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From Almo, Kentucky, USA:
We are concerned about the supply of insulin in the United States in the event of a global war. Where is insulin actually manufactured? If the bulk of insulin is manufactured overseas and the transportation lines are disrupted due to war, is there a plan for ensuring that American diabetics get the insulin they need?
Insulin is manufactured in several countries, including the U.S. where it is made by Eli Lilly and Company in Indianapolis, Indiana.
See also the following polls:
- In light of growing world tensions, are you stockpiling additional diabetes supplies? from March 2003
- In light of growing world tensions and concerns about the bird flu, are you stockpiling additional diabetes supplies? from March 2006
Additional comments from Dr. David Schwartz:Although I have not seen this first hand in a while, many years ago while touring Eli Lilly, we were told (and shown) about stockpiled insulin. While it has been a long time, I recall the vault being huge. Nevertheless, Eli Lilly does not make all the different types of insulin. For instance, they do not make Lantus or Levemir or other similar basal insulin. Lilly brand products typically have the 'Hum' prefix: Humulin N, Humulin R, Humalog, and similar.
Original posting 18 Sep 2006
Posted to Insulin and Other
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John had a skin thing recently, involving multiple trips to the doctor. John rarely goes to the doctor, but when he does, I always learn something. Like, how to respectfully disagree. Or how to . . . seem like you're respectfully disagreeing? Here:
J: You know that word "notwithstanding," and how you taught me that it actually kind of means the opposite?
M: Yup. It means "withstanding."
J: Yeah. So I was thinking about how the phrase "with all due respect" is kind of like that.
M: As in?
J: As in, when the dermatologist told me it was eczema, I said, "With all due respect, I'm going to continue treating it as a fungus."
M: And you didn't mean it?
J: No. I mean, in that moment, I didn't respect him.
M: Because he was wrong.
J: Yeah, basically.
M: With all due respect.
J: With all due respect.
M: Which is, like, none.
J: No respect is due!
M: Because you, Herr Doctor, are wrong!
J: Pretty much!
M: God. That is genius.
J: [Smiles.]
M: I'm loving you so hard right now.

subset: commoncrawl


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We call SOAKOLOGY® foot sanctuary and teahouse "an extraordinary experience for an ordinary day."® One visit and you'll know what we mean.
Feel the stress disappear in a spa like no other. Our foot sanctuary spa is a communal environment frequented by both men and women, alone or with friends. We go literally to the ends of the Earth to find the finest herbs, florals and essential oils for our foot soaks and treatments. Is there a better antidote to everyday life than massage? We think not and recommend that you add one to your foot soak. Let one of our gifted licensed massage therapists work magic on tight muscles and tender joints.
Click here to download a PDF of our Spa Menu


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not you?
Your account
12 September 2017 – The majority (67%) of UK drivers do not want to buy electric and hybrid vehicles, despite the government's pledge to ban the sale of new diesel and petrol cars by 2040. Research by comparethemarket.com finds that two thirds of UK motorists would opt for a petrol or diesel car over an environmental alternative, and only 6% of drivers would choose a purely electric model for their next car.
The cost of electric and hybrid vehicles is a major deterrent to nearly half of UK drivers, with 49% saying they could not afford to go green – equating to around 18 million* motorists nationwide. Of these, many (41%) said they simply don't have the money to buy an electric car and nearly one in ten (8%) are worried that the insurance costs are too high. Their concerns are not unfounded as recent comparethemarket.com analysis found that drivers choosing electric cars are paying 45% more to insure their vehicle than the average motorist – the average premium for an electric vehicle stands at £1,070 for an electric vehicle, against £740 for the average car.
Drivers are also nervous that the UK does not have the necessary infrastructure to support the growth of electric vehicles, as nearly two thirds (65%) revealed that they did not want an electric car because they were concerned about where to charge it. There are currently 4,811* charging stations around the UK but the number of electric cars on the roads predicted to rise, with global sales of battery powered vehicles jumping by 60% last year***. Questions therefore remain as to whether this digital network can expand as fast as required.
The research also suggests that older generations have more positive attitudes to green vehicles than younger drivers. Over a third (38%) of over 55-year olds would like their next car to be an electric or hybrid model, compared to under a quarter (24%) of 18-24-year olds. Drivers of all ages may also be put off by the upfront cost of buying an electric car; the average cost of a Nissan Leaf can be around £21,000 but 18-24-year-old motorists say they can only afford to spend £6,500 on their next car, and over 55-year olds plan to spend over £10,000.
John Miles
Head of Motor
"Despite the government's plan for all cars to go green by 2020, motorists still have significant and legitimate concerns about electric cars. Our research suggests that only 6% of drivers would choose an electric model for their next vehicle and are far more comfortable with traditional fuel models. Nobody wants to run out of power half way through a journey and find themselves miles from a charging point. Whilst the number of charging points across the UK is growing day by day, there are still fears that the UK does not have the sufficient infrastructure to cope with this rapidly growing market.
"For electric cars to really take off, steps must be taken to improve and expand the infrastructure on which they rely and reduce the upfront cost. Whilst the ongoing running cost of an electric car might be lower due to savings on fuel, we are not yet at the point of critical mass where manufacture, repair, insurance and distribution costs fall significantly. This means that joining green revolution remains merely an "electric dream" for the majority of British motorists."


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My steering wheel isnt locking to the point my key switch is not turing. My kids while it waz parkd truck off they shift the gears & as I got bac in my keys wont turn
My car has an automatic transmission.
It sounds like your kids may have broke the ignition lock assembly in the steering column. There are a few different column components that may have been broken. The parts are made out of pretty soft metal by the manufacturer so a thief cannot steal the vehicle. Something was broken and an ignition inspection should be done to see what repairs are necessary.
Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


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Over 14,000 music lovers are expected to descend on Falkirk this weekend for Rock the Stadium.
Madness will kick off at Falkirk Stadium tomorrow (Friday) followed by Jess Glynne the following evening.
Both shows are being promoted by LCC Live – who have been in town all week getting the stage set for the artists.
Those attending are being asked to follow the safety information from the promoters, as well as be aware of security checks.
Carlie Davidson of LCC Live, said: "With Madness and Jess Glynne's shows just days away, we're keen to ensure that all concert-goers have a fun evening in a safe environment.
"We're working closely with our agency partners on safety and would ask that the thousands of fans attending each concert takes time to read the safety advice and take the necessary actions. Please also allow plenty of time for security checks as these will be in force on arrival at the venue."
People are reminded: no bags bigger than A4 size will be allowed in and these are subject to search; no queueing before 5pm; no folding chairs in the arena; Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult over 18.
Gates open for Madness at 6pm, support act The Farm perform from 7.15pm with Madness on stage at 8.45pm.
For Jess Glynne's show gates open at 5pm, Kiko Bun is on stage from 6.35pm, Mullally from 7.55pm and Jess Glynne from 8.45pm.
A drop off and pick up facility is available at Falkirk College and car parking with limited on-site parking.
A small number of tickets are available for both shows and can be bought from Ticketline (www.ticketline.co.uk; 0844 888 9991); Falkirk Football Stadium Ticket Office, or from the Box Office at the main entrance, which opens at 5pm ahead of both shows.


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Event detail
Why Autonomy is Hard
Seminar | November 13 | 4-5 p.m. | Soda Hall, HP Auditorium, 306
Dr. Brandon Basso, Director of Autonomy at Uber Advanced Technologies Group (ATG), UBER
Department of Mechanical Engineering (ME)
Dr Brandon Basso is a former UC Berkeley graduate from the ME department and the Director of Autonomy at Uber Advanced Technologies Group (ATG). In this talk he will give an overview of the autonomous car program at UBER and focus on the challenges associated to delivering safe autonomous cars.
Brandon Basso is a Director of Autonomy at Uber Advanced Technologies Group (ATG). He leads autonomous vehicle capabilities development across perception, motion planning, and control software engineering groups. He previously led software engineering on ATGs autonomous trucking project. In addition to developing new vehicle capabilities, Brandon focuses on software safety and testing across the entire onboard and offboard stack. Brandons previous experience is in aviation and aerospace. He was the VP of Engineering at 3D Robotics and led the development of several successful consumer and commercial drone projects. He additionally worked at Honeybee robotics where he was a member of the Mars Exploration Rover engineering team, designing and operating tooling still in use today on several Mars missions, including Spirit, Opportunity, Curiosity, and Phoenix. Brandon received his bachelor's degree from Columbia University and PhD from University of California, Berkeley, both in mechanical engineering. While at Berkeley, Brandon studied control theory and was a member of the Centre for Collaborative Control of Unmanned Vehicles (C3UV) under Karl Hedrick. His research focused on autonomous decision making among teams of robotic aircraft.
email@example.com, 510-642-9551


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The leaders of Greater Cleveland Congregations are people who want to transform our world—from what it is to what it could be.
GCC Strategy Team:
Pastor Richard Gibson, Elizabeth Baptish Church: Co-Chair
Rabbi Robert Nosanchuk, Anshe Chesed Fairmount Temple: Co-chair
Rabbi Joshua Caruso, Anshe Chesed Fairmount Temple
Rev. Joe Cherry, Unitarian Universalist Society of Cleveland
Rev. Jawanza Colvin, Olivet Institutional Baptist Church
Rev. Dr. Yvonne Conner, Trinity Episcopal Cathedral
Ms. Jacquie Gillon, Elizabeth Baptist Church
Rev. Rich Israel, St. Paul's Episcopal Church
Pastor John Lentz, Forest Hill Church
Marcia Levine, Anshe Chesed Fairmount Temple
Rev. Ronald Maxwell, Affinity Missionary Baptist Church
Dr. Louise McKinney, St. John AME Church
Rev. Linda Robinson, St. James AME Church
Donna Weinberger, Kol HaLev
Rabbi Stephen Weiss, B'nai Jeshurun Congregation
Diana Woodbridge, Forest Hill Presbyterian Church


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LOCATION: THE INNOVATION SALON, featuring over 50 artists and innovators all day long. We are getting this party started with TechVibe Radio as we unveil the Innovation Salon and talk to the Creatives that are highlighting the day! Join TechVibe Radio hosts Audrey Russo and Jonathan Kersting, with food, fun, art, tech and music -- as we roll out the big day!
NOON KICK OFF: Listen for the Drums! Roots to Rhythm will kick off the party at high noon! Grab a drum or percussion instrument provided, and discover your own inner rhythm and connect with each other in community, co-creating an amazing, unified experience. If your heart is beating, you can drum!
ROBOT WELCOME: Say 'hello' to the Choitek Megamark, a 3 ft tall, advanced educational technology robot capable of performing a variety of human-size tasks, such as watering plants, feeding pets, playing piano and more!
ART JAM: Kait Shoeb hosts a 5 hour painting jam starting at noon, in honor of the spirit of creativity. Stop by and make your mark on the giant 8' painting immortalizing CREATE 2017 in art history forever!
DJ Thermos keeps the party going through 1pm, when IDEAfest kicks off in the August Wilson Theater.


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Apply for a buy to let mortgage NOW before stress tests and income cover ratios get tougher.
This means that for landlords borrowing in a personal capacity, very soon you will not be able to borrow as much against a property as you can right now.
As we have reported previously, some lenders have already changed their rent to interest cover calculations because from 1st January 2017 they must comply with new underwriting guidelines (as set out by the Prudential Regulation Authority) which insist that lenders conduct tougher affordability checks to ensure that personal borrowers can repay their mortgages should interest rates rise to 5.5%.
The new rules are being introduced to ensure that lenders factor in the changes to income tax relief which is being imposed on landlords from 2017.
Lenders which have announced changes include TSB, The Mortgage Works, Paragon Mortgages, Mortgage Trust, Kent Reliance, Fleet Mortgages, Precise, Coventry Godiva, Virgin Money and our own lending brand Keystone Property Finance.
NEED BUY TO LET FINANCE? What should you do if you want:
A buy to let mortgage for a purchase in your personal name
Please do get in touch with us ASAP so that we can get you an Agreement in Principle (AIPs) and/or submit a mortgage application before the end of this week. If you leave it any later, you will be affected by the changes.
To raise capital by remortgaging your rental property
The underwriting changes will affect you, so do get in touch before the end of this week if you want to take advantage of current, lower RTI calculations.
To remortgage on a like-for-like basis
If you don't want to raise capital but simply want to remortgage onto a better rate to save money, you are less likely to be affected by the pending changes as the PRA does not want to create mortgage prisoners. However, to talk through the options do get in touch.
A limited company buy to let mortgage
The changes to affordability calculations do not affect landlords borrowing in a limited company capacity because they will not be affected by the changes income tax relief (limited companies are subject to corporation tax).
For more information, below you will find a variety of links to articles which explain the new rules and the tax changes. I've also included a link to a case study demonstrating how much more you could borrow now than when all buy to let lenders have switched to the affordability calculations on 1 January 2017.
As always, do get in touch to discuss your property finance requirements. Buy to let mortgages, commercial mortgages, development finance, short-term finance and residential mortgages... we can help.
Paul Martins has left Mortgages for Business for pastures new. For more information or for any questions relating to this blog, please contact the BTL Team on 0345 345 6788, where one of our consultant mortgage brokers will be happy to assist.
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You may also be interested in:
CASE STUDY: Landlord borrows £246k more than he will be to from 1 January 2017
More lenders change their rental cover requirements
Mainstream lender, Santander, announced that it is moving its rental coverage requirements upwards in response to forthcoming affordability assessment changes required by the Prudential Regulation Authority.
How the restriction of relief on BTL mortgage interest will affect landlords
Simon Whittaker, Finance Director analyses and examples of how the restriction of relief on buy to let mortgage interest will affect landlords.
Top 10 Best Buy to Let Mortgages
Jeni Browne, Head of Sales hand-picks her favourite rates taking into account the differing needs of landlords and property investors
How the new buy to let underwriting standards will affect lenders and borrowers
Steve gives his views on what the implications of tougher interest cover ratios and increased background checks will mean for landlords and buy to let lenders.


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I'm cheating again with a double post. This pretty photo runs in the May 2012 issue of House & Home and it just happens to be the back stairs at the Tweed House. The rope hand rail that my Dad and I installed about 6 years ago was a perfect jumping off point for a lovely story produced by Joel Bray and photographed by Angus Fergusson. You can find my step-by-step instructions for the rope rail on the House & Home blog. Meanwhile, here are a few other favourite rope rail images I love.
photo credits: 1. Angus Fergusson via House & Home. 2. from the book Sailing Style by Tricia Foley, photo by Michael Skott. 3. Thom Filicia Soho Mews project. 4. stairropes.com 5. this image is a great web mystery. Nobody seems to be able to find the original source. I saw it on the City Sage blog. 6. Les Indiennes wallpaper by IVM Prints.


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Playa del Carmen's most-trusted dive operator, Vida Aquatica – located at Mahekal Beach Resort – has been recognized for the second year in a row as Mexico's Diving Company of the Year for the 2017 Luxury Travel Guide Awards.
"We are incredibly proud to be recognized once again as the top dive center not only in Playa del Carmen, but in Mexico," said Barbara Blair, Manager of Vida Aquatica Dive Center. "This is a validating homage to our entire staff that strives to make superior guest services their highest priority and further enforces Vida Aquatica and Mahekal's commitment to delivering extraordinary, enriching experiences within our natural, inspiring destination."
Representing the pinnacle of hospitality achievement, the Luxury Travel Guide Awards champion the best in the travel and tourism industry. More than two million subscribers, hotel guests, travel agents and industry experts nominate deserving candidates, and each winner undergoes rigorous assessment by a panel of industry professionals.
One of the oldest operating dive centers in Playa del Carmen, Vida Aquatica provides divers of all experience levels with memorable underwater encounters – from exploring stunning coral reefs and vast cenotes, to dive training and certification courses in the large, resort-sized swimming pool. With knowledgeable, attentive instructors, among the first to explore and name many of the area's beautiful reefs, Vida Aquatica focuses on safety and fun, as well as protecting the region's valuable marine environment. In addition to diving and snorkeling excursions, the dive center also offers fishing tours throughout the Riviera Maya, as well as paddle board, kayak and snorkeling equipment rentals.


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Linda Bedore
Linda Bedore was born on December 4th, 1930, and named after her grandfather, Joseph. From very early on, Linda knew that she was different from the boys around her, but was fearful that if she told anyone, she would be outcast.
At 19, Linda joined the Navy and was married soon after. Her first marriage produced 6 children but was spent hiding her true self from her family. Her second marriage, and subsequent divorce, gave Linda more chance to find herself.
At age 73, Linda made the choice to transition. Now she travels extensively, enjoys country dancing, and always brings along her harmonica. Linda's packed a lot of life into the past 4 years, and she's ready for more!
Linda traveled with the Tranny Roadshow during their Rocky Mountain Tour in 08′ and didn't skip a beat as she danced circles around everyone at the Country bar in Denver.


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Myself = incredibly blessed by my family .
All parts of it .
The part that lives here with me : my boy + my pup .
My favorite family of three I know .
My mother's side of the family .
My father's side of the family .
My boy's family .
The friends we have that feel more like family than just friends .
The friends we have that feel more like family than just friends .
Every person in them has played a sweet part in my life + I can truly say that I notice more + more each day the little ways that I am J U S T | L I K E some of the individuals in my fam .
And for that , too , I'm thankful .
I have a family that knows how to be a family .
We know how to love one another + get along + give what it takes to make it work .
We want to spend time together . And we make time to spend together .
Even if we live thousands of miles apart .
And that may be a rare thing in this day + age . But it is real in my life .
Lucky me . Again .


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Welcome to day 17 in my #Write31Days challenge on mental health. Today, I'm continuing to write about personality disorders in cluster C. I'll focus on dependent personality disorder (DPD). When I was about eighteen, I suspected I might have some features of this condition. (Then again, I suspected I was diagnosable with about half the DSM at the time.) I still relate to it, but it's never been suggested that I have DPD.
Dependent personality disorder is characterized by a pervasive and excessive need to be taken care of. This leads to submissive and clingy behavior and fear of separation. People with DPD meet at least five of the following criteria:
- Has difficulty making everyday decisions without an excessive amount of advice and reassurance from others.
- Needs others to assume responsibility for most major areas of his or her life.
- Has difficulty expressing disagreement with others because of fear of loss of support or approval. Note: Do not include realistic fears of retribution.
- Has difficulty initiating projects or doing things on his or her own (because of a lack of self-confidence in judgment or abilities rather than a lack of motivation or energy).
- Goes to excessive lengths to obtain nurturance and support from others, to the point of volunteering to do things that are unpleasant.
- Feels uncomfortable or helpless when alone because of exaggerated fears of being unable to care for himself or herself.
- Urgently seeks another relationship as a source of care and support when a close relationship ends.
- Is unrealistically preoccupied with fears of being left to take care of himself or herself.
DPD shows overlap with borderline personality disorder in the fear of abandonment. It also shows overlap with avoidant personality disorder in the sufferer's anxious and self-critical tendencies. However, people with DPD doubt their ability to do things on their own, whereas people with AvPD doubt their ability to succeed in social situations.
One of the characteristics of dependent personality disorder is urgently seeking another relationship when one ends. Another is volunteering to do unpleasant things in order to stay in a relationship in which one is taken care of. The combination of these traits may lead DPD sufferers into codependent relationships with abusers or addicts. However, the dynamic of codependency may also produce behaviors similar to DPD in people who are otherwise healthy.


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64oz. Custom Growler Carrier ready to be packed up and shipped. Order yours today before the sunny days of summer are over.
New Wildcard Sign for Jackalope Display
Flight Carriers
Finishing up an order of flight carriers. Burnt maple.
Check out our Shoppe on Scoutmob!
We are excited to announce that we are now on Scoutmob! Take a look at the wonderful job the team at Scoutmob did at setting up our shoppe - and as always - don't hesitate to contact us for any type of questions or large order inquiries.
Click Here to view our Shoppe
Porter Flea Holiday 2013
Come and join us at Porter Flea this year. We've been working hard to bring you some great products - all hand made. See the flier and progress photos below!


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One highly condensed vignette from Fishman's NY Mag narrative is crafted to sound like a matter-of-fact account of the Ezra-Victor relationship that began 21 years ago. We read it as a flawed crime narrative. In this unsatisfying story, there is no heroic detective, no crime busting sheriff. The bad guys are not caught by forces of good.
Maybe Fishman's characterization is right and Madoff really is the arch criminal, the Joker of Wall Street. I'm just too uncomfortable granting him the stature of such mythic evil. And as I said, there's no Batman and Robin to the rescue in this story.
I prefer it if they'd knock Madoff and his cronies down to where they belong. Perhaps these guys should be portrayed as terrorist maniacs whose religion is cosmic greed.
Madoff and Merkin and Teicher – suicide bombers.
Madoff admits his evil – end of story for him. Merkin plays innocent – he reads and believes his own press releases. Teicher protests his new-found honesty and demands to be treated as a rehabilitated soul.
Main point: These "money managers" were brought down by their own misdeeds. They self destructed – blew themselves up – and they had to know that they would. You may say no, these are not terrorists. How can you make such a comparison?
I could say look around at the bodies lying all over the landscape. In their chosen and inevitable self-immolation these terrorists of greed took with them, in the resulting devastation and shrapnel, hordes of nearby innocent victims.
Anyway here is how Fishman narrates this chapter, the Ezra-Victor relationship.
…the first of Ezra's finds was Victor Teicher. Teicher, a colorful, uncontrollable character with a faulty internal censor, was not the confidence-instilling type to put in front of prospective investors. But he had an instinctive gift for financial opportunity. Early on, he concentrated on merger arbitrage, betting on whether one firm would take over another. In this, he had some help. In 1986, he was investigated for insider trading in connection with what was known as the Yuppie Five case, in which young professionals at blue-chip firms passed along inside information about upcoming mergers.Source: New York Magazine, "The Monster Mensch. What made Bernie Madoff, a man who helped revolutionize Wall Street and built a completely legal billion-dollar business, perpetrate the greatest fraud in history? And what led Ezra Merkin, born to immense privilege, to enable him?" by Steve Fishman, published Feb 22, 2009.
The indictment might have put Teicher out of business, but he had been earning returns as high as 20 percent a year, and so most of his investors stayed. Merkin too was enticed by the returns, and beginning in 1988, the year Teicher was indicted, he started putting a substantial portion of the money he raised for Gabriel Capital with Teicher. Ezra kept 20 percent of the profits for his troubles, and gave Teicher half. Since Ezra was technically raising money for Gabriel and its offshore twin, Ariel, he didn't need to cloud the waters by mentioning Teicher's controversial name, a lapse that New York University alleges in a lawsuit. In 1992, the year Teicher was sentenced to eighteen months in prison, he was running about $500 million, perhaps three-quarters of that from Ezra's investors.
Teicher spent most of 1994 in prison. When he got out expecting to return to work, Ezra decided to separate. The business was running well without Teicher's day-to-day oversight. And, Ezra told Teicher, his lawyers thought working with a convicted felon wasn't a great idea. Ezra threatened to yank his money. So Teicher gave in. In January 1995, Ezra took over the staff, put Gabriel Capital's name on the door, and hired Nathan Leight, now at Terrapin Partners, to manage the money.
Teicher operated on his own until August 1998, when Ezra called again. It was a troubled year for the markets, and he needed help. Teicher, then running about $50 million, jumped at the chance and was soon managing roughly $1 billion for Ezra as an independent operator. It was a profitable arrangement for both—Teicher turned the fund around, and he might have continued except that in January 2000, with his appeals exhausted, the SEC finally banned Teicher from running other people's money. Ezra replaced Teicher. But by then, Ezra was also showering money on another genius: Bernie Madoff.
… For Ezra, Madoff's returns weren't eye-popping—Teicher did better—though his average of more than 12 percent a year was more than respectable. But the real selling point was Bernie's consistency—barely a down month in more than a decade.
There were many for whom Madoff's consistency was a giant red flag. The SEC missed it, but Teicher, the inside trader, was a skeptic. Ezra and Teicher talked about Madoff on and off for years. Teicher scoffed. "The thing seemed ridiculous," Teicher told Ezra. But then, Ezra must have thought, Teicher generally didn't like anyone's ideas but his own.


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Get DVD Talk Feeds
Avatar the Last Airbender is easily one of the best shows on television. The animated Nickelodeon program combines kung-fu, Eastern mythology, and good old-fashioned children's story adventure for an all-ages quest that is as engrossing and smartly written as any of the more buzzed about live-action serials currently on the air.
Set in a world that is neither past nor future, a mythical land that resembles our own, Avatar picks up the story a century into the rule of the Fire Nation. In this fantasy, humans are divided into four tribes based on the elements: earth, air, water, and fire. Very special humans are "benders," individuals who can control these elements and bend them to their will using a kind of internal force. The Avatar is a being who comes along in each generation and can control all four elements, and he or she is meant to unite the various tribes. In a case of natural selection creating a system of checks and balances, each new Avatar must come from a different tribe, rotating equally so that no one set of people has power any longer than the other. Just as the Fire Nation was making its bid for world domination, the Avatar of their people passed away, triggering the Avatar from the Air Nation. A 12-year-old boy, Aang was accidentally frozen in the ocean, taking the Avatar power out of play and allowing the bad guys to rule.
The series began with Aang being found by some kids from the water tribe, and so far it has concerned itself with Aang's simultaneous paths of learning to use his powers while also beginning an early campaign to end the tyranny of the Fire Nation. Designed as a trilogy of seasons--or as they are called, "Books"--the creators of the show are creating a full story with a beginning, middle, and end. We are now in Book 3: Fire. The rebel armies are waiting for a solar eclipse to launch their largest attack. Since Fire people draw their energy from the sun, this blackout will leave them weak and vulnerable. Most of Book 3 so far has been about Aang and his crew--Earthbender Toph, Waterbender Katara, and comedic sidekick Sokka--traveling toward the battle site while Aang still works on his skills, and the people, adventures, and lessons they encounter along the way. Currently, everyone believes Aang is dead, a secret the kids are working hard to keep. Only Zuko knows the truth outside of their circle, and he has sent a deadly assassin after Aang to make the lie a reality.
Nickelodeon releases a new Avatar the Last Airbender DVD every five episodes or so, after the shows air on cable. Thus, Book 3: Fire, Vol. 2 is the second collection from the third season, and it contains episodes 6 through 10.
* Chapter 6: The Avatar and the Firelord: An episode expanding on the back story of the conflict, this is a parallel narrative where both Aang and his rival, Zuko, the conflicted crown prince of the Fire Nation, explore the history that defines them--Aang through the visions shown by the visiting spirit of the previous Avatar Roku and Zuko through the secret journal of his great grandfather, Firelord Sozin. Best friends as children, Roku and Sozin were at odds as adults, and it was Sozin who started the great war. It's an excellently told mythology episode, with lots of heavy moments and new information, as well as an awesome battle with dragons over a fiery volcano.
* Chapter 7: The Runaway: On a stop at a Fire Nation city, the blind Toph reveals that she can beat a shell game with the same sensory skills that get her through life without sight. She, Aang, and Sokka get caught up in the thrill of gambling, despite Katara's warnings that they will attract too much attention. This turns out to be true, with Zuko's deadly emissary showing up just in time to engage them in a ferocious battle. Amidst this, the kids also learn a little more about their individual functions within the unit.
* Chapter 8: The Puppetmaster: A chance encounter with an exiled Waterbender from Sokka and Katara's tribe momentarily restores Katara's connections to her roots. This woman, Hama, teaches her some new bending techniques, but Sokka can't shake the suspicion that something is wrong and Hama is maybe connected to the mysterious disappearances that have been happening on nights of the full moon and that the locals blame on the "Moon Man."
* Chapter 9: Nightmares and Daydreams: Four days ahead of the eclipse, Aang and company arrive at the rendezvous point. While waiting, Aang is plagued with nightmares, both humorous and horrifying, about the forthcoming fight. To conquer these visions is to conquer his doubts. The dream sequences are fun and creative, with lots of excellent designs and storyboards.
* Chapter 10: The Day of Black Sun, Part 1: The Invasion: Yikes, these guys love long, complicated titles! The ragtag fleet of rebels, led by Katara and Sokka's father, arrive at the checkpoint and preparations are made for the infiltration of the Fire Nation Palace so that Aang can take on the Firelord. The troops are made up of a lot of the more colorful characters we've met over the first two seasons, bringing them back for another go-around. I think it's cool in this episode how a lot of the war machine technology is based on nature and powered by bending abilities rather than on sudden advances in machinery. The start of the invasion has a lot of great action, and the episode ends on a major cliffhanger.
In addition to the solid writing, Avatar the Last Airbender also has amazing animation. The character designs, with its roots in classic Asian folklore, are colorful and inventive, and the overall animation is smooth and consistently executed. The work here is several steps ahead of the limited animation of most Saturday morning and syndicated shows, with a small touch of anime style to make it contemporary. Even the digital effects used for the battle vehicles is more integrated than it has been in earlier seasons. It's still obvious, but not as jarring
Read reviews of The Complete Book 1 and The Complete Book 2.
Made for television, Avatar the Last Airbender is animated at a full screen aspect ratio. As should be the case with contemporary TV animation being transferred to DVD, the picture quality is top of the line. There is no compression, no loss of color, the Avatar discs always look fantastic.
Episodes can be played all at once, or chosen one at a time.
Only one English soundtrack is available, a fairly effects-heavy and well-balanced Dolby Digital stereo track.
Two paper inserts come with Book 3: Fire, Vol. 2: a single-sheet giving an episode guide on one side and advertising other Avatar DVDs on the other, and a six-page color comic book exclusive to the DVD releases. The comic in this installment is the second of four parts, so the story will be complete when you have all four of the Book 3 discs. They may be a limited special feature, however, because I purchased my own copy of Book 3: Fire, Vol. 1 so I could catch up before I covered this disc, and I did not receive part 1 of the comic. Bummer.
Episodes 6 and 10 both have commentaries featuring show creators Michael DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko, composer Jerry Zuckerman, and sound editor Benjamin Wynn. The commentaries can be accessed either through the special features menu, or you are prompted to choose them if you watch the episodes individually. These are informative, jovial tracks, with the creative partners and friends all talking about what goes into the show. Warning, though, there are very minor spoilers in the chapter 10 commentary about where some characters are going in the next volume. Come on, guys, think ahead! Not everyone is watching this on TV before watching it on DVD.
Two Nickelodeon trailers play as the DVD loads, but each can be skipped by hitting your "next" button.
Highly Recommended. Avatar the Last Airbender - Book 3: Fire, Vol. 2 is yet another amazing collection of one of television's most outstanding shows. An all-ages animated adventure, Avatar chronicles the quest of young Aang, a mystical master of the four elements, to end the tyrannical reign of the Fire Nation over the world. Mixing kung-fu adventure with mythological fantasy, this is smartly crafted entertainment that is funny, dramatic, and exciting. This second installment from the in-progress final season advances both the overall story and the characters, and it looks fabulous all the way through.
Jamie S. Rich is a novelist and comic book writer. He is best known for his collaborations with Joelle Jones, including the hardboiled crime comic book You Have Killed Me, the challenging romance 12 Reasons Why I Love Her, and the 2007 prose novel Have You Seen the Horizon Lately?, for which Jones did the cover. All three were published by Oni Press. His most recent projects include the futuristic romance A Boy and a Girl with Natalie Nourigat; Archer Coe and the Thousand Natural Shocks, a loopy crime tale drawn by Dan Christensen; and the horror miniseries Madame Frankenstein, a collaboration with Megan Levens. Follow Rich's blog at Confessions123.com.


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Clarets boss Sean Dyche admits he could "taste it in the air" that Dwight McNeil was ready for first team action.
The 19-year-old has started the last six games, and last week signed a new contract until the summer of 2023.
He returns to Old Trafford to face Manchester United – who released him as a 14-year-old – tonight, with praise ringing in his ears from Dyche, after his display in Saturday's FA Cup defeat at Manchester City.
And Dyche isn't surprised by how he has adapted to regular first team football: "The only thing that's surprised me, there isn't that magic moment where you know for a fact they're going to do it, but there are players who you just smell it on, like him, where I thought 'you're ready', and I'm beginning to taste it in the air when I'm around him.
"I've been around enough footballers to have an instinct when they've got a feeling about it, to be ready.
"Your staff are very important, 'are you seeing what I'm seeing?' But it's my decision, and that was to put him in at that time, and he's done nicely.
"There's still a long way to go, but he's made a very strong start."
Burnley acted quickly to extend his contract, and Dyche feels it was very much deserved: "I think he's earned it, he's done very well.
"When I felt it was appropriate, I put him in.
"I think the hardest question is, in hindsight, when people say 'why didn't you put him in earlier?'
"But if I'd put him in and he didn't do well, you know what they would have said, 'what did you put him in for?'
"That's just the way it is."


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Contest! Contest! Picture Contest!/
Post a picture of our cans purchased in California. If your photo receives the most likes and shares, we will send you a gift package.
The Rules-
- You must have a backdrop that lets us know you are in CA. Famous scenery, sign, etc.
- Please share the location where you found our beer.
- We are doing this on Twitter and Facebook. The same person can't win both contests. That being said, multiple entries are welcome.
- Make sure to tag the post/photo with Ground Breaker Brewing and Artisan Distributing.
- Contest ends Sunday 11/08 at midnight. The winner will be announced Monday 11/09.
The winner will receive a shirt, socks, koozie, sticker, glass, and coaster.


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Palestine has quit men's volleyball event of the Doha Asiad due to traveling difficulties, the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) announced in Doha on Sunday.
The Palestine delegation just informed that there is no chance for its volleyball team to participate in the games as the border in Gaza Strip is still closed and no athletes or team officials can get out of Gaza, said Yim Hyung Bin, AVC's vice president in a press release.
It is not clear if other Palestine athletes can make their trips to Doha and their situation will be assessed on a day-by-day basis, said Yim.
Palestine is previously scheduled to play Hong Kong, China on Sunday and its withdrawal has given a toilless victory to the latter, which has thus guaranteed to enter round 2.
Indonesia and Turkmenistan had also quit the men's volleyball tournament before the event opened on Sunday.
Now, 16 teams will compete for the champion of the men's volleyball event. Host Qatar has directly entered the last eight with five world championship participants, namely China, Japan, South Korea, Iran and Kazakhstan.
However, another 10 teams, including Hong Kong, Macao and Chinese Taipei, have to compete for two other seats for the quarterfinals. All 45 matches of men's volleyball will be staged at the Al-Rayyan Indoor Hall in northwest suburb of Doha.
Source: Xinhua


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Save the Date
The first step is to think about the venue, where you are having the party will have a big influence on your guests, how many you will invite and what sort of party it will be, you may choose a house party, beach party, your favourite restaurant or the local town hall..?! Once you know where you will be holding your party you can firstly set the date - you are likely to have this in mind before you choose the venue so that you can make sure that you get the right time etc.
Once you have it all booked then start picking a theme; this will help you to come up with the ideas for your invitations, decorations entertainment and more. Party Invitations! Make sure that you set a budget for your party before you send out the invites that way you will know what to tell your guests, e.g BYO drinks or Food and Drink Provided.
Birthday Party Invitations
Once you have tackled the theme you can then concentrate who you will invite, arrange to have your invitations sent out and await the RSVP's from those would love to help you celebrate!
Choosing your Party Theme
The hardest part will be to pick the theme, there are so many fantastic ideas out there and your choice will of course depend on your personality, who you are inviting and what sort of party vibe you are after. There are some pretty cool themed ideas to help you plan a memorable party that your guests are sure to enjoy.
Why not choose a 'Year Theme' that means something to you - party ideas from the 1920s to the 1980s...
1920s Party Theme
Also known as the Roaring Twenties or the Jazz Age! The 20s saw an art deco style that represented elegance, glamour, functionality and modernity.
1940s Party Theme
With World War II taking place in the first half of the decade and lingering well into the late 40s, why not base your party on a wartime theme; hang up your bunting, wartime posters and pictures of spitfires and camouflage!
1950s Party Theme
Rock and Roll dominated the popular music scene in the late 1950s. It saw artists like Chuck Berry, Little Richie and Elvis taking to the stage! So think American Diner and select your music carefully and 'rock around the clock' at your 50s theme party.
1960s Party Theme
The Swinging 60s - think Summer of Love, Woodstock and Psychedelic influences! Peace, Love and the rise of the 'Hippie' culture make this a very colourful theme for a birthday party.
1970s Disco Party
Create your own Disco - Boogie Nights experience with a 70s theme party! Think John Travolta, bright lights and disco balls!!
1980s Party Theme
Think Marty McFly - Back to the Future or Madonna and Boy George! Whatever you plan for your 80s style party you can be sure that there are some pretty cool ideas for your party decorations, gifts and favours.
Other Party Themes
You could also consider a theme from the following list:
Back to School, Black and White, Caribbean or Hawaiian, Masked Ball or Mardi Gras, Tarts and Vicars, Hollywood, Murder Mystery, Beach Theme, Wild West or Winter Wonderland.
Party in Your Country
Why not choose a party theme based on your nationality or the country that you live in, you can choose nationality themed decorations and cuisine - here are a few... Spanish, French, Irish, British, Australian ...
Australia Theme
There are so many styles and themes to consider but with whichever you choose the golden rule is to make sure that you simply enjoy yourself, whether it is a party for you a family member or friend, all of your planning efforts must be rewarded with a little bit of fun!


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I believe that books have the power to change the way we live.
As a college student, it's hard to find time to read for fun. Right now, I have close to a dozen things to read for one class (an upper level English class, but still). However, as a lover of words and a believer in change, I try to read as much as I can.
When it comes to book recommendations, word of mouth is a powerful tool. Some of the books on this list, books that have changed my life, I only know about because of a friend. So today, I'm going to be that friend for you. These books, these bundles of words and sentences that have been bound together to create beauty, are my "must reads". Most of them are nonfiction, one of them is fiction, but they've all shaken my world and pointed me to Jesus.
Let's talk about them.
Scary Close- Donald Miller
I read Scary Close last Spring and it hurt (in a good way). Don Miller is honest and vulnerable. He wrote a book encouraging his audience to learn from his mistakes. The subtitle of the books is, "Dropping the act and finding true intimacy." Rather than telling the readers how to drop the act, he shares his story. He tells us about the act he hid behind for over thirty years. And instead of pushing us to intimacy, he explains how he found it. He makes you want to be vulnerable, which isn't an easy thing to accomplish.
As believers, we are called to know and be known. But in our culture, we are conditioned to hide who we are. We're taught to live in shame-- and Scary Close challenges that. It encourages the freedom to be exactly who you are, because who you are is enough. It speaks truth to what love is and what it isn't. It challenges every reader to let others get scary close, because vulnerability doesn't have to be scary.
Loveology- John Mark Comer
"God. Love. Marriage. And the neverending story between male and female."
If I've learned anything, it's that young adult Christians love books about relationships. And that's great. I love that we search for answers and direction in such an important part of our lives. At our age, late high school and college, it's impossible to ignore that relationships are happening and it's impossible to ignore it if they aren't. (How many people you know got engaged last weekend?) In my opinion, a lot of Christian dating/marriage/relationships books miss it. They're based on good truth, but they can easily lead to legalistic thoughts and habits. Loveology doesn't.
If you're single, engaged, or even married, I promise that Loveology can teach you some things. John Mark Comer uses the Bible to speak truth to his readers and it can change the way you think. It's an easy read, one that you can breeze through while drinking coffee (or tea, if you're one of those people).
East of Eden- John Steinbeck
This book. This story. It's so good. If you're looking for a good novel to put on your summer reading list-- look no further.
East of Eden is an 800 page journey that leaves you with hope and points you to Jesus. I've read a lot of novels in my 21 years, but this is the only book that has ever made me put it aside and open my Bible. It's a heavy story with character development from the first page to the last, but it points you to Jesus. Seriously, friends, it's worth your time.
One Thousand Gifts- Ann Voskamp
When I read, "Give thanks in all circumstances." my brain immediately goes, "Except when..." And One Thousand Gifts shut that part of my brain up.
Ann Voskamp tells her story of learning to give thanks even when it's hard. She carries her readers through her journey in giving thanks for a thousand different, everyday things (including when her kids were mean to each other or when the sun fell through her kitchen window). In reading One Thousand Gifts, you are stripping yourself of the ability not to see beauty in every day.
Garden City- John Mark Comer
Honestly, I'm only halfway through this book. But it only took me 50 pages to realize that every (yes, every) 20-something year olds need to read it. Comer is a pastor in Portland, OR and he is an incredible writer (obviously, as he's the only person with more than one book on this list). This book is about "work, rest, and the art of being human" which are all things that 20-somethings struggle to understand. He poses questions that point readers to their calling and he uses scripture to encourage us in rest. The lessons that Garden City contains within its pages are lessons we all need to learn. I'm not kidding, absorbing these truths could make or break the rest of your life.
There you have it. Five books to read before your 25th birthday. An important thing to point out is that I'm not 25, but I thought that age would give non-readers some wiggle room to finish these books. Whether you love words or you can't remember the last time you finished a book, I still believe the truths that these books contain are for you.
Read one, read them all, and never forget the power that words have.
Happy reading, friends.
Ashton "I wish I were Mulan" Ray


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Macron won the final battle of the French presidential election which was in line with market expectations. He has become the youngest president in the French history.
Notably, Macron got 66.06% of the votes, largely surpassing his opponent Le Pen's 33.94% outperforming the 20% lead poll projections.
The voting ratio was 65.3%, which was lowest compared to the past three presidential elections; 71.96% in 2012, 75.11% in 2007 and 67.62% in 2002. Macron received a higher share of votes in big cities such as Paris and Marseille whilst Le Pen received a higher share of votes in the suburbs.
Le Pen's extreme stance and policies, such as anti-globalization, anti-immigrants, trade protectionism and making France leave the EU, will likely lead France's direction back toward conservativism and enclosure.
Conversely, Macron's policies aim to change the country's long-standing bureaucracy and excessive government control to revive the sluggish French economic performance. The outright victory of the independent centrist Macron indicates that French citizens aspire for change and variety.
Macron's victory has eased market concerns over France's leaving the EU and the collapse of the EU, pushing EUR and Europeans stocks further up.
During the early Asian session on Monday, EUR/USD hit a 6-month high of 1.1021. EUR/JPY hit a high of 124.49, last seen May 12 of 2016. Spot gold hit a low of 1220.77, last seen March 17. However, EUR and European stocks saw a retracement during the early European session due to profit taking pressure and the rebound of USD.
Macon now must face severe challenges such as high unemployment rate, low economic growth and immigration issue. In addition, as Macron is independent, he has little control of the parliament, which will likely be a hurdle after he taking office.


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In the context of preparations of my inaugural lecture, I have been interviewed for the University of Vienna's uni:view magazine. The full article can be read here.
I very much look forward to my inaugural lecture on May 10. It takes place at 5 pm on the Faculty's dies facultatis in the main building's Großer Festsaal.
(picture taken by Nana Thurner)


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Let's face it. As much as we love to hate reality television, it is not going anywhere. And there is not much we can do to make the quality of reality TV better–or is there? There IS something we can do my friends!! 🙂 Friend and supporter of She is Me and NAACP award winning actor Kaira Akita is on a mission to enrich our entertainment experience with her new production company Reality Revolution.
Reality Revolution is a media & social action company that creates entertaining, provocative, and inspiring reality TV and social action campaigns that put women, minorities, spirituality, and complex social issues in a fresh new light. RAISING ROSES, their first reality show in development, will transform the lives of teen bad girls and we will hold our first event(s) for teen girls in 2013. In Raising Roses, a super team of fabulous, self-made women join forces with a celebrity host to go toe-to-toe with teenage bad girls and transform them on all levels.
This project need OUR support..and when we GIVE we GET :).
Donate and Support: http://www.indiegogo.com/myrealityrevolution/x/549720
Join the discussion on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RealityRevolution
Submit a Comment


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A Deep, Cleansing Breath. With Menthol.September 19, 2013 at 10:54 PM | Posted in Journal | Leave a comment
They say that what doesn't kill you makes you stronger.
Maybe it does make you stronger, but it's really going to piss you off first.
I don't know where it came from or why it exists, but there is this…fairy tale, this adage, this meme that existed long before the word "meme" existed–about the starving, suffering artist. You know the one.
The guy who lives in squalor, he's poor, he's got relationship trouble or whatever–maybe he slices off an ear. His own or someone else's, it doesn't really matter.
What the hell is the reason?
Part of it, I know, is that many artists *feel* they need to be in turmoil. Most of that is just angst and bullshit, brought upon themselves by poor decision-making. You don't have to be smart to be an artist, and most of them aren't.
And because artists are susceptible to suggestion, by and large they buy into the cultural stereotype of how artists are perceived to be, and it becomes a circular self-fulfilling prophesy.
Unless you're too old and jaded to buy into it.
The starving artist thing–for one, do I look like I'm starving?
But it makes me wonder: did I, for all of these years, forsake pursuing the purity of my art in favor of a more comfortable life, i.e., a job, a career, a family, a house, and so forth?
Maybe I can chalk all of that up to "life experience" and research. Almost fifty years of it, man, and I've done a lot of things. Even as tepid and timid as I am, as fearful as I am of taking chances, I've had some wonderful, amazing, scary times in my life.
So what am I supposed to do with it now? Well, I guess I'm supposed to get off my ass and write. Or sit my ass down at the keyboard and write. If only someone would take dictation for me, transcribe everything, edit it, and then go ahead and get it published for me. Then direct-deposit the check.
So that's where I am now–I'm having more life experience. I'm beginning to live the dream of the starving artist.
And I use the term "artist" fairly loosely, and I don't think I actually mean it. I don't know-maybe I do. I don't know if you know any other artists, but I'll tell you something about the ones I do know, or the ones I do know *of*:
There is a fair amount of conceit going on in their brain.
Exhibit A, most of the ridiculous actors in Hollywoodland that is so pretentious and full of themselves they have to wear sunglasses to look in the mirror.
Exhibit B, anyone who creates something–writing, painting, performance art, or underarm farts–ultimately wants it to be seen and appreciated by an audience.
Hell, everyone wants a LIKE on their status updates. But this goes beyond that. This is *more.* Artists are vampires that feed on the accolades of people. They need to be loved and appreciated to survive.
Oh, good Lord. I think this is getting out of hand. First, some people are going to read this and think I mean me. And I do. Some people are going to read this and think I am painting all artists unfairly with this broad brush.
And I am, but not unfairly. If you have an artist as a friend or in the family, and you think they aren't like this, either you're delusional or they hide it well, or both.
And if you are an artist and claim not to be like this, they you are either completely delusional or you aren't really an artist.
But I don't mean any of this in a derogatory way. Mostly. Maybe you perceive the connotation to be thus, but I had to lay that groundwork to complete my thesis, such as it is. What's my point? Here's my point:
If you create a piece of…something, but no one ever sees it, is it art?
Much like a tree falling in the forest–it has to be seen and heard, or read, or somehow experienced.
Creating is what artists do. We take what we have–experience, ability, popsicle sticks–and turn them into something whose sole purpose is to be appreciated. To be looked at, listened to, felt, or however else the media is intended to be experienced. And I say "media" on purpose, because art is not just a form of expression, it is a form of communication.
And that's why I don't mean it in a derogatory fashion when I talk about the narcissistic nature of artists. It is the purest form of communication we know, the giving of ourselves. It's what we do, it's in our nature, and good or bad, we can't help it. We have something to say, something to share–something to show the world–
So here I am now, living the life of an artist. I'm too poor to go down to the coffee shop and sit and write–and I swear to God I can't get a cup of coffee from Starbucks that I can stand. Instead I sit up at night, or in the morning, or in the afternoon–whenever I have alone time–and I write.
Right now I'm in the tragically hip phase, where I am hyper-aware of my situation and how I am perceived, where I talk about writing and write about writing without actually creating anything. That's right–what you've just read is little more than nonsense, barely above typing practice, and if it is anything useful at all it serves as sort of a Zen clearing of the mind, a rinsing of the palette so that I can get on with the actual work of creating.
I hope it works.
CalifornicationSeptember 16, 2013 at 9:16 PM | Posted in Journal | Leave a comment
The life of a writer is a fair bit of fiction, highly romanticized and not at all like what it is portrayed as in fiction or movies or television.
That seems kind of ironic, seeing as how those media are created by the duplicitous lying writers themselves. The bastards.
Yeah, I'm one of them–or I consider myself one, anyway. Writing is one of the few occupations in which the only credentials you need are self-delusion. You only have to *say* you are a writer, and BOOM! – you're a writer.
What do you do?
I'm…I'm a writer.
Have you written anything I would know?
I don't know–have you been in a bathroom stall lately?
Well, what have you published?
Oooohhhh…Published. Published is a whole different matter. Published separates the true artists from the odorous masses. Being published is what leads to fame–and more importantly–to being paid.
Blogs are like assholes. Everyone has one and no one gives a shit about yours.
The Internet, and the disease which sprang from them called blogging, has been a boon to the hipster-types and other disaffected youth who feel that they are artists–
No, LISTEN to me: They really *feel* like they are artists. They have something to say. Some unique perspective on life. Some inexorable, undeniable truth about society beats mightily within their individual chest cavities but collectively seeks the light. A story to be told. A narrative to be read. A song to be sung. A limerick to rhyme.
Maybe I'm talking shit about all of the talent-less assholes out there vying for your attention, and maybe I'm one of them as well. I've wanted to be a writer since I was fourteen, I think. And again since I was sixteen. And again when I was 19.
And so on.
Here it is over thirty years later, and I'm not really a writer in the strict biblical sense. I mean, I've written–Lordy, has I written!–but I've yet to be published in any meaningful sense that I can point to. other than this fucking blog.
The surest way to keep a secret is to publish it on a blog that no one reads.
All these things I talk about I am also guilty of, and I know it. I'm perfectly at ease being a hypocrite.
I've made a lot of false starts–and here I am yet again writing about another one–but usually it's because life gets in the way. Life. A job. A family. Paying bills. Crises after bloody crises. But I have poured my heart on my blog. The bare, naked truth. Within reason.
They (the various experts in the field) say that you have to write for yourself. Sounds like bullshit to me. They also say you have to know your audience, and write for them. They seem a bit fucking bipolar, if you ask me.
Well, I have done both. I have written for myself, and I have written for an audience that was occasionally there. I wrote the most when I was going through a tumultuous period in my life, and it helped me to get it out. That was the part that was for me.
And then I managed to get some feedback from a few devoted fans on the internet, and they liked what I had writ. That part was for them.
That part was for me also, because nothing makes you feel good like getting accolades from random people for something you created. It nurtures the narcissist within.
Being a writer, or trying to write, or trying to continue writing, or having an eye toward eventual publication…is a lifelong dream of mine. It's also like a hobby that I don't get to do. Like the guy who is obsessed with golf, but works 80 hours a week and never gets to play.
I feel your pain, bro.
I can't sit here and say that I'm going to start writing now, because I've done that so many times before it's not even funny. It's ridiculous. I'm a fucking tease. My brain keeps teasing my heart and saying it's going to give it what it wants–
But never does.
So I'm not going to do that. I have a book I need to work on. Maybe I will, maybe I won't. I have 47 other books to work on. Maybe I will, maybe fuck you.
But I do have this. I have this blog, this god forsaken hole in the Internet that I've laid claim to. You can go back and see all that I have written, and all that I have gone through, and it is an abundance of life experience.
I'm going through something now–I'm out of a job. And I appear to have time to write about it, because–once again–I'm out of a fucking job.
So that's what I'm going to do. I'm getting back to my roots. My blog roots. Bloots. It'll be funny, it'll be sad, it'll be at once bitter-sweet and ridiculous, because that's my wheelhouse.
I recently watched six seasons of the show "Californication," virtually back to back. Of course there is an abundance of sex and drug use and nudity. Still, I identify with the main character. Hank Moody is a writer, and he is haunted by the choices he has made, and these ghosts cause him to continue to have deficiency in decision making, and he left as the product of the life he has led.
But he is a writer, so he gets to be all soul-searching and introspective about it.
At the very least, that's what I get to do also.
Visitors from Out of TownSeptember 5, 2013 at 9:07 AM | Posted in Fiction | Leave a comment
I haven't been here in a long, long time. But if we're talking about ancient Sumer, no one has…
The Book of Nezzrahem
1. In the seventy-third-plus-fourteen year of the Uruk Kingdom, in the time after the planting but before the ministering, in the region near the city-state of Larsa, but south, near the river valley, which is as fertile and a gift from the gods, there was a village with no name;
2. For this village, which hath no name, was the place wherefrom the kings' armies would take their supplies; the farmed goods which had been harvested, and the meat from the cattle they produced, any metal goods and carts, and of course, the women, for the Kings' Armies required the best of all things the Valley of the Kings could produce, and this village with no name hath a reputation for producing beautiful creatures, which were taken for the pleasure and solace of the Kings' Armies.
3. And it came to pass that while working the field, the family of Nezzrahem was visited by a group of heavenly travelers.
4. The travelers had the appearance of unworldly dress, and emerged from a shining enclosed chariot, pulled by neither man nor beast, but instead seemed to be powered by the gods; it was a half-complement of creatures, numbering 8, and their countenance and mannerisms showed them to be not of this ether.
5. For though they spaketh the language, it was halting and guarded, with strange usage of words, and odd pronunciation; nevertheless they communicated with the family of Nezzrahem, and told of their mission.
6. But the Nezzrahem family did disagree on what the angelic visitors said their mission was, for their individual understanding was different; Father Neb-On-Nezzra saith that their mission was to bring the power of the gods to the Kings' Armies, and glorious weapons heretofore unseen by man;
7. But Daru-Le, chief wife of Neb-On, claimed that their mission was to bring to pass a bounteous harvest;
8. And Evi-Der, the middle wife, said the mission of the angels was to protect the newborn children from disease, and from the Maelstrom of the Kings, the annual culling of the children.
9.And te-Delri, the junior wife, was forbade to speak, as is law. And thusly were the children ignored, for though they had experienced the same event, their words and their minds were weak and could not be trusted.
10. But the eldest son, Neb-On-tok-Nezzra, having reached the Age of Ritual and was now preparing to join the Kings' Armies after the harvest was fulfilled, and was considered a man, and as such lay claim to the right to speak, and thusly did relay his account of the vision of angels.
11. And it came to pass that Neb-On-tok-Nezzra told his story, far and wide; and his story did get repeated, and his story passed from village to town to city-state, even unto reaching the ears of the Counsel of the Kings.
12. And it came to pass that the Kings then did call for young Neb-On-tok-Nezzra to come unto the Palace of the Kings, and tell his tale; and he did.
13. Wherefore Neb-On-tok-Nezzra spaketh before the kings, and told of the day the angels came;
14. He said there was a blinding, holy light, which filled the sky;
15. He said that instantly, there was the chariot, shining and glowing like the sun, enclosed, made of some unknown heavenly material;
16. He said that it opened mysteriously, and the eight holy creatures disembarked;
17. He said that it was difficult to understand them at first, and they he; but after a fashion, their words flowed effortlessly;
18. He said the heavenly creatures were there on a mission; that thusly they had traveled a long distance through both time and space, which made no sense; for how does one travel through time?
19. He said they were there to study and to learn, and watch how we as children of the Valley of the Kings lived our lives;
20. He said that when they were done, they would return to the time and place from whence they came;
21. And the Counsel of Kings, upon hearing this tale, did confer with one another; for such a thing as they had never heard before, and likewise wished to never hear again.
22. Because all power of heaven and earth resides with the Counsel of Kings; wherefore if such a thing existed beyond their scope it must therefore be removed;
23. Wherefore all evidence of the visitation of the Angels had taken leave with them; nothing remained that showed it had ever taken place.
24. Wherefore the King of the city-state of Babyl spaketh, saying, "If these then are the only witnesses to this event, wherefore should we not remove them, to hasten the departure of this abominable story from our eyes?
25. And it came to pass that the other kings agreed; wherefore the King of the city-state of Umma bade the counsel well and departed.
26. And it came to pass that the King of the city-state of Umma collected his generals in Bad Tibira, and forthwith they rode;
27. And it came to pass that the Kings' Armies marched to Larsa, and continued south;
28. And it came to pass that the Kings' Armies marched to the village with no name, the home of the Nezzrahem clan;
29. And it came to pass that the Kings' Armies did burn the village, and the fields, and the killed the men, and the women, and the children.
30. And so it shall be that this record carved shall be hidden, and shall remain the only witness to the slaughter of the people of the village with no name.
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Rule #1—Don't flirt with your boss!
Dr. Stevie Wilson knows the rules—but in Brazil, in the confines of their medical boat, she's finding it virtually impossible to keep away from her lethally attractive boss, Dr. Matt Palermo. Even their hammocks are on top of one another!
Rule #2—Apply ridiculous amounts of insect repellent.
This one's easier to follow, but that won't help to banish thoughts of the hunky Matt….
Rule #3 is the biggest challenge of all—Never fall for a man who has buried his heart deep in the Amazon jungle!
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Global cuteness increased by discovery of new loris
Three new species of Bornean slow loris have been discovered, quadrupling the world's cuteness index
Time-travelling 3D tour shows birth of Eiffel Tower
Watch an ultra-realistic 3D reconstruction that lets you experience Paris through the ages
Warning, speedsters: you can't fool quantum radar
A technique borrowed from quantum cryptography could make it impossible to spoof military and police radar systems
Leaked IPCC report reaffirms dangerous climate change
Despite claims to the contrary, a leaked draft of next year's IPCC report on climate does not let us off the hook by blaming warming on the sun
Satellite upgrade should let planes slash emissions
Air traffic controllers will know exactly where planes are and could direct them to fly closer together along the best flight paths
Looks like we've got allergies all wrong
From pollen to peanuts, we humans are an allergic lot. So could it be that allergies serve an evolutionary purpose, ask Noah Palm and Ruslan Medzhitov
Mysterious star deaths are really mergers in disguise
A star that appeared to explode this year might actually have merged with another massive star - shedding light on the chemical make-up of the universe
Feedback: Healthscare insurance
The palaeontological love of poo, healthscare insurance, a fat-free cream conundrum, and more
AI designer learns to build games from scratch
An artificially intelligent video game designer, Angelina, has built a new festive game by adopting bits of existing games and tweaking its own early attempts
The end of race history? Not yet
Two books illuminate how ideas of a post-racial world conflict with ongoing use of race in science, says Osagie K. Obasogie
Touchpad steering wheel keeps eyes on the road
A head-up screen and a touchpad allow drivers to flick controls without having to look down at the dashboard or satnav
Permian mass extinction triggered by humble microbe
Was it a volcano? Was it a meterorite? No, a humble microbe wiped out 90 per cent of Earth's species 251 million years ago
Today on New Scientist: 14 December 2012
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White high waist brief panties made of elastic fabric and top quality sheer embroideries on front. Perfect match for Pamela White Sheer Balconette Bra or Pamela White Sheer Bra in Plus Sizes, if you need more coverage on front and back than with standard Pamela bikini panties.Read More...
These sexy high waisted panties give you the best of both worlds with their superior comfort, fuller coverage and added sensual designs. This high waist brief lingerie piece gives you a more defined shape and more coverage than your average panties giving you all of the confidence you need to strut your stuff. These panties are perfect for concealing areas of your stomach and love handles that you may be self conscious about. These high waisted panties are also perfect for smoothing out your curves to perfection. Regardless of your body's shape or size, you'll certainly feel more confident with this lingerie piece that naturally complimeants your body. Whether you're trying to conceal certain areas of your mid body or better define your curves, these high waisted panties will help you achieve that perfect smoothed out hour glass figure you're aiming for.
This exclusively unique maxi panty style lingerie piece is made of a white silky smooth elastic material that's smooth against your skin and comfortably stretches to embrace your body figure.
These chic and stylish high waist briefs aren't only designed for comfort, support and superior coverage but are designed to give you a look that's just as sexy as the feel of these maxi panties. The front middle section of this lingerie piece features a sexy peekaboo trapezoid shaped cut of sexy sheer material that's embroidered with elegant floral ornameant designs. With exceptional coverage and an attractive design, these sexy peekaboo high waist briefs would be the perfect addition to your lingerie drawer.
Available in sizes: L - Large, XL - Extra Large, XXL - Extra Extra Large.
Good elastic panties, nice to the touch, the coverage I like. I am happy with my purchase.


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About us
For further information please contact the Faculty of Vocational Education and Training (VET)
- email@example.com
Courses and Programs
For Students
Industry Schools
- Automotive and Civil
- Building Technology
- Electrotechnology (Top End)
- Metal Trades and Engineering
- Trades (Central)
Community and Children's Services
VET Businesses
Business and Employers
Learner Support Services (for employers)
We provide assistance to study assistance to students during their studies.
NT Training Entitlement Provider
We are a provider approved to deliver government subsidised training places under the NT Training Entitlement to eligible students at the Certificate III level or higher.
Visa Benchmark Training Solutions
If you need to meet your compulsory Training Benchmark or risk cancellation of your sponsorship, CDU offers solutions for Visa Training Benchmarks in the Northern Territory.
Study VET at CDU
As the largest Vocational Education and Training (VET) provider in the Northern Territory, we invite you to explore the range of courses we have on offer.
We provide accredited training in job-related and technical skills. Our courses offer relevant and practical training that will help you enter or progress within the workforce with confidence and equip you with the skills you need to respond to shifting demands of work.
CDU has over 22,000 students enrolled in VET, Higher Education and Research, spread across eight campuses and centres in the Northern Territory, as well as Melbourne and Sydney. As one of a handful of universities in the country that provides both Higher Education and VET courses, CDU believes that every learner should be offered alternative ways to access education and to acquire universal skills, qualities and understandings.
Who needs this guide?
This guide is for anyone who is interested in completing a VET qualification or unit at CDU. It provides you with the information you need to become a CDU student, from application to enrolment. It also has information about the support services available to you as a CDU student.
We look forward to receiving your application and hope you will take the opportunity to stay connected to CDU over the long-term.
Legislation, regulations and standards applicable to CDU students
During your studies at CDU, various government legislations, regulations and standards may apply to your studies.
To study a VET course, the Northern Territory Education Act states you must be over 17 years of age at the time of enrolment unless:
1. You have completed year 10 of high school and have NT Department of Education (DoE) approval to undertake full-time work or an approved full-time training program. To find out more about approved education, training or employment, visit the Northern Territory Government's education and learning website.
2. You are enrolled as a school student. If you are enrolled as a school student, you may undertake VET training under the conditions relating to VET for secondary students.
For further information visit CDU's governance page.
Types of VET courses
At CDU we recognise that students have other commitments and that study and training need to fit around these. Our delivery of courses is flexible and varies according to demand, location and circumstances. There are full-time, part-time and online study options available depending on the course. The wide range of courses and study levels available also means that there are opportunities to progress all the way to university level within CDU. Visit our course catalogue to view the full range of courses offered.
Certificate 1
Courses cover base-level skills for entry into the workforce and/or further learning. They are usually offered in remote locations or through schools.
Certificate II
Courses are introductory level courses that provide basic knowledge and skills, and prepare students for entry-level work positions or apprenticeships in a variety of industries and/or further learning. A Certificate II demonstrates to a potential employer that you're actively interested in their industry.
Certificate III
Courses provide theoretical and practical knowledge and skills for a specific area of work and/or further learning. This level of qualification is ideal for those wanting an apprenticeship or traineeship.
Certificate IV
Courses provide theoretical and practical knowledge and skills for specialised and/or skilled work and/or further learning. Designed for supervisory and management positions, this level of course is ideal for those who want to advance their careers in the industry they already work in, or further develop skills and knowledge acquired through previous study. Successful achievement at this level may provide up to 40 credit points towards an undergraduate higher education award in the same field or discipline.
Diploma courses provide specialised knowledge and skills for skilled/paraprofessional work and/or further learning by developing broad and in-depth skills in professional, technical or creative fields. Skills taught include planning, development and management. Successful achievement at this level may provide up to 80 credit points towards an undergraduate higher education award in the same field or discipline.
Short courses
Short courses can be a group of units that lead to a particular skill or non-accredited course that focuses on a particular skill or licensing requirement.
Enrolling in diploma or higher level courses
If you are enrolling in a diploma or higher level course, you will have to meet the entry-level requirements for the course. For more information contact your industry team Customer Service Officer.
Apprenticeships and traineeships
Apprenticeships and traineeships are a great way to get a head start in a chosen career or to retrain for the career you have always wanted by providing a nationally recognised qualification and on-the-job experience. It combines time at work with training and can be completed full-time, part-time or while you are still at school. You must have an employer and you must lodge a contract of training with Australian Apprenticeships NT.
School-based apprenticeships
School-based apprenticeships (SBA) enable senior secondary school students to get a head start on their career by allowing them to commence training towards a VET qualification and earn a wage, while still working toward their NT Certificate of Education and Training (NTCET). SBAs are considered part-time apprenticeships.
The breakdown of shared training and education equates to three days a week at school and two days at work or VET training. To enquire about school-based apprenticeships talk to your school VET coordinator.
VET for secondary students (VSS)
CDU make available a variety of VET programs to school students from years 9, 10, 11 and 12.
Each year the VET programs that are made available to school students are determined in conjunction with the NT Department of Education (DoE). VET programs that are not included in the VSS offerings are generally not available for access by school students.
Special entry requirements must be met for students less than 15 years of age. CDU will not accept students who are younger than 13 years of age.
> Students must be enrolled at school in years 9, 10, 11 or 12 and be 15 years of age when enrolling in any CDU program.
> Consideration is made to allow some year 9 and 10 students who are as young as 13 years at the time of enrolment to access 'Skill Set' programs or full certificate programs that do not exceed level 1. However the following shall apply:
- Underage students will have a letter of support provided by the school principal to attach to the CDU enrolment form.
- Secondary schools will comply with the CDU Children on University Premises Policy, which requires the secondary school to provide an adult supervisor to accompany the underage student(s) (students younger than 15 years) for the duration of time spent on a CDU campus.
> All VSS students must complete a DoE compliant VSS Expression of Interest form. This form provides the parent/guardian and school student permission to participate in an adult training environment.
Unique Student Identifier (USI)
All students undertaking nationally recognised training need to have a Unique Student Identifier (USI). This Australian Government requirement was introduced in January 2015.
The USI creates a secure online record of your training and qualifications gained in Australia from all training providers, conveniently kept together in one location. Creating a USI only takes a few minutes and it is free. You need to create a USI only once and it will stay with you for life.
Your USI must be provided to CDU before you can receive a Statement of Attainment or qualification. For more information about USI visit the CDU USI website. Create your USI here.


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During National Safety Month, we invite you to look at your home through a burglar's eyes to see what areas of your home you should improve to keep your family and property safer.Read More
Keep your family and home safe with these 3 simple resolutions.Read More
Keeping track of your kids, whether at home, the mall, at extracurricular activities or at school is easy when you choose the right smartphone apps. Here are our "must-have" apps to keep your child safe.Read More
If you're now an empty nester, it's time to review your home and personal security plan. Follow our five tips to prep for the next phase of your life.Read More


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An alpaca resembles a small llama. Domesticated for thousands of years, they graze on the heights of the Andes of southern Peru and are bread for their fibers. Their fibers are natural, lustrous and silky. The fibers are warmer than wool but not prickly and carded and spun much like wool. Alpaka offers both fur and Alpaka wool products; throws, carpets and cushions. The alpacas are not killed for their fur, the animals die naturally from the sometimes hard life on the heights of Andes. The Alpaka designs are contemporary but still classic. Their carpets entising for any modern home and all fur rugs and throws are handmade. Alpaka sponsors the Cienqilla village for children in Peru.
Akkal pottery
The pottery scene in Morocco is intense . In every Medina a you will find a high variety of pottery in patterns and colors which are enticing. In my opinion, the most exciting pottery in Morocco both in regard to craftsmanship and design is the Akkal pottery . They make lead free pottery which also holds water. The colors and design are an extraordinary fusion of moroccan flair with western sleekness, very suitable for us with contemporary tastes. The pottery is handmade in their studio in Marrakech and you can get almost any coloring or glazing you like. To see these artisans with clay up their arms quickly transforming a piece of clay into a beautiful object leaves me full of awe. Many of their pieces are custom made so you can order the size or color that suits your home or space. The pottery is now sold and marketed by Fenyadi.
AMI candles
Atelje Nihal
The production and sale of leather articles in Marrakech is everywhere. You can buy puffs, bags and shoes on every corner. An atelje which has managed to create leather and textile products with a new perspective is Atelje Nihal. They produce bags, carpets, cushions in intricate patterns of woven leather, cotton or linen. All items are hand woven and sewn. Many designs and patterns can be customized. The Atelje is located just outside Marrakech in a small showroom and workshop.
Artel glass
Bohemian crystal has been world famous for generations for their beauty and quality. When visiting Prague there is crystal around every corner. A lot of it, is still very traditional in regard to design. A company which has managed to combine the traditional crystal making techniques with more innovative designs is Artel. They offer many enticing and imaginative designs and colors. Both new traditional and contemporary and many in the legacy of the czeckoslovakian art deco movement. Their pieces are spotted in the high end design market, Arhitechtural Digest, Financial Times and Vogue. The choices of design and colors are many and you can order a costumized product in any pattern or color you desire. Real luxury has not been experienced before you enjoy a good wine in a heavy crystal goblet.
For Artel in the media; Click here!
The best soaps are known to be portuguese. Their choice of oils make the soaps soft and a delicious smell lingers after use. These soaps are made outside Porto in northern Portugal in a small workshop. The soaps are often even shaped and packed by hand. The smells they create are wonderful why their home fragrance series will swipe any space with a wonderful fragrance. The traditions are old dating back hundreds of years. Today only a few manufacturers dominate the market.
Devi Designs
Devi's concept fits selissa's perfectly. A contemporary indian design company in Dehli which produces handmade metal crafts according to indian traditions. Beautiful items are created by sandcasting or hand hammering then machines are used to buff and polish. Copper, brass, silver, aluminum or steel are molded into intriguing shapes. They support the Devi foundation, a nonprofit foundation supporting local art and founding an art center for exhibitions and education of contemporary art in India.
Erba Italia
When it comes to leather and design there is one country whose traditions shine before all others. Italy has probably the highest concentration of wonderful designs and extraordinary craftsmanship. But Erba Italia stands out when it comes to innovative, high end design furniture. Their sofas are sumptuous, design statements which will reinvent any space , office or home. Their leathers are soft and supple and their choice of fabrics large. Customizations are possible on all objects. My favorite Italian furniture brand. I cannot guarantee all is handmade but the quality and materials of their production is amazing. Enjoy!
Jaipur Rugs
The oldest traditions of high quality carpets come from Iran and Turkey. The indian tradition is newer and came with the Mughals. Initially the knotting and patterns were inspired by the persian traditions but now many more contemporary hand made designs are made. Jaipur rugs were founded in 1978 on a small scale and now it is a large indian carpet maker. But the carpets are still knotted in women's homes around the country originating in Jaipur.They are handwoven, hand tufted or hand knotted. They offer many traditional and contemporary designs and ale customized orders. We carry a few of the more interesting contemporary designs but you can order a wide variety of carpets of your liking. The Jaipur Foundation founded 2004 works with education women in carpet making and business with a mission to empower underprivileged women. They have received many prices for the social work supporting women and schools. A hand knotted carpet made for you will take some time depending on size. But that is a fact as one woman in her home will be knotting a carpet just for you. I think about this every time I put my feet on my soft jaipur rug.
Cashmere is one of India's premier luxuries and one of india's oldest craftsmanships. Janavi with its signature creations of shawls, stoles and blankets combine luxury with traditional and intricate craftsmanship. Janavi's collections are classic but inventive. Each handcrafted piece is created from the finest cashmere combined with lace and needlework. A reinvention of the cashmere traditions with new intricate designs!
J Monteiro
Filigree was part of the jewelry making thousands of years ago in Mesapotahmia and the tradition developed in Europe during the middle ages. Portuguese filigree developed in the 17-18th century making pieces of extraordinary complexity. The tradition lives on today in the ateljes in the north of Portugal. selissa works with a small workshop which has been there for many generations outside Porto. This little workshop with mostly male artisans carry on the tradition of filigree creating pieces of art from thin silver threads. They also make more contemporary pieces as well as traditional designs. All pieces are hand made out of thin silver threads or gold coated silver threads. All gold in portugal is 19.5 carats. My favorite are the large beautiful earrings they create, they are very light and comfortable to wear all day!
Our first visit to Taj Mahal was originally one of the triggers behind the creation of selissa . The intricate and complex geometric design of inlayed marble of the Taj can make us all in awe of what is humanly possible to create. The workshops producing artifacts of marble inlays with semiprecious stones is remarkable. The patterns are in the head of the artisan chipping a way a small piece of marble at a time to create space for every stone that is then glued in to the marble. They do all this by hand as they did when building the Taj. The white marble is high density indian Taj marble . The black is as well and according to stories the marble that should have been used for the second black Taj that was planned opposite the river, at least according to some. These inlayed marble works can be custom ordered in any size or form. In my opinion true luxury is to feel the smooth surface of inlayed table and thinking of the craftsmen mastering the hard stones.
Meera Mahadevia
Asias number one designer and producer of evening bags. All bags are hand made by her team of artisans in India in metals, materials and semi precious gemstones. They are all a piece of jewelry. Meera has a store in Mumbai and through her designs she reinvents the traditional craftsmanship in metal and gemstones with her artistic handbag designs. They are elaborate, a spice of India combined with a western touch. A great example of the reinvention and development of old traditional rafts with exquisite designs.