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Malin Akerman Gossip
Malin Akerman gossip, latest news, photos, and video.
Nina at home
Nina Dobrev was home in Toronto over the weekend to celebrate the TIFF premiere of her horror satire, The Final Girls, at Midnight Madness. The movie (and movie within a movie) is a really fun romp, and after a day of press, she celebrated with her co-stars Malin Akerman and Taissa Farmiga at a party before the film. Full Story
Worst Emmy Tendrils: Malin Akerman
Jason Merritt/ Frazer Harrison/ Kevin Winter/Getty
Okay, so we know there's a hierarchy to these things, right? All the dresses are chosen in sequence of who gets to wear them, with the best going first, and the last ones going to the guest stars or wives or ladies Of A Certain Age. Malin Akerman isn't super A-list, but she's not nobody, either. Full Story
The GMD could totally do Nessun Dorma
As we all know, the GMD got really into the singing for Rock of Ages. And they keep trying to tell us that he can actually sing for real. That we will be amazed by his vocal abilities. That his voice will complete you. Was this part of the contract? Because one after another they're trotting them out to deliver these lines, the same lines, so if it's not overly obvious then, um, it must be true??? According to his Rock of Ages co-star Malin Ackerman: "You will be shocked. Full Story
Not his best day
The Bang Bang Club screened at the Tribeca Film Festival today. Malin Ackerman, Ryan Phillippe, and Taylor Kitsch were all present. I don't know what's happening with Taylor's hair but it's hurting me, like actual physical pain. Obviously not his best showing. Having said that, yay for him hanging out with DeNiro on red carpets! But back to the hair… Is it long in the back or short? Is it in a ponytail? Is that a combover? Why am I including the word COMBOVER in an article about Taylor Kitsch????????????? The world hates me. Full Story
Smutty Tingles
Robo in danger!
Never mind the wrath of Xenu. Katie Holmes has disrespected Twilight. And the Twi-Hards, well, you know they can f-ck a bitch up. Katie and her friends hit up a New York theatre on Saturday to see New Moon. Instead of memorising every minute of the movie and hanging on every tortured glance exchanged between Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson, Katie supposedly would not shut up. Full Story
Bridesmaid dresses…
Are almost never cute. Why can't every bridesmaid just wear her favourite little black dress? Makes for great photos. But brides are crazy. I KNOW because I was a bride and I was crazy. And I was a crazy bride with a crazy squawking chicken mother. Imagine. Anyway, Katie Holmes wore a bridesmaid dress today on the set of The Romantics in New York shooting a wedding scene while towering over Elijah Wood. Full Story
Better genes
It makes my friend Jody very happy when I post pictures of him. I am happy to post them. Am happy to make her happy. So everyone wins with Jason Bateman. Jason was with his Couples Retreat co-stars in London today at a photocall to promote the film. Look how handsome. Jason Bateman and Rob Lowe. They never age, do they? It's the genes. Full Story
Ugh. Almost 10 million watched that f-ckery Jon & Kate can't afford to support all their babies so they exploit them on tv show last night. 10 MILLION. This morning I was on The John Gormley Show (he's adorable and I love him) and he got me on this rant about J&K and I was like, dude, I'm a gossip columnist. Full Story
Canadians in Cannes
Saturday night, Grey Goose party at the Chateau de la Napoule. A real chateau. Not some fake Adrien Brody upstate New York cheese ass girlfriend sh-t. Legit French chateau, spectacular setting. Grey Goose parties are the best. If you ever get invited to one, put aside everything and go. Be like Tara Reid and book on points. Full Story
It's happening. Finally.
I have been begging, BEGGING, for 3 years for Taylor Kitsch to be recognised. It's coming. It's happening. Finally. Wolverine. But it should have been Tim Riggins and Friday Night Lights. Better late than never, I guess. Did you weep last week when Street and Riggins said goodbye? You'll weep even more reading Scott Porter's very candid, very thorough blog for EW.com Full Story


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Brazil were made to work hard by their numerically-inferior opponents, but they eventually prevailed to beat Cameroon 2-0 and reach the semi-finals of the Men's Olympic Football Tournament. A tight, chance-shy 90 minutes failed to separate the two sides, before extra-time goals from Rafael Sobis and Marcelo earned the Seleção a meeting with old foes Argentina.
Dunga curiously left Thiago Neves and Alexandre Pato out of his starting line-up and without them, Brazil appeared shorn of their usual spark during the first half, with the mercurial right-foot of Ronaldinho from set-pieces their only genuine source of opportunities. He tested Cameroon goalkeeper Amour Tignyemb with one curling effort on four minutes, and then directed a teasing cross on to the head of Rafael Sobis midway through the half, only for the striker to nod wide.
The Africans defended resolutely, with their best efforts coming from long range. The pick of them was a Gustave Bebbe piledriver, which went narrowly over the crossbar on 30 minutes.
Cameroon were reduced to ten men soon after the restart when Albert Baning pocketed his second yellow card for a foul on Lucas. However, despite their numerical advantage, Brazil struggled to break down their opponents, even after the introductions of Thiago Neves and Alexandre Pato. They did, nevertheless, dominate possession and every time their opponents attempted to launch a counter-attack, tireless midfielder Anderson was there to stop them in their tracks.
With 101 minutes on the clock, Diego unlocked the Cameroonian defence with a long ball. Rafael Sobis raced on to it and with only the keeper to beat, he made no mistake to put Brazil in front. They effectively sealed victory four minutes later when, after sublime interchange between Ronaldinho and Thiago Neves, Marcelo somehow scored with his thigh from close range.

subset: commoncrawl


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أخبار الفريق الأول
Fernandinho: There's more to come
Fernandinho says Pep Guardiola and the Manchester City squad are working tirelessly to improve in key areas ahead of next season.
The Catalan boss has gradually altered the Blues' style of play and there have been clear signs of improvement in recent months, with City unbeaten in their last six league games.
And although Fernandinho admits there have been difficulties in Guardiola's first year in charge, he believes there are plenty of positives going into next season.
"Pep has his own philosophy and we have proved already we are able to do what he wants," he said.
"This season has been tough for us; something went wrong.
"But at the end we still have a chance to go into the Champions League and I'm sure we can improve next season.
"That's our target, our goal, to win the next two games.
"Especially the next one at home in front of our own fans because I think they deserve it.
"Then the last game is at Watford, which will be tough again but we are ready for that.
"We are trying to improve week by week, training session by training session.
"I'm sure we are improving for the next two games and for next season as well."
City currently sit fourth in the Premier League with a game in hand on Liverpool just above them, leaving them needing two wins from their final two matches to secure automatic qualification for the group stages of next season's Champions League.
Their most recent victory, a 2-1 win over Leicester, was far from straightforward and City needed to show plenty of resolve in the second half as last season's champions rallied.
But Fernandinho says it was vital to get over the line and secure the three points in order to keep their Champions League hopes in their own hands.
"We played well enough to get the three points," he said.
"We started well in the first half. Second half there was lots of pressure, lots of long balls but at the end we got the points. That's the most important thing.
"I am happy for the three points because we have two games left and it was important to win."


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- (noun) skill or expertise in a particular activity or field; "his prowess as a fisherman"
- (noun) bravery in battle; "the knights were famed for their prowess in battle"
Prowess (प्राउअस / प्राउइस) meaning in Hindi (English to Hindi Meaning)
- कौशल, दिलेरी, वीरता, शूरता, साहस, भुजबल, विचरना
Prowess Origin
- Middle English (in sense 2): from Old French proesce, from prou 'valiant'. Sense 1 dates from the early 20th century.
Prowess in a sentence (word usage in recent newspaper)
- India's skilled manpower and Finland's high-end tech prowess should be leveraged under the 'Make in India' initiative.
- Zac Posen Shows Off His Film Prowess at Metrograph.
- India "proves Ballistic Missile Defence prowess"
- Obamacare tests Trump's deal-making prowess.
- Why Israel's Sudden Baseball Prowess Actually Means Something.
Mnemonic trick to remember the meaning of prowess
- prowess meain chuppa hai POWER
Prowess Pronunciation


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30 October 2011
Wilbur Chocolate Factory
photos by Tom b.
- Alexa Chung for Madewell sweater
- vintage button up shirt
- vintage 60s skirt
- Topshop boots
- vintage Coach purse
My plan for posting photos today was to show you my Halloween costume that I wore yesterday. That plan was thwarted by a freak snowstorm that dumped about 5 inches of heavy, wet, sticky snow all over the region. My costume wasn't as elaborate as last year's but I was still dressed up as a character from a movie. Perhaps I'll recreate it later this week and snap some photos so I don't want to give it away just yet. Do you have any guesses?
Earlier last week Tom and I stopped in Lititz by the Wilbur Chocolate factory and snapped these photos. You can tour the factory and visit a little gift shop where they sell all sorts of chocolaty treats but it was all closed when we were there. The smell of chocolate in the air was such a tease coming out of the factory! I didn't get a treat but there was a little vending machine selling food for the ducks so I figured I'd give them a treat.
20 comments:
- Rae said...
Beautiful sweater and great photographs. Love the ducks. xo, rv
- October 30, 2011
- Bubble My Licorice said...
great outfit!
awww you are feeding the ducks,that is so cute!
- October 30, 2011
- felicity said...
Love the sweater! And now I'm hungry for Wilbur Buds, thanks! I grew up close to Hershey so it took a while for my husband (a Berks Co. native) to convince of Wilbur's superiority but he eventually succeeded.
- October 30, 2011
- sweet harvest moon said...
Beautiful pictures!
Can't wait to see your costume :)
- October 30, 2011
- Jo - Lost in the Haze said...
Wow wow wow - a chocolate factory! Mmm mm mm! <3 I love the cute ducks frolicking outside! (I am slightly obsessed with ducks; I can never resist their charm!)
Lost in the Haze
- October 30, 2011
- Anonymous said...
Such an awesome place for pictures! and i love your outfit :)
- October 30, 2011
- The Semi Sweet said...
I absolutely love that sweater!! Especially with the mini vintage skirt. Sorry to hear the snowstorm ruined the halloween festivities:(
- October 30, 2011
- Unknown said...
i love the skirt!!
<3 steffy
Steffys Pros and Cons
- October 31, 2011
- Magar said...
I love feeding the ducks:) It's not quite as nice as chocolate but it's pretty close
- October 31, 2011
- Annalise said...
Aw, I think the ducks really liked you, or at least the treats! You look darling as always. I adore your sweater.
- October 31, 2011
- Aya Smith said...
I love this grey and cream combo! So timeless! You look gorgeous, and it's so cute to see you feeding the duckies :)
Aya ♥ Strawberry Koi
- October 31, 2011
- Joy said...
I am digging every photo. This is a really nice outfit that's totally up my alley!
- October 31, 2011
- Modern Milly said...
I really adore the Madewell sweater its such a classic piece which can be paired with lots of different looks. I've been lucky enough to score some similar looking knits from my local charity shops and have been wearing them to death since the colder weather crept in.
Always find your photoshoots inspirational, so thankyou! x
- October 31, 2011
- Unknown said...
Love that sweater! I love the entire Alexa Chung for Madewell collection! Great blog, following! www.casualglamorous.com
- October 31, 2011
- MOUSEVOX VINTAGE said...
i love this simple and pretty autumn look. being engulfed by the scent of chocolate and not being able to indulge would be torture for me!
- November 01, 2011
- Unknown said...
I just love that cozy sweater paired with your pleated skirt!
- November 02, 2011
- Inddu said...
You are soooo cute in this sweater -wich is wow!
and photos are great!
- November 02, 2011
- Naomi said...
I live in Lititz! I love how you used it as a backdrop.
- November 02, 2011
- chantilly said...
these photos are beautiful. i especially love that sweater!! x
- November 06, 2011
- the wild bunches said...
Love everything here, from the sweater to feeding the ducks. x
- November 20, 2011


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By Benjamin Kellogg Dec 02, 2011 0
Preparing for Finals
The end of the semester is drawing near, and I am relieved that my current work schedule will soon be coming to an end, and I will soon be able to relax for a few weeks before my last semester of college begins.
However, I am dreading the due dates for my various final assignments and the sudden spike in difficulty they have taken. If my college experience as of right now were a baseball game, it would be the bottom of the ninth inning with bases loaded, and I would have to hit a home run to bring everyone in and win.
Up through the Thanksgiving weekend, I did not have too much difficulty with my courses. The only assignment that had required a lot more work than usual was a midterm with two essays. I had to work into the night for several nights in a row in order to get that assignment done, and during this period, my spirits sank lower and lower. I like to get finished with my work earlier in the evening so I can have a little time to unwind, but in order to get the midterm done, I had to stay up past 1:00 a.m. to refine my thoughts and ideas. My misery subsided as soon as I handed the assignment in, but I knew it was only a matter of time before the final exam would be due.
My troubles began once again as Thanksgiving approached. I had a bibliographic essay for a course which was due just before Thanksgiving, and it required considerable work. It had been quite a while since I had done the midterm, so I was caught slightly off guard when I had to work into the late night for two straight nights to complete this assignment. Fortunately, I diligently completed the work and was able to celebrate Thanksgiving with my family, watch the parade on television, and have an entire day without having to worry about college work. It was a great feeling of freedom and relaxation. My family and I made quite the day of it. We visited with both sides of our family and had a great time.
My fun continued over the rest of the Thanksgiving weekend. I still had to do some college work, but the majority of my time was dedicated to doing some fun activities with the rest of my extended family. I went over to my uncle's house to visit, and I played video games with some of my cousins. I was the lead singer for our "Guitar Hero" band. On Sunday, my family and some of my aunts and uncles headed to a nearby antique show. We stayed for a few hours, and I was able to buy some items which suited my interests, and which I probably would never have known about had I not gone that day. All of these activities were fun diversions for me, and I feel that they were the calm I needed before the new storm of work came.
In the past few days, most of my mirth has faded away because of two different final assignments for two of my courses which have predominated over my regular work. One of them is a final exam, again with two essays due, which requires a lot of work to complete. I had to head out to the college library and a public library near my home a few days ago to collect books which will provide research material for the essays. With the help of the librarian, finding them proved to be a fairly simple endeavor, but I am hoping and praying fervently that I will not have to search through them relentlessly for information only to find that they do not have what I am looking for. When I did the last exam, I ran into this exact same situation and I did not have a lot of time to remedy it. Luckily, I was able to find some different pieces of information in the books which proved to be useful and completed the essays with only hours to spare. I hope that I will have more time to complete the current essays and that the research for them will go more smoothly. It was nerve-racking.
The other assignment is a combination of two different activities. First, I have to write abstracts of two research articles I found on the college library's database, again, with the help of the librarian. This was particularly interesting because I also learned a new skill since I had never had to use research articles before and had never had to find them. The librarian showed me step-by-step how to access them.
After I write the abstracts, I then have to write a one-page essay on whether I agree or disagree with what one of the articles says. As this is all new to me, I am finding it a bit stressful, but I am pushing forward.
I will spend the last couple of weeks of the semester completing these final exams and assignments. I cannot wait until it will all be done and over with for another semester. I am looking forward to Christmas and relaxing on the college break. For now, I will do the best I can to get through my tough workload and hopefully make it out to the other side with good grades and more knowledge.


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Having a bit of a picture organizing and posting frenzy. Here's a selection from summer of this year, and our pics from our recent vacation in Canada
Archive for August, 2009
more toby and dara picsSunday, August 30th, 2009
Bermuda picsSaturday, August 29th, 2009
So it's only taken four months, but I finally got around to putting together the photos from our Bermuda trip and posting them to Toby and Dara's site. Hope you like them!
back in macMonday, August 24th, 2009
Sorry for the long hiatus – firstly I was away on vacation for a couple of weeks (one week in London for my brother's wedding, the second in Victoria, BC on the beautiful west coast of Canada) and also we've had some technical hitches at home. My HP notebook wouldn't start up – if I pressed the power button the power light would come on but nothing else would happen at all. Fortunately it's still covered by warranty, so it's away being repaired. Fortunately also I had backed up all my stuff just a couple of days before it died, so all my photos etc should be OK.
Then we noticed that Emma's iBook (now four and a half years old) was acting up. Loads of applications would try to start up but then just fail before they could do anything, for example Safari or Firefox browsers. I did some research (mostly knowing about the innards of PCs) and found that it could be due to corrupted .plist files, which are kind of like preference files for applications. The info I read said that if you're getting weird application behavior it's best to delete that application's .plist file, as the app will then create a new "clean" file when it starts next. So I went to my /user/library/preferences folder and deleted all the com.apple*.plist files (actually I put them into a backup folder – the point being that I moved them out of the preferences folder). When I started Safari, a new browser window came up, which was progress, and it said it was downloading information but rather than displaying a page it would just crash. Another clue was that some applications (like TextEdit) would start up OK but then crash when I tried to open a file. Clearly something else was up too.
When Safari crashed it gave the option to view the crash report, so I clicked that button and had a look. It was mostly a lot of strange looking info but one phrase seemed to show up several times:
/System/Library/Frameworks/ApplicationServices.framework/Frameworks/ATS.framework/Support/ATSServer: FOExceptionMainHandler caught a fatal exception
On searching around it seemed that ATSServer manages Apple Type Services – the font management on the screen. It looked like in this post there could be a problem with the font caches, but I couldn't find any of the cache files he referenced. Other sites suggested that there could be an issue with the mac's system fonts. Two clues which pointed towards this was that Microsoft apps (like Word) ran just fine, and would display different fonts OK, but the crashing behavior happened under both Emma's and my logons. It seemed that there are common system fonts, which all users of the computer use, and also account-local fonts, which the Microsoft apps were using. So a problem with the system fonts.
Fortunately I still have the OS X (operating system) install CD, so I used that to do a reinstall – not wiping everything, but preserving all our account settings. I didn't want to have to do something as drastic as a complete hard drive wipe and reinstall. But that didn't fix the problem. So I looked on the OS X CD for the fonts folder – found it and fortunately the fonts were easy to copy onto my desktop. I went to the system fonts folder /system/library/fonts and found that the names of the fonts there matched the ones on the install disk. Just copying over the font files didn't work, however, as some files were in use. So I had to re-create the fonts folder and get rid of the old (bad) one. This involved changing some folder permissions: I selected the /system/library folder, did CTRL+click, chose Get Info and changed the owner of the folder to be me, so I had read and write access. Then I changed the name of the old fonts folder to be FontsOld. Then I created a new folder called Fonts, and copied in all the fonts from the install disk. Finally I use the Get Info dialog to set the owner of the /system/library folder back to system (the original value). A quick reboot, and we had a result – the applications all started cleanly and fonts are displaying just fine.
It's a bit of a mystery to me why these font files would become corrupted, but I'm fairly pleased with myself that I managed to work all this out! It could be that there was a more elegant solution – if you know of one please leave a comment, and if you come across this post because you're having the same issue, let me know if this helps. I probably won't be able to help if it doesn't resolve your problem, because this stretched the limits of my Mac skills.


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E46020Regular price $616.00 Save Liquid error (product-template line 117): -Infinity%
ξ1998-2000ξ Mitsubishi Evolution 5-6ξ VS Styleξ Rear Bumperξ
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Should you need confirmation of availability prior to purchase, please contact us through Facebook or email.


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The Accounting Historians Journal Vol. 11, No. 2 Fail 1984
Baladouni UNIVERSITY OF NEW ORLEANS
Abstract: Selected on the basis of their etymological appeal to the author, eighteen accounting terms are traced to their earliest ascertainable form and meaning in the family of languages to which they belong. Such an investigation not only re-veals something of our past, but also helps energize the conceptual landscape of our vocabulary.a
An appeal to etymology in order to determine the current mean-ing of a word is no more reliable than an appeal to spelling in order to determine its present pronunciation. Over time, change of mean-ing is likely to alter the etymological sense of a word thereby ren-dering it obsolete or archaic. For example, if an "undertaker" was once someone who undertook to do anything, nowadays he only undertakes to manage funerals. It is established that what a word meant once is not necessarily what it means today. In matters of meaning, present usage is the only scientifically valid criterion.
Be that as it may, a knowledge of etymology can often help give a fuller and clearer understanding of what a word means now. The etymology of a word is its life history—its progressive development in form and meaning in the family of languages to which it belongs. As accountants utilizing English, we are naturally more interested in the development of accounting terms in our own language, but we must not forget that many of them had a long history before they entered the English language. An etymological interest in account-ing vocabulary can help not only in revealing our past, but also in making the present meaning of our terms richer and less forgettable. In the pages that follow are brief observations on some accounting terms, selected on the basis of their etymological appeal to the author.
a I thank Professors Toussaint Hocevar and Michael Dugan of the University of New Orleans for their comments on this paper.


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Potrero Avenue is the only direct bike route between the Mission District and southern neighborhoods east of Valencia Street. Thanks to SF Bicycle Coalition members and community partners, Potrero Avenue will receive critically needed safety improvements later this year.
The new Potrero, with its buffered bicycle lanes from 17th-25th Streets, will open up safe, healthy and affordable transportation alternatives for the Mission, Portrero Hill, Bayview and Dogpatch neighborhoods, all while facilitating access to SF General Hospital and local businesses.
As a truly multi-modal project, the Potrero update will also improve the transit experience of thousands of people who travel the corridor. Today, Potrero Avenue is one of the most dangerous corridors for people walking, an unacceptable state of affairs in front of San Francisco's largest hospital. The approved sidewalk-widening will be a necessary first step in making the area safer for everyone. Construction began in late 2015, with repaving from Alameda Boulevard to the 1o1 on-ramp included.
Potrero Avenue
Take Action
In the summer of 2005, this former six-lane arterial was re-striped between 17th and 25th Streets to add bicycle lanes, a partial bus-only lane and turn lanes. A coalition for safer streets made up of neighbors, employers, families and teachers from the Buena Vista Elementary School spent years organizing community, advocating, and working with city planners to put Potrero on a successful road diet.
In spite of these hard-fought improvements, Potrero continues to claim lives. Potrero Avenue is an important transit corridor, with 12,000 people riding Muni daily. All along Potrero, narrow sidewalks force pedestrians to be in close proximity with thousands of fast-moving cars and trucks. This has deadly consequences, particularly for children and seniors. The community set out to improve this unsafe design with the goal of creating a Potrero Avenue that acknowledges the presence of transportation modes beyond just motor vehicles.
The approval follows public outreach that began in 2012 and culminated with five bilingual community meetings in 2013. In collaboration with Walk SF and CC Puede, the community group that led the recent Cesar Chavez improvements, we have worked diligently to ensure maximum participation and support for this project from members, residents and businesses.


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Polk Street is the North-South route in San Francisco for people on bikes, but is also notoriously dangerous. That's why Polk Street is an essential part of Connecting the City, our vision for a network of bikeways linking our city's neighborhoods.
Despite its importance, bicycle infrastructure on this corridor remains woefully inadequate and plans for future changes do not include a continuous and protected bike lane in both directions. That's why we continue advocating for better bikeways along the whole length of Polk Street. We won a huge victory in 2014 when the three lower blocks of Polk Street gained a protected and green contraflow bike lane and yet another victory this year when the SFMTA Board of Directors voted for protected bike lanes from McAllister to Pine, but much remains to be done to make this critical corridor safe for everyone.
Help us make sure that all of Polk Street includes protected bikeways and much-needed pedestrian improvements from the Aquatic Park to Market Street by joining our Polk Street Campaign.
Polk Street
Take Action
Community Partners
Our members lead the vanguard for a safer Polk Street, but many organizations have also taken up the cause. San Francisco's Vision Zero Coalition – and Folks for Polk in particular – have added their voices to the call for a more livable corridor and are key allies in our mission to improve this important corridor in 2015.
Do you know an organization, business or school on or near Polk Street that wants to help shape the city's final design? Email us and find out how to get involved!
Launched in the mid-2012, the City's official Polk Streetscape Project stretches for 1.3 miles from McAllister to Union. The current SFMTA's preferred conceptual design does not include a continuous and protected bike lane in both directions, instead splitting the corridor into distinct segments, each receiving different levels of infrastructure improvements depending on merchant feedback. While the proposal does incorporate positive elements, particularly south of California Street, it misses the goal of having a continuous and protected bike lane in both directions. Your support will be critical in making sure we can do this.


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Ace of Spades, an 8-bit, Minecraft-like team-based FPS
Want to play an 8-bit, Minecraft-like, team-based first-person shooter? Check out Ace of Spades
There's a new team-based first-person shooter on the block called Ace of Spades, and most of you (including myself) have probably not even heard of it.
Well, the game is being made specifically with the gameplay found in Team Fortress in mind, wrapped in the 8-bit blocky Minecraft-like look, which also gives players in the game the freedom to build themselves a custom battlefield, on-the-go. Yes, while you're defending, shooting, and running away from bullets, you'll be making your own battlefield.
Ace of Spades supports up to 32 simultaneous players in a world that is completely destructible, and just like Minecraft, players are only limited by their own creativity in building their surroundings. Ace of Spades is a PC-exclusive (yay!) and has been in development since April 2011, with the beta sporting around 2.5 million players.
Ace of Spades will reach Steam in December this year for a "small fee". You can check out the official website here, and also check out their Facebook page where you can register to win a free copy of the game.
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In this path-breaking book, Jeb Sprague investigates the dangerous world of right-wing paramilitarism in Haiti and its role in undermining the democratic aspirations of the Haitian people. Sprague focuses on the period beginning in 1990 with the rise of Haiti's first democratically elected president, Jean-Bertrand Aristide, and the right-wing movements that succeeded in driving him from power. Over the ensuing two decades, paramilitary violence was largely directed against the poor and supporters of Aristide's Lavalas movement, taking the lives of thousands of Haitians. Sprague seeks to understand how this occurred, and traces connections between paramilitaries and their elite financial and political backers, in Haiti but also in the United States and the Dominican Republic.
The product of years of original research, this book draws on over fifty interviews—some of which placed the author in severe danger—and more than 11,000 documents secured through Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests. It makes a substantial contribution to our understanding of Haiti today, and is a vivid reminder of how democratic struggles in poor countries are often met with extreme violence organized at the behest of capital.
Click here to view photos related to the book.
It is absolutely imperative for Haiti's history that such a detailed account of the role of paramilitary violence in the country be recorded… The marshalling of facts and events… [and the] meticulous references are phenomenal… an historical narrative – supported by personal testimony, interviews, WikiLeaks, press reports, history and common sense, etc… careful juxtaposing throughout of information from embassy cables side by side with events as they were happening on the ground during this turbulent time. It shows the contradiction with what [the] mainstream press was reporting.
In this crucial work, based on years of interviews, investigative reporting, and analysis of classified U.S. government documents, veteran journalist and scholar Jeb Sprague provides a shocking account of the role of paramilitaries in subverting the aspirations of the Haitian people for democracy, freedom, and development. He shows with great detail and analytical acuity how these paramilitaries are in the service of local and transnational elites whose dual agenda is to repress those popular aspirations and to integrate Haiti as a dependent cog ever deeper into the global capitalist order. What comes through most clear are the lies and deceit of the U.S. government and other Western representatives, for whom 'democracy' is but a smokescreen for systematic and far-reaching efforts to prop up a decadent local elite, turn the country over to transnational capital, and repress through paramilitary terror any resistance to its plan for Haiti. This book is must reading for all those concerned with the political and paramilitary machinations of the new global capitalist order. It shows just how far the elites who dominate that order are willing to go to hold down the people of a tiny island nation that face one adversity after another and yet continues to struggle for freedom 200 years after they threw off the shackles of slavery and colonialism.
This book offers the most substantial and detailed account yet written of the paramilitary insurgency that contributed to the internationally-sanctioned overthrow of Haiti's constitutional government in 2004. Based on an impressive range of newly uncovered documents, the book provides a thorough and convincing analysis of this scandalously under-studied sequence, including a careful reconstruction of the struggle for power in the Haitian police force in 2000-2001, the Contra-style subversion campaign of 2003-2004, and the role played by the neighboring Dominican Republic. The result of this campaign more or less destroyed Haiti's precarious democracy and crippled the country's capacity to invest in its people or to respond to disaster; an understanding of the coup of 2004 and its consequences should remain central to any discussion of Haiti's reconstruction today.
This book offers a brilliant diagnosis of the history of political violence in Haiti. Jeb Sprague, who is a PhD student in Sociology, having interviewed some of the principal actors behind Haiti's transitional period, brings to light many political events from 1990 to 2005. The book highlights the contemporary phenomenon of paramilitarism in Haiti and looks closely at the ways in which it was revived in the early 2000s. From the investigation of the role of paramilitarism in connection to the coup d'état occurring in 2004 to the election of Michel Martelly in 2011 and the return of Jean-Claude Duvalier, the author examines different elements attempting to keep democracy away from the Haitian people. Here's a book that I will recommend everyone to read.
One might quibble about Jeb Sprague's evaluation of Lavalas's historical accomplishments, but one cannot deny that his book is a major and provocative contribution to our understanding of the travail of Haitian paramilitarism since the fall of the Duvalier dictatorship in 1986. Paramilitarism and the Assault on Democracy in Haiti is a must-read not only for Haitianists, but also for anyone interested in the processes of political destabilization and popular disempowerment.
This is a crucial story. For too long, the role of paramilitarism in these events has been recognized but little studied… Sprague is not only concerned with internal Haitian politics, however. The author correctly asserts that Haiti's battle for popular democracy was never isolated from the broader and profound changes in the Americas… the book reinforces the important point that the survival of progressive movements in the ever-shifting world of Haitian politics is a remarkable testament to the strength of their desire for full inclusion in a process that was set up to keep them out… [The] author does well to remind us why the conversation about Haiti's recent political history clearly needs to continue.
It is clear upon reading Jeb Sprague's recounting of the last 20 years in Haiti that the violence had the consistent purpose of weakening the popular movement in its aspirations. The demands are nevertheless the same, and will so remain until such time when there is genuine economic and cultural integration in Haiti. As long as poverty remains structurally entrenched, so will political violence … Jeb's book is a reminder of Haiti's delicate nature, like a powder keg ready to explode at any minute. He reminds us that, unless the majority's concerns are also on the list of policymakers' priorities, Haiti will remain unstable.
This book is very disturbing … too important a book not to give as much exposure as possible.
Sprague's demonstrated expertise on the history of Haitian paramilitaries leaves little doubt that we are witnessing another attempt to turn back the clock by relegitimizing a military force whose wars have always been waged against Haiti's majority poorest populations… [The author] waited six years to gain access to 11,000 U.S. embassy and State Department documents through the Freedom of Information Act, and he tirelessly catalogs and contextualizes the most salient information that could be gleaned from these documents… He knows that there are many who will resist his claims, and that the exhaustive work of documentation, contextualization, and the organization of events in a clear time line is crucial for his book to be heeded by skeptics… He has set the bar high for those who might seek to counter his claims. Focusing on a period in Haiti (2000-04) that coincides with the dawn of a post-9/11 era in which truth has become a troublingly flexible concept, his book restores faith in the power of evidence and tireless research to prove what really happened.
What I have read is good. We need to expose young Haitians themselves to the analyses by foreign scholars who are in solidarity with the democratic struggle. We need to build new solidarity within "nuestra America."


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Weather Blog: Another Round Of Snow Looms
Thank you for stopping by the Weather Watch 12 Blog! After a slow start to the winter season with little snow in December and the first half of January, February has been making up for lost time. Another round of snow is likely early this week. In today's blog we discuss the timing of the snow and give a broad estimate of potential snow totals.
Let's start with the nearly perfect late winter weather expected to close the weekend. Southeast Wisconsin will enjoy plenty of sunshine and light winds Sunday afternoon, throw in highs in the mid-30s and it will be a nice winter day.
Dry weather will linger through Monday before the next chance of accumulating snow arrives Tuesday-Wednesday. The season snow total for Milwaukee is still 9"+ below average but we are catching up fast. The image below shows the season snow total and also our Weather Watch 12 season snowfall prediction made in mid-November.
The forecast also included several strong cold fronts with extreme temperature swings, active and drier parts of the pattern, and increased chances for lake effect or enhanced snow. So far so good!
The next chance of snow will arrive Tuesday afternoon or evening in southeast Wisconsin. Strong low pressure will produce another blizzard in parts of the Plains, and heavy snow into the Midwest with 12"+ in parts of Kansas and Missouri. The HPC surface forecast map valid at 6am Tuesday is shown below.
Much like our system last Friday that weakened as it moved toward Wisconsin, so will the system for Tuesday-Wednesday. With that said we are still expecting accumulating snow. A wintry mix or snow should arrive after 1 or 2pm Tuesday and continue through Tuesday night and into Wednesday.
By Wednesday morning we may see 2"-4" in parts of the area according to the RPM computer model forecast shown below. The highest totals will occur in lake shore and bordering counties and also near the Wisconsin and Illinois border.
We will add to the totals on Wednesday as surface winds remain northeast pushing in lake effect or enhanced snow to the area. A prolonged period of light snow or snow showers will likely occur through Wednesday and possibly even into Thursday. Since we are talking about 3-4 days out, it's a little too far to pin down exact totals for the entire system.
Right now we feel confident saying you will likely need to shovel by Wednesday morning. Keep in mind a slight shift to the north or south of the storm track will result in a big swing in forecast snow totals.
Temperatures look to be in the upper 20s to low/mid 30s for this system meaning a wetter or heavier snow is likely.
For the latest weather information, watch WISN 12 News, and for updates throughout the day follow me on Twitter @jnelsonweather
Have a great day!
Jeremy Nelson


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Authorities investigate fatal crash in New Ipswich
NEW IPSWICH, N.H. (AP) � New Hampshire authorities are investigating a car accident and fire that claimed the life of the driver in the town of New Ipswich.
Police said the accident happened on Route 124 at about 10:30 p.m. Sunday. The driver was the only person in the car, which left the road and crashed into the woods. Police said the impact of the crash is the likely cause of the fire.
The driver has not been named. Police said expected to release that information pending the results of an autopsy Monday.


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Du er her
VET in Europe country reports
Learn more about the European national vocational education and training systems
VET in Europe - Country reports are a product of the VET in Europe project and review vocational education and training systems in Member States, Iceland and Norway. They are prepared and updated by ReferNet, according to a common structure provided by Cedefop.
Why VET in Europe - Country reports are of value
Understanding national VET systems, their characteristics, developments and priorities is a key element in different levels of the VET coordination and development process. It may also bring additional ideas and examples of good practice.
Downloading the country reports is highly recommended for policy-makers, researchers and practitioners involved in VET activities, including conferences, seminars or projects.


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As a benchmark, previously we had some nasty JVC "1200w" thing that cost $900 a couple years ago and that is all the volume required although a little more fidelity would be nice and definitely no bling like that. Looks arent important but those toy mega systems are hideous.
Budget is about $800 max but looking on trademe at likes of old Sony component systems for $400ish or less.
It will only get used at high volume like 3 times a year so not too thrashed. Must also be balanced enough to sound passable with quiet music. Hoping for an old mid-range system for not much at all.
So finer points of hifi not important but we arent tone deaf by any stretch.
Only modern thing it needs AFAIK is to play MP3s off smartphones (which I think just a standard 3.5mm to RCA adapter will do?)
It must have a CD-changer too too which I guess rules out most mini systems anyway.
New seems to be only mini systems for around $300 which may not loud enough outside on a big deck, then a big jump well past $1k which I ruled out, there is Sony "1350w" Midi System for $700ish but it looks hideous and probably sound very tinny and bass bloated.
Would an old mass market bookshelf component system be loud enough you think?
If I have to get seperate components (speakers/receiver/cd-changer) what do you think I might need to power these old but grunty looking speakers? I can get the speakers locally for $100
Peak 200W RMS 100W
Impedance 8 OHMS
Would a 2nd hand receiver of that power be too expensive/rare?
If anyone has anything to sell or can give me pointers on trademe that would be awesome but I dont expect more than general advice
Id rather get an all in one system as I dont know where to start matching seperate components, but if anyone can match a likely receiver to speakers that would be great.


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Find out what lights up the faces of the residents of Bhutan, the only country in the world that measures its well-being in GNH — Gross National Happiness. On a 10-day adventure across this bastion of Buddhist culture, explore remote mountain villages and shrines and climb magnificent heights to the cliff-side Taktsang Monastery, 900 metres (2,953 feet) above the valley floor. Amid the soaring peaks and cultural delights of this ancient place, discover your own capacity for happiness.
What's Included
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Meet a Buddhist Monk, Thimphu
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Family Farm Meal, Gangtey Gonpa
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Lecture on Gross National Happiness, Thimphu. Arrival and departure transfer. Visit the Rimpung Dzong. Hike to Punakha Dzong monastery and fertility shrine. Visit the town of Wangdue and walk to Khamsum Yueley Chorten shrine. Visit the village of Khewa. Black-Necked Crane Centre visit. Hike to the monastery of Gangtey Goempa. Walk across Phobjikha and Khewa valleys. Visit the National Library, the Institute for Zorig Chusum (arts and crafts) and the Thimphu Chorten. Hike to Kila Goempa nunnery. Explore shrines and temples of the Haa Valley. Visit the fortress of Drukgyal Dzong and hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest). Visit Kyichu Lhakhang Temple. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Visit one of the most remote countries in the world, enjoy a meeting and lecture with a monk about Buddhist culture in Bhutan, learn how to cook ema datshi (chili cheese) with a local farm family, hike along peaceful nature trails and thrilling cliffs, experience the pristine and peaceful nature of the "Dragon Kingdom"
Dossier Disclaimer
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.
VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
Itinerary Disclaimer
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
Important Notes
Please note there may be times during your visit to Bhutan when the use of video and/or still cameras may be inappropriate. Local people may consider that filming is too intrusive and in these circumstances we will request that you do not film. At all times be aware and sensitive to the impact of photography and seek permission before taking photographs of people and respect their wishes if they refuse.
Please note that there is a lot of walking and light hiking on this trip and some of it at higher altitudes. Please ensure you are in decent physical condition and able to walk for extended periods of time.
Bhutan, being a Buddhist country believes in ahimsa so the barking of dogs (and there are a lot of them) at night can be annoying. It's advisable to bring earplugs. If you are able to travel with a lot of patience and a good sense of humour, then we know that you – like all of us – will be captivated by what Bhutan has to offer.
The prime requirement for clothes you bring on Bhutan trip is that they are comfortable and appropriate to the weather conditions that you are likely to meet. For protection against cold, particularly at night, a number of relatively thin layers is better than a few thick ones. Thermal underclothes, being small and light, can be very useful. Bhutan is very conservative and you should dress accordingly. As a general guideline, shoulders and knees should be covered at all times. The wearing of shorts is not allowed as it will restrict your entry into buildings of a religious nature and family homes. A water and windproof jacket, a hat and sunscreen are essential.
Your flights into Paro, Bhutan, must be booked by you online. Please visit the following airline websites to do so:
Druk Air
Bhutan Airlines
Flights can be booked from: Bangkok, Kathmandu, Delhi or Kolkata (please check Visa requirements if flying via India). Once your flight is booked, contact your G Adventures agent, who will be happy to assist in booking your International connections.
If you are planning to extend your stay in Bhutan, pre or post-tour accommodation MUST be booked through G Adventures in order for us to issue a valid visa for the duration of your stay. These extra nights will include a guide and meals in addition to the accommodation.
Group Leader Description
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEO). The aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting – we think it's the best of both worlds.
Group Size Notes
Max 15, Avg 10.
Meals Included
9 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 9 dinners
Most meals in Bhutan are included in the cost of the trip – some are in the accommodation where it is the best quality/availability option. Most meals are served buffet-style with a selection of traditional Bhutanese food, some western-style (often pasta) as well as some Chinese. Fresh local vegetables are in abundance and while Bhutan is almost mostly vegetarian, there usually is one meat dish available (on some occasions, there can be shortages, as all meat is imported from India).
Private vehicle, walking, hiking.
About our Transportation
Traveling by road in Bhutan is certainly not what people are used to in Western countries. The roads in the mountains might not be the best but our drivers always keep the safety of the passengers first. Most roads consist of a series of switchbacks going up and back down mountain passes and can be quite bumpy. If you do suffer from motion sickness, we recommend you bring medication for the drives.
Solo Travellers
We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Hotel/lodges (9 nts).
My Own Room
Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops
About Accommodation
Hotels/Lodges and guest houses are used in Bhutan – these can vary in terms of service and efficiency, but offer quaint, local charm and flavour. In many instances they might not be like what you are used to back home. Accommodation is generally located in rural areas or outside town centres – they are traditional in architecture, style and its services to the guest. Electricity, wifi and water can often be sporadic and in some locations, wood stoves may be used.
Joining Hotel
For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.
Joining Instructions
An arrival transfer is included when you arrive on Day 1, or if you arrive up to three days prior provided that you have booked your pre-accommodation through National Geographic Journeys in our joining hotel. Due to customer experience and quality considerations, all services related to the tour must be continuous.
Our driver will be waiting for you with a National Geographic Journeys sign with your name on it, and they will be waiting for you outside the luggage hall. There most likely will be many signs, so please check carefully for your name.
Please note that Day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned, so you may arrive at any time. Similarly the last day is a departure day in which no activities are planned.
Your CEO will contact you at the hotel on Day 1 and make sure you are settled comfortably. If you arrive late, they will leave you a message detailing what time and where you should meet the next morning. Your CEO will organize a short meeting soon after arrival, during which you will meet other tour participants and receive information about general and specific aspects of the trip.
Arrival Complications
We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your group trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your CEO. If this is unsuccessful, please refer to our Emergency Contact. If your included airport transfer has not arrived within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, please make contact with our representative. We then recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please contact your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.
Emergency Contact
Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the G Adventures Local Representative (if one is listed below) or our G Adventures Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.
If you have purchased an arrival through G Adventures or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that:
Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you are advised of a flight schedule change within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, we will do our best to rearrange your arrival transfer however we cannot guarantee this. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel.
G Adventures Local Representative (Bhutan):
Ms Wangchuk Dem
Phone: +975 17 74 74 28
Mr Rajju Maskey
Phone: +977 9802014444
G Adventures Local Office (Delhi)
G Adventures South Asia Manager, Rishab (Delhi, India)
Emergency number:
From outside of India: +91 99 7179 5447
From within Delhi: 99 7179 5447
From within India, but outside Delhi: 099 7179 5447
G Adventures Office Bangkok, Thailand
During Office hours (Weekdays, 9am-5pm Local Time): +66-02-3815574
If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below, which will connect you directly with our 24 hour Sales team, who will happily assist you.
Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100
Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000
Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000
Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618
Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307
Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999
What to Take
We suggest that you pack as lightly as possible as your are expected to carry your own luggage. As a rule we try not to have to walk more than 15-20 mintues with your bags which is why we recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 10-15kg/22-30lb. Most travellers carry a backpack or rolling bag of small to medium size (no XXL ones please!). You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water, cameras and other electronics like ipods and mobile phones.
Packing List
Cold Weather:
• Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
• Scarf
• Warm gloves
• Warm hat
• Warm layers
Conservative Dress:
• Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders)
• Shawl or scarf (for temple visits)
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Required visas or vaccination certificates (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable)
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket
Light Hiking:
• Hiking boots/sturdy walking shoes
• Hiking pants (Convertible/Zip-off and quick dry recommended)
Smart Dress:
• Smart outfit (For evenings out)
Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear
Note: During the colder months (Oct-Apr) the mountains can be very cold, so please make sure you pack warm clothes.
Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
Visas and Entry Requirements
For Bhutan, National Geographic Journeys will arrange the visa for you. The cost of the visa is included in the tour price. The Bhutanese visa is issued to your passport on arrival, on submission of 2 passport sized photographs.
In order to arrange the Bhutan visa, you must provide National Geographic Journeys with the following:
- Scanned colour passport copy
- Arrival and Departure flight details for Paro
These details need to be submitted to us 35-40 days before departure.
We will then arrange the Bhutanese visa for you.The visa letter will be forwarded to you 2-5 business days before departure. We cannot get the visa letter issued any sooner, as it is issued by the Bhutanese government. Please print out the visa letter, you will be required to show this before boarding your flight to Paro.
Important: If you are planning to extend your stay in Bhutan, pre- and post-tour accommodation must be booked through National Geographic Journeys in order for us to issue a valid visa for the duration of your stay.
If arriving and departing Paro from India, please note that the Indian government has recently made some changes to visa regulation due to misuse of the Tourist visa. We encourage all passengers to contact the Indian consulate or embassy in their home country to get up to date information on entry requirements. This is especially important for those that are planning on entering India multiple times in a two month period.
Foreigners holding an Indian Tourist Visa, who after initial entry into India plan to visit neighboring Nepal, Bhutan or Sri Lanka and then re-enter into India within 2 months need to get special authorization.
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Money Exchange
There are ATMs in larger cities in Bhutan, and they will accept only Mastercard or Visa. As well, credit card can be used at larger hotels and shops but please note most places charge from 3-5% fees to use cards. The Ngultrum (local currency) is valueless outside of Bhutan so make sure that you change back all excess Bhutanese currency before you leave. It is possible to use Indian Rupees in Bhutan.
Emergency Fund
Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
It is customary in Asia to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is expected – though not compulsory – and shows an expression of satisfaction with the people who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. You may do this individually, or your CEO will offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from USD1-2 per person per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture. Also at the end of each trip if you felt your G Adventures CEO did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however as a guideline USD20-30 per person, per week can be used.
Optional Activities
No optional activities
Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure.
You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that sometimes we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. In Asia pharmacies tend to stock the same western drugs as you get at home but they are usually produced locally so please bring the full drug name with you when trying to purchase a prescription drug. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. G Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our CEO they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.
Safety and Security
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home – you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your CEO has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your CEO will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.
Protests and Demonstrations- Protests and demonstrations, even those that are well intended, have the potential to turn violent with no warning. Counter protests can also turn violent. Action by security forces to disperse demonstrators and protesters may occur at any time. If you are in an area where demonstrators or protesters are gathering, avoid the temptation of staying for a good photo opportunity and leave the area immediately.
Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards) have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s).
Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk.
We take all prudent measures in relation to your safety. For ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling, please visit:
A Couple of Rules
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Planeterra-The G Adventures Foundation
The Planeterra Foundation planeterra.org is a Canadian non-profit organization that helps empower local people to develop their communities, conserve their cultures, and create humane and supportive systems for their endeavours. Planeterra provides capacity building and catalyst grants to get community social enterprises off the ground. These businesses address local challenges by providing benefits for indigenous people, empowering marginalized women, and granting disadvantaged youth access to education, employment, and brighter futures. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating programs into G Adventures' itineraries globally.
G Adventures is Planeterra's largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need.
Dollar-a-Day Program
G Adventures' Dollar-a-Day Program provides travellers with the opportunity to give back to the people and places visited on our tours by donating one dollar for every day you are on trip. 100% of these donations go directly to support community development projects worldwide that are implemented by Planeterra.
Local Dress
Many Bhutanese people still wear traditional clothes and dress modestly.
After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at email@example.com and we will send it on to you.
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Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
International Flights
Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Max Pax
Max 15, avg 10
Group Leader
Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides.
Day 1: Paro/Thimphu (1D)
In clear weather, the flight over the Himalayas offers magnificent views of the world's highest peaks as they give way to the lush green Paro valley. The first gift from Bhutan will be the cool, clean fresh air as you step off the plane. After clearing customs and visa control, an arrival transfer will take you to Thimphu, where we'll be met by our local CEO who will conduct a welcome meeting and orientation.
Additional Notes:
Approx. Altitude: Paro 2,300m
Included Activities:
Arrival Day and Welcome Meeting
Private Vehicle
Board a private vehicle and transfer from Paro to Thimphu.
Private Vehicle (1.50-2.00 hours)
Day 2: Thimphu/Punākha (1B, 1L, 1D)
After breakfast, drive through dense forests of blue pine, oak, and rhododendrons and enjoy views of the Himalayan range and the valley beyond. After a lunch stop, the road climbs steeply through a forest of pine and cedar, festooned with hanging lichen high up near Dochula pass at 3,050m (10,007 ft). After stopping here for tea and panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range, we descend along a series of hairpin bends to the fertile valley of Punakha.
Additional Notes:
Approx. Altitude: Punakha Valley 1,300m
Included Activities:
Meet a Buddhist Monk
Chime Lhakhang Visit
Private Vehicle (6.00-7.00 hours)
Day 3: Punākha (1B, 1L, 1D)
Visit Punakha Dzong, winter seat of the Je Khenpo and the Monk Body, located between the rivers of the Mo (female) Chu and Pho (male) Chu. Hike to Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery and observe this complex of mediation and traditional arts training center for nuns.
Walk back to the road and then drive a short distance to Wangdue for a visit to the Wangdue Phodrang. We'll continue on to the suspension bridge and hike through rice terraces, fields, and deep pine forest to Khamsum Yueley Chorten, where the view is superb. Descend until we reach the suspension bridge and the return to the hotel.
Additional Notes:
Wangdue Phodrang is currently under reconstruction, depending on the status, we may or may not be able to visit.
Included Activities:
Punakha Dzong Visit
Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery
Wangdue Phodrang Visit
Hike and Visit Khamsum Yueley Chorten
Private Vehicle (6.00 hour(s))
Day 4: Punākha/Gangtey Gonpa (1B, 1L, 1D)
Visit the Crane Information Center and learn about the Gangtey/Phobjikha valley which is one of the most ecologically sensitive areas in Bhutan and is known as the winter habitat for the endangered black necked cranes. Explore the Crane information Center which is managed by the RSPN (Royal Society for the Protection of Nature), an NGO striving to protect Bhutan's environment, flora, and fauna. These magnificent cranes migrate from Tibet in early November and return at the end of February.
Additional Notes:
Approx. Altitude: Gangtey Valley 2,900m
Included Activities:
Black-Necked Crane Centre Visit
Private Vehicle (3.00-4.00 hours, 78km)
Day 5: Gangtey Gonpa (1B, 1L, 1D)
The valley is also a centre for crane observation run by the RSPN (Royal Society for the Protection of Nature), an NGO striving to protect Bhutan's environment, flora, and fauna. At certain times of the year, it is possible to spot these magnificent birds.
Included Activities:
Gangtey Goempa Monastery Visit
Phobjikha and Khewa Valley Hike
Khewa Village Visit
Family Farm Meal
Private Vehicle
Day 6: Gangtey Gonpa/Thimphu (1B, 1L, 1D)
Please note that on occasion the Institute for Zorig Chusum art school is closed due to school breaks and holidays. If it is not open on the day of your visit, another activity will be arranged.
Additional Notes:
Approx. Altitude: Thimpu 2,300m
Included Activities:
Buddha Point Visit
Institute for Zorig Chusum Visit
Lecture on Gross National Happiness
Private Vehicle (3.00-4.00 hours)
Day 7: Thimphu/Haa Dzongkhag (1B, 1L, 1D)
In the morning, visit Memorial Chorten. Drive to the valley and visit Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple). In the afternoon, spend time exploring Haa town.
Additional Notes:
Approx. Altitude: Haa Valley 2,600m
Included Activities:
Haa Valley Temples and shrines
Memorial Chorten Visit
Private Vehicle (6.00-8.00 hours)
Day 8: Haa Dzongkhag/Paro (1B, 1L, 1D)
Drive to the Haa Valley, one of the most remote and sacred valleys in Bhutan via the Cheela Mountain Pass, at 3,810m (12,500 ft). Hike to Kila Goempa Nunnery which clings to a rocky cliff. Later, visit Kyichu Lhakhang Temple and the local archery grounds.
Additional Notes:
Approx. Altitude: Paro 701m (2,300 ft)
Included Activities:
Kyichu Lhakhang Temple Visit
Kila Goempa Nunnery Hike
Local Archery Grounds Visit
Private Vehicle (2.00-3.00 hours, 65km)
Day 9: Paro (1B, 1L, 1D)
Embark on a vigorous hike up to the Taktsang monastery (Tiger's Nest), the most venerated pilgrim site of the Himalayan world. The view is absolutely stunning, with the monastery clinging to a cliff face towering 2,953m (9,688 ft) above the valley. Return to Paro and visit the ruins of the Drukgyal Dzong fortress.
Additional Notes:
Due to the altitude this climb can be tough. Be prepared to spend about 5 1/2 hours to get up and down with stops, including lunch. Remember to stay hydrated and take your time.
The hike is gradual and uphill and takes about 2 hrs to reach the first stop at the cafeteria where you can enjoy views of the monastery. If you choose, you can stop here and wait for the group who choose to continue up to the Monastery.
Included Activities:
Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) Monastery Hike
Drukgyal Dzong Visit
Private Vehicle
Day 10: Paro (1B)
Depart at any time. Airport transfer included.
Private Vehicle (0.50 hour(s))


text:
Consumer lender receives Oklahoma Bankers Association distinction.
TULSA, Okla. – Megan Boyd, a consumer lender with Arvest Bank, has been named an Oklahoma Bankers Association (OBA) 2016 Consumer Lending School Honor Graduate.
Boyd, who works as a consumer lender at Arvest's Wagoner branch, was recognized for her achievement by Janis Reeser, executive vice president of the OBA, during a Feb. 2 presentation.
Criteria for selection of an Honors Graduate include outstanding performance on the test, contribution to – and participation in – class, and overall personal contribution within the student body.
Additionally, Boyd has been asked to serve as an advisory member of the 2017 Consumer Lending School Board of Regents.
Submitted questions will be answered by an Arvest banker and may appear on the Arvest Blog.
All Arvest banks are Equal Housing Lenders and Member FDIC.
Investment products and services are provided by Arvest Investments, Inc., doing business as Arvest Asset Management, member FINRA/SIPC, an SEC registered investment adviser and a subsidiary of Arvest Bank. Trust services are provided by Arvest Bank. Insurance products are made available through Arvest Insurance, Inc., which is registered as an insurance agency. Insurance products are marketed through Arvest Insurance, Inc., but are underwritten by insurance companies.
Securities and Insurance Products: Not Insured by FDIC or any Federal Government Agency, May Lose Value, Not a Deposit of or Guaranteed by a Bank or any Bank Affiliate.


text:
World Series Tidbits……….The Sunday Edition
I was reading an article today where the some of the Philly fans' were tormenting the families of the Rays and a few members of this elite fraternity of boorish behavior decided to vent their comments on the pages of some of the other blogs.
First off Philly fans, I worked the Chinatown area of your city for 2 years and I do know the type of fans you have after 6 Rolling Rocks. I also know what kind of fans you are after a game in the surrounding parking lots and on the SEPTA buses' carrying all of you away from the games.
I am not going to sit here and tell you I have probably arrested a few of you near me tonight ( I have), but this doesn't mean that all Philly fans share your love for the dark side of the sport. Most of the people at the game goe for the entertainment and love of baseball.
But like any sports, there are the small gangs of fans and hooligans who can make a crowd get uptight and angry at a moments notice. I can honestly say I saw the Philly fans knock the food out of the hands of 2 Rays fans, but Phillies reps came to their rescue before I could get out of my seat. They re-furnished the food for them and walked them to their seats. theye were not hassled the rest of the night as a uniformed police officiers monitored from the top of the stairs.
Nothing the last 2 nights has diminished the way I feel about the brash minority in Philly. Because of the Eagles game earlier in the day, a few fans did double duty, both at the beer carts and at the games. This is a world stage for your city and your fans. How you use it is your own problem.
We have been called soft and lifeless as Rays fans because we have not gotten in your face or tossed food or drink your way in our home stadium. Maybe we know that the best PR is good PR. Make it a great experience to come to a game and you get more fans. Make it a hostile enviorment and you just get more fans with that mentality. By the way, remember, you come down yo OUR house for an Interleague play series next year in the middle of the week…………….See you then, come down to Section 138, I will show you some Southern hospitality, not boorish complaints and behavior.
It was pretty cool to see old Terry Bradshaw in a Rays cap on the Fox Football program right before the start of Game 4. Bradshaw has always been a favorite of mine since I played against him in the mid-80's. I remember hitting him once on a corner blitz and the guy just chuckled and picked me up and said I was like a runaway train coming in on him. Always love it when a Eastern Penn., icon puts on the cap of a Phillies rival……………….classic move on his behalf
Love the guy, and he has given me another reason to enjoy watching him and respecting him……….He is a Rays fan.
I did not get the pleasure of seeing this myself, so I have to take a fiend's Email as the proof it did happen last night. As I was sitting there freezing in my Florida Gators' sweater, I was told that Fox had the Kalas' read the starting lineup for both teams.
As Philly fans all know about Harry Kalas, their legendary voice for ions, they got their first view of the young straping lad Todd last night. Todd had the honors of introducing his hometown Rays, while Dad did the honors for the Phillies. It was a great moment in television as people got to hear both of their announcing skills and Todd's dads amazing voice.
I was told that John Buck, broadcasting the game for Fox made a comment, "If I had a voice like that I would talk to myself." about the elder Kalas' amazing persona.
Elias Sports Moments from Last Night
Joe Blanton's fifth-inning home run was the first extra-base hit of his career. Blanton is the first player in major-league history whose first extra-base hit-whether in a regular-season or a postseason game-was a World Series home run.
Ryan Howard, whose three-run home run to left field gave the Phillies a 5-1 lead in the fourth inning, has led the majors in opposite-field homers in each of the last three seasons. He hit 22 home runs to the opposite field (left or left-center) this season, six more than the MLB runner-up, Adrian Gonzalez. Only five players, Gonzalez included, hit even half as many opposite field HRs as Howard.
Scott Kazmir (24 years old), James Shields (26), Matt Garza (24), and Andy Sonnanstine (25) are the first set of four pitchers, each under the age of 27, to start for a team in a World Series since 1955, when both the Dodgers and Yankees started four pitchers who were not yet 27 years old.
Dodgers: Roger Craig (25), Billy Loes (25), Johnny Podres (23), and Karl Spooner (24).
Yankees: Whitey Ford (26), Bob Grim (25), Don Larsen (26), and Bob Turley (25).
Evan Longoria is the second rookie to go hitless in his first 16 at-bats of a World Series. The only other rookie to begin a World Series with an 0-for-16 streak was Flea Clifton of the Tigers in 1935. (Clifton was 0-for-16 for the entire series.)
2 Comments
Hi there,
Just wanted to say thanks for spreading some goodwill and saying hello on my Phillies Ballgirl blog.
I also sincerely apologize for any fans that have given any Rays fans a bad impression of the city. I hope everyone recognizes that not all Philadelphians behave that way, and that most of us would rather cheer on our team and watch some great baseball than harass a Rays fan.
For the record, I spent half an inning last night "fixing" a snapped rubberband for a young fan in a Rays jacket named Connor. He was having a blast on a night out in Philadelphia with his grandparents (as he should have).
So here's to an exciting game 5, with some great baseball, some good fun, and no stupid fan behavior!
I never have a problem promoting any team's members who show what the sport is truly all about. the Philly Ballgirls' have worked pretty hard down there on the field in the World Series.
It is sometimes not easy getting out of the way of a ball screaming down the line. You guys are the good will ambassadors of your team.
I worked in Philly for 2 years with the police department and I know what they can be, as unruly as they are good. Unfortunately I did not get to come down and say hello to any of the gilrs while I was there.
All I can say about tonight is…lucky is a fickle woman and she will reward the one she likes at the moment. So let's get set for a great Game 5 and let her decide who she likes by the 9th inning.
Rays Renegade


text:
NBN Co has signed contracts with two companies worth $180 million to build 10 satellite ground stations around Australia.
The contracts have been awarded to Perkins (WA) to build four satellite ground stations in Western Australia and to Cockram Corporation to build six satellite ground stations situated in Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia and Tasmania.
Construction on the buildings will begin early next year and be competed in 2014.
So far the locations for eight satellite ground stations have been announced, including:
• Moonyoonooka, Brown Range and Binduli in WA
• Bourke, and Woolooma (near Merimbula) in NSW
• Geeveston in Tasmania
• Ceduna in South Australia
• Roma in Queensland
In Roma, the one-storey facility will include two 13.5m wide satellite dishes on Kimbler Road in Roma, which is around 475km north-west of Brisbane, and is expected to be operational by 2015.
In Bourke, the satellite ground station will comprise a one-storey building with up to three 13m diameter satellite dishes.
In Geeveston, the ground station will be an essential transmission station to deliver the NBN to premises around Tasmania, including Port Davey, Strathgordon and Cradle Mountain, with the location chosen after consultation with Huon Valley Council and NBN Co.
Meanwhile, in Ceduna, the facility will provide the NBN to towns such as Chinta, Koonibba, Athenna and Goode in South Australia.
The satellite ground stations are being built for the NBN's Long Term Satellite Service, which will provide wholesale speeds of up to 12Mbps and will eventually replace the NBN's current 6Mbps Interim Satellite Service.
NBN Co's Long Term Satellite Service that will deliver the NBN to around 200,000 premises in rural and remote areas of Australia.
Follow Stephanie McDonald on Twitter: @stephmcdonald0
Follow Computerworld Australia on Twitter: @ComputerworldAU


text:
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text:
Plan to plant a garden full of these charming old-fashioned bloomers. True lilies are both old (namely the species lilies) and new again (there are many new cultivars and crosses). Order or buy some in late winter to plant this spring.
The lily is the queen of the garden, hands down. The intoxicating fragrance of a 'Casa Blanca' lily on a warm summer's eve drifts across the garden enticing you to linger. The fragrant 'Star Gazer' is one of the most popular lilies in flower arrangements. The tiger lily is a friendly reminder that not all lilies are proper cultivated ladies – this is the wild child in the group. The ubiquitous Easter lily graces many homes in the spring and other lilies stand in the garden towering over everything else there. The term "gilding the lily" means trying to make something more beautiful than a lily, which I believe is impossible.
'Forever Susan' lily
Many plants that have "lily" as part of their common name (such as daylily, calla lily, lily of the valley or peace lily) are not "true" lilies. True lilies belong to the genus Lilium. The bulbs are made of fleshy, overlapping scales with no protective covering.
True lilies have stiff stalks with relatively narrow strap-like leaves from top to bottom. Large, showy flowers develop at the tip of each stem. These flowers may be trumpet shaped, bowl shaped or bell shaped with reflexed petals. They might nod downward, face outward, or turn upward. Many lilies are incredibly fragrant, while others are grown for their unique color or markings. There are short ones, tall ones and many in between. There are early-, mid- and late-season plants so you can have them blooming all summer long.
Go Deep, No Bones
So how do you grow something so beautiful? Many gardeners are a bit timid when it comes to growing lilies. According to Becky Heath, of Brent and Becky's Bulbs, an online retailer at brentandbeckysbulbs.com, "I think the biggest mistake gardeners make with lilies is they don't plant them deeply enough. Of course, roots form at the base of each bulb, but on lilies, roots also form 'up the stem,' which helps to anchor the beautiful, but often heavy, flowerheads and helps keep them from falling over. I don't love seeing staked plants in the garden! Planting that deeply also helps protect the bulbs from the 'underground bulb monsters,' because we have found that they often go to whatever is the easiest food to gather. Lilies, in most soil types, ought to be planted at least 8 inches deep – in light soils, they can go even 10 inches deep. If it's impossible to plant that deeply, just build up the soil on top of the bulb once it's planted!"
Becky also notes, "Don't put bonemeal in the hole, because it isn't as nutritious as it was during our parents' time, and it attracts rodents and dogs, who love to dig up the bulbs searching for the 'bones'!" She suggests using a bulb fertilizer such as Bulb-Tone when planting, and in the spring use a phosphorus-rich formula such as 5-10-10.
Lilium 'Manisa'
Plant in Sunny, Dry 'Bouquets'
For best effect, plant lilies in groups of three or five bulbs. Space the bulbs 8-12 inches apart depending on the size of the bulb. Divide and replant large clusters of bulbs every three years, or when it seems they are not blooming as well as when they were first planted.
Never plant lilies where water collects after heavy rainfall. Well-drained soil is an absolute must. Add lots of organic matter to clay soils to improve drainage.
Lilies are pretty much a carefree plant, with just a few exceptions. Botrytis is a fungal disease that causes reddish spots on the leaves. This can be caused by overhead watering, not enough sunlight and poor air circulation.
Lilies need a minimum of six hours a day of direct sunlight and eight hours is better. Squirrels, mice and voles can dig up the bulbs and eat them; rabbits, groundhogs and deer prefer to eat the stalks and flowers. Spraying liquid repellent on the foliage is usually enough to deter them, because by the time it wears off, more desirable food is available.
The red lily beetle can sometimes be a serious problem on lilies.
Clockwise: This 'Casa Blanca' lily was crossed with another variety naturally. • Lily 'Muscadet' • Martagon lily 'Sutton Court'
Lily Classifications
Division 1: Hybrids of Asiatic species such as Lilium davidii
Orientals and Aurelian/Trumpet lilies are among the most fragrant, but with new breeding techniques other lilies are being grown with fragrance. Orientals and Aurelian/Trumpets are also some of the tallest lilies, some reaching 7 feet tall when mature. Asiatics tend to be shorter and earlier blooming, and Martagon lilies are those little delicate bell-like flowers that hang in great quantities.
If you want to grow lilies for bouquets, you should grow several bulbs and plant them in succession every year. Cutting the lilies reduces their vigor for the following year, so you should cut from one bed where you are doing the succession planting. Many people who use them for cut flowers also have two beds, one for enjoying them and the other for cutting them.
You can also propagate your own lilies by a couple of methods. One is to remove the stem bulbils as they dry at the leaf axils and insert them in to bulb pans filled with a well-draining but moist potting mix, covering them with some grit. Place them in a cold frame until young bulbs develop – then you can plant them in the garden. You can also lift the dead bulb and stem after flowering and remove the bulblets and replant them (at twice their depth) in the same type of bulb pan and you can plant them out in the garden.
When purchasing bulbs, always purchase fresh bulbs and plant them immediately or they will shrivel and die.
If you plant many different kinds of lilies in your flowerbeds, you will be rewarded in the garden for many years to come.
A version of this article appeared in a January/February 2015 print edition of State-by-State Gardening.
Photography courtesy of Denise Schreiber and Brent and Becky's Bulbs.