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Archive for KwaZulu Natal
Fugitives Drift Lodge Offering The Best Zulu Battlefield EncounterPosted by: | Comments
Fugitives Drift was started by David Rattray together with his wife Nicky and built an excellent lodge for travellers to indulge in this fantastic story. Sadly, in January 2007, David was killed by an intruder but Fugitives Drift is a wonderful legacy to something he created with his wife Nicky and it still remains today. Rob Caskie has taken over as the primary historian. Like David, Rob speaks fluent Zulu, understands the history thoroughly and is probably the best story teller I've ever heard.
The two battles I was focused on were the battle at Isandlwana when the Zulu army wiped out about 1,300 British soldiers on 22nd January 1879. Later on that day, a lesser force of Zulus who had missed out on the fighting at Isandlwana, sought their opportunity so against orders, they attacked Rorke's Drift. The defensive action is now down in the history of the British Army as amongst it's most amazing battles which saw eleven Victoria Crosses awarded. Under 140 British troopers battled with about 4,000 Zulus in a battle that went on all night.
My stay at Fugitives Drift started with the afternoon trip to the Rorke's Drift site. It's a few miles from the Lodge and we started off going round the museum that was hospital building at the time of the battle. As with most battlefield museums, there were several artefacts from the battle (rifles, bullets, buckles, spears etc) yet the most striking item I found was a model of the battlefield. It presented the latter phases of the battle when the hospital had been cleared out and the soldiers were defending the store behind their piles of mealie sacks. The model showed a small number of red coated troops surrounded on all sides by Zulu warriors several deep and this was the very first occasion I'd really been able to visualise the battle properly. All of the films and images I've seen in were generally close ups with a few people however this model gave a comprehensive impression that was quite frankly, astonishing.
To allow travellers picture the layout, there are lines of stones marking where the defensive lines had been. Rob began the tale describing what Rorke's Drift was and the reasons why it had been attacked. He made you recognise there was clearly so much more to the fight than only a fight between black and white, British redcoat in opposition to Zulu warrior. Overall, the trip was approximately 3 hours and all of us simply sat listening to this wonderful story teller recounting the incidents of 22nd January 1879.
Back at the lodge, I freshened up in my wonderful room. It really was a shame I couldn't spend longer in the room since it was so comfy but it was time for beverages just ahead of dinner so I made my way to the dining room. The room is like a museum with pictures, flags, notes, firearms and a lot more covering the walls. The food itself was fantastic. Everybody staying at the Lodge sat around the same table. It was a really satisfying evening but an early start the following day meant it wouldn't be a late night.
My 6:30am alarm call was a nice hot pot of tea being brought to my room (its wonderful to see a few British traditions still live on). We'd a good hot breakfast before leaving for the morning excursion of Isandlwana. The battlefield is over the Buffalo river and our guide was a Zulu called Joseph. This was a very different battleground to Rorke's Drift. The battle occurred on a massive plain in the shadow of a mountain and so the orientation took much longer as we first visited the museum ahead of being sent to the hill from where the Zulu commanders were standing 129 years earlier. Our group moved on to the battlefield itself and parked up. Now the talk would be a couple of hours consequently there were deck chairs that we took up the mountain to a vantage point that gave us a tremendous view of the battlefield. Bear in mind, the altitude was about a mile above sea level and so it wasn't the easiest climb I'd ever attempted.
Joseph, like Rob gave us a fascinating lecture and genuinely made it easier for us imagine the scene. Next he said that despite the fact that he was a Zulu, he wasn't there to offer 'their side of the story', he planned to give us the reality on what took place, sometimes in quite graphic detail. At the appropriate times, he would echo the Zulu shouts that had been made way back in 1879 and as his voice echoed all around us, it added even more realism to the setting. The tale was fantastic. We listened to Joseph recited what was happening and my eyes wandered around the scenery which was full of piles of white stones. These heaps of stones are the resting places of the British soldiers who are buried where the died. Every stack of stones represented 6-8 men with the exception of two substantial piles that were for as many as 40 men. The hard African soil meant it was nearly impossible to dig anything but shallow graves for the men and pile stones on them.
Immediately after the talk was over, we had time to stroll round a number of the graves and memorials at Isandlwana before going back again for lunch. This was an amazing destination and I almost certainly could have done with having an extra day as there is a Zulu village to take a trip to not to mention the walk down to the Buffalo river where Lieutenants Melvill and Coghill died saving the Queen's Colour of their regiment and years later became the first men to be posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross.
There was a time that when a white man in car was seen in this place, it usually meant they were lost. Today, it has an industry based on the work David and Nicky Rattray began meaning there is a huge interest in those battles between the army of the biggest Empire the planet has ever seen and the very best warriors Africa has ever produced.
Pietermaritzburg's Rural Charm and Culture in KwaZulu NatalPosted by: | Comments
Pietermaritzburg is really a continuously changing metropolis which has in recent times experienced quick growth although it has always been a focus for quite a few sight-seeing opportunities and recreation. It's the host city for global events including the Comrades and Dusi Marathaons that happen to be believed to be amongst the top running events across the world. The Midmar Mile swimming event possesses the greatest open water field of its kind around the globe. The dam at which the event takes place likewise presents ample other interests all year long. Holiday accommodation at Midmar are usually provided at attractive shoreline camp sites, bungalows or a bush camp.
The Midlands is really a well known region in KwaZulu Natal. It is a warm and welcoming place has its simple origins in 1985, when a little band of crafters came together to create an art and craft route that holds the leading culture attraction on Pietermaritzburg and the Midlands called the Midlands Meander. It's evolved into an exciting network of 134 members, some of local extraction, plus some that have turned their backs on the town to make their living in this amazing setting.
The Midlands Meander, that offers fabulous variety, value and superb service at numerous farms, hotels, guest houses, bed & breakfasts and spas, scattered along a well-marked corridor. In existence for more than 20 years, this craft and leisure self-drive journey is definitely amongst the country's more successful luring regular return tourists to its unique and special atmosphere. Cheese farms with quaint goat's towers, a mini-beer brewery, award-winning pottery studios, butterfly research projects, brilliantly coloured herbal centres and leatherworks all give quality products manufactured with a personal touch.
Hot air ballooning affords the exhilaration option of seeing the attractions of the Midlands from a different viewpoint. Howick is a pleasant historical town close to Pietermaritzburg which features the spectacular 97m high Howick Falls. Nearby is a monument which marks the place at which Nelson Mandela was caught ahead of his imprisonment on Robben Island.
This is only a sample of what is offered as the Pietermarizburg Midlands in KwaZulu Natal offers a galaxy of visitors attractions as diverse and abundant as the ample stars in the gloriously clear night skies making it the appropriately billed "Capital of the Zulu Kingdom".
The Northern Coast of KwaZulu NatalPosted by: | Comments
KwaZulu Natal's North Coastline, popularly referred to as The Dolphin Coast, stretches from Zimbali, an eco and golf estate to the grand Tugela River. Its balmy oceans are home to the common bottlenose dolphin which is often found frolicking in the surf close offshore all year round, whilst the tropical, rich coastline features a great many remote bays, golden shores and beautiful homes.
Sections of natural coastal forest give way to never-ending rolling hillsides covered with fields of sugar cane, which stretch out to the interior. A distinctive mixture of luxurious resorts and reasonably priced holiday lodgings complement eye-catching beaches and culturally diverse attractions to make this holiday location a glittering jewel.
The North Coast presents truly living Zulu Culture, bursting colour, song and dance. On 24th September every year, this holiday destination comes to life to celebrate Heritage Day in a special way. This day reminds the Zulu nation of their unique history and the importance of leadership. The participants are usually seen clad in their customary attire exhibiting their origins.
The North Shoreline also boasts a rich cultural blend of Eastern, African and European influences where curry seafood dens stand next to traditional Zulu dancing and colonial-style hospitality as the primary sight-seeing opportunities. Situated just a little inland is KwaDukuza, burial site of the remarkable King Shaka Zulu, and Groutville, home of Albert Luthuli, Africa's first Nobel Peace laureate, with monuments and an intriguing museum bearing testimony to his part in South Africa's historical past.
A sizeable Indian local community sees their home in this region, allowing visitors to take pleasure in their amazing temples and sample their culinary pleasures, such as pineapple-on-a-stick, covered in tangy seasoning. River quad biking trails, horse riding, a sugar cane farm museum, children's Animal farm and crocodile farms all vie for space on the leisure calender.
Coastal microlight excursions, superb fishing and the possibility to swim with the dolphins add to the extensive selection of unforgettable holiday activities available. Close proximity to Durban and the Big Five game reserves of KwaZulu Natal make this holiday destination a amazing choice for a holiday central to infectious vibe or rugged adventure – simply take your pick.
Drakensberg Mountains – Cleopatras Mountain Farm House RetreatPosted by: | Comments
Nestled away in the stunning Drakensberg mountain range in the Kamberg Valley near Giant's Castle, you will discover Cleopatras Mountain Farmhouse. This outstanding Gourmet mountain lodge is 200km from Durban airport and 450km from Johannesburg airport. I drove there from Johannesburg and the trip took me about five hours down the N3 toll road before turning off at Mooi River. From there, it was less than 30 miles and even though the directions were very good, it is better to make this part of the journey by daylight to make it simpler to pick up the landmarks that are referenced in the map.
In the end, I showed up but because it was dark, I was not able to thoroughly appreciate the beauty of its position until the following day. I'd also appeared far too late for the six course evening meal which was a pity. You will find eleven rooms at Cleopatras and every one is unique. I was checked into room two, the Scandinavian suite and it was eye-catching and fairly spacious. It had been a long day and so I soon found myself in my bed that had been warmed by an electric quilt and went to sleep.
I got up early on as I had a long drive to the Zulu Battlefields ahead of me but first of all I wanted to have a look round. The early morning mist hung about the surrounding mountains and I could very well see what a picturesque spot it was. I made my way to the breakfast area where a wonderful three course meal was served to set me up nicely for the busy day ahead. The chef at Cleopatras preps his meals with flavour as his primary aim and I have to say that I wasn't let down. Actually, I don't remember the last occasion I was offered such a great breakfast.
Next there was time for a quick trip up to the top of the mountain though the view would be limited. Even so, it was clear enough to see that for anybody wanting to spend some time out-of-doors and take pleasure in terrific food, Cleopatras is highly recommended as a place in the UKlahlamba Drakensberg to escape to for a few days. Activities include things like trekking in the Highmoor Nature Reserve, horseback riding, horse stud trips & local adventures, fishing, helicopter rides, Bushman rock art, Crane rehabilitation centre.
If you want to head out driving during the day, there are in excess of 180 visits along the Midlands Meander from wood turners, to potters, to cheesemakers, to weevers and much more.
KwaZulu Natal HighlightsPosted by: | Comments
KZN is a densely populated province of South Africa. It's really an enticing sub-tropical area with wonderful scenery and popular points of interest like the outstanding beaches of Durban, the Drakensberg mountains and the famous battlefields from the wars among the British, Boers and Zulus.
The population of KwaZulu Natal is just about the most diverse in the country. The indigenous Zulu culture of the area is well recognised for their famous warrior custom. Even today, in the phonetic alphabet, "Zulu" is used to represent the letter "Z".
Generally there is a distinct British influence in the province and various of the people who reside here have a British heritage. On top of that, in Durban you will also see without doubt one of the biggest populations of Indians outside of the sub-continent. Durban is also South Africa's third largest metropolis and is the busiest port in Africa. The fabulous weather makes Durban a well known holiday destination all year long and following the accomplishment of the FIFA World Cup, Durban will almost definitely bid to host the 2020 Olympics.
For all those checking out KZN, Durban is a 'must' with so much to offer the tourist including markets, culture, shores and the newly opened uShaka Marineworld. It's also a fine base from where you're able to check out the region. Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve is the recommended spot to go on safari while the UKlahlamba mountains feature serenity and tranquillity in spectacular surroundings.
Tourists will discover Zulu culture in evidence right across the province and there are lots of opportunities to go to see traditional Zulu villages. There are close to four hundred miles of coastline in KwaZulu Natal with the place in the north of the province being especially unspoilt. The St Lucia Wetlands are a World Heritage Site with perfect lakes, estuaries, lagoons, woodland dunes and coral reefs.
The battlefields of KwaZulu Natal are well known with definitely the most commonly known spot being Rorkes Drift where only 140 British soldiers held off a prolonged attack by 4,000 Zulus.
Eventually, the Midlands Meander is a route for tourists to travel along stopping off at numerous craft shops, studios, galleries and a lot more established in the heart of the impressive UKlahlamba mountain range.
Frank Bourne Rorkes Drift HeroPosted by: | Comments
The Battle of Rorkes Drift is certainly one of the most popular battles in the past of the British army. It was at this little mission station near the border of Zululand and Natal where a few thousand Zulu warriors attacked the garrison of around 140 British soldiers. The soldiers fought for their lives all night and by morning, the Zulus had withdrawn. The highest award for gallantry from the British Army is the Victoria Cross and the defence of Rorkes Drift saw twelve VCs awarded, greater than in any other single action in history.
The fight was portrayed in the Stanley Baker movie "Zulu" and one of several leading characters who acted with distinction at Rorkes Drift, in the end failed to receive a Victoria Cross. Colour Sergeant Frank Bourne was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal that is ranked second behind the Victoria Cross. In addition, Bourne was also offered a commission although he turn it down. As Bourne was the eighth son in his family, there was no money on hand and this would have been a time when wealth was used to buy commissions for officers with the British Army.
Having said that, Bourne was destined to be a career soldier and an excellent one too. Following South Africa, he was posted to India and Burma prior to eventually earning his commission eleven years following the Battle of Rorkes Drift. He at long last retired from the British Army in 1907. Only seven years afterwards, The Great War broke out and Bourne re-enlisted in the army. By the conclusion of the Great War in 1918, Bourne had been promoted to the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel and was made an OBE. Bourne left the military again, now for ever.
Due to the actor who portrayed Bourne in the motion picture Zulu, several people considered Frank Bourne to have been in his mid-50s during the time of the Battle of Rorkes Drift but in reality he was simply 24 years old. Just after the end of The Great War, he lived in retirement in Beckenham, South London and he was the final survivor of Rorkes Drift to pass away at the age of 91 on 8th May 1945, the very day the Second World War in Europe came to an end.
The Martini Henry Rifle That Rescued The Soldiers At Rorkes DriftPosted by: | Comments
The Battle of Rorkes Drift is certainly one of the more famous battles in the records belonging to the British Army. On 22 January 1879, only hours soon after the Zulu success at Isandlwana, about 4,000 Zulu warriors assault the mission station at Rorkes Drift located along the Buffalo River in Natal.
With no more than 140 men defending Rorkes Drift, you would be pardoned for saying the British had little prospect of survival, especially taking into consideration what happened to their colleagues at Isandlwana. Yet, together with being very brave troops, the defenders of Rorkes Drift were in possession of a rifle that would provide them with an edge over the Zulus. That weapon was the Martini Henry rifle.
This .45 calibre rifle was proficient at inflicting nasty wounds and when fired at a range of below 200 yards, a round could possibly easily go through a body injuring the man behind too. The Martini Henry was a single shot, breech loading rifle and presented the British a huge advantage over the Zulus who were only carrying their short stabbing spears (iklaws).
Though the Martini Henry was at fault in part of the disaster at Isandlwana, when correctly looked after, it had been a superb weapon. To single the rifle out as the cause for the defeat at Isandlwana is harsh as there were many other factors which contributed to the defeat.
At Rorkes Drift, the Martini Henry was vital to the British. As a store, there was clearly a good amount of ammunition together with extra rifles plus the defensive area was much smaller and for that reason was less of a challenge to defend ın comparison to the position at Isandlwana. Introduced to the British Army in 1871, the Martini Henry could well fire up to ten rounds per minute in the possession of the skilled soldier. The rifle possessed a highly effective range of in excess of 500m which resulted in providing the British could identify the Zulu warriors, they could very well start eliminating them long before they got near enough for hand to hand fighting.
Regardless of the over-bearing odds at Rorkes Drift, the British only lost roughly 10% of their strength while at the same time, they laid to rest nearly four hundred Zulus and it was believed a similar number might have later died of their wounds. The British had fought off the Zulu attack and were thankful to the Martini Henry rifle.
Rorke's Drift – The Heroic Defence of the Tiny GarrisonPosted by: | Comments
Rorke's Drift lies 46 km southeast of Dundee and is the location of certainly one of the most celebrated battles of the Anglo-Zulu war of 1879. The area near to Rorke's Drift is unspoilt and restful. Irishman James Rorke initially established a trading place around 1 mile from the drift (crossing point) on the Buffalo River and had been recognized by the Zulu warriors as KwaJimu (Jim's place). Later on, a mission station had been set up by the Reverend Otto Witt from the Swedish Missionary Society. He established a compact church, mission house and livestock kraal at the foot of a rugged mountain that he called Oskarberg.
Lord Chelmsford, had 'requisitioned' the property prior to his traversing of the Buffalo River. He utilised the house as an infirmary and the chapel for a storehouse. During the combat it had been employed as a surgery. The defence of Rorke's Drift rapidly followed the British Army's defeat at the Battle of Isandlwana earlier on the morning of 22nd January 1879. The devastating Zulu assault on Rorke's Drift came rather near to defeating the small garrison, and the British accomplishment is held as undoubtedly one of history's best defensive actions. The 11 VCs awarded for valour at Rorke's Drift continue to be more than for any other military action of all time.
As Lord Chelmsford, the commander-in-chief of the British military in Natal, invaded Zululand on 11th January 1879, his forces encamped on the opposite side of the Buffalo river, 16km to the east, under the mountain at Isandhlwana. Three columns invaded Zululand, from the Lower Tugela, Rorke's Drift and Utrecht respectively, their mission being Ulundi, the Royal capital of the Zulu people. On 9 January 1879 the middle column under the command of Lord Chelmsford arrived and made camp at Rorke's Drift.
On the morning of 22nd January 1879, the main Zulu army assaulted the British camp at Isandlwana. Lord Chelmsford had taken some of his force off in a different course in search of the Zulu army. Hopelessly outnumbered, the British and local forces were slaughtered by the Zulus which saw only roughly 50 men escape with their lives. The vast majority of the 1,000 strong force were killed. Later that day, 4,500 zulu warriors led by Dabulamanzi attacked the little garrison manned by 24th Regiment at Rorke's Drift. These Zulus had not been involed in the action at Isandlwana and needed to prove their courage in battle. Cetshwayo had explicitly instructed his Zulu warriors not to cross the Buffalo River which was the border amongst Natal and Zululand. Despite this order, the Zulus grabbed the guns off the corpses of the British dead and headed to Rorke's Drift. It was manned by 97 ready troops, housed 36 wounded, 14 helpful natives, 5 officers and 2 lieutenants, one of which was fresh to the area. The Battle of Isandlwana was arguably the most humiliating defeat in British colonial heritage and only hours later, at Rorke's Drift, 139 British troops successfully defended their position from an intensive attack by over four thousand Zulu warriors.
Something that is regularly overlooked is that the Battle at Rorke's Drift may perhaps have resulted in a similar terrible way as Isandlawana, but for just one key factor: Rorke's Drift was a supply depot, which means the British troops who defended it were able to depend on a huge source of ammo. It's estimated that somewhere between 20,000 and 25,000 rounds were shot throughout the defence of Rorke's Drift, the vast majority of the shots having missed their targets altogether therefore, conservatively speaking, each 25th shot fired by the defenders of Rorke's Drift led to an eventual Zulu death, and each 50th shot was an outright kill. The British knew the Zulus were approaching however they decided to stand and fight. Injured men would had to have been laden onto horse-drawn wagons and Zulus would easily have caught them in the open. They decided to fight on ground of their choosing.
Together with having numbers that crushed a force 5 times that size hours earlier, the Zulu warriors now had the Martini-Henry rifles captured from the British dead, presenting them an even bigger advantage against the British.
Henry Hook plus 5 other privates were ordered on the afternoon of 22nd January to protect approximately thirty people not able to be moved from the temporary infirmary at Rorke's Drift station. Lines of defence were constructed to connect the 2 structures and the hospital and the store room. Inside of this perimeter, an inner line of defence was built between the 2 complexes and this proved significant in the battle. The Zulu warriors attacked the hospital setting fire to the roof. Hook and others struggled for hours, basically digging through walls and in the end getting nearly all out of the infirmary across to the inner defensive line near the store. Wave upon wave of Zulus armed with spears and rifles crashed against the makeshift defences at Rorke's Drift. The struggles raged all night and in the morning the British defences still held strong and the Zulus eventually pulled back.
Following seeing the aftermath of Isandlwana, Chelmsford believed that Rorke's Drift had suffered the same fate and it was only the sound of cheering from the mission station persuaded him otherwise. eleven VC's were awarded to the defenders of Rorke's Drift. Colour Sergeant Frank Bourne was among five men to be awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal and the unusual honour of a commission. Nevertheless, his army pay was his only source of income had he thought he couldn't financially afford to become an officer hence declined the offer. Fittingly, he was the final survivor of Rorke's Drift to pass away on 8th May 1945 and VE Day. Lieutenant-Colonel Frank Edward Bourne OBE, DCM was 91 years old.
Review of the Video "Zulu"Posted by: | Comments
The 1964 motion picture "Zulu" tells the story from the defence of Rorke's Drift by the tiny garrison of British troopers who had been assaulted by over four thousand Zulu warriors. The troopers kept the attackers at bay as the conflicts raged through the night of 22/23 Jan 1879. In the morning, the Zulus had stopped the assault.
The movie stars Stanley Baker as well as Michael Caine together with Richard Burton narrating and was a follow up to "Zulu Dawn". That movie covered the story of the Battle of Isandlwana that took place earlier that day. The opening scenes start with the consequences of Isandlwana while Richard Burton narrates the telegram by Lord Chelmsford informing the government of the destruction of Isandlwana. Zulus are shown accumulating weapons belonging to the dead British soldiers.
At the time of the battle, Rorke's Drift was a mission station looked after by Swedish missionary Otto Witt. While Lord Chelmsford guided the men over the Buffalo River and over into Zululand from Natal, a company in the 24th Regiment were left at the mission station that was used as a clinic and a supply depot by the British. The 2 officers were Lieutenant John Chard from the Royal Engineers played by Stanley Baker and Lieutenant Gonville Bromhead of the 24th performed by Michael Caine. This was Caine's 1st starring role.
The movie shows Chard and a few troops building a bridge over the Buffalo River. Bromhead comes back from a hunting trip and the two chat briefly just before scouts arrive updating them of the catastrophe at Isandlwana. Chard is seen to assume overall command as he was commissioned just a few months earlier than Bromhead and whilst this is procedure, it irks Bromhead. They talk over their possible choices with Lieutenant Joseph Ardendorff from the Natal Native Contingent (NNC) who was just one of the very few survivors from Isandlwana. Ardendorff is played by Gert Van den Bergh. The Afrikanner describes the Zulu "Horns of the Buffalo" battle tactics. Bromhead thinks they should evacuate yet Chard makes a decision to stand and fight on ground of their choosing.
The Reverand Otto Witt and his adult daughter also are in the mission station and try to have the soldiers to flee so they can avert a fight. Witt persuaded troops with the NNC to abandon Rorke's Drift. After all this, Chard instructs Witt and his daughter to leave the mission station in their carriage. At the same time, protective lines of mealie bags and wagons are now being positioned to improve the defences by connecting the store room and the hospital. This is completed under the watch of CSM Frank Bourne portrayed by Nigel Green.
As the Zulu warriors approached, Boer horsemen show up at Rorke's Drift. Notwithstanding pleas from Chard, the Boers get away from the British garrison. Before long the attack begins with lines of Zulu warriors facing up to the British . The warriors are cut down by concentrated fire from the soldiers of the 24th and they in due course fall back. Following that, Zulu riflemen in the hills launch firing directly into the mission station and the British suffer their very first dead and injured.
The Zulus keep probing with their assaults and in the end get into the infirmary, setting fire to the roof in the process. Private Henry Hook, who has so far been portrayed as a good for nothing layabout, just takes charge of the situation inside the hospital and he assists with an escape of the sick by hacking through the walls of the hospital. The remaining soldiers escape the burning infirmary over to the final redoubt near the store house as the battles raged into the night.
By morning, the Zulus commenced a war cry ready for a last offensive. The troopers of the 24th reacted by singing "Men of Harlech". The final offensive see the Zulu warriors charge into a hail of British bullets as three ranks of soldiers fire volley upon volley straight into the onrushing Zulu warriors. With such serious losses, the Zulus finally pull back. The British begin to regroup and CSM Bourne carries out a role call. The Zulus come back on the hills overlooking the mission station however as an alternative to attacking, they sing in salute of the "fellow warriors".
The picture finishes with Richard Burton narrating. He reads out the names of the eleven men who were awarded the Victoria Cross for the defence of Rorke's Drift. The men who won the VC were:
– Corporal William Wilson Allen
– Lieutenant Gonville Bromhead
– Lieutenant John Rouse Merriot Chard
– Acting Assistant Commissary James Langley Dalton
– Private Fredrick Hitch
– Private Alfred Henry Hook
– Private Robert Jones
– Private William Jones
– Surgeon Major James Henry Reynolds
– Corporal Christian Ferdinand Schiess
– Private John Williams
On top of that, five men were also awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal:
– Colour Sergeant Frank Bourne
– Private John William Roy
– Second Corporal Michael McMahon
– Second Corporal Francis Attwood
– Wheeler John Cantwell
As with most films based mostly on a true experience, there are plenty of discrepancies. A few are for artistic licence though others will be oversights for various other reasons.
The motion picture shows the 24th Regiment of Foot as a Welsh regiment. Although, it was not renamed the South Wales Borderers until 1881, two years after Rorke's Drift. There was a significant number (approximately 25%) of men from Wales in B Company, 2nd Battalion, 24th (2nd Warwickshire) Regiment of Foot but the largest percentage were from England.
The Swedish missionary Otto Witt was shown in the picture that his daughter was an adult. Bear in mind, his 2 kids were both infants. Additionally he was not the pacifist the motion picture indicates and had made it clear he did not oppose the British involvement with Cetshawayo.
The British rifles were the Martini-Henry which discharged a sizeable .45 round. It was quite capable of causing enormous injury on the human body. In the film, the injuries on shot Zulu warriors are tiny. In one scene in the hospital, a warrior who was fighting hand to hand with Private Hook was shot in the back and Hook was uninjured. At such close range, the round from the Martini-Henry would have easily gone through the Zulu and killed Hook too.
These days, Rorke's Drift is a tourist location for those who really want to learn more about the Anglo Zulu War of 1879.
The Tales of the KwaZulu Natal BattlefieldsPosted by: | Comments
For almost the entire of the nineteenth century, several of the bloodiest struggles known to man were conducted among Zulu, Briton and Boer for the control of the land and sovereignty. Most of these were concentrated in an immense battleground that stretches from the Drakensberg Mountains, north to Volksrust and east into Zululand, embracing plains of exceptional natural beauty that offer considerably more than simply just renowned battlefield locations to the guest.
It is really difficult to comprehend that this scenic and now tranquil land once rang with the brutal conflict. Instead, the hills, valleys and ridges now echo with the call of wildlife, an amazing array of birdlife or are just breathtakingly peaceful, making it possible for visitors to take in the undeniable ambiance.
From simple, secure camp sites to exclusive private game ranches, lodging is on the market to fulfill every taste, standard and budget, as well as several activities as wide as the plains for which the area is well known. White water rafting, mountain biking, abseiling, 4×4 trails, horse riding and hiking are some of the possible choices available to the more adventurous, whereas those trying to find other pastimes can indulge in a game of golf at numerous 9 and 18-hole courses, casino thrills or the chance to check out their fishing skills.
The rugged beauty of the landscape is marked with reminders of the violent history, particularly haunting memorials on the plains of Isandlwana, where the Zulu army demolished over 1,000 British soldiers, gravestones at Fort Pearson and the monument at Spion Kop, without doubt one of the most violent conflicts of the Anglo-Boer War.
The site of the well known Battle of Blood River involving Voortrekker and Zulu is home to the Ncome Museum, where the historical past of the Zulu people is documented. The museum and authentic laager reconstruction memorial provide a fascinating alternative interpretation of the battle, in both their accounts recorded and in the style by which they commemorate those who fought here. The site of the Battle of Rorke's Drift among the British and Zulu is much the same since that bloody encounter with stone walls erected to defend the British still largely intact.
Lots of monuments and well-preserved artifacts give a superb backdrop to an area where re-enactments of the Colonial-era wars involving British troops and Zulu warriors, make it easy for present day tourists to discover the bloody dramas with practically frightening reality. Trained guides bring their own personal touch in terms of detail, emotion and anecdotal interest to the battles in contrast to the nearly always stark visual landscape.


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Diddy Throws His Hat In For The Carolina Panthers
The Carolina Panthers after a rough start of the season look like they are going to be heading to the playoffs. Good news for the Panthers as a team, but a grey cloud looms over them as their owner Jerry Richardson finds himself on the bad end of the rising trend of sexual harassment cases surfacing. This put him in the situation of announcing that he will be putting the Carolina Panthers up for sale. The fact that the Panthers are one of the hottest teams in the NFL, with one of the most marketable QBs under center, of course it would bring a lot of interest.
Yesterday I talked about how Vince McMahon bringing back the XFL was a good move. Now think if fresh new blood came in as an owner in the NFL, and guess what new blood took to the internet first to throw his hat in the ring, P. Diddy himself. Even though he did not realize it is the Carolina Panthers, representing both north and south, not just the north. He brought to the table of bringing in Colin Kaepernick in to compete for a job in the NFL. Even though Kap would not win a starting job over Cam, he would be a great back up for Cam and even more trouble for opposing teams. Just think, Cam goes down but still have to deal with Kap who basically has the same style.
Right now they are saying the team could go for 2.5 billion to 2.8 billion dollars, which Richardson when he purchased the team was only for 206 million. Well Diddy seems to have a couple of people interested in helping him with this purchase. So all we can do is wait and see how this plays out.

subset: commoncrawl


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Do you have an attic in your San Diego home? If so, is it sealed, insulated, and ventilated? If it isn't, this unassuming space may be wasting your heating and cooling dollars. Here's why, and how to prevent it.
Your attic, at the top of your home, is part of your thermal envelope — the interface between your home's temperature and the outside world. Direct sunlight on the roof during the hot summer months causes heat to radiate down into the attic, whose enclosed air can heat well beyond the outdoor air temperature. In turn, that heat can radiate down into the rest of your home, causing your air conditioner to work harder to keep you cool. During the winter, by contrast, warm air rises into your attic, where heat can bleed off into the cooler outdoors, or be lost through air leaks. In either case, you're losing your energy dollars when this happens.
There are several different approaches to combating attic energy loss. Here are a few to consider:
- Seal air leaks in your attic. If your attic space is rarely used, you may not pay much attention to whether or not it has a draft, but those gaps in wall and ceiling spaces can still cost you money.
- Add insulation. Insulation isn't just something that keeps you warm in cool weather — it slows heat transfer throughout the year, which means slower heat gain in summer. That might mean the heat transfer between your attic and the outside world, or between the rest of your house and the attic.
- Add ventilation. San Diego's hot summers can make attic spaces dangerously overheated. Even just pushing out the stale air and bringing fresh air in from outside can cool things down to a safe range.
- Add a radiant barrier. These light-weight solutions deflect the heat of the sun — which can offer major benefits in Southern California's climate.
If you want to discover how you can manage your attic space for greater savings and home comfort, call us at Sherlock Plumbing, Heating & Air today!


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Power Stone - The Last Battlefield (DVD 6 of 6)
Title: Power Stone - The Last Battlefield
Volume: DVD 6 / 6
Running time: 125
Distributor: ADV Films
Release date: 2002-07-02
Suggested retail price: $19.98
Age rating: NR
When two of the mysterious and magical Power Stones are stolen, young
adventurer Edward Falcon sets out to warn his friends Wang Tang and Gunrock.
His warning arrives too late, however, as dark hands of magic are already
circling around our intrepid heroes. Mysterious apparitions begin to attack
Edward and his friends-monsters that somehow seem connected to his idol, the
fighter Valgas. Then, Edward discovers the terrible secret behind his
enemies' acquisition of the Power Stones - and you can bet it won't be
welcome news. Finally, in the terrifying Dark Land, Edward and his
combative cohorts are confronted with the supreme evil incarnate. You won't
believe how this one ends! Don't miss a single second of the thrilling
conclusion of Power Stone!
(added on 2002-01-19, modified on 2002-01-19)
- Encyclopedia information about Power Stone (TV)


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Pump It Up Frequently Asked Questions
Boundless Fun
We've got huge inflatable playgrounds, endless games and even a blow-up birthday throne!
100% Private
It's just you and your invited guests in our enormous bouncy house arenas and party rooms!
Completely Customized
You can tailor every detail of the party experience to make it as special as the birthday kid!
General Pump It Up FAQ
Are your inflatables safe and clean?
Absolutely! Our inflatables have been custom designed to account for heavy, indoor use. Each inflatable goes through rigorous testing for all ages before it is released to any of our facilities nationwide. At our facility, each inflatable is anchored to the floor, wall, and/or ceiling to provide extra stability. Entrances and exits are cleaned after each party. Each inflatable is deep cleaned and inspected on an ongoing maintenance schedule.
Are socks required?
Yes, socks are required to play on the inflatables.
Is each guest, including adults, required to have a completed/signed waiver?
For insurance purposes, every guest who enters our arenas must have a completed waiver. All guests under 18 years of age must have a waiver completed and signed by a parent/guardian. For your convenience, family members aged 18 years or younger may be included on the same waiver. Additional waivers are available at Pump It Up or online. For the kids safe play, we only allow kids 2-18 to play on the jumpers
Are there any age/height restrictions?
Yes. For safety purposes, children under 34 inches are NOT permitted in or on the equipment for any reason (even if accompanied by an adult).
Will Pump It Up provide supervision in the play areas?
Our fun and friendly staff will provide supervision in the inflatable play areas so you can relax and enjoy the party!
Are gratuities (tips) appropriate?
Gratuities for our staff are always appreciated.
What forms of payment are accepted?
For your convenience we accept cash, Visa & MasterCard as payment options. Sorry no checks.
What type of safety instruction is provided?
We pride ourselves on safety. To help prevent injuries, each guest is required to watch the Pump It Up safety video before entering the inflatable arena(s).
Can a guest play while wearing a cast?
no. We apologize but In the interest of safety, any guest wearing a cast or other motion limiting medical device (splint, sling, or brace) will not be permitted to participate on the inflatables. While we welcome them to attend the party and will not charge for their attendance, they will be prohibited from playing on the inflatables.
Can adults play on the inflatables?
For the safety of the kids, we only allow the kids, ages 2-18, including the birthday child, to play on the jumpers. They must have socks and a signed waiver by parent
Birthday Party Questions
What time should my guests and I arrive at the party?
We ask that you and your guests arrive 15 minutes minutes prior to your scheduled party to allow time for check in and Pump It Up safety video viewing. We are able to accept your items at the check in time only. Thank You
Will there be a Pump It Up staff member available to assist me in the party room?
Yes - a staff member will be available to assist you in the party room. Your coordinators job is to take care of your set up, cake cutting and clean up (the BEST part!)
How do I schedule a Pump It Up party?
It's easy! Just give us a call and we'd be happy to reserve your special day and time! For your convenience, you can also book your party online.(760)510-8000
Is a deposit required?
A $100 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your party with Visa or Mastercard.. The balance is due and payable on the day of your party.
What if I need to reschedule my party?
We require at least 10 days prior to party day if you need to reschedule your party (your party must be rescheduled within 2 months of the original party date). If you cancel or reschedule your party within 9-4 days of your party date, you will be responsible for 50% of the remaining balance. If you cancel or reschedule your party within 3 days of your party date, you will be responsible for 100% of the remaining balance. Remember that your deposit is non-refundable (sorry no exceptions).
How many guests can I invite?
Please refer to the Birthday Party section of the website for the designated guest count. Additional guests are welcome! There is a $10 charge per additional guest over the number included in the Deluxe party package, and a $15 charge per additional guest over the number in the Ultimate party packages. Our packages are geared towards kids, ages 2-18 including the birthday child. Parents are free and are there to watch their kids. We have a few adults activities to keep the adults entertained
Do I need to stay at the party?
The party host is required to stay at the party. Other adults are also welcome to stay and enjoy the fun! Or, they can drop off and pick up their kids at the end of the party
What food items can be brought into the facility?
We allow: pre-cut, ready to serve fruit & vegetable platters (NO SALADS), chips,pretzels. Cake/cupcakes & juice boxes (example: Capri Suns) and water bottles. No ice or ice chests are allowed as we have a refrigerator for your perishable items at your check in time. No other food/beverage is allowed and will not be served. Thank You. Party packages are final on party day
What kind of drinks can I bring?
We allow juice boxes (example: Capri Suns) and water bottles. No other outside beverages are allowed. We have a refrigerator here, and at your check in time, we will refrigerate your beverages. Please bring them to us as cold as possible No ice or ice chests please. * For your safety and enjoyment, only bottled water is permitted in the inflatable arena.
Can I bring my own goodie bags and/or balloons?
If you are not purchasing our popular Pump It Up goodie bags you are welcome to bring your own. You may also bring in your own balloons. *Please note we do not allow helium tanks to be brought into the facility, but pre-filled balloons are more than welcome.
Can I have alcohol for the adults?
No alcohol is allowed in our facility.
Can I use my own decorations and/or paper products in the party room?
You're welcome to use your own decorations and/or paper products in the party room. To preserve the integrity of our party rooms, we do not permit wall or ceiling decorations, streamers, silly string, confetti, or piñatas.
Are there any additional items I need to bring to the party?
If you will be bringing a cake, please bring a serving knife and candles. For your convenience, we also have socks available for purchase.
Do you provide party room set up and clean up?
Absolutely! We will set up the party room just the way you want it and clean up afterwards.
Can we start in the party room?
No, we've found that full tummies and bouncing don't mix, our parties begin in the inflatable arena(s).
Once in the party room, can guests re-enter the play arena(s)?
We're sorry, but guests may not re-enter the inflatable arena(s).
When should I order food for our party? Goodie bags? Balloons? And other party options?
We will call you the TUESDAY prior to party for final headcounts & party orders,finalizing by Wed 5pm. At that time, you'll have an opportunity to order pizza, beverages, goodie bags, balloons, and other party options if you haven't already. Party packages are final on party day ** We proudly serve food from O's American Kitchen
What if I am late for my scheduled party time? What if my Guests are late?
We understand that circumstances happen, however, our parties start promptly at the scheduled time. Since there may be other parties scheduled after your party time, we may be unable to extend your party time. If your party begins after your scheduled time due to waiting for late guests, you will have less time in the arenas and, possibly, the party room. If your guests arrive late and you have already started your party, we will escort your guest to your party. PARTY PACKAGE IS FINAL ON PARTY
Can I spend more than the designated play time in the inflatable arena?
We're sorry, but we cannot extend your play time in the inflatable arena(s).
Do you provide ice for drinks?
No, but our soft drinks are cold. You may store your drinks in our guest refrigerator at check in
Can we open gifts in the party room?
While gifts are an awesome part of a kid's birthday, we encourage children to open gifts at home to avoid hurt feelings from any of the guests.
What additional items are available for purchase?
We have items such as goodie bags, balloons, and glow necklaces available for purchase. Please note, your helium tank is not permitted in our facility.
Open Jump FAQ
Are reservations required?
No. Reservations are not required; just play and pay
When does Open Jump start?
Open Jump sessions begin exactly on time. Sorry, no extra play time allowed, nor discounts given for late-comers.
Are there height restrictions for Open Jump?
Children must be 34" tall to play on the inflatables at this facility. Children who do not meet the height requirement may enter the facility at no charge, but are not permitted on the inflatables at all, not event with an adult.
Do I need to stay with my child during the Open Play session
Yes – our weekly Open Jump sessions are not drop-off events.
"FAQ" was last updated August 23rd, 2019 by


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We just got a batch of new teen books in. Check them out!
The Battle for Hackham Heath by John Flanagan
Bad Blood (the Naturals #4) by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Flashfall by Jenny Moyer
A Million Worlds With You by Claudia Gray
Tales from the Shadowhunter Academy by Cassandra Clare
Star Wars: Ahsoka by E.K. Johnston
When We Collided by Emery Lord
The Boomerang Effect by Gordon Jack


text:
Pay a visit to Family Crest Etc in store on online for a wonderful gift that can be passed on from generation to generation.
Show your parents how much you love and appreciate them with a gift from Family Crest Etc just because. Family Crest Etc can help you find your family crest and help you search through the online names book featuring more than 300,000 names.
Family Crest Etc has an incredible selection of your family's Coat of Arms, Scottish Clan Badges, international flags and much more.
There is nothing better than tracing your family tree, and if you have recently discovered your Coat of Arms, place an order with Family Crest Etc for a beautifully framed copy o your Coat of Arms. You can even have both of your parent's family Coats Of Arms featured in a pair of framed Coat of Arms prints.
When it comes to gifts, skip the usual fare and give something that your friends and family members will cherish forever from Family Crest Etc.


text:
The first thing you need to know about me is that I'm awesome. I don't actually believe that I am, because I'm neurotic and insecure like that, but I have a scientific turn of mind and the evidence is pretty compelling. It's getting to the point where my awesomeness is difficult to deny, and so I've decided to embrace it and inform people of the fact as often as possible. You know, so they don't keel over from the shock of discovering it all on their own.
I'm super noble. You'll soon learn that about me. It's part of the awesome.
My husband is an Optometrist. In non-fancy speak that's an eye doctor. He's kind of awesome too. I'm pretty sure I've rubbed off on him over the years. Anyway, when he was at Optometry school I liked to plot/scheme/dream about what his future clinic would be like. Scheming and plotting makes my inner villain super happy. My favourite future-evil-plan moment was when I came up with the PERFECT clinic name. Even then my awesomeness was beginning to shine through.
Neil was cautiously impressed, in a that's-really-cool-as-long-as-you-aren't-actually-serious kind of way. He ended up naming his clinic after the wee little town we live in, but I thought it should have been called, VANDERVISION.
Awesome, right?
Ever since then I've wanted to use the name for something. So I started a blog. Yeah, you'll hear me talk big about the REAL reasons I started up this site. Wanting to connect with people, wanting to preserve my awesomeness for posterity, blah blah blah. But it's really about the name.
And being awesome.
How do you channel your inner awesome?


text:
Ron Aguila
- Associate
NCIDQ, San Francisco Studio
Where did you go to school?
I got an architecture degree from the University of Southern California, home of the "Fight On" Trojans.
Anything in particular you remember about school or early practice?
Hard to remember that far back. But my first job interview was on a commuter bus, sitting by chance next to a principal at HOK. And my first project assignment as a result of that interview was the Royal Terminal at the new airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It was in the middle of the desert funded by obscene oil money. No budget, no context, and no restrictions other than our imaginations. Pretty cool launch for a design career.
What do you do at RMW?
I am a senior interior designer. And what I do boils down to helping our clients manage change. They come to us with spatial needs driven by shifts in business, technology, and work process. My job is to develop an expertise in their goals and become their advocate. I do this by immersing myself in their culture and applying my past experience to generate an array of choices. I try to perceive projects at all the applicable scales ranging from master planning, architecture, interiors and construction. The depth of the solution comes from these aspects, the unique character of our client, and how the project adapts over time. My process is methodological and exploratory. It reveals a sense of how spaces should work, look, and fit in their context. And it's collaboration with my clients that realizes those sensibilities.
What do you like about the firm?
The chemistry of the people. It's really important to be part of a culture that strives to improve and grow together. The blend of talent, support, leadership, and humor enables me to do satisfying work.
What do you do outside the firm?
My main goal is to survive my son's teenage years. Second, is to constantly outwit our small rodent-dog from chewing up my stuff. I cope with challenges as a student of traditional Japanese karate. Nothing prepares me better for a day at the office and at home than combat at the dojo!


text:
I was feeling rubbish this morning. I'm not sleeping very well at the moment and K is having a tough week too so when i woke up this morning i had a little grey cloud over my head.
I left the house feeling overwhelmed, overtired and stressed.
And then i crossed paths with a lovely woman who did something to make my life easier.
I'd never met this person before and she had no reason to go out of her way to do something nice for someone else but just did.
She gave me a lift to the bus stop.
You may be thinking Oh Wow! You're so grateful for this? Get a grip love.
But actually yes i was so grateful.
Because the College that K attends is 3 miles outside of town in a small village and i don't drive. The local bus only runs to this village once a hour.
We get off the bus, walk five minutes to the campus, i walk K to the door and say goodbye and then its an hour wait for the next bus.
The bus goes round the village in a loop so if i could back to the bus stop in about 4 minutes then i can be home an hour earlier.
What a difference this makes to my day and my state of mind.
Firstly i have an extra hour to myself.
Secondly my stress levels are immediately reduced because I'm not sat on a village bench for an hour with my brolly and dying for a wee.
And thirdly its just really nice when somebody does something for you purely because they want to.
This isn't intended to be a preachy blog. I'm not perfect. I tut impatiently when someones holding me up, i don't always notice that i could do something to help someone else.
Without that gesture this morning i probably would've trudged through my day not giving it a second thought.
But standing there waiting for the bus i wondered.. If everyone did one small thing for someone else out of kindness, just a tiny thing, how much happier would we all be?
How many peoples spirits could i lift just by lending a hand to someone or even taking the time to notice them.
So here's my list of Acts of kindness that i will try to do for others.They wont cost me anything and might make someone else smile.
- Compliment a parent on their child's lovely manners
- Tell someones boss how fab their employee is
- Give up my seat on public transport for someone who needs it more.
- Let the person in the supermarket queue with one item go before me
- Help someone with heavy bags
- Take the time to ask someone if they are OK.
Kindness Giveaway
a Rafflecopter giveaway
- The closing date is 31st October 2017 at 23.59 (GMT).
- Open to UK residents aged 18 or over
- One winner will receive a medium Pastel Paradise Bouquet
- Entrants must log in via Rafflecopter
- Only one entry per Household
- Winner will be randomly generated by Rafflecopter
- All entries will be moderated.
- The winner will be informed by email within 7 days of the closing date, and must respond within 7 days to claim their prize.
- Winners name will be announced on Social media
- This prize draw is governed by English law and the courts of England shall have exclusive jurisdiction over any dispute arising in connection with it


text:
Sola Flower Bridesmaid Bouquet - Vintage Collection, Wedding Bouquet, Ivory Lace Black
$ 80.00
***PLEASE READ PRIOR TO ORDERING: This item is MADE TO ORDER, please check here for current processing times prior to ordering***This is a listing for one (1) beautiful custom handmade bridesmaid bouquet, part of my Vintage Collection. The sample bouquet shown is a mini (19").
This one of a kind piece features ivory sola flowers . Flower styles include shell, rose, mum, petunia, and carnation. The bouquet is accented with natural tan babies breath, soft green caspia with ivory tips and gold pearl pins. The stem is wrapped with black satin and finished with an ivory lace collar, and faux gold pearl pins. This bouquet will make a beautiful statement on your big day, this size is tended to be used as a bridesmaid bouquet or toss bouquet.
Sizes are approximate, final dimensions may vary slightly because each piece is unique and handmade.
This bouquet is also available in a large bridal size. You can see the mini bridesmaid bouquet and large bridal bouquet in the second and third photos.
Coordinating corsages and boutonnieres are also available.
Flowers are hand dyed and can be changed to any color, please message me if you'd like to customize this piece.
This bouquet is made to order at the time of purchase.
Accent your rustic, vintage, romantic, woodland, shabby chic, destination, garden, beach, or vineyard wedding.
Thanks for shopping!
Photos by: sabrinanohlingphotography.com
Designs, images, and text/descriptions are the property of and copyrighted © 2016 by Curious Floral, LLC all rights are reserved.


text:
Process mining is a relatively new field of computer science, which deals with process discovery and analysis based on event logs. When working with business processes we typically use detailed logs, which present the full report about sequences of executed activities. Experts prefer working with more abstract (high-level) models. More abstract models are easier to construct, understand and analyze.
In this paper we consider the problem of business process model discovering. Model's synthesis is intensively studied in the frame of process mining research. In the literature were considered only models and event logs of the same granularity. They provide no or only limited support for correctly refining these mappings based on domain knowledge. Here we present a solution for high-level business process model based on the theory of regions that allows us to get immediately a high-level model without intermediate stages.
Student Theses at HSE must be completed in accordance with the University Rules and regulations specified by each educational programme.
Summaries of all theses must be published and made freely available on the HSE website.
The full text of a thesis can be published in open access on the HSE website only if the authoring student (copyright holder) agrees, or, if the thesis was written by a team of students, if all the co-authors (copyright holders) agree. After a thesis is published on the HSE website, it obtains the status of an online publication.
Student theses are objects of copyright and their use is subject to limitations in accordance with the Russian Federation's law on intellectual property.
In the event that a thesis is quoted or otherwise used, reference to the author's name and the source of quotation is required.


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Cornerstone Christian Fellowship
Wednesday, January 29, 2020
1276 Grandview Drive Sparta NC 28675
Skip Navigation
About CCF
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Contact Us
Greeting Card
Greeting Card Ministry: This ministry is designed to encourage Cornerstone Members and
their extended family members. Often when there is a sickness or prolonged hospitalization
a card along with a gift card is given to encourage those who are in need.
Leader: Margaret Crouse
Church Website by E-zekiel


text:
The Fall
This Nation's Saving Grace (omnibus edition)
Mick Middles
, January 26th, 2011 10:25
With bonus discs and a colour booklet, the omnibus edition of This Nation's Saving Grace is a beautiful package and, as with the recent Wonderful and Frightening World box set, is set to fly from Amazon, no doubt to be careful placed on sagging shelves of middle-aged men in Hartlepool. Beggars Banquet is to be commended, for this sumptuous slice of essential Fall history retails at a mere £16.99. If one is foolish enough, you could pay that for a single album alone. But then... there remains the nagging nature of that irony. Isn't...wasn't the very point of The Fall a move away from such carefully constructed overviews? To capture the feel of any given moment, any given line-up, any given vision, be it musical, lyrical or graphic? That is The Fall essence. Snap it, record it, keep it. For better or worse. Then move on.
What would the restless Smith of 1985 make of such an artefact? Particularly as TNSG arrived effectively as a 'slap back' album; a typically stubborn and concerted attempt to allay fears that Beggars Banquet had succeeded in softening the band's caustic edge. The influence of Brix had undoubtedly added unlikely poptones...as a number of the recordings that preceded this album - 'No Bulbs', 'Oh Brother', 'Couldn't Get Ahead' - seemed to indicate. As if aware of this, Smith steered the band into rougher seas. TNSG was, therefore, constructed in an atmosphere of defiance.
While taking that on board, there is little doubt that the album is one of the peak achievements of this or any other version of The Fall. Arriving on the heels of The Wonderful and Frightening World, it caught a band on a roll from a city on the brink of resurgence. The band seemed a perfect blend of old and new, with the nucleus of Craig Scanlon (rhythm guitar), Steve Hanley (bass) and drummer Karl Burns cementing longevity freshened by the poptones and vision of Mark's wife, Brix and, curiously, classical music graduate Simon Rogers. The balance suited the band's heavy gig schedule in a frenetic year. Back in Manchester, the rush of new bands – Easterhouse, James, Simply Red, Jazz Defekters, Kalima, Marc Riley and the Creepers etc – served to shunt Manchester's big three – Smiths, New Order, The Fall – to an even higher profile. One recalls this year, and for the first time, a jack-booted Mark E Smith enjoying a headline slot at the city's Free Trade Hall; something that would have been unthinkable just 12 moths previously.
All of which injected a certain optimism amongst the ranks. Despite that inkling of commercial success, life with Beggar's Banquet seemed unusually settled for this most fractious of units. Mark and Brix had moved into a semi-detached house in Salford's Sedgeley Park, literally a stone's throw away from the identical house in which he grew up. This move seemed to add a certain stability and is celebrated on this album with, naturally enough, 'My New House', which only proved that Fall songs could be about 'anything'. The house was/is actually curious in itself. With a blue/grey décor throughout, it clashed markedly against the prevailing trends and always seemed the perfect manifestation of Mark and his lively muse.
The Nation's Saving Grace begins with what has become an evergreen Fall live set opener. Brix Smith's 'Mansion' is a dark, catchy dabbling in pyschedelia and the absolute perfect lead-in to Mark's gloriously defiant 'Bombast'. If ever a song laid down a statement of unbridled vitriol, this is it. Good too, to hear the full funky force of Steve Hanley – one of the most underrated musicians of The Fall's vast army of ex-members. There is a version of 'Bombast' on the second CD here, sitting amid a rather uneven collection of outtakes, demos and rough mixes, that sees Hanley's strike up a gear and move to the front of an already raucous noise. Smith would staunchly defend Hanley at the time, stating; "No musician can LEARN what Steven does. You cannot TEACH someone that sound. You have to feel it and no other musician I have worked with has done that." This rare tribute to a long-standing band member came at the time of TNSG and it is on this box set, particularly among the supporting collection of also-ran mixes, that Hanley begins to particularly shine. How strange then to note a certain subduing of the bass lines on the official release. This has never been apparent until now.
Of course, band politics have always been deeply and intriguingly engrained within The Fall sound. Both this box set and the preceding Wonderful and Frightening World do offer a glimpse into this controlling process. It is not always comfortable, either. I know of a at least two ex members who still seethe at the memory of hearing their diminished contributions when confronted with the final mix. It's a Fall thing. This may be particularly apparent on TNSG as there was a curious dynamic between Smith and producer John Leckie. Smith's nervousness in regard to the musicality of Simon Rogers here is a case in point. "You have to UNLEARN your music" he told Rogers at the time, although one senses that Leckie would cleverly counter that particular notion. This is the core of the dynamic: the force of Brix's pop sensibility and the clean nature of Leckie versus the growl of Hanley and Smith's ever-present belligerence. Put this unlikely sparring together with 11 of Smith's barbed statements, and it is no surprise to find this ranking among the band's finest moments, for there is a curious 'haunting' to the sound that wasn't apparent on The Wonderful and Frightening...
Nowhere is this more apparent than on 'I Am Damo Suzuki', Smith's genuine tribute to the Can vocalist he had befriended. The song is loosely based on Can's 'Oh Yeah', which had even been mooted in a Fall practice session at the time. But it's an affectionate nod – not too many of those in the Fall's vast canon – rather than a steal. One can also sense the Germanic influence in 'Paintwork'. A semi-acoustic drifting that touches a mild psychedelic. Rather lovely and lonely when placed in a song list that also includes 'Spoilt Victorian Child', 'Gut of the Quantifier' and 'L.A'. The latter being a rather testy look back to the lengthy period Smith had spent in the city. "Hated LA," he told me, "...and I spent six months there...and in the best bits as well. It's horrible. Horrible town. If you like a beer, you are regarded as a tramp. Hated it." As such, the track, 'L.A' might convey the rather obvious message that the city of angels is not the most natural home for a belligerent Salfordian who enjoyed the nicotine stained lounge-bars in pubs near Heaton Park than the bistros of West Hollywood.
I am not convinced that all Fall albums would be enhanced by an Omnibus version. However, TNSG does find the band at the centre of a frenetic year... and that entire year does seem to be beautifully gathered here. It seems curiously evocative of the time, to be flicking through the superb accompanying booklet while allowing the album and multitudinous out-takes to fill the room. The sound of a band battling the natural slide towards a central sound. The sound and feel also, of a band, bunkering back in Manchester and Salford, as if unsettled by the broadsheet acceptance that had started to surround them.
If you love our features, news and reviews, please support what we do with a one-off or regular donation. Year-on-year, our corporate advertising is down by around 90% - a figure that threatens to sink The Quietus. Hit this link to find out more and keep on Black Sky Thinking.


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toy toilet image by Wayne Abraham from Fotolia.com
The flush valve on today's toilets operates on a water intake system that allows the float to ride up and down a metal rod in the toilet tank rather than have a large float ball. Increasing the water level provides a cleaner toilet with more water going down with each flush. The valve can be adjusted to decrease the water level in the tank to conserve water. The toilet flush valve determines how full the toilet tank will be and can be adjusted to eliminate leaks.
Lift the toilet tank lid off the tank and set aside.
Locate the metal rod on the side of the water intake assembly.
Pinch the clip on the rod and slide the float cup up the metal shaft to increase the water level in the tank. Slide the float cup down the shaft to decrease the water level in the tank. Release the clip when the float cup is positioned to the desired level.
Replace the toilet tank lid onto the toilet.
Most recent
- toy toilet image by Wayne Abraham from Fotolia.com


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By PaskMakes
In Plywood, WoodworkingPosted
Make your own Truck Bed Drawers
Truck bed drawers are likely to cost you $1000 plus but for much less you can make them yourself. They are easy to build and you won't have to compromise on the quality either. If you follow this [...]


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Water Vapour and Clouds
The radiative budget of the Earth is particularly sensitive to changes in the amout of water vapor and the cloud cover in the tropopause. In this altitude region, the exchange of water vapor between troposphere and stratosphere takes place and also cirrus clouds, consisting of ice crystals, are predominant. Since water vapor and cirrus influence the radiative balance of the atmosphere, the water vapor transport and exchange processes as well as the process of cirrus ice particle formation is currently being explored. New findings are obtained by national and international airborne field campaigns and laboratory experiments at the cloud chamber AIDA. During the campaigns, e.g. the ice water content of the cirrus and the humidity of the air is measured with the hygrometers FISH and HAI (in cooperation with PTB Braunschweig). The number and size of the ice crystals are recorded by the cloud spectrometer NIXE-CAPS. Simoultaneously, cirrus clouds can be detected with the portable Lidar instrument CORAL, during actual campaigns or on a longer term basis e.g. over Jülich. For a better interpretation of the observations, simulations are performed using the detailed spectral microphysical model MAID as well as the large-scale Lagrangian model CLaMS-Ice (in cooperation with the 'Theory' group).
The work programme "Water Vapour and Clouds" includes:
- Developing high-resolution hygrometers for in situ measurements in the stratosphere and upper troposphere
- Characterization and quality assurance of hygrometers and cloud spectrometers in the laboratory
- Planning, coordinating and performing measurements, usually in international cooperations using aircraft
- Evaluating and scientifically analysing the measured data and publishing them
Our team:
- Dr. Martina Krämer
- Dipl.-Ing. Armin Afchine
- Dina Khordakova
- Dipl.-Ing. Hameed Moqadam
- Dr. Christian Rolf
- Nicole Spelten


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Sean McAdam of CSNNE.com joined Tony Massarotti on the Baseball Reporters to discuss the upcoming Trade Deadline and Bobby Valentine's future in Boston.
What should the Red Sox be doing as the Trade Deadline approaches? Should the Sox be buyers or sellers?
"I've been saying for a while that they may end up doing a little bit of both," said McAdam. "There are spare parts on this roster that have value; a guy like Kelly Shoppach who has had a pretty good first half as a backup catcher. There are teams that are thin at that position; the Mets are one team that have kicked the tires there."
"I think a couple of the outfielders like Nava, Podsednik and maybe Sweeney (could be available), who become a bit redundant or at least crowded out when Ellsberry and Crawford come back," added McAdam. "Then you have bullpen guys who are probably having career years, guys like Albers and Atchison who aren't part of the long-term picture here but you can sell high on them."
Heyman On Gresh & Zo: Can Sox Catch Yankees?
Could the Red Sox pull off a bigger trade, possibly sending out one of their struggling front-line starters like Josh Beckett or Jon Lester.
"I don't think it's out of the possibility that they move on of the big guys," said McAdam. "The only problem with that thinking is it's two fold: one is management gives them that green light, because that's tantamount to waiving the white flag, at least on this season… then the other thing that would preclude them is, are you trading these guys when they've bottomed out and their value is low; when you're getting 60-cents on the dollar?"
"The best thing to do is hope one of them turns it around in the second half and you shop them in the offseason," he said.
While McAdam would like to see Boston kick the tires on any deal, he said the ones that should remain untouchable are their young prospects still in the minor leagues.
"The one thing I would avoid doing is moving prospects. Don't trade Lavarnway, Middlebrooks and Jackie Bradley Jr., some of the guys they're getting a lot of calls on," said McAdam. "If they're intent on remaking this, keep your younger guys and listen to offers on every veteran you can."
Verducci On Felger & Mazz: Valentine Likely Fired If Sox Miss Playoffs
What is Bobby Valentine's state of mind, this point in the season? If the Sox miss the playoffs, will Bobby Valentine return to the Sox next season?


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Jul 4, 2015
White Sox escape with win over Orioles
Avisail Garcia robbed Chris Davis of a tying home run with a leaping catch in the ninth inning, and the Chicago White Sox held off the Baltimore Orioles 3-2 on Saturday.
The Canadian Press
CHICAGO - The last-place Chicago White Sox got the big hit. Then they got the big catch. Now they've won four straight.
Avisail Garcia robbed Chris Davis of a tying home run with a leaping catch in the ninth inning, and the White Sox held off the Baltimore Orioles 3-2 on Saturday.
Garcia slapped his glove after making the sensational grab.
"I was playing no doubles because they have a power hitter," Garcia said. "I was playing close to the fence, so I had a chance to get it. So I got it."
J.B. Shuck put Chicago in front with a pinch-hit double in the eighth. Gordon Beckham scored the go-ahead run after he walked and advanced on a sacrifice bunt against Bud Norris (2-8), just demoted to the bullpen. Shuck doubled to right field off Darren O'Day.
David Robertson earned his 18th save in 22 opportunities — with a huge assist from Garcia. The right fielder jumped and reached behind him over the wall to take a home run away from Davis with one out in the ninth.
"Anytime he makes contact you're worried it's leaving the field," Robertson said. "I was just overjoyed to see him catch that ball and come back with it. It was awesome."
The Orioles also thought Davis' drive had a good chance to leave the park.
"Right off the bat, you see the ball go up, and we thought it was gone," Baltimore third baseman Manny Machado said. "But he went out there and made a hell of a play."
Machado hit a two-run homer to tie it at 2 in the eighth. He connected against Zach Putnam (2-3), who replaced Jeff Samardzija after he walked the previous batter. The home run ended Baltimore's scoreless streak at 26 2-3 innings.
Samardzija struck out nine and allowed a run and three hits in 7 2-3 innings. Ryan Flaherty singled with two outs in the sixth for the Orioles' first hit. He hit the ball up the middle on Samardzija's first pitch.
"My mechanics have come around and I feel comfortable with what I'm doing out there, which means we can execute the pitches instead of having to worry about what you're doing above the rubber," Samardzija said.
Jose Abreu scored two runs and had a double and triple for the White Sox, who have won eight of 12 after losing eight straight. The Orioles have lost five of six.
Garcia's RBI single put the White Sox ahead in the first inning.
Abreu led off the fifth with a triple and scored on Cabrera's sacrifice fly.
Machado drew a leadoff walk in the first for the Orioles' lone baserunner through the first five innings.
"I thought I had given up one (hit) to Machado there in the first. But it was a walk, apparently," Samardzija said. "But, hey, something was going on when the fans started getting all rowdy for popup outs. I felt good. That's something you want."
Orioles RHP Kevin Gausman (1-0, 3.09 ERA) will remain in the rotation and start Tuesday against Minnesota. Norris was moved from the rotation to the bullpen. Gausman struck out seven in 6 1-3 scoreless innings against Texas on Thursday after he was recalled from Triple-A Norfolk.
Former White Sox closer Bobby Jenks, a member of the 2005 World Series champions, threw out the ceremonial first pitch on a day when the team gave away his bobblehead to fans. Jenks confirmed he has retired after battling back issues and last pitching in the majors in 2011. "I gave it a run," he said. "It's just too much pain off the mound."
Orioles RHP Miguel Gonzalez (6-5, 4.04 ERA) is scheduled to start Sunday in the series finale against LHP Carlos Rodon (3-1, 4.07).


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*Prices, plans, dimensions, features, specifications, materials, and availability of homes or communities are subject to change without notice or obligation. Illustrations are artist's depictions only and may differ from completed improvements. Photos, videos and virtual tours may not accurately represent specifications, selections or floorplan options available in every community. Please see a New Home Specialist for details.
This floorplan features a master suite and in-law suite on the first floor!
- Master suite with two walk-in closets, separate his and hers sinks, garden tub, walk-in shower, private water closet and linen closet
- Great room with fireplace
- Eat-in kitchen with island, pantry cabinets, view to great room and access to optional covered porch
- Formal dining room with coffered ceiling and wainscoting detail option
- Half bath.
- Second floor includes 3 additional bedrooms, all with walk-in closets!
- Bonus room also with walk-in closet!


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Consulting & Partnership Facilitation.
David, the Managing Director of Fortis Consulting London, is passionate about effective engagement, innovation & organisational performance, with a strong focus on outcomes. He has wide experience of consultancy & management development. Working within a 'win-win' framework David enjoys connecting organisations.
He is the Chairman of the Institute of Directors, London Region, a high profile group of business leaders; there are approximately 6000 members. David frequently engages with members of the Central Government, Regional Government, Local Government including The City of London Corporation, diplomats, business leaders and their senior teams, to discuss how to drive up business performance.
Prior to this position David was Chairman of the Institute of Directors, City of London. The current Chairman is Alderman Alastair King and the Branch was founded in 1981 by Sir Kenneth Cork (Lord Mayor of London 1978). . IoD City's other Past Chairmen have been: Sir Roger Cork (Lord Mayor 1996), Sir Peter Gadsden (Lord Mayor 1979), Jack Neary (Sheriff 1985), Sir David Brewer (Lord Mayor 2005) & Sir David Wootton (Lord Mayor 2011).
As well as having a successful background in operational management, David has designed & led several organisational change programmes, putting robust planning & effective communication at the centre of them.
He can often be seen at events in London. Recently he has spoken within the Mansion House, the House of Lords, the House of Commons, Chartered Accountants Hall & the Law Society.
David has wide experience in the design and delivery of corporate consultancy and management education. He holds several degrees including Law and an MBA. David has worked with many medium and large organisations, UK based and multi-nationals. Start-ups and scale ups, including those looking to enter the UK market, are a growing area of activity.
David is an Honarary Senior Visting Fellow at Cass Business School, London. He is a Visiting Professor at Guildhall School of Business & Law, London Metropolitan University.
David is a frequent participant at conferences contributing to a wide range of subjects, including transformational change, entrepreneurship and the need for effective communication between international business cultures. David oversees our Expert Briefings. He has spoken at London Business School, Imperial College Business School, Cass Business School, Cambridge University, Judge Business School, King's College London, London School of Economics and several other universities.
David holds the Business Cultural Trainer's Certificate and has travelled in over 70 countries. He engages with many international business groups including from China, USA, Slovakia, Estonia, UAE, Poland, Peru, Malaysia, India and Thailand.
He is a Court Member (Executive) and Committee Chairman of the Worshipful Company of Glaziers in the City of London, an ancient Livery Company whose existence was first recorded in 1328.
David is a Fellow of the Institute of Directors (established 1903 & Royal Charter awarded in 1906), a member of the Bank of England Institute of Directors Panel, the City of London FinTech Action Network, Tech London Advocates, The 48 Group Club 'The Icebreakers', the British Malaysian Society, the Austrian Business Circle, the Arab Women of the Year Awards Advisory Board, the Chinese Business Leaders Awards Judging Panel, the Imperial College Business School Alumni Financial Services Group, the Cass Business School Entrepreneurs Network and a Vice President of Blackheath (Rugby) Football Club.


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Giving at RCC
Everyone of us is blessed with resources that we can use to partner with God in extending his kingdom influence. One way that we can share these is through generosity and giving.
Each week, an offering is received in both the 9am and 11am service, but many people find more convenient to use internet banking.
If you would like to set up an AP, the RCC bank account number is as follows.
010819 - 0036589 - 00
If you'd like to give online immediately using your credit card, click on the link below
Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written:"They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever."
2 Corinthians 9:7-9
As well as regular giving, each year RCC offers the opportunity to be involved in an over-and-above giving project, referred to as Vision Impact Giving.
What Is Vision Impact Giving?
A voluntary initiative, in which you pledge to give an amount of money over and above normal offerings. This is enables us as a church to further partner in what God is doing by stepping up our capacity to handle additional projects that make a significant difference to people's lives.
So far, over $980,000 been raised over the last 13 years, for a huge range of projects, both locally and internationally.
Who is it for? Anyone who is willing to give large or small amounts to projects that make a difference. (We would love to see more people being involved by giving $10, $20, $100 or whatever they can.)
How does Vision Impact Giving work?
The closing date for payments is the end of the tax year, 31 March.
The pledges and payments will be administered by RCC's Treasurer Mark Styles.
 Payments can also be made by direct transfer into RCC's bank account. Please identify the transfers as VIG.
If you have any questions please ask Phil Stedman, RCC's Treasurer Mark Styles or any TOV member.
Please consider prayerfully this initiative and ask God for his leading to what you can commit to and trust Him to provide.


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Denver Contact Lenses: It's Time to Reconsider Colored Contact Lenses
Colored contact lenses aren't just for movie sets and Halloween anymore. More and more people are drawn to color contacts as a way to enhance their own eye color and even to shift eye color completely. In the early days of colored contact lenses, the lens quality was inferior to what was available in non-colored lenses and most optometrists were reluctant to prescribe colored lenses. Thanks to the latest lens technology, you no longer have to sacrifice comfort and quality to get the color enhancement you want. Whether you seek tint so you won't lose contact as you handle them each day or want to completely alter your eye color, Vision Care Specialists can work with you to find the Denver contact lenses that work best for you.
3 Kinds of Tints
Visibility Tints: This color treatment is primarily to make it easier to handle and detect contacts. They are not intended to change eye color.
Enhancement: People with light-colored eyes can use contacts to enhance their natural eye color to create vibrant blues and deeper greens and grays. Unfortunately, they aren't effective for people who already have dark-colored eyes.
Opaque: If you want to totally change your natural eye color, then opaque contact lenses are for you! This would also be the solution for people who already have dark-colored irises.
Pick the Right Color
Just like when you pick the perfect eyeglass frames to suit you, the color of your hair and eyes will help you select the right color contact lenses. It's also important to consider if you want to make a daring fashion statement or seek a more natural enhancement. No matter which type you choose, they are available with or without a vision-correcting prescription.
Take Care
Colored contact lenses are safe for your eyes, just be sure you follow your doctor's recommendations for the proper care and maintenance of the contact lenses just as you would with traditional contact lenses. If you want to play around with a really bold look, you might want to consider daily disposable contact lenses. Keep in mind there may be times that the colored portion of a colored contact lens will shift over the iris of your eye when you blink or when the light shifts and your iris changes size. This may create a less-than-natural appearance and can slightly affect your vision.
How to Use This Information
The quality and options of colored contact lenses have come a long way since they were first introduced. If you're ready to discuss which Denver contact lenses might be the best solution for you, Vision Care Specialists is here to help. Please call us at 303-991-9600 or contact us online, and we'll be happy to help.
Why are you considering colored contact lenses?


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Inflight magazine advertising is surely gaining a lot of popularity over the recent years. The reason is obviously its high viewership. Your answers to the following questions should help you agree with this fact.
Which according to you is the most boring part of air travel? Isn't it those 30 minute ascent and descent periods, when you switch off your electronic devices?So, what do you generally do during these 30 minutes?Pick up and browse through an in-flight magazine?Well, that's what most would do.
The Power of Inflight Magazine Advertising
It is frequent flight travelers who generally read inflight magazines. These generally include business owners and decision-makers of big organizations. If you are looking for a way to reach these people directly, it is only possible through inflight magazine advertising.
Inflight magazines give a much needed break to flight travelers who need to kill time. The captive environment that an airplane cabin provides only enhances this. As a result, a lot of attention goes into reading inflight magazines. Every part of the magazine, including advertisements, gets the exposure that it deserves.
Inflight Magazine advertising offers an excellent opportunity to brand owners and media buyers to reach out to their target audience. Produced by quality publishers, these magazines support advertising campaigns successfully. Many high-end, prestigious brands have therefore started advertising in inflight magazines.
The Advantages of Inflight Magazine Advertising
Tangibility is one of the huge benefits of inflight magazines. The smell of the magazine and the feel of the quality paper used give a genuine touch to the content published. The readers don't mind holding the magazines for longer durations, as they are usually light-weight. This makes inflight magazine advertising more effective.
There is also the convenience of reading that makes inflight magazine advertising worthwhile. The perfect layout of the print guides the readers to the most important parts of the magazine. Moreover, flight travel provides all the time that a reader needs to digest the information given. This makes it easier to convey your brand message perfectly.
If you would have noticed, the shelf-life of inflight magazines is quite long. People won't really mind browsing through them even after several months of publication. So your inflight magazine ad is sure to have an audience for a longer time.
The Take-Away
Inflight magazines have managed to carved an identity for themselves in spite of the world going digital. Thanks to their guaranteed reach and the positive response of their readers. This credibility is not going to decrease any time in the near future.
With the number of airline carriers in India, increasing, brands can find unlimited opportunities to advertise in in-flight magazines. If you have only been focusing on TV and internet advertising, it is high time you tried your luck at inflight magazine advertising. Letting go of this option would mean missing out on a big-time opportunity to take your business towards a greater height of success.
Now that you know inflight magazine advertising is sure to work, get ready to launch a campaign at the earliest.


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You're onto a wing-er
Average Customer Rating from 3 ratings
Order Code: FH1600
Key Features:
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If you and the girls are wanting to have a magical evening, then what better way is there of ensuring that than holding an angel-themed hen party? Make sure that you attract prying eyes around the town with these fairy wings.
With a pair of pink fairy wings, you willy easily be able to keep tabs on the girls should a section of them be on the dancefloor. Also designed with black stars, you and the rest of the group will be given the fully deserved VIP treatment.
If it is the angel-themed party that you are going for, we have a range of wands and general costume acessories as well as other wings.
Average Customer rating from 3 reviews:
Of the 3 customers who rated this product, 3 left some comments:
Great item - Hen absolutely loved them!
Clare Williams - 19 Jul 2014
Sally Hillson - 27 Jun 2014
Rosalind Read-Leah - 22 Jul 2013
Red Wings With Black Stars


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NEWPORT are targeting Springbok star Percy Montgomery.
The 50-times capped full-back has turned his back on South African rugby and declared he is going to play overseas.
It's understood the Black & Ambers are among the clubs keen to acquire his services, with backer Tony Brown prepared to fund another bigname signing.
"We have not lost our ambition and we want to move on," said Brown.
"So we would be prepared to make a major signing if the opportunity came along.
"We do need strength in depth and perhaps we could do with a little more cutting edge."
Montgomery, who can play at outside-half as well as full-back, is also a prolific goal-kicker and the second-highest points scorer in South African Test history with 261.
His agent Craig Livingstone says South Africa's black quota system is the main reason for the 28-year-old's move.
"The quota system definitely had a major influence on his decision," said Livingstone.
"There are two black fullbacks in Ricardo Loubscher and Conrad Jantjes who are vying with Percy for the 'Bok full-back position.
"There is a lot of pressure on coaches at the moment to play black players and it is doubtful if Percy would play above the two.
"Percy needed to look at his long-term commitments and therefore he now feels the time is ripe to go overseas.
"He has to earn while he can and if his future is uncertain here in South Africa, why can't he say yes to a contract which could bring him in #150,000 over three years?"
According to Livingstone, Montgomery has not signed with a club, but there "was a lot of interest".


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Vaalco Energy Meets on the Top Line, Misses Where it Counts
Vaalco Energy (NYS: EGY) reported earnings on May 8. Here are the numbers you need to know.
The 10-second takeaway
For the quarter ended March 31 (Q1), Vaalco Energy met expectations on revenues and missed estimates on earnings per share.
Compared to the prior-year quarter, revenue shrank and GAAP earnings per share shrank significantly.
Margins contracted across the board.
Revenue details
Vaalco Energy recorded revenue of $45.3 million. The one analyst polled by S&P Capital IQ expected revenue of $45.0 million on the same basis. GAAP reported sales were 3.2% lower than the prior-year quarter's $46.8 million.
Source: S&P Capital IQ. Quarterly periods. Dollar amounts in millions. Non-GAAP figures may vary to maintain comparability with estimates.
EPS details
EPS came in at $0.15. The one earnings estimate compiled by S&P Capital IQ forecast $0.21 per share. GAAP EPS of $0.15 for Q1 were 21% lower than the prior-year quarter's $0.19 per share.
Source: S&P Capital IQ. Quarterly periods. Non-GAAP figures may vary to maintain comparability with estimates.
Margin details
For the quarter, gross margin was 87.8%, 100 basis points worse than the prior-year quarter. Operating margin was 66.5%, 50 basis points worse than the prior-year quarter. Net margin was 19.9%, 410 basis points worse than the prior-year quarter.
Looking ahead
Next quarter's average estimate for revenue is $43.7 million. On the bottom line, the average EPS estimate is $0.16.
Next year's average estimate for revenue is $210.0 million. The average EPS estimate is $0.91.
Investor sentiment
The stock has a five-star rating (out of five) at Motley Fool CAPS, with 1,514 members out of 1,561 rating the stock outperform, and 47 members rating it underperform. Among 302 CAPS All-Star picks (recommendations by the highest-ranked CAPS members), 296 give Vaalco Energy a green thumbs-up, and six give it a red thumbs-down.
Of Wall Street recommendations tracked by S&P Capital IQ, the average opinion on Vaalco Energy is hold, with an average price target of $7.50.
Are you missing a major story in the energy space? Read about "One Stock to Own Before Nat Gas Act 2011 Becomes Law." Click here for instant access to this free report.
- Add Vaalco Energy to My Watchlist.
At the time this article was published Seth Jayson had no position in any company mentioned here at the time of publication. You can view his stock holdings here. He is co-advisor ofMotley Fool Hidden Gems, which provides new small-cap ideas every month, backed by a real-money portfolio. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Copyright © 1995 - 2012 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.


text: Jon Thomson (b. London) and Alison Craighead (b. Aberdeen) are fascinated how trends of globalisation and networked global communications have been re-shaping the way we all perceive and understand the world around us. They live and work in London and Kingussie in the highlands of Scotland making artworks for galleries, online and specific sites. They have exhibited widely in Europe and North America. Jon lectures at The Slade School of Fine Art, University College London, while Alison is Reader in contemporary art and visual culture at University of Westminster and lectures in fine art practice at Goldsmiths University, London. For information on forthcoming, current and previous work, you can follow their blog at http://thomson-craighead.blogspot.com and explore their archive website at http://www.thomson-craighead.net


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Little League's most valuable asset are the people, making the operation of a safe and healthy program the top priority. Always considering the well-being of the players, volunteers, and fans, Little League has diligently developed player safety resources that can make the experience positive and memorable.
Player Safety
Player Safety Resources
A Safety Awareness Program
Long the pacesetter in youth sports safety, Little League has again taken the lead with the development of ASAP…
Child Protection Program
All local Little Leagues are required to conduct background checks on managers, coaches, board of directors…
Additional Player Safety Resources
Little League efforts to create a safe and healthy environment for its players and volunteers, both on the field and off.