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Best Quality BMW ICOM A3+B+C+D Professional Diagnostic Tool with Free Wifi and V2019.12 Engineers software
Software Version : V2019.12
ISTA - D: 4.20.31,with SDP Programming Database 4.20.13
ISTA - P: 3.67.0.000 with Engineer Programming,supports the programming of BMW motorcycles and electric vehicles can program F/G/I/K chassis for car (through the ICOM, not other cable )
Vin: V2019.10.15
BMW KSD: 2019.11 Multilanguage
BMW FSC Navigation Code Generator
BMWAiCoder for BMW Coding
BMW ICOM V2019.12, With free Software:
1. Get engineer version, INPA 5.00,winkfp 5.2.3,NCS 3.5.1, e-sys 3.30,data V67.0
2. get Chinese software DR.GINI B020
3. get count code navigation tool software FSC operator code
4. get one-clik hidden brush tool BMWAi V4.6
5. Add DIS Software for Old cars, DISV57 and DISV44,diagnosis and programming for BMW virtual machines
ISTA-P/ISTA-D Multi-language available in diagnosing, programming and TIS diagram circuit: British English, German, Spanish, French, Italian, polish, Portuguese, Turkish, Czech, Swedish, Dutch, Indian, Greek, Russian, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Thai.
System Requirements:
Dual-core processor, better above I3; over 4G of memory
Support Model:
It is recommended to use Lenovo ThinkPad: T61, T400, T410, T420, T430, X61, X200, X201, X220 X230 and other laptop with Intel chipset, such as I3 I5 / I7 series.
Software display :
ICOM A3+B+C+D Function:1. A3- OBD diagnostic supporting MOST, D-CAN and K-CAN protocols
2. B - diagnostic via MOST bus, and have connection to A-interface via USB connection.
3. C - 20-pin cable for old models.
4. D- ICOM-D Motorcycles Motobikes Diagnostic Cable
BMW ICOM A3+B+C +D Special Features Compared with BMW ICOM:
The modified BMW ICOM A3 for vehicles with OBD access receives a significantly more powerful processor and more storage capacity.Robust aluminium case will help to avoid damage when using in harsh environments.
BMW ICOM A3+B+C +D Features:
1. BMW ICOM A3 Hardware Version: V1.40
2. Support Vehicles: BMW Cars, BMW Motorcycle, Rolls-Royce, Mini Cooper
3. Support BMW All Series Diagnose and Programming
4. Device main board contain WIFI chip, package come with WIFI adapter. Support wireless connection between ICOM A3 and laptop. But when you do programming, can not use WIFI, it is not as stable as cables.
BMW ICOM A3+B+C +D Packing List:
Option 1:
1pc x BMW ICOM A3 Interface
1pc x BMW ICOM B Most
1pc x BMW 20pin Cable
1pc x BMW ICOM D Cable
1pc x USB Cable
1pc x OBD2 Cable
1pc x LAN Cable
Option 2:
1pc x BMW ICOM A3 Interface
1pc x BMW ICOM B Most
1pc x BMW 20pin Cable
1pc x BMW ICOM D Cable
1pc x USB Cable
1pc x OBD2 Cable
1pc x LAN Cable
1pc x BMW ICOM HDD(500G)
Option 3:
1pc x BMW ICOM A3 Interface
1pc x BMW ICOM B Most
1pc x BMW 20pin Cable
1pc x BMW ICOM D Cable
1pc x USB Cable
1pc x OBD2 Cable
1pc x LAN Cable
1pc x BMW ICOM SSD(Solid State Drive 500G)
User Comment(Total 6 Customer Reviews)
- by Giuseppe serlenga,Aug 14,2018
highly recommended , good quality
Reply #1 by Cara Aug 14,2018
Thanks for your good feedback
- by Paul McCalla,Jun 26,2018
how to update the software ?
Reply #1 by Cara Jun 26,2018
The software update by hard disk
- by Fabian Basha,May 11,2018
can work for many bmw vehicles , nice tool
Reply #1 by Cara May 11,2018
Thanks for your good feedback
- by manoj ,Apr 06,2018
do this support wifi connection ?
Reply #1 by Cara Apr 06,2018
Yes, this support wifi , thank you
- by paulo moreira ,Mar 20,2018
I have BMW ICOM hardware from you; can I use the BMW ICOM software from other sellers?
Reply #1 by Cara Mar 20,2018
Its better use our ICOM software , otherwise it may will not work.thank you
- by eural cleveland ,Mar 16,2018
BMW ICOM support calibration or reset air suspension?
Reply #1 by Cara Mar 16,2018
No it cant support , thank you
CnAutotool.com - Professional Auto Diagnostic Tools Supplier. We provides car diagnostics tools for Do-It-Yourself and professional automotive mechanics. If you have any problems, don't hesitate to contact us, send email to firstname.lastname@example.com or chat online. We are well organized by a group of rich-experienced design experts who have been engaging in auto diagnostic tools for more than 10 years. FREE, Professional & Unlimited Technical Support, Factory Price!
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Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Capsule Review: The Hangover (2009)
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Saw IV, V and VI: Political Torture and The Saw Legacy
In my previous look at the Saw phenomenon - covering the first three films - I mentioned a personal fascination with film series' that go long, and the evolution that begins to occur within. I mused about some of the possibilities of how the Saw series might progress, possibly through introducing more humor (which may be welcome considering how deadly serious the series had been), or perhaps introducing a note of meta-commentary as a way of examining the omnipresence of the series as a whole. While the first point certainly never revealed itself - the only humor ever present is the sheer disbelief at the complexity of some of the murder devices - there is a touch of the second point in the series' 6th installment, which introduces a few "ripped from the headlines" elements regarding insurance companies and housing loan scams that were particularly topical at the time the film was made.
One element of the series that had already started to develop in the first three films, and certainly continued throughout the next three, was the progression of Jigsaw/John Kramer as a sort of sympathetic anti-hero. While his methods are obviously brutal, since the death of character in Saw III the films have begun filling in his back-story and revealing the demented, but concrete, method behind his madness. This softening - if you can call it that - is obviously intentional, and shows a recognition that Kramer (and Tobin Bell's continually terrific performance) are what the fans come to see. It also reflects a similar evolution to that which occurred in the Friday the 13th series, where many of the victims were introduced as despicable and unlikeable characters, so the crowd would get more satisfaction from their eventual gory deaths. Slasher films, somewhat incongruously, are often very puritanical, with excessive sexuality and drug use being punished by death. The crimes of the victims in the Saw series tend to be a little more complicated, but the idea has begun to be the same - while we develop an emotional connection, we're always at a distance thanks to their eventually revealed despicable behavior.
However, the common criticism involving the near comical levels of complexity regarding the death devices in the series has been replaced with the disbelief at the sheer level of back-story that has been able to be filled in. While the creators have been smart to - even peripherally - keep Jigsaw at the forefront of the films, it seems that there would have to be limits to what audiences would accept as elements that can be continually filled in. The web of events being weaved remains interesting, and I respect the filmmakers for taking small details from previous films and tying them into the greater picture, but by the end of this second trilogy of films it seems we've nearly reached the limit of this sort of retroactive
I will admit that the details of the individual films tend to run together in Saw IV, V and VI, as the muddle of flashbacks and "shock" reveals begin to take their toll. It also seems that we've passed the point of no return regarding the level of violence in these films - as the comparative restraint of the first two films has given way to an expectation of bloodshed that actually serves to reduce much of the film's suspense. If there's a device that is meant to mutilate someone, the filmmakers will inevitably be showing you the evisceration in grand detail - at least in some capacity. Anyone who has watched up to this point already realizes that nobody escapes unscathed, which is just how the audiences seem to like it.
Saw IV (2007) finds the series at a crossroads, though also finds the return of many of the players from the previous film - including director Darren Lynn Bousman (who helmed the previous two installments). The film's central and most interesting character is now dead, and since the film doesn't trade on supernatural elements, we're shown John Kramer's autopsy in revolting (though, I have to admit, fascinating) detail. However, Kramer/Jigsaw was plenty busy before his death recording seemingly dozens of tapes to make sure everyone tangentially related to his life would be affected in some way. Much of the running time is devoted to Lieutenant Rigg (Lyriq Bent), who - after finding the body of Detective Kerry from the previous film - finds himself obsessed with finding Eric Matthews (Donnie Wahlberg's character from the previous two films) to the point where he's sent home to recuperate mentally. Jigsaw - however - has taken this opportunity to run the officer through a series of different tests meant to challenge his obsessive behavior.
We're also introduced to FBI agents Peter Strahm (Scott Patterson) and Lindsey Perez (Athena Karkanis), who are diligently searching for clues regarding the fate of Jigsaw, while also attempting to track down the whereabouts of Riggs. They are assisted by Detective Hoffman (Costas Mandylor), who soon finds himself part of one of Jigsaw's trademark devices - also involving Matthews.
Got all that? The cast of characters has started to pile up - and I didn't even mention the increased presence of Kramer's wife Jill Tuck or the appearance of previous protagonist Jeff Denlon - but the real fascination here comes from the increased number of flashbacks to Kramer's pre-Jigsaw life. I usually get annoyed by such attempts at humanization, but Bell's performance is so subdued and strong that he's able to make these moments - involving his relationship with Jill and her eventual miscarriage - really carry some weight. Rigg's journey is less interesting, and serves mostly as a catalyst for the film's trademark "games" - which seem a little less imaginative than usual. I found the film's ending to be rather anticlimactic, though it seems to represent a rather obvious (and necessary) changing of the guard concerning the direction of the series. The final reveal - another series trademark - is quite effective, and sets the next film up nicely.
Saw V (2008) marks a minor change in direction for the series, as we now have a new antagonist who has shown to have existed in the background of all of the previous films. We also have a terrific beginning which shows Agent Strahm managing to save his own life by giving himself a tracheotomy with a pen (after finding himself trapped in what appeared to be Radiohead's "No Surprises" video). Unfortunately, the rest of the film isn't nearly as interesting, despite a new director (Saw series production designer David Hackel) and some memorably gory moments (particularly the Pit and the Pendulum-inspired pre-credits sequence).
Once again the flashbacks tend to be the most interesting part, as we see the apprentice's involvement in some of the more memorable moments of the previous films, as well as the beginnings of his relationship with the Jigsaw character. The big murder set pieces come from a central game featuring five new victims whose selfishness has indirectly led to the deaths of eight people. I mentioned in the previous article about the film's central premise bringing to mind the Vincenzo Natali's Cube, and the dynamic of that film is particularly evident in the series of tests experienced by the characters here. However, they are a prime example of the sort of barely sympathetic characters that the series now specializes in as cannon fodder for the distinctive traps.
The acting in the film is solid across the board - only the first Saw film has particularly egregious examples of bad performances - though I found myself totally unable to care about the Peter Strahm character and part of that is due to the hard-nosed performance of Scott Patterson. We discover later that Strahm is being set up as a possible suspect for the post-Jigsaw murders, but while this may explain why they don't properly develop his character it doesn't make for very interesting viewing. We also get one of the least interesting climaxes of the series, making this likely the weakest entry as a whole in the series up to this point.
Saw VI (2009) somewhat surprisingly proved to be a return to form thanks to a combination of factors, not the least of which was the decision to embrace the thematic elements that supporters of modern splatter had always suggested were evident - the reflection of real world concerns. While I wrote in the previous article about the dubious suggestion that the acceptance of real world torture in times of war was a motivating influence on the development of the "torture porn" genre, the choice to incorporate references to the mortgage crisis in the guise of the predatory lenders in the pre-credit sequence and the much more overt references to the loathsome practices of Insurance companies as related to the recent American health care debate give the film - which has a comparatively short production schedule - a real sense of timeliness.
It also serves to continue the trend of the last few films of softening the impact and tension of the various trials and games being presented by having those being tested be quite unsympathetic. With most of the supporting cast having been dispatched, we're left with a much more focused plot of watching Jigsaw's apprentice slowly get revealed thanks to some past sloppiness, as well as a series of brutal games being played by health insurance executive William Easton (Peter Outerbridge) - who became a target of Jigsaw after earlier turning down John Kramer's attempts to get experimental treatment for his cancer. There are some fairly big reveals throughout, and I was impressed by the complicated ending which serves to quite effectively bring the numerous disparate threads together.
Editor for all of the previous films in the series, director Kevin Greutert doesn't provide the flashy transitions of Darren Lynn Bousman, but does a good job of tying this stage of the storyline together, while leaving a few strands for whoever is called on to follow (which ended up being himself, since he's also the director of 2010's Saw 3D). While I mentioned that Easton's character made his eventual fate less than distressing due to his dubious morality, Outerbridge does a wonderful job of balancing his expected smarm and smugness (in the flashbacks) with his obvious desperation once trapped. Tobin Bell gets to show off a bit more emotion as well in his few scenes, though the series as a whole is starting to stagger with the weight of the new back-story being piled upon it.
Even now going into the seventh and (not likely) final film in the series, I can certainly appreciate the appeal of Jigsaw as a villain - who holds quite strongly to a particular personal moral code, despite putting the characters in these films through absolute agony. He quite quickly replaced the various antagonists as the heart and soul of this series, but by killing him off in the third film the filmmakers have presented themselves with quite a quandary - keep moving deeper into a back-story that is already starting to get ridiculous, or try and present a new set of players? While some of the creative forces in this series have bent the formula slightly, there must be a very real concern about tipping the apple-cart, though the success of the most recent film does show that this series still has potential - or at least there's still an audience for bleak and cynical bloodshed.
I plan on completing my view of this series with a final look at the most recent and possible final entry in the series, in which perhaps the creators will answer some of these concerns.
filmsquish.com 1001 Movies You Must See Before You Die Blog Club
In conjunction with the 1001 Movies You Must See Before You Die project on this site, we're happy to be involved with the (re)launch of the 1001 Movies You Must See Before You Die Blog Club taking place at filmsquish.com. Look for more full length reviews of classic films, and check out filmsquish for plenty of alternate takes weekly.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
The Politics of the Walking Dead
This comes from a person who has all but given up on television thanks to the plague of reality television.
Heh. An apt analogy given the topic of discussion.. Anyway.
Thanks to the masterful storyline of AMC's newest masterpiece, the politics of the zombie are once again en vogue and the zombie once again takes its rightful place in the hallowed halls of proper scholarly discussion.
Don't laugh. I'm being serious!
To put it bluntly, George Romero is the horror genre's own Mark Twain and Night of the Living Dead isn't so much about zombies as it is a scathing indictment of society at large.
In order to understand the basis of Romero's critique, you have to ask yourself one important question: What is it about zombies that scares the hell out of you?
Let's examine what makes zombies tick... so to speak....
Zombies represent the very worst incarnation of social conformity as well as the complete destruction of individualism and self-determination. The people in life who you once loved or respected are replaced with rotting shells whose single motivation is the overwhelming need to eat you alive.
After you die (provided that there is enough of you left to re-animate), you will rise up and join them in their task until every last living person is wiped off of the face of the earth.
The [REC] films put an interesting spin on this idea. Over the course of the movies, the audience eventually discovers that the zombies are not so much zombies in the traditional Romero sense as they are terrestrial extensions of a malevolent supernatural force.
Being "dead" in the [REC] movies not only means that you lose your free will; it also means that you lose your immortal soul.
Zombies don't eat because they are hungry; they eat for the sake of eating. Furthermore, unless zombies are in pursuit of a meal, they are content to meander about in the well documented shambling gait.
In short, zombies are the epitome of two of the Seven Deadly Sins; those being Sloth and Gluttony. It is no accident that Romero chose the zombie as the vehicle to criticize American society about its wanton fascination with consumerism.
Society's need to "have" is just as destructive to the body politic as the zombie's need to "eat." Neither impulse is driven by natural behavior and the satisfaction of that impulse usually takes a decidedly violent form.
If humans don't get what they want, they take it...
So do zombies... and both parties do this without consideration for supply.
Whether it be brains, cheeseburgers, or crude oil, the primary preoccupation of both human and zombie societies appears to be not only to take until there is nothing left; it is also to take without leaving something of value in return.
Whomever dies with the most toys wins and whomever is undead and eats the most brains wins.... sort of...
Romero's shopworn criticism of rampant consumerism is further coupled with a scalding critique of materialism and suburban flight in the 1978 sequel, Dawn of the Dead.
There is a specific reason why the primary set piece of this film is a shopping mall. Poor Zack Snyder did not figure that part out in his 2004 remake. Next time you watch the remake, listen very closely and you just may catch the sound of the "whoosh" of the principles of the first film sailing over his head.
Despite the ever present hordes of brain-sucking shufflers, the zombie itself is only part of the zombie film equation.
And before you ask the question, my answer is "no." Zombies are not supposed to run.
The sensation of dread you feel during zombie movie chases comes from the awful realization that you are outnumbered.
Zombies don't have to chase after you because there is nowhere for you to hide. Their numbers will infest every nook and cranny in the world. The world doesn't belong to you anymore; it belongs to the shamblers and eventually they will find you.
They won't discover where you are because they are actively looking for you. They will find you simply because there will be no place on earth where they will not be present, and they will always be on the hunt because they will never rest.
Consequently, if you are a zombie at the time when the zombie apocalypse goes down, then your worries are usually over. The real story of any good zombie movie deals with how the death and undeath of civilization affects the survivors.
The tragic conclusion of Night of the Living Dead is nigh-legendary in the halls of horror cinema. The brave African American protagonist, Ben (Duane Jones), manages to survive the zombie onslaught only to be mistaken for a ghoul by a posse of rednecks, shot dead, and subsequently thrown onto a burning pyre.
In Dawn of the Dead, a biker gang shows up to the shopping mall to loot the stores and manages to become just as big of a menace to the survivors inside the mall as the zombies lurking outside.
28 Days Later (Come on now. It's a zombie movie when you think about it...) showcases a unit of psychotic British soldiers determined not only to outlast the infected hordes, but they also intend to repopulate the UK via a system of female sexual servitude.
Even, the survivors of the Day After in The Walking Dead painfully begin to realize that zombies are just another ornament on the Tree of Woe, as the series (in the true Romero-style edutainment spirit) tackles every socio-political hot button issue from racism (just like Night of the Living Dead did!) to spousal abuse.
Whether living or dead, the human monster is the most dangerous one of all.
The discussions that these films generate, tragically enough, are timeless debates because the social inequalities that they address are as present as they ever were, and we should have these discussions while we still have time.
The cautionary moral of the zombie fable is that one morning when we least expect it, the last grain of sand in mankind's hourglass will fall and social divides will no longer be defined by have and have-not.
On one side, there will be the quick and on the other side.. there will be the dead..
On that advent of the undead armageddon, all men will find themselves on equal footing... whether they like it or not....
Free at last....
Free at last....
Monday, November 22, 2010
Saw I, II and III and the Art of Torture: A Retrospective
Monday, November 15, 2010
Capsule Review: Blackmail (1929)
Often considered the first British talky (and certainly the first to make extensive use of sound recorded on set) Alfred Hitchcock was actually filming a silent adaptation of Charles Bennett's play when John Maxwell of British International Pictures asked him to film sections in sound. Instead, Hitchcock re-filmed almost the entire film ,which is why there are two versions of the film that now exist. After killing a would-be rapist, Alice White (Anny Ondra – who was dubbed on set by Joan Barry) flees the scene, only to have the incident discovered by her Police Detective boyfriend Frank Webber (John Longden) who helps her until thief Tracey (Donald Calthrop) tries to blackmail the couple. While fairly straightforward plot-wise, many of Hitchcock's trademark flourishes are on display: from moments of tremendous black humor, a climax featuring a famous landmark (in this case the British Museum), and one of Hitchcock's most pronounced cameos. He also makes great use of his new tool, particularly during a breakfast scene where Alice's guilt is magnified by the conversation becoming a blur of sound, with the word "knife" continually stabbing through. Great fun, and a sign of Hitchcock's true arrival.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Capsule Review: Inglourious Basterds (2009)
After a set of films mythologizing the exploitation films of his youth, you could be forgiven for thinking that Quentin Tarantino's Inglourious Basterds – which was initially presented as a remake of Enzo G. Castellari's 1978 Dirty Dozen rip-off The Inglorious Bastards – would continue the trend. Instead, while the film embraces the gritty set pieces of war films (and includes a references to Castellari's films and others) it's a strikingly brave and original piece that shows Tarantino's writing – this time being delivered by an international cast of actors – has evolved significantly. Initial audiences – particularly during its debut at Cannes – seemed confused by the revisionist World War II tale, but upon release it was immediately embraced, particularly the performance of Christoph Walz who walks away with his scenes as the "Jew Hunter" Col. Hans Landa and nabbed a best supporting actor Oscar for the role. While the long scenes of dialogue seemed to get tiresome in his previous film Death Proof, here they build to moments of incredible tension with some immediate (and often violent) payoff. Tarantino's best film since Pulp Fiction.
Capsule Review: Bus 174 (2002)
A tense stand-off between police and a gunmen who has taken hostages on a bus in Rio de Janeiro on June 12th 2000 becomes a meditation on media, urban violence, prison conditions, political manoeuvring and plenty of other thought-provoking topics in José Padilha and Felipe Lacerda's incredible documentary. The film continually flashes to the confrontation – shown live on television – as the armed Sandro do Nascimento threatens violence against a group of women, while also examining Sandro's tragic upbringing and the culture of violence that exists in the street community in which he was raised. The film raises conflicting emotions as you both sympathize and villainize the young man who has experienced so much tragedy in his short life, while your frustration inevitably grows at the police who seem unwilling or unable to do anything to stop the proceedings. Things get unbearably tense as the confrontation comes to a head, and you'll likely be left shaking your head at what you've seen. A thought provoking and powerful film.
Capsule Review: Anvil! The Story of Anvil (2008)
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Capsule Review: Paranormal Activity (2007)
Nearly a decade after The Blair Witch Project took the film world by storm, the found footage genre exploded once again with the release of this micro ($15,000) budget shocker. Utilizing a simple but ingenious concept – a couple decide to videotape themselves sleeping to attempt and witness unusual behaviour – the film takes two strong performances and some minor but effective special effects and manages to create an appropriately creepy and unpredictable atmosphere. Repeat viewings may not reap similar rewards, but director Oren Peli deserves credit for knowing just what buttons to push and manages to create some memorably shocking images considering the necessarily stationary camera. Followed by a more flashy but less effective sequel, and a bevy of imitations.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
The Green Slime (1968)
This is a rather big cheat, as though i'm writing this for the Wildgrounds Japanese Blogathon it's actually an international production - though co-produced by Toei Company and lensed in Japan - with an entirely English speaking cast. That said, it was directed by the late, great Kinji Fukasaku (who had a long career directing genre films, but might be best known for helming Battle Royale) and features plenty of miniature special effects by Toei's usual Godzilla film crew, so i'm thinking it should still count. Add in the fact that The Green Slime has just been released in beautiful widescreen through the great folks at the Warner-Archive and I don't think the timing could be much better. Considering how long the film has only been available in muddy, painfully cropped VHS versions, this new version is practically a revelation.
Which isn't to say that this film is sterling. Even compared to the rough approximation of science expected in sci-fi films of the time, this one will consistently be having you scratch your heads. Despite coming out the same year as 2001: A Space Odyssey, the special effects in The Green Slime are more than a little rough around the edges, though have plenty of goofy charm. When you see a space station burning in space, sending smoke spiraling upwards you sort of just have to go with it. Combine with performances that run the gamut from stiff to uptight, and settings that represent that special 1960s view of the future (go-go boots, miniskirts and lots of flashing lights) and you're in for a very specific kind of pleasure.
It's the future and Commander Jack Rankin (Robert Horton) is pulled out of his impending retirement when some brainy science people at the United Nations Space Command discover an asteroid headed towards planet earth. Jack is plenty conflicted about his past - particularly his former friendship with Commander Vince Elliott (Richard Jaeckel from The Dirty Dozen) - but accepts the (apparently suicide) mission to plant charges on the asteroid, despite having to prepare for the mission on space station Gamma-3, which is currently Commanded by.. Vince Elliott. Are you getting all of this?
To make things even more complicated, Vince's current fiancée is Dr. Lisa Benson who used to be Jack's gal and still has rather obvious feelings for him, much to the perpetually intense Vince's chagrin. Despite the hard feelings, Vince volunteers to join the mission and the group successfully carry out their mission thanks to some heroics from Rankin. However, the scientist guy they brought along found a green slimy life form on the planet, and accidentally brought some of it back with him. You may be wondering if this slime feeds off electricity and rapidly grow into tentacled creatures that run amuck around the space station, and your suspicions would be correct.
Despite in-fighting, Jack and Vince decide to corral the creatures - who have the ability to heal themselves and procreate from a drop of blood - into a section of the space station and blow it up real good. When this proves only to litter the side of Gamma-3 with the creatures - realized in one of the film's crummier effects - Rankin makes the decision to evacuate the space station before demolishing the whole thing. There are lots of rubber suits, heroic sacrifices, and plenty of the titular green slime to go around.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Fish Story (2009)
The blurb on the back of the DVD cover reads: "FISH STORY weaves together several seemingly separate storylines taking place at different points in time over a 37-year span to explain how a little punk rock song can save the world." That's an intriguing premise, for sure. Can a song save the world? If you're going into this film, you're probably thinking, "yes, yes it can," since it's unlikely that someone will make a film about how a song can't save the world. And you'd be right.
What's perhaps quite surprising is the way that the song--performed by Gekirin (Wrath) and entitled "Fish Story"--manages to pull off this particular bit of salvation. This isn't a metaphoric or poetic saving of the world; people don't get together to sing it, fighting back injustice, oppression, etc., in the face of adversity. No, "Fish Story," the song, manages to directly influence events in just such a way that Earth's inevitable demise is staved off. Thank god for that.
But I'm getting ahead of myself. FISH STORY begins in 2012, with a comet hurdling towards Earth. This isn't the same premise as ARMAGEDDON--this is a deliberate ripoff of ARMAGEDDON. Even the plan to save the world is similar. In any event, instead of worrying about the future, one young man decides to go to the record store, and pick up an old album, which features--you guessed it!--"Fish Story." And so the tale of that song begins to unfold...
First we travel back to 1982, where a shy and submissive young'un named Masahi is introduced to "Fish Story" by his incredibly annoying and abusive 'friends.' Masahi (Gaku Hamada), chauffeuring his friends to a rendezvous, overhears that "Fish Story" is haunted; indeed, it has 60 seconds of silence, right in the middle of the track. The tape (remember, this is the 80s) warns that this isn't an error--the silence is deliberately there. But, his friend explains, some people don't hear silence. Some hear a woman screaming! And if you happen to be that someone, well, watch out, cuz your days are numbered. Not only is this a great urban legend, but it sounds exactly like the plot of so many recent J-horrors.
So, what happens to Masahi? Unfortunately, this is one of those films where, to explain it, I'd essentially be ruining the ending. You're not provided with the end of Masahi's story, before we time-travel to 2009, and a mini action movie/love story set on a boat, with a hero who has been specially trained (since birth) to fuck dudes up. Kind of like Steven Seagal's UNDER SEIGE. But not as good. And then--whiz, bang--we're back in 1975, to see how "Fish Story" was recorded in the first place. All the while, we keep checking back in to 2012, where--you guessed it!--a group of international astronauts have hatched a scheme to explode that naughty comet. Way to go, fellas!
Far and away the strongest part of the film is the final, oldest story: the 1975 genesis of the song that the whole movie revolves around. The actors are believable as a band, and not only a band, but a punk rock band. And that's hard to pull off; an actor with some ratty clothes and funny hair usually just looks like a fucking poser. More to the point, the actual song, "Fish Story," is an incredibly catchy piece of punk rock.
As you can probably tell, none of the individual sections of the movie provide the viewer with anything new. The journey of a submissive guy growing a pair, a hostage-taking and ass-kicking scenario, an unpopular band fighting to find its voice, a doomed planet--this is all tried and true stuff. Yoshihiro Nakamura's FISH STORY succeeds above all odds, because somehow it does make it all work. But you have to wait until the very last moment of the film. Until then, everything just kind of hangs there, tenuously. The film isn't helped by the fact that it, like a few recent Japanese films I've encountered (I'm thinking of LOVE EXPOSURE) looks like it was shot on the cheap, for a local cable channel. OK, that's probably an exaggeration; the best I can say is that the film itself doesn't look cinematic. It looks more like a soap opera. Still, FISH STORY tells a good yarn; like its namesake, a very regular tale (the story of a song) becomes bigger. And bigger. And bigger...
Dororo (2007)
Tezuka-san's stories have followed me all of my life and I am a better person for it. As I child and later as a teenager, I yearned for respect much like Kimba the White Lion and as a father I have pondered the mistakes of Professor Tenma from Astro Boy and have learned the true value of fatherhood and will always appreciate the blessings that come with raising a child.
In 2006, I heard that Dororo was going to be made into a feature length film. That bothered me because I wasn't terribly sure how well Tezuka would translate into live-action. The animated versions of Astro Boy and Kimba the White Lion were entertaining enough kiddie fare, but they really weren't allowed to explore the depths that Tezuka did in the manga.
As a motion picture, Dororo has quite a bit going for it but it suffers from some of the same issues that Blood: The Last Vampire did.
The tale begins in feudal Japan with the warlord Kagemitsu Daigo (Kiichi Nakai) suffering a horrible military defeat. Kagemitsu seeks shelter in a remote temple and in his rage and despair, makes a pact with 48 evil spirits. He agrees to give each spirit (referred to as a demon in the English subtitles but more in flavor with the yōkai of traditional folklore than the demonic oni) permission to take one of the body parts of his unborn son in exchange for dominion over his enemies.
As a result, Kagemitsu's son is born with no limbs or facial features to speak of. In despair, Kagemitsu's wife sets their child adrift along a river in a style befitting Moses of Old Testament fame and the child is eventually plucked from the jaws of death by Dr. Honma (Yoshio Harada, whom some will recognize from Rônin-gai and the Christopher Lambert ninja vehicle, The Hunted).
Honma is no ordinary doctor; he specializes in alchemy and in yet another Tezuka plot device inspired by Frankenstein, Honma roams the country side and collects the dead bodies of children butchered in village raids during Kagemitsu's return to power. Honma then distills the corpses and uses the essence to create prosthetic devices that will allow Kagemitsu's heir apparent to function as a normal human being.
But Honma doesn't stop there. His final procedure gives the child use of a pair of magical swords grafted to his forearms and hidden away by his prosthetic hands. Eventually, the yōkai track the child down and kill Dr. Honma while trying to eliminate Kagemitsu's heir and then the story begins in earnest as Kagemitsu's heir (who eventually earns the name "Hyakkimaru" and is played by heartthrob, Satoshi Tsumabuki) embarks on a quest to kill the 48 yōkai and regain his lost humanity.
The hitch being that every time Hyakkimaru kills a yōkai, part of him returns to flesh and blood. As he regains his humanity, Hyakkimaru loses the invulnerability and preternatural ability afforded to him by his magical prosthetics.
If you're thinking, "So it is like a jidai-geki version of Edward Scissorhands," you would not be too far off of the mark.
The titular "Dororo" (Kou Shibasaki) is a tough yet sensitive ingénue thief who runs afoul of Hyakkimaru while he is in pursuit of a jorōgumo (a type of yōkai who can take the shape of a beautiful woman, but whose true form is that of a monstrous spider) which claimed one of Hyakkimaru's legs as its price for lending its aid to Kagemitsu.
Like Hyakkumaru, Dororo "earns" her name rather than simply being born with one. She remains unfazed by the fact that Hyakkimaru is actually insulting her when he refers to her as "Dororo" (which supposedly means "little monster") or perhaps she doesn't care. It seems a small price to pay in exchange for a life of danger and excitement.
The rest of the film alternates through several misadventures with a portion of the other yōkai and concludes with the inevitable showdown between Hyakkimaru and his father, Kagemitsu.
Dororo finds that lesson insulting as Hyakkimaru is protected from the hardships of poverty. As a homunculus of sorts, Hyakkimaru doesn't need to eat, so he can't appreciate how horrible it is to go hungry. Should Hyakkimaru succeed in killing Kagemitsu, he'll be the heir to Kagemitsu's throne so Hyakkimaru can't appreciate what it is to be poor.
The problem that plagues Dororo is the same one that plagues the previously mentioned (and reviewed) Blood: The Last Vampire and that is laughable special effects. The yōkai in the movie alternately are represented by actors in ridiculous costumes, cringe-inducing models, or some of the most underwhelming CGI since The Mummy Returns. It really is regrettable that such a potentially powerful story is undermined by this technical issue.
The yōkai are a key element of the plotline so you'd think that they'd be presented in a manner proportionate to their relative importance to the story. They don't necessarily have to be so terrifying as to generate nightmares, but you'd hope that a respectable part of the budget would be spent making the yōkai as impressive as possible.
But, we're talking about Japan here; the nation who made an art form out of guys dressed in rubber lizard suits smashing their way though cardboard mock-ups of Tokyo.
The unintentional humor injected in the story by the chuckle-worthy yōkai provides moments of levity which serve the admirable purpose of keeping Dororo from collapsing under the weight of absolute despair (there are some scenes in the movie which are genuinely touching) but even so, it'd be nice if the yōkai provided a bit more menace.
I'm not so dense as not to recognize deliberate camp when I see it. I just think that the profound parts of this movie serve us better than the humorous ones. Dororo is a tale of the struggle between the giving of one's self versus the sacrifice of others to serve one's own selfish desires and that is a timeless morale that everyone should try to appreciate.
It should probably go without saying but Hyakkimaru only tracks down about half of the yōkai during the course of this particular movie, so the promise of sequels is out there. I'd actually like to see how the tale (and the relationship between Dororo and Hyakkimaru) progresses, so here's hoping that a follow-up film comes out very soon.

subset: commoncrawl


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This is absolutely true! I think most of us who are working in the office thinks the same way like I do. Do you agree? =)
Back to reality
After our 5 days tour in Japan it's time to get back to reality and back to busy days at work. It's really fun during our tour in Japan and had funny moments during our stay there. It was really a memorable tour for me. The next few days I will be uploading our pictures during our Japan escapade.


text: I came across a good MSDN article about a plugin feature that I personally think most people overlook. That feature is SharedVariables. It is a way to pass data from the pre event to the post event in your plugin so that your post event plugin can use the data as needed. It is probably very rare that you would ever need to use this functionality (I've only used it once out of the dozens upon dozens of plugins I've developed) but it is good to know it exists.


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PRO+ Premium Content/E-Books
Access your Pro+ Content below.
Automation in ALM: The changing world of automated software testing
Read this e-book to discover a series of expert articles covering: six tips for selecting automated test tools for Agile development; when it's appropriate to automate software testing and best practices for implementation; the important role of automated UI testing in exploratory testing; and how automation is changing the role of the software tester.
Table Of Contents
- Six tips for selecting automated test tools for Agile development
- Test automation: When, how, and how much
- Testing the user interface: Automated and exploratory testing
- Is automated testing replacing the software tester?


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Enhanced Backing Rolls
This new style of roller was designed to be easier to install and less expensive than your traditional backing roll. Each assembly comes with two shafts and a center roller. Once you have purchased the initial assembly, when it comes time to replace a worn backing roll, all you need to purchase is the center roller. These rollers are capable of being installed on any Model 60, 75, or Saber 75 slicer. Click here to view more details.
Slice Thickness Indicator Kit
This kit will help slicer operators when they need to adjust the lattice from one slice thickness to another. This also comes in handy when cranking your lattice open to blow out the crumbs...you know exactly which number to crank it back down to.
Once the kit is installed and you have set up your numbers, you will know exactly what number to crank to each time. For example, if your 1/2" slice thickness is # 345 and your 5/8" is # 456, your operator will know exactly what number to crank to. Click here for more information.
Safety Discharge Guide Rails
These new, ratcheting-style guide rails were engineered to be safer and easier for slicer operators to adjust. On the old-style rails, operators had to turn two star-wheels, one at the end of the slicer and one inside of the machine, near the blades, in order to adjust the discharge rails. Now, with our new safety guide rails, adjustment is done outside of the machine with one, easy maneuver. Click here to see more.


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Earlier this week I shared two travel-related posts, 7 Things You Must Do Before International Travel and How To Pack a Suitcase (3 weeks worth of necessities in a small carry-on and personal item!). It's only appropriate that I end the week with one more travel post!
How to Pack a Carry-On Suitcase (for 3 weeks!)
When given the choice between checking my bags or taking them with me on the plane, I always choose the latter. I have heard too many lost-baggage stories from close friends, family, and even strangers. I don't want that to happen to me!
7 Things You Must Do Before an International Trip
As I prepare for my trip to Hong Kong and China next week, I keep coming up with tasks I have to take care of before I leave. Long trips and international travel are exciting times ahead. But before you slip into full-on vacation mode, here are a few key things you need to do before jet-setting.


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Gaynor Highcock- Head Teacher
My name is Gaynor Highcock and I am the Head Teacher at Ysgol Llandrillo-Yn-Rhos. I have worked as a member of staff at the school since 1998. I have had experience teaching most year groups from Nursery to Year 6. I have enjoyed watching the school go from strength to strength and am delighted with the opportunities we are able to offer pupils.
James Lusted - Chair of the Board of Governors
My name is James Lusted, I'm married to Chloe who is a former pupil at Ysgol Llandrillo Yn Rhos. I was elected as a County Councillor in May 2017 for the Llandrillo Yn Rhos ward. I'm a member of Festival Church in Chester and actively involved on their team. I currently sit on the Board of Directors for Disability Sport Wales.
I'm an actor and TV presenter and have appeared in various programmes and stage productions professionally. I'm a keen sportsman and have competed nationally and internationally in Badminton and I had the honour of carrying the London 2012 Olympic Torch through Rhos on Sea. I like to watch sport, especially football, I support Liverpool FC.
I'm a great believer in the next generation and passionate about seeing every child been given equal opportunities whatever their background or abilities. Every child has potential to go on and achieve their dreams
Catherine Smith
Louise Bourne
My name is Louise Bourne. I live in Rhos with my huband Neill and our three sons. I have been a primary school teacher for more than 20 years and have taught both infants and juniors. I currently work part-time in a school in Ruthin where I teach Reception.
I love being involved in what goes on at Llandrillo and always try to attend meetings/information evenings to keep informed about what is happening. I have also enjoyed taking part in Parent Council activities, Together Time sessions and school trips. I feel that my experience as both a teacher and a mum helps me in my role and that being a Parent Governor is an exciting opportunity to become part of this excellent school
Cllr Donald Milne
Don Milne has lived and worked in Llandrillo-Yn-Rhos for 37 years and was elected as Conwy County Councillor for the ward in 2012. Appointed school governor in 2012, he currently has cabinet responsibility for Environment Roads and Facilities.
An economist by training, he came to North Wales in 1973 to work at Llandrillo College where he introduced IT systems to the college, specialising i
n business systems development.
He moved to Buckinghamshire New University to develop Degree and Masters courses in Internet Tchnology, specialising in Network/Cyber Security. He has presented papers at confrences as far apart as Australis, the United States and across Europe on Information Warfare and Security.
As a great supporter of environmental issues, he is keen to see pupils encouraged to appreciate the environment around them, in particular the many natural features within our county of Conwy.
For relaxation, he enjoys all forms of theatre and performing. Over many years Don has produced, stage managed and performed with a number of our local drama and musical societies.
Cllr Dave Roberts
Nicola Hawley
Helen Ansell
My name is Helen Ansell. I'm married to Rob and I have four children. Three of my children, Bethany, Stephen and Benjamin, are former pupils of Ysgol Llandrillo Yn Rhos and I have another daughter now in Year 4.
I have been a primary school teacher for 20 years and at present I am Deputy Head teacher at Ysgol Llanddulas. In addition I have the role of ALNCO within the school.
I count it a privilege to work with children and I have been delighted to see how each one has flourished as they have progressed through their school years not only in the primary setting but also throughout Secondary and on to university or their chosen career.
For the past four years I have been the Chair of Governors at Ysgol Llandrillo Yn Rhos and it has been wonderful and exciting to see the enthusiasm of the children who have been supported by dedicated staff who truly put the well-being of the children at the forefront of everything they do.
As a Christian I am a team member of the New Life Revival Church in Colwyn Bay which I absolutely love!
My interests are singing, playing the guitar or piano, Zumba and meeting with friends and family.
My son, Benjamin and I are totally addicted to 'The Flash, Super Girl and The Arrow' and in our quiet times together - that is where you will often find us both!
I count it a joy and important responsibility to be part of the governing body of Ysgol Llandrillo Yn Rhos and will continue to offer support and bring challenge when needed.
Children in my class are encouraged by the quote from Martin Luther King JnR , which I would share with Pupils in this fantastic school:
'If you can't fly, then run, if you can't run, then walk, if you can't walk, then crawl but by all means, keep moving.'
Together, let's encourage our children to grow and set the standards for others to follow.
Paula Lawrenson
My name is Paula Lawrenson, I was born in Colwyn Bay and I have lived here all my life. I live with my husband and daughter. I work as a Teaching Assistant in Ysgol Llandrillo Yn Rhos which I am very passionate about, I am also a supervisor for the Ysgol Llandrillo Yn Rhos After School Club. Ysgol Llandrillo Yn Rhos has always been a big part of my life with 3 generations of my family having attended.
I have always been involved in the community and I am currently a leader in Brownies which I have been doing for the past 15 years.
In my spare time I am a keen walker and involve myself in charity work. Last year my husband and I walked the Leeds to Liverpool canal (128 miles) for the Walton centre, we raised over £1500.
Daniel Eames-Hughes
Des Jones


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Today's To Do List:
1. Apply for Australian E-visitor – check!
This could have easily been a disaster down to bad planning of mine. As I was in Australia at the beginning of the year, I already had an E-visitor which was valid for 1 year. This visa was due to expire 4 days before I was due to fly out of Australia! I wasn't sure whether I would be granted another one whilst one was still in existence, so I hit the submit button and waited in anticipation for the email from the Embassy. 5 minutes later, 'I wish to advise that a visa has been granted'. Phew!
2. Attend appointment with Travel Specialist for advice on vaccinations – check!
Luckily for me, being the pin cushion that I was last year, has saved me from having to have any further travel jabs. I, along with everyone I know, hates injections so when advised that I didn't need any I could have hugged the Travel Specialist! But with every 'up' there is always a 'down' – Malaria! Whilst in Thailand I am at low risk but as soon as I approach the border of Thailand and over into Laos and onto Cambodia I am in a high risk area.
I was given two options of malaria tablets – the cheaper option at 30p a tablet but was told I cannot drink alcohol and skin will be extremely sensitive to the sun – hmmm no drinking or sunbathing whilst travelling, kind of defeats the object!
Second option at £3.20 a tablet! Instantly I turned my nose up at this but the Specialist was keen to tell me that these tablets have little or no side effects, hence the price! Now, as a solo traveller, being sick as a side effect of tablets, drinking alcohol and causing the tablets not to work and therefore a higher possibility of contracting malaria is obviously a big concern and so I took my nose out of the air and I have decided to look around for the same tablets but at a cheaper price. And so, the search begins…
Not bad for half a days work.


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Once upon a time back in 2003 when LinkedIn launched, it was simply seen as a place where you posted your CV – then pretty much ignored until you were in the market for a new job opportunity.
And it's fair to say there will still be a proportion of those 546 million professionals listed on LinkedIn who haven't evolved their profile much beyond that.
To make the most of your profile you have to begin with a suitable photo, yet surprisingly a quick scroll through reveals lots of people have no photo at all. There goes a good chance to make a first impression – (though it's debatable if this is worse than some of the pictures you come across)…
So, here's our top tips to help you get more out of this professional networking platform.
Top tips – your profile
- Adding a photo to your profile makes you 36 times more likely to receive a message on LinkedIn
- Profiles with photos get 21 times more profile views
- Listing 5 or more skills in your LinkedIn profile will mean up to 17 times more profile views
- Profiles with professional headshots get 14 times more profile views
- Optimise your URL (to customize the URL on your LinkedIn profile on your profile page, click Edit Public Profile & URLon the right. Then under Edit URL, click the Edit icon next to your public profile URL. Enter your name without spaces and click Save) and your headline (this appears directly under your name).
Top tips – how to grow your connections
- The more first-degree connections you have, the more second and third-degree connections you have (don't panic – you can adjust your user settings to "protect" your connections so that nobody else can see or access them (even your 1st degree connections), along with your personal email, phone and so on).
- Post status updates regularly (ideally daily)
- Engage with your connections' updates
- Personalize your connection requests
- Add your LinkedIn URL to your email signature
- If you have an email database, you can import customer emails or email marketing lists and synchronize your email contacts with LinkedIn
- Join and participate in LinkedIn groups
- Add keywords to your profile
Top tips – your posts
- Users are 11 times more likely to read or click an article when you include a photo/video
- Quotes and stats tend to receive higher engagement
- How-to and list posts should be considered for optimum performance
- Long-form content gets the most shares (700 words+)
- Ensure imagery matches the messaging
- Posts split into 5, 7 or 9 sub-headings perform the best
- Articles with titles between 40-49 characters are most likely to work well
Top tips – your company page
- Companies with complete information get 30% more weekly views
- Include branded imagery to give your posts a slick and consistent look
- Use your company leaders to put a human face alongside key messaging
- If you have different business services, use showcase pages to give each its own unique space (see more on these below)
- Measure what's working – and what isn't – by using LinkedIn Analytics
Top tips – showcase pages
- Great content for these pages include how to's, industry articles and case studies
- Add images/video to make your posts stand out
- Try and post regularly (daily if possible)
- You can create up to 10 showcase pages for your company page (click on the admin tools menu on your company page to do this)
Whether you're just getting started on LinkedIn or have already used it as a salesperson or recruiter, changing your LinkedIn profile based on these tips will ultimately help get you noticed and help develop business leads.
And if you'd like some help with your social media marketing campaigns simply call us on 0333 0096266 or pop in!


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Products That Make Showering Feel Like a Spa Treatment
Catwalk Oatmeal & Honey Nourishing ShampooI've never been one to have a favorite shampoo. Ever. But there's really something about this one. I can't put my finger on it. It's comforting, perhaps it's the soothing oat scent. It lathers nicely & my hair feels squeaky clean without being stripped. I would totally repurchase this!
Philosophy Snow Angel Shower GelThis is a seasonal body wash for Christmas time that I got on sale a few months ago. I really love the iridescent shininess. It feels like a luxury experience, like liquid diamonds dripping onto your loofah & scrubbing away the dead skin cells on your body. Majestic.
Jade Lilly Papaya & Pineapple Face MaskThis product was sent to me last year as part of my Valentine's Day Gift Guide for Her. Simply add some powder to your hand & add a few drops of water until it creates a nice paste. I've come to use it whenever I want to feel like I'm having an at home spa experience. I love the tightening feel as it's drying.
St. Ives Green Tea ScrubSt. Ives scrubs have remained a staple in my life through the years. They're affordable & effective. I saw this green tea version at the store & said "why not?" The product itself is green & has a pleasant scent. The green tea leaves are carefully picked from China. The scrub isn't harsh & leaves my face feeling smooth as a baby's bum.
Topganic Treatment Hair Mask with Obliphica OilMy hair always feels like the silkiest thing ever after using this. I put the mask on every time I wash my hair, leaving it in for about five minutes. It makes my tangles super easy to get out & I will always, always use a hair mask from now on. I don't want to live my life with out it! The fragrance is lovely as well.
Sometimes you have to create your own spa experience, you know? From glittery body wash to green tea facial scrubs, these products make shower time feel way more luxurious than it really is. And I'm most certainly okay with that.


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Q: " I just realized I am allergic to latex. I had a mole removed from my arm and have a larger sore from the latex adhesive than from the removal. How do you know what size tubular stretch netting to buy? I used a gauze wrap this time but it is uncomfortable.. Thanks. Jill."
Answer: We sell Medline and Curad brands of tubular stretch netting that is latex-free.
Each roll is 25 yards long at the stretched length. Medline provides a chart in their catalog to choose the correct size.
This is the information about the Medline brands: Our product codes are ML-(Their Product Code)
Maximum Circulation
Product Code Size Stretch Width Relaxed Width Typical Use
I hope this helps. Just remember that the relaxed width is the amount that the product will stretch beyond the width stated. To hold a dressing in place, the netting needs to be correctly fitted.
tubular, netting, elastic, latex-free, wound, covering, net, medical product
home health products | medical products
Question Submitted to Ask Barbara Contest: "What are the top items you recommend for an emergency kit to keep at home?" Jacqueline
Answer: As I noted in my response to Jacqueline, giving an accurate list is difficult without more specifics. For example, does she live in a house or an apartment? Is it a cold or a hot location? Is it rural or city? Is she on well water or city water? (Some rural residents have propane or gasoline powered generators so that water or some power is available no matter what the situation.) Is she living in an earthquake zone, a flood plain, a tornado area?
This is an expansion of my response to her.
I do not know where you live or I could be more specific. These are not necessarily in the correct order. All homes should have these, in my opinion. The brand is not as important as having the items there. You can use rechargeable or battery lights.The Energizer Solar Lantern This unit has charging options that include solar panels, crank, primary batteries and car adaptors.This is an LED lantern with adjustable light output.
If you live in a southern climate, using solar panels to keep batteries charged to power a 12volt Koolatron cooler would be a great addition so you could have cool beverages and keep some food items from spoiling until the power returned. The solar panel I've included has a regulator on it so the 12V battery of your car, truck or RV won't be overcharged. What you don't want is a dead battery when you need to leave your home for a shelter or to get supplies when the emergency is over. A less expensive solar panel is the 50 watt Go Power solar panel with regulator
1. Flashlight or flashlight lantern and extra batteries
2.Weather Radio and extra batteries
3.Emergency medical kit. Also include at least a 7 day supply of Rx medications that you or family members require.
4. A survival kit either made by you or a company that includes drinking water,food bars,etc. Survivor Industries makes a variety of survival kits for different needs. The food and water both have a 5 year shelf life. This is a 3 day kit for 2 people This is a 3 day kit for 2 people. For a remote location or a flood or earthquake zone, I suggest you plan for a longer time without access to fresh or frozen foods. Small Office or Family Emergency Survival Kit by Survivor Industries offers both a medical kit and provisions to keep up to 5 people healthy and fed for up to 3 days. Both food and nutrition bars are included plus a deck of cards, tissue packs, flashlight, radio, etc.
5. The Aqua Pod fits in a bath tub and gives you water storage if you live in a hurricane, tornado or flood zone where your tap water will either not be available or its safety is in question. This unit includes a hand pump. The capacity is 65 gallons, enough for a family of 4 for 14 days. The unit includes three liners.
Thank you for your question and your entry into the Ask Barbara Contest.
survival, kits, first aid, kit, emergency, preparedness, weather radio, home, safety
emergency preparedness | first aid kits | flashlights | home safety | Survival Kits | thermoelectric coolers and warmers | water storage units | weather radio | solar panels
Q: "I live in California. I want to install a WaterCop to protect my condominum from future water damage. Our condo association was not happy, nor was I, when repairs from a leaking dishwasher caused over $20,000 in repair costs from a leaking water dispensing refrigerator leak. I am encouraging the entire condo association to install WaterCops and moisture sensors to add protection and keep our insurance premiums down. Does this unit meet the specifications for California lead? Thanks. Tom.
Answer: Dynaquip controls has added what are called "lead free" or "low lead" brass full port water valves as an option to their Water Cop line. These valves comply with the California AB1953 Standard as well as the Vermont S.152 Ultra Low Lead Law. The cost of these units is more because making brass with little or no lead adds considerable expense to manufacturing.
The electrical actuator and moisture sensors are identical to the original units.
To protect your condominium community, please advise your condo board that WaterCop units and sensors should be ordered pre-set from the factory. We've handled orders like this in the past. What we need to know is the number of units and the number of sensors and adapters (most prefer AC rather than battery powered sensors). By numbering the units say 1 through 50, your condo community can be assured that if there is a leak in say Unit 101, that the unit next door will continue to have water because the actuator and sensor settings will be different!
If your community plans to expand, the best approach is to have the WaterCop ready lead free valves installed during the initial construction. Then the actuators and water sensors can be added later just prior to occupancy. Why pay twice for a water valve!.
Currently, these units are available in 1/2 inch valve, 3/4 inch valve , 1 inch valve and 1 1/4 inch valve sizes. The 1 1/4 inch actuators and valves are more expensive: the power requires to quickly open and close the valve is higher for the larger valves. Remember you can reduce the size of a water line to fit a smaller valve. The most popular sizes are the 3/4 inch and the 1 inch.
Thanks for your question. Please contact us for a quotation when your condo association is ready to install the WaterCops. One condo association reported to us that they were close to being uninsurable until they installed the WaterCops. Then the yearly premiums dropped 15%.
watercop, water cop, lead free, water, automatic, valve, ball, moisture, sensor
automatic water valve alarm systems | commercial safety | Made in USA | safe drinking water | water alarm | water cop | water damage protection | water heater shut off | water inlet valve | water leak detection | water leak detector | water sensors | water shut off | water valve | watercop | lead free water valve
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Posted by B.Williamson on April 03, 2019
Ayr Rugby Club strives to be an inclusive community orientated organisation. The Club has one of the largest youth sections in the country, and co-funds the Ayr Community Rugby Trust (ACRT) which obtained charitable status on 1st March 2008. Through financial support from the SRU, South Ayrshire Council, The Stanley Morrison Trust and Co-operative Funeral Care, the ACRT administers and manages Development Officer, Stuart Fenwick. The ACRT also funds 50% of a SVQ student and additional part time coaches.
In the past year rugby sessions have been delivered to a total of 14,950 individuals (10,648 boys and 4,302 girls). There were 360 Primary school Sessions and 266 Secondary School Sessions. The Development Officer also delivered 3 Foundation courses to 48 coaches across Ayrshire, held a level 1 referee course and delivered a a street rugby programme in partnership with South Ayrshire Council.
All of this costs money and the Ayr Rugby Club committee and team of volunteers work tirelessly raising money to contribute to the running costs. Over the years the Rugby Club Events have grown both in size and status. The Fireworks Night is now the largest in South Ayrshire and The Land O'Burns Weekender is recognised nationally as the biggest and Best Beach Rugby Tournament. All our events are family focussed and welcome both members and non-members. So come along and join in!


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- January 26, 1928 - March 28, 2015
- Milan, Georgia
of Charles' Passing
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Charles was born on January 26, 1928 and passed away on Saturday, March 28, 2015.
Charles was a resident of Milan, Georgia at the time of passing.
Funeral Services Mexico will be held on Thursday-April 2, 2015 at the Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grants, New Mexico. Viewing will start at 9:30 AM till 10:30 AM and the Funeral will start at 10:30 AM. Burial will follow at the Pioneer Memorial Cemetery in Bluewater, New Mexico.


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Every once in a while we come across a piece of writing that really strikes a chord within us. It is like it is speaking to us directly and on the deepest of levels and creates a shift in perspective. Well, this is what this article did for me a few years ago when I first read it. I don't want to build it up too much, because different things work for different people, but there are some universal themes here to I think apply to everyone.
I will post the text of the article after this introduction and also a link to where it resides on the web. You should definitely check out more of Steve Pavlina's stuff if you are so inclined. There is some that is a little out there, but if I were you, I'd search by title and what appeals to you. Also, Steve has put all his work in public domain, allowing me to post freely.
The article is on the longer side; I would print it out and take it with you. Next time you are stuck waiting in line or otherwise have some time, read through it. Let me know what you think!
The Courage to Live Consciously
Security is mostly a superstition. It does not exist in nature,
nor do the children of men as a whole experience it.
Avoiding danger is no safer in the long run than outright exposure.
Life is either a daring adventure, or nothing.
To keep our faces toward change and behave like free spirits
in the presence of fate is strength undefeatable.
– Helen Keller
In our day-to-day lives, the virtue of courage doesn't receive much attention. Courage is a quality reserved for soldiers, firefighters, and activists. Security is what matters most today. Perhaps you were taught to avoid being too bold or too brave. It's too dangerous. Don't take unnecessary risks. Don't draw attention to yourself in public. Follow family traditions. Don't talk to strangers. Keep an eye out for suspicious people. Stay safe. Continue reading "The Article that Changed Your Life"


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[source: modeman-which you can find on carolinesmode.com/modeman, google images :)]
don't they look happy.lol. :D
if you know me you know that I'm completely inspired by men's fashion and men's style, even thought they don't have the same type of fashion freedom to do as women do [although the old rules of fashion are changing, avant-garde baby!], but there ability to make a look so simple look so inspiring by just adding a little bit of detail from the cuffs to the low socks they always find something that when you look close enough makes you go.....[yeah speechless, well that happens to me!]
my dad is also someone that helped me learn to appreciate detail and the family member who I get my fashion gene from and because of him I learnt less is more and detailing is everything [the influence to my designs]!!!
this is just part one of my style inspiration: men; here I'll do different types of men's wear styles in themes, I'm starting off with the GQ man, who pays attention to detail and adores sophistication in his looks and dresses like his being force to go to an event with his girlfriend with a smile on his face, every single day [24/7]
men's inspired style is my ideal sense of style and because I'm in Ghana and many people don't understand fashion [only of a niche of them do], and fashion here is looking expensive basically, personal style by expression isn't something you see very often...but if I had to bring up a look it would be men inspired, and as you know you environment can sometimes dumb down your true style and because you style isn't in demand [apparel wise] you're forced to make your own style using what everyone else is wearing...sad isn't it!! :(


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This jam is now over. It ran from 2015-09-11 14:00:00 to 2015-10-11 14:00:00. View results
Create a game or comic inspired by the words HELP, HOPE, HEAR
SPECIAL PROMOTION! If you use a song for inspiration from Every Day's Help? Hope? Hear? Album Fallon Braddy of Every Day will choose from the top contenders to become part of a zine distributed to fans at future tours. The zine will contain links to each contributors online portfolio or playable game!
Get inspiration by one or both of the following:
"...this album is meant to sympathize with brokeness of spirit & bluntly address the destruction of self-centered relationships. It was incredibly painful to write and produce this album, but I feel its harshness in communication has potential to create positive change..." - Fallon Braddy
No submissions match your filter


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UC Santa Barbara
Education Building - MC 9490
Santa Barbara, CA 93106
Phone: 805-893-3190
UC Santa Barabara
The UCSB Mathematics Project provides professional development programs for teachers in the Central Coast area/region. Located in the Gevirtz Graduate School of Education at the University of California, Santa Barbara, UCSB Mathematics Project offers research-based programs aligned with the Common Core, English Language Development, and Career & Technical Education standards that are designed to improve student understanding of mathematics.
January 14, 2020 - March 10, 2020


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Gisele Bundchen Threatened Tom Brady With Divorce – Report
Deflategate could have another victim: Tom Brady and Gisele Bundchen's marriage.
Us Weekly reports that Tom and Gisele have been having frequent fights ever since Tom was hit with a four game suspension last May.
"Tom's become very nasty and irritable and started acting out on her," says a source and they did not spend their birthdays together.
Gisele has consulted a divorce lawyer but it looks like she is still standing behind her man. She was seen in New York City last Aug. 31 during a Deflategate hearing.


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'Captain America: Civil War' Is Marvel's 'Empire Strikes Back'
Uncategorized May 7, 2016 War Is Boring 0
Cap's newest flick is a political thriller disguised as a superhero brawl
by MATTHEW GAULT
The Avengers are in shambles. Innocents died and the world no longer trusts them. Billionaire arms manufacturer-turned-walking weapon Tony Stark wants Capt. Steve Rogers to sign the Sokovia Accords.
It's a huge document that would give the United Nations oversight over The Avengers. Stark wants it. He thinks the world's heroes need limits, and he needs his friend and partner to sign it. So he busts out a matching set of beautiful fountain pens Franklin D. Roosevelt used to sign America into World War II.
Stark probably meant it as a gesture of goodwill; just a piece of nostalgia to push Cap in the right direction. But for Rogers, World War II isn't something read in the history books. Rogers didn't hear about the war from his father or grandfather. He fought the war. He remembers the Nazis, the madness and the camps.
Back at The Avengers' mansion, Stark has told Wanda Maximoff she can't leave. This bothers Cap. He thinks it's a sign of things to come. "It's internment," he tells Stark.
"I'm doing what has to be done to avoid something worse," Stark replies.
"You keep telling yourself that," Rogers says. He won't sign the accords, won't put himself in check. And just like that, a decade of on-screen friendship is over.
Captain America and Iron Man are at odds. And everything that comes after — the deaths, the destruction and unhealable psychic wounds — begins at this moment. The moment when a child of the Cold War tries to tell a man who fought World War II what is best for America. The moment when friend tried to manipulate friend with nostalgia.
That simple break allows Marvel to tell the greatest pop-culture tragedy since The Empire Strikes Back.
Captain America: Civil War is Marvel's latest summer superhero blockbuster. Like any good Hollywood summer action flick, it delivers on thrills, spectacle and action. But Civil War is so much more.
The film opens with The Avengers chasing down a villain in Lagos, Nigeria. The bad guy steals a nasty disease from a laboratory and the heroes stop him. But in saving the world, they accidentally kill 11 innocent humanitarian workers.
Aliens destroyed New York in The Avengers. Hydra almost leveled Washington D.C. in Captain America: Winter Soldier. Ultron — a villain Stark created — destroyed the entire Eastern European country of Sokovia in Avengers: Age of Ultron. But the 11 dead innocents in Nigeria is the straw that breaks the camel's back.
Captain America: The Winter Soldier [Blu-ray]
The world turns against The Avengers and the United Nations puts forth the Sokovia Accords — a beefy document signed by 117 countries. The accords aim to create a metahuman registration, grant the U.N. oversight and control over The Avengers and penalizes enhanced individuals who step out of bounds.
According to the U.S. Secretary of State, the world will no longer tolerate "U.S. born enhanced individuals who cross sovereign borders to inflict their will on others."
The accords divides the team. Half thinks the heroes need oversight and willingly sign, and the other half are wary. Civil War explores the explosive tension between the two sides.
Civil War's themes of collateral damage and the consequences of unchecked power is one of my favorite aspects of the movie, and a much needed relief from the sub-par superhero films on the market. One month ago, Batman and Superman destroyed Gotham and Metropolis. Millions surely died, but the film waved this away and pointed to the spectacle.
Marvel's universe contains glorious superhero spectacle, too, but it also dedicated an entire film to dealing with the geopolitical consequences of that spectacle. The actions these heroes take kill people. In war, there is always collateral damage. Innocents die no matter how justified the cause.
Stark, Rogers and the rest don't just get to walk away from that. They don't get to not feel guilty about murdering people. Because Marvel's heroes must face — often literally — the families of the people who died so The Avengers could save the world. This reckoning with death makes the Marvel films darker and grittier than anything Zack Snyder could hope to achieve with his dour D.C. Comics destruction porn.
Civil War's cast makes the heavy themes work. All the Avengers are back and they're all great, but Robert Downey Jr. as Stark and Chris Evans as Rogers elevate the film from pulp fun to instant classic.
The movie is an international political thriller full of amazing action and crazy set pieces. But those action sequences have weight because, on a basic level, Civil War is about the personal conflict between Stark and Rogers.
Stark kickstarted the Marvel Cinematic Universe in 2008 after an IED blew up his convoy in Iraq and terrorists took him hostage. Since then, he's been beaten half to death, almost died in space and witnessed a brutal vision of all his friends dying.
We first see Stark in Civil War demonstrating one of his failed projects for MIT students. The tool allows the user to summon up memories and alter them. He invented the tech after his parents died in a car wreck. He felt bad about how he'd treated them before they got on the road.
"All the things I did to avoid processing my grief," he sighs. That's telling. Stark still isn't processing his grief. He's a soldier drafted into a war he didn't want to fight and shot through with post-traumatic stress disorder. He drinks, can't keep personal relationships and experiences frequent panic attacks.
He created Ultron to keep the world safe and it made the world much worse. He wants to eliminate danger from the world by completely controlling it. He holds on so tightly to his obsession that it's amazing he didn't snap sooner.
Captain America is an old soldier who loves to fight. Even when he was a wimpy, scrawny kid getting beaten up in Brooklyn back alleys, he wanted to fight every fight. Cap doesn't pick battles, he rushes headlong into every one.
He, rightly, sees the accords as a limitation on his ability to indiscriminately deliver ass-whoopings to whoever he thinks is in the wrong. The fight doesn't effect him the way it does Stark because it's all he's ever known. He grew up defending himself from bullies and now only feels alive when he's running them down.
Running behind the conflict between these two is Daniel Brühl, who as a villain the less said about the better. Critics have long bemoaned the lack of compelling villains in the Marvel universe. Aside from Loki and Ultron, Marvel's bad guys are a rotating cast of generic action movie cliches.
Brühl is different. He is truly frightening and the most effective antagonist the Marvel universe has ever seen. I've been careful to avoid spoilers in this review. I think Captain America: Civil War is an incredible film that's best experienced with as little foreknowledge as possible. But I want to talk about the ending now.
Spoilers ahead.
Supergods: What Masked Vigilantes, Miraculous Mutants, and a Sun God from Smallville Can Teach Us About Being Human
Captain America: Civil War is so good and so incredible because it shakes the foundations of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. When good friends fight, as Stark and Rogers do, there are only two results. Either the superhero buddies slug and hug it out, or they fight for keeps, inflicting wounds that will never heal and saying things they can never take back.
Stark and Rogers' fight in Civil War is the latter. That's what makes this movie as impressive as The Empire Strikes Back. As the film reached its climax, I realized that it would be impossible to wrap up everything in the remaining running time.
There was no way to return to status quo. Hell, there was no status quo to return to. Rogers is a criminal now. The family Stark desperately wanted to hold together is in shambles. Captain America abandoned his shield and organized a jail break. He protected a friend he knew killed Stark's parents. There's no coming back from that.
For Stark to forgive Rogers, he'd first have to forgive himself, and I'm not sure that's in Stark's character. That's not a cliffhanger, it's the just way it is. There's no plot to resolve, just a new world to adjust to.
A world where good guys lose. A world where the bad guy wins and his actions are just. A world that will never be the same.
"An empire toppled by its enemies can rise again," Brühl says towards the end. "But one that crumbles from within. That's dead."
It's the most chilling line villain dialogue since, "I am your father."
- Whatever You Do, Don't Watch 'Special Correspondents'
- 'Whiskey Tango Foxtrot' Is 'M*A*S*H' on the Streets of Kabul
- Congress Is Robbing America's War Effort to Pay for Unwanted Weapons


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The Jayes Travel gift voucher is the ultimate present, reward or thank you.
Organising a gift voucher for your friends/family, colleagues/staff is easy and free! We customise each gift voucher with names and a personal message. It is an easy way to take the stress out of what to give.
Contact us on 1300 891 100 or email firstname.lastname@example.com for more information.


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Why TV In Australia Is About To Get Seriously Disrupted
In this opinion piece, Michael Gill the principal advisor with ChangePond Technologies and counsellor with global business advisory firm Dragoman argues that if the TV media overseas is any indication, Australian players are in for a rough and rocky 2016…
Consumers take a while to fuel, but when they get a tank full all bets are off. That's one lesson of digital disruption to date. Management consultants refer to it as the boiling frog moment: slow raises in competitive heat go unnoticed – and suddenly the frog is cooked.
Subscription TV and maybe even free-to-air TV are facing challenging times in 2016. We have heard plenty about Netflix. But very soon we'll also be hearing much more about HBO, Amazon, Google and maybe Alibaba as players in the business of video on demand.
In this context, pay TV is something of a sitting duck. Consumers pay high prices for a large number of often unwanted channels and a content offering that is programmed rather than on demand. Netflix offers a wide range of content that may be watched at any time. In markets like Australia where the cable monopoly bundle is less than rich in its offering, Netflix has cleaned up.
A clue to just how much pressure is on was in the fact that Foxtel/News/Telstra coughed-up unprecedented sums for the rights to both AFL and rugby league. It's worth noting that both the AFL and NRL have become increasingly careful about managing digital rights – a perhaps that the value in a future contract might be much more about streaming video.
Another surprising event was the decision of all free-to-air networks to flag or in some cases enable steaming video of their channels – all of which had been bundled in Foxtel's cable plan. What would happen if they followed the ABC and offered an on-demand option? Maybe it's too late in any case.
Assuming that international trends reach our shores, we should expect that Amazon Prime, Google Red and HBO will at some point crack the incumbent content rights in Australia and elsewhere to begin serious competitive inroads. HBO is in fact the market leader, but was restrained from rapid rollouts of its own direct offerings by the profitability of its established cable contacts and the success of shows like Game of Thrones. HBO has bitten the bullet and, as a result, it's now the biggest asset in Time Warner.
Google Red has yet to show its colours, but its intent was made clear enough when the content owners of all existing offerings in YouTube were required to sign up for its streaming plans. Amazon Prime offers entertainment in its subscription bundle, which ties in regular clients and is designed as both a loyalty program and an underwriting of its urban delivery model. Amazon has begun to commission exclusive content and its Chinese doppelgänger, Alibaba, is on a similar track.
The great game
All of these scenarios have begun to play out internationally. In Japan, for example, local content owners have scored a very large increase in value as the new entrants chase what is an essential for that market – local content. In fact Netflix doubled down in the case of animae productions, which it has decided to include in its international platforms.
In Australia, one cause of acceleration is likely to be the competitiveness of the data market. Until recently, there was very little. But in 2015 we saw a sharp rise in price tension and a noticeable willingness of the market leader – Telstra – to promote volume at lower prices. Uncapped plans are now common and that has to be a big incentive for users, once the value offerings like Netflix arrive.


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|Queen Máxima of The Netherlands visited Scoutinggroep Hubertus Brandaan in Voorburg on Tuesday 10 July 2018 for the kick-off of Roverway 2018, an international event for Rovers and Rangers between 16 and 22 years old from all over Europe and beyond, which is organised once every three years. Roverway 2018 is organised by a group of young people and is the biggest international camp in The Netherlands. Queen Máxima is the patroness of Scouting Nederland.
Queen Máxima attended the event of Roverway 2018 in Voorburg
20 comments:
Skirt or culottes? Either way I'm not keen - they make her look wider than she is. The outfit is ok - nothing that wows me although I quite like the shoes.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousJuly 11, 2018 at 12:37 AM
Something just not right with this skirt or whatever it is...ReplyDelete
Shoes are cute and her smile is always winning.
- AnonymousJuly 11, 2018 at 1:10 AM
Love it. She puts much more thought and preparation into her work than herself. And it shows, she is very intelligent.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousJuly 11, 2018 at 1:38 AM
Blouse and skirt are alright I don't like the shoes, the heel is to big. Her hair seems to be thinner then it was and a little more of an unkempt look.ReplyDelete
Love her. Great summery outfit but the hair ☹ReplyDelete
- AnonymousJuly 11, 2018 at 3:58 AM
Maxima is, in my opinion, the smartest royal woman. The most accomplished, the hardest working and the most pleasant personality. No other comes close to her except Victoria. The work that she does around the world in 'finance' and the help that women in need have received due to her work is unmatched by any other royal women including the 'beloved Diana'. This woman is incrediblly accomplished. Then comes Victoria who is also incredibly hard working with a very warm personality, followed by Letizia who is hard working but there's something about her personality that puts me off. The rest of the ladies are not even on my list. Kate is so shy yet so proud, I can think of NOTHING of importance she has accomplished in 7 years of public life. She can barely give a speech because she is so nervous....it's hard to watch her....I can't make it through a minute of her speech without worrying that she will have a heart attack any minute. Meghan has excellent skills when it comes to giving speeches. I am hoping she will do well as a royal and that she will use her platform to better the lives of people out there. Kate has missed the mark so far. It's been 7 years with nothing to show for when it comes to public life...except flipping her hair. Go Maxima. Her outfit is appropriate for the occasion. I happen to like it.ReplyDeleteReplies
- AnonymousJuly 11, 2018 at 5:23 AM
This is a fashion blog, you do know that right?Delete
- AnonymousJuly 11, 2018 at 2:52 PM
We all have our favorite royal/royals. This is not a place to go on a rant about them. This is about fashion.Delete
- AnonymousJuly 11, 2018 at 8:19 AM
I like this outfit. Lovely and summery.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousJuly 11, 2018 at 9:13 AM
A good skirt, good shirt, but not together. Looks to weird. But please Max, if you don't have the time to do your hair even a ponytail is better then this.ReplyDelete
Anonymous; Maxima did not do as much as a princess when kids were young. I think it is not fair to compare Catherine to her. Also their positions are very different, Maxima is queen, Catherine not even crown princess yet.ReplyDelete
I like shoes, bag, earrings and blouse, but those culottes do not talk the same language.ReplyDelete
I like the shoes and the earrings.ReplyDelete
The colour palette and styling of this ensemble do nothing for the queen. The shoes are awkward and her big earrings appear to be an effort to afford some up-style to an outfit, which, however, cannot be saved.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousJuly 12, 2018 at 8:22 AM
I wonder if sometimes, the clothes look better in person. The color can be lost here.ReplyDelete
Not one of Maxima's better looks.ReplyDelete
(We will not publish unnamed comments that were posted without stating a name or nickname) - Blogs allow for the posting of public comments. Posted comments must directly relate to the information and or topics of discussion on those blog. Comments that are moderated will be reviewed before posting. Comments that are not moderated will be addressed as soon as possible. We trust the community to ignore personal attacks, negative speech, and respond politely.


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Tom Beckstrand talks about the latest from Hornady and the difference between these 2 precision rifle cartridges (PRC).
Tom Beckstrand looks at two new AccuPower scopes from Trijicon.
SITKA Gear waterfowl product manager Jim Saubier shows off the company's full line-up of women's waterfowl hunting gear for 2019. From warm and moisture-wicking base layers to water and windproof outer layers, this is a complete system for women who love to chase fall and wintertime ducks and geese across the four flyways!
As Groves, Texas duck call maker Sure-Shot Game Calls celebrates their 60th anniversary during 2019, company CEO Charlie Holder shows off the limited edition Yentzen Classic aimed at commemorating the life and times of company founder Jim 'Cowboy' Fernandez. With a special autographed box and a laser engraved call body, the Cowboy Classic is a perfect way to honor the legacy of the 1959 world duck calling champ and inventor of the double-reed duck call.
Game & Fish Editor-in-Chief John Geiger and Jarrod Grove of Caldwell discuss the features of the Accumax Carbon Fiber Bipod at SHOT Show 2019 in Las Vegas.
Check out this interesting new tripod from Bog.
Game & Fish Editor-in-Chief John Geiger checks out Winchester's show-stopping 350 Legend cartridges at SHOT Show 2019 in Las Vegas.
Since hunters are often weighed down by carrying too much gear in their spring turkey vests, David Price of Avian-X shows a simpler and carefully thought out sling pack approach, one that is inspired by the fly fishing industry's recent trend towards similar packs. This new Avian-X sling pack is easily adjustable and allows for multiple calls and accessories in a smaller, easier to handle package as hunters slip through the spring woods in search of a boss gobbler.
David Price with Avian-X shows off the new HDR Jake turkey decoy that comes with two interchangeable heads guaranteed to drive a big boss gobbler crazy. Add in amazing ultra-realistic feather, leg, and head detail, not to mention a flocked back – this ultra-realistic offering is guaranteed to draw in the biggest gobbler of the season!
Mossy Oak unveiled yet another great camo pattern at SHOT Show 2019. And according to Jake Meyer, the Overwatch pattern is both the official pattern of the NRA and another effective means for hunters to find concealment in the woods as they celebrate 2nd Amendment rights and pursue whitetail bucks, ducks, geese, spring turkeys, bears, and Western big game critters.
Streamlight's Bobby Knight highlights new products for handguns.
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Laser Tag in Hamburg
What's Included
- x 3 rounds Laser Tag
- Equipment
- Instructions
- Play your own music
- Overview
Piaow piaow! Get your sci-fi on for a game of laser tag in Hamburg…like paintball without the bruising.
This is awesome for lads who want to indulge in their competitive instincts and geek out pretending you're in a classic science fiction movie. There's only one rule in this laser game: see how many times you can hit your mates on target…and by mates we mean the stag (well, he needs to be punished sometime – it's traditional!).
All necessary equipment, instruction, and x 3 games of laser tag, included in the price.
Note – You can play your own music while you play laser tag!
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call us on 020 7060 7060 orSend Us a Message


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by Eugenio Volpe Read author interview September 24, 2012
My wife died and then I sat around for six months trying to write a novel about loss. Nothing came, but I gained thirty pounds in the process. I kept it on for three years. It was not becoming. I was too poor to be fat. In the spring of my thirty-third year, I swam it all off and then some at the YMCA. When I could finally fit into my old shorts, I went to the beach and took off my shirt. It was the hottest June day on record. I might have thought it Armageddon but hell is icy cold, not scorching hot. So says Dante and he wrote the book.
I stood knee-deep in rolling sea foam, hands on hips, staring down at my washboard abs. I was in the best shape of my life. I thought so highly of myself that it caused my ears to pop. They rang like the Emergency Broadcast System. Only it wasn't a test. It was an actual emergency. I felt a terrifying euphoria that for lack of a better word could only be described as heavenly. Good thing I was already an atheist, otherwise it might have scared the Jesus out of me.
Feeling so high and mighty wasn't fair. I had no right. Her death had been a slow and painful one so I dove in and started stroking.
I crawled through the breaking surf and then butterflied towards the horizon. The ringing stopped but then came the whistles. I don't believe in lifeguards. Sink or swim. Few have the incapacity to take such a cliché literally. I ignored the chirpy warnings and continued flapping towards the end of the world. I wanted to rattle myself. I wanted to feel a tiny bit terrified. Who was I to have been so healed? The guilt gnawed at my gut like morning hunger. I wanted to feed it, but the surface was too warm and pleasant. I dove deep with open eyes and searched for my favorite foods. Lobster rolls. Fried clams. Baked stuffed shrimp. There was nothing down there but icy darkness and a golf ball. I don't play golf. It's too expensive, but I slid the ball into my back pocket just because. It was white as a ghost and the size of her tumor.
I was a touch panicked upon resurfacing, which was just fine. I didn't want to die per se. I only wanted to come close. I turned from the horizon and doggie-swam parallel to the shore. Two lifeguards were paddling toward me on oversized surfboards. They were still a way's off. It was probable they'd get to me in time, but to ensure the nearest near-death experience possible, I took a theatrical breath and dove to the bottom. I stayed there until the emptiness in my lungs exceeded that of my stomach and the icy depths caused my teeth to chatter the tiniest story known to man, which only takes the longest breath to tell, which left me barely enough air to reach the surface.
I emerged with a gasp, wishing for the fatty warmth and buoyancy of my former self. I was too skinny for the chills of hell. If and when the lifeguards saved me, I would tell them that I did it for the story; that I am a godless man trying to write his wife into eternity.
About the Author:
Eugenio Volpe has published work with New York Tyrant, Post Road, Superstition Review, Exquisite Corpse, Thought Catalog, Twelve Stories, Waccamaw, matchbook, decomP, Atticus Review, and more. He has won the PEN Discovery Award for his novel-in-progress and been nominated for Pushcart and Best of the Web prizes. He lives in Bristol, RI and blogs about surfing and Don DeLillo at mebeingbrand.blogspot.com.
About the Artist:
Thomas Deininger is a visual artist living in Bristol, RI. His large-scale found object assemblages have been collected and exhibited in collections and museums worldwide. He's currently exhibiting at The Gallery on Four India Street in Nantucket. This fall he'll be featured at the Fleming Museum in Burlington, VT.
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Part of the soon to be developed MUP in Mattapoisett Ma.
Back in 1976, some 31 years ago, the smart folks over at SRPEDD had a terrific idea.
Wouldn't it be great if the cities and towns of Bristol County had bike paths where local folks could have some fun, get some exercise, and even get around short distances without using fossil fuels?
If you're old enough to remember 1976, you know that was the last time the country faced a Middle East oil crisis.
The folks at the Southeastern Massachusetts Regional Planning and Economic Development District even envisioned a classy bike path that would start in Fairhaven, run through some breathtaking SouthCoast scenery, and end up at the Cape Cod Canal
Read the whole article here
My favorite spot on the MUP in Fairhaven, Ma.