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FrontLine has a complex and extensive history across different facets of retail, but the one constant has been the unwavering focus on its members
In the Beginning
The foundations for the current FrontLine were established in 1931 when four Victorian retailers formed a cooperative known as Newtorian Merchants Pty. Ltd. to achieve better terms with their supplier base.
1931 – 1961
The membership grew from the four inaugural stores to 27 stores, mostly department stores and predominantly from Victoria. A main focus of the group at this time was on the coordination of promotional buying & catalogues.
Newtorian Merchants expanded its membership into other states.
January – 1985
The newly formed company, Frontline Stores Australia Ltd. began operation.
1985 – Today
FrontLine continues its member focus, and today boasts over 700 independent retail members, who operate across diverse categories, from traditional mens & ladieswear, through to outdoors, sports & home living. FrontLine's focus remains on strengthening the relationship between Australian suppliers and the small to medium independent retailers that are the back bone of the Australian economy. As such, our array of services now includes licensed brands, independent retail trade shows, group buying opportunities and online retail and wholesale websites.
Other major milestones:
The SPORTFIRST Licensed brand for sport was launched.
The blue sky brand licensed brand was created to support the outdoor, camping and fishing category.
The holySheet! brand was bought as a franchise and continued to be managed by FrontLine after being re-modeled into a licensed agreement.
Frontline delivers its first online retail website template to Sleep Doctor in Campbelltown.
FrontLine Australian Buying Event (FABE) was created as a genuine industry trade show.


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Reviewed by: Raphael Vera
|Jessica Alba … Marissa Cortez Wilson
Danny Trejo … Machete
Antonio Banderas … Gregorio Cortez
Alexa Vega … Carmen Cortez
Jeremy Piven … Timekeeper
Daryl Sabara … Juni Cortez
Ricky Gervais … Argonaut (voice)
See all »
|Robert Rodriguez
|Dimension Films
Troublemaker Studios
See all »
|Dimension Films
"Saving the world is their idea of family time."
Marissa Cortez Wilson (Jessica Alba) is a top agent for the OSS, the spy ring first introduced in the original "Spy Kids," and she is also very much pregnant during her final mission to catch arch enemy and time manipulator Tick Tock (Jeremy Piven).
In fact, no sooner does she catch the bad guy then she has to drive herself to the hospital to give birth. Her husband Wilbur (Joel McHale) and step kids Rebecca (Rowan Banchard) and Cecil (Mason Cook) are there to meet her and know nothing of her real job nor of her decision to retire and raise a family.
One year later, Tick Tock escapes, and worse, he has teamed up with the mysterious Time Keeper who has been stealing the world's time, thus speeding up time for all of us. Hours are gone in minutes, and as clocks visibly speed up toward "Armageddon," the OSS enlists Marissa to lead the mission. She is joined by her niece and nephew, the original Spy Kids, now a grown up Carmen and Juni, as well as her step kids who have learned her secret and want to help, before time comes to an end for all of us.
Language: Minor. The only mention of God's name is once when Marissa is going into labor and cries, "Oh God." Wilbur mutters, "Jeez" under his breath, but it's almost inaudible. During a transport scene, Rebecca's head is temporarily transposed on Cecil's backside, and he calls her a butt head. Carmen, surrounded by bad guys, says her staple, "Shitaki Mushrooms," in lieu of a curse. In short, besides the expected barbs that brothers and sisters normally call each other, the language was refreshingly tame and family friendly.
Violence: Mild to moderate. However, it should be noted that the violence is more stylized comic action than violent. There are plenty of fighting scenes, but the peril level never seems high. For example, in one scene, Marissa goes into action while holding the baby in a chest hugging baby sling. No moms or babies were harmed during the filming of this picture. The villain's henchmen carried large blasters that destroy the Wilson house, but the most outrageous scene has to be Cecil throwing bags of his vomit at the henchmen.
Sex/Nudity: None. There wasn't even sexual innuendo, as is often heard in many family films.
Male/Female Role Modeling: There is nothing objectionable in having a strong female character, but it does seem commonplace to contrast one by a weaker and often oblivious male, as is the case here with Marissa's husband Wilbur. His profession as TV's "Spy Hunter" makes his prowess as one even more diminished, considering he married a spy and has never discovered it. Marissa is clearly seen as the attentive mom, while he is usually absent at work. During one odd scene, the villain Tick Tock tip toes rather effeminately, not to mention the fact that his voice is also a shrill, high pitched un-manly caricature.
When Marissa first retires she tells her boss that she isn't going to tell her family that she was a spy. He tries unsuccessfully to convict her against this by saying, "Life is too short for secrets."
One of the many promises that are made in the Word of God includes one for those that lead truthful lives.
"Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies" —Psalm 34:12-13.
At one point a character observes that, "Adults over think things. To a kid, nothing is impossible." This reminded me how, as adults, it's our natural tendency to believe our reasoning is all we need to rely on, thereby limiting the miracles that can be ours, if we only approach God with a child like faith and just believe!
"Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these" —Matthew 19:14.
The Time Keeper ends up being a tragic figure, motivated by a single goal and spent his whole life pursuing it. Our Lord Jesus tells us there is only one treasure that we should seek with such fervor.
"Again, the kingdom of God is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it" —Matthew 13:45.
"Spy Kids 4: All the Time in the World in 4D" is a kids' movie all the way and much of the adult appeal, very present in the exceptional first "Spy Kids" movie, has unfortunately lessened with each sequel. Similar to "Spy Kids 3," the film makes high use of 3D effects with "in your face" action plus the added use of a scratch card for "Aroma-Scope" effects. This delighted the half of the kids able to make the card work, but seemed a distracting gimmick. Positive messages throughout make "Spy Kids 4" a family friendly film, but you'll wish the kids could have seen this without you.
See list of Relevant Issues—questions-and-answers.
PLEASE share your observations and insights to be posted here.

subset: commoncrawl


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Not what is, Gerald, not what-what-what IS.
You just see what you you YOU want, what you WANT, to see, you see, Gerald.
Do you see? Do you see? It's-it's-it's-it's BEYOND, blindness, BEYOND… I can't even-even-even TELL, you see, I can't even TELL if you see, if you see the truth in the first place, in the first place, Gerald, in the first place. It's like, it's like, it's LIKE YOU SEE and you DON'T, you see, you see and you DON'T see, at the same time, you see.
I-think-I-think-I-think that's WORSE, Gerald, that's WORSE than blindness. It's so much-Much-MUCH WORSE, Gerald.
You see, you don't see… but nor-nor-nor are you BLIND, Gerald, you're not blind you're not blind you're not you're NOT, you see.
You're deluded. You're stuck-stuck-stuck in what you want. But reality doesn't, it doesn't CHANGE, like that, GERALD, it doesn't CHANGE like that just because-because-because YOU want it to. It doesn't. It doesn't.


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[soundcloud url="https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/185871157″ params="color=ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false" width="100%" height="166″ iframe="true" /]
Our first foray into our podcast series for 2015 is a hearty heap of dancefloor treachery, courtesy of Columbus-based producer Interferon. A relative newcomer, the producer has found his footing by incorporating elements of Berlin, Birmingham and Stateside influences within his own brand of pensive techno turbulence. Fresh off his stellar "Arc EP" off Druid Cloak's Apothecary Compositions (which featured heavyweight remixes from Paul Birken and URB-favorite Manni Dee), we're excited to see what paths he'll take in 2015. In the meantime, we hope you enjoy our first of many stellar mixes to our podcast series. Tracklist down below:
1. Effy – Move (Troy Gunner Remix)[infinite machine]
2. Clouds – Blood Skating [turbo]
3. Lag – Trema [mord]
4. Ansome – Penny & Pound [mord]
5. Oliver Rosemann – Ridge [green fetish]
6. JoeFarr – Rampart [power vacuum]
7. Interferon – Sterile Caste [unreleased]
8. Deapmash – Blackout [unreleased]
9. Spurz – Black Locks [tessier-ashpool]
10. Gesloten Cirkel – Submit-X [murder capital]
11. Randomer – Stupid Things I Do (New School Mix) [clone]
12. Truss – Ganymede (Perc Remix) [perc trax]
13. Keepsakes – Let Me See Your Teeth [green fetish]
14. Rupcy – Assemblage [illian tape]
15. UVB – Mixtion [mord]
16. Kiazma – Circular Return [unreleased]
17. Kangding Ray – Amber Decay [raster-noton]


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Tag Archives: Taking Control of Time and Life
Time Management: Now Children Too
Children Do Better Time Management It is not so easy to mould the adults into time management and daily to-do list mode. But soon they get around doing it because of the benefits they see from being a bit organized. … Continue reading
Posted in Boundaryless Management, Change Management, Creativity, Family Counseling, General Counseling, General Management, General Management, Communication and Negotiation, Personal Effectiveness, Soft Skills, Global Management, Home Management, Human Resource Management, Innovation Management, Leadership, Life Management, Life Skills, Parental Counseling, Personal Effectiveness, Personality Development, Principles of Management, Professional Counseling, Project Management, Psychology and Psychotherapy, Soft Skills, Time Management Tagged Controlling Time, Daily To Do Lists, How to Make Daily To Do Lists, Life Management, Managing Time, Managing Time and Effectivenes, Taking Control of Time and Life, Time, Time Is Money, Time Management Leave a comment


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"Pioneer Expeditions will take you on a once or twice a lifetime adventure that's more a pioneer expedition than a holiday – this is your chance to be part of a very small group achieving a pioneering first. You're there to explore and experience the flora, fauna and landscape while doing something few people have done before you."
Pioneer Expeditions is an adventure travel specialist with years of experience undertaking such trips. They organise small group tours, family adventure holidays and tailor made itineraries which allow you to explore countries in a unique way.
Be the first to canoe a river from source to sea, climb a really remote mountain, trek an uncharted glacier, swim in a volcanic lake or traverse a tropical island, Pioneering Expeditions are always looking for new expedition ideas to pioneer. And after roughing it in the wilds with experienced local guides most trips will land you in the lap of luxury for a few days of recuperative celebration post adventure.
Pioneer Expeditions are organised so as to promote the greatest good and cause the least harm to the environment and communities trips come into contact with, and to give travellers the most authentic 'local' knowledge and experience. That means sleeping and eating with the locals.


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Never has starting pitching been so deep; the major league strikeout rate is through the roof and the era of cartoonish offense has subsided. There's little reason you can't put together a staff featuring three high-end pitchers, but the key to getting over the top is rounding out your rotation with young, ascending pitchers, or through a capable veteran or two in line for a rebound. There's no shortage of these options in 2014, so let's hash out some early starting pitcher rankings for 2014 fantasy baseball and get to it.
Starting Pitchers (SP) – 2014 Fantasy Baseball Rankings
Tier 1 (1-5)
Kershaw, Darvish, Wainwright, Lee, F. Hernandez
Clayton Kershaw, the $215-million man, leads the way. His last three seasons have been magnificent, and there's no reason to expect any regression. Yu Darvish strikes out batters at a rate not seen since the days of Pedro and the Big Unit; he wins weeks all on his own. Adam Wainwright returned to his full pre-injury form and is locked in as one of baseball's best starters. Cliff Lee is a pitching machine; you can count on 200 strikeouts and a premium ERA year-in and year-out. Felix Hernandez can be penciled in for 200 IP, 200 K, and an ERA around 3.0 with perennial Cy Young Award upside. Any questions?
Tier 2 (6-10)
Scherzer, Strasburg, Price, Fernandez, Verlander
Max Scherzer will face a tall task repeating last season's winning percentage, but he's a strong bet to maintain his overall performance. Stephen Strasburg has all the ability to be fantasy's top starter, he just needs everything to come together in DC; the future is now. David Price was a disappointment to owners that invested a top pick in him last season, but he's in his free agent season and is backed by yet another talented Rays squad. Forget about the team Jose Fernandez pitches for-- he's already one of the game's most dominant hurlers, and his arrow is firmly pointed up. Justin Verlander was taken near the top of last year's drafts, but produced an uneven (for him) campaign. Still, 200+ strikeouts and a sub-3.50 ERA is more than enough to make him a low-end fantasy SP1.
Tier 3 (11-15)
Sale, Greinke, Iwakuma, Minor, Moore
Chris Sale is an elite option easily on the verge of top-ten status. Despite missing time early in the season, Zach Greinke was fantastic in his first season out west; draft him with confidence. Speculation that Hisashi Iwakuma was wearing down a bit last summer was put to rest after a dominant September-- this guy has all the peripherals to keep it up. Mike Minor continues to improve and could also be a top-ten starter this year. Besides an ugly June, Matt Moore showed what he's capable of last season; if he can shave his walk rate then the sky is the limit.
Tier 4 (16-20)
Bumgarner, Zimmermann, Latos, Hamels, Shields
Madison Bumgarner is a highly reliable starter who has put together three consecutive campaigns featuring similar output; he had some luck on his side last year but can be counted on as a top option. Jordan Zimmermann doesn't have the stuff of Strasburg, but he was Washington's ace last season and should be the second half of one of baseball's best one-two punches. Mat Latos is durable and continues to shine two years removed from Petco Park's pitcher-friendly confines. Much of last season was a disaster for Cole Hamels, but he finished strong and still missed bats; expect a strong bounce-back campaign. The price was high for Kansas City to acquire James Shields, but the Royals got what they paid for-- he's a legitimate top-of-the-rotation starter.
Tier 5 (21-25)
Sanchez, Gonzalez, Cain, Bailey, Liriano
Anibal Sanchez rediscovered his 2011 strikeout rate and proved he can dominate in the AL. Gio Gonzalez had an up-and-down season but maintained his peripherals and can be relied upon in 2014. Matt Cain disappointed in 2013, and there are legitimate questions about his heavy workload over the years; still, he was a strong option in four of the season's six months and showed his best form in September. Homer Bailey continues to improve and has the ability to surpass Latos as the top option in Cincy's rotation. Heading to the NL salvaged Francisco Liriano's career; a weak September should be ignored in light of his tremendous postseason pitching.
Tier 6 (26-30)
Lester, Weaver, Wilson, Medlen, Buchholz
Jon Lester, Jered Weaver and C.J. Wilson are three veteran starters who present solid, predictable fantasy options. Medlen disappointed owners who were spoiled by his phenomenal run to close out 2012, but he was still a very good pitcher last year. Clay Buchholz was a Cy Young contender prior to getting hurt; if-- and it's a big "if"-- he can stay healthy for a full season, he easily has the ability to pitch above this tier.
Tier 7 (31-40)
Fister, Cole, Cashner, Ryu, Tanaka, Cobb, Cueto, Corbin, Miller, Teheran
A move to the NL should benefit Doug Fister, and Gerrit Cole's arrow is pointed up after a sterling rookie campaign. Masahiro Tanaka will be a popular guy on draft day and has great stuff, but don't expect another Yu Darvish. Shelby Miller was terrific as a rookie and probably benefited workload-wise from being buried on the Cardinals' postseason depth chart; Julio Teheran put it all together last season and should continue to improve.
Tier 8 (41-50)
Samardzija, Gray, Sabathia, Masterson, Wacha, Kuroda, Lackey, Beachy, Garza, Nova
Sonny Gray was sensational after his call-up and could dominate in Oakland. This is an important season for C.C. Sabathia-- has he truly entered the decline phase? Brandon Beachy offers great value this late and is far enough removed from Tommy John surgery that he should be counted on. Ivan Nova was fantastic after a first-half demotion; it's not far-fetched to think he may surpass Sabathia in the Yankees' pecking order.
Tier 9 (51-60)
Dickey, Lincecum, Salazar, Gee, Tillman, Archer, Ross, Cingrani, Parker, Gallardo
R.A. Dickey and Tim Lincecum were disappointments, but they're still worth taking upside fliers on. Dillon Gee was horrendous in April and May but rebounded to post four consecutive solid months of pitching. Danny Salazar, Tyson Ross and Tony Cingrani are on the ascent; they represent the types of value selections that can put you over the top.


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Ramona has some learning issues going on. Without going into the whole backstory, she doesn't have an official diagnosis, but we have figured out some things that work differently in her brain and some coping mechanisms that make things easier for her.
A term that was bandied around a lot when I worked at a University was "advocate." As I was writing a VERY BRIEF letter to her new teacher, the thought occurred to me that Ramona really knows what makes things better for her in the classroom and that she is old enough now to learn how to self-advocate given the right support. So, after I wrote 7-8 sentences giving a very brief background, I sat down with Ramona, read her the letter and asked her to tell me some things to tell Mrs. Smith about what makes school better for her.
I was blown away by a couple of her observations, prompted her on one, and in the end she came up with 5 things that she either wanted Mrs. Smith to know or that would make the classroom easier for her. We rehearsed what she would say to Mrs. Smith and then she said something entirely different when we got there. I could see she was so nervous, and I was so proud of her that she spoke up.
After she got this over with, she helped me with Girl Scout recruitment; or perhaps I should say that she and two other Girl Scouts did recruitment, and I just watched. She worked that table like a BOSS and told me later that the adults were surprised that a Girl Scout could talk so well.
I think she'll be just fine.


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Magic 1513: Tarot Combat II March 27, 2013Posted by James in : all, random , 2comments
The history discussed here is made up by me and there is no evidence that it is based on reality.
Tarot Combat is a tarot card game similar to Magic: the Gathering invented in 1503. The problem is that the game requires players to memorize what all the cards do. The 22-unique trump cards can be difficult to remember in particular. Tarot Combat II was invented in 1513, and it is training-wheels for Tarot Combat. It's basically a tarot deck, but all the cards say what they do on them. This makes it much easier to play. (more…)
Magic 1503: Tarot Combat March 20, 2013Posted by James in : all, random , 2comments
The history discussed here is made up by me and there is no evidence that it is based on reality.
In 1493 a card game was invented called "Combat." That game uses regular playing cards, which can be played as soldiers that attack or block, or as farms (lands). Players start with 20 life, and unblocked attacking soldiers deal damage to the defending player.
"Tarot Combat" is invented ten years later, which is almost the same thing, except it uses a tarot deck. Tarot cards are now famous for being used to tell fortunes, but they were originally used for card games. A tarot deck is pretty much the same thing as a regular card deck, except 22 trump cards are thrown in — cards with colorful images, such as the Magician, Death, and the Devil. (more…)
Magic 1493: Combat Using Playing Cards March 17, 2013Posted by James in : all, random , 3comments
The history discussed here is made up by me and there is no evidence that it is based on reality.
The first major combat-oriented card game was "Battle." It used playing cards and it was invented in 1393.
The second major combat-oriented card game was "Combat." It also used playing cards, but it was invented in 1493. (more…)
Magic 1393: Battle Using Playing Cards March 12, 2013Posted by James in : all, random , 5comments
I am inventing the history about how Magic: The Gathering evolved from various card games starting back in 1393, around the time that Europe got playing cards, which was pretty much exactly what the standard international deck of playing cards is now. This is my first entry into that history. Keep in mind that there are no historical records to prove that I'm right about the history of Magic. I am making it up out of nowhere. (more…)
The History of Magical Cards March 5, 2013Posted by James in : all, random , 2comments
The idea of having monsters and spells on cards is not entirely new. Magic: the Gathering didn't give us the first cards featuring monster and spell cards. Games involving monsters and spells pretty much started with Dungeons and Dragons (1974), and cards were made for that game quite early on.
However, the first thing that comes to mind when many people hear of "Magic cards" are tarot cards. (more…)
Top 10 Gatecrash Cards in Standard February 12, 2013Posted by James in : all, strategy, constructed, standard , add a comment
The five shock lands are probably the best addition to Standard found in Gatecrash, but there are ten other cards that I think are worth mentioning. I don't know that these cards will all make much of a difference in standard, but I think they are quite good and are pushing boundaries about how powerful Magic cards can be. (more…)
Gatecrash First Impressions (Review) January 21, 2013Posted by James in : all, reviews, previews , 2comments
I am mainly happy with Return to Ravnica and it is one of the better sets from recent history. Innistrad was also quite good. I expect Gatecrash to continue this trend. It really is part of Return to Ravnica and it could be considered to be the other half of the set insofar as it's just the other five guilds we haven't seen yet. (Although I don't see any rares as good as Angel of Revelation.) What I want to focus on here is what I think of the new guilds and their main mechanics. (more…)
Recoculous's Top 5 Posts from 2012 January 7, 2013Posted by James in : all , add a comment
Here's what I believe to be the top 5 best articles from Recoculous.com in 2012: (more…)
Standard Red Deck Wins (With Return to Ravnica) December 13, 2012Posted by James in : all, strategy, constructed, standard , add a comment
I believe introduction of Return to Ravnica has made Red Deck Wins a much better deck. I stopped playing Red Deck Wins after Zendikar left and started to play again (at least once each week) right after Return to Ravnica came out. I don't win every match, but I don't think any deck can do that right now anyway. My current deck and sideboard are the following: (more…)
How to Make Your Own Magic: The Gathering Set Part 5: Legendary Creatures November 6, 2012Posted by James in : all, random, design , 2comments
What's the point of legendary creatures? They originally existed to unite two colors and potentially combine the powers of both colors. Now we want them for EDH (Commander) generals that you can build a deck around and to give us entirely new and interesting abilities. We also want legendary creatures to be more interesting, fun, and powerful than creatures are generally. They often have two or more colors, but not always. They often have a high mana cost, but not always. (more…)
Predicting the Future Part 16: Magic 2414 (4 of 4) October 23, 2012Posted by James in : all, fake cards , 2comments
Go here to see Magic 2414 (part 1).
This is my final installment on Magic 2414. I will discuss various rare cards that will be in Magic 2414. (more…)
Top 10 New Rares from Return to Ravnica for Standard October 6, 2012Posted by James in : all, strategy, constructed, standard , 1 comment so far
Return to Ravnica has tons of great cards for Standard. The Shock Lands are obvious, but this list is restricted to the new rares that I think could make a difference to standard. (more…)
Top 10 First Picks for Return To Ravnica Draft (Review, Strategy, & Tips) [Updated 10/5/2012] September 26, 2012Posted by James in : all, reviews, previews, strategy, limited, draft , 10comments
When Drafting Ravnica Restored you will want to look into choosing one of the five guilds — Rakdos (RB), Azorius (WU), Selesnya (WG), Izzet (UR), and Golgari (GB). What does that mean? It mostly just means you will be in that corresponding color combination. How will you decide on a color combination? Take whatever cards you think are best early on that can be played in one of the five guilds and keep taking them. (more…)
Return To Ravnica Is Not Ravnica (My First Impressions/Review) September 21, 2012Posted by James in : all, random, reviews, previews, design , 5comments
I think we would have liked Return to Ravnica to be as much like the original Ravnica as possible but with new cards. Return To Ravnica is a lot like the original Ravnica. There's hybrid cards, mana fixing, and several two-mana themes called "guilds." However, I do have a major complaint and I think this is a good reason to think Return To Ravnica is inferior to the original — the mana fixing is significantly worse. First, I liked to have great mana fixing. Second, this might not be a problem when we draft a two color deck, but it could be a problem by the time we draft all three sets of the Return To Ravnica series together. Why? Because that will require us to generally play at least three colors. (more…)
The Inspiration for the Wit's End Card Art September 16, 2012Posted by James in : all , add a comment
On October 5, 2010 Shanedi Matnarudin posted a great piece of art on deviant art featuring a wizard and a giant demon: (more…)
From Alpha to Legends: Top 10 Crazy Artifacts September 10, 2012Posted by James in : all, random , 5comments
I remember a time when I'd throw random artifact cards in my decks just because that was the kind of thing to do back then. Magic wasn't about winning as much as it was about playing fun cards and twiddling your thumbs. This post is in homage to the nostalgic wonderful days of being a silly Magic player for those of us who experienced such a thing. There is something good about seeing Magic that way, but a lot of these artifacts are too powerful, too weak, or too complicated.
Perhaps one day Wizards of the Coast will start making more crazy artifacts like these except make sure they are balanced properly. Perhaps one day competitive Magic will be a little less about playing overpowerered cards so that fun cards can make a difference to the game without being imbalanced. The fact that Trading Post has made it to into standard events might be a good sign. (more…)
Predicting the Future Part 15: Magic 2414 (3 of 4) August 28, 2012Posted by James in : all, fake cards , add a comment
Go here to see Magic 2414 (part 1).
In this installment I will discuss various uncommon cards that will be in Magic 2414. (more…)
Predicting the Future Part 14: Magic 2414 (2 of 4) August 14, 2012Posted by James in : all, fake cards , 2comments
Go here to see Magic 2414 (part 1).
I have discussed what we should expect various relatively weak cards from Magic 2414. In this piece I will discuss cards that produce mana and unveil what we should expect from cards that cost mana to cast. (more…)
Predicting the Future Part 13: Magic 2414 (1 of 4) August 7, 2012Posted by James in : all, fake cards , 4comments
I made some predictions about what Magic will look like 100 years in the future and posted cards from Magic 2114. At that point the power 9 will no longer be "over powered" because of the power creep — cards will become incrementally more powerful every decade. If my predictions are correct, then I can also estimate what cards will be like from just about any decade… including four hundred years in the future. At that point Magic will be completely silly, but that doesn't mean it will be pointless. It can still be an interesting game after all. I will list four common cards from Magic 2414. (more…)
Top 10 Best New Cards in Magic 2013 (M13 Review) July 12, 2012Posted by James in : all, reviews, strategy , 2comments
Magic 2013 is unlikely to have many cards show up in Standard and it lacks many great cards from Magic 2012 (e.g. the Titans, Mana Leak, and Ponder.) Even so, there are ten cards that I like quite a bit, and some of them could make a difference in Legacy and Modern. (more…)


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As a ceramics major, you'll master a range of clay forming processes—wheel-throwing, hand-building, slipcasting, and 3D printing—to develop both individual studio expression and industrial applications in ceramics.
You will explore tableware design, large-scale installation, and architectural tile work—as well as a full range of sculptural and functional concepts.
The BFA in Art + Design: Ceramics can lead to a career as a studio artist, ceramics technician, educator, exhibitions director, gallery coordinator, industrial designer, installation artist, kiln builder, moldmaker, sculptor, or potter.
The BFA is a professional degree with concentrated areas of specialization, so you will take more art courses than you would in a BA program. At UMass Dartmouth, you also have the advantages of a university education where you can diversify your studies and expand your career opportunities.
Developed a foundation in CVPA
- Clay Trout Pottery
- Gustin Ceramics
- New Bedford Art Museum
- Sherle Wagner International
Career placements
- Arch Contemporary Ceramics
- Baltimore Clayworks
- Des Moines Art Center
- Mad Dog Studio
- Main Line Art Center
- Mesa Art Center
- NAVIO Artisans Collective
- Pelham Art Center
- Santa Fe Clay
- Texas A&M University
- Tulane University
- Archie Bray Foundation
- Anderson Ranch Arts Center
- Red Lodge Clay Center
- Shigaraki Ceramic Culture Park
- Sitka Center for Art and Ecology
- The Clay Studio
Graduate schools
- Alfred University
- Cranbrook Academy of Art
- Penn State University
- University of Nebraska
- University of Ohio
- Virgina Commonwealth University
Our curriculum provides a balance between traditional and contemporary work, exposing you to a spectrum of styles and philosophies. You'll develop your creative thinking skills and your personal voice as you explore both sculptural and functional concepts.
You will acquire expertise in clay and glaze formulation, kiln construction, and the variety of firing technologies available to the contemporary ceramist: oxidation, reduction, wood, and soda. You will develop a critical eye to form, technology use, and concept.
You'll also be well-prepared to continue your studies at the graduate level.
For the BFA in Art + Design: Ceramics, you'll complete 81 credits in courses related to your major, and 120 credits overall.
Explore a core experience in clay with elective classes in kilnbuilding, clay and glaze formulation, and mold-making.
For the minor, you'll complete 21 credits.
- Internships: enhance your studies while gaining first-hand experience
- Facilities: located at the university's Star Store campus in New Bedford, our studios feature state-of-the-art equipment and ample work areas
- Community: interact with professionals and peers by joining the Ceramics and Anagama clubs
- Campus Gallery: exhibit your work on campus
- Pop-up spaces: sell your work at Star Store seasonal events
- University Studies: gain the benefit of a university education to broaden your options for success in the arts
- Honors College: take advanced courses, pursue research, and be part of a community of scholars
- Study Abroad: earn academic credits and gain a global perspective on your field
- Undergraduate Research: faculty work with students on cutting-edge research projects
- University Studies: gain the benefit of a broad university education to enhance your knowledge and skills
Earn an advanced degree
Master of Fine Arts in Artisanry: Continue your education with a master's in artisanry. You can choose to specialize in ceramics, fibers, jewelry/metals, or wood/furniture.
Master of Art Education: With an emphasis on how the arts are integrated into daily life, the MAE program leads to a single-level professional certification in Massachusetts as an art teacher in grades Pre K-8 or 5-12.
Post-Baccalaureate Artisanry Certificate: The program is designed for students interested in pursuing a post-baccalaureate "fifth year" of technical and studio-based study of textile design and fiber arts. Students build an extensive portfolio and often continue on to MFA degree programs.
Ceramics Faculty
James Lawton
Art & Design
Star Store, New Bedford 421
Rebecca Hutchinson
Art & Design
Star Store, New Bedford 422


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Heathrow Express unveils new fleet
Heathrow Express is set to unveil its fully refurbished trains, part of a £16 million investment into the brand that has seen a new corporate identity launched and developed since March 2012.
The project, which has taken three years from commission to roll out, was borne from extensive research and the desire to remain the most innovative, premium train operating company in the marketplace.
Launched in 1998, customer research showed that Heathrow Express is viewed as a premium brand that is highly valued offering an oasis of calm for customers to brace themselves for travel at either end. Recent feedback showed that modernization and standardization was required to maintain and 'premiumise' the brand and a broader plan was agreed to update the brand identity and service values in parallel with a modernised fleet.
All trains will undergo a complete refit, inside and out from the ground up in both Express and First Class carriages.
In excess of 1300 new components have been introduced from over 200 suppliers. With a desire to get it right first time, over 260 technical re-designs were made since the prototype was introduced, following further customer, staff and supplier feedback.
With a strong business bias in the customer base, design concepts and enhancements were made to align the brand further with airlines. First Class carriages have been refined and the increased comfort and exemplary service offered reflect the airline experience. Heathrow Express 1st class is the only train in the country to offer single seating throughout the carriage meaning that space, privacy and proximity to luggage are guaranteed. First Class carriages are spacious reflecting a business lounge environment.
In Express Class improvements include revised interior seating layouts offering a variety of bay and airline seating where previously all seats were forward facing in twos. Customers requested more room to move so moveable arm rests were added and tables removed to be replaced by cup holders and 'trinket' tables. Luggage racks have been improved removing the bottom step so cases can slide in and overhead racks now have clear glass improving natural light.
Lighting throughout the carriages have been changed to more efficient LED lighting including coloured mood lighting under the seats, all lighting intensives when the to signal the train arriving in the station. At-seat power sockets have been added and the new brand colour scheme has been creatively implemented through the cabin.
The attention to detail extends to the toilet areas, which are now entirely, touch free. Baby changing tables have added nappy pins and hooks and mirrors have been added.
Taking nine months from concept to reality, customer experience has been at the heart of the project from the outset and investment in the fleet has been underpinned by ongoing investment in staff training and modernising customer touch points at the airport, the station and online . Heathrow Express are also updating back of house areas as an on-going commitment to their employees.
Proud to be the fastest and most reliable access point to and from the airport, the new improvements mean Heathrow Express boasts comfort and service aligned to premium air travel, whilst retaining its winning speed and reliability formula.
The first refurbished carriages will start service on Monday 28th May, leading to completion of the project and an entirely upgraded stock by April 2013
Keith Greenfield quotes "Heathrow Express is already the fastest and most reliable way to travel to the airport. Our new fleet will ensure that our customers receive the most relaxing and convenient travel experience possible. I am very proud to unveil our new trains – the result of 3 years hard work.
Our new design and technology innovations twinned with excellent service initiatives mean that we offer customers the fastest, most sophisticated travel choice to and from London Heathrow.
"London's busy summer starts this week and we are excited to showcase our new fleet as we welcome international visitors to the city for the Diamond Jubilee."


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On the way to Kabul, Amir sees signs of the wars, such as broken-down Soviet tanks and destroyed villages. When Amir and Farid reach Kabul, Amir does not recognize it. What used to be buildings are now dusty piles of rubble, and beggars are everywhere. The trees are all gone. The Soviets cut them down because snipers would hide in them, and Afghans cut them down to use for firewood. A Taliban patrol of bearded men with guns in the back of a red pickup passes by, and Amir stares at them. Farid rebukes Amir, saying the Taliban will use any excuse for violence, and an old beggar speaks up in agreement with Farid. The beggar, it turns out, was a literature professor and once knew Sofia Akram, Amir's mother. Amir asks him several questions about her, but soon has to leave.
Amir and Farid find the orphanage where they think Sohrab is. The director, Zaman, is cautious and doesn't admit that he has seen Sohrab until Amir says he is Sohrab's half-uncle. The orphanage itself was once a storage warehouse for a carpet manufacturer. There are hundreds of children and not enough beds, mattresses, or blankets. That past winter, one child froze to death. Zaman says Sohrab is not there, but he knows where he may be. It might already be too late, however. Amir asks what he means, and Zaman tells him there is a Taliban official who comes every month or two. The official brings cash, and will sometimes take a child with him. Farid attacks Zaman for letting this occur, but stops when he notices children in view. Zaman says he can do nothing against the Taliban, and it is the only way to get money to feed the children. He tells Amir and Farid that the official took Sohrab a month ago. If they want to find him, he will be at Ghazi Stadium the next day.
Farid drives Amir to Baba's house. It is falling apart, but recognizable. Amir finds his bedroom window and remembers looking out of it to watch Ali and Hassan the morning they left. He goes up the hill to the pomegranate tree where he and Hassan used to play, but Farid tells him they should leave. That night they stay at a dilapidated hotel. The following day they go to the soccer game at Ghazi Stadium. The field is just dirt, and the crowd is careful not to cheer too loudly. At halftime, Taliban in red pickups drive into the stadium. They unload a blindfolded man from one truck and a blindfolded woman from the other and bury each up to the chest in a hole on the field. The woman is screaming uncontrollably.
A cleric on the field recites a prayer from the Koran and announces that they are there to carry out God's law. When adulterers throw stones at the house of God, he shouts, they must answer by throwing stones back. Another man steps out of a pickup, and Farid and Amir see it is the official they are looking for. He is wearing black sunglasses, as Zaman said. The official throws stones at the head of the man in the hole until his head is a bloody pulp and his chin hangs to his chest. Then he does the same to the woman. They pile the bodies into the back of a truck, and the second half of the soccer game begins. Farid tells one of the Taliban nearby that he has personal business with the official, and the official agrees to see them that afternoon.
As Amir and Farid look for Sohrab, the reader sees through Amir's eyes more of the devastation of Kabul. The city is now completely unfamiliar to Amir, and he looks at it almost as a tourist, as Farid called Amir in the previous section. His description sounds at times like science fiction. Littered with rubble, populated by beggars, the city has become a post-apocalyptic nightmare. In a scene that vividly represents Afghanistan's desperation, Farid points out to Amir one man trying to sell his prosthetic leg to another man, who haggles with him over the price. There are few real signs of life left, made clear by the fact that not even trees remain, rendering the landscape oddly desolate. When Amir finds the pomegranate tree where he and Hassan used to play, he discovers it no longer bears fruit. The barren tree serves as a powerful symbol that the Kabul Amir knew is dead, at least figuratively if not yet literally. The city appears even stranger and more sad by the many reminders that this is, in fact, the place where Amir grew up. Amir happens upon the old beggar who knew his mother, for instance, and later finds Baba's house, which has fallen into severe disrepair. As Amir describes his homecoming, it is like bumping into an old friend who you learn has become destitute.
Amir also has his first encounter with the Taliban, the group of Islamic radicals that now control Afghanistan. Farid calls them the "Beard Patrol" as they approach in their red pickup truck. His meaning is double: the term describes the Taliban men, who are all bearded, but it also describes what they are doing, which among other things is to literally make sure that all men have beards. In Islam's holy texts, men are instructed to let their beards grow to distinguish them from followers of other religions. According to the Taliban, a man who shaves his beard is committing a sin, and they make it their job to punish any person caught sinning. Shaving was one of many illegal acts under the Taliban, which is why Amir bought a fake beard before entering the country. The Taliban also prohibited women from working, which the director of the orphanage, Zaman, says is part of the reason there were so many children there. When Afghan men died during the wars, their wives were left to care for their children. But since the women could not work, they had no way to feed the kids. Rather than watch them starve, they would leave them with orphanages.


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30 January 2017
The Floral romantic dress on GENTE magazine
It's always time to be and feel romantic…no matter what season is. Our Princesses know well because they have a tender heart. Wear a dress that reminds us of a waterfall of flowers, a country walk, a vision of life in contact with nature.
This year then the floral dresses are a trend that you can't miss! You find it in the SHOP in 3 different colors and you can choose to wear it with one of our fabolus shrug.


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James Liapis
Lake Central High
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Budget! Budget! Budget!
My thoughts in the last 48 hours have been akin to the scene in 'Being John Malkovich', where the eponymous Mr Malkovich enters his own headspace and all he hears is everyone around him calling out "Malkovich! Malkovich! Malkovich!", only with the word "Budget!" instead.
I watched the whole thing live, and was pleasantly surprised to see #budget10 trend on Twitter, showing that in moaning and complaining online we still continue to punch above our weight. In the past I have recommended a tax on our cynicism and begrudgery as the most sure-fire method to raise the country out of its economic woes, and no doubt even as we speak our political masters are considering the introduction of a Methane Budget to follow on from the successful Carbon Budget launched by the Greens two years ago.
It is a telling sign that so far the only action threatened in response to the cutbacks comes from An Garda Siochana, who can no longer idly stand by as allowance after allowance is threatened. As the guardians of the peace they are prohibited by law from striking, but then again if they did who would actually be around to arrest them? No doubt when and if they do strike it will be in the form of a "Blue Flu", where the entire national police force calls in sick, which coincidentally allows them to claim their "Being Sick" allowance that makes up for the other bonuses they aren't able to claim by not actually being in work that day. Other countries have corrupt police forces that shake down citizens on the street, ours just take their cut at source.
But at least they are standing up and doing something, which is more than can be said for the rest of us. This budget was aimed squarely at the Public Sector, and the media has been very successful over the last few months in driving a wedge between the Public and Private sectors and thus as those outside the Public Sector are relatively untouched by this budget, they remain relatively unconcerned about it, with ample acreage of Me Feinn-ism on display.
The problem with this budget is not what is in it, rather it is what is not in it, with no provision for job creation, no increase in the corporate tax rate, and no introduction of a third tax bracket for those earning grossly above societal norms. Yet again the government has hit the most vulnerable in society (more than 50% of all public sector workers earn below the average industrial wage) while continuing to reward those responsible for our country's dire economic woes.
The nonsensical creation of a car scrappage scheme in the absence of a native car manufacturing industry and the proposed energy-efficiency measures for home-owners that is 'Weatherizing' by any other name are blatant copycatting of Obama programs that will have little impact on the Irish economy, and should have Minister Lenihan expelled from school for such appalling plagiarism. Seriously? The best stimulus packages he can come up with are cogged directly from the popular kid sitting in the next desk over? No wonder the FT rated Brian the worst Finance Minister in Europe, down from second worst last year.
But again the majority of accompanying hot air has been on the subject of what is wrong with the country, rather than offering solutions and suggestions of what could be right. Both Fine Gael and Labour did offer alternative budget plans in the last few weeks (Irish Election had a nice and short summary and comparison) and the unions offered their own suggestions, but I am not content to sit back and wait for others to make everything magically better.
I have received a good number of responses to my last post and already have had quite a few interesting conversations with similarly grumpy but slightly more motivated people. I will take some time next week to summarise some of the main ideas, and plans are already starting to formulate in my mind. Indeed a proto-Bawh-hah-hah! would not be out of place at this stage in the process.
In the meantime please keep your suggestions coming in and I will meet with as many of you as possible in the next few days, then hopefully in the New Year we can all stand tall, rub our hands together in glee and bellow out a hearty Bwah-hah-hah to the world in a collective voice, rather than as a group of isolated individuals.Tweet


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I thought I would give a quick rundown of what's happening in my garden as of yesterday, September 20 (I haven't been out there today, yet.) Last week I whined about nothing sprouting, and nothing really happening. I think it's sort of the case for September- at least this one. As much as I want it to be autumn, the truth is, we're still completing the summer storm cycle here in Florida.
I haven't had to water at all these past few weeks, maybe once or twice. That's a *huge* thing, because normally I have to water my containers daily. Instead, my plants are all soggy, and seem to be begging for just a few days to dry out. I am trying to remind myself that once that does happen, it will all be worth it- at least it has in the past.
Instead of getting *more* seeds, last week I went through my two seed boxes and planted a few of the things I had- nasturtium (three more small pots), morning glories and sweet peas (tried these numerous times in the past- if they don't go, I'm done with these particular plants and ready to move on), some seeds that came in Gracie's kid's gardening kit she begged for at Home Depot but never did anything with (impatiens and cosmos).
My tomato seeds have sprouted, which is great. Three of the four pots of sunflower seeds I planted sprouted, as well. The catnip is coming up nicely. I can't tell you how much all three of my cats LOVE having a big container of catnip to bury their face in. Even my oldest, who is 15, does strange things around the catnip when she thinks we aren't watching her.
And yesterday, one of the nasturtium seeds sprouted. For some reason, just seeing that was like the light at the end of the tunnel that I have been waiting for all summer. Just a few more weeks, it said.
I'm still waiting for my ranunculus bulbs from Burpee.
And I won't lie- I'm still tempted by new seeds. Maybe in a few weeks. For now I am just holding out, holding on, until my regular routines in the garden become part of my daily life again. I really miss it.
I'll get Tom to take some better photos soon, but in the meantime, here are a few photos I snapped yesterday before my swim. It'll be interesting to look at them in a few weeks/months and see the changes.


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Short Sales: This Time it Ain't Radio Gaga
"Everything I had to know, I heard it on the radio." –Queen, Radio GaGa
I think that Queen was probably right when they made that point in the song. But, you can judge for yourself. Short Sale Expeditor® and Broker, Melissa Zavala, recently was invited to participate in a radio interview where she answered all sorts of questions about loan modifications and short sales.
With so many different short sale and loan modification programs available to distressed borrowers, it is important to have the latest information about what's going on in the real estate world from someone who is in the trenches speaking with banks day in and day out.
To listen to the interview, click play below. And, of course, if you have any questions about short sale processing and short sales in general, don't forget to contact us at Short Sale Expeditor®.
*For those grammarians out there, know that we consciously used ain't in the title of this post.


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We love playgrounds, but as any child knows, the concept of confining play to a designated area is somewhat absurd. As we work toward our vision of a playground within walking distance of every child, we also love to see play opportunities beyond the playground -- for kids and adults alike.
Our popular guest blogger Alex Gilliam, from Public Workshop, wrote last year about implementing "a citywide play circuit," drawing from inspiration he found abroad. He's not the only one who is fond of this notion. Tim McGill, author of Rethinking Childhood, says, "The word is playability. A playable space is one that encourages play alongside other functions."
So why not play with trash cans, at bus stops, and down flights of stairs? Kids do it naturally, but adults may need some extra cues:
Photo credits: Swing at bus stop: popupcity.net; hopscotch and trash can basketball: rebelart.net; slide at metro station: newslite.tv; free throw line and street maze: monkeyzen.com.
See more fun street art on our Tumblr blog.


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If you've been looking for great deals for fall, like inexpensive 3 wick candles and glass jar candles, do not skip this post!! There are some incredible deals at Roses/Maxway and Dollar Tree! I'm about to show you my first haul y'all!
Here's pics of what I found while at Roses. I found the BEST smelling Red Velvet 3 wick candle and it was only $2.99, y'all!!!! I was floored. I would've gotten it, but I have a ton of candles as it is. Oh, on a side note, if you want to elongate the life of your candles, check out this post. You'll be amazed!
If you find anything, let me know! I need stuff too!! lol
See y'all later,


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Marios KoutsourelisTheatre Arts and Dance
BA, City University of New York; MA, San Francisco State University
Marios Koutsourelis has directed documentaries, short films and corporate videos and events. His extensive work in corporate events and video development has earned him a Golden Hermes Award (2003) and Bronze Hermes Award (2004). He has been working as a Lighting Designer.


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Dr. Charles Wax
Dr Charles Wax past president of the American Association of State Climatologists. Currently professor of Geography and Climatology at Mississippi State University and has written peer reviewed papers.
"First off, there isn't a consensus among scientists. Don't let anybody tell you there is."
Watch this video – 'climate change is a good thing from the standpoint of us'
Global climate change may have little or nothing to do with mankind's burning of fossil fuels and a lot to do with sunspot cycles and other natural phenomena that aren't affected by greenhouse gases
[Wax] says variations in climate — often in only a few years — represent "much more of a threat than global warming of the magnitude we're seeing." For example, he notes, in 2007 Mississippi rainfall totaled only 34 inches for the entire year, and farmers faced severe drought conditions. "Yet, two years later in 2009, rainfall totaled 86.11 inches — two very different scenarios within just a very brief time span. A two-degree variation in average annual temperature by 2029, which some computer models are forecasting, isn't that critical to our farmers, but a 50-inch variation in rainfall is. [deltafarmpress.com]
Despite Charles Wax's qualifications he should read up on why the sun isn't anything to do with current warming, why 2c is a serious increase in global temperature and why climate change is likely to increase extremes.


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Midnight.r.walker needed a new banner ad design and created a contest on 99designs.
A winner was selected from 135 designs submitted by 31 freelance designers.
Revenge of the Wallflower
I am looking for a Header for a blog. Header fits into a header size 1000px Wide and 150px to 250px Height, depending on the design.
I am doing a simple blog about Introverts--their likes and dislikes, dating, advice, meet up groups, etc.
I'd like an element of comedy/sarcasm in the design of the header, as the site is a bit on the comedic side. The remainder of the blog site will be a simple white, so the banner needs to be able to be simply uploaded into a white space.
Full wording: (main) "REVENGE OF THE WALLFLOWER--(subtitle) Go Away. I'm Alright." (View my current site)
I've uploaded a couple of very basic ideas I threw together...undeniably horrid, so don't look for TOO long!
You are free to be creative. I would like a bit of art, not just words. Perhaps something to do with wallpaper, splat designs, REVENGE-ish font (like MASTERPLAN) or torn wallpaper. Sort of a 'Rage Against the....' idea. White background. Bold. Clean. Uncluttered. Simple.
Non-gender-specific (no overtly feminine flowers or pink colors, or only blue-grey blocks). I certainly don't mind a flower (as the blog is about wallflowers) but maybe a more stylized flower.
Target audience: 20-40, male, female, nerdy, quiet, sarcastic, shy, web surfers.
My incomplete blog is here:
I also like this concept of the torn paper (but maybe make it wallpaper?)
I also kinda like the big, blocky letters of different sizes (like in the Ford Truck commercials).
Fav color combos (Black, Grey, Red) (Gold 255,193,0 Black, Grey)
An option: REVENGE still bold, hard. But 'wallflower' more tame and in line with what we think of when we think of introverts: quiet, demure, withdrawn.
Perhaps a font I like (Birth of a Hero, small letters... because of it's crumbly nature) large and soft-colored (grey, not girly) in the background, being written over, like in submissions 4 and 23. It's just an idea. :-) Thanks everyone!


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M-J's Scandinavian Style Cinnamon Toast
|Cinnamon Toast, Scandinavian Style
I soak some day-old home-made bread in milk, cream, a dash of salt, cinnamon and sweetener for a half-minute, sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar, then bake it on a buttered baking sheet in a low oven (250*) until lightly browned and dry. Let it sit overnight in the oven for a real crunch. Optionally, you can remove the toast after baking it for an hour, and re-coat it in the milk, cream and cinnamon batter, sprinkle it again with cinnamon and sugar, then bake again for as long as you believe necessary. This toast is usually dunked into coffee, as it is usually very sturdy and crunchy.
©M-J de Mesterton 2010
Cooked in Butter and then Broiled for a Minute
½ cup of regular or unbleached flour
1/3 cup of buttermilk
¼ cup of hot water
1/2 teaspoon-full of Himalayan salt
1 teaspoon of crushed flax-seeds (optional; these seeds make the oat-cakes more health-promoting, and they add nearly no calories)
1/2 teaspoon of aluminum-free baking powder, such as that made by Rumson or Bob's Red Mill
¼ cup of melted butter
1 teaspoon of coconut oil
Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl. Pat this mixture into a baking sheet until flat and about 1/8 inch thick. Heat your oven to 350 F.
I sometimes use a wafer iron or a quesadilla machine, and cook the oat-cake mixture until it stops steaming and releases from the iron easily. Bake until oatcake is brown and as crisp as possible.
Variations: add two teaspoons of sugar and/or ground walnuts.
M-J's Elegant Pain Brioché Egg Dish
M-J's Elegant English Muffins, Cooked on the Griddle
6 cups of unbleached white flour
2 tablespoons of yeast
One cup of warm water
One cup of buttermilk
One tablespoon of honey or agave nectar
One tablespoon of salt (Himalayan, sea, or regular salt)
Two tablespoons of butter
Shortening or lard to grease the griddle
Cornmeal or masa for dusting
In a large mixing bowl, mix the yeast with one cup of warm water, one tablespoon of honey and two cups of flour. Let it sit for fifteen minutes to half an hour. Add the buttermilk, salt, butter and honey.
Gradually incorporate the remaining four cups of flour into the existing mixture. Knead on a hard surface for a few minutes until all ingredients are well-blended. Form this dough into a ball.
Set your dough-ball in a buttered bowl, covered, in a warm place until it has doubled in size.
Sprinkle your work-surface with flour. Flatten out risen dough and fold it over itself, making two layers, which you will now flatten together into a 1/2 inch thick rectangle. Using an empty tin, cut out approximately twenty English muffins.Dust them on both sides with masa or cornmeal.When they have risen to double their height, place them on a hot griddle-pan that has been greased with shortening or lard. Cook the muffins for ten to twenty minutes on each side, or until lightly browned. These muffins are best left to cool completely before splitting open and toasting them.
Copyright M-J de Mesterton
The Elegant Cook ©2010
An old friend of mine used to make this dish for me in the 1970s. I published my recipe for the unusual breakfast offering on Elegant Survival in 2006; it was for a long time the only recipe for Eggs Vienna on the internet. I shall reconstruct it here at The Elegant Cook:
Eggs Vienna for Two
Prepare four slices of streaky American-style bacon until they are crisp. Poach two eggs in two cups of boiling milk, until they are soft. Toast two slices of white bread or English muffins, then butter them. When all three components are ready, place one piece of toast in each of two soup-bowls. Place two slices of bacon on top of each piece of toast, then top that with a poached egg. Pour the remaining hot milk, in which the eggs have been poached, into each bowl.Copyright M-J de Mesterton
Elegant Eggs
Eggs, Nature's Perfect Food
Because the percentage of the recommended daily amount for many nutrients provided by an egg is greater than the proportion of total calorie intake that the egg represents, the egg more than pulls its weight nutritionally. Most of the vitamins and minerals in eggs are found in the yolk; protein, however, is found in both the yolk and the white. Recent research indicates that egg eaters are more likely than non-egg eaters to have diets that provide adequate amounts of essential nutrients. This seems to be partly due to the nutritional contribution of the eggs themselves and partly due to the fact that the inclusion of eggs in the diet is an indicator of a desirable eating pattern that includes breakfast.
Eggs don't cause heart disease, as the medical industry previously believed. And here is more good news: a research team at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge determined that women on a weight-loss regimen who ate an egg with toast and jelly each morning lost twice as many pounds as those who had a bagel breakfast with the same number of calories without the accompanying egg.
Eggs can be prepared easily, in a variety of ways. They keep well in the refrigerator for about three weeks, and therefore an individual can easily use up the dozen eggs in a carton before they spoil. Because most egg recipes involve short cooking times, eggs are convenient for the person with little time to prepare meals.
Eggs have several important physical and chemical properties that help make recipes work. They thicken custards, puddings and sauces; emulsify and stabilize mixtures such as mayonnaise and salad dressings; coat or glaze breads and cookies; bind ingredients together in dishes such as meat loaf and lasagne; eggs are used to clarify coffee and soups; retard crystallization in boiled candies and frostings, and as leavening in baked goods such as cakes, cookies, soufflés, buns and sponge cakes.
Eggs are economical, especially when compared to other high-protein foods. For people who are trying to balance their budgets as well as their diets, serving eggs occasionally instead of meat, poultry, or fish is very economical.
Another stellar feature of eggs is that they are a functional food—that is, a food that provides health benefits that go beyond basic nutrition. Eggs contain the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin, two components which are believed to have enormous health benefits. Speaking of functions, eggs have traditionally been used for facial cleansing and skin-tightening masques. A classic fine art painting medium, egg-tempera, which is used very little today, is created by mixing pigment with raw eggs.
The Elegant, Nutritious Radish
Elegant Huevos Rancheros
Huevos Rancheros--fried eggs and grated cheese on tortillas with red or green chile gravy on top--are a health-promoting breakfast or brunch dish for winter and fall. Placing refritos, or refried beans, under the eggs is optional. Use either flour or corn tortillas, with Monterey Jack or Cheddar cheese. I like to sauté the tortillas in butter, grate cheese onto them, then fry the eggs, assemble the lot and pour on the chile gravy, finishing the top with more grated cheese.


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Maternal & Neonatal Health
More than 4 million infants die each year worldwide. Approximately two-thirds of infant deaths occur during the first month of life, making the first days of a child's life critical to its survival and future health.
The immediate causes of newborn death include infection, complications related to premature birth, birth asphyxia, and congenital anomalies. Poor maternal nutrition, maternal reproductive tract infections, low birthweight, and access to health services also contribute to newborn deaths. Many of these conditions can easily be prevented or treated.
Over 500,000 women die from pregnancy and childbirth-related complications each year. An additional 15 to 20 million women who actually survive the delivery still suffer debilitating consequences of pregnancy, such as obstetric fistula, that have huge social and economic implications.
Ninety nine percent of maternal and newborn mortality occur in developing countries, where over 50 percent of women still deliver without attendance of skilled health personnel. Babies whose mothers have died during childbirth have a much greater chance of dying in their first year than those whose mothers remain alive.
The IZUMI Foundation supports low-cost, effective programs that sustain the lives of both the mother and the child, recognizing that newborn and maternal health and survival are closely linked.


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Chrysanthemums are a genus with several species and hundreds of varieties. Commonly called "mums" in the English-speaking world, they also go by their variety name, such as "coronation" for Chrysanthemum coronarium L. var. coronarium (not to be confused with the 'carnation,' or Dianthus caryophyllus ).
Chrysanthemums are without doubt non-poisonous and indeed are quite edible, having a slightly bitter, sometimes pungent flavor. But they are often listed among toxic plants because adverse effects are known to be associated with them among some people and if consumed in large quantities. The three adverse effects I am aware of are:
Having said that, let me add that most people will suffer none of these reactions from eating the flowers and fewer still will suffer from enjoying a glass of chrysanthemum wine. Most toxicity lists err on the side of caution, listing such staples as apples, apricots, and even mustard.
This wine is made from the petals of the flower only. The greenery is bitter and, as noted above, its sap can cause dematitis. The wine is best when finished semi-sweet (i.e. with a specific gravity around 1.004 to 1.007) and served chilled. Chrysanthemums can be blended with other flowers, such as calendulas, jasmines, lilacs, nasturiums, roses, or violets.
Remove the petals from the flowers. Bring 1 qt water to boil and stir in sugar until dissolved. Put flower petals, grape juice concentrate, acid, tannin, and yeast nutrient in primary. Pour boiling water over flower petals and cover primary. Let set 24 hours and strain, discarding flowers and returning liquid to primary, Add remaining water and activated yeast. When vigorous fermentation subsides, transfer to secondary and fit airlock. When all fermentation ceases, rack to sanitized secondary containing finely crushed Campden tablet, top up and attach airlock. When wine clears, rack again, top up and refit airlock. After 60 days, rack, stabilize, top up, and refit airlock. After additional 60 days, rack only if sediment warrants, sweeten to taste, and bottle wine. Allow 3 months before tasting. Will improve for about 1 year, then should be consumed. [Author's own recipe]
My thanks to Tony Tidwell of McNairy County Tennessee for this request.


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How to use alternatives at the end of the cycle: five strategies detailed
Published 11 December 2017
Diversifying alpha sourcesAlternativesReal estate
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As the bull market matures and as equity & bond valuations grind higher, it may be prudent for investors to start positioning their portfolios for the end of the cycle. Alternative investments have developed over the past few years and they can offer diversifying characteristics for investors that are be particularly useful around cycle turning points.
The 'alternatives' asset class provides a range of opportunities with low correlation to traditional securities: real estate, catastrophe bonds, low-risk infrastructure, and other alternatives strategies can offer effective benefits for portfolios at the end of the cycle.
Alternatives have changed
Just a few years ago, poor transparency, lock ups and regulatory restrictions meant that alternatives were inaccessible to all but the most pioneering investors. But times have changed. Alternatives have become a staple of institutional investment portfolios.
According to Willis Towers Watson's Global Alternatives Surveys, the top 100 alternative asset managers combined managed over USD 4 trillion at the end of 2016, a 10% increase on 2015, and USD 640 billion more than 2014. Real estate, private equity and hedge funds dominate alternatives, comprising nearly 70% of assets under management.
In the longer term, investors are intending to boost allocations to alternatives still further, with all but one of the major alternative asset groups expected to see increased allocations (chart 1). In the shorter term, institutional investors are also seeing fund terms for investing in alternative strategies shift in their favour (chart 2).
One reason why alternatives are particularly sought after right now is because of the high valuations in the bond and equity markets, but for many investors it actually makes sense to allocate to alternatives on a semi-structural basis. Waiting until the end of the cycle until establishing alternatives exposure risks missing out on the advantages they offer during the rest of the cycle. For less liquid alternative asset groups, such as real estate and private equity, it may prove costly in terms of performance to enter these markets late in the cycle.
As alternatives are a heterogeneous group of strategies and asset types, it's worth looking at the role some of these specific strategies can play in portfolios. But bear in mind that specific investments, as well as the strategy and asset type, are paramount in alternatives investing.
Real estate: quality matters
There are many options available in real estate but some are more suitable than others at this stage in the cycle.
High-quality real estate which includes commercial assets such as offices, logistics and retail property can be particularly useful when we are late in the rental growth cycle if they benefit from a long lease and sound tenants (such as the government). They provide a good income, an illiquidity premium which raises returns, and a relatively low correlation to the wider economy.
However, some parts of the real estate market have become more expensive in recent years. Yields in prime real estate have compressed significantly making it more vulnerable to a deterioration in sentiment or a cyclical downturn (chart 3). The weight of capital has driven returns in prime property to all-time lows – 100-150 basis points lower than in 2008 – while pricing is at an all-time high. A 25 to 50 basis point movement in yields will result in a 10-20% fall in capital values.
Other changes to the market have increased the likelihood of volatility too. Globalisation means that very large pools of capital are moving in and out of of certain markets, particularly the more liquid gateway cities making them more volatile. For example, c.80% of purchases in the City of London were made by overseas investors. This change in the blend of ownership, together with increased capital flows, introduces more volatility.
Similarly, currency has a greater bearing on real estate now than ever before. Investors in London property saw a 20% fall in the value of their asset following the depreciation of the pound post Brexit. Again, this is likely to increase capital flows in and out of the market.
In the event of a market drop, it might be uncomfortably rocky for a while, but quality real estate assets are still very much a dependable holding at end of cycle and into a downturn if investors ensure that they have strong income cash flows, and can hold onto their assets.
Catastrophe bonds
Catastrophe bonds offer excellent diversification value because natural disasters are typically uncorrelated to market movements. Recently, there have been a number of weather-related disasters in North America, which have resulted in large scale property damage. This has caused losses to insurers and owners of cat bonds.
If these losses result in a 'reset' of premiums to the higher levels we've seen in the past, it may be an opportune time to take exposure. However, there remains a large pool of capital ready to move into the cat bond market if pricing becomes particularly attractive. On that basis, we expect any re-pricing to be more modest than we would have seen in the past.
Low-risk infrastructure
Infrastructure has typically been perceived as a lower risk, income-oriented asset class with some diversification value versus traditional assets. Infrastructure's predictable, long-term cash flows, which are linked to inflation in various ways, are generally viewed as a relatively safe bet versus equities.
Within infrastructure, sub-sectors like social infrastructure (public private partnerships) tend to be highly insulated from the vagaries of the wider economy. However, it has become increasingly challenging for investors to source new investments in this space.
There are slightly more economically sensitive forms of infrastructure investment still offering good return prospects, as long as you're willing to exclude large trophy assets. By considering carefully where to sit in the capital structure (senior, mezzanine or equity), it's possible to tailor exposure to the cyclicality embedded in more economically sensitive assets while still benefiting from many of the most desirable aspects of the asset class.
Additional tier 1 (AT1) bonds
If we start seeing interest rates rise during this late cycle stage, AT1 bonds, issued by banks, could be useful. AT1s respond differently to rising rates than equities. While bank shares benefit from controlled rate rises, the effect on AT1s is more ambiguous. Given the perpetuity of AT1s, they can lose value if rates rise and their call option is not exercised by the issuer. However, a lot of AT1s were issued when credit spreads were wider than they are now, consequently many still look likely to get called and generate positive returns even if rates rise.
If rates increase by less than expected or remain compressed, AT1s can benefit, and are likely to be called (at their first call date) by the issuer who will then have to issue new AT1s at the prevailing market rate to maintain capital requirements. This new batch of AT1s could be attractively priced if credit spreads widen from where they are now.
Private equity
Private equity will tend to be highly correlated to public equities, with the downside potential often likened to holding midcap public equities with additional leverage to boot. Just because private equity has an 'alternatives' label, investors shouldn't assume defensiveness. But private equity can play a part in a portfolio at the end of the cycle by making capital work harder. For example, a well considered and structured investment in a barbell of cash and private equity can provide better returns for a similar level of risk compared to richly-valued public equities.
Additionally, if the cycle is rolling over, investing with a skilled private equity manager might present a chance to deploy capital into bargain opportunities before the next recovery. Such an approach needs to be well researched given that it depends not only on timing, but also on an expert manager with strong execution capabilities.
Other alternatives strategies
There are numerous alternative strategies but some will offer more defensive characteristics than others:
Equity pairs trading can provide a defensive profile. The strategy waits for a weakness in the correlation of two normally highly correlated stocks, such as Shell and BP, before shorting the over performer and going long in the underperformer. When the securities return to their statistical norm, the position is closed. The strategy effectively means that the individual positions hedge or de-risk one another. In theory, this market neutral strategy allows traders to profit in virtually any market conditions without being exposed to the market direction.
Long bias and long/short strategies could work well in the near term, particularly where the manager has a distinctly contrarian mind set. These types of managers tend to avoid holding popular momentum-driven stocks, such as 'FAANG' stocks. Although momentum securities are often highly profitable towards the end of the cycle leading the market upwards, they are also likely to be the securities that push the market down the most when it turns.
Trend following is a strategy that might be counter intuitive for investors concerned about herd behaviour but it can prove particularly successful in a downturn. Trend followers use rules-based strategies and can quickly latch on to prevailing developments in equities, currencies and other markets.
During a crash, investors may underreact, manifesting itself in the form of buying the dip, being in denial of the change in the cycle, or they may simply take too long to react. Nimble, systematic trend-following programmes exploit market movements quickly and hold no emotional attachments.
However, be warned that trend following is not without risk. It is far from a guaranteed hedge and can even work against the investor in some downturns. But it can play a role in the portfolio as long as expectations and portfolio exposures are carefully managed.
Discretionary macro is a strategy that allows investment managers to go long or short, across all the major markets including equities, bonds, interest rates and currencies. The strategy tends to be overseen by a human and decisions are made based on macro-economic analysis.
The manager will typically have a very good technical understanding of financial markets. They rely on being able to predict the evolution of economic and investment cycles in advance of the average investor, or they structure trades in a way that thrives off the volatility created as problems develop, with little regard to the specific catalyst.
The current landscape of high valuations is challenging investors to reassess their investments and adopt a range of alternative approaches. Investors need to turn over more stones and diversify portfolio positioning to generate adequate future returns.
Although high valuations in bonds and equities have spurred a shift towards alternatives as this cycle matures, the increase in alternatives investments isn't just a cyclical fad. It's part of a longer term trend playing out in the market.
Alternative asset strategies are increasingly accessible, and investors are recognising the benefits of a wider tool kit. Alternatives can help their portfolios deliver better risk-adjusted returns in a broad range of market environments and can provide valuable portfolio flexibility as those market conditions continue to change.
So What?
The increase in alternatives investments isn't just a cyclical fad - it's part of a longer term trend playing out in the market.
Alternative asset strategies are increasingly accessible, and investors are recognising the benefits of a wider tool kit. Alternatives can help their portfolios deliver better risk-adjusted returns in a broad range of market environments and can provide valuable portfolio flexibility as those market conditions continue to change.
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13 December 2017
China's tricky tightrope: High debt levels don't spell gloom but China's magic wand is gone
11 December 2017
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Opinions expressed are as of Nov 2017 and may change as subsequent decisions vary.
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Audubon Arizona's Downtown Owls
Join Audubon Arizona, Wild at Heart and the City of Phoenix to help Burrowing Owls in the Phoenix valley!
Burrowing Owls (Athene cunicularia) are small, day-active birds that live in the abandoned burrows of ground squirrels and other mammals. They are highly social and eat primarily insects and mice. Once common in the Phoenix valley, these birds are disappearing rapidly due to development. Fortunately, the birds can be trapped and successfully relocated to safe sites— but these sites are becoming increasingly rare.
"Downtown Owls" began in 2013 as an urban wildlife habitat creation project in the City of Phoenix's Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area and has now grown to include several other sites valley-wide. Thousands of volunteers of all ages and from all walks of life have participated thus far and hundreds of owls have be re-homed. Learn more about the project.
Feel free to visit the owls! The birds are most active in the morning and evening. Please respect the birds and stay at least 10 feet (3 meters) away. There are five burrow sites at Rio Salado, all adjacent to walking paths.
- Interactive map of the Rio Salado Burrowing Owl Burrow locations
- Printable map of Rio Salado Burrowing Owl Burrow locations
Work continues and we need your help! We host burrow-building workdays throughout the spring and fall. Contact Cathy Wise for more information or to RSVP. Check out the 2018 schedule here.
Owl's eye view of the burrow
A mother Burrowing Owl (we call her B79) had been hard at work raising owlets at 16th Street. She was rescued from 43rd Ave and Southern on 9/11/14, released in the Rio Salado Habitat on 3/16/15, and stuck around to lay 3 eggs in Spring 2016. Check her out in the video below, and watch the rest of the Owl Cam footage here.
Arizona's secret owl
About half of our workday volunteers didn't know about Burrowing Owls until they signed up for the workday. To remedy this, Audubon Arizona partnered with Phoenix Center for the Arts to host the Downtown Owl poster contest. (See the winners and some of the entries here.)
Educators: Check out our Downtown Owls Outreach Program!
How a Former Phoenix Landfill Became Home for Displaced Burrowing Owls
Knock, Knock: Who's There?
How you can help, right now
Sign up for a conservation workday!
You can help restore polluted environments or build habitat for displaced Burrowing Owls. Click here for more information.
Donate to Audubon Arizona
Donate to save birds and educate the conservation leaders of tomorrow.


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We organize each meeting from beginning to end in accordance with the specific needs of our client and tailor made planning regarding its objectives. Starting from the number of assistants, their profile and the meetings objectives we manage to find the ideal location, and go through every detail involved such as audiovisual material, hospitality and catering, branding and supporting staff.
We design activities for companies that will turn out as an unforgettable experience for the whole team. With each of our clients' objectives in mind, giving great creativity and distinction, we plan a personalized schedule and program taking care of every detail to make every participant feel unique. CREA offers a 360º which includes lodging, transfers, activities, visits, lunch, dinners, supporting staff and any other more personalized need the incentive could require.
Workshops, seminars and conferences have become a very effective tool to communicate, present a service, captivate clients and promote products or campaigns. We take care of the complete or partial management of every service involved: location, audiovisual material, furniture, catering, supporting staff, interpretation service, accreditation and guest management… Because every detail counts in order to guarantee the success of a press conference, an informative breakfast or a commercial presentation
We take care of all matters that lead to an excellent performance for a convention to assure every assistant lives a unique and exciting experience. Analyzing your needs we elaborate a tailor made proposal based on your objectives and budget. We search for the right venue, lodging, meeting rooms, hospitality, catering and supporting staff needed. We also take care of audiovisual services, branding, transfers, indoor and outdoor activities, visits, gala dinners or award ceremonies, perfect finale for this type of events. In addition we provide the entire coordination of the event with a Technical secretary and a professional team dedicated 24/7 to track, monitor and problem solve any incident that may come up.
We adapt to the most specific and demanding profiles. Our resources enable us to organize all types of events adjusting to the most diverse and unique forms. We take responsibility throughout all the steps of the process:
- Technical Secretary: Assistant data base management
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We design, organize and take care of the assembly and supervision of any exposition. We identify the objectives and the profile of the target audience and offer all the required tools adapted to the budget and client needs.
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We organize your companies' sponsorship participation at any event. Optimizing resources for the most outstanding presence, aligned with the content and context you want to communicate. We organize vehicle fleets, professional driver services, stands, supporting staff, marketing and promotion actions, gala dinners, cocktails and all types of small and large format graphic production.
CREA offers a unique added value in the event organization sector: a comprehensive consultancy service in the production of events. The client will receive guidance from our qualified team of experts, who will accompany you through each step of the event, giving the right solutions for your needs. We put at your disposal our "Know-How" to ensure astounding and optimized results for each event, meeting, incentive or convention adapting it to its necessities and budget, elaborating a tailor-made project providing innovation, creativity and efficiency aligned with the company values.


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A man threatened a woman with a hammer and demanded her phone during a robbery in a Dewsbury shopping centre.
Kirklees CID today said officers would like to speak to anyone who has information after the offence between 3pm and 3.30pm on Wednesday, October 11 outside the Poundland store in the Princess of Wales Shopping Centre.
Detective Constable Jordan Bower of Kirklees CID said: "This was clearly a very frightening experience for the victim and we would like to speak to anyone who saw the robbery or who saw a man and woman fitting this description in shopping centre shortly before or after the offence took place.
The victim felt a pull on her handbag and when she turned round, saw a white woman trying to steal from it.
The 21-year-old tried to flee but was confronted by a man who threatened her with a hammer and demanded her phone.
The man then took her bag and made off with it.
The female culprit was described as about 20-years-old, 5ft 5ins tall and of a skinny build with dark brown shoulder length hair. She was seen wearing a dark green jacket.
The man was about 30 years-old, 5ft 9ins tall, thin, and clean shaven with dark coloured short hair. He was wearing a tracksuit and carrying a hammer, police said.
Det ConBower said: "Anyone who has information should contact Kirklees District CID on 101 referencing crime number 13170472098.
"Information can also be given anonymously to the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111."


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Basket Festival
In 1858, Berlin Heights, Ohio resident Samuel Patterson founded the Berlin Fruit Box Company. The Berlin Fruit Box Company made baskets, crates, and ladders needed by the beautiful and bountiful local orchards and family farms.
While the Berlin Fruit Box Company closed its doors a handful of years ago after becoming a local institution after six generations of the Patterson family crafted practical and limited edition baskets, the heritage and history of the basket making craft still remains a cornerstone of the culture and traditions of the Berlin Heights area.
Many of the same beautiful and bountiful orchards and family farms still surround the area and provide delicious fruits, vegetables, jams, wines, and family fun. The Basket Festival honors the rich, local history of the Berlin Heights area and celebrates the bright future of this friendly and close-knit community.
If you missed the 2018 Basket Festival, you'll have to wait a whole year to check it out on Friday, August 2 and Saturday, August 3, 2019! We hope to see you, your friends and family next year to help celebrate Berlin Heights and the surrounding community.


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The skin is a manifestation of a person's wellness. Therefore, it is not enough to only consider external factors in the pursuit of beautiful skin. The truth is that beautiful skin must also come from within.
That is why we take into consideration all the elements that affects skin health, particularly factors such as stress and fatigue. This is what sets us apart. At Beaubelle, we believe in holistic and harmonious solutions that involve the integration of body, mind and soul. Perhaps beautiful looking skin may be achieved in a quicker and non-holistic way for the short term, but true sustainable skin beauty can only be achieved the holistic way.
For us, holistic skin rejuvenation means ensuring that we take a responsible and well-rounded approach towards formulating natural, safe and non-harmful Swiss skin care products and creating complete skin care regimens that improve all aspects of inner and outer skin health.
We put this to practice daily in all areas of our organization and especially at our Beaubelle Advanced Dermocosmetic Research Centre in Switzerland. From the R&D stage and production to how we advise and treat our clients personally, our singular goal is always to deliver body, mind and soul harmony.
Fittingly, our blueprint for Holistic Skin Rejuvenating is inspired by the harmony of nature's four seasons and follows the 4Rs Principle – Renew, Revive, Rebalance & Relax.
Spring is a time for renewal, Summer a time for revival, Autumn for rebalancing and Winter for relaxing.
Read more below about how the seasons have inspired our approach to holistic skin rejuvenation.
For Vitality
- After the melting of snow, new life and growth bursts with vital energy
- Dark and gloomy transforms into bright and lively
- Ignite the same renewal in your skin with high potency actives
For QI Flow
- Dynamic and lively growth revives the life force within all nature
- The flow of energy is uninterrupted and at its highest peak
- Similarly, you can revive your skin's QI flow with oxygen-activating products
For Purity
- Healthy produce is harvested and the spoilt are discarded, clearing the Earth
- Nature rebalances herself to prepare for rest during winter
- In the same way, you can clear and balance your skin with efficient skin preparation products, removing impurities and preparing the skin to heal.
For Calmness
- Winter represents a season of relaxation and peace, calm and quietness
- Nature takes a deserved break, as she prepares for another new cycle of life
- You too, can relax and calm your skin with aromatherapy and delicate pampering products, so it too, can take a well-deserved rest.