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Huami Amazfit Cor Review: The Worthy Continuation to Xiaomi Mi Band 2
Currently, the smartband market is one of the most attractive niches for manufacturers. But because of this, newer brands enter there every day. As a result, the smartband sales have increased significantly. According to the statistics, there were sold over 21.6 million smartbands in Q2, 2017. As for the previous quarter, the shipment volume reached up to 24.7 million units. Thus totally about 50 million smartbands were sold in the first half of 2017. In comparison to 2014, when this niche began gaining momentum, there were sold only 28.9 million units during the whole year.
Looking at early statistical data we can notice Fitbit was an absolute leader in the market. But now Xiaomi is considered to be the sole leader in the market with a market share of 17.1%. That's not difficult to guess Xiaomi and Huami come in with some cooperation. That's it. And the smartband made jointly has become the most popular in the niche. Yes, we are talking about the Xiaomi Mi Band 2. Moreover, Huami is considered to be one of the rings in Xiaomi's ecological chain. However, Huami not only launches wearables in cooperation with Xiaomi, but also has its own line, AMAZFIT. I guess most of you are familiar with the Huami Amazfit smartwatch and its simpler version.
Check out this Xiaomi Mi Band 2 deal.
As I said, recently, the company launched a new amazing smartband dubbed as the Huami Amazfit Cor. So we should get a closer look at it to understand how the manufacturer is going to keep its leading position.
Huami Amazfit Cor Appearance
The Huami Amazfit Cor comes in a white box. Like other Xiaomi products it uses minimalistic design and you won't find anything but the manufacturer's logo and main information about the product.
Inside the box, we can find the smartband itself and the charger. As you guess, it works on magnetic docks.
The Amazfit Cor sports a 1.23-inch IPS LCD color touchscreen covered with a 2.5D arc glass as well as Corning Gorilla Glass 3. Just a reminder, all other smartbands use a black and white one. The overall display surface is coated with an anti-fingerprint material. Below it, we can see a small key, which has been placed there to make the smart band wake up. No need to worry about anything, because it works identically to any smartphone. Thanks to it the manufacturer could avoid from putting any additional buttons and keys on the device.
The strap is made of an anti-tear silicone. And there are no printings on it. When looking at it and wearing the smartband we have a feeling of a premium class wearable.
The chassis is made of a 316L stainless steel. It also undergoes the world's most time-consuming and premium MIM process for a one-piece stainless steel shell & PVD physical vapor deposition process. Say, the iPhone X uses this technology.
When looking at it from aside, a silver-gray metal frame is noticeable clearly.
The back of the bracelet carries a two-pin charging interface. Plus, there is also a PPG heart rate sensor.
As the bracelet uses a buckle design, the wristband can be damaged rapidly. That's why the company has launched up to six color options for people with different taste.
The Huami Amazfit Cor comes with dimensions of 43x22x9.9mm and weighs only 32 grams.
Read: Huami Amazfit Cor Unboxing
Huami Amazfit Cor and the APP
As the Huami Amazfit Cor supports Xiaomi's APP, all the operations can be controlled via it.
It's easy to download and install the APP. Use the QR code inside the user manual and download it. You can even search for it manually. The results will be identical.
Then, you have to sign in or sign up adding the required personal information.
If you use WeChat, its account can be used to log in automatically. After this process, the bracelet will sync data to APP via Bluetooth. By the way, it supports v4.1.
The Mi Sports APP main page shows the main sections of body monitoring. But if you don't like it, just customize it in the way you want.
There are four features: outdoor run, indoor run, outdoor riding, and walking. The latter can run without enabling the GPS function. The rest three functions require GPS enabled.
In comparison with other bracelets and their software, the Huami Amazfit Cor and Mi APP focuses on a scientific fitness rather than a simple sports exercises. You can find popular fitness programs, diets, and other sports data that will help you lose weight cleverly.
The Mi APP can automatically calculate how long you have to run, walk or do different exercises to achieve your target. It can be shared with your friends. You can even check out each other's information and make each other don't lie down.
Huami Amazfit Cor Key Features
Mainly there are 7-8 features we should pay attention at.
Though almost all smartbands support the function of waking up when the hand rises, not all of them react well and quickly. As you can see, the Huami Amazfit Cor has no problem with this function.
The Huami Amazfit Cor comes with an intelligent interface. This means the bracelet can understand whether you are sleeping or not and provide the main functions or turn them off.
Unlike other bracelets, this one shows not only the time and date but also shows weather for coming weeks. This is great for outdoor sports enthusiasts.
It's a smartband, so it comes with Heart rate monitoring, Footstep measurements, Distance traveled, Burned calories, Sleep monitor, sedentary reminder, and many other health monitoring options. When the Sedentary function is activated, the APP will remind the user to get up every 1 hour. Actually, there are many useful functions, but there are shortcomings as well. Say if you want to track your running route, you should carry your phone with you. There is no GPS built-in module.
The Huami Amazfit Cor supports message notification function. So once you get a new message it will be pushed directly to the screen. However, only up to 54 words will be displayed.
There are three alarm modes: weekdays, every day, and tomorrow. The alarm time change is implemented via the APP.
One of the selling points of this smartband is its ability to be immersed in water for up to 50 meters. Many think it's a regular function for all smartbands. But do not confuse it for the IP68 certificate, which means a product can be immersed in a water for 1.5m and left there for up to 30 minutes.
Huami Amazfit Cor Waterproof Test
After 20 minutes
Everything works properly.
Huami Amazfit Cor Battery
This smartband is equipped with a 170mAh battery, which can be used for up to 10 days on a single charge if believing the official data. So we decided to test it ourselves. We tested it for four days and there was remaining up to 85% of electricity. So 10 days usage causes no doubts.
As for charging, we began the process when there was remaining 70% of power. And it took only an hour to charge it fully. Thus the official information as the Huami Amazfit Cor can be charged to 100% in 2.5 hours is proper.
This smartband comes with a stylish look and a list of useful features. It really differs from its competitors in many aspects. This is rare. So, we are sure the Huami Amazfit Cor will help the company to save the title of the best-selling wearable. On the other hand, it's priced affordably. Agree 299 yuan ($45) is not much for smartband coming our way from a top brand.
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Use the coupon (code: AMABAND).


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How many times must
you lose just to keep winning?
It's complicated!
J Richards of Sanford, Florida, offers visual and written commentary, poetry and quirkery. copyright (c) 2019
How many times must
you lose just to keep winning?
It's complicated!
boys run like girls – who
teaches stiff-arm swingin' gait?
does the lisp cost more?
crisp cutting wind saws
through flesh and brings bones shivers
wet gulf and ocean
(Near Forty° at Four)
t-shirt shivvering
boy gone to heater on wheels
a half-hour stalk!
If (I understand)
better would I be me still
or some full copy?
ask any questions
you know already answer
and life still bites you
Humor too real
for honor long to ignore:
it says so right here!
let my aches scab hard
and still skint knees keep laughing
where I keep humor
start midwinter green
more rust and gray-shot-through
(another lost line!)
last stop for this cage
ubiquitous box updown

subset: commoncrawl


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Keep Track of DRM Protected Content in iTunes
I mentioned in my post on DRM being removed from iTunes that I track DRM content using a Smart Playlist. I'm fine with some DRM content, but I like to keep a handle on what is DRM-protected. iTunes makes this easy, just create a Smart Playlist like this.
DRM protected tracks have the word "Protected" in their Kind description, so this will let you easily keep tabs on what content you have this is DRM restricted.
This can be a really useful playlist to subtract DRM protected content out of other playlists using this. For example, if you wanted all content added in the last 6 months, that is not DRM protected do this.
This is particularly useful if you are trying to sync content to a device that will not play FairPlay protected tracks.


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Dear girls, today we are going to read about a very important topic for all younger and experienced porn stars, this is going to be the strategy behind the scenes. What shall you do to be a successful porn star and porn star escort? What are the necessary steps to be a top earner among adult industry porn star and escort girls? Here are some basic rules for you that you should follow. Hope it will…more
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The Elder Scrolls Online Preview - Mud Crabs & Joe DiMaggio
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The Elder Scrolls Online Preview - Mud Crabs & Joe DiMaggio
Feels like The Elder Scrolls, right down to the mud crabs and nirnroot.
I have a couple of friends with their eyes on TESO, and the thing that's keeping them on the fence is whether or not there's a subscription fee, or if it opts for the Guild Wars 2 business model, i.e., pay for the game at a base price rather than a monthly subscription fee.
I was just a dubious, and I've never really been one for MMO. But pop down to the hardware store, pick out the biggest tin of 'interested' colour paint they have and bring it here. I need to cover myself in interested.
Oh, very much not. I've rarely seen a "We're not talking about that" come out of a dev's mouth faster than when the ESO guys were asked that question.
okay. uhm. why did you question this?
you know being able to mod an online game is a bad idea.
if you had asked if you can alter the user interface, well that would had been great..
now thats sounds dirty..
Was the combat as static and stiff looking as it seemed in the early gameplay demos?
Like was there a ton of standing still and cycling off abilities? Or is movement encouraged?
That was the biggest thing that turned me off this game. That and the fact it's following a long line of MMORPG's that promised so much and delivered so little -_-
What was the combat actually like? It sounds like you have some pretty cool moves but how did it actually play out? Still point and click style or did it take more from other TES games?
So many games I want to play are hopefully coming out soon...
I might not even have enough time to play them all as much as I want...
Yeah no, I still have the same worries that I had when it was announced, and some of them are kinda confirmed in this preview
First: the approach of "The story where YOU are the hero" again. Why do mmos keep needing to do this ? I play in a world with THOUSAND of other people, I don't WANT to be considered the centerpiece of the game, even more when other players are considered the same. Not only that, but let me chose my OWN story to freaking play, please. What if I just want to play some lonewolf who just spends my time happily hunting the wildlife in the mountains and taking bounties ? Of course the game won't entirely stop me from doing that, but I know as hell it won't reward me as much than following their cookie-cutter main plot.
It kinda forebodes the same problem that the other mmos who took the same approach had: once you're finished with the main story, you just have the same repetitive tasks at hand, and whatever deity helps you if the pvp is sub-par or unbalanced, because then you have a dead weight on your hard drive.
My second gripe is just that it doesn't seem to be taking anything from what makes the original elder scrolls series good: as in a sandbox approach and freedom. The fact that it's a "classic" mmo and not a sandbox pretty much cuts all the things I would want to do in a TES mmo: breaking into people's houses or guild halls, stealing from their pockets, establishing my own little guild with houses, even maybe a little stronghold that other players could attack later on, finding that magic artifact which will make me a target for every bounty hunter in the world.
As much as TES and the other mmos alike are trying to make me feel special with an epic storyline, it just makes me feel even more like the average schmuck who will be doing the exact same thing as me, for the exact same reasons.
Ugh, the more I hear about this game the harder it is to keep my expectations in check. From a hypothetical standpoint this game sounded like a failure right out the gate, but... I really, really want it to be good and this definitely makes me feel that it may be after all.
Don't fail me TESO!
Does it really matter if it comes out with a subscription? Judging by basically every other big budget MMO since WoW launched, it will probably be free to play within a week anyway.
OT: This game looks pretty good, this preview has piqued my interest. I'm playing Guild Wars 2 at the moment, and quite enjoying that, definitely seems more fun than when I used to play WoW, but that might just be because I play GW with my best mate, rather than on my own. Not that I'm all that far into GW, since I'm a level 33 or so, out of 80.
Essentially, I just don't dedicate enough time to MMO's, or any one game, so if it does have a subscription fee, I definitely won't get it till it goes F2P.
A free to play style of payment would be really great, but failing that I would also accept a Guild Wars 2 model, but a subscription based game is not for me.
I've been sitting here with my Bond-Villain chair in wait to see what tricks this pony performs as well.
My Beta Entry has been handed in and I wait, as all MMO enthusiasts do, with cautious optimism.
They have the ability and the following to topple WoW. StarWars fans aren't necessarily gamers, GuildWars only had their following from the last game, FinalFantasy has this horrible tumour called Square Enix they need to wrestle with before making a good game. All of this combined with word of mouth and doing things both better, as good as, and fresher than WoW will be the only way. So far these all seem like nice ideas and good approaches, but it's always got to be bigger, louder, newer and all inclusive of the features that worked in the formula combined with the new ones.
They have the ingredients.
But this contender has my eye at least. It's a start. GuildWars 2 Didn't even get that courtesy from me, and I'm pretty picky in my MMO fare.
Also I think they're rushing development of this MMO. Personally. This is my qualm with it.
Guild Wars 2 has set the bar really high and nothing I've seen about ESO makes me think they're up to the challenge.
The Elder Scrolls series does not lend itself to MMO gameplay. This is a massive misstep.
I have such a hard time believing that you forgot you were playing a mmo. The preview looks good but it is so easy to get good press prior to a games release. Lets see what happens when it is actually out.
No idea but looks pretty.
It doesn't matter to me, as I won't be playing it, but it matters to my buddies because we're still students, so a steady income doesn't exist as of yet, and one of these friends already had an account with WoW for a couple of years before he closed it, and it ate hundreds of Euro. Basically, it's an expense they can't afford for a game they want to get into on day 1.
A lot of what I am reading here addresses issues I have with other MMO's. The screenies look pretty good and not cartoony. I'm looking forward to seeing what they release and hope that it's going to live up to expectations.
So it isn't a WoW clone.
It's a GW2 clone! Just with shittier combat. Great, it'll probably be dead within 2 years. Free to play within 1.
Very much looking forward to this, especially seeing that it won't be a generic MMO quest format.
This is addressing my main problem with the main Elder Scrolls games which is how empty they feel. I love em but it really makes you feel alone in the world, even with companions, and seeing other adventurers will make it much more interesting. Hopefully this turns out well.
I didn't ask the question, another journalist did. I just thought the answer was amusing, so I wanted to share it.
Not sure why you're calling me a liar, but you are correct in being cautious with your expectations. This is an MMO, after all, and I saw just a teeny, weeny part of a starting area. Who knows what happens at higher levels? Who knows how the game's community will behave? There's a ton still not to know about ESO. What I saw, I really enjoyed, but there's a whole lot I didn't see - and a whole lot that doesn't really exist in any kind of final state yet.
Uh, what kind of skill is Provisioner?
They should make an optional system that replaces PC names with procedural lore-accurate names. You know, for people who don't want to see Billy1234 passing by on the quiet provincial streets.
From what we read, I'm guessing it is cooking (remember she walked up to a cooking pot with ingredients) After which we were told about the crafting system.
I'm hearing more and more good things about this....... And if Ms. Susan "I hate MMOs" Arendt enjoyed it then that is pretty high praise.
My cautious optimism is starting to change to impatient desire....
or "XxXYoMamA1337XxX" for that matter. Yuck.
I am not much of an MMO player since highschool, but color me interested to at least see how it looks released.
I'm sorry but this sounds like a disaster in the making. The media are getting a play test but there is a mountain of items that need to be worked on still. You know what that means, rushed content.
I like the Elder Scrolls so I'm hoping for the best, but honestly I'm seeing some yellow flags here (not red, just yellow at this point.)
Is the combat similar to that of Skyrim or does it play like more s traditional MMORPG?
Or you could play on an RP server, which almost every MMO has. If this doesn't, that's a big misstep on the deve's part.
It's also coming out on Macs as well, you say?
Awesome! I was about to be super bummed about the whole thing and I was thinking, "Too bad I wouldn't be able to play it," before getting to that part. I'm still a little skeptical about it since I want to know how the whole thing works, but I'm more optimistic about the whole thing now than when I saw the announcement.
Yeah, I'm not into MMOs at all and I find them rather boring when I made an attempt at them, but this one caught my attention. I was really skeptical about the whole thing since I didn't think it could work, but it looks like it could be something I could lose hours into easily.
EDIT: After looking at the screenshots I'm gonna have to try to get over the fact that there are spiders, and try to fight them without freaking out. Ugh.
Oh i'm hyped, and damn you Susan for getting me even MORE hyped about this. It just makes me sad that it isn't out yet.
What existing TES title does the game feel like so far? Oblivion? Skyrim? I'm doubting Daggerfall, but maybe a dash of Morrowind in there?
I don't think it does,
There are so many things that could go wrong with that.
The one issue I have (apart from if it goes subscription) is the combat. I'm sick of hotbars, and don't want to play another game centred around "stare at the slowly reloading boxes". Which is exactly what it seems to boil down to despite the 'synergy' claims.
It also looks like aesthetically like Fable, which isn't necessarily bad, it's just not the Elder Scrolls.
Susan, you crafty woman! You've caused me to Squee. This game looks amazing so far, though, as others before, I'm very curious on if the combat is your typical one click, spells, next enemy, or more TES style.
Suddenly I have hope for this game. When I first saw it my heart died a saddened death. But now it actually sounds like it'll be a good experience. Damn, might have to get it after all.
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text: 08-26-2009 August 26, 2009 Well of course I had to hook up the Atari 2600 after playing the Intellivision yesterday. Like this:Like Loading... « August 25, 2009August 27, 2009 » no comments email a friend Your email is never published or shared. Required fields are marked * Name * Email * Website Comment Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Notify me of new posts by email. Back to top|Contact me


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Planning Commission
- Joined
- Jul 19, 2015
- Messages
- 371
- Reaction score
- 70
- Points
- 28
- Location
You may call for peace as loudly as you wish, but where there is no brotherhood there can in the end be no peace
~ Max Lerner
Can't have Bulletiapa twice a year, but definitely can ride few miles to meet our brothers. So here is the chance again to meet our brothers and celebrate like we always do. Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai and Pune are coming together to celebrate the Quad Chapter Meet 2018 and what better than a location than Goa.
Event Details:
Date: 10th & 11th February 2018
Event Start Time: 10:00 Hrs on 10th February
Event End Time: 09:00 Hrs on 12th February
Event Address: Jamaica's Cabo Wabo
Address: Girkarwado, Near ASH, Arambol Beach, Goa 403524
Website: http://jamaicasworld.com/
Location: https://goo.gl/UTXrGu
Registration amount: 3600 INR
Registration amount covers:
2 nights and 2 days stay at the place
Lunch and Dinner for 10th February
Breakfast and Dinner for 11th February
Last Date of Registration: 3rd February 2018
Registration amount does not cover (but not limited to):
Personal expenses not mentioned in the above list
Room services
Additional meals ordered outside the package
Alcohol, cigarettes etc.
Travelling or bike shipping expenses
Usage of additional resort facilities that is outside the package
Medical or hospitalization expenses except basic first-aid that will be provided at the place along with ambulance services
Bike repair and maintenance / mechanic charges
**For Registration details please connect with your regional Chapter Heads.
Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/events/512128085836732/


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System Development Toolkit | PEFC International
Standard Setting Process
The document, PEFC ST 1001:2017, Standard Setting - Requirements, provides considerable detail on how to undertake the standard setting process in line with PEFC requirements.
The diagram below outlines the key stages of the standard setting process up to the publication of the standard. It also highlights the need for periodic revision of your standard.
For additional guidance to help you to meet the requirements, the following frequently asked questions are addressed:
- What is stakeholder mapping and how do I do it?
- How can I encourage participation in the standard setting working group/committee?
- What is balanced representation?
- How to get consensus?
- What to take as a basis for a first draft?
What would you recommend when beginning the standard setting process?
"Make contact with other PEFC members who share basic common interests such as: region, similar forest types, social, cultural and economic characteristics and/or a common language. Having their guidance and learning from their experiences was key to the Cerfoar development."
Florencia Chavat
"Very early on in the standard setting process, start contacting stakeholders and actively building their interest and involvement in the process. Their participation is not only required during the development phase but also once the System is ready for implementation, so build strong channels of communication and opportunities for active engagement."
Kees Boon
PEFC Netherlands
Your Toolkit
PEFC Annual Review
Recent News
- Going beyond forests: PEFC to open certification to farmers and agroforestry - Give your feedback now!
- Call for Proposals: the 2018 PEFC Collaboration Fund competition is now OPEN
- India launches its national forest certification system!
- We explain the changes to our group certification standard
- American Tree Farm System and Czech Republic achieve PEFC re-endorsement


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I owe a huge thanks to my volunteers and in this instance there has been an incredible amount of work done by Ken from the copies of the original drawings that the London Transport Museum allowed me access to.
It took all day to ensure that the components married up together, with minor adjustments here and there, but the platform structure is now all bolted together and can support being stood on. In fact, I jumped up and down (the joy came afterwards when I realized that it all worked) and the whole back of the bus bounced up and down on the rear suspension, the way that it should. Capital Radio once got an elephant to stand on the platform of one of the RTs that they owned and it broke off. Their platform was not constructed like this one. With the new risers and new, reinforced platform frame, I think we could do that stunt again and succeed. But we won't try. Me jumping up and down on it is close enough.
We're not finished, but we have passed a major milestone with regards to the platform area and the other bits will fall into place now. Rubber matting will be fitted but I need to get marine plywood as the base and it won't be the cheap stuff. The next restoration schedule for this bus is planned to be after I am long gone and hence the reason for going the extra mile.


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Electro‑Voice Takes SXSW 2008 By Storm! Venues & Performers Prefer EV!
Electro-Voice recently proved its #1 pro audio brand status in Austin, Texas, the self-proclaimed "Live Music Capital of the World". Found onstage at the most talked about SXSW venues and showcases, the EV brand rubbed elbows (and lips) with the likes of rock god Lemmy (Motorhead), critic darlings Vampire Weekend, Sons & Daughters, as well as uber-cool-kids, The Black Keys. And that's just for starters…
From March 7 - 16th Austin was inundated with the hippest of the hip, including producer Daniel Lanois, festival keynote speaker Pete Townshend, Billy Bob Thornton, and culinary celebrity Rachel Rae, the latter of whom hosted her own rock showcase. More than 13,000 music enthusiasts attended the official SXSW conference and over 2,000 bands performed throughout the city's labyrinth of music venues. From cult legend Jandek to Athens, Georgia's favorite sons, R.E.M., performers poured in from all corners of the globe to see and be seen, to play, and carve a niche in the ever-changing music industry landscape. According to the Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau, the 2008 conference had a $110 million dollar economic impact on the city of Austin.
"Having EV at Antone's is like a whole new world! The quality and reliability of our Electro‑Voice sound system has had great acclaim from bands and music fans alike, especially during SXSW 08."
The logistics that go into SXSW are mind-numbing. There are parking issues, hotels are booked full months in advance, restaurants operate round-the-clock, police staffing is increased, amongst other contingencies put in effect to successfully manage over 50,000 non-natives who converge on the city. Given that over 200 clubs and stages must operate simultaneously, it's a great time of year for Austin-based and neighboring Texan sound companies. For one week in March every sound engineer is busy 24 hours a day, having been hired sometimes as far as a year in advance. The same goes for the rental business; try to find a mobile P.A. in Austin during SXSW. Rental company warehouses are empty, often with 100% of their stock out on jobs. Sub-rentals skyrocket.
With so many venues operating simultaneously and a proliferation of talented acts from around the world performing, the quality of a venue's sound system becomes paramount. If a patron doesn't like the quality of sound they'll simply walk next door. And venue owners can't afford that; if they lose bodies to bad sound, they don't sell alcohol, which negatively affects their bottom line.
That being the case, Austin venue owners and operators are very particular about the quality of sound. Thus, it's only fitting that Austin is an Electro-Voice town, and has become steadily more so from year to year.
Although following a bit behind the cultural zeitgeist noticed by countless other industries, in 2004 Electro-Voice recognized the indisputable SXSW cultural phenomenon and took an active role in making sure that Electro-Voice became the premiere pro audio brand in Austin, Texas. Offering limited sponsorships to a handful of clubs, in 2004 Electro-Voice began its campaign to make the EV logo ubiquitous in Austin. Now, in 2008, Electro-Voice marks its fifth year of activity at SXSW - and with it the addition of Monte Wise to the coordination and implementation of all things EV in Austin.
Monte Wise, Director of Special Projects, Electro-Voice, who now lives and works in Austin, was involved in the sale and installation of two very high profile systems in Austin: ME TV's soundstage (used for ME live tapings) and the legendary club Antone's. Wise remarks: "I see these installations as just the beginning of developing an even higher profile EV presence in Austin and at SXSW."
Susan Antone (of Antone's) points out: "Having EV at Antone's is like a whole new world! The quality and reliability of our Electro-Voice sound system has had great acclaim from bands and music fans alike, especially during SXSW 08. Everyone from Billy Bob Thornton to Vampire Weekend raved about our sound. Antone's is so excited and proud to have EV in our venue."
Wise comments: "Austin is such a great music city and it has been exciting to be involved with the artists and club owners in my first year here in Texas. I know that EV will continue to gain ground and increase its already growing presence in Austin and at SXSW."
Wise was also involved as a participant in the "Live Sound Quickie Session" at SXSW 2008, interacting with over fifty attendees. Wise remarks: "I met some great people, from musicians to lawyers, all of whom had passion for music and wanted to learn all they could. I received numerous emails from attendees thanking me for helping demystify live sound. I look forward to participating in future SXSW events."
Like Monte Wise, EV artist endorser/street team organizer Dave Wolfe was instrumental in making EV's presence known at this year's SXSW. Since moving to Austin in late 2003 to pursue his own career as musician and luthier, Dave Wolfe has flown the EV flag throughout town, turning musicians and engineers on to EV products. This year Wolfe placed banners, demo'd mics for engineers and performers (incl. showing them how clean microphone ball screens, yuck), and cruised the city on his custom chopper and documented the real world use of the company's products "in the trenches" with the likes of Lemmy (Motorhead), X, Lonesome Spurs, and countless others. Without doubt, Dave is the Truman Capote of Austin, Texas. But Dave does more than take photos and take quotes - and hob knob with celebs. EV endorser Dave plays over 150 shows a year as a highly sought after upright bassist and guitarist in Midwest Monster, The Vibro Champs, Reverse Cowgirl, and half a dozen other pick-up ensembles.
What follows is a glimpse into the world of SXSW rock "n' roll venues. Without a doubt, the EV brand is pervasive!
Located just off 6th Street on Red River, on any given night you will find some of the best bands and the most colorful staff and patrons in all of Austin at this bar.
Emo's sports two stages, one inside and one outside, as well as a beer garden. Both stages feature either EV T Series or Zx Series speakers as well as all EV microphones. More than just about any club in Austin, for one week in March Emo's becomes home to the coolest record label parties during SXSW: Kill Rock Stars, 4AD, Yep Roc 1, and Daptone. Names like Doyle Bramhall, Jim Lauderdale, John Doe, Los Straightjackets, Jello Biafra, Mojo Nixon, Meat Puppets, The Walkmen, The Gossip, Youth Brigade, and the Buzzcocks have all played through the EV system here. In 2007 vocalist/guitarist Pete Shelley of the Buzzcocks was so impressed with the EV N/D967 vocal microphone that he signed an artist endorsement, something the band has historically been quite opposed to.
Bill Corsello, manager of Emo's remarks: "We work on the fly and the EV N/D468 is the perfect tom mic for quick placement and it delivers optimal frequency response. The 868 works great on bass cabs… It captures heaping loads of thumping lows and ice pick stabbing transients. Really, no matter what the application EV's N/DYM microphone series has a mic that is road worthy and sounds great."
Headhunters, a Tiki/Polynesian-themed rock club, kept crowds partying like fiends into the wee hours with a total EV/Dynacord sound system. Comprised of (2) EV Zx5 loudspeakers, Eliminator kW sub, Sx100+ powered monitors, a Dynacord PowerMate 1000 mixer, EV N/D967, Cobalt, and EV Raven mics, the relatively small system was more than accurate in terms of coverage and intelligibility. From EV endorsers Lonesome Spurs to the Hillbilly Hellcats and a Eugene Records and Rockabilly Magazine/Pabst Blue Ribbon showcase, Headhunters featured a number of no-holds-barred bands throughout the week. A favorite of celebrities including Quentin Tarrantino, the bar has also become "Home to the Texas Roller Derby". At any point of the day - from noon to 3 a.m. - lines formed in front of both the front room and patio entrance, as the club was consistently packed to capacity. The bar's FOH engineer Billy Milano (also lead singer of S.O.D. and M.O.D.) remarks: "The EV and Dynacord stuff sounds really great. And the mics take a real beating. It's the perfect gear for our stages; there's nothing better."
Continental Club
Another infamous music venue in Austin, The Continental Club, rated "Critic's Choice" for "Best Bars in America" by Playboy in 2000, once again relied on EV products during SXSW 2008. From N/D967 vocal mics, EV RE510 vocal mics, as well as N/D468s, N/D478s, N/D868s, and assorted other EV mics on drums, guitar, and bass, the Continental Club rocked hard with EV. Of course, Electro-Voice Cobalt mics were also a huge hit! From Detroit's Gore Gore Girls to southern troubadour Scott H. Biram to guitar-slinger Ian Moore, there was much to talk about at the Continental during SXSW. Note: The album art for Junior Brown's new The Austin Experience: Live at the Continental Club was photographed at the Continental. If features Junior singing into an EV N/D967. The N/D967 was also used as the primary mic for the main vocals on the recording!
Kevin Lemoine at the Continental Club (Main sound engineer with Green Day, Black Crowes, Reverend Horton Heat, Sum 41, Warped Tour, etc.) is duly impressed with EV microphones, finding the Co9/Co7 easier to handle, for some vocal applications than the N/D967. Kevin remarks: "I'm from the old school of less is more. The less a microphone is colored, the more you can work with it from a drive position. If you have a female vocal of someone with a deep voice like Red Volkart, it highlights both styles equally. Good mics." The Continental Club uses the N/D967 exclusively for vocals when Kevin is not at the helm. When Kevin is at FOH, suffice to say that he's got his EV Cobalts out!
When talking Austin clubs, who doesn't think of the great American roadhouse home of the austere star-in-oval logo reminiscent of Lone Star Beer and Jerry Jeff Walker - and trademark defenders Lukenbach? That's right, we're talking the legendary watering hole Beerland, one of Austin's most renowned clubs. Also featuring a complete selection of EV microphones, Beerland kept crowds happy with great EV sound, lots of cold suds, and performers like Deerhoof, Harlan T. Bobo and the Goodnight Loving.
Randall Stockton, owner of Beerland remarks: "EV microphones provide the performance and durability that Beerland requires. The Cobalt mics stand up to the abuse punk bands dish out better than any of their competitors, even the more expensive ones. And they sound great. Thanks EV!"
Billy Hankey, soundman for Beerland: "The mics really withstand the punishment of a punk rock venue. When the Reatrards played at Beerland, the singer proceeded to throw the mic stand with mic still attached against a brick wall on the back of the stage and to tell the truth, EV mics withstand that kind of treatment. He then picked up the same mic, put it in his mouth and sang. These mic really hold up to the test of punk rock insanity. My mics get thrown against the brick wall, wood wall, and concrete floors on a continual basis and they continue to work. Way to go EV! You have created a durable mic that doesn't sound like you're running everything through a megaphone. Now, if only you could install an anti-suck switch on my console, my life would be that much easier! "
We give our shout out to all-around-good-guys, music lovers, and civil disobedients Randall Stockton and Billy Hankey! Keep the EV freak flag flying!
RedGorilla Music Fest: Chuggin' Monkey, Darwin's Pub and Touche
The Chuggin' Monkey was created by three guys (two brothers and one friend) united by their love of the "good life". After extensive research in the Virgin Islands, many different entertainments districts, and countless New Year's Eve and Mardi Gras celebrations, the three came up with the Chuggin' Monkey.
As the headquarters for this year's RedGorilla Music Fest during SXSW, Chuggin' Monkey relies heavily on its audio quality to retain customers. Comprised of a mezzanine, a two-level courtyard in the back, and booths in the front, the club is designed to make the most of its premium location for walk-in traffic. The club's sound system is definitely at the top of the pack for all the systems on 6th street. The system comprises a Dynacord COBRA 2 system (3 tops, 2 subs, and an Xa4000 amp), (4) Px1122M Electro-Voice Phoenix monitors, and (2) Electro-Voice CP4000 power amplifiers. Electro-Voice microphones are employed top-to-bottom on the stage and Klark Teknik DN100 DI boxes handle all direct stage inputs. During SXSW 2008 RedGorilla's Kevin Sinclair ran FOH.
Likewise, next door at Darwin's Pub, also home to the RedGorilla music fest, a similar system is employed. The Darwin's Pub system features all Electro-Voice Phoenix full-range and subwoofer speakers: (2) Px1122 monitors, (1) Px2152, (2) Px2122, and (2) Px2182. Electro-Voice CP Series power amplifiers provide more than enough headroom as (4) CP4000 and (1) CP2200 amps are put to task. Electro-Voice microphones and Klark Teknik DI's handle all instrumentation and vocals. A Midas Venice 320 and Klark Teknik Square One Graphics and Dynamics are employed for all FOH duties.
Over the years, some of the hottest up-and-coming acts in the world have been showcased by RedGorilla Music Fest. As a result, RedGorilla Music Fest has received international media attention and a reputation for being the showcase for new music. Showcasing acts have included: Family Force 5 (Maverick), Dropping Daylight (Octone), Luna Halo (American), Bang Bang Bang (Warner Bros.), The Colour (EMI/Rethink), The Silent Years (No Alternative), Ligion (Maple Jam/ICON), Red Monroe (3 Concentric), The Muckrakers (Label X/Toucan Cove/Universal), FLOREZ, The Parlour Boys, Year Long Disaster, Radiant, Absent Star, The Hero Factor, The Gaskets and many more…
Also on 6th Street, Touche is a bit more glamorous than the clubs that immediately surround it. Known for their flair bartenders and the kind of histrionics made popular by Tom Cruise in Cocktail, audio plays a special part in an experience steeped in glitz, fashion, attitude, and bling.
The Touche system comprises (2) Electro-Voice Force i full-range loudspeakers, (2) Force i subs, (2) Force i 25, (3) Force i monitors, a Midas Venice 320 and Klark Teknik Square One Graphics and Dynamics. Electro-Voice microphones, as usual, are employed throughout.
Viper Room
As sister venue of the world-famous Viper Room in Los Angeles, Austin's Viper Room is no less impressive. Like the L.A. venue, Austin's Viper Room is EV top-to-bottom. FOH and monitors are Electro-Voice QRx loudspeakers and the venerable Midas Venice 320 can be found at FOH. Patrons are rarely surprised to find such musical celebrities as Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Lenny Kravitz, Pearl Jam, Iggy Pop, Sheryl Crow, as well as an array of other internationally established artists and the cult favorites of America's underground at the venue.
For video footage of EV products being used by bands like Sons & Daughters, The Donnas, and others at 2008 SXSW venues like Emo's, please visit the following You Tube links:http://www.youtube.com/v/6RVoEvcxpzY&hl=enhttp://www.youtube.com/v/0H6F8EEymCU&hl=enhttp://www.youtube.com/v/yNgjTvMp_uw&hl=en


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Spokane in Washington is the place to come if you are looking for a variety of activities that will suit visitors of all ages and preferences.
If you are a nature lover, then Spokane can be enjoyed all year round, and you will find hiking trails and parks galore, as well as winter activities like skiing and snowshoeing.
For those travelling with children, Spokane won't disappoint, as there are dedicated children's museums here as well as old fashioned attractions like antique carousels and fountains to cool off in during the summer months.
Music fans will find that all tastes are catered for in this city, as you can attend a concert with the powerhouse Spokane Symphony, or take in some live music at one of the vibrant bars in the Downtown district of this buzzing city.
Lets explore the best things to do in Spokane:
1. ROW Adventure Center
One of the great delights of Spokane is the chance to get outdoors and take in the natural beauty of this part of the United States, and the ROW Adventure Center is here to help you to do just that.
The company runs a series of adventure packages where you can explore the scenery in Spokane, and you can indulge in white water rafting along the scenic and swift-flowing Spokane River.
As you travel along this famous waterway, you will be able to take in majestic natural features like rocky bluffs and forestlands, and keen bird watchers can look out for eagles and ospreys that live in the area.


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iPhone X Case - Rose Gold - LoveCases Luxury Crystal
Most Helpful Reviews
199913Well made case with the look I was after, goes well with my bag and purse
Kirsty iPhone 10 30th January 2018
Great product244291So pleased with the product and the quick service
Pam Kearley IphoneX Kent 27th March 2019
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Why Buy?
- Glittering glamour at a glance for your iPhone X
- Embedded crystals for a touch of class
- Sturdy polycarbonate frame protects your device
- Slim fitting and lightweight
- Designed specifically for the iPhone X
Glittering glamour at a glance for your iPhone X
Comprising a sturdy frame and a coruscating curtain of crystals on its back, this iPhone X case truly lounges in the lap of luxury. The Luxury Crystal case from LoveCases wraps itself effortlessly around your device, clinging to its every contour and providing protection while augmenting the aesthetic of your iPhone and looking simply stunning while doing so.
Embedded crystals for a touch of class
On the back of this case are a bank of shimmering crystals, which, when they catch the light just right, shimmer in a mesmerising fashion - and fashion really is the word. The pattern is aesthetically pleasing and catches the eye when the device is placed face down or while you're using it out and about - perfect for attracting a little extra attention at a party, for example.
Sturdy polycarbonate frame protects your device
Lest you think this case is just a pretty face, think again. A sturdy, rigid polycarbonate frame - which nevertheless has the perfect amount of flexibility to protect your device - shields your iPhone X from drops, scrapes and bumps. You really can have it all with this attractive and protective cover.
Slim fitting and lightweight
This lightweight case provides excellent protection without adding any unnecessary bulk to your iPhone. This means that you will have no problems placing the phone in your pocket, bag or anywhere else. It also means the iPhone X's natural form is preserved as well as protected.
Designed specifically for the iPhone X
Designed specifically with the iPhone X in mind, you can rest assured that the ports and features of your device will remain fully exposed - including the rear camera, charging port and volume keys - so you can use your phone to the fullest capacity while it is in the case.
Key Details
|Rose Gold
Questions & Answers
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Delivery options
Royal Mail Economy: £2.19
Royal Mail's reliable economy postal service aims to deliver within 2-3 working days including Saturdays but may take longer. We guarantee to dispatch in-stock items on the same day (Monday to Friday) if you order before 6pm.*
*Please note orders for batteries and power banks may be subject to delays due to dangerous goods shipping requirements.
DPD Next Day Parcel: £6.99
DPD Next Day Parcel guarantees next working day delivery and will take two days for the Northern Highlands, Northern Ireland and other distant areas. For DPD deliveries, we guarantee to dispatch in-stock items on the same day (Monday to Friday) if you order before 6pm.*
provides a comprehensive tracking system, including a live driver tracker and a 1 hour delivery window. *Delivery
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*Please note next day delivery times may be affected during National Bank Holidays.
DHL Global Mail: £2.95
A low cost, reliable international posting service, suitable for your less urgent orders. This service is untracked and is usually delivered within 4-8 working days, or up to 20 working days (depending on location).
DHL International Air Express: From £12.95
Order before 6pm UK time for a fast, secure and reliable worldwide delivery. Your item will receive priority handling, and benefit from a full on-line tracking facility so you can check your mail's progress along the way. Usually takes 1-3 working days.
- Fast, same-day despatch when you order by 6pm on weekdays
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Delivery informationYou can view all of our delivery options, covering UK and international shipping by visiting our Delivery Information page.
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Buy with confidence. Our 30 Day Money Back Guarantee means you can return your item in exchange for a full refund or exchange.
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2018 Schedule
Additional Events
Membership & Newsletter
The Thumb Rose Society meets frequently to promote the culture and appreciation of the national flower, the rose.
We invite everyone to attend our meetings and events. See the tab:
2018 Schedule
. Many of our meetings are held in the meeting room at Green Acre Landscaping, 236 Pigeon Road (M-142), Bad Axe. If you have any questions on events or the care and growing of roses, please feel free to contact one of the officers listed on the
~ ~ ~
Coffee, tea and dessert, 50/50 raffle, "Question & Answer" session, and a Consulting Rosarian report on timely rose care are available at each meeting.
There is no charge to attend but we hope you will become a member (cost: $10) and join with us in enjoying and promoting rose growing.
Please see the page on Membership & Newsletter for a look at the special offers available to new members.
Medical Care Facility rose bed complete with map so you can identify that rose you love! Over 50 roses are here for you to enjoy!
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text: Lightning makes her 3rd appearance in Square Enix's Play Arts Kai series with this amazingly sculpted action figure. Scaling about 9 inches tall, she sports her latest design from Final Fantasy XIII Lightning Returns. She is highly articulated with extra hands, sword, shield, and display stand. Priced at about $60 (Amazon, bigbadtoystore.com).


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Call Of Duty: Black Ops 4 Blackout Beta Update Makes More Changes
Call of Duty: Black Ops 4's private Blackout beta has been underway on PS4 for the past several days, and now it's expanded to Xbox One and PC as well. Developer Treyarch continues to implement gameplay tweaks and other changes as the beta rolls on, and a new batch of adjustments have now gone live.
As the studio detailed on Reddit, both the Xbox One and PC Blackout betas will start off supporting 80 players, just as the PS4 version originally did. The PS4 beta, meanwhile, will maintain its recently increased 88-player cap. Treyarch says it will continue to test different player counts for the betas in order to optimize the mode before Black Ops 4's release next month.
In terms of gameplay tweaks, Treyarch has increased the amount of damage players sustain inside of the collapsed area. Additionally, the cargo plane that flies in supply drops now has more health and won't take damage from bullets. While using the wingsuit, players can now no longer gain altitude at high speed, and Treyarch has slightly increased how long it takes to pull up from a steep dive.
The developer has also implemented a number of bug fixes. One that would cause multiple players to spawn in the same spot in the Staging Area has now been resolved, as have others that would cause players to get stuck on the map. Additionally, the developer has fixed various issues with collision and the recently added killcam.
On September 15, the Blackout beta will expand to all PC players with a Battle.net account. Players on all platforms will be able to participate in the beta until 10 AM PT / 1 PM ET on September 17. Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 is scheduled to launch on PS4, Xbox One, and PC on October 12.
Author: GameSpot


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KARACHI: A rescue operation for those missing in Thursday's boat capsize tragedy near Thatta concluded on Friday.
Earlier on Friday, the rescue operation resumed with divers from the Pakistan Navy also taking part in the operation.
At least 17 people were killed and 47 injured as a boat carrying more than 80 pilgrims capsized due to heavy winds near the ancient city of Thatta on Thursday.
The dead included women and children, while 20 others were pulled from the sea alive, an official had said.
Rescue officials said on Friday that they pulled out two more bodies from the water, taking the death toll to 19.
Meanwhile, police said they have arrested two people, including the owner of the boat.
Around 80 pilgrims were on their way to a shrine 'mela' (fair) when their boat capsized in the open sea, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Thatta Haseeb Afzal said, adding that the boat was overloaded with passengers.
SSP Afzal said the incident took place near the shore and 52 passengers were successfully off-boarded by rescue sources.
Pakistan Navy teams left for the site of the incident for a rescue operation on Wednesday evening, a Navy spokesperson said earlier, adding that rescue boats were also dispatched.
Divers, medical personnel, and rescue staff are part of the Pakistan Navy's rescue team.-Web Desk


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Honor the Heroes of the Game, Preserve Its History, Promote its Values & Celebrate Excellence Everywhere
Share your pictures, videos, and stories from your visit to the Pro Football Hall of Fame on our social media. We might even feature you in one of our promotions!
Make your child's next birthday extra special with us! The Hall offers interesting exhibits filled with timeless mementos, movies in our Super Bowl Theater and "A Game for Life" Theater, and interactive features and exhibits throughout the museum that will keep kids entertained for hours. Don't worry about bringing all of the supplies because our Birthday Party Package includes everything you need except the cake!
Submit Request For Proposal


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Dudley North MP Ian Austin is backing moves in the House of Commons to ban discrimination of soldiers or their families.
While the Labour Party has already committed to making this change if they win power at the next election, Austin is joining other MPs in attempting to persuade the Government to act now.
The proposed law would increase the penalties for physical or verbal assault against a soldier if it was established that their service was the motive for the assault. It would also make it a crime for shops or restaurants discriminate against or refuse to serve members of the armed forces, just as they are already banned from doing so in relation to race or disability.
Ian Austin said:
"I believe we owe our Armed Forces, past and present, an enormous debt of gratitude, and part of repaying this debt is giving them our full support when they return home from fighting.
"I'm backing this Bill to ensure that assaults on soldiers are treated with the seriousness they deserve, along with other forms of discrimination against servicemen."


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We have a wide varierty of used Manufactured Homes in Texas, commonly known as Mobile Homes. We have a list of the repossessed houses from the banks and they sell for less. Really affordable Singlewides and Doublewides with competitive prices.
Privately owned used Mobile Homes, slightly used Manufactor Homes, and our specialty "Repo Mobile Homes" that Banks repossess. We can get geat really good deals on this repossessed Mobile Homes. Most of them are in the San Antonio, TX and Austin, TX area, but we can deliver anywhere.
Vanderbilt Mortgage, Green Tree and 21st Mortgage are thy primary lenders we work with to get you a good deal on a Mobile Home. Single Wides , Double Wides or Modulars.. 2 bedrooms, 3 bedrooms, 4 bedrooms or 5 Bedrooms. Five Bedroom Homes are hard to get though.


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While panels will always stand out after hearing driver/box combo after combo, I agree that PS audio/magnepan were special, and they were my best of show (I did not hear everything). Another in the room who had listened to the magnepans in their own room with nearly every amp including the new ps audio amp, said it was doing something special they had not heard from anything else - at all price points. Given the low (relative) price it seems a must audition for the magnepan owner and others for that matter.
Into the Home Stretch at High End Munich
Toward the end of the session, Paul McGowan (Mr. PS Audio) played me a track from David Chesky's children's ballet, The Zephyrtine. The freshness of its harmonies and frequent sparks of invention were like a vital breath of fresh air at a show where virtually everything else I heard seemed to share the dismayingly same harmonic vocabulary. Bravo, Paul and David.
The 250 features a triode front end and all-MOSFET output circuitry, and is the first product from PS Audio to include vacuum tubes. When McGowan commissioned veteran designer King to create the amp, he basically asked him to come up with a statement product, regardless of cost. I've yet to hear the Signature 250 in a room that allows all of its qualities to emerge unfettered, but what I have heard is very, very impressive.
Speaking of room, the photo provides an opportunity to see a bit of the raked ceilings in some of the rooms in the hallways of Atrium 4.2. There were vertical steel beams hanging down from the ceiling in key places before it leveled out, which further disrupted the flow of sound and caused all sorts of problems.
I'm afraid I needed an AudioQuest Jitterbug ($49) for my camera, because my photo of it and the AudioQuest Beetle ($149) Toslink-Bluetooth-USB DAC was anything but in focus. (My photo of the Beetle solo, above came out better, albeit far from great.) Not that the Jitterbug is intended for anything other than audio. A USB noise and power filter, the Jitterbug plugs into your computer's USB bus to filter both data and voltage. A second unit can be used in parallel to greater effect, though AudioQuest recommends no more than two JitterBugs per USB bus. This little baby, which seems like the perfect birthday gift for someone into computer audio, quite convincingly lowered the noise floor and improved sound in a short demo.
The Beetle, which has a 3.5mm mini-headphone output and an optional power supply for those who don't plug it into a computer that can supply power, connects with a micro type B terminated USB cable. It was designed specifically for TVs that lack good analog outputs, Apple TV, Sonos Connect, iPhones, and other devices, and can handle up to 24/96. It also reportedly has a lower noise floor and lower power requirement than the AQ Dragonfly USB DAC, which is certainly a good thing.
Timbres in the Absolare room were absolutely beautiful. I didn't write down what music we listened to, but the depiction of a horn was spot on. Even over ridiculously loud bass pumping up from below, I could sense the smoothness and quiet of the system.
Absolare introduced two eagerly anticipated products. The Absolare Passion 845 push-pull amplifier ($40,000), created with the goal of marrying the power of push-pull with the finesse of single-ended triode, outputs 85Wpc, a substantial amount of which is in class-A. Using zero feedback, it has both single-ended and balanced inputs.
Absolare's first phono stage, the Absolare Passion ($33,000), is a two-box design with separate power supply. An all-tube baby that does not use a step-up transformer, it has nine tubes total.
Doing the rest of the honors were Rockport Avior loudspeakers ($33,000/pair), an MSB Diamond DAC IV with PowerBase ($34,000), ReQuest The Beast with Galaxy clock server ($38,000), Steve Dobbins Kodo the Beat Signature turntable ($34,000) with Frank Schroeder tonearm ($10,000) and Lyra Atlas cartridge ($10,000), Echole Omnia cabling, a Torus Power Isolation transformer ($6000), Absolare Bybee Speaker Bullets ($5950/set of four), and Stabilian resonance control. One of many very serious systems that put music first at High End 2015.
The new product in this room was not the eye-catching TuneAudio loudspeakers, but rather Knut P. Skogrand's latest iteration of his handmade mono-crystal copper cables. Manufactured in a small shop in the mountains of Norway, the cables have distinctive custom option white silk with gold and silver brocade exteriors that look a bit like my mother's friend's upholstery. Skogrand claims that his cables have the only 100% air dielectric in the world, which allows the signal to travel very close to the speed of light.
"Our goal is as clean and fast as possible," said Skogrand before handing me a price sheet that I simply cannot find. But I can tell you that the terminations are custom-designed, rhodium-plated copper for the most expensive cables, and gold over copper for the rest.
In a system that also included products from VPI and ModWright, I greatly enjoyed the top end and inner detail on Artur Pizarro's performance of a Beethoven piano sonata. Despite room-associated problems, the flow was very good. But when I asked to hear Maria Callas' irreplaceable analog recording of Gluck's "J'ai perdu mon Eurydice," I discovered that the system was overemphasizing the middle of Callas' ever-distinctive voice, and exaggerating the range breaks that were growing more pronounced during her decline. My educated guess points the finger at the loudspeakers. Frankly, the YouTube version of the aria, which I also have as a 24/96 download from HDTracks, sounds more truthful to Callas' voice over a little Audioengine A2+/Transparent Audio USB combo than it did in this room.
This beautiful-looking system from Wilson Audio, Nagra, and Transparent delivered extremely natural sound on voices. In yet another room where no one was afraid to play opera, these folks were in the midst of enjoying some delightful fluff from Offenbach when I entered. It definitely provided one of the top two musical delights of the show, as well as some of the best sound I encountered.
The genuinely big news in this room was the official launch of the Nagra Classic high-power, solid-state stereo amplifier. A successor to the MSA, it was first seen as an unadorned aluminum cube at CES 2015, where its absolute control impressed the hell out of me. The unit operates in pure class-A "over a very large power band"15W, I am toldbefore switching to class-AB. There is only a single pair of MOSFET transistors per channel. Nagra claims stability "irrespective of the loads placed upon it." It can be used in a bridged configuration, as shown here, to deliver 200Wpc; otherwise, it supplies 100Wpc into 8 ohms.
Nagra's HDAMP will debut at RMAF, with an HD preamplifier expected by the end of the year.
Alexander Vitus Mogensen of Alluxity (as in luxury) was showing two new products: the Media One media server (approx. $11,000), whose built-in DAC can process up to PCM 384 and DSD256; and the class-AB Integrated One, which outputs 200Wpc into 8 ohms. Everything in the integrated is discrete and fully balanced, and can be controlled through the Media One.
You can't tell from the rather placid photo, but the Vitus Audio room was rockin' away both at the end of the show on Saturday and again at show's end on Sunday. Given that their door was wide open, people in surrounding rooms must have been pulling their hair out, but a helluva lot of attendees were having a ball.
Since folks were partying, and it was impossible to talk in the room, I was handed a piece of literature in the hallway by someone who really wasn't equipped to go into detail. It's really hard to figure out exactly what was playing besides the SS-025 stereo power amplifier ($21,000). What I can tell you, however, is that the Gauder Akustik RC7 Mk.II loudspeakers were sounding much better than in the company's own room, and exhibited great control on the loud, demanding dance music that served to draw my four days at High End 2015 to a close.
So there I am waiting for the shuttle bus to return me to the Park Inn Redizen (Radisson), when David Solomon of Tidal comes into view. I figure the only way that David managed to look as fresh as and younger than springtime after four days hawking Tidal is that everyone except those who can't get over the fact that Jay Z has bought the company is realizing how much CD-quality music they can access for a monthly fee equal to the cost of one or two CDs.
I am told that the bass suck out in the room was so bad that Paul was at his wit's end until he borrowed a sub from REL. That's how serious a problem room acoustics were. That he succeeded in scoring your best of show earns him a gold medal, as far as I'm concerned.
Electronics in the Vitus room were the SIA-025 (integrated amp), SS-025 (new stereo power amp) and the SCD-025 (CDP). The Gauder speakers were bi-amped by the integrated and the power amp.
Thanks to Jason and Stereophile for the excellent coverage of the Munich High End Show -- perhaps the greatest hi-fi show on earth. You captured the fun, excitement, and scale of this truly awesome event.
And thanks for spending time with JitterBug and Beetle. We're very excited about these two new little critters. As Jason mentioned, JitterBug is a USB filter that works on both the data and power lines of USB ports -- on a computer, streamer, home stereo, or even in a car-audio system. It has a male USB plug at one end and a female USB port at the other, so it can be used in between USB DACs (such as our DragonFly) or USB cables. And, as Jason mentioned, a second JitterBug can be used in parallel to the first. Whether the second port is vacant, or is feeding a printer or charging a phone, JitterBug offers an often surprising reduction of noise during audio playback.
As you can see in the picture, Beetle is a very small desktop DAC. It has three inputs -- Toslink, asynchronous USB, and asynchronous Bluetooth -- each optimized for audio performance and carefully selected for usability and convenience. Some will find Beetle to be the perfect complement for a TV's Toslink audio output, while others will want to use it to upgrade the sound of their favorite media players or gaming consoles. Still others will take advantage of Beetle's asynchronous USB input to enjoy improved sound from any laptop or computer. Finally, Beetle's asynchronous Bluetooth technology allows for high-performance wireless streaming from mobile devices.
Thanks again.
Stephen Mejias, AudioQuest
Oh my, when I read the article about PS showing up at Munich with their brand new BHK amplifier and then setting up Magneplanar 20.7 speakers, and actually expected to hear deep robust bass, I was amazed. I owned the 3.7 Magnepneplanars several years ago, and they never delivered deep rich bass, they never delivered any slam or punch, and the only thing they did do right was female voices, classical guitar, and acoustic guitar. I'm sure the 20.7 is worlds better than the 3.7, but my gosh, why show up at Munich with a speaker that clearly is anemic in the low frequency realm, not to mention the lack of power and punch. I got so tired of mine I sold them and the man I sold them to, sold them in 3 months for the same exact reason. Huge speakers that throw out a HUGE presentation with little dynamic ability. Please don't hate me here, but without the REL sub, the presentation was doomed. Even with the REL, if anything like my experience, there was a big gap where the Magneplanars left off and the REL began. I fully realize some people find Wilson speakers a bit analytical, but for me, someone that would be lucky to afford a nice used Wilson, I would have showed up at this show with something in the Wilson or possibly Aerial line, or how about Genesis, Vandersteen, Focal-JMlab, YG Acoustics, Sonus Faber, B&W, Magico, Revel, something that can, for lack of a better expression "Cut The Mustard."


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Tag Archives: water
Hidden Fountain
Indoor Elements (parts)
On my main dalydose.com blog I posted an image collage called Indoor Elements". These are the three individual pictures.
Lumia 1020 in Venice
I am trialing the Nokia Lumia 1020, so pictures for the next few weeks will be coming from this powerhouse device. These images are from my first photo shoot in the Venice (California) canals.
More info at http://www.dalydose.com, including a blog post about my 1st impression of the device and another blog post about my 1st video test with it. Follow along over there for tons of content about and from the Lumia 1020, in the coming weeks!
Catalina Panoramic View
Canal Sunset in Venice, CA
Flowers Around Fountains
Ave. Of The Stars


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Finally Sitting Down with Random Thoughts
As titled. -Life has not slowed down since, oh, February. I want a break, and Christmas – at least – is usually it. Even with all the fun and shenanigans, I enjoy the hustle and bustle and feel refreshed and rested. This year I have literally watched two Christmas movies in TWO sittings a piece… Continue reading Finally Sitting Down with Random Thoughts


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Our whole site has moved. We are still at drunkinamidnightchoir.com, with all the same kinds of great work from a lot of your favorite Choir members, as well as a whole lot of new ones. These archives are 3 years old, and packed with all kinds of great stuff. Feel free to look around and enjoy. If you follow us here, please consider following us there. Thank you for being a loyal Drunk. We hope you like our new digs.
Category Archives: Uncategorized
Uneven Remainder: A Soundtrack For The Mortal Coil
Uneven Remainder
When We Christmas-ed
There used to be a small, tranquil town, two mountain ranges over. It was supported by a steady stream of goods from local traders and the secondary economies that one will find in rural mountain burgs: a drug store, a diner that served delicious cakes, a cloth shop, and so forth. After November, the snow blanketed this little community, and because motor traffic was light, the town would remain as white as linen until the spring thaw several months later. It was a festive little village and the holidays were a time of great joy and celebration for its denizens. What I'm getting at here is that Christmas was a big deal in our idyllic township.
As the eldest child, at the start of every school year, I received a new pair of boots, and the older ones were passed down to my first younger sister, who handed hers down to our brother, and on they went down the line. The same descending transaction occurred with coats and nearly every other item that we owned. But Christmas was a different matter. Mother made a small economy out of selling goose fat to the larders, and that money went into a tin that once held Royal Dansk Cookies all the way from Denmark. Continue reading
We Will Rise Again: A Soundtrack To Showing Up
When We Rise Again
"In the Civil Rights Movement, we ran from the police, in the peace movement, we ran from the police. That night, the police ran from us, the lowliest of the low. And it was fantastic," John O'Brien, Stonewall Uprising.
A friend wrote to tell me they had a dream in which both of our families were attending an outdoor event and we had a chance to enjoy each other's company.
This has been a hard week for many people, and if you're like me you're finding it difficult to enjoy anything right now. But my friend's dream is helping me shake this feeling.
There is still goodness in the world. Now more than ever, we need to remind ourselves and our friends of this. Not to normalize, too much has been normalized, but to fuel us.
Struggle, until you're near its end, so often feels like defeat. We need to be reminded constantly of the good things left worth fighting for.
Happy Halloween
Today is about nightmares. We live in a nightmare.
I have long suffered from sleep paralysis. Upon settling into sleep I feel the presence of someone approaching, standing over me. When I try to move I can't. Why I try to scream I can't. Sometimes I wake myself up attempting to scream. Sometimes I spend what seems like hours trapped in this state, only to wake the next morning with a sore throat, exhausted.
For a long period of time I struggled with a substance abuse problem, in part because I wanted control over my consciousness, my sleep.
I feel like I've been trying to scream my whole life. Something isn't right. Power is crushing us from all directions.
What is power?
Do you believe in the power of nightmares?
Do you accept the necessity of a state apparatus?
What you ever seen one person killing another? This is power. This is an attempt at statehood.
A state is an organized body of coercion, convincing its subordinates that they need it. To the state you trade your freewill for protection. To the state you grant a monopoly of force. You pay the state to kill children. You love the state.
You are a vessel for state thought. You are so full up with it that you can't imagine another way of being. You only dream state dreams. You only speak state language. You only love state love. You only think state thought.
The state is standing over you. Try to scream.
Try to stop paying the state what it demands.
There are people with guns walking around outside, looking for trouble, killing people. The state has sent them.
There are people killing people everywhere for the state. This is freedom. Freedom to work. Freedom to buy. Freedom to drink yourself unconscious.
You cannot transcend the state through spirit. There is no spirit outside of state sanctioned spirit.
Accept this world to find peace in the next: This is state thought.
You cannot break your deal with the state. You are owned.
The state owns you. The state owns your dream.
Welcome to my nightmare.
Someone dreamt their eyes were pooling with blood. I had a dream I found a bottle of cologne with one of my friend's name on the label, under which was printed Architect and Philosopher. A friend of mine is making a maps to the landscapes in her dreams. Last night I dreamt about a party with too many staircases. This was after the destruction of Chicago, a new canyon dredged to fill with ruins.
As I write this there is a square glass filled with writing implements on my desk, situated eight inches diagonally from my right hand. This glass was a Christmas gift given by a boss when I worked in an office four floors above where I now sit. This glass was a way of saying I know I'm supposed to buy you a gift, but fuck you. Sometimes waking from a dream I feel the world is telling me the same thing.
Inside the glass there's twenty or so pens and pencils and markers that came from other dreams: a Micron 08 I once sketched my son's face with, a Staples Hype highlighter that I colored in the squares representing my vacation weeks with, a BP Zebra F-301 mechanical pencil that I used to complete problem sets for Technical Mathematics 215, a black ballpoint pen with my deceased grandfather's name emblazoned on it that I rescued from his 1990 Lincoln Town Car after the transmission went and I almost drove it into my house then decided wasn't worth the cost of repair.
These are all dreams. None of them exist, but I can vividly recall them. Memories are the superstition we build our lives on. We all know America was never great. If you don't then why the fuck are you reading this? None of your memories are more valid than that great lie.
There's a lot of superstition surrounding dreams as well: you can't die in a dream, there's a right way to interpret them, that we can understand.
This isn't an attempt to trick you. Surety is.
We've all had dreams we didn't want to wake from. Many of us have had dreams we return to. A smaller group of us have learned to navigate those dreams, have become conscious of the dreaming within the dream. Spiritual teachers tell us this is a way of training for becoming conscious of the dreaming within this dream. There are many volumes dedicated accounts of those who've done this, been able to accomplish fantastic feats because they've fully integrated this awakening. Last night my daughter asked me what I would do if I could do anything. Anything, I replied.
The grief of death is the refusal to accept the beauty of the dead cat's smile. The grief of death is the lie of memory, and your attachment to it.
How much of who you are is a lie? How much of who you are today is the remembrance of yourself congealing in the bathroom mirror? How hard is it to forget all the times you've been hurt? When was the last time you forgot who you were?
Be someone else tomorrow. Be conscious of the remembering. Interdict possibility before the approach of memory. Write yourself a note so you don't have to remember this.
Three Poems – Devanshi Khetarpal
one day the fire will light open the Ganges & the breasts of rain will wash our names as ashes touching the back of the sun Continue reading
I Would Stay
It's gone on and on
down south
where the jet planes to Hedonism
are digital
a new version of myself
comes after you
turning like falcon and lynx
after my friends die
because all the maps were wrong
which caused a dire gape
another stupid way to say
the talon's scales
valley within
the shame of feeling feathers
against the grain of cockroach wing
when we are high and small
enough to the eye
to be high enough
to feel the dying
on the other end of eyeless flight
We could be making bombs right now
but we lock ourselves in crying away
because a river of police
like picnic soldier
while we try to love a body
so much
as you can love a cage
and not the empty space between bars
a life of choking
on the promise of love
and that's how it starts
I found pain
but there's a great big choir
in a great big room
singing like a ship
I used to think
the lyrics were
If I could be one thousand miles away
but still be me
I would stay
Now clap your hands


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11 Nov2007
It's not often that I come across a salad made out of flowers from a tree (katuday), water spinach from a swamp (kangkong), male winter squash flowers (bulaklak ng kalabasa) and tomatoes (kamatis). In fact, the first time I tasted this salad was just a few months ago on a trip to the Ilocos region. It was served to us at Sitio Remedios and it was one of the few good things about our stay at that resort. Once back in Manila, I vowed to try and replicate this wonderful salad and I daresay I not only replicated it, I liked our home version better. I know this recipe will strike many of you as being bizarre or possibly odd-tasting, but let me tell you, it is one of the best pinoy dishes I have tasted this year. One of the best! Thanks to the cook of Sitio Remedios for the inspiration, and here is Marketman's recipe and critical tips for a super KKKK salad…
Purchase the finest (freshest) ingredients (katuday, kangkong, kalabasa flowers and kamatis). Next, remove the stamen(?) in the middle of the katuray flowers and shred each flower into say 3-4 pieces. Wash this carefully and set aside. Next cut small pieces of kangkong (I used chinese kangkong with the smller leaves), using only the tips for aesthetic reasons, wash well and set aside. Remove the stamens from the kalabasa flowers and shred into 3-4 pieces per flower. Leave about half of the squash flowers whole but with stamens also removed. Slice a few small tomatoes into medium sized pieces. Next boil water in a medium sized that is about half full. Prepare an ice bath in a large bowl (half ice cubes and half water). Do not skip ice bath step! If you don't do it the dish will suffer. Trust me on this. And few Ilocanos probably bother with the ice bath. But its worth it. Blanch the katuray flowers for about 1-2 minutes in the boiling water. Remove and immediately plunge into the ice bath. Remove the katuray and do the same for the squash flowers. Then the kangkong. Drain these well and if you are a bit anal, dry on some paper towels.
Next in your serving dish, toss all of the ingredients including the sliced tomatoes. The balance of greens and flowers and fruit is up to you; but I used about 4 parts kangkong, 2 parts squash flowers, 1 part katuray and 2 parts tomatoes. A lot of this will depend on your personal likes and dislikes regarding the vegetables in the salad, but I also tried to balance the ingredients so that it looked good as well. Put this in the fridge until chilled, or at least an hour before serving. Next, make your salad dressing. Traditionally, I believe the Ilocanos use their fish bagoong and some native vinegar. I altered this a bit as I find the after taste of the fish bagoong a bit strong. I simply mixed Ilocano vinegar with some good patis and the juice of one kalamansi and salt and pepper, then tossed the salad with the dressing just before serving.
This salad was unusually good. The textures were unexpected and very interesting. The coldness of the dish will be a surprise for first timers. The flavors range from sweet to ever so slightly bitter, texture from crunchy (kangkong stems) to mushy. The salad was fresh, light, bracing, and incredibly delicious. I am amazed that this salad doesn't show up in more restaurant menus. It was a total revelation. I LOVED IT. And a word for folks who make this for the first time. Follow the tips in this post. Use an ice bath, toss in proportions that suit you, dress the salad at the last minute and serve it as a complement to fried or grilled dishes dishes such as fish, bagnet, etc. This is definitely among our favorite pinoy salads now, along with:
Tomato & Red Egg Salad
Grilled Eggplant Salad
Pako Salad / Fiddlehead Ferns
Mustasa Salad with Bagoong at Kalamansi
Green Mango Salad/Relish
Paho Salad with Tomatoes and Onions
Kinilaw na Guso at Lato / Seaweed Salad
Ampalaya Salad
Cucumber Salad with Visayan Vinaigrette
looks absolutely good and must taste good as well, healthy too. are katuray and squash flowers readily available in wet markets at all times, or are they seasonal?
Nov 11, 2007 | 8:18 am
Thanks MM for sharing your yummyy KKKK salad.
Nov 11, 2007 | 8:31 am
this is a very nutritious salad i must say.
i used to put them all together in a foil wrap,kamatis including, close the wrap tightly and grill the whole wrap for about 10 mins. when ready to serve, open the wrap and pour in the bagoong/vinegar/kalamansi dressing. if i have some young okra i throw them in the wrap as well. so yummy with grilled tilapia or bangus. it's just sad that we cannot buy fresh katuday here in canada. thank you for the post, mm.
Nov 11, 2007 | 10:17 am
What a gorgeous looking salad! And your fotos made me want to lick the computer screen.
That settles it. I'm booking a flight to Manila. It's the only way I can taste this beauty! And I guess I will have to continue on to Ilocosland. That's Ok cuz my favorite
Ilocana is in Camiling. There is something special about Ilocanas…..they are very soft.
Nov 11, 2007 | 10:39 am
Thanks for this, MM. I sometimes see katuray and squash flowers in the market and always wondered how to use them. Your salad is a feast for the eye as well.
Nov 11, 2007 | 10:47 am
MM, just a thought…
If you add kilawin, 5K na!
Nov 11, 2007 | 10:50 am
I can find all these ingredients in Brunei! will definitly try it today!!! thanks for the recipe
Nov 11, 2007 | 10:55 am
I have seen the katuray flowers in markets here in Brunei but would not know how to deal with it. Will try to make your salad recipe soon. Perhaps, will try it with belacan (the local fish paste) and sliced red chillis.
Nov 11, 2007 | 11:11 am
My mother-in-law also puts in pan toasted flaked tinapa.
Nov 11, 2007 | 11:21 am
I love pinoy salads. Sure, a good caesar or waldorf salad is yummy, but nothing hits the spot like a good mix of local veggies.
This is the kind of post that reminds me that with just a little effort, we can all eat healthy and delicious food, and for so much less money. Great photo, btw.
Nov 11, 2007 | 12:34 pm
MM, Your photo is so real…and I can literally taste the salad with your write-up. And to think I have not even tasted Katuray!!!
MM, you think I can find katuray in Carbon? If only I had a Victor like you!!!
Nov 11, 2007 | 2:03 pm
thanks for the post on katuray and this salad, i don't have an idea what katuray is before i got to read your post. and since i am trying to eat healthy nowadays, i hope to do the recipe. i think that is would be healthy on my pockets too! as compared to the lettuce i buy at the grocery. i just hope to find katuray but if i can't, what substitute can i use? would ampalaya work kaya? btw, the dressing is so simple, i can do this with my very limited cooking skills hehehe…
Nov 11, 2007 | 2:10 pm
I love Pinoy salads and y our photo does look so real…I love squash and kangkong but first time I've heard of katuray. It definitely looks Yummy and will try this dish for a healthy treat.
Nov 11, 2007 | 2:24 pm
Thanks for this post, MM. I always learn something from your posts. I have never encountered katuray or perhaps, I did already but I didn't know it was katuray. Interesting…
Nov 11, 2007 | 5:59 pm
hello! sorry but i just wanted to know why you removed the stamens from the flowers?
Nov 11, 2007 | 7:37 pm
You really have a way with flowers :)
Nov 11, 2007 | 8:25 pm
There are pink katuray flowers too. I can't say they taste differently, just that color looks good in salads.
Nov 11, 2007 | 9:19 pm
Back home in Ilocos, my aunt would also add those short deep green colored sitaw (we call it "tudo" because they are straight and firm) which is different from the sitaw one normally gets in the Tagalog region. Now you are making me very hungry.
Nov 12, 2007 | 2:04 am
This salad looks so yummy! Am reading your post at 7 in the morning and i'd like to have the delicious looking salad for breakfast. wish i weren't in the office so i could run off to the wet market to buy the ingredients. gotta have this salad, soon. thanks for the beautiful photos, too, MM.
Nov 12, 2007 | 7:58 am
MM,You're right about the bitter taste when you include the stamens in your cooking.I have done this as I didn't know that you had to take the stamens off.
Your salad looks gorgeous! I also like sauteing all kinds of edible flowers with just garlic,salt and pepper.Grabeng sarap!
Nov 12, 2007 | 8:51 am
That's a really Good looking salad.. looks so appetizingly fresh.. ;)
Nov 12, 2007 | 1:07 pm
i think this recipe is an ilocano dish, ive tasted it and its really sweet salad.
Nov 12, 2007 | 4:58 pm
Hej MM,
You did it again! Made us learn something new. Thank you for your infinite curiosity!
I think I've seen these katuray flowers in some markets out in the provinces ages ago, but never took the time to ask what they were for.
Your foto is so appetizingly good that I could almost taste the salad. I know why you insist on the ice bath – the vibrant colours of the veggies and flowers are kept intact as well as the "crunchiness" or is there another reason for doing this?
Nov 12, 2007 | 6:45 pm
where can i buy katuray flowers here in manila? thanks
ps… i'd love to pair this salad with danggit.. yum!
Nov 12, 2007 | 7:12 pm
another KKKK version could be Kamote tops and Kadyos with Kalamansi and Kamias :)
Nov 12, 2007 | 8:23 pm
I just came from a Malaysian restaurant last weekend, and the owner knowing its my first time, serve me a special home made sauce which she did not say what it was. My texas husband asked me to taste it first to see what was on it. Oh, hahaha, it was "sauteed bagoong" with lots of fresh tomatoes added and mixed with what I think if rice vinegar and little sugar. I told myself this can will go good with some sorts of Pinoy greens salad.. and this morning, here's your site with confirmation of what I have in my taste palette. I am not sure if they have katuray blossoms here in the Oriental store and the squash flowers are only sold rarely. Gosh, I would have to come up with something else. Nakakainggit naman.
Nov 12, 2007 | 10:51 pm
This is deffinitely a must try. Now where to buy katuray flowers is a challenge. We where just talking about the katuray tree the other day. They say its bad luck to see one from a window in your house. That's why its normally planted where there are now homes around. Trivia…
Nov 13, 2007 | 12:18 pm
thanks, mr. marketman =)
Nov 14, 2007 | 7:44 am
I remember my dad preparing this dish before. He used camote leaves instead of kangkong and kalamansi instead of vinegar. We also added thin slivers of shallots or onions, even spring onions(whatever is available)to this.
Nov 16, 2007 | 8:01 pm
can u please name some health benefits from this wonderful and very healthy foods??? anybody, pls…
Dec 5, 2008 | 2:07 am


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|Photo Credit: Starz - https://www.starz.com/series/power/featured
Okay we've got to cut to Tariq some slack! Wait wait wait, let me explain! For those of you who watch Power on Staz religiously like I do, it has been so frustrating during the past season and the past few weeks of this season to watch Tariq spiral into being an angry little brat. I mean even I have posted about how much this kid sucks. But I think that we have to remember one thing, Tariq's attitude is a product of Ghost's decisions.
|Photo Credit: Starz - https://www.starz.com/series/power/featured
One: We have to respect the fact that Tariq is a child and that he is still angry about his father abandoning his mother. Even though you only have one life to live and you should do the things that make you happy, your choices ALWAYS have consequences. OF COURSE his actions were going to come with some repercussions regarding his children.
|Photo Credit: Starz - https://www.starz.com/series/power/featured
Two: This is also a result of trying to live in two different worlds. Ghost is a drug dealer from the streets but he did not want to raise his family in that lifestyle so he has one foot in one world and the other foot in another world. With that being said, Tariq was not raised with that streetwise mentality of "family before everything". He's understandably acting out in the only way that he knows how and that's by being an angry little brat. Call me a softy, but I'm still waiting on him to have his shining moment!
Have you been watching Power the season? Tell me your thoughts about how frustrating it is to watch Tariq this season.
Until Next Time...


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Vacancies in the top jobs in the national security and criminal divisions at the Justice Department are raising concerns among former officials and close observers of the agency.
Lisa Monaco, former assistant attorney general for national security, was named in January to become President Obama's counterterrorism adviser, and there is no permanent replacement. The head of the criminal division, former assistant attorney general Lanny A. Breuer, left for private practice this month, and his job has no permanent replacement either.
In addition to those critical posts, the Office of Legislative Affairs and Office of Legal Policy have acting heads, and no permanent replacements have been named. Other nominees are in acting positions awaiting Senate confirmation, including Stuart F. Delery to head the civil division and Tony West as associate attorney general, the third-ranking position in the department.
"There is no question that the vacancies always have an effect," said Robert Raben, an assistant attorney general in the Clinton administration. "Senior leadership matters in policymaking, responsiveness to Congress and making cases."
Several current and former Justice officials echoed Raben's comments privately, but they declined to allow their names to be used because they either were not authorized to speak publicly or did not want to anger former colleagues.
Along with the high-level vacancies, Obama has nominated Assistant Attorney General Thomas E. Perez, who heads the department's civil rights division, to be the secretary of labor. If Perez is confirmed, another critical vacancy would open in a division that enforces federal statutes prohibiting discrimination.
Obama also has nominated Karol V. Mason to head the Office of Justice Programs, but she, too, is awaiting Senate confirmation. The office provides training and grants to federal, state, local and tribal justice systems. The Office of Public Affairs does not have a permanent director. Former OPA director Tracy Schmaler left last week.
Filling vacancies as a president starts a second term often takes time. But Max Stier, president and chief executive of the nonprofit Partnership for Public Service, described the administration's transition as "excruciatingly slow."
"It's critical to have these positions filled," Stier said. "It's very difficult even when there are capable acting or career people in those jobs because the organization just doesn't operate in the same way. The decisions that have to be made by the senior leadership are enormously challenging and fraught with risk, and it's very hard for people not confirmed in those top jobs to make the tough calls and to choose solutions that might involve difficult trade-offs."
Several former officials pointed out that one of Obama's top priorities, an ambitious gun control agenda, depends on the leadership of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. But the Senate has not yet scheduled a confirmation hearing for the president's nominee for ATF director, B. Todd Jones.
Justice spokeswoman Nanda Chitre said that officials are eager to fill the vacant positions and that department leaders are continuing to bring significant national security and criminal cases.
"The department remains fully committed to fulfilling our most critical missions," Chitre said. "Particularly in this time of limited budgets, as public servants at every level of the department work hard to serve as sound stewards of taxpayer resources, it's essential to move forward with a timely confirmation process to fill the remaining vacancies in leadership positions and strengthen our ability to meet future challenges."
Glenn A. Fine, a former department inspector general, said that Justice attorneys in acting positions usually do a good job.
"But it's always better to have a confirmed nominee in those positions for stability, longevity and more gravitas within the department and on the Hill," said Fine, who is practicing law at Dechert LLP.
Administration officials said several candidates are being interviewed for the vacancies. Ann Milgram, a former New Jersey attorney general who is a senior fellow at New York University Law School, is a leading candidate to head the criminal division, according to two people with knowledge of the process.
Filling high-profile vacancies with qualified nominees who aren't discouraged by the sometimes-arduous confirmation process is difficult, current and former officials said.
"The search for talented people who are willing to go through the modern confirmation process and who are experienced and are diverse is no joke," Raben said. "It's hard, it's really hard."


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Learn what Physically Based Rendering (PBR) is and how PBR and HDR lighting affects objects in Toolbag. Christian Bradley walks you through the differences between how these advanced lighting and texture process work and the differences between how Toolbag calculates lighting as compared to a regular 3D modeling program.
- [Instructor] Toolbag uses a system called PBR to light the model and deal with the materials that are applied to the model. Now you might be wondering what PBR is. Well, to start with, PBR is an acronym for Physically Based Rendering, which is a pretty neat development for game and 3D artists. No longer does the 3D artist need to spend hours creating texture maps in photoshop; now programs like Quixel or Substance can generate maps that are created using realistic shading and lighting models along with measured surface values, to accurately represent real world materials.
Now to point out the differences between PBR and our older systems of applying maps, I've opened up this model of my cannon. Over here in this big window we can see the background image that is being used to light the cannon. That background image isn't showing right now, but I can turn it on by going under backdrop and turning on sky. Now it's hard to see the model with the background turned on, but we'll use it as a example.
If I move that sky background around, you can see that it changes the lighting on the model. It's hard to see, again, with the background on, so I'm going to turn it off and then move it. Now it still will move around, and you can see that lighting change. One way to think of this system is as a dome sitting over the model where the image of the background is on the dome with LED lights at each pixel, shining down on your model. So if I rotate the dome, well the lighting on the model rotates around it.
You can also think of this as the real world equivalent, where a rainy day or a sunny day are going to effect the same object differently. Marmoset can recreate these surfaces, so that the artist can see what their model, with maps applied, will look like in specific game engines. The map types you might be familiar with change a bit as well. Where older texture pipelines call for diffuse and specular maps, you'll find that most PBR pipelines use albedo, and gloss maps.
Metalness, ambient occlusion, roughness, and microsurface maps are just a few of the map types that you can expect to deal with when dealing in a PBR based system. The names of the maps change depending on the game engine you're using, so while these are the names that Toolbag uses, your game engine might use slightly different names. The basic things you need to know about PBR are that there are two main workflows, one for metal, and one for non metal surfaces.
Generally, gloss, roughness or microsurface settings control reflectivity, and that multiple maps including normal, albedo, gloss, ambient occlusion and detail maps are used to achieve realistic surface properties that can be displayed in many current game engines. Toolbag is simply a rendering tool. The maps necessary to achieve the surfaces displayed need to be generated in programs such as Quixel or Substance Painter.
We'll look at how Toolbag deals with various maps and settings in the next few videos.
- Adding and organizing models
- Adding material to the model
- Saving a scene
- Physically based rendering (PBR)
- Creating a new scene and adding light
- Importing and adding materials to objects with transparency
- Working with preset materials
- Using cameras and post effects
- Creating a well-lit scene
- Rendering images


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