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The Wii U - Nintendo's successor to its ground-breaking and best-selling Wii console - is available across the UK and Europe from today (November 30).
In the months up to release there been some confusion over what exactly the Wii U is, so hopefully this launch guide should help explain the key elements of the system.
In short, it's a brand new console that's more powerful than the original Wii, and offers a new way to play games with a touch-screen enabled, tablet-like controller.
> Wii U: Digital Spy answers your questions about the new home console
What's new about the Wii U: Touch-screen controller and HD visuals
The Wii's most central new addition is the GamePad. Similar to a tablet, it has a screen that allows you to enter touch commands that interact with the action on a television.
The controller itself also includes a camera, motion sensors and traditional buttons, paving the way for a wider range of innovative in-game applications as well as traditional games.
Simple uses of the GamePad's screen include supplementary data, such as a map or a way of changing weapons or items faster. Other games provide another viewpoint, where looking at the controller and panning it around a room will 'extend' the game world beyond the TV screen.
It also allows for interesting asynchronous multiplayer scenarios. An example is that the player using the GamePad is playing a character that no one else can see, while other players - holding traditional Wii controllers - have to work together to hunt them down on the TV.
Finally, the Wii U hardware has been vastly improved over the Wii, supporting high-definition visuals comparable to the Xbox 360 and PS3.
New online and social features: Downloadable games, Miiverse and video chat
Nintendo has embraced a number of new online ideas with the Wii U.
For one, the Friend Code system - a rather laborious way of adding and playing with friends online - is replaced with a simple and easier username similar to Xbox Live, PSN and other online services.
As well as the eShop - which sees smaller, download-only titles similar to WiiWare on the original Wii - you are able to download Wii U retail titles such as New Super Mario Bros U and Nintendo Land direct to your system at launch.
While these usually come at a slightly higher cost than in stores, and will likely quickly eat up your hard drive space (external hard drives are thankfully readily supported), it's a convenient way to purchase games for the new system.
Miiverse, meanwhile, is a social space similar to Twitter and forums, allowing users to write messages and draw pictures about various games and topics. Posts can be marked as spoilers if necessary, and any other Wii U user can comment on any user's posts.
Pressing the home button while playing a game will automatically take a screenshot, which you can attach to Miiverse posts if you're asking for help or simply want to show something off to the world.
Nintendo has worked some kind of magic with its Miiverse policing system, as the entire network seems devoid of any profanity, obscenities or lewd drawings. Miiverse also contains the friends list for your Nintendo Network ID, and is where you can send and accept friend requests.
There is also a Wii U Chat, which uses a camera in the front of the GamePad to have video calls with other users. It's a cool idea, but the prevalence of smartphones and Skype means it's not a particularly noteworthy feature.
What games are available from day one?
Nintendo has branded the Wii U launch lineup as 'the strongest in the company's history', and we're hard pressed to disagree, with a wide range of exclusive and well-known properties.
New Super Mario Bros U and Nintendo Land are the two Nintendo-developed titles for the system. Mario is a solid but safe choice, offering classic Mario action but doing little to push the GamePad, while Nintendo Land is an excellent showcase of what the system can do.
> Read our review of Nintendo Land
> Read our review of New Super Mario Bros U
> Read our review of Zombi U
> Read our review of Scribblenauts Unlimited (US only)
Assassin's Creed 3, Black Ops 2,
Many of these titles have exclusive new modes and control schemes using the GamePad, and also support the new Pro Controller - a dedicated control pad shaped similar to those seen on Xbox 360.
Finally, Zombi U, Tank! Tank! Tank! and Rabbids Land are exclusive to the system, and all use the GamePad in new and interesting ways.
Gallery: View the entire Wii U launch lineup for the UK:
Can I use my Wii games and controllers on the new system? What about my old downloads?
Wii U fully supports all Wii games and add-ons, including the Balance Board, Nunchuks and Classic Controller. There are, however, a few concessions.
The console must first be given a lengthy system update to add Wii functionality, so provided you download the 1GB patch and install it, then you'll be ready to go. This is also needed to download online features such as the eShop and Miiverse.
Once that is done, you are able to carry all saves and downloaded titles (including Virtual Console and WiiWare games) across through a lengthy transfer process involving a dedicated space on the original Wii and a SD card which permanently moves content from one system to another - so think twice about trading your Wii in before you get a Wii U!
Finally, launching Wii content puts the Wii U in a 'Wii mode' which essentially disables all new Wii U features (Miiverse, GamePad).
What bundles are available?
Another potentially confusing step is that the Wii U comes in three bundles. The basic pack includes a white Wii U console with 8GB of memory, and retails for around £250.
Meanwhile the Premium bundle comes in black with 32GB of memory, a copy of Nintendo Land, charging cradles and a Nintendo Network Premium membership (this is around £300).
Finally, the Zombi U bundle is the same as the Premium pack, but replaces Nintendo Land with Ubisoft's survival horror title Zombi U.
There's also the recently revealed Wii Mini, which is a different thing entirely, so ignore that if you're after a Wii U bundle.
The future for Wii U: The Games
Nintendo has already outlined a number of the system's launch window titles, releasing from next week through to March 2013.
Exclusives include Pikmin 3, Wii Fit U, LEGO City: Undercover, GAME & Wario, Rayman Legends and Scribblenauts Unlimited.
Beyond that, expect Bayonetta 2, odd-ball adventure The Wonderful 101 and Monster Hunter 3 (which is cross-compatible with the 3DS version).
Elsewhere, expect a number of third-party ports as they release on Xbox 360, PS3 and PC, including Aliens: Colonial Marines.
And from there? We'll know more in the coming months, but Nintendo staples such as new Mario, Legend of Zelda, Metroid, Donkey Kong and Animal Crossing games are a dead cert.
[Above: Pikmin 3, set for release in early 2013]
The future for Wii U: The Features
Like other consoles, the Wii U is expected to offer new features and services in future years, similar to Xbox 360 and PS3's firmware refreshes in recent years.
Next year the Wii U will interact with steaming and DVR services through the TVii mode, allowing users to browse and select a wide range of content from different sources from the GamePad. With BBC iPlayer and Netflix partnering with Nintendo for the Wii, hopefully both these services will also be available when it comes to the UK.
NFC (Near Field Communication) support is possible with the GamePad but is unavailable at launch. This wireless, touch-based communication seen in Skylanders and mobile phones could allow toys to be used on Wii U for all-new ways to play.
Multiple GamePads are also expected to be supported by Wii U in the next few years, paving the way for even more unique gameplay possibilities.
Have you picked up a Wii U today? Let us know what you think of the device in the comments below!


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The four men vying to replace Mark Beckner as Boulder's next chief of police presented their visions Wednesday for establishing trust between the city and its law enforcement, addressing homeless and transient populations, policing University of Colorado partygoers and more.
Beckner retired in April, and Deputy Chief Greg Testa took over for him on an interim basis. Testa is now joined by Cmdrs. Curtis Johnson, Kurt Weiler and Carey Weinheimer on the list of potential replacements, which City Manager Jane Brautigum said was deliberately limited to internal candidates.
Prior to taking questions from the roughly 50-person audience at the Boulder Public Library, the finalists each gave 10-minute presentations on what they consider the most important issue the department now faces in "community policing."
"I think it's really how we recruit officers, how we hire them and how we evaluate their performance," said Weiler, the first to speak.
Weiler, who's been a Boulder policeman for 30 of his 34 years in the field, described a solid personnel base as the foundation of vigilant, trustworthy law enforcement. If he's hired as chief, he'd look to expand the department's recruitment process to include social media, which he said is "where our candidates of the future are going to be."
Weinheimer, a 28-year law enforcement veteran and a CU graduate, said two of the biggest problems facing Boulder police are the city's homeless and transient residents, and how to work with that population's high tendency toward mental illness.
"I think we need to redefine the roles of both the police and the community in addressing these large society problems," he said.
In general, he added, "The major problems we face are bigger than just police issues. ... If I'm the chief, I'll be looking for your help."
Johnson said that, if chosen for the role, he'd prioritize rebuilding the faith in police that some in Boulder may have lost after the much-publicized debacle in which two officers conspired January 2013 to kill a beloved neighborhood elk.
"I know I have the ability to help restore your trust in our organization," said Johnson, who's been with Boulder police for the last 22 years.
He said he'd also concentrate on communicating more efficiently with other city agencies.
"Many of them have no idea what to do when they see something that needs police intervention," Johnson said. "We need to educate them and help them take some ownership in creating an atmosphere of public safety for the whole community."
Testa, who's been acting as chief for the last few months of his 26-year tenure with Boulder police, described his vision of the city as having safer public spaces, where theft, assault and drug use are less pervasive.
On the topic of homelessness in Boulder, Testa said he'd aim to treat that population with humanity and dignity, while being vigilant about the threat it can pose to public safety.
He added that he'd "reach out to other law enforcement agencies who've done well" on that front, and would be open to exploring new methods.
After the presentations, the four candidates were asked their sense of the perception that Boulder police clamp down unnecessarily on CU students, particularly as it pertains to underage drinking.
"We want to prevent tragedies," Weinheimer said, in a stance more or less echoed by the other three. "We want to prevent riotous behavior. So we need to strike a balance between keeping the city safe and letting the students be the adults that they'll become."
As to whether Boulder police officers should be required to live within city limits, the panel delivered a resounding "no."
"The reality is that there's many reasons why folks can't," Testa said.
"It doesn't help that Boulder isn't an affordable housing mecca," Johnson added.
The candidates will be interviewed today by city leadership, Boulder Police Officers Association and Boulder Municipal Employees Association representatives, as well as police personnel from outside organizations.
City of Boulder spokeswoman Sarah Huntley said Wednesday a hire would be made no sooner than next week.
Contact Camera Staff Writer Alex Burness at 303-473-1389 or email@example.com.

subset: commoncrawl


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March 14, 2014
A CLE providing essential information for every attorney is set for April 17. The panel of presenters includes Rick E. Marsh (Lane Alton & Horst); Steven Couch (Ohio Bar Liability Insurance Co.) and Jonathan E. Coughlan (Kegler Brown Hill & Ritter).
Topic presentations include lawyers liability insurance issues such as legal malpractice as it relates to attorney-client relationship and current trends in legal malpractice cases. The inside scoop on National Union Ins. Co. v. Wuerth will be covered as will the statute of limitations, including the Discovery Rule in legal malpractice.
Other indispensable topics are how to avoid claims and ethical issues for attorneys in the social media age. This program is CLE Easy Pass eligible. Register online or call (614) 221-4112.


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Thursday, 5 July 2012
7 comments:
- Bill crompton said...
well said,keep up the good work,do not let others spoil your fantastic work.
- Thursday, 05 July, 2012
- the tufty club said...
Thank you, I can get as much negativity as I want from the daily papers,bbc news etc. I like to view this site as a interesting forum on all things Hyde related,there must be many different opinions on many issues by the people who view this site, and I dare say whatever your opinion there will be a political forum somewhere to discuss it.We can all accept a bit of light hearted banter, but I do not wish to see this blog hijacked by anybody with a axe to grind, and a will to impose there politics on others. The team is doing a sterling job.
- Thursday, 05 July, 2012
I really love reading this page don't let narrow minded bigoted people ruin it. Keep up the good work.
- Thursday, 05 July, 2012
- JohnT said...
You are creating an electronic history of Hyde for future generations. Keep up the excellent work. You have my wholehearted support.
Don't let the short sighted retards ruin it!!!
- Thursday, 05 July, 2012
- downsie21 said...
There's no accounting for idiotic racism. Do keep on with the good work and keep deleting the .......!
- Friday, 06 July, 2012
- John Taylor said...
No room for bigots here. This is a site that covers the history of Hyde a proud and wonderful town I was privileged to be born in.
You have the responsibility to ensure what the boundaries are so switch the racists off and publish nothing of their selfish rhetoric.
Please keep up the good work!
- Saturday, 07 July, 2012
- westarsteve said...
this is a fantastic site you always get people trying to spoil things but there is a time and a place for that and its not on this site keep up the good work many thanks steve
- Saturday, 07 July, 2012


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Anyone else having a problem with the ORG? I can get to every forum, but when I click on the ORG, I get sent to a page that says it can't locate the page I asked for and it has a big "I" on the page. I don't know why this is happening.
But if I go to the thread it shows in the ORG without going directly to the ORG, I can get to that thread. But I can't go to the main page of the ORG that shows every available thread.
Hmmm. Frustrating.


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I've got some really cool things coming up for the blog which hopefully will be interesting for you guys – until then, here is one of those aimless, look at what I've been spending me pension on posts.
I spent the weekend in London and here are some of the things I bought home with me!
The Shu Uemura shop in Covent Garden had a small but significant 70% off sale!
The Gold Mode palette, for example was down from £45 to £11! Amazing!
At the Japan Centre I bought this book by Japanese skin guru, Chizu Saeki:
I am in LOVE with this book. I will be doing a full breakdown and review shortly.
(Keep reading, pic heavy!)….At the Shu shop, they also have new larger palettes (that take 32 shadows I think). All my Shu shadows are already in palettes but I feel like having a play and putting my best ones into this huge one!
I got two of the £10 grab bags in Jelly Pong Pong. This one with the Wake Up Make Up set and the Cherry Pie:
And this one has a small brush set and a lip gloss/balm set:
Also at the Japan Centre I went a bit mad with my Beauty Magazines –
Where are my freebies! You normally get amazing freebies with these mags! I also bought Voce.
I bought this from Camden for Baby Gomez (I am the cousin):
From ArtBox I got some random bits, like a little flower mirror, a pencil case and sewing kit:
Got a cheap Pucci Style necklace for £5 in Camden – just realised the ends are a bit tatty – should have checked properly!:
I also got 2 of these keyrings that look quite handmade from the market – 2 for £5
Have you seen these about? These balls are called Eco Soil – you soak them for 6 hours and they become quite large, erm, balls, that you can put into a vase and it lasts for 2 years. Much nicer than brown soil!
I have a sick notebook addiction so I picked up this cute Betty Boop one – for all my Cosmetic Candy Developments?
Just one holiday snap – Megan, star of YouTube at the Roller Disco (learning to skate too, poor thing). Me? I wimped out! I don't remember roller skating being so hard, it must be like when my mother says she can't remember when she forgot how to use the DVD player.
Did you have a good weekend?


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Special event designed to encourage youth participation in shooting sports
Council Grove area youth are invited to attend a free shotgun and archery shooting clinic on Saturday, Oct. 21, at Council Grove Reservoir. Controlled live-fire instruction and a computer hunting simulator will teach safe, responsible, and fun shooting techniques. The event is part of KDWP's Pass It On program, designed to recruit and retain Kansas hunters, particularly youngsters.
Participants will be provided safety and shooting instruction by certified shotgun and archery instructors. All gear and supplies -- including shotguns, shells, bows, arrows, targets, and eye and ear protection will be provided.
Anyone between the ages of 10 and 16 may participate. Participants are required to pre-register for the event. Students are not required to have completed a hunter education course. The event will begin at 12 p.m. at the Corps of Engineers area between Marina Cove and Neosho Park. Check-in and a free lunch will be provided by Quail Unlimited from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. Instruction will begin at 1 p.m. and end at approximately 5 p.m.
The event is sponsored by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP), the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Neosho Valley Chapter of Quail Unlimited, the Kansas Wildlife Officers Association, and Morris County hunter education instructors.
Pre-registration before Oct. 16 is required. For more information, phone Brent Konen at 620-767-5900.


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EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (WEAU) – We're now in the final days of Decision 2012.
This weekend was the last big push for campaigns to energize volunteers and reach voters before the polls open this Tuesday Nov. 6.
The Chippewa Valley has been a hotbed of campaign visits over the past week.
And Sunday was no exception, with TV stars stumping for President Barack Obama in Eau Claire.
Danny DeVito, Rob McElhenney and Glenn Howerton from "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia" and Adam Pally from "Happy Endings" spoke at democratic campaign event.
"We have to have freedom, we have to have human rights. And that's what we would get with Barack Obama," DeVito said.
The actors came to pump up volunteers for the final stretch of knocking on doors and making phone calls.
"Tuesday, we are going to kick some butt," DeVito said.
Recognizing how important Wisconsin is in this election, Pally said the actors are excited to do what they can to help Obama's re-election bid.
"I think we're moving in the right direction especially as far as civil rights goes, and marriage equality and a woman's right to choose. I feel like to take a step back from that now, why? Why do that to people?" Pally said.
Meanwhile at the Eau Claire County Republican Party Headquarters there was a chorus of phone rings as volunteers also made their last minute contacts.
There were lots of young republican faces working the phones at the Altoona office Sunday afternoon.
Considering the state of the economy, volunteers said they're seeing more college students showing up to help out.
"A lot of young people are starting realize that if we don't change how our economy is and everything then they're not going to have a job after school. Mitt Romney has a great five point plan to fix our economy and him and Paul Ryan can do it," said Amy Jewell, a local republican volunteer.
Whether you want Wisconsin to go blue or red, there was a universal message from both parties of having your voice heard on Election Day.
"Just vote, just get out and vote. It's the most important thing is just vote," Pally said.
"If you're not getting your voice heard then you're not going to make a difference," said Beth Sorensen, a local republican volunteer.


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1. Someone disconnected the front propeller shaft. I checked that the rear shaft is still connected at the rear differential. It looks like it takes a lot of work to disconnect the front shaft so I wonder if anyone would bother. I can't get far enough under the car to see if its still connected to the transmission.
2. A gear broke in the transmission or in the rear differential.
Does someone have any ideas as the cause. Has someone lost the AWG due to a gear being broke? Has someone disconnected the front shaft, presumably because of torque bind?
Edited by Turbone, 27 December 2012 - 08:49 PM.


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Invitations to the Queen's Jubilee luncheon were only handed out to European royalty, but there was a Kiwi name on everyone's lips at the exclusive soiree - Emilia Wickstead.
Wickstead, 28, from Auckland, was the designer behind the Duchess of Cambridge's elegant, rose-coloured dress.
Photos of the $2500 dress went around the world, and Whitecliffe College of Arts and Design founder Michele Whitecliffe said the publicity was priceless.
"Money can't buy that sort of endorsement. Kate Middleton is the most admired woman in the world right now and Emilia will be riding the wave of success," she said.
"Kate is the personification of elegance. She's tall, she has an amazing figure, she looks amazing. I'm sure Emilia's business will grow enormously."
Fashion commentator and blogger Amber Whitecliffe said the duchess was a perfect fit with Wickstead's brand: "It sends that message of being elegant, sophisticated and glamorous."
Product placement agent Kim Ellet agreed that Wickstead's business would boom - as it had when the Duchess wore a different Wickstead garment on St Patrick's Day in February.
"Anything Kate wears get world-wide attention and tends to sell out the next day. All of a sudden, people will be seeking out that designer. This is huge for her."
The luncheon celebrated 60 years of Queen Elizabeth II's reign.


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Star native, husband receive Prince Rainier III award
Newton native Pauletta Pearson Washington and her husband, Denzel Washington, were honored in New York City for their acting careers and community outreach.
The Princess Grace Foundation-USA held the 28th annual Princess Grace Awards Gala on Nov. 10 in New York City. The awards ceremony included the presentation of 21 awards to emerging artists in theater, dance and film, as well as the Prince Rainier III Award to be presented to Denzel and Pauletta Washington.
Denzel and Pauletta Washington received the award in recognition of their outstanding careers and philanthropic endeavors. In addition to their distinguished professional accomplishments, Denzel and Pauletta Washington have been devoted to numerous philanthropic causes for more than 20 years. This is the first time a couple will share the Prince Rainier III Award honor, which was inaugurated in 2005 by the PGF-USA Board of Trustees in recognition of the man who helped begin the Foundation.
This award is presented to eminent artists who have not only been highly successful in their careers, but have made significant humanitarian contributions to their fields. To date, Mikhail Baryshnikov (2005), Twyla Tharp (2006), George Lucas (2007), Glenn Close (2008) and Mandy Patinkin (2009) have received this honor, which includes a grant of $25,000 to the philanthropic organization of their choice.
The Princess Grace Foundation-USA is a not-for-profit, publicly-supported foundation headquartered in New York City and founded more than 25 years ago by Prince Rainier III of Monaco in honor of his wife, Princess Grace (Kelly). The Foundation's mission, that mirrors Princess Grace's in Her lifetime, is to support emerging artists in theater, dance and film through the awarding of scholarships, apprenticeships and fellowships. Since its inception, the Foundation has bestowed more than 650 awards totaling more than $7 million in grants.


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A Pomona jury convicted a former ice-skating coach Tuesday of molesting a teenage boy and a young girl while living in Hacienda Heights and Downey.
Donald James Vincent, 30, who lived in Torrance when arrested in January of 2013, was ordered to return to Pomona Superior Court Feb. 21 for sentencing, Los Angeles County District Attorney's officials said in a written statement.
"He faces multiple life sentences in state prison," according to the statement.
The jury deliberated for less than one day before finding Vincent guilty of one count of continuous sexual abuse of a child, two counts of lewd acts upon a child, two counts of forcible lewd acts on a child, and five charges relating to sex acts with a child under 10, according to the D.A.'s office.
The charged crimes took place between 2007 and 2011 , while Vincent was living in Hacienda Heights and Downey, D.A.'s officials said.
The charges were related to students he coached at Paramount Iceland in in Paramount, though he also worked at at least six other ice skating rinks throughout Los Angeles, Riverside and Orange counties in the 7 years leading up to his arrest, according to District Attorney's and Los Angeles County sheriff's officials.
They included the East/West Ice Palace in Artesia; Glacial Gardens in Lakewood; Norwalk Ice, which has since closed; Skating Edge Ice Arena in Harbor City; Anaheim Ice in Anaheim; and Ice Town Riverside in Riverside.
Detectives from the Sheriff's Special Victim Bureau initially jailed Vincent in connection with the molestation of a male student while he was between 12 and 15 years old, Lt. Carlos Marquez said. The molestation came to light two years later when the victim told a friend at a youth camp of the molestation and was persuaded to tell authorities.
At the time of his arrest, officials encouraged any additional victims of Vincent to come forward. And one did, additional charged were later filed in connection with violent acts of molestation against a girl younger than 10 years old.
Vincent remained in custody in lieu of $6 million bail pending trial, officials said. Once convicted, he was ordered held without bail pending sentencing.
Ex-ice skating coach convicted of child molestation
A Pomona jury convicted a former ice-skating coach Tuesday of molesting a teenage boy and a young girl while living in Hacienda Heights and Downey.


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March 31, 20124:30 pm
Chapelle historique du Bon-Pasteur
100, rue Sherbrooke Est
Works by Boudreau, Scelsi.
A day of celebrations! The SMCQ marks the 30-year career of Louise Bessette, contemporary music doyenne, by giving her free rein over a one-of-a-kind triple concert. The pianist will open the event with ARTefact to perform several premieres, as well as Sokolović's City Songs, before tackling some red hot pieces in the second half (Scelsi and Boudreau). She will close the day with pianist Peter Hill, renown for his performances of Messiaen.
Production SMCQ
Pianist Louise Bessette has carved out a distinctive place for her herself in the performance of some of the most important works of our time. Recognized for her eclectic repertoire and virtuosic performances, she has been singled out for a number of awards.


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Moisture can ruin the walls, ceilings, furniture, carpeting, and floors. If left uncorrected by water removal, it can also decrease the value of your property, which is one of your biggest investments. This guide is packed with tips and it will make sure your property is well-maintained. A well-maintained house will give you and your loved ones increased safety, peace of mind, and security.
If you have a Professional Black Mold Removal Services Hubbard OR 97032 flood, water damage can begin in minutes. If this happens, you need to take action quickly. An accident or water-related disaster needs immediate attention in order to prevent permanent damage to a home. You can prevent serious damage to your property and your belongings by contacting a water removal company. Water removal experts are trained and experienced and they know exactly what to do when water-related disasters Hubbard OR 97032 strike. If you have a flood because of a broken water pipe, leaky roof, or bad weather, a water removal expert will help you fix the problem quickly.
If you find that your home is destroyed or seriously damaged, you will have to decide if it is safe for you to enter the building. If you aren't sure if it is safe for you to enter the building, Water Damage - Cleaning and Drying Hubbard OR 97032 you should not go inside the house. If this happens, make sure you contact your insurance company. Tell them what has happened. They will provide you with a claim number, so make sure you keep that handy.
If your home is safe enough to enter, you should turn the power off and disable the main circuit breaker panel. You should still do this if the power grid is Hubbard OR 97032 down in your neighborhood. The panel is usually located in the garage, the side of the house, in the basement or utility room. You should turn off the natural gas supply lines and shut off the water supply. The valve needs to be turned clockwise in order to shut it off. You may need a wrench or pliers to complete this step. Remember that the sooner you Hubbard OR 97032 start protecting your belongings and home from further damage, the more quickly you will recover from the accident or disaster.
If you have a flood or a serious water event, don't put your children and family at risk. You should also keep your pets away from the flooded areas.
It it is safe to do so, you can cover doors, broken windows, damaged walls, and roof areas with plastic Hubbard OR 97032 sheeting to protect your home against rainwater damage. If you do not feel safe doing this, you should get professional help.
You should take your personal belongings to a place that is safe and dry. If possible, put your rugs, furniture, and water-damaged clothes in a sunny location.
If there is water in the house, you can sweep it into the outdoors. Remember that a water removal company can Hubbard OR 97032 help you extract the water quickly and safely. They can also help you remove the water from your carpets. When it comes to floods, quick action is very important. If you don't remove the water from your carpets and rugs, you may not be able to salvage them. If your rugs are valuable, you can get them cleaned by a professional. Further, you can use fans, an Hubbard OR 97032 air conditioner, or dehumidifier to dry out the inside of your house. A reliable water removal company uses the latest techniques and professional equipment and their employees will dry your house out thoroughly. They will help you prevent damage to your ceilings, floors, walls, furniture, and personal belongings, so make sure you contact a professional immediately when a disaster strikes.


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Make the Switch… to the modular stroller that allows baby to face you or the world! Updated with a more streamlined design, with four ball bearing wheels and suspension, allowing for increased maneuverability and style. also includes foot muff and rain shield, keeping baby cozy in any weather.
matching foot muff with warming hand pockets, keeps your child warm and cozy on cool days.
Wheels with 12 ball bearings and suspensions allow for 360 degree agility and less effort in pushing
You dont have to worry about your little bundle of joy getting bitten by mosquitoes or other bugs with the Mosquito Netting by Peg Perego. Peg Perego has even added a clear PVC window that your little one can look out of, without the Mosquito Netting obscuring the view of your little bundle of joy.
Peg Perego IS off! Just a few careful moves are enough to ensure your baby maximum safety. Safe and cozy inside this car seat, your baby will soon find out that traveling is a treat and that daddy's car can be as comfortable as home itself: the safety belts, the side protection wings to delicately support the baby's head, have all been specially designed to enable the whole family to set off even on long journeys in total comfort and peace of mind. Upon arrival, moving the car seat from the car to the chassis is done in a flash, thanks to the easy-to-use handle.
And off we go again! Primo Viaggio Sip 30-30 has been specially created to make your baby a great traveler right from the very start
The integrated, comprehensive SIP safety system can be easily adjusted as your baby grows and includes a quick release feature, assuring maximum safety.
New for 2012 your child can enjoy theyre favorite snack and juice while being strolled around in style. Easily snap on and off the Child Tray for a hassle free clean up.Fits the Switch Four only
Peg Perego Car Seat Adapter for Book Pop Up, Book Plus and Switch Four Strollers. It is compatible with the Maxi Cosi: Prezi & Mico and Cybex: Aton & Aton 2 infant car seats.
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The 23-year old, who started all five of Wales' recent Six Nations games, will stay at the Liberty Stadium until at least the end of the 2015/16 season.
"This is an organisation that has always been very good to me and supported me so it's great that I can recognise that by committing my future to the region," said Biggar.
"It's always nice to get things sorted and to be all done and dusted. Now I've signed, it means I can concentrate on the next few weeks and helping the team to secure a play-off place without any distractions."
Biggar made his senior Ospreys debut as an 18-year old in an EDF Energy Cup semi-final win over Saracens at the Millennium Stadium in March 2008. His first start then came in an away win over Glasgow in September that year.
Since then, he has flourished in the Ospreys environment with his durability and consistency in the number 10 shirt allowing him to reach some considerable landmarks for the region.
In November 2011, less than a month after his 22nd birthday, he overtook James Hook to become the region's all-time highest points scorer, a record he has since extended to 1,206.
And in April 2012, he became the youngest ever Osprey to reach 100 regional caps.
Biggar added: "I think both parties are very happy with where we are and can really look forward to the future positively. The Ospreys wanted to keep me and I wanted to stay so it's always been a case of agreeing on a few things.
"This is a great environment with fantastic facilities and great coaches. It brings the best from you as a player and I consider myself fortunate to have come through this system to represent my home region. That's very important, as you have to be happy in your environment, wherever you are."
The ninth player to have signed a new deal with the region this season, Biggar has followed the likes of Lloyd Peers and Rhys Webb in committing to the Ospreys.
And after establishing himself as Wales' first choice fly half in the recent Six Nations campaign, Biggar is looking for more success at both national and regional level.
"My aim is to be competing for trophies with the Ospreys every year. I've discussed this at length with the coaches and management here," he added.
"There are a lot of good players here at the Ospreys. We've got experienced, quality senior players and some exciting youngsters coming through and we've shown that we can get the right blend to be competitive.
"There's no reason why we can't continue developing from within while competing with the best. I'm excited about what we can potentially achieve as a group."


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May 29, 2007
By the end of most nights my dining room table (and the floor) is full of paper craft scraps, cut outs and I have sticky glue residue on my fingers. Last night was no exception but I have little bundles of ATCs and tags to show for it so its all worth it right?!
Some doodle ATCs for a swap, Tags for a trade with Jessica and Tea themed ATCs for another swap - I painted my paper with tea and coffee for an aged effect.
I still need to complete one more ATC for Bonnie!
Its so weird now as I just cant sit and watch TV anymore - I have to be doing something else as well otherwise its wasted time for me!!
Life is hectic enough so I don't know why I make it worse but crafting is an outlet for me, it's my 'ME' time, I just love to zone out and see what comes out of it!
A few of you have commented on where I get the time to do everything but I usually sit down to create or draw once my boys are in bed at 8.00pm, I then clear up the kitchen - if my sink is clean and clear of dirty dishes then I'm one happy girl! And off I go…
Andrew usually works on his laptop or watches TV nearby and most nights he is snoring by 9.30pm! Ha-ha poor darling!
After putting in 12hrs at the office I don't blame him but me… well I'm a bit of a night owl…always have been. If I have my late night cup of tea and my craft goodies nearby I'm happy to stay up until very late!!
I've also been reading quite a bit before bedtime too – I just finished 'The Kite Runner' which I loved and have now passed onto my man!!! I'm now reading 'To Kill a Mockingbird' which I've been speeding through – such a great book which suprisingly I had never ever read!!!
On the weekend I bought some great frames for my art prints - most will go in the formal living room as I plan to rearrange a few things.
Michelle Caplan collages - how handsome is 'The Italian' below....
'Tea Affair' by my good bloggy pal Vanessa and cute girls by Christina of Jam Fancy
My Sofia Barro print also arrived - its bewdifful!!!! will need proffessional framing as I cant find a frame that size!
Tomorrow Im off to the hospital for my oral surgery – Ive got my little overnight bag packed and ready to go!!
Hope it all goes Ok!!!???
Have a great week everyone!
May 26, 2007
My son Peter has a really large poster of Homer Simpson near his bed. I cant stand it as its a real eyesore!
He doesnt even watch the Simpsons but when the poster came free with the daily newspaper he demanded it go up in his room.
Whenever I sweetly suggest we take it down he starts crying! Im
such a mean mummy......................
I recently bought some
'Small People' postcards from Marianne
and I plan to frame some for one of the walls in their room. I must admit not having done much in their room, it still looks quite baby-ish although they're growing up super fast!!
Maybe I should show him some nicer alternatives...
I love these movie Posters from 'Jacques Tati' films
Babar the Elephant was
a favourite of mine
Pirate Boy is
super! what little boy doesnt pretend he is a pirate. This piece is by Amy Alexander at GeorgieLove
I recently found
MillyMollyMandy etsy shop - I love Mandy's illustrations. This one is my favourite, maybe not for my boys but Id be happy with that over my bed!
May 24, 2007
Illustration Friday - Signs
My sketch this week is about the Signs of aging
We scrutinize our face for all the little signs. The Beauty industry is booming, advertisers make us believe that if we buy their products then miracles will happen and sadly we do get sucked in. Then we have this crazy obsession about not getting old, people are rushing to get botox, fillers, peels and ...gulp.... face lifts! What next!?
May 22, 2007
The Wine festival was a great success…lots of people gathered and I was really surprised at all the free wine! Usually when you have wine tasting they give you a little cup and a teeny tiny taste – well not at this festival!
They were filling the cups right up…I guess it's the Greek way of life - good wine, plenty of food , lots of music and dance and their happy!
I found a recipe online at Burek boy for the honey balls (locoumades) and his method with pics is here. My mother in law adds mashed potato to hers for extra crunch!
Some young kids danced the traditional folk dances. The Water Jug dance is cute! It potrays village life where the young girls would go down to the local spring to fill their ceramic jugs. The local village boys would follow them and flirt which the girls would ignore of course until one of the boys causes the girl to break her jug, he then presents her with some flowers and a new jug and all is well again. The other dance is the 'Sieve dance' using the olf fashioned sieves that every household would have.
He places two small glasses filled with brandy and dances them around up and over his head, the movements so fast that nothing ever falls...not one drop of Brandy!!
The traditional costumes in the pictures are what people used to wear everyday. I have a great picture of my grandfather Solomos and his brothers all wearing their Vrakas (pants) and knee high boots! I might have to show you one day!
May 19, 2007
Say hi to Lila, my first ever Paper Art doll...she was fun to make and has moveable elbows and knees just so she can dance and stretch! too cute! I got to use some of my vintage trimming for her party dress...aint she pretty...
She is on her way to the USA now...
So yesterday I had my appointment with the mouth surgeon and the tooth that lost its way and embedded itself in my gum has got to go!! Im bummed about that but hey its the only way if Im ever going to get these braces on so
Im booked in for surgery on the 30th May! As the doctor was talking I was thinking to myself ...' Hmmm but the Papercraft festival is on the
1st June.' ...crafting or surgery??
I know what Id prefer to do but its got to be done sooner than later I guess and I'll be all puffed up and seeping blood from the mouth....not a good look !! Its an overnight stay and I should be back to normal within a week. Looks like I'll be living on liquids or soggy food for a bit...yum, love my soup!
To perk me up a bit I bought this book,
love it!! beautiful pictures, makes you want to pack up and move to Italia and drink espresso all day long....Crustation blogged about the author a while back, its a great book - check it next time you're in a bookstore!
Tommorow we are going to the annual Wine Festival at the Cypriot club. My mother in law volunteers in the womans committee and we promised her we'd go so it will be a day of eating souvalki, honey balls and taste testing wine...hope the weather holds out and I can take lots of photos!
Have a fun weekend everyone....
Some ATCs I made!
May 17, 2007
Illustration Friday - Citrus
Almost didnt make it this week - I was kind of stuck what to draw! anyway I did this whilst watching 'Lost' and 'Amazing Race'
"Oranges and lemons," rang the bells of St Clemens. "You owe me three farthings!" rang the bells of St. Martin's. "When will you pay me?", rang the Bells of St. Davey. "When I grow rich!", rang the Bells of Shoreditch
May 15, 2007
I love this paper collage image that I found ages ago in French Elle Décor...what a great mix of colour!!!
the other day I came across this amazing picture by Eclectic Gypsyland via
Gypsy Purple - love that bedroom!!!!
I got totally inspired to make these collage tags for Raesha's tag swap. I cut all the papers into tiny squares in all different sizes and then glued randomly onto craft paper. Once it was dry I then glued my tags onto the paper and then cut them out - I like the effect...little shabby paper quilts.
More tags that Im sending for the swap!
May 13, 2007
Hope all the mothers are having a great day!!
Just got back from a lovely lunch with my parents....the boys are now having a nap then we're off to my inlaws for roast dinner!
Here is my mum. Love her to bits although she drives me crazy sometimes.....no gentle soft spoken mother here - she's strong, loud and demanding, if you upset her she'll go on and on for days, she's a perfectionist, an excellent seamstress and homemaker although not too traditional (my dad does ALOT!) but I wouldnt have it any other way! I look upto her and love her for who she is....hey when Im 50 she'll be 68! how cool is that....Two days ago she rolled off her fitness ball and hurt her hip....thats all we heard about at lunch today haha.....my sister and I couldnt stop smirking! Love you mum!!
" A hundred years from now it will not matter what my bank account was, the sort of house I lived in or the kind of car I drove....but the world may be a different because I was important in the life of a child"
May 11, 2007
Cotton-tulle-and-eyelet gown by Dolce & Gabbana
The price of this dress can get you a 10% down payment on a brand new swish Sydney apartment. Hmmm...maybe this news is all too much, she needs to go upstairs for a lie down?
Her outfit might be a little bland for some although I could total wear this look, but look at those doors!!
like me, I know a few of my favourite bloggers love the beauty in old decaying buildings - stunning!
A good look for a hot blind date? Non?
I had to get the April issue of US Elle just for this floral layout! love it!! Bad hair day sweetheart?
Cruststation and
Meet me at Mikes
tagged me to list 7 random facts...love lists like these!!
ok here goes....
1) When I was 3 I put a bead up my nose and pushed it so high up that I had to go to hospital to have it removed.
2) I have over 500 clippings of Helena Christensen...before you think 'Freak! Stalker!' it was early 90's and everyone was into the supermodel thing and hey I was a huge fan. I dont collect anymore nor do I need them but Id never throw them or give them away.
3) I love pharmacies....first thing I do when im in a new city, town or country i have to find a pharmacy! love going through the shelves finding interesting products and packaging! After I had my eldest Peter I fell in love with 'Mustela' baby products.....last year when we were in Cyprus I couldnt believe how cheap they were so I stocked up!
4) When I was 8 I was hit by a car, no damage to me or the car, but as soon as I got up my grandfather Kosta slapped me across the face, he said it was to ensure I wouldnt stay in shock! Huh?!!
the slap made me cry more than the incident.
(me at 9mnths with my Pappou Kosta)
5. I love to cook and bake but hate making dinner....sounds weird but just the thinking of what to cook with what ingrediants you have and planning, preparing shopping lists.....its all so tiring sometimes!
6. Navy Blue is my favourite colour!
7. I had one and a half wedding dresses made...the first one wasnt working out so I just told her to stop...I cried for 2 days then got over the fact I wasted $800 on Italian silk lace and fabric and ended up with a new design and a new designer! and before you think I was a Bridezilla ...she had no idea what she was doing!! really!!
It was a splendid day apart from Andrew getting faint at the alter...(home funny videos moment) no, not from seeing me but from not eating all day mixed in with nerves ...so after the service we went and had burgers and coke at a nearby cafe......
oh and I'll add one more....Im quite shy, maybe I dont come across that way (how do i come across???) but I am....
Im tagging
Jo, Cindy, Kandeedo, Paula, Shae, Veronica, Melissa
May 10, 2007
Illustration Friday - Neighbours
Peter's so lucky to have little Christopher as our neighbour, he's a year older and they love to communicate through the fence especially on the weekend when we're all home. They come round we go over to their house, we have Barbeques in Summer, they play, they fight over toys but when its snack time they're just happy to be together.
On our other side live an elderly couple who are just as lovely. Every Tuesday after the garbage men come by they'll roll my garbage bin and my recycleables bin back inside my driveway, such a nice gesture. They have a beachside holiday home so are away alot but every now and then Maria will come over for some tea, she's so sweet and polite but when Im out putting my washing on the line I can sometimes hear her giving her husband a good telling off haha....
May 8, 2007
That was me this morning, rushing to get to work!
I woke up SO late after spending most of the night ironing. I refuse to iron more than once a week even though my pile is never ending....
Thank you for all your lovely comments and for totally understanding my desire for another baby but really I wonder, would I cope? I have a hard time juggling everything and Im super lucky to have lots of support in my man, mum and mother in law...its nice to dream and ponder though and anyway who knows? Im only 36! knowing my luck my eggs would go crazy and Id end up with triplets?!?
So I dropped the boys off at my mums in their pyjamas this morning (no time to dress them) with a bag full of clothes and at 9.05am I get a call at work
from my mum that I forgot to pack Peter some jeans so the poor darling was in pyjama bottoms all day...sigh...oh well, if this is one of my bad mummy moments then Im fine with that!
Do you like my vintage babies? one is staying with me and her sister is flying over the pacific to a blogging friend who Im sure will take care of her.
I found them at The Rozelle Flea Market on Sunday....i love going through peoples things...especially boxes..you just never know what you'll find at the bottom!
I bought some old lace ribbons and scraps and lots of plastic cameo ladies and buttons, some music paper and vintage booklets - love the fonts on the lettering!!
a quick sketch of buttons and toffees.
have a FAB day!!
May 6, 2007
Tickled Pink!!
Finished some pink ATCs for a 'pink pink and more pink' swap.
I think Im hooked on ATCs - they are so fun to make!
I think the pink theme rubbed off as this morning my good friend Patty who is also my Neo's godmother had a baby girl, welcome little Aerial!
very exciting as we were all convinced she was having a boy again.
Im a little jealous too as Id love to have a baby girl and Im still not sure if my baby making days are over... I know Andrew isnt keen on a third child but when I see a newborn my heart still yearns for another little one....then I think what if we do and its another boy? I know that would be a blessing but is it so wrong for me to dream of a little girl?
May 3, 2007
LoveSeat Love....
I love the look of these upholstered love-seat sofas. They create such an opulent feeling especially when the fabric has a lovely texture and colour...love the silvery gray brocade and bubble gum pink velvet for a little girl's room. My house was built in the 30's and although the back of the house has been renovated into a open plan family room/kitchen, which is very popular now, we kept one of the front rooms as our formal living room. I feel kind of sad for this room as no one enjoys it, I sometimes go in to have a quiet read but generally Im only in there to dust and clean up. Anyway Ive been thinking about changing things around in the formal room, it could do with a little pick me up, a new lamp or print maybe?
I spotted this limited print by Sofia Barao in her etsy store...I think that would look beautiful in there. How pretty!!
I love Carolina Herrera Jr's loveseat as seen in an old issue of Domino. She said she found it on Ebay and had it shipped to her apt in Madrid!
The Herrera girls are super stylish!


text:
alt.napster - Our Roundup of Napster Alternativesby Steve McCannell
Napster users had been living the high life with access to virtually any audio recording you can think of. Now that the RIAA has finally gotten the courts to order Napster to filter its traffic, Napster use has declined at a steady pace with many users jumping ship and using other P2P file-sharing programs.
The majority of the more popular file-sharing programs are decentralized, which makes copyright protection much harder to enforce. Most of the more popular file-sharing services rely on the Gnutella protocol, which is based on the idea of a transient Web; sources of information constantly changing locations. Freenet uses a different method, using "keys" to identify information in the system, and anybody can access this information using the appropriate key (much like a URL works). Unlike the Web, information on Freenet is not stored at fixed locations or subject to any kind of centralized control. Currently, there is no way to search Freenet, and no way to find a file unless you know its key.
What makes these types of networks so interesting is that we're not limited to searching for just MP3s. Programs, images, video, documents; any file type imaginable can be found with most file-sharing networks. Now that there are so many of these file-sharing programs, which ones are giving the best user experience? Right now there are about a half dozen leaders, and each one varies tremondously. Using a T1 line and a PC with 256MB of RAM, I took each of these leaders out for a spin and ranked (out of 5 stars) how each looked, felt and performed.
Interface Design
Successful Downloads
Ease of Use
Overall User Experience
Overall Rating
Supported Platforms
The sleekest looking out of the programs I chose to review, the Java-based LimeWire, is compatible with the Gnutella file-sharing protocol and can connect with anyone running Gnutella-compatible software. While the program may take up a bit of your available memory, LimeWire has yet to freeze up my computer. In fact, I could surf the Web using both browsers at the same time, launch PhotoShop, run my e-mail client and keep my Unix window open while LimeWire was running with no problems.
A couple of things set LimeWire apart from the rest. One is the ability to connect to topic specific networks, such as comedy, audio, video, etc. LimeWire can also do multiple searches at the same time, creating a tab for each search where you can track the status of each query. This is quite useful, because if a file fails to download, all you have to do is select the tab and choose another location to download it from rather than clearing out your current search results like you have to do with Napster, BearShare and iMesh. LimeWire also claims that they have improved their ability to push through firewalls, which lends for more broadband locations to download from. The most useful feature from LimeWire is the ability to search by file type (audio, video, programs, images or documents), narrowing your search results to only the file types you might be interested in.
If you're not interested in anything other than MP3s, LimeWire seems to be the one for you, as I was able to download most audio files with little to no problem. Video seems to be another story though (I imagine this is because MP3s have propogated across the network more than any video file, so supply meets demand). Bach's Tocatta and Fugue in D minor was downloaded within minutes, but every attempt at downloading a "Muppet Show" episode timed out or failed. After numerous attempts, I was finally able to download the trailer to "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon," and it probably would've been faster if I had just gone to Apple's Quicktime site and downloaded it the old-fashioned way. Downloading program files didn't seem to be a problem. Although I already have the Rubber Man plug-in for PhotoShop installed on my machine, I was able to download a copy from LimeWire with no problem.
|Do you have a favorite file-sharing program that wasn't reviewed or don't agree with our rankings?
|Post your opinion
Overall, LimeWire shines. Even though it is a bulky program, my computer didn't feel the effects of being connected to the network. Available for every platform with an easy to use interface, the use of tabs to keep track of searches and an adequate ratio of downloads::failures makes LimeWire the leading file-sharing program based on my experiments. Four out of five stars.
BearShare 2.2.0
Interface Design
Successful Downloads
Ease of Use
Overall User Experience
Overall Rating
Supported Platforms
I'm probably going to get a lot of flaming e-mail about my review of BearShare, as it is one of the most popular alternative file-sharing programs, but I've never been too impressed with this application. Attempting to surf the Web and run BearShare at the same time can slow my computer to a crawl. Where LimeWire has the sleek GUI, BearShare's more closely resembles the first Gnutella client I downloaded about a year ago. Looks aren't everything though, and BearShare does sport some nice features.
The hosts tab displays a graphic representing the origin of a connected node. Status indicators provide information about the status of the different components (search, downloads, uploads, etc.). Double clicking on the status indicators minimizes your client window to just the indicators, which you can keep track of without having to have a window open. The host list includes graphics of where the host is coming from, and full documentation of the client is available at their site (they should get a star just for that).
One other interesting feature is the "Quality of Search" bars when one puts out a query to the network. Red indicates the server is busy, grey or hollow that the server is unproven, and green indicates available download slots. Nice to know that even though the originator of the file may be connected to the network, you probably don't want to waste your time attempting to get files from them.
The technology behind BearShare is what interested me the most. Like LimeWire, BearShare has introduced connection-preferencing rules into its incarnation of their Gnutella client. When all the peers connect and one user stops sending information, a ping goes out to that peer. If no response comes back, that peer is dropped from the network. This way like-bandwidth users can talk with one another, and those on a dial-up can still reside on the network. The BearShare client has a tab for checking the statistics for the network in case you're interested.
So does this technology mean you can download files easier using BearShare? Not necessarily. BearShare doesn't allow for searching of specific file types like LimeWire and iMesh do, making your query results full of files you couldn't care less about. For instance, unless you select the "hide results that don't match" box under setup, searching for Stravinsky's Rite of Spring can also returns things like "springtraining.gif" and "Girls Gone Wild Spring Break.mpg." Download failures seemed to be a little bit more frequent using BearShare also, but there are any number of variables that could account for that. Once again, MP3s failed far less often than any .mov or .mpg file.
All in all, BearShare may be right for some people, but you'll find it in my recycle bin shortly after this gets published. Two out of five stars.
Interface Design
Successful Downloads
Ease of Use
Overall User Experience
Overall Rating
Supported Platforms
The closest thing to Napster out of the bunch is Israeli-based iMesh, which allows you to download files directly from anybody connected to the iMesh network. You can also search for files from its Web site, but the page is tough to get to at times due to either high amounts of traffic or the upgrading of their servers.
There are quite a few features that make iMesh stand out from the pack. One is the fact that if someone disconnects while you are trying to download a file of their computer, iMesh will either continue to download that file from a different user or finish it the next time the disconnecting user logs on. Quite a nice feature to say the least. They also make skins available to change the appearance of the application.
Searching using iMesh is like searching Napster, only (like LimeWire) you can filter your searches by file type. Once you enter a search, it goes into your "search history" much like when you visit a Web site and your browser remembers that you've been there before. A handy pulldown menu from the search field gives quick access to previous searches.
Downloading from iMesh is fantastic. I was able to download a 24 MB .avi file in about an hour. Your search results yield an availability ranking (out of five stars), so if you're afraid of downloading a file and getting disconnected halfway through, you know that choosing a file with a five-star availiablity rating will better allow for iMesh to continue downloading the file from a different user. Unfortunately, the connections to the network can be erratic, with disconnection a possibility at any time (like as I'm writing this article). So if you're interested in less popular files and get disconnected, you may be out of luck. Add in that you have to sit through advertising within the window and you've got yourself a sour experience at times.
IMesh is a bulky program, so much so that it drains my systems resources at times and has caused my computer to crash at least once. Still, the fact that this is the easiest place to find the most popular files makes it impossible for me to give the program a bad rating. Three and a half stars.
Interface Design
Successful Downloads
Ease of Use
Overall User Experience
Overall Rating
Supported Platforms
Now that Napster's filters are becoming more and more robust, what's an audiophile to do? Try out Napigator, which looks for nap servers for you to join. Borrowing from the Napster protocol, nap servers are independently run connection hubs using a static IP address. A nap server provides the ability to search for particular files and initiate a direct transfer between clients. More information on nap server can be found at http://opennap.sourceforge.net.
What is great about Napigator is that you can use it in conjunction with the Napster GUI; a Napigator tab will appear on the far right of your Napster window upon firing up the program. Napigator also put out their own GUI, which isn't all that useful since it only picks out nap servers to connect to, you can't search for files from there. Not all that handy, but a nice bonus to a powerful Napster substitute.
It took me a minute to figure out how to get Napigator working within the Napster client, then another minute to actually find a network that I could connect to, but once I did it was just like "the old Napster." The number of nap networks available astounded me. One click of the refresh button updates the server list to up to the second available connections in case you aren't finding a nap server that suits your needs. I imagine Music City (one of the main nap server providers) will be the next target of the RIAA, followed by independents hosting nap servers, but until then it's a free for all.
Napigator isn't for just audio either. That being said, this is the best audio file-sharing program around. You now get to choose which server you'd like to connect to. With Napster you didn't really get a choice, whichever network you fell into is the one you were stuck with unless you disconnected and reconnected again. With Napigator you might want to connect to a server with the least amount of users and lowest ping times for the best connection, or you can choose a server with the most amount of files if you're having a hard time finding the song you want on less popular servers.
The variety of servers and its integration with the Napster client are a real coup for users. Time will tell just how useful Napigator will be once more nap servers get shut down, but until then it is one of the easiest ways to find files. The only fault with Napigator is their not-to-useful GUI, I give it a score of 3.5 stars.
Deep Thoughts
Related Articles:
Gnutella: Alive, Well, and Changing Fast
Gnutella and the Transient Web
The biggest myth surrounding these file-sharing type programs is that the users are anonymous, and there isn't a thing that copyright holders can do to stop file-trading from happening. Au contraire, mon frere. Both LimeWire and BearShare (which use the Gnutella protocol) can trace users from their IP addresses, making for the violators themselves to become targets from copyright holders. IMesh is in the same boat as Napster, being on foreign soil doesn't make them immune from U.S. law or financial responsibility. Napigator is only as good as the servers that it can find; if nap servers start getting sued ala Napster, expect the majority of them to shut down.
We're witnessing a very interesting and important development in the history of our technology. More and more file-sharing programs have sprouted up since the original injunction against Napster, and more technological advances toward making file-sharing networks more robust are being made each week. Eventually the file-sharing herd will have to be thinned out, and only the strongest will survive.
Now if you'll excuse me, I'm off to track down an episode of "The Muppet Show."
Steve McCannell is a writer/producer for the O'Reilly Network and the founder of Lost Dog Found Music.
2003-05-12 17:29:07 anonymous2 [View]
2003-12-27 00:07:50 anonymous2 [View]
2002-11-22 20:32:21 anonymous2 [View]
2002-09-23 11:31:29 anonymous2 [View]
2002-04-25 02:27:43 juan1982 [View]
2003-11-07 23:22:06 anonymous2 [View]
2003-11-07 23:22:03 anonymous2 [View]
2003-11-07 23:22:03 anonymous2 [View]
2002-01-17 23:26:04 ploquit [View]
2001-12-21 00:08:35 flemmingleer [View]
2001-08-03 09:01:52 unolinuxguru [View]
MusicCity Morpheus! -bye edonkey2k
2003-11-14 00:40:26 anonymous2 [View]
2001-07-11 15:32:14 cdi [View]
2001-06-21 00:18:56 die211 [View]
2001-06-05 07:14:56 unolinuxguru [View]
2001-06-05 07:11:26 unolinuxguru [View]
2001-05-31 07:43:20 exegesys [View]
2001-05-29 15:43:35 evan80015 [View]
2001-05-28 02:08:40 stemmanu [View]
2001-05-01 20:11:55 wer [View]
Uhh... Search results of Bearshare.
2001-05-16 11:34:02 Steve McCannell | [View]
2001-05-01 12:05:10 binil_thomas [View]
2001-04-27 16:11:26 sgamer [View]
LimeWire is slow.
2001-05-16 12:25:08 Steve McCannell | [View]
2001-04-23 16:07:08 masque [View]
You missed AG???
2001-06-09 22:47:59 firstname.lastname@example.com [View]
You missed AG???
2001-05-16 11:35:33 Steve McCannell | [View]
2001-04-17 13:06:32 Steve McCannell | [View]
Did BearShare really get gyped?
2001-06-09 22:43:31 email@example.com [View]


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Lowell's artists are gearing up for the onslaught of visitors who troop in to the city during Lowell Folk Festival weekend. They'll gather in the cool, brick-lined courtyard adjacent to the Lowell National Historical Park Visitors Center and the Brush Art Gallery and Studios for Art in the Courtyard, one of the most popular spots at the fest to check out art, chat with artists and make a purchase or two, as well.
The venue is also adjacent to two main stages at the fest -- Dutton Street Dance Stage and Market Street Stage -- and a popular stopping-off spot for visitors making their way between both.
The Brush Art Gallery and Studios, a long-time partner of the Lowell National Historical Park, supervises Art in the Courtyard.
Lowell artists participating include Bill Bradbury, caricatures; Mel Carota, chalk; Eling Chang, fiber dolls; Arlette Laan, fiber; Emily Schroer, collage/mixed media and Liz Stewart, beaded jewelry. Other artists are from Amherst, Arlington, Tyngsboro, Medford, Worcester, Carlisle, Hull, Brookline, Somerville and Melrose in Massachusetts and also from Branford, Conn., Bradenton, Fla., and Paris, France.
Hours are Saturday, July 27, noon-8:30 p.m. and Sunday, July 28, noon-5 p.m. For info, visit www.artinthecourtyard.org.
Art picks
- IT'S THE COOLEST: Heading to the Lowell Folk Festival July 26-28? You can get in on the action and help out to boot if you join the Cultural Organization of Lowell's volunteer crew. COOL volunteers help spread the word about arts and cultural happenings that take place year-round in Lowell. You'll help out at the COOL booth and hand out flyers, brochures and giveaways to the public. Shifts run in two-hour blocks on Saturday and Sunday, July 27-28, from noon-2 p.m., 2-4 p.m. and 4-6 p.m. Volunteers also nab a free t-shirt. For info and to sign up, contact Suzzanne Cromwell at 978-674-1483 or firstname.lastname@example.com.
- NATURAL WONDERS: Naturalist photographer and caterpillar expert Sam Jaffe brings his extensive collection of live caterpillars to the Discovery Museums, Main Street, Acton, on Saturday, July 27. Visitors will see dozens of species native to Massachusetts in open-air displays and use digital microscopes to examine them close-up. The youngest visitors will participate in caterpillar-themed arts and crafts projects. Jaffe will also share his photography. Jaffe's goal is to show people that they don't need to look very far to find the beauty of nature. Indeed, it is all around, even under our feet and in our daily lives. The Cool Incredible Caterpillars program with Jaffe is open 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and is free with admission. Visit www.discoverymuseums.org for info.
- HIPPIE FUN: The Museum of Fine Arts Boston revisits fashions from the '60s and '70s with its show Hippie Chic, running July 16-Nov. 11. Featuring an array of ensembles from that era, it traces the revolutionary impact that the hippie movement had on fashion of that time. The emerging culture of the time period rejected the dictates of Paris haute couture and adopted an eclectic, individual look that mixed vintage and ethnic clothing with fashions inspired by psychedelic pop art, nature and fantasy. Trends percolated from the streets and affected ready to wear and haute couture. The exhibit showcases young talents and boutiques of that era and features 50 ensembles, from the museum's collection and on loan from other institutions. Visit www.mfa.org for info on the exhibit and special events being presented in connection with it.
Nancye Tuttle's email is firstname.lastname@example.com.


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Former Bulls flank CJ Stander has committed to a long-term goal of playing Test rugby for Ireland by signing a two-year contract extension with Munster that will see them stay with the province until June 2016.
Stander joined Munster in October 2012 from Super Rugby side the Bulls and made his debut as a substitute against Scarlets that November at Musgrave Park.
A week later, the powerful back row unit scored two tries on his first league start against Glasgow Warriors at Thomond Park.
The 23-year-old South African made his European Cup debut against Edinburgh in October 2013 in Murrayfield, and to date he has played 22 times for Munster, scoring six tries.
Duncan Casey also agreed a two-year contract extension. The Cork man is a product of the Munster Academy and is currently contracted as a development hooker.
The 23-year-old will move to a full senior contract at the end of this season on the back of impressive breakthrough performances this year.
He made his debut off the bench against Perpignan in the European Cup at Thomond Park in December and then made his first start against Scarlets in the league at Musgrave Park two weeks later. He has made three further appearances off the bench so far this season.
Commenting on the confirmed signings, head coach Rob Penney said, "We've had a really positive start to 2014 with players committing their future to Munster and I believe this spurs the younger lads on, knowing what is ahead of them and who will be leading the way.
"We are extremely pleased with CJ's progress, it's great that he has recommitted to Munster and that he believes this is the best place for his development.
"Similarly for Duncan, it bodes well for the future, and his progression is another example of the hard work that is being carried out at grassroots level."
Source: Rugby365


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The Ravens eventually must decide whether to apply the non-exclusive franchise tag (at $14.6 million for 2013) or the exclusive franchise tag (at, under current calculations, more than $20 million for 2013) to quarterback Joe Flacco, unless the two sides can work out a new contract.
Under the former, another team could pilfer the Super Bowl MVP, giving the Ravens two first-round picks as compensation if Baltimore can't or won't match an offer sheet signed by Flacco. Under the latter, Flacco can't talk to any other team.
As explained by Albert Breer of NFL Network, the rules give the Ravens a way to soften the cap blow from using the pricier level of the tag. If the Ravens opt to go "exclusive" with Flacco, the cap number will remain at $14.6 million through April 19. At that point, it will become the average of the five highest quarterback cap numbers for 2013.
Nearly two weeks ago, we listed the five highest 2013 quarterback cap numbers, currently: $21.55 million for Patriots quarterback Tom Brady, $20.82 million for Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford, $20.35 million for Giants quarterback Eli Manning, $20 million for Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning, and $19.6 million for Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. Restructurings or extensions would cause some of those numbers to drop, thereby dropping the average below its current level of $20.464 million.
The ability to carry Flacco on the books at $14.6 million through April 19 makes it easier for the Ravens to use the exclusive level of the tag and still transact other business. Then, if they don't have a long-term deal in place with Flacco by April 19, they'd need to be able to absorb the higher cap charge.


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The school board has decided to call a special election on February 4th to get permission to raise taxes on property owners for the next ten years. They were declined on September 10th. February 4th can be pretty blustery and blizzardlike, so I am hoping for good weather so rural residents and elderly folks will get to vote.
I think I have made it clear that I think it is a very poor way to treat citizens to do what that school board is doing. On September 10th, 2013 they asked the voters, what we wanted to do for the next ten years. Do we want to pay more and more taxes the next ten years? We declined and said no. That was our desire for the next ten years. Now, not a half a year later, and we are voting on the exact same question. It seems to me if the term we were deciding was for ten years, then it should be for ten years. If we had said yes, it would have meant yes for the next ten years, why is it that when we say no, it doesn't even mean more than 6 months, and we have to vote again? And again I ask-when they eventually get what they want, can we call a vote on it five or six months later and recall it, seems only fair since they are calling for a vote on it every six months until they get their way.
So I decided to do a little checking. To be fair, I wondered if the school is getting more children? If so, then maybe they need more money. So I went to the Iowa Department of Education and used their numbers. Interestingly, numbers are down. So then I thought maybe they have lost revenue, so I checked to see if revenues were down, and even more interesting, they are not--they are at an all time high. So we have less kids than 10 years ago and more money, yet they want to raise taxes. I have cited my sources for everyone to look at themselves and I have put it in a simple graph so that you can see clearly what I am talking about, the school board has more money than ever and the least kids they have had in at least a decade. They don't need to raise taxes. Simple math tells you that the most revenue ever, plus fewer children enrolled every year, equals bad money management and no need to raise taxes.
Article Photos
A final thought that's not too hard to imagine here in our district,-- but imagine if you will, a little old widow lady living in the house she and her late husband worked their whole life for. She has her house, maybe it's pretty nice and paid for, and a fixed income, but not a lot to spare, after all she and her husband worked hard their whole life, she ought not have to work. She has no job but no kids in the home or school-- I don't think it is at all decent to be sending her another $200.00 bill every year, on top of her current prop taxes. Especially considering enrollment in the district is down, revenue and expenditures are at all time highs, and quite frankly there is a lot of land in the district that isn't even taxed at all. If anything, maybe we need to look at some of the tax exempt land that ought to be on the tax rolls. Or maybe explore why so many kids are open enrolled. Or why South Tama is consistently considered a SINA or DINA and is well below the state's average reading and math proficiencies. The answer to that is not, we need more money.
The schools own enrollment numbers and projections-- www.edinfo.state.ia.us/web/projection11.asp
The states audit of STC- page 55 schedule 7 auditor.iowa.gov/reports/1230-6098-C00F.pdf
Adam Todd is a rural Tama farmer and pastor of the Solid rock Bible Church in Toledo.


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Well...today, MY NC State Wolfpack won over ranked FSU. UNC Tarheels won. BOTH were underdogs. and well....
Maybe there's a chance.
over by half time.
lucky to see 4 wins this season, but the great news is the thre stooges will still be here next season.(rex.tanny and suckchez)
Well...today, MY NC State Wolfpack won over ranked FSU. UNC Tarheels won. BOTH were underdogs. and well....
Maybe there's a chance.
And just imagine if the Jets don't win! Rex would have to.... uh.... you know... give the team another day off during the week. Or something.
Here is how the Jets will win this game and 8 more this season.... Sanchez gets drunk. Yep, I'm serious.
In Joe's early days he had trouble. Like all QBs he had so much info pumped into him. The stress had to be great. So he relaxed in his style. Game day he was relaxed and did what came natural.
Sanchez is no diff. He has not only the usual playbook info pumped in him plus player issues, etc., he has the NY media.
Mark- Just relax. Get drunk if that works. Heck with NY media and especially the NY fans (who are worse than the media).
He did great when not much was expected. This young kid has too much on him.
Whats he going to do? Tell the truth, he sucks!!
My heart says I hope the jets win, My gut says jets get embarressed.
Only chance we have is if Texans are caught looking ahead to the Packers an/or take us lightly. They would need to give a very flat performance for this to be a competitive game. It's always possible in this league, but the odds say the Texans win big. Even if we can keep it close, all it takes is one JJ Watt jailbreak to the QB or Joseph jumping a route and a close game can get out of hand quick. Their D has a great chance to score tonight and no way we win if that happens. We aren't good enough to overcome that.


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Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Dollars and Sense
Take a look at Jack Moore's recent post about Adam LaRoche, or Matt Klaassen's on the Holliday deal. Both stories have something to do with the Giants. Both make you think about transactions with an eye toward value. The San Francisco Sabeans are the poster child for bad deals, as we know. Who does their analysis? There seems to be no end of smart guys out there in cyberspace doing first-rate work. Do we employ these fellows? And if we don't--why don't we? I have to think we'd make better use of our dollars if we did.
Then again, we got some amazing value over the last two years out of Tim Lincecum for about a million bucks. Maybe I'm being too hard on The Three Stooges (Nuke, Sabes, and Baer). I suppose as long as our farm system can continue to produce talent like Jonathan Sanchez and Pablo Sandoval, we'll be OK.
2 comments:
Which makes you start to wonder even more, when you read something like this:
Buster Olney of ESPN is reporting that Adam LaRoche turned down a two-year $17 million offer from the Orange and Black."
Should we ever, in a million years, be offering a mediocre player like Adam LaRoche $8.5M per year? Is he really worth half as much as Matt Holliday? On the other hand, yet again, are we going to be left with nothing? Our supposed best option was Nick Johnson, & the Yankees, of all people, jumped in & signed him. And, for they signed him for less money than we just offered for an inferior player???
Why don't they just create a Super League for the Yankees, Red Sox, Mets, Angels, Phillies, & Cardinals? Then, the other teams could compete in relative parity in a lesser developmental league. It might be more satisfying than living under the illusion that our intention is to build a strong team.
By the way, aren't Vlad & Carlos Delgado still available? I'd rather have either of them on a 1-year $8.5M deal than Adam LaRoche on a 2-year $17M deal.
- Wed Jan 06, 11:28:00 AM PST
- M.C. O'Connor said...
I'm guessing we signed Uribe for two reasons: (1) in case Renteria has to be DFA'd or (2) to play 3B, moving Sandoval to 1B.
LaRoche is a lefty, I think that's his big appeal. His career OPS (.834) and OPS+ (116) beats every current Giant (other than Pablo), but first baseman are usually decent hitters. Last year's .843 mark puts him 19th out of 25 MLB regulars at 1B, though, beating out no. 21 at .831, Nick Johnson.
If you go for wOBA, LaRoche is 21st at .357 and Johnson is 16th at .373. LaRoche, as a 2.4 WAR player (same as Johnson), winds up in the bottom third of the same group.
LaRoche and Johnson would both be upgrades--that's the scary part.
- Wed Jan 06, 04:58:00 PM PST


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Saturday, December 17, 2011
MZone Holiday Mode
However, even during the craziness of the next couple weeks, we'll keep throwing 140-character nuggets your way on a regular basis via Twitter. So be sure to follow us @MZoneBlog. And any new material will be below this post.
Go Blue!
11 comments:
- David said...
Did anyone read MGoCook's rant about Michigan's multiple away unis? Man that guy isn't happy unless he is in full blown complaint mode.
- December 13, 2011 5:57 PM
- Dennis said...
If someone other than Yost has time, given the time of year some of your band fanatics could come up with an easy way for folks to determine if they are coming across a Salvation Army Band or The Pride of the Buckeyes, The Ohio State University Marching Band.
I agree with anyone ranting against multiple uniforms. I hate when we do, we are better than that. So are you.
- December 14, 2011 8:48 AM
- Mikoyan said...
I hated multiple uniforms when a ton of NHL teams had the third period jerseys. Although I liked the logo on the Ducks version (back when they were Mighty). I'm glad the Wings never succumbed to that craziness.
Look at the Tigers and Yankees, their home uniforms have barely changed in close to 100 years. Why mess with that?
- December 14, 2011 12:37 PM
- Ramona said...
Anyone who is super busy this week... ok I guess that's pretty much all of us... so, don't look at any pictures of what our team is going to be wearing in the Sugar Bowl. It will just ruin your day.
- December 14, 2011 10:18 PM
- Mikoyan said...
Instead of looking at those pictures...I know of a blog with some pretty nice pictures....
Hint hint....
There are some nice pictures of Detroit from earlier tonight....
- December 15, 2011 1:48 AM
- Ramona said...
You are right - MUCH nicer pics to view on the blog that is conveniently linked on the left hand side... much better way to start the day. :)
- December 15, 2011 7:22 AM
- Mikoyan said...
Thanks for stopping by. I assume that was you that left all the comments there.
And yes, I enjoyed the Empire Builder.
- December 15, 2011 10:45 AM
- phil said...
As Festivus is almost upon us I would like to take a moment to have the "Airing of Grievances" and list all the ways you all have disappointed me this year:
1. Yost, you never disappoint. How you continue to run the best website on the internet is beyond me. Well done sir. Wishing you all the best in 2012.
2. Hoke, I could have never dreamed a 10 - 2 year. You sir have also not disappointed. So glad to have you at the helm.
3. Whetstonebuck, you pussy. The minute Tressel takes a dive, you disappear. (Unless you actually ARE Tressel. OMG! Come to think of it, I never did see both of you post at the same time!)
4. To all the rest of the bloggers on here, great job. I expect to read a lot more from you in 2012.
5. To the female bloggers: Would it really hurt to post your semi-naked photos on MZone?
TO ALL: Have great Holidays. GO BLUE!!
- December 18, 2011 10:06 AM
- Ramona said...
LOL Phil!!!!
I can't speak for the other women here but it would definitely be painful posting any pics of me..healing, NOT! my hotness days are long gone!
Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas and Go Blue!
- December 18, 2011 4:39 PM
- JamesD'Troy said...
Ladies and gentlemen,
we have another nominee for 'cringeworthy moments in college football' er...ice skating...this time involving the Notre Dame band.
skip to the 1:10 mark;
- December 18, 2011 7:10 PM
- Dennis said...
They completed the pass, at least. I should mosey over to NDNation to see how much they liked it.
- December 19, 2011 8:56 AM


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Annual Event Kicks Off Week of Fashion With Two Shows on April 9
Posted 03.04.11 by mica communications
RACK: An Experimental Fashion Event presents bodies of work pushing the boundaries of fashion and costume with performance and sound for two shows on Saturday, April 9 at 6 and 9 p.m. at 2640 (St. John's Church), 2640 St. Paul St. Tickets are $5, available at the MICA Book Store; limited tickets will be sold at the door for $10.
Participating artists explore the relationship between culture and the body through originally designed and constructed garments. The annual Experimental Fashion Event is a capstone for students in MICA's experimental fashion concentration within the Fiber Department. Members of the Multi Media Event class work together for two semesters designing and crafting their own body of work, while working collaboratively to produce a live show. Students present their innovative fashion and costume designs through visually stunning live performances and projected video. The evening will involve more than 150 people-from designers to performers, roving costumed characters and musicians.
About the 2011 designers
In Fly- Girls: Remixed, Sharela Bonfield takes inspiration from MC Hammer parachute pants as well as crazy quilts, and she reappropriates found track-suits from area thrift stores to create team uniforms for modern day fly girls. Bonfield brought her vision to professional dancers who came together to choreograph a routine that commemorates the fly girls of the late '80s and early '90s. Bonfield brought her vision to professional dancers Noelle Powers & Tawni, who collaboratively developed a performance piece along with fellow dancers Meghan Hawkins, Diana Mitchell, Dellonese Issac and Chelsea Morton.
Yeji Byun's line, Fashion comes and goes, looks at the cycles in nature just as in fashion. While every spring brings new blooms, they grow from the same soil as last year's flowers. The recurring motif of the floral pattern is a starting point for Byun's work. She is creating ready-to-wear garments by combining her traditional garment constructing with a contemporary color palette and digital prints.
Maria Chaverri's Seeds of Love explores the conflict between the art object and the runway. By growing plants into garments, she hopes her work will transcend the fashion arena in attempt to give her garments longevity and create a process for personal healing.
Captain of the Knitting Team, Rachel Christensen has been wrapped up in tedious, meticulous processes from the tender age of 8. Currently Untitled explores the idea of process. Gleaning inspiration from natural and technological patterns, Christensen's garment installations reference the process of making and the surroundings in which they are made. The act of producing the garment becomes more important than the finished clothing.
Jacob Whayne Dillow is fascinated with the power dynamic between the Believer and the Believed. They exist in a symbiotic relationship, dependent upon one another. What happens when a higher power is no longer believed in? Is there an afterlife for divinities? In Dillow's Apocryphal, the corporation, Orpheus Initiative, seeks to discover the physical afterlife in all its forms. During one expedition, a caver comes across a purgatory-like space where Christian saints who have been deemed apocryphal, invented, or completely forgotten reside.
In Steel Magnolias, Ginny Duncan seeks to communicate the idea that being feminine and being a strong, capable individual is not mutually exclusive. She references women's clothing styles from various cultures and historical periods that previously hindered and constricted women. In her collection, Duncan reinvents these as ways to give more power to the feminine presence. The garments allow the wearer to be active, retaining references to utilitarian work clothes and decorative women's clothing.
Kyle England's Material systems investigates the lines between art, religion and the occult through the meditative process of spectatorship utilizing the visual language contained within a garment. Material systems is an attempt to utilize and contextualize the overflow of devalued and discarded mass produced material.
Through examination of her family history, Mika Eubanks creates a body of work, Remembering the Future, that explores the importance of preserving the memory of oral traditions, stories and knowledge passed down through generations. Using textile imagery and hand dying techniques, Eubanks creates transformative performance garments. These function as mnemonic devices for various stories and oral traditions told to Eubanks as a child by members of my family. The garments function as wearable art, used in daily activities and sharing rituals, preserving those stories and traditions for future generations in a new and innovative way.
Sarah Ivancic's Monstrosities is inspired by a comment made in jest that a fashion collection be based upon dinosaurs. The concept took hold, presenting Ivancic with a motivating design challenge. The costumes enabled an exploration of textile techniques, such as surface design to create dinosaur inspired prints and textures. The conceptual challenge for Ivancic was to develop characters that represent ideas around feminine strength and power, through costume and clothing. What emerges is the flirtatious, lady dinosaur both terrifying and tantalizing.
Ballet and fashion have always made a great couple, both forms of art, both built on drama and beauty, with jaw dropping pieces of clothing at their center. Ballerinas evoke elegance, sophistication, athleticism, beauty, fragility, strength and sensuality but Soyoung Park's collection, Ballerina-meets-punk, can be described as playful, colorful and cheerful. The work of Oskar Schlemmer, a German painter, sculptor, choreographer and stage designer, inspires the collection.
Matt Reading's Smart Textile Circus is a carnival-like extravaganza of costumed performers and performative textiles, celebrating exuberance and engineering. His work is directed by an interest in craft traditions, such as crochet, costume and electronics.
Molly Roberts' Sprightly is a line of ready-to-wear garments created with the fashion-forward youth in mind. The collection consists of pieces intended to be versatile and unique--many pieces are crafted of one-of-a-kind, hand-dyed fabrics. Each garment evokes a sense of burgeoning energy and carries with it the feeling of spring.
Katharine Weintraub's collection explores the idea of people becoming consumed and defined by their ailments. Baffled by her own hypochondria and her family's reverence for medical professionals, she attempts to flesh out the relationships between doctors, patients and their conditions.
The title of Nolla Yuan's 2011 womenswear collection, Make Friends with UFOs: Unfinished Objects, is inspired by the fact that no philosophical idea is ever completely finished, thus even the finished objects still have infinite possibilities. Yuan dyes silk using colors extracted from a plant, fruit or vegetable and laser cuts lace patterns into leather. She combines this idea of going back to the past to nature with technological advancements by embellishing el wires into the garments, so they glow in the dark.
Graphic design assistance provided by Brianna Antonaccio for the second year in a row. She closely relates her work to fashion and is glad to develop her interests and skills as a graphic designer through this collaborative process.


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DALLAS — With 15 hours remaining before the NBA trade deadline at 3 p.m. Thursday, J.J. Redick said he still had no idea whether or not the Orlando Magic would send him to another team.
And it also sounds like he wouldn't be heartbroken if the Magic send him to a title contender.
Asked specifically if he wants to remain with the team through the end of the season, he sighed and said, "There's just too many variables to say that. There's just too many variables. The shortest way to answer that is I wouldn't be disappointed if I end up going to a team that is playing for a championship if that were to happen. Look, if any player is in this situation and they're on a team that's one of the five or six teams in the league that have one of the worst records and they go to a contender, it's not a bad thing.
"If I were to stay here, though, it'd be great."
Would he consider re-signing long-term with the Magic, who are clearly in a rebuilding period and have now lost 26 of their last 29 games?
"I haven't thought about the long-term, to be honest with you," he said. "This whole season has been about trying to get better as a player and trying to put myself in a position for the deadline to be healthy and to be playing well, to be helping my team. And if I come back, I come back. If I get traded, I get traded. I'll be the same guy. I'll worry about the long-term after the season."
He said he and the Magic have not discussed whether he wants to stay in Orlando after this season.
"There's been no commitment either way from them or from me," he said. "I think both sides are open to the idea. But, again, it's out of my control. That's a question more suited to them. They'll have to make a decision in July."
Magic officials are not commenting about their plans.
The uncertainty about Redick's long-term future is one reason why the Magic might not want to keep him beyond the deadline. Why risk not getting assets in return for a player who could go elsewhere if he gets a better offer in free agency?
It's also one reason why teams might not be willing to give away attractive assets for Redick.
Why would a prospective trade partner give away, say, a first-round pick or a young player with upside for someone who might be a three-month rental?
Redick took issue with a Yahoo! Sports report that said his agent, Arn Tellem, would seek to secure a $10 million annual salary when Redick becomes an unrestricted free agent in July.
But Redick also acknowledged that for him, the 15-month-old collective bargaining agreement will make it difficult for him and others on the free-agent market.
The luxury tax penalties that soon will go into effect already are making teams skittish about devoting substantial salaries to non-superstars.
"It can hurt a guy like me," Redick said. "Not just for me, but for free agents this summer, there's a lot of teams with a lot of cap room. You think it every summer: 'Teams aren't going to spend, teams aren't going to spend.' But teams have to spend. It's in the CBA: They have to spend.
"The issue is about what options you have. Can you go to a team that you think has got a chance to win a championship or are they not willing to go into the tax? Are they not willing to pay the repeater tax? Whatever it may be that a team is facing in their financial situation. I'm not speaking about myself; for any free agent, those options are cut off.
"The most valuable players right now are productive players on rookie contracts."
For certain, Redick is eager for all the speculation to end.
For the last two days, friends have been sending him all kinds of rumors.
One joker even suggested that the Magic had reached a three-way deal that would send him to Major League Baseball's Cincinnati Reds to play second base and the NFL's Baltimore Ravens' Joe Flacco to the Magic in a sign-and-trade.
"It just comes with the territory, I guess," Redick said. "But it's for the birds, though."
Josh Robbins covers the Orlando Magic and the NBA for the Orlando Sentinel. You can reach him via e-mail at email@example.com and connect with him on Facebook at facebook.com/JoshuaBRobbins. Follow him on Twitter at @JoshuaBRobbins.


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Earls Court Exhibition Centre will now definitely be demolished. In The Rockwell's opinion this will have a very negative impact on the locality. Many businesses depend on the constant stream of visitors to the area who attend the exhibitions. The new development of luxury flats should not have been approved and will exist in isolation to the rest of the community.
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