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Respond consortium making maps out of satellite images to support Pakistan disaster relief
European and international aid agencies responding to the South Asia Earthquake have been supported by rapidly-produced crisis and damage maps based on satellite images.
Now, with the race on to deliver food and shelter to three million people left homeless before the onset of winter, this detailed geographical information provided by the ESA's backed Respond consortium remains vital to humanitarian relief efforts.
At a meeting in Geneva on Thursday held by the United Nations for Ministers of major donor countries for South Asia Earthquake relief efforts, UN Secretary General Kofi Annan and UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Jan Egeland both received sets of maps produced for the disaster relief agencies by Respond, a consortium of European and international organisations combined with industry that works with the humanitarian aid community to improve access to maps, satellite images and geo-information.
The earthquake that struck the Kashmir region on 8 October measured 7.6 on the Richter scale. Its epicentre was near the city of Muzaffarabad, 138 kilometres from the Pakistani capital Islamabad, but the damage done extends into northwest India as well as Afghanistan. More than ten aftershocks – their magnitudes ranging from 5.2 to 6.3 – have since rocked the mountainous region.
The scale of disaster swiftly led to three activations of the International Charter on Space and Major Disasters by the French Civil Protection Agency (DDSC) and the UN Office of Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) as well as the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). The Charter prioritises the acquisition of satellite data over disaster areas in support of relief efforts.
The task of satisfying the first two Charter activations was assigned to Respond. In the earthquake's aftermath, crisis mapping was carried out as a joint effort by Respond partners the Center for Satellite Based Crisis Information of the German Aerospace Center and the Rapid Disaster Mapping Service of SERTIT based in France, along with the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (EC-JRC), Infoterra UK and UNOSAT – provider of satellite data for UN agencies who oversaw mapping job management for the activations.
"From the time the Charter was activated we worked closely with the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA), which was the head UN agency for this operation," explains Einar Bjorgo of UNOSAT. "We receive requests from end users, including the UN agencies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and also government representatives, which we discuss with our Respond partners, then decide who produces what maps based on the needs expressed."
The first maps of the affected region were produced using archived satellite data within 24 hours of the disaster. They were made available to search and rescue teams directly in the field the following day via the NGO Télécoms Sans Frontières who were on the scene to set up a satellite-based communications infrastructure so the maps could be downloaded for printing and distribution.
Both Charter data and available commercial imagery were used by Respond in order to provide as much timely information as possible over the different areas affected. Thanks to mapping specialists at EC-JRC, metric-resolution imagery was provided to the NGO MapAction, whose field crews have also been critical in returning on-site GPS data and combining local geographical information that could be added to Respond products.
To date Respond has now delivered more than 40 crisis and damage maps with various coverage and scales. The partners say this is their busiest incident since the Tsunami Disaster of December 2004. As well as pre-earthquake background maps they include before-and-after scenarios to show the extent of damage to population centres and the effects of landslides on the road network.
"The first need was to obtain an overview of the situation," says Kader Fellah of SERTIT which produced, on a 24/7 basis, 18 damage mapping products over the last three weeks. "One vital point is to know the state of road access because in the mountainous terrain it is really quite difficult to travel by car: a team can drive for most of a day to a distant village and find themselves blocked by a landslide.
"Up-to-date mapping of roads and buildings, showing houses both within villages and dispersed in the countryside creates a very good product for carrying out rescue missions. Furthermore, damage maps derived from optical imagery have been very useful in charting landslide impacts. The French Civil Protection Agency has told SERTIT how useful these have been at headquarters level and in the field".
The South Asia Earthquake maps are accessible for use by a wide range of official users including United Nations agencies, civil protection authorities, governmental relief organisations such as the German THW (Technisches Hilfswerk), and NGOs – including the German and Norwegian Red Cross Societies - with a large take-up from teams at work in the field.
Around 54 000 people have been killed in Pakistan and India, and up to three million survivors of ruined towns and villages have been left homeless across this mountainous region, with winter due to begin by the start of December. Three weeks after the earthquake, production of crisis maps has just finished, but maps supporting relief recovery and reconstruction efforts are still being made.
"Respond maps have a multitude of different uses," explains Stefan Voigt of DLR-ZKI. "These are areas the initial teams performing search and rescue may know nothing about in advance of going there, so there is a basic orientation function.
"In addition, headquarters needs a way to work meaningfully with the people on the ground, and the maps are a way to do this. They may have seen pictures taken from the scene or even from a helicopter, but the maps give a bird's eye view and a greater understanding of the context in-situ: here is the football stadium that was mentioned, there is the school that has fallen down.
"Such an overview helps to plan response activities. In terms of logistics that means how we can get to a given place – seeing what the roads are like, perhaps whether a bridge is still there. The maps can also be used for detailed damage assessment, helping to put numbers to the destruction so donors can visualise its scale and set priorities."
The Charter and Respond
The International Charter on Space and Major Disasters is a joint effort by space agencies worldwide to put space technology at the service of rescue authorities in the event of a major disaster. Each member agency has demonstrated its commitment to using space technology to serve humankind when it is most in need of assistance—when disasters of both natural and human origin strike the world's communities or wreak havoc on the environment.
Following the UNISPACE III conference held in Vienna, Austria in July 1999, the European and French space agencies (ESA and CNES) initiated the Charter with the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) signing it on 20 October 2000. Other members include the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Argentine Space Agency (CONAE) and the Japan Aerospace Exploitation Agency (JAXA).
Respond has been established as part of the pilot services of Global Monitoring for Environment and Security (GMES), a joint initiative between ESA and the European Union to build a global monitoring capability in support of Europe's environmental and sustainable development goals. Respond is an alliance of European and international organisations with industry working with the humanitarian aid community to improve access to geographic information.


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In this article, I will introduce the reader to the different rendering components in Unity. I will introduce the Camera component as well as the different lighting components that are available. I will also talk about materials in Unity and introduce you to a few of the shaders that are available. And finally, I will also introduce light-mapping in Unity.
If you haven't used Unity before, you can refer to my previous article titled "Introduction to Unity" available here: https://www.3dgep.com/?p=3246.

subset: commoncrawl


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Why The Denver Post is dropping the term 'illegal immigrant,' except in essential quotes
During the past decade I have had several conversations with groups and individuals that eventually landed on use of the term illegal immigrant to describe those who have unlawfully come to the United States. I have heard all kinds of arguments. I always tensed up when someone argued illegal immigrant was the same as racial epithets used to describe blacks and Jews. I still believe those comparisons are wrongheaded. But other examples stayed with me. I remember once being told that a young girl cried upon seeing a relative described as an illegal immigrant.
Yesterday, I decided The Denver Post will no longer use the term "illegal immigrant" when describing a person in the country unlawfully. If we know the actual circumstances we will describe them. The word "illegal" will not be applied to a person, only an action.
We began discussing this issue about a month ago after The Associated Press changed its policy. The AP's action followed a number of other news organizations, such as NBC News, that had long abandoned the use of "illegal immigrant." A cross section of staff was invited to discuss their views, and then we reviewed the usage in our own news organization. There were not many instances outside of quotations where we described a person as an illegal immigrant, and even rarer in a headline. Why? Because we generally don't know a person's status and it is not our practice to ask.
News organizations use their "stylebooks" to govern use of language in stories. Consistency in usage helps with clarity, authority and matters of taste in our writing. The Associated Press Stylebook is the foundation of our style, though there are many instances where we part ways with the AP to tailor our writing to our communities. Here is our entry:


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Comex 2013 is currently taking place at Singapore Expo. The show is on from the 5th to the 8th of September, and is open from 12 noon to 9pm. One of Singapore's longest running tech shows, Comex 2013 will feature more than 800 exhibitors and cover over 350,000 square-feet of exhibitions space with products ranging from notebooks and tablets to televisions, automotive accessories and more. As usual, admission is free!
There will be a ton of products at the show, so in this handy buying guide we'll be giving you tips and tricks on what to look for in a great product. Whether you're buying a new broadband plan or a new GPS device, here's what you need to know before you buy your next gadget. But before we begin, here's a video highlight of the top 10 gadgets from the show floor:-
For more on Comex 2013, including maps, brochures and Twitter updates, click on through to our Comex portal.
Here are some highlighted broadband plan deals at Comex this year.
200Mbps fibre home broadband for just $39/month
Comex 2013 Offer
M1 - Hall 5, Booth 5721
Up to 150Mbps download and 75Mbps upload speeds with more bandwidth for more users streaming HD video.
Comex 2013 Offer
MyRepublic - Hall 5, Booth 5215
StarHub 200Mbps Fibre Home BroadbandTop up an extra $32/month and get a Toshiba Satellite U40t Notebook worth $1479 or top up $40/month and get a Lenovo U430p notebook worth $1599.
Comex 2013 Offer
StarHub - Hall 6, Booth 6701
Comex 2013 Offer
ViewQwest - Hall 6, Booth 6621
SingTel 200Mbps Fibre Broadband
SingTel's 150mbps fibre plan has been boosted to 200mbps for the same affordable price!
Top up $80/month and get a Razer Blade 14-inch gaming notebook worth $2599.90
Comex 2013 Offer
SingTel - Hall 5, Booth 5118
Consumers now have more choice than ever for their internet needs, with a host of new companies like MyRepublic joining the big three Telcos. If you're thinking about signing up for a new plan, tech shows are often the best place to do it as the freebies and extras tend to be better than at other times of the year.
Broadband plans in Singapore fall into three categories: Cable broadband, ADSL broadband, and Fiber broadband.
Cable broadband delivers high-speed Internet access via coaxial cables and a cable termination point. Plans are available from StarHub, M1, Pacnet, and NTT Communications offering speeds of between 3Mbps to 15Mbps. An advantage of cable broadband is that the quality of your connection is not dependent on your proximity to your ISP (whereas ADSL is). However, unlike ADSL, which runs on a dedicated line, cable connections are shared with others in your HDB or condo block, which can affect your download speeds.
|ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) broadband delivers high-speed Internet access via your existing telephone line. Plans are available from SingTel, M1, and Pacnet offering speeds of between 1.5Mbps to 15Mbps. One disadvantage of ADSL broadband is that your connection is linked to a fixed telephone line, so switching residence can be troublesome and will result in loss of service for a few days. On the other hand, unlike cable broadband, your ADSL connection is not affected by other users in your area.
|Fiber broadband uses fiber optic cables to deliver Internet speeds far higher than both Cable and ADSL broadband. Plans are available from SingTel, StarHub, M1, MyRepublic, and ViewQwest ranging from 50mbps up to a mind-boggling 1Gbps. Fiber optic broadband requires a fiber optic termination point to be installed by network infrastructure provider, OpenNet.
Can I get Fiber broadband? Starting in 2010, network infrastructure providers OpenNet offered a one-time free installation of the fibre network termination point to all residences in Singapore. If you missed this offer, you'll need to book an appointment to have the TP installed, which will cost between $220-$450, although some ISPs offer to pay the installation charge for you if you sign up with them. As of 2013, over 95% of Singapore is fiber-ready. To check if your area is eligible for installation click here.
What router do I need for ADSL/Cable/Fiber? Any network router (wired or wireless) should be compatible with the modem your service provider gives you. However, it's a lot more tricky if you want to replace the modem that your service provider gives you. Not sure how to choose a router? Check out our networking buying guide.
What is International bandwidth/download speed? Some plans advertise different speeds for local and international downloads. Your local download speed will be applicable for sites hosted in Singapore (e.g. SingTel, locally hosted gaming servers), whereas international sites such a server in the US will subject to the international download speeds.
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In the general population, anal cancer is a rare disease. Few people knew about it before Farrah Fawcett made public her struggle with the illness. Among men who have sex with men (MSM), and especially HIV-positive MSM, the incidence of anal cancer is significantly more prevalent and increasing annually.1 However, the majority of gay and bisexual men know little about the disease, have never been tested for it, nor know that screening tests exit. Health care professionals, too, remain divided on how and whether to screen for it. In fact, a standardized screening protocol for anal cancer does not yet exist.
HIV-positive MSM are 40 times more likely to be diagnosed with anal cancer.
Each year anal cancer is diagnosed in about two people out of every 100,000 people in the general population. HIV negative MSM are 20 times more likely to be diagnosed with anal cancer. Their rate is about 40 cases per 100,000. HIV-positive MSM are up to 40 times more likely to be diagnosed with the disease, resulting in a rate of 80 anal cancer cases per 100,000 people.
Anal cancer is caused by the same strains of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) that cause cervical cancer in women. HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection.2 There are over 100 different types of HPV, although only several strains are believed to increase the risk of cancer. Approximately 75% of all sexually active adults acquire HPV, often within the course of early adulthood and without any symptoms.3 Among MSM, it is transmitted through both protected and unprotected anal intercourse, and through skin-to-skin contact. Among heterosexual women, the vast majority of infections are cleared naturally by the body within a few years, usually by age 30. This appears to be less true for MSM, where the infections are often still present in later adulthood.2
Anal HPV is present in approximately 65% of HIV negative MSM and 95% of MSM who are HIV positive. Although HAART (highly active antiretroviral therapy) has decreased overall mortality from HIV, it has not reduced the incidence of anal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).4 And, since it is spread through sexual skin-to-skin contact, condom use only partially reduces the risk of transmission. Other factors that increase the risk of anal cancer include a high number of sex partners, and use of alcohol, drugs and tobacco. Although many men have no obvious symptoms, one of the most common manifestations of HPV infection is genital warts which can affect the anus, the penis and/or the peritoneum, a large membrane in the abdominal cavity that connects and supports internal organs. Other possible symptoms are abnormal discharge from the anus, bleeding from the rectum and anus, anal itching, pain or pressure around the anus, and anal sores that do not heal.5
Cancer of the anus, like that of the cervix, develops slowly, beginning with minor cell changes. For women, a simple pap smear is used to detect these cell changes in the cervix in their early stages. With regular screening and proper treatment, cervical cancer can be prevented. In fact, since cervical pap smears have become a routine part of women's health care, cervical cancer rates have dropped dramatically, from rates that once resembled HIV-positive MSM anal cancer rates (80 per 100,000) to the current rate of approximately two per 100,000.
The anus and the cervix are biologically similar and both are target chambers for HPV infection.1,2 The same screening methodology (pap smear) can be used to test the anus for cancer and pre-cancerous cell changes. A growing number of gay physicians and health activists now believe that routine screening, using an anal pap smear, could reduce the incidence of anal cancer as dramatically as it has cervical cancer in women. They recommend that all MSM, especially those who are HIV-positive, be tested every one to three years, depending on their immunological well-being and CD4 count. For an HIV-positive gay man with a CD4 of over 500, it is recommended to repeat the test every 2 years. For an HIV-positive individual with a CD4 of fewer than 500, the recommendation is to repeat the test once a year. They suggest that HIV-negative individuals be tested every three years. Still, there are some clinicians who are not convinced that routine screening of all MSM is warranted. They cite the small number of positive cases, the shortage of facilities for follow-up procedures, and the fear, cost and pain involved in pursuing small cell changes, called dysplasias. In addition, most health insurance policies do not cover anal pap smears.
Recently, the relationship between HPV, anal cancer and HIV has received more research and media attention. The direct link between cervical cancer and HPV has been known for some time, and gynecologists typically perform a simple HPV test along with the cervical pap smear. That test is not able to categorize the exact strain of HPV that women carry. The FDA recently approved a new DNA test that identifies the two HPV strains (types 16, 18) responsible for most cervical cancers. At the moment, the new DNA test, called Cervista HPV 16/18, is not available in doctors' offices, but should start arriving within the next few months. In MSM, a clear relationship has not yet been determined between a high DNA HPV load and the cell changes that lead to anal cancer, but if confirmed, this test will become more widely used in the future. Then, only those with dangerous strains of HPV would require regular follow up screening with an anal pap smear.
HPV enhances susceptibility to HIV infection.
Current research from the Fred Hutchison Cancer Research Center in Seattle, WA has found that, not only does HIV infection increase the risk of HPV infection, but that the converse is also true: HPV enhances susceptibility to HIV infection.6 This occurs because anal HPV lesions make the surface tissue of the anus thinner and more vulnerable to entry of the HIV virus. In addition, the immune cells activated by HPV infection are precisely the ones more vulnerable to HIV infection. These data underscore the value of HPV screening for all MSM.
The best form of prevention for anal cancer may be a vaccination against HPV infection. Currently, Gardasil by Merck has been approved as a prophylaxis against HPV and cervical cancer for girls between the ages of nine and 26. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is considering its use in boys, ages nine to 26 also, based on preliminary research showing that it was effective for them as well. The large study included 500 self-identified gay men. While that will prevent boys from developing anal cancer later in their lives, it is unclear how Gardasil may help adult MSM over 26 years old, HIV-positive men and those already infected with HPV. Gardasil and its competitor, Cervarix, by GlaxoSmithKline, are both expensive, between $360 and $500 for the three injections required. It is unclear if they will be covered by health insurance for adults who choose to be vaccinated.
There are some practitioners advocating Gardasil for use in MSM who have already been infected with HIV and/or HPV. This would be considered an "off label" use. The National Institutes of Health is conducting a clinical trial to see what benefits Gardasil might have for HIV-positive people. A number of men, both HIV-positive and negative, have opted to get vaccinated despite the fact Gardasil is not yet FDA-approved for use in men. This is considered an "off-label use" of the vaccine.7
Anal cancer is an increasing health threat to MSM, especially those who are HIV-positive, and there is no professional consensus about whether to vaccinate against it, screen for cell changes, or how to treat positive results on an anal pap smear. More research is needed and both the consumer and provider communities need to be educated.
It is critical that MSM talk to their medical providers about their sexual orientation, HIV status and sexual practices. The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene found that nearly 40% of MSM do not come out to their provider.8 Those who are open about their sexual orientation often do not know enough about anal cancer to request a screening. The gay community must be educated, both HIV negative and HIV positive MSM, about HPV, anal cancer risk factors and the options available for screening and treatment. Then individuals can make informed decisions about whether to be screened and seek out a provider who is familiar with the options.
Liz Margolies, L.C.S.W., is Executive Director of the National LGBT Cancer Network. Bill Goeren, L.C.S.W., is the Senior Clinical Supervisor at CancerCare. To view references, go to www.gmhc.org/ti.html.
Palefsky, J. et al. "Update on HPV: Beyond Cervical Cancer." Sexuality, Reproduction and Menopause, Webcast from the ASRM Annual Meeting. www.srm-ejournal.com/srm.asp?id=7284. Accessed June 24, 2009.
Bratcher, J.et al. "Anogenital Human Papillomavirus Coinfection and Associated Neoplasia in HIV-Positive Men and Women" The PRN Notebook 13. (2008.)
Koutsky L. et al. "Epidemiology of Genital Human Papillomavirus. Infection." Epidemiologic Reviews 10(1), 122-163. (1988.)
Goldstone, S. et. al., "Hybrind Capture II Detection of Oncogenic Human Papillomavirus: A Useful Tool When Evaluating Men Who Have Sex with Men with Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance on Anal Cytology" Disease of the Colon and Rectum 51(7), 1130-1136. (2008.)
Cichock, Mark, RN, "The Dangers of Anal Cancer -- The Silent Killer in Men with HIV" University of Michigan HIV/AIDS Treatment Program, Dec, 2008.
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. "Cancer-causing virus may increase HIV infection." http://fhcrc.org/about/pubs/center_news/online/2009/05/HIV_study.html. Accessed June 24, 2009.
The Body. "Ask the experts about Fatigue and Anemia -- Gay Men access to Gardasil?" www.thebody.com/Forums/AIDS/Fatigue/Archive/Help/Q191583.html. Accessed June 24, 2009.
New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. "Health Department study shows doctors are often in the dark about patient's sexual behavior." Press Release www.nyc.gov/html/doh/html/pr2008/pr052-08.shtml. Accessed June 24, 2009.
Want to read more articles in the September 2009 issue of GMHC Treatment Issues_? Click here._


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We have temporarily closed all Denver Botanic Gardens locations. Denver Botanic Gardens' response to COVID-19
Kundalini Yoga - Single Session
Kundalini yoga focuses on awakening energy and unlocking our inner potential through breathing techniques, movements, stretching, meditation and mantra. This ancient and sacred practice is the oldest form of yoga and is an effective way to recharge and heal the body.
The class, based on the Kundalini principals of Yogi Bhajan, Ph.D., Master of Kundalini yoga, starts and ends with beautiful and ancient chants which open and calm the heart. A carefully planned sequence of postures, movements and breathing exercises, called a kriya, follows. The techniques stimulate the nervous and immune systems, while improving strength and flexibility. Participants may find a peace of mind and experience benefits including relief from back pain, stress, addiction, depression, insomnia and weight control.
For more information on Instructor Chris Anne Coviello please visit www.chrisannecoviello.com
Price: $10, $8 member
Instructor: Chris Anne Coviello
Skill level: All levels welcome, no experience required.
Special Instructions: Each session is unique; we recommend that you try at least two or three sessions. Please bring water and a yoga mat. If you have trouble sitting on the floor for extended periods of time, please bring a blanket and pillows to provide comfort. Please register online in advance of class.
Class is located in Morrison Center which is on the North side of Children's Garden. The gate for entry is near the corner of 11th and York Street. This location is across the street from the main garden entry.


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Experience a world away, right around the corner at Toppers Spa/Salon at Dover Downs Hotel & Casino®, a serene, Balinese-inspired sanctuary. Toppers Spa/Salon offers a haven to relax the body and rest the mind for an hour or for an entire day.
Regarded as one of the richest spa cultures in the world, the Indonesian paradise of Bali naturally invites a sense of relaxation and restoration. Toppers Spa/Salon offers a similar escape from everyday stresses in its own lush spa oasis, reminiscent of the stunning island beauty and healing spirit of Bali.
Reduce stress and soothe muscle tension in peaceful massage therapy rooms with tranquil music, aromatic essential oils and the healing hands of certified massage therapists. Experience rejuvenating skincare and body treatments by licensed estheticians designed to elevate the senses, pamper the body and create a glowing complexion. Exceptional hairstylists, nail designers and makeup consultants will leave you with renewed confidence, feeling radiant and looking polished from head to toe.
Happy SPAlidays!
Gift cards available for perfectly paired Spa Experiences or for any denomination you choose!
- Save $30.00 on any Massage, Facial or Body Treatment (excludes Xpress services)
- Save $20.00 on any Manicure and Pedicure
- Save $15.00 on a Haircut and Style or Blow dry and Style
Spa Packages
Whatever your needs are — whatever it takes to soothe your body and relax your mind — you will find the peace you deserve at Toppers Spa/Salon at Dover Downs Hotel & Casino. We offer our guests the following spa packages:
- The Classic Day: There is no better way to pamper yourself than with the Classic Day spa package, one of our most luxurious options. Begin with an Essential Massage, followed by a European Facial, Signature Manicure and Pedicure followed by full hair and makeup styling. This indulgent retreat includes lunch — you will even receive a gift package to take home including an eye pillow, aromatherapy candle and spa bath collection.
- The Grand Escape: A combination of all of our hot stone treatments, the Grand Escape includes a massage, facial and manicure/pedicure. Treat yourself to this indulgence and receive an aromatherapy neck warmer to take home.
- Destination Relaxation: This restorative package is the perfect way to unwind after a hard week or anytime you could use some pampering. Treatments include an Essential Massage, European Facial and Signature Manicure/Pedicure, the perfect combination to soothe and relax.
- The Gentleman's Excursion: Even the manliest man will enjoy the indulgences of the Gentleman's Excursion. Specially designed to address a man's needs, the Gentleman's Excursion includes a deep tissue massage, facial, manicure and pedicure to rejuvenate the body.
- Those Were the Days!: This restorative package focuses on reversing the effects of aging with a Cellulite Contour treatment, Radiance Facial with Neck and Decollete Rescue, and special Turn Back Time manicure.
- A World Away … Body Rejuvenation: Transport yourself to another world with this immersive package that combines aromatherapy and Swedish massage with our exclusive rejuvenating beauty treatments.
- The Perfect Getaway: Relive your last great vacation with the Perfect Getaway. This package includes an Essential Massage, European Facial and our Hand Paraffin Rescue, followed by a Spa lunch. Ideal for two, Perfect Getaway is a great opportunity to treat a friend or reconnect with a loved one.
- The Quiet Retreat: The Quiet Retreat package is the ultimate sanctuary for anyone who craves a little peace in their lives. Featuring an Essential Massage and European facial, there is no better way to enjoy some time away from a busy and hectic life.
Make your appointment NOW to pamper yourself at Toppers Spa/Salon located on the second floor of Dover Downs Hotel & Casino.
Whether you are a veteran spa enthusiast or a first time guest, Toppers Spa/Salon promises a superior, nurturing spa experience you will not soon forget.
PLUS, receive FREE Valet Parking with Toppers Spa/Salon validation. Bring your valet ticket to Toppers Spa/Salon for validation in order to receive FREE valet parking.
Call 302-857-2020 to make your reservation today! For more information visit Toppers Spa/Salon online at ToppersSpa.com.
New! Passport Membership
A Toppers Spa/ Salon Passport makes it easier and more affordable to escape to a world away, right around the corner - MORE OFTEN. As a Passport member, you will enjoy exclusive VIP discounted pricing on Toppers Spa/Salon services, at all Toppers Spa/Salon locations.
In addition to exclusive VIP discounted pricing, you will also:
- Enjoy a $55 introductory offer on Swedish massage
- Experience relaxation with all the amenities - showers, lockers & plush robes
- Receive a 10% OFF regularly priced product purchases - 20% OFF Wednesdays
- Enjoy special group rates when you plan your next get together at Toppers Spa/Salon.
- Want to come early or stay late - unwind in our unparalleled relaxation lounges before or after your services.
Passport membership available for massage, facials, waxing, nailcare and haircare services.
Hours of Operation
Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday: 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Thursday & Friday: 10 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.
View our Property Map.


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This site uses cookies to ensure that you have the best experience. By continuing, we assume that you consent to receive all cookies. Find out more.
We've recently updated our Data Privacy and Protection controls that may affect your data starting May 25, 2018. Please review the new policy and provide consent here.Find out more.


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Rustoleum X1 Excellent Electrical Cleaner is a fast evaporating solvent cleaner suitable for cleaning electronics, electrical and other precession equipment. The spray is suitable for cleaning electronic and electrical components and is ideal for cleaning air tools, small compressors including: relays, switches, printed circuits and more! The spray is safe on most clear and opaque plastics and is suitable for removing light dirt from brakes, clutches and carburettors. Also, the spray can will function at any angle making hard to reach places accessible.
Fast evaporating solvent cleaner for electronics
Ensure electrical equipment is isolated and check surfaces for compatibility prior to application. Clean and remove old lubricant from components prior to application.
Coverage: 2-3m2 per 500mlTouch Dry: n/aApplication: Wide, narrow and extended spray nozzles included


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A pupdate from Truffles adopters!
Hi Jeanine,
Michael, Truffles and I wanted to wish you a merry Christmas. As we round into our 6th month with Truffles, I thought you'd enjoy a little status update (reprintable for the website, if you'd like).
When Truffles joined our family in June 2010, she was shy and quiet. Having spent several months between being homeless, a shelter dog, and a foster dog, we weren't surprised that she spent most of her time watching us trying to figure out the answer to the question "what next?" Since then, she's really come out of her shell - she loves to be a dog "about town" - whether it is going for walks, or meeting people and other dogs. She's attended Good Dog 101 to reinforce some basic commands and we're hoping to continue working on the training in the upcoming year as we work towards Canine Good Citizen.
At first, she wasn't sure about going for rides in the car, but she's become a real princess - so much so that at times she'd rather go for a ride than a walk. She loves hanging with her people - whether that's going for long rides as we run errands (all the while, watching out the windshield from the backseat), following us all around the house, or enjoying snuggle time. She's quite the snuggler - so much so that her nickname is Bug... as in Snuggle-Bug. If she's not up on the couch snuggling with us, she's usually moaning pitifully to encourage us to let her up on the couch (and it's really hard to resist her sad-dog face!).
She has several doggie friends that come to visit her, including a Yorkie, a Chihuhua, and a Pomeranian mix. She really enjoys her outings to our local pet stores (including the Bellevue All the Best where her Labrador friend, Bella, works) where she's spoiled rotten by all the people that dote on her.
Truffles enjoys playing - especially with Michael. She has a few favorite stuffed squeaky toys that she likes to have tossed for her to go fetch. When she brings them back, she'll either play her version of keep-away or, if we're not paying attention and she wants it thrown again, is quite happy to put it in your lap and leave it there so that it's clearly obvious to us that we should play some more.
Our most recent adventure was to the Humane Society to participate in Santa Paws - the pet pictures with Santa. When we walked into the entrance, there was a collective "awwww" from all of the volunteers, at which point, Truffles tail wagging went into overdrive and she proceeded to make great friends with everyone. Our favorite picture of her with Santa is attached. My tactical error was to be standing to the photographers left - which is precisely where she's looking instead of at the camera.
Truffles is the perfect name for her - as you said, she's sweet as candy and she oinks like a pig searching for truffles. At the time of writing, she's curled into a doggie ball at my feet quietly snoring away dreaming about whatever it is that doggies dream. It seems like every day one of comments to the other how lucky we are to have this sweet, quirky dog in our lives. In the short time we've had her, we've shared big adventures and are looking forward to more to come in the future.
Anne-Marie & Michael & Truffles


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Grand Garages and Storage Sheds, a Ohio Garage Builder for over 20 years, proudly covering the majority of Ohio.
At Grand Garages and Storage Sheds, Garages, Storage sheds and Pole Barns are our only business. This allows us to operate at the highest efficiency production level. Since our skilled craftsmen have our building process down to a science, it saves a lot of labor cost - a savings we can pass along to you, the customer. Most of our customers are amazed how efficiently and proficiently our garages go up.
Due to our large volume of construction, we purchase our building materials for less than a typical building contractor and pass the savings on to our customers. In many cases our standard package is the equivalent of our competitor's deluxe package, but for a lower cost. It is like offering customers a new automobile with the extras, versus just the standard automobile for the same price.
Grand Garages custom, stick-built-on-site garages provide more attention to details compared with a pre-fab building that has been preassembled and then transported to the site. Our finished products complement existing homes and landscaping.
All of the material used in our garages are reputable, known brand names. No seconds of any sort are used.
Great custom garages, stick-framed on site, this allows us total flexibility and versatility to custom build your garage in a unique way or to a unique size. We are not limited to just certain dimensions or styles. Each garage is built to suit each individual's needs, whether from a design standpoint or budget amount.
We are a local contractor you can trust. When a Grand Garage customer contracts with us they can be assured that all of our workmen are insured as well as our company. This gives our customers peace of mind in a day when so many small companies and contractors are not insured, placing the customer at a much greater risk than many realize.


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A walk! Voluntarily!
"ISN'T IT BEAUTIFUL?" you bellow at them to try and drown out the voice in your head telling you how incredibly old you are. "LOOK AT THE COLOURS!"
The children do not reply, because they have sloped off into some undergrowth to kick something, or whack something with sticks and are ignoring you. The dog can hear you though. The dog is right behind you optimistically dragging half a tree that it hopes you will throw. It barks hysterically, as if to say "LOOK AT THIS AMAZING TREE I FOUND! THROW IT! THROW IT! I CAN TOTALLY CHASE IT!"
"No" you hiss at it. "Fuck off. Go and get a normal sized stick, you idiot".
Then you find and throw a normal size stick for the dog, who runs after the stick, sniffs it a couple of times, then goes back to its half tree. It staggers down the path under the weight of it, nearly tripping up several mountain bikers who shout at you in Dutch. You put the dog on the lead and look for the children.
They are looking at some moss. Or sniffing glue. Who knows.
You chivvy them onto a tree stump for a photo opportunity:
"So, every day of the holidays he would make us climb a mountain and because my legs were much shorter than his, he would get to sit on a rock for ten minutes and have a rest while I caught up. Then when I did catch up, he would set off again. And he had the only food".
"Uncle Frank once got hypothermia halfway up Whernside. Well, he thought he had hypothermia, but Grandad wouldn't stop to check. He's never been north of Luton again".
"When I went vegetarian, the only sandwich filling I was allowed on walks was bread. Maybe a couple of Seabrook crisps on special occasions".
"I've told you about the time he locked us in a barn all day at Christmas, haven't I?"
But then you realise you are talking to yourself again, because the children have run away, bored, and you find your mind wandering back to the other bits of In My Day, like when your father found that dipper's nest at Askrigg Falls and hoisted you onto his shoulder to peep in behind the rocky overhang at the chicks. You think about happening upon wobbly legged newborn lambs, still wet and slimy, then you remember leaping across the otherwordly limestone pavement at Ingleborough, and swimming in the deep shockingly cold pools in the River Cover. You remember the way the rabbits would scatter in all directions across the moor when, bored, you went out of the back gate on your own with a pony book and a piece of Lyle's Ginger Cake, to go and sit by the rope swing.
You think of the pair of kites circling slowly above the long, flat summit of Penhill when you used to scramble up it for fun on summer evenings, over the bouncy heather and the coarse tufts of grass, startling up ungainly pheasants, raucous and surprising. The smell, and the taste, of those tall marshy grasses you used to chew for no particular reason, the ones that grew on the edges of fast, full streams and brown tarns. They grow here too, you've seen bushy clumps of them. You pick one, bend it, put the stalk in your mouth speculatively, instantly feel the peaty familiarity of it. You wonder how hard it would be, at Christmas, to drive up to the Dales for a night or two. You feel the pull of that landscape, the hardy little black faced, white nosed Swaledale sheep, the occasional moments when a shaft of sunlight pierces the cloud cover and turns the fields that supernaturally brilliant green. And you know you're lost.
Eventually you get back and everyone is slightly chilled at the extremities and pink cheeked apart from the dog who is muddy and panting and still optimistically dragging a tree. You light a fire and spend the rest of the day dozing on the sofa under a duvet and reading Ian Rankin and failing to understand the intricacies of that new-ish Spiderman film that looks like the bastard child of Glee and Twilight. The children can't be bothered to fight with each other: one has a proprietary hand on your arm and the other leans a cheek against your shoulder, both absorbed in Spidernonsense. The dog flops onto a beanbag and doesn't bother you for the next 12 hours. Everything is very peaceful. And at that moment, for a little while, it doesn't seem so very terrible, turning into your parents.


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Home › Classroom Resources › Lesson Plans
Lesson Plan
I've Got the Literacy Blues
|9 – 12
|Lesson Plan Type
|Estimated Time
|Six 45- to 60-minute sessions
|Lesson Author
Pleasanton, California
What are the blues? How can the blues be used to better understand a story's theme? Students will answer these questions in this lesson when they read O. Henry's "The Gift of the Magi" and explore the story's themes using blues music, creative writing, and media study. Students begin by listening to several blues selections, reading essays about the blues, and discussing characteristics of blues music. Next, students build their background knowledge by conducting research and completing a graphic organizer about the blues. After researching the blues, students read "The Gift of the Magi" and identify the story's themes. They then make connections to their own lives by writing and performing blues poetry based on one of the themes from the story. As a final project, students create a mural to showcase their understanding of the story's themes as they apply to literature, music, poetry, and their own lives.
|The Blues Graphic Organizer: Students can use this handout to help them organize their research about blues music.
Copeland, M., & Goering, C. (2003). Blues you can use: Teaching the Faust theme through music, literature, and film. Journal of Adolescent & Adult Literacy, 46(3), 436441.
- Popular culture is an excellent and often overlooked resource that should be used to enhance students' literacy skills, as students are exposed to music, film, video games, and television, but often do not explore, understand, or apply this media to their literacy lives.
- Using the musical form of the blues can help improve students' critical reading, thinking, listening, discussing, and writing skills.
- It is important to incorporate new forms of literacy, such as music and other elements of popular culture, into the classroom in order to better prepare students for the skills life demands.


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Please ensure the following before logging in:
- Always check for the correct url address For Retail Management Units (RMU)- https://rmu.oximall.com
- Do not enter login or other sensitive information to any other website except listed the above one.
- Please always change/reset your password periodically
- Keep checking your registered email. Our schemes are always send though email circulars or on our website https://rmu.oximall.com
- Do not share your ID and password with anyone.


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AraNix necesitaba un nuevo diseño de logotipo y lanzó un concurso de diseño en 99designs.
Un ganador ha sido elegido entre 457 diseños de 134 diseñadores freelance.
AraNix (Capital A & Capital N)
AraNix is a startup company in the business of Managed IT Services (IT Managed Service Provider). We do network infrastructure planing, design and implementation, servers selections, procurement, installation and configuration, etc.
Our mission is "Helping companies outsource their IT services to focus on running their core business"
Take a look at http://www.directpointe.com/solutions/index.aspx to understand better what we do.
We are based in Egypt, but also target markets in Dubai & Saudi Arabia.
Mid-size & large companies that doesn't consider IT as part of their work or income.The audience therefore is usually not going to be very tech-savvy. Our clients work in sectors like oil & gas, ports, governments, etc.
Our logo will be seen by the decision makers at businesses, and should cater to corporate clients. We are a B2B company. However, since we intend to use communities to do the work, our logo should be attractive to our communities as well
• The logo should be eye catching, memorable, unique & creative
• The logo should reflect company characters as much as possible (smart, young, responsive, dynamic, confident, and reliable)
• The logo must be 100% original. Absolutely no clipart, stock photos, pre-produced or licensed material can be used.
• The colors should be powerful yet simple. Black, Red & Gray is one of my favorite combinations. White/gray, blue & black also looks good but don't let my color selections limit your creativity.
• The logo should feature the company name + an image/graphic that represents what we do.
• Your design will drive the color palette for all our other materials
• We'll want print file format (.ai, CMYK) and web file format (.jpg and layered .psd, RGB) for the final product.
• Logo will be transferable and scalable to many mediums: website branding, business cards, stationary, letterheads, Facebook and Twitter icons. We understand that it may make sense to use variations of the logo for each medium. But these variations must be easy to make without extensive redesign of the logo.
Descubre cómo funciona un concurso de diseño u obtén más información sobre nuestros servicios de diseño de logo.


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Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG) is a serious infection of the gums that causes ulcers, swelling, and dead tissues in the mouth.
Risk Factors
ANUG most often impacts people who are 35 years of age and younger. Factors that may increase the risk of ANUG include excess bacteria in the mouth due to:
- Lack of dental care
- Poor dental hygiene
- Poor diet
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Infections in the throat, teeth, or mouth
- A weak immune system
- Smoking
- Stress
Symptoms may include:
- Pain in the gums
- Gums that bleed easily
- Bad taste in the mouth; extremely bad breath
- Red and swollen gums
- Gray residue on the gums
- Large ulcers or loss of gum tissue in between teeth
- Fever
- Discomfort
- Swollen lymph nodes
You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A dental exam will be done.
Images may be taken of your teeth and face. This can be done with x-rays .
Although ANUG is a painful condition, it can be treated. Treatment may include:
- Antibacterial mouthwash
- Pain control with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen
- Dental surgery
- Regular dental cleanings
- Antibiotics to treat infection
- Changes in diet
To help reduce your chances of ANUG:
- Take proper care of teeth and gums.
- See your dentist regularly.
- Eat a balanced diet.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Michael Woods, MD, FAAP
- Review Date: 09/2018 -
- Update Date: 09/16/2016 -


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Visiting the Collections main content.
COVID-19 Update: The Museum is closed to maintain health and safety. Read more.
The collections of the Department of Mammalogy are open to researchers and students. Requests to visit the collection should be made at least two weeks in advance by emailing a completed Visitor Registration Form to email@example.com. Each individual requesting access must submit a separate form. If you are a returning visitor, you must still submit a form for each new visit. Be sure to include a brief description of activities to be conducted in the collection, taxa to be examined, and proposed dates for the visit.
Applications from students must be accompanied by a letter of support from the student's academic advisor. The letter of support should include a brief description of the student's project. It should also include a statement about the student's prior experience working with museum specimens.
Please review the Visitor Guidelines before your visit.
Making molds of specimens is considered potentially destructive. Visitors wishing to make molds must submit a destructive sampling request. Please see the page on destructive sampling for more information.
Please be aware that permission to visit the Department of Mammalogy does not automatically grant access to other departments at the American Museum of Natural History.
The Department is open to approved visitors Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. excluding the following holidays:


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The operators of Baltimore's city-owned Hilton gathered Thursday to defend the hotel's financial reputation, saying it has enough cash to cover its costs and emphasizing that city taxpayers are not on the hook for expenses or losses.
Last year, the hotel lost $11.5 million. Most of that loss, about $9.6 million, can be attributed to accounting requirements, which do not represent cash losses, said M.J. "Jay" Brodie, who heads the Baltimore Hotel Corp., which oversees the Hilton's finances.
The hotel, constructed using more than $300 million in tax-exempt bonds issued by the city, had enough cash on hand last year to pay for its operating costs and debt service, Brodie said.
Brodie also emphasized that the city and its taxpayers are not responsible for hotel expenses or losses.
Though the Hilton has had higher revenue per available room than its competitors for the last phree years, the hotel and its companion convention center need to do a better job drawing business to turn a profit, said Irene Van Sant, a project analysis director for the hotel corporation.
To push the hotel toward the black, Van Sant said, the occupancy rate needs to rise at least 7 percent. The rate was 63 percent in 2011.
It would also help if a higher room rate could be charged, though that is largely dependent on the economy improving, Van Sant said. Last year's average daily room rate was $171.53.
The corporation released its annual audit this week. Among its findings:
•Cash at year's end declined from 2010 to 2011, from $9.7 million to $7.2 million. The corporation projects an even lower cash amount at the end of 2012 — $6.9 million.
•The hotel's revenue declined 2.5 percent in 2011, to $54.5 million. Room revenue declined from $30.2 million in 2010 to $29.9 million last year.
•Earlier this year, the corporation had to withdraw about $4 million from a $9 million operating reserve fund to make a semiannual debt payment. Still, the corporation expects to have nearly $25 million in reserves at the end of 2012.
Latest Real Estate


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New Movies in Sioux Falls Theaters
Here's a peek at the new movies showing in Sioux Falls, Huron, Yankton, Mitchell, Dell Rapids, Vermillion, Brookings, and more. After these awesome HD trailers, scroll down to see your favorite theater for showtimes.
2 Guns (Action / Thriller - Rated R) A DEA agent and a naval intelligence officer find themselves on the run after a botched attempt to infiltrate a drug cartel. While fleeing, they learn the secret of their shaky alliance: Neither knew that the other was an undercover agent. Stars: Denzel Washington, Mark Wahlberg
The Smurfs 2 (Animated / Comedy / Family - Rated PG) The evil wizard Gargamel creates a couple of mischievous Smurf-like creatures called the Naughties that he hopes will let him harness the all-powerful, magical Smurf-essence. Stars: Hank Azaria, Neil Patrick Harris
Carmike Mall 5 Yankton Showtimes
Mitchell, Huron, and Dell Rapids Theaters and showtimes


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2 3 oz packages of Jell-O, each a different color
2 layers yellow cake
fluffy frosting
2 cups boiling water, divided use
Return cooled cakes to clean cake pans. Place on cookie sheet. Using a two pronged fork or chopstick, poke random holes in each layer of cake, about 2 inches apart. In two separate bowls, mix together one package of Jell-O and one cup boiling water and allow to cool slightly. Pour one flavor over one cake layer and then pour the other of the remaining layer. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 3 hours. Remove from pan, dipping the bottom of the pan briefly in hot water to loosen if needed. Ice top, sides, bottom and between the two cakes with fluffy icing. Slice and serve.


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Posted 8 years ago
(22 items)
This is a pocket knife that my daddy gave me over the summer. He has carried this around in his pocket for 25+ years. It was his favorite knife and I was so shocked that he parted with it. One of the things that my dad loves to do the most is trade knives, guns, and etc. He has a great collection of knives and almost anything a country boy could want.
I don't really know that much about this piece but that it has an animal that I think is a fox, the insignia K55K (the last K is backward) and Mercator-Germany printed on the side. This is the sharpest pocket knife I have ever seen. (no pun intended)


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The nicest thing about escorts is that they offer people who want to try out a different type of dating experience. In a bar, with a large group of people, you are bound to meet someone who you don't really know. You don't even want to think about someone who looks like he or she is drunk. Plus, most men and women are tired of the guys and girls going at it and going home with them after a few drinks.
People often become friends with one another before making their first move and hoping that one or more of them are able to go any further than "maybe." After all, it isn't easy to get a girl to take you back to her place if she has no interest in you. Of course, you can ask a few friends for advice on which escorts might be interested in meeting up with you, but this means that you'll have to go to several bars and other places before you even see a single escort.
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Because many people don't want to meet with potential partners at a bar or club, they often choose to meet with escorts online and this is a great way to do so. Just make sure that you know the rules and make sure that you are meeting with a service that you feel comfortable with.


text: Come see us at Karl Malone Toyota for an impressive selection of used cars, trucks, SUVs and vans in Draper, UT, where we let you call the play! Our eager and expert team of highly trained professionals is here to help you locate the quality and reliable vehicle you are searching for, while ensuring your car-buying experience is not only quick, but also as stress-free as can be. Each one of our vehicles has undergone a thorough inspection to ensure quality transportation, reliability and most importantly, peace of mind before being placed on our lot. To make sure you have plenty of options to choose from, we offer a wide variety of used vehicles not only from Toyota, but also from other top manufacturers. Be sure to also check out our latest used car specials that ensure you a slam-dunk deal every time!


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Search and Shortlist
Add to shortlist button.
You get the best views of Windermere by boat...
Brockhole lakeshore is the place to hire rowing boats, motor boats, sit on top kayaks, open canoes and paddle boards. Join the team this summer for a true Lake District watersports experience.
Opening details
Free entry, pay and display parking.
For Boat Hire pricing, please see the website.
- Baby changing facilities
- Coach parties accepted
- Credit cards accepted (with charge)
- Disabled toilets
- Education/study area
- Facilities for groups
- Facilities for educational visits
- Gift shop
- On-site catering
- On-site light refreshments
- Picnic site
- Public toilets
- Regional Tourist Board Member
- Wheelchairs available
- Accepts groups
- Facilities for conferencing
- Facilities for corporate hospitality
- Children welcome
Good facilities whatever the weather, with plenty to do indoors and outdoors. Indoor play and learn for the under 5's, exhibitions, adventure playground, boat and bike hire, mini golf and boat trips with Windermere Lake Cruises.
Events at this Venue
Brockhole Information Team
By Bus: It is easy to get to Brockhole by bus. Both the 599 open top service and the 555 bus provide regular services between Bowness and Grasmere, so why not sit back and enjoy the view? The 555 runs between Keswick, Grasmere, Windermere and Kendal. The bus stops outside the entrance.
By Boat: The Jetty at Brockhole offers links with Windermere Lake Crusies to Bowness, Ambleside and Wray Castle. We're on the Green Cruise – circular trip from Brockhole visiting Waterhead and Wray Castle then returning to Brockhole. And the Red Cruise – circular request trip from Brockhole visiting Waterhead, Bowness and returning.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Windermere, some two miles south of Brockhole, offering train services to Kendal and Oxenholme . A bus (555 or 559), bike or taxi would then be needed for the final link of the journey.
By Bike: There is a cycle path along some stretches of the A592 road between Windermere and Brockhole mainly recommended for experienced bikers. The 800 Bike Bus (Windermere to Haverthwaite) stops nearby and can carry up to 12 bikes.
On Foot: There is a footway all along the A592 between Windermere and Brockhole. Plus bridleways descend from the hills to the east near the site if you fancy the scenic route. Visit the National Trust website for detail sof walks.
By Car: Conveniently located on A591 between Windermere and Ambleside.
with charge
: 2 miles from Windermere station


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When you first start working on your public speaking skills, the idea of finding time to practice seems almost impossible. At the same time, I can tell you that improvement just won't happen unless you do practice-- and practice regularly, focusing on each thing you need to improve, as well as on your next presentation.
How do you make practice a priority, and fit it into your busy schedule? Try these 6 stealth ways to find the time for your speaking practice:
- Do it in the commercial breaks: When I started learning guitar, the instructor suggested that I practice only 5 to 7 minutes at a time, to keep my fingers from getting too sore and discouraging me. "I don't normally recommend watching TV," he said, "but it's easy to work during commercial breaks with the sound muted, then stop when the program starts again." The same can work for you: choose something short to practice -- like your opening line, your closing lines, or short anecdote -- then be ready with that mute button. You get about 10 minutes of practice each half-hour this way.
- Schedule an hour a week: If you want to do your practicing in the office, put it on your schedule. Start with an hour a week to practice basic skills on a regular basis. Before presentation, don't wait till the last minute to schedule a rehearsal time; instead, put in our day on your schedule for the two weeks prior.
- Break it down to focus on one part of a thorny issue: If you find yourself stumbling over a particular issue in your delivery, break it into manageable parts, and focus on just one of them at a time. That way, each small area of focus will fit into a shorter, easier-to-schedule practice time. For example, if you're having trouble delivering an anecdote in an efficient way, then spend one hour brainstorming a tight beginning. In the next session, figure out your ending. In another, work on getting from point aA to point B in an entertaining fashion
- Use your drive time: Second only to video practice is audio practice, something you can easily use in your car, on a subway train, or on yoor walk home. Spend part of your in-office practice recording yourself delivering a presentation all the way through, perhaps more than once. You may think of this as wince-able drive-time listening, issued in damages feedback: after listening to yourself several times, you'll come away with a sense of what you need to change, what takes too long to say, where you need to slow down, and much more.
- Use that hotel room: The time-honored practice zone for traveling speakers everywhere, hotel rooms have a lot going for them--you're hidden from view, have access to a mirror, and often, plenty of time to kill. If you find yourself with waiting time, use your hotel room as a private practice zone--even if you're not doing a presentation this trip. It's a great way to work in practice time.
- Take the last 10 minutes: Ten minutes before your actual talk or presentation, duck into a stairwell or nearby restroom for a few minutes' worth of nailing your beginning, plus some deep breathing to calm you down. Just don't make this your only practice time!


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U.S. Equal Employment
Opportunity Commission
Cardiology Practice Fired Employee Who Complained About Harassment, Federal Agency Charged
PITTSBURGH – A Washington, Pa.-based cardiology practice will pay $125,000 and provide significant remedial relief to settle a federal sexual harassment and retaliation lawsuit filed by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the agency announced today.
According to the lawsuit, three cardiologists, who were owners, shareholders or officers of the medical practice, subjected a registered nurse, Moncel Deitz, and two other female employees to a sexually hostile work environment. The doctors repeatedly made sexually offensive and debasing comments to Deitz and other female employees. The harassment also included being forced to look at sexually explicit pictures and messages on a cell phone, the EEOC said.
The EEOC also charged that after Deitz and other employees complained about the harassment to the harassers and to other owners/shareholders of the practice, the medical practice terminated Deitz in retaliation for her opposition to the sexual harassment.
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 makes it unlawful to sexually harass an employee and to retaliate against someone who complains about employment discrimination. The EEOC attempted to reach a voluntary settlement through its conciliation process before filing suit against Bryan C. Donohue, M.D., doing business as Donohue Cardiology Associates, in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania, Civil Action 09-1280.
In addition to the $125,000 in monetary relief to Deitz and two other women, the three-and-one-half-year consent decree resolving the case enjoins Donohue Cardiology Associates and its owners from creating a sexually hostile work environment or engaging in unlawful retaliation in the future. The medical practice must make sure that owners, managers and supervisors actively monitor the workplace to ensure there is no sexual harassment or retaliation, and promptly report any incidents. The medical practice is required to investigate promptly all such complaints, including hiring an equal employment opportunity or human resources consultant to conduct the investigation. Donohue Cardiology Associates will report to the EEOC on how it addressed any harassment or retaliation complaints, provide training and post a notice regarding the settlement.
"This case shows that firing an employee because she complained about sexual harassment not only makes a bad situation worse, it is also illegal," said EEOC District Director Spencer H. Lewis, Jr.
Debra M. Lawrence, regional attorney for the EEOC's Philadelphia District Office, which oversees Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, and parts of New Jersey and Ohio, added, "If the owners or officers of a business engage in unlawful harassment, the law imposes automatic liability for that conduct. We are pleased that the federal court acknowledged this important point of law in an earlier ruling in this case, and that it approved the parties' negotiated consent decree, which is designed to protect all employees at the medical practice from unlawful harassment and retaliation."
According to its web site, http://donohuecardiology.org, Donohue Cardiology Associates has five offices in Pennsylvania.
The EEOC enforces federal laws prohibiting employment discrimination. Further information about the EEOC is available on its web site at www.eeoc.gov.


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(CNN) -- Singer Bobby "Blue" Bland has died at the age of 83, his son said Monday.
Bland's son Rodd told CNN that failing health had forced his dad off the stage earlier this year. "He had a hole in his stomach that had become tumorous, and it was emptying into his bloodstream."
He said Bland passed away from natural causes at his home in Germantown, Tenn. "He was in my arms," his son said. "But I'm not going to lie. I could have used at least 20 more years."
A website in Bland's name credits the singer with being "one of the main creators of the modern soul-blues sound."
"He never b**ched about not getting his due," said his son, who formerly was a drummer in his father's band. "When I took him to Beale Street for ribs and catfish, fans would come up to him. He was always courteous, polite and kind. And humble. That's what I admired."
Bland's song "Ain't No Love in the Heart of the City" was sampled on Jay-Z's 2001 album, "The Blueprint."
According to his website, Bland was born in 1930 in Rosemark, Tennessee, outside Memphis. He began his career singing with a gospel group before joining the blues group the Beale Streeters, which included such future stars as B.B. King, Junior Parker and others.
Bland was drafted into the Army in 1952. After his release from the service in 1954, he resumed his musical career as a solo act and established a long-term professional relationship with Duke Records. Soon he had hits racing up the R&B charts, including "I Pity the Fool" and "That's the Way Love Is."
Bland often toured with his former bandmate King, and King was on hand to help induct the singer into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992.
™ & © 2013 Cable News Network, Inc., a Time Warner Company. All rights reserved


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Joe was the same guy who said, repeatedly, that "nobody wants to end the war more than" he...well, I'm starting to think that by "ending the war", Joe means either when the entire Middle East will be a smoldering pile of charred rubble; or when the entire populace of Iraq will suddenly put down their weapons and immediately embrace Western-style Democracy and wave U.S. flags with wild abandon (and go against centuries of culture and religion).
From CNN.Com (h/t to Matt Browner-Hamlin over at MLN)
Lieberman: Withdrawal would be a 'very serious mistake'So, anyone who voted for Joe because they believed him when he said he wanted to get our troops home safely, well...those ain't HIS kids dying over there.
WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Sen. Joe Lieberman, may have agreed to caucus with the Democrats in the next congressional term, but the Connecticut independent made it clear Wednesday he would not hold the party line on a call for phased troop withdrawals.
"Both general Abizaid and Ambassador Satterfield were quite clear and to me convincing, that for congress to order the beginning of a phased redeployment, a withdrawal of American troops from Iraq within the next 4 to 6 months would be a very serious mistake and would endanger ultimate the United States," Lieberman told reporters after the Senate Armed Services Committee hearing on Iraq.
Sen. Carl Levin of Michigan, who is to become the chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee when Democrats take control of the chamber in January, said Tuesday a phased withdrawal is the only way Iraqi forces will take responsibility for their country.
Lieberman's comments are a sign his defeat in the Connecticut Democratic primary has not weakened his hawkish stance on Iraq. Connecticut Democrats voted Lieberman out of the party in August, opting for vehement antiwar candidate Ned Lamont. Lieberman, running as an independent candidate, defeated Lamont in the general election.


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The second step, once this tracing is approved, is a 'painting' called a 'croquis'. I had heard this word for many years in the Quilt Marketplace but had never seen it written.
The croquis ...with color chips long the side.
I was on a French textile tour a few years ago. Our guide was amazing and very multi-lingual. We were gathering getting ready to leave Versailles when he noticed a small Chinese group deep in discussion about something? He stepped over to them and in flawless Mandarin answered their question.
Why not ask him about this word? 'Oh yes...it means cartoon or quick sketch'. (I think of a sketch/croquis costume designers do when they are trying to communicate their vision for say a particular garment for Nicole Kidman in Cold Mountain...I sold the designer yards and yards of fabric for that movie).
And he knew how to spell it!! I was very impressed.
I will be traveling to a wedding in Virginia Memorial Day weekend and probably not posting on Sunday. I am going two days early for appointments with the collections at Winterthur....one day with quilts, another with sample books.
When we return on June 1, I am planning to post a little 'project' for all of you...having to do with definitions.


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Tim Thomerson
Tim Thomerson rates highly as one of the best, most prolific, versatile and dependable character actors to ever grace both the big and small screens alike with pleasing regularity since the mid 70s. A ...Show more
Tim Thomerson rates highly as one of the best, most prolific, versatile and dependable character actors to ever grace both the big and small screens alike with pleasing regularity since the mid 70s. Although often cast as laconic rough 'n' tumble macho guys, Thomerson has proved on many occasions that he can essay comic roles and more substantial dramatic parts with equal skill and conviction. He was born on April 8th, 1946 in Coronado, California and was raised in Hawaii and San Diego. He did a stint in the National Guard prior to getting a job as a prop man and set builder at the Old Globe Theatre in San Diego. Character actor Anthony Zerbe advised Thomerson to get lessons from legendary acting teacher Stella Adler in New York; and he duly studied with Adler for four years.He began his show business career as a stand-up comedian; he performed at the clubs The Bitter End, Bud Friedman's Improvisation and Catch A Rising Star in New York and at the Comedy Store and the Improv in Los Angeles. He eventually even had a guest spot on "The Tonight Show" with Johnny Carson. His film debut was with a funny small role in the hilarious "Car Wash." He achieved his greatest enduring cult popularity with his delightfully deadpan portrayal of rugged police detective Jack Deth in the terrific "Trancers" and its strictly so-so sequels. Other memorable parts include eccentric police detective Jerry Moriarty in the fine "Fade to Black," weary factory worker Ray in "Take This Job and Shove It," a highway patrolman in Clint Eastwood's poignant and underrated "Honkytonk Man," burnt-out Vietnam vet helicopter pilot Charts in the exciting "Uncommon Valor," grimy mercenary Rhodes in the cheesy "Metalstorm: The Destruction of Jared-Syn," the crazed John Reynolds in "Volunteers," demented cult leader Lester in "Cherry 2000," the tough-as-nails the Sarge in the enjoyably quirky "Zone Troopers;" lovely and touching as the gentle Loy in the outstanding "Near Dark," diminutive, but fearless alien lawman Brick Bardo in the funky "Dollman," and a scruffy motorcyclist in Terry Gilliam's unjustly maligned "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas." Tim has appeared in a large number of films for low-budget independent director Albert Pyon and acted alongside real-life best buddy Brion James in numerous pictures (the two first met while both serving in the National Guard Reserves). On television Thomerson played the half-man, half-woman Gene-Jean on the uproarious, but sadly short-lived sci-fi parody program "Quark." Thomerson also had recurring roles on the TV shows "Sirens" and "Land's End" and has made guest appearances on countless TV shows. Hide


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Make the cake in the morning and cut in the evening. Chop the apples after the batter is mixed. After the cake is done, turn the tube upside down on an empty soda bottle until the cake is cool.
5 cooking apples ( Roma and Jonathan )
2 teaspoons cinnamon
2⅓ cups sugar, divided
1 cup margarine
4 eggs
3 cups sifted flour
3 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
⅓ cup orange juice
1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
Preheat oven to 350 degree F
In mixer, combine margarine and 2⅓ cups of sugar. Cream at medium speed until fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
In a separate bowl, stir together flour, baking powder and salt. Add to batter. Add juice and extracts. Combine until batter is smooth.
In another bowl peel and quarter apples, core and slices. Combine apples, cinnamon and ⅓ cup of sugar. Mix well.
Place a small amount of batter in bottom of greased and floured 10-inch tube pan. Arrange a layer of apple slices over batter. Continue layering, ending with batter.
Bake in a 350 degree F oven 1½ hours or until cake tesis done. Cool in a wire rack.


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Story highlights
- Planning too many extracurricular activities for kids can stress out the whole family
- Some parents worry their children will miss out if they don't participate in everything
- Psychologist: Children may not experience character-building if they're spread thin
Are we, as a nation, making childhood too stressful for millions of kids?
Are we cramming them into too many after-school activities without an eye toward what lessons they'll learn about themselves?
Have we forgotten what childhood can and should be like?
These are just a few of the big existential worries that spiral out of a simple-sounding question millions of parents ask ourselves: What activities should my children be involved in?
As a dad to two young boys, I'm quickly learning what so many parents already know: It's stressful territory that involves a tough balancing act.
But recently, standing before a large crowd, I had a realization that now serves as my guidepost, and that I hope will help others.
What if your kid's a budding prodigy?
Good parents want to help our kids learn skills, gain confidence, find interests and try new things. When they're young, it's easy to want to give them every opportunity.
But that's impossible, not to mention expensive.
One of my boys has drummed to the beat since he was a baby, so I'm looking into drum lessons. The other can't stop dancing, so maybe he'll take dance lessons. Both love playing catch with me. Tee ball time?
The oldest, in kindergarten, chose tennis lessons. And they both love their swim lessons.
The possibilities are endless.
What if one is meant to be a pole vaulting chess prodigy, and the other's an Olympic gymnast who paints masterpieces? How will they know if we don't introduce them to all these things?
And so the spiraling begins, which helps lead some parents to sign our kids up for too many activities.
There are studies saying the "overscheduled child" is a "myth," but those are about generation-wide statistics. The fact remains that some kids are kept far too busy.
"Parents need to teach their kids to balance human doing with human being," said clinical psychologist Paula Bloom.
Kids need to know they're not defined by what they do, she said. They need time to play, experiment, rest and figure out who they are.
"As parents, we've got to get over our anxiety that we're not doing enough. Creating a sense of safety, helping kids have confidence to try certain things, those are the things that matter."
As kids get older, they'll show you more and more what they're interested in, Bloom notes.
And, yes, we all make mistakes.
"As adults, your kids are going to tell their therapists, 'Oh my parents never let me play piano,' or some other activity. It's going to happen. Being able to tolerate that is really important."
League sports for little kids?
Many of my kids' friends started soccer leagues at age 3. My wife and I asked ourselves: Do we want our boys to be the only ones without soccer skills? We want them to know they can do anything and to join the camaraderie.
But on top of their other activities, our kids have religious education one weekend morning. Soccer would mean not a single morning all week to relax at home, unstructured.
A great dad I know, a personal trainer (full disclosure: mine) who works regularly with teen athletes, is vehemently against kids entering sports leagues before they're about age 11 or 12.
Adults are "trying to instill grown-up values and competitive nature on a kid, and they're nowhere near that yet," said Robert Stephens. "They're trying to make them into world champions. That's nuts!"
Stephens, who along with his wife raised two boys, wants kids to start playing neighborhood pickup games again.
"It teaches them how to regulate themselves, make up rules," and fix problems, he said.
But these days, that rarely happens. And as CNN has reported, league sports are helping fill a vacuum and keep many kids active.
Your advice
In a Facebook discussion, some parents said their kids' sports leagues are mostly about having fun.
Dawn Ladd said her 6-year-old daughter's soccer league is "organized, but obviously not competitive."
Still, many parents say leagues aren't right for their little ones.
"We tried... and it was awful. What 4-year-old is ready?" asks Christina Comstock. She now limits her son's activities to scouts and karate.
Many parents wrote that two activities at a time is their maximum. But others have seen their children thrive on busy schedules.
My colleague Jo Parker's two children have done ballet for years. Her 12-year-old daughter goes five days a week. Cutting back might make the family's life easier, Parker said. "But she loves it too much!"
Ultimately, it's up to each family.
"There's no decision tree," said Bloom, no "perfect cocktail."
There is, however, a critical element that often falls to the wayside: the family's overall lifestyle.
"There are families with so much stress because all weekend they're traveling to games. We don't let our kids drive all the decisions in our families. They don't have to drive extracurricular decisions," Bloom said.
And many parents get so busy with kids' activities that they let their marriages falter, she said. "Parents need to ask themselves: What are you modeling for your kid?"
The realization
I was standing in front of hundreds of teenagers when I realized something about raising my own kids.
It was a keynote address to the Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY) World Leadership Congress. My message was to "be the cups and ice," my way of saying you should chase and maximize all your opportunities to achieve dreams and to "shine" by being unique, following your instincts.
As I looked out at these kids from all over the world who have stepped up in their communities and shown great potential, it struck me that I couldn't care less whether they can run an 8-minute mile, play the violin, or set up a tent.
I care that they know they can achieve anything, that they understand big rewards come from perseverance and hard work, that they treat others as they'd want to be treated.
I care that they fill their lives with positivity, love and friendship, and take time for those things.
I realized I had gotten caught up in the means, not the end.
It isn't about a search for the perfect activities. My role as a parent is to help guide my kids to that good place. And there are plenty of ways to get there.


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We are Team: The Swan Ate My Baby!
Amber Atkins forever
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Sergio Garval nace en Guadalajara Jalisco México el 13 de junio de 1968. Es egresado de la carrera de pintura de la Escuela de Artes Plásticas de a Universidad de Guadalajara, 1987-1992.
En Noviembre de 1997 tomó un curso avanzado de pintura, impartido por el maestro Luis Nishizawa, Museo del Pueblo, Guanajuato.
En Julio de 1999 en el Summer Studio Residency New York, School of Visual Arts, New York New York, USA.
1994-1995 Becario de Consejo Estatal para la Cultura y las Artes. Jalisco, México.
2003-2004 Becario Jóvenes Creadores CONACULTA – FONCA
Premios y menciones
1994 Premio de adquisición de escultura II concurso de escultura el Caballo. Escuela de Artes Plásticas, Universidad de Guadalajara.
Premio de adquisición de Pintura, II concurso de pintura, El caballo. Escuela de Artes Plásticas, Universidad de Guadalajara.
Mención honorífica de pintura, categoría "Salón de octubre". Guadalajara, Jalisco.
2º.Lugar de grabado "Salón de octubre". Guadalajara, Jalisco.
2º. Lugar de dibujo, "Salón de octubre". Guadalajara, Jalisco.
1995 1er. Lugar de dibujo, "Salón de octubre". Guadalajara, Jalisco.
1998 Mención honorífica escultura, Premio Omnilife. Guadalajara, Jalisco.
Primer premio de adquisición de pintura, Premio Omnilife. Guadalajara, Jalisco.
2001 Premio de adquisición en grabado, Gran Premio Omnilife. Guadalajara, Jalisco.
2002 Premio de adquisición X Concurso Nacional de grabado, José Guadalupe Posadas 2002. Aguascalientes, Aguascalientes.
Premio de adquisición, gráfica. X Bienal de grabado y dibujo Diego Rivera 2002. Guanajuato, Guanajuato.
2003 Presea Alfredo Zalce". Cuarta Bienal De Pintura y Grabado Alfredo Zalce. Morelia, Michoacán.
Mención Honorífica. XI Concurso Nacional de grabado, José Guadalupe Posadas, Aguascalientes, México.
2004 Premio de Adquisición. Premio Guadalajara 2004. Guadalajara, Jalisco. México.
Artist Biography
My encounter with his more than dramatic work made me deduce that the effectiveness of an art piece happens when it makes intellect and sensitivity collide. It is then when a knot begins to disentangle, something that otherwise would pass unnoticed among the vastness of images that overwhelm us every day. The aesthetic emotion that Sergio Garval's work provokes in us is radical despite the harshness of the subjects he dares to depict. His are that kind of pieces that one cannot easily let go.
I've started to discover slowly that this artist born in Guadalajara , Jalisco in 1968 is interested in the behaviour of groups of the masses. I have also confirmed, after looking his paintings once and again, that there is a rather evident displacement from a common focus which is always centred in one person within a main scene ; he focuses in the collective reaction to what is happening to one individual. This is one of his most original and interesting proposals in comparison with his colleague's work. Garval's will to take us to raped public spaces is shocking, they are a series of environments where there isn't a safe, healing private space. He has worked recently in Ants, a series of shocking scenes about certain collective behaviours that approach people to animals. Works like Just another day faces the fact that crimes happen daily in the world, depicting it through inks on the white canvas that make his drawing skills stand out. The bird's eye view that he enjoys using so much highlights the idea of animal behaviour of groups of people by reducing and minimizing the human figure turning it to grotesque, to what is no related to politeness. I should also mention that his representation of people in trolleys also respond to a sociological analysis of individuals and not to the need of showing their personal, intimate tragedies.
Another subject of the several series that Garval proposes to the world is Flesh, a rather powerful and everlasting matter which is sometimes overlooked in Art history. Despite the fact that in recent times the morbidness of the body has been presented in galleries and museums through the work of artists such as Lucien Freud, Francis Bacon and Jenny Saville (very remarkable in this matter), Mexican artists have not showed a particular interest in the matter of flesh in the ennoble, not artistic aspect of it.
About six years ago, some exhibitions as illustrative as El cuerpo aludido (The quoted body) at Mexico's MUNAL (National Museum of Art) arose the curiosity of some enthusiasts of the truth as supreme value, but any progress in the appreciation of the bulkiness or uninhibitions of the body has been slow. We can therefore say that incarnations fearlessly created and pasted by Garval have marked an important milestone in the history of Mexican contemporary art. It is a territory that very few deal with.
In his paintings, flat finishing and gradual corporal transitions make way to impulsive, kind of expressionist brushstrokes. Garval breaks the notion of good taste (noble gestures, continued fluency of movements and harmonic relations among strain and flexibility of anatomy). He is interested in unmasking and weighing up moral values referred to his own doctrine not as imitator of reality but as a translator of it. His is a more intellectual than mechanic activity, thus he destroys, fragments and torments. He cries out crisis.
We're living in a Manichean world, in a reductionist culture where simple languages, easy works, trouble-free classifications are looked after. That's what some galleries and museums privilege to fulfil the market. Contrary to that, Garval's work gives us back full humanity since it refuses to participate in the limitations of the media-managed image; meanwhile, he solves the matter in an outstanding way at the same time that he pleases us with his keen artistry of both the graphic space and the human figure. By daring to enter into the dark side, the shade that Jung talked about, he touches a sore spot in contemporary culture with a very refreshing proposal.
By Maria Helena Noval