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Wednesday, October 19, 2011
An Agent's Inbox #3
10 comments:
- Anna said...
I haven't read a lot in this genre, and this premise of a soundcatcher is new to me. I think it is a unique power and I'm quite curious. I have to say that I read the query several times before I understood what was going on. Nevertheless, you did make the stakes very clear and I think that's really important. I like the darkness of it all.
- October 19, 2011 at 11:36 AM
- Kelley Lynn said...
I too have not read a lot in this genre and I must say that while the writing seems beautiful, I couldn't understand what was going on from the query.
While you want the voice to come across in your query letter, you also have to make sure that the idea of the story comes across the first time around, because that's all you get.
Again, maybe someone who reads this genre totally gets it, but I was left confused.
The first 250 words were really well done. I like your writing style. But I'm still left totally confused. I think I would turn the page because confusion usually makes me do that :) but if I was still confused after the second and third page then I'd have to stop.
- October 19, 2011 at 12:00 PM
- Marie Rearden said...
Love this idea. Dead and broken, and both being able to be fixed. Lovely.
The idea of a sound catcher is also new to me. Is he magical (the boy next door), because that makes your premise all the more sweet. :)
As always, your descriptions dip and sway like a perfect symphony. Thanks for sharing!
- October 19, 2011 at 12:03 PM
- K. L. Hallam said...
I loved this query. This story idea is something I can believe in and may even know about. It's clear to me what the stakes are and I'm hooked with this query alone. reading the first page is quite lovely the bird flapping and sad. I feel there is hope for this bird and his sound listener. Definitely would read on and on.
- October 19, 2011 at 12:50 PM
- Unknown said...
I don't read a lot of magical realism, so I'm not sure if a "sound catcher" is something an agent would have heard of. If not, you need to probably explain it a little better. The query was very ethereal, so when you compared it to The Bodyfinder, I was a little thrown. You might also consider taking out the "slash" in your genre. I'd pick one and go with it. An agent might see that slash and say, "If the author doesn't know which it is, how will I sell it?" Just based on what it seems to be about, I'd probably go with paranormal thriller.
I like the voice of your mc. Not sure what this line means: "I tried to tell him I was an invitation-only kind of offer."
I'd keep reading.
- October 19, 2011 at 2:16 PM
I don't think the query is specific enough. I'd cut out the whole first paragraph, start with 'Kristy McMullen(...)'. I also don't understand what the 'safe bet' bit is supposed to mean.
Third paragraph is nice. The 'broken things' is intriguing and fourth paragraph ups the interest. Now we've got talking dead people.
But then what's the message? What's she trying to do? What's standing in her way and why is it going to kill her? You do answer the why (needs to believe broken things can be fixed) but not much else.
In short, the query shows a good setup but not much about the plot. I would read sample pages if there were any attached because I'm intrigued but otherwise I'd just move on.
After reading the sample page I'm still intrigued enough to want to read more.
- October 19, 2011 at 3:00 PM
- Hope Roberson said...
Great idea, I would read more about this!
The query is confusing to me a bit, could be because I'm unfamiliar with this. If you could be a little more specific in paragraph three (Kristy McMullen), is she a soundcather too? What exactly does a soundcatcher do? The way you write it does make me curious and want to find out more though, good hooks.
Great beginning to your story too. Another possible suggestion that goes with style is pare down your repeats of phrases a tiny bit if you can. I think you have enough voice in your writing you may not need as many. Great job and good luck!
- October 20, 2011 at 11:04 AM
- Alison Pearce Stevens said...
I am intrigued by this. I think the first 250 words have terrific voice, and that voice comes through beautifully in the query.
I do, however, think the query could be tightened, particularly the first three paragraphs. The idea of a sound catcher is intriguing, and I love the opening line. The second paragraph leaves me wondering what about the relationship between the sound catcher and the MC. If he catches sounds, why is he sending them out to her? Does she also catch sounds? If so, why is he the only one you refer to as a sound catcher? The third paragraph continues to give the sense that Kristy might also be a sound catcher (why else would she be still and quiet?), yet I get the sense from the rest of the query that she is not. And this results in a bit of confusion. I think paring these three paragraphs down to the essentials would help clarify quite a bit.
From "But when one of those broken things..." on, the pitch is fabulous! I want to read on to see how she fixes the broken things.
- October 20, 2011 at 7:55 PM
Beautifully written, and a very intriguing concept.
This is quite a unique idea for a story, and it instantly draws me in.
I would love to read more.
- October 21, 2011 at 8:12 PM
- Kate Schafer Testerman said...
L.M., I have to admit you lost me right at the beginning -- "A broken life. A broken wing. A broken boy catching sounds. But catching sounds, you never know what you might hear. You never know who wants to be heard." I have no idea what you're talking about, and that's not a question you answer in the query. You don't even answer what a sound catcher is. Without these details, I'm afraid this query sounds somewhat generic, and it isn't something I'm interested in pursuing.
- October 22, 2011 at 9:18 AM


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subset: commoncrawl


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I am trying to set the width and height of my image (which is actually just a label with an icon) as the same as the width and height of my screen so that it can cover the entire frame.
My code is:
Unfortunately this doesn't actually seem to affect the width and height values of my label in the free design layout, and i need to use this layout so that i may place other images in the frame without being too restricted. I have tried placing this in the customized code section of my label, to no avail, aswell as the componentshow event.Toolkit toolkit = Toolkit.getDefaultToolkit();
Dimension dim = toolkit.getScreenSize();
menubkg.setPreferredSize(new Dimension(dim.width, dim.height));
Any suggestions on what i might do/what i might be doing wrong?


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I thought it only fitting since Tori Spelling was my FIRST Style Maven feature that her husband Dean; the other half of their dynamic duo be featured as my first Male Maven of Style.
For those of you don't know Dean he is a Canadian born actor of both film and television but he is most famous for being a reality TV star. A co-star with his wife in "Tori & Dean: INN LOVE" and the co-star of the hit Oxygen reality series "Tori & Dean: Home Sweet Hollywood". Season 6 of T&D HSH airs in late summer or early fall. They are currently taping.
He is also the co-star of the NEW creative reality program "Tori & Dean: STORI Book Weddings", where he and Tori design weddings for lucky couples ~ It premiers April 6th on Oxygen (check your local listings). He told me about an upcoming episode when they designed a Marie Antoinette themed wedding. He wanted fans to know, "We did a lot with vintage clothing for the Mary Antoinette themed wedding episode – models walking with authentic clothes from the period, not costume reproductions."
Dean and Tori have recently launched a new business venture in Los Angeles called :InvenTORI. It is a lifestyle store filled with antiques, collectibles, children and pet items. If you are in the LA area go check it out at 13826 Ventura Blvd N Sherman Oaks. Apparently they ship all over the US as well - call 818-981-1007
Visit the stores NEW website: www.InvenTORI.com
In the works is an "All things Dean" website. Users can log on to get parenting tips and advice, recipes, information about motorcycles and MORE. Essentially all of Dean's favorite things in one virtual space. No URL or launch date has been released so STAY Tuned. I think it will be a unique spin for a mens site. It's not just up to moms to care for children, cook, get pedicures or shop! Hip Dad's are on board too! and it's about time!
When he is not bringing his reality to our Tv's, opening stores or launching web sites he is a devoted father of 3 children (Jack, Liam & Stella),
A doting husband to Tori, she is the ROCK to his ROLL. I think their Love story is FABULOUS. Rarely does one find their "other self" - they remind me of my husband and I actually. Under the strangest circumstances, not so perfect timing and by really love and sheer will to be together they have build such a beautiful relationship and family. PLUS they seem like a hell of a good time and great friends! The 4 of us should get together for dinner some time ;)What I love the most about them is their honesty and lack of pretension. We all saw on last season of T&D that their relationship, just like everyone, has its up's and downs. Tori referred to it in her latest book (Uncharted TerriTORI) as an "Ebb and Flow". It is this real quality that I identify with. I love how they live their life publicly and do what THEY want in spite of the ever present glare of the spotlight and generic societal pressure.
He is also a motorcycle enthusiast and racer. He mentioned to me that "I'm also into riding obviously but Vintage and Vintage replica mototcycles like the
Tramp Scrambler; A throwback to Steve Mcqueen – Ducati biposo a vintage racer Vintage café racers – that movement is really making a comeback – 60/70 motorcyles taking them and making them into cool works of art."
AND a man with a giant heart to support charitable causes for animals, various children's charities and the NOH8 campaign and their quest for equality.
With this full plate he still has time to be a Male Maven of Style and show the guys how it's done with his relaxed, RockNRoll chic style aesthetic.
I was pleased to have the opportunity to speak to Dean by phone and ask him my Style Maven questions:
LISA: Can you describe your personal Style aesthetic AND attitude about fashion?
DEAN: A little edgy, RockNroll, a bit of modern thrown in. I created a new term "VINROMOR" – Vintage RocknRoll Modern. Fashion has become a lot more fun since meeting T (Tori). I love shopping. It is a great thing about our relationship. T has helped me bring out my true style. I was preppy before I met her and she has helped tap into the real me and my real style.
LISA: What are the key components / pieces in your closet?
DEAN: The key components of my closet are a Black suit, nice white shirt and tie, dress shoes, great beat up pair of boots, cool jeans, a couple vintage t-shirts and jackets. I like jackets with a military influence to it. I really like to Mix and match. I also love a wallet on a chain, when I'm riding my bike it makes me feel like a rock star (Laughs).
I also wear a lot of Cardigans now. They can be dressed up or down. Ascots are also making a comeback; I am tired of the tie. An Ascot worn with a really nice white shit with open collar is very bratpack-ish . If it is a suit and tie event ROCK an ascot.
I also Love Vintage jackets. T got me a vintage jacket that had been upcycled/recycled from 3 Vintage jackets and made into one. It is my favorite piece.
LISA: How do you feel about Vintage Clothing and Accessories?
DEAN: I LOVE vintage clothing. I can't seem to find my size often times as I am 6' 3 and a big guy. I don't know if it is sizing from the era's or if all the larger ones have been picked over. I love the set of Italian leather overnight bags I got at a Vintage shop in New York. I do Love vintage accessories too; cufflinks, ties, and sunglasses. I bought Vintage plaid short sleeved shirts, about 10 of them for $19/ea that I rock with jeans and boots. I recently got a pair of Vintage cowboy boots and I love Vintage leather jackets.
LISA: What are you wearing this Spring/Summer? Tell our readers the key elements for your S/S 2011 wardrobe.
DEAN: I live in shorts. Board shorts (Volcom) and cargo shorts. I'm trying to keep my colors solid for Spring/Summer. I am Staying away from patterns, I feel I have grown out of them a bit. Vintage looking t-shirts (He LOVES his EVOLUTION VINTAGE T-shirts: He has both BLACK & WHITE). Flip Flops w painted toes. Classic colors – charger orange, Chevy nova blue, gunmetal, camo. I used to wear a lot of black but I'm exploring colors now.
LISA: If you had one piece of STYLE advice for Women what would it be?
DEAN: Whatever the outfit (corporate, conservative, or edgy) ALWAYS try and find something that will accentuate your best feature. That is really sexy. I love when T wears something lower cut; she has amazing cleavage obviously but she has a beautiful neck and chest. Highlight your best assets ladies it is hot and sexy.
LISA: If you had one piece of STYLE advice for MEN what would it be?
DEAN: Take Chance. Change it up a bit. Like my toe nails I am off of black and have moved into a lot of colors. Also substitute an ascot for a traditional tie. It is a very retro look as I said before with an open collar and an ascot. They are making a come back!
LISA: Men seem to need a little extra help when it comes to their wardrobe. What would be your recommendation for 3 stylish staples for their closets?
DEAN:1) Black suit
2) Jeans
3) Boots
LISA: Tell me about your tattoos. They are such a big part of your style and VIBE! Any advice for people considering getting one?
DEAN: They are ALL personal. The big coy fish is Tori, the Tiger is me and baby coy fish represent the kids. They are all black and white but I want to get the coy fish coloured to represent the masculine and feminine. Advice: If u r going to get a tatt – make sure it is something personal, you will have it the rest of your life. The Tweety bird's and Yosemite Sam you are going to regret.
A Look at Dean's STYLE: CLICK ON IMAGES TO ENLARGE
Evolution Vintage T-shirt in White ~ Get the look @ http://www.evolution-vintage.com/ (Women's T-shirts are also available)
Thanks Dean for a great chat! May you inspire your male counterparts all over the world to evolve and find their true style.
Follow Dean on Twitter: www.twitter.com/deanracer


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Hi. Few years ago I made a tattoo. As a youngster I just picked up one of them which I liked (visually)- didn't know the meaning of it... And now I would like to know the true meaning of this tattoo. I did some researches and found out the first word means "wolf", the second one "luck" or "brings luck"- but according to chinese and many different types of luck I would to know exacly the meaning. I would appreciate any help and suggestions. Thank you all. Here is how the tattoo looks like:
Tattoo's meaning
Discuss the Chinese language.
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The film Muqaddar Ka Sikandar (1978) starred Amitabh Bachchan, Vinod Khanna, Raakhi, Rekha, and Amjad Khan, had music by Kalyanji-Anandji, and lyrics by Anjaan. Each song in the film was memorable, but if I had to pick one, it would be my all-time favorite Amitabh song, O Saathi Re.
The song begins about three minutes into the video, and the essence of the little talk at the outset is that the speaker (Sikandar) is being praised and rewarded for a charitable contribution to orphans. After noting that had he known he would be praised in public, that he wouldn't be at the event, he suggests that he hasn't done anyone a favor, since he spent his life as an orphan. And in all his loneliness, it is this song that he cherishes and trusts for cheer when most needed. It is a song that he was introduced to by a companion (who she is, is anyone's guess). Here it is then:
Here are the lyrics and my translation:


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Doug Tuttle (right) retired with 36 years' service to United Bank and was recognized by officials and staff at a reception last week. He is shown with his wife Lisa, and son and daughter-in-law William and Brandy Tuttle who are expecting a child in September.
Tuttle feted upon retirement from United Bank
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Hi All,
I have created an index on a partition table. But the index is in N/A status, Index is composite index (on 6 columns). All columns are there in table.
How can i make it in valid status ?
Thanks in advance
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Thread: indexes are in N/A status
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2013 Holiday Gift Guide: Gadgets
Adults like toys too, so if you're on the lookout for a memorable gift for your spouse or just treating yourself to an early Christmas present, a cool gadget is always a great option. Of course, prices run the gamut in this arena, so you'll need to be careful, but whether you're shopping for the latest and greatest tablet or something to please that audiophile in your life, you can find something that fits almost any budget.
Click on the image next to each item to purchase it online, and for more gift ideas, check out the other categories in our Holiday Gift Guide.
Seiki 4K TV
4K TV is very real. By that, I don't mean that it simply exists, but rather that it is the heir apparent to HDTV as the next format of television which will become standard. However, you should be cautious. 4K is an improvement over HDTV like Blu-ray is an improvement over DVD. That is to say that it's noticeably better looking, but not necessarily mind blowing. Not to mention, the technology is still in its infancy. That being said, if you want to get in on 4K now and don't want to pay a price too ridiculous to do so, the absolute best way to go is Seiki's 4K model, which routinely goes for around $1,000 for its 50-inch model and, for a limited time, around $500 for the 39-inch model on Amazon. It's the cheapest 4K on the market to be sure, but having sampled it earlier this year at CES, I can say with some confidence that it is far from a bargain model in quality. Sooner or later, keeping up with the Jonses will mean buying a 4K TV. If you need that to be sooner, the Seiki is the way to go.
Sceptre LED HDTV
By now, most people have some sort of HDTV in their home, but if you still haven't gotten around to upgrading and don't have the money to splurge on a higher-end brand, Sceptre makes some pretty nice budget-friendly LED and LCD HDTVs that are worth checking out. The company's newest 40-inch model features a FullHD crystal clear viewable area, 1920×1080 panel resolution and 3 HDMI ports for as cheap as $250 depending on where you look. And if you don't need all the fancy add-ons (like Wi-Fi, entertainment apps and 3D capabilities) that some of the more expensive brands feature these days, that's a really good deal for a TV that isn't too far off in terms of quality. It also boasts a lightweight and slim design, which makes it perfect for mounting on a wall, and is Energy V6.0 compliant, with an estimated yearly energy cost of about $13. You really can't ask for more from an HDTV that costs less than most tablets.
Apple iPad Air
Ah, the iPad. Since the very first iPad model was released, gift guides have featured one iPad model or another, and for very good reason. However, the iPad market has grown more crowded than it once was with many consumers wondering just what model is right for them amongst a sea of options. While it's difficult to account for personal needs, if you're looking for the best iPad period it's hard to argue against the iPad Air. Its $499 price tag may be daunting, but for it you get a model that is in a league of its own among full-sized tablets. No other product in the field can possibly compare to the iPad Air's enticing paper-thin design, crystal clear display or flex-worthy processing muscle. The debate on the best overall tablet period is not an easy one, but if price is not an issue, then it's a conversation that begins and ends with the iPad Air.
You can follow us on Twitter and Facebook for content updates. Also, sign up for our email list for weekly updates and check us out on Google+ as well.
Posted in: Gadgets, Lifestyle, Stuff to Buy
Tags: 2013 holiday gift guide, Apple iPad Air, bem Wireless, best gadget gifts, Christmas gifts, Gadget gifts, gadgets for guys, gift guide, gift guide for men, Goole Nexus, Holiday Gift Guide, Karma, Seiki 4K TV, Soul headphones, Sync by 50, Wren V5 Wireless Sound System


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Who wears medical gloves? Caregivers, Healthcare Professionals, Surgeons, Lab
Techs, Catheter Users, Ostimates, Dentists, Pharmacists, Rescue Workers, Police
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Nitrile Gloves - Protein-free, latex free, high barrier protection, chemical resistant,
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(CNN) – As Katie Couric gets set to leave CBS News after five years in the anchor chair, it doesn't appear as if Sarah Palin will be sending any flowers.
Appearing on Fox News Tuesday, Palin mocked the CBS newswoman who told People Magazine she is looking forward to a new position that will facilitate "multi-dimensional storytelling."
"Yeah, and I hear that she wants to now engage in more 'multi-dimensional story telling' versus I guess just the 'straight on, read into the, that teleprompter screen story telling,'" Palin said. "More power to her. I wish her well in her - 'multi-dimensional story telling.'"
Palin has repeatedly made clear she is still no fan of Couric, whose interview with Palin produced one of the most memorable political foibles of the 2008 presidential campaign.
In a series of interviews with Couric authorized by the McCain campaign, Palin stumbled over a number of questions, most memorably when asked, "When it comes to establishing your world view…what newspapers and magazines did you regularly read?"
Palin appeared unable to name a single publication – a performance for which she was much maligned – and later said she found the question insulting, as well as emblematic of a liberal slant in the mainstream media.
Palin acts like a petulant 12 year-old! She's a schoolyard bully who never grew up!!!
This would be as opposed to reading off your hand?
Sarah once again proving that she's a class act. NOT!
".....and later said she found the question insulting, as well as emblematic of a liberal slant in the mainstream media."
How in heck is asking a potential vice-presidential candidate what newspapers and magazines do they read a liberal slant
to mainstream media? This lady is unbelievable. With all the highly intelligent women graduating from the most prestigious
schools in the country and many with advanced degrees in political scicence....this is the best candidate that the GOP could come up with? No wonder they lost the election in '08. this woman literally sickens me. Even "faux" news doesn't even take her seriously. she's like a case of bad gas.....just irritating and embarrassing......
GO away you clueless pinhead and your sheeple followers. You have bilked the public and filled your coffers full enough off of those that know even less than you do. And while you don't know it or care, you and your followers continue to make the U.S. more of a laughing stock than George W. Bush.
So Couric stayed at CBS for five years and did a decent job of it. How long did Palin last as governor again?
Sounds to me like MIss Mama Grizzly can not handle the fact that Ms Couric exposed the half-governor as a mindless, uninformed twit. Grow up lady – face the fact you are irrelevant in the modern political debate and arena.
As usual, Palin reveals herself as the petty, nasty, vindictive person she really is. We all know that it wasn't Courics fault that Sarah Palin revealed herself to be ignorant ! It wasn't a "trick" question, any person should be able to tell what they like to read in a matter of seconds..you know if you read or not. Palin wasn't even mentally fast enough to lie and make up some credible publications, So to this day, Palin hates Couric and gleefully crows if she thinks Couric is having problems with her career. What a shallow, stupid, hateful person this woman is! Is this really the new face of the Republican party?? If so, someone should start a new party with intelligent and responsible people, this one may be too far gone.
Girlfriend all you had to do to gain power (heaven help us) was to answer a reporter's question. It wasn't that hard. I believe, most everyone knows what they read if they read at all. Again, it's just too gosh darn hard when you are not being real.
Sarah, go back to your trailer, you whiny loser. You make me sick every time you open your trap.
Whatever her multi-dimensional story telling ability, Couric sure made you look an idiot, Sarah. Although by the look of it, Palin doesn't need someone else to do that for her.
Good luck katie......she needs to do something as her ratings were in the can at CBS. Say what you want......be I still love Sarah.
Wow! Sarah Palin does not like Katie Couric. What a breaking piece of news. Stop covering her. She does not comprehend, on any level, foreign or domestic issues. She is verbose without any intellectual contribution to any topic. And, of course, all the irony, when she does jump in any debate. Whether it is her "Why me?" when she blames the media for her ignorance or exploitation or now, when her own "storytelling" show on Fox was pilfered from other news reports.
She is now irrelevant and she fights to stay in the mix.
Palin should go home where she belongs. That woman is only be trouble for the country. She has no clue of what she is doing or saying. No matter what she says, she still proves that she does not belong in politics or anywhere near a seat of power.
She does not represent the people or the country. She represents the image of what the country should NEVER be.
No comparison between these two women: class (Couric) vs classless (Palin)!


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It's been a while since I've done one of these.
The Cardinals made a move to shore up their out field D and opened a pretty big hole at 3B. I'm curious to see how they fill it.
Filed under: baseball, Trade Tree | Tagged: Adam Kennedy, Angels, baseball, Cardinals, David Freese, Fernando Salas, Jim Edmonds, Kent Bottenfield, Peter Bourgos, Randal Grichuk, Trade Tree | Leave a comment »


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When it comes to defining the perfect climate, a multitude of factors have to be considered Do you prefer rain or snow? Are you a sunbather or a snowboarder? Do you enjoy the sauna-like heat of the desert? Or would you prefer that your hair poof out like a cloud every time you walk outside?
While it's true that many people favor low humidity, little rainfall, mild temperatures and a high percentage of sunny days, obviously not everyone agrees. Otherwise, we'd have all of nearly 7 billion people crammed onto the 177-square-mile (459 square kilometers) island of Palau.
So rather than follow the lead of popular opinion and risk excluding the non-beach lovers among you, we at aim to please by selecting 10 countries with a little something for everyone. Whether you're a sun worshipper or a puddle stomper, a surfer or a skier, the following countries will have you covered.
In our first country, you can even hit the surf and the slopes in the same day.
If you like hot and humid, you'll love Argentina.
Then again, if you like the cold and lots of snow, you'll also love Argentina.
This South American country's range of elevations -- it lays claim to both the Western Hemisphere's tallest peak and its lowest point -- practically assures a variety of climates to suit most every taste [source: CIA World Factbook]. The elevation difference is so great that average summer temperatures can differ by as much as 40 degrees F from north to south [source: Summerfield].
If it's snow you seek, you'll want to stick to the 3,000-mile-long country's southern end, where you'll find mild summers and cold winters with abundant snow. The higher elevations of the Andes mountains in the west also guarantee arctic-like temperatures.
Sun lovers can choose from one of the country's many coastal beaches in the east or head farther north to the tropical rainforests. Here the summers are hot and humid and the winters mild and dry.
Argentina's range of climates is matched by its range of landscapes. Home to 47 major glaciers, fertile grasslands and tropical rainforests, this second largest country in South America is an adventure junkie's dream [source: National Geographic]. From Iguazu falls in the lush jungles of the north to the volcanic peaks, valleys and marshes of windy Patagonia in the south, Argentina truly does have something for everyone.
While you may not want to leave this South American paradise, you won't have to travel far to find the next country on our list. But be prepared to stay: It was ranked the top place to retire by International Living Magazine in 2009.
Don't let this country's name fool you. Despite its location on the equator, Ecuador's elevation helps temper the heat. The city of Cuenca, which is located 8,000 feet (2,438 meters) high in the Andes and was ranked as the top place to retire by International Living Magazine in 2009, has spring-like weather year round [source: MSN Money].
But if spring weather isn't your thing, don't stop reading just yet. Due to the country's varied landscape, climate is dependent in large part on where you are in relation to the Andes Mountains, which bisect the country from north to south. The country has four distinct geographical regions. To the west of the Andes lie the coastal plains and a more tropical climate. These gradually rise to form the Sierra, or Andean uplands, as you move east. Here the climate is much cooler. East of the Andes are the Amazonian jungle lowlands, where the climate is tropical.
Finally, nearly 600 miles (960 kilometers) off the country's west coast, lies Ecuador's crown jewel: the Galapagos Islands. These volcanic islands are home to a plethora of wildlife found nowhere else on Earth, though the mainland has its fair share as well. While Ecuador occupies only .02 percent of the world's landmass, it contains a whopping 10 percent of its plant and animal species [source: International Living Perfect Place]. That many creatures can't be wrong: If they find Ecuador a hospitable place to live, perhaps you would too.
But don't get too comfortable. South America is home to yet another climatic paradise. Prepare to visit the "rooftop of the world."
Like the previous two South American countries, this mountainous, landlocked country located in the heart of the continent has a climate that varies with its elevation. With nearly 21, 300 feet (6,500 meters) separating its highest and lowest points, that's a lot of variation [source: CIA World Factbook].
Most of Bolivia's residents live in the capital city of La Paz, next to Lake Titicaca -- the world's highest capital and the world's highest lake, respectively. At 11,800 feet (3,600 meters), La Paz would be inhospitable without the tempering effect of the warm air coming off the lake [source: National Geographic]. Nestled among the snowy peaks of the Andes, La Paz is ideal for those seeking their weather on the cold and dry side.
To find warmer weather, you need only travel northeast to the Amazon basin. Here, the weather is humid and hot, and snow is unheard of. A wide range of unique species occupies the rainforests in this region, including numerous species of monkeys, jaguars and macaws.
Argentina also hosts an astounding diversity of ecosystems, from moist evergreen forests and tropical jungles to dry Andean valleys and savannas. Within the country's approximately 4.7-million-acre Madidi National Park alone you will find everything from glacial peaks to Amazonian rainforest. According to Parks Watch, a conservation group run by Duke University, Madidi is one of the most biologically diverse places on the planet [source: Parks Watch].
If you think Bolivia's altitude variation is impressive, prepare to be amazed. For our next stop, we're heading to the country with the most altitude variation on Earth.
While at first glance this landlocked country between China and India may seem out of place on a list of places with perfect climates, its altitude variation creates such a range of weather conditions that at least one of them is sure to satisfy. To find one that suits you, all you have to do is start at sea level and work your way up. Considering that Nepal is home to eight of the world's 10 highest peaks, though, that may take you a while [source: CIA World Factbook].
If you're like most of the country's residents, you'll settle in the central hilly region of the Kathmandu Valley or in the southern plain where summers are warm and winters mild. For cool summers and severe winters, you'll head north to the Himalaya Range and Mt. Everest, which, at 29,035 feet (8,850 meters) high, is the world's highest [source: CIA World Factbook].
A large part of Nepal is hit by monsoons during the summer season, but if you're averse to rain, all you have to do is position yourself on the northern side of the mountains. When the bulk of the country experiences torrential downpours, the region of Mustang in the north stays high and dry.
Next, we head to a country that at times seems to have more animals than it does people.
The largest of the East African countries, Tanzania is perhaps most well known as the home of Serengeti National Park, host to the longest wildlife migration on the planet and the most diverse collection of land animals [source: Serengeti]. An impressive 14 percent of the country's land area is set aside for conservation, making Tanzania a haven for the wildebeest, zebras, elephants and other animals that rely on the African plains [source: Government of Tanzania].
Tanzania can be divided into three distinct regions: the coastal plains, which are tropical; the central plateau; and the highlands. The last two are both fairly temperate. Temperatures in most of the country stay above 68 degrees F (20 degrees C) at all times, while those in the highlands range between 50 degrees F (10 degrees C) and 68 degrees F (20 degrees C) [source: Government of Tanzania].
Despite its proximity to the equator, Tanzania is able to avoid extremes in heat thanks to the cooling effects of the Indian Ocean on its eastern border as well as the breezes from 19,341-foot (5,895-meter) Mt. Kilimanjaro, which has a perpetual cover of snow and is the highest point on the African continent. Although you won't find snow anywhere else, you can always cool off in one of the country's many impressive bodies of water, including the world's second largest fresh-water lake (Lake Victoria) as well as its second deepest (Lake Tanganyika) [source: CIA World Factbook].
For our next three countries, we head north to Europe. First up: France.
The largest country in Western Europe, France has topped International Living's Quality of Life Index three years in a row [source: International Living Perfect Place]. From its sprawling grape orchards and numerous beaches to its snow-capped peaks and gently rolling hills, France does seem to have it all. Where weather is concerned, at least, it does.
With two mountain ranges and water bordering three of its sides, France is practically guaranteed to have climatic variation. In the north, the weather is on the temperate side, with cool winters and mild summers, but as you near the Mediterranean coast, the summers get much hotter. The mountain regions in the Pyrenees and the Alps, meanwhile, experience heavy snow and much colder temperatures. Winter in these regions is so idyllic that the country has been host to three winter Olympics, including the first one in 1924 [source: Olympic.org].
The climate is appealing to more than just France's people, too. With more than half of its land under cultivation, this agriculturally- rich country is the leading exporter of food in the European Union and the largest wine producer in the world. [source: National Geographic].
If you think a nice pasta dish would complement your wine, you're in luck. Next, we head to France's southern neighbor.
Italy may be better known for its pasta than its idyllic weather, but the climate of this boot-shaped peninsula in Southern Europe has been called among the best on the continent by the editors at International Living [source: International Living World's Best].
While much of Italy is mountainous, you'll also find lowland plains and gorgeous coastlines. The Amalfi Coast, along the southwestern edge of the country, has even been recognized by the United Nations as a World Heritage site [source: National Geographic]. Apart from the mainland, Italy also includes more than 70 islands, including Sicily and Sardinia, and is home to the only active volcanoes in Europe [source: National Geographic, Topinka ].
For the most part, Italy has warm, dry summers and mild winters. But in the north, where the Alps are located, the climate is cold and wet. And in the far south, it's hot and dry. The warm south is also the country's agricultural center and is known by the Italians as the Mezzogiorno, or the land of the midday sun.
Our last European stop is just a short trip to the west.
Located in southwestern Europe just north of Africa, Spain continues the trend of the previous countries and offers a little bit of everything. It borders three different bodies of water: the Bay of Biscay to the north, the Mediterranean Sea to the east and the North Atlantic to the south. It features the towering Pyrenees along its northern border with France, and it possesses many island communities scattered throughout the Mediterranean and Atlantic.
One of those groups of islands is, in fact, what landed Spain on our list. Located off the northwest coast of Africa, the Canary Islands are a top tourist destination due to their consistently pleasant temperatures that average between 64 degrees F (15 C) in winter and 75 degrees F (24 C) in summer [source: Strawberry World]. Yet they also play host to five distinct environmental zones, from sea level to snowy peaks, ensuring that the cold weather seekers won't go away disappointed. Mount Teide, a 12,198-foot (3,718-meter) volcanic peak on the island of Tenerife, for instance, is a popular skiing destination that gets up to three months of snow per year [source: CIA World Factbook, Strawberry World].
You'll also find snow in the next country on our list, along with fertile plains, deserts, mountains and rainforests ….
United States
The third largest country in the world, the United States is perhaps best summed up by one word: diverse. Not only is it home to more immigrants than any other country, but it's also home to some of the world's largest canyons, longest rivers, deepest valleys and largest lakes [source: Ratha, National Geographic].
Composed of 50 individual states and the District of Columbia, the U.S. is home to every climate imaginable. You have your tropical beaches in Hawaii and Florida, arctic tundra in Alaska, arid deserts and prairies in the west, fertile plains in the heartland, humid forests in the east and everything in between. If you can't find a climate you like it's because you're not looking.
To make it easier, the country is divided into six regions based on climate and geography. Scattered among them you'll find the Grand Canyon, the mighty Mississippi River, the majestic Rocky Mountains and the Great Lakes. You'll also come across Death Valley 282 feet (86 meters) below sea level and Mt. McKinley 20,335 feet (6,198 meters) above, as well as the tropical rainforests of Hawaii, where 89 percent of the plants and 97 percent of the animals are found nowhere else on Earth [source: CIA World Factbook, National Geographic].
Another country with an amazing presentation of diversity is our next and final stop. Prepare to head to the south-western corner of the Polynesian triangle.
New Zealand
Once you've seen New Zealand's stunning variety of scenery it comes as no surprise that film director Peter Jackson chose this incredibly beautiful nation as the backdrop for his "Lord of the Ring" film trilogy. The country's volcanic peaks, rolling pastures, lush forests and icy glaciers lend themselves beautifully to the mythical world described by J.R.R. Tolkien.
But this series of mountainous islands in the southwestern Pacific Ocean is more than just a good stand-in for Mordor. The variety of landscapes and climates found here is more befitting of a much larger country, not one barely the size of the state of Colorado. Highly conservation-minded, New Zealand can at times appear to be simply a series of one national park after another. The remote Te Urewera National Park on the North Island is famous for its lakes and forests while Rakiura National Park in the country's southern reaches is prized for its sandy beaches and inlets. In between, you'll find parks featuring everything from geothermal vents and rainforests to deserts and glaciers.
With all this variation, it's obvious that the climate is equally diverse. While much of the country has a temperate climate, there are sharp contrasts depending on the region. It's warm and tropical in the north, for instance, becoming more temperate as you go south. The mountainous regions have alpine conditions, with areas west of the mountains being much wetter than those in the east.
So wet or dry, cold or hot, windy or calm, these 10 countries with perfect climates should satisfy even the pickiest among you. Take your pick: You can't go wrong.
For more on ideal climates and related topics, peruse the links on the next page.
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Santa Ana winds blow during California's dangerous dry season. HowStuffWorks explains how they whip up wildfires that can ravage thousands of acres.
Related Articles
More Great Links
- Carpenter, Mackenzie. "Where's the most perfect climate?" Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. July 9, 2006. (August 25, 2010) http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/06190/703926-37.stm
- Central Intelligence Agency. "The World Factbook." 2009. (August 25, 2010) https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/index.html
- Government of Tanzania. "The United Republic of Tanzania National Website." 2010. (August 25, 2010)http://www.tanzania.go.tz/naturalresourcesf
- International Living. "Find Your Perfect Place to Live Overseas." 2010. (August 25, 2010) http://www1.internationalliving.com/sem/lifestyle/where-to-live/report/ppc.html
- International Living. "The World's Best Climates." 2010. (August 25, 2010) http://www1.internationalliving.com/sem/lifestyle/best-climate/report/ppc.html
- Lonely Planet. "Canary Islands." Oct. 22, 2009. (August 25, 2010) http://www.lonelyplanet.com/canary-islands/weather
- Mackintosh, Lesley. "Overview of New Zealand Climate." National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research. 2008. (August 25, 2010) http://www.niwa.co.nz/education-and-training/schools/resources/climate/overview
- MSN Money. "The World's Best Places to Retire." Oct. 13, 2009. (August 25, 2010) http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/RetirementandWills/RetireInStyle/the-worlds-best-places-to-retire.aspx
- National Geographic. "Countries." 2010. (August 25, 2010) http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/travel/countries/?source=NavTravCount
- New Zealand tourism guide. "Lord of the Rings: New Zealand." 2010. (August 25, 2010) http://www.tourism.net.nz/lord-of-the-rings.html
- Olympic.org. "Olympic Games." 2009. (August 25, 2010) http://www.olympic.org/en/content/Olympic-Games/
- Parks Watch. Madidi National Park and IMNA." 2004. (August 25, 2010) http://www.parkswatch.org/parkprofile.php?l=eng&country=bol&park=mdnp&page=inf
- Ratha, Dilip and Zhimei Xu. "Migration and Remittances Factbook." World Bank. 2006. (August 25, 2010) http://siteresources.worldbank.org/INTPROSPECTS/Resources/334934-1181678518183/Top10.pdf.html
- Serengeti National Park. "Serengeti." 2000. (August 25, 2010) http://www.serengeti.org/index.html
- Summerfield, Margaret. "How to Find the Perfect Climate." PathFinder. Feb. 10, 2010. (August 25, 2010) http://www.pathfinderinternational.net/news/view/how_to_find_the_perfect_climate/
- Strawberry World. "Tenerife." 2010. (August 25, 2010) http://www.canaries-live.com/UK/index.html
- Topinka, Lyn. "Italy Volcanoes and Volcanics." United States Geological Survey. August 16, 2000. (August 25, 2010) http://vulcan.wr.usgs.gov/Volcanoes/Italy/description_italy_volcanics.html
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre. "Teide National Park." 2010. (August 25, 2010) http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1258


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text: Job Discussion Forums :: View topic - Between Iraq and a Hard Place........ Get TEFL Certified & Start Your Adventure Today! Job Discussion Forums"The Internet's Meeting Place for ESL/EFL Students and Teachers from Around the World!" FAQ Search Memberlist Usergroups Register Profile Log in to check your private messages Log in Between Iraq and a Hard Place........ Goto page 1, 2 Next Job Discussion Forums Forum Index -> General Discussion View previous topic :: View next topic Author Message bnixJoined: 16 Jan 2003Posts: 645 Posted: Mon Apr 21, 2003 3:59 am Post subject: Between Iraq and a Hard Place........ I heard this "zinger" on the news several times,most notably from newscasters(Hey!Who said we are humorless ?Newscasters can be humorous,too!) Brings to mind several other idioms expressing a dilemma beteeen two choices,neither one very acceptable.The old"caught between the Devil and the dark blue sea" is heard sometimes...but since people don't put much stock in Old Scratch much any more,it has lost some of its original sting. There is the classical"caught between Scylla and Charybdis(I am NOT sure of the spelling...one was a whirlpool...the other some kind of a seamonster...maybe you classical enthusiasts can help me out on that one...I can never remember which is which.After all.it is not something that comes up in everyday conversations.) Then of course,there is getting caught up that FAMOUS(s--t) creek without a paddle.What a predicament.Sometimes it is bowlderized(?) to "up the creek". Then of course,there are the idioms which have become either politically incorrect or otherwise socially unacceptable.One of the more obscure ones is"Now,wouldn't that harelip the Devil?".... a more colorful example of "Well,don't that(or even better""thet") beat all"? I believe the medical term for harelip is "cleft palate"...could be mistaken on that one...though...so don't all hurl your brickbats at once I will not mention the state where I have heard this one most of the time,except to say,no it is NOT New Jersey.I think the state in question has already suffered enough opprobrium,outrageous slings and arrows,etc.on this forum and others.But I bet you can narrow it down pretty well. And of course,people who do not have the facility of speech are now referred to as "mute("deaf and mute") while at one time they were referred to as "deaf and dumb".and there was that old childhood choosing chant that began"Eeny-meeny miney mo...."...wonder if they have "cleaned "that one up to make it more politically acceptable? Have fun,guys.Remember to have at least one non-TESOL option to fall back on... .And watch out for those "cranberry merchants"(conmen).There are "cranberry merchants"galore in this business... Back to top RogerJoined: 19 Jan 2003Posts: 9138 Posted: Mon Apr 21, 2003 4:36 am Post subject: Bnix, "between Iraq and a hard place...", a new coinage, not a very intelligent one, to my way ofthinking! Maybe there was a Hard Rock Cafe in Baghdad before the war? Scylla was a six-headed monster, indeed, and Charybdis (correct spelling!) was a whirlpool. - Up a reek without a paddle - those navigators must be in a tight spot indeed! - - Caught between the Devil and the deep blue sea makes more sense caught between the Devil and the "dar" blue sea... How about "up a gum tree"? Very sticky! Back to top bnixJoined: 16 Jan 2003Posts: 645 Posted: Mon Apr 21, 2003 5:01 am Post subject: "All Gummed Up? Roger.I have never heard"up a gum tree"...but maybe that is because the expression is in use where there a lot of gum trees?Australia? Back to top omar805Joined: 18 Jan 2003Posts: 69Location: Thailand Posted: Mon Apr 21, 2003 5:15 am Post subject: more than a koala can "bare"! Is there more to that "up a gum tree" one? Back to top johnslatJoined: 21 Jan 2003Posts: 13859Location: Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA Posted: Mon Apr 21, 2003 5:23 am Post subject: horny Dear bxix et al, Let's not forget - " On the horns of a dilemma " and " Hobson's choice ". Maybe even " Six of one, half-a-dozen of another ". Regards, John Back to top bnixJoined: 16 Jan 2003Posts: 645 Posted: Mon Apr 21, 2003 5:33 am Post subject: Dilemma.... Ah,yes,and "IMPALED on the horns of a dilemma". I am unfamiliar with the Hobson's Choice one.Sounds like there might be an interesting story behind it. Was there a particular Hobson who prompted this idiom? Let's not forget "Catch 22."I have read that Joseph Heller originally intended to call it "Catch 18"....but there was already a novel out by Leon Uris called "Mila 18." And did anyone see the WEIRD movie version of Catch 22?...among other people in it....Art Garfunkel(?) Back to top RogerJoined: 19 Jan 2003Posts: 9138 Posted: Mon Apr 21, 2003 5:44 am Post subject: "Up a gum tree", seems to be less well-known these days. Probably coined during Britain's colonial days. I can imagine a British civil servant somewhere in Malaya, running from a lion and seeing a gum tree... I just checked it in my Cobuild Dictionary of Idioms. It's there, but listed as "old-fashioned". Back to top johnslatJoined: 21 Jan 2003Posts: 13859Location: Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA Posted: Mon Apr 21, 2003 6:39 am Post subject: Here's the catch Dear bnix, Hobson's choice " arises from a "hostler" (one who rents horses) named "Hobson" who forbad renters from reserving a particular horse. Instead, renters had to accept the next horse available. Hence "Hobson's choice" means no choice at all. ". Got that off the Net - to be honest I'd had no idea how the phrase originated. " Catch-22 " - now there's a coincidence. I just mentioned that novel ( along with " Alice in Wonderland " ) in the Saudi Arabia forum as suggested reading for anyone thinking of coming to that country. Both books might help prepare the reader for immersion into an environment that ( to us ) often seems absurd and weird. And yes - I saw the movie, many moons ago. Directed by Mike Nichols, as I recall - also with Alan Arkin, John Voigt, Martin Sheen and a cameo by Orson Wells. Actually, I liked the film, but it certainly wasn't the book. By the way, do you remember just what " Catch-22 " was: " There was only one catch and that was Catch-22, which specified that a concern for one's safety in the face of dangers that were real and immediate was the process of a rational mind. Orr was crazy and could be grounded. All he had to do was ask; and as soon as he did, he would no longer be crazy and would have to fly more missions. Orr would be crazy to fly more missions and sane if he didn't, but if he was sane he had to fly them. If he flew them he was crazy and didn't have to; but if he didn't want to he was sane and had to. Yossarian was moved very deeply by the absolute simplicity of this clause of Catch-22 and let out a respectful whistle. "That's some catch, that Catch-22," he observed. "It's the best there is," Doc Daneeka agreed. " Also taken from the Net. Regards, John Back to top bnixJoined: 16 Jan 2003Posts: 645 Posted: Mon Apr 21, 2003 7:04 am Post subject: Okay..Johnslat...Very Interesting Ok.Thanks.I thought it would probably be an interesting story.And now I know what a hostler is ,too.A few other occupations one does not hear much about any more: Fletcher--he "fletched" the arrow shafts...with feathers Cooper-A barrel maker Luthier a maker of stringed instruments(I believe) Chandler(?) As for the books you mentioned,"Alice in Wonderland",and "Catch 22"....great for preparing for the Kingdom.If memory serves right,some character(maybe the Red Queen?) in "Alice" yells "Off with her head!" Yeah...Saudi...and then of course there is that mythical(although apocryphal) book...'Fun in the Magic Kingdom"(500 blank pages). So,anyway,thanks for the interesting information. Back to top roganJoined: 03 Mar 2003Posts: 416Location: at home, in France Posted: Mon Apr 21, 2003 7:08 am Post subject: Chandler - supplied sailing ships with goods, food and equipment. Back to top arioch36Joined: 21 Jan 2003Posts: 3589 Posted: Mon Apr 21, 2003 1:04 pm Post subject: Caught betwen Iraq and a hard place..thanx, I hadn't heard. Of course, I think that's where America Russia, and especially france are right now. Never heard of the Luthier. Now I will have to try to look it up. Johnslat, thanx, it was so good reading that, that takes me back to places I haven't been for a while. Of course, you aren't allowed to buy any books in China except books about Jack Welch and Bill gates. Dare I ask...I was a delinquent high school/college boy...did any one take any side excursions, uh, intersting trips while watching some of these movies. Ever watch Mary Poppins in an altered state? Heston had some non-BenHur movies. Argh!! You terrible people. Know I am thinking I need to read some real books and watch a intersting movie!!! What country can I find such wonderful things??? Back to top johnslatJoined: 21 Jan 2003Posts: 13859Location: Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA Posted: Mon Apr 21, 2003 1:27 pm Post subject: Altered states and M bags Dear arioch36, Saw 2001 in an " altered state " back in the late 60s. Don't know if I'd dare to do that with Mary Poppins - way too freaky a concept. I'd never hack it in China with that book situation. It was about that bad here when I first arrived in '80, but I used to ship an " M " bag of books to myself every summer. Can you do that in China? You buy your books and then go to a post office in the States. Ask for an " M " bag and they'll give you this duffel bag/seabag thing. Mail it to yourself - it goes by ship ( so it's cheap, used to cost me about $30 to send ) so it takes a while to arrive, about 2 1/2 to 3 months here. But, it just occurred to me - are you from the States? And, if so, do you get to go there on holiday? Maybe all this advice is useless. Regards, John Back to top SueHJoined: 01 Feb 2003Posts: 1022Location: Northern Italy Posted: Wed Apr 23, 2003 12:03 pm Post subject: 'between the Devil and the deep blue sea'... if I recall correctly 'the devil' was a seam between the planks in old wooden sailing vessels, just above the waterline. In an era without lifejackets or sailors with swimming ability it was not a place to be! No. 99 in a series of 1000 not very useful bits of information.... Back to top arioch36Joined: 21 Jan 2003Posts: 3589 Posted: Wed Apr 23, 2003 1:54 pm Post subject: Sue, thanx, I never heard that. This thread has been some of the best education I have gotten in China. Yeah, I mailed me a duffle bag, but I've used it up, and many of the books were for my students. Trying to hold out 'til the summer vacation, which in China will come one week early. They cancelled the week long May holiday due to the SARS scare. eight people died this week. 1,000's died from other pneumonias during the same time frame. They are are spraying every classroom with nice toxic chemicals. So maybe I will be to brain-dead to read any books other then the Cat in the Hat Back to top bnixJoined: 16 Jan 2003Posts: 645 Posted: Thu Apr 24, 2003 1:45 am Post subject: The Devil You Say! Thanks to Sue H.for setting me straight on the meaning of "devil"("a seam between the planks in wooden sailing vessels") in the term "between the devil and the dark(deep?) blue sea".The info is not uselesss at all.I had always thought the devil referred to was literally THE DEVIL...the EVIL ONE.Old Scratch. Another one involving the devil:"Speak of the Devil and he will appear"(said when you are talking about a person,and that person suddenly shows up unexpectedly)...in Korea...there is a different twist on the expression:"Speak of the tiger and he will appear." And then there was the person known as the "printer's devil"...an apprentice in the printing(typsetting ) trade...I believe...and there is also an expression"May the Devil take the hindmost"..I am not exactly sure what that one means....maybe"everyone for himself"? As for Arioch's post, it is good to hear the UNVARNISHED truth about the SARS thing in China from one who is actually there.I have been receiving a few job offers from places in China,that try to play down the SARS thing, of course.Sorry,guys,but uh,probably not.Arioch...take care of your health.Thanks for the info. Back to top Display posts from previous: All Posts1 Day7 Days2 Weeks1 Month3 Months6 Months1 Year Oldest FirstNewest First Job Discussion Forums Forum Index -> General Discussion All times are GMTGoto page 1, 2 Next Page 1 of 2 Jump to: Select a forum Where to Begin----------------General DiscussionNewbie ForumCurrent Events ForumTechnology ForumOnline Teaching Forum Africa Forums----------------General Africa Forum Asia Forums----------------CambodiaChina (Job-related Posts Only)China (Off-Topic)Hong KongIndiaIndonesiaJapanMalaysiaPhilippinesSingaporeTaiwanThailandGeneral Asia ForumVietnam Caribbean Forums----------------General Caribbean Forum Europe Forums----------------Czech RepublicFranceGermanyGreeceItalyMacedonia and the BalkansPolandRomaniaRussia & C.I.S.SpainTurkeyUkraineUnited KingdomGeneral Europe Forum Latin America Forums----------------ArgentinaBrazilChileColombiaCosta RicaMexicoMexico (off-topic)PeruGeneral Latin America Forum The Middle East Forums----------------BahrainEgyptIsraelKuwaitOmanQatarSaudi ArabiaUnited Arab EmiratesGeneral Middle East Forum North America Forums----------------General North America Forum Oceania----------------Australia/New Zealand You cannot post new topics in this forumYou cannot reply to topics in this forumYou cannot edit your posts in this forumYou cannot delete your posts in this forumYou cannot vote in polls in this forum This page is maintained by the one and only Dave Sperling. 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Academic Technology has launched a compaign for technology applications that are available to students. On a weekly basis, technology apps will be posted on suite 410's door as well as the AT blog spot. Be on the look out for technology applications that are available to you.
This week check out: "Underscore Notify" for iPhone and iPads
The app is $1.99 and allows students to take notes in the following ways:
- Type notes anywhere on screen; multiple font and text color options
- Draw and highlight with multiple pen and color options
- Import PDF files or other documents to annotate and highlight
- Import images as backgrounds or to illustrate notes
- Use the built-in web browser to clip webpages straight into your notes
- Use the built-in maps function to clip google maps straight into your notes
- Add audio recordings to your notes
- Built-in web server – you can share your screen live to anyone with a web browser
- VGA out- you can display your screen live as you create your notes or present pre-made pages
- Hand-writing recognition (with PhatPad in-app purchase) – translates handwritten notes into typed text.
This week check out: "Extensive Notes Notepad" for Android
The app is FREE and allows students to take notes in the following ways:
- Notepad features nearly 100 different notes icons so you can customize statusbar notes to your liking rather than be restricted to a single icon
- Note attachments such as PDF, word, Powerpoint
- Extensive notes notepad can easily import CSV files as todo and via SD card & web URL
- Notepad you can also prioritize notes according to you and the order of importance within your everyday life
- Sort notes for easier filterings
- Support for multiple audio notes
- Add audio recordings to your notes
- Export notes as text and easily export the entire note database to SD card.


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Hello everyone! Iam from USA
I came across Legend of CaoCao .. i think i was searching for games and i saw a screenshot of it and it looked awesome
and i played it. and i beat it all three play throughs (good, neutral, evil)
its the funnest game ive played in a long time
and i see on here there was a bunch of .. and some REALLY AWESOME looking mods on XYCQ
but all the links are broken and XYCQ doesnt seem to load for me .. maybe because its asian site and iam from USA ??? or its just really old links
it would be great if any of you know where to get these awesome mod games ?
i seen someone post about a Legend of Kongming remake ? id love to see that
and this game looks really cool
"The Tale of the Rise of Tang--Stories of Wagang Mountain"
thats gotta exist somewhere on the web right?? .. but its probably in like chinese characters language?? i dont know how id search for that .. i google it and its like 3 results unrelated to ROTK
could anyone help me find those or link to them.. or reupload them??


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our mailing list. It's so wizard.
Dirty Projectors
13 April, 2013 4:19 am
Diplo and company appear as Major Lazer on Late Night With Jimmy Fallon, backed by The Roots and members of Dirty Projects for a performance of "Get Free". Free The Universe in stores this Tuesday.
23 May, 2012 3:47 am
The festival will happen September 1 and 2 at the Benjamin Franklin Pkwy in Philly, and will feature Jay-Z, Pearl Jam, Skrillex, Miike Snow, Afrojack, Calvin Harris, Odd Future, D'Angelo, Rick Ross, Wale, Meek Mill, Passion Pit, Santigold, Dirty Projectors, X, Janelle Monae, Prince Royce, Rita Ora Savoy, The Knocks, and more. Jokes: What, no [cont.]
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"The contradictions soon explode, taking you with them."
The specific "here" and "elsewhere" of Ici et ailleurs (Here and Elsewhere), a film made anonymously by Jean-Luc Godard (Vivre sa vie, Contempt) and his comrades as part of a mid-'70s collective-filmmaking experiment calling itself the Dziga Vertov Group, are France in 1974 (the place and time when the film was completed and put together) and Palestine in 1970, when the film's documentary footage of Palestine-liberation military preparation was commissioned from the group by the Palestinians themselves and shot before that side's bitter defeat in the Six Days' War at the hands of Israel. What started out as a film about the Palestinian uprising, prematurely entitled Victory, was thus shelved for years, eventually to be subsumed by Ici et ailleurs, a work of lacerating self-reckoning, a systematic and relentless probing of why these images were really made, in what ways they were false and compromised (and even staged), and how their appearance of documentary "objectivity" made them even more shaky and duplicitous. An earlier Dziga Vertov Group Project had been Letter to Jane, a 45-minute piece in which Group founders Godard and Jean-Pierre Gorin presented us with a single filmed image, a still photo of Jane Fonda (star of their own earlier film, Tout va bien), and dissected it ruthlessly in voiceover in a way that struck some as simply vicious, if not outright sexist. Those angered by A Letter to Jane might take some comfort from Ici et ailleurs (which is a better film in several respects, anyway); it shows that the Dziga Vertov Group was just as willing to turn that blisteringly radical critical scrutiny upon itself in a way that's more fruitfully provocative than beating up on naďve celebrities.
The voices we hear philosophizing, criticizing, and arguing are less easy to identify here than were Godard's and Gorin's in Letter to Jane, but their voices are doubtlessly included, along with those of Godard's creative/life partner and fellow DG Group member, Anne-Marie Miéville, and other active members of the group at the time the film was being made. The meaning of and connection between the images under discussion is almost entirely unclear, but the task here is to point up the true lack of simple connection and easily facilitated conclusion-jumping between oneself and any linked-together set of images. The point is to raise a question of clearly desperate importance to the politically engaged filmmakers and their medium: there is surely a connection there, between those (naďve? overly optimistic? merely self-serving and escapist?) shots taken of confident and passionate revolutionaries "elsewhere" (in another, very different place and, now, in another time) and the post-1968 slow, morose, progressive despondence and futility of what was to have been a new French Revolution, but how does one go about making that connection? Our narrators take themselves to task for being so disillusioned with the France of their time (their "here") -- encapsulated in dramatic scenes of a good union family in their living room watching manipulated, noisy, cascading, leveling successions of images on TV while working conditions and justice for labor inexorably deteriorates around them -- that they tagged along (rather uselessly, they seem to feel now) for someone else's seemingly more exciting, immediately possible revolution, one with which they could've better shown solidarity by keeping the flame burning at home.
But the film is also an attempt to profit from such now-regretted escapist gestures made under the guise of solidarity. Using then very newfangled videotape and computer technology, the group imprints aphorisms ("learn to see, not to read," etc.) onto the screen and exploits the possibilities of slides and videotape editing to make disconcerting, asymmetrical, shifting single-image juxtapositions of, for example, Hitler, Nixon, Golda Meier, and a dead Palestinian child. The filmmakers themselves also appear in Brechtian dramatic sketches interspersed throughout, like the aforementioned TV-watching family or as a group of models holding up stills to a camera lens to demonstrate to us the way iffy connections between images are made to seem certain through film, obscuring the impossible-to-encapsulate reality. The different materials -- the now suspect documentary footage, the didactic sketches, the video/computer montages -- complement and magnify one another's resonant demonstrations that our hurry to make the connections between "here" and "elsewhere," "now" and "then" as we attempt to understand our world and its history puts us in danger of missing the real, never immediately discernible connections altogether, or even severing them: the film hypothesizes at one point that it was a succumbing to a TV-image-saturated world and its false, overly simplistic dot-connecting that led "Black September," the radical Palestinian liberationist group, to instigate the murderous publicity stunt at the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich. That was an act that the filmmakers, who wholeheartedly support Palestinian liberation from Israel's illegal settlements and oppression, find ill-advised and unethical, but that's beside the point; in their view, the most productive thing to do is make their film ask sincerely whether they were themselves complicit in this unconscientiously manipulated, overcrowded marketplace of images when they were trying to make Victory out of someone else's revolution , and whether they bear some responsibility for colluding with the widespread enslavement, even of revolutionaries, to mass-distributed images and their illusion of immediately powerful, effective communication.
This is all very heady stuff, and if you're one who wishes Godard had stuck to the Band of Outsiders/Breathless model instead of getting all rigorously political, be warned: Ici et ailleurs makes even Weekend and La Chinoise look like sheer frivolous "fun" by comparison. One primary motivation for the Dziga Vertov Group's existence was that no individual member's filmmaking practice be let off the hook easily, and, particularly if one is watching Ici et ailleurs from a sofa on a home screen, that hook snags us, too, since it's difficult to ignore one's resemblance in that context to the film's French family numbly watching ads and movies and horrific war footage on their television. But if you can appreciate Godard's submersion of his own personality/authorial voice into a communal, dialectical, cooperative, and committed approach to filmmaking -- his careful turning of his art to the service of new passions like the ethics of the image, how that translates into its aesthetics, and the ever-elusive goal of making and assembling images that don't hypocritically pretend to summarize a whole truth or offer the final answer to anything, but instead comprise just one small part of an ongoing, pressing question -- then Ici et ailleurs feels like a bracing, invigorating (and even, in its radically disorienting aesthetics, quite beautiful) first seed of a consciousness-expanding line of thought. Here, the power of cinema to convince is questioned and strictly harnessed, controlled, and directed to render the film a small but steady, decisive initial step toward finding the true, real, complicated connection between your "here" and someone else's "elsewhere."
Olive Films presents Ici et ailleurs in its original aspect ratio of 1.33:1, with a very conscientious transfer that preserves remarkably well the more spontaneous-appearing/naturally-lit textures of the Palestine documentary footage and all the film's other, more arranged and controlled uses of color, light, and shadow, with no edge enhancement and only traces of aliasing (mostly when titles appear, and even then only occasionally).Sound:
The Dolby Digital 1.0 monaural soundtrack (in non-optionally English-subtitled French and purposely un-subtitled Arabic) conveys the full range of the film's sounds, from narration and dialogue to music and the occasionally rougher direct documentary sound, as well as could be imagined. The film has a technologically modest approach to sound as befits its time and the ethos of its makers, but it's used brilliantly and wildly creatively, as usual, by Godard and team, and the sonic dimension of Ici et ailleurs is conveyed here in a way that's perfectly clear at every moment, with no audio overloading, distortion, tinniness, or imbalance.Extras:
I wish every "think globally, act locally" bumper sticker could be replaced with a viewing of Ici et ailleurs, a filmed essay on the need to go much deeper than totalizing slogans (or sloganeering images) to get to the true, profound meaning of words like those, or images like the ones the filmmakers brought back from Palestine in 1970. To put it in a crude, simple way that doesn't do justice to the thoroughgoing depth of the film's examination of the politics and aesthetics of how to be a revolutionary filmmaker without being a tourist or a hypocrite: "here" is the world as it looks through your eyes, sounds to year ears, and feels in your skin; "elsewhere" is the world as experienced by someone else; and the assumption that seeing pictures of that other experience on television, in films, and in newspapers gets you directly from "here" to "elsewhere" is an extremely dubious one that our daily televisual experience, whose only volume levels are loud and louder, never stops dangerously reinforcing. Jean-Luc Godard and his fellow filmmakers in the Dziga Vertov Group put their foot steadily but all the way down on the brake of that kind of haste, mercilessly interrogating their own methods and activities as solidarity-granting documentarian-outsiders in Palestine and as actual citizens and residents of a France whose own revolutionary outlook seems unexciting and grim. The film is extraordinarily brief, lasting just under one hour, but its sonic and visual textures provide incredibly dense, rich food for thought; it's an hour of film that could lead to a lifetime of questioning received, conventional wisdom about cinema, politics, aesthetics, and what it really takes to see the world as clearly as possible before attempting to change it. Highly Recommended.


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It's been over a month since I posted an update on what I've picked up for music. I'm happy to say that I've been picking up some solid used gems and some great new releases between the record shops, Ebay, and band websites. Of course, I'm adding new discs quicker than I can listen and I have more on the way!
Band Websites
Don Dokken – Solitary (2008) – $25: I'm not going to lie, I'm a big time Dokken fan and I also like Don's solo album UP FROM THE ASHES (1990). I read a quick note online that Don was selling his new solo record exclusively on tour and at his website…..for a limited time. The download was $10 so I figured the actual disc would be around $15. I was wrong! $20 plus $5 shipping all through Don's website & Paypal.
W.A.S.P. – Dominator (2007) – $11: I finally picked this album up after much debate. I've been listening to W.A.S.P. since the debut back in '84 but the last two albums (Neon God Pts. 1 & 2) didn't really excite me. Actually, I thought they were horrible. The price was right on the auction and the $11 I spent includes the shipping charge. The problem? It's a Russian pressing. I'll make it quick on Russian pressings: they are official releases for sale in that area only, they are usually sold cheaper due to the country's economics and many Ebay dealers buy up the Russian pressings and sell them for double profit on Ebay. The Russian subsidiary was listed in the auction but I didn't realize it until the auction ended. Everything looks good and the CD sounds fine but I would prefer to stay away from these pressings as they are bootlegged often and easily.
Akira Kajiyama & Joe Lynn Turner – Fire Without Flame (2006) – $7: Joe Lynn Turner always gets involved in excellent projects and taking over the vocals for a collaboration with Japanese guitarist Akira Kajiyama was a no brainer. They had worked with each other previously on many JLT solo projects. This was rated really high on many Best of 2006 lists and it's Joe Lynn Turner, one of the best Rock singers ever. The price was a true bargain at $7 from the same seller that I got the W.A.S.P. CD from, problem is it was another Russian pressing. Same situation as the other auction, buyer beware, but the CD seems perfectly fine.
Sunstorm (featuring Joe Lynn Turner) – s/t (2006) – $11: One of the top Melodic Rock albums of 2006 featuring "Mr. Smooth" himself on lead vocals, Joe Lynn Turner. I'm in a JLT zone right now because I can't get enough of his last solo record, SECOND HAND LIFE (2007), and Rainbow. This album has been on my Want List for a couple years and I finally found a copy at a decent price. The problem? Another Russian pressing. Again, my fault because the subsidiary label was listed in the auction…..but it was hard to find.
Lillian Axe – Fields Of Yesterday (1999) – $8.50: I picked this up because I needed to finish off my Lillian Axe collection. This is the original 1999 pressing, it has been reissued recently by the same label, Z Records, with a couple of bonus tracks. I went for the original release because I read that the reissue is also remastered, I wanted to hear it like I should have in '99. The price was also half what I could find the reissue for.
Heavy Load – Death Or Glory (1982) – $17.75: This is one of those rarities I had to have. Heavy Load is from Sweden and plays an early '80s style of Power Metal that is very good. The vinyl usually goes for big money and the CDs are hard to come by. I happened to get this Japanese pressing from a seller in the U.S. and I was the only bidder! The last time I saw a Heavy Load disc was back around '98 in a record store import section for $30.
Night Sun – Mournin' (1972) – $33.75: This is a rare piece of early '70s forgotten Metal. I've been getting into a lot of early to mid '70s obscure Metal and Night Sun has been on my list for a long time. This is the lost CD and I still haven't found it. Hopefully it will turn up at some point but I've checked the house, garage, cars and trash…..nothing.
Record Convention
Star Star – The Love Drag Years (1992) – $6: I went to my firs record/music convention last month and I was hoping to pick up some obscure Metal. Unfortunately there wasn't much to choose from but I did find this Sleaze/Glam/Punk album by Star Star. Brand new sealed for $9, I offered $5, compromised at $6.
Newbury Comics
Airtime – Liberty Manifesto (2007) – $18: Rik Emmett decided to Rock out once again and has released this new project with Mike Shotton (Von Groove). Unfortunately, the Triumph reunion details have kept this release under the radar but I heard the previews and it's solid Melodic Hard Rock. Paid a little bit more at the store than online but I wanted it right away.
Nightwish – Dark Passion Play (2007) – $15: Nightwish have always been one of those bands that I always wanted to check out but I never really gave them the time. I dig female fronted bands like Tristania, Lacuna Coil, Lana Lane, The Gathering, Benedictum and Epica so I figured that I should try some Nightwish now that they have a new singer. I re-listened to WISHMASTER (2000) the other day and I remembered why I keep wanting to dive deeper into the band's discography.
Lou Gramm – Ready Or Not (1987) – $5 used: I dig me some Foreigner and I like AOR so this Lou Gramm solo album was a nice find for five bucks. The single 'Midnight Blue' is worth the fiver alone! I hadn't seen this album in a long time and, all of a sudden, there were about 6 copies in the used bin. If you can get by the lighter fare from latter day Foreigner, then you can appreciate Lou Gramm solo.
Raging Slab – s/t (1989) – $6 used: I saw this collecting dust in the used bin and I wasn't sure I had it. I remember having the cassette way back when but I wasn't sure if I had replaced it on CD. Called the wife from the record store and had her check upstairs in the music room. Nope, not there! I hadn't heard 'Don't Dog Me' in a long time and I like Southern Hard Rock. Kind of the same situation as Lou Gramm: old disc, good price, good single.
Fair Warning – Live And More (1998) – $7 used: I got into Fair Warning in 2000 when they released FOUR but I haven't really paid much attention since. FOUR is a good Melodic Rock album but it's a little lite, maybe that's why I haven't explored more Fair Warning albums. This one was cheap for a 2 disc set and I figured it was a good way to check out some of the back catalog.
Scorpions – Animal Magnetism (1980) – $7 used: Finally! After waiting and waiting, I finally found ANIMAL MAGNETISM at a price I was willing to pay. $7 isn't bad at all for a classic record and an original pressing. This also takes another off my WANTED list. The only problem with this album is that I'll have to skip 'The Zoo' even though it's a classic tune, it just gets overplayed so much!
Quiet Riot – The Randy Rhoads Years (1993) – $6 used: I already have QUIET RIOT I (1977) and QUIET RIOT II (1978) so I've got the pre-METAL HEALTH era covered. This album has a few unreleased tracks and some remastered songs from the first two albums so it's essential to completing the band's discography. This is the only missing piece to my QR puzzle and I got it for a really great price.
Epica – The Divine Conspiracy (2007) – $7 used: Like I mentioned before, I like female fronted bands like Lacuna Coil, Lana Lane, and Nightwish so picking up Epica's latest album for a mere seven bucks was an easy purchase. I was actually going to pick this up brand new for $15 but I happened to notice that the used Metal section being re-stocked at the same time…..and there was the used copy! Someone had just traded it in!
U.D.O. – Mastercutor (2007) – $7 used: I've always been a huge Accept/U.D.O. fan and I have almost every release by both bands, there's a couple that have eluded me. Anyway, I wanted the European limited edition with the two extra songs but I never found it. The limited edition is on Ebay for $25 but I've been putting it off. I couldn't pass up the U.S. release at such a great price and I finally get to enjoy an album that has been out almost a year.
Fight K5 – The War Of Words Demos – $14: I've been putting this CD off for a while, mostly because I had missed the initial sale price of $9.99 when it first came out. I kept my eye on this disc over the last few weeks and it actually came down in price from $16.99! I figured I wouldn't find it for less and I was sick of waiting. The original Fight release was brilliant, any doubts I had about Rob Halford continuing Metal life after leaving Judas Priest were erased.
Tarja – My Winter Storm (CD + DVD) (2008) – $15: I'm not sure why I wanted this album so badly but I did. Same thing with the latest Nightwish, I think it was just time to give in and try this music out. I'd read a lot of reviews and they were all very good, I heard some online samples and liked what I heard so the decision to buy was made. A couple of weeks before the U.S. release, I saw this album at the store as an import for $30…..I passed. When it was released officially in the States, I compared the European import to the U.S. version: there was no difference at all. Both were an oversized digipak, both has the CD and DVD, both had the same tracklisting. Not sure what was so special about the Euro version 2 weeks prior but I was glad to get this at a more reasonable price.


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|Home :: My Account :: My Basket
Hotel Villa Punta Blanca is a great choice for experiencing vibrant Varadero on a budget but should also appeal to beach lovers & those looking for a peaceful holiday.
Though a basic hotel with limited facilities, you will find a friendly, cozy & relaxing atmosphere at Villa Islazul Punta Blanca hotel, which provides tranquillity & great beaches, while having the bars, shops & restaurants of Varadero's strip just a short walk away.
Punta Blanca has a swimming pool & sun terrace which is clean & well maintained, a lobby bar & restaurant, where the service is likely to exceed your expectations for a budget hotel. There are no other activities in the hotel though there are great watersports activities on the beach.
If you want to enjoy a great beach, have a peaceful break & yet also explore the sights & sounds of Varadero, you will find all you need at hotel Villa Punta Blanca.
© 2013 Nigel Hunt
Not Reviewed By Nigel Yet
Reviewed on 24 Jul 2010 by Hanzer L from Chile
Great location. very friendly staff. rooms ok (considering price). Kitchen exceptinal. absolutely worthy!!!
Average rating from 1 review(s) of this hotel
Air conditioning
Lobby bar
Money exchange
Reception staff speak Spanish, English, French, German, Italian
Shop(s) with basic supplies, souvenirs & gifts
Swimming pool
Taxis desk
Telephone - national & international calls
Water sports (non-motorised)
Villa Punta Blanca provides simply furnished ensuite guest rooms with large double or twin beds, air-conditioning, satellite tv & private bathroom.
© 2013 Nigel Hunt
Air conditioning
Bathroom (ensuite)
Hot & cold water
Satellite TV
More Hotels in Varadero:
UK Sales :: Audrey :: +44 20 7498 8555 or 0800 298 9555
USA & Canada Sales :: Jeffery or Bastien :: Toll Free 888 361 9555
Havana Tourist Center :: Idelsis :: +53 7 863 9555
(mazāk par 10 dienam)


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Fruity sponge cake
Reader Sue McGann devised this delicious low-fat cake recipe
Nutrition and extra info
- Sponge is freezable
Nutrition: per serving
- kcal214
- fat4g
- saturates1g
- carbs40g
- sugars30g
- fibre0g
- protein7g
- salt0.34g
- butter or oil, for greasing
Butter is a dairy product made from separating whole milk or cream into fat and…
- 50g plain flour
- 3 tbsp cornflour
- 1 tsp baking powder
Baking powderbay-king pow-dah
Baking powder is a raising agent that is commonly used in cake-making. It is made from an alkali…
- 4 eggs, separated
The ultimate convenience food, eggs are powerhouses of nutrition packed with protein and a…
- 175g caster sugar
For the filling
- 295g can mandarin segment, drained
- 200g tub low-fat fromage frais
- icing sugar, for dusting
Heat oven to 180C/fan 160C/gas 4. Grease then line the base and sides of 2 x 20cm sandwich tins with greaseproof paper. Sieve the flours and baking powder together.
Use electric hand beaters to whisk the egg whites until stiff, then briefly whisk in the sugar. Beat the egg yolks quickly, then whisk into the whites. Fold in the dry ingredients using a large metal spoon, then spoon the mixture into the tins and level the tops. Bake for 18-20 mins until risen, light golden and a skewer inserted into the middle comes out clean. Cool in the tins for 10 mins, then gently remove and leave to cool completely.
Mix the mandarins and fromage frais together. Peel away the greaseproof paper, sandwich the cakes with the mandarin mix, then dust with the icing sugar to serve. Best eaten on the day it's made.