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This summer, the nTelos amphitheater in Portsmouth will serve Baby Boomers eager to spend a night of sweating to the oldies. We learned this week that two big progressive bands from the late 1960s and 1970s -- Yes and Procol Harum -- will play there in August.
Tickets to the Aug. 3 concert go on sale 10 a.m., Friday, April 27, from Ticketmaster. Reserved seat tickets are $40 and $50. Lawn tickets are $20.
Until Sunday, May 6, a $10 discount on gold circle reserved and general admission lawn tickets will apply.
As rock fans over 30 will recall, the British band Yes was one of the leading lights of the art rock movement of the 1970s. It combined long-form ambitions and classical music pretensions on albums such as "Fragile," "Close to the Edge" and "Tales From Topographic Oceans." Signature tunes include "Yours is No Disgrace," "Roundabout," and the "Starship Trooper" suite.
The band reinvented itself and made a brief comeback in the 1980s with the Trevor Horn-produced album "90125." That disc yielded a No. 1 pop hit with "Owner of a Lonely Heart."
Procol Harum is best known for the classic rock favorite "A Whiter Shade of Pale."
"The band evolved from a studio ensemble into a successful live act, their music built around an eclectic mix of blues-based rock riffs and grand classical themes," wrote Bruce Eder at Allmusic.com.
Robin Trower was the band's guitarist from 1968-71, according to Joel Whitburn's book about the Billboard Top 40.
What are the other Baby Boomer-approved shows heading for nTelos?
May 22 -- Steve Winwood
June 13 -- Bonnie Raitt with Mavis Staples
July 7 -- Crosby, Stills & Nash
Here's the press release about the art-rock revival in Portsmouth.
Evening of Prog Rock on Friday, Aug. 03
Portsmouth, Va. – Yes, with special guest Procol Harum, bring an evening of progressive rock from two of the most important bands that developed the genre to nTelos Wireless Pavilion on Friday, Aug 3. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the concert begins at 8 p.m.
Yes are an English band who achieved worldwide success as one of the pioneers of the progressive genre. Known for their lengthy songs, mystical lyrics, and dynamic live stage sets, the band has sold more than 50 million albums. Its current lineup is Jon Davison (lead vocal), Steve Howe (guitar), Geoff Downes (keyboards), Oliver Wakeman (keyboards), Chris Squire (bass & Only original band member on all albums), and Alan White (Drums).
Yes performed with the Virginia Symphony at the venue in Aug., 2001.
Procol Harum are a British rock band, formed in 1967, which contributed to the development of progressive rock, and by extension, symphonic rock. Their best-known recording is the classic "A Whiter Shade of Pale." Although noted for its baroque and classical and influence, Procol Harum's music also embraces blues, soul and R&B.
Tickets go onsale at 10 a.m., Friday, April 27 through all Ticketmaster outlets, including online (www.ticketmaster.com) and by phone (800.745.3000).
Until Sunday, May 6, there is a $10 discount on Gold Circle and general admission Lawn tickets. This is a limited time offer and no other discounts or offers can be combined.
Orchestra tickets are $50, Gold Circle tickets are $40, and general admission lawn tickets are $20, including service and facility fees. There is a $3 discount with military ID. Present your AAA Membership Card at the Box Office or Ticketmaster outlet and receive $3 off. Discounts cannot be combined.
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|LAURA COLELLAWriter, Director, Cinematographer, Editor, Producer
|MICHAEL A. JACKMANExecutive Producer
|THEO GREEN - SydTheo is a painter who runs Inkblot Publications and Aftermath Books. He can often be found on the Purple Citadel grounds taking a long lunch with a never empty carafe of cheap burgundy. His memoir, Tropical Delusion, was published in 2011.
|VIRGINIA LAFFEY - SylvieGini holds a PhD in history and teaches history and women's studies courses at the college level. When she is not teaching she is perfecting her vodka infusion recipes.
|JONAH PARKER - CurtisJonah was fourteen at the time of filming. He has strong interests in acting, music, the visual arts, and science. He also loves to run, both competitively and recreationally. He is co-creator, with Theo Green, of the web series Breakfast with Theo.
|YVONNE PARKER - SadieYvonne has taught English literature in colleges and worked as a reporter for newspapers and television. She has incredible children and grandchildren.
|DAVID PARKER - SimonDavid works as a software engineer. He lives with his wife and two sons, and next door to his mother and sister, all of whom are in Breakfast with Curtis.
|ADELE PARKER - PirateAdele holds a PhD in French Studies, teaches French, and makes a mean daiquiri.
|AARON JUNGELS - FrenchyAaron is a founding Co-Artistic Director, performer and designer with Everett, a multimedia dance theater company. He has been been creating performance works and touring with them for over twenty-five years. He's open to going Hollywood.
|GIDEON PARKER - Young CurtisGideon was nine at the time of filming. His hobbies are running, archery, hip-hop dancing and reading.

subset: commoncrawl


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News and musings from New York Times bestselling mystery writer Rhys Bowen, creator of the Royal Spyness and Molly Murphy mysteries. Sparkling British royal comedies and atmospheric historical drama.
Monday, August 12, 2013
Will E-books take over the world?
So I decided to run a poll on my Facebook page. What surprised me was that 20,000 people came to visit. I have never seen numbers like that before, especially in the space of two days. And as I read the comments one thing became clear People are passionate about their reading habits. Many people finished their post with one or more exclamation points. "Only real books!!!!"
So having read and digested 1000 comments I can tell you, with scientific accuracy :) , that real books beat out electronic versions by more than two to one. And something interesting emerged from this study: reading from a real book was a sensory experience, involving all five senses.
There was the tactile stimulation of turning pages, feeling a book in one's hand. As one commenter put it, "If it's a mystery I can prolong the suspense by holding the tip of the page in my hand and waiting in delicious anticipation before I turn it."
Another commenter said that seeing them on a shelf evoked pleasurable memories of past reading.Then there is smell of books, particularly old ones. The book was perceived as part of a pleasurable experience. As one commenter said, "Nothing like a hard cover on an afternoon with a nice breeze."
Someone else said, "How would you press flowers in an e-book?"
Those who chose e-books liked the convenience, especially for travel, plus the fact that downloads were cheaper. Some commented they had run out of shelf space. Others that they could download out of print books. One commenter admitted she was naturally lazy and it was so easy to have a book delivered to her Kindle with one click.
In the case of audio it also seemed to be convenience and the only way to fit books into a busy lifestyle. One commenter said "If it weren't for audio I wouldn't have a chance to experience books." Audio has the added advantage that one can do something else at the same time. Audiophiles listened during long commutes, during workouts, housework or dog walking. One of my fans told me last week that her dog walks have stretched to three hours while she listened to my new book.
Two surprising comments came out of my survey. A teacher mentioned that children tired of looking at screens all day and liked real books in their free time, (who knew?) and someone who worked in a college bookstore stated that most college students preferred real books, but that downloads of textbooks were so much cheaper and easier to carry around.
About ten percent of the respondents said that they loved all forms of reading. "E-books, audio, cornflake packets" one woman said. But it is reassuringly clear that real paper books are not going away any time soon! Bookstores--you may breathe a sigh of relief.
(You can read the original post and the comments on www.facebook.com/rhysbowenauthor)
6 comments:
Long live the printed book!ReplyDelete
I couldn't get to the facebook page, so I'm glad that you wrote about this here as well. I'm glad other people enjoy ebooks, but I find them very frustrating (just a simple thing like turning back to re-read something takes forever). I'll take the printed book every time.ReplyDelete
I wish you could get a code when you buy a real book to download the e-book version too. Some DVDs have the option to download a copy of the movie now. It would be handy to have one to page through, and one to travel with!ReplyDelete
- Rhys BowenAugust 13, 2013 at 9:06 AM
Interesting suggestion and one that I will pass along to publishers. Thank youReplyDelete
- AnonymousAugust 23, 2013 at 7:33 AM
I am one who does all forms of reading. I own thousands of "real" books, hundreds of audiobooks in cassette, CD and downloadable digital, and a number of eBooks. All have their place. And some titles I own in several formats and multiple copies. I do like the idea of buying a new hardback and getting a code for the eBook. And Amazon/Audible are doing a deal that for at least some of the books that have been made available in "wispersync for voice", if you have purchased the Kindle format you can buy the Audible audio for a reduced price, sometimes very reduced. I have taken advantage of that a number of times, when I want to be able to read and listen to the same title, sometimes at the same time, sometimes at different times.ReplyDelete
By the way, I loved Heirs and Graces, which I bought in eBook format the day it came out. When the library gets it in hardback (the order was delayed) I will read the real book, and at some time I plan to buy the audible version.
What is helping with the Audible numbers is the wonderful performance by Katherine Kellgren. I love reading the Royal Spyness series, but I also just have to listen to Katherine reading and brilliantly acting out all the parts.ReplyDelete


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Stash Buster Project
So, I was given a free book of crochet patterns. It was from the May 2010 'Let's Knit' Issue. I hadn't picked up a crochet hook for a long time. Since I struggled to complete a blanket for my unborn son at the time. But as this seemed quite quick, I referred to my 'how to' book of crocheting and finished it in a flash! These would make excellent stocking fillers. You could easily convert them to look Christmas-ee. Sorry I mentioned the 'C' word already. But hey, you gotta be prepared. So many crafting options, so little time.
The beads I used were glass, but I should have used more or chosen a heavier bead so that they would weigh it down to bring out the shape better. You could, of course, use any colour combination. I just used what I had, and I just happened to only have white in 4 ply. The suggest you can use ribbon, but you could use any yarn you like. Just choose an appropriate hook and if your yarn or yarn substitute is much thicker then make reduce the amount of rounds you make.
If you missed this issue and would like to get this pattern. It can be found in the book 'Two Balls or Less' by Jenny Hill. It's RRP is about £12.99 and has over 30 simple crochet and knitting projects.
As an added note, the hook used is 3.5mm.


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I have just re-read the chapters on the pentagram and Hexagram rituals and as of late I am invoking various elemental and planetary energies.
I have a few questions about the method Jim has written in pearls of wisdom about using the king scale of the path you are wishing to scry for the background and hexagram drawn in complementary colour. My questin may sound a little stupid, but what is meant by the background?
Is it merely the gaps in between the lines of the shape drawn in the air, or am I to visualise a sort of square upon which I draw the shape?
I also assume that complementary colour refers to the same sort of idea as the 'colour wheel' kids are provided in an art lesson?
This method seems better than my current one, but I am one of those annoying sorts of people who need to know exactly what they are doing!
93, 93/93.


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As of the week after Thanksgiving, we are now the proud humans of another cat. Yes, for those counting, this makes four. Yes, I know I am well on my way to crazy cat lady status. But I swear, four is it. Really.
He's gorgeous, with thick, fluffy orange and white fur and the biggest, darkest green eyes you've ever seen. He's also sweet, and affectionate, and is absolutely fascinated by the giant box in the living room that shows moving pictures. Every night he plops down on the rug in front of it and watches television right along with the humans. Sometimes he falls asleep, though. You can't ever really tell when the impulse to nap will hit.
I had seen him around the neighborhood a couple of times, skittering under cars parked in my neighbor's driveway. One night in mid-October I came home to find him sitting outside my garage, with a look on his face that said, What took you so long? He looked hungry, and scared, so I brought him a bowl of cat food and left it outside. After about ten minutes he realized I wasn't going to throw a rock at him and so, tentatively, he made his way over, eventually purring and allowing me to pet that luxurious, thick fur. After a while I went inside, and he went his own way as well.
A few days later I walked into the kitchen to find this:
Now, I tell you, who can resist that face? I tried, believe me. The LOML said, "You can't be serious. We have three cats already. I know he's pretty and all, but come on, baby. He's a stray. He's probably infested with fleas, and mites, and who knows what." Logically, I knew he was right. So, I put out a bowl of food again, and left him out.
And he returned, of course. That cat chow business is much tastier and easier to catch than birds and mice. He came back, each and every day, to stare in the window just like that. Sometimes he'd come at night too, just sitting there, not meowing, just watching, just waiting.
And of course, bit by bit, day by day, my heart melted. Finally, on Thanksgiving Day, after he'd been sitting there for most of the afternoon, the LOML looked at me and said, "Yeah, ok, I know, he's going to be our new cat. He is pretty cute." I named him Ginger Cat, tentatively, for I loved the warm color of his coat, and we didn't know his sex at the time.
The next day, I bundled him up in the cat carrier and took him to the vet. Turns out he is a boy, neutered, and so possibly belonging to someone at one time. No tags, no microchip, just a ragged ear long-healed, which indicated he'd been on his own a good while. About two years old. In reasonably good health, minus the usual flea and mite issues and a slight ear infection, which was easily cleared up.
The first few days inside he was nervous, as can be expected, hiding from the other cats who COULD NOT BELIEVE I HAD THE NERVE TO BRING ANOTHER CAT IN HERE, hissing at him whenever an opportunity presented itself. Over time, though, as cats do, they got too lazy not to get along, so they began to accept him, and everything chilled out.
We originally named him Morris, because he looked so much like that famous television cat. Somehow, though, it just didn't fit. He didn't have a Morris personality. He wasn't aloof, or grumpy in the least. He was sweet, affectionate, and loved to play. He's a big boy, though, and his coloring and features seemed somehow more leonine than most house cats, so....Leo it became.
These days, Leo has adapted nicely to an indoor life. He spends a lot of his time doing this:
And alot of this:
And some of this:
And nowadays, when I open the door to the backyard, and I look behind me to make sure none of the cats get out, Leo is sitting there, in the middle of the kitchen floor, staring at me with a look that seems to say, Outside? No, thank you, human, I'm fine right here.
And so, four cats.
In related news, here is the downside to becoming so emotionally attached to your pets - when it's time to say goodbye. Neil Gaiman's cat Zoe is dying, and he wrote a beautiful blog post tribute to her here. Having lost two cats a couple of years ago, I can relate. Saying farewell is so hard.
Meet Leo
As of the week after Thanksgiving, we are now the proud humans of another cat. Yes, for those counting, this makes four. Yes, I know I am well on my way to crazy cat lady status. But I swear, four is it. Really.
Posted by Carinthia at 11:15 AM 3 comments
In case you missed the announcement the first time around, my story "Becoming" is now live at The Absent Willow Review. It's a fantasy piece, about a beautiful fairy named Elinor who is unhappy because she can only see her flaws when she looks in the mirror. If you've ever loved someone enough to try and change everything you are, check it out.
21 January 2010
Posted by Carinthia at 12:48 PM 1 comments
Welcome, Pansies!
I'm so happy that I live where I do. Today, it was actually warm enough for me to wear shorts as I did my daily gardening chores. When I trimmed away the freeze damage from my perennials, I noticed little shoots of green beginning to poke up from the soil. The world is waking up again, slowly. In another couple of weeks, the daffodils, pansies, and snapdragons will come into their own. Soon after, the azaleas will bloom and the trees will start to bud out. I can't wait. I come alive again along with the Earth. We'll see a few more weeks of on-and-off cold weather I'm sure, perhaps even a couple more light freezes, but still, it's coming, and it lifts my spirits. I'm not sure I could live in a place where there are snows into April. I'd probably end up pulling a Jack Torrance.
Also, I finally got back to work on the novel today. The plot is coming together so quickly I have a hard time getting it down fast enough. I'm furiously scribbling notes as I write, hoping I don't forget anything. The notes are starting to form a little nest, however. I need to organize them, maybe by chapter, or by character. I think I'll work on that tonight.
In any case, I'm working, the sun is shining, and Persephone is coming home. Can't get much better than that.
Posted by Carinthia at 12:20 PM 2 comments
Red Sky at Morning
Storms predicted to move in later today. Oddly enough, this thought is calming to me. I love nasty weather. A warm cup of cocoa, out on my back porch to watch the lightning flash across the sky - I can't think of a better way to spend an afternoon.
I'll be offline for most of the day today, for upgrades in the hardware and software on my desktop. I may pop in via laptop from time to time, but it's doubtful. Most likely I'll be so frustrated that I'll end up screaming and wanting to throw every electronic device I own out the window. On the other hand, maybe it will all proceed as smooth as freshly churned butter and everything will be fine. Yeah, right.
Anyway, enjoy your day, oh interwebs. It's Friday, after all, and a storm's comin'.
15 January 2010
Posted by Carinthia at 8:04 AM 0 comments
We Go To The Playground
10 January 2010
Posted by Carinthia at 10:54 AM 0 comments
Labels: Freeze Tag, Suzanne Vega, Winter
Every Single One of Us, The Devil Inside
48 degrees this morning, a virtual heat wave compared to what is forecast for tonight and tomorrow, when temperatures are expected to reach into the teens overnight. Tomorrow we're not predicted to rise above freezing all day, something that hasn't happened since the mid-1990's. I took a short walk in my garden this morning, deadheading a few roses and pulling up some broccoli plants gone to seed. Nothing really to do until the temperature rises again this weekend, however, when I can damage assess and begin cleanup.
It's been odd here the last few days, as the LOML is off to exotic Singapore on business. I'm lonely for him as always when is away, but my sister is visiting, and her presence has taken up at least some of the vacuum of silence that settles in whenever he is gone. We are watching old movies and chittering like two little girls again, and I've enjoyed it immensely.
I'm reading a biography of Truman Capote, something I never thought I'd pick up. Somehow, he fascinates me. I think this has more to do with his personality than his writing, which I find good, but not necessarily awe-inspiring. What I do find interesting, however, is that he was never ashamed of who he was, never tried to hide his uniqueness. He never tried to fit in with the conventions of his time - in fact, just the opposite - and that quality is what drew people to him, I believe. He was brave, outlandish, and completely at ease with himself, in a time when homosexuality was, in many places, still a crime. It wasn't the kind of courage required to protest in the streets or write letters to the editors of newspapers - it was the kind of courage necessary to completely be one's self day in and day out, and damn the consequences, and it worked spectacularly for him. We should all strive to be a little more Truman-esque, I believe, to cultivate our unique qualities and never be ashamed of who or what we are. We might all find ourselves a little more tolerant of others if we did.
Ok, well that's your combination book review/soapbox rant for the day. I'm off to write, gather some more materials for my graduate school application, and (hopefully) find some time to enjoy the rainy, dark weather.
A couple more pictures from the garden walk this morning:
07 January 2010
Posted by Carinthia at 8:08 AM 0 comments
Labels: Garden, Graduate School, LOML, Truman Capote
Onward and Upward
I love New Year's Day. It's meaningless, I know, a symbolic transition, but really, when you think about it, symbols and rituals are the markers of our lives: birthdays, the turning of the seasons, traditions and memories that pass us gently from one stage of our lives to the next. For me, by the time Christmas rolls around, the year feels tired and worn out, and so do I. New Year's Day gives me a fresh start, a zero point at which I can draw a line and step across. Maybe it's nothing more than a psychological crutch, but I look forward to it every year.
New Year's Eve here was relatively quiet. Being from south Louisiana, we only had to stroll next door for some great food cooked by my neighbor. We sat around, drinking and eating smoked turkey and andouille gumbo while the kids lit sparklers and laughed in the cold, crisp air. We live outside city limits, so such things are allowed. At midnight, we listened and watched as a barrage of explosions and lights lit up the night sky for at least 15 to 20 minutes. When it was over there was only silence, and the cold, clear darkness. I kissed my husband, the love of my life, and hugged my children. I laughed with my sister. It was a good day.
My hopes for the new year are the same as ever - finish the novel, at last; lose that weight that's been creeping up on me for the last ten years. This year, however, I'm adding a new goal - starting grad school. It's something I always assumed I'd do, someday, and now I am old enough to realize that 'someday' is a concept that is rapidly slipping through my fingers. Life is to be lived, carpe diem as the dead Romans say. Memento Mori. Make 2010 a year in which you do something, instead of a year in which things are done to you. Be alive.
Here's to new beginnings.
02 January 2010
Posted by Carinthia at 10:24 AM 0 comments
Labels: 2010, New Year's Resolutions


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'No refusal' DWI policy expands to every day
Required blood draws for suspects were only in effect on weekends.
Suspected drunken drivers who refuse a breath test in Bexar County are now subject to a mandatory blood draw every day of the year under a dramatic expansion of a "no refusal" policy that had been limited to weekends, officials announced.
"I think we're making history today," District Attorney Susan Reed said at a news conference Monday. "We are now the largest metro area in Texas to have an absolute no-refusal policy."
A $1.4 million grant from the Texas Department of Transportation will bolster enforcement efforts by the San Antonio Police Department and the Bexar County Sheriff's Office, but officers from virtually all local law enforcement agencies will be able to get warrants and have blood tested for driving-while-intoxicated cases.
Officials credited the weekend policy for a sharp drop in the number of intoxication manslaughter cases so far this year. In both 2009 and 2010, the period from January through September saw 13 such cases filed. This year, the number dropped to six.
Jennifer Northway, executive director of Mothers Against Drunk Driving-South Texas, said the reduction shows what can be accomplished when agencies work together.
"I look forward to coming back in 2012 and saying that we are fatality-free," she said.
Reed said the TxDOT grant will cover the policy's expenses for a year and that she hoped the city and county would incorporate money in future budgets to continue it.
Police Chief William McManus said, "It sends a strong message to everyone out there that if you come to Bexar County, you're not going to get off on a technicality."
Reed began the policy on Memorial Day weekend in 2008, continued it on major holiday weekends and secured law enforcement's cooperation to expand it in January to cover all weekends from 5 p.m. Friday to 6 a.m. Monday.
The bulk of the grant will go to the SAPD and the Sheriff's Office, which received $556,482 and $524,837 respectively, for their DWI selective traffic enforcement programs.
The money to pay for blood testing services handled by the Bexar County medical examiner's office will come from $180,000 received by the district attorney's office.
The MADD affiliate will get $150,000 to run its Take the Wheel educational program.
Both the SAPD and the Sheriff's Office will use the money to pay patrol officers overtime to look for suspects.
The sheriff's portion of the money will also target speeding, which typically goes hand in hand with drunken driving, "and that's double trouble," Sheriff Amadeo Ortiz said.
Officers made 6,951 arrests for DWI in 2010 in Bexar County and have made 5,024 so far this year, according to statistics from the district attorney's office.
On weekends this year, officers have made full use of mandatory blood draws — blood samples were obtained in 1,989 cases this year, with more than half of them, 1,043, under warrants obtained with the no-refusal policy. The rest were already required by law or obtained with the suspect's consent.
Mandatory blood draws have been criticized by some defense lawyers and civil libertarians. Jamie Balagia, an attorney with a DWI defense practice here who has styled himself the "DWI Dude" in advertisements, said Monday that the policy was a "ridiculous trampling of our Constitution."
Blood samples are already mandatory when someone is killed or in other circumstances, he said, so the extended policy impacts "boilerplate DWIs" with "no significant aggravating circumstances."
"I don't drink, but I might drink an O'Doule's (a nonalcoholic brew) that smells like beer, so if I spill some on my shirt and my eyes are always red because I have allergies, and a policeman stops me because I have a defective license plate (and) I have a knee injury and I cannot pass agility tests ... that is enough to arrest me, take me to jail and take my blood with a warrant," Balagia said.
"None of that is proof of intoxication. But the judge will rubber-stamp the warrant and take my blood because I did not give them evidence," he said. "That is un-American."
McManus and others have called drunken driving a major public safety problem here, and police have devoted attention to tracking its geography and deploying officers and new equipment to "hot spots" in the city.
But when such cases go to trial, there has been a 50 percent acquittal rate for defendants who refused breath tests and were not compelled to provide a blood sample, Reed said. She referred to a TV crime drama in calling it the result of a "CSI effect" on juries that want to see hard evidence.
"Fifty percent — that's a huge number. Our juries are going to know that we are bringing them the evidence," Reed said.


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The all-new Volvo S60 has entered one of the automotive world's toughest segments backed by an extrovert attitude never before seen in Volvo showrooms.
The all-new S60 has been sculpted to move you - both physically and emotionally.
"The sporty design delivers a visual promise of enthusiastic driving characteristics and I can assure you that the all-new S60 truly lives up to that promise. Its driving properties are better than those of any previous Volvo. What is more, the car's innovative new technologies help you become both a better and a safer driver," says Volvo Gerry Keaney, Senior Vice President Marketing, Sales and Customer Service at Volvo Cars.
With its all-new Volvo S60, Volvo Cars is advancing its position in one of the car world's most competitive segments: CD Premium.
"The competition is razor-sharp and the customers know exactly what they want. The emphasis is on emotional stance, sporty design and dynamic driving properties. Success in this segment means a lot for the brand's image and we are convinced that the all-new S60 will be one of the strongest contenders," says Gerry Keaney.
The first-generation Volvo S60 was launched in 2000. It soon became Volvo Cars' most popular model, enjoying worldwide acclaim and peak sales of 110,000 cars in 2002. All told, there are about 600,000 S60s on roads the world over today.
Uniform global spread
The initial annual target for the all-new Volvo S60 is 90,000 cars and this time too, the car's customer base is spread unusually uniformly throughout the world. Europe (including Russia), North America, and the rest of the world will each account for about one-third of total sales.
The five largest single markets will be the USA, China, Russia, Sweden and Great Britain.
The all-new S60 is built at the Volvo Cars factory in Ghent, Belgium.
"Irrespective of whether the customers are in the USA, Europe or elsewhere in the world, they all prioritise the same characteristics. Now we are giving them an entirely new S60 that has a unique appeal to even the most discerning of buyers," says Gerry Keaney.
Embracing contrasts
The all-new S60 is a Volvo that embraces contrasts. Its clear driver orientation makes it the ideal companion for the keen driving enthusiast. At the same time, it integrates high-tech innovation that helps it protect one of the most vulnerable road-users in modern traffic: the pedestrian.
Pedestrian Detection with full auto brake is a groundbreaking technological solution. It can detect pedestrians who walk into the road in front of the car, warn the driver - and automatically apply full braking power if the driver does not respond in time.
"Pedestrian Detection with full auto brake takes Volvo Cars' traditional care for the human being to a whole new dimension. In recent years, we have introduced a number of solutions that help the driver avoid accidents with other vehicles. Now we are taking a giant step forward with technology that helps to increase safety for unprotected road users as well," says Tomas Ahlborg, Project Director for the all-new Volvo S60. He adds:
"As far as we know, we are the first car maker in the world to offer a complete system that can detect, alert and automatically brake to avoid pedestrians."
For Tomas Ahlborg, who also served as one of the driving forces behind the first-generation S60, responsibility for the development of the all-new Volvo S60 has been the most exciting challenge of his career.
"The brief from the company's executive management was short and to the point: create Volvo's sportiest car ever. Personally, I'm one hundred percent delighted with the result. The all-new S60 is an uncompromisingly sporty sedan. Every single detail is in total harmony with the car's dynamic credentials," he explains.
Eldorado for car enthusiasts
In simple terms, car buyers can be divided into two main categories: enthusiasts and pragmatists. For the enthusiast, the car is a high-priority conversation topic that can never be exhausted, while the pragmatist only shows interest in cars when it is time to replace his or her current vehicle with a new one every three or four years or so.
In a historical perspective, Volvo's brand has attracted more pragmatists than enthusiasts. However, as each successive generation of Volvo models became increasingly emotional, that picture has changed - and the all-new S60 is packed with all the ingredients from the enthusiast's favourite menu.
"The number '60' in our model range nowadays indicates our sportiest models. The XC60 was the first step. With the all-new S60, we are placing ourselves right on the car enthusiasts' radar screens and we have expanded the range by introducing the new Volvo V60 sportswagon," says Tomas Ahlborg.


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Roll up! Roll up! The Beatles invite you to make a reservation for the Magical Mystery Tour
22 August 2012
"Ladies and gentlemen, what you are about to see is the product of our imaginations and believe me, at this point they are quite vivid." - Paul
The Beatles' Classic 1967 Feature Film Is Restored For Worldwide DVD and Blu-Ray Release on October 8th.
In September 1967, The Beatles loaded a film crew onto a bus, along with friends, family and cast and headed west on the A30 out of London to make their third film, this time conceived and directed by The Beatles themselves.
"Paul said, 'Look I've got this idea,' and we said, 'Great!', and all he had was this circle and a little dot on the top. - That's where we started." (Ringo)
In the wake of the extraordinary impact of the Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band album and the One World satellite broadcast of All You Need Is Love, The Beatles devised, wrote and directed their third film, Magical Mystery Tour, a dreamlike story of a coach day trip to the seaside.
The film features a fabulous supporting cast of character actors and performers, (including Ivor Cutler, Victor Spinetti, Jessie Robins, Nat Jackley, Derek Royle, and the inimitable Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band).
Apple Films have fully restored the long out-of-print, classic feature film for its October 8th release worldwide (October 9th in North America) on DVD and Blu-ray with a remixed soundtrack (5.1 and stereo) and special features.
A special, boxed deluxe edition will also be available, and, for the first time ever, there will be a limited theatrical release from September 27th.
This new release also feature three new edits of some of the song performances, as well as scenes that were cut out of the original film.
You can pre-order your copy today from:? Official US Store | Official UK Store | Official Japan Store
The restoration of Magical Mystery Tour has been overseen by Paul Rutan Jr. of Eque Inc. - the same company that handled the much acclaimed restoration of Yellow Submarine. The soundtrack work was done at Abbey Road Studios by Giles Martin and Sam Okell.
Magical Mystery Tour will also be available in a special, 10"x10" boxed deluxe edition. The deluxe edition includes both the DVD and Blu-ray, as well as a 60-page book with background information, photographs and documentation from the production, and a faithful reproduction of the mono double 7" vinyl EP of the film's six new Beatles songs, originally issued in the UK to complement the film's 1967 release.
All of the packages contain a host of special features, packed with unseen footage. There are newly-filmed interviews with Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and other members of the film's cast and crew, as well as a director's audio commentary recorded by Paul.
Director's Commentary - by Paul McCartney
The Making of Magical Mystery Tour (19m 05s)
- Features interviews with Paul and Ringo, along with other cast members and crew. Includes unseen footage.
Ringo the actor (2m 30s)
- Ringo reflecting on his role in the film.
Meet The Supporting Cast (11m 27s)
- A feature on the background and careers of Nat Jackley, Jessie Robins, Ivor Cutler, The Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band, Victor Spinetti, George Claydon, and Derek Royle.
"Your Mother Should Know" (2m 35s)
"Blue Jay Way" (3m 53s)
"The Fool On The Hill" (3m 05s)
- Three new edits of these performances all featuring footage not seen in the original film.
"Hello Goodbye" (3m 24s), as featured in Top of the Pops 1967
- The Beatles allowed the BBC to film them in the edit suite where they were working on Magical Mystery Tour. This was then turned into a promo by the BBC, who shot their own additional footage. It was then broadcast on Top of the Pops to mark the "Hello Goodbye" single going to No 1 in December 1967.
Nat's Dream (2m 50s)
- A scene directed by John featuring Nat Jackley and not included in the original film.
Ivor Cutler - "I'm Going In A Field" (2m 35s)
- Ivor performs "I'm Going In A Field", in a field. This scene was not included in the original film.
Traffic - "Here We Go Round The Mulberry Bush" (1m 53s)
- The filming of Traffic acting out their 1967 hit single "Here We Go Round The Mulberry Bush" was commissioned by The Beatles for possible inclusion in Magical Mystery Tour but was not used in the final edit.


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Let there be light. And if it can't be light from the sun, let it be light from a giant LED orb.
Visual artists Lisa Pacini and Christine Istad -- who, living in Norway, know from dark, sunless days -- decided to bring the sun to places that don't see much of it during winter. They created a light sculpture full of LEDs, suspended it from a hanger above a flatbed trailer pulled by a truck, and drove it through Norway, filming onlookers' reactions (spoiler alert: it made people very happy).
Since last year, the pair has covered hundreds of miles with Traveling Sun, which measures almost 10 feet in diameter, and shifts between a range of warm orange, red, and lilac hues.
Most recently, the sun shone as a centerpiece at 100% Norway, an exhibit of contemporary Norwegian products and furniture that shows at the London Design Festival. Starting in October, the sun will spend six months hanging from The Culture House in Rjukan, a small, shady Norwegian valley town that has relied on sunlight beamed from mirrors to get through the long dark winters.
The traveling sun hasn't always had a smooth ride as it traversed the treacherous, icy roads of Norway in winter.
"There were six serious accidents on the way through Majavatn in Nordland alone," the artists report. "At the Polar Circle, the truck was almost blown off the road, and the wind was so strong the PVC canvas was blowing out like a diaphragm."
The structure also made part of its journey by ship, traveling along the Norwegian west coast on an eight-day voyage from Tromso to Kirkenes and finally to Bergen, where it hung an outdoor wall by the USF Verftet, a center for art, film, and music.
On the road with a fake traveling sun (pictures)See all photos
Sunshine, or lack thereof, can have a dramatic effect on mood and energy levels, studies have shown. While an LED sculpture probably can't counteract the depression or sluggishness that tend to come with seasonal affective disorder, it does aim to restore at least a semblance of the sun's presence. It's a "Promethean act of great good will, community-mindedness, and not a little whimsical humor," David McCarthy, a professor of art History at Rhodes College in Memphis, Tenn., says of Traveling Sun.
The artists, appropriately enough, refer to themselves as "sunrunners." See more images of their unusual celestial creation in the gallery above.
(Via It's Nice That)


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Did he or didn't he?
All signs — you know, like a floor plan layout in a bunker — point to McQuaid (Nic Bishop) being the mastermind behind the Chicago facility bombing on Covert Affairs. But in the closing moments of last week's episode, he convinces Annie (Piper Perabo) that he was framed and she lets him go — after which she lies to Auggie (Christopher Gorham) about being in contact with him.
Fall TV: Hot scoop on returning shows
On Tuesday's midseason finale (10/9c, USA), we'll know for sure who is behind Chicago and "get a deeper understanding of the whole plot that has driven this Season 5," co-executive producer Matt Corman tells TVGuide.com.
Here are five things to expect from the finale:
1. Who's the traitor?
The bomber's identity will be revealed before the first act is over. So, is it McQuaid? He did talk Annie into listening to her gut last week, which hasn't steered her wrong... yet. "Her instinct is telling her that there's more going on and that instinct is serving her well over four and a half seasons and continues to do so," co-executive producer Chris Ord teases, adding that Annie, deep down, didn't truly believe that McQuaid was behind Chicago despite the overwhelming evidence. As such, she tries to help him clear his name on Tuesday's episode.
Perabo says that she and Bishop, who will be on the show the rest of the season, rehearsed the scene of Annie letting McQuaid go for a long time to strike the right balance of her conflicted feelings.
"She doesn't put the gun down, but she doesn't shoot and she lets him leave," Perabo told reporters on a conference call. "And it was all these tiny increments of, if you really trusted him you'd put the gun down and help him with whatever he needed ... so how do you kind of work in that gray area and how do you not cross the line with somebody so that you can never go back and they can never trust you? ... How you act in that scene and how you treat each other starts to set up their whole relationship for the last seven episodes."
Watch an exclusive sneak peek of Annie and McQuaid's covert (heh) meet-up from Tuesday's episode:
"Everyone will pay the price," the promo teases. Well, one person will pay with his or her life! "There will certainly be a death of a character that fans have come to know," Corman says. Is it the bomber... or someone else?
Must-see new fall shows
3. Can Auggie handle the truth?
Annie and Auggie's trust issues will get a new wrinkle when he learns that she lied about McQuaid. But will he be quick to forgive again? Between her heart condition and the Paris debacle, this is her third strike. "I don't think she ever likes lying to him. But I think they both realize that in the world of espionage, truth is kind of a fluid thing," Corman says. "They've both lied to one another in the past for various things. I think in his heart he realizes that it's a mission-sensitive thing and she's not doing it to be hurtful."
4. Look who's back!
Joan (Kari Matchett) and Calder (Hill Harper) hit a wall while looking into Roger's intel files and turn to a familiar face for help.
5. Launch forth into the back six
If you think the Chicago case is wrapped up after the midseason finale, you're sorely mistaken. "We're past the prelude and we feel this episode sends us on our way into a new chapter of the same story," Ord says. Setting things up for takeoff is the climactic scene in Tuesday's episode, which requires a team effort. "The mission and what McQuaid's being folded into — it's so big, it's not just Annie that can handle it," Perabo says. "So, that's one of the things that got me really excited about the mission ... is that you need everybody. Even when we shot it we were all like, 'Yes, the band's back together,' like it was really fun for everybody to do these giant scenes together."
(Additional reporting by Kate Stanhope)
Covert Affairs airs Tuesdays at 10/9c on USA. See why else you should watch below:


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NEOOUG Ohio, ODTUG Kscope12 and something unique from RedgateMay 16th, 2012 — ddelmoli
If you've known me for a long time, and let's face it, if you're visiting this blog, you probably do, you know that I'm particularly proud of the work I was able to do at Network Solutions as the Director of Database Engineering and Development.
I had the privilege of working with some of the best software development colleagues I've ever encountered, including Pete Fox (Vice President of Engineering), Brian Taylor (Release Management), Eric Faulkner (Product/Portfolio Owner), Mike Cocozza (Application Tier) and Mona Nahavandi (Presentation Tier), Sujata Nakhre (Billing) and Michelle Lee (CRM), as well as a host of other professionals in QA and Operations to bring the Network Solutions website and IT applications to life.
I didn't know it at the time (2002-2007) because it wasn't well known yet, but we practiced what I now know to be proto-Agile and proto-Helsinki development of a complex system that was timeboxed and data-centric. We regularly released features in three-month cycles based on release themes made up of capabilities and features which were managed and prioritized by product owners.
Recently I had the privilege of presenting at the Northeast Ohio Oracle User's Group training day conference in Cleveland, Ohio and during the sessions I actually started to hear the stirrings of the Oracle community becoming more aware of Agile and Helsinki as ways to improve our ability to deliver quality Oracle-based software systems in a more rapid manner.
BTW, I couldn't have been more impressed with the NEOOUG training day conference — I was highly surprised given that I had assumed attendees would be limited to North East Ohio, and that the conference itself would reflect a minimal ability to host a larger event.
I was wrong.
Held at Cleveland State University, I estimated the crowd at about 100-150 participants in state-of-the-art venues including university classrooms and ballroom spaces. Excellent wifi coverage was the icing on the cake.
I thought the quality of the presentations was pretty good as well — and I'll definitely be returning in the future, as well as encouraging folks from the Midwest and Great Lakes regions to attend. The folks at NEOOUG told me they're aiming to be as good as the RMOUG Training Days conference and I'd say they're clearly on the right track.
As an aside, I think it's really a good idea for Oracle Technology conferences to be more closely identified with academia through the use of university / college facilities as opposed to the Applications-focused conferences which are more of a vendor event — I think it more clearly aligns the content with the audience and venue.
I gave 2 presentations at the conference: Implementing MapReduce with SQL and PL/SQL; and An Examination of Schema Architecture Patterns for Edition-Based Redefinition.
I'm particularly proud of the MapReduce presentation — it's evolved nicely since I gave it at RMOUG and I'll be reprising it at ODTUG KScope12 in June as well, but I was really pleasantly surprised at how well the EBR presentation went.
It's probably because any discussion of EBR naturally aligns itself with how to use it to support a development process, and so I got to discuss some of my methods for doing database development:
1. Agile-style timeboxed deliveries
2. Helsinki-style database APIs through stored procedures
3. Describing the database as a "data server" accessed via an API (lately I prefer a RESTful API exposed via the APEX listener), instead of a "database server" with tables mapped into client-side ORMs
4. Versioning of database objects — historically by appending version numbers to programmatic objects (packages and procedures), now by using Edition-Based Redefinition
5. Extracting definitions of database objects to the file-system for source-code control check-in
6. DDL auditing everywhere — Development, QA, Production — to track all database structural changes
#4, #5 and #6 have been areas of keen interest to me for over 7 years now — and I'm happy to say that tools and vendors have really been responsive to my requests for improvements. I can't say enough good things about Kris Rice and Bryn Llewellyn from Oracle, who listen to my requests for features in SQL Developer and how I might use EBR — I've seen changes that make SQL Developer get better and better at #4 and #5 in particular – now you can generate individual scripts per object and use the new Cart feature for deployment.
Today I want to talk about another vendor looking to provide capability in #4 and #5 in a unique way: through a live opportunity to engage the Oracle developer community in a rapid feedback loop on features at the upcoming ODTUG KScope12 conference in San Antonio, TX on June 24-28, 2012.
Redgate Software has done a bunch of work in the SQL Server space for years and more recently has upped their game in the Oracle tools world with their Schema Compare, Data Compare and Schema Doc products, as well as hosting the AllThingsOracle.com website. And at KScope they're looking to really interact with the development community on building Source Code Control for Oracle in a live, agile fashion.
Instead of a simple product demonstration booth, Redgate will be using their vendor space as a mini-development shop, soliciting features from conference attendees and using an agile development process to actualize those features into a prototype product for Oracle Source Code Control.
Needless to say, I'm excited about it — I have definite ideas on what works and what doesn't work for Oracle source code control and I can't wait to try and get those things implemented while seeing what other developers and DBAs also want.
If database development is at all important to you, this sounds like a great opportunity to get your ideas out there.


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Food Labelling Advocates Say California Ballot Failure Won't Stop Efforts in Other States
Those who backed Proposition 37 to label genetically engineered food are looking north to Washington and Oregon and east to Connecticut and Vermont.
For full election coverage and analysis, go to Governing's 2012 Election Center.
Organic farmers and others who backed Proposition 37 to label genetically engineered food said Wednesday that failure of the measure in California won't stop similar efforts in other states. They're looking north to Washington and Oregon and east to Connecticut and Vermont.
Even though 53 percent of California voters rejected Proposition 37, the measure gave a huge push to the national movement to label genetically modified foods, said Dave Murphy, co-chairman of the Yes on 37 campaign and executive director of Food Democracy Now.
"We won a moral victory," Murphy said. "We've exposed this issue nationally in a way that's never been done before."
Genetic engineering, also called genetic modifying, is a process in which scientists splice the DNA of one plant or animal and combine it with DNA from something else.
Most often, the process is used to produce crops that are resistant to pests or can withstand being sprayed by weed killers such as RoundUp. Genetically modified corn, soy beans and canola are in thousands of common grocery products.
Some people oppose the technique, saying it is unnatural and could be harmful to the environment or human health. They want labels so shoppers who care about the issue can avoid GMOs at the store.
Others say genetic engineering -- also called biotechnology -- is a safe way to produce food with desirable characteristics, and that special labels would imply a danger that hasn't been proved.
Opponents of GMOs, or genetically modified organisms, are gathering signatures in Washington for a food labeling initiative they hope will make it on the November 2013 ballot, said Ronnie Cummins, director of the Organic Consumers Association, a major contributor to the Proposition 37 campaign. They're hoping to run an initiative in Oregon, Cummins said, though signature gathering has not begun there. If it makes the ballot it would be the second time Oregon voters are asked to require labeling of genetically engineered food; they rejected a similar measure 10 years ago.
Advocates are also working on GMO labeling bills they hope the legislatures in Vermont and Connecticut will soon consider, Cummins said. He said he doesn't expect the federal government to act on the issue.
"Most activists believe our power is in the realm of educating the public, putting pressure in the organic and natural food sector, and working at the state level," Cummins said.
He likened the GMO labeling issue to efforts to legalize marijuana, which voters in Washington and Colorado approved Tuesday.
"Like with marijuana legislation, voters took matters into their own hands," Cummins said. "I think we're going to get some victories in the next 12 months, and this will put additional pressure on the federal government."
(c)2012 The Sacramento Bee (Sacramento, Calif.)
We invite you to discuss and comment on this article using social media.


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OCEAN CITY – Two months after a federal judge dismissed a $20 million civil suit filed against Ocean City paramedics last year by the family of two Pennsylvania tourists who died of carbon monoxide poisoning in a Boardwalk hotel room in June 2006, the plaintiffs have filed an appeal in the case.
Last June, Yvonne and Morgan Boughter, family members of the pair of tourists who perished from carbon monoxide poisoning at the Days Inn on the Boardwalk in June 2006, filed suit against the town of Ocean City's Department of Emergency Services-Fire/EMS Division, along with five individual paramedics, for allegedly failing to respond to their first 911 call at around 9:43 a.m. on that fateful morning. In November of 2009, Senior U.S. District Court Judge William Nickerson ruled favorably on the defendants' motion to dismiss the case, agreeing with the notion no "special relationship" was forged during the tragic incident between the victims and the defendants.
However, apparently not satisfied with the judge's decision, the Boughters last week filed a notice of appeal in U.S. District Court, although no formal document outlining the reason for the appeal has been filed yet. A formal appeal will likely be filed at any time after the notice to appeal has been formally entered.
According to the original complaint, Ocean City EMTs responded to a similar call from a family in two adjacent rooms and rendered treatment and transported patients afflicted with CO poisoning, but never responded to Room 121 where the Boughter family was staying. Two members of the family, Patrick Boughter and his daughter Kelly, later succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning, while the surviving family members, Yvonne Boughter and her other daughter, Morgan, were later hospitalized.
From the beginning, the plaintiffs alleged the Ocean City Emergency Services hastily abandoned efforts to find the family in distress after tending to the needs of families in other first-floor units in the hotel on the day of the tragedy. Last August, Ocean City filed a motion to dismiss the case against the paramedics, citing a variety of reasons chief among them a notion the defendants owed no affirmative duty of care to the plaintiffs.
Records show at around 9:30 a.m. on June 27, 2006, a family sharing rooms 125 and 127 at the Days Inn called 911 complaining of symptoms associated with carbon monoxide poisoning. A short time later, Yvonne Boughter made her first 911 call of the day complaining her family was experiencing similar symptoms in Room 121.
According to 911 transcripts, the defendants were aware there was another family afflicted with carbon monoxide poisoning, but didn't respond to the room after taking care of the other patients.


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Property Details
Lynn Valley
401 1111 27TH STREET, North Vancouver, BC, V7J 1S3, Ca
Stunning mountain views from this Penthouse level residence in the heart of Lynn Valley at Branches by Polygon. Open concept living and dining is perfect for entertaining complete with new flooring, vaulted ceilings, large windows and cozy fireplace. Large kitchen w/ plenty of storage, gas range, & stone countertops. Spacious master bedroom complete w/ walk in closet and spa inspired bathroom w/ his and her sinks, soaker tub, and stand up shower. Branches is located right behind Lynn Valley center where you will find grocery shopping, Browns, Y Yoga and so much more. Just steps some of the best outdoor activities North Vancouver has to offer. Pets are welcome & rentals allowed. This suite comes w/ 1 parking and storage locker.
Bike Room, Elevator, Exercise Centre, Garden, Storage
Listing Provided By
Century 21 In Town Realty
Copyright and Disclaimer
The data relating to real estate on this web site comes in part from the MLS Reciprocity program of the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver. Real estate listings held by participating real estate firms are marked with the MLSR logo and detailed information about the listing includes the name of the listing agent. This representation is based in whole or part on data generated by the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver which assumes no responsibility for its accuracy. The materials contained on this page may not be reproduced without the express written consent of the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver. Copyright 2020 by the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver, Fraser Valley Real Estate Board, Chilliwack and District Real Estate Board, BC Northern Real Estate Board, and Kootenay Real Estate Board. All Rights Reserved.
- Adam Knight
- 604-916-9940
- 604-916-9940
- firstname.lastname@example.com
- VPG Realty
- #159 - 1233 Lynn Valley Road
- North Vancouver , BC


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價格區間 * AU$205 to AU$2459
歡迎您在滑浪者天堂(Surfers Paradise)的中心盡情寵愛自己。 希爾頓滑浪者天堂(Hilton Surfers Paradise)將高雅的度假風格,帶到澳洲最具活力的城市之一。 這座雙弧線的塔樓中,擁有希爾頓飯店(Hilton Hotel)、精品商場,以及由希爾頓(Hilton)管理的獨立住所,只需步行兩分鐘,就能抵達滑浪者天堂(Surfers Paradise)的白色沙灘。 這裡有太多新鮮的事物了,我們會協助您,在各式各樣的獨特服務中,規畫出具有個人風格的輕鬆活動,這一切都只是為了讓您的假期更完美。 這裡是澳洲最具有活力的熱鬧地區,現在更多了絕佳的時尚風格住所 – 希爾頓滑浪者天堂(Hilton Surfers Paradise)。
Enjoy the view in a One Bedroom City View Residence, where vast windows frame a panorama of the beautiful Gold Coast Hinterland and Surfers Paradise skyline. The versatile open-plan layout of an extra-spacious Residence and the convenience of a modern laundry and fully-equipped kitchen with state of the art appliances makes it an ideal retreat for a few day or a few weeks. The Residences are made even better with Hilton's world-famous service and hospitality coming as a standard.
World renowned Hilton hospitality meets spacious contemporary living in a Two Bedroom City View Residence. With separate living and dining areas, private balconies and over-sized bathrooms, as well as all the convenience of your own kitchen and laundry, these generous Residences have everything you need for a relaxing stay with family or friends - and then some. Vast windows infuse the space with abundant light, and showcase spectacular views of Surfers Paradise and the Gold Coast Hinterland. With Hilton's world-famous service coming as a standard, the Residences really do offer the best of both worlds.
Soak up some of the most spectacular ocean views on the Gold Coast from the panoramic windows that frame a Two Bedroom Ocean Residence. Modern, stylish and ultra-spacious these Residences combine Hilton's world famous service and hospitality standards with contemporary, apartment style living to deliver a truly exceptional accommodation option. Separate living and dining areas, private balconies and oversized bathrooms, create the ultimate retreat for families, friends or group stays.
Imagine waking up to the picturesque outlook of the Surfers Paradise skyline and glorious Gold Coast. Located on the upper floors of the hotel, level 33 and above, a Two Bedroom Two Bathroom Ocean View Sky High Residences takes indulgence to a whole new level combining the exceptional benefits of a modern kitchen and laundry, separate living and dining areas, private balconies and over-sized bathrooms with all of Hilton's five star services. The Sky High Residences are nothing short of breath taking, enjoy the picturesque views as you soar more than 80 metres above the spectacular city.
In a Three Bedroom Two Bathroom Ocean View Residence, the panoramic views over Surfers Paradise are just the beginning. For families and groups, this is the perfect accommodation solution. With three bedrooms and two bathrooms, space is abundant and rooms are infused with natural light through the vast windows. Add to this the versatile open plan layout featuring separate living and dining areas, and the levels of luxury and convenience are irresistible. The kitchen, complete with every imaginable appliance, awaits should you want to prepare a meal.
The spectacular Four Bedroom Ocean View Residence is ideal for families and groups, comfortably sleeping up to 10 people. Prepare meals in the fully equipped kitchen, complete with Miele appliances, which overlooks the generous living and dining areas, as well as the clear blue waters of the Pacific Ocean. The master bedroom with en suite bathroom can transform into a room with two single beds, and three additional double rooms offer more space and privacy. Enjoy all the comforts of home with functional amenities such as a washing machine, dryer and laundry tub, and stay entertained with a 37 inch television. Special touches include fluffy bathrobes, slippers and magazines.
Experience the sheer indulgence of Hilton Surfers Paradise's breathtaking four bedroom, five bathroom Sub Penthouse Suite. Exemplifying Hilton's impeccable style and level of service the Sub Penthouse Suite features immaculate design, awe-inspiring views of the Pacific Ocean and comes with the ultimate convenience of local airport transfers and a "Personal Valet" to assist with every aspect of your stay, including any special requests. The Sub Penthouse Suite provides separate living and dining areas, a fully equipped laundry, and kitchen with De longhi appliances, designer furniture and art pieces, built in surround sound, and state of the art mood lighting. Pure bliss.
Enjoy views of the Surfers Paradise skyline or Gold Coast Hinterland as you relax in the comfort and style of a Guest Room with contemporary decor, a king size Hilton Serenity bed and luxurious Crabtree and Evelyn amenities. Watch a movie on the 37 inch LCD television and stay connected with high-speed internet access. Located on levels three to 15 of the Orchid Tower.
Soak up everything the Gold Coast has to offer from your own balcony with glimpses of the ocean and Surfers Paradise beach. Enjoy a great nights' sleep in your modern King Deluxe Room with a king size Hilton Serenity bed, down pillows and luxurious linens. Each room features a 37 inch LCD television, high-speed wireless internet access and an elegant bathroom, with luxury bathroom amenities by Crabtree and Evelyn. Located on levels seven to 13 of the Orchid Tower.
Modern, spacious and sophisticated, a King Executive Room offers partial ocean, city or Hinterland views and access to the hotel's Executive Lounge with daily continental breakfast, sunset drinks and antipasto. Kick back on your king size Hilton Serenity bed and watch a movie with a freshly brewed coffee from your pod machine. Request a bath or a balcony and soak up the atmosphere of Surfers Paradise. Located on levels 14 to 15 of the Orchid Tower.
Feel the stress melt away in a King Relaxation Room, where spanning windows showcase breathtaking vistas over the beach and ocean. The additional space in this 54 square metre room provides the ideal environment to enjoy a freshly-brewed pod coffee. A bathroom complete with walk-in shower, and luxury Crabtree and Evelyn amenities, is an indulgent space to rejuvenate the senses for the ultimate escape. Enjoy access to the hotel's Executive Lounge, offering a space to enjoy continental breakfast, sunset drinks and antipasto amid luxury and seclusion. Located on levels six to 15 of the Orchid Tower.
Intelligently designed to be the ultimate restful retreat, a King Relaxation Suite features a separate living space for you to relax and unwind. Rejuvenate in the beautiful bathtub with Crabtree and Evelyn amenities, take in views of the Surfers Paradise skyline from the balcony and enjoy the perfect cup from the pod coffee machine. Best of all each King Relaxation Suite includes exclusive access to the hotel's private Executive Lounge with continental breakfast, sunset drinks and antipasto. Located on levels six to 15 of the Orchid Tower.
Relax in this contemporary and spacious room which has been specifically designed to perfectly accommodate the mobility impaired with strobe alarm and large bathroom featuring roll-in shower and grab bars. Enjoy plenty of natural light and views of the Gold Coast Hinterland or city. With King or Twin bedding (on request), 37 inch LCD television for your enjoyment, you can relax in contemporary surroundings in the heart of Surfers Paradise. Special touches include daily newspaper, bespoke pillow menu and luxury bathroom amenities by Crabtree and Evelyn.


text: Catrin volunteers in Uganda! Donate I've signed up to the Uganda Volunteer Project with the charity, East African Playgrounds to raise £800 to help bring the gift of play to the children of Uganda. I will be going to Uganda to live and work within a local primary school to help build a playground.A playground is a classroom in disguise, children don't know they are learning, they don't feel like they are learning, but really they are taking in the whole world whilst playing with their friends. I want to give this gift to the children of Uganda, can you please help by donating towards my fundraising.A breakdown of where the costs go can be found at https://www.eastafricanplaygrounds.org/catrin-in-Uganda Catrin Fry


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Andrew Short is a National Geographic Grantee and assistant professor of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology at the University of Kansas. An entomologist by training and at heart, Short is currently in Suriname, South America searching for aquatic insects to study patterns of freshwater biodiversity that will inform both science and conservation.
And we're off! My postdoc Devin Bloom and I just landed in Paramaribo, the capital city of Suriname. From here, we'll make final preparations for our ultimate destination, Tafelberg ("table mountain" in Dutch). Although not the tallest peak in Suriname (that honor goes to the nearby Juliana Top), it is special because it is the only tepui in the country and the eastern most on the continent.
Tepuis are fortress-like sandstone mesas that are found in this region of South America. Formed largely by erosion of the surrounding sediments rather than uplift or volcanism, these ancient sentries tower over the surrounding jungles, with some reaching 3000 meters in elevation. Roraima, perhaps the most famous tepui, inspired the "The Lost World" by Arthur Conan Doyle and the landscapes in the movie "Up". The world's tallest waterfall, Angel Falls, plunges off Ayuan tepui in Venezeula. Although dinosaurs have yet to be found on their summits, tepuis are host to a spectacular array of endemic plants and animals. Many of these may be ancient relicts, representing real examples of Doyle's undiscovered world.A tepui rises from the Gran Sabana region of Venezuela. Photo by Andrew Short.
Compared to more notable tepuis, Tafelberg is small and lonely. It rises to a relatively modest 1000 meters, and is set hundreds of kilometers east of its nearest geological kin. This has led to questions about whether Tafelberg's flora and fauna share any link with other tepuis, and if so, to what extent?
Soon, the final members of our group from the New York Botanical Garden will arrive, and on August 12, our team will be dropped off at a remote grassy airstrip near the mountain's base. From there, we will be lifted to the summit of Tafelberg by helicopter to conduct our survey. Until then, we will be finalizing the logistical and supplying details, as well as attending an international congress on the biodiversity of the Guiana Shield.
NEXT: Documenting Biodiversity in Suriname, One Stream at a Time


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For those that aren't wooed by the idea of having a hard-disk drive in their receiver, Daewoo has provided the good old fashioned solution: VHS video tape.
Looking like any regular VCR on the market, the SV900 offers pretty standard connections. Around the back there's a pair of Scarts (one RGB capable), alongside phono outputs for audio, while at the front there's the usual composite suspects.
Set-up is easy and the Freeview receiver is very efficient. Channel selection and digital text are snappy to respond and the guide scrolls through the channels with consummate ease. The VCR can be programmed using VideoPlus, which while not perfect is preferable to manual entry of times, dates etc.
The Setpal digital tuner utilised by the SV900 is more than up to the job. Colour and detail are clean and sharp and manage to neatly sidestep any issues regarding digital artefacts.
Obviously, recording to VHS means that you won't be able to maintain the quality of the original broadcast but this is no real cause for alarm.


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Billy Crystal. Ricky Gervais. Seth Rogen?
Yep. It's just been announced that the "50/50" and "Green Hornet" star will be hosting the 2012 Independent Spirit Awards from Santa Monica on February 25th.
"We're incredibly excited to have Seth as the host for the 2012 Film Independent Spirit Awards and join us in celebrating this year's exquisite films and talented filmmaking artists," said Film Independent senior director Sean McManus in an official statement. "Seth's charm, intelligence and quick wit are sure to light up the room and will make for a truly entertaining afternoon."
U.S. & World
The cancer-themed comedy "50/50," which Rogen not only co-stars in but also produced, is up for a few awards during the ceremony, including Best Feature and a Supporting Actress nod for Anjelica Huston.
We only hope Rogen can keep it together when faced with difficult-to-pronounce foreign film titles better than he did during the 2009 Oscars.
The Independent Spirit Awards will air live February 25, 2012, at 10 PM ET on IFC.


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Commercial, Products, Services, Training
By By Ernie Stephens, Editor-at-Large | April 1, 2013
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Last year, Fort Worth, Texas-based Bell Helicopter unveiled the mock-up of its model 525 "Relentless," the aircraft its designers call a "super medium" twin. Designed to carry up to 18 people in a dense seating configuration, the 10,000-to-11,000-lb. (empty weight) ship is being developed primarily with the offshore support market in mind.
To assist engineers with tweaking the 525's handling characteristics and flight deck ergonomics, Bell built a concept simulator programmed to duplicate as many parameters as possible. The company then shipped the simulator to Heli-Expo 2013 in Las Vegas in early March for attendees to try. Rotor & Wing was one of the first to be invited aboard.
For the technical purist, Bell did not actually bring a "flight simulator," which by most definitions is a machine that moves in order to give the feeling of flight. Instead, it was actually a "flight training device," or FTD, a learning tool that is laid out like an actual aircraft, but has moving graphics instead of a moving platform. But for our purposes here, I'll continue to call it a simulator.
The 525 simulator is more of a technology and cockpit ergonomics concept demonstrator made to stay on the ground. Bell explains that a customer review panel meets regularly to discuss the progress of the aircraft's design, and to use the simulator to test the outcomes. If anything disappoints the review panel, all efforts are made to correct the problem.
Consequently, sources say that the layout of the ARC Horizon and Garmin G-5000H touchscreen displays in the simulator have already been rearranged for aircraft #0001. But for now, the aircraft's unique fly-by-wire (FBW) side-stick configuration for the cyclic and the collective are features that will reach the production model. And I can see why. With just a couple of quick and easy adjustments to the high-back seat and forearm rests, sitting in the real 525 will be like sitting in an easy chair.
If the flight model of the simulator is an accurate representation of how the actual aircraft will handle, the flying example of the Bell 525 will be as automated or as basic as the pilot wants at any given time. Hover position is held by GPS information, and can be tweaked by displacing the cyclic a half-inch in the desired direction, or with the cyclic-mounted hat switch. Transitioning to forward flight, performing altitude changes and making heading adjustments is a simple matter of moving the controls farther, or "beeping" the hat switches on the collective and cyclic with more authority. To let the aircraft capture and hold the new numbers, just let the controls go. In fact, if you want to manually manipulate one control, just grab it and fly it. The 525 will automatically relinquish it to you, and maintain the others as previously directed.
For grins, I headed for an oil rig depicted about five miles dead ahead in the simulation. I made most of the approach to the pad by beeping in my heading, rate of descent, and rate of closure choices. I carried out my second approach without any automation just to find the 525's manners to be equally impressive. If the simulator is any indication of how the real aircraft will fly, pilots of the Bell 525 Relentless will find a helicopter that is comfortable, user friendly, and willing to accept as much or as little hands-on control as is offered by the aviator. It should prove to be an interesting ship to drive.
Related: Simulator News


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A missed blog post from last summer... sending warm thoughts your way this cold winter week!
Slip and Slide
Friday, January 22, 2016 | Posted by Brodd Family at 5:56 PM 0 comments
Happy Holidays!
It has been a while since we have posted, but with school starting back
up tomorrow and us headed back into the office, we wanted to share a
quick Happy Holidays post.
We headed out to Cokato Lake for Christmas this year. While the day of was pretty brown, we got 6+ inches of the white stuff on the day following Christmas.
Perfect for snowmobile rides...
Chucking tennis balls to the pups...
and snow angels!!!
We also cleaned the heavy snow off the tree branches for Grandma.
Winter is finally here! Looking forward to more fun times both in Woodbury and Cokato Lake throughout the rest of the winter! We may even get around to another blog post :-)
Monday, January 4, 2016 | Posted by Brodd Family at 5:15 PM 0 comments
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Game 1: Farmingdale State - 4, St. Joseph's - 2
Game 2: Farmingdale State - 6, St. Joseph's - 5
Farmingdale, N.Y. - The Farmingdale State baseball team improved to 24-9, 5-1 in the Skyline with two wins today over conference opponent St. Joseph's (19-17, 12-3). With the wins, the Rams secured the #1 seed for the upcoming Skyline Playoffs and will host the Semifinal and Championship rounds on April 27-29. Today marked senior day for pitcher C.J. Bula (Mohegan Lake, N.Y.), second baseman Danny DeVito (Plainview, N.Y.), third baseman Ryan McAllister (Miller Place, N.Y.), pitcher Chris Phelan (Patchogue, N.Y.) and catcher Frank Scarlato (Holbrook, N.Y.).
In game one, Phelan pitched a complete game for his sixth win of the season, striking out six and allowing seven hits with no walks and no earned runs. Phelan is now 6-1 overall with four complete games, one shutout and a 2.17 ERA.
The only scoring innings were in the bottom of the fourth for Farmingdale and the top of the fifth for St. Joe's. In the fourth, the Rams had six hits to score the four runs which would remain enough to take the victory. St. Joe's got two runs back in the fifth on two hits and one error.
Freshman second baseman Thomas Rydzewski (Franklin Square, N.Y.) went 2-for-3 for Farmingdale State, with one run scored, one walk and one RBI. McAllister finished 2-for-4 with one run and one RBI. Freshman shortstop Anthony Alvino (Lindenhurst, N.Y.) and junior first baseman Ron Remi (Massapequa, N.Y.) each had one RBI.
Game two was tied 1-1 after the first inning, before the Rams jumped ahead 5-1 with a big second inning. With one out, sophomore designated hitter Danny Paccione (Commack, N.Y.) started a hit streak with a single to left field. The Rams followed with singles from freshman shortstop Matthew Zsevc (Westbury, N.Y.), sophomore Nicholas Ventricelli (Woodbury, N.Y.) and Alvino, who would all come around to score.
St. Joe's got three back in the third and one in the fourth, but the Rams run in the bottom of the third would hold as the game-winning run. Paccione singled to center to bring home junior catcher Eric Wiener (Deer Park, N.Y.) from second.
Bula got the win in 5.1 innings to improve to 6-2 overall, striking out four with four earned runs. Freshman Michael Santagata (Brentwood, N.Y.) pitched the final inning for the save, his fourth of the season.


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any-and-all bid(redirected from Any-or-All Bids)
Also found in: Dictionary, Thesaurus.
Any-and-All Bid
A bid to buy all stock in a company available for sale at the specified price. Any-and-all bids are useful for acquiring companies during hostile takeovers. Rather than working through the board of directors, an acquirer can simply place an any-and-all bid for stock at, say, 10% over its current market price, and buy from any stockholder willing to sell.
any-and-all bid
An offer to purchase all shares offered at a specified price until a predetermined date. A firm may make an any-and-all bid for the shares of a company it intends to acquire. Compare two-tier tender offer.


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December 31, 2018
Last thoughts of 2018
Our travels have taken me to four countries, a dozen states and countless cities: US (AZ, CA, CO, MA, RI, CT, VT, NH, NJ, MS, LA & FL. Mexico (Tijuana, Los Cabos, La Paz, Cabo Plumo, Loreto), Costa Rica (San Jose, La Fortuna, Santa Teresa and Jaco) and England (London).
I have fallen HARD for hockey, but also traveled for my first love of baseball and my second, football. Saw so many great concerts and made wonderful memories with friends and family near and far.
I've watched my family take on new challenges and exceed their goals. I couldn't be more proud!
This year we celebrated 21 years together. It's been an amazing adventure. I'm so lucky to have him by my side.
After a run of some really tough years; this one has been so good, I don't want to let it go. Let's hope it's just beginning.
May 2019 be the year to thrive.
Posted by Kellee at 6:10 PM 3 comments:
December 25, 2018
Christmas Wishes!
I am happy to be home to celebrate with family. To create new memories and continue old traditions we hold most dear.
Merry Christmas!
Posted by Kellee at 9:24 AM No comments:
December 13, 2018
Thanks a Latte
Hey all! I really thought I'd be back with some regularity after the summer, but life had other plans. As it turned out I only had access to a PC at work. The one at home fizzled out ages ago, and I'd occasionally use Frank's laptop, but now that he travels majority of the time it goes on the road with him. Construction is booming so it leaves me little time to tinker with side projects. However, I finally bit the bullet and joined the world of on the go computing. I bought myself a Surface Go. This should put an end to the excuses.
I have pretty much the whole year to highlight so there is no shortage of adventures and tidbits to share. If you've stuck with me despite the crickets, thank you! I mean that from the bottom of my heart. And if you're new around here, welcome! Let's clear the cobwebs and get back to it.
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Hello Washington!
2 posts • Page 1 of 1
Re : Hello Washington!
I know your post is old but if you still check in where do you live in Wa?
- Registered User
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- Joined: Sat Nov 11, 2006 02:44 pm
Hello Washington!
Hi, I am in Washington and i hope to make some friends on here. I noticed there aren't a lot of new post on this forum in the washington thread, but im always around and i have been apart of this forum for awhile and I do move a lot lol. feel free to post or email!
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Ku Klux Klan
Ku Klux Klanko͞o˝ klŭks klăn [key], designation mainly given to two distinct secret societies that played a part in American history, although other less important groups have also used the name. The first Ku Klux Klan was an organization that thrived in the South during the Reconstruction period following the Civil War. The second was a nationwide organization that flourished after World War I. Subsequent groups calling themselves the Ku Klux Klan sprang up in much of the South after World War II and in response to civil-rights activity during the 1960s.
Sections in this article:
- Introduction
- The First Ku Klux Klan
- The Klan after World War II
- The Second Ku Klux Klan
- Bibliography
The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2012, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.
See more Encyclopedia articles on: U.S. History


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First Continental Mortgage, Ltd. is a full-service mortgage banking company committed to developing and nurturing relationships with REALTORS®, home builders and our customers. As a company, our Core Values define what we stand for and represent our commitment to each other and to our customers. These values are reflected in our actions and form the foundation of how we build and maintain all of our relationships.
The actions of First Continental Mortgage, Ltd. and each of its associates will be guided by these five Core Values:
Flexibility — We are a customer-centric organization, committed to being sensitive and responsive to the individual needs of our valued employees, home-builder partners, Realtors® and our customers.
Integrity — We do what we say we will do, earning the trust and loyalty of both our customers and our colleagues. Our relationships are based upon ethics, integrity, mutual respect and fairness in all our dealings.
Responsibility — We have a passion for excellence and we take personal responsibility for our own actions and the positive financial results of First Continental Mortgage, Ltd.
Service — We provide exemplary service to our clients and to each other.
Teamwork — We have great confidence and trust in the capabilities and intentions of our employees. We work together to do what is best for our customers, the organization and for each other.


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I know the emperor was actuly pulled off the market do to a bad sculpt then repacked into the dvd 3 packs. I got lucky and picked one up but I never did see another one again.
thats cool so I just talked with my friend and it was hasbro canada that told him about the emperor piece after we put out his 10 cases of this wave witch none had a emperor in it. But I do have one personly but I wanted to see where the rumor was started.
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Running init 0 in the global zone to cleanly shut down a Solaris system also runs init 0 in each of the non-global zones on the system. Note that init 0 does not warn local and remote users to log off before the system is taken down.
Use this procedure to cleanly shut down a zone. To halt a zone without running shutdown scripts, see How to Halt a Zone.
You must be the global administrator in the global zone to perform this procedure.
Become superuser, or assume the Primary Administrator role.
To create the role and assign the role to a user, see Using the Solaris Management Tools With RBAC (Task Map) in System Administration Guide: Basic Administration.
Log in to the zone to be shut down, for example, my-zone, and specify shutdown as the name of the utility and init 0 as the state.
global# zlogin my-zone shutdown -y -g0 -i 0
Your site might have its own shutdown script, tailored for your specific environment.
You cannot use the shutdown command in non-interactive mode to place the zone in single-user state at this time. See CR 6214427 for more information.
You can use an interactive login as described in How to Use Interactive Mode to Access a Zone.


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My unexpected shopping usually begins with a trip
to the mall to do something else other than shop for myself.
It may also happen while I am looking at a blog and
then spot something I like.
Or when I get an email from a store I have purchased from....
Well, these were a result of me going to the mall:
Christian Siriano for Payless black pointy heels on sale for 36.38 USD
"Teddy bear clings to hot air balloon" necklace for 4.27 USD
Silver stretch ring to be used to adorn my pony tails for 1.60 USD
Blue and turquoise braided bracelet for 1.06 USD
A starfish ring to match my starfish cuff.
Via ebay for 3.00 USD including shipping.
Five new items in the closet=
January total 46.31 USD


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These days, a perpetual rainy mist hangs over Cypress Mountain. For those trying to ensure that the venue will be ready to hold Olympic events starting tomorrow, it could just as easily be the smoke of battle.
During the past month, the Vancouver Organizing Committee and the weather have been at war, and nowhere more so than on this suburban mountain that is set to host the snowboard and freestyle skiing events.
After a historically warm January, the mountainside is mottled with the earthen spots of a receding winter, forcing organizers to import snow from distant peaks and passes by truck and helicopter simply to have enough to hold a competition.
On the eve of the Olympics, the big story in Vancouver is still the weather, with fog potentially wreaking havoc on the Olympic schedule throughout the weekend.
But what organizers can control, they have – including enough reserve snow piled at the base of Cypress's Black Mountain and covered in tarps to make sure the venue can survive even if not a single flake of snow falls for the entire Olympics.
"The course is fine," says former Olympic gold medalist Jonny Moseley, who surveyed the moguls run Thursday. "All this about the course sliding off the hill and there being no competition has been a bit hysterical."
While less than ideal, "these types of conditions are nothing new to these competitors," Moseley says amid a squall of driving sort-of snow – somewhere between wet snow and soupy sleet. Such conditions, he says, "won't affect the results."
In many ways, the causes for Moseley's confidence can be traced back to a single e-mail sent on Jan. 7. Despite a perfect start to the winter, with six feet of snow blanketing Cypress, the weather had turned by the new year. By Jan. 7, with the weather only getting milder, Vancouver organizers sent word to their Cypress team: It was time for Plan B.
The e-mail set in motion a massive logistical effort that allows Stephen Bourdeau, spokesman for the Cypress venue to say confidently that "the fields of play are ready" – even amid Friday's slush-storm.
It is an impressive achievement. Cypress looks less like a winter wonderland than a snowscape under siege. The snow is bruised brown by the struggle to survive, and everywhere the earth gurgles as the snow pack liquefies into rivulets of running water. Drops of water freckle signs and fence posts as though the venue itself were perspiring with the effort to remain snowbound.
Since Dec. 7, the race to make Cypress ready has involved moving 57 tons of straw and enough snow to fill Big Ben 20 times, the fruit of more than 300 helicopter trips and 350 truckloads. The last truckload, bringing fresh snow from an inland mountain pass, was scheduled to arrive Friday night, Mr. Bourdeau says.
The reviews from athletes have so far been mostly favorable. "The course is in beautiful shape," said 2002 Olympic moguls silver medalist Shannon Bahrke after a training run Tuesday. "As soon as it gets a little more skier traffic, it's going to be perfect."
Per Spett of Sweden agreed Thursday. After several days on the course, "now we're used to the conditions," he says.
The greater concern going forward – both here and in Whistler – are weather delays. No amount of preparation can do anything about fog, wind, heavy snow, or rain – conditions that could cause postponements.
The rain games?
The forecast is not promising, calling for more of the rain and fog that has socked Cypress since the middle of the week.
At its last press conference before the opening ceremonies, the Vancouver Organizing Committee (VANOC) spent much of the time talking about contingencies if skiing events are postponed. Asked if she was being alarmist, Cathy Priestner Allinger, executive vice president of sport and games operations said she was being prudent.
One Canadian journalist at the event fretted that the Olympics might be remembered as "the Rain Games."
To be sure, Vancouver has faced its challenges. Weather forecasters told the committee that events at Cypress would be imperiled only during a 1-in-100 winter.
"We got a 1-in-100 winter," said VANOC Chief Executive John Furlong.
It was the warmest January in Vancouver history.
In December, however, it looked as if VANOC might face the opposite problem: too much snow. One Cypress official noted that, in 1999, the base was 40 feet. In some places the snow was so deep that it covered the chair lifts and needed to be scooped away to allow them to operate.
Now, that would seem a far more suitable challenge for a Winter Olympics. But Cypress's Bourdeau is confident that no weather-related delays – be they rain or fog – will make the venues permanently unplayable.
"The Olympic Games are 16 days long, and a lot could happen in that time," he says. "But we have reserves for 2-1/2 weeks."


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President Bush's "Plan for Victory" refuses to set a timetable for withdrawing US troops from Iraq on the basis that a premature departure could turn the country into "a safe haven for terrorism and a launching pad for attacks on America."
On the contrary, convincing Muslims and Sunni Iraqis, the backbone of the rebellion in Iraq, that US troops will return home sooner, not later, is prerequisite to dismantling the terrorist network headed by Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, the Jordanian-born emir of Al Qaeda, as well as securing peace in the war-torn country. The presence of foreign forces has not only divided Iraqis and fueled local armed resistance but it has given impetus to Al Qaeda for building a foothold in the Anbar Province in western Iraq, the heart of the Sunni territory.
Iraqis themselves are eager for coalition forces to depart. For example, a new poll by several news organizations, including ABC and Time magazine, found that two-thirds of Iraqis said they oppose the presence of US and coalition troops - 14 percentage points higher than in February 2004. Nearly 60 percent disapprove of how the US has acted in Iraq. Nearly half want US forces to leave soon. Reassuring Sunnis that the United States is genuine about leaving Iraq is key to convincing them to lay down their arms and instead confront the Zarqawi network.
Last month, in a rare moment of consensus, Iraq's political factions, represented by more than 100 Shiite, Sunni, and Kurdish leaders, collectively called for a timetable for withdrawal of foreign forces at an Arab League-sponsored reconciliation conference in Cairo.
Although a pullout date was not specified, it was an important symbolic gesture from Shiites, who now control Iraq's government, to Sunni Arabs who feel disfranchised and marginalized. In another effort by Shiites and Kurds to compromise with Sunnis, Iraqi leaders condemned terror attacks and religious backing for them, while broadly acknowledging a general right to resist foreign occupation, distinguishing between Zarqawi's illegitimate terrorism and "legitimate national resistance."
Since the Cairo meeting, Sunni leaders and clerics, who largely boycotted the last election in January, have urged their followers to go to the polls Thursday and publicly voice their opposition to Zarqawi. Now the rallying cry in Sunni mosques all over the Sunni heartland is that the community must vote "in order not to be marginalized."
Joining Iraqi forces against the spread of Al Qaeda is necessary in paving the way toward social harmony and stable democracy. At least 10 members of the Iraqi Islamic Party have been reportedly killed since the party announced in October its decision to run in the election. Sunni leaders and clerics have accused Al Qaeda of carrying out most of the killings. After the assassination of two prominent Sunni clerics last month, the Association of Falluja Scholars, a Sunni group, pointed a finger at Zarqawi's followers whom they labeled as "collaborators with the occupation." Those strong words voiced by hard-line clerics, who support the nationalist rebellion, reveal deepening schisms with Zarqawi cohorts.
Further, a coalition of nationalist guerrillas in the Anbar region have released a joint statement urging fellow Sunnis to vote Thursday and warning Al Qaeda militants not to attack voters. This warning is another indicator of the widening rift between homegrown Iraqi fighters and the Al Qaeda network, who have been, until recently, cooperating in their efforts to expel US forces.
Zarqawi's indiscriminate slaughter of civilian Shiites reportedly pushed many Iraqis who had fought under his banner to join the Islamic Army, a local resistance faction. According to Sheikh Mahmoud Mehdi al-Sumaydai, a member of the Association of Muslim Scholars, Iraq's highest Sunni religious authority with links to the rebellion, called on Iraqis to resist not just foreign occupation but also Zarqawi's "masked terrorism." Now more and more Sunnis say Zarqawi is impeding their ability to regain a measure of political influence in the new Iraq. They resent the lumping of their nationalist resistance with Zarqawi's small but deadly operation.
Al Qaeda lacks the military capability or the broad power base for a permanent foothold in Iraq. In fact, thought prevails within the country that once US troops have withdrawn, Zarqawi would be chased out. Since the hotel bombings in Zarqawi's native Jordan, Sunni public opinion in Iraq and elsewhere turned against his global jihad ideology. Zarqawi is a creature of the war in Iraq, and his fate depends on the social turmoil there. Once Sunni Iraqis are fully brought into the new political order in Baghdad, they will find it in their own interests to defeat the terrorists in their midst.
The Cairo tentative agreement, a pivotal milestone, brought all Iraqi communities together and offered a peaceful vision - a way out of the violent struggle - that must be translated into action in a much larger reconciliation conference in late February.
The US should not cut and run from Iraq. But setting a realistic timetable for withdrawing forces is crucial to co-opting disaffected Sunnis into politics and weaning them off the armed struggle. That would also force Iraqi communities to compromise with one another and resolve their political differences. Equally important, extracting the US from Arabia's shifting sands would make young Muslims, enraged by the American occupation of an Islamic country, less receptive to Al Qaeda's global jihad call.
• Fawaz A. Gerges, a professor of Middle Eastern studies and international affairs at Sarah Lawrence College, is the author of "The Far Enemy: Why Jihad Went Global."


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We believe that the Bible is God's Word and the way he speaks to us today. At every Sunday service the bible talk is what we shape the whole service around.We record all our Sunday sermons as well as other talks.
If you're finding out about Emmanuel why not try listening to one of our recent talks? Many church members listen to the bible talks here when they've missed a Sunday service or been helping with one of the children's or young people's groups during the service.
Promise of resurrection (John 20:1-18)Richard Hopkins, April 12, 2020
Part of the John 14-21: Promises series, preached at a The Sunday Service service
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Three and a half years ago, as Barack Obama ended his first presidential visit to "The Tonight Show" – the first by any sitting chief executive on a late night comedy talk show – Jay Leno found himself in the rare position of betraying a tad of awe.
"Mr. President, I must say, this has been one of the best nights of my life," Leno told Obama. "Thank you very much, sir."
At the time, Obama was two months into his presidency and Leno was two months away from leaving "The Tonight Show."
On Wednesday, Obama is set for his record third, and possibly final, appearance as president on the seat next to Leno, who made an unlikely return to late night and is running ahead of the pack – at least in presidential interviews.
It stands to be a big night for both men.
As we've noted, one area in which Obama has distinguished himself from GOP challenger Mitt Romney is in playing the late night TV comedy circuit during campaign's homestretch. Obama went on "Late Show With David Letterman" last month and "The Daily Show With Jon Stewart" last week, each time marking his second presidential visit to the programs.
Obama, who seems to have made more entertainment show appearances than any sitting president, clearly enjoys an amiable relationship with Leno, stemming from his first invite onto "The Tonight Show" in 2006.
U.S. & World
Romney has avoided late night comedy shows since officially notching the Republican nomination in August, though he delivered a "Top Ten" list on Letterman's program last year, and guested twice with Leno, most recently six months ago. The candidate mentioned the TV stints during his controversial, secretly taped "47 Percent" speech, saying Letterman "hates" him because he went on Leno's show more times. Romney also said he turned down an invitation from "Saturday Night Live," believing the program might make him look "slapstick" and "not presidential."
Save for a surprise spot on "SNL" on the show's last pre-election installment Nov. 3., the late night TV comedy leg of the Obama campaign probably will end where it began: with Leno. In the meantime, check out an excerpt from the President's last "Tonight Show" gig and a recent political ad parody from Leno:
Hester is founding director of the award-winning, multi-media NYCity News Service at the City University of New York Graduate School of Journalism. He is the former City Editor of the New York Daily News, where he started as a reporter in 1992. Follow him on Twitter.