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Reality TV Production, Documentaries, Factual Entertainment, Unscripted Television, & More
Motion Pictures
That Move You
We believe great entertainment makes you laugh, cry, think, and come back for more. Crafting rich stories with unforgettable characters is how we do that. Whether putting the "real" in follow-docs, producing large-scale competition reality TV shows, or making award-winning documentaries, at Joke Productions our passion is creating motion pictures that move you.
In this world, there are few things more important than aligning yourself with folks you love and respect. I cannot stress enough, the greatness of Joke and Biagio, the creators and Executive Producers. The atmosphere of a set almost always trickles down from the top, and Joke and Biagio made the show an absolute joy to work on. Every time I had a problem, they were there listening and doing their best to make me comfortable…The crew…and all those I don't have space to mention here…were awesome. They made me want to stay out of fictional storytelling forever. Either that, or bring them all with me.
Read more Joke Productions Reviews


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Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) Professional Inspector
License # 6216
International Code Council (ICC)
Code-certified Residential
Building Inspector
License # 5277997-B1
Code-certified Residential Mechanical Inspector
License # 5277997-M1
Texas Association of
Real Estate Inspectors
(TAREI) member
What is a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is a visual examination of the structure and systems of a building. If you are considering buying a home, you should have it thoroughly inspected before the final purchase by an experienced and impartial professional inspector.
Why do I need a Home Inspection?
A home inspection summarizes the condition of a property, points out the need for major repairs and identifies areas that may need attention in the near future. Both buyers and sellers depend on an accurate home inspection to maximize their knowledge of the property in order to make intelligent, informed decisions before executing an agreement for the sale or purchase of the inspected property. Most homes that have an inspection will have the purchase price renegotiated based on the new information. The inspection is almost always paid for many times over with the discounts or repairs performed. Should you elect not to have an inspection, the same items that would have surfaced prior to your purchase will surface with the new buyers inspection and it may affect the selling price. An inspection is a prudent investment both financially and strategically.
How much does a Home Inspection cost?
The inspection fee for a typical single family home in the metroplex will vary from one inspection firm to another. Some of the home criteria that will change the price are size, age, features and specialty inspections required (i.e. termite, pool, radon, septic, etc.). Prices will also vary based on the experience, workload and thoroughness of the inspector. Choosing an inspection company based on price alone is often a losing proposition. Often the inspector will charge less because he needs the business (inexperienced) or because he takes less time per inspection (takes shortcuts) and can do more inspections per day. Choose wisely and consider more than price alone. A typical late model home of average size (2500 sq.ft.) will cost between $250-$300.
Can I inspect the home myself?
Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional inspector who has inspected thousands of homes in their career. An inspector develops a sixth sense (at least the good ones do) for potential issues and is familiar with the many elements of home construction and with the proper installation, maintenance and inter-relationship of its systems. Most buyers find it difficult to remain objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this may cloud their judgment. For the most thorough, accurate information about the true condition of a home, always obtain an impartial third-party inspection.
Do homes "Pass" or "Fail" Home Inspections?
No. A home inspection is an examination of the current condition of the home. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value, or a municipal inspection, which verifies compliance to local codes and standards. A home inspector will not pass or fail a house. A home inspection informs you of the homes condition and indicates which items will be in need of repair or replacement.
When should I contact the Home Inspector?
The real estate contract usually includes an option period during which you can have the home inspected. It is prudent to contact an inspector immediately after acceptance of your offer. It is very common for the buyer to procrastinate, wait until the last minute and have to choose an inspector based on their being able to perform the inspection immediately. Good inspectors are busy; contact them as soon as possible to secure a top professional.
How long should my home inspection take?
The home inspection length will vary from one home to the next. The size, age and condition will all affect the time required. An average sized, late model home typically takes 2-3 hours to inspect and another hour of report preparation.
Are all inspection reports basically the same?
The state of Texas does mandate a written report in a certain format, but most similarities end there. Some companies will provide a hand-written report with checkboxes. Others will provide what appears to be an informative binder with checkboxes. These binders are impressive looking with hundreds of pages. Unfortunately it is full of generic information, much of it unrelated to the property in question. You should look for a company that provides a thorough, narrative, easy to read and understand, computer generated report with digital documentation (pictures) of problem areas. This allows you to see the problem, clearly and up close. This is particularly helpful when there is a problem under the house, in the attic or on the roof (yes, IntelliSpect inspectors do get on the roof*). An IntelliSpect report is available for your review at sample report.
*Under safe conditions as related to roof angle, height, climatic conditions, etc.
Should I be present for the inspection?
While it is not necessary for you to be present, it is always recommended that you make time to join the inspector at the property. This allows you to observe the inspector, ask questions as you learn about the condition of the home, how the different systems work, and how to properly maintain them. If you are not able to attend the entire inspection, try being there at the end to review the report in full. This allows you to personally view any problematic issues. For those people that cannot attend (i.e. not in town, working, etc.), our narrative report with pictures will be the next best thing. Our report can be emailed or faxed the same day as the inspection.
What if the report reveals problems?
No house is perfect or problem-free. When the inspector identifies problems, it does not indicate you should not buy the house. His findings serve to educate you in advance of the purchase about the condition of the property. A seller may adjust the purchase price or contract terms if unforeseen major problems are discovered during an inspection. If your budget is tight, or if you do not want to be involved in future repair work, this information will be extremely valuable.
How do I find a good inspector?
Word of mouth, personal experiences and referrals from friends and neighbors is one of the best ways to find a home inspector. Someone who has used a home inspection service and is satisfied with the level of customer service and professionalism of that company will likely recommend a qualified professional.
The state of Texas requires licensing to perform home inspections. There are three levels of licensure: apprentice, real estate inspector and professional inspector. There are many company owners that are experienced professionals. The problem is that when the inspector shows up, it is not the owner; it is an inexperienced trainee working under the owner. Do not be taken by this bait and switch tactic. Another alternative to finding an inspector is to consult with your realtor. Keep in mind that the realtor is part of the sales team; they have a vested interest in the deal going through. Some realtors provide a list of inspectors. Each agent is different in their selection criteria for inspectors. From our experience, many realtors prefer an inspector that finishes quickly. Some prefer a vague and basic report with few comments and some do not want a "picky" inspector creating more work for them. After all, they need this deal to go through (sorry, I couldn't resist putting that in, I've heard it quite a few times). There are many agencies that provide a "preferred" list that is made up of companies that pay a monthly fee to be on the list. This list is full of new, inexperienced and just plain sloppy inspectors.
Of course, there are quality agents that refer inspectors that are professional, intelligent, thorough and qualified. They are usually successful agents that demand full disclosure for their clients. They realize their client is paying for the inspection and that the inspector is working for the client.
What questions can I ask to make sure I am going to get the best possible inspection?
Here are some helpful tips: Ask for a sample report. Ask for recent and previous referrals. Ask if they are insured (errors and omissions insurance) and if they get on the roof (there is no better way to view the roof in hail country). Ask how long their inspection takes (stay away from the "fast" inspectors). Most of all get a feel for the inspector and how he relates to you, the client.
Customer Login
Copyright 2006 © Intellispect. All Rights Reserved.

subset: commoncrawl


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Gallery - The Lodge
Take a look inside, you won't be dissappointed!
River Rock provides the perfect western lodge atmosphere with all the comforts of home. River Rock Lodge's special touches extend from our comfortable rooms and affordable rates to our personable staff whose local knowledge of the Big Sky area ensures complete satisfaction on your dream vacation.


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Proposed law would make ski helmets mandatory in N.S.
The Canadian Press
Published Tuesday, December 6, 2011 1:32PM EST
HALIFAX - All skiers and snowboarders in Nova Scotia would be required to wear helmets under legislation introduced Tuesday.
Health Minister Maureen MacDonald says the bill would also require ski hill operators to post signs alerting people to mandatory helmet use.
But MacDonald says the responsibility of wearing helmets would rest with skiers and snowboarders.
She says inspectors would be hired to enforce the law, which could result in a fine of up to $250 for each offence.
She says there have been 11 traumatic brain injuries related to non-helmet use in the province since 2000.
The government says it intends to have the legislation in effect Nov. 1, 2012, if passed.


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Top 10 Funnest SportsCelestius
The Contenders: Page 2
Frisbee is just the best thing that ever happend since the holocaustV 2 Comments
I like the chilly breeze in your face and it is ridiculously fun!
So true
You can play full contact or just for funV 1 Comment
Come on! Its fencing! Sabre is like swashbuckling.
It's sword fighting!
Builds teamwork and forms friendships like no other sport. Great to look at.
Chearleading is AWESOME! I do it you get thrown in the air and win awards YAY! - ZebraGirl
Fun, builds friendships and is good to watch!
Builds strength, flexibility, teamwork, braveness, and it's should be number 1V 2 Comments
I LOVE LOVE LOVE LOvE LOVE motorcross I have been riding since I was 4V 1 Comment
It's fun and challenging, can be done all year roundV 1 Comment
Similar to basketball. Netball is extremely popular in Australia and it is really fun.
Snooker is awesome
It's just plain fun
Who would not like to be out in the sun, on a lake, with your friends?V 1 Comment
Come on, what's more fun than seeing who's the fastest?
What's better than being out in nature all day soaking up sun. It's so peaceful and a great way to chill out.
It is fun and miniure golf is also fun when being with your family
Irish field sport.
It's a fun sport in a pool, go to usawaterpolo.com
Not for everybody but if you want to give it a try you might just be suprised how fun freeing from gravity can be.
Cycling is so much fun! You can't deny, you feel a warm feeling on the inside when riding a bike!
Recommended Lists
Related ListsTop Ten Funnest Sports on Mario and Sonic at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games Funnest Things To Do On MySpace Top Ten Funnest Things to Do On Animal Jam 10 Funnest Things to Do In Grand Theft Auto Games Funnest Ways To Die In Video Games
List Stats
41 listings
7 years, 131 days old
Top Remixes
2. Basketball
3. Baseball
2. Rugby
3. Field Hockey


text: This tune off Damien Jurado's new album, Maraqopa, contains perhaps my favorite lyrics in the set. Collected within a simple folk structure, wordless hummed hook, and a deceptively upbeat feel are verses capped off with a number of cutting couplets. It's unclear who the poor sap is that let Jurado down despite being formerly "more like a hero," but let's hope they can handle hearing Elliott Smith-worthy bites like this: "So fed up still you're starving on paper / You are no him, but he's you, only better." Then again, as Smith used to say, songs should never be assumed to be autobiographical; they're more like dreams. So when this Seattle songwriter adds that he's "only seen photos of Washington," it's safe to presume we're merely scratching the surface. Whatever specific story, if any, might be lurking within this dark undercurrent, it sure sounds pretty here. Watch Jurado perform an inspired solo-acoustic version at a restaurant in Amsterdam for FaceCulture below:


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No marketing budget? Your assets might be larger than you think.
Posted by Ilise Benun on
If you have a small (or nonexistent) marketing budget, like many new businesses do, how can you compete with bigger companies with large marketing budgets?
In this week's episode of Project Grow, solutions are discussed. Allison O'Neill, owner of Soho children's shop, Bundle, shares what's working for her, and I share my advice:
What other assets do you have besides money? Perhaps you have a large network and email list of loyal customers? This can be more valuable than money when it comes to marketing. Your network can endorse your product, which means a lot in this cluttered business environment.
Watch the video:


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DOs & DON'Ts for Naturally Cleaning Burnt Pots or Pans
It's not that we're absent-minded, exactly. We're just trying too hard to multitask. "We" refers to a segment of the population that spends an inordinate amount of time online, Googling remedies for our recurring, shameful problem … burnt pots. Have you ever put a saucepan full of rice or beans on the stove and merrily gone off to hang a load of laundry or pay a batch of bills, only to return to the kitchen (too late!) and been confronted with that horrible burning smell? Then you need the lowdown on naturally cleaning burnt stainless steel pots and pans – what works, what doesn't.
DON'T try:
Soaking (and Hoping)
For more years than I'd care to admit, pouring hot or cold water into the crusty black mess on the bottom of the pot and leaving it all to sit for a few hours was my method of choice. Second only to avoidance, it made me feel that at least I was taking some kind of action. Problem was, while I was doing something, the water soak was not. It didn't make the burn any worse, but neither did it make it appreciably easier to clean.
DON'T try:
Elbow Grease
Since the patient "wait and see" approach was such a dismal failure, I decided I'd show the burned-on goop who was boss. I grabbed a scouring pad and got assertive. Still no luck … although my right biceps muscle became considerably more toned. Steel wool (the plain stuff, not the soap-saturated pads, which contain potentially toxic ingredients like sodium nitrite and titanium dioxide) was next on my go-to list; the results were more successful but hardly worth the huge effort. Besides, it scratched my stainless, as did my other elbow grease-y method, scraping with a knife. Not great for the knife, either.
DON'T try:
When I strayed out of my cleaning comfort zone, I was ready to trust suggestions from anonymous posters on the Internet more than my own tired brain. Filling the poor pot with heavily salted water and boiling hard sounded promising. At least it didn't involve any scary-sounding chemicals and I vowed that I wouldn't leave my pot unattended this time. Unfortunately the salt water boil worked about as well as … or rather, as badly as the solutions I had come up with on my own.
DON't try:
Baking Soda Paste
Baking soda is one of the stars of the environmentally aware cleaning scene these days. I got very excited when I first heard about the idea of using baking soda paste as a substitute for oven cleaner and other harsh cleaning agents. The result was that I went on a binge, merrily spreading it on all sorts of things, from the inside of my oven to my stainless steel pots. The moment of reckoning came, though, when I tried to wipe the now dry paste off. It left a gritty, messy residue that was very difficult to remove completely. And since my goal was to clean eco-friendly and easy, baking soda paste was a fail in my book.
DO try:
Next I tried a suggestion from Apartment Therapy – a 50-50 vinegar and water solution. After putting this mix into my long-suffering pot, I turned on the burner and let it simmer for a minute or two. Then I turned off the flame and added a couple of tablespoons of baking soda, figuring that, mixed with liquid, it would be easier to get rid of afterwards. And voila! Clean, clean stainless steel at long last! FRINGE BENEFIT: I poured the vinegar/water/soda mixture into my toilet bowl when I was finished so it could also get a bit of green clean benefit. Some folks recommend subbing stewed tomatoes (which have a high level of acidity) for the vinegar in this formula. However, experienced plumbers in Atlanta and other American cities strongly advise against disposing of solid food via the toilet.
Laura Firszt writes for networx.com.
23 Ingenious Uses for White Vinegar
Your Green Kitchen Cleaning Kit


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Rest Daily
Bone Broth
Counting Steps
Centering Before Waking
We all have visions of our future selves. Will we be strong enough to enjoy life as we grow older? Will we have the energy and the vitality to continue our hobbies or start new ones? Will we be able to travel and spend time with our family?
I recently had the fortune to spend time with my 89 year young client, Lois, and
her natural vibrancy and enthusiasm for life continues to intrigue and enlighten me. Once again, I realized how we can all benefit from the lessons Lois has to offer! Though humble and unaware of the positive energy her life-affirming habits exude, she agreed to share a few more tips with me (and I was able to uncover a few more by just spending time with her…)
1. Rest Daily
"At this point, I don't have a choice" said Lois. "If I only understood the benefits of slowing down once or twice a day. I usually watch the 5 o-clock news and take a short nap before dinner. This resets me, so I can be present and fully enjoy my dinner." Whether eating alone or with family, Lois believes in truly enjoying meal times. "It's one of the simplest pleasures we are offered."
2. Bone Broth
"I make my own bone broth every other week" she explained. "I've been doing this for years. I add vegetables or spinach and sometimes I make chicken soup."
The benefits of bone broth has been covered in the news recently, including: stimulation of Collagen, stronger bones, better digestion, and more youthful hair, nails and skin.
3. Counting Steps
The other day while I was training Lois, she had left her glasses upstairs and as she left to get them, I said "be careful on those steps."
To my surprise, she took a step and began to count each steps! "Wow!" I said to myself, what a great way to be present and not risk tripping. She counted them on her way up then again on her way down. It was almost like she was singing a mindful mantra.
4. Centering Before Getting Out of Bed
When I asked Lois how she feels when she wakes up, she said "a little achy" (that's to be expected when your age gets up in numbers). She used to just get up and start moving, but "that didn't feel right" she said. Now, she stays in bed for a few minutes to become mindful of the new day and to stretch and rotate her ankles and wrists. Then she feels centered and gets out of bed with better awareness and ease.
5. Community/Family
When Lois's husband passed away recently, she was concerned things might change. But having built her own community over the years by getting involved in what interests her, like the gardening club and having close family nearby, has helped her feel connected and gives her the energy to enjoy ,hobbies, family, and other life blessings. "I've always had outside interests" explained Lois, "they balanced my family and home life." She continues to connect with her friends, hobby groups and family. Even though the void of losing her husband is there, she still enjoys her days and is living a fulfilled life.
Yet more evidence that having a balance of interests and surrounding yourself with friends and loved ones helps us feel connected and more alive.
"And above all, watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. Those who don't believe in magic will never find it."
Roald Dahl


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Colors could not be determined.
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Steam generators for steam baths; electric heaters for use in steam baths; lighting fixtures for use in steam baths; electric operated aromatherapy units for use in steam baths; fragrance dispensing unit for use in steam baths
Business in Long Island City, NY


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Belonging as much to the group of "Don't" films – Don't Go In the House (1979), Don't Go In the Woods (1981) – as it does the spur of military inspired horror films of the 80s – Combat Shock (1986), The Prowler (1981) – Robert Hammer's Don't Answer the Phone in title seems like an innocuous early 80s genre entry designed to bring the same audience to the multiplex that would only months later flock to Friday the 13th, but it's something a lot more difficult to pin down and far nastier than any studio distributed slasher of its time would be.
Robert Hammer only ever directed one feature film and Don't Answer the Phone is it. Also serving as writer and producer, Hammer had only directed a few episodes of TV programs prior – but it never shows. Never feeling like a scrappy grindhouse programmer, Don't Answer the Phone stars Nicholas Worth (who would become a prolific genre character actor appearing in titles like Swamp Thing, Darkman and Barb Wire) as a bulky Vietnam vet working as a photographer who spends his downtime terrorizing and strangling women. Almost always convincing his victims – as a fashion photographer – to disrobe prior to killing them, the film feels unrelentingly sleazy – sort of like Blow Up by way of Maniac!
Originally inspired by real life serial killer The Hillside Strangler – and at one point titled The Hollywood Strangler – it's safe to say that Don't Answer the Phone doesn't retain much of its at once intended true crime credibility. This is nasty genre cinema distributed by the always reliable folks at Crown International that mainly holds up due to Worth's serious and unhinged performance. I doubt that I'm alone in wishing that Robert Hammer hadn't stopped his feature filmmaking career after one film.
Vinegar Syndrome bring Don't Answer the Phone to Blu-ray in 2017 following an already solid release by Scorpion, which retained the special features they had put on their DVD release prior to that. And the result here is an obvious improvement. Featuring a new 4K scan from the original camera negative, this is easily the best the film has ever looked on home video. It's a much brighter presentation, void of damage and with a healthy grain structure intact. This is beautiful work and anyone on the fence about double dipping can use this new transfer as justification. The DTS HD-MA 1.0 track fairs similarly, with no noticeable issues present and the entire (great) score gets its own isolated track as well.
Supplements start with a very nicely put together booklet featuring liner notes by Michael Gingold and reproductions of marketing materials. Supplements from previous editions have been carried over here. Starting with commentary with Hammer, which is a great track detailing the origins of the film and its real life inspirations as well as the release, censorship and working with the cast. There's also a brief intro with Hammer which can be played along with the feature. We get a 14 minute interview with Worth titled "Answering the Phone" which features the actor being very candid, talking about his start as an actor as well as working on the film and how he feels about it now (though this was recorded over ten years ago and he's since passed away). From there we get "For What It's Worth", a 9 minute career overview of Worth which goes into his other work like Swamp Thing. Rounding out the package is a promotional gallery and a trailer and TV spot.
This is the definitive release of Don't Answer the Phone. Vinegar Syndrome's new 4K scan is gorgeous and they have carried over all of the supplemental content of the previous edition and added some more, including a nicely produced booklet. Highly Recommended.


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Police and firefighters blocked off the 1500 block of Pearl Street and side streets near downtown Denver on Tuesday morning as they investigated a report of a toxic substance.
At least two Denver police officers were sent to Denver Health Medical Center to be evaluated after possible exposure to mercury sulfate, police said.
The incident started at about 9 a.m. inside an apartment on the block and police took precautionary measures as part of the response, said Sonny Jackson, a Denver Police Department spokesman.
Mercury sulfate is a chemical compound that can be poisonous if ingested or exposed to the eyes or skin.
The hazmat team determined there was no exposure and investigators have deemed the apartment and the block safe. No one was injured.
Traffic was backed up in the area for about an hour.
Kieran Nicholson: 303-954-1822, firstname.lastname@example.com or twitter.com/kierannicholson


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Art show submissions
Fort Gordon Upcycled Arts show seeks submissions during April; anyone with a military ID ages 5 years or older is invited to participate; at least 90 percent of the artwork must be recycled goods; deadline to submit pieces is April 15; (706) 791-7881
Weight loss
TOPS meeting every Thursday morning from 8:30-10 a.m. in Harlem at the Harlem Baptist Church Youth Center. Join us as we take off pounds sensibly. For more information contact Mary Player at (706) 496-5969.
To paraphrase Michael Corleone, "Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in."
Honestly, I try not to expound unnecessarily, but in my world, there's no such thing as a slow news day. I've almost always got a viewpoint and I'm just itching to share it; that either makes me good at what I do, or incredibly annoying, perhaps both.
Therefore, three current events have caught my attention lately, and I find I must speak up or risk expulsion from "The Know-It-All Club for Southern Widder-Women."
The tradition of presenting the Living Last Supper at Fort Gordon can be traced back to 1983 when Chaplain and Mrs. Medlock brought the play with them from Germany.
The original play was written by Ernest Emurian in 1954.
The program covers the last days of Jesus and his disciples prior to his crucifixion.
TOPS meeting every Thursday morning from 8:30 a.m.-10 a.m. in Harlem, Ga. at the Harlem Baptist Church Youth Center. Join us as we take off pounds sensibly. For more information contact Mary Player at (706) 496-5969.
Ezra Rodriegus Dixon, 38, of the 3000 block of Pinnacle Place Drive in Hephzibah, was charged with driving under the influence Dec. 19, 2015, and sentenced to 10 days in jail, 12 months probation and a $1,055 fine.
Floyd Curry, 59, of the 3000 block of McCladdie drive in Appling was charged with driving under the influence Sept. 26, 2016, and sentenced to 12 months probation and a $1,055 fine.
Adams Brothers Properties, LLC. to Lindsay A. Foster; 145 Village Run; $100,900
Michael David Bell to Michelle Irvin; 812 Stoneview Dr.; $136,000
Crisogono Francisco to Carleigh B. Vollbrecht; 413 Starling Court; $134,000
Euchee Forest, LLC. to Ivey Residential, LLC; 435 Brantley Cove Cir.; $32,500
Take a drive around Columbia County, and it seems like everyone has some type of fruiting tree or vine growing in the landscape. One of the most neglected fruit-bearing plants in the area is the muscadine. Muscadines are grapes native to America, and they are a staple of home gardens all over the Southeast. The muscadine vine can be recognized by the single-wire trellis and the seemingly thousands of entangled woody shoots. Following a few simple steps will greatly increase the health of your vines and produce bigger, sweeter grapes.
A new public art project is in the works to honor McDuffie County blues legend Willie McTell.
The Thomson-McDuffie County Convention and Visitors Bureau has charged 12 local artists with creating and designing 7-foot-tall polyurethane replicas of the blind musician's instrument of choice, a 12-string Stella guitar, to be included in the art project dubbed McTell's 12-String Strut.
Auto auction
Salvation Army Auto Auction Preview Days, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. March 2-4, auction March 5; Salvation Army, 1384 Greene St.; customers are encouraged to view inventory, look under hood and start vehicles during Preview Days; inventory is listed on our Web site; SalvationArmyCars.com\
Inspirational lunch
Columbia County News-Times ©2018. All Rights Reserved.


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Secrets Of GamesSecrets, News, Tips, Guides, Cheats and More
Dragon Age IIPosted on March 20, 2011
REVIEW: Its streamlined mechanics and more action-oriented combat should appeal to console players, but hardcore fans of PC RPGs may feel slighted.
Go to Source (GamePro)
Dragon Age 2 reviewPosted on March 20, 2011
To make Origins, BioWare dredged up buckets of backstory from the minds of their best writers. A new land was invented, branded with religious intolerance and inherent racism. Then, once the continent of Thedas was concrete, BioWare forgot they'd invented all that engaging stuff and slapped a typical 'kill the big bad thing' fantasy plotline on top. For all its size and wonder, Origins didn't make full use of its fascinating world.
Dragon Age 2 does it right. It's still an RPG epic, it still takes upwards of 50 hours to finish. It's still got a deep, complex combat system, and it's still got a well-defined supporting cast. But it's also an RPG that wears its mythology proudly, confident in its goal of charting the rise of a complete and utter badass. You.
We expect our RPG heroes to experience a gradual learning process, gaining skill and abilities as they discover that, ahh, the pointy end of the sword is best inserted into an enemy. But the first time I controlled Hawke, I had access to top-tier combat skills. Surrounded by Darkspawn on a hillside, I murdered with wild abandon.
DA2's combat is spring-loaded. Cooldown periods and time penalties are just as integral as they were in Origins, but this time they happen at end of lightning fast moves. I played a rogue. My backstab started with Hawke hurling an exploding flask to the floor, before reappearing behind an enemy and driving his main blade into their spine. The whole move took a second to execute, and impacted flesh with a shudder-inducing squelch. Another move catapulted me out of battle with an instant backflip, letting me escape from an imminent battering.
I could happily list all my skills and the ways they eviscerated people for the rest of this review, but I have a word count. Last one. My favourite skill was called 'Annihilation.' An upgrade of the high-level 'Assassination' move, it made Hawke simply jab two blades into the face of the foe standing nearest to him – at which point, they'd usually burst into a fine scarlet mist. For every class, every combat skill kills something in a new and exciting way.
Have beard, will slay
Hawke's ties to the first game are explicit. He or she (your choice) starts Dragon Age 2 as a refugee from Lothering. Lothering, for those of you unfamiliar with the first game, was twatted square-on by the Blight of the Darkspawn (read as: 'pseudoorcs', fantasy noobs). Hawke (I'll use the male pronoun here purely because I played as a dude) managed to escape, with family and fantastically trimmed beard in tow. At the time of the hillside combat just described, he was making his way to the city of Kirkwall.
I killed the final Darkspawn, and the camera yanked out and away to a darkened room, and a dwarf with a hairy chest. It's ten years later.
The fight was a flashback. The dwarf is being forced to tell Hawke's story by a mysterious woman dressed in the robes and symbols of Thedas' hyper-religious Chantry. This is Dragon Age 2's big conceit, and part of the reason the game hangs together so well. The dwarf is Varric, and he's telling the story all wrong. Varric is a companion and potential party member, and knows more than most about his bearded buddy's motivations – but he's also an inveterate story-embellisher.
The woman explains the situation: the world is on the brink of war and Hawke – the 'Champion of Kirkwall' – can help. There are only two certainties: the first, that Hawke arrived in Kirkwall. The second, that ten years later he somehow became the city's champion. She wants to fill in the blanks.
Actually, there are three certainties. The third is unwritten, but simple: any way you play Hawke, he remains one suave bastard. His tone sits firmly on the plummy side of 'commanding', but very few of the dialogue options have him come across as anything less than mildly awesome.
The game's developers have nicked Mass Effect's conversation wheel and split most interactions into a threetiered system: saintly, aggressive, and – most fun – cheeky.
Only very occasionally did I feel neutered by my choice. I've typically approached BioWare games as the reincarnation of some major saint, waiving rewards and helping puppies save their lost kittens. I'd resigned myself to selecting the goody-twoboots option throughout Dragon Age 2, and cringing as I politely thanked the man who tried to stab my kidneys out. Instead, nice-o-Hawke is just as judgemental as his chums loloHawke and HAWKE-SMASH – he merely phrases things with a touch more tact.
Chat roulette
I found myself flipping between responses depending on the situation – actually using the full dialogue spectrum. The lack of an arbitrary karma system meant I could do so without fear of being pigeonholed. Guy trying to extort money from the dragon-infested mine I own half a stake in? You shall feel my tongue-wrath! Cower as I shout! Lovely elf stabbed by her deranged husband? Best be nice to her as she splutters her lifeblood all over the floor. Soz, elfy!
Rub up against one of the game's Serious Moral Choices™ and your once-neat conversation wheel goes all muddled. In my first year, I rescued a mage from the dictatorial control of the Templars. Three years later, I faced his mother who explained he'd crossed into the Fade – Dragon Age's strange netherworld – and ran the risk of becoming someone who could melt other peoples' brains by coughing wrong. Launching into the wibbly half-light of that realm, I had to make a genuine choice: destroy the magicusing faculties of this kid's mind, or let him become a danger to society. I put my mouse down, stood up, and paced around my room. It's a rare feat when a game encourages walking, yet Dragon Age 2 does it all the time.
The world of Thedas is one of racism and fascism: only in the second game have BioWare really come to terms with this and brought up some genuinely dark questlines.
The ten-year-long story arc adds to the burden of your choices. In another game, I'd have spared the mage boy, tootled off to another town and forgotten all about him. And saved the world next week sometime. But here, with ten years to play with, you have to consider the long game. Letting a danger loose in an earlier year can see it come back to bite you in the arse later, like a timetravelling dog who loves biting arses.
Worse, the people you've wronged won't necessarily target you. You're all right, you've got knives as big as your arm and a pocket full of potions. Your mum, on the other hand, lives alone in a house in town. You're off adventuring, and you can't always be there to protect her. Wouldn't it be safer just to stove this upstart's face in now?
In the end, I had to sever the unfortunate boy's connection to the Fade, and leave him a few intellectual steps above a carrot in the process. He now hangs around the Viscount's Keep, talking in a quiet monotone and making me feel bad.
Dragon Age 2's story is driven by these moments of tension and forced choice. They always feel organic and truly contextual.
Small world
Outside of a few trips to the Deep Roads and a saunter to a Dalish camp, everything in Dragon Age 2 happens in Kirkwall. At first, I felt a little let down by the lack of escape from that single city, but ten years in the same place also breeds a welcome familiarity. There are benefits to knowing a city backwards: it let me get a complete grasp on the game's complicated political situation.
Hightown is home to the rich and idle, Darktown is a disused mine full of beggars and brigands. Out by the docks, there's a Qunari compound. These giants have been redefined since Origins' Sten – taller, broader and more muscular than a man as well as growing a snazzy set of horns, they practise a societal fundamentalism that gnaws at the authority of the establishment. There's a constant back-and-forth between the conflicting views, and your Hawke is free to come down on either side of the scrap. That's underpinned by a deeper struggle between the mages and the templars. The latter believe the former need to be controlled with an iron fist, and the former say they want to live free, and maybe go a little bit mad and kill loads of people. Make your allegiances clear and you'll change the course of the whole game.
Who's (had) who
So many games promise real choice but fail to deliver. Dragon Age 2 is the most impressive attempt I've seen to make the decisions players make in a game mean something. I can't wait until everyone else in the office has played it, so they can tell me what would've happened if I'd only killed person X in my sixth year in the city.
I also want to know who they slept with. DA2's romantic options are near-unconstrained. You meet a party member, chances are you can bone them (your sibling is one fortunate exception). Male, female, amalgamation of human and spiritual manifestation of justice: all are fair game. Personally, I developed a mild obsession with sexy lady pirate captain Isabela, despite (because of?) her terrifically impractical adventuring gear of a shirt and no trousers. She talked a good talk, too. Dragon Age 2's incidental conversations are splendid: ruder, funnier, and just plain better than Origins' "SO WHAT DO YOU DO THEN?" platitudes. Wandering around town, Isabela treated me to tales of orgies and hit on my friends. I was in love. Still, despite her repeatedly stated desire to defrock anyone standing within two feet of her, her wooing became a decade-long process. Eventually, our relationship matured from friends-with-sexy-benefits to live-in lovers.
But I was spoilt for choice. Most of DA2's companions are excellent; the only dud is Hawke's sibling (sister in my male playthrough), who lacks in personality. Varric is a smart-mouth dwarf, Merrill a delightfully Welsh Dalish elf, Fenris a lanky ex-slave, tattooed with veins of pure, magicgiving lyrium, and clutching a broadsword as long as his body.
My companions were more than just willing conversational partners. Dragon Age 2's combat system is rapid and satisfying, but it's also more intricate than Origins'. Each companion has their own set class, but from there, specialisation is largely up to you. I made sure to take at least one warrior with my party at all times. That meant I was rolling with ginger guardslady Aveline, or brooding elf Fenris. Both had access to a broadly similar skill tree, but couldn't be further apart in battle technique. I specced Aveline as a tank, pumping her skill points into her constitution and cunning to bolster her defence, buying and equipping her with the best armour and a gigantic shield. She screamed taunts over the din of battle to attract attention from foes, before settling into a defensive stance. Fenris went the other way. I funnelled points into his strength and trained him up with two-handed weapons. In a stand-up slugfest he was flimsy, but he rarely let it get to that: his speed and reach on the battlefield meant most enemies were on their backsides with a caved-in face before they could ready any truly devastating attacks.
Party people
Both had their place by my side, depending on the situation and my mood. I found myself rotating my party regularly – sacrilege in a lot of RPGs that demand a standard party setup to succeed, but sensible here when everyone's abilities are just so much fun. Even when I was pushed into taking a companion, their unique skill tree gave me room to choose. Anders – returning from Origins' add-on pack Awakenings – was my party's de facto healer. But as I invested more into his personal set of abilities, I unlocked two activated modes. One allowed access to more powerful healing spells, but the other turned off his capability to fix his friends in favour of upping his damage potential.
Origins' free battlefield camera is gone, but a mousewheel scroll gives the zoom you need to see the full field of play. Pausing, issuing a set of orders, then sitting back and watching the chaos unfold is a joy that never gets old. Which is lucky, because the streets of Kirkwall are filled with an improbable amount of nefarious types who want you dead.
Dragon Age 2 is not what you expect. Hell, even during preview sessions, I hadn't anticipated it being this much of a traditional sequel. But by locking down the context – the world and the politics – BioWare were free to fill their creation with more character and vitality than any title in recent memory. The best RPG of this decade? Nine more years will tell, but for now, yes.
Go to Source (PC Gamer)
Reviews: Dragon Age II Review SupplementPosted on March 10, 2011
The Escapist reviews Dragon Age II.
Go to Source (The Escapist – EscapistMagazine.com)
Dragon Age II ReviewPosted on March 10, 2011
Kirkwall, where everybody knows your name.
Go to Source (The Escapist – EscapistMagazine.com)
Another Dragon Age 2 Unlockable Goes Up For GrabsPosted on March 03, 2011
BioWare has put yet another Dragon Age 2 unlockable on the table and this one might actually be a little tough to achieve.
View Article (The Escapist – EscapistMagazine.com)
Dragon Age 2 Demo — Video Shows Gameplay, Dragons And The ChampionPosted on February 24, 2011
Dragon Age 2's demo is now available for download on the Xbox 360, PS3 and PC. The demo is the prologue of the game, minus the option to customize your character. Completing the demo earns gamers Hayder's Razor, a dwarven blase, to use when the actual game comes out in two weeks. If the demo accumulates one million downloads BioWare will reward gamers with two in-game items. Haven't played the demo yet? Watch the video below to see for yourself.
The demo gives gamers a taste of what to expect when Dragon Age 2 is released on March 8 for the PC, Xbox 360, and PS3.
Do you think Dragon Age 2 will be an improvement from Dragon Age: Origins ?
Go to Source (G4TV.com)
New Dragon Age II Champion Trailer.Posted on February 10, 2011
March 8th is the date when Bioware's kick-ass Dragon Age II is scheduled to hit your favorite gaming retail outlet but to me that is an eternal wait to get my paws on this RPG goodness.
Fortunately Bioware was kind enough to release a new Dragon Age II trailer that highlights the three character classes you get to choose for Hawke in his quest to wreck havoc and revenge.
read more (Shogun Gamer)
Trailers: Dragon Age II Champion TrailerPosted on February 10, 2011
Choose your champion's class in Dragon Age II. Will you fight as the mighty warrior, cunning mage or the nimble rogue.
Go to Source (The Escapist – EscapistMagazine.com)
Dragon Age II -Mike Laidlaw InterviewPosted on February 10, 2011
Mike Laidlaw talks about talent trees and how character gameplay has improved in this Dragon Age II interview.
Read and Post Comments | Get the full article at GameSpot
Dead Space's Isaac Clarke sneaks into Dragon Age 2 (Dragon Age 2)Posted on January 21, 2011
Above: The Ser Isaac armor set for Dragon Age 2. See the teaser for the sci-fi synergy inside
Clearly there's more than a little mutual appreciation going on between Dead Space 2 developers Visceral Games and the Dragon Age 2 crew at Bioware. Players of the latter, EA promises, will hear bards' tales recounting the exploits of demon-slaying knight Ser Isaac of Clarke. However, if that's not a cheeky enough in-joke for you, Ser Isaac's distinctly familiar-looking armor will be available to players themselves…
Go to Source (GamesRadar)
Dragon Age 2 'Ser Isaac of Clarke' Armour Set Comes Free with Dead Space 2Posted on January 21, 2011
The huge heap of Dragon Age 2 in-game items you can acquire before BioWare's RPG even comes out has grown larger still. Publisher EA has announced that you'll receive the Dead Space 2-inspired Ser Isaac of Clarke's Armor if you buy Visceral Games' sci-fi horror.
A single-use code for Ser Isaac of Clarke's Armor will be included with the PC and Xbox 360 editions of Dead Space 2, while the PlayStation 3 version will use some other, yet-unrevealed method.
A similar promotion ran for the original Dragon …
Go to Source (ShackNews)
Dragon Age II PreviewPosted on January 16, 2011
Dragon Age: Origins, for all its virtues, wasn't a pretty game. Its world was grubby and brown, its menus utilitarian and ugly. Good news for the aesthetes out there, then, that I found myself cycling through Dragon Age II's spangly new skill tree for five solid minutes, cooing to myself at the crisp presentation. I'm easily pleased.
The skill trees have evolved since the previous game, letting players shape a character that fits the way they want to play while still staying useful in a scrap. Main character Hawke can be one of three classes – rogue, wizard, warrior – but can split hairs further down the chain.
On a recent playthrough, I got to test out Hawke as a rogue, the class having been reworked since its toothless outing in Origins. Dipping into the skill tree, I noticed my Hawke's ability with dual shortswords was buffed, conforming to a super-nimble, superstabby damage-dealing archetype. If you find an ability you come to love in Dragon Age II, you won't need to skip over it in an inexorable march to the top of the skillpile. Attribute points can be put into powers you've already unlocked, turning their effectiveness up and keeping them relevant throughout the game. The skill tree is set out in clumps, skills that favour a style of play sat next to each other in the same section. I hovered over the 'archer' abilities, looking longingly at the powers a bow-wielding Hawke could use in battle.
I ended up being happy with StabbyHawke. Dragon Age II's backstab move is ludicrously satisfying: starting with Hawke hurling a smoke bomb, he darts forward at warp speed and somehow gets behind his foe, whereupon he injects a few inches of cold steel into their kidneys. The first time he did it, I made an involuntary grab for my own innards. The second time, I started grinning. I began playing this Hawke as he was meant to be played. Hawke and friends are a lot more mobile this time around – indeed, combat as a whole is fresher, faster, and closer to an action game than in Origins.
Immediacy is BioWare's adopted mantra for Dragon Age II. Now dressed up in Mass Effect armour, DA2's dialogue adopts its stablemate's mannerisms: a conversation wheel anchors discussions and small blobs of text provide an inkling of what your fully voiced Hawke will say without spelling it out. Best of all, I was able to use my party's abilities mid-chat to shut up unruly backchatters. Bethany, Hawke's sister, has access to a fireball. Against a stream of Darkspawn, she and Hawke could stand and discuss the ways they were about to be eaten, or – with a conversation option – she could launch a pre-emptive conflagration and crisp half the incoming force.
Already, Dragon Age II feels more connected and vital than its predecessor, and far less stodgy.
Go to Source (PC Gamer)
New Dragon Age 2 character revealedPosted on November 27, 2010
Bioware have unveiled the first images and details on Aveline Vallen, a sword and shield wielding warrior devoted to defending her home city of Kirkwall. Read on for more details and the first screens of the latest addition to the Dragon Age 2 roster.
The daughter of a knight, Aveline was trained in the art of "chivalrous combat", but never took up her father's profession because she was "raised in the shadow of a lost life and will not lose another for the sake of honor". You'll find more details on Aveline on the Dragon Age 2 site. You'll find the first shots of Aveline below.
Go to Source (PC Gamer)
Dragon Age 2 will import 'the world' from Dragon Age: Origins savePosted on October 06, 2010
You can still import an older save file into BioWare's upcoming fantasy RPG, Dragon Age 2, like you could with Mass Effect 2 — but since you don't have a persistent character this time (whoever your Warden was in the first game is replaced by "Hawke" in the sequel), it hasn't been as clear what the save file would change in the new game.
Speaking to NowGamer, lead designer Mike Laidlaw revealed that while you don't get to import your character, you're "importing the world" as it was in your game of Origins. "Who's in charge of Ferelden, what happened with the Dwarves, who's running Orzammar?" Laidlaw said. "All of these things are reflected and accounted for in Dragon Age 2." So if you hate the way you left affairs in Origins, consider a fresh save in Dragon Age 2. Then again, maybe you like fixer-uppers.
Dragon Age 2 will import 'the world' from Dragon Age: Origins save originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Oct 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments
Go to Source (Joystiq.com)
BioWare working on 'unannounced handheld game'Posted on September 13, 2010
LinkedIn profile of QA lead at EA's flagship RPG studio says new portable title in the works; earlier reports point to Dragon Age II.
Earlier this year, Electronic Arts released a release schedule that appeared to reveal a handheld version of Dragon Age II. However, EA reps dismissed the report, saying that the listing was likely for an iPhone/iPad tie-in to the PC, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360 title.
Over the weekend, further evidence surfaced that the Dragon Age II developer is working on a full-fledged portable title. According to the LinkedIn profile of one of the Canadian developer's QA leads, the company is currently hard at work on an "unannounced handheld game."
No further details were given about the title, and EA reps did not respond to requests for comment. However, the LinkedIn profile reveals that it shares at least one of the same development team members as BioWare's first handheld game, Sonic Chronicles: The Dark Brotherhood. Published by Sega in 2008–after EA bought BioWare–the DS game garnered only lukewarm reviews.
Unlike the first Dragon Age, which let players choose from several characters, Dragon Age II casts players as a human warrior named Hawke. His exploits are recounted by a dwarven storyteller named Varick, a fellow with a penchant for exaggeration. The game will see Hawke continue the fight against the Darkspawn, as well as assorted new foes, with a variety of companions.
Read and Post Comments | Get the full article at GameSpot
Dragon Age II ScreensPosted on September 07, 2010
2 new shots posted.
Get the full article at GameSpot
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Burger's work though has more of an Americana feel to it; "Empty Track" and "The Day After," with its Dobro fills both sound like something you'd expect from the stripped-down side of Tom Petty. The reflective "Piano at the Bottom of the Elevator Shaft" finds Burger recalling both Elvis Costello and Steve Earle vocally while also demonstrating that like Costello in particular he's pretty good at meaningful wordplay.
Southside Johnny guests on the mid-tempo rocker "Trying to Get Us All Killed" where he takes a nice harmonica solo; his harp playing on the western-flavored "Don't Paint Your Portrait (The Deadwood Song)" is more cowboy-on-the-trail though than the bluesy riffs of "Trying "
Burger is certainly worthy of being more than a regional star and The Day After may be his entrée into the national market.
Bob Burger - The Day After
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About Us
Welcome to the wonderful world of Katy Sue Designs' manufacturers and designers of imaginative craft and cake decorating products. The Katy Sue product range is equally as popular and useable with cake decorating as general crafts and papercrafts; our award winning silicone moulds are known worldwide for their creative designs, stunning detail and superior quality.
Here's how we got started in our business.
Back in 1993 my Mum (Doreen Thompson) and I (Susan Balfour - me!) began a kitchen table business called Katy Sue Dolls, making miniature porcelain dolls for collectors. The business grew and eventually we had collectors in 28 countries.
After almost 12 years and wanting a new challenge we took a side step and turned our creative talents to the papercraft market.
So in 2004 we set up Katy Sue Designs Ltd as a manufacturer and designer of innovative craft products. In 2006, we created the world famous Flower Soft® brand and launched it into the papercraft market. The popular range regularly appeared on shopping TV channels in the UK, USA and Germany and our products are sold around the world.
In late 2012 we side stepped again and created our own range of food safe silicone moulds for decorating market. This has been so exciting as it has allowed our creative team to return to our roots in sculpting and mould making.
In 2013 we won the Craft and Hobby Association of America's most innovative product for our cupcake topper moulds and since then have gone onto to win many awards voted for by the general public.
Our moulds are currently sold into over 40 countries and with over 20 years of experience in the creative industries and are bursting with imaginative ideas to bring to the world of cakes and crafts.
Thanks to everyone who has helped and supported us along the way!
Other Info
The main design, manufacturing and distribution facility is in South Shields, UK. We also have our own Sales and Distribution centre in Champlain, New York, USA.


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WNC Must Win Three of Four to Host Regional
The stakes are usually high when Western Nevada College and Salt Lake meet on the baseball diamond.
That definitely will be the case on May 4-5 when the Scenic West Athletic Conference rivals conclude the regular season with a four-game series in Salt Lake City.
Salt Lake (29-4) brings a one-game edge over WNC (29-6) into a series that will determine the conference champion and host of the Region XVIII Tournament May 9-12.
The 18th-rated Wildcats (40-11 overall) are seeking their third SWAC title in four years, while fifth-ranked Salt Lake (38-6) pursues its first regular-season title under coach David Nelson.
WNC will need to win three games in Salt Lake to capture its second straight conference championship for coach D.J. Whittemore.
"We can't worry about winning three games until we win two, and we can't worry about winning two until we win one," Whittemore said. "Our focus is the first game Friday."
The clubs have played a different number of conference games because two games of the Salt Lake-CSI series were canceled due to wet weather.
Both teams are surging come into the series: WNC has won seven straight and 11 of its past 12 games, while the Bruins have reeled off five consecutive victories and won 15 of their past 16 games.
Salt Lake claimed two of three games at WNC on March 30-31. The fourth game of series was snowed out and won't be rescheduled. Salt Lake beat WNC 7-5 and 4-1, but the Wildcats rebounded to win the third game behind a complete game one-hitter by Dylan Baker. The 6-foot-3 Baker struck out 10 Bruins and called it the best pitching performance of his career.
During that windy and wet series in Carson City, the teams developed some camaraderie to go along with their mutual respect for one another, filling the idle time during rain and snow delays with a playful dance-off and army games.
"It speaks a lot concerning the two programs," Nelson said. "Both programs respect each other a great deal and play hard without hatred. It is what athletics is all about."
WNC has a .304 team batting average, with nine players hitting above .300 and 11 at .297 or better. Zach Hendrix and Chris Woolley lead the way with .356 averages. Derrick Pitts has belted a team-leading nine homers and 14 doubles, and his 40 RBI are tops as well. Catcher Neil Lawhorn has become more of a power hitter since the club's last meeting and now has five homers on the season.
Braden Anderson makes the Bruins' offense go as the sophomore is hitting a robust .415 in 39 games. Anderson has nine triples, eight doubles and three homers and has scored 51 runs in 130 at-bats. Sophomore Tyson Popoff's batting average climbed to .400 after the series with Eastern Utah and is one of six Bruin regulars hitting above .300.
The multi-dimensional Pitts has also developed into one of the Wildcats' most dependable starting pitchers since Salt Lake left Carson City, compiling a 4-0 record and 1.44 ERA.
The Wildcats lowered their team ERA to 1.88 last week by holding College of Southern Idaho to 12 hits and two earned runs in their four-game series.
WNC's starting staff has modified since the three-game series in Carson City. Pitts and Brandon Jackson have joined Baker and Andrew Woeck in the Wildcats' four-man rotation.
Nelson said the new arms and improvement in the WNC starting rotation aren't causing him added concern.
"WNC's program always produces good pitching, and they continue to get better throughout the season," Nelson said. "They execute well and will be fun to face."
Jackson, a middle reliever at the outset of the season, hasn't allowed an earned run in his four starts since earning his way into the starting rotation on April 7 and now is 6-1 with a 1.48 ERA.
Woeck, who is second to Baker with 77 strikeouts, has a 7-2 mark and 1.48 ERA. Woeck allowed five hits and two earned runs in six innings while being outdueled by A.J. Carmen in a 4-1 loss to Salt Lake on March 30.
Baker is 11-0 with a 0.76 ERA, surrendering 26 hits and five earned runs in 59 1/3 innings. He has fanned a team-best 93 while walking 32.
Meanwhile, the Bruins are led on the mound by Ruddy Acosta (5-1) and Tanner Banks (10-0). The 6-6 Acosta tossed a six-inning no-hitter against College of Southern Idaho on April 21 and has crafted a 1.23 ERA, and Banks had given up just eight earned runs in 53 2/3 innings to establish a .134 ERA.
"Salt Lake has a great pitching staff, and they make it really hard to score," Whittemore said. "Until I'm told otherwise, I'm assuming they are leading the country in the fewest runs allowed per game, and that's what championship clubs do. That puts pressure on our pitching staff, and it will be a great challenge for our hitters."
Salt Lake has lost only once at home this season, but WNC has a better record away from John L. Harvey Field, winning 17 of 20 road games compared to a 15-4 mark at home. Thus, Nelson is downplaying his team's home-field advantage.
"I don't think it's that big of a deal. It will come down to who wants it more," Nelson said.
Whittemore said that playing the underdog role for the final weekend of the season suits him fine.
"I think a challenge is a good thing for this team. At times, this team has felt like they were the favorite," Whittemore said. "We feel good about our team and the way we're playing."
For those who can't attend the series, follow the games at www.ustream.tv/channel/western-nevada-baseball. Game times are at noon and 2 p.m. Friday and 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday.
|For additional information, please contact:
|WNC Information and Marketing Services
2201 W. College Parkway
Carson City, NV 89703
|Phone: 775-445-3234
Fax: 775-445-3198
E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com


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IT'S SO WRECKED, MAN. Sorry, I had to use that joke one more time now that Shane is retired. And since he is no longer putting himself into a position where other people are trying to maim him in a cage, we get to find out how rickety his body has really become:
Carwin's decision had been a few months in the making, precipitated by a knee injury that sidelined him from a headlining bout against fellow Ultimate Fighter 16 coach Roy Nelson last December. The final confirmation came in the form of a letter from Carwin's spine surgeon, who recommended he step down from combat sports' competition entirely.
"Once the knee got better, I tried to go back to training and had problems with my spine, my lower back.," said Carwin. "That [letter] obviously made the decision for me, for us."
With all said and done, Carwin walks away from professional sports with six bulging and an additional three ruptured discs. He's also developed foraminal stenosis and arthritis.
Foraminal stenosis, which narrows the passage that the spinal cord runs through and constricts on the nerve roots, carries symptoms like numbness, weakness, burning sensations, tingling and "pins and needles" in the arms and legs. This and Carwin's arthritis made for some uncomfortable-to-excruciating training sessions at Denver's Grudge Training Center over the last few years, as he prepared for bouts against Gabriel Gonzaga, Frank Mir and Brock Lesnar.
My God this Carwin. Let's hope he stopped soon enough, because that's a lot of spinal damage right there.
(pic by Ken Pishna for MMA Weekly)
Obligatory Shane Carwin destructo-gifs.


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Sunday School Lesson Plans to download
10 Ways to a
Making a Great Youth Facility.
Leading a Middle School Youth Group using my lesson plans
Sunday School Teaching Methods
Keeping Kids Interested in Church
Volunteer Sunday School Teacher Page
Practical Tips To Help Grieving Teens
Spiritual Gifts Teen Bible Lessons Page 6
I'm always looking for a little different angle of approach to your normal Sunday School lessons. Use the youth Bible studies on this page to help your kids realize that it's time for them to make a commitment to Christ and participate fully in "the body of Christ." It would be a mistake to assume that all of the kids in your Sunday School class are Christians just because they were brought up in a Christian home and/or come to church regularly.
Ready to print Sunday School lesson handouts for teens:
The goal of this lesson is to give kids a different perspective on what is means to be a Christian. Instead of the usual "What can God do for me?" approach, this lesson focuses on what it means to be a possession of Christ and indwelt by the Holy Spirit. This lesson may cause some kids to re-examine their commitment to Christ while others might realize for the first time that this facet of commitment to Christ needs to be added to their faith. This is a one page lesson plan with a pre-lesson activity* and with leaders guide. I've left plenty of time to pursue the following suggestion:
At the completion of this lesson a clear statement of the Gospel message is needed with an opportunity to accept it. My suggestion is to use The Four Spiritual Laws, developed by Campus Crusade for Christ. You can down load it from this web link: http://www.everystudent.com/features/gettingconnected.html
*Pre-lesson activity: I show a clip from the original Star Trek series where Captain Kirk gets inhabited by an alien. That seemed to be a weekly occurrence. Sometimes I will wear my Star Trek uniform. The kids get a good laugh but it sparks the conversation about being "possessed" or having one's personality taken over by a spirit. They think about what it really means to have been purchased by God and now they are owned. Here is a link to the episode if for some reason you don't already own it.
This book is quoted in the lesson. Get a copy by clicking here.
Spiritual Gifts or Super Powers:
The goal of this lesson is to give the kids an accurate overview of spiritual gifts and how the Holy Spirit uses them today. This is a two page lesson plan with teachers guide. You should order the Spiritual Gifts Questionnaire to go along with the teaching.
This lesson was born from my disappointment with churches that tend to emphasize the mystical gifts of healing, speaking in tongues, miracles in an effort to better their lives or bring a sense of spiritual excitement to a congregation where none exists. It's a shame that people don't think they have any spiritual gifts because they assume that's reserved for the flashy showmen on stage.
Most kids don't believe that they have any spiritual gifts. Boy, are they shocked when they find out they already do. You can see their brains light up with possibilities of serving God and their church with their special gifts.
It's not too early to give the spiritual questionnaire shown below to the kids.
|This teen Bible lesson on Spiritual Gifts is the most often downloaded Sunday school lesson on this website. Coupled with the Spiritual Gifts Questionnaire you'll get a great picture of the areas of your kids interests and giftedness. This will be a helpful guide in planning areas of growth for your youth ministry and direction of your future youth Bible study.
Copyright 2007 -Coconut Mountain Communications, LLC; All rights reserved.


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Welcome to Peace Love and Landscaping
Professional Landscaping Services based in Burlington, Peace, Love, and Landscaping provides landscaping services for select residential clients within the Burlington, Oakville, and Hamilton areas, as well as the neighboring communities of Waterdown, Dundas, Ancaster, Milton, and Mississauga.
We have been a landscape contractor in Halton and Hamilton Wentworth since 2006. Owner and Landscape Designer Wolfegang Bonham has been in the landscaping industry for over 10 years.
At Peace, Love, and Landscaping we are committed to installing high quality, inspirational, and aesthetically appealing landscapes, using as environmentally friendly practices as possible, while respecting both the client and the staff involved.
We pride ourselves on:
• Innovative and Creative Designs
• Environmentally Friendly Solutions
• Quality Installations
• Reliable Service
As always, we are thankful for your interest in Peace Love and Landscaping.


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AUSTIN (KXAN) — Several thousand people gathered at the State Capitol Saturday to protest Israeli strikes on Gaza.
The latest conflict started nearly a month ago.
The death toll stands at More than 60 Israelis and more than 1,600 Palestinians killed, according to Associated Press reports.
The group rallied on the south steps of the Capitol and marched down Congress Ave. to Austin City Hall.
Austin resident Naila Shamsi says she believes every nation has a right to defend itself, but not kill innocent people.
"It doesn't matter if you're Palestinian or Jewish," Shamsi said. "It matters that you're killing innocent women and children, and we're not doing anything about it."
Sarah Alfadda, a member of the Interfaith Community for Palestinian Rights, said past efforts on the issue in Austin drew several groups to coordinate a rally at the Capitol. Alfadda said, for her, the ultimate goal of the rally is to raise awareness and put pressure on U.S. companies and the Government to stop funding Israel.
"I think it's critical for all of us to join together and really say we have a voice for the people of Gaza — that they are not alone," Alfadda said. "Also, that we have a responsibility to show that our government is complicit in this, and we won't stand for it."


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Online Article Directory!
The Rubber Hose That Can Take Different Forms
You must have seen many kinds of hose here and there in your daily life. It is quite common thing used in different places for different purposes. It can be seen in the washing machine or in the garden where plants are to be watered. A hose is basically a hollow tube which can be of any length and width and it is used in carrying fluid or gas from one place to another. The requirement of the hose changes depending on the nature and temperature of the fluid. rubber hose is the most used hose as it is available in both flexible and stiff form and can be utilized for different purposes.
There are companies that produce rubber and flexible hose and in most cases these are produced using recycled rubber. There are different patterns of rubber hose available in the market. Some of the hose are covered by metal strings to give it better strength and support. Whenever you see a flexible hose it is made of thin or thick rubber as it is less reactant to different weather condition and they are cheaper too. The design that you would choose will depend on the performance required and the application. In case you require carrying hot fluid it should be coated with a layer that is not damaged in high temperature or a rubber that is resistant to heat.
There are companies that manufacture wholesale hose while some are there which sells it in the retail outlet. Flexibility depends on the material used. You can find rubber hose in machines and industrial devices too. But apart from rubber there are many more materials used in the hose but it is always better to use recyclable material in those so that the energy is not wasted.
James Blee - About Author:
For more information on rubber hose, check out the info available online; these will help you learn to find the flexible hose!
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Gemming/Enchanting combined with reforging allows various specs to customize different pieces of gear that may be sub-optimal bringing them up to par. This is especially true with set pieces you're forced to use that may be the exact opposite of preferred stats.
I know it is a hassle, and I know that the is little / no customization when it comes to gems / enchants but.. if we remove everything that is 'inconvenient' what will we be left with really?
I think gems and enchants should have ´2 uses´ or something like that. While leveling, and even early in a new tier it just is annoying to gem or enchant something you know you aren´t going to have very long, and furthermore, it kinda prevents you from using that item right away if it is only a slight upgrade. Do I finish the raid with my old armor with an enchant and gem, or do I use the new item that is 13 ilvls higher.
We should be able to remove gems and enchants one time and reuse them on the upgrade.
I don't think removing gems/enchants would do anything of value - it would just make it harder to find the slackers who don't bother to enchant/gem their gear. If something must be changed, I would love it if I didn't have to spend 150+gold reforging everything every time I get a new item due to hit/exp caps.
Gemming/chanting the new item is np for me; reforging all of my of gear to get back on hit/exp cap is just irritating.
I guess that is more an issue with hit/exp stats, rather than reforging.
I still kinda miss the helm enchants, purely because they added another way to check if someone had bothered to put any effort into their character; once they were made BoA so you didn't have to get the rep on alts I saw no issue with them.
Plus as a JC/Ench I'm slightly biased towards the 'Ignoring the damage it might do to professions' part...
Last edited by Kaiarra; 2013-02-04 at 04:32 AM.
i gem to fill in my missing stats and alternate it to my tastes. theres no "one fit" for it except when you're hitting BiS. where is where everything flatens out anyway.
so yes, not being able to rebalance my stats with gems as well as reforging? i would miss it.
Gemming....ehh i'd prob miss it a bit, but it wouldn't be a particulary negative feeling. Enchanting i'd love to go, or for enchanting to change to make cosmetic diferences or something like that. Even now, as a veteran of wow, enchanting is the one thing i always forget to do. I gem, reforge, transmog if needed. But it is usually an hour or so later that i look at my gear and notice something is missing =/.
Honestly I don't mind the idea but I don't really care if it stays or leaves.
I question whether professions add anything useful or fun to the game at all in their current form. I think it's possible to make them both fun and useful, but they wouldn't be anything like the current dull laundry list of patterns we have today.
As for myself I think the way gems/enchants are now they aren't very interesting and a more of a put in and forget then something actually meaningful. With that said I wouldn't miss them, nor do I really want them gone.
I wouldn't like it if they got rid of gem's and enchants.
Getting my gear all decked out, is what I love about gearing up.
Instead of getting rid of gems and enchants "because it's too overwhelming" why don't they just simplify it.
Make it more straight forward.
Professions create an alternative to leveling, raiding, and pvp.
Professions help the game economics.
Racials on the other hand, shouldn't be removed, but changed.
Just no damage, or stat bonuses, just stuff that involves professions, vanity, etc.
Get rid of hit and expertise.
Bake crit, haste etc into other main stats.
The game should be made were reforging isn't necessary.
Last edited by iadamson; 2013-02-04 at 05:07 AM.
New Class: Dragonsworn
I love being an enchanter, it is my favorite profession.
I however dont like having to enchant gear.
Sounds odd but it makes sense.
1. I feel that Blizzard's current target demographic doesn't understand primary / secondary stats and how they affect gameplay. This is evidenced by several instances of gutting or revamping game mechanics where understanding how the mechanic worked could be used to gain a performance advantage over someone who didn't have that knowledge. Removing gems and enchants would be yet another small step towards minimizing the gap between skilled and unskilled players, and I would certainly not be surprised if it happens.
2. How much streamlining can a game withstand before it ceases to be a game? Is chess still a game if I remove the board and the pieces, and then tell you to just flip a coin to determine the winner? Some streamlining can be a good thing, IF the game is not reliant on depth to keep people interested.
I would miss it sort of, but I think it has hardly been interesting for quite a while. Since it was introduced in TBC there has more or less been a gem you stack for every spec, it is not that thrilling when you pick up a new piece of gear and see that it has gem slots, so basically you have to wait until after the raid for it to be useful but you know exactly what you are going to do with it.
There is also basically one enchant every spec gets. If you cut down to the wire I see very little reason as to why either has an interesting place in this game truth be told. I would rather see them make it interesting than just cutting it though.
Telling chess players to flip a coin to determine the winner is simplification.
Removing an excessively strict dress code and pre-game ritual that adds nothing to the game itself before the match is streamlining.
I tend to view gemming and enchant as unnecessary. You do it once, and then forget about it. If you think ahead, you already have those gems and enchants waiting for the next piece of gear. Call your Argent Gruntling, pull out your gems and enchants, reforge on your yak, and equip your gear. Forget about gems and enchants until the next piece of gear drops. It's already been number crunched for you, less interactive than fishing.
I dont know, with makin the game more and more simple every patch, why not get rid of this.
I dont think i would like it, its good to put some effort to actually prepare your new gear for raids.
I would even like to see upgrading system like in other MMOs. Item +1, +2, +3 etc.
Honestly, if it's the way it is right now...not really. It's not like there are any choices, save for a few scenarios which are few and far between. There is a very definitive way to gem and chant BiS so it's really all a gold sink, reforging is far more intricate and by far the best formula for enhancing your character. That being said, it's not really a big deal to me personally, as I have chanters and JCs, and I'd rather see them expand/improve upon them rather than remove them...which of course they kinda can't at this point in the game.
The way it is now, dropping JC, Ench and reforging from the game would make for better gaming experience, IMO
as others have said, It's not like there's any choice in the matter.
Would love it if they brought back some customization to the game.. Hybrid specs, all the stats they've taken out (def rating/armpen)
Being able to spec a Fury/prot hybrid on my warrior was really fun, same as using a spell power weapon on my enhance shammy.
I've no idea what to write here.


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BIG DIG DAY – Saturday 16th April, 12-4pm
Come and join us in the Capital Growth Big Dig day. There will be activities for children, lots of seed sowing, potting on, planting out and digging. There will be tea and coffee and possibly a cake sale.
If you have seeds or seedlings yourself, please bring them to swap and share, and we welcome donations of plants, unwanted pots, seed trays and gardening equipment.
We hope you will come and find us and become a regular part of the gardening community. Look out for notices in the Park about our community gardening sessions.
For more details, contact Sue on 07961 342247 email: friends www.agnesrileygardens.org.uk


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Jase's limited edition, hand cut, magnetic red WINSTONS are now even easier to find thanks to advanced custom mapping.
You can now quickly scan the world and your local area for these endangered species. There aren't many left folks. Might be worth travelling some distance to get your hands on one, or travel the world to collect the set.
Stamped edition to 100.


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Weymouth 8°c
DORCHESTER'S Aaron Cook will not go to the Olympic Games after the British Olympic Association ratified Lutalo Muhammad's nomination for London 2012 after a review of the selection procedure.
A teenage cyclist who was in collision with a bus in Weymouth has died.
WEYMOUTH travelled back in time as smugglers were apprehended at the harbour, culminating in a public hanging.
A GROUP of talented students from West Dorset got their own "Oscar" at a prestigious film competition.
COMMUNITY projects based throughout Dorset are celebrating after being awarded a share of Lottery grants worth almost £20,000.
Dorset Police are warning football fans to behave during the Euro 2012 championships.
A WARNING about advice on how to deter seagulls is going to reach Lyme Regis through West Dorset District Council's Community Link
SCHOOLCHILDREN in Dorchester marked the Queen's Jubilee celebrations with a blitz on litter.
TWO designer handbags and a Cartier watch have been stolen in a "significant" theft from a house in the Rodwell area of Weymouth.
PATIENTS are invited to join in a 'conversation' about healthcare services in Weymouth and Portland.
POLICE and ambulance crews have been called to Newstead Road in Weymouth where a cyclist has been involved in a collision with a bus.
COUNCILLORS appear to have flushed away any attempts to reopen a toilet block despite public support.
A WREATH has been laid in a West Dorset church in memory of a brave young airman who whose plane was shot down over France 72 years ago.
THE work of writer Sylvia Townsend Warner will be celebrated at an event in Dorchester on Saturday, June 29.
SUPPORTERS of a community leisure centre are celebrating after securing an £82,000 boost.
THE funeral of 96-year-old D-Day veteran Burt Godin was held in in St Mary's Church in Walditch.
TWO new plaques marking historic buildings in Dorchester are set to be installed.
IT is still not known when the cause of the crash that killed a Red Arrows pilot in Bournemouth will be revealed.
AN ENGINEER from Crossways is hoping he can go the distance and prove himself an Iron Man.
A MOTHER'S 'little hero' has been given an award for his brave actions after she collapsed in their Dorchester home.
A MAN attacked a Weymouth taxi driver and was seen brandishing a knife on the Esplanade less than a week later, a court was told.
IT HAS been a testing week for those behind the scenes at the Skandia Sail for Regatta.
THE FAMILY of a disabled seven-year-old girl is fighting to prevent a vital respite service from closing.
A REFURBISHMENT project to provide additional sixth-form facilities at Budmouth College has been approved.
A FEARLESS former Olympic ski jumper helped with final testing of Weymouth's Sea Life Tower by dangling 53 metres in the air.
GET free advice on planning travel for your business during this summer's Olympic and paralympic games.
Armed Forces Day Celebrations
BEACH ASSAULT - SATURDAY 23rd JUNE 2012
The Council hereby gives notice that a section of the Beach between the Pavilion and East Street will be closed to the public from 9.00 am on Friday 22nd June until 3.00 pm…
NICOLA JUSTINE BAKER (née Squibb) NIKKI 1975 -2012 Passed peacefully away in the tender loving care of Joseph Weld Hospice on Thursday 31st May 2012 after a long illness bravely borne with her
husband at her side. The life and world of her husband…
LUCY & RACHAEL Thank you for our lovely Jubilee Street Party 'Mountain Ash & St Thomas Road' You are DIAMOND MUMS First class and so say all of us
WEYMOUTH'S iconic 'pineapples' are set to make a return to the Ridgeway – if someone will pay for the move.
MORE than 20 organisations have joined forces in Dorset to orchestrate the smooth running of the sailing competition and associated events for London 2012.
ON your marks, get set, go!
DORSET Art Weeks 2012 continues and comes to an end this weekend, so if you haven't yet taken the opportunity to explore the county's creative talent, now is the time to do so.
HOT ON the heels of the village's Jubilee celebrations, Cerne Abbas Music Festival comes of age this weekend.
With most, if not all and even more if I'm not mistaken, of the mullti-national sailing teams here for the Sail for Gold regatta and who will also be competing in the Olympic sailing events, there
is little security measures compared to what will…
Can I through the Echo congratulate everyone who was involved in the celebrations at the Nothe Fort on Monday. Everyone I talked to had a fantastic time.
CUH, youngsters today eh? Hoodie-wearing, good for nothings who fester in their pit all day, grunting and texting each other their l8test whatevas, innit m8, blud. Sorted. And, indeed, safe.
I regularly travel on National Express coaches whom for many years collected and returned passengers to the K7 stand opposite the King's Statue.
RESCUE centre workers based in Weymouth walked out early today in the first of a series of 'lightning' strikes against plans to close Portland
Coastguard station.
How disgusted I am at the irresponsible dog owners who have no respect.
AARON Cook's management team believe it will be a "national disgrace" if the European champion is denied a place at this summer's Olympics.
POLICE are warning drivers to take extra care after 50 reports of fallen trees and branches in Dorset since 7pm last night.
DAVE Trotter believes Lady Luck will soon turn Weymouth's way if they continue to maintain their recent levels of performance.
MARTYN Richards has urged his charges to prove they are a side for the big occasion by earning victory over Parley for the first time in three years.
GRUELLING conditions likened to being 'in a washing machine' hit the world's best sailors competing in the Skandia Sail for Gold regatta.
A NUMBER of young people from both Dorset and London will embark on the Small Ships Race, which will include Weymouth's very own TS Pelican.


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The Chinese State Circus returns to Preston next week, with three performances in the big top of the Guild Hall.
The Charter Theatre visit is part of a 53-date tour of the UK with their new Yin Yang production, a fitting name for a show that relies on a lot of balance Yin Yang also features the Shaolin Warrior known only as The One, and brought to the cast by director Phillip Gandey.
Yin Yang is designed to keep the audience on the edge of their seats but also show the more delicate side of Chinese tradition with plate spinning, parasol juggling, an eye catching Lion Dance and the Bicycle Act in which 10 talented artistes manoeuvre on a single bicycle.
The Oriental Swan is a fusion of ballet, strength, balance and creativity in which a ballerina pirouettes on the shoulder of her partner then dances en pointe on his head and shoulders.
Then there's foot juggling with drums, the Chinese poles, a sensational contortionist and the hoop divers with their somersaults, leaps and jumps.
It's all aimed at an audience of all ages.
Catch it all next Friday and Saturday.
Box office: 0844 844 7714 or www.prestonguildhall.com.
The first of Lancashire Sinfonietta's 2013 children's concerts comes to Preston Minster a week on Saturday, with two morning performances.
They are the perfect introduction to live music for babies, toddlers and young children and get off to a 'roaring' start with We're Going on a Bear Hunt.
Based on the popular children's story, families can enjoy music and fun in a professional concert, aimed at children aged under five.
The Sinfonietta also guarantees a unique experience, where the audience gets involved– playing instruments, singing, and making a whole lot of musical noise!
Running every month from February until July, the Sound Playground series is a unique offering to families in the region.
From traditional tales such as Goldilocks and the Three Bears and The Gingerbread Man, to the unmistakeable melodies of inspirational composers in Mini-Mozart and The Magical Firebird, story time favourites and classical music masterpieces are brought to life by one of the most distinctive chamber ensembles in the UK.
Fiona Sinclair, general manager at Lancashire Sinfonietta, said: "Our orchestra is made up of talented musicians who started their musical training in Lancashire and now enjoy successful careers on national and international platforms.
"As an organisation, we're driven by a desire to engage and inspire the next generation of musical talent – and our Sound Playground concerts are the perfect way for babies, young children and their families to start experiencing the joy of professional live music. "Bring your budding detectives and join us – teddy bears welcome too!"
Box office: 01524 594151 or www.lancs-sinf.com/events.
Box of Tricks brings their critically-acclaimed production of My Arms by James Leach to Preston's Continental theatre space next Thursday. Invited by Manchester's Library Theatre to be part of the prestigious re:play Festival 2013 celebrating the best of fringe theatre in Manchester, the production company has been awarded funding from Arts Council England. Told in reverse order, My Arms is a one-hour drama about a couple in crisis after a tragic event that changes their lives. Box Office: 01772 499425.
Lancaster-based Andy Smith presents a double-bill of new solo performance at the university's Nuffield Theatre next week. Using his trademark conversational style, two works ask a few questions about what we are up to, contemplate the world we live in, and think about how we might change it. They are performed together next Thursday for the first time. Andy has been making theatre under the name a smith since 2003. He is also co-director (with Karl James) of the award-winning plays An Oak Tree – which was staged at the university several years ago, England and The Author by Tim Crouch.
He is currently an AHRC scholar undertaking a practice-as-research PhD at Lancaster University, where he also teaches applied theatre practice and performance composition in the Theatre Studies department.
Box office: 01524 594151 or www.liveatlica.org.
A stage adaptation of Sebastian Faulk's Birdsong comes to Blackpool Grand Theatre next week. This classic story of love and courage is set both before and during the Great War.
In pre war France, a young Englishman Stephen Wraysford embarks on a passionate and dangerous affair with the beautiful Isabelle Azaire that turns their world upside down.
Faced with the unprecedented horror of war he clings to the memory of Isabelle as his world explodes around him.
The BBC 1 adaptation was aired two years ago and following on from the hit West End production.
This brand new adaptation marks the first touring production. It is performed by a dynamic ensemble company including Tim Van Eyken (War Horse).
It runs from Tuesday to Saturday and is aimed at ages 12+.
Box Office: 01253 743339 or www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk.


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What's New
As many of you might guess, one of the best parts of being the Executive Director at CAUSE Canada is visiting the field. These visits rarely resemble a vacation and, while I am not sitting at a desk, they usually involve many hours of sitting in a truck bumping over bad roads and sleeping in the company of a few cockroaches (which are not my favourite but I can live with them for a few nights).
With our gala just around the corner, CAUSE Canada's Canadian office is buzzing with excitement and putting the final touches on the evening. This event is our biggest opportunity each year to share face-to-face with our partners, donors, and guests some of the heart of our work...
What if we imagined what we could do together to end extreme poverty…and then we did it.
Join us at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 25th 2017 at the Pinebrook Golf and Country Club for CAUSE Canada's annual fundraising event.
On Friday, November 18, 2016, Azucena, the Head Nurse, and I received a call from the Community Health Facilitator early in the morning informing us that a woman named Estela in El Duraznal had started going into labour in the middle of the night. The Ministry of Health nurses could not go and see her until later in the afternoon, but to wait until the afternoon could mean losing the mother and the baby.
Trisha Flanagan is a jewellery maker, mother of 2, olive eater, movie buff, and first generation Canadian. From an early age Trisha was drawn to expressing herself through the arts. She found herself creating handcrafted objects and relished in their beauty. It was the pursuit of this passion that led her to continue her formal education at Alberta College of Art and Design (ACAD) in Calgary, Alberta.
In a few short days, I will hop on a plane and make the journey from Sierra Leone back home to Canada.
Connor and Leslie were born and raised in Calgary but spent their summers exploring the outdoors. Leslie claims her father has the largest collection of taxidermied trout in the world and their summers were spent camping and fishing in pursuit of expanding his collection.
Candice is a wife, a mother of three, and an entrepreneur. Born in South Africa and immigrating to Canada as a child she grew up in Kelowna, British Columbia. It was here that Candice had the idea of creating hand-made vintage-inspired aprons.
In May of this year I had the privilege to travel to Sierra Leone to both visit and monitor CAUSE Kids' field projects. During my time in the remote northern region of Koinadugu District, where our CAUSE Kids Education Program is located, I was blessed with the opportunity to meet so many remarkable individuals who are making a real difference in this highly marginalized area.


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A friend of mine who was born and raised in communist Lithuania has a trendy tee-shirt with a hammer and sickle on it.
"How can you of all people wear that thing?" I once asked him. But he didn't see a problem with it.
"Soviet Union is place where I grew up."
"But what about the atrocities?" I demanded. "What about all the people who were tortured and exiled? And what about the poor Lithuanian children who could not attend Holy Mass?"
"Those things didn't happen to me," my friend responded. "I was just regular kid."
"But what about the mystery meat? Or the suppression of your native culture? Or the fact that you weren't allowed to leave?"
Just outside the town of Druskininkai in Lithuania, on a pretty plot of fields and forest, is a sculpture park full of old Soviet statues collected after the fall of communism by one Viliumas Malinauskas, a guy who made his fortune in the mushroom canning business. The entrance is lined with a few of the original cattle cars that Stalin used to transport people to exile in Siberia, and when we visit it's as far as my Uncle R, our host for the day, will accompany us.
"Why do you want to see this place?" he asks me. "It makes me sick."
My Uncle R was born in Lithuania but spent most of his life in America and returned to his homeland as an adult. He remembers the war "like it was yesterday," remembers fleeing the approaching front and riding in those cattle cars. He'd have been happy if all the Soviet-era relics had been destroyed, because they represent what invaded his happy childhood and turned the country he remembered with such nostalgia into a totally different place.
But I hadn't lived through that history, had only learned about it from my grandparents' generation and the Lithuanian Saturday school I attended as a child. For me, a park full of communist statues was more a novelty than anything else.
The park's website states that its aim is "To provide an opportunity for Lithuanian people, visitors coming to our country as well as future generations to see the naked Soviet ideology which suppressed and hurt the spirit of our nation for many decades." But walking through, it's not altogether clear whether the place is condemning communism, or gently extolling an era that, some would tell you, wasn't all that bad.
Many of the statues are enormous and displayed individually in manicured enclaves. There is a room full of Soviet literature and art depicting famous comrades. In the restaurant, you can eat anything from escargot to a Soviet-style meal of borscht and mystery meat. You can buy kitchy souvenirs in the gift shop, wander through a room full of devil sculptures, or take a break as your children amuse themselves on the quaint playground.
And among the larger-than-life statues of Soviet bigwigs, there is a mini zoo where boars and gerbils live side by side.
There are people in Lithuania who feel that, on balance, life was better under the Soviets.
"Was not top quality," explains my aunt Ona's husband, Kostas, "But least you always have job."
And if you knew the right people, you could secure a comfortable two bedroom apartment, a decent car, or quality meat and cigarettes from the black market. Now you can buy everything under the sun in Lithuania, but, according to Kostas, despite nascent government assistance programs, there's no guarantee you won't die destitute or be able to feed your family from one minute to the next.
"Lithuanians no help each other," says Kostas. "Plus, everyone leaving to work somewhere else."
Communism's ironic legacy is that instead of creating cultures where citizens band together for the good of the whole, it has raised a generation that feels every man must fend for himself. And of course, it must be a difficult transition to go from a place where life was "not top quality" but provided a certain amount of security, to a free and beautiful land of non-guaranteed plenty.
But Kostas is obviously proud of his country, and during our trip he often asks me, "What you think now of our Lithuania? Is very different country from last time you visit? Better, no?"
I tell him "Yes."
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