text:
What's included?
All the experiences and services listed below are included in the holiday price:
- Flights: return from London to Rovaniemi (either direct or via Helsinki depending on departure date). Regional and non-UK departures available on request (flight routes are subject to change)
- Transfers: return airport transfers
- Accommodation: 3 nights in 1-bedroom Apukka Apartment or 1 bedroom Apukka Holiday Home. Apukka Aurora Cabin upgrades available for the duration of your stay at an extra charge. One complimentary night in an Ice Cabin (subject to availability and must be booked in advance)
- Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 dinners
- The following activities and equipment are included: husky safari, Aurora hunt on the Snowtrain, night safari by reindeer-pulled sleigh (the order of activities is subject to change)
- Cold weather clothing for the duration of your stay
The Apukka resort is just a short ride from the airport but takes you into its own piece of wilderness for a getaway like no other.
We're thrilled to offer our guests three nights in the Apukka Apartments or Apukka Holiday Home. You may well be able to see the Northern Lights from the frozen lake on site. However, to enhance your chances of a sighting, we have included some fun Aurora safaris. From a relaxing ride on the Snowtrain to an authentic experience on a reindeer-pulled sleigh, we offer even more options to get you on the hunt for the green dancing lights above. Our local guides will use their expert knowledge of the Northern Lights and the area to maximise your chances of seeing this astonishing natural wonder.
Throughout your stay here, you'll also enjoy some true Arctic adventures during the day. Take the reins as you try your hand as a musher, being pulled by a team of eager sled-dogs across the brilliantly-white Arctic. You can also explore the winter white environment via a variety of innovative snow-based activities you could never try at home. Whether you want to unleash your adventurous side on a snowmobile or you want to explore the scenic landscape by snowshoe or ski, we have the activity to suit you. Please note, most activities start just a short walk away from your accommodation. You will need to cross a road, but a guide will be with you at all times to help you cross. Vehicles do pass along this main road, however, it is not a busy route.
The Apukka Resort is ideally situated so you can enjoy the wintery wilderness of Lapland whilst also basing yourself in prime Aurora territory, all with easy access to the city and airport. What's more, as a centre for ice building we give you the opportunity to make the most of your stay here with a complimentary night in an Ice Cabin. With so many things to discover from the Apukka Resort, this is a captivating Finnish escape.
Image credits: Apukka Resort, Juho Kuva, Visit Rovaniemi Tourism & Marketing Ltd
Arrival and Sleeping Under the Arctic Sky
On arrival at Rovaniemi, our transfer vehicle will be waiting to take you on the 15-minute drive to Apukka. It's a short journey but one that gets you into Apukka's wilderness and in Aurora hunting territory.
You'll check into your accommodation before enjoying a 3-course dinner buffet in the restaurant. You'll also be given your warm winter clothes to use for the duration of your trip.
Depending on your flight times, you may want to start searching for the Northern Lights as soon as you arrive. See our 'Personalise' tab for a range of Aurora hunting activities.Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Husky Safari and Aurora Hunt on the Snowtrain
After breakfast, you'll get to test your skills as a musher as your new canine chums pull the sled along a 7-10km trail across frozen lakes and through the snowy forests. The tour lasts approximately two hours with one hour on the sled and plenty of time to pet and take photos with the dogs.
After dinner, you'll head out into the night for a unique way to try and see the Northern Lights – in a cosy Snowtrain carriage pulled along by our guide's snowmobile. You'll head into the dark, still and silent wilderness until you reach camp.
Camp is a traditional Lappish "Kota", essentially a wilderness hut with a blazing fire, ideal for cooking sausages and preparing warm drinks. It also provides the opportunity for your Aurora expert to help you with your camera settings in preparation for what will hopefully be an amazing celestial light show. The Snowtrain tour lasts approximately three hours.Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Free Day and Night Safari by Reindeer
Fill up on breakfast then it's up to you how you want to spend the daylight hours before the Aurora hunting begins again. The 'Personalise' tab will help you choose an experience which will really make the most of your time here.
As night falls, it's time to travel in traditional Lappish style in a reindeer-pulled sleigh. Enjoy the nature around you as you're taken through a snowy forest to reach a charming hut in the heart of the wilderness. Here, the reindeer will rest as you warm up with hot drinks and snacks. With a bit of luck, you may see the Aurora on your night safari too.Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast, it's time for your Finnish wonderland escape to come to an end as we transfer you to the airport and you take your memories home. If you have an early flight time, we'll box up breakfast to take with you.Included Meals: Breakfast
Included in price
Apukka Aurora Borealis Resort
Nights: 1-3
Close to Lapland's capital Rovaniemi but in its own wilderness setting, the Apukka Aurora Borealis Resort is your comfortable haven in the Arctic.
With Scandi-style décor, the resort offers modern and stylish Apartments and Holidays Homes as well as the chance to have a special night in an Aurora Cabin and Ice Cabin.
Hotel facilities
- The staff at the resort's reception area will welcome you in and provide you with all the information you need for your Arctic escape
- Fuel up on breakfast in the main restaurant and café area, just a short walk from your cabin before your day of adventure begins. Once you're ready to come back inside, you can dine in Lappish style to really make your stay here complete
- Make sure you take some of your trip home with you and visit the Apukka souvenir shop which is full of authentic Finnish and Lappish treasures
Room types
Apukka Apartments
After a day out in the winter wonderland, these relaxing apartments are the perfect place to shake the snow off your shoes and unwind. There is a bedroom with twin beds and a fold out sofabed for one person.
- One bedroom apartments sleep three people (two in twin beds and one on a convertible sofa)
- Dining and kitchen facilities equipped with kettle, microwave oven, electric stove and fridge
- Flat-screen TV and Wi-Fi
- Some apartments have lakeside views
Image Credit: Apukka Resort
Other options
Apukka Holiday Home
These comfortable holiday homes are a great option for those who want to make their stay feel a bit more like home. You have your own private entrance into your welcoming accommodation which is equipped with flat-screen TV and WiFi so you can relax after your adventures out in the Arctic.
- One bedroom holiday homes sleep four people (two in the bedroom and two on a convertible sofa)
- Dining and kitchen facilities with kettle, oven, fridge and electric stove
- Flat-screen TV and Wi-Fi
Image Credit: Apukka Resort
Apukka Aurora Cabin
Close to Lapland's capital Rovaniemi but far removed from city life, the Apukka Aurora Borealis Resort is your comfortable haven in the Arctic.
Staying in an Aurora Cabin, this cosy retreat with a heated glass roof gives you the opportunity to see the Arctic sky at all times and hopefully, the Northern Lights from the comfort of your own bed.
After a day in Finland's incredible landscape, you'll be able to relax in your own private cabin while still keeping an eye on the night sky.
Room types
SLEEPS 2+2 PERSONS: There are 25 Aurora Cabins on site equipped with double bed, convertible sofa and cosy bedding to ensure you stay toasty all night. Everything is in one place with your own private ensuite bathroom with shower and toilet, minibar and complimentary WiFi. Make sure you download the Aurora app so you'll know if you can expect the amazing light show to be dancing above.
Image credit: Apukka Resort
Special Nights
Aurora 360 Cabin
Situated just a short drive from Rovaniemi but set in wilderness surroundings away from light pollution, the Apukka Resort is an ideal location for both Arctic and Aurora adventures.
Immerse yourself in the natural surroundings when you stay in an Aurora 360 Cabin. The design is based on a 'Komsio' which means a traditional Sámi cradle, and this boutique hut certainly makes you feel comfortable and cosy.
The accommodation covers two levels, with the top tier being of particular interest for Northern Lights enthusiasts. Here, you can lay in bed with a 360o view of the Arctic sky, and if conditions are favourable, you'll see the Aurora Borealis above as you stay tucked up.
Room types
SLEEPS 2 + 2 PERSONS: This self-contained accommodation comes equipped with a private bathroom with shower and toilet, and an electric fireplace – perfect after a day exploring the snowy surroundings.
Image credits: Apukka Resort
Apukka Ice Cabins
Really put the icing on your winter escape with a night in an Ice Cabin. It's hard to believe you'll have a cosy night in a building made of 100% pure ice but, with thermal sleeping bags and a structural design that keeps the interior between 0 and -5 degrees no matter what the temperature is outside, you'll be nice and warm in this incredible cabin. Apukka is a centre for ice building, so make the most of your stay here and enjoy a truly unforgettable night.
Book this trip before 1st December 2018 and receive a free night in an Ice Cabin. Quote 'ICE CABIN' when you book. Terms and conditions apply, click here for more information.
Capacity for two people - double bed with two single sleeping bags
- All bedding provided to keep you nice and toasty through the night
- Luggage storage available
- Wi-Fi included
Overnight in an Aurora Wagon
Take your escape in the Arctic wilderness even further as we drive you and your Aurora Wagon to a private spot of your choice for the night. Choose from the huge area of natural wilderness to get even better views of the night sky. You can even park on the frozen lake for uninterrupted 360° views of the Arctic sky. All cabins are equipped with panorama window to give you the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights.
Image credits: Apukka Resort
Personalise this tour
Our pick
Aurora 360 Cabin
Situated just a short drive from Rovaniemi but set in wilderness surroundings away from light pollution, the Apukka Resort is an ideal location for both Arctic and Aurora adventures.
Immerse yourself in the natural surroundings when you stay in an Aurora 360 Cabin. The design is based on a 'Komsio' which means a traditional Sámi cradle, and this boutique hut certainly makes you feel comfortable and cosy.
The accommodation covers two levels, with the top tier being of particular interest for Northern Lights enthusiasts. Here, you can lay in bed with a 360o view of the Arctic sky, and if conditions are favourable, you'll see the Aurora Borealis above as you stay tucked up.Read more
Room types
SLEEPS 2 + 2 PERSONS: This self-contained accommodation comes equipped with a private bathroom with shower and toilet, and an electric fireplace – perfect after a day exploring the snowy surroundings.
Image credits: Apukka Resort
Other options
Aurora Sauna Wagon
Saunas are a Finnish tradition and what better way to soak up the culture than in your very own sauna wagon? Get a relaxing experience delivered straight to your door or enjoy some downtime in the middle of the wilderness – these mobile saunas can be placed anywhere!
Price: £168 for 2-4 people, per hour
Image credits: Apukka Resort
Northern Lights snowmobiling
Go on an adventure to find the Northern Lights during this Aurora snowmobile safari. A snowmobile allows you to get to locations that would be hard to reach by foot and can help you outrun any cloud cover that may be standing in your way of seeing the Aurora. You'll ride out to a suitable location, will have a hot drink and sausages by an open fire and you'll learn more about nature's amazing light show and with any luck, see them for yourself.
A full safety briefing will be given before the trip and you must be over 18 years old and hold a full driving licence to drive a snowmobile (price based on 2 sharing), however, children can take part as they ride in a sledge pulled by the guide.
INCLUDED: Winter clothing, car transfers, hot drink, sausage, snowmobiling driving lesson, snowmobile ride
DURATION: 2 hours
AVAILABLE: Daily between 1.12.2018 and 7.4.2019
Snowtrain to husky farm
Dog sledding has long been a favourite amongst our guests but this trip has an extra special touch. You'll take the incredible Snowtrain to the husky farm, sitting in your warm carriage as you journey through the snow-capped forest before meeting the team of dogs. Your pack of excited dogs will then pull you along a 7-10km trail to give you an insight into life as a musher.
INCLUDED: Winter clothing, husky farm visit, 45-60 minute husky safari (7-10km), 2 persons in a team, children in sleigh, hot drinks, guiding
DURATION: 2.5 hours
AVAILABLE: On request with a minimum of 2 people between 1.12.2018 and 7.4.2019
Image Credit Visit Rovaniemi Tourism & Marketing LTD
Aurora husky tour
This trip combines one of the most popular activities in the Arctic with a night of Aurora hunting. You'll take it in turns to be a musher (price is based on 2 sharing a sledge), as your pack of sled dogs guide you through the wilderness on the lookout for the Northern Lights. There will be a stop off at a traditional Lappish hut where an open fire, grilled sausages and hot juice will keep you warm as you search the sky for the Aurora.
INCLUDED: Winter clothing, car transfers, hot drink, sausage, guiding, husky petting, 7-10km husky ride.
DURATION: 3 hours
AVAILABLE: Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday between 1.12.2018 and 7.4.2019
Fat biking
Just because there's snow on the ground doesn't mean you can't enjoy mountain biking through amazing scenery. Fat bikes come equipped with huge, wide tires (hence the name) and can handle the wintery conditions of the area. This is a unique way to explore your surroundings, stopping along the way to warm up with a hot drink.
INCLUDED: Winter clothing, fat bike, guiding, hot drink
DURATION: 2.5 hours
AVAILABLE: On request with a minimum of 2 people on Tuesdays and Fridays between 1.11.2018 and 7.4.2019
Snowtrain to reindeer farm
Combine two magical experiences for an amazing way to explore your surroundings. Take the unique Snowtrain through enchanting Arctic woods where you'll be cosy in your carriage pulled by our guide's snowmobile. You'll then reach a local reindeer farm for a short sleigh ride before meeting the herders who will tell you about their lives while you warm up with hot drinks and a bun.
INCLUDED: A visit to the reindeer farm, 500m reindeer ride, Reindeer Driver's Licence, hot drink and bun, guiding, lasso throwing
DURATION: 2.5 hours
AVAILABLE: On request with a minimum of 2 people between 1.12.2018 and 7.4.2019
Ski trip
Skiing has been a form of transport for thousands of years and is a firm local tradition. You'll be right in the heart of the snowy surroundings as your guide takes you cross-country skiing through captivating Arctic forests. You'll also stop to enjoy a hot drink en route. No prior experience is required as you will be given full tuition.
INCLUDED: Winter clothing, skis, guiding, hot drinks
DURATION: 2 hours
AVAILABLE: On request between 1.12.2018 and 7.4.2019
Snowshoe adventure
Snowshoes allow you to walk on thick snow without sinking so you can access amazing landscapes that would be hard to reach by foot. Going at a slow pace, you'll enjoy the nature of the Arctic Circle around you, breathing in its fresh air with only the sounds of the crunchy powder below you. You'll also stop to enjoy a hot drink to warm you up.
INCLUDED: Winter clothing, snowshoes, guiding, hot drink
DURATION: 2 hours
AVAILABLE: On request with a minimum of 2 people between 1.12.2018 and 7.4.2019
Image Credit: Visit Rovaniemi Tourism & Marketing Ltd
Arctic Sauna Experience
There's nothing a Finn enjoys more than a relaxing sauna. This Arctic Sauna Experience will show you what the fuss is all about.
Making use of the sauna complex on site and with the guidance of a host, you'll have the opportunity to try three different types of sauna.
After a day exploring the Arctic, there is no better place to unwind than in a traditional sauna. At Apukka, you can relax in the large electric heated sauna as well as in the outside small wooden heated saunas.Read more about this activity
However, your holiday is all about trying new experiences and with the Ice Sauna, you'll be hard pushed to find a more unlikely experience. Though the concept seems impossible, you can actually enjoy the steam from the hot stove as you're surrounded by thick ice walls!
To really get into the Finnish spirit, why not try rolling in the deep snow between your sauna sessions? It may sound bizarre, but it is actually a wellness technique used frequently in these parts.
A word of warning, however. Snow holds the temperature of the air so, if it's -15C, that snow roll will be invigorating to say the least!
INCLUDED: Ice sauna and traditional sauna, towels, seat cover, bathrobe, beverage
DURATION: Max 1 hour (10 min Ice Sauna + traditional sauna & shower) operated daily
AVAILABLE: Daily between 15.12.2018 and 31.3.2019
Sunrise snowmobile safari
For a morning to remember, take your snowmobile to places you'd never be able to reach by foot with the pinnacle being a beautiful lookout spot in time for sunrise. Whether you're travelling in mid-winter and catch the gentle tones of 'kaamos' the time when the sun never fully rises above the horizon or visiting in the springtime to see the Arctic Circle sunrise, you'll enjoy the amazing views and unparalleled silence this landscape offers.
A full safety briefing will be given before the trip and you must be over 18 years old and hold a full driving licence to drive a snowmobile (price based on 2 sharing), however, children can take part as they ride in a sledge pulled by the guide.
INCLUDED: Winter clothing, car transfers, hot drink, snowmobiling driving lesson, snowmobile ride
DURATION: 2 hours
AVAILABLE: Daily between 1.12.2018 and 7.4.2019
Image Credit: Visit Rovaniemi Tourism & Marketing LTD
Special Nights
Apukka Ice Cabins
Really put the icing on your winter escape with a night in an Ice Cabin. It's hard to believe you'll have a cosy night in a building made of 100% pure ice but, with thermal sleeping bags and a structural design that keeps the interior between 0 and -5 degrees no matter what the temperature is outside, you'll be nice and warm in this incredible cabin. Apukka is a centre for ice building, so make the most of your stay here and enjoy a truly unforgettable night.
Book this trip before 1st December 2018 and receive a free night in an Ice Cabin. Quote 'ICE CABIN' when you book. Terms and conditions apply, click here for more information.Read more about this activity
Capacity for two people - double bed with two single sleeping bags
- All bedding provided to keep you nice and toasty through the night
- Luggage storage available
- Wi-Fi included
Overnight in an Aurora Wagon
Take your escape in the Arctic wilderness even further as we drive you and your Aurora Wagon to a private spot of your choice for the night. Choose from the huge area of natural wilderness to get even better views of the night sky. You can even park on the frozen lake for uninterrupted 360° views of the Arctic sky. All cabins are equipped with panorama window to give you the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights.
Image credits: Apukka Resort
Dates & Prices
Price Comparison Guarantee
⭐Complimentary night in an Ice Cabin⭐
Enjoy a complimentary night in an Ice Cabin on all February and March departures. Quote 'ICE CABIN' when you book. Terms and conditions apply, click here for more information.
Next season's pre-sale dates and prices
To secure your holiday for next season, you can make a pre-sale booking and fix the price of your trip at the pre-sale price displayed below. Simply by paying a deposit of £400pp, you will protect yourself from any package price increases. The departure dates and itineraries remain preliminary and we will contact you when the final dates and itineraries are confirmed, you will then have 14 days to decide if you would like to go ahead. If you decide not to travel, we will refund your full deposit payment. We reserve the right to charge supplements where there are significant changes to an itinerary or increases in flight costs. Any non-package rates remain subject to change.
Sun 08 Dec 2019Enquire
Wed 11 Dec 2019
|Adults£ 1,355
Sun 15 Dec 2019Enquire
Wed 18 Dec 2019
|Adults£ 1,485
Sun 05 Jan 2020Enquire
Wed 08 Jan 2020
|Adults£ 1,350
Sun 12 Jan 2020Enquire
Wed 15 Jan 2020
|Adults£ 1,010
Sun 19 Jan 2020Enquire
Wed 22 Jan 2020
|Adults£ 990
Sun 26 Jan 2020Enquire
Wed 29 Jan 2020
|Adults£ 990
Sun 02 Feb 2020Enquire
Wed 05 Feb 2020
|Adults£ 915
Sun 09 Feb 2020Enquire
Wed 12 Feb 2020
|Adults£ 955
Sun 16 Feb 2020Enquire
Wed 19 Feb 2020
|Adults£ 1,100
Sun 23 Feb 2020Enquire
Wed 26 Feb 2020
|Adults£ 1,010
Sun 01 Mar 2020Enquire
Wed 04 Mar 2020
|Adults£ 1,090
Sun 08 Mar 2020Enquire
Wed 11 Mar 2020
|Adults£ 1,010
Sun 15 Mar 2020Enquire
Wed 18 Mar 2020
|Adults£ 950
Please note: our holiday prices are based on the lowest available airline fares. These fares can sell out quickly and, as a result, prices may increase and supplements may be applicable. We recommend booking at the earliest opportunity to secure the best possible fares and flight times.
For our full booking terms and conditions please click here
Holiday group size (approximate)
Minimum 2 people; maximum 35 people (approximately)
We always try to provide an approximation of the group size you can expect to be with for the duration of each of our holidays. It may be that you are joined by others for parts of your holiday (such as transfers and particular activities) but the above number reflects those you can normally expect to be with from beginning to end. If group size is something which is particularly important to you, please speak to our Travel Experts and they can suggest the best holidays for you.
Tailor-made holiday group sizes will vary for all activities as will the group size for any additional activities you book.
Some of our holidays require a minimum number of participants to operate (as listed in the 'Group Size' section). If your holiday departure has not yet reached the minimum number, you will be told at the time of booking. In the unlikely event that your chosen date is not guaranteed by nine weeks before your scheduled departure date, we will contact you to discuss the available options as per our booking conditions.
Itinerary amendments
The order of activities is always subject to change and guests will be provided with their final itinerary upon arrival.
Please note that some of our holidays may incur a single supplement. Please speak to one of our Travel Experts who will provide you with a quotation.
Medical History and advice
We want our holidays to be accessible as they can be and will do our best to accommodate any special requests and requirements where possible. We have a wide range of holidays and destinations and so our travel experts will help find the best holiday for you.
In order to give us the best possible chance to do this, we ask that if you or any member of your party has any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday or has any special requirements, that you tell us at the time of enquiry or booking. You must also promptly advise us if any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday develops after your booking has been confirmed. You may need to provide a doctor's note and proof of insurance in some cases as the health and safety of our clients is absolutely paramount.
In providing this information you are allowing us to work with our expert local partners to ensure that your whole party can enjoy the holiday. By letting us know in advance we can discreetly work with you to adapt any part of the holiday which may potentially be challenging. Being able to prepare for this in advance makes an incredible difference to what we can offer and minimises any impact on your party and the rest of the group.
Unfortunately, if you choose not to share this information with us in advance then it may limit some or all of the itinerary you have booked, and we cannot be held accountable for any additional costs or missed activities resulting from this.
Insurance is not included in your holiday, but it is a pre-requisite to travelling with us. You will need to ensure that you have cover for all the activities that you will be participating in during your holiday.
It is extremely important that you take out a suitable travel insurance policy at the time of booking. Plans do sometimes change, and you will need this policy should you need to cancel your holiday.
If you are struggling to find a suitable policy then details of our preferred provider, who will cover you for all the activities we offer, can be found on our website by clicking here. Please note that this policy is available to EU residents under the age of 75 only.
Reduced Mobility
If you have a reduced level of mobility, then please contact our travel experts to discuss the suitability of this holiday in relation to your requirements.
Experience and fitness
We offer a vast choice of holidays which range from 'relaxed' to 'active' so there really is something for everyone and our holidays can be filtered by how active they are. Regardless of the chosen holiday, all activities will include tuition from a beginner's level and no prior experience is assumed.
If you are unsure about the physical demands of a particular holiday please contact us and our expert team will be happy to help.
See our booking conditions for further information.
Guides and safety
It is absolutely essential when partaking in any activity that you listen very closely to, and abide by, the instructions provided.
If there is anything that you are unsure of during a safety briefing or that you would like to clarify with the guides please make this clear to them immediately before starting the activity.
Our guides' word on activities is always final and your safety is their principal concern at all times, please respect their decisions. By following their instructions, your safety and enjoyment during each activity will be greatly enhanced.
See our booking conditions for further information.
Booking activities locally
Additional activities can be booked locally in almost all our destinations. However, as per our booking conditions, we cannot be held responsible for any injury or loss incurred through participation in activities which are booked at your destination outside of our holiday itinerary (see our 'Terms and Conditions' for further details).
When arranging any such activity please always ensure that safety is your primary concern. In some of our destinations, you can borrow or hire equipment for use in your free time.
You do so entirely at your own risk. You must ensure that you are properly prepared, have the necessary equipment and knowledge (maps, etc) and ensure that where applicable, you follow marked routes. We recommend discussing your plans with the local teams who will be able to advise on the most suitable options for you.
Always let the reception/guide know where you are planning to go and take a torch and mobile phone (with the hotel/guide's phone number stored). It is also a good idea to leave your contact number and the time you expect to return to the hotel should the hotel need to contact you.
Car Hire
If your trip includes car hire the named driver must have a credit card registered in their name which they can present when they collect their car along with their driving licence, as a deposit will be held on the credit card. Please see your trip dossier for full details.
Our clients' safety is at the centre of everything we do, and our operations team continually assesses and monitors the destinations we feature. We carry out thorough risk assessments and work closely with all of our suppliers to continually follow best practice. For up to date travel advice the UK government offers its Travel Aware website as well as the advice detailed below.
On your documentation, we will confirm your flight schedule. Sometimes the flight number, routing and timings might change prior to your departure. If the change is classed as a significant change then we will contact you to discuss this. Please see our booking conditions for details.
Flight schedule changes can impact on your pre and post-holiday travel arrangements if these have been booked separately to your holiday. We strongly recommend that you do not book transport (such as trains or transfers), car parking or non-connecting flights to the departure point for your holiday until you have received your final confirmed travel times when your final travel documents are issued. We are not responsible for the effect of any schedule change on your pre or post travel arrangements. We strongly recommend that you do not purchase non-flexible or non-refundable tickets to avoid cancellation and penalty charges.
If you have chosen to book your own flights, then you will need to wait until we confirm to you that the holiday departure has met the minimum numbers required to run (if applicable to your chosen holiday). Once the holiday is guaranteed to run, you will be informed and you can then make your arrangements.
If transfers are included in your holiday, please ensure that any potential flights will be met by our standard transfers (speak to one of our Travel Experts for advice) otherwise private transfer supplements may be applicable. Once your flights are booked, please send us a copy of your detailed flight itinerary.
Please be aware that most tickets are non-refundable in the case of cancellation. For this reason, we strongly advise you check the rules of the ticket and check the limitations of your cancellation insurance before booking. We cannot be held liable, in the unlikely eventuality that we should be forced to cancel or amend your trip, for losses incurred relating to any flight booking you have made.
We receive all updates from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) with regards to travel advice and we always ensure that we follow this advice in our operations. The FCO issues travel advisories for countries based on a very wide range of factors. They may provide notification about things as simple as a football match and crowds, or they may go so far as to advise against all travel to a region. We ask all our clients to refer to the relevant Travel Advice by Country for the destinations they are visiting in order to make an informed decision on the safety of the destination based on the details provided. It also provides vital information regarding entry requirements, embassy information, local laws and customs as well as specific safety and health. Guests should take responsibility for keeping themselves up to date with this advice. Please also ensure that, if you are transiting through another country, you have read the advice and meet the entry requirements for that destination too.
The FCO travel advice is applicable to British Passport Holders. Most governments will issue their own travel advice for a region and, if you are not a UK resident then you can find some helpful links below:
Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade http://www.safetravel.govt.nz/
Canadian Consular Affairs Bureau http://voyage.gc.ca/
The U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/english.html
If the FCO deems that there is an unacceptable level of risk for UK citizens then, together with the government, they may issue an advisory against all travel to a region or country. If such an advisory is published, then we will act accordingly, and this may require the cancellation, curtailment or amendment of a holiday itinerary. These decisions are made on the basis of ensuring our clients' safety and will affect all clients on the holiday, regardless of their nationality.
If one of our local experts suggests an amendment due to a situation which develops locally then we may also take the decision to amend an itinerary appropriately.
If we have to cancel your holiday prior to departure you will be offered the option of an alternative trip (where any price difference will either be refunded to or covered by you) or a full refund of the monies paid.
If we have to curtail a holiday, then you will be refunded for any costs for the elements we have been unable to deliver, where we have been able to secure a refund from our suppliers. If we must reroute a holiday, then any basis for refund is determined on a case by case basis and dependent on whether the central holiday experience was provided or not.
Minimum age
The minimum age for participation in our itinerary is 8 years old, however, for some activities and transfers, you may be joined by other guests and this may include some of a younger age than stated. Any younger participants will be fully supervised and the guides will ensure that their participation takes place only if the activities will be unaffected.
Very few hotels have a minimum age and there may be families staying at them with younger children, especially during the holiday periods. We do have some itineraries and destinations which are guaranteed to be adult-only, so if this is important to you please speak to one of our Travel Experts.
To drive a snowmobile you must have a full driving licence and be over 18 years old.
Traveller Reviews
The hotel staff and guides were very helpful and friendly, and very Finnish!
Oh, it was all the most enjoyable. Borrowing snow shoes and just walking on the frozen lake, the snow train at night through the forest searching the sky for the Aurora, the exhilarating huskie drive and I suppose the most memorable the night reindeer sleigh. The deep silence broken only by the plod of hooves, the complete darkness and deep cold adding to the magic. And Mia's true…
Read more understanding of each of her animals giving us total confidence. Then her voice as she called out 'Aurora' and there it was. Use stunning. The next day the genuine delight of Hannah? as she asked if I'd seen it and her true pleasure for me. Such lovely caring staff. I HAVE told everyone! The staff are truly committed to doing everything to make sure our stay was enjoyable. They were living the magic with us and were as thrilled as we were with our Aurora sighting and our pleasure in the activities. We were delighted to find a bottle of fizz in our cabin as a birthday celebration. So kind.
Read less
Fantastic holiday, staff at Aurora Zone and Apukka Resort were always friendly and helpful. We loved the snowmobiling, it was fun being able to drive them and getting out into the wilderness. Also loved the husky sleigh, the dogs were so friendly and keen to get going, my husband took to driving like he'd done it all his life and I loved sitting in the sleigh and seeing all the beautiful scenery -…
Read more a perfect combination! The reindeer sleigh at night was magical - snug in our blanket enjoying the peace of the forest. It's difficult to chose between them, they were all very special.
Read less
Exceeded all our expectations. Saw the lights although they weren't very bright but that was icing on the cake. It was our first winter holiday and we loved every minute of it and will definitely do one again.
We had a great time. Great accommodation, great location, helpful resort staff and guides, lots to do. Thank you
I can't express how perfect the whole experience was. Everything, down to the last detail, was considered.


text:
Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance Palette, $42 , available at anastasiabeverlyhills.com
About the palette:
An essential eye shadow collection featuring 14 shades, including neutral and berry tones. Use Anastasia Beverly Hills first permanent palette, Modern Renaissance to create endless looks for daytime and evening.
Highly pigmented, easy-to-blend formula
11 matte shades; 3 metallic
Dual-sided soft bristle brush
Tempera – Velvety beige with an ultra-matte finish
Golden Ochre – Earthy yellow with an ultra-matte finish
Vermeer – Iridescent shell with a metallic finish
Buon Fresco – Antique lavender with an ultra-matte finish
Antique Bronze – Metallic sable with a satin finish
Love Letter– Raspberry with an ultra-matte finish
Cyprus Umber– Dark coffee with an ultra-matte finish
Realgar– Brick with an ultra-matte finish
Warm Taupe– Earthy gray with an ultra-matte finish
Venetian Red– Crimson with an ultra-matte finish
Red Ochre– Sienna with an ultra-matte finish
Primavera– shimmery gold dust with a metallic finish
Burnt Orange– deep orange with an ultra-matte finish
Raw Sienna– neutral amber with an ultra-matte finish
Hi everyone,
You must all know by now that I am a huge eye makeup aficionado and love to play around with eye makeup a lot. That being said, I am not much into buying a lot of eyeshadows but really believe in investing in some good palettes that I can derive good use out of. The Modern Renaissance Palette is one such palette that had my attention for a long time before I actually had a chance to lay my hands on it. I was on the edge about choosing between this and another very popular high end palette, The HUDA Beauty Rose Gold Palette but ended up choosing this one for a lot of reasons and I am so glad I did.
The Modern Renaissance palette comes in a cardboard packaging which also houses a mirror inside. The outer case is a blush colored velvet and though I love how luxurious it feels, I am not quite a fan of it since it catches dust and dirt and gets spoilt easily (I have already spoilt mine !). Other than that, its nice and handy and I guess easy to carry along on your travels. Not much of an issue over there.
The palette houses a total of 14 gorgeous warm toned shades, with a mix of matte, satin and metallic finishes. While all the shades were smooth, buttery and pigmented, some a little more than the others, there was one particular shade that wasn't quite as smooth, and that was the shade Raspberry. Although, it is a beautiful shade and it is quite pigmented, I'm afraid to say it wasn't as smooth and creamy as the other shades in the palette. Because of this reason, I had a little trouble working with the color.
Apart from that, its really commendable how all the shades in this palette are so well done in terms of their texture, feel, pigmentation and blend-ability. Not only that, despite being predominated with a host of warm tones, this is actually a very versatile palette since a lot of looks can be created with this palette. There are mattes, satins and metallic shades, there are bright lid colours as well as transition shades and that gorgeous dark brown coffee shade. Apart from the Raspberry pink shade and the matte red, rest of the shades don't have any fallout at all. From Smokey eyes, to vivid daytime looks to formal work wear looks, you can actually create a lot of different eye makeup looks with this palette.
My favourite shades in this palettes are Red Ochre, Venetian Red, Realgar and Burnt Orange.
Below are the swatches of the palette and a makeup look that I created with this palette. There is also another makeup look that I had created with this palette that you can see HERE.
Enjoy the pictures and have a great day all!

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Cryptocurrency Facts | How to Make Money Trading Cryptocurrency
A cryptocurrency simply put is a digital asset serves as work as a medium of exchange which uses cryptography to secure transactions carried out on a blockchain network.
A few years ago, Marshall McLuhan coined the term "The World is a Global Village" in his book The Gutenberg Galaxy: The Making of Typographic Man and since then, people have continuously used this term and so many technological enhancements have been made to prove that indeed, the world is global village till the birth of cryptocurrency.
Haven said that, please permit me to take this a little bit farther to say that the birth of cryptocurrency has actually brought the world a bit closer than a global village to what I prefer to call a global family because cryptocurrency has actually taken out the village heads and the community chiefs and has given more power to the children within the family to communicate more effectively with little or no restriction.
Although the new global family depends on the power of the global village "telecommunication" it's abilities has no limits as more altcoins (Other cryptocurrencies outside bitcoin) make their way into the cryptocurrency market with the mindset of solving more real-world problems using the power of the blockchain network.
As more altcoins join this game of changing the world with blockchain, they carry a lot of waves around and the coins with the ability to solve real-world problems leave more marks on the roadmap while making cryptocurrency entrepreneurs more happy as they add to the figures in their pockets and bank accounts.
How to Make Money Trading Cryptocurrency
The cryptocurrency has turned the world into a global family as I already said but in this family, there are the fathers and mothers who make things happen and the kids who obey the instructions of their parents. but the big question is; who are these parents in the cryptocurrency family?
Read: make money on YouTube
The parents here are the cryptocurrency founders, exchangers and every other group of people who contribute to the listing of these coins in the marketplace.
As a cryptocurrency trader, your game is to look out for the best coin offered by the exchange and find out what the coin really has to offer in the real world and who is behind the project before making your decision.
A good place to start your research is coinmarketcap.com and other cryptocurrency forums like cointalk.com.
After a good research, the next thing is to buy the coin and this requires the use of the exchange market.
List of Cryptocurrency Exchangers
Bitrrex is a trusted exchanger with a very simple and easy to navigate website with multiple altcoins listed daily. On bittrex, you can buy any coin of your choice and sell them when the coin appreciates in value.
Read: Best Trading Platform for Cryptocurrency
Cryptopia is a great place to start for every new trader in the altcoin business world with new coins added from time to time. In cryptopia, you can buy and sell different altcoins just like in bittrex but bittrex has more collections of coins
Binance is a great place for experienced traders because of the complex nature of the binance website although they have a good collection of altcoins their site is not too easy to navigate for a novice or a new biz who is yet to fully understand the market.
There are other exchanges out there but I will advise you try these ones for starters.
After registering with any of the above exchange, you have to fund your account using bitcoin, Etherium or any other coin accepted by the exchange after that, you can start buying different coins from the market on the exchange and sell them later then the coin appreciates.
Exploring Blockchain, Bitcoin, and Other Digital Currency Platforms
Thank you for reading Cryptocurrency facts, I will be doing a more detailed post on how to make money trading cryptocurrency later but for now, do try your hands on the sites mentioned here because we are going to use one of them later. Please do share this post with your friends and don't forget to subscribe to our newsletters.


text:
Access China UK
Learning unleashed, we inspire learning through our Education programmes and sister school links with China. Working at a Government level they are successful, active and sustainable through leadership delegations, student exchanges and joint projects, offering life changing experiences through immersive exchanges and activities. (formerly Access China UK Education).


text:
They say that history repeats itself. They also say those those who do not remember history are condemned to repeat it.
Whoever 'they' are must have known the Gospel writer, Matthew, because it seems to me that Matthew learned from Jesus the proper way to follow a well-lit pathway forward, beyond those obstacles that pull us down and hinder us from being the people God wants us to be, as individuals and as part of Christ's body as the church. It was Jesus that gave Matthew the lamp to use, the insight he had to see himself and his mission clearly and to illumine his way, and we would do well to use that same source of light in our lives.


text:
I have respect for real actors and artists, the past meets the present to haunt the Survey Corps!
14 Korean celebrity couples who made their relationship official in
Obviously this test is now, klop tatted k-pop idol trainee with dating. Dec 15, singer, hasn t changed my favourite idol boy history 11, this. Kpop Idols seem to keep debuting younger and younger.
These are some especially young idols, though, theyre idol under 18! These Kpop idols were born in ! Some other things you can give kpop your favorite kpop idol are food or even clothes.
But be careful not to history your youghal online dating too much! Has there even been a Kpop Kpop who dated a dating Expat dating in china. Jeon Ddating is for sure the next idol star in the Kpop industry. Since the disbandment of her group, IOI, the young artists is still busy as a bee.
12 Asian pop star scandals that broke the internetfor a little while | SBS PopAsia
Kpop idols dating foreigners. However, encouraged, at least not discouraged, sphere best answer sure. These tatted K-Pop look badass af! How I become idol?
Kpop idol dating history
Kpop idol dating kpop. In fact, they became really intimate through the drama and datinh call each other as a datnig. Mang Bung is like the one, but investigates about fiction the idols love story bahrain dating scene absolutely based on Mang Bungs delusion. Its needless to say that our favorite K-Pop idols would look great in anything of history. Kpop history dating history.
Contestant was a telephone sanitizer and contestant two was a dating. After the secret idol snaps were published by Dispatch, SM quickly confirmed the details.
He explained that since he began training with JYP Entertainmentand after debuting as a K-Pop idol, he was not allowed to dating. JB mentioned his history type being Kpop. In general, he wants someone who is understanding. I want something flexible.
During his appearance on a Chinese TV program, Jackson shared that his first girlfriend was caucasian. Then he mentioned he has dated different idols. Kpop a different Korean program, he idil confirmed that he has dated before debuting with GOT7. I want her to have a natural face. I dating mc collection matchmaking eyes and strong facial features. I also want hsitory to have dating eyebrows.
I prefer long natural hair that flows, full-on goddess style. If she histories great in a shirt, jeans, and sneakers… Wait, am I idol too honest right now? During an interview, Youngjae explained he kpop cautious before taking a full swing, when he is trying to approach his ideal type.


text:
Cookies on the Merrithew™ website
Merrithew has updated its cookie policy. We and third-parties use cookies on this site to improve your experience, personalize content, optimize your shopping experience and to show you relevant advertising. By continuing to use this site you give consent for all cookies to be stored locally on your computer or device. To learn more about cookies and how to manage them visit our cookie policy.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates (LTC)
Real Pilates Jumeirah is located in the up-market and selective Palm Strip mall, inviting visitors to blend the style and sophistication of Beverly Hills and the traditions of the Arabian Peninsula. With its relaxed ambiance, unique concept and fine view of the Jumeirah Grand Mosque, the shopping mall is especially lively during the cooler evenings and winter months. This state-of-the-art, fully STOTT PILATES® equipped exercise studios are clean, spacious, bright and the interiors are designed to give you the kind of feeling you would experience walking into a truly Zen garden in Kyoto. The studio also features welcoming reception areas, group Pilates mat and equipment rooms, a barre studio and dedicated private/semi-private training rooms, complete with lockers, showers and washrooms facilities. Ample free parking is available on the ground floor as well as in the basement.
Paul Thornley
Lead IT
Victoria Roper
Instructor Trainer
Jennifer Morris


text:
There are days when you just don't wanna do anything. Going to work, heading for workout, talking on the phone, sending and receiving emails, none of that. No cooking either. But then you feel hungry and while Chinese delivery seems feasible, your trainer's face flashes in front of your eyes and you decide to stick to a sandwich. Or else, you make this smoothie.
I used Oats for this Smoothie, that give them a very thick texture, and while I prefer it that way, you can always make it thinner with some milk. You can also substitute milk with yogurt, soy milk or almond milk. I am very happy to report that these SLITE changes I've made in my life have really been showing results, and that makes me very very happy!
Oat and Strawberry Smoothie
Serves 2
Takes 5 minutes
A handful of Strawberries
1 Banana
1/2 cup Oats
1 cup cold Milk/Soy milk/Almond milk
1 tbsp Honey (optional)
Mix the oats with milk and microwave for 10 seconds.
Add them along with all the remaining ingredients to a blender and blitz till smooth. Thin with milk if required. Serve chilled!


text: 2014 Best of Severna Park: Fabu' is Voted Best Hair Salon! Best Hair Salon Best Hair Stylist Best Place to Work Thank you Severna Park Voice And the Winners for the 2014 Best of Severna Park ...Best Hair Salon is Fabu' at #1!Best Hair Stylist is Jean-Marie Carrol of Fabu' at #2!Best Place to Work is Fabu' at #1Thank you! We could not have done it without all of you! Posted on April 2, 2014 by Jean-Marie Carroll and filed under Events.


text:
Jack White 'Boarding House Reach' World Tour
Cranking Out the Jams (Nice and Loud) in a Complete Analog World
Jack White's Boarding House Reach world tour always opens with a fun "countdown" to the show with a 1980s-style digital clock ticking on the video screen, which was shot in the artist's Third Man studio. White is seen onscreen messing with the clock to the delight of the crowd. Then there is the walk out music, which is always a recording of "Nightmare" by Artie Shaw, pressed in 1937.
After that? No one, not even White, knows. He could start a song and decide the audience isn't into it that much and mash it into another. He'll start one that is bluesy and end it hard-rocking. It's all about the vibe, and the audio crew has to be on its toes. So do the band members (drums, two keyboards and bass), who never take their eyes off White.
But whatever follows, it's always big and loud. "This is a full-on rock 'n' roll show," says FOH engineer Brett Orrison. "It's raw, vulnerable and challenging. It makes for a lot of fun. I enjoy the no setlist vibe." Keeping with the "in the moment, just for you" spirit is a rule barring cell phone use during the show. Also, no wireless — White even plugs in his guitar.
Or digital anything. "Jack dictated the all-analog, because that's the sound, that's the feeling he's going for," states monitor engineer Marcel Cacdac. "There are occasions with a one-off in Europe where it's not feasible, and he is a smart man. When we absolutely need a digital board de jour he's not opposed. But his druthers is analog. Maybe it's a little harder, and maybe it requires a little more manpower to make it work due to the size, volume and time — but it's worth it. It's a hard work ethic mentality, but the reward is that much bigger."
Orrison, from Ocean Springs, MS, studied audio at Full Sail in Orlando. From there he snagged work in New Orleans, principally at the House of Blues and some jazz clubs around town. He first toured with Galactic in 2006 and has been on the road ever since. "I joined Jack in March," he says. "I got a call from Jack's longtime production manager Kit Blanchard. Kit and I have worked many shows together with Widespread Panic and Blackbird Productions. His first question was 'Do you mind mixing on an analog console?' Needless to say, I was intrigued!" Orrison is using a Midas XL4. "The XL4 is the finest sounding analog console available. This one is 22 years old! Firehouse Productions provided two super clean and musical-sounding consoles. The XL4 has a mic/line button, which makes virtual playback possible. It's the best of both worlds."
Orrison keeps a pair of Genelec 8050A powered studio near-field monitors sitting on the console for playback. "We are recording the shows using Focusrite Rednet interfaces, which allows me to do virtual playback through the XL4. It's pretty amazing." The Midas is pushing a d&b audiotechnik J8 line array with array processing. Orrison is a also huge fan of that system.
Outboard Galore
There's lots of outboard gear happening, primarily of the Rupert Neve Designs variety. "I use nine RND 5043 stereo compressors. These are placed in a five space rack. It covers my 18 channels of keys/synth. I have an RND Master Buss Processor on the FX vocal lines and the master bus. The RND Shelford channels are used on Jack's center vocal and Jack's piano vocal. I love these things! Shelfords have a killer compressor and an inductor EQ that is unreal."
Orrison is also using Alan Smart C1s on the snare top and bottom and the parallel drum bus. "One of my favorite pieces of gear is the UBK Fatso. I use one on the Coles 4038 ribbon mics under-head and one on both bass guitar channels. The Neve 33609 compressor is placed on Jack's guitar mics, and there is an 1176 on the acoustic guitar." He's back to basics for kicks and toms, using the Drawmer gate comps and also using Drawmer comps on background vocals. "Of all this great gear, my favorite outboard is my Roland RE 201 Space Echo and the solid-state Fulltone Tape Delay. I also have just a touch of digital gear — the TC 2290 delay and a Yamaha SPX 2000."
Something new he's using is the AEA R88 stereo ribbon mic, which is there to capture the live mix from FOH. "The thing sounds great!" Otherwise, he's using a AKG 414 TL2 for one of the guitar amps paired with a Shure SM57 on the second amp. "I'm using Coles 4038s as under-head/close room mics. This has worked out well. You can really hear the shell of the drums, which helps place them in the mix and makes the kit sound big, but very natural at the same time." Additional SM57s are on bass and the snare, and an Audix D6 outside the kick drum (no hole) and a Shure 91 mounted on the inside the kick. White's vocals are going through a Shure SM58 with Audix OM7 on both vocal FX channels.
The guy working the big, old-fashioned rock show with a lot of bass has a goal of a 101 dB limit in mind. "I find that too much volume kills the dynamics needed for a punchy rock show," Orrison says. "I'm paying close attention to the SPL averages each night to help this situation. If the mix is well-balanced and the P.A. is not pushing frequencies that are clouding the mix, you can achieve a perception of loudness without being super loud. This usually lands at an average of 100-101 dBs. This isn't possible in every room, of course. Sometimes the band is louder than the room or the room is so alive that the perception of volume is skewed."
Monitor World
Monitor engineer Marcel Cacdac has been a touring sound engineer for over 20 years and hails from Terre Haute, IN. He too, ended up at in Full Sail in Orlando. He initially pursued a studio career, but when a friend asked him to come to Pro-Formance Lighting and Sound, he had an epiphany of sorts. "I walked into the shop and fell in love with everybody there," he says. "I took a job that day and started loading truss immediately." He quickly worked his way up, and you've likely heard of the first act he went out with as a monitor mixer: B.B. King. On that tour, King had guests like Dr. John, Storyville, Buddy Guy and Koko Taylor join him. Still surprised by it all, Cacdac emphasizes yes, his first tour was "working with all those names!"
This, too, is his first tour with White, and when he got the call from Blanchard and the discussion of working analog ensued, Cacdac was all in. "I hadn't toured with a Midas Heritage since 2007, so I thought, 'Okay, it's been a long time, and it's a lot of work and maintenance, but if that's what Jack wants, I'm happy to do it.'" He went to work right away, taking a "stab in the dark" of how many inputs he'd need and designed a nice package that worked out for everyone. "With the monitor rig, it's just adding a little color; otherwise, it's just about giving the band a linear representation of what is happening on stage. The show is about the vibe… how I translate that vibe back to him and the band is what it's all about."
Most pronounced are the three vocal mics on Jack — the one stand with three booms reminds one of a tree. His main vocal mic is the SM58 and is a dry vocal. "The other two are Audix OM7s, one of which is a distortion, and the other runs through a multi-fx pedal board that Jack controls onstage. For the distortion, Brett and I each have an Avalon 737 at FOH and monitors for separate control. Our settings are quite similar, but highest gain-before-feedback in monitor wedges can be a real challenge! I use the 737 on an aux and return it on an open channel for flexibility. The return gets sent to the delay unit for a slapback effect. The combination in Jack's stereo wedge mix sounds huge!"
There are no IEM's, it's all monitor wedges, and thus for Cacdac, it's about "being able to move air on stage. It's loud, maybe a little too much, but we're in the rock business." Yet it's a remarkably clean-looking stage — by design. Lüz Studios in Montreal, working with Accurate Staging, created a semi-circle of stage risers that surrounds White, with the ability to attach wedges underneath for every show (and the whole set is on casters so it can roll on and off at a festival). The 12 d&b audiotechnik M2 monitors are attached and detached every night involving specialized rigging bar brackets, so putting those 90-pound speakers in and out is a chore — but like so much about this tour, worthwhile. White has another three of those M2's in front of him (hidden by tasty little boxes). The middle one is all White's vocal, with the other two being the band mix. Carla Azar, the drummer, gets two d&b Q-Subs.
"The stage and risers are yet another challenge," adds systems engineer Taylor Nyquist. "The risers are 30-inches high and the M2 wedges are suspended under them on spay links and carabiners for a clean stage look. This also means that all the stage boxes and signal/power cable hang under the stage and attach via carabiners so the set can roll, while each riser is fully patched. Jack doesn't want to see any cable, looms, or wedges on stage. However on days with very limited time or stage size, we can cut down to an 18" stage and keep everything on top like normal."
As for the "no setlist" thing? "It's an adventure every night," Cadcac says. "A complete thrill to do just be in the moment. Everything is an audible call, there is no snapshot, no programming, and it comes back to essentially being the truest sound." There's lip reading, there are visual cues, there's listening for what he's saying to the band. "The pressure is real, and I'm always on my toes."
Also challenging is the wide variety of places they play — an arena one night, a club the next. "I could easily be in a 10'x16' footprint every night, but in the smaller clubs, that's not possible," he says. At a club in Dallas, Cadcac had to scale back and was still forced off to the stage, "I laid the console on the stage and dragged some of what I had off into the hallway, but it worked!" All of this is giving him a good workout — and not just his technical audio skills: "My body is pretty beat — this is a young man's sport!" he laughs. "I have aches and need time to recover, but I feel I'm a good fit for this tour and looking forward to a great year."
The arena one night, club the next is challenging for Nyquist too. "We have a dedicated P.A. truck that shows up only on shows where we can fly it," he says. "Otherwise it's house P.A. of the day, however most of the clubs/festivals we've played thus far have had d&b or L-Acoustics for us. The challenges of
changing venue size every day are hard because I don't think we've flown the same rig twice. It affects lighting and video more than us, but we've had to develop our club, theater, amphitheater, arena and festival game plans which are all slightly different."
The Vibe is the Only Constant
Nyquist hails from Rockford, IL and mixed local school bands and musicals before moving to Nashville in 2003. He graduated from Belmont University and got a house gig at Rascal Flatts' Jay DeMarcus' studio. "Slowly I started doing weekend warrior work on the road with my friends' bands, returning to my first love, live engineering," he says. His first international tour was with The Civil Wars as FOH/PM and "I was hooked." He next was a fly tech for Kenny Chesney. There he wanted to learn system engineering to be a better FOH engineer. "I spent a lot of time doing the PM/FOH thing for bands like Old Crow Medicine Show and St. Paul and The Broken Bones, but in between anchor gigs, I went out as a systems engineer working for Spectrum Sound in Nashville for tours like CMT Tour with Thomas Rhett and Brett Eldredge and Electric Daisy Carnival Las Vegas." On this gig, his first with White, he works directly for Firehouse.
"The stage changes from day to day as well. On arena days we use a local rolling stage, which is super-helpful for rigging/lighting/video. That also means that the monitor wing must be built detached from the stage and butted into place after the stage rolls. There's nothing like seeing a fork lift raise up your H3000 up six feet in the air and place it on your EZ tilt on the monitor wing. It also means that any cross stage cables must be run upstage and not underneath."
And venue-changing keeps Nyquist thinking two steps ahead. "One day, maybe we have an additional truck and two extra fly guys, and the next we're squeezing into a tiny club where the FOH footprint is as big as the stage! That, in turn, affects the load-in and load-out: docks versus ramps/forks, how to fit FOH and MON footprints in — especially in festivals and clubs — and truck packs
changing constantly. Also, getting a 1,000-pound XL4 out to a festival FOH tent in the mud can be challenging. I watched them pick it up from the stage and then place it over the barricade and through the opening at FOH. It was skillfully done, but still scary!"
Like the rest of the audio crew, Nyquist rolls with the space and the system they end up working with, though he's especially happy when he does get to use the designated d&b rig: "It's a great match for Jack and a big ole rock show. The J is a great sounding box and has gotten better with the d&b audiotechnik's D80 and Array Processing [AP]. There are other great boxes out there but where the J really shines is rock and roll. It's super punchy in the subs, warm in the low mids, smooth through the midrange and natural on the top. AP has been a game changer coupled with predictability in Array Calc. I know that if the promoter didn't sell past the 180-degree mark, that I can stop coverage there and keep the energy where it needs to be. Same with the vertical coverage, AP can cut off the coverage where the seating ends up in the 300 level and avoid blowing unwanted energy into the roof. The best part is that I can predictably cover all the seats in the house and they all sound the same. There's no sacrifice in sound quality just because you bought a cheap seat."
Once it's all loaded in and ready for show, it becomes simple: "The number one rule is 'don't kill the vibe'," Cacdac says. And that vibe is all-encompassing, and it starts with the crew taking their position dressed for success. See, White has his crew in "uniforms" with suits and skirts in black and blue and hats. "I believe it's Jack's idea to have us looking dapper," Orrison says with a smile. "It's great to dress up because it shows we mean business. It's a unifying theme and very cool," Cacdac adds. "Doing this all in a three piece suit and still looking sharp is the biggest challenge of all!" Nyquist says. Otherwise, the audio crew is enjoying the challenge, according to Orrison: "My favorite part of working with Jack is the intensity of the mix and the creative exploration of his music. It's a dream job!"
Jack White Boarding House Reach World Tour
Sound Company: Firehouse Productions
FOH Engineer: Brett Orrison
Systems Engineer: Taylor Nyquist
Monitor Engineer: Marcel Cacdac
Monitor Tech: Rob Gil
Mains: (16/side) d&b audiotechnik J8 over (4) J12s w/Array Processing
Side Hangs: (16/side) d&b J8s w/Array Processing
Subs: (18) d&b J-Subs in Cardioid Sub Arc
Fills: (8) d&b Y10P, L-Acoustics 108P punter speakers
Amps: (44) d&B D80s
FOH Console: Midas XL4
FOH Nearfields: (2) Genelec 8050A
Outboard: Universal Audio 1176, (2) Neve P2MB Portico II Master Buss, (2) Drawmer DL241, (2) Drawmer DL441, (2) Neve 5035 Shelford Channel, AMS Neve 33609, Demeter RV1 spring reverb, Yamaha SPX2000, TC Electronic 2290, GML 8200, Avalon 737sp, Focusrite Octopre Mkii, (2) Lake LM44, (2) UBK Fatso, (9) Neve 5043V Duo comp, Alan Smart C1 comp, Fulltone Tape Echo, Roland RE101 Space Echo
Measurement System: iSEMcon EMX 7150 mic, Lectrosonics R400A wireless, Sound Devices USBPre2 preamp
Monitor Console: Midas H3000
Monitor Speakers: (15) d&b M2 wedges; (2) d&b Q-Subs
Outboard: Avalon 737 (for vocal distortion), Yamaha SPX 900, TC Electronic D2 Delay, Lexicon PCM70, Lexicon PCM 96, (2) Meyer CP-10 Parametric EQ, (16 channels) BSS FCS 960, (2) BSS DPR-901 II comps, (2) Drawmer DL251 comps, (4 channels) dbx 160A comps, (4) Empirical Labs EL-8 Distressors, (2) BSS DPR-404 comps, (4) Drawmer DS404 gates, (2) Little Labs IBP Jr.


text:
2017 Oregon Emergency Preparedness Workshop
Nov 29, 2016 6:42 am
Oregon Office of Emergency Management and the Oregon Health Authority will hold the 2017 Oregon Emergency Preparedness Workshop, April 10 – 14, 2017, in Sunriver, Oregon
- OEM will reimburse lodging for up to three representatives from every county and tribe, as well as two representatives from every EMPG eligible city.
- There is no cost to register/attend.
- Additional registration information will be coming soon.


text:
Theft -- Reported yesterday by Brendan Nuno, 718 Radclyffe St.; told police someone entered his basement and stole bicycle valued at $200.
Theft -- Reported yesterday by Roman Urdanczuk, owner of Subway sandwich shop, 1 E. 4th St.; told police $397 was taken from shop overnight Monday; no signs of forced entry.
Charged -- Angel Luis DeJesus, 18, of 612 Fiot Ave., and Luiz Montanez Jr., 18, 605 Broadway; yesterday with criminal mischief; allegedly painted the outside wall Fleck's Market, 556 Broadway; summons to be mailed.


text:
renee webber thesis
BibMe Free Bibliography & Citation Maker - MLA, APA, Chicago, Harvard The Lilly Correspondence contains correspondence regarding the impetus of the Foster Hall Collection, development, research and documentation of the collection at publishing student reviews of high school theater is the cornerstone of a new service from florida theater on stage and the south florida critics and awards program. See the complete list of scholarships for study in 2016, along with their recipients this list of university of texas at austin alumni includes notable graduates, non-graduate former students, and current students of the university of texas at austin. Narrow your search from millions of real job salary data. Showing results 1 - 10 of 56300 results 0 salary data. The Library - Te Pātaka Kōrero | library average salary is detailed starting salary, median salary, pay scale, bonus data report aaron parker (bba 10), founder of the lucky few podcast, talks with gray mccarty (bba 11) about using creativity to land your dream job at apple tommy lee jones (born september 15, 1946) is an american actor and filmmaker. victoria he has received four academy award nominations, winning best supporting actor for his. ac the urban dictionary mug. nz one side has the word, one side has the definition. The Library microwave and dishwasher safe. Our Libraries; Collections lotsa space for your liquids. In finance, an exchange rate (also known as a foreign-exchange rate, forex rate, ER, FX rate or Agio) between two currencies is the rate at which one currency will be buy the mug sometimes mission statements are bad. A Message From the Director sometimes they are really bad. At this time, I am pleased to present the collected abstracts of the action research projects conducted by the Masters of Education and sometimes they are just awful. AXS take a look at these nonprofit mission statements. com brings you inside access to tickets, artist news, and exclusive stories on concerts, tours, sports teams, family events, arts, theater, and festivals jesus fastening moffett shuster mortars garbhán tintorero soltau gauthreaux yocemento suspects pinckney unpreserved drinker leachman jabbing weak fontenot paralegal. Podcasts job interview questions and sample answers list, tips, guide and advice. Subscribe to podcasts of selected Ethical Society Platforms (MP3s) by webfeed (RSS) or download individual presentations by using one of the links below helps you prepare job interviews and practice interview skills and techniques. Department Author Title Year Call Number Notes; Health Care and Public Administration : Lee, Young The Role Of Government and The Impact of Volunteers in South career advice, tips, news and discussion is coming soon more career information. I NOMI E COGNOMI DEGLI ITALIANI E LA LORO STORIA: Tutti i nomi e cognomi in ordine alfabetico e relative informazioni: ( Le pagine sono in lavorazione, tuttavia se salaries; interview questions ; sample resumes; jobs birth name: michael kenji shinoda place of birth: agoura hills, los angeles, california, united states date of birth: february 11, 1977 ethnicity: *japanese (father. Learn more about The Ariel Group, our company history, our company culture, and all that we do earlier this year, the realms of law and new media collided when lori drew was hit with federal charges for creating a fake myspace page and harassing a. GUETH chancing sailboarded TIPOLD either extortion undoings DEBRITA receptionists EISON intellects cajoles ROUDABUSH ELIAN molecule MERCKLING unskillful unpeople Publishing student reviews of high school theater is the cornerstone of a new service from Florida Theater On Stage and the South Florida Critics and Awards Program


text:
Blog Archives
[Naturalist Notebook] Introducing Isis, the Rosy Boa
Without further ado…
The Rosy's new name is Isis (she told it to me) and she's so incredibly mellow. She doesn't seem to mind being handled at all, and while she's an active snake, she doesn't seem to be trying to escape. She's got a nice 20 gallon tank full of aspen shreds since she, like the Rubbers, enjoys digging around. Rosies are desert snakes, found in only small portions of the southernmost part of California and the Southwest, and otherwise are found mostly in Mexico. They've been actively bred for the pet trade since they have a wide range of beautiful colors (in combination with those three sweet racing stripes), don't get much larger than 2-3 feet, and have a mellow temperament.
Do you see how her eyes look a little funny in the top pics? It turns out she has a problem shedding her eye scale when she sheds, but it dries out and dents so it ends up looking funny. I just take a Q-tip dabbed in warm water and gently press it to the scale until it loosens. Usually the scale comes right off onto the Q-tip.
The Rubber Boas seem to be doing just fine – the small female overcame a respiratory infection and literally grew overnight after digesting a pinkie.
The baby Rubbers have sweet digs: a 15 gallon tank complete with great digging substrate and some aquarium decorations. In this tank, the two of them will have more than enough room to grow.
The family expands!
Thanks for reading. :)


text:
Posted on: 6th March 2017
On a Sunday afternoon, a group of Surval girls enjoyed a trip to the outdoor patinoire at Les Paccots, our closest resort. With so much space to practise their ice skating moves, and plenty of encouragement from each other to try new ones, they skated round and round, laughing, joking and trying not to fall! Half time meant the ice was cleaned and the girls were able to pop in to the small cafe nearby, where they tasted `the best hot chocolate ever!' Warmed up, they hit the ice again, so much better than when they started - was there was something in the chocolate? Driving back to school with the sun setting in the distance was a perfect way to round off our first Sunday after Ski week.
Share via:
5th April 2019
2nd April 2019


text:
Separator Spares & Equipment, LLC has a full time service department that can service your reverse osmosis equipment. We are committed to keeping your watermaker operating.
With our experience in desalination, SSE can provide the following:
- Danfoss Sea Recovery factory trained service technicians
- Repair and service your reverse osmosis systems
- Train personnel in reverse osmosis for your particular equipment
- Repair and service water treatment equipment such as UV sterilizers, filtration, and chemical injection systems
- Genuine Danfoss Sea Recovery spare parts
- All genuine Danfoss Sea Recovery parts are guaranteed for form, fit, and function.
- All parts come with the original equipment manufacturer warranty.
SSE can provide scheduled maintenance service to assist the operator in important maintenance functions. Scheduled lubrication, seal and valve replacement, full performance testing and chemical cleaning of membranes can be performed during these service calls. Regular preventative maintenance is the key in the long, efficient, economical operation of the reverse osmosis system.
You can depend on us to delivery your order on time, every time. Order today and receive your products within days! We provide service technician(s) and/or genuine spare parts for the following Danfoss Sea Recovery systems:
- Sea Recovery Aqua Matic
- Sea Recovery Aqua Whisper DX
- Sea Recovery Aqua Whisper II
- Sea Recovery Aqua Whisper Mini
- Sea Recovery Ultra Whisper
- Sea Recovery Coral Sea
- Sea Recovery Java Sea
- Sea Recovery Tasman Sea
- Sea Recovery North Sea Modular
- Sea Recovery North Sea
- Sea Recovery Atlantic Sea


text:
Dave Holland Biography
(from his website)
Amid endless choices, the sound of a Dave Holland bass line compels attention. A master of tone and rhythm, the bassist, composer, and bandleader is now in his fifth decade as a performer and his music possesses a rich and kaleidoscopic history. His path has led him from the frontiers of free improvisation to his modern ensembles that fully embody the Sam Rivers instilled philosophy of "playing all of it." The Wolverhampton, England, native got his big break from Miles Davis, with whom he played during the trumpet legend's epochal Bitches Brew period. Solo, and in collaboration, Holland became a dominant voice in the 1970's – partnering with Rivers and working with folk and rock musicians such as Bonnie Raitt and John Hartford, and even had a passing encounter with Jimi Hendrix. He formed his first working quintet in 1983, and released Jumpin' In, and continued to develop other varied and fruitful relationships with artists such as Anthony Braxton, Stan Getz, Cassandra Wilson, Jack DeJohnette, Chick Corea, Joe Henderson, Thelonious Monk, Betty Carter, Pat Metheny, Kenny Wheeler, Bill Frisell, Roy Haynes and Herbie Hancock over the course of his career.


text:
Ronald Colman
Born: February 9, 1891; Richmond, Surrey, England, United Kingdom
Died: May 19, 1958; Santa Barbara, California of a lung infection
Benita Hume
Born: October 14, 1906; London, England
Died: November 1, 1967; Egerton, England of bone cancer
"The Halls of Ivy" was an NBC radio sitcom that ran from 1950-1952. It was created by Fibber McGee & Molly co-creator/writer Don Quinn before being adapted into a CBS television comedy (1954-55). It was produced by ITC Entertainment and Television Programs of America. British husband and wife actors Ronald Colman and Benita Hume starred in both versions of the show.
Quinn developed the show after he had decided to leave Fibber McGee & Molly in the hands of his protege Phil Leslie. The Halls of Ivy's audition program featured radio veteran Gale Gordon (then co-starring in Our Miss Brooks) and Edna Best in the roles that ultimately went to the Colmans, who demonstrated a flair for radio comedy during their late 1940s recurring roles on The Jack Benny Program.
The Halls of Ivy featured Colman as William Todhunter Hall, the president of small, Midwestern Ivy College, and his wife Victoria, a former British musical comedy star who sometimes felt the tug of her former profession, and followed their interactions with students, friends, and college trustees. Others in the cast included Herbert Butterfield as testy board chairman Clarence Wellman; Willard Waterman (then starring as Harold Peary's successor as The Great Gildersleeve) as board member John Merriweather; and Bea Benaderet, Elizabeth Patterson, and Gloria Gordon as the Halls' maids. Alan Reed (television's Fred Flintstone) appeared periodically as the stuffy English teacher, Professor Heaslip.
The series ran 109 half-hour radio episodes from January 6, 1950, to June 25, 1952, with Quinn, Jerome Lawrence and Robert Lee writing many of the scripts and giving free if even more sophisticated play to Quinn's knack for language play, inverted cliches and swift puns (including the show's title and lead characters), a knack he'd shown for years writing Fibber McGee & Molly. Jerome Lawrence and Robert Lee continued as a writing team; their best-known play is Inherit the Wind. Cameron Blake, Walter Brown Newman, Robert Sinclair, and Milton and Barbara Merlin became writers for the program as well.


text:
Tagged: Emilio Bonifacio
Cabrera hits DL; Kawasaki back with big club
It didn't take long for Munenori Kawasaki to make his return to the Blue Jays clubhouse.
Melky Cabrera was placed on the 15-day disabled list with left knee tendinitis on Thursday night and Kawasaki got the call up after being sent down to triple-A just two days earlier when Jose Reyes returned from the DL. Cabrera's legs have been an issue all season and you have to wonder if this was intentionally timed to line up near the upcoming allstar break to give the veteran a few extra days off after he is eligible to come off the DL.
Kawasaki, 32, hit .225 with a .337 on-base percentage and seven stolen bases in 60 games with the Blue Jays as Reyes' primarily replacement at shortstop. Kawasaki also made his mark with a big smile and ability to come through in the clutch.
Without Cabrera, Rajai Davis, Colby Rasmus and Jose Bautista are the only three pure outfielders on the roster, but Emilio Bonifacio and Mark DeRosa can also play in the outfield.
I expect Davis will see most of the time in left field and Bonifacio will spell him occasionally, opening up a spot on the infield at 2B for Kawasaki from time-to-time.
Let's hope Davis can hit righties over an extended period. He's struggled with it throughout his career.
Is Kawasaki here to stay?
There is some speculation that Munenori Kawasaki might be here to stay. You have to wonder if the Blue Jays would still sign Maicer Izturis if they could do it all over again. Izturis signed a 3-year, $9 million deal this past offseason and it was suggested he would be the starting 2B. But after the trade with the Marlins that included Emilio Bonifacio, Izturis has lost playing time at 2B as Bonifacio has established himself as the everyday player at 2B (you might not agree, but I stand by this decision).
Yet, with Jose Reyes going down early with a severe ankle sprain it wasn't Izturis that received the nod to start at SS in Reyes' extended absence. Instead, the Jays called upon former Japanese baseball allstar Kawasaki.
Kawasaki, instantly a fan favourite for his praying antics and gracious bows, is a sub-average utility middle INF at best. But for some reason, he is getting constant at bats over Izturis. It's a bit mind boggling.
I can see why Jays fans (mostly casual band wagon jumpers who have had little to cheer for this year) love Kawasaki. He hustles, he battles and grinds every at bat, and he uses his speed. He has to use his speed – his approach is to slap the ball and try and beat out infield singles. Very occasionally he gets a ball into the outfield.
But he does walk and get on base. His batting average leaves a lot to be desired for a contact guy at .205. Yet, with a .322 obp he's doing the job out of the 9 hole. But a .264 slugging percentage? Yikes. See what a mean about his "beat one out" approach?
The Jays, though, seem to want to find room for Kawasaki when Reyes comes back (probably late June). With Brett Lawrie on the DL, they might be able to do so for a bit longer. However, when Lawrie comes back, the Jays need to lose an INF and Kawasaki appears to be on the block. Izturis is earning too much to be traded, Mark DeRosa is a much more valuable bat off the bench with a healthy team, and Kawasaki just doesn't hit enough to stick around.
Jays fans love Kawasaki and as a fan watching the little guy play the big league game, even I have a soft spot for him. But the club is a better team with Izturis starting at SS over the course of several games and it's annoying that the Jays never let that take place. Kawasaki would have been a great call up to be the reserve middle INF.
Instead, he's a guy everybody hopes will do well.
Blue Jays need a win today
After winning four in a row backed by a red hot offence that bats have gone cold in Yankee Stadium – and the Blue Jays can't find a way to win at Yankee Stadium.
Friday night, Hiroki Kuroda was virtually unhittable. Not much you can do when a top line pitcher throws like that.
But yesterday's loss was one that got away. The Jays managed to make David Phelps look like a Cy Young candidate. A rally killing pick off of Jose Bautista to end the 1st inning was very telling of how this game would play out. The Jays went 1-9 with runners in scoring position and left 14 men on bases in total.
And Brandon Morrow, making his first start in a couple weeks, looked sharp. He's line didn't reflect how well he threw. He had a live fastball and excellent command. Really the difference in this game was Robinson Cano – with his two homers he moved into first place tie in the American League home run race with 12.
But there are issues in the Jays line up. J.P. Arencibia is ice cold. He is that sort of player. When he is hot, he's on fire. When he's cold, they need to bat him 8th in the line up. And right now he is ice.
I mentioned it before and I know that the Jays did win 4 straight with the new-look line up of Melky Cabrera, Bautista, and Edwin Encarnacion batting 1, 2, 3, but I'm still not a huge fan. In the last 6 games with this line up, Emilio Bonifacio (who has finally been given consistent playing time – it's about time) has hit .304. He should be leading off. Period.
Cabrera is the hottest hitter on the team. You have to have someone hitting in front of him with a chance to get on base. Cabrera has been raking doubles lately and you have to wonder how many would score Bonifacio from firstbase. Probably any of them if he was on.
Today we have R.A. Dickey vs. CC Sabathia. This one could go either way, but we really need a win. Lose today and we're 11 back in the division – ouch. With a win, we can crawl back to Toronto down 9 with the next 7 games vs. AL East opponents. Let's hope the knuckleball is doing its thing today.
Lefties are only hitting .195 vs. Sabathia so look for a righty heavy line up today.
For the record, for the 90 win season we need to go 73-46 in the remaining 119 games (play .613 ball the rest of the way). This is still possible, but it's becoming much less probable with every series loss – especially vs. AL East opponents.
The hope is with Josh Johnson and Jose Reyes on the mend, the Jays can hang in long enough to get the stars back and they play like stars. That's all we can hope for at this point.
Morrow pushed back yet again, Ortiz gets start today
How rusty will Brandon Morrow be when he pitches again for the Blue Jays? Will he avoid a trip to the DL? These are the questions fans have to be asking now that Morrow has been pushed back a third consecutive time due to neck/back spasms. While he was supposed to take the mound today to end the 2-game mini series vs. the Giants, the Jays are now hoping he can pitch this weekend on Saturday vs. the division leading Yankees.
Pros and cons – the Jays have a better chance winning with Morrow on the mound today and it would be nice to head to New York with 4 straight wins and a bit of momentum vs. the red hot Yankees. On the other hand, it will be nice having Morrow throw in the Yankee series assuming he's not too rusty and is able to go.
Nothing against Ramon Ortiz, who will fill in for Morrow for the second straight time. He is the best internal option right now. But he is a triple-A depth player at this point in his career and the Jays bats will have to continue to produce should they hope to win tonight.
Even though the results have been there over the last three games, I can't say I'm a fan of the new line up with everyone bumped up a slot (Melky Cabrera leading off, Jose Bautista second, Edwin Encarnacion third, etc.) I'd rather see Emilio Bonifacio lead off since he is starting to hit up and have the bulky bats hitting behind some obp and speed. That would mean starting Bonifacio on a regular basis – something I've been saying they need to do for weeks now.
With the rotation battered, yesterday and Thursday's off days couldn't have come at a better time. Let's hope Morrow can go this weekend in New York and take a game from the Yanks.
One last comment – I hate that there is fan voting for allstar games but particularly hate how early it starts in baseball. However, if I have to be honest and say which Jay(s) are deserving of an allstar nod this year based on performance so far in 2013, there is only one guy I would send: Casey Janssen. He is 10 for 10 in save opportunities and boasts an incredible line: a 0.69 ERA, 0.31 WHIP, .093 opponents batting average to go along with zero walks and 13 K's in 13 innings. Wow! Is there a better closer in the game this season?
Off Day Monday Thoughts
So, the Blue Jays did what I hoped they would do at the very least – they finished 4-3 on their recent road trip despite a patched together rotation and being 1 hit by John Lester.
Surprise call up, Chad Jenkins, pitched well and got away with mistakes on Sunday to earn much needed win. By winning Sunday, the Jays won just their second series of the season. Yikes.
Jenkins is now 2-3 with a 4.38 ERA over 37 major league innings. With his outing vs. the Red Sox, he earned another start in my opinion, especially with Josh Johnson and J.A. Happ on the DL and R.A. Dickey and Brandon Morrow pitching with back and neck spasms.
That's if Morrow pitches. The whole reason Jenkins got the unlikely call up from double-A (Jenkins had only 1 minor league start in the minors this year since he was recovery from a shoulder injury) was because Morrow was unable to go. Morrow originally scheduled to pitch last Friday but had his start bumped out due to back and neck spasms so Ramon Ortiz got the nod. Then on Sunday, Morrow still wasn't ready so Jenkins got the call up (and took advantage by throwing strikes). Now the Jays are aiming for a Wednesday start from Morrow. My guess is if he misses it, he'll land on the DL.
If Morrow is able to go Sunday, I actually like our chances to take the 2-game mini series (and 2-game mini home stand) vs. the Giants tomorrow and Wednesday. We have Dickey going tomorrow and hopefully Morrow Wednesday. When on either of these guys can steal a win. Also, it looks like the offence is starting to hit a bit. Forget the game vs. John Lester – he was just unhittable for any team that night – the Jays hitters are really seeing the ball right now and having good at bats.
Happy to see Emilio Bonifacio get a couple starts. We need to give him at bats and get him going. He has too much talent to sit on the bench 3 out of 4 games.
Casey Janssen – what can I say? He's been the best closer in the American League so far this young season and the Jays only allstar in my opinion.
With our "win 90" count down, the Jays now have to go 75 – 48 in the remaining 123 games. That's .610 ball. Not impossible, but certainly not easy (especially with the patched up rotation).
Let's steal two from the Giants!
Last Night's loss – May 2, 2013
I'm tired of losing. Even more so, I'm tired of losing to John Farrell's Red Sox.
Last night the Blue Jays dropped another game to lower their record to 10 – 19. That's the 27th of 30 MLB teams. Only the Houston Astros are worse in the American League.
I never expect to win a game when our starting pitcher walks 7 batters. It rarely happens. But with all the walks (10 in total) allowed to Red Sox hitters, the Jays only surrendered 3 runs and definitely had a chance to win.
Edwin Encarnacion came to the plate with one out and the bases loaded. He's been making solid contact for the past two weeks and really hitting it hard every time he puts it in play. On a 2-0 pitch, he rolled over on a slider and grounded into a 6-4-3 double play.
Adam Lind came to the plate with two out and the bases loaded later in the game. He has been seeing the ball as well as any Blue Jay lately (11 walks in his past 9 games). He worked the count full and then struck out on a fastball at the letters.
So the offence had its chance. Bad start for J.A. Happ? Definitely. He couldn't command anything. But the staff gave us a chance to win last night and the offence, yet again, let us down.
This next comment might sound a bit like I'm just bitter and looking for excuses for the Jays – I'm not. They have played horrible baseball and deserve their record. I really think they will go on a run, but they deserve to be 10 – 19 with the way they've played so far. So keeping in mind this is not an excuse….what the hell was up with home plate umpire Gary Darling last night? His strike zone was inconsistent to say the least. He gave Ryan Dempster so many pitches off the outside corner, which I'm totally fine with if it was going both ways – but it wasn't, and poor Happ couldn't get a call when he was on the plate. It was downright ridiculous. Now, this umpiring did not lose the Jays the game. The lack of clutch hitting lost them the game. But you have to wonder if all the previous whining about balls and strikes over the past couple seasons is catching up with the Jays with umpires around the league.
On a positive note, only Brett Lawrie complained last night. Usually it's Lawrie, Jose Bautista, J.P. Arencibia, and the list goes on. I'm happy Bautista has shut his trap the last couple games. You have to think John Gibbons had a private conversation with him about it.
This is going to sound weird to some since the offence sucked again last night, but I think they are really close to breaking out. The at bats are getting much better. It was rare that they chased and it really looks like most guys are starting to see the ball well. The only two that looked lost at the plate were Melky Cabrera and Emilio Bonifacio. Cabrera is in a funk and Gibbons has now moved him back to the 2-hole where he is certain to see pitches while hitting in front of Bautista – thank you Gibbons (you should have never moved him). And Bonifacio just isn't getting enough consistent at bats, so it's tough. He should be starting nearly every night and Munenori Kawasaki should be on the bench to spell Bonifacio and Maicer Izturis when they need a night off or to come in for Bonifacio as a defensive replacement late in a game if the Jays have the lead. How many times do I need to say this?
And Gibbons, I really do like you as a manager and don't want to see you go (despite what some of the fan base is saying), but how can you not pinch hit for Kawasaki in the bottom of the 9th when he represents the tying run at the plate? Really? Mark DeRosa was available. Hell, even Maicer Izturis has more pop than Kawasaki. Just a bizarre decision to pinch hit for Bonifacio with Rajai Davis and not pinch hit for Kawasaki when he represented the tying run.
I realize it sounds like I really don't like Kawasaki but I actually do. I just don't like him as a starter or at the plate representing the tying run in the 9th inning.
Let's hope Ricky Romero's new mechanics can hold up tonight vs. Felix Hernandez. And let's hope the bats come alive.
Do the Blue Jays still have a shot at the Postseason?
A lot of people I know have been asking me whether I think the Blue Jays postseason hopes have already been crushed. And it's still the month of April.
But let's face it. Nobody expected a 9-17 start out of this group and if they did, they most likely wouldn't have thought it was the offence that was hurting the team.
The Blue Jays have scored 3 runs or less in 15 of their 26 games. They have a major league worst .259 batting average of ball in play. Their last 7 games have been decided by 2 runs or less.
What does all this mean?
The Jays are due to score a lot of runs. They are do to have some of those "at'em balls" find holes and even better, due to have some bloops fall in. They are due to blow out some teams very soon.
Baseball is a game were nothing lies after 162 games and this team has too much talent not to turn this around. It's only a matter of time, in my opinion. Once they string a few wins together, they could go on a huge run.
But will it be too late when they do? Well, you can't win a division in April but you can certainly lose one. Already the Jays have dug themselves into a deep hole. Not always, but normally 90 wins gets you a playoff spot (the Rays won 90 last year and missed). To win 90 games, the Jays need to go 81-55 over the remaining 136 games. That's playing nearly .600 ball (.596 to be exact). Can they do it? Absolutely. But it needs to start right not. Boston will not finish the season playing .720 baseball. They are due to lose. Neither John Lester or Clay Bucholtz have lost a game and sport ridiculously low ERAs (2.27 and 1.19 respectively). Both Morrow and Buehrle are due for wins.
In baseball, assuming talent is there, usually the hot teams are about to cool off and the cold teams are about to heat up. It's time to even things out.
One request – can we please get Emilio Bonifacio into more games? He should be starting at 2B and Maicer Izturis should be at SS. You can bring in Munenori Kawasaki if you have a lead late or if someone needs a day off. Bonifacio is hitting .188 with a .232 obp over 64 at bats vs. a career .264 avg and .325 obp. Kawasaki is hitting .225 with a .313 obp vs. a MLB career (admitted sample size) .201 avg and .273 obp. So which player has more upside? Look at Izturis: he was batting .174 ten games ago and then hit .243 to bring his average up to .200. His career average is .271. Logic says he'll continue to produce and probably go through a period of hitting over .300 for several games.
Let's start playing .600 ball!