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- Posted by Roberta Cucuzza on October 8, 2020
Overleaf's Remote Hackathon
It's been a year since our blog post on how we started doing remote hackathons. So many things have changed globally in the meantime, but it seems that our remote-first working practices have been our best resource during this unprecedented year.
During this time, we have done other remote hackathons; the last one, which we did just a few weeks ago, was particularly interesting for the variety of projects that came out. Here we want to share a few highlights.
Before we dive into the projects, let me re-cap on how we organise ourselves during these remote events, which may be useful if you are also thinking of moving your hackathons online.
The hackathon usually starts with a few ideas on a dedicated #hackathon channel on Slack. Once we have a date and (possibly) a theme, we plan:
- A short session to pitch our ideas, followed by dot voting on a Miro board.
- A full hackathon day which stretches globally across time zones where we are based.
- A (very popular) 2-hour demo session for the whole company to learn about the results.
This time we tried out Discord to run our virtual rooms; we had a virtual "kitchen" for general chit chat and about 5 other video/text channels for project discussions. It was nice to set these outside of our regular work apps as it helped us keep our focus.
Some of us also shared music on Groovechat, a really fun Spotify plugin developed by a member of our team; it enables you to create a private room to play music and chat live - give it a try!
The Projects
- Git Bridge Hacking (Simon)
- Improve template search results (Jessica, Eric, Roberta)
- Spell-Check in frontend (Jakob)
- Institutional SSO authentication via EduPerson (Christopher)
- SFTP Server (Shane)
- Detach PDF window (Paulo & Miguel)
- Frequently linked-files (Chrystal, Tim)
- Real User Metrics (Ali)
- Frontend & Yoga (Roberta)
Git Bridge Hacking (Simon)The Git Bridge presently keeps its current repositories on disk on a single VM instance and archives them to S3. This is not as scalable as we would like, and also has the problem that if something goes wrong on-disk we lose the commit history.
I wanted to see if we could improve scalability by making the process stateless and keeping its data in a database backend, and also whether we could compute history in a reproducible way from the Overleaf project-history service.
I had previously started a hobby-project that extends go-git to store its data in MongoDB instead of the filesystem, so decided to extend this to integrate with Overleaf. The advantage of go-git is that it is highly extensible, so can be connected to other backends easily.
The main part of this project was to write a transformer that converts entries in the History service into git commits in a reproducible way (i.e. it will generate the same Git hash every time.) Entries in history are stored in OT, so it was a matter of converting these to git diffs instead. The history service has a Swagger API and I was able to integrate this with the go-git server and then use it to transform the updates.
The outcome was a lightweight server that stored its content in MongoDB and had a commit history that was in-sync with the Overleaf project.
There were a lot of shortcuts required to get this done in time - error handling was very minimal and author names were left as a placeholder. The end result was read-only - you couldn't push local changes. There would be a lot of extra work to get this production-ready, but it identified a good approach we could take if we were to commit resources to getting this done in future.
Improve template search results (Jessica, Eric, Roberta)The goal of this project was to improve search results in the template gallery search of the Overleaf website so that users can find a suitable template for their project more easily.
As a first step, we experimented using a different search provider.
Our current search provider is AddSearch. It scans the gallery pages and builds a search database out of the contents of these pages. This is simple and works quite well. However, in order to get finer control on what makes a search result relevant, we need the search database to contain more structured data. AddSearch provides functionality to achieve that through special markup added to the pages. We could have added that markup to get better control on the results.
However, we already use Algolia, a different search provider, for our documentation section. Instead of scanning the gallery pages, it provides us with an API for directly sending structured data. This fits our needs a bit better and allows us to consolidate our search providers.
We ended up reimplementing the search using Algolia and experimenting with the new ways it allowed us to tweak the search. The results were promising, but this new search needs some more work before we make it available. This work is ongoing and we hope to release it soon.
Spell-Check in frontend (Jakob)The spell-check feature in Overleaf currently processes the contents of each document server-side. The frontend editor is sending new words to the spelling service hosted in our infrastructure and receives back a list of misspellings and suggestions for those.
Using server-side processing allows the frontend code to remain fairly simple, at the cost of added latency for checks and a higher bandwidth bill for us. Unfortunately there is no simple interface for the spell checker of the modern browser, let alone a unified API across browser vendors.
As part of the hackathon I looked at a possible alternative for spell checking in the frontend. Processing the user content in the frontend would eliminate both downsides of the existing implementation.
The Hunspell checker is operating with separate dictionaries and suggestion files which are lazy loaded based on the users language preference.
At the end of the day I had a working prototype for Overleaf v2 and a selection of languages to pick from. The complexity of interfacing Hunspell was reasonable, I think. This is excluding the build pipeline for Hunspell.
Using the backend service we were able to generate suggestions for every misspelled word. The generation of suggestions using Hunspell is too slow and needs further investigation. We could generate suggestions as the user opens the browser context menu of a misspelled word.
Overall it was a fun project! I worked with technology I am not familiar with and touched areas of the codebase I do not look at as part of my day-to-day work.
Institutional SSO authentication via EduPerson (Christopher)Last year Overleaf added support for institutional SSO, using the open source passport-saml library. This has been enthusiastically adopted by Universities, many of which are accustomed to using the eduPersonTargetedID attribute from the eduPerson schema as a privacy-respecting unique key for identifying the account of the authenticated user. However, we were aware that there was an issue using this attribute with passport-saml. I was keen to fix this, as I am a big advocate of institutional SSO due to my prior experience working for a collegiate University.
The main problem was figuring out the correct way to fix the problem. The passport-saml project correctly insists that changes to the library need to be compliant with the SAML 2.0 standard, and should be supported by tests. eduPersonTargetedID is not defined within the SAML standard, but as part of the eduPerson schema. It embeds a fragment of the SAML standard into the value of an attribute. However, the SAML standard does not assign any special meaning to a fragment of SAML appearing in an attribute.
A careful reading of the SAML standard revealed that any well-formed XML is a valid value for a SAML attribute. The passport-saml library processes scalar valued attributes, but ignores more complex attributes. It seems to me that a more compliant passport-saml implementation would return an object for complex attributes. It would be the responsibility of the calling application to assign any special meaning to the object. This could be implemented with a one line change, which I submitted to the project as a Pull Request, with a test using eduPersonTargetedID as an example. This was completed by the end of the Hackathon. The following morning I created a branch of Overleaf utilising my modification to passport-saml, and verified that it could be used with eduPersonTargetedID, testing against the UKAMF test IdP. My PR has subsequently been merged into passport-saml.
I was also reminded that eduPersonTargetedID is deprecated in the latest eduPerson standard, as it is superseded by the new SAML V2.0 Subject Identifier Attributes Profile Version 1.0. An interesting future project would be to add Subject Identifier Attribute support to passport-saml.
SFTP Server (Shane)Shane prototyped an SFTP server, to allow users to access their project files directly rather than going through the Overleaf website. This project turned out to be more tricky than we expected, but we learned a lot along the way.
Detach PDF window (Paulo & Miguel)Miguel and Paulo have prototyped what seems to be a very common request from Overleaf users: the ability to detach the PDF preview window. This allows the user to work more efficiently with a multi-monitor setup, by having the editor on one screen with the preview on the other one.
There are workarounds to achieve this currently, but a) those are not officially supported/endorsed; and b) they sacrifice some of the most important efficiency features of Overleaf (namely, the ability to compile via keyboard shortcuts from the editor and SyncTeX—the ability to go to the corresponding PDF location from code and vice-versa).
Implementing a built-in detach PDF preview feature allows the user to take advantage of his hardware without sacrificing Overleaf features.
We haven't released this functionality on the product yet as it needs further work, but at least we have proved that it can be done!
Frequently linked-files (Chrystal, Tim)Overleaf users often link to the same external files on a regular basis. We prototyped changing the 'Add files from another project' dialogue to have a small 'Recently linked' files section for easy access to those files that users reach for to include in their projects time and time again.
It went well, pre-selecting the files correctly for the form by the end of the day. It was a productive time working on a day-to-day useful feature.
This was a useful proof of concept and it received positive feedback from the wider business when we demoed it. However it will require further validation work and development before we could release it to our users.
Real User Metrics (Ali)Currently we don't have a good way of monitoring the "average" end-user's experience when using Overleaf. "Real User Metrics" (RUM) is a technique for capturing performance data from the browser so that we can keep an eye on how Overleaf is performing.
I researched which metrics would be useful for us to measure, and then developed some infrastructure for capturing these metrics using PerformanceObserver.
Going in, I knew that the specifications for capturing RUM are a bit in-flux, so it was useful to learn that PerformanceObserver looks like the best technique going forward. It was also useful to research which metrics are relevant to Overleaf, for example the First Contentful Paint metric, which is the amount of time for the editor loading screen to be shown.
Frontend & Yoga (Roberta)As a Product Manager I have started learning about front-end development to understand my team better. During the hackathon I dusted off an old book on designing websites and used it as a starting point to create a basic page in Atom. I then paired up with one of our team leads to get a bit of guidance and I was introduced to CodePen - a beginner-friendly tool that allows you to preview your HTML, CSS and Javascript as you go.
I found this tool really useful because I could tweak things quickly. You can change the view to switch from Full Page to Editor or Debug. Sharing was also very easy and I was able to do my demo right from there and share a link afterwards.
Caption: CodePen allows you to view, edit and preview your code on one screen.
As for the content of the website, I filmed and hosted a "Desk Yoga" video routine for my colleagues to celebrate receiving my Yoga teacher diploma. 2 birds, 1 stone!
We hope that this has provided you with some inspiration for your next hackathon. Feel free to get in touch with us if you want any tips on working remotely, we can certainly help!


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Case Study: Masks and Casks
When a distillery was launching a new line of spirits, they collaborated with a large chain of liquor stores to promote their new products. The stores gave all employees PrevaGuard™ Face Masks imprinted with the distiller's new product logo to wear while working.
The distillery liked that they could get coordinating protective masks at two different price points because the store employees worked in different environments. They opted for the 2-Ply style for their back of house staff, who interacted with fewer people, and the customer-facing employees were provided with the 3-ply design.
Source: Koozie Group

subset: commoncrawl


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Sweet Disorder Vintage
Alexander McQueen 2010 Rose Print Gown
Size: Extra small
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Alexander McQueen Spring 2010 rose print gown
1930s Old Hollywood glamour with an iconic Mcqueen edge
High neckline, padded shoulders and dramatic capelet
Skirt is an asymmetrical fishtail that finishes in a slinky train
The digitally collaged rose print incorporates the bioluminescent shades of McQueen's groundbreaking S/S 2010 Plato's Atlantis collection. His final full collection in which he pioneered the digital collage print
The dress is fully tailored and lined with two hidden zippers, one in the side and one in the back of the dress
Silk crepe
Size 38
Flat Measurements~ Shoulders 14" Chest 17" Waist 13.5" Hip 17" Length 62" shoulder to front hem
- Excellent condition
Sweet Disorder Vintage ships worldwide. All items are shipped within 2-5 business days.
International Shipping rates vary, depending on weight & country. Several international shipping options are available at checkout including DHL. USPS First Class International service is available but please be advised we cannot be held responsible for lost or delayed packages if you choose this option. Sweet Disorder Vintage is not responsible for any duty, customs or other charges for taxes or clearance purposes.
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Sweet Disorder Vintage is not responsible for delays due to shipping carriers or customs.
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size | xs | small | medium | large | xl |
bust | 32-34 | 34-36 | 36-38 | 38-40 | 40-42 |
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We're here for you in 2021 and beyond
Whatever 2021 has in store, we want to reassure you that we're here for you and your financial planning needs. In addition to uncertainties created by the pandemic, Brexit, trade and political issues will no doubt persist. As always, the only real certainty is that we live in uncertain times. There are many factors involved with determining the mood and movement of the property market; few things have a bigger impact than uncertainty. Rest assured we are here to help if you have any questions about the property sector, mortgages, or your protection requirements. We are proud to support you through 2021 and look ahead with hope and confidence.
As a mortgage is secured against your home or property, it could be repossessed if you do not keep up mortgage repayments.


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Divine Liturgy according to St. Germanus of Paris
La divine liturgie selon Saint Germain de Paris, or the Divine Liturgy according to St Germanus of Paris, is the principal liturgy of the Orthodox Church of France, the French Orthodox Church, and the Orthodox Church of the Gauls.
History of the liturgy's restoration
Prior to its restoration by the French Church, the Gallican liturgy had been reconstructed by Father Pierre Lebrun of the Oratory (1661-1729), Father Vladimir Guettée (1816-1892), and the Abbbé Louis Marie Olivier Duchesne (1843-1922). After the formation of the Orthodox Church of France in 1936, the priest Evgraph Kovalevsky, later Bishop Jean of Saint-Denis, set about restoring the Gallican rite for use by the French Church. The principal documents he used that had been unavailable to his predecessors were two letters ascribed to St Germanus of Paris (496-576) that describe the liturgy in sixth-century Paris. Kovalevsky drew on the writings of numerous Gallican saints of the same era that provide information on Gallican liturgical practice, as well as extant missals, sacramentaries, lectionaries, and antiphonaries. The restored liturgy has gone through several editions (1956, 1968, 1973, 1975, and 1998). Some Orthodox outside of the French Church circulated rumors that the liturgy was simply a product of Kovalevsky's imagination. In response to this, Archbishop John Maximovitch chaired a special liturgical commission that studied the liturgy word by word, comparing it to the original sources. The 1961 report of the commission declared the liturgy to be authentic. It was approved for use by the Church of Russia, the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia, the Church of Romania, and the Church of Serbia.
Present use
This article forms part of the series on the Western Rite | |
History | |
Rule of St. Benedict Nineteenth Century Twentieth Century Criticism | |
Liturgics | |
Liturgy of St. Gregory Liturgy of St. Tikhon Liturgy of St. Germanus Sarum Rite Gallican Rite Stowe Missal Service Books Vestments | |
Groupings | |
Antiochian Western Rite Vicariate Society of St. Basil Orthodox Church of France | |
Monasteries | |
Christminster Saint Petroc Holy Name Abbey (Old Calendarist) | |
Edit this box |
In addition to the parishes of the Orthodox Church of France, of the Orthodox Church of the Gauls, and the French Orthodox Church, the Liturgy of St Germanus is also used by a number of parishes that were formerly with the French Church but which are now part of Church of Serbia, the Church of Romania, and the Church of Alexandria (Coptic).
In 2010, the Gallican Rite priest and author Fr Allyne Smith was received into the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia, with Metropolitan Hilarion blessing the continued use of the Gallican Rite at St John the Wonderworker Orthodox Church in Des Moines, Iowa.
Structure of the ordinary
The following is the order of the Gallican liturgy as it was restored in the twentieth century by the Orthodox Church of France. Unlike the Roman and Milanese rites, the Gallican does not have a fixed anaphora, but instead uses variable texts before and after the institution narrative.
- Preparation of the Offerings
- Prælegendum (entrance psalm)
- Call for silence and greeting
- Trisagion in Greek, Latin, and the vernacular)
- Kyrie (single)
- Hymn (of the season or the day)
- Collect of the Day
- First Reading (Old Testament or patristic text)
- Gradual
- Second Reading (Epistle, Book of Acts, or the Apocalypse)
- Benedicite (Song of the Three Young Men)
- Alleluia (or Tract in Lent)
- Thrice-Holy before the Gospel
- Gospel
- Canticle of the Apocalypse
- Homily
- Litany of St Martin
- Collect after the Preces
- Dismissal of the catechumens
- The Symbol of Faith (Creed)
- Preface to the Faithful
- Great Entrance with Sonus and Laudes
- Collect of the Offertory
- Diptychs and Collect after the Names
- Kiss of Peace and Collect
- Anaphora: Dialogue, variable Immolatio, Sanctus, variable Post-Sanctus, institution narrative, anamnesis, epiclesis, variable Post-Epiclesis, blessing of the elements, final doxology
- Breaking of the Bread and fraction anthem
- Lord's Prayer
- Elevation of the Gifts
- Blessing of the Faithful
- Communion and communion chant
- Trecanum (post-communion hymn of thanksgiving to the Trinity)
- Postcommunion collect
- Hymn of thanksgiving
- Dismissal with blessing
- La divine liturgie selon Saint Germain de Paris (Paris, 1998)
- La sainte messe selon saint Germain de Paris (Paris, 1975)
- La sainte messe selon saint Germain de Paris et le chant des fidèles (Paris, 1968 and 1973)
- La divine liturgie selon Saint Germain de Paris (Paris, 1956)
- Monseigneur Jean (Kovalevsky) of Saint-Denis, Le canon eucharistique de l'ancien rite des Gaules (Paris, c. 1956)
- Du rit occidental: Rapport de la Commision Liturgique (1960)
External ink
- French edition of the Divine Liturgy according to St Germanus of Paris The official French text of the liturgy as celebrated by the Orthodox Church of France.
- The Divine Liturgy of St Germanus Edition of a UK parish of the Orthodox Church of the Gauls.
- Die Göttliche Liturgie unseres heiligen Vaters Germanus von Paris German translation of the liturgy.


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Remember, if you share your knowledge, your audience will be large and growing. Articles should not be overtly promotional. Rather, they should provide interesting or helpful information.
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Don't Panic, Beliebers: Justin Bieber and Hailey Baldwin Aren't Married
Justin Bieber and Hailey Baldwin may have made headlines after being spotted hanging together in Miami and making out in New York City, but despite rumors (and a curiously placed ring), the two certainly haven't walked down the aisle together.
After being seen out and about wearing a ring on his left ring finger, some eagle-eyed Beliebers wondered if the Biebs and his model girlfriend had secretly gotten hitched. Sources tell TMZ, however, that the jewelry was just part of a ploy to prank the pesky paparazzi.
"Justin wanted to play a prank on paps by slipping a band on his left ring finger. He figured he'd sit back and watch the internet explode — and that's pretty much what happened," TMZ wrote on Thursday (June 21).
Their source added that "as of now, there are zero plans for a wedding — Justin and Hailey are still just enjoying each other's company."
Baldwin was previously linked to Shawn Mendes as recently as May — the two attended the Met Gala together — but Mendes maintains that he and the model have a platonic relationship, and that if she and Bieber are dating, he supports the pairing.
"I love them both. They're both really awesome people," he said.


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Cat Child Found in Cave!
Or, maybe not?
Vikki Thomas, intrepid journalist for The Sun, reports that "A CAT-BOY has stunned medics with his ability to SEE in pitch black with eyes that GLOW in the dark." All the preceding CAPITAL LETTERS are THE SUN'S, possibly designed to FREAK YOU THE HELL OUT because OMG CAT-BOY WILL DESTROY US ALL!
Young Nong Youhui was supposedly brought to a hospital by his dad Ling, who claimed that the boy's freaky blue eyes gave him the power of superior night vision and thus allowing him to read in pitch blackness. Amazingly, the article also claims that the boy can see perfectly well in the daylight.
I say BULLSHIT. Yeah, I can use capitals, too.
First of all, cats can see better in the dark due to eyes that operate in a very different way from humans', thanks to a very long history of evolving along completely different tracks. For instance, cats have pupils that narrow to slits and grow much larger than yours to let more light in while hunting in the dark. They also have larger lenses to absorb even more light, and they even have an extra part called the tapetum lucidum that bounces light back and forth to give them another chance at seeing something in the dark (that's what causes the gleam when you shine a light at a cat's eyes). Cats also have more rods, the photoreceptors that benefit night vision.
Even if the boy somehow managed to procure similar eyeballs to a cat, all those attributes come at a cost. A cat cannot, as the article states, see "as clearly as most people do during the day." In exchange for better night vision, the cat gives up the ability to focus on near objects and the handy tool of depth perception (edit: sorry, I meant "good depth of field" – kitties can't focus on anything outside things at just the right distance). Their greater number of rods results in fewer cones, removing their ability to see sharp detail and rich color.
The point is: you can't have your night-vision cake and eat it in broad daylight, too.
Here's where else your bullshit detector should have rung. The Sun's only offered explanation for this eerie happening is the following sentence:
Experts believe he was born with a rare condition called leukodermia which has left his eyes with less protective pigment and more sensitive to light.
Leukodermia, also known as vitiligo, isn't associated with cat-like super-vision – it's most often associated with Michael Jackson, since it happens to be that disorder in which you get blotchy patches on your skin and hair.
A study of 100 patients with the disorder did find a strong correlation with vision problems, so if anything, the kid would be worse off. The article suggests that the disorder makes one more sensitive to light, which is true, but not in the idiotic way that The Sun suggests. "More sensitive" means that it is painful for people with certain ocular disorders to see in daylight, which impairs their vision, not helping it.
So what's the real explanation?
Well, it's hard to say, since the article doesn't give us the name of the hospital, the doctors involved in these "medical tests," or even a god damned picture of the mysterious glowing eyeballs. Oh, and this is the very same newspaper that previously brought us a story on the Lost City of Atlantis with a photo of Patrick Duffy and a sidebar written by Plato, the deceased philosopher. (Turns out, it was just the path of the boats used to collect the data. Whoops!)
More likely? It's a hoax propagated by a poor family looking to make a quick profit by selling a cheap parlor trick to a laughably gullible journalist.
Thanks to Steve for sending us the link!


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novel writing
Kurt Vonnegut: 16 Rules For Writing Fiction
16 Rules For Writing Fiction by Kurt Vonnegut. Check out these great rules for writers, novelists, and short story writers from one of the top novelists ever to write a book. 1. Use the time of a total stranger in such a way that he or she will not feel the time was wasted. 2. […]
About John Kremer
John Kremer is author of 1001 Ways to Market Your Books, the Relationships Matter Marketing program, and many other books and reports on book marketing, Internet marketing, social media, and book publicity. -- John Kremer on Book Marketing.


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I am happily married with two great teenagers and feel blessed for my time with family and friends. I enjoy volunteering in the community through our high school booster club, Boy Scouts, and our church.
In the summer, you can find me relaxing at our cottage in Michigan, at a rooftop bar in Chicago, or reading a book on our porch.
I am a leader in the delivery of Project and Program Management solutions for New Jersey. I am also an Account Manager for an insurance client, where we have implemented large-scale process, program, and technology solutions over the past 5 years, working alongside a strong team of Ajani consultants. Prior to Ajani, I spent 10+ years at Avantage and Codiqa, starting as a developer building compensation survey and market pricing tools.
I continued to grow in leadership and project management, ultimately leading the Application Development group for the consulting side of AonHewitt.
We built a strong offshore team with Manish Mehra, who now leads our UK team. Having such a great team makes my job as president and cofounder much easier. The best parts of my day are when I get to collaborate with the brilliant people who work here.
In the winter, I enjoy skiing with my family, Ajani happy hours in the Loop, and trying the latest restaurants with my neighbors and friends.
All of my peers and friends at our company! They bring such energy and creativity – I learn from them each and every day.
Doing the Sunday crossword puzzle on the couch all Sunday afternoon!


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Greetings from the Department of Natural Resources Atchafalaya Basin Program!
NEWS: NolaVie: Bears on the Bayou WAFB: Residents concerned about trash in Bayou Plaquemine Teche Today: DHH Reports 2014'S First Human Cases of West Nile Virus Tri-Parish Times: Scientists: Terrebonne, Barataria toxins on the rise Save the Date Online Kayak Fishing Tournament: March 1 to October 15 Kayak Sale at Pack & Paddle Evangeline, the Movie July 1st-31st, 2014 daily showing Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site at 1:30 pm Howl at the Moon Evening Paddle at Lake Martin, Pack & Paddle, Friday July 11th Bayou Grand Gueule Afternoon Paddle: July 12, Pack & Paddle, 2 pm French Fridays at Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site on July 11th, 18th and 25th Pine Needle Basketry at Marksville State Historic Site on July 11th Bayou Grand Gueule Afternoon Paddle, Pack & Paddle, Saturday July 12th Kayaking 101 - Basic Skills for Flatwater Kayaking, July 17 at 5 pm, Lake Martin Les Mains Guidées : Edible Wild Plants on July 12th at Vermilionville Bayou Teche Children's Camp, July 14-18 2014 Wood Stork & Wading Bird Event at South Farm - Sherburne WMA on July 19th Bushman Crafts, July 19, 9-10 am at Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site in St. Martinville Friends of the Atchafalaya Monthly Meeting - July 22 at 6:30 pm, Audubon Office, 6160 Perkins Rd., Baton Rouge Atchafalaya Basin Program Technical Advisory Group Meeting, Wednesday, July 30 at 9:30 am, LDNR Griffon Rm. 617 N. 3rd St., Baton Rouge Atchafalaya Basin Program Research and Promotion Board Meeting, Wednesday, July 31 at 9:30 am, LDNR Griffon Rm. 617 N. 3rd St., Baton Rouge
Send in your Basin Pics! Let us know if you have an upcoming event to promote the Basin!
Send in your Basin Pics!
Let us know if you have an upcoming event to promote the Basin!
Checking the water:The information below is obtained from the USGS and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and has been compiled by DNR into this format to allow a quick look at information pertinent to the Atchafalaya Basin. Click here for current weather conditions and water levels.
Data is for 7/10/2014
Mississippi River at CairoLocation: Southernmost gauge on the Ohio River in Illinois Reading significance - used to forecast rises on the Mississippi. Lag time, 4 to 6 days.Flood Stage: 40'Stage: 28.7'24 hour change +0.2Forecast: expect to RISE to 31.2' by 7/15
Mississippi River, just south of ORCS, at Red River LandingReading: Mississippi River south of ORCS, after the diversion into the Atchafalaya Flood Stage: 48'Stage: 38.2'24 hour change 0.0'Forecast: expect to FALL to 37.5' by 7/15
Mississippi River at Baton RougeFlood Stage: 35'Stage: 22.3'24 hour change -0.1'Forecast: expect to FALL to 21.7' by 7/15
Mississippi River at New OrleansFlood Stage: 17'Stage: 7.1'24 hour change 0.0'Forecast: expect to RISE to 6.9' by 7/15
Atchafalaya River at MelvilleFlood Stage: 34'Stage: 13.6'Forecast: expect to FALL to 13.0' by 7/15
Atchafalaya River at Krotz SpringsFlood Stage: 29'Stage: 11.7'Forecast: expect to FALL to 11.3' by 7/15
Atchafalaya River above Butte LaroseFlood Stage: 20'Stage: 8.6'Forecast: expect to FALL to 8.3' by 7/15Atchafalaya River at Bayou Sorrell Locks on the GIWWFlood Stage: 12'Stage: 5'Forecast: expect to REMAIN at 5' through 7/15
Atchafalaya at Millet (Myette) PointFlood Stage: 15'Stage: 5.7'Forecast: expect to REMAIN at 5.7' through 7/15
Atchafalaya River at Morgan CityFlood Stage: 6'Stage: 3.2'Forecast: expect to RISE to 3.3' by 7/15
Murphy Lake near Bayou SorrelStage: 10.44'
Lower Grand River at Bayou SorrelStage: 7.37'
Bayou CourtableauStage: 18.32'
Buffalo Cove at Round IslandStage: 6.42'Arm of Grand Lake near Crook CheneStage: 8.27'
Middle Fork, Bayou LongStage: 3.89'
Pontoon Bridge at Butte LaroseStage: 7.77'
Bayou Darby at Fausse Pt. CutStage: 13.15'
Lake Pelba at I-10, HendersonStage: 11.61'


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I did something a little different when I painted the
kitchen walls. I went with a muted green/white wall color because my overall
plan is to paint the kitchen cabinets a bright cheery red instead of replacing
them. I want to play with deep and light color tones in this room.
I'm not sure but I think I went too light on the wall color
in this room.
Husband is taking advantage of this and pushing for an orange room.
Especially after I took the personality and color quiz on My Colortopia. Based on my answers, My Colortopia gave us an
orange paint color scheme we both like.
I embedded the My Colortopia quiz widget in this post if you
want to give it whirl too.
Husband wanted to go for it until I pointed out that the
color of our current curtains, kitchen chairs, and linens wouldn't go with the
proposed orange walls. We'd have to replace all of that stuff too. Given the
drama we had when we transported the
dining room chairs home from the store and that the only set of curtains we
both liked after searching for months was on vacation in Maryland, it's best
for our marriage if we keep those things in the room for now. If Husband wants
a new wall color it should be something that goes with what we already have.
That's where I'm stuck on color schemes. The paint flyers
with the color suggestions at the store aren't much help because they don't
have the colors of my current room elements or design inspirations. The nerve!
Instead of using My Colortopia's preloaded inspiration
photos, I took a photo of the permanent color elements I want to keep in the
kitchen. I uploaded it to the My Colortopia My Image Inspiration tool, selected
the area of the photo I want to use, and clicked Show Colors.
Blitzkrieg's fur represents the tans and browns in my floor
covering. Also, he sheds like a boss so anything that makes his dog fur tumble
weeds look like design elements is a plus.
I played around with selecting different areas and sizes of my photo to see the different colors of Glidden paint My Colortopia suggested from my inspiration photo.
I played around with selecting different areas and sizes of my photo to see the different colors of Glidden paint My Colortopia suggested from my inspiration photo.
The My Image Inspiration color palette option works the same way as on the My Colortopia quiz results. I clicked Wild Truffle and it gave me three different color schemes. I moved my mouse over the color block to reveal the names of the paint colors.
I like the gray (Wood Smoke) for my walls. I considered gray
the first time but wasn't sure how well it would work with the tan elements of
the room. Looks like it will work just fine.
Since I have to get spousal approval on this, I clicked My
Tools and used the options to email the
color options to Husband because we we're out of color printer ink otherwise
I'd print out the shopping list and stick it under his nose.
I can also upload the options to Facebook if I need more people to convince Husband my choice is better than his J. Not that I would get all of my Facebook peeps to gang up on him to get my way or anything…
What do you think? Should I repaint the walls of my kitchen
now or wait until I eventually paint the cabinets red?
Disclosure: I have partnered with Glidden/Akzo Nobel Paints to write this post but the thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.


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Garage Door Repair
Lawrence, New Jersey
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"DREAMS COME TRUE", Acrylic mirror Pen stand
- Regular Price
- Rs. 680.00
- Sale Price
- Rs. 680.00
- Regular Price
- Rs. 999.00
Sold Out
- Unit Price
- per
Tax included.
Shipping calculated at checkout.
Start styling your tables with reflective acrylic high-quality pen stands having quirky quote/text/design over laser cutting stands of size 9cmX7.5cmX10cm. Your table awaits it!


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I understand all the concepts of what voltage is using all the analogies but some things related to the drop of voltage across a circuit confuses me.
If I had a short circuit and attached a voltmeter I would get a potential difference reading of 0 volts. How is current then going through the wire if it is 'X' volts at any point in the wire?
Let's say I have a DC 9V battery with a load in the middle. I read somewhere (probably mistaken here) that the voltage drop in this situation must be 9V or rather, that the sum of load resistances must be equal to voltage of the source. I mean, there is a variable amount of resistance to each load so at the base of the load I might have 9V and at the end of the load I might have 5V with a 4V potential difference.


text:
Your cart is currently empty
Capitalizing on the very popular Ned Rig technique, the Roboworm Ned Worm offers "hand pour" style color schemes that were not previously available to Ned Riggers. The Roboworm Ned Worm features a short, fat profile that makes it ideal for rigging on a small jig head, and its flat bottom also allows it to glide with a subtle quivering action as it falls to the bottom. Very effectively on a wacky rig, drop shot, and Carolina-rig as well, the Roboworm Ned Worm is a deadly finesse bait any way you want to use it.
Poured with Roboworm's state-of-the-art robotic pouring system, which creates well defined colors similar to old school hand pours, but more consistent, it is also equipped with a Salt Release System that provides a burst of salt when a fish bites to make them hold on longer for better hooksets. Available in a wide range of proven fish catching colors, the Roboworm Ned Worm offers anglers a higher quality soft plastic for the Ned Rid technique.
Length | Quantity |
3" | 8 |
4.5" | 6 |


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A select Who's Who on the contemporary DC area jazz scene
By Willard Jenkins
Along with colleagues Blair Ruble, Prof. Maurice Jackson, Rusty Hassan and others I recently had the pleasure of participating as one of the writers in a new issue of the Washington Historical Society's magazine focusing on DC's rich jazz history. You can visit that issue at the following link: http://www.historydc.org/publications/washhistory.aspx
Washington, DC, actually a metropolitan region in and of itself when you consider its Maryland and Virginia environs, is rich in jazz history. The current wealth of contemporary jazz talent that resides in the DMV (DC-Maryland-Virginia) and performs around the area, with the most kinetic activity squarely within the confines of DC itself, is robust.
The following series of capsule profiles reflect the level of jazz talent affluence this area enjoys, focusing on a mere percentage of the exceptional musicians living and performing in our midst. Contributors all, we've chosen to break these artists down into three different categories to reflect at least some measure of what they bring to arts & culture in the DC area.
Two factors stand out in these profiles, particularly of those younger artists represented here who have arrived on the DC jazz scene since the 1990s – it is truly remarkable how many of them are graduates of the Duke Ellington School of the Arts, and how many received their advanced training at Howard University. Those two institutions have contributed immeasurably to invigorating the 21st century DC contemporary jazz scene. Another factor to be mindful of is the number of musicians in these profiles whose importance as scene or business innovators compels their presence here.
Here's a sampling of veteran DC area artists who perennially set the tone for the DC jazz scene.
Sharon Clark, voice.
Blessed with a rich, honeycombed voice, and impressive sense of time, Sharon Clark, based on the glowing notices she's been getting from her regular forays to such singer's haunts as Manhattan's chic Metropolitan Room, stands poised for international recognition. As JazzTimes magazine succinctly put it, Ms. Clark is "a revelation," but here on the DC scene we've known that for more than a minute!
Tasty Platter: My Tribute to Shirley Horn (CD Baby)
Marshall Keys, saxophone. One of several DC-resident artists who've made State Department tours, Marshall Keys is a DC perennial who always contributes to whatever setting he's called into – from Stevie Wonder to Jason Moran's Bandwagon. In addition, he's a big booster of DC's burgeoning jazz talent: "I've been telling anyone who'll listen that between DC and Baltimore, the number of really good players is as high or higher than at anytime I can recall." For Marshall Keys, versatility and flexibility are a hallmark.
Tasty Platter: Times Aligned (CDBY)
James King, bass. James King is DC's first call bassist whenever visiting artists require a rhythm section. A native of Houston, King is a regular with the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra. His vast experience has ranged from vocal bandstands the likes of Freddy Cole and Shirley Horn to such restless explorers as Gary Bartz and Pharoah Sanders. King brings an opulent, full tone and deep rhythmic sensibility to whatever bandstand he graces.
Tasty Platter: Allen's Odyssey (CDBY)
Tony Martucci, drums. Drummers blessed with good taste are known far and wide; so it's never a surprise to find Tony Martucci digging the scene whenever one of his traveling cohorts comes to town. His range of experiences, including Mose Allison, Charlie Byrd, Dewey Redman, and Joe Henderson, to the Russian/American co-op called Partners in Time (formerly Jazznost) certainly bears out his skills as an adept traps man. "What I have observed," says Martucci, "is that Washington is now viewed globally as a hotbed of talent and creativity. No longer is moving away a prerequisite for relevance."
Tasty Platter: Life in Hand (CDBY)
Steve Novosel, bass. The DC scene is particularly blessed with rangy bass players and Steve Novosel is the senior member of that crew. Novosel's wealth of experience is broad and impressive and his discography boasts the invaluable lower end essence he brings to all manner of bandstands. Though he's provided stellar support to myriad recordings, curiously Steve Novosel has yet to make his own recording!
Tasty Platter: w/David Bond Quartet, The Early Show (Live at Twins Jazz) (CIMP)
Lenny Robinson, drums.
Yes, you're getting the picture, the DC scene has first-class rhythm section players, and you can add Baltimore native Lenny Robinson to the list of first-rate drummers. Lenny's credits include some of the most facile contributors to the scene, but lately he's invested a good deal of energy in his own Lenny Robinson Group, the cooperative trio Three For All, and an organ unit he calls the Organic Trio; for each of which Lenny also serves as producer.
Tasty Platter: Songs I Like to Play (CDBY)
Harold Summey, drums. Besides the impressive number of Duke Ellington School and Howard University grads who continue to nourish the DC jazz scene, one supply house that may be overlooked is the military bands in the area. Harold Summey, who won the initial Thelonious Monk Competition for drums in '92, has performed extensively with the US Army Blues jazz ensemble. Additionally he's worked with such NEA Jazz Masters as Sonny Rollins and Wynton Marsalis.
Tasty Platter: w/Byron Morris, Unity Y2K (By-Mor Music)
Andrew White, saxophones. Recognized internationally, Andrew White is a true DC jazz legend. Known for his virtuosic playing on all manner of reed instruments, in most recent times his concentration has been on the alto and tenor saxophones. There's also a legion out there that remember his electric bass prowess with Weather Report, or perhaps his touring on bass guitar with Stevie Wonder; or maybe they know him for his bold series of tales from the bandstand, or for his vast discography and catalogue of original compositions. These days Andrew doesn't emerge with great frequency, but when he does he truly brings the fire.
Tasty Platter: w/Michael Thomas Quintet (featuring Andrew White), Live at Twins Jazz (Jazhead)
These artists are not only playing the clubs and concerts around the DC area, they're also a diverse lot who have taken often unique initiatives to contribute to the DC jazz scene in a multitude of ways beyond the bandstand.
Michael Bowie, bass-educator. Signature jazz singer Billie Holiday always said the most important member of her band was the bass player. If that's indeed the case then Michael Bowie is unquestionably an MVP, having put in lengthy stints with a stellar list of vocalists, including NEA Jazz Masters Betty Carter and Abbey Lincoln, as well as the Manhattan Transfer. In addition to his role as an utterly dependable bassist around town, Michael Bowie also directs the Blues Alley Youth Orchestra, bringing new generations of musicians into the music. Michael's current passion is the diverse ensemble Sine Qua Non. "I finally found my writing voice," he says, "and I believe the music and the band has nothing but tremendous upside."
Tasty Platter: Sine Qua Non, Simple Pleasures (TranSoul)
Amy K. Bormet, piano-voice. Yet another graduate of Duke Ellington School of the Arts, after earning her bachelor's in the music program at the University of Michigan where she studied with Geri Allen, she followed her mentor's lead by earning an MA in music at Howard University. Since then this young woman has created a very necessary scene by founding and producing the now annual Washington Women in Jazz Festival.
Tasty Platter: Striking (CD Baby)
Larry Brown, piano. A multiple Wammie Award winner, for both his quartet and his recordings, Larry has led his quintet on all the most important bandstands in the DC area, ranging from Blues Alley, Twins Jazz and the Bohemian Caverns, to the Kennedy Center and the Mid-Atlantic Jazz Festival. More recently he's become music director at the new Bethesda Blues & Jazz Supper Club. Asked how he sees these roles intersecting, Brown says "Having dealt with [performance producers] my whole career I understand the pressure they're under and the complexity of their jobs. Now I have to straddle that fence – one day as a performer trying to book my Quintet, the next wearing the other hat as I negotiate with fellow artists for a performance date."
Tasty Platter: Live at the Mid-Atlantic Jazz Festival 2011 (DVD)
Paul Carr, saxophones-educator. Paul Carr is a bandleader/recording artist, educator, and most recently jazz festival presenter. Four years ago he added production of the annual Mid-Atlantic Jazz Festival (MAJF) to an already busy portfolio that includes direction of the Jazz Academy of Music. JAM is a thriving year-round Montgomery County-based jazz education program that also produces an annual summer camp. Carr suggests that as a result of his festival production work "I have a greater appreciation for the economics of the business and the conflict between the musician's fee expectations and the presenter's need to make a reasonable profit or at least break even. Without subsidy, traditional jazz musicians would experience a very different reality."
Tasty Platter: Standard Domain (PCJ)
Chad Carter, voice. A real self-starter, with the working support of his parents Chad Carter has forged an admirable Monday night policy at Vicino's restaurant in Silver Spring that has not only provided a platform for his development as a singer but has also engaged many of the area's finest artists. Musicians should take note that here's a man who rather than moan about lack of opportunity, forged one himself at a venue that prior to his entrees had no music policy whatsoever. He saw an opening to forge a mutually beneficial venue partnership and seized it.
Tasty Platter: Let Me Love You (JK)
Fred Foss, saxophones-educator. Fred Foss comes by his flinty alto saxophone approach honestly, as a student of the Jackie McLean school of playing and one who learned valuable lessons from Dr. Jackle. Foss is an honored and very successful educator whose youth jazz ensembles have graduated a number of exceptional adherents, from trumpeter Wallace Roney to saxophonist Elijah Jamal Balbed. In addition to his horns and teaching exploits, Fred Foss has also served as president of the thoroughly unique Listening Group, a 25-year old collective of jazz enthusiasts and intellectuals.
Tasty Platter: Journey (Amosaya)
Chris Grasso, piano.
It takes a special pianist with a high degree of selflessness to serve effectively as an expert vocal accompanist. In the DC area there is none finer at this exacting craft than Chris Grasso. That means Chris Grasso possesses a fertile rolodex of singers around the country. Many of those singers he formerly booked into the elegant room at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, a good taste curatorial quotient he has more recently successfully transferred to the Loews Madison Hotel after being derailed by shortsighted new owners at Mandarin. About that work, Grasso says, "Most people, even serious jazz fans, want to be entertained. That may sound simple, but I think the ability to put on a show is a lost art among many performers today. I try to make sure that happens as much as possible when I book bands and when I perform."
Tasty Platter: w/Sharon Clark, Do it Again: My Tribute to Shirley Horn (CD Baby)
Allyn Johnson, piano-educator. A player of supreme swing and unmistakable soul, Johnson is as at home in a burning jazz context as he is in the church; the latter skill best evidenced by his exceptional unit that fuses gospel and jazz known as Divine Order. Allyn Johnson is also director of the jazz studies program at his alma mater, the University of the District of Columbia.
Tasty Platter: Divine Order (Allyn Johnson)
Marcus Johnson, piano-keyboards. A player who operates in the groove-oriented arena, Marcus is likely the most entrepreneurial musician in the DC area, no small feat. The Howard University grad holds an MBA and a Georgetown law degree, as well as his own custom wine imprint, Flo – for the love of. An NAACP Image award nominee, under his Flo banner he's a master marketer, combining performances with wine tastings, motivational speaking engagements.
Tasty platter: Urban Groove (Marimelj)
Ken Kimery, drums. Ken Kimery is one of the people who keep the jazz flame alive at the Smithsonian Institution. He's the current producer of the Smithsonian's auspicious jazz oral history project, producer of the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra (SJMO) – the closest thing we have to a national jazz orchestra – and coordinator of the Jazz Masterworks Editions publications. Beyond that, if you've been fortunate enough to catch some of the SJMO's thematic concerts, that guy you saw executing the percussive details behind the trap drums is Ken Kimery as well!
Tasty Platter: w/Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra, Live at MCG (DVD)
Brad Linde, saxophone.
In addition to his own career as a saxophonist-composer, Brad Linde also leads the Bohemian Caverns Jazz Orchestra and curates the jazz performances at the Atlas Performing Arts Center. The Orchestra is obviously a great passion of Brad's: "The Bohemian Caverns Jazz Orchestra has had the opportunity to grow and develop as a band, explore an ever-expanding repertoire of origin
originals and arrangements, feature stellar soloists, and foster a community of like-minded musicians. Our weekly engagement provides a destination for audiences seeking to hear the best the District has to offer in a creative setting that supports and contributes to the past, present and future of jazz."
Tasty Platter: Ted Brown & Brad Linde, Two of a Kind (CD Baby)
Luke Stewart, bass-saxophone. This young Mississippi native has worked to create some unusual scenes in the District through his Capital Bop partnership with presentation of some of the area's more adventurous musicians and ensembles through their DC Jazz Loft series. The AU grad also serves as a weekly programmer at WPFW, "Jazz & Justice Radio". "All the things I do are interconnected through the community," says Stewart. "My personal inspirations as an artist come from practicing and studying all facets of music and engaging the community."
Michael Thomas, trumpet.
The ever-swinging Michael Thomas Group
A significant thread of the fabric of jazz is the tradition of the working band. That tradition has waned somewhat in recent years, partly due to the daunting economics of keeping a band working enough to stay together. For well over a decade trumpeter Michael Thomas has managed to maintain the Michael Thomas Quintet, a hard-charging unit deeply invested in the tradition laid down by Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers. He's also managed to chronicle the band through a series of heated recordings on his own Jazhead imprint. "We truly have fun together and a tremendously healthy sense of swing and soul. This is where the band's "Swing or Die" mentality comes from," Thomas exclaims.
Tasty Platter: Live at Twins Jazz (Jazhead)
Thad Wilson, trumpet. At one point in the jazz lineage the big band was the signature ensemble. That changed with the advent of the modern jazz era, however there were still those steadfast souls who continued to believe in the majesty of the big band sound, both classic & contemporary. Maintaining a big band is no mean feat, so besides his trumpet prowess Thad Wilson deserves a place on this list purely because he has persevered in a tough climate for large ensembles. Like several on this list Thad Wilson also teaches, as part of the Jazz Studies Dept. at George Washington University.
Tasty Platter: A Work in Progress (Language)
Charlie Young, saxophone-educator. Alto saxophonist Charlie Young is both superb section player and adept soloist, as evidenced by his being featured in the 21st century incarnation of the Duke Ellington Orchestra, the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra, as well as recording stints with the Count Basie Orchestra and appearances with the National Symphony Orchestra and the West End Chamber Orchestra. These experiences lend themselves well to Young's day job as Coordinator of Jazz Studies at Howard University's impactful program. In 2013 the baton of artistic director of the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra was passed from recently retired founder David Baker to Charlie Young.
Jazz families have indelibly contributed to the fabric of the music. Think about the Calloways, Ellington father & son, the Joneses, the Heaths, the Adderleys, the Brubecks, and countless others; here in the DC area the music has been a family affair in more than one household.
Nasar Abadey, drums-educator; Kush Abadey, drums.
A native of Buffalo, Nasar Abadey has long been one of the more resourceful drummers on the DC scene; and he also imparts that wisdom at Peabody Institute where he's a Professor of Percussion. But where he's been most successful is in dropping that drum science on his young son Kush, 22 at this writing. "Kush exhibited an early gravitation to music before he could walk," says Nasar. "Later when he was two years old he held sticks in a way to indicate a natural and proper grip for the sticks. He was never forced or pushed to play music." Says Kush, "Watching my father perform was one of the most inspiring things I could witness at a young age. It was honestly a no-brainer that I wanted to follow in the same path as my father."
Tasty Platter: Nasar Abadey Supernova, Diamond in the Rough (CDBY)
Christie Dashiell, voice; C.V. Dashiell, drums; Christian Dashiell, bass.
The children of bassist-educator Carroll Dashiell are poised to make their own separate impacts on jazz both here and beyond. Christie's lovely, supple voice was the leading light in Howard University's premiere vocal jazz ensemble Afro Blue. C.V. Dashiell is turning up increasingly on bandstands around town, and both he and Christian have accompanied their sister and others. So what was it like growing up in what must have been a creative family home? "It was my dad's love for music and education that encouraged my brothers and I to become serious students of music at a very young age," says Christie, who is currently studying for her MA in music at the prestigious Manhattan School of Music. "The second we all decided to take music, my dad made sure to instill in us the value of practicing and truly learning our craft."
Tasty Platter: Afro Blue, The Best is Yet to Come (HU)
Imani, voice; Pepe Gonzalez, bass-educator. This spousal unit has experienced a wide array of opportunities, from Imani's contribution to Wynton Marsalis' "Congo Square" and her own recordings, to Pepe's numerous straight ahead and Latin Jazz stints. Pepe serves as Assistant Director of the Jazz Academy of Music and teaches at the Levine School of Music.
Tasty Platters: Imani, Calling You (IFP); Pepe Gonzalez, Looking Back (CDBY)
Nathan Jolley, drums. Noble Jolley, Jr., piano. Twin brothers Nathan and Noble Jolley, Jr. are the legacy of their late father, guitarist Noble Jolley, who was the first ever-jazz degree graduate from Howard University. The brothers have gone on to matriculate themselves, from the Peabody Institute's burgeoning jazz studies program. Growing up in a house that also included their musical sister, vocalist Rashida Jolley, "was a spiritual and natural evolution," according to Noble Jr. "Our parents taught us that "your passion reveals your gift", through which you find your career that leads you to and through your destiny. We chose music and music chose us, individually and jointly."
Tasty Platter: Jolley Brothers, Memoirs Between Brothers (J2Records)
Project Natale formed in 1998 when brothers Joe (bass) and Lou (drums) Natale relocated to the DC area. Operating with tenor man Carl Cornwell and Baltimore's own Bob Butta on piano, with band longevity being such a fleeting thing these days, Project Natale has stayed the course and performed all over the DMV.
Tasty Platter: Endangered Liberties (Inveo)
Chuck Redd, drums-vibes; Robert Redd, piano. Between them the Redd Brothers are two of the busiest musicians on the DC scene. They've also been afforded choice opportunities to play far and wide, from Chuck's performance with Dizzy Gillespie for the Namibian Independence Celebration, and work with his mentor Barney Kessel, to Robert's 13 years with the late bass master Keter Betts and long sting with Charlie Byrd. So was there brotherly competition growing up in the Redd household? "It was great growing up with a brother who was an aspiring musician," says Chuck. "We were always playing together and our tastes were pretty much the same. Just like now, only we get paid!"
Tasty Platter: When Redd is Blue (Chuck & Robert w/Steve Abshire, Tommy Cecil, Howard Curtis) (Noteworthy Jazz)
Brian Settles, saxophone. Jessica Boykin-Settles, voice. This couple graduated from DC's Duke Ellington School of the Arts, matriculated at the New School University in New York City, and completed graduate studies at Howard University, where Jessica has also served as an influential instructor. Brian got a head start on his performing career, gaining a reputation for his edgy, original saxophone work in various contexts, including the DC loft jazz series. Jessica has left HU to concentrate more on her vocal career.
Tasty Platter: Brian Settles, Secret Handshakes (Engine Studios)
Delores King Williams, vocalist. Tom Williams, trumpet-drums. These Baltimore spouses and suburban (MD) DC residents have graced various bandstands acrossthe area, including joint concerts and tours with the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra. Tom has shared the bandstand with numerous masters, from the time he was championed by NEA Jazz Master Jimmy Heath. Vivacious Delores has branched out into theatrical work, including with The Capital Steps political satire troupe.
Tasty Platter: Tom Williams, Interplay
Esther Williams, voice. Davey Yarborough, saxophone-educator.
This couple has not only collaborated on recordings, they've also developed a strong jazz presence at their house of worship, People's Congregational United Church of Christ. But it is their selfless efforts in jazz education that have rewarded them their greatest career satisfaction. Davey is the longtime director of the jazz program at Duke Ellington School of the Arts, work that recently garnered him the prestigious John LaPorta Educator of the Year Award at the 2013 Jazz Education Network conference. Together Davey and Esther have also built the Washington Jazz Arts Institute to further develop young people. "We started the WJAI because of our understanding of the importance of inspiration, support and guidance in a developing artist's journey," says Davey. "We depend on and trust each other while working together and we have grown and matured both musically and in our relationship over the 35 years or so we have collaborated," echoes Esther.
Tasty Platter: (Davey & Esther), Beautiful Friendship (Dav-Est)
Here are several emerging DC-area artists to watch; youthful in most cases, on the rise in all…
Elijah Jamal Balbed, saxophone.
This DC native, only 24 at this writing, displays a refreshing maturity in his tenor sax sound and approach, and an openness to all manner of variations on the music. He's often spotted at other folks' gigs, horn strapped to his back and ready to contribute at a moment's notice. His experiences have ranged from Chuck Brown's Go-Go to the Bohemian Caverns Jazz Orchestra.
Tasty Platter: Checking In (Elijahjamaljazz)
Herman Burney, bass.
Blessed with a wealth of experience, much of it coming while traveling with such stellar vocalists as Freddy Cole, Nnenna Freelon and Rene Marie, Burney has also contributed to the likes of saxman Sonny Fortune and trumpeter Terell Stafford. According to the bassist "I chose the bass for all the wrong reasons… it looked cool, it looked easy, Stanley Clarke did it, and most of all for the girls!… Then the bass chose me."
Tasty Platter: Offering (Bassmint)
Janine Gilbert-Carter, voice. Blessed with a crowd-pleasing manner of delivering a song, Janine's following around the area has grown exponentially. Its one thing to hear a young ingénue who hasn't lived enough life to invest real feeling in a lyric, quite another to hear someone who clearly knows; and Janine Gilbert-Carter knows.
Tasty Platter: At Last
Reginald Cyntje, trombone. This Virgin Islands native never forgets his island roots in whatever music he's applying his muscular, facile trombone technique to. Since matriculating at Howard University, Cyntje has made his mark on a diversity of bandstands. "When I first moved to DC," he recounts, "the city provided me with cultural diversity (music, religion, ethnicity). I stayed in DC because of local family and friends who inspire me."
Tasty Platter: Elements of Life (Independent)
Janelle Gill, piano-keyboards. Yet another in the growing legion of DC area artists who matriculated through Davey Yarborough's program at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts and landed in Howard University's increasingly prestigious Jazz Studies program, Ms. Gill displays a broad range and a comfort level in all manner of contexts. Always thirsty for knowledge and experience, you're liable to find Janelle Gill in the audience or on the bandstand at any time and place. When she finally does record it should be an eclectic experience.
Antonio Parker,saxophonist-educator. A native of Philly, Parker is yet another who matriculated through the Howard University Jazz Studies program. On the bandstand he's a constant, burning presence ever ready to bring passionate expression at a moment's notice. An experienced educator, Parker is also a music education entrepreneur, developing his own line of educational products and services.
Tasty Platter: Steppin' Out Live @ HR-57 (Airegin)
Eric Wheeler, bass. One area where the DC area jazz scene is truly blessed is with robust, capable bass players. Add this Duke Ellington School of the Arts and Howard University grad to that equation. One examination of the authoritative way he handled himself in the company of the celebrated John Coltrane acolyte Pharoah Sanders' vigorous and spiritual company last summer at Bohemian Caverns was convincing enough, let alone his growing contributions to the scene.
J.S. Williams, trumpeter. At the annual Listening Group New Year's Day jazz celebration Fred Foss looked up and spotted a humble young man coming his way, horn at the ready and prepared to swing. Foss introduced J.S. Williams and ever since then whenever he shows up you know some serious trumpet business will ensue. A graduate of the exceptional jazz program at New York's LaGuardia High School of Music & Art, Williams came to DC to study at Howard, then shifted to the New School jazz program. Inspired primarily by Clifford Brown, Williams is currently a doctoral candidate in music.
Tasty Platter: The Late BLUEmer
Lori Williams, vocalist.
There's a palpable joy in Lori Williams' approach to a song. Whether she's re-arranged a pop standard like the Emotions' hit "Don't Ask My Neighbors" a tender reading of "La Vie En Rose", or her uptempo update on "Body & Soul", all are delivered with an unmistakable sparkle and passion. A deeply spiritual woman, her work in Allyn Johnson's gospel-jazz project Divine Order is a revelation as well.
Tasty Platter: Eclipse of the Soul (Pacific Coast)


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UVALDE, Texas — Artists from across the state have come together in this small southwest Texas town to honor the 19 students and two teachers killed in late May at Robb Elementary School. They've painted giant portraits of each victim with the hope of helping the community heal.
It's a huge endeavor at any time, but most especially during Texas in August.
It's morning time but already sweltering just off Uvalde's pecan tree-lined town square. The artist who goes by the name Uloang, has been up all night painting, to avoid the blistering midday sun.
"I'm half awake!" he said.
A few hours earlier, he'd put the finishing touches on a 20-by-20-foot portrait of Maranda Mathis on the side of an office building. She's one of the fourth-graders killed at Robb Elementary School.
"As I was painting her face, and once I felt like I was getting her smile down, I could see her personality coming through," Uloang said. "And I just kind of felt like, 'Oh, hi, Maranda! There you are.' And I could barely hold it together. Definitely shed a few tears."
The mural is based off her mother's favorite photo of the young girl.
"Her mom mentioned that she loved being in nature, picking up river rocks," he said.
In Uloang's portrait, Maranda stands smiling in turquoise waters. Eleven Koi fish swim around her, a number chosen because she was 11 years old. She holds a brilliant amethyst crystal instead of river rocks, like in the original photo. Uloang said the idea came to him when he was sketching, and when he shared his drawing with Maranda's mom, she had a visceral reaction.
"She told me that when she saw that it was amethyst crystal in the sketch, she got chills," he said.
As it turns out, amethyst is Maranda's birthstone and purple was her favorite color. Uloang also added pink water lilies, which he later discovered were her mom's favorite flower.
"And there's been other things just kind of that would just kind of give me chills," Uloang said. "I felt like I was being guided in a way, to be honest."
Overseeing the portrait project is Abel Ortiz, who teaches art at a Uvalde college. As the project's creator, his idea was to make the 21 murals monumental.
"We never want to forget their faces," Ortiz said. "That's why they had to be murals of portraits and not just regular murals."
Ortiz didn't know 21 Texas muralists, so he put out a call for help. Monica Maldonado answered that call. Shortly after the shooting in May, she drove the three hours from her Austin home to pay her respects.
"At that moment, I knew that God was going to use me," Maldonado said. "I didn't know how, but I knew that I would be involved in some way in the journey of healing for Uvalde."
For Maldonado, that journey involved helping find buildings to host the murals and finding most of the muralists, all of whom have volunteered their time.
Uvalde residents have stopped by every day to thank the artists and bring them meals.
One recent afternoon, around the corner from Maranda's portrait, a family stood in front of two side-by-side murals. Veronica Luevonos spoke softly about the paintings.
"That's my daughter's. And that's my nephew's," she said.
Luevanos lost her daughter, 10-year-old Jailah Silguero, and her nephew, Jayce Luevanos, also 10 years old. She remembered her daughter's favorite experiences.
"She loved dancing, playing outside, being around her friends," she said.
Jailah's portrait shows her smiling in her cheerleading uniform, which she wore each Friday during football season. Luevanos said Jayce was a sweet little boy.
"Always had everybody laughing, like Jailah."
Artist Ruben Esquivel chose to paint Jayce with his favorite dinosaur ninja, a paper plane and a cup of coffee, like he made for his grandparents every day.
"And this is like his final cup of coffee to them," Esquivel said. "He also used to write them love letters. So the paper plane is this kind of final letter, and it's going to say, 'I love you' on the wing in his handwriting."
Veronica Luevanos says all the portraits are beautiful.
"It brings a lot of joy to us," she said. "A lot of comfort."
She said she plans to visit Jailah and Jayce here for the rest of her days.
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.


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Greetings from the Department of Natural Resources Atchafalaya Basin Program
NEWS: The Advocate: Catfish biting in Lake Verret Teche Today: Remember when eating crawfish was low-class? KATC: DOTD holds groundbreaking to kickoff La. 3177 project Bassmaster: Hit the grass for summer bass Louisiana Wildlife & Fisheries Commision News: L.W.F.C. Sets Tentative 2013-14 Early Season Migratory Bird Hunting Dates L.W.F.C. Issues Notices of Intent for 2014 Wild Turkey Season UPCOMING MEETINGS AND EVENTS: Athchafalaya Native American Dances and Traditions, Friday July 11th at 2:30 p.m. at the Baton Rouge Main Library Lunchtime Lecture on July 11, 2013 - 4th Louisiana at the Battle of Baton Rouge at the West Baton Rouge Museum The Creole Trail: Genealogical Ties Unite Pointe Coupee, Avoyelles, Rapides and Natchitoches parishes - July 11, 2013 Preserving the Heritage: Bayou Pigeon, Louisiana-Spirit of the Atchafalaya - July 18,2013 Wood Stork & Wading Bird Event Set for July 20 at Sherburne WMA
Louisiana Wildlife & Fisheries Commision News:
L.W.F.C. Sets Tentative 2013-14 Early Season Migratory Bird Hunting Dates
L.W.F.C. Issues Notices of Intent for 2014 Wild Turkey Season
Send in your Basin Pics! Let us know if you have an upcoming event to promote the Basin!
Send in your Basin Pics!
Let us know if you have an upcoming event to promote the Basin!
Checking the water:The information below is obtained from the USGS and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and has been compiled by DNR into this format to allow a quick look at information pertinent to the Atchafalaya Basin. Click here for current weather conditions and water levels.
Data is for 7/11/2013
Mississippi River at CairoLocation: Southernmost gauge on the Ohio River in Illinois Reading significance - used to forecast rises on the Mississippi. Lag time, 4 to 6 days.Flood Stage: 40'Stage: 42.9'Forecast: expect to RISE to 43.0' by 7/15
Mississippi River, just south of ORCS, at Red River LandingReading: Mississippi River south of ORCS, after the diversion into the Atchafalaya Flood Stage: 48'Stage: 40.0'Forecast: expect to RISE to 41.7' by 7/15
Mississippi River at Baton RougeFlood Stage: 35'Stage: 24.2'Forecast: expect to RISE to 25.6' by 7/15
Mississippi River at New OrleansFlood Stage: 17'Stage: 8.5'Forecast: expect to FALL to 8.5' by 7/15
Atchafalaya River, just south of ORCS, at SimmesportReading: The combined latitudinal flows of the Red, Black, Ouachita, and ORCS flow from the Mississippi Flood Stage: 47'Stage: 19.54' Forecast: expect to RISE to 20.7' by 7/15
Atchafalaya River at MelvilleFlood Stage: 41'Stage: 14.79'Forecast: expect to RISE to 15.5' by 7/15
Atchafalaya River at Krotz SpringsFlood Stage: 37'Stage: 13.17'Forecast: expect to RISE to 13.6' by 7/15
Atchafalaya River above Butte LaroseFlood Stage: 25'Stage: 10.19'Forecast: expect to RISE to 10.5' by 7/15
Atchafalaya River at Bayou Sorrell Locks on the GIWWFlood Stage: 12'Stage: 6.7'Forecast: expect to RISE 6.9' by 7/15
Atchafalaya at Millet (Myette) PointFlood Stage: 15'Stage: 6.6'Forecast: expect to RISE to 6.9' by 7/15
Atchafalaya River at Morgan CityFlood Stage: 4'Stage: 3.91'Forecast: expect to FALL to 3.4' by 7/15NOTE: Gauge reading affected by ocean tides.Murphy Lake near Bayou SorrelStage: 11.83'
Lower Grand River at Bayou SorrelStage: 6.27'
Bayou CourtableauStage: 18.33'Buffalo Cove at Round IslandStage: 7.98'
Arm of Grand Lake near Crook CheneStage: 9.84'
Middle Fork, Bayou LongStage: 5.17'
Pontoon Bridge at Butte LaroseStage: 7.20'
Bayou Darby at Fausse Pt. CutStage: 14.46'
Lake Pelba at I-10, HendersonStage: 11.14'


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Have you ever considered paying off the mortgage on your home in two biweekly payments rather than one monthly payment? It might seem like this wouldn't make a difference, but the truth is that biweekly payments really do add up more quickly.
Since there are 52 weeks in a year you will end up making 26 payments in total – which is equal to 13 months rather than 12. This means that your mortgage will be paid off more quickly and you will save money on interest payments in the long run.
This arrangement might be the best for you when it comes to paying off your mortgage quickly and saving money, but it's important to consider the possible disadvantages before you make the decision.
Cons Of A Biweekly Mortgage Payment
- Often lenders do not offer biweekly services free of charge. You will be required to pay a registration fee as well as paying biweekly charges.
- If your budget doesn't allow the room to pay more toward your mortgage every year, this could be a foolish move. Don't neglect the importance of having an emergency savings fund or paying your bills.
- If you have your mortgage payment set up via direct debit from your bank account, taking out a payment every two weeks could catch you out if the funds are not there, especially if you are only paid once per month. This would result in charges for insufficient funds from both your lender and your bank.
Pros Of A Biweekly Mortgage Payment
- Some people find that paying their mortgage biweekly fits better into their budget because it's easier to plan for a smaller payment amount – especially if they are paid every two weeks.
- By shaving years off the length of your mortgage, you are reducing the amount of money you will pay over the long run.
- You will also be speeding up the time it takes to build equity in your home.
- You will be compelled to make an extra mortgage payment per year, enforcing good habits on yourself that will eventually pay off.
These are just a few factors to consider before deciding whether you should make biweekly payments on your mortgage. If you don't want to commit to biweekly payments on your home mortgage, you can always save up your money and make a lump sum payment at the end of the year.
For more tips and advice, feel free to reach out to your trusted mortgage professional today.


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Authorities have identified a Facebook post believed to have been made by the gunman who killed 12 people at a bar in California, a law enforcement official said.
Ian Long, 28, burst into the Borderline Bar & Grill in Thousand Oaks and opened fire with a Glock .45-caliber handgun as patrons line-danced late Wednesday night.
Long is believed to have posted the social media message around the time of the attack, according to the official, who is familiar with the investigation.
In it, the writer says: "I hope people call me insane ... (laughing emojis).. wouldn't that just be a big ball of irony? Yeah ... I'm insane, but the only thing you people do after these shootings is 'hopes and prayers'.. or 'keep you in my thoughts'... every time... and wonder why these keep happening. "
When CNN read the post to a friend of Long's, who did not want to be publicly identified, the friend said, "That does not sound like Ian to me at all. I don't know what was going through his head when he wrote this. It must have been terrible."
Hours after Long was found dead, apparently from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, police searched for clues at the home where he lived with his mother.
Long served in the Marines for nearly five years as a military machine gunner and was deployed to Afghanistan, Defense Department records show.
Police were called to his home in April for reports of a disturbance and a crisis team felt he might be suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, but they ultimately cleared him.
Authorities are working to piece together a timeline on the shooting. But they have said when they arrived at the scene, the suspect was still firing. Sheriff's Sgt. Ron Helus and a highway patrol officer rushed into the bar and exchanged gunfire with the shooter, Ventura County Sheriff Geoff Dean said.
Helus was fatally shot and an officer pulled him out and waited for reinforcements, he said.
Police waited close to 15 minutes, until the shots died down, and regrouped with more officers, Dean said. They went into the bar and found the shooter had fatally shot himself next to the bar entrance.
The scene was "like hell" when deputies arrived, Dean said. Police found patrons hiding in the attic. Some were so terrified, they asked officers to confirm they weren't the gunman, he said.


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We're sure you've heard by now that Google has decided to close its RSS feed aggregator service called Google Reader. We've got to remember to get our list of thousands of great hacking blog feeds off of there before it's gone. But just preserving the list is rather easy. [Paul Kerchen] has a bit different problem. He's got hundreds of articles starred and he wants to preserve a way to find those pages again. His solution was to write his own Python script to migrate starred Google Reader articles over to Evernote.
We're not here to promote the Evernote service. But just so we're on the same page, it's an archiving system that lets you save things like webpages and text documents for access on a wide range of different platforms. So all that really needs to happen is for [Paul] to get the list of links from his starred articles folder formatted for import on Evernote. It starts by using Google Takeout to download an archive of his account data. Within this dump is a JSON formatted file called 'starred.json'. His script parses the data and imports each article into Evernote. There's even rate limiting to manage the daily import maximum of free accounts.


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Everybody loves momos especially good, quality momos. Don't you just hate biting into a momo that says it's chicken but you bite into soyabean and it doesn't taste like chicken at all?
Lodhi Knights is a momo shop serving mouth-watering, Mughlai cuisine inspired momos that taste absolutely divine. All the sought after afghani and Mughlai dishes are encapsulated beautifully into tiny pockets of momos and they take you to heaven.
Lodhi knights is a take away fast food joint with little to no seating arrangements. There are a few tables available where you can put the food and eat, but they're mostly occupied. They have very recently shifted to a new location in shop number 119, Khanna market, Lodhi road.
Lodhi Knights serve few of the best tasting momos I have ever had in my life, their menu is elaborate and includes everything from Chicken Shawarma, to KFC style momos, chilly chicken momos to the simple steamed paneer momos, chicken changezi momos to Butter chicken momos. Since momos are one of the dearest street food one enjoys in Delhi, this place is one to try if you love having options. They also serve rolls, main course meals, soups, noodles and chicken and paneer tikkas as few of the starters.
I very recently had their butter chicken momos, chilly chicken momos, soya malai chaap roll and chicken shawarma. I have also had their chilly paneer momos, chicken and paneer steamed momos, KFC style(kurkure)paneer momos, chicken and paneer tandoori momos among many others that I can't even recall. Their momos and rolls and shawarmas are all accompanied with mint chutney, mayonnaise and red chilli chutney. Their food is always well seasoned and bursting with flavours.
They are pricier than your roadside momo stalls but Lodhi Knights also serve much more quality products. The sizes of their momos are also larger than the average 50 rupees momos, per plate. Their steamed variants start from rupees 50, the Mughlai momos cost around 150 per plate, the tandoori momos cost an average 100, the rolls range from 80 rupees to 140 rupees.
The new shop is open from 11 am till 11 pm, but unforturnetly their service is not very prompt, and you'll have to wait a couple of minutes if you order dishes like KFC momos and chilly chicken momos since they make it fresh. Dishes like chicken shawarma , steamed momos and tandoori momos are served within 5 minutes. They earlier even had complaints regarding their timings, as the shop claimed to open at 5 pm but it hardly ever did. But with the new location, that issue has been rectified.
This place is a must try, it takes you on a tasty journey, their food is tasty and the flavours are beautiful. Lodhi Knights is a must for all momo lovers and all Mughlai cuisine enthusiasts, and it's better if you're both.


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Marshall Bernadotte, 1810
- Regular price
- £1,200
- Sale price
- £1,200
- Regular price
- Unit price
- /per
Adding product to your cart
Date: Early 20th Century
Height: 29 cm (11.5 in)
Of the numerous European porcelain factories that produced military figures during the 19th and 20th centuries, Sachsische Porzellan Manufaktur Dresden (the Dresden factory) stands out as the finest producer in terms of sculpting and painting.
The factory was founded in 1872 by Carl Thieme, an antiques dealer and porcelain retailer who employed porcelain workers from the bankrupt Buxdorf manufactory. By the 1890's it was under the management of Karl August Kuntzsch, a talented modeller and employee of the Thieme family. Kuntzsch introduced the factory's wares to foreign markets and it was under his tenure that the production of military figures began in 1912, with the series of French Napoleonic subjects, the first of these being an equestrian figure of Napoleon (an example of which may be seen at Winston Churchill's former home, Chartwell in Kent). However, owing to the antipathy between France and Germany arising from the war of 1870, these early pieces were often marked underneath with the signature of the French Imperial Sevres factory, presumably at the insistence of French retailers to disguise their German origins. In 1913 a series of Italian historical and military figures followed.
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Between 1912 and 1914, with the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo approaching, the London retailer Thomas Goode & Co., of Mayfair planned to offer a series of figures representing the British regiments of Wellington's allied army. A number of these specially marked, and now rare figures were imported from Saxony into England prior to the Waterloo centenary, but with the outbreak of war in August 1914 steps were taken by Goode and other retailers to disguise the German origins of these figures by covering Dresden factory marks or ascribing them to English porcelain manufacturers, such as the ceramic manufacturer Copeland Spode, which produced a parallel if marginally inferior series of British figures at that time.
At the start of the First World War, the Dresden factory continued its production of military porcelain figures with the introduction of German subjects to emphasize the Prussian martial tradition and the German contribution to the Grand Alliance against Napoleon.
There appear to have been no additions to the military figures until 1929 when the factory's chief sculptor, Reinhold Braunschmitt introduced the series representing the uniforms of the three senior regiments of British Foot Guards from 1660 to 1930. It has been suggested that these figures were the result of a collaboration between Major E.G. Christie-Miller (1880-1967) and Karl August Kuntzsch's two sons who succeeded him in running the factory in 1920. Christie-Miller was a Coldstream Guards officer with a strong sense of regimental tradition. He was a prisoner of war from 1914 to 18 and upon his release had been commissioned to tour the country and report on conditions in Germany. Accordingly his command of German allowed him to fully communicate his ideas to Braunschmitt and his superiors. The results of their efforts were a fine range of Guards figures for retailer Fortnum & Mason, which may be seen as the high water mark of their military figure production.
The success of these figures resulted in the creation of a further range of figures for the British market designed by Braunschmitt and fellow sculptors Josef Dobner and Fritz Schlesinger (fl. 1928-38), and reflecting the history of the Royal Navy during the 18th and 19th centuries. The coronation of George VI in 1937 provided the Kuntzsch brothers with a substantial order from the British court for their traditional wares and corresponding additions to the existing range of military and ceremonial figures. These included officers of the Life Guards, Royal Horse Guards, Irish Guards, Welsh Guards, Ulster King of Arms, and members of the Honourable Corps of Gentleman-at-Arms and the Royal Company of Archers (Sovereign's Bodyguard for Scotland). However state interference in all areas of economic production impacted on the factory in 1936 when the use of gold was disallowed on the edges of cups, bowls, boxes, vases and presumably all military figures. An inconspicuous gold-brown color was used as a substitute, which has been seen on French Napoleonic figures.
After 1945, Emil Alfred Kuntzsch slowly restarted production, but came under pressure from Communist officials to submit the business to state ownership. His resistance resulted in his arrest on trumped up charges of criminal economic activity in 1950. The factory was held in trust until 1971 when it became part of a group of state controlled manufacturers. Lack of direct contact with informed retailers in the U.K. and the passing of the skilled military figure painters who had worked at the factory in the heyday of the 1930's coincided with a general decline in the standards of production. In 1972 a number of British military figure moulds, including those of the Guards and Waterloo series' were dispersed to the neighbouring Sitzendorf factory. Sitzendorf's output, however, varied widely in quality and style of painting, in the cutting of details and fitting of accoutrements, such as sword blades, scabbards, and plumes.