text:
Blended learning has quickly become a popular teaching strategy in career and technical education (CTE).
Blended learning combines multiple teaching techniques, learning styles, and delivery methods.
It's a great way to overcome common challenges you face in the classroom, such as student engagement and diverse student needs.
However, knowing how to turn your existing class into a blended environment isn't an easy task. Especially for a CTE teacher who has little teaching experience and no one to turn to with questions.
So how can you use blended learning in your classroom?
These 6 blended learning strategies will help you create the perfect learning environment:
Now that you know what the strategies are, let's dig into how you can use each one!
Blended learning requires you to use different types of instructional materials and resources. While it may be tempting to stick to your main textbook, you'll need more than that to shake up your classroom!
By using several resources, blended learning will come naturally and easily. Along with your textbook, try supplementing your lessons with digital curriculum, free resources from the Internet, eBooks, and test prep materials.
A typical day in a blended classroom could look like this:
Each day will be a little bit different as you mix up the use of each resource. Some concepts may be best taught from a textbook, while others are better covered by a digital curriculum.
Finding which materials work for which topics is just the first step!
Since CTE courses have both standard lessons and lab work for learning skills, you have an opportunity to try a few extra things with technology.
Some topics can best be taught by showing a video, such as how blood travels through the body. After that, you could instruct your health class to discuss the video online through social media or a digital teaching tool you have.
You could also try using a mobile app or interactive game if one fits your courses. Quizlet and Kahoot! are two popular options many CTE teachers are embracing.
However you decide to include technology, keep in mind that it should have an applicable purpose to your classroom.
Don't add it just to have it!
If you're new to blended learning, you have a golden opportunity to use different teaching techniques to help your students. You may be surprised to see your students' reactions to a new technique!
One approach to try is differentiating your lessons. Differentiated instruction is a more specific technique of varying your instruction to meet the needs of your individual students. With differentiation, you could have three versions of a lesson based on students' performance in the classroom.
Another great teaching technique is flipping the classroom. In essence, flipped learning means students do typical classroom work at home. This leaves class time open for teacher-led discussions, projects, and hands-on skill work.
While trying a new method like flipped learning can be intimidating, many CTE teachers have great success with it! You can too — all you have to do is start!
While new techniques is an important blended learning strategy, don't dump your old ones! Student-centered techniques are a must, but you're still the most important person in the classroom.
Traditional lectures still have a place in a blended classroom. A lecture with an accompanying PowerPoint presentation is a great way to introduce a new concept before you try flipping or differentiating the class.
Also, a good classroom discussion is an irreplaceable part of an effective classroom. Your students can explore a topic more in-depth with a discussion that you facilitate.
While it's not exactly a teaching strategy, varied assessments are crucial to successful blended learning. If you plan to mix up your instructional materials and teaching style, it's only natural to mix up how you measure student comprehension.
So how can you add more variety to your assessments? Here are a few ideas:
Another blended learning strategy to explore is mixing up how group work is done in (and out) of the classroom.
If your students are working on a group project such as a presentation, have them start out meeting up in class. Once the groups are settled, encourage them to use tools like Google Apps for collaborating outside class time.
By including online collaboration for group work and discussions, you provide a different way for students to interact with each other. Plus, online collaboration is an important skill they will need once they are out in the working world.
Now that you have some ideas for blending your classroom, how can you apply them?
At Applied Educational Systems, we provide digital curriculum to be used in a blended learning classroom.
The programs are for health science, business education, computer applications, and career readiness courses. With each program, you get a blended learning resource that's easy and effective.
Learn more about our programs and how they can help you with blended learning!


text: Vastavam web: Young and talented filmmaker Krish delivered some sensible films in his career. When he was busy with his Bollywood film Manikarnika, the ace director has been asked to direct the prestigious biopic of NTR. Manikarnika which is in final stages of shoot. Manikarnika is the life story of Jhansi Laxmibhai and Kangana Ranaut is playing the title role. Krish is in touch with the team on regular basis and is monitoring the happenings. While NTR has been slated for January 9th 2019 release, Manikarnika will release on January 25th 2019. Krish is in plans to wrap up the principle shoot of NTR by the end of November.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Cool thnkas everboydy, GUess I have lots of reading now yay..... mergh.
XD though does any one have any shrot hand notes about increasing the strength of solonoinds?
This question was longer but this is the third time I'm trying to post it internet problems XD SO i guess if you need more info I can provide more.
Any way I was wondering if anyone had any tips for making stronger electro magnets and solenoids. I want to make some that can lift and move like 5 pounds, I have no idea if this is a lot or not so if it's unrealistic... woops.
Any way for the magnet I've been using nails I could find around the house, C batteries and magnet wire I got from radio shack, and the solenoid I use the same power and wires but I took apart some random free pen form a gym and use a random long screw that only had threads around the tip and sorta wiggled around inside the pen case. In both cases they only could hold up or move about 8 ounces. any ideas on making them stronger? or am I just being unrealistic?
Cool thnkas everboydy, GUess I have lots of reading now yay..... mergh.
XD though does any one have any shrot hand notes about increasing the strength of solonoinds?
Here's a link to a free book on the subject at Google Books.:
Brilliant find. One to keep ! Well done.
+1 Wow! Nice one. And it's copyright-free and downloadable. Lemee see if I can make that link easier:
Underhill, Charles Reginald. Solenoids, electromagnets and electromagnetic windings. (c) 1910 D. Van Nostrad Company
For more strength, you need more of everything else;
More current, more wire wrapped around the core, and a thicker core.
Start with a lump of iron half an inch or an inch thick, and as many hundreds of turns of wire as you can manage,
Need a larger iron core, more turns of wire and a larger power source.


text:
May 14, 2017
Employment Law Alert
Employment Law Alert
Author(s): Christopher G. Gegwich, Christopher J. Moro
NYC employers take notice! The New York City Council's legislation preventing employers from inquiring into an applicant's salary history takes effect on October 31, 2017.
Late last month, we reported on the New York City Council's passing of legislation to amend the New York City Human Rights Law to make it an unlawful discriminatory practice for employers to inquire about an applicant's salary history or to base compensation decisions on prior salary history.[1] On May 4, 2017, Mayor Bill de Blasio signed that bill into law making it effective on October 31, 2017.
Employers with four or more employees operating in New York City should immediately review their employment applications and hiring policies and practices to ensure compliance with this new law before its effective date. The passage of this law is also notable for employers outside NYC, as this may signal a developing trend across the country. Massachusetts and the City of Philadelphia have already passed similar laws, and bills to the same effect are currently pending in the United States House of Representatives and many other state legislatures. As a result, employers across the country should keep a watchful eye on pending legislation to see if their law makers will be the next to impose similar restrictions on the interview and hiring process.
The foregoing has been prepared for the general information of clients and friends of the firm. It is not meant to provide legal advice with respect to any specific matter and should not be acted upon without professional counsel. If you have any questions or require any further information regarding these or other related matters, please contact your regular Nixon Peabody LLP representative. This material may be considered advertising under certain rules of professional conduct.
NP Privacy Partner | 06.22.17


text:
There's a new Case File #262 over at CSI: Color, Stories, Inspiration and you have until the end of September to solve it and be in with a chance of winning one of the fabulous prizes on offer. Here's a quick look at the Case File ...
- Scheme: all the colours are included, and I threw in a splash of the aqua blue.
- Evidence: stripes, dots, insects, swirls, Perfect Pearl drops, hearts, flowers, leaves, layered/dimensional stickers, bow, buttons.
- Testimony: I wrote my journaling in cursive around the edge of the page.


text:
TDG40-Portable Line Boring Machine Tools for Heavy Equipment
TDG40 Line Boring is mainly used in processing inner hole, concentric holes with space and ending pipe. it with very lightweight and modular design, so it can be adapted to variety of the narrow space、high-altitude complex processing needs. This machine with powerful machining capacity which widely service for many fields, repairing holes in heavy construction equipment, such as cranes, excavators,bulldozers, tractors, backhoes etc.
● Modular components make setup quick and easy
● Flexible and high quality design, aluminum alloy frame make the machine portable
● Optional facer tool make the machine more versabile
● Spherical bearing mounts system allow quick setup
● Gear box allow manual and automatic feed
Drive power can include:
Could use on repairing the inner wall of the pipes,crane rotary holes,stern shaft holes and rudder holes and so on.
TDG40 --Electric motor
Technical Details:
Boring bar
Boring diameter
Boring rpm
Electric Motor
Axial Feed Travel
Feed Rate
Shipping Weight
Single phase,220V,1250W
Note: 1.Electric Motor, Elbenstock ,Made in Germany.Two kinds of power:1250W,
2. Axial Feed Travel can be customized, but Max is 500mm
FACING HEAD (optional)
BORE MEASURING TOOL(optional)
Part Number: 40T-100V-15
● Steel stainless
● Used to measuring cutting tool out the length of boring bar
Part Number: 40T-110V-15
● Digital calipers
● Used to measuring cutting tool out the length of boring bar
● Fit to 40mm bar
DTH is a professional exporter of TDG40 portable boring machine, which is also known as one of the most credible such manufacturers and suppliers. You can rest assured to buy or wholesale customized tdg40 portable boring machine which is made in China at low price with our factory.


text:
Social network for pugs and their people.
This is a group for people to discuss their love of pugs & coffee! I, personally, love to drink my coffee while holding my puggies, Pippin & Princess, in my lap.
Members: 67
Latest Activity: Sep 13, 2015
Started by Betsy McFadden. Last reply by Betsy McFadden Aug 21, 2010. 6 Replies 0 Likes
Do you like the Autumn Harvest Blend coffee Julie? That sounds really good!
I have never had a Pod bust on me! Thankfully!!
Oscar started chewing on his paws this weekend so I guess it's time to get his medicine filled for the season!! If his paws get too raw I have a spray that the vet recommended...I just spray it on his paws!
Hi Selina, Hektor is not fond of green beans, I have resorted to them when I have run out of Broccoli or Cauliflower. He struggles to eat them, I expect I should cut them up smaller? I think Hektor is slightly seasonal but I cannot take him off the antihistamine at all. I seem to have some of the yeast problems under control. I have a friend with a young Labrador who has similar to Oscar and I put her onto Athletes foot cream, must have Micanozle (sp) in it, if he licks you may have to prevent it until it dries in. It did help her. The worst thing is when like young Rio she had cortisone injections and that is a life shortening thing. I have managed Hektor for around five years now without resort to this.
One thing I do not need is bottled water, we live in a soft water area, so our water is not a problem, considering it is falling out of the sky relentlessly this year. I will have to use my Tassimo a bit more but I am fed up with the pods bursting,
Well Oscar loves cucumber, too! I have never heard they can't have it so I let him have a slice everytime I put it in my salad. Both Oscar and Tiny love green beans. My friend that works at a vet office told me green beans are a good, healthy treat for dogs and since both my puggies are overweight, it's a good treat for them!
Oscar has allergies, too, Helena. They are seasonal. When they start to bother him he chews his paws until they are raw. He gets prednisone but he hasn't had it this year because he hasn't been chewing too much.
For my coffee I use pods, especially in the mornings because it is fast but I prefer to make mine in the coffee pot. I just have a Cuisinart coffee pot that makes really good coffee. I also use bottled water in both my Keurig and my Cuisinart. I think it tastes better and it keeps your coffee pot from getting a bunch of build up. I agree Helena, sometimes the pods are not strong enough...it seems like it's hit and miss. Sometimes they taste really good and sometimes they taste like hot water!
Hi Selina and Julie, so sorry got distracted recently and kept seeing the reminder on my e-mails and forgetting to come on here.
Selina on the allergy thing, Hektor is on Antihistamine (Piriton) here, has been for years, I tried recently to take him off but he was scratching worse than ever. I had him on an oil which was supposed to help but the one thing is did was put on weight, so it has gone. He is on a restricted diet which is cooked chicken and broccoli or raw beef and broccoli, his other thing these days is he had a some thing called Chicken fillets for coat and skin. It is a small piece of roasted chicken with a strip which contains flax oil, he loves them gets two a day and depending on how he is feeling he has some little rawhide chews which are in the form of small bones with a little bit of similar chicken interleaved and we cut them in half for him.
I do not give Hektor fruit, he has a yeast problem and anything sweet adds to the problem. poor wee soul cannot have even carrots because of it but boy he will kill for cucumber. You cannot stop him with it, he would tear the house down for the stuff.I was going to ask you ladies how you make your coffee. I have used any amount of coffee making equipment from filter to percolator to espresso maker to pod, I ended up with an Italian stove top coffee maker and only resorted to the Tassimo Coffee maker (pod) when I thought I could not get one to use on my induction hob, I had the aluminium one but I did end up with a Stainless Steel one so back to that. Now my Tassimo, I have lost count of the number of Pods which have exploded and they are not cheap and the coffee is not all that strong, well not for me.
Selina, grapes are a no no and even apple cores but you would have to feed loads, apple seeds have a small amount of arsenic in them.
Haha that's so funny!! Do anybody else's Pugs love fruit? Oscar and Tiny Girl love any kind of fruit but I only let them have watermelon now because I heard other fruits were dangerous, especially grapes! Oscar also love cucumbers!
I like sweet coffee sometimes but I usually just add regular sugar and some half/half creamer. That's when Tiny Girl likes to stick her little nose in my cup haha. I have tried those syrups but I find that if I use a sweetner, I also need a cream to balance it out. Most days though I just drink it black.
Oscar has allergies, too. They are seasonal but I'll start to notice him really chewing on his paws and that's when I know it's time to start his medicine! Is Hektor on something for allergies Helena?
We do not get too much flavoured coffee here but what is happening is we get a lot of syrups which are flavoured. Now if you like sweet coffee which I don't you add it. I noticed there is a caramel one on sale at our local version of Wallmart.
I made the mistake of buying French variety of coffee but had to add my own personal coffee to being it into drinkable. I also have Espresso Coffee beans which I grind when I want a really strong cup.
Hektor loves the smell of coffee, I know I watch his little nose twitch, I have never given him any primarily I was never sure if it was safe and with his allergies I just felt he was safer without stimulation.
That is my fall favorite,well our fall favorite lol,i enjoy sitting on my back deck and enjoying a cup and listening to a pug boy cry lol,he has a fit until he gets some.


text: SODA Bloc is a top fashion store for boys and girls between the young ages of nine and 16. Fun, fashion and keeping up with the trends are what make the in-store SODA Bloc experience one for the books. They give power to the youth in store through their mobile SODA Beats app where kids can control the music, free wifi for customers and charging stations to keep them connected. Make sure you don't miss out and visit their store in the Canal Walk Shopping Centre.


text:
Last week, the annual Trees for Georgetown tree planting took place. You may have noticed seeing a brand new tree on your block (there are about five within a block of GM). Now it's up to you to make sure it survives.
This year the group planted 70 trees, which is a bit more than last year. Of the trees GM noticed, he saw London planes, a swamp oak, a white birch, a cypress tree, a linden tree and a rubber tree. On his own block there is a London plane, which replaced a maple that was cut down last year.
Neither Trees for Georgetown nor the city is going to provide the care necessary to make sure these new trees survive. That is entirely up to the residents who live near the tree. So if there is a new tree on your block, make sure somebody adopts it (or just adopt it yourself). The crucial goal is this: 25 to stay alive. In other words, the new tree needs 25 gallons of water every week to survive. If you don't have a hose bib on the front of your house and can't water the tree yourself, try to find a neighbor who can, or who will let you use their spigot.
But don't start watering it yet. Wait until the leaves come out, then start. It's easiest to purchase a gator bag and fill it once a week. Keep doing this until the leaves fall in the autumn. Then do it again next year. And the next. And the next. And probably the next, although at that point the roots ought to be deep enough. Nonetheless, even then if a hot and dry spell hits, you ought to water the tree again.
It will pay you back! GM started caring for a London plane on his block in 2013. It only had a diameter of about three inches at the time and was only about 12 feet tall. Five years later and the trunk is almost a foot in diameter and the tree is at least thirty feet tall. Trees take patience but not really that much.


text:
According to The Hollywood Reporter, that number matches what Chris Evans and Chris Hemsworth made for Captain America: Civil War and Thor: Ragnarok respectively.
Avengers 4 fan theories have been doing the rounds online non-stop since the credits finally stopped rolling on Infinity War, but there was always one that stood out - that of the surviving Avengers using the Quantum Realm to defeat Thanos.
Johnasson's first standalone film salary is higher than some of her other MCU co-stars, as Robert Downey Jr., for example, "took home $500,000 for the first Iron Man". For comparison to relatively new Avengers, Chadwick Boseman was reportedly paid $2 million for Black Panther and Brie Larson $5 million for Captain Marvel - though it's worth noting that Marvel has been notoriously stingy on acting contracts in the past for first-time supers.
Australian filmmaker Cate Shortland is set to direct the Black Widow movie from a script by Jac Schaeffer.
Whatever the actual numbers, Marvel clearly spends a large chunk of money on its talent - which it is able to do when their films are consistent smash hits.
Selena Gomez receiving treatment after suffering emotional breakdown
She also visited Lovato in the hospital before her own downward spiral began again. She is now believed to be receiving psychiatric care somewhere on the east coast.
THR points out that the high salaries are just a small dent in the box office grosses for these films: Each "Avengers" film has easily made more than $1 billion worldwide, and "Infinity War" crossed the $2 billion mark.
A culmination of 22 interconnected films the fourth installment of the Avengers saga will draw audiences to witness the turning point of this epic journey. A brief glimpse of Captain America's white suit can also be seen to the lower right of the image.
Comic Book Movie reports that "Avengers 4 merchandise leaked online featuring a look at Thor and Rocket decked out in brand new costumes", as well as a description of the tie-in.
Avengers 4 is scheduled to be released in theaters on May 3, 2019.


text:
Tiny Vellum pad; Tombow Fudenosuke Brush Pen (hard tip), Pitt brush pen
Archives for the month of: February, 2018
After a full day in the city I got the Bright Idea that, instead of running for the train which would leave in a couple of minutes, I should take out some CHARCOAL (!) and sketch the commuters leaning against the big new pharmacy in the station. I was happy with the drawing but got another Bright Idea. At home I fixed the sketch with a spritz of hair spray and then re-sketched using an ink marker. Happier.
Sketched from direct observation, reworked at home.
Stillman and Birn Beta Series sketchbook; charcoal, Higgins Black Magic Ink marker; Pitt Brush pens; Tombow Fudenosuke Brush Pen (hard tip).


text:
Dissolution of Extended-Family Households in Northern Orkney, Scotland, 1851-1901
Julia A. Jennings, Pennsylvania State University
Corey S. Sparks, University of Texas at San Antonio
James W. Wood, Pennsylvania State University
Patricia L. Johnson, Pennsylvania State University
Timothy M. Murtha, Pennsylvania State University
Stephen Matthews, Pennsylvania State University
Historical demographers usually identify extended households as those in which more than one married couple occupy a single domicile. In some rural areas, however, it may be more important that they co-reside on a single farmstead and share the minimal resources needed to run the farm, even if living in separate houses. By this definition, we have found frequencies of household extension in Orkney, Scotland (1851-1901), ranging from 3-38%, depending on island and period. Why are extended households common in Orkney and, if household extension is advantageous, why is it not even more common? We consider Hammel's suggestion (Proc Nat Acad Sci 102:7043-6, 2005) that household extension may dampen unfavorable fluctuations in household consumer/producer ratios by combining nuclear families at differing phases of their life cycles, but include another important limiting factor: as households become more extended, they become larger and need more land.
See paper
Presented in Session 120: Historical Demography


text: Welcome to Essence Condos! Brand new 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, with 2 Parking Stalls luxury condo in the heart of the Lower Mission! Mid-Century Colour Pallette. Youll instantly fall in love with the bright, open concept kitchen, living and dining room which has access to the nearly 500 sq ft deck with south east exposure and views of the Okanagan Valley and Mission Park Greenway. Step into the master oasis with huge windows, a walk through his & her closet and stunning ensuite with double sinks, shower and bath tub. High end finishings include 9 ceilings, oversized windows fitted with Hunter Douglas blinds, quartz counters throughout and high end appliances. This unit also includes a storage unit and 2 parking stalls, one in the heated parkade and one outside. Each unit at Essence has individually controlled heating/cooling systems, in suite laundry, incredible sound proofing and every single piece of lumber in the building has been treated with fire retardant product. Amenities include bike storage, a fitness room, entertainment/owners lounge and a 2nd floor terrace perfect for entertaining larger groups! Essence Condos is just steps away from the Eldorado, gorgeous beaches, the Mission Park Greenway, shopping and restaurants. Show Suite By Appointment Only during COVID-19 Crisis. See 3-D Tour of Show Suite #502 under Media link for example of the amazing design and finishes. Call: Saskia Dover (250) 808-7522 for your private tour! (id:34291)


text:
Self care...what's that, then? Is it being self-centred and careless of others? Some might say so; after all, we are generally conditioned always to think of others before ourselves and of course there are times when this is a right and generous thing to do.
BUT, if we're always putting others first and neglecting ourselves, a time will come when we become ill, feel angry and resentful or are simply too tired to function. And almost certainly along the way we will have lost any sense of who we truly are.
Practising self-care should help to avert such crises without meaning that you never offer a helping hand again. What self-care means exactly varies from person to person but, broadly, it's doing something to look after yourself and/or to bring you joy and this means knowing what you need; you have to learn to listen to your inner voice. Counsellors are taught to take self care very seriously because, if they aren't on form, they can't help those who come to them in need. To put this into perspective, you could look at this as a parallel with the safety instructions you're given before take-off on a flight; if the oxygen masks drop, adults are told to put their own masks on before helping children to do so. Why? Same reason; the adult needs to be functioning properly in order to be able to help the child.
Conclusion? Self care is actually another way we can be of good service to others. Happily, it involves being good to ourselves along the way!
Do you need to take better care of yourself by sharing something on your mind? Arrange an initial appointment with a counsellor. You have nothing to lose.
Counselling Directory is not responsible for the articles published by members. The views expressed are those of the member who wrote the article.
About Caroline Le Vine
Scary, isn't it, admitting you need some help and then having to find someone to help you?Making contact with a therapist for the first time is a brave step into the unknown and I welcome and applaud you for getting even this far down the track. Most don't even make it here. I very much hope you'll find what you need either in my profile or elsewhere. Maybe you'd like things to c… Read more
Located in Warminster.
Can also offer telephone / online appointments.
To book an appointment, please get in contact:


text:
LakeSide Mercedes Repair
- 7390 Southwest Bonita Road
- 1
- Tigard, OR 97224 | View Map
- (503) 620-8021
- http://www.lakesidemercedesrepair.com/
Business Description:
- LakeSide Mercedes Repair is your factory trained, independent, Mercedes Benz maintenance and repair specialist serving the Greater Portland area.
- auto repair & service
- Request an appointment
Bill's Review
I'll Continue Using Them!
Lakeside Mercedes Repair is excellent. I took my car in recently and the whole experience was pretty good. I liked how they explained things. I was aware and informed of what was going on. The projected cost was in line with the final bill, which I appreciated. I've used many such services in the past, and in my experience, you never quite know how it is until you drive away with your car. These people have done a good job and everything's good right now. I'm confident that they have done everything right. This was my second experience with them, but I'm happy enough that I'll continue to go to them.


text: Hi, this is Wayne from Sears PartsDirect. Today we're going to talk about motor and travel problems that prevent your garage door opener from moving the garage door. On this type of motor unit that has a single LED light, the light will flash 5 times to indicate one of these problems: garage door travel


text:
June 3, 1885, Swan, Texas.
August 17, 1987, Gunter, Texas.
Forest Park Cemetery, Greenville, Texas.
Tillit was the son of Theodore Frelinghuysen Teddlie and Sarah Ann Porter. He married twice, to Naomi Sisco-Weston (1961) and Edna Pearl Webb.
Teddlie came from a family of musicians. He was especially inspired by Franklin Eiland, and studied at North Texas State University (now the University of North Texas, Denton, Texas) with his oldest brother, James Teddlie, A. H. Cook, and Dr. Herbert.
He began song writing around age 20, but his career of music evangelism began in earnest in 1917. He wrote about 100 songs in his lifetime, and was an active singing teacher and publisher.


text:
Everyone must stay at home to help stop the spread of coronavirus.
You should only leave the house for very limited purposes:
Important - These reasons are exceptions – even when doing these activities, you should be minimising time spent outside of the home and ensuring you are 2 metres apart from anyone outside of your household.
There is separate advice about staying at home if:
Do not leave your home if you have either:
To protect others, do not go to places like a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. Stay at home.
Use the 111 online coronavirus service to find out what to do.
Only call 111 if you cannot get help online.
Read general information such as:
Heady Hill Surgery, 114-116 Bury New Road, Heywood, OL10 4RGTel: 01706 622600
If you require any vaccinations relating to foreign travel you need to make an appointment with the practice nurse to discuss your travel arrangements. This will include which countries and areas within countries that you are visiting to determine what vaccinations are required.
Information about countries and vaccinations required can be found on the links below:
It is important to make the initial appointment as early as possible - at least 6 weeks before you travel - as a second appointment will be required with the practice nurse to actually receive the vaccinations. These vaccines have to be ordered as they are not a stock vaccine. Your second appointment needs to be at least 2 weeks before you travelto allow the vaccines to work.
Travel Health Questionnaire
To help us offer the appropriate advice, please fill out the online form before coming to see the nurse.
Travel Questionnaire
Copyright 2006 - 2020 My Surgery Website | Privacy & Usage | Edit | Staff Home | Site Map | Accessibility | Site T&C's | Service T&C's


text:
about the myth | about the animation | storyboard | music | vase details | further reading | follow-up activities
This animation is based on the myth of Medusa.
The story was developed by pupils from Addington School in Reading for the Ure Discovery project.
It's made from three classical vases.
about the myth
The three Gorgons looked so horrific that anyone who saw them turned to stone. Sthenno and Euryale were immortal, but their sister, Medusa, wasn't. In Apollodorus' version of their myth, Medusa was beheaded when Perseus attacked her in her sleep (using a reflection to avoid looking at her directly). The winged horse, Pegasus, was born from her blood (later to have adventures with Bellerophon), while her head continued to have petrifying power (Apollodorus, Library 2.4.2-4). Gorgons were very popular in archaic art, often appearing on vases and in sculptural features on temples. Their fearsome appearance made them apotropaic – they could ward off evil. They were also used to decorate the shields of many warriors. The ancient Greek word for 'rock' was 'petra' from which the English word 'petrify' is derived – certainly appropriate for this myth.
about the animation
This gorgon is much smaller than the ancient Greeks' idea of the gorgons; she's tiny so that she fits into the cup. That aside, the story in this animation is very much in the spirit of the ancient myth. The unsuspecting passer-by is literally petrified by the appearance of the gorgon and the warrior is only able to defeat her by ducking his head behind his shield and cutting her head off. The pupils at Addington School were very creative in their use of perspective. Instead of keeping to a single camera view, they used multiple angles, showing both the outside of the vase and the view of the inside that the passer-by has when he lifts it. By making us see from this character's perspective, this view gives us a greater sense of his shock when the gorgon appears.
© The Trustees of the British Museum, 1849,0620.5
The vase this animation is primarily made from features only the head of the gorgon, not her full body. The body which you see is based on other ancient gorgon vase images, such as this one from the British Museum (left). The wings in particular are distinctive and common features in gorgon representations.
The gorgon's victim is a figure from a second vase. His tunic is made from the throw over his arm, based on contemporary depictions of male clothing.
Look for him in the Ure Discovery animation, Eros & Aphrodite.
The warrior is from a third vase - a lekanis from the island of Euboea (Ure Museum 56.8.8).
He appears in Combat and Hoplites! Greeks at War.
Addington school pupils' storyboard compared frame-by-frame with the animation
The track on this animation is called Dithyrambos, which is a term referring to a sort of choral song to Dionysus. It was chosen because its rising rattling sounds suit the gradual appearance of the Medusa snakes. The track was created by ancient music specialist Professor Conrad Steinmann of Melpomen. Find out more about ancient music through our blog post on the subject and our interview with Prof. Steinmann.
vase details
Attic, black figure short-stem kylix cup featuring a central Gorgon image. Late Archaic, c.525-500. Ure Museum (accession number 39.9.3). The kylix is a broad, shallow drinking vessel, they were used for drinking wine at symposiums.
© Ure Museum (39.9.3)
© Musée du Louvre
This archaic black figure vase shows Heracles fighting the giant Geryones, who has a gorgon head on his shield. This vase is housed in the Louvre (vase F53).
On this classical red figure vase by the Pan Painter, we can see Medusa's wings spread out and her head in Perseus' bag. (BM: 1873_0820_352)
© The Trustees of the British Museum
further reading
W. Burkert, The Orientalizing Revolution (HUP, 1992)
M. Garber & N.J. Vickers (eds.), The Medusa Reader (Routledge, 2003)
(a selection of literature featuring Medusa from across the ages)
M. Jameson, 'Perseus, The Hero of Mykenai,' in Celebrations of Death and Divinity in the Bronze Age Argolid,
ed. R. Hägg & G. Nordquist (1990) pp.213-230
D. Ogden, Perseus, (Routledge, 2008) (a great introduction to the Medusa myths)
S. R. Wilk, Medusa: Solving the Mystery of the Gorgon (OUP, 2000)
follow-up activities
1) See what stylistic differences your pupils can identify between the first man who appears (from a 5th century, Attic, red figure vase) and the hoplite soldier who comes on afterwards (from an archaic, Euboean, black figure vase).
2) Explain to your pupils that the English word 'petrify', meaning 'paralysed with fear or astonishment', literally means 'turn to stone or rock', from the ancient Greek word 'pétra' or rather 'πέτρα' meaning 'rock'. What other Greek words do they know through English?
3) Watch the animation together and look at other images of gorgons from vases and statuary. Now ask your pupils to storyboard their own version of the gorgon myth. Ask them to consider which part of the myth they would like to focus on – Medusa with her sisters? A gorgon petrifying a victim? Perseus' attack on Medusa or the birth of Pegasus? or perhaps Medusa's petrifying head being pulled from Perseus' bag? Will they show the whole scene? Will they use close-ups? Which are the most important aspects to show?
4) Compare this Medusa with the gorgon in The Symposium animation. The Symposium page also contains a gorgon drawing activity sheet.
Ure Discovery
Ure Discovery was an innovative Arts Council funded project run at the University of Reading's Ure Museum of Greek Archaeology in 2013.
Steve worked with staff and students at the University of Reading helping local secondary school groups interpret and respond to the Ure Museum collection.
The pupils created stories, storyboards, and other artwork based on a selection of vases and each storyboard was transformed into an animation made from images of the vase which inspired it. Ancient art, digital artistry, and teenage imagination combine to retell ancient myths and present new stories. The Ure Discovery and Ure View animations can be seen alongside their vases via a tablet trail that visitors can take around the museum.
Except where otherwise noted, content on www.panoply.org.uk by S.Simons & S.Nevin is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.
Click here to read our Privacy Policy.


text:
The vegetation types usually considered as 'typically Mediterranean' are the evergreen and sclerophyllous shrublands or heathlands, named maquis and garrigue in the Mediterranean Basin, chaparral in California, matorral in Chile, fynbos in SW Africa, kwongan and mallee in SW Australia. But there exists considerable differences in the composition and structure of these shrublands (Table 1). Depending on the type of shrubland chosen, it is possible to find strong similarities or dissimilarities, between and within the diverse Mediterranean ecore-gions. The similarity most frequently cited is that between kwongan and fynbos which show a striking ecological convergence with an open shrub cover and a high shrub diversity with the quasi-absence of annuals, a dominance of postfire seeders, and serotinous shrubs, and the frequent occurrence of seed dispersal by ants (myrme-cochory). Shrublands occur generally in a mosaic with xerophytic grasslands, steppes, woodlands, or forests.
True Mediterranean forests are rare and they represent 1.8% of world's forest area. Northern Hemisphere Mediterranean forests show a higher structural and species diversity than those of the Southern Hemisphere, because the latter cover less extensive areas and, as in South Africa, may be outside the range of Mediterranean bioclimate. The Southern Cape forests are very patchy with mainly subtropical sclerophyllous trees and conifers (Afrocarpus, Podocarpus). Forests of Mediterranean Chile are more diverse due to the strong latitudinal gradient and the increase in rainfall from north to south; semiarid Acacia caven and Prosopis chilensis forests in the north are succeeded by subtropical broad-leaved and sclerophyl-lous forests in central Chile, and by deciduous Nothofagus forests farther south. Together with species-rich sclero-phyllous shrublands (kwongan and mallee), the forests and woodlands of SW Australia are dominated by Eucalyptus, Acacia, and Casuarina on poor sandy soils, where mean annual rainfall exceeds 400 mm; several types of Australian woody vegetation are distinguished according to the foliage cover of tallest stratum and the high of the trees.
In the Mediterranean Basin, the current diversity of forest structures can be organized into three major structural types based on bioclimatic and/or human impact criteria (Tables 2 and 3).
True forest vegetation types are related to metastable equilibrium of vegetation structures. They represent the potential structures at the end of a dynamic ecological cycle, which can be achieved where soil and climate conditions are favorable and where the impact of man is not too strong. Dominant species are sclerophyllous oaks in semiarid bioclimates and deciduous oaks in more humid conditions.
Preforest types can be divided into two categories. Under perhumid, humid, and subhumid bioclimates, they consist of vegetation structures that have undergone severe human impact, although their soil is still relatively well preserved. They are transitory structures from true forests to more open systems. Under semiarid bioclimatic conditions, or under particularly stressful conditions (e.g., ultramafic substrates) in any bioclimate, preforests are comprised of shrub-dominated vegetation structures with scattered trees (matorrals). Conifer species (Pinus, Tetraclinis) play an important role in these structures.
Presteppic forest types, very frequent in southern and eastern Mediterranean, consist of open-vegetation structures dominated by nonforest plant species under scattered trees. Nonforest species are steppe-type perennial species that can eventually be replaced by ruderal annual species when grazing occurs. Presteppes are most frequent under warm and hot temperature variants of arid (and sometimes semiarid) bioclimates. They gradually merge into steppes under hotter and drier conditions. On mountains, presteppes are a transitional vegetation structure from forests (or preforests) to high-elevation steppes dominated by low and scattered cushion-like spiny xerophytes.
Annual grasslands represent also key ecosystems in the two northern Mediterranean ecoregions. The composition and structure of grassland communities are strongly controlled by disturbances, which create a complex pattern of microsites and canopy gaps. Therefore, the heavily grazed grasslands of the Mediterranean Basin have probably the greatest alpha diversity of any temperate plant community, and annuals represent half of the total species found in this region. Nearly one-fifth of California is covered by grasslands, but most of them are dominated by non-native annuals (Bromus, Avena, Erodium, etc.) originated from the Mediterranean Basin.
Was this article helpful?
You Might Start Missing Your Termites After Kickin'em Out. After All, They Have Been Your Roommates For Quite A While. Enraged With How The Termites Have Eaten Up Your Antique Furniture? Can't Wait To Have Them Exterminated Completely From The Face Of The Earth? Fret Not. We Will Tell You How To Get Rid Of Them From Your House At Least. If Not From The Face The Earth.


text:
Tiger Eye pendant on gold plated chain
Approximately .5"h x.75"w (height is stone size only, bail will add a little extra to height)
This Healing Garden Shop Tiger Eye pendant has been connected to a gold plated 18" chain. You will get a similar piece to the one listed.
Tiger Eye is a protective stone and can help to bring luck and prosperity. It can also help to bring courage during times of change. Tiger Eye can also help to increase positive energy, neutralize fears and helps to accomplish goals.
Because these are natural gemstones, there may be natural markings that will only make your piece more unique. This does not affect the energy and intent of your bracelet.
All Healing Garden Shop jewelry are smudged and infused with Reiki energy before shipping.
It is recommended that Healing Garden Shop jewelry not be worn in the water or worn during any water related activity like in the shower or doing dishes other than cleansing as long term exposure to water can harden and break the elastic.
Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional. Please consult your medical practitioner for any questions regarding your health. The bracelets I make are not intended to substitute any treatment prescribed by your doctor and is not a cure for any health conditions.


text:
Photos by: .PhotoResourceHawaii
Luau in Hawaii
Like luau food (Hawaiian food), a luau is a must for any first-timer to Hawaii. Classic luaus typically pair a festive, Island-style banquet of titanic proportions with pan-Polynesian music and dance performances. Usually held under the stars, it can (and should!) last all evening.
Good fun, absolutely—but is the luau in any way authentically Hawaiian, is luau food prepared authentically, are dances traditional, or is it just another gimmick cooked up for tourists?
History of the Luau
The luau does indeed trace its roots to ancient Hawaii, when important occasions would be honored with a special feast steeped in traditions, taboos and symbolism. Perhaps foremost among its purposes, the luau was meant to not only bring people together, but also bond them together. "Luau" is in fact the name of a popular dish once commonly shared at these gatherings. Up until the mid-1800s, a luau was called an aha aina or paina, loosely meaning "meal gathering" or "feast." For centuries, luaus were held on large, finely woven lauhala mats that were laid on the ground and decorated with fresh leaves, flowers and ferns. Guests sat or reclined on either side of the spread, communally dipping into wooden bowls and platters filled with an endless variety of favorite foods and condiments. This was the standard style of presentation right into the 20th century.
Luau Food
Guests at a traditional luau would have especially looked forward to luau food staples – the poi and pig dishes. Poi, a nutritious, thick paste pounded from the taro root, was also a staple in the Hawaiian diet, but more importantly considered a sacred link to the origin of the Hawaiian people. Even today, poi is treated with great respect in the Islands. As for the pig, it had spent that entire day cooking whole in the ground, resulting in incredibly tender and juicy pork meat. The unveiling of the cooked pig is still a highlight of any proper luau, and the main dish of the luau food dinner menu.
Historical Luaus in Hawaii
How festive can a luau get? One of the largest luaus ever held in Hawaii was in 1847, to celebrate the 50th birthday of King Kamehameha III. More than 1,500 guests were invited and fed in shifts of 500. The feast required no less than 271 hogs, 482 large calabashes of poi, 3,125 salted fish, 1,820 fresh fish, 2,245 coconuts and 4,000 taro plants, for starters!
More than 150 years since that monumental event, Hawaii's people still love to throw a luau for everything from baby's first birthday to anniversaries, graduations and fundraisers. We socialize, laugh, share classic Island dishes, bring out the ukulele or guitar, sing, even get up and dance hula. But amidst the fun, we also take the luau seriously. Through it we feel an emotional connection to long faded, yet still venerated, ancient traditions—and to each other.
Let's Luau!
Visitor luaus offer up the same spirit of aloha and togetherness—plus go the extra mile with fun add-ons such as mai tais, tiki torches and Samoan fire-knife dancing. Sit next to strangers at a luau, and you can't help but be friends by the end of the evening. And that's really the point.
So—cooked up for tourists? Nope. Luaus are the real deal.
Now that you know a little bit about the history of the luau, relax and enjoy yours! Get your fill of luau food, hula, music, and of course a few cocktails, and take home golden memories of a true Hawaiian tradition (minus the mini umbrellas in your mai tai).
Wear: Relaxed alohawear or resortwear.
See: The unveiling of the pig from the imu, or underground oven.
Eat: The pig, aka kalua pork dish; dip each bite into the poi to temper the pork's saltiness. If served, also try the lomi lomi salmon, chicken long rice, lau lau and haupia. Luau food is so ono (delicious)!


text:
The Summer 2020, Fall 2020, and Academic Year 2020-2021 application is closed
The Fund for Education Abroad (FEA) invests in promising students with financial need who wish to study abroad. Potential applicants who meet our eligibility requirements may participate on any international education program that meets their academic objectives.
The summer, fall, and academic year 2020-2021 application will is now closed.
Fund for education abroad (FEA) Scholarships
One online application leads to many opportunities. As an applicant to FEA, you are considered for all of the below scholarships you meet the criteria for, along with the FEA General Scholarships.
General Scholarships
Please check our eligibility requirements for more details before submitting your application.
- CAPA The Global Education Network
- CET Academic Programs
- DIS Study Abroad
- AIFS Study Abroad
- American University in Cairo
- FIE: Foundation for International Education
- The Institute for Study Abroad (IFSA)
- The Intern Group
- The School for Field Studies (SFS)
- SIT Study Abroad
- The University of Auckland
- University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC)
Named & Dedicated Scholarships
- Alumni Scholarship
- The A. Rewari Family Scholarship for Study Abroad in Denmark
- Artigas-Etchegaray Scholarship
- BASAA Scholarship
- Breakout Scholarship for Community College Students
- Calvert Family Scholarship
- The Cyril Taylor Memorial Scholarship for Study in the UK
- The Eleni Zachariou Memorial Scholarship for Study in Greece
- Gugel-McPherson Family Scholarship
- Hiliary Echo Douglas Memorial Scholarship
- Holland America Line Scholarship for Travel and Tourism
- Jan Kieling Rainbow Scholarship
- Kacenga-Cladera Family Rainbow Scholarship
- Malú Alvarez Global Access Scholarship
- Martha and Jeff Johnson Scholarship
- Minnesota Scholarship
- NAFSA Tamara H. Bryant Memorial Scholarship
- Rainbow Scholarship
- The Sarah Saleh Scholarship for Study in Italy
- Simpson Sisters' Scholarship
- The South India Term Abroad (SITA) Nallennam Scholarship
- Steckley-Weitzel Family Scholarship
Future Applications: Tentative Dates
- Spring 2021: July 1, 2020 – September 16, 2020
- Fall, Summer, Academic Year 2021-2022: November 16, 2020 – January 20, 2021


text:
Chem-Dry of Colorado Carpet Cleaning Services
When you choose Chem-Dry of Colorado professional carpet cleaners you get a deeper clean, faster-drying carpets and a healthier home for you and your family. We provide carpet cleaning services for Denver CO greater metro area. We don't just stop at carpets either! We are your complete solution for area rugs, upholstery, tile and grout cleanings as well.
Chem-Dry has become a trusted name in carpet cleaning for thousands of households, cleaning more than 10,000 households daily worldwide and more than 1 billion square feet of carpet every year, and for good reason. We use a unique Hot Carbonating Extraction (HCE) process to deliver a deeper, longer-lasting carpet cleaning combined with a green-certified solution that is all natural and safe for your kids and pets. This means you get a clean that is healthier for you, your family and your home. Our carpet cleaning services are:
DRIER. Our cleaning process uses 80% less water than typical steam cleaning, so carpets dry within hours, not days. This means you and your family can get back to enjoying your home sooner. See a full comparison of Chem-Dry vs Steam Cleaning to see all of the benefits of choosing Chem-Dry of Colorado carpet cleaners.
CLEANER. Our primary solution is carbonated and, just like club soda, as it penetrates deep into your carpet's fibers, it lifts the dirt from deep within your carpets so it can be whisked away with our powerful extraction equipment giving you the most thorough clean. And there is no dirt-attracting residue left behind, so carpets stay cleaner longer.
HEALTHIER. We use a low-water method which means there is less risk of mold and mildew growth under your carpet that can result from the excessive water used by most steam cleaners. We use an all natural, green-certified cleaning solution that does not contain any harsh soaps or chemicals and is completely safe and non-toxic for your family and pets. Additionally, an independent air quality lab found that our HCE method removes 98% of common allergens in your carpets and upholstery, and when a sanitizer is added, 89% of bacteria is removed from your indoor air*. That adds up to a safer carpet cleaning that is healthier for you, your family and your home.


text:
The International Islamic Relief Organization (IIROSA) is a charity organization emanating from the Muslim World League (MWL) and functions internationally. It was founded following a decision adopted at the 20th session of the Constituent Council of the Muslim World League in the year 1398H (1978), and a royal approval in 1399H (1979). IIROSA helps in alleviating the suffering of the distressed and needy people worldwide. It has a legal personality and an administrative and financial entity of its own, within the framework of its constitution and by laws.
General Policy
1. IIROSA pursues its goals and carries out its functions in accordance with the provisions of its constitution, based on moderation and responsibility.
2. IIROSA is an indivisible entity, totally committed to its mission, policies, objectives, methods, regulations, bylaws and procedure.
3. IIROSA implements its programs through its own means whenever possible.
4. IIROSA insists on the highest quality of performance.
5. IIROSA employs all its resources to strengthen relations between various societies.
6. IIROSA never interferes in the affairs of other countries and organizations.
7. IIROSA ensures implementation of market principles, standards, and mechanisms in such a way that enables it to maintain performing its mission and develop its resources in a pioneer way.
Pioneering the humanitarian and institutional work in a way that serves man and achieves reconstruction and development.
The vision of IIROSA is to be a humanitarian and charity authoritative source, donors' first choice, and to care for endowment and professional investment to implement its projects and programs of society development, via qualified human resources and strategic alliances.


text:
What a great project! These really help me learn my students names and assess their skill levels. It teaches my students how to use a ruler, create a gird (important for our next project), use pattern, and learn what negative space is.
1. Create a 3 inch grid on 9 x 12 inch paper
2. Use shapes to create letters that touch all four sides of each square
For example: an "M" would use one triangle pointing down on the top and two triangles pointing up on the bottom
3. Erase the grid lines not used to define letters
4. Use markers to create patterns of at least 2 colors to fill in the negative spaces around the letters
5. Erase ALL lines
6. Mount on a 12 x 15 inch colored sheet of students choice


text:
Discover the eyeglasses and sunglasses range from the world's premium designer - Tiffany. You will fall in love with these amazing Tiffany eyeglasses and sunglasses for women. The Tiffany Eyeglasses and sunglasses collection is made up of iconic shapes such as cat-eye, butterfly and oval. Tiffany sunglasses and eyeglasses are on sale at AllureAid.com. with 120 days money back and Free US domestic Shipping treat yourself to the glamour of Tiffany eyeglasses and sunglasses.
Please see our other popular collections as well: tiffany eyeglasses, tiffany sunglasses, prescription lenses, eyeglasses for woman, eyeglasses for man .
Copy the coupon code and use it when checking out.
Coupons Can Not Be Combined.


text:
Smoky pepper and tomato are a perfect flavour combination. This soup can be served hot or cold.
Seared Tenderloin with Sweet Potato, Barley and Lentil Pilaf and Pear Demi-Glace
Fall ingredients and flavours mingle in this elegant main that's perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.
Hoisin-Blackcurrant Glazed Chicken Recipe
The lip-smacking sweet and salty glaze is ready in minutes, making this a busy weeknight go-to dinner with a side of rice and stir-fried vegetables.
Vegan Orzo Mac & Cheese Recipe
Keep a stash of the vegan cheese powder on hand, and this satisfying meal is ready in the time it takes to make store-bought. The cheesy flavour means no one will know there's no dairy in it.
Miso Glazed Corn Recipe
Sweet and savoury corn with a sublime umami flavour from miso and nori and lots of crunchy panko. The topping and glaze are just as delicious on roasted root vegetables.
Ribs with Balsamic-Amarena Sauce Recipe
Amarena is a preserve of wild cherries from Italy with a unique flavour. Along with balsamic, it makes a tart and fruity glaze perfect on pork ribs.
Shaved Fennel, Guinette Cherries, and Arugula Salad Recipe
The perfect appetizer for a celebratory meal or add slices of rosy grilled duck breast or juicy roast chicken and turn it into the main course.
Vegan White Beans with Smoked Nuckhen Recipe
Herbs de Provence and hickory give this vegan main course plenty of savoury flavours. Creamy white beans and golden, tender nuckhen are a perfect contrast.
Vegan Pad Thai
A colourful vegan version of the Thai classic. Marinate the nuckhen in the morning, and a fabulous healthy dinner can be on the table in less than 30 minutes.
Bombay Coconut-Curry Nuckhen Wraps
A vegan wrap with bold Indian flavours made with tender, golden nuckhen. An easy and quick weeknight dinner before hockey practice, music lessons or packed for lunch.
Sous Vide Pork Tenderloin with Mustard Sauce
An easy and flavourful marinade that just as good on grilled or roast pork.
Basil-Lemon Pasta in Parmesan Cream Recipe
Made with Italian passion for flavour and simplicity. Don't be afraid to change up the flavours using the oil and fresh herb that you like best.


text:
The essence of escape, Oualidia is a peaceful haven, sheltered from the full force of the Atlantic on a picturesque cove. Two and a half hours by car from Marrakech, this luxury retreat is a world away from the bustle of city life, and bordered by verdant pastures.
Perched by the perfect calm of a lagoon, patrolled by flamingos.
Things to do
Step out from your luxury hotel into an area that's renowned for its ecological importance and a dazzling array of birdlife. In addition to the glistening sanctuary of the lagoon, there are pristine salt marshes, and the combination attracts egrets, ibis and herons.
On this quiet stretch of coastline there are many watersports on offer. Try your hand at windsurfing, surfing or swimming – this is a natural playground for water lovers. There's also a superb 18-hole golf course nearby.
Here you can savour fine dining inspired by the freshest treasures of the sea. Delicacies such as oysters, lobster and spider crab are used to create superlative cuisine that blends contemporary gastronomy with Moroccan tradition.
Look out for the freshest shellfish – it's sold straight from the sea on the beach by local fishermen.
Top Tip from SLH
Sort by
Refine results by:
Please wait...
{{totalResults}} RESULTS FOUND
From per night including tax
From total including tax
Loading prices
{{ getResturantsText(hotel) }}
Hold tight.. we're searching for your perfect hotel..
{{hotels.length}}of {{totalResults}}


text:
The Westin Galleria Houston
Houston, TX 77056
The Westin Galleria overlooks Uptown Houston and is located in The Galleria Mall (the fourth-largest shopping center in North America with over 400 stores). This luxury property offers complimentary covered self-parking for all guests along with great on-site shopping and dining destinations. Complimentary wireless internet access is available in the hotel lobby and all guest rooms. The soothing Westin Welcome blends sensory elements such as the signature White Tea scent to create a memorable first impression and set the tone for a relaxing stay.
The hotel lobby provides a customized check-in experience with comfortable social seating, soft ambient lighting, and custom commissioned artwork that transforms the lobby into an inviting place to relax and unwind. The hotel's 469 spacious and luxurious guest rooms cater to travelers in signature Westin style, offering updated technology, 55" flat-screen televisions and a well-designed work area. The Westin Heavenly Bed® ensures visitors enjoy a good night's sleep, while the Heavenly Bath® and other amenities thoroughly restore mind and body.
For the frequent traveler, healthy lifestyle options are abundant including a fitness studio along with New Balance gear rental for a nominal fee. Or, head to the rooftop and swim laps in the outdoor pool. Sit back and enjoy traditional breakfast, lunch and dinner at the Daily Grill. Dishes are inspired by the classic American grill tradition including steaks, chops, chicken, pasta, salad creations and more.
Sit back and enjoy traditional breakfast, lunch and dinner at the Daily Grill. Dishes are inspired by the classic American grill tradition including steak, chops, chicken, pasta, salad creations and more.
- Full Service:
- Single Rooms: 198
- Double Rooms: 268
- Total Rooms: 469
- Suites: 21
- ADA Accessible Rooms: 13
- Number of Floors: 24
- Restaurants: 1
- AAA Rating: 4
- Mobil Rating: not rated
- Check in: 3:00pm
- Check out: 12:00 noon
- Complimentary
- Garage
- Self
- Valet
Languages Spoken:
- Spanish
- Built: 1971
- Renovated: 2018
- Room Service:
- 24 Hour Room Service:
- Club Floor:
- 24 Hour Security:
- Business Center:
- Bar:
- Outdoor Pool:
- Fitness Center:
- In-Room Coffee:
- Internet:
- Wireless:
- Pet-Friendly:
- No. Miles from GRB Convention Center: 8
- No. Miles from Reliant Park: 6
- No. of Elevators: 5
- Senior Rate:
- Group Rate:
- Military Rate:
- Student Friendly:
- Bus Parking:
- Interior Corridors:
- Commissionable Rates:
- Group Rates:
- Student Rates:
- Gift Shop:
- Free Parking Available:
- Private Room for Special Events:
- Wireless:
- ADA Accessible:
- Motorcoach Parking:
- Advance Notice Required for Groups:
- Cancellation Policy for Groups:
- Commissionable Rates:
- Pet Friendly:
- Self Parking:
- Valet:
- Wireless:
- Hours: Daily: 6:30am-11:00pm - Happy Hour: Daily/3:00pm - 7:00pm Brunch: Saturday & Sunday 11:00am - 3:00pm
- Price: $$ (Meal, including one drink, tax and tip $11-$30)
- Seating Capacity: 187
Reservations Required:
- No
- Recommended
- Yes
- Menu: http://www.dailygrill.com/locations/daily-grill-houston-texas
- Breakfast:
- Weekend Brunch:
- Lunch:
- Dinner:
- Happy Hour:
- Kid's Menu:
- Self Parking:
- Delivery:
- Take Out:
- Separate Checks OK:
- ADA Accessible:
- Wireless:
- Free Wireless:
- Catering:
- Group Friendly:
- Student Group Friendly:
Type of Shop:
- Indoor Mall
- Hours: Monday - Saturday: 10:00am - 9:00pm; Sunday: 11:00am - 7:00pm
- Parking:
- Food Court:
- Full-Service Restaurant(s):
- Free Strollers/Wheelchairs:
- Playground:
- ADA Accessible:
- Wireless:
- Free Wireless:
- Parking Fee:
- ADA Accessible:
- Wireless:
General Information
- Are you interested in the student group travel m:
- Is your facility ADA compliance?:
- Do you require advance notice for student groups:
- Do you offer student group discounts?:
- Do you offer complimentary bus or motorcoach par:
Overnight Accommodations
- Are you interested in the Student Market?:
- Will you pre-register student groups?:
- What is the comp ratio?: 1 per 40
- Separate floors for boys/girls?:
- How many interior corridor rooms?: 469
- How many double rooms?: 268
- How many students to a double room?: 4
- How many suites?: 21
- Do you have a noise policy?:
- Are there student-discounted menus?:
- Is there security on property 24 hours?:
- Do you have a pool?:
- Do you have a gym?:
Student Friendly Restaurants
- Do you accept group reservations?:
- What is the largest group size you can accommodate: Up to 100
- Can you split bills for large groups?:
- How far in advance do you need a final group count: 72 hours
- Complimentary meals for bus driver?:
- Can you offer a prix-fixe menu?:
- Do you have a gluten-free menu?:
- Do you close for private events?:
- Do you have a private dining room?:
- Do you provide bag check in?:
- Is there comp bus parking?:
- We have tax-exempt status. Can you accommodate?:
Accessible Program(s)
- Does your facility meet ADA requirements?:
Meeting Facilities
Facility Info
- Exhibits Space
- Largest Room 26034
- Total Sq. Ft. 70000
- Audio/Visual true
- Catering Kitchen true
- Facility Buy Out For Special Event true
- On-Site Catering true
- Preferred Caterers true
- Preferred Valet Vendor(s) true
- Private Room true
- Number of Rooms 21
- Sleeping Rooms 469


text:
Radial PZ-DI Instrument DI Box For Acoustic & Orchestral Instruments
Radial PZ-DI Instrument DI Box for Acoustic & Orchestral Instruments
No matter what type of pickup you use, you'll get great results
Designed for acoustic & orchestral instruments
Key Points
|Check Availability 01524 410202
|Discount Price:
Share |
Radial PZ-DI Instrument DI Box for Acoustic & Orchestral InstrumentsNo matter what type of pickup you use, you'll get great results
Radial PZ-DI™ Orchestral Instrument DI
Part No. R800 3005
- Optimized for orchestral instruments on a live stage
- Adjustable load for piezo and magnetic pickups
- Variable low-cut filter to control bass resonance
- 48V phantom powered, does not require batteries
The Radial PZ-DI™ is a unique direct box that is specifically designed for acoustic and orchestral instruments. Unlike most direct boxes that are limited to a 'one size fits all' design, the PZ-DI lets you properly match the input impedance to the source to optimize the frequency response, dynamics and feel so that no matter what type of pickup you employ, you will enjoy smoother, more musically pleasing results.
The design begins with a 3-position load adjustment switch: The 1 meg-ohm position delivers the classic impedance found on most active DI boxes. The 220k-ohm setting warms up the tone of a magnetic pickup to give you the feel and tone as if connected to a tube amplifier. The ultra-high 10 meg-ohm impedance is used to compensate for the harsh, squawky tone that usually plagues piezo-equipped instruments. This is followed by a fully variable high-pass filter that lets you 'size the instrument' by gently rolling off bass frequencies to eliminate unwanted resonance. You could for instance, retain the low frequencies on a cello or increase the cut-off point to better suit a violin. For active instruments such as acoustic guitars that incorporate a battery powered preamp, you can engage a low-pass filter to gently soften the hard edge for a smoother more natural tone.
To maximize signal handling and reduce distortion, the PZ-DI incorporates an innovative DC to DC switching supply that converts the phantom power to deliver extra headroom. This provides ample dynamic range for acoustic instruments. Should an extra loud source such as an active bass or digital keyboard be encountered, simply activate the -15dB pad to satisfy the situation. Other problem solvers include a 180° polarity reverse switch to tame hot spots on stage that can cause feedback and a ground lift switch to help eliminate hum and buzz caused by ground loops.
The Radial PZ-DI is a ground breaking direct box that can instantly adapt to all types of pickups so that you can enjoy the full frequency response and dynamics of an orchestral string instrument, smooth-out the peaks of bluegrass fiddle, banjo or mandolin, split off a bass guitar without excessive loading, or naturally amplify an acoustic guitar without the usual tone-altering effects.
Important Note
Price errors and omissions excepted - An order is considered finalised on dispatch. No monies are debited from your card until the item is in stock or by prior arrangement.


text:
I am someone who abhors anything loud, as my family would corroborate. I don't like anything noisy. Even the parties I go to must not have ear-shattering music. I like to have my eardrums intact, thank you very much. But, have you noticed how noise, in general, has increase a lot in our public spaces … Read More →
As I open my large window to let some fresh air in, I notice the tall Christmas tree (fir) in the small patch of lawn in front of the house. This tree has grown so tall, it almost dwarfs everything in its vicinity. I often wonder why I planted this tree when we moved in … Read More →
Bindi that tiny dot that Hindu women put on their forehead, intrigues a lot of people When I visited Amsterdam many years back, my Dutch friend's girlfriend kept quizzing me about a tiny blue bindi that I wore with a kurta. I saw firsthand how foreigners are so in awe of our traditional dress and … Read More →
I took off my footwear in the car and walked the stony path to the temple carefully. As I stepped into the huge courtyard that the large, ornately carved doors led to, I bent down to touch the threshold with my hand and touched it to my forehead in obeisance. My younger son who was … Read More →
The other day, I stood in my tiny lawn looking up at the avocado tree. It has managed to stay put and grounded in such a narrow space. The trunk lengthening and going to obscene heights so that it can get its share of sunlight. The leaves, they renew completely every year, and the tree … Read More →
Have you seen the movie Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara? Yes, the same one that shows three males taking a trip of a lifetime together. I loved the movie, the tiny tales it told and the lilting songs. The close friendships, the silly pranks and the challenges that help each one overcome a fear for life … Read More →
When I shared my last post on tidying clothes, I got an overwhelming response with many sharing how they struggle with arranging clothes, problem of plenty, holding on to clothes that do not fit in the hope that they will fit one day and loving the technique of folding that frees up space. As promised … Read More →
I watched the first episode of Marie Kondo's show on Netflix, and I was hooked. I instantly connected with Marie the person, who has a bright, warm smile and a ringing voice. What is so likeable about her persona is that she exudes genuine empathy, is not judgmental but very understanding of whatever hoarding traits … Read More →
It's almost been a month-long break here on Rachna says I have been very sluggish on this blog, and my kids are complaining. I promise to post more here in this year, starting with this post. I can't step into the New Year without reflecting on the past year. I do that pretty often, BTW … Read More →
The only thing certain about life is death. Yet we are hit with a ferocity when it actually stares us in the face. It shakes us in a way nothing else in our lives does. My two clearest memories of seeing death up, close and personal were that of my maternal grandmother's (nani) when I … Read More →


text: Dejah Carter led ODU with 14 points, six rebounds and two blocks. ODU Athletics Women's Hoops Rallies Past Southern Miss, 53-50 January 19, 2019 By ODU Athletics HIGHLIGHTS: ODU Comes From Behind to Top Southern Miss Box Score (PDF) Box Score (HTML) Postgame Notes HATTIESBURG, Miss. -- The Old Dominion women's basketball team overcame a 6-point deficit with under five minutes remaining to defeat Southern Miss, 53-50, on the road on Saturday afternoon at Reed Green Coliseum. Old Dominion (13-5, 4-2) has now won four straight, the longest winning streak of head coach Nikki McCray-Penson's tenure. In a game that ODU trailed by as many as nine and led for only two minutes, the Monarchs' Dejah Carter and Taylor Edwards delivered clutch performances in the final minutes to send ODU to the thrilling comeback victory. With the game tied 49-49 and the shot clock winding down, Edwards hit a layup with 12 seconds remaining despite contact for what proved to be the game-winning basket. After Southern Miss (9-10, 1-5 C-USA) made it a one-point game at 51-50, Carter made a pair of clutch free throws to make it 53-50 and then contested USM's potential game-tying three on the other end. Edwards with the strong finish! 💪🏾 She misses the And-1 but ODU has the lead with 11 seconds remaining.ODU 51, USM 49 (0:11 remaining in 4Q) | #Monarchs | #RootedTogether pic.twitter.com/WQw6MvULDJ — ODU Women's Basketball (@ODUWBB) January 19, 2019 ODU outscored the Lady Eagles, 21-14, in the final quarter. Carter finished with a team-high 14 points to go along with six rebounds and two blocks. Edwards had nine points and seven assists. Up next, ODU returns home to host UTEP and UTSA next weekend. Thursday's game against UTEP will be the annual Education Day game at 11 a.m. ET. FOLLOW ODU WOMEN'S BASKETBALL ON SOCIAL MEDIAFollow @ODUWBB on Twitter for the latest updates on the Monarchs. Follow @ODUWBB


text:
Birthed From "Salt": A Conversation With Khôrada
The time is finally here. Two years after their birth by fire, the phoenix Khôrada emerges glistening and new, rising from the ashes of Agalloch and Giant Squid. This comes with a lot of baggage, the expectation of continuation poisoning what could very well be the start of a new, mammoth career. It is expected, especially taking the influential status of both bands into consideration, but it doesn't seem fair to solely critique a completely new band — one which exists in an entirely different stylistic world — within the vacuum of its predecessors. Thus emerges the fallacy of artistic lineage: creators will always exist within the shadow of their older work, even if they are given a chance to successfully surpass it. The public has subjective power, and can completely alter the context of a body of work to a place entirely outside intent. To the artist, this is unfortunate, but to the listener, this is second nature.
However, to Khôrada, this poses as an exciting challenge. This new band, boasting the talents of Aaron John Gregory, Don Anderson, Jason William Walton, and Aesop Dekker, is a new opportunity, a tabula rasa meant to entirely redefine careers left within the shade of so many monoliths. However separate from their prior projects it may be, Salt, the band's debut, flows naturally, each member bringing their own unique perspective to the table and compressing them into a cohesive artistic unit. Within a vacuum, this album may be seen as ambitious, something cerebral and progressive, but there is so much more at work once the listener breaks that element of poisonous expectation. Salt is… fun, almost unexpectedly for something so varied and complex, but it exudes a mammoth emotional energy. Something infectious and effusive.
"How can I describe it?" poses frontman Aaron John Gregory. "It's beautiful, it's really expansive, it's very heavy, it's very emotional." Salt is a roller coaster of feelings, sounds, whipping through its 52 minutes with poise and grace. It's easy to lose oneself in this unique work, but in a gloriously visceral way. In the case of "Ossify", Khôrada's first public statement, a bouncing, almost poppy groove belies a deep meditation on human failure and existential angst. "Seasons of Salt"'s psychedelic, crushing sludge opening gives way to pure, expressionist black metal. "Wave State" finds itself posed between post-punk drive and gothic gloom. Salt, itself, is so wild, new, and ornamented, it captures the listener instantly, but refuses to fully blossom until each individual petal's coloration fully evinces its kaleidoscopic palette.
The long-awaited Salt is out July 20th on Prophecy Productions. Read an interview with Aaron John Gregory below.
The most burning question which has to do with Khôrada obviously has to do with its impetus. It followed a lot of controversy. I was wondering how the band came to be, since people assume it has to come directly from the Agalloch breakup.
I mean, inherently it is because they broke up, so they needed a new band. They had decided they wanted to keep playing music together and had already been talking about it. Shortly after all that happened, I kind of spoke up for them online when no one really was yet, you know? We're old friends. We were on labels together and played plenty of shows together as Giant Squid and Agalloch. My wife, Jackie Gratz [of Grayceon], has worked with them a bunch. We all know each other — Aesop I've known for a long time. So I spoke up for them, they thanked me for that, and I was, like, "Hey man, I don't know what you guys are gonna end up doing, but if you start a new project and need people, I'd be super into it."
Within a few days, I got this letter, like a super 'Don Anderson: English Teacher" letter [motions like holding a length of paper]. It was like: "Listen: so we really like that idea. Let's try and do something."
And that's all it was, like, "let's start a new band and make it completely different than anything before." That was one of the initial parameters that we all agreed to; let's make this a completely new band and see what fucking happens. That's literally it, there's no real other motive for it, at least for me. They obviously had a very different personal experience, with their life experiences and whatnot and Agalloch splitting and all that, but I know when we get together we just get really excited and stoked to play music together. We're stoked on our record! It is what it is: it's a fucking new band.
You bring up playing something different, but I hear a lot of the inherent qualities from each band member. I hear a lot of Giant Squid from you, just as much as I hear a lot of Sculptured from Don and Jason and Aesop's very aggressively punk approach. It all kind of comes together in this… thing. Aside from trying to be different and new, what was it like to meld all these styles together?
Naturally, and I think this is why we got so excited about it early on, we started demoing within a week of saying "Hey, let's do this!" Don had a couple riffs in the inbox for me like that [snaps]. Then, I wrote a bunch of shit, too, so it was back and forth and it happened really naturally, which made us all think "cool!" Obviously there is a way where Don and I really gel nicely together where we can really support and reinforce each other musically. So that was just a really natural part, it really wasn't that big of a deal. And Aesop is just so fucking good; I'd go to Oakland and we'd jam some of these parts out. He'd add his influence and his ideas and things would just constantly be changing and moulding.
It's a way I'd never written songs before. Giant Squid would get in a room together and literally be like "Who's got a riff?" And then we'd all jump on that riff together spontaneously and all start jamming on it. Then someone else would say "Well, this could be riff B" and jump on that, whereas Khôrada is more like "Here's a riff for you. Sit with for two, two and a half weeks and send me back what you got!"
It's much more of a slow burn, which can be dangerous because you could overcook shit that way. If you're not in the room with each other and putting each other in check, you can go pretty far down one way and then everyone's like "I don't know man, maybe back up to this point."
The thing is, and I've already seen a bunch of fan responses to "Ossify", some people are like well there are some Agallochy parts in there!, and it's not that there are Agallochy parts, there are Don Anderson parts. And there aren't Giant Squid parts, there are just me parts. I'm not a session guitarist, I can't go into the studio and say "Well we're gonna play a New Jack Swing Blues riff!" and just pull that out of my ass. Most everything I do has some sort of weird, Giant Squid-y vibe and that's just how I play music. It's just a natural thing, it's not something I set out and aim for. No matter what, you're going to hear us in those songs. I think by default, since the position I've been put in is singer and (I don't want to say predominant songwriter, but) I wrote a bunch of stuff, so maybe there will be a little more of a lean of Giant Squid. I mean, any time you have someone from a band singing, it's going to have a stronger vibe in that direction. It's definitely us just writing — we started with "Anything goes… except for this. And no that. And no black metal parts. We can't write any more riffs in 3/4!" We kept chiseling ourselves down in this way that I think we were finding, almost unconsciously, what we knew we needed to sound like and what we ultimately did want to sound like, even though we went into it with zero expectations of capturing our old bands and integrating them. There was zero pressure to sound like any of our old bands… Or desire, really.
I think there was a lot of expectation from the public, especially from the cult surrounding of so much of the band. I think people forget about the musical and musician identity that goes into these things. Backpedaling to you talking about going back and forth over a long period of time, sending each other riffs. That is something I know the Agalloch guys had done a lot given how far apart they were, but what was it specifically like for you, jumping out of your box and into a not so jammy situation?
It was hard, man! It was really hard! And I'd tell them as much, sometimes, you know? I would feel that, again, without being in the same room, you're not keeping each other in check and you're also not spontaneously feeding off each other. You're taking one person's idea and sitting in a room with it for two weeks. Don and I are both very capable of writing twenty different guitar riffs to go to one song — he especially loves to do that — so there was always this massive amount of music that I'd be chiseling through, trying to create songs out of. If there is a role I have, it's being the puzzlemaster and trying to find how all these parts and different identities can work together to make a cohesive song, something which really sounds like music — like a fucking band and not just a "Hey, they're a new band and they're trying to find their way!" No! We pretty much know what we want to do, and this is it! So it's going to be fresh and new. A band's first record is going to be really hungry and brave. Fuck it, anything goes!
It was challenging for me, mostly because it involved so much self-editing on everyone's part when you're that distant from each other. It blows me away, man, that they wrote every record, or at least damn near every one of their records that way. I hear how they wrote Marrow of the Spirit and how they practically learned the songs practically on tour — it blows my mind, an approach like that seems insane, but they did it! They pulled it off! And in front of thousands of people! Yeah, it was definitely a new thing for me, though.
Back to self-editing, I did notice there was this cohesion, at least just going off the one song ("Ossify"), but there was a great cohesion which followed the track with that bouncing, pop-riff. Aside from some parts of Sculptured for the other guys, I never really heard that kind of pop in their music. Did you spring that on them?
It's funny — obviously, I'm playing the seven string guitar and Don is playing the standard, so if you're hearing any low, kind of farty shit, that's me! That song is actually one of Don's, I think it might have been an old Sculptured song.
Wow, really?
Yeah! So, that's one of these songs where he pretty much had it written: beginning, middle, and end. I added some chunks, this and that. There were these open riffs, so I go in and interject some weird ass shit or some groovy stuff. I remember Don being like "Fuck, dude. We would have never allowed that groovy riff in Agalloch!" You know, that [mimics "Ossify" verse riff], something like a bass line, and all swung and super low, down tuned. It's catchy — dare I say poppy! He said it was refreshing to play shit like that without restrictions and not trying to be dark and mysterious and worry about fans. There's plenty of harsh and metallic elements in there, it's a nice aggressive song about the fucking end of everything. It's certainly not a hopeful song, even though it contrasts musically, a bit.
You tell me about the end of everything, and, of course, the word "Ossify" obviously means "turn to bone," so I'm curious if you could go further into that imagery.
It's a bit of an apocalyptic record, but more from the sense of viewing it as parent, watching things fall apart, and what that means to be now since I have two kids. There is a progression through the album of recognizing the problem, ignoring the problem, what the problem is going to lead to, when it leads to that, how it's made worse instead of attempting to fixing it. "Ossify" is like, "Well, it's done, so what are whoever finds us later going to think? What are they going to learn from our bullshit?" Probably not much. There is so much of what I feel from mankind which won't ossify, won't fossilize. Egos and spite don't fossilize. It's weird, since we unveiled the end of the movie, but I like flash forwards since you have to go through the crazy dream to get there.
An eleven minute single is pretty ambitious, especially if it's the end of the story. I actually was unaware of the conceptual element at this point in time. What made you choose to show this very ending as your first statement? I mean, this is the first time anyone's heard anything by Khôrada after a few years of hype!
It's interesting, man, because it wasn't our first pick at all! There's a couple other songs from the record which we really wanted to premiere. These represented what the band does, they're a good statement, they were more from the middle of the record… it was a better representation, if there is a song or songs on the album which could represent us. So we mention that. All the feedback we got from the label and our PR people were like "Well here are the songs which really stand out to us!" and we were all "No shit! That's interesting!"
We kind of stood our ground, and, again, they bring it up. I finally realized "Ossify" was on that list every time. Every fucking time! I realized I'd only listened to "Ossify" after the forty minutes of music before it, so I took it out of context and listened to the song by itself. It hit me like "yeah, this is really quite the statement by itself, and it would be rather shocking!" I'd rather come out shocking people, I mean here's this weird, dare I say upbeat, keyboard heavy song with layered vocals and huge movements. I think that was kind of a brave move on our part. We're not paying lip service to anyone.
So "Ossify" is now one of our favorite songs on the record, just because it's so unique. Each song is so different, and that one more so than any of them. It's kind of a bold move on our part to be like "Fuck it, here you go." It's eleven minutes, sure. What I love is it doesn't feel like it. It moves by really quick, and I kind of want to roll over it again. We all love it, but we weren't all in agreement at first. There was a lot of back and forth like "[cartoonishly groans] No!" But we made it happen!
When you say you think of songs toward the middle as more representative of the Khôrada sound, how would you describe the Khôrada sound overall?
It's kind of a perfect culmination of what we all do musically at the extent of our music careers. We're not trying to come out the gates just fucking blazing fast and pissed off anymore, we've got nothing to prove anymore. We've all made records like that. I think Aesop is releasing a new Extremity record on the same day as Khôrada. You want blazing fast, classic death metal? There. Don's working on a Sculptured record. You want technical, progressive death metal? It's on its way. This is just all of us being inspired by the spontaneous. We can overcook it by the way we made the record, but it still has a natural feel to it. How can I describe it? It's beautiful, it's really expansive, it's very heavy, it's very emotional. There are songs on here which are really fucking emotional, and will probably make some people tear up because they might relate their own personal experiences to it. There are some songs which are bare, open-hearted, and emotional that… it's a pretty fucking brave move on our end, which you'll hear when you listen to the record. But man.. The record is hungry as fuck, and you can tell when you listen to it.
I've seen the word "prog"/"progressive" thrown around a lot when people talk about Khôrada. I know that word is a point of contention for a lot of artists who see their music described as such. I know that's a word your bandmates use when describing music they enjoy, and certainly is something which is ascribed to all the music that you've made. I wonder how do you feel about that?
It's funny, man, that always comes up. I don't think I listen to anything that could be considered "progressive": rock, metal, anything. Most of the stuff that's classically considered that, I'm not into at all. I find it too technical, too stiff, too sterile, lacking emotion. When shit is too good, I tend to get turned off, you know? A lot of people love that, that kind of perfection, you know? I love way rawer music. So I don't listen to progressive metal, and most bands who are progressive metal… I can't do it.
I understand I've basically made progressive metal records my entire career [laughs], and I'm okay with that, I'm not ashamed of the term. I think it's misleading — I think if you call Giant Squid progressive rock [or] progressive metal, you're setting someone up for expectations that aren't necessarily going to be met. But I don't know what else to call that band.
Truth of the matter, there are trumpets for the first ten seconds of the Khôrada record. You're going to hear trumpet. You're going to hear cello. You're going to hear keyboards throughout. You're going to hear songs which have twelve parts that go from straight up garage rocking type movements to exotic, weird shit. What I always liked to do with Giant Squid was mix those parts together — it never feels like "Hey, here's the token exotic part. Here's where we're going to switch straight into blasting." Bands like Mr Bungle or Secret Chiefs, they thrive off that ability… Estradasphere, too. Those kind of bands. I'd say Secret Chiefs is probably the only weird, progressive, weird band which I really listen to, but what they do sometimes is jarring and I can't always listen to it. I don't want Blue Note style jazz in the middle of a grindcore song. Uh uh! You can play a grindcore riff over a jazz, Blue Note type swung drum beat and you might get something completely insane, magical. Something that hasn't been done before. That's kind of how I've always approached music. Just because we have trumpet doesn't mean we have to make it sound like an old west, Ennio Morricone song or some shit. It's a trumpet, it's another instrument! Just play it! Progressive rock is a weird term — it is icky — but I know we're going to get it and that's okay.
Is it just about what comes natural to you guys, then?
Yeah, it's about what comes natural. If it's forced — if you're forcing shit in there just to show you can turn on a dime in the middle of a song and do something different — you're doing it just to show you can do it. It generally doesn't serve a musical purpose, and we're making really emotional music. To be that jarring and that all over the place is going to pull you out of the story, out of the movie. I like to think of things in terms of movies more.
If the album was a movie or if each movement was its own movie, how would you describe it in terms of cinema genre?
This would be some OG Mad Max meets Jurassic Park! [laughs] You know, maybe meets The Road. Moments of hopefulness, moments of, dare I say, adventure parts where you may want to clench your fists and run up the deserted hills down to the coast to get away from it all.
It's definitely an apocalyptic movie in that sense, but I'm thinking of the point of view of a dad. There's a song where I'm singing more or less about how I'm going to take care of my girls once the shit hits the fan. Where we're going to go, what we're going to do. In California, I live two blocks from the coast. My city is debating what we're going to do with the houses between me and the coast — literally two blocks — because the ocean is taking out the houses. So we're dealing with that shit, and in the meantime my state is constantly in an end of the world drought or getting flooded. The emotional tug, pull, and push of that… I don't know what the fuck to think. There is so much of that in this record — that's my point of view. It's not so literal in the sense of "The end is here and we're all gonna fucking die!" kind of cheesy grindcore lyrics.
I hope that, lyrically, even though these are the driving themes, there is a lot for people to identify. That's what makes the best and most relevant music, because people can identify with the message.
The way you were describing the current state of where you live, it seemed very emotional and personal, but also elemental. Does that play into the album?
Oh, absolutely. I mean, the name of the album is Salt. What does that mean? What does that tie into? It's a very powerful element. I've got salt water bashing at my doorstep, more or less. Everything in my neighborhood rusts because the ocean is coming. It's rising and it's getting bigger. Salt in the wounds, right? Everyone in this band has their wounds and, very much, this band is a healing process for a lot of us. There are parts of the album which talk about what mankind will resort to if the droughts keep up, if the water runs out, if corporations are fucking putting pipelines through lakes and poisoning wells in communities just to make a buck. The water is gone, what's fucking left, right?
There's a song on there called "Seasons of Salt" which dives pretty heavily into that. One of the lines is "One of the most valuable minerals: sodium chloride." What do we do, basically, you know? There's a bit of a science aspect that all my music has, a metaphoric science aspect. But you're right, it's elemental. Water, salt, earth: it's all in there.
It also seems very political, too. You're making some statements about the current state of the earth, the political state, the business rule, the oligarchy. I don't know if people would expect that, even though it is something very pertinent. Would you describe Salt as a political album?
Absolutely. My favorite band in the whole world is The Subhumans and all the offshoots like Citizen Fish and Culture Shock, which are as unmetal as can be. I grew up with that anarcho-socio-peace punk sort of style. Crass and that stuff. Aesop absolutely did, too, since he's an old school punk, too. I think Jason and Don kind of got into that stuff later on since they were from a more metal childhood. A lot of the music I listened to and wrote pre-Giant Squid was very much in that vibe, and that's what I wanted to bring to this. Funny enough, because Don told me "Alright, listen. This record can't be about the ocean and sharks and shit." I had to explain, "Don, you understand Giant Squid wasn't necessarily about 'the oceans and sharks.' It was all a metaphor for the human experience!" I didn't have a rock band about sea stars, it was all a metaphor for other shit! [laughs] But with that restriction, that challenge, what do I talk about, where do I come from?
Well, I'm a dad and I'm in a world where Donald Trump is the fucking president of the United States and he's threatening to send the National Guard into California to enforce ICE… and the fucking wall! He wants to open up the coast here to more oil drilling! If you drive down the California coast, man… when you get to central California you start to see the oil rigs out there, they're like islands, and he wants to put way more of those fucking things! And again: I have the ocean at my doorstep, my friends' neighborhoods are burning to the ground, and we're in such a severe drought, yet no one believes it because we're having a sporadic El Niño season so the whole state is flooding. The push and pull is crazy. It's emotionally taxing.
And you definitely put that into your art. There is definitely that emotional weight which goes into it, which is the case for good art! Are there any final thoughts you would like to add?
I would say… remember that this is four guys starting a brand new band. Don't get us wrong, we have talked about people's expectations, our own expectations, and where the middle ground is. We certainly didn't make this record to piss anybody off — we made this record so we can enjoy it, the four of us, and that comes first. That being said, it's not a self-serving record. We aren't all just getting each other off musically. We made a record with the idea that people would be able to relate to it. Probably a lot more people will be able to relate to this record than anything Giant Squid or Agalloch has done before, to be honest. And that is a bold statement, but it's true. It's accessible in a way which a lot of the followers aren't happy with. And we understand that Ironically, the challenge to overcome is the cult followings of both bands.
If you want Agalloch, go listen to some Agalloch records. If you want to get mad that Agalloch isn't around anymore, you know who to talk to. Ask anyone in this fucking band.
If you want Giant Squid, give us five or six years and we'll probably make another record. But for now, this is my new band and it's a lot of fun. We really enjoy it and it means a lot to us.
Become an Invisible Oranges patron.