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Microsoft on Tuesday said SQL Server 2008 R2, the next version of its database, will be generally available in May.
SQL Server 2008 R2 is the first major upgrade to Microsoft's flagship database since late 2007. Microsoft released a "feature-complete" community technology preview (CTP) in late November and had indicated it would ship in the first half of this year. Microsoft reported on its Data Platform Insider blog that there have been 150,000 downloads of the CTP.
With SQL Server 2008 R2, Microsoft is introducing new self-service business intelligence (BI) capabilities and master data services, which allows DBAs to manage and audit data records as data is altered.
The self-service BI will be offered by a new technology called PowerPivot (formerly code-named Project Gemini), which will allow users in Excel to load datasets of any size from any source, according to Microsoft. Users can then create their own OLAP cubes. A version of PowerPivot will also be offered for SharePoint Server 2010.
SQL Server 2008 R2 includes a new feature called StreamInsight, which allows high-end complex event processing and support for enterprise-grade systems with up to 256 logical processors.
Microsoft is also adding two new SKUs, one edition called Datacenter and one named Parallel Data Warehouse (formerly code-named Project Madison). The two represent the most scalable database servers offered by Microsoft to date, though it remains to be seen whether the company can capture high-end business from the likes of Oracle, IBM and Teradata.
Based on the technology Microsoft acquired from DATAllegro, Parallel Data Warehouse will be offered as appliances by partners IBM, HP, Bull and Dell, among others. Datacenter Edition and Parallel Data Warehouse will cost $57,500 per processor. Those two SKUs will not be offered with a server and CAL combo.
About the Author
Jeffrey Schwartz is executive editor of Redmond Channel Partner and an editor-at-large at Redmond magazine, affiliate publications of Government Computer News.
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Displaying items by tag: Fred Gall
January 1995Cover: Mike Conway – Noseslide Photo: Martineau Inside This Mag: 1994 T-Eddy Awards, Jay Adams and killing time with Duane Peters Also In This Issue: Hendrix on Frazier and Frazier on Hendrix and skating in PhiladelphiaMusic Articles: The Cows, Spearhead, Warzone, the Goops, Your Mom and Steel Wool
December 1994Cover: Wade Speyer – Method Photo: Kanights Inside This Mag: A trip to Europe with Wade and crew and the Venice Street Contest Also In This Issue: Rad ams Richard Paez, Drake Jones, AJ Massu and Hideo SakuragiMusic Articles: Bootsy Collins, Gas Huffer, The Roots, Suicidal Tendencies, Tad, Mighty Mighty Bosstones and Guided By Voices
Classic Covers: Fred GallHere's another classic cover excerpted from our December 2009 issue. Switch 5.0 at Hubba Hideout in 1995? That's right, it's Fred Gall, fuckers.
Best of P-Stone: Recap DosSome more select cuts from P-Stone, as he highlights some past clips for your viewing pleasure.
Classics: Keith Hufnagel's "Penal Code" PartKeith Hufnagel taught us all about power, style and finesse through his approach to skateboarding, business and life. His gift lives on with everything he created and we are all better people for the inspiration he gave us. Ride In peace, HUF. We love you and we thank you. —Ando, from FTC
RIP IN PEACE: Keith HufnagelThe word legend has entered our everyday lexicon to the point that we've lost sight of its huge power and rarity. Keith Hufnagel defined the word.
Skate Wild Trip with David GravetteGravette hits the great outdoors with Skate Wild, hiking, swimming and skating scenic spots.
The Samarria Brevard InterviewSamarria made a splash in the contest scene, but after her King of the Road appearance, the enjoi pro's been in a league of her own. Longtime friend Tré Williams covers her big breaks going from Tony Hawk tutorials to riding with the Panda Patrol—from our September '20 issue.
Ryan Siemens' "Welcome to Jenny" PartTo hell with tradition, Ryan rips on Vancouver's big rails and street bumps to the classic beats of Limp Bizkit. Get with it.
In The Mag
Louie Lopez front feeble pop overs into a GD mountain for the October front—much more L-Lopez inside as we talk to all the good homies about why Everybody Loves Louie. He really is one of the best. Baker 3 just turned 15 and we dive into all of the hi jinx and hammers that made it a modern-day classic. Travel-wise, Krooked meandered to Mexico City and we got Gonz to tell the tale and add some art to go along with it. Legendary. Willis Kimbel dishes on dream spots and deep thoughts and Chris Pfanner, Cody Chapman and Jonno Gaitan all get the Heads interview treatment. New REAL hot shot Christian Henry lands on the Lunatic Fringe and we speak with First Nation legend Joe Buffalo about his trials and tribulations overcoming his addictions. Need more? Damn, y'all are greedy. Okay, how about an 18-page photo feature and Sieben teaching you to steal a parking block? Fall is almost here but this one is still scorching.

subset: commoncrawl


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PARIS - As maids swept away dust from steps that led into a set in mourning, it was clear that the Louis Vuitton fashion show in Paris on Wednesday was a spring-summer collection in name only.
There was a dark fountain and a nightmarish carousel featuring inky, surreal-looking horses. There was a twin escalator and a luxury hotel elevator. And there was the universe of clothes in all-black.
The decor was like a greatest hits collection that fused elements of past shows with the present one, tracing designer Marc Jacobs' influential 16-year reign at the house.
Shortly after the show at the Louvre Museum in Paris, the visual metaphor was explained: LVMH announced that Jacobs was stepping down as creative director of its flagship brand. So Jacobs' ready-to-wear collection for the storied house looked like a funeral for a reason.
The dark show came on the final day of a fashion week that saw designers channel black and white but also other, sometimes colorful trends. Looks on high rotation included: tribal African, ethnic pattern prints, multitudinous pleats, metallic sheen and revealing micro mini crop tops. Mid-blue was a particularly favouredcolour.
And while Louis Vuitton shows are often extravagant and can use sets that cost millions of euros, the less well-off had options, too, during this year's fashion week. An initiative in recent years called the "Designer's Apartment" provided showroom spaces for top young designers such as Aganovich, Monographie and Le Moine Tricote.
Still, it was the well-established heavy hitters who drew the most attention.
The 41-piece display — which used embroidered black silk stockings, Eisenhower jackets embellished cabaret-style with large feathered shoulders, dark appliqued embroideries, smoking jackets and some 1940s baggy, blue jeans — was a study in noir.
The glimmering catwalk landscape was towered over by a huge clock, whose arms, instead of going forward, went back in time nostalgically.
"We went back and used all the different bits of the sets of the past," Jacobs explained backstage.
The clothes, too, went back in time.
Floor-length, thick Edwardian dresses and large proportions in the sleeves fused with black decorative corset details that evoked the fashions of the 1900s, and contrasted with the more revealing "showgirl" looks.
They were inspired by singers such as Cher, whose look from the "Take Me Home" days was evoked in many ensembles. But at moments it felt as if some looks belonged more to Givenchy's Riccardo Tisci.
In the program notes, Jacobs enclosed a message evoking a farewell to LVMH's chief executive: "For. Bernard Arnault. All my love, always."
But it was the standing ovation from Anna Wintour that said the most. Such rare, visible acclaim from the powerful U.S. Vogue editor — to whom he partly dedicated the show — was a poignant cap to his tenure.
Glenda Bailey, the influential U.S. editor of Harper's Bazaar, said the show signalled the "end of an era."
"Watching the show was like seeing your life flash before your eyes, because there were so many memorable moments referenced," she told The Associated Press.
"Marc brought such incredible energy to Louis Vuitton and should really be celebrated for bringing that house to life, and creating the vision that someone else will now take forward," Bailey added.
It was an emotional farewell, but not for all.
While most of the fashion world recognizes Jacobs' talents, some lament that he became too known as a showman and say that under his tenure at the house recognizable codes have not been created like at other storied houses such as Dior and Chanel.
Others, like Anna Dello Russo, editor-at-large for Vogue Japan, think that Vuitton was ready for a change.
"It was the right moment for (Marc) to leave. It was a good thing," she said outside the Hermes show.
Jacobs' exit has started heated speculation on who will replace him.
Reports suggest that LVMH executives are focusing on Nicolas Ghesquiere, the former creative director of Balenciaga, as a possible candidate, although it's not a done deal.
Meanwhile, it's expected that Jacobs will focus on his eponymous signature collection, which has been extremely profitable for LVMH, and preparation for a possible initial public offering.
Designer Christophe Lemaire took to the jungle for his intimate spring-summer show, with models who snaked around foliage in a central Paris orangery in deep greens, blues and nature prints.
"The dream of the jungles. I started with the deep shades and then gradually brought in prints colours," Lemaire said of his luxuriant collection, which used a large tulip print on high-collared silk gowns called "folkloric."
The show had all the usually fine cut Hermes-style clothes, like one must-have loose beige suit paired with leather sandals, but it couldn't help but feel a bit mute overall.
A pale buckled ethnic skirt in rough material with a flash of green was a fiery little touch that Lemaire could have developed more.
Lemaire said the jungle theme was inspired by the master painter Henri Rousseau, whose most famous work is "Tiger in a Tropical Storm." It was a shame there were no tigers here.
It was the art of contrast in Prada's baby sister label Miu Miu.
For spring-summer 2014, Miuccia Prada softened her musings to produce a more wearable and feminine collection than last season's intellectual tight foulards, polka dots and enormous handbags.
Cleanly cut coats in pastel shades of blue, grey and yellow with softly colored panels produced harmonious contrasts alongside bright flashes of bright red and navy.
They often appeared on thick, patterned stockings that helped paint the whole silhouette in colour.
Bright red sequined boots accessorized one look with a patterned sudden mid-thigh coat to give it an artfully contrasting punch of creative fun.
Samantha Critchell in New York and Sarah DiLorenzo in Paris contributed to this report.
Thomas Adamson can be followed at Twitter.com/ThomasAdamsonAP


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Start Slideshow
- CIE Architects Kaohsiung Port StationDesigned for an international competition focused on revitalizing the Kaohsiung Port Station in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, this gorgeous swooping design by Jason Lee and Patrick Koschuch of De Architekten CIE took first place. The project proposed by the duo will transform an abandoned railyard and port station into a spectacular and sustainable housing complex and public meeting space. Their design hopes to break the barrier that now exists between the Hamasen and Yancheng districts of the city, fusing them instead into one lively hub. CIE's new plan will also preserve the historic structures to create a new sector for the thriving city that calls to both the future and the past.1
- CIE Architects Kaohsiung Port StationA gorgeous new park, commercial zones, cultural buildings and museum are in the works.2
- CIE Architects Kaohsiung Port StationIntegrating Hamasen and Yancheng, the goal of the project is to revitalize the industrial area, while also paying tribute to Taiwan's industrial past by creating a present day cultural hub and residential zone.3
- CIE Architects Kaohsiung Port StationOne of the most unusual features is a lush park, which is built atop the gridwork of the abandoned railways. Paths throughout the park create specific zones that separate pedestrians and cyclists, for safety and relaxation.4
- CIE Architects Kaohsiung Port StationWith the railways as inspiration, CIE has created quite a sit. The pathway will extend over a  landbridge that arches above the park below, creating an undulating series of green hills. Cyclists and walkers can ascend and descend the slopes that will also be home to curated museum programs.5
- CIE Architects Kaohsiung Port StationThe new plans, which enhance the existing architecture, will also be energy efficient. The position of the commercial and residential buildings will minimize solar gain, take advantage of the cross breeze and allow serene views for residents.6
- CIE Architects Kaohsiung Port StationThe entire project will be a giant leap forward for the expanding city, attracting tourists while providing locals with an innovative and historically rich place to live.7


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Amy Winehouse battled addictions to drug and alcohol for years, but her family says they believe it was her recent abstinence from alcohol that killed her, The Sun reports.
A source close to her family tells the British newspaper that Winehouse ignored doctors' advice to gradually give up alcohol and instead went cold turkey from the substance. Her family believes the 27-year-old singer, who was found dead Saturday, died from a seizure brought on because her body did not know how to process such a withdrawal. "Abstinence gave her body such a fright they thought it was eventually the cause of her death," the source told the newspaper.
Amy Winehouse funeral held in London
Her father, Mitch Winehouse, denied reports that she had been drinking 72 hours before her death at a music festival in London. "He said doctors had told Amy to gradually reduce her intake of alcohol and to avoid bingeing at all costs. Amy told him she couldn't do that. It was all or nothing and she gave up completely," the source said. "Mitch said the shock of giving up, after everything she had been through over a bad few years, was just too much for her to take."
Amy Winehouse autopsy inconclusive; burial set
People confirmed Winehouse's family believe it was her quitting alcohol completely and immediately that led to her death.
The true cause of Winehouse's death won't be known for several weeks, pending toxicology tests. An autopsy performed Monday on the "Back to Black" singer was inconclusive.


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Going into the offseason, Chris Davis hoped next year would bring another opportunity to be the Orioles' everyday first baseman — along with a chance at redemption.
Despite having his best season at the plate — Davis set career highs in homers (33) and RBIs (85) — some early-season struggles at first led to his move from the position in late May. The Orioles used him as their designated hitter, and experiments in right field and left field worked well.
But earlier this month, just after the Orioles non-tendered first baseman Mark Reynolds, Davis received a phone call from Orioles manager Buck Showalter. The message: Get your first baseman's mitt ready for 2013.
Barring an offeseason move that would dictate otherwise — the Orioles are still shopping for a power bat through the trade market — Showalter made it clear that the 26-year-old Davis will have the opportunity to be the team's everyday first baseman.
"He said, 'We know you can play outfield if you have to, we know you can DH, but we want you to focus on first," Davis said this week. "And for Buck to give me that call that I was going to be the everyday first baseman, it was huge. It gives me a little bit of time to plan and kind of prepare myself to go out there and play 162 games at first."
This past season, Reynolds' glovework at first — along with the addition of rookie Manny Machado at third and Nate McLouth's late-season work in the outfield — stabilized the Orioles defense down the stretch as the team made the postseason for the first time in 15 years.
Reynolds agreed to a one-year, $6 million deal with the Cleveland Indians last week, one he accepted without ever receiving an offer from the Orioles. Despite his problems at first last season, Davis is the most logical fit to take over the position, especially with the outfield filling up now that the team has re-signed McLouth and has both Nick Markakis and Nolan Reimold returning from injuries.
Davis had a breakthrough season at the plate in 2012, proving his ability to be a full-time player. The left-handed slugger led the team in homers and improved his average against left-handed pitching, and he showed his versatility in the outfield, playing well in left and right despite his size. Plus, his two scoreless innings on the mound in the Orioles' 17-inning win in Boston on May 6 will forever live in team lore.
But first base is likely where the 26-year-old Davis' long-term future lies, and Showalter will let him prove it.
"I just wanted him to know that he was going to get a look over there and get an opportunity and to just be ready," Showalter said of his call to Davis. "I think Chris realizes that the major leagues is a little different than prospect status somewhere. This guy came to us with a reputation of being a really good first baseman, and for whatever reason he really didn't get his feet on the ground over there."
Davis entered last season with a career .997 fielding percentage at first, but he committed four errors in 38 games — and a few other miscues weren't charged as errors — before Showalter moved him in favor of Reynolds. Many of Davis' miscues were routine plays, like dropping throws to first.
"I missed some plays that I probably shouldn't have," said Davis, who didn't play first base once after May 28. "It was one of those things where I really couldn't find a rhythm and then with the injuries, I kind of had to fill in other places. I think there a few plays where there were some mental lapses, lack of focus. Maybe I took my eye off the ball a little too soon and was a little lazy."
Said Showalter: "When you're in an organization like he was in Texas, where everybody knows how good he was at first base and everything, I think he came in here trying to show everybody and sometimes maybe he made it a little harder than it had to be and it kind of snowballed on him.
"I remember him saying to me, I can't believe some of the [mistakes]. I've never done this."
Davis had been a prospect who had yet to stick in the majors for a full season when the Orioles acquired him, along with right-hander Tommy Hunter, from the Rangers in the Koji Uehara trade before the 2011 deadline. He made 17 of his 31 starts for the Orioles that season at third base, and he likely would have played there more if not for a nagging throwing shoulder. But he went into last year's spring training as the starting first baseman.
"Mark came back and played first, and when my arm was healthy I played a lot of third base," Davis said. "I really didn't have a lot of time to get to know the infielders. We had a lot of guys moving around. There were a lot of different things, so I think the more work I put in at spring training with the guys and the more I get accustomed to them and the more I learn the infielders, the best off I'll be."
Showalter, who had partial knee replacement surgery this offseason, told Davis one of the reasons he had the procedure was to be able to work with Davis at first. Showalter will defer to new infield coach Bobby Dickerson, but the manager said "there are a couple things I'd like to do with him physically that I wasn't able to do."
Ultimately, he's confident Davis can do the job at first.
"I just wanted him to know that things change," Showalter said. "And I've had some really good quality people tell me he was a really good first baseman and it just never happened. I think more than anything, he needs to earn the trust of [infielders] like [shortstop] J.J. Hardy."
Latest Orioles


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Monday, December 11, 2006
Hope Springs Eternal
"Love. She's a motherfucker." waiter, Old School At the moment, I'm try to decide why, exactly, are the Twins are "Hopeful" to keep Lew Ford? At this point in the offseason which has turned into a Roman orgy of money for most General Managers, the Minnesota Twins would be damn lucky retain a Lew Ford. Obviously the hope that Lew stays in Minnesota is not inspired by his steady decline over the two previous season, dropping offensively from a solid .827 OPS to a respectable .715 to a mortal .599 this past season. The hope would be that he can somehow reclaim that 2004 swing. His price tag, if offered arbitration by the Twins, should qualify him for a raise from $425,000 to $850,000 for next year and considering the astronomical increase for the cost of moderate outfielders, the Twins might be getting a bargain. Consider Gary Matthews Jr. who received what many would call a farce of a contract from the Angels this past offseason. After a "breakout" season at the age of 31, Gary cashed in for 5-years/$50 million. Here is the stat line that buys you $50 million dollar contracts: 31 - 19 HRs 79 RBIs .313/.371/.495 (.866 OPS) After Lew Ford's "breakout" campaign of 2004 when his was a youthful 27 Lew produced these numbers: 27 - 15 HRs 72 RBIs .299/.381/.446 (.827 OPS) For a season, it appeared that the Twins had once again pillaged another team's farm system. Of course we already know that Lew Ford regressed back down to earth. Lew started being Lew again. Had Lew compiled those numbers this past season, Lew might have found himself being a valued commodity. Instead, he's waiting next to his phone to hear (hopefully) an offer from the Minnesota Twins for, perhaps, less than a million dollars for one season. Baseball's time-line has a funny way of messing with its players. Almost Shakespearean. For instance Cool Papa Bell was labeled by Bill Veeck as one of the greatest players he had ever seen, drawing comparisons to Honus Wagner, even though most agreed that that was a unfair comparison. Cool Papa was much superior because he was in his 40s when Veeck saw him play. Because he was born before Jackie Robinson and was long past his prime when the color barrier was broke, he never was able to obtain the dividends that the Major Leaguers were entitled to. Cool Papa grew old in the slums of North St. Louis and spent many nights as a 72 year old with a shotgun on his lap because of the crime and grit of the neighborhood. He died penniless. Had he been born 15 years later, he might have played along side Robinson, Aaron and others. Naturally this story is heavy in contrast to the Matthews/Ford debate. I'm not suggesting that Lew Ford is Cool Papa either (although that nomenclature would fit Lew). Look again at the offensive numbers of Matthews and Ford. Lew Ford will be playing next season with the constant dread in the back of his mind that he might be sent on a one-way flight to Rochester or worse, Kansas City. Matthews might be seen next on Cribz or the OC. Some reap the rewards; others become Lew Ford and Cool Papa. Timing in this game is everything. Baseball. She's a motherfucker.
Posted by Twins Fan c.1981 at 12:13 AM No comments:
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Wesley nodded as he opened the door to his office. "I hate sending you back into the field so soon, but once you read the report, you'll understand why I don't want anyone else."
As the door closed behind them, Jack took a seat in front of his boss's oversized solid oak desk. "Lay it on me."
"Two of our senior analysts have been hearing a lot chatter lately linking the Vargas cartel and Abu al-Ramaan's terrorist faction. At this point, the only solid connection we have is South Beach Medical Supply."
Hidden in plain sight…
Former Marine sniper and current NSA agent Jack Stone has a new face to go with his new identity. But he still has the same tortured memories—which include the woman he let get away years ago, when they were teenagers. Now his new assignment in Miami will put him so close to the woman he's never been able to forget, he could reach out and touch her—if only she weren't under suspicion.
When Sophie Moreno uncovers evidence linking the medical supply company she works for with arms smuggling—and worse—she doesn't know who to turn to. After a shocking betrayal, she realizes the only person she can trust is a mysterious new person in the company—a man with hauntingly familiar eyes.
As Sophie questions her intense attraction to this man and Jack struggles not to blow his cover, the two of them must race against the clock to stop terrorists from killing scores of people—starting with them.
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Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Why in creation did you name this place Velvet Lava Cafe? It's so lame.
I know, isn't it? It's because I really couldn't think of a damn thing at the time and just wanted to start writing. So, I took my two favorite desserts - Red Velvet Cake and Molten Lava Cake - and combined them into the disaster you now see before you. I flog myself daily for it.
Seriously, are you the size of a house? With all these desserts?
Well, like which house are you talking about? A doll house? Okay, no. See, I don't eat all the stuff I bake. We eat some individual portions at home - and then I bring the rest in for my co-workers, who now despise me to no living end. Also, I have a treadmill at home - and I get my ass ON IT and run like hell. Also, we go for runs, walks, hikes, and I burn a lot of calories just from complaining about shit. And, I eat pretty well; as in, lots of protein, fiber, and some veggies. If we eat out, it's mainly sushi.
Okay, give it UP. What DO you eat for breakfast and lunch from that ONE post?
Come on, MAN, let it GO! Why are people still on that? It's a good breakfast, but it's a dumb lunch - dumb! Fine. Call me out - caller outer! Breakfast is Light Vanilla Yogurt mixed with PB2 powder (thus, creating heavenly peanut butter yogurt beyond description), then toss in a cup of Kashi GoLean Cereal: consume. Okay? For the DUMB lunch: first, I have about 3/4 cup of low-fat cottage cheese so I get my OCD-protein allotment (sprinkled with Mrs. Dash Table Blend for you hair-splitters); after that, I have a cup of Fiber One cereal (the plain kind, otherwise known as rabbit food). Why? Because I'm scarred.
And all you other runners out there? You know you're just as neurotic as me about protein and complex carbs - so don't even try to hide behind your protein drinks out there, because I've got your number - you OCD nutballs, you. I better hear your support in comments. Yeah, I'm lookin' at you, Manager Mom and Kspinning!
Why do you use the [ - ] dash all the time?
You noticed that? Well, I'm just not satisfied with the current state of acceptable and more ubiquitous forms of punctuation - and the pauses they spawn, or don't spawn, in my writing. So, I often feel I need the dash for the proper break that I'm looking for in my head, as I'm writing. In other words, I have 2 realities going on and this [-] is my little bridge. You should try it. Because the semi-colon, period, colon, and all that? So last millennium.
What kind of camera do you use? And, do you shave or wax your legs?
Isn't that kinda personal, about my camera? Well, as far as the legs go - I shave. I tried waxing and holy hell - remember The 40 Year Old Virgin when he's getting his chest waxed and he screams out "NIPPLEFUCK!" in pain? That's how I feel about ripping hairs out of their follicles, pretty much.
As for the camera, I use the Nikon D40 - which I chose for its small size (it was between the D40, D80, and D200). For lenses, I use the Sigma 30mm f/1.4, Nikon 50mm f/1.8 (doesn't AF on the D40, btw, which is why I bought the Sigma), and my new baby - the Nikon 60mm f/2.8 Micro. The camera came with a 17-55mm kit lens, which I don't use for food photography - but would use for a few other things. I mostly use natural light, but sometimes have to use a flash. Don't let anyone tell you that you cannot use a flash - you just don't want a flash that points directly at the object. Buy a flash that has "tilt" or "bounce" capabilities - play around with it, and you can basically mimic daylight, when needed.
Why is there is no recipe for Lava Cakes?
Yeah, you caught that. Well, you see - I have about 10 different recipes for lava cakes and, therefore, [and this should be no surprise to anyone reading this blog for a while] am paralyzed as to which one to post here. So, the answer - clearly - is to post none at all, because that's how I roll. In other words, I don't roll - I just freeze instead.
You're obsessed with kitchen tools, but what is your all time favorite?
Oh, wow. I feel like I've just been punched. I'm not even sure how to answer this - i.e., favorite aesthetically? Utilitarian? Frequency? Okay, I will have to go with my Global Knives. I JUST love them to no end. They are heaven to use and are simply gorgeous as well - I love their design. I have the Santoku, a paring knife, and a serrated knife. But, it's the Santoku I have the real affair with and often stroke lovingly.
Well, that's all for now folks. If you have any other burning questions, drop me an email - because you guys are damn funny.
27 comments:
- Lisa said...
Ha, so fantastic that you finally spilled about the breakfast and lunch! :) I kind of have to agree with you - the b-fast sound heavenly, and the lunch, well . . . That said, I GET it that we need protein - I just can't pull myself away from the carb trough . . . .
- September 2, 2008 at 10:43 AM
Bwah! You finally gave us the down low on the breakfast and lunch! How funny that people were still emailing you about that. I was intrigued, I must say. And that breakfast sounds delish. And while the lunch is a bit OCD, yes, I won't call it dumb. ;)
- September 2, 2008 at 10:54 AM
- Unknown said...
You really are a hot mess :)
- September 2, 2008 at 11:23 AM
- Real Live Lesbian said...
Off to figure out what PB2 powder is. I never get enough protein. As for the Kashi GoLean...I own stock at this point!
I wanna come to your house and get skinny!
- September 2, 2008 at 12:06 PM
- Brittany said...
Stop the flogging! I love your blog name! It would be interesting to do a poll of bloggers out there who still like their blog name. I kind of hate mine.
"I burn a lot of calories just from complaining about shit"
You crack me up.
- September 2, 2008 at 12:25 PM
Personally, I like the turkey baster.
- September 2, 2008 at 12:50 PM
Lava, lava! You really must unfreeze and post a lava cake recipe, you must.
Okay, the lunch is kind of lame, but is does fulfill the right requirements, plus it clearly allows you to indulge elsewhere, smart girl.
As for waxing. Nipplefuck!
And btw, I like the name of this blog, love the pictures and your use of the dash, and now need to know what PB2 is and if I need it.
- September 2, 2008 at 1:54 PM
- Clumbsy Cookie said...
I really wish I could burn calories from complaining about shit. I'm a compulsive complainer but that does not make me skinnier. Do you think that it's becauuse I eat when I complain? Uhmmm...
About the legs... I machine mine!
- September 2, 2008 at 2:57 PM
- Sugar Jones said...
That last FAQ just reminded me how it was that my fascination with Velvet Lava started... it was a contest to win some little measuring cups. I've had so much fun coming to your blog, I clear forgot that I didn't win. I finally broke down and bought a new measuring cup two days ago. The last one had lost a handle and accidentally ended up under my wedge sandals. Hey! They were really nice sandals!
- September 2, 2008 at 5:11 PM
Have I mentioned before how much I LOVE your lists?! Ok, good.
Dude, my food choices? I'm a total carb adict who usually only gets her protien eating pb right off a spoon... My breakfast is usually ten grain hot cereal or yogurt with granola on top. I'm just thinking that the pb powder might be a much lower-fat way to get my protien. I'm also thinking I'll start using dashes so I can be cool like you.
Love the name. Love your writing. Love that you included me. Thanks! :)
- September 2, 2008 at 6:56 PM
- NV said...
LOVE the blog name and the writing style. Of course, in my newspaper days, I had a copyeditor who used to call me "MRs. Dash" because of my prolific use of that punctuation. ;-)
- September 2, 2008 at 8:35 PM
- Jennifer S said...
OHHHH...I'm supposed to get on the treadmill. That clears up a big question I've had for quite some.
I'll have to check out those knives.
Also, you gave me a good laugh!
- September 2, 2008 at 9:21 PM
- grace said...
so you like a routine too, eh? repeated meals, daily flogging, ritual complaining. sounds a lot like me, except for the flogging. :)
oh, and how appropriate that you enjoy a sprinkle of mrs dash on your cottage cheese. :)
- September 3, 2008 at 2:12 AM
- Manager Mom said...
You can burn calories from COMPLAINING?!?
Rock and Roll. THAT must be how I have maintained my girlish figure.
Yep, I am totally with you on the protein/carbs thing. My breakfast is very similar to yours, except insert "Cherry" before the "Vanilla," leave out the powder, and subsititute Heartland Raisin Cinnamon Granola.
And every day for lunch I eat a veggie salad with grilled chicken and a cup of wheatberries.
I'm practically superstitious about my meals.
OCD Nutball = I'm sorry, but I totally resemble that remark!
- September 3, 2008 at 4:44 AM
- Ann said...
Lisa: I know, I finally caved. So embarrassed about that dumb lunch, but oh well.
Meagan: The breakfast is SO good, I swear. The lunch: nutritious, but dumb. But people were *still* wondering about it, isn't that funny?
Kimberly: I KNOW, girl! I know. :)
RLL: Come on over! PB2 rocks, I love it w/ yogurt. And GoLean? I think I go through 2 boxes a week, it's ridiculous.
Brittany: I now wish I just would've named my blog one word, nice and easy - you know? Like "Food", period.
Morton: Oh, you. I so teed you up for that, didn't I???
Sarah: I really will post a lava cake recipe as soon as I pull my head out of my arse. And yes, I think the other healthy eating allows me to indulge otherwise. And the PB2? Rockin'.
CC: Oh, yes! Except the questions are usually wrapped in "I have a question about a recipe and I love the blog, but what the heck does Velvet Lava mean anyhow". I think you just need to complain more. :)
Sugar: Oh, funny! I'm so glad you found me, bc then I found your blog too, girl!
Kspinning: See? Complex carbs, you runner YOU.
NV: Mrs. Dash! Sistas from anotha motha!
Jennifer H: I know, isn't just rude that you have to actually get ON those things? For a girl who covets design too, I think those knives might hook you...
Grace: I'm glad I'm not the only one who repeats meals, bc I really thought it was just ME and now I don't feel like such a mess. And I totally didn't realize how appropriate Mrs. DASH was, WOW. That's funny, man.
Manager Mom: UH HUH. I knew it. Completely and Totally. PEGGED. I knew you resembled that remark!!!!
- September 3, 2008 at 7:44 AM
- John D. said...
I like "Velvet Lava Cafe," and there's nothing LAME about your blog. Now let's put those kitchen tools to work and make a little SUM'EM SUM'EM! (yum!)
Do you mail food? ; )
- September 3, 2008 at 9:26 AM
Yeah, you kind of did. I have to say, I'm kind of confused about the lunch thing.
- September 3, 2008 at 9:35 AM
I kind of love knowing that I'm not the only weird-nutritional-food freak out there. Thank God I live alone, so no one can mock me about my bizarro eating habits. But hey! At least I'm eating my veggies, right?
- September 3, 2008 at 2:57 PM
- Ann said...
John: Comin' right up! I could totally mail food. Chocolate though? That could be fussy...and chocolate is so damn fine.
Morton: I know - the lunch is so...DUMB. It's just my obsessive way of getting loads of protein, fiber, plus I gotta have that sweet factor. It's really an embarrassing lunch - which is why in the original post I said I wanted to eat it in the closet (hence, I think why everyone was wanting to know what the hell I was eating!). Plus it takes me 2 seconds to pack and I don't have to think about. But it's STILL DUMB. Sigh...
The New CC: I so thank you for being a freak like me and just coming clean about it. See? I am NOT ALONE PEOPLE!
- September 3, 2008 at 5:29 PM
Your blog name is great and don't let anyone tell you otherwise. As for the dashes, Emily Dickinson used them incessantly. Granted, she confused the hell out of all of us with all her dashes, but damn it, you're in good company. Besides, your dashes aren't confusing in the least. Your lunch sounds absolutely terrible, though, my dear. How about some carrot-ginger soup with hummus, cucumbers and kalamata olives on the side, all washed down with some creamy 2% milk. What do you think?
- September 3, 2008 at 5:32 PM
- flutter said...
You SO crack my ass up
- September 3, 2008 at 6:44 PM
Okay - I have to ask the delicate question - with all that fiber from the Kashi and the Fiber One, are you simply farting your way from room to room??
I would be!! You are a gas, girl!!
Love the blog name. Love the fact that you are a little bit OCD. Keep on cooking:)
- September 5, 2008 at 6:51 AM
Well, Ann, my darling -- I just have to tell you that given the chance to ask you a ton of questions those would NEVER have made the list. Not ever. Those were not fun. Example:
What's the most interesting place you've thrown up?
Mine? Umm... besides the Waffle House parking lot... an Irish Pub in Seattle on a first date. Yep.
Now that's a good question.
Missed ya. My family was visiting and I've been doing slave labor until just now.
- September 5, 2008 at 4:13 PM
- Adam said...
Wow, this post was great. My first time reading your blog, and I love your sense of humor. You're a runner too and nutrition-head too, which is awesome.
People actually email you those questions? You have some hilarious readers. Feel free to send them my way too... I won't answer any questions about hair removal though... :)
- September 6, 2008 at 10:49 AM
- Tootsie Farklepants said...
I like your advice on the [-] punctuation. Punctuation police can suck it. It's a blog for crying out loud, not Hemingway.
- September 7, 2008 at 4:24 PM
where are you? I'm getting hungry...
- September 8, 2008 at 9:22 AM
- YD, sometimes with ♥June and ♥Angel Samantha said...
Hey funny lady! I missed this post last week. Just came back from our camping trip late last week and I'm tryin to catch-up.
- September 10, 2008 at 10:59 AM


text:
Who got a problem with Felton????!!!!?????
Who got a problem with Felton????!!!!?????
NOT A BUCKET! Fingertips folks
If they count that sh*t I'm out.
#6 - what could have been. Why diden't he take his talents to The Garden instead..:boohoo:
It's not going to count, the ball was still in his hands.
The Knicks are playing very well as a team even though the league is doing the Heat a favor by having the best teams play them in the second game of back to backs.
Thats no good but of course it's going to count
Anyone ever get a tech for chattering at the refs during a halftime shot review?
def no good
I just didn't see how Novak stepped on the line!
Well Shaq, Kenny are praising the knicks...barkley, no so...lol
Low scoring game benefits us in this game, we have to hit our open shots and if we fall behind by 8 we need to call a T.O asap...Hope we pull this one out.


text:
Yesterday I made the comment of watching too many Mad Men episodes and setting the table with vintage Pyrex.
After reading Jemm's comment about Butterprint dishes I thought I'd share some Pyrex.
Well the plates aren't Pyrex in real life but I suppose in my brain they are as I use them with it.
I used to be so guarded about using vintage things with so many kids in the house.
Something in me changed about ten years ago and we use it often now. It's okay if it breaks. Kind of.
I had to control myself with collecting Pyrex, there are so many great patterns. We move too often, so I settled on two patterns. Butterprint is my favorite and the brown stuff reminds me of my mother. I think I ate 1000 tuna noodle casseroles in that brown dish.
FYI I don't really like tuna casserole. Sorry, mother but I feel so free for admitting that.


text:
The world depends on mariners. Mariners depend on SCI. And we depend on you.
Photos of Christmas at Sea gift distribution at SCI's Port Newark International Seafarers' Center, taken November 24, 2015
Photos by David Rider, President & Executive Director
Volunteer knitters from around the country knit garments as symbols of SCI's mission of hospitality. Each year, SCI distributes these warming gifts to mariners far away from home.


text:
Friday 25 January
|Helarctos (1)
The smallest of the world's eight living bear species, the Malayan sun bear has short, sleek fur which is usually black but can range from reddish-brown to grey. Almost every sun bear has an individually distinct chest patch that is typically yellow, orange, or white, and may sometimes be speckled or spotted (3) (6). The sun bear has a broad muzzle that is relatively short and a large head, giving the bear a dog-like appearance. It has small, rounded ears, a fleshy forehead that occasionally looks wrinkled, and an extremely long tongue (longest of all bear species). With feet turned slightly inward, large naked paws and long curved claws, the sun bear is well adapted for climbing trees. Its feet are extraordinarily large compared with its body size, potentially assisting in digging and breaking into dead wood in search of insects (3) (4) (6). The Malayan sun bears on Borneo are the smallest of this species and are considered by many to warrant subspecies status (Helarctos malayanus eurispylus) (1) (6).
As the least studied bear species, comparatively little is known about the Malayan sun bear. It is an opportunistic omnivore, using its long tongue to eat termites and ants, beetle larvae, bee larvae, honey and a large variety of fruit species, especially figs (Ficus species) (4) (7) (8). Occasionally, it will also eat small rodents, birds and lizards (8). During periodic mass-fruiting events, fruit makes up most of the diet, providing the opportunity for sun bears to build up, or recover, fat and energy reserves for the prolonged period of low fruit availability following these events (9). The sun bear is mainly diurnal, spending most day hours foraging, although in human-disturbed areas it becomes more nocturnal (6) (10). Unlike other bears, it does not hibernate, as food is available year round (11).
Little is known about sun bear reproduction and cub rearing in the wild. Usually females are only seen with one cub and very rarely with two after a gestation period of approximately 95 days (4) (6) (12). It is possible that sun bears, like other bears, may have delayed implantation to ensure that cubs are born when the mother has sufficient fat reserves, the weather is favourable, and seasonally important foods are available, however this is not known (6). Sun bears give birth in dens or hollow trees where the cub is born naked and helpless. It remains protected for some period of time until it is able to venture out to accompany the mother while she forages and travels (6). It is thought that the cubs remain with their mother until they are fully grown at around two years old (12).
The Malayan sun bear has very loose skin around the neck so that if bitten on the back of the neck by another bear, a tiger or clouded leopard, the bear can turn in its skin to bite back of its attacker (11).
The range of the Malayan sun bear is not well documented, either historically or presently. However, the sun bear has been encountered throughout Southeast Asia from the eastern edge of India and northern Burma, to Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam and Thailand and south to Peninsular Malaysia and the islands of Sumatra and Borneo. The range of the sun bear has been greatly reduced through large scale habitat destruction and poaching and is now thought to be extinct in Tibet, Bangladesh and possibly Yunnan, southern China (1) (3) (6).
The Malayan sun bear inhabits both primary and logged, dense Southeast Asian tropical forests, including tropical evergreen rainforest, montane forest and swamp habitat. It occurs up to 2,000 metres above sea level (4).
Malayan sun bears have recently been re-classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List (1), primarily due to the continued destruction of its habitat (6). Habitat loss, fragmentation and degradation of the sun bear's tropical hardwood forest habitat is a huge threat to the Malayan sun bear population. This is caused particularly by human encroachment and illegal logging from both within and outside protected areas in order to grow coffee, rubber plants and oil palms (13). Another threat facing these bears is poaching, even within protected areas, to serve the trade in bear parts. Bear gall bladders and bile products are used in traditional medicines despite the fact that many herbal alternatives are equally beneficial, more readily available, legal and cheaper (3) (14). Further threats include the capture of sun bears as pets and the killing of bears due to increasing human-bear conflicts (3) (15). Catastrophic events such as fire and drought have also been having an impact on sun bear populations, causing a decrease in suitable habitat and food availability, resulting in many bears suffering from starvation (9). As a result of this ongoing habitat loss and excessive human-caused mortality, many sun bear populations have already become extinct (6).
The Malayan sun bear is understudied, and little conservation action has been targeted at it (3). The Malayan sun bear has been listed on Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) since 1979, which prohibits international trade (5), and the killing of the sun bear is prohibited under national wildlife protection laws, however, little enforcement of these laws occurs (3) (6). The Malayan sun bear is part of an international captive breeding programme and has a Species Survival Program under the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (11). More research is required as only recently have field studies started to investigate the basic biology, ecology, and behaviour of wild sun bears (6). Conservation of sun bears needs to focus on protection of their forest habitat, proper management of these areas, strict enforcement of their legal status, minimizing human-bear conflict near forest areas, and halting trade in bear parts (6).
For further information on the Malayan sun bear see:
Authenticated (01/04/08) by Dr. Gabriella Fredriksson, co-chair sun bear expert team, IUCN Bear Specialist Group.
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Friday 25 January
Friday 05 October
Monday 24 September


text:
[Popular Goods]
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text:
prayer and inspiration (President Thomas S. Monson)
Not a day has gone by that I have not communicated with my Father in Heaven through prayer. It is a relationship I cherish—one I would literally be lost without. If you do not now have such a relationship with your Father in Heaven, I urge you to work toward that goal. As you do so, you will be entitled to His inspiration and guidance in your life—necessities for each of us if we are to survive spiritually during our sojourn here on earth. Such inspiration and guidance are gifts He freely gives if we but seek them. What treasures they are!
I am always humbled and grateful when my Heavenly Father communicates with me through His inspiration. I have learned to recognize it, to trust it, and to follow it.
President Thomas S. Monson
October 2011 General Conference
October 2011 General Conference


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Monday, December 15, 2008
Standing on tradition
Do audiences outside Britain stand for the "Hallelujah" chorus in Handel's Messiah? I assume not, as the tradition is said to originate from our King George II once standing for this number, possibly to alleviate his gout. The Britten Sinfonia and Polyphony are very models of modern performing ensembles. At last night's Norwich Messiah there was not a tuxedo in sight. But still conductor Stephen Layton gestured expansively for the audience to stand for the words 'Hallelujah, for the Lord God Omnipotent reigneth'. Isn't classical music strange?
Stephen Layton's used his own edition of the Messiah for the performance. So he missed an opportunity to end the royalist tradition with a pithy annotation in the score. It was a cracking performance from the Britten Sinfonia, Polyphony and four outstanding young soloists. Hearing the Messiah played by a top-of-their-game chamber orchestra on modern instruments in the acoustics of a concert hall underlined just how great Handel's string writing is. For further evidence look no further than the composer's somewhat neglected Concerti Grossi, op. 3. I'll give period instruments the nod on this one and recommend Tafelmusik's recording directed by Jeanne Lamon.
There was certainly nothing traditional about the sound we heard last night. The venue for this Messiah, Norwich's Theatre Royal, has just had the French CARMEN® digital sound enhancement system installed to enhance its dry acoustics. The results, judging by last night's concert and the recent Glyndebourne Hänsel und Gretel, are certainly very impressive. More on this subject in my 2006 article Digital technology builds a virtual concert hall.
Last night's forces are recording the Messiah for release in autumn 2009 as part of the celebrations to mark the 250th anniversary of the composer's death. The two CDs will be released on the Britten Sinfonia's new record label which is a joint venture with innovative independent Signum Classics. There have recently been outstanding new recordings of the Messiah from The Sixteen and Dunedin Consort. (I have to point out that the Dunedin recording on the Linn Records label, which dates from 2006, is also available on vinyl LP). On last night's showing the Britten Sinfonia and Polyphony version should be up there with the best.
Stephen Layton is not usually one to stand on tradition.
The Britten Sinfonia/Polyphony Messiah can also be heard in Ely Cathedral on Dec 18, and St John's, Smith Square on Dec 21, 22 and 23. My ticket for last night's performance was provided free by the Britten Sinfonia as sole payment for chairing the pre-concert talk with three of the soloists. Any copyrighted material on these pages is included as "fair use", for the purpose of study, review or critical analysis only, and will be removed at the request of copyright owner(s). Report broken links, missing images and errors to - overgrownpath at hotmail dot co dot uk
14 comments:
- Pliable said...
Email received:
Do people outside the U.K. stand for the Hallelujah Chorus? They certainly do in Canada (gee, I wonder why.....), unless they are told not to.
They even stand if it's played as an excerpt in a School Christmas concert (except, in Public schools--not like your Public schools--they're not allowed to say Christmas in order to be P.C.) or by a brass band, etc.
Lot's of people wearing tight knickers? Doubt it.
David Cavlovic
- 1:57 pm
- Pliable said...
...and another.
Oh yes, we "colonists" stand in America for the "Hallelujah!" chorus. I grew up in a large Presbyterian church in the midwest that had the congregation rise and face the Resurrection stained glass window at the rear of the sanctuary (it was an impressive sight).
The King George stories are various, I guess. I heard the one that he fell asleep and that the resounding opening chords of the chorus startled him awake, causing him to jump to his feet.
Now I wonder which British monarch instituted American baseball's 7th inning 'stretch'?
Carol Murchie
- 2:00 pm
- Justin Friello said...
Oh yes, at every performance of the Messiah that I've been to here in the US, the audience stands. In fact, the instructions to do so have even appeared in programs.
- 3:36 pm
- Matthew said...
An interesting variation from the former colonies: in the program for Boston Baroque's annual Messiah, they have a little box explaining the tradition, the pros and cons, concluding by basically saying if you want to stand, go ahead, if you don't, you're historically covered. The (possibly predictably American) result is, of course, haphazard disorganization.
- 7:31 pm
- Scott said...
" Do audiences outside Britain stand for the "Hallelujah" chorus in Handel's Messiah? "
In Canada, yes. A few days ago in Toronto, David Willcocks conducted what was reportedly a superb Messiah, and turned to motion the audience to stand before he began the Hallelujah chorus.
- 2:43 am
- Pliable said...
Scott, thanks for that. And it is wonderful to hear that Sir David Willcocks is still making great music in his 78th year.
- 7:52 am
- John Bickley said...
I saw David Willcocks conduct the choir at Queens´College in Cambridge just a couple of weeks ago: it was at evensong to mark Richard Hickox's death just a couple of days after he died. He certainly can still inspire chamber-scale choirs as well.
- 4:05 pm
- Unknown said...
In Australia they do too. I sang Messiah seven times in the last four weeks, and in all concets, in Melbourne and in country Victoria, the audience stood. It was triggerred by the conductor and members of the audience.
- 9:57 pm
- ' said...
As Pliable at al. note, and although Texas isn't a former colony, we do in here too. The only other time we stand during the music is for the national anthem, and some cognitive psychologist might find in that an explanation as to why so many felt that "singing along" automatically goes with "standing up," as we experienced last week when our 17-year-old sang in the choir with the local symphony in Austin.
- 10:53 am
- Joseph Koczera, S.J. said...
When the New York Philarmonic played Messiah last week under the direction of Ton Koopman, there was a program note similar to the Boston Baroque one noted above, discussing the origins of the standing tradition and inviting audience members to do as they wished. On the night I attended, nearly everyone stood - some shot up right away, while others followed a half-minute or so later, some with bemused or sheepish looks on their faces that suggested that they weren't really sure what was going on and felt they should follow the crowd.
- 4:20 am
- Yvonne said...
Another one for Australia: you see plenty of standing – although not everyone feels the urge to stand and those who want to remain seated don't seem bothered about doing that.
However, I can't recall ever seeing a conductor encourage the audience to stand, nor have I ever seen a program book that instructs people to stand. Occasionally it will be referred to in a historical note, but without an invitation or instruction either way.
- 4:12 pm
- The Omniscient Mussel said...
Lots of standing at the Messiah's I've attended although it is often a claque of super-eager standers that lead the way followed reluctantly by the rest of us.
I rather enjoy the standing as a sort of seventh inning stretch activity that restores my consciousness to 100% and gives me hope that the end is near.
The super-eager claque are also all inevitably former choristers who feel the need to reinforce the contracted vocal forces with their own contribution.
I like Messiah but it is the "all the world's a stage" aspect of these sorts of things that I find more intriguing.
- 7:20 pm
- Pliable said...
OM, I'll certainly second your final comment.
The question about standing was almost a throwaway line from me.
Who would have thought it would generate one of the biggest ever responses to any of my posts?
As I said in the post - 'Isn't classical music strange?'
- 7:29 pm
- Kyle L said...
One more response here: Yes, we stand up for the Hallelujah chorus in Florida. The thing that intrigues me most is the prevalence of the chorus. When we sang the first part last Christmas, our director tacked on the chorus at the end. And when we did parts 2 & 3 for Easter, we sang it twice! At its usual spot, and again tacked on at the end of Part 3. But the congregation only stood on that second time. It's a curious habit, but I bet we're not the only choir to perform it this way.
- 5:56 am


text:
Assembly losing faith in touch voting?
The General Assembly is making moves towards phasing out electronic touch-screen voting machines over the course of the next few years, heeding the calls of activists upset over the lack of accountability the devices introduce to the democratic process.
Most electoral districts in the state use such devices, which in their most reckless form can leave election officials without a hard copy of the data which could be used to recover from mechanical or software glitches on election day, or – so say the conspiracy theorists – to detect fraud and tampering.
Most of the expensive machines are relatively new, meaning that the debate is more about politics than pragmatics; that is, they don't need to be replaced if we can trust our election officials. Even among the voices calling for a change and a paper trail, there's a faction which remains content to sit and wait for a congressional mandate, which hopefully will include federal funds to be used for the purchases.
The alleged risks of electronic voting have been a hot button issue on a national level for some time now. Robert F. Kennedy has penned a long and highly publicized essay on voting with digital ballots, and two election workers in Ohio were convicted on Wednesday of tampering with the crucial swing state's votes during the throes of the 2004 presidential election.
In what can only be described as the industry equivalent of a Darwin Award-worthy performance, Diebold Election Systems, ever the unlucky figurehead for the politically paranoid's problems with e-voting, even posted an image of a system unlock key on its web site earlier this week, thereby enabling even casual hackers to create functioning copies and imperiling a generation of the company's machines.
A general sense of caution seems to have descended over certain parts of the voting populace, with Hook art critic Laura Parsons reporting an unsettling typo on the ballots this past November and absentee voter Andrew Devereux drawing attention to a goofy set of instructions before the 2004 elections. Through it all, however, registrar Sheri Iachetta has remained confident in Charlottesville's spin-wheel system.
The gradual phase-out being proposed in Richmond, SB840, will require any new machines purchased after July 1, 2007 to include a hard-copy ballot counting mechanism. The initiative has so far made it through the smaller internal Privileges and Elections Committee by a landslide 13-2 vote, and a full vote is expected next week.


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Sugar Shout Out October 13, 2011
Sugar Shout Out: Carve Your Own Creative Jack-O'-Lantern
- See fun jack-o'-lantern ideas to inspire your carving creations
- Video: royal baby plans for Kate and William — will their daughter be Queen?
- Is Starbucks moving into the juice market?
- DIY: make over a boring headband for under $8
- iPhone 4S buying guide: pros and cons, and who should buy
- 10 Halloween costumes that should never be sexy
- Celebrities share their Halloween costume ideas!
- Find your perfect shade of lipstick this Fall
- Charming ideas for organizing your books
- Katie Holmes as the Slutty Pumpkin on How I Met Your Mother
- Secrets to shrinking your medical bills
- Must-follow rules for weight loss
- Oldies but goodies: reasons to adopt an adult shelter dog
- Alessandra Ambrosio breaks out a bright bikini to paddle board in Hawaii
- PopSugar Chicago: pumpkin patches worth your while


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The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art announced Friday that Chicago will no longer be considered a potential site for the museum "in light of extensive delays caused by Friends of the Parks."
The museum will instead move to California, officials said.
"No one benefits from continuing [Friends of the Parks] seemingly unending litigation to protect a parking lot," "Star Wars" filmmaker George W. Lucas, founder and chairman of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, said in a statement. "The actions initiated by Friends of Parks and their recent attempts to extract concessions from the city have effectively overridden approvals received from numerous democratically elected bodies of government."
The announcement comes exactly two years to the day after Lucas and his wife Mellody Hobson revealed they had chosen Chicago as the site of the highly-anticipated museum.
"The opportunity for a city to gain a brand new museum is rare, and this particular opportunity - gift worth approximately $1.5 billion - would have been the largest philanthropic contribution in Chicago's history," Emanuel said in a statement Friday. "Unfortunately, time has run out and the moment we've consistently warned about has arrived – Chicago's loss will be another city's gain. This missed opportunity has not only cost us what will be a world-class cultural institution, it has cost thousands of jobs for Chicago workers, millions of dollars in economic investment and countless educational opportunities for Chicago's youth."
Museum officials had earlier said they were "seriously pursuing" locations outside of Chicago after the parks group said it opposed any site along the city's lakefront, including a recently proposed McCormick Place Lakeside Center plan.
A lawsuit by the group first targeted the museum's original site, located between Soldier Field and McCormick Place, but Friends of the Parks later warned it would either amend the existing lawsuit to encompass the new McCormick Place site or file a new suit.
Friends of the Parks had recently released a memo, however, outlining stipulations under which it would settle its lawsuit, including a legally binding promise from Chicago to protect the lakefront from development for the next century. The memo also claimed the group wants 5 percent of museum revenues allocated to park improvements.
"It is unfortunate that the Lucas Museum has made the decision to leave Chicago rather than locate the museum on one of the several alternative sites that are not on Chicago's lakefront," Friends of the Parks Executive Director Juanita Irizarry and Board Chair Lauren Moltz said in a statement. "That would have been the true win-win."
Hobson previously claimed efforts to build the museum in Chicago were "co-opted and hijacked" by Friends of the Parks.
"When the Friends of the Parks sued the city in order to preserve a parking lot, we were offered a different and feasible solution—the replacement of an underutilized and outdated convention space that would also add more than 12 acres of new parkland," Hobson said in a statement. "Yet, even with this additional park space, an organization that claims to 'preserve, protect, improve and promote the use of parks and open space' now opposes this as well."
Still, Lucas said Friday, "While Chicago will not be home to the museum, my wife and I will continue to enthusiastically support a wide variety of educational and cultural activities throughout the city."


text:
Double points to spice up season finale
The FIA has announced that Formula One will award double points in the final race from 2014 in a bid to keep both championships alive until the end of the season.
What if ...
- Only three world titles in the past 20 years would have been won by a driver other than that year's eventual world champion under this new points structure. In 2003 Kimi Raikkonen would have prevented Michael Schumacher winning his fourth straight title; in 2008 Felipe Massa would not have been denied by Lewis Hamilton on the final bend of the season; and in 2012 Fernando Alonso would have beaten Sebastian Vettel
The move one of a number of changes planned to reinvigorate the sport after a year where the championships were done and dusted with three races remaining.
The FIA believes the decision will "maximise focus on the championship until the end of the campaign". The final race of the 2014 season is in Abu Dhabi on November 23.
Meanwhile, the FIA have also announced that the principle of a global cost cap has been approved, which could be introduced in January 2015.
Driver number changes has also been agreed, with drivers allowed to keep a number of their choice throughout their career, with only the world champion set to have the number one. If the same number is selected by more than one driver, then it will be awarded to the driver who placed highest in the drivers' championship the season before.
The principle to introduce a five-second penalty for minor incidents has also been accepted for next season.


text:
The Evolution of Home Ownership
Written by: Lankarge/Nahorney for HomeInsight
Once upon a time - just one or two generations ago - folks lived in their homes 15 or 20 years, or more. Many paid off their mortgages and stayed in their homes well into their retirement. Now, those who fit this home ownership profile are few and far between.
Fast FactsAccording to U.S. Census Bureau,out of a total U.S. population of 282,556,000 million people, some40 million move each year.That's approximately 14 percent annually.
23.4 million folks move within the same county; 7.7 million move to a different county within the same state; another 7.6 million move to a different state, and 1.2 million move to a different country altogether.
Relocation ranks as the third most stressful life event, behind death of a loved one and divorce.
Home Improvements
A lot of money is at risk. Homeowners spent a whopping $224 billion on home remodeling in 2004, according to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. Approximately three-quarters of that money was spent on improvements, while the rest paid for maintenance and repairs. According to researchers with Harvard's Joint Center for Housing studies, the average homeowner spends about $2,300 annually on home improvements. However, many folks are willing to shell out quite a bit more for larger-scale projects. Researchers found that 6.3% of these remodelers spent more than $20,000 on improvements while another 2.7% paid more than $35,000. Much of this money was earmarked for complete kitchen and bathroom makeovers. See how much a kitchen or bathroom remodel may add to your home's value.
The Second-Home Phenomenon
As folks move from one home to another (whether they're trading up, down, or simply following the best paying jobs), another interesting phenomenon is taking place. According to the most recent census estimates, nearly six percent of American households own a second home, typically within 150 miles of their main residence.
Most of these second-home buyers are folks in their prime wage earning years who are looking for an escape from their work week realities or an investment - or both. Many of these second homes are located near recreation areas, bodies of water, or mountains. While most second-home buyers purchase a seasonal home for the pure enjoyment of it, the red-hot real estate market of the past few years has generated home appreciation in these areas between 59 percent (Cape Cod) and 67 percent (Cape May). And though the market indeed shows signs of cooling, most second homes are situated on or near protected land. Because no new development is allowed, these homes are less commonly available and, therefore, fetch higher prices. For more information about second homes, please see Time for a Vacation Home?
According to Fiserv CSW, some of the most popular seasonal housing markets are:
The Downside of the Upside
All this moving and second-home buying in the last several years has been fueled by a combination of historically low interest rates, sub-prime lending ( higher-interest loans to folks with poor credit histories), and nonconforming lending products such as "interest-only" loans. While all three have brought home ownership to an all-time high (74.5 million American families now own their own homes), the relationship between income and debt is strained for many people. As the interest rates creep higher, this becomes increasingly worrisome. See Bubble Trouble?
Add to this strain the fact that many homeowners have extracted equity from their homes to consolidate large credit-card debt or pay for everything from home improvements to their kids' college, to cars and vacations, and you have a potentially disastrous financial situation for many families. As interest rates rise and the second phase of many variable-rate mortgage products kick in, consumers with these types of loans are faced with a big jump in their monthly payments.
Even with a traditional fixed-rate loan, many families are over-extended. Due to the laxity in lending underwriting standards over the past several years, many families qualified for higher home loans than their income can realistically support. Between 2000 and 2003, the number of American households spending more than 50 percent of their income on mortgage payments grew by 2.5 million, according to Harvard University's Joint Center for Housing Studies. In fact, today 1 in 8 Americans spends more than half of their income just keeping a roof over their heads. Check your debt-to-income ratio and find out how much equity you currently have in your home. If you're thinking of refinancing to a traditional fixed-rate loan, investigate your mortgage options.
Age and Circumstances
As homeowners today become empty nesters, they are more likely than their predecessors to start looking for smaller quarters. This is because their 2,800 sq-ft. home is now too large to care for ? or they're looking to downsize in order to cut costs.
Real estate agents showing smaller, one-level homes close to shopping and restaurants often find both first-time buyers and middle-aged or older folks at their open houses. Generally, there's more demand for lower-priced, smaller homes. This creates an interesting dynamic as move-down buyers find themselves in competition with first-time buyers for the same housing stock. And when demand exceeds supply, the prices tend to rise. This can come as a shock to those folks looking to trade down. They may find they actually have to pay more per-square-foot for a smaller home in their area than they would for a larger one. Check the square-footage and prices for homes in your neighborhood or an alternate location.
Because it's not always easy to find a suitable trade-down home, many older homeowners feel uncomfortable selling first, however many need the proceeds in order to finance their new home purchase. If they can't swing two homes temporarily, a good alternative is to sell, bank the proceeds, put the furniture in storage, and live in a rental until the right trade-down house comes along. Look for rental units in your neighborhood or an alternate location.
© 2020 Top Producer Systems. All rights reserved.


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Te'o doing tough balancing act at NFL combine
Recommended Video:
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - Manti Te'o wants everyone to know he's over the embarrassment of an online hoax, and he's ready to focus on football.
The Heisman Trophy runner-up acknowledges he could have done things to avoid a public spectacle. But he says if he was still embarrassed by it, he wouldn't have taken questions Saturday at the NFL's annual scouting combine.
Instead, nearly two dozen television cameras and a room full of reporters were capturing every word out of Te'o's mouth as he again tried to explain how he was duped into believing a girlfriend that never existed died last fall.
It was the largest group of reporters Te'o has faced since the story broke last month
More than 300 players, including Te'o, are in Indy this weekend to work out for NFL scouts.


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Hello from Manitoba!
I've got a friend interested in a car that just popped up in Winnipeg recently, a 2015 Competition Blue TA. It's an Alberta car, with just over 8,000 kms, and it could use a good cleaning. Knowing that there can't be many of these around Canada, I was wondering if anyone might know anything about it? Please feel free to let me know!


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DeGowin blood drive at the North Liberty Recreation Center Aug. 12
IOWA CITY— The University of Iowa DeGowin Blood Center will hold a blood drive on Monday, Aug. 6, from 4 until 7 pm in the Gerdin Conference Rooms 1 and 3 at the North Liberty Recreation Center.
In an average week, UIHC patients need nearly 600 units of blood products. One pint of donated blood can help save the lives of several people.
To be eligible to donate blood a person must: be 17 years old or 16 with parental consent; weigh at least 110 pounds; be cold or flu symptom free for five days; pass a mini-physical and medical history inquiry; have a photo ID; know Social Security or Driver's License number; drink fluids and have a meal prior to donation; bring a list of current medications; bring a list of places visited outside the U.S. within the last three years.
Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome.
Sign up online at www.uihealthcare.org/bloodcenter.
Under Online sign up headquarters click on University of Iowa Blood Drives
Contact the UI DeGowin Blood Center at 319-356-2058 with any questions.


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Happy Sunday…this morning I watercolored this small shoe I found nestled in some leaves while walking. Where is the other shoe?
Not the 'real shoe' but the way you Drew it Does Sharon🎨😊 and that's the magic of Art💖 well done again and thanks to you for the little magic trip in our childish imagination 🍄⛄🐰
Really fun art, Sharon. Laceless shoe, easy to see how it would've slipped off a little foot. I really like the tender little bed of leaves, and the slice-of-life story that this painting shares.
On the resident of the stroller no doubt…(K)
oh no – some little sweetie lost their shoe – and you capture it so beautifully!
I love this everyday mystery.
Such a cute illustration, Sharon! Would be good for 4th of July with red white and blue colors.
Love your little shoe! ❤ Inspiration is everywhere if we are paying attention! 😍
Lovely drawing Sharon – some poor parent is going to have to fork out for new shoes… ! It just goes to show anything can be a subject for artistic expression if we just use a little imagination…
Such a cute shoe
Your choice of subjects always makes me smile, you make anything and everything so interesting with your style of drawing and color!
Thank you Jenna, for your kind words.
One of life's mysteries: the single shoe! Lovely painting, Sharon.


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Healthcare might seem to be an unlikely target application for the Internet of Things technology, but recent developments show small ways that big-data is going to make an impact on patient care moving into the future.
One example is the Aventura Hospital and Medical Center in Aventura, Fla., which has started tracking patients using a small, plastic wristband the size of a digital watch. The bands contain a radio ID (RFID) and real-time-location (RTLS) tags that feed information to a General Electric software system called AgileTrac which pools patient and equipment data, and connects patients to doctors and machines using a hospital-sized Industrial Internet.
Aventura calculated that AgileTrac cut more than 3,000 hours in discharge time at the 400-bed hospital over nine months and dramatically improved handling of patients in Aventura's emergency room. "We are doing much better now than a year ago," said Karen Bibbo, chief nursing officer at Aventura's parent, HCA East Florida, in a press release . She said that "not having AgileTrac would be like going from a computer back to the paper system."
A second example is a hospital system that uses communications technology to fight hospital infections. Most of us know that proper hand washing helps prevent hospital-acquired infections. But the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention data shows that hand washing by providers only occurs 55 percent of the time. But now by wearing badges that count each room entry and exit, along with the use of soap or sanitizer dispensers, tracking hand washing is automated and doesn't interfere with existing hospital processes.
A large part of the impact of IoT technology will be where healthcare data exists in a lot of fragmented areas, including equipment, electronic medical records, along with the handling of patient data, tracking admissions, and managing best-practices. It also shows how connecting and funneling data can help make better-informed decisions.
Although it is not commonly recognized, healthcare delivery also involves rotating machinery. One example is computed tomography (CT) scanners, which are used to visualize internal structures of the body. GE says that globally there are approximately 52,000 CT scanners used for diagnostic and treatment evaluation across a wide spectrum of applications including cardiac, angiography, brain, chest, abdomen, and orthopedic. These machines are only a small sample of the millions of machines and critical systems that could be monitored, modeled, and remotely controlled and automated.
From an automation and control perspective, the "control loops" required to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare may seem trivial. But some of the primary target markets for IoT technology are precisely areas with complex processes that are difficult to manage, including energy management, transportation, power production, and oil and gas delivery.
It's easy to assume that the Internet of Things always refers to vast networks with sophisticated sensors and communication. And at some point in the future, I'm sure we'll see complex networks of devices that are better managed using this technology. But for now, I'm certain we'll continue to see much simpler technology that actually delivers large benefits using sensors, intelligent communications, and


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Boynton has a special talent for writing stories about and illustrating animals in a humorous, amusing way. Cows, pigs, chickens...oh, it's easy to identify one of her books from a random stack. Yes, that is part of her appeal. And now she has written an entire book about cows. That's right. Cows. I'm very excited to introduce the latest in children's cow literature, "truly outstanding in the field," Boynton's newest book, Amazing Cows.
Amazing Cows: Udder Absurdity for Children by Sandra Boynton. Workman Publishing (November 2010); ISBN 9780761162148; 96 pages
Book Source: Review copy from publisher
"The Thing About Cows" - "Much has been written about why cows are so widely admired. Or maybe nothing at all has been written about that. We forgot to check. ... In fact, what makes cows most amazing is that they don't have to actually DO anything to be amazing. They just ARE."
When you live in America's Dairyland, you're always up for reading the newest "moooooooooving" cow themed book. It's practically required. Amazing Cows showcases Boynton's trademark cartoon illustration style, but it is written for a slightly older audience, the children that have out-grown her toddler books. An entertaining mishmash of cow stories, poems, jokes riddles and comics with a few chickens and pigs thrown in, the book is billed as "Udder Absurdity for Children." That's putting it lightly.
The whole book is full of the oddly alluring, shake your head kind of humor that both kids and even adults will want to page through -- there's a cow riddle here, and a bovine joke there, here an udder, there a moo, every where a moo moo (oops, sorry, got a little carried away with the cow hilarity myself). And, not surprisingly, none of it is even the slightest bit factual. It's just plain clever funny.
Amazing Cows reads like a magazine with lots of little sections that don't really have much to do with each other except for the fact that they all discuss cows in some shape or form. First off and my daughter's favorite -- it includes barnyard knock-knock jokes, other cow jokes and even a limerick. My daughter also giggled at "The Four Stages of Metamoophosis." Udderflys are awesome! There are a number of short stories. The "Red Rover" one is the funniest and introduces 137 cows from North Dakota that play a game of red rover with three chickens. In the middle of the book is an Amazing Cow Comic Book, "Trouble on Zebllor." The cover shows that comic book character named Tad Humble in his superhero outfit. We're still trying to figure out what the comic was all about...something to do with a snore war. Cows, cows, cows. Frankly, it's a bit of a challenge to count all the cows in the "Find the Hidden Cows" spread, but if you have good eye-sight, make sure to take a glance at The Moo York Times on the bottom right corner and have a laugh at the name on the spotted piano.
Some the content in this book will likely be over the top of the average child's head. At first, I was a little worried what my daughter would make of the book. But once we started reading, she didn't want to put it down. We read it together cover to cover. She wanted more knock-knock jokes. That's her only criticism.
Can't have a review without a corresponding craft and activity! We made Puppet Udderflies from The Official Sandra Boynton Event Kit. (page 6) Our udderflies have given up fluttering. They prefer "cattle-pulting" around the house, instead.
Related links:
Sandra Boynton Web Site
Workman Publishers - Sandra Boynton
Workman Publishers has graciously offered to give away a copy of Boynton's Amazing Cows.
To enter this contest, leave a comment relevant to this post. Do you have a favorite Boynton book?
• For contact purposes, if you are a non-blogger or your email is not accessible in your blog profile, please leave a valid email address within the comment section.Three ways to gain extra entries (Maximum total entries is 4; please leave a separate comment for each entry):
• Contest is open to US
• Contest ends on Monday, January 31st, 2011 at 11:59 PM CST.
• Winner will be chosen at random and sent an email notification.
1st extra entry: Blog about this contest then post your link in the comment section.
2nd extra entry: Follow me on twitter (iambrimful) and tweet about the contest.
3rd extra entry: Follow Me! or subscribe by email or RSS reader
I am an Amazon affiliate and may receive a very small commission for products purchased through my Amazon links. (View my full disclosure statement for more information about my reviews.)


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Tourncan Vacation's exotic destinations offer new and different experiences particularly for those who have been doing repeat visits to destinations closer to home. Most of the exotic destinations are on someone's bucket list. Tourcan Vacation's exotic destinations offer unique travel opportunities (e.g. sights, safari, culture, art) and, more often than not, "A trip of a lifetime".
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Practical Uses of Math and Science depends heavily on reviewers to maintain the quality of the PUMAS Collection. Thank you in advance for taking the time and effort to participate in this vital activity. We have designed the peer review process to make reviewing PUMAS examples as easy as possible.
Reviews are submitted on-line using the Reviewers' Form, which you can reach through the User Tools. You must be logged in to view this resource. If you have agreed to review a current example, a link to the submission will appear when you log in.
At least one member of the Teaching Community, at an appropriate grade level, and at least one member of the Science Community, with an appropriate area of expertise, is asked to review each submission.
Your review will be sent anonymously to the lead author of the contribution, together with the other review(s) and a Cover Letter from the Editor. All who served as PUMAS reviewers are acknowledged on the PUMAS Acknowledgments Page.
Proceed to the User Tools.


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A process in which solid particles with a density greater than water settle out of the water phase due to gravity.
In a pumping station it is important to have benches at the bottom to insure that sedimentations and other suspended material are being guided to the inlet of the pump instead of settlements at the bottom of the pumping station.
In a discharge pipe it is important to insure a velocity high enough to avoid sedimentations in the pipes. The EN 1205 norm define min. 1 m/s in horizontal pipes and min. 0.7 m/s in vertical pipes. For a grinder pump or a pump with a cutter, sedimentations up to 0.6 m/s are acceptable.


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Before editing, be sure to read the wiki's policies. Please sign your name on Talk and vote pages using four tildes (~~~~) to automatically produce your name and the current date. Be sure to verify your e-mail address in your preferences. Before attempting any major article rewrites please read the layout guide. If you have any questions, check out the policy and help pages (see here for editing help), add a question to the Community portal, view the forum or ask me on my talk page. Again, welcome!
-- Seth Cooper (Talk) 21:15, January 23, 2011
Uploading images
Firefox; sorry for the late reply. How are you uploading the image? You should be using the standard upload page, which has the template laid out ready for use. If you are using some other means of uploading, I ask that you stop using it and start using the Special:Upload form, which will allow you to upload and enter information as we have requested. Thank you for your cooperation. - Cavalier One(Wizarding Wireless Network) 10:37, February 28, 2011 (UTC)
Edit Reversion
May I ask why you reverted my edit earlier today? Eladkse 14:28, 9 April 2011
Oh sorry it was an accident. I am reverting the undo again. Sorry. Check it and it should be how you left it. Sorry again. —Firefox1095 14:35, April 9, 2011 (UTC)
Heym good images. Do you have the possibility to upload an image of Alastor Moody's ministry file? We don´t know anything about his blood status and family. Thanks.--Rodolphus 15:08, April 9, 2011 (UTC)
Sure. I will upload one right away.Firefox1095 15:15, April 9, 2011 (UTC)
Thank you. Can you read what's written on it? I think I can make out -re-blood (pure-blood) Very hard to read. Unfortunately, I can´t make out anything about his fanily. Can you?--Rodolphus 15:31, April 9, 2011 (UTC)
Well in the film itself only a portion was visible since Harry didn't open the file but yeah I can read what's on it. The picture is a bit blurry because when taking a snapshot of a something that's moving it comes out a bit blurry but on the film itself it's clear.
He is a pureblood with pro-muggle leaning (in other words, blood traitor), not married, member of the order of the phoenix, and he is ranked Very High Risk. That's all that's visible. Firefox1095 15:38, April 9, 2011 (UTC)
Image request
Hi Firefox. You're doing a really cool job uploading all these images from Deathly Hallows! Would you be able to upload a specific image for me? Jayden Matthews 20:47, April 9, 2011 (UTC)
Sure. What is it? —Firefox1095 20:50, April 9, 2011 (UTC)
Thank you so much. When Harry and Hermione visit Bathilda's house in Godric's hollow, Harry notices a photograph of Grindelwald on her nightstand. If you could get a close up of this photo it would be greatly appreciated, as it's the only Grindelwald picture missing from his article. Again, thank you. Jayden Matthews 20:55, April 9, 2011 (UTC)
Done. I uploaded the picture. You just place it wherever you want on the article. Hope it's good enough. —Firefox1095 21:03, April 9, 2011 (UTC)
It's great! Thank you! Would you also be able to upload the one of Albus and Gellert? We already have one copy, but it's dreadfull quality. Jayden Matthews 21:27, April 9, 2011 (UTC)
I uploaded on over the one that's already there. If you want the version of the picture where you can see the book and everything, just tell me. Hope that helps. —Firefox1095 21:42, April 9, 2011 (UTC)
It's OK, just upload it as it is and I'll crop and rotate it. Thank you for doing this it's really helpfull. Jayden Matthews 21:44, April 9, 2011 (UTC)
I will also upload the version with the book but I will not put it on the article. I will upload it seperatly so you can edit it and put it if you think it is better. —Firefox1095 21:52, April 9, 2011 (UTC)
The version with the book is up. —Firefox1095 21:52, April 9, 2011 (UTC)
Awesome! Jayden Matthews 21:52, April 9, 2011 (UTC)
Can I be really cheeky and ask for another image? Jayden Matthews 22:08, April 9, 2011 (UTC)
It's alright. As a matter of fact, you can ask me for as much images as you want. I find it fun really so go ahead and ask as much as you want —Firefox1095 22:10, April 9, 2011 (UTC)
Thank you. Well, two images to be honest. One that shows Grindelwald perched on the window ledge of Gregorovitch's workshop but before the close up of him holding the Elder wand. And a close up of Grindelwald in prison where his whole head is visable, but where his facial expression is less toothy than the current main image. I'm not sure if the second one is even possible. Jayden Matthews 22:22, April 9, 2011 (UTC)
I got the first one and I will upload it ina minute but there isn't a scene where Grindelwald's head is completely visible except from the side when he is talking to Voldemort. I did, however, find a less toothy one.
I uploaded both images. —Firefox1095 22:39, April 9, 2011 (UTC)
Both awesome! I had a feeling the second one wouldn't be possible, so don't worry about it. I think I'll propose a new image for the infobox. The current one is just too creepy. Jayden Matthews 22:44, April 9, 2011 (UTC)
Really cool, thanks. I adjusted the lighting a bit. Hope you don't mind. Jayden Matthews 17:12, April 10, 2011 (UTC)
Also, feel free to give your opinion on Grindelwald's talk page. Jayden Matthews 17:23, April 10, 2011 (UTC)
no bragging
Unimportant fact
Firefox1095 - Just wanted to point out the fact that the minor edit that you made to your user page earlier tonight (specifically this one) was the 500,000th edit made to this wiki. Congratulations for being the one to use this round number. The Knights Who Say Ni 04:01, April 28, 2011 (UTC)
- Oh LOL! I was just trying to get something right and I usually forget about the preview button so I press on the publish then edit again till I get it right :P I should get Order of Merlin 1st class shouldn't I XD. — Firefox1095 — 00:03, April 29, 2011 (UTC)
RE:Spoiler alert
There's a spoiler alert at the Main Page. Everyone is pretty much on their own when it comes to spoilers, that's the convention around here. If you wish to remain spoiler-free, try to avoid pages with content that ought to spoil you. -- Seth Cooper owl post! 19:21, April 28, 2011 (UTC)
RE:Image Problem?
That sometimes happens when we upload new versions of already uploaded pictures. It would normally take a few seconds/minutes to replace the image, but it sometimes breaks. Regardless, I actually liked my version better (no offense, of course). -- Seth Cooper owl post! 00:43, April 30, 2011 (UTC)
RE:Cool DYK fact
While it is pretty neat, it is never directly stated and we don't know if that's really true. Although pretty much all the wizarding population is related to one another, we cannot be sure about that. Take the Dumbledores, for instance. We don't know any relation between them and the other wizarding families. Not to mention the Fudges, the Flumes, the Trelawneys, the Scrimgeours, the Pettigrews, the Notts, the Browns, etc. -- Seth Cooper owl post! 15:43, May 15, 2011 (UTC)
I gave the user a six-month-long ban, as he vandalised the page purposely and aware of the disruptive nature of his edit. By the way, no need to be so formal, here. :D -- Seth Cooper owl post! 21:46, May 29, 2011 (UTC)
Order of Merlin
|Order of Merlin (Third Class)
|The Order of Merlin is awarded to you by Nick O'Demus for having over one-thousand edits on the Harry Potter Wiki.


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Sandra Winn is freelance writer and independent writing contractor but first and foremost a wife, and home educator of her two children who lives in Pensacola, FL...home to white sandy beaches, the crisp waters of the Gulf of Mexico, and the Blue Angels.
Sandy, as her loved ones and friends know, has a passion for family, life, nature, science, and history. In July of 2008, Sandy was asked by an editor of the Pensacola News Journal to write an article regarding free fun things to do in the local area. Her article, Seven Free Days of Family Fun , was run as a 3/4 of a page article in the Pensacola News Journal.
In her free time, Sandy enjoys spending time with her husband, Donnie, of nineteen years and their two children, ages 13 and 16 by walking, playing board and video games, going to the beach, camping, visiting friends, and everything else life has to offer.