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Justin Klein is 6-foot-3, which means he is acutely aware how close his knees are to the seat in front of him on a plane. And on a recent business trip from Nashville to Chicago on a newly reconfigured Southwest Airlines plane, the 33-year-old regional sales manager immediately noticed he had lost an inch of legroom.
His knees were jammed in so tightly that he couldn't stretch out his legs under the seat in front of him. When he reclined in his seat, he could lean back only two inches instead of the usual three.
"It's ruined the Southwest flying experience," said Klein, 33.
Southwest is one of several airlines squeezing seats closer together in order to pack in more passengers, create rows with extra legroom for people willing to pay more, or both. Southwest Airlines has started adding six more seats to its planes, losing an inch of room between seats in the process. WestJet, out of Canada, is whacking several inches of space to make room for a section of higher-fare seats with extra legroom.
Even JetBlue Airways, which has long boasted the most legroom in the industry, announced earlier this month that it had removed an inch of legroom in the rear 11 rows of its Embraer E190 aircraft to accommodate expanded legroom in new, higher-priced rows.
Not only are the cheap seats closer together, there are fewer of them available as some airlines charge extra for window and aisle seats and remove rows to add premium coach sections. This makes it harder for families to find affordable seats together and makes travelers who have paid more reluctant to switch seats. And with airlines operating fewer flights to fill planes and cut costs, the standard economy seat has become a much harder commodity to come by.
"You are getting squeezed in all directions," said Henry Harteveldt, a travel industry analyst with Atmosphere Research Group.
Legroom is going the way of checked bags, in-flight meals, and pillows — once-free amenities that now come at a cost. In a fiercely competitive industry, this allows airlines to offer lower base ticket prices, while generating new revenue from those willing to pay additional fees.
Many passengers say that more legroom is the improvement they want most — 41 percent according to a recent survey by TripAdvisor, a travel-review website based in Newton. But 71 percent said they weren't willing to pay for extra legroom on domestic flights under four hours.
"It's kind of ridiculous that you have to pay for the ability to sit comfortably in a seat," said Susan Mocarski, founder of the startup Providence outerwear company Cleverhood , who flies out of Logan four or five times a month for work and can't afford to pay for extra legroom. "It just seems like it's inching up on absolutely intolerable travel."
United Airlines started the trend of offering higher-priced economy seats with extra legroom in 2005. Now all the major domestic carriers, with the exception of Southwest and US Airways, have done the same, and it has been a dependable revenue stream for cash-strapped airlines. JetBlue expects premiums paid for extra-legroom seats to bring in $150 million this year. Larger carriers generate significantly more but will not release the figures.
Some airlines have taken legroom reduction to an extreme. Spirit Airlines has just 28 inches between rows, the lowest in the industry. This configuration allows Spirit to get more people aboard and charge lower fares, the airline said.
Still, packing people too close together on planes can raise safety concerns. "You can't get much tighter than that," analyst Harteveldt said of Spirit's legroom, "because you run into issues of being able to safely evacuate a plane."
Spirit said safety is its top priority and its seating configuration complies with FAA regulations.
Southwest is now down to the industry standard of 31 inches between seats, a measurement called pitch, on its planes. A decade ago, the industry average was 32 inches. Southwest, however, said its new configuration includes seats with slimmer cushions and arm rests that allow more personal space on each side and include ergonomic improvements, such as better lower back support. "We've had people say that it's much more comfortable," said Southwest spokesman Paul Flaningan.
Salem resident Jake Sullivan, 29, who travels several times a month for his work as a client services manager at a Boston concierge company, said he has become "emotionally attached" to JetBlue in part because of the airline's space, with 34 inches between each row in coach on its Airbus A320s.
But even JetBlue, Boston's biggest carrier, has cut legroom in economy to offer more in higher-priced sections. On its Embraer E190 planes, 44 seats that previously had 33 inches of pitch now have 32, enabling the airline to add two higher-priced rows with 38 and 39 inches of pitch.
Sullivan, for his part, is willing to shell out more money for extra legroom if he needs it.
"I just look at it as the cost of doing business," he said. "If you want to fly, you play by the rules of the game."
Katie Johnston can be reached at email@example.com and on Twitter @ktkjohnston.


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Mail List
Video Archive
Sun, January 05, 2020
12:45 - 2:15 pm
Lama Chopa (Guru Puja)
The word puja means "to please" and has the connotation to please through offerings and practice. The Guru Puja lays the whole path to enlightenment on our mindstream, connects us more strongly to our teachers, allows us to accumulate skies of merit and purifies eons of negative karma. We chant the first 2/3rds of this puja in Tibetan and the last 1/3 we recite in English.
We always recommend bringing offerings of some sort, food, unscented tea lights, flowers, etc, as a way of earning merit. By making donations at, or sponsoring, a specific puja, you are strengthening and empowering the merit you receive in relationship to that puja, in this case the merit we receive by celebrating our gurus and the immeasurable benefit they have offered all sentient beings through their teachings. Generosity is the first of the six perfected qualities of a bodhisattva, planting the seeds to ensure that we will have all the material things necessary in future lives to continue our study of Dharma and working for the benefit of all beings, and this puja is a wonderful opportunity to practice generosity. This does not necessarily mean making more offerings, but rather making offerings that are of high value to you, that you find delightful and want to offer your gurus and all buddhas, quantity and quality being factors but not defining marks for an offering. Offerings are not an obligation but an opportunity, so we encourage you to make the most of it.
All are welcome.
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Will the Gizmodo-iPhone 4 Caper Be the Lisa of Legal Vendettas?
The San Mateo County district attorney's decision not to bring charges against Gizmodo or its parent company Gawker Media in the iPhone 4 prototype caper has left Apple in awkward position. As you may recall, Steve Jobs made it quite clear in an onstage interview at our eighth D: All Things Digital conference in 2010 that he wanted to punish the publication.
"When this whole thing with Gizmodo happened, I got a lot of advice from people who said, 'You've got to just let it slide,'" Jobs said. "'You shouldn't go after a journalist because they bought stolen property and they tried to extort you.' And I thought deeply about this, and I concluded the worst thing that could happen, as we get big and we get a little more influence in the world, is if we change our core values and let it slide. I can't do that. I'd rather quit."
Well, Jobs is still CEO, even though the DA has now let Gizmodo off the hook.
So — as Jobs said he wanted to — will Apple go after the online media site with a civil suit? Or is the company too busy with other legal matters to bother?
Below, video of Jobs talking at D8 about the Gizmodo situation, in full:


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The purpose of this course is to introduce and develop problem solving skills in the use of therapeutic modalities which will include physical agents, manual and mechanical skills. Course content will include both formal lecture and laboratory activities. Required concurrent enrollment in ATR326
Credit Hours: 4
Prerequisites: ATR230
Course Fees: $0.00


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World UFO sightings January 2013 [Part 2 of 2]
Posted by dandare on January 17, 2013
Many of the sightings reported are sensationalized, with usually a lot of information missing.
Please keep this in mind as you view these postings from the local and national press.
I'm afraid many also fail to follow-up on their initial leads, and many reports just remain forgotten.
Some incidents could be UFO balloons (please see: https://dandare.wordpress.com/2007/05/19/ufo-balloons-what-are-they/ for more details, from a previous article).
There are also many other IFOs ( Identified Flying Objects they could be as well).
However, as i have said before, i am not sure what value they are to any UFO research.
Also for real-time UFO map from MUFON see here
Please be patient whilst i catch up on information/links/articles…. thank you.
UFO sightings: ' Black triangle-shaped objects reported by several witnesses (au.ibtimes.com)
" "My grandma and I were driving past Dennys on our way home [when] I caught a glimpse of four shiny metal discs with a V-shaped disc in front [of the formation].
"My grandmother described it as planes flying in formation," the witness continued. "She saw 5 V-shaped objects flying in a V pattern. We [caught the sight] for 15 seconds or less. I was shocked and so was my grandmother " " [extract from article].
An encounter on the dark side of the moon: UFO spottedsoaring above lunar surface in online video (Mail Online)
" Is 2013 the year we finally make contact with our brothers from beyond the stars? One Youtube user certainly seems to think it's a possibility.
The user, danchek2013, has uploaded a video showing footage of at at least one mysterious object zipping about over the surface of the moon.
One of the 'craft' emerges from the shadowy landscape of the moon's surface and then seemingly accelerates over the craters. It then changes direction at breakneck speed towards the bottom of the screen " [extract from article].
They came from outer space (Sky Valley Chronicle)
" The space ships were seen over the motor city last Thursday night. Well, maybe not the actual ships but lights from the ships. People saw the lights.
Strange lights.
"I've been watching the airplanes tonight and it wasn't quite as high as them," eyewitness David Levy told the local Fox 2 news TV reporter. "You could actually see the triangle shape of the object " " [extract from article].
No Syd, you're not alone ( De Void)
" A few weeks ago, a stranger named Syd Young called. Nice guy, 69, lives in Idaho, recently retired from a high-end family boat construction business called StanCraft. Late last year, Young's brother-in-law called his attention to an Internet video he'd never seen or even heard of: Former USAF Capt. Robert Salas was talking about the nuclear-missile shutdown at Malmstrom Air Force Base during a UFO incursion in March 1967. Young's brother-in-law said something like "Weren't you stationed there back then? " " [extract from article].
What goes on at Area 51 ? (history.com)
" Over the years, the CIA, U.S. Air Force and aerospace company Lockheed Martin have all used Area 51 as a staging ground for test flights of experimental aircraft (a.k.a. "black aircraft"). According to documents declassified in 2007, in the 1950s and 1960s Area 51 was home to a top-secret Cold War-era program known as Oxcart, which aimed to develop a spy plane that would be undetectable in the air and could be used for information gathering missions behind the Iron Curtain " [extract from article].
UFOs in Normanton, Wakefield: Aliens or from nearer home? (wakefieldexpress.co.uk)
" THREE mysterious figures dressed in silver suits were seen in a field in Normanton before taking off in a "dull grey" object shaped like a "Mexican hat".
The unusual sighting on July 7, 1980, has been revealed in a new book about UFOs.
And its author is keen to track the family who saw the landing.
Retired policeman John Hanson has compiled volume seven of Haunted Skies (1980), which catalogues everyday reports of UFOs seen in and around the UK skies.
His latest book includes an account in Normanton by Joyce Westerman and her six children, including Sandra, eight. They recounted their encounter to researchers Philip Mantle and Mark Birdsall a few years later " [extract from article].
Something's out there: Orange county Beach Cities Edition (blogs.ocweekly.com)
" Seal Beach was just named by Forbes "the fourth friendliest town in America," which may explain the visitor(s) who caught the eye of a resident last Saturday.
It was an unidentified flying object that was seen the same morning a similar-looking UFO was reported from a resident in nearby Huntington Beach " [extract from article].
Is it a bird? A plane? or an 'UFO'? A mysterious object spotted on the surface of the moon (Independant editor's choice blog)
" Zooming in on the moon's surface, the video shows two small blurry dots flying across the space that has incited humorous, intelligent and equally ridiculous comments. Of course the topic of discussion is what this object might actually be: a sign of extra-terrestrial life, a trick of the eye or an insignificant piece of space debris? " [extract from article].
Nasa caught deleting UFO photos from its website (examiner.com)
" UPDATE: Thanks to alert readers, both the high and low resolution photos of the UFOs depicted in the original series that were posted in the Scott Waring May 2011 article are still available online. It now becomes clear that NASA JSC moved their digital images to different locations " [extract from article].
Calm Down, NASA didn't remove UFO Images (Ghost Theory)
" What's NASA trying to erase? That's what everyone is asking over at the conspiracy web forums.
But what I'm asking is why no one bothered to do a search for the images in the first place. They weren't deleted, they were just moved " [extract from article].
VIDEO: Has a UFO been sighted off Land's End? (This is Cornwall)
" It has left Cornish UFO expert Dave Gillham scratching his head and he is eager to track down the cameraman or anyone else with information.
He said: "Down at Land's End back in the nineties there was quite a big sighting. It was an orange-shaped object shining above three white objects that went out over Paul.
"A lot of people actually saw that, I know it's a different colour but this object went in to it as well.
"The thing that stuck out most (about this object) is the object that came from the ground and went in to it " [extract from article].
Are we being visited? Reader's sharemore UFO tales ( Bundaberg NewsMail)
" Below are a selection of first-hand accounts from people who have witnessed strange lights in the skies over Bundaberg city and surrounding region. All but two are recent.
Christmas night sighting
UPDATE: Since this article was first published, another resident has come forward to recount their tale of a UFO.
A reader said it was about 9.30pm on Christmas night last year when she saw something in the sky at Innes Park " [extract from article].
Did Google street View capture a UFO in Missouri? Experts weigh in on mysterious pink objects seen in skies ( Mail Online)
" A pink domed object captured in the sky by Google Street view is the second UFO sighting by the trolling cameras in mere months according to experts – but that's by going by its literal definition.
The mysterious object seen over the skies of St Peters, Missouri, first caught the attention of a woman looking for directions on the popular search engine along Dingledine Road.
When she pulled the camera's angle a little too high on her computer screen she saw what she felt needed immediate attention " [extract from article]. I usually do not comment on articles, but this is quite obviously lens flare.
UFO over Massachusetts Not Easy For Air Force To Explain Away (Huffington Post)
" It's taken over two weeks for the Air Force to suggest that a UFO reported over Massachusetts may have only been a huge cargo plane, but even they're not sure.
Back on Jan. 8, residents of Amherst and Pelham reported a low-flying unidentified triangular or diamond-shaped object moving slowly and silently between 5:45 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., according to the Daily Hampshire Gazette. (sign up to see story)
"The only aircraft that was operating in the area was a military aircraft doing practice approaches to Westover (Air Reserve Base)," FAA spokesman James Peters told the Gazette " [extract from article].
UFOs swooping down on Cortulla? Group says some can't be explained ( kens5)
" Eagle Ford is a hot spot for oil, but in the past few weeks it has turned into the mother ship for UFO sightings. It seems Cotulla, Texas has become ground zero for UFOs in the past few weeks—if recent YouTube postings can be believed " [extract from article].
Strange sights fuel UFO fears near Eagle Ford (Fuel Fix)
" Three digital images taken Dec. 29 by an unattended wildlife camera on a deer lease near Nixon appear to show a series of anomalies in the sky and near the ground, says Fletcher Gray, deputy investigator with the Strike Team Area Research (STAR) unit of the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON).
The privately run group released the photos this week.
Game cameras sit dormant and are only activated by a motion sensor, which means some form of wildlife — typically a deer — is in the camera's vicinity " [extract from article].
UFO caught on CTV News (posted by huntghosts on youtube- sightings occurred on jan 11th 2013)
UFO: 'Alien pyramid' over Amherst, MA, even Air Force puzzled (Digital Journal)
" Residents are asking how anyone could have mistaken a C5 Galaxy cargo plane, one of the biggest and noisiest planes in the world for a silent, "unusually low" and slow-flying pyramid UFO. While the C5 could have been mistaken for a diamond or triangular-shaped object because of its wings, it is unlikely that observers would have confused the 250 feet long C5 flying low over the sky with a pyramid or diamond-shaped UFO, "the size of two or three cars " " [extract from article].
More than just a starry, starry night (The Flinders News)
" Damien Nott, 33, moved to Dunedoo, north of Mudgee, last year to refurbish the property that used to belong to his grandparents.
Since then, he has been filming the lights, which have also been seen by members of his family.
Mariana Flynn, the president of UFO Research NSW, visited Mr Nott two weeks ago to observe firsthand what he was seeing.
Dunedoo is 100 kilometres from Coonabarabran, scene of this month's bushfires. Because of the lack of light pollution, the region promotes itself as the astronomy capital of Australia " [extract from article].
UFO SHOCKER: ALIEN VIDEO – Expert speaks- The conclusions- Abduction, Government cover up and More (Ringside Report)
" Over the years, I have gotten countless videos of supposed UFOs and secret government alien contact videos. The sad thing is that the majority of these hurt the UFO Truth movement immensely. With the new editing and special effects programs, it is very easy to create something that can almost pass the test…almost. My group has been responsible for debunking over 5000 videos and has been the backbone of the alien abduction awareness movement " [extract from article].
UFO interest wanes after Mulder and Scully demise (The Advocate)
" Reports have been running at 50 a year or less since 2007, and fell to 40 last year.
Keith Roberts, who calls himself the group's secretary, investigation co-ordinator and tea lady – was unconvinced The X Files caused the 1990s spike.
"In the '90s, I don't know … we had some interesting events," he said.
"They [1996] were heady days; that's a call every two days."
There was also a big spike in the 1970s.
Mr Roberts said there was a big lift in UFO reports worldwide in the 1960s and '70s and Tasmania fitted the trend.
"Locally, there's just a whisper now " " [extract from article].
Related articles
- World UFO sightings January 2013 [ part 1 of 2] (dandare.wordpress.com)
- Georgia witness says 'Star Trek' object 500 feet above tree line (examiner.com)
- Are UFOs hovering over the Eagle Ford Shale? (fuelfix.com)
- Was UFO Captured on Photograph? (ufos.about.com)
- Is Nick Pope to be trusted as a ufologist? (dandare.wordpress.com)
- UFO Sighting of Triangle with Night Vision on Sept 1, 2008 (panoffolin.wordpress.com)
5 Responses to "World UFO sightings January 2013 [Part 2 of 2]"
January 17, 2013 at 1:40 am
[…] Many of the sightings reported are sensationalized, with usually a lot of information missing. Please keep this in mind as you view these postings from the local and national press. I'm afraid many also fail to follow-up on their initial leads, and many reports just remain forgotten. Some incidents could be UFO balloons (please see: https://dandare.wordpress.com/2007/05/19/ufo-balloons-what-are-they/ for more […] UFO updates […]
January 18, 2013 at 9:15 pm
[…] World UFO sightings January 2013 [Part 2 of 2] […]
January 26, 2013 at 1:12 pm
[…] World UFO sightings January 2013 [Part 2 of 2] (dandare.wordpress.com) […]
February 4, 2013 at 3:01 am
[…] World UFO sightings January 2013 [Part 2 of 2] (dandare.wordpress.com) […]
March 10, 2013 at 2:41 am
[…] World UFO sightings January 2013 [Part 2 of 2] […]


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Yesterday was a miserable day to be outside.
However, that is right where my entire family was all. day. long. Yard work and garden duties don't stop because the heat index is 110, you know!
The kids cooled off in the pool quite a bit, but did take some time here and there to help us bring in our haul of the day. Have I mentioned what great helpers they are?
Colin mainly helps out with "Lola duty", meaning he keeps her occupied and safe while we work pulling weeds or harvesting. Today, though, he got to bring in a basket full of basil!!
I use the basil to make and freeze pesto*. We love pesto on chicken, pizza, and pasta. When tomatoes are plentiful in the summer, you can not beat them sliced thickly and topped with pesto, then broiled for about 10 minutes in your oven (or on the grill, in foil packets). Oh my goodness--heaven!
*Note: I use grated Parmesan cheese in mine, not Pecorino/Romano. Either works.
We--well, I say 'we' loosely, because actually Shane did all the bean harvesting this time--picked our first batch of green beans. And we had a ton! As you can see, that bowl is about as big as Ethan!
This will make at least seven quarts of canned beans, plus some extra for fresh eating.
We'll pick again in about three days, and have another yield about this size.
We also brought in three heads of broccoli,
a giant bunch of cilantro (center),
several onions (they are small yet, but still taste great!)
and some more garlic.
With all that basil, I needed some help--so we had a basil picking party. The question posed to the boys was, "Who can pick the most leaves off of the stems in 10 minutes?" Not sure exactly who won, but it certainly was a fun way to get the job done.
Then I washed all the leaves and laid them out to dry, overnight. That is one huge pile!
Speaking of huge piles....anyone wanna come over for fresh beans in the next day or so? Whew.
My favorite....cilantro. I use it for everything.
Last night, it was Lime Cilantro chicken and pico de gallo for supper.
The pico de gallo is one of our summer/garden staples.
This bowl--larger than my head--was gone in about 20 minutes. No kidding.
We all love it--kiddos too--and it's a great way to sneak in some veggies.
Many people have flowers on their counter...I have a basil bouquet! *grin*
I put the basil in some water to keep it fresh for lunch today. We had some yummy grilled burgers, corn on the cob, the broccoli we got yesterday from the garden, and used that basil for caprese salad!
{Why yes, there is one missing from the bottom of the platter. I just couldn't wait until after the photo....}
Lola chowing on some broccoli and corn
And today, we're out swimming again, with dinner and fireworks with friends coming up tonight. I love holiday weekends--hope yours is as wonderful as ours has been so far!


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Our mVac medical vacuum systems provide highly reliable medical vacuum for use in operating theaters, intensive care, emergency and respirology units.
Our mVAC systems always come with standby medical vacuum pumps. Each pump has its own individual controller, ensuring full redundancy at all times.
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Effectively manage and optimize your mVAC system with our unique Elektronikon® control system.
mVAC Medical Vacuum Systems consist of 2 to 6 air-cooled, oil-lubricated rotary vane type vacuum pumps and a central controller with an intelligent graphical user interface. The medical vacuum pumps can work independently to provide you with the vacuum flow you need. Our system offers a backup supply in case of failure of individual components.
Looking for other medical gas pipeline equipment and/or medical gas service/installation? Please visit.


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In these half-day tutorials happening Tuesday, July 17, OSCON sponsors will provide an in-depth look at their core technologies and projects. These tutorials are open to all attendees with a badge, even Expo Hall Only attendees. Special prizes and give-aways provide an extra incentive to participate.
For information on exhibition and sponsorship opportunities at the conference, contact Sharon Cordesse at (707) 827-7065 or firstname.lastname@example.com.
View a complete list of OSCON contacts


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Outliers: The Story of Success
Journalist Gladwell has established himself on the nonfiction bestseller lists by breaking down complex social science research into approachable concepts that can spark discussion around water coolers and cafe tables. Some of Gladwell's critics fault him for zeroing in on compelling anecdotes that may not consistently add up to empirical proof, but his flair for narrative serves him well as a reader. Gladwell builds dramatic tension into his storytelling—from the unique childhood of software tycoon Bill Gates to the secrets of success found along the rice fields of ancient China and Japan—making for an engaging listening experience even though the threads may not always tie together into a seamless package. The bonus author interview features some entertaining insights, including Canadian Gladwell's explanation for why so many comedy superstars hail from America's northern neighbor. A Little, Brown hardcover (Reviews, Sept. 22). (Nov.)
Release date: 11/01/2008
Genre: Audio


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Based on an analysis of existing marine World Heritage sites and their distribution among the 18 IUCN marine regions, the Indian Ocean has been identified as one of the regions under-represented on the World Heritage List.
In support of the Global Strategy toward a balanced, credible and representative World Heritage List, a comparative regional assessment is being undertaken in the Indian Ocean. Presently, only two marine World Heritage sites are located in the Indian Ocean region, e.g., iSimangaliso Wetland Park in South Africa, listed in 1999, and Aldabra Atoll in Seychelles listed in 1982.
This comparative regional assessment will focus on the identification and description of potential new marine sites with potential Outstanding Universal Value in the Indian Ocean, and, in particular, in areas under the jurisdiction of: Comoros, France (Mayotte & Reunion Islands), Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, South Africa, and Tanzania.
The project also aims at laying the foundation for a more science-based approach toward identification of new potential marine World Heritage sites and the development of a representative, balanced and credible set of marine sites on the World Heritage List.
It is envisioned that this initiative will assist States Parties with their nomination of marine World Heritage sites, and in particular with their obligations toward illustrative comparative importance of their respective sites at a global scale. The assessment is scheduled to be finalized in June 2011 and will include an expert meeting in the region mid February 2011. A database with relevant literature and information will be hosted by the Flanders Institute for the Sea. The final report will be available on this website end of June 2011.
The project is funded through the Flanders Funds in Trust Agreement with UNESCO.


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US Army Birthday
United States Army!!
On June 14, 1775 the Continental Congress officially created the United States Army, which is now one of the best equipped and technologically advanced military bodies in the world. The Vietnam Center and Sam Johnson Vietnam Archive would like to wish the Army a very happy birthday! Please enjoy some Army items from our collection as we commemorate their 236th birthday.
Oral Histories
OH0184 - Emil Heugatter
(USA) Emil Heugatter served with the United States Army in Vietnam from 1969 to 1970. He served as a Sniper Instructor with the 9th Infantry Division Sniper School near Dong Tam and then served as the NCOIC of the 25th Infantry Division Sniper School near Cu Chi.
OH0163 - Robert Barron
(USA) Robert Barron served with the United States Army in Vietnam from 1968 to 1969. He served with Advisory Team 28 as Senior Advisor in Tuy Hoa District.
OH0822 - Ronald L. Sheffield
(Lt. Col. Ron Sheffield (U.S. Army, retired) discusses his experiences as a helicopter pilot in Vietnam. Sheffield served three tours of duty in Vietnam assigned to the 120th Aviation Company, 145th Aviation Battalion (April 1965-March 1966); with the 334th Aerial Weapons Company (October 1967-April 1968) and with the 68th Assault Helicopter Company (April 1968-October 1968); and as commanding officer of the 334th AWC (October 1971-April 1972) and as secretary of staff with the 1st Aviation Brigade at Long Binh (April-November 1972).
OH0431 - William LeGro
In this interview Col. William E. LeGro describes his military career, which spanned from 1943 until 1977. Entering the military in 1943 as an enlisted soldier, LeGro served in the pacific duringWorld War II and left the military in 1945. In 1949, LeGro returned to the Army as an officer and retired with the rank of Colonel in 1977. During his career in the Army, LeGro served two tours in Vietnam: the first as a G2 with the First Infantry Division from March of 1966 until March of 1967, the second with the Defense Attache Office (DAO) in Saigon, from February of 1973 until the fall of Saigon in April of 1975.
Moving Images
723VI0854 - Army Combat Photographer [Department of the Army Special Photographic Office (DASPO)]
Army Combat Photographer (Archive 1" Reel 614, Story #1, 9/14/81, 13:51)
1040VI1524 - Stimbus - Lai Khe, 1st Division [William Foulke Collection (DASPO)]
Combat camera footage: Hueys taking off; digging a bunker; dustoff
(174th Assault Helicopter Company Association Collection (174th Assault Helicopter Company Association) [2051museum3345])
(Bryan Grigsby Collection (Department of the Army Special Photographic Office (DASPO)) [1048museum0737])
- See Previous Exhibits: 2010
Vietnam Center & Sam Johnson Vietnam Archive
AddressTexas Tech University, Box 41041, Lubbock, TX 79409


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Open Government Program
All Resources
Search a listing of Government of Alberta open datasets and publications. Can't find what you are looking for? Suggest a resource.
Views: 809
March 1, 2018
The Alberta Clean Technology Road Map (CTR) strengthens the connection between the Climate Change Innovation and Technology Framework (CCITF) and the Government of Alberta's current and historic clean innovation-related policy. The document provides an overview of several segments of the Alberta...


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Compare POS Prices Farmington UT
Compare POS Prices Searching for a point of sale system in Farmington UT? Would you like to compare POS prices? Our quick quote form will allow you to easily compare POS prices for businesses in Farmington UT. Simply take 1 minute to answer a few questions, and our providers can quickly determine which point of […]Continue Reading


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Having just launched an Android Jelly Bean update, Samsung is reportedly preparing another software boost for the Galaxy S3 handset.
According to SamMobile, the company plans to extend the reach of the multi-window functionality recently included in the Galaxy Note II.
Multi-window is really a neat feature as it allows for true mobile multi-tasking; not just the ability to switch seamlessly between apps, but to use two apps at the same time.
For example, users can browse the internet using Chrome and send an email using Gmail while both apps are displayed in a split screen.
Welcome addition
The multi-view feature would be a welcome addition for Galaxy S3 owners, given the abundance of screen real estate offered by the 4.8-inch Super AMOLED HD device.
SamMobile claims that the update will arrive by the end of the year and also bring with it some minor stability improvements.
Will Google's special event on Oct. 29 see the announcement of some new Jelly Bean features that could also hitch a ride with this rumoured S3 update?
Check in with TechRadar Monday to find out.


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"One of the handful of American novelists…who can be said to have a 'vision of life.' " —New York Times Book Review
"Richard Yates is among the very truest of American writers. Each of his novels and each story unfalteringly traces our destinies and rescues us from the lost. He sees eye-to-eye with every one of us." —Gina Berriault
"Yates' strongest novel since Revolutionary Road." —Kirkus Reviews


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Lava Iris Pro 30+ Stock Firmware Download
Lava Iris X5 Stock Firmware Download
Thank you for visiting SkyFileOS.com. The firmware that SkyFileOS are going to provide is Android 4.4.2 (KitKat); Android One firmware Lava Iris Pro 30+ Stock Firmware Download). Lava Iris Pro 30+ comes with Android 4.4.2 (KitKat).
About Lava
Lava International. Lava International Limited is an Indian multi-national company in the mobile handset industry. The company was founded in 2009 as an offshoot of a telecommunication venture.
Lava Iris Pro 30+ was launched in Available. Released 2014, August, The phone CPU powered by Quad-core 1.5 GHz, and it comes with 1 GB Ram and 16 GB ROM, microSD, Lava Iris Pro 30+ comes with the Primary Singel 13 MP+ 3 MP selfie camera and powered by Removable Li-Po 2000 mAh battery.
How To Install The Flash File Full Guide:-
1: Extract And Run SP flash tool.
2: Install MTK android USB drivers.
3: Then download Stock Firmware Flash File ROM for your phone from below.
VCOM Drivers(Official Download link)
4: Switch off mobile remove the battery (if removable) reinsert and plug the USB cable in the charging socket.
5: Now open SP flash tool.exe.
6: When SP flash tool open, go to download button in SP flash tool.
7: In the download tab, click on the scatter load button.
8: After locating the scatter tab, click on the download button.
9: Now connect your smartphone with a USB cable and press volume up or volume down key for easy detection (remove and reinsert your phone battery if it is removable)
10: When flashing is completed, a green ring will appear in SP flash tool.
11: Close SP flash tool on your computer and unplug the phone.
12: Power on the phone and enjoy.
13: After the flashing process starts, it might take up to 5–10 minutes. So keep patience and wait.
If you own Lava Iris Pro 30+ smartphone and you are looking for Lava Iris Pro 30+ Stock ROM Firmware File flash to fix your bricked phone, then you are in the right article/post. We are going to guide on how to download and install the official Lava Iris Pro 30+ Stock ROM on your device. This guide is easy and straightforward to follow. We have listed the Lava Iris Pro 30+ Flash File for all models device below. Download the Lava Iris Pro 30+ Stock Firmware file to fix your device.
•Important Suggestion: If your problem not solved by the given solution you can write in comments we will try best to fix as soon as we can.
Read More Post: Samsung Galaxy S10 SM-G9758 Official Update Rom Download


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Welcome to my web site.
As a Master Butcher, chef and one time restaurateur, my passion for good food has now been directed to making a selection of high quality, hand made taste sensations that everyone can enjoy.
With the help of my wife Isobel, I have produced a range of genuine hand made curry pastes, condiments and other speciality foods which we sell through a growing number of selected independent food retailers throughout Victoria, and at various craft markets.
Hand-made speciality foods,produced with passion and sold with pride.


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- • Year: 2007
- • Producer: Les Cailloux
Complimentary Ground Shipping
With very few exceptions, the juice from grapes is naturally clear and colorless. Red wine is produced by a process called maceration, in which the skins, seeds, and stems of the grapes remain in contact with the pressed juice, and give the wine its characteristic red color. Tiny fragments from the grapes remain in red wine after bottling, as sediment, which is why it is usually best to drink your red wines after they have been decanted and allowed to breathe.
The best red wines come from regions where the growing conditions are favorable for the particular grapes being grown there. These growing conditions include the climate and weather, the amount of daily sunlight during the growing season, temperature, soil composition, water, disease resistance, and location (altitude, proximity to large bodies of water and access to vineyards for routine maintenance and inspection for both individuals on foot and necessary equipment).
Red Wine Varieties
City Wine Cellar carries the best domestic and imported red wines come from regions where the growing conditions are most favorable. We stock a collection of the best in Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Malbec, Amarone, Shiraz (or Syrah), Chianti, Bordeaux, Rioja, Barolo, Brunello di Montalcino, Red Wine Blend, and other vintage red wines! We look forward to helping you make the best selection from our wine inventory.
If you have a question about any of the wines we carry, please don't hesitate to contact us.
When you are shopping for white wine online, you don't need to sacrifice quality for money. At City Wine Cellar, we are no normal wine shop; we want your online experience to be as good as our retail experience. Here are some things to keep in mind when you are shopping for your next white wine.
White wines come in many style and varietals. The body, flavor, and color of white wine can vary because of the type of grape and whether or not oak is used to age the wine. Generally speaking, the more golden the color of a white wine, the longer the wine has been in oak. White wines that have not been aged in oak will be lighter and crisper in flavor. White wines do not need to be decanted, although it still helps to let them breathe.
Whether you are shopping online for a fine white wine to pair with seafood or a light meal, or whether your tastes lean towards a sweet dessert wine, City Wine Cellar has you covered. We stock only the best white wines, from regions that are most suited to them. We encourage you to browse our collection of Riesling, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, White Wine Blends and other white wines.
Dry white wines are aromatic and tangy, while sweet white wines tend to be fruity and rich. White wine is often consumed as an aperitif before a meal, with desserts, or between courses. As a rule, white wine is supposed to feel refreshing and light in the mouth, while red wine tends to feel heavier. White wines are ideal refreshments during warm weather.
Sometimes you want more than just a simple red or white wine to accompany your meal or celebration. Here is where you can find our unique selection of other wines, including sweet dessert wines including port, madiera, and ice wines, fruit wines including arbor mist, plum wine, and Bokbunja, or excellent rice wines like Japanese sake and shochu, Korean soju and nang ju, and wines from China.
Liquor refers to any kind of distilled alcoholic beverages, including whiskey, vodka, brandy, rum, and tequila. When a liquor is distilled, it is heated until it becomes a gas, which is then cooled through a tube before being returned to its liquid state. The distillation process removes excess water, increasing the concentration of flavor and alcohol in the liquor. Although distillation is a complicated process, distilled liquors are popular for their sweetness, their complex flavor profiles, and their ability to mix well in cocktails.
City Wine Cellar is proud to carry a wide variety of liquors, spirits, and liqueurs, including Anise-Flavored liquor from all over the world, brandy made from distilled wine, cognac, cordials made with various fruits, herbs, spices, and flowers, gin made with a variety of herbs and flavorings, pre-mixed cocktails made using a variety of classic recipes; spiced, white, and dark rum; silver, reposado, añejo and gold tequila, vodka from Russia, France, and all around the world; and the best in single malt, blended, Irish, Canadian, Bourbon and rye whiskeys.


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OAKLAND — BART trains will keep rolling — for now — after the commuter line and its unions reached a deal Thursday night to extend contract talks for another three days.
Union leaders told their members to report to work Friday but warned that a new deadline to avert a strike loomed for Sunday night. They provided a formal 72-hour notice of a strike for Monday morning if a deal is not reached before then.
The 60-day cooling-off period ordered by Gov. Jerry Brown expired at 11:59 p.m. on Thursday and the unions had refused to say whether they would go on strike Friday morning without a deal. Just 15 minutes before that deadline, however, the unions emerged from the negotiating table and read a statement announcing they would stay on the job for a few more days.
The unions said they were encouraged that elected legislative leaders and BART directors were getting involved in the talks and that General Manager Grace Crunican was set to arrive at the bargaining table on Friday morning after she previously delegated negotiating duties to others.
"The unions are continuing to negotiate and (we) hope to avoid a strike," said Roxanne Sanchez, president of the local Service Employees International Union. "We want to get this done. The 72-hour notice (for Monday) is because the public is expecting to know something. Everybody wants to know how this will end."
Talks resumed Friday morning.
"We are grateful the Bay Area will not be impacted by our unions for the next few days and that the trains will be running while we continue to negotiate," BART spokesman Rick Rice said in a statement.
Antonette Bryant, president of the local Amalgamated Transit Union, said "there was no significant movement" Thursday in negotiations.
The temporary truce postpones a battle that has already been raging for six months and has resulted in one rail shutdown, two more threatened strikes and plenty of anxiety for Bay Area commuters.
BART did not actually present a new offer to the unions Thursday after announcing one was forthcoming earlier in the day. According to Rice, the unions said they were "not ready" for a new proposal.
BART's board of directors, which would need to approve a new labor contract, postponed a special evening board meeting until Friday at 10 a.m. because there was no deal to be voted on Thursday.
On Thursday morning, at the regularly scheduled board meeting, union members blasted agency leaders as they have time and again. The BART directors then met in closed session before telling chief negotiator Thomas Hock to submit a new proposal.
Starting this week, at the suggestion of mediators, both sides agreed to a blackout on the contents of the latest proposals as they continued to fight over wage increases and other issues. Still, heading into the day, the union's chief negotiator said both sides were now about $16 million apart — or half the figure the workers quoted last week.
Another all-day negotiation session ended on a sour note Wednesday night when the two unions representing 2,300 blue-collar workers issued a statement indicating they were close to a deal before management "pulled the rug from underneath" them by taking back a recent offer.
BART denied that and blamed it on a miscommunication.
The average line-level employee at BART made $76,500 in gross pay last year, the most of any transit agency in the state. Workers do not contribute toward their pensions and pay $92 a month toward health care regardless of how many dependents they have.
Workers have agreed to pay more toward their benefits but say they deserve a raise because they have not received a meaningful pay increase in more than four years, even as BART's rider and tax revenues have soared to record levels. But management says its needs to keep employee costs under control as it tries to buy rail cars and make billions of dollars of upgrades to expand service and keep the 40-year-old system running adequately.
A BART proposal made public late last week offered 10.25 percent in pay increases and pension contributions of 4 percent over four years. The two unions had countered with the equivalent of 18.4 percent pay increases. The gap between the proposals amounted to about $1,500 in pay increases per year for the average union employee.
Polls have repeatedly shown the public disapproves of a strike and favors management's latest offer. A SurveyUSA poll commissioned by KPIX, which was released Wednesday, showed that among respondents who were keeping up with the negotiations, 54 percent said the unions should accept BART's offer. Just 16 percent thought management should cave. Twenty-two percent wanted them to continue negotiating.
Negotiations began more than six months ago, on opening day of the Oakland A's season. Since then, the war of words and constant disagreement have frustrated Bay Area commuters and led to calls for state legislators to ban BART strikes.
The unions went on strike for 4½ days in July and twice had threatened strikes in August averted by Brown. But no one outside the talks can step in to stop a strike now.
BART, which carries about 200,000 people round trip each day, sees its rider counts grow 30 percent in October compared with the summer. Even so, the July shutdown, which was the first since 1997, slowed freeways and bridges to a crawl and forced standing-room-only on buses and ferries.
Staff writers Matthias Gafni, Rick Hurd and Doug Oakley contributed to this report. Contact Mike Rosenberg at 408-920-5705. Follow him at twitter.com/RosenbergMerc.
BART: Would run charter buses from the East Bay to San Francisco from 5 a.m. to 8 a.m. BART lots and garages would be available free as carpool staging areas. The white-curb passenger loading zones could be used as casual carpool pickup and drop-off locations.
Ferries: Additional ferry service from Vallejo, Oakland, Alameda/Main Street and Alameda/Harbor Bay.
Trucks OK on I-580: Ban on big rigs from San Leandro to Oakland lifted from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays.
Carpool hours: Extended to 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. on I-80 between Carquinez Bridge and Bay Bridge; I-680 from north of I-580 to Benicia Bridge; I-880 from San Jose to Bay Bridge; toll plazas at Bay, Carquinez, Benicia, San Mateo and Dumbarton bridges; Highway 84 between Fremont and Dumbarton Bridge; Highway 92 between Hayward and San Mateo Bridge.
More info: Call 511 or visit alert.511.org


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Practical. A kate hudson short haircut is, of course, much more practical than long hair. Of course, if we are not talking about a fashionable extraordinary haircut that requires a long and complex styling. Otherwise, short hair, kate hudson short haircut, is easier to lay, quicker to dry, and they do not need special care. This time saving is especially pleasant for those people who work – and in the mornings you are going faster, and in the evenings, when you just want to relax, you do not have to spend time on different masks and treatments. So, kate hudson short haircut!
Yes, as we have said above, the majority agrees with the statement that long hair is a sign of a womans sexuality, but the majority is not everything. There are men who are short-haired women, kate hudson short haircut, who seem incredibly seductive.
In addition, for some people short haircuts, kate hudson short haircut, go longer than long hair. Although, of course, you will never know this until you try, practice shows that most of them are worth trying. But be sure to choose a good hairdresser. However, even if the haircut is unsuccessful, do not be sad, because in the end, the hair grows quickly.
If you ask any good hairdresser about how often you need to cut your hair, he will answer – it is desirable to trim the hair to the floor a centimeter each month – this is a guarantee of their health. We also all know that if you regularly cut your hair, they grow faster, and in general, they feel lighter. So, do kate hudson short haircut and be happy!


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In our continuing quest to put to rest the fruitless debate between the two college entry behemoths, we give you the definitive answer to which test you should take.
After all talk is over and after all the pros and cons have been listed, the one and only difference you need to worry about is which test you do better on!
No matter what the group statistics imply, no matter what your friends have done, no matter who was admitted with which scores last year, all that matters is which test provides you the best opportunity to demonstrate to colleges your ability to do well at their school.
How to find out which you'll do better on
The best way to figure out which test you'll do better on is to take a full length official practice test of each. I know it sucks and is a lot of work but there is no better way to find out how you'll perform. The good news is that you can do it for free. The College Board posts a PDF of a practice test you can download here and ACT puts a free one in the registration booklet which can be downloaded here. You can also get a free registration booklet in the college office of most high schools.
If you really can't bring yourself to take a full test and you've taken the PSAT, you can just take the ACT and compare your ACT score to your PSAT score (or do the same with the PLAN and the SAT). But remember that the PSAT and the PLAN are not exactly the same as their "older brother" tests, which makes the comparison a little more dubious.
Also remember to try to simulate the testing environment as much as possible or even go somewhere and have the test proctored if you can (if you're in NYC you can arrange to come to our office).
How to compare the ACT and SAT
Comparing the tests should be a pretty simple process. All you need has already been provided for you in this post. Let's just put the steps together:
1. Wake up early one weekend morning (hopefully in the summer before your junior year) and take that full length ACT you downloaded. Write down your scores. (You should go back to bed at that point).
|Scaled Score
ACT (composite)
2. Wake up early a week or two later and take your full length downloaded SAT. Now you know how you did on each test and all that remains to do is compare them.
|Scaled Score
ACT (composite)
3. To compare the tests, just click here to view the "concordance" chart developed by the makers of the test themselves.
|Scaled Score
|Converted Score
ACT (composite)
When you compare the scores, look at them in terms of the test you know best. Since we're based in NYC, we'll look at SAT numbers. My ACT score is 1030 and my SAT score is 950. This tells me that if I do no additional preparation, I can "expect" to do 80 points better on the ACT and that the ACT is clearly the "better" test for me.
Decision made! Prep for and take the ACT.
Other factors to think about
Since its not always that cut and dry, we do have to point out a few things to consider:
1. If your scores are less than 50 points apart on the two tests, you don't really have a performance difference. You should just take the test you like better and feel more comfortable with.
2. If you have no access to prep. Some areas still only have prep for one of the two tests available (or available in your budget). It's usually better to go with the test you can get help prepping for, unless you have more than 200 points difference between your two scores. If we assume that you'll get about 50 – 100 points out of a typical SAT prep class (or 120 – 180 from one of ours), then if your initial SAT score is 100 points lower than your initial ACT score, I'd still plan to take the SAT (along with the prep).
3. If you have to take a particular test anyway, then just prep for and take that test. Some school districts give one of the tests to all high school juniors and seniors free of charge and during the school day. If your school district does this, it will be more convenient to just take the test the school gives.
4. Finally, if you are applying to schools that require SAT Subject Tests, you might be better off taking the ACT. Some of those schools waive the subject tests requirements if you take the ACT.
Good luck!


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It took all of two days for Evander Holyfield to face eviction on the British version of Celebrity Big Brother after the former heavyweight champ told a housemate that homosexuality was "abnormal" and a condition that could be "fixed" like "a handicapped person."
You can watch the whole segment above, but it's really stupid. Holyfield makes almost no sense in attempting to respond to Luisa Zissman's question about whether there are any gay boxers; insisting that being gay "is a choice," he launches into a bizarre comparison to disabled people.
Holyfield somehow managed to escape eviction, and a spokesperson for the program released the following statement:
Evander was told that his views weren't shared by a large section of society and that expressing those views and the language he used could be seen as extremely offensive to many people. He was warned to think carefully about repeating them. Evander understood and accepted this.
Meanwhile, Holyfield's snoring has managed to annoy the rest of his housemates.
[Channel 5]


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Baumber Surname Ancestry Results
Our indexes 1000-1999 include entries for the spelling 'baumber'. In the period you have requested, we have the following 14 records (displaying 1 to 10):
Try these...
baulme bauln baulom baulsford baulsom baulson bault baultbee baultonsburn baultwood baulu baulus bauly baum bauman baumander baumann baumatz baumbach baumback baumberg baumberger baumbiry baumborough baumbrough baumbton baumburgh baumby baume baumeforth baumeister baumer baumerbaumgarten baumert baumes baumester baumeyer baumfeld baumfeud baumfield
These sample scans are from the original record. You will get scans of the full pages or articles where the surname you searched for has been found.
Your web browser may prevent the sample windows from opening; in this case please change your browser settings to allow pop-up windows from this site.
Research your ancestry, family history, genealogy and one-name study by direct access to original records and archives indexed by surname.


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The Lodge Hoody is ideal for backcountry activities, featuring a full hood, drop-tail hem and a extra nylon ripstop shell provides further protection. This hoody has lower handwarmer pockets, a Napoleon chest pocket and interior security pocket. Easily packs into the interior pocket and doubles as a travel-friendly pillow.
Shop more Mens Lodge Hoody styles
Made in Canada
Slim fit.
Canada Goose is a world leader in luxury apparel, designing parkas, lightweight down jackets, vests, knitwear and accessories fit to withstand urban strolls to extreme arctic conditions. All parkas are made in Canada using ethically-sourced down and fur.
We pride ourselves on being an Authorized Dealer of Authenic Canada Goose® products. We receive our products direct from Canada Goose® through their New Zealand Distributor, Alpine Distribution, based here in Queenstown.
Visit Canada Goose's Counterfeit page and enter "tehuianz.com" to see that we're a Vierified Retailer - Click here
可享受免税购物 | 提供免费全球特快邮寄服务 | Te Huia是由Wallace & Gibbs家族经营的超过30年的新西兰本地时装零售店, 在皇后镇和箭镇各有一家实体门店。是加拿大鹅的授权经销商,在南半球拥有最全的加拿大鹅款式
我们提供中文服务, 欢迎添加微信咨询选购
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We make tax free shopping easy! Simply add your favourite products to your cart and checkout. Once you select your shipping country, all orders leaving New Zealand will receive the "Excl. Tax" price. Please note all orders leaving New Zealand may incur duty and import taxes. All applicable fees are the responsibility of the receiver.
We ship orders Monday-Friday (excluding NZ public holidays), from receiving your order from our Arrowtown store. All orders are sent with a fully tracked service. Once your order has shipped, you will receive an email containing the Tracking Number. Be sure to check your junk/spam folder in case it lands there. If you've asked to receive a text notification, you'll receive a text as well with the tracking details.
Please refer to our Online Returns & Exchanges Policy. Please note that Sale items are not eligible for return or exchange. If you have any questions regarding sizing or fit, please contact us.
All orders shipping to New Zealand, Australia or the UK can pay using Laybuy. Simply select "Pay by Laybuy" at checkout. Learn more about Laybuy here.
We appreciate all of our loyal customers and want to reward them with a Loyalty Program that you can use across all of our six shops in Arrowtown & Queenstown.
For every full $100 NZD spent instore or online, you will receive $5 loyalty.
When you make an order on www.tehuianz.com, you are automatically added to our instore loyalty if your order qualifies.
If you'd like to redeem your points online, simply EMAIL US and we'llset up an online code for you to use.
During TRIPLE LOYALTY Promotions you will earn 3x the normal loyalty.
Loyalty is only earned on full-priced items and non-Laybuy purchases.
Unfortunately you cannot see your loyalty balance when you login to your account.
Or 6 weekly interest free payments from $152.16 today & 5 weekly interest free payments of $240.00 with what's this?


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Magnolia Ice Cream's Gold Label newest flavor—Wintermelon Milk Tea
One Peso City Blends Coffee await you on July 11
These Local Artists Bring the Characters From our Filipino Myths to Life
The Tanghalang Pilipino Productions You Can Watch Online
DOT Pays Tribute to All The "Noypi" HealthWorkers Around the World
You Can Now Get Free Mobile Legends Game Credits on Viber
These YouTube Creators Teach Us What We Need to Know About Social Inclusivity
Everyday Products to Solve Your Very Specific Female Dilemmas
What we Learned From Our Childhood Street Games
Dear Women: Manila is a Tough City
Commuter Diaries: The Things I Never Thought I'd Miss From the 'Old Normal'
UE Jam Sessions pay tribute to the frontliners with original song, "Lalaban Tayo"
Learn Theater and the Art of Costume Design With Repertory Philippine's Online Workshops
Prove You Are The Ultimate K-Fan and Get a Chance To Win A BTS Phone
"Travel On Fund" Helps Partners Globally Revitalise Their Businesses
Learn The Art of Theater At Home With PETA's Online Workshops
These Hangouts are Perfect For Discovering Your Creativity
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MONTREAL - Maria Pantazopoulos had a lot to be happy about.
The 30-year-old woman had recently bought a house in Laval, started working as a real estate agent with Via Capitale, got married June 9, and went on a honeymoon in the Caribbean.
"She was really, really happy," said family friend Leeza Pousoulidis.
Pousoulidis said her friend wanted a way to immortalize her dress, and was excited to take pictures with it in Rawdon on Friday afternoon, as part of a growing trend called trash the dress, in which brides pose for pictures in their wedding dresses, often in unconventional settings like in bodies of water.
"She's a really fun girl, and she just didn't want her wedding dress sitting in a box in the closet," Pousoulidis said. "She said 'I want to have fun with my wedding dress. I want to have great pictures and memories of me in my wedding dress.'"
But that photo shoot proved deadly. As Pantazopoulos waded into the water of the Ouareau River in Rawdon, 75 kilometres northeast of Montreal, her dress filled up and weighed her down, causing her to drown.
"She had her wedding dress on and she said, 'take some pictures of me while I swim a little bit in the lake,' she went in and her dress got heavy, I tried everything I could to save her," photographer Louis Pagakis told CTV News. "I jumped in; I was screaming and yelling; we tried our best."
On Saturday, Pagakis was too distraught to speak with media, so his girlfriend, Anouk Benzacar, answered questions on his behalf.
"They were shooting a few where the water was shallow, and then she wanted to take a picture floating," Benzacar said, adding that Pantazopoulos moved out to a deeper part of the river where she could not touch the bottom. "The dress was getting heavy, so (Pagakis) went in to try move her (back to a shallow part of the river)."
She said Pantazopoulos grabbed Pagakis and was pulling him under with her, so it was impossible to bring her back to shore. Pagakis tried several times to rescue her, but eventually, Pantazopoulos ran out of strength and let go.
"When she let go, he freaked," she said. "He dove to try to find her, but he couldn't."
The incident occurred about 2 p.m. Friday. Two police officers arrived on the scene, took off their uniforms and jumped into the water to find her, SQ Sgt. Claude Denis said. Eventually an avid scuba diver from the area, who had heard the news about the accident, arrived with his gear and found the woman's body about 4:30 p.m.
At Pantazopoulos's workplace, a colleague said they were "bowled over" by the news.
"She was really well liked by everyone here," said real estate agent Johanne Grenier. "For us, today is a really sad day."
Pousoulidis said Pantazopoulos had a dynamic personality.
"She was a strong, tough girl. She was very petite, but she was strong in character and in physical strength as well. She was very happy and caring. She had a big heart."
She leaves behind her husband, her parents and a brother.
"The family is destroyed," Pousoulidis said, but added that family members are grateful for the hard work done by the Sûreté du Québec, and first responders in Rawdon.
Twitter: @JasonMagder


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Just stepping in to say hello. My name is Kim and I am a writer and mostly closeted recently de-converted from Christianity atheist. Looking for interesting discussions, interesting people, and a place to connect with other atheists. Hi ya!
Views: 306
Hello Kim and welcome: nice to meet you. If you don't mind me asking, what factors convinced you to renounce Christianity and abandon God belief? For me it started with a visit to the Church of the Holy Sepulchral in Jerusalem while I was in the Navy. The ship tied up in Haifa Israel and the command let the crew have shore liberty where I took a bus tour that dropped us off at the Church for a brief visit. After paying the admission fee and waiting through the line of tourists, a priest ushered me into The Empty Tomb. There I prayed and asked Jesus to reveal himself to me. Over the next 15 years, I remained a nominal Christian despite that Heaven was brass. Finally, I started reading pop science books and then it dawned on me that I no longer believed any of it. Although strangely, I can still preform glossolalia, a remnant of my early pre-navy religious experience. A link to my detailed deconversion story is on my profile page if you've any interest in that sort of thing. Best Wishes and Regards.
Hi Robert. Since I have left Christianity, I find it helpful to talk with others who have done the same thing, so I am happy to reply. By your first sentence, I thought you were a rogue Christian on this site to try and save me!! But I see you aren't. So anyway, I was raised Presbyterian, where they are not very emotional about faith, and don't evangelize much. As a teenager, I joined Youth for Christ which is very evangelical and I followed suit. I married an evangelical, and we were in whole hog. I believed in hell, satan, salvation by faith alone, everything. We even raised money from all our Christian friends, family, and churches to go as quasi "missionaries" to work for the evangelical ministry Kingdom Building Ministries. I was a writer for them. Thank goodness they never published anything I wrote. We ran out of support money and had to move home to Indianapolis. My husband had gone into very liberal Christianity, and I feared for his salvation. Then, quite out of the blue one day, I started to think about hell. Did I really believe all these people weren't going to heaven? Was I really walking by people all day long who were unsaved and would spend eternity burning? I started to read online everything I could about the subject, and I think for many people, that is where it ends---reading. Actually taking in other viewpoints besides Christians viewpoints. I read and read. I have a boring job, so I read all day online. I progressed to reading about the Bible, and learned (even though I had gone to a Christian college and taken Bible classes) how the Bible was actually put together. I saw that the synoptic gospels were very different than John, and it is only in John where Jesus claims to be God, and our salvation, and John isn't respected by many. I had no idea! Then the dam just broke. Everything fell to pieces. I stopped believing that Jesus was God, which was devastating to me, I had lost my imaginary friend who was supposedly protecting me from the scary world. I remember saying to my husband, "So Jesus loves me this I know, isn't true?" That brought a lot of tears. Then I lost faith that there was even a God at all, of any type. Now it has been a year, and I am relieved of the guilt associated with letting people go to hell, of trying to pray right and read the Bible enough, and from the weirdness of a God who can read your thoughts and punish you for your thoughts. So, here I am. Not a child of God anymore, but very happy. It is just a matter of coming out of the closet with evangelical family and friends. Not sure how that will all work out. I hope I didn't go on too long. Thanks for asking about my experience. I will read yours.
Hello Kim and good morning. Thank you for your well written and thoughtful reply. I assure you that your response was not too long, and one point in particular jogged my mind. When you wrote " I believed in ... salvation by faith alone...", I was immediately reminded that Evangelical Christianity holds just what you wrote. It, however, fails to acknowledge that faith is a cognitive work. So actually, Evangelical Protestantism teaches salvation by works, albeit cognitive works. Its just another of those little things that help awaken the mind. But ignore my drivel and celebrate your life and new found intellectual freedom. Cheers! and Best Wishes Too.
I'm curious I imagine you get lots of chain emails and newsletters about god how have you handled them so far?
Hi Jared,
Do you mean from Christian friends and family? I actually don't get a lot of that. It is more their Facebook posts that I just ignore. I had said something about my husband being sweet on Valentine's Day, and my friends posted "You were a match made in Heaven." I wanted to reply, but she sincerely believes that, and I wouldn't know what to say anyway. I am pretty closeted, my parents are atheists now (which is great) but not my grandparents and some friends. They all still think I am a raging Christian. It's awkward. I'll have to tell them sometime soon, and then maybe they will stop with the religious birthday cards and stuff. We'll see. Do you have a problem with that?
Hello, welcome and WOW! that was interesting. Can't say I had any sort of crisis that brought me around. I was 12 maybe even 11 attending Catholic Schools and I just knew it was mostly nonsense. It literally did not make sense. It wasn't logical, just or believable. I had attended public schools for K-3. Fourth grade was a mild transition to inferior education and bible stories all morning. In 5th grade, the teacher had a surprise quiz on the 10 commandments. I didn't know them and she made a point of saying to the rest of the class that I was an example of what you miss in public schools. Truth be told, I doubt either of my parents were religious. My sister isn't and my kids aren't. I'd say it was genetics but I have some cousins that are over the top with it. How they believe what they do is a mystery to me.
I find this site to be a breath of fresh air and I find myself thanking Morgan Matthew before every meal. :-)
Hi Evan, Thanks for the note! Kim
Hello Kim, I'm Dennis also somewhat new here. What topics are you looking for to discuss? Do you have favorites like evolution, science, christianity islam etc?
Hello, Dennis. I seem to be fixated on Christianity, since I came from that and it is all around me. I don't feel the need to challenge Christians on their beliefs, so I am not exactly boning up on my atheist apologetics. However, I do like reading about how and why other people left Christianity, and what other people think about Christianity. I am not interested in negativity, so sometimes that is hard to find! I like to talk about what it is like to be an atheist, share reading suggestions, stuff like that.
Thanks for asking! Kim
Hi Kim, welcome and I hope you enjoy your time here. I am lucky, I come from a largely atheist country, and was raised to think for myself while viewing religions as a rather sad relic of a miss spent past. As a result I find myself often both amazed and enraged at the accounts of those in what should be enlightened countries who face intolerance and even discrimination simply because they dare to think for themselves and be atheist.
Anyway, enjoy.
Judith vd R.
Hello Kim...Welcome to Think Atheist... It's great to have you here :)
Best wishes,
Hi Hope, I appreciate the kind note!! Kim


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We recently celebrated my son Ethan's 7th Birthday. Ethan chose a Knight theme and invited a few of his closest little friends to help him celebrate. I always enjoy the kids parties but I have to say this was the best party ever! Not the set up (though I was stoked with how it turned out) but it was just such a good time. Such a beautiful group of kids and parents and the kids were all singing and laughing and had a ball, made me truly happy!
Ethan was very particular about what he wanted for his party and wanted a sit down 'feast' as close to what they would have had in medieval times and it definitely had to include a 'big chook'. With Ethan being coeliac all of the party food was gluten free and we set up the feast table to include chicken, meatballs, bread rolls, ham, cheese, crackers, fruit, muffins & banana bread. We used the most beautiful candelabras from The Mercedes Project to decorate the table and the kids loved using the fun jewelled drinking goblets.
As we had the feast table we opted for a simple dessert table with a few yummy sweets and the birthday cake. Our room as decorated with various medieval props and decorations to create the look of a dining hall.
We had a whole heap of blow up swords for the kids to play with and we also played bobbing for apples which was so funny and the kids loved and then the regular pass the parcel and pinata.
We had a fantastic time celebrating Ethan's birthday and would like to say a huge thanks to all the gorgeous ladies who supplied goodies for the day! (vendor credits below)
Hope you enjoy the photos!
My gorgeous birthday boy Ethan.
Desserts Table
Fantastic Knight & Dragon Cookies from Kate's Cookies
Gold Meringues & Caramel Slice
Gold Meringues and delish chocolate brownies from NikNak's Sweetest Treats
Yummy cupcakes from Niknaks Sweetest Treats &
Amazing Cupcake Toppers from Memories are Sweet
Dragon Birthday Cake, made by us from the Cake 2 The Rescue cake kit
The 'feast' table
Beautiful candelabras hired from The Mercedes Project
Our gorgeous tiffany chairs dressed up with some hessian chair covers
Beautiful candelabras hired from The Mercedes Project
Medieval Large Banners, Shield & Axes, Stocks & Throne hired from Propagander
My gorgeous munchkins.
Styling, party supplies, tiffany chairs, tables, props, decorations - Piece of Cake Parties & Celebrations
Photography - Lightbox Photography
Cupcakes, Brownies - Niknaks Sweetest Treats
Cupcake Toppers - Memories are Sweet Lolly Buffets
Candelabras Hire - The Mercedes Project
Medieval Banners large, throne, wine barrel, stocks, shields Hire - Propagander
Gold Sequin Tablecloth Hire - My Sweet Occasion
Dragon & Knight Cookies - Kate's Cookies
Dragon Cake Kit - Cake 2 The Rescue
Knight Statue on dessert table purchased from - Vintage Narnia Style


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This tasty dish "dresses up" the meal - serve it on the side or as a light vegetarian entrée.
Preparation Time: 15 mins
Cooking Time: 1 hr
Yield: 6 x 1/2 squash servings
Preheat the oven to 350ºF.
Cut each squash in half crosswise. Scoop out and discard the seeds and strings. If necessary, trim the top and bottom so that the squash will sit level, and place on a rimmed baking sheet, cut side up. Sprinkle each half with a little salt, pepper, and nutmeg, to taste. Using 2 tablespoons of the butter, dot each half with some butter.
Cover the pan tightly with foil and bake the squash just until moist and tender, about 45 minutes.
Meanwhile, combine the rice, chicken broth, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 2 cups of water, in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to a bare simmer, partially cover, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender, about 40 minutes. When the rice is done most of the water should be evaporated.
Spray a 10-inch sauté pan with cooking spray; heat over medium heat. Sauté the onion, garlic, celery, and carrot until slightly softened, about 3 minutes. Add the pears and sauté 2 minutes longer. Cover the pan, adjust the heat to medium-low, and cook the vegetables until crisp-tender, 3 minutes longer. Add the sage, thyme, and parsley and sauté 1 more minute. Remove from the heat.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed vegetables and pears, walnuts (see below), and dried cranberries. Mound the rice mixture into the squash halves, dividing it evenly. Cut the remaining tablespoon of butter into small pieces. Dot each stuffed squash with butter. Cover with foil. Bake in preheated oven until heated through, about 20 minutes.
TOASTING WALNUTS: Toasting nuts brings out their full, rich flavor. Place the nuts in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350ºF oven until lightly browned, about 5 to 8 minutes.
Alternatively, the nuts can be browned in a microwave. Place the nuts in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate, and microwave on high power for 2 to 3 minutes, or until lightly browned. Watch carefully that they dont burn.
For a richer dish, use 4 tablespoons of butter instead of 3; replace cooking spray with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
* VEGETARIAN VERSION: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken and, if desired, buttery spread for butter. Add additional vegetarian protein to the dish or meal.
For a vegetarian holiday meal, serve this dish along side of Tofurky or other vegetarian protein dish.
Serving suggestions are not included in the nutritional analysis.


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Nick Says: Hello! Sorry for the slight pause there on the blog – turns out getting married (woohoo!) and then moving your entire life to the other side of the world is fairly time consuming. But we have lots to talk about, so let's get started…
While we may have travelled for months at a time over the years, neither me or Bee have ever lived permanently in another country. About the closest I've come was 6 months in Australia, where I rented a room in Melbourne for 2 of them. But setting a up a home somewhere else? Brand new territory. So how can I sum it up so far? Exhilarating, terrifying, overwhelming, incredible. The superlatives are endless. And the cliche true by the way, visiting somewhere and living there are very different things.
At some point, we will do a 'how to' guide for those who move to the USA – we've had to work out lots of things that would have been handy to know, from getting a social security number, to leasing a car, and finding an apartment. But for now, let's give you highlights of what we've been up to in since moving here.
Moving to Los Angeles so soon after our wedding meant we had to put our Honeymoon plans on ice for a bit (yes, I realise California isn't a terrible alternative…). But we still wanted to decompress and celebrate our new marriage a bit, so we took our first weekend here to drive 2 hours south down to Laguna Beach. It was truly magical, and the perfect introduction to our new life as Californians. A beachside resort down in the O.C. Laguna Beach feels very much like an outsiders view of California distilled. It's got the beautiful beaches, the beautiful sunkissed people (some with more work than others), the laid-back arty vibe, with the local gallery showcasing paintings of a giant grasshopper riding a motorbike down the Pacific Coast Highway, and some of the most dramatic sunsets I've seen in a long time, and as anyone who travels knows, you see a lot of sunsets. So take my word for it, these are very special.
We decided to treat ourselves and stayed at the Casa Laguna Inn & Spa, which was set a little bit out of the main town. During summer months though, a free trolley bus operates up and down the PCH, with a stop just outside the hotel, which meant we could ride to where all the bars and restaurants were located incredibly easily. The trolley itself looks like something from the beginning of the automobile age, made of wood and with no windows. Enjoy that sea breeze!
As well as sunning ourselves on golden beaches, eating incredible food such as crab stuffed jalapeños wrapped in bacon washed down with jalapeño margaritas from fancy Mexican restaurant Carmelita's, or having dessert generously paid for by a couple who sat next to us at another fancy restaurant (as a welcome to the USA gift!), we also stopped for lunch at a super cute diner just down the road, which required us to possibly illegally trespass over a fence into what seemed to be a school, in order to reach it by foot. They do not make things easy for pedestrians over here.
When not stuffing our faces (USA! USA!) we found time to enjoy the hotel. From our little balcony at the back of our room, we had a view of the Pacific Ocean. Mornings would find us sat here at the little table and chairs provided with a cup of coffee each just admiring the view and not quite believing any of this was real. Despite being on the highway, the hotel felt amazingly secluded and peaceful. Done up in Spanish colonial revival style, they brilliantly told us the historic part of the house was from the 1920s (our flat in London was from the early 19th Century I believe). Getting fully into the relaxed zen vibe, Bee had booked us onto a 'togetherness' massage – which meant we were massaged while lying next to each other. I think it was meant to be extremely romantic, but we were far too English to fully relax ha! Much better was the bit after where they turned on the hot tub, which is outside and also overlooks the Pacific Ocean, and gave us a bottle of champagne. So we downed the bubbles, and watched the sunset from our own private jacuzzi. One week in and we'd changed.
Of course, it hasn't all been swigging champers in hot tubs and enjoying the beach. We've also been exploring L.A. Which due to the fact it was about 40 degrees when we got here, actually did mean enjoying the beach. Making the most of our rental car, we spent the next weekend up in Malibu, an easy 45 minute drive north up the Pacific Coast Highway, with spectacular views of the ocean to keep you occupied while sat in the occasional traffic jam. While Zuma beach is probably my favourite, a wide expanse of golden sand which you can walk along for miles, and never feels crowded despite its popularity, a little treasure trove of a beach is definitely Paradise Cove. To avoid the $40 parking fee (yep…) I would recommend parking up the hill on the PCH itself, which is free. Then it's a quick 5 minute walk down a hill to the beach itself. It's set up like a mini resort, with a restaurant serving food, and a shop selling beer for you to drink while sunbathing. The sun loungers and chairs were all free to use (I double checked with one of the many helpful and friendly staff) which was a unexpected bonus, and it was pretty easy to while away an afternoon here. No sunset view to be had, but one of my fave beaches so far.
But there's fun to be had at nighttime too in L.A. Which is lucky, as at the moment it gets dark about 5pm so that's a lot of hours to fill. One of our favourite discoveries so far is First Friday's in Venice. Venice itself is infamous as the weirder side of L.A. Head down here if you want to see Muscle Beach, t-shirt hawkers, and a Sikh man in full turban rollerskating along the bike path playing an electric guitar with a mini amp strapped to his back. Basically, it's the Camden Town of Los Angeles – but by the sea and sunny. Anyway, every first Friday of the month around 20 of the best food trucks in the city all gather together for a big event. It used to be 70, but then it got a little bit out of control, loads of people got drunk and caused mayhem, and they scaled it back down. Still, it's pretty epic and has a fun festival feel. It also introduced us to the best food we've had since arriving here, Howlin' Rays Nashville style hot chicken. Words will never describe the taste sensation it was. Also a fan of this food truck was a pretty famous face. Bee noticed a man in the queue looking pretty intently at us, having clocked our British accents. Then Bee whispered to me, "is that Chris Martin?' You know what Bee, it was. Then seemingly to make sure we really knew it was him, the Coldplay frontman started singing and dancing in front of us. I genuinely am not making this up. We snapped a paparazzi shot of him, but as it's got one of his kids in the background I won't put it up. We then saw on Twitter that he'd gone into a local shop and offered everyone free chicken. Incredible scenes.
It's not all been eating (mainly it has). While we were staying in Miracle Mile for the first month (a pretty central area which seemed to be 25 minutes away from everywhere else in the city) I took myself off to the La Brea Tar Pits for the afternoon. If you ever visit then I definitely recommend a trip here – the park is free, but the museum is worth your $12 for sure. They have millions of fossils on display, perfectly preserved skeletons of mammoths, sabre tooth cats, and other giant creatures, plus real tar (asphalt actually) which bubbles up from the ground all over the park, so watch where you step. It's a fascinating look into the natural history of a place we associate with modernity, entertainment, and urban sprawl.
Bee Says: Thank you for bearing with us on our life hiatus! As Nick said, we might have ever so slightly underestimated that leaving one job/house/city, getting married and moving around the world to a new job/house/city/life/culture basically feels like stepping onto the waltzers. It feels like we are only just starting to know our heads from our toes again! And now that we have, we are really excited to share our little corner of the world with you again. There's more to talk about than we can possibly expect you to read in one sitting without an intravenous of coffee, so I'll pick a few highlights and then I promise we'll be back soon(er) with new news. As Nick mentioned when we first moved here we were living in an Air BnB in Miracle Mile for a month. Whilst the location was great (and when I say great you can read "walking distance from an Umami Burger") we quickly learnt that living in an Air Bnb is far from ideal on a long term basis. The apartment was sweet, but absolutely fit to bursting with someone elses stuff! Which meant we couldn't unpack, I was having to try and dress appropriately for a new job every day without the ability to even properly unpack my suitcase and generally we felt like intruders in someone elses home. It has made a HUGE difference to get our own place.
Whilst I was at work Nick had the daunting task of house hunting; pretty overwhelming when we were shiny new off the plane and unaware of good areas, good deals or what was what. We were under the time pressure of having to find somewhere before our Air BnB ran out and to reduce my commute. Everywhere we viewed was not quite right; the most not right being a flat that looked lovely online only to turn out to be somebody's GARAGE they had converted?! As the realtor said "you need to pass through the family home to get in and out, but they are ever so nice" we started to get a little bit of the fear that we'd never find somewhere. Lady luck shone on us though, and one day Nick saw an advert on "hot pads" with no photos, no text and just a phone number. Luckily he persevered and rang the mystery number, making an appointment to view. We turned up to a beautiful block decorated in batenburg shades (in typical me style I decided I wanted to live there based on how cute that would look on Instagram) and found an open door to an apartment with no one inside. After a quick scout around, we couldn't believe it when we realised the place was a two bedroom apartment yet on the market for a one bed price. A Guatemalan lady called Paulina soon found us lurking inside an we basically leapt on her and signed up there and them, forcing a deposit on her as more and more couples arrived to look round. Being the first over the stoop gave us first refusal and the rest is history! Amazingly (and unlike in the UK) in the week between signing and moving in, Paulina worked her socks off to get us new flooring, an A/C unit and a professional clean. We also both have a walk-in wardobe! Living the Cher from Clueless dream.
Having a proper home has instantly got us feeling more settled. Another key to the LA puzzle is the fact it's in an area we are completely besotted with. Culver City is actually its own independent city in the county of Los Angeles. It's the original "Hollywood" where the film studios were first set up – such as MGM in the 1920s. Its motto is "The Heart Of Screenland" & The Wizard of Oz, Gone with the Wind, King Kong and ET were all filmed here. It's so the "real Hollywood" that in 1937 the Culver City Chamber of Commerce petitioned to have the city name changed to Hollywood (as the sign had become so iconic) but it was declined. As a result, studios such as MGM started placing "Made in Culver City" front & centre of the credits before all their films!
The area is safe, pedestrianised (RARE for LA!) and super buzzy. To get a sense of it… The Wonder Years filmed its outdoor scenes on our street! The area is super well maintained; fairy lights twinkle from the palm trees and there is a real community atmosphere. We are walking distance from my work, a Trader Joes, an In-n-Out burger, a coffee shop that makes a mean Mexican Mocha, gift shops, banks, about 40 restaurants, an Arclight cinema and a Cold Stone Creamery (lethal). We also have a diner, S & W Country Diner, that is everything you'd wish from a local hangout. Kitsch decor, booths, a menu as long as your arm and insanely friendly staff who remember you and your preferences! We go every weekend and it's basically our new second home.
What with all this eating, we are also fortunate enough to live next to Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook. This is a great hike that takes you up some gruelling vertical steps (where we regularly see the USC Trojans training!) to take in a 360 view of LA from the top. We tend to head up there at 6.30am to catch the sun rising, and I could honestly sit there for hours just watching the planes take off and land over at LAX… the sea lapping in the distance and the Gotham-like towers in Downtown. It's always a wrench to head back down and into the day.
An unexpected event is that we have both become big Clippers fans. Obviously there is an endless choice of sports to get into in America but basketball zoomed into our hearts the quickest. When we first moved here, Nick's old housemate and our good friend Laura was spending her last month as an Angeleno before moving to NYC. This was perfectly timed for us to team up on a ton of our firsts/her lasts together. One of these was an introduction to the Clippers. From the moment we arrived at the Staples Centre, I knew I was about to become addicted. Firstly, basketball is easy to follow. There are no crazy rulebooks to digest and it's obvious when someone is winning. Secondly, it's so much more about the experience than the sport! We saw fireworks, we saw babies racing across the court to win their parents a jeep (!) we saw the National Anthem being sung, we saw "kiss cam" where the big screen display people who must then kiss on demand (I think they try to go for the people they have sussed are couples…) we saw randoms from the audience come up to try and score a slam dunk, we saw celebs lazing on the front row… the list is kind of endless. There is way more faffing about with entertainment than actual spot. That said, the sport is really nail biting. We witnessed the Clippers win 67-66 by scoring with 0.03 seconds to go… the crowd went CRAZY! It's super good fun and the key – it's cheap. You can get nose-bleeder seats (where the best atmosphere is I reckon!) for as little as $8 (about a fiver!) and we can ride the metro there and back, which costs about £2 return. No wonder we are averaging a game a fortnight! Those Clippers work hard too, they play about 5 games a week and are even playing on Christmas Day.
Another great experience was heading to the Día de Muertos celebration at Hollywood Forever Cemetery. We had wanted to visit the cemetery for a while; it's iconic for being the final resting place for more Hollywood founders and stars than anywhere else including Johnny Ramone and Toto the dog from Wizard of Oz. It's a surprisingly tranquil and beautifully maintained place; it isn't tacky at all which is what I was fearful of. There are various cultural events and celebrations throughout the year, but Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) is one close to Nick and I's heart after we celebrated it with locals on Isla Del Sol in Bolivia. Day of the Dead is a holiday celebrated throughout Mexico, in particular the Central and South regions, but also acknowledged through various other parts of South America and the world. The holiday is used to gather family and friends to pray for and remember friends and family members who have died, and help "support their spiritual journey."
Ever since I learnt about the holiday I've been completely in awe of it. To me, it seems such an incredibly healthy and necessary way to talk about and deal with mortality. It's actually how even the British used to deal with death (we learnt this at Highgate Cemetery tour) by creating mausoleums and huge shrines that were visited and decorated in a not dis-similar manner. However after World War 1, for obvious reasons, this changed dramatically to the more private, sheltered and intimate attitude to death we experience now. Having a day dedicated to talking about and remembering those we have lost is such a beautiful thing; and my favourite part is that this is a real celebration. There is amazing food, dancing, music and costumes. Everywhere has their own approaches (in Bolivia they fly kites) but the positivity is infectious. At Hollywood Forever we listened to an amazing Mariachi band playing The Smiths covers, we brushed off our Spanish to chat to some of the wonderful artists and people crafting, and we felt incredibly privileged to join in this special moment of the year, in such an amazing location.
So that's a little glimpse of Los Angeles life. We've been packing it in right? Don't worry, we still have time to nest on our new sofa and binge watch Master of None and Jessica Jones. I'll leave you with a classic Bee and Nick quote. Driving back into LA from a weekend away we were driving through a nice looking neighbourhood. Nick: "These are such lovely houses. What area is this? Why don't we live here?" Bee *checks Google Maps* "This is Beverly Hills."


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Say your name is John Doe, and you own johndoe.com.
What are the best practices for identifying your personal email at that domain?
- email@example.com is redundant
- firstname.lastname@example.com seems a bit juvenile
- email@example.com and firstname.lastname@example.com are too impersonal
Am I missing a more appropriate alternative?
(I know this is on the fringe, but I'm hoping it's just north of objective--or at least interesting enough to the community to get some good feedback.)