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2 tablespoons of chopped [or snipped! – grab your scissors!] green onions
Food-polar disorder PSA + Homemade Veggie Cream Cheese
2 tablespoons of chopped [or snipped! – grab your scissors!] green onions
Veggie-centric recipes and more!
By Jenn 47 Comments
Heather Blackmon says
I so rarely use that shredding disc on my food processor, but when I need it – it's awesome! I'm getting better at not buying a little of everything, but I have no less than 6 types of flour in the pantry right now – who needs 6 types of flour? I've been cut-off from buying any more varieties until we use what we have now. 🙂
Nava Krishnan says
Being a vegetarian, I need this recipe you have shared, simple but goes a long way.
Emily @ Life on Food says
Honestly, I think I have that too…and I am not just saying. The restaurant situation will leave me in cold sweats! My husband knows by now that I am the number one influence on what he orders, not his stomach.
Maria Ibbitson says
Now that you mention it… I actually do have 5 types of cheese in the fridge, 3 types of bread, 6 different shapes of pasta. Since Heather mentioned flour, I decided to go check that out too… Sorgum. Rice. Sweet Rice. Gluten free all purpose. Quinoa. Potato. All-Purpose. Whole wheat. Almond. & Cake Flour. That's 11! I can't even bake *sigh*
Looks like we'll be checking in together!
Haha you have me cracking up with this post. I think I would be the next to be diagnosed as officially 'food-polic'. Can that be a word? Why not…!
I definitely feel that way when I'm out to eat. I want to try about 10 different things on most menus, and I sometimes get anxious when I actually have to choose just ONE!
Maureen says
Love it! 🙂 I too suffer from FPD. Should we make a television spot for it?? I could totally see something like that on SNL!! lol
I too suffer from FPD. We should form a support group! One where we all go to dinner and share dishes so no one has to "choose." 🙂
Meg Zuehl says
That is hilarious! I definitely suffer from this disorder and get very overwhelmed by too many food choices. Luckily my husband always orders the tasty/unhealthy option so I get bites of the good stuff while being able to order something a little less damaging on the waistline!
I completely understand what you're saying! I used my cheese grater for the first time this weekend, for sweet potatoes! I made hash browns and they were delish! They cooked up quickly, but I would like them a little crispier next time. It is amazing what you can do when you think outside the box a bit 🙂
Andrea @ Vegvacious says
I totally relate to this food-polar disorder you speak of. Sticking to a grocery budget is near impossible for me. I have coconut milk, almond milk, rice milk and dairy milk – brown rice pasta, whole what pasta and regular old shell pasta (for Derek!) – whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, chickpea flour, coconut flour, spelt flour, buckwheat flour and almond flour – I don't buy this stuff because I have a recipe in mind. I just feel like I might need it if I see a recipe that calls for it 🙂
Kiri W. says
Wow, that cream cheese looks glorious! I love the radishes in it 🙂
Jenny @ simply be me says
I think anyone who loves food suffers from this! I bought my food processor at a garage sale for $1 almost 10 years ago and it is still going strong!
Thats beyond epic! Lucky girl! =)
Us bloggers have it the worst eh? =) haha love it girl! you'll find a way to use em all up!
This made me laugh so much — because that is exactly how it goes over here too! Hubs gets the greasy cheesy nastiness and I steal away while loading up on veggies on my own plate! Best of both worlds =)
Suzi says
Nice addition with carrots and radish, sounds tasty.
Kristin says
Looks good!
nicoleandgwendolyn says
hahahaha! Food-Polar disorder sounds like a clinical condition that the DSM V should consider. You can read about my thoughts on the DSM and the bogus-ness of their currently listed eating disorder of EDNOS in my article entitled, I Have Homosexuality. Enjoy, and your feedback will be appreciated!
And fabulous recipe!!! It's in my foreseeable future, using tofutti, of course.
ooh I've got to read this! on my way darling!
nicoleandgwendolyn says
i linked to your article at my facebook page – very very nice! 🙂
Haha I totally believe that this disorder exists – and I most definitely have it! 😛 I think I have almost every type of grain in my pantry… bulgur, oats, millet, rice, couscous, wheatberries, you name it! And I always want to buy every kind of cheese at the grocery store, but I have to always remind myself that there's no way I could eat them all by myself before they go moldy. I think they should sell boxes containing samples of different cheeses for people like us! 😉
I am with you, but I don't have any cheese in my fridge right now (I checked), and no pasta…:( shopping day is coming soon…:)
YES YES YES!!!!!!!!!!!! Sample packages are genius!!!! We need to meet every foodie company in the world and convince them of this! <3 its 100% mandatory for peeps like us! hehe
I KNOW I would love this! Anything cream cheese…
Hahah I'm the same way! I want to try EVERYTHING!
right!? it always plagues me when I can't try all the dishes that look good at the same time. wait and come back another day? bahhh i dont wanna! 😉
beti says
hahahaha that's so funny now that you mention it I do have 7 types of cheeses in my fridge not to mention that last week I almost forced my mom to buy me almost everytipe of pasta they had in the grocery store. Regarding the restaurant menu problem I always share with my sister or mom we often have the same problem and with this we can order 3 different meals and share them
Kissmybroccoli says
If you're getting checked in, I'll be your roomie! The 8 OPENED jars of nut butter, 5 different types of pasta, and the 10 varieties of flour (both gluten-free and regular) will serve as my admission of guilt. And I confess…I have been known to influence my fellow diner's decision on what to pick from the menu just to benefit me and my food polar tendencies! 😉
Love the veggie cream cheese…why have I never thought to do this myself? Brilliant!
Claudia says
So is there something wrong with 20 boxes of pasta, 4 peanut butters and shelves of jams and jellies?
Ladies Holiday says
perfect on a bagel. yummy
haha I certainly hope not! That's what my pantry looks like too!!! =) Add in 10 bags of granola and we're twins! <3
Claudia says
… speaking of cream cheese… we have many types… but not homemade. That's where you come in…
Jen @ Juanita's Cocina says
Ohhhhhhh, yes please. Beautiful and YUMMMM.
Sue says
I can totally relate! At the moment, I have three different kinds of lentils (red, green, and black) and at least six different kinds of grains (brown rice, white rice, millet, quinoa, 7-grain mix, oatmeal) in my pantry. Just can't decide and need them all!
Leelu says
You're definitely the only one with this condition! Being a poor college student I am FORCED by my budget to limit myself in what I buy, but needless to say grocery shopping is always an hour long affair.
Love the recipie, it looks great!
Leelu says
Ooop I ment not the only one with this condition 😛
Ann Mc says
Okay – this was a FUN read! ….and a terrific recipe! I understand how the food-polar thingy can happen! The first time I went into Whole Foods, I spent $96 on CHEESE! That's it….just cheese! ….and I shop from a list nearly 100% of the time! I walked out with a BAG of cheese and thought, "Huh? What just happened here?"
janetha says
Oh I for sure have that same disorder.. haha. Also, the CC looks fab!
I wonder if blogging made us this way or if it's just this extreme internal need for variety? 😉 Either way i'm totally ok with it!
Heather says
I absolutely have the same disorder; even with a list I end up leaving with a whole lot more than I anticipated; yeah that food grocery budget, thats never going to happen 🙂
Meredith @ DareYouTo says
Haha. I definitely have this serious medical condition, as well. I MUST get a food processor to solve my problem! Can my doctor prescribe one? Will my insurance cover it?
You're lucky I had *just* put my water down b/c i'm sure i would have spit out out laughing!
You must ask your current healthcare provider if food processors are right for you. Side effects may include temporary insanity, chills, screams of joy, and screams of fear when you realize you hit blend when the lid wasn't on. Food processors are not responsible for cleaning up after themselves, so you may want to take it alongside a dishwasher.
love your face off
Julia says
I love veggie cream cheese! I can't believe I never thought about making my own, I'm definitely going to have to do this 🙂
Denise says
Sounds good!
Claire Gallam10 says
Omg amazing!!!
Justine Fish says
LOL this is so me!! Love it!
and I'm here to help you eat your veggies! It'll be fun, painless, and pretty darn delicious as I teach you to plan your meals around fresh, seasonal produce with a little help from sketch-free freezer and pantry staples. Embrace the veg! Eat healthy. Eat happy. Eat pretty! Read More…
Find out with our FREE weekly recipe newsletter!


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WATCH: Alicia Keys & Maxwell - 'Fire We Make'
Listen to Alicia Keys on iHeartRadio | Listen to Maxwell on iHeartRadio
Where is the water?!
Surely, you'll need to be cooled down after checking out this steamy, sexy video from Alicia Keys and Maxwell for her track "Fire We Make."
Alicia and Maxwell give major sexy everything in this music video set in a French Quarter hotel. That falsetto. Yes.
Check out what video director Chris Robinson did here!

subset: commoncrawl


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Open until 24th of may
In the country of the goat and the crayfish, the brainwaves of a chief.
Imagination in the setting, invention in the plate.
The colorful lounges and their beautiful lights and paintings. Or the terrace with a view on the swimming pool, the Jacuzzi and the mountains. It is such a beautiful space that it would not be fair to save it only for the privileged residents. So, if you leave the quay of Calvi for an inside walk, join this delightful site, the distinguished lounge and this dreaming terrace for a delicious Corsican cuisine, made of actual flavors with our glorified products.
Attentive and welcoming service, a cave in tune with this simple atmosphere.
A distinguished and creative cuisine sublimating Corsican products.
The creativity of our meals is reflected in the colorful lounges and their beautiful lights and paintings. For lunch or for dinner, inside or on the terrace with an amazing view on the mountains, the Corsican products are cooked for you: lambs, Calvi fishes, scampis, oisters, vegetables from the garden… All cooked by a young and talented chief, Thomas d'Arcangelo who worked at l'Epuisette in Marseille and "Au Petit Nice" before working at la Signoria.
The restaurant « La Palmeraie », set in a building of the 18th century, proposes:
Our bistrot proposes simplified menus made with Corsican products for lunch or for dinner. La Signoria invites you to discover the restaurant of our partnered beach, la Signoria Mare
Three lounges and bars welcome our guests to refresh them: the bar of the swimming pool, the lounge bar abd the bar of the beach.
Menus inspired from the sumptuousness of Corsica.
Michelin's distinctions 2012
The guide Michelin published in March 2012 offered our restaurant la Signoria: -3 red forks -"La Grappe d'Or", only offered to the best caves of France
Arriving in la Signoria, the nature offers a perpetual wonder. All the sumptuousness of the western north of Corsica is situated some kilometers away from the hotel: seaside resorts, beaches, mountains, charming villages…


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Sydney, the heat is on.
Meteorologists are predicting the city will top 31 degrees on Friday, and the temperature will soar as high as 40 in Penrith and Richmond.
And it's expected to get even hotter on Saturday.
"For the city, there's likely to be a larger temperature range between the two days because today is likely to be affected by a sea breeze," Weatherzone meteorologist Ben Domensino said.
"Whereas tomorrow, it's looking like the westerly winds may be strong enough to hold out that sea breeze.
"If that happens then the city may even reach the high 30s."
If you found yourself tossing and turning last night, it's because it was the hottest night in Sydney since February at a minimum of 21 degrees.
Mr Domensino said the heat was coming from central Australia.
"An approaching trough is directing that heat towards the NSW coast. It's peaking today and tomorrow."
Much of the state will experience the heatwave and NSW Health is promoting its "Beat the Heat" message.
It advises people to drink plenty of water, stay out of the sun, keep cool, and watch out for elderly neighbours and relatives.
State emergency operations controller, Acting Deputy Commissioner Mark Murdoch, warned people not to leave their children or pets in cars, even for a short time.
"It doesn't take long for the temperature inside the car to soar, and for the effects of the heat to take hold," Mr Murdoch said in a statement.
"You might think it is inconvenient to take your child or pet with you, even if it is to go and pay for petrol or pop into a shop, but alternative could be worse.
"And for those who will flock to beaches, the rivers or pools to try to escape the heat and cool down, beware of the dangers of drinking alcohol and being out in the sun all day – it's not a good mix."
The water temperature at Sydney beaches is expected to be about 21 degrees.
Along the NSW coast the fire danger is high, with a total fire ban in the Northern Riverina area, according to the Rural Fire Service.
But RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said much of the state was expected to have Very High danger ratings on Saturday.
"The forecast weather is a timely reminder that summer is here and people should ensure both their family and their property are prepared.
"Already this year firefighters have battled more than 3,800 bush and grass fires and they will
be on stand by to fight any fires that may break out this weekend.
"While our firefighters are well equipped, highly trained and dedicated, I am asking the community to join them by preparing before it is too late.
"Anyone without a Bush Fire Survival Plan needs to get one now."
Information about Bushfire Survival Plans can be found on the RFS website.
Weatherzone.com.au is owned by Fairfax Media, publisher of this website


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Kevin Fleming Ph.D.
Coach/Change Agent/Consultant
Buffalo, New York 14202
What are the most common couples' issues? If you are thinking "communication, conflict, sex, money, child rearing" you are correct. However, most therapists will go after the symptom on each side of the couple fence thinking that the way to effective change is by getting each party to "work" on their respective "issue". Many times the parties don't agree but comply. Imagine if you could align the unconscious brains of a couple and stop the "working on your issues" part that has become so popular in therapy settings? Contact firstname.lastname@example.com to learn how! Or call 877-606-6161. DR. FLEMING'S NEW RELATIONSHIP/COUPLES INTENSIVES. www.kevinflemingphd.com/marriage-couples-retreats.php
Kristi Smith, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
8265 Sheridan Dr., Williamsville, New York 14221
I feel that in order for a couple to succeed in their relationship, there must be mutual respect and open communication. The vows "Love, Honor and Chrerish" and imperative in creating a loving and positive relationship that will overcome life's obstacles. It is my role to help you learn and foster these tools to incorporate them into your daily lives.
Wendy Pegan, MS, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC
Licensed Mental Health Counselor & DivorceMediator
4242 RIDGE LEA RD. SUITE 6, AMHERST, New York 14226
Our intimate relationships are among the most important relationships we will ever have. Their significance to our sense of safety and emotional security is critical. And the right skills are as important as the right partner. At Creative Relationship Center, caring licensed counselors with help you learn to address your priorities and expectations of each other by having a solid understanding of the issues that can get in your way. Let us help you find the happiness you deserve.
Carol Munschauer, Ph.D
Clinical Psychologist and Psychoanalyst
605 Le Brun Road, Amherst, New York 14226
I do a unique form of Couples Therapy and so far have had no failures ( knock on wood!). I do not do behavioral interventions such as communication training with homework, although communication skills are involved, but I work by seeing each partner both individually and as a couple. My approach is based on the belief that "two people can see things in two different ways and both be "right." This is unlike other approaches where couples vie to convince the therapist of WHO IS RIGHT OR WHO IS THE GOOD ONE. No one is born for another person: either in a marital couple or a business partner: the couples that survive are the ones who can respect how they have come to see things differently
Lesley Martin, MA, LMHC, NCC
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
4242 Ridge Lea Road, Suite 11B, Amherst, New York 14226
Relationships can be complicated. You may be struggling with a particular issue and not know how to approach it with your partner. Or you may feel like you're repeating the same patterns over and over. Perhaps your partner experienced a traumatic event and you want to be supportive, but aren't sure what to do to help. Maybe you are just having a hard time talking to each other and getting along. Couples therapy can help! I provide a comfortable and open place to discuss your concerns, feelings and goals. I help couples gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their issues, and work collaboratively with them to build effective communication skills, reduce conflict and promote growth.
Philip Kolba, MA
Buffalo, New York 14223
There are countless models of healthy romantic relationships, from monogamous to polyamorous, and unique variations between partners. The scripts for dating and longterm relationships of our parents' generations may not be applicable to your relationship, and there is no formal education in how to be a good partner or how to identify unhealthy relationships. But there is psychological research that shows that effective communication, emotional openness, intimacy, and other factors contribute to healthy relationships. Creating these conditions are skills that can be learned. I practice brief humanistic and emotion-focused therapy (EFT) to help my LGBTQ and hetero clients learn these skills.


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Bookmark this site
CHARLOTTE, NC -- Thomas Laird "Tom" Keil, who dedicated his adult life to the amusement industry, died on April 18 following a battle with cancer. He was 63.
Keil was a regional sales manager for Sega Amusements, where had served in various executive posts since 2002.
"It is a sad time for us all with the passing of my friend and work colleague, Tom Keil," said Sega president Paul Williams. "He was a man admired by many for his integrity, passion for life and sense of goodness. Everyone [who] knew him or met him was touched by the generosity of his nature and personality."
Keil was born in St. Louis, MO, in 1950 on Christmas Day. He moved with his family to North Carolina where he attended high school. After graduating in 1969, he served in the U.S. Army in Germany from 1970 to 1972. He attended the University of North Carolina, earning a degree in accounting.
Keil started his coin-op career in 1974 at Brady Distributing Co. (Charlotte), working his way up to assistant sales manager. He later went to work for Atari Games, where he spent almost a decade before joining Sega.
"Tom put up a valiant and courageous fight against cancer for more than three years," said Sega's Peter Gustafson. "Throughout his ordeal, he never allowed his condition stop or slow him down. His unwillingness to let his disease define him was an inspirational example of how to live fully regardless of the circumstances life hands you."
He is survived by his wife Janice; his twin brother Jerry and his wife Betsy; sisters Pat Moon, Donna Faine and Linda Smith; and many nieces and nephews.
Donations in Tom Keil's honor can be made to The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at
Duke University Medical Center (DUMC 3624, Durham, NC 27710) or The Caring House (2625 Pickett Rd.,
Durham, NC 27705).


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In the market for a quality, used car in Phoenix? Let the courteous professionals at Chapman Automotive Group help you find the perfect pre-owned vehicle to fit your needs and budget. Phoenix used car customers will find we carry all makes and models at our dealerships. Our finance team will help you find the right loan program for your lifestyle and credit situation, so you can drive your vehicle home today. Online, you can pre-qualify for financing, view photos and complete vehicle descriptions of actual used vehicles for sale, and contact a sales professional who will answer any questions you may have.


text: Apparently Victoria's Secret model Barbara Palvin is willing to let herself get photographed with Justin Bieber and even maybe go see The Lion King with him, but that is where she draws the line. The 19 year old does not want anything else to do with Bieber and has been trying to make that clear to his followers. She said in a Tweet, "Please calm down. He is all yours." Now that she has made her feelings clear, Justin is willing to try and get Selena Gomez back and judged on her past record of taking him back after he cheats and makes her feel like crap, she probably will. It is not like Selena is 12, you would think at some point she would be tried of being second best in Justin's mind and move on.


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More than 200 people gathered Wednesday night in West Long Beach to weigh in on a contentious proposed railyard project that they say may have major economic and environmental implications to the city.
The nearly three-hour meeting organized by City Councilman James Johnson at Silverado Park allowed Long Beach-area residents to put on the record their feelings about the $500 million, 153-acre Southern California International Gateway railyard project.
Proposed by Burlington Northern Santa Fe in 2005, the facility is designed to help accommodate the rising demand in cargo by allowing trucks to load containers and put them on trains closer to the ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles, rather than having trucks drive 24 miles away to another facility in downtown Los Angeles.
Rail officials plan to build it on the Los Angeles border and across from West Long Beach residents' schools, parks and neighborhoods.
Opponents - wearing "No SCIG" T-shirts and carrying signs - contend that the project will increase traffic and health issues in West Long Beach and Wilmington. Several residents, including children from the Villages at Cabrillo, said they worried about asthma and other medical concerns.
Martha Sandoval, a West Long Beach resident who lives near the proposed project, said her son has asthma and is often absent from school because of it.
"He has to breathe with a machine and I don't think it's fair," she said in Spanish. "There's no need to have more pollution in Long Beach. We don't need it."
Railroad officials, some residents and supporters such as the Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce said that the project will use green technology at the facility, help remove 1.5 million trucks per year from the 710 Freeway and create much-needed jobs.
"I feel that this project is going to bring green growth to the city of Long Beach and the Port of Los Angeles area," said Tommy Faavae of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local Union 11.
However, some residents weren't convinced.
"How can I go to a job if I can't breathe?" asked one West Long Beach resident, jokingly asking if he needed to take an oxygen tank with him.
Port officials, which released a revised environmental impact report on the project, have until Tuesday to collect comments.
email@example.com, 562-714-2088, twitter.com/KarenMeeksPT


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Snoop Dogg with Pac Div
Show of the week • Where else would Snoop Dogg rather spend his last night on Earth than in Salt Lake City? The Southern California rap trio Pac Div will open for the Doggfather, and in a Tribune interview Pac Div's Mibbs said the chances of the world ending in a Maya-predicted apocalypse are about 5 percent. "I'm going to live that day like a normal day," said Mibbs, who along with his brother Like and childhood friend BeYoung will be demonstrating to The Depot why West Coast rap is not dead. "If anything happens, it will be a good thing." The trio released its album "GMB" in late November, and Like and Mibbs' grandmother Fleecie graces the cover. "There would be no us without her," Mibbs said. "She's a symbol of the future. She created the future." Being a fixture in the L.A. rap scene led the Long Beach-raised Snoop select Pac Div to open selected dates on his tour, and perhaps the hottest rapper of the moment, Kendrick Lamar, is a good friend and is featured on "GMB." Pac Div returned the favor by guesting on Lamar's brilliant 2012 album "good kid, m.A.A.d city." Mibbs is so confident about the upswing of the West Coast that he even believes his favorite team, the Lakers, will rise from the ashes of their thus-far disappointing season. Does Kobe know?
When • Friday, Dec. 21, at 9 p.m.
Where • The Depot, 400 W. South Temple, Salt Lake City
Tickets • $55 at SmithsTix
Savoy is a mix of Big Band sound, upbeat jazz and sassy swing. It will perform music from its latest Christmas CD, "Merry Little Christmas." The band features well-known local vocalist Sam Payne.
When • Friday, Dec. 21, at 7:30 p.m.
Where • Sandy City Hall, 10000 Centennial Parkway, Sandy
Tickets • $10 at sandyarts.com/christmas
Solstice Concert
This musical event brings the sounds of jazz into the historic church. The concert will feature cellist Eric Samuels, cimbalom performer Igor Iachimciuc and flautist-vocalist Carole Turcotte.
When • Friday, Dec. 21, at 7:30 p.m.
Where • St. Mark's Episcopal Cathedral, 231 E. 100 South, Salt Lake City
Tickets • Free; donations are encouraged
Joshua Wright
Local pianist Joshua Wright will perform a Christmas concert. His debut record was on the Shadow Mountain Records label. He is expected to release his next CD, "My Favorite Things," in 2013.
When • Saturday, Dec. 22, at 7:30 p.m.
Where • Sandy City Hall, 10000 Centennial Parkway, Sandy
Tickets • $12 at sandyarts.com/christmas
Jazz Vespers Quartet
The Jazz Vespers Quartet will perform its annual beloved "Christmas Kool" concert.
When • Sunday, Dec. 23, at 7:30 p.m.
Where • First Unitarian Church, 569 S. 1300 East, Salt Lake City
Tickets • Free
Donny and Marie Osmond A Salt Lake Christmas
In the holiday tradition of the "Andy Williams Christmas" and "Osmond Family Christmas" television specials, Donny & Marie invite you to join them to celebrate the joy of the season in true Osmond fashion, in person.
When • Wednesday and Thursday, Dec. 26 and 27, at 7:30 p.m.
Where • Abravanel Hall, 123 W. South Temple, Salt Lake City
Tickets • $25-$135 at Arttix.org
The Cast of 'Beatlemania' A Multimedia Tribute to The Beatles
The Los Angeles cast of "Beatlemania" will present a 90-minute "Magical Mystery Tour" that promises to treat the audience to a nostalgic musical experience that they will never forget.
When • Wednesday and Thursday, Dec. 26 and 27, at 8 p.m.
Where • Egyptian Theatre, 328 Main St., Park City
Tickets • $30-$55 at holdmyticket.com


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La Pavoni
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Classical purists, aficionado of the art - call yourself what you will, you want to take it slow and make it perfect. Manual espresso machines are classics for a reason, and still give you the most control over every aspect of making your espresso. Finely tune your perfect shot through temperature, steam pressure, grind, tamp pressure and length of extraction. These machines are as elegant as they are capable, featuring a boiler, steam pressure gauge, portafilter and a manual lever for controlling espresso extractions.
La Pavoni Professional Manual Espresso Machine - Chrome Base - PC-16Artistry in motion! La Pavoni Professional Manual Espresso Machine PC-16 in the all chrome configuration combines classic industrial lines with maximum manual output. Some things in life continue to be elusive...like seeing a yeti, golfing a perfect game, or pulling the perfect shot. Take a step closer to espresso perfection with La Pavoni Professional PC-16 capable of creating up to 16 mind-blowing shots thanks to the large 38 ounce boiler. Contemplate the mysteries of life while you sip one of the best shots you'll ever pull. Learn More$1,149.00
Out of Stock


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Exclusive Look at ABC Family's Returning Hits
ABC Family
'Switched at Birth'
Beginning January 7, Switched at Birth and Bunheads return to ABC Family, creating a two-hour family block the entire clan can enjoy, and ETonline scored exclusive images from both season premieres!
VIDEO - Lucy Hale Teases PLL Premiere!
Up first is Switched, which opens its season with the intriguingly titled episode: The Door To Freedom. Who might walk in or out of that door remains a mystery, although I can reveal the premiere features Angelo (played by Gilles Marini) using part of the $5 million he was awarded from the hospital responsible for the switch to buy his daughter Daphne (Katie Leclerc) a food truck.
But Angelo might not be on everyone's good side once a pregnant woman shows up claiming he's the father of her unborn baby! Meanwhile, Bay must face the Student Honor Board when she is accused of cheating and Daphne's distraction with Chef Jeff gets her in trouble.


text: Talk2Action has picked up the story of the awful 'Manga Messiah' comics that are being handed out to deployed soldiers. They're also used in Uganda to brainwash kids against Jews, gays, and witches. via Talk2Action: The publisher claims that millions of copies of Manga Messiah have been distributed in countries around the globe, from Uganda [Read More…]


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Rock Wall Wine Company presents Food Truck Frenzy: Mother Trucker!
Rock Wall Wine Company
Saturday, May 11, 2013 from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM (PDT)
Who's Going
San Francisco, California
London, United Kingdom
Florence, Italy
Event Details
Come kick off Mother's Day weekend at
Food Truck Frenzy: Mother Trucker!
Saturday May 11th, 2013
Once again we are bringing together some of the best Food Trucks in the Bay Area to serve up some delicious cuisine for your enjoyment!
Treat the awesome mom's in your life to an afternoon of award-winning Rock Wall wines, gourmet street food from some of the Bay Area's best Food Trucks, awesome tunes by DJ Dave Stebbins, 5 minute back massage, 5 minute makeovers by Nikol Elaine Makeup Artistry, face painting for the kids, Food Truck Frenzy photo booth to commemorate your good time, special performances, local vendors, spectacular views, free parking and so much more!
This is a family friendly event which is open to all ages (children under 5 are free) but you must be 21 or over to purchase wine, age will be verified at admissions.
Reserve your spot today for only $5.00! Admission will $10 at the door, if there are still tickets available. There are a limited amount of presale tickets and this event is known to sell out! RSVP today!
Club Viva Members: Your have two FREE tickets to this event! Enter the discount code you received via email at check-out. Your admission includes entrance to the Club Viva VIP Lounge and 20% off all wine by the glass/flights.
Wine by the glass, flights and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for an additional charge at our Wine Bars and flight tables. Food can be purchased directly from the trucks.
Most trucks are cash only so don't forget to stop at the ATM before you come!
Still looking for an awesome gift for mom? No worries....we got you covered! Fabulous jewelry artist Rene Baba of Loops N' Hoops Jewelry will be there with her beautiful creations and Flower Pop will be on hand for all your flower needs!
Participating Trucks:
Arki Truck: http://www.arkitruck.com
Scolaris Good Eats: http://www.menuface.com/r/ScolarisGoodEats
Saruno Burger: http://www.suranoburger.com
Kau Kau Corner: http://www.kaukaucorner.com
Fist of Flour: http://wheresthefist.com
Madd Mex Cantina: www.facebook.com/MaddMexCantina
Hiyaa!!: http://hiyaaa.com/
Frozen Kuhsterd: http://frozenkuhsterd.com
Get Goes Mobile Café: http://www.facebook/pages/Get-Goes-Mobile-Cafe
Siva Indian: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Siva-Food-Truck
Whip Out: http://www.facebook.com/WhipOutFoodTruck
Coco Tutti: www.cocotutti.com
Poppy Red: http://www.poppyredflowers.com/
Stop, Shop and Roll: https://www.facebook.com/StopShopRollSF
Hoop's and Loop's Jewelry: https://www.facebook.com/#!/LoopsNHoopsJewelry
James Adams Photography: http://www.exclusive-productions.com
When & Where
2301 Monarch Street
Saturday, May 11, 2013 from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM (PDT)
Add to my calendar
Rock Wall Wine Company
The Rock Wall Wine Company represents a new chapter in the East Bay, urban winemaking scene, offering wine lovers one of the most unique experiences in the wine world. Rock Wall was established in 2008 by Kent Rosenblum (The King of Zin) and his daughter, winemaker Shauna Rosenblum. Shauna has expanded the family winemaking business with the same love and commitment to not only Zinfandel but the slew of international varietals such as Tannat, Teroldego and Montepulciano that appeal to new wine drinkers as well as seasoned wine enthusiasts looking for a new experience.
The beautiful Rock Wall tasting room is next to the original hangar. It welcomes visitors with luxurious bamboo flooring, a granite counter top bar and an outdoor deck, perfectly situated for taking in city skyline views. Adjacent to the tasting room is a full-service chef's kitchen and a 3,000 square foot geodesic dome. Food from Scolari's at the Point is available during tasting room hours.
Ideally situated in Alameda, California, the winery boasts spectacular views of the San Francisco skyline, and more importantly its centralized locale allows the production team to be able to handle the fruit soon after it is picked. Housed in a converted 40,000 square-foot airplane hangar, Rock Wall is located on what was once a Naval Air Base. Also known as "Building 24," the hangar is due north of a defensive rock wall, which made up the perimeter of the base. Taking their name from this protective wall, the Rock Wall winery hangar has been retrofitted with state-of-the-art winemaking equipment and has a fully operational production facility and barrel room.
The Rock Wall Wine Company strives to provide premium wine without pretense. Continuing the legacy of urban winemaking while creating an environment where making, tasting and learning about wine is fun and welcoming to all wine lovers!
The tasting room is open Monday-Friday 11:30-8:00pm and Saturday and Sunday 11:30-6:00pm. Last pour is 30 minutes before close. For more information on the Rock Wall Wine Company please visit www.rockwallwines.com.


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October 2011 : Clint Catalyst
Readings/Spoken Word Performances
Saturday, October 29, 2011 (Hollywood, CA)
MARGARET CHO (Drop Dead Diva, The Cho Show)
KIM FOWLEY w/ NOIZEE & BRIANNA GARCIA
JIM TURNER (Duck's Breath Mystery Theatre, 2-Head Dog)
TOBY HUSS (Carnivàle, Adventures of Pete & Pete)
SELENE LUNA (The Cho Show, My Bloody Valentine 3D)
CLINT CATALYST (Cottonmouth Kisses, 1000 Ways To Die, The Adonis Factor)
MICHELLE CARR (Velvet Hammer, The Berber Show)
Emcee: BIENO SVENGALI (Svengali Magic)
The Vitals:
PLEASE NOTE : THIS IS AN EARLY SHOW (8-10 p.m.)
"Halloween Highway 2 : Art of Bleeding and Guests"
Art of Bleeding
Steve Allen Theatre
4773 Hollywood Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA
8:00 p.m. — 10:00 p.m.
Linkature: Facebook Event Page , Facebook Group
All Ages (Though Not Recommended for Children)
$10 Admission
Contact: firstname.lastname@example.com , firstname.lastname@example.com
❧ Or via Facebook (Please see links above)
About Art of Bleeding:
"The Art of Bleeding is a uniquely non-accredited educational institution offering powerful and ego-destabilizing lessons in health and safety. Our presentations (often staged from an ambulance) utilize live performance, film, puppets, music, animation, and thinly veiled medical fetishism to explore the topic of catastrophic health emergencies within the framework of children's television programming."
Hemoglobin Hotties
Bloody Cool ? Reverend Al Ridenour's Antics Define 'Sick' In The Best Sense Of The Word
Though I digress. More about
The Last Saturday of October!
"This Halloween weekend, The Art of Bleeding will once again transform the Steve Allen Theater parking lot into a ghoulish carnival of entertaining catastrophes featuring a SPECTACULARLY REAL MULTI-VEHICLE CAR-CRASH TABLEAU.
Against a smoldering backdrop of twisted cars, you'll have the opportunity to hear TRUE STORIES OF MEDICAL HORRORS and ACCIDENTS from a rotating line-up* of storytellers including MARGARET CHO, ANDY DICK, JIM TURNER, TOBY HUSS, EDDIE PEPITONE, SELENE LUNA, DON BOLLES, STEPHEN HOLMAN, CLINT CATALYST, MICHELLE CARR, KIM FOWLEY, DUKEY FLYSWATTER, DANNY SHORAGO, KIM STODEL, BIENO SVENGALI, and more.
Providing dubious educational counterbalance to these tales of trauma will be THE ART OF BLEEDING'S "Magic Ambulance Theater," a tragically misguided children's show featuring gore-drenched actors, pedantic Safety Ape, bickering robot, and an ample array of attendant nurses in less-than-ample wardrobe.
FEMALE BLOOD WRESTLING, and a frighteningly live sound-performance installation by the enigmatic medical miracles of BOUNCEHAUSEN round out the evening.
And by all means, feel free to come in your Halloween costume! Doctors, nurses, and ESPECIALLY accident victims encouraged. Prizes for outstanding achievements related to our theme."
(Again, there's a high likelihood this show may not be appropriate for children.)
*Please note: this event takes place three separate evenings. I've listed the the night in which I'm a participant, for reasons that should be obvious— but hey! Maybe you're not super-saturated with information on a daily basis, nagging like a steady succession of pop-up ads programmed to auto-start with a You-Will-Watch-Me insistence so gauche, your keyboard locks, a carcinogenic hue plagues your screen and sweeps it dark
as Oh, #whatever
I'm sure any of the nights will be fun. I just hope to see you when I'll be there, so we can . . .
Insofar as caloric value? Of that I'm not certain
AUTOMOBILE SCULPTURE: Clod Wrinkleman, Al Ridenour
ART OF BLEEDING MAGIC AMBULANCE THEATER: Randy Horton, Phil Glau, Al Ridenour, Eric Ridenour, Auriana Borealis, Jezebelle X, Harmony Rose, Tayler Jones, B.J & Eileen Winslow, Erin Robotmachine.
BOUNCEHAUSEN: Jason Hadley, Elizabeth Herndon, Joe Borfo, Cathy Gingerly, Rev. Mook, Rev. Dak J. Ultimak, Kel, Nicole Arneson, Matteo Oettam, Tim Wheeler, Esther Napastick, Michel Cicero, Todd Sterling
BLOOD WRESTLING: Auriana Borealis, Snow Mercy, Chrystal Skye
Projections by LUCID PROJECTIONS.
CADILLAC AMBULANCE AND GEAR courtesy NIK WHITE


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Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas is a one-hour Christmas special which first aired on HBO in 1977; and later broadcast on ABC on December 15, 1980. Jerry Juhl wrote the script for the special, adapting the story from a book by Russell Hoban; original songs for the special were written by Paul Williams; Jim Henson directed. The Henson special was adapted into a live musical stage show by the Jim Henson Company, premiering at the Goodspeed Opera House in December 2008.
In this one-hour musical Christmas special, Kermit the Frog narrates the story of Alice Otter and her son, Emmet, who live along the river in the village of Frogtown Hollow. Ma and Emmet struggle to make ends meet through odd jobs and projects for neighbors and villagers, but this Christmas they dream of having enough money to buy each other a special gift. Known for their musical abilities, the Otters are encouraged by their friends to enter a local talent contest. The mother and son reminisce about Pa Otter, who serves as the inspiration for them to enter the show.
Without each other's knowledge, Ma and Emmet prepare for the contest in the hope of winning the fifty-dollar prize to buy Christmas gifts for each other. Emmet performs as a member of the Frogtown Jubilee Jug Band and Ma Otter sings a solo number, but both face tough competition from a hard rock group formed by a gang of woodland creatures who call themselves the Riverbottom Nightmare Band.
The special utilizes a number of different puppetry methods. The main puppets used are the usual Muppet hand puppets, but the characters are frequently represented by marionettes as well. It also utilizes the Black Theater techniques. This is also one of the first Muppet productions to use radio control puppet effects, designed by Faz Fazakas.
Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas also featured extensively platformed-up sets, all created with great attention to detail. Jim Henson explained:
In 2011, Dave Goelz reflected on the special;
The songs were written by Paul Williams, beginning a long series of Muppet collaborations that also included The Muppet Movie, The Muppet Christmas Carol, and Letters to Santa.
John J. O'Connor gave the special a very positive review in The New York Times on December 15, 1980 for its ABC airing: "Jim Henson and the Muppets are on a dazzling winning streak these days... Mr. Henson has produced and directed one of the most charming Christmas specials of the last several years... Once again, Mr. Henson's creations verge on the marvelous, perfectly capturing the Wind in the Willows aspects of Emmet Otter's story... These really are the nicest folk on the river -- and on prime-time television."
Through the years, as the special moved from network to network, changes were made to Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas in order to accommodate various time constraints. Cuts were made, but in some cases, previously deleted material was added. These alternate edits were used for various television airings and subsequent home video releases. Additionally, after the sale of the Muppets to the Walt Disney Company in 2004, all releases by the Henson Company excluded the scenes with Kermit the Frog.
Original Edit
The original 1977 edit of the special created for airing on HBO; this is considered the "definitive" version that all subsequent alterations are being tracked against. It is available for viewing at the Paley Center. (Run time: 54 minutes)
1980 Edit
Slightly altered version first created for airing on ABC and commercial television; this edit was used for the 1983 VHS release (complete with fadeouts to commercial breaks) as well as the Nickelodeon broadcasts in the 1990s. It is also available for viewing at the Paley Center.
Alterations include:
- Fadeout after the opening titles
- A couple of extra lines of dialogue before Emmet sees the guitar in the shop window
- Extra verses added to "There Ain't No Hole in the Washtub"
- A few extra lines of dialogue from the scene where Emmet and Ma wonder what to give each other for Christmas
- Fadeout before the talent show
- A short talent show scene after Yancy Woodchuck sings "Barbecue"
- The Mayor introduces George and Melissa Rabbit. Will Possum responds to the act saying "Well, It's gonna be a long night."
- "When the River Meets the Sea" is shortened.
1996 Edit
Another alteration used for the 1996 and 1998 VHS releases, 1999 airings on Odyssey Network, and the 2001 DVD release from Columbia Tri-Star. (Run time: 49 minutes)
Alterations include:
- Kermit's narration throughout the special is removed
- Several lines of dialogue between Emmet and Ma after singing "The Bathing Suit That Grandma Otter Wore"
- A couple lines of dialogue cut after Ma hands Gretchen Fox her laundry
- A few lines cut before Emmet and Ma sing "Ain't No Hole in the Washtub"
- Kermit's scene in the restaurant at the end of the special is removed
2005 Edit
This edit first appeared on the 2005 "Collector's Edition" DVD released by HIT Entertainment. This version restores the original 1977 edit of the special, only all scenes/narration with Kermit the Frog have been removed (as the Henson Company sold the rights to Kermit and the Muppets to the Walt Disney Company in 2004). The alternate and extra scenes from the previous variations were included in the disc's "Deleted/Altered Scenes" bonus feature. This has been the version used for all subsequent Henson Company releases, both DVD and digital. (Run time: 49 minutes)
Alterations include:
- Kermit's introduction and opening bicycle scene are removed
- Kermit's narration throughout the special is removed
- Kermit's scene in the restaurant at the end of the special is removed
2015 Edit
When this special aired on ABC Family in 2015, it was remastered and presented in widescreen. It also ran at a 30-frame-rate speed, rather than the original 60-frame-rate. It is the first official broadcast since 2004 in which Kermit's scenes at the beginning and end are included (though his narration is still edited out).
Alterations include:
- "The One Bathing Suit" is played in its entirety with the missing verse.
- Emmet joking around on the river about knitting more socks to barter more pumpkins to make more pies to buy more wool is removed.
- The Riverbottom Nightmare Band's breaking the fruitstand and entering the music store is removed.
- "Ain't No Hole In The Washtub" is cut.
- The scene where Emmet returns from fixing the fence and Ma and Emmet go to the slide on the river is trimmed.
- "When the River Meets the Sea" is cut. (Subsequent airings put it back in)
- Will Possum's line of the show getting off to a shaky start, which first appeared in the 1980 edit, is included, but is placed after Carrots the Dancing Horse rather than after Yancy Woodchuck's rendition of "Barbeque."
- After the commercial break, during the talent contest, Harrison Fox mentions that "Deedra and Sandra Mole" on "snare drum and piccolo" have just performed.
Releases and airings
- See main article: Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas (video)
Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas first aired on HBO in 1977. It was later broadcasted on ABC in 1980.
In 1983, four Muppet Home Video titles were released under the heading "Tales from Muppetland". They were Hey Cinderella!, The Frog Prince, The Muppet Musicians of Bremen and Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas. In addition to VHS, these titles were released on Beta, Laserdisc, and CED. 1983 also saw the release of the 4 programs in the UK by RCA/Columbia Pictures Video (forerunner to Columbia Tristar Home Video) again under the Muppet Home Video banner. There were 2 volumes each containing 2 programs. Volume 1 contained Hey Cinderella and Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas; Volume 2 contained The Frog Prince and The Muppet Musicians of Bremen. These programs are the same versions as released in the US.
Disney's Buena Vista Home Video released Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas on VHS in 1996.
The special aired on Nickelodeon in the 1990s.
In 1998, Columbia Tri-Star Home Video released Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas under its new "Jim Henson Home Entertainment" line, and in 2001 released the same version on DVD.
The special aired on Odyssey Network in 1999.
In 2005, HIT Entertainment released the Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas: Collector's Edition DVD featuring "Never-Before-Seen Footage", an in-depth documentary and other newly created bonus features. The DVD was re-issued in 2008 by Lionsgate under the "Jim Henson's Christmas Classic" banner.
In 2008, the special was released on iTunes as a digital download; and in 2011, the special became available for a time via Netflix's "watch instantly" streaming service.
On December 12, 2015, a remastered version of the 1980 edition aired on ABC Family.
- Executive Producer: David Lazer
- Producer/Director: Jim Henson
- Based on the Book by: Russell and Lillian Hoban
- Writer: Jerry Juhl
- Music and Lyrics by: Paul Williams
- Muppet Creative Consultants: Michael K. Frith and Frank Oz
- Muppet Performers: Jerry Nelson, Frank Oz, Marilyn Sokol, Dave Goelz, Richard Hunt, Eren Ozker; Jim Henson (uncredited)
- Settings designed by William Beeton
- Puppets by Don Sahlin with Caroly Wilcox, Dave Goelz, Mari Kaestle, Amy Van Gilder, John Lovelady, Marianne Harms, Rollin Krewson, Leslee Asch, Janet Lerman
- Special Muppet effects: Faz Fazakas with Larry Jameson
- Muppet clothes: Calista Hendrickson with Sherry Amott
- Set decoration: Stephen Finnie
- Sound effects: Dick Maitland, Barbara Wood
- Design services provided by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation
- Produced in association with Parents' Magazine Films Inc. and Westfall Productions
See also
- ↑ Jim Henson: The Works, p. 199, 202
- ↑ Disney twenty-three, Winter 2011 issue, page 52


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The 5 movements of the Second Symphony are represented by various objects in the sketch. The "Todtenfeier" is represented by the weeping figure. According to Mahler's narrative, the protagonist recalls a sweet moment in his life in the 2nd movement. As such, the 2nd movement is represented by the rose held by the mourner. The protagonist's moment of bliss is shattered in the 3rd movement when he recalls the turmoil of human existence, which is represented by the dates of the 2 World Wars written on the shaded side of the coffin. In this sketch, "Urlicht" is represented by the illuminated rose on the coffin, with the rose also being a reference to the first line of the Wunderhorn song. Finally, the glorious finale of the 5th movement is represented by the beam of light shining onto the coffin.
The Mahler Project
A Life-Changing Experience
| Posted by Deborah Borda in Caracas
The Big Day!
| Posted by LA Phil Staff in Los Angeles
Memorable Moments in Caracas
| Posted by Joanne Pearce Martin in Caracas
Lithgow on LA Phil LIVE – Tomorrow!
| Posted by John Lithgow in Caracas
At the Sarria Nucleo
| Posted by LA Phil Staff in Caracas
Extra, Extra – Read All About It!
| Posted by LA Phil Staff in Los Angeles
El Sistema In Action
| Posted by LA Phil Staff in Caracas
Behind the Scenes with KUSC's Brian Lauritzen
| Posted by Brian Lauritzen in Caracas
A Message from the Chairman
| Posted by David Bohnett in Caracas


text:
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Classic Unlocking is an incorporated company, we've been unlocking cell phones for7 years now and strives to provide the best service for our clientele.


text:
Chris Zorba matched the tournament and shares his thoughts with us here:
"Well, the winner will tick all the boxes for the UFC and certainly can't be accused of padding their record. All the guys deserve the ultimate respect for stepping up to this challenge where they could potentially do 7 x 5 minute rounds in one night against top opposition."
"I hope the best man does win on the night.Of course there will be surprises and drama, but the fans will be the true winners. I think this will really deliver and real MMA fans should make sure they are there to witness it."


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Do you know what the right thing is? No disrespect but you don't have any idea what the right thing is. How do you weigh human life? It's war. There is no right or wrong answer in combat. Those people who aren't out there carrying the rifle have no business dictating what in the hell [Read More…]
Lone Survivor: Thoughts from a Gold Star Daughter
January 13, 2014 by Karen Spears Zacharias 17 Comments
Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: 2005 operation that went terribly awry, 60 Minutes, Afghanistan War, Anderson Cooper, Chinook, CNN, Daily Beast, Danny Dietz, enjoy the freedoms the American military provides for you. - Marcus Luttrell, especially in a culture that clings to wrong-headed mythology.Mythology that manages to glorify war while at the same time denouncing it. We love the Marcus Luttrell's of the world – the Lone Survivor, Gold Star families, gun battle, had more strength of character, honestly, Lewis Puller, like some books, Lone Survivor, Luttrell told journalist Tina Brown. They only want to talk to me about the worst week of my life. Marcus Luttrell, Marcus Luttrell, Michael Murphy, more faith in God, mythology, Operation Red Wings, Patriot Tour, Peter Berg, plane crash, Tina Brown, war 17 Comments


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Some people elect not to receive blood transfusions or blood products during surgery. This approach is known as "bloodless medicine," and there are a number of medical and ethical reasons why a patient might make this decision.
Bloodless medicine is an exciting field made possible by a growing number of cutting-edge techniques. Many of these techniques are only available in select medical centers that have the right equipment and clinical staff trained in bloodless methods. If you want to know more, this guide explains how surgeries can be safely performed without blood transfusions or major blood products.
Learn More
Blood products - overview
Cardiovascular system
Jehovah's Witnesses - position overview


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Results 1 to 2 of 2
Thread: G5 Asd
Hybrid View
G5 Asd
Arrow Squareing Device
Anyone get one of these yet and what are your opinions? Heard someone talking about them, maybe even on here, but was not that intrigued, but know I am so lets have it.I cut things up and split them down!
- Join Date
- Sep 2005
- Location
- Northern OK.
- Posts
- 31
I've been using one for the past 2 yrs. Is it worth it and does it work?....well, in my opinion yes. So far, with the use of the ASD, everytime I spin test an arrow, it is dead on.
It is kinda awkward to use at first but once you get the technique down you can do an arrow in seconds. I shoot carbons and cut and build all of my arrows. After cutting an arrow I use the ASD carbon on the tip end and the nock end of my arrows. I then glue in the insert put in the nock and then spin test the arrow. 95% of the time thats all that is needed, everything spin tests great. Every once in a while I will have to use the ASD aluminum cutter on the insert, but not often. I think some of the insert surface ends are not square to begin with.
I just like knowing both the nock and insert ends are square and in proper alignment.


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A participant in Aggregate Research Industries' Industry Forum ( www.aggregateresearch.com/forum) recently posted an interesting question that has challenged our industry since fibers were introduced. The participant started by stating that he's noticed a disturbing trend in a recently prepared set of field cylinders. Samples batched with synthetic reinforcing fibers on one project were breaking at lower compressive strengths than mixes with comparable designs but that used different types of fibers. He said that he suspected that the contractor had authorized water additions, but field records did not support this.
He than asked, "Do you know any reasons why these strength results would be lower if fibers were used in comparable mixes?"
The question stirred interest from a wide group. Although the question seems simple, it touches on a wide range of issues of which producers should be aware when batching fiber-reinforced concrete.
Comparing the performance of a concrete mix design that is identical to others but uses a different type of fibers can become a very complex exercise. It raises at least three additional qualifying questions: What type of fiber? What percentage of mix volume do the fibers make up? What is the fibers' geometry?
Numerous types of fibers are used in concrete construction. These range metallic to mineral to synthetic. Each material can affect concrete strength in its own way. In general, it seems that most fibers should have no detrimental effect on ultimate strength. For instance, ACI 544 reports that when hardened concrete is tested, the ultimate strength is only slightly affected by the presence of steel fibers, "with observed [strength] increases ranging from 0% to 15% for up 1.5% by volume of fibers."
It seemed that the participants assumed that the query referred to concrete batched with polypropylene fibers. In the section 4.3.72 of the same ACI document, the committee generally states that "It can be said that the addition of polypropylene fibers at different quantities [ranging from 0.1-2.0] has no effect on the compressive strength." It would seem that unexpected strength loss would have to be caused by another mechanism. Many participants commented on contractor training in using fiber-reinforced concrete. One producer presented a unique observation to a similar problem.
Several years ago, the lab manager reported that the company had conducted tests that produced low compressive strengths on a project. The lab staff conducted a "root-cause analysis" and determined that the cause of the low strengths was linked to high air entrainment. Also, this problem was found in a particular brand of fiber that was used.
The lab sent samples of the fibers to two reputable laboratories for analysis. The testing lab extracted from the fibers a yellow, viscous liquid in a concentration of approximately 0.88% by weight. Using infrared spectrum analysis, the researchers determined that the liquid was an anionic surfactant, a chemical commonly used as an air-entraining additive.
The producer assumed that the surfactant was present in the fibers and/or bag as either an anti-static agent or a processing aid. But based on the significant weight of the extracted air-entraining residue from the fiber (almost 1% by weight of fibers), the fiber could contribute to the air entrainment of concrete when dosed at a rate of 1-1.5 pounds per cubic yard.
In the same sample, the second laboratory found napthalenic sulfonate derivatives (salts of petroleum acids) and the presence of methylene blue, both active surfactants which in which the presence of strong bases, e.g., lime, could facilitate a foaming reaction. Needless to say, the problem of low breaks disappeared when the producer switched to different brand of fiber.
From what most experts say, the producer's problem that developed from the packing materials is very rare. Most low-break problems are caused by perceived workability issues. It an important and complex subject that we'll discuss in a future issue.


text:
Phone: --
Office: Online
E-mail: email@example.com
DMA in Progress - Currently ABD, Clarinet Performance and Literature, University of Illinois
MM, Clarinet Performance, University of Illinois
BME, Music Education, Youngstown State University
Clarinet Lessons
Clarinet Ensemble
Community Band
Fundamentals of Music Theory
Music History I and II
Champaign Urbana Symphony Orchestra, Third Clarinet
Member of International Clarinet Association
Originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Mrs. Shuler is currently working as Adjunct Faculty at Chadron State College. Shuler holds an undergraduate degree from Youngstown State University and has completed graduate work at the University of Illinois. Her primary clarinet teachers include J. David Harris, Robert Fitzer, and Joseph Edwards. At the moment, Mrs. Shuler is working on her doctoral thesis, which focuses on Benny Goodman's commissions of classical style chamber works involving clarinet.
Prior to working at CSC, Shuler worked as the Clarinet Teaching Assistant at the University of Illinois and spent a number of years teaching music at the high school and middle school levels in both public and private schools. She continues to stay active as a clarinetist performing with the Champaign Urbana Symphony Orchestra. She has been heard in performances throughout the United States as well as abroad in Japan and Spain.
Copyright © Chadron State College. All Rights Reserved.
Member, Nebraska State College System • Employment Opportunities • Equal Opportunity Employer • Title IX Reporting/Resources
Accreditation Information • Website Feedback
1000 Main Street, Chadron, NE 69337 • 1-800-CHADRON


text:
Of the hotels near Covent Garden, the four star Kingsley Hotel in Bloomsbury offers the best hotel deals in London's West End. Thistle Holborn, The Kingsley's room rate breaks and special value offers and upgrade packages are a great way for our guests to make the most of their travel, entertainment and leisure budgets.
If you are looking for hotel offers near Covent Garden hotel, treat yourself to luxury hotel rooms and service at affordable prices at Thistle Holborn, The Kingsley Hotel (formerly Thistle Bloomsbury). Guests are reminded to look into the Thistle Holborn, The Kingsley Hotel best online rate guarantee!
Looking for hotel rate discounts in Holborn near the Piccadilly Line or need a hotel near Fleet Street with upgrade packages and special holiday offers, Thistle Holborn, The Kingsley Hotel is for you. If you'd like us to let you know when we bring out new offers and packages at Thistle Holborn, The Kingsley, join our mailing list and we'll keep you updated.


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South America ACCESS Global Surface Wind +24 hour Chart
- location
- Africa
- Asia
- Europe
- New Zealand
- North America
- South America
About ACCESS Global
Australian Community Climate and Earth-System Simulator (ACCESS). Based upon the UK Met Office Unified Model system. ACCESS G is the global numerical forecast model operated by the BoM. It is run twice daily (00Z and 12Z) and provides forecast data out to 240 hours with a horizontal resolution of 25km and 70 vertical levels.
Weather News
Man hurt after awning collapses 'like a bag of spuds' during Mount Hawthorn downpour
A man has been injured after being hit by an awning that collapsed during heavy rain in the northern Perth suburb of Mt Hawthorn.
Cyclone Debbie farmers on long road to recovery in north Queensland
Some north Queensland farmers are slowly getting back to some kind of normalcy as they continue to recover from Cyclone Debbie.
July rain stacking up in Perth
Perth was soaked by heavy showers this morning, continuing a trend of frequent wet weather in the city this month.


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Thursday, April 8, 2010
John Green and Dynamic Character Relationships
For those who have Looking for Alaska on their "gap" book list, the basic plot is this: a boy, quickly nicknamed Pudge by his roommate "The Colonel," is attending a boarding school and develops a very strong crush on a girl named Alaska (not a nickname), who is beautiful but flighty/uneven/intense. She has a boyfriend but she seems somewhat intrigued by Pudge, and their relationship forms the backbone of the book as they embark upon pranks and general attempts to survive high school.
In addition to unteachable writing techniques like a perfect pitch ear for dialogue and what must be a painfully photographic memory of what it was like to be in high school, the way Green crafts the relationship between Pudge and Alaska is an incredible illustration of how to develop an interesting relationship between two characters.
Every single interaction between Pudge and Alaska advances their relationship in a series of incremental steps that swing between positive and negative emotion, with each interaction more intense than the last. One encounter will leave Pudge feeling like Alaska is the greatest girl in the world, the next minute he feels like she's ignoring him or she's mean to him, and each time he experiences a swing between positive and negative he feels it that much more acutely than the last time.
If you were to map out their interactions over the course of the book, it would look something like this (the question mark is there to avoid a spoiler of whether it ends on an up or down note):
Part of these swings are due to Alaska's wild personality, but this is an almost textbook way to develop an intense relationship on the page. The variance between up and down moments creates suspense as the reader wonders which way it's going to end up going, and since we feel each up and down more acutely than the last, the reader becomes increasingly invested in the relationship. Each time the line swings up to a positive experience it feels earned because Pudge had to suffer through the last negative one.
Too often when aspiring writers try to craft jousting or intense relationships between characters, the relationships will feel one-note because the characters have roughly the same level of interactions over the course of the book with, say, a positive spike at the end if the they get together. They may well be interesting characters, but when every interaction between them ends in the same mixed place, there isn't the same feeling of investment and suspense. If the relationship doesn't grow in intensity or change dynamics, the reader will very quickly decide they know what they need to know about the relationship and won't be that interested in where it ends up.
On the other hand, when the relationship-o-meter swings between positive and negative poles it feels more true to life. Add increasing intensity and the reader won't be able to turn the page fast enough to see what happens.
What I find interesting about this dynamic is that it's not generally how real life works. Our opinions about people do not tend to swing wildly back and forth based on every interaction we have with them. For the most part our interactions with the people we care about don't tend to end on a definitively positive or definitively negative moments annnnnnd scene. Even when we fight things tend to feel somewhat mixed and muddled.
And yet, on the page (or screen) it works beautifully. The quick swings between up and down in Looking for Alaska evoke the confusion and intensity of first love. We feel connected to the relationship because the characters had to earn it. We learn more about the characters by seeing how they deal with different levels of feelings.
Whenever two characters feel intensely about each other, this formula helps bring the relationship to life.
71 comments:
- John Jack said...
The Very Scientific Graph looks to me like an antagonism (purposes and complications of change) slope of a plot tetrahedron rising toward a climax; increasing efforts, increasing opposition of forces, increasing doubt of outcome.
- April 8, 2010 at 2:10 PM
- JohnO said...
Relationship-o-meters? Scientific graphs? Nathan, I went into writing fiction because I was told there would be no science.
- April 8, 2010 at 2:11 PM
- Kirsten said...
This is so true -- the intensity of a crush (or falling in love) makes emotions so much more vibrant and almost larger-than-life. The roller-coaster up and downs of each interaction are half the fun/intrigue of falling in love :)
LOOKING FOR ALASKA is one of my gap books, but now it's on my summer list!
- April 8, 2010 at 2:11 PM
- Susan Quinn said...
First, I adore you MORE because you have used graphs today. Stop making me like you so much! I hate you for that!
Er, ok, easing out of the teen voice now...
Seriously, this is fascinating. I have just such a see-saw relationship in my WIP, and my betas are whipping rapidly back and forth: "I love him! I hate him!"
To which I think: Exactly.
I hadn't thought about the increasing amplitude, er, intensity part, but I'm going to have to see how that might figure in.
As always, an extremely thoughtful and helpful post! Thanks!
- April 8, 2010 at 2:19 PM
- kathrynjankowski said...
"What I find interesting about this dynamic is that it's not generally how real life works "
Therein lies the challenge. We have to enhance real-life dynamics for the sake of the story while maintaining authenticity and avoiding melodramatic clichés. Piece of cake, right?
- April 8, 2010 at 2:25 PM
- Olleymae said...
Yep, one of my gap books, because I heard that I might not like the ending--this post makes me want to try it anyways, but if I end up in tears it's your fault.
Love the Very Scientific Graph. and I agree with kathrynjankowski ...that's definitely the hard part of writing.
- April 8, 2010 at 2:34 PM
VERY helpful! Thanks a million.
- April 8, 2010 at 2:38 PM
- Lisa Schroeder said...
You made me want to read the book again. And I really should - I read it when it first came out, so that's been awhile.
I'll have to add it to my pile - I'm reading THE SECRET YEAR right now. :)
- April 8, 2010 at 2:43 PM
She loves him. She loves him not. She loves him. She loves him not. A bit like a daisy. Or an oscilloscope. Or tennis. Or PONG, which came out before Nathan was born. Actually my life IS a bit like that at times.
And John Jack, less with the plot tetrahedron please! I'm still getting used to the 2D graph.
- April 8, 2010 at 2:44 PM
- ryan field said...
Another excellent post.
- April 8, 2010 at 2:44 PM
- D. G. Hudson said...
This post reads like a book structure analysis for aspiring writers. I like the point you made regarding real life and fiction life relationships. You're very perceptive about that.
Dynamic characters take a lot of creative investment, but you come to care about them if you do a good job. (in a fictional way, of course)
- April 8, 2010 at 2:46 PM
- buildingalife said...
This is a really great post.
What's weird is that I just finished reading Looking for Alaska. Literally. I closed the back cover, signed onto google reader and this was the first post I saw. Creepy.
- April 8, 2010 at 2:51 PM
- Kim said...
- This comment has been removed by the author.
- April 8, 2010 at 2:52 PM
- Tracy Hahn-Burkett said...
I needed this post. Thank you.
- April 8, 2010 at 3:03 PM
- Book Maven said...
And it's all filtered through the fact that the story is told in flashback. Pudge knows how their relationship ends but the reader doesn't.
At least that's how I remember it. I think John Green is terrific.
- April 8, 2010 at 3:04 PM
- Gretchen said...
THANK YOU for blogging about Looking for Alaska! And for considering it a "gap book" for anyone who hasn't read it. I love John Green. Might I also recommend Paper Towns for anyone out there who hasn't read that one. I actually liked it better than Alaska.
I love the insights about the development of these characters' relationship. Very intriguing, not to mention helpful. Thanks, Nathan!
- April 8, 2010 at 3:06 PM
It works well, because we don't want mundane. The point of picking up a book, or watching a movie, is to step outside of the sphere we know. Strong emotion, positive or negative, makes us feel alive. It's kind of like why good girls like bad boys. It isn't so much about ticking parents off, or wanting to get in trouble, it is about feeling the natural high. A drug if you will.
For years I was a police/fire/911 dispatcher in a rural town. I loved my job. Partially because I helped people, but to be honest, a lot of it had to do with the "rush". Being a dispatcher in that environment provided opportunities to step outside of who I thought I was. I became a certified hostage negotiator/crisis intervention specialist, and I worked closely with the detectives, narcotics task force and the Special Response Team (SWAT).
There was nothing better than walking in to work, on a full moon, Friday night, knowing, not guessing but KNOWING the crap would eventually hit the fan.
Some of the calls were anticlimactic. Your average barking dog, loud music, neighbor parked too close to the caller's driveway. But there were the big ones: The fire chief rolling a fire truck; the biggest accident in state history, when I got to be the person in the hot seat, calling all the shots; homicides in progress; pursuits; barricaded subjects; felony warrant arrests; meth lab busts &c.
Don't get me wrong, we weren't actually happy these tragedies were happening to people. We were focused on the emotions, like the time a seven year old boy fell out of the back of his father's truck and was ran over by the trailer hauling a bobcat tractor. Or the time I received the call that my best friend's daughter was choking. I handled the calls like the experienced professional I was, but when all was said and done... I cried.
Yet when a successful raid went down, without a hitch; when they caught the pedophile, the serial killer, or the rapist; saved someone from a burning building; when I talked the guy out of shooting his wife and daughter, we celebrated.
It wasn't uncommon to have several dramatic situations, on opposite ends of the spectrum, in the same night, and usually all at once.
But that was work, when I was home I wanted a prosaic life. Most of us have that, or at least strive for it between raising families and keeping a relationship together. Few have an adrenaline junkie job, so when we read we want something we don't have. We want to step outside of feeling numb and experience the manic-depressive, if you will. We identify with those characters because we want to feel alive, too.
- April 8, 2010 at 3:09 PM
- K. M. Walton said...
Absolutely going to read that book. You've given me a lot to think about...
- April 8, 2010 at 3:11 PM
- T. Anne said...
OK, I'm sold. I hope it's available for the Kindle. I'll consider it a teaching tool. Sounds like a fun read too.
BTW, I graph every one of my WIPS as I go along. I'm a visual person, and this helps me see the pinch points in my novel.
- April 8, 2010 at 3:14 PM
- T. Anne said...
Just purchased this on Kindle. John Green can thank you now.
- April 8, 2010 at 3:17 PM
Sorry, should have edited that before I posted.
My mind doesn't edit while creating, so I have to write, then go back and edit or it looks like that. :(
- April 8, 2010 at 3:18 PM
- Lyn Miller-Lachmann said...
- This comment has been removed by the author.
- April 8, 2010 at 3:19 PM
- Lyn Miller-Lachmann said...
I like the graph for the way it shows both the escalating highs and lows and the ideal number of them. Too few ups and downs, and the climax seems unearned. Too many and the story becomes predictable and melodramatic.
This model works not only for developing the intensity of the relationship but also for raising the overall stakes. In my WIP, the relationship between the two teenage characters is really about something else (of which the main character is ignorant), with increasingly higher stakes in each encounter between the girl and the boy.
- April 8, 2010 at 3:21 PM
- Kimberly Kincaid said...
GAH! Nathan, that's screaming brilliant!
I haven't read this book, but absolutely will. I am looking forward to reading it with the graph in mind, and am intrigued by the dynamic. I write contemporary romance, and relationships intrigue me because they must :) So I can't wait to dive into this.
I will just throw this out there- you mentioned that life doesn't exactly work in terms of these extremes (love you! no hate you! no...), but I'll argue that for a YA audience, life works EXACTLY like this. All those hormones with no place to go- really? The thought of it is enough to scare off a charging rhino, if said rhino knows what's good for it. So the target audience is probably able to easily identify with the concept. Brilliant move on John Green's part. But then, the book sounds brilliant in general.
On my way to fill in a tiny gap in the grander scheme of The Books Less Traveled. Yeah. My gap list is embarrassingly long. But it gives me something nice to look forward to at the end of the day :)
Thanks for the insight!
- April 8, 2010 at 3:45 PM
- Yat-Yee said...
Eh, I placed an order for this very book this morning and now find that you've written a post on it. I'll be sure to come back to check out your very scientific method after I read the book.
- April 8, 2010 at 3:46 PM
- Linda Godfrey said...
I'm with Julieanne; I don't need to read about normal. I live it every day.
Graphing my WIP may be a stretch for my artsy-oriented head but you have pointed out something I'd never thought about before and I am grateful. I may at least make a relationship outline chapter by chapter. Thanks!
- April 8, 2010 at 3:49 PM
- Elaine AM Smith said...
Great to see writing with a graph feturing strongly: the very first thing I did, before I planed my wip, was to draw the graph of how I wanted Jess to feel. Then, I work out what would make her feel that way.
- April 8, 2010 at 3:54 PM
- Marilyn Peake said...
Interesting post. I love your "VERY SCIENTIFIC graph". :) Here's my take on this topic...
All novels, except those purposefully designed to defy the tradition, must have tension. The story must also be bigger than life, in order to highlight certain important aspects of life. Dialogue needs, for the most part, to be distilled into meaningful expression, rather than include all the filler parts of real human conversation. In the case of LOOKING FOR ALASKA, Alaska's recklessness and self-destructive nature add to the tension of the novel. There are other novels in which something other than a chaotic romantic relationship creates the primary tension, e.g. novels in which the primary tension arises out of a fight between good and evil. In ROMEO AND JULIET, their love was constant, but tension was created by the battle between their families which made their own situation chaotic. In HOUSE OF LEAVES by Mark Z. Danielewski, although there's tension between husband and wife, the main tension is with their seemingly possessed house. And, of course, there are books like ENCOUNTER WITH TIBER by Astronaut Buzz Aldrin and science fiction writer John Barnes, one of my most favorite science fiction books ever, in which the main tension is made up of politics and dangerous situations while exploring outer space. It's awesome that there are so many ways for writers to create tension within their fiction.
- April 8, 2010 at 3:58 PM
- Jonathon Arntson said...
Spot on!
- April 8, 2010 at 4:01 PM
- Mira said...
What a cool variety of posts this week.
Nathan, you're a very talented blogger.
And writing teacher. This is really interesting, and I hadn't conceptualized it this way. I like the organized thoughtfulness here.
Also, your point about the difference between real life and this type of intensity is very apt.....Thinking about it, I think books capture not real life, but how real life FEELS to us. Maybe?
I think we all experience love this way, even if it's not really what's happening. I'm not sure I'm explaining this well - but when you have feelings for someone, you don't know how they feel, so you look for clues. And every interaction becomes very important and dramatic.
(Some)Adults learn to take it with a grain of salt, and enjoy it, but that's just because they went through teenage angst and learned by experience not to take it so seriously.
But we can all identify with it - where every interaction has so much riding on it. That feeling inside.....books capture that feeling.
I'm sort of thinking this through as I type, because it's so interesting that books are not real life, but they have to RING true, or they don't work.
Anyway, thanks for the helpful and thought-provoking post.
And the book recommendation. :)
- April 8, 2010 at 4:04 PM
- mary said...
So basically we're all aiming to create characters with borderline personality issues. Right. No problem.
By the way, I love your blog, Nathan.
No, wait. I HATE THIS BLOG.
Oh yeah, I actually do love it passionately with my entire being!
There. Look how much closer that little bit of conflict brought us.
- April 8, 2010 at 4:21 PM
- Melissa Gill said...
I loved this book. One of my teacher friends gave it to me when she found out I was writing YA. I think about this book at least once a week because of that profound question the teacher asked to write a paper about. Good call Nathan
- April 8, 2010 at 4:30 PM
- CS said...
ha ha mary that's exactly what i was thinking!
- April 8, 2010 at 4:31 PM
Hmmm. It does work for LFA, but not his other books, so much. In fact, he tried to do the same thing in Paper Towns and sort of failed because Margo was so prickly and unlikeable-- you can alternate too much with that once we were friends, and then she ignored me, and then she took me out for a night of pranks, and now she's disappeared, but inexplicably wants me to find her, even though she doesn't like me, and I will! I'll find her! But when I get there she's pissed that I found her, and then she leaves.
End of book.
So before everyone goes and re-writes their mss to have love-hate-love whiplash, it truly doesn't work for every book, even if you are John Green. (I think I'm allowed that criticism since I paid hardcover prices for his last three books).
- April 8, 2010 at 4:39 PM
- Nathan Bransford said...
I haven't read that one and thus can't agree or disagree on the particulars, but just in principle I agree that as with any writing tool, this technique can be done well and not well. If characters are just swinging back and forth willy nilly or if their fights don't come across meaningfully and realistically you're going to give the reader whiplash and they'll stop caring. I also would hesitate to adhere to the back and forth model too strictly, lest it become predictable.
I also agree with Kimberly that these swings are felt more keenly by young people, and I think you can get away with a bit more quick and intense swings than you can in an older novel because that's what young love feels like.
This essential push/pull is an important in relationships in books, but it's not a strict formula. More like a rough guide.
- April 8, 2010 at 4:48 PM
- Lady Glamis said...
Excellent points. Thank you for a great post and ideas to ponder for creating more dynamic relationships in writing.
- April 8, 2010 at 4:49 PM
- Yat-Yee said...
Anon @1:39: I had that same reaction to Margo as well. I just felt as if her character is almost manipulative. Made reading about this boy who's so in love with her just not that enjoyable.
I am going to read Alaska and see how I like it.
- April 8, 2010 at 4:57 PM
- Vijaya said...
Wow! I finally understand something I need to do in my own wip: magnify the ping-pong reactions/emotions as the story progresses.
- April 8, 2010 at 5:01 PM
Question about YA for Nathan:
Is there a too dark area for YA literature?
Does it ever get a rating?
- April 8, 2010 at 5:19 PM
This was so helpful, I'm printing it as I type!
- April 8, 2010 at 5:20 PM
- Caledonia Lass said...
We live in Alaska and my teenager had to read this in her Language Arts class. :D
- April 8, 2010 at 5:24 PM
- Krista V. said...
Very informative post, Nathan. I've never thought about developing a key relationship between characters in that way. Thanks for this.
- April 8, 2010 at 5:30 PM
- Daryl Sedore said...
Another great post. I don't read YA, but you've instilled an interest in trying John Green out.
Since characterization is something I'm always working on I would love to see what he did that inspired the post here.
(By the way; what inspires one to remove comments? I wonder what they said.)
- April 8, 2010 at 5:30 PM
"What I find interesting about this dynamic is that it's not generally how real life works." Unless you are Alaska, you are speaking for yourself, here.
- April 8, 2010 at 6:03 PM
- Sissy said...
I find this very interesting! Thanks.
- April 8, 2010 at 6:13 PM
- Lyn Miller-Lachmann said...
<<(By the way; what inspires one to remove comments? I wonder what they said.)>>
Speaking from experience here: Made a mistake in the original comment and wanted a do-over.
- April 8, 2010 at 6:48 PM
- Beautiful said...
My sentiments, exactly Mary.
this blog.
- April 8, 2010 at 7:17 PM
Something I wish I coud be taught: perfect pitch ear for dialogue. "Alaska" sounds like my 33 year marriage to my late, great first wife. Always on the edge. But hang me if I can get it down on paper in a way that would keep people reading.
- April 8, 2010 at 7:24 PM
- Madeleine said...
Actually, I have a couple of relationships that are nearly always up-and-down. It's irritating and interesting. :D
And, yes, LOOKING FOR ALASKA is on my gap list. I've had it as a to-read on Goodreads for a long time.
- April 8, 2010 at 7:52 PM
- Laura said...
Am I the only person who did NOT like LOOKING FOR ALASKA? I found it completely predictable, how could anyone like the character of Alaska? Maybe I just don't like self-destructive characters (I loathe Heathcliff, Catherine Linton, etc).
I never quite saw the fascination with John Green and find him to be a bit overrated.
- April 8, 2010 at 7:59 PM
- Zachary Grimm said...
I almost picked this one out to read it at my library about a month ago, Nathan. Now I feel I must. Thanks! :)
Oh, and I hereby renounce the negative vibes I had to Stephanie Meyers's "Twilight." It's actually a pretty good book. Being surprised about a book is fun!
- April 8, 2010 at 8:09 PM
All this hate/love/hate/love is sort of how I feel about the publishing industry. I flirt with it and it winks back. I sit around waiting for it to call, it never does, so I begin to hate it. Then, just when I'm crawling on the floor, gnashing my teeth, my book sells. I'm over the moon and can't imagine any greater love. My next book? "Thanks, but no thanks." I rip up all our love letters and draw horns and a devil tail on every photo.
One minute I want to stick a needle in its eye, and the next I'm ready to have its baby!
- April 8, 2010 at 8:27 PM
- abc said...
I agree with Kimberly K. (and later, Nathan) that this kind of relationship is pretty perfect for YA. First love/lust/infatuation is intense and crazy and all sorts of crying yourself to sleep kind of times (what, you didn't do that in high school?) When you are living with an adolescent brain, the ups and downs are more intense. Adolescents are all about FEELING.
Po Bronson and Ashley Merryman have a great section on this in their book Nurture Shock (The Science of Teen Rebellion, I believe).
While I find graphs a little too left-brained, I like this one and this whole post is--as always--a great kick the in pants for me and my current WIP. I have to wonder if Alaska has Borderline Personality Disorder. Or perhaps she is Bi-Polar. I haven't read the book, but, man, poor Pudge.
Well, off to Amazon.com for my next read. YA books are the most fun!
- April 8, 2010 at 8:36 PM
- Kevin said...
This Pole to Pole growth in character relationships is well discussed in a great many books on the craft. Aristotle started it in The Poetics. Lagos Egri discusses it in the Art of Dramatic Writing, Christopher Vogler in The Writers Journey, James N Frey in How to Write a Damn Good Novel (the best craft handbook of them all) and Robert McKee in Story, who also points out that the 'graph' can end up both positive and negative in what he calls an ironic closure.
What's absolutely crucial though, (and I haven't read Looking for Alaska) is that the swings between negative and positive are organic and they grow out of the dynamics of the story's action. Arbitrarily creating a negative reaction because the last one was positive can appear exactly as it is: contrived and emotionally false, which of course leads us into the area of stereotypes and cliches.
The key of course, is to know your characters so well that you can write from inside their emotional centres. Most writers don't spend enough time with their characters to be able to live within their emotional capacities at the time of putting them into action and creating dialogue. But, once in that position, the rest flows naturally.
Excellent topic Nathan.
- April 8, 2010 at 8:38 PM
- Madeline said...
I love love LOVE John Green and LOOKING FOR ALASKA, and this post is brilliant and so so so true.
- April 8, 2010 at 8:59 PM
- Anita said...
We were actually taking our daughter to interviews at a swanky private school AS I was reading ALASKA. I was like, "Hmmmm, maybe the public school is gonna work after all."
I liked ALASKA, but thought AN ABUNDANCE OF KATHERINES was better.
- April 8, 2010 at 11:04 PM
- Steve said...
Nathan, you said:
"Our opinions about people do not tend to swing wildly back and forth based on every interaction we have with them."
I flatly refuse to believe you were never an infatuated teenager (in which such opinion swings are entirely the norm). I attribute this silly statement to selective amnesia. :)
- April 8, 2010 at 11:32 PM
- Claire Dawn said...
Nice review. Definitely needs to be added to my TBR list.
- April 9, 2010 at 12:25 AM
- atsiko said...
I don't know, Nathan... I may not have a photographic memory, but from what I remember of highschool (which for me was not all that long ago), people's feelings could swing around pretty quick, and they swung wide.
I should also point out that first love and a five-year-old relationship are not exactly the same thing. I think it's much more likely to involve quick swings because we don't really have a set impression of the person yet, so it's easy to think maybe you were wrong the first time--or the eighth, I suppose. Especially if the people involved are individually intense or moody. Or still in an uncomfortable place in their general social development or the specific relationship. Sounds a lot like highschool to me.
- April 9, 2010 at 12:38 AM
- Ted Cross said...
I really don't like it that relationships in novels must be so wildly different from real life ones, but I do understand the reasons behind it. I don't do this in my novel, though, because the one small relationship that develops is not meant to be in any way the focus of the story, so I t(think I) portray it more realistically. Sadly, that may mean agents would rather I cut it out.
- April 9, 2010 at 4:13 AM
- Kate Evangelista said...
For someone who enjoys writing romance, I learned a lot from this post. Thanks! Now, I have to find this book.
- April 9, 2010 at 8:54 AM
- Janny said...
"For the most part our interactions with the people we care about don't tend to end on a definitively positive or definitively moments annnnnnd scene."
Am I the only one to whom this sentence made absolutely no sense? Were there words left out here?
- April 9, 2010 at 9:30 AM
I'm constantly surprised and frustrated by aspiring writers slavish adherence to the 'real' world.
Be it in dialogue or the dynamics of a relationship, the ways of the real world should never be taken as an absolute barometer of whether something either works or doesn't work in a fictional context.
Different rules apply. Things happen all the time in real life which we don't accept in fiction.
- April 9, 2010 at 9:47 AM
- Jaymi said...
Thank you, Nathan, for the reomendation. I read this book and LOVED it.
- April 10, 2010 at 9:42 AM
- TheFan said...
so i read the book over the weekend on your recomendation and it was pretty much a perfectly made book. But i didnt find the relationship to be very intense. Sure, there were up and down moments but those were caused becaused Alaska was suh a moody and secretive character. I think the intensiity you speak up was exclusive to these characters and it wouldn't really work when applied to other characters.
[/2 cents]
- April 10, 2010 at 10:23 PM
- what i would have worn... said...
Great post. I'm digging out my geometry set as soon as I finish typing. I was in need a new reason to procrastinate; now I couldn't possibly start on my 3rd draft before making a graph!
- April 11, 2010 at 4:55 AM
- Becca said...
I'm actually in the middle of reading this book after I picked it up at the Five Below store.
I am so glad I finally found a good book. Everything I've been reading lately just makes me cringe.
- April 15, 2010 at 11:11 PM
- Katy said...
I just bought a few weeks ago this on your recommendation, and just finished it -- absolutely fantastic! I can't believe I'd never heard of it until I saw your post!
- May 3, 2010 at 1:33 PM
Awesome! This post saved me from doing something terrible.
- June 27, 2010 at 7:37 PM
- a_v_s said...
The graph looks good for conflict dynamic between young adults: as a teenager, you often feel overwhelmed. The peers' vices and aggression are bigger and stronger than you. They toss you around like an ocean wave does.
However, here is a question about writing for younger children (elementary school). While they do experience conflicts, they are not usually so focused on them as teens are. They are more focused on action and dialogue. So, it would seem, for a children's book, one could sketch two graphs: one for conflict (occasionally flattening out), and another for action and dialogue. Any recommendations for this specific age group?
- August 2, 2012 at 2:33 PM
- Nathan Bransford said...
I don't know, I think the graph is relatively universal. The intensity might be different, but the ups and downs are not.
- August 2, 2012 at 2:34 PM


text:
Ok, you'll know that the algorithm used by Speedtouch routers to generate the default password has been discovered, for example here:
What it's not clear to me is it says the algorithm takes the router's serial number to generate ESSID and password
But the serial number is unique, right?
I'm saying this because I'm sure I found several routers with the same ESSID, that should then have the same password
I'm Winston Wolf, I solve problems
Thanks for your explanation!
OK, so you mean that, starting from different serial number, with that algorithm you can get same ESSID, but different passwords?
Yep, I noticed that the programs to find the password from ESSID proposes several passwords...
I'm Winston Wolf, I solve problems
There is something called SpeedTouchKey.exe , download it @ google (search for it) it should come up quickly, it may get default keys for many types of routers (SpeedTouch) serials, sometimes an option is required to get the key (cause sometimes it does have it but does not shows it).
Its very useful and very quick, faster than 1 minute WEP cracking, :P
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Dual Nvidia GeForce GTX 280M GPUs
Dual 500GB:cool::cool:


text:
Join us for the Trek Across Maine as a volunteer! We are seeking the assistance of 750 volunteers over the course of the weekend to continue the history of oustanding volunteer engagement and support for more than 2,200 cyclists that will be riding across the state. Click the Learn More link above for additional information about available tasks, time commitments and more!
Questions regarding how you can become involved? Email Zoe Nielsen or call 888-241-6566 ext. 0315.
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text:
Auburn's Cameron Newton and Oregon's Darron Thomas Featured Manning Watch List Additions
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
The Manning Award, sponsored by the Allstate Sugar Bowl, announced 10 additions to its 2010 Watch List on Oct. 25. The winner will be announced after the bowls in January and will be honored at a banquet in New Orleans.
Click here to see the preseason Watch List
Darron Thomas BIO
The Manning Award will be recognizing its seventh winner this year. USC's Matt Leinart was the inaugural winner of the award in 2005, followed by Texas' Vince Young in 2006. Both went on to be top 10 NFL draft picks. In 2007, LSU's JaMarcus Russell earned the award and was the NFL's No. 1 draft pick. Boston College's Matt Ryan claimed the award in 2008 and was drafted No. 3, quickly becoming the starting quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons. In 2009, Florida star Tim Tebow earned the honor - he also went on to be selected in the first round of the NFL Draft. Last year's winner was Texas signal-caller Colt McCoy, the winningest quarterback in college football history. McCoy was picked by the Cleveland Browns in the 2010 NFL Draft.


text:
Read the full story here Web Link posted Monday, September 30, 2013, 5:02 PM
Town Square
Local women go 'Beyond' with burlesque troupe
Original post made on Oct 1, 2013
Read the full story here Web Link posted Monday, September 30, 2013, 5:02 PM
a resident of Danville
on Oct 1, 2013 at 7:47 am
I thought this was a rather cute article until I got to the end... Rowley made a REALLY stupid comment. "America's made it like don't shake your hips where in other countries, it's ok to move around to feel good about yourself." This is absolutely false in every sense of the word. This comment is obviously made by someone who has NO understanding of other countries or cultures. There are a few countries that accept and appreciate the beauty of a woman's body, but there are far MORE countries who think women should not be seen or heard, who prefer women be cloaked and covered and walk several paces behind their men.
America is the most liberal of all countries so to make that comment is ridiculously stupid and unreal. Be happy you're in America where you have the freedom to shake your ass, if you want to...
a resident of Danville
on Oct 1, 2013 at 9:25 am
I found the 3rd photo quite amusing. Read the sign above her head.
a resident of Danville
on Oct 1, 2013 at 9:25 am
I thought yours was a rather cute comment until I got to the end.
You made the statement: "REALLY stupid comment... absolutely false in every sense of word" yet you go on to say "America is the most liberal of all countries".
You're an idiot.
a resident of Diablo
on Oct 1, 2013 at 9:59 am
BEYOND Burlesque? Does that mean The Full Matildy?
a resident of Alamo
on Oct 1, 2013 at 10:41 am
Dear Rowley...You noted, This is art, this is about loving yourself.
Rowley, you are very mixed up...it's not about loving yourself...it's all about EGO. Oh yes and a lot of frustrated 30 and 40 year old brain deprived people.
One statement I read, I have never been so comfortable with my body. You are mostly right. But I would suggest pole dancing and letting guys stuff your panties with green paper...GO GREEN.
Thanks for listening, Julia Pardini from Alamo
a resident of Alamo
on Oct 1, 2013 at 1:37 pm
There's really nothing.... nothing... NOTHING else they could be doing with their time? Contributing to the community rather than stuffing their limitless narcissistic holes? And Jessica, there's NOTHING else you could be reporting on?
a resident of Danville
on Oct 1, 2013 at 4:49 pm
Well, I don't know Dickita, but if they need a grope.... er, I mean a GROUP photographer, I'm sure I could spare some time.
a resident of Danville
on Oct 4, 2013 at 8:33 pm
You go, ladies! Beautiful photos of beautiful women, having a great time. What's not to love?
a resident of Vista Grande Elementary School
18 hours ago
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