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I've always enjoyed the old fables about the various animals and their doing, like "how Bear lost his tail" or "why Leopard has spots". I''d been thinking about trying to write something for that genre myself, and the other day I suddenly found myself with an hour or two of unexpected free time. So I simply sat myself down at the first computer I chanced to come upon, and soon tappity-tapped my way through the entirety of this story. It's inspired by a combination of the British ban on fox-hunting, my love for trickster figures and all the folk-tales about clever foxes I grew up with. The original plan was to make several of these little stories, all of them focusing on various foxes and their doings, but I'll just have to wait and see how it goes before commenting further on this.
This is my attempt at a piece of folklore, an old song about the mythical figure known as 'Old Man black'. The people see him as the personification of death, and the owner of all souls that have died. This song illustrates common belief in why necromancy is so dangerous: In trying to master death, you essentially surrender your life to him before actually dying. In trying to command him, you end up his slave. Hmmm. I really have to upload those myths about him soon, so I won't have to explain all this all the time.
Ok, ok, I know I've posted quite a lot of myths already! This was actually supposed to only be a couple of short lines of what my main villain believed to be true in the world. But it grew into this weird holy text devoted to the Lady of Darkness (name pending). She's more or less 'The Dark Lord/Lady' in my stories, the Evil Goddess. It was extremely fun writing the history of the world from her perspective, and show what her followers believe. It will make it a lot easier for me to make her followers more human, since they actually believe they're on the good side.
Our story continues with this very short and insignificant chapter. I'd read too much Lovecraft when I wrote it. We get glimpses and moods here, but not much substance. S'good anyway.
As in most worlds, the dwarves and elves in mine aren't all that fond of each other. Over the years, songs and poems like this one are written to spread false rumors and intensify the hate they feel. I like to include things like this. It makes the world seem more real, since they show a more normal side of things.
The Grand Finale, the Great Climax: After the terrible disaster has struck, and all his plans have shown their ultimate consequences, Murkha makes a final gambit to save himself, his world and his companion. But will the desperate plans of a single over-proud magician be enough to stop the incarnation of the Nameless? And even worse: What will happen if he should succeed? EDIT: I have been informed that the small line included in a magical formula needs to be translated. It's in Sylvan (self-made lingo), and reads roughly like this: 'We give pattern to they who have no pattern. I dance sorcery on them and upon their life' More or less. For more info on Sylvan, don't hesitate to ask.
Another text that was supposed to be something else. Started out as a short piece of information on the Moons religion, worshipping the two moons in my world. Then I discovered that the text rhymed, so I just split the lines and added more verses. Somehow I think my inner poet managed to compel my subconscious. So, here we have a spiritual/religious hymn/chant/song to the two holy moons!
Its a follow-up for my previous text, 'The First Polarity', and it describes how and why mortal beings can use magic, and how the gods came to be.
This one is a little unusual for several reasons. It's my first sci-fi, its not set in my standard alternate world, and it was written as a school assignment. The assignment was to write a story to the title 'Saved'. It turned out that I was the only one who hadn't written about someone shipwrecked. To my defense as to the whole mood of the text: I had read WAY too much Discworld the previous evening.
Our reluctant protagonist finally ventures forth to undo the damage he has done. And not only must he through daunting acts of combat and action, but he has a rather unexpected ally as well...
OK, I usually don't do sequels to my stories, but since 'The Investiagation of Enquirer Rotier' became so popular I was tempted. Some people asked me to write more about him, and my first thought was that this would be hard, seeing as the main character has no personality to speak of. But my mind started working on the idea, and here is the result. Now, firstly, this story ended up almost twice as long as the previous one. Depending on how you wiew my writing, this may or may not be a good thing. Secondly, this time I plunged down into dark, icky horror. I'm afraid that this story won't measure up to the predecessor, since they are completely different flavor-wise, but I hope it won't be TOO bad. If you haven't read the first story, don't worry. I wrote them to be entirely independant of each other.
Not too long ago, the humans and the elves were engaged in a bloody and fast war against each other. For quite a while the false rumours and stereotypes they had of the other had generated lots of bad feelings. This is one of the more typical, depicting how the humans wieved the elves before the struggle, and why they started fighting.
This was mainly an experiment. I was trying to write about a character I find highly intruiging, but it was (in my opinion) a horrible failiure. It's set in the same Empire as the 'Choices of Murkha' series, but the similarities end there. I was trying for a disorienting, desperate and fear-inspiring feel to this, with a healthy helping of melancholia. But I eally despised it. you might disagree, though
Basically, this is a letter from one of the more obscure high mages to his ex-apprentice. Athuine was created as a shadow-mage, but I wanted to explain how darkness can hold such power, since it is a very important aspect in my stories and plots. If I manage, you will see more of my book, where Athuine plays an important role.
This is one of the many prophecies about the end of the world. Every mythology has at least one, and so it was only fitting that mine should have one too, although I must admit I was heavily inspired by 'Good Omens' when I made it. It is also entirely true for my world, and anyone who has read 'The First Polarity' knows where the Four come from, and why they can do what they do.
Finally we get some action as our hero ventures forth into the city proper. Some nice portraying of the Empire as we go, a new character is introduced, and some mysteries are improved. Good read, though not as exiting as the next chapter.
A very short piece on the fallout from the terrible disaste Murkha brought aout, and its unexpected consequence. Not to mention some foreshadowing to the next series...
This is the first chapter of my 'Book', which is too long to be a short-story and too short to be a proper book, since it only has six chapters (well, eight when you include the prologue and epilogue). It's about young Murkha, a sorcerer, and his quest of revenge against the Empire he lives in. This text was never planned. I have no idea how it ended up as it did. It all started when I mentioned 'The Oracles' as an obscure reference in a RPG once. One day while I was bored at school (french class) I started drawing what the oracles must look like. Two days later I decided to write a short description to the picture. That description grew and took on a life of its own, becoming this text. And the next 5 chapters. And the prologue and epilogue. Weird when stuff like that happens. It was hell to actually get this onto the internet, but after over a year I managed it! Well, enjoy.
Here Master Rotier tells of how he solved his most horrifying case as an Enquirer. Still set in my alternate world, I've tried to bring the action down on a more human level this time. This is the first time I've tried my hand at horror, and I'm honestly not sure how it went. Was trying to create bad vibes in a different setting and with different means. Perhaps I should use more graveyards and vampires next time;-) PS: I've added a sequel now, called 'Occult Cases'. If you liked this story, check it out.
I was working on a new land in my little fantasy-world, where the undertakers formed a rather strange organization. when the land is overrun by undead and monsters, the guy who cleans up afdterwards is welcomed by vampire and mortal alike. Anyway, this little poem just appeared in my head half-formed during a bus-trip, and it took about 5 minutes to finish. It's more or less one of the texts the undertakers have to learn during their prenticeship, and I thought it helped illustrate one aspect of their philosophy.
This is the prologue for my 'Book'. I hadn't originally planned on having a prologue, but some readers commented on the fact that the first chapter began rather abruptly. It's a VERY short text, and if you like it you should of course read the first chapter, which is WAY better.
We finally reach a bit of exitement. The big Ritual commences, and everything our 'hero' has worked for all this time bears fruit. But will success be what he expects? Read to find out how it goes...
Explanation of how magic works. It is rather technical, but I felt it was needed to define what magicians can and can't do, and why they can do it. This is one of many, many texts handling the subject.
This story came to me in a flash while I was at a concert, more or less fully formed. I really like this opening, but the rest of the chapters still need lots of work. This opens up a new story, several years after 'The Choices of Murkha', and we see that the consequences of our actions never fade away. Quite different from the previous story, in many ways


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Could The Lord of the Rings Oscar winning director Peter Jackson helm a future Doctor Who movie?
Just imagine it; the various creative bods of Weta handcrafting the various worlds and time periods the Doctor travels to, the head- spinning camera moves, the state of the art special effects – it's a tempting geek-overload of the perfect choice for the right project.
Although there's nothing to suggest that this will ever come to pass (Everyone: "You shall not pass!") Jackson, responding to comments made by Matt Smith in Waikato Times (via Stuff.NZ) that he'd love to take the Eleventh Doctor to the picturesque island of New Zealand – with Jackson helming an episode –commented:
I'm a huge Doctor Who fan, and I think Matt's fantastic. Just name a time and place, and I'll be there!
While he's not the first Oscar winning director to declare their love for the show – Steven Spielberg commented that the world would indeed be a 'poorer place' without the Doctor – Jackson, who hired the Seventh Doctor Sylvester McCoy to play Radagast in The Hobbit Trilogy, is the first to openly offer his services in the name of the Doctor.
And what do Oscar winning film directors do best? Make Oscar winning films!
Stars; start aligning please!

subset: commoncrawl


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Be More Than You Can Be
Cambridge, Massachusetts A dozen scientists and one reporter peer into a jungle setting, stalking two mannequins in camouflage. The lights go out, making the task more difficult as they struggle to pass around two pairs of night-vision goggles. Imagine being a soldier in this darkness, fumbling for your goggles to find some hidden enemy. Wouldn't it be easier if you didn't need them, if your eyes had been injected with tiny machines that link to optic nerves so you could see in the infrared?
It sounds like the biomechanical Borg in Star Trek.But army recruits of 2025 can expect such implants--and more--as scientists learn to manipulate atoms and assemble molecules, an area of research known as nanotechnology. The commander of the future will be able to track his troops, using implanted chips that monitor their location and physical condition. Soldiers will wear "smart uniforms" that respond to environmental changes and protect them from incoming fire. Their bodies will be "enhanced" for endurance, thanks to microscopic nanorobots in their muscles. War games that use man/machine integration are already being played.
"Today we strap on night-vision devices," Admiral David Jeremiah, a former member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, announced in 1995, "but by 2025 we almost certainly will implant enhancements in the human body to deal with biological warfare, to enhance visibility [and] increase strength of the soldier."
To shape this future (and perhaps to compete in a field dominated by the navy), the army invited over 200 scientists from government, industry, and academia to attend a three-day conference on "Nanotechnology for the Soldier System" in Cambridge, Massachusetts, last week. The bright-eyed organizers of the conference were from Soldier Systems Command (SSCOM), whose task is to feed, clothe, and protect men and women in uniform. "Most people like us because we aren't killing people," explains Richard Walunas, SSCOM's head of strategic communications.
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But in his keynote speech, Colonel Richard Ross told a different story: "Using technology to our advantage, our soldiers are becoming more lethal, more survivable, and more mobile than ever before." In fact, SSCOM considers the soldier to be a complete weapons platform. "The individual soldier of 2025," Ross said, "will be as effective as a tank of 1995."
Most conference participants were unwilling to speculate about inserting molecular machines into men, but Philip Brandler, director of the army's Natick Research, Development, and Engineering Center, is anything but shy about the prospect. "In general, our intentions and plans have not explored the issue of invasive procedures," he says, "not because we reject it, but because of the difficulty of introducing it. But if the medical community can get it through the FDA, then we'll embrace it."
Brandler is quick to add that today's armed forces are sensitive to the health and safety of their troops. This is not, Brandler assures, the same military that conducted radiation experiments on prisoners, hospital patients, and soldiers during the development of the atomic bomb. "Only once it appears to be acceptable to you," Brandler says, "we will ask it of your sons and daughters who have chosen to wear the uniform."
So far, the applications of nanotechnology have been positive: ink-jet printers, flavor enhancers, lubricants, and photo development processes have all been improved by it. And, with the advent of the nanocomputer, much more becomes possible, as scientists envision shrinking processors to the size of one-tenth of a grain of sand. The implications for medicine are enormous: from cancer treatments to organ replacements and anti-aging therapies, people will be healthier and live longer.
But the military regards this incredible technology as a way to maintain its supremacy on the battlefield. With a martial nonchalance, presenters at the conference predicted that, within 10 years, the army will use "biochips" to keep track of supplies and personnel. Within 20, nanorobots in the body could act as artificial blood cells to protect against biological and chemical warfare, while smart bullets could find their way to targets with perfect precision.
The idea behind nanotechnology is that molecules can work like machines to grab other molecules and press them together until they bond. When scientists reach the point where these machines can replicate, nanotechnology becomes a powerful manufacturing tool that could produce everything from a potato to a diamond space shuttle, all at a remarkably low cost. While this could end fighting over resources, it might also enable nations--and even small groups--to make weapons that would be undetectable yet highly destructive.
Enter the Foresight Insitute, founded by nanoguru Eric Drexler in 1986 to help guide the application of this science. Out in Palo Alto, Christine Peterson, Drexler's wife and the institute's executive director, was happy to share her thoughts on the future of nanotech. "As a child of Vietnam, I was told the military were terrible people," Peterson says. "But so far I've been pleasantly surprised. The reaction is not, 'Oh, we've got to be first.' " But at the conference, researchers kept using phrases like "owning the battlefield," and one slide proclaimed the goal of this gathering: helping the military "own the Nanoworld."
The Foresight Institute's worst-case scenario is for nanotechnology to be developed in some military "black" program--one with no accountability. At this early stage in development, there is little risk of that happening. Nanotechnology remains in the military's "6.1" category, meaning it is basic research whose findings are published. But as a science matures and moves up the system towards 6.4, "advanced development," research tends to get classified. Perhaps the greatest impediment to secrecy is the need to share information--if only to keep an edge.
Part of that edge will come from the private sector, whose participation is ensured by the Technology Transfer Act, which encourages partnerships between the military and industry. Since army strategists predict that future battles will occur in urban terrains, their research is relevant to civilian law enforcement, and SSCOM works with agencies like the San Francisco Police Department and the FBI. Nano-technology will boost surveillance to an unimaginable degree. One expert from the conference asserted that terabit computers will allow police to track virtually everyone as they move through their daily lives. Welcome to The Truman Show.
In the conference's final day, one participant asks a taboo question: With the capabilities of nanotechnology, has anyone considered how it will destabilize the world? The room is silent. A few people sneer. After a minute, someone else raises his hand to ask a question, totally unrelated. The conference moves on. No one has even tried to give an answer.
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April 6, 2012
Jean's Angels won the Craig Billiards Congress of America City Championships on March 10 at the Popular Bar in Craig. The team earned a spot in the 36th annual BCAPL National Championships in May at the Riviera Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. The team, from left, is Kenny Thompson, Dan Alden, Tasha Plantiko and Mario Delgado. Team members not pictured: Monse Gonzalez, Bernie Shoen and John Priquet.
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The Bank of Canada recently declared that the Canadian economy, much like that of the U.S., is officially moving into a recession. Given the current global economic crisis, which sees almost every sector plummeting, there appears to be a dearth of viable investment options (for those who still have any funds to invest). However, the smartest decision during this time of economic turmoil may be to invest in your own weight-loss, or so suggests a study published just last week in the prestigious Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA).
Dr. Volpp and colleagues tracked the weight change in 57 obese individuals (30-70 years of age) who were randomized to either a no-treatment control group or to 1 of 2 financial incentive programs (a lottery incentive group, or a deposit incentive group). All participants were instructed to lower their weight (via diet and exercise) by 1 lb per week for the duration of the 16 week intervention, thus aiming for a total target weight-loss of 16 lbs. Individuals in the incentive groups received their financial rewards on a monthly basis, only if they had met or exceeded their target weight loss (1lb/wk). Those that failed to make the weight-loss goal were merely told how much money they would have received if they had been successful, whereas the control group received no reward regardless of their progress.
Over the course of the 4 month intervention individuals in the incentive groups earned an average of approximately $300, in contrast to $0 awarded to those in the control group. Not surprisingly, the average weight loss achieved by those receiving a financial incentive was significantly greater as compared to that of the control group (13-14lbs vs. 4 lbs, respectively). Furthermore, only 10% of individuals in the control group versus approximately 50% of those in the incentive groups achieved the target weight-loss of 16lbs.
However, during a subsequent 3-month follow-up, study participants gained back much of the lost weight after the cessation of the financial incentives – a finding which is common to most, if not all, weight-loss intervention studies.
This study extends findings of a previous investigation in which participants who were offered $14 per percent decrease in weight lost about 5lbs, while those who were offered no compensation lost 2lbs during the 3 month intervention.
So how can any of this be applied in the real-world?
The thinking goes - if an overweight individual has previously had trouble adhering to a diet and/or exercise program, investing some of his/her own money may provide a strong incentive to stay on track in order to avoid losing money – the basic concept of loss aversion. An associated article in Time suggests, for example, handing over $100 to a trusted friend/spouse/family member and signing a contract before embarking on a lifestyle change. This trusted individual is instructed to return the money in full if the goal is achieved, or otherwise to donate your money to a cause that you find distasteful – i.e. NRA if you are Michael Moore.
Thus, for the sake of financial security and health, overweight individuals may want to move their money from their mutual funds to their weight-loss funds.
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As a "favor" to Uncle Joey, Shelby must deliver a letter to his associate in Orlando where she has been vacationing with her family. When things go terribly wrong, Shelby finds herself being pursued by a Florida Kingpin for the information he thinks she stole. On her own and in trouble, Uncle Joey sends Ramos to her rescue. As Shelby and Ramos take care of unfinished business, Shelby uncovers information about Ramos and a secret that could change his life. On a path of revenge and intrigue, Shelby finds that some secrets are meant to be kept…and others? They can kill.
©2013 Colleen Helme (P)2014 Colleen Helme
Everyone is a genius. But if you judge a fish on it's ability to climb a tree then it will live it's whole life believing it's stupid
"Perfect blend of action mystery and mind reading!"
Who would believe that a family vacation and a simple favor could end up in a life or death battle and a murder? With Shelby Nichols involved? I would!
This, the next installment in the Shelby Nichols adventures from acclaimed author Colleen Helme is another non-stop action roller coaster ride that will keep you coming back for more. I would recommend this book to anyone without hesitation, it is not to be missed. I think Colleen Helme has the potential of being another modern day Agatha Christie.
Usually, I am in real trouble with a Shelby Nichols book (for exceeding my reading budget, and losing sleep!) and this audio book is no exception. As I have been travelling for a living for over four years, normally I need good books to keep me company on long airplane flights. With Secrets That Kill, I was looking for some more long flights, just so I could spend more time listening to the book!
Wendy Tremont King has now established herself as the quintessential Shelby Nichols. In fact, Wendy's voice is SO Shelby at this point that if I heard another actor I would say, "That's not Shelby!" The power and finesse of Ms. King is her understated realism. When she does Ramos's voice, or Uncle Joey's voice, you get the downplayed shift to a deeper more masculine voice, but more importantly you get the menace, the coldness, and the intonations that come with the different personalities. In a narrated audio book, I believe that there must be a symphony between the writer and the narrator. If the voices are not real and believable, the listener's attention could wander. With Wendy King and the Shelby Nichols Adventures, Wendy IS Shelby, and the depth and breadth of Wendy's capabilities makes this audio book incredibly real to the listener. I classify this as "not to be missed".
There is a new element in this 4th book in the Shelby Nichols Adventure series: Romance. When a favor to drop off a letter for Uncle Joey goes murderously wrong, Shelby is stuck in Orlando with Ramos. Well, not exactly stuck, but wanting to help him. The temperature climbs to the boiling point between these two. Can Shelby's love and loyalty for husband Chris win out?
This story delves deep into Ramos's past, and we get a lot of back story for him, but the sizzle between Shelby and Ramos goes off the scale. Yes, the book is still PG rated and this audio story is suitable for tweens and teens as well as mature audiences. You really don't want to miss this one.
In the way that Helme brings out the nuances and details of her characters, in her wonderful chain of consciousness style, in the interaction between Ramos and Shelby, this book is a knock it out of the park slam dunk home run of a novel, without doubt Helme's best to date.
So the good news is, this is a fabulous 5 star addition to the collection, and the bad news is like the chicken and the pig scenario, I find myself committed. Which means that like the ham and eggs, I am very definitely not the involved hen, I am the committed pig - to the series. If Helme pens it, if King narrates it, I'm all in. I'll buy it.
Want something great to listen to on your summer holidays? need a distraction? Need that great new book while driving to keep you focused? Secrets That Kill is the audio book you need.
Really loving audiobooks, this has been the year of the audio for me. Huge booklover all the way around from romance to horror. :)
"I loved it!"
Not ever read the print but in my opinion this series is great on audio!
As much as I love Shelby in this novel I think it was Ramos who I loved the most. He is starting to really like Shelby and he shouldn't because..one she is married and two he is a mob bosses bodyguard. This one puts them together a lot and you get to see some of that chemistry between them and Ramos has fun with it.
She is Shelby and does a great job, but she also does a decent job with the male voices as well.
Reading minds can be hazardous to your health.
I thought Lie or Die was great but Secrets that Kill is by far my favorite one of the series and that is really mainly due to Ramos. That man could come and be my body guard any day...lol. You get a little bit more of Ramos back story in this one and that is really one of the main reason I love this one.
"Truly Enjoyable"
I did not read the printed version.
Shelby singing Alejandro and getting caught by Ramos! Funny, LOL!
Ramos kissing Shelby's palm of her hand. So glad Shelby did not cheat on her husband but is real in the fact that she is attracted to Ramos.
Ramos's family story was sad, but no tears.
I drive 2.5 hours from Baltimore Airport to Delaware 2x/week, listening to this series makes the drive fly by....Truly Enjoyable!
I am addicted to books, audible books, kindle and my 18 beautiful cats! And one dog and a husband too. Lol
"Very good listen, and yummy Ramos."
This book helps to develop Ramos' personality and history. It was entertaining and showed the soft side of the hardened hit man.
Sci-fi, detective, cozy. Only give 5s to those books I think stand above the rest. 4 is a good solid book. 3 is average, nothing special.
"Ramos' back story"
A very good addition to the series. Fleshes out Ramos a lot. A little change of scene for this one, keeping the series fresh.
"The series keeps getting better!"
I have already recommend this book along with the other 3 in the series I have read. It is a clean and enjoyed read. I loved that I could be thrilled but the story and then turn around and recommend it to my 14 year old niece.
I was so excited about the character development in this book. I can't wait for get a hold of book 5 in the Shelby Nichols Adventures.
"Loved This Book!!!"
Awesome, Suspenseful, Creative
Yes! I had no idea how it would all turn out! I also loved learning more about Ramos! I honestly didn't want to stop listening to this book!
That's a tough one, but I'd have to go with the Big Poker Game.
Yes...but it's a spoiler alert! Ramos has a brother and he finds a way to help him without him knowing it was him. It was very touching!
I love this series! I loved reading these books and listening to them too! It's fun to have a narrator bring these books to life and Wendy does an excellent job! Way to go Colleen and Wendy!!!
"Doctor's Notes Review"
Once again we see Shelby back in her element and doing what she does best and I loved every minute of it. The narrator for this one makes Shelby come to life and I love what she does with her. She really gets all her quirks and makes her just what I had envisioned for her. This time around we catch Shelby relaxing on vacation and as she is finishing it up Uncle Joey asks for a favor. I think we all know by now that his favors are never anything little and soon Shelby finds herself in the middle of another mystery like always. I think I loved this book more than the previous books because we really got to see Shelby and Ramos work together. These two set off an adventure that can only be done as they know how.
I think as these books go on we see Shelby become a stronger character and she really learns how to make her gift work for her. I love seeing how creative she gets with hiding her abilities and making people question what she can do. This time around Ramos convinces Shelby to help him take down the guy who he thinks killed his brother but he soon learns more than he expected to know about that situation. I loved that this time around we got to learn who Ramos was and where he came from. This book really lets us see into his world and get to know him has a character and figure out what makes him tick. I loved seeing him tell Shelby more about what makes him Ramos in a nutshell. I know that nothing will come out of it but Shelby and Ramos really have some amazing chemistry and I would have loved to see them together as a couple but Shelby loves her hubby too much and Ramos respects that. I think that is another reason why I love Ramos for who he is. Shelby soon has to play a game of poker with the guy that Ramos is trying to take down and of course that is where the fun starts. It was so funny listening to Shelby try to figure out how to play the game and to outsmart her opponent at the same time.
Overall this was another great installment in this series and one that really let us learn more about Ramos as a person. You got to see where he came from and what he gave up to become who he is now. The narrator did a good job with his voice and making him sound completely different from the other characters. She does a great job of making all the characters have their own personalities and making them all unique and with their own quirks. I have fallen for these characters and can't wait to see where the author will take them next. I would highly recommend this one to others especially those that love a good mystery read.
"Colleen Helme's Books Rate Five Stars With Me."
Colleen Helme's books are so fresh and exciting. She's the best author I've read for a long time. And Wendy Tremont King is totally the right 'voice' for Shelby, (And Uncle Joey, Ramos and Dimples).
Dearly love Uncle Joey and Ramos, something I already did before I got the audio books. Now, Wow! How exciting to be able to picture these characters in my mind as the action unfolds..Colleen writes so vividly that I am right there through all Shelby's escapades. Plus, the editing for these books is fantastic. Thanks a bunch to whoever deserves that praise. I had begun to expect to have to get past grammatical errors in every book I bought whether paperback or ebook anymore.
To Colleen and the people who have helped make these books a reality ...Thank You!
Indeed it did.
These characters are written so well. And the action is vivid but not overdone in any way.
Of course it's Shelby.... but Uncle Joey is by far the topping on the cake for me!
Then there's Ramos' 'Hey Babe'.
I simply can't choose ONE favorite.
Yes, and I have done that with a couple of them.... 'Secrets that Kill' was one.
No part of any of these books caused me to want to fast forward.
Wendy King's voice is always right on point with character and action.
I am sharing with everyone I know who reads ebooks and might be interested in getting Audible.com... that starting with Colleen Helme will surely be a fun read.
My name is Kira and I work as a librarian in utah. I love all kinds of books, but especially like fantasy and mystery.
"Funny mystery worth the read"
When Uncle Joey asks Shelby to deliver a letter for him while she's down in Orlando on a family vacation, she finds herself regretting putting it off until the last minute. When she tries to deliver the letter to Warren Peace, the informant, she winds up almost getting killed. After Warren gets killed with a meat cleaver by a man with snake bite tattoos, Shelby acquires the notice of the local cop and has to call Ramos in to save her butt. Unfortunately for her (or maybe fortunately), Ramo turns out to have grown up in Orlando and has a dark past that somehow involves the local detective who noticed Shelby. To make matters worse, Florida Kingpin, Carter is after the flash drive that Warren was supposed to hand over to Shelby and this mafia boss owes a lot of money to Uncle Joey and will do anything to not have to pay it. Desperate enough to kill any witnesses and with a grudge against Ramos, Carter is a deadly force to be reckoned with. Can Ramos and Shelby solve this little problem of hers and Uncle Joey's without getting killed?
Although Shelby is a bit naive at times, the characters are all continually growing and are becoming more entertaining with each book. Narrator, Wendy Tremont King does a great job keeping the story moving. Her voice is appealing and does a great job distinguishing the different characters and the internal/external dialogue. Her narrative style is unique and ideal for Colleen Helme's book. Those who have read the other books in the series and who enjoy mysteries, adventure, and a bit of paranormal mixed in will enjoy listening to this book.


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Battlefield 3: Close Quarters PC
- Publisher: Electronic Arts
- Release Date: Jun 26, 2012
- Also On: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
User Score
Mixed or average reviews- based on 122 Ratings
User score distribution:
Positive: 74 out of 122
Mixed: 23 out of 122
Negative: 25 out of 122
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Nov 13, 2012
Jun 19, 2012
Jun 19, 2012I mistakingly forgot to enter my score for my review. Don't worry though it is definitely not a "0".....LOL I give this 9 out of 10 just because nothing is perfect though this game is about as near perfect as I have seen to date in a shooter. Kudos to Dice for not just going the money grab route and actually giving us some real substance.
Jun 19, 2012
Jun 14, 2012
Jun 12, 2012Fantastic DLC for an already amazing game. The new maps are gorgeous, the new modes are very fun, and the tight, mostly indoors map provide some variety to Battlefield 3. Well worth buying on its own or as part of the Premium package.
Jun 13, 2012
Jun 16, 2012
Jun 26, 2012
Jun 27, 2012
Jun 29, 2012
Jun 6, 2012Epic! Good added value. Incredible inhouse fights, great entertainment. Faster access to servers is also very much appreciated. PLatoon ranking i am still missing but overall i am happy. USD 50 is not cheap but acceptable. Looking forward for the next DLCs to come........
Jun 13, 2012
Jun 29, 2012even tho its kinda lame to even sell 4 maps for 10ish euros i think maps overally arent that bad and weapons are good...but still if i want some hardcore close quarter i play deathmatch on canals or kha. island .. but overally the whole pay for each new rock we add system is kinda lame.. why dont they add monthly subscription if they are that lame ;D
Jun 12, 2012I already tried to think positive about this DLC and completely ignored the dubstep music in the trailers, but I should have listened to my gut and follow my intuitions. See for yourself if these few maps and assignments will make you entertain you for a while. They certainly didn't entertain me. Bottom line: Skip this DLC, wait for quality.
Jun 17, 2012
Jun 27, 2012Absolutely love this new DLC I'm a huge metro fan and this DLC with the extra destruction and small maps I'm racking up over 100 kills a game on Ziba tower and I love the graphics, the guns, and the new game modes.. It's just awesome!
Jul 7, 2012
Sep 4, 2012Any way I look at it, I can't help but notice how EA/Dice cheaped out on this one. I mean TDM on the other maps is just as good or better if you do need 64 player close quarters carnage. It looks like they would have only put half as much effort into these small maps than the big ones. so they should only cost half as much. Unless you like Call of Duty. Yes I had to mention it :?
Jul 3, 2012The Battlefield 3 Close Quarters DLC is a must have for all Battlefield fans. I love the way they amped up the graphics and destruction. This DLC is just breathtaking and to me is even better than the multiplayer experience of the B2K DLC.
Jul 25, 2012
Jul 16, 2012
Sep 20, 2014It's a decent expansion pack, the maps are good and the game modes are decent (they could have been more and better though). If you want the exact opposite experience of a Battlefield game then you should try it.
Aug 31, 2012This is a new gaming experience in BF3, this add-on completely changes the pace of the game, it is faster, more intense and suddenly he gave a new interest in the game for some who are too static, else find less interesting with this rhythm game there.
Sep 7, 2012
Dec 18, 2012EA and DICE are called "пидорасы" at Russia after release of BF3 and it's model of distribution that means that they are betrayers. A lot of people excepted for a tactics-main thing that made BF important for our hearts. But now when you buying a BF3 (and especially Close Quarters) it means "Welcome to Call of Duty".
Jun 28, 2013Altrough small and tight maps more like CoD maps and do not match to Battlefield, the DLC is pleasent. Is a nice change the gameplay, the game is much more dynamic. The perfect addition for the people who like quick and short infantry battle.
Apr 1, 2013
Pelit (Finland)Oct 13, 2012Battlefield goes Call of Duty and does it actually pretty well! [Aug 2012]
PC GamerAug 8, 2012It's worth buying if you're sick of getting shot by premium players' overpowered new weapons on regular servers and want to equip the new arsenal yourself, but Battlefield 3's hectic fighting fails at CoD's smaller scale. [Oct 2012, p.71]
CD-ActionJul 6, 2012If you love with Battlefield's team deathmatch mode, you must get this DLC. [August 2012, p.76]


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6/02/2007 6:23pm, #21--
Send me an abstract. If it looks good, we might have a spot for it. I can't promise anything, of course.
6/02/2007 7:42pm, #22
- Join Date
- Aug 2006
- Location
- Sheffield, England
- Posts
- 1,661
- Style
- Student Jutsu
--Wish I'd had spotted this before the deadline, don't have a philosphy qualification but I probably could have turned in something decent on Lacanian root of martial arts perception in the media.
Nevermind."Listen to Iscariot you Vicchysoise ninja-fuckers!" - kohadril
"Are you going to rise to godhood out of the ashes of Earth? " - frumpleswift
"I'll pray for you Iscariot." - Mas
"Iscariot, check your pulse and report back. We need to know if you are in fact, not alive." - Lu Tzu
"Iscariot is victorious!" - Dai Tenshi
"More God delusions." - DAYoung
"Iscariot, despite our obvious doctrinal differences, I salute your exquisite bastardry, and take back half of all the bad things I ever said about you." - Zendetta
6/02/2007 9:08pm, #23--Originally Posted by Iscariot


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Jepson Flora Project: Jepson Interchange |
previous taxon |
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Jepson Interchange (more information) |
©Copyright 1993 by the Regents of the University of California
Annual, perennial herb, shrub, vine
Leaves simple or compound, cauline (or most in basal rosette), alternate or opposite; stipules 0
Inflorescence: cymes, heads, or flowers solitary
Flower: calyx generally 5-ribbed, ribs often connected by translucent membranes that are generally torn by growing fruit; corolla generally 5-lobed, radial or bilateral, salverform to bell-shaped, throat often well defined; stamens generally 5, epipetalous, attached at same or different levels, filaments of same or different lengths, pollen white, yellow, blue, or red; ovary superior, chambers generally 3, style 1, stigmas generally 3
Fruit: capsule
Seeds 1many, gelatinous or not when wet
Genera in family: 19 genera, 320 species: Am, n Eur, n Asia; some cultivated (Cantua, Cobaea (cup-and-saucer vine), Collomia, Gilia, Ipomopsis, Linanthus, Phlox )
Recent taxonomic note: *See also revised taxonomy of Porter and Johnson 2000 Aliso 19(1):5591; Porter 1998 Aliso 17:8385
Annual, perennial herb
Stem generally erect, generally branched from base
Leaves cauline, opposite, entire or palmately 39-lobed; lobes linear to narrowly lanceolate or spoon-shaped
Inflorescence head-like, open, or flower solitary; bracts leaf-like; flowers sessile or pedicelled
Flower: calyx tubular, or lobes nearly free, bordered by translucent membrane; corolla funnel-shaped, salverform, or bell-shaped; stamens attached at same level, pollen yellow
Species in genus: 41 species: w North America, Chile
Etymology: (Greek: flax flower)
Reference: [Patterson 1977 Madroño 24:3648]
Native |
Perennial, hairy
Stems many, 1020 cm
Leaf: lobes generally 5, linear
Inflorescence: cluster, terminal, bracted; flowers generally sessile
Flower: calyx 89 mm, membrane generally obscure, 1/2 calyx length; corolla funnel-shaped, tube included in calyx, white or light yellow, throat yellow, lobes 45 mm, white; stamens included or slightly exserted; stigmas slightly exserted
Ecology: Dry flats, openings in forest, sometimes on serpentine
Elevation: 5003500 m.
Bioregional distribution: Klamath Ranges, Outer North Coast Ranges, High North Coast Ranges, High Cascade Range, Warner Mountains, East of Sierra Nevada
Distribution outside California: to British Columbia, Rocky Mtns, n Mexico
Generally self-pollinated
Recent taxonomic note: *Leptosiphon nuttallii (A. Gray) J.M. Porter & L.A. Johnson
Native |
Leaf: lobes 510 mm, densely hairy
Chromosomes: 2n=18
Ecology: Dry flats, openings in forests
Elevation: 28003500 m.
Bioregional distribution: East of Sierra Nevada
Distribution outside California: to Nevada
Recent taxonomic note: *Leptosiphon nuttallii (A. Gray) J.M. Porter & L.A. Johnson subsp. pubescens (R. Patt.) J.M. Porter & L.A. Johnson


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World Compression Challenge 2016 WCC is a file compression benchmark. It is a reference for the latest information about the performance of lossless data compression software. The test takes place on many file types so as not to benefit a specific compressor and to verify the actual ability to adapt to any type of data. Test By Nania Francesco A. (Italy) APPLICATION1 APPLICATION2 APPLICATION3 APPLICATION4 APPLICATION5 AUDIO GAME1 GAME2 GAME3 GAME4 GAME5 IMAGES(BMP,PPM,PGM,TIFF) ISO IMAGE RAW IMAGES TEXT APPLICATION3 |
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Write Out Loud presents Read-Imagine-Create finalists
Wide-open choices free students from narrow responses.
Jeff Smith 3 p.m., March 27
Life coach and Hay House self-improvement author Christina Rasmussen hosts a night of self-exploration, soul-searching, and life lessons as she discusses her first book, Second Firsts: Live, Laugh and Love Again. Rasmussen will share skills and tools on how to leave the past behind and launch into a beautiful new life. A book signing will follow the discussion.
835 W. Harbor Drive, San Diego, 92101
Get directions
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Jedi Knights Course Offered By Queen's University Belfast 180
Starting in November, Queen's University Belfast will offer a course that will use the psychology of the Star Wars Jedi Knights to teach students communication skills and personal development. The university's publicity material reads 'the course "Feel the Force: How to Train in the Jedi Way" teaches the "real-life psychological techniques behind Jedi mind tricks"' and promises to explore 'wider issues behind the Star Wars universe, like balance, destiny, dualism, fatherhood and fascism.' The course is very affordable but the droid fees are outrageous.


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Graduate and Speech/Theatre Major Dies
On Saturday, February 18, Gloria Lowery Tyrrell, a York College graduate and former Speech Communication/Theatre Arts major passes away.
More York Students Helping In Africa
Therry Jean-Louis and Cassiany Alexandre have a lot in common. Both are Clinical Laboratory Science majors, both grew up in Haiti and will graduate from York next spring; but equally important, both are budding humanitarians.
Research Experiences for Undergraduates
Jasmine Osorio travelled to the Mathematical Science Research Institute at the University of California Berkeley for a summer research experiences during the summer of 2011 the topic was Mathematical Finance.
York College/CUNY Celebrates Friendship With American Airlines
The relationship between York College and its American Airlines neighbor at John F. Kennedy (JFK) Airport continues to grow and indeed, to flourish.
Excluded Minor Results in Matroids
Excluded Minor Results in Matroids talk by Dr. Sandra Kingan, Mathematics Department, Brooklyn College on Monday, November 14, 2011; 11am-12pm (lunch to follow)
York College Alum Now President of BCC
Dr. Carole Berotte Joseph, a member of the York College Class of 1971, launched academic year 2010-2011 as president of Bronx Community College (BCC) following her appointment by the CUNY Board of Trustees earlier this year.
York Fetes Former President Bassin at 45th Anniversary
It was an event 45 years in the making and worth every year of the wait. York College used the occasion of its 45th birthday to honor its longest serving president, Dr. Milton Bassin, who retired 20 years ago after 20 years of service to the college.
Community Health Major Enjoys Volunteering Trip to Costa Rica
Anthony Castro wanted an adventure that would add meaning to his life and he recently found it in the Central American nation of Costa Rica, as a volunteer in a childcare center.
Trip to the One Theater Festival
On November 19, 2011 the York College Tensor Scholars Program sponsored a trip to the All for One Theater Festival, to see Truth Values: One Girl's Romp Through M.I.T.'s Male Math Maze
York Joins American Airlines' 'Pink' Initiative
Breast Cancer Awareness Month has been a busy one for students in the CUNY Aviation Institute at York College as individual students and members of the Women in Aviation Club, lent their support to breast cancer awareness.
Cops and Robbers on a Cube
Cops and Robber on a cube talk by Dr. Kerry O' Jakian, Mathematics Department, Queens College on Friday, October 21, 2011; 3pm-4pm (dinner to follow)
York College Production Wows at Fringe Festival
After wowing audiences in Queens, the York College theatre production, Istwa! received rave reviews at the 15th annual New York International Fringe Festival.
Chemistry Major Fights Blindness In Ghana
As a prolific undergraduate researcher at York College/CUNY, Daryl Ramai had studied two therapeutic drugs/molecules among various other areas in biochemistry.
York's Student Development Gets New VP
Following an extensive national search, Dr. Marcia V. Keizs, president of York College/CUNY is pleased to welcome Dr. Geneva M. Walker-Johnson as Vice President for Student Development.
Professor Samuel Hux Designated Convocation Professor
On Thursday, September 15th York College will formally open the 2011-2012 Academic Year with the annual Fall Convocation, which will be held in the large performance space of the Performing Arts Center.
York College Alumnus Wins Fulbright
A York College alumnus was recently announced as winner of a Fulbright Fellowship for fall 2011.
College Now Celebrates Summer Graduation
The York College Atrium was jumping with the sounds of the York College Summer Jazz Program (SJP), there was a Tuskegee Airman on hand and high school students were ready to receive their certificates. Welcome to College Now graduation 2011.
Cardinal Crew Rules With Help Of Retreat
For the second year in a row the York College Cardinal Crew, a large group of students who promote school spirit and leadership skills, went on retreat.
New Dean For School Of Health And Behavioral Sciences
York College/CUNY will launch the 2011-2012 academic year with a permanent dean for its School of Health and Behavioral Sciences.
Twin Graduates From York Now Prepping For Med School
Among the 900 graduates at York College's recent commencement were two soft-spoken, under-the-radar sisters who both majored in Biology with plans for medical school.


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Dental Anesthesia |
Dental anesthesia08/21/2008 |
i had an extraction over 36 hours ago is it normal to still not have any feeling in my lips, cheek and lower face. im still very numb n also have pins and needle
This is not the usual occurrence but can happen. You should contact your dentist as this can occur with either the surgery or from the local anesthesia. The "pins and needles" sensation is actually a good thing and means the nerve is recovering. Still, you should contact your dentist who can advise you more appropriately.
Steven I Ganzberg, SB, DMD, MS Formerly, Clinical Professor of Dentistry College of Dentistry The Ohio State University |


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They've got muck; we've got rakes. TPM Muckraker
Former Civil Rights Division Lawyer: TN Mosque Attack Looks Like A Hate Crime
Federal authorities, including the Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Bureau and the FBI, have said that there's "no indication" that the fire -- set early Saturday morning to pieces of construction equipment at the site of the proposed Islamic center and mosque -- is a hate crime.
Yeomans doesn't think that position will last.
"Something like this, where we have a nationwide atmosphere" of anti-Muslim sentiment, he said, "I don't think it'll take whole lot of evidence to get them to open this as a hate crime."
Yeomans said the fire "seems pretty clearly" to fall under a church arson statute passed in the mid-1990s in response to a spate of church fires in the Southeast. The statute makes it a crime to deface "real religious property."
To elevate it to hate crime status, Yeomans said, the crime has to have been committed because of someone's race, religion and ethnicity.
"I think it's religious real property, in terms of the statute. And it seems to be, potentially at least, that the vandalism and the arson has been committed because of religious character. And that's enough to establish a hate crime," he said.
During the church arsons of the 1990s, many of which were aimed at black congregations, the DOJ formed a task force to investigate. Some were found to be racially motivated; others weren't, Yeomans said. Then, after Sept. 11, 2001, Justice formed another task force to combat anti-Muslim violence, and both the attorney general and the president spoke out against such violence.
"They did a very good job about that," Yeomans said. "A similar effort now would make a lot of sense, because we're obviously in a period of heightened tensions. ... I think it's very important for the department to get out there and make it clear that hate crimes against Muslims won't be tolerated."
The DOJ has not announced any plans for a task force or other response to what appears to be an increase in anti-Muslim sentiment over the summer. That increase includes the knife attack on a Muslim cab driver in New York City and a Florida church's plans to burn Korans on Sept. 11.
The department did, however, meet with faith groups yesterday to discuss some of the troubling rhetoric.
"Our concern is that we believe that there needs to be more attention, more resources put into investigating and prosecuting these cases as well as a higher level of attention to whatever efforts the department may be undertaking as well," Farhana Khera, president of Muslim Advocates, told ABC News.
She said her group wants the DOJ to "send a message that hate and criminal activity and attacks on houses of worship is un-American."
The Interfaith Alliance and the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism also took part, and called the conversation "heartening."
But the DOJ has yet to speak about the meeting, or the violence. The department has not returned TPMmuckraker's requests for comment.


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The Gigaset SL910A Cordless Phone with Answering Machine boasts a stunning design and the latest technology for easy calling. Convenient communications The stylish cordless phone has a large touchscreen display and an integrated answering machine. Making it easier than ever to receive and organise messages, the phone has up to 55 minutes of recording time and you can record your conversation so you dont need that pen and paper for notes. Simple touch screen telephoning The user-friendly cordless phone has all the features you could possible want in a home phone. Its no effort at all to work your way around the different features thanks to the large coloured display. The large touchscreen makes it easy for you to view your contacts, calendar or listen to your messages. You can even upload and save different pictures on caller ID. The stylish black Gigaset SL910A Cordless Phone with Answering Machine is bolstered with plenty of fun and convenient features that make for a great telecommunications experience.
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The Oriental Beauty Oolong, also known as Bai Hao Oolong, is a highly oxidize Taiwanese oolong tea. This oolong with the appearance of a black tea has a floral toasty aroma and a sweet fruity muscatel taste. British tea merchant presented this tea to Queen Elizabeth II in the early 20th century. The Queen was delighted by the taste and aroma by this tea and named it as Oriental Beauty. This Formosa Bai Hao Oolong is cherished by oolong drinkers around the world.
Related links: Click here for tea brewing instructions. Try our Chinese Tea Sampler. A Great Value! Try our Value Oolong Tea Sampler. A Great Value!
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Things to Do / Arts and Crafts
Region: Beaches & Artisans
Sattler Stained Glass Studio is your fabrication and restoration studio of stained glass with over 40 years of experience.
With traditional and contemporary designs there are limitless possibilities to express your personal style for your home.
We provide professional consultation services for churches and other heritage buildings for their restoration and new window design needs.
Phone 902- 688 -1156
Send Email Visit Website
Advent Art is the art of Paul Kelley, a Nova Scotian artist who has lived on the South Shore for most of his life. His figurative artwork is a celebration of the female form and commanding presence in our world; and Paul's landscape / seascape art extols the beauty that surrounds us along our Nova Scotian coast.
Advent Art is not a "store front" gallery, but interested patrons are welcome to contact Paul directly to make appropriate arrangements.
Merydie Fjarlie is a Canadian artist working in the specialized medium of Metal Threads. Provocative and dramatic, her symbolic messages in this unique embroidery form have developed both from her desire to stay grounded in her everyday life and a passion to soar among a myriad of themes and issues that pique her interest and evoke corresponding and introspective responses in her audiences. Merydie applies a confident technical hand to create a remarkable art form from this beautiful ancient craft.
Learn moreU-Pick Options*
-High Bush Blueberries (limited amounts)
*In season (varies depending on berry)
Come enjoy the experience of picking your own farm fresh berries right off the vine!
Indian Garden Farms U-picks take place while berries are in season and offer our customers the chance to get right into the action of harvesting their own fresh produce.
Learn moreThe First Capital of all of New France from 1632 - 1636.
Before beginning your walk on beautiful Fort Point, imagine that today's date is May 8, 1604. Look southwest across Dublin Bay toward the Atlantic Ocean. Beyond the islands you may see the good ship Le Don de Dieu as it drops anchor for the first time in the New World. Samuel de Champlain, the man who would change Europe's understanding of this vast continent, stands on the foredeck sketching the first of his famous maps. Do you see him waving to you?
Learn moreConnecting the LaHave Islands to the mainland this beach streches out from the shore to Georges Island and provides a popular beach destination for tourists throughout the summer.
Directions to Crescent Beach are very Scenic. Follow King Street south out of the Beautiful town of Bridgewater. This street is also Route 331, part of the Lighthouse Route. About 20 minutes from the town is Crescent Beach. You will be following the lovely LaHave River to the ocean and seeing lots of artisans and the LaHave Bakery where you can stop for lunch or a coffee and a snack.
Learn moreFrench colonists planted the first vine in this area in the early 1600's. In 1994, Petite Riviere Vinyards revived the tradition. Wines from Canada's oldest winegrowing region are now available at the winery, and at select retaurants in the area.
PETITE RIVIERE VINEYARDS uses only grapes from the LaHave River Valley. Our poor rocky soil and long, mild growing season provide an ideal terroir for quality wines. The wines bear the name of this unique region, "Côtes de LaHave".
Bradford Naugler, well known as a folk artist, is famous for his peacocks, roosters, seagulls, small & large bears, figures, and paintings wit hred and black checkered frames. Turn east on to Hirtle Rd, off Hwy 103 at Exit 16. Sixth house on the left #117. Open Daily. Call anytime. Everyone is welcomed!!
Learn moreGuided sea-kayak adventures and yoga in the renowned LaHave Islands Archipelago on Nova Scotia's South Shore. Paddle among the islands and experience pristine beaches, coastal wildlife, and signature Maritime fishing settlements. Multi-day, Full-day, and half-day tours. Located on Dublin Shore off of the Lighthouse Route (Hwy 331) between the LaHave Bakery and Crescent Beach at 90 Bells Cove Road, Dublin Shore, NS.
Cell Phone (902) 298-2628
Learn moreLocals know this beach is a stunner.
Cherry Hill's appeal is largely elemental: It offers a direct route to happiness via its empty curve of fine grey sand, exposed water and endless sky.
Wonderful Beach for Surfers or a nice place to walk on the rocks and enjoy an afternoon.
This beach is located off the 331 highway in the community of Cherry Hill. Easy to find off highway 103 turn down Exit 16 or follow the 331 highway from the beautiful town of Bridgewater (King Street south)
Original watercolours and matted reproductions by Dennis Curran, specializing in Nova Scotia coastal scenes.
Custom framing in rustic wood.
By appointment only, please - (902) 523-3974, Cash or Cheque
Earl's handcrafted rustic chairs, tables, benches, and garden items fashioned from wood and Mary's realistic paintings are displayed in a new boathouse on the shore of Bell Island. Follow the fish sign at 21 Tumblin Road Bell Island near the LaHave Island Marine Museum.
Learn moreDay use park with fresh water swimming, kayaking, canoeing. Small beach for having a picnic or relaxing on a beautiful day. Lots of parking, near many shops and restaurants in Bridgewater.
Learn moreHand hooked and wet felted pieces for your home crochet pieces mounted on driftwood
Learn moreCome out to Lahave to enjoy an indoor skate bowl. Skateboards and clothes are sold here. Located above the Lahave Bakery just a short drive from Bridgewater on Highway 331 along the beautiful LaHave River!
Learn moreA commissioned portrait is a timeless heirloom. It can capture the fleeting innocence of youth, celebrate the depth of a special relationship or acknowledge a person, whether in a family context or in business.
• Family • Business • Anniversary • Weddings
James is an elected member of The Portrait Society of Canada (Top Finalist, 2014 National Competition "The Miracle of the Portrait"), The Portrait Society of America, The Canadian Society of Artists and Oil Painters of America. His work also includes landscape, figure and still life. The studio/gallery is located on the Lighthouse Route near the LaHave Bakery and the Fort Point Museum.
We also offer workshops. Why not escape and go outside for some plein air painting on the beautiful south shore of Nova Scotia. Our workshops offer a good balance between friendly interchange and education. We also offer indoor studio workshops/classes in painting or drawing.
Learn more
4863 Hwy 331 Crescent Beach
Open: May Holiday Weekend to Labour Day
Thursday through Sunday, 10am-5pm. Chance/Appt.
Specialties: NS hooked mats, NS furniture and smalls, pre-Victorian porcelain and smalls
Learn moreFeatures pine country furniture, gifts, art, persian carpets and unusual furnishings.
Open Spring to Fall Sat & Sun only 12 - 5. In season, Sat and Sun 12 - 5. Also by chance or app't.
Learn morePhotographic fine art inspired by our maritime heritage with its wild coastal scenery and changeable weather. Available as numbered-edition prints, individually created using 100% archival materials. Showcased in a charming seaside studio in Dublin Shore overlooking the scenic LaHave coast. Visit the gallery and meet award-winning photographer Kas Stone. You can watch an AV show, join a photo workshop, or just drop by for a chat and a cup of tea.
May to October: open most days 10-5, some evenings; hours vary around workshops.
Off-Season: by appointment or chance.
Welcome to the LaHave Islands Marine Museum Website.
The LaHave Islands Marine Museum is a museum with artifacts and information on the history of the in-shore fisheries and life on the LaHave Islands in Nova Scotia, Canada. Through this website, you can learn about the LaHave Islands and the surrounding area. You can also see photographs of some of the artifacts we have on display at the museum.
In the past, the LaHave Islands was a small fishing community about 30 kilometers from Bridgewater, Nova Scotia. It relied on fishing, both in-shore and off-shore, for its prosperity and it was hard to find someone who wasn't involved in the fishing industry in their day to day lives.
Today, the fishing industry has died down and most of the homes on the islands are used as cottages by summer vacationers.
The LaHave Islands Marine Museum seeks to preserve the memories and artifacts of the past and put them on display for all to see and remember. We are open daily from 10 am to 5 pm in the summer from June 1st to September 1. Admission is free, but donations are welcome. The museum can also be opened outside of these times by appointment.
Whether you want to swim, search for sea shells, or just spend the day relaxing in the sun, Rissers Beach Provincial Park offers every kind of recreational opportunity available at the seaside.
Some of the features of the park include a kilometre long white sand beach and Interpretation Centre and boardwalk along an inland marsh.
Directions to Risser's Beach are scenic. From the Town of Bridgewater follow King Street South which is Route 331 for 25 minutes. You will be following the beautiful LaHave River the whole way. There are many artisans and the LaHave Bakery to stop and visit. Enjoy!
Learn moreLocal Rug Hooking and supplies located in Petite Riviere on the river. Jane Steele also teaches classes. She Invites professional rug hookers to demonstrate at her shop. Look for her events on this Festivals and Events page.
Learn moreIn the heart of Mill Village on the banks of the Medway River at the end of 331, this quaint old-fashion Store is much more than you'd think. Leaning towards local green products with Free Range Meats and other items in the general merchandise category, it caters to the discerning in taste. Our Cafe is one that surpasses expectation with food and atmosphere. It's one heck of a good place to eat while watching the river drift by. Afterwards, visit our gift shop and pick up gifts created by local artisans, as well as things from around the world.
Learn moreSattler Stained Glass Studio is your fabrication and restoration studio of stained glass with over 40 years of experience.
With traditional and contemporary designs there are limitless possibilities to express your personal style for your home.
We provide professional consultation services for churches and other heritage buildings for their restoration and new window design needs.
Learn more
Village Nursery has been a destination point along the beautiful LaHave River for 36 years
We are situated just off Rte 331s in Pleasantville, watch for the bright yellow signs with our Dazee logo
We open to the public in April from 8:00-5:00 with extended hours during May & June
We carry a full range of potted & bedding plants with gorgeous hanging baskets & ready to go patio containers
Village Nursery is the "GO TO" Nursery for all your spring & summer gardening needs
Stop into Village Nursery & pick up one of our VIP FREE club member cards
Hey EVERYONE !! We now have a "VIP CLUB"
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NURSERY to 75309 using your cell phone
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Westcote Bell Pottery was established in 1983 in a small rural village south of London, England. Co-founders Vaughan Smith and Jacqueline M. Cohen are a husband and wife team. After 27 years exhibiting at shows in the United States and running a gallery in upstate New York, they decided to move to LaHave where Jackie has relatives. The studio and two showrooms are located in a 150 year old boat house that sits on the LaHave estuary. The building sits above the water on large pilings, creating a boat like feeling as you hear the waves crashing under the building. Beautifully situated, looking across the bay to Riverport, the studio welcomes visitors with daily demonstrations in various pottery techniques. The artwork and pottery displayed is all made on the premises and original pieces are available for purchase in all price ranges. Featuring whimsical landscapes and animal imagery, functional dinnerware, wash basins and tile, water colours, prints, books and note cards. Both are award winning artists with over 35 years experience. After visiting the pottery, why not enjoy lunch at the LaHave bakery before you take the LaHave cable ferry across the bay.
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Zwicker Woodworking Ltd. in Upper LaHave, Nova Scotia was founded in the 1980's and is, since early 2003, a family owned company run by René and Esther Haltner.
Zwicker Woodworking Ltd. is producing and marketing quality made outdoor furniture in solid Pine and Western Red Cedar wood.
It is the home of the original Zwicker Adirondack chair, designed by Richard Zwicker.
Learn moreFrom our authentic turn-of-the century shop, choose from a wide variety of breads, rolls, cakes and cookies, made only with traditional ingredients.
Learn moreThe Blarney Stone Restaurant is a small family owned establishment featuring local seafood and hearty meals. We are located on Highway 103 just west of Exit 14 at Hebb's Cross. From our famous seafood chowder to our clams and fries our extensive menu has something to offer everyone.
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MacLeod's Canteen, seating 35, known for homemade chowders, soups, sandwiches, local fish, clams, etc
Learn morePizza Delight is the place for pizzas, oven-baked pasta, donairs, panzerottis, and fresh salads too. Dine in or take out.
Learn moreIs the sun out? Then it's a perfect day to relax on the licensed patio of the River Pub, directly on the LaHave River. All the pub classics are on the menu, as well as a bar well-stocked with domestic and international beers. Take out is available if you'd like to take your fish and chips with you.
Learn moreJoin us for an amazing carefree vacation in South West Nova Scotia. Our spacious motel rooms and waterfront rentals are only minutes from the legendary white sand beaches; quaint fishing villages; world class restaurants and artisans, and historic towns that dot Nova Scotia's picturesque Lighthouse Route.
Open from May through October, our established motel is a brief 10 minute drive from the town of Bridgewater, the hub of the South Shore of Nova Scotia. Here on the banks of the beautiful LaHave River, visitors can relax and absorb all the splendor, solitude and excitement the region has to offer.
Learn more60 total RV sites, can accommodate RV's up to 45ft, full hookups, 20/30-amp service, WiFi, Restrooms with hot showers, laundromat, picnic tables, fire pits, public telephones, game room with pool table, canteen, ice, wood, mail service, swimming pool, playground, tenting sites, horseshoe pit, basketball area, mini-golf, theme weekends, and hiking trails. Located eight miles from Lunenburg and one mile from Bridgewater.
Learn moreDear Campers!
We would love to see you and the family come to Little Lake Campground for one of your summer camping trips!
Our Weekends are always full of fun with many activites. We have dances with Local talent, bands and a DJ every second weekend. We dance and sing from 8:30 pm until 12:00 am. We also have magic shows, fireworks and many special theme weekends like Christmas in July, Halloween, Pot luck meals, yummy Breakfast meals etc. A men's Talent show (now thats a must to see) Don't miss out on the good times, for young and old.
Little Lake has an outdoor swimming pool with a shallow end and a deep end. We have a canteen where bundles of wood for your own campfire can also be purchased; lots of candy and kool aid slushies. and also other small grocery items.We have a Landry room as well as toilets & showers. We have a playground for kids, where Basketball and Badminton can also be played. We have a games room with a pool table and a Jubebox.
Little Lake is a Tenting,and RV park we will take any shape and size of a tralier! Hope to see you at our campground.
Learn moreThe Petite Villa Guest Cottage is spacious and luxurious, exquisitely furnished and decorated. Petite Villa has hardwood floors, a fully equipped kitchen and bath, private patio and lawn, soaring cathedral ceiling, magnificent floor-to-ceiling fireplace; and with two bedrooms and a pull-out sofa bed in the living room, can sleep six comfortably.
The luxury and charm of the Petite Villa make it particularly suitable for romantic honeymoon or anniversary celebrations, yet it's great for families as well. There's a large lawn with croquet & badminton sets for your use and enjoyment, and we offer bicycles and a canoe for exploring the region up close.
MacLeod Cottages and Canteen Limited offers 23 housekeeping cottages on the shores of Green Bay, Lunenburg County, Nova Scotia, Canada.
The cottages range in size from two to four bedrooms and most are separated from its neighbour by more than 25 meters. Each has an equipped kitchen; living room with a brick or Franklyn type fireplace or airtight stove; and 3pc bathroom with shower.
The immediate area offers:
-MacLeod's Canteen, seating 35, known for homemade chowders, soups, sandwiches, local fish, clams, etc.
-sandy beaches, Risser's Beach Provincial park
-supervised and non supervised salt water swimming
- non supervised river delta swimming
- antique stores, boat building, glass and leather crafts, lobster pound
- deep sea fishing, boating, kayaking, wind surfing for expert or novice
- hiking, birding, sea shells, tidal pools, wild flowers
- deer and pheasants on the lawn, stars and moonlight never seen in the city
"Where guests are like family, & family is always welcome."
This Bridgewater, Nova Scotia hotel offers a personal touch. With modern, pet-friendly, non-smoking accommodations and just minutes from Bridgewater's town center and convenient access to some of Nova Scotia's most renowned cultural and scenic landmarks the BEST WESTERN PLUS Bridgewater Hotel & Convention Centre is the place to stay. Newly constructed in August 2010, this Bridgewater hotel offers convenient access to many local attractions, businesses and shopping. Whether traveling on business or pleasure, the BEST WESTERN PLUS Bridgewater Hotel & Convention Centre has it all!
Each beautifully appointed guest room at the BEST WESTERN PLUS Bridgewater Hotel & Convention Centre features modern decor, lush linens, refrigerator, in-room movies and high-speed Internet. During your stay you will also receive free parking and a freshly made hot buffet breakfast to ensure a great start to each day. Half of the guest rooms at this Bridgewater hotel offer beautiful views of the forested LaHave River Valley. Other hotel amenities include an indoor heated swimming pool with corkscrew waterslide, hot tub and exercise facility. This Bridgewater hotel also comes fully equipped with a 24-hour business center, meeting facilities that can accommodate up to 300 people and an on-site restaurant where guests will enjoy a variety of delicious dishes.
Guests staying at the BEST WESTERN PLUS Bridgewater Hotel & Convention Centre are a short drive from beautiful sand beaches, spectacular ocean vistas, historic towns and an endless variety of galleries and shops. Guests looking for a little more excitement can climb aboard a lobster boat, surf or kayak Nova Scotia's rugged shoreline and sail the Bluenose II when she is in port.
The hospitable staff at the BEST WESTERN PLUS Bridgewater Hotel & Convention Centre offers a superior guest experience in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia
Learn moreConveniently located in the heart of Bridgewater, the Main Street of the South Shore, and near the local industrial parks and hospital, guests of the Bridgewater Comfort Inn have easy access to all major destinations in the area including the Bridgewater Mall, Eastside Plaza, Bridgewater Curling Club, Wile Carding Mill Museum, DesBrisay Museum and Exhibition Centre and the South Shore Exhibition, better known as the Big Ex. Our modern amenities and friendly staff are the perfect combination for a vacation along the beautiful Lighthouse Route of Nova Scotia's south shore.
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Savory salad dressed up with kasha and veggies mixed with vinaigrette – a delicious side dish.
Always read labels to make sure each recipe ingredient is gluten free. Products and ingredient sources can change.
The color and crunch of the vegetables and the chewiness of the kasha create a salad that looks and tastes wonderful, perfect for family and friends.
Whole Grain Serving: 1/2


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Comprehensive Interoperability and SIP-Based Feature Set
Carrier-Grade Security, Provisioning, and Management
Figure 1. Cisco SPA504G 4-Line IP Phone
Telephony Features
� Four voice lines
� Four Independent SIP Registrations*
� Line status: active line indication, with name and number
� Menu-driven user interface
� Shared line appearance**
� Speakerphone
� Call hold
� Music on hold**
� Call waiting
� Caller ID name and number
� Outbound caller ID blocking
� Call transfer: attended and blind
� Three-way call conferencing with local mixing
� Multiparty conferencing via external conference bridge
� Automatic redial of last calling and last called numbers
� On-hook dialing
� Call pickup: selective and group**
� Call park and unpark**
� Call swap
� Call back on busy
� Call blocking: anonymous and selective
� Call forwarding: unconditional, no answer, on busy
� Hot line and warm line automatic calling
� Call logs (60 entries each): made, answered, and missed calls
� Redial from call logs
� Personal directory with auto-dial (100 entries)
� Do not disturb
� Digits dialed with number auto-completion
� Anonymous caller blocking
� Uniform Resource Identifier (URI) (IP) dialing support (vanity numbers)
� On-hook default audio configuration (speakerphone and headset)
� Multiple ring tones with selectable ring tone per line
� Called number with directory name matching
� Ability to call number using name: directory matching or via caller ID
� Subsequent incoming calls show calling name and number
� Date and time with support for intelligent daylight savings
� Call start time stored in call logs
� Call timer
� Name and identity (text) displayed at startup
� Distinctive ringing based on calling and called number
� 10 user-downloadable ring tones
� Speed dialing, eight entries
� Configurable dial/numbering plan support
� Intercom**
� Group paging
� Network Address Translation (NAT) Traversal, including Simple Traversal of UDP Through NATs (STUN) support
� DNS SRV and multiple A records for proxy lookup and proxy redundancy
� Syslog, debug, report generation, and event logging
� Highly secure call encrypted voice communications support
� Built-in web server for administration and configuration with multiple security levels
� Automated remote provisioning, multiple methods; up to 256-bit encryption (HTTP, HTTPS, Trivial File Transfer Protocol [TFTP])
� Option to require administrator password to reset unit to factory defaults
Hardware Features
� Pixel-based display: 128 x 64 monochrome LCD graphical display with backlight
� Dedicated illuminated buttons for:
��Audio mute on/off
��Headset on/off
��Speakerphone on/off
� 4-way rocking directional knob for menu navigation
� Voicemail message waiting indicator (VMWI) light
� Voicemail message retrieval button
� Dedicated hold button
� Settings button for access to feature, setup, and configuration menus
� Volume control rocking up/down knob controls handset, headset, speaker, ringer
� Standard 12-button dialing pad
� High-quality handset and cradle
� Built-in high-quality microphone and speaker
� Headset jack: 2.5 mm
� LED test function
� Two Ethernet ports with integrated Ethernet switch: 10/100BASE-T RJ-45
� 802.3af-compliant PoE
� Optional 5 VDC universal (100-240V) switching; power supply is ordered separately (Cisco PA100)
Regulatory Compliance
� FCC (Part 15, Class B), CE Mark, A-Tick, C-Tick, Telepermit, UL, CB
� Security Features
� Password-protected system, preset to factory default
� Password-protected access to administrator and user-level features
� HTTPS with factory-installed client certificate
� HTTP digest: encrypted authentication via MD5 (RFC 1321)
� Up to 256-bit Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) encryption
� SIP over Transport Layer Security (TLS)
� Secure Real-Time Transport Protocol (SRTP)
� Quick-Start Installation and Configuration Guide
� User Guide
� Administration Guide
� Provisioning Guide (for service providers only)
Package Contents
� Cisco SPA504G 4-Line IP phone, handset, and stand
� Handset cord
� RJ-45 Ethernet cable
� Quick-Start Guide
Table 1. Specifications for the Cisco SPA504G 4-Line IP Phone
Note: Many features are programmable within a defined range or list of options. Please see the SPA Administration Guide for details. The target configuration profile is uploaded to the SPA 504 at the time of provisioning.
Data networking
Voice gateway
Provisioning, administration, and maintenance
Power supply
Physical interfaces
Indicator lights/LEDs
Body dimensions (W x H x D)
8.42 x 8.35. x 1.73 in. (214 x 212 x 44 mm)
Unit weight
2.00 lb ( 0.9kg)
Operating temperature
32º ~ 104ºF (0º ~ 40ºC)
Storage temperature
-4º ~ 158ºF (-20º ~ 70ºC)
Operating humidity
5% to 95% noncondensing
Storage humidity
Table 2. Cisco SPA500 Series IP Phone Comparison
Voice Lines
Ethernet Ports
High- Resolution Graphical Display
PoE Support
Table 3. Ordering Information
Part Number
Cisco SPA504G 4-Line IP Phone
3-year Cisco Small Business Support Service
How to order | Member Login | Member Register | FAQ | Contact Us


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Teenage prostitutes will be given resources to help them leave behind the abuse from their pimps, and names and photographs of those convicted of soliciting sex from prostitutes will be posted on a website, San Bernardino County District Attorney Michael Ramos said Thursday, Jan. 17.
Ramos announced those initiatives and more to combat human trafficking after he screened a documentary, âTeenage $ex 4 $ale: Human Trafficking in San Bernardino County,â to about 300 invited guests at the Krikorian Premiere Theatre in Redlands.
âTonight is a call to action,â Ramos said. âWe need to save our young girls, and sometimes boys. To be a civilized society, we need to take care of our children.â
The documentary included interviews with prostitutes who detailed the mental and physical abuse they suffer, interviews with law-enforcement officials trying to crack down on prostitution, video from undercover stings and even footage of pimps extolling their âbusinessâ outside an annual Academy Awards-style gala where one received the âPimp of the Yearâ Award.
The documentary was written and produced by Ramos' public affairs officer, Christopher Lee. Ramos said he plans to screen it for law-enforcement groups and local educators, who will learn how to spot signs that their students might be stuck in prostitution.
âWe hope to be better eyes and ears,â San Bernardino County Superintendent Gary Thomas said.
Anne-Michelle Ellis, coordinator of San Bernardino County Coalition Against Sexual Exploitation, said teens will be offered medical help and counseling. Ramos on Thursday proposed creating a Girls Court, where the emphasis will be on diversion, not punishment. Some girls become prostitutes as young as 11, the documentary said.
Ramos said the shift from treating teen prostitutes as victims and not as criminals is growing.
âThree or four years ago, we didn't think that way,â he said.
Ramos rejected the euphemism of âjohnsâ for the clients of prostitutes. âThey're perpetrators,â he said. Their names, photos and dates of birth will be posted on the district attorney's website.
âDeterrence is huge,â Ramos said. âThey're going to think twice.â
Follow Brian Rokos on Twitter: @Brian_Rokos and online at blog.pe.com/crime-blotter/


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I've been trying to potty train Joseph on and off for about 6 months now but either illness or a bout of accidents has meant it goes on hold. At 2 and a half Joseph is a good 8 months older than Imogen was when she was dry in the day but Joseph's lack of communication skills have made it difficult for him to tell me when he needs to use the potty. Now he's hit the two and a half mark and the weather is more favourable for drying I've decided to start all over again.
Over the next couple of weeks I'll be keeping you up to date with his progress along with some great potty training advice from experts, giveaways and reviews of some innovative products.
If you're potty training or have been there, done that and come out the other side I'd love to hear to any advice you have.


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In our last article, we introduced PPTP VPNs for interconnecting remote users and branch offices to a central network hub. Known as a hub-and-spoke VPN, the advantage of this design is it lets remote users participate as peers in an existing home office LAN. It's simple to set up and easy to maintain. The drawback is vulnerability to man-in-the-middle attacks.
Today, we want to turn our attention to the more traditional client-server VPN which still relies upon a central server but uses a star topology to connect remote nodes. The major difference is that only registered devices participate in the virtual private network so there is no direct access to other machines on the LANs of the registered devices. If you have servers scattered all over the countryside, this is an excellent way to manage and interconnect them. All data and communications between the nodes can then be routed through the encrypted VPN tunnel for rock-solid security.
With NeoRouter's free software, you can set up your VPN server using a PC, a Mac, a Linux or FreeBSD machine, OpenWrt Backfire, and Tomato. VPN clients are available for PCs, Macs, Linux and FreeBSD PCs, OpenWrt, Tomato as well as Android phones and tablets. There's even an HTML5 web application in addition to a Chrome browser plug-in. With the OpenWrt and Tomato devices or if you're an extreme techie, you can broaden your NeoRouter star configuration to include bridging of remote LANs. See pp. 47-50 of the NeoRouter User's Manual. And you can interconnect up to 256 devices at no cost. For $999, you can enlarge your VPN to support 1,000 devices. Screen sharing, remote desktop connections, HTTP, and SSH access all work transparently using private IP addresses of the VPN nodes which are automatically assigned to the 10.0.0.0 private network.
You may be wondering why we've moved on from Hamachi. Suffice it to say, LogMeIn has put the squeeze on the free version to the point that it's now next to worthless. In fact, you'd be hard-pressed to find any mention of a free version of Hamachi (other than a trial edition) on LogMeIn's current web site. Here's a feature comparison which says it better than we could.
Today we are introducing the first of two NeoRouter VPN solutions. First, we have a simple installation script that works with any PBX in a Flash 2™ server. See also our more recent column for the dedicated server edition of NeoRouter VPN known as VPN in a Flash. It's suitable for use on a dedicated server or running as a virtual machine. For smaller VPNs, we prefer the add-on module for PBX in a Flash. For larger deployments, you probably should opt for the dedicated machine. It also isolates your VPN server from your PBX which generally is the better network strategy. Regardless of the installation scenario you choose, keep in mind that neither option requires exposure of your entire server to the Internet. Only a single TCP port needs to be opened in your hardware-based firewall and IPtables Linux firewall.
NeoRouter Setup with PIAF2™. We're assuming you already have a PBX in a Flash 2 server set up behind a hardware-based firewall. If not, start there. Next, we'll need to download and run the installer for your new NeoRouter Server. It also installs the client. Just log into your server as root and issue the following commands:
wget http://incrediblepbx.com/install-neorouter
chmod +x install-neorouter
The installer will walk you through these five installation steps, but we'll repeat them here so you have a ready reference down the road.
First, on your hardware-based firewall, map TCP port 32976 to the private IP address of your PIAF2 server. This tells the router to send all NeoRouter VPN traffic to your PIAF2 server when it hits your firewall. If you forget this step, your NeoRouter VPN will never work!
Second, we're going to use your server's public IP address as the destination for incoming traffic to your NeoRouter VPN. If this is a dynamic IP address, you'll need an FQDN that's kept current by a service such as DynDNS.com.
Third, each administrator and user is going to need a username to access your NeoRouter VPN. You can use the same credentials to log in from multiple client machines, something you may or may not want to do. We're going to set up credentials for one administrator as part of the install. You can add extra ones by adding entries with one of the following commands using the keyword admin or user. Don't use any special characters in the username and password!
nrserver -adduser username password admin
nrserver -adduser username password user
Fourth, make up a very secure password to access your NeoRouter VPN. No special characters.
You're done. Review your entries very carefully. If all is well, press Enter. If you blink, you may miss the completion of the install process. It's that quick.
Fifth, after your NeoRouter VPN is installed, you can optionally go to the NeoRouter web site and register your new VPN by clicking Create Standalone Domain. Make up a name you can easily remember with no periods or spaces. You'll be prompted for the IP address of your server in the second screen. FQDNs are NOT permitted.
When a VPN client attempts to login to your server, the server address is always checked against this NeoRouter database first before any attempt is made to resolve an IP address or FQDN using DNS. If no matching entry is found, it will register directly to your server using a DNS lookup of the FQDN. Whether to register your VPN is totally up to you. Logins obviously occur quicker using this registered VPN name, but logins won't happen at all if your server's dynamic IP address changes and you've hard-coded a different IP address into your registration at neorouter.com.
Setting Up a NeoRouter Client. As mentioned previously, there are NeoRouter clients available for almost every platform imaginable, except iPhones and iPads. Hopefully, they're in the works. So Step #1 is to download whatever clients are appropriate to meet your requirements. Here's the NeoRouter Download Link. Make sure you choose a client for the Free version of NeoRouter. And make sure it is a version 1.7 client! Obviously, the computing platform needs to match your client device. The clients can be installed in the traditional way with Windows machines, Macs, etc.
CentOS NeoRouter Client. As part of the installation above, we have automatically installed the NeoRouter client for your particular flavor of CentOS 6, 32-bit or 64-bit. In order to access resources on your NeoRouter server from other clients, you will need to activate the client on your server as well. This gets the server a private IP address in the 10.0.0.0 network.
To activate the client, type: nrclientcmd. You'll be prompted for your Domain, Username, and Password. You can use the registered domain name from neorouter.com if you completed step #5. Or you can use the private IP address of your server. If your router supports hairpin NAT, you can use the public IP address or server's FQDN, if you have one.
To exit from NeoRouter Explorer, type: quit. The NeoRouter client will continue to run so you can use the displayed private IP addresses to connect to any other online devices in your NeoRouter VPN. All traffic from connections to devices in the 10.0.0.0 network will flow through NeoRouter's encrypted VPN tunnel. This includes inter-office SIP and IAX communications between Asterisk® endpoints.
Admin Tools for NeoRouter. Here are a few helpful commands for monitoring and managing your NeoRouter VPN.
Browser access to NeoRouter Configuration Explorer (requires user with Admin privileges)
Browser access to NeoRouter Network Explorer (user with Admin or User privileges)
To access your NeoRouter Linux client: nrclientcmd
To restart NeoRouter Linux client: /etc/rc.d/init.d/nrservice.sh restart
To restart NeoRouter Linux server: /etc/rc.d/init.d/nrserver.sh restart
To set domain: nrserver -setdomain YOUR-VPN-NAME domainpassword
For a list of client devices: nrserver -showcomputers
For a list of existing user accounts: nrserver -showusers
For the settings of your NeoRouter VPN: nrserver -showsettings
To add a user account: nrserver -adduser username password user
To add admin account: nrserver -adduser username password admin
Test VPN access: http://www.neorouter.com/checkport.php
For a complete list of commands: nrserver –help
To change client name from default pbx.local1:
- Edit /etc/hosts
- Edit /etc/sysconfig/network
- Edit /etc/sysconfig/network-scripts/ifcfg-eth0
- Edit /etc/asterisk/vm_general.inc
- reboot
For the latest NeoRouter happenings, follow the NeoRouter blog on WordPress.com.
GPL2 License. The install-neorouter application is open source software licensed under GPL2. The NeoRouter Server and Client software is freeware but not open source. This installer has been specifically tailored for use on PBX in a Flash 2 servers, but it can easily be adjusted to work with virtually any Linux-based Asterisk system. If you make additions or changes, we hope you'll share them on our forums for the benefit of the entire VoIP community. Enjoy!
Originally published: Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Need help with Asterisk? Visit the NEW PBX in a Flash Forum.
whos.amung.us If you're wondering what your fellow man is reading on Nerd Vittles these days, wonder no more. Visit our new whos.amung.us statistical web site and check out what's happening. It's a terrific resource both for us and for you.
Special Thanks to Our Generous Sponsors
Awesome Vitelity Special. Vitelity has generously offered a terrific discount for Nerd Vittles readers. You now can get an almost half-price DID from our special Vitelity sign-up link. If you're seeking the best flexibility in choosing an area code and phone number plus the lowest entry level pricing plus high quality calls, then Vitelity is the hands-down winner. Vitelity provides Tier A DID inbound service in over 3,000 rate centers throughout the US and Canada. When you use our special link to sign up, Nerd Vittles gets a few shekels down the road to support our open source development efforts while you get an incredible signup deal as well. The going rate for Vitelity's DID service is $7.95 a month which includes up to 4,000 incoming minutes on two simultaneous channels with terminations priced at 1.45¢ per minute. Not any more! For our users, here's a deal you can't (and shouldn't) refuse! Sign up now, and you can purchase a Tier A DID with unlimited incoming calls and four simultaneous channels for just $3.99 a month. To check availability of local numbers and tiers of service from Vitelity, click here. NOTE: You can only use the Nerd Vittles sign-up link to order your DIDs, or you won't get the special pricing! Vitelity's rate is just 1.44¢ per minute for outbound calls in the U.S. There is a $35 prepay when you sign up. This covers future usage. Any balance is refundable if you decide to discontinue service with Vitelity.
3CX is a software PBX that's easy to install & manage. It includes integrated softphones, WebRTC conferencing and essential add-ons out of the box, at no additional cost. Try the free edition at www.3cx.com. Better yet, download the PIAF5 ISO powered by 3CX. Free version includes support for 8 simultaneous calls with a SIP trunk.
RentPBX, a long-time partner and supporter of PIAF project, is offering generous discounts for Nerd Vittles readers. For all of your Incredible PBX hosting needs, sign up at www.RentPBX.com and use code NOGOTCHAS to get the special pricing. The code will lower the price to $14.99/month, originally $24.99/month. It's less than 50¢/day.
Some Recent Nerd Vittles Articles of Interest…


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Full profile →'">
The author is a Forbes contributor. The opinions expressed are those of the writer.
Ben Evans wrote a great post recently called "Instagram and YouTube."
In it, he basically makes the case for 2012 acquisition of Instagram being an excellent "trade" although not necessarily all that helpful to the company's fortunes in the long-run.
To support his argument, he puts the metrics of photos shared on Instagram (55 million shared a day) in context of other web services such as Facebook itself (350 million), WhatsApp (400 million), and SnapChat (350 million).
Hence, in the grand scheme of things, Instagram seems to be a rather puny service.
Ben goes on to say that Facebook's core raison d'etre problem is really (and these are my words, not his) that it is a monolithic service created in the web age which, although it has remarkably remade itself to live in the mobile age, faces an onslaught of new specialized mobile services that bleed away users and engagement.
So, Facebook may have made a great "trade" buying Instagram for $1 billion in April 2012, as it had only 30 million users then and over 150 million now, but - Ben says - there are lots of other Instagrams that have popped up since then too. Buying Instagram was just putting a finger in the dike for Facebook.
So, I concede to Ben that Facebook's future is by no means guaranteed. They most certainly face many new competitors who seem to
raise bucket loads of capital by the day to arm themselves.
However, I think this argument severely understates what a master-stroke of an acquisition buying Instagram was 18 months ago. I think it's even possible to argue that it was the best Internet acquisition ever.
Of all the Internet acquisitions done in the last 15 years, the 3 best appear to be PayPal, YouTube, and now Instagram. All have been brilliant.
But the best?
Well, bread and butter has always been search and monetizing that intent. YouTube allows Google to extend that basic business model to more inventory. So, important to the business? Sure. But YouTube still isn't the core business on which Google relies.