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Disclosure: Please note we may generate revenue through the links/ads on this page and throughout this site. That said, we do NOT accept paid reviews and take great pride in providing honest opinions and objective information on products/services. Put simply, if a product isn't good enough for us to personally buy, we won't recommend it.Enchanted Diamonds is a relatively new company founded in 2012 by 2 friends, Joshua Niamehr and Jonathan Las. Their vision for the company is to change the way diamond engagement rings are traditionally bought online and to make the buying experience as simple as possible.
With a physical showroom based in New York City, Enchanted Diamonds combines the ease of online shopping and the ability for customers to preview diamonds in person at an offline location.
In this review of Enchanted Diamonds, we are going to take an indepth look into their services and products. Hopefully, the findings here will steer you towards better decisions when shopping for a diamond engagement ring.
In terms of diamond inventory, EnchantedDiamonds.com offers a sizable selection of loose diamonds with images/videos. Now, if you had been reading Beyond4Cs.com, you will know that magnified images/videos are extremely important features to have when shopping for a diamond online.
Remember, the first rule of buying a diamond online is NEVER BUY BLIND if you want to avoid the pitfalls that many other consumers fall into. That's why I never recommend shopping at retailers where they expect you to make a selection based on a grading report alone.
Besides magnified videos/images, Enchanted Diamonds also provides tangible cut data like ASET/Idealscope images for many of their listing. You can see an example of such a listing below…
You can toggle between the various views using the thumbnails found in the listings.
For round diamond listings that are marked with a blue colored "Sarine" label, you can get access to Sarine light reports which offers cut connoisseurs an additional level of data to analyze potential purchases.
View tangible details of the diamond like ASET/Idealscope images and videos.
Note: You can request a Sarine Light evaluation to be performed on round diamond listings because Enchanted Diamonds has the equipment setup at their office.
One unique feature that sets EnchantedDiamonds.com apart from other online vendors is the ability for customers to preview diamonds at their showroom without any obligations. All diamonds that are are marked with the "Showroom" label can be previewed at their New York office with no charge.
Here's a direct URL link you can use for your convenience: NYC Showroom
If you live near the area and would like to see your diamonds in person, all you need to do is to contact them to book a consultation in advance or schedule a viewing via their web application (seen below).
Do note that you typically need to book an appointment at least 7 days in advance as they have a pretty busy schedule.
Currently, EnchantedDiamonds.com only offers a collection of 45 different ring designs (mainly the classic, elegant and timeless styles). Frankly speaking, there isn't a lot of choices and you may find yourself being limited by the designs available.
However, Enchanted Diamonds does make up for this by offering a customization service where they will work with you to design the dream ring of your choosing. Unlike customization work that other vendors offer, there's no additional design fees involved.
More importantly, they are willing to offer computer renderings of their designs and work with you to ensure the finished product exceeds your expectations.
Most vendors only carry stock for diamonds within the colorless (D-F) and near colorless (G-J) ranges. However, if you prefer warm colored diamonds with faint tints, locating such a diamond may not be a straightforward task!
That said, Enchanted Diamonds is one of the rare vendors that actually offer diamonds in the faint to light color ranges (K-Z). To illustrate what I mean, here are 2 examples of a light yellow diamond (GIA W-X) and a well-cut M colored round brilliant diamond.
Enchanted Diamond's business model revolves around an "agent model" which cuts out the middleman. In order to keep costs low and pass the savings onto the customers, they do not hold a physical inventory of diamonds.
To build up their inventory listings, they partner with many different suppliers to offer a wide range of loose diamonds. Since EnchantedDiamonds.com don't own the diamonds themselves, they rely mainly on their suppliers to provide details like magnified images and videos.
One small aspect I didn't like about EnchantedDiamonds.com was the lack of consistency in which some diamond listings were presented. From different lighting conditions, different angles in which photographs are captured, lack diamond details to even wrong images being displayed, it can sometimes be a little messy.
The lack of quality control in their listings can make stone selection a little challenging.
When I personally tested them out, I made a number of random requests on diamonds that only had magnified images on their listing pages. I tried to ask for videos/ASETs/Idealscope images to be captured. As it turns out, Enchanted Diamonds couldn't get hold of these data for some of these diamonds (because their supplier did not have the proper equipment).
In my opinion, it's a huge bummer and a waste of time to search for potentially purchase-worthy stones only to realize later that ASET/Idealscope images aren't available for them.
So, if you are shopping at Enchanted Diamonds, you may want to check out listings that indicate the presence of ASET/Idealscope images first. To save yourself time and frustration, I recommend that you avoid diamonds without any image/video listings (circled in red).
Enchanted Diamonds offer a generous 30 day money back guarantee for all purchased products except for custom made jewelry pieces (exchangeable) and wholesale diamonds (final sale). Personally, I like their kind gesture on providing complimentary return shipping in the event you change your mind about a purchase.
You would also be pleased to know that Enchanted Diamonds offers a lifetime warranty on purchases. This means that you can get your jewelry serviced (repair, cleaning, resizing) for free. Compared to other online vendors like BlueNile, Enchanted Diamonds goes one step further for their customers.
In terms of trade up policies, you can upgrade your diamond anytime as long as your new purchase is at least 2 times the original amount. i.e. if your old diamond purchase costs $5,000, your new diamond must cost at least $10,000 and be in its original condition.
When it comes to buying diamonds, the most common questions I get from readers usually relate to pricing and the maximum value they can get for their budget. So, how does Enchanted Diamonds measure up against their online competitors in terms of pricing?
In the first comparison, I've found the same exact 1.07 carat GIA cushion cut diamond being listed at both vendors. Note: This is an apple to apple comparison where both listings indicate the same diamond with the same GIA grading report number.
As you can see from the screenshots above, the diamond is listed on EnchantedDiamonds.com for $4,330 via electronic bank transfer. That's about $260 cheaper (approximately 5% less) than the listing of $4,590 at James Allen. While the absolute differences aren't earth-shattering, it doesn't hurt to save some money which you can use towards other purchases.
Blue Nile is the world's largest online diamond vendor and happens to be one of the worst places to shop for engagement rings and diamonds. In this round up, I selected a 1.45 carat round brilliant cut that's listed on BlueNile.com and managed to find the same exact stone at EnchantedDiamonds.com.
Again, you can see that Enchanted Diamonds is listing the same exact diamond for $619 less. Also, I want to draw your attention to Blue Nile's listing which only shows a generic "sample photo". In contrast, Enchanted Diamonds offers more details about the diamond by providing you with data like magnified photographs.
In the 3rd comparison against Brilliant Earth, we take a look at how an example to show you vastly different prices even though both companies are selling the same product.
Brilliant Earth is a company that markets itself heavily as a "green" and "eco-orientated" business. Interestingly, the same products they are selling can be found at other online sites too.
What I want to highlight here is the significantly higher product pricing Brilliant Earth charges you for being a "green" brand. The fact is, the diamond sells for a whooping $5,430 at Brilliant Earth. In stark contrast, Enchanted Diamonds lists it for only $4,080. If you do the math, you get a massive difference of $1,350 even though you are paying for the SAME diamond!
Like Blue Nile, BrilliantEarth.com expects you to make a purchase based on a grading report and they DO NOT provide any additional information in their listings. In this scenario, you can obviously see who offers the better deal and if you are an educated shopper, you shouldn't even think about buying diamonds blindly from vendors.
In general, I find EnchantedDiamonds.com to be extremely competitive with their diamond pricing. On their website, Enchanted Diamonds also has a price match policy which helps ensure customers get the best prices possible.
Unlike other jewelry companies who claim to offer you the lowest prices, most of them don't practice what they preach. In this aspect, Enchanted Diamonds is different. Based on the checks I made, their price points were really lower and I'm quite convinced they offer the best prices in both the online and offline world.
EnchantedDiamonds.com offers a category of diamonds that are labeled as "Final Sale". You can access them accessed in the search feature by turning on the option to "include wholesale (Final Sale) diamonds".
Do note that these diamonds cannot be returned once they are purchased and I generally don't recommend buying these diamonds unless you know exactly what you are doing. That said, there are some stunning and gorgeous stones offering incredible values to be found if you dig hard enough.
While there are some current aspects of their website which aren't perfect, Enchanted Diamonds is continuously making efforts to improve to their product offerings and website features.
Overall, I find Enchanted Diamonds to be a good vendor with superb customer service that's orientated to help consumers find what they want. They are a company I would recommend because of their excellent business policies and competitive pricing.
If you need help with buying a diamond or simply want a second opinion about a shortlisted diamond, feel free to get in touch with me via email directly.
Enchanted Diamonds seem to be marketing a feature on their site called the "Cut Score Calculator". I'm shopping for a round diamond and happened to come across it on their website here: https://beyond4cs.com/go/enchanted-cut-score-calculator/
While browsing their website, I noticed that the search results can be filtered and sorted by Cut Score. However, I'm not very sure about how it works. Does it mean that if I select a stone with a 100% score, I am guaranteed of a good looking stone? Please let me know asap as I plan on buying a diamond within the next week.
Great review! What's your opinion on the quality of the craftsmanship? I'm thinking of getting a customized ring setting design from them.
Thanks for the detailed review on Enchanted Diamonds. I love the wealth of information your site is providing and to be honest, I'm a huge fan of yours now. I've been browsing Enchanted Diamonds for some time now and had been using Beyond4Cs.com as my research bible.
So far, I had only heard of the ASET evaluation as a means to determine a diamond's cut and I had read through a few papers about it on AGS's website. Here's my question: is the Sarine Light just a gimmicky marketing tool created to help retailers sell their wares or is it really useful?
I've seen the Sarine videos posted on the site and I thought they were really impressive. Also, have you heard of the GemEx tool as well? One of my local dealers gave me a demonstration in store and the diamond really sparkled like mad.
I'm curious why Enchanted Diamonds offers diamonds that can't be returned. Some of these diamonds that are listed are really cheap based on my research thus far.
Is there anything wrong with those diamonds because I think the deals are too good to be true.
People viewing diamonds as investment should be cautioned against any stones of types widely held by the public, as a large scale dumping of diamonds in an economic depression will transpire. In the best of times, only professionals can buy and sell diamonds and make profits. As one of many items they should notice, see the price jump that starts at the five carat level, over the 4 range. A carbide tip pen across the table might be a good tool to see if a coating has been applied to make the gem appear whiter. HPHT gems are not investments! I hope readers appreciate that I didn't embed the tedious term "vetted" in those four sentences as these are neither veterinary nor military matters.
I have been researching diamonds for the past week, several hours a day and im starting to lose my mind.
I found a diamond on James Allen, #767790 that I like, and I found an ASET image on Enchanted Diamonds of the same diamond. https://enchanteddiamonds.com/diamonds/view/R140-HTKPE2
Can you look at it and let me know if it looks good. Also, it is $2400 cheaper on James Allen. I am a little thrown off by that…im guessing that neither owns the stone, but James Allen may have found out there is something wrong with it. Thoughts?
Also, can you check out #758382
Also, should i stay away from the True Hearts diamonds? I like the dimensions/proportions, but why do they only give this label to AGS stones.
Paul – thanks for your very helpful website. I'm looking at this diamond on Enchanted Diamond: https://enchanteddiamonds.com/diamonds/view/R120-35HR7D
Can you help me determine whether it has a good ASET chart? Per your article, I don't want to place too much weight on Enchanted Diamond's cut score.
Hi Paul – A good friend of mine put this https://enchanteddiamonds.com/diamonds/view/R140-SUD2HG on hold / order
Could you please provide some opinions? There is no ASET but all specs are in good ranges.
Any better stones similar to this?
Thank Paul!
What made the first not good/great?
I also concerned about the J color. I though I should be the max for round.
Hey Paul,
I've been looking into purchasing a diamond and ran into this site. It's been very helpful with my research as well as which online vendors are reputable. I wanted to get your opinion on a couple of diamonds as I narrow down which one I intend to purchase. Thanks!
1. https://enchanteddiamonds.com/diamonds/view/R241-HL1B1L
3. https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/2.30-carat-g-color-vs1-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-876741
Also, why is there such a price discrepancy between 2 and 3?
Thoughts about this?
Also- out of our price range but is this eye clean? JW for research.
How is this one? Will it be sparkly? Eye clean?
Trying to stay around the 3200-4k mark.
What do you think of these?
1. https://enchanteddiamonds.com/diamonds/view/Round/GIA-Certified-0-83-Carat-G-Color-VS2-Clarity-Diamond-5919MR
2. https://www.jamesallen.com//loose-diamonds/round-cut/0.83-carat-h-color-vs2-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-1052105
3. https://www.jamesallen.com//loose-diamonds/round-cut/0.82-carat-h-color-vs2-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-623868 (iffy)
Thank you so much for all of the extremely helpful information you provide.
I have an appointment at Enchanted Diamonds next week in New York, and was browsing their collection.
I am looking for something like this:
My budget is around $12k for the diamond and I'm looking for a round solitaire between 1.3-1.7 karats.
Do you have any diamonds you would recommend on their website?
Thank you again.
Paul, any diamond earrings you can recommend between 3-4k only?
thank you.
I took all your recommendations into all the parameters of a brilliant diamond, and I was wondering if this is a good deal and good quality round diamond (It has a HCA = 1.6):
ALSO, is brilliance.com a reliable diamond purchasing website?
Thank you!!!
Or is this one better from Brilliance.com ? It has HCA of 0.8.
Paul , thanks very much on all education you are providing to all of us and helping us make great decisions for our money.
I would appreciate if you provide me some guidance on princes cut . Also, what is your opinion on this particular stone ? What are the most important aspects when purchasing a princes cut stone?
Thank you for the great information, Paul! I've been looking online at various diamonds and I was wondering if you could provide some expert advice. I've narrowed my search down to the two following stones.
I really like the idealscope but I'm worried it won't be eye clean.
This is my other choice which looks to be eye clean but doesn't have any floure so I hope it's not yellowish in person. Thanks in advance for your help!
Hi Paul,
Thank you for all of the guidance you provide when shopping for a diamond. Can you provide us your opinion on this one.
I have made a request to the company to get the ASET And Idealscope Images. I was told they will ask the supplier and send the info. We have been using your "ideal proportions for round diamonds" with every stone we look at!
Hi Paul,
I'm in NYC now looking at diamond engagement rings. I've been looking at stones online for weeks trying to determine the best and largest stone I can purchase for around $75,000. I would like to pay less and would also pay a little more for something that makes sense.
1) For color, I hope that F will be my lowest but would consider G.
2) I'd rather have a better cut (sparkle) than a larger dull stone.
3) I would sacrifice clarity to SI1 at lowest for a larger stone (if I could not see any major flaws with my eyes)
4) I'm leaning towards Oval, elongated Cushion and possibly Pear and would appreciate your opinion and suggestions on what would be my best options.
5) I think I could get a 4 carat with my parameters but would like larger if possible.
I'm going to see if I can get a last minute appointment with Enchanted and James Allen today or tomorrow while I'm here.
Thank you for any help or advice you can give. :)
Hi Paul,
My bf and I have started engagement ring shopping and have been learning so much from the internet as well as through our shopping. However, Ive noticed that certain jewelers state the cut is the most important C. I guess my question is if I get an excellent or very good cut with a H or J color is that better than getting a good cut with a color G? I was attempting to stay within G, VS2, very good or good at least, and 1.25 ct. I want to know where I can play with the 4 cs to minimize the price while not compromizing the carat size or the quality or the diamond. We are attempting to stay within $8,000-$10,000.


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Deficit Hits New Low Under Obama
The Congressional Budget Office announced today that in 2014 the federal deficit will shrink by $46 billion more than the agency's previous projection, bringing the total deficit to $514 billion. The current prediction pales in comparison to the $1.9 trillion deficit in 2009. The deficit is projected to decrease again in 2015 to $478 billion, but it is expected to increase after that to cope with the rising cost of healthcare for aging Baby Boomers. The CBO also predicts that unemployment will decline gradually and fall under 6% in 2017.

subset: commoncrawl


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The page cannot be found
The page you are looking for might have been removed, had its name changed, or is temporarily unavailable.
Please try the following:
If you typed the page address in the Address bar, make sure that you spelled the damn thing correctly.
Open the
home page, and then look for links to the information you want.
Click the
button to try another link.
to look for information on the Internet.
HTTP Error 404 - File not found
Rhino Explorer


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Rabindranath Tagore
Rabindranath Tagore [Gurudev] (7 May 1861 – 7 August 1941 / Calcutta (Kolkata), Bengal Presidency / British India)
» Click to list general statistics » OR, select a date :
The Gardener Lxxxiii: She Dwelt On The Hillside
She dwelt on the hillside by edge
of a maize-field, near the spring that
flows in laughing rills through the
solemn shadows of ancient trees. The
read more >>
- Hits: Number of visitors who read the poem on the given date.
- Posts: Number of visitors who posted the poem to a friend (via e-mail) on the given date.
- Dates that have "0" hits may not be shown on the list.
- Dates, poems and poets that have "0" hits may not be shown on the list. Statistics are generated daily.


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On Friday, July 24, 2009 6:32 PM Dave Crossland wrote: > > Right - if root strings are a MAY requirement of the spec, that would > bring back the looming threat of a court using DMCA-style laws to > force browsers to perform DRM. Exactly the opposite would be the case - the spec would instruct browsers to implement same-origin restrictions and explicitly ignore the content of root string, and only legacy IE browser would pay attention to it. VladimirReceived on Friday, 24 July 2009 22:49:40 UTC
This archive was generated by hypermail 2.3.1 : Tuesday, 6 January 2015 21:01:40 UTC


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Keeping up with household expenses can be a daunting task. Service providers are making it easier than ever to set up auto-pay features for their products. Furthermore, playing with credit cards makes it seem like you hardly ever have to look at your account balances. Unfortunately, that can make it easy to go over your allotted budget each month. Thats where the home budget app comes in.
In recent years, a growing number of budgeting apps have hit the app stores. You could scroll for hours through all of the various apps, comparing their needs. Fortunately, weve done the hard work for you.
Some apps are geared towards families, where others are designed for a single user. Some sync with bank accounts and others depend on your own input to keep track of your expenses. In this article, were going to break down some of the best budgeting apps for keeping up with your household and living expenses.
If youre hoping to split expenses and plan your budget with your spouse, family, or roommates, HomeBudget is a good place to start. With HomeBudget you can assign one person to be the payee, making it easy to determine who pays certain bills.
You and your family members can also assign expenses and attach images of your receipts to see who paid which bill.
At the end of the month, you can view reports that will tell you if you stayed under budget. You can then compare the months budget to the previous six months and decide if you need to increase your budget or try to cut some expenses.
If youre new to budgeting or are having trouble paying off debt, YNAB is the budgeting tool you need. Aside from keeping track of your spending, YNAB is also a learning resource. Signing up gives you access to budgeting tips and information that you may not be familiar with.
YNAB links up with your bank accounts to tell you just how much you need to save each month in order to keep up with everyday expenses like mortgage payments and utilities, and get out of debt.
Mint is designed to be your one-stop shop for all things financial. It combines your bills, bank accounts, student loans, credit cards, and more all in one place.
Mint enables you to track your spending, plan a budget, and gain access to resources like free monthly credit scores.
Having an organized budget is a reward of its own. But, if you need even more of an incentive, Unsplurge is here to help. With Unsplurge, you can focus on saving up for a goal. Youll get updates when you save enough to splurge on your goal.
Its a great tool for people who like to see their progress and feel the sense of accomplishment when they meet their objective.
Now pick the app that sounds right for your needs and get started with saving money and managing your household budget today.


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Actually, it's been here for a week and we're just now getting around to blogging about it. 🙂
Last Friday we published the seventh Jinx Hamilton adventure. Thank you to all the early readers who have let us know how much they're enjoying the latest installment. (And yes, we are at work on Book 8.)
Creavit wizard Irenaeus Chesterfield is back, with a bigger, badder plan to go after Jinx and company. In the weeks leading up to Christmas, Jinx starts having dream visions about the Amulet of Caorunn. Trying to get more details, she and Tori try a dicey double enchantment with shocking results.
Take this adventure with Jinx, Tori, and the gang as they work to recover the Amulet, stop Chesterfield, and enter the mysterious Middle Realm. Filled with mystery, suspense, intrigue and a trademark dash of humor, enjoy the latest novel by bestselling author Juliette Harper.


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Something special came in the mail awhile back and I am so excited to reveal it today. The uber talented, Rae Missigman and Roben-Marie Smith, asked me to play with a stamp line (that Rae designed). I love them!
I so appreciate how the stamps are ready to use.
Just peel off the backing and stick onto any acrylic block.
Here I'm making the initial background. It's how I play as well as intuitively think about the next step.
I have a saying:
I eat color for breakfast.
Texture for lunch.
Stencils for dinner.
And for dessert, gesso with a splattering of gold paint.
I got so carried away that I forgot to take step-by-step pictures. OK that's a lie.
Things got real muddy when I added charcoal grey-blue paint. I don't know what I was thinking and then things started to go south.
So I had to salvage what I could. These circles were the result of an art rescue mission! Lol
Not only is it possible to sew directly onto your art journal, but it's fun! You kinda have to wrestle with the binding and try not to say swear words. Here, I simply connected the dots with an easy straight-stitch and left some of the strings hanging.
God hides in the details.
Thanks for visiting!
If you're interested in purchasing these stamps, head on over to Roben-Marie's shop here.
If you're interested in purchasing these stamps, head on over to Roben-Marie's shop here.


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General OneFile
A one-stop source for news and periodical articles on a wide range of topics: business, computers, current events, economics, education, environmental issues, health care, hobbies, humanities, law, literature and art, politics, science, social science, sports, technology, and many general interest topics. Millions of full-text articles, many with images. Updated daily.
Britannica Online
The classic encyclopedia in digital form. Great for subject overviews and basic information. It is an encyclopedia, so not great for higher level/college research.
Academic OneFile
Academic OneFile is the premier source for peer-reviewed, full-text articles from the world's leading journals and reference sources. With extensive coverage of the physical sciences, technology, medicine, social sciences, the arts, theology, literature and other subjects, Academic OneFile is both authoritative and comprehensive. With millions of articles available in both PDF and HTML full-text with no restrictions, researchers are able to find accurate information quickly. Includes full-text coverage of the New York Times back to 1995. Updated daily.
JSTOR currently includes more than 2,000 academic journals, dating back to the first volume ever published, along with thousands of monographs and other materials relevant for education. This database is for college level, peer-reviewed research.
Gale Databases
Gale has many specialty databases in various subjects. Click above to see the list.
Gale Virtual Reference Center
Ebooks on a variety of different subject areas.
NPHS Library Online Catalog
Search the NPHS online library catalog for print and ebooks on your topic.


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Question #1 What equipment did you use when you started brewing?
I've been brewing for so long that I think I've lost sight of my meager beginnings. Although, in some ways things haven't changed much. What did your first homebrew setup look like. Maybe we can help prospective homebrewers understand what it takes to get started. Here we go. To brew beer from extract and using the partial boil method I used the following;
- large stainless steel pot (thin metal)
- hydrometer
- stick on fermometer
- plastic fermentation bucket
- airlock
- plastic bottling bucket
- racking cane
- tubing
- cloth grain bag
- bottle caps
- bottles
- capper
- one step sanitizer
- Brewers Best Altbier kit (extract, grains, yeast, hops)
- homebrewing pamplet
- The Complete Joy of Homebrewing, Charlie Papazian
- some ice
- a sink
What did you use? Was yours similar? Anybody use less equipment? Anybody start with one of those amazing brewing sculptures?


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Physicians prefer spending their time providing actual care to their patients. Many of them end up limited in their ability to do so due to inefficient office procedures. They're often dealing with outdated ways of handling medical data, struggling with software that's not suited to their needs, or unable to communicate effectively with outside facilities. Physician Workflow involves getting patients signed in, obtaining the appropriate paperwork from them, and getting them back to see the doctor as quickly as possible. It covers doctors having relevant data immediately available to figure out the best path forward for their patients. It's office staff making sure all needed paperwork gets organized, that prescriptions are accounted for, and that all medical data captured by the doctor can be pulled when needed. Missing critical information during any of these steps often is the difference between life and death.
An article published on the Physician's Practice website by Dr. Patricia Moore, Ph.D. back in 2002 shows the early beginnings of the quest to use software to smooth out the pain points in the healthcare process. It details the efforts of vendors to create electronic solutions promising to give doctors the Physician Workflow of their dreams. They included software platforms for handling EMRs (Electronic Medical Records) and providing PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants).
As detailed in a 2015 article from the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), the biggest problems doctors face in implementing an effective Physician Workflow come when forcing technology to fit current procedures instead of taking the opportunity revamp office functions and create ways to use the technology to help both themselves and patients.
Maintaining Physician Workflow with Electronic Records
The AAFP recommends using Electronic Health Records (EHAs) to ignite a Physician Workflow. Having an accurate EHA means having better medical histories available and getting alerted when something is missing. This allows office staff to contact patients beforehand for needed information. Doing this helps eliminate frustrating piles of paperwork for patients to wade through when they get to the office.
AAFP provides insight into non-computer solutions for office staff. Suggestions involve changing up the layout of an office to move patients through more efficiently. Providing access to tools like tablets or other devices lets patients look up information on their own. Cross-training staff about different office functions means always having a person available to answer any questions posed to them, getting rid of single-person information silos preventing knowledge from being spread throughout an office.
AAFP sees how the right innovative Physician Workflow gets the most-needed data straight to doctors, letting them create the best treatment plans possible. They envision procedures allowing doctors to send prescriptions straight from the examination room to the pharmacy without the need for the patient to stop by the front desk. They see the addition of open-access scheduling giving patients same-day access to physicians.
Any new workflow has to suit the needs of the office. The wrong system makes the entire process more unwieldy and difficult for the staff to work in, leading to extra patient discomfort and further degrading the doctor visit experience. Solution providers need to understand the basic flow of how the offices of medical providers function if they're going to provide effective software that actually meets the needs of physicians. Companies like Health Catalyst strive to take the input of medical professionals into account when building out a modern Physician Workflow solution.
Patients look for physicians who put in the time and effort to make their experience as easy as possible. Doctors looking to provide this standard should make sure that any software installed or changes to office routine keep the needs of patients in mind, freeing them up to focus on providing quality patient care.
Improvements aren't always from the doctor's perspective in treating the patient, but also the patient as a consumer looking to better their quality of care. Patient satisfaction, lowering of medical errors and readmissions, along with eliminating duplications of services are just a few of the fundamental focuses that are being analyzed in order to improve the overall quality within healthcare. By no means are patients going or should they begin treating themselves. However, being a well-informed patient or relative of a patient creates a foundation with which better care will be provided. This can include knowledge about treatments, follow-up appointments, prescription medicine schedules, and at-risk behaviors that may prevent or retard recovery. Other improvements make sure that the healthcare professional has as much information at their fingertips. Whether this is having the patient's medical history readily available, being able to immediately look up outside sources to diagnose illnesses, or catching when prescribed drugs might cause serious consequences with one another. The more information that is accessible, the more effectively and efficiently treatments can be made, especially on an individual basis.


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Mr. Szabolcs Hallai
|Mr. Szabolcs Hallai
CISA, CISM, CITRM, C/CISO Partner
Lead IT auditor and Cybersecurity Expert
IT Business Consulting Hungary Ltd.
Founder and contributing owner of IT Business Consulting Hungary as well as Chief Information Security Officer of Hungarian Energy and Public Utility Regulatory Authority is experienced IT (24 years) and ITSEC (18 years) expert responsible for operational organizing and overview of cybersecurity in more than a dozen organizations which includes banking, insurance and financial investment. He conducted more than 62 IT/Due diligence/AML audits and 35 IT Risk Assessments, was successful in ISO 27001, ISO 20000, COBIT, MiFID based organizational and operational restructuring with a knowledge of relevant USA, EU and Hungarian AML legislation.


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Dorala Pin Belt
€ 39.95 including VAT
Combining thick leather with a beautifully presented buckle, this dark belt is sure to toughen up your look. High-quality construction means you can rely on it for seasons to come. Thanks to the pin buckle-system, it's a snap to open and release.
- Sturdy fullgrain leather
- Antiqued buckle
- Branded tip
- Height: 1.5 cm


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I walked away thinking that if I spent enough time in that room, I might become a painter myself! Even with my lack of aptitude, I felt incredibly inspired.
What I am not showing is the amazing mind map of the concepts, contrasts and connections behind his next exhibition, which is coming into bloom -- almost literally -- next year.
Feast of Flowers will be a heaven-on-earth celebration of Florida through the intersections of painting, ecology, history and myth. What could be cooler?
There will be lots of ways to explore the exhibit (e-book, app, etc.), even for folks who aren't able to get to Jacksonville.
Who knows? The art osmosis thing might work that way, too.


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Wanna see my press release? It's all official n stuff :) (Note: I am also working on making the show available online on demand elsewhere and offering the audio-only as a podcast.)
Makers in Business Episode 1 Ann Lee of Friends Fabric Art from Liz Smith on Vimeo.UPDATE: My show will be available at http://LTC.org on Channel 8 streaming at 6:30 EST Tuesdays and 8:30 EST Thursdays. It is also available on demand. Go to http://ltc.org/content/ltc-8 and scroll down to find Makers in Business on the schedule, There should be a link to Watch Now, a pop up player will start right up, you need Flash to play the content. Thank you!
Wanna see my press release? It's all official n stuff :) (Note: I am also working on making the show available online on demand elsewhere and offering the audio-only as a podcast.)
Makers in Business with Liz Smith is a new local access TV show from
which airs on Comcast Channel 8 on Tuesdays at 6:30 PM and Thursdays at 8:30
PM. It can also be viewed online http://www.ltc.org/
during airtime and on demand. Lowell, MA
Each half hour episode Liz Smith has a conversation with someone who makes things and sells them. The focus of the program is the intersection of commerce and creativity with an emphasis on the particular challenges creative business owners face and how they solve them.
Makers in Business will introduce viewers to creative people and their businesses, educate viewers about what it takes to run a small creative business, and help other creative business owners through the sharing of our experiences.
Note: the first episode features a delightful conversation with Ann Lee of Friends Fabric Art.
Liz Smith has been a maker in business for over 25 years. Currently she makes and sells paper goods and items made from wool and polymer clay under the business name Made in
Lowell She currently works
out of studio A305 at Western Avenue Studios in Lowell. Aside
from a live, 8 minute segment on The Martha Stewart Show in 2010, this is her
first television program.


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The "Flava Lady", Marlene Myrie has many fans who buy her delightful food creations every week at her booth in the The Hollywood Farmer's Market.
- "Marlene's grilled chicken and a hearty zinfandel have been a Sunday tradition in our home for twelve years."
"The complex combination of seasonings that go into Marlene's cuisine is endlessly intriguing and most delicious."
Wright and Bill
Jefferson Park
"- "The rice and beans are absolutely amazing! there's a lot of flavor - I highly recommend you try them. you won't be dissapointed.
Vejune j. Baltrusaitis
- "Since I started buying the "flava lady's food I haven't been able to stop. each sunday I can't wait to taste the spicy and very palatable chili. I shared it with my colleague and she made me promise to bring her a serving every week. I then tried her jerkj chicken combo, which consists of jerk chicken, and your choice of two sides, I love the chicken with the rice and plantains absolutely delicious, you've got to try it: you'll be glad you did !"
Roz Mayfield
Hollywood, CA.
- My microbiotic diet has opened up the delicious world of grains and legumes. "you should come to the hollywood farmers market", a good friend suggested, "there's a woman who has the best rice and beans". he was right,Marlene is flava! even for us - almost vegans ? who care about quality and taste.
Karile Baltrusaitis
Hollywood, CA.
Chef Marlene have made several TV appearances over the years:
1994 The Morning News on KTLA Channel 5 Los Angeles, Ca
1996 Making it! KTLA channel 5 Los Angeles, Ca
2000 The Morning News on KTLA Channel 5 Los Angeles, Ca
2001 Now You Are Cooking KNBC Channel 4 Los Angeles, Ca
California Gold by Huell Howser 2003 and 2006
Chef Marlene also adds to her credit several articles in the Los Angeles Times and the LA Weekly.


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The Jehovah's Witness data-collection scandal
In an era of widespread data collection that has seen companies like Facebook amass vast amounts of information about its users, European privacy activists have found a new enemy: Jehovah's Witnesses.
On Tuesday, the Court of the Justice of the European Union concluded that Jehovah's Witnesses who are preaching door-to-door are subject to the same European Union data-protection rules — known as the General Data Protection Regulation — as massive tech companies like Facebook and Google.
The Christian-affiliated group is famous for its habit of showing up at front doors and handing out copies of its religious magazine The Watchtower, but in Finland, door-to-door preachers have also been writing down people's names, house addresses, and religious beliefs so they could use the information for follow-up visits. That is a violation of Europe's privacy laws, which require consent in collecting personal data, according to Europe's high court.
After Finland banned the preachers' unsolicited collection of data in 2013, the Jehovah's Witnesses appealed in court, arguing that, as Reuters put it, "Preaching should be considered a personal religious activity and as such the notes taken down during such visits are also personal."
Now, with Tuesday's ruling, Jehovah's Witnesses have joined Mark Zuckerberg as the new — but presumably less smoked-meats-obsessed — face of the excesses of Big Data.


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BRAWNY REEL UPGRADE Adding Structural Strength to Get the Job Done
Coxreels® introduces the brawny upgrade available for any hand crank and motorized 1125 Series hose reel. This new feature is an added option that strengthens the discs and the drum, preventing potential damage under increased pressure usage.
The Brawny option includes all the distinctive features and benefits found on the standard 1125 series with the addition of structural reinforcement. The Brawny reels are designed with 10-gauge steel plates welded into each disc to keep them from bowing. The center drum is thickened and upgraded from standard 16-gauge to 14-gauge steel to prevent deformation and eventual crushing of the drum that can be caused by hose pressure.
To order the brawny upgrade, simply add prefix "BX" on standard 3,000 PSI 1125 models or "BH" on high pressure 5,000 PSI 1125 models. This brawny option is ideal for high pressure spraying operations found in the fire and rescue fields, pressure washing markets, and anywhere high pressure hose is used. By adding the needed strength to the drum and discs, these professional grade reels are better prepared to tackle the toughest jobs in the industry.
Coxreels® has been manufacturing high quality professional grade hose, cord, and cable reels since 1923. Offering a full product line serving the industry in every channel and application, Coxreels® takes great pride in designing, building, and supporting the world's finest reels made right here in the U.S.A.
For further information on the Coxreels® product line, contact Customer Service at (800) 269-7335 or visit www.coxreels.com.


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Loama GOLS-Certified Organic Rubber Latex Mattress
The OrganicPedic Earth™ Loama™ is a medium-firm plush 8" flat-surface organic mattress made with GOLS-certified organic natural rubber latex. It starts with a 3" core of supportive medium latex and is topped with a 4" layer of soft latex. The organic mattress is then covered in our signature GOTS-certified organic cotton-and-wool quilting.
FIRMNESS: Medium-Firm Plush
*DEPTH: Approximately 8"
CORE: GOLS-Certified Organic Rubber Latex
COVER: GOTS-Certified Organic Wool and GOTS-Certified Organic Cotton
SYNTHETIC FIRE RETARDANTS: None
SIZES: Twin - King
WARRANTY: 20-Year Limited Warranty
MSRP (mattress only): twin $3,699 • full $4,399 • queen $4,899 • king $6,499
*All dimensions are subject to a slight variance due to being custom made.
Foundation sold separately.
20-year limited warranty


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WASHINGTON, D.C., (August 4, 2014)—The Open Society Foundations convened an impressive group of civil society advocates to urge African and the U.S. government to take meaningful steps to improve transparency and accountability. Those efforts are critical to ensuring a stable future where prosperity is widely shared and sustained in Africa.
Open Society Foundations founder and chairman George Soros was joined by the Vice President of Liberia Joseph N. Boakai, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Heather Higginbottom, philanthropist Mo Ibrahim and leading civil society representatives from across the African continent. Participants called on the U.S. and African governments to guarantee space for civil society participation and prioritize efforts to combat poor governance and corruption.
"Civil society participation is fundamental to promote accountability and good governance in Africa. The United States and African governments must provide space for civil society to operate to ensure that Africa's resources are used for the benefit of all people" said Elias Issac, the director of the Open Society Initiative for Southern Africa in Angola.
African governments have made firm commitments to improving governance and accountability, but the continent continues to lose billions of dollars to corruption and poor governance. One estimate suggests that more than $1 trillion in illicit financial flows were transferred out of Africa over the last 30 years. Since 2003, 34 African countries have acceded to the African Peer Review Mechanism, 35 countries have ratified the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption, and 23 have ratified the African Charter on Democracy Elections and Governance. These commitments are impressive. But they do not reflect how Africa's public resources are being managed.
The lack of political will to implement existing mechanisms and advance reform inhibits meaningful participation of citizens, fuels corruption, and hinders development. Limited transparency and poor governance is too common within the extractive industries including oil, gas, and mining. Tax evasion, trade mispricing, and opaque budgeting processes further inhibit inclusive development. Event participants argued that inclusive economic growth goes hand in hand with strengthening democracies and institutions. Space for a vibrant civil society is essential to strengthen democracy through enhanced citizen participation and monitoring.
"While African leaders are looking for the U.S. government and businesses to expand trade and investment in Africa, we too as African citizens are asking our governments show us what has been done to ensure that such monies are used to promote inclusive and sustainable development," Jeggan Gray-Johnson, an advocacy officer with the Open Society Foundations' Africa Regional Office in Johannesburg, said.
The objective of the U.S.-Africa Leaders' Summit is to "Invest in the Next Generation" in Africa. To ensure inclusive development with wide-spread opportunity and sustained growth, U.S. and African leaders must provide space for civil society organizations to operate and they must ensure meaningful implementation of transparency and accountability efforts.
Advancing equitable development in Africa requires the U.S. and African governments to honor their commitments to combating corruption and strengthening the African Union's standards of good governance. We must shift from rhetoric to reality. A vibrant civil society plays an essential role in ensuring effective governance. The U.S.-Africa Leaders' Summit offers an opportunity for the United States and African heads of state and government to embrace the multiple pledges they have undertaken to strengthen governance and ensure the participation of citizens across the continent who demand to be governed well.
Fast facts:
Africa is the world's fastest-growing continent, with gross domestic product expected to rise by an average of 6% annually. Foreign direct investment flows have spiked from $15 billion in 2002 to $37 billion in 2006 and $46 billion in 2012.
While Africa has registered tremendous growth, it has at the same time recorded limited prosperity. Inequality is widening. This is largely due limited transparency and accountability and weak governance institutions.
One estimate suggests that more than $1 trillion in illicit financial flows were transferred out of Africa over the last 30 years, the vast majority of which was through trade mis-pricing. The continent's largest economy, South Africa, is estimated to have seen $23 billion in losses in 2011. Nigeria is estimated to have lost $12 billion lost in the same timeframe.
Public spending in many resource rich countries must better promote inclusive growth. In 2013, the Africa Progress Panel reported that Chad, Guinea, Niger, Uganda and Zimbabwe each spent less than .5% of their Gross Domestic Product on social protection programs.
There is a growing body of evidence that shows that the best way to manage public funds effectively and equitably is through budget systems that are transparent, open to public engagement and scrutiny, and that have robust mechanisms and institutions for participation and oversight.
During the U.S.-Africa Leaders' Summit, U.S. companies will unveil at least $900 million in investment in Africa, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce. Partnerships will be leveraged with the aim of increasing access to electricity in Sub-Saharan Africa with a total investment of $300 billion in Sub-Saharan Africa by 2030. The U.S. Millennium Challenge Account has further potential to infuse over $7 billion through Poverty Reduction Compacts in Africa and the Africa Growth and Opportunities Act is due for renewal later this year.
Many African Union member states have already made commitments to transparency and good governance in natural resource sectors, and combating corruption. There is much on which the U.S.-Africa Leaders' Summit should build:
34 African countries are part of the African Peer Review Mechanism, which reviews countries on the basis of their commitment to policies, standards and practices that promote sustainable and inclusive public participation, good governance and inclusive economic development;
35 countries have ratified and deposited the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption; which calls for establishing of independent Anti-Corruption Agencies, pass laws of Access to information; passing of laws that address corruption in both private and public sectors, and pass laws that address banking secrecy;
23 have ratified and deposited the African Charter on Democracy Elections and Governance to the African Union Commission;
15 countries are Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative compliant; and8 have or are creating action plans under the Open Government Partnership. Jeggan Grey-Johnson, Program Officer Research and Advocacy Africa Regional Office, AfRO President Place 1 Hood Avenue Rosebank PO Box 678, Wits, 2050 tel: +27 (0) 11 587 5000 fax: +27 (0) 11 587 5099 Cell: +27 (0) 83 620 0578 web: www.afrimap.org


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ORANGE BEACH, Ala. (AP) — Police who chased a car for miles along a highway at speeds up to 100 mph said the driver was drunk, hardly a rarity in this resort town. But there was more: When they looked inside the flipped vehicle with guns drawn, they found an 11-year-old girl at the wheel.
I'm a little curious where her parents are during all this, and whether this is something she does all the time.


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- » A note of finality to Brown's tragedy
- » No new trial for Degorski
- » The disparate imposition of death sentence
- » 15 convicts remain on Illinois' death row
- » Moral of Brown's case: 'Never too late to call'
- » Official wants closure on Brown's reward
- » Degorski being prepared for prison transfer
- » Brown's jury spares Degorski's life
- » Images after Degorski life sentence
- » No matter what, death penalty flawed
- » Degorski's new life: Controlled, daunting
- » Most jurors wanted the death penalty
- » Victim's mom: "He deserved to lose his life"
- » Palatine officials see end to dark chapter
- » Degorski jury begins deliberations
- More Related Stories
More Coverage
- Full Daily Herald coverage of the People vs. James Degorski
Related links
Photo Galleries
- Images after Degorski guilty verdict
- Images from the James Degorski trial
- Images from the Juan Luna trial
- Images from the 1993 crime scene
Guilty, at last.
More than 16 years ago, prosecutors say Jim Degorski walked into Richard and Lynn Ehlenfeldt's Palatine restaurant with a pocket full of bullets and a twisted desire to "do something big." Tuesday, a Cook County jury took less than two hours to convict him of murder - seven times - in one of the most notorious crimes in suburban history.
Family members of the Ehlenfeldts and five employees working with them at the Palatine Brown's Chicken & Pasta restaurant on Jan. 8, 1993, have waited literally a lifetime for this verdict - the lifetime of Michael Castro, the youngest victim, who was only 16 at the time. The other victims were Guadalupe Maldonado, Thomas Mennes, Marcus Nellsen and Rico Solis.
As the court clerk read the verdict for each of the seven victims, Robert Mennes, older brother of Thomas, slowly exhaled. Diane Clayton, mother of Nellsen, wiped away tears, while Richard Ehlenfeldt's sister Ann clasped hands with one of the couple's daughters, Jennifer Shilling, who dabbed her eyes with a tissue.
Profound sadness coupled with a sense of relief that their quest for justice is almost over swept across the faces of Ehlenfeldt daughters Dana Sampson and Joy Ehlenfeldt. It was evident in the way the Castro family embraced in the hall after the verdict, in the quiet strength Maldonado's sons displayed, and in the muffled sobs of Rico Solis's sisters.
Across the aisle, members of Degorski's family did not visibly react to the verdict. His mother, Patricia - her face flushed and her eyes teary and downcast - remained stoic. Her lower lip quivered, but she shed no tears.
Defense attorneys Mark Levitt and Susan Smith bent down to speak with her, appearing to offer consoling words and to explain what happens next. The somber family waited until the courtroom thinned out before leaving, staring straight ahead as they passed a throng of reporters.
Spectators in the packed courtroom obeyed Judge Vincent Gaughan's warning against any outbursts. As for Degorski, 37, he appeared nervous but otherwise did not outwardly react before being led back to his jail cell.
"We're obviously deeply disappointed but continue to respect the work this jury has done," lead defense attorney Mark Levitt said. "We'll continue to fight on."
Added Cook County State's Attorney Anita Alvarez: "As you know, this case is not over. I'm very proud of the hard work this team (of prosecutors) has done. It's been a long road."
Palatine police Chief John Koziol, citing the judge's gag order, declined to comment. But the jury's verdict appears to vindicate police work that had been subjected to intense public criticism. Koziol and Palatine Cmdr. William King, who testified that Degorski confessed to him in May 2002, reacted to the verdict with smiles and later embraced prosecutors.
Family members on both sides declined to comment after Gaughan admonished them in no uncertain terms not to talk with the media or he would bar them from testifying during future phases of the trial.
The verdict marks the beginning of the end of a trial that got under way more than four weeks ago and has included more than 300 exhibits and some 60 witnesses. The jury of six men and six women will next consider whether Degorski is eligible for the death penalty based on certain statutory factors. His co-defendant, Juan Luna, was convicted of the murders in 2007 and sentenced to life without parole after one lone juror voted to spare his life.
The murders remained unsolved for more than nine years until Degorski's former girlfriend Anne Lockett, now Anne Lockett England, came forward to say he and Luna admitted to her what they had done, sharing details that had not been made public. Eileen Bakalla, another Degorski high school friend, told a similar story incriminating the two men after police confronted her. Both women testified during the trial.
Authorities linked Luna to the crime scene after matching his DNA to the remains of a chicken dinner and his palm print to a discarded napkin found in an otherwise empty garbage bag inside the restaurant. They also had a 45-minute videotaped confession in which Luna detailed how the murders unfolded.
The prosecution's evidence against Degorski was largely circumstantial. No DNA or fingerprints tied him to the scene, and the prosecution never played for the jury Degorski's five-minute videotaped confession in which they say he admitted killing two of the victims.
Yet all of the puzzle pieces fit convincingly for Degorski's jury.
Prosecutors say Degorski gave the same damning, detailed account to England and Bakalla in 1993 as he gave to King and former Assistant State's Attorney Michael McHale - now a Cook County judge - in 2002. He described using a wedge to block the exit, wearing gloves to avoid leaving fingerprints, herding the employees into the back and later mopping up the scene.
Degorski also told McHale that he bought the murder weapon from an acquaintance and disposed of it by throwing it into the Fox River. The gun has never been found.
Prosecutor Thomas Biesty noted a half dozen witnesses who told the jury how Degorski implicated himself to them, revealing facts of the crime that had not been made public.
"As the blood of the victims and their life oozes out of them in the coolers, the defendants make their escape," Biesty said in his closing argument.
It was all about doing something big, Biesty said. "But what's the use of doing something big if you can't tell somebody?"
The defense team attacked the prosecution's case, saying that not one forensic scientist could link Degorski to the crime scene.
"Not one of them is able to place him at the restaurant, and the reason is simple: He was not there. He did not do it," Levitt said. "The prosecution has been scrambling. They can appeal to your emotions, because we all have emotions. They can appeal to your senses, but what they're lacking is evidence."
In the end, the testimony of prosecution witnesses proved sufficient to convince the jurors of Degorski's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Today, their work will resume at 11 a.m., as the testimony begins leading up to Degorski's sentencing. In the coming days, the prosecution will call witnesses to describe the brutality of the crime and its impact on the grieving families as paramount reasons to support execution.
To try to save his life, Degorski's attorneys will call his family members and others who'll describe a rough childhood and otherwise law-abiding life.
They'll likely try to paint Luna as the mastermind and Degorski as a more innocent tag-along - just the opposite of the image Luna's defense team portrayed.
Guilty: Judge warned family members not to speak publicly


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That's probably the most overused blog post title in December, but since this quick update is really just a handful of iPhone photos strung together, it IS all about the visuals of the season.
Above is our buffet, with a few Pinterest-inspired centerpieces that were easy and affordable. How awesome is Pinterest for party planning and inspiration?!
And I love our simple twig tree, bare except for a few felt ornaments courtesy of Ikea.
Tourtiere happened this week, many of them. I even turned some of the pie crust and filling into hand pies for party appetizers. They also work pretty great for Noah's school lunches.
I got my Christmas present early. Ahh. A fantastic new Le Creuset flagship store opened at my local shopping mall. It's the first of its kind in Quebec and I was fortunate enough to be invited to the press opening.
Thanks to a gift certificate, I choose a new kettle - the 1.7L Whistling Tea Kettle in Cherry red, to leave with me. It already looks right at home in my kitchen. Then again, most anything from that store would...
Homemade mincemeat also was chopped, simmered, and jarred this week. Tarts soon followed and it finally feels like Christmas.
This year my annual cookie swap may have topped all proceeding events, with sponsors, press, a successful fundraiser, and, of course, stacks of beautiful homemade cookies. Here's the recap on Simple Bites, and if you're in the Montreal area, watch CTV news at 6 on Sunday, December 11 for the story.
The first snow came and went, and hasn't been seen since. If feels a little odd as we're December already, but getting into the winter coat and boots isn't so easy with a six-month-pregnant belly, so I'm not wishing for snow just yet.
One of the most fun holiday treats this year has to be these Peppermint Marshmallow Kisses. We've been popping them into hot cocoa and our mouths! Come to think of it, there isn't a single one left.
To make them for yourself, take my basic marshmallow recipe and replace the vanilla with 1 teaspoon peppermint extract. Add a few drops of red food coloring but do not mix it in. Fill a pipping bag with a #12 tip (or your favorite) and pipe kisses onto a greased parchment paper. Sprinkle with crushed candy cane and allow to set for at least 6 hours. Dust with powdered sugar and store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
It just wouldn't be Christmas without gingerbread. We devoted a recent PED day of Noah's to making, rolling and baking nearly 10 dozen cookies. It was epic fun and they did a great job.
Noah (now 6) and Mateo (4 in Feb) are both such pros in the kitchen now. I actually really relied on them for cutting and rolling the dough while I took care of baking and cooling the cookies.
The next day we worked on frosting, that sweet, sticky task. My basic recipe for both dough and royal icing can be found here. Shaina's also just posed a fun tutorial on the many variations of the gingerbread cookie.
Snow falling on trees; these won't last long.
Stockings have been hung, and my current obsession with cardinals leaked onto our personalized felt Christmas stockings. Notice the pink one for Baby Girl?
Lastly, Pumpkin Challah has been made and frozen for toasting on Christmas morning or perhaps lending itself to French Toast.
What is Christmas looking like in your home?
Saturday, December 03, 2011
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas
15 comments:
- Isabelle said...
ok, I didn't even know that Le Creuset tea kettles existed. Now I want one too. :-)
I love reading your blog.
- Chocolate Shavings said...
The pumpkin challah looks delicious Aimee - happy holidays to you and your family!
- Cheri said...
Hmmm... I may just have to stop by your place for Christmas this year. Everything looks so warm and cozy! :) Unfortunately there won't be much decorating for us this year. But posts like this definitely get me into the Christmas spirit. Merry Christmas Aimee!
- Jennifer Jo said...
You are so far ahead of the game, Aimee---I'm impressed. And those peppermint marshmallows piqued my interest. Yum.
- Allison Anderson said...
You will love that kettle! I've had one for years (blue) and it makes the best tea :)
- Melissa said...
I love the felt ornaments. Merry Christmas!
- Heather Hands said...
Hello, I just stumbled upon your blog and I have been perusing your posts. I am also a fellow Canadian, but now living in Seattle. I absolutely adore Montreal, and I've told my husband that if we move back to Canada, it's got to be there. btw - what do you think of the Le Creuset kettle? I think I'm going to splurge. We have an awesome Le Creuset outlet store in Seattle. I got a wok for $140 originally $250. Anyways, just wanted to say that I like your blog.
- rental mobil said...
Nice article, thanks for the information.
- Rochelle said...
you've inspiried me to get my christmas butt in gear! Thanks
- Scattered Mom said...
You have been so busy! I was going to make meringue kisses, but I like your marshmallow ones better and will have to try them. And, I would be thrilled to visit a Le Creucet (sp?) store. One of the dishes was on my list too.
- Vivian @ EATandLOVE said...
The fact that your photos come from your iPhone did not keep them from being amazing! I think I will be making similar marshmallows for Valentine's day. thanks for the inspiration.
Oh Amy! I want to hear how did your Christmas go? Miss your posts!
- M.E. Miller said...
Hi Everyone, I am a graduate industrial design student looking for people to participate in social network. I created my network as a way to collect user generated research to aid in design development. My project is focused on finding ways to use design to improve the way we cook meals at home. I believe that when we work together, we become better problem-solvers and that social networks have the ability to aid in this interaction! Join my network at http://coactivedesignproject.n... !!! And spread the word! The more people that participate the more value it brings to the outcome of the design!!! Thanks!!!
M.E. Miller
- M.E. Miller said...
Hi Everyone, I am a graduate industrial design student looking for people to participate in social network. I created my network as a way to collect user generated research to aid in design development. My project is focused on finding ways to use design to improve the way we cook meals at home. I believe that when we work together, we become better problem-solvers and that social networks have the ability to aid in this interaction! Join my network at http://coactivedesignproject.n... !!! And spread the word! The more people that participate the more value it brings to the outcome of the design!!! Thanks!!!
M.E. Miller
- chelation therapy said...
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This video pretty much speaks for itself. There are just a couple of pointers though for those unaware of some of the Masonic terminology being used. In the video you hear Gordon Brown talking about bringing 'order out of chaos'. When translated this is a clear reference to the Masonic motto 'ordo ab chao' . As David Icke, rightly, indicates it's those behind the New World Order agenda that create the 'chaos' so that they can shape the 'order' to their benefit.
One other thing you may not spot or completely understand is the snigger Gordon Brown makes in response to the journalist in the press conference congratulating him on an 'illuminating speech'. There's no doubt that Brown is a Freemason, as you'll see in this video. His brother's a Mason and there's a history of it in the family. I think it's unlikely that Brown has risen high enough in the Secret Society network to consider himself a member of the 'Illuminati' but he knows all about being 'illuminated'.


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If you navigate to the Kona Welcome page and notice that the login-in button is missing from the top right corner of the page, please check to see if your page is zoomed in. In Chrome, for example, click the icon with the three stacked horizontal lines in the top right corner of the page. There is a zoom option; if it is set above 100%, your page is zoomed in. Lower the number until you see the log in button. Other menu options will also come into view.
The log in button on the welcome page is missing, how do I log in?
Have more questions? Submit a request
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About This Item
Women's PureBOOST X Running Shoes - adidas
Designed specifically for the ladies, the Women's adidas PureBOOST X Running Shoes are a cushy breath of fresh air for your hard-working feet. Built atop coveted Boost cushioning, these mile-hungry sneakers are sure to take your running to comfortable new levels.
Adaptable, light and fast, the female-designed and tested PureBOOST X boasts a detached upper and midsole at midfoot along with a Dynamic adaptive foot arch, providing a customized fit and feel. The Full-Foot Boost midsole offers energy return and shock absorption with every step, while the Stretch Web outsole adapts to a variety of surfaces and offers traction in key areas. Plus, the stretch TechFit upper reduces irritation and lets hard-working feet breathe.
Ladies, this Boost is for you. Lace up the adidas PureBOOST X Running Shoes and enjoy a comfortable, customized fit for the miles ahead.
- WEIGHT: 6.5 ounces
- CATEGORY: Neutral
- UPPER: Stretch TechFit mesh
- MIDSOLE: Full-foot Boost cushioning
- OUTSOLE: Stretch Web rubber with traction pattern


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With Harlem Shakes, flashmobs and planking you may think bizarre stunts in public are a relatively new phenomenon - but Perth's 'limp fallers' say their craze has been going for more than 50 years.
It might not be easy to work out when and where the modern day planking craze first began, but people attending a reunion in Perth next month to celebrate the "planking-of-the-1950s" are pretty sure they can pinpoint exactly where their art form started.
Limp falling, the art of falling to the ground almost unannounced in a public area, swept across many parts of the world in the 1950s and 60s.
It began in what was the Palace Hotel in the city's CBD according to limp faller Hugh Edwards.
Mr Edwards, who is now almost 79, said the practice was inspired by an accident at a house party of mostly journalists.
One of them fell somehow managed to fall through an asbestos wall and the image of him falling made people laugh.
"It was regarded with some amusement by those present, thus beginning limp falling," Mr Edwards said.
Those working within Perth's media began limp falling, especially while drinking at their regular, the Palace Hotel, to the bemusement of others around them.
"One person would say 'fall' and we'd all carefully put down our drinks so they didn't spill, then they'd go limp and drop to the ground," Mr Edwards said.
More people caught onto the idea of limp falling and began taking part.
As those involved, spread across the globe, so did the art of limp falling.
The practice caught on and began occurring in various places including a cross walk on St Georges Terrace and as far away as Buckingham Palace.
Mr Edwards said while he had not done any limp falling in recent years, he may do so for old times' sake when the limp fallers reunite.
"I'm 80 this year, so maybe just gently," he said.
Mr Edwards said while he wasn't exactly sure what planking was, it was probably a bit duller than limp falling.
"It looks a bit boring, just laying down," he said.
Original limp fallers and limp falling enthusiasts will reunite at an invite only event on March 15.
The son of original limp faller and Daily News cartoonist the late Paul Rigby will be installed as the new world president of the Limp Falling Association, a group which has been in hiatus for some time now.


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- Creative
- Animation
- Film Production
- Fine Art
- Graphic Design
- Illustration
- Music Production
- Photography
- UI/UX Design
- Writing
This class was very inspiring! It really helped me look at photographing food differently. If a take a photo of a drink, I usually think of photographing the finished product or all of the ingredients together. But Julie really made me think differently about this! I decided to photograph a combination of 2 of my morning green smoothies. The combination of cutting fruits and vegetables in different shapes and sizes, makes me want to make more collages! Even now as I'm uploading this, I'm noticing how I could have added more oranges sliced another way. This class really opened up my eyes in shooting smoothies differently, can't wait to take more photos in this style! Thanks Julie!
Feel free to give me pointers and critiques on here or instagram (http://instagram.com/maybeitsmaryam). Looking forward to connecting with all of you (@maybeitsmaryam)


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From all-creatures.org
Action Alerts
Moving people toward compassionate living
Your letters and calls do help!
|Originally Posted: 16 November 2009
Tell Johnson County and Kansas State Officials NO to Bow Hunting
Tell Johnson County and Kansas state officials NO to bow hunting. Bow hunting is a brutal method of killing deer, many who bleed to death. And, are you willing to risk your children or your companion animals being injured or killed in a "hunting accident"?
Kansas Governor Mark Parkinson
Kansas Dept of Wildlife Big Game Coordinator Lloyd Fox
Mike Hayden, Secretary of Wildlife and Parks
Johnson County Parks Director Michael Meadors
Johnson County Board of Commissioners BOCC:
The STAFF of Johnson County Board of Commissioners:
"My wife and I drive through the park nearly every evening and count the deer. Before the slaughter we would count over 100 deer. Last night, we counted six."
—quote from a Death Park patron to one of our activists at our protest on 11/14/09
After having annihilated most of the deer in Death Park (313 in 3 days only days ago, as Anthony DeNicola and JOCO officials proudly proclaimed), their bloodlust remains unsatiated! Now they want to move on to "phase II" of the deer "democide" and bow hunt the deer in Death Park to extinction.
"Are you willing to risk a hunting accident? Risk one of your children, or your pets? Tell Johnson County (and state officials) NO to bow hunting!"
Thank you for everything you do for animals!


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Feb 13, 2014
Sale vs Saracens - Preview
Saracens travel up the AJ Bell Stadium, Salford to take on a rejuvenated Sale Sharks team in round 14 of the Aviva Premiership. Henry Fraser previews Friday's opponents.
Sale Sharks - Form guide, won 7, lost 6.
It's amazing how much a team can turn around from one season the next. It was this time last year that Sale were hitting a good run of form to save their season and show their true ability. An end of season run seems to be a recurring thing for the Sharks. If they hit that form again this season, they will push any team.
Currently sitting sixth in the league they will be looking to push on - they are only two points behind the Tigers and Quins.
One of the reasons for the Sharks good league position is their fantastic home form. They have won five of their seven home games including two with four try bonus points. They will definitely be very tough to beat and Sarries will have to be at the top of their game if they are going to win.
They have a strong yet mobile front row that will carry a lot. The second rows are tireless workers that will ruck hard trying to create fast ball. If Seymour and Braid are both playing in the back row Sarries will have to be very quick to support each other as if the flankers are given a sniff they will turn the ball over or at least slow the ball down.
The back line poses threats in all areas. Dwayne Peel offers a running threat around the breakdown and can take the pressure of Cipriani letting him run the game with his creative flair. He must be shut down early or he can take the game away from a team. The centres provide a lot of power that can break through any defence and release the fast outside backs including the experience of Mark Cueto.
Sale like to start games very strong, they really come out of the blocks firing. Nearly two thirds of their tries have come in the first half with a lot of tries scored by the back row, centres and wingers. Saracens will have to keep things very tight early on and not let the Sharks get an early lead.
There is no doubt that Sale Sharks will provide a huge test on Friday. Sarries will be looking to get a win after back to back losses. It's shaping up to be a great game.
Previous meetings
30/11/13 Saracens 24 - 19 Sale Sharks
10/3/13 Sale Sharks 21 - 15 Saracens
6/1/13 Saracens 32 - 12 Sale Sharks
Players to watch
Rob Miller - He has found his form that got rugby fans talking and excited about his future. Miller's all round ability is outstanding and there's few things he can't do. He's great under the high ball with speed that is as quick as anyone. This speed gives him great counter attacking abilities that will punish any wayward kicks or poor kick chases. His armoury also includes long range kicks at goal which can punish a team from well inside his own half.


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Two Posts: One on Ideas, One on Violence in Books
July 23, 2012
The Summer 2012 THIEFTAKER Blog Tour takes me back to familiar ground today. I have two posts up. The first, my usual Monday Magical Words post, can be found at http://magicalwords.net, the group blog on the business and craft of writing fantasy that I maintain with fellow authors Faith Hunter, Misty Massey, Kalayna Price, C.E. Murphy, and A.J. Hartley. The post is called "On Creativity and Writing: Making the Most of Ideas, part I," and it's the first post in a series about dealing effectively with new book ideas. The second post can be found at http://www.sfnovelists.com, the group blog on speculative fiction that I maintain along with a group of over one hundred published authors of fantasy and science fiction. It is called "A Father and Writer Looks At Violence In His Books," and it is about how we decide what's appropriate for your readers. I hope you enjoy both posts.


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The band is made up of two brothers, Paul and Joe, who sing as two Harry Potters--- one from year seven, one from year four. Every song is related to the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling. Their fans revel in their stick-it-to-the-man lyrics, charismatic performances, and clever puns. Some girls think they're really cute too.
In December, Justin (my fellow totesumbrella-er) and I invaded Massachusetts to see the Yule Ball, featuring the Potters, Draco and the Malfoys, The Whomping Willow, Uncle Monsterface/Cousin Wizardface, Stubby Boardman, Tristan da Cunha, Jason Anderson, and a breakdancing Dumbledore. Not only did we encounter 20,000 tweens, but we also had a rockin' good time. Wizard-rockin' that is! They have tons of upcoming shows, so you should definitely check them out. They even have a show with relapse and You Ain't No Picasso favorite, Pants Yell!
Luckily, my connection to Harry and the Potters has not faded entirely. While there's little chance of them coming back to Wesleyan this semester, Paul was gracious enough to talk to us about several topics, including (but not limited to) hot-dog jamborees, The Great Lakes, the new bookmobile, Book 7, toenails, and even Bruce Springsteen. He even takes time to talk smack about He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Blogged. Before you read, feel free to take a listen...
HARRY AND THE POTTERS- Wizard Chess
HARRY AND THE POTTERS- The Human Hosepipe
HARRY AND THE POTTERS- The Weapon
(BUY the music, CHECK the MySpace)
PAUL: Just for you Joe John, I'll give you the pre-shed version of our beginnings, starting with the until-now unrevealed journal entry that started it all. I usually don't keep journals but apparently, I wrote in this one sporadically during The Year 2000. I just found it when I moved a few months ago. This entry was dated August 8th, 2000 (which is nearly 2 full years before Joe and I even wrote any songs).
The entry starts with a few lyrics:
Phoenix ____ bands in town
What's over on Lansdowne? (reader note: Lansdowne is a crappy strip of clubs in Boston)
Axis and Avalon are filled with techno jerks (note: Axis and Avalon are clubs on the aforementioned strip)
But Harry and the Potters are playing at Hogwarts (and there was a note to myself to rhyme jerks with Hogwarts...very clever, eh?)
And then, I had the band line-up listed as:
Harry Potter - vocals
Ron Weasley - guitar
Hermione Granger - bass
Hagrid - drums
So I guess I originally envisioned Harry as a straight-up frontman. I tried convincing some friends to start this band with me, but they were all very serious indie rockers who apparently look down upon jokey bands. Whatever. I had always wanted to start a band with my brother, Joe (he is 8 years younger), and we thought this would be a good one since he looked like Harry. But I didn't want to have to be Ron or someone lame, so we both decided to be Harry. I mean, if you're going to start a ridiculous band like this, how much more ridiculous is it to tell your audience that you are the same person, but from different points in time?
JJ: Do you ever have serious trouble with referring to yourself as Harry and Harry vs. Paul and Joe?
PAUL: Not really. I'm pretty proud of the fact that we've never really broken character on stage.
JJ: So I read that you played a hot dog jamboree at some point?
PAUL: Yes. I mean, do you really think we would have turned that down? It definitely wasn't one of our finer shows. No one really seemed to care too much that we were playing. But we did get free hot dogs. But they weren't that great either. See review.
JJ: What was your favorite show you ever played?
PAUL: The Yule Ball. You were there. You know how much it ruled. Runners up include: outside the Boston Public Library last June, dragging all our gear 1/4 mile and playing a totally illegal show on a pedestrian bridge in Austin, TX, and a doughnut shop in Portland, OR.
JJ: How was playing a small show at Wesleyan in 2004?
PAUL: We had an awesome time at Wesleyan. We really wanted to bring the wizard/muggle dance party that night and everyone was up to the challenge! We all danced so hard! This also still stands, I believe, as the only time we've ever performed the Bertie Botts song live (with 2 extra verses). Joe and I practiced it in the car the whole way there. I think we lost the lyrics though.
JJ: On that note, what are your favorite flavors of Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Beans?
PAUL: Joe likes soap. I think they're all pretty gross, but I'll answer this question in character and say BACON!
JJ: Are you still hating on Hufflepuff!?! (I'm still proud, even if I'm useless)
PAUL: It's not your fault man. It's Rowling's. Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw are both weak. We just don't get enough in the books to know what they're really all about. And come on, "Good Hufflepuff, she took the rest" (Book 5 Sorting Hat song) is pretty damn hilarious. Sorry dude.
JJ: A mtv.com interview, a rave review from pitchfork...Does any of this ever go to your head!?! Did you expect to be such a big deal?
PAUL: Yeah, it definitely goes to my head. Now every time I come up with a silly idea, I figure that it's probably some genius idea that everyone on the whole planet is going to love. I'm planning to bottle water from each of the 5 Great Lakes and sell it in a six pack (the sixth bottle will be from the Great Salt Lake). And then people will buy the six-pack and have tasting parties. You know, blindfolded and stuff. Guess the lake! I drank some Michigan last summer. It was pretty good. Don't steal this idea anyone. It's mine!
JJ: I just got friended on MySpace by The Remus Lupins. What's with all these spin-off bands? How did Draco and the Malfoys come about?
PAUL: I think it's awesome. I mean, when Joe and I were starting our and people would ask us what kind of music we played, we would jokingly say "Wizard Rock." And now it's teetering on the verge of being a legitimate genre. Or maybe I just have an insiders perspective on the whole thing. I'm waiting for the day when it becomes an genre option for Myspace bands. You know, we're Indie/Punk/Wizard Rock!
Draco and the Malfoys are two guys from Woonsocket, RI. Their friend Matt (the Whomping Willows) invited us to play a house party. So we played and then made friends with Brad and Brian (the Malfoy brothers), and then Matt invited us for another house party and Brad and Brian wrote a bunch of songs from Draco's perspective that pretty much trashed Harry and his friends. It was pretty hilarious. And dirty too. I'm pretty sure the first line of their "Potions" song was not "You messed up in potions yesterday," but "You somethingelse-ed up in potions yesterday." I got them to clean up the language a bit for the kiddies and now we play together fairly frequently.
JJ: Any new bands that you think we should keep our eyes on?
PAUL: You talking wizard bands or bands in general? We love the Malfoys and the Whomping Willows. I'm also a fan of the Quidditch Pitch Incident, the Giant Squid, Ron and the Weasleys. They've all got style, you know?
JJ: Can wizard rock ever be stopped?
PAUL: Not at this point! It's out of control! Voldemort doesn't have nearly enough death eaters to lay the smack down. He cries himself to sleep at night knowing he is helpless against the power of wizard rock.
JJ: Someone on a message board was looking for some of your unreleased material ("Rocking At Hogwarts", the Bertie Botts song, etc.)...Where can fans get recordings of these songs?
PAUL: It's pretty funny. All those songs are really short and we just recorded them one afternoon and compressed them so we could fit them on a 1.44 MB floppy disc. We then put a stamp on the disc and would mail them out to people who wrote us letters or sent us stuff in the mail. I think I only sent out about 20 of them, but somehow they ended up on the file-sharing networks. So I guess check those file-sharing networks or something.
JJ: Have you ever received any strange or creepy fan-mail?
PAUL: We get all sorts of cool stuff. Not too much on the creepy end. Once I got some toenails (washed). And sometimes letters are so heavily perfumed that I can't really stand to be around them for too long. On the plus side though, we've gotten some pretty good cookies and other various treats. Our mom still freaks out, in the "There are razor blades in your Halloween candy" sort of way when we eat that stuff.
JJ: Speaking of fandom, I noticed that you are a huge Springsteen fan?
PAUL: Hell yeah. As a kid, he was one of the few things my dad listened to and I remember just being mesmerized by the picture on the back of "the Wild, the Innocent, the E Street Shuffle" album. Everyone was so dirty! I'm not sure the music totally hit me until I got older.
I guess since my bio page is so Springsteen crazy, one of the writers from Backstreets (a Springsteen fanzine that's been going for 25 years) actually did an interview with me for the latest issue. It was that coolest interview I ever did. The questions were like "Which house would Springsteen be in at Hogwarts?" and "Match E Street Band members to Hogwarts professors." It ruled!
JJ: Can you tell us anything about the new songs? When is the new album coming out?
PAUL: Oh man, the new songs rule! I am so psyched about them. They are HUGE! WE just finished tracking 5 songs this weekend. We did three songs for our "Scarred for Life" 7." This stuff is insane. It's not funny at all (except on a conceptual level). It's really heavy. Programmed drums, real drums, tons of grinding synths and screaming. These were just some songs we had to get out of our system. One is about Snape (from Harry's perspective obviously) and the other two are called "Sectum Sempra" and "Horcruxes" so that gives you a bit of an idea of the thematic weight we're dealing with. The other two songs we tracked are for a split 7" with the Zambonis (an all hockey band). We're both fans of theme-rock so it made total sense for us to collaborate and each write songs about Harry Potter and hockey. So our half of the record will have "The Forbidden Forest Hockey League" and "The Hogwarts Tonsil Hockey Team." It's good stuff. Hopefully we'll get the 7"s out in March or April, followed by the full-length in May.
But yeah, the full-length should be some classic Potters stuff. You know, make fun of Ron for the whole Lavender Brown thing, make fun of Ron for the whole love potion thing, make fun of Hermione for being rather pathetic about the whole Ron thing. And then we've got a whole bunch of anthemic songs that you pump your fist to and say, "NO WAY will Voldemort win! We will be victorious!"
JJ: So what's the deal with the new Pottermobile?
PAUL: It is big! Luxurious in that Econoline sense of the word. It's beige, but we hope to christen it with a scar when we hit Chicago in March. It is the Book-Rock Mobile! Watch for it at libraries across the country this summer!
JJ: If you met J.K. Rowling, how would you expect the conversation to go?
PAUL: She would come up to us after the show. She would be all sweaty because she danced so hard. We'd give each other hugs. She'd tell us we rocked and we'd tell her that she's awesome.
JJ: What were your feelings on Book 6?
PAUL: Loved it. Best book yet. Tons of Dumbledore action. Steamy teen romance. Actually, I probably could have done without that stuff, but it makes for good songs.
JJ: Any predictions for Book 7?
PAUL: Harry steals a timeturner and travels back in time to Year 4 and starts a band with himself! It could happen!
Joe John


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