text:
Keep your figure, blow your budget
30 Nov 2012 00:34 | Matthew Burbidge
Croft & Co, a cupboard of a shop on Tyrone Avenue, in Johannesburg's Parkview, used to sell expensive men's swimwear, Montblanc pens and Cuban cigars. What with the downturn, it has lost the swimsuits, kept the cigars and started serving food.
The portions are small, so it's best to eat there before, or after, having lunch. Or perhaps they're just keeping watch over their customers' waistlines — a man was picking at a fruit salad during a recent lunchtime visit.
Their version of a Caesar salad has cos lettuce, shaved parmesan, croutons, white anchovies and a boiled egg. For R60, it is criminally small — although it is very tasty — and the croutons were not freshly fried.
But the place has been open for only three weeks and owner Grant Ravenscroft says they're still feeling their way. He has owned a string of restaurants, including Biscotti and Bites, in Greenside, as well Scusi next door to Croft & Co.
The chef, Anne Rich (and Ravenscroft's sister), marinades the fillet steak in olive oil, parsley, thyme and basil.
A compromise has been made on garlic, because many of their clientele have to return to work after lunch. It is served on soft bolo de caco bread, with caramelised onion, mayonnaise and grain mustard.
Another compromise, a successful one, has been made with the dressing of the Caesar salad, because of Rich's mistrust of fresh egg yolks. In it is anchovy, parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce and a secret ingredient — a commercial mayonnaise.
Their most popular sandwich is the prosciutto and fontina, with sundried tomato mustard (R45).
They serve excellent Lavazza coffee — a dark and nutty 100% Arabica variety called Rotondo.
Breakfast runs to scrambled eggs, with cream (R30) or tomato (R40), and with Peter James Smith's Lincolnshire sausages flavoured with thyme and sage (R65). There's also fruit salad (R30) and yogurt and muesli.
But this really is the place to go if you want to buy, and smoke, cigars. On a recent afternoon, a portly man was sitting out on the tiny deck at the back, thumb and forefinger curled around a Romeo y Julieta Wide Churchill. The cigar is indeed wide and a pungent thread of smoke curled from the stub. Ravenscroft has opened a box of these, and you can buy them, kept in a humidor, for R140 a stick.
He says unapologetically there are bigger problems than smoking and, although there has been plenty of talk about smoking laws, none has been promulgated. Besides, if someone does complain, he can always close the door.
Cigars account for about 40% of his business and "serious smokers" will go through a box, or more, in a week. A box of 10 Partagas Serie D No 4 sell for R1 300 and 10 Cohiba Behike 56 are R4 200, which, believe it or not, is a bargain.
66 Tyrone Avenue, Parkview. Tel: 0Smoking allowed: Cigars are the main course at Croft & Co in Parkview
but there is food on offer as well. Photo: Delwyn Verasamy
11 646 3634
View the original online publication here


text: Buckingham Elementary School Principal Roger Pacella recently received an American flag flown over the United States Capitol from the office of Congressman Andy Harris. Making the presentation is Charlotte Cathell, who presented the flag on behalf of the 2013 Caring for America Program of the Republican Women of Worcester County. RWWC donates a flag to a local school annually and requests can be made by contacting email@example.com, or by calling 410-641-7391. Submitted Photos

subset: commoncrawl


text:
French artist JR wowed Rio visitors during the Olympics with his larger-than-life art installations throughout the city. JR is one of three artists in residence for the Rio Games, a first in Olympic history.
According to the artist's website, JR uses athletes "whose identity is blurred behind the 'perfect motion' from an instantly recognizable Olympic event: diving, the high jump and the swimming section of the triathlon."
JR's website describes the installations as black-and-white images on ultra-large scaffolds, "which themselves form an integral part of the installation, being the only things capable of supporting such large pictures. Each installation offers a plurality of viewpoints from both up close and far away."


text:
" Brand: Slanket / Misc House Type: Throw "
* Prices may differ from that shown
My boyfriend bought me a 'slanket' a few years ago after we had both seen it on 30 Rock! At first I was a bit dubious as they had been pretty much made a joke on that tv show (and on others) and anyway I hate being constricted so what was wrong with just an old fashioned blanket I ask? Anyway I didn't want to hurt his feelings so I started to wear it. Almost 2 years later and I still do (and we are still together despite his terrible choice in birthday prezzies!)
A slanket is essentially a blanket with built-in sleeves and a hole for your head. Like any good blanket it is made of soft fleecy type material. I have washed this and it had bobbled slightly over the years but it is still mostly soft and nice to touch and wear.
My slanket is blue and I thought all were - but apparently they come in a range of colours!
It does keep me very warm especially recently when we had a problem with our heating at the end of November and we were all wearing layers because the house was so cold. I swear by the slanket after that little experiment!!! The one thing it doesn't do is keep my feet warm but I hear there are types with a sewn in foot pocket so I will tell the hubby about that in future!! Fingers crossed for Xmas, eh??
A quick look on Amazon shows that they are around £10. Totally recommended by me!! :)
=The Slanket=
Our deep dark secret, I have a Slanket for me, and a Tatty Teddy design for little Miss Thrifty, although by now it is more ankle length now.
The best way I can describe a slanket is a blanket that has sleeves and you wear like a back to front dressing gown, but without the fastening.
=Cold Nights=
They are brilliant for cold nights on the settee watching TV, as you are literally covered from head to toe.
There are many versions of a slanket, and these come in all colours from pinl, green, blue, patterned, kids varieties include Tatty Ted and Hello Kitty.
Some even come with pockets that you can put your remote control in.
=Not ideal for moving in=
These are not designed for moving around in, as they are not secured around you, so if you need the toilet, want a cup of tea do all this before you get comfy in the slanket, or if you are prone to moving then it is best to leave your arms out of the slanket and using it as a traditional blanket.
=Prices and Availability=
My daughters was Tatty Teddy, I brought hers from Argos for Christmas 2012, and paid £15 for it.
Mine is a copy of a slanket and I paid £6 for mine.
=Comfortable factor=
When I brought mine it was originally meant as a Christmas present but I had put it up so safe when it came to wrapping the present I had no idea where I put it, It was only in summer clean out that I found it in the bedside draw. So I ended up keeping it.
With this cold weather we had, I needed the slanket, although we have central heating which warms up the rooms, once it hits a certain temperature it cuts out, and our fire wasn't working, so it was give in and get the slanket,
It was comfortable, I will be honest and say at first I felt an idiot, but it was comfortable, it was warm in all the right places, and I could fidget and still be warm. That slanket was lived in for most of this winter.
=Would I recommend=
I would highly recommend the slankets to everyone, they are amazing, best present I forgot to give.
===The Product===
Size: 60" x 95".
Large fleece blanket with sleeves.
100% polyester.
Machine washable at 30 degrees.
Adult - £17.95.
Kids (Size:44"x 66" ) - £14.95.
Siamese (double - :120" x 95") - £29.95
(Delivery £3.49).
===What Are Slankets?===
Firstly let me explain what a slanket is. It was invented by a student in America who was freezing cold in digs and adapted a blanket to wrap around himself by adding sleeves. It is not that old and only originated in around 2008/9.
Over the years it has been modified and adapted.
The idea is that the large piece of fleece has two large and long sleeves, but you do not wear it like a dressing gown but put it on 'back to front' when you are already sitting or lying down and then wrap it around yourself.
Over time the size has increased and it also has a pocket in the front for your TV remote control. Some also now have a pouch in the bottom for you to tuck your feet into.
The slankets are so long you cannot walk in them, but the extra length and width mean that they will amply cover you when sitting in a chair or lying on the settee.
I first saw these on QVC but they are now available very widely on Amazon and ebay - as well as QVC, the official Slanket site and many other websites.
Beware that not all the ones on sale will be the official 'Slanktet' product, they may be much cheaper, but also they might scrimp on the fabric and be much smaller and thinner - so check the sizes if you can.
These fleece products now come in many colours and loads of different prints and patterns and they also come in a smaller size for children. Slanket also do a double version but the ordinary one is large enough for two to snuggle under.
===My Opinion===
After seeing these online I decided to buy some for our family for Christmas 2011. We had been having problems with our heating and the weather was so bad with snow before Christmas that I thought these would be a great buy. So it was that both my sons and my husband had their own blue versions. Of course mum is always the last to get anything and I did buy myself a child's one on the sale after Christmas - whereas actually I want a leopard print one!
Well do they work and are they used?
Well yes and yes. There is enough material to wrap right over the front of you with plenty of fabric to spare. My son would use his while sitting by the pc and also when lying on the bed. The fabric is so large it can be spread over the bed as an additional layer when not in use.
With my husband it was just a fun gift as I did not expect him to use it much in the living room - but he does!
We have now gone to oil central heating but with the costs we try and wrap up and not use the heating too much. So come 5 om in the winter hubby would wrap his slanket around himself in the easy chair - and he never minds if visitors call and he is still wearing it! It must work for him or he would never bother to use it.
With mine it is smaller than the others but I have found it useful as a layer on my bed, and when cold and I am sitting up watching TV I will often slip my arms into it and it then keeps me cosy right up to my neck.
I think these are a great way to keep warm and to save a bit on the heating costs. These are much more practical and useful than a onsie.
Do not try and move about in one or you could end up tripping over the bottom as they are long.
They wash and dry easily and are the sort of gift you could give anyone.
===Star Rating===
5 stars.
===Would I Recommend?===
These blankets with sleeves are a practical way of keeping warm without the need to put the heating on. They are lovely and cosy and you can snuggle up in an armchair or sofa. It is huge which is helpful if your 6 foot tall not so much if your 5 foot nothing.
The slanket comes in a wide variety of colours and designs which is being constantly added to. It can be worn anyway you like with the opening at the front or back, though I think the opening is supposed to be at the back. The sleeves allow you the freedom of drinking, using remote etc without the hassle caused by a blanket. Apart from in summer this gets used daily, washed frequently and still looks like new after 4 years.
It is not recommended that you walk while wearing one of these, not a problem for me as I would never succeed due to the length. . I have a love hate relationship with my slanket its looks way worse than a dressing gown but is warmer, not something I would be happy wearing if visitors were coming. On a positive note I think they are better 'looking' that a onesie which is the latest craze.
The slanket can be bought for 17.95 from the original site. There are lots of cheaper copies appearing which may or may not work/wear as well. They also do a children's version which may be better for me!
When I first saw these advertised on television I thought the world had gone mad. Then I wanted one.
A slanket, for those who don't know, is basically a blanket with sleeves. Everyone understands the problem of sitting on the sofa all warm and snug under a blanket when you get an itchy nose - not so warm anymore after you have let all the heat out freeing you arm! This is where the slant is unique, your hands are still free to do whatever needed but you keep the heat in around your body. If your hands get cold simply tuck your arms in or stretch the sleeves over your hands as they are generous in length anyway.
These have come down in price considerably since they were first released a couple of years ago. I bought my mum a red wine coloured Slanket as her house takes ages to heat up, not to mention it's very costly! I have seen these on offer in places for around £8 whereas they were over £20 initially.
They are made of a lovely fleecy material which works well at keeping the heat in and they are long at the front so will easily cover your feet too. It's very cosy being wrapped up in one of these at night with all the candles burning in the living room.
These have always been received well as gifts from me in the past, I have only ever given them to women but I do know that they sell a larger men's version.
These are worth it in my opinion, especially at the prices you can get them for now. Beware of cheap knock offs you can pick up at the car boot, these are not as good quality or as warm and do not wash very well.
Thanks for reading!
There is nothing like getting all snuggled down on the sofa on a cold winter's night with a Slanket. The translation, for those that don't know, is a sleeved blanket. That's right - a blanket with sleeves! Sleeves - what? The world must have really gone mad. I thought so when someone gave me this novelty gift. A cold winter and a boiler breakdown later and I discovered a slight shift in my opinion.
This blanket resembles a back to front gown - I'm thinking of those things they make you put on at the hairdressers only this is soft fleece and huge. At the hairdressers I always get a bit confused over which way to put the thing on. This is brings the same trouble only on a bigger scale.
The Slanket will cover you from neck to toe. If you are six foot plus I should think this is ideal. If you are petite you might need a helping hand to find your way back out!
This is machine washable and available in a variety of colours. I have blue but I've seen them in pink, brown and red too. Despite, the giant size it is surprisingly lightweight. The main advantage, of this, over a normal blanket is that the hands are free to pick up a remote control or reach out for the all-important popcorn. Some even have pocket in for things like remote controls - crazy but true.
The Slanket looks ridiculous. Those who have no sense of pride will happily put it on in front of other people as if they are wearing some wonderful fashion item of clothing. In my opinion, you look quite foolish and really, you shouldn't do it. What if you were to die wearing it? Think of the humiliation you'd put your family through!
The Slanket, in my opinion, isn't about looking good though I still strongly advise only wearing in the company of your very nearest and dearest.
Short or medium length people I warn you not to walk around the house in this as that's probably impossible to accomplish safely without the long length tripping you up. So unless you fancy crawling to the toilet or going into the kitchen for something; I strongly urge you to make sure you have an emergency stockpile of food and drink within arm's length of you. Go to the toilet before a session with the blanket. People with bladder weakness, be warned, it is a bother to get your arms out of the sleeves so it's probably best to drape it over you as you would do with an ordinary blanket.
I love owning the Slanket because of one very awful winter's day when the gas boiler stopped working. It was freezing. I couldn't do anything because I was too cold. I remembered the Slanket and oh, joy of joy,s I stopped shivering and within a few minutes I was hot. The Slanket is so thick and warm but it can get too hot and then you have to take it off to cool down and then get back in which can be irksome. There is a bit of static especially when getting out of it again. Check your hair in the mirror after Slanket wearing. I had to wait five days for the boiler repair man. I did not allow him to see me in this Slanket though I was almost tempted. I did check my hair in the mirror for static before opening the door ad he had to wait for me to get out of the blanket but thank goodness for my Slanket because it helped remove some of the misery of being without gas central heating.
I can now offer you this money saving tip. Buy a Slanket for each member of your household, keep the family as couch potatoes, leave the heating off, and hey presto, you've saved a fortune in heating bills. The only possible side-effects are laziness, sleepiness, weight gain or loss (depending on if you remembered the emergency supplies), pets getting stuck inside, and toileting problems if used for excessive durations.
Four stars.
I got a slanket a few years ago for xmas. They come in a range of colours - mine is green to match the colour scheme of my house! The fabric is very similar to a fleecy blanket (100% polyester).
You can tumble dry it which is useful as it is quite large, though these types of fabrics do dry very quickly so having a tumble dryer is by no means essential.
It is essentially like a long dressing gown that you wear backwards. It does allow you to keep your arms warm while reading a book or changing channel while sat on the sofa, whereas with a blanket you would have to take your arms out of the blanket to do those things. However, wearing a dressing gown with a blanket of your knee does have the same effect. Also, there is no practical way to get up and go to the loo/make a cup of tea with a slanket (well I've not mastered the art anyway) however this is far more practical in a dressing gown.
Mine has been used on and off over the last few years, obviously more in winter months but lately the slanket novelty has worn off and I just tend to throw it over me and use it as a normal blanket. Mine is also developing a hole which is a shame but doesn't really impair the use of the product.
It is a nice christmassy gift for those who like to keep warm and I've seen them in stores like The Works for a reasonable price, but in my mind I'm still loyal to the old fashioned dressing gown.
I was given one of these as a sort of joke present, I do like to get wrapped up on the sofa in my PJs and with a blanket, even though Im 29!
Now I have to say that before I start, it is very nice and cosy, it feels like a fleecy blanket, its very large and fits all the way around me and does keep me warm and stops the heating from going on. It is however the most unsexy piece of material that I own.
It claims to eliminate the need to 'fuss' with a blanket, what kind of fussing that is I dont know. Perhaps removing your arms from a standard blanket to reach for a cup of tea or something else warming. For this reason they have made arms in the slanket. They enable you to keep your hands free for all sorts of activities.
If you then stand up with the slanket on it looks like your wearing a very large furry long sleeved dress. It doesnt do up around the back so when you stand up you get cold and then it needs to be wrapped around like a normal blanket!
I have since given it to my gran as she genuinely finds it useful to keep warm and it helps keep her energy bill down.
If you actually would like to buy one of these instead of a regular blanket they cost between £5 -£25 on amazon, and you can get a variety of colours including cowprint! It could make a fantastic winter dressing up outfit as it would keep you warm on a night out!
If you are just interested in keeping warm then a throw from primark will do the same job.
I'm sure this seemed like a good idea at the time - some bright spark obviously figured that between blankets and clothes, there was a gap in the market that was crying out for innovation. Seeing what was created to fill that gap, I'm pretty sure it never existed in the first place.
As modelled by the unreasonably jolly young lady above, the Slanket is 90% blanket, with the addition of a couple of sleeves through which to stick your arms. As the nights get darker and the icy grip of winter marches ever closer, you'll want to stay snuggly-warm, and this might seem like a tempting idea. Dismiss that notion. Unless you're searching for a low-budget Jabba the Hut costume, nothing good will come from buying a Slanket - or at least nothing a regular blanket couldn't provide.
For me, this is a classic example of an invention that exists purely for its own sake. The blurb above cites "constant fussing with a blanket" as the kind of thing that you'll be blissfully rid of once you're a Slanket owner - but when did you last struggle to use a blanket? Personally, I've always found them to be pretty intuitive devices. I certainly can't remember the last time I thought "Ah! The darned complexity of trying to wrap this infernal blanket around me! What's supposed to go where? If only there was a simpler way!"
Basically, I don't see the point - if you want a jumper, you'll wear one. Ditto a blanket.
In its defence, it's an adequate - if expensive - blanket. It's made of a nice soft fleece, and does a pretty competent insulating job. Ultimately, it's a gimmick. Go buy one for someone if you've no other ideas for presents - that's pretty much all they exist for.
Last year as we were coming up to winter I had took my Grandma shopping as I do every week, I was looking at the fleece blankets on Asda and when my Grandma enquired what I wanted a fleece for and I told her for when I was sat on a cold night she offered me a slanket that she had.
A slanket is called so as it is a blanket with sleeves, you can buy these all over now and they come in a wide range of colours. I bought my daughter a Peppa Pig slanket for £5 which I thought was a great price but then you can pay easily up to £30 which I think is a ridiculous price.
My slanket is navy blue in colour which actually is a pretty good colour as it doesn't end up looking grubby very easily but if I had bought it myself I would have gone for one of the brighter colours.
The slanket came packaged in a plastic wrapped which was easy to pull open and it simply had a picture on the front of a woman on a sofa wrapped in her slanket.
The slanket is a slightly rectangular fleece which feels lovely and soft, it has 2 arms attached to it where obviously you put your arms in, I find the arms on mine are a little too long and can get in the way if I'm trying to do something. My slanket has a pocket on the front of it like a kangaroo and if you fold it correctly the slanket will fully fold into the pocket so it looks neat for storage although I have never managed to fold it in the right way. My slanket also has two extra pieces of triangular material on the corners where you can put your feet in, I had actually been using the slanket for quite some time before I noticed these as I usually sit crossed legged on the sofa but find they are actually nice little pockets to help keep my feet warm.
I find the slanket a god send as my hubby will be sat in a t-shirt when I'm freezing so it helps to keep me warm without him feeling like he's being boiled. The slanket can be washed at 40 degrees and it washes really well without any bobbling, being made of fleece it also dries very quickly which is great as I don't have to be without it too long. I love my slanket, I wouldn't pay £30 for one but you can get them more cheaply so make sure you shop around.
As I type this I am covered up and cosy in my slanket. From toes to chin I am covered in a thick fleecey blanket with sleeves, and just my hands are sticking out. The fabric is piled up around my feet, making my toes extra toasty. When I finish typing I will shake the sleeves down and cover my hands so that they too can be cosy. The size and warmth of this item make it great, the sleeves are the icing on the cake.
The slanket measures 152.4cm (width) x 241.3cm (height) which means that even if you are over 6 foot tall, you would still be able to be covered head to toe by the slanket and have room to spare. I am 5' 4" so there is a lot of spare fabric here. It could pose something of a tripping hazard, and if you are just starting out in the venture of slanket-wearing then you should take care, and consider removing or stepping out of the slanket in order to go and get a cuppa or tasty snack. Once you become more proficient with slanket wearing, you can wear it whilst on such manoeuvres. My technique is to simply gather the material from around my feet and drape it over one arm.
A downside of the slanket is that if you lean forward, as I am now, your back may become chilly. I would not want you to think I am indulging in nude slanket-wearing, it's just my t-shirt is a little thin.
The slanket takes up a lot of room in the washing machine, but it does go in. As it requires a cold wash on a gentle cycle you may wish to give it the honour of a wash on its own. My preference is to wait until both of my slankets need cleaning. I have two. And a washing machine with large load capacity. The slankets can be tumble dried on low, and the label tells you not to iron. Bliss.
Slankets are difficult to fold neatly, and make the room look permanently untidy if they are left lying round when not in use. To that end I have positioned a large wicker basket at one end of the sofa, and the slankets are housed within it. They make occasional outings during the summer months, so are never totally packed away. However, if you wanted to pack them away, it would be a good idea to keep the original packaging which is a thick, clear plastic zip-up bag.
A great product all year round, but especially good on chilly winter evenings.
~ The Slanket ~
This is probably one of the least attractive items of 'clothing' I own. My hubby bought it for me as a present last Christmas because he is sick and tired of me moaning about being cold! The Slanket is a rather large sleeved blanket and that is where it gets its name - Sleeved blanket ... Slanket!
The Slanket is fashioned to be like an over sized dressing gown crossed with a blanket. My Slanket is a deep raspberry pink colour, one the front is a large pocket the type with two open sides. To wear the Slanket you put it over you like you would a regular blanket then you slip your arms through the oversized sleeves. The sleeves enable you to stay in one comfy spot all night whilst keeping warm as you don't have to lift your arms from under the blanket to drink your tea/change channels/type/etc.!
The pocket is then on your stomach so if you were to put this on the 'normal' way the pocket would actually be on the back, however it isn't meant to be worn like that.
I don't even find it possible to walk properly when I have it on anyway as the Slanket is so long, I just keep tripping over it!
The Slanket is made from a fleecy material that does a fantastic job at keeping me warm and cosy. In fact it sometimes gets a little too warm under it as it covers your body, legs, arms and comes right up to my neck.
I believe my hubby paid in the region of £15 for my Slanket and I can honestly say that even though it isn't the most attractive item I own it was worth every penny.
My little one loves to snuggle up under it and often drifts off to sleep and I have gone on to buy my five year old son a Sponge Bob Square Pants cheapy Slanket as he loved mine too. My two eldest boys like to laugh at me whilst I am wearing it and call me 'Nan' but I secretly think they are jealous lol!
I find this invaluable in the colder months and I keep it hidden in a big toy basket in my living room during the day.
It is machine washable, I wash it on a 40degree wash and I have also tumble dried it many times, it has kept it's shape and still looks as good now as it did when new.
Thanks for reading :o) x
My boyfriend bought me a slanket about three years ago now for Christmas, and I love it! I hate being cold, and love getting all cosy on the sofa with this blanket! He has told me he got it from iwantoneofthose.com and paid around £25 for it.
My slanket is a baby pink colour, and it just comes in one size. This slanket is actually a blanket, but you can wear it, as it has long sleeves to put your arms through, and mine also has a pocket on the front! I'm not sure what for though, I have never needed to put anything in my pocket whilst I'm wearing my slanket! The slanket is very very long, when you are wearing it, it is difficult to walk about in it, as you would easily trip over it and it just drags along the floor.
The slanket when wearing it, actually is big enough to wrap around your whole body, which after a few minutes does really make you feel warm, sometimes a bit too warm at the minute, but on really cold winter days I couldn't be without my slanket. It is so big, I put it in my footstool, and can't fit much else in there with it! I have taken this slanket out with me on long journeys to see family in the car, and also when I went caravanning, it kept me so warm!
It is nice and thick, and excellent quality as mine still looks good as new. It is washed easily in the machine, and can be tumble dried too.
Once you have wrapped yourself up in this slanket sometimes it is a bit hard to move about, as I find it a little bit heavy. My boyfriend sometimes covers himself up on the sofa as well as me with this slanket, it is big enough for the two of us. I love how it has sleeves for your arms, so you can drink your cup of tea without your arms getting cold, like they would just with a normal blanket! You can wrap it round your legs and feet and still have some left! I have been to bed wearing my slanket too on really cold nights, it is so cosy! My cats loves to get under this and cuddle up to me, it is so warm. It would be good if this slanket fastened, as if you do want to walk about in it, you have to hold it shut around you.
I would definitely recommend getting a slanket for this winter! They are massive and keep you extra cosy and warmer than normal blankets do!
The slanket is a blanket with arms. They're available in a wide range of colours and the official ones cost about £25 although there are copies out there for less. Mine is the official one and was a gift last Christmas. It is really lovely and soft. It always washed well, although I'm always in a bit of a dilemma about how best to hang it up!
Other people have said this but they do look a bit like a hospital gown because they are open at the back but then you could never claim that this is a stylish item! It's a comfy, warm, practical item which makes a great gift for mums and grans and such like. They also do a double version which I really fancy for cosy nights on the sofa with my other half (although he'll probably just refuse to get in it!).
It is so much better than a normal blanket because it has arms. I just feel like I'm truly relaxing when I'm curled up on the sofa with a brew in my slanket. Right that's it, I'm off to buy the double version!
This is clearly a ''novelty product'' that caught on, and as my daughter has been mentioning it (she has a penchant for all things fluffy and soft that I sincerely hope she loses before becoming a teenager when it would make her and object of ridicule), I tried it out with an acquaintance who was gifted one by somebody.
As you can probably gather, it's a blanket (fleece, and quite nice to the touch, unlike some fleeces that remind you constantly that they were made of crude oil or something). However, instead of being a normal blanket, it's more of a robe - imagine a ginormous hospital nightie or a monk's habit with a backside opening... mind boggles.
It does feel warm, but I really, really, really cannot understand the point. A blanket can be used in a variety of ways, of which wrapping oneself in is only one (and I think a minor one). You can use it at night, to top up your duvet; you can sleep on it for extra padding; you can wrap it around your shoulders or cover yourslef with it at the front; you can spread it on the floor, a car seat or even grass for sitting or playing on. Even to built a den or hang in the window if you lack black-out curtains and your children tend to get up at dawn.
A slanket can be used in only one of the ways (the front-covering one), which I find extremely limited. I feel it's unnecessarily so, and not only encourages spending money on one-trick items but also probably make sit less likely for the ''wearer' to get up. I can also imagine people (children?) not bothering to take it off and dragging it downstairs, or to the kitchen or hall and the whole thing getting filthy in no time.
Also, for me personally the main time when I get cold WHILE REQUIRING USE OF MY HANDS is sitting at the computer at night, and the front-coverage makes no sense (though I think you can actually wear it back to front). But for that it's too long.
I don't quite understand this ''no constant fussing with the blanket'' tagline either. Surely most people above the age of about 3 are capable of wrapping themselves in a blanket if they so desire?
To top it all, it is more twee than just about anything short of crocheted loo-roll cover.
I now have realised that they make double ones.
Mind boggles even more.
A soft and cozy fleece blanket with sleeves. No constant fussing with the blanket so you can immediately snuggle up with a good book on the sofa.


text:
Skip to comments.Bush's Ridiculous Speech About Immigration Reform
Posted on 01/08/2004 1:10:01 PM PST by Happy2BMe
I just want to comment on a few of the things that jumped out at me as I read the text of Bush's speech about the horrendous new immigration legislation he is going to propose.
To begin with, this line just chaps me...
"As a nation that values immigration and depends on immigration, we should have immigration laws that work and make us proud. Yet today we do not."
No, our immigration laws don't work or make us proud. You know why? Because we don't make an effort to enforce them. It's like telling your kid to clean his room, having him watch TV instead, and then having him look you in the eye and say, "you know the system we're using to get my room cleaned up just isn't working".
Here's more from Bush...
"Many undocumented workers have walked mile after mile, through the heat of the day and the cold of the night. Some have risked their lives in dangerous desert border crossings or entrusted their lives to the brutal rings of heartless human smugglers.
BUSH: Workers who seek only to earn a living end up in the shadows of American life, fearful, often abused and exploited.
When they're victimized by crimes they're afraid to call the police or seek recourse in the legal system. They are cut off from their families far away, fearing if they leave our country to visit relatives back home they might never be able to return to their jobs."
Yes, that's pretty much what happens to criminals everywhere isn't it? I mean even though a drug dealer works hard and does dangerous work, he can't very well call the police and tell them someone stole his crack can he? Of course, if he were in an honest profession or if the illegal aliens obeyed our laws, they wouldn't have this problem would they?
Then Bush tosses off this whopper about the border...
"First, America must control its borders. Following the attacks of September the 11th, 2001, this duty of the federal government has become even more urgent, and we're fulfilling that duty."
No, the government isn't "fulfilling that duty". We still have illegals, drug dealers, and probably terrorists pouring across our border because the Bush administration even after 9/11, will not commit the necessary resources and manpower to get the job done.
Then this paragraph begs an obvious question...
"Employers must not hire undocumented aliens or temporary workers whose legal status has expired. They must report to the government the temporary workers they hire and who leave their employ so that we can keep track of people in the program and better enforce our immigration laws. There must be strong workplace enforcement with tough penalties for anyone -- for any employer violating these laws."
...and that question is, "why can't we go ahead and do that NOW"? If we did this today, most of the people who are here illegally would go home because they couldn't find jobs. So why do we have to wait until after we've made all these illegals who don't respect our laws into citizens to do this?
Then there's this...
"The citizenship line, however, is too long, and our current limits on legal immigration are too low.
My administration will work with the Congress to increase the annual number of green cards that can lead to citizenship."
Our population is growing as it is and isn't unemployment higher than we'd like as it is? So why do we want to INCREASE the number of people flooding into our country legally?
Last but not least, Bush hit this theme several times...
"Reform must begin by confronting a basic fact of life and economics: Some of the jobs being generated in America's growing economy are jobs American citizens are not filling."
As Mark Krikorian explained in yesterday's National Review, those jobs would be filled by Americans if the illegals weren't driving down wages.
Does that not make perfect sense? I mean people get all up in arms about companies going overseas to get cheap labor, but when the cheap labor COMES HERE, those same people just assume that Americans "won't do those jobs". Sure they will, just not at the same price.
I can only hope that Congress fights Bush all the way on this bill and stops it cold. Giving illegal aliens legal status is only going to cause even more of them to flood across our borders to fill up our prisons, our schools, and leech off of our social services. Our government should be doing everything in its power to stop them instead of rewarding them for breaking our laws.
...and that question is, "why can't we go ahead and do that NOW"? If we did this today, most of the people who are here illegally would go home because they couldn't find jobs. So why do we have to wait until after we've made all these illegals who don't respect our laws into citizens to do this?
bump for a truism so simple, you weep at the knowledge that some continue to overlook it.
And more, and more a left winger. What are we going to to with 40 million new illegals???
And politically untenable to suddenly bring out the hammer in enforcing laws that have merely been winked at for at least 30-odd years now.
I agree with Guyin4Os that this is at least a start.
Ah, Bush intends to put them on"Double Secret Probation." That'll show'em!
So, then, why not strictly limit it to agricultural labor, or bussing tables, or jobs that wouldn't have American takers at living wages? I wouldn't even toss janitorial services into the list, there are a lot of Americans who would do those jobs if the el-cheapo WalMarts would pay as much for it as they pay a "greeter" to slobber all over you as you enter their store. Janitorial "companies" that hire illegals would do so, anyway, the only leverage you have over a subminimum wage worker to keep him from stealing the place blind is to turn him in to the INS.
I've posted in the past that I believe there should be a "guest worker" program, as I don't expect my kids and grandkids to pick lettuce, nor do I want to pay five bucks a head for said vegetable. But why include the really stupid parts of this program? Why allow application from within the US? Why let Momma come over here to breed her pups on this side of the border, to become automatic citizens? Why get the Social Security administration involved with this? I sure don't want my grandkids paying out Social Security taxes of 25% to support this generation's wetbacks who are living it up in Mexico for their retirement.
This plan sucks, pure and simple. And this comes from somebody who does NOT support automatic "round 'em up and shoot 'em all" ways of dealing with illegal immigration.
Raise taxes to pay for the services that they will demand.
You thing he will win in Arizona? Ever heard of the Protect Arizona Now initiative? Arizona is doing something similar to what California did with Davis not too long ago. Funny! All the pols are against it but about 70 % of the people are stampeding to sign the petition.
And you think he might win California? Trust me Roland! Not a chance! I'm there! This is a serious blue state and with this amnesty thingee, he is losing a lot of his hard core base.
And the great irony is, Bush won't win one single vote more from the Hispanic community for this.
What's worse, we'll be in such a financial bind that we'll have difficulty even financing a war on terror. We'd better vanquish the Islamofascists real quick, before the world wises up and stops financing our debt.
I'm going to have to ask you to be more detail specific and back up that claim. Name those laws and detail exactly how they are unenforceable, unworkable, unrealistic, and unreasonable.
And then explain how we are supposed to enforce the guest worker program if our current laws are unenforceable. The guest worker program only makes it more complex.
If we can enforce the guest worker program then we have displayed that we can enforce current immigration laws.
Enforceable, workable, realistic and reasonable laws dont work when they not enforced. Hence our illegal immigration problem.
To my eyes, by far,
most immigrants are decent
and play by the rules.
Immigrants that don't
play by the rules seem to be
a minority.
It is troubling that
conservatives seem to see
immigration as
defined by the small
(comparatively) number
of the illegals,
rather than all the
law abiding immigrants.
None of us accept
liberals when they
define gun control built on
criminals rather
than law abiding
gun owners. We should judge by
the good, not the bad.
If GW ever was looking for that 20% in the middle vote he sure has lost it here plus any chance to win my vote as vanished. He's just an elite globalists which most are in Washington & they will sell out the good folks of this nation at the drop of a coin to enrich their sorry a$$e$. Interestingly, some of GWs fervent followers are seeing how mistaken he has been (except for the war effort) so their redeeming factor is to build this war thingee up as if we will be killed tomorrow w/o Tom "water-me-twice-a-week" Ridge. I believe that the emeny is within. ie illegaals, judges, lawyers, sellout politicians.
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.


text:
I started copying all our blog posts here so that when one was particularly relevant to a thread, I'd be able to link to it rather than basically rewrite the whole thing out in the thread. This was a hassle, since I had to make sure to strip out product links and links back to my blog for each post, plus change it all to bbcode from HTML, but it seemed worth it for the convenience of being able to link.
However, the board rules interpretation has changed and we can no longer link to our blogs, even if they are on this site. So, if you want to see more of our blogs, you can google The Liberated Kitchen or find it linked from my profile page.
- Read more...
- 0 comments
- 516 views


text:
I loved this challenge, and I have always loved how layouts using a lot of white space looked...i might need to do this more often. thanks for the great inspiration anke!!
All Designer Digitals
Katie Pertiet:
Arctic Whites Paper Pack No. 02
Clean Stitched Borders: White No. 01
Thin Classic Photo Frames Curled and Flat No. 01
This Life Words Brushes and Stamps No. 01
This Life Words Brushes and Stamps No. 01
Flair Minis No. 02
Lynn Grieveson:
Geometric Hints Brushes and Stamps
thanks for taking a peek


text:
West Sac city manager to retire
FOLLOWING IS A City of West Sacramento press release issued today, in its entirety. This article has been updated to reflect a correction from the original press release; the city manager's retirement will be effective by July 1 of this year, and not 2013.
City of West Sacramento Mayor Christopher Cabaldon announced today that City Manager Toby Ross has announced his intention to retire sometime before July 1. In his letter to the City Council, Mr. Ross stated, "…This decision does not come lightly. I am not only leaving a position where I have had unrivaled support from the Council and staff, I am ending a career in a profession that I care about deeply. I cherish my time in public service and believe that I have made a difference in the communities I have served. It has been a privilege and my good fortune in West Sacramento to work with a mayor and council members who demonstrate their commitment to the community through confident and creative leadership. It has been my pleasure to approach the opportunities and challenges of West Sacramento with my valued colleagues and friends. I appreciate the support, and latitude afforded me by the members of this exceptional community…"
Mr. Ross has served as West Sacramento's City Manager since November 2002. Mr. Ross has managed many projects and programs that have improved the quality of life for residents and workers in West Sacramento and have positioned the City for an enhanced and respected role in the region. Some accomplishments include major retail development in the north and south ends of the City, with anchor tenants such as IKEA, Wal Mart, Nugget and Target; the development of the City's downtown into a vibrant government center encompassing City Hall, the Arthur F. Turner Yolo County Library, a satellite facility for Sacramento City College and a City Community Center. The City's aggressive flood protection program was developed and advanced under Mr. Ross as well as major infrastructure projects in support of the Bridge District, an intense urban riverfront development south of Tower Bridge. Mr. Ross also serves as the Executive Director for the Port of West Sacramento.
Immediately prior to this appointment, Mr. Ross served as the City Manager for Park City, Utah. Park City is a world-class, resort community that played host to approximately 40 percent of the events of the 2002 Olympic Winter Games. Mr. Ross presided over this full-service resort city for more than 13 years and was named "Manager of the Year" by the Utah League of Cities and Towns for his work on statewide growth and planning issues.
Mr. Ross has an extensive educational background. He earned MA and PhD and degrees from UC Berkeley; and a BA degree from UC Santa Barbara. Mr. Ross has also held a number of university faculty positions.
Mayor Cabaldon stated, "Toby Ross is one the West's most highly regarded city managers, and for good reason. He has been pivotal to our city's transformation as he delivered project after project while running a tight fiscal ship and fostering a City Hall where talented, passionate people can get things done. We will miss Mr. Ross dearly, but today I'm just grateful that West Sacramento has had the exceptional good fortune of his leadership for a decade. Now our city says, 'thank you' and 'best wishes for a much-deserved retirement'."
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.


text:
Armenia: Activities in 2012
12-03-2013 Operational Update
A round-up of the ICRC's work in Armenia.
Assisting civilians in unsafe areas
Pursuing their dialogue with the authorities on matters of humanitarian concern stemming from the Nagorny Karabakh conflict, ICRC delegates continued monitoring the situation of communities living on both sides of the international border between Armenia and Azerbaijan. To help people in border villages meet their basic economic needs, the organization carried out a number of livelihood projects in frontline villages in Tavush province. The ICRC:
- repaired and upgraded irrigation networks in the remote villages of Dovegh and Chinary, thus enabling their inhabitants to gradually increase their agricultural production on safe land;
- repaired and upgraded drinking-water supply networks in Berkaber, Aygepar and Nerkin Karmir Aghbyur villages;
- provided wheat and potato seed plus fruit trees for over 1,000 families in Chinary, Berkaber, Aygepar and Nerkir Karmir Aghbyur villages.
Working together with volunteers from the Armenian Red Cross Society, ICRC staff used standard questionnaires to gauge the needs of Armenia's estimated 500 victims of mines and other explosive remnants of war.
- Armenian Red Cross volunteers collected information on 59 victims of these devices from Tavush, Gegharkunik, Syunik, Vayots Dzor and Ararat provinces and the city of Yerevan.
To enhance its emergency preparedness, the ICRC helped the National Society conduct six basic first-aid courses for residents of Tavush and Syunik provinces. In all, 58 people qualified as first aiders.
Families of missing persons
At the end of December, 4,627 people remained unaccounted for in connection with the Nagorny Karabakh conflict. In all, 432 people were registered as missing in Armenia. For the ICRC, ascertaining their fate and addressing the various needs of their families remained a priority.
- The ICRC continued working closely with the national commission for prisoners of war, hostages and missing people to set up a centralized system for the management of "ante-mortem data". This data is stored for use in future efforts to identify human remains.
- The ICRC also worked with the commission to prepare operating procedures for the collection of DNA samples from relatives of the missing. The process should start this year.
In 2011, the ICRC launched an initiative to aimed at meeting the psychological, legal, social and economic needs of the families of missing people. Its work continued throughout 2012 in Yerevan and Shirak, Tavush, Lori, Armavir and Gegharkunik provinces.
- With the help of ICRC-trained local partners* and Armenian Red Cross staff, 247 relatives of missing persons were able to voice their trauma and their concerns during a total of 41 events at which they received information and support. Meanwhile, 82 individuals requiring extra help benefited from individual support provided by ICRC partners.
- The ICRC organized a series of workshops and discussions for 52 young people to give them an opportunity to talk about the experience of growing up with a father missing and to make their voices heard. Similar activities were organized for other family members from across the country on 30 August, International Day of the Disappeared.
To help families of the missing cope with economic hardship, the ICRC continued gauging their economic needs and providing economic support.
- Surveys continued of the needs of missing people's families in Syunik, Armavir, Shirak and Gegharkunik provinces.
- In conjunction with the Fuller Centre for Housing in Armenia, the ICRC improved housing conditions for 33 families from Tavush, Armavir, Shirak, Gegharkunik, Syunik and Lori provinces.
- To help them achieve a stable income, 27 families took part in ICRC-run micro-economic projects. They received financial support and vocational training, while the ICRC covered the interest rate on loans taken out by five families from local micro-financing NGOs with which the ICRC has agreements to help small businesses.
* Fund Against Violations of the Law, Armenian Centre for Health and Education, Family and Child Care Foundation (Arevamanuk)
Visiting people deprived of their liberty
- The ICRC visited two prisoners of war and a civilian internee held in connection with the Nagorny Karabakh conflict, as well as 15 other detainees held in five different facilities throughout the country. During these visits, delegates monitored their treatment and living conditions and, in keeping with standard ICRC procedures, confidentially informed the authorities concerned of their findings and recommendations.
- Delegates conveyed Red Cross messages (brief personal messages) between the detainees and their families.
- At the request of all the parties concerned, the ICRC acted as a neutral intermediary to facilitate the repatriation of a civilian internee from Armenia to Azerbaijan.
Implementing international humanitarian law at national level
The representatives of the ministries of justice, defence and foreign affairs discussed their experience implementing humanitarian law treaties with their colleagues from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) by participating at the fourth regional seminar on implementing that body of law, held in Astana, Kazakhstan on 2-3 October. The event was organized by the ICRC and Kazakhstan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Promoting humanitarian law among the armed forces
The ICRC continued its dialogue with the Ministry of Defence on incorporating humanitarian law into military operations and training. Meanwhile, humanitarian-law training continued at the military academy and the Ministry's advanced officers' courses.
- For the first time, the ICRC participated in the practical part of the military exercise organized in Armenia by the Collective Security Treaty Organization in September, simulating its humanitarian action in conflict-affected areas.
- Two groups of 15 officers each enhanced their skills in humanitarian law to military planning and operational procedures during two five-day workshops jointly conducted by the Ministry of Defence and the ICRC.
- A high-ranking officer from the Ministry of Defence participated in the senior workshop on international rules governing military operations, held from October 8 to 13 in Kuala Lumpur and organized by the ICRC and the Malaysian armed forces.
- ICRC held five information sessions for the military contingents deployed in Tavush province to update them on the current ICRC operations in the country.
Acquainting future leaders with international humanitarian law
Continuing its cooperation with universities, the ICRC encouraging motivated students and young researchers to promote and conduct research into humanitarian law.
- Graduate students and assistant professors from CIS countries, Poland and Iran discussed means and methods of warfare and contemporary challenges for humanitarian law at a conference organized by the ICRC and the Armenian-Russian University (22-23 November).
- A professor from Yerevan State University took part in a regional workshop on humanitarian law held in Almaty, Kazakhstan, while two other experts served as jury members at the ICRC-supported International IHL Olympiad in Belarus.
- Ten reporters from Yerevan and other parts of Armenia learnt more about humanitarian law and the ICRC's work during a workshop in Yerevan on 26-30 November (organized by the ICRC and the NGO Internews Media Support.
Joint projects with the Armenian Red Cross
Joint projects by the Armenian Red Cross and the ICRC included help for families of missing people and for the victims of mines and other explosive remnants of war. With ICRC support to boost the National Society's operational capacity, the Armenian Red Cross continued its core activities, including restoring family links, first-aid training and basic promotion of international humanitarian law.


text:
Reviewed By Julio B (fort lauderdale, FL) Reviewed for a 2003 Ford Econoline —10/7/2014 8:21 PM
Well made, highly recommended item. Get hot but it is "normal" (manual owners explained). When in use, the compressor doesn't stay in a place due to the vibration when the pump is working. I can live with it. Is not so slow to put the air in a truck tire. 20 psi in about few minutes (less than 5)


text:
" One of UK's best-selling crafts magazine. Find inside an exciting mix of projects, great reads and easy-to-follow advice for all your stitching needs. "
* Prices may differ from that shown
Cross Stitcher Magazine:
Although many people think of Cross Stitching as a bit old fashioned, I find it a very relaxing and rewarding hobby. It really isn't difficult and you get such a good result. I've been buying Cross Stitcher Magazine since 2006 and thought it was about time I reviewed it.
Cross Stitcher Magazine is, (as you may well of guessed), a magazine dedicated to Cross Stitching. The main reason I buy it is for the cross stitch patterns but the magazine also contains news relating to crafting and embroidery, competitions, shopping guides, readers letters and pictures and interviews with designers and professional stitchers.
The reason I choose Cross Stitcher over the other cross stitch magazines on the market is because the patterns on offer here are much more modern. You do get the odd cutesy Disney-esque character, floral pattern or quaint cottage scene but for the main part the designs are up to date and vibrant. I have to be honest and say that I prefer the October-December issues when it's full of Christmas patterns but I still stitch a fair few things throughout the rest of the year.
Cross Stitcher magazine runs at about 100 pages per issue and there are normally around 15 patterns/groups of patterns. The selection is great and includes small designs suitable for cards, gift tags and embellishing items and larger designs for things like bags, cushions (my favourite thing to make) and of course, framed pictures. You get a couple of alphabets in every issue which I love, they are great for personalising designs and I personally love the look of an alphabet stitched and then framed or made into a cushion.
Where the design has been made into an item like a cushion or bag the magazine prints instructions for how to make them which are clear and easy to follow.
The physical magazine comes with a free gift every issue, normally this will be a kit containing fabric, threads, a needle and embellishments but occasionally you get a tin, a set of needles or a something like a diary. For the most part I find that the gifts are poor quality and often there are parts missing or damaged. To be fair the publisher is always willing to replace the gifts without quibbling but it's a faff. The exception to this is when you get a branded gift/sample.
For a while now I've been getting the digital version of the magazine. It's a little cheaper at ÂŁ2.99 per issue instead of ÂŁ3.99 for the physical version. Digital purchases come with a cute free folksy woodland animal chart as a bonus. I purchase the magazine through Zinio and I find it easy to use and enjoy being able to enlarge the charts etc. before I print them or view them on my tablet.
As well as everything I have already mentioned each magazine introduces a new crafting technique such as hardinger, appliqué or crewel work. I love this feature and I've tried a few things I've discovered this way. The magazine also covers the basics of cross stitching at the back of every issue so you can just grab a copy and get started.
I should probably mention that Cross Stitcher has a page on Facebook where you can ask questions, interact with fellow stitchers, post your completed projects and see sneak previews of forthcoming issues. I visit it often to see what other people have made with the designs in the magazines and to give feedback when I think something is particularly good or bad.
I find Cross Stitcher to be great value for money, cross stitch books tend to be expensive and very "themed" so ÂŁ2.99/ÂŁ3.99 is a great price for so many varied charts. If you like cross stitching I thoroughly recommend Cross Stitcher magazine.
CrossStitcher magazine is really only for those with an interest in cross-stitching. Sadly for those with an interest in model airplane making or golfing, this magazine isn't going to be the one for you. If you do like cross-stitching, then do read on.
CrossStitcher Magazine is one that comes out monthly and it usually comes in a plastic covering. This isn't because it contains risqué material though; it's because there's usually a free gift every month. This free gift varies from a diary to a little cross-stitch kit. The kits come with the aida material, the threads required and a needle, so it can be started as soon as you open the magazine.
Inside the magazine, there's always a letters page, which is always nice to read, as it shows people with finished projects, children who've just started in the craft and things like that. There are also lots of projects to make. Each one gives you the pattern, the colour key, the amount of hours that the project takes and any other materials you may need. The projects are always varied and may inspire you to start a new stitching venture. For example, I've made a Christmas sampler which looked fantastic and I've also stitched four t-shirts for my baby niece, which my sister was very pleased with.
There are always tips on stitching technique in the magazine, which can be very handy if you're just starting out and you're a bit daunted by the complicated patterns that you've looked at. They usually print tips on things such as framing you work or mounting your work in a greetings card.
There are usually some stories about readers, which look into their reasons for stitching or a special story around the projects that they've done. This gives the reader a bit of a break from looking at stitching patterns and they can sometimes inspire someone to start a new stitching task.
There are pages where people advertise things or ask for penpals or that sort of thing. This is usually towards the end of the magazine and inside the back cover, there is usually an interview with a designer or someone who's started their own stitching company.
There are, of course, advertisements and a fair chunk of the magazine is taken up with those. They are however interesting, as lots of them advertise kits so you can get a good idea of what's out there for you to stitch.
This magazine is about ÂŁ4 per month, less if you subscribe, but the cheapest way to get this magazine is to take out a subscription through Tesco Clubcard points. For ÂŁ13 of Clubcard points, the magazine will get delivered to your door every month for a year. Now that's value!
I always enjoy CrossStitcher Magazine and buy it most months (from next month, I'll be subscribing through Tesco, so I'll get it every month!) and it's always interesting and I always read it cover to cover. I'm a convert and so should you be!
 This is a monthly magazine which I find as an avid crossstitcher invaluable.Â
Most months the cover chart is of a popular character. My favourites have included Eeyore and Tatty teddy. These kits are chosen to appeal to many stitchers and are designed so beginners can do them but the more experienced won't find them too boring to do. The magazine also features other crossstitch charts which when created can be turned into tablecloths, jewellery boards, bags and christmas stockings among other things. This i find very useful because it has opened up different possible uses for my crossstitch instead of just getting them framed as a picture. Â
New kits and threads are also featured as well as where to get them. Even new websites get a mention. Letters and competitions also feature in the magazine meaning you can get involved if you wish. I must admit I'm a bit shy so have never done that but have got a penpal from the magazine through another one of their features. Â
The featured designs show a nice range from different alphabets to samplers, flowers, animals and people. I can safely say in all the years I have subscribed to the magazine I can always find at least one chart that I would love to make up. In fact I think my favourite feature is the stitch a star which creates charts of famous people like Princess Diana, Jason Donovan and Johnny Depp. Talking about subscribing as well as ensuring you get every issue, the magazine gives discounts if you want to buy one of the kits featured in that issue. The discount is only a couple of pounds but every little helps.Â
All in all I think its an invaluable tool for any crossstitcher and one you can keep refering to year after year.
I've been a subscriber to Cross Stitcher (via Direct Debit) for about 2 years now, since I started cross stitching when I had some spare time. It is also a hobby enjoyed by my mum and she introduced me to this magazine.
One of my fears of starting a hobby such as cross stitching was some of the old fashioned designs I'd seen so I was pleasantly surprised by some of the modern designs featured here. At first I was a fan of detailed pictures of individual flowers and Cross Stitcher has featured a few of these as patterns as well as giving ideas for similar kits.
Now I have a baby I enjoy looking for suitable patterns to stitch for her and this is another strong area for this magazine.
On the negative side I don't really like many of the kits that are given away (but the other gifts ie thread cutters etc are great) and some of the designs featured are a bit twee for me, but this shows the diversity of audience and designs included.
My mum subscribes to every cross stitch magazine going and I frequently raid her back issues, but none are as good or as consistent as Cross Stitcher.
As the name suggests, Cross Stitcher magazine is magazine for cross stitchers. It is available in many newsagents and in many supermarket magazine isles. Per issue, it costs ÂŁ3.99 and for a subscription paid for by direct debit is ÂŁ9.98 every three months.
The majority of the pages within the magazine are taken up by a number of projects, the design of which include many subjects. The designs include things from Disney, floral designs, seasonal designs (i.e. christmas, valentines day etc), and projects that are ideal for a childs bedroom. All the different designs can be made into a range of different things like cards, bags, cushions and pictures for the wall. The magazine also shows how to complete these various projects without having to take it to a professional.
The charts that you follow to stitch the design, I find, are easy to read. Each square on the chart represents one stitch. Each square has a symbol within it and this represents a certain colour. Each symbol is also colour coded, making it easier to read. There is a key listing all the symbols and their colours. To make sure you have everything you need to complete the project, there is a handy check off list which tells you where you can get those items from.
Each project has a given level of ability-beginner, intermediate and advanced. This is clearly illustrated, but there is nothing stopping you doing any particular project.
Within the thirteen issues a year of the magazine, there are several competitions. You can win lamps and magnifiers (to help see your stitching), cross stitch kits and books amongst many things. You can only enter most of these through the website (www.crossstitcher.co.uk) and by clicking the links and entering the key words.
There are also pages for new stitching goodies that are available that particular month, pages for members to show off their latest projects and also a page of puzzles and crosswords.
In my opinion the magazine is really good value. As an avid stitcher, I enjoy deciding what project I am going to do next. I find the charts really easy to read and that there are often handy tips dotted throughout the magazine. The prizes for the magazines are always good, though I have not won any yet.
The only thing that I dont like is the fact that there are many projects in each issue I like, but I never have time to do them all!
I would recommend this magazine to anyone who enjoys cross stitching as there is such variety that there is something for everyone.
I was taught to cross stitch when I was about 6 years old and as much as I enjoyed it, it is not something which became a regular hobby until now.
I was in the newsagents looking for a magazine to read whilst I was doing some babysitting and I saw the craft magazines, the cross stitching ones particularly caught my eye though because they all had wonderful free gifts on them. That night whilst babysitting I began stitchin one of the cover kits and since then I have been an avid cross stitcher.
In the bundle of magazines I bought that day, was Cross Stitcher magazine, since that day I have purchased every issue.
An issue of Cross Stitcher currently costs ÂŁ3.99 which might sound expensive, but each issues comes with a free gift, which can vary from a complete cross stitch kit, embellishment packs, card making kits and other stitching bits and bobs - not to mention the wonderful charts included in the magazine!
I realised that each month I was rushing out to buy the mgazine and paying ÂŁ3.99 for each issue, when it would be much more sensible to take out a subscription, which is what I have done. I now pay ÂŁ9.98 every 3 months which saves me 23% on the cover price. I also recieve a wonderful free gift of a huge assortment of special brand name threads worth ÂŁ50! As a subscriber I get my magazine delivered free to my door and there is an extra suppliment in the magazine.
There are many advantages to buying Cross Stitcher besides the great free gifts, each issue caters for everyone. There are always some charts which will take a few hours and are quite easy which is really good for newbie stitchers, then there are some which are a bit toughter and may take about 20 hours and perhaps use different stitches or threads and then for the advanced stitchers there are harder more detailed and complicated charts.
I really love that each chart will tell you roughly how long it will take, it also lists everything ou will need, not only to make up the picture but very often how to make it into something special like a cushion or cards.
The charts come with easy to follow keys which tell you the numbers for Anchor, DMC and Madeira brands of thread. It also tells you what size and type of fabric you will need.
The magazine includes lots of great competitions as well as pages on whats hot in the cross stitch world and how you can get hold of it. There are also pages of readers letters, penpals and a page of reader ads, in addition to features from designers.
In every issue there are several main designs and you are able to purchase the complete kits for these designs at reduced prices from Cross Stitcher.
As with all magazines, there are quite a few adverts, however I find ome of these to be really quite helpful because I have been able to order threads online for 50% less than I pay in my local store, I found the online store through an advert in Cross Stitcher.
Cross Stitcher is a really high quality magazine and I reccomend it to any cross stitch enthusiast whether they are just starting out or have been cross stitching for years, there is something in this magazine for everyone!
Cross Stitcher is a monthly magazine published by Future Publishing. At the time of writing the current price is ÂŁ3.75 and contains on average around 100 pages and 55 cross stitch designs.
It focuses on the hobby of - yep you guessed it - cross stitching! The magazine contains colourful and modern designs from various cross stitch designers. All charts in the magazine are "Cross Stitcher Quality Assured" which means that they have been checked for errors and make the most use out of accents such as fractional stitches, backstitch and french knots (compared to other magazines where the designs look "blocky" because of the use of whole stitches only or backstitch that exactly follows the grid lines).
I have read all the cross stitch magazines at some point or another, and must say I find that Cross Stitcher consistently comes up trumps. I think it is because of the quality of the charts in there - they are in full colour and easy to read and equal the quality of charts that come with full kits in the shops.
As well as the designs featured, there are also other regular sections such as:
Reader Letters
Questions and Answers on reader's stitching queries
Competitions and Giveaways
Guide to basic cross stitching to get you started
Stockist list of where to buy everything featured in the designs
Subscription offers for those of you that would like more!
Cross Stitcher designs featured are not just traditional pictures, they feature towel borders, cards, cushions, stitching on clothes... the inspiration is endless!
The magazine comes with a free gift each month, this is usually in the form of a mini cross stitch kit. I remember the days in the 90's where the free designs were about two inches square at most, but the free kits have really come on a lot since then let me tell you! Recent free gifts I have seen are Margaret Sherry Kits (a lot bigger than two inches square!), Oriental kits and a thread organiser. All free gifts are of a very high quality and the kits come with everything needed - threads, fabric, needle, chart and mount! Sometimes you dont get the mount in the kit but can print them off the website, I feel this is a disadvantage to the people that dont have the internet (perhaps the older stitchers) or people that don't have a high quality or colour printer.
But overall I'd say this magazine is brilliant for any cross stitcher - old or young as the designs cover such a varied range of styles you are bound to find something you like!
I have been an on-and-off reader of cross stitcher and many other cross stitch mags for 5 years and a subscriber to cross stitcher for one year. I love the variety of projects that it offers. The 'Over to You' section containing readers contributions is always really interesting. You can see what other people have been stitching and you can request charts that are hard to find, and sell stitching items that you no longer need.
As someone who doesn't get the time to stitch as much as I'd like (Isn't that most of us?) I really like dreaming about completing 'the big stitch'. There is one in every issue and it's always something different, it's the largest project in the magazine and is almost always inspiring. I have a pile of them marked and waiting for when I break a leg or something and have loads of time to stitch!
There is a very good section in the back of the magazine for new and inexperienced stitchers. It shows the basics of cross stitching and any speciality stitches used in that issue. It takes you step by step through a very basic project to help you learn. And when you've done that you'll be ready to start on other projects in the magazine. All projects are marked beginner, intermediate, advanced, with a rough estimate of how many hours the project should take to complete. I've found these to be very helpful when choosing projects as I know how long it's likely to take and the complexity of the project.
The only real disadvantage I have found with cross stitcher is that some of the charts do not have a thread key for DMC stranded cottons, only for Anchor. I know this is beause DMC/Anchor pay them for producing work from specific designers with specific thread keys but it is very annoying for the stitcher (me). Because I have nearly finished getting all the DMC colours and do not want to get the Anchor ones as well, but I find it almost impossible to convert them myself.
Variety of projects
Interesting articles
'Over to You' section
Option to buy a materials pack for some of the projects, to turn it into a kit rather than just a chart.
Never enough time to stitch everything I like.
Some issues don't have any designs that really catch my attention (but I always have loads waiting from previous issues so I'm never without something to stitch.)
Lots of adverts, but I think all magazines are the same.
Not all of the charts are given with a DMC thread key.
The cover price is ÂŁ3.99, subscription prices vary with different offers. I saved 35% on the cover price but didn't get any free gifts. Sometimes you can save less and get a gift such as a book or kit when you subscribe.
Overall I think Cross stitcher is a very good cross stitch magazine for beginners and experienced stitchers alike. Almost all of the disadvantages I've highlighted are beyond the control of the magazine staff and I think they do exceptionally well within the constraints they have to work with.
As an avid cross stitcher, I love the various magazines that are available, and only wish I had the funds available to buy them all, however in order to keep on the right side of the bank manager, I have to limit myself. I have subscribed to Cross Stitcher for the last 7 years or so, and can safely say that it is the best cross stitching magazine by miles. If you, like me, cannot afford to buy them all, then I would seriously recommend making this one the one you buy or subscribe to.
What makes it so good? Well, there are the usual things to start with. Each issue has a wealth of projects, some small, some big, and all with clear instructions and pictures. There are letter pages, articles about designers, puzzles, general news from the cross stitching world (you never knew it was so much fun did you?!), and a good section for the beginner at the back. There are plenty of free gifts, and not just the little free kits (which are good for cards), but accessories and threads as well, stuff you would actually use.
Recently the magazine has had something of a revamp, and has improved greatly. Now the projects are not simply concentrated on cute pictures and flowers (there is only so much Winnie the Pooh someone can stand), but there are more modern and abstract designs. Beautiful projects with bright jewel colours, things you really want to get your teeth into. The magazine has realised that its audience has a huge variety of interests, likes and dislikes, and aims to cater for all.
Occasionally there will be articles explaining how designers produce their finished pieces, which are always informative and useful, and make me dream of a day when I can make millions by whipping up a few gorgeous kits (hmm, not sure it's this easy but they make it seem so! I would have to improve my art skills first as well ...)
My only criticism would be the same as I have for many of these magazines - too much advertising! I guess this is how many of the smaller business get to their target audience, but it does make for a quick last few pages.
A great read, and the best magazine on cross stitching I have found.
This is a great magazine for cross stitch lovers. I used to subscribe to this magazine, which was great, i loved recevieing my monthly copy on the door mat usually a few days before i came out in the shops. Most of the time it contains great cross stitch charts to keep and add to your to do pile. This magazine has many different charts to suit all stitchers of all levels and ages. They always contain a shopping list of the things you will need to complete the charts, aida sizes etc... the magainze contains piece of work that other stichers have done by sending a photo in which always inspired me to get my stitching out. I loved to see what others have stitched and who they have have stitched them for, wheather it be a friend or relative or for charity. The magazine is a little pricey but if you do subscribe it does work out a little cheaper. You usually get a free gift with the magazine, little cross stitch kit which are great to make into a card or to stitch for a charity.
I have been subscribing to Cross Stitcher for a few years, its my favourite cross stitching magazine with in my opinion the best balance of news, letters, tips, quick charts and big charts for counted cross stitch fans.
Every month the magazine includes a fantastic free kit or other useful freebie such as a chart holder to organise my stitching. The free kits feature often favourite characters like winnie the pooh, popcorn the bear or they are themed for occasions such as Mothers Day and Christmas. In addition to this they frequently include free giant charts of popular themes like All Our Yesterdays. At the end of the year I get a great free stitchers diary full of tips and stitching events to see me through the year.
Tha magazine is brimming with excellent content. Not just a reference, its a good read too.
Cross Stitcher has all the latest news on needlecraft shows, new products hitting the shops and latest threads to enhance my work. The letters page showcases readers' cross stitching and offers motivation and encouragement to keep on going with that difficult piece of work.
The charts inside the magazine are very high quality and easy to follow with extra timesaver tips. Popular characters are abundant such as Flower Fairies, Tatty Teddy and Popcorn Bear. Charts featuring themes such as Native American, floral and seasonal make sure the needles is never idle. Each chart comes with a shopping list, a quick guide to whether it uses beads, speciality threads, whole stitches only or half stitches. There are handy reader offers to such as discounted books and framing offers.
The reader to reader section is a very handy small ads page for locating that hard to find chart or back issue missed. Tales from Norman is a delightful column written by stitcher and ex TUC General Secreatry Normal Willis which keeps me in stitches every month.
Cross Stitcher regularly features stitching alphabets and excellent 'Buy The Best' product reviews with a top 5 kits column. Expert advice is on offer in the Ask The Experts section and Find That Chart tracks down the rare and the unusual.
At the back of the magazine are three real gems. A beginners guide because not everyone is a seasoned stitcher, Wise Words providing inspiration for samplers or simply a chuckle and a small chart that is part of a yearly collectable series.
A few cross words here. The subscription service has left me a little disappointed, although the magazine has always arrived on time three times now the cover kit has been missing when the magazine has plopped through my door. Future publishing to their credit however have sent out a replacement without quibble which has arrived within a fortnight.
On a more positive note they do offer a high quality free gift with subscriptions, I received a Catitudes kit that is absolutely adorable. The saving on the cover price makes subscribing worthwhile and subscribers get extra competitions, puzzles and charts every month via the subscriber only pages.


text:
By Dara
With hundreds of people visiting M&J Trimming in NYC everyday, you can image how busy the store is. Every person who walks into the store has a mind for creations of his or her own.
Customers storm the store with amazing ideas on using M&J's products. It's great to know that our products can bring their creations to life.
I wanted to share with you today what some customers have been using the products for. For instance, last week a young lady stepped into the store in search for some sequins and matching organza ribbons. While assisting her I had asked what the items were going to be used for. She said that she works for a make-up company and they were holding a special event promoting a new product. Therefore, she wanted to artistically embellish the sales girls with some sequins along the side of their face and tie the organza as a bow around the neck. I would have never imaged using the items in this way. It's amazing how creative people's mind can get.
Some of the more popular trend is of course, bedazzling cell phones with Swarovski rhinestones. None other than Paris Hilton started this addictive trend. Today, many customers storm the store in search for the perfect color to match their phones as well as ipods, headphones, shoes and clothes. The list goes on forever when it comes to bedazzling projects and garments. It's so easy and the sparkles are definitely irresistible.
At M&J we try very hard to place all of our items online. However, it's not as easy as many may think. The process is long due to the fact that we must precisely take photos that best represent the true item, but today I'm able to share with you some photos of items that are available for purchase by calling our customer service.
The items you see are cute little sew-on cotton appliqués. I saw these and wasn't sure what to use them for yet, but you can be sure that I will use them in my future projects. Some costumers have been using these for knitted projects such as scarves, hats, blankets, sweaters and the list goes on forever.
I'm sure you also have some creative ideas. I'd love to hear about them. There's no need to be shy.


text:
Discussion in 'Stargate' started by teacake, Oct 7, 2012.
Did she do Ishta before or after T'Pol?
Broken Bow, 2001. Sacrifices, 2004.
It's the delivery but also that she holds her face in exactly the same way.. this tension in the cheeks to show she's not happy. She did hold off on the twitching eyes that T'Pol spent a season doing, I kept expecting to see it. And yes I liked T'Pol fine, and I thought the portrayal of a flawed Vulcan barely holding it together was a good one.. but perhaps that's all she's got? Ishta's interesting though, her Xena gals are interesting, their struggle adds a lot to the Jaffa storyline and she's a nice match with Teal'c. So presumably she will soon die.
Also, god bless Bra'tac he is always a fine inclusion to any episode and it's great to see him still with us as a recurring character 8 seasons in.
Yea, Bra'tac always adds a star to an episode's rating. He's great in Once upon a Time also as Gepetto
I liked him in a couple of season 1 episode of "Terminator: The Sarah Conner Chronicles" as one of her old friends who could get her fake IDs.
Hell, Tony Amendola was able to take that really subpar Continuum show and make it interesting, despite the fact that his character was so incredibly cliched. Now that's acting talent.
Prometheus Unbound: What is this a frakking crossover?! (do you see what I did there?)
Hammond: Dude, where's my Prometheus?
Exactly WHY did Daniel Jackson take off all her clothes? Okay maybe that armor is a onesie full of uber powers. Yeah.
Her outfit was supposed to be zat repellant, therefore Daniel had to remove it to take away any advantage she might have had. Otherwise, pointing a zat at her during the dinner scene would be meaningless.
Wait. I think you skipped "Gemini", which is an important one.
Gemini is the next one, on the next disc in the dvd set.
I'm having a marathon tomorrow, hopefully. Of Stargate, not running.
"Gemini" is a great ep!
The order on the season eight DVDs was different to the airing order. For some reason they swapped around Gemini and Prometheus Unbound, and more reasonably they swapped around Citizen Joe and Threads so that they could keep the Reckoning two parter and Threads on the same disc, while just sticking Citizen Joe with the Moebius two parter on the last disc.
Strange, my season 8 DVDs aren't like that at all. Gemini, Prometheus Unbound, Citizen Joe and Threads are in their proper spots, and the two parts of Reckoning are on seperate discs. Of course, I have the original release, the one which has the regular length (45 minutes) version of Threads as opposed to the longer one that originally aired. Does this make a difference?
But.. what order should I watch Babylon 5 in?
Watching Gemini now
DVD Order is fine for B5 proper, but, for Crusade...
I can't remember what I did with Crusade.. or whether it mattered. Just saying "Crusade" makes me want to do a rewatch though. But that's mainly because of the books.
Hey Crusade and Caprica should form a support group for one season spin off failures.
"My name is Caprica and I'm.. a dud. I admit I am powerless over the ratings."
Gemini: Did not see the ending coming. Though never a huge replicator fan it's a great relaunch of the storyline. A little disturbed at Carter's decisions. I could blame it on her getting Carter-R's hand stuck in her head but she made the decision to let Carter-R do that. What is it with people wanting to trust their Doppelgangers? Well Janeway didn't but it seems a common impulse to have extra sympathy just because someone looks like you. Even weirder if it's not alternative timeline/universe you but a machine!! I mean really Carter.. I'm kind of disappointed here. Is it that all your friends are males? Did some latent girlfriend gene get triggered and you lost your head when you saw Carter-R in that gorgeous coat? Pictured yourself out shopping with her?
And as to what O'Neill pictured..
Nothing beats the original order Firefly aired in. First episode was the last to air, oh my...
It's Good to be King: The "guango" is a custard apple. A cute episode though I prefer Maybourne a little more rogue. Can't wait to see what they do with the time device.
Damn, Girl...Break My Heart into tiny pieces AND STOMP ON THEM
I'd Join them
As far as Gemini goes, remember, it's been a while since Sam's seen the Doctor, and she's raising the child, so yea, I think if she glimpes a chance at a Sis-Mance with someone else, she might be vulnerable to the possibility
I got the original season 8 DVD's with the same order that Wormhole has, which went by the order they were aired.
The part I didn't like about It's Good to Be King is that Mayborne just didn't seem like a highly-trained, extremely dangerous, rogue intelligence operative in that episode. He seemed more like Gilligan or the Skipper, as if someone dropped the ball on his character continuity.
So decisions. Full Alert is probably next, and Citizen Joe could follow that (the air order) or follow Threads.
I like to watch Reckoning 1 & 2, Threads, and Mobius 1 & 2 in one big exciting lump, with lots of popcorn, but Citizen Joe could provide a breathing space (mostly a clip episode).
More like you can't wait to hear me bitch about what they did with the time device.
Separate names with a comma.


text:
Select Species:
Rhesus Monkey
Click on a target from the pathway image to view related information.
View Legend
Predesigned 96-well panel for use with SYBR® Green
List Price:
Your Price:
Log In
Predesigned 384-well panel for use with SYBR® Green
List Price:
List Price:
Hedgehog signaling
The Hedgehog (HH) family of proteins control cell growth, survival, and fate, and
pattern almost every aspect of the vertebrate body plan [1], [2], [3]. Sonic hedgehog homolog (SHH)
activation requires several steps: autocleavage, Cholesterol
binding, palmitoylation by Hedgehog acyltransferase (HHAT)
[2], [4], [5], [6]. Activated
SHH is transported by binding to Dispatched homolog 1
(DISP1) into extracellular region [7]. Growth
arrest-specific 1 (GAS1) [8], Boc homolog
(BOC), Cdon homolog (CDON)
[9], [10] bind to
SHH and activate HH signaling. Ribosomal protein L29
(HIP) binds to SHH, Indian
hedgehog homolog (IHH), Desert hedgehog homolog
(DHH) and inhibits HH signaling pathway [11].
DHH are members of HH family, which induce HH signaling
pathway activation by binding to Patched homolog 1 (PTHC1)
[3], [12], [13]. Ligand-induced
inhibition of PTCH1 leads to activation of Smoothened
homolog (Smoothened) [14].
Smoothened function depends on intraflaggelar transport
proteins Arrestin, beta 1 and 2 (Beta-arrestin1 and 2),
Kinesin family member 3A (KIF3A), which bind to and activate
Smoothened [15]. Adrenergic, beta, receptor
kinase 1 (GRK2) phosphorylates
Smoothened and induces it activation [16], [17]. Under SHH activation
Smoothened can induce
Ubiquitin-dependent degradation of Suppressor of fused
homolog (SUFU), main regulator of HH signaling pathway
[18], [19], [20]. Inhibition of
SUFU leads to activation of GLI family zinc finger 3 and 2
(GLI-3 and GLI-2)
transcriptional activity [1], [21].
GLI-2 and GLI-3 promote
transcription of GLI family zinc finger 1 (GLI-1) [22], [23]. GLI-1 activates target genes,
involved in regulation of HH signaling: PTCH1,
HIP [24]. Activated
GLI-2 and GLI-3 can be
ubiquitinated by Cul3/SPOP/Rbx1 E3 ligase and then undergo
26S proteasome (20S core)-dependent
degradation [25], [26].
SHH-activated Smoothened
binds to Kinesin family member 27 (KIF27) and promotes
activation of Serine/threonine kinase 36, fused homolog (STK36)
[1], [27], [28]. Cell division cycle
37 homolog (CDC37) in cooperation with Heat shock protein
90kDa (HSP90) binds to and induces STK36
[27]. STK36 activates
GLI-2, GLI-1 and inhibits
SHH -induced Smoothened
activates Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase 10
(MLK2(MAP3K10)) activity [13].
MLK2(MAP3K10) inhibits Dual-specificity
tyrosine-(Y)-phosphorylation regulated kinase 2 (DYRK2)
[30], [31]. DYRK2 phosphorylation of
GLI-2, GLI-3 induces
degradation of transcription factors [21], [30].
In absence of HH ligand Protein kinase, cAMP dependent, catalytic
(PKA-cat (cAMP-dependent)) phosphorylates
GLI-3 [32] and induces several consecutive
processes: SUFU binds to GLI-3
and promotes GLI-3 phosphorylation by Glycogen synthase
kinase 3 beta (GSK3 beta) [33],
Casein kinase I phosphorylates GLI-3 [34], Beta-transducin repeat containing (beta-TrCP) in
complex with Cullin 1 binds to phosphorylated
GLI-3 and promotes
Ubiquitin-dependent processing of
GLI-3 by 26S proteasome (20S core)
into GLI family zinc finger 3, repressor form (GLI-3R)
acts as co-repressor of transcription: GLI-3R and
SUFU bind to Catenin (cadherin-associated protein), beta 1,
88kDa (Beta-catenin) and inhibit it function [36], [37], [38].
On the other hand in absence of ligand PKA-cat
(cAMP-dependent), GSK3 beta,
Casein kinase I phosphorylate
GLI-2 and induce Cul1/Rbx1 E3
ligase-dependent 26S proteasome (20S core)
degradation of GLI-2 [13], [39], [40]. Degradation of GLI-1 in absence of HH
signal is promoted by Numb homolog (NUMB) [41].
NUMB binds to GLI-1 and induce
Itchy E3 ubiquitin protein ligase homolog (Itch)-dependent
proteasome degradation of GLI-1.
SUFU binds to and inhibits
GLI-1, GLI-2 and
GLI-3 activity [19], [25].
SUFU also recruits SIN3 homolog A, transcription regulator
(Sin3A)/Histone deacetylase (HDAC)
complex through interaction with
Sin3A-associated protein, 18kDa (SAP18) to
repress GLI-1 and enhance
GLI-3R activity [42], [43].
Cyclin-dependent kinase 11B (CDK11) binds to and inhibits
SUFU thereby activating
Hedgehog signaling [44].
SHH inhibits PTCH1-induced
inhibition of Cyclin B1, results in activation of cell
proliferation [45].
Protein Info:
Gene Info:
Ensembl Gene:
UniGene (transcript info):
SNP (polymorphism info):
Terms of Use of Thomson Reuters (Scientific) Inc. Maps. All users agree that (a) no right, title or interest in the Maps is transferred by display of the Maps; (b) the Maps may only be used for purposes of determining whether to purchase Bio-Rad products and services displayed in relation to the Maps; (c) the Maps may not be copied, printed, downloaded, modified or disassembled, and no derivatives of the Maps may be created; (d) the Maps and the data contained in the Maps may not be used for purposes of development or commercialization of any third party product or service without first obtaining a separate written license for such use from Thomson Reuters (Scientific) Inc.
Click on a target from the pathway image to view related information.
Protein Name:
Gene Symbol:
Gene Aliases:
Protein Info:
SNP (polymorphism info): (more)
Terms and Conditions
Home |
Copyright © 2018 Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. All rights reserved.


text:
The final minutes of the 2015 Miss Universe pageant were not Steve Harvey's best moments on live television.
The 58-year-old talk show and game show host is usually a natural when it comes to live television. But during Sunday night's broadcast of the annual worldwide Miss Universe pageant, he made a cringeworthy flub that may never be forgotten -- he named the wrong winner.
"Okay folks, I have to apologize," he awkwardly said on stage in a moment of sheer confusion.
While he initially announced that Miss Colombia Ariadna Gutierrez-Arvalo would be going home with the largest crown, it was actually Miss Philippines Pia Alonzo Wurztbach who was meant to be honored with the highest title. He had embarrassingly misread the ballot card. He apologized and the rightful winner was crowned in arguably the most awkward few minutes in pageant history.
It was a moment for the history books, one that viewers, fans, and the Internet may never forget.
PHOTOS: 2015 Miss Universe Contestants in Evening Gowns
As soon as viewers realized what was unfolding on air, social media exploded with reactions comparing the embarrassing bit to everything from Justin Bieber's chart topper "Sorry" to a scene from the early 2000s movie classic Mean Girls.
PHOTOS: 2015 Miss Universe Contestants: See All 80 Babes in Bikinis
While the moment may have ended hours ago already, we fear the Internet may not forget it for a long, long time. Check out some of the best Steve Harvey "Miss Universe" memes on the Internet.
Justin Bieber posts his Steve Harvey meme to Instagram.
Imagine Steve Harvey hosting the Oscars, so says a tweet meme by Twitter user Sunayana Suresh.
Twitter user Van Shumake likened Steve Harvey's about-face to a joke.
Ryan Nanni's meme evokes a Family Feud pun.
And then there's Miss Universe and Miss Universe 2015s post by @Showstopper120.