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Cape Town — A 125-year-old gold mining company established by the British imperialist Cecil John Rhodes is feeling the heat of United States anti-corruption measures over a scheme to allocate black South Africans - including prominent members of the ruling African National Congress - a share of its business.
Gold Fields Limited has confirmed in a notice published on the official Johannesburg Stock Exchange news service that it has been told it is the subject of a regulatory investigation by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
The probe, it said, relates "to the black economic empowerment transaction associated with the granting of the mining license for its South Deep operation."
South Deep is a gold mine south-west of Johannesburg for which Gold Fields secured mineral rights from the government on the basis of a 2010 deal in which a range of black South Africans - company employees, community organisations and a consortium including ANC leaders - were allocated shares.
Such deals are regularly concluded to meet government requirements for the economic empowerment of black South Africans. But the Gold Fields transaction became the subject of fierce criticism in South Africa's business press after the identity of some beneficiaries had emerged, and when it became known that Gold Fields' advisers had included convicted fraudsters.
The company was also criticised for not revealing a full list of beneficiaries when the controversy erupted - despite, it turned out, having already published the list for shareholders when the deal was struck.
The SEC investigation has its roots in a decision by the Gold Fields board late in 2012 to commission the prominent New York law firm, Paul, Weiss, to probe the deal.
The board had received opinions from South African lawyers clearing the empowerment scheme but was concerned that since Gold Fields is listed on the New York Stock Exchange, it needed to pay heed to SEC regulations and the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act.
The board did not announce its decision, but after its chairperson at the time (and a former managing director of the World Bank), Mamphela Ramphele, resigned and went into politics early this year, she responded to criticism of her role by revealing the Paul, Weiss probe to South Africa's Business Times newspaper.
She told the Times that the coordination of the investigation had been entrusted to the the chairman of the board's social and ethics committee, Roberto Dañino, a former Peruvian prime minister who has also served as senior vice-president and general counsel of the World Bank and as secretary general of the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes.
Late last month, the board - now chaired by former ANC activist Cheryl Carolus - received a report on the Paul, Weiss probe, and declared afterwards that "the implementation of the transaction did not consistently meet the high standards set by Gold Fields."
It added: "In particular, the board has identified areas that require further attention where internal policies and procedures can be strengthened. These include policies and procedures designed to increase transparency and improve the timeliness of internal communications between management and the board."
The board rapped the chief executive officer, Nick Holland, over the knuckles but said he retained its full confidence and that he had offered to waive his 2013 bonus. No other action was announced.
In a separate statement, the board announced that three directors - one of them Roberto Dañino - had resigned with immediate effect. A day later, a third statement further explained the resignations as being linked to reducing the number of Gold Fields directors from 12 to nine as a result of restructuring, but went on to add: "Once it became clear that the board had concluded its examination of the transaction relating to South Deep, Mr. Roberto Dañino resigned as chair of the social and ethics committee."
Last Friday, Johannesburg's Mail & Guardian newspaper led its weekly edition with a report saying that Paul, Weiss had questioned the legality of the circumstances under which ANC chairperson Baleka Mbete had secured a U.S. $2.5 million stake in the share allocation.
Paul, Weiss had recommended Gold Fields should "self-report" its conduct to the U.S. authorities but the board had "buried" the firm's finding, the paper said.
It quoted Dañino as saying he thought it his duty to remain on the board and its ethics committee until the board had considered the report. "Once the board made a decision, I decided to resign irrevocably. That's all I can say and you can draw your own conclusions."
On Monday, the SEC investigation was announced.
Declaration of interest: The writer liaised between Mamphela Ramphele and the Business Times while acting as an adviser to her during a leave of absence from AllAfrica.
Gold Fields - Between a Rock and a Hard Place
AllAfrica publishes around 600 reports a day from more than 150 news organizations and over 500 other institutions and individuals, representing a diversity of positions on every topic. We publish news and views ranging from vigorous opponents of governments to government publications and spokespersons. Publishers named above each report are responsible for their own content, which AllAfrica does not have the legal right to edit or correct.
Articles and commentaries that identify allAfrica.com as the publisher are produced or commissioned by AllAfrica. To address comments or complaints, please Contact us.
AllAfrica is a voice of, by and about Africa - aggregating, producing and distributing 600 news and information items daily from over 150 African news organizations and our own reporters to an African and global public. We operate from Cape Town, Dakar, Abuja, Monrovia, Nairobi and Washington DC.


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December 09, 2013
Contact: Kameron Korte
Phone Number: (571) 324-6204
Narcotics Task Force Announces Marijuana Seizures
Numbers for 2013 are released
SAN DIEGO - This morning, the Drug Enforcement (DEA) San Diego Field Division's Narcotics Task (NTF) along with the San Diego County Sheriff's Department and Health Advocates Rejecting Marijuana, (HARM) announce the total amount of illegal marijuana plants seized in San Diego County in 2013.
During calendar year 2013, NTF and our law enforcement partners seized over 120,084 marijuana plants from 113 separate grow locations - 58 outdoor sites and 55 indoor locations. At these locations, the investigators seized trafficker assets valued at approximately $379,217. Eighty nine subjects were arrested in connection with these operations. Of additional significance is the fact that 78,318 marijuana plants were removed from our public lands. That includes both U.S. Forest Service lands and Bureau of Land (BLM) lands. DEA/NTF will continue to intensify their efforts in this area and work with our National Guard, BLM, and US Forest Service partners and to halt the extensive environmental damage that these grows cause and to ensure that our public lands remain safe.
This year, NTF has seen a new trend in San Diego County related to indoor marijuana grow operations; Hash Oil Extraction Laboratories. NTF estimates that there have been Hash Oil Extraction Laboratories in approximately 75% of the indoor grow investigations seized. There were between 28 to 30 of these operations seized since January 2013, 12-15 of which resulted in an explosion/fire.
"DEA/NTF has a dedicated team, led by the San Diego County Sheriff's Department, whose sole purpose is to conduct marijuana investigations in San Diego County," says DEA San Diego Special Agent in Charge William R. Sherman. "We are very concerned about the new trend of hash oil extraction labs and the increasing number of indoor marijuana grow operations. These operations are a significant threat to public safety and this NTF team will continue to investigate these illegal and dangerous cultivation and manufacturing operations, most of which have direct ties to local marijuana dispensary storefronts."
For further information about marijuana cultivation, please refer to www.dea.gov.

subset: commoncrawl


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Flytipping fines
Community Wardens will issue a fixed penalty to a person who they believe has committed an offence under Section 33a of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.
The notice issued gives the person an opportunity of discharging any liability to conviction for the offence by paying a fixed penalty of £200 during the period of 14 days following the date of the notice.
Can I appeal a Flytipping Fixed Penalty Notice?
There are no formal grounds of appeal against a flytipping fixed penalty notice.
If you do not agree that you committed an offence then the matter will be dealt with through formal prosecution via the Procurator Fiscal. It will then be up to the Procurator Fiscal, on receiving evidence, to determine whether or not an offence was committed and therefore whether or not any penalty should be imposed.
The Procurator Fiscal route becomes the process for those wishing to appeal a fixed penalty notice. Please note that the penalty imposed by the Procurator Fiscal can be significantly greater than which is imposed through a fixed penalty notice from East Renfrewshire Council.


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22 December: O Rex Gentium/
Let's go appropriately widespread and remote among the nations for Rex Gentium.
O Rex Gentium, et desideratus earum, lapisque angularis, qui facis utraque unum: veni, et salva hominem, quem de limo formasti. O King of the nations, and their desire, the cornerstone making both one: Come and save the human race, which you fashioned from clay.
You may also enjoy: Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King, Liverpool


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Fancy an adrenaline rush? Make sure you tick these adventures off your list while you're in Sabah:
1. Wreck Diving at Usukan Bay
If you're looking for something more spectacular to see on your next scuba diving adventure, why not head down to Usukan Bay to check out the World War II Japanese wreck?
Explore the fascinating Usukan Wreck, Upside-down Wreck and Ricebowl Wreck while you're here.
A caveat: wreck diving is only for experienced leisure divers (minimum PADI Advanced Open Water Diver). If you're already a PADI Open Water Diver, perhaps it's time for an upgrade?
For more info, contact
Borneo Dream Travel and Tours Sdn Bhd at telephone number +60 88 244 064 (Office), +60 17 811 8149 (Booking Hotline – 07:30 till 20:00 Hrs.), Fax: +60 88 244 931 or Email: firstname.lastname@example.com. Visit the website at www.borneodream.com.
2. Spelunking and Rock Climbing at Batu Punggul
Far off the tourist-beaten tracks of Kota Kinabalu city is the Batu Punggul, which is located nearby Sapulut town—a small town in Sabah's Interior Division.
Batu Punggul is a large limestone massif and cave with 90-degree vertical climbs. Quite a great deal of climbing is required to reach the cave.
Nonetheless, the enthralling view from the top is worth the taxing climb. A word of caution, climbing is strongly not recommended for those who are afraid of heights.
For more info, contact Sabah Tourism Board at telephone number +6088-212121 or Sri Pelancongan Sabah at telephone number +6088-232121.
3. Mountain Torq Via Ferrata
If you're one of those people who have climbed Mount Kinabalu more than once on the normal trail, then it's time to give the Via Ferrata a go. You can pick whether to follow the Low's Peak Route or the Walk the Torq Route.
What's best about Mountain Torq Via Ferrata—which is also the highest in the world and the first in Asia—is that no experience or special skills are needed to qualify. Just be sure to have plenty of gumption and an adventurer's spirit!
For more info, contact Mountain Torq Sdn Bhd at telephone number +6088-268 126 or visit the website at www.mountaintorq.com.
4. Mountain Bike Expedition in and around Sabah
Get your cycling gear ready and hop on your mountain bike for an exciting tour around Sabah!
Depending on the places you want to see (and your fitness level), you can opt for either a day tour or a multi-day excursion package.
Be spellbound by the beauty of Sabah's natural surrounding while feeling the breeze against your skin and burning some calories in the process.
For weekend activities with friends and family, skip the car and go for a cycling road trip instead.
For more info, visit Trek Finder Tours Sdn. Bhd.
5. Paragliding in Lohan Village
Ever dreamed of learning how to fly? Now, you too can soar and glide up in the sky overlooking the scenic Lohan Village.
Having risen in popularity in the past two years, paragliding is fast becoming an adventurer's pet sport.
If you're a beginner, you can paraglide with the tandem flight team which is supervised by licensed and experienced trainers.
Besides Lohan Village, there are also several other places for you to fly, such as in Tamparuli's Ruhiang Hill and in Kokol Village.
For more info, contact Mejar Haznain Ngamil at telephone number +6019-8608700 or Mr. Khairul Azizi at telephone number +6014-9521077.
6. Jet Skiing on Gaya Island
Here in Sabah, the weather's sometimes too good to be wasted being indoors. So, why not book an island excursion tour and sign up for an exhilarating jet skiing adventure?
Splish splash in the water as you break waves on a jet ski and experience plenty of thrills and spills!
Guided by experienced and professional instructors, feel your heart beat faster as you race across the sea.
Jet skiers will also be taken outside the marine areas so that the activity will not have adverse effects on the island's coral population.
For more info, contact Downbelow Marine & Wildlife Adventures Sdn. Bhd at telephone number +60 12 866 1935 / +60 12 867 7375, fax to +60 88 485 300 or email firstname.lastname@example.com. Visit the website at www.divedownbelow.com.
7. Trail Running on Sabah's Challenging Terrains
Running is fun, rewarding and best of all, it creates a high. If you're already an advanced runner and constantly looking for new trails to explore, it's time you sign up for the Sabah Adventure Challenge.
Held once or twice yearly, the Sabah Adventure Challenge event lures runners and hardcore adventure seekers from all over the world to explore Sabah's wonderfully challenging terrains on two limbs.
One of the most popular ultra-marathon events in Malaysia, this event is definitely worth having in your bucket list.
For more info, visit www.sabahadventurechallenge.com.
8. Off-roading Adventure with the Borneo Safari International Off-road Challenge
For off-roading enthusiasts with a mean off-road vehicle for the mission, the Borneo Safari International Off-road Adventure is for you. Get challenged against Sabah's most spirit-breaking off-road terrains in this 1000-kilometer voyage that lasts for 10 days.
Find out what you're made of as you kiss goodbye to modern luxury and comfort and be forced to endure the Spartan life throughout this challenge. If this is not adventure, I don't know what is.
For more info, contact the Kinabalu Four Wheel Drive Club at telephone number +60 16 831 2997, fax to +60 88 210733 or email email@example.com. Visit the website at http://borneosafari.com.my.
9. White Water Rafting at Liwagu River
A fairly new tourism product, Liwagu River white water rafting provides a refreshing option for adventure paddlers who wish to discover a newer rafting site apart from Kiulu River and Padas River.
At 25-kilometer long, the rapids of Liwagu River's range from class II to IV—depending on the weather condition.
Surrounded by lush greenery and plenty of wildlife, there's just so much to see in this raw and secluded part of Sabah. Other than that, be sure to hold on tight and paddle hard!
For more info, contact Borneo Global Backpackers at telephone number +6088 – 270975 / 088 – 270976, or email email@example.com / firstname.lastname@example.com / email@example.com. Visit the website at www.bgbackpackers.com.
10. Surfing in Kudat
Whoever says that one has to go to Bali or Hawaii to enjoy surfing has clearly not been to Kudat.
While still relatively unknown in Sabah, surfing as a sport has definitely been thriving over the past few years.
Head on to Sikuati beach or Kalampunian beach in Kudat, which are some of the best surf spots in Sabah.
Don't know how to surf? No problem. Pick up surfing lessons at Tanjung Aru beach and get ready to hang ten!
For more info, contact Deep Borneo Sdn Bhd at firstname.lastname@example.com.


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Hey my lovely ladies and gentlemen!
Today I have something very special for you: a super cute ice cream design on my nails. What else would you aim for in summer? You can find all the details at Robin's blog today. I had the honor to write a guest post for her.
So head over to her blog and learn more - click here and you're directly there.
Have a nice weekend.


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|low graphics version | feedback | help
|You are in: Sport: Football: FA Carling Premiership
Monday, 29 November, 1999, 09:09 GMT
Highbury hails Henry the second
Arsenal 2-1 Derby
French striker Thierry Henry was the toast of Highbury with two goals on Sunday as Arsenal came from behind to beat Derby.
With the Gunners trailing to Dean Sturridge's surprise early opener, Ł10m record signing Henry found the target in either half to give his side the three points.
Victory takes Arsene Wenger's title-chasing team back into the top three of the Premiership.
But the result merely increases the problems for Jim Smith's relegation-threatened Derby, who remain rooted in the drop zone.
Henry - given a rare start ahead of Davor Suker and Kanu - produced a performance of strike play reminiscent of his fellow Frenchman Nicolas Anelka, who he replaced up front in the summer.
Twice his pace destroyed the Derby defence and finished with calm assurance.
And as Arsenal took complete control of the match after drawing level, he was unlucky not to claim a hat-trick.
Sturridge stunner
The Gunners may have been hot home favourites, but they suffered a sucker punch in the second minute of the game.
Derby's debutant Israeli Avi Nimni hit a through-ball which deflected off Tony Adams into the path of Sturridge, who clipped the ball over helpless Arsenal keeper Alex Manninger.
Shell-shocked they may have been, but Arsenal regrouped and nine minutes later they were level.
Marc Overmars created the chance, directing proceedings with a point of the finger before sending a slide-rule pass to Henry, who in turn side-footed past Derby keeper Mart Poom.
Henry could have put Arsenal ahead soon after but, when Spencer Prior made a hash of Dennis Bergkamp's pass, he shot into the side netting.
Henry was clearly enjoying his taste of first team action and four minutes before the break he thundered a ferocious 25-yard shot just wide with Poom well beaten
Derby, their marking all over the place, were under siege for long periods.
Overmars and Ray Parlour failed to hit the target with headers from corners.
And Poom also had to turn a fierce effort by Overmars round a post in first-half stoppage time before seeing Giles Grimandi hook a loose ball over the top.
Double act
But it only took six minutes of the second half before Overmars snapped into action with another finely-weighted ball that sent Henry in behind the Derby defenders and he drilled home the winner.
Derby never looked like breaking the chains of Arsenal's dominance after that - and only some slapdash finishing let them off a hiding.
Henry blasted over the bar and Stefan Malz was unlucky when he crashed a fierce drive against the underside of the bar after fellow substitute Suker laid the ball back.
And Emmanuel Petit, who shrugged off a knee injury to play, should have scored in stoppage time but, with the goal gaping, he tried to set up Kanu instead of having a shot himself and it caught the big Nigerian offside.
Arsenal: Manninger, Luzhny, Adams, Upson, Winterburn, Parlour,
Petit, Grimandi, Overmars, Henry, Bergkamp.
Derby: Poom, Prior, Carbonari, Laursen, Delap, Johnson, Powell,
Nimni, Dorigo, Sturridge, Burton.
Referee: A D`urso (Billericay)
Links to other FA Carling Premiership stories are at the foot of the page.
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text:
Golf Events Feedback
Our aim is to delight all of our customers and we are pleased to detail some feedback below.
From Rhys Denley Jones, Caseys Cause Charity Golf Day –
"Morning Gaynor
Love the photos! Look at that sky, how lucky were we!?
Yes we had a great day thankyou and everyone was very complimentary about the venue and your team there, please pass on my thanks to them. We raised over £2.5k for Casey so we're all really please with that
We'd be keen to look at returning next year on the same weekend if poss so I'll be in touch later in the year
Rhys Denley Jones | General Manager"
From Michael S, Trip Advisor Review –
"I can only review from a golfers point of view. The two courses are absolutely superb! Very well maintained and very diverse. I will definitely be going back. Finley at the pro shop is a lovely man and can't do enough for you. A very special place indeed. Felt very welcome upon entering the pro shop before tee off. And then when you're leaving it's never goodbye but 'hope to see you again soon' that's received. That goes a long way and speaks volumes in my opinion. That's the level of service you receive. Brilliant. I recommend Cottrell Park to anyone looking to play golf in South Wales."
From Cardiff Police Golf Society –
"Good morning Aimee
Thank you for the email we had a great day.
The course was in good condition considering it is November and the food after was really good.
We stayed in the club for a while to watch the rugby and have a few games of snooker which is a lovely added bonus.
Cottrell Park really is the perfect set up for society and golf days, hence the reason we come back every year sometimes more than once.
I even enjoy playing it as a 4 ball.
Thanks again. I am sure we will be back sometime early in the new year.
Kind Regards
From Matthew Mainwaring Golf Society –
"Hi Aimee
I'm writing this email to let you know of my experience when I visited Cottrell Park last Friday. I have never played there before in my 25 years of golf, and didn't know what to expect .
We all thoroughly enjoyed playing the course and was amazed at the service which we all received by all members of staff we encountered. I feel they went over and above their normal day to day tasks to make us feel welcome. They were accommodating, friendly and couldn't do enough for us, including the staff within the pro shop to those within the bar. Please could you pass on my sentiments to your colleagues.
I am looking forward to returning and playing there again. Thank you for a memorable day!
Kind regards
From Chris Martin, Minesweepers Society –
"Hi Katie,
Just like to say a big thank you to yourself and all the staff at Cottrell park GC. We had a great day despite the downturn in the afternoon weather, and look forward to returning to your wonderful club in the new year.
Many thanks from myself and all the Minesweepers society boys whom attended".
From Pam Cole, Tenby Golf Club –
"Good morning Aimee, I was going to email you today to thank you personally for helping me to arrange what was a really great trip to Cottrell yesterday. If you would like to use our photo for media purposes, that is absolutely fine.
I would also appreciate you thanking all of the staff for such a wonderful welcome and sleek service. From the rolls/tea/coffee at the start, the pro (Finbar – I may have that wrong?) who was so welcoming and helpful.
The catering staff at the end of our day were also very well organised and the service and care shown to us was second to none.
It was always my intention to post a review on social media and I will attend to that shortly. You and all at Cottrell can be sure that it will be a very good review.
Once again, on behalf of myself and all the ladies who were there yesterday, many, many thanks for a wonderful day and the opportunity to play a really lovely course. I am sure you will be seeing many of us ladies returning in the future.
Best regards,
Pam Cole – Ladies Captain, Tenby Golf Club"
From Leighton Freeman, Bob Hopeless Golf Society –
"Hi Gaynor
Everything was great thanks. Everyone loved the course and thought it was fantastic value for money. A few had food beforehand and the pint after was needed!
From Emyr Davies, Redrow Golf Day –
"Hi all,
Just a quick thank you for yesterday. Everything was perfect and feedback from guests was that they really enjoyed the day.
If you could extend Redrow's thanks to all staff for making the day run smoothly.
From Pennard Golf Club, Away Day –
"We had a great day. Organisation was superb. The course was beautifully set up for society golf and the meal and surroundings were first class.
Thank you all for making it a successful day.
We will be back!
From Lady Captain, Swansea Bay Golf Club –
"Dear Kate, thanks for sending our group photo, I'll make sure all our ladies see it. I think we picked the only day it rained this last month!! In spite of this we all had a great time thanks to you and the whole team at Cottrell Park, please pass on my thanks to everyone we met on the day. We would love to return – maybe next year!
Thanks again,
Brenda Rees (Lady Captain Swansea Bay Golf Club)"
From Admiral Insurance Golf Day –
"The day was a great success, the staff at Cottrell Park were welcoming, polite and helpful. I was first to arrive and from the initial introductions, organisation of the breakfasts to the buggies, the round itself and the food and bar afterwards, everything was professionally organised and all staff could not have been more helpful, a member of staff ever popped out on the course to ensure everything was going well. The course itself was in great condition, the rough was at the right length for the standard of players we had in the group and the greens were well maintained and ran great. Finally, the standard of the food as well as the service provided in the clubhouse was second to none. I have been to many clubs over the years on both society trips as well as club matches and can honestly say the food was some of the best I'm had.
Over all a great day, great course & well organised; I look forward to going back."
Admiral Insurance, Cardiff
From Roger Jones, Southerndown Golf Club –
"Hi Katie,
Just a quick thank you from the group for our Golf Day today. The course was in great condition, the welcome and food superb, and we even got away with the weather.
Hope to come back in the future.
Thanks again.
From Robert Jenner, Vale Golf Breaks Booking –
"Good Afternoon,
I just wanted to e-mail you and thank you for the wonderful weekend you provided me and my friends with this weekend.
All staff from the bar staff to yourselves at reception were happy and helpful and made us feel very welcome and you went above and beyond.
We have already talked about it and would definitely be returning, if not later in the year then next year.
You have a very beautiful resort with 2 lovely courses (even if we played them awfully).
Thank you again for everything.
Robert Jenner"
From Phil Green, B.L.O.B.S –
"Gaynor many thanks for the photo's and also for hosting our BLOB's Society yesterday. It is not the first time we have visited Cottrell Park and have enjoyed our visits each time. Yesterday was no exception we were well received and thoroughly enjoyed the day. Everyone from the pro shop through to the bar staff ensured we wanted for nothing. The food package as part of you 'Spring into Summer' offer was well received by all our members. Thanks again and I will put a positive comment on trip advisor.
Phil Green"
From Neil Jenkins, Aylesbury Park Tour GS –
"Hi Gaynor
Thanks for looking after us at Cottrell Park Golf Club on Saturday, all the staff were fantastic and made the day a great event, the catering staff made everyone very happy with the steak and ale pie!!
Please also pass on our thanks to the green staff for presenting the course in good nick!
We would like to join you again next year on Saturday 27th April if possible, playing The Mackintosh again. Would it be possible to reserve at present because I don't start collecting monies for a while and would it be possible to tee off as close to 10.30am as possible?
I look forward to your reply.
Best Regards
From Hywel Williams –
"Fantastic, Gaynor. It was a really great day. The weather helped, but it was also how well we were looked after from the moment I turned up to the moment I was served my delicious chicken curry. Best day we've had so far as a society. I'll always advocate going back.
From Glyn Price –
"Hi there Shelley
Just to say a big thank you for such a great day. Ben looked after us really well in the morning. The weather was fab, and a lovely meal afterwards.
All the boys were up for returning later in the season, and possibly play The Button course.
Thanks once again
From Tony Morgan –
"To All,
Thank you for a great day last Saturday (Tony Morgan Golf Day), our guys (mostly Machynys Members) had a really great time and thoroughly enjoyed the course and a few drinks afterwards.
Really appreciated the warm welcome and the effort in putting out the nearest pin / longest drive markers.
Look forward to returning, ….
Kindest regards
From Steve Weitz –
The service provided by everyone was fantastic and I have left feedback on Trip Advisor to that effect as well.
We were all so impressed, we have organised a full day with you on 22nd June and are already looking forward to enjoying the hospitality and hopefully warmer weather!
All of the staff we encountered were a credit to you and you were a pleasure to deal with, thanks to all of them also please.
Steve Weitz"
From Steve's Society Day –
"Our Golf society of 12 members visited Cottrell Park on the 3rd Nov. We received a warm welcome from Bar Staff, were shown to a room already set out for our bacon rolls and coffee. Later we were met at the first tee and had team photo taken, and given relevant advice on the course.
"The course itself was in first class condition, especially for the time of year. Upon return to the clubhouse our table was already set and the meal was subsequently served promptly by the staff. From the initial telephone call to the club booking the day through to the meal after the golf the whole experience was excellent. Very professional and welcoming and head and shoulders above many other golf clubs in the area. Would highly recommend this venue, we played the Mackintosh course and thoroughly enjoyed it."
Steve, Society Day"
From Howard Chapman, Sharpie Tour –
"It was easy and a pleasure to book it all up through Gaynor in the office. And everything was brilliant from the moment we arrived. Easy to find and park. Friendly and efficient bar staff who couldn't do enough to make sure we were happy and had all we needed – and a great breakfast. Facilities good. Very helpful and efficient in the Pro shop and all the staff. Well sign posted to the courses, and getting around them. Courses great and in lovely condition – everyone particularly commented on the great greens. Courses perfect for society golf – difficult enough that if you played a bad shot then you're penalised for it but not so harsh that it 'kills' your round – so great fun to play. Great setting, interesting and pretty holes, and some fantastic views. Lovely touch putting out really nice NP signs, markers and measuring tapes for us – so many place just don't bother for you, so a really nice touch that was much appreciated. Personally, I'd say Cottrell Park is probably overall the best place I have visited on a society trip."
From Teg Bevan, Junior Championship and Channel League Coordinator SWBGA Coordinator for Glamorgan –
"To Derek and the Team at Cottrell Park, firstly what an amazing day we had, all 5 Counties were so impressed with your facilities your attention to detail and your care and dedication.
For me it was one of the best tournaments I have run in years and it was down to you all on the day, when you close at the end of a day and reflect on the personalities who gave such service and remember their names it is a statement of the impact you all had on the event.
So to Ben, Amy, Jordan, Estyn, Frazer, Sarah and Kev many thanks for a making a great event so special.
Many Thanks
Teg Bevan"
From Arthur Rees, Monday Challenge Newport Golf Club –
"Just a note to say how much our party enjoyed our day yesterday at Cottrell Park, although the coursde played long in difficult weather conditions it loked splendid.
The catering excellent and the whole ambience of the visit was lovely and the staff in all areas impressed us greatly, please pass on our comments to the relevant people.
Lastly I would like to thank you once again for teh help and courtesy you have afforded me in trying to organise the trip – it is much appreciated and valued.
Best Wishes
Arthur Rees"
From Helen Evans, Golden Oldies –
"Hi Gaynor. Just to say thank you for everything as regards our golf day at Cottrell Park. Our Golden Oldies get together is really looked forward to by our older ex – hockey ladies. It is a chance just once a year for them to see everyone and catch up on all their news. We were very lucky with the weather, it was a wonderful day, and the meal was excellent. Please pass on my thanks to Derek and his staff who were – as always, – very helpful and accommodating.
They will be back next year. !!!!, Helen Evans."
From Paul Taylor, Folley Tower Golf Society –
"Hi Aimee,
On behalf off my golf colleagues may I extend their thanks for a very enjoyable day at Cottrell.For many of the players it was their first experience of playing on the course,
and they were all very impressed with the course layout ,condition and facilitys.
We all hope to return at a future date.
Kindest Regards,
Paul Taylor"
From Colin Mundell, Golf Day –
"Hello Katie,
I can honestly say that everyone enjoyed their day out, the course was known to a few, but many had played it for the first time, including myself.
On arrival we were met by your staff in the pro shop, who where all very professional and accommodating. Nothing seemed to be of any trouble to them.
The course was in very good condition, I would only add that it might be a good idea to drain the many water hazards and lakes as more than a few balls ended up wet !!!!
We were also looked after in the bar and restaurant after the golf, and would have to in particular mention a young lady called Sarah, who looked after us all afternoon, once again nothing was too much trouble for her, and she made us all very welcome.
The meal was very good, so if you could pass our compliments on the kitchen staff it would be very much appreciated.
Once again many thanks to you and all the staff at Cottrell Park for a very enjoyable day.
From David Cadwallader, Blueys Boys 2017 Visit –
"Can I take this opportunity to thank you for your fantastic help to ensure our golf day went off with out a hitch as always we were warmly welcomed and we just love coming to Cottrell Park the course was in brilliant condition and the boys managed to get around without getting wet in what turned out to be a stormy afternoon.
Kind Regards
From the Ladies section at Llanwern Golf Club –
"Thank you very much Aimee, the day was really great – we will ignore the weather! – all the staff couldn't have been nicer and so friendly, it made our day really special. Please pass our thanks to everyone and we look forward to seeing you all again soon.
Gill Johnson
Ladies Captain
Llanwern Golf Club"
From Ashburnham Vets Away Day –
On behalf of the Ashburnham Vets, I would like to thank you and all those involved with the arrangements for last Fridays event at your venue.
The day was most enjoyable and all those attending had a good day.
Ray Bignell"
From Dudley, Tenby Golf Club –
Thanks for arranging our visit yesterday!
We had an excellent day. Even the weather played it's part.
I asked our players if they would like to play the course again and it was a unanimous 'yes'.
Many thanks,
Lexis Nexis Risk Soultions, Corporate Golf Day –
"Hi Gaynor
Many thanks indeed for all the help from you & your team on Tuesday. Everyone had a brilliant time, getting suitably sunburnt in the process!
I was particularly appreciative of the flexibility with the food, given how slow some of the groups had been to get round, so thanks again for that.
Best regards
From Llandaff Dads Golf Society Day –
"Shelley .. apologies for delay in responding.. it was an awesome day.. the guys absolutely loved it.. everything went brilliantly well.. one of the great highlights was playing snooker and pool for four hours!! Maybe as part of packages you could book that room out to groups? We were fine because no one else was using it.. but we'd certainly want to use it next time as well!!
Thanks for all your help!
Alistair McGhie"
Trip Advisor Review – May 2017-
"Cottrell Park just off the A48 in the Vale of Glamorgan has two courses the Mackintosh and the Button. We played the Button on a deal for two players with a buggy which was well priced considering the quality of the course. From the moment we arrived the staff were courteous and efficient. We were made to feel welcome and the check in for our round could not have been smoother. The course was in excellent condition although I felt the greens were slower than I expected. The views from the course of both the Channel and the Vale are stunning and are almost worth the walk alone. The '19th' is a welcoming place with again friendly and helpful staff. The patio area on a warm evening is a lovely place to sit and discuss your round and the ones that got away. Although we didn't eat, the food coming out from the kitchen looked good and the portions more than ample. Access to the club house is very good as are the changing facilties and billiard room. The Pro shop is well stocked and the prices quite reasonable. We'll worth a visit."
From Maria McGuigan and Stephanie Davies, Maggies Charity Golf Day –
"Hi Gaynor
My apologies, I have been meaning to contact you to thank you for all your help on the day. It went extremely well and we have had fantastic feedback.
Both you and Ben made it all very easy for us for which we're hugely grateful, and we're already thinking about making it a regular event.
Many thanks once again,
Maria and Steph"
Customer Feedback from Golf Day –
"The deal you gave us £26, bacon rolls (excellent) coffee, golf on Mackintosh and chef's special (curry) is by far the best value society deal in Wales. Our society has been going for 17 year and this is the best deal so far. Fraser was a credit to your company."
From Tina Hughes, Pontypridd Ladies –
"Hi Shelley. I'm sorry that we didn't get to meet up yesterday but I would really like to thank you and all your colleagues for the warm welcome and help from the moment that we arrived. Everyone went out of their way to ensure that we had a great day, and a great day we all had!!
The course was amazing and the food was delicious. We can't wait to come back. Please pass our thanks to everyone. Tina and the Pontypridd Ladies x"
From Morlais Castle Seniors Away Day 2017, –
"Every part of the day went smoothly from the arrival on site, to the meal in the evening. Bacon rolls on arrival , first class Mackintosh course, couple of pints on the patio, finished off with an excellent two couse meal. First class service from the staff throughout, especially Chloe and Sarah from the hospitality team who looked after us throughout our visit. Excellent day out at a fair price."
From Cadig Golf Society. –
From Roger Jones, –
"Hi Shelley/Gaynor
Just a quick thank you on behalf of our group for our golf day today.
With your help the organising was very straight forward, and the assistance given today by our staff was first class.
Likewise the food was superb and even the sun came out.
I'm sure we will be back in the future.
Thanks again.
From Clive Williams, Garden Village AFC –
"Thoroughly satisfied with the way in which our Society Golf Day was managed both in advance of and on the day. All of the staff were most courteous and welcoming, the course was in excellent condition and the food was first class. Would definitely recommend to any group of golfers looking for a good day out."
From Clive Kitchen, Chartered Safety & Health Practitioner –
"Good Morning Shelly,
I would like to thank you for the complimentary fourball and luncheon voucher, we had a fabulous day and the food was excellent.
The Mach course was in great condition as always and I would have no hesitation recommending Cottrell park golf club to all my friends, family and customers. Once again thank you for a fab day.
Kind regards
From Phil Girling, Dawn to Dusk Charity Day –
"Hello Esther
I just wanted to thank you again for your support for our Dawn-to-Dusk Charity Day on 19th June and to let you know that we raised £2,885 for Cancer Research UK.
I'm planning to keep it as an annual event so will be in touch next year, please could you pass on my thanks to your staff.
Best wishes
From Gareth Jones , WAO Golf Day –
Just a quick email to thank you and all of the staff at Cottrell Park for the excellent service that we received from arrival, on the course and in the clubhouse.
We were made to feel most welcome.
We were unable to take advantage of the simulator due to unforeseen delays in work that afternoon but those who used it enjoyed the experience.
The course was in great condition.
Kind regards
From Tina Hughes, Lady Captains Away Day –
"Hi Kate. We had a great day. Your team are super. They made us so welcome, nothing was too much trouble. I'm so glad that I chose Cottrell Park!! See you soon xx"
From Michael Castle, Mackintosh Tennis Club –
"Hi Gaynor,
We all had a fantastic time yesterday and cannot thank you enough for your hospitality on and off course. Esther was incredibly helpful with any information and getting the event booked and the course played great.
We will no doubt be looking to organise a similar event in the near future.
All the team from Mackintosh Lawn Tennis Club wish to extend their thanks to you and the team at Cottrell Park.
I will complete the trip advisor review and questionnaire for you shortly.
Thanks again,
Michael Castle"
From Michael Cox, CSSC Golf Day –
"Hi Esther
I just wanted to say a huge thank you for last Friday. Please pass on my thanks to all the staff at Cottrell Park, For the condition of the course to supply of food and beverages and all of you in the shop.
I have had nothing but praise from all those who took part. The only complaint being is who ordered the rain???
I encouraged feedback from the players and have also written out to those who didn't attend to best understand why. Although I had a few isolated cases of people saying they would prefer not to play 36 holes the majority thoroughly enjoyed both courses. I will say your Button course has come on leaps since I last played it 3 years ago. Please pass on my praise to the catering staff as well, couldn't fault the food , had excellent feedback from the guys and I personally thought the Beef Bourguignon was stunning!!
So I don't want to hesitate I would like to get next year pencilled in if we could (subject to the costs meeting our budgets) For Friday 14th July provisionally at this stage. Hope this is possible?
Many thanks
From Nick Perry, Falcons Golf Society –
"Hi Esther
Just a short note to thank you! and all of the team, for a really good afternoon last Friday. It makes such a difference when you are greeted and everything is looked after for you, to make sure that our day goes so smoothly.
All of our members were very complimentary about the standard of the course, the views and the lovely meal in the evening.
Ben and Andy made the golf very easy to organise with their attention to detail and Angela and the bar team were great in their assistance with our food in the evening.
Thank you to you personally, for all your assistance with me in organising the day beforehand.
Please can we arrange to come back again next year? It will be Friday 7 July 2017, and as there shouldn't be any football going on, we should hopefully have more members attending!
I look forward to hearing from you.
From Malcolm Warby, Peterstone Lakes Seniors –
"Hi Gaynor,
Thank you. We had a most enjoyable day, which passed without a hitch, and we all thought your greens superb. In fact 4 of us stayed to 8.30pm playing snooker, a long day! All your staff were most attentive and we will certainly seek to come again hopefully with a few more members in tow.
Malcolm Warby"
From Margaret Thomas, Golden Oldies –
"Dear Esther,
Thank you so much for your patience and help in the organisation of the Golden Oldies' Golf Day at Cottrell Park on Friday 3rd October. Everyone was very complimentary about the course, the meal and staff – music to ones' ears! Perhaps you would pass this message onto Derek?
Many thanks once again,
Maggie Thomas"
From John McNamara, Cardiff Corries Vets –
"Hi Gaynor,
Just wanted to say a big thank you for your help with our golf day.
The feedback from the guys was that the course was superb and the food excellent so we will definitely be coming back next year.
John McNamara"
From Paul Duffy, Cardiff College Old Boys –
"Thanks Gaynor, we had a great day, administration great, thanks Esther, welcome very good and food was excellent this year.
Should see us again same weekend next year, so Esther if you can book us in for the 14th September (if that's a Saturday) same tee off time, same numbers that would be great.
Many thanks, Paul"
From Tony Westren, Worlebury Avalon –
"Hi Esther,
Just wanted to say thanks for a great day yesterday, please pass on my appreciation to all the staff at Cottrell Park for their help and support throughout the day, from Ben (the photographer) in the simulator room to Jan & her staff in the restaurant.
All of the players from Worlebury were suitably impressed with all the arrangements we made and left very happy!
Thanks again and I hope we will visit Cottrell Park in the future.
Tony Westren
Worlebury Avalon Captain 2014"
From David Cadwallader, Bluey's Swansea Tour –
"Good Morning Gaynor
Can I take this opportunity to thank you personally for the way you looked after me personally during our Society golf Day Sunday 7th September it was very much appreciated as I was unable to play due to my illness.
Can I also thank you again on behalf of the Society and all the staff at Cottrell Park for making our Society Day a wonderful success it is always a pleasure to bring our society to this wonderful golfing resort with two fantastic courses ideal for Society golf year after year.
As always the friendliness of everyone at the club was superb from the moment we booked in to our time in the bar everything was perfectly organised and having the golf buggies ready and the correct number held for us was top class.
Can you please pass on my thanks to Andy for helping with the cards, and taking the group photograph on the first tee a very nice touch and well appreciated, I shall be passing on copies to all the lads also thanks to all the Bar Staff they were all very helpful and just great.
Can you also pass on our thanks to the green keeper and his staff, they are the hidden gems out of the limelight but they are the ones who make the Golf course what they are, the course and greens were in superb condition a credit to everyone at the Resort.
We have always enjoyed our visits to Cottrell Park this being our 4th consecutive tour and we will return.
Thank you all again.
I look forward to being in contact with you in January after our AGM to confirm next year's numbers and forward the deposit.
Kind regards
From Ben Crudge, Canton Rangers Golf Society –
I would like to thank you for facilitating a fantastic day on Sunday; we all had a memorable and enjoyable time.
I would particularly like to thank your staff on the day for creating a relaxed and welcoming environment. I have played in several societies around the South Wales area and I found the service you provided head and shoulders above other courses in the local area.
Thanks again, we will definitely be back next year!
From Pete Neilens, Ross Friday Crowd –
"Hi Esther and staff,
Just a short note to thank you all for organising a great day for us yesterday.
Everyone at Cottrell Park was friendly and helpful, the course was in fantastic condition and the food was excellent.
Every person in our group said how much they enjoyed they day and we all look forward to coming back soon.
Many thanks,
Pete Neilens"
From Steve Graham, Nomads Golf Society –
Thank you for helping organise today's society day for us.
Despite the weather, everybody had a good day and enjoyed the course,
and how well it was prepared. The food was excellent and the use of the
Simulator this morning was great fun. Please thank everyone for making it a great day, and we hope to visit you again, maybe next year. Thanks again, Steve"
From Kevin Hardy, Frostechnic –
Thank you for organising a superb trip for us.
The golf club & courses were excellent, the staff were very helpful & friendly & it went as smoothly as any golf experience I have been on. The Future Inn in Cardiff Bay was a great hotel & we couldn't have wished for any better.
It was a great golfing experience & thank you for the picture, a great touch.
Thanks again for a great trip.
From Steve Bishop, Drillman's Arms Golf Society –
"Great service and a great golf set up. Looking for a friendly golf course to take your society to, then Cottrell Park is the ideal venue. Excellent package, golf simulator to get you in the groove, bacon bap and coffee, 18 holes on one of the two 18 hole courses followed by two course meal after the round all for under £40. Great value."
From Martin Mitchell, Members from Southerndown GC –
"On behalf of the 8 players from Southerndown GC, nicknamed the Wurzel Tour, we would like to thank you for the hospitality shown to us last Saturday morning.
Our particular thanks to the assistant pro on the day who made us very welcome and guided us through the simulator again, his customer service skills are to be applauded and could well be used at many other establishments that seem to lack these simple basics.
The course was very playable and at least this year it didn't rain although I think we all got caught out by how cold it was compared to forecast (note to self, pack extra jumper!)
Also thanks to the catering staff for the bacon baps and lovely curry afterwards.
This was our third annual visit and I see no reason why we shouldn't continue to visit CPGC each year.
Many thanks again
Martin Mitchell"
From Barry Chambers –
"Dear Esther, Thank you for the photograph. We all had a tremendous weekend despite the weather. Your organisation helped the weekend run so smoothly you were excellent. Would also like to mention Ben and Adam who where also of great help in making our weekend a good golfing experience.
Thank you all, Barry"
From Matt Beynon –
"Hi, Would like to say thank you for the warm friendly welcome yesterday on behalf of all 12 members of Measteg golf club.
The course condition was very good and the food was a high standard.
We are all very happy with the day and will be arranging another day in the near future.
Thank you Matt Beynon"
From Dave Cadwallader –
"Thanks very much for your warm welcome yesterday. We had a great day, the course was in marvelous condition and the weather held off, we could not have asked for more. Thanks also for the photo it just adds to the wonderful experience of Cottrell Park. We shall do it all again next year god willing, so can you pencil us in for Sunday 7th September 2014, 20 golfer, 10 buggies, 10.00am tee off Button course. Thanks again to everyone at Cottrell Park!
Regards Dave"
From Peter Allen –
"Just a quick note to thank you for a great day, please thank all of the staff who helped making it such fun for all of us and we look forward to seeing you again.
Peter Allen"
From Neil Nunnerley –
"From All of us, we would like to thank your team for making our day run smoothly, your course and greens are in excellent condition, the hospitality shown was second to none, the use of the facilities was enjoyed to late into the evening by myself and a few colleagues. During our lunch we were already planning our return trip. Very much appreciated and many thanks. Keep up the good work and we will see you very soon. Thanks for sending the photo so soon and for giving us a great day. Regards Neil Nunnerley"
From Keith Morgan, The Gower Boys –
"Thank you Esther for a brilliant day. Everyone was very impressed with the courses especially the greens. Could you please pass on our thanks to William and the catering staff for great service and excellent food. The pro shop staff as well including Ben for starting us, and the quick work in sending the photo. Not forgetting yourself for all your work and phone calls to help me organise the day. Thank you to you all for a very professional attitude Cottrell Park Golf Resort should be very proud of you all. Cheers Keith on behalf of the Gower Boys"
From Dean Tilley, MT Golf Society –
"I personally wanted to thank yourself and all the staff at Cottrell Park for your kind hospitality during our visit last weekend.
Having spoken to many of my society members over the weekend, we concluded that over the 8 years we have been travelling the UK with our society, the quality of the facilities and food, value for money and the 2 courses we played (although a little wet as expected in October) is the best we have experienced to date.
We would very much like to return to Cottrell Park in the future and will fully recommend anyone visiting should they be thinking of doing so.
I will comment on your trip advisor page this week to ensure I promote Cottrell Park, as it deserves to be.
Once again, thank you.
Kind regards
Dean Tilley"
From Philip Smith, Smith Boys Society –
"To all at Cottrell Park for an excellent day, I attended your organisers day at Cottrell Park Friday 28thSeptember.
As soon as my golfing partner and I walked into the club we were met with a smile and a fantastic welcome.
Not to mention the coffee and bacon roll, which was much, appreciated.
The day got better when on the course with an excellently presented course and greens.
The day was completed with a well-presented buffet and presentation.
Please pass on my thanks to all that made it a fantastic day.
I will be in touch when organising our next society day in work.
Many thanks PHILIP SMITH ( BT OPENREACH )"
From Mark Bennett, Genesis Distribution –
"Many thanks for the photo and the excellent hospitality extended by everyone involved on the day, I think it is fair to say everyone thoroughly enjoyed both the golf and the subsequent meal and entertainment.
Many thanks & Kind Regards
Mark Bennett (Managing Director)"
From Samuel Payne, Newport Police Station Golf Society –
"Can you pass on my thanks to the staff at Cottrell Park for looking after us yesterday. Everyone who played enjoyed the experience and are keen to come back and play the Button course soon. There were some photographs taken on the 1sttee by one of the staff, can these be forwarded to me so I can place them in our internal publication? I will ensure that Cottrell Park gets a good write up!
Regards Sam"


text:
|Size: 450×450mm
Product Details
|Printed 3D polymer on viscose/polyamide
|Color Option
|Made in Tel Aviv, Israel
|Hand-made craft, designed by Mika Barr
Delivery Info
|Delivery Type
|Ships Worldwide from Hong Kong
|Delivery Details
|International Shipping Est. 7 Working Days, Refer to delivery policy
|Returns Policy
|Refer to return policy
Contact Us
|+852 3621 0751
|Showroom Address
|Refer to Contact Us
|Opening Hours
|Refer to Contact Us
Handmade Silk-Print Technique
The textiles are made in a unique process, in which the image defines the fabric's dropping and folding. The light, elastic textiles are combined with a material that indicates the nature of the fabric's movement and creates a new, three-dimensional textile structure. Besides forming sculptural elements, the textiles are used in various fields - furniture, lighting, fashion and accessories.
Studio Mikabarr is a textile and print design studio, formed in 2012 and based in Tel Aviv.Using various printing techniques, Mika Barr creates and develops innovative and award winning 3D textiles and products for interiors and fashion.
Visit EMOH Decorist Site
EMOH showroom shows the latest and stylish display furniture to inspire you. Visit us and find out more. Know more.


text: Caiden & Keller Homes stands by a variety of world class brand name products, for each vital component of your new home. Sourcing appliances from local retailers allowing home designers or home buyers a selection superior to catalogue choices to ensure the appliances you choose compliment your home and personal needs. At Caiden and Keller Homes we are focused on satisfaction all ways and always.


text:
Focussing on documentation
Posted by Tom on 2007-05-03
The forums are getting really busy, which is a great sign that Hobo is starting to gain some mind-share. It's so busy that it's getting harder for me to keep up. If you look at a few posts, it quickly becomes clear that the main issue is lack of documentation. There's an obvious conclusion here - writing docs is a better way for me to help you all than answering lots of individual questions.
Up until now I've had a kind of "no unanswered questions" attitude to the forum, but I don't think it's sensible to carry on like that. I've set aside a chunk of time each day to keep the Hobo community ticking along, and for now I'm going to try and focus a bit more on documentation and a bit less on the forums.
I'll still follow the forums closely of course, and reply to the more challenging questions and bug reports, so you'll still see lots of posts from me. Those of you that have dived into the source and learnt Hobo the hard way – it would be great if you could help out in the forums with some of the more basic questions.


text:
Michael Nesmith
Photo: © Alexandra Battaglia
About the Author
MICHAEL NESMITH's career in music and television took him from starring in The Monkees to a celebrated run of albums as a solo artist and in the First National Band. He created the TV show Popclips, a forerunner of what would become MTV, and produced the films Repo Man and Tapeheads. He is the author of two novels and the founder of the Pacific Arts Corporation, which produces projects in the worlds of audio, video, and virtual reality, including Videoranch 3D. He lives in Carmel, California.


text:
Review: The Legend of Zelda – Hyrule Historia
There are very few series – in any medium – that have survived the test of time. It should be appropriate, then, that the Hero of Time would be one of the only ones to make it through.
The Legend of Zelda. Those four words (and those four notes) can elicit all kinds of emotions in gamers young and old. I can remember the first Zelda I've played, and how old I was when it happened. (Zelda II: Adventure of Link, 7 years old.) I can remember the first Zelda I successfully finished myself (Ocarina of Time), and the feel of the controller in my hand as I mashed the A button to render Ganon asunder. I recall friends who named their Link "Aquascum" just so they could see Ganondof scream, "Curse you, Aquascum!" as he fell, defeated. And, I suspect, most wizened gamers have the very same memories. (Maybe not that last one.)
From its humble NES beginning throwing you into a beige field where an Old Man awaited to give you your first wooden sword, the tales of the Princess Zelda and her young hero, Link, have reached the hearts of many across the world. There are few who don't have that twinge of comfort and nostalgia when thinking of the Nintendo-bred series.
And that's why you'll buy The Legend of Zelda: Hyrule Historia, available today from Dark Horse.
Finally translated into English after being released in Japan in 2011, Hyrule Historia celebrates the 25th anniversary of the fabeled game series. The 280-page tome collects tons of stunning art and nuggets of behind-the-scenes information that any discerning Zelda fan would want. The book details the in-game mythology behind each story, interwoven among the much-discussed official timeline for the games.
Hit the jump for our full review of this much-anticipated Zelda release!


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'Alice in Wonderland' at the London Coliseum, 2007
The National Ballet production saw Kieve designing stunts that made Alice appear to mysteriously stretch onstage. Apparently achieved by a combination of lighting and viewing angles, he also made a giant teapot seem to float and a playing card transform into the Queen of Hearts.
'The Invisible Man' at the Theatre Royal Stratford East, 1991
One of the illusionist's earliest tasks was in 1991 when, aged 24, he was asked to design all the invisibility effects for The Invisible Man. His widely acclaimed stunts included an actor unwinding bandages from his head to reveal nothing beneath and cigarettes appearing to smoke themselves in mid-air. In a later version of the play last year, Kieve added more effects that saw papers being shuffled and curtains drawn by seemingly invisible hands.
'Theatre of Blood' at the National Theatre, 2005
Kieve was tasked with making a girl look like she had been impaled with nine needles. He later admitted that the stunts for Theatre of Blood had been some of the most challenging he had faced as an illusionist. Another scene involved a live poodle appearing to be killed in a liquidiser before being eaten in a pie.
'Scrooge The Musical' at the Grand Canal Theatre, 2010
The play itself received average reviews but critics were still impressed by Kieve's work. The Ghost of Christmas Past was summoned from nowhere to inhabit a chair that had been on stage throughout, and the ghost of the future seemed to float about the stage at 12ft tall.
'Carnesky's Ghost Train', Blackpool, 2004
Marisa Carnesky's unusual ghost train ride-cum-theatre show experience owes many of its special effects to Kieve. These include women seeming to sever their own legs, birds appearing to peck women to death and revolving phantoms, all contrived to scare audiences witless.


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Stretching over 30 hectares, Locks Common is one of Bridgend County Borough Council's dedicated Local Nature Reserve (LNR) sites. These sites are conservation areas set aside for people to enjoy nature and learn about wildlife and the landscape. Locks Common is a large area of grassland, heath and limestone pavement situated immediately to the west of the seaside town of Porthcawl.
Locks Common begins at the end-point of the original Porthcawl promenade, which was built in 1887 to celebrate Queen Victoria's Jubilee year. The varied infrastructure of this reserve supports a huge variety of birds, butterflies and wildflowers. The rugged, though reasonably flat area stretches through to Rest Bay beach on the west. It's a popular family beach and also a great favourite with surfers. If you're looking for walks with superb panoramic views of Rest Bay and the Bristol Channel, then Locks Common is the perfect place! You can follow a number of footpaths across the reserve, and a newly constructed pedestrian and cycle path runs parallel to the common if you want an alternative way to reach Rest Bay. If you're a keen photographer, don't forget your camera! On a clear day you can see the Devon Coastline and Swansea Bay in the distance - the landscape photography opportunities are fantastic.
What will I find? Locks Common comprises a very varied landscape, and as you explore you'll find different types of species depending on the path you choose to take. The area of limestone that forms part of the reserve is scattered over 2 hectares. Whilst this may seem an unusual feature for a nature reserve, it provides a habitat for species you're unlikely to see in many of our more rural reserves around Bridgend county. These include Salad Burnet, Eyebright and Squinancywort. This important limestone feature has resulted in Locks Common being designated as a Regionally Important Geological Site as well as a Local Nature Reserve. If you venture across the pathways beyond the limestone area, look out for the beautiful blue flower of Spring Squill. You'll probably also come across our resident Stonechats. These small birds flicker their wings while perched and are oftenseen on the tops of low bushes. As the name suggests, they utter a sharp loud call that sound like two stones tapping together.
Locks Common Trails Path: Large areas of flat limestone pavement suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Footpaths over the natural areas may be muddy and uneven in parts.
Look out for… I grow here.. Rock Samphire, Bird's Foot Trefoil, Heather, Spring Squill, Salad Burnet, Eyebright, Squinancywort
I live here.. Lesser Black Backed Gull, Blue Tit, Kestrel, Rock Pipit, Robin, Skylark, Stonechat, Harbour Porpoise, Fox
If you're exploring Locks Common and you spot these or other species, please take a photograph or let us know.
Add a bit of history Locks Common has a long history of sheep and cattle grazing, but has also seen other uses. Before the first world war it was used as a golf course and it has even seen use as a military training area! To find out more about the history of the area surrounding Locks Common, please visit: www.bridgendbites.com
Where is Locks Common? Locks Common is situated to the west of Porthcawl town centre. If you are using Sat Nav to find Locks Common, please use postcode: CF36 3UP. Access Access to Locks Common is from the end of the promenade in Porthcawl town or from Rest Bay to the west of the town. Please see the map for details and for car-parking options. Parking Public car parks are available in Porthcawl Town Centre and parking is available around Rest Bay. Please see map for details.
Where next? To find out more about Bridgend's beautiful Local Nature Reserves, please look for the following links on this website: * Frog Pond Wood * Craig y parcau * Tremains Wood * Kenfig National Nature Reserve
21 August 2019:00:04 - 21 August 2019:00:04
Upcoming Event Breeding Birds of Locks Common Saturday 9th May 2015


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Long Hairstyles, the best suitable hairstyles for round faces are those which are accompanied with sleek long locks. Such hairstyles give your nice-looking hair appearance and frame the round faces in a flattering way, making them appear longer. Long hairstyle with layers is a versatile and adorable hairstyle that never go out of fashion and works the best to deemphasize the roundness of face. Try the given-below styles.
Long Hairstyles
Adorable Long Hairstyles For Round Faces:
Long Layers All Around:
This versatile and awesome hairstyle is special for those who want to get a glamorous hair look without reducing perceptible length of hair. With all around layers in the front section and lengthy lustrous locks at the back, this hairstyle elongates a round face shape and makes you feel confident. To rock this style, curl your freshly-washed and dried hair (section by section) using ½-inch curling iron, then loosen the curls by combing with your fingers and finish with a good-quality hairspray.
Long Layers with Side Bangs:
If you are looking for a stylish and chic hairstyle for long hair to deemphasize the roundness of your face, the long layers with side bangs is best for you. This hairstyle adds a nice framing around your face, making it appear longer with touch of style. To rock this hairstyle, firstly wash and condition your hair and use a medium round brush to dry it. Style the bangs as you desire and apply a hairspray.
Long Layers with No Bangs plus Curls:
Here is another chic and fantastic long hairstyle for round faces; incorporate your fine long hair with some long layers all around and then add some curls using 1-inch curling iron to get a fancy look. Don't forget separate and loosen the curls by combing them through with your fingers before applying hairspray.


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CB's Patreon and entertainment for you!
I know CB would never post this here so I'll do it for him. If you like CB's books, poetry, short stories, and all the entertainment he has created for the community over the years, please consider supporting his Patreon.
"For as little as $1 a month" like one of those "less than the cost of a cup of coffee..." commercials.
Thanks, Brian!
This community does so much to support and encourage me. I'm perpetually grateful to all of you.
To clarify the deal is this:
Supporting me on Patreon is kind of like a subscription to Manawaker Studio. The basic 1$/month tier gets you my weekly short short fiction pieces, which show up in the Patreon feed. You may have seen snippets of these show up on Facebook, if you're my facebook friend. All last year, I was posting these free to everyone, but that was causing problems when I tried to get them published later, so I've switched to this 'tiny pay-wall' system for those stories.
Supporting at a higher tier will get you a subscription to all Manawaker books, as eBooks or as physical books, depending on which tier you choose.
In addition, there are milestones that will be hit when the patronage reaches certain levels, and that unlocks things either for everyone or just for the supporters, depending on the milestone. One of them has been hit just yesterday after Brian posted this, and that means I'm going to make t-shirts available soon. The next Milestone will mean a new weekly fiction project on the blog for everyone.
TL;DR: The main reason you would want to be my patron is the classic one: You like what I'm making, and you want to help me make it, but there are other neat things that can go along with that, if you like.
Thanks everyone for considering it.7
Thanks to the Patrons, there is a new weekly feature at Manawaker: Recycled Comics, in which I take old comics, and give them new words. The first page of the first book went up today.1
Zanthian Mitey Worrier
Thanks for that perk CB0


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By Ralph Winingham
For the Express-News
CORPUS CHRISTI — When the chilly fingers of a winter front stretch toward the Texas Gulf Coast, fishing tactics shift a little and chances improve for some hot action hooking up with a mixture of saltwater species.
"The fish seem to become a little more sluggish in the winter and they change their feeding habits," said veteran guide, Capt. Joey Farah, as he pulled out of Marker 37 Marina on a recent trip.
"The best time to be on the water is just before or just after a cold front moves through, and you have to watch the minor and major lunar feeding times. The moon phase seems to be more important when the fish have slowed down their feeding for winter."
Farah, who has been pitting his skills against all kinds of saltwater trophies in the Corpus Christi area since he was 6 years old, has developed a special bag of tricks to handle cold-weather action.
One of the first examples of his experience was demonstrated when a heavy fog bank — a semi-regular weather phenomena in the winter months — reduced visibility on the water to a minimum.
"We'll stay along the King Ranch shoreline for a while as we head toward the Land Cut," said Farah, easing his boat over bay waters he has cruised many times in all types of weather.
"The fog typically comes from the west wind blowing over the warmer land onto the water. A lot of times, the shoreline area will be clear."
After about 90 minutes of cutting in and out of the fog, Farah pulled into an area of the Land Cut where he knew a former road bed had formed a gravel-bottomed drop off at the edge of the cut.
"Drop-offs form kind of a fish funnel and help congregate all kinds of fish looking for something to eat," he said. "On days like today, the wind will shift from the west to the east or southeast, and that will really stack them up along that bank."
Fishing action was slow at first — typically the hottest winter saltwater action takes place well into the morning or in early afternoon — but the catch did include a handful of whiting.
The members of the kingfish family are generally small in size, about half a pound to a pound or so, and there is no limit on size or catch of the tasty fish.
"I would rather eat whiting fillets than those from a speckled trout," Farah said as he dropped a chunky specimen into his ice chest. "Winter is a good time to put some of them into the boat."
A few minutes later, a nice black drum snatched up a shrimp that had been tossed into the drop-off and the winter saltwater battle was on in earnest.
The drum showed no signs of sluggishness as it zipped through the water in its fruitless attempt at freedom and after a battle of several minutes was eased into the dip net. Measuring about 18 inches long, the "butterfly drum" can stack up in large numbers all along the Land Cut and are a popular winter prize.
Earlier this year when temperatures were high, anglers were finding black drum in some areas that were in poor condition as if they were starving.
Although the exact cause of the decline — some of the fish were in such bad shape that they were not fit to eat because their flesh had gelled — has not been determined, very few of the winter fish are in anything but excellent condition.
Some veteran guides and area biologists believe that lingering drought conditions increased the salinity of the water, reducing the number of crabs and shellfish favored by the drum as a food source. A brown tide bloom also may have been a factor in the short-lived decline.
After several nice drum provided some good action on the Land Cut, Farah pulled up anchor and headed for the shallow-water flats within sight of Marker 37 Marina for a little afternoon speckled trout action.
"The trout will be in the sand pockets where the sun has warmed up the water," he said, switching from live shrimp to plastic-tailed jigs as his fish-attraction tool.
"Artificials just seem to work better on the trout this time of year than live bait. You can work the plastics right off the bottom and catch trout where someone with a shrimp on a popping cork won't get a bite."
With the afternoon sun beaming down on the water to warm both anglers and fish, a catch of about a half-dozen keeper trout and 50 or so smaller fish were evidence the guide's tactics were on the mark.
"If you know what you are doing, winter can be the best time to be at the coast," Farah said.
Ralph Winingham is a freelance outdoors writer. Email firstname.lastname@example.com.
Shrimp tips: When using live shrimp or fresh dead shrimp as bait, there should be a slight sweet smell (kind of like licorice) to the bait. If the smell is offensive to the angler, it won't be attractive to saltwater predators.
Double trouble: Using two shrimp, rather than just one, will improve an angler's chances of enticing a winter bite. Take the first shrimp and squeeze its body until the intestines are pushed into the tail. Strip off the end of the tail and part of the shell, then thread the shrimp on the hook like a worm. The second shrimp should be hooked through the body to keep it alive. This causes the bait to be both active and give off a bite-attracting odor.
Chum control: If the angler is a chummer (a fish-attracting tactic of spreading pieces of bait or other fish food in an area), keep the amount of chum to a minimum. Two shrimp cut into pieces and spread over a fishing area will attract desirable fish and should not bring in unwanted trash fish.
Artificial intelligence: Soft plastics in light colors are the key for speckled trout in winter months. Capt. Joey Farah favors a quarter ounce Logic Lures Wiggly Jiggly jig head (the head actually moves to give the lure additional action) with Logic's Scented PlastiX tails in colors such as pearl/chartreuse and glow/chartreuse. The plastic tails must be threaded straight on the jig hook to provide the correct action, which can be accomplished by using your thumb along the tail to measure where the hook should emerge from the plastic to make the tail snug up to the jig head.
Capt. Joey Farah can be reached at 361-442-8145 or on Facebook at JoeyFarahFishing for more information about saltwater angling all along the Gulf Coast.


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Brand new Moderat track played live yesterday at the Astra in Berlin.
Archive for Modeselektor
New Moderat track!Posted in Uncategorized with tags Apparat, Moderat, Modeselektor on November 26, 2009 by thezombiesnakecharmer
Let's all go to Berlin and eat dönersPosted in Uncategorized with tags Berlin, döner, dürüm, Modeselektor on November 10, 2009 by thezombiesnakecharmer
While everyone is celebrating the fall of the Berlin wall today i wanted to talk about another major event which happened in Berlin…
I name: the invention of the döner kebab, this Turkish meal known by many (especially after long nights out), but often under different names. Indeed the Turkish name is döner kebab and means rotating grilled meat, but in France they call it a "grec" (French readers can read here why) and in Belgium I noticed some places where they call it döner but it's quite rare, the dürüm usually replaces it.
Although the origins of this dish come from the Ottoman empire in the XVII th century, it is said that it was "recreated" in Kreuzberg (district of Ost-Berlin) in 1971. And it was in a restaurant called Hasir. Some of you might recognize that name thanks to Modeselektor's homage on their album Hello Mom.
Speaking of them, I realized that I forgot to share their Resident Advisor podcast which I found amazing and so inspirational. So here is it:
Modeselektor – Resident Advisor podcast 173Tracklist after the jump: Continue reading


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I have 2 layouts published in this issue both based on the sketches provided. A single page and a 2 page layout.
The basis of the sketch were the circles. I used then as the foundation for my photos instead of a design element. I love the modern vintage look of the Crate Paper Poolside collection to complement the photos of me as a child.
For this one, I used a single color matte across the 2 pages. I die cut the panels and used them as overlays. I used some of the negative cut pieces to create the sun. The Doodlebug Sunkissed collection caught my eye for these bright summer pool photos of my family. I love the fun and whimsy in this line.
Thanks for stopping by my creative view today. Come back again tomorrow. I've got more to share
Supplies-Sun n Fun: CS-American Crafts, PP, ephemera, chipboard-Crate paper, title-American Crafts. mist-Heidi Swapp, electronic die cut-Silhouette
Supplies-Boyz n the Hood-CS-Bazzill, PP, stickers-Doodlebug Designs, brads-Echo Park, alphas-October Afternoon, American Crafts, mist-Dylusions


text: The country has been struggling to restore security in the face of relentless attacks between rival militias [AFP]The Central African Republic has suspended the country's mobile text messaging service SMS, the telecommunications ministry in Bangui, the capital, said. In a letter to mobile phone operators in the country on Tuesday, the ministry said they had suspended the service because it posed a security threat. "The use of any SMS by all mobile phone subscribers is suspended from Monday June 2, 2014, until further notice," the ministry said. The ministry said the decision had been made by Prime Minister Andre Nzapayeke. Nzapayeke on Sunday had made an appeal for people to return to work in Bangui following several days of protests that had paralysed the capital. Since last week there has been a resurgence of violence in Bangui, as well as a call for a general strike relayed by SMS in the past few days. A source in the government told the AFP news agency the suspension of text messages would last "for several days". Mobile phone users in the CAR who try to send text messages were receiving the response: "SMS not allowed" from their operators. The majority Christian country has been struggling to restore security in the face of relentless tit-for-tat attacks between Christian vigilante groups and Muslim-led ex-Seleka rebels who seized control in a coup last year but were forced from power in January. SOURCE: AFP Africa


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Book Review – B.P.R.D.: Vampire
Spoilers, yo.
Mike Mignola's Hellboy has spawned a whole fleet of spin-off books and interesting characters, and the issues collected in BPRD: Vampire center around Agent Anders, a man haunted – literally – by vampires. He has the spirits of two vampire sister locked away inside him, but the seal is weakening. He becomes obsessed with killing vampires, and with Professor Bruttenholm's reluctant help, he sets off in search of the vampires' gathering place.
Fábio Moon, Gabriel Bá and Dave Stewart combine on the art, and it's haunting. Gritty and monochromatic, save for the blazes of red from the bloody vampires. Not my normal thing, but it works for this. Story-wise there are a few twists I didn't see, and I was surprised with where it ended and left Anders. If you're tired of friendly/sparkly vampires, check it out.


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Use your TV to watch funny videos on YouTube with your friends and family.
Have you ever been in the situation where you had guests over and were all hovered around the small screen of your computer, watching YouTube videos, when, in the next room, you had a perfectly fine home theatre system, with seating that a cinema would envy?
The solution to using the computer was probably just as close as your Internet-connected Nintendo Wii game console.
I had a lazy Sunday and was sitting at my computer, performing some Google search engine optimization on a set of webpages and remembered a YouTube video of SearchEngineLand that discussed some of the information I was working with. First impulse was to open Firefox and navigate to YouTube, get my favorites and play through the video. As usual, Adobe Flash crashed partway through the video, but I really was not interested in resolving that issue right now.
I had known that I could use the Nintendo Wii to browse the web, but I never really considered using the Wii for that purpose, with any seriousness.


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Like most details in dealing in a divorce, child visitation, and visitation rights, come with their own pitfalls. Thankfully, many of those are explicitly spelled out, if your state has set Child Parenting Time Guidelines (as my state calls them), or an equivalent thereof. These are set guidelines to give both custodial and non-custodial parents backup and guidance if there are any questions about who gets whom and when, holidays included.
However, as with most other details of day to day life, and dealings with the human race, the guidelines don't always have solutions for every problem. Nor should they. But, there are times when the human element will come into play, and if humans can do one thing, they can be petty, spiteful, forgetful… you name it.
So, how do you deal with situations like the following?:
Constantly Arriving/Dropping Off Kids Late.
Believe me, this can be a royal pain in the ass. Your ex is constantly late picking them up, or dropping them off. Never mind if you have plans, or what the agreed-upon schedule was to begin with, the beat of your ex's own drummer is firmly being danced to. Well, of course this is nonsense, and you shouldn't have to stand for it.
If this is a continuing struggle, at some point, gently remind the other parent that the child visitation schedules were set for a reason, and they are legally binding, pending other agreements. Not only that, it's just plain rude. If the schedule isn't working, suggest changes that will work for all sides. It never hurts to be diplomatic.
Cancellations, or Refusal by Other Parent to See Kids.
Sadly, this will happen, and sometimes for very legitimate reasons. Work issues can crop up, illnesses, family emergencies. On the other hand, sometimes the non-custodial parent can just cancel their visitations in a fit of pique (It's happened to me!) or because of an ongoing argument, or simply because they don't feel like it.
While your first reaction may be anger at the other parent, try to remember your feelings are the least of the concern here. The children just got told their parent didn't want to see them, or otherwise couldn't see them. For reasons that, more than likely, have nothing to do with them.
That hurts.
Be that rock for them. Reassure them that it's not their fault. Go out of your way to comfort them, whatever it will take. Kids can be stronger than you think, but chances are, they still love their other parent, even if you don't any longer.
Of course, it's also still on the other parent to make amends, both to you, but especially the kids. Don't forget about that, and don't let your ex forget that either.
Refusal by Custodial Parent to Allow Child Visitation.
This, actually, is pretty clear cut. In most jurisdictions, the custodial parent cannot refuse you visitation rights to the children, barring orders from the court in the matter. It doesn't matter how far behind you are on support (although, seriously, get on that tout suite), the custodial parent is legally prevented from telling you that you cannot see the kids. If this is happening to you, talk to your attorney. This is a matter for the court to decide (both the refusal itself, and the reasons why), and could lead to contempt charges against the custodial parent. Diplomacy is always best, but sometimes, you just need an attorney.
Constantly Changing the Schedule.
This is another matter that's more of a pain than anything, but lack of a consistent child visitation schedule can only lead to confusion, both for you, and for the kids.
When in doubt, the guidelines set in the divorce agreement need to be followed, period, as well as the guidelines set by your state or supervising jurisdiction. Holidays especially are points of contention, but that's why the guidelines were set.
But if one parent or another keeps making changes, or keeps asking to make changes, then perhaps it's a good idea to actually change the schedule instead. You can either do this unofficially, or make it binding via court order (consider mediation as a less expensive alternative to a court battle), but whatever the means or method, it could help avoid more drama over the issue.
Be Ready To Resolve Conflicts.
As always, if you have any deeper issues or concerns, consult your attorney, or state regulations. It's never a good idea to use the court to solve your personality conflicts, but if there are actual issues that need to be solved, then get them solved. Preferably in a way the benefits everyone – including the children at the center of it all.
Related Posts
- It's simple, really. You get the final judgment handed down, and both sides have rights and responsibilities they must abide by in order for your divorce to be fully legal. Sorry, those are the breaks. Unless there was pre-existing criminal activity going into the divorce, or any other mitigating circumstances,…
- Custody and child support can be gigantic brick walls many divorced parents, both custodial and non-custodial, seem to always run up against. Mainly because there are a metric ton of misconceptions about who has what rights, and when, and what it all actually means, here is common sense custody advice…


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In July, Board Chair Karen Cook and Treasurer Mike Halcom attended USGBC Convergence in San Diego as New Mexico's representatives. Convergence brought together leaders from all USGBC chapters nationwide. The big news was that Rick Fedrizzi would step down as the CEO of USGBC effective the end of 2016. Rick reminded all those in attendance that legacy change makers need to become mentors for the new generation and hand over the reins.
Our New Mexico Chapter was recognized for being 1 of 8 Pioneer chapters leading the integration and we are well along the path to completing our chapter integration with USGBC national. Now it is time with staff assigned, membership up and technical and professional services from national at our fingertips to get down to guiding New Mexico to be the healthiest and most sustainable state in the U.S. New emphasis is being directed toward expanding our volunteer base to include all like-minded organizations both locally and nationally. Especially singled out were new initiatives for veterans, teachers and faith-based groups. Glen Salas is your Board liaison for these partnerships. We had extensive dialogues with other chapters on how we can overcome common problems. We also shared highlights of the programs which are working for each of us.
Our soon to be launched Green Steps for Schools program was warmly received. Contact Board Members Tony Sparks, Al Sena or Karen Cook to get involved. There was a renewed emphasis on students and emerging change makers and how they can best integrate into chapter leadership.
The Chapter's Emerging Professional and Student Committee continues to be very active. To volunteer, contact Lindsay Edelhoff. Social media skills were highlighted as being one area that chapters are not using to their fullest potential. Rita Stange has taken over the social media duties for our chapter.


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The inner workings of the Artistic Administration forum
Report on the AA forum meeting in London 27-28 September 2018
Opera Europa's recent Artistic Administration forum seems to answer particular needs for our member. Their listserv has been extremely active in the past few months, on varied topics.
During their last meeting in London at the end of September, participants found they didn't have enough time to delve into the thrilling topics of their main sessions.
Host artistic director Daniel Kramer gave a provocative welcome address to spark discussion and debate among the 60 participants.
Efficiency management in the production process brought views from repertoire and stagione houses, with examples from Jan Henric Bogen (Opera Vlaanderen), Jessica Fjelkegård (GöteborgsOperan), Terri-Jayne Griffin (English National Opera) and Ivo Graca (Prague).
Susanna Schmidt (Bregenz Festival), Cormac Simms (Royal Opera House Covent Garden) and Malte Puls (Volksoper Wien) shared their expertise on guest contracts, from special clauses on media rights to the challenging GDPR.
Bob Brandsen, chair of Opera Europa's Technical & Production forum, led an interactive session to update the Co-production guidelines produced by Opera Europa in 2005. They are now available online.
The presentation by Sune Hjerrild and Mike Gibb on the joint venture finalised over the summer between Truelinked and Operabase gave food to much discussion, too.
Participants were invited to attend auditions organised by London-based agencies prior to the conference, and auditions of the Royal Opera House's Jette Parker Young Artists Programme and the English National Opera's Harewood Artists Programme. They also attended the premiere of Salome staged by Adena Jacobs, and got to sit in on the Porgy and Bess Sitzprobe.
The steering group, composed of Aurore Aubouin (La Monnaie), Jessica Fjelkegård and Moritz Reissenberger (Aalto-Musiktheater Essen) thanked Terri-Jayne for her contributions over the years, as she was ending her work at English National Opera ; and are welcoming Laura Canning (Garsington), Katja Tammela (Finnish National Opera) and Stephanie Wippel (Wiener Staatsoper), bringing varied expertise to their working team to plan their next meeting, to be held between 24 and 27 April in Antwerp, adjoining Opera Europa's spring conference on the theme of Creation.


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We LOVE weddings at St. Joe's! Not only is it super close to us, but it is so beautiful! If you have never been in the St. Joe's Family Center, you have got to stop in!
We first met Brittany at a bridal show and we loved her burlap, coral and mason jar theme! Brittany decorated the mason jars herself, and the theme was carried all the way through and everything looked great!
Ceremony: St. Joseph Parish– Sylvania, OH
Reception: St. Joe's Family Center– Sylvania, OH
Florist: Beautiful Blooms by Jen
Photographer: Yana Galanin Photography
Videographer: Draeger Photography
DJ: Professional Sounds


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Step out in style every day in a pair of Women's casual shoes. For busy days on your feet you need comfort without compromising on style which is why this collection if perfect. All at affordable prices with Fast UK Delivery and Easy Returns here at Shoetique.
An easy to wear style of shoe is a must have in every ladies' wardrobe as it can be so easily adapted to a variety of outfits and looks. Wear them with your favourite pair of jeans or even a dress for a relaxed weekend look that we love. You will be able to walk for hours on end in these styles thanks to their immense comfort – we guarantee your new favourite is in this collection.
With chunky soles, lace-up designs and effortless slip ons we have the laid back shoes for you ideal for anywhere your days off take you. Whether you enjoy strolls around a new town, shopping or pottering around the house a relaxed design is essential!
Add a little fun to your everyday looks with a colourful shoe or keep it subtle and chic with black leather or patent – casual doesn't mean boring!
Read More


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The Premier League, which oversees the interests of the 20 Premiership clubs, insists "trust is lacking in the game at every level".
It adds: "The FA board is no longer capable of properly managing its roles. The way of working is unsustainable.
"There is an underlying sense of conflict and alienation between the constituent parts of the game."
The Premier League's views have been submitted to an independent inquiry headed by Lord Terence Burns, who is conducting a review of the FA.
And little has been held back by the Premier League in its calls for English football's regulatory body to be revamped.
The report continues: "The tensions that have existed since the creation of professional football continue and there is an underlying sense of conflict and alienation.
"The relationship between the professional and amateur game has never been properly resolved and now is the time to do so."
On the issue of the England national team, which also falls under the jurisdiction of the FA, the report said: "The clubs can feel very detached from the decisions that are made.
"The Premier League believes that the England team 'belongs' to the whole of English football, to the country.
"However, it can often be the cause of tension - the so-called 'club v country' debate.
"It makes sense for the Premier League and the clubs to feel greater, not less, involvement and ownership."
The FA also came under attack for the way it runs the world's oldest domestic cup competition.
Premier League chief Richard Scudamore claimed "clubs feel the FA Cup is not really theirs in any meaningful way.
"This is unhealthy for the game as a whole."


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A life-saving treatment will be denied to tens of thousands of victims of Britain's most common male cancer after a U-turn by the NHS rationing body.
The groundbreaking ultrasound therapy has been shown to kill nine out of 10 prostate tumours, and five years after treatment, 80 per cent of patients show no sign of the cancer recurring.
Compared with surgery or conventional radiotherapy treatment, it is not invasive and is far less likely to lead to devastating side effects such as impotence or incontinence.
Suitable for treatment in the early stages of the disease, when it is not known how quickly it will spread, the ultrasound therapy is regarded by doctors as a vital new weapon in the battle against prostate cancer.
The UK's most prevalent cancer among men, prostate cancer kills 10,000 a year, with 35,000 more cases diagnosed annually. A third of men over 50 contract it.
Three years ago, the National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence (Nice) said men across the country should be offered the treatment, called High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (Hifu), free on the NHS.
But The Sunday Telegraph has learnt that Nice has now decided to reverse that decision. In the New Year, the controversial rationing body will massively restrict the use of the HIFU treatment.
Instead of it being available to all prostate cancer sufferers, it will now be restricted only to those who have already failed to respond to conventional treatment and whose cancer has returned.
The decision, set to be made in February, means Hifu will not be available to the vast majority of prostate cancer sufferers.
Cancer charities and senior doctors last night attacked the move as a U-turn.
Mark Emberton, a consultant urologist at University College Hospital, London, said he was worried that patients would be forced into the private sector, "which would be a disaster", if they wanted the treatment.
He also questioned the logic of only offering Hifu to men whose cancer had returned, while denying it to patients in the early stages of the disease.
Meanwhile, Stephen Brown, a consultant urologist at Stepping Hill hospital, Stockport, said: "We think Hifu is a really good option for patients who want a lesser procedure."
Prof Roger Kirby, who chairs the Prostate UK charity, also decried the decision. He said: "Restricting the treatments available will have a massive impact on the patient."
Since Nice made its original ruling, permitting the use of Hifu, just 300 men have been given the treatment on the NHS.
Primary care trusts have so far been slow to foot the bill for the treatment, which is one-off but costs about £13,000.
This amount compares with £3,000 for radiotherapy, which takes six weeks, and £5,000 for surgery.
It is understood that Nice, which has refused to comment on its new guidelines, will rule that there is insufficient evidence to prove that Hifu has long-term value.
The U-turn comes despite the research published last month in the European Journal of Urology which found that eight out of 10 men were healthy five years after being treated with Hifu.