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Beethoven – 'Moonlight' Sonata
Ludwig van Beethoven (1770 – 1827)
Piano Sonata No. 14 in C-sharp minor, Op. 27, No. 2
- Musical and historical analysis of the sonata
- Recordings review
- Top 10 recordings of Beethoven's 'Moonlight' Sonata
- Download free printable sheet music (score)
Beethoven's "Moonlight sonata", a name coined by German music critic Ludwig Rellstab after Beethoven's death, is one of the most widely known classical music pieces, and has been since it was composed some 200 years ago.
But let us examine it more closely and look at the facts surrounding the piece, find past and future musical connections and, of course, compare and choose the best recordings of the sonata.
It is said that Beethoven was inspired to write the sonata while visiting Lake Balaton, located in Hungary.
The sonata, which is in three movements, as most sonatas of the classical period, is best known for the first movement, Adagio sostenuto (there are about 10 times as many recordings of it than there are of the whole piece).
The descending bass-line, characterising the introduction, sometimes called the Phrygian progression, (which it, strictly speaking, isn't in this case, because it detours to subdominant f-sharp before reaching the target dominant g-sharp), had been used long before Beethoven:
Adagio from a Sonata by Albinoni, written 100 years earlier
And thus, borrowing the idea of this baroque rhetoric figure, Beethoven starts his Sonata.
But what really captured the public's heart was the ever-imploring polyrhythmic motif making up the main theme:
Both the perpetual triplets and the polyrhythm were copied out of Mozart's score – from the Commendatore's death scene in 'Don Giovanni'.
The unusual tonal progressions are what led Beethoven to title the sonata "Quasi una Fantasia". Fantasia usually describes a free-form classical music piece.
The tonic major-to-minor progression, which initiates the modulation to the second subject, had frequently been used earlier by Mozart, and Beethoven just can't resist:
Thematic comparison
Beethoven – 'Moonlight' Sonata
25 years earlier: Mozart – Sonata No. 4 in E-flat major (1775)
100 years later: Rachmaninoff – Piano Concerto No. 2 (1900)
There's always been a discrepancy over the twelfth bar on whether to play the note c or b in the second triplet group:
But, in fact, there shouldn't be a discrepancy, because, as per the counterpoint rules of the classical period, two separate voices mustn't move in parallel octaves or fifths, unless one is doubling the other. Clearly, the middle triplet note is not doubling the (already-doubled) bass-line. And hence – c, and not b, should be played.
The first movement mostly adheres to the sonata form, but not without surprises. In the exposition, the second subject is not in the dominant key, as it usually is in classical sonata form, but instead sounds in B minor, which is not even a parallel key!
Towards the end of the first movement, the main motif is foretelling darker times ahead, moving into the left hand territory:
Moving forward, the second movement turns out to be a light-hearted exercise in classical harmony. Unfortunately, the main motif is hardly a melody, and, what's more, it is repeated 20 times in the course of (fortunately, only) two minutes. Here are four of these (repetitions) from the opening:
The Trio is on par with the Allegretto. Two repeats of two eight-bar sequences. At least it's contrasting. The Allegretto, as expected, is repeated da capo after the Trio.
(Excellent playing there by Daniel Barenboim in above examples.)
The third movement, a fierce fiery Presto in sonata form, starts with the same notes as the first movement, namely: c-sharp, g-sharp, c-sharp and e. Also, Beethoven adds an agitato instruction to the score. He then goes on to transform the original three-note motif into two lightning bolts, modifying the rhythmic pattern, with the second note on the weak beat, keeping the initial underlying harmonic structure the same.
Thematic comparison
1st movement
3rd movement
Again, Beethoven eyes a motif by Mozart for the first part of the second subject, and...repeats it six times until it gets him somewhere. Mind you, he even grabs the ornaments along.
Thematic comparison
Mozart – Sonata No. 1 in C major (1775)
Beethoven – Sonata, 3rd movement
The theme continues its run until it bumps into a Neapolitan flattened supertonic (which comes from the third bar of the first movement), runs around a bit, bumps into it again an octave lower, runs around a bit, and finds its way into another theme, which, at last, leads to the controversial closing subject.
The exposition is repeated, traditionally. The development and recapitulation aren't, and we will see why in a minute.
The development section starts off with the first subject arpeggios in tonic major, but quickly gives way to the cantabile theme from the second subject, which nicely relocates into the left hand, and off it goes, jumping down and down, until it arrives at the long dominant pedal point, predicting the reprise, just as it did in the first movement, albeit without the diminished seventh chords (Beethoven saves these for later).
We then get a reprise, which essentially duplicates the whole exposition section, except for the standard change of keys and a few minor alterations. And only afterwards comes the final ascent, one of the more effective ones from Beethoven – with two climax points, practically one after another.
At first there is an illusion that we are entering another development section. But here it becomes clear why only the exposition got a repeat: the whole second part – encompassing the development section, the full reprise and the elaborate ending – is twice as long as the exposition. But another important reason is that the climaxes would not have been successful the second time round.
Logically, the first climax is based on the first subject, while the more elaborate and emotional second climax develops on the second subject motif before rolling into triplet arpeggios – "down and up" several times – in Salieri's style – up through a chromatic scale – trill! – descending again in a kind of improvisational figuration – and grinding to a halt: Adagio. Then... Tempo I più tranquillo, piano. The not-so-controversial-anymore pedal point returns for six bars, pianissimo. Then – Presto, forte – a final arpeggio ascent – sforzando – descent – and two blasts – fortissimo, senza Pedale.
Was it this that the first movement's final bars prophesised?
(The unsurpassed Jenö Jandó in above examples.)
Recordings review
Playing this sonata may seem like an easy task for a professional pianist. But it isn't. Firstly, there are literally hundreds of small directions in the score, some more controversial than others. Secondly, every pianist gives a personal rendition of each of the movements, almost always breaking at least some of the rules set by the composer.
So, what are we looking for in a recording? How do we choose the best ones?
Obviously, the technical aspects of the playing should be nothing less than perfect. But, first of all, we are looking for an interpretation, which is musical, in the full sense of the word. It must flow. It must sing. The three movements should be played in one breath.
Secondly, we expect well-chosen tempi, clear articulation that adheres to the score, proper use of the pedal, in line with the style of the late classical period.
Let's begin with the first movement. The indicated tempo, Adagio, is one of the slowest existing tempo indications. Obviously, it should be slower than Andante.
In most recordings we hear a fairly moderate tempo.
Evgeny Kissin
What is played by Pletnev, Arrau, Lupu, Rubinstein, Serkin is really moving into the Lento territory –
Rudolf Serkin
– while Jandó, Horowitz, Kempff, Schnabel play a bit faster than usual.
Jenö Jandó
But, strictly speaking, the term Adagio refers to the tempo of the 1/4 notes (crotchets), and in that sense most pianist are within the relative limits. Perhaps only Schnabel's is really too fast.
Technically, it turns out, most performers do not play the main motif correctly. They just don't properly combine the triplets with the dotted quaver.
Only Barenboim, Kissin, Pletnev, Ashkenazy, Lupu and Rubinstein can be said to have a true polyrhythm.
Daniel Barenboim
Brendel, Kempff and Schnabel have really got it wrong.
Wilhelm Kempff
Barenboim's first movement is exemplary, being objective and at the same time very personal. Pletnev, Jandó, Ashkenazy, Arrau, Lupu and Gieseking have also put a lot of thought into their interpretations, with all having a good singing tone, emotions, dynamics and flow.
Radu Lupu
The middle section, with ascending and descending diminished seventh chords, should continue to be played in triplets. They needn't be accented, but if there is a hint of it after all, it must not under any circumstances be in duplets! Unfortunately, we do hear that in recordings by Gilels, Brendel, Pollini, Serkin and Kempff.
In the second movement, all of Barenboim, Jandó, Kissin, Pletnev, Tomšič, Serkin, Lupu, Gieseking, Schnabel and Horowitz maintain a good balance between the dance-like mood, the singing upper melody and the playful staccato chords.
The Trio, which starts with three sforzandi and continues – after the repeat – in pianissimo, should be contrasting, not complementing the Allegretto, which starts and ends in piano. Well done Kissin, Jandó, Pletnev, Rubinstein and Horowitz.
Jenö Jandó
There is only one perfect recording of the third movement, and it is by Jenö Jandó. The musicality as a whole, the interpretation, the technical aspects, the balance, the fine details – his playing has it all. You can practically hear Beethoven himself at the piano.
But while everyone is free to judge Jandó's musicianship on their own, let us examine the technical side.
Beethoven knew exactly what he wanted, when he marked specifically the first note and the last three in each bar staccato, starting from the fifth bar of the second subject:
Jenö Jandó
Why then are these markings ignored by all of Kissin, Gilels, Rubinstein, Pollini, Serkin, Horowitz, Kempff, Schnabel? How can you just play it all on pedal?
Vladimir Horowitz
And this gets extreme when we talk about the final culmination point:
Jenö Jandó
Evgeny Kissin
But Kissin's playing is unique in its own way. His playing of this movement is one of the fastest available, and, while in other recordings the speed degrades the quality of the pianist's playing and hence the overall delivery, the fact that Kissin has such fine control of his technique, combined with his remarkable musical insight, the result is an amazing performance, perfect in its own way, and astoundingly different from Jandó's.
At one point he is full of fire, a moment later – he is in a different, distant a world. Listen to his absolutely unique interpretation of the development section:
Evgeny Kissin
Both Daniel Barenboim and Mikhail Pletnev offer their personal renditions of the movement, interesting in their own ways.
There are many wrong notes in other recordings, and they are the result of 'missing' the right ones, but it is difficult to explain why Barenboim plays a d-natural instead of e towards the end of the third bar in the A major connecting theme:
Daniel Barenboim
in slow motion
Strange also that he doesn't repeat this the second time round.
But what is completely and totally unacceptable is forgetting that Beethoven compressed the same connecting theme in the recap. And Barenboim does just that – forgets:
Jenö Jandó
Daniel Barenboim
And the deeper we dig into the recordings, the farther we find ourselves from the ideal and flawless performance.
Let's listen to it again...
Jenö Jandó
And so, here are the top 10 recordings of Beethoven's 'Moonlight' Sonata:
1. Jenö Jandó
Bonus: equally outstanding renditions of No. 8 'Pathetique' and No. 23 'Appassionata' sonatas
Bonus: unparalleled performance of Franck's "Prelude, Choral & Fugue", Variations on a Theme of Paganini by Brahms
Bonus: Sonatas No. 21 'Waldstein' and No. 23 'Appassionata'
Bonus: Sonatas No. 21 'Waldstein' and No. 23 'Appassionata'
Bonus: Sonatas No. 8 'Pathetique' and No. 12
Bonus: Sonatas No. 8 'Pathetique' and No. 23 'Appassionata'
Bonus: 5 Piano Concerti, Sonatas No. 8, No. 21, Variations in C minor, Piano Quintet, 2 Rondi
Bonus: Sonatas No. 8 'Pathetique' and No. 23 'Appassionata'
Bonus: Symphony No. 7, Overture to "Fidelio"
Bonus: Sonatas No. 8 'Pathetique' and No. 23 'Appassionata'
Labels: beethoven, classical music, piano, sonata


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Nicolas Cage is looking to settle his debts.
The tax-troubled star said he's going to pay $14 million in taxes to the IRS, according to People.
"Over the course of my career I have paid at least $70 million in taxes, unfortunately, due to a recent legal situation, another approximate $14 million is owed to the IRS," the star told the mag in a statement. "However, I am under new business management and am happy to say that I am current for 2009, all taxes will be paid including any to be determined state taxes."
As previously reported by AccessHollywood.com, Cage is embroiled in a number of lawsuits, including one filed by Red Curb Investments. The actor recently lost two of his New Orleans homes in foreclosure auctions.
Related Content from AccessHollywood.com:
VIEW THE PHOTOS: Nicolas Cage
PLAY IT NOW: Preview: Disney's 'The Sorcerer's Apprentice'
PLAY IT NOW: Nicolas Cage Wins Lawsuit Against Kathleen Turner
MORE ACCESS ON THESE TOPICS: Nicolas Cage - Movies - Lawsuits - Celebrities

subset: commoncrawl


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About Beaverton Friends of Music
Our goal is to see high-quality music programs equitably represented at every school in the Beaverton School District from Kindergarten through the 12th grade. We believe music class seat time should be funded to meet the national recommended minimums of 90 minutes per week for elementary general music and 3 hours per week for middle school and high school band, choir, and orchestra, and that these classes should be taught by by certified music teachers (not parent volunteers or instructional assistants).
Our official website is www.MusicEducationMatters.org. It serves as an online forum to disperse information, media, and research. We encourage your participation in the development of our messages and strategies, and we invite you to attend our next planning meeting, which is listed on the panel to the right. Our blog is located in the News & Updates section of our website.
Budgetary and instructional decisions at the state and city-level are affecting music education in our district, and the more people who become informed about these facts, the more effective we will be. Please help us get the word out by sharing our website with your family, friends, co-workers, legislators, and neighbors. You can get more involved by attending our planning meetings, by following our blog posts and joining our mailing list (write to firstname.lastname@example.com with your name, phone number, e-mail, and the school you are associated with), by visiting our Beaverton Friends of Music Facebook page, (Like Our Page!) and by joining our Beaverton Friends of Music Facebook group.
Thank you for visiting and we look forward to advocating with you soon!
Check out our Blog –>


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Thursday, August 27, 2009
More baby Drue....
Posted by Misty at 10:42 PM 0 comments Links to this post
Drue Tyler Hamilton
Here's my precious sweet nephew Drue... He was born August 19th at 9:13 a.m. He was 7 lbs 14oz and 21 inch long. He's truly one of God's most precious gifts....
My Brother... proud parents!
Posted by Misty at 10:32 PM 0 comments Links to this post
Friday, August 14, 2009
My Cake....
This is just a hobby of mine... I had been asked to post some pictures of the cakes I've made so here ya go... These are the ones I've made recently.
Posted by Misty at 2:28 PM 0 comments Links to this post
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"Listen boys, I shall not accept any security lapse this evening," thundered O P Khurana, "our heads will be served on a platter if a single black flag is seen by the chief guest".
Sam was surprised to hear booming voice of Mr. O P Khurana outside the venue of award ceremony. Mr. Khurana was actively participating in overseeing of arrangements inside and outside the auditorium. Preparations were in full throttle for this important award ceremony. Guest list has been scrutinised. Rank and seniority duly considered in seating arrangements. Auditorium has been spruced up and decorated. Public address system checked and rechecked. Speakers and stage performers have been adviced to adhere to time discipline.
"Such embarrassments!" thought Khurana of the black flag waving and black arm band wearing protestors who arrive at sites where bravery medals are awared to security personnels, "not today. I have a plan."
"Bring chief guest and dignitories through this side door," swore Khurana, "No protest will be allowed to spoil the day, when our brave soldiers are receiving extraordinary bravery medals,"
Sam could see that a side door was marked "No Entry" and a guard was deputed there
Not many thought O P Khurana, had a life outside his office. He came to office early and left late. Friends and colleagues often wondered if Khurana ever went home! Barring a few close friends, not many knew Khurana worked hard to drown his pain. His only son fell to terrorist bullet trying to rescue hostages. Khurana's wife blames him for their son's death.
Today Khurana's son is on the list to receive an extraordinary bravery award posthumously. This day cannot be allowed to be ruined by any black flag protest.
This post is written as part of #BlogchatterA2Z Blogging Challenge.
Also Read : (1) Assignment; (2) Be Like a Cactus; (3) Chauvinist; (4) Director, the Dictator;
(5) Eagle Eye, (6) Friends in the Making, (7) Growing Old Together, (8) Hex or Hoax
(9) Village Idiot, (10) Jamboree by the Lake (11) Kindred Spirit (12) Lucky Break (13) Mole
(14) Navratra (15) Outsmarted


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English Teacher
Stefan Chiarantano just posted the following entry:
All about me! - A classroom activity
Here's a handout (see below) which I use in class to get students to talk about themselves. This is done as a class activity. I start off with getting the students to draw a sketch of themselves in the box....
Click here to read the full article


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My computer having been offline for the past week due to a mysterious manifestation of water in the keyboard (handy hint: drying it out in the boiler-cupboard worked wonders), I'm so relieved to be typing this that I could probably give anything a passing grade at this point. But kicking off with The Warlocks' new single is safe enough, as 'It's Just Like Surgery' is far too self-evidently brilliant to require any forced objectivity on my part.
Presenting romance as simultaneous anaesthetic and disemboweller, The Warlocks here mix Novocain references with a vocal-line infused with a dulled yet twisting pain. This resigned ache of a lyric is set forth over music with the spacious and feedback-wracked qualities of JAMC and a low-key sweeping beauty which begs the listener to float off on the back on the tune. Need/hate romantic compliance has never sounded so good – and the B-Sides are cracking, too.


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Difference between revisions of "Beirut"
Revision as of 23:40, 31 August 2012
Beirut (Arabic: بيروت Bayrūt, French: Beyrouth) is the capital city of Lebanon with a population of approximately 2.1 million people in its metropolitan area. The city is on a relatively small headland jutting into the east Mediterranean. It is by far the biggest city in Lebanon. Due to Lebanon's small size the capital has always held the status as the only true cosmopolitan city in the country, and ever since the independence, has been the commercial and financial hub of Lebanon. 20km to its North is Jounieh, a city very closely associated with Beirut.
Charles Helou Station lies approximately one kilometer east of Nejmeh Square, on Charles Helou Avenue, facing the Beirut Port. From there you can take the city buses or hop onto the larger coaches that link Beirut with the neighboring cities.
Beirut has survived a rough history, falling under the occupation of one empire after another,. Originally named Bêrūt, "The Wells" by the Phoenicians, Beirut's history goes back more than 5000 years. Excavations in the downtown area have unearthed layers of Phoenician, Hellenistic, Roman, Arab and Ottoman civilizations.
Following World War II, Lebanon gained its independence from France and Beirut became its capital in 1943 - Bechara El-Khoury and Riad El-Solh, Lebanon's first president and prime minister respectively, are considered the founders of the modern Republic of Lebanon and national heroes. Beirut thrived as a major commercial and tourist center of the Middle East. It was a top destination among wealthy Arabs and European tourists, due to Beirut's unique geography, climate, diverse culture, and freedom. Beirut was seen as the "European gateway to the Middle East" and vice versa, and was often called the "Paris of the Middle East".
Beirut is and was home to over 10 recognized religious sects. Religious tension between the Christian and Muslim factions sparked a brutal civil war in 1975. The conflict lasted nearly a decade and a half, ravaging the city. The central area of the city, previously the focus of much of the commercial and cultural activities, became a no-man's land. Throughout the war, the city was divided between the Muslim west part and the Christian east, and tensions between different sects remains to this day.
Since the end of the war in 1989, the people of Lebanon have been rebuilding Beirut. The city has undertaken an aggressive rebuilding policy. The city is working hard to regain its status as a tourist, cultural and intellectual center in the Middle East which it has lost to Cairo as well as a center for commerce, fashion and media which is dominated by Dubai and other rich Gulf states. However Beirut with the rest of the Middle East has gained momentum.
Some areas of Beirut have a friendly atmosphere, and some Beirutis have a reputation for being very sociable and outgoing. The locals are used to the sight of foreigners and would be happy to show you around the city, if you ask them.
Secterianism is still prevalent in Lebanon, as a result of the French colonial legacy of divide and rule, which leads some Christian Lebanese to identify culturally with Europeans, particularly the French, and some denying Arab identity altogether; preferring to identify themselves as Phoenician (referring to their ancestral roots in ancient Phoenicia.) Many Muslim Lebanese identify culturally and ethnically with other Arabs and Muslims of the Middle East.
It is helpful to display some basic courtesies. A simple Bonjour when entering a cafe or shop can work wonders, and might even get you a special rate, or when hopping into a taxi, might just keep the driver from overcharging you. Say Merci when given or offered something, and if you'd rather not accept, then say La'a merci and smile; otherwise you might be taken as rude, even though you're not.
Most Beirutis love going out. If (and when) you go out at night, depending on the venue, dressing up well will most certainly get you some respect. The locals like to see that foreigners are doing what they can to fit in. Expect to be offered a drink or a cigarette. Alcohol is very cheap in shops and supermarkets, yet in night venues, prices can rise up to European standards (aka: 8,000L.L/Beer, 15,000L.L/Cocktail))
Smoking is very common in Beirut, a large portion of the people smoke both outdoors and indoors. Most restaurants have special smoking areas that are ventilated, so make sure you ask whether a particular restaurant or cafe is smoking or not, and ask for a non-smoking table if you don't want to sit around smokers.
Beirut enjoys Mediterranean climate. Come in April to June for warm, dry days and long, cool evenings (19–25°C). Temperatures in July and August rise to around 30°C and humidity can be somewhat overwhelming – make sure your hotel has air conditioning. The wettest months are December to February so bring a good coat and umbrella, the rain can sometimes be heavy. Lebanon's ski season runs from December till early April.
Despite the diverse climate that changes noticeably per season, the weather is very predictable; the weather forecast, on radio and TV stations are normally very accurate, so you normally shouldn't find yourself caught in a sudden downpour in the winter months.
Public holidays
Due to Lebanon's diverse religions and sects, many public holidays are celebrated, some of which more than once: New Year's Day, Armenian-Orthodox Christmas (6 Jan), Eid al-Adha – Feast of Sacrifice, celebrating the last day of Hajj, the Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca, Al Hijrah – Islamic New Year, Feast of St Maroun (9 Feb), Eid Milad Mnabi – Prophet's Anniversary, Good Friday and Easter Monday (Apr), Labour Day (1 May). Martyrs' Day (6 May), Liberation of the South (25 May), Assumption (15 Aug), Eid al-Fitr - Festival of the Breaking of the Fast, All Saints' Day (1 Nov), Independence Day (22 Nov), Christmas Day (25 Dec). Based on the lunar calendar, Islamic holidays move forward approximately 11 days every Western year.
Anything goes in Beirut. Shorts and T-shirts are perfect for the summer heat, for both men and women, while heavier clothing is necessary during the winter. You should cover up if visiting religious sites, such as mosques and churches. Some neighborhoods are more conservative than others, so bear that in mind when exploring the city. Going out at night is a smart affair, so dress fashionably to fit in, although this does not mean dressing up in a suit; you will find many men in sporty t-shirts, dark jeans, and smart running shoes at even the trendiest nightclubs.
Beirut is very culturally diverse, and thus, multilingual. Lebanese Arabic is the native language but everyone speaks Standard Arabic, the official language, while English and French (especially the former) are also spoken by most people.
Shop signs are in both Standard Arabic, English and French. Most restaurant menus, event listings, and such are also in English alongside Standard Arabic and sometimes in French. Road signs, however, are in Standard Arabic and French.
Get in
By plane
Beirut Rafik Hariri International Airport [20] (IATA: BEY), is the country's only international airport and the hub of Lebanon's national carrier, Middle East Airlines (MEA [21]). Most international airlines have daily flights between Beirut and the major European capitals. The airport is located 7km south of Beirut, and is roughly a 10 to 15 minute drive from the city center.
Car parking is available at the airport for around 2.5 USD per hour. Please note that when the parking time is rounded to the upper hour (i.e. 1.1 hours ~= 2 hours).
At the moment, there is no public transportation to or from the airport. The following options are available for transportation.
Airport Taxis
They are plentiful and comfortable taxis that are authorized by the airport are parked next to the terminal in the arrivals level and have an airport logo on the side (official airport taxi fares [22]). Although these taxis claim to be regulated by the airport authorities, they are definitely not honest in their rates.
Regular Taxis
They are also available and are located a little farther from the airport, but these are not guaranteed and are to be used at your own risk. The aproximate rate Airport - Hamra street is LL 25000. However, the so-called regulated taxis' drivers, will ask you anywhere between $ 30 to 50 for any downtown locations. So, start bargaining from $10 and stop at $15 as the upper limit, both ways to and from the Airport. Considering this is only a 7 km long drive, and gas price is approx $ 1.5 / litre in Beirut, this price is definitely a rip off that taxi drivers would not miss.Taxi types are wildly changing, so pick the best and newest looking ones to guarantee aircon, and collision safety in Beirut traffic.
Private Minibuses
They depart from the 2nd (departure) level. These are white small buses (majority are Kia Besta) with red plates, which pickup airport service people and bring them to Beirut. The fair Airport - Martyr's square (Downtown) is just LL 2000 (May 2011)
Car Rental
All major car rental companies have booking offices inside the airport. More information can be obtained through the airport's webpage on the issue: [23]
By car
Beirut is linked with all coastal cities through the coastal road. Entrances/exists off this road connect it to districts adjacent to the coast such as Maten and Kesrwen (and others). Beirut is linked to Zahle and Baalbeck (and the rest of Bekaa) through Dahr Al-Baydar road (linked to Emile Lahoud highway at the entrance of Beirut].
There are four border crossing points between Lebanon and Syria:
You can travel between Lebanon and Syria by private/rental car, bus, private taxi, or service taxi.
Note: Please stay updated with safety conditions in Syria if coming from there. There are no reports so far that border points were closed; however, check the news to stay up-to-date.
By bus
Buses connect Beirut with Damascus and the south of Lebanon arrive at an intersection next to the Cola bridge. The bus stop is known as "Cola" among the locals. This place is in the southern part of Beirut - in area known as Mazraa.
Refer to the Get Around section for information on how to get to other parts of the city.
Get around
By taxi
There are two types of taxis in Beirut; the old (often) battered hail-taxis, and the prebooking taxis.
Keep in mind the names of the landmarks around the city, as they will come in handy when traveling by public transport (some drivers aren't that good at orienting!).
By service
The more common form of transport, especially with daily commuters, as they are cheaper than the taxis, but ironically, are in fact the same. Service [ser-vee-s] are shared-taxis, the same taxis as above but shared between four or more people. The biggest advantage with the Service system is that the price of the ride is fixed at 2,000 L.L (€1). They come with drawbacks of course, and apart from having to share a small car with three other complete strangers (great for meeting new people actually), Service drivers may choose not to take you if you are not going in the same direction as them. Hailing a service or taxi usually entails yelling your destination to the driver if he slows down, then chasing the name of your destination with either 'taxi' (for private taxi 10,000 L.L. should you want one.)
It is important to remember that if you want a service, give the name of the general district you want and not a specific address. When you get close the driver will ask you where you want to get out. If you recognise the area you want to be in say just ask to stop. AFTER you have paid you and the driver asks you, can give a more specific address like "Crowne Plaza" (a landmark on Hamra St.)and the driver will drop you as near to it as he is going, often pointing out where you have to walk to get there. When you get in to a service pay the 2000L.L. for each person right away. If you fail to do so, the driver will assume you asked for taxi, and will overcharge you at taxi-rate when you want to get out. However if the driver stops to ask for other fares or picks up another passenger only pay the Service rate of 2,000 L.L.
Taxi drivers in Beirut are notorious for overcharging tourists much more so than neighboring Syria. Most will demand absurd fares and demanding 2-3 times the service rate is very common. If you're pressed for time paying 2 service may be a compromise (4000 LL), otherwise you may have to wait a bit to find an honest cab driver willing to take you for 2000 LL. Always get a price BEFORE leaving otherwise the driver will most definitely rip you off. Also, virtually no one tips cab drivers unless some extraordinary service has been rendered, like a very long wait time while you run an errand or something. Some drivers will ask you for a tip particularly near holidays. Payment is usually at the end of the journey.
By bus
There are currently two public transport companies. The OCFTC [24] that operates a fleet of blue and white city-buses, and the LCC [25] with a fleet of red and white minibuses; Bus fares cost either 500LL (OCFTC bus 24) or 1000LL ($0.33 to 0.67). The service is very efficient and the buses come very often, to get onto a bus you must stand at the side of the road and signal with your hand as a bus approaches; the buses will stop anywhere.
By car
Driving in Beirut is not to be recommended for much of the day, particularly in the city center. Traffic is heavy, and impossible during rush hour. There is so much to see and being stuck in a traffic jam is the last thing anyone would want to spend their time doing. Walking around the city is much more of an experience, and is in fact necessary in the very center since that part of the city is a pedestrian area.
It can be difficult to find parking other than in multi-story and off-street car parks. On-street parking, if you are lucky enough to find one, is allowed for a short time of two hours. Tickets must be purchased through the parking meters usually located at either end of a street. They can be paid by either cash or card. Overstaying your time may get you a ticket. Enforcement of the parking limit isn't done very efficiently, but obviously the last thing anyone would want to find is a ticket that will ruin their day and set them back financially.
Renting a car is recommended if you're planing to visit neighboring towns and cities such as Jounieh, or if you're planing to go out late at night when public transport isn't operating, or maybe simply to enjoy the Lebanese "see-and-be-seen" lifestyle. Car rental prices range from economical 40.000L.L/day (€20.00/day) to luxury and exotic standard prices. Those can change according to season, so make sure you contact the car rental company beforehand to check prices as well as pickup/drop-off locations.
If you are traveling to the country during high season make sure to book your car rental in advance since it is normal to find that all rental companies are completely booked.
Driving in Beirut is on the right-hand side of the road.
Only the central areas of Beirut have traffic lights operating, though plans have been made to cover all of the city.
By foot
As the city is quite compact, walking is the best way of getting around, and perfect for getting off the beaten track to find unexpected surprises. Most people however will not walk throughout the city, rather they will walk within certain districts and take cars/taxis to get from one district to another. Streets are generally well signposted, but few Beiruti locals would know how to navigate according to their names, directions are usually given by building placement ("straight down the road until you reach building X, turn left there, then right..."), and many streets have local nicknames that wouldn't match the map. That said, if you find yourself lost in the streets, simply ask any passer-by for directions; no one will refuse to help! Otherwise you can stop at the nearest hotel or shop and ask. Hotel concierges and shop keepers will most definitely speak some limited English.
Some roads in Beirut are in poor condition. Not so much in the center, but the farther you get from downtown the more road works you will most probably find. So take care!
You can always check out a Beiruti-run walking tour called Walk Beirut. They offer weekly tours around the city.
Beirut was once the self-proclaimed "Paris of the Middle East". It still has an outdoor cafe culture, and European architecture can be found everywhere. Many Beirutis (as well as other Lebanese) speak French and/or English, to varying degrees, along with Arabic.
Each district has its own sights and places to visit. The following listings are just some highlights of things that you really should see if you can during your visit to Beirut. The complete listings are found on each individual district page.
Museums and galleries
Parks & Squares
Festivals & Events
There are many things to do in Beirut. Check the different districts to find out what each has to offer. Meanwhile, here are a few highlights:
Clothes and fashion - Beirut is the fashion capital of Lebanon and the region, with many prominent Lebanese designers located here, including (Elie Saab [49], Basil Soda [50], Pierre Katra [51] and Robert AbiNader [52].)
Shopping streets
There are several shopping districts around the city.
Shopping Centers
Flea markets are surprisingly hard to find, occasional organized markets are held that are made to resemble flea markets.
Lebanese Cuisine
Lebanese cuisine is a mix of Arab, Turkish, and Mediterranean influences, and enjoys a worldwide reputation for its richness and variety as well as its Mediterranean health factor. Olive oil, herbs, spices, fresh fruits and vegetables are commonly used, as well as dairy products, cereals, fishes and various types of meat. A visit to Beirut includes the traditional Lebanese Mezze (Meza), an elaborate variety of thirty hot and cold dishes. A typical Mezze may consist of salads such as the Tabboule and Fattouch, together with the caviars: Hommos and Moutabal, and some patties such as the Sambousseks and finally, the stuffed grape leaves, with of course the Lebanese flat pita bread which is essential to every Lebanese Mezze.
Must try:
International Cuisine
Beirut's different cultures brought different tastes for food, and restaurants of all different origins have opened all around the city. Restaurants have different price ranges, depending of course on the quality of the ingredients used; check the different districts for the listings.
Fast food
If you're on a tight budget, or if you simply miss the food that you can get back at home, fast food is your best option. All major international fast food restaurants have opened chains in Beirut (KFC, McDonald's, Burger King, Hardee's, TGI Fridays, Domino's Pizza, Pizza Hut, Dunkin' Donuts, Subway etc...), but many local fast food restaurants have sprung up to compete with the major franchisers.
Nightlife: Alcohol is readily available in Beirut. Many of Beirut's districts have their own fair amount of cafes, bars, and clubs, although many areas are "dry" or, while serving alocohol, do not have a vibrant nightlife. This said, two of the hotter nightspots, with the highest concentration of pubs and nightclubs, are Gemmayze (mostly pubs) and Monot St (mix of nightclubs and pubs), both located within close range in the Ashrafieh district. Hamra is also seeing a revival in it's nightlife, with over a dozen new pubs and bars open there now. The best way to find out what's in and whats not is by checking the local press or simply going there and seeing for yourself. There is no curfew in Beirut, thought expect most pubs and bars to empty by 2:00am, and most nightclubs to empty between 4:00am and 4:40am.
During the summer, Monot tends to be much less busy, as many open-air clubs outside of the area tend to dominate the nightlife in Beirut. Gemmayzeh remains popular year-round.
Locally brewed beer include Almaza[56] and Laziza (non-alcoholic). There is also a microbrewery that started producing several styles of more flavorful beer in 2006, called "961 Beer"[57]. In 2010, a new beer was launched called "LB Beer"[58], which is brewed without the use of any corn or rice. it has gained a large following by the younger, independent minded crowd and is a regular staple at locally organized parties. All are worth a try when visiting.
There are lots of hotels in Beirut's metropolitan area, ranging from cheap hostels to luxury suite hotels. Prices and quality vary across the spectrum, but if you look well enough, there's bound to be the perfect hotel inside whatever budget you set. Check the different districts to find places to sleep.
Stay safe
Since 2009, Lebanon has become a safe place and the number of tourists is dramatically increasing (more than 2 million in 2009), although the number has peaked since then. The US government's warning to travelers visiting Lebanon was lifted in mid-September 2009. The violence in Naher al-Bared has ceased. If you choose to visit Lebanon, visit the touristic cities like Jounieh, Byblos, Tyr and Tripoli. Beirut itself is safe.
Palestinian refugee camps in Beirut are approachable, but try to bring a local. She/he will be worth a lot when it comes to logistics and safety. Camps vary in size and appearance (the camps in Beirut are worse than some rural camps, which can resemble more open villages). Most refugees however are both civil and open in the encounter with foreigners. The key is of course openness on your part as well. Of course, Downtown Beirut will always be a more safe alternative, but for the most part you won't encounter any problems while in a refugee camp.
Photography of military personnel and installations is prohibited. You should also be careful in taking photographs in the Dahiyeh (the southern suburbs), if you don't want to get in contact with Hezbollah. The safest thing is to ask an official nearby for permission, although your request will very likely be turned down. Keep your camera in a purse just for safety. If a Hezbollah official approaches you, seeing your camera, he can't know if you've been taking pictures before that. Should you be taken in for questioning (because of taking pictures), remain calm. It might take a long time getting out of it, but it's highly unlikely that things should escalate or turn ugly. Bottom line: consider not bringing your camera at all. A trip to Dahiyeh is way too interesting and different to be spent getting questionined by the authorities.
Avoid any governmental or military convoys that may be passing by. Lebanese people have adapted to all those situations.
Tourists (including Lebanese expatriates) are especially vulnerable to scams in Beirut, and often these relate to overpricing. There is a broad perception that all foreigners have a wealth of riches, and more disturbingly, that they are powerless to complain in the event of being ripped off. A lack of regulation for many basic services in Lebanon (e.g., public transport) mean that the threat of a complaint will do little to set things straight, and your best bet is to be as vigilant as possible in the first place.
Public Transport and Taxis
When traveling in Beirut, always:
1. Let someone know where you are going and have someone expecting you on arrival. Try to avoid traveling alone.
2. Always carry your mobile phone in an easy to reach spot.
3. If traveling by taxi, always agree to the fare in advance, and pay only on arrival.
4. Ask for local recommendations on cab companies/operators - people are less likely to give you a bad experience if there's reputational damage involved.
5. In cabs, always pretend to be interested in the services of your taxi driver for future use (e.g., day rates, extended private touring) even if you are not - entertain this by asking for a contact number and tell your driver you'll "get back in touch, maybe (insert random day here) next week". If you have a good experience, it might even be a handy number to have.
You may be warned about carjackings by your car rental company; a known trouble spot is the Emile Lahoud Autostrade linking Mt Lebanon (Bikfaya area) with Beirut. Heed any recent advice.
Street signs in Beirut are generally poor, and those placed on motorways often provide insufficient notice of an impending junction or exit. Unless you're certain about your route, try to avoid driving at night, which can lead to hours of frustration.
While the Lebanese are an affectionate (and genuinely friendly) lot, beware of anyone random introducing themselves to you on the street with a hug or a handshake that draws you in to an embrace - often with a line like "oh, its you! how are you!". The assailant then threatens the victim to hand over money/wallet/phone/jewelery in a way that avoids public spectacle.
If you are unlucky enough to fall ill, head straight for the American University Hospital - aka 'the AUH' (near the AUB campus) - you will need to pay around $40 USD upfront (cash or major credit card) and be reimbursed later by your insurer.
Pharmacies in Lebanon are able to prescribe drugs on-the-spot. While this is likely to be a boon for a minority of travelers, it can leave you even more ill than when you came in to begin with. Don't chance it - see a doctor first.
City Stress
Escaping to the mountains near Beirut is a good option for those about to burn-out. Aley and Beit Mery are both near enough to the city (20-30 minutes) and are generally clean and green.
Radio stations
Radio in Beirut is quite popular, particularly with the younger people who listen to the English-spoken stations as all events and concerts are advertised through those. Arabic and French broadcasted stations are plentiful, and are worth a listen if you'd like to experience the traditional culture. Below are radio stations that are broadcasted in English:
Official Newsboxes can be found throughout the commercial areas in the city, mainly in Sassine Square ashrafieh, Verdun st. Verdun, Concorde st. Hamra. All Minimarkets/Supermarkets/Hypermarkets distribute newspapers and magazines as well.
There is a huge variety of Arabic newspapers of all sorts, as well as ethnic newspapers such as the Armenian Aztag Daily.
Many cafes and restaurants provide free WiFi to customers. Internet Cafes are plentiful in Beirut, and they should all provide printing and copying services as well as web surfing. The inner-city internet cafes tend to be more expensive (approx $2-3/hr) than those in the residential areas (approx $0.50/hr), but are also usually 'nicer' eg: providing a faster internet connection with new fast computers:
Payphones [65] can be found on all main streets all around the city, however, they can only take smart cards called Telecarte which provide a specific amount of prepaid calling time and can be used from any payphone. Telecarte denominations come in 10.000L.L (€6.6) and 30.000L.L ($20.00). Telecarte can be purchase at OGERO Sales Offices and MoT offices (most Minimarkets/Supermarkets/Hypermarkets as well as Mobile phone stores sell them).
Get out
Once you leave Beirut, visit any of the other cities in Lebanon. The country is relatively small, so no single journey to any other city should take more than two hours. Depending on the season visiting, you can go skiing in one the six mountain resorts, or go to the beaches in Tyr or one of the beach resorts in Jounieh. Visit the national heritage sites around Lebanon; every city in the country has at least some form of ancient or historic site.
Buses that head to the North city of Tripoli or to Syria and Jordan operate from the Charles Helou bus station, which is also the station for long-distance taxis that link Beirut to neighboring cities as well as Syria and Jordan. Charles Helou is located next to Port of Beirut. It can be difficult to understand the main bus routes at first but you can always ask, bus drivers are like everybody else in Lebanon, friendly and may be able to communicate in English or French.
Buses that head South -- to Sidon or Tyre -- leave from the Cola intersection.


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Peeling Gels are big business over in Asia and although I have spied a few in the past, I avoided them because they sounded a little too harsh for my delicate skin. Peeling? I prefer 'exfoliating'.
Regular readers will know I am mad for Skinfood at the moment. That's calming down as Royal Mail strikes have completely slowed down my international purchases.
Anyway – who can resist some skincare with Pineapple in it!
I've seen a few Pineapple based scrubs, cleansers and exfoliators about – they contain a-hydroxy-acids (AHA) and enzymes which help with dead skin removal.
I bought this Skinfood Pineapple Peeling Gel to try for £7 from eBay:
Did my skin become red, sore and inflamed as predicted? Or was I as happy as a…..pineapple? Jump!
This smells pineapple-like, but not the sickly type of pineapple. Its more on the tangy side, like when you get fed a really unripe pineapple that is as sour as hell.
Best pineapples come from Jamaica. They have to be eaten IN Jamaica though. Trust.
To demonstrate, I used my hand (although I did this on my face too but who wants to see hideous photographs of my dead skin balling up on my face…?)
My hand. Quite big, very useful. Would choose my fingers over my toes:
A bit of peeling gel. You only need a small bit, rub into the skin for 3-5 mins, then rinse off. The gel itself has NO scrub particles in it:
Within moments, my skin had started to do this – I think thats' the dead skin coming off (now I wasn't sure so I tried rubbing the gel with a latex glove onto a plastic surface to see if it would ball up anyway and no, it didn't so it must be my dead skin. The gel does become a bit grainy as you are rubbing in though).
Rinse and wipe"
The overall image is a bit brighter anyway, but my skin itself is a little brighter too.
On my faee it was stupendous. My skin felt like a baby's bottom – softer than any scrub had every got it and I didn't have any allergic reactions even though my skin is sensitive (I did get a slight tingle).
I would say that women with skin conditions (like eczema) need to be careful with these kinds of products though. I am surprised I didn't go red or itch but that doesn't mean you are exempt.
I am in love with this product. I want to try other types of peeling gels now! I wouldn't use this more than twice a week though incase its a little too harsh for 'all the time'.
BUY IT! I love it, I do.


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Patagonia Arbor Daypack 20L
A classic front-loader with padded laptop sleeve and accessory pockets to haul everything you need in style and comfort.
- Recycled polyester fabric body with a DWR (durable water repellent) finish offers a perfect balance of weight and durability for everyday use
- Generous front-loading compartment; zippered stash pockets on front panel; raised, padded laptop sleeve fits most 15" laptops
- Human Curve shoulder straps for carrying comfort
- Top-mounted, reinforced haul handle
- 420 g (14.81 oz)
Body: 6.2-oz 600-denier 100% recycled and solution-dyed polyester.
Lining: 3.3-oz 200-denier 100% recycled polyester.
Both with a polyurethane coating and a DWR (durable water repellent) finishView The Footprint Chronicles
420 g (14.8 oz)
19" x 12" x 4"
20L (1220 cu in)
Durable Water Repellent
DWR (durable water repellent) fabric finish repels light rain and snow and decreases dry times. When DWR is used in conjunction with a waterproof/breathable barrier, the DWR finish keeps the outer fabric from becoming saturated so that the breathable barrier can do its job.
Recycled Polyester
In 1993, we adopted fleece into our product line made from post consumer recycled (PCR) plastic soda bottles. We were the first outdoor clothing manufacturer to do so. PCR® clothing was a positive step towards a more sustainable system – one that uses fewer resources, discards less and better protects people's health.
Today, we're able to utilize more sources for recycled polyester and offer it on more garments such as Capilene® baselayers, shell jackets, board shorts, and fleece. We now recycle used soda bottles, unusable manufacturing waste, and worn out garments (including our own) into polyester fibers to produce many of our clothes.
Using recycled polyester lessens our dependence on petroleum as a raw material source, curbs discards and reduces toxic emissions from incinerators.


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Courses, Specializations, and Program Sheets
Q: How can I get information about courses?
A: The course descriptions for CS classes can be found in ExploreCourses.
The actual list of courses offered each quarter as well as links to their websites is at: http://cs.stanford.edu/Courses/classes.html.
Also, You can get student feedback for most of the courses.
Q: I would like to find out if my undergraduate coursework will satisfy the MSCS Foundation requirements.
A: You might be able to waive Foundation courses. Please read the Guide to the MSCS Program Sheet. Your faculty advisor is the person who will authorize any exemptions.
Q: It is too late to drop the class. Will it show on my transcript if I withdraw from a class now?
A: Yes. Until the "withdraw" deadline, it will show up as "W[ithdraw]" and after that, it will show up as NC (No Credit) or NP (No Pass).
Q: Can I take the same seminar more than once?
A: You can take the same seminar as many times as you want as long as you do not count more than 3 units of seminars in total towards your MS degree.
Q: Which specialization should I consider if I want to study XXXX?
A: Look through the different specializations to get an idea of which specialization would be best for you. You can find their descriptions here.
You can also design your own specialization, but it would need to get approved by the department. Individually designed specializations (IDS) should have substantial differences with existing tracks. For example, an IDS that differed from an existing concentration by only one or two classes is unlikely to be approved. Also, an IDS should have a coherent theme with a brief explanation for why the classes chosen for that IDS make sense together.
Q: Can I take independent study courses (CS393/CS395/CS399) more than once?
A: Yes, and you can count them towards your MS degree as long as you fulfill the breadth and depth course requirements.
Q: I am a second year MS student. Can I use the program sheet requirement for this year? Example: I started my MS in Fall 2000; can I use the program sheet of 2001-02 instead of 2000-01?
A: The answer is Yes. You may use any program sheet made available between the time you enrolled in the program and the time you graduate.
Q: What courses can I count as Electives on my program sheet?
A: Courses numbered above 110 in the Computer Science department (except CS196, 197, 198) can be counted as electives. In general, courses in the School of Engineering, Mathematics or Statistics departments that are numbered above 100 and are of a technical nature are acceptable, technical meaning that the course involves programming, use of college-level mathematics/statistics or engineering concepts. Other courses, for example, those in entrepeneurship, ethics, art, history, languages, athletics, and public speaking, cannot be counted as elective course work.
Residency and Unit Requirements
Q: What is the minimum number of units I can take per quarter? Is it the same for my last quarter before graduation?
A: Every student (both international and not international) has to register for at least 8 units per quarter. The only exceptions are summer quarter when the minimum is one unit, and the last quarter before graduation when students may, by filling a Request for Graduate Tuition Adjustment Form, take as few as 3 units.
Q: What is the minimum residency requirement (full-time students)?
A: The following residency policy is effective for students who begin their graduate program in Autumn Quarter 2001. You have to be registered for 45 units and no transfer units are allowed.
For information about the residency policy in effect for students who entered prior to Autumn Quarter 2001, you have to be registered for the equivalent of at least 3 full-tuition quarters. Note that a 9-unit or a 10-unit quarter will accrue less residency than a full-tuition quarter (11 units or more).
Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
Q: How can I do a curricular practical training?
A: Information can be found at the Bechtel International Center web site: http://www.stanford.edu/dept/icenter/practical/currpt.html
Q: What is the minimum number of units I have to register for if I do CPT during the summer quarter?
A: Students may choose to enroll in as little as 1 unit during the summer. CPT is a one-unit course and may be the only course on the summer quarter study list.
Q: How can I get a TA? When shall I apply?
A: Please look for emails sent to MS students by Meredith Hutchin. These emails are sent every quarter and specify the procedure to follow to apply for a TA.
Q: How can I get an RA?
A: Research Assistantships are usually offered by professors for specific projects. The best way to get an RA is to browse the research projects within the department. If you are interested in a specific project, you may contact one of the professors from the corresponding research group and explain your interests and ideas to him/her. Another way is to expose your own project ideas to professors in the field.
Q: Am I still a full-time student if I have a TA or RA appointment?
A: Yes, and you still have to take at least 8 units of courses per quarter (see previous section for unit requirement).


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Dirty Russian Politico-Media Backstabbing: Very American
Here's how politics work in Russia: be as corrupt as you want, as long as you keep your mouth shut; but criticize those above you, and they'll use their media lackeys to crush you. Just like America, in other words.
Yuri Luzhkov is Moscow's mayor-for-life, a man who's "ruled this city often like a fief for nearly two decades," enriching himself and his wife along the way. Which is fine, in Russia! (It's also fine in Washington, DC). But he made the mistake of criticizing the president, Dimitri Medvedev, in the newspaper, and suddenly the "Kremlin-controlled news media" has decided to air all of Luzhkov's dirty laundry, out of, uh, a sense of duty to the public. The NYT reports:
[A news report] criticized Mr. Luzhkov for taking a vacation in Austria this summer as Muscovites choked on noxious fumes from peat bog fires during a record heat wave, and said the mayor, an avid beekeeper, returned to Moscow only to save his hives.
This is one beekeeper that better be keepin' away—from the Kremlin! Ehh? Seriously though, Scooter Libby would fit right in over there.


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SPECIAL OFFER: BUY 2, get 20% OFF the second (use code: SECOND-20). BUY 3, get 40% OFF the third (use code: THIRD-40). Valid for all our collection of Paint By Numbers
"Planet Paris"
Craft-Ease™ - Paint By Numbers - Exclusive Series
Discover our new exclusive series of Craft-Ease™ Paint By Numbers by Independent Artists. The entire series is a new and exclusive collaboration with independent artists around the world. Our mission is to help them get more exposure and get retributed for every painting sold. So if you want to support an artist, just get one of their art as a Paint By Numbers and enjoy a relaxing time painting it for yourself!
Craft-Ease™ Paint By Numbers are exclusive masterpieces curated by amazing artists. You get to paint their vision of art. And the more art you paint from them, the more you enable them to live from their passion. So they get to create more beautiful art for us to enjoy.
This painting was created by Ali Gulec. Based in Istanbul, Turkish artist and graphic designer Ali Gulec has an eye for images that oscillate between the macabre, irreverent, and absurd. Ali is best known for his diverse skull designs and artwork, which he creates to surprise and inspire.
Want to know more about this artist? See his entire collection here
How does it work?
With Craft-Ease™ Paint By Numbers, you can re-create every detail of the paint on your own. You become the artist. Here is how:
The blank Canvas is filled with numbers. Each number is a color. Each color fills the paper. Follow the number, become the painter.
Every Craft-Ease™ Paint By Numbers includes all you need to re-create their beautiful paint:
- Our Stunning Numbered Canvas
- Ready-to-use Acrylic Paint Tubes
- 3 perfect sized brushes (for precision and efficacy)
- The original photo of the paint
More than just a hobby, painting with Craft-Ease™ Paint By Numbers is the best way to let your artistic talent come to life while supporting the artist that created it for you.
And here is the best-hidden secret: It's super relaxing and kind of meditative. All our customers are telling us the same thing: It just feels so good and relaxing, it's almost like a therapy. So please enjoy and have a great painting day.
>> Looking for a different style? Check out our entire collection of Independent Artist Series here or any of our best-seller standard series of Craft-IT™ Paint By Numbers Kits here.
Package includes:
- Craft-Ease™ Numbered Canvas (Type: High-grade Linen Fabric Canvas)
- Ready-to-use acrylic paint pots (Type: Acrylic)
- 3 different brush sizes
- A picture of the finished paint
- Size: 40*50cm (15*20 inches )
Great art takes time, so does shipping - then you always get beautiful art!
Processing time
Each Paint By Numbers kit needs to be made on-demand as you order. When you order a kit, we have to make it in our art production and exhibition center in China. Once our artists have finished their job, we ship it with the shipping method of your choice.
- Processing Time: our designers and artists need time to produce each piece - expect from 7 to 10 business working days
Time frame = Processing time + shipping lead time:
So how long should you expect in total?
- International Air Saver - from 4 to 7 weeks
- Express Shipping Methods - From 2 to 4 weeks **Not available between January 20th and 31st, 2020**
We strive to get your art tools to you as soon as possible, in fact, sooner than the above stated times whenever we can. We however do not have any control over the speed of shipment by delivery service providers nor the process and time line of custom clearance. They also have peak traffic that we have no control of. Please anticipate delays for orders placed in November and December.
It is not uncommon that the parcels are held by the customs for transit between 2 and 5 weeks particularly during peak delivery periods.
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All the order shipments can be traced with a tracking code. As soon as you place your order you will receive a confirmation email. This means that we have received your order in our system and authorized your credit card for purchase.
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If your order hasn't arrived after 60 days, please contact us at firstname.lastname@example.com. We will take immediate remedial actions.
Important note regarding Craft-Ease Exclusive Series
Our Exclusive Series Paint By Numbers Kits are created in collaboration with independent artists. For each order you place, they get paid for their hard work. And we thank you for that.
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Customer satisfaction is our priority. If you are not satisfied with your products, you may return it within 10 days of shipment for a credit or exchange. The returned item must be unused, fully functional, undamaged and in its original packaging in resalable condition.
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After recognizing that its Leica M8 camera had various problems like IR sensitivity and banding, the company's announced a plan to fix early adopter's cameras free of charge.
The plan is tricky, though:
register your M8 on Leica's website and they will send you instructions on how to send in your camera to the service center in Solms. All new cameras made from this date forward will have the problem already fixed. And to solve the IR sensitivity problem, Leica is going to give users two free filters to attach onto the lens. A better solution would have been to fix the IR issue in the camera, but what do we know?
Leica announce fixes for M8 [dpreview]


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Total RecallTotal RecallTotal Recall is a look back at the history of video games through their characters, franchises, developers and trends.
Over at the International House of Mojo, they've put together a terrific retrospective on the equally terrific adventure game Grim Fandango.
It's a fun, comprehensive retrospective, but what really grabbed me was the illustration that Colin Panetta did for it, of a skeleton that's recently been "planted." Death-by-flowers has long been one of my favorite of Grim Fandango's many creative flourishes, and I adore this illustration.
Panetta has put up a cool post walking through his process for making the image, and it also has links to the image in a bunch of different image resolutions, the better to make it your wallpaper. Nice.
MixnMojo Illustration #3: Grim Fandango [Messy Energy, Colin Panetta's Art Blog]


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Pearl Izumi Quest Shorts
Step into real cycling comfort with Pearl's Quest Shorts. They offer a stellar fit thanks to an ergonomic 6-panel cut, low-profile seams and excellent fabric that wicks and breathes so you stay dry and comfortable on every ride. They boast Pearl's Tour 3D chamois featuring 13mm of contoured padding, plus reflective accents for enhanced visibility.


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Propelled by Roger Clemens' outstanding season, the 1990 Red Sox stayed in the hunt throughout the year and clinched the American League East on the final day of the regular season, thanks to a diving catch by Tom Brunansky. But just as they had been in 1988, the Red Sox were swept by a superior Oakland team in the playoffs. During the summer, Fenway Park also hosted its first Baseball Beanpot, which featured the same four local colleges that battle for the Hockey Beanpot.
Record: 88-74, 1st in American League East
Manager: Joseph M. Morgan
Attendance: 2,528,986
Postseason: Played in American League Championship Series
In the early months of 1990, Red Sox Nation mourned the loss of Tony Conigliaro, who passed away on February 24 at age 45.
Roger Clemens had one of his best seasons, leading the league with a 1.93 ERA and winning 21 games. Clemens curiously finished second in the AL Cy Young voting to Oakland's Bob Welch, who won 27 games but sported an ERA more than a run higher than Clemens'.
Ellis Burks' 89 RBIs led an offense that wasn't particularly robust but the club's quality pitching and 88 victories were enough to win the AL East.
A couple of unusual moments stood out in a season in which the Red Sox scored just 35 more runs than they surrendered. On July 17 at Fenway Park, Boston hitters grounded into not one, but two triple plays, both 5-4-3 triple-killings initiated by the Twins' Gary Gaetti. On the first day of September, Mike Greenwell hit an inside-the-park grand slam in a 15-1 romp over New York.
On October 3, the Red Sox entered the final day of the regular season just one game up on Toronto. In the ninth inning against the White Sox with Boston leading 3-1, Chicago's Ozzie Guillen stepped to the plate with two outs and two runners on base. With the count full and the runners off at the pitch, Guillen hit a drive to right field. Red Sox right fielder Tom Brunansky's driving, sliding catch on the warning track by Pesky's Pole saved the win, ended the season and gave the Red Sox the AL East title.
Once again the Red Sox faced Oakland in the ALCS but another painful finish awaited the club. Boston dropped the first three games of the series and Clemens was ejected in Game Four after a confrontation with umpire Terry Cooney. The Red Sox lost Game Four 3-1, ending their 1990 season and extending the franchise's postseason winless streak to 10 games.
In 1990, the Red Sox clubhouse received a new weight room and multi-purpose room.
The first Baseball Beanpot was held at Fenway Park in 1990. Boston College vanquished Harvard in the championship game to win the first-ever Beanpot at Fenway Park.
|1990 Non-Red Sox Baseball At Fenway Park
|April 18
|Boston College 4, Northeastern 1 (Beanpot Semi-Finals)*
|April 18
|Harvard 6, Boston University 0 (Beanpot Semi-Finals)*
|April 19
|Boston College 6, Harvard 3 (Beanpot Championship)*
|April 19
|Northeastern 12, Boston University 3 (Beanpot Consolation)*
|May 19
|Old-Timers Game
*Starting in 1990, Fenway Park has hosted the annual Baseball Beanpot, baseball's version of the longstanding Boston hockey tradition. Originally, the competition featured the same schools that battle for Hockey Beanpot: Boston College, Boston University, Northeastern University and Harvard University. However, when BU dropped their baseball program after the 1995 season, the University of Massachusetts took their place. The Baseball Beanpot has been held at Fenway Park every year since its inception except for in 2004 and 2010, when the tournament was played at Campanelli Stadium in Brockton, MA.


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Main page content
Regents honor students for outstanding work in creative writing
Three students were recently selected to receive The University of Texas System Board of Regents' Outstanding Student Awards in Arts and Humanities for exceptional work in creative writing.
The students, representing UT Austin, UT Arlington and UT San Antonio, will be honored at the Board of Regents' meeting on Thursday, May 15. Each student was awarded $1,500 to be deposited in their respective academic departmental budgets.
"After graduation, I plan to pursue the arts on both a personal and community level"
Catherine Cleary, a student at UT Austin, was selected for excellence in poetry writing. While working toward her undergraduate degree, Cleary has also completed a certificate in nonprofits and social entrepreneurship and hopes to further her education by pursuing a master's degree in creative writing.
"After graduation, I plan to pursue the arts on both a personal and community level," Cleary said. "It's my dream to direct or found a nonprofit that brings art education and creative therapy to students who have little access in their schools to the benefits of the arts."
Samantha Jones, a student at UT Arlington, was selected for excellence in short fiction. Pursuing a minor in creative writing, Jones said she has a sincere desire to connect with readers through stories about real situations and overcoming obstacles.
"I write with the intention of becoming a real voice inside the reader's head, drawing them into a story that is not their own, but could be," Jones said. "I genuinely value the opportunity given to me by the University of Texas at Arlington to hone a lifelong hobby into a true craft."
"To even be considered for this award is both inspiring and an unbelievable honor"
Alison Ochoa, a student at UT San Antonio, was also selected for excellence in short fiction. Currently an undergraduate biology student, Ochoa, while not immersed in an academic program focused on the development of creative writing skills, has developed a passion for expressing herself through words.
"To even be considered for this award is both inspiring and an unbelievable honor," Ochoa said.
The Regents Outstanding Student Awards program is designed to provide a framework that fosters excellence in student performance, rewards outstanding students, stimulates the arts and humanities and promotes continuous quality in education.
"The arts and humanities are an extremely important aspect of higher education, and the Board of Regents is proud to have the opportunity to present these awards to such deserving students," Regents' Chairman Paul Foster said. "I congratulate our winners today for their outstanding contributions and wish them continued success as they promote the importance of expressive written art at UT System institutions."
Established in February 2012, the Regents' Outstanding Student Awards in Arts and Humanities commend students at UT System institutions excelling in one of four disciplines: musical arts, visual arts, poetry writing and short essays.
To learn more about the nomination and evaluation process and for details on future awards, please visit the Regents' Outstanding Students Awards in Arts and Humanities website.
About The University of Texas System
Educating students, providing care for patients, conducting groundbreaking research and serving the needs of Texans and the nation for more than 130 years, The University of Texas System is one of the largest public university systems in the United States, with nine academic universities, six health institutions and a fall 2013 enrollment of more than 213,000. The UT System confers more than one-third of the state's undergraduate degrees, educates two-thirds of the state's health care professionals annually and accounts for almost 70 percent of all research funds awarded to public universities in Texas. The UT System has an annual operating budget of $14.6 billion (FY 2014) including $3 billion in sponsored programs funded by federal, state, local and private sources. With about 90,000 employees, the UT System is one of the largest employers in the state.


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Protect your personal information: Tips from an ethical hacker
Many people do most everything online -- whether you're using your baby's monitor, your alarm system or even security cameras. But all that protection may not be enough to keep you from falling victim to a hacker.
Justin Farmer is a cyber security expert, better known as an ethical hacker. He also happens to be WESH 2's Angela Taylor's husband.
WESH 2 News wants to show you just how easy it is to take control of your Wi-Fi without you even knowing it.
The Arnolds of Longwood are like most families: busy. They have two children and two full-time jobs, and are always looking for ways to save time. For example, they like to pay their bills online.
"I pay every bill online," Amber Arnold said. "Electric bill, cable bill, all my credit card bills."
The Arnolds' entire life is on their computer, phones and iPads, only secured by a router with a password protected Wi-Fi.
"Nowadays, pretty much everything is connected to your Wi-Fi," cyber security expert Justin Farmer said.
Farmer is a cyber security expert, also known as an ethical hacker. He took WESH 2 News on a drive through the Arnolds' Longwood neighborhood.
"There's a few open ones on here," Farmer said.
Without even leaving the car, Farmer found dozens of homes without a secured Wi-Fi, meaning he could have exposed all of their private information in a matter of minutes.
"Once we're on the Wi-Fi, we pretty much have access to everything they do. Computers, the iPhones, the TVs," Farmer said.
With permission from the Arnold family, WESH 2 News wanted to see if Farmer could hack into their Wi-Fi, which is password protected.
"I type in their IP address and I see that I'm able to log in without any user credentials, whatsoever," Farmer said.
In less than an hour, he was able to get inside their private lives from outside their home.
"I effectively control their complete system at this point. At this point, I'm a user on their network and they don't even know I'm on their network," Farmer said.
He accessed their log-ins for banking and social media accounts.
"I saw what you searched for. I might have seen your email address you put in, potentially a password," he said.
It seems simple -- and to a hacker, it is.
"A lot of times they have a web interface as well, so you can control what the baby monitor does. If it's a pan-tilt-zoom camera, you can make it move. You can set off an alarm, you can do all sorts of things," he said.
With a little more time, Farmer was able to access everything on their home computer, which had family photos and tax documents.
"That's shocking. You know, to be so vulnerable and not even know it or realize it," Amber Arnold said.
She thought her family was secure by using a simple password. It turns out, it takes much more than that to keep information private.
So, what can you do right now to secure your personal information?
First, check your Wi-Fi's security. If it's a WEP, get rid of it now. It's the easiest to hack.
Farmer suggests using a WPA or WPA2, better known as Wi-Fi protected access.
Also, change your password right now. Use numbers, special characters and make it long.
The more complicated, the better.


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Q: How can I keep my pond & fish healthy with all of this hot weather?
Cheryl – Cheshire, OH
A: If you're feeling the heat, there's a good chance the game fish in your pond are feeling it, too. Not only will they sense the temperature increase in the water, but they'll also be affected by a decreased amount of dissolved oxygen in their environment.
So what can you do to keep the fish in your lake or pond cool and comfortable? Check out these four expert-recommended tips:
1. Provide a Cool Habitat: Like humans and other land-dwellers, fish like a place to hide to get out of the sun. They'll slip under the shade of plants, swim inside logs and take advantage of spots like the Porcupine® Fish Attractor Spheres, which encourage plant growth and give them a place to feel safe, shaded and protected.
2. Keep the Water Moving: When the water moves and circulates with an aeration system like an Airmax® Shallow Water Aeration System or an above-surface fountain like a Kasco Decorative Fountain, it allows for greater gas exchange at the water's surface, expelling dangerous ammonia and taking in healthy oxygen. This provides more "breathable" space for your fish to swim deeper in the pond – where it's cooler.
3. Rake Out Dead Debris: To cut back on the dangerous gasses being produced in your lake or pond, remove dead debris and decomposing plant matter with a Weed Cutter and Rake. Less debris in your lake means less gas is being produced.
4. Be Cautious of Water Treatments: Dead or dying organic materials can reduce oxygen levels quickly, so be cautious when using algaecides or herbicides to treat algae and other weeds. Rather than dosing your entire pond or lake, treat one section at a time, waiting a week or two before treating another area. This allows the fish to remain in the unaffected areas.
With a little planning and a some regular maintenance, you can keep your recreational pond or lake healthy no matter the temperatures. Your fish will thank you for it!
Pond Talk: What do you do to keep cool during these scorching heat waves?
Filed under: Aeration, Fish, Fish Accessories, Fish Care, Fish Habitat, Pond & Lake | Tagged: Aeration, fish habitat, fountain, heat, hot, pond tools, warm, weather, weed cutter |


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What's New?
Tom's in a new movie!
The Keeper of the Keys
Premieres on December 8th in Las Vegas
At last a funny personal development movie
Taking the Hell out of Self Help!
Think of it as The Secret meets Harry Potter!
Click here for more info about the movie...
Staring Jack Canfield, Marci Shimoff, John Gray, Tom Stone and others
New - eBooks now available on Kindle - Don't have a kindle? - No problem - click here to download free Kindle reader apps for your computer or smart phone
metabolic balance Coach Training
The WaveMaker Mastery Program


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Press Release
European countries set targets for giving everyone access to safe and affordable water and sanitation
Geneva, 23 November 2010 --
Reducing economic barriers to access to safe drinking-water is one of the key objectives of the Second Meeting of the Parties to the Protocol on Water and Health, which starts today in Bucharest, Romania. Representatives from 34 European countries, including both Parties and non-Parties to the Protocol, meet to review their progress in providing cleaner water and better sanitation to more people, especially in times of economic constraint. Water and sanitation bills can threaten strained household incomes, in rich and poor countries alike, hampering access.
"Public health cannot advance without safe water for everybody. This meeting is a further milestone in a process to increase the number of European citizens with access to safe drinking-water and basic sanitation, thus reducing the more than 330 000 cases of water-related disease that are reported on average every year in the WHO European Region," says Ms Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe. "We therefore call on all countries to be bold in adopting measurable targets for the significant reduction of the current burden of water-related disease and the fulfilment of the human right to water."
Access to an improved water supply and sanitation has in general increased across Europe, resulting in an 80% decrease in diarrhoeal disease in young children from 1995 to 2005. Nevertheless, more than 50% of the rural population in eastern countries still lives in homes that are not connected to a safe drinking-water supply, and this proportion is growing in some countries. Sanitary equipment is insufficient in some areas of Europe, and about 85 million people (including more than 20 million in the lowest-income groups in the European Union) still lack toilets in their homes. The Protocol on Water and Health is the first international legal agreement adopted to ensure access to safe drinking-water and the provision of sanitation for everyone.
The Protocol recognizes that access to safe water can only be achieved if water resources are adequately protected and wisely managed. "In the pan-European region, industrialization, intensification of agriculture, urbanization and increased demands on recreational waters, as well as the anticipated negative effects of climate change, threaten our waters. The solutions to these problems lie beyond the water and health sectors. They lie in the formulation and implementation of policies, the effectiveness of institutions, the translation of political will into action, the allocation of resources at the national and international levels, and the capacity of countries. The Protocol is a powerful tool to guide countries towards modern and effective governance," says Mr Ján Kubiš, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE).
Extreme weather events are growing in frequency and intensity, and affect both the quantity and quality of water resources, raising concern among policy-makers and citizens alike. The number of extreme events in Europe increased by 65% between 1998 and 2007, with overall economic losses doubling to €13.7 billion from the previous decade.
To respond to these problems, the Protocol provides a comprehensive framework for mutual assistance between Parties, including technical guidance and financial assistance.
Over 150 rivers run across national boundaries in Europe, so international cooperation is crucial to ensure the sustainable use of these resources. The recent sludge spill in Hungary, resulting in 9 deaths and over 150 injuries 10 years after a similar accident in Romania, is a reminder that risk from currently used and heritage industrial sites is common to many countries and can cross borders. The Protocol on Water and Health, with its parent Convention on the Protection and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes, can support action to identify and remediate contamination that can harm health through polluted water, and the Meeting in Bucharest offers a unique opportunity to discuss options.
At the Meeting, Parties will report on all water- and health-related aspects for the first time. They will review progress in achieving national targets and plan for the challenges ahead. In addition, the participants will discuss the wide variety of topics addressed over the past three years, including the ratification and implementation of the Protocol, development of integrated strategies for water and health, the specific challenges of small-scale water supply, and access to information and public participation under the Protocol.
Notes to editors
The Second Meeting of the Parties to the Protocol takes place on 23–25 November 2010 in Bucharest, Romania and is hosted by the Ministry of Environment. Romania has served as the Protocol's Chair for the last four years, and Norway will take over this role during the Meeting.
The Protocol on Water and Health to the Convention on Protection and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes is the world's first international legally binding agreement to protect human health and well-being through better water management, including the protection of water ecosystems and the prevention, control and reduction of water-related diseases.
The Protocol was adopted in 1999 and signed by 36 countries at the Third Ministerial Conference on Environment and Health. It entered into force in 2005 and has 24 Parties and 14 Signatories. The Protocol has a secretariat provided jointly by UNECE and the WHO Regional Office for Europe.
The 24 Parties (ratifying countries) are: Albania, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Belgium, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, the Republic of Moldova, Romania, the Russian Federation, Slovakia, Spain, Switzerland and Ukraine. The additional 14 Signatories are Armenia, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Denmark, Georgia, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Malta, Monaco, Poland, Slovenia, Sweden and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
The WHO European Region comprises 53 countries (http://www.euro.who.int/en/where-we-work), while UNECE serves 56 countries within and outside the European Union, in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and in North America.
The WHO system for surveillance of communicable diseases covers water-related diseases, including campylobacteriosis,viral hepatitis A, giardiasis, Shigella bloody diarrhoea, enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli infection, legionellosis and cholera.
The web sites of the WHO Regional Office for Europe and UNECE offer more information on:
Russian, French and German versions of this press release will soon be available on the WHO Regional Office for Europe web site. To subscribe to or unsubscribe from this mailing list, please send an e-mail to firstname.lastname@example.com questions about the data contained in the report, please contact:
Mr Roger Aertgeerts
Programme Manager, Water and Sanitation
WHO Regional Office for Europe, Rome Office
Tel.: +39 06 4877 528
E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com
For further information and interview requests, please contact:
Ms Francesca Bernardini
Environmental Affairs Officer
Tel.: +41 (0) 22 917 1032
E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com
Ms Cristiana Salvi
Technical Officer, Communication
WHO Regional Office for Europe, Rome Office
Tel.: +39 06 4877 543, +393480192305 (mobile)
E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com
Mr Jean Rodriguez
Senior Public Information Officer
Tel.: +41 (0)22 917 2727
E-mail: email@example.com
Ref: ECE/ENV/10/P37