text:
Today, Andrew Viterbi, Donald Bitzer and John Daugman will be among 17 honorees inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame at the United States Patent and Trademark Office headquarters in Alexandria, Va. The honor and their accomplishments are in part a testimony to the power of funding by the National Science Foundation.
Viterbi, an electrical engineer and cofounder of wireless technology giant Qualcomm, used NSF support to develop an important wireless communication technique and push for its commercialization. Bitzer, his co-inductee, used NSF support to drive the adoption of a novel system of computer-based learning that ultimately led to wide acceptance of plasma displays. Daugman used his NSF support to study basic, theoretical questions involving computer vision that later applied to his invention of iris recognition.
"The technologies created by these highly innovative people are proof positive that NSF is where discoveries begin and that those discoveries often result in useful products and processes that benefit people all over the world," said Pramod Khargonekar, assistant director of NSF's Engineering Directorate, which funded research conducted by Viterbi.
In 1987, Viterbi received the first of two NSF Small Business Innovation Research awards to further develop Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), a technology used in wireless communication throughout the world. CDMA is a digital technique that allows multiple users to communicate with cell phones, satellites and radios on the same physical channel through the sharing of bandwidth or a band of frequencies.
The award, granted two years after Qualcomm started, and at a time when the company had only 35 employees--it now has more than 16,500 employees in 157 locations worldwide--was a major step in Qualcomm's growth and the eventual acceptance of digital CDMA technology as the commercial standard for cellular telephones. CDMA previously had been used successfully by the military in the early 1950s.
Viterbi, who in 1967 had published research that revolutionized aspects of digital communication, received a second NSF SBIR award in 1989. Together, the two awards totaled more than $265,000. Qualcomm generated $19 billion in revenues in 2012.
Bitzer used his NSF support to broaden use of the first computer system to offer high-quality, computer-based education that was later coupled with plasma display technology. He, along with colleagues at the University of Illinois in the early 1960s, created PLATO, the first computer system to combine graphics and touch-sensitive screens to provide free, computer-assisted instruction to university students and local schools.
This was a novel idea at the time, seen as a way of teaching the many new students who were enrolling in U.S. colleges and universities. The increase in enrollment was in part a result of the G.I. Bill, which offered military veterans cash payments for tuition and living expenses to attend college.
Once the computer scientists were convinced that PLATO, more formally known as Programmed Logic for Automated Teaching Operations, would work, Bitzer and colleagues then pursued a belief that it was important for researchers and students to become better trained in the concepts of parallel processing on which the system operated. They submitted a grant proposal to NSF and in 1967 received funding that allowed them to grow the University of Illinois' now highly-regarded Computer-based Education Research Laboratory (CERL), which had been formally established in 1966.
From 1968 through 1974, CERL received 11 awards totaling about $4.5 million, most of them for making PLATO available for use nationally and internationally. Bitzer's NSF awards were funded by the former Office of Computing Activities, which served as a precursor to NSF's Directorate for Computer and Information Science and Engineering (CISE).
With NSF support, CERL engaged in development and research of computer-based education that ultimately led to PLATO computer systems comprising several thousand concurrently-connected terminals worldwide on nearly a dozen different networked mainframe computers by the late 1970s.
In 1972, a new display was needed for PLATO because traditional displays flickered and made users eye-weary, had no inherent memory and lacked high brightness and contrast. So Bitzer and his colleagues, Robert Willson and Gene Slottow, incorporated another of their inventions called an orange plasma display--a forerunner of today's plasma televisions.
It was a major innovation that combined memory and bitmapped graphics into one display. Plasma display is also the invention for which Bitzer and his colleagues will be honored by the National Inventors Hall of Fame.
Some 50 years later, PLATO and the materials that NSF helped develop are still in use by educators around the world. The system's longevity shouldn't surprise anyone. After all, PLATO and CERL researchers helped establish important online concepts, such as message boards, e-mail, chat rooms, instant messaging, multi-player games and remote screen sharing, that are highly beneficial to commercial industries.
Physicist John Daugman received an NSF Presidential Young Investigator Award in 1988 that supported his research at Harvard University in computer vision and in neural computing. His research on using biological strategies in computational vision laid the foundation for significant breakthroughs in pattern recognition, particularly iris recognition.
Iris recognition uses mathematical pattern-recognition techniques developed by Daugman to automatically identify individuals based on the complex and random patterns visible, from some distance, in their irises--the colored area that surrounds the pupil of a person's eye.
Daugman's award supported his research on mathematical algorithms for image analysis and encoding using wavelets, which are the basis of all of today's commercially available iris recognition systems.
These systems are used by millions of people in countries around the world for a variety of security and identification purposes. In addition, some national ID systems are based on this technology.
"The impact of these innovations demonstrates the economic and societal benefits of NSF's investments in fundamental research," said NSF Assistant Director for Computer and Information Science and Engineering Farnam Jahanian.
|Contact: Bobbie Mixon
National Science Foundation


text:
Although The Royal Mint is enjoying a new focus on bullion, UK bullion coins have hundreds of years of history.
The Royal Mint's 1,100 year history of producing fine coins make it uniquely placed to offer bullion buyers the security and reassurance that they demand.
The origin of UK bullion, The Gold Sovereign
Quality assured by Act of Parliament, the first gold Sovereign was struck in 1489 by order of King Henry VII and took its name from the regal portrait of the Monarch that appeared on its obverse – a tradition that is observed to this day.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Anjou Pear Blossoms Fragrance Oil–Fragrance Oil Spotlight
Pear is often used in edible dishes for its indulgent depth of sweetness. The same could be said for pear notes in scents. When it comes to fruity scents, usually apples lead the way. Pears however, have made it a battle; and recently have become trendy in many designer lines. This delicious fragrance oil is a beautiful combination of fresh and crisp fruit notes balanced with robust floral notes. It is a juicy, sweet mix of both worlds, anchored with luscious vanilla and musk. A great scent for any bath and body product, this fragrance also works well in room fresheners and candles too. Not only is this scent popular among Natures Garden's customers, but with their customers as well.
What does Anjou Pear Blossoms Smell Like?
This fragrance oil by Natures Garden is a sophisticated blend of bergamot, pear nectar and ripe, orchard apples; enhanced by heady garden florals of jasmine, lily, rose, pear blossoms, and gardenia, intertwined with precious woods and vanilla. An NG Original Scent!
How Do Our Customers Use Anjou Pear Blossoms Fragrance Oil?
For candle makers and home scent crafters, this fragrance is aromatic. This fragrance performed well in soy, pillar of bliss, WOW, paraffin, and Joy wax candles. The scent throw is good for both the hot and cold throw. Some of our customers even use Anjou Pear Blossoms Fragrance Oil for room freshening sprays using. This fragrance oil can also be used in oil burners and works great in sachet beads too.
On the bath and body end, this fresh fruity floral is used to make an array of wonderful products. The usage percent for this fragrance oil is 5%, and is used to make: body sprays, lotions, melt and pour soaps, whipped body butters, shampoos, conditions, and salt bars. Finally, for those of you that are cold process soapers, this fragrance is awesome. Here are the official results: Some acceleration, no ricing, no separation, no discoloration. Good scent retention.


text:
I really can't do better than The Encyclopedia of Sixties Cool in summarizing the career of Yvette Mimieux:
The California Girl: Los Angeles-born Yvette Mimieux began her career wearing a toga and fending off blue-skinned Morlocks opposite Rod Taylor in The Time Machine before settling down as the ultimate beach bunny in Where the Boys Are and then on the Dr. Kildare TV series. When hippie chicks replaced surfer girls in the public imagination, Mimieux updated herself accordingly, recording an LP, Baudelaire's Flowers of Evil, in which she read poetry to a raga accompaniment by Indian master musician Ali Akbar Khan. As an empowered woman in the '70s, Mimieux wrote a TV movie starring herself, and played a wronged woman in the cult classic Jackson County Jail. She still has a knack for doing the right thing at the right time in the right outfit; note her instructional yoga video. To judge from her appearance in a snug unitard, she still looks great in a bikini too.
So this is Yvette's equivalent of, say, Shatner's The Transformed Man LP: a chance to "show another side" of one's creativity at the height of one's fame. Unlike The Transformed Man it's of interest beyond its obvious kitsch value.
Ali Akbar Khan was one of the most respected musicians in the Indian Classical tradition, and if you can track down his Signature Series of CDs (or other recordings) it's worth it. The label this appears on is Connoisseur, his own label, which released a lot of LPs of his music during the sixties, and the Signature CDs repress those LPs. The Baudelaire LP in question is remarkable in that it actually works, unlike Sidney Poitier's LPs of Plato. The decadence and sensuality of Baudelaire's lines is accompanied by a music that to a Westerner is also filled with decadence and sensuality.


text:
Cardeas Pharma, a biotechnology company led by Seattle biotech entrepreneur Bruce Montgomery, has reeled in $5 million in venture financing from Novo Ventures, Avalon Ventures, WRF Capital and others, reports Xconomy. The round is expected to close with up to $7.5 million.
Montgomery is a well regarded biotech leader, having previously sold Corus Pharma to Gilead Sciences for $365 million and serving as vice president of research at PathoGenesis.
It is unclear what type of drug Cardeas is working on, though WRF Capital's Thong Le tells Xconomy that it involves a licensing deal with a company where Montgomery previously worked.
Montgomery most recently served as senior vice president of Gilead's respiratory drug division, but stepped down from that role last year.
Update: WRF's Capital confirmed the financing round, and told GeekWire:
"We are not just betting on Bruce. We are also betting on Melissa Yeager and a small development team that we have previously backed before in the past. Bruce, Melissa and the team at Cardeas Pharma represent one of the most talented group of executives that we have worked with who know how to clinically develop new products and know how to work collaboratively with the FDA to get them to patients rapidly and cost-effectively."


text:
This is our website. Would you prefer to shop on our website?
This is our website. You previously shopped on our website. Would you like to go to our website now?
Other country sites
My Account
My Bag
The item was successfully added to your Wish List
You are here:
Find the uniform of a champion in this all-encompassing running collection. Crafted with superior technologies, cuts and comforts. Become your own hero as you feel inspired to push yourself above and beyond with our women's running jackets, tights, leggings, shorts and trainers. Wear an icon and be an icon in Nike.
We use cookies to give you the best customer experience possible. If you continue to use our website, we will assume you are happy to receive cookies from us and our partners.
More info


text:
Judging by your K rate, how does it feel to throw an invisible baseball? Seriously though, are strikeouts your goal, or would you be happier getting a first-pitch ground out? And do you have one pitch that has been your strikeout pitch?
Haha, our pitching coach Larry Owens said that to me earlier in the season. I would much rather prefer to get a guy out on the first three pitches no matter what. I think a key for me is that I'm able to get ahead of the guys, and put them away when I have 2 strikes. I try to throw my fastball to four different spots and I think not throwing the ball down the middle of the plate has helped me so far this year.
Full interview at the link.


text:
Starting next week, Apple Stores will start repairing or replacing damaged iPhone 5C screens, according to 9to5mac.
Here's how it would work. If a customer has a scratched or cracked screen, he can bring it to his local store and have them fix it in under an hour. For this process, phones not under a protection plan would cost $US149 to repair.
This method would be much more convenient than resorting to shipping it somewhere else and having to re-install all your most important apps and data.
9to5Mac's article mentions that Apple has been testing these replacements in a small number of stores across the U.S., but the international rollout will begin next week.
Despite this, iPhone 5S repairs are still in the testing phase and won't be rolled out just yet. Check your local Apple Store on January 20.
Business Insider Emails & Alerts
Site highlights each day to your inbox.
Follow Business Insider Australia on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.


text:
Last weekend, a confluence of events led to three Valparaiso teams having the opportunity to face squads from one of the nation's premier conferences in the Big Ten within a 72-hour stretch. And by the end of the weekend, not one, not two, but all three teams had stepped up to the challenge and earned victories over their Big Ten opponents.
And while the results of the games made for historic moments for all three programs, perhaps the biggest thing that came out of the weekend was a mantra repeated over and over - confidence. Confidence not only for each of the three programs moving forward this season, but also the hope that confidence can spread throughout the athletic department, so that every Valpo team has the confidence going into games that they can be the next team to earn that big victory.
The Games
First up was the women's soccer team, who welcomed Northwestern to Brown Field on Thursday night. For the Crusader women's program, they had already earned a milestone win earlier in the year, defeating DePaul in their season opener for their first-ever win over a major-conference opponent. With that result in their back pocket, they entered the fixture against Northwestern ready to take on the Wildcats.
"Beating DePaul earlier this season really gave us a lot of confidence going into the Northwestern match," said Tara Ellis. "We've also played Northwestern multiple times during our spring season, and they've always been really tight matches."
As it has been all season long, the Crusader defense held strong once given the lead on a 33rd minute goal by freshman Katriona Anesini, keeping the Wildcats at bay and allowing just four shots on goal, all of which were saved by goalkeeper Kristen Manski to secure the 1-0 victory, the Valpo women's soccer program's first ever against a Big Ten team.
"I thought we started off the game really strong," said Ellis. "Our attacking patterns were going well, and then Kat comes off the bench - two minutes later, the ball was in the net. Defensively, we did a good job keeping Northwestern where we needed to keep them. We stayed on the players we needed to mark throughout the game."
Two nights later, it was the volleyball team's turn to face a Big Ten foe, as the Crusaders had a showdown against Iowa for the Popcorn Classic championship. Having taken down Indiana in Bloomington a season ago for its first-ever win against a Big Ten opponent, Valpo was eager to do the same in front of its home crowd this season.
The first set, Valpo came out and led nearly start-to-finish in taking the lead over the Hawkeyes. The next three sets would all be nip-and-tuck battles, featuring a total of 38 tie scores and 15 lead changes. But the Crusaders stood toe-to-toe with Iowa and came out ahead in both the second and fourth sets to defeat a Big Ten opponent for the second straight year.
"It's huge, knowing that we are able to compete with a Big Ten team and that all our hard work is truly paying off," said Janelle Hobbs. "It was great this year to be at home as well, to show our fans what its like to beat a Big Ten team and to be able to protect our house against that type of team."
"When you're talking about beating a Big Ten team in volleyball, a team from a league that's second in the nation in RPI, it's a really big deal," said head coach Carin Avery. "And now to be able to do it two years in a row is just an awesome achievement for our girls and our entire program."
Finally, just 15 hours after the volleyball team concluded its victory, the men's soccer team took the pitch in East Lansing to take on a top-25 Michigan State team. Having played right with Michigan State, along with some other quality sides, a number of times over the past few years, the Crusaders knew the test that they were in for Sunday afternoon.
"The more opportunities we have to play teams of this caliber, the more competitive we become each and every time out," said head coach Mike Avery. "We want to be a team that not only wins our league, but plays deep into the NCAA Tournament, and history has shown that this is the type of first-round game the Horizon League representative draws. Having that game under our belts, whatever the result, lets us know we can be competitive in that game when that opportunity comes."
Todd Vervynckt gave Valpo the lead midway through the first half, a lead which would stand up for nearly 45 minutes before Michigan State equalized in the 67th minute. Unfazed, the Crusaders stood their ground, striking back inside of 12 minutes later, as Nick Suker found the back of the net for what would be the match-winning goal in the 2-1 win. The victory was the men's soccer program's second over a Big Ten team in the last decade.
"We talked about it with our guys before - there's a few opportunities each season to create special moments, by winning the bigger games on the schedule - the game that will really set the season apart," said Avery. "I was really proud of the guys on Sunday, because they took the opportunity and seized it - they were not fearful at all. We went straight out and played, and I'm most proud of the fact we didn't luck into the win - I felt, on the day, we were the better team and we earned it."
The Aftermath
While the wins over Big Ten opponents for all three programs were impressive, for each team, they are but just one game over the course of a long season. More important goals lie ahead for the programs - the Horizon League regular season, the league tournament and trying to earn a bid into the NCAA Tournament.
The results of last weekend's games don't count towards the league standings, but still will prove worthwhile in the end, as the one theme which surfaced again and again was the confidence the wins would give the teams moving forward as they approach league play.
"We want to challenge ourselves - we want to find out how good we can be," said women's soccer head coach John Marovich. "Ultimately, the goal is to prepare our team for Horizon League championship play, so you schedule these games to help prepare you for that ultimate goal. We learn how to hang on to a game against a team at that level, a pressure situation that we can't replicate in training. Playing a game like that, it gives you confidence going forward."
"I think a win like this ends up being a definite confidence builder," said men's soccer player Tom Serratore. "Most of the games in the Horizon League tend to be very close games, and then you get to tournament time and you face high-pressure situations. Now we have under our belts a close game on the road against a Big Ten team, a high-pressure situation, and we've been able to manage the game and come out with a win - knowing that we've done it before will give us confidence when we face that type of game later in the year."
"It just gives us the confidence that it doesn't matter who is on the other side of the net," said Hobbs. "Just as long as we take care of our side, how we're playing, we can make great things happen."
And while the individual programs gain confidence from their invididual results, the athletes also see other teams' victories, such as softball and baseball's victories in the NCAA Tournament a season ago, and look to step up and be the next team to get that big win for the athletic department.
"I think it goes back to 2011 when we were the first Valpo team to win the Horizon League, something that hadn't happened yet," said Serratore. "We broke that door down, and now it seems like we're constantly winning league titles. When other teams are winning big games, we see it with the mentality of 'why not us too?'. There's no reason to think we can't compete with these teams when we see other teams winning these games - I think we all gain confidence from each other's successes."
"I think it is really a ripple effect," said Ellis. "Here at Valpo, we're all really very supportive of our fellow student-athletes, whether its in person at the ARC, attending each other's games, tweeting at each other on social media. I think seeing all these other teams winning, there's a real big drive to want to win - to be the next team to get that big win and to be the next team to get a league championship ring."
"You see other teams win big games, and you're happy for them," said Hobbs. "At the same time, we want those kind of wins just as badly for ourselves too. We want to be one of those teams raising the bar for the entire athletic department, and I think everybody feels the same way."


text:
Nude & White Non-Padded Full Cup Bras 2 Pack - 34Ftuc132840116
Check stock
Tell us where you are to check stock:
Delivery & Returns
Next day collection
- Order before 2pm
Home delivery
- 1 to 2 days
Free returns to store
30 days
Design details
Update your intimate essentials with our two pack of non-padded full cup bras. Designed with supersoft lining in the underwired cups, they feature pretty lace and bow details, full adjustable straps and double hook and eye fastenings for an ideal fit.
- 1 x Nude
- 1 x White
- Underwired
- Non-padded
- Supersoft liner
- Bow and lace details
- Adjustable straps
- Double hook and eye fastening
- Model's height is 5'9''
- Model wears a size 34D
- 84% Polyamid
- 16% Elastane
- Excludes Trims
- Machines Washable
The small print
*Prices correct as displayed but are subject to change.
The customer and brand answers you'll see above are submitted independently. As we don't review these answers, we can't take responsibility for anything they may say. The responses from Argos colleagues are accurate at the time of publishing. For the latest info, you should check the product page.


text: I have been wanting to do some single bevel stuff for quite some time. I had one profiled and HT's with the bevel ground in for about 8 months now. I finally got my 48" platen in, so i decided to grind in the urasuki while i was putting the bevels on the last of Zitangy's petties. Now this is my first single bevel knife and it is a tester, so dont judge the lack of proper finishing lol. Specs: Blade; 210mm edge W2, with a real dirty 600 grit finish. Thickness: 2.46mm . Bevel is 13mm tall. Heel is 47.5mm tall. Bevel side Ura side Choil/bevel So let me have it!!! lol


text:
Related Suppliers
Even in many smaller precision parts shops, turn-mill machines have become a significant factor in helping to broaden their scope to handle lower volumes and prototyping work. While such multitasking operations can deliver the necessary faster cycle times and throughput that this type of work demands, the complex processes can require additional programming knowledge. Software developers are continually finding new ways to bridge this potential gap.
Methods Machine Tools has recently announced upgrades for CAMplete turnmill software, offered on all Nakamura-Tome multitasking machines. The software is an integrated suite of G-code editing, optimization, analysis and verification tools enabling a range of turn-mill functions and comes standard on the full line of Nakamura multitasking turning centers.
Version 6.0 of the software offers added support for Fanuc Macro B language including G# and M# calls; G65 macro calls; local, common, system and shared variables; variable math; IF / GOTO statements and sub program calls. Users now have the ability to create custom macros that can be easily inserted into any G-code or formatted program.
Upgrades also include improved error handling, reporting and navigation, and an enhanced simulation progress display that now shows nested program calls. Newly designed regeneration controls have been added to show the active program and current location, including line number, within the program.
Post processing support has been broadened in the latest version to be compatible with Delcam's PowerMill CAM software for milling from CUT files for 3+2 milling, 5-Axis milling and canned cycles; Mastercam CAD/CAM software support from NCI files; as well as Open Mind's HyperMill post processing from POF files. Mastercam and HyperMill post processing works with ATC- and WT-series machines, turning, milling and 5-Axis milling.
"CAMplete TurnMill Version 6.0 features upgrades that will further enhance our Nakamura multitasking solution. Users now have a number of new functions which will result in greater productivity." said Mr. Richard Parenteau, Director of Applications Development at Methods Machine Tools, Inc.
Read about how one international player in the highly competitive aeronautics, automotive, defense and optical industries makes the most of CAMplete software in the article "Software Simplifies Turn-Mill Operations."
Understanding Post Processors
What is a post processor? A software engineer from CNC Software, makers of Mastercam programming software, explains the different types of CNC post processors, the different types of post processor users and the different levels of functionality in post processors.
Programming Multi-Axis Lathes
You're going to need more than the CAM program you're currently using for your standard CNC lathes and mills.
There Are Apps For That, Too
These two iPhone apps provide manufacturing professionals and students with quick access to helpful cutting tool information directly from their smart phones.


text:
Choose another date
04th May 2020
This course is suitable for all NDT personnel, inspectors and technicians engaged in, or responsible for, inspection of castings, forgings or fabricated items during manufacture or in-service in different product sectors.
It is also suitable for personnel working in the aerospace industry.
Certification available in this method (Levels 1 and 2):
This course will teach you about the principles of magnetism, magnetic fields, induction, permeability and reluctance, and magnetisation. You will also learn about lines of force, methods of testing, interpretation of indications, demagnetisation, practical exercises, methods of assessing sensitivity, and instruction writing.
During the Level 2 instruction writing and application, attendees requiring only Level 1 training will carry out practical applications to written instructions.
Training is in accordance with the requirements of BS EN ISO 9712 and the course ends with the certification examination.
By the end of the course, you should be able to:
TWI Training and Examination Services, TWI Ltd, Granta Park, Great
Abington, Cambridge CB21 6AL, United Kingdom. Copyright ©
2018 TWI Ltd. All rights reserved.


text:
Feverfew Herb
Veterinarian Reviewed on June 15, 2012 by Paulina Nelega, RH
Posted in Uncategorized
Feverfew Herb
The Feverfew herb is a perennial plant which has yellow-green lobed leaves with daisy-like flowers. It propagates using its seeds, divisions, and cuttings. Once planted, growth will be evident in ten to fourteen days. The seedling can be done in the months of February or March and planting is made in June. Regular soil cultivation must be provided to produce rich and healthy plants. It flourishes under the full sun using loam soil fertilized with manure. The harvesting is made at the peak of flowering. The leaves are useful either fresh or dried.
History and Origin
Feverfew herb originates from Southwest Europe, and is known by other names such as Chrysanthemum parthenium, Tanacetum parthenium, Featherfoil, Bachelor's buttons, and Flirtwort. In a story, feverfew herb was used in saving the life of someone fallen from Parthenon that relates to its name "parthenium". Feverfew herb was brought to America as an ointment, but was cultivated commercially in Europe, Africa, and Japan.
Ancient Uses
The Greeks traditionally used feverfew herb as an antipyretic, and is a common treatment for Headaches caused by a migraine. Extract from the feverfew herb can relieve asthma, arthritis, dermatitis, and menstrual pain. When planted around the house, it can purify the air due to its strong and lasting odor. The blossom can be an insect repellant as well as an insect bite ointment.
Modern Uses
Feverfew herb may lessen the pain caused by arthritis, especially at the time of intense inflammatory phase. It helps to eliminate swelling and the pain brought about by the arthritic condition. Feverfew herb can be used in relieving menstrual cramps by regulating the release of prostaglandin. It is also used as a mouthwash after a tooth extraction. A hot blend of the Feverfew herb can reduce fever. People may be relieved from mild depression. Feverfew herb can also lessen nerve pain and promote sound sleeping. Feverfew herb can also act as tranquilizer, external antiseptic, abortifacient, and insecticide.
Feverfew herb relieves headaches cause by migraine. Migraines are found to be related to the alterations of blood flow in the brain. The serotonin levels in the brain can have an influence in the blood vessels that are transporting blood to the head. The sesquiterpenes and parthenolide substances from feverfew herb can intervene with the release of serotonin from the platelets. Sesquiterpene lactones help the muscular tissues of cerebral blood vessels and provide an insensitivity to other substances within the body.
Side Effects
Feverfew herb withdrawal can cause episodes of ill effects. Some adverse effects include increase of heart rate. The possible side effects are indigestion, abdominal pain, diarrhea, flatulence, vomiting, nervousness, and nausea. A person having allergies with feverfew may experience some skin irritation.
Feverfew herb can increase normal tendency of bleeding, and must not be taken by people that will undergo surgery. It also has a tendency in altering menstrual cycle of women. Pregnant women, breast-feeding mothers and children below two years old should not use feverfew herb.
The less feasible side effects of feverfew herb are constipation, stomach upset, heartburn and diarrhea. When the unprepared feverfew leaf is chewed, it can render losing of taste and inflict mouth irritation.
Our Expert
Paulina Nelega, RH, has been in private practice as a Clinical Herbalist for over 15 years. She has developed and taught courses in herbal medicine, and her articles on health have appeared in numerous publications. She is very passionate about the healing power of nature. Ask Dr. Jan


text:
Four-Axis Fiber-Laser Welding System Headed to Italian Manufacturer
There are 0 comments | Post a comment
Saturday, December 1, 2012
Mechanical-seal manufacturer Fluiten Italia S.p.A., Milan, Italy, has commissioned a new four-axis fiber-laser-welding system from Prima Power Laserdyne, Champlin, MN. The Laserdyne 430 machine will weld high-pressure and temperature-resistant components used in the manufacture of Fluiten seals. It operates at speeds to 800 in./min., accurate to 0.0005 in., with a work envelope of 23 by 16 by 20 in.
See also: Prima Power Laserdyne, LLC
Related Enterprise Zones: Fabrication


text: 5mm blue ric rac £0.45 Quantity: at £0.45 each Add To Basket 15 in stock. Ric rac is perfect for trimming all sorts of craft projects from cushions, to lampshades and even adding detail to your clothes making projects. 5mm wide price is per metre, multiples will be supplied as a continuous piece.


text:
New Law In Korea Means Google Bans The Uploading Of Music On Any Blog
from the life-without-safe-harbors deptWhile some in the copyright community feel that things like the DMCA safe harbors are bad, it's worth watching what happens in situations where they don't exist. South Korea just changed its copyright law, such that sites that don't filter for copyrighted material can potentially be liable. So, what is the response? Google is now forbidding the uploading of any music files to avoid liability and possible shut down under the law (the law is a three strikes law that doesn't just apply to users, but to sites that the users use) (found via Techmeme). Lucas Gonze does a good job laying out the damage this causes:
The problem is not the freedom to use copyrighted content. I don't know of any such freedom. The problem is the right to play.Oh, and don't forget, the entire reason why South Korea is suddenly putting in place draconian, self-damaging, protectionist, copyright policies is because the entertainment industry went on a huge lobbying campaign claiming that South Korea was a haven for piracy, and then had the US gov't include requirements for much more stringent copyright laws in a free trade agreement -- despite the fact it was about the opposite of free trade. The entire purpose wasn't free trade, but protectionism of the US entertainment industry. Soon after that passed, we noted that it would require shutting down any service that permitted unauthorized reproduction... and we're seeing the impact of that now.
A guitar teacher will be unable to post lessons, and a guitar student will be unable to post homework. Two musicians working together at a distance will be unable to share unfinished multitracks. An unsigned classical quartet will be unable to post samples of their work. Only the tiny few who work on commercially published recordings will still be able to be heard, and even only the small proportion of their recordings that are completed commercial works will be heard.
Most musicians are amateurs with no financial interest in copyright. The proportion of amateurs to professionals is so overwhelming that the word "musician" is a synonym for "amateur." Whenever copyright is wielded on behalf of the professionals in a way that makes it harder for amateurs to make music, it is hurting musicians.
South Korea has been a leader in internet technologies. It had real broadband (both wired and wireless) to nearly every home well before almost every other country. As such, it has a thriving internet industry... but it has also had a thriving entertainment industry made up of execs who embraced the internet. Folks like JY Park, who recognizes that selling music directly is the past, but by embracing that fact, is building a media empire. But, of course, the folks back in Hollywood don't want to compete and don't want to change... so they got the US gov't to force South Korea to put in place these ridiculous copyright laws that help them and harm pretty much everyone else.
Filed Under: copyright, liability, lobbying, south korea, uploads
Companies: google


text:
Having issues...........!!!!
Running: SUSE Linux Enterprise 11 SP2 64-bit with 3.0.42-0.7 kernel.
I am having an issue installing the SUSE supplied (via the ATI repository?) driver for my ATI Radeon HD 4350 card, booting the system will just hang on a black screen and do nothing. I've also tried downloading and installing the ATI Catalyst driver from the AMD website but it won't build (error inserting fglrx, No such device type errors). I Googled and found a potential hack but that doesn't work either. I get similar results with previous versions of the Catalyst driver, 12.4, 12.2 etc.
I believe SUSE installed two RPMS, x11-video-fglrx and ati-fglrx02 or a name similar to those via an online update and I've tried to remove those, but they don't appear when I do an rpm -qa.
Has anyone had this issue before and fixed it?
Thanks in advance,


text:
Free shipping. How does this work?
More Details please go discrete-shipping page.
Made of high-quality TPE. Customize your own doll
128cm Sex Doll- Body Style on Main Image Shown
Make her unique by selecting your specific desired options below. Other body styles available
*Model has been styled with hair, makeup, clothing and accessories for photo display
Security is one of our main core values. To ensure that our website is SSL Encrypted, our back end system is protected by Shopify, and we use Shopify Secured and Paypal to guarantee your privacy and safety. we won't process your order until we can confirm that your payment information is legit and accurate. With all these systems in place we make sure that you and us are both safe.
You can pay with Paypal. Credit options, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, JCB, Discover, and Diners Club debit and other credit cards will be supported.
If you have any other question, please feel free to contact us.
If you have any other question, please feel free to contact us.


text:
Circuit Training
Event Date:
November 2, 2018 - 6:30am to 7:30am
Event Description:
Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays
A fun and invigorating class which will utilize a variety of techniques to improve your cardiovascular fitness. Aerobic activities allow you to develop the fitness necessary to comfortably walk, run, climb stairs, etc. These activities will allow you to burn calories in a fun and interactive environment.


text:
It's a natural fit for February's Windows Phone Photo Challenge theme to be "love". With Valentine's Day right around the corner you are challenged to submit a photo that captures the emotion of love.
For those not familiar, Microsoft sponsors a "bragging rights" photo contest each month with a particular theme. Just snap a photo with your Windows Phone based on the theme and if you win Microsoft will share the photo on their Windows Phone Blog, in their newsletter, and share it on their Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest pages.
Here's how to enter.
- To enter, please e-mail your entry to https://www.windowscentral.com/e?link=https%3A%2F%2Fmicrosoft.msafflnk.net%2Fc%2F159229%2F433017%2F7593%3FsubId1%3DUUwpUdUnU14690%26subId2%3Ddwp%26url%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.microsoft.com%252Fen-us%252F&token=XUFfQn8r
- In the subject line of your e-mail, please write "CHALLENGE: LOVE"
- The photo you send must have been taken with (and edited, if you prefer to edit) on a Windows Phone. Please attach the original JPEG file to your e-mail, with metadata included. If the photo has been edited, please let us know which apps/settings you used.
- Please name your image file using your first and last name, followed by the theme of the contest (this month it's "Love"). So, for instance, my e-mail would include a photograph named DavidChenLove.JPG or DavidChenLove.JPG.
- Please use the highest resolution possible when sending your photos. One entry per person, please.
- This challenge runs from now until 11:59 p.m. PDT on Friday, February 8th, 2013.
- After the contest deadline, we will look over all of your entries and choose our favorites.
- Entries will be judged on their creativity, resourcefulness, aesthetic beauty, and just the overall impression your photo makes on us.
- Winning entries may be posted on the blog, in our newsletter, as well as shared on our Twitter, Facebook, and Pinterest pages about two weeks after the contest has ended.
You can find the full rules here and for those who take the plunge, good luck!
Source: Windows Phone Blog
Rainbow Six Siege Year 5: What to expect in 2020
As Rainbow Six Siege Year 5 approaches, we've wrapped up everything we know about its Operators, maps, and more so far.
Rainbow Six Siege coming to PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X
Ubisoft plans to bring Rainbow Six Siege to PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X on launch day, while also hopeful of delivering cross-play and cross-platform progression soon.
Should you get an SSD or HDD when building your PC?
Building or upgrading a PC and don't know whether to go with SSD or HDD for your storage? Let's break it down.
Choose this RAM for your AMD Ryzen 7 3700X
Pairing up your AMD Ryzen 7 3700X with some fast, reliable RAM can make all the difference. We rounded up some of the best module kits to use with this powerful AMD processor.


text:
Annie's 101 Crochet Stitch Patterns & Edgings #871201
Basic Information
Get 81 unique stitch patterns and 20 edgings using crochet thread or yarn all in one great book!
Plus a bonus of two sample afghans made using stitch patterns are included in the book.
Each design features a close-up color photograph plus instructions and illustrations when needed.
Find open weave lacy stitches, ripples, bobbles, popcorns, textured stitches and more!
Edited by Connie Ellison.
Skill Level: Easy to Intermediate
Springwools offers a flat rate of €3.99 delivery for any quantity, anywhere in the World!


text:
Felix ready for baseball after eventful offseason
PEORIA, Ariz. -- Felix Hernandez is enjoying his team's new clubhouse and facilities at the Peoria Sports Complex, the team's Spring Training home, but the Mariners ace is less thrilled about having to find a new house back in the Seattle area this offseason.
Hernandez's 5,100-square foot house in Bellevue, Wash., was heavily damaged in a fire in November, and he and his wife and two children had to move to a rental home while awaiting completion of a new house in the same area.
"The whole house is smoke damaged," Hernandez said Friday before heading out to the second day of pitchers and catchers workouts. "It's all lost. I was building another one, so I'll just sell it. I was going to keep it, but not now."
The five-bedroom, four-bath home was valued at $2.85 million, according to King County public records. Hernandez and his wife, Sandra, were vacationing in Napa, Calif., when they got a call saying there was a fire at their house, with three fire departments responding.
His two children were at home with his mother-in-law and a nanny at the time, but had gone to a shopping mall when the blaze broke out.
How much did Hernandez freak out when he heard about the fire?
"A lot," he said. "We just got on a plane and said, 'Let's get out of here.' Thankfully the kids were OK."
The house, however, remains on the disabled list along with many of the family's belongings.
"They still don't know what's going on," Hernandez said. "It's not fun. It was not a good offseason. But the baseball is good. I'm excited to get going."


text:
My guy hinted that he wanted to see me in sexy outfits, so I bought some lacy, girlie lingerie. Now Im too embarrassed actually to wear them to bed. Im afraid hes going to think theyre not sexy on me. What should I do?
Wait, he hinted that he wanted to see you in sexy nighties, so why are you even questioning it to begin with? Most guys are massively turned on by women in lingerie its mysterious, naughty, and basically, you with a soft, lacy allure. Obviously, your guys already attracted to you, so its hard for me to imagine that lingerie will suddenly change his mind. And let me remind you again: He asked for it!
If you feel at all embarrassed or unsure of yourself, maybe start off slow. You might want to create some ambience using candles or a light dimmer so you dont feel like youre on display and exposed. But I can practically guarantee that if you do let your guy see you in your new sexy duds, hell be beyond excited.


text:
Posted: Oct 19, 2009
Skyline Releases Women's Soccer Report #7
- Katrina Cerverizzo named to Honor Roll
Clifton Park, N.Y. - The Skyline Conference released the seventh Women's Soccer report for the 2009 season this afternoon, including Player of the Week, Rookie of the Week, Honor Roll and Conference statistics.
Sophomore forward Katrina Cerverizzo (Center Moriches, N.Y./Center Moriches) was named to the Player of the Week Honor Roll. Cerverizzo scored two goals in the Rams 8-0 non-conference victory over Staten Island.
To view the full report, click HERE.


text:
I think you can all agree that last night's Live stream was absolutely superb. I had so much fun with all you guys and like always I really appreciated the suggestions and comments as I made this tutorial on "how to draw zombie Sonic", step by step. Just by looking at the finished drawing and how it's colored in, I know for a fact that I'm finally getting used to the new tablet. Anyways, the zombie Sonic idea was such an epic idea and I want to give myself props for conjuring up the idea to have Tails two tails ripped off and being displayed as Sonic just holds them there bleeding in his hands. When my mom and siblings saw the tutorial, they were like "omg, this is so awesome Dawn". I was like "really"? I guess they liked the tutorial and to be honest, who can blame them I mean look at it. Anyways, I hope you guys enjoy learning how to draw zombie Sonic as much as I did making this concept out. It was really fun, and I may surprise you all with another popular zombie character that you may know. Till then, adios and peace out!
DragoArt members upload artwork and drawing tutorials! They are also allowed to leave comments on tutorials, profiles, etc. Many more features, as well; it's way better than just being a boring guest! Register Now!


text:
SKF helps change bearing standards for better machine integration
2014 July 17, 14:00 CESTGothenburg, Sweden, 17 July 2014: SKF, a global supplier of innovative bearing solutions, gave major contribution to the development of the revised ISO 492 standard, which will enable customers to better integrate bearings into their machinery.ISO 492 incorporates GPS (Geometrical Product Specifications), enabling the tolerance of rolling bearings and the ISO GPS systems to be based on the same platform. As a global provider of innovative bearing solutions SKF has naturally been a leader in defining the conversion process to the new standards. A number of SKF experts have been involved in the review of ISO 492, which has resulted in the final draft of the standard."The benefits for our customers will be better descriptions of SKF products in terms of functions," explains Alexander de Vries, Director, SKF Group Product Development. "ISO 492 will give users more information about the interface between SKF products and the rest of their machinery in order to better integrate our products. Today you need to be an expert in bearings, to understand that for instance, the bearing diameter is given as an average, but with revised ISO 492 this dimension is clearly described by using the common industrial language of ISO GPS. It functionally takes the interface between the bearing and another mechanical part into account."Work on the new standard began at a symposium that was held in September 2008 in Vienna where rolling bearing specialists including SKF and GPS experts met in order to align their systems and philosophies."SKF has been closely involved in developing these new standards, which will improve performance and efficiency for the users," Alexander de Vries added; "ISO 492 will offer more information on exactly how a bearing will fit into a machine system, both at the assembly stage when mounting the products and during operation."Aktiebolaget SKF(publ)For further information, please contact:Monique Turner, SKF Group Communications, +1 267 436 6836; +1 215 801 8722 email@example.com is a leading global supplier of bearings, seals, mechatronics, lubrication systems, and services which include technical support, maintenance and reliability services, engineering consulting and training. SKF is represented in more than 130 countries and has around 15,000 distributor locations worldwide. Annual sales in 2012 were SEK 64,575 million and the number of employees was 46,775. www.skf.com® SKF is a registered trademark of the SKF Group.™ BeyondZero is a trademark of the SKF Group.
Download press kit
- Zeichnung (249 KB) preview


text:
Hawkshead use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Learn more about our cookies here.
Regatta Women's Myla Waterproof Insulated Jacket - Dark Khaki
Women's Myla Waterproof Insulated Jacket
100% Polyester
Standard Delivery (orders over £60) - FREE
(Delivery within 3-6 days)
Standard Delivery - £3.95
(Delivery within 3-6 days)
Next Day Delivery - £6.95
(Order by 7pm for next working day delivery - Monday to Friday, or order by 5pm Sunday*)
Premium Next Day Delivery - £9.95
(Order by 7pm for next working day delivery - Monday to Friday, or order by 5pm Sunday*)
Hermes Parcel Shop - £4.95
(Order before 5pm Monday to Friday - delivery within 48 Hours to a convenience store of your choice)
* Exceptions Apply. For a list of exception postcodes please visit our Delivery Information page here.
Return your unwanted items with Hermes Parcel Shop within 28 days for a full refund.
Hermes Parcel Shop is a convenient way to return parcels at any one of their 5,000 local stores, most open early or late, 7 days a week.
For more information, click here


text:
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Factory activity expanded at its slowest pace in six months in April, the latest sign that economic growth continued to lose momentum early in the second quarter, though the recovery has not been derailed.
Even as the economic picture has dimmed in recent weeks as the effects of government austerity started to filter through, strength in the housing market has provided an anchor.
New home sales in March were at their second-highest level in three years and overall house prices rose in February, other data showed on Tuesday.
"The numbers are not suggesting that the economy is surging, but none of them are really showing that the economy is falling off the cliff," said Jim O'Sullivan, chief U.S. economist at High Frequency Economics in Valhalla, New York.
Financial data firm Markit said its "flash," or preliminary, factory purchasing managers' index fell to 52.0 this month from 54.6 in March as output, employment and new orders pulled back.
It was the lowest index level since October, though a reading above 50 does indicate growth.
While the Markit PMI has a shorter history and has been trending higher than an established, competing index from the Institute for Supply Management, its direction is in line with other surveys showing a cooling in manufacturing activity in April.
The Richmond Federal Reserve Bank said on Tuesday its gauge of factory activity in the central Atlantic region dropped into negative territory this month, pulled down by weak shipments and new orders.
The region covers the District of Columbia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and most of West Virginia. These are among states expected to be hardest hit by deep government spending cuts, known as the sequester.
Taken together with other weak regional manufacturing surveys released so far this month, Tuesday's factory data pointed to a slackening in activity at the start of the second quarter, economists said.
Although manufacturing accounts for only about 12 percent of the U.S. economy, it has played a pivotal role in the recovery from the 2007-09 recession.
The government is expected to report on Friday that the economy grew at a 3.0 percent annual rate in the first quarter, according to a Reuters survey, rebounding from a paltry 0.4 percent gain in the final three months of 2012.
Economists, however, are looking for an expansion of only around 1.5 percent or so in the April-June period.
Data ranging from employment to retail sales and manufacturing weakened significantly in March, when the sequester began to take effect, and the Markit and Richmond Fed reports suggested the soft patch carried into the second quarter.
"This year is setting up to be very similar as far as the first-half story of the past few years, where an early start in economic activity was not able to be maintained," said Sam Bullard, a senior economist at Wells Fargo Securities in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Even so, the economy is not collapsing.
A separate report from the Commerce Department showed new home sales increased 1.5 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 417,000 units last month.
The increase was encouraging in the wake of data on Monday that showed home resales slipped in March and a report last week that said sentiment among homebuilders dropped in April for a third straight month.
"This is a good report that supports the view that at least one part of the economy is not being battered too greatly by Washington's attacks on growth," said Joel Naroff of Naroff Economic Advisors in Holland, Pennsylvania. "The housing recovery keeps on going, but don't expect further surges in activity."
The momentum in the housing market has slowed somewhat because of a lack of supply of homes for sale in some major regions. Last month, there 153,000 new homes on the market, not far from record lows.
The inventory represents sales supply for only 4.4 months, below the six months that is normally considered a healthy balance between supply and demand.
Another report, from the Federal Housing Finance Administration, showed prices for houses financed with mortgages that have been sold to or guaranteed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac rose 0.7 percent in February after advancing 0.6 percent in January.
Reporting by Lucia Mutikani in Washington; Additional reporing by Steven C Johnson in New York and Margaret Chadbourn in Washington; editing by Andrea Ricci and Leslie Adler


text:
AMSTERDAM - Crown Prince Willem-Alexander will be inaugurated Tuesday as the Netherlands' first king since 1890 as his mother, Queen Beatrix, abdicates after a 33-year reign.
Here is a list of Dutch monarchs since Willem I was installed as first king of in 1815 followed by the years of their reign.
—King Willem I. 1815-1840.
—King Willem II. 1840-1849.
—King Willem III. 1849-1890.
—Willem III's widow, Queen Emma, acted as regent from his death to 1898, when their daughter Wilhelmina turned 18 and acceded the throne.
—Queen Wilhelmina. 1898-1948.
—Queen Juliana. 1948-1980.
—Queen Beatrix. 1980-2013.


text:
Grand Final Preview
Weeks and months of preparation have all come down to this. Later on tonight, 26 countries from across Europe (and a bit of Asia) will descend on the Crystal Hall stage and perform to an expected audience of 125 million people. Of these 26, only one will end up the winner (of the contest, various successes for the other twenty-five possible), and Europe can finally try and hide the fact that they let 'Running Scared' win.
There is a certain irony though, that after one of the worst Eurovision winners, the Russian Grannies, or to be correct Buranovskiye Babushki, could easily sweep it up. I love everything about the performance, they are unbelievably sweet (especially the small one), and it's almost forgivable that they can't sing a dreadful song. Last year Portugal sent something which was set up very similar. However the fact they were protestors (or the Village People who had their wages slashed in the economic downturn) and not adorable, didn't catch the people's heart and finished second to last in their semi final. The Babuskhi's are different, and it's almost terrifying. I don't want them to win Eurovision, yes they are adorable and lovely and it's a fantastic, fun filled three minutes after a sleep-inducing opening, but it is after all a song contest, and I continue to live in hope the juries knock it down heavily.
There are so many good songs in this contest, and the focus from a UK perspective shouldn't just be on Russia, Ireland and ourselves. My own money is on Serbia, Željko Joksimović couldn't have asked for a better draw to add to his strong song. 24th, amongst the craziness of Jedward and Pasha Parfeny, and the livliness of Ukraine, it really stands out from the crowd. Add in the usual votes from those who love him in the Balkans, and this could be right up there come the final votes.
Granted it's not all straight forward, Nina Zilli has been a firm favourite of mine and others since it was first released. I've yet to see or hear of her put a foot wrong yet, and unlike others who have (cough Romania, Sweden, UK cough), that will put her in one of the prime positions for the live show. Likewise, I'm prepared to say, with Estonia, Spain and Iceland even, this could swing it into their balance. With Italy, and Iceland, there is no real reason why the televoters won't go for it, and Spain certainly belts it out in an emotional performance.
And then there is those who are running towards the end, Malta could easily sneak into the top 10 following Spain and Germany, Ireland, although a weaker entry than last year, have the energy, Ukraine are being very-Ukraine like and Moldova, whilst I love it, could struggle a lot.
Basically, it's impossible to call. There are a lot of songs that could win, I wouldn't mind winning, and are good enough to win. As long as it isn't Russia, I don't really care either.
Semi Final 2 Review
|Qualifiers: Lithuania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Serbia, Ukraine, Sweden, Macedonia, Norway, Estonia, Malta, Turkey
Azerbaijan are going for the whole 'light your fire' as the slogan for this years contest. Semi Final 1 lit that fire in style and substance, so much so it would give the Olympic torch a run for its money. Then came Semi Final 2 and that fire was damped so much it's lucky the spark is still there.
And it always shows that running order and diaspora will always help, in no other world would Bosnia & Herzegovina have been able to qualify. As dullness goes, it was right up there, and should never have qualified, but well, it did. And at the expense of some decent songs as well. Eva Boto for Slovenia was pretty spectacular, she didn't look like a 16 year old singing, more like a professional, but she failed to make it, and for that I will always blame Bosnia. Seemingly no matter what Bosnia send, they will qualify with ease anyway. Sigh.
And likewise with Lithuania, sure it's a lot better than the Bosnian entry, but I struggle to see that qualifying if that wasn't dead last. It's even quite enjoyable once he gets past the 'blindfold' part, which is a positive. Ukraine, like usual, probably qualified with ease, but unlike Bosnia, they have sent a song I'd have probably sent through as well. Especially in this semi final. It's upbeat, and while her singing is a bit annoying, it's a nice change to have.
The expected also qualified, and it was quite a risk announcing Turkey at the very end. The song is nowhere near up my street, I can't stand the singer or the lyrics, but being Turkey and certainly being very popular in this region will always help. Serbia, fronted by Mr. Slick himself, produced a charming, and slightly more relaxed opening than what we saw on Tuesday night. Sweden looked pretty impressive on the stage, but I have my doubts if it is the favourite everyone claims it to be. It will be a good challenger, and is clearly a unique song starting from a fantastic position. Norway looked slick on screen, even if I wasn't terribly impressed with his vocals.
I was though still delighted for Macedonia and Malta. Kaliopi sung her heart out and it really was a fantastic change from the slow ballads in the first half of the draw, I certainly enjoyed it and I was delighted to see it qualify. I've liked Kurt Calleja as a bit of a guilty pleasure from the start, his performance last night justified a top 10 finish without a doubt.
There are very few choices I disagree with from those who qualified, but considering it was just such a weak selection of choices, it still remains uninspiring.
Semi Final 2 Predictions
I got eight out of ten for the first semi final, so with any luck, I will be quite good at guessing at who is going to qualify. No, Georgia is not a typo.
|Nije Ljubav Stvar (Željko Joksimović)
|Stay (Tooji)
|Be My Guest (Gaitana)
|Euphoria (Loreen)
|Kuula (Ott Lepland)
|Verjamem (Eva Boto)
|Crno i belo (Kaliopi)
|Love Me Back (Can Bonomo)
|I'm a Joker (Anri Jokhadze)
|Vida minha (Filipa Sousa)
|You and Me (Joan Franka)
|We Are the Heroes (Litesound)
|Nebo (Nina Badric)
|This is the Night (Kurt Calleja)
|Don't Close Your Eyes (Max Jason Mai)
|Love Is Blind (Donny Montell)
|Bosnia & Herzegovina
|Korake ti znam (MayaSar)
|Love Unlimited (Sofi Marinova)
Semi Final 1 Review
|Qualifiers: Romania, Moldova, Iceland, Hungary, Denmark, Albania, Cyprus, Greece, Russia, Ireland
So we're underway for the 2012 Song Contest, with, lets be honest, a rather unsurprising ten progressing. Ultimately the first semi-final had such a strong selection of songs that any of the ten were likely to be quite good songs, and that is certainly the case with what was chosen at the end.
I am devastated with two songs failing to make it, for me, Israel's entry, Time, was brilliant, and one of my favourite ones of the whole contest. But it failed to make it and I'm kind of unsure why, the stage performance seemed highly competent, and arguably more people decided they didn't like it rather than they did. The stage show was completely bonkers, but in a rather brilliant way, this failing to qualify is the greatest injustice since InCulto in 2010. In another sense, I was both surprised by the performance of Switzerland as well, although I would have much rather watched it live in the arena rather than on television. It looked fantastic, and the Sinplus boys took to the stage magnificently and had huge interaction of the audience. Although it's in my personal top 10 from the night, you can see why it lost votes with the viewers at home, and even the juries. Little care was given to the camera, and vocally, they weren't singing 'Swim against the stream', which maintains to be my biggest gripe about the whole song.
I'm hardly surprised Albania qualified meanwhile, it was always borderline and no doubt the juries gave this the top marks. It certainly is not my cup of tea, and Rona Nishliu seemed rather insistent on trying to permanently damage my ear drums, but it's something the juries are going to go for, instead of say, San Marino (who, in a brief summary, we're even worse than I thought possible).
Cyprus is arguably the only one I'm disappointed that it qualified. I thought Ivi Adamou's vocals were especially poor, and were very lucky to qualify especially that a similar song of its like, Aphrodisiac by Eleftheria Eleftheriou, also qualified to the final. Eleftheria was far from perfect too, although she had combined the art of singing and dancing better than Ivi had, and I wouldn't be surprised if Greece were much higher up the order.
I'm amazed Romania qualified too, but not because I dislike the performance. It's clear Elena had technical difficulties with her earpiece (her rather frustrated pointing to it and subsequent throwing it away showing it), and the vocal performance was very out of place because of it. Everything else about it was spot on, and I think Mandinga are breathing a very loud sigh of relief that it wasn't as serious as I thought it was going to be. On a similar note, I'm glad the lead singers vocals for Hungary have improved since the last time I heard them live, they really helped carry the song and I did enjoy it for once.
I find there is little to add about Denmark and Iceland, both were performed well, but I do feel there is a growing complacency around the Danish camp, and I'm not enjoying it as much as I did when I first heard it back at the Melodi Grand Prix. Greta and Jonsi, for me, were easily the best performers of the night. Although, I would say that anyway.
As always, I fail to see the appeal of Jedward, but once again, they helped Ireland get into the final for the third year in a row (first time since 2004), probably getting wet helped them quite a bit. And Russia, I've never seen a crowd at Eurovision so enthusiastic and love a song as much as they loved the Russian grannies, they were adorable to watch, and they have the benefit that the audience in the arena loves them, the audience watching on television loves them. I'm now terrified though that they could win this whole thing.
The big winners, for me though, were Moldova, my word was that fun! And their running order (more of that later) is so good, I am very tempted to go for a very good finish from this song. It was fantastic!
And a brief thought on the rest, Austria really could have done with more woki-ing of the popo's, Finland could have been less boring, Latvia could have been less condescending and Montenegro, well, couldn't really have done anything else.
So apart from swapping Israel and Switzerland for Cyprus and Ireland, this top 10 is very similar to what I would've sent, and arguably, I have no complaints with that. No doubt that will all change when the Second Semi Final comes around.
Along with the semi final, the running order for the final was announced. The big winners from this were Ireland (23rd) and Moldova (26th), who will be especially helped if a couple of ballads come through and take their position. Ireland have shot from a potential non-qualifier to a top 10 prospect in the space of 2 hours.
On the other end of the scale, Hungary drew the 'position of death' (2nd), where no one has ever won before, followed by Albania (3rd), and with the show being opened by Engelbert Humperdinck, it's a rather low-tempo start for Eurovision yet again, and some decent news for the UK at least. Russia (6th) and Iceland (7th) have also struggled with a bad draw, but I suspect not many people are going to forget Russia that easily.
Cyprus (8th) start a set of strong female vocals, hampering France and Italy after, and Romania (14th) start after one of the breaks. Denmark (15th) and Greece (16th) have fairly average draws.
So that's Semi Final One down with, and 18 more songs will try and force themselves into the remaining ten places in the final. If you agree or disagree with anything, don't be afraid to share it in the comments.
Semi Final 1 Predictions
Here we are then, in just a few hours the 2012 Eurovision Song Contest in Baku kicks off with the first of two semi-finals, deciding the first ten songs that will head on into the final. The juries have sent their votes off after watching the second dress rehearsal last night and it's just time for the big two hour show to impress the voters from home.
The order of the first semi-final can be found on the right hand side of this page, and all these countries can vote in this one, along with hosts Azerbaijan, Italy and Spain. So, while I can't vote (I can't even watch it live) here are my predictions for the first semi-final (not who I want in the final it must be said, as much as I'd love to see San Marino make it…), in the order that we'll find out at the conclusion of the final. Belgium is not a typo, either.
|Never Forget (Greta Salome & Jonsi)
|Party for Everybody (Buranovskiye Babushki)
|Should've Known Better (Soluna Samay)
|Aphrodisiac (Eleftheria Eleftheriou)
|Zaleilah (Mandinga)
|Time (Izabo)
|Sound of Our Hearts (Compact Disco)
|Waterline (Jedward)
|Lautar (Pasha Parfeny)
|Would You? (Iris)
|Suus (Rona Nishliu)
|Unbreakable (Sinplus)
|La La Love (Ivi Adamou)
|Beautiful Song (Anmary)
|Woki mit deim Popo (Trackshittaz)
|Nar jag blundar (Pernilla Karlsson)
|Euro Neuro (Rambo Amadeus)
|San Marino
|The Social Network Song (Valentina Monetta)
Eurovision Sofa… Talks…
In a small change, I, along with the fantastic Noelinho who runs noelinho.org, have decided to have a little (it's actually quite long) chat about this years Eurovision Song Contest! We discuss last years Eurovision, and pretty much all 42 songs who are competing. I can't promise much in the way of slickness, but if you do fancy listening to our voices for an hour, then it's all on you (much of the credit should not go to me mind, it's all Noel's idea, recording and editing, I was just available). Still, enjoy…
Eurovision Sofa: The Songs – S to U
Valentina Monetta San Marino
The Social Network Song (Oh Oh – Uh – Oh Oh) 200/1
Hmm, there appears to be a lot of traffic ahead. Oh, I see why, there's a massive car crash with this song up ahead.
My Verdict: I do quite like her. Quite a bit.
Europe's Verdict: Why would anyone want to intentionally vote for this? Why? WHY?
Željko Joksimović Serbia
Nije Ljubav Stvar 14/1
No one seems to be talking about this, and I'm surprised. Serbia have the countries who can vote for it, and a song that's pretty good too. He came close to victory with Lane Moje back in 2004, and his song this year although of a similar quality, can equally challenge.
My Verdict: Not a personal favourite, but it is memorable.
Europe's Verdict: At least the second semi-final gets a good song opening it. Should qualify and be in the top 10 at worst.
Max Jason Mai Slovakia
Don't Close Your Eyes 125/1
In a year totally devoid of any decent rock songs, Slovakia have of course sent a rock song that is far from decent, it's painful. It doesn't appeal to the proper rock fans, and gets rather shouty for a good time too. Ahh, it could've promised a change from the ballad's, but it's not getting there.
My Verdict: No, no, or in tribute to this song, NO.
Europe's Verdict: I can't see anyone who will want to vote for this, or listen to this.
Eva Boto Slovenia
Verjamem 100/1
She's 16 and she can sing like that? I give up, just what hope for me is left? Sigh.
My Verdict: It's annoyingly good.
Europe's Verdict: I wouldn't be surprised if this got out of the semi-final, and is a lot better than the other 'Just old enough not to qualify for Junior Eurovision' song from Belgium, and quite charming in another context. Could easily do a Switzerland on the Saturday, but I'm sure Eva won't care about that.
Pastora Soler Spain
Quédate Conmigo (Stay With Me) 18/1
In a strong year for the big 5, it's hard to believe this song I find to be one of the weakest. It's not that bad, Pastora is one hell of a singer, I just find the song waning my interest half way through. But, for Spain certainly, this is easily their best song in at least a decade.
My Verdict: Why did Spain start taking this seriously?
Europe's Verdict: This could be a huge hit with the juries, but will fall short. Still going to be good for Spain. Which in fairness, is usually being higher than 16th.
Loreen Sweden
Euphoria 7/4
As fan favourites go, this is right at the top threatening to go into a league of its own. Yes, it's a song that is going to do well, and a song that is unique at this years contest, but it relies on a lot on the stage performance. Thankfully for Sweden, that part is unbelievably brilliant. Everything but together and this will go down incredibly well.
My Verdict: It isn't one of my own favourites, but I can see why everyone else loves it.
Europe's Verdict: Should be pushing for victory.
Sinplus Switzerland
Unbreakable 125/1
It took me quite a while to realise the chorus was 'Swim against the stream', rather than 'somethingsomethingsomething'. I want to like it, but it's too middle ground, and two Swiss people struggling to be clear in speaking English.
My Verdict: I can't even sing aloud to it… not that I would want to, of course.
Europe's Verdict: In such a strong semi-final, this could get left behind
Can Bonomo Turkey
Love Me Back 33/1
After mixed success in the rock genre the last few years, Turkey have returned to a more ethnic and 'Turkish' song. A lot about this is relatively charming, if not a bit annoying to listen to it after quite a few listens. It should be unfeasible to see Turkey fail to reach the final again.
My Verdict: If only I hadn't kept on listening to it! Though the two time listens it needs should be fine for everyone else.
Europe's Verdict: Practically has the Eastern Europe vote in the bag, could be mid-table on finals night.
Gaitana Ukraine
Be My Guest 40/1
Ukraine, being Ukraine, do well at Eurovision whatever they send, and that's not going to change this year or many years in the future. The saving grace is at least they do send good entries (or something to distract us from the fairly average ones, looking at you Mika Newton), and Gaitana is sending a catchy, fun and a high energy three minutes to Eurovision
My Verdict: Enjoyable and fun to listen to.
Europe's Verdict: They're practically guaranteed a top 10 finish already, this could keep pushing it up for a dangerous result.
Engelbert Humperdinck United Kingdom
Love Will Set You Free 20/1
Well, well, well. As ingenuity goes, the BBC may have surprised us all, no one expected Engelbert Humperdinck, no one expected anything to good from it either. But, for the second year in a row, the internal selection has come up good, yet fails to be brilliant. It's a song that can go anyway and everyway possible, but hey, at least I'm not embarrassed with it.
My Verdict: It's good, at least.
Europe's Verdict: Who knows? Won't win but a good performance should be on the cards.
Eurovision Sofa: The Songs – L to R
Anmary Latvia
Beautiful Song 125/1
Hey everyone, lets look at how totally brilliant it is Anmary is singing at Eurovision. She's even giving us her biography, born in 1980, same year as Johnny Logan was born (look at how she knows that!), and now she is singing a 'beautiful song' and everybody loves it. Hooray! Isn't she totally brilliant? I mean, she even knows Sir Mick Jagger, her contact book must be overflowing, she is simply so popular! Because everyone loves this, it surely must win, yay for Anmary!
My Verdict: If you couldn't tell, I was being a bit sarcastic.
Europe's Verdict: Please make it go away Europe, please.
Donny Montell Lithuania
Love is Blind 150/1
In football we have a game of two halves, and well, something similar is going on here. We start with a rather dull ballad, and about half way through it turns magically into a rather dull dance act. And he thinks he's clever that he uses a blindfold to represent how he find love to be blind. Oh the tedium.
My Verdict: Painful to listen to, for the whole three minutes.
Europe's Verdict: Even performing at the end of his semi-final, this will struggle for votes.
Kaliopi Macedonia
Crno I Belo 150/1
What's this, another uninspiring and fairly average ballad in the second semi-final? Thank you so very much Macedonia. And then, you get a bit rocky, and your song becomes a lot better. Shame you couldn't start with that, otherwise I'd be totally behind it.
My Verdict: It takes forever to get going, and is probably too late to make an impact.
Europe's Verdict: I can't decide, will probably miss out.
Kurt Calleja Malta
This is the Night 200/1
As guilty pleasures go, this is, not exactly the worst to admit to. I am aware it's poor live, quite clichéd, repetitive and so on, but I find it fun to listen to.
My Verdict: It's on my favourites list, and I don't care if no one else has it on theirs.
Europe's Verdict: Not as popular for everyone else as it is for me. But Malta is the first opportunity that the second semi-final gets to get energetic, and this could do well.
Pasha Parfeny Moldova
Lăutar 80/1
A personal grower for me, starting off largely indifferent, I've grown to actually find the song quite decent. Up-tempo and a very fun song, performed by someone who looks to be enjoying himself singing it.
My Verdict: Although it took its time getting there, I love it!
Europe's Verdict: Assuming people love this first time round rather than the fourth, I can see this proving to be a very popular song, with a very memorable performance.
Rambo Amadeus Montenegro
Euro Neuro 200/1
And the award for 'We're not taking this seriously' goes to Montenegro, congratulations for sending, whatever this is. They say it's a song, but I'm not convinced. It opens the show on Tuesday night, and will be quite the introduction, but you just can't see this doing anything. Especially since you can't have live animals/naked women on stage with you.
My Verdict: Yeah, it does my head in.
Europe's Verdict: It's hard to guess the impact it will have, I doubt the juries will be thrilled with it. I suspect something similar with the public vote.
Joan Franka Netherlands
You and Me 66/1
The Dutch usually suck and they don't care, and for once they don't (relatively suck). As long as she doesn't stick to that ridiculous Native American theme, which I find to be quite a bizarre costume choice based on the song. It's a decent folk entry, but nothing more.
My Verdict: I find myself not caring much for it, but for the semi-final it's in, it's an OK entry.
Europe's Verdict: Sorry Dutch folks, I can see you missing out once again.
Tooji Norway
Stay 25/1
I couldn't care less for this song, really is not for me and while the music style isn't the same as Eric Saade, the performance and everything else is. Saying that, if it worked for Saade it could work well for Tooji, and the teenage fan girls will no doubt be jamming whatever phone line Norway get, potentially more so than Jedward. Despite my hatred of this song, this could worryingly do very well.
My Verdict: Not my cup of tea, and well, in a different postcode to my cup of tea.
Europe's Verdict: Will be huge, could surprise itself into getting a great finish.
Filipa Sousa Portugal
Vida Minha 200/1
While I give credit for it sticking to its Portuguese routes, my God do I get bored a third of the way through the song. I could make the cup of tea I wanted from Tooji, and get back in time to see this finish, I find it that boring that quickly.
My Verdict: Dull, so very dull.
Europe's Verdict: They may see it the same way as me, and with no friends to help them along the way, this could potentially finish last in their semi-final.
Mandinga Romania
Zaleilah 16/1
Fun, upbeat and… bagpipes. I really do enjoy listening to Zaleilah, and so do most of Romania, reaching number 2 in their charts all the way back in September and appearing on several high profile shows (aside from, say, the Graham Norton Show). A really enjoyable song and should spark off interest across Europe.
My Verdict: So fun to listen to, and potentially dance to.
Europe's Verdict: Will do well, will be a good top 10 bet.
Buranovskiye Babushki Russia
Party for Everybody 9/1
There's only one humanly possible reaction to this song, awwwwwwwww. The Babushki Grandma's, singing part in their native Udmurt and part in English. The song is dreadful, they can't sing and are horrible out of tune with each other… but still… they're all so adorable, especially the small one. I just want to give her a hug.
My Verdict: It's just so adorable. I could watch them sing it, but not listen to them sing it.
Europe's Verdict: Will walk the televotes, and will be high up, but the jury vote might just knock it back from winning.
Eurovision Sofa: The Songs – E to I
Ott Lepland Estonia
Kuula 66/1
Estonia have sent a very strong, and vocally brilliant, song to Eurovision, but it's hard to see it make much of a large impact when it comes to the big moment. In a year full of ballads, the only real thing that stands out is it isn't in English, and that it's rather better than most of them.
My Verdict: It's not a bad song, but another ballad loses my enthusiasm for it.
Europe's Verdict: Another 'touch and go' qualifier, though I reckon it will make it.
Pernilla Finland
När Jag Blundar 125/1
Could someone wake me up when this is over. While I appreciate it's efforts to be sung in Swedish, it's just so tedious and never ending. And when you see the likes of Israel, San Marino, Cyprus, Denmark and Russia follow this, I can't help but see this get lost in the first semi final. And it's one of the few bad songs in the first semi final.
My Verdict: Dull, tedious, dire, sleep-inducing. It's a no from me.
Europe's Verdict: Will easily struggle, especially with such a strong second half following her.
Anggun France
Echo (You and I) 100/1
France tried to go big, and they kind of did, going with Anggun who is (or was) massive around Europe. However, it sounds like it could appear in a Mario Kart game, a 80's disco and a GCSE French revision pack all at the same time, and that combination isn't fantastic. And her vocals, well, I don't think she was too chuffed to hear that she couldn't mime at Eurovision.
My Verdict: France will get it right one year, simply not this year.
Europe's Verdict: Won't inspire anyone and will be in a battle with Spain for lowest of the top 5.
Anri Jokhadze Georgia
I'm a Joker 200/1
As one of the two real 'insane' entries to this years Eurovision, I could certainly live with listening to this than whatever the hell Montenegro sent. But it really isn't all that good to attract the televoters, his voice is surprisingly good and probably wasted on this song. However, put up a good show, which it no doubt will, could pull of a shock result.
My Verdict: While more enjoyable to listen to than Montenegro, I couldn't put up with it very often.
Europe's Verdict: Many expect it to make no impact, although a strong stage presence and I think this could sneak into 10th.
Roman Lob Germany
Standing Still 22/1
Germany have turned over a new leaf, and now can't seem to stop sending very good songs. And, well, Jamie Cullum co-wrote it! How can you not love it? Roman Lob is clearly a talented singer, sought out in the same way as Lena, and the song itself is just fantastic. Well done Germany, good going.
My Verdict: Love it. Really couldn't have picked a better song to suit me, at least.
Europe's Verdict: Could easily get top 5, but I have my doubts on a push for victory.
Eleftheria Eleftheriou Greece
Aphrodisiac 33/1
Well who'd have thought it, Greece have went out and done a Greece. Here, ladies and gentlemen, is your standard, typical pop number which is nothing new nor special. But, it works well for Greece so they might as well keep pumping them out, and it will no doubt work again in 2012. Assisted, no doubt, with very little clothing on the part of Eleftheria. Well times are tough in Greece, aren't they.
My Verdict: I'm largely indifferent to this one, could stand three minutes of it, at least.
Europe's Verdict: Being Greece, it'll do well, but might only just edge into the top 10.
Compact Disco Hungary
Sound of Our Hearts 100/1
I was highly sceptical of the live performance, the vocals seemed weak, and things just didn't seem to click for Compact Disco. But since then I've grown to really like the song, granted the studio version. With any luck the vocals will have improved by the time we get to Baku, otherwise the quality of the national final will see it end in disaster.
My Verdict: The song is enjoyable enough, the live performance will have to step it up a gear to be good though.
Europe's Verdict: On the borderline to qualify, I keep going back to the vocals of the lead singer, but it's going to be the difference.
Greta Salóme & Jónsi Iceland
Never Forget 18/1
Wow. As things go, this is pretty much the best. I'd normally contest the move from Icelandic to English, but, it's still powerful, still stunning. It's magnificent.
My Verdict: Best song at Eurovision this year.
Europe's Verdict: They did get a rough draw in the semi-final, but it shouldn't be an issue. The song is good enough to challenge for the victory. I reckon Iceland must look lovely in May.
Jedward Ireland
Waterline 20/1
I was scared when Jedward announced their intention to compete again. We all knew they'd walk the Irish finals (which they did), and I feared that it would be second time lucky for the really annoying duo. But, Waterline, is thankfully a song so unsuited to Jedward it's great for the rest of us. It lacks the ability for them to jump up and down, and is rather muted for a Jedward song. While they may have more support from the central European teenage girls, I doubt it will be anywhere near enough to compete with the top half.
My Verdict: A poor song performed by the wrong people, what's to like?
Europe's Verdict: Should qualify from a strong starting position, will be lucky if it gets any serious points aside from the UK.
Izabo Israel
Time 150/1
I can't believe this is so far out, I absolutely love this song. It's quirky, with a unique sound that really stands out amongst the field. I really want to see this one do well, and I live in hope that it will.
My Verdict: Fantastic song, I can listen to it all day.
Europe's Verdict: Sadly, most others seem less keen than I. But, what do they know? (A lot, is the answer). It's 'on the bubble' to qualify, but could do surprisingly well. With luck.
Nina Zilli Italy
L'Amore È Femmina (Out of Love) 9/1
No one saw Italy finishing second last year, this year, Italy could well be disappointed to only finish second. They won't bother with the rubbish pop that's flung out by Cyprus and Greece, but they bring a classy, well sung and frankly brilliant song to the table. It's a shame she drifts from Italian to English, especially as the all-Italian version is pretty much perfect.
My Verdict: Comes a close second to Iceland for me in terms of brilliance. If only it was all-Italian.
Europe's Verdict: Pretty much a certain top 5, and will be looking for the win.
Eurovision Sofa: The Songs – A to D
Well, here we go then. A full and slightly comprehensive review of all 42 songs in this years Eurovision Song Contest split into four parts which will be posted inside the next four days. So, instead of the usual waffling, lets dive straight into it.
Rona Nishliu Albania
Suus 150/1
My ears, my poor, poor ears. I'm sure there's a good song in there between the unbelievably annoying screeches and screams of Rona Nishliu, but those really turn me off a song I don't care for much in any case. By far and away one of the songs I dislike the most, and it's a shame because she is clearly a talented singer who is inflicting pain on my ear drums.
My Verdict: Run my friends, run far away.
Europe's Verdict: Could do well with the juries, the fact it's in Latin and is, well, quite annoying, could detract audience votes.
Trackshittaz Austria
Woki mit deim Popo 150/1
Oh the opportunities Austria have offered us this year, Trackshittaz certainly live up to their name. The name of their song literally translates to 'shake your bum', and you'd never guess what the main focus of attention was when they performed it in their national final. The rapping is worse than Daz Sampson and the only thing anyone's going to like about this is their amusing name. And potential shaking of body parts.
My Verdict: Dreadful.
Europe's Verdict: Will fail miserably, and thank God for that too.
Sabina Babayeva Azerbaijan
When the Music Dies 25/1
Like all good host nations, Azerbaijan have sent something so average that they just know won't win Eurovision for the second time in a row. It's quite bland, and by quite, I mean very, certainly isn't knocking anything out of the park or striding for the win. In fact, the only way it'll get close is the support of the home nation.
My Verdict: Not very good and easily the worst of the automatic qualifiers.
Europe's Verdict: Will be on the right hand side of the scoreboard very easily.
Litesound Belarus
We Are the Heroes 66/1
It's a bold claim to sing 'we are the winners'. When LT United performed it in the more literal sense, they came fairly close. In terms of this context, Litesound are more sure that they have sorted everything out and passed the tough challenge. I quite like it, it's good enough and in a turgid semi-final, really does stick out like a sore thumb. Especially if it sticks with it's slightly over the top sci-fi theme.
My Verdict: It's not spectacular or special, but this is still my third favourite song in the second semi-final.
Europe's Verdict: Has every chance of qualifying, but will become anonymous when mixed with the big guns.
Iris Belgium
Would You? 200/1
Iris is 17. Slovenia's entry Eva Boto is 16. Both are younger than me. What am I doing with my life? Well, I can tell you I'm not sending a decent, if not unspectacular song to Eurovision. And I won't be expected to have just returned from appearing from a rather emotional, and dreadful, episode of Hannah Montana, in which she is about to propose to the guy of her dreams (who has been there for about 20 minutes). And I think she's taller than me too, damn her.
My Verdict: Iris is arguably more talented, younger and taller than me, so, I can't stand her.
Europe's Verdict: Mediocre at best and will struggle to get out of its semi-final.
Maya Sar Bosnia & Herzegovina
Korake Ti Znam 80/1
I presume you all remember the ridiculous piano player behind Dino Merlin last year? Well guess what, she is back! And this time, she can't pretend to sing, mainly because she's just singing an OK song. Just, OK. Nothing even special, just, OK.
My Verdict: So, so average I really don't care much for it.
Europe's Verdict: Could do fairly well in the semi-final, dependant on the neighbours voting in it. Then a poor showing in the final.
Sofi Marinova Bulgaria
Love Unlimited 200/1
If Bulgaria couldn't qualify with a good song last year, God knows how they will qualify with this. While it seems to be an attempt at be a pain in singing in as many languages possible, it fails to work and ends up in, surprise, surprise, another bland, unimaginative song.
My Verdict: I don't want to be enforced to listen to this on a regular basis.
Europe's Verdict: Will get nowhere, and fast.
Nina Badrić Croatia
Nebo 150/1
While, like Bosnia, it should do well because of their neighbours in the second semi-final, there is nothing amazing that stands about this. The song feels longer than three minutes and just goes on, and on, plodding along like a limping horse. There are few redeeming features, Nina Badrić is decent enough, but the song is horrendously bland.
My Verdict: So dull. Croatia can't get anything right can they?
Europe's Verdict: As I've said, the Balkan-heavy semi-final should assist them, aside from that though, they're going to struggle everywhere else.
Ivi Adamou Cyprus
La La Love 33/1
I hated this song to start off with, a seemingly never ending stream of 'la's', with an occasional 'love' thrown in when you least expect it. I still can barely stand it, but I do note there is a great chance for it to be stuck in everybody's heads for a bit, like it has mine. Curse my stupid head.
My Verdict: I don't like it, even if I can't stop thinking about it.
Europe's Verdict: Could be popular, it is catchy, bouncy, and very pop-y. Will qualify from the semi-final and will be mid-table come finals night.
Soluna Samay Denmark
Should've Known Better 18/1
I love Yohanna, quite literally. But with her absence in recent times I find myself drifting towards Soluna Samay, the Guatamalese-turned-Dane who is one hell of a good singer. Her song is just lovely and positive, and should do well even in such a strong semi-final.
My Verdict: I do quite like her. Quite a bit. One of my personal favourites as well, and would love to see her do very well.
Europe's Verdict: Should go far, but might be just short to challenge for the win.
All odds are correct as of Sunday 13th May and all images are courtesy of the European Broadcasting Union.
If you agree, or more likely disagree, please do share in the comments.


text:
1. General overview of VCE exam player:
What is an exam simulator/player?
VCE exam simulator is a testing engine particularly developed for IT certification exam practice, wherein it enables you to create, modify, and simulate actual exam environment. As it can assist preferably make a few IT certification exams, nowadays VCE exam simulator has emerged as the most superlative exam simulation software for individuals striving to pass certification exams successfully.
For what is it used?
Due to its extreme level of credibility, VCE exam simulator has been acknowledged by several regions across the world. The primary use of this interactive VCE software is to help candidates in preparing and practicing for their IT certification exams.
What functions does it offer?
- Realistic certification exam simulation
- Exam editor/modifier with preview feature
- Different types of questions
- Complete exam in a single file
- Customized exam taking mode
Question Types:
VCE simulator/software supports:
- MCQs
- Drag-n-Drop and Select-n-Place Questions
- Hot Area Questions
- Point & Shoot Questions
- Form a tree of questions
- Create reorder & list
- Connect & Drop Questions
Why is it necessary for exam preparation?
VCE simulator enables candidates to open VCE files and be prepared efficiently and as on the exam but using .VCE files. Practically any preparation material can easily be transformed into an interactive and user-friendly VCE file, with the proviso that, there are questions answers to practice. Consequently, any practicing stuff can become an easy-to-share and interactive exam, which can easily be opened and modified with VCE simulator. Owing to these superlative features, this VCE simulator had become essential to practice for real certification exam.
2. VCE exam dumps
What are IT exam dumps, why they are useful for IT certification exam preparation?
Exam practice materials saved under VCE file format are recurrently referred to as VCE exam dumps. They often involve actual exam questions and answers, thus you can get an accurate idea of what to anticipate from the forthcoming certification exam. VCE certification exams and VCE dumps are dynamically shared online, contributing towards stable growth of admiration of VCE testing engine and VCE technology. With a number of online resources for VCE exam download, individuals can get braindumps for just about any IT certification exam.
The ultimate cause why VCE dumps are so admired is the fact that they deliver candidates with a friendly and interactive experience they will ultimately get in testing center. Under such a way, exam practice gets much more convenient. Furthermore, for those aspirants who have difficulty in memorizing stuffs through reading, an interactive VCE testing engine is another choice to grasp things, thus it might be helpful in any area, and not only IT certification exams.
What are VCE files?
VCE (Virtual Certification Exam) is a file format that actively simulates IT exam environment, enabling for the most suitable IT exam preparation you can easily get within the comfort of your own home. If you have ever seen exam simulations, possibilities are, they were in VCE file format.
Benefits of using VCE exam files
- VCE files can be easily opened and played on VCE simulator
- Provide an interactive testing environment
- Identical to computer-based exams, comprising off IT certification exams
- VCE files are built in VCE Designer
- Provide candidates with the ease of an interactive test, supporting them to prepare for any computer-based exam
- VCE files backing images, which can be embedded into exam questions and answers. Can be created in several languages including those with special characters such as Asian or Cyrillic languages
3. Necessity of IT certifications, Preparation for them
Top IT certifications
Top IT certifications of 2018 are mentioned below:
- Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
- Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
- CompTIA A+ Technician
- CompTIA Network+
Advantages of being IT certified
- IT Certification brings with improved job opportunities, IT industry recognition, as well as improved salary.
- Candidates who plan to self-study for a specific IT certification can do so. They don't need to go to colleges or universities to get trained. Online training that leads towards IT certification is 100 times cheaper and of a shorter time duration in comparison with similar degree programs.
- IT certifications enable a candidate to solely concentrate on a particular topic of interest without having to take non-mandatory courses. Individuals who have some expertise in the field and like to teach generally teach instructor sessions. A number of IT course instructors are not individuals who made an active dealing with abstract. They are folks who have already done this job in the field, and wish to share how to do the similar job.
- IT certification practice is skills and job-oriented.
- IT training certification industry is open to individuals of all backgrounds and ages.
Ways to pass IT certification exams, preparation methods, studying materials
- Helpful study materials used to prepare for IT certification exam comprising off websites, tutorials, labs, videos, simulations etc. have you utilized? Be as precise as possible.
- Attending or watching video on demand of any certification training webinars.
- Taking instructor-led training.
4. Why exam takers should choose VCE exam player/software for exam preparation?
Candidates always prefer to go for the ultimate choice of using VCE exam player just because:
- It supports VCE Exam software/simulator file format
- Restores and saves testing sessions
- Involve those test questions that were answered wrongly one or many times
- Store exam result history
- Comprehensive reporting on test results
To sum up, if you want to pass your exam successfully and have an understating of what you'll face on the exam, get VCE simulator and practice as much time as you can.