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One of the activities we could do at camp was a ropes course. I'm not sure why they call it a ropes course, because if you've ever done one you know you are walking on wires. When mister "T" did it with his group we went and took pictures.
I thought he'd be a little scared. I was scared for him, but he didn't hesitate one bit and was like a little squirrel scampering right up and across it like nothing.
A couple days later the "husbird" and I decided to try it despite a little trepidation on my part and the fact that I was still recovering from an awful cold.
Since I workout on a regular basis, lifting weights, I thought it wouldn't be too hard. Wrong.
The hardest part was the beginning where you have to climb up a swinging wooden pole and then wall to get to the top of the course. Even though I had all the harness gear on I still felt like if I didn't get to the next foot hold I would fall to my sudden death.
About halfway up one of my legs would not stop shaking. I kept telling myself "You're alright. You're alright." Some how that wasn't computing to my body, possibly maybe because I was taking my life in my hands. Thankfully after my leg quit shaking I made it to the top. I looked at the wires I was about to cross and thought, "I'm going to cross that? And get around those trees? What am I doing?" My first couple of steps were really scary, until I got a feel for the way the wire would sway. Repelling down was the fun part.
I made it down alive and the whole experience made me think about how this course is so much like real life. Starting something new is always hard in the beginning, but as you get used to it it becomes easier and can even be fun when you let go and try to enjoy the journey. At the end of the course I felt stronger and happier because I accomplished something hard.
Saturday, August 18, 2012
Empowered by a Ropes Course
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2006 Sanford & Benedict Chardonnay
The 130-acre Sanford & Benedict Vineyard was planted in 1971, in what is now called the Santa Rita Hills, one of the most exciting Pinot Noir and Chardonnay growing areas in the country. It has, for over three decades, been considered one of the crown jewels of Santa Barbara County. The shaley-clay loam soil adds character to all the wines from this vineyard.
This is a full-bodied Chardonnay with rich pear, pineapple, melon and fig characteristics. In some vintages, hints of apricot and nectarine also add to delicious layers of rich fruit and racy acidity that fan out on the finish. These older vines make a concentrated Chardonnay complemented by spicy hazelnut, earthy flavors and racy acidity that come from the shaley-loam soils.
Pale straw color. Initial aromas of cinnamon, apricot, and fig jump out of the glass. Upon further aeration, hints of guava, mango, and other tropical fruits become apparent and continue onto the flavor profile of this seamlessly balance Chardonnay. Lush acidity, good structure, and a lingering finish make this a candidate for extended aging potential. Drink now through 2017. -
-Bill Brosseau, Director of Winemaking

subset: commoncrawl


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Okay, Not Literally a Face-lift but I Needed a Change
With my wedding quickly approaching I wanted to get my new website/blog/portfolio up and running before things get too hairy. I am very fond of my old site and identity (pictured) but there were two deciding factors to designing new ones. The first should be the most obvious, my name change. The second was the vast development and my roll-change in the 21 family. Because the web development devision of Sync21 had grown into design, development, and SEO Greg and I spent countless hours devising our next move.
At first I was reluctant to break-away under a new name because I felt if we did we really needed to own it and push the brand hard. Out of our many talks we came up with Cranium21. The thought process behind Cranium21 was "Whole-Brained Design Resolution". Greg has a strong engineering background but really relates to creative esthetics. I am very creative but in mathematical and engineered mannerisms. With both our expertise working hand in hand we feel as though we work using our brains as a whole.
You can check out the old site here but I really hope you enjoy the Responsive new one.
Posted by Andrea on 11.28.12


text: Actress Lisa Rinna and her husband Harry Hamlin were on hand for the Los Angeles movie premiere of Clash of the Titans. Harry came over to sign autographs for the fans and pose for some fast photos but his wife Lisa Rinna looked super sexy in a blue dress! What you guys think Lisa Rinna HOT???


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Tablet Hoodie
Protective tablet cover
To follow the success of the Hoodie, the tablet hoodie now protects your tablet from light bumps and dirt. This is unlike any other cover in that its made of soft cloth and can be used to rest your tablet on while your are using it somewhere a little grubby, protecting it from table dirt and spills. Its also looks great and complements many of the screen covers that are out there. A must have favourite....
- Protects tablet from bumps, scratches and dirt
- Lightweight
- Choice of colours
- Packaged in a clamshell with card insert
- Fits ipads and other similar sized tablets
- Dimensions: 29.5cm x 19.5cm x 5.5cm
Product Code: Tablet Hoodie
Interested in distributing Tablet Hoodie?
Enter the quantity you require into the box below and click Add to Enquiry.
Units Required:
You cannot order less than 1056 units of this product


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Economic Cooperation Organization
General information. Economic Cooperation Organization was created in 1985, in order to strengthen economic,technical and cultural partnership among Turkey, Iran and Pakistan. In 1992, 7 more countries joined the organization.
Member states. Azerbaijan, Afghanistan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan.
Objective. The main objectives of the organization are stimulating economy, enhancing sustainable development of the member states, liberalizing of trade and promoting internal regional trade, integratinon of economies of the member states to the world economy, improving transportation and communication system, liberalizing of economy, efficience use of material resources of ECO region.
Partnership with Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan is taking active part in terms of liberalization of economy in ECO. In order to improve economic partnership among member states and to increase internal regional trade relations, Azerbaijan signed 10 different agreements, including Framework Agreement on ECO Trade Cooperation, Transit Transport Framework Agreement, Agreement on Promotion and Protection of Investment.
Currently, Halil Ibrahim Akcha is holding the position of Secretary General in ECO.
21th meeting of the Council of Ministers of ECO was held in Tehran, Iran Islamic Republic, on November 26, in 2013. During the meeting, it was decided to create ECO Research Center in Baku and Regulations of the Center was approved. Currently, internal procedures on functioning of the Research Center are proceeding.
2nd Baku Forum of ECO Member States Economic Think-Tanks and 2nd International Conference on "Energy, Regional Integration and Socio-economic development" were held on October 1st, 2014.
On November 26-27, 2015 delegation of ECO lead by the Secretary General - Halil Ibrahim Akcha had a visit to Baku.
On March 1st 2017, 13th ECO Summit was held in Islamabad, Pakistan. Minister of Economy Shahin Mustafayev attended the event as a member of the Azerbaijani delegation lead by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev.
On December 17-20, 2018 the 29th meeting of Economic Cooperation Organisation Regional Planning Council was held in Islamabad, Pakistan. The representatives from the Ministry of Economy of Azerbaijan attended the event as the members of the Azerbaijani delegation.
ECOBANK. ECO Trade and Development Bank started functioning in 2008. The main goal of the organization is to extend the internal regional trade among member states, and to provide financial aid in order to enhance economic development. The main project priorities of the Bank include the fields of infrastructure, production, transportation, telecommunication and energy. Charter of the bank was signed by Azerbaijan on September 28, in 2012 and was ratified by the Parliament on February 13, in 2013.


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Robert Maximilian Campbell (ロバート・マクシミリアン)Age: 25
Blood type: A
Height: 186cm
Robert is Will's loyal servant. He comes from a noble family that always served the royal family, so he has his own villa and servants to return to when Will has gone home to the Palace.
Will's sister seems to be attracted to him.
Voice ActorsNo voice actors have been added to this character. Help improve our database by searching for a voice actor, and adding this character to their roles here.


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Due to technical issue, we are currently experiencing difficulties with our phone line, if you wish to speak an operator.
Please call us : 0208 088 1000 or mail us on firstname.lastname@example.com or chat with us, we apologise for any inconvenience caused.
O'Callaghan Eliott Guest bedrooms
All rooms are equipped with contemporary furniture and decorated in bright colours reflecting the Mediterranean weather. Many of the guestrooms enjoy magnificent views across the Strait of Gibraltar and beyond to the not so far landscape of North Africa.
Rooms come with either king or twin beds configuration and have a Juliette balcony.
- Individually controlled air-conditioning
- Tea/coffee making facilities
- Cable television & in-house movies
- Trouser press
- Hairdryer
- Direct dial telephones
- Wireless & wired Broadband
- Personal safe
- Juliette balcony
- UK plug sockets
- Spacious desk


text: Excite, McKinley set for acquisition Published on August 08, 1996. Excite and The McKinley Group, creator of the Magellan Online Guide, Wednesay signed a definitive agreement for Excite to acquire McKinley; the deal was first announced in June. Separately, Excite hired Betsy Richter, formerly managing editor at News Corp./MCI's I-Guide, and a top editor at the Village Voice, to manage the integration of the two teams. Excite CEO George Bell said he expects there to be some "job consolidation" among the marketing and advertising units, to provide for economies of scale across the company. Specifics on future layoffs are undisclosed. Copyright August 1996 Crain Communications Inc. Most Popular In this article: News


text: Croatia is an enchanting land of dramatic contrasts and a fascinating history shaped by Roman, Venetian, Italian and Austro-Hungarian rule. Stretching from the spectacular Istrian Peninsula in the north, the magnificent 1,700-kilometre coastline – especially the Dalmatian Coast and vast Kvarner Gulf – is perhaps the biggest draw, washed by cobalt-blue seas rich in marine life and peppered with hundreds of islands, ranging from tiny uninhabited islets to larger islands with medieval harbour towns. These are beguiling landscapes, perfect for leisurely discovery on foot, on two wheels or by car.


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We are currently in position 17 00S 005 17W and saillng at 5.5 knots on a course of 000M. The wind is SE at 12-14 knots with a 1m sea and 1m SW swell. We are sailing under single-reefed main and single-furled yankee. Scattered small cumulus clouds. Our day's run was 139nm and we have 70nm to go. Less than a Bunbury!
Just another South Atlantic sunset
Yesterday afternoon we had a great sail in sunny conditions. Champagne sailing which persisted until the small hours of the morning when a cloud bank moved over. The half moon cast spectacular light on the water.
This morning we gybed and are now heading directly for St Helena. We have the reef in to slow the boat since (as usual) our ETA was 0300 in the morning. We plan to arrive at first light tomorrow.
Since we expect to arrive in St Helena tomorrow morning I have handed over HF net control to another yacht which is a few days behind us. The job has been handed on in this way for several weeks now, and should continue for some time yet. No doubt there will be a separate net running for those heading for Ascension and the Caribbean.
We're really enjoying this passage. On the whole it has been peaceful and relaxing, despite the often rolly conditions. We knew it would be a downwind passage and planned to gybe to and fro - and we certainly did. As a result this may be our longest passage (by the log and by ground miles covered) ever. It will certainly be the longest duration, exceeding our Cocos-Keeling to Rodrigues passage by a day or so.


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Travel Blog: Air Travel
Chaos in Airworld? The 1981 PATCO Strike
by Eva Holland | 05.07.13 | 8:00 AM ET
In the wake of last week's sequester-driven air travel delays, Jalopnik looks back at a short-lived 1981 strike by the Professional Air Traffic Controllers Organization, better known as PATCO. It's a fascinating case study. Here's writer Michael Ballaban:
As soon as the strike began, airlines reported losing $30 million a day. PATCO predicted insanity, with planes crashing into each other, hundreds, perhaps thousands (millions? billions?) of flights cancelled, and women and children crying and men gnashing their teeth.
The FAA began immediately to implement its contingency plan, which included asking airlines to voluntarily delay or cancel some flights, asking pilots to be a bit more vigilant, and calling in perhaps the best air traffic controllers in the world, the United States Air Force.
And after all that… nothing. Planes kept flying. Nobody crashed. Nobody died. Everybody still got to where they needed to go.
It spelled the end for PATCO.
A Call to End Reclining Seats on Planes
by Eva Holland | 02.20.13 | 1:30 PM ET
Like many of us, Slate's Dan Kois hates it when the person in front of him on a plane reclines their seat all the way—making it nearly impossible for him to watch his seatback TV, use his tray table, or even get in and out of his chair very easily. But instead of calling for passengers to use some restraint and common sense (I'm a never-recline-more-than-halfway gal, myself), he goes further: He demands an end to reclining seats entirely. Here's Kois:
The problem isn't with passengers, though the evidence demonstrates that many passengers are little better than sociopaths acting only for their own good. The problem is with the plane. In a closed system in which just one recliner out of 200 passengers can ruin it for dozens of people, it is too much to expect that everyone will act in the interest of the common good. People recline their seats because their seats recline. But why on earth do seats recline? Wouldn't it be better for everyone if seats simply didn't?
I'm convinced. What do you think? (Via @legalnomads)
Video You Must See: The Airplane Boneyard
by Eva Holland | 01.31.13 | 9:39 AM ET
This gorgeous timelapse of the planes in Arizona's massive U.S Air Force 'Boneyard' also includes short, moving interviews with a handful of retired pilots. Wreckage never looked so good.
(Via The Atlantic)
Colin Firth on the Rewards of International Travel
by Eva Holland | 07.02.08 | 9:01 AM ET
Look out, Ewan McGregor. There could be a new travel-writing British actor on the scene. In this item for the Times Online, Colin Firth reflects eloquently on his past travels—from Ethiopia and Italy to a childhood road trip in the Southern U.S.—and notes that while he's concerned about the environmental impact of flying, he can't see giving up plane travel entirely: "It's all too richly rewarding, isn't it?"
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Normally when we ask for Photoshop help online, it doesn't end up pretty well as internet trolls flooded the web. However, the artistic playfulness of these people has their own limits. In fact, they can also respond and give you the most solemn digital altering that you'll ever see. And this is what a grieving father was thankful for.
Nathen Steffel, from Ohio, is grieving after his newborn daughter passed away after a long battle in the children's hospital .But he had one request that he made on Reddit, he asks them to Photoshop and free her daughter from the machine surrounding her.
He wrote: "My daughter recently passed away after a long battle in the children's hospital. Since she was in the hospital her whole life, we never were able to get a photo without all her tubes. Can someone remove the tubes from this photo?"
Nathen's request was fulfilled with an overflowing response while others submitted their beautiful digitally altered photos.
This one is lovingly retouched photo of baby Sophia.
Some also send sketches of the baby.
Nathen was overwhelmed with these gifts from Reddit people. He told Today, "I didn't really want all the publicity, I just wanted a picture," He also wrote in an email. "What I received was a whole lot of love and support from complete strangers."
Sophia was born on May 30, 2014, and had only a brief life of six weeks. She succumbs due to complications from a hepatic hemangioma, a liver tumor.
Nathen and his wife knew that their baby had a problem after the first ultrasound but they didn't know how seriously ill their daughter was.
Sophia spent part of her life at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus after being born before being transferred to Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center which had more liver surgeons and expert to take care of her.
Sadly, she was on a waiting list for a liver when Sophia passed away last July 10, 2014. Nathan's story moved and touched many Reddit users and tried to help the heartbroken dad.
"I couldn't sleep without at least trying," one wrote. "Wow, I'm going hug my newborn now," another added.
And the most heart-melting moment is when Nathen showed some of the retouched photos to his wife, she can't help but burst into tears.
He told Today Parent: "I was overwhelmed with the response I got. My wife and I were so grateful so many people took the time out of their own lives to either send a nice message of sympathy or an awesome drawing. They couldn't have made this father any happier."


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News Now is CHRY's collective community news program, live every Monday – Friday at 5-6pm.
VISION: We strive to be a media source that is not merely popular, but necessary. We envision and practice media that is representative of marginalized peoples and perspectives and accountable to our listeners. We use radio as a tool to educate and engage in an ongoing struggle for social and environmental justice.
MISSION: As an alternative news outlet, News Now works as a team to collectively share skills and tasks among ourselves. We are also committed to challenging ourselves and analyzing our stories individually and at our weekly story meetings.
We approach stories using our 3D Content Framework:
Dig Deep – uncovering the greater issues and meaning behind a story
Define Solutions – focusing on action-based solutions
Design with Sound – creatively engaging listeners with the magic of audio
MANDATE:The CHRY News & Spoken Word Department is here to foster a strong community-led movement for more critical, accountable and representative media. Our goal is to prioritize and promote the voices/sounds of local events and groups who challenge and carefully examine the intersecting forms of oppression among our communities and dominant structures of society.
CHRY is a community-based campus station at York University in Toronto. Our mandate is to provide alternative programming, such as music not generally heard on commercial stations. We also provide in-depth spoken word programming and programming targeted to specific groups within the community. Although students play an important role in programming, we also provide access to members of the community at large. CHRY also provides training in radio production to volunteers. CHRY 105.5 FM is an anti-racist, anti-sexist, and anti-homophobic organization.


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Well there was certainly a lull but now its just xmas, I dont think people have time to sit around all day during the holiday period. Simple fact is if you dont post your tunes no one will ever listen. Rather than moan about it deal with it, if a tune drops down the lists simply bump it back up. Sometimes things can get missed.I feel you would get more honest feedback here rather than elsewhere where everyone just says YAY 5 stars so you will listen to there tunes to promote them. We had an ex member just like that. All about self promotion not giving a shit about anyone else.So, keep posting, if you do not get feedback, dont post more, bump them up. Too many people post miles too many songs at once. Things will pick up.
Don't know what his problem is with me, he's just a proper man child
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Faculty Workshop Center
Workshop Information — We invite you to provide us with information about your upcoming IHC workshops scheduled in your organization or community. Please be sure to indicate whether the workshop is open to attendees from outside of your sponsoring organization so we can help you in your efforts to increase attendance.
Faculty CE/CME Disclosure — In order to ensure independence, objectivity and scientific rigor in all continuing education activities and in accordance with the ACCME, AAFP, ANCC, and CFPC Standards for Commercial Support, all IHC faculty members in a position to control the content of an educational activity are required to disclose their relevant financial relationships annually. This includes indicating that you have nothing to disclose. You are required to provide your disclosure statement to your workshop attendees.
Request Permission to Create Customized Materials – If you would like to create job aids, videos, or other materials that draw on copyrighted IHC training materials, please submit your request. Further information and submission form available.


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Promise to Remember Me Campaign
The purpose of the Promise to Remember Me (Promise) campaign is to continue building and developing relationships locally with your Members of Congress by sharing your personal type 1 diabetes (T1D) stories. There is no substitute for Members and staff hearing, first-hand, what life is like with T1D and the importance of furthering research to help cure, treat and prevent T1D.
Across the country, advocates like you will be coordinating meetings with their national lawmakers. These meetings, and the relationships you develop with these legislators, are the reason that JDRF is one of the most effective advocacy organizations in Washington, D.C.
All it takes is signing up here, and we will work with you to schedule a meeting with your member of Congress.


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Oh hi there
We are Ben and Ellie Horrigan, a digital media mom-and-pop shop based in Manchester, with a focus on creating stunning digital content for non-profit organisations and local businesses. Ben has six years' experience producing video and other content for the BBC's online platforms, while Ellie is an organisational machine and a mean violin player.
We specialise in turning projects around quickly, cost-effectively and to an excellent standard. Basically, you get to work with one multi-skilled professional instead of paying a team of producers, writers, designers, editors and people calling themselves "social media gurus".
As well as the quality digital video you can see in our showreel, we do graphic design, branding, social media management, and other digital content like blogs, quizzes and infographics. Find out more on our Services page or get in touch with us directly.


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Since 2008, the earth has faced serious problems. The loan crisis, debt crisis and also the U.S. economy at this time are playing havoc using the livelihoods if of american citizens as well as families as well as their financial Security. Individuals which do have money left are searching for …Read More »
Daily Archives: December 20, 2016
Finance Careers – Investment Banking Analyst
For finance and business majors, probably the most coveted purports to have at graduation is definitely an analyst position in an investment bank. Business students are attracted through the pay, the prestige and also the fast-pace lifestyle these twenty-something analysts live. Before collecting that (big) signing bonus, prospective analysts should …Read More »


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Hi friends,
It has been a super long while since I have really blogged, but I have a surprise in store and I'm hoping that will motivate me to really keep it up (I think that is the 90th time I've said that….)
More on that surprise later though….
For now, I am joining Kelly Anne over at Appleslices for her HUGE giveaway. When I say HUGE, I mean it. Kelly Anne is giving away $100.00 to TeachersPayTeachers. Not to mention all the other amazing prizes other bloggers are giving away.
Click on the picture below to head enter. This is a giveaway you don't want to miss. And Kelly is the bomb.com so you want to head over there always :).
Have a great weekend!
Mrs. Cahill


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Tired of being uncomfortable in your office chair? We've got you covered! In today's post we'll showcase 6 super cool ergonomic chairs that are so comfortable you won't want to leave work. From the Oroblanco by Cherryman Industries to the Gist by Mayline, these top notch seating solutions are the best in the biz!
First up, the iDesk Oroblanco chair by Cherryman Industries. This revolutionary mesh back office chair combines modern ergonomic technology and high end appeal to form one of the best new seating solutions available on the market. The Oroblanco offers standard features that include adjustable arms, 4 locking tilt positions, and a built in user guide designed to help you reach your preferred sitting position with ease. Sit in the Oroblanco once and you'll never turn back. The quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and emphasis on ergonomic efficiency makes this chair an absolute value at just $321.50.
Business executives demand high quality office chairs built for comfort to help them make it through those long days at the office. That being said, if you want the absolute best, there's no better option than the Concorde Presidential Chair by Global Total Office. With it's $2495.99 price tag, the Concorde Presidential model is amongst the most luxurious chairs on the market. At first glance you'll notice the stunning design characteristics that have made this chair the preferred choice of several United States Presidents. When you first take a seat in the Concorde you'll be greeted by the most advanced button controlled adjustment system available. The Presidential Concorde chair is smooth during operation and a real head turner in the workplace. If you can swing the hefty price tag, this is one chair you'll be happy to see behind your desk for years and years.
The ORO100 Big and Tall office chair by OFM is durable, comfortable, and down right versatile! This executive style seating solution is outfitted with an adjustable tablet arm that really comes in handy in the workplace. ORO100 chairs support users up to 350 pounds with ease. The supple bonded leather upholstery is carefully stitched and tufted for plush comfort. The high back design of the ORO100 tablet arm chair provides full body support that's so good you'll be ready to work overtime for free.
Next on today's list of comfortable ergonomic chairs is the 98950 Multi-Shift from our friends at RFM. Known for their best selling designs and commitment to ergonomics, RFM's multi-shift chair was a must for today's post. The contoured foam back cushions cradle the back while sitting and support he lumbar area effectively. The easy to use ergonomic functions and tractor style seat allow users to work at peak performance levels day in and day out. The Multi-Shift is constructed of top quality materials and provides the structural integrity needed to provide stability and top notch operation, even in 24 hour work environments.
Adjustable, affordable, and comfortable! The Offices To Go 11860B mesh back task chair offers unmatchable benefits at it's $178.99 price point. This ergonomic seating solution is perfect for active work environments and home applications alike. The 11860B's supportive mesh back structure is durable and attractive behind the desk. The adjustable arms allow users to find posture perfect computing positions quickly and easily. Needless to say, you'll hard pressed to find a more user friendly, comfortable, and well built office chair for under two hundred bucks! Just because you can't spend thousands on a new chair, doesn't mean you don't deserve to work in comfort. Give the 11860B a try today, you'll be glad you did!
Gist chair by Mayline is taking offices near you by storm! Released just a few short weeks ago, the Gist has hit the ground running. These innovative, stylish, and ergo friendly chairs boasts standard features that include tilt tension, tilt lock, adjustable arms, and much more for the everyday low price of $327.99. Mayline never fails to impress and the Gist chair is set to be one of the years hottest models. The attention to detail is evident in all aspects of this seating collection. Choose from a variety of cool color options to compliment your workplace decor and sit in unmatched comfort that will have you ready to roll through your work days with ease.


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This new book edited by the former brazilian Ministry of Agrarian Development (currently Special Secretariat for Family Farming and Agrarian Development) compiles the omitted science in the approval of GM seeds
"Transgenic Crops: hazards and uncertainties" has a different format from the conventional ones that propose to present a bibliographic review of scientific publications related to a certain subject. It innovates by placing questions about aspects of the scientific debate on the genetic modification of living organisms for, subsequently, presenting a list of references opposed to the versions adopted by regulatory agencies such as the National Technical Biosafety Commission (CTNBio) and disclosed in marketing campaigns sponsored by the GM industry.
download: http://bit.ly/750studies


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Summer is nearly hear so I won't have to wait very long!
Nature; the best thing we've been given
Summer is nearly hear so I won't have to wait very long!
50 comments:
Gorgeous photos!ReplyDelete
The ones of Lily are so autumn-like and lovely!
Awesome post
I want summer to come back in my hometown. Great photos!ReplyDelete
such dreamy picsssReplyDelete
i love!!!!!
and thanks for the sweet comment...you have an awesome blog!
mmmm breeze, fresh air, smell of autumn, nuts, squirrels, rain, coffee&cozy, stay in........ReplyDelete
and then, again. nice pictures
yes i do!ReplyDelete
because then i can tan :D
i LOLed at the chanel bag picture!
ahaha :D
love annie <3.
Gorgeous stunning collection of photos !! I love love Lily Cole so much,she's so beautiful :)ReplyDelete
I agree! I love nature and I love those images that you posted. x)ReplyDelete
Lovely blog.
Lovely photos!!ReplyDelete
prachtige foto;s!ReplyDelete
love the photos of lil and this post ^^ReplyDelete
aaw i love lili ;) awesome pics!ReplyDelete
Beautiful pictures♥ Besos.ReplyDelete
These are great pictures~ReplyDelete
Gorgeous images:)!!!ReplyDelete
the Chanel bag !!!ReplyDelete
Cute pictures! I like the outfit in the photo on top.ReplyDelete
i absolutely ADORE your blogReplyDelete
totally gorgeous, keep it up!
love everything about your inspiration
thanks for the sweet comments as well, ive linked you!
check out my blog @
These are really amazing. My favorite is the last one.ReplyDelete
I love the shot with the giant (i think its chanel) bag....dreamworthy!!!ReplyDelete
love the chanel bag girl... :) and i noticed my old header pic made it into your sidebar... which is awesome btw!ReplyDelete
lovely blog! those photographs are very beautiful. :)ReplyDelete
love the lilly pics...so fairytale likeReplyDelete
nature and fashion are BFF.ReplyDelete
I love the mix.
great post lilee!ReplyDelete
love you!
I love these photos!ReplyDelete
Oh I love these picsReplyDelete
Aww love the pics!♥ReplyDelete
Quilted bag as a cover-up... I love it!ReplyDelete
ahhh! it is NOT summer here in new york, unfortunately! these are all beautiful and many of them remind me of alice in wonderland.ReplyDelete
xx -erina
Love this! :)ReplyDelete
- AnonymousMonday, October 26, 2009
best time of the year looooove it. those pics are great xxxReplyDelete
- AnonymousMonday, October 26, 2009
i love that dress with the feathered shoulders! :)ReplyDelete
~ http://hellomisschic.blogspot.com
Yes I do agree nothing beats pretty green grass & perfect blue skies! <3ReplyDelete
:D I love agyness deyn! *points to your side bar!* hehe
LOVE the pictures. Its fabulous...
And I so agree with this post title.
Nature is beautiful :D
xxx TheLittleFlower
Lovely photos!ReplyDelete
- AnonymousTuesday, October 27, 2009
LOVE LOVE LOVE your blog! Dreamy pictures are where it's at! CxReplyDelete
lovely photos.ReplyDelete
Ugh, I miss summer! these are fabulous photographs though, thanks for sharing them (:ReplyDelete
I want summer back!ReplyDelete
Gorgeous photographs! I love your blog, and the banner, and the zebra theme..
The last photo is gorgeous. I love the feeling of these photos but i honestly cant wait for the snow storms to get here.ReplyDelete
I went for a swim today ;)ReplyDelete
I love this time of year
Lily Cole is way too gorgeous!ReplyDelete
lovely photos ;)ReplyDelete
great pictures! I actually don't think I've seen any of these before. Wow, I need to read more magezines...ReplyDelete
Wow i love this collection of photos, if i ever need inspiration on these autumn mornings i know where to look!Also love your photo bar thing along the side of the page!ReplyDelete
Dreamy shots!! Summer is the ultimate! Nothing beats sunshine and summer festivities!!ReplyDelete
I can't decide on Lily Cole - when she's made up to look doll like she's beautiful, but something about her puts me off. Though maybe I'm just bitter. Love the blog XReplyDelete


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WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 11: President and Founder of the National Action Network Rev. Al Sharpton (R) speaks as Tracy Martin, father of Trayvon Martin who was fatally shot by neighborhood watch captain George Zimmerman in Florida, listens during a news conference April 11, 2012 in Washington, DC. It has been reported that Zimmerman will be charged in the Trayvon Martin shooting according to Florida special prosecutor Angela Corey. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images)
Today on Keeping It Real With Rev. Al Sharpton, Rev. and his guests Charles Ellison and Republican Armstrong Williams discuss the VP debate, winners and losers. They also preview what this means for the upcoming Presidential debate. Do not forget to tune in to Keeping It Real with Rev. Al Sharpton weekdays from 1-4p.m. In case you missed it here's a portion of the show:


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The district's softball field is the only known case of the hazardous material within the county
Note: This is a corrected version. The original story and headline incorrectly attributed closure of the ball field to
state environmental officials.
It took a renovation of South Brunswick Middle School's softball field before officials figured out coal ash was buried beneath the surface.
The source of the ash: Southport's Cogentrix coal-fired energy plant, which distributed the ash in the early 1990s.
"It wasn't documented, because back then it wasn't deemed hazardous waste," said Stephen Miley, Brunswick County Schools' director of operations. "It wasn't in the spotlight until recently."
The district's softball field is the only known case of the hazardous material within the county, but with little documentation, it's unknown how widespread the substance was distributed. The county's one instance has rendered the ball field useless for now.
"We are keeping everyone off there," Miley said. "We are mowing, but that's all we are doing. We don't want to put children in harm's way in any shape or form."
According to Frank Holleman, senior attorney for the Southern Environmental Law Center, environmental regulators were lax on coal ash disposal. The hazardous waste leftover from burning coal contains mercury, arsenic and other toxic substances.
The consequences of the debris came to the forefront after a Feb. 2 spill in Rockingham County sent 40,000 tons of the sludge into the Dan River.
Before then, there was little oversight of the material, Holleman said.
"(Utilities) allowed for people to take it off site and use it," he said. "Whatever records they have may vary from utility to utility and site to site."
He added it's nearly impossible to say how widespread the problem is. Brunswick County spokeswoman Amanda Hutcheson said the county staff doesn't know of any other sites where the ash might have been used, but many say it was easy to acquire the material.
"What we do know is utilities were very liberal it its use," Holleman said.
At the softball site, state regulators determined in March that coal ash left on the facility posed no health risks and students could play on the field.
But Miley said students have not been allowed to play there. The ash lies just beneath the dirt surface, and there's still a large pile of the ash nearby.
"You don't want it in your water or for that matter, playgrounds," Holleman said.
Nonetheless, the thick lining of dirt makes the field safe to play on, he said.
"But the other effect is, if it's an unlined pit of coal ash, there is a possibility it can leach into the water table or possible drinking water supplies," Holleman said. A report from the state Department of Environment and Natural Resources says it is unlikely groundwater has been contaminated by the coal ash under the field.
Miley didn't provide the documentation on how the district is working with DENR to solve the problem as plans are still in review. He did say the pile of exposed ash will be disposed of in a lined landfill.
Miley hopes the field will reopen by the fall, if not, the district will arrange to use fields nearby.
Jason Gonzales: 343-2075
On Twitter: @StarNews_Jason


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Is it possible that there's one single spot in the world, just a small area, perhaps only a few square feet in size, where you're most content, most relaxed — a place where you can hear yourself, and trust what you hear; a place where you're most like the person you know yourself to be, or at least most like the person you want to be?
If so, then my spot is a few square yards of sand in front of an old twisted palm tree on Keawakapu Beach in south Maui.
It doesn't hurt that the water is lapping at my ankles and the view is of the setting sun burning up the sky over the neighbouring island of Lana'i. I've known this spot for 30 years. For 10 years, my home was just back from the sand — my hammock hung from that twisted palm. For the past 20 years, I've done all I can to return to this very spot on a regular basis. Perhaps it's some kind of personal vortex or energy field or perhaps there's some other New Age type explanation I don't generally believe in, but no matter, this is it — my spot. It simply offers me something the rest of the world can't. It's ever abiding, yet constantly changing — forever being altered by the sea.
That feeling of change could apply to the rest of the island as well. Of course, Maui, like all of the Hawaiian Islands, has come of age since I first arrived in the 1980s as a very young man. That quiet island I landed on morphed into a super power destination, with all its muscled-up attractions, and then into a grandiose playground for the wealthy that went through tough times when boom turned to bust a decade ago. Recently, a welcome restraint, a casual sense of hipster aloha, has begun to emerge — particularly at the Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, where I station myself. And yet the old Maui I've always known is still here too. In my spot — and elsewhere.
High up on Haleakalā — the 10,000ft volcano that dominates the island — the 'upcountry' community of Kula feels forever unchanged.
"We live in our own little bubble up here," John 'Sheldon' Wallau tells me. We're leaning against the doorway of his Keokea Gallery, watching the occasional pickup truck roll past. The gallery is one of just a handful of shops on this lightly travelled part of the island. For the past 27 years, Sheldon has often been found standing in this doorway accompanied by his scruffy dog, Ipo. He's the proprietor, sole artist on display, and neighbourhood philosopher. "Not everyone is happy living at the end of a dirt road — but I am."
Far from the sea, the air is cooler up here and the land more fertile. Jacaranda trees explode in purple bloom, nene birds flit freely, horses graze lush pastures. Beside Sheldon's gallery is Grandma's Coffee House, a small, plantation-style shed, serving my favourite cup of coffee on Maui — and worth the drive just for that. Sipping my second cup out on the porch — another of my favourite spots — a red-crested cardinal hops between tables.
My mind rests, and I gaze down thousands of feet across the slope of the volcano to the sea. Intermittent clouds below me paint the water shades of blue. Owner Al Franco walks out of the shop. He's a native, and like many Hawaiians I know, he has an easy-going demeanour that masks a fierce pride in family and community. Al knows just about everyone in the place this morning — each of his conversations punctuated with laughter. He's been trying to get me to go night diving for sharks with him for years.
"Not yet," I tell him. So instead I'm invited to a pig roast he's serving up later in the day.
The sweetest mango
Back down the hill, I'm cruising the main street through Kihei, the rambling seaside town where I used to live. Adele is on the radio singing about When We Were Young. Thirty years earlier, along this same stretch, Madonna belted from my radio about feeling Like a Virgin. There were no traffic lights on this road then — today I lose count after six. From the corner of my eye, I spot a small, hand-painted sign and swing my car into an unpaved parking lot. A chicken scampers across my path, a half-dozen fuzzy offspring giving chase. Yee's Orchard, the sign says, is selling fresh, local mangos. A small lady named Lorma is slicing a coconut behind the warped, wooden countertop.
"How long has this stand been here?" I ask.
"Yee's? Oh, I don't know. Forever."
I've driven this road hundreds and hundreds of times. How had I never noticed it before? The mango is perhaps the sweetest I've ever tasted.
I'm still shaking my head in disbelief when I pass Ukumehame Beach. A group of young surfers are catching their first waves in the gentle swell, just as the generation before them did at this same beach when I first arrived, before graduating to the big breaks like Jaws on the north shore, just beyond the town of Paia. No town seems to represent the evolving Maui as much as this one-time hippie haven.
The tanned beauties and dudes with dreadlocks and guitars hanging from their shoulders, piling out of worn-out vans are still here, but so now is the artisanal ice cream shop with cones being served up by the guy with the man-bun and the girl with the full-sleeve tattoo. Posh boutiques are displacing the tie-dye. Yet Paia is wearing its transition to success loosely. It's an easy place to spend more time than you planned, but I've got a craving that can only be satisfied on the other side of the island.
Across the isthmus that connects Haleakala and the conical volcanos that created the West Maui Mountains, the road funnels inevitably toward Lahaina, the island's tourist centre. Front Street swarms, as it always has, with red-skinned visitors in floral shirts jockeying to get on whale-watching boats, or have their pictures taken with rainbow-coloured parrots on their heads. Art galleries are stocked with oversized sculptures of noble-looking sea turtles and twisting, smiling dolphins. You can buy prints by Picasso, or Chagall, or Dalí, and then step next door and have a beer at Moose McGillycuddy's pub.
But just around the corner, a few minutes' walk from the sprawling banyan tree beside the docks, a vestige of Maui's romantic past sits virtually unnoticed. In the mid-19th century, Lahaina was the epicentre of the whaling trade in the Pacific. Apparently not all the visiting sailors acquitted themselves with conduct becoming of a gentleman.
The preserved Hale Pa'ahao ('Stuck in Irons House') has a well-manicured yard shaded by mature monkeypod trees — it's an improbable haven of tranquillity in chaotic Lahaina. The old jail was built by King Kamehameha III to detain unruly sailors who refused to return to their ships by sundown. A quick look at the freely available records shows 1855 to have been a busy year — 330 convictions for 'drunkenness', 169 for 'fornication' and 89 for 'furious riding'. But apparently prison life was not all bad. Seaman William Mitchell Stetson, of the whaling bark, Arab, confided in his diary: 'Male and female all had freedom of the prison yard and mingled promiscuously, we had a very sociable time.' And if the hardships of prison life ever did become too much of a strain, then the coral restraining wall, at a little over 10ft high, was easily scaled once the sailors sobered up.
Into the wilderness
Beyond Lahaina, developments at Ka'anapali and Kapalua line the coast — and then it all stops. No more resorts, no more condos, no more shops, no more houses. Whatever success Maui is having hasn't encroached out here. The more famous road to Hāna carries you around Haleakalā on a wonderland of hairpin turns, but over on this backside of the island, the going is more remote and challenging. The West Maui Mountains shove the crumbling road around like a piece of twine. Tight switchbacks yield to long, swooping arcs that bring me deep into valleys and then propel me back out toward the coast. My radio is filled with static. My phone has no reception. I pull to the side of the road and step out. Looking over the Pacific — open sea for thousands of miles — I breathe deeply. This is the Maui I think of when I'm a long way from it.
Ahead, at the apex of a hairpin bend, a young man sits alone in a folding chair, miles from anywhere. He smiles.
"Buds. Maui buds."
He gestures — forefinger and thumb pinched together, rising to his mouth. I drive on.
A sign tells me the speed limit is 25mph — that's wildly optimistic. Then over a rise, Kahakuloa comes into view beneath me. Wedged in a small valley on a black-rock beach, it's a settlement of roughly 100 native Hawaiians. Old Maui — insular, slow.
Kahakuloa has no shops, no services, just a small green-and-yellow shed that has what I've come for. Moana Coston is the youngest of eight, and she's selling her Auntie Julia's homemade banana bread from the roadside stand.
The bread — famous throughout the island — is still warm. I sigh after the first bite. Moana laughs, and we begin to talk.
"It's nice here in the valley," she says vaguely, glancing away.
"Ever think of leaving?'
"I did. It wasn't for me. I came back." She has a wide, easy smile. "I was on Oahu for a year. Too fast."
"So that's it then?" I wonder.
"Might be nice to marry some day."
"Someone from the village?"
Moana laughs wildly. "No way. I see them every day, I know everything about them all."
"Is Julia around?"
Moana nods in the general direction of the stream cutting through the valley to the ocean. I wander down the hill; a small kid is carrying a large chicken in his arms. He points over to the one-lane bridge and I find Julia in her 'Julia mobile' — part tractor, part golf cart, sitting by the side of the road.
I've known Julia for years; she invites me back to her house on the black-rock beach where the surf crashes then chatters as it recedes over the stones. We talk and laugh about nothing much at all. The dog comes by for a pet. Her grandson, Andrew, preens — he won a local talent contest and is going to LA for his 'big break'. We laugh some more and dream big. I eat more banana bread. The Kahakuloa welcome is warm — and transitory. This is a place for locals, true locals. Eventually I ease back onto the road.
Beyond Kahakuloa, sheer mountain walls flank one side of the curved road; plummeting drop-offs with no guardrail hang from the other. Then I take a hill and the land opens and without warning I'm in grazing country: I swear I could be in Connemara, in the west of Ireland.
Eventually, the road leads me back to Wailuku, the island's historic business district, with a worn-out charm, and I find my way up into the Iao Valley in the heart of the West Maui Mountains — the way I always do when I'm on this side of the island. This is sacred Hawaiian land, home to a historic battle for control of the Hawaiian Islands between King Kamehameha the Great and Kalanikupule. Today, it's tranquil, lush rainforest. Low clouds race between jagged cliffs, waterfalls plunge. It's a soulful place. But the light slashing through the high walls tells me the day is wearing on — and I've got to get back. Back to a few square yards of sand by a crooked palm tree. Sunset is coming. My spot is waiting.
Getting there & around
Fly to Maui's Kahului Airport from Heathrow with American Airlines, United Airlines or Delta via Los Angeles daily.
You can get around Maui by shuttle, tour bus, taxi or public transportation. But to really experience Maui, consider reserving a rental car in advance from the Kahului or Kapalua Airport.
More info
Lonely Planet Hawaii. RRP: £15.99
How to do it
Western & Oriental offers seven nights at Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, Hawaii, from £2,955 per person, based on two adults sharing an Andaz Garden Room on a room-only basis. The price includes return economy class flights from Heathrow with United Airlines and private transfers.
Published in the November 2016 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK)


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Address: 55 Main St., Blue Hill
Executive director: Susan Shaw
Founded: 1990
Employees: 7
Services: Research on impact of pollutants on marine environments
2012 budget: $700,000-$800,000
Contact: 374-2135
After researching ocean contaminants for almost 20 years, Susan Shaw has become more and more alarmed over the rise in pollution.
"The oceans are at a tipping point, and we need to do something to stop the rising toxicity in the sea," says Shaw, director of the Marine Environmental Research Institute in Blue Hill, which she founded in 1990. And that is especially important for Maine, which she says is a bellwether state for ocean health, where people from all walks of life rely on the sea for everything from fishing to recreation.
For Shaw, preventing pollution, particularly from flame-retardant chemicals, has become a life focus. This fall, she and her colleagues will publish what she says is the first study to examine how brominated flame retardants in household materials such as beds and pillows endanger the health of U.S. firefighters. The study, to appear mid-October in the journal Chemosphere, shows that exposure to such chemicals during firefighting may carry even higher risks for cancer and other health problems than previously thought.
"There is no doubt that firefighting is a dangerous occupation. What we have shown here points to the possible link between firefighting and cancer," she says. Although it was a small pilot study of 12 San Francisco firefighters, she expects federal agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health to follow up with a large study on thousands of people.
"Firefighters are like a sentinel species [which indicates the health of an environment]," says Shaw. "They are exposed to chemicals we don't need in our furniture."
But consumers also inhale bromides through indoor pollutants as foam breaks down in sofas, for example. Pets and children are particularly susceptible, she says, because they are close to dust on the ground.
MERI also plans to launch the Stop Toxic Ocean Pollution campaign later this fall with several institutional partners. MERI's priorities are to stop toxic chemicals from flowing into the sea, including flame retardants, plastics and microplastics, as well as chemical dispersants for oil spills and boat yard effluent. The focus will be on research, consumer education and advocacy with legislators and policymakers.
"If you have chemicals in your mattress or computer, what can you do?" she says about the need to educate consumers. "Most people are exposed to toxic chemicals in their lives. People need to know we have these problems and can do something about them." For instance, consumers can seek out furniture or computers made by companies that do not use toxic compounds, she says.
Shaw traces her enthusiasm for environmental protection back to Rachel Carson, who wrote much of her groundbreaking book on pesticides, "Silent Spring," in the Boothbay Harbor area. That book is credited by many with starting the environmental movement.
"I'm very inspired to do something using Maine as a base on the 50th anniversary of Rachel Carson's book," says Shaw, who is evolving to take more of an advocacy role. "I was in a whole different field when Rachel Carson started the environmental movement in the '70s. I had a master of fine arts in film and was a documentary filmmaker. 'Silent Spring' completely got my attention, and I decided to make that my field of work."
Adds Shaw, "Carson was so connected with the Maine coast, which is vital to our economy as it crosses over many social-economic sectors. It affects everyone from every walk of life from people clamming to sailing."
Shaw also has a PhD in public health/environmental health sciences from Columbia University, where she focused on the effects of toxic chemicals in people and animals. She also is a fellow of the Explorers Club, which promotes scientific exploration and whose members included Sir Edmund Hillary, Jane Goodall and Neil Armstrong.
One of the largest long-term projects Shaw has led at MERI is "seals as sentinels," launched in 2000 to examine the levels, effects and trends of toxic environmental contaminants in harbor seals and their prey fish. Her pioneering work is credited with influencing policy decisions in the United States and abroad, including the Maine Legislature's decision to ban the neurotoxic flame retardant Deca, and the subsequent U.S. phase-out of the chemical.
Shaw says MERI's business model contributes to saving the environment for fishing, logging, farming, environmental research and tourism, which in turn creates an economic impact. One example is tracking sea temperature, which is rising in the midcoast area, and trying to get a handle on the trends in coastal waters. MERI also monitors 40 sites in Blue Hill Bay for acidification, which can result in the disappearance of clams in acidic mud.
"Maine's character and the beauty of its 3,500 islands make it a special and inspiring place," she says.
When the STOP campaign gains momentum, MERI plans to hire at least 10 people, more than double the seven current full-time staff. Most hires will be in Maine over the next three years. During that time, she also plans to raise $5 million for MERI, to expand its current annual budget of $750,000-$800,000.
"MERI is now at a taking off place," she says. "And STOP could put Maine on the map."
Lori Valigra, a writer based in Harrison, can be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com.
FHC's Keri Seitz keeps focus on brain surgery
Adam Wintle energizes his family farm with an innovative new business
John Hallé banks on new industries in Maine's wood basket
Luke Livingston launches brewery, trend bringing commerce to Lewiston
Jean Maginnis connects art, business to drive Maine's economy
Don Gooding trains Maine entrepreneurs
Fortunat Mueller and Phil Coupe shine light on renewable power
Stephanie Volo keeps Planet Dog on track with its mission and market
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In the Trenches with Ben Mahdavi
Aug. 10, 2002
Recently, we caught up with senior inside linebacker Ben Mahdavi to discuss his offseason workouts, goals for the 2002 season, and more. The team's leading tackler during the 2001 season, Mahdavi has come a long way since arriving at Washington without a scholarship in 1999. Here's what the Mercer Island, Wash., native had to say:
GoHuskies.com: What did you do this summer?
Mahdavi: 'Actually, I flew to Texas and worked out for two and a half weeks with [Husky tight end] Kevin Ware. I wanted to let my body feel what it's like to be in the humidity. Down in Texas, that's just about as extreme humidity can get. I realized what my body will be like when I'm playing in that climate, and from that gained knowledge as to how to prepare, how to warm up, and how to be ready for those conditions.'
GH: What are your personal goals this year?
Mahdavi: 'I want to win the Butkus Award, given to the nation's top linebacker. To do that, I'm going to have to accomplish every one of the smaller goals on my goal sheet - such as leading the team in tackles, earning All-American honors. I feel like if I accomplish every one of those goals, I'll have done the best I could.'
GH: What Husky defensive player do you think will surprise people this season?
Mahdavi: 'Defensive lineman Terry Johnson. He's just a creature. I'm really happy to have the guys in front of me that I have. Some people might think that we're going to take a step back on the defensive line, having lost guys like Larry Tripplett and Marcus Roberson to the NFL, but I think that as a whole unit, we'll be stronger there this year than we were in 2001.'
GH: Washington is ninth in the preseason AP poll. What kind of stock do you put into such rankings?
Mahdavi: 'I think that we're in a pretty good spot right now. It doesn't really matter where you're ranked at the beginning of the season, because a lot is going to change after the first game. Basically, preseason polls are like picking from a hat. That said, I'm comfortable in the position we're in right now.'
GH: What's the worst thing about two-a-day practices?
Mahdavi: 'Nothing. I love two-a-days. I'm a hard worker; that's my way of life. The camaraderie, the hard work - this is all stuff I love doing. I'm just enjoying it.'
GH: What do you think about Washington's depth at linebacker?
Mahdavi: 'It's unbelievable. We've got a lot of players on this defense that can play.'
GH: What advice do you have for walkons trying to make it at a major program like Washington?
Mahdavi: 'Obviously, anyone who is willing to come to a big-time program as a walkon is someone who doesn't doubt themselves. They know that they can succeed here. The challenge is to keep that optimism throughout.'
GH: Who is your favorite non-football Husky athlete to watch?
Mahdavi: 'Honestly, it would have to be a past guy, [former UW point guard] Bryan Brown. He and I grew up together. We used to call him 'Booty' - everyone in the world called him Bryan 'Booty' Brown.'
GH: Do you favor the bowl system or a playoff?
Mahdavi: 'I personally think that the bowls are special. That's how college football has been from the get-go. I think that, sure, the BCS makes mistakes, but for the most part, it's doing its job. I mean, Miami was definitely the best team in the nation last year.'
GH: Do you have any guilty pleasures?
Mahdavi: 'It would probably surprise people to find out that I read a lot. I love action novels, authors like Tom Clancy and Clive Cussler. I have so many favorites, I don't think I could name just one.'
Mahdavi Named to Roster for Shrine GameAug 28 '02
In the Trenches with Derrick JohnsonNov 17 '04
Airing on:
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Airing on:
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Cruise Travel PDF
Published on 2000-03 by
Cruise Travel is the world's leading cruise vacation magazine. Whether you're an experienced cruiser, a first-timer, or just dreaming of a cruise vacation, Cruise Travel is for you. Every issue is packed with full color features on the best cruise ships as well as complete deck plans for our |Ship of the Month| feature. Also included, is a complete cruise calendar featuring cruises throughout the U.S. and the world. Embarkation ports, all ports-of-call, and itineraries are also featured as well as complete costs of the cruises. Reviews of new and classic vessels, tips on shore excursions and shopping, and much more all written by industry leading travel writers and photographers.
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Criminal Profiling Topic of the Day: People Are Getting Stupider and Stupider
I work in the news business and I think, in general, the news agencies try to bring the most important issues to the public. However, churning out news for our twenty-four hour-a-day news networks, daily newspapers, and the massive number of Internet results in lot of repetition, sensationalism, and less-than-worthy stories making it out there.
But FirstCoastNews.Com just hit a new low today, totally embarrassing the news media with such tripe that they ought to be the laughing stock of the industry.
But FirstCoastNews.Com just hit a new low today, totally embarrassing the news media with such tripe that they ought to be the laughing stock of the industry.
You know about the sad case of the little missing girl, Haleigh Cummings(pictured left) who has been missing for three weeks now. The news stories about this case are already a garish circus. Geraldo Rivera is doing his usual "irreverent" style of aggressive and tacky interviewing (though I did appreciate that he got Haleigh's father, Ronald Cummings, to look straight into the camera and lie like a dog that didn't EVER do drugs (meaning that the police must have falsely arrested him some ten times for cocaine, meth, marijuana, heroin, GHB, etc.
The girl's father, Ronald Cummings, spouts off obscenities and acts out in weird ways (check out that frightening tattoo he's got of Haleigh on his leg which looks more like the child bride of Chucky than the pretty little tyke). Add to this to a whole cast of squirrelly characters who should be on Jerry Springer - the girlfriend, Misty Croslin, who can't keep her story straight, Haleigh's mother's overly emotional fiance, and the creepy criminal cousin Missy claims is a pedophile. What should be serious news topic becomes a bad reality television show with daily outrageous episodes.
But, THIS, this "news" story just made me wonder if media outlets hire reporters and producers who just left their jobs at Petsmart the week before. This "news" story, which just appeared on FirstCoastNews.Com , required a reporter to actually drive out to this woman's house to get the "story, do the interview on camera and then get the piece approved by his boss for public viewing. Wait until I tell you the title of this "news" story! WOMEN DREAMS ABOUT HALEIGH CUMMINGS BEING IN MISSOURI.
Yes, Melanie (pictured at the top of the this post) with-no-last-name (hell, I wouldn't want them to put MY last name out there if I did an interview that made me look like I had an IQ of a Doritos chip) had a dream! That's right, folks, Melanie had a dream! Woo Hoo! Now, she doesn't even claim to be a psychic (which makes me mad as hell when media gives these frauds the time of day) or to regularly have dreams come true (like that stupid show on television). No, she simply had A dream! OMG! Breaking news! Melanie had a dream!
Well, Melanie apparently thought this dream was SO meaningful she had to go to the police with it. Even though the location at which she "saw" a dead Haleigh, a town called Addison, Missouri, doesn't even exist ...oh, wait, Melanie says she found a place in Missouri called Madison, and, in her very own words, that's close enough), she called the tip line and the television station with this earth-shattering information.
Okay, maybe this flaky goofball (I can say this without getting sued; watch the video - truth is on my side) really believes her dream will help the family or, perhaps, she is seeking her fifteen seconds of fame (and she got painfully way more than that with this interview). I don't have too much of a problem with Melanie. The world is full of fame seekers, nutcases, and weirdos and the media will be sought out by droves of them. But, and this is what has me irked, the media is supposed to be a professional entity that can tell a news story from a pile of steaming shit (this story) or an an expert in profiling or homicide investigation (someone like me) from a publicity seeking felonious moron (like bounty hunter Leonard Padilla). Yet, Padilla is brought onto Nancy Grace daily, not as part of the news story, but as a consultant, a correspondent, a professional with specialized knowledge which this buffoon clearly has exhibits he is lacking, and now, FirstCoastNews spends its time interviewing a stupid woman who had a stupid dream. WTF?
Hey, I have some "news for FirstCoast. Everyone has dreams and lots of people in Florida have had dreams about Haleigh. Is this really something to report? Do you honestly think anyone in the United States cares that some fat woman from a trailer park (okay, maybe she lives in a regular house) had a dream? Did the production team (which must have had the combined IQ of an entire bag of Doritos chips) actually discuss this "lead" and say, "Gosh, we have to get this incredible story?"
Just when you think the world can't get any stupider....
Criminal Profiler Pat Brown


text: Looking for inspiration to make a sophiticated nursery for a baby boy? Consider modeling your little one's room after this perfectly sleek space. It's all about the amazing striped walls. We love how the orange really pops against the blue. Dark wood makes the crib and changing table feel grown up while a chandelier brings a touch of luxe.


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No two days are ever the same when you're a business owner. With everything and everyone on the go, it is important to know that your IT systems are continually being backed up and that data can be restored quickly if accidentally deleted or, worse, if a hardware failure occurs. The statistics support the fact that one of the bigger challenges businesses face is how to maximize business continuity and avoid business disruption following a computer failure. StorageCraft® ShadowProtect® Small Business Server provides fast and reliable server backup, disaster recovery, data protection, and system migration.
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When you are looking to backup and recover data you don't just need the software, you need reliable, secure hardware.
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The state-run Petrobangla has finally lost to Niko Resources over payment against gas sales, as an international court gave its final verdict, saying it would have to pay 234.16 crore taka as compensation.
The International Center for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) upheld its previous verdict today, which was delivered on 11 September 2014, following a claim raised by Niko against Petrobangla over payment against gas supply from Feni gas-field.
Petrobangla initially made payments to Niko Resources, but later stopped paying in line with verdict from local court, following two consecutive blowouts in Niko-operated Chhatak gas-field in Sunamganj. Cases has been filed against Niko for a compensation of 746.50 crore taka on that regard.
In its verdict, ICSID narrated that Petrobangla will have to pay approximately $25 million plus approximately Tk 140 million as per invoices for the gas, delivered from November 2004 to April 2010. In addition, Petrobangla will pay interest to September 11, 2014 of approximately $6 million and approximately Tk 50 million.
ICSID pointed out that Petrobangla will make payments into escrow accounts, which will be opened by Niko at a reputable internationally-operating bank. The funds in the accounts will be released only as instructed by the Tribunal or by joint instructions of Niko and Petrobangla.
Niko Resources attained operator-ship of Feni field under the terms of a 2003 joint venture agreement (JVA) with Bapex, which gave it an 80 per cent stake. The remaining 20 per cent went to Bapex.
The company also attained exploration rights over three onshore gas fields – Feni, Chhatak and Kamta – following the JVA, as the fields were declared 'abandoned' by Petrobangla. Niko succeeded in striking the deal without any competitive bidding.
Currently Niko has 60 per cent stakes in onshore Block-9 that produces around 110 mmcfd of gas from Bangura field, while 30 per cent including operatorship goes to Tullow, and remaining 10 per cent to Bapex.
Source – Sheershanews


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By Sen. Rand Paul
I hope against hope that the rumors are wrong and that President Donald Trump will not open the State Department door to the neocons. Crack the door to admit Elliott Abrams and the neocons will scurry in by the hundreds.
One of the things I like most about President Trump is his acknowledgement that nation building does not work and actually works against the nation building we need to do here at home. With a $20 trillion debt, we don't have the money to do both.
I urge him to keep that in mind this week when he meets with Elliott Abrams, the rumored pick for second in command to the Secretary of State.


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Congressional Luncheon / Tue Aug 15
This annual luncheon brings together over 2,000 business leaders, state and federal elected officials, and community champions. Attendees have the opportunity to hear directly from members of Georgia's congressional delegation on policy and legislation that directly impacts Georgia's business climate. One of this year's special guests includes Larry Joseph Sabato, an American political scientist and political analyst.
Macon Marriott City Center


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34 Years of The Heartbeat of the USA in the UK!
Americana International 2014
We are pleased to announce the move to our new home Prestwold Hall next July!
The area is well serviced by public transport, rail and by air and is just 10 minutes from either J23/J24 M1.
The venue is easy to get to and to keep very secure including the camp sites.
Security presence will remain key for the future of the Americana.
There is a huge race track on site, which we hope to utilise in the future to please all our petrol heads. We are currently in talks on how we can work together on this area with the guys at www.everymanracing.co.uk
The Americana umbrella encompasses so much! 2014 will include all the usual genres of cool Anglo-American music and stars from across the globe! From the 1940's- Modern Day. Country, RnR, Cajun, Rockabilly, Hillbilly, RnB, 60/70's and now we will be introducing some Motown and stars from the Mod Era to the mix.
Take advantage of the Early Bird Booking fees which apply till September 30th 2013.
We will also be giving our full attention to building up a new 'Kidz Zone' with many fun and free activities for our younger visitors, to keep up our family-friendly approach.
We will also have a dedicated traders area for fashion, to go hand in hand with the 4th annual Fashion show, as well as a Beauty Parlour and a larger craft fair area.
The Auto Jumble will be making a strong comeback – be sure to sign up early to trade those useful items you have gathering dust in your garages – somebody out there wants them!
As always, there will be our Custom Bike Shows, displays of American and Pre 75′ Euro / British classic vehicles with awards up for grabs in the Show and Shine!
There will be a 50's style fairground, Face Painting, Street Entertainers Native American Indians Tattooists and Evening Burlesque shows in an 'Adults Only' area.
Our Free Line Dancing and Jive lessons will continue, as will the Settlers encampment and a Wyatt Earp Western-style shoot out.
2014 will be a kaleidoscope of colour & sounds, fun for all the family.
We're working so hard to make 2014 the best event the world has ever seen – there is soooo much more still to be confirmed – keep in touch with our Facebook Page for updates!
See you in 2014!
Related articles
- Americana Chic. (tiffanybrooksinteriors.com)
- Celebrating Our Country's Musical Roots at Americana Festival (telluridefestivarian.wordpress.com)


text: Grade 1 students in room 208 had an election of their own on November 8th. After a hard-fought campaign, it was the day to decide ... Cheese Sticks or Apples ... for snack. The result ... Abigail Apple, in a landslide. There were also ballot questions posted to room 208:


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This is a spring full of fetid water.
The next three shots are the view from the "backyard."
Most of the shots above were taken by my wife. I was feeling so distressed by the trashiness of us humans that my mood thwarted my ability to see what would be good to photograph.
Below is a view from Badwater Road, with Bonneville in the distance, to the right of Badwater Creek which is only partially seen on the right of the shot. For a view of the entrance to Badwater Road from US-20, click here (this link also includes shots from our first trip along Badwater Road).
Quien Sabe Road (see sign below) is Spanish for Who Knows. Here is a link to Google Maps for the location of the junction of Badwater and Quien Sabe.
These are pronghorns (often referred to as antelopes, but really they are a different species):
Along the roads in this area, there are rocks which line both sides of the road. Maybe this is just the result of grading the roads or maybe this was done decades ago to help travelers know the path of the road.
After following Quien Sabe Road until it became what looked like a minor private road up the side of one of the foothills, we turned around and explored more of Badwater Road.
As you can tell by the photograph below, Badwater Road isn't filled with interesting sights. But what enhances the experience is getting out and seeing close-up what is suitable to be photographed. This is why we like this hobby.
These little hills or mounds are grayish green in color and so soft that the effects of rain are quite obvious.
Since we only had six hours of respite from taking care of my wife's mother, we had to cut short our return visit to Badwater Road. Maybe we will get another chance to visit this area.
link: index to photographs


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Other than cold soups, salads are another great option for raw food ideas. One of our favorite salads is the Spicy Thai Mango Salad. The mix of spicy, sweet and sour makes it a flavorful meal! Our salad was made with all raw ingredients including red onion, cilantro, garlic, ginger and lettuce with a mix of spice! Very tasty and energetic!Below: Spicy Mango Salad and some updated photos of our (very slow indoor growing) cherry tomato plants!
'Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience' - Ralph Waldo Emerson


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Dresses Directory
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The Muslim holy month of Ramadan is well underway, which means the majority of people in the Middle East are currently fasting during daylight hours. If you're planning to travel to destinations such as Egypt, Morocco, Abu Dhabi, Oman or Dubai where Islam is the major religion, it's worth doing some research into what Ramadan means for foreign visitors.
How you should behave will vary from place to place, but it's sensible to stick to the following guidance wherever you go to avoid causing offence.
One of the main things to steer clear of during Ramadan is eating and drinking in public - in many places this is considered disrespectful. Of course, if you're staying in your hotel it won't be an issue, but if you're out and about exploring the town or city, it's best to wait until you return to your accommodation before you have any refreshments.
It's worth noting that chewing gum and smoking are also frowned upon, because Muslims abstain from these habits too as nothing is allowed to pass their lips while they're fasting.
Women in particular are expected to cover up when they're in public during Ramadan, so pack long skirts or loose trousers, as well as tops that will cover your shoulders and upper arms if you'll be travelling in the Middle East at this time of the year. For men, make sure you always wear a T-shirt and at least knee-length shorts when you're out and about.
Depending on where you're travelling, you may find most restaurants and cafes are closed during the day, although in tourist destinations there will usually be at least a few places open where you can get refreshments - they may just be hidden from the street.
Never plan to do anything around sunset as this is breakfast time - known as Iftar in Arabic. Everyone will be with their families and friends breaking their fast, so aim to return from any excursions well before sunset and arrange for your evening activities to start once breakfast is over.
In some strictly Muslim countries, there can be fines for failing to adhere to certain rules (such as not eating, drinking or smoking in public) - if you are in any doubt about how to behave during Ramadan, ask for advice from your travel company before you depart.


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The White Rose Way
White Rose Way Home
The Walk
Book Orders
Baggage Handling
Contact Us
"My husband and I ALWAYS get lost on walks. On this one, we didn't put a foot wrong.
A brilliant book!"
Gill. Rothwell, Leeds.
"This is what Yorkshire is all about. A beautiful walk with great scenery".
Ken. Barwick, Leeds.
"Fantastically detailed and describes a varied and at times challenging walk. It takes you over some very beautiful countryside with fantastic views. Such an enjoyable route."
John. Northallerton, North Yorkshire.
We are two couples who started the walk in June 2013 and did it in an average of seven mile sections, using two cars. We completed it this last weekend, 14/2/15. We found the book to be extremely accurate with plenty of detail and very entertaining with the points of historical interest. We enjoyed this walk the best, having already done The Wolds Way and Minster Way. We are already looking forward to doing it again in the future. Thanks.
Well done on your study for and commitment to the White Rose Way. You must have put a good many hours into preparing it, checking your instructions and researching all the fascinating facts which certainly added to our enjoyment of the overall experience.
We found the information given in italics in your book helpful, informative, interesting and amusing. It certainly added to our enjoyment of the walk, and we feel we now know a swathe of Yorkshire previously unknown to us.
Elizabeth - Fleet, Hampshire. (March 2015)
My wife and I completed the walk a couple of weeks ago. I would say that our decision to do a short 4 mile walk straight off the train to reduce the walk to Wetherby was a good one. Although it was heaving with rain, the surprise at walking through trees so soon after leaving the city centre made up for it. We both enjoyed it thoroughly. We have done a few long distance paths in the past and this one really has become a favourite. We both loved it and wanted to do a lap of honour. The landscape is terrific to walk through. Our overnight stays were all excellent. Given the chance we would do it again starting tomorrow. Again, thanks for all your work in creating this walk. It was terrific.
Steve and Steffi Riley - Bolton, Lancashire. (May 2015)
My favourite stretches were between Leeds and Boston Spa, and Malton to Harwood Dale. The home straight along the Coast to Coast is a bit special too ! I did it during the hottest week of the year . All in all a memorable few days.
Your guide is very comprehensive and well written.
Andrew N. - Sowerby Nr. Thirsk, North Yorkshire (July 2015).
I enjoyed walking the walk in mid-May (2016), taking ten consecutive days from start to finish.
I was worried initially that there were no maps, although I found the instructions so detailed, they were unnecessary.
Many thanks for a WONDERFUL experience.
Eric Wells - Leeds.
Over 4 days from
4th May
2018 until 7th (Bank Holiday weekend) I walked the full length of the route supported by work colleagues and friends across the days, overnighting in Tadcaster, near Stamford Bridge and Thornton.
This split the route into 28miles, 23 miles, 26 miles and 27 miles across the days.
The main reason for writing was to say thank you.
Firstly, for the inspiration as I was planning on doing something to mark my 50th birthday but couldn't decide what.
Secondly, for your great book, the detail was perfect and although we had back up maps, I didn't need to refer to them once, as your directions were amazing.
Thirdly and finally, off the back of the inspiration, we have raised £18,000 for Candlelighters, so a huge thank you from them too.
Just thought you would be interested to know that your walk is being used and was well worth the effort involved in creating it.
Andrew - Leeds
On Thursday I completed the White Rose Way using your guide book. Your book was excellent, the most well written and easy to follow guide that I have ever used. Many thanks for your contribution to my enjoyable walk.
Catherine. Leeds. (Jan 2019)
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University Marketing
We're a creative group dedicated to exceeding client expectations and advancing the university through smart marketing strategies and dynamic storytelling.
We Texas State.
Nikki Stevenson
Digital Advertising Strategist
"I love the atmosphere of Texas State. We're a large, diverse community on a campus full of beautiful buildings, art and nature."
Caitlin Harvey
Assistant Director
"I enjoy the unique architecture on campus. All the different styles come together in eye-catching ways, especially in the sunshine."
César Limón
Senior Graphic Designer
"I love the diversity here and the support that the university has for students, faculty and staff, like the Hispanic Policy Network."


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TRAC and the workload model
One of the objectives of the Innovation and Transformation Fund project was to gather best practices to help define the sector's TRAC (Transparent Approach to Costing) requirements deemed acceptable for using a workload model as the basis for the University's TRAC submission.
Below is a brief summary of the work that was done on TRAC in the context of the workload model.
First pilot
In November 2011, UWE carried out a limited pilot involving three departments based on the spreadsheet and focusing on the data from the academic year 2010/2011. The data was compared to the Time Allocation Schedule (TAS) survey results.
KPMG audit
In February 2012, there was a KPMG initial internal audit which made recommendations to put together a formal project on workload planning improvement. The audit identified a way forward including the need for a new system and changes to make the workload planning process compliant for TRAC purposes.
Extended pilot
In 2013, UWE ran an extended pilot which aimed at comparing TRAC data generated from the previous TAS and the data generated from the workload model spreadsheets. The results from the pilot allowed the project team to make adjustments to the data collection process and confirm that the data generated from the workload model was as robust (if not more robust) as the data generated from the Time Allocation Schedule.
Benchmarking and best practice
Since January 2013, UWE has researched how TRAC data from WLM systems is generated in other HEIs. UWE has worked with KPMG, the TRAC Development Group (TDG) and several institutions via the Innovation and Trasnformation Fund project's Advisory Group, to propose and implement within WAMS a solution for producing a compliant TRAC data reporting process.
Review and compliance
In September 2013, KPMG carried out a TRAC compliance review which resulted in two non-vital improvements for UWE and its workload management system (WAMS) to be TRAC compliant.
As per the UWE experience, KPMG recommend that the data generated from TAS and the TRAC data generated from the WLM are run together in parallel in order to monitor and understand any variation between the two methods of collection. It is advisable to get input from the University's internal auditor as a sense check.
Did you know?
UWE contributed to the TRAC Development Group practitioners conference in London (October 2013).
Classification of TRAC categories
All allocations of workload must be attributed to a TRAC category code. Please consult the UWE classification of TRAC categories.


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An hour's drive northeast of Cape Town, the rolling uplands and fertile valleys of the Western Cape are cloaked in green and russet vines that produce some of the world's best wines. The Cape Winelands are a top tourist destination, and tasting your way around some of the 300-plus wine estates is a fantastic way to spend an afternoon, a day, or longer. But with majestic mountains rising above the vines and the historic towns of Paarl, Stellenbosch and Franschhoek creating three fantastic focal points, experiencing this beautiful tract of South Africa isn't just about the bottle.
Mountain biking and merlot
Lycra-clad bum in the air, sweat pouring off my head, I gulped hard and resisted the urge to slam on the brakes as I twisted and skidded past knotted scrub and menacing rocks. The first section of the Porcupine Trail had been thigh-burning in parts but wonderfully scenic, with marked trails leading between neat vines and winding through shady woodland. Here on the downhill section I wasn't feeling quite so calm but, after a chancy glance up at Table Mountain on the far horizon, I reminded myself that this was supposed to be fun.
Ten kilometres outside Stellenbosch, Delvera Farm has morphed from a dedicated wine estate to an outdoor adventure park. Hire a bike from the centre and take your pick of trails to explore, from the family-friendly Farm Trail or the challenging 15km Porcupine Trail, to the 3km expert downhill.
If biking's not your bag, you could stroll along the walking tracks past the Merlot and Sauvingnon Blanc vines, join a full moon or sunset hike in the hills, or put your bird-watching hat on and go in search of Jackal Buzzards and African Fish Eagles. There's also horseback-riding and go-karting to get involved in, as well as an excellent café where you can enjoy a glass of the local merlot after a day in the great outdoors.
Over the past few years, mountain biking has become increasingly popular in this part of South Africa and, beyond Delvera Farm, there are stacks more trails to discover. The slopes above Stellenbosch are particularly exciting, with the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve packed with jeep trails and single-tracks which weave past waterfalls and ancient yellowwoods. Hire bikes at Ride in Cafe where you can also stop for coffee or lunch, stay the night or book a guided tour.
To explore more on horseback, visit Wine Valley Horse Trails and canter into the mountains or combine riding and wine-tasting on a sunset trek. And as far as hiking goes, you've got everything from wandering through the wine estates to multi-day mountain expeditions at your fingertips.
Steeped in history
After mulling over which of the Winelands' main towns to stay in, I settled on Franschhoek – the smallest and prettiest of the three.
Established in the early 18th century by French Huguenots (a religious group who were escaping religious persecution in France), Franschhoek's street names are still written in French. Cape Dutch houses and pomegranate trees line the streets, and cafes spill out into the sunshine beside art galleries and curio (souvenir) shops. There's also a little museum here, which depicts the history of the Huguenots, as well as an orchid nursery, motor museum and stacks of local hiking trails.
This is the foodie capital of South Africa, so save plenty of room for breakfast, lunch and dinner in the alfresco eateries and fine-dining restaurants – I particularly loved the lunch menu at The French Connection Bistro and the relaxed ambience at Café des Arts, while Reubens was one of my favourites in the evenings.
Half an hour's drive west is Stellenbosch – South Africa's second oldest town. I dropped in for an afternoon to see some of the Western Cape's most impressive Dutch, Georgian and Victorian architecture and to wander down streets lined with ancient oaks. Home to a respected university, Stellenbosch has a busier, buzzier feel than Franschhoek and, surrounded by the Stellenbosch Mountains and nearby nature reserve, makes a great base for hikers and bikers.
A further half hour to the north, Paarl is home to the oldest Dutch Reformed Church in South Africa and is considered the spiritual home of Afrikaans: it was here that Afrikaans gained recognition as a written language. It's also a great location for golfers, with two top-notch courses and the Swingfit Golf Academy within easy reach.
Tasting time
With exercise and history ticked off my list, it was finally time to get stuck into a vineyard tour. If a bog-standard tasting experience doesn't appeal, there are plenty of options for more exciting tours, from cycle-rides to guided drives.
For the easiest way to visit several vineyards in a day, I stayed in Franschhoek and took the "Wine Tram". A hop-on/hop-off service that runs from 10am each morning, the Franschhoek Wine Tram ferries passengers between six estates. You can get off when you like and enjoy free wine tastings at the vineyards, linger for lunch or stay aboard and continue to the next stop.
Determined to pack as much in as possible, I caught the first tram of the day from central Franschhoek and trundled into the hills in search of chardonnay. First stop was the Haute Cabriere vineyards, where the heir to the estate escorted a group of us around the family barrels and bottles, filling us in on his history and explaining what makes a great wine as he handed round huge 'tasters'. By 11am I was on my third half-glass of red and watching him slice the cork off a bottle of fizz with a silver sword. "Drink up!" he bellowed "this one's a great year."
By lunchtime I had ticked off two more wine estates and had reduced my half-glass tastings to small sips – the wine was far too good to spit out! By 3pm, after four estates, a light lunch, and countless glasses of whites, reds and rosés, washed down with ports and sparkling wines, I decided it was time to head back to my hotel and sober-up in the swimming pool before dinner, which would no doubt entail more tastings.
After three days in the Winelands I had become wise to the fact that, while not everything revolves around wine, most days wind up with a glass or two.


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MOUNTAN VIEW, Calif., April 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — The IPL Alliance announced today its expanded charter to address the broader interoperability challenges associated with foundry process design kits (PDK) and design flows. The IPL Alliance also announced today the change of its name from "Interoperable PCell Libraries" to "Interoperable PDK Libraries" to reflect its expanded charter. A PDK is a comprehensive set of foundry verified data files, including PCells (parameterized cells), used in a complete analog and mixed signal design flow.
The IPL Alliance was originally formed in April of 2007 to promote and enable PCell interoperability. PCells are the fundamental building blocks for analog physical designs. PCell interoperability among design tools and flows is essential to improve analog and custom designer productivity. The IPL Alliance has made tremendous progress in solving PCell interoperability since its inception a year ago. A free IPL reference library and an online interoperability demonstration are available for download at http://www.iplnow.com, the IPL Alliance web site. An IPL ecosystem was established to validate PCell interoperability within all members' tools. The expansion of the IPL Alliance charter is the next logical step in developing standards that can enable a single, interoperable PDK works with all tools and flows.
"An open and interoperable PDK is important for maintaining design accuracy throughout the custom design process," said Jim Solomon, Board Member, Ciranova. "An industry standard like this promotes reuse and reduces PDK development cost. It also promotes innovation in analog and full custom design, enables customization and improves productivity and efficiency. I am pleased to see the progress IPL Alliance has made to date. And I encourage others in the industry to join the effort."
The IPL Alliance will present its latest update at the TSMC "Partner & Services Pavilion" at the 2008 U.S. Technology Symposium. Please visit the IPL booth at the San Jose Convention Center on April 22nd from 7:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. For more information about the IPL Alliance and to join, please contact Jingwen Yuan, IPL Alliance, at email@example.com.
About IPL
IPL (Interoperable PDK Libraries) is an industry alliance established on April 2007 to collaborate on the creation and distribution of an open-source interoperable PCell library that supports the OpenAccess database from the Silicon Integration Initiative (Si2). IPL has formed three technical working groups for Properties and Parameters, PCells and Constraints, expanded its charters to address broader interoperability issues with foundry process design kits (PDK) and design flows. IPL current members include Applied Wave Research (AWR), Ciranova, Helic, JEDAT, Magma Design Automation, Micro Magic, Silicon Canvas, Silicon Navigator, Synopsys and Virage Logic. Mentor Graphics and Pulsic are supporting members. Visit the IPL Alliance on the Web at http://www.iplnow.com
Contact: Jingwen Yuan IPL Alliance, 1-650-584-5000 email@example.com
SOURCE IPL Alliance
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