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The Raven: Legacy of a Master Thief Chapter 3
With the close of Chapter 3, The Raven: Legacy of a Master Thief turns what could have been a seminal mystery game into a mediocre adventure game. Through its over reliance on standard adventure game mechanics, and its inability to stay away from the "twist ending," The Raven ends with a bit of a whimper compared to the bang with which it started. There is still enough of a good story to recommend it, and if you have come this far, not finishing it should be considered a crime, but I can't promise that the ending won't leave you a little nonplussed.
It's absolutely impossible to discuss the story at any length this far in to completely avoid spoilers, so I won't. Suffice it to say that it picks up exactly where it left off, back aboard the cruise ship, though the character you start off playing is different then the one that we ended Chapter 2 with. By the end of the story, you will have seen how all the loose strings of the narrative fit together. The twist at the end is neat, and makes sense when looking back, but it leaves a bit of a bitter taste, especially given all the groundwork laid in the first chapter.
In some what of a classic call back, the latter half of Chapter 2 and all of Chapter 3 is the long form of the detective's explanation at the end of a mystery. In providing the point of view of different characters, it does liven up the rehashing of plot points, doing a great job in adding some extra drama to the already murderous boat ride, and some needed explanation as how The Raven expects to pull off his heist. As with the previous chapter, this back tracking leads to a bit of story breaking, but it's a bit easier to deal with given the size of the cruise ship and the particular character you are following.
What it also manages to accomplish is making me miss some well established characters, whose appearances are kept amazingly short, and think about the misappropriation of resources, in regards to characters who were criminally under used. I am speaking of three characters in particular: Zellner, our protagonist from Chapter 1 and the first half of Chapter 2, Legrand, the supposed Master Detective, and Lady Westmacott, who turns out to be nothing more then simply a reference, in name, body, and spirit, to Agatha Christie. Two of them are virtually non-existent until the story begins to wrap itself up, and one of them, named specifically after the pen name of one of the all time great mystery novelists, turns into nothing more then an annoyed info dump. Given the direction of the story, I understand where they were and why they weren't included, but it feels like all the work that went into making them possible standouts is lost in search of the most overused trope in mystery writing.
Also of note, is the return to Chapter 2's adventure game-ness. While the first chapter was filled with fairly logical puzzles, Chapter 3 continues with the 2nd's penchant for the illogical and non-apparent. While there were a couple of standouts, like the dachshund guarding the museum door, or the Axel Foley method to disarming a window alarm, we're also forced to endure another bath towel = rope escapade, as well as a convenient secret door which just happens to be locked by a series of pushable bricks. The last is especially obtuse, and was the first time I checked the in game hints out of general need. It turns out it wasn't thought provoking as much as hard to read, though I did enjoy the fact that the actual solution, which I had figured out, relies on a bit of foreign knowledge.
If you have gotten through the past two chapters already, there should be nothing holding you back from barreling through this one. Though this turned into more of an indictment of the third chapter, as a whole, The Raven is still a fine game, and a good mystery. While it seemed that it might be exploring some new ground with its take on common mystery tropes, like the bumbling constabulary, it eventually falls back on those common themes and ideas that mystery writers have used for decades. As an ode to Agatha Christie, The Raven does a more then fair job. As a mystery charting it's own ground, it ends up as little more than middling.
Reviewer and Editor for Darkstation by day, probably not the best superhero by night. I mean, look at that costume. EEK!


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The big news in China is all about reigning 110m Hurdles Champion Liu Xiang, who pulled out of the hurdles here due to a foot injury. Apparently half of China is sad for him; half thinks he is a choker. What a disgrace. Thank God we live in a nation that never puts the boots into a star going through a rough time...
On an unrelated matter, I saw Jana Pittman on Sunrise this morning. She thinks Sally McLellan can win a medal tonight. Here's hoping so. I would stay up to watch it, but I think I will be better off waiting for Channel 7 to show me the event in slo-motion with some pre-Bobby Brown Whitney Houston playing in the background.
This is how bad Channel 7 has made the Olympics - Today Tonight just did a segment on great Olympic moments. They showed Derek Redmond and I switched channels. Maybe it had something to do with having Peter Gabriel singing Don't Give Up in the background, or just the fact the fact the journo referred to Redmond as "the favourite for the 400m"; instead of "outside chance for a medal", still you can always trust Channel 7 to not think reality is good enough).
Big night of sport coming up. But I am greatly peeved to discover Australia doesn't have a team in the Madison cycling event. In Athens, Stuart O'Grady and Graeme Brown won Gold, and yet 4 years later we can't even muster up 2 kids on Malvern Stars to go round and defend the title? Damn it, if they had let me know I would've got my old 1977 Dragster out of my parent's shed and hooked a plane over to China. Just what the hell are you doing Cycling Australia???! It's all very well to throw up your arms and say "oh those damn British, how did they get so good?" But of you're not even going to bother entering anyone in the race, why the hell should we bother???!!!!
I am thisclose from using the words "my" "tax" and "dollars" in a sentence...
Mostly I'm upset because the Madison is such a bizarre fun event to watch, and now nothing will be able to stop Channel 7 from showing gymnastics ad infinitum.
Over at the Bird's Nest, I'm ready to settle in for a big night of montages. First up for Gold is the Men's High Jump. Now this is a field event, so vision of me in the shower belting out Nessun Dorma has got more hope of getting a viewing on Channel 7.
The High Jump is one of those events that seems to have reached a peak WR-wise. What would win Gold 20 years ago, would still be good now. In 1996, Charles Austin won with a jump of 2.39m, and that would be best in the world this year. My pick for Gold? Andrev Sinov over defending champion Stefan Holm.
The men's Discus Final is also on. I haven't been really into the Discus since man mountain Lars Riedel called it quits, and the big upset was world leading Iranian Ehsan Hadidi not making it through to the final, I would go with the Pole, Piotr Malachowski, mostly because I once knew a guy called Piotr, and he could have snapped my leg off and used it as a tooth pick, and I figure the name has something to do with it, but I must go with Virgilius Alekna to make it three Olympic title in a row (and that would be a moment).
The women's 400m will be won by Sanya Richards (put your superannuation on it - have I ever led you wrong? ahem).
The women's 100m Hurdles - Lolo Jones looks set to become the Gold medallist (expect a plethora of girls named Lolo to be born soon... or maybe not). I'm going to go out on a long limb and say Sally McLellan will do no worse than 4th.
The men's 1,500m is the last event of the night, and is severely lacking in big names. The best in the world this year, Kenyan Shedrack and Komen aren't even in the field (flubbed it at the Kenyan trials); but my tip is another Kenya - Kipruto Kiprop. He looked great in the heats and semi; and I just don't like Rashid Ramzi of Bahrain or Mehdi Baala of France (yes I have 1500m runners I like and dislike!).
7:54pm: The Opals are slaughtering the Czech Republic at the moment. Here's why I love the internet: you can find out how the Opals put on their uniforms. The answer? Apparently there are studs on the shoulders. The uniform was also in espn's competition to be the worst uniform in sport. It lost in the quarter finals.
Men's 3m springboard diving finals are up tonight, with perennial medal chance Robert Newbery doing the piking and twisting. His wife, Chantelle (gold medallist from Athens), only came 14th in the women's 3m springboard on Saturday. I completely missed it. Oh well, I'll get over it.
Here's a newsflash - about an hour ago Anna Meares, who earlier this year broke her neck in an crash in a race, qualified for the final of the women's sprint. If she wins, its going straight to the top of the list of story's of the games. I mean she broke her neck and comes back to win!!! All she has to do is beat the British Victoria Pendleton.
The final is on in 1 minute; but don't worry Channel 7 will cross over to it just as soon as they have finished editing the montage. (I'm thinking Mariah Carey singing Hero).
8:30pm:Yes!!!!!!!!! Channel 7 have gone from the gymnastics to the cycling.
8:38pm: Meares gave the English woman too big a head start in the first heat. Pendleton is the world champion, so it's a tough ask.
Whenever I watch men's gymnastics, my shoulders start to ache. Incredibly a 16yo German in in the lead in the men's parallel bars. He is single-handedly trying to bring down my argument on the merits of men's gymnastics over women's.
Some celebrity agent this morning predicted Michael Phelps will be a billionaire. Here's my prediction: in two months during the baseball world series and as the college football season starts and while everyone is gearing up for the next NBA season you could go to America and ask 10 random people in the street and maybe 1 of them will say, "oh yeah, he's that guy who won all those medals in the watchyacallthem Lympics".
In a year's time, more Australians will know his name than Americans. He could win every gold in the pool, but it isn't going to change the fact that he doesn't play basketball, NFL or baseball (and this just in, he ain't an oil painting).
Basketballer Lebron James, who made $40.5 million in the last year will earn more in a month than Phelps will in a year. (Unless you think millions of American kids are going to ditch their sneakers for speedos)
9:02pm:Anna Meares up for the second heat. Go you good thing!
Nope - Pendleton too good. But what an effort by Meares. Geez, it'd be hard for anyone in the team to complain about an interrupted preparation and look her in the eye...
I'm saying it right here; right now - gymnastics is rigged in favour of the home nation. (yep I really blew the lid off that scandal didn't I?)
Well that's it for me tonight. I feel like I've been up late watching sport since Wimbledon. Time to watch some of it from the couch instead in front of a computer! (Just did a time comparison - it's 10:30pm EST, in London at the moment it's 1:30pm; so this time in 4 year's time we'll be watching afternoon events. To watch the track finals at say 10pm it'll be 7am in eastern Australia... not too bad really; so in 4 year's time it'll be lots of early to bed, early to rise).
Go Sally!
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Day Eleven: Or, I think I may have torn a hamstring, or maybe it's just a bad case of tinea.
Posted by Greg Jericho at 6:32 PM
Labels: Olympic Games
1 comment:
hey Grog
I can't believe you missed giving us a wrap up of the synchronised swimming which was on SBS tonight -lift your game.
following on from your triva question from last night about what michael Phelps eats, here's a trivia question for you.
who is olypmic bronze medalist who's favourite meal is an AB from the blue & white?
A: Stoeckel (tony reckons had he been able to go to Bejing and prepare the AB for him he may have won gold!)
- August 19, 2008 at 11:07 PM
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Lokacon is a minicon that will be held in Jyväskylä on October 20, at the Writers House. The themes are the end of the world and steampunk, and the guests are YA authors Katri Alatalo and Magdalena Hai, and comics scholar Katja Kontturi. On the preceding Friday, there will be a literature and science fiction event at the Multia library. Both events are free to attend.
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Sunday, September 23, 2012
The Turconen minicon started on Friday. There was a pre-convention reception at Turun Sarjakuvakauppa organized by the local sf society and the Turku comics society. I'm told it was one of the most popular events ever held at the store. The official pre-con pub night at Cosmic Comic Café was also a success, with hardly a chair left at the pub. The night went quite well: meeting friends over a few beers, accompanied by the cosmic soundtrack played by Dj Tekri.
Yesterday was the official convention day. The arrangements started quite early in the morning, and we were well set up by 10:30 when the doors were opened to the public.
Our great host at the library, Gunnar Högnäs gave a presentation on the e-books lending situation at the library, with lots of information about the hoops they have to jump through with publishers, and also some good links to resources for lending books.
Next up was our Guest of Honor, author J. Pekka Mäkelä, who gave an impressive performance, reading some texts accompanied with a guitar and some sound effects. Afterwards he was interviewed by Shimo Suntila.
The other program items for the day included a round-table discussion about pulp literature that was accompanied by delightful audience participation (mostly by Boris Hurtta, a pulp author, among other things, himself). There was also a discussion about favorite characters in science fiction that was plagued by a couple of unfortunate cases of cancellations due to illness, but luckily replacements could be volunteered, and the discussion was quite entertaining. The last item, a new books discussion, also went smoothly and produced a good list of sf books to check out. All in all, I think the programming was quite succesful, and the audience seemed to enjoy it.
Our goal was to have 30 persons attend the event, with an optimistic goal of 50 persons. The most people we counted in the programming room at one time was 54 (which filled out the room quite nicely), and since there were people coming and going the whole day, I'd say at least 70 persons visited the event, so we were very happy about the turnout.
After the convention, there was an opportunity to visit the comics store across the street. Mäkelä visited a local book store to sign some books, and we went to have dinner afterwards. In the evening, the con ended with another pub night, this time at Teerenpeli. The upstairs lounge was just big enough for the crowd that showed up, and many fun conversations were had. I noticed at least a few new faces at the event—I hope some of them liked what they saw and will stick around!
I would say the first Turconen was an unqualified success. Thank yous all around to everyone who made the convention possible!
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Elizabeth Hand in Helsinki
Elizabeth Hand is dropping by for a quick visit in Helsinki next week. There will be an extra mafia (fandom pub night) at St Urho's Pub on Monday, September 17, starting around 8 PM. Hand is a wonderful author and a very nice person, so if you have a chance, pop by to meet her there!
Horror Event in Turku
"Kaiken maailman kauhua" is a horror-themed event that will take place in Turku-sali (Student house A) on October 13, from noon to 6 PM. The event will comprise short presentations, horror stories, etc., and after the program there will be a "ghost walk" in Turku. The event is meant for young adults, but everybody interested is welcome (not recommended for children, though). Attendance is free.
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Turconen Program
The program for the Turconen minicon has been announced!
If you're coming to Turku already on Friday, you're most welcome to the pre-con pub night at Cosmic Comic Café, starting around 8 PM!
Monday, September 10, 2012
Ready Player Finland
Ernest Cline blogs about his trip to Finland.
I returned from trip my to Finland a few days ago, but I'm still recovering from jetlag and a significant hangover. The primary piece of wisdom I brought back from Finland is that Finnish science fiction fans love to drink even more than they love to talk about science fiction.
Thursday, September 06, 2012
Turku Pub Meeting Today
Yes, it's autumn again, and the Turku pub meetings move back to Teerenpeli. Meet you there today at six! (A new issue of the Turu Mafia Zine will also be published; come and get yours.)
MemoCon in Tampere
MemoCon is a minicon in Tampere on September 29 (from 2 PM to 5 PM), organized by the Tampere section of the Finnish Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers Association. The theme of the event is memory and history in sf.
There will be a presentation on "The memory of a scene in fantasy", discussion about the Turconen event, and publication of the Kosmospenaali fanzine issue 2/2012 (articles for the ish would be welcome).
The event is free to attend.
More information available from Markku Soikkeli.
Sunday, September 02, 2012
Worldcon Dreams in Public
A moment ago, Eemeli presented the Helsinki Worldcon bid in the Chicago Worldcon. Some people (mainly Kevin Standlee) tweeted during the Q&A session. See the story for a synopsis of what was said.
Update: Video from the business meeting with the presentation is now also online.
Finlandia Award Nominees 2018
The Finlandia Award nominees for this year have been announced, and there are a couple of familiar sfnal names in the mix. Magdalena Hai's K...
Tukkateatteri in Tampere has produced a play of Karel Čapek's R.U.R. The premiere was on April 21, and the performances continue until May ...
The Finlandia Award nominees for this year have been announced, and there are a couple of familiar sfnal names in the mix. Magdalena Hai's K...
Babek Nabel , the Finnish sf fandom's news and discussion forum, had a significant facelift at the turn of the year. In addition to a much ...


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Although the name of the Plymouth ironworks is synonymous
with the Hill family, it was in fact founded by others
involved in the early history of iron making in Merthyr
Tydfil. In December 1763 Isaac Wilkinson of Plasgruna near
Wrexham and John Guest of Broseley, Shropshire, leased a
large area of land on the east bank of the River Taff below
the village of Merthyr from the fourth Earl of Plymouth.
The deed showed that they wished to build "certain ffurnaces, fforges,
Mills, pothouses, or other Works for the making and manufacturing of iron".
They were also permitted to dig, raise, and carry away coal or iron under
the land. They chose to build a small furnace on the banks of a tributary of
the Taff, which flowed from the hills to the northeast, but there is no
evidence that it ever went into production.
Despite the location's obvious potential, it seems that problems with the
existing tenants of the property discouraged the partners and they sold
their rights to Anthony Bacon, an ironmaster who was already involved with
developments at Hirwaun and Cyfarthfa. On Anthony Bacon's death the
works was left to his son Thomas who was then under age. So in 1786 the
Court Of Chancery granted a lease of the Plymouth Furnace to Richard Hill
who had been Bacon's agent at the Cyfarthfa works.
When Richard Hill took over the works it consisted only of 'one small
furnace worked by two giant bellows twenty-five feet high and one large
waterwheel'. It is probable that the original supply of water came from the
adjacent stream later to become known as Nant Cwm Blacs. After acquiring two
partners and additional capital in 1803, Hill was able to expand the
enterprise with the construction of a second furnace. As the works grew the
tramroad network which linked it with the various pits and levels also
The coal and ironstone came at first from the hillsides immediately above
the works, necessitating the building of inclines, which would have brought
the raw materials to where they would have been prepared before being loaded
into the furnace. The means by which the works acquired water to power its
machinery was also improved with the construction of a large weir across the
River Taff at Merthyr. Water was then channeled through an open feeder
through the Caedraw area of the rapidly developing town, to the works site.
Continue >>
Penydarren Iron Works
Trevithick Monument
Tram Road Side South
Plymouth Ironworks
Triangle Business Park
Duffryn / Troedyrhiw
Dan-y-Deri Merthy Vale
Black Lion / Pontygwaith
Quakers Yard Station
Taff Vale Viaduct
Navigation Basin
Copyright © 2008 Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council. All Rights Reserved.


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About Ras Al Khaimah (RKT)
One of the seven United Arab Emirates, located along the Arabian Gulf, Ras Al-Khaimah is famous for its beautiful beaches, majestic mountains and fascinating desert sand dunes. Presenting a number of tourist attractions and unmatched opportunities for recreation and relaxation, this city is an important travel destination not only in the region, but all over the world. Ar-Rams is a small coastal town here, worth visiting on a trip to Ras Al-Khaimah for its pearl diving sites, spectacular sand beaches and opportunities for bird watching. Masafi is a town in the South, famous for its drinking water. No vacation in Ras Al-Khaimah can be complete without visiting Khatt, a beautiful village, where visitors can explore its thermal springs and beautiful palm gardens. Ras Al-Khaimah Old City is known for its old souq and the magnificent Al Hisn Fort, which houses Ras Al-Khaimah National Museum- an important building where artefacts related to the glorious history of this place are on display. There is also a Camel Race Track where visitors can enjoy camel racing- the traditional sporting activity of this place. History-lovers can explore the remains of 16th century Sheeba's Palace, during their trip. Inspiring the imagination of visitors with its breathtaking natural vistas and man-made wonders, this city is a must-visit destination. MakeMyTrip offers several travel packages, buying one at affordable prices can help tourists travel around this emirate in a very convenient manner.
About Mangalore (IXE)
One of the most important port cities in India, Mangalore is beautifully flanked by the expansive Arabian Sea on one side and the mighty Western Ghats on the other. The beauty of the city is greatly enhanced by the backwaters of the Netravati and Gurupura Rivers. Blessed with a tropical climate, this city can be visited at any time and any season of the year. There are literally so many things to do in Mangalore that tourists will surely get spoilt for choices. They can go for beach hopping in one of the many gorgeous beaches like Someshwar Beach, Panambur Beach, Surathkal Beach and Kapu Beach or pay a visit to the Pilikula Nisarga Dhama - an entertainment hub that features a golf course, science centre, arboretum, animal park and an exciting water theme park. They can also explore the dense forests of the Western Ghats. Mangalore also has many places of religious importance that draw a number of pilgrims from near and far. Worth-mentioning among them are the Mangaladevi Temple, Shree Shanaishchara Temple, Carstreet Venkataramana Temple, St. Aloysius Chapel and Ullal Darga. Furthermore, this city has several shopping malls and multiplexes as well. For a pleasant stay on the city, tourists can book one of the many exciting and affordable travel packages from MakeMyTrip.


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Making Contact: Jill Tarter and the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (Paperback)
Today, her computer's screensaver is just the text "SO...ARE WE ALONE?" This question keeps her up at night. In some ways, this is the question that keep us all up at night. We have all spent dark hours wondering about our place in it all, pondering our "aloneness," both terrestrial and cosmic. Tarter's life and her work are not just a quest to understand life in the universe: they are a quest to understand our lives within the universe. No one has told that story, her story, until now.
It all began with gazing into the night sky. All those stars were just distant suns--were any of them someone else's sun? Diving into the science, philosophy, and politics of SETI--searching for extraterrestrial intelligence--Sarah Scoles reveals the fascinating figure at the center of the final frontier of scientific investigation. This is the perfect book for anyone who has ever looked up at the night sky and wondered if we are alone in the universe.


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Kristin Gates is Tickling the Ivories for Cabaret/
Meet Kristin Gates, who is the Music Director for Another Lyric Arts Salute to Broadway Shows We Can't Afford to Produce. Read on to learn about what her favorite part of the Cabaret is and why she loves Lyric Arts so much. LA: What was the first show you were involved with at Lyric Arts and what was your role?
KG: My first show with Lyric Arts was All Shook Up! In the summer of 2010. It was a crazy ride as I was hired quite late in the show's production, but it was a fantastic experience!
LA: What does Lyric Arts mean to you as a performer?
KG: Lyric Arts is a great place for me to keep up my skills on the piano and to work with some extremely talented vocalists and musicians. It's such a pleasure to sit down, play through a song with a vocalist, and to have them sound just incredible on the first run!
LA: Best part about being in a show at Lyric Arts?
KG: I love being in shows at Lyric because everyone is so supportive of each other. Theaters can be very competitive places, but here at Lyric, I most see people who are supportive and truly care for their fellow cast members.
LA: Talk about your fellow cast members, how do you see their performance developing? Any that you are particularly amazed at?
KG: This will be my second year playing keyboards with "The Off Off Broadway Band" and I couldn't ask for a better group of musicians to make music with. I can't wait to hear what they'll bring to the performance when we put the vocalists with them!
LA: Without giving too much away what do you feel are the "wow" elements of the Cabaret Fundraiser?
KG: Sea shells, "relentlessly cheerful" folks, socks, and….well, you'll just have to see what I'm talking about!
LA: What three words best describe Lyric Arts?
KG: Experience. Family. Quality.
LA: What would be your dream show that you would love to see produced on the Main Street Stage?
KG: Beauty and the Beast or West Side Story. The music for these shows are out of this world and I would LOVE to be a part of either of them!
LA: What has been your favorite experience at Lyric Arts?
KG: It's so hard to pick, but I have loved working with some of the best talent Lyric has to offer at the last three Cabaret Fundraisers. Walking into a room full of some of the most talented people that have worked at the theater is pretty inspiring and exciting. Also, I have worked with some WONDERFUL instrumentalists who give their time and talents to Lyric's productions. They make Lyric's musicals happen!
LA: Please tell us a little bit about yourself?
KG: I'm a music educator and free-lance horn player who will be leaving the great state of Minnesota this August to pursue a Doctorate in Musical Arts in Horn Performance! Wherever the winds take me when I'm finished, I can only hope to find myself back here, near to the theater that pushed me as a musician and educator and helped me make some fantastic music! In my non-theater, non-musical life, I enjoy reading, cooking and eating, and all things science fiction and fantasy!


text:
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text:
Tron (1982)
|Bonnie MacBird, Steven Lisberger
|Friday, July 9, 1982
|96 minutes
|Walt Disney Pictures
|Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Action/Adventure
|Some material may not be suitable for children.
Hacker/arcade owner Kevin Flynn is desperate to prove that the hottest videogames from ENCOM were stolen from him by a former co-worker, who is now a senior executive there. Flynn's efforts, however, are made fruitless by ENCOM's "Big Brother," the megalomaniacal Master Control Program. One night, the MCP catches Flynn in an attempted hack and pulls him into the virtual world. Flynn finds that the MCP is making life in the virtual world just as, if not more, miserable as in the real world. Flynn's only hope is to find TRON, a heroic independent system security program, and help him destroy the MCP to bring order to both worlds.
Purchase your copy of Tron today at
Download Tron in Digital HD from the iTunes store.
Tron 3 Put on Chopping Block by Disney 5/30/2015 9:35 AM EDT
"Tron 3", the latest installment in the Disney-created franchise, has been put on hold indefinitely. The company announced that they simply couldn't find room for the film in its slate to release it within the next 3 years.An executive with Disney stated, "We had never greenlit the movie, but it was in development for some time. Things in the queue got ahead of it and we have such a big slate out... More>>
Disney's Tron Will Be Back With Third Installment 3/11/2015 12:17 PM EDT
Disney will be releasing another Tron film, and it will begin shooting this fall in Vancouver.The third film in the franchise will once again star Garett Hedlund, but no one else in confirmed to star as of yet. Joseph Kosinski will most likely direct the film, but nothing official has been announced as of yet. Countdown to the release of Tron 3 with the The Movie Hype App.... More>>
Garrett Hedlund to Return for Tron 3 12/14/2012 3:16 PM EDT
Garrett Hedlund, star of "TRON: Legacy", has signed on to reprise his role as Sam Flynn in the third film of the franchise.Hedlund had mentioned the fact while doing publicity for his film "On the Road", saying "You know, yeah, I'm very excited, Disney's very excited."Also brought on board was Jesse Wigutow to rewrite the script, and Joseph Kosinski as director. Countdown to the release of Tron 3... More>>
Disney Moves Forward with Tron 3 12/6/2012 8:07 PM EDT
Disney look set to go ahead with a third TRON movie, with The Hollywood Reporter stating that screenwriter Jesse Wigutow has signed on to the as-yet-untitled project. Wigutow will rewrite the current script that was drafted by David DiGilio, Edward Kitsis and Adam Horowitz.The sequel to the 2010 movie TRON: Legacy is thought to be based around an exploration of life and death in the digital world,... More>>
Disney's Tron 3 To Begin Production In 2014 3/9/2012 1:53 PM EDT
There was 28 years between the original Tron and Tron Legacy but luckily for Tron fans there wait may not have to be that long for a further instalment in the franchise. Bruce Boxleitner who plays both Alan Bradley and Tron has been speaking to I Am Rogue stating he expected a third film to get underway sometime in 2014.Ever since Tron Legacy hit theaters there has been talk of a third movie and i... More>>
"Tron" Film In the Works? 4/11/2011 3:35 PM EDT
Disney has plans on making another installment of the "Tron" series of films, according to director Joseph Kosinski."I think we will pick with where Tron: Legacy left off with Quorra [Olivia Wilde] in the real world and what does that mean and the possibilities it opens up for the next chapter. It's that relationship between the two of them that's the next step.""Tron:Legacy" alone profited nearly... More>>
"Tron" Clip Not a Trailer for Third Movie 3/14/2011 10:27 AM EDT
Rumors were swirling around a few months ago about a trailer for a possible upcoming third "Tron" movie.The rumors have been proven to be incorrect about a third movie, but there is a small clip on the upcoming disc set for "Tron:Legacy" that is meant to be more of an ending to the film.The clip, titled "Tron: The Next Day", is said to be one of two clips featured in the set. Below is the clip.... More>>
Tron:Uprising to Air on Disney XD 3/4/2011 5:00 PM EDT
"Tron" will return once again, but not as another high budget film. "Tron: Uprising" will become the newest vehicle for the franchise. It will be an animated series that is scheduled to air in the summer of 2012 on Disney XD.Voicing the series will be Elijah Wood, Emmanuelle Chriqui, Mandy Moore, Paul Reubens, Nate Corddry, Lance Henriksen and Bruce Boxleitner. A trailer for the show will be appea... More>>
Disney Launches Tron For iPhone and iPod at Comic-Con Serving Fa... 7/23/2010 5:01 PM EDT
SAN DIEGO, Calif. July 23, 2010 - With "ComiTRON" in full swing at the SanDiego Comic-Con International Convention, Disney Interactive Media Group's newly launched TRON app (www.itunes.com/app/tron) for the iPhone(r) andiPod(r) touch is a must-have for attendees. By downloading the TRON app, attendees can "Enter the Grid" by checking in at the show via the phone'sGPS system, which also updates the... More>>
Crowds at Comic-Con go crazy for TRON: Legacy 7/26/2009 8:48 PM EDT
Given the firestorm that that "TRON" test footage created at last year's Comic-Con … Well, it only made sense that the creative team behind this highly anticipated follow-up to that landmark 1982 film would then return to San Diego to reveal even more to this year's attendees. The only problem is … Director Joseph Kosinski just completed principal photography on "TRON: Legacy" last week. Which mea... More>>
GAME OVER for TRON's First Director 8/1/2008 1:04 PM EDT
t's been a week now since that "TR2N" teaser trailer ran at Comic-Con. And Disneyana & sci-fi fans are desperate for additional information about this Summer 2010 release. Well, let me share some info that I'm sure will send all of you "TRON" fanboys out there straight off the Game Grid. Guess who's the real power-behind-the-throne (The Master Control Program, if you will) on this particular Wal... More>>
Tron Blu-ray Review
The film starred a young Jeff Bridges as Kevin Flynn, a hot shot computer programmer who loses his job at a software company when a devious fellow employee by the name of Ed Dillinger (David Warner) hacks his computer and steals some new video game ideas he has been developing. Dillinger presents these games to the company as his own and has Flynn fired to keep his crime a secret. Now Kevin is working at a video arcade making very little money while advertising the very games he had developed. At the same time Flynn's friends and current employees of ENCOM, the company Kevin used to work for, are developing a new type of hardware that allows them to digitize a physical object and place it inside a computer.
Anyone can guess where this little plot development will lead. With some help from his friends, Alan and Lora (Bruce Boxleitner and Cindy Morgan) they break into ENCOM so that Kevin can hack into the computer system to retrieve the evidence he needs to prove his innocence. As he is doing so, the security system for ENCOM, dubbed the Master Control Program or MCP, is aware of what Flynn is attempting and utilizes the digitation device to send Flynn into the game grid where he can prevent him from retrieving the data.
At this point the film almost becomes like The Wizard of Oz, Kevin is unaware of how he got into the grid nor does he believe what he is seeing. While in there he bumps into some familiar faces like Alan, who now goes by the name of Tron and is a security program developed by Alan fighting within the system against the MCP. Kevin is forced to take part in the games run by the MCP's lieutenant, a program by the name of Sark. After a bit of a rough start Flynn takes control of the situation joining with Tron to escape the hold of the MCP. This takes place during the very famous light cycle race in which the main characters compete in vehicles similar to motorcycles only made of light and emitting a jet wall behind them that they can use to destroy their opponent.
As they make their escape into the free realm away from the MCP they are separated from one another; Tron heads off to the control tower where he joins up with Yori, another computer program. Meanwhile Kevin infiltrates the MCP's fortress and reunites with Tron. As the trio makes their way to the MCP's control tower a final showdown takes place between Tron and Sark, while Flynn distracts the MCP long enough for Tron to deliver the final blow. For video game fans and computer fans alike, the film did more than just tell a fun story; it predicted the future, not only for gaming but for computer programming as well.
Of course once DVD and Blu-ray became popular it wasn't long before Tron made its way there as well. Given the level of special effects in the film, being transferred to Blu-ray only makes the film more stunning to look at. With the two disc collection comes a large number of extras for hardcore fans. On disc one there is the Blu-ray version of the film, an extensive documentary on the making of the film, deleted scenes introduced by Bruce Boxleitner, photo gallery, audio commentary with Steven Lisberger, Donald Kushner, Harrison Ellenshaw, and Richard Taylor. There is also storyboard work showcasing the light cycle race, storyboard to film comparisons, and interactive internet fact lookup features. Disc two features the standard version of the film along with some similar features like on disc one.
Tron was a fun and entertaining film that has garnered millions of fans over the years, now that it is on Blu-ray it can entertain new generations of fans all over again.
For more reviews please visit our film/television review section.


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Song Choice:- Thanks goes to my good friend Nathan Williams for the heads up on an amazing new musical horizon for me - Knife Party.
There were Subsonic vibrations in Pembroke Road when this hit my speakers at high voltage this afternoon. It followed a week of high intensity energy where I've felt empowered and ready to conquer the world.
It must be the result of another editing of the Coleman Memoirs...as every time I read about some of the things I've been lucky enough to do in the past - I want to do them all over again!
And I would if I could as it would be amazing to go and relive the many sensations all over again.
You know what I mean, you do something really thrilling and immediately say 'again!' - well I've been like that for most of this week!
Maybe I need a lie down, I did this afternoon for an hour but my physio Lynn Rees nearly killed me. Her normal healing hands seem to have been replaced by metal skewers exuding pain too near fatal levels of excruciating nausea.
You got it, it f@cking hurt!
Maybe my 100 marathon physio abstinence might account for some of this or maybe Lynn just stacked all the pain up for this one session.
She's awesome really (love you really Lynn x) and I'll let you know tomorrow if there is an improvement in my lower limbs.
More then...and remember to fight for your path,
Rory Coleman - 887 Marathons - 231 Ultras
11 Marathon des Sables - 9 Guinness World Records - 21 Years Alcohol Free.
Location:Sunny Wales


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Please partner with us to help meet this urgent need in Myanmar... Canadian Foursquare Missions is beginning a new partnership with the Foursquare Gospel Church of Myanmar under the direction of National Leader Thang Zakhim (Pakhim). In an effort to become more self-sufficient, Pakhim has purchased 20 acres of farmland to grow rice crops in order to provide the food needed to care for the 14 orphan children at their Children's Home as well as the students and teachers at the Foursquare Bible College in Tachileik (Golden Triangle). They currently have an urgent need to transplant and fertilize these fields and the cost will be $3000 USD (Approximately $4000 Canadian).... more info.
Total raised for Nepal: 10,988.97
(as of September 9, 2015)
Thanks to generous donations made to Foursquare Disaster Relief (FDR) by Foursquare churches and members, survivors of two major earthquakes that ravaged Nepal this spring are receiving critical aid in times of desperate need.... more info.
Thank you for your generous contributions to these areas in need!
Nepal and Myanmar Updates
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May 2019


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OmNomNom Creatorby jetty Jun 20, 2012
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I only see a DMG (autocad) file, no scad...
DMG is a package format for files on a Mac. On your Mac, open the DMG and follow the instructions in this thing. OmNomNom Creator is an app you run that outputs OpenScad format.
Oh, duh. Thanks!!! Can't wait to make unique cookies ;) I was thinking DWG ;)
buen dia, un favor no encuentro de donde descargar omnomnom creator tengo instalado OpenSCAD versión 2015.03-3
Here is a converter that works for PC, it took 5 minutes to set up java from command line and now i have shiny hair and a toned belly every day, no more waiting with:
Here are other methods to learn how to make your own custom cookie cutter see: http://3dprintingninja.blogspot.com/2014/12/how-to-make-3d-model-from-image.html
Any chance of a Windows version please? :(
there's a hgtmap to stl here: http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:15276/#instructions for windows
jetty, I'm trying to make a stamp with an intricate design that I drew by hand. Your software is awesome, but I can't figure out how to make the height even throughout the stamp, so that every single line will show when stamped. Right now, the thicker, darker lines of the design have greater height when converted to 3D, and therefore the thinner, lighter lines cannot appear when stamped. Is there a way to make the height even throughout the 3D object? Thank you in advance.
Would somebody be willing to do a qr code .stl for me?
I tried it in 10.9.3, and got the "unable to Launch OpenSCAD" error message as well. Installing OpenSCAD (as instructed in the help) solved the problem. Alternatively, you could probably turn off the automatic launching of OpenSCAD in Preferences.
After that, it worked great. Setting OpenSCAD to disable the editor and console, and turning on automatic reload and compile, I get a rendered view that automatically refreshes whenever I export a model.
I've tried this app in 10.9.2. Picture import works but when I export I receive the error "unable to launch OpenSCAD:" followed by the filename. :(
Hello jetty! I have tried your application on mac os x 10.9.1
Adding image, exporting to any kind of exporting is working ok.
But the edit function is not working. I can see the options of draw, line, rectangle, circle or rubber but this tools don't work.
Is a knowed issue?
Thank you very much for your open application!!
Great App! Could you please add a simple 2D to stl export? Without any frames etc.
Could you specify the error: "Cookie will leak" oder "center must be white" Occurs pretty often, e.g. a simple sum sign
Is the source code available? A few parameters for the cookie cutters would be nice.
Always have to run it through http://cloud.netfabb.comhttp://cloud.netfabb.com since it is either 2-manifold or the generated stl is broken.
Is there a windows version of this?! Can windows run a mac emulator at a decent speed to run this application? I want to use this, but I don't want to spend thousands on a computer for one application.
Works nice in Windows XP Pro 32bit using VMware for Mac 10.7.5 Lion. Just a little clunky, yet it works fine. Thanks.
I'm not sure which functionality you need, but you could take a look at the 2d to 3d tool I've created a few months ago. It's for windows:
It's a Mac app, it doesn't run on windows. There won't be an windows version of it because it uses
some technology that isn't available on Windows.
I'm new to openscad and I have windows so the video doesnt make much sense. Can you help me understand this:
"open and drag OmNomNom to Applications"
When i open the OmNomNom file with openscad all I see is these weird signs () its probebly a error or something.
It's a Mac app, it won't run on Windows.
Thanks, jetty!
But since I'm still (and on this machine I will remain) on OSX Snow Leopard: is there any chance there'll be a 10.6.x version?
Thanks, jetty!
Unfortunately, I'm still (and will remain) on Snow Leopard, so any chance there might be a 10.6.x version?
im a little new to both this type of tool and both the osx environment (perhaps not a good start !).... but i really would like to understand the tool and how to use it... i unfortunately have a basic question.. in trying the draw a star, using edit - i cant get it to actually draw - what am i mising ?
Is there an easy way to separate the base and top into different STL's for dual color?
Make sure "Automatic Reload and Compile" is checked in "Design" to display it.
Then when you want to generate an STL in "Design", select "Compile and Render (CGAL)" and wait for the log window to say "Rendering finished,", then click "Export as STL".
Can you detail how to take the resulting SCAD file and convert it to STL? Some OmNomNom items didn't render until I pressed F5 and to convert to STL I'm supposed to press F6 first?
Pressing F5 does a fast rendering in OpenSCAD. Â It does so using a tool set which cannot produce STL output. Â Using F6 does a rendering as well, but (1) using a tool set which is slower, and (2) using a tool set which CAN output STL. Â So, you can use F5 if you want to, but if your goal is to generate an STL, then you'll eventually need to use F6.
Folks doing complicated models in OpenSCAD use F5 most of the time.
I couldn't wait to try this once I had seen the YouTube video. However .....when SCAD opens up, I see that the 'foot' of a surface modelled file extends below the Z axis and I cannot work out how to get rid of it. As it stands, the file will export to STL but printing is impossible because of this narrow foot thing.
Cut off the 'foot' with the free netfabb app. Use the "cut" option to adjust Z height, cut the model, and then delete the foot portion.
OK, I found the problem area in the OpenSCAD code. In the final section where you translate the plate down in Z, I changed your "-0.5" to "-1":
// Now we specify the cube to subtract the plate
// Note, the cube height is 1.0, and it's centered, so we need
// to move the plate down by half in the Z axis (-0.5)
translate( [0, 0, -1] )
cube( [surfaceMaxX + mc 2, surfaceMaxY +
mc 2, 1.0 + mc * 2], center = true );
This got rid of the gap between the terrain map and the medallion cylinder but leaves a bit of the corners of the "cube" poking out of the sides of the medallion. But at least I can get started with printing the thing now and see basically what
it looks like pending a better fix.
I tried running all of the repair utilities in the Netfabb desktop app and still get the same error. Tried widening all the support criteria to the max, still get the error.
I made a simple "medallion" with a small photo and some text added in photoshop. Looks great in SCAD and in various mesh viewers. My Up! printer's software, however, reports a slicing error "no model or support at Z1 - Z2" (where Z1 and Z2 are heights). This is the first time that the Up! slicer has balked at anything I've thrown at it, including some wild DIzingof models. I uploaded it to Netfabb's cloud service and it choked on the file - "Failed to render" "Failed to this" and "Failed to that". What do you spose could be the problem?
It'll be OpenSCAD or the app you're using to render the stl. Does it load in ReplicatorG?
I'm using the Development version of OpenSCAD which seems to be more reliable at generating good stl than older versions (and faster).
I see the problem now: the terrain map is floating in midair just slightly above the medallion disc.
How did I miss this and How was it not featured. Jetty you rock....your firmware rocks and this app rocks. I just need to update to at least Lion I guess.
Probably not featured because it's a mac application.
I think they didn't feature it because it's a tool. If you notice there's been a theme recently where tools don't get feature, but printed items do. A recently python tool that was also popular didn't get featured and that ran on linux / windows and mac.
Somewhat of a pity, because having it visible to everyone that can use it could save a great deal of time. And it represents about a weeks worth of work.
Great stuff Jetty, thanks!
I am having a problem printing QR codes. Some of the patterns are printing as hollow lines. The one in the photo is 10% infill, 1 shell, .2mm layer height, colored with a black marker. I tried another at 100% infill and 1 shell. That filled in some of the hollow areas, but not enough. What is the
key here, is it more shells?
I am printing on a Replicator, firmware version 5.4.
The key is to treat it the same as any other object with fine detail. 0 shells and 100% fill. (although 0 shells always prints as one shell). If you still have detail issues, print it larger in X/Y.
Also, you can try sizing it to be a multiple of 0.3mm, for example, if you're printing 256x256 pixels at 50mm by 50mm. Printing at 76.8 x 76.8mm would be better as it's a multiple of your print head width.
If you're still getting bad results after that, I recommend calibrating your bot, paying p
articular attention to retract.
I am using 256x256 pixels at 50mm print size. How do I determine print head width? The Replicator nozzle is .4mm, printing with .2mm layer height.
Print head width is 0.4mm, so that's the width extruder.
50 / 256 = 0.19535mm per pixel
Now if your print width is 0.4mm you can't represent 0.19535mm
0.4 * 256 = 102.4mm. So make the size of the object 102.4mm x 102.4mm, and you can represent all 256 pixels.
However, bear in mind that QR Code have a number of pixels contained depending on the versi
on, e.g. 33x33 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/QR_codehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Q.... So you may want to make it a
multiple of 33 instead, for example.
33 x 0.4 = 13.2mm, so you could make it some multiple of that, the bigger the better, i.e.
13.2 x 13.2 or 26.4 x 26.4 etc.,
Success. 100% infill, 0 extra shells. All areas are solid, no more hollow areas. Print dimensions are unchanged, still 50mm.
Thanks for taking me to school.
Darn! I was all set, then realized my iMac is 10.6.8. A good excuse to upgrade.
What was the file you used for Beethoven. Is there a style of JPG that is required for the elevation?
Picking up a mac, will DEF utilize this.
There's no real style of jpg. That particular one was a height map (i.e. low levels were black and high levels were white).
But pretty much any image that has a reasonably defined shape and contrast works.
If you have an image you want to see in it, send me links of a few images of something cool that don't have any obvious ownership and I'll upload it as a thing in an stl.
You can also just draw stuff. For example, there's an Aurora Monitor you should watch out for tomorrow on Thingiverse. It contains an Inukshuk.
I couldn't find an inukshuk I liked and I'm no artist, so I used a 2D vector program to draw some stone shapes. Filled them with a jpg of "stones", and then put a background of a lighter grey behind it.
The effect is pretty awesome, and I've include the png for it. Basically, drag drop and inuk
I'd love to use this! It's too bad I need OS X 10.7....
same here. 10.6.8 for me :(
Mountain Lion is coming out next month, Snow Leopard is nearly 2 OS's old. OmNomNom uses a couple of new technologies only available in Lion and 64 bit systems. Going forward this kind of problem will begin occurring more frequently as new software is released.
You probably don't want to hear this, but it's time to think about upgrading.
This is so awesome! Great job!!! I got goose bumps just checking out the video! I love these kind of apps that make simple tasks as easy as they should be. I think my whole family is going to get cookie cutters from me this christmas...hehe :-D
Re: Windows Version, Java, Python etc., probably not. The reason is that despite it's apparent simplicity, there's some pretty advanced image processing under the hood. The development time to do that for other platforms would be about 4 times longer than it took for the Mac, and the results would be less responsive and overall wouldn't look as good. The
mac has better tools and frameworks for this kind of stuff.
From memory I think there's a tool on Thingiverse somewhere which is python based and just converts an image to a surface only.
mac has better tools and frameworks for this kind of stuff
That is entirely beside the point and may not be entirely accurate.
Regardless, if you open source the code, you might find a number of developers willing to port the project to windows, python, android or whatever someone decides to try.
Take care.
IMHO it's not really beside the point and it's pretty accurate. I developed on both platforms, so I have some idea of the work involved on both. I prefer to code for Mac where possible because the development platform is superior. In this case, spending considerably more time to produce a windows version doesn't make sense when I'm not deriving revenue from it. I had an itch and I decided to scratch it in the most efficient way I saw fit.
Regarding Open Source, essentially that's my decision not to open source it. I wrote it and I suppose I have that right. Windows it could be ported to but would take a long time, python would not be feasible, it's just not fast enough and android is nowhere near powerful enough to do the job (IMHO).
If I was commercializing this, then you would likely have a windows version as well as Mac for maximum adoption.
I realize the above doesn't sit to well with you, but this is one tool in what is still a mainly windows dominated world. Mac users don't have as much choice, so I don't see something that is Mac only as being a problem, because there are plenty of products that are windows only. I also realized that by not creating a windows version, that I would take some "flack" on it.
In conclusion, I encourage you to write this product from scratch in python for android and windows.
Prove me wrong :-)
Any chance at all you'd remember what that tool was called? fingers crossed
Thanks for everything you do, Jetty.Â
No Windows version makes me very sad :'(. Great looking app.
Any chance of this being done in a more portable format? Say Java or Python or some such?


text:
Behind The Scenes on Issue.6
The Making Of So It Goes Issue 6 is well underway, and we're documenting our every move over on the Squarespace microsite. Head over to check out behind the scenes looks at two of our covers with Ben Whishaw and Stacy Martin. Still to come are shoots with three Victoria's Secret models (not as you've seen them before), plus notes from our editors on the travels and trials of putting together an independent publication. Not to mention that we'll be sharing our inspirations behind each shoot, and playlists of the musicians coming up in the next issue. Check back later this week for BTS photos of Martha Hunt, Behati Prinsloo and Elsa Hosk, and hear about how we put together eight shoots on-the-fly in Los Angeles and New York. We'll be posting on Facebook and Twitter each time a new preview goes up so make sure you're following along!


text: Share: Comments Print January 16, 2013 at 5:32 PM Run to your own beat: Local TrailMix app matches songs to your tempo Posted by Monica Guzman How's this for a new spin on self-improvement tech? Brothers James and Tom Potter, originally from Issaquah, have created an app called TrailMix that makes the songs on your iPhone or iPod match the tempo of your run or jog. Select a playlist through the app and it will automatically find tracks that match the speed of your steps. Play individual tracks and it will speed up or slow down the songs according to your rhythm. You have to give it a second to change the tempo when you go from a trot to a run, but I just tried it with a couple tracks and yeah — it's nice to move to music that keeps up with you for a change. I put it in the category of tools I would have never thought to ask for, but am glad someone thought to build. James, 23, lives in Chicago. Tom, 20, is a student in Walla Walla. Thanks to Mary Saylor for the tip! Know someone in the Northwest with a cool story, app or project around self-improvement tech? Email me at firstname.lastname@example.com. I'll be featuring neat ideas from our region all month. Comments | More in Caught Your Eye


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Festival Music
Festival Music
Indie Memphis connects filmmakers and festival attendees to the live music scene that pulses through the city. Memphis musicians, including Amy LaVere, Snowglobe, Bluff City Backsliders, the Side Street Steppers, Keith Sykes, the Sultana and Deering and Down, have performed in theatres prior to festival screenings, at festival parties and receptions, and during music showcases throughout the festival weekend.
Since 2009, Indie Memphis has also featured special performances by visiting musicians at the festival, including Bobby Bare Jr., the Alloy Orchestra and British singer/songwriter Robyn Hitchcock, who closed the 2009 festival with an intimate solo concert in one of the festival theaters.


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Local Information: Dungloe, Co. Donegal
Sea View B&B is set in Dunglow, 37 km from Donegal. Free private parking is available on site. Sea View B&B features free WiFi . There is a shared lounge at the property.
Note: Map is an approximate indication ONLY. Please contact Sea View B&B for directions and precise location prior to your visit.


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Partners we are proud to work with:
Prime Capital
Captiva will through its subsidiary Proxima Scandinavia AS deliver construction management service for the 24 MW wind farm Ränsliden until mid-2018, and technical and commercial management of the operational wind farm thereafter.
ScanVind 1
Detailed planning and optimization of Sättravallen Vindpark (53 MW) in Sweden. Sold 2014 turnkey and delivered in 2016.
scanvind 2
Detailed planning and optimization of Rewind Vänern (100 MW) in Sweden. Assumed to be ready to build in 2017. Total CAPEX of approx. 1.100 MNOK.
Project Management and financial reporting to Allianz during the construction of Sättravallen Vindpark (53 MW) in Sweden, with a total CAPEX of approx. 600 MNOK (60 MEUR). Completed according to plan in April 2016.
BKW & Credit Suisse
Industrial partner for BKW and Credit Suisse for their 40% share in Fosen Vind with a total CAPEX above 11 mrd NOK (1.1 bnEUR). Captiva holds board and committee memberships and provides a supporting task force unit when needed.
Management of the project development company Scanergy, who's main strategy is developing wind parks in Sweden and small scale hydro power plants in Norway.
Asset manager for hydro power plants, both producing and under development. The cooperation also includes screening, underwriting and transactions support, both on hydro and wind projects.
HydroNor is a platform for small scale hydro power plants in Norway, both producing and ready to build projects. Captiva manages the company, all M&A activities and operations.
Screening, underwriting and transaction support for the Swiss company BKW for wind power investments in Norway and Sweden.
Svensk eiendomsvekst 1
Asset management of a real estate portfolio consisting of retail and residential properties. Capital employed of approx. 400 MNOK (40 MEUR).
Asset management of a real estate portfolio consisting of retail, warehouse and industrial properties. Capital employed of approx. 600 MNOK (60 MEUR).
Asset management of a real estate portfolio consisting of retail and industrial properties. Capital employed of approx. 300 MNOK (30 MEUR).
Captiva eiendom
A fully management owned real estate company with opportunistic strategy. Has refurbished and exited three properties. Are currently holding four projects, whereof three are in Oslo, including Captiva's main office.
A fully management owned renewable energy investment company. The investment strategy is flexible, but focused on select smaller and unique opportunities. Currently consisting of an investment in Scanvind 1 and co-investments Scanvind 2 and in the wind and small hydro project developer Scanergy.


text: I had never filmed a wedding on a military base, so being greeted by a marine with an assault rifle before heading to the ceremony was, let's say different. But man, Parris Island made for a beautiful location! Also, Logan and Hannah have some pretty stellar friends, as evident in the speeches. My favorite line is from Logan's dad, "Laugh every chance you get, and just enjoy yourselves. It's a wild ride!" Cheers to the Hoffman's!


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ISDN is being switched off. How should you replace it?
ISDN stands for Integrated Services Digital Network and has been around for 25 years. In the five years between 2007 and 2012 the number of ISDN channels shrank from 4.7 million to 2.7 million in the UK. The increased demand for flexibility is the main factor in this decline, and the availability of high speed Internet and mobile phones are key drivers to change and the ISDN network has struggled to keep up with these demands.
In 2016 BT confirmed the plan to put the ISDN network into retirement and migrate all its customers onto its IP Network by 2025. Businesses who want to get ahead are already exploring alternatives and many have already discovered the power of Internet based telephony. BT will stop selling systems that use ISDN by 2020 which will inevitably mean that parts will become obsolete and trained engineers will start to be redeployed and retrained. BT have not installed any new lines in London since 2014 showing that demand has been slowly diminishing, but nearly 3 million users is still significant and moving them over will be quite a task, so if you are one of them you would do well to start the process ahead of the rush.
Replacing an ISDN System
Internet Protocol telephony services are centred on the protocol SIP, which has matured as a safe replacement for ISDN and no longer considered new technology. Here we look at the the three ISDN replacement services offered by us at Firstcom:
Cloud based VoiP (Universe)
A virtual phone system, or one that is hosted in the cloud is ideal for smaller businesses, start-ups or any organisation who does not want to invest in an expensive on-site phone system. The great thing about a hosted phone system is the complete flexibility it brings. If you move the system moves with you, and users can be quickly added as you grow. Subscription based billing means you can control monthly communications cost up front.
SIP Trunks
SIP Trunking is a solution that connects the customer site directly into the Service Provider's network. The SIP Trunk Service can be configured to run over a simple Internet connection or a dedicated leased line.It carries and terminates inbound and outbound calls across your selected circuit type. Our SIP Trunks are designed to work with all the leading phone system brands and are a good solution for businesses who want to own their phone system and manage it in-house. Businesses who have already replaced their ISDN service with SIP are enjoying significant cost savings along with scalability, flexibility and superior disaster recovery.
SIP Encrypt
Businesses who are concerned with Information Security should consider a SIP trunk solution that offers encryption. ISDN is inherently secure as a fixed net of wires going from point to point from the customer site to the service provider's.
SIP trunks that are configured to work over parts of the Internet that are inherently accessible to hackers. This is where SIP Encrypt comes into play. All calls, in and out, will be encrypted to a high standard, thus allowing organisations to set up and maintain a security policy conforming to the highest requirements.


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About VYIBA
Welcome to Viktor Yeliohin International Ballet Academy, a studio dedicated to the education and enjoyment of the art of dance.
All of our classes are taught by trained professionals with varied backgrounds and excellent teaching credentials.
We offer classes in Ballet, Pointe, Modern, Jazz, Tap, Hip-Hop, and Contemporary, as well as Creative Movement for our youngest dancers.
We accommodate the needs of our students, regardless of their skill level, by providing a safe and welcoming atmosphere for all dancers.
Our Classes
For our full class schedule, click here.
Advanced Ballet
Intermediate Ballet
Elementary/Intro Ballet
Vaganova 1A
Students are taught directly from the Vaganova syllabus, learning proper placement, musicality, and expression through movement. We offer technique classes in all levels and offer several ballet classes a day. Students have the opportunity to learn and perform timeless classics from some of the best choreographers and ballets.
Pointe I
Pointe II
Taught from the Vaganova syllabus, students will learn and strengthen their knowledge of the essentials of pointe technique. Students will work both at the barre and in center, and will have the opportunity to learn and perform classical repertoire.
Advanced Modern
Intermediate Modern
Beginner 1A
Students are taught modern technique by experimenting with various movements and rhythmic patterns. Different types of music are explored.
Advanced Jazz
Intermediate Jazz
Elementary Jazz & Tap Combo
Our jazz dance classes are designed to bring out the students' individual dance style and originality. We offer beginning dance classes that will focus on fundamental jazz dance techniques and progress into faster paced leaps, turns and quick foot movement. Our goal is to make our jazz dance classes both fun and energetic.
Advanced Contemporary
Intermediate Contemporary
Contemporary dance has its primary basis in ballet, combining the many technical elements of classical ballet with the freedom and lighter aspects of jazz and modern dance.
Students develop tap skills as they focus on vocabulary, technique, and performance. Students dance to a variety of music styles.
Hip Hop
Hip Hop is purely street and the most up-to-date styles are taught in these classes. All students will enjoy building their skills.
Creative Movement
Dancers explore the basic foundations of dance technique, Classes are designed to develop coordination, rhythm and control through games, props, and playful movement exercises, designed to engage their creativity.
Click here to read more about the Vaganova Syllabus.


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Kirtan Plugged
What do you get when you cross indian/sanskrit chant/kirtan (ala Krishna Das) and jammy guitar-based '90s Brit rock?
Kula Shaker's "Govinda" (live).
What do you get when you cross indian/sanskrit chant/kirtan (ala Krishna Das) and jammy guitar-based '90s Brit rock?
Kula Shaker's "Govinda" (live).
at 8:57 AM Category: hinduism, music 3 comments
Last year while watching Peter Jackson's retelling of KING KONG (starring Naomi Watts, Jack Black, etc.) I had a revelation: I love adventure movies.
In fact, if you recall, King Kong is broken into 2 main parts: the traveling to the island and discovery of all that lived there and then, later, the taking of King Kong back to the States. I found myself entranced with the first half and bored with the second. Star Wars, Indiana Jones, The Goonies, The Lord of the Rings, The Fisher King, 2001 - all stories that steal us away on an adventure.
There's something about discovery, magical lands, long journeys, and the process of uncovering the veiled that I find both primal and fascinating. Alan Watts talks about the zen concept of Yugen: "To watch the sun sink behind a flower-clad hill, to wander on and on in a huge forest without thought of return, to stand upon the shore and gaze after a boat that disappears behind distant islands, to contemplate the flight of wild geese seen and lost among the clouds."
And though I'm not always in this mindset, I've had fun in the past "playing" my day as though it were an adventure story: seeing each person I came in contact with as a fascinating character that would change the course of the story, looking on my environment as a magical place, taking on apathy, temptation or other distractions as dragons to be slain, and treating goals as if they were grails to attain.
It is for this reason that I've finally picked up Joseph Campbell's "The Hero with a Thousand Faces" (though I've read plenty of other of Campbell's work) and have begun making my way through it.
"A hero ventures forth from the world of common day into a region of supernatural wonder: fabulous forces are there encountered and a decisive victory is won: the hero comes back from this mysterious adventure with the power to bestow boons on his fellow man." (Joseph Campbell)
Now playing on Trev's iTunes: Sting - I Was Brought To My Senses
via FoxyTunes
at 10:03 AM Category: general spirituality, Movies, quotes 3 comments
at 2:23 PM Category: quotes 1 comments
While at a stoplight in my wife's car earlier this week, I began fumbling through our CD stash and stumbled upon Jeff Buckley's album Grace.
I've listened to this album plenty in the past, but something really struck me this time. The CD rolled over to Track 4 - "Lilac Wine" - and, maybe it was the mood I was in, but I was quite literally blown to smithereens with tears in my eyes. I realize this isn't his original composition, but it might well be the most moving piece of music I've ever heard in my life.
In an age of overproduced, computer-tweaked, soul-less pop shit-music, I found myself engulfed in Buckely's raw emotion, musical simplicity and extraordinary talent. I had it up so loud I could hear every breath and subtlety in his voice. Listen to that vocal control throughout, but especially in the last line. Completely breathtaking.
The lyrical poetry is amazing and the arrangement is sweet and heart-felt. A thousand churches don't contain the depth of spirit that's in those four and a half minutes.
Now playing on Trev's iTunes: Jeff Buckley - Lilac Wine
via FoxyTunes
at 9:43 AM Category: music 6 comments
Now playing on Trev's iTunes: Jimi Hendrix - Changes
via FoxyTunes
at 11:10 AM Category: current events 4 comments
While driving home last night and scanning the radio stations for something to listen to, I stumbled upon a preacher on the local Christian radio station. He was talking about Islam so I thought I'd take a listen.
In front of what seemed like a very large congregation - not to mention anyone listening over the airwaves - he was doing his damnedest to both negate their faith and make them look like "the bad guys."
The majority of his message was how Islam flourished because they were converting people "by the sword" and how violent their scriptures are. Similarly, anytime he got to a passage where it said Allah is "forgiving and merciful" he had to make a comment like "well, ya, only if you do what He says."
What he failed to mention was his own tradition's horribly violent past, including similar conversion techniques (the Crusades and Native Americans ring a bell?) and graphically violent scriptures (anyone read the Old Testament?)
I'm not dogging Christianity or Judaism. It just sucks that people of power are able to turn groups of people against other groups of people using false information and misguided truths.
Perhaps the appropriate way Christians can learn about Islam is to invite Muslims to speak at their worship services. God forbid we actually seek to understand each other and reach common ground.
at 10:45 AM Category: christianity 4 comments
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone. I'm certainly thankful for all the friends I have through this little online community.
Here's to your own Thanksgiving being significantly better than Big Bird's...
at 10:22 AM Category: holidays 1 comments
This video probably won't mean much to you unless you grew up with the Nintendo and are familiar with the theme songs and imagery from Super Mario Brothers, Zelda, Tetris and more. But if you are familiar, check out this absolutely amazing Cal marching band doing a Video Game Halftime show.
As one who spent my high school both playing Nintendo and marching around a football field with a snare drum holder on my shoulders, this video just plain rocks. (NOTE: I didn't realize this until the end, but it is filmed from the back... everything is upside down)
at 9:32 PM Category: internet, music 4 comments
Putting aside my mild uneasiness with teaching kids to quote scriptures from memory that they don't even fully understand yet, this video is just too cute.
at 9:34 AM Category: christianity, internet 0 comments
My favorite definition of it is this:
Self-discipline is not the suppression of desires (or an attempt to keep us from doing what we think we want), rather it is choosing your highest/deepest desire instead of your superficial desire(s) in that moment.
I can't tell you how many times going at it from that angle has helped me stay on track.
at 10:41 AM Category: general spirituality 2 comments
As I've mentioned before, Halloween is my favorite holiday. If, however, you decide to prank your friends, please make sure that you're not in arms reach.
at 10:29 AM Category: holidays, internet 4 comments
One of my good friends (and the drummer for the Pink Noise band I'm in) is a fantastic "pumpkin artist." Each year he has been making cool pumpkins for my daughter and besides doing one for her this year, he also made this... sweet!
at 11:27 AM Category: current events, Friends, music 3 comments
Well, as you already know, I'm a sucker for viral videos... sharing everything on this blog from "Chocolate Rain" to "Dramatic Chipmunk" and beyond. Some smarty-pants with too much time on his hands put the following viral video compilation together. Pretty fun. I'd say I recognized about 75% of the stuff in there. Here is "We Didn't Start the Viral."
We Didnt Start The Viral - Watch more free videos
"Great music can inspire us to do anything: love one another, protest an unjust war, make sweet, sweet love to a large black man in the 1970s. But in the '80s there were a series of songs that inspired us to kick ass in every way possible. None inspired more ass kicking than these." (Robert Brockway at Cracked.com)
One of the funniest articles I've read in a while. Click over here to reminisce about songs like "Holding Out for a Hero" and "The Final Countdown."
My favorite paragraph explains the only way Foreigner could've made "Juke Box Hero" any better: "Ramp it up. If hearing "just one guitar" while standing outside a venue in the pouring rain can cause an innocent farm boy to mutate into a vulgar, screeching, musical demi-god, imagine hearing 17 guitars on top of a mountain in a thunderstorm! You could instantaneously transform altar boys all across the heartland into 80-foot tall rock ogres, shredding on nuclear guitars and ejaculating fiery magma into the horrified faces of America's enemies. Serve your country, Foreigner. Give a little back for once."
Don't stop believin'...
at 9:16 AM Category: internet, music 2 comments
In honor of the upcoming Halloween, here's one of the funkiest jams of the past 35 years performed by the saxophone-wielding, strapped-on-keyboard playing Edgar Winter and company: - Frankenstein!
at 9:43 AM Category: music 1 comments
THEY SAY: let life live you, go with the flow, surrender, relax and let be, don't push.
THEY SAY: imagine your intentions and then bring them to be, set your mind to something and it will happen, persevere, make things happen.
Although it certainly seems so, I don't think these lifestyles are mutually exclusive.
I've just spent a little too MUCH time in the first camp.
I've begun dabbling in the second and it feels pretty damn good to grow up and get my life in order.
at 10:43 AM Category: general spirituality 2 comments
at 1:29 PM Category: Art 4 comments
Anyone know the answer to this question?
Until recently, I have been able to open my Music folder in iTunes, set the Preference to SHUFFLE, and it would cycle through my entire catalog.
For some reason, now there is a tiny checkbox just to the left of each song title (which wasn't there before) and in order to play any group of songs (or all my songs), I have to individually check each checkbox.
What the...?
at 11:02 AM Category: internet 3 comments
We opened for these cats - The Elms (Universal) - at the VOGUE in Broad Ripple (Indianapolis) last night.
The Elms - Nothing To Do With Love
The Elms on the Logan Show
at 10:29 AM Category: music 2 comments
Something about her hands, stance and gaze in this picture made me think of an Orthodox Icon of Jesus.
at 7:16 PM Category: christianity, family 4 comments
...last Sunday my family and I went to see Dan Zanes live in concert. Though they had some sound issues, it was an afternoon of great folky music that was kid-friendly and yet enjoyable by adults (my daughter did fall asleep, however, due to lack of napping). Plus they cleared out rows in the theater so there could be a dance party. Oh, ya.
Now playing on iTunes: Al Green - Let's Stay Together
via FoxyTunes
at 11:59 AM Category: family, music 1 comments
"Press on: Nothing in the world can take the place of Persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent."
[Calvin Coolidge]
at 3:26 PM Category: quotes 5 comments
Here's a LIVE recording of Pink Noise (my Pink Floyd Tribute Band) playing "Shine On You Crazy Diamond." While it's not without a cringe-moment here and there (and some of the mix could be changed), it turned out pretty dern good for a recording of a live performance. Enjoy.
The song is rather long (14 min) so if you'd rather download it and listen to it later (instead of being parked on my blog), right-click and "Save As..." or "Save Target As..." on the link below.
Shine On You Crazy Diamond
at 10:20 AM Category: music 6 comments
I can still very much recall when it happened.
About three years ago I had taken up a yoga practice and was getting pretty regular at it. Up until that time I would say I had a fairly bad (but common) posture of rounding my back all the time.
Well one day while in downward-dog, my shoulders rolled back a bit and my back straightened in a way that - quite frankly I'm not sure ever had - and there was a very intense *POP* in my spine right between my shoulder blades. It wasn't a bad pop, in fact it was one of the most insanely pleasurable things in my entire life.
I remember going to a friend's house that evening with my wife and feeling like my body was floating on air - like some sort of kink that I had carried for years was finally blasted open. In fact to this day, I still like to stretch against a wall and recreate that "pop" (though it is now a fraction of the intensity it was that first day).
It's amazing what happens when we butt up against resistances, knots and tough situations and - instead of recoiling in fear - find what it takes to blast through. We've all got quirks and kinks and while some must be accepted as limitations, others are ready to be blown through to find release and freedom on the other side.
at 6:52 AM Category: general spirituality, yoga 4 comments
Holy crap.
Nickelodeon has introduced a new show called Yo! Gabba Gabba and I must say again: "holy crap."
Take 80's rap beats and video game references, a bunch of colorful and creepy puppet-people, celebrity cameos (see the 2nd clip), an emcee named DJ Lance and put it all at an ADD-inducing editing speed and you've got Yo! Gabba Gabba.
I can only imagine how absolutely hilarious this show would be under the influence of any number of substances. Actually, I'm glad my kid likes it because I get a chance to watch it guilt-free... and it's totally cracking me up.
There's a Party in my Tummy"
Elijah Wood does the Puppet Master
The show's intro
at 11:42 AM Category: family, fun, TV 7 comments
I really enjoyed this video below. At most schools there is a tradition of the students pulling off a class prank. Many times these things are malicious, causing destruction and harm. (A couple of us, for example, in high school wanted to put a live goat in the Library... which never came to fruition, by the by.)
In the clip below, the Junior Class at some high school blocked traffic for some time by walking in a steady stream across the street, running through the underground tunnels and getting back in line. It's quite the humorous display. One can only imagine the frustration of those waiting in their cars to get through.
There ARE stories throughout the world's traditions of God being the Divine Trickster: Krishna as the butter thief, the Native American coyote, etc. I think a healthy amount of mischief is good for the world. It helps us see that our little dramas are mostly superficial (like being stuck in a traffic jam) and since EVERYTHING ends, then NOTHING is to be taken too seriously (sincerly, yes, but not too seriously).
Enjoy "The Junior Prank":
at 6:55 AM Category: general spirituality, internet 5 comments
I'm not sure how it happened this fast, by my little girl started school this week. Yes, it is preschool, but it's still school.
On a related note, she turns a big "3" this weekend. Happy Birthday, Kalliopi!
at 1:49 PM Category: family 5 comments
One of the great things about Netflix is my ability to see films that I normally wouldn't go into a store and rent. Though this French Film (from the director of Amelie) is over 15 years old, I had never heard of it. Check this vid for the trailer to DELICATESSEN:
What a fun, delightful, atmospheric dark comedy. If you like Terry Gilliam movies such as Brazil, this is right up that same alley. The characters are outrageous, the sequences are fun and the comedy is creepy and fantastic. Though the entire movie is not this choreographed and goofy, here's one clip to give you a taste (pun intended):
at 10:19 PM Category: Movies 3 comments
My Netflix queue finally sent me a copy of Peaceful Warrior over the weekend. While admittedly I can see how casual viewers might dismiss some of it as cheesy fluff, if you remain open to it, there's some really good stuff in here. As Jon puts it "there is no movie I am aware of that more honestly and movingly shows what learning with an authentic spiritual teacher is like, capturing the traps, lessons, pains, and joys experienced upon the way." Though not perfect, Peaceful Warrior is a definite "see" for anyone interested in stories of spiritual awakening.
Dan Millman: Life has just three rules?
Socrates: And you already know them...
Dan Millman: Paradox, humor, and change.
Socrates: Paradox...
Dan Millman: Life is a mystery. Don't waste time trying to figure it out.
Socrates: Humor...
Dan Millman: Keep a sense of humor, especially about yourself. It is a strength beyond all measure.
Socrates: Change...
Dan Millman: Know that nothing stays the same.
at 8:55 AM Category: Movies 2 comments
Last night the Waltz for Venus boys and I had one of the highlights of our musical careers. We played Boiler Gold Rush (one of the Welcome Events at Purdue University) and had the privilege of performing at the Elliott Hall of Music - a stage that has been rocked by the nation's biggest acts from Kelly Clarkson to Dave Matthews to...
Anyway, the crowd was incredibly responsive - jumping, singing, fully engaged - and it was either the biggest thing we'll ever do - or just the beginning: the start of WFV ver 2.0 (lets hope it's the latter).
Enjoy SET ONE of the pics. I've got more to post when I get them from the other camera-woman. Mad props to Brandy Brooks for this fantastic photography...
...one more more from the Green Room for good measure...
at 9:52 AM Category: music 6 comments
at 11:35 AM Category: general spirituality 3 comments
After several weeks of waiting for my first home brewed beer to age properly, here we go:
Scotch Ale ("Wee Heavy") in a "thistle" tulip glass
Appearance: Pours a 2 finger-width head which reduces down to a very thin lacing. The color is deep brown with a copper tint.
Aroma: Spicy sweet molasses, cherry, chocolate, plumbs, and alcohol.
Taste and Mouthfeel: Bold flavors of bitter coffee, dark chocolate, tobacco and caramel with the cherry returning in the finish. Mouthfeel is soapy and slick, with a slight buzzy carbonation. There's a good blend here of the bitterness from the hops and and that overarching "scotch ale" sweetness.
Notes: There was an initial "sourness" that decreased as the beer aged. The first bottle I opened made me think the lot was ruined, but as the weeks rolled by each bottle got smoother and sweeter. The drinkability is high as it is not so heavy that it can only be enjoyed by the fireplace in the winter, but it still is also not a casual summer beer. A very successful first try - and it's a good thing I like it because I've got about 40 more waiting in the closet.
at 10:35 PM Category: beer 6 comments
Speaking of music...
Once again, I'm catching the tailwind of internet fads/memes, but for those of you not blessed to experience this, here we go.
It's called "Chocolate Rain" - but I think you'll pick up on that after hearing him say it 4,000 times. Watching this creates the strangest internal dialog that is some combination of the following:
-"this is funny"
-"this is sad"
-"what the eff is this?"
-"whoa, this is kinda catchy"
-"how is that voice coming from that head"
-"is that James Earl Jones?"
-"is that Janet Jackson?"
-"what the hell is chocolate rain?"
-"i think he's singing about something serious"
-"isn't that the MegaMan theme song on the keyboard?"
-"why can't I stop watching this?"
-"why can't I sleep at night without this song invading my brain"
-"please, God, make it stop"
Watch it. I dare you to go the whole 5 minutes.
And then, to make things more funny, endless people have done parodies:
at 9:59 AM Category: fun, internet 1 comments
at 10:22 AM Category: general spirituality, music 7 comments
at 10:50 AM Category: quotes 5 comments
... is inspirational encouragement - a way to share your life and reflections as a gift to others, those who read your words.
But there is virtually no substitute for actual practice and experience. Religion as we know it has far too long made spirituality a masculine, heady proposition - and blogging, too, lives in that realm.
Bring the attention out of the head, down into the body, live as a gift to others, and see if that doesn't make all the difference.
at 8:53 AM Category: general spirituality 4 comments
Ok, let me get this straight: a Wes Anderson film starring Jason Schwartzman about a spiritual quest in India? I can't think of three cooler things in one sentence.
Click here for the trailer to The Darjeeling Limited
at 8:46 PM Category: Movies 5 comments
Had a few minutes last night and decided to look up some TV shows of ages past. A couple of these I haven't seen for AGES and it gives me crazy nostalgic feelings to see them again. Crescent fresh!
(the theme song to) SALUTE YOUR SHORTS (love this one)
PICTURES PAGES w/ BILL COSBY
at 9:15 AM Category: pop culture, TV 1 comments
at 3:50 PM Category: taoism 2 comments
at 3:38 PM Category: music 2 comments
...though the Dancing one near the end looks kind of ok. (Lord, they're going to sell a jillioin of these things)
"Wii Fit" for the Nintendo Wii game system:
By the way, I'd assume the Yoga portion is a bit of a SHAM because you're not really going to do a full Yoga workout/experience all within a little square area (trying to imagine doing floor poses on that elevated pad) ... I guess we'll see.
at 10:07 AM Category: Wii 3 comments
Experiment: Take a deep, deep inhalation and once your lungs and belly are full, hold it. Hold it, feel the tension and the growing burn. A little longer. As long as you can.
And release.
That... that's it. Feel that? That's what the world needs. It's easy to get so damned involved with horizontal life - with all its anxieties and troubles and appointments and excitements - that you are knocked out of balance, all bloated with crap and needing to exhale. As I said in a previous post, it's a kind of contraction "anytime we live from the level of Ego. It's like a muscle tightening up when we desire something or get caught up in ourselves. It's relaxing that contraction that allows us to spread out, surrender, release..."
YOUR TURN: Books? Beer? Backrubs? Hot Baths? Yoga? Sex? Porch swings? Swimming? Bike riding? Dancing? Napping? Laughing? What helps YOU uncoil, expand, release and open?
at 11:13 AM Category: general spirituality 8 comments
Aren't these cool? Go to www.simpsonsmovie.com to make your own "Simpsons" avatars. (Sorry, Amy, yours looks a bit ... stoned?...stiff? There are only so many options with these things.)
Anyway, "The Hardens" are headed for vacation July 2-9th. I'll probably still be cruising ya'lls blogs throughout the week, but I probably won't be posting much.
We're headed back to the lowcountry - smack dab between Savannah, GA and Hilton Head, SC - for a little R&R with Amy's mom and stepdad.
See ya around...
at 2:06 PM Category: family 5 comments


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- Description
This is no ordinary electro acoustic guitar by Ibanez. Featuring an AEL body in a stunning natural finish, this has a thinner depth to a standard acoustic guitar but is the largest of the Ibanez acoustic body profiles. The most remarkable aspect of this electro acoustic model is the unique fanned frets that sit atop of the neck. Fanned frets are an innovative design which will enhance the way you play guitar forever.
With the creation of the AEL body type, Ibanez have consolidated size and sound projection to make the ideal guitar profile that will accomplish an exquisite range of tones. For any guitarist who wants to achieve an all-round wonderful acoustic output, this AEL electro acoustic model is a superb choice.
The guitar is constructed with a Sitka Spruce soundboard, rosewood back and sides, and a mahogany neck with a rosewood fingerboard. This beautiful blend of tonewoods work endlessly together to produce a full-voiced acoustic sound, whatever the genre.
Ibanez have designed this AEL electro acoustic guitar with innovative, groundbreaking fanned frets. Generally, this means that there is a longer scale at the bass side combined with a shorter scale on the treble side of the guitar. The reasons behind creating this AEL Fanned Fret guitar were primarily to develop low string tone while also achieving the right balance in string tension.
The scale length goes from 635mm at the 1st string side to 680mm at the 6th string, and this enables the instrument to produce intonate highs and sonorous lows. Its unique multi-scale length means you can also experiment with a world of alternate tunings because of its impeccably equal balance in string tension.
The Ibanez AEL Fanned Fret electro acoustic guitar is equipped with the Ibanez AEQ-SP2 preamp system, thus enabling you to plug into an amp for a more resounding acoustic output through an amplifier thanks to the Fishman Sonicore pickup just beneath the bone saddle. The preamp has bass, treble and volume dials, as well as a convenient onboard tuner to guide you. Balanced XLR and 1/4 outputs allow you to plug into your desired amplifying device.
The headstock is fitted with reliable Grover chrome die-cast tuners to a 1:18 gear ratio to boost tuning accuracy and precision, which works fantastically alongside the onboard tuner.
The bone nut and saddle combined with the exclusively shaped rosewood bridge ensure that a firm connection is held between the guitar and each individual string. Innovative Ibanez Advantage Bridge Pins hold the strings in tact, and these pins are much easier to take out and put back in than a standard bridge pin when it's time to change your strings. These have a bulb-shaped end thus making it easier to grip, and once you put the pins back in they will keep each string in place securely.
The Ibanez AEL Fanned Frets Electro Acoustic Guitar is an absolutely sensational instrument which has unique features and a boutique feel but thankfully comes at an affordable price that any guitarist can take advantage of.
- Specification
Manufacturer Ibanez Model 2016 AEL Fanned Frets Electro Acoustic Guitar Body Shape AEL, Cutaway Top Material Sitka Spruce Back and Side Material Rosewood Neck Material Mahogany Fingerboard Material Rosewood Guitar Size Full Number of Strings 6 Tuners Grover chrome die-cast tuners Electronics Ibanez AEQ-SP2 preamp with Fishman Sonicore pickup Finish Natural
- Reviews
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