text:
4 October 2010
Passionflower @ 168 Bourke Street, Melbourne
Passionflower @ 168 Bourke Street, Melbourne
Passionflower is a newly opened dessert haven that purports to entice us with sweet exotic flavours. With a prime focus on ice cream and ice cream based desserts, you will find Asian inspired delights such as green tea, durian, jackfruit, lychee and black sesame.
A week has passed since my initial visit to Passionflower. I remember watching in anticipation as the waitress placed my "Superstar" before me. The dessert contained a generous serve of plump white glutinous rice balls, three scoops of ice cream – sticky rice, black sesame and azuki red bean – and a sprinkling of crushed peanuts. Served in a beautifully presented martini glass, the "Superstar" appeared to have leaped out from the glossy menu pages from which I had just made my order. I was impressed.
It was time to assess whether the dessert tasted as good as it looked. The morsels of glutinous rice were pleasantly chewy without being too sticky and were nicely jazzed up with a coating of lightly roasted black sesame seeds. As I placed the first spoonful of ice cream in my mouth, I suddenly found myself pausing to relish the texture of the ice cream. It was exceedingly smooth and creamy, disappearing into my mouth as if it had never been there. After experiencing such an ethereal moment, I had heightened expectations of the flavours to come. My taste buds waited patiently to be tantalised. They waited some more. It soon became apparent that the highly anticipated moment was never going to eventuate. The ice cream flavours were lacklustre. The use of a full-bodied cream had produced a perfect texture, but unfortunately, the consequent milkiness had overpowered the intended flavours of the ice cream. My taste buds felt cheated.
I didn't have plans to return to Passionflower in the near future, but I had been tipped off that the lychee rose ice cream was a true delight. As an avid fan of both lychee and rose flavours, I was determined to give this place a second chance.
Second time around, I ordered the "Playmate" and was similarly greeted with a stunningly presented martini glass. With the gorgeous hues of pink, red and white emanating from the lychee rose ice cream, coconut flavoured agar agar jelly, strawberry syrup and dollop of whipped cream, the dessert was asking to be admired rather than to be devoured. Occupying the greater part of the martini glass, the three scoops of ice cream promised to be the hero of the dessert. The creamy texture of the lychee rose ice cream had transported me to a heavenly place, before bringing me back down to Earth with its anticlimactically dull and dreary flavours. The sweet concentrated lychee flavour that often permeates lychee sorbet was sadly absent. Although the tang from the strawberry syrup managed to compensate for the uninspiring flavours, it was so overpowering that any traces of lychee and rose had vanished. Admittedly, the strawberry syrup was enjoyable, but frozen cream with strawberry topping is not what I had ordered.
Passionflower will bring smiles to those who are simply looking to be dazzled by a wide range of exotic ice cream flavours. Passionflower will also bring smiles to those who are simply looking to admire the aesthetics of picture perfect desserts. However, and most importantly, Passionflower will bring nothing but sheer disappointment to those who are actually looking to consume any of the desserts on offer.
Rating: 2/5 (Poor)


text:
Ashley and Steve Join Forces
Ashley Souerby and Steve Palmerin celebrated their outdoor wedding at Morton Arboretum's Hedge Garden with some good-luck rain droplets, giggles, and lots of personalized touches in this autumnal, rustic wedding!
When Ashley and her father approached the center aisle, the Star Wars' Imperial march rang out and everyone raised heir light sabers in an arch. It seemed like the supportive "Force" of family and friends was able to fend off the dark side—of the clouds—just long enough.
They integrated a lot of Star Wars details to show off their love for the series. Every table at their reception in the White Pine Pavilion had a Star Wars quote, and they even had Star Wars accents on their cake and in their speeches!They also included a lot of Harry Potter, like the father of the bride cast a love spell on the couple!
We absolutely love that Ashley and Steve were able to incorporate something so important and special to them in their wedding day!
The photographer from Inspired Eye Photographysaid of this couple, "The love they share can break any spell and their futures are brighter than a light saber"—a perfect description of this cheerful couple!
Photographer: Inspired Eye Photography//Hair Stylist:Shear Envy//Floral Designer:Anna's Flowers//Bakery: Kirschbaum's Bakery //Reception Venue: The Morton Arboretum//Beauty: Total Image Bridal//

subset: commoncrawl


text:
order sf6 On-Site in Luxembourg1VCF349750R0691 General Information. Product ID: 1VCF349750R0691; ABB Type Designation: Certification Level 3; Catalog Description: MANUAL OPERATING KIT FOR CLOSE-OPEN PUSHBUTTON HD4 /SG /CD [L3]Get price
where can I buy re-use in BhutanrealMyst: Masterpiece Edition is available on Nintendo Switch now! What's included with realMyst: ME on Nintendo Switch? Does realMyst: Masterpiece Edition for Switch run on a Switch Lite, too? Does realMyst: Masterpiece Edition use the gyros in the Joycon to act as a simulated mouse?Get price
Portable sf6 gas PURITY ANALYZER in New ZealandThrough AVO New Zealand the RH973 SF6 Gas purity analyst has been sold to approx. 100 Australasian customers bringing to the region a tester specifically designed for measurement of humidity and SF6 purity in gas insulated switchgear systems.Get price
Portable sulfur hexafluoride recovery in BhutanPortable sulfur hexafluoride gas detector. with data recovery function can choose part or all of data recovery. RTU short distance wireless transmission or any place that unlimited distance of GPRS wireless transmission modes are both available through the built-in wireless module. Sending the real-time detection results and alarm status toGet price
How to Detect Calibration in EgyptCalibrations by an outside organization are an important part of a quality assurance program. It is important to know that your equipment is actually within allowed specifications. Operators must have the confidence in knowing that their equipment was calibrated by an outside organization and is traceable to NIST, NRC, and other regulatory boards of test and measure.Get price
fluke sf6 Alternatives control in Guineafluke sf6 Alternatives control in GuineaTRANSORFILTER sf6 Alternatives collection in Papua New Guinea Transor Filter USA shipped a specially designed V-18 Series modular filter to a prominent aerospace contractor. The V-18 unit will furnish multiple EDMs with a continuous supply of chilled, temperature-controlled oil required for intricate and precision applications.Get price
develop gis sf6 Management in Palestinedevelop gis sf6 Management in PalestineThis SF6 gas insulated switchgear working principle is the biggest advantage in the working stability and development of miniaturization and it also without any maintenance for 30 years time. SF6 gas insulated switchgear(GIS) has vacuum circuit breaker and disconnector without maintenance, which greatly reduces maintenance and inspection workload.Get price
advantages of sf6 gas base in Denmarkadvantages of sf6 gas base in Denmark07/02/2019F gas equipment manufacturers should: produce goods that use gases with lower global warming potentialGet price
Advantages of gis sf6 Disposal in Saint LuciaAdvantages of gis sf6 Disposal in Saint LuciaAccording to St. Catherine, there is no limit to those who now benefit from the new system. "By streamlining, improving the process of collecting data via the use of tablets and through the internet as we are doing now eliminating paper, making the whole process environmentally friendly in the process, I think that there are many benefits for the lay man in terms of a quicker delivery of statistical results."Get price
enervac sf6 mix process in TaiwanENERVAC's High Vacuum Process upgrades the new or used electrical insulating fluids including transformer oils, polybutenes and silicone fluids. These systems and equipment were developed as a result of 50 years of experience in vacuum treatment of electric insulating fluids.Get price
advantages of sf6 valves and couplings in TunisiaWhen using the our company coupling system a leak rate of better than 1 x 10-8 mbar l/sec. is achieved corresponding to less than 1 cm³ in 3 years. The our company seal principle prevents the loss of SF6 gas and moisture from penetrating the SF6 gas system. our company couplings will eliminate the loss of SF6 gas by incorrect gas handling.Get price
where can I get sf6 recycling in MoldovaConcorde Specialty Gases is a Global supplier of Sulfur Hexafluoride SF6 gas other Specialty Gases - Located at 36 Eaton Road, Eatontown, NJ 07724 USA Toll Free: 1-800-818-5109 customerservice
750kv-substation-onsite-service. On-site SF6 recovery service is driven by a trailer which equipped with our full set of recovery, refilling, purification equipment and measuring instrument, drive to the substandard gas compartment, perform onsite shutdown and maintenance, directly recover unqualified SF6 gas, recycle and purify them to be qualified and then return to gas compartment, theGet price


text:
Dan Evans had zero wins from his last 10 matches, but he was the hero of Britain's tie against Slovakia: he beat Lukas Lacko ranked 211 places above him in straight sets, and Martin Klizan, ranked 156 places higher, in the deciding rubber.
Britain faced Belgium in the second round. Colin Fleming and Ross Hutchins kept the British hopes of a comeback alive after Olivier Rochus and Steve Darcis wins. But David Goffin, making his Davis Cup singles debut defeated Josh Goodall in straight sets to propel Belgium to the World Group play-offs.
GROUP I EUROPE/AFRICA 1ST ROUND: GREAT BRITAIN – SLOVAKIA 3-2, Glasgow, hard
Dan Evans defeats Lukas Lacko 6-3 7-5 7-5
Martin Klizan defeats James Ward 6-2 4-6 6-4 7-6
Colin Fleming/Ross Hutchins defeat Michal Mertinak/Filip Polasek 6-3 7-6 0-6 6-3
Lukas Lacko defeats James Ward 7-6 6-1 6-3
Dan Evans defeats Martin Klizan 6-1 6-1 4-6 3-6 6-3
GROUP I EUROPE/AFRICA 2ND ROUND: GREAT BRITAIN – BELGIUM 1-3, Glasgow, hard
Steve Darcis defeats Josh Goodall 6-7 6-3 6-4 6-4
Olivier Rochus defeats Dan Evans 3-6 6-5 7-6 6-4
Colin Fleming/Ross Hutchins defeat Ruben Bemelmans/David Goffin 4-6 7-5 6-3 6-4
David Goffin defeats Josh Goodall 6-4 6-4 6-4
26 November:
Leon Smith picked 3 singles players in his team, which means that Andy will play doubles with his brother Jamie Murray on Saturday. Kyle Edmund will make his Davis Cup debut against David Goffin tomorrow.
Johan van Herck decided to preserve Steve Darcis for the doubles, so Ruben Bemelmans will face Murray on Friday.
Here is the full draw for the 2015 #DavisCupFinal between Belgium and Great Britain pic.twitter.com/95GJBrjxbd
— Davis Cup (@DavisCup) November 26, 2015
Should it come to a decisive fifth rubber, Darcis would probably face James Ward on Sunday.
Belgium or Great Britain, which team will win the Davis Cup 2015?
- Great Britain (96%, 43 Votes)
- Belgium (4%, 2 Votes)
Total Voters: 45
23 November:
Updates for people travelling to Ghent:
– Additional security measures will be in place at all entrances to the venue and will apply to all ticket holders, staff members and visitors.
– Entry into the event will take longer than usual. Please keep this in mind when planning your arrival to the Flanders Expo. The gates will open two hours in advance of each day's start time.
– Bags and backpacks will not be permitted into the Flanders Expo, those who arrive with them will be asked to check them into available off-site storage facilities.
– No food or drink will be allowed into the arena. A full selection of refreshments will be available in venue.
22 November:
British Davis Cup team will fly to Belgium tomorrow morning. Event organisers say they have "not yet had a signal it's not safe" to play
— Russell Fuller (@russellcfuller) November 22, 2015
Dogs and explosive experts will be patrolling the Flanders Expo and all bags will have to be left in lockers outside the venue
— Russell Fuller (@russellcfuller) November 22, 2015
16 November:
No surprise with the teams nominations announced today: Goffin, Darcis, Bemelmans and Coppejans for Belgium, Andy and Jamie Murray, James Ward, Kyle Edmund and Dominic Inglot for Great Britain:
Our TEAM! pic.twitter.com/FGTXdtgrHN
— Johan Van Herck (@johan_van_herck) November 17, 2015
Aegon GB @DavisCup Team to face Belgium: @andy_murray @kyle8edmund @JamesWardtennis @jamie_murray @dominglot pic.twitter.com/luHpwDYDTo
— British Tennis (@BritishTennis) November 17, 2015
What a memorable Davis Cup weekend, with some massive performances by Andy Murray and Lleyton Hewitt.
Great Britain – France: 3-1
Gilles Simon defeats James Ward 6-4 6-4 6-1
Andy Murray defeats Jo-Wilfried Tsonga 7-5 7-6 6-2
Andy and Jamie Murray defeat Nicolas Mahut/Jo-Wilfried Tsonga 4-6 6-3 7-6 6-1
Andy Murray defeats Gilles Simon 4-6 7-6 6-3 6-0
One more disillusion for the French team after their defeat in the final last year. Despite 3 top 20 players in their team (Simon, Tsonga and Gasquet), they could not beat Team GB at Queen's club this weekend. Andy Murray won three matches in as many days to propel Great Britain into the Davis Cup semifinals for the first time in 34 years.
We think Leon Smith sums it up perfectly! #Legend #Respect #DavisCup pic.twitter.com/1EUvYt5kID
— British Tennis (@BritishTennis) July 19, 2015
Probably my favourite pic from the weekend. #DavisCup. #proudmumtweet pic.twitter.com/WVkazDeKa3
— judy murray (@judmoo) July 20, 2015
Australia – Kazakhstan: 3-2
Mikhail Kukushkin defeats Thanasi Kokkinakis 6-4 6-3 6-3
Aleksander Nedovyesov defeats Nick Kyrgios 7-6 6-7 7-6 6-4
Sam Groth/Lleyton Hewitt defeat Andrey Golubev/Aleksander Nedovyesov 6-4 7-6 6-2
Sam Groth defeats Mikhail Kukushkin 6-3 7-6 4-6 7-6
Lleyton Hewitt defeats Aleksander Nedovyesov 7-6 6-2 6-3
Thanasi Kokkinakis and Nick Kyrgios were respectively 3 and 4 when Lleyton Hewitt played his first Davis Cup match back in 1999. And this weekend the soon-to-retire showed them how the job has to be done. After the surprising defeats of the young guns, Groth and Hewitt won the doubles on Saturday, and on Sunday Sam Groth levelled the tie against Mikhail Kukushkin. Hewitt then defeated Nedovyesov in straight sets to complete Australia's first 0-2 comeback since 1939.
Sunday's #DavisCup #PhotoOfTheDay is @lleytonhewitt after he sealed Australia's 0-2 comeback & sent them to the semis pic.twitter.com/Ibx278ZYie
— Davis Cup (@DavisCup) July 19, 2015
The Emirates Arena in Glasgow is the favourite to host the much anticipated semi-final clash between Great Britain and Australia, that will meet for the 13th time, with the Aussies leading 8-4 and having won the last three.
Andy Murray and Lleyton Hewitt are ready to rumble:
See you in September @lleytonhewitt @TKokkinakis @NickKyrgios
— Andy Murray (@andy_murray) July 19, 2015
Looking forward to it champ @andy_murray #GBRvAUS https://t.co/xsO4sm0MCT
— Lleyton Hewitt (@lleytonhewitt) July 20, 2015
Darcis defeats Nadal in straight sets 7-6 7-6 6-4 in the first round at Wimbledon. Is it Nadal worst defeat ever? Even worst than his defeat to Rosol last year?


text:
iJoy Capo 100 Squonker KIT (20700 Battery Included)
IJOY CAPO SQUONKER is the first regulated squonker which is compatible with 21700/20700/18650 battery. Featuring tiny and ergonomic size, it is capable of running up to 100W with fantastic battery life. A big front OLED screen displays essential information to the user. Implementing personalized design of adjustment buttons and big fire button,it adds more convenience during use and handling. Presenting hale and fashionable exterior design, IJOY CAPO SQUONKER is colorful and highlights the personality. The food-grade soft and hard silicone squonk bottle holds a generous 9 ML of liquid which allows for suitable squeezing and easy maintenance . The top battery slot with top loaded battery cap ensures the safety and ease of battery replacement.
iJoy Capo 100 Squonker KIT (20700 Battery Included)
COMBO RDA Triangle comes with an innovative triangular gold-plated deck that allows for hassle-free building. Side airflow hit directly to the coils, makes the vapor cloudy. The COMBO RDA Triangle also equipped with 810 wide bore Ultem drip tip and gold-plated BF pin.
IJOY CAPO SQUONKER is a practical kit that excels in good flavor.
CAPO Squonker Box Mod Product Features:
- 9 ML food-grade soft unique designed silicone bottle
- Regulated Squonker
- 21700/20700/18650 battery compatible
- 18650 battery adapter included
- Spring-loaded 510 thread
- Max Wattage: 100W
- Size: 78.2*52.3*30mm
- Personalized big fire button
- No overhang with 25mm tanks
- Resistance Range: 0.05~3.0 ohm
- Fast charge support
- USB port charging support
Kit Includes:
- 1 x iJoy CAPO Squonker Box Mod
- 1 x Combo RDA Triangle
- 1 x 20700 Battery Included
- 1 x 18650 Adapter
- 1 x Squonk Bottle
- 1 x Tool Pack
- 1 x User Manual
- 1 x Warranty Card
- 1 x USB Cable
Additional information
Green, Gun Metal, Steel, Rainbow
There are no reviews yet.


text:
What Are AGEs?
AGEs are toxic compounds. Their full name is Advanced Glycation Endproducts, and they form naturally in small amounts in our body. Until recently, scientists thought AGEs were just normal byproducts of our metabolic system linked to sugar.
New studies show that AGEs are present in large quantities in most of the foods we eat today. As new modes of food processing, applied by food industries, or popular methods of cooking expose food to dry-heat to make it safe, digestible and tasty, they also help raise AGEs to levels dangerous for the body.
Why do we consume foods that contain substances known to be toxic? It's simple. AGEs are known to bring to raw nutrients those positive attributes we associate with our favorite meals. AGEs are responsible for the taste, appearance and the smell of foods we enjoy – the grilled burger and pizza and soft drinks and fried chicken; the bacon and corn chips and cookies. AGEs are at work whenever cooked food attracts our attention, awakens our senses and encourages us to take yet another bite, even when we're already full. How many of us would consider eating these same foods raw? But before you think of thanking AGEs for all the pleasure they have given you over the years, consider this:


text:
What aspects of your wedding do you place the most value upon when it comes to financial investment?
This episode of The Bridechilla Podcast, I welcome back planner Leah Weinberg from Color Pop Events to explore how you and your partner can approach the budgeting process of your wedding in a more logical way so that you're ultimately spending money on what's important to you and saving money on what matters less.
Read Leah's very helpful blog below and if you haven't heard Leah's last guest appearance on Bridechilla, and read the blog, (episode 316), I encourage you to do so as it's a real winner.
Listen to episode 327 of Bridechilla
Before I dive into the details here, I want to let you know what this post is NOT going to be. It's not going to be your solution to having the wedding of your dreams on a budget. It's not going to give you clever hacks on how to save money on your wedding in random ways. What it IS going to do is help you and your partner approach the budgeting process of your wedding in a more logical way so that you're ultimately spending money on what's important to you and saving money on what matters less.
Every couple has different tastes, different styles, different priorities, so it's impossible for me to say spend money on "x" but not spend money on "y." Plus, I have respect and love for every single type of wedding vendor out there, so I can't make blanket statements about who is and is not critical for a wedding. In short, this is going to be about what matters to YOU.
I recommend that all newly-engaged couples sit down before doing any planning and discuss (a) how much total money they can/want to spend on the wedding, and (b) of the wedding vendors they are going to hire, what's the most important so that they can prioritize how they are going to spend their money.
Venue – Some couples want to get married at a location that is incredibly unique or that sets a particular tone for their wedding day. Other couples are happy to get married somewhere incredibly low key. It is very easy to spend a large portion of your budget on a venue fee, so figure out your vibe as a couple and narrow down locations based on what fits you best.
No matter how you look at it, photography is going to be an important part of your day. As Jamie Wharton from Earnest points out, "Don't feel guilty spending a big chunk of money on your photographer because they're the ones who are going to help you remember your wedding after it's over. Your wedding is only one day of your life, but a quality photographer will allow you to relive that special day for the rest of your life!" Even if you think photos aren't that important, it is still worth investing in a quality photographer. But I am happy to report that that doesn't necessarily have to cost you a fortune! In NYC, photographers can start around $2,500 and go up to $10,000+. There are amazing photographers to be found at a lower price point (perhaps they are new to the wedding world or have launched their photography business as a side hustle) and I personally know a lot of mid-range (price-wise) photographers whose work blows a lot of $10,000+ photographers out of the water.
Quite possibly one of the most frequently asked questions from my couples is whether it's worth hiring a videographer. It's a super hard question to answer because, yes, I hired a videographer for my wedding, but my husband and I have probably watched our wedding video twice. Video can tell the story of your wedding day in a way that photos alone can't, but it can also be a big expense. I feel like this vendor is the one that requires the most discussion amongst couples in terms of how to prioritize them.
Food is one of those categories that is very personal to the couple. Plenty of people will say, "Oh, don't spend a lot on food because no one remembers what they eat at weddings," while others take the opposite side and say how refreshing it would be to finally have tasty food at a wedding. I feel like this one is pretty easy for couples to navigate. Do you consider yourself foodies? If so, then you're going to want food at your wedding that wows your guests.
No question, you've got to have great music at your wedding. Most couples feel pretty strongly about whether they want a band or a DJ and this is an area where splurging (on a band) or saving (with a DJ) are both viable options. When thinking about whether you want a band or a DJ, keep in mind that you're looking at at least a $10,000 difference to hire a full wedding band. Personally, I'm on Team DJ, but that's a discussion for another time.
I have several close friends who are stationers and I don't love it when people's immediate answer to questions about saving money with a wedding is to ditch the fancy invites. If paper isn't important to you, then that's a fine option (go the Paperless Post route or order something online from Minted) but if you love design and are really into the aesthetics of your wedding, then custom invites and day-of paper are a great way to bring some flair and fun details to your wedding day. Not to mention that a killer invite can really set the tone for what's the come.
I have so many couples tell me that "they don't care about flowers," but what they really mean is they don't want to spend a lot on flowers. I get it, flowers are expensive, and you can expect to see a whole blog post from me on that topic in the coming weeks. But in the meantime, let's get real. In some cases, even if you're "not into flowers," you've still got to have them. In NYC, if you're having a $50,000+ wedding, you've got to have flowers or some other kind of professionally-prepared décor. When you're throwing a party of a certain caliber, you can't skate by with no decorations. If you're having a smaller scale wedding, then by all means, get creative with the décor and skip on the floral centerpieces.
When it comes to creating a budget for a wedding, it's all about first setting your maximum spend and then getting real with your partner about what matters most. Then you can start to put the monetary puzzle pieces together and hit the ground running with your research. And, if the idea of putting together your own budget and researching vendor costs sounds too daunting, you can always hire me to do it for you!
Show image by Amy Gray Photography
Meet Leah Weinberg
Unflappable. Calm under (extreme) pressure. Keeps her cool—with her sense of humor intact.
This is how clients described Color Pop Events founder Leah Weinberg during her former career as a commercial real estate attorney. Today, happy couples have come to rely on that same soothing confidence and rock-solid competence when planning their wedding.
Early in her legal career, it became clear to Leah that she was destined to be her own boss. Constantly brainstorming business ideas, it wasn't until she planned her own wedding in 2012—dubbed the "wedding of the year" by multiple guests—that she knew she'd found her calling. In 2013, Leah launched Color Pop Events to bring her eye for detail and flawless event execution to couples in and around New York City.
Leah applies an attorney's meticulousness to all weddings. She forecasts multiple steps ahead of the game, navigating complexities and steering clear of (or quickly resolving) any problems with limitless energy and resourcefulness.
Whether your wedding is brash and bold or sweet and intimate, Leah turns the overwhelming into the easy with a smile, serenity, and contagious spirit that couples find wonderfully refreshing.
Contact her now to see how we can enhance your special day—and make the months leading up to it just as beautiful.


text:
Bryant Park is one of the most relaxing places in the city — but if you go into the subway station beneath it, bring your earplugs.
The platform for the F, V, B and D trains in the 42nd Street station below the park is the noisiest public place in the city, according to a new survey.
The train stop's cacophony comes in at a deafening 93 decibels — as loud as standing next to a lawnmower, according to the group Hear the World.
"It does seem louder than any place in the city down here," said Jonathan Murno, 44, who was recently waiting for a train at the station. "I think in New York you have to tune a lot of stuff out."
The second-loudest spot in New York, barring places like nightclubs, concert venues and the runway at JFK, was not far from the noisiest subway station — the bus stop at 42nd Street and Fifth Avenue. The group said the noise there registered at 87 decibels.
Dr. Craig Kasper, the chief audiology officer of Audio Help Associates of Manhattan who serves as Hear the World's New York expert, said people in these spots should take care to protect themselves.
"Once you reach anything over 85 decibels, you are really at risk," he said.
The next-loudest places, according to the group, were along the West Side Highway, at 83 decibels; in the middle of Herald Square near Macy's, at 78; in Times Square near the military recruitment center, at 76; and Union Square across from Whole Foods, at 74.
While Hear the World said it didn't test the whole city, the places it did test were the subject of the most complaints to the group.
Hear the World is holding an event with free hearing screenings and a celebrity-photo gallery at Macy's Herald Square from Jan. 6 to Jan. 19.
Kasper said that to protect yourself, you don't need high-tech devices.
"We have wonderful earplugs built in, they are called our fingers," he said.
He did advise people using MP3 players to ditch their earbuds.
"If we don't have good sound-isolating earphones, ultimately we have to turn our volume up to compete," he said. "And that is a real problem."
Noisiest places in town:
1. 93 decibels: F, V, B, D platform, Bryant Park
2. 87 decibels: Corner of 42nd St. and Fifth Ave.
3. 83 decibels: West Side Highway
4. 78 decibels: Herald Square
5. 76 decibels: Times Square, near the military recruiting station
6. 74 decibels: Union Square, across from Whole Foods
7. 73 decibels: Grand Central Terminal on the main concourse at rush hour
8. 72 decibels: Bryant Park, in the middle of the park


text:
Lisboa, center of technology
"There is something truly unique happening in Lisbon right now" – Paddy Cosgrave
Is a fact that Lisboa is in the world's mouth at the moment, not a month goes by without a new article about how Portugal has become the best holiday destination or how Lisboa is the coolest city in Europe. But did you know that Lisboa is also becoming a creative and tech startup hub, which is bringing major investment to the country? Let's dig a bit and see how this happened.
Lisboa will be the host for Web Summit for more 10 years. Paddy Cosgrave, founder of this conference says that the main reasons are the facilities and the possibility to host the event for over 70.000 people. Some other reasons may be the light, heritage, good food, sea, vibrant nightlife, hospitality, most people fluent in English but most important and listen carefully to this one (this will probably make you want to come to Lisboa this year): sun in November!
But Web Summit isn't the only event happening in Lisboa, there are so many conferences such as Droidcon Lisbon, Lisbon Investment Summit or WYSTC Lisbon that will bring thousands of people to the city. And that's not all, dozens of new workspaces have opened in Lisboa making it much easier for startups to set up. Some examples are Heden, IDEIA and Cowork Lisboa.
We could be here all day giving you examples of companies that opt for Lisboa as their headquarters, new workspaces, conferences and so on. But let's hold some information to impress you when you are here.
But, keep this in mind, like Paddy Cosgrave said: "If this is your first time in Portugal, let me tell you this won't be your last"
AMIN Lisboa is coming!
Dive in the marketing and advertising world with your AMIN colleagues while enjoying the beautiful views and the sunny weather in Lisboa.
Registration deadline is on September 30th.


text:
Michael Bird & Brian Rosner (eds.). Mending a Fractured Church: How to Seek Unity with Integrity. Bellingham: Lexham Press, 2015.*
It's no secret that Christians disagree- sometimes with considerable harshness. It's also no secret that the New Testament issues strong calls for the unity of the Church, and for graciousness and charity over disputable matters. But what are the non-disputable matters? How do you ensure that the discussion of disputable matters is charitable and does not lead to breaking of the unity? Mending a Fractured Church is meant to bring biblical, theological, and historical considerations to bear on these questions, and promote a greater sense of unity among Christians who still differ on some issues without losing or compromising essential doctrines.
What it's about:
Mending a Fractured Church brings together a collection of scholars (almost all of whom are faculty at Ridley College in Australia; Peter Leithart being the exception) to examine the biblical precedents for handling disputes about doctrine or practice, as well as looking to Protestant history and contemporary challenges posed because of a plurality of backgrounds in contemporary churches. The authors attempt (as the subtitle suggests) to set precedents for how address theological concerns in ways which preserves the unity of the Church but doesn't compromise doctrinal integrity.
The first essay (Andrew Malone) seeks to set the parameters: what do we mean by "disputable matters" and what does the New Testament give us in terms of defining the unity of the Church. The second (Lindsay Wilson) explores the dispute which is described in Joshua 22 (a dispute about the placement of an altar) and examines what was done well, and what was not done well in the case, and how we can avoid problems in conversations about perceived violations by other Christians. Third, Brian Rosner examines Paul's instructions in Romans 14 concerning disputable matters, which centres around the issue of food- more specifically meat offered to idols. These instructions focus around accepting others who disagree on specific issues of practice which are as deemed non-essentials. Paul argues the believer is free, but ought to willingly curb the expression of freedom for the sake of accepting those who are not fully matured in that freedom. Fourth, Michael Bird examines the Johannine Epistles, noting that in the congregations to whom these letters are addressed, there had been a "parting of the ways" but this is not a justification for schism. Bird astutely and bluntly states "we need another denomination like we need another Babylonian captivity". Bird argues that our commitment to the one Church ought to prevent us from leaving where we are, and "the good guys" should avoid being the ones doing the leaving (more on this below). Fifth, Rhys Bezzant examines Protestant history for examples of disagreement done poorly (using the Puritans mainly who held their church order as the only valid option and others as not part of the true church) and some done well (early evangelicals, particularly in Europe, who allowed considerable space for freedom of conscience on non-essentials, demanding unity around the central marker of the Gospel). Finally, Peter Leithart unpacks the challenges confronting church in the present, especially as immigration creates a plurality of cultures, in which Christians from various parts of the world bring particular practices and forms from one place to another. How does the Church accommodate these variations.
The Good:
This book is needed. The fracturing of the Church into a seemingly ever-growing number of denominations is a disconcerting development in our history as Christ's Church. The Creed's declaration of one Holy, apostolic, catholic church is at odds with the fragmented collection of denominations we see in the present. It seems we are divided more than we are united. The Church needs our leaders to lead the way toward greater unity, even if we continue to exist in various traditions. Setting some groundwork for that movement towards unity is something most Church leaders would agree needs to happen. We need precedents (especially biblical, but also historical) to set a framework to launch inter-denominational conversations. We need some folks to begin making big moves in a positive direction. These essays lay out some potential guidelines, biblical principles, for us to begin conversations from. Realistically we can't expect any book of this type to solve all our problems, but we need some folks who are broadly respected, a category which among evangelicals, I believe, includes Michael Bird and Brian Rosner, who can be catalysts for further development. So while not the be-all-end-all, this is a good place to start; evangelical scholars bringing Scripture to bear on the disputes between "camps" within the Church.
As with all collections of essays, there are highlights. Given the fact that Romans 14 is perhaps the most extensive treatment in the New Testament on the issue of overcoming disputes, one would want any discussion of that passage to be rich, challenging, and central to the overall impact of the book. Rosner does achieve that. He capably points to Paul's approach to the division over meat. He points that Paul calls upon the mature to curb their freedoms for the sake the less mature, so that offense may be avoided to keep the unity of the Church.
Rhys Bezzant's essay was a pleasant surprise. He graciously, but effectively critiques the Puritan tradition, which, in a sense, became what it hated in the Roman Catholic Church- demanding that it alone was the true Church based on the markers of Church structure. He points to the early evangelical movement, and specifically the Evangelical Alliance, as a positive model, which made allowance for considerable disagreement, but provided a central core which could unite groups with varying opinions on non-essential matters.
The Not-So-Good:
One thing lacking was a proposal of some concrete examples of non-negotiables and disputable matters. There are a few bits in Bird's work on the Johannine Epistles (incarnation, atonement) but what constitutes a disputable matter? Depending on who you speak to, they will define this differently. Is eternal torment in hell a disputable matter? Is the understanding of the model of atonement a disputable matter? Is women in ministry disputable? Is modes of baptism disputable? Is inerrancy disputable? How do we settle disputes over what is and isn't disputable? Bird also suggests the "good guys" should not be the one's to leave. Those who differ from the orthodox should be the one's to walk away and the orthodox should allow for that if necessary. But the challenge comes with the question "who are the 'good guys'?" How do we determine who has the high ground? When both sides insist on their position as the right one, and both camps assume they're the "good guys", this suggestion doesn't provide much resolution.
The other key issue unresolved in the question of "how do we do this?" Moving from the theoretical belief that the Church should be one and not divide over disputable matters to actually mending divisions which have occurred, and preventing fractures which are beginning to form to lead to division, is a very real struggle, which this book does not address, which may have been helpful. An additional chapter or chapters on application, perhaps written by pastors or denominational leaders who have been part of reconciliation or conflict resolution would have been an appropriate here.
In a period in Church history when disputable matters are fragmenting the body of Christ, it's time for "big moves" toward unity. The unity of the Church is certainly placed, by Scripture, as something created by God in Christ, which we are called to steward and protect. For instance, Ephesians 2:14-22 (NRSV) says:
For he is our peace; in his flesh he has made both groups into one and has broken down the dividing wall, that is, the hostility between us.15 He has abolished the law with its commandments and ordinances, that he might create in himself one new humanity in place of the two, thus making peace, 16 and might reconcile both groups to God in one body through the cross, thus putting to death that hostility through it. 17 So he came and proclaimed peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near; 18 for through him both of us have access in one Spirit to the Father. 19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are citizens with the saints and also members of the household of God,20 built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the cornerstone.21 In him the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord; 22 in whom you also are built together spiritually into a dwelling place for God.
While Mending a Fractured Church won't solve the problem of division (I'm sure no one is under the illusion it will), it is a strong push to begin or perhaps further build on a very serious, and much needed conversation- how do we maintain unity of the Church and maintain our convictions about doctrine and practice? So I commend Bird and Rosner for taking on the proverbial elephant in the room. This small volume succeeds in moving the conversation forward. The conversation will of course require more work. But each step towards a goal of greater unity is a good thing. The Church needs to be always reminded of the centrality of unity of Christ's body in the New Testament. This call to action is a welcome one.
*The publishers supplied a free copy of this book in exchange for a review. I am thankful to Lexham Press and Jessie Strong for the opportunity to read and engage with this book.


text:
Harvard University, Harvard Law School Executive Education
Formal law school education typically ends with the award of the law degree required for a newly-minted lawyer to begin practice. Yet, in many ways, this initial credential marks the start of several more important phases of training and professional growth. Across the arc of their careers, lawyers advance by building their technical legal skills, professional skills, and networks. Step by step, they are challenged by increasingly complex leadership roles and responsibilities, and are called upon to exercise new skills to lead in their organizations, their profession, and their communities.
Harvard Law School launched HLS Executive Education in 2007 to help lawyers from around the world meet these challenges. To great acclaim, we have adapted the executive education model of leadership development to meet the unique needs of lawyers and legal organizations. We rapidly prepare participants to apply leadership and business principles to the difficult, daily challenges they face in serving clients and leading within their organizations. Because we work with highly-tailored, real world case studies, our interactive case method greatly enhances participants' ability to remember and apply what they have discussed and debated. Participants study, engage, and learn (as much from each other as from our faculty) and significantly grow their professional networks through the close ties they form with their classmates from around the world. Our programs result in classroom experiences of enduring value and impact.
Harvard Law School Executive Education
- 617-496-4487
- firstname.lastname@example.com


text: April 14th marked the first time Poetic Pathos Youth Slam's BNV competition took place outside of Gray's Creek High School. Ten poets gave it their all after three rounds of poetry at The Sweet Palette in Downtown Fayetteville. The competition was certainly fierce, as Shaina Scolnick was crowned the Poetic Pathos 2018 Grand Slam Champion. It will be her, 2nd place finisher Madeleine Poole, and 3rd place finisher Julia Nizen joining veterans Reagan Ford, Nikita Bishop, and Isa Meachum, top three at last year's Grand Slam and members of the 2017 BNV Team, at the 21st Annual Brave New Voices in Houston.


text:
3 Idiots is one of the best movie that I saw lately. It left a great impact in me. Started loving Amir Khan for his amazing acting skills and stunning looks. He is a legend.
Here is my try on his pic. Yes I know I have not brought out his looks perfectly.. But all that I can say is "All is Well"!!!!. :) :) :)


text:
With changing technology, everything around us has now become more convenient. One such application of digital technology is the interactive touch foil digital kiosks in malls. You may have seen some malls and shopping centers already installed kiosks at the main entrance or on every floor. But do you know that digital kiosks offer much more versatile applications than just locating stores in a mall?
Well, it is not the first time you've heard about it right? So, here we will discuss the different types of digital kiosks available and how you can utilize them at your storefront or even at different floor levels in a mall.
Before we begin, you should know that interactive touch screen digital kiosks are one of the most popular media for advertisement and surveys as well. They are intuitive and can be customized according to your needs. These digital kiosks make the lives of the common people much simpler by providing them with an engaging yet informative environment.
Before we begin, you should know that digital kiosks are one of the most popular media for advertisement and surveys as well. They are intuitive and can be customized according to your needs. These digital kiosks make the lives of the common people much simpler by providing them with an engaging yet informative environment.
Digital Kiosks – a brief introduction
Digital kiosks are popular because they are free-standing and customizable. Just like our smartphones, you can add or remove any widget that you find useful or irrelevant, respectively. Since they can be easily installed, you can find them at the entrance of the building, waiting for areas, different floor levels, and even in retail aisles.
Every digital kiosk must have a screen and a processor enabled control unit that bridges the hardware to the software. Every kiosk content is developed using cloud-based software. Thus, you can remotely control the widgets and the content. You can also add various functionalities like store maps, store locator, book movie tickets, and other functions that required people earlier.
Due to their sleek design and eye-catching features, they can be easily noticed by the visitors. It acts as a virtual companion to the people as well as brands.
Digital Kiosk – The build
The commercial digital kiosks are generally made up of aluminum housings encasing the touch screen LED. This touch screen LEDs can be protected by sturdy film covers to give it longer durability and maximum protection.
Some of the hi-tech kiosks also have an integrated cooling system to reduce overheating. This is provided if the environmental condition is hot. However, most malls have centralized air conditioning systems so they don't require a cooling system. Apart from that, the digital kiosks have a wide viewing angle with a 4000:1 contrast ratio. It provides much better visibility for the users. Some kiosks also have gorilla glass protection to avoid abrasing during multiple usages.
The 400-nit brightness doesn't compromise the functioning of the kiosk. These commercial grade screens are rated for 70000 hours without image burn. Thus, they can be used 24/7. Now, let us talk about the different types of digital kiosks available.
Digital Kiosks – types and applications
Several kinds of digital kiosks can solve your needs. However, they are broadly classified based on screen size, orientation, and functionalities.
Based on the screen size, the kiosks can be of 32", 43", 48", and 55". Interactive digital displays can be of either portrait or landscape orientation. Based on the functionalities, you may opt for toughened glass for better screen protection, retail-based advertisement, store locator, etc.
However, malls are not the only place to station a digital kiosk. These screens can also be placed in airports, museums, hotels, railways, and many more.


text:
Tottenham Hotspur are still waiting to hear if they have secured the services of Rafael van der Vaart, but the Dutchman is already looking forward to linking up with his new club.
11x2 is a community of awesome people posting and discussing the latest football news. It's part of NewsBoiler, a network of social news sites covering today's pop culture.


text:
Just a silly idea for some sort of potentially major event, but what would happen if say the mind of cat entered the body of a mouse and vice versa, for every animal on Earth? Let's also assume that for hierarchies of predators and prey, the animal's mind is "shifted" down a level e.g. the hierarchy of bodies
Large Bird -> Small Bird -> Insect would have the hierarchy of minds
Insect -> Large Bird -> Small Bird.
Just a silly idea for some sort of potentially major event, but what would happen if say the mind of cat entered the body of a mouse and vice versa, for every animal on Earth? Let's also assume that for hierarchies of predators and prey, the animal's mind is "shifted" down a level e.g. the hierarchy of bodies
$\begingroup$ Welcome to the site! While the question on its face is probably answerable, we do tend to thrive on detail around here; the more detailed the question you ask, the more detailed (and sometimes surprising) answers you tend to get. For instance, what happens in this scenario to animals like small birds that are both predators (to insects) and prey (to larger birds)? $\endgroup$– CadenceJun 10, 2018 at 9:20
$\begingroup$ @Cadence Thanks for the tip. Would you like me to edit the question? $\endgroup$– user51778Jun 10, 2018 at 9:23
$\begingroup$ By all means. You can always edit your own questions with clarifications or if new details occur to you. You can also clarify in comments if it's specific to that one person's approach to the problem, but that's rare; you should usually edit the question so everyone sees it. $\endgroup$– CadenceJun 10, 2018 at 9:35
1$\begingroup$ For this question let's assume that they do indeed have minds. $\endgroup$– user51778Jun 10, 2018 at 10:28
2$\begingroup$ I am having trouble understanding what you are proposing given a) the disparate numbers at different levels of food chains and b) which way animals in the middle of the food chain move. For example, baleen whales live by consuming vast numbers of krill etc, and are preyed on sometimes by killer whales and humans from certain nations. Given that there are orders of magnitude more krill than baleen whales, does one krill swap with the baleen whale? What happens to the other krill? If the baleen whale swaps with a killer whale, do any of the krill swap with anything? $\endgroup$ Jun 10, 2018 at 13:54
5 Answers
A wolf has fallen into a beartrap. He's trying his damnedest to set himself free, he's agonizing in the snare of the iron biting into his flesh.
A poacher arrivers. He's satisfied, a trophy to adorn his house, a pelt to sell for hefty money. He's moving with prudence toward his prey, ready to inflict the coupe de grace...
The poacher's vision turns to a world of different colors, smells, sounds, and pain, so much pain, his leg is on fire, oh God my leg! for a moment there is nothing but pain, he checks is leg and terror, sheer terror invades him as he sees an alien shape where a second ago was his body! He looks around...and sees himself standing there, in a state of shock. Do I really look that funny? he wants to elaborate...only to discover that he can't translate this concept into words. In fact, his mind is devoid of his own vocabulary! His mind is filled with...something else. He can't understand his own reflections, his own inputs. For now, there's only the pain. He tries to call for help, but only a canine yelp comes from his throat...
The wolf is frozen. Raw fear. Fight or flight? What happened to me? I am tall! I am free! I am...standing? His new body is hardwired to stand, but his mind is caught by a vertigo, he tries to stand on all four. His vision is filled with colors he didn't know now that his eyes can catch the red part of the spectrum. He sees himself. He growls. Is it a rival? A packmate? He smells vaguely familiar...but now his keen sense of smell is almost gone, and he's panicking, he can't focus. And the only smell he feels stronger it's the hated man's! It's all around him, as if he was coated in it! Reflexively, he uses a paw to clean his snout, founds nothings, no long snout. MY PAW! THIS IS NOT MY PAW! He tries to move, collapses, his body is not made for his natural posture. Pack! Pack, where are you?!? But he can't find his scent track. He is lost...
And this is just one case: In the seas, the crew of a fishing boat suddenly collapses on the deck in a fit of panic. Some of them will die of raw fear, some will plunge into the familiar sea to go home, just to discover that they cannot breath underwater and will drown, all the while their preys in the nets will meet their fate knowing, for just once, what's the feeling of asphixiating outside the sea...
All around the world, cats go into fits of panic, as they start to act like mice -and being mice able to fight back if threatened, they attack the owners who are only trying to calm them. Other felines just try to scurry away like lizards. A kid who was about to stomp an ant becomes a mindless mannequin, cut away from his nest...
Final effect: civilization ceases to exist, food chain collapses at all level, except for the microbiotic level. Plants that need impollination will soon follow since there will be no more impollinators able to do their job. Soon Earth is on its way to become all-green again, in a new ecosystem where plants have no enemy and microfauna can thrive on the remains of the larger biomass. How this will affect its relationship with the greenery remains unknwon.
4$\begingroup$ This is probably the best written on World Building, maybe even SE! Sounds more like a short story rather than a regualr answer. +1 $\endgroup$ Jun 10, 2018 at 14:00
$\begingroup$ A few typos and some narrator/character POV jumping mid-sentence, but apart from that: very well written. $\endgroup$ Jun 10, 2018 at 16:03
$\begingroup$ Sorry, English is not my mother language, will do better next time^^ $\endgroup$ Jun 10, 2018 at 16:10
There are several "levels" of predators, from predatory insects that can only feed on specific prey, to hypercarnivores like cats, which can survive on just about any kind of meat, to hypocarnivores like bears and humans that eat meat, but can do without.
Marine life will be hit the hardest, as it's got a very long food chain. Only specialized marine life can consume plankton. Since all the minds got swapped, though, lifeforms violating their role won't become easy prey.
All in all, most primitive carnivores will die out, as they have little diet variety. Bird bodies will mostly die out, as flying requires specialized instincts. Some bird-to-bird swaps may survive. Probably 99% of non-reef and 90% of reef marine life will die out.
Human bodies will die out, as they can't be sustained without intelligence. Human minds in our primary animal food, large herbivores, should have a good survival rate. But boy it's going to be boring with no internet and SX!
They would starve, because they lack the necessary knowledge and instincts to feed themselves.
First, they might not even know how to control their new bodies.
If they do learn how to even walk before starving, the mouse in the cat's body would try to eat fruits and grain. It wouldn't be aware that its digestive system can not metabolize them. The cat in the mouse's body would try to hunt with its weak claws and small teeth, which would be unsuccessful too.
$\begingroup$ Is it possible that some species would survive? Predators and prey that have somewhat similar diets or mindsets? $\endgroup$– user51778Jun 10, 2018 at 10:37
Its going to get bloody, and quickly.
Lets look at a Fox and a Rabbit for now, because the cycle you described was one of predator eating smaller predator eating smaller predator while you are really asking for a predator/prey swap. Despite the anatomy, many nerves and muscles will have the same wiring, and brains adapt quickly to change so they'll be able to move effectively before starvation/dehydration.
The Fox thinks its prey now. It also thinks leaves and such are now its food. That will eventually kill it. But that eventuality is going to have to wait.
The Fox is standing in a field somewhere as it happens. It is suddenly surrounded by maybe 200 rabbid Rabbits per one Fox, not to mention all the other critters that are suddenly lusting for Fox. Rabbits are now sneaking up on the Fox, and the first Rabbit takes a sprint at it.
The Fox will take off, and any direction it goes in more and more Rabbits give chase until the Fox stumbles or is foxed (heh) in. Now the Rabbits will try to give the Fox a fluffy Grave, but the Fox will now try his last stand as he thinks he's about to be devoured... Only to find that its rather effective at defending itself. The Rabbits can scratch and bite but have trouble killing. Many Rabbits will succumb to their wounds or stop the attack upon finding too much resistance.
Unfortunately for the Fox, by the time he's fought off his first round of attackers the second round is looking to see if all that noise might be a wounded prey they can easily devour. It'll eventually die of exhaustion or the slow flaying of its skin caused by all those Rabbits and critters.
End result: most of them die from wounds and exhaustion, the remainder dies from starvation.
Any species that gets our minds and can eat plants will survive
Humans are very adaptive and have a rather large variety of foods we eat. As such any animal that gets ours minds and has a diet not critically dependent on a different animal will likely survive.
Apocalypse Happens for Humanity
Humans rely heavily on their minds to keep things going, so for all humans to have the minds of the most basic creatures would result in everything humans maintain falling apart.
Chickens Survive
Humans eat a lot of chicken and we are their primary predator, so it makes sense that they would get a large share of the human minds. Combined with the information in the linked question, I am going to assume intelligent chickens will take over the world.


text:
Kwiambal National Park
I spent a couple of nights at Kwiambal National Park in NSW last week for a spot of relaxation and fishing. Photography wasn't the main aim of the trip for a change but I couldn't resist getting the camera and tripod out for a couple of sessions in between bouts of inactivity around the campfire. Photos from an earlier trip to Kwiambal can be viewed here (just scroll down the page).
The Severn River flows right past the campground - it's easy to spend a couple of hours rockhopping along the river and exploring among the boulders and rock platforms that line the channel. I got up early one morning to do some exploring with my camera and this is what I found.
The photo above was a little exercise in low light photography – it was still dark but I liked the look of the moon hanging above the river, so quickly found a spot and set up my tripod. I framed the shot by torchlight, and in retrospect I would have been better off scouting the area in daylight to pick out a few possibly stronger compositions. The exposure time for the shot was about 3 minutes which has completely smoothed out the water movement, but it also turned the moon into a blurred streak across the sky. To get around this, I took a couple of much shorter exposures to freeze the movement of the moon and then blended the results in Photoshop. It's not the most interesting composition I've photographed, but I like the unusual colouring created by the moonlight and the soft look created by the long exposure.
The colours in the morning skies were quite bland unfortunately but there were still plenty of interesting features to target. I wanted to use the scalloped patterns of erosion in the rock platforms as foreground interest, the main problem with this being that the most interesting views and compositions I could find were aimed directly up or down the river, which was also directly into or away from the sun. In a lot of cases, I prefer side-lighting for these sorts of images because it creates more interesting shadow effects and tends to produce bolder colours with more separation. But unless you have any control over where the sun rises, you use what is in front of you.
The ranger told us that the fishing for murray cod and golden perch can be quite good in both the Severn and Macintyre Rivers at Kwiambal. We had a bit of a try but didn't come up with anything, so I went back to the camera. The first photo was taken on the Severn River just in front of the campground, and the others are on the Macintyre River near Slippery Rock. The deep blue skies are partly a result of using a polarising filter, but it was also just one of those vivid blue-sky days that winter regularly produces in this part of the world.
Sandstone Point - Godwin Beach
Here are a few new images from the foreshores around Sandstone Point and Godwin Beach at the northern end of Moreton Bay in Queensland. In the first one taken just before sunrise at Sandstone Point I included some overhanging branches of a coastal she-oak, one of the very common foreshore trees in this area. A slow shutter-speed has allowed some movement in the she-oak needles and given them a soft look which I think complements the peaceful mood of the scene.
The exposed tidal flats near Godwin Beach make interesting photographic subjects. Apart from the patterns in the sand and mud created by water movement and burrowing animals, the overriding feature that always strikes me about these sorts of places is their broad, open expanses extending to the horizon. The quiet stillness of a tidal flat is something of an illusion though when you consider the billions of tiny animals living out their daily dramas in and on the mud. For a photographer, mudflats create some obvious difficulties - coming home dirty with your boots full of mud is a given, but finding a stable platform for your tripod (an essential for photographing in the low light of early morning) can be a problem - tripod legs tend to slowly sink in the mud so long exposures often come out blurred despite your best efforts to keep everything still. There isn't an easy fix for this - maybe extra large feet for your tripod would help - but it's something to be aware of, and it's often a good idea to take multiple shots of each scene to make sure at least one comes out sharp.
Iluka, NSW
I'd hoped to spend some time photographing the rock pools and formations around the base of Iluka Bluff, but a big surf was crashing into the base of the cliffs so access was out of the question. I managed to get a couple of shots down at water level at low tide, but then climbed up onto the Bluff for some views up and down the coast. Salt mist from the surf made the views a little hazy but there were still some nice colours in the sky at sunset.
To escape the wind and salt I headed into the World Heritage Rainforest at Iluka to look for some more intimate shots among the dense growth. It can be hard to find strong compositions that convey the feel of a forest with wide angle shots so I tried to focus on narrower views of micro-landscapes that caught my attention.


text:
Choose another country or region to see content specific to your location and shop online
Need some inspiration?Fridge Freezers Freestanding Washing Machines Eat Like A Pro
No results found!
Drag image left & right to rotate.
TSE1561PX: Fridge (Table Top, 101 L)
It can be tricky to see everything in your fridge, especially in the corners and at the back of selves. Led Illumination features chains of LED on the top of the fridge, and for every shelf on the side wall so you can see clearly throughout the cooler. It's more energy-efficient that standard lighting too.
Frost build-up in static fridges makes food stick together and the appliance consumes more energy. Thanks to MinFrost's special evaporation system, ice build-up in the freezer is dramatically reduced. That means frozen food will be preserved better and with less energy, while you'll need to defrost less frequently.
Some kitchen layouts require that refrigerator doors open in one direction and not the other. Reversible Door allows door hinges to be placed on both the left and the right of the unit, so decide which way your fridge doors open. Plus, you can double your cooling capacity by placing two fridges side by side and reversing the doors of one.
Tech Specs
Product Type
Fitting Type
Fresh Food Storage Net Volume
Energy Efficiency Class
Cooling System Type
Total Gross Volume
Total Net Volume
Fresh Food Storage Net Volume
Fridge Shelf Type
Number of Crispers
Egg Tray Capacity
Reversible Door
LED Illumination
Control Type
Fitting Type
Door Handle Type
Energy Efficiency Class
Annual Energy Consumption 32 °C
Daily Energy Consumption at 32 °C
Noise Level
Climate Class
Packaged Height
Packaged Width
Packaged Depth
Packaged Weight
We don't have any online retailers for this product right now. We're always adding more retailers so be sure to check again soon.


text:
Gathered together once again in the presence of God's living and effective word, we are revealed for who we are before God and others and, even better, God is revealed, yet again, in our midst. Like the author of Hebrews (second reading) who understood the power of God's word to cut to the quick of all matters so as to lay bare the truth, the 12th-century doctor of the church Bernard of Clairvaux was similarly convinced. "The word of God," Bernard wrote, "is not a sounding but a piercing word, not pronounceable by the tongue but efficacious in the mind, not only sensible to the ear but fascinating to the affection. God's word is not an object possessing beauty of form, but rather, it is the source of all beauty and form.
God's word is not visible to the bodily eyes, but rejoices the eyes of the heart. And God's word is not pleasing because of the harmony of its color, but by reason of the ardour of the love it excites" (quoted in A Treasury of Quips, Quotes and Anecdotes, Anthony Castle, Ed., Twenty-Third Publications, 1998).
Such was the experience of the word of God that moved the author of today's first reading (purported to be Solomon) to share his desire for the word above all else. Rather than riches, health, beauty or long life, this ancient brother or sister of ours prayed for wisdom. Regarded as God's own spirit, intelligent, holy, the fashioner of all things and the image of God's glorious goodness, wisdom was also regarded as the creative logos or word of God in which all truth is revealed. Understood in this way, the gift of God's word-wisdom is more precious and valuable than any other possession. Unfortunately, human beings are sometimes slow and/or even reluctant to place such value upon a gift that can't be seen or touched or counted. God's gift of wisdom-word offers security but not of a monetary sort. It offers power and prestige but not in a worldly sense, and while it is a treasure beyond measure, it is not earned or merited. It is pure gift as are all of God's good and gracious blessings.
This truth is affirmed in today's Gospel. Although the young man who ran up to Jesus and knelt before him had the good sense to know he was in the presence of one who spoke the truth and lived by the truth he spoke, he had much to learn. His question, "What must I do to inherit eternal life?", as Baptist pastor Bob Buchanan pointed out, was a good one but his assumptions were wrong. He was of the mind that goodness was achieved by oneself. He also thought that eternal life should be merited by the good that he did. He probably also assumed that his good fortune and many possessions were somehow proportionately related to or the result of his efforts at observing the commandments of God from his youth. His final erroneous assumption was that everything could be bought for a price, including eternal life. As Barbara Brown Taylor (The Preaching Life, Cowley Publications, 1993) has affirmed, "No matter what we do, none of us earns eternal life. We can keep the commandments until we are blue in the face; we can sign our paychecks over to Mother Teresa and rattle tin cups for our supper without ever earning a place at the banquet table of God. The kingdom of God is not for sale. It never has been; it never will be. The poor cannot buy it with their poverty and the rich cannot buy it with their riches. The kingdom of God is a consummate gift." When the rich man realized this truth, it came as a shock to his sensibilities. All he had been taught was being challenged; all he had believed through all his life was being shaken to its foundations.
There, in the truth of God's word as spoken and explained by Jesus, all of the man's assumptions fell to pieces. Unable to cope with the challenge of the word, he went away sad. I like to think he eventually came back to Jesus and, with God's grace, accepted God's gifts with humility and gratitude. However, this Gospel is about more than one man's choice; it is about you and me and our willingness, or not, to open ourselves to the truth of God's word and without any assumptions or presumptive expectations to accept as gift all that God so generously offers. We do not deserve God's gifts even though we go to church, keep the commandments and the law of love, tithe, volunteer, read the Bible and pray daily. We are not worthy because we are just, honest, merciful, generous to the poor and supportive of foreign missions. We are blessed with every grace and all good gifts because despite the truth of our sinfulness and selfishness, God loves us, and even though our ugliness is laid bare before the word of God, our Creator allows the divine image to shine forth in us. For all this, for God, for the word, let us be truly grateful.
[Patricia Sánchez holds a master's degree in literature and religion of the Bible from a joint degree program at Columbia University and Union Theological Seminary in New York.]


text:
Find information on COVID-19 vaccines, testing, and guidance.
Arlington County Vehicle Personal Property and Second Installment Real Estate Taxes are due by October 5
Arlington $1 Ice Skate – Did you know that Arlington residents can skate at the MedStar Capitals Iceplex for $1 during certain ice times?
Includes admission and skate rental. This is a great opportunity to check out the Ballston Quarter and get on the ice. This dollar skate is also available every Tuesday afternoon from 2-3:30 p.m., but please check the online schedule before coming to the rink as sessions are subject to change.
Ballston Quarter
627 N Glebe Rd., Suite 800
MedStar Capitals Iceplex, 571-224-0555.
Sign up to receive sports updates for youth and families.


text:
The WirePilots are Dan Rubright, composer and guitarist, Ted Rubright, electro/acoustic percussion. They have been very fortunate to work with some fine bass players including Ric Vice, Syd Rodway and Chris Turnbaugh. Other frequent soloists are Sandy Weltman on harmonica and ukulele and Paul DeMarinis on saxophones.
This is where you can find out where they are playing, get bios and hear and see samples of their music.
The St. Louis, MO based group plays the original tunes of award winning composer and guitarist, Dan Rubright. The music demonstrates Rubright's love of world flavors including Latin, American jazz, Brazilian influences. Sophisticated yet accessible, there is an underlying pop sensibility that blurs traditional genre boundaries and appeals to listeners of all ages.


text:
SBK Generations download torrent
- Release Date:2012
- Genre:
- Developer:Milestone
- Publisher:Black Bean Games
- Language:EN / GER / Multi5
- Crack:Not required
System RequirementsCPU: Intel Pentium IV 3.0 GHz or better
OS: Windows XP / Vista / 7 / 8 / 10
Video Card: GeForce 8600 GT, 256 MB VRAM
Free Disk Space: 4 GB
DescriptionThe official game of the FIM Superbike World Championship is back and is now the most complete motorcycling simulation ever created Play through the last four seasons of the SBK world championships, including the brand new 2012 season to become world champion or test your skills in the brand new SBK Experience mode. With SBK Generations, Milestone has developed a masterpiece: the definitive motorcycle game, crammed with over 220
riders, 60 bike models, 140 teams, 17 circuits and up to 16 player online multi-player
Game Modes
- Official Mode: live the glamour of the official Superbike championship ace as one of the SBK, Supersport and Superstock 1000 riders on the most famous tracks in the world, and rewrite the history of the seasons from 2009 to 2012.
- Career Mode: take your rider through the championships from 2009 to 2012, starting in the lower classes and riding your way up to the top, where the title of World Champion awaits
- SBK Experience: a unique and innovative experience that will take you into the world of motorcycling through exciting objective-specific challenges and one-manufacturer races against the best riders in the world, Legends included
- Online: experience all the thrills of a real Superbike race, challenging up to 15 players online.
Gameplay Trailer SBK Generations


text:
Located just 2 miles from the entrance to the Indiana Dunes State park, Spring House Inn is surrounded with natural history, where you can experience peaceful and educational pursuits through natural wetlands, tall sand dunes, and the refreshing waters of Lake Michigan. The area is filled with interesting historical points of interest, shopping, serious antiquing, cultural arts and a variety of acclaimed restaurants, plus miles of hiking and biking trails.
Area Attractions
- Valparaiso Popcorn Festival
- Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and Park featuring beaches and hiking/biking trails
- Lighthouse Place Premium Outlet Mall
- Downtown Chicago Loop
- Star Plaza Theatre
- Bailly Homestead & Chellberg Farm
- Anderson's Orchard & Winery
- Schoolhouse Shop & Antiques
- Chesterton Art Gallery
- Antique Shopping
- Blue Chip, Harrah's and Trump Casinos
- Chapel of the Resurrection (largest collegiate chapel in the world)
- Brauer Muesum of Art
- South Shore Train Station
- 1933 Chicago World's Fair Homes
- Dunes Summer Theatre
- Chicago Street Theatre
- Splashdown Dunes Waterpark
- 49er Drive-In Movie Theatre
- Yellow Brick Road Gift Shop & Fantasy Museum
- Taltree Arboretum & Gardens
- George Brown MansionHoosier Bat Company
Universities near the hotel:
- Notre Dame University
- Indiana University Northwest
- Purdue Calumet
- Valparaiso University
Businesses near the hotel:
- Worthington Steel
- Mittal Steel
- U.S. Steel
- Beta Steel
- Oglebay Norton Minerals
**Offering weekly rates for guests on business. Call hotel for rates. Not valid for less than a 7 day stay.
Area Weather:


text:
HM Treasury
|Printable version
Halfords announce 500 new apprentices across the UK as Chancellor visits West Midlands store
Chancellor welcomes news that Halfords will place 500 apprentices in stores across the country over the next 12 months.
On a visit to Halfords' Shirley store in the West Midlands, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne launched plans for the nationwide programme which follows a successful recent pilot. Five candidates from the trial were awarded certificates by the Chancellor in recognition of their achievements.
The visit followed earlier speeches by the Chancellor and the Prime Minister, where they set out their six-point long term economic plan for the Midlands.
At the heart of the plan to make the Midlands an engine for growth, the Chancellor set out new measures to help develop skills and people in the region. These include investing in a new approach to matching people with opportunities with Andy Street – the Chief Executive of John Lewis and Chair of the Birmingham and Solihull LEP – to work with local businesses bringing together all of their vacancies for the first time in one place, and actively matching local people to them. The Chancellor also announced an investment in 100 new job coaches for local job-seekers to access the right training and apprenticeship to secure a good job and the expansion of the Birmingham Baccalaureate.
The Halfords programme equips candidates with four qualifications. Those completing the three weeks intense training will gain Halfords' Gear 1 level training, a Retail Level 1 certificate, an Employability & Personal Development Certificate, and Level 1 or 2 in Maths and English.
The scheme is open to people who are currently unemployed, long-term unemployed and NEETS (not in education, employment or training) and on completion of the above training, candidates are interviewed and, if successful, offered apprenticeships.
Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne said:
Improving skills and creating jobs is at the centre of the engine for growth we want to build in the Midlands. Our long term economic plan for the Midlands is all about ensuring that the right training and apprenticeships are available to make the most of people's talents and that's why I welcome the investment Halfords are making in people. It's great news that their programme will create hundreds of new opportunities for hard-working people, right across the country.
Halfords CEO Matt Davies said:
We wanted to go above and beyond the usual apprenticeship model, and by offering pre-employment training to our candidates, we're raising the bar for training in the retail industry. We will train 500 apprentices across Halfords in year one with this new scheme and see huge potential for the programme in getting people back into work and a new wave of talent into the industry.
Halfords has already run an apprentice scheme in its Autocentre business for over 20 years and currently has 225 apprentices employed in the business, with a pass rate currently at 80% for completion of the three year full time apprenticeship.
The 2014 Apprentice of the Year, Elijah Sumner has progressed to the World Skills Final and he is in a team competing to represent the UK at the finals in Brazil later this year.
Halfords has 11,000 employees and was named number 25 in the Sunday Times Best Places to Work Survey 2014.
Latest News from
HM Treasury
The Growth Plan 2022 speech23/09/2022 14:10:00
The Growth Plan 2022 speech as delivered by Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng.
National Insurance increase reversed23/09/2022 12:25:00
The 1.25 percentage point rise in National Insurance will be reversed from 6 November, the Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng yesterday announced.
Government outlines plans to help cut energy bills for businesses21/09/2022 12:14:00
Support for households, businesses and public sector organisations facing rising energy bills has been unveiled
Search to be launched for new Treasury Permanent Secretary09/09/2022 15:20:00
The Chancellor has asked the Cabinet Secretary to begin the recruitment process for a new Permanent Secretary to the Treasury to succeed Tom Scholar.
HM Treasury and Bank of England to launch the Energy Markets Financing Scheme (EMFS)08/09/2022 15:20:00
HM Treasury, working with the Bank of England, will launch the Energy Markets Financing Scheme (EMFS).
Readout of the Chancellor's meeting with the Governor of the Bank of England08/09/2022 10:05:00
A readout of the Chancellor's meeting with the Governor of the Bank of England
Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng sets out economic priorities in first meeting with market leaders07/09/2022 13:05:00
Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng met market leaders this morning (Wednesday) to set out the government's new, pro-growth economic approach
G7 Finance Ministers statement on Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine05/09/2022 11:10:00
This statement follows the G7 Finance Minister and Central Bank Governors' meeting on 02 September 2022.


text:
Ο Γιος της Σελήνης: Το παραμύθι και το τραγούδι
"Hijo de la Luna" (English: "Child of the Moon") is a song written by José María Cano performed originally by the Spanish band Mecano with lead singer Ana Torroja.
The lyrics depict a Roma woman in love with a man of the Calé tribe, who prays to the Moon to marry him because a marriage between tribes was forbidden according to Romani laws. The Moon asks for the woman's first-born as payment.
After the child is born, his parents are dismayed to see that his skin is the whitest white and his eyes are grey, even though they both have dark skin and dark eyes. The lyrics explain that the Continue reading


text:
With Testo's SuperResolution technology, you can capture extremely high-resolution infrared images (up to megapixel quality) with your Testo thermal imagers. The high-definition SuperResolution thermal images improve the usable geometric resolution of the thermal image by a factor of 1.6 – with four times as many measuring values.
Super-Resolution Technologies for Thermography
Revolutionary technology – SuperResolution H4>
SuperResolution technology is always sought when you need the greatest possible detail in the images for your professional thermographic analysis. The thermal imager's infrared images have a considerably higher resolution and greater detail. The important thing is that: SuperResolution technology always records genuine temperature measuring values – there are no artificial intermediate values projected! This means that SuperResolution technology offers the possibility - without using larger, more expensive detectors - of recording more temperature measuring values with the thermal imager.
Thermal images now in megapixel quality H4>
With SuperResolution technology, you improve the infrared quality of the high-end testo 890 thermal imager by one class in no time at all: four times as many measuring values and a geometric resolution of the infrared image resolution that is improved by a factor of 1.6 which means you get high-resolution thermal images (1280 x 960 pixels) in megapixel quality! Together with the outstanding thermal sensitivity of < 40 mK, thermographic measurement with the testo 890 and SuperResolution gives you a thermal image which is accurate in every detail and therefore even greater reliability in terms of measurement.
SuperResolution in building thermography H4>
In building thermography, SuperResolution technology is ideally suited for fast and easy detection of building damage. In addition, energy losses in the heating or air conditioning of buildings can be analysed using high-resolution thermal images. The high level of detail in the image makes inadequate insulation, resulting heat losses or construction defects clearly visible. Leakages can also be displayed precisely in the thermal image using SuperResolution technology.
SuperResolution in industrial thermography H4>
The geometric resolution of the thermal image plays an important role, particularly in the research & development field. This has been improved by a factor of 1.6 thanks to SuperResolution technology. This means the size of the smallest measurable object is also reduced, which enables the measurement of the smallest structures. So, the tiniest structures down to 0.07 mm can be thermographed using the testo 890 and SuperResolution technology in high resolution. SuperResolution is therefore always particularly important when very small objects need to be thermographed (e.g. a circuit board), or when you need to explore the smallest details in the thermal image after measurement using the Testo analysis software on the PC. At the same time, more details can be identified with images captured from a great distance.
SuperResolution technology also plays an important role in industrial maintenance – above all in the detailed early detection of imminent damage in production-related plant components. In case of mechanical components too, the detection of thermal irregularities (e.g. due to friction or incorrect adjustment) can indicate an elevated level of stress.


text:
For fans of a football club, few sporting venues can match the excitement of your home ground, and Vicarage Road – home of Watford FC, nicknamed The Hornets – is no exception.
Of course, with thousands of fans attending week in, week out, it is important for venues like this to have an audio system that is suitable not only for announcements relating to games and team matters, but also one that complies with all relevant standards and legislation relating to mass-notification and voice alarm in sports venues.
However, in recent years the existing PA system at the 19,900-capacity Vicarage Road football ground was becoming unreliable and there was doubt as to whether it could perform as expected in the event of a public emergency. In compliance with the Green Guide and building regulations, an annual safety review of the audio system for life safety was carried out by Watford FC and Sennheiser UK. It was this review that established the need for an extensive upgrade.
It was necessary to supply a system that provides sufficient coverage for the ground, improving the audio performance in the bowl area (the pitch and stands) for sports presentation. However, the system also had to be flexible and powerful enough to supplement any non-sporting live events held in the ground, such as concerts by lifelong Watford fan Sir Elton John, to cite a recent example. Another stipulation was that the system needed to be installed during the football and rugby season (the ground is also home to Saracens Rugby Club) and around the venue's many conferences and events.
Watford called in respected system designer Roland Hemming of RH Consulting, who worked with Sennheiser UK to specify a system that could cope with every eventuality.
Hemming's solution comprises a combination of D.A.S. Audio Rf series loudspeakers for the bowl and D.A.S. Arco for the under balcony and bar areas, all of which were specifically modified for the project. A total of 162 Apart loudspeakers – 16 ceiling speakers and 146 sound projectors – were supplied for many of the back-of-house areas. Sennheiser's ew500 G3 Series covers radio microphone requirements. In total, the system uses over 200 loudspeakers and is split into 20 zones.
The new bowl system covers three of the four stands, with the East Stand left unchanged and integrated into the new system. On-site installation took nine weeks, and was performed by E-Mech Entertainment Engineering (led by Huw Micklewright), with the existing PA/VA system remaining in place and connected to the new amplifiers and loudspeakers during the process, allowing 100% uptime of the PA/VA system during the transition from old to new.Because of the shape of the stands, and to get the throw to the back of the seating areas, the D.A.S. clusters were split into two hangs for the Vicarage Road and North Stand, while the Rouse Stand required double hangs. Rigging is predominantly D.A.S.'s own, although E-Mech has added some additional steels.
When it came to deciding how to control and power this extensive loudspeaker installation, Hemming opted for a familiar configuration that utilised the individual capability and compatibility elements of Peavey MediaMatrix NION n6 and PLM Series, Lab.gruppen's flagship Powered Loudspeaker Management platform.
Designing the system around the MediaMatrix NIONs provided the benefit and security of being able to implement a networked dual redundant ring configuration – eliminating audio network downtime caused by a single point of failure. This was critical to the system's fulfilment of dual roles as both standard PA (such as background music and commentary) and voice alarm (emergencies, evacuation messages). Among other notable benefits, the deployment of PLM Series meant the new system could be designed around Dante – viewed increasingly as the new de-facto low-latency digital audio network protocol – given that the PLM Series is fully capable on this front. Dual roles"We're driving all of the circuits," says Hemming. "A number of 100V line circuits for all the concourse and corridors; and high-power circuits into the bowl, with very high SPL levels to cover those areas. The reason we like Lab.gruppen PLM Series is that they can do both.
"We're using the custom software that allows us to view, monitor and control the PLMs from within the NIONs, so it makes integration very easy. We have a nice touchscreen display that shows us all of the 20 zones, and Dante allows us to use one system for monitoring and control. There are no latency issues, no issues with bundles that you might have with Cobranet, and all in all, it's a very simple network."
There are two rack positions, one in the North and one in the South connected in a dual redundant fibre optic loop. Around 12km of fireproof cable connects to the loudspeakers.
"The PLMs have all of the processing built into them, so there's a lot less programming involved in the set-up," Hemming continues. "We're using the NIONs very simply to provide inputs, routing and control, but all of the loudspeaker tuning is done by the PLMs, so it's an ideal solution for the stadium."
"The other reason for PLMs is that they distribute the processing, so if we do have any failures within the NIONs, the D.A.S. loudspeakers will still sound optimal. We're using both two- and four-channel amps, and they are compact, so the entire thing fits into two racks. The initial cost may be slightly higher when compared with other amplifier platforms in the same power bracket; however, due to the PLM's Universal Power Supply and the relatively low current draw, overall cost of ownership is significantly lower. In terms of total cost of installation and ownership, PLM Series is actually a very compelling amplifier to use for voice alarm applications."
The new system is compliant with the latest British standards BS5839 part 8 and BS7827, a code of practice for designing, specifying, maintaining and operating emergency sound systems at sports venues. It is the first system to be signed off against the latest revision of BS7827, launched in September 2011.
Hemming concludes: "The entire system has provided a significant improvement on what was there previously. It's a nice stadium system that is both adaptable in terms of usability and also very cost effective. The combination of the MediaMatrix NIONs integrating with the Lab.gruppen amplifiers via Dante works very well, and the clarity and definition of the D.A.S. loudspeakers gives us an exemplary system. In many ways, such as pounds per decibel, this whole system is amazingly good value." www.apart-audio.comwww.dasaudio.com www.eade.uk.comwww.labgruppen.comwww.mm.peavey.comwww.rhconsulting.comwww.sennheiser.co.uk
Vicarage Road revamps audio solution
A new audio system is providing this historic football stadium with improved sound for match days and more.
For fans of a football club, few sporting venues can match the excitement of your home ground, and Vicarage Road – home of Watford FC, nicknamed The Hornets – is no exception.


text:
Why Hummingbirds Have A Sweet Tooth Like No Other Animal
Hummingbirds are finicky eaters - they'll spit out plain water, and they won't settle for certain fake sweeteners like those found in diet soda, a new study in the journal Science shows. Instead, these little birds are all about slurping up sugary nectar, thanks to a refined palate that's genetically unique.
Many birds, such as chickens, lack the taste bud receptors that sense sweet. Comparing the taste genes of hummingbirds to those of swifts and chickens, biologists at Harvard University found that hummingbirds don't have traditionally-defined sweet receptors, either.
Plenty of animals have lost the ability to taste certain flavors over time. To a whale, everything just tastes like salt. And cats, as NPR notes, are "sweet blind," impartial to a spoonful of sugar. The cat genome still contains sweet-sensing genes - but these genes simply don't work.
With birds, however, it's a little different: they have no sweet genes at all, at least in the same way as mammals taste sugar. (Our taste receptors are split into five, for bitter, salty, sour, sweet and umami, which is, essentially, savory). It was a puzzle that perplexed Maude Baldwin, a graduate student at Harvard University: "If they are missing the single sweet receptor," she says in a statement, "how are [hummingbirds] detecting sugar?"
The trick to tasting sweet in hummingbirds, Baldwin and her colleagues found, was a mutation in the birds' umami receptors - it's as if these receptors jumped the rails from the savory to sweet track.
"This is the first time that this umami receptor has ever been shown to respond to carbohydrates," Baldwin says. Chickens and swifts, on the other hand, rely on their umami receptors to taste savory amino acids, like those found in bugs.
"The taste system is arguably a really direct line to pleasure and aversion, reward and punishment, sweet and bitter," says Harvard cell biologist Stephen Liberles, a co-author of the study. "Sensory systems give us a window into the brain to define what we understand about the world around us."


text:
Welcome to the information page for the Fine Arts Museums' Volunteer Council! Here, you'll find information about volunteering for the de Young and Legion of Honor including an overview of our various volunteer opportunities, benefits offered, frequently asked questions, and how to get involved.
We are currently not accepting applications for volunteer positions. Please see our FAQ below for any further questions, or contact us at firstname.lastname@example.com or 415.750.3629.
Already a volunteer? Login here.
On the Museum Floor
Volunteers welcome visitors at the Information Desk and Coat Check by providing information including directions, tour & lecture suggestions, transit information, and local tips. There are two floor shifts per day, the morning shift runs from 9 am–1:15 pm and the afternoon shift runs from 1–5:15 pm.
Achenbach Print Study Room
The Achenbach Foundation for Graphic Arts collection contains more than 90,000 works of art on paper including prints, drawings, artist books, and photographs. The Jacqueline and Peter Hoefer Print Study Room is open on Saturdays, 11 am–2:30 pm. Volunteers are on site in the print study room to describe the print processes to patrons and answer questions about printmaking. Fine Art Printmaking experience is required.
Access Program
We're are committed to offering services that make our collections, exhibitions, and programs accessible to all visitors. Our Access Program is available to patrons with mobility issues, low vision, or those that require ASL translation. Access program volunteers are onsite during Access Days to provide support in various capacities.
Behind the Scenes / Administrative Support
Volunteers provide as-needed support for various departments by assisting with mailing, filing, paperwork, and phone calls, among other duties. Volunteers also gain a behind-the-scenes perspective on how a museum functions.
Flower Committee
The Flower Committee designs and creates artistic fresh-flower arrangements at the de Young and the Legion of Honor. Professional floral experience or floral design degree required.
Gardening and Landscaping
Our teams of volunteer gardeners maintain and nurture the various plants and flowers on museum grounds.
Special Events and Projects
Volunteers assist with various special events that take place at the Museums, such as the Fair Trade Bazaar and the Holiday Artisan Fair. They perform a variety of duties, including check-in and registration, materials assembly, and hospitality assistance.
- Free admission to the permanent collection and most special exhibitions at both the de Young and the Legion of Honor
- Access to free lectures, special tours, educational programs, and previews of special exhibitions
- Discounts at Museum Stores and Cafés
- Annual appreciation luncheon
- Insider knowledge about the Museums' history, operations, and collections
- Recognition for volunteer service milestones
Volunteering at the de Young and the Legion of Honor promotes literacy in the arts and provides crucial support to the overall operations. Volunteers gain knowledge of art and art history, arts administration, and valuable customer service skills.
How do I become a volunteer?
The first step is to fill out an application. You will be contacted by the Volunteer Coordinator for an interview as openings arise.
Are volunteers required to work at both museums?
Volunteers have the opportunity to work at either museum depending on their preferences and availability.
Where can I put my belongings while I'm working my volunteer shifts?
Volunteers are welcome to check their items at Coat Check at the beginning of their shift.
Do I have to be a certain age to volunteer?
You must be at least 17 years old in order to volunteer.
Is a background in art history or fine arts required?
Extensive academic or museum-related experience is not necessary for most volunteer positions.
What type of time commitment should I expect?
Volunteers work a minimum of two shifts per month for at least six consecutive months. There are two shifts per day, running from 9 am–1:15 pm and 1–5:15 pm. The museums are closed to the public on Mondays, with the exception of scheduled Access Days.
Contact Information
For additional questions, please call 415.750.3629 or e-mail firstname.lastname@example.com.