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Developer: Ubisoft San Francisco
Platform: Nintendo Switch
Category: Role-Playing, Adventure, Action & Strategy
Release Date: 24th of April, 2018 (EU & NA)
“So come on down to South Park, and meet some friends of mine.”
If you are a parent and are looking for a wholesome game that you can leave in the hands of your children, while you go into another room, to do some housework, or something else entirely, then South Park: The Fractured But Whole is certainly the worst game you could let them play. But for us adults who grew up with the series, it’s pretty fantastic!
Based on the ludicrous adult animated TV series that debuted in the 90’s, developed as a sequel to The Stick of Truth and made as a game, instead of being a movie, The Fractured But Whole carries on the story of the New Kid, and if you haven’t played the prequel, it’s not the end of the world. Although The Fractured But Whole does have many references to the previous game, in many ways, it’s a lot like Super Mario Odyssey. There is a game and many things to do, but there are so many easter eggs, it’s untrue. From certain areas playing songs from certain episodes, including the Kyle’s Mom song from the South Park movie, to faces old and new. (Big Gay Al and PC Principle being two of them,) there is a lot to be appreciated. So, yeah, if you’re a fan of the TV series and have been watching it for years, there is plenty for you to notice and if you haven’t, then a lot of the jokes and references will pass over your heads, as you miss out on a lot.
What’s more impressive than the fact that Trey Parker, Matt Stone and the development team, worked really hard to make The Fractured But Whole a game that features 20+ years of South Park in a single package, is the fact that a game like this, is on a Nintendo platform. That’s not to say South Park hasn’t been previously present as South Park, South Park: Chef’s Luv Shack and South Park Rally were all playable on the Nintendo 64, but The Fractured But Whole is simply wrong on so many levels. From scenes of nudity, foul language, your character standing helplessly as someone dies, destroying toilets and more, South Park is a game that completely goes against the values Nintendo games try to convey. Then again, maybe that’s why it works so well.
Since the launch of Switch, we’ve been seeing a different side to Nintendo, DOOM is proof of that and third-party support is only getting better and better, which is music to my ears! Ports of old games or not, Skyrim is something of a classic these days and for some reason, if you haven’t played it, there’s “something wrong with you.” Thanks to the Switch, Nintendo fan girls and boys have had a door to another gaming universe opened up to them and we’re really finally getting the chance to play games that were previously denied to us. Talking of games that were previously denied to Nintendo gamers, let’s start talking about The Fractured But Whole, shall we?
With an art style meant to recreate a recent episode of the TV series, with writing and dialogue that makes the game come across as a South Park film that you can play, The Fractured But Whole is a 2.5D role-playing title, from a third-person perspective. As for the story, it continues the exploits of the New Kid in Colorado. Only, the fantasy setting used ever so well in The Stick of Truth, is soon replaced with Superheroes, as Eric Cartman and friends are changing games and it’s time for Coon and Friends to build their franchise and stop the crime wave that is now plaguing their fictitious city.
In a lot of ways, South Park: The Fractured But Whole is a lot like it’s prequel. The player can freely explore their surroundings, but there are some areas that are inaccessible to you, until you’ve advanced far enough. Classes are also back, except this time around instead of things like Fighter, Thief, Mage and Jew, there’s Assassin, Psychic, Cyborg, Speedster, Blaster and Brutalist. The last three are the first set of classes you can choose from, with many more being available later on, as your character can have four different classes, which can be changed. However, every time the game wants you to have a new class, Cartman will take you back to your childhood, to the tragic night of when your dad had relations with your mum and you couldn’t do anything to stop it, because you were busy fighting off intruders.
Also returning is a fast travel system, which is afforded to you by the Speedster hero Fast Pass (aka Jimmy). There’s also a level system that lets you earn experience and level up, provided you engage in battles against Stan’s dad (Randy Marsh,) Chaos Minions, etc. and complete objectives. One such objective, requires you to find Yaoi involving Craig and his now ex-boyfriend Tweek. (Yaoi is a Japanese genre of fictional media that is often created by female authors, intended for a female audience as the fictional media focuses on the romantic and sexual relations between the male sex.) As for who wants these intimate images, it’s Craig’s dad. Why he wants them? I don’t want to know, but if collecting things is of interest to you, you can find the images all over South Park, much like a whole ton of artifacts items that can be sold, or used for crafting new items, artifacts and costumes, of which there are many. (Some costumes can even have their colour changed, so customisation is available, including the customisation of your own original character.)
When not wandering around, taking in the sights and the humour, there are also battles and this is where The Fractured But Whole gets hard. While it is true the game features a difficulty system that can be changed at any time, which just so happens to make your skin darker, the harder the mode, The Fractured But Whole is not afraid to get difficult. In fact, if you’re not paying attention to upgrading your character and making sure you have the right moves, when it comes to time for the turn-based battles where things like bleeding can be inflicted, The Fractured But Whole can become very difficult indeed and you’ll find yourself losing more times than you win.
Not only can the battles be long and hard, but with status effects, microaggressions, Ultimate Move animations, item usage cut-scenes (cheesing makes a comeback,) there is a lot to see and learn. Thankfully, if you have played The Stick of Truth, or are a fan of strategic games in general, you will do better than most who play, as battles aren’t just about dealing the most damage you can in a single move, it’s about being in the right place at the right time, so you can win the war. Still, if the battle system doesn’t put you off, there is some bad news. I can’t believe I have to say this, but there are no Chinpokomon to collect this time around. Instead, it’s just the Yaoi of Craig and Tweek and Memberberries. (Hey, ‘member the Memberberries? Yeah, I ‘member.) Not only are the back, but they’re all over the place, just waiting to be discovered. But should you feel like you want your character to get the full South Park experience, believe me, he/she will.
With New Kid’s still incredible farting power that can be used for all kinds of things like destroying toilets (gas it up and squeeze it out,) solving puzzles by firing out hamsters from your non-facial cheeks that your Buddy, Professor Chaos (Butters,) has shoved up there, there is plenty to do that doesn’t involve fighting. Things like giving a businessman a lap-dance, clearing away lava and even having a chat about your sexual orientation with Mr. Mackey. You can also join forces with him to try and get Craig and Tweek back together, but that will result in a battle, much like going to church does, as going into a dark room, will see you having to fight off priests.
You can also make friends and take selfies with everyone who thinks you’re cool enough, as every hero needs to be popular and Coonstagram is the hit thing right now. There’s also a nocturnal side to South Park, which is where the darker side of The Fractured But Whole, comes to life. Still, as much of a delight as The Fractured But Whole is to play, the handheld experience might not be the best as The Fractured But Whole, is in no way a game you can play in public without headphones. It also seems to be prone to freezing, so even though there is an auto-save function, you will want to save your game as often as you can. Also, on the off chance, there isn’t a costume you like, if you have a Ubisoft Club account and are signed in, advancing through the game can earn you coins that can be used to buy Club exclusive items, such as an Assassin’s Creed outfit. But for the sake of saying it, if you’re looking for the perfect South Park experience in video game form, The Fractured But Whole is a greatly improved version over its prequel and is a whole lot of awesome!
While it might only be necessary that you’ve played The Stick of Truth, to catch all the game references, being a lifelong South Park fan, is simply a must. The Fractured But Whole is South Park at its finest (the last few series of the show have been questionable at best,) and it’s the perfect upgrade to the game that came before it. Sure, the Switch release doesn’t come packed with all the DLC like Switch owners had hoped for, but if you’re looking to expand upon your experience and make your stay in South Park an even longer one, the means is right there in the eShop. Just know that this game is so bad, it makes Gun*Gal 2 look tame and that’s saying something!
THE VERDICT: 8/10
*Review Key Provided by Ubisoft


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The scale and quality of public transport provision in a city matters most where its economy is growing like Topsy. Just examining the raw data doesn’t tell you the whole picture, argues Merrion MD Dougal Paver.
We love a good map or chart here at Merrion Towers. Geography ‘O’ level: it never leaves you.
I fear David may be off-beam when he claims that only London has proper public transport. He’s confusing scale of usage and provision with the opportunity-cost associated with crossing a large conurbation. Londoners use their wonderful bus and tube networks because they’d be mad not to: the capital’s scale makes it so much faster, easier and more convenient to do so.
Yet Newcastle and Liverpool have got comprehensive combined underground/metro networks, as well as extensive bus provision and both modes are very popular. It’s just that the much more manageable scale of those cities and their smaller city centres makes commuting by car far easier and faster.
It’s not about population density, either: London, after all, isn’t very dense, at 14,500 people per square mile. Try Barcelona at 41,000 per square mile. Or Paris at 54,000. There’s dense for you.
In my experience, where a comprehensive, integrated public transport network really comes in to its own is in helping rapidly-growing city economies fulfil their potential. Provision, of course, tends to lag growth given the timescales involved in planning, funding and constructing tram or tube networks, but the point is well made. Just look at Dublin, a conurbation of roughly 1.4m with a population density of just 12,460 people a square mile: the place is almost permanently gridlocked, in spite of huge investment in its Luas tram network, port tunnel, Quality Bus Corridors and suburban rail network. Every bus and tram is chocker, believe me, but infrastructure just hasn’t managed to keep pace with economic and population growth and so car use remains a key part of the transport mix. I’ve written about it before, back in 2015, and at least since then a new government has revived plans for a metro line out to the city’s airport. Meantime, the Irish capital remains a tough place to get around for such a modest-sized city.

domain: geography


December 26, 2016, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM @ Curci House
Monthly meeting of the Historic Preservation Board. Public welcome.
December 28, 2016, 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM @ City Commission Chambers
The City of Hallandale Beach's Planning and Zoning Board consists of 7 board members and 1 alternate board member. The Board acts in an advisory capacity to the City Commission in matters related to changing or amending the City's Zoning and Land Development Code and the City's Comprehensive Plan. The Board also makes recommendations regarding applications for conditional uses and variances; rezonings, land use plan amendments and development review approvals for major development; applications for all plats of resubdivisions of land and for text code amendments.
The Planning and Zoning Board meets the 4th Wednesday of each month at 6:30pm in the City Commission Chambers. Agendas and staff reports for the meetings are posted on the Monday prior to the hearing date.
December 15, 2016, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM @ Cultural Community Center
December 15, 2016, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM @ City Commission Chambers
Meeting of the Unsafe Structures Advisory Board
December 17, 2016, 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM @ Foster Park Community Center
Free holiday season activities and a visit from one of Santa's helpers at the annual Hope for the Holidays Celebration. Toys will be given to children who are PRE-REGISTERED for the event. Donations are accepted year-round as the community prepares for the holiday season.
December 19, 2016, 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM @ City Commission Chambers
HBCRA Board of Directors Meetings followed immediately by the City Manager/City Commission Special Meeting/Workshop
December 21, 2016, 6:30 PM - 10:00 PM @ City Commission Chambers
Regular City Commission meeting
December 26, 2016, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM @ All City offices closed
All City offices are closed today in observance of the Christmas holiday.


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Cheap flights from Newcastle (NCL)
Get to know Newcastle (NCL)
|Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom|
Other popular flights from Newcastle (NCL)
Newcastle destination map 2023
Frequently asked questions
Find answers to your questions about Newcastle, including cheapest prices, flight times, baggage allowance, flight connections, Kiwi.com Virtual Interlining, airport code, opening times, journey times to and from the airport, classes of flights, easiest routes to and from Newcastle in Newcastle upon Tyne and more.

domain: travel


text:
The next event is in just over two week's time, and will be held in Innsbruck on the 18-19th of May.
The top six results are below, with Brit Shauna Coxsey continuing her excellent form and coming in fourth place.
|World Cup 2012 - Vienna, Austria|
Shauna Coxsey is sponsored by Five Ten
The GB team would like to thank the Team's Clothing Sponsor Five Finger Thing and the BMC for their continued support.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced that Sport Climbing (lead, bouldering and speed climbing) will join the... Read more
Melissa LeNevé has made the first female ascent of Arnaud Ceintre's La cicatrice de l'ohm, ~8B,... Read more
British alpinist Tom Ballard and his Polish climbing partner Marcin Tomaszewski have established a new route up the North... Read more
On Saturday 8th October, over 400 women arrived at The Depot, Manchester for the 6th annual Women's Climbing Symposium... Read more
British long-distance runner and five-time Olympian Jo Pavey joins an exciting lineup of top female sporting talent as part of... Read more
The biennial IFSC World Climbing Championships took place last week at the Accor Hotels Arena in Paris, uniting the world's best... Read more

domain: news


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The Best 16 Freeletics Running Alternatives
Freeletics Running is an incredibly effective running program to help you become fitter, healthier and more motivated.
Freeletics Running is ideal for every fitness level. Regardless whether you are a beginner or a professional, a male or a female athlete. We offer a personalized training program that will suit you and your specific goals perfectly:
Lose weight and become leaner Improve general fitness Increase speed Increase endurance
Runtastic is your personal sports and health assistant for all kinds of exercises (running, cycling, gym training, walking, hiking, skiing, cross-country skiing, skating, boarding, elliptical, tennis, yoga and many others).
Freemium Android iPhone Android Wear Blackberry Windows Phone
SmartRunner is a sportstracking and geotracking application, which allows you to record your next run, biking trip, hike, walk, ride, or any other outdoor activity and publish them on www.smartrunner.com .
Freemium Android iPhone Web Blackberry Windows Phone Windows Mobile HP webOS S60

domain: sports


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- Back by popular demand for a limited time only! This lush and fruity wine punch makes any holiday gathering more festive. Just add red wine and water and freeze in the handy bucket.
- Garnish with fresh slices of orange, lemon or lime.
- Best prepared with dry red wine such as Merlot, Pinot Noir or Cabernet Sauvignon
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute non-alcoholic red wine or sparkling grape juice for wine. Chill; do not freeze. Serve over ice.
- Item: 776607
Samba Sangria Slush Drink Mix
2 (750 ml) bottles red wine
1 1/2 cups warm water
1. Empty and rinse bucket. Add dry mix, both bottles of wine and enough warm water to fill to within about 1/2 inch of rim. Stir well to dissolve.
2. Freeze 12-14 hours.
3. Stir and scoop into glasses. Makes about 9 (8 oz.) servings.
By the Glass
3 ½ tablespoons Samba Sangria Slush Drink Mix
3 tablespoons warm water
1 (187 ml) bottle red wine (from 4 pack) or about ¾ cup
Combine dry mix and water; stir to dissolve. Add wine; stir. Cover and freeze. Stir before serving. Makes 1 serving.
On the Rocks
Prepare as directed above. Do not freeze. Serve over ice.
INGREDIENTS: Sugar, citric acid, fruit and vegetable juice (color), natural flavors
Manufactured in a facility that processes milk, wheat, soy and egg.
No gluten ingredients.

domain: food


text:
- Subscribe NowLimited Time Offer
Cincinnati sweetens Pure Romance deal
- Staff Cincinnati Business Courier
City Council’s Budget and Finance Committee on Tuesday approved nearly $854,000 in tax credits over 10 years for Pure Romance. In return, the company is required to remain in the city for 20 years.
Pure Romance is expected to create at least 126 new jobs over the next three years and generate $2.6 million in net tax revenue in the 20 years it will commit to staying in the city.
The city raised its tax credit offering for the Loveland-based company to lure its move after the state of Ohio denied incentives it had been expected to provide. Pure Romance explored its options in Covington and met with officials there before deciding to move its offices downtown.
The full city council will vote on final approval of the deal, but that is typically a formality because all of the council’s members sit on the Budget and Finance Committee.
If you are commenting using a Facebook account, your profile information may be displayed with your comment depending on your privacy settings. By leaving the 'Post to Facebook' box selected, your comment will be published to your Facebook profile in addition to the space below.
Human Resources / Safety Manager Green Bay Packaging Inc. | Lebanon, OH
UX Designer American City Business Journals | Charlotte, NC
Building Official City of Springdale, OH | Cincinnati, OH
Visiting Assistant Professor - Business Scholars Program Hanover College | Hanover, IN
Vice President of Finance St. Elizabeth Healthcare | Ft Mitchell, KY
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A look at the day's business stories from media outlets around Cincinnati


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Learning Quality Innovation through Integration of Pedagogical Skill and Adaptive Technology
VOLUME-8 ISSUE-10, AUGUST 2019, REGULAR ISSUE
This paper aims to explore the modern learning environment (MLE) which may emerge from the secondary education into the tertiary education. This integration usually derives from enhancing the pedagogical skill and adaptive technology to strengthen the teaching and learning process. Literature review from referred books and journals was conducted with thematic analysis. The investigation was employed in depth analysis from referred books, journals and conferences using the keywords of
... skill and adaptive technology and modern learning environment. The multiple finding from met-synthesis was conducted by searching for the information which is organised using substantive keywords. The findings reveal that the role of MLE can be divided into attempting to perform learning quality, integrating the learning with continuous process, making easy in getting the sources, creating flexibility in learning. This study is expected to contribute the way of maintaining inside factor within the human being which is significantly necessary to make effort in assisting spirit performance in teaching process. To assist students across learning environment by pedagogical skills with encouraging higher teaching and learning, making convince into the pedagogy might be necessary a way to promote a range of pedagogical skills continuing integration with technological tools. In addition, using experience to boost the abstract ideas acquired in certain subjects as the source of knowledge itself can become a particular principle for the enhancement of learning in higher education.

domain: literature


Perhaps it may not be wrong to say that among the big reasons why you marvel at the European countries is quite simply down to the fact that they take the concept of infrastructure a tad bit seriously. Even more so in a comparison to the other countries.
It’s not always cleanliness that attracts you about the European countries; you marvel at their infrastructure spending. The big freeways, the massive bridges (often cable-stayed), architectural prowess even at high altitudes, and expansive universities and colleges; a collective of all of these makes Europe such a hotbed, isn’t it?
That being said, among the countries that takes its infrastructure development as a mega priority is Germany, the land of the famous autobahns. And believe it or not, the nation that houses some of the most sought after automotive brands in the whole wide world apart from prestigious universities has a big plan for developing its infrastructure even in 2020.
Despite much of the world still grappling with the vicious problem that is the Coronavirus epidemic, Germany is playing on the frontfoot where it comes to developing critical aspects of its physical infrastructure.
This, therefore, leads us to an important question:
Where exactly is the Angela Merkel-led nation’s current focus and what is being planned in the imminent future? Well, to answer that, look no further other than the tangent of digital infrastructure and rail transport.
Suggested Read: How Did Germany Combat The Coronavirus Situation?
In a recent media interaction, the country’s Transportation Minister Mr. Andreas Sheuer shared the plans of the country to seriously propose a multi-billion euro stimulus to boost the investments toward digital infrastructure and rail transport.
Now, that being told, one wonders just how big might be the size of this proposed investment?
To quote a report that featured the same on DW.com, here’s what one needs to know:
German Federal Transport Minister Andreas Scheuer is proposing a €28-billion ($31 billion) “Investment Future Mobility” economic stimulus package to boost investments in digital infrastructure and rail transport, the Funke Media Group reported on Saturday.
The coronavirus pandemic has showed how important a well-developed digital infrastructure is, Scheuer’s proposal said, adding that it has brought to light the necessity of a sustainable expansion of broadband and mobile communications networks.
As part of the investment, €3 billion should go to the federal digital infrastructure fund, while another €5 billion would be necessary to spur a “quantum leap” in network expansion that includes expanding access to 5G networks.
That said, as a matter of fact, today when one talks about the prowess of Germany, the talks do not necessarily restrict themselves (or concern) to the famous Automobile sphere. That’s a given; but there’s ever more to the country known for its passion for engineering and manufacturing.
Suggested Read: Germans Return To Churches, But Singing Not Allowed!
Here’s more about the promising spate of developments on the horizon of infrastructure development:
Scheuer also hopes to support the railway network through “targeted and fast-acting economic stimuli,” totaling €2.6 billion; €1 billion would be invested in the increased digitalization and modernization of the national railway by 2022, while €750 million would be set aside to make stations appear more attractive, and another €800 million would be earmarked to promote rail freight transport.


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Rampworx has teamed up with Volume BMX and Demolition BMX to bring you the Tea & Biscuits UK Summer BMX Tour launch! This is one of the most anticipated tours of the summer and we will be Kickstarting off the tour on Thursday 23rd August 2012 at Rampworx Skatepark in Liverpool.
With a very impressive list of riders flying in from all corners of the world for some good old Tea & Biscuits in Liverpool, this is one event that you dont want to miss. The exclusive BMX session will see the likes of Pro riders Stevie Churchill (Volume/Demolition), Mike Hucker Clark (Demolition), Mike Mastroni (Volume), Broc Raiford (Volume), Chris Doyle (Demolition) and some special UK guests all shredding the park until 10pm and having a brew with the locals!
Powered by Elephant Distribution.

domain: hobby


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Romance with a twist: How Love is Becoming Unconventional
Movies, books and songs – There’s a lot that has been written about love. Love stories are often the most celebrated form of literature everywhere. We love everything about love. How two people and are drawn to each other and end up together to live the most beautiful part of their life forever! However, the idea of love has evolved over the years. We no longer have the love stories that were showed in black and white movies- instead, our stories of love are a bit complex, yet have the simplicity that does not need overly sacrificing equations. Here’s how love today is different to what it was in the olden times.
Not making marriage the only determinant of exclusivity
Marriage was considered as the only sacred ground on which exclusive relationships stood. However, many are ditching this legal document to define their love and exclusivity for their partners. People are willing to spend the rest of their lives and making it official without any piece of paper governing this union of love.
Accepting everything that is not monogamous
Anything beyond monogamy was never considered love. There was a strong belief that love requires monogamy and vice and versa. However, the current generation has acknowledged the existence of polyamory and willfully regards such relationships the one where love persists very strongly without the boundaries of conventional norms.
No need to merge identities
Making adjustments and changing oneself to a large degree was a common phenomenon to maintain a relationship of love. However, modern definitions of this four letter word are against absolving your own identity for love. The narrative about your partner completing you as a person has changed to you complimenting each other in who you are. The individuality is a strong component of today’s modern relationships.
Valuing bonds over relationship
Gone are the days when being friends with an ex flame was frowned upon. However, love doesn’t just persist in romantic relationships and may continue even after two people are not in that relationship. People are recognizing the importance of having cordial relationships beyond just romance. Hence, when they part ways people still continue to provide support to each other.
Your partner is not your other half
The world today is recognizing various facets of love and one of the most important aspects of this is self-love. Hence, the good old theory that your partner is your better half is no longer followed. Instead of that self-love is gaining prominence to build healthy romantic relationships. The importance of self-love in romantic equations is not just a hot topic in the pop culture but also backed by psychological research that emphasizes on attachment patterns and self-esteem.
That feeling of thousand butterflies in the stomach, the excitement of meeting someone and liking them beyond inexplicable measures and everything else that has to do with love is always very exciting for us. Whether we say it or not we all wait for the perfect person to turn up, for someone whose sight will make us hear violins in our head. However, the idea of such rose-tinted love is all gone. These days, people are accepting more practical definitions of love. Boundaries in intimate relationships are being talked about. The idealistic love is no more glorified instead we are moving towards accepting all the imperfections love brings with it.
It may look like love today is more complicated that it used to be. However, these are only efforts to acknowledge the complexity of love. So, if you are in love with someone else or with yourself then don’t shy away from experiencing a whole mix of various emotions.

domain: sociology


By Paul Reynolds
World affairs correspondent, BBC News website
Iran's nuclear operations as Bushehr have raised concerns in the West
US President Barack Obama has reportedly made a potentially significant offer to Russia about defence - but will it change anything?
He has suggested that the US missile defence system in Eastern Europe would be halted if Russia used its influence to stop Iran from developing long-range missiles.
The idea is that if Iran did not pose a threat to the United States, then missile defence would not be necessary.
The US has the agreement of Poland and the Czech Republic to station anti-missile missiles and a radar station in their territories, which Russia has objected to.
The proposal, in a letter from Mr Obama to President Dmitry Medvedev, was first reported by the Russian newspaper Kommersant. Further details were then published by the New York Times and the Washington Post.
However, Mr Medvedev moved to quash the reports on Tuesday, insisting that although Russia was ready to co-operate on Iran, he had received no offer of "trade-offs" from his US counterpart.
"If we are to speak about some sort of exchange, the question has not been presented in such a way, because it would not be productive," he told reporters in Madrid.
Whether the US approach is a realistic proposition or a way of trying to entice Russia into applying more pressure on Iran over its missile and uranium enrichment activities remains to be seen.
But Iran is unlikely to give up its missile development programme easily, if at all.
Its ballistic missile development as well as its enrichment are already under Security Council sanctions.
I told the Russians a year ago that if there no were Iranian missile programme, there would be no need for the missile sites
US Defence Secretary
These might have slowed things down but certainly have not stopped them.
So, how Russia could intervene decisively is not clear. And the offer does seem to hinge not on Russian good intentions, but on results.
Iran's Shahab-3 rocket has a range of 2,000km (1,200 miles). This could reach Israel but not the US.
According to a report for the Congressional Research Service in February, Iran has no intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), defined by the US as one with a range of over 5,500km.
The report says there is "no universal agreement within the US intelligence community on the issue of an Iranian ICBM."
Some say, the report states, that Iran could test one by 2010 or 2015; others that there is a "less than even chance for such a test before 2015."
This offer, though, is evidence of the new thinking in Washington and of a desire both to resolve the Iranian problem, which could burst into a major crisis in due course, and to improve relations with Moscow.
It goes hand in hand with an American attempt to extend a hand to Iran as well.
US-Russian relations have been less confrontational since Mr Obama became president
US and Russian leaders have been less confrontational since the Obama administration came into office.
Now that goodwill has to be turned into the nitty-gritty of policy.
The US Under-Secretary of State, William Burns, who delivered the letter, told the Russian news agency Interfax: "If through strong diplomacy with Russia and our other partners we can reduce or eliminate [the] threat, it obviously shapes the way in which we look at missile defence."
The US Defence Secretary Robert Gates also said recently: "I told the Russians a year ago that if there no were Iranian missile programme, there would be no need for the missile sites."
And Russia's President Dmitry Medvedev said last weekend: "We have already received... signals from our American colleagues. I expect that these signals will turn into concrete proposals."
The offer will be discussed by the US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and the Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov at their first meeting in Geneva on Friday.
That will not decide the issue which will be further explored in the first meeting between presidents Obama and Medvedev on 2 April in London, where they will both be attending the G20 economic meeting.
The offer comes as the International Atomic Energy Agency, which monitors Iran's enrichment development on the ground, is reporting that Iran has accumulated more than 1,000kg of low-enriched uranium.
If enriched to a much higher degree, this would be enough to make a nuclear device, according to the Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, Admiral Michael Mullen.
However, Mr Gates himself said of Iran: "They're not close to a weapon at this point, and so there is some time."
Iran has said it has no intention of making a nuclear bomb and is enriching for nuclear power only.
To build a bomb, it would have to expel the IAEA inspectors, enrich its uranium to the higher level needed and leave the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, under which it is committed not to acquire nuclear weapons.
It would also need to be able to build a warhead and place it on a delivery system such as a missile.
All this would declare its intentions so openly that an attack on its nuclear plants by Israel and/or the United States, or even a wider coalition, would follow almost inevitably.


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Carey Lea silver hydrosol is a rare example of very concentrated colloidal solutions produced with citrate as only protective ligands, and prospective for a wide range of applications, whose properties have been insufficiently studied up to now. Herein, the reactivity of the immobilized silver nanoparticles toward oxidation, sulfidation, and sintering upon their interaction with hydrogen peroxide, sulfide ions, and chlorocomplexes of Au(III), Pd(II), and Pt(IV) was investigated using SEM and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The reactions decreased the number of carboxylic groups of the citrate-derived capping and promoted coalescence of 7 nm Ag NPs into about 40 nm ones, excluding the interaction with hydrogen peroxide. The increased nanoparticles form loose submicrometer aggregates in the case of sulfide treatment, raspberry-like micrometer porous particles in the media containing Pd(II) chloride, and densely sintered particles in the reaction with inert H2
complexes, probably via the formation of surface Ag-Pt alloys. The exposure of Ag NPs to HAuCl4
solution produced compact Ag films along with nanocrystals of Au metal and minor Ag and AgCl. The results are promising for chemical ambient temperature sintering and rendering silver-based nanomaterials, for example, for flexible electronics, catalysis, and other applications.
This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License
which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited

domain: chemistry


text: Richard Goodman is the author of French Dirt: The Story of a Garden in the South of France. He is also the author of A New York Memoir and The Soul of Creative Writing. His book, The Bicycle Diaries: One New Yorker's Journey Through September 11th, with original wood engravings by Gaylord Schanilec, was published in 2011. He has written for The New York Times, Harvard Review, Creative Nonfiction, Vanity Fair, The Writer's Chronicle, The Louisville Review, Saveur, Ascent, River Teeth, Chautauqua and the Michigan Quarterly Review. Richard Goodman is an Assistant Professor of Creative Nonfiction Writing at the University of New Orleans.

domain: artistic


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Wedding invitations are such an expense for something that is really just a bit of printing. Don’t get me wrong, there are some amazing invitation designs out there that I absolutely could not do myself, however for us the expense was just not worth it. There are a few options you can consider when your budget is tight and you really want to make your own. Even my non-creative friends made their own wedding invitations and they were wonderful so you definitely can!
>> Pin Me! <<
DIY Wedding Invitations
Print and stamp
This method can be quite time consuming but if you have lots of time and no money then it’s perfect for you! All you need is a printer, some paper and card and a pretty stamp. If you have no flair in digital design it is possible to type up some nice, smart invitations that look nice and can be spruced up with a bit of DIY. Cut out your printed design, stick it on some pretty card and suddenly it looks a bit more fancy. Add in some extras such as some pretty stamping, stuck on diamantes or buttons and wrapped up with a ribbon or twine and you have yourself some cute as a button invitations.
Can’t do digital design but have your heart set on something a bit more professional looking. You can buy invitation designs off etsy that provide you with the digital copies to print off and send yourself. As above you could layer them up with pretty card and you’ve pimped your invitations.
Not traditional and often unexpected, however this is the most budget friendly option out there. Sending out a big online invite is not only faster and cheaper than the traditional method but it also means your RSVPs arrive faster! Bonus. It is possible to pimp this how you like and make it as extravagant as you like and know that you will surprise people!
I know this option isn’t for everyone but this is how we made our invitations and it was easier than you think. From making my blog graphics I already had experience using Canva which is a wonderful drag and drop graphics creator that means that even the least creative of you can make something lovely looking. You can even use some of their prepared designs and simply tweak the colours and wording to suit your needs. With a little good quality paper and card you can print them out, assemble a simple envelope to sit them in and voila! You’re very own wedding invites!
Check out part 2 of this post to see which option we went with with and how we did it!! If you’ve made your own invitations, how did you do it? What method appeals to you the most?
For more wedding inspiration check out my Pinterest:
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domain: design


The European Union has approved a new common patent system designed to cut red tape and streamline procedures across much of Europe.
The European Parliament concluded the drawn-out decision-making process, backing a cluster of packages by a wide majority to end nearly four decades of fighting and negotiating over the issue. Currently, patents are filed in individual EU nations, and ending the convoluted procedure is seen as key to reduce costs and boost innovation with cheaper patents.
EU internal market commissioner Michel Barnier said: “This is a historic agreement because it has taken us many decades to get here.”
A common patent will be in place on 1 January 2014 if judges in the highest EU court dismiss objections by Spain and Italy next year.


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Phobia? Car crash? I can help!
Nearly everyone has a phobia of some sort, but sometimes they really start to interfere with life. Fortunately, there's hope! You don't have to live with this.
For instance, my treatment of severe car phobia, PTSD related to a car accident, has a 100% success rate at eliminating all symptoms usually in one session, often in 15 minutes. More general phobias can also be treated, such as a fear of spiders or snakes. Many people rate their fear of public speaking as greater than their fear of death! I can help with that, too. How do I do it?
-The Flash Technique can be used when an event or memory is responsible for a phobia. Without causing disturbance, it uses a memory recall technique that proves to the deepest parts of the mind that the danger is over. And it's as permanent as finding out that Santa Claus doesn't exist.
-EMDR is normally used as a trauma therapy, but has a well-established and researched "phobia protocol." This technique can be used when a phobia is more complex than simply the result of a memory. Sometimes a traumatic event like the death of a loved one can cause a phobia, and curing the disturbance of the memory usually gets rid of the phobia also.
-EMDR can also be used to alter self-belief at a core level using "future templates of action," and this is good with public speaking or performance anxiety. For instance, a recent EMDR research study cured a golfer's career-ruining slice, without ever having him hold a golf club. It was all in his mind.
-Hypnotherapy can be used for some of the most complex cases, strengthening the ego and offering very "real" practice of the feared activity through guided imagery. This effect is similar to how hypnosis can cure bad habits, because phobias are very similar. Hypnosis is more successful with phobias than smoking, for instance, because very often clients don't completely want to stop smoking, but usually clients are more than ready to get rid of a phobia.

domain: health


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An Arabian Night in Paris
Issued on: Modified:
The Arab World Institute in Paris held its annual International Poetry Night at the weekend, featuring performances from the Arab-speaking world throughout Saturday night. RFI correspondent Arnab Béranger was at the event. He spoke to three women poets, who talked of poetry as an emotional and political tool. He also visited an all-night 'Migrant's Kitchen' that was set up for the occasion.
Click the 'play' button above to listen to the audio report, or subscribe to our podcast by searching 'RFI international report.
You can also see the video below.


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A childhood friend of mine became a father for the first time this summer, and, since I was going to see his parents today, I thought it would be nice to make a hat for his baby. Since I'm all about snowflakes right now it was easy to decide what type of hat to make!
I used Elizabeth Roggasch's Half Double Crochet Beanie as a base for the hat. Hdcs are my favourite stitch to use for a hat because it doesn't take too long to grow, they have give, and they're really easy to attach things to afterwards. This is a really nice pattern because it gives measurement guidelines so you know even if your gauge is off (mine always is) that your hat will be the right size.
I used Caron Simply Soft yarn in Blue Mint for the main body of the hat. I used White in the same yarn for the edging and snowflake, held together with Twilleys of Stamford Goldfingering in white. It's hard to see from the photo, but it gives it a little bit of sparkle.For more information on specific yarns etc, see my project on Ravelry.
I intended to make the 3-6 month size, but lost concentration and wound up with 54 stitches on round 6 instead of 50. However, I have tight tension and when I measured it seemed to be the correct size (even though it wound up being the 6-9month size as written). Also I wanted to end up with a multiple of three stitches on the last round. The other main modification I made was working in a spiral rather than rounds; this meant I avoided having a seam. I finished up with a border of scs in white with a picot (ch3, sl st into first ch) every three stitches.
For the snowflake, I used a 3.5mm hook to make my Snowflake Wishes 2 snowflake. I sewed it on to the hat making sure to sew down the ch5s from the snowflake to the hat to prevent it from curling.
I'm really pleased with how this came out, especially since it was so simple to do! Worth bearing in mind making something like this for a last minute Christmas present :)


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There’s nothing quite as comforting as cozying up underneath a handmade quilt. The feel of the fabric and the love that went into making it makes for a special kind of warmth impossible to replicate. However, before you get lost in the ribbons and bows of your favorite textile, it’s important to know the difference between batting and wadding. Each element plays a crucial role in the final product and can make all the difference in the quality and longevity of your quilt. So, let’s dive into the heart of the matter and discover the heartfelt difference between batting and wadding, and why it matters to both quilters and non-quilters alike.
1. The Warmth of a Quilt: Why Every Home Needs One
As the chill of winter sets in, there is no better feeling than snuggling up under a warm, cozy quilt. Quilts are more than just blankets; they are a piece of art that adds a personal touch to any room. But quilts are not just for looks; they serve a practical purpose too. They offer warmth and comfort to those who wrap themselves up in them.
Quilts come in all shapes, sizes, and styles, from simple charm quilts to elaborate appliqued designs. They can be made from a variety of materials, including cotton, wool, and even silk. Each quilt has its own unique charm that is sure to brighten up any home. Quilts can be used as bedspreads, on couches and chairs, or simply draped over a favorite chair to add a pop of color and warmth to any room.
Quilts have a long history, dating back to ancient times when they were often made from scraps of fabric that were left over from making clothing. Women would gather these scraps and piece them together to create a warm covering that could be used during the colder months. Today, quilts are still made in much the same way, with designs that range from the simple to the intricate.
Quilts are not just for decoration or for keeping warm; they are also a symbol of love and family. Quilts have traditionally been given as gifts to mark special occasions like weddings and births. These quilts often contain special messages or symbols that have meaning for the recipient. Quilts are also a way for families to connect with their heritage, with many quilts being passed down from generation to generation.
In addition to their practical use, quilts also have a spiritual and emotional significance. The process of making a quilt is often seen as a form of meditation, with each stitch representing a prayer or a wish for the recipient. Quilts are also seen as a symbol of community, with many groups coming together to create a single quilt. These quilts often tell a story, with each piece representing a different member of the group.
In conclusion, every home should have a quilt. They are more than just blankets; they are a piece of history, a symbol of love and family, and a way to connect with our heritage. Whether you choose a simple quilt or an elaborate design, a quilt is a perfect addition to any home. So, why not wrap yourself up in the warmth of a quilt and experience the comfort and joy they bring?
2. The Heartfelt Difference: Discovering the True Meaning Behind Your Quilt
Quilting is not just a pastime activity that involves cutting fabric and sewing them together. It is an art form that has always held a special place in people’s hearts. Quilting is a unique craft that expresses a depth of emotion through the use of colours, patterns, and fabrics that can’t be matched by any other art form.
When you create a quilt, you are making something that is both functional and deeply personal. The process of quilting, from the design stage to the finished product, involves intricate attention to detail, endless hours of work, and boundless love. Every quilt, whether it’s a patchwork quilt, a crazy quilt or an applique quilt, tells a story.
Quilting holds many meanings for people. For some, it is a way of preserving family history, for others it is a way of honouring important life milestones or commemorating special events. Whatever the reason for creating one, each quilt reflects the heart and soul of the quilter.
The true beauty of quilting is the connection it creates between the person who creates the quilt and the person for whom it is intended. It is a way of sharing a piece of ourselves with others, of passing on our love and wisdom, and of creating a timeless gift that will be cherished for generations to come.
In the end, the true meaning behind a quilt is something that can only be felt, not explained. Whether you are creating a quilt for yourself or for someone else, take the time to infuse it with your heart and soul. Make it special, make it unique, and most importantly, make it heartfelt. Because in the end, the difference between a quilt and a piece of fabric is the love and care that was put into it.
3. The Battle of Batting vs. Wadding: Which One is Right for You?
The age-old question of batting versus wadding can leave many quilters feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to choose. But fear not, fellow quilters! We are here to guide you through the battle and help you determine what is right for you!
First up, let’s take a look at batting. This is the middle layer of a quilt and comes in a variety of materials such as cotton, wool, polyester, and even bamboo! Each material has its own unique properties, but most importantly, batting provides warmth and comfort to your quilt. Depending on the type of batting you choose, it can also add extra texture and dimension to your project. So, if you’re someone who values warmth and texture, then batting might just be the way to go!
But on the other hand, wadding offers its own unique benefits. Wadding, also known as interfacing, adds structure and stability to your quilt. It’s perfect for those who want a bit more firmness in their quilting project. Additionally, wadding can be used in a variety of crafts such as bags, pot holders, and even fabric books! So, if you’re someone who wants to add a bit of structure to your quilts or delve into other crafty endeavors, then wadding might just be the right choice for you.
Now, how does one make the final decision? It all comes down to personal preference and the type of project you’re working on. If you’re making a cozy quilt for the winter months, then batting might be the best choice for you. Or perhaps you’re creating a wall hanging that needs a bit more structure, in which case wadding would be the way to go.
Remember, there’s no right or wrong choice when it comes to batting versus wadding. It’s all about what works best for you and your project. So, take a deep breath, trust your instincts, and go with your gut when making the final decision.
In summary, whether you choose batting or wadding, know that you’re making the right decision for your specific project. Each has its own unique properties and benefits, so weigh your options and decide what’s best for you. And above all, have fun and enjoy the journey of quilting – whichever material you choose!
4. The Surprising Benefits of Wadding: From Breathability to Insulation
Wadding is a term often used when referring to a material that is designed to provide comfort and support. Many people associate wadding with quilts, blankets, and other forms of bedding, but this versatile material has many surprising benefits that extend far beyond its traditional uses.
For starters, wadding is known for its breathability. This means that it can allow air to circulate freely, which helps to regulate your body temperature. Whether you’re sleeping under a wadded duvet or wearing clothing made from wadding, you can be sure that you’ll stay comfortable and cool throughout the day.
But that’s not all. Wadding is also incredibly lightweight, making it ideal for travel. If you’re planning a trip and want to pack lightly, consider bringing a wadded jacket or sleeping bag. They’ll keep you warm and cozy without adding any unnecessary bulk to your luggage.
Another surprising benefit of wadding is its insulation properties. When used in clothing or bedding, wadding can trap air pockets, which helps to keep you warm in cold weather. And because wadding is often made from natural materials like cotton and wool, it is a sustainable and eco-friendly option compared to synthetic alternatives.
Wadding is also incredibly versatile. It can be used in a wide range of products, from mattresses and pillows to stuffed toys and even car seats. When used in upholstery, wadding can provide additional comfort and cushioning, making your furniture more comfortable and supportive.
Finally, wadding is easy to care for. Because it is often machine-washable, you can keep your wadded products clean and fresh with minimal effort. And because wadding is naturally hypoallergenic, it’s a great choice for people with allergies or sensitive skin.
In conclusion, wadding is a surprisingly versatile material with numerous benefits, from its breathability and light weight to its insulation properties and sustainability. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable duvet or a cozy jacket, wadding is a great choice that will keep you warm, comfortable, and happy for years to come.
5. Batting: The Classic Choice for Your Quilting Needs
Batting is the heart and soul of a quilt. It gives your creation the warmth and texture that defines it as a masterpiece. Choosing the right batting is a crucial step in creating a quilt that not only looks good but also feels good. Here are five reasons why batting is the classic choice for your quilting needs:
1. Versatility: Batting comes in different materials, weights, and lofts. You can choose from cotton, wool, polyester, or blends. You can also choose the thickness or loft that suits your project. Whether you’re making a lightweight summer quilt or a heavy winter one, there’s a batting that’s perfect for your needs.
2. Comfort: Batting provides the padding that makes your quilt comfortable to use. It gives your quilt a soft feel that warms the body and the soul. A well-made quilt is not only a piece of art but also a source of comfort, and batting is what makes it possible.
3. Durability: Batting helps your quilt last longer by protecting it from wear and tear. It acts as a barrier between the fabric layers and prevents them from rubbing against each other. Good batting can withstand repeated washings and maintain its shape, loft, and softness.
4. Design: Batting is an important element in the design of your quilt. It affects the drape, the stitch definition, and the overall look of your quilt. Choosing the right batting can enhance the texture and depth of your quilt and make it more visually appealing.
5. Tradition: Batting has been used in quilts for centuries, and it is still the most popular choice among quilters. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to connect us with our ancestors and their crafting traditions. By using batting in our quilts, we honor the legacy of those who came before us and pass on the art to future generations.
In conclusion, batting is more than just a filler for your quilt. It is an essential part of the process that defines the character and quality of your creation. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced quilter, choosing the right batting can make all the difference in your final product. So, take your time, explore your options, and select the batting that speaks to your heart.
6. Why Size Matters: Finding the Perfect Amount of Batting or Wadding for Your Quilt
Quilting is an art form that requires a lot of care and attention to detail. One of the most important components of a quilt is the batting or wadding. It’s what gives a quilt its warmth, depth, and texture. If you don’t get the right amount of batting or wadding, your quilt won’t be able to live up to its full potential.
The amount of batting or wadding you need depends on a few factors. One of the most important things to consider is the size of your quilt. A small quilt will require less batting or wadding than a large one. The thickness and loft of the batting or wadding will also impact the amount you need.
When choosing batting or wadding, it’s important to consider the intended use of your quilt. If you’re creating a quilt for a bed, you’ll need a thicker batting or wadding for added warmth. If you’re creating a wall hanging or decorative quilt, a thinner batting or wadding may be sufficient.
If you’re unsure about the amount of batting or wadding you need, it’s always better to purchase a little extra. You can always trim it down to the exact size you need. Having extra batting or wadding can also come in handy when making adjustments to the thickness and loft of your quilt.
Another important factor to consider when choosing batting or wadding is the type of fibers used. Natural fibers such as cotton and wool are breathable and lightweight, making them great for summer quilts. Synthetic fibers like polyester are heavier and more durable, making them great for winter quilts and heavier decorative pieces.
In the end, finding the perfect amount of batting or wadding for your quilt comes down to trial and error. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types and thicknesses until you find the perfect combination. With a little practice and patience, you’ll be able to create beautiful quilts that are warm, cozy, and full of character.
7. Don’t Get Tangled Up in Your Quilt: How to Choose the Right Material for Your Project
Material selection is a crucial step in quilting, but with so many options available, it’s easy to get caught up in indecision. It’s essential to choose the right material for your project to ensure not getting tangled up in your quilt. A quilt is not just another piece of clothing that you can stitch from any material. It’s a personal project that you’ll treasure for years and may pass down to generations.
Firstly, pay close attention to the texture of the fabric. Some materials have a smoother texture that glides over the needle, while some are thicker and can be challenging to maneuver, resulting in lumps and bumps. For example, cotton is an excellent choice for beginners as it has a smooth texture and is easy to manage. On the other hand, wool or silk may be challenging to work with, so start with cotton to gain expertise.
Another aspect to consider is the color and pattern of your material. The color of your fabric should complement the pattern and the style of your quilt. If you’re making a bold and bright quilt, match it with colorful fabrics. In contrast, a quilt with a mild and straightforward design will look best with matching hues. Sometimes, it might be best not to choose a patterned material at all, depending on the type of pattern you’ll use for your quilt.
The type of quilt project you’ll work on also dictates the material you should use. For instance, if you’re making a quilt that you intend to use regularly, go for more durable fabrics. The predominant material of the quilt should be sturdier, with cotton sashing and binding to keep the quilt edges from unraveling. However, if you’re making a quilt that will only be hung on a wall, you can opt for a lighter and softer fabric.
If you’re struggling to decide the appropriate fabric to use, ask for advice from quilting experts or an experienced quilter. They have knowledge and experience in the appropriate fabric you should use. You can also explore various quilting websites for inspiration. Explore the various materials that quilters use and the results they get with each type of fabric.
In conclusion, choosing the right material for your quilt is essential for the success and longevity of your quilt. Take your time when selecting the material for your project, and don’t hesitate to seek assistance. Remember, your quilt is a representation of your dedication and love. Choose the right fabric, avoid getting tangled up in your quilt, and enjoy the journey!
8. To Sew or Not to Sew: Understanding Quilt Bindings and Their Importance
Quilt bindings play a crucial role in giving a quilt its final finish. Without proper binding, your quilt looks incomplete and loses its charm. It’s the binding that holds the entire quilt together and protects the raw edges of the quilt from wear and tear. In my opinion, binding is the most crucial part of the quilting process.
But here’s the catch! Sewing quilt binding is like testing your patience. It requires a lot of patience and accuracy. If you are not up for it, hand your quilt to a professional. However, if you’re up for the challenge, I say, go for it!
When it comes to quilt bindings, there are numerous options available. So, how do you choose? Here are five different ways to bind your quilt:
1. Single fold binding: This binding method works best for quilts that aren’t subjected to excessive wear and tear. It’s simple to make and looks beautiful.
2. Double fold binding: This is my favorite binding method, as it provides a clean and durable finish. It requires more fabric and a little more effort than single fold binding, but it’s worth it.
3. Bias binding: Bias binding is made from a strip of fabric cut at a 45-degree angle. This binding method is perfect for quilts with curved edges.
4. Piped binding: Piped binding adds a beautiful decorative touch to your quilt. It’s not as durable as other binding methods, but it does add an exceptional finish.
5. Scallop binding: This binding method creates a beautiful wavy edge that complements the curves in your quilt. It’s challenging to make, but the results are worth the effort.
Choosing the right binding method depends on the fabric you’re using, the purpose of the quilt, and of course, your personal preference.
In conclusion, as I mentioned earlier, binding is the most important part of the quilting process. It’s what gives your quilt the final touch, and it’s what makes it stand out. You may find it challenging at first, but practice makes perfect. So, go ahead, choose your binding method, and sew your way to a fantastic finish!
9. The Heartfelt Art of Quilting: Elevating Your Craft with Premium Materials
Quilting is more than just a craft. It is a form of self-expression and love that has been passed down for generations. From selecting the perfect fabrics to hand-stitching intricate designs, the heart and soul put into creating a quilt is what makes it truly special.
However, the quality of materials used play a significant role in the finished product. Choosing premium fabrics and thread elevates your craft and adds a sense of luxury to the final piece. Fabrics like silk, linen, and organic cotton not only improve the overall look and feel of the quilt but also make it more durable.
One of the most significant benefits of using premium materials is the emotional connection they create. Knowing that the quilt was made with the finest materials available brings a sense of pride and satisfaction. Moreover, the lifespan of the quilt increases, making it more likely to be passed down from generation to generation.
Premium materials also offer a sense of versatility in quilting. They can present new opportunities to create intricate designs and unexpected color combinations. Adding high-quality materials to a quilt means that the piece will become a true work of art that will be displayed and cherished for years to come.
Quilting demands patience, skill and passion in every stitch. It allows for a therapeutic and meditative process to occur, where one can truly escape from the stress of daily life. Utilizing premium materials adds an extra layer of mindfulness to the process, enabling quilters to immerse themselves even deeper into their work and to create a truly heartfelt piece.
In the end, the art of quilting is all about creating something beautiful and meaningful. By choosing top-notch materials, one can take their craft to the next level, producing an incredibly special piece with a caliber of quality that is unparalleled.
10. Warmth, Love, and Comfort: Sharing the Heartfelt Joy of Quilting with Others
Quilting is an art form that provides warmth, love, and comfort. It’s not just a hobby but a heartfelt joy that uplifts the spirit of both the creator and the receiver. The beauty of quilting lies in its ability to spread love and compassion through a simple yet intricate patchwork of fabrics. With every stitch, quilters pour their hearts into their work, creating an unforgettable masterpiece that speaks to the soul.
When you give a quilt to someone, you’re not just handing them a piece of fabric. You’re giving them a part of yourself, a symbol of your love and care. That’s why it’s so special to give a quilt to someone in need. Quilts provide warmth and comfort for those going through challenging times, whether it’s a sick friend or a community devastated by natural disasters. The gift of a quilt can have a powerful impact on someone’s life, bringing hope and joy when they need it most.
Aside from the beauty and comfort quilts provide, the craft of quilting itself is also a bonding experience. Quilters come together to share their passion and knowledge, forming a community that supports and encourages each other. There’s something special about spending hours stitching with a group of people who share the same love for quilting. The conversations flow effortlessly, friendships are formed, and memories are created that will last a lifetime.
Quilting also provides a sense of accomplishment and creative expression. Each quilt is a unique work of art, reflecting the quilter’s personal style and individuality. Making a quilt requires patience, focus, and attention to detail, but the end result is always worth it. Quilting allows you to express yourself in a way that nothing else can, producing an item that will be cherished for years to come.
In conclusion, quilting is more than just a craft; it’s a way of life. It provides warmth, love, and comfort to both the creator and the receiver. Quilting brings people together, fosters friendships, and creates a sense of belonging. It’s a form of creative expression that allows you to pour your heart and soul into your work. So, if you haven’t tried quilting yet, give it a shot. You might just discover a newfound passion that will change your life forever. In the end, it’s not just about batting or wadding. It’s about the heart and soul that goes into every stitch and every quilt. It’s about the joy of creating something warm and beautiful with your own two hands. So whether you’re a seasoned quilter or a curious beginner, remember to keep your heart in every stitch and your passion in every quilt. And never forget, the true beauty of a quilt lies not just in its warmth, but in the love that goes into making it. Thanks for reading, and happy quilting!


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Unformatted text preview: Topic: Voice T Human Voice (voc): most natural instrument H soprano: upper register, highest female voice s alto: middle register, female voice a tenor: highest natural male voice t baritone: low tenor/light bass, male voice b Commonly not considered separate category of voice but is found in rock music r bass: lowest register, male voice b Timbre: the texture, quality of sound T Intonation: the art of being in tune I two types of poor intonation: t Flat: below the pitch of a note F Sharp: above the pitch of a note S If a singer is a little sharp in intonation it is easier on the ears than a flat intonation. i Vibrato: the quivering or wavering of a pitch, warms voice, adds a human element. Also be used by instruments A Can be used to cover poor intonation C Some singers can be identified by their vibrato style S Most singers/musicians use vibrato in their style M Falsetto: male technique of upper register singing- head tone, singing way up in the head- mainstay of R&R h African Roots A Call and Response: C technique between individual and group, (leader and congregation, voice and guitar, lead singer and back-up vocalists, soloist and rhythm section) r buzzing or roughing the sound b bent tones called "blue notes" b Blues: Vocal style and song form B original was a means of self expression for new African -American musicians Lyrics are poetic, words emphasized by blue notes with tension & release Acoustic Guitar (ac. guit) ("acoustic" refers to resonance in a sound chamber.) ( number one instrument of choice by self taught musician n acoustic guitars consist of 6 or 12 strings and hollow body a frets are the metal bars on the neck of acoustic guitars used as finger guides f acoustic guitar is a global instrument, also know as the Spanish, folk, or classical guitar g acoustic guitars dates back 5000 years to Egypt a popular in 16th century Europe p brought to rural America- used early in Country blues b Late '30s: primitive amplification of acoustic guitars L Late '40s: better amplified acoustic guitars L Early '50s: first solid-bodied electric guitars 1960s: acoustic guitar takes a back seat as the electric guitar assumes lead and solo guitar spots- acoustic guitar was used in the Folk Revival, and by R&R bands for rhythm and texture Continued use in C&W- also pedal steel guitar r 1970s: Acoustic guitars used in Art Rock, and some Hard Rock bands, while electric guitar still dominates 1980s: Acoustic guitars reemerges in unplugged sessions, alternative groups, and used on ballads for its unique sound Topic: Electric Guitar T Electric Guitar (el. guit. or elec. guit.) E has dominated the sound of Rock for 40 years h term electric guitar includes amplified acoustic guitar & solid body electric guitar g 6 or 12 strings 6 uses metal frets along neck of guitar as finger guides u History of solid bodied Electric Guitar: 1952- Les Paul- innovative guitarist worked on a solid bodied electric guitar 1 1954- Leo Fender- builds model for future R&R electric guitarists...
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- Spring '08

domain: entertainment


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Lego Valentines Cards (Set of 15)
Brand: Pike and Pine Paper
*This product will not ship until Monday, January 30*
Perfect for the lego lover in your life!
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In the last few years, the opportunities and challenges posed by Artificial Intelligence (AI) have become the subject of a widespread public debate, as numerous AI applications are developed across major industries, making AI increasingly integrated into all aspects of our daily life. The term “Artificial Intelligence” first appeared in 1955, when Stanford Professor John McCarthy coined it to refer to “the science and engineering of making intelligent machines, especially intelligent computer programs”. Since then, the technology has evolved dramatically, showing its potential to revolutionise every industry, including renewable energy.
In the solar PV industry, AI can contribute to process the considerable amount of data coming from PV projects more quickly and efficiently. The input drawn from this analysis improves asset management and constitutes a powerful strategic tool to guide the project owners’ decision-making processes to maximise their return on investment. Some of these AI-based processes are related to automated inspections, energy forecasting, demand response, and performance analytics, and include:
- Drone infrared (IR) flyovers: instead of using representative samples, fleets of drones make it possible to perform IR scans of entire PV sites, thus optimising the inspection time. The raw data created by these sitewide scans is then analysed by AI models; and then, if needed, further ground IR testing may be performed on specific areas.
- Smart” Data Acquisition System (DAS) integration: Alarms have always been a part of DAS, but AI contributes to improve the accuracy and relevance of the information provided. Some Smart DAS service providers now generate monthly reports with detailed information and recommendations, such as optimal washing dates of certain module strings, or inform of systemic inverter-specific issues, together with the number of days after which critical failures are to be expected.
- Machine Learning (ML) performance analytics: Similar to Smart DAS, stand-alone performance analysis has started to rely more on ML techniques in order to discover the aforementioned systemic issues. With data available sometimes in a 1-minute (or even sub-minute) temporal resolution, that can be combined with data coming from some years of operation, ML models are becoming robust enough to be relied upon for noteworthy observations.
- Module defect detection: Anomalies in solar panels can be identified using special cameras that capture IR and electroluminescence (EL) images. If defects are present in a module, specific patterns will be generated, making it possible to identify and classify them. With these metrics, it is possible to generate robust ML models to automatically analyse and point out the areas affected by the defects, also determining their impact on the performance of the device.
- Energy forecasting: AI models can be used to forecast expected productionoutput of PV projects, sometimes days ahead of real time. This calculation relies on the quality of the weather forecasts, and it is used by owners of power plants and utilities to plan daily operations.
- Demand response: Using similar tactics, utilities employ end user consumption data to predict future demand on the grid. This enables utilities to determine how much more or how much less energy will be needed. Depending on the situation, operating PV plants can be curtailed due to oversaturation, or additional power stations (e.g., traditional power plants) can be fired up to meet the energy demand.
- Performance analytics: AI can be used to monitor and optimise the performance of solar PV projects in real time. AI algorithms can be used to analyse data from sensors and other monitoring devices to identify issues and inefficiencies, and to recommend adjustments to improve performance.
At Enertis Applus+, specific AI-based tools like the Advanced Performance Analytics Application (A-PAA) and Smart PV Inspection Tool (SPI) have been developed to perform tasks related to items (1), (3) and (4).
Part of running a PV plant involves properly maintaining the equipment onsite to maximise power output. With several thousands of modules and hundreds of inverters on any given site, this task has proven to be very challenging. Until recent years, PV project owners had to send a licensed professional to the site to perform a walkthrough and take photos and infrared scans of a representative sample of modules. The expert would then make general recommendations on how to proceed with fixing and replacing modules, or even reset the expectations for power output. These processes may take a long time, especially when modules must be shipped to a third-party testing laboratory. This means that it may be weeks before systemic issues are discovered and solved, thus negatively impacting potential project financing opportunities, as well as Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) and construction timelines.
Recent advances in technology and software development have provided a solution to accelerate such long processes by using a combination of drone IR flyovers and AI models. The Smart PV Inspection Tool (SPI), for example, brings speed and accuracy to IR drone inspections of solar assets. It is responsible for processing, in a matter of minutes, the thousands of images that are collected from IR flyovers, searching for multiple types of defects that may impact the performance of an asset, automatically classifying their criticality, and geolocating the faulty modules within the plant. It guarantees the delivery of the final results in a couples of days, allowing for a quick response of the project owners. Further time optimisation can be achieved using mobile laboratories, that can be sent to the PV plant to perform onsite testing of the faulty modules, saving time and money.
Asset performance analysis is another central point where AI is helping analysts to obtain more information out of the data recorded from the SCADA systems. Traditional monthly performance analysis provides a more high-level view of system health and cannot inform on how much potential production was lost due to downtime events or other losses. The combination of advanced data science tools and ML models has opened new frontiers, allowing data processing at any component hierarchical level, and at small intervals such as 1-minute timestep.
An example of this is Enertis Applus+ Advanced Performance Analytics Application (A-PAA), used to calculate key metrics such as the real PR evolution for each component, how much energy has been lost during downtime events at the meter level all the way up to the string level, and the optimal behavior of the different device types based on their historical data. Separate analysis can also be conducted to determine losses due different causes, such as long-term system degradation, utility-enforced curtailment, soiled modules, non-functioning single-axis trackers, and to calculate actual Ohmic losses between the inverter and point-of-interconnection.
As with other AI-tools, the results of an A-PAA run can be used to help fine-tune forward-looking P50 expectations, as well as to inform project owners and asset managers of the most likely culprits of the sub-performance. Another attractive capability of such architecture is its ability to process any type of information provided, regardless of the data format. Therefore, if a portfolio has multiples PV plants with different SCADA systems, they can all be integrated into one single platform, thus centralising the information, and allowing for a direct comparison of the performance across the assets.
To conclude, it is clear that AI applications are already playing a key role in transforming the solar PV industry, as they contribute to improve the efficiency and security of PV plants, and in pushing the transition towards a more sustainable energy system. Looking ahead, we expect research on Large Language Models (LLM) to explore their impact on our industry. There are exciting times ahead for clean power.
Written by Lucas Viani, Data Science Team Manager, and Brian Custodio, Director, Data Science and Consulting for North America. Published in May’s issue of Energetica Magazine.


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by C. Elkins, OK Math and Reading Lady
Read aloud time is an important daily routine (for PreK – 5th). It’s not just for primary students. According to an article in Reading Rockets (https://www.readingrockets.org/article/reading-aloud-build-comprehension), Reading aloud is the foundation for literacy development. It is the single most important activity for reading success (Bredekamp, Copple, & Neuman, 2000). It provides children with a demonstration of phrased, fluent reading (Fountas & Pinnell, 1996). It reveals the rewards of reading, and develops the listener’s interest in books and desire to be a reader (Mooney, 1990).
What are the benefits?
- Teacher models good reading (not an internet book)
- Reading is for enjoyment – so this is a story outside of the assigned reading curriculum for the week
- There are great books available to spark the imagination and provide motivation to read
- Students get practice making mental pictures (when listening to a chapter book)
- Enhances listening comprehension
- Vocabulary can be introduced in an informal way
- Students learn about the author’s voice and point of view
- Books can be compared (author, characters, genre)
- Characters can be explored deeply if reading a series by the same author
- Great comprehension skills to reflect on informally: predict, cause-effect, sequence, compare-contrast, inference, theme
- A calm atmosphere
- Students feel more free to discuss aspects of the read-aloud (because there aren’t worksheets or tests involved)
- Able to listen to books above independent reading level
- Builds connections and classroom community (Example: “This is a book about . . . . What experience have you had with this?”)
- Got a problem to solve (Friendship, etc.)? You can probably find a book about that topic
- Younger students learn valuable concepts of print by participating in the shared reading of a big book
I know this precious read aloud time is often omitted due to tight schedules. If so, please examine your schedule to see if you can shave a little time in other places to include this important routine. Here’s a great article about ways to fit read-aloud time into your busy schedule: https://www.scholastic.com/teachers/blog-posts/juan-gonzales/17-18/3-ideas-on-how-to-create-more-read-aloud-time-the-classroom/
At the beginning of the year when you are establishing procedures, be sure to make an anchor chart for read aloud expectations. Refer to the Daily 5 for great ideas. Things to consider:
- Will children be on the floor or at their desks?
- Will you allow doodling while you read? (There are differing opinions on this.)
- How will you handle blurting (or not blurting) and discussion time?
- Videotape yourself to analyze your reading — Do you enjoy listening to yourself? If your voice sounds varied and interesting, your students most likely will be actively listening (rather than disrupting or falling asleep).
- Choose books which encourage mental visualization. Check with your librarian if you need some advice.
- With chapter books, choose those with interesting characters and riveting chapter endings (makes studens eager to listen the next day).
Final research note: The U.S. Department of Education Commission on Reading took into account over 10,000 studies and found that the most important activity for building the skills and background for eventual success in reading is reading aloud to children (see Anderson, Hiebert, Scott, & Wilkinson, 1985). Children who are read to are usually the very best readers in the classroom, and they acquire large vocabularies, write well, and do better in other subject areas, as well.
What are your favorite read-alouds? Please share! (indicate grade level range too)
Some of mine for 2nd-4th graders: A Toad for Tuesday (by Russel Erickson), the Flat Stanley books, Snot Stew (by Bill Wallace)

domain: library


Most cities are no longer under hard lockdown restrictions, and gyms have begun reopening to allow fitness-deprived members through their doors. At the same time, the spike in COVID-19 cases nationwide is something many of these same people are leery of.
So, what’s the best course of action for those who want to...
Stream Data Centers Prepares to Open in Phoenix this Summer with Cox Business as a Key Fiber Provider
Stream Data Center - Vimeo
Since going into lockdown due to COVID-19, Nintendo’s Switch game 'Animal Crossing: New Horizons' has exploded in popularity, leading to a


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Looking at Biodiesel through a Chicken House Window Biodiesel production provides an often overlooked benefit to poultry and livestock farmers – savings on soybean meal to feed their animals. As biodiesel demand rises, so does the demand for soybean oil. The added demand increases soybean crush volume, which puts more soybean meal on the market.
Transportation impacts your bottom line
Yield you want. Demand you need.
Your Soy Checkoff Supports Your Profitability
Stop That Yield Robber In Its Tracks
The District of Columbia Water Authority is one of the largest water municipalities in the world, serving sites including the Washington Monument, the Capitol and the White House. After successfully running 615 vehicles on biodiesel for five years, the utility’s fleet management division signed on to participate in a demonstration project sponsored by the United
The American Lung Association of the Upper Midwest (ALAUM) believes good lung health begins at home, or more precisely inside the homes of all consumers. The organization says soy-based products are a great way to breathe easier. “Biobased products made with soybean oil contain less toxins and harmful chemicals than petrochemicals,” ALAUM Director of Environmental
Biodiesel production provides an often overlooked benefit to poultry and livestock farmers – savings on soybean meal to feed their animals. Animal producers look for the best feeds at the most competitive prices, and biodiesel helps keep the cost of high-quality soybean meal competitive. As biodiesel demand rises, so does the demand for soybean oil.

domain: agronomy


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A tool that allows users to create a personal database of research, download citations and generate accurate, concise bibliographies for research papers.
Note: Off Campus users require Group Code. Get Group Code
RefWorks is a web-based bibliography and database manager that allows users to create their own personal database by importing references from text files or online databases. These references can be used in writing bibliographies for papers and to automatically format the paper and the bibliography in seconds. Various writing styles are accommodated. The RefWorks Write-N-Cite module requires the UT Arlington Group Code. Off-campus users of Write-N-Cite must login using the Group Code to download the free utility. Get Group Code
A free reference manager and academic social network. Make your own fully-searchable library in seconds, cite as you write, and read and annotate your PDFs on any device.
To avoid plagiarizing someone else's words or ideas, make sure you:
Paraphrase the original text into your own words. Be sure you are not just rearranging phrases or replacing a couple of words.
Use quotation marks around text that has been taken directly from the original source.
Cite every source of information you use to write your paper unless it is common knowledge or the results of your own research. This includes facts, figures, and statistics as well as opinions and arguments.


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The British Royal Family has not stopped being in the news in recent months, with the death of Elizabeth II, the succession of Charles and the book published by Prince Harry, the media spotlight is on them.
In recent days, there have been numerous rumors pointing to a crisis in the relationship between Prince William and Kate Middleton.
The English media report that the heir to the throne is said to have spent Valentine’s Day with his alleged mistress, Rose Hanbury.
This woman is a familiar face as she is close to Kate Middleton, and the British tabloids claim that the two have been seeing each other on the sly.
The first time they were photographed together was in 2019, William and Rose were together at a party.
That is why at the time it was claimed that the prince was unfaithful to his wife during her third pregnancy.
And all this created an uproar in the palace and Kate asked her husband to remove her from his circle of friends.
The UK press reports that the heir to the throne spent Valentine’s Day with his alleged mistress.
The two were reportedly having a romantic dinner together and were spotted at a fancy Italian restaurant in the London capital.
According to a waiter at the restaurant, William had given Rose a pearl necklace for Valentine’s Day.
Rose is an old acquaintance of the British Royal Family, having married the seventh Marquess of Cholmondeley, David Rocksavage, in 2009.
Their wedding was two days after she announced she was expecting twins. It was all very rushed. She is Marquess of Cholmondeley after marrying Rocksavage, 23 years her senior.
After ten years of marriage and three children together, Rose and David divorced in 2019, just as rumours of an affair with Prince William began.
#Prince #Williams #incredible #gift #alleged #mistress #Rose #Hanbury

domain: celebrity


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Fujimi 1/24 Nissan Skyline Japan 4Dr. (C210 Late Ver.) Kit FU-03876
- A highly-detailed kit of the Nissan Skyline Japan 4Dr. (C210 Late Ver.).
- Body molded in white, interior and chassis molded in black.
- Features chrome wheels and black rubber tires, plus decals for the exterior and interior.
- A curbside kit, with no engine parts.
- Package Size: 32.3 x 20.5 x 6.5 cm
- Weight: 310 gm


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Medicare cuts hit cancer patients
Doctors cite cost of chemotherapy
Brant Ward, The Chronicle
April 21, 2013 | Updated: April 21, 2013 11:19pmBay Area oncologists say the mandated federal spending cuts that went into effect this month are putting the squeeze on their ability to administer expensive chemotherapy drugs, and some are starting to send their cancer patients on Medicare to hospitals for treatment.
To continue reading this story, you will need to be a digital subscriber to SFChronicle.com.

domain: medical


The Green Party of Canada fully supports the recommendations of a new UN report released today on the state of Canada’s Aboriginal communities.
Authored by United Nations Special Rapporteur on the rights of indigenous peoples, James Anaya, the report urges the federal government to honour its constitutionally mandated duty to consult First Nations on energy projects, including the proposed Site C hydroelectric dam on the Peace River, the Enbridge Northern Gateway pipeline, and the Kinder Morgan Trans Mountain pipeline expansion.
The report also called for a comprehensive national inquiry into the ongoing crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women in Canada.
“Mr. Anaya is undertaking critical work and analysis on the state of Indigenous peoples in Canada and we all need to pay attention to the UN’s findings,” said Lorraine Rekmans, Green Party Aboriginal Affairs Critic.
“Canada’s claim to any moral authority internationally is going to be measured against its poor performance at home. This report is telling and instructive. We have everything we need to make the necessary changes to improve the lives of Indigenous peoples in Canada, the only thing we seem to be short of in this country is honesty and political will.”
“In their single-minded pursuit of resource development, this government has systematically ignored the most fundamental rights of Aboriginal peoples for far too long,” said Elizabeth May, Leader of the Green Party of Canada and Member of Parliament for Saanich–Gulf Islands. “There can be no reconciliation until this government commits to genuinely respectful nation-to-nation dialogue with Canada’s Indigenous peoples.”


Keep your weapon protected and at the ready with Voodoo's fully padded “QUICK-DRAW” scabbard that mounts to your ruck or sling it across your back with the adjustable removable nylon sling.
Double universal straps on each side will accommodate right or left handed shooters. Voodoo has notched the top so your weapon slides out quickly and easily. Holds standard 18" Remington 870’s, Benelli or Mossberg 590.
- Measures 29" overall length.
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Putin praises Army-2017 international military forumMilitary & Defense August 22, 14:15
Belarus invites Ukraine and NATO to monitor West-2017 military drillsMilitary & Defense August 22, 13:55
Russia may develop seven-tonne remote-controlled convertiplaneMilitary & Defense August 22, 13:53
Deliveries of Mi-28NM helicopters may start in 2018Military & Defense August 22, 13:39
Press review: US Embassy's seismic visa shift and Iraq mops up Islamic StatePress Review August 22, 13:00
Russia to grant $700 mln loan to BelarusBusiness & Economy August 22, 12:58
Russia’s Aerospace Force to get eight Mi-28UB helicopters by year-endMilitary & Defense August 22, 12:44
Ka-52 helicopter to be armed with new defense systemMilitary & Defense August 22, 12:00
Rostov-on-Don inferno claims life of one victimSociety & Culture August 22, 11:41
MOSCOW, May 22, 15:57 /ITAR-TASS/. Russia has asked London to give official explanations in connection with comments made by heir to the British throne Prince Charles on the activities of Russian President Vladimir Putin, spokesman for the Russian Foreign Ministry Alexander Lukashevich said on Thursday.
"We have paid attention to a media report about a statement, made by Prince Charles in a private conversation during a visit to Canada. If Prince Charles really made this comment, his words certainly do no honor to the future monarch of Great Britain," Lukashevich said.
"Russia's position on Ukraine, Crimea has been brought home to the world public by the president, prime minister, foreign minister and other representatives of the Russian leadership practically in an everyday regime," Lukashevich said.


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Hello all, and welcome to Words and Pictures - with an especially big welcome to the new followers - it's great to have you with us! I'm sharing an altered gherkin jar with you today - yup, gherkins... how unromantic is that?! But look what it turned into:
And since the inspiration behind this one was Frilly & Funkie's challenge A Light in the Darkness, I should really show you it lit up, shouldn't I?
I had an absolute ball with this one... and I also really like the outcome - a double pleasure, then. I hope you like it too.
The jar was such a lovely shape to start with, with the little lantern-like panels top and bottom. (Note to self: eat more gherkins.)
I used alcohol inks - denim, pearl, and a bit of silver - and some blender to colour the whole of the jar, pouncing the colours on, which is what gets you that lovely textured effect.
On my travels in Craftyblogland, I'd seen a glorious altered jar, using embossing, made by the fabulous Craftimamma, Lesley, of Crafty Love'n'Hugs, so I knew that it would be possible to put some snowflakes onto my twilight-coloured glass.
I took the snowflakes from two Artistic Outpost sets (Sleigh Ride and Snowy Woods) and set to work with Versamark Watermark and Wow Brilliant White embossing powder.
I was careful to heed Lesley's warning about the glass taking a long time to heat up, and an equally long time to cool down again. It sounds as though she found out the hard way - ouch! Thanks for the wise advice, Lesley...
It's also pretty hairy applying the stamp to the glass as it's really easy for it to slide around or smudge, or - since you're rolling it around a slight curvature - to not quite get the edges fully in contact.
If you look very closely at some of the snowflakes, you can see examples of both these things happening, but as Tim Holtz says: Embrace Imperfection!
All that being said, I really enjoyed the process, seeing the snowfall gradually build up around the centre of the jar. And I do love how they look, especially with the light shining through...
On the angled panels around the top and bottom I used the Tim Holtz Distress Stickles Dry Glitter in Clear Rock Candy (bit of a mouthful that... let's see: THDSDGCRC anybody?).
I was tempted in to buying this by the amazing work of Trace at inkypinkycraft, who is - I think she'd agree - addicted to the stuff at the moment.
I'd said to Trace that I wasn't that much of a glitter person, and she assured me that she wasn't either, but that this stuff was different... and it is!! It has a really subtle icy glimmer to it, rather than full-on bling.
I took advantage of my 25% off at The Funkie Junkie Boutique (plus the 10% temporary closing sale - bargains, bargains) to get it, and I'm really glad I did. I love how the crystals sparkle in the candlelight.
I also used some of the THDSDGCRC (I think I'm just gonna call it Dry Glitter, okay?) on my first play with the TH mini-snowflakes decorative strip die (a.k.a. the THMSDSD).
I used one of the neutral pages from the TH Vintage Shabby paper stash, and cut and folded and glued away.
It was a bit fiddly, but I can see that it'll get faster with practice, and since Lord Tim uses a hot glue gun when he's making them, I expect that would be easier than the Glossy Accents I was using too.
Not to worry, it's worth it for the finished effect! I edged it with some Chipped Sapphire DI, and stamped the tiniest snowflake onto the centre piece with Archival Cobalt before adding some glue and Dry Glitter.
For the ribbon, I took plain white satin ribbon and blended Chipped Sapphire DI onto it, before stamping the tiny snowflake again, in Cobalt Archival ink.
I heat set it, just to make sure the ink wouldn't run, or get all over my fingers while I was tying the bow.
I added a strip of frayed cheesecloth round the neck of the jar first, and then tied the ribbon over the top of that.
So that's my altered jar.
I hope you like it, and are maybe inspired to try something similar... there's nothing like candlelight at Christmas!
Have a wonderful week, and I hope to see you again soon.
I'm entering this in the following:
Frilly & Funkie's challenge A Light in the Darkness
Artistic Outpost's December Referral which is Anything Goes, using an AO stamp
At Anything But A Card the theme is Celebrating the Light or Seasonal Holiday
At Simon Says Stamp this week Simon says Snowflakes
Top Tip Tuesday are having a Christmas challenge, and I'm offering a tip: Make a unique embellishment by stamping plain ribbon with Archival ink, and inking it with Distress inks
How far that little candle throws his beams;
So shines a good deed in a naughty world.
Portia, The Merchant of Venice,
My candle burns at both ends
It will not last the night;
But ah, my foes, and oh, my friends -
It gives a lovely light.
Edna St.Vincent Millay
Begin doing what you want to do now. We are not living in eternity. We have only this moment, sparkling like a star in our hand, and melting like a snowflake.