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Performance Matters - E-Newsletter -
July 2010

It's been a while...

Things have been a little hectic around here for the last few months, so it's time to get caught up.

The BPI team has grown again, adding John Jones as National Technical Director working out of the New York office, and Tiger Adolf as Western Regional Director working out of our new California office.

John brings a wealth of home performance contracting and energy efficiency program management experience to BPI, where he will play a critical technical leadership role in BPI's national expansion. He will also serve as director for BPI's rapidly expanding accreditation and quality assurance programs.

Tiger brings more than 20 years experience working with federal and state agencies – as well as investor-owned, cooperative association and municipal utilities – and fills an important role in understanding and implementing weatherization and home performance programs. In addition, she is from the West and has a clear vision of where BPI services can meet the credentialing needs of clients in the region.

We've been busy with standards development, with four new and/or revised standards currently in public review (you can see them and submit your comments here) and more on the way. To help bring more stakeholders into the standards development process, we've created new working groups (see the article BPI Launches Four New Standards Initiatives - Participants Invited in this issue of Performance Matters).

On July 13, 2010, BPI received approval from the American National Standards Institute, Inc. (ANSI) as an accredited developer of American National Standards. This important recognition signifies formal approval and third-party verification of the fairness, openness and balance BPI has offered all of the stakeholders in residential energy efficiency retrofit work. The public sector encourages agencies to adopt existing specifications and standards where they exist that have followed ANSI accreditation requirements (OMB Circular A-119). Moreover, ANSI accreditation shows BPI has a firm understanding of the need to conduct these programs fairly, openly and by established due process. This will ensure its standards-setting work proceeds with a true consensus of views.

Achieving ANSI approval took a lot of hard work from our staff and volunteers who contributed their time and expertise to the Standards Management Board (SMB) and Standards Technical Committee (STC). Kudos to all of you!

We also have two new certifications in pilot phase: Residential Building Envelope Accessible Areas Air Leakage Control Installer and Residential Building Envelope Whole House Air Leakage Control Crew Chief. You can learn a bit more about them here or download the Certification Scheme Handbooks here.

And we continue to experience rapid growth, with 4,173 new certifications and 52 new affiliates – along with a record-setting 214 new accredited companies – coming aboard in the first half of 2010.

And then there's Home Star, a proposed $6 billion federal energy efficiency retrofit program that cites BPI technical standards, personnel certification and company accreditation credentials as requirements in various portions of the program. Passed by the U.S. House of Representatives in late May, the legislation is currently in the Senate. That's kept us busy too.

But we're never too busy to listen to your feedback, complaints, requests and ideas. Get in touch with us at

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New Standard Work Specifications under development

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has hired Advanced Energy to work with BPI on a series of Standard Work Specification (SWS) documents using the knowledge and experience of subject matter experts from across the industry. Expected completion corresponds to Vice President Biden's request for a Recovery Through Retrofit plan by the end of September 2010.

Developed to maintain quality during a time of rapid growth for the home performance and energy efficiency retrofit industry, the SWS will provide guidelines and a foundation for all training, work and quality control relating to BPI standards, personnel certifications and contracting company accreditations. Specifically, they will provide instructions in quality-critical areas, serve to implement and reinforce job skills, meet work requirements/standards and are transferable to most companies in the industry.

The first in the series, Standard Work Specifications for Attic Air Sealing and Other Details, will be released for public comment within the next few weeks. It was developed by Advanced Energy with financial support from Masco Home Services WellHome and the participation of subject matter experts, including:

  • Jim Fitzgerald, Conservation Services Group
  • Larry Harmon, Air Barrier Solutions, LLC
  • Anthony Cox, New River Center for Energy Research and Training
  • Chris Clay, Building Performance Center
  • John Tooley, Advanced Energy
  • Courtney Moriarta, WellHome
  • Keith Aldridge, Advanced Energy (Facilitator)

Watch the Standards Under Review section of for updates!

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BPI Launches Four New Standards Initiatives - Participants Invited

In late June, BPI introduced four new standards initiatives intended to improve residential performance for air distribution, conventional insulation, air leakage control and quality assurance inspection.

"To be most effective, standards must undergo continuous improvement to incorporate methodologies and materials that enhance the end result in the field - namely the comfort, safety, health, durability and energy efficiency of the home," said Larry Zarker, CEO of BPI. "The newly formed working groups will allow for greater participation from stakeholders with a fair, open, consensus-based approach, while also allowing us to work faster and more effectively to bring new standards to fruition at the pace demanded by the rapid growth of the home performance industry."

Working Group 1: Air Distribution System Energy Performance Applications
Chair: John Krigger, Saturn Resource Management

Requirements for the energy performance of air distribution systems in residential buildings, including requirements for typical air distribution energy performance applications and also applied to other locations that are similar. The energy performance measures are designed to reduce heat transfer and air leakage of the air distribution system.

Working Group 2: Quality Assurance Inspection
Chair: Courtney Moriarta, WellHome

Requirements for a residential building quality assurance inspection of relevant installed measures, including requirements to confirm that the retrofit measures have been installed in accordance with the workscope and applicable standards for material, installation and application.

Working Group 3: Envelope Insulation Applications
Chair: John Brooks Smith, Johns Manville

Requirements for installation of various envelope insulation applications used with the appropriate installation and material standards.

Working Group 4: Envelope Air Leakage Control Applications
Chair: Jim Fitzgerald, Conservation Services Group (CSG)

Requirements for typical air leakage control energy applications and also applied to other situations that are similar; used with the appropriate installation standards and material standards referenced herein [e.g., American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) standards].

Interested in participating? Contact email with your contact information and background, indicating the working group you'd like to join. Most of the meetings will be by teleconference.

Note: Space is limited and not all interested parties will be able to directly participate. However, BPI will provide a method to receive input and to inform all those interested in work group progress and updates.

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Industry News

Do you install polyurethane foam insulation or air sealants? Check out these new health and safety resources from the Center for the Polyurethanes Industry and the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance.

Polyurethane foam insulation and air sealant materials are key tools for improving the performance of the building envelope because they offer complete air leakage control and high R-values.

But they must also be handled and installed correctly to help protect the health and safety of the installer, the crew and the homeowner. Polyurethanes contain a chemical called diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI) as a key ingredient. Once the foam is set, the MDI cannot escape, but it is present during spraying and setting of the material. Coming into direct contact with MDI via inhalation, ingestion or skin contact can pose health risks—especially if the amounts are excessive.

People who are exposed to too much MDI may become "sensitized" to the chemical and experience asthma-like attacks if they are exposed to MDI again. The reaction may be immediate or symptoms may be delayed for several hours. These situations require medical attention, and the individual should not come in contact with MDI ever again.

Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators, gloves, coveralls and goggles, is vital to protecting those who install polyurethane materials, and those who are in the immediate area (within 30 feet) during installation. It's also the law.

OSHA Standards 29 CFR 1910.1200 and 29 CFR 1926 requires the use of:

  • NIOSH-approved full face or hood-type supplied air respirator (SAR)
  • MDI-resistant chemical gloves (nitrile preferred)
  • Chemically resistant long-sleeved coveralls or chemically resistant full body suit with hood
  • MDI-resistant fitted boots/booties

To help promote best-practices for the installation of these materials, the Center for the Polyurethanes Industry (CPI) and Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA) have developed a series of helpful guidance documents and posters, available for free download on You'll find lots of great information and resources under the Health, Protection, First Aid and Regulations tabs, such as how to read a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or develop a respiratory protection program for your company. There's also information on proper storage of polyurethane, respirator fit, gun maintenance, spill containment and proper use of PPE.

If you – or your crews – handle and install polyurethane foam, BPI strongly encourages you to visit and use these materials to ensure everyone on the job site stays safe.

Revised Home Star Legislation Introduced in U. S. Senate

A revised version of the Home Star Energy Retrofit Act of 2010 (S. 3434) was introduced in the United States Senate on May 27, 2010. Home Star, the legislative proposal designed to create a U.S. energy retrofit rebate program, recently passed similar legislation (H.R. 5019) in the United States House of Representatives on May 6, 2010 by a vote of 246 to 161.

BPI personnel certification and company accreditation credentials – along with many BPI national technical standards – are cited in the draft legislation for the Home Star Act of 2010.

Co-sponsored by 16 senators, this bill is now being examined by the Administration, the Senate leadership and the Senate Finance Committee.

Gulf oil spill vs. home energy

The amount of oil spilled as a result of the Deepwater Horizon oil well disaster – the largest oil spill in American history – is equivalent to the amount wasted by just 75,000 homes in a single year, according to calculations performed by Energy Savvy.

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Joe’s Marketing Corner

Set the table while you wait for the meal to be ready

Unless you live under a rock, you've heard about Home Star, the proposed $6 billion federal incentive program that's launched our little industry into the national spotlight in recent months.

The problem with all that Cash for Caulkers hype in the news? You don't need me to tell you. Folks are waiting for it to be passed before they get any work done on their homes. The wait is causing more than a few good home performance contractors to sit idle, and that's not good for business.

You can't blame the homeowner. If someone told me waiting a few months meant I could potentially have half my project paid for, I'd wait too. But what can you do in the meantime?

The best time to set the table is while you're waiting for the meal to cook. Take this opportunity to start nurturing some leads. Do your homeowner education work now, so your next customers ready to sign on the dotted line the instant Home Star becomes a reality.

Start by going through all those cold or 'dead' leads you have on file. Chances are good the customer just wasn't ready to purchase at the time you made initial contact, and that means they're a prime candidate for a little nurturing. You have to warm up those cold leads.

If you have email addresses on file, plan out a series of informative, educational emails you can send them (make sure you include a way to let them opt-out of any future email from you so you're not spamming). These types of communication can build trust and add value to your relationship with that potential customer. Send a new email out every other week, or even once a month.

With cold or dead leads, you can reach out with your standard follow-up phone call as well. Remind them you spoke before. Ask them how the comfort is going, how high the energy bills are, did the mold get taken care of. Offer your help again, just as you would in a standard follow-up. Chances are, if they responded to your proposal like a deer in the headlights, they probably haven't done anything about their problems, and perhaps the issues have even gotten more annoying. The lesson there is basically, "Doing nothing should not be an option since the underlying problems won't fix themselves."

If you live in a cooling climate, now is the time when they feel the pain of uncomfortable rooms and high cooling bills. By now, they have received their July bill, so that sets you up to talk about "the cost of not doing something," and starting to plan a strategy for action.

The idea is to nurture. Demonstrate value. Offer a little something for nothing. Build understanding and you can build it into a sale.

But here's the kicker. If they're still not ready to buy, go ahead and tell them about Home Star. Educate them on the program and how it might work. Make sure they know about Silver Star and Gold Star and the importance of your credentials. Make sure they know about the incentives involved.

If the sticking point standing between you and that sale from a cold lead is simply the dollar amount, you can make sure your phone rings off the hook as soon as Home Star hits by investing a little effort now. Be sure to come away with an agreement that you will contact them as soon as the program becomes available, to talk about the details and hopefully the scheduling!

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Tag Archives: Totalitarian Collectivism

NWO Enforcer: NATO Threatens WW III

The New World Order has been in place for centuries. Is it not time to start calling the NWO by another name? A descriptive term that encapsulates the essence of the beast would be a Nefarious Warrior Organism. Such a phrase strips away the ridiculous notion that there is any order in the malevolent organization of the parasitic global structure, based upon perpetual and permanent warfare. This depiction more closely resembles reality, even if the master mass media refuses to acknowledge How the World Really Works. Discard any condemnation that criticism of the established order rests upon conspiratorial fantasy or pre-medieval prejudices. Explaining away or ignoring basic human nature in a “PC” culture ultimately requires the adoption of a depraved Totalitarian Collectivism system.

Read more

New Cold War with a Different Enemy

As all the alarm bells ring continuously that the Russian Federation is the cause for the latest cold war, the actual risk for a hot conflict or an intentional brinkmanship of worldwide proportions should focus on the real enemy of humanity. The Brexit campaign was about more than just leaving the European Union. Likewise, the Trump movement is about a great deal more than just keeping Hillary Clinton from the oval office. Formerly the nation-state was the organizational format for government. Europe emerged from the dark ages to carve out kingships and spend centuries of warring with mostly bloodline relatives. When the bonds of feudalism loosened and economic advancement expanded the enlightenment of human thinking altered the political landscape. Notions of democratic principles germinated into ushering aside Kaisers, Czars and Kings. The popular vote in a strange ritual came to be known as an election, was culturally adopted as registering the popular will of the people.

Read more

NOVO ORDO SECLORUM – NeoCon Hell on Earth

The 20th Century was the most destructive era in history. Deaths from all the wars and the genocides estimated at 160 million may seem small if the planet descends into the approaching holocaust. Globalization is the catchword of the ruling class. Sovereign nations are obsolete to the corporatists. Militarization for suppressing conflicts is the mission, since warfare among nations are passé. The old alliances based upon ethnic composition or ideology has vanished. Only dissenters against the New World Order pose a threat to the Novo Ordo Seclorum.

Read more

Failed EU – Means an Expanded Dictatorship

As the people of the world awaken to the pernicious nature and destructive wreckage of European civilization, the EU technocrats and oligarchs respond with even greater measures of control, repression and intimidation. Yet the prospects that they will be able to maintain their autocratic rule lessons with each populistrebellion against the beasts from Brussels. Induced panic is a tool used to scare the peasants into additional submission. The most obvious method will be a major economic and monetary implosion designed to create fear so that their revered and lauded interdependency necessitates another surrender of national sovereignty.

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Trump’s Gettysburg Address against the New World Order

If not now, WHEN? Only the most dedicated Totalitarian Collectivist would want to keep the NWO in power. Those who are so dim-witted to believe that the governance elites are legitimate rulers, exercising moral authority are so ignorant and illiterate that they deserve the fate of sheep taken to the slaughter. The Sheeple designation is apt for a society mired in a distorted reality of serfdom.

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Inverted Totalitarianism and the Corporate State

Stricken with a terminal disease, the decline of traditional society is unavoidable. For decades, the political institutions that fostered a Republic based upon individual liberty and responsibility fade into fond memory. Defenders of all that made America a shining example of human freedom are attacked and ridiculed for holding onto a moral and ethical system that is based upon the dignity of every individual. Most will blame the failure of this decay on the politicians that willfully pander to the masses with the next generation of social welfare programs. While defining a politician as a scoundrel, deserving damnation, seems obvious; the underlying source of the decay that eats away the culture comes from various directions.

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Fatalistic Reality and Election Futility

Thank God, another election cycle is over. Some celebrate that elections demonstrate that the country prides itself on a peaceful transition of power. Others rejoice that elections reflect the will of the people. And you hear the familiar pronouncement, that democracy brings legitimacy to the rule of government. If all this was true, why is the nation always in trouble? After every election, the system continues to grind citizens into the ground. The privileged few continue to accrue their vast sums of booty, as the debt soars to heights that only a super computer can calculate.

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The Meaning of 911 Fifteen Years After

What kind of an American are you? Will you mourn the dead or will you celebrate the government as protector of national security? For thoughtful and historically balanced realists the correct reaction is that the last remnants of the Republic collapsed with the twin towers and burned with the response from the Pentagon fire. Most docile and obedient subjects of the despotic regime that has morphed into outright tyranny still believe the official report from The National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States, provides the definitive details on the 911 investigation.

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Rewarding Idiots with Democratic Totalitarianism

Now that the Democrat Party convention concluded their class warfare rally, those with saner minds are left with the task of identifying the magnitude of the sociopathic disease that infects the vast mindset of the worship government sect. The rhetoric of the Left has little trouble with identifying the ills of the world, but when the collectivists start to rattle off their measures to make the world safe for democracy, the ugly fascist face of totalitarianism emerges. The bond among statists, span all ideological spectrums. Commies and Nazis share the same gene. In Amerika, that same defiled DNA proliferates in all the half-wits that still believe that government is or can be a force for good. Essentially, the people are a herd of corruption enablers.

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Likelihood of Organized Disruption at GOP Convention

The anticipated and long awaited political theater of the political conventions is upon us. The Republican gala has special expectation. “The Donald” will make a real show out of this high tension wire walk across the political divide of GOP careerist party stalwarts. Those populist upstart activists that raise the participation impact of new primary voters are invading the clandestine chambers of the privileged establishment. The never Trump movement will have their last gasp, but the surreptitious NeoCon insiders will not go away. Their covert choice is still Hillary Clinton.

Read more

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Enlarged Axillary Lymph Nodes

Enlarged axillary lymph nodes can be a symptom of a serious medical condition, including breast cancer. If you, or a loved one, notice swelling and/or feel a solid mass in the armpit area please contact a medical professional.

The Lymphatic System

The human circulatory system includes the cardiovascular and lymphatic systems, two networks that play complementary roles. As you may recall from a high school biology class, the cardiovascular system consists of arteries and veins. Arteries transfer blood, enriched with oxygen and fuel, to cells. Veins return blood, carrying carbon dioxide, back to the lungs.

The lymphatic system is a nearly parallel structure and plays a critical role in the body’s immune system. The lymphatic system moves lymph between tissue and the bloodstream via lymph ducts, lymph nodes, lymph vessels and organs. It also includes adenoids, the spleen, the thymus and tonsils.

  • Lymph: a clear-to-white fluid made up of white blood cells that attack bacteria found in the bloodstream. Lymph can also be found in the intestines (chyle), where they hold proteins and fats.
  • Lymph Nodes (Lymph Glands): are found throughout the human body (behind breast tissue, arm tissue, leg tissue, etc.) and are linked together through lymphatic vessels. Lymph nodes screen and/or remove foreign substances (for example, substances secreted from bacteria, called antigens).

If the lymph nodes detect an unrecognizable substance they will create an antibody, which flows in blood circulation to target and destroy the foreign material in cells throughout the body.

Swollen lymph nodes are a sign they are making infection-fighting white blood cells to combat a recognized threat to the body. The threat can range from something relatively trivial, such as a cold or throat infection, to something far more serious, such as cancer. Understanding the health of the lymphatic system can play a crucial role in the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of cancer tumors.

Enlarged Axillary Lymph Nodes

The axillary (arm pit) lymph nodes filter and/or trap lymph from the arm, chest wall and breast. It is often difficult to feel normal axillary lymph nodes. Not all enlarged axillary lymph nodes feel the same. It is also important to mention that enlarged axillary lymph nodes are not necessarily a sign of cancer. However, we strongly advise you to consult with a medical provider if you are concerned about enlarged axillary lymph nodes.

Enlarged axillary lymph nodes may stem from a range of causes. If a patient does not have cancer, some of the local, non-cancerous causes of enlarged axillary lymph nodes include:

  • An injury to the armpit, arm or hand (almost always non-cancerous).
  • Localized infection or hydradenitits.
  • Brucellois (also known as Undulant fever, Malta fever and/or Mediterranean fever): a bacteria disease picked up from contact with dogs, cows, goats, pigs or other mammals. Brucellois can be contracted consuming unpasteurized dairy products.
  • Cat Scratch Disease: cats infected with bartonellahenselae can transfer the bacteria to humans by piercing their skin (bite or scratch). The illness may result in fatigue, a fever, headache(s) and a loss of appetite. Most of the time the body can expunge the infection without medical treatment.
  • Silicone breast implants: a reaction by the lymphatic system to the placement of a foreign substance (including the small possibility of a silicone leak).

Systematic, non-cancerous causes of enlarged axillary lymph nodes include:

  • Viral infections: mononucleosis, chicken pox, measles, HIV/AIDS and others.
  • Bacterial: tuberculosis, etc.
  • Fungal.
  • Temporary side effects from a vaccination.

Enlarged axillary lymph nodes can be a symptom of the following local or metastasized (systematic) cancer maladies:

  • A tumor in or near the axillary lymph node.
  • Leukemia.
  • Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.
  • Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.
  • Melanoma.

Enlarged Axillary Lymph Nodes and Breast Cancer

Approximately 75 percent of lymph found in the breasts drain into the axillary lymph nodes. As such, the detection of enlarged axillary lymph nodes, especially nodes that are hard to the touch, can play an important factor in the diagnosis, and staging, of breast cancer.

Not all cases of breast cancer result in enlarged axillary lymph nodes. However, the observation of enlarged axillary lymph nodes is a strong signal that breast cancer may be at a more advanced stage. The detection of cancer in the lymph nodes is one of three central determinants breast cancer doctors consider to evaluate the stage of a breast cancer tumor(s). The other two are the size of breast cancer tumor and whether it has spread to other areas of the body.

There are five options to categorize the influence of breast cancer in the axillary lymph nodes:

  • NX: lymph nodes cannot be clinically evaluated.
  • N0: no identifiable cancer in the axillary lymph nodes.
  • N1: cancer is present in the axillary lymph nodes. However, it is not attached to the chest wall or between different axillary lymph nodes.
  • N2: cancer is identified in the axillary lymph nodes. The cancer has linked between different axillary lymph nodes and/or the chest wall.
  • N3: in addition to N2, cancer has spread above and below the collarbone.

To clarify the axillary lymph node status a sentinel node biopsy may be performed. This is a surgical technique that injects a radioactive blue dye into the site of the breast cancer tumor. The dye helps surgeons identify the closest lymph nodes to the breast cancer site.

  • The axillary lymph nodes nearest to the breast cancer site are removed and biopsied for cancer.
  • If cancer is not detected the remaining axillary lymph nodes are not removed.
  • If cancer is detected additional axillary lymph nodes are removed and biopsied.

A Consultation for Enlarged Axillary Lymph Nodes

If you or a loved one is concerned about enlarged axillary lymph nodes, please contact one of our centers for a consultation. Whether you need us now or later, we are always here for you.

Select a Center

Please leave this field empty.


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Jobst Relief Thigh Highs 30-40mmHg

 based on 48 Customer Reviews
Read 48 ReviewsWrite a Review
Price Range:   $50.33 - $58.73
Top Band:
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Jobst Relief thigh high surgical stockings for men or women are made from smooth, breathable fabric and available with a closed or open toe (beige only). This thigh high is available with or without a silicone top band. No silicone band requires the use of a body adhesive such as "It Stays" or a garter belt.  Relief is Jobst's economy brand and features a generous toe area and reinforced heel pocket.

This compression stocking provides 30-40mmHg of gradient compression and should be worn under a doctor’s supervision. This level helps relieve severe varicosities, severe edema (swelling), and chronic venous insufficiency. It helps during healing after surgical and sclerotherapy procedures and helps prevent venous ulcerations. This level also helps relieve superficial thrombophlebitis.
  • Black - closed toe only
  • No silicone band - beige only
  • No band: 67% nylon and 33% spandex. With silicone band: 66% nylon, 28% spandex, 6% silicone.
  • Made in Mexico.
Machine or hand wash in lukewarm water with a mild detergent.  Hang to dry.  Do not wring.  Do not use bleach, Woolite, or fabric softeners.  Do no iron.  Do not tumble dry.
 Average Rating:  4.5 Star Rating
 based on 48 Customer Reviews
   Jobst Relief Thigh Highs, January 15, 2017  By Anonymous (Castro Valley, CA)(Verified)
Good fit, much better than Allegra
   comfortable fit, December 13, 2016  By Anonymous (Philadelphia, PA)
I really like these in the higher compression. They have helped tremendously with swelling and varicose vein comfort. The silicone band is effective in keeping them in place and are much more practical comfortable than a full stocking at least during pregnancy.
   Jobst Relief Thigh Highs 30-40mmHg , December 7, 2016  By Anonymous (Edmonds, WA)(Verified)
I am 6' 2" and the Medium covers my entire thigh, silicon holds well
   Jobst Relief Thigh Highs 30-40mmHg, October 14, 2016  By Anonymous (Edmonds, WA)(Verified)
just what I needed
   Jobst Relief Thigh Highs 30-40mmHg, October 5, 2016  By Anonymous (Edmonds, WA)(Verified)
   Wish I had tried sooner!, July 12, 2016  By Anonymous (Livermore, CA)
Love these ! So much more comfortable then full hose. The silicon dots do the job! Bought another two pair. Fast shipping too!
   Perfect for autonomic neuropathy!, June 22, 2016  By Anonymous (Lancaster, OH)
I have POTS (i.e. an autonomic neuropathy) and these stockings literally prevent me from being a prisoner to gravity. I have purchased Jobst for 3 years and have received excellent quality products every time. No other brand stocking holds up to daily wear for at least a year like Jobst does. BrightLife Direct has been the best supplier by far. They have the best prices, excellent customer service, quick order fulfillment and superior consistency. I highly recommend both Jobs and BrightLife.
   jobst relief thigh high 30-40mmHg, June 8, 2016  By Anonymous (roswell, GA)
Easy to put on and good compression but they slip down a little by the end of the day.
   Happy with Jobst, April 24, 2016  By Theresa  (Knoxville, TN)
The Jobst are great. They are doing their "job". The open toe are working well for open toe shoes and painted toes. Still love the silicone band.
   Lymphedema relief at last!, April 14, 2016  By Megan (Jamestown, ND)
I have always received my garments through a prescription and healthcare accessories store. I decided to try something new as my previous stockings would snag or tear within 2 weeks 100% of the time. First off, brightlifedirect told me 14 days for shipping and my new garments arrived in 4. I have had my stockings for 6 weeks now and they still look brand new even though I wear them 24/7 and put them through the washing machine as I don't have time to hand wash. My swelling has drastically decreased in my affected limb, as well as my pain level and these stockings were only half the price of the defective stockings I previously wore. My only complaint is that I did not discover this company and these stockings earlier!
   Leg support, April 10, 2016  By Theresa (Knoxville, TN)
I never would have thought about wearing support hose till they were prescribed. The Jobst have been easy to wear they feel good during the day, thick, but legs look nice. Silicone dot bands work, which is good, because I won't wear a garter belt. I am happy with the product.
   Nice fit, March 23, 2016  By H Keith (LAKE MARY, FL)
I highly recommend the Jobst brand which is very comfortable and a great fit. They really fine very comfortable on me.
   30-40 Compression Socks, March 17, 2016  By H Keith Martin (Lake Mary, FL)
These are well made and comfortable. I would recommend these to anyone.
   Love the support, February 21, 2016  By Anonymous (Lihue, HI)
I will always come back to these particular support hose. Standing long days in the OR has nothing on me if I put these on before I get out of bed in the morning. I feel great at the end of a long day.
   Jobst Relief Thigh Highs 30-40mmHg are great!, December 17, 2015  By Anonymous (Edmonds, WA)
These Jobst stockings are comfortable and give even, long-lasting support. Top marks!
   Jobst Relief Thigh Highs 30-40mmHg, December 3, 2015  By Anonymous (sagamore Hills, OH)
The are a very good stocking,but could be a little longer.
   Relief Thigh Highs, November 19, 2015  By Anonymous (Broken Arrow, OK)
The product is always delivered promptly and in good order. I could not stand on my feet for long period of times without them. Being able to order them through your website is benefit to me. Thank you!
   Jobst Relief thigh highs 30-40 mmHg, October 11, 2015  By Kaylene Poppe (Co. Springs, CO)
I really need the 30-40 compression and these are the only ones without silicone, which leaves welts all around my thighs that itch and last 3-4 days. I can wear these with skirts and pants but really prefer a longer stocking at times and pantyhose are harder to put on with such compression and cost more. It would be nice if I could get this in other colors, like black or navy, though, I am pleased to get this at least.
   Works well, October 8, 2015  By Anonymous (Brooklyn, NY)
I confess I don't have much experience with compression stockings, but these do pretty much what they're supposed to do. They're relatively easy to put on and comfortable in use; the silicone dots keep them in place. So far, they've also been durable, and have suffered no tears or conspicuous wear.
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These work great. They do exactly what they are supposed to do.
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These work great. They are extremely tight like they are supposed to be. Only problem I have is that they roll down at the top.
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Fit perfect.
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I love the thigh highs. They are the most comfortable out of any brand I have tried.
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I really like the quality and flexibility of these compression stockings.

But there is one thing I do not like. The toe band (for the open-toe style) is too long; the band is so long it compresses my toes together, making them sweat and consequently smell.

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BeautySleep is a liquid supplement that claims to not only help you fall asleep quickly and soundly, but that you will wake up looking more beautiful. This is because they state BeautySleep is a beauty enhancing sleep drink with all natural ingredients that are clinically proven to give you some shut-eye as well as nourish, enhance, and rejuvenate your skin.

How BeautySleep Works

BeautySleep touts its natural ingredients are blended into a patented formula they call Sensara Plus, which they claim work together to give you rest as well as enhance your skin from the inside out.

They list the main ingredients as: melatonin, grape seed & green tea, acai berry, lutein, chamomile, GABA (an amino acid produced by the body), valerian root, B-Vitamins, and selenium. They add BeautySleep Beauty Enhancing Sleep Drink has no sugar, no calories, and yet still tastes great.

To use BeautySleep to sleep and enhance your beauty they instruct you to drink it just before you go to bed. They promise the sleep-inducing ingredients (melatonin, chamomile, GABA, valerian) will lull you into a deep, peaceful slumber, while the beauty-boosting ones (lutein, B-Vitamins, selenium, grape seed/green tea, and acai berry) have antioxidants that neutralize free radicals, boost collagen, and smooth skin working at the cellular level to slow down the effects of aging.

When you wake up the next morning, BeautySleep exclaims not only will you not feel groggy but if you look at yourself in the mirror, you will see a younger-looking and more beautiful reflection staring back at you.

BeautySleep Costs:

$3.99 for the first 16 oz. bottle of BeautySleep Beauty Enhancing Sleep Drink. After 18 days (14 day trial period plus 4 days for shipping) unless you call to cancel, you will be enrolled in an auto-ship program and sent 2 bottles of BeautySleep every 30 days and charged $79, which includes shipping.

BeautySleep offers a refund for all unopened bottles of their products, minus what it costs you to ship them back.

Bottom Line: Will BeautySleep Give Me Sleep and Make Me Beautiful?

We understand and sympathize with the need to get a good night’s rest. BeautySleep adds additional allure by not only promising to help you sleep and wake up feeling refreshed, but also that your skin will look younger.

However, there are a few things we’d like to make you aware of. First of all, there is no conclusive evidence that any of these supposed sleep-enhancing ingredients are truly effective. UC Berkeley Wellness looked at many of these ingredients including melatonin, valerian, and GABA and stated that its effects are “weak and unpredictable and their long-term safety unknown.”

The Mayo Clinic says that melatonin has been shown to help with jet lag or day sleeping, but is generally recommended only for short-term use and could have side effects when used with other medications.

A 2012 report of more than 200 herbal insomnia treatments published in Evidence-Based and Complimentary and Alternative Medicine found most studies to be poorly designed and could come to no conclusions about their effectiveness.

As to the beauty enhancing side of BeautySleep, evidence is similarly lacking that these ingredients will have any benefit to the way you look. We did find one study on lutein that seemed to show it promoted eye and skin health, but it was done by a company that sells a product that contains lutein.

However, it is true that if you get enough sleep you will probably not have puffiness or dark circles and will most likely look better; you’ll probably feel better, too. Sleep is thought to be the time when our body naturally replenishes itself, but a supplement like BeautySleep won’t take you to the level of deep sleep that will allow this to happen.

And let’s not forget, that while the first bottle is just $3.99, you will be charged $79 a month for more bottles of BeautySleep, which itself may give you insomnia.

How To Get Some Sleep

So many people have trouble getting enough beauty rest, but there are a few things we’ve learned to help with the problem that require no pills or liquids. Some of these are outlined in an article from WebMD, which we summarize as:

  • Use earplugs and/or sleep mask
  • Avoid caffeine
  • Reduce stress with exercise, but not within 2 hours of bedtime
  • Try meditation

Avoid large meals before sleep

If these tips don’t work, talk to your doctor and get their recommendations.

Let us know your experience with BeautySleep below!


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Llangollen Motor Museum
Llangollen Motor Museum
This small museum features vintage and antique cars, motorcycles and automotive memorabilia. The museum also houses an exhibition on how canals were built and operate.
What to See
The museum holds a collection of over 60 vehicles, most of which are roadworthy and spend a lot of time being driven. Among the collection highlights are a Model T Ford and a Vauxhall 14/40, but then there are unexpected pleasures like an invalid carriage and pedal-powered cars. Among British-built motorcycles on show are a Triumph, Norton, BSA, and Sunbeam models.

One of the major attractions is an award-winning 1962 Triumph TR4. There there is a New Imperial Motorcycle from 1935, which has the honour of being the only British motorcycle put on display at the Millennium Dome in London.

Other highlights include the only motor-drawn caravan in Britain, and a recreation of a 1950s garage. Its a real trip down memory lane and a heavy dose of nostalgia for anyone interested in British motoring history.

The museum also holds a very large collection of spare parts for classic vehicles, with an emphasis on ignition, suspension, and brake parts.

Seasonal opening, so please check first before making travel plans. Schools and group visits are welcome.

One enjoyable way to visit the museum is to take the 1 mile walk beside the canal from Llangollen Wharf.


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Lyrics of two beloved songs from Peter Pan I'm Flying by Carolyn Leigh & Morris (Moose) Charlap and Never Never Land by Betty Comden, Adolph Green & Jule Styne), are transformed into a magical picture book sure to enchant the musical's legions of new and returning fans. Acclaimed songwriters Betty Comden, Adolph Green and Carolyn Leigh know a thing or two about crafting songs that touch hearts and imaginations and endure for generations. They hit one of their many pinnacles with this pair of lovely odes to "a place where dreams are born" and the joys of flying--whether over a sleeping city or inside one's very own bedroom.

An exuberant cast of young theater and entertainment industry favorites; Matthew Schecter (Newsies, Broadway),Bailey Grey (Séance, NYC Opera) Noah Marlowe (30 Rock, NBC-TV) and Ellis Gage (James and the Giant Peach, Goodspeed Opera House) help bring the story to life with their performances of I'm Flying and Never Never Land,and actress Phyllis Newman, wife of the late Adolph Green, contributes a touching, personal introduction to the book. With this and luminous illustrations, including a lavish gatefold of the "flying" scene, this is an extraordinary book to give, to cherish, to share.

Book is available for purchase online and wherever fine books are sold.

Both songs are available for purchase through iTunes.

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this book benefit The Phyllis Newman Women's Health Initiative.


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The Watermill Presents World Stage Premiere of A BUNCH OF AMATEURS, Now thru 6/28

The Watermill Presents World Stage Premiere of A BUNCH OF AMATEURS, Now thru 6/28

The Watermill is delighted to announce the World Stage Premiere of A Bunch of Amateurs by Ian Hislop and Nick Newman, opening tonight, 22 May 2014 (press night Monday 26 May at 7.30pm).

Keen to boost his flagging career, fading Hollywood action hero Jefferson Steele arrives in England to play King Lear in Stratford only to find that this is not the birthplace of the Bard but a sleepy Suffolk village and the cast are a bunch of amateurs. Jefferson's monstrous ego, vanity and insecurity are tested by the enthusiastic amateur thespians - who are not averse to a spot of ego, vanity and insecurity themselves. As acting worlds collide and Jefferson's career implodes, he discovers some truths about himself and his relationships with other people... along with his inner Lear!

A Bunch of Amateurs is a 2008 British comedy film starring Burt Reynolds, Samantha Bond, Derek Jacobi and Imelda Staunton, which received its World Premiere in a gala opening attended by Her Majesty the Queen. Based on an original story by Jonathan Gershfield and John Ross, writers Ian Hislop and Nick Newman are now revisiting their screenplay to recreate it for the intimate stage of The Watermill Theatre.

Ian Hislop is a British journalist, comedian, writer, broadcaster and editor of the magazine Private Eye. He has appeared on countless radio and television programmes, and is perhaps best known as team captain on the BBC's comedy quiz show Have I Got News for You.

Nick Newman is best known for his work as a satirical cartoonist, working regularly for Private Eye since 1981, and as pocket cartoonist for The Sunday Times since 1989. His cartoons and strips have appeared in many other publications including Punch and The Spectator.

As writers, Ian and Nick have collaborated for over 30 years, with co-writing credits including Spitting Image, Murder Most Horrid for Dawn French, two series of My Dad's the Prime Minister for BBC1, sketches for The Harry Enfield Show and the BBC Radio 4 series Gush.

A Bunch of Amateurs is directed by Caroline Leslie with design by Tom Rogers and music by Paul Herbert. The cast features Emily Bowker as Lauren, Eleanor Brown as Jessica and Sarah Moyle as Mary, with further casting to be announced. It is presented by The Watermill In association with Trademark Films.

The Watermill is a local theatre with a national reputation. From a converted watermill in rural West Berkshire seating just 220 people, The Watermill creates award-winning work that is recognised throughout the UK and abroad, with a bold artistic ambition to present a range of work from Shakespeare, classic plays and new writing to the reimagining of large-scale musicals. Alongside West End and Broadway transfers, and national and international tours, The Watermill also creates productions for small-scale touring, ensuring that those living in rural isolation are able to enjoy high quality theatre on their doorstep. Attracting the very best artists and creative teams, both established and at the early stages of their careers, The Watermill has earned itself a reputation as one of the very best producing theatres in the country.

Newbury, Berkshire, RG20 8AE

Press Night: Monday 26 May at 7.30pm

Performances: Monday to Saturday at 7.30pm

Thursday and Saturday matinees at 2.30pm

Saturday 28 June performances at 1.30pm and 6.30pm

Tickets: £14.50 - £26

Box Office: 01635 46044 |

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From This Author Kaitlin Milligan

Before you go...


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I honestly can't believe I returned from this trip alive.

I was 20 years old and I headed to the Cordillera Blanca--a range of steep, snowy mountains--soon after becoming obsessed with the thought of climbing mountains.
I hadn't yet learned that walking down them is way less fun than skiing them. This trip is where I came upon the idea of combining mountaineering with skiing.

For a big range, it has "easy" mountains, with peaks less than 20,000 feet tall. I intended to climb them by myself, with virtually no previous glacier travel or mountain climbing experience.
So, during the course of a month, I climbed and skied--oh wait, I didn't even take my skis--walked down as many mountains as I could. Then I returned to Argentina and Chile to begin my summer of skiing.

Vallunaraju (18,650 ft.)
Yanapaccha (17,913 ft.)
Pisco (18,871 ft.)
Urus Este (17,782 ft.)
Ishinca (18,143 ft.)
failure: Tocllaraju (19,790 ft.) (high point: 16,750 ft.)

At various times during the month, I hired a donkey, a porter, arriero, and even a Peruvian climbing guide. He didn't speak any English, wasn't a real guide, and hadn't climbed the mountains, but he at least knew the names of the surrounding peaks and was someone with whom I could tie into a rope.
Later, alone, after I ran out of money for a guide (read: after 2 mountains), I fell into a crevasse, at 18,000 feet, by myself.

I went to Peru with almost no spending money and a wish for alpine summits. Not a death wish. Because I was usually carrying all my own food in a backpack en route to base camps--since after using a donkey once I decided I couldn't afford to do that any more--I never had enough food for my week-long climbing sessions. Returning to town by hitching rides or finding mountain taxis (small cars that definitely incurred more costs in damage from the drive than I was paying for it), I would go straight to a hole-in-the-wall restaurant, eat a huge plate of Arroz a la Cubana, pay, walk to the hole-in-the-wall restaurant next door, and order another. Then I'd head to main street, get an ice cream cone while walking toward the hostel, finish it, get another ice cream cone to last me until I reached my hostel, get in my bunk, and pass out.
Once, between mountain climbing stints, I went sport climbing at Hatun Machay.
I'd wake up a couple of days later, bored of town and ready to head back into the mountains. I'd load up an insufficient amount of food, equipment, and know-how, and leave town.

A couple of days before leaving Peru, I decided that I wanted to see Machu Picchu. Thirty-six hours of bus rides later, I made it.


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★★★★★ ★★★★★
3.7 (11 Reviews)
64% of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

11 Reviews

Displaying reviews 1 - 10 Next >

  • ★★★★★ ★★★★★

    I would recommend this shoe to friends

    2017/03/09 | Nebraska |

    I did have to order a half size bigger. They fit pretty tight but I enjoy the support. Arch support is very good, I have more of a flat arch so it gives me stability, but if you have a higher arch I think it would give you the support you need as well.

    Yes, I would recommend this!

  • ★★★★★ ★★★★★

    So worth the price

    2017/03/08 | Bethlehem, PA |

    I run on a treadmill five days a week with these shoes. When I started that routine I was wearing Nikes, but got sore knees and shin splints. With better technique and these running shoes, my pain is GONE! Worth every penny.

    Yes, I would recommend this!

  • ★★★★★ ★★★★★

    weightless fast shoe

    2017/01/13 | Chicago, Il |

    I first tried breaking these shoes by walking to find that they were really weightless. I felt light on my feet. I was worried about them fitting too narrow since my foot is a little wider and slightly higher arched, but they fit like a glove except that I'm slightly aware of the seams coming together where the tongue and body of the shoe connect, but only on the left foot (weird). Other than that I have not gotten one blister from them. Theyre my new favorite track shoes.

    Yes, I would recommend this!

  • ★★★★★ ★★★★★

    Way too Tight

    2017/01/13 | Ridgecrest, CA |

    These shoes looked great right out the box. They were really light which was a plus. Once I began to run in them, the pain came and it didn't end. I thought if I kept running in them for a while it would loosen up and feel better, but it never did. I ended up getting blisters in places I've never had them before on my feet. It was probably the most painful running show I had ever wore. I will say that it was a stable shoe and I didn't have pain elsewhere.

  • ★★★★★ ★★★★★

    Trying to stick with brooks ....but it isn't working

    2016/11/16 | Oakland, CA |

    I bought these to replace a pair of PureConnects that I wore out since they don't make the PureConnects any more. I had to send these back. They were probably close to the right length but so tight across my foot. It was impossible to get comfortable and might've made my feet go numb. I have very average size 8.5 feet, like to run about 6 miles on an average run, and wear a super light weight shoe. These were so close but a miss. I am so sad that I have had to look else where for running shoes. Please bring back the split sole, 12mm drop Pure Connect shoe!

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    Two thumbs up

    2016/10/10 | Washington, DC |

    These shoes have quickly become my go-to for all speed and cross training workouts. They are light weight but supportive. I have a narrow foot and love the way these hug my feet!

    Yes, I would recommend this!

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    2016/09/28 | San Diego, CA |

    They are stinkin' gorgeous, but they chewed me up. The seams where the bottom lace hole and tongue all seem to come together rubs really bad and after a three mile run, I was left with big blisters on the tops of both of my feet.

  • ★★★★★ ★★★★★

    2016/09/28 | Underhill, VT |

    At first, I thought Brooks forgot to pack the shoes in the box because the box was SO LIGHT. I love these shoes. I put them on and feel as if they become my feet. I have taken them on runs up to 6 miles and I have no issues with knee or hip pain. I will be buying more of these shoes.

    Yes, I would recommend this!

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    Love them

    2016/09/20 | Mexico DF |

    Marathon training!

    Yes, I would recommend this!

  • ★★★★★ ★★★★★

    Not a good fit

    2016/09/06 | Indiana |

    they looked great but were too tight

Displaying reviews 1 - 10 Next >


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A Tiny Tree

New Brickshelfer SCoallier kicks things off beautifully with a lovely bonsai tree:

(Okay, I know I’m seriously behind. I have a dozen or more news items and creations I’ve bookmarked to blog here on PPB. I’ll try to catch up once work settles down a bit. Sorry readers!)

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1 comment on “A Tiny Tree

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The return of Galidor, aka the Ben 10 figs [News]

A lot of fans were skeptical when LEGO announced upcoming Ben 10 sets, and they were right. We now have pictures of the upcoming Ben 10 big figs from available for pre-order. If it’s not already obvious by the discussion on Flickr, these new sets look like a rehash of the failed Galidor line. Perhaps these products may appeal to some kids and fans of the cartoon, but at $18 each, sales are going to be very limited.

Pictures from Mr. Mandalorian

33 comments on “The return of Galidor, aka the Ben 10 figs [News]

  1. Fred

    Bionicle meets power miner rock monsters. if they were 10 bucks I may get a few for parts. In 12 months.. they will be

  2. tedward

    Important difference: Galidor was a poorly conceived attempt to create a toy line with a show to support it. Ben 10 is a reasonably successful, long-running series of cartoons and live-action TV movies that has sold licensing rights to TLG to create action figures. I’m not sure the line will work but diversification is worth trying and clearly the millions of dollars of Bionicles they sell indicates some appetite from their target market for “action figures”.

    That said, I probably will not buy any even at a deep discount – except maybe for my kids if they ask.

  3. Octopunk

    The price is appalling, I’m disappointed there aren’t alien minifigs, BUT

    I think the resemblence to Galidor is superficial. What really sucked about that line were the godawful character designs and overspecialized limb pieces that could only be used to make godawful characters. These characters are better just in their basic concepts and the parts seem waaay more usable for other MOCs. I like those claw hands a lot.

    Eighteen bucks, though. Sheesh.

  4. proudlove

    These certainly don’t appeal to me at all, yet I’ll get behind anything that makes Lego more succesful so they can offer stuff I like. Besides, those joints are Bionicle ball-joint type, not Galidor click type. The Bionicle folks might find these useful. I support a modular action figure concept, ‘cuz the kids’ll love it. I’m not sure why so many people are out of touch with what appeals to Lego’s main target market, namely 6-10 year old boys. These look like they’ll be just about perfect.

  5. sqiddster

    I think this may actually be a success…
    Truly, not with the AFOL community, but certainly with the Lego group’s target audience, as Proudlove said. This show is very popular with this 6-10 crowd. However with the price tag, it may be a huge flop.
    Should be interesting to see how this turns out.

  6. Bundalings

    For those complaining about the price, Lego employee known on the internet as Binkmiester (a member of Eurobricks and BZPower), says that $18 is not the suggested retail price, and they’ll be cheaper most places. He should know, he’s working on the Lego Ben 10 website…

  7. Ryan H.

    Tedward says: “Galidor was a poorly conceived attempt to create a toy line with a show to support it.”

    You have it backwards; Galidor was a TV show first, with the LEGO line as their only form of merchandising.

    Now, while I won’t get many — if any — of these Ben10 sets, they are more akin to Bionicle or the large KK figures than Galidor, given the types of parts. For example, on this one pictured here, the thigh seems to be made of a normal double-balljoint-receptacle, with a typically Bionicle-y covering.

    In short: If you don’t like them, don’t buy them; leave them for the kiddies (for whom they are marketed!!!) As a MOCer, I see potential in several of these pieces.

  8. Josh

    @Ryan H. – Perhaps I’m totally out of the loop, but I’ve never seen something that said we won’t express opinions about news items. I know I’ve made my own opinions known about items I’ve posted.

  9. Andrew

    To expand a bit on my initial “FAIL!!!” comment, I do agree wholeheartedly with proudlove and others who believe this may not be all bad for LEGO.

    In recent years, The LEGO Group has made stellar progress in developing sets that appeal to adult fans like us, such as the Cafe Corner series of modular buildings. Other themes appeal both to their core demographic and to us, like Space Police.

    But for years, LEGO has also released themes that don’t appeal to me. For example, I love LEGO and I love SpongeBob, but the combination just doesn’t do anything for me. These Ben 10 figures are at the extreme end of that range, with virtually nothing to offer an adult fan like myself.

    Nevertheless, like Bionicle, I can completely get behind these figs if it means The LEGO Group remains profitable and able to continue giving us all the sets we do love.

  10. lostcarpark

    While there aren’t to my taste, I can see compatibility with Bionicle, which is hugely popular with the age group these are aimed at. I can see these being a success.

    The price seems a bit high, though.

  11. David4

    They suck, but so does Bionicle. However if the price is supposed to be $18, that means stores now will charge $20. Even if the children want the sets the parents will go “I’m not spending $100 on 5 action figures!”.

  12. polywen

    When the Ben 10 license was inititally announced, I was one who was excited. As a fan of the show, the possibilities were awesome. I hoped the Galidor rumors weren’t true. As I see them now, I think Lego did fail to capitalize on the license the same way they failed with the Avatar line. They aren’t making what the target demo will buy. As action figures, these sets aren’t very good. Ben 10 already has a line of good action figures. As for the mix and match limbs type play, that toy line already exists for the license as well, with more variety.

    What Lego should have done was introduce minfig scale sets. The first wave should have Kevin’s muscle car with alien tech, Grand Pa Max’s Rust Bucket and Ship, the Alien creature that can turn into a star fighter. They should have also made sets of brick built aliens like Four Arms, Cannon Bolt, Swampfire, Jet Ray etc. This direction would have been a sure fire success.

  13. CatJuggling

    Well, my 10 year old Ben-10 Fan son is very, very excited. I’m happy for that, but not for the price point.

  14. Creative Anarchy

    I really don’t think it would have been such a challenge for Lego to introduce minifig sets into this toy-line. They essentially did it for Toystory. It would have improved the appeal to a wider audience. If you can find these sets on a store shelf in 2011 I’ll buy you a beer. I’m glad that Lego is expanding their base and looking for ways to grow but it sucks that toy lines that I enjoy are getting snubbed to focus on toys that a lot of people agree are an iffy prospect for the company that looks a lot like a lesson Lego should have learned from Galidor.

  15. Benjamin P

    As a Bionicle fan/MOCist, let me say that I am NOT looking forward to even acquiring a few pieces. I like brown and all, but I am just not digging that leg armor. Looking at the other sets, this idea from LEGO is just weird, IMO. It does seem that they would have been better off making System sets with figs. At least we might benefit from it then too.

  16. Brickwares

    My 6 year old will be in heaven with these. Proudlove nailed it, these are made for kids. Likely there will be things that some of you will build using them. But to say that Lego has a miss here is crazy.

    The show is very popular right now, there are a number of characters/aliens to collect, and it’s smack dab in the middle of their demographic.

  17. inkblob

    I agree with Nathan and everyone else who is all for anything that floats the boat. What’s good for the company is good for us in the end, and if a million kids gobble this stuff up then all the better.

    However, I’m in pretty much disagreement with most of the posters here in that I’ll be picking up a few of these kits. I can see lots of useful pieces and shapes in odd colours. There is a widespread tendency within the community of not being able to see past the brand name and at the actual pieces. I collect *everything* including Galidor, there’s bound to be a use for it eventually.

    I have a good thing going on with my kids right now, take Knight’s Kingdom mega figs. They just want the torsos, heads and other specialized pieces. I’m all about the armour, joints and anything else useful. This will probably end up being the same sort of deal, looking forward to this line!

  18. David4

    The problem is I, and many others, this this will fail because of the design, or the price, thus hurting LEGO.

    I’d also argue that the theme hurts real LEGO sets because LEGO instead is making new lame molds for this lame theme instead of spending time making actual sets.

  19. Primus

    I have to agree with many that the price is a very negative point. I’m not going to spend $18 on a set with very few pieces. That’s the main reason why I tend to not buy Bionicle sets right when they come out. I’d like to get more bang for my buck.

    From a building standpoint, these parts are probably going to be easier to integrate into a creation than Galidor pieces. As previously stated, these parts look like they work with the Bionicle ball sockets and such. As a Bionicle builder, there are a few parts in these sets that look like they might be interesting to have.

Comments are closed.


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Windows | Games | Mobile | Wallpapers

Advanced Proxy Manager 0.4Beta

A simple but powerful proxy setting manager for Internet Explorer.

Last Week downloads: 0
Total downloads: 382
  • Last Updated: Nov 12, 2009
  • License: Others Free
  • OS: Windows Vista/2003/XP/2000/98/Me/NT
  • Requirements: .NET Framework

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4 out of 5 based on 1 ratings for Advanced Proxy Manager 0.4Beta

For Advanced Proxy Manager 0.4BetaPublisher's description

Advanced Proxy Manager is a Servers & Network software developed by kdfleischmann. After our trial and test, the software is proved to be official, secure and free. Here is the official description for Advanced Proxy Manager:

EditByBSEditor: A simple but powerful proxy setting MANAGER for Internet Explorer. A tool to allow the Quick Change between many different proxy settings. Allows storage and easy retrieval of several different proxy setting configurations for Internet Explorer.

The idea for this tool has come from my frustrations over not having a quick way within Internet Explorer of switching between using a proxy server and not. If your a user who works on several different networks, possibly a corporate network which has a proxy and a home network that doesn't have one, you've probably experienced similiar frustrations. There are times when you may want to use the same computer to browse while on the corporate network with the proxy enabled and other times where you won't and need to turn off the proxy. Currently to do that you have to click through several screens in IE to turn off the proxy or reconfigure it. The goal of this tool is to simplify that process and provide the ability to change between many different proxy configurations with fewer keystrokes and much less effort. It will also provide a repository of several different sets of proxy settings which will be useful for consultants who may use many different networks with or without proxies to connect to the internet. Hopefully this tool will provide a useful time saver.
you can free download Advanced Proxy Manager 0.4Beta now.

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Windows | Games | Mobile | Wallpapers

EditSafe 1.0

A text editor with built-in version history feature and file comparison feature.

Last Week downloads: 0
Total downloads: 118
  • Last Updated: Jun 29, 2004
  • License: Shareware $19
  • OS: Windows 98/ME/2000
  • Requirements: MS-Word

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4 out of 5 based on 1 ratings for EditSafe 1.0

For EditSafe 1.0Publisher's description

EditSafe is a Office Tools software developed by Knighton Software. After our trial and test, the software is proved to be official, secure and free. Here is the official description for EditSafe:

BSEditor: This program operates as a text editor with the addition of features that allow previously saved versions of text files to be re-created. The author and creation time of each version of the file can be displayed. The differences between versions of the file can be seen in an easy to understand color coded format. Features also included are a file comparison feature that shows the file differences between the Currently edited file and any other specified file.
The program requires no knowledge of version control programs and does not require 'check-ins' or 'check-outs' to be done. The program does not put any special characters into the text files created. It stores all the File Version information in its own History database that is maintained by the program itself.
The program is ideally suited for keeping track of changes to important configuration files. The author and time of each change to files is saved allowing traceability of changes to files.
In order to Prevent the history database from becoming over-sized, the program has options to allow old version information to be removed. Limits can be placed on the number of versions stored for each file, and the number of files that have version information stored. Another limit can remove all versions older than a given age.
An additional maintenance program is included that will Compact the history database to ensure optimal efficiency. This can only be run when no file editing is taking place and so is suited for being run as a scheduled overnight job. A log file is generated to indicate its activity.
All files created are fully compatible with any other text editor, however if changes are made outside of EditSafe, then it will not be possible to maintain the history of the file. For this reason it is advisable to allow EditSafe to act as the standard text editor on your system.
For licensing reasons EditSafe can only run on computers that have Microsoft Word(tm) installed on them.
you can free download EditSafe 1.0 now.

Please be aware that Brothersoft do not supply any crack, patches, serial numbers or keygen for EditSafe,and please consult directly with program authors for any problem with EditSafe.


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Windows | Games | Mobile | Wallpapers

News Media 1.0 free download Buy Now!

One stop place for news from the best sources like CNN, Reuters, CNET, Yahoo

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Jennifer Reeves' When It Was Blue
Artists' Television Access
San Francisco, CA
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Jennifer Reeves' When It Was Blue
Jennifer Reeves In Person

"Drawing as much from the feminist surrealism of Peggy Ahwesh, the interior psychological exploration of Stan Brakhage, and the globalized interiority of Warren Sonbert as from the Vertovian heritage, Jennifer Reeves turns the screen into a materialist writing-pad that moves at the speed of private thought." (Michael Sicinski)

Presented by Cinematheque as a work-in-progress in 2008, Jennifer Reeves' now-completed When It Was Blue is a work of incredible ambition and scope. Described by Chris Stults as "an overwhelmingly powerful achievement on a truly epic scale," the dual-projected, feature-length, 16mm work is a dazzling, deliriously immersive and visceral sound/image experience. Shot over three years in Iceland, New Zealand, Costa Rica and North America, in documentation of our fragile natural world, the filmfiercely overpainted, spectacularly editedexplodes with color and an overpowering sense of nowness, a rushed sense of urgency. In its attempt at maximal expression and globalizing vision, in its fusion of simultaneously micro- and macroscopic views of nature with a blurred sense of subjective visuality and interiority, When It Was Blue is a filmic achievement on par with the most ambitious works of Stan Brakhage, Jack Chambers and Michele Smith, an ecstatic work of complex visual philosophy which aspires (tragically) to nothing less than the reconciliation of objective and subjective realities. Other short works by Reeves will screen. (Steve Polta)

Artists' Television Access (View)
992 Valencia Street
San Francisco, CA
United States

Dog Friendly: No
Non-Smoking: Yes!

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The Beef Cake Comedy Show
Deco Lounge
San Francisco, CA
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The Beef Cake Comedy Show
The Beef Cake Comedy Show features our favorite straight guys comedians telling jokes with their shirts off!

This is for the ladies! Men without shirts who make us laugh! This is better than a love novel and the characters are just as crazy. SF weather may be unpredictable, but June is going to hot!

This show is apart of the Hella Gay Comedy Show series, which is a once a month LGBT Comedy Variety show.  This month we're going straight but not without having a little bit of fun!

This show is perfect for a night out with the girls.  If you are celebrating any kind of stag party for your girlfriends, this is the event is for you!

Our guys know they're going to be objectified so bring the fun and enjoy a terrific night out on the town with us!

With Leslie Small hosting

Anthony Medina
Rajeev Dhar
Ryan Papazian
Danny Dechi
Roman Leo
Matt Gubser
Sam Weber
Rolf Skar
Saw Dem Eyez *Headlining*

The Beef Cake Comedy Show

June 10th, 2012

The Deco Lounge
510 Larkin St.
SF, CA 94102
415 346 2025

21 & Over
10$ Cover
Show starts @ 8:00pm
Doors open @ 7:00pm
No Drink Minimum

Wheelchair Accessible
Full Bar
Mature Content
Arrive early for good seating

The Hella Gay Comedy Show are produced by Charlie Ballard

Deco Lounge (View)
510 Larkin Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
United States

Comedy > Stand Up

Minimum Age: 21
Kid Friendly: No
Dog Friendly: No
Non-Smoking: Yes!
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes!

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1000mg Wild Alaskan Sockeye Salmon Oil, 180 count bottle

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Eligible for FREE Shipping(Eligible for FREE Shipping)

Your Best Choice For Omega 3's.

We are confident that we have found the purest, most natural product available. Please read on to find out why you must consider Sockeye Salmon Oil. For only 40 to 80 cents a day, why deprive your body of this vital, essential oil.

One Bottle Contains 180 Pharmaceutical Grade Softgels, With 1000 mg Per Unit. Recommended dosage: 1 Softgel Capsule per 50 lbs of body weight daily, preferably with a meal, or as recommended by a health care professional.

We also offer 500mg capsules for those who have trouble swallowing larger pills.

Order now and receive Free Shipping on all:

  • Vital Choice Salmon and Krill Oil Supplements
  • FruitFast Softgel Capsules
  • CherryFlex Gel Jars

  • Fish-gelatin capsules
    • Whole, natural and unrefined
    • Purity and potency certified by NSF International
    • Vital Choice wild Alaskan Sockeye Salmon Oil is certified sustainable by the Marine Stewardship Council
  • Our Omega-3 Sockeye Salmon Oil is a whole, non-distilled, cold-filtered oil from wild Alaskan Sockeye.
  • Its highly unusual source, production methods, and nutritional attributes make it a rare  health-promoting whole food supplement.

Vital Choice Salmon Oil versus two major brands. The orange color comes from its natural antioxidant pigment, astaxanthin.

Each 3-capsule (3 gram/3000mg) serving provides these naturally occurring nutrients*:

  • Omega-3s: About 690 mg of total omega-3 fatty acids, including about 330 mg of omega-3 EPA and 300 mg of omega-3 DHA (630 mg combined EPA + DHA).
  • Vitamin D: About 340 IU of vitamin D3.
  • Vitamin A: About 2,060 IU of pre-formed vitamin A.
  • Astaxanthin: About 0.36 mg. Sockeye are the richest of all fish and Salmon species in this extra-potent, carotenoid-class antioxidant pigment. Wild Sockeye absorb astaxanthin from the zooplankton they eat. The naturally occurring astaxanthin in our Sockeye Salmon Oil eliminates any need for the weaker tocopherol antioxidants added to standard fish oils.
  • *Analysis by NSF International (except astaxanthin data, by Covance Labs).
    Our oil is re-tested annually, and the nutrient levels may change slightly from year to year,
    in accordance with natural seasonal and geographic variations.
  • Certified Purity
    Wild Alaskan Sockeye Salmon are among the purest of all ocean fish, consistently testing free of hazardous levels of contaminants. Our fish oil capsules contain only pure wild Alaskan Sockeye Salmon Oil and no detectable mercury (<0.01 ppm). The purity and potency of our Sockeye Salmon Oil are tested and certified by NSF International.
  • A Unique Whole-Food Supplement
    The fatty acid profile of our whole, undistilled Sockeye Salmon Oil approximates that of the source fish more closely than standard fish oils do. Independent research indicates that the triglyceride form omega-3s in whole Salmon (and our Salmon Oil) are absorbed as well or better than the ethyl ester form omega-3s in standard, distilled/deodorized fish oils.
  • Unlike our Salmon Oil, standard fish oils come from diverse fish of unknown purity and must undergo deodorization and molecular distillation to ensure the absence of undesirable odors and contaminants.
  • During these processes, standard fish oils are heated to temperatures in excess of 450 degrees F, which can degrade the structural integrity of their omega-3 molecules.
  • Molecular distillation is also used to concentrate the key omega-3s in fish oil (EPA to DHA), alter their relative proportions, and remove some of their companion fatty compounds: changes that render fish oils into products far removed from their whole food origins*.
  • Salmon Oil should be taken at the recommended dose. Consult with your physician before taking substantially higher doses, or taking this product if you are pregnant, diabetic, allergic to fish or iodine, using blood thinning drugs (e.g., Coumadin), have a diagnosed cardiac condition or immune disorder, or anticipate surgery.

Why does our body need Omega-3's, and why don't we get enough in our diet?

Unless you are eating fatty acid fish at least 3-4 times a week, you are likely not getting enough Omega-3's in your diet. By taking Sockeye Salmon Oil daily, you will be providing your body with the Omega-3 essential fatty acids it craves.

Since their discovery in the 1970s, the omega-3 essential fatty acids have generated thousands of studies and clinical trials. The omega-3 fatty acids are essential at every stage of life, even before birth. They are found in the membrane of every cell in the body and help to ensure that the cell membrane is ideally equipped to do its job. They are also used in the regulation of all biological functions, including those of the cardiovascular, reproductive, immune and nervous systems. Optimum health can be achieved when sufficient omega-3s are obtained.

As the omega-3 fatty acids have physiological effects, it is important that people on prescribed medicines, or who take aspirin on a regular basis, consult their doctor before taking fish oil supplements.

Alaskan Sockeye Salmon are relatively small, short-lived fish that feed at the lower end of the food chain. Consequently they grow free of hazardous levels of contaminants found in larger, longer-lived carnivorous species. After hatching in their natal rivers, sockeye swim upstream to remote, pristine fresh water lakes where they feed and grow for 1-3 years before migrating out to the Bering Sea. During this latter stage of their lives they feed primarily on phytoplankton and krill brimming with antioxidants and omega-3 nutrients that give the sockeye its dramatic red flesh. Unlike farmed salmon, Alaskan Sockeye and all other wild Alaskan salmon species grow free of antibiotics, pesticides, synthetic coloring agents, growth hormones and GMO's.

For these reasons the EPA, FDA, the Alaska Division of Public Health and other organizations have found Alaskan salmon to be among the purest of seafood options, even recommending them to pregnant and nursing woman as a safe fatty fish source of vitally important nutrients.

Nutrition Facts
1000 mg Pure and Natural Softgels

Serving Size 3 softgels

Amount Per Serving
Calories 30 Calories from Fat 30
  % Daily Value*
Total Fat 3g 5%
  Saturated Fat .5g 3%
  Trans Fat 0g
Cholesterol 30mg 10%
Sodium 0g
Total Carbohydrate 0g
  Dietary Fiber 0g
  Sugars 0g
Protein 0g
Vitamin A     2060 IU       40%
Vitamin D     340 IU  85%

Wild Alaskan Sockeye Salmon Oil    3000 mg
Total Omega 3 Fatty Acids`(23%)         600 mg

EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) (8%)       240 mg

DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) (7%)       220 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Ingredients: Wild Alaskan Sockeye Salmon Oil, Softgel Capsule (Fish Gelatin, Glycerin, Purified Water).

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Suselle sailing to the bahamas
rudderless and engineless

Sailing in strange places every day for two years with all the variables that entails will inevitably combine at some points to stretch one's best laid plans.

None of my tricky 'situations' proved detrimental in any way to myself, or the boat, so I am thankful for that.

Alligator River Chart

Alligator River Chart

Loss of Engine and Rudder

I had left Elizabeth City, North Carolina, having had a very nice visit. Hospitality for cruising sailors there has to be experienced to be believed. My trip for that day was to cross the Albemarle Sound and head up the Alligator River to Pamlico Sound and anchor up there for the night.

There was little wind but as it was completely open and excellent for sailing, I just let the boat breeze along at 2-3 knots with the self-steering gear engaged. I figured I had plenty of time.

I was approaching the mouth of the river on the other side of the sound and it was starting to get close to sunset - I realized I should have been watching my progress more carefully. I figured it would be too dark to find my way up the river so I noticed an island off to my left (Durant Island) that looked ideal to anchor off, though it was just off my detail chart. I carefully motored over to the island and had over 10' depth the whole way.

I checked the forecast. It said the wind would increase that night coming from the northwest so I was OK with that as I would be on a weather shore off the island.

About 2:00 am in the morning I was woken by the movement of the boat and surprised by how much it was bouncing around. The wind was more westerly than forecast and the waves were sneaking around the west end of the island.

As soon as there was daylight I set off under jib alone and watched my depth sounder as I headed back, doing my best to retrace my path coming in, as I was off the chart at this stage. I was somewhat concerned that the depth was only 5-6 feet. I realized the tide must be much lower than when I came in. I was making good progress when all of a sudden I had this feeling the boat was just not moving the way it should be with this wind. I decided to start the engine as I did not want to deviate from my retrace path by making leeway off it. Even with the engine the boat did not seem to be moving well, and the depth was now consistently five feet. I was getting quite concerned due to how rough it was and the barely adequate depth.

Just then there was a 'bang' and my engine stopped instantly. The boat did not appear to hit anything and was still moving so I had no idea what happened. I checked for any ropes hanging over the side but everything was in its place. I tried to restart the engine but the starter motor stalled as soon as I tried. I tried to tack then but the boat would not go around. The depth was getting closer to four feet. Rather than risk going aground, I dropped the jib, ran to the bow and dropped my biggest anchor. The boat stood into the wind, taught on the anchor chain. Suddenly there was a light bang as the keel had hit the bottom in a trough. I realized, to my horror, that with the boat now vertical, the keel was hitting the bottom. I knew there would be the occasional large wave and I was very concerned at any moment the boat would hit the bottom harder. It was then I noticed I could only move the rudder one way. This was hard to understand as the keel mounted rudder is so strong.

I realized I was in a very bad predicament. It was still dawn with very little light, gale force winds, no motor, effectively no rudder, my boat in four feet of water miles from any shore in an area I had no chart, with the keel hitting occasionally. The tide was almost certainly still ebbing, and the winds were forecast to get stronger!

I suddenly had an awful feeling of total despair - my two year trip was just beginning. I then began to feel really angry at the situation that had developed and determined to get out of it quickly and not have my beloved boat damaged.

I figured if I put up both sails I could sail, and steer, the boat without the rudder, I had been trained to do this in dinghy sailing years ago. I would just retrace my path back to the island where I knew it was deeper and have enough protection from the waves to go over the side and fix whatever I had to. The big concern was that the rudder had a permanent offset to one side. I quickly realized that the tiller was slightly offset was to the weather side which would actually help sailing back to the island.

I quickly raised the main and ran to the bow and went to haul up the anchor. I quickly hauled up the jib and 'swung' onto the appropriate tack.

I ran back to the cockpit and played the jib sheet and main sheet to keep the boat on course back to the island. I had both sails hard in and steered using the mainsheet (I kept the rudder as close to centre as it would allow with my knees.)

The maneuver seemed to work well, the boat was on its ear and the keel never touched bottom. I was incredibly relieved to see that is was working. I noticed, in the increasing light, that there was a light rope dragging behind the boat. I instantly recognised it as a lobster pot line and then it occurred to me what must have happened, at least why the boat was slow at the start and why the engine stopped suddenly. The depth crept back to 6 feet. I managed to steer the boat right up to the island and dropped my second anchor as close to the island as I dared.

I put on my heavy foul weather gear, snorkel, and weight belt and went down my swim ladder. I held myself firmly to the self-steering gear as I moved myself below the surface to see what was with my prop and rudder. I found that the lobster pot line had wrapped tightly around the prop-shaft between the propeller and the cutlass bearing and wound so tightly that the propeller shaft was actually forced out about 1/2" and the propeller nut on the end of the propeller shaft was now interfering with the rudder only allowing it to move one way. I got a serrated kitchen knife and put my cold wet foul weather gear on again and went over the side. It was very difficult to cut the rope wound around the prop shaft making sure I didn't scratch the shaft.

To finally cut the rope off the shaft required six trips under the boat and back into my sleeping bag to warm up. It took about three hours.

The rudder appeared to be undamaged other than a bit of a scratch where the shaft nut rubbed against its side. I reconnected the prop shaft to the transmission, the alignment still seemed to be perfect. I started the engine and engaged forward and reverse and it seemed to be working just fine. My rudder was free again.

I set off carefully again and sailed straight over to the channel having 6' plus the whole way as the tide had risen. What a relief to be back in the channel again!

The whole incident was quite an experience and where a whole set of unfavourable events occurred at the wrong time - not making sure I got to my planned destination, the island being just off the chart, the gale force winds from an unfavourable direction, the tide being at its lowest point, the lone lobster pot right on my path compounded by my decision to leave before I had good light, all combined to create a very difficult situation.


text:
My first Digital Darkroom Workshop

I'm just home from leading my first ever "Fieldwork to Digital-Darkroom" workshop, which entails marrying what is done out in the field with the post-edit stage. My course is based on my e-book - 'The Digital Darkroom - Image Interpretation Techniques'

Still very much a work-in-progress e-book, but I feel I'm getting a better sense of what should be included now that I'm teaching digital-darkroom interpretation skills.

Still very much a work-in-progress e-book, but I feel I'm getting a better sense of what should be included now that I'm teaching digital-darkroom interpretation skills.

The course was run at Adrian Hollister's Open Studio environment in the north-west of Scotland. Adrian runs many workshops with such notables as Joe Cornish, David Ward, Eddie Euphramus and the wonderful Paul Wakefield. His studio has six iMac computers, all colour calibrated and it's on the door-step of some wonderful landscapes which are within a 30 minute drive. Perfect venue for running such a workshop.

I've been wanting to run a course like this for a very long time, because I feel that the editing stage is often considered as an almost secondary, isolated task, something that is unrelated to the capture stage.

Adrian Hollister's Digital Darkroom Studio, Mellon Charles, Wester Ross, Scotland

Adrian Hollister's Digital Darkroom Studio, Mellon Charles, Wester Ross, Scotland

I firmly believe that the fieldwork and editing stages are interrelated. Our editing sessions teach us about things we didn't notice at the time of capture and they illustrate to us what we need to be more aware of in future - if we choose to make the connection! Similarly, once we know how far we can push and pull images in the digital-darkroom, we are in a more informed position whilst choosing certain subjects, contrasts and qualities of light. There is a symbiotic nature between the two, and so for me, the word 'post' as in 'post-process' discourages our thinking into believing both tasks are unrelated, when they are not.

In fact, I abhor the phrase 'post-process' because it makes the entire editing stage sound like a functional, emotionless act. Images become something you could just stick in a washing machine, turn a few dials and let it run on auto. Which isn't the case. Editing requires much awareness - of tonal relationships, of competing elements, of flow throughout the image.

And adjustments made in the digital-darkroom should be made whilst noticing how our emotional response is affected when we change tones and contrasts in the work. It is much to do about 'feel' as it is to do about technology.

So I made a point that this week's workshop would not be about teaching photoshop, or teaching Lightroom. Anyone can do that in their own time, and that kind of knowledge is easy to get. No, what I wanted to teach was how to interpret what you've captured - to see and take advantage of themes present within the composition, to notice tonal relationships between subjects within the frame, to see that each image has an underlying structure that almost spells out how it should be edited to bring these motifs further forward.

The digital darkroom is a creative space, one where we can bring out the essence of the motifs we discover in the image. That's its primary function for me. I do not see this as a way for fixing bad images. A bad image is always a bad image. We have an expression here 'you can't polish a turd'. Instead, I see it as a way to bring out the beauty and essence that can, with a bit of interpretation, be found in a good image.

But interpretation is a skill, and like composition, has to be earned and improved over the lifespan of our involvement with photography. There is no manual for this, just an improved ability to read an image, to understand what is going on, and to know your toolkit (software) well enough to be able to bring forward your interpretation.

So I was curious to see how my group of participants would edit their work after five days of guidance and continuous feedback. I definitely saw improvements in most participants work. Certainly in the daily reviews I would notice that all of the participants had observations and awareness of what might be done to help remove distractions, or bring out themes within the work, but what I had not envisaged was that some of the group would be far too subtle with their edits and I think there are a few reasons for this.

Firstly, each one of us has our own aesthetic. We have our own tastes. Some photographers are more interested in the verbatim. What they see out in the landscape is what they want to capture, and so the edits will be done with a lot of sympathy for how they perceived their reality.

Secondly, some will under-edit because of a lack of objectivity. Ideally we need a few weeks between capture and edit. I always find that if trying to edit work straight away is hard because we're so often attached to an idea of what we wanted to convey and if the image is not successful in this regard, we may feel it is not a success. Leave it for a few weeks and you will come back to it with a fresh eye. If there are any motifs of themes within the image - you're more likely to work with those because you're more open to see other things where you were not at the point of capture.

Thirdly, I think under-editing happens through a lack of confidence. Too scared to adjust the image too much because the photographer feels they don't have enough skill to know what to do. But I also think it may be because they feel they may lose something in the process, and could be holding onto how the image looks now, and can't see beyond that to another destination.

It's this that interests me most and I must confess that I feel there is no clear answer. Editing is a skill that is derived from many years of self-improvement. If I look back at my own editing abilities, and consider images I shot 10 years ago, I can see that often I knew there was something missing in an image, but I couldn't put my finger on what it might be. I see tonal errors in them where at the time of edit, my abilities were so untuned I thought I saw beauty. Where I was perhaps overcome by the strong colours of my chosen film, I now see a clumsy edit.

Digital-darkroom skills take a lifetime of continuous self-improvement. We have to put the work in. But we also have to be smart about it. Simply cranking up contrasts or saturation across the board is a clumsy way to edit work, and it should be something that doesn't happen so much as it did when you began your editing career. But things only change if you take the time to consider and reflect on what might be the best way forward to edit your work, and self-awareness is something that has to be built upon over time.

I found my Digital-Darkroom workshop did help my participants. There were moments where I felt I had led my horses to water, only they were unable to drink, because if they can't see it themselves, then I can't force them to. Improving editing skills can't be rushed, but certainly a week in the field and behind a computer with a photographer you like the work of, may help bring about an improved sense of awareness, and that's what I believe happened this week.