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Healthforce Center is uniquely positioned to identify and understand the most pressing health workforce issues, to empower leaders to address these issues, and to produce knowledge that influences policy. To read more about our projects and impact, see the list below.

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Enhancing the Utilization of Peer Providers in California

Peer providers are individuals with lived experience who are hired to provide direct support to persons in recovery from mental health (MH) and/or substance use disorders (SUD).

Assessing the Adequacy of the Behavioral Health Workforce in California

Around 18 percent of adults in California report needing help for mental health problems or issues with substance abuse, but can the state's behavioral health workforce meet this growing demand?...

Implementation of Clinical Decision Support Tools Into a Large Group Dental Practice

The use of clinical decision support (CDS) tools to develop individualized, evidence-based treatment plans is becoming increasingly popular with electronic health records (EHR).

Community Health Workers in California

This research, funded by Blue Shield of California Foundation,  examines community health workers in California.

Evaluating Standardized Preventive Care to Reduce Dental Disparities in Children

This research project, which is being funded by NIH’s National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), will evaluate the disparity reduction and oral health improvement potential of...

Evaluation of Community Paramedicine Pilot Projects

In December 2013, the California Emergency Medical Services Authority (EMSA) proposed a pilot project that would assess the feasibility of community paramedicine, a model of care in which...

California Physicians’ Participation in Medicaid

Recent increases in enrollment in Medi-Cal (California’s Medicaid program) due to the Affordable Care Act have heightened concerns about whether sufficient numbers of physicians are participating...


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Helena Town Car Co. Airport Limousine Service

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Affordable Statewide Limo service:

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We assist all types of customers from Executive Transfers, families, and groups.

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Tag Archives: comicbooks

vol 97

Today comic enthusiasts celebrate the 100th birthday of one of the medium’s most prolific and creative contributor: Jack Kirby.
Born as Jakob Kurtzberg to a couple of austrian refugees he lived a life that demanded a certain hardening; from the regular fights in his neighborhood, the people who took offense with his jewish heritage to the events he witnessed as a reconnaissance officer in World War II. But all those things it seems have been repurposed into fuel for his creativity. You have to really work on yourself if you probably propose[1] this as a depiction of mankind after you took a trip through the madhouse of war:

The first time i heard about the King of Comics was in the editorial of a german Spider-Man comic; it was his obituary. And to my discredit i admit that i quickly read over the text, stuttered a short “I’m sorry for the loss.” and continued to read the next installment of Maximum Carnage.
Over the coming years i continued stumbling over Jack Kirby’s legacy but it took me a while to finally look up the man’s body of work; which made me realize why he was called “The King” by his peers (after the title publisher Martin Goodman gave himself, and got mocked for behind his back): his work ethic and creativity made him produce a massive amount of pages, he had his hands in the creation of romance comics and helped invent the visual language of modern superhero comics. Mister Miracle, Big Barda, Darkseid as well as the rest of the Fourth World pantheon, Etrigan, Kamandi, the Challengers of the Unknown, OMAC, Machine Man, the Fantastic Four, the Hulk, the X-Men, the Avengers, the mighty Thor, the Eternals, Uatu the Watcher and Captain America are only a few of the figures that are still in use to this day; all of them played a role in my path through the world of visual storytelling.

But like many of the people who paved the way for modern comics his name isn’t the one on everyone’s lips. “Comics will break your heart.”[2] is a sentence of his that is uttered amongst the enthusiasts and pros alike. I hope it wasn’t the medium but the industry that caused his heartache[3], because i imagine this man sitting before his drafting table drawing and creating page after page, creating his legacy with a twinkle in his eye instead of constant resentment of his profession; because it would make feel the readers enthusiasm for his work like the crack of a whip.

[1] The Kirbymuseum website has a short article about it. [link]
[2] James Romberger was told by Kirby to put his art in galleries because the industry didn’t treat him very well. [link]
[3] One of the many articles on the web telling the troubled story of royalties and acknowledgement of their work. [link]
Further reading: a short story about the relationship between Stan Lee and Jack Kirby; Citizen Conn by Michael Chabon

Thank You for Your time!
Stay Cosmic!

[review] Mister Miracle no.1

“Of course this title was going to be his pick of the week no matter if it turns out to be a turd sandwich served with a glass of warm Natursekt.” is probably the first thought when i declare that Mister Miracle no.1 is my comic of the week. And that is true because i already enjoyed last weeks New Gods Special more than is warranted.

Jack Kirby’s creations, and the figures from his Fourth World in particular, all have an aura around them; an honesty that has become a mainstay in contemporary comics but even years after their first publication feels like nothing else.
And in the centennial of the King Of Comics DC-Comics publishes a continuation of one of the most beloved figures and the Fourth World he inhabits that evokes an almost equal buzz as when i read Mister Miracle’s premiere issue.

Of course, DC made sure this book would cause a wave by giving writer Tom King and artist Mitch Gerards the keys to the Hot Rod that Grandpa built back in the day but Dad put a blanket upon because he did not get the time to continue the work (which is an elaborate metaphor for Grant Morisson’s work on the characters).

The comic opens with a facette that always was there in the beginning of Scott Free’s existence as the greatest escape artist there is, but twists it to the ultimate conclusion: only the best escape artist can built the ultimate trap for himself. But not only does the contraption put Mister Miracle in chains; the whole pantheon of the New Gods is trapped with him.
And as if that isn't enough to push against; Darkseid is.

But the story of this escape act would not work as well as it wasn’t for Mitch Gerards. He makes the characters stand out of their surroundings; gives them the boldness that is associated with New Gods and Forever People. But while Kirby gave us figures that feel like springs under permanent tension declaring their readiness to expand any moment by emanating the famous Kirby crackle, Gerards relies on their presence to instill the awesomeness of the figures.
He deepens the unrealiable nature of what we see on the page by working with distortions and in one instance even by placing pieces of adehsive tape on the page.

A downside to this issue is that a person that reads this issue without prior knowledge of the characters and their relations to each other and the larger DC-Universe could put it away with the thought of it being nothing more than DC trying to copy the “artsy fartsy” approach Tom King brought to the Vision or the Omega Men. But like with the two mentioned series, he examines an aspect of the character in his way, or in this case rather focuses on an ignored one: Scott Free was sent to a life of torture at the hands of Darkseid and Granny Goodness to secure a peace treaty that only was honored until it afforded Darkseid to further his power.

While i am counting the days until the second issue is officially released (September 13th) the sentence above presents the biggest stone in the way of this title to become more than just a Kirby acolyte’s favourite contemporary comic. But the events unfold in the broader continuity of the DC Universe, and when Darkseid is mentioned there is more at stake than just the city a hero is located at.

Mister Miracle no.1
published by DC-Comics
written by Tom King
art by Mitch Gerards
lettered by Clayton Clowes

[read] The Omega Men tpb (2017)

With the Tom King train on full speed, i decided to check out Omega Men, which i ignored during it’s publication in single issues.
That title left me devastated, like any other King title, but the path to that final punch in the nuts is a fascinating one. The lines that are usuaally drawn in heavily pigmented black ink isn’t clearly defined, and in the middle of the fog of war is Kyle Raynor; trying to navigate the grey zone as well as possible.
The artwork further drives the point across that no one in this comic is acting out of true altruism. Everything seems to have taken a short bath in a black wash that won’t come off.

new webcomic by Tom Scioli

Seems like i lived under a rock for the last three weeks. Tom Scioli, one of my favourite artists/writers in comics started a new webcomic.
It’s to early to make a statement avout the nature of the story, but Scioli’s artwork combines the style he adopted during his work on Satan’s Soldier through Transformers vs G.I. Joe with cleaner linework.

You can find his new work, Princess, here.

[read] Kamandi challenge No.1 (2017)

Great idea: twelve different artists/writer teams write an installment each month, leaving the cliffhanger to be solved by the next team. In the next issue the team from the preceding issue will write their idea of the conclusion for their cliffhanger in the letters section.
I don’t buy the paragraph about DC not being able to settle on a team for an ongoing.
That aside, i dug the issue. Picks up a lot from the classic first issue, Giffen and Eaglesham are doing their best to honor the King while retaining their styles while the story moves at a rather fast pce for our decompressed age.

linked up vol.5

Friday, time to share some links. Some i do comment, some not. Some lead to german internet presences.

# 15-Second Reviews of All the Movies We Saw at the 2017 Sundance Film Festival

# 2 New Uchu Sentai KyuRanger Promo Videos Online!
Oh, it’s that time of the year again. I get so used to the current Super Sentai or Kamen Rider show that i forgot that they only run for a year. As much as i dig the current show, Zuohger, those promo clips are looking good.

# Meet Saccorhytus, bloblike human ancestor that shat through its mouth

# Ben Affleck Steps Down as Director of ‘The Batman’!

# Bernie Wrightson Retires Due To Health

# DC Comics Recreating Snagglepuss As A Gay Man Brought Before The House Committee On Un-American Activities!

# It’s Official: The Dune Reboot Has Found Its Director

# PETA Complains About Plastic Figurines Wearing Fur While The Rest Of The World Laughs At The Irony

# Dave Gibbons To Teach You “How Comics Work” In A New Book

# Playmobil Hits Us In The Feels With Their New Ghostbusters Line
Seems like Playmobil is making a big push. First the six-inch collaboration figures with Funko (fourth Doctor!!) and now these. And they look eat too. For me the Playmobil aesthetic lacks something that puts Lego in favor.


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Matrix42 Self-Service Help Center

Navigation Item Endpoint Devices

Endpoint Devices

Under the navigation item Endpoint Devices you will see all the devices stored in the management system (Modern and Classic) with the most important information. By clicking on a device displayed in the list, another window opens with further information and configuration options, such as Create Assignment, Create Task or apply further Actions under . This also applies to the other navigation buttons under Devices > Mobiles Workstations, Servers, Virtual Machines.

Furthermore, one or more new search filters can be configured. A guide to the filters can be found here.

The help for the Actions you will find here.

In the lower part of the window, all applications installed on the respective device are displayed.

Create Assignments

Clicking the button opens the Assignment window, in which an appropriate assignment can be configured for the selected device.

Status is used to set whether the assignment is inactive in the Empirum Management System or whether it is activated.

Rollout Start let you chose the time of activation.

Click Add to open a window that displays all devices stored in the Empirum Management System. From this list you can now select all devices to be added to this assignment group.

The Objects window lists all software types that can be added to the assignment group.

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There are some rules I think we all need to get out in the open.

First let me just say that I really want a glass of wine right now but I want it in such a way that tells me I should not have it. So I’m eating lonesome cheese.

The rules are regarding your partner’s friendships with people of your partner’s preferred gender*. These rules should not be followed to arbitrarily and tyrannically, like curfews in ghettos at wartime, but should be considered for the spirit of safety and fairness. Because we want to. Because it’s better.

Okay, so I guess there really is only one rule. It is this:

If you are friends with someone and they have a partner, you must demonstrate to that partner that you are not a threat. It doesn’t matter how stable their relationship is. You must introduce yourself and be nice to them. Pay attention to them, be courteous. Make them feel like you respect/like them. Think of the animal kingdom, be a little bit submissive. You don’t have to go over the top but a small gesture goes a long way.

There’s no excuse for not following this rule. This rule is especially important if you are attractive, and there is even less excuse for not following it if this is the case, since you are used to being threatening. If you find yourself resistant to compliance, really ask yourself why. Ignorance is not valid; we’ve all been there, and we all know at least intuitively how to create (un)safe environments. But if you claim you weren’t aware of it, now I’ve told you, and don’t say you would have lived your life different if only you’d known this before.

*I’m trying not to be heterosexist. You get the idea: If you are a queer man and your partner is friends with another queer man, or if you are a straight woman and your male partner is friends with another straight woman, etc.


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American Autowire

American Autowire logo

American Autowire is a premier automotive electrical manufacturer of OEM, restoration, and performance parts for stock, modified, and customized rides. Co-founded by Michael Manning and Frank Colonna in 1983, this company had humble beginnings as a basement business in Laurel Springs, New Jersey.

Fast forward thirty years and the modern operation is based in a manufacturing facility in Bellmawr, New Jersey. The founders are still working away with the assistance of a sizable workforce and a more resourceful operation.

Hailed by buyers as being "extremely well-made", "the best quality product", and "truly painless" when customers offered feedback about their products -- American Autowire puts a lot of consideration into the parts they make. These products are made by car enthusiasts, for car enthusiasts.

Some of the American Autowire products that we carry include Classic Update and Highway Series wiring harnesses as well as:

• Alternator Conversion Harnesses for - 64-72 Chevelle55-57 Passenger Cars62-72 Nova, and 60-72 Trucks

• Backup Light Harnesses for - 55-57 Passenger Cars62-68 Nova, and 62-66 Trucks

• Clock Harnesses for - 64 and 68-72 Nova

• Console Harnesses for - 62-69 Impala64-72 Chevelle, and 63-74 Nova

• Convertible Top Harnesses for - 64-72 Chevelle

• Cowl Induction Harnesses for - 70-72 Chevelle

• Dash Cluster Harnesses for - 63-65 Impala, and 60-66 Trucks

• Dome Light Harnesses for - 58-67 Impala64-72 Chevelle62-74 Nova, and 60-72 Trucks

• Engine Harnesses for - 58-70 Impala64-72 Chevelle62-74 Nova, and 60-72 Trucks

• Front Light Harnesses for - 58-70 Impala64-72 Chevelle62-74 Nova, and 55-72 Trucks

• Fuel Tank Sender Harnesses for - 67-72 Chevelle73-74 Nova, and 64-72 Trucks

• Headlight / Alternator / Generator Harnesses for - 55-57 Passenger Cars

• Heater / AC Harnesses for - 62-72 Trucks

• Overdrive Harnesses for - 55-57 Passenger Cars

• Parklight / Grille Bar Harnesses for - 55-57 Passenger Cars

• Rear Body Harnesses for - 64-72 Chevelle62-74 Nova, and 60-72 Trucks

• Starter / Ignition Harnesses for - 55-57 Passenger Cars

• Tachometer Harnesses for - 61-66 Impala, 64-67 Chevelle, 62-66 Nova, and 61-72 Trucks

• Taillight Harnesses for - 58-70 Impala and 55-57 Passenger Cars

• Transmission Harnesses for - 64-72 Chevelle

• Under Dash Harnesses for - 58-70 Impala, 64-72 Chevelle, 55-57 Passenger Cars, and 62-74 Nova, and 60-72 Trucks

• Windshield Wiper Harnesses for - 64-66 Chevelle and 64-66 Trucks

All products made by American Autowire are American-made right there in their facility where work is overseen by the founders and visionaries of the company.

Current offerings from American Autowire include 5 different specialty product lines of wiring harnesses, various accessories, and select parts needed in all different types of automotive projects. Customers can even find tools and resources for projects like assembly manuals from the factory or crimp tools.

In the Factory Fit product line, shoppers will discover over 9,000 American Autowire products complete with original specification wiring harnesses, switches, battery cables, and spark plug wires. The Classic Update Series features completely modified restoration kits -- while their Power Plus, Builder, and Highway series lines offer integrate fuse panels, and modular fuse panels for street rod wiring.

The bottom line about American Autowire products is that they make wiring easier for the at-home and professional mechanics of all skill level and backgrounds. This mission by American Autowire is what makes them a preferred choice amongst our customers at H&H Classic Parts when given the option of buying from competitors.


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December 6, 2016 Top 10 Best Christmas Movies

Written by Patrick

As Christmas is approaching soon, we all are getting excited. Families are starting to get together, meals are already decided, Christmas decoration is already being put up, the Christmas tree is ready and so does the Christmas presents. Everyone is ready to start celebrating the most wonderful time of the year!

One great way to enjoy the holidays is to sit down, relax and watch some Christmas movies along with your loved ones. Who doesn’t like to curl up in a comfy blanket and watch some holiday classics? We have gathered a list of top 10 Christmas Movies that haven’t aged well and are as refreshing as you are watching them for the first time.

List of Top 10 Christmas Movies

1. Home Alone (1990)

IMDb Rating: 6.5 / 10

Director: Chris Columbus

Stars: Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern

2. A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)

IMDb Rating: 8.5 / 10

Director: Bill Melendez

Stars: Ann Altieri, Chris Doran, Sally Dryer

3. Elf (2003)

IMDb Rating: 6.9 / 10

Director: Jon Favreau

Stars: Will Ferrell, James Caan, Bob Newhart

4. Frozen (2013)

IMDb Rating: 7.7 / 10

Director: Chris Buck, Jennifer Lee

Stars: Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, Jonathan Groff

5. A Christmas Story (1983)

IMDb Rating: 8.1 / 10

Director: Bob Clark

Stars: Peter Billingsley, Melinda Dillon, Darren McGavin

6. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

IMDb Rating: 8.1 / 10

Director: Henry Selick

Stars: Danny Elfman, Chris Sarandon, Catherine O’Hara

7. The Santa Clause 2 (2002)

IMDb Rating: 5.5 / 10

Director: Michael Lembeck

Stars: Tim Allen, Spencer Breslin, Elizabeth Mitchell

8. A Christmas Carol (2009)

IMDb Rating: 6.8 / 10

Director: Robert Zemeckis

Stars: Jim Carrey, Gary Oldman, Colin Firth

9. Christmas Vacation (1989)

IMDb Rating: 7.5 / 10

Director: Jeremiah S. Chechik

Stars: Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo, Juliette Lewis

10. Jingle all the way (1996)

IMDb Rating: 7.5 / 10

Director: Brian Levant

Stars: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sinbad, Phil Hartman

Hope you guys like the movies. Stay tune with us and there’s more to come this Christmas.

Subscribe Now!


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    TWO WONDERFUL JACK ARMSTRONG PREMIUMS. Launched in 1933 by a Chicago advertising agency, Jack Armstrong, the All American Boy, was one of the first and most memorable juvenile radio shows. It ran from 1933 to 1950, when in '51 "Armstrong changed to Armstrong of the SBI".  These two pieces are from the earlier radio show and are in great condition. The "Magic Answer Box" is in excellent condition and comes with the original mailing box. The rarer of the two items is the "Jack Armstrong Bombsight" which comes with the assembly instructions. This instruction piece is complete but has some holes and discoloration.  It is still very readable and gives you the info needed to play along.  The Magic Box is approximately 3 3/4" long with the Bombsight being slightly smaller.  Two great premium pieces recalling an earlier day of great radio that fueled the imagination of many kids.

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Comments on a cultural reality between past and future.

This blog describes Metatime in the Posthuman experience, drawn from Sir Isaac Newton's secret work on the future end of times, a tract in which he described Histories of Things to Come. His hidden papers on the occult were auctioned to two private buyers in 1936 at Sotheby's, but were not available for public research until the 1990s.

Monday, August 15, 2011

The Art of the Retcon 2: DCnU's Orwellian Timecrunch

The DCnU panel at the 2011 San Diego Comic Con.  Image Source: Grizzly Bomb.

I've already commented on DCnU in terms of the demographics of anticipated readers here, and comics archetypes here. DCnU also reveals a disturbing, and very Millennial, treatment of history and time. The Internet has completely transformed our understanding of both.  This is because computer systems allow any historical source to be ripped out of context and juxtaposed with something that popped up yesterday.  Even before the Tech Revolution, the idea grew in the 20th century.

The most famous use of real life retcons is in Stalinist-era USSR, when apparatchiks who fell out of favour were erased from photographs, which I have blogged about here.  It was used in South America in the 1970s, when political dissidents 'disappeared' and their identities were wiped off the face of the earth, as though they had never existed.  In Nineteen Eighty-Four, Orwell had his protagonist employed in rewriting old newspaper articles to erase records of people later deemed undesirable by the state.  This critique of oligarchical collectivism spawned his famous INGSOC line: "Who controls the past controls the future; who controls the present controls the past."

Now, I'm not saying that the core messages in DC's fictions have anything in common with murderous dictatorships. Rather, I am suggesting that the use and abuse of history has become widespread across cultures and political spectrums in the 20th and 21st centuries.  It used to be that the past was sacred.  What had been done could not be undone.  It could be reinterpreted by historians, but only within reason and in well-sourced and well-defended arguments.  Given Orwell's communist critiques, it's tempting to put a political spin on this - socialists call for revolutions, liberals like change, conservatives cling to the past.  But the dangerous Postmodern notion that rewriting or erasing history brings money and power is seductive to all who seek them.

Beyond the not-too-subtle transition from 'DC Comics' to 'DC Entertainment' that lurks in DC's press releases, and the common touch Marvellization of the DCU under the stewardship of Bob Harras and Dan Didio, I find the Stalinist-style retcons unsettling.  The selective retcon is troubling because it blatantly favours certain characters (presumably the ones deemed most bankable and interesting) and entrenches a retrograde view of DC's legacies, in which older characters are deaged and promoted at the expense of younger ones. DC's erasure of continuities is actually secondary to the primary goal of maintaining the eternal youth of its A-list superheroes.  DC is the Grand Old Man of the comic book industry, but that is the absolute last thing DC's leading lights would want to consider in terms of branding.  DC is more a Grand Old Man with a Peter Pan complex.

If DC has a fraught, come-here-go-away relationship with history, many of its fans do not.  The loyalty of most of DC's readers rests on their fascination with fictional histories and continuities.  No amount of DC's nay-saying is going to change that.  Even the most anti-continuity fan would acknowledge that the legacy-driven, multiversal DCU is a thoroughly time-oriented universe.

There is a site devoted to the subject, which sadly hasn't been updated since late 2010: The Unauthorized Chronology of the DC Universe.  The Webmaster, Chris Miller, greets visitors with the tagline: "Welcome to the DC Universe ... where the past isn't what it used to be."  You can see his timeline of the DCU, spanning millions of years, here.  It would be great if the current powers that be at DC actually read Miller's site.  He says something important about how interest in continuity forges a fanbase:

The Allure of Constructed Reality

Here’s my attitude toward continuity: I like it. In fact, I find it downright fascinating, when used intelligently. Not just in comics, but in any fictional setting. Movies, television shows, novels, by a single author or “shared”—in almost every case, an attentive handling of continuity is the lagniappe, the little something extra that really grabs me and rounds out the satisfaction that should always come from losing oneself in a good story.

It’s important even in a self-contained work (in almost any narrative, future events should logically follow from present and past events, as a matter of basic causality and fair play with the audience), but it’s particularly important in serial fiction. Readers want to know about the world the characters live in, how it affects and is affected by the stories. Details accumulate from one tale to the next, building layers of depth and complexity that can’t be contained in any single story. This is especially so in fantasy or SF material (a realm that certainly contains super-hero comics), as the fictional world can be assumed to have several interesting differences from the mundane one outside the reader’s window. Indeed, those differences are often a critical part of the story.

Critics object that such things are a deterrent to “casual readers” (especially critics who seem more concerned with marketing strategy than creative integrity, the sort of people who refer to characters as “franchises”). For my part, I suspect that casual readers have never really been the main devotees of “genre” material, in any medium. From Sherlock Holmes to Star Trek, J.R.R. Tolkien to J.K. Rowling, it’s stuff that by its very nature either turns people off, or turns them into fans. And it therefore stands to reason that a publisher, in order to sustain a loyal fan base, needs to care about continuity.

This is what keeps us coming back, what turns casual readers into fans—this sense of depth and context. We care about the characters and their world, and we want to know what happens to them, beyond the parameters of any single tale’s plot. (New readers should still be able to enjoy any individual story, of course—albeit not necessarily as much as fans. This isn’t a zero-sum game.) We want to see how the events and revelations of this issue, this chapter, this episode, carry over into the next, and the one after that. Conversely, it doesn’t matter how long ago something was stated to be canonical, only that it was stated within the context of the same fictional reality. Today’s story doesn’t necessarily have to rely on knowledge of what has gone before, but it shouldn’t contradict it either, not without a truly compelling reason.

That doesn’t mean turning a comics line into an endless series of big crossover “events,” although it does allow for character crossovers in a way self-contained material doesn’t. Nor does it mean telling stories devoted to mining the past rather than exploring imaginative new ideas, although it does allow new tales to be built on the foundation of old ones. Caring about continuity does mean acknowledging and respecting what has gone before in a given fictional reality, if only because you know that a significant chunk of the readership is going to notice if you don’t.

Some of us just can’t help it, in fact. Much of my perspective on this has been shaped and refined by online discussion with other thoughtful fans. As Edgar Governo (creator of the wonderful Historian of Things That Never Were site) has put it,
I think what we’re seeing is the operation of a particular turn of mind… some readers automatically keep track of the implicit and explicit chronology. They can’t shut it off, even when it’s obvious that a narrative’s chronology is being driven by the needs of a sloppily contrived ongoing plot, rather than any underlying plan or logic. … I think people with this turn of mind (especially when they're fans of a work, but not only then) have a need for their fiction to have at least as much historical, geographic, and other consistency as the real world does. It goes beyond wanting to infer the world that lies within an ongoing plot—we need it to be a world in the first place, capable of inference.”
Granted, meeting that standard is not an easy job. The more complex a fictional universe becomes, the more crucial it becomes to determine, What is canonical and what is apocryphal?—and the more difficult it becomes to answer that question, and adhere to the answer. It’s understandable why some writers and editors, if they’re confused or uninspired by what has gone before, might prefer the creative “freedom” of ignoring or revising it on the fly. Unfortunately, this exacerbates the problem for other storytellers trying to work within the same reality, and the reader is left to sort out the results.

Such an approach ultimately places (perceived) short-term business interests ahead of longer-term ones, never mind creative ones. If the continuity critics were right, comics sales should be soaring: continuity is widely being treated as optional and disposable, with countless stories rewriting the rules for their own purposes by authorial whim. “Good stories” should be ruling the day, because writers aren’t “shackled” by what has gone before, and new “casual” readers should be flocking to them! Unsurprisingly, this doesn’t seem to be happening. Picking and choosing what’s canonical on an ad hoc basis only makes things more confusing, not less.
The DCU’s long, rich, complex history, populated by a diverse and fascinating array of characters, is one of its greatest attractions. Its long list of reboots and retcons and inconsistent origins and multiple versions of characters is one of its greatest weaknesses. The surreal sense that reality can shift around you at authorial whim is not what most readers are looking for.
As Miller notes, another blog, The History of Things that Never Were, includes a list of DCU timelines that have been posted online; it shows how dedicated fans are to DC's history:

  • The Unauthorized Chronology of the DC Universe, compiled by Chris J. Miller, prides itself on standing out from the crowd, as it were, by being "complete, comprehensive, canonical, cross-referenced, original, and annotated."

  • The Unofficial History of the DC Universe is also meant to chronicle the events of the DC Universe as it now stands, "spanning from creation to the end of time," but at this point, it only covers events up to "13 Years Ago."

  • Loki Carbis has compiled The Secret History of the DC Universe, starting with the Zero Hour timeline and working from the timelines in Secret Files & Origins.

  • Michael Kooiman is only slightly more specific in his focus by offering a Chronology of the Pre-20th Century DC Universe

  • Jim Doty has written A DC Golden Age Timeline, which is just what it says it is, though it only covers the twentieth century.

    • John McDonagh has his own Golden Age Heroes of Earth-1 Timeline, which is explicitly only meant to cover "certain important events" as opposed to serving as a comprehensive timeline.
    • Along similar lines, Michael Norwitz has compiled a basic Earth-2 Timeline, covering the original Earth on which DC's Golden Age stories were set.
  • Michael Norwitz has also compiled or otherwise presented a healthy number of alternate timelines, both historical and thematic, which are rather speculative and liberal in terms of choosing characters and events to include in each world:

    • an Earth-2.5 Timeline, by Rahadyan Sastrowardoyo, featuring the Justice Guild which appeared in the animated Justice League episode "Legends;"
    • an Earth-3 Timeline, featuring evil counterparts of standard DC heroes, particularly the Crime Syndicate;
    • an Earth-4 Timeline, featuring heroes published by Charlton Comics;
    • an Earth-5 Timeline, featuring mundane versions of famous superhero characters;
    • an Earth-12 Timeline, featuring the Inferior 5 and other humourous DC characters;
    • an Earth-17/Dreamworld Timeline, featuring both Overman & the Justice Project of America and Sunshine Superman & the Love Syndicate, as seen in Animal Man #23;
    • an Earth-18 Timeline, featuring Marvelman and Big Ben from Warrior magazine;
    • an Earth-27 Timeline, featuring alternate versions of Animal Man and other heroes, along with Magnus of The Exiles, as seen in Animal Man #27-32;
    • an Earth-42 Timeline, by Anton Psychopoulos, featuring the Air Fighters and other Hillman heroes;
    • an Earth-238 Timeline, featuring Alan Moore's Captain UK and other characters designed as tributes to old British comic heroes;
    • an Earth-399 Timeline, featuring a divergent world on which Superman died and was replaced twice by clones, as seen in Animal Man #27-32;
    • a pair of Earth 412 and Earth C-Minus 4 Timelines, featuring tangents to the world(s) of Charlton Comics;
    • an Earth-597 Timeline, by John McDonagh, featuring a world from Marvel continuity where Hitler won World War II;
    • an Earth-886 Timeline, by John McDonagh, featuring the theatrical incarnations of Marvel heroes as shown in comic book adaptations;
    • an Earth-919 Timeline, featuring alternate-Earth counterparts of DC characters, as published by Marvel;
    • an Earth-1278 Timeline, by Douglas Ethington, featuring the theatrical incarnations of DC heroes as shown in comic book adaptations;
    • an Earth-1958 Timeline, by Lenny Carlson, featuring a world in which one version of the O-Men battles to protect their world against a Skrull invasion;
    • an Earth-1975 Timeline, by Lenny Carlson, with assistance from John McDonagh, featuring the heroes of Atlas/Seaboard Comics;
    • an Earth-1977 Timeline, by John McDonagh, featuring the surreal universe of comic book characters depicted in the Robert Mayer novel Superfolks;
    • an Earth-1983 Timeline, by John McDonagh, featuring a divergent world on which Captain America was revived in 1983;
    • an Earth-A Timeline, by Nathanial Parkson, featuring the Lawless League of America;
    • an Earth-B Chronology, by Douglas Ethington, featuring Silver and Bronze Age stories which contradict Earth-1 continuity;
    • an Earth-C Timeline, featuring Captain Carrot and the Zoo Crew;
    • an Earth-E Timeline, featuring the Super-Sons, and the World's Finest team of the 1950's;
    • an Earth-K Timeline, featuring Michael Chabon's amazing heroes of Kavalier and Clay;
    • an Earth-S Timeline, featuring heroes published by Fawcett Comics;
    • an Earth-T Timeline, by Steve Chung, featuring Captain Thunder and other divergent heroes featured in Fawcett Comics;
    • an Earth-X Timeline, featuring "a noncanonical view" of the Freedom Fighters;
    • an Earth-Français Timeline, by John McDonagh, featuring Tintin and other characters from French comics in the DC multiverse;
    • an Earth-Prime Timeline, also by John McDonagh, featuring various mundane characters inspired by superheroes, as seen in Realworlds and other titles;
    • That Was The Year That Wasn't: An Elseworlds Timeline, by Ivan Schablotski and Michael Norwitz, with assistance by Nathanial Parkson, featuring the various alternate superheroes seen in Elseworlds titles co-existing (rather dubiously) in a single continuity;
    • an Angor Timeline, featuring the metafictional Justifiers/Assemblers, DC homages to Marvel superheroes;
    • The Princess Paragon (and Associates) Timeline, featuring the comic book universes depicted in the Robert Rodi novel What They Did to Princess Paragon;
    • a Rome-World Timeline, by John McDonagh, featuring a world from Marvel continuity where the Roman Empire never fell;
    • a Terra Gamma Timeline, by Lenny Carlson, featuring the superheroes from America's Best Comics, such as Tom Strong; and
    • a Terra Obscura Timeline, featuring the superheroes from Nedor Publications and elsewhere.
  • Ivan Schablotski, mentioned above, has also created an Earth-612 Chronology, dedicated to the world of the Mighty Mystics and the Legion of the Strange, along with other Vertigo-related amalgams and spoofs, which might ultimately be part of the Amalgam Universe.

  • Michael Kooiman definitely tops the list for specific superheroes with The Legion of Super-Heroes Chronology: Pre-Zero Hour and Post-Zero Hour, which are both very extensive.

  • As a tangent to his original Legion work, Michael Kooiman also put together a L.E.G.I.O.N. Chronology.

  • As if that weren't enough, Michael has also put together a Justice League Chronology.

  • On a somewhat related note, he has also compiled the Justice Society Chronology.

  • Sticking to superhero teams, Michael Kooiman presents The Power Company Chronology, by Loki Carbis, with extensive annotations by John Wells.

  • Michael has even put together an Outsiders Chronology

  • The Teen Titans Timeline is reprinted from Titans Secret Files #1.

  • A more specialised look at DC's Golden Age can be found in The Golden Age Batman Chronology, a look at the life of the original Caped Crusader, by Aaron Severson.

  • Various continuity issues surrounding Barbara Gordon's history inspired John Wells to attempt a reconciliation by putting together Batgirl/Oracle: A DCU-Style Timeline.

  • In a similar vein (quite literally, in some respects), Wells also put together Flamebird: A DCU-Style Timeline, profiling the life and heroic career of Bette Kane.

  • Scott McCullar has put together The Unofficial Green Arrow Deluxe Timeline.

  • Proving the he can focus on individual heroes as well, Michael Kooiman presents The Swamp Thing Chronology.

  • The Sandman Chronology, compiled by Mike Harris, is a refreshingly consistent history of the world in Neil Gaiman's series, as Mike notes that there is little need for conjecture. Having said that, it hasn't been updated for some time.

  • Lorcan Nagle has detailed The History of the Monarchy as seen in Doselle Young's series for WildStorm Productions.

  • The Planetary Timeline, created by Mike Caprio with help from Chris Pinard, outlines events within the continuity of Warren Ellis's series of the same name.

  • Kris Naudus proudly presents her Transmetropolitan Timeline, based on another series by Warren Ellis, though I must include a language warning along with this link.

  • Kris has also completed a Cyberella Timeline, based on Howard Chaykin's comic book series.

  • Remember Kris? She decided to make a Giantkiller Chronology as well, based on Dan Brereton's series.

  • The Superman Timeline, compiled by David T. Chappell, is a list of major "Superman Events" that mixes actual dates and age references as one would expect in such a work.

  • The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen Chronology, by Damian Gordon, Michael Norwitz, and Philip Graves, is really a "League of Leagues," profiling various groups of literary heroes and their adventures through the centuries, as detailed in the landmark series by Alan Moore and Kevin O'Neill.

  • The Wildcats Timeline could stand to be somewhat more detailed, given the large amount of WildC.A.T.s/Wildcats material available.

  • The Authority Timeline offers a brief glimpse into the history of the offshoot of Stormwatch featured in WildStorm Comics.

  • The Astro City Timeline, by Martin Wisse, from the series by Kurt Busiek.

  • Fans of comic book series derived from video games will be glad to learn of the Atari Force Timeline by Lee K. Seitz, which includes a discussion of continuity problems in the short-lived series.

  • Craig Klein has put together a V for Vendetta Timeline, from the series by Alan Moore and David Lloyd, as one large graphic, and he is quick to ask that you be patient while it loads.

  • The Watchmen Appendix, compiled by Doug Atkinson, includes a timeline as well as summarising the differences between our world and the world of the Watchmen.

  • Plainly, a significant portion of DC's fanbase - but not all - is fascinated by temporal consistency in comic book serials.  Why would DC alienate this devoted and loyal fanbase in a bid to find a fanbase that doesn't care about continuity?  Aren't the new fans an unknown quantity?  Doesn't reestablishing a serial literary form on the basis of ahistoricism go against the very meaning of what makes a serial publication interesting?  One alternative is more sobering.  Perhaps DC does still care about continuity and it wants newly-won fans to care about continiuty, but only a rewritten DCnU continuity that promotes certain characters and ideas, especially a very blinkered, rigid understanding of DC's legacies system.

    DC turned 75 years old last year. It has a lot of pulp history under its belt.  Yet at the very moment when history should mean so much to DC and its leading creators should honour it (for example, by preserving the numbering of Action Comics (Superman's flagship title) and Detective Comics (Batman's flagship title and DC's namesake)), they seek to overturn that great legacy in a giant marketing ploy.  More precisely, they claim they are returning to a retconned, earlier pocket of DC history.   Bizarrely, the DCnU is a return to, and rejection of, the past.

    Every Day Is Like Wednesday summarizes DC's statements about what they are doing:
    This is an epic and ambitious initiative that ushers in a new generation of comics for DC Comics and will set the tone for storylines and characters for years to come. With all of the titles starting at #1, our creative teams have the ability to take a more modern approach – not only with each character, but with how the characters interact with one another and the universe as a whole, and focus on the earlier part of the careers of each of our iconic characters. A time when they didn’t have as much experience defeating all their nemeses. A time when they weren’t as sure of their abilities. A time when they haven’t saved the world countless times. It’s this period that is rich with creative opportunity as we show why these characters are so amazing, so iconic and so special. ...

    This is a new beginning which builds off the best of the past. For the stories launching as new #1s in September, we have carefully hand-selected the most powerful and pertinent moments in these characters’ lives and stories to remain in the mythology and lore. And then we’ve asked the best creators in the industry to modernize, update and enhance the books with new and exciting tales. The result is that we retained the good stuff, and then make it better.
    Ah, the art of the retcon!  Carefully hand-selecting the best of the past for you.  Oddly, DC is hand-selecting only the parts of continuity that make its characters more vulnerable.  The blogger, J. Caleb Mozzocco, says: "doesn’t making the god-like DC superheroes less sure of their abilities make them seem a little more like the traditional heroes-with-feet-of-clay characters of your rival publisher, Marvel?" Why yes, it does.  There's a causal connection between how one views and treats time and the associated power of moral archetypes.

    I got to thinking about the DCnU and new Millennial values: I've been reading DC Comics on and off for most of my life.  But I know I'm not the target audience for this nightmare.  Maybe it's just me. Maybe I'm out of touch.  I can understand the corporation's perspective.  Out with the old blood, in with the new.  Maybe these changes reveal the rising values of the new Millennium and I just can't get on the bus.

    But maybe it's not just me.  And maybe DC is out of touch.  A lot of people are criticizing the reboot for its haphazard press releases, muddled marketing statements, disdain for the fanbase, evidently poor planning and above all - its chronal dissonance. In the DCnU, 75 years of DCU history is going to be crunched into 5 fictional years.  Every Day Is Like Wednesday jokingly referred the biggest question about the DCnU being whether or not the minor Titans supporting character, Terry Long, will survive. Someone commented: "Yes, but he'll now have a high collar, piping on his clothes, and no underwear."  The post is categorized under the tag: That One Time DC Comics Went Insane.

    Since when does wearing no underwear and rocket boots with piping symbolize a new heroism?  The high collars and buckles in Jim Lee's designs are a retro reference; they reveal that Lee mistakenly thinks that what was au courant in his twenties and thirties is one step ahead of what interests youth now, which it isn't.

    I believe that despite DC's all-or-nothing statements, the DCnU is a set-up for the as-yet unnamed 2012 crossover event. It's the only way I can take any of this seriously or think any of it is going anywhere. If DC's leading creators and editors really intend these retcons to be permanent, fans will hold their breath to see whether September will bring what Mozzocco calls DC's "Viking Funeral." Somehow, despite the uproar and DC's disregard for everything it should stand for, I doubt that.  But where they end up might not be where they expected.  Even in an era when changing the past can bring power, and even though this is just a fictional setting, the past has its own integrity that can't be manipulated or altered.  As a result, history has a way of repeating itself.

    See all my posts on Comics.

    All DC Comics stories, characters and the distinctive likenesses thereof are Trademarks & Copyright © DC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

    If you're not reading this post on Histories of Things to Come, the content has been scraped and republished without the original author's permission. Please let me know by following this link and leaving me a comment. Thank you.

    1 comment:

    1. To my readers: sorry for the broken links in the lists of timelines above. The quotation was a direct cut and paste from another site. I left the links in to preserve the ones that still worked. The quote rather was meant to prove the point that continuity is important to a large portion of DC's readers.


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Just in: Barbour Coats, Boots and Bags

For the first time ever (officially) we have ready-to-wear! Clothing at Hitchcock Madrona?! I know, it is different for us but we couldn’t resist these coats while placing our fall order with Barbour. We were very deliberate and hand-picked just a few styles that we love, are not carried in Seattle, and marry the heritage of the brand with fashion. More will be coming in throughout the season but we have four styles in store now.

Above I am wearing the Falcon Coat in black.  We also have this style in olive. This is a long (just below the knee) wool with cashmere military-inspired coat. The best part is the amazing, high quality leather belt. I love that Barbour didn’t skimp on the weight or details of the belt.

Barbour Rainbow International nylon coat. Barbour International is the motorcycle racing division of Barbour of England.  These jackets were made famous by Steve McQueen in the 1960’s. We have two styles from Barbour International and I love how they are very subtly motorcycle-esque. In fact, most people don’t realize it is influenced by a motorcycle jacket. Which means you won’t feel like someone you are not getting out of your wagon to go to the grocery store!

We have black, red and green Barbour boots in the knee high style and black in the short (mid-calf) style.

Blanket Bag by Barbour.

Barbour is a brand that, in my opinion, is wearable for women of every age. The garments are so well made! The fabrics and details are practical (not just fashion). Especially for the weather in Seattle. They are built to be worn!

Come visit and try them on!

One Comment on “Just in: Barbour Coats, Boots and Bags”

  1. I love everything especially the bags!

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Putting big data to good use | KPMG | SG

Putting big data to good use

Putting big data to good use

The article was published in TODAYonline on 23 November 2015.

Related content

Businesses around the world already know the importance of big data. But not everybody knows what to do with it.

A 2014 survey of 144 major multinational corporations, commissioned by KPMG, found that more than half the respondents had already changed their business strategies to incorporate big data, which are extremely large sets of data that can be mined for useful information.

They were increasing their capacity to collect, store and analyse big data, and training key personnel to use it for decision-making.

Investors are also fans of big data. A 2015 study by Institutional Investor Research found that out of more than 250 investors and sell-side analysts surveyed, 62 per cent were more inclined to invest in a company that uses big data to improve its performance or achieve its strategic objectives.

But while big data is becoming increasingly ubiquitous, many companies appear unsure how to put it to good use.

Almost all the respondents in the KPMG survey felt that they had not fully tapped the benefits of big data. Nearly half said they had trouble integrating data technology into their existing systems and business models. Many were not sure what kind of data they should collect. What they did collect, they were unclear on how to analyse and interpret.

The trouble is many business leaders still tend to think of big data as a tool for achieving specific objectives, such as reducing operating costs or bringing products and services to market faster. But its true value is far more fundamental — and comes from integrating it into business strategies and using it as a core component of operations.

Companies need to incorporate big data into their strategic business thinking. For example, they should ask what information they need to better execute a certain strategy, or to perform better overall. They can then actively focus on gathering and analysing that information.

Big data is exceptionally useful in the retail industry and other sectors where consumers’ preferences are linked to their behaviour.

By using it to identify and understand customers’ demand very quickly, companies can tailor their products and services to more closely match consumer expectations and thus compete more effectively. This may be as simple as providing online shoppers with suggestions for products they may like, or as extensive as developing the capacity to provide a service that business partners may need in the near future.

Big data is fundamentally changing the way in which companies compete. In the future, big data will most likely become the primary basis of companies’ growth. The most innovative companies develop their product and derive growth strategies from the insights they obtain from big data, including social media data.

One European manufacturer of women’s clothing, for example, uses photographic data collected from social networks to identify popular designs and colours in real time. The company then brings these designs to market while they are still popular, managing this in a fraction of the time that department stores would take.

Another unlikely area where companies can use big data is in talent management. US company Cornerstone OnDemand, for example, uses big data to predict, based on a wide range of factors from economic conditions to social media usage, when and why employees are most likely to leave their jobs. Employers then have the opportunity to address the issue before it becomes a problem.

Big data makes information transparent and usable in much larger quantities and at higher speeds. It allows companies to carry out faster, more accurate forecasting and market analysis. Furthermore, it reveals opportunities that companies may otherwise have missed out on.

To get the most out of big data, companies must have not only the right technology in place, but also the right talent. They will need trained analysts who can identify trends that are relevant to the business, or that may affect the business in future. They will also need managers and business executives with the skills to then use this.

Today, big data has already become the foundation of many new and innovative business models. For example, the crowd economy (or crowdfunding sites) has disrupted traditional systems and facilitated the progress of open business models. Crowdfunding is a way for businesses and organisations to raise money in form of donations or investments from multiple individuals online.

In Singapore, homegrown company Crowdonomic is a professionally run reward-based crowdfunding service that helps entrepreneurs address their funding needs. The company helps entrepreneurs open a business idea to a wider audience and get market feedback. It is a sustainable and efficient way to build a business.

As companies step up their efforts to recognise and take advantage of the opportunities inherent in big data, such questions are only the beginning. In the future, companies will be able to create entire new business strategies based on the answers to those questions.

The article is contributed by Mr Lyon Poh, head of Digital + Innovation at KPMG in Singapore. The views expressed are his own.

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Bob Kasinow | KPMG | GLOBAL

Bob Kasinow

America’s Financial Services Center of Excellence

KPMG in the U.S.

Robert (Bob) is a Director in the KPMG Advisory Services practice with more than 24 years of experience as a regulator in the insurance industry plus several years in the private insurance sector. His role as US insurance regulatory lead focuses on national and international insurance regulatory risk. Bob is actively involved in the development of capital standards for insurers including the U.S. Federal Reserve, state regulatory and ComFrame initiatives. Currently he is assisting in coordinating the U.S. regulatory system with other international jurisdictions. He also advises clients on complex statutory accounting issues. Prior to joining KPMG, Bob was an Assistant Commissioner at the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance responsible for solvency regulation of all domestic and licensed insurance entities. He was directly responsible for overseeing large multistate examinations and developing tools to effectively communicate the process to industry stakeholders. His position included oversight of the following units: financial analysis, field audits and examinations, He was a key driver in the implementation of the risk focused analysis and examination approach for multi-state insurers. This was accomplished through participation on the NAIC Financial Examiner Handbook Technical Group and the Financial Analysis Working Group.As an insurance regulator, he was active on several NAIC and IAIS Committees and Working Groups in developing insurance regulatory policy. He continues participation in these organizations.

Areas of expertise

Education and qualifications

  • BS in Accounting, The Moore School of Business, University of South Carolina

  • Certified Financial Examiner (CFE)

  • Associate in Reinsurance (ARe)

  • Market Conduct Management (MCM)

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Lately I thought to myself maybe I’ll get myself some eye-shadow now that I want to “re-vamp” myself.   I got to know about an unusual palette called Too Faced Peanut Butter and Jelly.  I loved this name & idea ( peanut butter being one of my favorite sandwich spreads).

How cool is this Palette and how beautiful the colors !!   Her Majesty Me thought plum and wine colours suit me ( a “Winter” style ) and I like the browns in this palette.  It’s a clever palette too, designed for 3 different looks, using 3 colours – from left to right in a row – for brow bone, eye-lid and the eyelid crease or corner.  Click on the link above for lots of images, including snapshots of the instructions or suggestions for the different looks.

So what does Her Majesty Me do??   Well, an Australian seller had one of these beautiful palettes for sale by bidding (auction) on eBay.  I put in a bid but when the price reached $35 I stopped and thought that is all I would pay for it.  I found to my astonishment that $35 plus would have been a great price to pay for it, especially as that ebay seller offered free postage also, and these palettes are being offered on ebay for $80 AUD or more !!

After this failed transaction (bidding) I got to surfing the internet for more eye colours and I bought myself a Morphe “Fall into Frost” palette !!   Why, you may ask?  I thought at $47 with free postage that for 35 colours it was a good price.   Plus I like the colours.   I researched this palette also and found that people with brown eyes love this palette.  So this brown-eyed girl, HMM, is falling into frost soon with morphe!

This palette is touted to be a must-have collection of warm toned matte and shimmer shades.   It gets a good review at Influenster –  see below.

I was lucky enough to buy one from an eBay seller who had bought one but never used it, but she has the Receipt for this Palette.  Warning this Morphe eyeshadow palette does NOT have a mirror with it.

Color swatches can be seen at the Link below.

Another WARNING:  Be careful when buying from eBay as alot of make-up is counterfeit or a copy !!   Research first what the genuine product should look like in its entirety before you buy from an eBay seller.

The Circle of Life & Auras – Sacred Geometry Again

Well, I’m into my 3rd module of Simone Matthew’s  “Soul Evolution” home study course, and at last I am comfortable with my own personal theory / beliefs about “Dimensions” and the 13 levels.  Here is my explanation, based upon one system or “school” of thought.

First of all, it may help to peruse  THIS   page here, about how consciousness, matter and form, arose from the Singularity.  Just click OK if a box pops up asking for a Password.  Also, if you look at my Post on  “Sacred Geometry“, what I say in this Post will probably make more sense.

In the beginning was the POINT or the Singularity – and then the Axis or the Line – more Lines of Consciousness ( templates for matter form ) emanated to form an Octahedron of light / consciousness ( a shape with 8 regular faces or sides ).

This is the diamond shape or configuration of Light which our Soul ( operating through the Soul Star Chakra or the 10th Chakra / 10th Level of consciousness, and through the 5th Energetic Gateway ) use to project our individual consciousness through the vehicle of the Heart Chakra ( the 6th Chakra and the 4th Energetic Gateway ).

Our Diamond Light Field or our Crystalline Light Body is projected out on each of 7 levels, creating our 7 Chakra system.  Chakras are Energy Centres which are designed to channel ( or funnel ) information and energies or frequencies of particular qualities into physical forms and creations from Source.

When we project the Octahedron, we create a “3rd level of consciousness” dimensional body, connecting us to the 2nd dimension of plants and other animals, and connecting us to the crystalline field of the Earth, the 1st dimension of consciousness – via the Earth Gateway, the 1st Chakra – the core of the Earth.

From the core of our octahedral body or field of light, we also emanate or project a system of subtle energy bodies or layers ( electromagnetic fields / layers ) collectively called the AURA ( and individually called the Auric Bodies or Auric Layers ).  There are 7 Auric layers / layers of the Aura / Auric Bodies related to, or associated with the 7 primary Chakras of human beings.

All in all, we human beings are HOLOGRAMS ( i.e projections of Light ) and FRACTALS ( complete whole systems within the same but larger systems on an infinite scale ).

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The Energies of 2015 – Souls awaken

I am Spirit-filled, Spirit Guided, and as a Human Being I am confident, courageous, wise, and individual yet communal.

Rebecca Brown of Soul to Soul has an interesting article  HERE  about 2015.

If you are interested in the Chinese New Year, the Year of the Goat, starting 19 Feb. 2015 , click  HERE.

Elizabeth Peru also talks about a major energetic shift in January 2015, that may be causing us to feel refreshed and alert one day, but drained the next day – as we are all being upgraded mentally, physically, and spiritually.

You can read more tips on her Facebook page, and if you like, subscribe to her Tip-Off Reports.

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New Page – “Energy Alerts”

I have just added a Page “Energy Alerts” with links to websites which may help to navigate the energies.  Consciousness on Earth is evolving – stay focused on the positive and good things world-wide & locally, while doing what you can to help transform the “negative” to the Light.  I have learned the following.

Read what resonates with you.

Love yourself un-conditionally.

Ask the Angels / Jesus / God for help when you want / need it

Do to others as you would have them do Unto you

Christ-mas is For-Giving

I was brought up Catholic, thus theoretically I am Christian.  Good memories about my Catholic past are things like getting a permission slip from my parents to walk (with a chaperone) down the road from Primary school, to buy fish and chips for lunch; free milk but only up until 1973 ( the year I turned 10 ); the magnificent “Tuck Shop” or School Canteen, where I ALWAYS bought a glorious freshly made peanut-butter roll for morning tea (and my twin sister ALWAYS bought a freshly made vegemite roll) – and occasionally we had the cash to splash out on a delightful Match-stick pastry; the on-site ice-cream kiosk ( where we bought Orange Maids but if we couldn’t afford them, we bought a Ducky Double to share; and we even got to serve cold delights once we were in Grade 7 – although my sister & I were too small to reach into the chest freezer when it was nearly empty to get the icy poles & ice-creams at the bottom ); AND most of all, being able to ring the grand old BELL to ring in the school-children after lunch or recess – a privilege granted to a final ( Grade 7 ) student by one of the Sisters!

Well, to me Christmas is about acknowledging a historical person called Jesus and how self-less he was, and reminding myself that I do have choices or options about how I see things and about what I do.  I also traditionally love Christmas for giving presents or gifts to people.  I am the sort of person who gives people things out of the blue to show my true appreciation or friendship with them.  Christmas when I was a child was a magnificent, happy affair, with going to a church service, and then un-wrapping tons of presents and joining in a delicious and beautiful dinner with family & friends.

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White Feathers & Angels

I don’t know about anyone else, but I believe that there is alot more to us than our skin and bones, our brains, and our bodies.  I am in the “camp” that thinks that we also have a subtle energy body around us ( sometimes called “the aura” ) and that what is more we each have a “Higher Self”.

In my opinion, honestly, the “Higher Self” is a high awareness or consciousness, and by “high” I mean it is not even actually in the brain, but it is instead located in an energy field above the physical body but is connected by a stream of light to the physical body.  This “Higher Self” itself is connected to the spark of the divine that imbued itself within physical form.  There are many opinions and beliefs about the “Higher Self” and about the Monad and Souls and so forth, and how they all connect to groups and so forth, but in a nut-shell, I say that Her Majesty Me is a spiritual being in human form.

This spiritual being has a mental and feeling and physical component within the visible tangible structure of the body, but also has a higher awareness in the “Higher Self” and this connection is sometime experienced whether she knows it or not.  When you are relaxed and in flow, the voice of the “Higher Self” is a subtle knowing or even a word or a phrase that pops up in your “mind”, or it is a compulsion or a “feeling” that you should do something that will help you in a positive way.

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Sacred Geometry

3D Flower_of_Life

Sacred Geometry is the organizational basis of all that exists,

has existed and will exist.

In the beginning was —– the Big SHINE when a singularity of light, sound and radiation, a point of all potential – emanated particles, which were the templates of atoms, into the first circle which was spun on ita axis to create the first sphere.

The first action was when two spheres (circles) were created or formed in an overlapping configuration, creating a shared intersection, the Vesica Pisces. More spheres were added and the sixth action (called the Sixth Day of creation) resulted in a total of seven spheres, a pattern known in 2D as the –

Seed of Life.”

Seed of Life

The “Egg of Life” is the three dimensional Seed of Life from which a Star Tetrahedron or two Tetrahedrons of 3 spheres around a central sphere, all within a sphere, are formed.

This structure forms the basis for music, as the distances between the spheres is identical to the distances between the tones and the half tones in music. It is also identical to the cellular structure of the third embryonic division (The first cell divides into two cells, then to four cells then to eight). Thus this same structure as it is further developed, creates the human body and all of the energy systems including the ones used to create the Merkaba. If we continue creating more and more spheres we will end up with the structure called the Flower of Life.

The “Flower of Life” can be found in all major religions of the world. It contains the patterns of creation as they emerged from the “Great Void”. Everything is made from the Creator’s thought.

The Flower of Life is the modern name given to a geometrical figure composed of multiple evenly-spaced, overlapping circles. They are arranged to form a flower-like pattern with a sixfold symmetry.  The most common form of the “Flower of Life” is hexagonal pattern (where the center of each circle is on the circumference of six surrounding circles of the same diameter), made up of 19 complete circles and 36 partial circular arcs, enclosed by a large circle.

NB: Hexagonal means having six sides and six angles. The Merkaba is a living being’s Light Body vehicle, and is the divine light vehicle or field that helps us move from one dimension or level to another. The word Merkaba can be broken down into MER: rotating fields of light, KA: spirit, and BA: soul.  Therefore, Mer-Ka-Ba means the spirit or energy body of counter-rotating fields of light, or spirals of energy (as with a strand of DNA), which transport spirit or consciousness from one dimension to another.

The Seed of Life and the 6 spheres adjacent to the Seed of Life – shown here in 2-D   i.e.  giving 6 + 7 or 13 spheres – are known as the Fruit of Life.

Fruit of Life

The Fruit of Life is the blue-print of the Universe. it contains or is the template for every atom, molecular structure, life form and eventually everything in existence. All things existing are formed ultimately from the 7 fold structure of the Seed of Life.

The Fruit of Life contains 13 informational systems. Each one “explains” or is responsible for a particular aspect of reality. These systems are able to give us access to everything ranging from the human body to the galaxies. In the first system, for example, it’s possible to create any molecular structure and any living cellular structure that exists in the universe.

The usual or traditional Flower of Life motif / pattern is made up of 6 + 1 + 6 + 6 spheres, so the Seed of Life ( 6 + 1 ) plus 6 spheres, each one overlapping or connecting one of the 6 spheres around or adjacent (i.e. touching) the centre sphere, plus there are 6 spheres, each one actually intersecting with the centre sphere.

Draw a line from any centre of the Fruit of Life to all other centres to get Metatron’s Cube, a Sacred Geometrical shape and symbol that forms a map of Creation. The word Metatron comes from the Greek “Meta” plus “Tron” meaning Beyond + Matrix.

Metatron’s Cube represents the gridwork of our consciousness and the building blocks of the Cosmos. It is the matrix in which everything is contained in our 3-dimensional reality.

Source energy, through the energy field of Metatron’s Cube, creates the potential field of creation – a field of high vibrational frequencies that ripple out through creation eventually creating colour, then sound and finally at their lower levels of vibration –  physical matter. Metatron’s Cube contains every shape that exists. If you want to have a go at drawing Metatron’s Cube, try THIS website.

The five Platonic Solids derive from Metatron’s Cube, as the website below demonstrates. The Platonic Solids, named for the great Greek philosopher Plato, are the tetrahedron, the cube (or hexahdedron), the octahedron, the dodecahedron and the icosahedron. Each Platonic Solid is a polyhedron, which is a 3-dimensional shape with flat faces. The faces are congruent (same size and shape), regular polygons (plane shapes with straight lines) with the same number of faces meeting at each vertex (corner).

The Greek Plato, in his Timaeus c. 350 B.C.E., equated the five Solids with the five Elements: the Cube with Earth, the Icosahedron with Water, the Tetrahedron with the Fire, the Octahedron with Air, and the Dodecahedron with the stuff of which the constellations and heavens were made, Ether (etheric). The website below shows nice pictures of the Platonic Solids and how they equate to the Chakras ( energy centres ) and to the natural elements.

The Platonic solids are ideal, primal models of crystal patterns that occur throughout the world of minerals in countless variations. The shapes that form the five original Platonic Solids occur naturally in nature, including in the crystal world. Working with them individually is said to help with our connection to nature and the higher realms of the cosmos; to find the common pattern which links us all at a molecular as well as at a spiritual level.

You can search the internet for a set of Platonic Solids to purchase, if you want your own 3D set either in clear crystal or coloured gemstones, according to your choice. There is also an abundance of “Sacred Geometry” jewelry available, which may appeal to you.

The planet Earth is currently undergoing a shift to a higher frequency and all sentient beings who reside within her energy field will also experience this realignment to the creation of the Crystal Lightbody. The Crystal Lightbody is gradually created through the transmutation of our current physical body as it mutates or transforms and absorbs more Light. The Merkaba ( Light Body ) evolves into a field of more light – into a field of pure light. For detailed information see  THIS  website here.

This does not mean that we will be glowing or will be wisps or will disappear altogether. Since 2012 the Angelics and Divine (or the Light Beings) have been assisting humanity to evolve past duality, and human beings will live together peacefully and happily with all other Life and with our environment. The indications are that by the year 2032 we will be well on the road to achieving this, if not already completely there. See  Diana Cooper’s  website and  Simone Matthew’s  website for more information.

 Mitakuye Oyasin – all are related

What you focus on GROWS

Let’s focus on the template for a wonderful and balanced, peaceful, happy world for all.

( I see the Divine in You )

Annoying people on the Train or Bus

Every work day I plod along to the train station and get on the train to the CBD.  I always get a seat because I get on at the start of the line, hooray, however when I return home from the CBD the train is packed.  Usually I do get a seat because I squirm my way on.  What annoys me the most is someone tapping his foot on the floor, which sets up a vibration, and well, is just – annoying to me.  The other thing that really annoys me no end is people placing their bags ( mostly women with handbags ) on the seat next to them, even in peak hours, so someone has to ask them to move their bag so that someone can sit down.

Go in the Poll to choose up to 3 highly annoying things you experience on the trains or the buses.  I have excluded “rabble rousers” or the general activity of rowdy or drunk or boisterous or downright nasty passengers on the public transport system, as in my opinion, such would annoy anyone.  Also, I excluded the obvious experience of the train being late or breaking down, as the Poll covers annoying things done by individual passengers on the train / bus.

One day on the packed train I was on, just before Easter, a dapper sort of man was about to get on but another man, a burly type also wanted to get on. There wasn’t enough room on the train for both of them, so the burly type tried to barge his way ahead of the other, whom was rightfully first to get on the already packed train.  Anyhow a fight ensued with women screaming and me thinking OMG I hope they don’t squash me, as I was standing close by the doors.  The scuffle spilled out onto the platform and to everyone’s astonishment, the “dapper” sort of man then grabbed the other guy by the shirt and whipped out a badge, holding it up for all to see.  He grinned or grimaced and said “you aren’t going anywhere Sunshine”.  He was a police officer, but in plain clothes!

So, join in this anonymous Poll if there is something which really “gets your goat” so to speak, on the train and / or bus and let’s see what is the most annoying !!

Where in the Clouds is my @ !? &* Ipod Song ?? How to use iTunes.

So, I like writing, and lately I have been busy working out how the heck to use iTunes, even though I have owned an iPod Touch for years upon end, and just this year I acquired an iPad. At least for some of us, it can be very bewildering and a “mine-field” trying to plough through the iTunes Programme / software, and work out how to use it. I know that even people higher than me, meaning people at my work who earn twice or thrice as much as me because they are Managers or Directors, scratch their heads, wondering how to use iTunes.

Therefore, as a result of my research and writing, I have actually written a 15 page instruction on “How to use iTunes,” at least, it is a manual for the 50s and over, such as me! It is an easy reference for Her Majesty Me to use from now on.

I like to organise and collate and document what I know, hence the “birth” of this iTunes instructional manual, complete with a Table of Contents and hypertext links to key information.

I have converted the document to a PDF which you are free to download or save to your computer and use Adobe Acrobat Reader to read. If you don’t have AAR already, it is free, and can be saved to your computer from the Adobe website.

Then you can run or open the Acrobat Reader and open the manual, or just double click on the manual title once you have saved it to your PC.

If this effort can help just one person work out “what is what” regarding how to use iTunes to get music onto their iPod, Her Majesty Me would be VERY pleased!  Click on the link below to save the Manual to your computer.

Using iTunes by Her Majesty Me – August 2014

Squisahble Squirt & Baby in an Egg

A long time ago I acquired Squishable Squirt as in the turtle Squirt from Finding Nemo.  I love him, he is the best, most of all because he has a hard shell and I can tuck his little head and flippers into his shell.  One day I was demonstrating un-tucking him from his shell, and to my surprise, I pulled his little body right through and out of his shell altogether.

I wanted to get another Squishable Squirt for a friend, so this week I did a Google search under all sorts of terms like “squirt turtle with hard shell” and “squirt turtle tuck into shell” to no avail.  Her Majesty Me was not pleased.

Then, success!  I have my Squirt at work (along with a toy Racoon, a Squirrel, a bean bag leopard and a small duck – the sort that comes with the chick in the egg that pops out ).  I grabbed my squishy Squirt and turned him upside down to read on his shell underside something like “Disney Hasbro 2002”. At first I gave a gasp because it seemed like only 11 days ago that I had first watched “Finding Nemo” NOT eleven years ago ( when it came out in 2003 ).

So, of course, I went onto eBay & typed in “SQUIRT DISNEY HASBRO 2002”.  Lo and behold, a Squishy Squirt popped up, in Canada.  So with great delight I bid on this rare and fun gorgeous Squirt and got it for just $10.

Squishy SquirtThis little Squirt is officially called a “Shell Squishin Squirt” or a “Shell Squish In Squirt”.  At the moment of posting this, there are some of these available on  AMAZON.

I must confess that I also looked at the seller’s other items & found an Anne Geddes baby in a white bunny suit, in a chocolate egg.  I fell in love with this, and bought that also!  It is 6 inches or so in height with baby sitting in the egg, and the baby itself comes out and stand-alone she is about 7 inches.  Cute.

Anne Geddes Baby Bunny in EggBaby_in_Egg1 (11)I have seen Anne Geddes cute babies on cards and calendars and what-not, but never really wanted any AG baby paraphernalia – until now.  I am spoiling myself with getting this one.  It is my birthday next month after all.

The bunny in an egg doll cost $15, and I paid for the 2 to be posted to me together from Canada to Australia by surface mail.  It will take 4 to 6 weeks for them to arrive, but that is fine by me, as postage was $10 USD only.

Baby_in_Egg1 (5)   Baby_in_Egg1 (6)


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Travelodge by Wyndham Commerce Los Angeles Area

Self Rated: 2.0 out of 5
7810 Telegraph Rd, Commerce, CA, 90040, United States of America

Price Beat Guarantee*

Find a lower comparable hotel price online and we'll beat it by 10%. Find out more.

*Conditions Apply

Property Details

Property Location

When you stay at Travelodge by Wyndham Commerce Los Angeles Area in Commerce, you'll be near the airport and close to Citadel Outlets. This motel is within the vicinity of Whittier College and Rio Hondo College.

Make yourself at home in one of the 110 air-conditioned rooms featuring refrigerators and microwaves. Complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected, and cable programming is available for your entertainment. Bathrooms with shower/tub combinations are provided. Conveniences include coffee/tea makers, housekeeping is provided daily, and cribs/infant beds can be requested.

Don't miss out on the many recreational opportunities, including an outdoor pool, a spa tub, and a fitness center.

A complimentary continental breakfast is served daily from 6 AM to 9 AM.

Business, Other Amenities

Featured amenities include a business center, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.

Check-in time starts at 3pm. Check-out time is 11am.
Property Policies

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy. Government-issued photo identification and a credit card or cash deposit are required at check-in for incidental charges. Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges. Special requests cannot be guaranteed. There is no after-hours reception at this property. Guests arriving late won't be able to check in until the next morning.

Important Information

Please note, there is important information about this property to know before you arrive.

Know Before You Go

  • Pool access available from 10 AM to 10 PM.

The following fees and deposits are charged by the property at time of service, check-in, or check-out.

  • An early check-in fee will be charged

The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.

  • -Free WiFi
  • -Fitness facilities
  • -Laundry facilities
  • -Free breakfast
  • -Business center
  • -Free self parking
  • -Free RV, bus, truck parking
  • -24-hour front desk
  • -Outdoor pool


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Harbor Steps at 1221 1st Avenue, Seattle, WA 98101 | HotPads

1 bed

2 beds

Harbor Steps
1221 1st Avenue
Seattle, WA 98101

Apartment building

  • Updated 21 hours ago
  • Cats and Dogs Allowed
  • Laundry: In Unit
  • Gym: On-site
  • Pool: On-site
  • Controlled Access
Available floor plans
AllStudio1 Bed2 Beds
Available 6/15/2018
Contact now
Studio1 bath502 sqft
Check availability
Studio1 bath461 sqft
Check availability
Studio1 bath500 sqft
Available 5/24/2018
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Studio1 bath656 sqft
Located within walking distance of theaters, museums, shopping, dining, Pike Place Market, and ferries. Located on the corner of First and everything, Harbor Steps Apartments offers a downtown living experience like no other. Fine art galleries, restaurants, shopping and nightlife are all at your doorstep. Our homes include energy-efficient appliances, upgraded cabinetry and hard surface flooring. Residents will enjoy the 24-hour concierge service, 3 fitness centers with a basketball/ volleyball court, an indoor pool, 3 whirlpool spas and much more. The Seattle Art Museum is right across the street and Pike Place Market is only two blocks away. Seattle University, Qwest Field, I-5, and Safeco Field are also nearby.
Property amenities
  • Basketball Court
  • Business Center
  • Cats Allowed
  • Concierge
  • Dogs Allowed
  • Dryer
  • Fitness Center
  • High-speed Internet Ready
  • Large Dogs Allowed
  • Laundry: In Unit
  • Package Service
  • Patio Balcony
  • Recreation Room
  • Sauna
  • Security: Controlled Access
  • Small Dogs Allowed
  • Spa
  • Storage Space
  • Swimming Pool
  • Transportation
  • Washer
  • Year Built: 1998
Unit amenities
  • Large Closets
  • View
    Flexible terms

    Up to 3 Dogs welcome with $50.00 rent. 0
    Up to 3 Cats welcome with $50.00 rent. 0
    Contact times
    Sunday: 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
    Monday: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
    Tuesday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
    Wednesday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
    Thursday: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
    Friday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
    Saturday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
    Nearby schools
    Students who live in this rental at Harbor Steps attend the following Seattle Public Schools (Unified School District) public schools:
    out of 10
    Lowell Elementary School
    Grades PK - 5
    1.6 miles
    out of 10
    Mcclure Middle School
    Grades 6 - 8
    2.3 miles
    out of 10
    Garfield High School
    Grades 9 - 12
    1.7 miles
    Showing 3 of 3 schools.
    Disclaimer: Historically, GreatSchools ratings have been based solely on a comparison of standardized test results for all schools in a given state. As of September 2017, the GreatSchools ratings also incorporate additional information, when available, such as college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. GreatSchools ratings are designed to be a starting point to help parents compare schools, and they should not be the only factor used in selecting the right school for your family. Learn more.
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imageWhat’s Hot

In Issue 12

What’s hot around town, what to do, where to go and the hottest toys and gifts!

The 32nd anniversary of Pride South Florida’s Pridefest takes place this weekend, Saturday, March 21st and Sunday, March 22nd at Holiday Park/War Memorial Auditorium. For more information check out their schedule and ads on pages 16 through 19.

Thursday, March 19

Broward House, Broward County’s oldest and largest HIV/AIDS service organization will rededicate it’s Client Service Center located at 2800 N. Andrews Ave. in Wilton Manors at 4 pm after extensive remodeling and improvements to the facility. Being recognized with plaques at this dedication will be Broward County Commissioners Ilene Lieberman, Kristin Jacobs, Stacy Ritter, Ken Keechl, Lois Wexler, Sue Gunzburger, John Rodstrom, Diana Wasserman-Rubin and Josephus Eggelletion, plus the Wilton Manors mayor and commission including Gary Resnick, Tom Green, Justin Flippen, Ted Galatis and Scott Newton. The reception, hosted by Pinnacle Constructors, will honor the David Gendal Family Foundation and Broward County for their financial contributions which enabled the remodeling to be done.

Lina Marie and her team invites you to the grand opening of Temptation Thursdays at Krystal Kendall. The night will be themed Fantasy Carnaval and stars DJ George Ferrero, Vegas Dion, Maite West, TP Lords and guests. Doors open at 9 pm with no cover before 11 pm and only $5 thereafter.

Starting today through the 25th Pride Factory features a pride sale with $10 off you purchase of $50 or more and $20 off your purchase of $100 or more.

Friday, March 20

The Boardwalk presents super video star Zeb Atlas tonight through Sunday with two shows each night for your enjoyment!
Liquid Fridays at the Living Room presents the official opening event for Pridefest 2009.

The Depot premieres WOOF Fridays with DJ Sol (Woofest and Bear Voyage) spinning from 6 pm until 10 pm.

Noche Latina Fridays at Sea Monster invites you to celebrate Latin Pride on Pridefest Weekend. The night will be hosted and feature performances by Louis of CircleJerkBoys.com. In addition the night will star Erika Norell with special guests Gloria Klein and Monica Moore, Hot Go-Go papis and DJ Juan Carlos spinning your Latin favorites all night long.

Saturday, March 21

The official Pride after party tonight is at Sidelines starting at 9 pm. If you stop by their booth at Pridefest you will get a free drink chip for the after party as well as other goodies.

Bill’s presents international recording artist AMUKA performing her hits “Miss You,” “Appreciate Me,” “I want More,” “My Man” and more. Showtime is at midnight and there is no cover!

Starting tonight the Stable presents late-nite pig pile with Dan from 1 am to 3 am.

BigMuscle.com and BigMuscleLeather.com present SIN, a pride party at Jackhammer starring DJ Larry Monteleone, with no cover all night long!

The Depot invites you to celebrate with them as they celebrate their 1 year anniversary.

Sunday, March 22

Jackhammer presents iconic DJ Robbie Leslie for their Pride dance, which opens at 6 pm and goes to 2 am with no cover.
Voodoo Lounge, Wendy Tacione and Gary Santis present “Where The Boys Are,” a spectacular gay pride celebration, starting at 7 pm and starring DJ’s Tony Moran and Jarell. The night features no cover before 8:30 pm.

Noche Latina Sunday T at Club 11 invites you to an after Pridefest Latin party where the first 100 people will receive a free Latin Pride CD compiled by DJ Roque.

Monday, March 23

Bill’s presents RuPaul’s Drag Race finale hosted by contestant and top 3 finalist Rebecca Glasscock.

Tuesday, March 24

Planeta Macho at Score, in association with Granda Entertainment and White Lion/Universal Music Latin Entertainment, presents the WMC Latin Showcase introducing Jeri Sandoval direct from Baranquilla, Columbia. The night will also star DJ George Ferrero on the main floor and DJ Ruben and Ricardito La la la and his hot dancers on the 2nd floor.

Wednesday, March 25

Rock Hard presents its grand opening event from 6 to 10 pm which will be a benefit for Tuesday’s Angels. They will be donating 20% of the sales from the evening as well as raising funds from a raffle. The event is sponsored by the Naked Grape Wine Bar, Swiss Navy Products and Wet.

Nine DJ’s and dance music fans will come together once again for Keep On Dancin’, a series of fundraising events to remember Mel Cheren. Mel was the financial backer of the legendary Paradise Garage nightclub. Mel later became known affectionately as “The Godfather of Disco” for his championing of DJs, dance music and club culture from the early days of the disco movement. The music pioneer and activist died December 7, 2007 from complications of HIV/AIDS. DJ’s Jellybean Benitez, Erv, Quentin Harris, Hex Hector, Jovonn, Danny Krivit, Eric Kupper, John Mateo and Victor Rosado will all hit the decks at Keep On Dancin’ Miami to pay tribute to Cheren with dance music from and inspired by the Paradise Garage. Performer Dawn Tallman will also take the stage for a special tribute performance. This will take place from 9 pm to 5 am at SCORE (727 Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach). Tickets are $15 in advance and are available at KeepOnDancin09.com or $20 at the door. Special $10 tickets will be available at the door with a Winter Music Conference badge or Paradise Garage ID.

Anthony DiCocco (Las Vegas); Rick (HOR-waiian) Ruttan; Robert Eldridge; Mark Cole; John (Sonja); Todd (Virginia Ham); Cliff (Chiffon) Flowers; Michael (Bo’s Barber Shop); Marciel Castro; Patrick C.; Joseph Dang; and Mike Vonder Meulen. Our very best wishes to all of you, and to those we may have missed – Happy Birthday!

Russ Johanson and Chris Burdekin (Jackhammer) celebrate 17 years together on March 26th. Our very best wishes to you both!

Hot Stuff

Palm Beach Life Extension is a fully licensed medical clinic that has been successfully treating people with bio-identical hormone replacement therapy for 6 years. Their goal is to return your body’s testosterone and growth hormone levels to the more youthful levels that were found in your early twenties. It’s estimated that as many as one in three men over the age of 30 may suffer from low testosterone (low T). Symptoms of low T include fatigue and lack of energy, little to no sex drive, depression, erectile dysfunction, increasing abdominal fat, weakness, sagging muscles, memory problems and mental “fog.” Fortunately, all these symptoms are treatable and even reversible with hormone replacement therapy (HRT). All it takes is a simple blood test to pinpoint the deficiency. Palm Beach Life Extension will arrange for a blood test at a location near you at no additional cost. The fact is having low testosterone has been linked to several health conditions and risk factors that increase the chances of developing heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. Plus, according to a recent study in Germany, men with low T had a more than 2.5 times greater risk of dying in the next 10 years compared to men with higher testosterone. As for Human Growth Hormone (hGH), have you ever wondered why so many Hollywood stars never seem to look any older while at the same time increase their muscularity? Users claim it practically reverses the aging process, has a dramatic effect on body fat, removes wrinkles, lowers cholesterol, improves sleep, vision, energy and much more. Palm Beach Life Extension has found a way to make hGH more affordable than ever before and even offer payment plans. No other clinic offers the kind of personal individualized service that Palm Beach Life Extension does. Visit their website at PBLifeX.com or call them at 800-617-1131 ext. 3202 and find out today whether or not you’re a candidate for hormone replacement therapy.

Anthony Niedwiecki, a longtime and dedicated LGBT rights advocate, has won his election in Oakland Park, part of the Greater Fort Lauderdale area. As the top vote getter in the race Anthony will become Vice Mayor in 2010 and Mayor in 2011.

Only 3 weeks left to purchase your chance to win $1,000 to help pay your mortgage or rent. Tickets are just $2.00. Drawing will be April 6 at 10 pm at Scandals Saloon. Winner need not be present to win!

Congratulations to the Stable, who won the 2009 Best Theme Night Sleazy Award for Underwear Tuesdays. We would also like to congratulate all the other winners of this year’s Sleazy’s. In addition, we would like to congratulate Guido for another fabulous event (or should we say events as it encompassed 3 events this year?). Take a look at the pictures on pages 58 and 59.

Congratulations go out to Orlando’s own Leigh Shannon, who won the title of Miss Metropolitan Continental Elite last week at Revolution Nightclub. Leigh can be seen every Wednesday at Studio 54 at the Parliament House or at her store Ritzy Rags.

Revolution Nightclub will present a very special fundraiser for Leigh, starring the Leigh Shannon’s Illusions In Revue Show, on Thursday, April 2nd in the Majestic Theater. The show, which starts at 9 pm, will star the characters of Bette Midler, Reba, Cher, Madonna, Donna Summer and more. All funds and donations will help Leigh go to Chicago and bring the crown home to Florida.

This is Hot

After searching for nearly a year before casting for the fourth installment in her award-winning Laughing Matters series, director Andrea Meyerson has put together an outstanding cast of the new up and coming comics on the LGBT comedy circuit. Shot in her winning formula that interweaves stand-up material with candid interviews, viewers are given the opportunity to at once laugh and simultaneously meet the person behind the comedy. Featuring Edison Apple, Gloria Bigelow, Ryan Hill, Daniel Leary, Bridget McManus and Amy Tee, all delivering performances so hilarious you will soon forget they’re the new kids on the block. This DVD was released this past week and is 72 minutes of fun for only $19.95 at Amazon.com or can be rented on Netflix.com.

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