Heritage from a technological perspective

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Heritage from a technological perspective

rat[LAB]interiors fuses heritage references and patterns of the pink city with computational design and digital fabrication, turning the interiors of Farzi Caf, Jaipur into a feast for the senses
The restaurant interior is conceived to capture the essence of the city in a typically farzi (suppositional) way. Referencing local traditional motifs and translating them parametrically through geometry and patterns to showcase identifiable arches, domes and vaults, which are conventionally seen as reminiscent features of the region, architects Sushant Verma and Anchal Chaudhary, principals of rat[LAB]interiors, infuse the scenography with a unique flavour that of an algorithmic design being executed by local craftsmen; thereby proposing a new ideology digital craft!

With emphasis on symmetry, proportion and mathematics, a parametrically triangulated radial pattern is replicated as subdivisions in the vaults and domes in the false ceiling; differentiated triangles with filleted corners are scaled to form the surface treatment of hybrid vaults and domes exemplifying a stunning blend of local craftsmanship and laser-cut geometries. 2mm thick and 50mm wide profile in polished brass encapsulates the restaurant walls and columns, whilst a blend of colours, forms and soft materiality (like velvet fabric and paneling) fosters the rich legacy of the land.

The design team uses computational design methods to algorithmically create patterns that are articulated as 3D relief art through CNC milling, 2D back-lit cut-outs in faade and interiors as well as perforated jaali elements surrounding the outdoor space.

Besides, the complete restaurant is designed at an existing restaurant site and mandated retention of 80 percent of the services such as HVAC ducts, bar plumbing and kitchen services etc. Further, a low ceiling height with large structural members constituted a major constraint, which is overcome by using the meagre available height margin (6 inch only) to create a complex groin vault system that adds visual depth due to the triangulation pattern of the sub divisions, enlightens Sushant.

Efficient spatial planning results in culling out different zones - bar, lounge and fine dine and al fresco areas, whilst the performance stage is tucked towards the end of the L- shaped restaurant for better acoustics and privacy of the guests seated at the bar. Meticulous attention to detail is evident in the signature style and installation elements seen in the vault systems, tessellated dome, jaali patterns, chandelier elements or the branding artwork.

The interiors boast of hanging crystal and bronze-finished parametric drop elements with dimmable LED lights above the bar; Italian marble and wooden flooring that subtly demarcate different areas; plush sofas in the lounge area; fuchsia pink popping through cut-outs in the ceiling; a zesty lemon set of tall chairs; sunflower yellow signature signage and golden railings welcoming customers aptly reflecting the regions vibrant ethos allowing a guest a dollop of this veritable potpourri of experiences. check out the visuals and parametric representations on indiaartndesign.com

Help me sleep

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Help me sleep

Do you know that prevention is better than cure? In fact, if you prevent insomnia from happening on you, you can lead a better life! Today in this article, I will provide you some tips and tricks that can help you sleep in no time! (I used these methods to help me sleep before, so have no worries about them as they are a proven and effective method for preventing insomnia.)

Here are the tips and tricks that I used to help me sleep:

method #1: Avoid coffee and other sources of caffeine
Do you know why we need to avoid coffee? This is because of the stimulating effect of caffeine which can last for many hours and interfere with your ability to fall asleep at night. Hence, you MUST avoid all sources of caffeine so that you can fall asleep more easily at night. There are many other sources of caffeine other than coffee, examples of foods that contain caffeine are, tea, soft drinks, some brands of aspirin and chocolate.

method #2: Limit your alcohol intake
Limiting your alcohol intake is an important factor in helping you sleep better. This is due to the alcohols ability to disrupt brain electrical activity and undermine normal sleep architecture by suppressing the rapid eye movement stage of sleep.

method #3: Avoid or limit your naps
Try to avoid taking long naps in the afternoon. If you really want to refresh yourself, take a nap between 30 minutes 1 hour. Do NOT sleep too much because napping can disrupt your natural sleep cycle and prevent you from feeling tired enough to fall asleep when you really want it, which is at night.

method #4: Dont force yourself to sleep if you are really not tired at all
This is the common mistake made by insomniacs. Do you know why I asked you not to force yourself to sleep if you are really not tired at all? It is because if you are not tired, you will set yourself up for tossing and turning in your bed, which is not what you wanted. Heres a tip: If you are awake after twenty minutes or so, get out of your bed and do something quiet and non-stimulating. After you start to feel tired, return back to your bed and try to sleep again.

method #5: Review your medications
Not all medications provided by your doctors are good for your sleep! There are some over-the-counter drugs which contain stimulants such as caffeine or pseudoephedrine that can prevent you from getting a good sleep! Hence, try to review your medications with your doctor before you take them before you sleep.

The above tips written are the proven techniques that I used to help me sleep. I hope that these tips and tricks to prevent insomnia can also help you sleep better. However, if your sleep problems persist, I would recommend that you seek a doctor because you might have a treatable underlying illness thats interfering with your sleep such as obstructive sleep apnea or depression.

Hartford CT Historic Houses Samuel Colt Home, Armsmear

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Hartford CT Historic Houses Samuel Colt Home, Armsmear

Home of Samuel Colt the inventor and manufacturer of the Colt firearms, Armsmear means "Meadow of arms" and lies at the center of Hartford, Connecticut's Colt Historic District. Also known as the Samuel Colt Home, it was built for his 1857 marriage to Elizabeth Hart Jarvis on a rise of land overlooking the newly created Colt Armory. It was built in an Italian Villa Style, with a low pitched roof, heavy bracketed cornices, arched doors and windows with a distinctive five story Italian tower and Turkish domes.

The Colt Armory is the site where Samuel Colt patented the first revolver in 1835. The ability to get off six shots from a handgun at a time when most pistols were single shot was a major escalation in an individual's personal firepower. The Colt 45 revolver that could fire the same caliber bullets as a rifle was a major game changer in the American West - and saved many frontiersmen's lives only having to carry bullets of a single caliber when they were needed.

Colt's new firearm had become quite popular by the time of the Mexican American War in 1846 when the army ordered a thousand revolvers and his business grew rapidly. He became a major early innovator in efficient factory automation, as well as in social engineering building a factory community that offered employee housing in the "Swiss Cottages" still standing today in what unofficially came to be known as "Coltsville" which his mansion overlooks.

Coltsville remains one of Hartford, Connecticut's boldest real estate ventures of all time and left an enduring mark on Connecticut's State Capital. Samuel Colt first conceived of the idea for a model manufacturing community in 1851 while representing American industrialists at the Crystal Palace Exhibition in London where British "Factory towns" were being promoted. Upon his return, Colt bought 250 acres of land on the Connecticut River, building two miles of dykes to protect the Armory against flooding.

By 1856, Colt had built what at the time was the largest armory in the world - along with a community of worker's housing and a wharf on the river. He was one of the first industrialists to fully exploit the assembly line and use of interchangeable parts.

Coltsville offered upscale worker's housing for its era, a park with a miniature lake, a school, a church, a theater, reading rooms and library. It had a military band and manicured lawns - all intended to create the type of environment Colt thought best for good work and quality of life.

At the time of Colt's death in 1862 at the beginning of the Civil War, the Armory was producing a thousand firearms a day. Most of the Armory burned to the ground on February 4, 1864, - allegedly by Confederate arsonists. The factory was rebuilt after the war in 1868 by Colt's Widow and today is one of Hartford's most tangible evidences of the Colt architectural legacy.

Elizabeth Colt died in 1905, and the house under the terms of her will was converted to a home for the widows of Episcopalian clergymen. Armsmear is described in official documents today as a "51 unit apartment complex for retired single women."

Located at 80 Wethersfield Avenue, Hartford, CT the Samuel Colt House at the center of the Colt Historical District was deemed a National Historic Landmark in 2008 making it one of Harford, Connecticut's most important historic homes.

Harappa's Civilization

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Harappa's Civilization

Archaeologists discovered two 4000 year old cities lying 400 meters away from each other on the bank of the River Indus. Harappa is one of the largest and most important cities of the Indus Civilization. It is one of the best known sites in Pakistan and is located on the bank of the Ravi River in Punjab Province. It is believed that this city was occupied around 3300 and 1500 BC and covers an area of 250 acres. Like Mohenjodaro, several well built structures displaying great architectural skills have been discovered at Harappa. These include the remains of a citadel, a granary and some cemeteries. The people of Harappa lived in strong brick houses that were often up to three stories high and the city also had an excellent drainage system. The entire city plan is proof of the fact that the people who lived here were civilized and lived in a proper societal setup.

The Harappan civilization was basically urban and the society consisted of many traders who traded with southern India and Afghanistan.

Much of the artwork from this civilization was small and made for personal use. The first objects discovered from this ancient site were small stone seals made of steatite which had pictures of animals, both real and imaginary. Carvings of an ancient script have also been found on the seals. It is believed that the seals may have had some sort of a religious or symbolic significance. Female figurines made of terra cotta have also been unearthed from Harappa. These figures are often crudely made with females wearing huge head dresses with spaces for small lamps on the sides, which indicate the dress code of that time and place. Jewellery items made of shell or semi precious stones have also been excavated from this ancient site.

The Harappan civilization reached its zenith around 2500 BC and began to decline about 2000 BC. The causes of its downfall are uncertain. Some historians suggest that the Aryans may have conquered the territory while others suggest that the people dispersed and became nomads possibly because the soil had lost its fertility so agriculture became difficult.

Despite the fact that it is in ruins, the city still serves to be an attraction for historians, students as well as a number of tourists because of its grandeur and its excellent architecture. To cater to tourists and students, a souvenir shop which offers a large variety of items, is located within the city so that visitors can
send gifts to Pakistan and also take something back with them as a reminder of the secrets buried within the ruins. In fact, the shop also offers courier facilities through which
Pakistan gifts can be sent to relatives and friends so that they too, can get a glimpse of what the historical site has to offer. It must be remembered that Harappa is an ancient site and therefore it is uncertain as to how long it will remain. Therefore, it would be wise to give your loved ones an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of this ancient city with you by sending them souvenirs and
Pakistan gifts that they will actually cherish.

Guilford CT Historic Homes Henry Whitfield Old Stone House

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Guilford CT Historic Homes Henry Whitfield Old Stone House

The Henry Whitfield Old Stone House in Guilford is the oldest house in Connecticut, and the oldest stone house in New England still standing. The Reverend Henry Whitfield was a Puritan from Ockley, Surrey who - together with twenty five families of his congregation - fled England to escape religious persecution by the Church of England under Charles I in 1639.

As a result of advocating church reform, Henry Whitfield was censured as a dissident by the High Commission Court in 1638. Shortly thereafter he resigned his post and gathered together his followers who were his true believers to travel to the New World and establish a colony.

Puritans had been fleeing England for the last nineteen years since the landing at Plymouth. Whitfield and his group first came to the New Haven Colony and consulted with Whitfield's Puritan friend the Reverend John Davenport, the colony's founder. Davenport advised them to purchase land from the Menunkatuck Indians midway between the New Haven and Saybrook Colony at the mouth of the Connecticut River.

They settled the Guilford, Connecticut area in the fall of 1639, and immediately began construction of the house. The Henry Whitfield Old Stone House was built not only for his residence, but according to records also as a fort for the community in case of attack.

The two story home has thick, fortress like walls two feet thick - which is also a testament to how much rock was available at the location for building. Accounts from the time say the local Menunkatuck Indians helped the colonists in the construction of the house by transporting the stones from nearby quarries to the building site. The mortar used to cement the stones was made from yellow clay and crushed oyster shell for lime, a technique used at the time due to the lack of more conventional building materials on the frontier.

It served as a temporary meeting house and place of worship as the new colony was being established. The house has a great hall, a hall chamber, and three chambers on the second floor. The roof is steeply pitched at a sixty degree angle with casement windows in the style of post-medieval domestic architecture found in England, but rare in the New World. For years it was the centerpiece of the Guilord community, and a shelter for people traveling between the New Haven and Saybrook colonies.

By 1650, however the political situation had changed in England with Oliver Cromwell in power, Charles I beheaded and the persecution of the Puritans ended ushering in what was known as the "Counter Migration" of Puritans returning to England. Whitfield made plans to return to England and died there in 1657 and is buried in Winchester Cathedral.

The Henry Whitfield Old Stone House became one of the first house museums in the area and became the embodiment of the Colonial Revival movement in the late 1800 and early 1900's. The Old Stone House was an early poster child of historical preservation activists, and since 1899, is probably the first house museum owned by a state government. The house was restored in 1902-04 and in the 1930s, and was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1997.

The Henry Whitfield Old Stone House and State Museum, is a 7- to 10-minute walk south of the Guilford Town Green at 248 Old Whitfield Street. Come see what life was like for the early Puritan settlers of Connecticut in the 1600's. You can find out more about Guilford, Connecticut's most significant historic home by visiting their website at whitfieldmuseum@snet.net or by calling 203-453-2457.

Guide to Replacing Your Front Door

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Guide to Replacing Your Front Door

The front door, while often overlooked, plays a large role in your home's curb appeal. In addition, it can play a role in the perceived value of your home. If you are like most homeowners, your front door was inherited with your home. Oftentimes, this means that your front door may not reflect the architecture of the home or your personal style. Luckily, replacing your entry door is a relatively affordable way to update the exterior of your home.

What Are the Benefits?
There are several benefits in replacing the front door/entry door. These benefits can include:

Increased energy efficiency. Replacing your front door can mean better energy efficiency. With technological advancements, new doors typically have better insulation properties, which allows them to hold heat in the winter and keep it out in the summer. It is important to be on the lookout for doors with Energy Star stickers!
Improved curb appeal. Having a front door that complements your home can greatly improve your home's aesthetic. When choosing a door, a few factors should be considered, including: your home's architectural style, the color of your existing siding and shutters, and your personal taste.
Better security. One of the most common ways intruders break in is through the front door. A new lock system means better home security. Also, newer doors are usually constructed in sections glued together, and are fused with updated lasers and adhesives; thus, a stronger door is designed to help keep you and your family safe.

Replacing the Front Door
So let's say that you're sold on changing out your front door and you're now wondering, "what's next?" Well, in some cases replacing a door simply means replacing the old door with the new. This is called a slab or blank. On the other hand, there are times when the old door framing has to be ripped out. This includes the door jambs and threshold.

Most doors sold today are pre-hung doors. Pre-hung doors hang on hinges within the new frame and often include some type of weatherstripping. They are the perfect option for cases where the old frame was bad/rotted or if you want to install a larger door and enlarge the opening.

Materials
There are several options for a front door as far as materials. These materials include:

Wood
Wood is the most common door material. Not only are wood doors beautiful, they are also versatile and are available in nearly any stain or paint color. In addition, they can be custom made to fit any size opening or be trimmed to fit a specific doorway. Wood doors are the material of choice for custom designs!

Unfortunately, wood doors has a tendency to warp after being exposed to the elements. Thanks to new technologies, newer wood door models have veneer skins over a wood core. This not only helps to prevent warping, it also helps to lower the cost. However, they should still be examined annually for signs of warping.

Fiberglass and Composite
Fiberglass and composite doors are both durable and maintenance-free. They are a great option since they can mimic the look and feel of a wood door, while being relatively affordable. In addition, fiberglass and composite doors are durable and can stand up to dings without getting dents. Since they are so durable, they are a great choice for harsh and humid climates. While fiberglass and composite doors are durable, energy-efficient, and versatile, they are pricier than other front door options.

Steel
Steel doors are often the most affordable option and are manufactured as part of a pre-hung system. They provide more insulation that wood doors, but typically less than fiberglass. Steel doors are prone to dents; however, most minor dents can be repaired with an auto-body repair kit. Also, if exposed to direct sunlight, steel doors can become hot to the touch. Steel doors are also prone to rust so they might not be the best choice for harsher climates. In addition, they cannot be painted so customizations are limited.

Choosing Your New Door
Replacing the front door/entry door can lead to smoother operation, less maintenance, increased security, better energy efficiency, and improved curb appeal. In the end, the door you choose should reflect your personal style, as well as your home's architecture. In addition, the color, style, and hardware chosen should make your home's curb appeal more appealing. If you have any questions, we invite you to contact us.

Green Country Tulsa, OK Real Estate

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Green Country Tulsa, OK Real Estate

Even bankers will tell you that the only sure investments are in real estate. Real estate has a way of always gaining value. If youre looking to invest in a strong market, take a look at Tulsa, OK real estate. This is a market that is growing, and it is swiftly becoming one of the strongest markets in the nation.

Tulsa has been called "Americas Most Beautiful City" for a variety of reasons. Natural beauty blesses Tulsa, as the Arkansas River and the beautiful Oklahoma countryside provide a gorgeous landscape.

During the oil boom of the 1920s, architects built some of the most iconic homes in midtown Tulsa, OK. Many of these neighborhoods have now been classified in the National Registry of Historic Places.

Economy and Employment in Tulsa, Oklahoma

At the same time, Tulsas economy is enjoying a huge boost. The population is rapidly approaching 1 million people, and Tulsa is creating jobs in the health care, telecommunications, oil and gas, aerospace, and other sectors.

Tulsa recently initiated the Vision 2025 project, which aims to further expand Tulsas economy. The Visions 2025 project will foster the growth of small business, attract investment, add jobs, and increase funding for education.

Sports and Recreation in Tulsa

It is known for having a vibrant cultural scene. Curators nationwide have acclaimed the Philbrook Museum of Art as having one of the greatest collections of Baroque art in the entire country. The Tulsa Historical Society houses valuable artifacts from Oklahomas rich history.

For sports fans, Tulsa offers hard-hitting ice hockey, action-packed arena football, nationally ranked college football, minor league baseball, professional soccer, and NBA D-League basketball.

Top-Notch Education in Tulsa, OK

Several prominent universities are established in Tulsa. Oral Roberts University and the University of Tulsa have both won national acclaim for their strong academic, athletic, and arts programs. In fact, the Princeton Review ranked the University of Tulsa as one of the top ten colleges in the country for students overall happiness, quality of life, and interaction with the community.

Tulsa and the Surrounding Area

People are taking notice of Tulsas suburbs, too. The U.S. government has awarded the Jenks Public Schools with one of the highest governmental honors, the Malcolm Baldrige award. Broken Arrow, OK has the lowest crime rate in all of Oklahoma. Bixby, OK is known as the "The Garden Spot of Oklahoma," and seamlessly combines country livin with the city life.

These suburbs are also adding jobs. Better yet, the real estate in these markets is affordable and profitable.

All of Tulsas suburbs are located very close to Tulsa. Most of the highways that connect Tulsa to its suburbs are known for being congestion-free. Its very convenient to live in a suburb and commute to Tulsa.

The Greater Tulsa area is located in "Green Country."

"Green Country" earned its name from the lush forests and grasslands that populate it. In fact, the geography of northeastern Oklahoma has attracted people to this area for decades.

The homes in Tulsa, OK keep their values. Recently, Business Week ranked Tulsa as #15 in maintaining property values. This means that investing in Tulsa, OK real estate is an extra safe investment. People who invest in Tulsa real estate are investing in a market that is proven to gain value.

Government Involvement in Health Care Reform USA

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Government Involvement in Health Care Reform USA

Because of this experience I am very leery to hand over health care to the government. Dr. Phil once said about relationships, to look at the past is a good indicator of what the future relationship would be. So lets look at the government involvement in health: Medicare.. would probably be in an OK shape if the Trust Fund had not been robbed so many times. My feeling is it is going down now. Medicaid.. not so good either.. Telemedicine, although the President and congress recognize the importance it could have on patients and the health outcome and have provided Grants. The issues regarding reimbursement remain basically the same.

Telemedicine.com describes Telemedicine as the ability to provide interactive healthcare utilizing modern technology and telecommunication. It allows patients to visit with physicians live over video for immediate care or capture video/still images and patient data, store it and send to specialists for diagnosis and follow-up treatment at some later time.

In 1997-1999 I was given the opportunity to be the telemedicine coordinator for the Good Samaritan Society for Northwestern North Dakota. We were on the forefront. The Good Samaritan Society recognized the need in rural areas to provide quality care for their residents of long term care and the difficulty for residents to ride several miles to see a specialist. They applied for a grant through the RUS (Rural Utility Service), which they received. They searched out and aquired the newest technology. Because of being a front runner we were given the opportunity and demonstrated a live telemedicine consult for the National Governor's Conference. We had the capabilities to go live or to store and forward similar to attachment on e-mails for the specialist to view at their convenience. An example of this would be following hip surgery, the capturing of several pictures of the incisional area and then provide a video of the patient working out with physical therapy, therefore allowing the specialist to see how they were doing and any recommendations they would have.

There were several hurdles to jump through to get this network to be viable. One large one was reimbursement. In order to get physicians onboard they needed to be paid. Senator Kent Conrad wrote a bill he presented to congress for Medicare to reimburse for telemedicine.. which passed. We were ecstatic! Then came the guidelines:

1. Only live conferences would be covered, not store and send.

2. There had to be physicians at both the remote site and the hub (specialist) site. Physicians are very busy with emergencies that come up. The chance of getting two physicians at different sites at the exact same time was challenging. How many patients when sent to specialist have their local physician come with?

3. And the clinker was this: The specialist would be reimbursed and he/she would then give a portion of their reimbursement to the local physician! How many specialists would jump on this bandwagon?

I contacted our Senators' office and this is what he said. "It is very difficult to change something once it becomes law." How the guidelines are written is not always the intent of the bill.

According to Telemedicine.com, real-time is the most common use in Telemedicine today. For it allows for live video for the providers and patient to all communicate together. Store and forward is used when both health providers are not available or not required at the same time.Reimbursement is varied specific to the state or country you are in. They have seen clinics and hospitals that are currently working under a Grant which may have allocated funds available to reimburse for the consultation in cases where the patient does not have insurance or their insurance does not cover the consultation.

Because of this experience I am very leery to hand over health care to the government. Dr. Phil once said about relationships; to look at the past is a good indicator of what the future relationship would be. So lets look at the government involvement in health: Medicare.. would probably be in an OK shape if the Trust Fund had not been robbed so many times. My feeling is it is going down now. Medicaid.. not so good either.. Telemedicine, although the President and congress recognize the importance it could have on patients and the health outcome and have provided Grants. The issues remain basically the same regarding reimbursement.

My fear is that by pushing a bill through so rapidly and then the guidelines written, is going to be a disaster! In closing a quote from Franklin Delano Roosevelt, "The only sure bulwark of continuing liberty is a government strong enough to protect the interests of the people, and a people strong enough and well enough informed to maintain its sovereign control over its government."

Gene Bertoncini - Classical & Jazz Guitar Music Master

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Gene Bertoncini - Classical & Jazz Guitar Music Master

Over the decades, classical jazz guitarist Gene Bertoncini has firmly established himself as one of the most eloquent and versatile masters of the pickstyle steel string jazz guitar and fingerstyle nylon string classical guitar! With elegance and ease, he bridges jazz, classical, pop, and bossa nova styles - integrating his own spontaneous and tasteful jazz guitar improvisation along the way. He has earned the highest critical acclaim for his artistry on both the classical and electric guitar! Gene was fortunate enough to have studied guitar with jazz guitar virtuosos Johnny Smith and Chuck Wayne when he was younger.

Bertoncini's musical roots go back to his early years in the Bronx where he grew up in a house filled with music. His love affair with the guitar began when he was seven years old and by the time he was sixteen he was appearing on New York television shows. His career took an unusual turn when he decided to fulfill another long standing interest and earned a degree in architecture at Notre Dame. He was quickly swept into the musical scene at the university and the first thing he did after picking up his degree was to work opposite Carmen McRae in Chicago. He returned to New York to work with vibraphonist Mike Manieri and then with a quintet led by drummer Buddy Rich. He describes his architectural experience as something which gives his jazz guitar music its finely wrought form and style. He wins continual praise for the superb structure of his solo jazz guitar arrangements and improvisations which serve as a vehicle for his virtuoso pickstyle and fingerstyle guitar technique.

Gene Bertoncini has worked with the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, the Benny Goodman Sextet, singers Tony Bennett, Morgana King, Lena Horne, Vic Damone, and Edye Gorme, jazzmen Buddy Rich, Wayne Shorter, Hubert Laws, Clark Terry, Paul Desmond, and Paul Winter, and arranger/composers Burt Bacharach, Lalo Schifrin, and Michel LeGrand among others! He performed regularly on the Merve Griffin and Johnny Carson shows and has been one of the most prolific and popular studio guitarists in New York City. In the late 1970s and early 1980s Gene performed with upright jazz bassist Michael Moore in a duo which The New York Times described as "one of the finest pairings of jazz strings". They recorded several albums together which are considered by many to be some of the most incredible jazz guitar recordings ever released.

Bertoncini's teaching credits include the Eastman School of Music where he regularly performs and conducts summer workshops for jazz guitarists, the New England Conservatory, New York University, and the Banff School of Fine Arts. He has been a highly sought after guest clinician in colleges and universities throughout the country. Fortunately for aspiring guitarists, Gene has gone on to release several instructional jazz guitar tab books and DVD courses that teach his harmonic arranging concepts and techniques.

Garden Arbor Plans - 5 Keys To Building the Perfect Arbor

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Garden Arbor Plans - 5 Keys To Building the Perfect Arbor

If you've decided to add an arbor to your garden, you've made a great decision. Arbors lend structure to an overall landscape design, and they're also a great way to create a focal point in your garden, drawing the observer's eye where you want it to go. If you've decided to build your own arbor, the next step is probably going to be picking out a set of plans. However, if you don't have a lot of experience with building plans, this step can be difficult. How do you know that you're choosing the best design for your yard? In this article, we'll explore five keys to choosing the right plan and building an arbor that's perfectly suited to your needs.

1. Think in terms of scale.
Building an arbor of the appropriate size is very important. When choosing plans, consider the overall scale of your garden or the specific area where the arbor will be located. Just as you wouldn't want a very small arbor dwarfed by an enormous deck, you also wouldn't want a mammoth 10 or 12 foot tall garden arbor in line with a 3 foot tall picket fence.

2. Consider the architecture of your home.
Styles and designs of garden arbors are as varied as the architecture of our homes. You'll want to pick something that works with the style of your home, not against it. For example, if you live in a Tuscan style home, you wouldn't want a craftsman-style arbor in your yard. Instead, you'd want to look for something with a Mediterranean feel to it.

3. What will the arbor's purpose be?
Some garden arbors are simply there for looks, while others serve a utilitarian purpose. When looking at plans, be sure to consider what your arbor's purpose will be. Do you want something with a bench seat underneath to create a cozy garden nook for reading or relaxing? Or does your arbor need to be built with a gate underneath, so it can fit in line with a fence and mark the entry point to a yard or garden? Whatever its purpose will be, make sure you take this into account as you look at building plans.

4. Choose the right type of wood.
Because garden arbors are exposed to the elements, choosing the right type of wood is critical. You don't want to put many hours of labor and love into building a beautiful arbor, only for it to start falling apart a few years later. Generally speaking, redwoods are the preferred building material for outdoor structures like arbors. Red cedar, for example, is naturally resistant to weather decay and insect infestations. Steer clear of pine; while it may be less expensive, it won't hold up in the long run. Treated wood can work well, though it's not the best choice if your arbor will be located in close proximity to garden plants. The chemicals in the wood can poison and kill some plants.

5. Don't bite off more than you can chew.
Last but not least, don't try to tackle a project that's too difficult for you. If you don't have much woodworking experience or aren't extremely confident in your building skills, then don't choose a complex set of plans. As a general rule of thumb, shy away from plans that require difficult joinery methods such as mortise and tenon joints. If all else fails, consider buying a ready to assemble kit. Arbor kits come in hundreds of designs, shapes, and sizes, and can easily be ordered online or though specialty catalogs.

Fun Things to do in Chicago

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Fun Things to do in Chicago

Chicago is known as the Windy City. The city is extremely beautiful and attracts many tourists. The views are serene and breathtaking. The city comprises of world-class museums, art institutes, vibrant shopping districts, city parks, miles of beaches, skyscrapers and many nightlife venues.

Interested in knowing exciting things to do in Chicago? Have a look at the following places, which offers you amazing things to do in Chicago.

1. Art Institute in Chicago

It is a famous art center in Chicago. It comprises of more than 300,000 artworks of various kind in galleries and hallways. The entrance is very attractive as an iconic pair of bronze lions welcome you in. From Japanese prints to Greek sculptures, one can find
everything here. It has many classic paintings as well including Grant Wood's American Gothic. All this art may make you hungry thus; the Institute has the very famous restaurant Terzo Piano. The menu offers various delightful Italian dishes with amazing views of the Millennium Park.

2. Millennium Park

The Park is famous for open free concerts, public art installations. The park is located in an area of 24.5 acres. It is more of a picnic spot where you may sit down with your family or friends and have a gala time. In the center of the park, there is Jay Pritzker Pavilion, which hosts city's biggest outdoor festivals and concerts. The main attraction here is the pavilion, cloud gate and the crown foundation. The mesmerizing views of Lurie Garden also attract people. Also then, there are Pedestrian bridges, which leads to Art Institute and Maggie Daley Park.

3. Wrigley Field

It is a famous legendary stadium in Wrigley ville. The main attraction here is baseball. Many baseball fans come here to watch the matches. In addition, if there is no match then also people visit here to explore the place and grab a quick snack in the stands.

4. Garfield Park Conservatory

It was opened in 1908. It is known as "landscape under glass ". It is one of the world's largest conservatory. The beauty of this conservatory is its revolutionary architecture. The buildings here are covered with haystack and stones. Also, the different species of plants never fail to astonish the visitors.

5. Lincoln Park Zoo

It is the last free zoo in the world. There are around 12000 animals here. It is spread in an area of 35 acre. Visitors see animals of different kinds like apes, zebras, flamingo and many more. Also, there are many events which attract many visitors including the locals. The events are seasonal and are a sight to look at. The zoo helps you to connect with animals of various countries.

To visit these and many other places in Chicago you need to plan a trip with travel agencies. Travel agency will help you explore more options as well. Try booking a trip with BookOtrip LLC to any place. It will make your trip happening and memorable.

Front Yard Landscaping Secrets

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Front Yard Landscaping Secrets

Your front yard says a lot about you. It is the first thing that visitors see, even before they enter your home. Your front yard landscaping often is the first impression that your neighbors will have about you. Taking a little time to design your front yard landscaping will pay off with years of enjoyment.

Keep Your Front Yard Landscaping Consistent With Your House

Before you decide on your front yard landscaping, take time to choose a style that fits with the type of house you live in. If you live in a Spanish style stucco bungalow, choose a plant scheme that is compatible with this style of architecture. For example, consider terra cotta planters, draping bougainvillea plants and other tropical foliage. If you live in a sprawling ranch house, consider low growing shrubs and changing annuals.

Keep Your Front Yard Landscaping Easy On Maintenance

Before you invest your time and money in landscaping your front yard, take the time to do the preliminary work the correct way. Invest in a good sprinkler and drip water system, complete with a timer. For years to come, you will enjoy a green lawn and healthy plants without ever having to worry that you forgot to water.

Take the time to have your yard leveled before you plant grass, and have an expert give you advice on any drainage issues you might face. Putting the extra work in before you plant can save you lots of money and work down the road. If you dont like the grade of your yard, it is easy to add top soil to your yard and change the level of your slopes.

If mowing isnt your thing, consider having easy to maintain groundcovers instead of grass as a part of your front yard landscaping plan. Many people prefer to have their grass behind their house and choose to landscape their front yard using shrubs, rocks, bark, or even flagstone.

Have Fun Landscaping Your Front Yard: But Not Too Much Fun

It can be a lot of fun to show off a little personality in your front yard. While your front yard can be a great canvas for expressing yourself, dont make it an eyesore that causes your neighbors to shudder. Having one garden gnome or a cute garden sign is fun, but having a collection of gnomes or pink flamingos can be a bit overwhelming. Strive to create a classic balance of whimsy in your front yard and your landscaping will be appreciated by everyone who visits.

From Jungle to Beach Discover Malaysia's Wildlife

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From Jungle to Beach Discover Malaysia's Wildlife

Many of us have a passion for exploring exotic and exciting places around the globe. However, if its your first time visiting somewhere, knowing where to start can be tough. Ive put together this quick guide to our escorted wildlife tour of the enchanting country of Malaysia with a few handy hints telling you what to see and where to go. Malaysia is famous for its stunning wildlife and is perfect for nature lovers and bird watchers.
Bright Lights and Skyscrapers

All Malaysian adventures should start in the modern metropolis of Kuala Lumpur. A true melting-pot of architecture, cultures and cuisines, youll find classical colonial buildings rubbing shoulders with cutting edge skyscrapers and ancient temples. Take a walk around the city dusk to get a sense of the buzz here before having a delicious evening meal in China town.

Getting Started in Frasers Hill

Wave the city goodbye because its time to start your wildlife tour. We begin only a couple of hours drive away from Kuala Lumpur in the ornithologists paradise, Frasers Hill. Spend a few days here taking in the incredible biodiversity of the forest surrounding this former hill station. Youll see plenty of rare and interesting birds and plants if you take advantage of one of the fascinating hikes, such as the Hemmant Trail, available.

Make sure to participate in a night walk so you can check out some unusual nocturnal species. If you take a trip to the nearby Jeriau Waterfall youve a good chance of seeing the wonderfully named David Bowie spider!

Delving Deeper in Taman Negara

Next on your itinerary is the ancient rainforest of Taman Negra. To reach the centre of the jungle you must travel down the river watch out for Malayan Water Monitors before reaching your accommodation. In terms of wildlife, Malaysias oldest national park has it all. From Leopard Cats and Slow Loris to butterflies and millipedes, any wildlife tour on offer in the heart of this jungle will not disappoint. Youll feel like a real naturalist, waiting in hides to catch a glimpse of the rainforests inhabitants.

Dont miss the canopy walkway here it is the longest in the world and offers unrivalled views of Taman Negara as long as you have a good head for heights.

Relaxing in Langkawi

To round off your thrilling wildlife tour of Malaysia, head to the heavenly archipelago of Langkawi. Langkawi comprises of almost 100 islands off the east coast of Malaysia and is home to species such as Paradise Tree Snakes, Hornbills, Dusky Langurs and Flying Lemurs. If youre a bird lover youll want to spend at least one day in the Kilim Karst Geopark remember to bring your binoculars! For a truly unforgettable experience, book a night safari and head off into the dusk in search of black turtles and water snakes. After a busy couple of weeks seeing all Malaysia has to offer youll be happy to kick back and relax by the sparkling blue sea.

Author Plate

John Dixon is an experienced world traveller and the Managing Director of Prestige Holidays. For over 30 years, he has been providing luxury holidays to many destinations around the globe. Recently his well-received wildlife tour of Malaysia has been included in the holiday portfolio. John tries to visit each of the destinations regularly in order to ensure the quality of his properties, and stay up-to-date about the latest local news and events. He has a taste for the finer things in life and has an interest in arts, history and culture.

French Style Roofing Tiles In History And Modern Architecture

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French Style Roofing Tiles In History And Modern Architecture

The origins of clay roof tiles may in fact go back to the beginnings of recorded civilization; they were known to the ancient Egyptians as well as the Indus River civilization, and terra cotta roof tiles dating back to the 4th millennium before the Common Era have been found at archeological sites in Greece and present-day Iraq.

French roofing tiles bear very little resemblance to their ancient predecessors. Although present-day France was once part of the Roman Empire (when it was known as Gaul) and was strongly influenced by Roman culture and architecture, except in the southern region of Provence, the climate is unsuitable for the Mediterranean type of tile. Shingles made from slate eventually became more common in the northern part of the country. Even today, most French roof tiles are likely to be tile shingles.

Materials Used in French Roof Tiles

It is likely that the Normans (actually Scandinavian settlers who eventually adopted the French language and culture) introduced French style roofing tiles to England starting in the 13th Century AD. Restricted to homes of royalty, nobility and aristocrats as well as religious structures such as cathedrals, these tiles could vary a great deal in terms of shape, size and color. Although kiln-fired clay could be used, slate was also a common material - and more suited to the damp northern climate.

French roofing tiles go back at least to the early Middle Ages; at least one company has been in the business of manufacturing French roof tiles since the mid-1500s. These quality tile shingles are still available today to homeowners in Canada and the U.S.

French roof tiles may also be made of ceramic; alternatively, French style roofing tiles may be made out of any material, including clay - provided that the clay has been suitably treated to stand up to the climate. There are in fact three grades of French style roofing tiles, each of which is rated for a different level of cold. Grade 1 is recommended for climates such as Montana and Alberta; these are of course the most expensive type. Grade 3 is fine for use on homes in areas such as Phoenix, Las Vegas and Southern California.

Keep In Mind...

If you plan to use French roofing tiles, remember that although they are quite durable, they are also much heavier than standard composite roofing materials. Make certain your structure can bear the increased load before installing French style roofing tiles.

Free Photo Contest With Cash Prizes - How To Win

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Free Photo Contest With Cash Prizes - How To Win

How do you enter and win a free photo contest with cash prizes?

Do you know that 97% of ALL winning photographers use the same 7 tactics that cause them to win in photo contests?

And you might be surprised to learn that in many contests, photographers really aren't prepared as much as they think they are.

Each year more and more people enter photography contests. This is because of the popularity of digital cameras and because its much more affordable and accessible for pretty much any photo enthusiast to take great shots.

As a photographer who has entered (and sometimes won) national photo contests and who also judges them, there are some important tips I want to share with you that can help give you a winning edge in any contest.

So you might be thinking, what does it take to have a photo selected as the winner in a photo contest?

First of all art in general is subjective - not just in 2010 but always. So it can be difficult to know exactly what a judge will like or not like. With that being said, good composition is a key element of good photographs but honestly it is something that's hard to define.

For example, how can you arrange a scene's elements in your camera's viewfinder that will not only determine the intended outcome of your picture's design, but will also reinforce how well the message is portrayed? This is something to think about.

Creativity and originality in your photos is key. We really like to see your personality shine through in your shots. Well what is original?

It's a photo that causes the viewer to say "Wow I never thought it could be done like that" or "I never saw it that way. Very cool." For example, there are a lot baby shots out there. So if that's what you want to submit to a photo contest, how can you make your baby shot original and unlike the rest?

I often see photographs that have been over-enhanced with Photoshop. It is a pity to disqualify a GREAT photo because it looks fake. If you need to need to enhance your photos, use just the right amount that enhances and does not dominate.

Sometimes photographers choose very fancy and bright colored borders but this distracts the judges and makes them look away from the photo. If you really like how your photo looks with a border and do not want to remove it, I recommend that you try to use a small, thin and neutral colored one.

As you prepare your submission for our free photo contest and think about the pride, glory, prestige and bragging rights that will come with a winning shot, then I invite you to watch our Top Gun Photo Tips video.

In our free video you find out what the 7 winning tactics are. And you see EXACTLY how to put those tactics to work for yourself, so you can get a shot at winning cash and prizes or maybe even get your winning photo published!

So get ready to be our next winner in our free photo contest with cash prizes!

Frances Elkins An American Interior Designer

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Frances Elkins An American Interior Designer

The interior designer, Frances Elkins was exceptional in that she combined American styles with European classical style to create a unique blend. She was one of the early female designers to succeed in the art of interior decoration. Her masterpieces have secured an exalted position for her in the minds of designers and art lovers.

Frances Adler Elkins was one of those legendary decorators of the early 20th century and was renowned for her inspired designs. Elkins was born in 1888 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and is the younger sister of the celebrated Chicago architect David Adler (1882-1949). David Adler was an architect specialized in the French architecture movement know as The Beaux Arts, and both Adler and Elkins worked together in Chicago and the Bay Area from the 1920s to 1930s. Some of her works in the Bay Area includes interior designing of Yerba Buena Club at the Golden Gate International Exposition and the 1939 fair at Treasure Island in San Francisco Bay. Her designs integrate the prevailing style of various places with changing timeline in history, and ranges from country French to Chinoiserie to art deco.

In the beginning she was influenced by the works of Jean-Michel Frank who is a French interior and furniture designer, and Alberto Giacometti, a sculptor who designed fixtures. She promoted these designers through her California-based interior design business established in 1918.

Elkin's career started when she and her husband Felton moved to Monterey, California where they purchased the historic abode Casa Amesti and transformed it into a masterpiece in architecture with their diverse architectural styles and periodic transformations. She showed exceptional talent in interior designs with classical details such as a dentil cornice and fluted door casings being added to the plastered wall and plank ceilings of the residence. Elkins had her own design principles which she tried first in the dwelling itself by arranging various English, French and Chinese furnishings on the polished redwood floors. She had a special affection for white, blue and yellow colors.

Elkin's creativity was enhanced by her friends who often urged her to decorate their homes. Her initial masterpieces include the clubhouse of Cypress Point Club which she designed in 1930. The same period saw her reputation spreading to San Francisco where she was the chosen interior designer for the city's famous families such as the Haases and the Zellerbachs. The Zellerbach mansion in Broadway contains some of Elkin's original designs. She was one of the architects among the trio who was elected by the San Francisco society. Her interior design works have influenced designers such as Michael Taylor.

Her usage of colors within her interior design schemes were accepted with great enthusiasm during the early periods of the twentieth century, due to the unique style and fineness she had incorporated into her works. Her contemporary furnishings have the combination of fine antiques blended into them and the combination set a trend in the 'eclectic' style which had become popular ever since. Her designs stood ahead of the time they were designed and attract art lovers even today.

Four Key strategies for a structure QA process

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Four Key strategies for a structure QA process

A tester's responsibility is developing alongside the adjustment in industry innovation and a move toward a coordinated strategy. This change opens unexplored, energizing, and testing open doors for analyzers all over the place. How about we take a gander at what this move has implied for testing professionals through the viewpoint of my own understanding.

The traditional Way: Find only the Bugs

My underlying years as a QA tester were short on basic considering. Each morning the testing group was given a rundown of utilization to survey. The allocated asset would introduce the applications and endeavor to break the usefulness.

Our execution audits were straightforward: The more bugs we found, the more brilliant we were! There was no idea, no methodology, no inspiration. Our respites were exchanges loaded with the quantity of bugs each of us discovered as opposed to the nature of those bugs.

That made them think. What esteem did we include? Would it be advisable for us to simply test to discover bugs? I had an excessive number of inquiries without answers.

Building a QA Process

My next activity was an existence changer. As a component of testing a usefulness, the QA group would likewise investigate, dissect the stack follow, and give the underlying driver of the issue to the engineers. It was reviving to see everybody work together as one group with a typical reason.

I understood that an analyzer was not an unimportant individual endeavoring to break the instrument, however more a cooperative person adding to the general exertion. As the analyzers turned into various groups, we organized ceaseless change of robotization and top to bottom learning about every segment. I built up an entirely unexpected point of view about QA and a newly discovered regard about what amount included esteem this part brings.

In my next position, when I began I was quickly matched with a QA planner. I didn't know then that this mentorship would have a significant and enduring effect on me. I understood the significance of following a more organized way to deal with QA. With the assistance of the QA modeler, I sharpened and consummated four methodologies toward an enhanced QA process.

1. Survey Design and Architectural Documents

It's dependably a smart thought to run in with however much learning about the item under test as could reasonably be expected If plan and building archives are accessible, give them a read. You would be flabbergasted by the amount more you comprehend the item's design, the incorporated segments, and the stream of information than you would from testing alone. Take notes and attract a parallel to what you are trying and how the framework interfaces.

2. Research Past Defects

The past advises the present. It is critical to know the unsafe zones and the most vulnerable usefulness that could break your application with each change. That sort of information could originate from the historical backdrop of imperfections.

Lead some exploration on your imperfection instrument and examine past deformities detailed. Any anticipated example that left this investigation would enable you to grow more robotization around those territories. On the off chance that there are client detailed imperfections, investigate those as well. This activity will enable you to settle on choices about the test procedure for different discharges.

3. Triage the Defects

QA finds an issue, so you report it. However, your activity isn't done you can go well beyond by asking some extra essential inquiries. Is there something else you could have done? Do you know why this issue happened, what caused the issue, and which submit may have been the issue?

This isn't only the activity of the engineers. You approach the log record, submits, and the code, so you can do some burrowing to help settle issues. Contingent upon how specialized you will be, you can dive as deep as you prefer. In any case, on an abnormal state, take a gander at the exemptions in the log. Is it an invalid pointer special case? Does that need to do with particular information or some succession of steps?

Limit the issue and begin a discussion with the designer. They will value the definite data and research.

4. Go past the Reported Issue

Don't simply concentrate on testing usefulness. Consider the back-end and front-end communications of your application, as well.

For example, as you test screen the logs, the application may work of course however with a few mistakes happening in the back end. Are the logs point by point enough? Are the special cases being taken care of? For program collaborations, open the designer devices in your program and screen the system segment. Is the reaction taking longer than it should? Is there any demand that isn't required while getting to a few sections of your application?

Every one of these inquiries enable the analyzer to go well beyond what they are "doled out" to test. They likewise support talks with the item proprietor and engineers, who might not have considered some of these situations.

It is crucial to be a light-footed attitude when looking for item holes and the answers for filling them. One key lesson in testing is being proactive rather than receptive. The bugs you reveal may end up being issues or specialized stories, however by having that answer, you have anticipated blunders that may have gone unnoticed or come up as more significant issues considerably later.

Conclusion

Being a product analyzer is never again pretty much discovering bugs and endeavoring to break the application. It is about persistent change, characterizing an unmistakable test technique, and going that additional mile to enhance quality. Following a steady, organized way to deal with QA will enable you to gain more learning about the item you are trying, make inquiries you generally might not have thought of, and turn into a genuine proprietor of value.

For an unmatched dining experience!

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For an unmatched dining experience!

Interior designer Sumessh Menon uses his penchant for materiality to augment culinary illusion that is the signature of the modernist gourmet diner, Farzi caf, Mumbai
That Indians are a highly adaptable race is being recurrently proven with the number of fusion foods that seem only to be multiplying by the minute. Fine-dines, lounges and small-time cubby-hole eateries serving dishy gourmet cuisine are pepping up the eating-out scene like never before.

Elements of molecular gastronomy, modern techniques, customized equipment and culinary illusion that constitute table theatrics transform flavours for a unique, high energy, modernist and genre-defining Indian dining experience that is Farzi caf. Farzi as the name suggests refers to illusion; and this caf-style eatery with its pocket-friendly price-points and fusion interiors aims at creating an unparalleled culinary experience.

Sustaining the illusion-creating thematic, the restaurant has a charming European architecture-inspired pristine white, balcony-style faade that opens indoors via a double-height volume to a dual-storeyed diner. Complete with fluted pseudo columns and arched windows, one sees a sharp contrast of textures and styles blended together perfectly in the large double-heighted space.

Playing with the verticality of the volume, is a delightfully earthy-looking terracotta patterned wall juxtaposed against a stunningly contrasting 22 ft. high backlit bar display that immediately draws the eye to its splendid and unique laser-cut design that finds its complement on the backlit risers of the grand staircase.

The imposing bar counter is uniquely shaped with two cylindrical edges and a beautiful red travertine countertop that form a sturdy backdrop to the milieu, scattered with seating options in varying styles: sofas, high chairs, and regular chairs on both lower and upper levels.

A vast backlit ceiling installation in chevron pattern shrouds the whole place in a spectacular warm, diffused light, setting the mood of the eatery as floor-to-slab laser-cut backlit paneling laid out angularly stuns with a European-style art print on the upper deck; and a similar screen panel regales on the lower floor with beautiful amber coloured tinted glass designs in a circular pattern.

Earthy tones of warm red and honeyed amber lend to the uniquely eclectic colour palette that blends hints of polished European style with raw and earthy vernacular allure.

As is his signature style, Sumessh Menon lives up to creating an idiosyncratic, chic, modern sensory experience in a high energy ambience waiting for the ultimate finishing touch of the farzi gastronome! visit indiaartndesign.com to view the images of this restaurant.

Five Spectacular Instagram Feeds for the Globetrotter in You

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Five Spectacular Instagram Feeds for the Globetrotter in You

Off-lately, if you have surfed through the Instagram explore tab, you will have come across bloggers who are making a lifestyle out of blogging, be it for fashion, food, photography or travel. Making a living out of travel blogging is one such subject we have picked today for discussion.

Travel bloggers live out of their backpack and make memories and money both by travel blogging. The proof? Their impeccable Instagram hashtag feed.

Instagram is a photo display platform and we have gathered today the best of the live Instagram content from travel bloggers to satiate your wanderlust-

Yoshke Dimen & Vins Carlos

The duo from the Philippines goes by the Instagram ID thepoortraveler, which is quite unlikely to their name. On a hunt for budget travel, the twosome works intensively towards creating budget travel articles and they also run a successful blog.

Topping travel blog charts on USA Today, GoDesti and BlogMeter repeatedly, Dimen & Carloss blog fulfils the queries of rookie and professional travellers equally.

If budget travel tips and guidelines are what you are seeking for, head over to their Instagram hashtag feed for visual delight and their blog for friendly travel tips &mistakes to avoid while travelling.

Lauren Bath

Lauren Bath has a spectacular display of live Instagram content on her feed. The colours on her feed mix very well and have the perfect blend for intriguing anyone. Lauren is Australias most sought-after travel blogger with a fan following of 465K.

The travelling woman has a dream feed with vivid skylines, sunsets and water bodies reflecting striking details and dramatic colours. Wildlife, aerial shots and natures pictures add to the mystique of her feed.

Undoubtedly, Lauren has made complete use of the Instagram photo display platform. Bath runs The Travel Bootcamp with her team and successfully runs travel campaigns, conferences, and workshops for travel enthusiasts.

Cesar Ovalle

Hailing from So Paulo Brazil, Ovalle displays Instagram posts live on his feed in a modern and aesthetic manner. His pictures reflect modern travel tales with crisp details from city life, pictures by the waters, architecture extravaganza and the game of shadows and lights.

Ovalles website is a simplified and segregated approach to photography and travel. Using mobile as his tool for photography (as we read from his Instagram bio), Ovalle has an audience of 393K on the Instagram photo display platform.

Say hello to the travel blogger on Facebook and have a conversation about travel tips and guides with the man himself.

We are going back to gaping at his Instagram hashtag feed for travel and photography cues.

Allan Edward Hinton

Allan Edward Hinton brings his Instagram feed on his website and shares about his former life in London as a Digital Marketing Manager to his present life as a travel blogger and a photographer. The travel bug stung Allan passionately and led him to quit his job, sell his possessions and step out to explore the world through this travel lens.

Three years down and Allan as chaiwalla has a loyal following of 168K on the Instagram photo display platform. Brand collaborations for photography, social media campaigns and content creation, Allan shares his travel stories on his blog with stunning pictures and travel content.

What impresses us the most here is how Allan displays Instagram posts live on his website in sync with Instagram for extensive travel tips!

Ryan Gargiulo

Pause the Moment, quite literally, pause the moment and take a moment to surf through Ryans website blog and his Instagram hashtag feed to borrow some travel inspiration and word of advice for the travel bugs.

Ryan travels extensively and it would not be wrong to quote that the world has become Ryans home. The explorer and blogger shares that he left his 9-5 job to only take a six-month trip. The trip never ended, instead began, and gave Ryan a wholly new successful profession travel blogger and digital influencer.

Rich travel blogs are up on the website which is inclusive of recommendations, short travel guides, smart applications for travelers and more.

Unsolicited advice: Informative blog and alluring pictures may coax you to quit your job. Proceed with caution!

With travel bloggers having an abundance of breath-taking pictures to share from their travels, we recommend using live Instagram walls that are an ideal fit for social campaigns, travel based conferences and events. Live Instagram walls can also display the Instagram feed on websites.

Instagram walls are tools that vividly display and organize your Instagram feed pictures and bring out the best of your feed expanding your follower base and building brand value and user-engagement.

Finding an Ideal Rental Apartment in Alberta

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Finding an Ideal Rental Apartment in Alberta

Alberta is endowed with all the amenities to meet the requirements of the most discerning renters.

The question here is how can you find an apartment to move in if you are new to this area and don't know anything about it?

The easiest and the most reliable solution in such case will be to hire a real estate agent.

You can share your requirements with the agents, how much your budget is, what kind of apartment are you looking for, and they will come up with a list of properties that will perfectly fit your desires and bills.

Lets talk a little about this city before starting our voyage for happy apartment search.

Top five things for newcomers to do in Alberta:

1) Golfing: You can try an exciting golf session here in the world-class golf courses, such as Northern Bear Golf Club and Waterton Lakes Golf Club.

2) Clubbing: One can explore the fashionable crowd by going to the clubs of this region. 

3) Outdoor sports: Alberta is an adventurous sports destination. You can enjoy the most popular outdoor sports, such as water sports, skiing, snowboarding, biking, and hiking.

4) Shopping: You can set your new apartment by buying new items from these shopping places. Alberta has several many outlet stores, specialty shops, designer shops and antique shops.

5) Sightseeing: The major attractions include: Calgary tower, museums, art galleries, historical landmarks, zoo and botanical gardens etc.

If you have arrived in Alberta for a short period of time, then you can go with temporary forms of housing available, such as staying in a motel, hotel, or a B & B establishment (bed & breakfast), as these can be rented for a small duration of time.

But, if you wish to stay long in Alberta, then you go with long-term management solution, by renting an apartment.

There are many renowned companies that offer a wide variety of apartments for the single or the multi-family in Alberta.

A checklist to consider before renting an apartment:

Before signing a rental lease you need to consider the following points:

Examine the place carefully, from appliances to fixtures, floors to walls, bathrooms to bedrooms etc.
Take some time to walk around the area to check the neighborhood.
Interview your potential landlord to clear all the doubts regarding the lease, security deposit, monthly payments, bills, and amenities etc.
Make sure that the fittings (toilet, shower, lights, etc.) and appliances (refrigerator, stove, dishwasher) are in proper working condition.
Look for safety features of the building, such as security system, fire exits and smoke detectors.
Laundry services in the apartment building may also be a priority.
Check out the place for the nearby bus stop, grocery stores, schools and other services.
Ask yourself if the location suits you.
Enquire about various utilities (water, electricity, and heat) provided within the monthly rent.

Get tenant insurance:

In Alberta, renters are responsible for any damage they may cause to the apartment where they live in. For this reason, tenants should protect the property with tenant insurance.

Whether you are moving to this province from across the world or across the country, there are numerous services and programs in this place that can help to enjoy the new life here.

There are numerous opportunities to choose from and getting the right one that will work for you. It may take some time but not an impossible task that cannot be accomplished.

Hunting for an ideal place to rent can be thrilling and overwhelming. Moreover, it gets even harder if you are new to the place.

While searching on the internet provides many flexible options to find the perfect housing for you and your loved ones. There are plenty of websites that provide the ease to find your next home with just a few clicks of the mouse.

But, if you follow the above-mentioned tips, you will get well prepared to act smartly to meet your requirements, and find a great place to live hassle-free and safe with your family.

Find Medieval Magic in Ferrara

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Find Medieval Magic in Ferrara

The city of Ferrara is situated on a branch of the beautiful Po River in Northern Italy. Its location makes the charming town an ideal stop for visitors exploring the countryside via river cruises. Italy is famous for its ancient towns steeped in intrigue, romance and drama and Ferrara is no different! Read on to uncover this UNESCO World Heritage Sites thrilling medieval past.
The Ancient City of Ferrara

Ferrara provides a fantastic example of a medieval European city, complete with palaces, churches, charming cloisters and outdoor courtyards. Though now an ideal location for beach holidays, culture breaks and river cruises, Italy was once a dangerous melting pot of influential families vying for power. The city of Ferrara owes both its fascinating history and much of its beautiful architecture to one specific family the House of Este.

The House of Este and the Castello Estense

In the twelfth century a noble Italian family, known as the House of Este, set up their court in Ferrara. After the locals rebelled against tax in 1377 the family fortified their palace, creating an impressive military stronghold to defend themselves against angry citizens. With four towers and a deep moat, even the most violent of rioters struggled to put a dent in the brick fortress called the Castello Estense.

The family founded a university in the city a few decades later which was a key step in heightening their power and influence. Soon members of the Este Court could be found in the most important circles across Europe. However, the family was made infamous by a certain young boy called Nicol III who became head of the household in 1393.

The Legend of Nicol III

Nicol became master of the family at just 10 and got married at the tender age of 14. Despite his age, marital fidelity was not his style and he is said to have kept an astonishing 800 mistresses. Even with so many women around, Nicol only had about thirty children all of which were brought up in a ramshackle manner in Castello Estense.

Nicols cheerful, chubby cheeks disguised a jealous and controlling disposition. After catching his beautiful wife in the arms of her stepson son Ugo he had them both brutally beheaded in the dungeons of his castle. This thrilling tale was famously immortalised by the British poet, Lord Byron.

Difficult family relations seem to be a tradition for the House of Este, with two of Nicols grandsons blinding their brothers in a fit of jealousy. The two blighted siblings plotted to take over the throne and were thrown into the cells beneath Castello Estense for their troubles they were left there for years and years!

In Ferrara you can see the sites of these dramatic historical happenings with your own eyes. Take advantage of the areas wonderful river cruises Italy has many fantastic route options and arrive in town by boat before exploring the Palazzo Municipale, the ancient churches and cloisters, and of course the dungeons of the Castello Estense where many of the House of Este met their end!

Author Plate

Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, the UK's most respected provider of all-inclusive, luxury river cruises and barge holidays throughout Europe. If you're looking for the most exciting and relaxing river cruises, Italy is an ideal choice. Part of a team of experienced barging aficionados, Paul is first in line to endorse the perks of a slow-paced barge cruise to anyone looking for a unique holiday experience.

Filing Your Tax Return

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Filing Your Tax Return

We all work so hard for our money that the thought of parting ways often makes us restless, yet everyone knows that our government was designed to function with our tax paying dollars. Many of us out there feel as though the only thing you can count on is death and taxes. Often times we ask ourselves, "Would the government know if I didn't pay my taxes?" Yes, the Internal Revenue Department is adamant that we all do our part to keep the country economically viable. Ever heard of Al Capone? The FBI tried for years to convict him of his many heinous crimes. Who finally got him and trotted him off to jail where he died? Yes, the IRS tried him for income tax evasion and put him in prison. Finally, one of the most notorious criminals of the Twentieth Century went to jail because he didn't pay his taxes. Obviously, we all need to understand the basics of Income taxes or we can join all of those other criminals sitting in jail because they thought they could beat the IRS.

According to federal and most state laws, if you made some sort of an income last year, than you must file an income tax return. Income tax returns are required regardless if you had income tax withheld or not; while all businesses except partnerships must file an annual tax return. For the individual, when determining whether you must file or not, the IRS takes into account your income, filing status, and age.

We must understand that the requirement of filing an income tax return is not voluntary, rather mandatory and extremely important. The Internal Revenue Service has clearly stated out the requirements for filing in the following codes 6011(a), 6012(a), et seq. If you fail to file an income tax return it is considered a Class A misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of one year in jail and a $10000 fine. While the penalty for filing a frivolous income tax return is only $500, the penalty.

Thanks to modern technologically we now have the option of filing our taxes faster than before. The fastest way for you to file is electronically or you may still prefer to file the old fashion way via the mail. Whether your return is complicated or easy, both these methods will work. The primary form for the income tax return is either the 1040 NR or 1040 NR-EZ. The average time to process an accurate tax return is between six and eight weeks. Your tax return is due on April 15th. If the income tax return is late (even one day), there is an automatic tax due of 25% of your tax return. If you know that you're going to be late, file an extension, taxpayers are granted an automatic six month extension for filing an individual income tax return.

Filing an e-turn can be very beneficial to you, especially if you are waiting to receive money back from the government. If you should choose to e-file your tax return you then have the option to use direct deposit, this allows you to receive your return in as little as 10 days. Even if you do not choose the direct deposit option, you will usually receive your tax refund in half the time by e-filing.

Keep in mind that one of the most important things when filing your federal or state tax return, if filing by mail, is remembering to sign it. In some cases you may need to get a hold of your previously filed tax return. You can obtain this information in a written request to the IRS.

It is extremely important to file an income tax return. There are several non-profit organizations with trained volunteers who provide basic income tax return preparation and free tax counseling for senior citizens. If you need help, contact the IRS or a tax service. Tax returns leave no room for mistake.

Far East cruises a treat for the senses

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Far East cruises a treat for the senses

What better way to invigorate the senses than on a cruise to the Far East? This week we travel to Japan, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea following last week's visit to China.
There are numerous port cities in the Far East with historical and cultural importance, and - depending on your cruise liner - you might get to visit a good number of these as part of your holiday package.

In Japan, for example, Nagasaki is a major port city that is also deeply significant due to being bombed during World War II. It has a Peace Park marking the event, while other attractions in and around the metropolis include the oldest wooden Christian church in the country, known as O-ura Tenshu-do, together with a host of natural sights - including a volcano and Saikai National Park.

In Thailand, Bangkok is a great stop for those looking to experience the country's rich culture, architecture and cuisine. The city is home to a number of temples, parks and canals, as well as major attractions such as the National Museum, the Grand Palace and the Phra Sumeru Fortress.

Elsewhere in the Far East, the unique fusion of old and new in Singapore is likely to be a major draw for cruise goers. The city-state features eye-wateringly high skyscrapers, serene parks and gardens, bustling shops and restaurants, and arts and culture venues that can be said to be works of art in their own right.

Further north, Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia is another potential cruise stop that melds tradition and modernity to offer a unique holiday destination. Immerse yourself in the city's culture by visiting the Islamic Arts Museum, the National Art Gallery and its many examples of breathtaking architecture, or check out the area's busy markets and shops to see if you can haggle yourself a bargain.

Further east, South Korea is home to no fewer than 11 ports, with Incheon perhaps being the most well-known of these. Sights that can be found in and around the city include Songdo Amusement Park, Ganghwado Island - which harbours a UNESCO World Heritage Site - and Suwon Hwaseong Fortress.

Look no further than Virgin Holidays Cruises for a Singapore cruise, Japan cruise or other Far East cruise destinations. Virgin Holidays Cruises is here to bring the UK a fresh and exciting perspective to cruising. It's about tailor making cruises to suit everyone. Whether you've cruised before and fancy yourself as a bit of a pro, or if you're new to cruises and need a little advice, Virgin Holidays Cruises' Cruise Specialists can help you to find the perfect cruise holiday.

Fantastic Fjords Cruise Deals

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Fantastic Fjords Cruise Deals

There are many Cruise deals for the Norwegian fjords at the moment and now is the time to go! UNESCO has listed the Naeoyfjord and Geirangefjord on its renowned World Heritage List which means that these two Fjords enjoy the same status as the Grand Canyon and the Great Wall of China. The word fjord; means a long, narrow inlet with steep sides or cliffs. They have been formed as a result of glacial activity.

The magic of the Norwegian fjords will stay with you for ever. Unspoilt villages and tiny, working farms. Places worth seeing are Tromso, with its magnificent Arctic cathedral. Quaint wooden buildings and a thriving fish market in Bergen. The Vikingskiphus (Viking Boat Museum) at Stavanger is well worth a visit. Marvel at how these boats used to travel miles in search of new lands to plunder and how little room there was for men to stand, let alone sleep!! And if you wish to see the famous Northern Lights, then Olden is the best place to view them.

So many interesting places and sites to see. A lot of the natural wonders of this region are only visible from a boat. Breath-taking waterfalls, large clear lakes, snow clad mountains and beautiful pine forests. all this in a setting of clean air and light evenings, make the Norwegian fjords a popular tourist destination. Time to look for a cheap cruise now!

Norwegian architecture is unique and so very diverse. There are the renowned Art Nouveau buildings in Alesund and Bryggen, indigenous stave buildings throughout the region, the impressive national opera house in Oslo and try to see the old Hanseatic wharf at Bergen - very photogenic! But nothing comes close to the famous Norway Ice Hotel (also known as The Igloo Hotel) at Alta for amazing architecture!! Everything, but everything in the hotel is made out of ice - even the glasses on the bar! The Hotel has many awards for design and quite rightly so.

Theres no chance of being bored on your cruise either! It isnt all sightseeing! Most cruise operators lay on various activities in the towns and villages en route. Things like walking on a glacier, downhill bike racing, dog sledding, snow mobile rides,a fjord safari and for the more adventurous, white water rafting! There are also opportunities for ice fishing where you cut a hole in the ice, drop in a fishing line and keep your fingers crossed! Dont worry that all this frenzied activity will have your muscles aching and play havoc with your nails, most cruise shops have saunas, spa and beauty salons aboard!

The summer school holiday months of July and August are really the best months to experience the fjords and to look for cruise deals. The coastal regions of Norway have relatively mild winters and cooler summer months so be sure to pack warm clothes!

Facts to Know About Game Design and Development

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Facts to Know About Game Design and Development

The fun new game with a leaderboard, so that you may compare your scores with the remainder of the world. Now, individuals play all types of games. The game itself is very likely to experience several phases of development as it tested. Mobile gaming might be the upcoming gigantic entity after internet explosion.
In the actual estate organization, VR can save clients and brokers time and effort by projecting a digital prospect of an architectural design that's still available just on paper. VR is among the latest topics in technology innovation at the present time. What makes VR so immersive is a simple fact it interacts with numerous senses of the user at precisely the same moment.

Students may design, construct and keep up a local area network (LAN). The majority of the students had never done programming before, it's an entirely new world to many people. Thus, they will be able to link their studies to the place of work. Online education is certainly a thing now and there is an increasing number of courses on the subject of game design and development popping up throughout the area.

Knowing the socio-cultural facet of games is part of that which we study here, Wallace stated. The simple fact that VR is having a huge influence on the gaming business, doesn't indicate a VR headset can or ought to be used for every kind of game. When it has to do with playing, nobody ever feels like they are learning! It's amazing to find out the things that they accomplish and the way that they collaborate. See whether you can discover more examples of game design documents on the internet.

All info you feel ought to be delivered in a cutscene can and ought to be shown in gameplay. Any info delivered in a cutscene should be reinforced during gameplay. In such context nowadays, in most situations, there's data readily available to support decision-making. Additionally, it usually means that not all computer software is being designed for young, white guys instead of the real realities of the marketplaces companies such as Google, Amazon, and Microsoft attempt to serve.

Interface, on the flip side, is an excellent abstraction. Input appears to be easy when you first begin making games. For instance, public variables set to instances throughout the IDE is helpful in rather simple projects but might lead to messy code in the project lifetime. The games industry is definitely where you wish to be in a couple of years time! As an issue of fact, lots of men and women in the games industry don't necessarily play games since there are lots of unique tasks within it.

The purpose of the design phase is to make a design document that may be given to a game development team the real programmers, artists and sound designers and become a working game. My aim is to learn game design from A to Z. The full team should use exactly the same tools. The whole team should use exactly the same version of these tools. My career has been a mixture of commercial and academic pursuits in the business of games.

It's tricky to spot too because as the developer, you get accustomed to the oddities of your design, and you may not have the very same assumptions and issues your players have. This approach to game design and development is a substantial part of engineering culture everywhere these days and we will need to accept that it isn't infallible.

Facts About Data Migration And Re-Engineering Solutions

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Facts About Data Migration And Re-Engineering Solutions

As we all know that data migration testing plays a critical role in the software testing world. There are the different thing that requires the data migration testing procedure.

Most of the clients always worry about how to ensure this process is successful or data is migrated according to the requirements or migrated data works accurately in next updated product. They also ask about the completion of this procedure within the time that has been allotted.

Data Migration is recognized as one of the very challenging initiatives in the software world. Through these kinds of applications, most of the businesses get high profits and brings many businesses advantages like increased productivity, enhanced business management, increased brand value, But with this processing company also suffer from huge risks if the information is not tested properly.

Data Migration Accidents:

Slip to test the Migration Process:

Don't forget this step and save it till the terminating point. Ensure that you are testing it the whole time, overall the procedure.

Keep a check on these meshes, when relegating your notes to new cache formats or computer systems.

DAG Deals in the areas of data migration, technology and data storage with client satisfaction and commitment of products, services with the torment of technology changes.

Semantic Risk: It occurs when the data migration testing is done efficiently but any units present in few areas are not considered, resulting in inconsistency in data. If we have a field called amount in the source database and it is getting migrated to the base amount in the target application.

In both cases, data will have to be migrated from legacy systems based on older method or product versions into the upgraded systems.

Re-engineering demands often surface whenever changes are needed in an existing IT environment in order to address changes related to scalability, functionality, security, and stability of software systems, architectural, performance tuning and technology up gradation, and database tuning.

Think about this, you have an automation framework in place. The project does Agile Development with 2-week sprint cycles. You have to test the new applications that will be delivered to you soon.

Automation is only effective in doing Regression testing or testing the features/pages of an application which are stable enough.
Automation is a program that has written manually.

How will you write and test your automation program when the feature is still not available to test.?

I would be stupid to automate features which are not stable or which are delivered to just get first-hand client feedback. You will just spend more time maintaining such scripts.

Re-engineering and data migration are two major procedures in the IT industries, especially the business field that have decided to automate their manual procedure.

Automating manual procedures can be done either by using off-the-shelf software solutions that match or can be customized to suit the current systems or custom develop own software to meet the demands.

Although migration normally includes identifying data source, consolidating data and acquiring, moving data to the new system and testing the system for live usage, hard work and procedures associated with transformations, quality check, data modelling, re-engineering, profiling, various levels of testing largely vary based on the complexity of the systems under consideration. The aim of the complete procedure is however to a get the new functional system with the same/improved functionality that meets the purpose, without no data loss.

As we know that Migration has a huge impact on quality of the application, a good amount of effort must be put up by the entire team to verify the entire system in all aspects like functionality, performance, security, usability, availability, reliability, compatibility etc., which in turn will ensure successful Migration Testing.