I saw this species of orchid many times, growing among the rocks of the Atlantic Forest, or growing in pots like this one.

The format of the flower is very interesting and reminiscent of a face with a "crazy hair". I do not know why but I always remember the characterization of Gene Simmons as "The Demon" for performances on Kiss :))

Epidendrum Wedding Valley

I awoke this morning to a rather heavy fog and, happily, open water on the lake with only a few icy patches remaining. It is always amazing how quickly this transition happens. As I stood watching, a small group of the beautiful hooded mergansers landed right in front of me, the males immediately beginning the head bobbing mating ritual to the seemingly unimpressed females. My loons should arrive very soon. In the background, Canadian geese were calling from the marshes and the familiar cacophony of the amorous crows signaled that, indeed, spring had arrived...at least for the fauna. It will still be a while before the flora feels the warmth necessary to emerge and make its presence known.

_____________________

As an aside, I want to thank those contacts who took issue with my "fool" characterization yesterday...many replacing it with the far more comforting descriptive of "old" or some derivation thereof. I really appreciate it. So while there may be some question as to being the fool, it appears there is none as to being old. Terrific. Very encouraging. I reckon I have lived long enough to confirm the proverb that, indeed, "there is no fool like an old fool." But we would also do well to recall Harold MacMillan's words very effectively covering the subject: "It has been said that there is no fool like an old fool, except a young fool. But the young fool has first to grow up to be an old fool to realize what a damn fool he was when he was a young fool." British logic at its best...

youtu.be/aIItuMeZb5o

youtu.be/Ba28771pR8o

🎼 "Please don't be offended if I preach to you awhile

Tears are out of place in eyes that were meant to smile

There's a way to make your biggest troubles small

Here's the happy secret of it all.................."

"Look for the silver lining

Whene'er a cloud appears in the blue

Remember, somewhere the sun is shining

And so the right thing to do

Is make it shine for you........................".

A heart full of joy and gladness

Will always banish sadness and strife

So always look for the silver lining

And try to find the sunny side of life...."🎼

( Jerome Kern )

youtu.be/Ba28771pR8o

Jerome David Kern (January 27, 1885 – November 11, 1945) was an American composer of musical theatre and popular music. One of the most important American theatre composers of the early 20th century, he wrote more than 700 songs, used in over 100 stage works, including such classics as "Ol' Man River", "Can't Help Lovin' Dat Man", "A Fine Romance", "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes", "The Song Is You", "All the Things You Are", "The Way You Look Tonight" and "Long Ago (and Far Away)". He collaborated with many of the leading librettists and lyricists of his era, including George Grossmith Jr., Guy Bolton, P. G. Wodehouse, Otto Harbach, Oscar Hammerstein II, Dorothy Fields, Johnny Mercer, Ira Gershwin and Yip Harburg.

A native New Yorker, Kern created dozens of Broadway musicals and Hollywood films in a career that lasted for more than four decades. His musical innovations, such as 4/4 dance rhythms and the employment of syncopation and jazz progressions, built on, rather than rejected, earlier musical theatre tradition. He and his collaborators also employed his melodies to further the action or develop characterization to a greater extent than in the other musicals of his day, creating the model for later musicals. Although dozens of Kern's musicals and musical films were hits, only Show Boat is now regularly revived. Songs from his other shows, however, are still frequently performed and adapted. Many of Kern's songs have been adapted by jazz musicians to become standard tunes.

The Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge is a 15,978 acres (64.66 km2) National Wildlife Refuge located along the eastern coast of Kent County, Delaware, United States, on Delaware Bay. It was established on March 16, 1937, as a refuge and breeding ground for migratory and wintering waterfowl along the Atlantic Flyway. The Refuge was purchased from local land owners with federal duck stamp funds.

The name "Phainopepla" comes from the Greek for "shining robe," a fitting characterization of the shiny, jet-black plumage of the adult male. Native to the Southwest, USA.

Full frame. No crop. No post processing.

41/365

www.catherinesienko.com

The name "Phainopepla" comes from the Greek for "shining robe," a fitting characterization of the shiny, jet-black plumage of the adult male.

Phainopeplas are the only U.S. representative of the family Ptilogonatidae, known as “silky-flycatchers.” They are not related to North American flycatchers; their nearest common ancestors are the waxwings, which also have a glossy, silky look to their plumage.

Philadelphia-born and educated William Glackens was moved in 1895 to New York,where he continued to work as a successful newspaper and magazine illustrator.In 1904 he had given up illustration for painting.Yet his talent for which characterization,gesture,and composition continued to influence his art,as seen in this incident-filled scene of a snowy day in Central Park.Like his Ashcan colleague John Sloan,Glackens became an important advocate for progressive painting in the years after the 1913 Armory Show,heading artist organizations and shaping the important modernist collection of his childhood friend Albert C. Barnes.

Lamentations 2:22 “You [LORD] called as in the day of an appointed feast My terrors (dangers) on every side; And there was no one who escaped or survived in the day of the LORD’S anger. Those I have cared for and brought up with tenderness, My enemy annihilated them.”

Olinda

Pernambuco - Brasil

Founded in 1535, Olinda is one of the oldest Brazilian cities. Despite the lack of characterization of part of its historic houses and the loss of several examples of 16th century architecture with the Dutch attack in the 17th century, Olinda houses dozens of Baroque churches and convents of inestimable historical value, and maintains its colonial urban layout.

Olinda was one of the richest cities in Colonial Brazil, coming to be referred to as a "small Lisbon", given the opulence only comparable to that of the Portuguese Court.

The Phainopepla is a crested songbird of the Southwestern U.S. and Mexico. Here's an interesting tidbit from Cornell Labs: the name comes from the Greek for "shining robe," a fitting characterization of the shiny, jet-black plumage of the adult male here. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument.

"Autumn wins you best by this its mute appeal to sympathy for its decay."

--Robert Browning (English poet and playwright who was noted for irony, characterization, dark humour, social commentary, historical settings and challenging vocabulary and syntax)

This photo was taken in 2013 during my previous Project 365…please visit my album for this “REMASTERED” Project 365 as I revisit each day of 2013 for additional photos to share!!

Three bracketed photos were taken with a handheld Nikon D5200 and combined with Photomatix Pro to create this HDR image. Additional adjustments were made in Photoshop CS6.

"For I know the plans I have for you", declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." ~Jeremiah 29:11

The best way to view my photostream is through Flickriver with the following link: www.flickriver.com/photos/photojourney57/

The name "Phainopepla" comes from the Greek for "shining robe," a fitting characterization of the shiny, jet-black plumage of the adult male. Phainopeplas are the only U.S. representative of the family Ptilogonatidae, known as “silky-flycatchers.” They are not related to North American flycatchers; their nearest common ancestors are the waxwings, which also have a glossy, silky look to their plumage. Phainopeplas are also related to Palmchats, which occur only on the island of Hispaniola.

"Dendrology is the study of wooden plants. It is a branch of botany concerned primarily on trees and shrubs. It is primarily focused on the characterization and identification of woody plants and their taxonomy."

--- Word origin: Greek déndron (“tree”) + logy

Philadelphia-born and educated William Glackens was moved in 1895 to New York,where he continued to work as a successful newspaper and magazine illustrator.In 1904 he had given up illustration for painting.Yet his talent for which characterization,gesture,and composition continued to influence his art,as seen in this incident-filled scene of a snowy day in Central Park.Like his Ashcan colleague John Sloan,Glackens became an important advocate for progressive painting in the years after the 1913 Armory Show,heading artist organizations and shaping the important modernist collection of his childhood friend Albert C. Barnes.

Objects that appear old, alone or left behind make great subjects for photography. These things can possess a sense of visual interest, although people often consider things that are old or broken to be without value. Yet, forgotten and abandoned objects are begging for photographic attention because they evoke mystery. Every old abandoned subject has a story to tell. I always try and capture everything that seems old or solitary, because that's where the characterization in photographic storytelling captivates my interest. I took this at an angle to try and get a good perspective on the object of what I was shooting here. And I try and consider of what I want the viewer to see. And attempt to place emphasis on the important aspect of the scenery. I aimed at It’s details like peeling paint, or wear & tear that could make the object appear forgotten or discarded, especially as it appears in vacinity of this old window.

UTKARSH BHAWAN (HEFA) . G + 10 Storied Central Research & Academic Laboratory Building. Central Research Facility (CRF). Physical Characterization Facility at NIT DGP

Recently visited my alma mater( Doctoral and Masters)

nitdgp.ac.in/acad/promotion

Unusual Ways, 2017

giuliogigante.com

It’s nostalgic, I admit. In effort to show some kind of truth, many landscape photographers throughout the medium’s history have sliced right through the romantic characterization of the West, but for a variety of reasons, I like to finesse it, keep it alive in my own way. It’s an attempt at preservation, or propagating myth, which is kind of the crux of the series in more ways than one.

Bryan Schutmaat

The black swan (Cygnus atratus) is a large waterbird, a species of swan which breeds mainly in the southeast and southwest regions of Australia. Within Australia, the black swan is nomadic, with erratic migration patterns dependent upon climatic conditions. It is a large bird with mostly black plumage and a red bill. It is a monogamous breeder, with both partners sharing incubation and cygnet-rearing duties. Source Wikipedia.

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_swan

Black swan theory :

The black swan theory or theory of black swan events is a metaphor that describes an event that comes as a surprise, has a major effect, and is often inappropriately rationalized after the fact with the benefit of hindsight. The term is based on an ancient saying that presumed black swans did not exist – a saying that became reinterpreted to teach a different lesson after the first European encounter with them.

Taleb's "black swan theory" refers only to unexpected events of large magnitude and consequence and their dominant role in history. Such events, considered extreme outliers, collectively play vastly larger roles than regular occurrences.  More technically, in the scientific monograph "Silent Risk", Taleb mathematically defines the black swan problem as "stemming from the use of degenerate metaprobability"

The phrase "black swan" derives from a Latin expression; its oldest known occurrence is from the 2nd-century Roman poet Juvenal's characterization in his Satire VI of something being "rara avis in terris nigroque simillima cygno" ("a rare bird in the lands and very much like a black swan"). When the phrase was coined, the black swan was presumed not to exist. The importance of the metaphor lies in its analogy to the fragility of any system of thought. A set of conclusions is potentially undone once any of its fundamental postulates is disproved. In this case, the observation of a single black swan would be the undoing of the logic of any system of thought, as well as any reasoning that followed from that underlying logic. Source Wikipedia.

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_swan_theory

Lien vers le texte en langue française

fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Th%C3%A9orie_du_cygne_noir

TD : Sony Alpha 6000 @Pentax-M 200mm f/2.8 prime lens.

1/640 f/8 800ISO. Processed in ACR, converted to jpeg in PS6.

Excerpt from tourismhamilton.com:

Hamilton Enchanted: Work (27): This artwork is a series of tableaus depicting a fictional downtown Hamilton that captures the particular atmosphere of the city. As an illustrator and animator I had fun creating characterizations and situations based on the area where each box resides; adding playful and fantastical elements inspired by nearby businesses, amenities and monuments. The designs merge the people and environments of the past with the present and imaginary, providing them a vibrant space to coexist. I hope they create experiences that can be shared with friends and family while also providing a space to strangers to laugh together.

Well, yes and no. The writing of the author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and the characterizations given to the protagonist by the various actors to have played the role down the years has often been exceptional... but it's still just a made up drama. I'm not being FictionalDetectivePhobic.

Hello there. Relevant comments welcome but please do NOT post any link(s). All my images are my own original work, under my copyright, with all rights reserved. You need my permission to use any image for ANY purpose.

Copyright infringement is theft.

Salinder is committee to continuing his Nenets cultural traditions. He uses natural materials found in the Yamalo-Nenets region of Northern Siberia. The artist states that the process of working and the materials themselves led his to the themes and forms of his work, This sculpture is typical of Salinder’s animated gestural quality, rich characterization and detailed rendering.

"Autumn wins you best by this its mute appeal to sympathy for its decay."

-- Robert Browning (English poet and playwright whose dramatic monologues put him high among the Victorian poets and who was most noted for irony, characterization, dark humour, social commentary, historical settings and challenging vocabulary and syntax)

-- Technical Information (or Nerdy Stuff) --

‧ Camera - Nikon D7200 (handheld)

‧ Lens – Nikkor 18-300mm Zoom

‧ ISO – 500

‧ Aperture – f/9

‧ Exposure – 1/125 second

‧ Focal Length – 48mm

The original RAW file was processed with Adobe Camera Raw and final adjustments were made with Photoshop CS6.

"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." ~Jeremiah 29:11

The best way to view my photostream is through Flickriver with the following link: www.flickriver.com/photos/photojourney57/

Objects that appear old, alone or left behind make great subjects for photography. These things can possess a sense of visual interest, although people often consider things that are old or broken to be without value. Yet, forgotten and abandoned objects are begging for photographic attention because they evoke mystery. Every old abandoned subject has a story to tell. I always try and capture everything that seems old or solitary, because that's where the characterization in photographic storytelling captivates my interest. I took this at an angle to try and get a good perspective on the object of what I was shooting here. And I try and consider of what I want the viewer to see. And attempt to place emphasis on the important aspect of the scenery. I aimed at It’s details like peeling paint, or wear & tear that could make the object appear forgotten or discarded, especially as it appears in vacinity of this old window.

Francis William Edmond's All Talk and No Work features two figures,one white and one African American,who appear to be mid-conversation outside a barn.Although both wear tattered clothing and neither is engaged in productive work,unequal power dynamics are suggested.Leaning lazily on a pitchfork,the white farmer towers over the black figure,presumably his laborer,who holds an empty basket and gestures with his other hand.

This genre evokes the work of William Sidney Mount whose farmyard subjects and anecdotal characterizations of yeomen and African Americans were highly popular with New York audiences. Edmond's treatment of the black is neither idealized in Mount's manner nor caricatured in works by other genre artists,but the painting's enigmatic visual clues might be interpreted as an attempt to justify or obscure the racism of the era.

Forms of Gotham

Of all the characters in the collection, Scarecrow takes inspiration from the most sources. I particularly like his characterization, inspired by the Pale Man from Pan's labyrinth, from which he derives his blind monstrous head. This coupled with his gas mask, which rips forth from his mouth, gives him an exceptionally creepy appearance.

Brickworld Chicago 2016

Character Creation

Harvey Bullock (/ˈbʊlək/) is a fictional detective appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics, commonly in association with the superhero Batman.

The character first appeared in Detective Comics #441 (June 1974) and was created by Archie Goodwin and Howard Chaykin.

In animation, he appeared throughout the DC Animated Universe, voiced by Robert Costanzo. He debuted in live-action in 2014 on Fox's television series Gotham, portrayed by Donal Logue.

Publication history

There is some ambiguity concerning the character's origins. Writer Doug Moench and artist Don Newton introduced Harvey Bullock in Batman #361 (July 1983) as a device to resolve the ongoing plotline with Gotham City's corrupt mayor Hamilton Hill, and subsequent Who's Who in the DC Universe entries acknowledged this as the new Bullock's first appearance.

However, in later years Batman fans began pointing out that a "Lt. Bullock" appeared in three panels of Detective Comics #441 (1974), written by Archie Goodwin, pencilled by Howard Chaykin, and published almost a decade before.

Moench admitted that he must have read this comic because he is an Archie Goodwin fan, but denied that Harvey Bullock is the same character. He argued that it is unlikely that he drew on Goodwin's Lt. Bullock even unconsciously, since there are discrepancies of both personality and continuity between his character and Goodwin's, and he distinctly remembers taking the name "Bullock" from guitarist Hiram Bullock.

Archie Goodwin is legally Harvey Bullock's sole creator; Moench said he decided not to contest this because he did not want to make a case against Goodwin's widow Anne Goodwin, whom he considers a friend.

Following the conclusion of the Hamilton Hill storyline, Moench decided he enjoyed writing Harvey Bullock enough to keep him on as a supporting character, which necessitated some softening of his original characterization as a corrupt cop.

Bullock was one of several Batman supporting cast members swept out of the Batman family of titles when Denny O'Neil became the Batman editor in 1986, but in 1987 writer Paul Kupperberg brought him into the Vigilante cast. Kupperberg recalled, "Harvey Bullock was a character very much in my wheelhouse, a wise-cracking loudmouth with a Brooklyn accent and a problem with authority, although he wasn't originally intended to be a permanent member of the Vigilante cast.

He was brought in for a guest-shot, as a character to help Vigilante's handler, Harry Stein, grease the wheels in Gotham City for them on whatever case they were on. I had fun writing him, and the interaction between Harvey and Harry Stein, another slob with his own way of doing things, clicked. I don't think they were using him much, if at all, in the Batman books by then, so we got permission from the Bat-office to have the character on semi-permanent loan for Vigilante and its successor title, Checkmate."

Fictional Character History

Harvey Bullock was named after a real-life television writer. Before the Crisis on Infinite Earths story line, Bullock was originally a corrupted detective. He was ordered by Mayor Hamilton Hill to sabotage Commissioner James Gordon’s career.

He would do so by pretending to be clumsy and ruining their plans on a stake. When Bullock accidentally gave Gordon a heart-attack, it changed Bullock. He turned over a new leaf and tried his best to make up for what he did.

Bullock later became a Bishop in the Checkmate Organization.

Origin – Post-Crisis

After Crisis on Infinite Earths, Harvey Bullock once again became a corrupt cop. He gained a reputation for taking bribes, police brutality, and ties to organized crimes, though his co-workers still believed him to be a good cop.

However, Bullock was very loyal to Commissioner Gordon from the very beginning, and helped Gordon foil the plans of many well-known criminals in Gotham City. Whenever Batman was not around, Bullock would take the role of bad cop to intimidate and threaten those he needed information from. His previous partner on the Gotham Police Department was Renee Montoya.

Later, after Commissioner Gordon is shot three times in the back, it is discovered that Gordon's shooter was formerly in the Chicago mob and had a grudge against Gordon. However, the GCPD lack the evidence to convict Gordon's shooter. Bullock gives up the location of Commissioner Gordon's shooter to the mafia, leading to the shooter's murder. After this event, Bullock resigned from the GCPD and occasionally worked as a private detective.

Batman: Cataclysm

In the Batman: Cataclysm story line, Bullock is confronting Anarky when an earthquake strikes. Both men survive but Harvey is severely injured, having had his arm impaled by a metal tube.

Despite this he is able to make it back to Gotham's police headquarters and rescue James Gordon from the rubble of his own office. Gotham city is later shut down.

During No Man's Land Bullock, along with Renee Montoya, decide to stay behind to assist Gordon.

One Year Later

After Infinite Crisis' part of the One Year Later story line, Bullock was allowed to rejoin the GCPD police force under the condition that he is not to make one mistake this time. Batman and Bullock have made peace and they both agreed to give each other a second chance.

Batman Beyond

In the future, Bullock's legacy lives on through his grandson.

⚡ Happy 🎯 Heroclix 💫 Friday! 👽

_____________________________

A year of the shows and performers of the Bijou Planks Theater.

Secret Identity: N/A

Publisher: DC

First appearance: As Lieutenant Bullock: Detective Comics #441 (June 1974)

As Detective Harvey Bullock: Batman #361 (July 1983)

Created by:

As Lieutenant Bullock:

Archie Goodwin (writer)

Howard Chaykin (artist)

As Detective Harvey Bullock:

Doug Moench (writer)

Don Newton (artist)

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       1928 Packard 443 Roadster

It is a very easy to argue the case that Packard’s glory days were in the late 1920’s and through the 1930’s. During this time, the famed Detroit automaker was building some of the finest automobiles on the market. The over-engineered nature of the chassis earned a reputation of exceptional reliability. Packard also offered a staggering array of body, chassis and engine combinations that could be tailored to suit virtually any client. And for their most discerning clientele, a chassis could be fitted with a bespoke body by any one of twenty custom body builders at their disposal. Packards of this era were grand and imposing and considered by many to be the very finest automobiles of their time.

The model 443 of 1928 was one of the most impressively grand automobiles of its day. It rode on an immense 143” wheelbase regardless of body style, giving it a sense of presence that few could match. Motivation was courtesy of a nearly silent straight-eight that displaced 383 cubic inches, and produced an understressed 109 horsepower and a steady wave of torque. As with other Packards of this period, the 443 was not an intimidating car to drive. Packard transmissions are among the easiest to use, the brakes are powerful, and road manners are excellent. The massive 443 has a tendency to shrink around the driver once out on the road. These truly are spectacular automobiles in every sense.

Source: hymanltd.com/vehicles/5499-1928-packard-443-roadster/

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Louise Brooks (American actress)

Born  November 14, 1906 · Cherryvale, Kansas, USA

Died  August 8, 1985 · Rochester, New York, USA (heart attack)

Birth name  Mary Louise Brooks

Nicknames

Lulu

Brooksie

Scrubbie

Height  5′ 2″ (1.57 m)

Louise Brooks was one of the most fascinating personalities of Hollywood, always being compared with her most important characterization as protagonist: Lulu in Georg Wilhelm Pabst's Pandora's Box (1929). Along with her beauty and talent she had an independent streak and refused to accept the restrictive role that women had in American society, and pretty much went her own way, which caused quite a bit of controversy. Not everyone found her rebellious nature off-putting, though; in 1926 she was the inspiration for the comic heroine Dixie Dugan and in the zenith of her fame for Valentina of Guido Crepax. She started her career as a dancer in the Ziegfeld Follies on Broadway, and Hollywood soon came calling. She didn't care for the Hollywood scene at all, though, and traveled to Europe, where she made her most memorable films. Her dissatisfaction with Hollywood in general led her to quit films altogether in 1938; she was at the peak of her career, but just gave it all up.

She also became an accomplished writer, authoring a number of books, including her autobiography. On August 8, 1985, Louise died of a heart attack in Rochester, New York in 1985. She was 78 years old.

Source - IMDb Mini Biography By: Volker Boehm

* Portrait of Louise Brooks courtesy of Dr. Macro's High Quality Scans

* Car recorded at the Geneva Concours d’Elegance - 2023

THIS ARTWORK IS COPYRIGHTED:

U.S. copyright law protects creators of original, creative works from having their intellectual property used by others. Copyright infringement is the reproduction, distribution, or alteration of a creative work without the owner’s permission. Common examples of copyright infringement against you might include:

• Uploading your photos to the internet,

• Stealing licensed software from your website,

• Plagiarizing your written text, and

• Using substantial parts of your song in a new recording without attributing you.

Excerpt from tourismhamilton.com:

Hamilton Enchanted: Food (29) by Charlit Floriano: This artwork is a series of tableaus depicting a fictional downtown Hamilton that captures the particular atmosphere of the city. As an illustrator and animator I had fun creating characterizations and situations based on the area where each box resides; adding playful and fantastical elements inspired by nearby businesses, amenities and monuments. The designs merge the people and environments of the past with the present and imaginary, providing them a vibrant space to coexist. I hope they create experiences that can be shared with friends and family while also providing a space for strangers to laugh together.

Character Creation

The Shade (Richard Swift) is a comic book character developed in the 1940s for National Comics, first appearing in the pages of Flash Comics in a story titled "The Man Who Commanded the Night", scripted by Gardner Fox and illustrated by Hal Sharp.

Debuting as a villain, the Shade was best known for fighting against two generations of superheroes, most notably the Golden Age and Silver Age versions of the Flash.

He eventually became a mentor for Jack Knight, the son of the Golden Age Starman, Ted Knight, a hero the Shade had also fought.

Though portrayed in Silver Age comics as a thief with a cane that could manipulate shadows, the character was reinvented in 1994 as a morally ambiguous Victorian-era immortal who gained the ability to manipulate shadows and immortality from an unexplained mystical event.

In 2009, the Shade was ranked as IGN's 89th-greatest villain of all time.

The Shade appeared as a major character from the season 1 finale onwards in Stargirl, played by Jonathan Cake

Publication history

The Shade first appeared in Flash Comics #33 (September 1942), and was created by Gardner Fox and Harold Sharp.

Shade received a solo series in late 2011, written by Robinson and drawn by Cully Hamner, Darwyn Cooke, Javier Pulido, and others. It deals with Shade and his descendants, flashing back to various points in his life as he travels the globe trying to find who is behind a plot to kill him.

Fictional Character History

Origin

Born and raised in London, England in the early 1800s, Richard Swift was a wealthy importer. In the course of his business he came into contact with Simon Culp, who hired Swift to import a lion for him. The pair became friends while awaiting the arrival of the lion. It was soon revealed that Culp was merely using Swift in an effort to enact an arcane ritual; he captured Swift and attempted to use him as a sacrifice to the goddess Scathach. However, for reasons unknown, Swift was gifted with the powers that Culp had intended only for himself. The resultant mystical occurrence resulted in the deaths of over a hundred people. Bereft of all memories of who he had been, Swift departed his old life and was reborn as the Shade. Immediately after the events that gave him his powers, the disoriented Shade was taken in by Piers Ludlow, who attempted to take advantage of Shade's state by framing him for murder. Shade lashed out instinctively with his powers, making an enemy of the Ludlow family when he killed almost the entire family. Following this he embarked on a career of questionable legality, exploring the world and occasionally taking work as an assassin.

Golden Age

In his original Golden Age appearances, the Shade was portrayed as a villainous character. Primarily a thief, he utilized a cane that allowed him to manipulate shadows. He retained this characterization throughout the Golden, Silver and Bronze Ages.

Modern Age

Following the Crisis on Infinite Earths, Shade remained a villain for a few more years. Following Zero Hour his character was significantly rewritten. He was re-imagined as an immortal of Victorian extraction, and given a more morally ambiguous, anti-heroic bent. Much of his previous villainy was retconned as the influence of Culp. This version of the character no longer needed the magical cane to manipulate shadows, this trait became inherent.

Rebirth

Following the universal reboot, the powers of the Darklands, previously only semi-sentient, became fully sentient and autonomous. Shade himself became significantly less competent.

Flash of Two Worlds

Working with the Fiddler and the Thinker, Shade takes part in shifting Keystone City out of phase, trapping the inhabitants and causing the rest of the world to forget the city ever existed. They use this power to loot the city with impunity. They are confronted by both Jay Garrick and Barry Allen, and the heroes eventually defeat the Shade and his companions.

Starman

Shade first comes into contact with Starman when he abducts the hero's father, Ted Knight, at the behest of Mist. He soon turns against Mist and sides with Starman, later forming close ties with the O'Dare family, particularly Matt O'Dare. During their association Shade frequently engages in heroic behaviour to assist Jack and Matt. At one point he agrees to selflessly sell his soul to save those trapped in a cursed poster. Around this time he makes an enemy of Neron by refusing to accept the demon's deal to increase his own power. During the events of the Godwave his powers are completely unaffected by the event that depowered most powered individuals. Slowly but surely Culp is able to take control of Shade's body, culminating in an attempt to destroy Opal City, carried out with the sole intention of destroying the city that Shade loves. Joining Culp's efforts are Neron, one of the last remaining Ludlows, and Mist's daughter. Shade is able to expel Culp, but in so doing loses his powers. Despite this, he is able to use a shadow demon to engage in a battle of wills with Culp, which he ultimately wins. Stripping Culp of his powers and adding them to his own, Shade is victorious.

Infinite Crisis

Still in Opal City and acting as the city's heroic, if cynical, protector, Shade spends the Crisis defending the city and its inhabitants.

Cry For Justice

Shade tells Jay Garrick of Prometheus' plan to distract the heroes from his master plan, and travels with the hero to the Watchtower. There, they encounter Prometheus, who is attempting to flee the ship. As he is not a hero, Prometheus has no file on how to defeat Shade, and is confounded by how to deal with him. Donna Troy takes the opportunity to attack Prometheus and beats him nearly to death. Shade prevents her from killing the villain. He later aids Green Arrow in travelling to Prometheus' lair, where Green Arrow kills the villain.

Blackest Night

Now in a relationship with Hope O'Dare, Shade is attacked by Black Lantern David Knight. Due to his immortality, Shade is not killed when Knight rips his heart from his chest, and is able to resist the Black Lantern ring that attempts to attach itself to him. He traps Knight in the Darklands when Knight threatens to kill Jack and O'Dare. Using his own heart he traps Knight and banishes him permanently. He is found soon afterwards by Barry Allen and Hal Jordan, who ask for transportation to the Ghost Zone. He agrees to help, and they locate the rotting body of Prometheus in the Ghost Zone.

Brightest Day

Shade is sought by Jay Garrick, Doctor Mid-Nite, Sebastian Faust, and Wildcat, all of whom seek his assistance in locating Obsidian. He is found in his home in a comatose state, apparently placed there by the Starheart-possessed Obsidian, who wanted to stop Shade from revealing "secrets". Soon afterwards Shade is captured by Eclipso, who brainwashes him. At the behest of Saint Walker he is sought and rescued by Starman and Atom, who manage to free him of the brainwashing. He turns on his erstwhile captor, helping the heroes defeat Eclipso.

The Shade

Attacked at his home in Opal City, Shade sets off on a world-spanning quest to discover the origin of the assassination attempt. At the same time he explores his past, and encounters numerous figures that have been important in his long life, as well as exploring the extent of his own powers. It eventually becomes clear that the assassination was ordered by a member of his own family, Dudley, Lord Caldecott, acting in concert with an ancient cult. The cult accidentally unleashes ancient godlike beings on London, whom Shade is able to defeat by trapping them in a pocket dimension and transporting them back to their home dimension.

The Speed of Darkness

As Shade grows increasingly worried that he will return to his life of crime and jeopardize his relationship with Hope, his shadow powers take it upon themselves to begin committing crimes on his behalf. When this is discovered by Hope, who believes that Shade has relapsed, the shadows kidnap and brainwash her, and entrap Shade in the Darklands. He is able to push some shadow into Central City, where it attracts the attention of Kid Flash and the Flash, who come to his aid. They help him rescue Hope and regain control of the Darklands.

Powers and Abilities

Shade is the strongest known channeller of the shadow powers of the Darklands, a dimension of sentient darkness that he can channel to a variety of effects. He can also use this dimension to teleport himself and others, with no known limits to the distance he can travel; it can also be used to travel through time. He is functionally immortal and practically indestructible. He is intelligent and resourceful.

Abilities

Immortality

Darkness Manipulation

Time Manipulation

Teleportation

⚡ Happy 🎯 Heroclix 💫 Friday! 👽

_____________________________

A year of the shows and performers of the Bijou Planks Theater.

Secret Identity: Richard Swift

Publisher: DC

First appearance: Flash Comics #33 (September 1942)

Created by: Gardner Fox (Writer)

Harold Wilson Sharp (Artist)

First appearance cover:

www.flickr.com/photos/paprihaven/49370020116/

Spock and Mini Spock give it two Vulcan Salutes (the equivalent of two thumbs up for you Terrans!)!

This is not your momma's Star Trek! But that is a good thing! Never before has Star Trek provided so many nail biting, edge of your seat moments! It is much hipper and somewhat more believeable than the typical Trek of old, and has a much more frenetic pace. However, the filmmakers never lose track of what made the original Trek work so well - the characters!

The characterizations here are all very faithful and strong. All of the main characters get their moment(s) in the spotlight.

Not only is this movie much more action packed and exciting than ye olde Trek, it's a lot funnier too, with lots of great character driven humor. McCoy and Scotty in particular are hilarious and the actors playing them deserve special reckognition for so sucessfully capturing the essence of these characters. Of course, it's all about Kirk and Spock and here again, both actors do an excellent job with these Sci Fi icons. Chris Pine in particular does a great job of giving us a Kirk who still seems like Kirk without doing a cheesy Shatner impersonation. He owns the character and makes it his own, as does Zachary Quinto as Spock. Eric Bana's villian, Nero is quite excellent, I only wish we had seen a bit more of him. Leonard Nimoy's appearances in the film are all fantastic and serve the purpose of passing the torch quite well. You'll want to cheer when he first shows up!

Continuity hounds should not allow themselves to be thrown or discouraged by events that seem at odds with established Trek lore, if you hang in there, all will be explained, just sit back and enjoy the ride.There are a few minor things that seem like plot holes to me, but they didn't really detract from my enjoyment of the movie and I don't think most people will notice them, they'll be too busy having a good time!

The designs of everything in the film harkens back to what made the original series so cool, but succesfully purges them of their dated, somewhat silly elements.

This is hardly the best film ever made, but it is a great tribute to a Sci Fi classic which constantly entertains and leaves you begging for more. It is the best reboot/reimagining of something I've ever seen. It's one hell of an origin story for this legendary crew, but it is nothing less than what such classic characters deserve.

if this movie doesn't re-energize the Trek franchise, then frankly NOTHING ever will. In fact I suspect it will re-energine the entire sci-fi space opera genre in general.

May the new Trek franchise Live Long and Prosper!

NOTE: I have a spoiler-filled review as well which is only visible to people who are marked as friends, If I haven't marked you as a friend yet and you'd like to check it out, send me a Flickr e-mail!

Ho scattato questa foto mentre stava piovendo ... si sotto l'ombrello !

Una vista più vasta del paesaggio !

** I Cipressi in Toscana :

La sua inconfondibile chioma stretta e affusolata con terminale a punta come una lancia, ha contribuito alla caratterizzazione del paesaggio toscano: lo si trova dalla costa tirrenica alle morbide colline interne. Importato con molta probabilità dapprima durante la colonizzazione Fenicia e Greca, e poi dagli Etruschi.

È un albero sempreverde diffuso in tutte le regioni del mediterraneo medio-orientale dove nasce e cresce spontaneamente, dall’Iran all’Egitto, passando per la Grecia. Il tronco retto è di colore grigio-brunastro può raggiungere anche i 25 mt. di altezza. Le foglie sono piccolissime di colore verde cupo e squamiformi tanto da coprire interamente i rametti cilindrici.

----

I took this picture while it was raining ... under the umbrella!

A wider view of the landscape!

** The Cypresses in Tuscany:

Its unmistakable narrow, tapered jaw with a pointed end like a spear contributes to the characterization of the Tuscan landscape: it is located from the Tyrrhenian coast to the soft inner hills. Imported with great probability first during Phoenician and Greek colonization, and then by the Etruscans.

It is an evergreen tree spread in all the regions of the Middle East where it originates and grows spontaneously, from Iran to Egypt, passing through Greece. The straight trunk is grayish-brown can reach up to 25 mt. Of height. The leaves are tiny, dark green and squamiform so as to completely cover the cylindrical ramps.

Suspended Animation Classic #241

Originally published August 8, 1993 (#33)

(Dates are approximate)

The Punisher Summer Special

By Michael Vance

Sing this to “My Favorite Things” from “The Sound of Music”.

“Bloodbaths and murder and violent injustice; hatred and despair and lawless indifference; bruises and beatings and gut-wrenching screams. These are a few of his favorite things.”

That “his” is The Punisher, a judge, jury, and executioner whose knee-jerk response to crime is usually to the groin. He wears a big, white skull with elongated teeth on his black shirt. He scowls. And he’s a very popular comic book psychopath.

But his killing is justified, after all. His wife and children were murdered by the mob!

In “The Punisher’s Summer Special” he avenges those murders by killing and killing and killing. A bunch of bad guys who use real bullets in paintball games (an admitted nice twist). Teenagers who steal a car. A man selling kiddie porn. But Punisher and victims seem equally rotten.

In his regular series, The Punisher enlists Daredevil and The Ghost Rider to track down blood thieves. Pure blood brings a high market price these days. These “vampires” suck all of it from their victims. But they’re so unbelievable, their vampiric deaths seem less jarring somehow.

Setting aside content, both art and (sparse) writing are above average on “The Punisher” books. (There are some timing and dialogue placement problems in the “Summer Special”). As straight, thoughtless adventure, they are entertaining. But don’t expect characterization or intricate plot twists. Fans of blow-‘em up movies and books are looking for thrills, not philosophy.

But there, Horatio, is the rub. The philosophy behind “The Punisher” stinks. Vigilantes are not heroes. Obsession makes for poor Judges. And mob violence is not jury justice.

For those who prefer raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens, don’t despair. There is literature for you.

For Punishers, there’s napalm on roses and bear traps on kittens.

Recommended grudgingly.

“The Punisher Summer Special” #3/$2.50, 40 pages/various writers and artists//”The Punisher War Journal” #58/$1.75, 22 pages, Chuck Dixon, writer; Gary Kwapisz, artist/both from Marvel Comics/available everywhere

Mediaone Global Entertainment Limited presents

A film by Majestic Multimedia Limited

Preface

Chikku Bhukku

Mediaone Global Entertainment Limited presents a film by Majestic Multimedia Limited, which has set new standards for Tamil film production with their recent blockbuster “Dhaam Dhoom” They have aimed to reach even higher with their forthcoming film “Chikku Bukku”

The film stars Aarya, who did a stunning performance in “Naan Kadavul”. Shriya Saran who has done a “never before” performance in this film. Debutante Preetika has a very important role in the film and she is the younger sister of Bollywood star Amrita Rao.

K. Manigandan, who was the Associate Director to Jeeva for 12B, Ullam Ketkumme and Unnale Unnale, took over and successfully completed Dhaam Dhoom, after the untimely demise of Jeeva. Media One Global Entertainment Limited, who was impressed with Manigandan in Dhaam Dhoom, recommended him to Direct Chikku Bukku.

The film has completed shooting and the Audio is released on Aug 13th 2010. The audio rights have been acquired by Think Music. After their recent mega budget film Endhiran , Chikku Bukku will be their next consecutive audio release by Think Music.

Arya with his earlier performance in Varudu has created a brand for himself with the telugu audience, Shriya who’s an leading Actress in the Telugu, considering the kind of response that these lead actors hold, the film will release in Tamil and Telugu.

Most of the technicians who had worked with Jeeva are part of the Chikku Bukku team. Camera was handled by R.B. Gurudhev, Dialogues were written by S.Ramakrishnan, and lyrics were done by Padmashree.Valee / Pa.Vijay and music by Colonial Cousins Hari and lesle, Additional song and

Background score was done by Pravin Mani while Rekha Chinni Prakash and Dinesh did the choreography. The costumes were handled by V.Sai and Deepali Noor.

The film is a Romantic travelogue, which starts in London and ends in karaikudi. The shooting took place in around trendy areas of London, scenic locales of chikmagalur, Madikeri and traditional houses of Karaikudi.

The lead pair Aarya and Shriya is not new to the fraternity. Casting them was so fresh and lively as the script demanded stars with individual stardom coming together for the very first time, debutante starlet Preetika, Apparently she is the younger sister of bollywood star Amrita Rao. The draft of the film revolves around these three characters’. Their characterizations are portrayed so appealing, all the stars gel into their respective roles. I would consider my crew as greatest strength, casting of a script makes the fifty per of the film happen, Initially shaping up Aarya from his previous roles portrayed by him to a Next door boy look didn’t happen in a fraction, such as shreya who has been doing characters’ of colors fitted in perfectly for their characterizations.

Aarya and Shriya shaped themselves into the draft and did everything possible for the characters. Aarya was such a positive person, he carried his role so sensibly, a prankster in real life, delivered his expressions so easily, all the actors lived into their characterizations. We also agree on arguments which happened on the sets, but all of it was only a creative process rather than destructive arguments. Aarya, Shriya, Preethika all three were so determined that they would take up rehearsals before every shots, on the process it paved wave to explore their characters’ through their acting.

The music done by Colonial Cousins Hari & lesle. Hariharan the legendary singer has once again composed for ChikkuBhukku, Am sure the inseparable pair would do justice to a romantic feel good film. They have scored feet taping numbers, which has an equal mixture of melody and rap. We have experimented on different voices for our tracks; especially recording with Wadali brothers the desi sensational singers of Punjab for the first time in a filmic score was amazing. We needed fresh and peppy voices for this romantic flick the singers have sung with no influence from the past work. All the numbers turned out to be experimental, two other rappers and singers have made their debutante song in the film, the music which inspired me from the past as an influence thought the film.

Two additional songs and background score are being composed by Pravin Mani, who has been a longtime associate to A.R.Rahaman and who has worked with A.R.Rahman in Ghazini , Slum dog millionaire and Endhiran. Both the composers have contributed to the Romantic feel of the film and their compositions are inseparable.

The Director of Photography was R.B.Gurudhev the visualizer of Chikkubhukku. Guru’s senses of colors are always particular; he colors a frame depending on the mood and the phase of the scene in the draft. His brilliance in framing an artist moulds them into the roots of their character. A visual crafts men, has tuned my ideas into a visual story.

A romantic travelogue the film starts in London and ends in Karaikudi, Not only the film is based on a journey the process of making was itself a journey to many exotic locations. Scenic locales of Chikmangalore, Madikeri, Mandalpet, Kudremug of Karnataka, and splendorous locations in London. The shooting took place in around trendy areas of London, St, paul’s cathedral, westminister, Cannary warf, Piccadilly Circus etc and traditional houses of Karaikudi. We have shot in many hill stations where it was the first ever time a camera could be placed.

The diversity between spectacular locations in London, Rain forests near exotic western Ghats in Karnataka and monumental Karaikudi would give a new look and grandeur to Chikku Bukku

Adding to the film, website is also launched. For the audience to know more about the film.

You can now log on to www.chikkubhukkuthemovie.com

Chikku Bhukku, a nostalgic clang of a train, is bound to give its viewers, a new Romantic Journey, which would be enjoyed by one and all.

Song-1: Chikku Bukku…

Lyric: Pa.VIJAY

Singers: Benny dayal

Rahul nambiyar

Maya, Sree Charan

Song-2: Oru Nila..

Lyric: Valee

Singers: Shankar mahadevan

Chandrayee Battacharya

Uma Padmanabhan

Song-3: Engengeyo…

Lyric: Pa. VIJAY

Singers: Benny Dayal

Lavanya

Song-4: Smile…

Composer: Pravin mani

Lyric: Pa.Vijay

Singers: Suchith suresan

Song-5: Thooral Nindralum…

Lyric: Valee

Singers: Hariharan

Wadali Brothers

Song-6: Vizhi Oru Paadhi…

Lyric: Valee

Singers: Adnan sami

Sujatha

Song-7: Adi saarale…

Composer: Pravin mani

Lyric: Pa.Vijay

Singers: Pradeep Vijay

Suvi

www.photosfromonhigh.com Albany Nanotech Fuller Road Albany NY CEG Center for economic growth Tech Valley TAC Tour Andover Controls 1650 west Crosby Road Carrolton Texas Schneider electric 43-45 boulevard Franklin Roosevelt 92500 Rueil-Malmaison-France Key Bank AMD Advanced Micro devices Sunnyvale Ca. California aerial photos photographer Andover Massachusetts Ma. aerial photos Tepperman Ray associates Andover massachusetts Nanotech Clean Rooms

Albany Nanotech Albany Nanotech Albany Nanotech Albany nanotech Albany Nanotech Albany Nanotech AMD AMD AMD AMD AMD AMD Advanced Micro devices Advanced micro devices Advanced micro devices New York new york New york new York New York aerial photos architectural photos www.photosfromonhigh.com/sematech.htm The College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering of the University at Albany is the first college in the world dedicated to research, development, education, and deployment in the emerging disciplines of nanoscience, nanoengineering, nanobioscience, and nanoeconomics. CNSE's Albany NanoTech Complex – a $4.5 billion megaplex that has attracted over 250 global corporate partners – is the most advanced research complex at any university in the world.

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Posted: May 28, 2009

Job fair to Help M+W Zander fill 40 project management positions in new chip facility

(Nanowerk News) The College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering ("CNSE") of the University at Albany today announced plans to host a Job Fair to assist M+W Zander in building its project management team to support the construction of GlobalFoundries' computer chip manufacturing facility in Malta.

The Job Fair, to be held on Wednesday, June 10 from 5 to 8 p.m. at CNSE's Albany NanoTech Complex, will help recruit candidates for 40 high-tech design and construction management positions, including electrical and mechanical designers, engineers and estimators; construction and design project managers and coordinators; architectural project managers, planners and interns; and, accounting, purchasing, document control and administrative personnel. The positions carry salaries that range from $40,000 to more than $100,000 annually.

Officials from M+W Zander will be on hand to accept resumes and conduct initial interviews on site, with representatives of CNSE also providing assistance at the event. This marks the fifth high-tech job fair to be held at CNSE in just the past three years, with previous events in May 2006, January 2007, September 2007 and October 2008.

Candidates interested in attending and interviewing at the Job Fair are encouraged to pre-register online by visiting cnse.albany.edu/events/jobfair2009.html.

Assembly Majority Leader Ron Canestrari said, "That still another Job Fair is necessary to fill these high-tech positions is a great testament to the investments made in the rapidly growing nanotechnology sector in the Capital Region and New York State. I hope local residents will take full advantage of this opportunity to learn more about exciting careers in the nanotechnology industry."

Assemblyman John J. McEneny said, "The investments in nanotechnology are once again paying dividends in the form of exciting new high-tech career opportunities for residents of Albany and the Capital Region. It is an enormous source of pride to know that New York State is leading the worldwide nanotechnology revolution, which is creating new jobs and attracting new investments."

Rick Whitney, President and CEO of M+W Zander U.S. Operations said, "It is a pleasure to work in partnership with the UAlbany NanoCollege, the world leader in nanotechnology education, research and development, as M+W Zander builds its construction management team to support GlobalFoundries' world-class computer chip manufacturing facility at the Luther Forest Technology Campus. As a company that works on high-tech projects and facilities around the world, there is no question that the Capital Region and New York are recognized globally as the place to be for nanotechnology."

Dr. Alain E. Kaloyeros, Senior Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of CNSE, said, "With the vision, leadership and support of Speaker Silver, Assembly Majority Leader Canestrari, Assemblyman McEneny and the New York State Assembly, M+W Zander has become a valuable partner in building high-tech facilities that are critical to New York's global leadership in nanotechnology education, research and development, and economic outreach. The UAlbany NanoCollege is pleased to host this Job Fair, which will provide exciting career opportunities for local residents, and ensure that M+W Zander has a highly skilled management team in place to build GlobalFoundries' state-of-the-art computer chip manufacturing plant."

With headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany, M+W Zander is one of the world's foremost companies for the design and construction of high-tech buildings and cleanroom facilities for research and development, pilot manufacturing, manufacturing, and assembly and testing operations. M+W Zander's Northeastern U.S. headquarters is located at the Watervliet Arsenal, where it employs more than 250 people.

About M+W Zander

The M+W Zander Group offers its customers worldwide integrated life-cycle solutions for high-tech production plants and infrastructure complexes including all necessary service and modernization support. The customer base focuses primarily on leading electronics, photovoltaic, pharmaceutical, chemical, automobile and communication companies, as well as research institutes and universities. The company ranks among the market leaders in various market sectors which include semiconductors, photo-voltaics and pharmaceuticals. MWZ Group GmbH, Stuttgart, manages the global activities of the group as a holding company. The group has three main divisions based on Facility Solutions, Process Solutions and Product Solutions which together generated 2008 revenues of $2.32 billion with a workforce of approximately 4,500.

Source: CNSE

Critical evaluation of the finished piece:

In general I am quite happy with the way this animation turned out, but there are still issues that need a lot of attention. One of these issues is the jagged movement of the character’s arms throughout the entire animation; this is visible even more intensely towards the end and it is an issue related to the rotations of the joints that I didn’t really have time anymore to address. Another more technical issue regarding this animation is related to the lip sync itself – there are moments when the ‘up-down’ positions of the jaw and the ‘open-close’ shapes for the mouth change too rapidly so the movement of the mouth doesn’t look too convincing and it feels rushed. From the characterization point of view I’m very happy with the fact that the he does not exactly move in a generic way, hopefully the ‘diva’ personality in him is noticeable. If I had a chance to animate this from the beginning one more time I would alter his movements altogether – right now he behaves more like an erratic character with little self-control over his own body and the movement doesn’t really feel like it’s flowing properly. It feels to me that he is just changing from one pose to the next one without much thought in between and the emotion and authority in the character could be brought out more properly with a more subtle array of gestures in the body. Even though I am not overall happy with the movements that I chose to animate for my character, I tried my best to make those movements look as sophisticated as I could using overlapping action and adding a lot of subtle animation that is rather hard to notice because of the scene dressing, for example, the shrinking and dilation of his pupils is almost invisible because of the darker lens over the retina of the eyes. I am very happy with the amount of skills that I have gained while working on this project and I enjoyed working on this project very much!

Brief Technical Summary of the scene:

The scene itself is built using the file referencing system where the character is imported as a reference in a blank scene file after it has been fully prepared for animation. This allowed me to work simultaneously on the animating the character and texturing and skinning without any major technical issues.

The head of the model was built using an online video tutorial (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xls25e08sSg) and the body mesh is a group of separate meshes (body, hair, glasses, eyes, shirt, teeth, earrings, bandana, tongue, gums, eyebrows) all skinned together to the rig. The edgeflow of the character’s body is kept as simple and clean as possible and the small amount of triangles in the mesh are placed in areas where they add to the shape of the body organically (connection of the neck to the chest, Forming of the underarms, etc.). The textures are mostly very simple with an addition of a subtle bump map apart from the three separate skin texture layers for the sub-surface scatter shader.

The rig for the character is a modification of the Digital Tutors basic character rig and the modifications include the removal of IK controls on the arms, individual controls for spreading and bending each finger, improvised control system for the blendshapes of the face and addition of more control over the back. All of the unnecessary transformations of the control curves have been locked and hidden, though I have not limited the rotations of the control curves on the arms and this caused quite a lot of problems during the animation process.

The lighting in the scene is just a set of two spotlights and one directional light and there is no animation on the camera. There are also no props in the scene as there was no need for the character to be interacting with anything but the viewer.

Close-up view of high-percentage asbestos millboard insulation, showing its highly fibrous composition. Often confused as regular cardboard or "transite" paneling, asbestos millboard is a distinct type of insulation distinguished more notably by its density and friability, as compared to corrugated or cement-based materials. Characterization aside, such damaged asbestos material is typically required to be removed by properly trained and licensed asbestos abatement contractor personnel.

Suspended Animation Classic #327

Originally published April 2, 1995 (#14)

(Dates are approximate)

Judge Dredd, Nexus, Star Wars

By Michael Vance

Judge for yourself.

In a world of corruption, immorality, and violence, he is absolute, unbending LAW. He is judge, jury, and executioner embodied in one hulking man, Judge Joe Dredd.

The quickest way to court death is to throw yourself on the mercy of this court.

Not another grim, dark, and violent vigilante comic book!?!?

Yes and no.

In this world, a murdered President, a corrupt Chief Judge, and his jackbooted thugs – the Ministry of Fear – have perverted the Law they’ve sworn to serve. Computers sentence perpetrators who are shuttled to “Iso blocks”, jails that few ever leave.

And the bad buys win while Dredd naps … for fifty years or so.

Then, Mega-City One becomes a radioactive wasteland, and Dredd promptly kills, sorta, his papa and a whole bunch of rioters.

If it still sounds like more yes than no, persevere. You haven’t met the mime judges yet.

“Judge Dredd” is down, dirty, and … funny?

It is dark, grim, and violent satire of dark, grim, violence. Dredd’s tongue is so firmly stuck in cheek that it near pokes yer eye out.

If that’s not enough, plotting is tight, characterization is abundant, and there’s enough twists on clichés to keep readers hopping.

If that’s also not enough, the art is better than drab and seems to improve each issue. There’s also big guns, bombs, bullets, and clenched teeth!

And if that’s not enough, at least you’ll learn an important lesson.

Judge not lest ye be judged.

Hey! I have a tongue to!

“Judge Dredd” #s 10-12/$1.95 & 25 pages each from DC Comics/words: Andrew Helfer; art: Doug Selogy and others/available in comics shops and by mail.

Also recommended, “Judge Dredd: Legends of the Law”.

MINIVIEW: “Nexus – The Wages of Sin”. Science-fiction, superheroes, satire and slapstick, it remains one of the best romps in comic books.

MINIVIEW TO: “Star Wars – Droids Special”. R2D2 and Threepio in great robotic fun for hardcore fans and young readers.

View of damaged high-percentage asbestos millboard insulation in basement of residential structure, formerly used as heat shielding on wooden support member.

Often mistakenly thought of as regular cardboard or "transite" paneling, asbestos millboard is a distinct type of insulation, usually distinguished more notably by its density and friability, as compared to corrugated paper or cement-based materials.

Material characterization aside, this damaged asbestos material will be removed by properly trained and licensed asbestos abatement contractor personnel.

Suspended Animation Classic #247

Originally published September 19, 1993 (#39)

(Dates are approximate)

The Silver Surfer

By Michael Vance

“The Silver Surfer” #s 86 & 87/$1.25, 22 pages, from Marvel Comics/words: Ron Marz; art: Andy Smith/available everywhere comics are sold.

In an industry fascinated with fads, a superhero on a surfboard seemed inspired in the 1960s. Almost twin in appearance to the Academy Awards “Oscar”, this mercurial hero seemed silly on the surf … er, surface of the Earth, speaking in stilted dialogue that was excessive even for comic books. So, The Silver Surfer was quickly forgotten.

Thou fool. Not so.

Actually, twenty seven years after his first appearance, he’s still a gnarly dude if you’re, like, into superheroes, you know.

The Silver Surfer began as a cosmic herald for a creature that ate planets. Now exiled to Earth for past sins, he still battles evil with his “power cosmic”, which “none may stand before”. Er, before which none may stand. The stilted dialogue is still a trademark as is the energy the Surfer uses against his cosmic foes.

The Silver Surfer now battles Thor, a mythological Norse god that joined the superhero union even before the Surfer. Thor is temporarily insane, and therefore, a bad guy. The war is waged in epic proportions with epic dialogue because Thor also talks in stilted Old English. Verily, forsooth.

Surfer’s art is excellent – clean, distinctive storytelling that’s light years ahead of the crowd, The exaggerated, incorrect anatomy that makes superheroes dynamic is here, subtly. Faces are too much alike, but artist Andy Smith didn’t create these faces, and rightfully holds true to established likenesses.

The writing for “Silver Surfer” is also much above average. The characters (that Ron Marz, writer, didn’t create) remain true to long held characterizations. Marz’s plot is simple, but clear and entertaining. Originality isn’t epic, and almost non-existent, but Marz still writes words worth reading. He even downplays the Surfer and Thor grandiose verbiage.

Therefore, ‘tis well enough to stand firm, sayeth Thor, thou who wouldst cosmic clashes. Purchase anon “The Silver Surfer”.

Folks who don’t enjoy superheroes can stand firm with Faulkner and Hemingway. As for me … I stand with both.

Well, this is not a terrific photograph, I realize. But a Phainopepla is always a prize. John and I have been under the weather with the flu, but we were finally feeling well enough to venture out to Del Valle Park in Livermore where we found this handsome fellow hanging out in the Mistletoe.

Here are a couple of "cool facts" from Cornell's "All About Birds":

"An individual Phainopepla eats at least 1,100 mistletoe berries per day, when they are available.

The name "Phainopepla" (pronounced fay-no-PEP-la) comes from the Greek for "shining robe," a fitting characterization of the shiny, jet-black plumage of the adult male."

Bartolo di Fredi (Siena, about 1330 - Siena, January 26, 1410) - eight female heads - fresco - Civic Museum of San Gimignano

Imitando lo stile di Simone Martini e di Pietro e Ambrogio Lorenzetti, si pone all'attenzione come uno dei rappresentanti più tipici della scuola senese, con forte caratterizzazione per uno stile che possiamo dire assai "decorativo". Fu uno dei pittori più importanti della seconda metà del Trecento, sia a Siena, che nelle città limitrofe che ancora oggi conservano numerose sue opere.

Imitating the style of Simone Martini and Pietro and Ambrogio Lorenzetti, he stands out as one of the most typical representatives of the Sienese school, with a strong characterization of a style that we can say is very "decorative. He was one of the most important painters of the second half of the fourteenth century, both in Siena and in neighboring cities that still retain many of his works.

Abitibi-Témiscamingue, QC. Canada

(English follow)

Le garrot à œil d’or est l’une des 6 espèces de canards arboricoles du Québec. La nidification de ceux-ci requiert la présence de chicots ou d’arbres suffisamment matures et de bonnes dimensions, car ces canards y trouvent les cavités nécessaires à la ponte.

Une étude de caractérisation de l’habitat de reproduction des canards arboricoles, datant de 2002, démontrait qu’en moyenne 300m séparait le site de ponte du plan d’eau le plus proche.1 Ceci suggère que les normes régissant les pratiques forestières actuelles, qui exigent seulement une bande riveraine de 20m près des plans d’eau et permettent la destruction des arbres sans valeur commerciale, encouragent le déclin des populations de canards arboricoles en réduisant la disponibilité de nichoirs potentiels.

The Common Goldeneye is one of the 6 species of arboreal duck found in Québec. Their nesting requires the presence of snags or sufficiently large and mature trees where these ducks find the cavities they need for laying.

A characterization study of the breeding habitat of arboreal ducks, dated from 2002, demonstrated that on average 300m separated the nesting site from the nearest body of water.(1) This suggests that the standards forestry practices, which only require a 20m riparian strip near water bodies and allow the destruction of trees of no commercial value encourage the decline of arboreal duck populations by reducing the availability of potential nest sites.

(1)( MAISONNEUVE, C., R. MC NICOLL, A. DESROSIERS et G.LUPIEN. 2002. Caractérisation de l’habitat de reproduction des canards arboricoles. Société de la faune et des parcs du Québec, Direction de la recherche sur la faune et Direction de l’aménagement de la faune du Saguenay – Lac Saint-Jean. 51 p.)

All rights reserved ©André Bhérer

Excerpt from tourismhamilton.com:

This artwork (22) is a series of tableaus depicting a fictional downtown Hamilton that captures the particular atmosphere of the city. As an illustrator and animator I had fun creating characterizations and situations based on the area where each box resides; adding playful and fantastical elements inspired by nearby businesses, amenities and monuments. The designs merge the people and environments of the past with the present and imaginary, providing them a vibrant space to coexist. I hope they create experiences that can be shared with friends and family while also providing a space for strangers to laugh together.

A bright burst of light shines from the planet Venus as it travels toward the horizon southwest of Bear Peak and the town of Boulder, Colorado. Lights from town glow from the western edge of the Great Plains on the right of the frame and fill the valley with a soft glow. There is a new moon, and the night is dark in the forest but brighter here once the lights of Boulder come into view.

In the Western world, the planets of our solar system are all named for Roman gods. Among these gods, Venus is the sole female of the pantheon to grace our night skies. The planets were discovered between nearly 2000 BC to 1930 AD, with Venus being the first named planet and Pluto the last, though the latter has now been classified as a dwarf planet. Of course, Venus was probably noticed well before 2000 BC, but it was the ancient Sumerians from that time living in Babylon (modern day Iraq) who created the first known written documents of her orbit on clay tablets. The Sumerians described this bright light as a divine, heavenly lady, and it seems this characterization struck a chord with humanity. Ever since, she has been associated with grace, beauty, procreation, love, desire, fertility, prosperity, and victory. The Roman goddess Venus was herself greatly informed by the Greek goddess Aphrodite. The etymology of the name 'Aphrodite' is unclear, but apparently most scholars now believe it was borrowed from the near-eastern Phoenician cultures, and ultimately came from the ancient Sumerians who first described her course through the heavens. Given that the cultures that first identified and named the planets nearest earth believed in complicated assortments of gods and goddesses, it is striking to me that only one planet besides our own Earth is female. What are the odds?

Back to modern times, I have hiked this trail south of Eldorado Springs on dozens of occasions and all of them by night. In the recent past, this schedule was largely due to the acrobatic juggling of work and home life with young children. It always seemed easiest to make time for myself after the children had gone to sleep. Although we both grew up in Oregon, a good high-school friend of mine lives not far away, and we often ramble the foothills after dark, planning backpacking trips, discussing solutions to the worlds problems, the intractable conundrums of child-rearing, the complicated trade-offs and gifts inherent to relationships, and the finer points of bread-baking and gardening. Now, the children can put themselves to bed without parental supervision. And yet, we still find ourselves out plying the darkened path to Aphrodite, drawn by the quietude that permeates the senses when naught but starlight shines down upon us.

Technical notes: A blend of 3 exposures, one for Venus at a smaller aperture to achieve the light-burst effect, another long exposure for the sky, and then a third long exposure with wider aperture for the foreground. All 3 images developed separately and then manually blended in Photoshop CC.

Rupa is 19 and is studying design in Insurgentes University. Soon, she is going to switch to the UAM Xochimilco (a very important university in Mexico) and continue her college education in design. When I see her close to the Fine Arts Palace, I was very attracted to get a portrait of her because of her beauty, her characterization like a "Catrina" (a very important symbol in the Day of the Dead in México) but with a very natural and organic style and because she was very focused taking pictures with his reflex camera. We talked a little and I notice Rupa is that kind of people who radiate a peaceful joy with the eyes. After the pictures I said thanks to her and good bye and she replied with a "Hare Krishna".

By the way, I think that joining to the 100 Strangers Project has been a very good decision, not only to improve my very bad photographer skills, but also because this is a exercise of consciousness to really understand that it's true: "Each person is a cosmic singularity", and in that way each one of us is a miracle and each person is beautiful. When I've been taking the portraits of strangers and sharing a moment with them and knowing something about their lives I can feel that I'm a little closer to be a better person.

About the portrait. I tried to put into practice some portrait concepts I read in some blogs, specially about playing getting a more luminous photo, a long distance of the background, a different angle. This was my favorite portrait of Rupa and have to say that I discover that even if there is not a very obvious contrast between the model clothes and the background you can get nice pics with the help of the blurred effect. Also, this was an opportunity for me to think different despite the nervous of taking photos of a stranger because in the place the photos were taken there was too many people and too many objects that didn't allowed me to get a portrait closer to the impression I had of Rupa: I wanted the background the less colored and with the less distraction possible, and I found it right in the sky. If you want to see other portraits of Rupa, you can visit: www.flickr.com/photos/ruinas_circulares/albums/7215765834...

The Goodyear Polymer Center (more commonly referred to simply as "the polymer building"), constructed in 1990-1991, is a 146,000 sq. ft. research facility, located at the University of Akron, in Akron, Ohio. It consists of 12-story and 9-story towers connected by glass-enclosed walkways that serve as areas for informal interaction.

It contains eight large polymer synthesis groups, computer simulation and modeling capabilities, a microscopy suite, molecular and morphological characterization labs, surface analysis facilities,and thermal analysis and mechanical properties testing equipment.

The Goodyear Polymer Center houses both the Department of Polymer Science and the Institute of Polymer Science. The building houses classrooms, approximately 60 labs, 20 faculty offices, and 25 offices with 200 modules arranged in clusters for students and researchers. It contains the Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Center, the Paul J. Flory Reading Room, The International Rubber Science Hall of Fame portrait gallery, The Applied Polymer Research Center, and the 213-seat Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company Auditorium.

Fumaroles and steam vents lie on a sinter mound called Kísilhóll which means “silica hill”. Kísilhóll lies to the southwest of the called Gunnuhver group. Both features lie in a larger Reykjanes geothermal area also often also called Gunnuhver. This highly active geothermal area located on southwest side of the Reykjanes Peninsula, west of Grindavík, Iceland gets the name Gunnuhver from the angry and vengeful female ghost, Guðrún. In Icelandic folklore, a priest trapped Guðrún’s spirit in these hot springs over 400 years ago. This dynamic, high temperature geothermal area changes often with hydrothermal features coming and going over its recorded history. Reykjanes is unstable due to earthquakes, which occur in swarms. Most are rather small with the largest measured just over magnitude 5. Some have caused a minor slip on a fissure that passes through Gunnuhver and Kísilhóll. The last earthquake occurred about 40 years ago. Such ground movements revive the steam field intermittently and allow the deep reservoir water to escape to the surface creating short-lived geysers and thermal springs. Historically, several intermittent geysers have observed here.

Seawater makes up the deep reservoir fluid that enters the hot springs. This is a unique situation in Iceland and a rare occurrence in the world. The water rich in dissolved chlorides, sulfur and silica other minerals deposits sinter, native sulfur and other sulphate minerals including tamarugite (a sodium sulfate). Cyanobacteria which live at high temperature also account for some of the vibrant hues seen in the springs. In the foreground of this photo yellow native sulfur and sulphates can be seen around small solfataras (fumaroles). Near the surface of the thermal areas temperatures sometimes measure over 300°C (570°F) which makes one of the highest temperature hydrothermal areas in the world. The hydrothermal features like fumaroles, mud pots and erupting springs form where steam generated by boiling in a geothermal reservoir emanates and condenses and mixes with surface water. Accompanying gases such as carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulphide make the water acid, which causes alteration of the fresh basalt (lava rock) to clay.

The development of the Geothermal power plant in 2006 effected the hydrothermal features. Steaming of the ground at Reykjanes increased markedly as a consequence of pressure drawdown in the geothermal reservoir after exploitation. Some boreholes drilled during development became steam vents or mud pools.

Today the most common thermal features on Kísilhóll are solfataras. The sinter in the foreground of the photo has patches of encrusting native sulfur and sulfates around pinhole fumarole vents. Near the boardwalk a larger steam vent is visible. There are a couple depressions which were most likely geysers or hot springs. The last known active geyser in the area, Hverinn 1918, formed after an earthquake in 1918 southwest of Kísilhóll east of the current road. It was a powerful fountain geyser that erupted from a 5 m ( 16 feet) wide pool. Its power soon decreased but in 1927 It was still erupting 3-6 m (10-20 feet) high at an interval of around 15 minutes. The activity continued to diminish. A 1967 earthquake reenergized the geyser and 12 m (40 feet) eruptions were reported. An exploxion from a nearby geithermal exploratory borehole terminated all activty from the geyser. A depression is all that is left.

References:

en.isor.is/9-gunnuhver-hot-springs

www.visitreykjanes.is/en/inspiration/towns/town/index/pla...

guidetoiceland.is/travel-iceland/drive/gunnuhver

www.academia.edu/37214908/Lithogeochemical_approaches_in_...

www.hou.usra.edu/meetings/lpsc2017/pdf/2834.pdf

utgafa.ni.is/skyrslur/2006/NI-06010.pdf

“...Time to end it, don't you think?”

“Never! They are just machines. I'll find a way. I always have.”

“...When you had the sword! But now it's gone! There's no hope!”

“I've been doing fine without it.”

“...Well, listen to you! And what are you going to do when Aku finds you and realizes you have no sword?”

“Aku doesn't know. And he hasn't shown himself in years. He keeps thinking that one of his machines can defeat me.”

“...Maybe he's right. You haven't faced anything so powerful! How much longer can you can keep this up?”

“It always seems bad at first. But then I find a way. They are just nuts and bolts. Just nuts and bolts...”

“...Who cares anymore? There's no way home, there's nothing to fight for! There's no more honor! Come to think of it, the only honorable thing to do is...”

“Quiet.”

“...No! I won't spend eternity in this forsaken time!”

“What do you want from me?”

“...I want it to end!”

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Yeah yeah, I'm a little late to the Samurai Jack party!

If it wasn't for my lead up to the Wonder Woman film, I may have posted this sooner to the Season Finale, but who cares! :P

What an Incredible series! Genndy Tartakovsky is an absolute genius, and his creative team have really created something incredible with these stories!

With the mature return of Samurai Jack earlier this year; Tartakovsky concluded the over-arching story of Jack and his travels trough time! As final seasons go, this was one of the most beautiful and emotional animated productions I've ever seen. The entire show is drenched in creativity and new ideas, and it's truly one of the most inventive shows I've ever watched. With it's unique take on characterization, world building locations, inventive creatures, wonderful humor, plus so many other things, it's hard to wrap my head around it all! The fifth season brought everything to a close in the best way's possible, honoring where it has come from, to a stellar finale worth all the praise. It first aired nearly seventeen years ago, and I've been watching it ever since.

Really, go watch it if you haven't. If anything else, just for the incredible visuals and uses of color and animation! But the story! It was so good! It gave the kid inside me some serious closer.

***

Now I've tweaked the source material a little but generally speaking, the imagery used here is loosely based around Season 5's Episode XCIV, with a small hint of visual inspiration from The Three Blind Archers from Season 1.

Patreon has more info on the build, with clearer looks at the figures, also an early sketch I did planning for the shoot, plus an exclusive Patreon only photo from this photoshoot as well! :)

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Looooong ago, in a distant land! I tore open a portal in time, and flung The Samurai into a future of early photography, behind the scenes images, and WIPs of upcoming projects... where my evil is LAW! Now the fool seeks to return to the past and undo the future that is Akuuuuuu!

www.patreon.com/andrewcookston

Facebook: www.facebook.com/andrewcookstonphotography/

The actual characterization of age was introduced in the Hellenistic period.Young children enjoyed great favor,whether in in mythological form,as baby Herakles or Eros,or in genre scenes playing with each or with pets.This Eros,has been brought down to earth and disarmed,a conception considerably different from that of the powerful,often cruel and capricious being so often addressed in Archaic poetry.One of the few statue of its kind to survive in tact from antiquity,this figure of a plump baby in repose conveys the sense of a the immediacy and naturalistic detail that the medium of bronze made possible. He is clearly based on firsthand observation.The support of which the god rests is a modern addition,but the work originally would have had a separate base,most likely of stone.

Judging from the extant replicas,the type was popular in Hellinistic and,especially,Roman times.In the Roman period sleeping Eros statues decorated villa gardens and fountains.Their function in the Hellinistic period is less clear.They may have been used in decorations within a sanctuary of Aphrodite or possibly may have been erected in a public park or private,or even royal,garden.

Before you say it, no I did not copy off of TheMoosefigs, I took this photo around 8 hours ago and planned to do a thoughts picture after I saw the movie a second time, and that was 3 hours ago.

Honesty I don't know why I should be talking about that

Guardians Vol 2, wow is was really good. So I might to think it over, but this may be my favorite MCU film (not favorite Marvel film, Spiderman 2 is like a masterpiece). This movie had everything, a nice plot, great humor, great soundtrack, and great characterization. This is more of "character" film than the big budget sequel that most sequels aim for. We get to learn a lot about these characters and their relationship with one another. Quill has some problems with his dad, and Gamora, Gamora and Nebula have some complications, Drax talks a little more about his past, and Yondu talks a lot more about his past and his past eight the ravagers, Rocket and Groot....we're there really for comedic purposes. Speaking of which, I laughed like crazy in this film, even seeing it a second time I was laughing a ton.

So I want to talk about the villain which (Imo) the best mcu villain ever.

also SPOILERS

Ego was really well developed, he had a great Interaction with quill that really stands out against pad much villains. The twist with ego killing quill's mom made for a great purpose for quill to stop him. Also I love Kurt Russell

The films pacing, I do admit, does have a little struggle near the end with them about to destroy ego, and the gold people were really just...there. Saying that, the humor really carried the film and made it really enjoyable. And Yondu's death felt really sad and I actually cried. (I wasn't bawling like I was in Toy Story 3, but a couple tears were shed) And the ravagers coming to his funeral really completed Yondu's arc.

This movie was a complete blast and I highly recommend it.