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How does this IPA stack up with the other brews in this year's Daisy Chain?
On a clear day, Brazos Valley Brewing's The Road Goes On Forever wouldn't be a bad choice.
The Daisy Chain might be the best thing about Houston brewing culture right now. The story: In the wake of Hurricane Harvey, Southern Star brewmaster Sam Wright came up with a way to bring the city's brewing scene together. He started by pitching a strain of yeast, then passing it onto another brewery, which re-pitched it, then passed it on as well. And so on, and so forth. The idea is that every brewery participating in Daisy Chain brews a unique beer that has the same local roots. It started in 2018 and came back this year, with many of the beers released in February and March.
Because the breweries use the same yeast strain, the experiment offers drinkers a chance to compare the level of creativity each brewery puts into its concoction. And while some places went against the mainstream (for example, Holler made a brown ale this year, while Fetching Lab in Texas City chose a peach cream ale), we generally saw a glut of IPAs, since the yeast lent itself to be used with copious hops.
Spindletap leaned on its juice-making habits for a good one, but otherwise I'd yet to taste anything that either surprised me or bowled me over. Which brings me to Brazos Valley Brewing's The Road Goes on Forever, a beer that epitomized what I've tasted so far out of the Daisy Chain beers: It left me wanting a little more.
The Road Goes on Forever promises fruity notes (orange, grapefruit, melon), and on the nose I certainly got that, with grapefruit overpowering. It poured a cloudier golden tint, so I couldn't mistake this for a New England IPA. This is a basic IPA at 6.8 percent ABV with fruity notes.
Brazos Valley uses Amarillo and Comet hops in The Road Goes on Forever; the former is great for bringing out the grapefruit and citrus scent, while the latter is used for bittering. I'm not sure how much Comet was used, but I wanted a far more bitter experience. It was all fruit up front and little body. The fruit lingered beyond the initial taste with no dryness.
While I haven't tried all the Daisy Chain beers yet, my impression so far is that a few breweries missed an opportunity to really go nuts. Daisy Chain is an awesome project; here's hoping it spurs some crazy creative juices in the future.
Explanation of ratings: 9.5-10: as good as the best beer in America; 9-9.4: the best beer in Houston; 8-8.9: among the better beers in Houston; 7-7.9: really good beer; 6-6.9: try this beer at least once; 5-5.9: if you’re stuck, this won’t hurt; 3-4.9: among the lowest-quality beers in Houston; 0-2.9: as bad as the worst beer in America.


text:
Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras on Tuesday spoke on the phone with German Chancellor Angela Merkel. They discussed developments relating to the negotiations on the FYROM name issue, provocative Turkish activity in the Aegean, Turkey’s relations with the European Union and its obstruction of exploratory drilling for fossil fuels in Cyprus’ Exclusive Economic Zone.
According to sources, Tsipras underlined the need for a final solution on the FYROM name issue with a change of the country’s constitutional name and referred in detail to recent Turkish actions in the Aegean, noting that Turkey’s respect for international law in the Aegean and the Mediterrenean was a prerequisite for promoting EU-Turkish relations.
Tsipras will meet with Merkel in Brussels on Friday on the sidelines of the EU Summit after Merkel’s meeting in Germany with FYROM’s Prime Minister Zoran Zaev.

industry_corpus2: Politics & Administration


text:
Back from Australia and off to Alberta!
I just got back from Australia and I’m finally settled in and adjusted back to the Canadian time & weather Being back at home is really lovely. My own bed, my own kitchen, and storm stayed for 2 days last week. I wasn’t joking about being out in the country and getting snowed in. Today is another snow storm. Welcome back to January I guess. On a good note, here’s what we did with the snow. Built a snow fort with seats and put a bonfire in the middle. Legend I tell ya.
This Saturday, I fly out to western Canada for a House Concert Tour with the organization, Home Routes (http://www.homeroutes.ca/). It’s a very cool thing going on. I play 11 house concerts in 14 days around rural Alberta. These routes run all over Canada and bring music to areas that don’t always have a ton of live music happening. It’s a very cool experience for the artist, the host, and the audience. I did one up in northern B.C last year and had a blast! Definitely check out the website and catch any house concerts coming through your area. Or, maybe you even want to think about being a host yourself.
On this Alberta Home Routes Tour, I head to places like Camrose, Priddis (Calgary), Sherwood Park and Edmonton area, Grand Prairie, and all the way up to Manning. If you would like to attend any of the house concerts to the right of this page, just email me at kim@kimwempe.com and I’ll shoot you some details about where you can purchase tickets in advance. All are welcome and I’d love to see your faces, so don’t be shy!
Well, Australia happened. The first time I’ve ever played music on the other side of the world. It was incredible. The weather, the wildlife, the people, the coffee, the cider, and more. A huge huge thanks to my Aussie team, Geoff Trio, Alice Aguera, Josh Daly, Emma Lovell, & Jo Corbett. Another huge huge thanks to Chloe Goodyear and the Woodford Folk Festival for having me. And another huge thanks to Diesel for letting me open up for him!
I’ll tell you the best and the worst of my Aussie experience because it would takes me pages to tell you about the whole thing. The best things about my time in Australia were the beaches, ginger beer, meeting new friends, and getting to feed kangaroos that had babies in their pouches! Seriously!!
The worst part of my Aussie trip…seeing a Huntsmen spider for the first time. If you’ve never seen a Huntsmen, I don’t recommend googling it. You won’t sleep for days. Hahah! Let’s just say I had one encounter in a bathroom when I was alone in a house and that encounter was enough to hold me over for a lifetime. Also I sang for 10 days straight at one point, had no voice, and was so tired that I left my laptop in the Brisbane airport. I know, I know. I was tired ok? But..it was returned!!!!!! But I also lost my wedding ring in the San Francisco airport and that wasn’t returned so losing stuff was among another worst on the trip. Something about my tired head and airports don’t go well. I learned my lesson. Passport, phone, laptop, wallet, wedding ring. Repeat.
On a serious note though, I’d say I learned a huge lesson in Australia. It’s one of my goals for 2014. Be more present. Stop worrying about the past and worrying about the future, and just enjoy the moment you’re in, because it doesn’t come again. You do have to think about the future and learn from your past but it can’t be your main focus. I saw this movie on my day off in Australia called ‘The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” and it seriously was such an inspiring and awesome movie. Go see it! And get the soundtrack because it’s incredible!! However, too many times in life we are thinking about so many other things besides the moment that we are in. Too many times we are not thinking about ‘the now’. So put your phone away, stop scrolling facebook and instagram looking at what people posted yesterday and look up at the stars right now. We don’t do that often enough.
Again and again and again, I will say thank you. For your support and love of music. Keep in touch and hope to see your faces around real soon! You’re all awesome!!!
*A special note again for the pre orders who had ordered T-shirts. I’m SO sorry for the crazy delay! You will have them in your hands this month!! Once again, I apologize for the delay on these. I greatly appreciate your patience and assure you they turned great after a few minor mishaps I love the look of them and I hope you do to! I will contact you by email for sizes and address confirmation. xo Many thanks again and again for your patience!
Well what a journey that was across Canada!

industry_corpus2: Film & Entertainment


text:
On June 30, 1865, James Pollock, director of the Mint, proposed that a coin made of nickel alloy in the denomination of five cents would be a good substitute for the five-cent fractional currency notes then in circulation. Although half dimes were being produced, they, like other silver denominations, did not circulate. In the same year a number of patterns for the new coin were made. After early July 1862, silver coins were withdrawn from circulation, and the Treasury no longer paid them out. The public, not knowing whether the Confederacy would win the Civil War or if the Union would be the victor, hoarded hard money of all kinds, from Indian cents upward to $20 pieces. The Treasury Department continued to produce gold and silver coins, but did not pay them out in commercial transactions until the 1870s.
Although a number of interesting patterns were made featuring the portraits of presidents Washington and Lincoln, James B. Longacre's shield design used earlier on the 1864 two-cent piece was adopted for circulating coinage. With modifications it formed the obverse. The reverse depicted the numeral 5 surrounded by a circle of stars with a ray between each. Soon the motif became known as the Shield type.
In the second year of circulation of the Shield design, 1867, it was determined that the bars or rays on the reverse caused too much metal displacement and resulted in striking difficulties. Indeed, surviving specimens of the with-rays design minted in 1866 and 1867 often display weakness. As a result, following a nominal coinage of 1867 nickels with rays, the feature was dropped. The new design, without rays, was continued through 1883. The appearance of the without-rays nickel in 1867 caused public confusion, and many merchants and others refused to handle them, believing the pieces to be counterfeit. An explanation from the Mint apparently was worded in a confusing manner, for soon a percentage of the populace believed that the earlier nickels with rays were the counterfeit ones, whereas the without-rays style coins were genuine. The nickel five-cent piece found ready acceptance with the public. Mintages were generous during the first several years of its introduction. A vivid exception was provided by the 1877, struck in a year when other minor denominations experienced reduced mintages. It is believed that fewer than 1,500 Shield nickels were issued that year, all sold as part of the Proof sets distributed to collectors. The following year, 1878, saw a mintage of just 2,350 pieces, also struck only in Proof condition for collectors. Mintages of the 1879-1881 years were also low, primarily because the Philadelphia Mint was concentrating on silver dollar production at the time. In 1882 11 million were coined. In 1883, the last year of the Shield nickel design, 1,456,919 were struck.
The Hardness of the nickel alloy caused many striking problems. As a result, numerous Shield nickels today are seen with evidence of die breaks, ranging from minute to major. Still other coins show weak striking in areas. Indeed, a perfectly struck Shield nickel, sharp in all details and without any evidence of die breaks, would be unusual among coins struck for circulation.
The hard nickel alloy resulted in rapid die wear. To extend the life of dies, some were softened and then repunched with the hub, thereby sharpening the impression. The result is that numerous repunchings occur on the letters and other features of many issues. Repunched dates are likewise common. Two sharp overdates, the 1879/8 (Proofs only) and 1883/2 (business strikes only), exist in the series. Another coin with a recut date has been styled as 111869/811 by some authorities, although the undertype is not sharp enough to permit unequivocal identification.
Proofs for collectors were made of each issue from 1866 through 1883 inclusive. Only a few 1867 Proof nickels with rays were made, for the design was changed early in the year. While Proof mintage figures for the 1867 with-rays style apparently were not kept, an estimate would be 25 to 50 pieces. 1877 and 1878 shield nickels are Proof-only issues, as noted. No examples were struck for circulation in those years.

industry_corpus2: Finance & Economics


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This is full tang and fully sharpened Nagamaki sword made from T10 folded and clay tempered steel that has undergone the hadori polish process which further enhance the visibility and beauty of the hamon line.
The T10 steel has been folded 13 times which creates thousands of layers of steel and adds subtle Hada to the blade surface that look as a grain pattern. The blade also has gone through differential hardening making the spine softer than the edge which allows the blade to be extremely tough and retain a razor sharp blade overtime, while giving the sword more flexibility. Its an excellent sword for target cutting such as tatami mats and bamboo poles.
The blade of this Nagamaki sword features a bo-hi which runs down the length of the weapons blade and works by making this Nagamaki more lightweight and easier to wield. Sometimes, it is also referred to as the blood groove or fuller which also functions by altering the blades balance point while also ensuring good edge alignment.
The tsuba, kashira, and fuchi are all made from high-quality copper and the menuki is made from brass. The menuki fits nicely with the black ray skin that covers the tsuka abd with the dark brown leather ito wrapped in Katate-Maki style (Battle wrap).
This Nagamaki saya is aesthetically appealing and made from synthetic green leopard leather wood and covered with burgundy rayon silk Sageo which definitely brings out the sword beauty and elegance; the sword comes with a silk sword bag to easily carry the sword around or to keep it when not in use. This Nagamaki has a blade length of seventy-three centimeters while its width measures around 3.2; its tsuka is quite lengthy at forty-five centimeters and the sword has a total weight of 1.92 kilograms.

industry_corpus2: Manufacturing


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During the days before the Funka Accessibility Days it’s all in at the Funka office. Everything has been carefully planned for months and now needs to get that finishing touch. Finally it’s time for our conference. We of course like for our material to be printed in different languages and in different types of writing, which means our printer room is very busy.
As I go to the printer room to get my printouts I run into my colleague, Jocke. He’s standing in front of a machine that I’ve never noticed before. It’s in some sort of locker and if I were to guess I’d say it was a back up station, router or some (after 25 years in the IT business) regular machine that everybody keeps in their printing room.
- Ah, I need to get Chrille.
Chrille is our technician and he enters the room. He gives the machine a touch or two, talks to Jocke and pulls a couple of levers.
- Gaah, we can’t use these!
He hands me a pile of white paper.
- These are full of weird characters, he says despondently.
Jocke is visually impaired. His papers has a lot of bumps, it’s braille.
I think to myself that it can’t be that bad. It looks just like regular braille. But to be honest, I have no idea. I can’t read braille! I actually have no idea what those papers say or if something is wrong with them. But I know I would never hand out a brochure or a flyer with errors and weird characters.
I am very grateful for those 5 minutes in the printer room. We all have different fundamental conditions and this time I couldn’t do more than hold the lid of the waste paper container as Jocke disposed of the faulty papers.
We see things differently me and Jocke, but we share the same feeling. Quality is important; whether you see it or you feel it. Just think of the number of useless printers in the world!
PS. Many thanks to Polar Print that provided great service and a quick delivery when our braille printer broke down!

industry_corpus2: Computing & Telecommunications


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Welcome to the first stop aboard the new Magical Blogorail Orange. Enjoy the ride as we introduce ourselves, our blogs and share what inspired us to start our blogs!
Hi, my name is Deb, I'm a boomer mom to 2 wonderful college age boys (1 adopted with special needs from Russia and 1 biological) who have grown up to be Disneyfied young men. I'm a wife to an amazing husband, for 35 yrs!
When we started a family it was natural to include Disney in our lives with books, toys, and movies. We started traveling to WDW with our first son in 1990. We went twice a year until Peter our 2nd DS joined our family then it would be once a year. When Peter joined us on his very first trip he barely spoke English. I remember he literally fell backward when he saw Genie in the lobby of the Contemporary. Fortunately, Peter wasn't thoroughly traumatized and enjoyed many character meetings.
I was always very active in the online Disney communities starting around 1990 just before our first trip. There I met Deb Wills, Lou Mongello, Pete Werner and many more wonderful Disney friends. We would exchange all sorts of travel and planning information much like we still do today. We'd get together for meets and chat on IRC. The exchange of information was very helpful for all of us.
We've enjoyed taking DCL cruises on the Magic twice and The Wonder twice. We became DVC members at The Boardwalk Villas in 1997 through a resale. For the past 21 years we've celebrated Peter's citizenship, his Gotcha Day, many birthdays, anniversaries and a wedding in WDW. I've traveled to Walt Disney World with the whole family, DH & I sans kids, myself with both boys, myself and each DS, with extended family, friends, teens, college boys and solo too.
The Grand Floridian,The Yacht Club, Animal Kingdom Lodge, Contemporary, Villas Wilderness Lodge, Beach Club Villas, Saratoga Springs Spa & Resort, Port Orleans, and the Boardwalk Villas are my favorite resorts.
You'll find Focused on the Magic is filled with my photography and an eclectic collection of my foodie driven thoughts in dining reviews and experiences all focused on the magic in Disney.

industry_corpus2: Travel & Geography


text: GujaratTourismOnline offers exclusive Fairs & Festival Tour Packages in Gujarat. Gujarat Tourism Department organised many fairs & festivals every year such like Desert Festival, Rann Utsav (Tent City), Pushkar Festival etc. Book your Fairs & Festivals Tour Packages with Gujarat Tourism Online at your budget price.


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You can see that all of these methods by Sound Proofing Guys in Bristol, NH offer varying degrees of separation of the drywall on one side from the drywall on the other side. Again, all of the walls shown are superior to a single stud (common) wall.
For a full explanation on Soundproofing call Sound Proofing Guys in Bristol, NH on 800-593-3340 and get the best advice around. Trust the experts in Soundproofing in the Bristol, NH area.

industry_corpus2: Real Estate & Construction


text:
What will the asteroid-chasing space probe do?
NASA is launching a space probe called OSIRIS-REx on Thursday to chase down a dark, potentially dangerous asteroid called Bennu. The probe will take a sample of the asteroid and — in a US space first — bring the sample back to Earth.

industry_corpus2: Aerospace


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Western, KY- June 29 (9:00 p.m.) Bee Springs Resort Fireworks Celebration.
June 29 (9:30 p.m.) Freedom Fest in Murray.
July 2 (Dusk) Venture River (Eddyville) 20th Birthday Celebration.
July 3 (Dusk) Kenlake State Resort Park.
July 3 (9:00 p.m.) Ky Lake "Big Bang" at Moors Resort.
July 4 (Dusk) Ameribration Celebration in Calvert Cit.
July 4 (Dusk) Downtown Riverfront in Paducah.
July 4 (Dusk) Hickman Harbor Riverfront.
July 4 (Dusk) Fireworks over Ohio River in Smithland.
July 4 (9:00 p.m.) "Blast Over Kuttawa Harbor" at Kuttawa Marina.
July 4 (9:00 p.m.) Lake Barkley State Resort Park near Cadiz.
July 4 (9:10 p.m.) Kentucky Dam Marina.
July 5 (Dusk) Prizer-Point Marina near Cadiz.
July 6 (Dusk) "Thunder Over Eddy Bay" Eddy Creek Marina near Eddyville.


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Hello, and Welcome to The Radius Way!
My name is Danna Martin and I am the co-owner of Radius Chiropractic an Asheville, North Carolina based chiropractic practice. My husband, Dr. Dan Martin, is the chiropractor and I manage our office. Chiropractic is certainly a passion of mine; however, it is just a small piece of what this blog will be about.
Over the course of the last five years, I have been learning the intricacies of what it looks like to live a healthy, happy, thriving life. Some days, I feel like I’ve mastered the art of being healthy. Other days, I feel like I don’t know the first thing about what it means to fully “thrive”. Even so, I think that’s the beauty of this life… Learning new things every day, sharing what we know, and occasionally admitting that we don’t actually know much of anything.
My husband and I chose the name of our chiropractic office (Radius) because we love how the radius of a circle symbolizes true health. A radius begins at the center of a circle and extends out. If I have learned anything about health over the last five years, it’s that it begins from within the body. This may seem like an obvious concept, but it’s so much more complicated than we think. Health begins in the nervous system. It begins in the gut. It begins in the brain. It begins in the inner most areas of our body… the areas that are hardest to reach. So, how do we reach them? How do we access those parts of our being to help us achieve the highest level of health and truly thrive?
If these are questions that interest you, then I welcome you to follow along on this journey with me. I will be sharing what I have learned and am continuing to learn, as well as welcoming you to share what YOU have learned. I am hopeful that this blog will help to elicit a community of individuals who are interested in achieving a higher level of health and finding out new ways to truly thrive in this life.
So, thanks for joining me! I pray that this journey leads to higher health and happiness within your life.

industry_corpus2: Health & Medicine


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Sadly we got beat 1-0 at Congleton Town today. Off to Silsden in Yorkshire on wednesday night. Love me away games!
Just back from West Yorkshire after watching AFC Liverpool win 4-3 against The Silsden.
I enjoyed the Ramsbottom game last week. Did well to hold off the second half onslaught at times from a team that is fairly high up the league.
Yet again the problem for AFC seems to be in the air - don't win many headers although they are clearly decent on the deck.
Anyway, lets hope now you are out the relegation zone you stay out - done very well to pull yourselves out of the abyss - don't slip back in redmen!
A hard fought 2-0 victory over Atherton Laburnum Rovers today. Goals from Jack Sinnott (left) and Steve Jones (right) gave us the three points.
1-1 draw at home to Padiham at the weekend keeps the reds above the drop zone .played well in the first half but never pushed on in the secound with Padiham pulling one back in the secound half.
Thats right its the 2nd Preliminary Round of the FA Cup and this will feel like a Milan derby as AFC take on Prescot Cables at Valerie Park!
3pm Kick off and only £5 for adults £3 for senior citizens/OAP and £2 for kids.
Get yourselves down there and support the lads on the road to Wembley. Should be a cracker of a game and hopefully a cracking atmosphere with the tennants taking on the landlords.
^^^ Enjoy the game Joel with the lads, let us know how it goes.
Anyone know how AFC got on? Gow mentioned to me about going down but had a game myself.
Unfortunately Prescot Cables won 1-0 scored in the first half with there one and only attack on the AFC goal in the whole match. Referee was appalling and failed to give a blatant handball in the second half to AFC and was also quick to book AFC players for dissent when decsions were obviously going against them.
Still a pretty big crowd of around 400-500 which not only helps AFC with funds but also Prescot.
Atomsphere was pretty good with the 'AFC Kop' in full voice and also the 'Horn Blowing Drummer Boys' of Prescot doing there best at the other end of the ground when attacking that end.
AFC Liverpool got beat 1-0. We move on to Runcorn Town away on Tuesday night.
Oh! And the better team got beat.
Sorry to hear that Dave. Unlucky lads. Best of luck against Runcorn!
Runcorn Town 1 AFC Liverpool 3.
A 0-0 draw against Bacup Boro today in the FA Vase. Off to their place on wednesday night for the replay.
Is there a game on tomorrow?
Yes. In Bacup. Next home game is on wednesday night, 12th September, against Runcorn Linnets.
Just the same thing I was coming in to inquire about...AFC Liverpool/LFC Ladies anywhere we can find some strikers I'm all for it.
Just home from Bacup. AFC Liverpool won 1-0 and now face Askern Villa FC away in the next round of the FA Vase.
Won't be able to make the next home game as it's the Hillsborough vigil. But good luck!
A good 1-0 win at Alsager Town yesterday.
Tonight's game with Runcorn Linnets has been postponed.
It's Non-League Day this week-end, why not go and see AFC Liverpool in the FA Vase?
Non-League football isn't as bad as you think!
The Hope and Anchor is not as bad as you think nor was my school in Prescot before someone set fire to it.
Walking down Hope St to the ground you can have a Grand Tour of the alleys I used to smoke me No.6s and other pastimes near the girls school.

industry_corpus2: Sports


text: © 2015 Asiana Tech Sdn. Bhd. / ROI Co.Ltd.

industry_corpus2: Others


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Chocolate Chip Biscotti is a delicious cookie that is my favorite to bake and share for Christmas. They are a family favorite and sturdy enough for shipping to friends and relatives!
Biscotti has become my all- time favorite cookie. They are crunchy and oh so delicious. I really enjoy Chocolate Chip Biscotti with my morning coffee and the boys can’t resist dipping it in a tall glass of milk.
I have even made a How To Make Biscotti Video that you will find with the recipe. There are a few extra steps to baking biscotti but you will find they are totally worthwhile.
This year I almost skipped The Great Food Blogger Cookie Swap. I have so many things going but when I got the email for the last call for sign ups, I went ahead and signed up.
It was just hard to resist this fun event that spreads holiday cheer and supports Cookies for Kids Cancer. It is a wonderful event put on by The Little Kitchen and Love and Olive Oil. It is always fun to bake up a batch of cookies and ship them off to fellow food bloggers and it’s also pretty fun to also get cookies in the mail!
The holidays are always busy for me but I do love to take time to make cookies for friends and neighbors and this biscotti recipe is always a favorite.
Fresh baked cookies are the perfect way to show a little kindness to those around you during the holidays. My other go-to cookies for the holidays are the Best Ever Sugar Cookies!
I knew I wanted to make biscotti. Biscotti is a sturdy cookie that holds up to shipping and it will stay fresh tasting for a few weeks, making it perfect for the cookie swap.
Biscotti is baked twice and is a crunchy cookie for snacking or dunking in your morning coffee.It is really one of my favorite cookies, I’m not sure why I only bake them for Christmas!
We have great debates about chewy versus crunchy cookies at our house but I assure you we all agree that these Chocolate Chip Biscotti one of our favorites. I have added them to my holiday cookie baskets for quite a few years and they are always the first to disappear.
The debate rages on and these Salted Caramel Cookie Bars are a good mix of both crunchy and chewy! But really you can’t go wrong with fresh baked cookies! I also love these Gingerbread Cookies for the holiday season.
This year I packaged the biscotti in cellophane bags and placed them in cute polka dot tins that I found at the walmarts. I shipped them off to: Jessica is Baking, Susie Freaking Homemaker, and Julie’s Jazz.
It’s quite a thrill to get homemade goodies in the mail no matter what time of year! Wouldn’t you agree?
My cookies were the most amazing Nashville Cornmeal Poppy Seed Cookies from Cheater Chef, delicious Chocolate Chip Pretzel Toffee Cookies from Jamie’s Recipes and tasty Pecan Fudge Cups from The Tasty Truth.
Be sure to head on over to get their delicious recipes. You can also check out The Little Kitchen and Love and Olive Oil this week for a complete list of participating blogs for all the cookie inspiration a person could dream of!
It’s hard to believe we’ve been doing this for 4 years! My cookies from years past were Cowboy Cookies, Chocolate Biscotti, and Peppermint Kiss & Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Baking biscotti is not complicated as you can see in the video. I have had a few people say that the dough is a little sticky when they go to shape it.
I just sprinkle a bit of flour over the dough and it works like a charm. I hope you will give this recipe a try. It is my favorite!!
I love hearing from you. If you have tried this Chocolate Chip Biscotti, be sure to leave a comment or share on instagram using #missinthekitchen Happy Baking Y’all!
Simple and delicious Chocolate Chip Biscotti is perfect to bake and share for the holidays. The best cookie for dunking in milk or coffee!
Add butter and brown sugar to a mixer bowl. Beat at medium speed 1 minute. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing until combined, about 1 minute. Add flour, baking powder and salt, mix until well combined. Fold in mini chocolate chips.
Shape into 2 10" x 2" logs and place on a lined or greased baking sheet.
Bake 22 to 25 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool 30 minutes.
Lower oven temperature to 300 degrees.
Slice logs into about 1/2 inch slices and place on cookie sheet. Each log will make about 18-20 slices. Bake 15 minutes. Flip slices over and bake an additional 15 minutes.
Remove to a wire rack to cool. Store in an airtight container.
I would like to say a special thanks to the brands who sponsor and provide matching funds for this amazing event! I would love for you to visit their sites and show them how much their support means!
Merry Christmas Y’all! Bake some cookies and enjoy the holidays!
I’m thrilled I got to be one of your recipients! This biscotti was over the top! I savored every last bite! I’m so excited to have the recipe now!
Omg!! I just made these biscotti and used some some different variations.. sliced almonds, cherries and pistachios… delicious!!!
I have never tried baking biscotti before. For some reason I thought it would be much for complicated. I can’t wait to give it a try!
You are right, it should have been 2 1/2 cups. I have adjusted the recipe and I’m so sorry for the error! Thanks for letting me know and I hope you give the biscotti another try.
Can a gf flour be used?
I haven’t tried it with Gluten free flour, but I think it should work. Let me know how it turns out if you give it a try.
I love the idea of the toffee bits! Thanks for the tip!
do you use dark or light brown sugar?
I use light brown sugar but either is fine.
Chocolate Chip Biscotti are the best EVER! Thank you so much for sharing. They did not last for more than 2 days in my house with my family.
Do they have to be mini chocolate chips?
Mini chocolate chips work best but you can use regular chocolate chips or chop them up.
You totally made my day, so glad you enjoyed them!
How do I make the top smooth?
I sometimes use a bit of flour if the dough is a little sticky. Just lightly dust it over, maybe about 1-2 teaspoons and then you can shape it easily. I hope that helps.
Have you tried Gluten Free flour? I love Biscotti and the recipe sounds really good, but will it mess up the Biscotti?
Biscotti is one of my mom’s favorite treats… I’ll have to make these for her soon!
Hi, I’ve been looking for a good chocolate chip biscotti recipe and I’m looking forward to trying this one out! It looks great! Did you bake this on a silicone baking mat? Is there a particular one you’d recommend? Thanks so much!
I used a Silpat baking mat, I’ve also used parchment paper. I hope that helps.
This is one of the best biscotti recipes I have ever made. I usually spray my hands with spray oil before shaping the dough and that takes care of the stickiness! I also substitute toffee bits or crushed butterfingers for the chocolate chips (12 oz) or a combination of either for some variety! It works every time! I like using the mini chocolate chips for biscotti. Thanks for the great recipient!!
I am so glad you are enjoying the biscotti! I love your additions of toffee bits and Butterfingers, that is brilliant!

industry_corpus2: Hospitality & Catering


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This is how it all started in October of 2002, we opened our doors and all the fun started. Crawdaddy’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar is the kind of place that welcomes you in warmly and serves you fresh seafood, succulent steaks, and mouthwatering desserts – all with beautiful mountain views. But it doesn’t stop there. It’s here that good food, great times and fun memories are created every day.
We’re a little crazy, but we are proud of it. So, get ready order you some crawfish and a bucket of beer and don’t be afraid to sing and dance to our karaoke nightly, where all ages can have fun. Enjoy the views from one of the only balcony’s overlooking the parkway in downtown Gatlinburg. Our motto has been “GREAT FOOD & GOOD TIMES”. Crawdaddy’s strives to bring all of those things together, providing a fun-filled dining experience that will make you want to drop your anchor and never leave.
So, sit back, relax and take part in the Crawdaddy’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar experience. You’ll do enough tasting, laughing and living for an entire lifetime.


text: Intelligent agents are one of the most important developments in computer science in the 1990s. Agents are of interest in many important application areas, ranging from human-computer interaction to industrial process control. The ATAL workshop series aims to bring together researchers interested in the core aspects of agent technology. Speci?cally, ATAL addresses issues such as th- ries of agency, software architectures for intelligent agents, methodologies and programming languages for realizing agents, and software tools for developing and evaluating agent systems. One of the strengths of the ATAL workshop series is its emphasis on the synergies between theories, infrastructures, architectures, methodologies, formal methods, and languages. This year’s workshop continued the ATAL trend of attracting a large n- ber of high-quality submissions. In more detail, 75 papers were submitted to the ATAL-99 workshop, from 19 countries. After stringent reviewing, 22 papers wereacceptedforpresentationattheworkshop.Aftertheworkshop,thesepapers were revised on the basis of comments received both from the original reviewers and from discussions at the workshop itself. This volume contains these revised papers.


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House Party 2: It's jammin'! It's slammin'! High school is over, but the party is not. Join Kid n' Play for a hip-hop college adventure in House Party 2. Kid decides to pursue college instead of joining Play in a recording career. But when Play loses Kid's tuition money, the guys have to devise a new plan--and this will be the wildest one yet! Sequel to the smash hit House Party.
Starring: Christopher Reid, Christopher ""Play"" Martin, Tisha Campbell, Martin Lawrence.


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06671541 is referenced by 46 patents.
A cardiovascular imaging and functional analysis system and method is disclosed, wherein a dedicated fast, sensitive, compact and economical imaging gamma camera system that is especially suited for heart imaging and functional analysis is employed. The cardiovascular imaging and functional analysis system of the present invention can be used as a dedicated nuclear cardiology small field of view imaging camera. The disclosed cardiovascular imaging system and method has the advantages of being able to image physiology, while offering an inexpensive and portable hardware, unlike MRI, CT, and echocardiography systems.
The cardiovascular imaging system of the invention employs a basic modular design suitable for cardiac imaging with one of several radionucleide tracers. The detector can be positioned in close proximity to the chest and heart from several different projections, making it possible rapidly to accumulate data for first-pass analysis, positron imaging, quantitative stress perfusion, and multi-gated equilibrium pooled blood (MUGA) tests..
In a preferred embodiment, the Cardiovascular Non-Invasive Screening Probe system can perform a novel diagnostic screening test for potential victims of coronary artery disease. The system provides a rapid, inexpensive preliminary indication of coronary occlusive disease by measuring the activity of emitted particles from an injected bolus of radioactive tracer. Ratios of this activity with the time progression of the injected bolus of radioactive tracer are used to perform diagnosis of the coronary patency (artery disease).


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An inspirational fiction story with a beautiful touch of sweet romance, heart-wrenching drama, and a powerful, miraculous conclusion. Four generations of people, all in need of some divine intervention --- Hannah is very old and on her death bed when she is offered a special, unexpected gift from God. Hundreds of miles away, Hope Dugan is saddened by the news that her only daughter, Kaci, is moving away. Kaci, excited and eager to find happiness with a high-paying new job, never expects to discover that what she thinks she wants and what she actually needs may be two very different things. Hope’s mother Karla, in the meantime, quietly longs for the truth behind a life-long secret. Little does Hope, Kaci or Karla know how drastically Hannah’s sudden, unexpected presence is about to change everything they’ve ever known. The intertwinement of these lives is so mystifying that even the angel Jack, as Hannah’s guide through her journey, has no idea how God will work things out this time. But God knows exactly what He’s doing – and some unsuspecting people are about to witness the majestic power of His love and mercy.
why the other specialists of this sector don't notice this.

industry_corpus2: Literature & Emotions


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The current community in advocating environmental protection and sustainable development, many people feel distressed while faced so many waste in the cities. Faced with this situation, the wood pellet machine seems to work efficiently. Our country is a big agricultural country, with the most abundant agricultural waste biomass feedstock, our annual yield 700 million tons of straw, all kinds of bad residues of about 8,000 tons. Despite these huge reserves of biomass resources, but mainly have been abandoned, waste of resources and pollute the environment. So the full use of modern technology and the use of biomass resources are not fully utilized biomass industry. Which will become the focus of future development, but also important to the development of circular economy material guarantee.
Various forestry and agriculture waste materials can be used to make biomass pellets such as wood sawdust, wood shavings, wood chips, wood logs, straw, rice husk, coffee husk, bamboo, tea waste, wheat straw, etc. The raw material is renewable and sustainable. They are available locally, so the cost is affordable and predictable. Wood pellets are renewable, clean-burning and cost stable fuel generally made from compacted sawdust or other forestry, agro wastes for heating aim both for homeowners and industrial production. Pellets offer better and more uniform heating properties per unit volume due to their low moisture content. Pellets burn cleaner, have reduced particulate emissions compared with coal, are more economical to transport due to increased bulk density and can be easily produced from wood waste and byproducts.
Biomass pellet fuel is one of the most inexpensive, sustainable, renewable and carbon neutral fuel sources in the word. It is a sustainable resource and require minimal processing for use. The superiority of wood pellets and drawbacks of raw material such as logs are clear to almost all of us. Low moisture content, high bulk density, high fuel value, renewable & eco-friendly characteristics make wood pellets and wood pellet press machine more and more popular on the market. Since wood pellets possess a higher hulk density, they are easy to store, cost less to transport and it also make the fuel more efficient when burning.
Our ring die wood pellet mill and electric flat die wood pellet mill have unparalleled advantages replacing the traditional energy fuel: wood pellet is a kind of a biomass pellet fuel. Development of biomass energy, not only to protect the environment and mitigate climate change, but also to promote sustainable development of agriculture. Wood pellets are mainly used for heating purpose both for homeowners in wood pellet stove & heating furnace, and commercial production in industrial boilers, hot water boilers, biomass power plant, etc. Using biomass energy can replace oil, coal and other traditional energy sources, to reduce annual crude oil imports 11 million ton, saving the equivalent of 2.5 to 3 billion euros, and saving 1,600 million tons of CO2. With good ecological and social benefit, it make great contribution to the country’s energy conservation and emissions reduction. So,wood pellet machine will be realized completely by instead of coal in the future.

industry_corpus2: Agriculture & Fisheries


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Apple’s iPad Pro is being called a replacement for a laptop or desktop by Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook. Earlier this week, Cook made clear that he was not saying that the iPad Pro will replace Macs; it will replace Windows PCs.
In a recent interview with Independent.ie and he said there is no future for a Mac-iPad hybrid device. If Apple isn’t interested in producing a hybrid, there must be a reason behind it.
[Photo by Stephen Lam / Getty Images]Cook went on to articulate the reason for the company’s reluctance to build such a device.
While Apple may think creating a hybrid laptop tablet device would produce a lacking device, that hasn’t stopped others from trying.
Other companies like Lenovo, HP, and ASUS have marketed “2-in-one” computers that are hybrids of a laptop and a tablet. The 2-in-one devices have yet to really captivate consumers.
Cook bashed the Surface Book, calling it a “diluted” device. He said that it’s trying to be a tablet and a notebook but excels at neither. As the Verge noted, Cook has been critical of two-in-ones for sometime. In 2012, he mocked two-in-ones, comparing them to a toaster and a refrigerator being combined.
It is worth noting that iPads have long supported bluetooth-enabled keyboards. This feature makes the iPad more like a laptop, but with all the limitations that come with an iOS device.
Most Apple fans likely have no desire to see a two-in-one Apple device.
In the interview, Cook was also asked about Apple’s future in the auto industry. There have been reports since September that Apple is working on their own electric car. The plans have yet to be confirmed and when asked about it, Cook declined to comment on any possible plans for an Apple electric car.
[Photo by Joe Raedle / Getty Images]Elon Musk, the founder of the high-end electric car brand Tesla casted doubt on Apple’s automobile aspirations. He said that building a car is much different from building a phone or smartwatch.
He also made fun of the fact that Apple has hired several former Tesla employees to help with their car project. Musk said he calls Apple the Tesla graveyard because the people his company fires go and work for Apple.
Musk also said that he thinks it’s a good thing that Apple is investing in the electric vehicle market. Elon Musk’s critical take on the possibility of an electric car produced by Apple is anything but surprising.
With Apple in the ring as an electric car manufacturer, Tesla would have some serious competition that it previously hasn’t had. It’s not clear whether an Apple car would be high-end or not, but Apple will almost certainly have different tiers for its vehicles.


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We go 25th Sept & will have free drinks at dinner. Their website states free drinks from 15th.
Thanks...for your info......looking forward to going.......we arrive on the 11th......free drinks alway that little bit special !
1 Answer Please can anyone advise if the bike hire is free and what the area is like for cycling ?


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Chelsea boss Antonio Conte recently praised his side’s defensive solidity in recent games and rightly so.The Blues have been putting out improved performance at the back recently and one of the reasons for that is Andreas Christensen.
The Dane has been very impressed for Chelsea since coming into the starting XI to replace the injured David Luiz.
He has been composed at the back which has ensured the Premier League Champions did not miss their charismatic Brazilian.
His performances have won him a lot of admirers and according to latest reports, Spanish giants Barcelona are one of such admirers.
The La liga table toppers are known to be looking for defensive reinforcements and are closely monitoring the 21-year old and have been long term admirers of the Denmark international but have been hugely impressed with his growth this season.
Christensen has two and a half years left on his current contract with the London club – who are believed to be set to offer him a new mega deal to keep him a the club and put to rest any rumour of an exit to bed.
Christensen joined Chelsea from Brondy in 2013 and he spent the last two seasons on loan with Borussia Monchengladbach, a move that was hugely beneficial for his development, as is evident from his performances this season.


text: NEW CONSTRUCTION by Payne Family Homes! Enjoy carefree living, exceptional luxury and extraordinary features in this 1,758 sq ft villa in Cordoba, an intimate community of 51 detached villas with abundant common ground, a small private lake with a fountain, walking trail and a community park. The curb appeal is fantastic with brick & stone, a 3 car garage, coach lights, arch shingles, prof landscape, full yard sod & a maintained lawn irrig system. Enjoy 3 BD, 2 BA, an open floor plan, 9' ceilings, a dynamic Kitchen, 42' cabinets w/crown, cabinet hardware, gas FP, Quartz countertops, tile backsplash, under cabinet lighting, a large island, brkfst bar, st steel appliances, wood laminate flooring throughout the main living areas, Jeld Wen Low E windows, raised height bath vanities, walk-in closet in the Mstr, main floor laundry, garage door opener and more. There is easy access to Hwys 364 & 40, shopping, recreation & restaurants. Cordoba has raised the bar on luxury, low maint living!


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If you are planning on holding a volunteer tasks day in our parks or open space you should use this form to let us know.
Please tell us about any conservation or general maintenance activities that you plan to carry out.
You will also need to attach a cover note from your insurance company if you have a private policy.
The council primarily use your data to deal with your request, this may be shared with the police and fire departments and other government departments in accordance with our organisational privacy notice. We never sell your data to third parties or use it to market to you without your consent.
You may also find the following documents helpful when running a task day.


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Enrico Riccardo Morando’s family estate in Castagnole Monferrato, Montalbera, is famous for its production of the relatively unknown but indigenous variety, Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato, known as the 'Red Prince of Monferrato'.
Found in seven neighbouring villages within the Asti province in Piemonte, Ruché refers to both the DOCG, which was granted in 2010, and the variety. The origin of this grape is unknown but it is thought that it was introduced by the Haut Savoie. Its extraordinarily attractive red fruit bouquet with floral hints and elegance secured its place on the Astrum list at the first sip. We are delighted to have these incredible and unique wines from Montalbera, and also to stock our first ever Ruché.
The winery is found at the highest point of the DOCG at 270m above sea level and is completely surrounded by the estates vineyards, meaning the vineyards have a range of different exposures and soil types. The vineyards cover six entire hills, which dip down into a valley cultivated with the traditional Piedmontese hazelnut. The vines vary in age from 7 to 30 years, and are trained in low Guyot trellises. All agricultural work is done by hand. A good 82 hectares are planted with Ruchè, which comprises 60% of the entire production of this appellation. Other planted varieties are Barbera d’Asti, Grignolino, and Viognier.
Montalbera’s philosophy is to let the fruit speak for itself and to share Morando’s passion for the delights of Ruché with the every drinker.


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Bock beer is a classic German lager that is smooth and very drinkable. Traditionally bock was brewed in Winter, so it is appropriate for a winter beer article. This week we take a look at some bock beer recipes and how to brew the classic Bock beer style.
Bock traces its origins back to the town of Einbeck in Northern Germany as early as 1325. The beer of Einbeck was not only popular but widely distributed to Hamburg and Bremen. Lightly kilned wheat and barley was used in the original Einbeck beer, which had only a remote similarity to the modern bock style. Wheat was used for approximately 1/3 of the grain bill, and barley malt made up the rest.
Alas, Einbeck was ravaged by two fires in the 16th century and then suffered greatly in the 30 years war (1618-1648), so little of the original style survives. (Ref: Daniels) In the 16th century, Munich tried to emulate the great beers of Einbeck and started brewing variants that were called “Ainpoeckish Pier”, named in the Bavarian dialect for the city of Einbeck.
Later the name was shortened to “Poeck” and ultimately “Bock”, which means “Goat” in German. In the 1800’s bock enjoyed a resurgence as brewing techniques and science improved. The addition of the hydrometer and thermometer, controlled lagering and other techniques helped dramatically. Bock also spread well beyond Munich to Vienna and throughout Germany.
German immigrants brought Bock to America in the late 1800’s where it, along with Pilsner became popular. Best & Company (later Pabst) became one of the first to brew it broadly in America. (Ref: Daniels) Bock, traditionally quite strong in Europe, was brewed at lower strength after Prohibition in America.
Variants of the bock style include Doppelbock, Maibock, Eisbock, American bock and Weizenbock. Doppelbock means “double bock” and is brewed with a minimum original gravity of 1.074, which is slightly stronger than traditional bock and typically has complex chocolate and caramel flavoring. Maibock, or “May bock” is tapped in the Spring and has a much paler color than traditional bock, and is traditionally made from a mixture of Munich and Pilsner malts.
Eisbock, or “Ice bock” which has a minimum OG of 1.093 is a very strong bock that is highly alcoholic and malty. Though made in the tradition of regular bock and Doppelbock, the strength of the beer approaches that of some barley wines. American bock is made primarily in the Midwest and Texas, are typically somewhat lighter in gravity than traditional German bock and may be a bit less malty in flavor. Weizenbock is perhaps better characterized as a Dunkel-Weizen brewed to bock or Doppelbock strength, and not technically a bock beer. It is composed primarily of around 60% malted wheat with Munich or Vienna malt filling the rest of the grain bill, and fermented with wheat yeast rather than lager yeast.
The modern bock style closely tracks the traditional German style of the last hundred years. Bock has a fairly strong original gravity of 1.064-1.072 and a dark amber to brown color between 14 and 22 SRM. German bocks must have a minimum starting gravity of 1.064. The flavor of the beer is malty with a slight chocolate or toasted edge. Bocks have medium to full bodied profiles, but no roast flavor.
The carbonation is moderate, and hop flavor is minimal. Typically German hops are used to balance some of the maltiness of the beer with an IBU level of 20-27 IBUs. Lager yeast is used along with cold temperature storage (lagering) at temperatures near freezing.
Munich malt makes up the bulk of the grain bill for any Bock. In fact, most traditional Bocks are made from a single Munich malt, with variations in kilning determining the color and character of the finished beer. Daniels recommends using Munich malt for 75-93% of the grist,with pale or lager malt making up the balance. For all grain brewers, this is your best route to an authentic bock. Where possible, choose a two row Munich malt as the base.
Analysis of many award winning homebrewed recipes indicates that crystal and chocolate are often added – especially for the dunkel (dark) bock varieties. Crystal makes up 10-15% of the grain bill and chocolate approximately 2% – primarily to add color.
For extract brewers, try to secure a munich based malt extract if possible, as it is difficult to achieve the proper malty balance without it. Extract recipes often use some crystal or chocolate malt to achieve the appropriate color and body, but these should be used sparingly. If you are brewing a partial mash recipe, the addition of munich and pale malt will add authenticity to the recipe.
Not surprisingly, German hops are used extensively in Bock. Hallertauer hops is the traditional choice for bock, though Tettnanger, Hersbruck or Saaz are occasionally used. Do not use high alpha hops in a bock as it will upset the malty balance. Bock is not a hoppy beer, so the bulk of hop additions are used during the boil for bitterness. Small flavor or aroma additions are OK, but hop flavor and aroma is not a dominant feature in this beer.
The traditional mash schedule for a German bock is a triple decoction, though with modern highly modified grains a double decoction will suffice. Decoction does help to enhance the color and body of the beer to bring out the strong malty profile of a traditional bock. The protein rest should target around 122F, while the main conversion should be done at a slightly higher temperature of 155-156 F (68C) to bring out the desired medium to full body beer profile. A single infusion mash is also an option, again in the 155F range.
Munich water profiles have a high proportion of carbonate which is why hops are sparingly used to avoid harsh bitterness. However, most domestic brewing waters can produce a good bock style since the darker bock malts help provide the proper mash pH balance, and adding carbonate really does not enhance this particular style.
Munich/Bavarian lager yeast should be used for your bock recipe. Cold lagering during fermentation and storage is critical. The fermentation temperature should match the recommended range for your yeast, but fermentation is usually done around 50F. Once fermentation is complete, the actual lagering should take place close to freezing, and continue for 4-10 weeks as these lager yeasts often take some time to flocculate (sediment).
For more recipes, you can visit the BeerSmtih Recipe Site or our discussion forum. Thanks again for visiting the BeerSmith Home Brewing Blog. Don’t hesitate to subscribe for regular weekly email delivery, or drop a few votes for our articles on the BrewPoll brewing news site. I’ll be back again next week with another brewing article.
Thank you for your post, it was very interesting to read. I always like to read and write about this kind of craftsmanship.
Great writeup. I’m curious about where are you getting information about hops in bock? It was my understanding that traditional Bocks contain no added hops, which is why they end up with a sweet malty flavor, and why they are usually marked as “malt liquor” when imported to the US.
Hi – All modern Bocks use hops for bittering to balance out the malt. They have relatively low levels of hops for the amount of malt, but hops is still a critical component. For reference, see the BJCP style guide for various IBU bitterness levels for bocks.
I just bottled a Doppelbock, my first. I used a decoction mash, and it is very, very malty.
I did a diacetyl rest, but I think the fermentation was already finished. I am wondering if the flavor I am tasting is diacetyl, or caramelization from the decoction. BJCP guidelines for Scotch ale suggest that kettle caramelizqation can easily be confused for diacetyl.
I’ve never been very good at detecting diacetyl. Is there some good way to tell the difference?
The article mentions Munich malt for the majority of the grain bill, but the all grain example has Pilsner malt as the base. ??
Regardless, good article, but bad examples.
Pilsner is sometimes used in place of Pale malt in many German and Continental recipes, but I would certainly prefer Munich in my Bock!
Enjoyed the article, i used to bock beers while stationed in Germany. I would like to try home brewing. Where can i research step by step instructions. Chief baker of the household, just need some guidance!


text: I'm selling my iPhone 7 because I upgraded to a new one. It is in prefect condition and comes with the original box which includes the charger and headphones, both unused. I am also throwing in this cool wallet case that holds up to 4 cards and has worked well for me. I am asking for $450 (obo) because it's in such good condition. Thank you, contact me if you have any questions!


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We offer two camp programs for Summer. Please note: Drop In ends with the school year, May 24 in 2019.
If you owe a balance for summer camp, it is due Friday, April 19! Cash or check only, as always, and thank you. Please remember all deposits are non-refundable and cannot transfer to a balance due for another session. If you need a new balance, please email us. May 17 is the last day to withdraw and receive a refund, less any deposits.
Summer Camps in 2019 will begin June 3 and conclude August 9.
Located at the Garden Hills Recreational Center, our camp for ages 3 – 5 is offered in one week increments from June through early- to mid-August. Preschool Camp hours are 9:30am – 1:30pm. Before and after camp care is not available for Preschool Camp. Children must be 3 and fully potty trained by the beginning of camp. One week sessions are priced at $190.00.
The children choose among a variety of activities throughout the day such as arts and crafts, cooking, tumbling, outside games, drama, music, and an optional swim time. You may choose for your child to try a swim test the width of the big pool to be able to use it during swim time, or select “wading pool” on your application.
Haverty Hollow – Frog Hollow Camp 2019: Session 5 is full!
Before and after camp care is available for Frog Hollow. We are open 8am – 6pm. Pay a reduced rate of $16/day/child if you sign up two weeks prior to your session’s start date. Otherwise, our usual drop In rates of $8/hour/child apply to early or late campers not signed up ahead of time.
Frog Hollow sessions are priced at $500 for 2 weeks in 2019.

industry_corpus2: Subject Education


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Upon reading my prior post about my effort to capture the output of one of my Android devices fellow VUC alumni Andreas Dorfer suggested that I try the Elgato Game Capture HD . At first I was reluctant to make yet another purchase in pursuit of this goal, but I eventually caved in ordering one from Amazon for $179.
It arrived today. It took only a few minutes to come to the conclusion that it was not a solution to my problem. While I opened a trouble ticket with the company to pursue the matter, I discovered a FAQ entry claiming that the Nexus 4 always sets the HDCP copy protection flag in the video stream. Thus no downstream device will be able to record the output of the Nexus 4.
What’s unclear to me is whether control of that HDCP flag is done by the Nexus 4 or the SlimPort® SP1002 adapter .
Whatever the case, the Elgato device is being returned. This little pursuit has tried my patience enough for one week.
I hate to admit this, but on December 24th my wife and I went to Best Buy looking for a last minute gift. We decided that her younger brother needed a Tivo. Ours is a three Tivo household, although only TivoHD sees any real use these days. One you get used to having a DVR you want one on every TV, and radio too for that matter.
Though we’d had two SD Tivo units for years when we bought or HDTV we initially got the Time Warner HD-DVR instead of Tivo Series 3. The Tivo Series 3 units were $800 at the time, more than we were willing to pay. That experience was enlightening, like stepping back into the dark ages. What crappy menus, and basically no intelligence at all in the software. The CableCo DVR was simply dreadful.


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I had a reading with Indra recently and in the ease of his presence, he showed me a beautiful blend of astrology and the enneagram. From his lifetime of study and obvious personal experience, he was able to see deep insights into my personal patterned behaviors with the science of Vedic astrology to support the evidence of behaviors and deeply suppressed pain and passion. Being exposed to both systems gave great reasoning into they why's of many aspects of my being, feeling like a helping hand towards the light, of otherwise potential ignorance that may have gone unnoticed for lifetimes. This has revealed to me many gems of my truth which i now have clear access to in a growing awareness of my journey towards THE truth. Indra's gentle, loving nature and his contagious laughter made a very personal reading and look into hidden facets of this mind/body an enjoyable experience of sharing, not the isolating scary place that it can be. Thank you Indra.
Getting a reading with Indra was perhaps the best gift I have ever given myself. By giving me his unique insight into my personal story and astrology and the tools to dig further into what we discovered, I feel stronger and more capable than ever of uncovering the truth of who I really am and more importantly, who I am not. The best part is, this is just the beginning, the worst part is, this is just the beginning. I feel the most grateful I have felt in years.
Thoughts from our conversation continue to resonate with me. I’m watching my triggers closely now and see them for what they are. Your reading has been a fascinating part of the bigger puzzle I’ve been working on and seemed to have come at the perfect time. As I’ve been working on this process with H......, I’ve seen a lot of triggers coming up and emotions I normally would have blamed her for causing I can now see as coming from my pain avoidance programming. Now I’m sitting with those emotions until I can see where I’m feeling threatened and having conversations about it instead of pushing her away.
Keep doing your good work. You’ve got a real talent and a unique approach by focusing on “getting people out of story.” I’ll see if I can find a couple folks here heading to Rishikesh who’d be keen on a reading.
To be honest, I wasn't sure there was going to be any major shift, but after a few weeks back at work I can see that indeed there is a positive change in me. I have been able to recognize triggers and remind myself to stay increasingly present since returning to work. I can now separate from ego and decide to participate or not, instead of withdrawing and/or getting angry and frustrated. My sense of responsibility has shifted and I no longer feel a need to prove something to other people. This was a huge hurdle for me prior to your reading. I feel much more stable and in control of my reactions.
Before this recent India trip I couldn't see any possible way of staying here in Canada, or even in this life. It felt like my job was killing me, sucking the life out of me. I thought that was the problem. I just wanted to run far, far away. But there was a nagging voice inside that kept telling me that might not be the answer, and more annoyingly, that if I can't be happy right here and now then it's highly unlikely I can be happy anywhere. Within a few days of arriving in Rishikesh I knew that running away was not the solution, and for the first time I was able to accept that I would have to actually find a way to just be happy wherever I am. But how?
I've been telling people about my session with you, and have been saying "to be honest, I don't even remember what it was exactly he said, but it changed my life" which sounds a wee bit ridiculous, but it's true. So I finally listened to the entire recording of our session over the weekend. Immediately, I was shocked by the incredible amount of noise in the background, the din of Rishikesh that I don't seem to even notice when I'm there. It amused me to make the correlation that prior to your reading my life had been like that - so much noise in my mind that I couldn't see straight. The wheels were running non-stop searching for the problem to be solved and it always eluded me. Now, instead, there is peace and my life flows more smoothly.
The wisdom from the Enneagram feels like Open Sesame. Without even being fully conscious of the actual lesson, it worked its way through me. I don't get bogged down in the details anymore. I don't need to control things. I can follow direction at work now without making a complete analysis of each request. I don't need my job to fulfill me. It's just a way of funding my life, for now. I no longer need to recover from every foray outside my home. I don't need to be responsible for maintaining every relationship in the universe. I am no longer overwhelmed and exhausted. I can focus on the big picture.
I am returning to school, part-time, to follow my passion, Holistic Natural Nutrition. For the first time in over 15 years I have the energy and clarity to commit to something after work on a regular basis.
I am willing to show up and be affected by life. Mere words cannot express my gratitude, but thank you.


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Monte Cook Games hosted a panel at Dragon Con and TF9W host Jim Ryan was there to capture it. Here it is for your listening pleasure! Stay tuned for some upcoming news about the future of these Cypher system podcasts!
Coming in from a distant recursion, the Translating the Strange crew adds a member and catches up in this latest episode. Host David Wilson Brown leads co-hosts Brandon Ording, Darcy Ross, and Scott Robinson in a discussion about what’s been happening since we last talked. Strange Revelations, Fractals and our own Strange games.
Welcome to the fifth episode of Translating the Strange, the podcast dedicated to the Monte Cook Games RPG The Strange. This episode, hosts David Brown, Brandon Ording, and Darcy Ross interview Strange creator Bruce Cordell, catching up on all the events since the launch of the Strange at GenCon.
Welcome to the fourth episode of Translating the Strange, the podcast dedicated to the new RPG The Strange by Monte Cook Games. Join Host David Brown along with Brandon Ording and Darcy Ross as they talk with game creator Bruce Cordell about the launch of The Strange corebook.

industry_corpus2: Gaming


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Delivering a memorial oration in India recently, Northern Province Chief Minister C. V. Wigneswaran has sought the support of India to secure a federal system in Sri Lanka. In his speech, he has said that they want a true devolution and even an improvement of the 13th Amendment would not do. According to him, the constitution should be changed to replace the unitary system by a federal system which should include the Tamils’ right to self-determination.
Speaking to The Sunday Leader, several politicians expressed mixed views regarding the matter.
India is already involved and connected in the Sri Lankan national issue. India is linked to war and peace in Sri Lanka. As we all know India negotiated with Sri Lanka and got the 13th Amendment.
They also supported the government in war efforts against the LTTE to end the war.
According to the statement of Northern Province Chief Minister C. V. Wigneswaran, I believe that he wants to see the Indian model of federalism in Sri Lanka.
There are 29 states in India and there is a level of powers devolved to each state. According to my understanding, he wants that level of powers devolved to each province in Sri Lanka.
Wigneswaran is the most moderate Tamil leader in the North and without finding faults in him we should learn to work with him.
The TNA has always wanted a federal constitution.
When we were contesting the election, we clearly said in our election manifesto that the TNA intends for a federal constitution.
Northern Provincial Chief Minister C. V. Wigneswaran has spoken on that need to secure the federal system which we have been longing for.
For that purpose, we try our best to mobilize the international community and we have started doing so.
India is one of the signatory countries of the Indo-Lanka Accord and therefore it is important to seek the support of India to secure a federal system in the country that recognizes the Tamil’s rights for self-determination.
We have been on the position that there should not be a federation or federal system with the intention of devolving power.
There needs to be a way that all the nationalities are given their rights on equal grounds but the solution is not a federal system. In order to solve the national issue, the rights of all the nationalities – Sinhala, Tamil or Muslims should be assured on equal grounds.
A federal system has been the topic for the last fifteen years.
But India itself believed that the provincial council system is the best for our country.
It is they who introduced the provincial council system to our country. They cannot now go back in what they convinced us to do.
The provincial council system has worked fine so far in this country.
This is a too small country for a federal system.
I had been in the provincial councils for over 8 years and the powers given to the provincial councils are more than enough to develop the provinces.
If they say the power given to the provinces are not enough, they must be having something else in their mind.
We completely reject the idea of seeking support of another country to change the constitution of our country.
It is up to the Sri Lankan parliament to amend the constitution or introduce a new system.
A constitution in the country reflects the requirements of the people in the country.
It is the decision of the people whether they need a federal constitution or another system.
Another country’s involvement in changing the legislation or the system of the country is completely a violation of sovereignty of the country.
We cannot approve of any such involvement of any other country in changing the constitution of Sri Lanka.
The federal concept is a whole new concept.
A federal concept was first proposed by S. W. R. D. Bandaranayaka but it was opposed at that time.
The current president has gone on record promising to implement 13 Plus.
Before going to demand on a federal constitution, we need to first get him to implement the 13 Plus.
Right now if we go on to demand a federal system nothing will happen.
Even India is committed to see that the 13 Plus is implemented in Sri Lanka.
Federalism is a new concept and we need to start a dialogue about that from the very basics.


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Back to school Time! Will you have a new teen driver this year?
Home > Blog > Back to school Time! Will you have a new teen driver this year?
Having to add a teenage driver to your car insurance policy will raise your rates. But you can control how much they'll climb.
Having teens drive a Camry rather than a Corvette, encouraging them to bring home report cards with straight A's, and urging them to keep their driving records clean can all have a major impact on rates.
They may not like the older car but for parents it is a more economical way to insure a teen.
There is a reason teenagers cost more to insure. New drivers are among the most dangerous on the road, racking up tickets and accidents at rates several times the rate of the average driver.
A teenager does not have to drive. Bicycles and bus passes are cheaper, if you live in a place where that's feasible.
But if it's not, here is what every parent needs to know about the cheapest ways to insure a teenager.
Virtually every insurer will require that all licensed family members in a household be included on your policy, whether they drive your cars or not. You should let the insurer know when the child gets his learners permit, but typically the teen isn't listed (or your policy charged) until he or she is licensed.
If you are divorced and have only part-time custody of your child, you'll have to consult your insurance company. Each company has its own rules. The best case is that the parent with primary custody adds the new driver; the worst case is that both parents do.
The only way to avoid paying the premium for a teenage driver on your own car is a named exclusion. Through an endorsement to your policy, you and your insurer agree that the driver is not covered. Any claim caused by that driver isn't covered, either.
Your teen could insure his or her own car, but state laws governing teen ownership of cars differ widely. In general, a minor cannot own property or sign contracts, such as an insurance agreement, without a parent's consent and signature.
It is almost always cheaper to add teenagers to an existing policy than to exclude them, and then buy an additional car and insure that.
If your household has several cars, it can help to have your new driver assigned to a specific one -- the one that's cheapest to insure. A bigger, faster engine costs more money to insure and more money to repair.
And just having a car with a powerful engine can be a temptation for young drivers. Instead, four-door sedans and crossover vehicles are a better choice for a young driver in your household.
If your teen can't get by without wheels, check with your insurer to see what types of discounts might be available.
In 2010 a survey revealed almost 1,500 parents of teens between the ages of 15 and 19 found their auto insurance costs soared an average of $800 a year just by adding a teenager to their policy.
Many auto insurers offer good-student discounts to teens who maintain at least a "B" average.
And as with adults, the cleaner the driving record, the lower the insurance costs.
If your teen is old enough to head off to college, lives more than 100 miles from home and doesn't have a car, you're also likely to get a break on your auto insurance. That's because the teen isn't a regular operator of the vehicle, but still can drive it when he or she comes home on break.
Several insurance companies offer monitoring devices that keep an eye on your teen's driving behavior. That may mean sending you a notification if your teen does something he or she is not supposed to do; providing the teen with verbal feedback; or transmitting video of the driving using a two-way camera.
Depending on the system installed, it might monitor certain specified behaviors, like speeding, seat belt usage, hard braking and cornering, arrival and departure times, or moving the car when it isn't running.
With these systems installed some companies offer auto insurance discounts of up to 15 percent.
Another option is technology that blocks cell phone calls and text messages when a vehicle is in motion and is aimed at preventing distracted driving.
And Ford has introduced MyKey on some vehicles, which can be programmed to limit a vehicle's top speed or the volume of audio devices.
Parent should look into all these options and decide what will be the best fit for their family.


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Plainfield, IL – The Mark Batinick campaign for 97th State Representative District is proud to announce the endorsements of several local and state officials.
“I am so honored to have the endorsement of so many reform-minded elected officials and leaders. They understand that we need to focus on job creation, cutting taxes and waste to help bring smart government to Springfield,” stated Mark Batinick.
State Representative David McSweeney says, "I'm confident that Mark will fight for lower taxes, less spending and real reform."
Mark Batinick is running for the Illinois House Representative seat currently held by Tom Cross. Representative Cross announced in mid-September that he will be pursuing the office Illinois State Treasurer.


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Some words remain etched on your mind no matter when you read them. That’s the power of words. I particularly believe in these words of Paulo Coelho – “When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you achieve it.” That’s perhaps what had lead me to believe that if you truly want something (and if you work for it), it will definitely happen.
Our instincts are often right. When we tend to ignore it, we end up making a mistake. However, when your intuition fails in certain rare instances, you look for signs that help you decide whether you should go for something or not. Remember how you spend all day wondering where to travel for your next holiday and you suddenly see an advertisement of a traveler enjoying his stay in Switzerland. It looks like the world is try to tell you something.
Being hungry on a weekend is extremely dangerous. When Zomato and Swiggy are just a touch away, things could get complicated if you act on an impulse. The consequences are frightening. So we should exercise utmost caution, and also perhaps (senior) adult supervision , while adding items to our cart.
I don’t cook the most Instagram-worthy meals every weekend, but roughly plan it on Fridays to avoid spending 2 hours discussing what to cook. I avoid cooking more than 2 meals a day, so apart from breakfast and lunch we normally eat out once a week or head over to mom’s place for some cozy meal. So the main meals are taken care of. It’s the cravings between the meals that tend to push me towards Zomato or Swiggy.
On one such weekend, my husband and I quickly finished our weekend chores and settled to eat a nice healthy, home-cooked meal. Things were fine till my mind started asking for something more. No, I didn’t want another serving of what we were eating. This time the call was for something sweet or crispy, something which people would not consider healthy. When I told my husband about this, he asked me to order online as he was scared I would then ask him to cook something. I was furious with him for letting me cheat so easily and told him he should help me in times like these when I was craving for junk food.
I wasn’t sure if I welcomed this unexpected testing of my will power (not really sure if I had any in the first place!). I tried to divert myself with some movie and switched on the TV. Tata Sky told me I could subscribe to some new food channel. Strike 1. I wanted to stay away from all cookery shows and in the random channel I switched to, Sanjeev Kapoor was revealing the secrets behind making a very appetizing biryani. Strike 2. You know how you go someplace and the first person you bump into is the person you wanted to avoid. That’s exactly how it felt. Anyway, I was scanning through the channels checking for a decent movie and settled for a movie on Romedy Now- No Reservations. Guess what the hero and the heroine did? They were chefs at this amazing restaurant and they were whipping up mouth-watering dishes and even delectable desserts. Strike 3.
I could bear it no longer and finally gave in. I usually decide quickly and in a matter of seconds, I set my mind on having an ice cream. We headed to Amadora, our favourite ice cream place in Chennai and treated ourselves to some delicious flavours of ice creams (dark chocolate sorbet and salted caramel).
There is a limit to the temptations a human being can resist. And when it comes to foodies like me, it doesn’t take much effort to get tempted. Initially I choose to ignore my instincts which was telling me to satiate my cravings. However there were obvious signs everywhere that were impossible to ignore. I knew the world was trying to tell me something. How could I not listen to what it was trying to convey? It’s important that we follow the orders of the world. I was pretty sure these messages were intended for me. Wondering how I’m that confident? You see, while some eat to live, I belong to the group which lives to eat!
So, watch out for these signs. You never know how the world might try to help you.


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Tell me what you like to see, and create your own trip! Follow your own wishes!
If you want to relax, or go on adventure, visit the “must-see’s”, or go off the beaten track, choose your own tour in Yogyakarta and get inspired by all the possibilities.
Contact me, without any obligation, for advice. If you have specific preferences and wishes (sports, hobbies, dance, cooking, history etc) let me know, and I can advise you the best places to visit.
The Borobudur is the biggest and oldest Buddhist temple in the world. UNESCO recognised the Borobudur as World Heritage Site. In 1814 the Borobudur was rediscovered after the temple was hidden; covered under ashes and vegetation for hundreds of years. The temple is still full of mysteries.
During restorations in the 1970s sculptured reliefs at the large base floor were brought to light. It is said that these reliefs were always meant to be hidden, in “the hidden foot” of the stupa, to prevent you from being tempted to earthly desire.
About 1250 years ago, the Borobudur was built close to where the rivers Ello and Progo meet, and a hill called “Tidar”. It is said that this hill is the place, where the gods ‘nailed’ the island of Java to the earth, to prevent the island from sinking or floating away.
The temple is shaped as a stupa and built around a hill. If you count well, you can count 504 statues of Buddha. The walls consist of 2672 sculptured reliefs. In total, if arranged in a row, these sculptures have a length of 5 km. There are 72 bell-shaped stupa’s encircling the central stupa. Some of these stupa’s contain a Buddha statue, some are empty, and some statues are decapitated. In the past centuries, some statues and buddha heads were stolen and ended up in museums far away, or in the homes of the rich. There is a legend that if you can touch the Buddha with his legs crossed, any wish you have will be granted.
The central stupa at the top of the Borobudur can only be entered by Buddist monks. Don’t be afraid, you won’t miss much; this stupa represents eternity and is therefore empty.
Close to the Borobudur there are two other temples named Pawon and Mendut temple. These temples are part of the Borobudur World Heritage Site. The three temples are built in a straight line. During the Buddhist Vesak-festival, Buddhist in Indonesia walk from the Mendut temple, passing the Pawon temple and end at the Borobudur to celebrate “Buddha’s birthday”.
In Mendut temple we will find three big Buddhist statues from the 9th century. We can also visit the Buddhist monastery where the Buddhist monks are studying their religion. At the Mendut temple, couples who would like to have children, pray for good luck. At the Pawon temple we only find the temple, there are no statues in there. On the outside we find a beautiful waringin tree.
To see the sunrise at the Borobudur is an beautiful experience. But to see the Borobudur floating in the mist at sunrise, is a unique view, and a less common way to experience the magical atmosphere of the Borobudur. Off the beaten track and a spectacular experience, Punthuk Setumbu offers you a great and mystical panoramic views, early in the morning. Every minutes the rays of the rising sun will change the atmosphere. You cannot stop taking pictures, thinking the view cannot get better. The best time to arrive is around 5.30 in the morning , so you have to leave Yogyakarta around 3.30 h. Real early, but most certainly worth it.
When the sun is up, and the villages are awake, you can catch some adrenaline, and try the swing, to enjoy the beautiful landscape in a different way!
The Prambanan is a Hindu temple complex which was also recognised in 1991, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Prambanan is built in the same period (around the year 850) and is located close to the Borobudur temple, which proves that on Java, Buddhism and Hinduism lived peacefully next to one another.
The Prambanan complex consists of three main temples (up till 47 meters high) and three smaller temples. The three main temples represent the Hindu gods Brahma (creator), Shiva (destroyer) and Vishnu (sustainer) and the three smaller temples are dedicated to the animals these gods used for their transportation: a goose, a bull and an eagle.
Next to the six bigger temples there are many smaller temples. Up till today not all of the 224 little temples are restored yet. You can still walk between the ruins and stones from the smaller temples. Imagine how the complex would have looked like 1250 years ago!
The Prambanan temple is still mystical. Locally Prambanan is known as “Roro Jonggrang” after a legend that Javanese people tell about the temple.
Once there was a man named Bandung Bondowoso who fell in love with Roro Jonggrang. Roro Jonggrang was not pleased with his love, and to be able to refuse his love, she asked him to do something that seemed impossible: to build her a temple with 1000 statues, in just one night. But Bandung Bondowoso’s love for her was so strong, that he almost fulfilled her wish. Afraid she had to keep her promise, Roro Jonggrang asked the villagers to pound rice (a traditional dawn activity) and set a fire (to imitate the sunrise) in order to pretend the morning had broken. Bandung Bondowoso who stopped building, assuming the night was over, only completed 999 statues, felt cheated and cursed Jonggrang to be the thousandth statue.
Prambanan also has panels of relief, describing the story of Ramayana. Experts say that the relief is similar to the story of Ramayana that is told orally from generation to generation.
The Merapi is one of the most active vulcanoes of the world. The Merapi is (based on old legends) closely connected to Yogyakarta. “Merapi” means “mountain of fire” The Merapi is considered a sacred mountain. The vulcano is 2968 meters high. On the Merapi you find beautiful nature and beautiful views. Yogyakarta is situated at the foot of the volcano Mount Merapi. When the city was established in 1755 the Kraton (palace) of the Sultan was built in line with the Merapi to be in the centre of the power/spirits. In 2010 Yogyakarta was covered with ashes after an eruption. Many people living on the mountain had to be evacuated. You can still visit the affected villages and be impressed by the power of the mountain.
On the Merapi, next to the spectacular jeep tours, you will find a small museum and remembrance sites. The people who used to live in the destroyed villages, now run the museum and the jeep tours on the mountain. So by visiting these sites, you not only get impressed by the power and beauty of the vulcano, but you also support the local people who lost everything they owned in the eruption.
Besides a lot of adrenaline, we will find the “alien stone” (a stone which looks like an alien) where we can take pictures. We will see the houses destroyed by the fierce heat clouds from the Merapi and the bunker which was designed to provide shelter when the heat clouds were coming from the Merapi.
Untill 2010, Mbah Maridjan, an old man, was the spiritual guardian of the Merapi. He was appointed by the Sultan of Yogyakarta, and lived almost on the top of the vulcano. For his job he was paid a symbolic $1 a month. He was in touch with the spirits of the mountain and led ceremonies to appease the spirits of the vulcano by offerings of rice and flowers in and around the crater. He described his job, as: “Let the vulcano breathe, not to cough.” In 2010 when thousands of people had to be evacuated and more than 300 people were killed in an eruption, Mbah Maridjan felt it was his duty to stay on the mountain and, at the age of 83, he was one of the victims.
On about one hour drive from Yogyakarta we find the ancient Vulcano Nglangeran, located in Gunungkidul.
The ancient vulcano Nglanggeran used to be active until a 60 million years ago it is one of the oldest vulcanoes in Central Java. It started as an rock under the sea which rose above the surface during a vulcanic eruption. The mountain was formed by old vulcanic material and has two peaks namely the Western and Eastern peak with a caldera in the middle.
Mount Nglanggeran is easy to climb. Only a 1,5 hour walk, through the beautiful landscape of UNESCO-Geopark Gunung Kidul will lead you to the Western peak.
Based on old traditions only seven families are allowed to live on the mountain. If there are more families, one of the families has to leave, if there are not enough, a family needs to be found to join the community of seven families. If there are more or less than seven families it will cause bad luck.
At Nglanggeran we have a beautiful view over the landscape, the unique shaped mountains, and the skies of clouds.
There are many spots, and platforms build in the trees, on which you can relax and enjoy this beautiful place. Not only children will enjoy climbing to these tree-platforms….
Combine enjoying the beautiful and unique limestone landscape of Gunung Kidul with fun. Cool down while tubing down the river. A relaxed way to see the caves and riversides. The trip is easy, relaxed and safe and also suitable for children and the elderly. In about an hour, you follow the river while sitting in a tube. You will travel through the caves (with bats sleeping at the roof) and will admire the stalactites and stalagmites, stone pillars formed by water dripping or flowing from fractures in the ceiling of the cave. A relaxed way to cool down, and enjoy nature. How easy can life be?
Yogyakarta has many beautiful beaches, which are not well known to foreign tourists. Enjoy the quiet and calm beaches to relax and cool down in the sea-breeze and water. But be careful, Ratu Kidul (the queen of the sea) rules here and even well trained swimmers cannot go too deep, because of the strong current. Check the colour of your clothes before your leave…the story goes that Ratu Kidul doesn’t like the colour green..
Explore the Kidang Kencong Cave with a guide. Hidden in the green scenery, North West of Yogyakarta-city, you will experience the real back-to-nature-spirit.
With helmets and flashlights you will find beautiful stalactites and stalagmites, like you are the first to discover the cave. If you like an experience of the beaten track, and are not afraid of adventure, visit the Kidang Kencong cave!
Tebing Breksi is an artifically shaped limestone rock, which unintentially remained in the landscape, after years of mining. The limestone hills in this area are formed by the ancient ashes of the vulcano Nglanggeran in Gunung Kidul.
Local artists have sculptured interesting and beautiful sculptures in the walls of the cliff, and stairs make it easy for visitors to climb the rock.
Together with the Ijo temple, Tebing Breksi is located at the highest place of Yogyakarta. This creates an amazing view over the city, the Merapi, the Ijo temple, and the Ratu Boko temple. In the morning you can enjoy the sunrise, in the evening a unique sunset.
The Ijo temple is close to Tebing Breksi. In Javanese Ijo means “green”. The temple was built around the ninth century and is located 410 meter above the sea level. You can see a beautiful scenery and enjoy the view. The complex of the temple consists of 17 buildings. It is said that some inscriptions in the temple contain magic spells or curses, which are written 16 times.
In the evenings, the Ramayana story comes to life. More than 200 professional dancers and musicians perform in the city of Yogyakarta or in the open air theatre with the illuminated Prambanan Temples as the background.
A story about love, war and mystical events. A young princess is kidnapped by an evil demon. Her lover his brother and a monkey, take action to save her. The costumes, the dance, music and atmosphere, will enchant you. It will be a magical night.
The theatre provides a summary of the Ramayana story on paper in different languages, and on screens the story is told as well, to make sure you fully understand the ballet. If you are travelling to Indonesia from November-April you can watch the Ramayana ballet performance at the Prambanan indoor theater. If you travel in the dry season you can enjoy the ballet in the open air theatre.
South of the city you find Bukit Bintang, a beautiful place to watch the sunset.
After the sunset you can be amazed by the stars and city lights, far beneath you. A beautiful place to have (simple) dinner, relax and enjoy the romantic atomospere.
In the city you can visit the Kraton (Sultan’s palace), Tamansari (the water palace) the colorful bird market, many museums, Malioboro street (shopping area), the Batik and Silver industry and many more interesting places.
Yogya is a city with many students, which also accounts for a young and vivid vibe in the city. The people of Yogya are friendly and always willing to help. Visitors most certainly feel welcome. Yogya has great shopping centres, hotels, reataurants and offers a good range of tourist services.
The Palace of the Sultan, is also known as the Kraton. The Sultan of Yogyakarta still lives here today. The Kraton serves as a cultural centre for the Javanese people and accommodates a museum with the sultanate’s antiquities. The Kraton was built in 1755-1766 after a treaty between Prince Mangkubumi and the Dutch VOC. The place where the Kraton was built, was picked carefully and is based on a philosophy: the important places of the city are built on a straight imaginary line. This straight line starts from Parangtritis beach, then leads to the Kraton, then to the main street of the old city, to Tugu Monument, and finally ends at Mount Merapi. This represents the relationship of the city with the guardian spirits of the Merapi and the beach of Parangtritis. Tugu Yogyakarta is the symbol of unification between the king and the people.
In 1812 the Kraton was attacked by a British force of Stanford Raffles and burned down. Most of the Kraton was rebuilt by Sultan Hamengkubuwono VIII, who reigned from 1921 to 1939.
The Kraton can be visited every morning. On certain days you can visit special ceremonial performances; like Gamelan, dance and puppet performances.
Taman Sari (Water Palace), a remarkable complex of bathing pools that was built in 1765 for the first Sultan of Yogyakarta. One of the bathing pools was dedicated to the sultan’s harem, the Sultan overlooked the pool from a tower, so he could easily choose his company.
Next to Taman Sari we find a beautiful underground mosque.
The kota gede is a historic neighborhood, now famous for its silver crafts. Visit a small silver workshop and see how silver jewelry is made as it was made for hundreds of years. Visit a batik factory where you can see the whole process of the batik making as it was taught generation to generation.
Vredeburg is the old Dutch colonial fortress in the centre of Yogyakarta, now converted into a museum about the independence struggle. It was built in 1765, to make it easier for the Dutch to control the city. The castle was given the name “Rustenburg”. After the earthquake in 1867 is was destroyed and rebuilt with the name “Vredeburg” (castle of peace) to emphasize the intentions of peace.
The front of the kraton faces the Merapi and has a big square in front of it, the alun-alun. The story is told that at the backsite of the kraton another alun-alun was created to make sure the mystical Queen of the Southern Sea was not offended. This square is called the alun- alun kecil (the small square) or alun- alun kidul (the southern square).
The alun-alun kecil is used by the army of the kraton to work out. In the evening from 17.00 hours the place is a meeting place for the people of Yogyakarta. The children play with kites, and blow soap bubbles. You can rent a beautiful decorated luminated bicycle-cart and cycle around the square, just for the fun of it. At the sides of the square you can sit down on mats and order typical Javanese snacks.
In the middle of the alun-alun there are two banyan trees. It is said that only those having pure hearts and who don’t have bad intentions can walk pass the banyan trees. People are blindfolded and try to walk straight for about 20 meters to pass in between the two trees. It is not only nice to try, also nice to watch all the people trying: it is more difficult than it seems and many people don’t reach the trees. Symbolically the game reflects the message that we all have to do our best to keep our heart pure, to achieve our goals.