text:
Tel: 020 8316 5572

Product Code: WAM250_XU

Now £49.99

This product is not available to buy online at this time. Please contact us on 020 8316 5572 for more information.

With this WAM250XU wireless Samsung speaker hub you can listen to music anywhere in your home with ease.

Simply place the speakers wherever you want to play tunes and control easily using your Smartphone or tablet.

Select which track you fancy listening to and choose which speaker you want to play it on. As well as being able to play all your tracks wirelessly, you can also use online streaming services.

With party modes you can play music across your entire home. All you need is this handy hub to connect all your speakers and devices.

A Convenient Way of Listening

Whether you have an apartment or three storey house, wireless audio hubs are the simplest way to access music from anywhere in the home.

You can easily add more speakers and grow your audio system when it suits you.

Get the perfect boost before you start your day by listening to the latest tracks in your kitchen at breakfast time.

Your music can then follow you around the house as you get ready, and be waiting for you when you get home and want to wind down.

Simple Installation

The Samsung WAM250XU can be set up quicker than any other speaker hub. This top brand has designed a simple three-step installation system, so you can enjoy your favourite tunes in minutes.

Simply connect the hub with your router then wirelessly pair it with your speakers and devices. This streamlined connection process is quick and hassle-free.

Forget messy cables cluttering your home, all your music can be accessed from any room at any time with the touch of a button.

The stylish, solid design with nifty controls also adds a modern touch to any living area.

Take advantage of the latest audio technology and enjoy a convenient way of listening to music with the Samsung speaker hub.

Colour Black
Height 2.5 cm
Width 10 cm
Depth 10.6 cm
Weight 100 g
Whats in the box Wireless Audio Multiroom HubLAN CableUser Manual
Additional Information Wireless LAN: Built-in (2.4 / 5 GHz Dual Band)Ethernet: 2 eaMultiroomOperating Power Consumption: 10WFree Voltage: Yes
Application/Usage SpeakerTVPCSmartphoneTablet
Compatibility Samsung M Series speakersSamsung Smart TVs (2014)Samsung 7 Series Home Entertainment SystemSamsung 7 Series soundbars


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Super Street Network

 |   |  2006 Mazdaspeed6 Review - First Drive
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2006 Mazdaspeed6 Review - First Drive

Mar 1, 2005
0503_sccp_01_z+2006_mazdaspeed6_first_drive+mazdaspeed_front_view Photo 1/1   |   2006 Mazdaspeed6 Review - First Drive

Yank the emergency brake in the new Mazdaspeed6 at speed and the car's all-wheel-drive system automatically disengages drive to the rear wheels. The fact that this ham-fisted, ass-out, "Dukes of Hazzard" buffoonery was a design consideration is Mazda's way of saying it cares.

The "zoom-zoom" Mazda6, whose superb chassis and eager V6 have inspired positive reviews and solid sales, has nonetheless fought for parking spaces among the enthusiast population.

Mazda invited us to hammer on early prototypes of the new Mazdaspeed6 at the 1.7-mile TI Circuit in Okayama, Japan. Home to two F1 races in the mid-'90s and a favored JGTC track, TI Circuit offers flat-out sweepers and long straights with several hairpins. Its liquid-black pavement is smoother than R Kelly, but didn't offer the real-world driving conditions we need to wholly evaluate a proper all-wheel-drive sedan.

That's right, all-wheel drive. And that V6? It's gone too, in favor of a turbocharged version of Mazda/Ford's 2.3-liter inline four. The heart of the Mazdaspeed6 is the most powerful Mazda engine currently in production.

Mazda, which until recently suffered with relatively low-tech piston engines, revamped its entire line with an infusion of technology. The basic architecture of the Mazdaspeed6's 2.3-liter is shared with the inline, aluminum MZR four also used in the Mazda3, but features a host of Mazda's newest technologies.

Most notably, fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber with Mazda's Direct Injection Spark Ignition (DISI) system. Direct injection, which reaps performance, emissions and fuel economy benefits in normally aspirated engines, pays even bigger dividends when coupled with forced induction. Injecting gasoline directly into the combustion chamber cools the charge, increasing boost response, low and midrange torque production, and allowing for a high compression ratio and healthy boost due to better knock resistance.

The Mazdaspeed6 brings 15.6 psi to bear on 9.5:1 compression pistons, barely down from the 9.7:1 pistons found in the naturally aspirated engine. Mazda chose a Hitachi turbocharger using Borg Warner internals. This small unit contributes to the engine's excellent torque production and throttle response, and its small thermal mass shortens catalytic converter light-off time for improved cold-start emissions.

Although the engine redlines at 6700 rpm, it has little to give after 6000, where it feels like the little turbo simply runs out of headroom. It does, however, provide nearly 100 percent of its claimed 280 lb-ft of torque from just 2500 rpm, and remains flat until 5500 rpm, where the engine makes its peak horsepower figure of 274. Mazda claims a 0-to-60 sprint of 6.6 seconds, which is a bit pessimistic.

Interestingly, the intercooler sits directly on top of the valve cover. Mazda argues the cooler intake charge resulting from direct injection still meets efficiency targets with the intercooler in this location. It's no secret this positioning also significantly reduces flow through the core, makes packaging the engine easier and production cheaper.

But efforts were made to get air through the intercooler. A trick, two-piece ram-air duct supplies fresh high-pressure air at speed. The intercooler is housed in a box, which seals against molded plastic ductwork attached to the underside of the hood. Ram air nostrils draw air from under the leading edge of the hood.

The exhaust note is well tuned inside the cabin, but from the outside sounds like a linebacker exhaling through a cocktail straw-backpressure in D flat. Engineers hinted the engine endured extended bouts with more than 15.6 psi during testing with no ill results; a stiffer block, forged crankshaft and steel connecting rods offer proper credentials.

There is certainly power to be had from uncorking the exhaust. But once power figures start growing, the issue of whether the aftermarket can meet the challenge of a necessary bump in fueling, given the complexity of the ultrahigh-pressure direct-ignition fuel system, remains.

In a direct injection engine, the injectors can only fire during the compression stroke vs. constantly in an engine with port injection, which may explain some of the softness we felt after 6000 rpm as injectors struggled to inject more fuel in less time.

Our best advice is to use conventional auxiliary injectors in the manifold for added fueling once beyond the capacity of the DI system. Combine those with a front-mount intercooler and larger turbo and you'll have a legitimate powertrain capable of serious numbers.

Mazda gets big kudos for its newly developed six-speed manual transmission whose compact three-shaft design keeps dimensions equal to those of the five-speed model. Double- and triple-cone synchronizers, some of which are made from high-carbon steel, combine to create smooth and positive shift action. Wide gear ratios take advantage of the engine's prodigious torque output and provide decent fuel economy, in the neighborhood of 27 mpg on the highway.

Mazda worked with LUK to create the Active Torque Split All-Wheel-Drive System that uses an electro-mechanical clutch pack with a water-cooled "power take-off unit" to feed up to 50 percent of torque to the rear wheels. The system uses sensors that measure g-forces, yaw, throttle position, wheel speed and steering position to apportion torque.

It features three automatic modes, which are not manually selectable: Normal, Sport and Snow. Under normal driving conditions, 100 percent of engine output is fed through the front axles. Start making lateral demands and the Sport mode instructs a three-piece rear-drive shaft to twist into a Tochigi-Fuji manufactured rear limited-slip differential (the same type found in the RX-8). The sport mode is smart enough to hold the 50/50 split through the exit of a corner to aid in rotation. The front differential is open. In Snow mode, the clutch pack locks torque split at 50/50.

Chassis rigidity was increased by 50 percent over the Mazda6's, whose chassis is no Gummy worm. High-tensile steel was added to areas like the cross member, cowl and rear diagonal braces, with increased numbers of joints and gussets. This extra bracing, combined with the all-wheel-drive system, adds around 330 pounds; the car should arrive at around 3,500 pounds.

Increased rigidity pays dividends in ride and especially in high-speed stability, one of the Mazdaspeed6's strengths. We whipped through a lane-change chicane on the back straight at stupid velocities with utmost confidence.

Monotube, rather than twin-tube dampers, feature larger diameter shafts and more aggressive valving controls springs that are 25 percent stiffer in the front and 37 percent in the rear. Anti-roll bar diameter increased by 1mm in the front and 2mm in the rear, and front lower wishbones and rear multilink bushings use harder durometer rubber. The installation of the AWD system necessitated a slightly higher ride height than the standard 6.

The TI circuit was soaked during the morning session, which tested the 215/45-18 Bridgestone Potenzas as much as the car's AWD system. Mounted on 18x7-inch wheels, the tires get fully utilized. While the car isn't necessarily undertired, it feels like more rubber would be a plus. In the wet, the Mazdaspeed6 employed understeer as its primary defense against excessive speed. No matter how hard and sideways we threw the car into a corner, mashing the power just encouraged safe understeer. We were told wet handling will be adjusted to make the car more driveable.

When faced with a dry track, the Mazdaspeed6 demonstrated an entirely different character. It was drawn toward the apex by the gentle persuasion of a left foot on the brake pedal, and all that torque made it easy to stream out of corners both fast and slow. We didn't experience as much power-on rotation as we expected given the torque split and rear limited-slip.

Although the car features an electronic throttle, there is no penalty for overlapping the throttle and brake pedal. The Mazdaspeed6 is a comfortable, willing partner that's happier to help you safely exit a compromising corner rather than punish you for a talent deficit.

Single-piston calipers remain at all four corners, but discs have grown to a healthy 12.6 inches in the front and 12.4 inches in the rear. ABS remains standard. The Mazdaspeed6 had no problem hauling down repeatedly from license-revoking velocities, but the cars we drove were fitted with prototype track-duty pads that will be available through Mazdaspeed. We'll have to wait for a production car to pass final judgement.

Aesthetic enhancements, just like the mechanical bits, are integrated: All the sheet metal forward of the A-pillar is new. The fenders are flared to fit larger rollers, and the hood is 45mm taller to fit the top-mount intercooler. A new rear bumper incorporates the dual exhaust tips and even a functional diffuser; a mild spoiler sits on the trunk.

The Mazdaspeed6 looks both aggressive and elegant, exactly the duality that defines the car's essence. Still, with this much body revision we can't help but question whether cost savings were realized in production by the top-mount intercooler.

Inside the car, three-way power semibucket seats are more supportive than those in the regular 6, but still need additional bolstering, especially in the shoulder area. Upmarket touches include an adjustable tilt-and-reach steering wheel, chrome-ringed gauges, new center console and upgraded soft-touch materials.

The Mazdaspeed6 should be in showrooms by the end of April. Expect a price tag starting in the neighborhood of $28,000. Mazda has a successful habit of entering niches it creates itself or convinces us we need, and no one dares enter the STi-vs.-EVO fray, including Mazda.

The Hiroshima-based manufacturer hopes its blend of serious performance, sophistication and affordability offer an enticing alternative to a segment dominated by BMWs, Audis and Mercedes, and perhaps to those for whom the edge on the rally-bred monsters is too hard.

We look forward to time with the Mazdaspeed6 on the street. You can expect a road test soon.

2006 Mazdaspeed6Estimated Price: $27,000EngineEngine Code: MZRType: Inline four, aluminum block and headValvetrain: DOHC, four valves per cylinder, direct injectionDisplacement: 2261ccBore x Stroke: 87.50mmx94.00mmCompression Ratio: 9.5:1Claimed Crank Hp: 274 hp @ 5500 rpmClaimed Crank Torque: 280 lb-ft @ 3300 rpmRedline: 6700 rpm

DrivetrainLayout: Transverse front engine, all-wheel drive

TransmissionGear Ratios 1st Gear: 3.538:12nd Gear: 2.238:13rd Gear: 1.535:14th Gear: 1.171:15th Gear: 1.085:16th Gear: 0.853:1Final drive: 1st-4th 3.611:1, 5th-6th 3.095:1Differential: Open (F), electronically controlled clutch pack (C), variable torque-type limited slip (R )

ChassisExterior dimensions Curb Weight: 3500 lbs (approx.)Weight Distribution F/R: 60/40Overall Length: 187.6 in.Wheelbase: 105.3 in.Overall Width: 70.1 in.Track F/R: 60.6 in.Height: 56.3 in.

Suspension Front: Upper and lower control arms, anti-roll barRear: One upper and two lower control arms, twist-plate longitudinal link, anti-roll bar

BrakesFront: 13.4-in. vented discs, single-piston sliding calipersRear: 12.6-in. vented discs, single-piston sliding calipers

Wheels And TiresWheels: 18x7-inch aluminumTires: 215/45-18 Bridgestone Potenzas

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A Conducive Environment

“The quality and variety of follow-up mechanisms to embed the learning has been spot on, and welcomed by all managers and directors in our business. James has gained a reputation for being a strong L&D partner “ AD, HR Director

In many ways it is what happens after the training that most determines how effectively the training objectives will be met.

  • Do participants have the opportunity to put their sharpened skills and knowledge into practice?
  • Are line managers supportive of participants as they sustain the training?
    • Encouraging the inherent risk in using a new or different approach
    • Understanding that initially things may take longer, and even go wrong
    • Helping to identify the less-obvious situations where the training can be applied
    • Providing encouragement and feedback appropriately and constructively
  • Will participants take advantage of the follow-up coaching that is included in their training?

Follow-up coaching has been shown to multiply the benefit of training by a factor of four 1, because it creates higher motivation and confidence to achieve goals

The role of the line manager is pivotal in fully realising the individual and organisational benefits of the training. For larger programmes it is well worthwhile having a pre- and post-training workshop with managers to work on creating the initial motivation and the right subsequent conditions for the training to take grip.

References :
1. Olivero, Bane & Kopelman 1997


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We're not all about film and video production if you have seen our work over the past few years. We also love photography, and recently we did a short hike up Mt. Tam State Park in San Francisco to study some mushrooms growing in the wild and watch the sunrise over the San Francisco Bay.

Shot on iPhone X

There's nothing short of inspiring than walking at night up a mountain and stop to see the slow sunrise over the city.

Shot on our A7Rii and a 90mm lens

We don't go foraging that often, but we were happy to have someone in our group who understood the different subtleties in mushroom varieties, and it was incredible to photograph up close some of these amazing creations of nature.

Macro shot with our 90mm macro lens and the A7Rii

Macro shot with our 90mm macro lens and the A7Rii

The intricate details of each mushroom are a wonder to behold and photograph to say the least. Notice how all the different details, color and shape, emerge so organically from these little beings.

A7Rii and 90mm Macro

A7Rii and 90mm Macro

As usual, feel free to check out Afonso's 500px profile or Photoshelter for more photo stories, or to buy any of these prints.

And yes, we even do corporate headshots, so it's not only mushrooms all the time...

Cotton Drone

As part of our most recent shoot with Allianz and Spectrecom Films in London, we wanted to share some of our favorite shots we filmed with our Inspire 2 for this commercial shoot.

Take a look at the video below, all filmed with the DJI Inspire 2 and either the 15mm or 42mm Olympus lessens, for some incredibly cinematic results.

The weather was really windy, so you can definitely see some drifting, but these are also not the final shots to be used in the commercial. Stay tuned!

We just completed a week-long film shoot with our friends from Spectrecom Films in London, UK, and Allianz Global Investors.

Allianz hired Spectrecom to create a commercial film for one of their most recent projects, and Spectrecom chose us to help them out with the shoot in cinematography, logistics and aerial/drone captures.

We had an amazing shoot, using the C300mk2 as the main camera, some great lighting supplies by Kinoflo and Litepanels, our very own Inspire 2 for aerial shots, and a lot of other gear.

Check out the shoot photos below taken by the ever-useful iPhone X. The video will be completed and launched by the end of the year, so stay tuned here for updates.

iPhone X

We've been wanting to see what the new iPhone X is able to do in photography and video, so we couldn't be more excited to challenge ourselves (and anyone else who wants to join) this coming Saturday, November 4th.

An all-day photo walking tour of San Francisco, through the eyes of the new iPhone X.

If all goes according to plan we'll be setting up an iPhone X this coming Friday, and we'll be taking off to do a walkabout of San Francisco, starting at sunrise until we complete a full walking circle of the city.

Starting in the Haight Ashbury district, and traversing the diverse neighborhoods and sights of San Francisco, we want to limit ourselves to using the iPhone all day long to take photos, film some videos, and edit everything as we go. We're expecting to walk all day long, doing the whole waterfront and finishing off by walking through Golden Gate Park back into the Haight.

Will it work? Will we run out of batteries? Will it be exhausting? Will it be fun? Yes.

So join us.

Follow @afonso.salcedo on Instagram or look for #iPhoneX_SF.

let's see what happens Saturday.

PS. If for whatever reason the delivery gets delayed we will post a warning about it and delay this experiment a bit.

We just recently returned from visiting the city of Porto, Portugal, and with it we brought a lot of travel photos that we took throughout.

Atlantic Ocean in a hazy dreamy fog.

One of our passions is photographing our travels, and Porto being a World Heritage Site and surrounded by both an Ocean and a River full of wineries, you can imagine how cinematic everything is.

Porto is a World Heritage Site, and the downtown areas are incredible to walk around in.

Take a look at some of the ones we added to our portfolio on Photoshelter, or check out our 500px/Instagram adventures for even more.

PhotoShelter Portfolio

We're back at THU (Trojan Horse Was a Unicorn) for the 5th edition of this arts festival that encompasses the industries of film, video games, animation and traditional arts.

Trojan Horse Was a Unicorn takes place in Troia, Portugal.

It's one of the most inspiring week-long artistic adventures we've ever participated in and we couldn't be happier to be back and reconnect with some of the best talent in the world. This year, about 1,000 people will descend into this tiny paradise of a location near Lisbon, and over 70 countries are represented.

Sunrise over Troia, Portugal.

As part of the advisory board team, we will also do some Instagram takeovers throughout the week, and a few other surprises, so stay tuned!

The hallways of the Troia Design Hotel are ready for the hundreds of artists participating in the event.

For more information, visit the official website:

Real Estate

We recently Brough our FAA-licensed drone, motion graphics know-how and production expertise to create this video for Branagh Realty, a high-end real estate companies in the Bay Area.

All filmed on-location in Lafayette, CA, with a seamless blend of animations, maps and aerial footage, including architectural renders, and we couldn't be prouder of our latest partnership with the team behind Branagh Realty.

Take a look below.

We are proud to announce that we are now officially licensed by the FAA to fly our drones for commercial usage.

We bring our cinematography and filmmaking experience to aerial images, between capturing stunning HD/4K footage and high-res photography, so that your content will never look the same again!

Aerial imaging is one of the highest return-on-investment features you can add to your videos and content, providing your viewers with an unforgettable perspective on events or locations. We can't stress highly enough how this will add value to your videos, and we are happy to be able to finally bring our high-end cinematic quality to aerial imaging as well.

Check out our full ad below, and hit us up for a quote!

We recently completed another video project documenting an incredible customer success story for Borrego Solar, and their new Gore Mountain solar array installation in the state of New York.

With our creative partners in New York, and an incredible team even filming down a mountain while skiing, all footage was acquired on location and sent via hard drive to our main studio in the Bay Area for post-production.

With our FAA-licensed drone operations we are also now able to capture stunning aerial footage of the site, which is essential for solar arrays and other similar projects.

We couldn't be prouder of the work done by our New York team, and this great partnership with Borrego which continues to be an enormous success!

We are proud to announce that we recently completed a major project for our clients JAM.

JAM is an e-learning company devoted to provide a safe online environment for kids to learn creativity: from drawing classes, to lego building and Minecraft, they hire experts in the field to mentor a class on a specific theme.

It's been a tremendous success with kids all over the world, and earlier this year we were hired to help them out creating a comprehensive realistic drawing class for JAM. The course would teach kids with zero experience or skills in illustration, how to be able to draw realistically people, pets, and more. It's a huge undertaking as you can imagine, but after four intense months the whole course was ready to be delivered.

One of the first shoot days at the office with the JAM team. Afonso Salcedo (front), Chalon Bridges (left), Hieu Nguyen (middle), Kelsey Holtaway (right).

One of the first shoot days at the office with the JAM team. Afonso Salcedo (front), Chalon Bridges (left), Hieu Nguyen (middle), Kelsey Holtaway (right).

We worked closely with JAM to design a course that would flow nicely throughout the whole program, as kids progress to more complex chapters. We directed and produced a 12-day shoot, with a mentor that JAM flew from Australia.

Since the complexity of drawing something realistically is tremendous, we knew we had to simplify the capturing of the footage as much as possible, so that we could save on production time and number of takes. It's not easy to redraw the same drawing multiple times, to cut together in post-production, so we decided to build a camera rig covering four different angles, including a mirror on top of our talent so that we would have extra coverage if needed.

This meant that on average we were able to capture a drawing from beginning to end without resorting to many takes. The four cameras were filming in tandem, allowing us to cut through in post more quickly.

Sound was recorded separately, but already synched with one of the cameras to make it easier to deal with post-production audio editing.

Even though everything is filmed widescreen, the delivery format was square, which presents a lot of issues in composition, visual effects and color grading. We only worked in square format, but as part of our delivery structure we provided all the widescreen footage as well for potential future usage.

After the 12-day shoot, we captured close to 15 TB of footage. 12-days filming many times over ten hours of footage, that somehow had to be compressed and edited into multiple 5-minute chunks.

Even though in the beginning we had estimated we would create about 75 videos, in the end we actually ended up producing 178 videos. Most of these videos were shorter than five minutes in length.

But one of our main goals of creating this class was to really make it easy for kids to visualize what the mentor sees as he is drawing. What is he looking at? How does he see shapes? Or lighting? It's impossible to clearly depict such things with simple video or talking points, so we went ahead and created an extensive amount of visual effects and animations to aid in key learning moments throughout the course.

With 178 videos edited, we ended up creating in After Effects 482 animations that were then composited back into our edited videos, most of these hand-drawn and keyframes to match the flow and gestures of the actual mentor as he draws.

178 videos edited and graded. 482 animations, most of these animated in After Effects.
— Afonso Salcedo

We couldn't be prouder of this achievement. 178 videos filmed, edited and graded with 482 animations all done in four months of production scheduling is pretty mind-boggling.

The course is supposed to be launching soon, and you can find more information at

We couldn't be happier with this collaboration and with the outstanding class we created, and we're ready for the next challenge!

Kelsey Holtaway (left), Hieu Nguyen (middle back), Chalon Bridges (right), Afonso Salcedo (front)

Kelsey Holtaway (left), Hieu Nguyen (middle back), Chalon Bridges (right), Afonso Salcedo (front)

Thank you everyone at JAM for their amazing friendship throughout this whole experience!

Sonic Runway

Last year we were involved with one incredible art installation project for Burning Man, the Sonic Runway.

Recently, its official website was just launched and the Sonic Runway traveled to China where it will be on display as a three-month public installation. We edited this video from footage taken by Burning Man participants, for the official website of Sonic Runway!

Check it out! We couldn't be more excited about seeing the Sonic Runway grow so much.

So proud to share with you all this micro-documentary we edited and color graded for our friends at Mr. Smith production company, and JFK University.

It was a tremendous amount of work, but we couldn't be more excited for another touching and successful creative collaboration with these guys. Thank you to David Valentin and Daniel Corona for always believing in Sutro.


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Search - Pygmalion - Criterion Collection on DVD

Pygmalion - Criterion Collection
Pygmalion - Criterion Collection
Actors: Wendy Hiller, Leslie Howard, O.B. Clarence, Kate Cutler, Everley Gregg
Directors: Leslie Howard, Anthony Asquith
Genres: Indie & Art House, Comedy, Drama
UR     2000     1hr 29min

This bold 1938 production of George Bernard Shaw's famous play about a linguist who turns a Cockney flower peddler into a princess was codirected by Anthony Asquith (The Browning Version) and star Leslie Howard, who brings...  more »

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Movie Details

Actors: Wendy Hiller, Leslie Howard, O.B. Clarence, Kate Cutler, Everley Gregg
Directors: Leslie Howard, Anthony Asquith
Genres: Indie & Art House, Comedy, Drama
Sub-Genres: Indie & Art House, Romantic Comedies, Classic Comedies, Love & Romance
Studio: Criterion
Format: DVD - Black and White,Full Screen - Closed-captioned
DVD Release Date: 09/19/2000
Original Release Date: 03/03/1939
Theatrical Release Date: 03/03/1939
Release Year: 2000
Run Time: 1hr 29min
Screens: Black and White,Full Screen
Number of Discs: 1
SwapaDVD Credits: 1
Total Copies: 0
Members Wishing: 14
Edition: Criterion Collection
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Languages: English
Subtitles: English
See Also:

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Movie Reviews

Great companion to "My Fair Lady"
Patrick Yamada | South Central Orange County, CA USA | 03/13/2009
(4 out of 5 stars)

"I only heard about the 1938 film version of Shaw's play after I had already seen "My Fair Lady". When I heard it wasn't a musical, it sounded truly promising (I'm not much of a fan of musicals).

If I had to choose between the two, overall I'd pick this film. The story flows better and makes more sense. The biggest example of this is Eliza Doolittle's progress in elocution. In this film Eliza has a good ear for sound despite her lack of education, and she is able to mimic proper speech. Her progress makes sense, while in "My Fair Lady" she can't pronounce words as Higgins teaches her to save her life until an inexplicable breakthrough. The funniest scene is when she speaks beyond the sets of phrases Higgins taught her and properly pronounces butchered grammar and gutter slang. Wendy Hiller may not have the same beauty as the lovely Audrey Hepburn, but she is a convincing Eliza.

Leslie Howard plays a keen Dr. Henry Higgins. His single-minded devotion to his craft to the exclusion of social graces explains his insensitivity to Eliza, and Howard acts it out wonderfully. The surprise in Pygmalion is David Tree as Freddy Eynsford-Hill. Here he plays a truly believable twit. We can understand why Eliza doesn't want to marry him because he is so helpless and inept. In "My Fair Lady" Jeremy Brett does not fit the character. He looks too good and confident to be the awkward boob that is Freddy. David Tree is far more annoying, so he plays Freddy perfectly! Overall, "Pygmalion" shows more fidelity to Shaw's original play.

Criterion restored much of the film to its usual high standard, but there are sections where the best extant copy was less than pristine. Fortunately there aren't too many of these sections, so the film pleases overall.

If you have only seen "My Fair Lady", you owe it to yourself to see "Pygmalion". Even if you enjoyed the former, you will see how the original did so well without the color, lush scenery, and grand staging of the latter."
Ending is the only drawback ...
Andrew Raker | PA | 03/22/2010
(3 out of 5 stars)

While the acting in this film (especially Wendy Hiller and Leslie Howard's) is excellent, I really disliked the altered ending. The ending is NOT Shaw's ending nor did Shaw approve of the ending. While I understood the themes Shaw was trying to convey throughout most of the film, the altered ending left me questioning, "What am I supposed to take away from this film? What am I supposed to learn?"

After a bit of research, I realized that having Eliza reunited with Higgins goes against the entire structure of the play. Higgins is not supposed to be rewarded. In his own epilogue to the play (written in 1941), Shaw clearly displays his disgust with the ending of this film adaptation. Higgins is NOT supposed to receive a happy ending because Higgins REFUSES to alter his behavior.

Because of the ending, I recommend the 1973 BBC adaptations, which follows Shaw's epilogue.

Even though the acting in the 1973 adaptation is quite inferior to the 1938 adaptation, I still believe the 1938 adaptation is worthy of 3 stars while this adaptation should receive no more than 2 stars. (I would have given this film adaptation 5 stars except for the ending, which is the same as the ending in "My Fair Lady", although it pre-dates the musical.)

However, this said, if you can accept the altered ending, my all means purchase this 1938 Leslie Howard adaptation.
Shaw Without the Music Still Sings in the Still Wondrous Ori
Ed Uyeshima | San Francisco, CA USA | 12/31/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)

"Far more a pointed satire on social mores than an opposites-attract love story, the original 1938 adaptation of George Bernard Shaw's classic 1913 play is still a glistening piece of pre-WWII British cinema fluidly co-directed by Anthony Asquith (The Importance of Being Earnest) and star Leslie Howard. Howard (Gone with the Wind) and Wendy Hiller (I Know Where I'm Going!) are close to perfection in the principal roles, but the movie's key distinction lies in the fact that Shaw adapted his own play for the screen with some assistance from W.P. Lipscomb and Cecil Lewis. Consequently, Shaw's biting wit and uncompromising tone remain intact as the familiar story of Professor Henry Higgins and Cockney flower girl Eliza Doolittle unfolds without the cherished Lerner and Lowe musical score that decorated the identical plot of My Fair Lady two decades later. As I am not a big fan of the overstuffed 1964 musical remake despite the wonderful songs, this version provides the same narrative in a far more economical 96 minutes. It's a genuine treat to appreciate Shaw's words without the music.

The story is familiar to anyone who has seen the musical. Higgins makes a bet with fellow scholar Colonel Pickering that he can pass off a lower-class flower girl as a duchess by teaching her how to speak and act. None other than later film master David Lean (Lawrence of Arabia) directed the montage sequence of Higgins teaching Eliza the proper elocution and etiquette. An awkward trial run occurs at the Chelsea home of Higgins' mother where Eliza makes her social debut recounting her ghastly story of a relative's suspicious death. Regardless, potential suitor Freddy Eynsford-Hill is entranced and becomes obsessed with Eliza. Later, Higgins and Pickering decide Eliza is ready for a formal ball at the Transylvanian embassy where Higgins' pompous former pupil, Count Aristid Karpathy, threatens to expose her Cockney roots. Instead, he is fooled by her demure polish into thinking she is a Hungarian princess. Higgins and Pickering celebrate their mutual accomplishment, but Eliza recognizes her contribution and self-worth in the deceptive exercise. When she threatens to leave Higgins' tutelage for Freddy's waiting arms, it becomes an uncomfortable matter that the professor realizes has slipped completely out of his control.

Shaw's ageless point is that class distinctions are artificial at their core. He recognizes that articulate speech, good manners, and an expensive wardrobe are the key elements that separate the classes, and that they can all be attained given the appropriate resources. What genuinely separated Higgins from Eliza is the fact that he is a ruthless, selfish egotist who cannot imagine wanting the respect much less the love of his blossoming student. That becoming a lady of his level of bearing should be Eliza's aspiration is what ultimately appalls her, and it becomes clear that such class distinctions have no relevance when it comes to personal value. Deep in the shadow of Rex Harrison in his definitive role, Howard brings a more impulsive, youthful energy to Higgins, so much so that there is true terror when he threatens to strike Eliza. Hiller handles Eliza's metamorphosis with arresting conviction and makes a more convincing Cockney guttersnipe than Audrey Hepburn. By comparison, Hiller's transformation is more subtle in this treatment. There are nice turns by Marie Lohr as Mrs. Higgins, Sunderland as Pickering, and Wilfrid Lawson as Eliza's ne'er-do-well father Alfred, although David Tree comes across as far too callow for the likes of Eliza as Freddy. The 2000 Criterion Collection DVD surprisingly contains no extras, but the print transfer does justice to the pristine cinematography of veteran Harry Stradling (Funny Girl) and his camera operator Jack Hildyard (The Bridge on the River Kwai)."


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Topping Out at Denver’s Next High-Rise Hotel

Contributor: Swinerton Blogger   |   April 08, 2015
Topping Out at Denver’s Next High-Rise Hotel

Swinerton Builders, Shiel Sexton, and White Lodging have topped out at the Hyatt House & Hyatt Place Hotel in downtown Denver, Colorado. A structural steel beam was hoisted to the top of the 21-story, cast-in-place concrete tower as the last piece of the structure.

This new dual-branded hotel at 14th Street and Glenarm, provides 361 hotel rooms which are divided between Hyatt Place, a select-service hotel, and Hyatt House—an extended stay product. Each hotel will have its own entrance, lobby, restaurant and lounge area; though hotel guests will share conference rooms, a swimming pool and workout area, and four levels of parking with 114 spaces.

The structure totals 306,000 square feet and is located near the Colorado Convention Center and Denver’s 14th Street theater district. The hotel is scheduled for completion in November.


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Veterinarian Services Offered at Our Animal Hospitals

At each one of our 6 Sydney Animal Hospitals, pets and their families can expect to find the highest quality in veterinary care. With years of combined experience and a unique one-on-one approach to pet care, we are proud to offer a wide range of veterinary services to meet the many needs of our patients. Serving our local communities since 1990, here you will find everything from pet wellness exams, vaccinations, dental services, pet grooming and more.

Services Offered

Each animal hospital that we operate offers a wide range of comprehensive pet wellness services. Whether you have a new kitten or puppy, are interested in senior pet care or you need a safe place to board your pet while you’re away on holiday - we are happy to help you care for your pets and ensure they live long happy and healthy lives.

Comprehensive Wellness Exams

Routine pet wellness exams are an important part of keeping your pet healthy and happy. With regular annual or bi-annual exams, we can easily catch common medical conditions early on. Additionally, we can provide educational steps that families can take to make life more comfortable for their pets between visits to our animal hospital.

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Whether your family pets are inside only or they roam around the neighborhood occasionally, they will greatly benefit from a tailored vaccination schedule that perfectly fits their lifestyle needs. Keep your pets protected from common viruses and medical conditions by staying up to date with their vaccinations from the time they are young.

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Did you know that 8 out of 10 dogs and cats will develop dental disease by the time they are 3 years old? As your pets grow, they will become more vulnerable to gum disease and tooth decay over time. Just like their owners, pets require occasional dental cleanings to keep their mouths healthy. Aside from at-home dental care, we provide a number of dental services for your family pets including dental exams, dental cleanings and extractions.

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Maintaining a healthy coat, skin and nails are another important part of being a responsible pet owner. Although many of these tasks can be completed at home, our experienced and patient veterinary staff is happy to help you keep your pets looking and feeling great. With a variety of grooming services available, we can easily take the stress out of keeping your pets looking their best!

We also offer boarding services to those who are in need of a safe, comfortable and welcoming space to leave their pets for long weekends away, holidays or overnight medical stays. With round the clock care, safe facilities and trained staff to look after your pet’s dietary and medical needs, you and your family can rest easy knowing they’re in good hands while you’re away.

Help keep your pet safe even if they run away from home. With safe and convenient microchipping services, your pet can be identified at any animal hospital or shelter if they get lost. This virtually pain-free procedure only takes seconds and can help bring your pet home again with ease.

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Is it time to for your pet’s annual veterinarian exam? Don’t forget that we have 6 convenient animal hospital locations including:

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Contact the team at Sydney Animal Hospitals online to find your nearest location and schedule an appointment today!

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Does Sarah Connor deliver in the Chronicles midseason premiere?

Contributed by
Dec 14, 2012

When Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles first premiered on Fox, it was filled with action and promise. Viewers were heady with anticipation, and the initial ratings were better than a post-American Idol-Fringe could hope for.

But then the show settled in, driven by unrelenting sadness, and the ratings dropped.

Sarah's second season so far has left us with questions ...

A) What the heck is going on with Sarah's three dots already (and couldn't the writers have come up with something better than three bloody dots to inspire us)?

B) Could "this" John (Thomas Dekker) actually grow up to be the hero of the future instead of a whiny little teenager?

C) Does the series have to kill off every sympathetic character the writers come up with?

D) Has the series become nothing more than Fox's 24, without pace?

That doesn't mean I don't like it. In fact, I'm glad to see Sarah Connor return, even if she is struggling with life and death and getting some guidance from an imaginary friend in the midseason premiere, "The Good Wound."

The episode picks up from the midseason cliffhanger "Earthlings Welcome Here," which killed off the sympathetic cross-dresser blogger Eileen (Dinah Lenney), saw Sarah get too close to the meaning of those pesky dots from her dream to the tune of a bullet in the leg, and left John with a decision about what to do when Riley (Leven Rambin) attempts suicide.

"The Good Wound" brings back Kyle Reese, and not in a bad way. Actor Jonathan Jackson is no Michael Biehn (who originally played Reese in the original Terminator movie), but let's face it, Michael Biehn isn't that Michael Biehn these days and Lena Headey is a very different Sarah Connor. Jackson's Reese has some nice moments with Headey's Sarah, and it's a satisfying throwback to the movie that reminds both us and Sarah why she's doing what she's doing.

The less successful story belongs to Riley, a character who never worked as well as she should have. Rambin is a good actress, and her character does at least get the pouty John to smile once in a while. But let's face it, Sarah, Derek (Brian Austin Green) or Cameron (Summer Glau) should have and would have taken her out long ago. The bigger problem is that she just doesn't fit ... just like Sarah's blasted dots.

However, for every element that doesn't work, there are a couple that enhance the series. Cromartie's morphing into the potentially much scarier John Henry (Garret Dillahunt), Catherine Weaver's (Shirley Manson) finally taking off the gloves to show us that she really is as chilling as she seems, and the mystery behind Jesse's (Stephanie Chaves-Jacobsen) real mission all color the series in new ways.

In "The Good Wound" we do learn a couple of secrets, and the ending leads to more questions. That's the sign of any good series, giving us a tasty nugget while making us hungry for more. If nothing else, The Sarah Connor Chronicles has got the prettiest freedom fighters that ever existed on screen as they manage to pull off both grim and sexy. It's also got some of the best action scenes on television (besides 24, if not enough of them.

Now all the series needs are some ratings. And, folks, without an increase in ratings, this will likely be the last season of the show. Fox isn't going to keep it on without some payoff.

Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles' midseason premiere airs in its new timeslot on Fox on Friday, Feb. 13, at 8 p.m. ET/PT, before Joss Whedon's new spy sci-fi series, Dollhouse.


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Zenit Miniatures announces Nemesis 2.0 rulebook coming next month

By Polar_Bear
In Fantasy
Oct 21st, 2013
1 Comment

Zenit Miniatures has announced that a new hardcover rulebook for Nemesis 2.0 will be coming out next month.

From the announcement:

As part of the Nemesis we contact you to introduce you the new Nemesis 2.0 which will be released on the 25th of November.
We have been working for a long time in this renovation because it affects almost every aspect of the game, from its rule to the models, but taking care not moving away from the special aesthetics and setting of this universe

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I was born at a very young age. I plan on living forever. So far, so good.


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Tai Chi Classes Ettingshall UK

Tai Chi Classes Ettingshall: You can readily root out nearby tai chi classes in your district by using our versatile maps, in addition submit your requirements and obtain price quotes for tai chi classes in Ettingshall, West Midlands and surrounding areas. Track down the handiest and cheapest tai chi classes to you.

Finding Tai Chi Classes in Ettingshall With the Map: Whenever Tai Chi results are entered they'll typically display on the map as small red circles. Clicking on these red circles should show the the exact details of the listing upper left of the map in the form of a plain white rectangle, which will commonly display that individual Tai Chi classes contact address. *In some cases there won't be any Tai Chi classes listings to showcase upon this map and we do unreservedly apologise should this occur, but to identify the nearest to you utilize the zoom out "-" control button. Additionally please note that on occasions unrelated entries could possibly be displayed on the map and we don't have any control over what displays (see disclaimer below) for the Ettingshall area.

Tai Chi Classes Image

Ettingshall Tai Chi Classes: You may either make use of the map shown on this page to find local Tai Chi classes, or instead you can choose the enquiry form placed below right or above left and post your job on Bark.com, a useful site that can help anyone to track down what you are trying to find without charge to yourself, when and if there are Tai Chi classes available close to Ettingshall, West Midlands.

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Tai Chi Services Available in Ettingshall Include: Tai Chi for diabetes, Tai Chi lessons for the elderly, Tai Chi for relaxation, Tai Chi for meditation, Tai Chi classes for self defence, one to one Tai Chi classes, Tai Chi classes for depression, Tai Chi exercises for vertigo, Tai Chi lessons for anxiety, Tai Chi near you, Tai Chi sessions for knee pain, Tai Chi classes for back pain, Tai Chi for joint pain, Tai Chi sessions for pain management, Tai Chi classes for stress, affordable Tai Chi classes, Tai Chi for multiple sclerosis, Tai Chi lessons for flexibility, Tai Chi lessons for neck pain, Tai Chi lessons for osteoporosis.

Find Tai Chi Classes Near to Ettingshall Area

Qualified Tai Chi TeachersGoing to a Tai Chi session will enable you to master the proper movements and posture to completely appreciate the many benefits of this elegant martial art. Lots of Tai Chi teachers do a taster class so you can find out a bit about it before making a decision to sign up. You will find this is an effective means by which to discover for yourself precisely how Tai Chi lessons can benefit you.

Since this is a gentle and low impact exercise technique, Tai Chi is perfect for individuals of all ages and abilities. Tai Chi classes are less likely to lead to any muscle injuries or stress on the joints if conducted the right way meaning it's essential to master the correct moves and positions from the outset. A Tai Chi lesson should help to promote a positive and happy attitude by channelling energy and personal creativity which is believed to restore overall health and prolong life by harmonizing mind and body as one.

Once you've studied and mastered the most common routines of Tai Chi you can practise it wherever that you feel relaxed about since you don't need any specialized equipment to do it. For the Tai Chi exercises all you'll need are comfortable, loose-fitting clothes which will not restrict your movements, whenever possible you should don plain or subdued colours because the main focus ought to be on the routine, not your clothes. Actually you don't even need to have shoes to do Tai Chi as some classes will require you to practice in your bare feet.

Normally called just Tai Chi but more correctly as Tai Chi Chuan which translates roughly as "supreme ultimate fist" and there are numerous styles of this traditional art, such as: Chen, Yang, Sun, Wu, Yangjia Michuan, Lee, Wu-Hao and others. Used alongside acupressure, massage (tui na), acupuncture, dietary therapy, exercise, herbal medicine and more, Tai Chi is a component of China's complicated Oriental medicine system used to experience long life and spiritual awareness.

Find an Expert With Bark

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Other Sources for Ettingshall Tai Chi Classes

More Sources for Ettingshall Tai Chi Classes: You may however try some other places to seek Ettingshall tai chi classes these include: Yahoo Directory, Top Pages, Tuugo, Tipped, B2Index, Foursquare, UK Internet Directory, UK Directory, Lacartes, Wahanda, City Visitor, Local Data Search, 4ni, 192, Scoot and also Ettingshall local newspapers, Ettingshall local directories or the Yellow Pages for Ettingshall, West Midlands. For anyone who is still having trouble finding reputable Ettingshall Tai Chi classes you could try quizzing work colleagues, family members or friends.

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Archive for September 29th, 2010

MBA Mortgage Applications Down 0.8%

(For The Week Ending September 24, 2010) MBA mortgage applications fell 0.8% , prior reading was a decrease of 1.4.%. Refinance index fell 1.6%; Purchase index rose 2.4%. Chart 1. MBA Mortgage Applications

ATA For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index Down 2.7% In August

(For August 2010) The American Trucking Associations seasonally adjusted For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index fell 2.7% in August. The largest month-to-month decrease since March 2009. From the Press Release: ATA Chief Economist Bob Costello said that August’s data highlights that the economy, while still growing, is slowing. “We fully anticipate sluggish economic growth for the remainder […]

Ireland & Portugal Government Spreads At Fresh Highs

Irish spreads again a bit higher today. Irish government will announce tomorrow the details of Anglo Irish burial rescue. So far the bank has received EUR 23 billion of state help, tomorrow will be added additional EUR 10-15 billion. Incidental tomorrow marks two years of Irish government guaranteeing Anglo Irish debt and the guarantee is not (jet) extended. So, there is a possibility that some EUR 5.7 billion […]

China HSBC/Markit PMI For September At 52.9

(For September 2010) HSBC/Markit China PMI rose from 49.4 to 52.9. It appears that China industrial production figures for September will improve a bit. Chart 1. China Federation of Logistics & Purchasing and National Bureau of Statistics PMI; HSBC Markit China Manufacturing PMI; China Industrial Production Growth

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The Cardinals’ Allen Craig slides safely into second base as Danny Espinosa of the Washington Nationals throws the ball in the top of the sixth inning during Game Four of the National League Division Series at Nationals Park in Washington on Thursday.Oct 13, 2012

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Phil Mickelson of the US plays from the bunker on the 17th hole during yesterday’s second round of the WGC-HSBC Champions tournament at the Mission Hills Golf Club in Dongguan, China.Nov 03, 2012

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 Obama shows comedic side at dinner - Taipei Times
Mon, Apr 29, 2013 - Page 7　News List

Obama shows comedic side at dinner

COMMANDER-IN-COMEDY:Few were left unscathed after US President Barack Obama took light-hearted aim at his opponents and the media at the correspondents’ dinner

The highlight of the dinner is the jokey address from the president, who often uses his own political star-power to outdo the comedian that is annually hired to roast the press, and sometimes the commander-in-chief.

Sometimes, the president has to show restraint. In 2011, Obama laughed along with a joke about Osama bin Laden, in the knowledge that a top secret raid to kill the al-Qaeda leader in Pakistan was hours from beginning.

This story has been viewed 1334 times.

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 New York sues Trump and his ‘university’ for fraud - Taipei Times
Mon, Aug 26, 2013 - Page 7　News List

New York sues Trump and his ‘university’ for fraud

PHONY PROMISES:Real-estate mogul Donald Trump denied that his seminar program engaged in persistent fraud by deceiving students using his name recognition

AP, ALBANY, New York

New York’s attorney general sued Donald Trump for US$40 million on Saturday, saying the real-estate mogul helped run a phony “Trump University” that promised to make students rich, but instead steered them into expensive and mostly useless seminars, and even failed to deliver promised apprenticeships.

Trump shot back that the Democrat’s lawsuit is false and politically motivated.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman says that many of the 5,000 students who paid up to US$35,000 thought they would at least meet Trump, but instead had their picture taken in front of a life-size picture of The Apprentice TV star.

“Trump University engaged in deception at every stage of consumers’ advancement through costly programs and caused real financial harm,” Schneiderman said. “Trump University, with Donald Trump’s knowledge and participation, relied on Trump’s name recognition and celebrity status to take advantage of consumers who believed in the Trump brand.”

However, Trump’s attorney accused Schneiderman of trying to extort campaign contributions from the real-estate mogul through his investigation of Trump. Attorney Michael Cohen on Saturday said that Schneiderman’s lawsuit was filled with falsehoods. Cohen said Trump and his university never defrauded anyone.

He said Trump University provided nearly 11,000 testimonials to Schneiderman from students praising the program and said 98 percent of students in a survey termed the program “excellent.”

“The attorney general has been angry because he felt that Mr Trump and his various companies should have done much more for him in terms of fundraising,” Cohen said. “This entire investigation is politically motivated and it is a tremendous waste of taxpayers’ money.”

State Board of Elections records show Trump has spent more than US$136,000 on New York campaigns since 2010. He contributed US$12,500 to Schneiderman in October 2010, when Schneiderman was running for attorney general.

“Donald Trump will not sit back and be extorted by anyone, including the attorney general,” Cohen said.

The lawsuit says many of the wannabe moguls were unable to land even one real-estate deal and were left far worse off than before the lessons, facing thousands of dollars in debt for the seminar program once billed as a top-quality university with Trump’s “hand-picked” instructors.

Schneiderman is suing the program, Trump as the chairman and the former president of the university in a case to be handled in the New York Supreme Court in Manhattan. He accuses them of engaging in persistent fraud, illegal and deceptive conduct and violating federal consumer protection law. The US$40 million he seeks is mostly to pay restitution to consumers.

He dismissed Trump’s claim of a political motive.

“The fact that he’s still brave enough to follow the investigation wherever it may lead speaks to Mr Schneiderman’s character,” Schneiderman spokesman Andrew Friedman said.

New York Department of Education officials had told Trump to change the name of his enterprise years ago, saying it lacked a license and did not meet the legal definitions of a university. In 2011, it was renamed the Trump Entrepreneur Institute, but it has been dogged since by complaints from consumers and a few isolated civil lawsuits saying it did not fulfill its advertised claims.

This story has been viewed 1204 times.

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My Christmas Table

This years Christmas table was inspired by
these sweet deer that I found at the Humble Hostess
in Old Town Orange
Christmas Kitsch it is!

Mason glasses with  stripe straws
milk bottles again for water
my vintage Mexican serape for a tablecloth

I harvested my lemons and oranges
and filled up a large wooden tray
added a
cake stand
to make my vintage knome the centerpiece.

I pulled out my circus inspired metal plates for color
used my bright ceramic plates.

as always my friends

I wish you love and joy
as you style your life

  1. You always just knock it out of the park!

  2. Oh what fun, I always think that Christmas tables should be warm and welcoming rather than overdesigned, I love what you've done here.

  3. What a wonderfully colourful table, Tamera - fabulous, festive and fun! Hope you had a lovely time. xxxx

  4. It's so beautiful what you have created. A great inspiration always and I enjoy it. I wish you the best New Year and thanks for your blog.

  5. How beautifully welcoming - and those circus plates are amazing!!! Hope you've been having a lovely season, xo

  6. Beautiful, as always!! I just love that peppermint cake stand, too cute!! I hope you had a very merry Christmas!

  7. Perfectly creative and unique. Love the use of color and non-Christmas items to show the festive spirit. So artful! Makes my heart sing.


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Find a Lawyer

Dealing with medical complaints in Dubai

by Hiam Al Muhtadi - -

The Dubai Health Authority was established in June 2007 under Dubai Law No.13 of that year. The aim of the Dubai Health Authority is to enhance the healthcare sector and the medical profession within the Emirate of Dubai.

Medical Complaints

The Authority deals with medical complaints against healthcare providers and medical practioners working in the public and private sectors in Dubai. A medical complaint is any written or spoken expression of dissatisfaction with a healthcare service in the Emirate of Dubai.

All medical complaints are handled by the Health Regulation Department of the Authority. Medical complaints filed against healthcare professionals or entities are dealt with in a timely, professional and consistent manner by the Health Regulation Department. The Department will only accept complaints related to a health service or its quality.

All medical complaints will be considered, whether they are formal written complaints or a concern expressed towards a healthcare professional or institution in a customer feedback survey.

The Department will investigate the complaint and determine whether or not a healthcare professional’s actions or inactions constitute malpractice.

Malpractice is an error that occurs due to a practitioner’s unfamiliarity with the technical aspects of a procedure being undertaken, or due to his negligence (see Article 14 of Federal Law No. 10 of 2008 (“The Medical liability Law”).

However, a medical practitioner will not be liable in the following circumstances:

  1. If the damage was sustained due to the action of the patient (i.e. refusing receiving treatment, failing to follow the medical instructions provided by persons supervising the patient’s treatment or due to an external cause).
  2. Where the physician followed a certain medical method when administering the treatment other than the generally accepted method, there will be no liability if the method nonetheless followed recognized medical principles.
  3. If the medical side effects and complications are known in the medical practice.

Complaint Procedure

A medical complaint can be made by a patient affected by the actions or inactions of a healthcare provider. Medical complaints can also be made by someone acting on behalf of the complainant, provided that the complainant’s consent is obtained.

A typed summary of the complaint with the Authority complaint form (which can be found on the Authority’s website) must be personally submitted by the complainant to the Department. Once a complaint is filed, all members of hospital staff who can provide information about the complaint (I.e. patient’s medical file) will be contacted.

If a complaint requires investigation, a panel of medical specialists will be formed to review the complaint. The final outcome of the investigation will be communicated to the complainant, the physician and the healthcare facility.

Investigation Process

The Department deals with each complaint separately based on the severity of a complaint.  A thorough investigation of each complaint will be conducted and the Department will determine the causal link between the actions of the healthcare professional and the harm sustained by a complainant.

The investigation process at the Authority is as follows:

  1. Department will contact the health care institutions involved in the complaint to obtain the complainant’s medical files,
  2. The Department will then separately invite the medical practioner/s and the complainant to the investigation;
  3. The panel will examine the complainant’s medical file, the complaint itself, and the testimonials from doctors, staff and other information before presenting their decision.

The Department will then prepare a report on its findings and communicate their decision to the parties.

The Department will ensure that the complainant receives an apology, if appropriate, and will further assess the steps that need to be taken to avoid the issue from occurring again.

Appeal Process

The appeal process is as follows:

  1. The complainant can appeal the Department’s decision within 15 days of receiving the final result of the investigation.
  2. The appeal will be reviewed by another panel of medical specialists at the Department as well as the legal department of the Authority, and finally by the director general of the Authority who will render a final decision on the complaint.
  3. Appeals will be accepted if complainants have new evidence to support their appeal.
  4. The appeal will be reviewed and the parties (i.e. patient/healthcare provider) will be notified of the Authority’s final decision.
  5. Only one appeal is accepted per case.
  6. The Authority’s final decision will not be subject to any further appeals.

Disciplinary actions

The Authority is empowered to take the following actions should a complaint be upheld:

  1. To reprimand the healthcare professional or facility;
  2. To send warning letters that similar violations in the future will result in temporary or permanent suspension of the physician licensee; revocation or refusal to renew the licensee’s Authority license;
  3. Further training for the licensee and supervision by another licensed healthcare professional.

Time Frame

The Authority normally takes between 6-12 months to render final decisions on complaints.

The Dubai Healthcare City Authority

Dubai Healthcare City was established in 2002 to provide the best patient healthcare.

The DHCC hears medical complaints filed against hospitals and healthcare professionals within the healthcare city only.

The Centre for Planning and Quality at the DHCC.

The Centre for Planning and Quality is an independent regulatory body with the role of setting and maintaining international best practice in healthcare delivery and patient care at the DHCC.

Every healthcare provider and professional within DHCC must meet stringent standards in order to be licensed by the Centre.

Healthcare quality and patient safety are of the utmost priority for the Centre, and it ensures that standards are maintained through a series of ongoing requirements and inspections.

Medical Complaints before the Customer Protection Unit

The Customer Protection Unit is responsible for all complaints against Centre licensees, healthcare professionals and facilities, public health and non-clinical facilities.

The Unit is responsible for managing the investigation of each complaint and presenting the complaints to the Health Professionals Council, Licensing Board and the Facility Committee at the DHCC, according to the Dubai Health Care City Authority’s Governing Regulation No.1 of 2008.

Complaints Procedure

The procedure for complaints made to the Unit is as follows:

  1. Complaints are reviewed and analyzed to determine whether the facts alleged by complainant constitute a violation of any of the DHCC regulations, rules, and policies.
  2. An investigation is then conducted, including on-site investigations, witness statements or interviews, visual inspections, etc.
  3. Panels of medical experts may be formed to provide their opinion on the complaint.
  4. Fitness to practice panels may also be formed to ensure that a Licensed Healthcare Professional (“Licensee”) continues to meet the required standard of competence and has not engaged or is not engaging in professional misconduct;
  5. A complete file is then presented to the Customer Protection Unit Committee for review.
  6. The Committee’s proposed findings on evidence; opinion regarding the occurrence of violations; and recommendations for penalties, are then presented to the Licensing Board for review and final decision.
  7. Following a thorough review, the Licensing Board will issue a final decision, including findings of facts and conclusions of law as well as a decision for either dismissal or for disciplinary action.
  8. The complaints process will be concluded within 3-6months and the  unit will be responsible for communicating the final decision to the licensee and the complaint.

The Licensee’s role in the complaints process

The licensee must respond to allegations in the complaints within 10 working days of receiving the complaint. Their response to each allegation must be supported with documents, such as complete medical records (if possible). The Licensee must fully cooperate with the Unit in its investigation, within a reasonable time frame.

The Licensing Board’s Decision

The Licensing Board’s final decision is not subject to appeal unless further relevant facts become known after the board has rendered its decision that was not available to the complainant or the licensee in the course of the investigation process.

Disciplinary Actions

The disciplinary actions that the Licensing Board can take range from:

  1. The imposition of financial penalties
  2. A reprimand against healthcare professionals or facilities
  3. Warning letters stating that similar violations in the future will result in temporary or permanent suspension of the licensee; revocation or refusal to renew the licensee’s DHCC license
  4. Further training for the licensee and supervision by another licensed healthcare professional
  5. A refund to the complainant with expenses for the treatment or service acquired at a healthcare facility

Although various complaints are made against medical practioners and hospitals before the health authorities in Dubai, healthcare professionals and entities are not always found to have committed malpractice or negligence by the health authorities in practice. Sometimes patients file complaints against physicians for injuries sustained following surgical procedures which are in fact well known and common side effects which were communicated to them in advance of the treatment (often by way of consultation on the treatment plan, with a consent form being signed by the patient on the date of the surgery).

Other common complaints relate to the method or technique used by medical practioners in certain procedures that differ from the methods followed by doctors in the same field of specialty. The fact that a doctor followed a certain technique that was not common in treatments performed by other doctors specialized in the same field does not mean that the physician was negligent in the treatment of a patient, provided that the technique followed acceptable and recognized medical standards. The above mentioned departments at the health authorities allow the complainant, healthcare professional or institution, the right to be heard equally in the complaints process to ensure the investigation procedure is conducted fairly for both parties.

The inception of the health authorities have improved the healthcare management sector in Dubai by implementing advanced mechanisms for tackling medical complaints efficiently in accordance with the law and the acceptable medical standards of practice.


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Melodramatic Writer Meltdown

I’m having an existential writer moment. At least I think it’s existential. Hell. Basically, I’m just throwing a tantrum. I get so tired of promoting all the time and then when I see my sales report (abysmal) it’s really hard not to take it personally. It reminds me of auditioning…even dating…where somehow you’re never quite good enough. To wax old-gold-digger: Tarnation!

I guess this is the modern life of a struggling writer, or any artist really. You have to produce work, believe in your work, constantly put it out there, and hope that it catches on. I wonder though, sometimes, at what point do you just give up? Not that I’d ever give up on writing, but I do think sometimes of giving up on trying to get a big publishing house, or even promoting my current work.

I just sent out a dozen free books to people in hopes that they’ll help spread the word about my work. There’s no telling if it will work. That all comes out of my pocketbook. I had to buy the books to give them away. Ouch. And I paid for some advertising. Promo stuff. Etc. etc. And now I’m looking at doing a reading/signing at St. Cecilia. I couldn’t get Schuler’s to call me back. A reading is a great idea, but it will probably cost me about $500 with food and promo materials. And there’s no guarantee that anyone will show up. (See the onion spoof  here. It’s funny because it’s true.)

Sometimes I wonder if I’ve been swept up in some massive scam that gets writers to pay for promotional material and even their own books. Then I immediately stop thinking about that because it’s too sad.

Wah. Wah. Wah.

I think this is just another temporary setback. I’ll get over it. It just comes at a time when I still don’t know if my teaching contract will be renewed and I’m not sure how many more voice over gigs I’ll get. If teaching tanks and I’m not selling books…dear god…what will I do then? It scares me. Deeply. Probably not the best time to watch the first episode of Mildred Pierece where she’s all starving and looking for work. I do not want to be a waitress again. I really don’t.

I’ll get over this and my tight pants. I’m not dieting, exactly, but I am upping my workouts. I probably need the endorphins. And I have wonderful friends and family who read my work and love it. And, of course, I’ve got my kiddos and Kealoha. It’s just sometimes I get tired of all the work and I want to see the fruits of my labor. And by fruits I mean ‘income’ and by labor I mean ‘writing’. That’s my dream, I guess. To one day see my writing pay off, literally.

It might never happen. So…guess I’ll just continue doing what I do. I might bitch about it every now and then, but sheesh, I’m endlessly flawed and human. And my zodiac sign is Cancer, so what can you expect really?

And Mildred Pierce eventually made some kind of fortune out of pies or something, didn’t she? I haven’t watched the whole thing. I’m afraid maybe she has some kind of confrontation with her daughter involving wire hangers. (I could be mixing up old movies here.)

I’m hoping all this will blow over when it’s finally sunny outside and I can get over my angst and put on a sundress and a pair of sandals. That’s all I really need. OR…I could pretend I’m in a 1950’s melodrama. I sort of like that idea. Let me go get a hanky so I can flit it around while crying dramatically, and without tears.

I leave you with some melodrama. Enjoy.


text:
Anesthesia Errors in the 21st Century

Since its introduction in the mid-19th century to the present day, anesthesia has become notably safer. The first anesthetic compounds were explosive, dosages were not established, and unexpected negative effects included fatal aspiration of stomach contents.

Today, anesthesia is administered by anesthesiologists (MDs) and certified nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) with extensive specialized training in the field. The operating room (OR) is equipped with devices that monitor blood pressure, blood oxygen levels, and actions of the heart and lungs during surgery. The anesthesiologist can choose from a range of drugs proven to be safe and reliable.

Why do patients still die from anesthesia?

Despite the abundance of knowledge about anesthesia drugs and their effects on humans, about allergic reactions and antidotes and about techniques and devices to keep airways clear during surgery, deaths and serious injuries still result from anesthesia. Some are unpredictable and inexplicable. Others, resulting from human error, are medical malpractice. And still others are the result of defective drugs or medical devices.

It is critical that the patient’s airway remain open to receive oxygen. During general anesthesia (when the patient is unconscious, paralyzed and can’t breath normally), the anesthesiologist protects the airway by inserting an endotracheal tube into the trachea (windpipe). If the doctor carelessly inserts the tube into the esophagus instead of the trachea, the patient’s oxygen level will drop and the patient will suffer cardiac arrest and, if the airway is not cleared within four to six minutes, brain damage. A well-equipped OR will have a device to verify correct placement of the endotracheal tube. When a procedure is done in an office, the risk of error rises.

Anesthesia is an entire branch of medical science, not just a class of (potentially toxic) drugs. The anesthesiologist, nurse anesthetist, and anesthesia assistants are responsible for observing the patient, noting any unanticipated changes after administration of a drug and responding accordingly. Fatigue, stress, inattention, or poor training may result in operating room staff’s failure to identify an emergency and take appropriate measures.

One of the earliest noted causes of anesthesia-relate death was aspiration of stomach contents; it continues to threaten patients today, especially those who are pregnant, obese, or have bowel obstructions. Special techniques will protect those patients. Another human error is overuse of a sedative during a minor procedure, causing a patient to stop breathing and die. Strong sedatives are often administered by poorly trained staff in a doctor’s or dentist’s office. After the anesthetic is stopped, the anesthesiologist’s or anesthetist’s failure to administer drugs to reverse the paralyzing effect may result in the patient’s failure to resume breathing.

Mechanical devices used during administration of anesthesia are very reliable, but the doctor/nurse anesthetist is responsible for going through a checklist to ensure the device is working properly and avoid death or injury from failure of the anesthesia machine, ventilator, or monitor.

A family that has lost a loved one, or a patient who suffered brain injury or another serious injury as a result of an anesthesia error, may be entitled to compensation from the hospital, anesthesiologist, anesthetist, or manufacturer of defective medical equipment. If a survivor is considering a personal injury claim, it is important to work with a law firm with the resources to pursue a complex, expensive case, and a successful record in personal injury law.

Contact us for a free attorney consultation, or visit our Practice Areas page for more information about Taylor & Boguski.


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text:
The Game That Makes Men

November 2, 2007
In my four years at Northwest I participated in an array of activities, but one main one will resonate in my mind for all eternity. Football will never leave my mind. Few activities I come in contact with across in my life will require as much commitment as football. All the tough work not realized in the younger days comes to mind, not what starts in the fall like the games, but work people rarely see, for instance what we do in the spring.
During the spring, when the work put into the winter sports fades from memory the halls, and weight room become booming with activity. Through out the spring, the football team: lifts, runs, and does plyometric work. Plyometric work, the worst of them all, I remember Chris Nealy in particular, he would stop in front of the box, evaluate, inspect the box, then go on to the next one, silent as a mouse trying to sneak by coach.The spring workouts may require the most commitment before the games begin. Anyone can skip the workouts with ease, only one coach watches over the group, or the phrase that resonates, “I’m in a different sport”. However, the group that skips makes up a small portion of the ratio, a second group of people go to nearly every one, and I’m in the second group.
Then comes summer, a time of sleeping in, and ease for some. However, for the football team summer’s a time of hard work, time to get involved in everything about football. Workouts start at six-fifteen in the morning, and get ready for the torture that will soon ensue.
Three stations make up the morning: lifting, agility, and hallway which all come before the sprinting session. Few rules come into place here, the main one: to stay enthusiastic throughout, this becomes a necessity otherwise the younger kids will see older kids slacking, and think that’s how all people do the workout, and then lose enthusiasm. However, workouts don’t end there after the full workout the freshmen wait at the stadium for the start of the run which involves a variety of options: one hundred yard sprints, hills. Once again keeping up the enthusiasm becomes a necessity.
That’s all just the summer and spring, the season doesn’t even start for another couple months. Multi-tasking becomes a nifty skill, because members of the football team need to juggle a variety of tasks: school, home, football, church, work. Don’t even think about slacking on one of the areas otherwise the shortcomings will mush together way into another area. There’s school; people find ways to get help, come in early, stay later, but nothing can get in the way of football. Then there’s home time to, eat, do chores, and then try to do the work that teachers didn’t feel necessary for school, now this problem belongs in the much deserved spare time. Then football the major one, where the last seven months of everyone’s life went. All the teachers say how football comes before the rest of the sports, and how football sets the tone for the rest of the year. All the coaches say how people will lead by example in short “do what’s right”, and how everyone needs to bust their butts on the field. However after all Friday night under the lights become something to cherish.

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College Essay

January 12, 2009
My mom and I walk into the Orthopedics office and my body starts to tense. My mom checks us in. We sit down and wait. A Physicians Assistant walks in and calls my name.

We are taken to an examination room and told x-rays will be required. With a knock on the door, a lady takes me off to x-ray’s. I walk back to the exam room, sit down and wait for the doctor. With another knock on the door, the doctor walks in. Dr. Zhu introduces himself, sits down and tells me the news. “You have an injury called Lisfranc. It’s serious and will require multiple surgeries.”
My face went blank and I stared at Dr. Zhu not believing what he just said. Dr. Zhu explained the injury (torn ligaments and fracture), the surgeries required and recovery process. He tells me I will be in a cast for five and a half weeks, walking boot for six weeks, and go back into surgery and start therapy after. The whole process would take three to four months. I had been working hard over the summer to be ready for school volleyball season and hopefully play volleyball in college. Realizing that both may not be possible, I started to cry.
It has been about two months since surgery and I haven’t fully accepted the situation. It was not until parent’s night, at a home volleyball game, when reality finally sunk in. I worked hard to have an All Conference senior year of volleyball since my freshman year and this year it was not going to happen. Not knowing what will happen after all of this is the toughest part. Hearing friends, coaches, and parents telling me that things will be better, is hard to believe. I try to accept their encouragement but there are questions in the back of my head. Why me? Why know? Why so severe?

Waking up in the morning is different since surgery. I wake up, hope to have a good day and then see the crutches and walking boot. I replay the day I went to the doctors over and over and over again. I know I am not the same person I was before the injury. I feel I am not able to do things that I used to because I am held back.

This has been the toughest thing I have ever been through, but also the best thing that has happened to me. I now realize that there is more to life then just sports. When this experience is over I know, I will be a stronger person mentally and physically.

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The Amazing Salamanders

September 22, 2009
By , Wilmington, DE
Once there were three salamanders, but they weren’t like any ordinary salamanders. There names were Ron, Peter and Tom. Ron played many sports and was always voted ‘Most Valuable Player’ (MVP). Peter is like Spiderman but instead of using a web, he uses vines, leaves, and twigs to swing from place to place. Tom is like both Ron and Peter but he is the smartest salamander in the rain forest. Together they use their talents to combat evil. They are known as the ‘Amazing Salamanders.’

It was quiet, too quiet. Suddenly a flock of birds began flying out of the trees, one after another. A snake was slithering up along a branch, Ron reacted quickly. He grabbed a bunch of leaves and twigs and formed a ball and a lacrosse stick. He tried throwing the ball at the snake but it clung tightly to the branch. Peter had an idea, “Ron, toss me the lacrosse stick.” Load some twigs in the net of your stick. Peter tossed over thirty twigs, he hit the snake and it made him furious. Tom said, “Might I suggest something? Quick, get a vine and tie that ball to the end of it. Hold the vine and swing the ball to knock the snake of the branch.” “It worked!” Ron said loudly. “Well, it almost worked.” When the snake fell off the branch, he slithered away. But then, he came back with more than twenty-five other snakes! The next thing the salamanders knew, they were tied around the tree. “Way to go Einstein” said Ron and Peter. “Sorry guys, I didn’t think they were that strong” said Tom. “Peter, can you give me the sharpest vine you have” said Ron. “What for?” asked Peter. “You’ll see” whispered Ron. “Now I get it, your going to make a razor to cut though the vines” said Peter. “If you’re going to do that, take my super utility belt” said Peter. “You read my mind” said Ron. Tom asked, “How long will it take?” Ron replied, “Oh about five more minutes.” In no time at all, they were free. “Now what are we going to do?” asked Tom and Peter. “We are going to sneak around this tree and run to the 14th tree to the north side of the forest” said Ron. “On my signal, we will go around the tree.” “What is the signal?” asked Tom. “I will just wave my hand.” “Ready, set, go!” whispered Ron. “What happened to waving your hand?” said Peter. “I don’t know, I just wanted to say Ready, Set, Go!” said Ron.
When they arrived at the 14th tree, they saw five hungry owls. “Oh No!”
“Here we go again!” said Peter.

Stay Tuned for the next adventure of the Amazing Salamanders.

Join the Discussion

This article has 11 comments. Post your own now!

Hobbit@Heart said...
Nov. 29, 2011 at 3:57 pm
Pretty odd; but I love it.. Keep writing!
apocalyptigirl said...
Oct. 5, 2010 at 8:40 pm
today's top voted are such random i like this. A lot. But it would be easier to read if the dialogue was put into different paragraphs....just a formatting issue.
mcbridet said...
Oct. 22, 2009 at 6:15 pm
I really liked this piece. First, you incorporated a lot of personification like how the salamanders talked and how they played sports. Next, I liked how you made the salamanders use their abilities to get past the snakes. Another thing I liked about this piece is how you put some humor in it when Peter says, "Here we go again". Overall, I liked this piece.
sherbinej said...
Oct. 2, 2009 at 9:11 am
I really liked this story because you have ordinary salamanders doing extraordinary things. Also I liked when you said "Ron played many sports and was always voted most valuable player, because it shows what they do when their not fighting crime. I also thought that it was cool that you gave them well-known super powers. Maybe you could use a little more details next time. Hope to read more though.
Ryan T. said...
Sept. 30, 2009 at 6:20 pm
Hey guys Writer of This article and wanted o let you all know there is another/ better story involving Ron,Peter,and Tom tonight!!!!!
drago said...
Sept. 30, 2009 at 2:10 pm
this was a great story, cant wait for more
Nightwing 21 said...
Sept. 30, 2009 at 2:06 pm
I think that you were very repetitive and it was kind of hard to follow. I would work on finding other ways to show who is saying what instead of , he said he said he said. other than that, it was ok
Randall R. said...
Sept. 29, 2009 at 9:07 pm
I'm part of Karls group and I personally liked it I can't wait for more about the amazing salamanders.
Shanaynay said...
Sept. 29, 2009 at 1:22 pm
We thought your story was ok it was confusing who was talking also where do they get all the things they have :-)
cbandca said...
Sept. 29, 2009 at 11:51 am
It was a good idea but we thought that when the salamanders got caught the story could've used more detail.
karls group said...
Sept. 29, 2009 at 9:28 am
I enjoyed your story and it could use more details.
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April 27, 2010
By , Carol Stream, IL
The beach resonated a clear, crisp blue that stretched towards the horizon. Standing on the rocky soils of the sand stood numerous amounts of canines, barking tenaciously. All of them were good friends, but today they showed their molars at each other. They all glared at the lone, green tennis ball lying down the beach. The only thing that kept them from retrieving it was the starting line, hung by two sticks put deep through the sand. A rectangular speaker was to the right of the stick on the right. Today, the beach was having the annual capture the tennis ball contest, nicknamed ‘Dogfight’.
“I’ll be winning the prize again my friends!” Bill boasted. Bill was the champions of this contest for six straight years, having many fans look up to him in admiration.
“Not this time, bro! I’ll be taking the reward!” Steve barked.
“Hey, hey, hey! Don’t forget about me!” Jim roared. Both hounds were rivals to Bill, both coming close to snatching the prize. However, Bill was just a step ahead of them every time.
“Everyone, may I have your attention, please?” The sudden sound surged stupendously from the speaker. The growling stopped immediately, and the dogs pointed their ears toward the speaker. One mystery of this prestigious competition was the announcer. He was human, because the voice had no bark to it. The voice began again. “Good! Now everyone knows the rules, correct? You must hold the ball for a total of five consecutive seconds. That means if you lose the ball, it won’t add up if you reclaim the ball again. Whoever wins earns themselves a lifetime’s supply of Dingy Dingilos’ Dog Food!”
The barking began again, louder than before. The waves of the beach seemed to reflect the dogs’ barking, as they grew bigger and bigger as well.
“Oh, yes! Dingy Dingilos! My all-time favorite!” Bill bellowed.
“Yeah, too bad I’ll be claiming the prize this time around!” pronounced Jim. The howling continued for what was a millennium, until a single mutt stepped onto the beach. The noise disappeared, and novices of the contest exasperated for air. Rasped breathing leaked out of the speakers.
“Oh my! Everyone, give a round of wiggling tails to the one and only, Zimmy Zambersky!” the announcer yelled.
Tails wagged left and right, even the champion Bill wagged his tail with recognition. “For anyone who doesn’t know Zimmy, he is the pooch who claimed the championship eighteen times!” The wagging continued even more furiously, until a solitary bark filled the air.
“Everyone, please! I am but an old pup now. I wouldn’t have a chance at winning now. My son, however; is competing in the Dogfight.” Zimmy announced.
Every mutt grew quiet, pondering about what the legendary champion had said.

“Zimmy, you have a son?” Jim asked. Jim jumped as Zimmy turned to him.

“Why, yes. His name is Hubert. This is his first time at this, but he has my blood. Don’t underestimate him, my friends!” Zimmy replied.

“Where is your son, Zimmy?” an unknown dog questioned.
A light chuckle erupted from Zimmy.

“My lad is to the right of you, dear boy!” Zimmy answered.
All of the eyes looked to the right of the mutt, and what was there was a puppy. Bill stepped toward Zimmy and shouted,

“You’re kidding! Right, Zimmy? That pup looks not even four years old. You think he will win?”

“Well, of course,” Zimmy declared. “Hubert, show them your teeth!”
“Right, Dad!” Hubert responded.
Everyone gasped as they saw Hubert’s gigantic molars, perfect for gripping the tennis ball. Bill immediately stepped back.

“Okay, everyone! Enough chatter! The fifty-first annual Dogfight will begin shortly, everyone prepare for the whistle! It may come as soon as I stop talking, so be prepared!” the announcer exclaimed from the speaker.

“Okay Hubert, show them who’s boss!” Zimmy bellowed.

“Got it, Dad!” Hubert answered.
Every tail-wagger crouched to dash as soon as the whistle blew, each wanting to win. FWEEEEEEEEEEEEET! Hubert had gained the lead for the ball, with Bill close behind, followed by Jim and Steve. The veterans of this contest already had a sufficient distance for the ball, with Hubert, a blood relative of Zimmy being first.

The ball was only a few feet away after only three seconds, and Bill tried to seize the moment with a pounce. Jim and Steve read the movement and began to jump too. Soon, it became a mess of dogs on the tennis ball, nobody knowing where the ball was.

“Dad, dad, I have the ball!” Hubert yelped.
All eyes turned to Hubert except for Jim and Steve, who were biting him for the ball.

“One, two-,” the announcer began.
Jim caught the ball by his teeth trying to push it away from Hubert. The tennis ball flew downwards, bouncing once until Bill emerged from the dog pile and grabbed it.
“One, two, three, fo-,” the announcer rippled.
Bill was tackled by Steve, with the ball flying way to the left of the beach, no one near the ball at all except for one hound.
“One, two, three, four, five! We have a winner! For the nineteenth time, champion Zimmy Zambersky has won the Dogfight!” the announcer screamed.

“Hey, I thought you weren’t competing, Zimmy!” a weary Jim yelled, which Zimmy retorted with;

“Well, I wasn’t going to, but then I remembered it was Dingy Dingilos’ Dog Food! I love that stuff!”

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