What people think of Jayna Rosentreter Photography
Jayna Rosentreter has a natural gift, her photographs tell more than a story....they breathe life into the walls of my home, they make me smile on a rainy no-good day, they take me back to the unique moments in my life journey that I want to remember, they depict the absolute blessings I sometimes overlook but others notice right away and sweetly remind me of. Jayna has the knack, she has the eye, she has the creative vision, she has what it takes to wow you with her photography style. I'm in awe every time Jayna photographs my family! I always have a hard time narrowing down my favorites because often times we like most or all of them. I have had several prints enlarged to canvas or custom finish and they have turned out amazing! She definitely has your best interest in mind when making recommendations on your order. We feel so entirely comfortable around her, we absolutely trust her expertise and advice, we are thrilled and always pleased way beyond our expectations when viewing proofs and our final photos. Jayna Rosentreter is always my first choice (hands down) when it comes to photography for any family occasion or any event...you will love her and her work!
Jayna is one of the easiest photographers to work with. She allows you to voice what you prefer, what you like, what you don't like, and is non-intrusive but still seems to capture some amazing photos. She did exactly as I wanted with my son's senior pictures and with our family photos; they turned out exactly as I wanted them to and still have an artistic feel to them. Jayna is also one of the nicest and most relateable people I know; she puts an ease to you during the shoot that is evident in the end product. I have received many compliments about the photos and you cannot beat the price. I would recommend anyone using her.


Nestled in the heart of Phoenix, Arizona, the Heard Museum stands as a beacon of Native American art, history, and culture. Established in 1929, the museum has become a prominent institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the diverse heritage of indigenous peoples from across the Americas. With its extensive collection, vibrant exhibitions, and engaging programs, the Heard Museum offers visitors an enriching experience that highlights the beauty, complexity, and resilience of Native American traditions.
A Living Legacy:
The Heard Museum serves as a testament to the vision and dedication of its founders, Dwight and Maie Heard. Their passion for indigenous art and culture led them to collect a vast array of artifacts and artwork, forming the foundation of the museum’s renowned permanent collection. Today, the museum’s collection boasts over 44,000 objects, including traditional and contemporary art, textiles, pottery, jewelry, and sculpture, representing the diverse cultures of more than 200 Native American tribes. For more information.
Exploring the Exhibitions:
Visitors to the Heard Museum can embark on a captivating journey through the museum’s various galleries and exhibitions. One of the museum’s most celebrated showcases is the “Home: Native People in the Southwest” exhibition. This immersive display delves into the lives and traditions of Southwest Native American tribes, offering insights into their dwellings, clothing, tools, and rituals.
Another must-see exhibition is “Remembering Our Indian School Days: The Boarding School Experience.” This poignant exhibit sheds light on the assimilation policies imposed on Native American children, exploring their experiences in government-run boarding schools. Through personal narratives, photographs, and artifacts, visitors gain a deeper understanding of the profound impact these schools had on indigenous communities.
The Heard Museum is also committed to showcasing contemporary Native American art. The “Native American Contemporary Arts” exhibition features innovative works by established and emerging artists, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity. From paintings and sculptures to multimedia installations, this collection celebrates the dynamism and creativity of Native American artists today.
Engaging Programs and Events:
Beyond its exhibitions, the Heard Museum offers a range of programs and events that engage visitors of all ages. The museum hosts artist demonstrations, lectures, and workshops, providing opportunities to learn directly from Native American artists and experts. These interactive experiences foster a deeper appreciation for the cultural practices and artistic techniques employed by indigenous artisans.
The annual “World Championship Hoop Dance Contest” held at the Heard Museum is a much-anticipated event. Hoop dancers from various tribes showcase their skill and agility, mesmerizing audiences with their intricate footwork and graceful movements. This contest celebrates the rich tradition of hoop dancing and serves as a platform for cultural exchange and celebration. Visit The Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix.
Preserving and Educating:
The Heard Museum’s commitment to preservation extends beyond its collections and exhibitions. The museum houses a state-of-the-art conservation lab, where experts work tirelessly to restore and preserve delicate artifacts. Through meticulous research and conservation efforts, the museum ensures that these invaluable cultural treasures endure for future generations.
Education is a cornerstone of the Heard Museum’s mission. The museum offers educational programs tailored to students of all ages, from interactive school tours to cultural workshops. By providing comprehensive and accurate information about Native American history and culture, the Heard Museum contributes to the dismantling of stereotypes and fosters a greater understanding and respect for indigenous peoples.
The Heard Museum stands as a vital institution dedicated to celebrating and preserving the vibrant cultures of Native American peoples. With its extensive collection, immersive exhibitions, engaging programs, and commitment to education, the museum serves as a bridge between past and present, honoring the traditions of indigenous communities while promoting a more inclusive and equitable future.


- Warning: There are spoilers forward for "Eternals."
- There are many apparent references in "Eternals." Insider rounds up a few of the greatest nods and behind-the scenes details you may have missed.
- Captain America's defend exhibits up briefly and there's a nod to Ajak's first comedian look.
In the comics, Domo is an Eternal on Olympia who works immediately with the chief of the Eternals, Zuras. Neither of them seem in the Marvel film.
Here, the ship is known as after the character.
Zack Snyder’s model of Superman impressed Ikaris.
In “Eternals,” Phastos’ son Jack errors Ikaris for DC’s Man of Steel, as a result of they each can fly and shoot lasers out of their eyes.
In an interview with French outlet jeuxactu.com, which has been translated, director Chloé Zhao stated Snyder’s interpretation of the hero impressed her essentially the most due to his method to the parable in an genuine manner.
She added that “Ikaris is after all our personal tackle Superman.”
Special title indicators have been created for the Eternals by one of many stars, Lauren Ridloff, and her husband, Douglas.
Douglas Ridloff labored on the movie as its American Sign Lanuage advisor. Lauren Ridloff told Fandango how the 2 got here up with fast methods to signal the names of Eternals.
“We had labored in collaboration, my husband and I, arising with totally different title indicators for every of the characters,” Ridloff stated, including that the duo integrated some Easter eggs into two of the indicators as nods to Douglas and one in all their two sons.
“Kingo, clearly, it is primarily based on his energy. He shoots lasers, he has laser weapons, after which he is also a Bollywood dancer,” stated Ridloff. “It additionally occurred to be the title signal of my youngest son, Wyatt.
The title signal for Makkari additionally incorporates the title signal for Lauren’s husband.
“It’s actually near the ear and we picked that as a result of I do not know if you may see in the film, however Makkari tends to put on numerous earrings,” Ridloff stated of her character’s title signal. “In actual life, that occurred to be the title signal for my husband.”
In the unique “Eternals” comedian, most of the movie characters have been initially males.
Ajak, Makkari, and Sprite have been all male characters in the unique comedian run.
By gender-flipping their characters, the movie introduces 5 male and 5 feminine superheroes to the MCU.
Producer Nate Moore told Screen Rant the choice to vary a personality’s gender was at all times particular to their story.
“Sprite, the boy who by no means grew up, is one thing you’ve seen lots,” stated Moore. “The woman who by no means grew up appears to be slightly little bit of a brisker concept, so it is simply these artistic conversations to create a steadiness that we thought was attention-grabbing.”
The Eternals are seen in Tenochtitlan in the course of the fall of the Aztec Empire.
In the unique comedian run, Ajak wanted to be awaken from a tomb inside the Aztec Empire.
There, Ajak was believed to be an Incan hero named Tecumotzin.
Kingo is a Captain America fan.
The first model of Cap’s defend (or a reproduction of it) will be noticed on his jet.
It’s humorous that Kingo has this model of the defend since Steve Rogers used it when he was merely an actor for the federal government’s battle propoganda. In “Eternals,” Kingo is a well-known Bollywood actor.
Kingo made a gaggle of “Shadow Warrior” motion pictures, hinting at a superhero group.
In the comics, there’s a group of heroes called the Shadow Warriors who have been created because the final hope in opposition to the specter of the X-Men character Apocalypse.
Thena mentions the demise of Centuri-Six.
It’s one of many planets they destroyed earlier than coming to Earth to assist delivery a Celestial.
Centuri-Six is a planet talked about in Thor issue No. 258. There, we be taught from one in all its residents, Gormok, that the planet was raided by a legal named Grey Gargoyle and his pirate ship.
He imprisoned the planet’s peaceable folks made up of philosophers and artisans on his ship the place they lived out their days as slaves.
Ikaris asks Phastos if his desk is made out of Vibranium earlier than slamming his fist onto it and breaking it.
Vibranium, one of many strongest metals on the planet, is from Wakanda. Black Panther’s go well with is fabricated from vibranium.
Makkari and Druig’s costumes purposefully have extra purple in them.
According to the movie’s manufacturing notes, the costume crew, led by costume designer Sammy Sheldon Differ, checked out minerals, nature, rocks, nebulas, and the cosmos to encourage the look of the superhero fits seen in the movie.
Six fits have been made for every character. As they undergo time, the fits have delicate modifications which may be troublesome to note on a primary watch. For instaance, Druig’s costumes develop into darker because the movie progresses by way of time. Thena’s costume turns into “extra fragile and mushy.”
“The extra rebellious characters like Druig and Makkari have purple in their costumes that nobody else has. The leaders, Ajak and Ikaris, are inclined to veer extra in the direction of blue,” producer Nate Moore stated in the movie’s manufacturing notes. “We tried to have common ideas for the way we dressed folks. Some of that’s impressed by comics, like Ikaris is in blue in the comics. Thena is in gold in the comics.”
When they reboard the Domo late in the movie, Sprite asks Thena if she discovered the Ebony Blade.
As the Eternals look over the objects Makkari has acquired on the Domo through the years, Thena finds a sword, which Sprite errors for the Ebony Blade.
Thena says it is really Excalibur, King Arthur’s sword. The Ebony Blade belongs to a Marvel character named the Black Knight.
We later see the Ebony Blade in the movie’s second end-credits sequence. Dane Whitman (Kit Harington) opens a field to seek out the cursed sword inside.
Harington instructed Insider he was “excited that Dane comes into contact with this sword,” including that he thought it was a “actually robust ending to the film.”
“It makes me wish to see what’s subsequent, and the truth that may embrace me is thrilling,” Harington stated.
Kro tells Thena that she has modified, implying that the 2 knew one another.
In the comics, the 2 had an intimate relationship. Kro typically aligned with the Eternals due to his love for Thena. That’s not explored in “Eternals.”
It feels hinted at in the movie that there may have been some kind of connection between the 2 that wasn’t defined.
Bill Skarsgard, who performed Pennywise the Clown, was the voice of Kro.
If the voice of the Deviant sounded acquainted, it belonged to the “It” and “Deadpool 2” star.
At the movie’s finish, Arishem says he’ll return to Earth to determine whether or not or not he’ll spare the planet.
Arishem, the Prime Celestial, tells Sersi, Phastos, and Kingo that he’ll return to the planet for judgment to see if it needs to be destroyed.
In the comics, Arishem stands nonetheless on a pylon for 50 years to evaluate whether or not or not humanity is value saving. If he decides they are not worthy, he’ll merely destroy the planet and all of its inhabitants.
The inside the Domo is meant to appear to be the within of a meteor.
According to the movie’s manufacturing notes, director Chloé Zhao and manufacturing designer Eve Stewart researched Jack Kirby’s comics, spiritual symbolism, historic symbols, and alien influences to assist design the outside of the Eternals’ ship, the Domo.
Circles inside triangles are used on the ship and all through the movie as an emblem of unity. Stewart studied meteors on the Science Museum in London to work along with her crew to make the inside of the ship appear to be the within of a meteor.
“We labored actually exhausting on the textures in order that it seemed like the within of a meteor and actually historic,” Stewart stated in the movie’s manufacturing notes. “I used to be actually excited to see some house mud that had arrived on a small meteor that was seven billion years outdated and had lately been found. It was the identical shade.”
Patton Oswalt voiced Pip the Troll.
A personality named Pip the Troll seems in the primary end-credits scene to introduce Starfox.
You may have been too surprised by Harry Styles’ sudden cameo as Thanos’ brother to comprehend that the comic was voicing Starfox’s comrade.
The thriller voice on the movie’s finish belongs to the Vampire hunter Blade.
During the movie’s second end-credits scene, a voice warns Dane Whitman (Kit Harington) about touching a mysterious sword.
Zhao confirmed to Fandom it was the voice of Oscar winner Mahershala Ali who was beforehand introduced to play Blade at 2019’s San Diego Comic-Con.
An untitled “Blade” reboot is at present in the works at Marvel with no launch date connected.
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In the last few years, I realised that I have been listening almost exclusively Japanese and Mandarin songs. In the past, the English songs I listened to tended to be Oldies from the 50s and 60s. After songs from that era, there is a big gap. I have never taken to contemporary songs even during my growing up years.
Recently, I wondered what is it about Mandarin and Japanese songs that drew me to them and not English songs.
The first answer that came to my mind was that I do not like songs without a nice melody. It seems to me that contemporary English songs tend to be heavy on beats, and for some songs that is all there is. I think I more or less stopped listening to English songs after Debbie Gibson (call it bubble gum pop if you will, but I like them).
A Picture Paints A Thousand Words
Then, I realise that there is something else that draws me to Japanese and Mandarin songs. Something that is lacking or lost in English songs – evocative, poetic lyrics.
Recently, I listened to a talk where the speaker described the English language as being a functional, practical language direct to the point. Perhaps he was describing the way it is being used now, but that made something click in my mind.
For example, when describing feelings of love, it seems that English songs tend to very direct – “I wanna hold your hand…”, “I can wait forever…”, “Lonely, I’m mister lonely…” are some examples. Though nice songs all of them, they do not provide anything more than telling the listener “the facts”.
On the other hand, Japanese and Mandarin songs like to use imagery to describe the singer’s feelings. They paint pictures in your mind. These images allow you to know and feel what they singing about. These images are beautiful and that is what seems to be missing in English lyrics.
For example, an excerpt from the song “M” by Princess Princess (Click to Listen):
You are only in my fantasy
肩の向こうに見えた景色さえも So once again
Leavin’for the place without your love
The translation in the bold section goes something like this:
Like stars returning to the forest
Your little nuances spontaneously disappear
Along with the playful person I once was
The lyrics paints a picture of breaking dawn. The singer looks on and sees stars slowly fading into brightening sky above the forest. She realises that she is losing her memory of her loved one. With that a part of her has also started to disappear. You will be hard pressed to find something like that in an English song.
Take another song, this time an Enka by Sakamoto Fuyumi titled “風に立つ” (Kaze Ni Tatsu – Standing Against the Wind) (Click to Listen):
雨風にたたかれて 頭(こうべ)をたれる ときもある
The rough translation goes like this:
There are days when we are blown by the mountain air, when we can puff out our chests.
There are also times where we are beaten by driving rain and hang our heads low.
But as long as we live, in life there are mountains, valleys and winding roads. Therefore, in life, we can only push on.
Again, the lyricist paints a picture and as the music flows, you can almost feel the rain on your face as you struggle up that winding path. This is a beautiful, powerful song of encouragement.
Here is a much loved Chinese song by Ah Mei – “听海” (Listen to the Sea) (Click to Listen):
The rough translation goes something like this:
Listen to the sound of the sea crying
Sighing because someone is heartbroken, and yet doesn’t realize it
That person cannot be me, for at least I am calm
But my tears, even my own tears will not believe me
Listen to the sound of the sea crying
The sea is too emotional weeping till the sun rises
Write me a letter, and let it be our last covenant
Telling me how you felt when you left me
These songs paint pictures and let you see, explore and then allow you decide how it felt to you. They make each song personal to the listener. That is where I think they are special.
Of course, there are English songs that also use lyrics like this – “Vincent”, “A Whiter Shade of Pale” – but somehow the Mandarin and Japanese lyrics paint more evocative pictures in my mind.
Perhaps the languages were influenced by Chinese poems and Japanese haiku. Precisely how, I do not know. All I know is that I am so grateful to be able to understand and appreciate these beautiful songs.


This is a good question, but first let’s take a quick look at some background of the Royal National Theatre.
The Royal National Theatre, known as the National Theatre of Great Britain internationally, was founded by Laurence Olivier in 1963 at The Old Vic in Waterloo. It’s currently located in South Bank alongside the Thames in Central London. It is one of the UK’s ‘big 3’ publicly funded performing arts venues along with the Royal Opera House and the Royal Shakespeare Company.
It presents a varied programme of wide-ranging classic drama, Shakespeare, and works of contemporary playwrights. Apart from performances in the National Theatre building, it also regularly offers tour productions at theatres throughout the UK. As of June 2009, the National Theatre has also offered National Theatre Live, which comprises simulcasts of live productions that can be seen in cinemas.
What is National Theatre at Home?
National Theatre at Home is a streaming platform launched in November 2020 by the Royal National Theatre in partnership with Bloomberg Philanthropies. It aims to bring the world-class productions of the National Theatre to a national and global audience, as well as providing support for artists and theatre venues.
It therefore makes videos of plays produced by the National Theatre available to watch online anywhere in the world. It functions on a monthly or yearly subscription basis, as well as an on-demand basis.
A digital streaming service was initially made available when the first COVID lockdown was in force in the UK and cinemas and theatres were closed. Apart from providing entertainment for a ‘housebound’ audience, it was a way of providing an income for both out-of-work artists and venues that were standing idle.
How does National Theatre at Home work?
Currently available plays of the National Theatre are on offer, as well as productions from National Theatre Live that were previously supplied to cinemas. More plays are added on an ongoing monthly basis. The on-demand service enables viewers to rent single plays for a 72-hour period. Some archived National Theatre material is also being made available for online release for the first time.
National Theatre at Home works on an on-demand service, or a monthly or annual subscription basis. The monthly subscription is currently £9.98, (US $12.99) with the annual subscription being £99.98 (US $129.99). The rental figure stands at £5.99 (US $7.99) and National Theatre Live on-demand recordings cost £7.99 or US $9.99. Rental figures can vary somewhat as there are special figures available for schools. The figures in other international currencies are available on the National Theatre’s website.
How was the viability of a National Theatre at Home streaming service established?
Initially, for 16 weeks, from the beginning of April to the end of July 2020, National Theatre productions were made available to viewers free of charge on the Theatre’s YouTube channel on Thursday evenings at 7 o’clock UK time. These were also then available for the following seven days on demand.
This offer had an overwhelming positive response over the 4-month period. The 16 productions offered reached 15 million viewers in 173 countries all over the world.
What kind of material is available on National Theatre at Home?
In a word – the best of the Royal National Theatre’s productions! National Theatre at Home gives a global audience access to some of the best productions in British theatre, anywhere, anytime. This includes new productions ‘fresh’ from National Theatre stages, as well as classics from the treasure trove of the National Theatre archives.
The service initially launched with seven National Theatre Live titles:
- Phèdre featuring Helen Mirren
- Josie Rourke’s Coriolanus withTom Hiddleston
- The Young Vic production of Yerma
- The Cherry Orchard
Some of the many other excellent productions that have been featured include Lucy Kirkwood’s Mosquitoes and the Inua Ellams production of Chekhov’s Three Sisters. Also on offer are A Midsummer Night’s Dream with Gwendoline Christie, A Streetcar Named Desire, A View From the Bridge and All My Sons, the 2019 Old Vic production.
Likewise available have been Angels in America, Antigone (the Don Taylor 2012 adaptation of Sophocles’ drama), and Cat on a Hot Tin Roof with Sienna Miller and Jack O’Connell. Julius Caesar with Ben Whishaw playing the lead character is also available, as are many more outstanding productions.
What are the advantages to having National Theatre at Home?
If you are a committed theatre buff, or just like a bit of a change in your TV fare from time-to-time, there are many persuasive reasons for subscribing to National Theatre at Home. These include:
- It is reasonably priced. You can see plays you might not otherwise be able to see due to financial, geographical or other constraints.
- You can watch the plays on any internet browser or through the National Theatre at Home app available on Android, iOS, Amazon Fire TV and Roku TV. You are able to watch at home or on any mobile device.
- New plays are added on a monthly basis giving you something new to anticipate and look forward to.
- You have unlimited access so you can watch whatever you want at a time that suits your schedule and time constraints.
- It is easy to browse and see what plays are available.
- You have early and timely access to new titles as well as exclusive and interesting behind-the-scenes content.
So – is it worth it having National Theatre at Home?
In a nutshell – yes! Very much so, and not just for passionate and committed theatre buffs. With the average London price for a single theatre ticket price pushing £30, and many individual productions charging well over that, the National Theatre at Home’s monthly subscription of £9.98 is extremely reasonable and cracking good value.
As Rufus Norris, the Director and Joint Chief Executive of the National Theatre, says: “The National Theatre has a crucial role to play in supporting the nation’s creativity; it’s an incredible place full of amazing people and elicits enormous affection, pride and passion in audiences around the world.”
National Theatre at Home enables a hugely bigger, indeed, truly global audience, to participate in and partake of the riches this justly celebrated, forward-looking and enterprising national institution produces.
And that at less than half of the cost of a single theatre ticket!


Poser Pro: 3D Art + Animation Software for Windows & Mac
Easily Create & Design 3D Human Figures for Art, Illustration, Animation, Games & More
Technology has come so far, from the days of people sitting for oil paintings, to now being able to pose a digital model right from your computer.
Poser is a 3D computer graphics program optimized for 3D modeling of human figures. It is known for enabling digital artists to easily produce 3D animations and digital images, as well as the extensive availability of third-party digital content. With Poser, human and animal models are prepared for you to start designing and posing immediately. Thousands of poses, morphs, clothing, hair, materials, and accessories are included. Poser delivers the power of interactive 3D figure design, offering infinite opportunities to portray human diversity, form, and expression. Design with the human form for art, illustration, animation, comics, web, print, education, medical visualization, games, storyboarding, pre-visualization, and more.
The Poser Pro animation software can be downloaded on both a Mac or PC, perfect for anyone to use. Creative professionals everywhere are utilizing this amazing software to help bring their concepts to life, and impress their clients, or even just for fun! You can use Poser Pro for as long as you want with this lifetime subscription, so you never have to worry about renewing.
- Thousands of poses, morphs, clothing, hair, materials, and accessories to get started
- Figures are pre-rigged so artists can click-and-drag to pose body parts, sculpt faces, or create ethnic varieties
- Full body morphs, facial expression morphs, & bone rigging are available for any figure
- Brush-based morphing tools for quickly and easily creating shape variations
- Powerful lighting & rendering tools deliver high-quality artistic effects
- Natural lighting, shadows, and subsurface scattering for realistic looking skin, caustics & volumetrics for smoke, fog, and cloud effects
- Final output styles including photorealism, sketch, cartoon, silhouette, real-time comic book mode & more
- Automatic keyframe creation, non-linear animation, lip syncing & a walking simulator to simplify the animation process
- Dynamic props & bullet physics move with your figure and add realism
- Windows 7 or 10
- macOS X 10.9 or later
- Length of access: lifetime
- Redemption deadline: redeem your code within 30 days of purchase
- Device per license: 1
- Access options: desktop
- Software version: 11.3
- Updates included
- Have questions on how digital purchases work? Learn more here
- Unredeemed licenses can be returned for store credit within 30 days of purchase. Once your license is redeemed, all sales are final.
Always wanted to purchase, but was too expensive then. Now I purchased a bit cheaper. Poser is great software.
It is easy to create 3D characters.. But that is not the Poser pro 12 deals. Before you buy, you must know, it is Poser pro 11. But I'm happy in this deal as well.
i was still using poser4 until my machine crashed p4 did not run cleanly on win11 and the new hardware honestly i was a tad skeptical about this price/pkg however, everything worked great and the pkg was amazing at its price point
I love this product. I am an artist looking to take my art to a new level and Poser will be a massive help. Looking forward to mastering Poser and conquering the art world
A panelist at comic-con suggested that it is a good tool for 2D comic art. I am looking forward to using it.
I paid with Paypal and it took a bit for Paypal to release the funds and my key to come, but once it did the software unlocked without any hassles and I was able to download all the bonus material from the poser website. As a DazStudio user, it's taking a bit of time of relearn everything, but the software works great!


The Moment It Clicks: Photographic Stories #1: Trumpeter Swans
We live in a world of motion. John Muir knew it: “Everything is flowing—going somewhere… pulsed on and on forever like blood… in Nature’s warm heart.” Like flowing blood, motion means survival to most creatures. Call it the dance of life, the swirl of species.
There are many variations on the dance. Birds, animals, fish, and insects are moving around us all the time. But twice a year this swirl of species reaches a crescendo. Triggered by a slant of sunlight or dips in temperature, guided by inner compass bearings we hardly understand, millions of creatures are on the move each spring and fall in the grand spectacle of seasonal migration. Wildlife biologists estimate that one-third of all the birds on the planet migrate—that’s 5.7 billion birds on the wing over North America, sometimes in flocks so immense they appear on radar screens.
One of my favorite migration spectacles is the return of trumpeter swans. As soon as the rivers and streams begin to open, the swans begin to move north with the thaw, thrumming the spring air with their wingbeats. They are huge birds with a wingspan of over six feet, the largest waterfowl species native to North America. To stand beneath the swans arrowing across the spring sky, neck bent, ears buffeted by their wild calls, is to connect with an ancient dance, the spring migration.
They return each year to a bend in a small northern river not far from where I live. The first sight of them is often mirage-like. One day the river bend is empty. The next day there are swans. It is as if tufts of the very snow itself have sprouted wings.
It is not difficult to see them on this stretch of river but getting close enough to photograph them is not easy. They are wary and weary from their long trip. It seems intrusive to “stalk” them with a camera and risk disturbing them into wasting even more energy in fleeing. So, I don’t. I find a spot in the open, a place where they can see me clearly and avoid me if they wish. I just sit, reveling in simply being on the same river bend as these beautiful birds, letting them come nearer, or not. It is enough, and many days I go home without a single photograph.
But, one day, I had been in my spot for hours as geese, ducks, and swans swirled around me. I had taken very few photographs that day, just listening, watching. The warmth of the spring sun soon lulled me to sleep, my camera on my chest. But, before I dozed, I remembered something photographer Michael Melford had taught me once: always preset your camera to the conditions just in case. And, lucky I did.
I don’t know how long I slept but, I woke suddenly to the air above me being brushed by wings, a pair of swans passing directly overhead. I grabbed my camera without even sitting up with time for just one frame before they were gone. The photograph above is the result: one moment in the spring migration, one step in the dance of life.
(Prints of this photograph are available. If you are interested, drop me a message.)


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My name is Chantal Piché and I am Franco-Manitoban. I am known to have illustrated children's books in my home province. After settling in Montreal and obtaining a certification in illustration, I am now entering the Quebec market.
I mainly illustrate children's books and educational material. My signature is in my expressive and colorful style inspired by Japanese animation.
My favorite thing about my job is nurturing people's imagination, adults and kids alike. It is also important for me to make what I illustrate as dynamic and interactive as possible to encourage learning, whether for a text or an activity. I love hiding funny details to find among my images!
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Featuring presenters from across the West
The heritage of the original inhabitants of the Great Plains will be celebrated at Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site on Saturday, October 20 during the park’s Native American Heritage Day. The public is invited to observe and, in several cases participate, in a host of activities including talks on Plains Tribal culture, art and dance demonstrations and workshops, and living history portrayals of trading sessions.
The park will be open from 9 am to 4 pm on October 20 with ongoing living history activities such as tipi life, trade activities, livestock use, adobe work, blacksmithing and an array of special programs. Experts on Native culture from Oklahoma, North Dakota, Oregon and Colorado will share their extensive knowledge, experience and skills with park visitors.
From 10 am to 3 pm, Michael Terry also known as “Bad Hand” will demonstrate and discuss his massive collection of Plains Indian regalia and equipment. Bad Hand is a Native American historian, lecturer, stuntman, replica maker and artist. His books include “Plains Indian Regalia and Customs” (sold in the Bent’s Fort park store) and “Daily Life in a Plains Indian Village 1868.” Bad Hand has appeared in and consulted on such films as “Dances with Wolves,” “Far and Away,” and “Geronimo.”
Award-winning artist George Curtis Levi, a member of the Southern Cheyenne Tribe of Oklahoma, will present art workshops at the fort from 10 am to 12 pm and again from 1 pm to 3 pm. The art and history of the Cheyenne people motivate him in his art. He specializes in ledger art, and also acrylic and watercolor paintings. Prints of George’s art are sold in the park’s store. The workshops will include the history and examples of ledger art, followed by having participants try their own hand at creating ledger art pieces that they can take home with them.
Loren Yellow Bird, a park ranger at Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site in North Dakota and member of the Arikara tribe, will present a session on Plains Indian Culture at 11 am and a program on the impacts of trade on the Plains Tribes at 3 pm.
The Seven Falls Indian Dancers will perform in the fort plaza at 12 pm and 2 pm. The dancers are a family dance troupe representing four generations of dancers from the Pawnee, Flandreau Santee Sioux and Crow Creek Sioux tribes. They have been dancing throughout Colorado for nearly 30 years. The dancers present social and exhibition dances from several different tribes. The origins of the dances are explained with stories.
From 1 pm to 3 pm David Balicki from La Junta’s Koshare Museum will present his beadwork and will lead a workshop for visitors to create their own small beaded piece to take home.
“Native American Heritage Day at Bent’s Old Fort recognizes the integral role the Plains tribes played in the life of the fort,” said Park Superintendent Alexa Roberts. “The business of the fort was trading with the tribes. Without the tribes, the fort would not have existed. But more than that, William Bent and other fort employees married into the tribes, so they were not only customers, they were family. We hope everyone will join us on October 20th for a celebration of these vibrant nations that made the fort a great example of cultural collaboration.”
The park will charge a special event fee for Native American Heritage Day. The fee for this full day of activities is only $5.00 for visitors 13 and older and $2.00 for ages 6 to 12. Kids 5 and under are free. National Park Passes are honored for this fee. Fees will be collected at the fort entrance.
Lunch will be available for purchase at the park’s picnic area provided by Johnny’s Barbeque of Pueblo, serving brisket, green chile and a variety of lunch items. Visitors are also welcome to bring their own picnics.
Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site is located on Colorado Highway 194, 8 miles east of La Junta or 15 miles west of Las Animas. For more information, call the park at (719) 383-5010.


Heavenscape — Architecture of Infinity is music frozen into architecture. It doesn't start, stop or describe anything. It just is itself. The sound installation is performed daily at HAM Tennispalatsi.
Heavenscape is a spatial 6-channel sound installation which evokes a more tangible and physical essence of sound. The phenomenon of sound is of spatial rather than temporal nature. Sound is matter. Therefore, one might not necessarily listen to it as a piece of music but rather experience it as an architectural space.
In our time, when even understanding and truth itself is being challenged, Heavenscape compels the listener to expand their experience and concept of seeing and hearing.
Heavenscape has been inspired by the architecture of sacral edifices, fractal geometry, Gregorian and Byzantine chants as well as traditional Arabic music. The piece also expresses the spirituality shared by all cultures. Just as the seemingly different musical traditions around the globe share apparent structural and mathematical properties, so are the religions of the world often connected by the concept of holy, eternity, the beyond and heaven.
One can listen to the work at Ola Kolehmainen’s exhibition Sacred Spaces in HAM Tennispalatsi, Eteläinen Rautatiekatu 8. See the HAM website for Heavenscape performance times.


Music Learning Supports All Learning® ~ set a foundation for life. Weekday and Weekend Class offerings in Belfast, Rockport, Rockland. Find out what you can do to nurture the musical growth of your child, regardless of your own musical ability.
Click here to watch a sample mixed-age family class.
Music Together® is an international early childhood music and movement program for children from birth through age 8- and the grownups who love them. First offered to the public in 1987, it pioneered the concept of a research-based, developmentally appropriate early childhood music curriculum that strongly emphasizes and facilitates adult involvement.


Some time back, I purchased an e-booklet of patterns for lace baby blankets from a designer. I downloaded the PDF files to my computer and set about knitting the projects as gifts for friends who were expecting babies. The blankets ranged from simple to challenging, from impressive to spectacular. I became a fairly good lace knitter in the process, learning to follow charts, to make time-saving lifelines, to repair mistakes, and to do all the increases and decreases that are the hallmark of lace knitting. I made one blanket in particular - a white lace christening blanket - that took weeks of knitting and ripping to complete. The finished project was worth every minute of agita - it was gorgeous.
Because I had become a lace enthusiast, when Mother's Day rolled around, my husband purchased for me a copy of Barbara G. Walker's classic reference book, A Treasury of Knitting Patterns. I thumbed through the book with enthusiasm and nearly dropped it on the floor when I saw in the book the exact lace pattern that had been the basis of my white christening blanket.
The designer had simply taken the lace pattern, put a border around it, and repackaged it as her own design.
I didn't - and still don't - know much about the ethics of writing knitting patterns, but my reaction at the time was a combination of disappointment and anger. I had paid for a pattern that I could have created myself. It wouldn't be that hard to just take one of Walker's charts and transform it into a blanket of my own unique design. I can do that, I told myself.
And so I did. My dear friend Stephanie announced her pregnancy last spring, and I wanted to make a spectacular and one-of-a-kind gift for her. I flipped through my copy of A Treasury of Knitting Patterns, looking for a pretty lace pattern that would look nice as a baby blanket for Stephanie's newborn daughter.
I settled on a pattern called "Pine Tree Lace." I added a seed-stitch border around the lace, calculated my gauge, and cast on a crib-sized blanket (about 32 inches by 42 inches). I worked on it all summer. The baby is due in November, and she'll be sleeping under the very first blanket that I designed all by myself (with a little help from my pattern reference book).
Click here for the link to the Ravelry project page, which will give you needle and yarn information. Click on the links above to purchase Ms. Walker's wonderful dictionary of lace stitches.


The Journey of a Cabinet Maker: Crafting Quality in Vero Beach
Our journey in the world of cabinet making is rooted in the sandy shores and vibrant community of Vero Beach. This picturesque locale isn’t just our home; it’s the birthplace of our passion for woodworking. Here, the art of cabinet making transcends mere construction—it’s a blend of tradition, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to quality.
In Vero Beach, we’re not just building cabinets; we’re crafting legacies. Each piece of wood is selected with care, shaped by skilled hands, and transformed into more than just furniture. It’s a testament to the enduring beauty and functionality that define our work.
Meet the Cabinet Maker: A Story of Passion and Precision
Our story began with a simple love for woodworking. What started as a hobby, fueled by a fascination with the intricacies of wood and design, has blossomed into a professional pursuit of excellence. Every cabinet we create is a piece of our journey, reflecting the dedication and precision that is the hallmark of our craft.
This journey is not just about mastering the tools and techniques. It’s about understanding the soul of the wood, the desires of our clients, and the timeless beauty of functional art. Our hands may shape the wood, but it’s our passion that carves out the unique identity of each piece.
The Process of Crafting Quality Cabinets
The secret to our high-quality cabinets lies in our meticulous process. Selecting the right wood is the first, crucial step. We choose each piece for its grain, color, and character, ensuring it meets our high standards for durability and aesthetics.
Our tools, a blend of traditional and modern equipment, allow us to maintain precision while embracing efficiency. From the initial cut to the final polish, every step is performed with an eye for detail, ensuring that each cabinet is not just built to last, but also to inspire.
Design Philosophy: Blending Aesthetics with Functionality
We believe that the best designs emerge from a harmonious blend of beauty and utility. Our cabinets are tailored to meet the unique needs and tastes of our clients, ensuring that each piece is as functional as it is aesthetically pleasing.
Attention to detail is paramount in our design process. We consider every aspect, from the ergonomics of use to the integration of the cabinet into its intended space. Our goal is to create pieces that enhance the daily lives of our clients while adding a touch of elegance to their homes.
Sustainability in Cabinet Making
Sustainability is at the heart of our operations. We’re committed to eco-friendly practices, from sourcing sustainable materials to minimizing waste. Our approach is not just about being environmentally responsible; it’s about ensuring the longevity and health of our craft and our community.
By choosing sustainable materials, we’re not only preserving the environment but also providing our clients with healthier, more durable products. It’s a commitment that we’re proud of and one that we believe is essential to the future of cabinet making.
The Business of Cabinet Making in Vero Beach
Navigating the cabinet making market in Vero Beach comes with its unique challenges and opportunities. As a local business, we’re deeply connected to the community, understanding its needs and preferences. This connection allows us to tailor our services and products to meet local demands while maintaining our high standards of quality.
Building our brand has been a journey of fostering trust and ensuring customer satisfaction. Our reputation is built on the quality of our work and the relationships we’ve cultivated with our clients. It’s a testament to our commitment to excellence and our love for the craft.
Client Stories: Transforming Spaces with Custom Cabinets
At the heart of our work are our clients’ stories, which we view with immense pride. Each project we undertake is more than just a task – it’s a collaborative journey where we work closely with our clients to transform their spaces into personalized sanctuaries. Our dedication is not just to the craft of cabinet making, but to reinventing living spaces by striking the perfect balance between aesthetic appeal and practical functionality.
Our expertise shines through in every project, whether it’s revitalizing a kitchen or customizing a living area with bespoke cabinetry. These transformations are clear indicators of our unwavering commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. The positive feedback and contentment of our clients are what drive us, fueling our passion to continuously hone our skills and deliver outstanding results in each and every home.
Future Trends in Cabinet Making
As we look to the future, we’re excited about the innovations shaping our industry. From advancements in sustainable materials to new design trends, we’re constantly evolving to stay at the forefront of cabinet making.
Our commitment is to continue embracing these changes, ensuring that we remain synonymous with quality, innovation, and timeless design. We’re not just keeping up with the trends; we’re setting them.
Conclusion: The Art of Cabinet Making in Vero Beach
Our journey is an ongoing story of passion, precision, and dedication to the art of cabinet making. In Vero Beach, we’re not just crafting cabinets; we’re creating a legacy of quality and beauty that stands the test of time.
At Snow Custom Cabinetry, we invite you to be a part of our story, to experience the difference that comes from a deep love for the craft, a commitment to sustainability, and a dedication to client satisfaction. Every cabinet is more than just furniture; it’s a piece of our heart, a part of our journey, and a testament to the enduring beauty of quality craftsmanship.


Visual appeal is one of the most important factors in website design. A trendy and catchy web design can easily grab a user’s attention and boost a brand’s value.
A web design is much more than simple aesthetics; it’s about every ounce of your online presentation. The importance of web design makes it significant for SEO rankings as well. A quality web design means better SEO rankings and an improved user experience.
A study from Logical Media Group claims that 38% of audiences can’t connect to or leave the site if the web design is not properly organized.
Curious to know more? Let’s now talk about some of the most popular web design trends for 2024.
1. Minimalism and Simplicity
Minimalism and simplicity have become one of the most popular trends in every aspect, be it home design or web design.
A minimalist website offers a perfect blend of simplicity and practicality. Some of the key features of minimalist design include classic typography, clean images, and visual hierarchy.
In recent days, designers have combined elements like vibrant color palettes, animation, and regularly updated minimal designs.
2. AI-Generated Imagery
AI has started making an impact in every field, and web design is no exception. With the consistent improvement of AI tools, AI imagery is gaining huge popularity for its ease of use and realistic design.
Websites these days are using AI imagery for clean, attractive, and real-like images.
Also, the images are unique, bold, and customized. They are surely going to be a buzzword in the coming era.
3. Bold and Custom Typography
Bold typography is a classic web design trend that has been here for ages now. It’s a timeless one, and it’s here to stay.
Bold typography makes use of large fonts to quickly catch the user’s attention and make an impact.
These designs are preferred to deliver the brand’s character while being sophisticated and minimalist. They are also popular to improve readability.
Designers these days are playing with typography and adding images and motion to it to make it more real and vibrant.
4. Science-fiction Design
Science-fiction design is quite a popular trend among technology firms these days.
It is one of the most simple yet powerful ways to showcase their personality and brand value. These designs look modern and grab the user’s attention effortlessly.
Sci-fi Web design uses several elements, like technology, visuals like lights and color schemes, and grandiose elements like stars, the universe, planets, and more, to stand out.
5. Sustainable Design
Sustainable web design is a super trendy concept these days. It aims to offer a perfect mix of an improved user experience while not compromising on environmental duties.
A sustainable design aims to be energy-efficient and user-friendly. Further, optimizing its resources and encouraging inclusivity are also some of its key features.
These are some of the best web design trends that are likely to rule the design industry in the coming days. Developers can follow them, while choosing what works best for the brand is also important.
A web design company can ensure your website is aesthetically designed while being user-friendly and easy to navigate. Hubsot claims a nicely designed website can improve your site’s time by 84%. They can help boost the traffic, sales, and SEO rankings of your website.
Stay ahead in the digital landscape! Embrace the future of web design with Ralecon. Elevate your online presence with cutting-edge trends for 2024. Let’s shape the future of your website together.


Back in May 2012, the lovely and talented Andrea Ames asked me if I wanted to see her latest projects. Knowing what a master quilter she is, I said "Yes" with the expectation of seeing some of her amazing quilting designs. This was not to be.
She pulled out a small portfolio-like book and began to show me what appeared to be amazing doodles. She explained to me that these were NOT doodles, but Zentangles. She had been to the Masters class and, in true Andrea-form (Andrea NEVER does anything halfway), she is now teaching this truly remarkable art form.
When I returned to Atlanta after seeing Andrea, I sought out a Zentangle class and am now hooked.
Now, all of you know how goal-driven I am. I preach visioning, goal setting, and having a process to monitor goals. It doesn't matter how you get there, if you don't know where you are going, and all that.
Zentangle is the antithesis of this thinking. It is totally "now" thinking. The "tangle" is created one line at a time in a way that is akin to automatic writing. It is a very meditative (i.e., Zen) process. Often I don't know what the final product is going to be until I'm finished.
Anyone can create Zentangles. You don't have to know how to draw; you just have to push your high school art teacher out of your head. The real beauty in the practice is that there are no mistakes.
I've begun to use Zentangle as a way to wind down at night when it is too early to go to bed, but too late to start another project. It calms the mind and brings order.
If you are interested in checking this out further, go to www.zentangle.com for more information.
Here are a couple of the ones I did during the holidays:


Eastham Public Library
We’ve wanted to visit the Eastham Public Library for a while. The thing is it’s pretty far out on Cape Cod and the last time we tried to visit was a Monday and - sad trombone - the Eastham Library is closed on Mondays. Thankfully, this time we visited on a Tuesday and the library was open for business!
We came down to have some photos taken for a story in the Cape Cod Times (we’ll let you know as soon as it runs!) and to visit a few more outer Cape libraries. We also wanted to see if the Oudens Ello awesome architectural streak would continue. The short answer: oh yeah!
When you visit, you’ll see that the library features weathered clapboard siding in a tip of the hat to so much of the Cape’s architecture. The interior is an amazing space with bold angles, tons of glass and the bright natural light we’ve come to expect from this team of architects. The shapes of the space hearken back to mid-century design, with clean lines and lots of hidden nooks. It makes it a pleasure to walk through and explore.
The ground floor contains most of the library’s collection and programming space. To the left of the entrance is a large community, an art gallery (more on this later), a bookstore, restrooms, etc. To the right is the circulation desk and beyond are the stacks. There are three discrete seating areas, each with comfortable furniture selected by the library staff. One of the areas features a lovely fireplace and all of them look out over Depot Pond.
The pond offers more than a fine view. It also serves as the motif for the children’s section on the lower level. There the carpets are grass green, the walls are sky blue and it makes the room feel almost as though the outdoors are inside. It’s pretty amazing. Also on this lower level is the Eastham Room, which houses the library’s historical collection, and the place we were given for a SharpOrange client conference call. Beyond their work with light, Oudens Ello also excels in acoustic design and this room is no exception: it not only is quiet but it feels quiet.
So, there you have the physical space, totally lovely. We were also able to spend quality time with several staffers (two of whom joined us for the photos with the Cape Cod Times), and they painted a picture of a library that’s really in tune with the needs of its community. For example, back in March, the town was walloped by some severe weather. A lot of residents found themselves without power and - even worse - without connectivity. The library had both and opened its doors to provide warmth, power, WiFi, and a sense of community.
What’s interesting about this experience is how it cemented the library’s place in the heart of the town. When it was time to build this library, the town was behind it, but there were some who were ambivalent to see the original library replaced. When those March storms came and the library opened its doors, everyone came to realize that this place really served as a center for the community. This is something that’s true of many libraries, but it’s often overlooked.
One of the things that we were really impressed by Eastham is the library’s relationship to the artistic community. Lots of libraries have gallery space, but here the space is spoken for well into 2020 - and artists who display and sell their works get 100 percent of the sale price. That’s a pretty generous split!
As it the case for many towns on the Cape, Eastham sees its population ebb and flow over the course of the year. Like other libraries in the area, Eastham manages this - not by changing staff numbers - but by prioritizing activities. The winter months are a time to catch up on projects, while the summer is all about circulation and keeping the computers running for all the people like us who want to work in the library during their summer vacations!
Finally, a word about the staff and the great team of volunteers we met during our visit. They were so friendly and so happy to talk about their library, the sense of community they foster, the programs they offer and run, the works. While we were at the library it was a happy hive of activity with parents and kids, co-workers, quiet readers, and people chit-chatting away. If you are planning a trip to Cape Cod, make a point to visit this fine library, you’ll be glad you did.


When you want to capture your family’s precious milestones, Leanna Slater Photography will make it happen. You can count on me to deliver quality and professional services. Located in Castle Rock, CO, I also serve Sedalia, Castle Pines, Parker, Franktown, Elizabeth, Kiowa, and Monument areas.
MY STYLE ~ well, my style is your style. My goal is to sit with you prior to your session, understand your expectations, find out what is important to you, and base our session from that experience. I aspire to capture the personal moments in people’s lives that portray a genuine appearance through natural lighting and expressive movement. I find beauty in the most simple, unposed, and natural moments that capture the expressions of love and life.
I understand each client has different needs, that’s why I am more than willing to serve your unique requests. If you are searching for something that is not on my Investment page, just ask! I’ll be more than happy to help…
...and please ask me about my REFERRAL program, it's a great way to add more memories to your selection.
Honoring our Veterans, First Responders and Teachers
ALL TEACHERS, FIRST RESPONDERS and U.S. MILITARY SERVICE MEN and WOMEN (individual must participate in the shoot), RECEIVE A 25% DISCOUNT ON ALL DIGITAL COLLECTIONS...WITH AN OPTION TO USE THE DISCOUNT $$ TOWARDS ADDITIONAL DIGITAL PHOTOS.
So far this year, I have enjoyed volunteering as the "TEAM PHOTOGRAPHER" for the MS WALK-DENVER at City Park. The day couldn't have been more beautiful as colorful Colorado showcased it's best. I met so many courageous folks, young and old! I honestly do not think my heart has been more full.
Donating to local High Schools...
One of my very favorites things to do is to donate my older equipment to the local high schools. It gives me the "warm and fuzzies" to walk in and go through all the equipment with the teachers. I know they are beyond grateful and that is why I do it.
Words I live by...
"I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver." ~Maya Angelou
"When you learn, TEACH, when you get, GIVE." ~Maya Angelou
"Success is loving life and daring to live it." ~Maya Angelou
"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." ~Maya Angelou


When Second Reformed Church constructed its current building on Stadium Drive, the congregation chose a contemporary style stained-glass window design to match the modern architecture of the new church facility. The artistry and infusion of color that is the hallmark of the more traditional stained-glass church windows is eminently present in the beauty of our modern-style windows. Their kaleidoscopic colors provide a stunning backdrop to our sanctuary setting that enhances the reverence and peace of our praise and worship services. Designed by award-winning artist, Karel C. Dupre, a native of Veerle, Belgium, our sanctuary windows consist of five floor-to-ceiling windows, and one ceiling-mounted window.
Stained-glass windows always tell a story, and our windows are no exception. Here is the design explanation provided by the Willet Stained Glass Studios, Inc. of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania who fabricated the windows for us . . .
“The overall theme of the windows is light. God is the light of the world. The five side windows have been conceived as a whole, i. e., certain lines and shapes extend through more than one window. However, each window has its own sub theme. The pale hues enabling a great deal of daylight to enter and reflected color to reverberate underscores the overall theme.
Creation Window: The three primary colors, red, yellow and blue combine at the top of the window and contract into a white circle, which symbolizes the Creator who is the source of light. The beam from the source of light makes the earth visible as it is being created. A smaller white beam reaches up from the Creator and causes light on the stars.
Covenant Window: A rainbow stretches from the Creation Window into this one. When God made a covenant with Noah after the flood, he set a rainbow in the sky for a sign. Rising up from the end of the rainbow is the pillar of fire and cloud that guided the Israelites through the wilderness toward the Promised Land. Towering up in the center of the window, amid thunder and lightning, is Mt. Sinai. The light is on the top of the mountain and it represents the presence of the Lord coming from above in a beam of white light.
Redemption Window: At the center of the bank of five windows is Christ, the Light of the World. This figure is the least non-objective, the most recognizable form in all the windows. His halo shines with golden light, which extends downward toward a more abstract human figure. The gold turning red as it descends recalls that man is saved by the blood of Christ. His hands are extended in benediction over the human form, which kneels within a chalice as a symbol of purification drawn from Christ.
Church Window: In the upper part of the window is an unborn child. The child, before birth, walks in the dark. After birth, it will be baptized, made a member, in Christ, of the church. The child, as it grows, will then radiate his light among other people by doing good (helping hands), being just (scales), and charitable (heart), all at the bottom of the window. This propagation of conviction within a community is the Church, which is traditionally symbolized by a boat. Its sail circumnavigates the womb with the child as a continuous action of the Church. At the top of the window is the star (Christ) by which the ship is steered.
Eternal Life Window: This window is derived from the Book of Revelation. The golden temple rises all along the right side. Precious stones are incorporated into its foundation. It is the glory of God that provides all light for the Holy City. The plaques, an angular red shape, are collected together. There are two books in the window. In the middle is the golden book, the Book of Life, where the names of the blessed are inscribed. At the bottom, in purple, is an empty book cover containing the snake, which symbolizes the list of those not entered in the golden book.
This collection of windows is located on the north wall of the sanctuary. While a picture is worth a thousand words, the best "picture" is to see these windows in their actual setting.
Join us for Sunday Worship and let the Holy Spirit empower you for the week ahead! For information about our Sunday Worship, click on the green button below.
The Holy Spirit Window (Ceiling Window): Because of the distance of the viewer from the window on the exterior, and because no one will see the window while seated in the congregation, a single symbol of larger scale is used. The window is colored more heavily in order to get a ply of colored light on the wall. The Holy Spirit is represented by a dove in a swirl of fiery tongues. Seven candlesticks represent the seven churches mentioned in Revelation."
This window is actually best seen at night. You can see it lit up as you travel east on Stadium Drive or when you pull into our parking area for an evening service.
For worship times and office hours, click on the green button below.
Photos courtesy of Willet Hauser Architectural Glass, Inc./Associated Crafts.


In August, German epic metal heroes EQUILIBRIUM will unleash their pagan fury once again – on their very first EP to date.
Produced by guitarist René Berthiaume in Helion Studios and mixed and mastered by the Resetti Brothers – namely Joerg Umbreit and Vincent Sorg – in their Principal Studios, »Waldschrein« encompasses the brand-new title track and an acoustic version of the same song plus a re-recorded and extended version of `Der Sturm´ from »Turis Fratyr« (originally sung by ex-vocalist Helge Stange, now by front man Robse Dahn). Moreover, it contains `Zwergenhammer´- a previously unreleased older song – as well as an amazing cover version of famous video game “Skyrim”’s opening theme.
The band commented:
“We’re really looking forward to release this EP, because we all have to wait until next year for our next full-length album to be released. This makes it the perfect chance to release some songs and recordings that didn’t make it on any regular album because they are so exclusive. The best thing yet is that with “Waldschrein” we can provide the fans with a little foretaste for what expects them in 2014!”
02. Der Sturm
05. Waldschrein (acoustic version)
Equip yourselves with plenty of ice-cold wheat beer, for »Waldschrein« is gonna bring you one hell of a hot summer!
„Waldschrein“ will be released August 16th via Nuclear Blast.


Cleveland troubadour, teacher, songwriter with The Liars Revival and host of NEORocks on WJCU 88.7 f.m. every Monday 8-10 pm and Saturday 7-9 pm
CLE Uncorked: Voices and Vines on Lee
CLE Uncorked: Voices and Vines on Lee is a performance event hosted by Jason Patrick Meyers at CLE Urban Winery in Cleveland Heights every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month. Magicians, poets, musicians, comedians and performers may email email@example.com to request a performance spot.
Celebrate Arts Education: 20 Years of ROAM
Join us for a rockin’ good time at one of Cleveland’s most premier music venues.
This rousing evening of live music will feature some of the most exciting musicians in the Cleveland music scene – who just also happen to be ROAM teaching artists – performing roots, blues, rock, and folk.
The evening will also feature a special tribute to 10 years of ROAM’s Stop the Hate: Youth Sing Out program in partnership with the Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage.
Featured musical artists: Diana Chittester Ray Flanagan Sam Hooper Jason Patrick Meyers Jack Mizenko & Mark Ronan Afi Scruggs Alisha Stahnke
6:30 pm: Reception for Sponsors and VIP Ticket Holders 7:30 pm: Doors open for General Admission Ticket Holders 8:00 pm: Concert
Sponsorships: Starting at $500 (Includes concert tickets, heavy hors d’oeuvres, drinks, valet parking, and recognition opportunities).
VIP Tickets: $100 (Includes concert ticket, heavy hors d’oeuvres, drinks, and valet parking).
General Admission Tickets: $25 (Includes concert ticket).
Purchase tickets online at www.rootsofamericanmusic.org or by phone at 216-321-9350.


Armando Iannucci’s film The Death of Stalin (2017) seemed to me to come out of nowhere, though it’s based on a French comic strip that most of its British viewers will never have heard of before. We knew from the BBC series The Thick of It that Iannucci was interested in politics and in satirizing its machinations and fixers, but from Malcolm Tucker to Joseph Stalin remains an unexpected escalation. The film takes place over a couple of days in 1953: Stalin dies of a sudden seizure at his dacha or mansion in the pines, and the Central Committee of lieutenants and ministers manoeuvre to replace him or settle scores, while arranging and attending Stalin’s funeral and placating his dipsomaniac son and eccentric daughter. The theme is one of the more evidently serious that history has to offer, but the film plays it as black farce. Perhaps there aren’t so many outright laugh-out-loud punchlines, but the tone is that frenetic one in which citizens are arrested, prisoners shot, lists of traitors concocted and dispatched with such brisk casualness that the viewer seems primed to laugh at the outrageousness as much as being appalled by it. In one throwaway moment, we watch from the back of a truck departing Stalin’s estate as two officers order its departure; a second later, one of them draws his gun and shoots the other in the head, as they recede down the country road.
The death of Stalin doesn’t seem the obvious point to consider him, compared to the rise of Stalin, the Nazi-Soviet Pact or the Second World War. That’s another example of the film’s obliquity. But it makes sense in that removing Stalin from the scene helps us see the scene. A coarse and casual Stalin is actually in the film longer than I expected, and even briefly revives from his seizure before finally dying off screen; but I found myself wanting him out of the way to see the structure and people around him operating in their own right. The death of Stalin might be a good time to watch Stalinism. The factions that emerge are not merely indistinguishable bids for power. One of the film’s successes is to make its leading characters so distinct – perhaps a necessity, for an Anglophone audience hazy on the personalities of Soviet officials of the 1950s. It achieves this partly by letting everyone talk in an English or American accent: at once an estrangement effect (how can the future leader of the USSR sound like he’s from Brooklyn?), an evasion of the solemnity that would dull the satire, and a way to produce vividly recognizable distinctions of accent and manner among figures who might, more realistically presented, be inscrutable to us. Jeffrey’s Georgy Malenkov is Stalin’s deputy and immediate successor, but it’s hard to tell how this lugubrious, faltering figure has risen so high. Steve Buscemi is a wry, fast-talking Nikita Krushchev, whom most of us will recall eventually somehow did make it to the top. Simon Russell Beale’s Lavrenti Beria, head of the secret police, is the master of surveillance, executions and abuse, the film’s focus of malignancy – perhaps even to the point of providing the rest with an alibi, or making them look harmless by contrast. Michael Palin brings something of his innocent persona to, of all people, Soviet Foreign Minister Vyacheslav Molotov: the character’s key contribution is to exemplify the way many of Stalin’s victims would continue to revere him or to castigate themselves for failing to follow the party line. Ordinary Russians, too, are shown trooping into the hall to pay tribute to Stalin’s corpse, their devotion seemingly more straightforward than that of most of Stalin’s ministers. It is striking when the mourners arriving from trains around the country march on the security forces forbidding them entry. Bearing red flags, the earnest and humble crowds trigger the sympathy due to virtuous revolutionaries, as they might have done in an Eisenstein film – but the signals are dangerously crossed here, in a way that troubles such instincts: these crowds, we have to remember, are here to salute Stalin, whose dire legacy the film has already sketched.
The film’s most vivid character, Field Marshal Zhukov (Jason Isaacs), remarkably doesn’t enter till more than halfway through. He fearlessly shoulders his way through the manoeuvring politicians and agrees to assist in removing Beria from power. Beria has already emerged as so terrible a figure that Zhukov’s action makes him heroic by default – on top of his existing proud self-designation as the war hero who crushed the Wehrmacht. An effect of the story is that strong moral distinctions emerge among a set of characters who by most standards would all be brutal. As a viewer I could feel myself pinning my hopes and values on Krushchev and Zhukov, even though in reality both of them were products of a totalitarian system and would be fearsomely alien to us now. It’s partly the way the film presents them: Buscemi’s familiar likeable whine and gabble, Isaacs’ cultivation of jovial Yorkshire bluntness. It may also say something more generic about the needs of a viewer: wanting a point of identification, holding out for a hero, even in the bleakest scenario.
A work like this typically gets reviewers seeking its topical references. A quick search online immediately shows the Rotten Tomatoes summary emphasizing ‘painfully timely parallels’. We often want such stories to tell us something that’s specifically relevant now. But I’m not sure this one does. Theresa May’s Brexit Britain? Hardly: the contrast between The Death of Stalin and the Thick of It era reminds us that this particular kind of ‘cult of personality’ is unavailable now. People couldn’t create memes mocking Stalin and get away with it. Vladimir Putin’s government? Maybe, but that seems a long-standing Russian issue rather than anything very new. Donald Trump’s White House? Perhaps in the very generalized sense that this male-dominated film depicts a pathology of power, with men jostling around their corrupt and wheezing boss. Actually the film speaks a little more directly to a news theme of the last few weeks, the abuse of male power in Hollywood and elsewhere, as one of its most horrible elements is the suggestion that casual sexual abuse is mixed up in state repression.
And yet what I found more appealing about the film was its untopical character; the sense that the world depicted was not so much a ready parallel to ours as mercifully distant from it, and that Iannucci and company had approached Stalinism not because it says something particular to our times but, as many historians might do, because it is grimly fascinating in its own right. It was only as the credits were rolling that I remembered something that may have been obvious to every other viewer from the start: that the film is topical in the most elementary way, arriving as it does one hundred years after the Russian Revolution. This is one provocative way to mark that centenary.


Book Three in the Riverside Blues Series Features Sonny Boy Nelson, Mississippi Matilda, and their playing partners.
Work is now underway on Book Three — America’s Unbeatable Musicians: The Original Masters of the Mississippi Riverside Blues.
This third installment is slated for publication in the fall of 2019 and includes additional insights into the life of Mississippi Matilda, Sonny Boy Nelson, and their playing partners, including Richard Hill, Robert Nighthawk, Bo Carter Chatmon, Sam Chatmon, Harry Chatmon, the Mississippi Sheiks, Richard “Hacksaw” Harney, Willie Brother Harris, Ernest 44 Johnson, Little Brother Montgomery, and many more.
The writing and publishing of these books involves interviews, conversations and recollections from children, friends and fans to ensure true first hand accounts.
It takes readers back in time to turn-of-the-century culture — WWI, the Roaring Twenties, the Great Flood of 1927, the Tupelo tornado, the Great Depression, WWII, Civil Rights, the Blues Resurgence and the golden years of several iconic musicians.COMING SOON
The Complete Series
Eugene Powell, a.k.a. Sonny Boy Nelson, was quite a character.
We captured his traveling adventures, his role as a husband and father, and his friendships with other notable musicians in Book One — a biography completed twenty years after his death titled The Original Rolling Stone: The Travelin’ Riverside Blues of Eugene Powell.
This is the first biography ever published about Eugene Powell a.k.a. “Sonny Boy Nelson” and is filled with insights, both professional and personal. Rare photographs, never-before-shared interviews, and dramatic adventures fill the pages.COMING SOON
The rich and raw details of Eugene’s biography inspired Book Two in the Riverside Blues Series, a biography of his wife Matilda. Her biography has never before been written — this is a milestone in blues history. Culturally and musically, Matilda’s story adds a dimension to the phrase Strong black woman.”
Hard Working Woman: The Life and Legend of Mississippi Matilda leads readers along Matilda’s rocky path through childhood abandonment and abuse, to her successful career as a songstress, and into the cotton fields in which she labored and raised her beloved children.
This inspirational wife and mother, married Eugene Powell until the early 1950s, was determined to keep a roof over their heads, despite a host of health concerns. She was bolstered by her strong Christian faith and the love of her family.COMING SOON
Help Us Preserve the Heritage of the Blues and Iconic Artists like Sonny Boy Nelson, Mississippi Matilda, and their Contemporaries
If you have a musical ancestor or know of a blues icon who contributed to the blues genre, please feel free to contact us. We consider the photos, records, music, instruments, documents and narratives of original blues artists for possible inclusion in future projects. Contributions by families, fans, historians and researchers can often help preserve the fast-fading history of the blues. You might also have supplemental stories about Sonny Boy Nelson or Mississippi Matilda — feel free to share those as well!
Email email@example.com for more information.


With great ease and knowledge, Alyssa Levitan is able to bring out the artist in both children and adults. My three children and I have been Alyssa’s students for almost a year and every class we are amazed at what we can accomplish in a very short period of time.
Alyssa Levitan has all the characteristics of a great art teacher: passion and knowledge, creativity and leadership, imagination and technique
Every class with Alyssa is a journey into art history, self-expression and discovery of one’s natural ability to create beauty
Alyssa brought very valuable lessons to the elementary schools – she incorporated art history, creativity and the opportunity to take risks into her lessons.
The students were able to explore new skills and new ideas and many first developed their passion for art in Alyssa’s classes.
She was always good at directing the students with some lesson instructions and new ideas presented at each class and then let the students follow their own ideas.
My son has participated in art classes with Alyssa both at school and through her after school program for over two years. I am continually impressed at the diversity of her curriculum and the quality of projects that my son brings home. Alyssa is a true artist and teacher who is passionate about her work. My energetic son always comes home from her class with a big smile and a piece of art that is more than refrigerator worthy!
Alyssa creates dynamite lessons that are leveled for all learners – if a
student struggles with auditory processing (following verbal directions),
she will write a step-by-step list, if a student struggles with fine motor
skills, she will use tools to help them, and if a student is afraid to
try, she will always coach them through the assignment, at their pace of
comfort. She always arrives prepared and happy to teach, no matter the
skill level of a learners. Her patience and kindness is admirable.
For the past few years, my children have benefited from having Alyssa
Levitan as their Spectra Art Teacher. I have worked in the classroom
over the past 5 years and assisted countless Spectra Art classes and
have seen many different art teachers at work. I am struck by
Alyssa’s unique style with children. She doesn’t speak down to
children and assumes every child is capable and creative.
Subsequently, every child believes him/herself to be an artist. That
is a rare skill that Alyssa has and a real gift she gives to each
student. She has a calm presence and teaches the kids how to be
comfortable making mistakes. When a child panics or feels they’ve
“made a mistake”, she coaches them on how to turn around their
“mistake” into something beautiful. It’s a great life lesson she is
giving each artist. I feel grateful that my own three kids have
Alyssa as their art teacher.


She has no heart, no idea of harm or benefit.
She is the most powerful, the most destructive force on Earth. Tsunamis, hurricanes, earthquakes and volcanos are, for her, nothing new, merely further violence in an endless drama.
But also she is Earth’s consummate artist. From the evanescence of sunlit dew on a spider’s web to the awesome cathedrals of Denali and Everest, from the hundred hues and textures of spring unfolding across open land to the deep but fleeting stare of a lone wolf, she gives us transcendent beauty in uncountable ways, each with the touch of a goddess.
We call her Mother Nature. She remains forever savage and inspiring, fearsome and delightful. But is there a message in her madness, in her duality? Certainly it challenges us to pay attention, to see, and to consider. We never know what is next, what she will provide or deny. Yet how can we best absorb her beauty, be inspired by her finer moments? How can we best minimize the harm of her worst of times?
Is this discovery, in fact, a job for each of us as individuals? Or one for our leaders and our governments? Or our religions? Or our artists? And how does it inform our random acts and our greatest sacrifices? Will we consume our one blink of life with small thinking, as Father Time watches, as bloodless as his mate? Or will we yet find in the fresh, necessary breezes of our shared humanity that we are, indeed, one world, one community, and we must do a much keener job of looking out for each other, undeterred by whatever Mother Nature might throw at us next.
– Tony Balis (November 2005)


Can I get a refund?
Because our products are bespoke they cannot be refunded. If however, you decide to cancel the order before our artists commence work, you will get a full refund.
What if I don’t like the work done?
Art is subjective and with that we try our best to ensure that customers are happy with their end product. In the unlikely event that a customer is unhappy with the product, we look at issues on a case by case basis.
Can you send me a printed version?
Currently we do not have the capacity to print completed artwork at this time.
What happens to the images I send you?
As part of our terms and conditions we are allowed to use them for marketing purposes however we will not publish every image sent to us. The images are stored in a secure location on our servers and are routinely deleted to ensure security.
How long will it take?
Please allow up to 5 days to complete the first draft, this allows our artists enough time and takes into consideration workloads.
Why is there a quantity available?
We have this in place because we do not want to have a backlog of artworks. Our artists work hard to ensure the best quality and this is not able if there is pressure to complete the works quickly. We limit the amount of artwork that our artists are allowed to work on.
Where are you based?
We are based in Suffolk, UK and have artists around the world.
Can I speak to the artists directly?
Unfortunately you can only speak with a representative. Our artists, as lovely as they are, are there to create the works not admin 🙂


Fully beveled and polished edges provide clarity, articulation, and smooth string to string transition.
The Zenfire Zero-slip Grip™ is the most aggressive surface available. Yet is still very comfortable to hold.
Hand, wrist, and finger tension is greatly reduced. Grips are easily removable and replaceable.
Ultra unique guitar picks handmade from solid Phosphor Bronze or Pure Hard Brass. Each guitar pick is
handmade without the assistance of powered machinery. Every pick truly speaks for itself in functionality, tone
"After 40 years of playing guitar I have not found another pick that works as well, feels as great, lasts as long,
and keeps me as eager to practice and play as the very picks I created for myself."
"I have been handcrafting these very picks for myself and close friends for over 30 years, and now I'm proud to
offer to you, what I feel is the most functional, toneful, and playable pick available. At any price.
-David C. Woods, Creator of Zenfire Picks


Turning visions into reality
Stationery Designer in Tomball, TX
Welcome To J.Lorriane
J.Lorriane is a bespoke design studio, specializing in stationery design for weddings and intimate events. My desire is to design a piece of art that brings your vision to reality and touches the hearts of your loved ones.
“Create the highest, grandest vision possible for your life, because you become what you believe.”
My name is Jarica Edwards, and I'm the owner of J. Lorriane & Company. I live in a small town, Tomball, Texas that's packed with vintage charm and history.
I fell in love with stationery during high school when my teacher introduced me to the endless possibilities of art and the joy it brings. Since then, I've had a passion to design beautiful pieces of art for others that embrace their story.
I love working with individualistic couples to create unique paper goods for their wedding day or special event.
WHAT I'M KNOWN FOR:
Lover of all the things Tiffany blue, being in front of the T.V. on Sundays cheering on the Texans, rooting on the Rockets, bringing awareness to Sickle Cell, being naturally me and enjoying moments with family and friends, wearing sneakers, and admiring art. Let's not forget mother to the most beautiful little girl.
"It was so perfect."
My invitation was so perfect for my baby shower I recommend anyone who is looking for some one to have there invitation done by J. Lorriane!
LET'S BE INSTA-FRIENDS
Stationery designer following my passion for all forms of art. Join me on my journey to turn your vision into reality!


THE JOY OF COLOURS.
BMW AT ART BASEL HONG KONG.
As the Official Automobile Partner of this celebrated art fair, BMW Hong Kong is proud to present the iconic #01 BMW Art Car, designed by world-renowned artist Alexander Calder. As an artist who was used to devising his own space and shape, Calder expressed his aspirations through ‘flying colours’ – an iconic design element unique to Calder. Discover how the colours are gracefully distributed across the wings, bonnet and roof on BMW Art Car #01.
This year, we are proud to present THE JOY OF COLOURS - from now till 31st March, upon purchase of selected BMW best-selling models, can enjoy complimentary first-month installment of BMW Circle^ to share the love for cars with other BMW lovers!


Meet our team of creative designers and digital strategists.
For over ten years we’ve combined creative ideas with innovative strategies to help our clients achieve their business goals. Our satisfaction and success comes from seeing the fruits of our imagination make something happen, which invariably makes for a happy client.
Our collective experience could not be more varied. Some of our clients think of us as online specialists, for others we create beautiful brochures. Some simply see us as the design agency that delivers. So what unites our work? Put simply, we reckon it’s us. With an eclectic blend of passions and personalities, we’re individuals who work creatively together.
Got a fantastic design challenge for us? Need a sounding board for your next project? Don’t hesitate to get in touch, we’d love to hear from you.


What are we looking for in your submissions?
Stories that suit the contemporary picture book format aimed at young readers aged 3 years plus. They should also:
Have a strong distinctive voice
Feature a memorable, authentic-feeling Black or mixed-Black main character
Be written in either rhyme or prose
Be uplifting and light-hearted, humorous or thought-provoking
Feel original and relevant to 21st-century children
Not have historical, distressing or overtly anti-racist themes
Have a strong narrative arc, ie be well-structured with a clear beginning and satisfying ending
Be age-range appropriate, eg must not be first-word or look-'n'-feel books aimed at babies, toddlers and preschoolers
We live in a multi-ethnic society, so it's perfectly acceptable to include a diverse cast if your story demands it. But Black protagonists must drive the story. They may be heroes, problem-solvers, adventurers or everyday children who are caring, playful, brave, intelligent, tenacious, energetic or witty.
They mustn't feel like white characters with brown faces: they need to be rooted in the story with a clear background that reflects their unique cultural/ethnic experiences, ie believable Black characters being themselves. And when using cultural/ethnic references, they must be non-stereotypical and naturally integrated.
Can't I just tell you my main character is Black using illustration briefs?
We don't want you to rely on illustration briefs to tell us your main character is Black. We are challenging you to weave this knowledge naturally into your text so we get a sense of your three-dimensional character.
Picture book submissions can be rhyming stories or prose. For more guidance on writing a picture book, check out these brilliant blogs: Picturebooks - from idea to submission by Oliver Hope and The Purple Crayon by Harold Underdown. Make sure you also book onto our summer workshops.
What are we not looking for?
We do not want stories with animal main characters or heavily referencing Black pain or suffering. And we're not looking for non-narrative poetry, non-fiction, historical fiction or any chapter books.
The clue is in the name 'picture books'. We don't want lengthy passages of text on each page. And, just because the word limit is 700 words that doesn't mean you need all 700 words to tell your story. Only use the precise number of words required to say what you want to say really well. Your text should be pared back to suit the contemporary picture book format, leaving space for the illustrations to evoke a mood, contradict your text or add layers of meaning. If you are unsure where to start, we recommend attending our picture book workshops.
As a Black writer, why do I need to write a story with a Black main character for this competition?
Research shows the percentage of children's books featuring Black main characters doesn't reflect the current number of Black-British children in primary school. We need more stories to redress this imbalance, and we'd like to give Black-British writers first dibs at creating these texts for this prize.
Of course, as a writer, you should feel free to portray whatever characters you like. We don't believe writers of any ethnicity should be pigeon-holed. Please only submit your work if you have a strong desire to tell a story with a Black character in the starring role.
How much text should I write?
The number of pages in picture books can vary depending on the page size, layout and quantity of illustrations in the final published book, so it's easier to think in terms of word count:
No more than 700 words for a picture book aimed at 3 years plus. (Between 350-700 words is ideal.)
Plan for an average of around 30 words per page as a very rough guide (no. of words per page can vary — variety is good). If you are regularly exceeding 30 words per page then your script may start to feel too long for the picture book format. Do this page-planning in your head or perhaps use a 12-page-spread planner. You do not need to add page breaks into your actual manuscript. (See our Five-Day Formatting Fix videos for more info.)
Why does the Jericho Prize have a Black focus?
We believe there should be more quality, contemporary children's books featuring authentic Black main characters, written by Black-British authors. The Jericho Prize aims to make this happen by encouraging Black-British writers to share their stories from the category we've identified.
We recognise that unpublished/self-published Black-British writers need a prize just for them, that offers a space to craft and showcase their stories to the world. Black-British authors are already underrepresented and the Jericho Prize directly addresses this issue in a way that a generic prize for all writers of colour may not.
Black-British children need to see themselves reflected realistically in books. Reading more texts by Black-British authors may inspire children to write and, hopefully, become future Jericho Prize winners.
Why is the Jericho Prize not available to all writers of colour?
If we opened the competition to all writers of colour, take-up from certain Black-British communities might still be low. We want all Black-British children's writers to feel welcomed and inspired. If you are not a Black writer, check out the FAB Prize which is open to all writers and illustrators of colour.
Can I enter self-published work?
Yes. We welcome self-published titles produced from January 2019 onwards, but please send text-only versions of your book with all illustrations stripped out. If you submit your manuscript with illustrations, your entry will be ineligble.
Who will read my manuscript?
Your manuscript will be read by experienced children's authors, librarians, editors, publishing or English literature MA/Phd students and school teachers including members of the Black community. They will select a longlist to be scrutinised by Fabia Turner, our prize founder. A shortlist will then be created by a smaller team of highly experienced readers. Our expert panel of judges from across the book industry will anonymously select the winner.


KIM: I have arrived in Ljubljana and it's a very clean and atmospheric city. I am staying in an old apartment in the center of town and can hear the church bells from the town square ringing every hour. The Ljubljanica River passes through the center of town, much like the Seine through Paris. There are sidewalk cafes everywhere and the streets are cobblestones. Everything is within a 10 minute walk, so it is a perfect city for being on foot. On the other side of the river, easily accessible by several car and foot bridges, is a high hill, topped by an old castle. The oldest part of town is at the foot of this hill and seems to date from about the 13th century, when the Hapsburgs took over the Roman settlement here. There are art and music events going on all the time, and I am having no trouble staying entertained!
My mission, though, is to find Brencics, and with the help of two local tourist guides, Dragan Bekcic and Max Gale, today I was able to visit Joze and Valentina Brencic of Podlipa, a small town between Planina and Ljubljana. Max accompanied me and translated for the group. Joze has done extensive genealogical research back to the turn of the 18th century and has uncovered several branches of the Brencic family. He believes his line and ours are connected, even though the dates we have do not match exactly. We have agreed to share new findings as they are uncovered. Joze and Valentina have also invited me to stay with them the next time I visit so they can show me all of the historic sites of the Brencics and the country!
After our visit, Joze took me in his car for a short drive up the Podlipa valley to show me how beautiful it is, and I must agree that it is spectacular. We visited the site of his ancestral home once stood, and we visited with Anton Brencic, a neighbor farmer and relative. We also ascended the ridge above Podlipa to get a birds-eye view of the little valley town and then visited a more modern, but still old, house in the alpine style of the original buildings of the valley.
FYI - “pod” means “under” and “lipa” is the name for the linden tree, which is a national symbol of community in Slovenia. The lipa has a serrated heart-shaped leaf and can be found as a graphic symbol and in town and place names all over the country. So Podlipa means “town under the linden tree”. Nice! Friday is a sightseeing, shopping and photography day in Ljubljana and then Saturday morning I am off by train to meet Anastasia and Shelley in Zagreb.


Hello and welcome to Pat Ward Photography.
I'm glad you like the images you see and are motivated to reach out to talk about creating some of your own.
Allow me to bring my experience, expertise, and energy to your photo session. I would love to work with you to create a lasting legacy that will be treasured not only today, but for generations to come.
Decorate your home with the faces of those you cherish most.
Commemorate a special milestone or document your life at this point in time "just because". Whatever the motivation, together we'll create images that you will be proud to show the world, and we'll have a little fun doing it


Breathing Space Statement Print
Captured from The Pass in the late afternoon, a surfer waits out the next set.
Using 180gsm paper, our poster prints are the budget-friendly solution to photographic wall art. This smooth, matte paper stock produces bright images with cool whites.
Fine Art Prints
Printed on 310gsm cotton-rag paper using archival inks, this paper stock will stand the test of time as a statement piece. Our fine art paper has a smooth matte finish resulting in high detail, vibrant colours and a warm tone.
All prints are carefully rolled in acid-free tissue paper and shipped in a mailing tube. Each item in this collection is printed to order. Please allow 7 business days for prints to be dispatched. See our shipping page for more information.
Our frames are made from raw Tasmanian oak, adding beautiful natural texture to your prints. You can view the exact specifications as well as self-framing recommendations here.
If you would prefer to use a window mat in your frame please request ‘no border’ in the 'note to seller' section of your shopping cart. Read more about border sizes in our FAQs.