#lots of good panels and we avoided the show floor on saturday

[thecousinsdangereux]

Sometimes the simplest cosplays are the most fun.

[athena-athena]

I Met Michael Rooker!

So I copied all of the Rooker bits from my blog to share here on tumblr.  If y’all just want to read about the rest of my weekend, just let me know and I’ll share my blog link.  :)

Fair warning, this is SUPER long because I typed it up for myself, and I didn’t want to forget ANYTHING.  Also, I fangirl a lot.  

Around 10:15 on Saturday, I decided to start trying to find the room for Rooker’s panel.  It took a few minutes, and I ended up having to ask someone at the info desk (which also came in handy all weekend), and the rooms were downstairs, which explained why I couldn’t find them.  So I walked downstairs and found the room, confirmed his panel time on the sign, and then found a seat next to the door, where I proceeded to try to calm down and cool off as I texted Beth.

Once Bonnie Wright’s panel ended and the room cleared out, I headed into the room and managed to snag a seat in the 4th row!  I could have gotten closer, but that would have required sitting on the end seat, and Rooker is notorious for going out into the audience with his microphone, and I was not prepared to be put on the spot by him, so I thought the middle of the 4th row was a safe place.  XD  Of course, it didn’t matter, because Rooker didn’t stay on the stage long at all before he hopped out into the audience.  I swear he never stands still.  

Anyway, after I got to my seat, I counted down the minutes with Beth, and by the time it got down to about three minutes, I was DYING, because I KNEW he was SOMEWHERE IN THE VICINITY.  I almost cried, y’all, and I hadn’t even seen him yet.  

A few minutes after 11:00, the moderator walked out, and I was internally screaming.  The little path from the backstage area was blocked by a sheer black curtain, but you could still see movement if you were actually looking, and I could see the moment Rooker ran from backstage to go up to the stage and I was already smiling like an IDIOT before he even got to the stage.  

Like, I can’t even describe it, y’all.  It was just INCREDIBLE and MIND-BLOWING to be in the same room as Michael Rooker, and I think I smiled the entire time. He is SO HILARIOUS and his panel had such a chaotic energy, but it was amazing and I laughed so much.  It flew by, and before I knew it, it was over. *cries*

I’m going to TRY to remember some highlights from the panel.  I saw several people filming throughout, so I hope someone recorded the whole thing and posts it online because I know I’ve forgotten a lot of it, even though I tried to remember it.  

He never even sat down at the table when he got to the stage.  The moderator had already gone over the “ground rules” of the panel and explained where to line up to ask questions, and then he introduced Rooker, who immediately ran to the table and began dismantling it so he could get the microphone out, as he yelled, “No ground rules!”  Once he finally got the microphone loose from the table, he realized he still needed a cordless one because the other was wired, and anyone who’s ever seen Rooker in action knows that won’t work.  XD

So someone from the back ran out and gave him a cordless microphone and he was happy.  He did a little back and forth banter with the moderator, and then he said “jiggly butt” about ten times, just so the interpreter would have to do the sign for “jiggly butt.” XD  He was so fascinated by it.  And then he talked about how different interpreters do the jiggly butt sign differently.  Lol  

He then made the moderator help him move the table out of the way.  XD

I’m trying to remember what all he talked about, but I’ll never remember everything. I know he mentioned Starbucks, because he had some with him, and he said, “Y’all know those Starbucks scones?  I don’t want to talk bad about Starbucks, but I almost choked to death on one of the scones this morning.  It was like eating sawdust.  Y’all know how a dog sounds when it’s choking?  That’s what I sounded like.” And then he gave a demonstration.  XD

He also took his jacket off, which I’m pretty sure is intentional now because he enjoys the ladies yelling at him, but after he took it off, he remembered his shirt, so then he had to tell the story of how he shrunk his t-shirt in the washing machine at the hotel the previous night.  LOL  And y’all, that white t-shirt was so short and so clingy, and I almost fainted. He flexed his arms at one point and it was glorious, and then he lifted his shirt to show how short it was, and we got a glimpse of Rooker tum, and THEN he lifted it even higher, and I melted out of my chair into a puddle on the floor.  

He said he didn’t even realize he’d shrunk his shirt until he got to the con that morning, and then it was too late to worry about it. And then he said, “Oh, that reminds me!  Is that nice family I met on the elevator this morning here?  They said they would come.  Did y’all make it to my panel?”

AND THEY WEREN’T THERE, and he muttered, “Assholes.”  XD

Oh, and after he talked about shrinking his shirt, he was like, “If I bend over, I’d probably...” and he bent over to demonstrate. “Yeah, I’d just show my...” and he hesitated like he didn’t want to be risque, so I think he ended up settling on “back.”  XD

The poor moderator tried his best at the beginning to keep Rooker in line, but it was pointless and he knew it, so he finally let him go. Rooker finally remembered there was a moderator, and he was like, “So what are we doing?”

And the moderator was like, “Whatever you want to do.”

And Rooker said, “A good moderator would be able to keep me in line. Sit down.”

And the moderator made a move to sit, then hesitated, and Rooker was like, “I said sit down.” So the guy did, and then Rooker was like, “That’s how you do it.”  XD

So the guy stayed in the chair until Rooker asked for help to get his jacket back on. XD  And the moderator thought he meant for the interpreter to help him, and then finally realized he meant him when Rooker was like, “Get over here!”  And the moderator was like, “I was just following your last order!”  

He was in over his head with Rooker, but he played off of him very well, so it worked.  After all of that, Rooker suddenly remembered he didn’t even know the mod’s name.  XD   I think the guy said it was Danny, so Rooker was like, “Nice to meet you, Danny.”  lol

Then he pretty much laid down on the stage floor so he could hop off the stage, and the mod was just baffled as he watched.  It was hilarious.  Once Rooker was off the stage, there was literally no stopping him, so the mod sat down and let him go.  XD

I couldn’t see him half the time because he spent a lot of time in the back of the room answering questions as he walked around, but listening to him talk was enough.  He is just so, so funny.  And people ask some of the dumbest questions, I swear, and he managed to avoid answering about half of the questions asked.  Lol

Someone asked if he was going to do the Area 51 thing, and he was like, “Are you crazy?  That’s a good way to get yourself killed.” And then he said, “What if the people there aren’t really people?  What if they’ve already been taken over by the aliens?  I can pitch that.”  So if Rooker ever does a movie about the people at Area 51 already being aliens, I’ll be able to say I was there when he came up with the idea.  Haha

Someone asked him about his most physically challenging role, and he said that the filming in Fiji recently was probably one of the hardest because it was so hot and there was no air conditioning.  He said he almost passed out three times the first day of filming.  And then he mentioned that it was for Fantasy Island and that it would be a horror version.  And even though I have a massive aversion to horror movies, I will have to see it.  

Another question was about Cliffhanger and if he was a good climber, and he was like, “Oh yeah, I was really good at it.  My very first day, I was climbing so well.  And then these eleven-year-old kids climbed up past me really fast.”  XD  

He went up to a LOT of people asking if they had questions, even if they didn’t have their hands raised, and I was SO GRATEFUL that I had chosen a seat in the middle of the row. XD  Although I did have a question prepared, thanks to my niece.  Lol  But I still didn’t want to have to worry about it.  

He took his jacket off again at some point and tossed it to the mod, who I realized later actually put it on.  I don’t blame him at all.  If Rooker had handed his jacket to me, I would have put it on, too.  

Someone asked him what his most emotionally challenging role was, and now I can’t remember if he actually answered it or not because he got distracted by someone mentioning Henry, and then he asked if anyone had actually watched it, and after a lot of people yelled ‘yes,’ he was like, “Bunch of sickos.”  XD And then he talked about the filming of that for a little bit, and how one woman was killed in the movie three times.  “And she was the director’s girlfriend!  You’d think she’d have been able to get a better role than being face down in a dirty river.”  lol  

He talked about Yondu a good bit.  Someone asked what it was like to watch his own funeral, and he was like, “I didn’t have to watch it, I was there.”  And it seems like he asked if the funeral scene made people cry when they “saw Yondu lying there snoring, I mean dead.” XD  

And someone else asked if he’d want to be in the MCU again as a different character, and he said something like, “Yeah, maybe.  You never know.  It could happen.”  

What else, what else… I really hope someone posts a video of the whole panel, because I am struggling to remember anything else.  *facepalm*

Eventually the mod got Rooker’s attention and told him there were only five minutes left, so he started running from person to person trying to answer questions.  I think he ended up answering a little longer than that, but then it ended way too soon.  :(

After it was over, I didn’t want to leave because he was still on stage just talking to the mod and the mod’s parents, but I didn’t want to block the other people in my row, so I got up.  Lol

But I had a mission, anyway.  I had to get back to the main floor and get in line TO MEET HIM.  

I headed back to the signing area to find his line, and as I passed the other signing lines, I was like, “Wow, not very many people up here.  This shouldn’t be so bad… oh.  Oh, geez.”  Because Rooker’s line was at the very end of the room, and it was ALREADY packed.  The queue snaked around about six times before it even reached the main line, and then there was an overflow area with like five queue lines, and that’s where I ended up.  His was definitely the most popular line.  Ron Perlman was close to Rooker’s, and he had a lot of people, too, but it still wasn’t even close to Rooker’s.  It was just bananas.  So I stood in line for what felt like a year, and I was equal parts ECSTATIC and TERRIFIED.  

This is the moment when I began to feel thankful for the bag from the artist, because it would have been such a hassle to carry those loose prints around all day.  I had my crossbody purse and a tote with me to carry things, but I wouldn’t have wanted to fold the prints.  I didn’t think a small purse and a tote would have been a big deal to carry around all day, but geez, by the end of the day, my back was so out of alignment.  Lol  I had to do some yoga later to try to help ease it.  

But anyway, standing in line for so long was a blessing and a curse.  A blessing because I was not prepared to stand in front of Rooker and try to form words, and a curse because it was uncomfortable and awkward.  The way the queue was set up, you were always surrounded on both sides by people facing your direction, and there was NOWHERE to look without staring at someone. So thank goodness I was able to text!  

The shirt I wore Saturday was such a big hit.  I’ve never gotten so many compliments about something in my life, and it was bananas.  People would randomly say, “I love your shirt!” as I passed by, and I was really weirded out at first, because I’m not a people person at all, but I eventually got over that.  Haha  But it was DEFINITELY an awesome icebreaker while I was in line.  Eventually the lady in front of me noticed my Wonder Woman print in the bag, and she asked where I’d gotten it, and then we started talking a little bit.  She had her husband and little girl with her, and she pointed at my shirt and then turned to her daughter, “Look at her shirt!”

And the little girl turned around and her eyes got all big.  XD  I was like, “Do you like Yondu?”  And she nodded, and the woman was like, “She loves him! We had to watch the movie last night.”  

I was very grateful to have someone to talk to while I waited in line. It kept me distracted from what was coming, and it helped pass the time, as well as kept me from feeling awkward from being in line alone.  Lol

Eventually, we moved from the overflow area to the queue, and then slowly made our way to the actual line.  When I crossed over to the real line, I almost ran away.  XD  I was SO NERVOUS.   OMG Y’all, I still don’t know how I made myself do it.  When the line moved up and the queue snaked around at one point, I was FOUR FEET AWAY FROM HIM, and it was all I could do to keep myself from staring.  

I pulled out my Yondu Funko Pop at that point, so I would be prepared when I got to the front of the line, and then the woman in front of me said, “Not to be nosy, but how much did you pay for yours?” And I told her, and she turned to her husband and said, “I told you we should have browsed longer!”  He then pulled his out of his bag. XD  They paid a lot more than I did, so I was grateful I was able to find mine “cheap” on eBay a few months ago.  Lol  

Anyway, before I knew it, I was ALMOST TO THE FRONT OF THE LINE, and I was having to repeat my mantra, courtesy of Beth.  XD   “Deep breaths.  You will be okay.  You won’t faint.  You will  be able to talk to him.”  I swear it’s the only thing that got me through the entire weekend.  Haha

When I got to the front table, I bought two tickets because I wanted him to sign my Yondu Pop and also a Yondu picture, and the lady taking money was so nice.  We talked for a minute, and then the line moved and I gave my tickets to Juliette, who was also very nice.  I was trying to pick out which picture to let him sign, and she said, “This is the hardest part because there are so many nice ones to choose from!”  And she was right!  I finally settled on a black and white Yondu one, even though it was hard to pick because I also wanted one where I could see his blue skin.  Haha  But anyway, as I was talking to Juliette, I made the mistake of glancing to my right and saw FREAKING MICHAEL ROOKER TALKING TO MY NEW FRIENDS IN FRONT OF ME.  And I was like, “Oh man, BREATHE, LINDSEY.”  I turned back to Juliette and tried really hard to be nonchalant, like I hadn’t just felt my soul leave my body.  “Is it okay if I give him a gift?”  “Oh yeah, that’s fine!”  

So then I had to just mentally prepare myself, so I stood there and observed the family in front of me while he talked to them.  He was SO SWEET with the little girl.  The mother said the little girl wanted to do the “I’m Mary Poppins, Y’all” quote with him, but she was too shy, so he was like, “Come on, let’s do it!”  So they did, and it was precious.  And then the mother also said something about the little girl liking the “I may be as pretty as an angel” quote, and so he did the “but I sure as hell ain’t one” part, and then he kinda covered his mouth like, “Maybe I shouldn’t have cursed in front of the kid.”  XD But I guess he realized if the kid liked the quote, she’d already heard the word anyway because he kinda shrugged.  Lol  I don’t remember what else he said to her, but I do remember that he asked her if she was wondering why he wasn’t blue, and she nodded.  He leaned across the table, and said, “This is just my human costume I wear when I have to come down to Earth.  My space ship is on the roof.” And the little girl was just in awe.

So I was still trying to get over the adorableness of that when they LEFT and IT WAS MY TURN, and I almost couldn’t make my feet move.  XD  But, somehow I managed it, and then I was STANDING IN FRONT OF MICHAEL ROOKER AND I COULDN’T DEAL WITH IT.  

I strangled out a “hi,” and he was like, “Hi!”  And then he leaned closer and WHISPERED, “I think that little girl believed me!”  And he was SO excited about it.  XD   He turned to Juliette, and told HER that the little girl believed him.  And then he turned back to me, and I was like, “I almost believed it, too, because you’re just that good.”

And he LAUGHED and I DIED for the first time.  And then I randomly blurted out, “I AM SO NERVOUS.”  And he laughed again and was like, “Don’t be nervous!”  BUT I WAS, OMG I COULD BARELY FORM WORDS, IT WAS SO HARD.

So I handed the Yondu Pop and the picture to him, and I swear I can’t remember what he said to me as he started signing the picture.  It was just all a haze.  It happened every time I was around him – everything was a blur, and no matter how hard I tried to remember everything, I just can’t. *facepalm*

OH, I remember what he said when he started to sign the picture!  He was so excited that I got the black and white one.  XD He said, “Oh, man, this is one of my favorites!  I love the black and white!  It really makes the marker stand out.”  And he used a gold sharpie and it’s so pretty!  

And then I told him I flew down from Alabama specifically to meet him, and he was like, “Wow, thank you!”  And then he said more that I’ve forgotten.  It seems like every time we made eye contact, those are the moments when I’ve forgotten what was said.  XD  

But then I pulled the gift I’d gotten him out of my tote, and was like, “I got something for you.”  And let me just state, I hate giving gifts because I really do suck at it, and I always feel anxious about it, because I always worry that the person won’t like it, etc.  So I was SUPER anxious about giving him ANYTHING, but I sucked it up and gave it to him.  I’d gotten him an Alabama football hat, ‘cause, you know, he likes hats and we’re both from Alabama, and I didn’t know what else to get him.  

So anyway, I handed it to him, and he seemed to genuinely like it, which made me feel better about it.  Haha  I was expecting him to set it aside or hand it to Juliette to keep up with it or something.  I was not expecting him to take the tags off of it, and PUT IT ON.  While he was taking the tag off, I was like, “I wasn’t sure what size to get.  I didn’t even realize hats had sizes.”  

And he put it on and said, “This is perfect because I’ve got a small head anyway, so it doesn’t even have to stretch.  I can’t afford any more head damage, so it’s good that it’s not too tight.” XD

And Juliette spoke up and said, “That’s a true story.”

And Rooker laughed and said, “Right?”

And THEN he said, “Thank you, baby.”  And y’all.  Y’ALL.  I literally almost fainted right there. I think I managed to say, “You’re welcome.”  I don’t even know at this point.  XD  

Oh, and also during that time, I said, “If I’d known you were going to shrink your shirt at the hotel last night, I would have brought you a shirt instead of a hat.”  

And he laughed again, and was like, “Right?? Can you believe that?  I don’t even know how it happened.”  XD

So then he signed my Yondu Pop, and he was like, “So whereabouts in Alabama are you from?”

(I probably shouldn’t even put this on the internet, but who cares? Y’all come find me if you want.  XD)  And I said, “Sumiton.” And he stopped signing the Pop, and leaned across the table, and stared right into my eyes, and said, “Oh, yeah.  I know Sumiton.”  Y’ALL. There is NO WAY I will ever be able to get that inflection across in a blog post, but I will NEVER forget the way he said that.  Like, it was not flirty at all, but y’all, that tone was border-line flirty tone, I can’t even explain it.  And he was SO CLOSE and LOOKING INTO MY EYES, and I managed to reply.  It was a miracle.  I said, “I thought you might.”  AND HE SMILED AT ME AND I DIED AGAIN.  And then we had a MOMENT and I want to cry just thinking about it.  

Then he finally went back to signing my Yondu Pop, and I can’t remember what he said then because I was still trying to recover from the previous thing. Lol  So when it was pretty much over, I said, “Thank you so much! You’ve made, like, my entire… year.”  I’d meant to say “day”, but halfway through my sentence realized it was more than that, and year just came out.  LOL  And he laughed again and was like, “You’re too sweet!”

And then as I was about to walk off, he said, “Waaaaait, what’s your name?  I forgot to ask!”  XD  So I told him, and HIS SMILE, y'all, he has THE BEST SMILE.  And then he said, “Thank you so much for coming to see me.”  And then when I finally tried walking away again, he said, “Roll Tide!”  so I had to turn around and say it back because you can’t just not return a “Roll Tide,” it’s just required as an Alabama fan.  

But I literally thought I was about to faint, and I was thinking,”Rooker, please, let me leave. I’m going to faint.” XD

BUT OMG IT WAS AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  He is SO nice!!!!  And SO charming. And he’s just mesmerizing up close.  Like, all thoughts left my head as I was looking into his eyes, which are BEAUTIFUL.  

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Once Rooker arrived for the photo-ops (I knew he was there because everyone at the front yelled his name when he got closer XD), that line moved SUPER fast and I was so close to panicking and absolutely losing it before I even got to the front.  When I got into the little enclosed area to drop off my bags, I could hear him, and I didn’t think I’d actually be able to walk inside.  XD But I managed it, and then I talked to the lady taking tickets while I waited for the people in front of me to get their picture taken.  

And she was like, “Are you having a good time today?!” (she was super peppy haha)  And I was like, “Yes!  I’m having the best time, it’s been so amazing!”  And she was like, “I’m so glad!” And I didn’t even REALIZE that Rooker had just said goodbye to the people in front of me and was WATCHING THIS EXCHANGE, and then he smiled SO BIG, and said, “Get over here, you sexy animal.”  And my mind short-circuited.  

I was prepared for the photo-ops to go super fast because everyone I’ve ever known to go to one has said the same thing, but it was just SO FAST.  I somehow managed to walk over to him after he called me a sexy animal (WHICH IS A BLATANT LIE, BUT I APPRECIATED HIM SAYING IT ALL THE SAME LOL), and then when I got to him, he PUT HIS ARM AROUND MY WAIST for the picture, so I DID THE SAME, and Y’ALL.  And I told him he made me blush, and he gave THE MOST MISCHIEVOUS laugh I have ever heard.  XD  And then the photographer took the picture so I now have the look on his face immediately following him calling me a sexy animal forever immortalized.  MY face looked AWFUL in the picture because I was SO FLUSTERED, and he knew EXACTLY what he was doing.  LOL

So anyway, after the picture, he was still SO smiley, and he GRABBED MY HAND, and said, “Thank you so much for coming to see me!”  And I was like, “No, thank YOU!”  And he laughed and said, “You are such a sweetheart!”  And I died again, and then I had to leave, but he was stilllllll holding my haaaaaaand, and if y’all think it was easy to let go so I could walk away, y’all are WRONG.  But then I floated around to get my bags, and then picked up my picture, and had to leave to go back to the hotel before I died, right there at the Tampa Bay Convention Center, because of Michael Rooker.  

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On Sunday, I had time to do his first signing and the photo-op again before I had to go to the airport, so I decided to do both again.  I wanted to talk to him again, but I also wanted to try to get a better picture, and I was determined not to let him fluster me again.  (I failed.)  I wanted to get there before his signing session started so I wouldn’t have to stand in line quite so long, but I took so long to leave the hotel that by the time I reached his line, it was almost time for it to start.  Even though the line was kind of long, it wasn’t as bad as the day before, although it got pretty long behind me after we’d been there a while.  

Once it was time for the session to start, I realized the line hadn’t moved at all, and I wasn’t sure if people were just staying at the table longer or what.  And then, about ten minutes later, I heard someone yell his name, and I looked over, and sure enough, he was walking across the con floor doing an Instagram live video.  XD  And he walked RIGHT PAST ME, Y’ALL.  And thank goodness that he panned the camera really fast because I did not want to be on his Instagram.  XD  I am in the video, by the way, but because he panned so fast, I’m not visible for long, and only noticeable because I knew I was there LOL  But yay for being in a Rooker video!  

So then he finally sat down and the line slowly started moving, and for some reason, I was more nervous that time than I was the very first time.  I didn’t have anyone to talk to for most of that time, but then when I got closer to the front and the queue snaked around, the girl behind me said, “I am so nervous!” and then we started talking.  She was super sweet, and I think she was more nervous than I was, which was really saying something, so I tried to help her calm her nerves.  XD  

Before I knew it, I was back to the table again, and when I got to the cashier, she was like, “Hey!  Weren’t you here yesterday?” “Um, yes.”  XD  But she was really friendly and we talked again until the line moved, and then Juliette was like, “Hey, sweetie, it’s good to see you again!”  And I was thinking, “Is it super unusual to go through the line twice or something?”  XD  I didn’t think I was memorable, but it didn’t matter because then I was ALMOST TO ROOKER AGAIN.  

The man in front of me said to Rooker, “I didn’t know what to get you to write.”

And Rooker said, “I prefer not to write anything anyway, I think it kinda clutters it up.”  And he signed the man’s picture and said, “This looks cleaner.”  

And then he HELD IT UP TO ME AND SAID,  “Doesn’t this look neater?”

And after I picked myself up off the floor, I was like, “Yes, it does!” ROOKER ASKED FOR MY OPINION ABOUT SOMETHING, I CAN’T EVEN.

I had considered having him write my name on the Merle picutre I’d picked out for him to sign that day, but then after he said that, there was no way I was going to ask him to add anything to it.  XD

The man didn’t stay long at all, so before I was prepared, I was standing in front of Michael Rooker again, and y’all, it wasn’t any easier the second day.  Haha  But I was like, “Hey!”  

And then he said, “Hey, love, it’s so good to see you again!”  

And I died for about the fiftieth time because he remembered me. I honestly don’t remember that much about that time, because I was just in a haze of happiness.  I do remember him talking about the Rowdy picture that I had him sign for a friend, because he was like, “ROWDY!! Right on!”  And I was like, “Rowdy is awesome.”  

I really wish I could remember more of that meeting, but it’s literally all a blank.  I know I told him that I’d see him again later on for the photo-op, and he said, “Oh, good!” and I melted when he smiled at me.  *thinks* Ugh, I’m so mad at myself for not remembering more of it.  But he talked while he signed both pictures, and then when I was leaving, he said, “I’ll see you later!”  And I skipped away in happiness. Haha

After I left his table, I immediately walked to the other side of the exhibition hall to buy my photo-op tickets.  When I walked up to the table, one of the ladies was like, “Let me guess, you want to buy a ticket for Michael Rooker’s photo-op?”  And I was like, “Did my shirt give it away?”  (because I was wearing another Yondu shirt lol), and she laughed, and was like, “I didn’t even see your shirt!  But everyone is buying Rooker photo-ops.”

I said, “Everyone loves Rooker.”  and she was like, “Obviously!” I think he was the highlight of the con for a lot of people.  Lol

__

The photo-op was supposed to start at 1:00, but they’d changed it to 1:10 on the ticket, probably because Rooker was late to his signing.  XD  But around 12:45, I decided to go ahead and get in line.  I figured I’d be kinda close since I was getting there early and they’d said they wouldn’t start the line until close to the photo-op, but it was already packed.  

I really, really wanted a Rooker hug, and the entire time I was in line, I was trying to talk myself into asking for one, because I knew this was my last chance of the weekend to get one.  That was probably the worst queue of the entire weekend, though, because I had kids in front of me and kids behind me, and they annoyed me so much.  Don’t get me wrong, I like kids, and these were sweet kids, but I was not in a mindset to handle children.  XD  And everyone around me was sitting on the floor, and I felt so exposed, and it was not helping my anxiety at all. I did talk to the couple behind me for a few minutes, though, because their toddler kept running past my legs.  XD  

Once the line did start moving, it moved fast, and I was stilllll not prepared to see him again.  XD But I was DETERMINED not to let him get me so flustered that my picture turned out terribly again.  LOL  Of course, all that went out the window when I got to the front and handed my ticket to the lady, who also remembered me.  XD  She was like, “HEY! Are you still having a good time?”  LORD.  “YES, I AM, THANKS!!!”  And after the people in front of me finished their picture, she was like, “Okay, you can go ahead!”  So I walked closer, but the people had three little kids with them, and they were trying to wrestle them out, and Rooker was just watching their poor attempts at it.  XD

And then he finally turned to me, and I was like, “Hey, again!”  And he smiled and was like, “Come on, sexy!”  (AND I DIED AGAIN.)

For those of you keeping count at home, that makes the fifth term of endearment he used, and I think he was trying to kill me.  XD

So I walked over to him, and he wrapped his arm around my waist again (Y’ALLLLL), so I did the same again, and the photographer took the picture, and then was like, “Wait, I need to do one more!”

And bless that photographer forever, because when he said that, Rooker squeezed my side and PULLED ME CLOSER TO HIM!!!!!!  And then after the pic was over, HE DIDN’T LET GO OF ME, but he turned to face me, so we still had our arms around each other’s waists and were standing SO CLOSE TO EACH OTHER, and I was DYING as he talked.  I don’t even KNOW what he said at first.  XD

But then he was like, “Thank you again for coming to see me!”  

And I was about to ask for a hug, but before I could, he wrapped his OTHER arm around me AND WAS HUGGING ME AND MY SOUL LEFT MY BODY AGAIN.  SO I HUGGED HIM BACK AND OMG HE’S SUCH A GOOD HUGGER!!!!!!!!!  ASDFJK;LKASDFKL;  

And when we let go, I said, “Thank you so much!” And LORD, Y’ALL, I think I flew out of there to pick up my bags and picture.  LOL  

[ohscorbus]

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: Saturday 11th August, 2018

I’d call this a recap but it’s going to read like a love letter to this cast and in particular, Joe. You see, Albus has always been my favourite. I’m so emotionally attached and invested in this character that I panic every time a new actor comes in to play him. This isn’t just a character I like, he’s a kindred spirit I need in my life. I’m in too deep. My biggest fear is that there will be an Albus I can’t connect with and although Joe is the fourth Albus I’ve seen now and this has yet to happen, that fear still lingers. So I’ve been taking my time and just watching and learning who his Albus is and you know what? Good things come to those who wait because now, especially after today, I’m at a place where I can say he’s become one of my favourites to watch on stage. He completely pulled my focus for the entire show today. Which is really saying something when next to him you have Jonathan doing that smile he does. You know, the one that looks like it can cure cancer and bring about world peace? Anyway, my point being, Scorpius has always been distracting for us as an audience. That character is suppose to pull on our heartstrings that way. Albus always has to work a little harder to get that reaction. (Although I do appreciate the irony of people not seeing who he is. Life imitating art and all.) Yet each Albus has been quite distinctive. Each one different from the last but still inherently the same character. To me, Sam’s Albus was defensive and impulsive, Theo’s Albus was open with his vulnerability but found hope and determination in his despair, and Joe’s Albus is resigned to his lot in life. He accepts every hit but continues on in spite of them. There’s quiet sort of maturity about him. His shield is his humour, not his actions or words. It’s such an interesting take on the character and it’s one I don’t think I could ever tire of watching.

Act One, Scene Three

After Albus and Rose had decided to check out the compartments, Albus started to walk in the opposite direction to her and began peering down the ‘corridor’ of the carriage. He ended up in front of Scorpius’s compartment but he didn’t look in straight away, he just sort of lingered outside. He was completely unaware that Scorpius was watching him the whole time with this look of recognition and awe on his face. He knew who Albus was and couldn’t look away. On stage there’s no walls or doors that show us the Hogwarts Express, yet I’ve never felt that sliding glass door separating them in this moment more clearly than I did today. It was such a heart stopping, delicate moment. There was a stillness about it. Being able to see their two worlds so separately before they become entangled. You had Albus looking at all these compartments but it’s the one right in front of him that’ll change his life. The very thing he’s scared of will make him stronger. While Scorpius is alone in that compartment, still safe in the bubble his family have kept him in for years. We could only watch and wait. Then Albus looks and makes the decision almost instantly and as Albus steps in that compartment, into his bubble, Scorpius’s world changes too. You could feel the excitement rolling off Scorpius once he started talking to Albus and Rose. This is the boy who knows his history and has dreamt of having friends like Harry Potter. Then suddenly he finds a Granger, a Weasley, and a Potter standing in front of him. I think Hogwarts became very real to him in that moment. All the stories he’s read and now he’s living it. This is quite literally the dream. Except of course they reject him. He sat down and turned his back to the door to avoid having to watch them leave him behind. But then Albus says he’s staying and Scorpius was not expecting that. You could see the internal panic as he visibly breathed in and out to calm himself. Partly out of shock, probably mostly out of nervousness. His thank you was precious. He truly meant that. Which is why I think Albus really goes out of his way to make sure Scorpius knows he’s teasing him about only staying for his sweets. That reaction (“I didn’t stay for you”) is so Albus. You know how I said before about Joe’s Albus using his humour? I think this is a great example of that. I’m sure Albus is just as nervous as Scorpius in this moment. So he’s instinctively fallen back on his dry humour. But then he looked at Scorpius and sang, ‘I stayed for your sweeeets’, making Scorpius relax almost instantly. For a lack of a better word, it’s really sweet. They’ve known each other for a matter of minutes at this point and already they’re giving each other what they need. Reassurance and a clean slate. Albus needs someone to look past his family name just as much as Scorpius does.

Act One, Scene Four

As soon as Albus walked up to the Sorting Hat and stood there all happy and smiley, like he knew he’d got this, I knew this was going to be a good scene. Why? Because it made me realise this Albus doesn’t know yet. He’s got a good relationship with his dad, he’s nervous about school but he’s ‘ready’, he’s already made a friend, and now the Hat is going to listen to him just like his dad said it would. Nothing to worry about! But then that one word brings his whole world crashing down around him. Slytherin. There must be so much running through his head in that moment. Everything has changed. The future he’d expected is now unknown. Yet the worst part? His dad lied. The Sorting Hat hadn’t listened to him. (Although I’d argue it did, but you know, to Albus in this moment it felt like it hadn’t. Little did he know that house is exactly where he belongs and needs to be.) The look on his face tells you that much. This was not the answer he was expecting or on some level, hoping for. Then Scorpius’s voice cuts through the noise and Albus turned towards him. He then looked up at the Slytherin banner hanging above him before walking towards Scorpius, accepting his fate. I think for Albus, this was the first of many cases of ‘works for Harry Potter but not Albus Potter’ at Hogwarts. It’s what slowly crushes him over time. That feeling of not being good enough. For the Hat, for the other kids, and for his family.

“And be my good friend” – Albus’s face broke my heart today. He looked so heavy hearted and somewhat shocked by Scorpius’s words here. His good friend? Isn’t he already a good friend? Why is Scorpius even asking that? Albus reached out for him as the scene ended after this line and he still looked at a loss over his friend. It also made me think about the argument later on in the library. Albus is always floored and then completely guilt ridden over Scorpius’s accusations and evidence of him being an awful friend. It’s an interesting contrast with Joe’s Albus and other interpretations. I’ve seen others take that phrase and agree without a second thought because it goes without saying. It never occurs to them that Scorpius would think anything different of him. That he’d have to ask for that. Is he failing at this too?

Act One, Scene Six

“Meet the once great Harry Potter, now a stone cold Minister man” – As Amos is speaking, Delphi and Harry always shake hands. It’s not a big moment, they’re both just being polite and humouring Amos. It’s what happens afterwards that’s interesting. So Harry looks down at his hand after she’s gone. He doesn’t know why, it’s an instinct thing. Sometimes he’ll shake it or flex his fingers. Just something so small, a detail easily missed and overlooked, but there and a sign if you know. It’s great. But anyway, that’s not what had me on the edge of my seat. I don’t know if Eve always does this and I’ve only just noticed, but after she shook his hand, she slowly and subconsciously reached back for her wand with this look in her eye as she stared at Harry while he was focused on Amos. Then just as her hand was there, she seemed to snap out of it. Years she’s been watching and planning and her instincts nearly made her throw it all away. It was super interesting! It gave me a fascinating insight in her Delphi, and Delphi in general. It definitely made me pay more attention to her smaller movements for the rest of the show. Like how visibly relieved she was when Amos backed down in St. Oswalds. It makes me wonder whether that’s part of her mask, or her mask slipping. I ended up watching the show with that in mind and made me realise just how young she is. The disorganised, frantic, and repetitive words scribbled across the walls of her room (there’s a panel that just has the word ‘father’ written over and over again in her disjointed, pointy, jagged handwriting) now felt childish. I felt her age and isolation in them. They became less ‘writings of a mad man obsessed’ and more ‘rages of a hurting, angry soul’. If that makes any sense. Don’t get me wrong, she’s dangerous, I guess what I’m trying to say is that I could see more clear than ever that part of her that desperately wants her father. It drives her like it does Albus and Scorpius. (Although all three take completely different roads in terms of handling it, obviously.) That’s why she can manipulate them so easily in that respect. She understands. I know this is all level one of understanding the characters/plot. I don’t think I’m explaining it very well. I think what I’m trying to say is that Eve made me think about Delphi more than I have before. I like the idea of her slipping. That one little action created ripples, and I’ve been intrigued by it ever since.

Act One, Scene Seven

Ginny and Albus sharing a smile at the very beginning of this scene still warms my heart. I really love the openness of their relationship. They may not say anything to each other in words here but they communicate quite easily. It’s practiced and heartfelt.

I think it’s great how relaxed and at home Joe’s Albus feels in his bedroom. He’s lying down and one of the most chilled out Albus’s I’ve seen in terms of being comfortable with his family repeating invading his space. Probably because he doesn’t see it as that I guess… I loved Dylan’s James bragging about the cloak. The emphasis on the ‘my’ as he pointed to himself really rubbing salt in the wound. Except Albus is lying on his back and mocking him once he’d left, imitating him by mouthing back his mouths and his pointing. He then started to sit up to help Lily look for her book but once his mum took over he carried on lying down. Joe’s Albus feels less like an outsider to his family. His issue is a communication one with his dad specifically. Which is interesting, and leads me into my next point, that Tom’s Harry and Joe’s Albus really worked well with this in mind.

(Did I mention that Tom Peters was on as Harry today? I haven’t seen him before but he was barely half way through his first scene and I already knew he was going to be brilliant. He’s someone I would definitely go out of my way to see again.)

Joe’s Albus and Tom’s Harry were so different to how Joe plays against Jamie’s Harry. Or any Albus and Harry in fact. It was in scenes like this that you could really see it. Now I’ll admit my favourite versions of this scene are always the angriest ones. The ones where they shout, get all up in each other’s faces, and even hit the other with blanket). To me, the aggression made those ugly words make sense. They’re not thinking, they’re feeling. Too much. They’re both explosive when pushed so of course when that’s aimed at each other it’s going to be a catastrophic. But then today happened. The whole scene felt different, less volatile. Albus seemed more open with this Harry. He was lying down on his bed but then sat up when Harry walked into his room. Then Albus shuffled further away as Harry got closer and Harry stopped, mid speech and in his tracks. Albus realises what that movement must have looked like so he patted the space next to him on his bed and encouraged his dad to sit down next to him. He was simply making space, not trying to put distance between them. Harry continued talking and then at some point Albus brought his legs up onto the bed and sat cross legged, with his back against his pillow, so he could face his dad. By this point I was on the edge of my seat because I don’t feel like I’ve ever seen this dynamic before. This Albus was still giving his dad a chance, and this Harry was really trying. So it felt uneven worse when it fell apart. It was less explosive but hurt just the same. Albus’s resigned face said it all. Those words didn’t cut him down the way they have other Albus’s because they’re words he already believes. He’s a disappointment. It makes sense. Just like fairy wings makes sense and invisibility cloaks make sense.

Act Two, Scene Six

So ‘Hide and Seek’ is playing in this scene and right at the beginning, even though it’s the instrumental version, you hear the words ‘hide and seek’ sung as the two boys walk forwards out of the shadows and towards the light, towards Hogwarts. My head connected the two and all I could see was Albus lagging behind, looking to the left of him into the depths of the forest, while Scorpius proceeded on forwards, looking up in awe at the castle until he was bathed in the same warm light. Hide and seek. A random observation I know, but I like their differences as much as I do their similarities and the music is in show is beautiful. I should definitely talk about it more.

Act Three, Scene Seven

What struck me here was Scorpius’s happiness. He was noticeably excited to be there with Hermione and Ron. I can’t help but imagine a younger Scorpius reading all about the trio and wanting his own adventure. Now he’s here, with Hermione and Ron, and they’re doing something completely wild. These aren’t just stories anymore, he’s in one. I bet he gets a tingle. If not over that, then maybe the fact that if he’s with Hermione and Ron and surely that makes him Harry in this scenario? I’m sure that hits him later on. He’s too much of a nerd not to. (Although I’m sure part of his happiness is relief. Those two are familiar faces and he has a way of fixing things now. But thinking about Scorpius’s geeking out is way more fun.)

Act Three, Scene Nine

So while Scorpius was doing his whole ‘It’s Haaaarry Potterrrr’ thing, Albus looked round at his mum and pulled this ‘I don’t know this lunatic, I played no part in these antics’ face. I love that Albus clearly loves Scorpius, weirdness and all, but I also love that he sometimes pretends he’s judging him for it. Or maybe he is. But it comes from a place of love. The way only true, long lasting friendships can. Your best friend is judging you, but they’re allowed to because you both know they’re just as bad.

Act Three, Scene Ten

“I agree it doesn’t sound good” - What I really loved about this scene was Albus and Scorpius’s interactions. I’ve seen previous Albus and Scorpius’s share looks as McGonagall speaks but these two went beyond that. Scorpius in particular was talking/mouthing something to Albus after he spoke. I really love all these additional interactions. It reads so much like a four year long friendship should. They have that connection that makes them sometimes forget there’s other people in the room.

Act Three, Scene Eleven

“Are you okay, Albus?” “No” “No. Nor me.” - These lines really hit home today. I felt them in a completely new way I’ve never thought about before. So Joe’s Albus is opening up to his dad here. He’s trying. His dad asking him if he’s okay means something to Albus because he responds honestly. No, he isn’t. What broke me today was how Harry’s own honesty back may have been taken. I felt like Albus started to believe they were connecting with this conversation. That his dad was finally listening to him and they were openly talking about the things that matter. But then Harry turns the conversation back onto himself (’Nor me’) and Albus breaks. Ginny is right, Albus does want him to be honest with him, but in this moment? I think he just needs his dad to listen. This look flashed across Joe’s face, of disappointed and hurt, and then he just walked off. He wanted his dad to hear that he’s not okay and do something about it, not just have him tell him he’s not okay either. It’s easy to forget that he’s simply just a child reaching out for his parent. I know people find it comforting to know they’re not alone in their pain, but I think here Albus feels like it trivialises his own. It didn’t surprise me to see Joe’s Albus looking more upset here than he did after their argument in his bedroom. That comment before was something he’d half suspected anyway, but to have Harry still overlooking him even now really hurts him. Meanwhile Harry was left sat on the suitcase at the end of Albus’s bed and staring off into space. Harry was so wrapped up in Harry (and the loss at what to do) that he fails to see Albus. Again. Quite literally too. He didn’t look at Albus for those last lines and I don’t think that helped Albus’s thought process.

Act Three, Scene Fourteen

“Do you think I’ve been tested too? I have, haven’t I?” - Another line which left a new impression on me. I think there’s a couple of ways to interpret its meaning but today I really felt Albus’s resounding disappointment. He isn’t asking if he’s been tested because he doesn’t want to feel left out or as a way of making sense of their adventure, it was said as if he’d already accepted he had failed. This was just another failure in a long list for Albus. You could hear it in his despondent tone.

Act Three, Scene Sixteen

I absolutely adore Albus and Scorpius’s interactions here. They shuffle in closer and face each other as they talk animatedly while the scene sets up around them. It’s like they’re in this bubble and are completely unaware as the world/stage moves around them. It portrays their relationship beautifully. You really feel the history and depth of their friendship in these moments. 

“Let’s do something new, something fun” - I love, love, love, love that Albus’s idea of something ‘fun’ was to drop it off the owlery. He just sort of looked around and then stretched his arm out over the side with the Time-Turner in his hand. It’s so reckless and instinctive and you know what really intrigues me? It requires zero magic. I wonder whether that’s a conscious decision...

Back to Delphi again. I just want to add that I find her one of the most sinister Delphi’s I’ve seen. I think that’s why I’m so interested in where that comes from. This child, hidden from the wizarding world but the focus of rumours. The scary parallel with Scorpius probably isn’t lost on her. She hates Scorpius. Eve makes that blatantly obvious on stage. She’s spiteful at every given opportunity. Even right in front of Albus. It’s a fine line but it’s like she can’t help herself. I wonder if it’s because of his family and their deflection, or if it’s something more petty, like everyone believing him to be the son of Voldemort. This is what I meant before when I was trying (and probably failing) to explain what I meant by seeing her youth. It’s not about her literal age, but her approach to things. She’s focused yet reckless at times. It makes a terrifying, vicious combination. She’s definitely more like her mother than her father in that respect. With previous Delphi’s, I’ve seen her here still be quite playful and innocent with the boys. The act doesn’t drop until that very last second. But with Eve, I could see her slowing slipping. The point where she’s telling them about augureys, she was glaring down at Scorpius with this look on her face that told me she knew he was making the connections in his head, and she wasn’t scared or nervous, but enjoying it. She wants him to give her a reason to end this charade. She’s enjoyed playing with them, but she wants her goal. Now.

Act Three, Scene Nineteen

“Craig. Get away. Get help!” – Albus is bound on the floor and at the mercy of Delphi and yet his first words were to try and save Craig. I just wanted to highlight this before I make my next point. (I will fight anyone who tells me this boy doesn’t have the loveliest heart.)

“Avada Kedavra!” – Albus looked away as her words rang out. He couldn’t bring himself to look at Craig. He knows their meaning, he sees that flash of green. He knows, and he’s broken by it. The way she said the word ‘spare’ a few lines later really looked like they cut into him. He tried to save a spare, both Cedric and himself, but instead he’s created a whole new one. It wasn’t until the very end of this scene, when Delphi stands in front of his body with the Time-Turner in her hands that he finally looks. He was stood next to her and he looked over his shoulder at Craig’s body on the ground before looking back and finally placing his hands on the Time-Turner. It was such a heartbreaking moment. It was slow and felt fragile. Like he couldn’t leave, not without acknowledging what he’s done first. It added even more weight to his line (“what she did to Craig…”) a few scenes later.

Act Four, Scene Three

“The Bathilda Bagshot?” – Albus nerding out over Bathilda is everything. He went up and slightly stroked the door, and then ran away when it opened. His ‘acting casual’ as she walked past him afterwards was atrocious. The boy has no chill, and he calls Scorpius out for this! Bless.

Act Four, Scene Eight

The ‘Made Leanne Cry’ Award today goes to… James Howard! (He always looks far too happy every time I tell him.) So, background context. Although he didn’t do it today, Joe’s Albus has been running over to Scorpius during Act Four, Scene Three during his geek out over Bathilda. He focuses him and gets him to breathe in and out in time with him. It’s really sweet and a true testament to their relationship. Acknowledging your anxiety and panic attacks with someone and then letting that person not only see you but help you in your weakest moments speaks volumes as to how much Albus means to Scorpius. While I know that moment on stage is by no means a full blown panic attack, it’s just Scorpius freaking out so much he forgets breathe, I love that Albus recognises the signs instantly and stops his own geeking out to help him. We know they’re that close but to see it in such a ‘blink and you’ll miss it’ moment says how these actions aren’t even a big deal to them. They will help and protect and save each other without question and move on with their day. I’m completely digressing now but that’s why I love Joe and Jonathan’s Albus and Scorpius so much. Their portrayal of the friendship is subtle but everywhere and so rich. Anyway, back to James Howard. So after they had all been reunited and hugged it out, Scorpius was trying to process how they’d got there and talk to them about Delphi and of course he started to stumble with his words and Draco, just like Albus, focuses him and makes a point to take a long, deep breath in and out as a way of telling him to do the same. It broke me. Jonathan is consciously playing Scorpius with these panic attacks in mind. It’s who his Scorpius is. I’ve always personally imagined Scorpius having these kind of issues so that in itself is nothing new, but I thought it was something he would probably keep hidden from his dad. So seeing that Draco was one hundred percent aware and knew exactly how to help him was unexpected but so completely welcomed. They may be having some communication issues but Scorpius needs his dad just as much as Draco needs him. I don’t know if it’s because it’s just the two of them but I feel their desperation and reliance on each other so much more than I do with Harry and Albus. Their relationship is so intense in those scenes once they’re back together it leaves you knowing without a doubt that they work through their issues.

One last point on this. I really love that Scorpius has the unwavering support of the two people in his life he needs the most. The fact that he doesn’t have to hide it from either of them and that they both play yet another role in his life, an important one too, really warms my heart. I’m glad Scorpius has this. That feeling when you can’t breathe and the moment when your vision falters and you can’t focus properly on the sounds around you, only the feeling of your chest as its about to burst, it feels life threatening and terrifyingly endless. Yet he gives them the power to pull him out of that. To be the light in the darkness. It speaks of so much trust and love. Again, it’s another ‘blink and you’ll miss it’ moment but it gave you such an incredible insight into Scorpius and his relationship with his dad. This cast are exceptional at providing these little moments. Look out for them!

Act Four, Scene Nine

This is going to seem like a really weird note to make but between scene nine and ten, they kind of lower the lights and the actors do this thing where they slowly move into place before snapping into the scene as the music and lights do. (It shows movement of time and I love it.) Anyway, sometimes the actors do things in character during this slow motion bit that make my heart burst. Like, Samuel’s Scorpius would do this little wave at Albus because they had just been separated while Albus slept and Scorpius was, presumably, hanging out with his dad. Anthony’s Scorpius would tuck his hair behind his ear. And, like father like son, Alex’s Draco once smoothed his hair down as he walked through the door. All these tiny actions brought me such joy. Is that weird? Anyway, Joe joined the club today by waking up during this part and doing this big yawn. I think I giggled. It’s so Albus-y. I love it. That boy’s relationship with sleep reads like a love story. He’s such a teenage boy.

Act Four, Scene Ten

“Draco, trust my dad. He won’t let us down.” – Two things about this scene. One, the look on Scorpius’s face as he looks between Albus and Draco is priceless. He’s on the edge of his seat (literally), not knowing what his dad will do after being spoken to like that. I think there’s also a little bit of awe in there? Albus speaking to his dad without fear means something when your dad is Draco Malfoy. Making friends isn’t easy when your family has that reputation. The fact it doesn’t phase Albus isn’t lost on Scorpius. (Although personally I do like to think they already sort of know each other. They’ve been best friends for four years, there’s no way they haven’t met each others parents yet. And I’ll fight anyone who doesn’t believe Albus met Astoria. You think a mother who knows she has years left not decades wouldn’t go out of her way to meet her son’s only friend?) Anyway, Draco doesn’t say anything back but his fingers were working overtime.

(To explain that last comment for those of you who haven’t read many of my recaps before, James’s Draco does this thing where he rubs this thumb and forefinger together, going round and round in frantic circles, whenever he’s stressed or anxious or angry for some reason or another. I think it’s a form of control for him? Like he’s channeled all that energy down into his fingers so it’s manageable. I’ve always been a big fan of this but now that we have Jonathan who’s emphasising Scorpius’s own anxiety, it’s added a whole new layer to it. Maybe that’s why he opened up to his dad or maybe how Draco spotted the signs. I really like the idea of these two helping each other out that way.)

And secondly, once Draco decides not to contest the plan anymore he pulls Scorpius (and sort of herds Albus) over towards the back of the church and behind him while he helps transfigure Harry. Today, once Draco had turned round and was facing away from the boys, Albus turned to Scorpius and pulled this face which can only be described as the grimace emoji. That kind of ‘eek! I can’t believe I just did that!’ face. It was great. He seemed so confident in the moment but obviously inside and afterwards he was not so chilled.

When Harry has transfigured into Voldemort, he turns round and faces everyone in the church. The reactions are what you’d expect. From Ron’s ‘bloody hell’ to the memories and fear cursing through Draco leaving him looking rather drained. But nestled behind the adults and peering through are Albus and Scorpius. I couldn’t see Scorpius that well but Albus’s face was loud and clear. His face hardened as he looked at ‘Voldemort’. It was unexpected but the more I think about it, it’s really not. For a boy with confidence issues he does have a tendency to tackle things head on. Visually though, it made such an interesting mix of reactions!

Act Four, Scene Eleven

“Alohomora!” - Joe’s Albus does this thing with his wand every time before he uses it. He holds out his arm and then wipes it on his sleeve quickly a couple of times. I love it because it’s a quirky Albus thing. But it also makes me a little bit sad when I think why he might be doing that. Because to me it reads like he’s doing it because he doesn’t believe in himself. He doesn’t trust his wand or his magic not to fail him. So maybe he’s cleaning it? Hoping by polishing it, it will somehow make it work better? Maybe he did it once and then he managed to successfully cast something and now he thinks he has to do it every time. Or maybe it’s just a ‘thing’ but you know me, I like to read into everything and make it angsty. It definitely feels like it’s something to do with his temperamental relationship with magic. Albus isn’t a Squib or bad at magic, it’s a self esteem issue that hinders his ability. The more pressure he puts on himself, the more it falters. The second he convinces himself he’s going to fail, he does. Back in the wand dance (Act One, Scene Four), Albus pulled this face as he held up his wand that clearly told us he knew this wouldn’t work but hey, he was going to have a go anyway. Of course then when he doesn’t work he’s proved himself right. Jump forward to this scene and what’s interesting here is that in this moment failure is not an option, and it’s in moments like this when there’s no time for doubt that Albus always succeeds. (For example, the cushioning charm as he jumps off the train.) Yet Albus still stopped here to swipe his wand across his sleeve before he cast. He’s exposed and there’s lethal spells flying all around and he still stops! I wonder if whether it’s a case of that seed of doubt being so ingrained in him that he still has to do it, or if it was done subconsciously out of habit, or even because he knows he can’t fail and does it to (in his mind) make sure he doesn’t fail.

On a personal note, as someone who’s struggled with OCD for the past fifteen or so years, that connection with cleaning and something working right isn’t lost on me. I’m not saying that’s what it’s about, or that act is a compulsion for Albus, but it could so easily be because that need to clean isn’t always about cleanliness. It’s sometimes just the act itself. It’s your brain telling you that you have to do this process otherwise something bad with happen. Sometimes you’re not even aware, you subconsciously do it with little thought. Other times it chips away at you until you break. Or worse, those times when you do it with no resistance because you’re convinced those voices in your head are right. This thing will work if only you do this process first. I’ve never really thought about what it would be like for a wizard with OCD before but there’s no way it wouldn’t affect their magic. Especially if it was in relation to their wand. Again, I’m not saying that’s what it is, but if it was then I could understand Albus not wanting to fight it in that moment. 

You know what? It almost reminds me of Scorpius’s wand too and how Anthony felt the carvings on it were a kind of self harm born from Scorpius’s grief. Magic is so greatly affected by your emotions and both Albus and Scorpius have to deal that. They both do it in different ways but what’s interesting is that, in theory, they’ve both focused all that negative attention onto their wands. This physical extension of their magic. I might be completely wrong here but it definitely makes for an interesting line of thought...

Act Four, Scene Fifteen

“I’m going into pigeon racing. I’m quite excited about it.” - Another Joe thing that I loved! When he said this line he leaned into his dad and pointed upwards as if pointing out a pigeon in a nearby tree. Sadly, Harry didn’t look so he never reacted to it but Albus was having a great time teasing his dad. What a beautiful way to end the show. I love their mutual hug afterwards of course, that always feels like a conclusion. But seeing where their relationship was and where it’ll be again was something we need even more than that.

Trying to summarise this show in a few sentences is impossible. I’ve just written six thousand words on something I’ve been watching over and over again for two years now and I could still easily say more. That’s what I love about this play. You can’t see and know and understand it all. No one ever will. Every cast and every show gives you something new. I sat there today and I’m still in awe of the beauty of this story and its translation onto the stage. I tell people that this is my favourite instalment of the Harry Potter series and they’re baffled by that. I love the books and using my imagination because yes, even though it’s happening inside my head ‘why on earth should that mean that it is not real’? And as much as that is true, this play brings me out of my head in that sense. It makes it real in a way a movie can’t. I’m there at Hogwarts with Harry and better than that, I get to share the experience with others. Imagination is great but it’s so personal. No one’s Hogwarts in their head is going to be the same as anyone else’s. You’re always going to be alone in that sense. But there in the Palace Theatre I’m not. We’re all watching the same thing. It’s that Scorpius feeling of realising you’re not reading about this adventure, you’re part of it. 

I think because I purposely distanced myself from fandom until Cursed Child, I never felt that inclusion of the wizarding world that way. Fandoms can be so destructive but here I’ve found a community of kind and passionate people (fans and actors alike) that has been so welcoming. It’s what Hogwarts should be. Every new cast feels like a new term, and each show feels like a lesson. You live, you laugh, you learn, and I come away feeling a little bit more connected to this world that I’ve loved since I was a child. My family often ask when I’m going to grow up and give up on Harry Potter and it confuses me every time. You don’t outgrow Harry Potter, you grow with it. I found myself in the teenage version of these characters and I still see myself in the adult versions now. They’re real to me, to a lot of us, and getting cast after cast who understand that is what makes this show what it is. Their skills as actors are of course phenomenal, but it’s the heart and energy they put into every show that makes it magical. That doesn’t come from acting lessons or theatre experience, it’s a feeling you just have if you’ve grown up with the books. It stays with you and inspires you.

[seynabri]

Tokyo in Tulsa 2018

It is time for the story of Tokyo in Tulsa 2018. It all starts on a Wednesday....

Wednesday

The Wednesday was where all the craziness started. Being newly married and living in a house I was the one whose place was best suited for everyone staying over before leaving the next day. So that meant my brother, Kelsey, and Dani sleeping at my place. But wait! There's more! Skyler and Erin decided the drive from Minnesota to Tulsa was not something they wanted to do again. So they drove down to Omaha on Wednesday as well. To also stay with me! Full house!

So fun story about the korok costumes. While I went to church that night Dani and Kelsey went outside and spray painted the three of them and left them laying on the lawn. When you drive into our neighborhood toward our house there’s a part of the street where you can see our backyard. I look over. What are those colorful things on our lawn??? Those skiiiiins???

Well Dani came over first and we spent the day working on cosplay. Since you know... we're so great at getting things done on time. Kelsey came over a little later and... worked on cosplay. Then I had to leave for a bit. But then I came back and Brock arrived and we ate dinner and... worked on cosplay. Until eventually Dani and were like. Okay. We HAVE to get the skit audio recorded. Because it's not just cosplay that we do last minute.

Enter. The Husband. Remember the mention of newly married? Said husband has a little mini studio. Recording equipment. Instruments. Recording software. Clearly I married him so our skit audio could be better than previous years. (Like the time we used the mic on a pair of iphone earbuds in the hotel room closet. Good times.) So he got that all set up. And we proceeded to take several hours to record a 3 minute skit...

It was just so scary! Dani and I, two can't get any whiter girls, trying to rap the Zelda/Hamilton parody we had written. But honestly. The rapping wasn't the worst. It was when we got to the singing. No one in our group could get past the auditions on American Idol. Let's just say that. But being the least worst I got stuck with the singing. Which was... super fun. I maybe cringe a bit every time I hear the audio. But that could just be one of those "you're your own worst critic" scenarios.

Eventually Skyler and Erin showed up and we all talked and worked on stuff and got stuff ready and passed out way later than we should've. But we were ready! To go to Tulsa. Not.. the cosplays. But they were ready to be brought down to get finished!

Thursday

So we got a later start than we usually do on Thursday. On purpose. We wanted sleep. And since Skyler and Erin came down and there were six of us we split between two cars. It was finally my year. Year nine of us going down and I was finally the one who had to drive. I mean. I did finally get a car last year. A Prius. With it's excellent gas milage. So naturally it was my turn. In my car we had myself... obviously, Kelsey, and Brock. So the other car was Skyler, Erin, and Dani.

Before leaving Omaha we hit up Walmart to get our groceries for the weekend. And then we were off! The usual, non eventful, drive down to Tulsa. Although Dani almost died so there was that. She was sitting in the back in the other car and Erin noticed the door open light was on. Dani's back there, leaning on the door, listening to music, no seatbelt, oblivious to the whistling from the door.... She survived though!

So we get to Tulsa, check into our hotel. Haul all our stuff up to the 3rd floor. And there was a lot of stuff. But the 3rd floor was great because it's only one floor above the floor that leads to the sky bridge that goes over to the convention center. So we basically got to avoid the elevators the whole weekend. Which if anyone here has been to a convention at a hotel with elevators you know how crazy those waits can get.

After getting a little settled Brock and I ran down to go pick up our badges. We were the only ones who happened to pre-register. Which ended up being not as convenient as it sounds because the line we ended up in because of our last names was the longest one. It took... a while. And then when the others got their badges the next morning they were back to fast. Jealous.

THIS MONSTROSITY

The rest of the night was working on cosplay. I still had my wig to finish but I pushed that one off until the next day and worked on some other miscellaneous things. Little things here and there with the other cosplays and painted the props for the skit with Erin. A few of our Tulsa friends also stopped by to say hello. Other than that it was a pretty chill night.

Friday

Friday morning, after waking up and treating ourselves to the free breakfast the hotel provided it was back to cosplay work! I actually worked on my wig this time and finally finished that monstrosity! When it was time to go down to the con I threw on my K-ON! uniform because it's comfy and I didn't know what else to bring for Friday. Dani was Tsukimi, Brock was Spider-Man, Kelsey was comfortable, and Skyler and Erin were casual Hawke and Fenris.

Aww yiss Fenris.

Friday was a lot of wandering and getting the lay of the land. We hit up the vendors room first and that might have been when I bought a couple of new phone charms. In the artist alley we found the cosplay contest sign up and went ahead and did that. Honestly I can't remember much of what we did on Friday at the convention center. I know there was a lot of finding each other, losing each other, and then window shopping. At one point, Kelsey, Brock and I spend a couple hours very slowly going through the artists alley making mental notes of what we liked.

The one picture I have of me from Friday.

After all that though we went back to the room to eat some food and continue our work on the costumes that needed to be ready for the next day. That's kinda how last minute we were. At some point we had to stop and go practice our skit. So it was down to our usual practice spot!

d’awwwww

I'd say this was the longest we spent practicing. We had a lot of blocking to do. We wanted to make sure we had movement and plenty of fun things to look at. Dani and I by the nature of our skit were mostly just standing to the sides for the whole thing so the two of us were the ones who stood back and did the blocking. I kind of felt like a crazy, demanding person telling people where to go and what to do. I'm sorry if I got a little bossy guys! But it was fun and I think it turned out very successful!

We were super mature about this way this looked...

Also I've heard that song we did so many times that I now sometimes mix the lyrics with the song it's actually based off of. Yikes. Afterwards we made sure we finished everything else that needed to be finished and then passed out so we could get up in time to go to pre-judging.

Saturday

So pre-judging! It was a mad dash getting ready in the morning. I had to get up particularly early because I hadn't had time to do a makeup practice. And my character had a mildly intricate design on the face. Which... mostly got covered up by the wig later. But it still looked cool, I promise! Our koroks got to get ready the quickest since they weren't going to be seen underneath the costume. On the flip side though because they were so covered they were dying from the heat the whole time they wore those things.

Paya is ready for her day!

Paya and Purah checking in!

Too much cute!

Selfie with the hero!

It was humid and boring while we waited. But we had our fun!

One of the few full body shots of me. All those layers killed any curves I have. I need to figure that out for next time. Paya most definitely has some definitive curves.

The Tator Jaegars!!!

So we go down to the convention center and... had to wait for a while before they opened it up. We get up to the room we'll be judged in and also where the contest will be and... more waiting. There was a shift in the cosplay staff this year and it definitely had some of those... transitioning feels. So not as smooth as we're used to but oh well. After a while the skits were called to go backstage and... guess what! More waiting! But eventually we did get to go on and perform and outside of a couple of timing issues it went pretty well!!

Practicing while we waited.

I love when we look nice and colorful!

Waiting backstage to perform.

Right afterwards we went back to the room. Our poor koroks were dying from the heat. We ate some food and our koroks changed to more comfortable clothes. And then... it's been a month since the con. I've been so busy that I've been writing this in little spurts. Stuff happened on Saturday! I know there was a lot of wandering around. I ordered a couple of commissions in the artist alley.

Caught!

Model alert!

Something about those eyes.....

Taking a quick break.

Hmm. What did we do. Mostly lots of walking around. We didn't go to a single panel. So we did a lot of shopping. Ate some Dippin' Dots at one point. Yum. Poor Dani wanted to go outside and take pictures but we kept getting distracted. And when we finally did make it outside we only got a couple of pictures in before. Dun dun DUUUUN. It started raining. And with the wigs Dani and I were wearing. Rain would have been disastrous. So we had to run inside. I'msorryDani.

The beautiful before the rain started pictures.

See! It exists!

So adorable!

Silly times in Hyrule....

Some pics from The photoshoot our Link and Purah did together!

Mmmmm.

I know we went to the hotel room then. I think we were hungry so we ate some food. And by then it was about time to be getting to the contest. After getting all ready we went down to the convention center and waited until we were let into the room. Unlike previous years the skits went backstage right away and got to hang out in this curtained off area. Which had a little bit of seating, which was nice. So we sat back there waiting to go on. Playing on our phones. Chatting. Peaking out at the walk on line every so often to see if it was getting close to the skits yet.

Speak no evil. Hear no evil. See no evil. :D

Guys! It’s picture time!

Yay!

Eventually it was time! As usual the time onstage was a bit of a blur. The thing I most distinctly remember was the clatter as Dani's chopsticks from her hair fell one by one and hit the stage. I don't think the audience heard it but I was definitely very confused for a minute there. Other than that though things went wonderfully! And after leaving stage we were pretty excited about getting through it and hearing the crowd cheer and laugh. After a bit we were escorted to the back of the room to watch the rest of the skits and the results.

They killed him. D:

No remorse.

Passionate pointing!

There he go.

git it gurl

YAAAAAH

Giving my to-do list to Link.

Link is not amused.

More pointing!

So we get to the results and as usual they announce the hall cosplay winners first and then get to the skits. This is where things got crazy! They announce third place and lo and behold it's the people who have won first place every year we've done this. We were shook. And let that little hope into our hearts. Although Dani and I kept looking at each other and saying not to get our hopes up. And then second place is announced. Not us. So we're like. Okay. There's no way. Right?? Right?!?!

BUT GUESS WHAT!!!!! WE GOT FIIIIIIIRST!!!! We were shooken as Dani says. We walk on upstage all smiles because OMGWEWON. And then we had to stand there for a while with our certificates but it was so awesome!!! Once they ended everything we had to go and get our prize (moniiies) and fill out forms for the best prize. Badges for next year!!! So that was pretty exciting!

So happy!!!

We went outside after to get some pictures of all of us. Finally got some outdoor pictures because it had stopped raining. Which was nice. After that we went up to the room to order our celebration pizza! Which we used the money we won to buy. And divided up the rest. Which... took me way longer than it should have. I'll admit that. Even with a calculator I was having a rough time. Mostly with how the bills were divided.

It’s research time!

Waiting for that hero to appear!

Creeeepyyyy.

FIRST PLAAAACE

Paya getting ready in the morning. :D

Some koroks are very close with each other..

Cuties. All of them.

fab

Super sneaky korok <_<

Oh boy. We all know what time it is! Climbing!

So now that’s it’s been announced officially online elsewhere. Kelsey is having a babyyyyyy!!!!!!! 

Anyway. We ate pizza. We watched tv. Our friends visited. We had a good time! By the end of the night I was exhausted. Somehow everyone else still had energy enough to go to the rave but I just couldn't. I really am the great grandma of the group. My age is showing! So I passed out while they went and did that.

The best my hair has ever looked after being under a wig all day. Plus a good shot of that makeup because I’m proud of it!

Sunday

Sunday, Sunday. The last day. I'll admit I was alone for most of Sunday. After getting all packed and checked out I wanted to do the last of my shopping. And I kept getting separated from everyone else so I kinda just wandered alone. I mostly bought stuff in the artist alley. Although I did get some stuff for my husband's birthday in the vendors room. I picked up a commission. Had some long, fun talks with some artists. Bought myself some more Dippin Dots. Just generally had a good time wandering around.

The Tator Jaegers about to say goodbye to Tulsa for another year!

I did eventually meet up with Dani and Brock. And we sat around in the hallway exhausted and people watching. By the time we found everyone else we were also finding our Oklahoma friends. So there was some meeting and talking and we figured while we had everyone we may as well say our goodbyes and get going. So there were hugs and well wishes and we were off!

TULSA FRIIIIEEENDS!!!

Well. Off to find lunch. At Arby's! And then really on the road! For the most part it was uneventful. Until we drove through a storm. Which happened to also be when we had to take a detour. So that was interesting. Driving through small towns on an unknown road while it's storming. Apparently the other car saw a mini tornado! We didn't get anything quite as scary.

Otherwise we made it home okay and all was well. Another year of Tokyo in Tulsa. It had a slightly different vibe than previous years what with the staff changes. But otherwise it was a blast! Winning the skit contest was most definitely the highlight of the weekend! Thanks to everyone who made that possible. And just thanks to all my friends for being the best and making the con such a good time. I love you all and until next year!

Our short shenanigans video! 

[coolinaustin]

SXSW 2018: Free Party RSVP Roundup, Part 1

South by Southwest 2018 is just around the corner, and to help you keep your eyes on the party prize, we’re rounding up the RSVP details for the best of the free parties that you might actually want to go to.

All of the events below ask you to RSVP, and we anticipate that they’ll all most likely be open to people without badges or wristbands. However, some of these parties do give priority entry to badge and wristband holders, and some become badge-only at night — we’ve identified those in the listings.

We’ll be posting batches of new parties right here in the days ahead and compiling the full list on the “SXSW” tab at the top of this page — so keep checking back for updates!

A few tips for maximum enjoyment:

1) SHOW UP EARLY. Parties sometimes hit capacity very soon after they open, so there’s a good chance that you’ll be dealing with some pretty serious lines by mid-afternoon, especially on the weekends and double-especially on Music weekend. Plan accordingly and have several backup options just in case. Also be aware that free drinks and free food may not last for the entire event, so try to get there when doors open whenever possible to maximize your chances of getting the good stuff.

2) RSVP for as many events as possible, even if they conflict, and even you’re not sure you’ll actually go. It’s good to have options (see tip #1).

3) If an event page says the party is sold out, check again later (and get on the waitlist if there is one). Some organizers reopen their lists and start accepting more RSVPs closer to the event.

Stay tuned to this site, our Twitter feed, and our Facebook page for more RSVP tips, band recs, and other SXSW-related goodness. Heard about any cool events you don’t see on the list yet? Tweet @ us and let us know! Good luck out there!

Multiple Days

Mashable House Fri. 3/9 and Sat. 3/10 from noon–5pm; Sun. 3/11 from 11am–3pm • The Main, 610 East 6th Street • RSVP required Free food early in the day, sometimes free drinks, swag, mingling, product demos, and various other activities. This is an official event so badges will get priority, but you can usually get in without one if you get there early enough. The big MashBash party is Sunday night from 9pm–2am, and that’s most definitely gonna be badge-only. The Deep End by Vox Media Fri. 3/9 through Sun. 3/11 • 11am–8pm • The Belmont, 305 West 6th St. • RSVP required Free food and drinks, cool panels, podcast tapings, arcade games, and more. Sounds like a great time and should be a pretty hot commodity.

The Fast Company Grill at SXSW Interactive Fri. 3/9 through Mon. 3/12 • 11am–4pm • Cedar Door, 201 Brazos St. • RSVP required Free drinks, tech demos, panels. If you’re patient you can probably also get some free food. One of our faves!

Fox Sports House Fri. 3/9 through Mon. 3/12 • 11am–8pm • Hangar Lounge, 318 Colorado St. • RSVP required; may be badge-only at times This is an official SXSW Sports lounge, but they’re taking RSVPs so there’s a chance that parts of it could be open to the public. Sounds like there should be lots of food and drinks to go around, plus some sports panels and special parties throughout the weekend.

Pinterest House Sat. 3/10 and Sun. 3/11 • 10am–2pm • Container Bar, 90 Rainey St. • RSVP required Free drinks, food, and panels. This is technically badge only, but they were somewhat flexible on that last year. Swing by and find out if you’re in the area.

Future of Technology Lounge 2018 Sat. 3/10 through Tue. 3/13 • 11am–5pm • Capital Factory, 701 Brazos St., 5th Floor • RSVP requested Tech demos, panels, and probably some free snacks and drinks at various times during this multi-day lounge hangout.

Texas A&M X '47 Discovery House Sun. 3/11 from 3pm–midnight; Mon. 3/12 from 11am–midnight • RSVP required Free Stiles Switch BBQ, music, and a bunch of other things Aggies like. It’s unclear whether signing up on this event page counts as an RSVP, so look out for a confirmation email.

Playground Pop Up at Alibi Sun. 3/11 from noon–8pm + 9pm–midnight; Mon. 3/12 from 2–7pm + 8pm–midnight • Alibi, 96 Rainey St. • RSVP required Music technology party with demos and DJs. Night events are probably badge-only.

#WeDC @ SXSW Sun. 3/11 and Mon. 3/12 • Easy Tiger, 709 East 6th Street • RSVP requested Most of the details are still TBA for this year’s event, but we loved it last year. Potentially some free drinks, food, and swag in addition to panels and music.

Pandora at SXSW Tue. 3/13 through Thu. 3/15 • 1–6pm • Gatsby, 708 E. 6th St. • RSVP required Three days of good up-and-coming bands. Make sure to pick up your Pandora wristband in advance to avoid standing in line twice.

TWIX House of Duos at Lustre Pearl Wed. 3/14 and Thu. 3/15 • 1–7pm / 8pm–midnight • Lustre Pearl, 94 Rainey St. Nice lineup of duo music acts. Night shows are probably badge-only.

Dr. Martens Presents COLLiDE @ Container Bar 2018 Wed. 3/14 through Fri. 3/16 • Noon–7pm • Container Bar, 90 Rainey St. Three days of live music.

PMA Global Street Farm Wed. 3/14 from 1pm–midnight and Thu. 3/15 from 3pm–midnight • L’Estelle, 88 ½ Rainey St. • RSVP required; badges get priority Food samples, cocktails, live bands. Global street food tastings both nights from 9pm–midnight — these are sure to be in high demand, so it might be difficult to get in without a badge.

FLOODfest Wed. 3/14 through Fri. 3/16 • Times TBA (day + night shows) • Cedar Street Courtyard, 208 W. 4th St. • RSVP required Three days of day and night shows. Badges get priority at night and it’s usually tough to get in without one.

British Music Embassy Wed. 3/14 through Sat. 3/17 • 2–6pm • Latitude 30, 512 San Jacinto Blvd. • RSVP required Brit rock, fun vibes, and occasional free drinks make this four-day event one of our favorites each year. RSVP separately for each day: Wednesday / Thursday / Friday / Saturday

BrooklynVegan + Margin Walker Present: Lost Weekend Thu. 3/15 through Sat. 3/18 • Noon–6pm • Cheer Up Charlies, 900 Red River St. • RSVP requested Lineup info is still TBA, but there’s usually a very good slate of acts. RSVP separately for each day: Thursday / Friday / Saturday

Sound + Color Presented by M&M’s Fri. 3/16 and Sat. 3/17 • 1–7pm / 8pm–midnight • Lustre Pearl Rainey, 94 Rainey St. • RSVP required Great two-day lineup and probably hella M&Ms at this Rainey Street bash. Friday afternoon acts include LovelyTheBand (2pm), Mallrat (3pm), Gothic Tropic (4pm), Flint Eastwood (5pm), and Okkervil River (6pm). The night showcase is very likely badge-only; headliners include R.LUM.R, Billie Eilish, and Sylvan Esso. Saturday afternoon’s lineup includes Warbly Jets (2pm), CYN (3pm), The Shacks (4pm), Ron Gallo (5pm), and The Black Angels (6pm). The night showcase features Night Beats, Albert Hammond Jr., and Cut Copy.

Friday, March 9

Fitvent 10am–6pm; 8pm–2am • 301 Chicon St. • RSVP requested Fitness-focused gathering featuring music, speakers, and giveaways. Free food and nonalcoholic drinks in the evening.

YouEarnedIt @ SXSW 4–8pm • YouEarnedIt, 206 East 9th Street, Suite 1502 • RSVP requested Free food, open bar.

Panoply #DataParty 4–6pm • Ginger Man, 301 Lavaca St. • RSVP requested Free drinks and food at this networking event for data and marketing pros.

ATX Startup Crawl Multiple locations and hours; RSVP to get the map and more details • RSVP requested Free drinks and food hosted by companies all over downtown, starting in the afternoon and continuing into the evening. A classic way to kick off the fest.

Do512 Presents Galactic Interactive 6:30pm–2am • Hotel Vegas, 1500 East 6th Street • RSVP required Free drinks, cool bands, and standup comedy at this outer-space-themed throwdown. Music lineup features Great Good Fine OK, Riverboat Gamblers, SMiiLE, Tamarron, and more.

Saturday, March 10

Spredfast Smart Social Suite Day party (time TBA) • The W Austin, 200 Lavaca St. • RSVP required; must receive confirmation Free food, drinks, and other festivities. This was our favorite party last year, and it’s pared down to just one day this time, so make the most of it! Must request invite and get confirmation email.

Retail Innovation Lounge 9am–5pm; happy hour 5–7pm • Max’s Wine Dive, 207 San Jacinto Blvd. • Must request invite and receive confirmation Free cocktails and food.

Saved By The Brunch 2018 Presented By Natural Light 10am–2pm • Deep Eddy Cabaret, 2315 Lake Austin Blvd. • RSVP required Drinks, burgers, and a DJ. The organizers would like to note that this Natty Light-sponsored event is for “deal closers only.”

Smart Home Open House Hosted by Yonomi 10am–6pm • Yonomi Townhouse, 111 West 8th St. • RSVP required Free wine, beer, snacks, home goods on display from local vendors, and demos of smart home devices.

American Cities House: Startup Celebration Rooftop Lunch 12:30–2:30pm • Maggie Mae’s, 323 East 6th St. • RSVP required Free lunch and libations.

Soundcheck Saturday 1pm–?? • Hotel Vegas, 1500 E. 6th St. • RSVP requested A bunch of bands and multiple booze sponsors, so possibly free or discounted drinks.

#SXsmarketing - The Smart Way to Work with Agencies 2–6pm • Darwin's Pub, 223 East 6th Street • RSVP required Open bar for beer, wine, and well drinks, plus panels and networking.

Connect 2018 6pm–1am • Terrace 59, 412 Congress Ave. • RSVP required Complimentary tacos and open bar. Looks like you’ll need to receive confirmation to be sure you’re on the list.

Startup Night SXSW 2018 Presented by the Kauffman Foundation & TechCo 8pm–12:30am • Maggie Mae’s, 323 East 6th St. • RSVP required (Probably) free drinks; get there early to have a chance of getting in, as badges will get priority.

Sunday, March 11

Create + Cultivate: Women to Watch 11am–5:30pm • The Refinery, 612 Brazos St. • RSVP required Panels, mentoring sessions, and other events, plus some free food and beverages at certain times while they last. This one was packed last year and there are some more big-name speakers this time, so it would be smart to get there super early.

SXSW BBQ Brunch and Brands Noon–6pm • Secret location • Must request invite and get confirmation Free BBQ and networking.

Startup Sunday with SendGrid & Friends Noon–6pm • Key Bar, 617 West 6th Street • RSVP requested “Startup shenanigans, live music & open bar all day.” Mimosas and samosas available when doors open at noon!

On Vinyl & Human Influence Present: South Austin Local Showcase 3–7pm • Location TBA • RSVP required / suggested donation (see below) Sponsored by Austin Eastciders, Guayakí Yerba Mate, Tito's Handmade Vodka, and Deep Eddy Vodka. Local line-up featuring Rachel Lieberman, Torino Black, The Mammoths, Blynd Birds, Coattails, SMiiLE, and Swimming with Bears. This is a benefit for SIMS Foundation, and people who donate to the GoFundMe get in automatically. Or, if you’re a local Austin artist, you can apply for an invite here.

Splash Presents: Magic Hours 7pm–1am • Sidewinder, 715 Red River St. • RSVP required Music by Glassio, Rick Feds, Miears, Yellow Shoots, Mobley, and The Disfunction.

SocialHaus SXSW 2018 8:30pm–?? • “Justine's Secret House,” 1303 East 7th St. • Must request invite and be confirmed “An exclusive night of secret art exhibitions, live installations, and performances.” Probably lots of free stuff.

Amplify Philly House Party 9:30pm–2am • Pour Choices, 401 East 6th St. • RSVP required; technically badge-only Open bar til midnight, plus music by DJ Jazzy Jeff, DJ Aktive, and Fuegomayo. This is an official event so it might be tough to get into without a badge.

Monday, March 12

Do512 and COVERT CURIOSITY Present Strange Brew 7 1pm–late • Hotel Vegas, 1500 E. 6th Street • RSVP required Big slate of bands and possibly some free/cheap drinks from sponsors Deep Eddy Vodka and Karbach Brewing.

A.V. Club and The Onion Present: Just Another Manic Monday 3:30–11:30pm • Mohawk, 912 Red River St. • RSVP required Nice lineup featuring Superchunk, Wye Oak, Bully, Shamir, and others. Possibly some free drinks from sponsor Wild Turkey American Honey. Badges and wristbands get priority.

Lafayette Live Crawfish Boil @ SXSW: A True Cajun Experience 5–9pm • C-Boy's Heart & Soul, 2008 South Congress Ave. • RSVP requested Free Cajun food while it lasts, one free drink, live music, and networking.

Big Fat VR Party 6–9pm • Capital Factory, 701 Brazos St. • RSVP requested VR, booze, and food.

Amplify Philly Music Showcase 8pm–2am • Pour Choices, 401 East 6th St. • RSVP required; technically badge-only Official SX showcase with music by Low Cut Connie, Son Little, Vita & The Woolf, and others. This is an official event so it might be tough to get into without a badge, but we’ve heard it’s possible if you get there early.

Tuesday, March 13

The ShipStation Lounge Experience Noon–8pm • Vuka Gather, 411 West Monroe St. • RSVP requested Free food and drinks, networking, and panels. Open bar and music 6–8pm.

She Shreds Noon–8pm • Kinda Tropical, 3501 East 7th Street • RSVP requested Music by La Luz, Speedy Ortiz, Hinds, Shamir, and others.

SXSW Boot Scootin’ BBQ 5–8pm • The Vaughn, 310 Colorado St. • RSVP required; must request invite and get confirmation Live country music, Salt Lick BBQ, and an open bar.

Media Temple's SXSW Interactive Bash 8:30pm–late • Stubb's BBQ, 801 Red River St. • RSVP required (see below) Giant official closing party for SX Interactive. Usually very tough to get into without a badge, but the site suggests that it’s possible: “entry is first-come, first-served but priority is given to SXSW Interactive and Platinum badge holders.” RSVPing also gives you a chance to win VIP access and a meet-and-greet with the closing act.

Wednesday, March 14

Day Drinking with DistroKid at SXSW 2018 1–3pm • The Jackalope, 404 E 6th St. • RSVP requested (but probably not required) Possibly some free drinks at this music industry meetup.

CxBB — Celebration by Beardbrand 6–11pm • The Rattle Inn, 610 Nueces St. • RSVP requested Live music and free drinks while they last.

The Sound Release SXSW 8:30pm–2am • Peckerheads, 402 East 6th Street • RSVP requested Emerging hip-hop acts.

Thursday, March 15

Dutch Impact Party SXSW 2018 Noon–6pm • Waller Ballroom, 700 East 6th Street • RSVP required Free drinks and food for “delegates”; we’re not really sure that that means, but last year you got a drink ticket and a tasty grilled sandwich with your RSVP. Also good music and nice people. Fun times!

SMILF at The Showtime House 1–7pm • Clive Bar, 609 Davis St. • RSVP required Day show lineup includes US Girls (2pm), Stella Donnelly (3pm), Natalie Prass (4pm), Sudan Archives (5pm), and Sunflower Bean (6pm). The night party runs from 9pm–midnight and is very likely badge-only.

Precision, Olympus & For Spite present Turn Your Camera On 1:30–7pm • Precision Camera & Video, 2438 W. Anderson Ln., Suite B4 • RSVP requested Good local bands and free drinks provided by Tito's Handmade Vodka and Big Swig. This is a 10-minute drive north of downtown so plan to get a ride.

Brew Music 5–8pm • Zilker Brewing Company, 1701 East 6th St. • RSVP requested Free beers for the first 100 people, followed by spirited discussions about synth music. We highly recommend Zilker’s Marco IPA, by the way.

South by South Wildfox Party 9pm–1am • Pop, 620 West 6th Street #1 • RSVP requested Open bar.

Friday, March 16

11A Records, Northern Spy Records and Wharf Cat Records Present: Romancing the Wax 11am–6pm • Hotel Vegas, 1500 East 6th St. • RSVP requested Music by Golden Dawn Arkestra, Odetta Hartman, A Place to Bury Strangers, and others.

Cinderblock's Block Party presented by Pacifico Noon–late • The Cabana, 5416 North FM 973 • RSVP required (paid ticket options available; see below) Free drinks at a mansion pool party, with performances by Rayland Baxter, David Ramirez, Medicine Man Revival, Mathew McNeal, Mitchell Ferguson, and Suzanna Choffel. It’s pretty deep east of Austin, so it may be wise to shell out the $10 for guaranteed admission (or $45 for VIP, which includes food and other perks).

Fun On the Run Tour Noon–?? • The ABGB, 1305 W. Oltorf St. • RSVP requested Day show at a cool venue south of downtown.

Cocoa Butter Radio LIVE at SXSW Noon–5pm • The Townsend, 718 Congress Ave. #100 • RSVP requested Live interviews followed by artist performances and showcasing DJs in between sets.

Beats x Beers Festival 4 Noon–8pm • Lone Star Hookahs, 301 Chicon St., Unit G • RSVP requested Music and fun surprises. More details TBA.

The Chi at The Showtime House 1–6pm • Clive Bar, 609 Davis St. • RSVP required Day show lineup includes Melo Makes Music (2pm), Air Credits (3pm), Knox Fortune (4pm), and Joey Purp (5pm). The night party runs from 8pm–midnight and is very likely badge-only.

4theculture Pop-Up Party 6–10pm • 1408 East 13th St. • RSVP required Free drinks, music, vendors. More details TBA.

Saturday, March 17

Do512 Presents: The Big One 11:30am–6pm • Barracuda, 611 East 7th Street • RSVP required Performances by Ron Gallo, Hinds, Michael Rault, Speedy Ortiz, and others. Beverages from Deep Eddy Vodka, Mike's Harder, Austin Eastciders, and Karbach Beer. This will get crazy as the day goes on so try to get there close to doors.

Hip Hop Weekly SX St. Patty Party Noon–5pm • 501 Brushy St. • RSVP requested Free green beer and jello shots. This one just might get rowdy.

You Made 4 It? Industry Panel & Artist Showcase Noon–6pm • 217 East 6th St. • RSVP required Hip-hop panels, performances, and free food. The organizers are also hosting an invite-only mansion party at a private location from 11pm–4am, so keep an eye out for more info on that.

Shameless at The Showtime House 1–7pm • Clive Bar, 609 Davis St. • RSVP required Day show lineup includes The Nude Party (2pm), Post Animal (3pm), Shamir (4pm), Tank and the Bangas (5pm), and WAVVES (6pm). Expect a pretty large crowd, seeing as how this is a pretty small venue on Music Saturday. The night party runs from 8pm–1am and is very likely badge-only.

Sunday, March 18

The Austin Puppy Party 2K18 Noon–4pm • Lustre Pearl, 94 Rainey St. • RSVP required Complimentary beverages (1 Tito’s Vodka drink ticket when you show the Bumble app on your phone), plus some pretty nice dog swag and, of course, puppies! Might not be as crazy as usual since they’re having it on the final Sunday of the fest this year.

[recentanimenews]

Virtual Crunchyroll Expo TIPS: How to Make the Most of the Weekend

  Crunchyroll recently revealed the full show schedule for Virtual Crunchyroll Expo 2020, which will light up the Internet with a packed lineup over the September 4-6 weekend. Definitely check it out and plan accordingly if you haven’t already! With so much going on over the course of just a few days—some of which is scheduled concurrently—you might be wondering how you’ll be able to experience it all without some serious screen management. 

  Thankfully, we have no shortage of experts involved in the event itself to turn to for some much-needed insider tips. If you find yourself torn between two panels, or trying to figure out when you could possibly fit in a solid hour of chill time at Yuzu’s Cat Café, consider this your strategy guide! 

    Getting the Most Out of V-CRX

  Throughout Virtual Crunchyroll Expo, everything from fan panels to special industry guests, and even concerts, will be available across four different stages: Crunchyroll Stage, Hime Stage, Yuzu Stage, and Sudachi Stage. And that’s just the Theater District! What are you, made of eyeballs? No worries, because V-CRX On Demand is here to save the day. Learn more about V-CRX On Demand and other insider tips to get the most out of the weekend, straight from the pros. 

  Mary Franklin, Head of Events

  At first glance, it might seem daunting that Virtual Crunchyroll Expo has four concurrent livestreams. To help you avoid missing amazing contente we created V-CRX On Demand. Once the show starts, fans can enter V-CRX On Demand through a portal in the Theater District. We’ll open the show with some content already pre-loaded there, then throughout the weekend content will be added after it has played in the streams. Almost all the weekend’s content will be available in V-CRX On Demand. Insider’s Tip: V-CRX On Demand runs 24 hours per day, from 10:00 am Pacific Friday, September 4 until 10:00 am Pacific Monday, September 7.

  While our headline guests and great programming deserve a lot of attention, don’t forget that Virtual Crunchyroll Expo has four districts to explore. One that’s worth extra time is the New Crunchy City Anime Arts District, with a curated selection of anime artists from a number of countries, many of whom ship anywhere. The Super Arcade District features exclusive galleries created just for V-CRX, plus free show giveaways, cosplay backgrounds, and a real live (virtual) kitten adoption café, Yuzu’s Cat Café.

  Adam Sheehan, Director of Events

  With so much programming, I recommend everyone look over the schedule in advance to determine what panels to watch as they premiere, as well as any conflicting panels to note for watching when it is added to V-CRX On Demand later that day. Oh, and don't miss watching Crunchyroll-Hime's Cosplay Cup live on Saturday night! Outside of that, I would encourage everyone to explore around the Virtual Crunchyroll Expo site to see everything there is to offer over the weekend. I'm betting they will find a surprise or two by doing this.

  Stacy Burt, Senior Marketing Manager

  Plan ahead! With so much to see right out of the gate on September 4, you'll want to make sure you're ready to fully enjoy the weekend. This means registering ahead of time and activating your badge before the convention starts (this will allow you to take part in activities like the Onyx Equinox scavenger hunt), planning your streaming schedule (and making room for breaks — I recommend some time in one of our Quiet Rooms for a moment of anime zen), and making a list of artists and exhibitors you want to check back on for show specials.

  Lauren Stevens, Events Manager

  The biggest key is probably planning ahead and checking out the website now. Just like your first time at a new convention, it’s helpful to get the lay of the land, and figure out where the panels, exhibitors, and artists are located. The schedule is packed and instead of long lines waiting for food, I can plan my con menu early, so I don’t miss a beat. Super Arcade is like the home to all extras, and who doesn’t love more stuff at an anime con? I can’t wait to see it all live.

  Ricky Resurreccion, Crunchyroll Expo Events Director

  The amount of V-CRX content and features can be overwhelming. Like being in a theme park for the first time, the best first step is to plan ahead. Once you have familiarized yourself with the schedule, have made plans for which activities and the panels you want to attend, be a power V-CRX attendee by accessing certain items directly. We have provided multiple areas in the site where fans can access direct links to specific activities: Use any of the four buttons of our STAGES to access a panel directly.  Want to watch panels you missed? We have provided two direct access points to the V-CRX On Demand area on the homepage and the site navigation bar. Need to check the schedule? Easy! We have a button in the middle of the homepage or a section in the nav bar for that.   

  Here's another cool tip—Make the companion app work for you. Once the app is released before the show, mark your favorite panel or the artists and exhibitors you wish to check out to your "FAVORITES." This will make it easier to revisit or re-access them!

    Enjoying the Unexpected

  All the planning in the world can’t keep you from missing out on something you didn’t even know you wanted in the first place. Virtual Crunchyroll Expo is a 24-hour experience—and on top of the Theater District there’s the Anime Arts District, Central Shopping District, and Super Arcade to visit—so there’s bound to be something that flies under the radar over the weekend. With that in mind, we turned to our insiders for some advice on catching those hidden gems you might have otherwise missed. 

  Mary Franklin, Head of Events

  There’s so much programming it’s easy to miss hidden gems. One of my personal favorites is a panel from Okitsugu Kado, who practices and teaches the traditional, ancient Japanese art of Mukimono, carving vegetables into decorative characters, dishes, and décor for the dining table. You’ll find Oki-san’s panel on the Yuzu Stage Friday, and then in the V-CRX On Demand section of the show after that.

  Another exclusive V-CRX feature that I’m eager to spend more time with on the show weekend is the V-CRX Gallery Tour Featuring MAPPA. With artwork from series like ZOMBIE LAND SAGA and The God of High School, as well as audio commentary from creators, this will be worth a much closer study than I’ve been able to give it so far!

  Adam Sheehan, Director of Events

  As I mentioned with encouraging exploring around the V-CRX website, there is a lot to enjoy.  I know fans are missing all that free schwag they would get at the Crunchyroll booth and other booths at cons so I would say they should be sure to check out the Virtual Schwag area in the Super Arcade district on the site to help alleviate the need for free stuff!

  Stacy Burt, Senior Marketing Manager

  For any K-pop fans out there, you won't want to miss the panel "K-pop and Anime: When Two Worlds Collide” on Friday, September 4 at 6:00pm PT on the Crunchyroll Stage. I can't give too much away, but there will be a few familiar faces making special appearances. 

For fellow artist alley patreons, the Anime Arts District is a must. Artists from around the world have been setting up their virtual booths (many you can check out now) and will be unveiling show specials during V-CRX. Remember to give artists you shop some love on social! 

  Lauren Stevens, Events Manager

  There’s definitely a lot going on at V-CRX, so it is a good thing it is three days! I’d make sure to check out the Super Arcade between panels. Between the galleries, Quiet Rooms, and Yuzu’s Cat Café, there’s a lot more stuff than just the ‘standard show floor.’ I’ve also been eagerly waiting to try out the Onyx Equinox Scavenger Hunt. Get the V-CRX app ready once it’s live before the show, then find all those codes!

  Ricky Resurreccion, Crunchyroll Expo Events Director

  While the main action happens on the main V-CRX website, play around with some of the cool functionalities of our V-CRX app (coming soon!). Aside from the Onyx Equinox Scavenger Hunt, another awesome app feature is the Crunchy Cam. It's essentially a selfie feature where users choose V-CRX stickers to apply on their photo. I like to keep memorabilia from cons I attend and this is a neat little feature that also serves as a nice souvenir from your V-CRX weekend.

  Locking in the Fun

  Beyond these tips, the only major thing to keep in mind is that you need to register! Doing so is totally free, so sign up on the official Virtual Crunchyroll Expo 2020 website today and start planning your jam-packed September 4-6 weekend. 

  By: news+feed@crunchyroll.com

[michaelfallcon]

The Very Best Of The 2018 Milan Coffee Festival

Italy is sometimes regarded as the final frontier for specialty coffee, and at the first Milan Coffee Festival all signs pointed to progress—and a promising way forward for coffee culture in the nation that helped create it. Italy’s decades-old espresso cultural laws and general unwillingness to change the flavor, preparation, and most restrictively the price of coffee are all directly under challenge by a new generation of entrepreneurs and globe-traveling coffee lovers. Contradicting this reputation, there is a rapidly growing group of coffee professionals of all ages and backgrounds dedicated to increasing quality and shaking up cultural coffee standards in Italy. It’s a really exciting time to be here to see it all unfold.

Change is in the air here, proliferating and circling throughout the industry for years, and now it’s been given a consumer-friendly platform in the form of this new festival. The consensus is that the Milan Coffee Festival was able to provide a capsule snapshot of today’s inspiring new movement and an opportunity for the public to explore the new Italian specialty coffee in an approachable format.

The event stayed busy across all three days, in a notably smaller space than, say, the juggernaut London Coffee Festival (also hosted by Allegra Events), yet there was plenty to explore and experience. Here are a few people and moments that left a strong impression.

Pasta, of course.

Mattia Angius and Martina Miccione of Milan’s slow food bistro and natural wine bar, Tipografia Alimentare, concocted one the most glorious surprises of the weekend with two of the greatest things on the planet: ravioli and broth. They were hand making delicious ravioli on the spot and cooking them in a bowl of salted water with an espresso machine steam wand. For the broth, Angius was dosing a tamping his dried vegetable mix into a portafilter, then pulling broth shots from the group. “It took a week to dial in the grind size particles of the vegetables for the perfect extraction,” he said. A splash of the wine they brought along to pair made it an ideal unexpected aperitivo.

Unique Brews

There were some funky and fruity beans in almost every booth at the festival. But one coffee that truly stood out was an Ugandan coffee roasted by World Roasting Champion, Rubens Gardelli of Gardelli Specialty Coffee in Emilia Romagna. The brew was crafted by Piemontese barista Serena Gentile.

Ugandans use the Bantu word “Mzungu” when referring to someone of European descent, and for whatever inspired reason—perhaps a bit of self-satire—Gardelli decided to name the coffee “Mzungu Project.” Besides the coffee being made with rare and indigenous coffee varieties, it is also processed in a proprietary “secret” fermentation technique called the “Gardelli Natural Process.” After some research, it’s not really clear what that actually implies, however one thing for sure: it made for a shocking and unusual cup! Think layers of freshly toasted cocoa nibs, tepache (fermented pineapple), marjoram, and cherry mostarda arriving one after the other in delirious deliberation.

Women In Coffee

A long overdue focus on the women in the Italian coffee industry as a major component of the Milan Coffee Festival. This came as some relief to the many festival participants that were actively raising awareness around the lack of diversity in the European Coffee Symposium.

On Saturday in “The Lab,” a full crowd was focused attentively on a panel of eight women, roles ranging from barista trainers to CEOs, who were speaking about their personal experiences and discussing the landscape, challenges, issues, and opportunities for women working in coffee in Italy. The panel was organized and led by Valentina Palange of Specialty Pal. “Times are changing in Italy,” Paling told the crowd. “The barista woman is no longer wanted at times for her physical appearance but rather for her professional skills.” She went onto explain that there are still huge obstacles in the workplace including not being trusted to handle technical aspects, employee training, and machine maintenance.  

A common discussion theme was dismissal of opinion or ability from customers or coworkers. Jessica Sartiani, panelist from Florence, emphasized this important point, “I have always felt that I had to fight for my place, unfortunately often having to be aggressive to avoid being walked on.” She concluded, “I would like to see skilled woman treated as they deserve and not forced into being some kind of warrior to prove your ability.”

Specialty Pal

Valentina Palange and Luca Rinaldi of Specialty Pal.

Being the first festival in Milan, it was especially important to involve the community in grassroots advertising and by involving social media influencers that are passionate about coffee. Two of the most active participants in the organization of the festival were the aforementioned Valentina Palange and Luca Rinaldi of the coffee culture blog, Specialty Pal. Coming from a background of personal coffee research and passion to learn more, they were able to rally the whole community together for this event. They spent weeks before the event visiting almost every cafe and participant to deliver flyers and spread the word with a personal touch. Rinaldi was also the official photographer of the festival, and Palange hosted the Latte Art Live booth throughout the weekend.

Fusillo Lab

Another huge contributor and activator of the festival was Michael Gardenia of Fusillo Lab. During the month leading up to the festival, Gardenia hosted a series of coffee awareness events featuring previous coffee champions and current educators like Francesco Sanapo and Matteo Beluffi. As content creators, the Fusillo Lab events were a collaboration with the festival that were geared towards bloggers and journalists to offer a hands-on experience in the world of specialty coffee.

On Sunday, Gardenia was present at the festival in a pop up Fusillo Cafe. He collaborated with local coffee roaster, Peacocks Coffee, to make a private label Fusillo Coffee bag with a blank frame in which guests could create their own label design for the coffee bag and submit it to a contest to win a lot of splendid swag.

New(ish) Equipment in the Wild

Any Italian coffee festival worth its salt should be awash with exciting coffee gear, and Milan Coffee Festival did not disappoint. It was good to meet face to face with a couple of unfamiliar pieces of equipment!

One machine that was exciting to play with was the Dalla Corte XT. Simone Guidi, coffee roaster at La Sosta in Florence, walked me through some of the wild features that really allow the barista to dig into extraction parameters. Since the machine has independent boiler for each group, there is an easy interface that allows to maintain three groups at three different temperatures.

It also comes equipped with a patented flowmeter technology that provides extremely accurate results. You press a button on a screen above the grouphead when the first droplet of espresso arrives on the portafilter spout, and that is when the flowmeter starts to count rotations. We pulled 10 shots and weighed them afterwards and they were all spot on.

Guidi then started unscrewing a mini allen wrench key from the DC tamper that you can use as a dial to adjust each group heads flow rate live during extraction.

The machine can also communicate with the DC grinder to adjust coffee grind size automatically if the machine detects fluctuations in a profile that you can program into the machine.

No doubt it demonstrates stunning technology, but I wonder if it underwent Paolo Dalla Cortes crowbar test.

Meanwhile, the Bugan Coffee Lab from the nearby city of Bergamo went all out on their booth that was stationed directly across from the CMx stage. Portafilter and gasket ring toss, Panettone from their wholesale customers at Bologna’s cafe and artisan bakery Forno Brisa, daring cold brew in a flask, and latte art throwdowns with Dritan Alsela were just some of the highlights during their residency. They were also seen enthusiastically slinging spro on a Modbar AV (or Ah-Voo as they say here), and grinding coffee for filter with a Ceado E37Z Hero grinder (roughly $6,500 USD). Through the lab and field trials that Bugan Coffee Lab has been conducting with Ceado, head roaster Gian Andrea Sala described it as being very versatile and a unique grinder.

50’s Throwback

One showstopper on the show floor was FAEMA’s completely functional Saturno lever machine. Only a few units of the machine were originally manufactured in 1950, and this one was brought into working order for the festival by espresso machine collector and curator of the MUMAC museum, Enrico Maltoni.

This was the first FAEMA that used the design of the double boiler to lower the machine body and to give the coffee machine a better aesthetic, and was the first coffee machine with patent “pistol taps.”

“Everybody loved it!” Maltoni said. “The Saturno represents a piece of history not only for FAEMA but also in the coffee machine industry.”

CMx Italia

Carlos Alvarado (left).

The groundbreaking competition series Coffee Masters debuted the CMx Italia contest at the Milan Coffee Festival. After passing through 7 disciplines during the competition, Matteo Pavoni of Peacocks Coffee Roasters came in second place to CMx champion, Carlos Alvarado of Checchi Downtown in Brescia. Carlos is originally from El Salvador and has been working in coffee since he arrived in Italy. From high paced traffic at a highway side Autogrill, to working at boutique specialty coffee shops in the center of Milan, there’s not much he can’t handle behind the bar. Carlos will be moving on to compete in the Coffee Masters at the 2019 London Coffee Festival. Bravo Carlos!

Alexander Gable (@mrgable) is a freelance journalist based in Milan. A regular contributor to Sprudge Wine, this is Alexander Gable’s first article for Sprudge.

The post The Very Best Of The 2018 Milan Coffee Festival appeared first on Sprudge.

The Very Best Of The 2018 Milan Coffee Festival published first on https://medium.com/@LinLinCoffee

[epchapman89]

The Very Best Of The 2018 Milan Coffee Festival

Italy is sometimes regarded as the final frontier for specialty coffee, and at the first Milan Coffee Festival all signs pointed to progress—and a promising way forward for coffee culture in the nation that helped create it. Italy’s decades-old espresso cultural laws and general unwillingness to change the flavor, preparation, and most restrictively the price of coffee are all directly under challenge by a new generation of entrepreneurs and globe-traveling coffee lovers. Contradicting this reputation, there is a rapidly growing group of coffee professionals of all ages and backgrounds dedicated to increasing quality and shaking up cultural coffee standards in Italy. It’s a really exciting time to be here to see it all unfold.

Change is in the air here, proliferating and circling throughout the industry for years, and now it’s been given a consumer-friendly platform in the form of this new festival. The consensus is that the Milan Coffee Festival was able to provide a capsule snapshot of today’s inspiring new movement and an opportunity for the public to explore the new Italian specialty coffee in an approachable format.

The event stayed busy across all three days, in a notably smaller space than, say, the juggernaut London Coffee Festival (also hosted by Allegra Events), yet there was plenty to explore and experience. Here are a few people and moments that left a strong impression.

Pasta, of course.

Mattia Angius and Martina Miccione of Milan’s slow food bistro and natural wine bar, Tipografia Alimentare, concocted one the most glorious surprises of the weekend with two of the greatest things on the planet: ravioli and broth. They were hand making delicious ravioli on the spot and cooking them in a bowl of salted water with an espresso machine steam wand. For the broth, Angius was dosing a tamping his dried vegetable mix into a portafilter, then pulling broth shots from the group. “It took a week to dial in the grind size particles of the vegetables for the perfect extraction,” he said. A splash of the wine they brought along to pair made it an ideal unexpected aperitivo.

Unique Brews

There were some funky and fruity beans in almost every booth at the festival. But one coffee that truly stood out was an Ugandan coffee roasted by World Roasting Champion, Rubens Gardelli of Gardelli Specialty Coffee in Emilia Romagna. The brew was crafted by Piemontese barista Serena Gentile.

Ugandans use the Bantu word “Mzungu” when referring to someone of European descent, and for whatever inspired reason—perhaps a bit of self-satire—Gardelli decided to name the coffee “Mzungu Project.” Besides the coffee being made with rare and indigenous coffee varieties, it is also processed in a proprietary “secret” fermentation technique called the “Gardelli Natural Process.” After some research, it’s not really clear what that actually implies, however one thing for sure: it made for a shocking and unusual cup! Think layers of freshly toasted cocoa nibs, tepache (fermented pineapple), marjoram, and cherry mostarda arriving one after the other in delirious deliberation.

Women In Coffee

A long overdue focus on the women in the Italian coffee industry as a major component of the Milan Coffee Festival. This came as some relief to the many festival participants that were actively raising awareness around the lack of diversity in the European Coffee Symposium.

On Saturday in “The Lab,” a full crowd was focused attentively on a panel of eight women, roles ranging from barista trainers to CEOs, who were speaking about their personal experiences and discussing the landscape, challenges, issues, and opportunities for women working in coffee in Italy. The panel was organized and led by Valentina Palange of Specialty Pal. “Times are changing in Italy,” Paling told the crowd. “The barista woman is no longer wanted at times for her physical appearance but rather for her professional skills.” She went onto explain that there are still huge obstacles in the workplace including not being trusted to handle technical aspects, employee training, and machine maintenance.  

A common discussion theme was dismissal of opinion or ability from customers or coworkers. Jessica Sartiani, panelist from Florence, emphasized this important point, “I have always felt that I had to fight for my place, unfortunately often having to be aggressive to avoid being walked on.” She concluded, “I would like to see skilled woman treated as they deserve and not forced into being some kind of warrior to prove your ability.”

Specialty Pal

Valentina Palange and Luca Rinaldi of Specialty Pal.

Being the first festival in Milan, it was especially important to involve the community in grassroots advertising and by involving social media influencers that are passionate about coffee. Two of the most active participants in the organization of the festival were the aforementioned Valentina Palange and Luca Rinaldi of the coffee culture blog, Specialty Pal. Coming from a background of personal coffee research and passion to learn more, they were able to rally the whole community together for this event. They spent weeks before the event visiting almost every cafe and participant to deliver flyers and spread the word with a personal touch. Rinaldi was also the official photographer of the festival, and Palange hosted the Latte Art Live booth throughout the weekend.

Fusillo Lab

Another huge contributor and activator of the festival was Michael Gardenia of Fusillo Lab. During the month leading up to the festival, Gardenia hosted a series of coffee awareness events featuring previous coffee champions and current educators like Francesco Sanapo and Matteo Beluffi. As content creators, the Fusillo Lab events were a collaboration with the festival that were geared towards bloggers and journalists to offer a hands-on experience in the world of specialty coffee.

On Sunday, Gardenia was present at the festival in a pop up Fusillo Cafe. He collaborated with local coffee roaster, Peacocks Coffee, to make a private label Fusillo Coffee bag with a blank frame in which guests could create their own label design for the coffee bag and submit it to a contest to win a lot of splendid swag.

New(ish) Equipment in the Wild

Any Italian coffee festival worth its salt should be awash with exciting coffee gear, and Milan Coffee Festival did not disappoint. It was good to meet face to face with a couple of unfamiliar pieces of equipment!

One machine that was exciting to play with was the Dalla Corte XT. Simone Guidi, coffee roaster at La Sosta in Florence, walked me through some of the wild features that really allow the barista to dig into extraction parameters. Since the machine has independent boiler for each group, there is an easy interface that allows to maintain three groups at three different temperatures.

It also comes equipped with a patented flowmeter technology that provides extremely accurate results. You press a button on a screen above the grouphead when the first droplet of espresso arrives on the portafilter spout, and that is when the flowmeter starts to count rotations. We pulled 10 shots and weighed them afterwards and they were all spot on.

Guidi then started unscrewing a mini allen wrench key from the DC tamper that you can use as a dial to adjust each group heads flow rate live during extraction.

The machine can also communicate with the DC grinder to adjust coffee grind size automatically if the machine detects fluctuations in a profile that you can program into the machine.

No doubt it demonstrates stunning technology, but I wonder if it underwent Paolo Dalla Cortes crowbar test.

Meanwhile, the Bugan Coffee Lab from the nearby city of Bergamo went all out on their booth that was stationed directly across from the CMx stage. Portafilter and gasket ring toss, Panettone from their wholesale customers at Bologna’s cafe and artisan bakery Forno Brisa, daring cold brew in a flask, and latte art throwdowns with Dritan Alsela were just some of the highlights during their residency. They were also seen enthusiastically slinging spro on a Modbar AV (or Ah-Voo as they say here), and grinding coffee for filter with a Ceado E37Z Hero grinder (roughly $6,500 USD). Through the lab and field trials that Bugan Coffee Lab has been conducting with Ceado, head roaster Gian Andrea Sala described it as being very versatile and a unique grinder.

50’s Throwback

One showstopper on the show floor was FAEMA’s completely functional Saturno lever machine. Only a few units of the machine were originally manufactured in 1950, and this one was brought into working order for the festival by espresso machine collector and curator of the MUMAC museum, Enrico Maltoni.

This was the first FAEMA that used the design of the double boiler to lower the machine body and to give the coffee machine a better aesthetic, and was the first coffee machine with patent “pistol taps.”

“Everybody loved it!” Maltoni said. “The Saturno represents a piece of history not only for FAEMA but also in the coffee machine industry.”

CMx Italia

Carlos Alvarado (left).

The groundbreaking competition series Coffee Masters debuted the CMx Italia contest at the Milan Coffee Festival. After passing through 7 disciplines during the competition, Matteo Pavoni of Peacocks Coffee Roasters came in second place to CMx champion, Carlos Alvarado of Checchi Downtown in Brescia. Carlos is originally from El Salvador and has been working in coffee since he arrived in Italy. From high paced traffic at a highway side Autogrill, to working at boutique specialty coffee shops in the center of Milan, there’s not much he can’t handle behind the bar. Carlos will be moving on to compete in the Coffee Masters at the 2019 London Coffee Festival. Bravo Carlos!

Alexander Gable (@mrgable) is a freelance journalist based in Milan. A regular contributor to Sprudge Wine, this is Alexander Gable’s first article for Sprudge.

The post The Very Best Of The 2018 Milan Coffee Festival appeared first on Sprudge.

seen 1st on http://sprudge.com

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Apollo Pennsylvania Cheap car insurance quotes zip 15613

"Apollo Pennsylvania Cheap car insurance quotes zip 15613

Apollo Pennsylvania Cheap car insurance quotes zip 15613

BEST ANSWER:  Try this site where you can compare quotes: : http://averageinsurancecosts.xyz/index.html?src=tumblr 

RELATED QUESTIONS: 

How do I find past articles. The 1 about cheap car insurance spacificaly?

my email account is freeme1969@yahoo.com

Does where you live affect your car insurance price even if you're only third party/fire/theft?

I recently moved to a city from the countryside. I guess I need to inform my car insurance company of this, but I'm worried they'll want some more money off me and tbh I don't have any whatsoever! Do you think they will? I only have third party/fire/theft cover.""

How much can Insurer charge me to SALVAGE my OWN CAR?!?!?!?

Some background first, i was hit from behind whilst stationary in traffic the other week by a works van. the damage was not too sever that i couldn't limp back home (sore and car bashed but still alive) got the other drivers details at the scene and reported the incident to my insurance company. As the accident was not my fault my insurer passed this to their dedicated Non-Fault (NF) accident claim company (i'll not name them at the moment) who in turn provided me with a hire car and collected my car to have it assessed for REPAIR. At no point was writing off the car mentioned. Then i got a call from the garage dealing with my car (NF appointed) a week later telling me of the damage and repair value and that the engineers working for the NF, different company again, were going to deem the car a write off, CAT D as i later found out. Now the fun part - the engineers have made an offer for settlement and to write off of my car, which is a good 500 below what is would cost to replace it with a like-for-like car in my local area (replace cost circa 2.8k-3k) they are adamant they will not repair my car even though the repairs would cost LESS than the write off - because the repair is too close to the market value and they can make a killing on salvage apparently. so fighting this out at the moment. NOW FOR THE QUESTION: They have advised me that should i wish to keep the car after they write it off (which i want to avoid if at all possible) i can accept the settlement and pay them a salvage fee to retain my car. This i understand as technically they buy my car when they write it off and then i have to buy it back. The problem is that they have a flat 30% !!! salvage fee which on their offer would almost negate me being able to get the repairs covered. What i really need to know is if anyone else has been in this position and if there is a maximum salvage fee they can charge - bearing in mind that this is my car to start with - and if there is any way i can make them drop this percentage. Forcing them to drop the percentage might not only let me repair the car after retaining but might also swing in favour of repair instead of write off if they cannot justify such a big payout for themselves. Any help here would be appreciated fast as i'm still bouncing between the parties here to get this resolved. In case your wondering the damage constitutes a bumper rear panel and a kink in the boot floor - VERY repairable.""

Motorcycles and California ?

Ok so im almost 18. I wanna get a motorcycle when I can afford it. How much would u say I'd be looking at for good insurance and the bike. I want a decent bike but nothing to fancy because of my price range. I wanna also know the process to getting a motorcycle licence

Why is car insurance so high?

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How long will my car insurance company take to pay out and how much will I get?

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Car insurance that covers young people driving other cars?

I'm looking to buy car insurance as my renewal is due on the 30th of Nov, Does anyone know of any insurance companies that will let you drive other people's cars with the owners permission? I'm 20 at the moment and I'm aware that most insurers will only cover 25+ for this benefit but I want to know if there are any companies that offer this to younger people under 21, also if anyone knows of any companies that cover over 21 year olds this will also be helpful as I'm turning 21 during the course of the policy can anyone help me with this?""

Car insurance price comparison?

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What is the right affordable car insurance to purchase in NEW JERSEY?

Hi, I was looking to buy a car insurance policy. I currently have a company but wanted to drop them due to being overpriced. The only problem is that i don't have a driver license nor have i ever had one. I was able to finance a car off the lot but it wasn't for me. I brought it for my grandson. He has a driver license and is the only primary driver of the car. Being as though I never had a license most companies won't accept it and limits me from getting a cheaper policy. He is about to turn 18 next week. So is there any car insurance companies that will accept that i don't have a license and let me get a policy with him being the primary driver of the car. Thanks!!""

Do insurance companies rate based on points or violations??

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How to get lower car insurance ?

I'm 23 and car insurance companies want between $300 - $800 for car insurance because I'm not 25 yet. I refuse to pay that much. Is there anything else I can do .

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Car insurance for under 3k?

Hi, im 18 and im trying to find car insurance for under 3k and pay it off monthly. Im getting quotes like 5-6 grand, the comparison sites are a load of rubbish as their saying way ...show more""

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New Insurance?

Hey. I'm 16 and male and I am getting my license in about a week. I know that I have to have insurance to drive alone in the family car. I just would like an estimate on how much insurance would cost. I am being added to my mom's insurance through Allstate, with a family car. Just until I have enough money to get my own. I know it isn't the same price as hers but I know its up there. If anyone can help me out on anything that would be great.""

Medical insurance?

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in the state of texas

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Hi, Im saving up to buy my first car and as it may be used for some fairly long commuting i was wondering what the insurance would cost, i will be shortly taking a driving test and so this would be useful information, as to help me save up the funds in order to buy the car and insure it, the car costs on average 8.995, but there have been cheaper models that are 08,09 etc so what would be a reasonable price for a new shape fiesta edge or style. Thanks 10- points today for the best answer....""

Will I be covered under my moms car insurance?

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I am 16 and just got my license and I am wondering how much insurance would cost for a 1994 Mitsubishi 3000GT?

I live in Illinois and I already own the car. My parents are saying that the insurance is going to be to much to pay for. How much do you think it will cost per month?

Apollo Pennsylvania Cheap car insurance quotes zip 15613

Apollo Pennsylvania Cheap car insurance quotes zip 15613

Does your car insurance go up if you had an accident falling asleep at the wheel?

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How much would it cost to have insurance on your license?

I live in Washington state. I was wondering how much insurance would cost if it covered my licenance so i can drive any vehicle.

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""What happens to a person who passes away and has no life insurance, money or family that can help?""

I know a lady in extremely poor health. She has no insurance, no savings, house, etc. She has 1 son who is 28 but can't hold a job longer than 2 to 3 weeks at best and expects mom to help him with everything. She has 1 living brother who lives far away from here and doesn't talk to her because he doesn't agree with the way she allows her son to drain her of everything. My question is--if she would pass away, who would be responsible for her burial? How would it be paid for? Her son doesn't even own a car. He drives hers and it isn't paid for yet. This lady rents a room and only owns a bed, chair and lamp. Not much to sell!!!! Does anyone know what happens in a case like this? This is in the state of Iowa.""

Which car would be cheaper on insurance? PLEASE help!!!!!!!!?

im 16 and am wondering wich one would be cheaper for car insurance and by how much a white 93 civic hb or a red 94 integra gs

""Im 16 and i want to get a R6, i want to know how much it would cost for insurance?""

I live in the U.S, Florida and i am taking the MSF course.""

Car insurance help for a 17 year old first year driver?

I'm looking to spend 3000/4000 pounds on either a Golf 2006 model, ford focus, audi a3 2006 model or a bmw 1 series. How much am i looking at for the annual insurance for anyway of these cars being a first year driver?""

Can I get health insurance for $60 a month?

I am a 23 year old female, full time student. I have no health problems, but need health insurance. I need office visits for a small copay ($30 or so). I can't find anything.""

Cheapest method for car insurance for 17 year old male?

Cheapest method for car insurance for 17 year old male?

Best auto insurance company for young adults?

So after working hard in college and multiple internships, I am going to graduate college in three years and best of all, managed to score an incredible job with Boeing aerospace division in this toilet of an economy. I even managed to use most of my savings to buy an apartment. However, after all this, I realized I was missing a crucial thing. A car(i live far from work). I only drove in my highschool years, so I am completely oblivious when it comes to insurance rates and what not. So my questions are as follow: 1.Is it better to have an older car or newer car as far as premium amounts go? I used to fix cars with another mechanic, so im not worried about an older car breaking down. 2. I am 20 years old, in your experience, what company is the best for young adults? I have no criminal records and no accidents from my highschool years. 3. How much insurance should I buy? In other words, should i just buy coverage for the other person if i hit someone, or should I buy coverage for my own car as well? 4. Just generally, in what range should I expect to pay? Just curious, I have to get it whether I like it or not. 5. Finally, any good tips on bartering with the insurance company to get a lower premium? You dont have to answer all the questions, feel free to just answer one, any help is appreciated!""

Can i collect disability insurance?

Can i collect disability insurance? i was shot when i was 18 in the ankle and the bullit is stuck between the bone in my ankle. i have worked for a company for 10 years and quit my job two years ago to start my own business. but now as im getting older i can't stand on my leg without experiencing pain or climb up and down things like i used too can i collect disability insurance?

Estimated Insurance Costs for Pest Control Business?

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Average cost of utilities in a 2 bedroom house in southern indiana?

I am moving into my first home and have no idea how much its going to cost. Its a 2 bedroom with a basement. There are 2 and a half of us moving in (2 year old son). I know for a fact the cost of my cell phone bill and my car insurance and gas but don't know how much to budget for anything else. Please help?

How much does your teen's (19 y.o.) car insurance cost?

My dad's been footing the bill for my car insurance the past few years. Now that I've been driving for a while and got an internship, he wants me to pay. I'm not complaining, but I'm just want to compare how much you pay for your insurance (if you're a teen) or how much you pay for your teen. Also, I've not been involved in any accidents at all.. and no tickets as well, including parking tickets. For three vehicles and a travel trailer, my portion of the insurance is about 55% of the entire bill with a brand new car on the list.""

Does online auto insurance quote comparison sites work?

Does online auto insurance quote comparison sites work?

Is it possible to cancel my car insurance?

I am a new driver and I have to pay around $135 a month. I am a guy by the way so this may be why it is so high. I have a job, but it's part time and doesn't pay well. I don't plan on driving the car often, just to school and work only 2-3 days a week and taking the bus the other days. I also do not plan on driving in the winter months. Is it possible to cancel my insurance while keeping my license from Dec. to March? My policy is under my parents and we have an extra car that just sits in the garage and it's the one I drive. Also, the insurance people said I could wait until January to lower my insurance rate to $110. I like the idea, but I don't want to wait hehe. Can I cancel my insurance then return to it a couple months later?""

Where can I go for the best and cheapest classic car insurance?

We have a 1965 classic mustang and want to insure it for it's restored value.

Health Insurance for 18 going to 19 year old?

My boyfriend is currently 18 years old. In January he will turn 19. He has no health insurance.We live in Texas. He's currently working/has his own income but still lives in his grandma's home. He started working making roughly about 250-300 every week, this has however only been for half the year before he was only making minimum wage. Should he get insurance from where he works? Or can he qualify for Medicaid or something of that sort? How does insurance work when you move out also?? Who qualifies for Medicaid? How? We're honestly clueless about all this, and no one has given us information. I've tried doing online research but it's all confusing.. I was hoping someone would help me out. Anything will help. Thank you.""

Does it matter if you tell the insurance company?

that you are keeping your vehicle at 'X' address instead of your real address which is 'Y' address. Reason being that X is a way cheaper premuim than my Y premium. And its only for TPO insurance. Thanks

Car insurance for my daughter?

my 17 year old daughter wants to learn to drive in my car (citroen c3 2059plate) would anybody have an idea of how much it may cost me ! or does it pay to make her wait untill she has passed ? and any ideas on how much if she does pass.. ty .....

How much would insurance be for a 17 year old girl driving a 2003 350z?

how much would insurance be for a 17 year old female driver...for a 2003 nissan 350z.

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I'm in the state of IL and I just moved here so I don't know their laws too well. I got pulled over a few days ago which really pissed me off because I make sure to do absolutely nothing wrong so I don't have to deal with cops. Well I got pulled over because my front license plate was in my front window instead of screwed to the front of my car (it won't fit there on my vehicle and where I come from you don't even need a front one). Pretty much the cop just wanted to waste time because he was bored....this is why i really dislike cops because I did nothing wrong and someone ran a stop sign right in front of me! lol Well anyway I had no insurance on the car unfortunately. I don't need a lecture because I know I have to have insurance. So he kept my drivers license and set up a court date for me. I'm getting car insurance this Friday. I've heard 2 different things. One is that as long as I get insurance before my court date nothing at all will probably happen. Another person and the cop said that I had to prove I had insurance the day I got pulled over or I could be fined or whatever. Does anyone know what penalties I face if I have insurance when I show up to court? Can my license be taken away? The car isn't even in my name if that matters.

Moped/Scooter insurance???

Hi everyone. How much would it cost for me to be insured on this bike? http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/125cc-125-cc-Scooter-Moped-Sport-Learner-Legal_W0QQitemZ200232549719QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item200232549719&_trkparms=39%3A1|65%3A7&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14.l1308 I am 19 years old and have a provisional driving licence. (I'm just using that bike as an example but that is the size engine I want as I'm going to be traveling quite far to work and is working out a fortune for bus fair). I'm new to this so if you need more information about me or anything else please say. Thanks xx

Double Health Insurance Coverage?

I was recently laid off and offered a severance package that included continuation of full health insurance coverage for 6 months for me and my spouse; I will begin another job which offers health insurance; can I be enrolled in both plans under my name? and What happens with pre-existing conditions?

Apollo Pennsylvania Cheap car insurance quotes zip 15613

Apollo Pennsylvania Cheap car insurance quotes zip 15613

How much will my Car insurance go up?

I hit a car in Los Angeles and I have State Farm. The guy I hit drives a range rover and all I did was scratch his driver's side door. The body shop wants $1200 to repaint the door, which I think is insane. I would pay cash, but $1200 is a lot of money. Does State Farm have accident forgiveness, or will my premium go up if I claim this on my insurance?""

How much will I have to for car insurance?

I'm 19 and I just got my permit. So in 6 months I will have my license. By then, I will have car. Which insurance will be cheapest and how much would I have to pay a month? I know nobody can put an exact price on it, but maybe an estimation?""

Insurance for teen when borrowing parents car?

My parents and i are very confused on whether I need to put on my parents insurance policy since i am technically borrowing their car. All of the people my parents have talked to have said that i don't and that they never did for their kids and it was fine. When my mom called about my sister they told her that she HAD to be put on their policy and that I could not receive my license until I was put on the policy. I am 16 and my sister is 18 and it would cost around $750 per month more to insure us. Do we need it if we are borrowing my parents car? Thanks:)

As of next year will all cars older than 7 years have their tax and insurance costs doubled?

A friend of mine told me today that as of next year all cars over seven years old will incur a sharp rise in their tax and insurance costs. he said that they would double. I understand this may happen with tax but it doesnt ring true for insurance. could anybody tell me if he is right or whether he has his wires crossed.

Cheap car to insure?

Let's work on a budget for a car of 10,000. I'd like a car newer than 2004, so I'm more than happy to have a second hand /used car. I'm looking for something a little bit more on the luxurious side of things, rather than the stereotypical first car (Clio, Corsa, Fiesta etc). UK models only! What cars are fitting my brief, and have cheap insurance for a 17 year old male. I know insurance is far from cheap nowadays, but I'm asking for the cheapest.""

Insured car but driver not on insurance?

I have liability insurance on my car but the person driving my car was not on the insurance and they rearended someone .... what can happen and will the insurance company pay or am I responsible?

Which is better for insurance?

Allstate the general progressive the reason why i say the general is because i know you can pay low for insurance. An Im 19 going on 20 my dad will put me on his insurance . But i Im just Curious of which is better. Also i got another question. Some @ss scratch the side of my moms car but i don't know who since i was sleeping. The scratch isn't really that deep just kinda like a smug. It was a white car cause i can see the paint on the gold car she has. How much would it cost to get the fix? Its on the left side of the car back door from the driver side. any tips on getting it out? Please leave the best proof that would help get the scratch out the car. Cause my mom said she going to sell it to get a new car but i think its unnecessary if you ask me.

Which state does someone have to live in for cheap car insurance?

Which state does someone have to live in for cheap car insurance?

Does my teenager need to be added to my insurance policy BEFORE he receives his driver's license?

Three of my friends didn't add their kids until they actually had their licenses, and the driving school said that technically they are covered by the parent's insurance while driving with just a permit. When I called AAA, they said I needed to add him. If I don't have to add him to the policy until he's actually a licensed driver and save the enormous $$$ it'll cost, I'd prefer to wait.""

Cheap motorcycle insurance for 18 year old?

Im 18 an looking to get a street bike this year but the insurance company my parents have(some local small insurance company) saids they cant even give insurance until ive had lisense for 5 years which is bullshit. Even after 5 years they said it would most likely be around 4 thousand a year which is rediculous! All i want to do is own a motorcycle an ride but damn insurance is too high! Any cheap insurance that gives full coverage to 18 year olds. Btw my driving record is clean with no accidents or tickets

HOW does indemnity insurance affect Home insurance?

How does having indemnity insurance on a home for buiding work carried out with out building regs affect the cost of Home building insurance?

I'm pregnant. Can I use my boyfriends insurance?

I am only 6 weeks pregnant and we aren't married yet. I was wondering if there was a way I can use my boyfriends insurance (Kaiser) for doctor visits and child birth. I have heard that we may have to add me on his as a domestic partner, is this right? And does Kaiser add domestic partners on a members plan? Any advice would help.""

Insurance help please?

I'm currently looking for insurance and I can't get it cheaper than 6 grand I've got a vw polo 1L 1999 how an I get that down do you know any cheap insurers

Do you know if there is an insurance company that insures cars that travels in both Mexico and Texas?

I am temporarily living in Mexico and will be crossing the border to Texas. I don't know if anyone knows if there is auto insurance that takes care of insurance for crossing the ...show more

Why is car insurance mandatory but human insurance isn't?

Why is car insurance mandatory but human insurance isn't?

How do pilot insure themselves in the USA?

Is that covered by the owner of the airplane or do they need to have their own personal insurance?

Which auto insurance company covers him this time?

My husband got sued in 2006 for a car accident he caused. His insurance at that time settled in court. He has since switched insurance company. Now he's being sued again by the same people. So, which insurance company covers him now? His old insurance company or his new one?""

Which insurance company is better.. AllState or MetLife?

My husband and I want to get a 20-year term life insurance next week and will meet with some reps./brokers. Down the road we will probably add auto and home insurance. If you are a customer of either company do you recommend them in regards to their required premiums and quality of service? Your imput is greatly appreciated. Thanks.

""Caught speeding, 17 years old, Ohio, effect on insurance rates?""

I just got my first ticket after driving for about 8 months, was in my new car and acted like a complete idiot, was going 84 in a 65 mph zone, what's a good estimate on how much my insurance rates will go up? Percentages or actual amounts would both be helpful.""

Where can I find low cost insurance plans?

I am 19 years old and I want to sign up for health, dental, and vision insurance. What are some insurance plans that I can look into, that are low cost?""

The cheapest auto insurance in southern california?

The cheapest auto insurance in southern california?

What is an average cost of IUI without insurance?

What is an average cost of IUI without insurance and what is the success rate?

What is the best car insurance for someone in their 20s?

What is the best car insurance for someone in their 20s?

Wanting cheap car insurance?

wanting cheap car insurance that dont want a deposit hepl peeps xx

How much a month for loan and insurance for a 350z.?

Ok so I'm gonna be 20 in a couple months and I'm tired of driving my crappy integra. I've been saving up and I'm set on getting a 350z. My price range is about 12,000 tops. If I put a down payment of about 5 or 6 grand how much would I pay per month for the loan. And how much would I pay a month for the loan along with the insurance. I'm on my parents plan. I don't know much about interest rates. Can you give me estimates on different lengths of loans and interest rates Thanks ily""

Apollo Pennsylvania Cheap car insurance quotes zip 15613

Apollo Pennsylvania Cheap car insurance quotes zip 15613

Online insurance - how to?

Hi.. im looking for information regarding online insurance and how one goes about it??

How much will my insurance go up?

My car slid out of control and I hit a light pole and it fell down. I only have liability. My insurance company is Country Financial, I live in wisconsin, and I pay about 100 dollars a month already.""

Does an unattended parked vehicle that was hit affect insurance rates when claimed?

I came to my parked car this evening and discovered it was hit from the back bumper up along the side half way through the back seat door. It is dented and scraped pretty badly. If I claim this with my insurance will it affect my rates being that I wasn't there?

I live in Austin. The business I work for is closing down. I will probably be offered a job in San Antonio.?

For several reasons I can't move there. Will I be eligible for Unemployement Insurance if I turn it down?

How much for insurance on a Scion Tc? Does it get good MPG?

I am looking into getting a Scion Tc, I went to the dealer to look at the car and the sales man said that insurance will be a lot for a new scion. But he didn't know how much. I am 18, female, I will have my license for almost 2 years(by the time I get a new car), I have no tickets and have never been pulled over by a cop. And I live in California (if that makes a difference) Instead of getting a brand new Scion I am looking into a used one. A 2006 or 2007. I have Wawanesa car insurance. So does anyone know how much it would be a month? Oh, and from someone who has a Scion Tc, does it get good gas millage? It will be a deal breaker for me if it doesn't.""

Car insurance help :(?

would your insurance go up after you graduate high school?

What do I do if The person who hit my car doesn't have insurance?

My car was hit today while parked. Smashed in my driver door pretty bad. A Honda ran a stop sign, hit a Celica that was going straight and the impact from the hit caused my parked car to hit by the Celica. The Honda that caused the accident doesn't have insurance, and didn't have his drivers license on him either. The cops cited him, but The Celica is totaled & my door is completely smashed in. I don't know how to go about this. He ****** my car, and he doesn't have to pay? I live in California. I do have insurance, so do I take care of it myself? I just don't think that sounds right.""

Does anyone know who is the cheapest for insurance for piaggio zip 50cc scooter?

Does anyone know who is the cheapest for insurance for piaggio zip 50cc scooter?

Cars And Insurance?

OK im turning 18 in a month and im getting a car but what is a good cheap car and a good cheap insurance

150cc Scooter Insurance in California...?

I bought a 150cc scooter for $950 brand new in California. Do I need to get it insured. I am only going to use it for 6 months till I got to school. I live abroad. I am not worried about the scooter getting damaged, I need only 3rd party insurance in case I knock someone and they decide to sue me or whatever... What are your suggestion, and the cost to register one and the cost for insurance. Im 20 years old btw. Thanks alot if you can help me out!! Thanks...""

Does Pass Plus reduce the insurance rate if the young driver with it is the second driver?

I'm 17 and want to get a second hand car but the insurance is too high. I plan to get the car, put it in my dad's name and then drive it myself. Will that reduce insurance premiums?""

Help me with my car insurance question!?

i am currently insured on my grandfathers insurance as a secondary driver because they gave me their car when they paid it off. well now im selling that car and we are wondering how the insurance will work? will i just be able to switch it over to my new car though it will be in my name now instead of his? should i just put the name of the car in my grandfathers name to make things easier? or can it still be done with a reasonable increase on my car insurance? right now i pay 500 every 6 months because of my good driving record and i get the student discount, how much more will it go up if i have a car under my name?""

Car Insurance Help!!!?

I have a Toyota Corolla 2007. About 6 wks ago I got rear ended, the impact sent me over the medium unto uncoming traffic. After all was said and done the car had $6,300 on repairs done. It came out okay but know I have trouble closing the trunk, I really have to slam it and the right side back lights don't really align. I am trying to figure out how much they will give me for devaluation value on the car, I have never done this before I want to make sure I don't get ripped off. Also I am still experiencing back pain from the accident, my primary doctor wants to send me to a chiropractor which my insurance doesn't cover, should the other insurance pay for it? They are not returning my calls, and they just want to offer me $500 for pain and suffering as long as I sing some papers that release the other driver and the insurance from any further responsibility. By the way it was the other drivers fault, she was in her cell phone hit mt at 45 mph from behind and this was her 10th accident in the last 3 mos. Any suggestions?""

""Good, cheap auto insurance?

Need good cheap auto insurance. Can someone recommend me to one and/or some? Im talking cheap as in $30 per month or lower cheap. Thanks!

What is the average insurance for motorcycles vs cars in the US?

I need an average insurance price for a cheap bike and the average insurance for a cheap car.

Hey im 16 and i want my licence but insurence is pretty expensive?

hey im 16 and i want my licence but insurence is pretty expensive which company do you think i can get the cheapest insurance on and how much do you think it will cost thank you

Why is insurance so high for me?

Me and my friend are the same age (17) and we were looking at quotes for motorcycle insurance and his was less than 1000 and mine was about 1000- 2000 why is that and what sort of things bring insurance costs up?

What is the cheapest auto insurance company?

looking for a very affordable auto insurance quote/payment per month. Anyone knows? please and thank you.

Hawaii: Which Car insurance company do you like in Hawaii?

I plan moving to Hawaii. Which car insurance company do you like? Why? Also, which company don't you like? Why?""

Can getting on-line auto insurance quotes adversely affect one's credit history?

Since insurance companies do pull one's credit history. Thanks. GG_007

Car Insurance in Texas?

I know that TX law required you to have insurance however what about an insurance card? Usually your insurance gives you a paper or card to keep with you on hands like, say whenever you get in an accident However, if you get into an accident and the other person does not have her insurance card with her on hand and just gives you a business card saying her insurance is under Enterprise (the car rental company). Is she at fault for not having a insurance card on her and could she get fined?""

1993 camaro car insurance?

I'm looking to buy a 1993 used camaro with a v8 engine and 145k miles on it off craigslist. I just need to know how much the car insurance will cost me. I'm 16 turning 17 in a month. I get A's and B's in school (someone once told me grades help lower car insurance) and havnt gotten into any accidents yet. i know you guys can't give me and accurate price but i just want a general price range from any company. i'm trying to find a really cheap car insurance. so can someone please tell me a general price range i might end up paying for the car?

Insurance change? Nissan 350z to Pontiac GTO?

Alright, Well I have a 2005 Nissan 350z 35TH Anniversary edition, And I am going to trade it in on an 05 Pontiac GTO. What would the changes in my insurance be you think?""

Nissan 370z insurance cost?

Hi, im 16, and im looking into getting a 2009 370z next year. I already have the financing calculated and I can afford the monthly payments with the job i currently have. But I know the insurance would rock my wallet. And that's if they even DO insure me. So my question is, will insurance even take me? If they do, roughly how much yearly? Do you think its too expensive? Should i look into a used 350z? Thanks in advance.""

""If I get in a car crash and my car is considered totaled, how much would insurance give me?""

Well I have a mustang but the blue book value on it is only like 4K, but I already have like 3k in mods added to it. How do they determine how much they give you? only by the top value of your car? I've heard of people getting more money then there cars were worth, and then they go and buy nicer cars.""

Apollo Pennsylvania Cheap car insurance quotes zip 15613

Apollo Pennsylvania Cheap car insurance quotes zip 15613

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/allied-car-insurance-logan-russell/"

[touristguidebuzz]

Metropolitan Museum Rethinks Its Hidden Restaurant to Drive More Visits

Tuna crudo is one of many pricey appetizers on offer at the New York Metropolitan Museum of Art’s members’ Dining Room. Daniel Dorsa / Bloomberg

Skift Take: A Danny Meyer restaurant in a museum? Ya, that happens at the Whitney Museum, and it's all part of a resurgence in dining facilities at storied museums. Grab some exhibit time, and then an oxtail beignet.

— Dennis Schaal

For years, New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art’s members’ Dining Room was the hardest thing to find in a vast building full of hallways and quiet chambers. That was both the point and the problem. “We had this beautiful space that offers delicious food,” said Clyde Jones, the museum’s senior vice president for institutional advancement. “And we weren’t packed.”

For some, this was one of the dining room’s main draws. Another was that for price of a museum membership, anyone (and his or her guests) could have access to a pin-drop quiet restaurant on the Upper East Side whose wall of glass—overlooking Central Park and Cleopatra’s Needle—offered one of the best views in all of culinary New York.

But, as Jones noted, the restaurant—which is accessible only by first navigating the meandering Greek and Roman Art galleries, then the expansive Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas galleries, and riding up an elevator in the rear corner of the building to its fourth floor—was not exactly bustling.

The space was additionally burdened by a second component: Given that it can be reached only by way of museum galleries, the restaurant is exclusively open during museum hours. That’s fine for members who have time for a lengthy weekday lunch, but less fine for everyone else. (The restaurant is also open for dinner on Friday and Saturday nights, when the Met is open late.)

For years, the dining room remained a well-kept secret, even from many of the Met’s members. But this June, the institution announced that for the first time ever, nonpaying members would also be allowed to make reservations, and changed the restaurant’s name from the Members Dining Room to the more democratic, if vague, the Dining Room at the Met.

The announcement coincided with the museum’s highly publicized budget crisis, but Jones insisted that the move wasn’t a direct effort to boost the institution’s bottom line. The timing of the name change with the museum’s financial difficulties was “certainly not causal,” he said. “But it is all part and parcel of our looking at how we offer food options to our visitors and our members.”

New York’s Upper Crust

On the face of it, the difference between members and nonmembers—and thus prior access to the restaurant or lack thereof—isn’t much of a distinction: One hundred dollars, the base price of an annual museum membership, is well within the means of most art lovers.

But the Members Dining Room, in contrast with the museum’s other, more egalitarian options, also remained a bastion of New York’s upper crust by dint of its prices: Dinner appetizers start at $16, and entrees $37—apart from a $28 hearts of palm dish that really might feel more comfortable in the starter section.

“It’s meant to be fine dining,” Jones said. “A lot of research was done into the other options that diners have in the neighborhood, and in fact it’s often less expensive to have a meal in the dining room than it is at some other comparable dining options in the neighborhood.”

For anyone weighing the dining room against other local options (and those prices put it on par with the likes of the Mark Restaurant by Jean-Georges, Cafe Boulud, and the Arlington Club), a visit to the restaurant on a recent Saturday evening yielded mixed results. Step off the elevator, turn a corner, and the view is stunning: The Met’s angled glass facade runs the length of the dining room, such that visitors at virtually any table have views of the park and the skyline along Central Park West.

What It’s Like

The decor is slightly less breathtaking: Its wood-paneled walls and seating haven’t been updated since the room was built in 1993, and it shows. The lighting is hotel-conference-center-yellow, with dull wall-to-wall carpeting to match, and the plates and flatware are institutional. Despite being in a museum, the restaurant itself is devoid of art on its walls. (“It’s a dining room, not a gallery,” Jones said but added that “we have had conversations with curators about the possibility of art in the dining room, and it’s not outside the realm.”)

The service is warm, helpful, and swift. But although the menu features items that read like a Mad Libs of foodie buzzwords—such as an oxtail beignet with coffee hollandaise, and a plate of the soft Italian cheese stracciatella with heirloom tomatoes—it’s not on a par with the other fine restaurants in the neighborhood.

At a recent meal, a hamachi crudo was sliced a little too thickly and a little too far ahead of time and served timidly with mint and Japanese citrus. A tiny grilled pizzetta, which may or may not have been cooked according to its description, was slathered satisfyingly in buffalo mozzarella and guanciale. But at $20, diners might find themselves pricing out every bite in dollars.

Several main courses were well cooked on a plancha, including hefty Nantucket sea scallops for $40 and a round swordfish steak for $37, each accompanied by a charred lemon half and a variety of sauces that are best avoided. The aforementioned crisp (read: fried) hearts of palm, with lemongrass, corn, bok choy, and chili, looked and tasted a lot like very good mozzarella sticks.

A Museum Restaurant Renaissance

The menu would perhaps be more beside the point if New York wasn’t in the midst of such a boom time for museum dining rooms. Not far away, the dining room’s sister restaurant Flora Bar at the Met Breuer earned two stars from the New York Times for such creative combinations as a tuna tartare with sunflower and hijiki seaweed, while Untitled at the Whitney Museum from Danny Meyer’s Union Square Hospitality Group offers a grown-up experience in the middle of the Meatpacking District.

Both restaurants have lower price points than the Met Museum dining room, though neither aim for such formality.

Jones said that the restaurant menu is “constantly tweaked,” changing both seasonally and in response to the museum’s programming. “If there’s a Dutch painting show, then maybe there will be a menu that has a Dutch influence,” he said.

The food, of course, is only partially the point. During the Saturday evening visit, grandparents ate with grandchildren who pressed their faces against the window, while older couples enjoyed excellent cocktails and watched the sun set over the skyline. By midevening, at least half the restaurant’s 254 seats were filled, and the patrons were in a jovial—if hushed—mood. They were in a museum, after all.

  ©2017 Bloomberg L.P.

This article was written by James Tarmy and Kate Krader from Bloomberg and was legally licensed through the NewsCred publisher network. Please direct all licensing questions to legal@newscred.com.

[rollinbrigittenv8]

Metropolitan Museum Rethinks Its Hidden Restaurant to Drive More Visits

Tuna crudo is one of many pricey appetizers on offer at the New York Metropolitan Museum of Art’s members’ Dining Room. Daniel Dorsa / Bloomberg

Skift Take: A Danny Meyer restaurant in a museum? Ya, that happens at the Whitney Museum, and it's all part of a resurgence in dining facilities at storied museums. Grab some exhibit time, and then an oxtail beignet.

— Dennis Schaal

For years, New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art’s members’ Dining Room was the hardest thing to find in a vast building full of hallways and quiet chambers. That was both the point and the problem. “We had this beautiful space that offers delicious food,” said Clyde Jones, the museum’s senior vice president for institutional advancement. “And we weren’t packed.”

For some, this was one of the dining room’s main draws. Another was that for price of a museum membership, anyone (and his or her guests) could have access to a pin-drop quiet restaurant on the Upper East Side whose wall of glass—overlooking Central Park and Cleopatra’s Needle—offered one of the best views in all of culinary New York.

But, as Jones noted, the restaurant—which is accessible only by first navigating the meandering Greek and Roman Art galleries, then the expansive Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas galleries, and riding up an elevator in the rear corner of the building to its fourth floor—was not exactly bustling.

The space was additionally burdened by a second component: Given that it can be reached only by way of museum galleries, the restaurant is exclusively open during museum hours. That’s fine for members who have time for a lengthy weekday lunch, but less fine for everyone else. (The restaurant is also open for dinner on Friday and Saturday nights, when the Met is open late.)

For years, the dining room remained a well-kept secret, even from many of the Met’s members. But this June, the institution announced that for the first time ever, nonpaying members would also be allowed to make reservations, and changed the restaurant’s name from the Members Dining Room to the more democratic, if vague, the Dining Room at the Met.

The announcement coincided with the museum’s highly publicized budget crisis, but Jones insisted that the move wasn’t a direct effort to boost the institution’s bottom line. The timing of the name change with the museum’s financial difficulties was “certainly not causal,” he said. “But it is all part and parcel of our looking at how we offer food options to our visitors and our members.”

New York’s Upper Crust

On the face of it, the difference between members and nonmembers—and thus prior access to the restaurant or lack thereof—isn’t much of a distinction: One hundred dollars, the base price of an annual museum membership, is well within the means of most art lovers.

But the Members Dining Room, in contrast with the museum’s other, more egalitarian options, also remained a bastion of New York’s upper crust by dint of its prices: Dinner appetizers start at $16, and entrees $37—apart from a $28 hearts of palm dish that really might feel more comfortable in the starter section.

“It’s meant to be fine dining,” Jones said. “A lot of research was done into the other options that diners have in the neighborhood, and in fact it’s often less expensive to have a meal in the dining room than it is at some other comparable dining options in the neighborhood.”

For anyone weighing the dining room against other local options (and those prices put it on par with the likes of the Mark Restaurant by Jean-Georges, Cafe Boulud, and the Arlington Club), a visit to the restaurant on a recent Saturday evening yielded mixed results. Step off the elevator, turn a corner, and the view is stunning: The Met’s angled glass facade runs the length of the dining room, such that visitors at virtually any table have views of the park and the skyline along Central Park West.

What It’s Like

The decor is slightly less breathtaking: Its wood-paneled walls and seating haven’t been updated since the room was built in 1993, and it shows. The lighting is hotel-conference-center-yellow, with dull wall-to-wall carpeting to match, and the plates and flatware are institutional. Despite being in a museum, the restaurant itself is devoid of art on its walls. (“It’s a dining room, not a gallery,” Jones said but added that “we have had conversations with curators about the possibility of art in the dining room, and it’s not outside the realm.”)

The service is warm, helpful, and swift. But although the menu features items that read like a Mad Libs of foodie buzzwords—such as an oxtail beignet with coffee hollandaise, and a plate of the soft Italian cheese stracciatella with heirloom tomatoes—it’s not on a par with the other fine restaurants in the neighborhood.

At a recent meal, a hamachi crudo was sliced a little too thickly and a little too far ahead of time and served timidly with mint and Japanese citrus. A tiny grilled pizzetta, which may or may not have been cooked according to its description, was slathered satisfyingly in buffalo mozzarella and guanciale. But at $20, diners might find themselves pricing out every bite in dollars.

Several main courses were well cooked on a plancha, including hefty Nantucket sea scallops for $40 and a round swordfish steak for $37, each accompanied by a charred lemon half and a variety of sauces that are best avoided. The aforementioned crisp (read: fried) hearts of palm, with lemongrass, corn, bok choy, and chili, looked and tasted a lot like very good mozzarella sticks.

A Museum Restaurant Renaissance

The menu would perhaps be more beside the point if New York wasn’t in the midst of such a boom time for museum dining rooms. Not far away, the dining room’s sister restaurant Flora Bar at the Met Breuer earned two stars from the New York Times for such creative combinations as a tuna tartare with sunflower and hijiki seaweed, while Untitled at the Whitney Museum from Danny Meyer’s Union Square Hospitality Group offers a grown-up experience in the middle of the Meatpacking District.

Both restaurants have lower price points than the Met Museum dining room, though neither aim for such formality.

Jones said that the restaurant menu is “constantly tweaked,” changing both seasonally and in response to the museum’s programming. “If there’s a Dutch painting show, then maybe there will be a menu that has a Dutch influence,” he said.

The food, of course, is only partially the point. During the Saturday evening visit, grandparents ate with grandchildren who pressed their faces against the window, while older couples enjoyed excellent cocktails and watched the sun set over the skyline. By midevening, at least half the restaurant’s 254 seats were filled, and the patrons were in a jovial—if hushed—mood. They were in a museum, after all.

©2017 Bloomberg L.P.

This article was written by James Tarmy and Kate Krader from Bloomberg and was legally licensed through the NewsCred publisher network. Please direct all licensing questions to legal@newscred.com.

[perthrenovation1]

Holy moly, we did it. In just over a month we completely renovated our living room. It now looks like this: When only last month it looked like this: We have three kids, three dogs and full-time jobs, so renovation is something that usually has to be done after hours once the girls have all gone to sleep. We both worked from 8pm to midnight nearly every night for a month, and I also cleared out with the kids for 8 hours on a couple of Saturdays while Andre cracked on with sanding the floors (which took ages courtesy of the usual black sticky stuff that those blasted Victorians loved to coat the exposed parts of their floorboards in). Normally a room renovation in our house takes us months of working on it on and off, so getting it done so quickly was fantastic, albeit completely exhausting! We had installed insulation from the cellar room before a couple of winters previously, so at least that job was taken care of. So all we had to do was rip the wallpaper off and replaster the dodgy patches, demo the old 80s fireplace out to reveal the soot-blackened original Victorian opening, replaster around the curve of the fireplace, rip the carpet up and repair, sand and oil the floor, rip the 80s curtains down, prime and paint 20m of skirting, 20m of picture rail, a massive bay window and a multi-panelled stained glass side window, paint the cornice and ceiling, and finally wallpaper the entire room from floor to ceiling. Phew. We used the incredibly gorgeous Paper Meadow wallpaper from UK designer Hannah Nunn that I have been dreaming of ever since I picked up a sample from Hannah at a design show in Manchester over three years ago. I knew that using a paper this lovely for a feature wall only would be doing it an injustice. No, the entire room had to be papered on all four walls, above and below the picture rail, in order to truly experience the sensation of lying in a meadow on a warm summer's day surrounded by waving cow parsley and grasses.   A couple more after (and before) pictures: Some tips on wallpapering. I am no expert in wallpaper so these well may only apply to Hannah's paper, which is of a particularly thick and luxurious quality. Don't worry about getting paste on the front of the paper - it wipes off without a trace with a damp cloth. If you are papering a wonky Victorian room, don't rely on a tape measure to take a measurement and then transfer it to the paper. Our picture rail and skirting are all uneven, meaning a piece of wallpaper sometimes had to be 2cm longer on the left than the right. We found that the easiest way to avoid mistakes was to physically hold the roll in place against the wall, match the pattern, press the end against the picture rail or whatever we were cutting against, mark with a pencil, lay the roll on the floor, and then rule a line in pencil about 1cm above the mark. We initially tried to make all our pencil marks on the reverse of the paper so the front didn't get damaged, but quickly realised this was leading to errors and that the pencil rubbed off with an eraser very easily, so we switched to marking up on the front. I initially tried making paper templates from a roll of brown paper for the fireplace, window, power sockets and so on. Having got the template right, we then transferred it to the wallpaper. This didn't work - because we had a long drop of paper the top would be right but the bottom wouldn't. So we just used the actual roll of wallpaper, pressed it against the opening, marked it up with pencil, cut to roughly the right size, pressed it against the opening again, cut it to 1cm, and then pasted. To accommodate corners like the top of window frames or the side of a windowsill, I used a pair of fine nail scissors and made lots of tiny cuts into the wallpaper that feathered round the corner or angle. These were then very easy to press into place and any overlaps were so small they couldn't be seen. We left about 1cm of overhang at the top and bottom of the walls. Any more and we found the paper didn't stick properly at the top. I then waited until we'd papered the entire room and the paste had dried, and then went round with a stanley knife and a steel ruler cutting a precise line above the skirting and below the picture rail and cornice. I've tried cutting wallpaper before when it is still damp and it tends to tear - waiting until it's completely dry seems to work better. By our standards, this room is now 'done'. Yes we still need to add the last couple of bits of skirting, tile the hearth, make and hang curtains, install a new fire surround or beam, buy sofas, side tables, cabinets and cushions, hang pictures and mirrors... and so on. But those things are all details that can come later - the room is definitely 'finished' enough to live with for a good while. I was not sorry to see the back of the fireplace, let me tell you. Click here to leave a comment, if you like. 

http://www.simplythenest.com/journal/2017/1/19/living-room-renovation-featuring-hannah-nunn-wallpaper.html