Games that are worth your attention.

These days, keeping up with games can be a full-time job. So how do you separate the signal from the noise, the wheat from the chaff, the Temple Runs from the Temple Jumps? Allow us to help by regularly selecting a gameYou Should Play.

In a world where Flappy Bird is a frustrating success, the ethereal and surprisingly poignant Monument Valley is a breath of fresh, creative air. Designed by indie developer UsTwo, Monument Valley is described as an illusory adventure of impossible architecture and forgiveness, and its easy to see why. The game relies on puzzles of perception, stunning visuals, and a trance-like atmosphere to extract wonder and emotion from its players.

Part puzzler, part adventure, all sorts of awesome.

You guide Ida, the silent princess, as she wanders through an impossible, pastel-painted abandoned kingdom geometrically styled after the imaginations of the Dutch graphic artist M.C. Escher. At first, movement in the game is a simple tap on the part of the path you desire Ida to walk to. After a level or two, however, movement becomes increasingly complicatedthough not overwhelmingly soas your finger glides across the screen to rotate walkways, spin wheels, and manipulate perspective to create Escher-esque impossible constructions.

As Ida passes through the deserted halls and walkways of the landwhich I can only assume is called Monument Valleyshe encounters a handful of other living beings. A ghostly figure speaks to her in short, ambiguous sentences. The mysterious, aloof crow people stride purposefully along walkways and squawk at her as she approaches, acting as unmovable obstacles in her path. In later levels, a friendly, sentient totem helps her navigate difficult landscapes.

If that doesnt sound captivating enough, here are three other features that make Monument Valley worthy of a spot on your home screen:

Manipulate your pathway to navigate the impossible.

A matter of perspective: Monument Valley is a perception puzzle that feels refreshing and unique. The bulk of the game involves environment manipulation; as you maneuver the environment using wheels, levers, and sliding blocks to create viable paths for Ida, youre forced to also look at the stage as a whole to determine how different perspectives can alter in-game reality. In one level, rotating a path creates a Penrose tribar, which allows Ida to reach a higher plane as she strolls along the impossible route.

The puzzle aspect of Monument Valley is not only decidedly different, its challenging in a way that consistently feels stimulating rather than exasperating. Although the game offers few hints and clues along the way, its experimental nature ensures youll spend your short time with the title doingswiping, tapping, and moving Ida aroundinstead of growing frustrated and Googling game walkthroughs. Monument Valley is a short game, but its puzzles are inspired enough to woo even the most creative veteran puzzlers, while still being manageable for most casual players.

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You Should Play: Monument Valley

The end is in sight for the revitalization of Kelowna's main downtown street.

According to City Hall, the first layer of paving is underway on the final phase of the $14 million Bernard Avenue revitalization, which marks the completion of utilities and the commencement of streetscaping and landscaping work.

"Its your last chance to walk in the middle of the road when walkways temporarily shift from next to the buildings onto the middle of the newly paved road for the final time," says the city in a news release issued Friday.

The city is reminding residents businesses are open as usual and accessible with corridors from the centre of the road to each business entrance, minimizing disruption to pedestrians and business accesses, while allowing for the removal and reconstruction of the sidewalks.

The water main and storm systems are now complete and we are looking forward to the sidewalk construction and proceeding to the final steps of the project, said Bill Berry, design and construction services director.

New trees, benches and the installation of the last light standards will complete the consistent look of Bernard Avenue from the Sails to the Gateway at Richter Street.

The extensive improvements will see four lanes narrowed into two lanes and a centre turning lane, expanded outdoor retail and cafe space, wider sidewalks for pedestrians, street furniture, intersection plazas, landscaping and replacing of utilities.

Final paving, finishing work and permanent road markings of the previous phase between St. Paul Street and Ellis Street will occur this spring in conjunction with completion of the current phase between Ellis Street and Water Street, scheduled for June.

If you havent seen the construction downtown youve got to stop by, visit your favourite business and check out how things are constructed before its all done, said Berry. Its really an attraction in itself.

Meanwhile, the Downtown Kelowna Association is running its Great-Big-Bernard-Giveaway contest, with a $500 prize drawn every three weeks, during the construction. Visit Downtownkelowna.com for more details.

Link:
Kelowna's Bernard Avenue work closing on on completion

Since its 2007 acquisition as a state park, the 1880s landmark outdoor attraction Chimney Rock Park ( http://bit.ly/N0Yw5U) has been undergoing repairs and changes. After suffering a washed out road, a trail bridge destroyed by a land slide and an elevator that wouldnt elevate the big news for 2014 is everything has been fixed and fixed up. That includes trails where old boardwalks and steps are now updated walkways to awesome vistas.

Specialty hikes and walks ( http://bit.ly/1h6OwS5) scout out rare species, hike to the peak of the park and, in summertime, hike across the highest parts of the park.

With such great scenery, you dont have to be hiker. Start at the Old Rock Cafe and Medinas Bistro (both accessible to public parking) and stroll down the riverwalk, beside the Rocky Broad River, a nice natural walkway with a stone bridge, and access to shopping. Between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, stroll The Flowering Bridge, a classic old highway bridge now devoted to pedestrians and flower gardens ( http://www.lakelurefloweringbridge.org).

You cant visit Lake Lure and miss Chimney Rock Park, so why not eat at Old Rock Cafe ( http://bit.ly/1lOmlwS) at the park entrance overlooking the Rocky Broad River? The menu starts with burgers from local grass-fed beef and includes produce, local jams and more.

When expensive isnt the goal, but great food and a view are, La Strada at Lake Lure ( http://www.lastradaatlakelure.com) satisfies with tasty Italian fare and a lakeshore view and outdoor dining that revels in the areas A-plus scenery. Point of View Restaurant ( http://www.thepointofview.com), a longtime Lake Lure eatery is in new hands but still the place for upscale, casual dinners with a view, seven nights week.

The landmark Esmeralda Inn ( http://www.theesmeralda.com) has burned down twice during its more than 120-year history as a stagecoach stop, post office, and hideout for silent film stars. The newest (1996) version retains the historic atmosphere of old and one of Chimney Rocks best eateries, with three delicious meals a day and Sunday brunch (the restaurant is closed Wednesdays).

Theres no better way to appreciate the area around the lake than a ride with Lake Lure Tours ( http://www.lakelure.com/activities), a guided one-hour tour boat excursion with a dose of history and great views of film locations including the lakeshore scenes for Dirty Dancing. Randy Johnson

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The Charlotte region is vast and diverse. The more voices engaged in conversation, the better for us all. The Charlotte Observer welcomes your comments on news of the day, but we ask that you keep the discourse civil.

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Lake Lure / Chimney Rock

Architectural Precast Concrete Panels

In early April 2014, Kirk Rouse/Leesburg Concrete Company, Incorporated (LCCI) headed to Tyndall AFB in Panama City, Florida with crew and truckloads of custom architectural precast panels. Contracted by Apple Construction, we were tasked to manufacture, deliver and co-ordinate erection of the architectural panels. The project is still in construction and the panel installation is nearing completion.

The beautiful, integral buff colored, raised rib panels have a sandblast finish to expose the aggregate. "We were asked to match the existing surface and we nailed it." said Shawn Thomas, Vice President of Operations. "The project consists of a renovation and addition to an existing building at Tyndall AFB so the match needed to be perfect."

LCCI, specializing in precast concrete and metal fabrication, produces precast concrete in their Leesburg, Florida NPCA certified plant. Leesburg Concrete is proud of their continued diversification expansion and success.

Leesburg Concrete Company, Incorporated Family owned and operated since 1983, Leesburg Concrete Company, Incorporated was first a leading manufacturer of precast concrete steps decks, walkways, landings, and ADA compliant modular precast concrete wheelchair ramps, with steel guard rails, and handrails, as well as architectural precast cladding panels and precast concrete stairs. LCCI also offers a wide array of custom precast product options. "We Take Pride in exceeding our customer's expectations" stated Kirk Rouse, Vice President of LCCI. This American, family-owned company demonstrates a philosophy of quality and innovation.

Leesburg Concrete Company, Incorporated is focused on meeting the needs of commercial building construction and renovation projects. Their experienced staff provides turnkey service, and it only takes one call to find the solution to your building needs. For more information visit their website at http://www.leesburgconcrete.com, (800) 882-4177, or KRouse@leesburgconcrete.com.

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Leesburg Concrete Company, Inc. Puts on New Face at Tyndall AFB

Architectural Precast Concrete Panels

In early April 2014, Kirk Rouse/Leesburg Concrete Company, Incorporated (LCCI) headed to Tyndall AFB in Panama City, Florida with crew and truckloads of custom architectural precast panels. Contracted by Apple Construction, we were tasked to manufacture, deliver and co-ordinate erection of the architectural panels. The project is still in construction and the panel installation is nearing completion.

The beautiful, integral buff colored, raised rib panels have a sandblast finish to expose the aggregate. "We were asked to match the existing surface and we nailed it." said Shawn Thomas, Vice President of Operations. "The project consists of a renovation and addition to an existing building at Tyndall AFB so the match needed to be perfect."

LCCI, specializing in precast concrete and metal fabrication, produces precast concrete in their Leesburg, Florida NPCA certified plant. Leesburg Concrete is proud of their continued diversification expansion and success.

Leesburg Concrete Company, Incorporated Family owned and operated since 1983, Leesburg Concrete Company, Incorporated was first a leading manufacturer of precast concrete steps decks, walkways, landings, and ADA compliant modular precast concrete wheelchair ramps, with steel guard rails, and handrails, as well as architectural precast cladding panels and precast concrete stairs. LCCI also offers a wide array of custom precast product options. "We Take Pride in exceeding our customer's expectations" stated Kirk Rouse, Vice President of LCCI. This American, family-owned company demonstrates a philosophy of quality and innovation.

Leesburg Concrete Company, Incorporated is focused on meeting the needs of commercial building construction and renovation projects. Their experienced staff provides turnkey service, and it only takes one call to find the solution to your building needs. For more information visit their website at http://www.leesburgconcrete.com, (800) 882-4177, or KRouse@leesburgconcrete.com.

See the article here:
Leesburg Concrete Puts on a New Face at Tyndall AFB

Waterfront building design gets thumbs up

Wellington City Councils Transport and Urban Development Committee this week supported plans for a new building and public space improvements in the north Kumutoto area of Wellingtons waterfront.

The Committee agreed to recommend the full Council approve the preliminary design of the six-storey building proposed to revitalise the area of the waterfront between Waterloo Quay Apartments and the Whitmore Street entrance, which is currently used for motorhome parking.

The Council, which owns the site, will consider the recommendation at its next meeting on 7 May along with the terms of the development agreement and ground lease.

Developer Willis Bond and Co and designer Athfield Architects need these approvals before they can take the next steps in the development process doing further design work and then applying for resource consent.

The proposed building includes A-grade office space, retail and food outlets, a pedestrian link between Waterloo Quay and the harbour, a landscaped outdoor area and covered pedestrian walkways around the building. Wellington Waterfront Ltd plans to complete the remaining public areas in this part of the waterfront at the same time.

Mayor Celia Wade-Brown says the proposal is a considerable improvement on the previous proposal.

Im keen to ensure as much public access as possible is preserved, and that the visual sightlines to our beautiful harbour are maintained, she says.

Councillor Andy Foster, who chairs the Transport and Urban Development Committee, says the site has had a long and challenging history and he is very pleased the latest plans for a high quality building have reached this point.

The proposal to replace motorhome parking and build on the site is completely in keeping with the Wellington Waterfront Framework, which guides how the waterfront will be developed, he says. Weve been through a very robust process to get to this point and the question of whether the design and scale is appropriate will ultimately be determined through the resource consent process quite possibly by the Environment Court.

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Waterfront building design gets thumbs up

During spring and summer on Florida beaches, shorebirds build nests out of sand and shells and hatch chicks that can barely be seen. So well-camouflaged are the nests, eggs, and chicks of shorebirds like the snowy plover, that they can easily be stepped on or missed unless people know to watch out for them.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is reminding beach visitors to be on the lookout and avoid disturbing bird nurseries on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of Florida. Among the state's beach-nesting shorebirds facing conservation challenges are the snowy plover, least tern, black skimmer, American oystercatcher and Wilson's plover.

"By taking a few simple steps, people can enjoy the beach without disturbing beach-nesting shorebirds and their chicks, which increases the birds' chances of survival," said Nancy Douglass, who works on shorebird conservation at the FWC.

"While the populations of beach-nesting birds are declining, people's willingness to protect shorebirds and their chicks contributes to keeping them present on Florida beaches for generations to come," Douglass said.

People at the beach, including those paddling canoes, kayaks and boards along the shore, can help beach-nesting shorebirds by following basic guidelines:

Keep your distance. If birds become agitated or leave their nests, you are too close. A general rule is to stay at least 300 feet from a nest. Birds calling out loudly and dive-bombing are giving signals you need to back off.

Never intentionally force birds to fly or run. They use up energy they need for nesting, and eggs and chicks may be left vulnerable to the sun's heat and to predators.

Respect posted areas. Avoid posted nesting sites and use designated walkways when possible. It's best not to take pets to the beach, but if you do, keep them on a leash.

Keep the beach clean and do not feed wildlife. Food scraps attract predators such as raccoons and crows. Litter on beaches can entangle birds and other wildlife.

Spread the word. If you see people disturbing nesting birds, gently let them know how their actions may hurt the birds' survival. If they continue to disturb nesting birds, report their activities to the FWC's Wildlife Alert hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922), #FWC or *FWC on your cell phone or by texting Tip@MyFWC.com. You also can report nests that are not posted to Wildlife Alert.

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Beach-nesting shorebirds need peace and quiet to survive

Spring is upon us. And while it may bring beautiful flowers and warmer weather, it also brings those little pests that have been hiding all winter: ticks. There are many solutions to keeping ticks at bay, but most options are associated with harsh chemicals that can be dangerous. Peconic Landing has tips and advice for you to get rid of ticks using a healthier and more environmentally friendly approach.

Darryl Volinski, Director of Environmental Services for Peconic Landing, says Guinea hens are a big hit in residential areas for keeping ticks away. These hens simply wander your yard and eat all the ticks off the ground. It may sound too good to be true, but the Guinea hens are an easy and effective way of keeping your yard tick-free without spraying any dangerous chemicals.

Peconic Landing strives to be one of the pre-eminent continuing care communities in the United States. We are achieving our goals by operating as a partnership with our residents, Board of Trustees, management and staff.

If you arent ready to share your yard with hens and would rather take a different approach, Peconic Landing suggests using an organic tick repellent around walkways and dwellings. Using chemical pesticides might not only dangerous to your pets health, but yours and your familys as well.

Organic repellent reduces the amount of chemicals going into your groundwater, said Mr. Volinski. It also reduces the amount of chemicals that are exposed to your family. Not only that, but spraying harmful chemicals in the air also pollutes our planet. Organic repellent reduces pollution and is a more environmentally friendly option.

Other options for keeping ticks away this spring include simple tasks like removing tall grass from your yard, especially around walking paths. Ticks like to hide in this type of grass and keeping it short will help prevent that.

Another idea is to recruit the use of mice through cardboard cylinders. Mice take cotton from these cylinders to their nest that is covered with [organic] tick repellent, said Mr. Volinski. This keeps ticks away and doesnt hurt the rodents.

Peconic Landing strongly suggests you attempt these steps for getting rid of ticks this season, rather than using chemicals and pesticides.

We want to encourage each one of our neighbors to be proactive for their familys safety, said Laurelle Cassone, Director of Sales at Peconic Landing.And also to be proactive in taking care of our planet.

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Tips for non-toxic tick control

Ladies and gentlemen, shut the hell up.

This is your captain speaking.

I hope you had a miserable flight. Luckily, I slept through most of it, but I caught the tail end of the movie. That Tom Hanks what a guy.

Ive finally stirred, sobered up and realized were about 20 minutes outside of pleasant, 124-degree Fort Lauderdale. Normally, this is when Id tell you in a deep, manly tone about the weather and local time at your destination.

But since you all booked your tickets at a discount, youll get no such VIP treatment.

Flight attendants, please prepare for landing and make sure none of the passengers has on headphones. Take away their books, too. Oh, and wake up those rich drunks in first class.

Folks, Im having a bit of a crisis, and my therapist doesnt do telephone sessions. I hope youll lend me your ears. Well, Im betting on it. Flight attendants, lock the doors.

Now I know what yall are thinking. A pilot with a midlife crisis? Cant be! How may we help our handsome hero of the heavens?

Honestly, this job sucks. I find no more joy in stealing the underwear from your luggage mid-flight. Each day, the whiskey gets weaker and the flight attendants less attractive some even look like men.

All these damn clouds are the same. This wretched hat they make me wear? I vigorously fart into it each morning.

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BLOG: Flying the therapeutic skies aboard your midlife crisis

Buford, GA (PRWEB) March 29, 2014

Summer Park Apartments is renting comfortable, fully loaded units in a number of suitable floor plans at 1525 Laurel Crossing Pkwy NE in Buford. The location for this modern complex is situated near natural walking trails, tennis courts, and landscaped walkways, a short distance out from real city life. It is a place to relax, exercise, or soak in the pool.

With indoor and outdoor amenities to please everyone, Summer Park Apartments will rank high on clients list. Indoors Tenants will enjoy central heating and air conditioning, electric appliances, and washer and dryer hookups. The spacious closets and storage are a plus, and tenants can count on cable-ready broadband Internet. In selected units, dine at the breakfast bar under a sunlight kitchen window. Raised tray ceilings, crown molding, and new flooring might be an option for those who get in early. A private balcony or patio is available in every unit.

For fitness enthusiasts, there is a 24-hour fitness center as well as an outdoor world here worth checking out. Natural walking trails, volleyball court, picnic area, and salt-water pool are steps from the door. If thats not enough, there is a playground for the kids, and one for the pups too. Work hard, play hard, with Wi-Fi in and around the clubhouse, business center, and pool. Select from pet-friendly units (with fee requirements).

Residents will enter their new paradise through a controlled access gate, and there is 24-hour onsite maintenance and 24-hour emergency services. Hop onto Hwy 20 and cross over I-85 to reach Mall of Georgia in minutes, for shopping and entertainment all day long. Summer Park Apartments is a perfect getaway yet close to everything tenants need for comfortable living.

For anyone wishing to make Summer Park Apartments their new home, units can be requested through an online application service. Once One registers with an email address and new password, he or she can fill out the application form and submit it online. Login regularly to check the status of the application. As a resident, one will enjoy a Summer Park Apartments resident login for property updates and access to various online forms.

The Summer Park Apartments courteous and professional management team will respond to inquiries almost any day of the week (Mon-Fri 9-6, Sat 10-5). Visit the Summer Park Apartments website now, or stop by their rental office at 1525 Laurel Crossing Pkwy NE in Buford, Georgia.

About Summer Park Apartments

The Summer Park Apartments are professionally managed by Cottonwood Capital Property Management II, LLC. Summer Park Apartments were listed as top-rated in 2013 by Apartment Ratings.

Contact Information

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Summer Park Apartments With Full Amenities and Fitness Center in Buford, Georgia