GOLD024: ICONA POP

Last month we introduced you to our favorite new band, the lovely and talented ladies of Icona Pop. Next week they bring their amazing sounds to our stage at Popshop (tickets going fast here), and shortly thereafter we'll be bringing their dangerously amazing AA-side debut single "Manners"/"Top Rated" into the world on Neon Gold. It's easily one of the most special singles we've ever worked with, a truly spectacular double drop of Swedish pop majesty.

On the lead side is the triumphant "Manners", an anthemic call to arms for jilted lovers everywhere that has been owning our hearts and minds since the day it first graced our ears. It's absolutely immense... cascading drums and oscillating synths give the track it's backbone while the singalong "ba ba baaa" chorus will stick with you for months. Not to be outdone, "Top Rated" picks up where "Manners" left off with another round of synth-drenched ex-lover vitriol that might actually end up the bigger single of the two. For now though enjoy a free download of the new and improved single version of "Manners", available below.

MP3: "Manners" (Single Version) - Icona Pop [exclusive]

This amazing package comes featuring artwork from Slobodan Zivic and is out March 21st, available for preorder now from the Neon Gold Shop and our friends at Puregroove in the UK.

POPSHOP RADIO 003

Another Popshop is upon us this Thursday, which means another round of Popshop Radio courtesy of The Knocks. This time we're back with even more oven fresh exclusives, including the world premier of Icona Pop's massive "Top Rated" and a brand new Starsmith single, a summery slice of French disco called "Lesson One" co-produced by Alan Braxe and the first Starsmith track featuring lead vox from the man himself. It's all available for download from the Soundcloud player below, so get your download on and make sure to get your tickets HERE so you don't get left out on the cold on what's sure to be a night to remember.

1. "Ain't Too Proud To Beg" - The Knocks
2. "Top Rated" - Icona Pop
3. "Need You Now" - Cut Copy
4. "Lesson One" - Starsmith
5. "Sun of a Gun" - Oh Land
6. "Cold Dust Girl" (Gemini Club Remix) - Hey Champ!
7. "I Follow Rivers" (The Magician Remix) - Lykke Li
8. "Friend Crush" - Friends
9. "Under Cover of Darkness" - The Strokes

Virgin plans Sydney Airport expansion

Virgin Blue has confirmed plans to increase its hangar space at Sydney Airport following increasing demand.

The airline is set to build its first wide-body hangar at the Australian airport by the end of 2012 to enable it to hold four narrow-body aircraft or two narrow-body aircraft and one wide-body plane.

Sydney Airport chief executive Russell Balding welcomed Virgin Blue's decision to increase its presence in a move that could increase options for those taking flights to Australia.

For more information visit here

I am Tired of Sherbert, Give Me Vanilla Please!

After I reposted my auctions in Org yesterday, I decided to check out some old "new" content, do some soul searching in the game, attempt on queueing up for a few randoms in the process.

I was thinking about doing one of my good ol' recipe/vendor runs, so I hit the FP with a destination unknown. Now since "The Shattering", they have moved a few things around, and I wanted to check on my ol route that I used to use for picking up and "flipping" items. This is a taste of the first part of my recipe snatch route:

So I start at Winterspring, and I noticed very few changes. It's as if Blizzard forgot about it. There are a few mobs in the area that are new, but nothing too major. Blah. So I go into town, and pick up a few recipies there (no, not the hammer):

After grabbing them, I go off searching for anything new (again). I go to my farm spot for Icy Chill Enchant (which I believe they took out of the game) and see a few new mobs there, do a quick wowhead check, and see they are nothing special, so I move on...As I work my way across the frozen plains, I happen to see yet another Silverbound Treasure Chest tucked away under a tree.....

Nothing major inside, but an easy 150g worth of sales, so notta sosa badda..

After opening the chest, I decide to get back to town and re-up the limited recipies, then take the FP to Moonglade, as that is Stop II.. The Formula: Runed Arcanite is a "blocker" when leveling up Enchanting, so it's a defitnite pick. And if you have no competition, an easy 100+ gold profit. =)

Right across the room, there is a little purple haired queenie selling her wares, and once again, you can make a bit of coin by conning her out of her limited items she carries:

Now this has been a seller since back in the original WoW for me. Geenia will carry a limited either "green" or "red" Hanbok, and basically all these sell around the 20ish gold price. Yeah, that means don't buy the "royal", as you will be lucky to get your funds back (and for that matter, I won't buy the Dark Green either). For quick sales, you might go with the 10-15g means with the White Hanbok, but the limited red or green will be a more consitent sale, as it is a more "rare" item.

If you haven't already, go out and getcha Vanilla Cone, and enjoy the profits!



My traveling *silly* moments

Been there done that...

I want to be that person who say those most of times.... and traveling gave me chance to kept saying that to my friends--maybe in the "quite annoying" level. Hehehe... i am glad i did traveling that i had chance to do things i haven't done, or things that i thought i wont be done.. errhhh not necessarily against law of course!!

I had those lovely memories, lots of new friends.. and its all precious!

But sure i had bad experiences also.... things i don't want to remember.. and just want to forget soon as i was on holiday and don't want to think (or using my brain accordingly!) just trying to relax and away from trouble!

What happens to me most of time.. and prob happens to other traveler to is getting late to get to the air plane!!

RRRRUUUNNNN to the gaaattteee!!!!

It happens to me twice.. and uncountable "almost" left by the plane. Some happens when i went to airport at very last minute, another time happens when i got lost in airport--yepp pretty silly indeed!!

But hey.. thats what experience is!

I try my best to made that not happen, wake up early, get to airport early... try to wonder around too far.. but..TT.TT it happens!! the plane gone...

...its like watching horror movie when this is happens to you!!

But once i got left by Sriwijaya flight from Jakarta to Jambi, they change my flight ticket for free for noon flight. I think its because i already check in.. and late for 5 min from the departure.. erhh long story that related to J.CO at terminal 3 and the free shuttle bus of course!!

Another time, i was late at Jambi airport when the plane is actually ready for take off.. it back again... wow... amazing.. i beg them because its the last flight from Jambi and i actually did use the excuse they change the flight time! and no sms or any phone call saying it was changed! so... they back again for me.. i had to run to run way with a guy carry my bulky backpack! it feels like joining the amazing race!

I never plan that and i don't want that to ever happens...

If i look back again.. this hobby also started wrong... wrong in terms i did start it that way... first time traveling in January 2007... i was 15 minutes late that i also had to run to run way.. where the flight is waiting, i rush i run, and on board... there he goes.. MY BOSS at one of the passenger seat.. i said "..uuuhh hi boss!!" he hide his face under newspaper that he read!! hahahahahaha....

When i  arrive in Jakarta.. and get my luggage he was there standing next to me and whisper... i don't want to know you because you are very late arriving! i didnt know that we were waiting for you!! hahaha i don't know if we were on the same flight because i don't even notice the flight that he request few weeks ago before i went on my days off!

So.. i think i need to say sorry to all those passengers that wait for me.. and most of indonesia/domestic flight attendant that already very patience waiting for this girl with her huge backpack... i am so sorry guys...

I will keep trying not to be late when ever i travel.. i just hope that i wont be on the same flight with one of my readers here (hehe di lempar sama sandal jepit gue huahauhaua! maaf kan sayaaaaaa!)

Eventually there are few reasons why passenger could possibly late for their flight and missed the flight!

There are 8 top reasons why people actually late for their flights! and i found few tips and solutions for those.. i hope this could help you all out! because missing a flight could possibly very expensive mistake for a budget traveler!

These tips should help you get where you’re going on time.

Problem: Misread and misspelled documents
Solution: On receipt of your documents check the name, spelling and flight details are correct.

Problem: Flight schedule changes
Solution: Check your latest paperwork for any changes. Remember the times on the ticket will be written using the 24 hr clock.

Problem: Traffic delays caused by road accidents and road works or engineering works on railways
Solution: Check with local authority or just radio broadcast, accidents or engineering works that may affect your route and if need be find an alternative route.

Problem: Denied permission to travel due to incorrect passport or expired passports

Solution: Review your passport in advance to ensure it still has six months to run after your return to the UK. Also remember to pack your passport in your hand luggage.

Problem: Essential medication needed urgently is packed in the hold luggage which has been checked–in
Solution: If your bags do not join you on the aircraft you run the risk of missing your flight. Make sure any prescribed medication is packed in your hand luggage just in case you need it before the flight departs.  Most airports have a chemist but they may not stock your particular prescription.

Problem: Too late to check-in
Solution: Add more time – Airports are big and somewhere you might not be familiar with. Never under estimate your timings, make sure you have left plenty of time to get from the airport car park, (which may require a transfer service) to the terminal and into the correct check-in zone. Remember there may be a queue at check-in. Make sure you know which terminal as some airport have more than one and airlines can also fly out of more than one terminal.

Problem: Not allowing enough time to get to the departure gate once checked-in
Solution:  Airlines are requiring their passengers to arrive at the gate for their flights earlier than in the past. Plan on getting to the gate at least 30 minutes before your flight departs and remember some gates can be as much as 25 minutes away from the main retail area. If you’re late they won’t wait.

Problem: Flights not connecting
Solution: Connecting flights are the most difficult to negotiate. If there isn't a nonstop flight, then build extra time into your itinerary for the connection. Don’t take the connecting flight that gives you just 45 minutes to change planes at a busy airport; instead, ask for a 2 to 4 hour layover to make the connection. You may not be able to do this online, instead call your travel agent or the airline directly. Please remember if you have bought two separate flights your connection is never guaranteed.

EVERYTHING WILL BE BETTER IN THE FALL.

London's Entrepreneurs is one of the more fascinating prospects kicking around the UK electro-indie scene at the moment, so it's with great pleasure that we bring you the world premier of the Tyler T. Williams-directed video for his latest single "Bubblegunk" in these here pages. It's pretty out there and downright disconcerting at times, but it's also kind of amazing... not unlike Entrepreneurs' tracks themselves. Juggling a brilliant pop sensibility with a completely off-the-wall production style, "Bubblegunk" puts Entrepreneurs in a sonic league of his own, his effortlessly cool Julian Casablancas-meets-James Murphy vocal delivery setting the pace for the track before the bridge finds him unleashing the kind of mammoth guitar solo that Eddie Van Halen would eat his grandma for. It's all out via Fear & Records on limited edition CD (complete with post-apocalyptic survival kit) April 4th and available from iTunes now, but you can grab a free piece of "Bubblegunk" below.

MP3: "Bubblegunk" - Entrepreneurs

There may be easy gold in the Auction House

Some items are more rare than others, yet most don't know their real value and sell them dirt cheap. Here's a list of some VERY rare TBC patterns and schematics for professions that you should keep your eye out for. Easy gold to be made!

Most of these Sunwell drops have been seen in the AH for around 90-1500 gold usually, yet they can fetch even 10000 gold if you're patient. If you're using auctioneer, I'd suggest to add these to your snatch list asap!


[Plans: Hard Khorium Battleplate]
[Plans: Sunblessed Breastplate]

[Schematic: Annihilator Holo-Gogs]
[Schematic: Hard Khorium Goggles]
[Schematic: Hyper-Magnified Moon Specs]
[Schematic: Justicebringer 3000 Specs]
[Schematic: Lightning Etched Specs]
[Schematic: Mayhem Projection Goggles]
[Schematic: Powerheal 9000 Lens]
[Schematic: Primal-Attuned Goggles]
[Schematic: Quad Deathblow X44 Goggles]
[Schematic: Surestrike Goggles v3.0]
[Schematic: Wonderheal XT68 Shades]

[Design: Amulet of Flowing Life]
[Design: Hard Khorium Choker]
[Design: Pendant of Sunfire]

[Pattern: Carapace of Sun and Shadow]
[Pattern: Embrace of the Phoenix]
[Pattern: Leather Chestguard of the Sun]
[Pattern: Sun-Drenched Scale Chestguard]
[Pattern: Robe of Eternal Light]
[Pattern: Sunfire Robe]

I will post a more extensive list at some point that will contain more valuable items, along with a snatch guide if you're unfamiliar with it.

Thanks to Sterling from the Consortium for the handy list!

Richard Russell : Gold is the Safest Currency

Richard Russell, the man behind Dow Theory Letters talks about the depreciation of the dollar and why he feels safe holding gold at the Casey Research Gold and Resource Summit

James Turk, Corporates can benefit from gold and silver

In this video Ned Naylor-Leyland, Partner at Cheviot Asset Management, tells James Turk, Founder/Chairman of GoldMoney and Director of The GoldMoney Foundation, that corporates can benefit from sound money. Although the sound money movement does a good job educating retail customers, there is a lot of room to educate CFOs as well, as they can benefit from buying gold and silver and reduce payment risks. Watch the whole 21-minutes interview at http://www.goldmoney.com/naylor-leyla...

Silver over $ 33 an ounce for the first time since 1980

Silver is back in the crosshairs of speculators, who have pushed its prices over $ 33 an ounce for the first time since March 1980 to a peak of $ 33.40 on the spot market in London. After the outstanding performance of 2010 - where silver had won more than 80%, one of the largest increases among the commodities - the metal had started the year in the name of weakness. But in February, it is on an appreciation trend .

Take the Historical Apache Trail for a Wild West Experience

Travellers from all over the world reach the shores of the magnificent country called the United States to experience the glitz, glamour and grandiose associated with arguably the world’s most powerful country. However, apart the gaudy monstrosity that is reflected through its various facets, the country is widely known for its extreme natural wonders enchanting globe trotters with its varied geological marvels. Especially, the Western United States is big in terms of tourism making cheap flights to USA disappear fast. The region is believed to have played an important role in the American history and has been embedded in country’s popular folklore. The Western United States, commonly referred to the West, is a region that comprises the westernmost states of the U.S.

Arizona’s Apache Trail is a big attraction in the western part of the country that promises complete fun and extreme thrill for individuals seeking a ‘Wild West’ experience. Apache Trail is a 120 mile scenic route between Phoenix and Globe that has been recognised as the only Historic and Scenic Highway in Arizona. A tour of this wonderful trail will take you through vast deserts, majestic mountains, lake shores, old mining towns and brilliantly eroded canyons. No wonder tourists have been using this route for almost 100 years now. This is one road trip that you won’t forget in a hurry. Take a look at different destinations that surely cannot be missed along the Apache Trail, ones that make air tickets to USA so popular among holiday makers.

The Lost Dutchman State Park
Located at the base of the Superstition Mountains, the Lost Dutchman State Park is the perfect launch pad for those who wish to explore the huge proportions of the magnificent mountains. The Lost Dutchman State Park features a variety of hiking trails, several campsites and picnic facilities. The park also organises special programs throughout the year.

Goldfield Ghost Town
Goldfield Ghost Town is another reason why cheap tickets on airlines to Arizona are so popular. Goldfield Ghost Town is a re-created old west town that offers mine tours, great shopping options and incredible food. The place is so much fun and has so much to offer that tourists indeed get confused as to what to experience and what to leave out! Be it walking down the main street or exploring the myriad of historical structures, Goldfield Ghost Town is fun through and through! Travellers can also witness an old west gun fight enacted by the well-known Goldfield Gunfighters! Goldfield Ghost Town is the way to go for a fun filled day and to experience rich Wild West history!

Canyon Lake
Canyon Lake is an incredible tourist spot that beguiles people from every corner of the world enticing them to catch flights to USA. It is one of the four reservoirs that were formed by the damming of the Salt River. People can have a great time here as the place features a number of facilities for tourists like boating, camping, the Dolly Steamboat Cruises, dining and swimming.

Tortilla Flat
Tortilla Flat is an old-west style settlement that is a big hit among travellers. Majority of travellers stop here to have a hearty lunch amidst the charming historic surroundings. At Tortilla Flat one can find a variety of options as far as food is concerned.

Roosevelt Dam
Roosevelt Dam is a famous landmark on the historic Apache Trail. The dam stands apart from the others in the way it was originally constructed. It was build using the Greco-Roman style of construction that uses massive, irregular blocks.

Visit Apache Trail and experience the wonderful past of America in the present! Plan early to land up with cheap air tickets to USA!

THESE DREAMS.

With one of the more genius live setups of any up-and-coming band we've seen and a debut EP that found it's way into our Top 25 Singles of last year, Oh Land has been dazzling us since she first slipped onto our radar in the twilight of 2010. Now, with her debut album out next month and an expanded live show set to debut at Popshop next week, she looks primed to take things to the next level in a big way. Catch her before she goes supernova at Popshop this Thursday (get yr tickets) along with Icona Pop, Starsmith and Friends, and get yourself ready with the phenomenal Twin Shadow remix of "White Nights" now.

MP3: "White Nights" (Twin Shadow Remix) - Oh Land

James Turk : Gold and the Truth-Virus

Ned Naylor-Leyland, Partner at Cheviot Asset Management, tells James Turk, Founder/Chairman of GoldMoney and Director of The GoldMoney Foundation, on how he hopes more and more people will be caught by the 'Truth-Virus'. This should result in a firm embracing of sound money and the buying of gold and silver. Watch the whole 21-minutes interview at http:/www.goldmoney.com/naylor-leyland-t

­urk.

COLOURS IN THE AIR.

We've been loving the sights and sounds of new Lucky Number hopefuls Friends for a minute now, so it's with great pleasure that we bring you this exclusive mp3 of their pristine debut single "Friend Crush" ahead of their Popshop debut next Thursday (tickets still available here). There's a rough charm about "Friend Crush" that's too endearing to ignore, breezy melodies and shimmering guitars coming together to perfectly complement the earnest innocence of frontwoman Samantha Urbini as she yearns for something just a little bit more. They're one of the most exciting new bands in Brooklyn, if only because their sound is so far removed from the Brooklyn we're used to - sonically this wouldn't be out of place in Lyyke Li's catalog with Bjorn Yttling at the production helm - and we can't wait to hear what they've got in store for us in the months to come.

MP3: "Friend Crush" - Friends [exclusive]

"Price Fixing" the AH- Know your Competition

Last week, I received an email with a question on a reader dealing with Mysterious Fortune Cards (and if you remember my post when I was hit up on this) and someone contacted him about keeping the price stagnant for more profits (25g when inks are going for 12g on his server). After instpecting his server, I saw that there were 12 different folks selling them. So I told him unless you can get all 12 people to agree, then you are SOL. As of late, it's tough getting two people to agree on anything, let alone 12. So I regretted to inform him that I don't forsee it, that you need more of a niche market to pull that off.

That brings me to an email I received today. Sevil mentioned that he was recently contacted by an in game mail about setting a common price for the Netherweave Bags in the AH. In the email, they mentioned he is thinking that in game mail was sent to everyone competing in that market. First off, you want to respond "in person". Send a response saying it would be easier to talk in game, to holler when you are on, but that you are interested in doing this (whether you are or not, you need to feel them out). Then toss him on your friends list. If they log on, shoot  a quick /tell to them. Read through the post first before doing so to get your bearings on who or what this guy is...

A few things to think about in this situation:

1. One of the issues with Netherweave Bags is that folks were "told" to stockpile them for the Cata expansion. My first guess is that you have quite a bit of competition (most servers you have 4-5 on average selling them), as there are others that stockpiled as well, so unless you know who has what amount, it would be tough to win at this game and "own" the market. With that said, let's next it....

2. You need to buy out EVERYTHING for these bags. The cloth, the bolts. You need to set a price point on what you will pay (and you mentioned this in your email to me, so that's a good thing) so it's not profitable for anyone else to enter the market. When I do this style of bullying folks out, I buy so the profit is only a few gold for the other folks (given I have a good stock already). Either you stick your toes in the water, or dive in. I prefer to dive....

3. Offer to buy him out. Now this might not happen, but for someone to contact you, they are pissed off about the whole situation. Once again, I have done this style as well. Tell them:

"Instead of undercutting each other to death, lemme buy up your stock. I know that they cost 5g to make, so I will offer you 10g each (or less, your deal, right?) for all you got in stock". Believe me, alot of folks go for this in quite a few markets....

4. Since we have no idea to see who has been selling what for how long.....wait. We kinda do. This is where the Undermine Journal comes into play. Search your server, and I want you to click on your competitor's name, and check their markets (just an example here of what you will see)

Now you didn't list whether you were H or A, but I just picked one that was selling for reference. When looking at my market, I speculate. Now 85% of the time I seem to be 62% right =). Lemme tell you what I think when I see this:

I see that this seller's "niche" market is the bags (only three "items" posted in 2 days)
I see that no one has undercut the bags in 9 hours, so they are not an "AH" camper competing
I see that your server is dumping the Darksky Treads...4 undercuts in 8 hours? hmmm....

Now let's check your mats quick on the bags (i.e click on the Netherweave Bags):



Currently, there is a 15ish gold markup on these bags, and reading the sales, they sell consistently throughout each day.

*You always want to check your mats prices when getting into any market, and once in, lock the door. Don't let anyone else in...

We see here that there is a consistent sales platform, and that the demand is there to be a very lucrative business, given the 15g profit (selling a few a day will add up over time). Basically, as long as you have some on the market, you will get sales sooner or later.

*When posting these bags, I would post in 12hr, 24h, and a few at 48h just to make sure that I never do NOT have any on the AH. Before I hear hate on this, see my point. If you don't have any on the AH, you have zero % chance to sell. If you keep the AH constantly supplied, you don't have to worry about the 0%, you at least have a fighting chance to get sales.

Now I hoped this gave you an idea on how to not only work with a "price fixer" but also checking the "resume" of your competiton. This will obviously work with many markets, not just the bags. So when you are competing with someone, do your homework, and know who you are competing with, that's a surefire path to winning.

Silver never been so high since 1980

The headlines are all for gold, but it was silver which actually made all the more striking performances.the price of silver is the highest ever seen for a little over 30 years earlier when the market was under the influence of speculative purchases of Hunt brothers.
At the end of last year it took 65 ounces of silver to buy one of gold, while yesterday 58 would be enough . It is a confirmation of what industry analysts say: going up by 48% in 2009 and over 38% in 2010 , silver shows how it is an advantage being a precious metal and a metal with significant industrial uses .
It should be noted that even in the downward trend in the past, the metal showed a speed exceeding that of gold. And it is worth noting that the industrial uses may become a disadvantage when the economy limps.
In the case of silver increases are the engines of the weakness of the dollar (the currency in which prices are expressed), the low interest rates and the increasing industrial demand, in a mix that in recent weeks has been shown to operate at full regime, but that may not last forever.
The 2010 budget for silver should see a world production of about 23 thousand tonnes, which will add 7 thousand tons of recycled material. The question is half the industry (electronics ), with significant demands for jewelry, coins and ETFs, securities traded like stocks, whose prices replicate the performance of the underlying metal.
The silver , has a feature that is often overlooked: it is usually extracted from the mines in which silver is only a sub product. It means that any slowdown in interest in the primary metal (whether it be copper or lead, gold or zinc) has a negative effect on the extraction of silver.

The same can of course be reversed. But in these situations the risk is considered negligible. Indeed, the situation underscores the interest in the mining sector

Farming chests in Blackrock Spire

If you loved the previous treasure hunting tip and want to make more gold farming chests, here's another one! This time you will be returning to the classic level 60 instance, Lower Blackrock Spire in the Burning Steppes in search of valuable profession recipes and other forgotten goodies. Remember, it's the right entrance once inside, not left which leads to Upper Blackrock Spire!

I've been farming gold here for a week now at least and there's always up to 4 chests in the instance and every chest has a small chance of containing a valuable item. Most of them contain junk only, however and some of them are even locked! So a rogue or any other class with blacksmithing skeleton keys or engineering seaforium charges is highly recommended. You'll never know what treasures awaits in that locked chest!

So far I've obtained 6 rare recipes that are worth almost 10k gold total. Finding a buyer might not be easy, but there's no reason to undercut when selling rare recipes. Buyers who are looking for them are ready to pay! In addition to those, I've obtained boatloads of greenies that disenchanted into valuable Illusion Dusts and Greater Eternal Essences. Some mobs also drop valuable profession recipes, like Arcanite Reaper and less valuable Robe of the Archmage.

Since there's a limit on how many instances you can visit in a hour (5), it's recommended that while you're in the instance you should also kill everything that crosses your path. All humanoids drop Runecloth and if you have tailoring and enchanting, you can create Runecloth headbands and disenchant them for even greater profit!

There's usually one treasure chest in each of the regions within the zone and they have 2 spawn points usually, so after a few runs you're already familiar with all the treasure chest spawn points.

Comex silver posted 84 percent gain in 2010

Silver Lining for Silver Prices
Feb. 25 2011 | Comex silver posted 84 percent gain in 2010, with Robert Archer, Great Panther Silver CEO

New Delhi Airport Metro line opens

A new airport metro rail service has begun operating in New Delhi that could help to reduce travelling times for those taking flights to India.

The Airport Express Line of Delhi Metro has been met with positive comments from passengers as it provides a cost-effective and time-saving alternative to taking a taxi to the airport.

"It is a dream come true. Travelling in this train makes me believe that we are in sync with the developed world now," a passenger told Business Standard.

For more information visit here

PTR 4.1.0 Zul' Gurub 5 Man Heroic Snapshots- Part I

Just a quick update, in between the constant issues with D/C'ing, the horrible pugs (I dont think they even have level 60 toons, not sure why they are allowed to "roll" a test 85 if you have never even done an instance before) and the bad lag times, I was able to get a few pics of ZG for ya'll to drool over (blizz actually did a good job changing the scematics of the instance, even though the baseline graphics are there, I like the additions so far!)

For those that don't want to see, spoiler alert inc!

 

 

Starting off, the instance is great. I D/C'd three times at the first boss, so there was a total wipe each time (not that a piddly rogue's DPS would have helped- a dead deeps is worse than a bad deeps), but I can tell you to use the cauldrons, as they have a buff (Toxic Torment) that absorbs 90% of nature damage (and it's unlimited, so mid fight you can run back to debuff, I recommended to the tank to "pull" next to it, common sense huh? lol.).

There are achievements that are related to the "dungeon" as well, a "PTR Guildie" just got one before I disconnected for the last time, and wasn't able to get back on again, so I was not able to get a pic for you.

Is this patch going to get me back into enjoying the game again? I am thinking so....

Coming Soon- Alto on the PTR 4.1.0

Hey folks, just want to let you know I will be getting away from the "AH gold game" here for a few days as I am extremely interested in getting into the guts of 4.1.0.

Since this patch is the first "major" patch to hit us since Cata, I will do my best to keep you scooped with the latest and greatest to get you to be the first knowing about what is happening. We all know that everything doesn't get reported on the notes, so I am going to be searching and scrounging for goodies to share with you. Sound like a plan?

So get my blog on your favorites, follow me on twitter (top upper right of the page, at the twitter logo), toss me on google reader, do whatcha gotta do, cuz the posts are a comin' to ya!

I hate typing this post as much as you hate reading it, i.e a post with nothing....but I wanted to let ya'll know my plan for the recent future so you didn't think I died or something.

My Dearest Passport....

Would you believe if i said, i am nearly 30, and my local Immigration office ask me for "parent approval" form to be signed for my passport renewal?

It does happens here in Indonesia.

Few weeks ago i was on this long winding road of renewing my passport. It should be no hassle but dang! its not Indonesia if its not difficult!

I went there first time in 2006 for my own passport by my self.. and i finish the passport less than a week. That day i can not finish it in a day because that "parent approval" letter.

As i plan to do some traveling in 2011, so i need to renew the passport which about to expire in Nov 2011. Its still far, but i short of had this "secret" plan that need my passport to be renew, kind of close to the traveling date.

So, after i got all supported papers such as:
1. Employment paper from office (surat pernyataan dari kantor), addressed to the head office of Jambi Immigration on the top of the letter.
2. Original and copy of birth certificate.
3. Original and copy of Indonesian Id that copied front side and back side on 1 piece of paper.
4. My old passport and copy of first page and last page, both side copied also in same side of paper.
5. The Parent approval forms, signed and stamped with "materai" which is worth Rp 6000
6. Passport application forms that already filled, and signed
7. Form to request for old passport, signed and stamped with Rp 6000 "materai"

When submitting my files, i also had to pay like Rp 12.000,- for what they call "folders and passport cover" which suppose to be free (dang!). When submit it to the officer they check it and i got this note said i had to go back there again in next 2 days for picture and INTERVIEW. Wow.. they're really made this all difficult!

Tow days after that, i went to the officer hand over the small sheet of paper, and give the Rp 255.000,- passport fee. Thats for biometric, 48 pages passport.

They call my name and stuffed me with like 15 other people in a room size 3x4meters oh gosh.. horrible! just kind of remind me interrogation room in some police office (haha yes i've been into several-but no.. i didnt commit any crime!).

And they took picture of me... i know it will look awful, it does. And not like last time where i had chance to see the result and ask to get another picture hehe.. this time just too many people to lined up that i am pretty sure if i ask that guy to get me posed once again he will yell at me!

After that i had to wait again for another queue for interview. Still in the same stuffy room full with other people. The worse is.. they call for more people to get in---duhhh!!! When i am about to turn my face to green due to some odors.. (yepp gross) they call my name for interview!

This guy, ask my name, address, DOB and also my work... ask about where to travel, when, and why... wow.. such details! he check my old passport and said.. ok you're good to go.. and said i could take the passport for next two days. He ask me to sign a blank passport and then i go home.

Two days after that is Friday... of course when i came in the morning they said its not ready. I should go there again after lunch! oh my.... what a pain! anyway i am just too close to the finish line... so i went there again after lunch.

After waiting for several minutes... wondering when reading the sign that there's free wifi at the waiting room--but i know it better--they wont gave me the password anyway.. they call my name and hand over the passport. They return all of the original papers, also have to double check if there's papers that i forgot! and then i gave them the old passport request form. And they also gave my my dearest old passport with all stamps and memories with it.....

I am good to go! (start booking airasia big deals promo)

Silver Breaks $34 an ounce!!! Oil Super Spike!

Back in 2001, 10 years ago, I told people to buy silver when it was $5 an ounce. I said it would go over $20 that decade; also, in the next over $100 / oz. Debunkers said we are not going to use silver anymore. That is because we are leaving film and going to digital cameras. Then in 2008 it crash from 20 to 8 and they said "Oh see, silver was a bubble and you were wrong." I did now sell any. OK now they claim they always knew silver was going up. That said, they did not buy a single ounce.


Pre-1964 U.S. 90% silver coins, dimes, quarter, and half dollars are in the U.S., often referred to as Junk Silver. Good to hear that in Europe silver is being accepted as payment by some. It a good start. In some parts of Asia, silver is not regarded highly or as money. Gold is king there. No VAT in many countries on gold, including parts of Asia. Check around if you may need to travel light.
Gold is preferred here. I was astonished by the fine jewelry available in Turkey in December. I really prefer coins, rounds, and ingots, however. The jewelry I just sold here, I don't think I got a great price on. I think a solid chunk is easier to get a grip on. I just got a set of heavy silverware, all complete, for five euros. It is crazy. I see beautiful copper household objects here for sale, too, in my nabe, and wonder why there are no takers.

There is no one of Komodo Being Stress

The number of tourist visits to Komodo Island is already governed by the manager of the Park. Head of Administration Division of TNK Heru Rudiharto disclose it to respond to the news about 24,000 foreign tourists visit the island of Komodo dragons that cause stress the komodo.

"There is no event that Komodo stressful to death"


Heru daily based in Labuan Bajo which is the entrance so they can better know TNK TNK situation. "We set the cruise ship, not direct thousands down all, but we gradually set of 40-50 people. Not all at once down," he said.


He said, if a cruise ship with a capacity of 10,000 people, then do pick-up 20-30 times. "Jetty is also limited in accommodating. Cruise ships can not be directly, so picked up by speedboat. There's no way 10,000 people can go straight down," he said.

He later said, the capacity of Komodo Island is only 40-50 people. Although the island of Komodo was able to accommodate up to 100 people per day. "This is not mass tourism. We can not accept at the same time thousands of people. KNP that eco-tourism. We are prioritizing habitat and ecosystem of the island of Komodo, not the tourism aspect," he said.



In 2010, according to Heru, the number of visits reached 44,000 a year. "Of course there are times when the peak in June-July. In a month could be 5,000 people," he said.

Another New York appeals court recognizes a same-sex Canadian marriage...and a reminder about what the DOJ announcement is NOT about

The New York Supreme Court Appellate Division, First Department, ruled today that the marriage between a decedent and his surviving partner in Canada is entitled to be recognized in New York. (To read the opinion, In re Estate of Ranftle, you need to click here and scroll down to page 8). The couple, J. Craig Leiby and H. Kenneth Ranftle, married in Canada in June 2008, and in August 2008, Ranftle wrote a will. After Ranftle died, Leiby sought to probate the will as his surviving spouse and was opposed by the decedent's brother. The trial court found the marriage subject to recognition in New York, and in this opinion the appeals court affirms.

This opinion is a timely reminder of what yeseterday's Obama administration announcement does not mean. DOJ will no longer defend the constitutionality of DOMA Section 3, the section that denies federal recognition to validly married same-sex couples. Section 2 of DOMA says that states are not required to recognize same-sex marriages from elsewhere. The DOJ announcement is silent on Section 2, because it is not an issue in the pending cases that prompted the DOJ announcement.

Any family law scholar will tell you that DOMA Section 2 was unnecessary, because the rule of law even without it is that a marriage valid where performed will be recognized in a state unless it violates the strong public policy of the state.

In the Rantfle case, the opinion simply recites that rule, notes that New York does not have a specific statute (as the vast majority of states do) refusing to recognizing same-sex marriages from elsewhere, and then concludes that it is not against "natural law" to recognize such marriages. Short and sweet.

In states with statutes refusing recognition to same-sex marriages from elsewhere (here is a chart), a court would not treat Leiby as Ranftle's surviving spouse. Nothing in yesterday's DOJ announcement changes that. At some point there will be a constitutional challenge to such non-recognition. One way the United States could be a party is that a couple could marry, go home to a state that does not recognize them, and then try to get some federal benefit. The federal government goes by state law to determine if you are married, and the couple could claim that by not treating them as married the state they live in is violating the constitution. The administration would have to take some stand on the matter.

But it's more likely that the couple will seek some recognition in their state, in which case the United States won't be a party at all, and we would expect most state courts to uphold the state DOMA. All this will be interesting litigation to come. Meanwhile, New Yorker get one more piece of support for the validity of the marriages they enter outside New York.

Gold To Continue Long-Term Upward Trend

Gold To Continue Long-Term Upward Trend
Feb. 22 2011 | Kingsgate CEO Gavin Thomas is optimistic about the second half of the year despite posting a 65% fall in consolidated interim net profit. He shares his upbeat outlook, with Michael Yoshikami of YCMNET Advisors and CNBC's Martin Soong & Sri Jegarajah.

Parkroyal set to launch Melbourne Airport hotel

The Hilton Melbourne Airport hotel is set to be rebranded by Parkroyal.

Based in Australia, Parkroyal has been a key industry figure from a number of years but is now under the control of Pan Pacific Hotels Group and was re-launched down under in November.

Ideally placed for those taking flights to Melbourne, the airport hotel has a total of 276 rooms and is a popular with businesses travellers due to its 16 high-tech meeting and function rooms.

For more information visit here

Flippin' Recipies - No Noggenfogger for You! *And.....4.1.0 on PTR!

Just before posting this morning, Blizz just added patch 4.0.1 on the PTR. While this is both good and bad news for some, (especially those selling current epics). The positives are in the test realm, you need a i354 to queue for the new heroics, so I can see the crafted epics and BoE's to start selling a bit better as people want to be the first to get into there...even into the patch.

The bad is, well, they are only telling us a little bit so far. Now before you freak out about the return of ZA in heroic form, note that they announced you will not have a chance to grab any of the bears that dropped originally....ho hum.

For the PTR notes, feel free to check with wowhead, as there isn't enough out yet to utilize a full post!

This post is directly involved with my Coaching program that you see me advertise above this post and on a seperate page. You see, a few weeks ago, I had a customer that had used the program, as he was having issues making gold and couldn't find niche no matter how hard he tried, he would only make a few K's a week. He mentioned that since our appointment, he is sitting around 240K (the highest he has ever been) and it would be 360K yet he bought a Spectral Tiger...nice, huh? Well enough with the advertising there, lets get to the point. I keep in contact with these folks, as they know there is an open end on my side for further questions, so I get quite a few emails and skypes from them asking a question or two, or just updating me on what's up......

Earlier this evening, I saw my Skype pop up saying I had a message, and I thought I would share [with you] a brief conversation I had with him:

[8:05:21 PM] Hmm quick question, I made 4 BoE's for about 8-9k, I sold one for 4k, this guy said he'd give me 3k for a BoE chest? a bit low u think?
[8:06:26 PM] Altos Goldish Advice: yup. whats the AH price? How much did you spend on your mats for that one?
[8:07:11 PM] in AH its 4.5k. I said id go 4k, and he said 3k, the orbs were 300g a piece, so thats 900g there.
[8:07:23 PM] I farmed the fires, and bought like 20 of the airs around 15g a piece.
[8:07:41 PM] Altos Goldish Advice: tell him meet in the middle. 3.5K.
[8:07:45 PM] ok
[8:08:33 PM] Sold 2 wyrmhide pieces today, One for 1k and the other for 800 =]
[8:09:12 PM] Altos Goldish Advice: nice, things are rocking. those are selling faster than i thought! you get more up right away?
[8:09:22 PM] yeah, I relisted the ones that sold.
[8:10:05 PM] I've noticed the Corded Viper belt I get alot of whispers for that, I've sold around 4-5 of those so far I think.
[8:13:15 PM] I've got 39 arcanite crystals, I was thinking of turning those into arcanite bars. cus theres hardly any of those on the AH. But I think it might be hard to find a alchemist with that pattern.
[8:14:45 PM] Altos Goldish Advice: a unlimited recipe in tanaris....
[8:14:59 PM] The arcanite bars?
[8:15:23 PM] Altos Goldish Advice: the transmute
[8:15:35 PM] Yeah, i've asked like 3 xmute masters.. none of them had the formula.
[8:15:45 PM] Altos Goldish Advice: go buy it for them...
[8:16:02 PM] Altos Goldish Advice: they will appreciate it. they are cheap.
[8:16:09 PM] I never knew it was a recipe in tanaris.
[8:16:32 PM] Altos Goldish Advice: see, i am good for something once in a while
[8:16:38 PM] Altos Goldish Advice: haha
[8:16:41 PM]  lol =]
[8:20:35 PM] Altos Goldish Advice: btw, dont' forget to pick up a few on the AH and sell em. You just made my post for tomorrow... =)
[8:21:27 PM] Oh.. that might be smart, buying a few of those patternsposting them on AH, then ask for a xmute master to buy the pattern on the ah?
[8:21:30 PM] =]
[8:21:59 PM] Altos Goldish Advice: nah, if they are your buds, just toss em one for doing it for you. then gouge the AH for 100g.
[8:22:07 PM] Yeah
[8:22:11 PM] Altos Goldish Advice: you got the right idea!
[8:22:25 PM] How many would you suggest buying?
[8:23:08 PM] Altos Goldish Advice: I would buy 5 and toss up one at a time.

Now I hope you are understanding where this is going. Since Cata, and really since Wrath, there have been quite a few people that have "powerleveled" professions, and didn't take the time to get the un-needed recipies for their prof. And you can see from the conversation, he had checked with three of   them on his server, and none had the Recipe: Transmute Arcanite.

This reminded me to do the same. Tanaris has always been a hotspot (really any of the "neutral" AH locations are as well) but I am foucusing on Gadgetan.

Instead of saying, "go here, buy this, go there, buy that, bla, bla, bla, you are just gonna cruise around, and buy everything. Limited items pick up the one, and the other recipies/formula/patterns, grab a stack of five. Make sure that your bags are empty, as they add up quite fast...if they fill, there is a mailbox nest to the inn to utilize.

*Edit:

Jim had a great tip on grabbing vendor goods, there is an addon that's available called Recipe Profit, and as long as you are using Gathermate, it will show the limited supply vendor recipies to your mininmap. Thanks for the comment Jim!

Now there are others, I just didn't get all the screenshots, you know the drill. The main focus we have is the Transmute Arcanite. Now of course, you want to check your AH and see if they are up for sale, and I can basically say that unless you have die hard vendor snatchers, you will probably be rolling solo. Mark the price with what you feel fair (I just said a straight 100g, but do your bidding, you can choose anything...it is tought to go with too much more than that, just try to keep one listed at all times).

Oh, before I forget to tell you, don't you forget your Noggenfogger while you are there. Can't forget that. Don't forget that. Now that you have stock, go find the Time Lost Proto Drake..... =)

Gold and Silver continuing their safe haven rally

NEW YORK (TheStreet) -- Daniel Wills, research analyst at ETF Securities, says that recent inflows into their gold and silver ETFs show a shift in investor sentiment.Investors Turn to Gold and Silver ETFs
silver prices continuing their safe haven rally on Wednesday. Because gold indexes and the spot price up more than eight dollars joining me -- Daniel wills research analyst for ETF securities. And Daniel we have gold -- up you know 5% in February silver up. 17%. For the month. Have these metal run too far too fast.

Obama administration will no longer defend section 3 of DOMA...what now?

The Justice Department has just announced that it will no longer defend the constitutionality of Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). That's the section that defines a married couple for federal law purposes as a man and a woman. The announcement comes in the context of cases pending in the Second US Circuit Court of Appeals brought by GLAD and the ACLU.

Nothing will change right away. The administration will continue to enforce DOMA as written. And it will do everything possible to facilitate the ability of Members of Congress to enter the litigation for the purpose of defending the statute. I am certain they will do so. The administration will wait until a final judicial ruling in the cases (or repeal by Congress) to change its approach to married same-sex couples.

The reasoning behind the decision is as important as the decision itself. DOJ and the President have concluded that sexual orientation should be considered a "suspect classification" under the Equal Protection Clause of the Constitution. That means that all distinctions between gay and straight people would have to be justified as "necessary" to achieve a "compelling state interest." (That's hard to do.) But the US Supreme Court has the final word on Equal Protection analysis, and NYU law prof Kenji Yoshino has a recent article in the Harvard Law Review explaining why the Court is unlikely to expand at all the list of groups entitled to suspect class status.

DOJ released its statement as I was putting the final touches on a short commentary I've written as part of a colloquium of the Harvard Civil Rights-Civil Liberties Law Review centered around a piece by Northeastern law prof Libby Adler critiquing the "equal rights" framework for its limitations in meeting the needs of LGBT people. My commentary focuses specifically on the DOMA litigation that is the subject of this DOJ opinion. (How timely of me!)

Basically, I explain that treating married same-sex couples as married under federal law will help some couples but it will hurt others. That's because not all marriages are equal under federal law. Marriages that are based on the single breadwinner, stay-at-home mom model make out like bandits. They pay less in federal income tax and they get much more in social security benefits than marriages in which the two spouses are closer-to-equal earners. In fact, with respect to social security, all of us, including equal earning spouses, heavily subsidize the white family form of 1939 that lawmakers had in mind when they created social security spousal benefits. Eliminate DOMA and all of us, including same-sex married couples with two close-to-equal earning spouses, will continue to subsidize that 1939 model; but now the model will encompass same-sex couples with one high income earner. The close-to-equal earners will also get socked with the marriage penalty when they pay their income taxes; the traditionally gendered model will get a huge marriage bonus.

I understand that this is the consequence of an equal rights framework. Same-sex married couples get what different-sex married couples have. That doesn't make it just. Imagine a world in which our tax and benefit structure did not privilege single high wage earner married couples. Apparently that is harder to achieve than federal recognition of same-sex marriages. But if we care about real world impact on the lives of lesbians and gay men, we should be looking for justice, since most of us are not married couples with a single high wage earner.

There will be much rejoicing today. From a gay civil rights perspective there's much to be happy about. But economic justice and fair family policies are another matter, and I won't throw a victory party til we have those.