Looking for cheap wedding favors?
Wedding Favors on a Budget Ideas Advice Little White Book.
Theyre not mandatory, so why waste precious wedding dollars on these seemingly frivolous items? Before brushing this task aside due to budget constraints, realize that wedding favors offer a relatively inexpensive outlet for you to demonstrate your creativity and set your wedding apart from the rest.
10 Wedding Favors Under 1 Super Cheap Wedding Favor Ideas. 10 Wedding Favors Under 1 Super Cheap Wedding Favor Ideas.
Buy some graham crackers, chocolate bars, and marshmallows in bulk and bag the ingredients up for individual build-your-own Smores wedding favors. Adding a punny label like this one from The Flair Exchange takes it from cheap to chic. The Flair Exchange.
Bulk Wedding Supplies. 40% off All Lemax Spooky Town Collection. BULK BULK BUYS. bulk bulk buys. All bulk bulk buys. FREE SHIPPING EVERY DAY ON THOUSANDS OF ITEMS Online Orders 49 Ship Free / Free In-Store Returns Details. NO PROMO CODE REQUIRED.
DIY Weddings: Party Favor Projects and Ideas DIY.
Great for centerpieces and favors alike, potted succulents are a wedding trend that is only getting more popular with time. Don't' forget to personalize them like Chelsea Costa of Lovely Indeed did here by painting the pots with your wedding colors!
More Best of 2017 Do Better 2018 DIY 42 Wedding Favors Your Guests Will Actually Want. No one should feel pinges of guilt at your wedding when they decide to throw out your useless wedding favor. So make it something indispensable, as opposed to just putting more crap out there into the world.
Cheap Wedding Favors Inexpensive Favors MyWeddingFavors.com.
Any one of these lovely and cheap wedding favors would enhance even the most elegant wedding reception tables. Were all saving our pennies, and My Wedding Favors is here to make sure you have the wedding of your dreams without budget nightmares.
25 DIY Wedding Favors for Any Budget.
Wedding Favors Gifts Favors DIY Favors Gifts Guests Gifts. 34 Affordable Wedding Favors You Wont Believe Are Under 1. Looking for wedding favor ideas that are inexpensive, but dont look it? Find cheap wedding favors that barely cost a thingand your guests will love.
50 Creative Wedding Favors That Will Delight Your Guests Martha Stewart Weddings.
Boozy Favors to Keep the Party Going Post-Wedding. 26 Chocolate Wedding Favors That Are Too Sweet To Pass Up. 13 Destination Wedding Favors That Gave a Nod to Their Celebration's' Location. 73 Edible Wedding Favors Guests Will Eat Up Literally!
9 Cheap, DIY Wedding Favor Ideas on a Budget.
How did you save money on your wedding favors? 45.6K Views Facebook Tweet Pin LinkedIn. 10 Cheap DIY Wedding Reception Centerpiece Ideas on a Budget. 7 New Wedding Trends That Could Save You Money on Your Reception. 16 Ways to Save Money on Cheap DIY Wedding Invitations on a Budget.
Cheap Wedding Favors Little Things Favors.
Destination Wedding Favors. Home Shop All Wedding Favors Cheap Wedding Favors. Cheap Wedding Favors Wedding Favors Under 1. Here at Little Things, we pride ourselves on offering lots of cheap wedding favors because we understand that weddings are expensive! Luckily, your favors don't' have to be.
100 Unique Wedding Favor Ideas Shutterfly.
Divine Elegance Wedding Invitation. Tagged: unique wedding favors, wedding favor ideas, wedding favors. 60 Anniversary Quotes for Your Husband. How to Address and When To Send Save The Dates For Your Wedding. Wedding RSVP Wording and Card Etiquette for Brides and Guests.


You will find the location position on the front page of your plans. You will need to drill 2 holes through the monorail and then through the seat for the bolts and wingnuts. For the record, the fittings/holes that are already in the row wing are not for use with the Wherry.
Give me a call here at the shop if you are still having a hard time.


Ten--L.Washington 3 pass from Z.Mettenberger (R.Succop kick), 14:40.
Bal--J.Forsett 9 run (J.Tucker kick), 8:17.
Bal--J.Forsett 11 run (J.Tucker kick), 9:24.
Bal--T.Smith 32 pass from J.Flacco (J.Tucker kick), 1:51.
TEN: B.Sankey 17-58, S.Greene 3-5, L.Washington 1-3, K.Wright 1-1.
BAL: J.Forsett 20-112, B.Pierce 8-31, L.Taliaferro 3-10, J.Flacco 3-(-2).
TEN: K.Wright 4-53, D.Walker 3-37, B.Sankey 3-19, N.Washington 2-30, L.Washington 2-12, J.Hunter 1-17, J.Battle 1-11.
BAL: T.Smith 5-75, K.Juszczyk 3-26, S.Smith 3-17, O.Daniels 2-20, M.Brown 2-18, K.Aiken 1-13.


text:
package com.metamx.tranquility.finagle

import com.metamx.common.scala.Logging
import com.metamx.common.scala.Predef._
import com.metamx.common.scala.net.curator._
import com.metamx.common.scala.net.finagle.DiscoResolver
import com.twitter.finagle.Name
import com.twitter.finagle.builder.ClientBuilder
import com.twitter.finagle.http.Http
import com.twitter.finagle.Service
import com.twitter.finagle.ServiceProxy
import com.twitter.util.Future
import com.twitter.util.Time
import java.util.concurrent.atomic.AtomicBoolean
import org.jboss.netty.handler.codec.http.HttpRequest
import org.jboss.netty.handler.codec.http.HttpResponse
import org.scala_tools.time.Implicits._
import scala.collection.mutable

/**
 * Registry of shared Finagle HTTP Curator-discovered services. The services can be returned by closing them. When
 * the last reference to a service has been returned, the service is closed.
 */
class FinagleRegistry(config: FinagleRegistryConfig, disco: Disco) extends Logging
{
  private[this] val lock     = new AnyRef
  private[this] val resolver = new DiscoResolver(disco)
  private[this] val clients  = mutable.HashMap[String, SharedService[HttpRequest, HttpResponse]]()

  private[this] def mkclient(service: String) = {
    val client = ClientBuilder()
      .name(service)
      .codec(Http())
      .dest(Name.Bound(resolver.bind(service), "%s!%s" format (resolver.scheme, service)))
      .hostConnectionLimit(config.finagleHttpConnectionsPerHost)
      .timeout(config.finagleHttpTimeout.standardDuration)
      .logger(FinagleLogger)
      .daemon(true)
      .failFast(config.finagleEnableFailFast)
      .build()
    new SharedService(
      new ServiceProxy(client)
      {
        override def close(deadline: Time) = {
          // Called when the SharedService decides it is done
          lock.synchronized {
            log.info("Closing client for service: %s", service)
            clients.remove(service)
          }
          try {
            super.close(deadline)
          } catch {
            case e: Exception =>
              log.warn(e, "Failed to close client for service: %s", service)
              Future.Done
          }
        }
      }
    ) withEffect {
      _ =>
        log.info("Created client for service: %s", service)
    }
  }

  def checkout(service: String): Service[HttpRequest, HttpResponse] = {
    val client = lock.synchronized {
      clients.get(service) match {
        case Some(c) =>
          c.incrementRefcount()
          c

        case None =>
          val c = mkclient(service)
          clients.put(service, c)
          c
      }
    }
    val closed = new AtomicBoolean(false)
    new ServiceProxy(client) {
      override def close(deadline: Time) = {
        // Called when the checked-out client wants to be returned
        if (closed.compareAndSet(false, true)) {
          client.close(deadline)
        } else {
          log.warn("WTF?! Service closed more than once by the same checkout: %s", service)
          Future.Done
        }
      }
    }
  }
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


Increasing SEO is a game of patience. Large changes in traffic volume will not immediately happen. It will actually take months or longer for new sites. It takes time for an online business to establish a name, just like traditional businesses.
If you need to get more traffic on a website, you should look at the content you have first and be sure you work on improving it. When website visitors don't see relevant information that they want to see and read, they will leave. One of the best ways to bring more visitors in is to work on your content.
Site maps allow search engines to index all pages from your site. A site map can help a search engine find pages on your site more easily. An XML site map will help search engine spiders review your content quickly, thus raising your ranking.
Diversify and specialize your content to expand your website into a metropolis of fabulous information. If you have a few pages with broad topics, you have less for the search engines to index and readers won't have a reason to read it since it won't have much information. Many pages with very topical information, give the search engines more to look at and your audience something worth reading.


Below you fill find all funeral homes and cemeteries in or near Millen.
Suburbs of Millen: Birdsville, Butts, Emmalane, Scarboro, Thrift.
Zip codes in the city: 30442.
Jenkins County funeral flowers can be purchased from one of the local funeral shops we partner with.
Tomlinson Funeral Home is continuing a tradition of local family ownership that began in 1933. Our mission is to provide professional, personal service to each family that we serve with dignity and respect.
It was noted by Charlotte Observer on December 16th, 2018 that Mary G Vinson passed away in Davidson, North Carolina. Vinson was 92 years old and was born in Millen, GA. Send flowers to share your condolences and honor Mary G's life.
It was written on February 1st, 2018 that Beauty Mae Harvey perished in Clearwater, Florida. Harvey was 91 years old and was born in Millen, GA. Send flowers to express your sympathy and honor Beauty Mae's life.
It was revealed by Sarasota Herald-Tribune on December 21st, 2017 that Edward Arthur Yager passed on in Sarasota, Florida. Yager was 69 years old and was born in Millen, GA. Send flowers to express your sympathy and honor Edward Arthur's life.
It was noted by Topeka Capital-Journal on April 30th, 2017 that Lewis C Carter perished in Holton, Kansas. Carter was 93 years old and was born in Millen, GA. Send flowers to express your sorrow and honor Lewis C's life.
It was reported by Arkansas Democrat/Gazette on March 16th, 2014 that Mary Sowell (Burke) died in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Ms. Sowell was 85 years old and was born in Millen, GA. Send flowers to share your condolences and honor Mary's life.
It was reported by The Daily Journal on December 27th, 2013 that George E Sr Sapp passed on in Hopewell Twp, New Jersey. Sapp was 89 years old and was born in Millen, GA. Send flowers to express your sympathy and honor George E Sr's life.
It was reported by Knoxville News-Sentinel on April 10th, 2013 that Virgil Lee Wwigins passed away in Seymour, Tennessee. Wwigins was 95 years old and was born in Millen, GA. Send flowers to share your condolences and honor Virgil Lee's life.
It was disclosed by Tampa Tribune on November 15th, 2012 that Carrie Edna Shearouse (Flanders) perished in Tampa, Florida. Ms. Shearouse was 96 years old and was born in Millen, GA. Send flowers to express your sympathy and honor Carrie Edna's life.
It was revealed by Tampa Tribune on November 15th, 2012 that Carrie Edna Shearouse (Flanders) passed away in Tampa, Florida. Ms. Shearouse was 96 years old and was born in Millen, GA. Send flowers to share your condolences and honor Carrie Edna's life.
It was disclosed by The Macon Telegraph on May 8th, 2012 that William Clyde Barber passed away in Millen, Georgia. Barber was 52 years old. Send flowers to express your sympathy and honor William Clyde's life.
The city is the county seat of Jenkins County, Georgia County . Millen is a city in Jenkins County, Georgia County, Georgia (US state) United States. The population was 3,492 at the 2000 census. . .
The official website for the city of Millen is http://www.milledgevillega.us.
Listing all funeral homes in Millen, Georgia so you can easily send flowers to any location (same day delivery) or find any funeral service.
Fields, Robert - Crowe-Fields Funeral Home, Millen, GA : Reviews and maps - Yahoo! Local, 478.982.5222. Get Ratings, Reviews, Photos and more on Yahoo! Local.
Find embalmers & Embalmers in Millen, GA. Read business reviews, find driving directions, and more. embalmers on YP.COM.
We work with local florists and flower shops to offer same day delivery. You will find budget sympathy flowers in Millen here. Our funeral flowers are cheap in price but not in value.


I hope you all had a great holiday season. We are off and running this semester.
Winter Commissioning: On December 20th, we commissioned 2 new officers from the Buckeye Battalion. 2LT Sean Coolidge (Active Duty Nurse) and 2LT Michael Mann (Active Duty Infantry). These two Cadets are the 10,420th and 10,421st Ohio State Army ROTC Officers commissioned. Congratulations!
New Cadet Orientation. The semester started with new Cadet Orientation. We had a jump in new Cadets this semester. 28 new students enrolled in ROTC between the fall and spring semester. Our recruiting officer, Mr. Sargent and Gold Bar Recruiter, 2LT Jeremy Jett, did an outstanding job bringing in new recruits, but many of the new Cadets were drawn to ROTC by current Cadets. This is a positive trend and we will continue to aggressively recruit quality candidates.
Military Ball: The Military Ball is fast approaching. It will be on Friday, the 26th of February, at 1800 at the Ohio Union Archie Griffin Ball Room. Our guest speaker this year is the Commander of TRANSCOM, General McDew. If you are interested in attending, please let me know. You are always welcome at any of our events.
Men's Basketball Team: The Buckeye Battalion has established an Army ROTC Basketball team. The team will compete in the 30th Annual National ROTC Basketball Tournament at Notre Dame in February. The tournament consists of 36 teams from across the country and includes Army, Air Force, and Naval ROTC programs. We held tryouts late last semester and selected 12 Cadets to complete against teams from Syracuse, Nebraska, Texas A&M, Kentucky, Michigan, Purdue, Marquette, Virginia Tech and Kansas to name a few.
Women's Soccer Team: The Buckeye battalion also established a women's soccer team. The team will compete in the intermural indoor soccer league on campus, but also will compete in tournaments around the Columbus area. This team also plans to visit local high schools and educate the students about ROTC while playing soccer with the school teams.
Spring Awards Board: We conducted our annual Spring Awards Board and selected more than 30 deserving Cadets for awards. Last year the Alumni Society awarded over $29,000 in scholarships to Cadets. This year we will award over $36,000!!! That is amazing. I can't thank you enough for your generosity. I think you will find that the selected Cadets are more than deserving of the awards. They look forward to meeting you at the Spring Awards/Hall of Fame Dinner.
BuckeyeThon: many of you have received the email from cadet Lamp, but the Cadets have formed an Army ROTC BuckeyeThon team to raise money for Nationwide Children's Hospital Cancer Research. The team is attempting to raise $250 per team member and all proceeds will go to Nationwide Children's Hospital. If you have not received the email from Cadet Lamp and are interested in supporting the team, please contact him at lamp.56@buckeyemail.osu.edu. This is a great cause and the idea originated with the Cadets. It speaks to their selfless service and commitment to the community.


text:
Q: How to Encrypt/Decrypt query string data I render an ActionLink like this:
@Html.ActionLink(techName, "Details","Home", new { TopicID = item.TechID },null)

I would like to encrypt the query string, something like this: Home/Details?TopicID=Ek7vP1YwVhc=
I searched on this topic and found a piece of code to encrypt and decrypt the data:
(new MvcSerializer()).Serialize(<Your data here>, SerializationMode.EncryptedAndSigned)

And then to reverse the process...

(new MvcSerializer()).Deserialize(<Serialized data here>, SerializationMode.EncryptedAndSigned)

How to use the above approach to encrypt and decrypt my query string?

A: You say you wish to encrypt (prevent eavesdroppers from being able to look at secret data), but it sounds more like you want to encode - to format data such that it can safely be used as a URI component.
The example you show looks like base64:
var base64EncodedText = Convert.ToBase64String(System.Text.Encoding.UTF8.GetBytes(myText));

Another approach is Uri.EscapeString:
var uriEncodedText = Uri.EscapeString(myText);

The latter only changes special characters and thus may look more human-readable. This can be an advantage or a disadvantage.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
The Great North
Watch The Great North Online
Follow the Alaskan adventures of the Tobin family as a single dad does his best to keep his weird bunch of kids close, especially as the artistic dreams of his only daughter lead her away from the family fishing boat and into the glamorous world of the local mall.
Director: Lizzie Molyneux-Logelin, Minty Lewis, Wendy Molyneux
Actors: Jenny Slate, Megan Mullally, Nick Offerman, Will Forte
Networks: FOX
Tags:Series 2021
Watch Emerald City Full Series Online. In the blink of a tornado's eye, 20-year-old Dorothy Gale and her K9 police dog are transported to another world, one far removed from…
Watch Pose Full Series Online. A dance musical that explores the juxtaposition of several segments of 1980s life and society in New York: the ball culture world, the rise of…
Watch Secret Diary of a Call Girl Full Series Online. It's her business doing pleasure with you. A witty and provocative series based on the real-life adventures of a high-class…
Watch Kingdom Full Series Online. A raw family drama set against the world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) in Venice, California. Alvey Kulina owns Navy St. MMA with the help…
Watch Entourage Full Series Online. Film star Vince Chase navigates the vapid terrain of Los Angeles with a close circle of friends and his trusty agent.
Watch Hospital Full Series Online. The story of the NHS in unprecedented times.
Watch One-Punch Man Full Series Online. Saitama is a hero who only became a hero for fun. After three years of "special" training, though, he's become so strong that he's…
Guy's Grocery Games
Watch Guys Grocery Games Full Series Online. Guy Fieri sends four talented chefs running through the aisles in a high stakes, high skills, grocery store cooking competition. The chefs are…
Retrospective look at ten seasons of Gallagher trials and tribulations
Watch How I Met Your Mother Full Series Online. A father recounts to his children – through a series of flashbacks – the journey he and his four best friends…
Watch Cold Feet Full Series Online. Follow the lives and loves of a group of thirtysomethings in a heart-warming comic drama as they try to find true love – or…
Watch Bachelor in Paradise Full Series Online. Some of The Bachelor's biggest stars and villains are back. They all left The Bachelor or The Bachelorette with broken hearts, but now…
Trailer: The Great North

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


A new tutorial on FBA and other constraint-based methods using the COBRA Toolbox and the Core E. coli Model, from Nature Biotechnology.
An FBA primer(http://www.nature.com/nbt/web_extras/supp_info/nbt0201_125/info_frame.html) from Nature Biotechnology.
Orth, J.D., Thiele, I., and Palsson, B.Ø. What is flux balance analysis?. Nature Biotechnology, 28: 245-248 (2010).
Edwards,J.S., Covert, M., and Palsson, B.Ø. Metabolic Modeling of Microbes: the Flux Balance Approach. Environmental Microbiology, 4(3): pp. 133-140 (2002).


When searching for property for sale, we all want to find the right property close to all our daily activities. We all have our own personal wants and needs, and perhaps you've decided to look for homes for sale that are close to your children's schools. Our school search functionality allows you to put your preferences at the heart of your search and find property near the schools your children attend.


text:
require('test');
var a = require('a');
var b = require('b');
var c = require('c');
var d = require('d');
var e = require('e');
var f = require('f');
var g = require('g');
var h = require('h');
var i = require('i');


They say summer bodies are made in winter.
But someone needs to tell that to the baked mac n cheese I just ate last night, because neither it nor I got the memo. As swimsuit season fast approaches, a lot of us start feeling a little less than confident in what all those Christmas cookies and rich, potato-filled stews did to our bods in the winter months.
I feel you. And while I personally am a proponent of eating stuff you love and working out with the first motivation being health over anything, I can't blame anyone for wanting to beat the belly bulge a little before sun dress weather hits. Luckily, there are 5 moves and one affordable shake you can incorporate into your routine to get back in tip top shape!
Because all food is good food, let's start with that drink, shall we?
Here's why they work well together.
Cucumbers are 90% water, and half the battle in losing weight is staying hydrating and staying full. The water content in cucumbers will help you kill two birds with one stone. Lemon is great because it promotes bowel movements and flushes that system right on out. Ginger has a thermogenic effect, which helps burn calories when the body digests food. Mint has been shown to aid in digestion as well. Pop those babies in a blender, pour, and add ice if you so desire.
Now for the not-at-all-fun part: Working out. These five moves will help you kiss belly fat goodbye.
Cardio: I know, I know. It's not fun, but calorie burn is your best friend when you're trying to rock some abs. You can do crunches 'til the cows come home but if you have a layer of fat over your abs (which most of us do) then all that work will be for naught. Something as simple as walking on an incline for 30 minutes to an hour a few times a week is a great way to burn fat.
Rowing: While this is known for its great effect on the back an arms, rowing is also amazing for the core. Start with 20 seconds of rowing followed by 10 seconds of rest and repeat for 8 minutes. Try to beat your previous distance rowed with each new set.
BOSU Ball Planking: Plank work is amazing for the abs, and adding the element of balance will work your core even harder. Place your elbows on the BOSU ball instead of on the ground and do a plank. You'll feel this in your abs as you try to stay balanced. You can also do this with your elbows on the ground and your feet on the ball.
Burpees: These are so brutal but there's a reason why every athlete under the sun does them: They work. To do a burpee, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Then lower your body until your palms rest on the floor, shoulder-width apart. After that, kick your legs back so you're in a pushup position. Do a pushup and then quickly jump to a standing position.
Kettle Bell Swing: Grab a kettle bell and start with your body slightly hinged at the hips. Hold the kettle bell at arms length out in front of you and then push it back between your legs, following that motion immediately with a swing up to shoulder height. Repeat for as long as you can.
What's great is that aside from rowing, unless you have a machine at home, you can totally do all of these workouts from the comfort of home! I don't know about you, but I see cucumber drinks and kettle bell swings in my future.


This is a similar rubber gasket locking tool to the RGT1, but instead of the tip coming to a rounded point, it has a round steel ball on the end. Once the steel ball is inserted into the rubber gasket, it is difficult for it to come out. If it should slip out of the gasket, the steel ball will help prevent it from scratching the paint.
The tools I received were very well made and good value.
Best bang for the buck in a whilw.
I couldn't imagine a better tool for closing self-locking rubber gaskets.
Perfectly balanced and angled tool for working the windshield gasket into my '70 C-10 pickup. The handle is heavy, square, and balanced just right with subtle grooves for just the right grip. The curved ball end slides along the pinch weld groove effortlessly (with a soaped-up gasket). I was able to install my windshield by myself with this tool and a couple of suction cups. Couldn't be happier with my purchase!


text:
Tower Theatre Upper Darby, PA, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Landmark Theatre Syracuse, NY, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Benedum Center for the Performin... Pittsburgh, PA, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Morris Performing Arts Center South Bend, IN, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Lake Theatre Oak Park, IL, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Arcada Theater St. Charles, IL, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Woodstock Theatre Woodstock, IL, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
York Theatre Elmhurst, IL, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Chicago Theatre Chicago, IL, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Catlow Art Center Barrington, IL, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Warner Theatre Torrington, CT, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Bob Hope Theatre Stockton, CA, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Towne 3 Cinemas San Jose, CA, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Paramount Center for the Arts Peekskill, NY, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Avalon Theatre Easton, MD, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Old Greenbelt Theatre Greenbelt, MD, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Cinestudio Hartford, CT, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Esquire Theatre Denver, CO, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Embassy Theatre Fort Wayne, IN, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Paramount Theatre Asbury Park, NJ, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Palace Theater Lake Placid, NY, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Majestic Theater Dallas, TX, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Liberty Theatre Camas, WA, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Orpheum Theatre San Francisco, CA, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Orpheum Theatre Phoenix, AZ, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Peery's Egyptian Theater Ogden, UT, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Rafael Film Center San Rafael, CA, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Pantages Theater Tacoma, WA, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Coleman Theatre Miami, OK, United States Open Dec 7, 2000
Regency Village Theatre Los Angeles, CA, United States Open Dec 7, 2000


Strategically located between Phoenix and Tucson in the high growth Sun Corridor, Maricopa is poised for continued success. Celebrating its 15th anniversary in 2018, Maricopa's youth belies its sophistication and significant progress as a start-up city.
Maricopa was incorporated in October 2003 with a population of 3,200. Today, more than 50,000 people proudly call themselves Maricopans.
The City's elected, business and civic leaders work vigorously to build the New American City – one in which people of all walks of life and backgrounds can realize their aspirations for lifestyle, work and business enterprise.
As a new American city – just 15 years old – Maricopa is a sophisticated community with a small town, neighborly vibe. People have moved here because of the city's quality of life, affordability and vast range of things to do where they can connect with their neighbors and all Maricopans to have fun, learn and recreate.
Maricopa offers the comforts of a safe, family-oriented community situated only 20 minutes southwest of Phoenix, 35 minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, just 15 minutes from Interstate 10 and 20 minutes from Interstate 8.
Maricopa's local workforce is highly educated and skilled, with more than 46 percent of heads of households holding a bachelor's degree or higher and 89 percent with some post-high school education.
Historically an agricultural community, Maricopa is emerging as a regional hotbed for the agritech industry. Maricopa is home to a thriving cluster of local agritech businesses and research facilities, including the USDA Arid-Land Agricultural Research Center and the University of Arizona Maricopa Agricultural Center. Researchers at these centers work to develop new technologies and solutions to problems faced by crop consumers and producers. Partnerships with the private sector have led to the commercialization of innovative agricultural products and have helped launch a number of agritech startups.
Leaders in sustainability sectors also have been drawn to Maricopa. Pinal Energy opened Arizona's first ethanol plant in Maricopa and Marisol Energy 2 has proposed a 1,492-acre Maricopa Solar Park project on federal land near the City. Beem Biologics operates an R&D lab and production facility for ISO NPK – a naturally sourced, non-toxic and certified organic bio fertilizer that significantly increases crop yield to growers.
Maricopa is paving the way in vehicle research and development for the automotive industry. Both Volkswagen and Nissan operate their North American proving grounds in Maricopa, where they test both prototype and new vehicles for performance in certain climatic conditions.
A number of exciting projects have recently been completed in Maricopa, including the opening of Central Arizona College's Maricopa Campus, and the Copper Sky Multigenerational/Aquatics Center and 98-acre Copper Sky Regional Park.
Also underway are the Estrella Gin Business Park, Apex Motorsports, Vintage Partners' Edison Pointe Retail Center, Copper Sky Commercial Complex and Maricopa Station.
Maricopa's City Center Complex, a 145 acre site that serves as the location of the City's beautiful, futuristic City Hall, also will be the site of major institutional uses, including higher education and research, as well as other public purpose buildings and meeting spaces.
business, we encourage you to contact Ms. Denyse Airheart, Economic Development Director at 520-316-6993 or Denyse.Airheart@maricopa-az.gov.
You can access more data about the City of Maricopa here.
Located between Phoenix and Tucson, Maricopa offers convenient access to major markets throughout the Southwest. Interstate 10, the southernmost coast-to-coast highway in the United States, is just 15 minutes from Maricopa along State Route 347 and directly connects to Phoenix, Tucson, and Los Angeles. Interstate 8, immediately south of Maricopa, runs west to San Diego and merges with Interstate 10 to the east.
Between 45 and 55 freight trains operate daily through Maricopa along the Union Pacific Railroad's Sunset Route. This route carries nearly 20% of Union Pacific's total freight traffic and stretches from Los Angeles to El Paso. In Maricopa, the route parallels the Maricopa-Casa Grande Highway and there are many available commercially-zoned sites with potential for rail-to-site.
Maricopa also offers passenger rail access and is the greater Phoenix area's Amtrak hub. Amtrak's Orlando-Los Angeles Sunset Limited has a scheduled stop in Maricopa, the only stop in the Phoenix metropolitan area.
Maricopa is just 32 miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, one of the 10 busiest airports in the United States. More than 100,000 passengers, 1,200 aircraft, and 800 tons of cargo pass through Sky Harbor each day. The airport is served by 17 major airlines with daily service to 80 domestic and 20 international destinations.
Business, government and education work well together in Maricopa, focusing on how we can leverage our collective strengths, resources and talents to continue to build a great city – one that offers the ability for children, youth, families and individuals to flourish and prosper.
1 Source: City of Maricopa Economic Development Department, May 2017. 2 Source: Safehome.org, 2016. 3 Source: SmartAsset.com, 2018. 4 Source: Niche.com, 2018. 5 Source: Kaboom.org, 2018.


Dartmouth football pulled out a win on the last play to defeat the co-defending Ivy League champion University of Pennsylvania, 16-13, at Franklin Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Friday night. With only three seconds left on 4th and goal, football head coach Buddy Teevens '79 dialed up a run. Quarterback Jared Gerbino '20 took the snap and punched it into the end zone as time expired, leading the Big Green to its third straight victory, improving to 3-0 on the season. With its first Ivy League win under its belt, along with a win against a College of the Holy Cross team that was then-ranked 25th in the FCS Coaches Poll, the Big Green seems to be poised for success going into the heart of its schedule.
Founded in the fall of 2013 by former members of the women's swimming team Kendall Farnham '14, Nina Mascia '15 Med'21 and Sara Heard '15, the Dartmouth triathlon team has grown from a small team on a shoestring budget to a team with approximately 30 members, boasting competitors who have excelled at the national level. Katie Clayton '18, Emma Sklarin '18 and Sonia Rowley '19 finished in the top 25 of the women's 20-24 age group at the USA Triathlon national championship in August and are qualified to race at the 2018 International Triathlon Union World Triathlon Grand Finale in Gold Coast, Australia.


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Ελληνικά | Technical University of Crete | Contact | Search
School of Production Enginering & Management
Master in Technology & Innovation Management
PhD and MSc graduation ceremony
Studies/
Master in Technology & Innovation Management/
Technology and Innovation are key drivers of competitive advantage in today's knowledge economy. Today's public or private organizations need skilled and innovative executives and chief officers who can not only develop and deploy critical technologies but also ensure that those enterprise technologies have a positive impact on business & organizations, employees, product & services and customers.
The Master in Technology & Innovation Management (MTIM) program builds upon the technical strengths of engineers and scientists by providing them with skills and knowledge to manage technology and innovation within their organizations. The MTIM program is suitable for those whose working in the public or private sectors.
MTIM is a one-year intensive interdisciplinary MSc program offered by the Technical University of Crete. It is coordinated by the School of Production Engineering and Management with the collaboration of the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering.
The course language of the program is English.
The courses are offered through an eLearning platform.
The MTIM program is designed for graduates from a wide range of academic backgrounds including Engineering Schools, Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology, Geology, Agriculture, Business Administration, Finance, Information Technology, Medical & Bio-medical, Military Academies and Technological Universities & Institutes from EU and non EU countries.
Call for applications for the Joint Postgraduate Program in 'Technology & Innovation Management'
The School of Production Engineering and Management and the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering of the Technical University of Crete organize a Joint Postgraduate Program in Technology and Innovation Management, and invites applications to the Program for the Academic Year 2022-2023.
The M.T.I.M. program is suitable for those who work in the public or private sector, especially on management and innovation issues, entrepreneurship, new product design and development, consumer behavior, innovation finance, innovation management and business negotiation, legal business issues, invention and intellectual property, business intelligence, e-business, big data analytics, new innovative technologies, etc. Through deeper knowledge, executives will be able to comprehend problems, trace opportunities and possibilities as well as evaluate the importance and effects on different businesses and sectors. Furthermore, they will be able to meet high demand and respond to the international competition, investing on new products and services establishment, as a result of technology and innovation use.
More information may be find either from the Program's website, www.mtim.tuc.gr, or from the School's Postgraduate Office (Mrs. Loukia Papadaki, tel. +302821037161 Email: mtim<at>tuc.gr).
2022-23 program's presentation
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© School of Production Engineering & Management


This Fan Information Guide is designed to. and restaurant services with features that celebrate Toronto and its rich baseball history.
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It was 1977 and I had a crush on a boy named Billy!
Billy had a head full of floppy blonde curls and a smile that melted my 10 year old heart! Like most grade school classes during that time, we exchanged Valentines. With my mom's help, I carefully crafted my Valentine box with white paper, doilies and hand painted hearts.
I was so excited when the day finally arrived and my fellow fifth graders and I happily stuffed Valentines and candies into the decorated boxes. I could hardly sit still waiting for the end of the day so I could tear into my box to see if the boy of my dreams gave me a Valentine as special as the one I gave him.
When was the last time you made Valentines and sent them to your friends?
Let's rekindle that childhood experience of cutting, gluing and coloring our own handmade Valentines.
Did Billy give me his "heart" on that day so long ago? Not exactly, but he did give me silly putty and I thought that was pretty cool!
>>>Want to explore printmaking with the GelliPlate? My Printmaker Pro Workshop will have you cranking out prints faster than you can redeem a Michaels coupon!


Source: (2000) Paper presented at the Annual Meeting of the American Educational Research Association, New Orleans, Louisiana, April 24-28.
James Van Patten and Jerry Siegrist open their paper with the observation that school safety is a topic of national debate due to the severity of student violence in recent years. There are no simple and quick fixes to the problem of school safety; the problems of the larger society are reflected in the culture of public schools. In this context, Van Patten and Siegrist explore a number of strategies for school administrators in addressing youth behavior problems. These include, among other strategies, psychological profiles of students, suicide prevention, management by walking around, restorative justice in schools, parental involvement, and more. Additionally, they discuss certain issues with respect to schools and the lives of students, such as the constitutional rights of students, religion and school dress, dress codes, and future trends in school safety.


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Category Archives: Sales & Events
Customizers, Dealers, Dioramas, Sales & Events
Beloved GIjOE and Toy Show Set for March 8-10, 2019
We LOVE when our far-reaching corps of fearless Field Reporters do our work for us. In this case, "Mighty" Marten Jallad recently contacted the news desk here at The Joe Report and submitted the following article he'd written about this year's upcoming Toylanta. As expected, it is thorough—and EXCELLENT. Thank you, Marten. Enjoy, everyone!
Marten Jallad (Photo: Marten Jallad)
"Earlier this year (in March) TOYLANTA (perhaps known better as "Joelanta") will celebrate its 18th year of spreading the love of all things toy-related. The show—as many of you already know—was initially created as a one-day event for local GI Joe and one-sixth scale collectors and GI Joe has remained the heart and soul of the show. The show has, however, continued to attract more and more varieties of toys, from the 1960s to present, and this explosion has led to changes, and at times, growing pains, as the show has now transformed into a multi-day convention under the banner—TOYLANTA."
"One thing that has been key to our continued growth and success is the vision that show co-founder, Buddy Finethy, put fourth; to host an event by collectors FOR collectors to celebrate our love of collecting and the creative process behind enhancing and displaying our "precious plastic." The amazing thing, from my perspective, is that that warm and friendly social atmosphere has transcended all the different groups that have now found a home at the convention, including Transformers, Star Wars, GI Joe RAH, and toy collectors in general. I truly love hearing folks say that everyone is so friendly, from the staff, to the vendors and the general public. Toylanta is a place for us to forget about the daily hardships of life and instead, to celebrate our mutual love of the wonder of brightly colored toys that allowed us to use our imaginations during endless hours of play."
The Hunt is On! Fans and toy collectors searched for their own personal "toy treasures" in one of the spacious dealer rooms of Toylanta 2018. (Photo: Marten Jallad) Click to enlarge.
"TOYLANTA now encompasses approximately 20,000 square feet with around 250 tables of toys, comics and pop culture. Events include panels, creative demonstrations, live music, Parachute Drop, film festival, EJ's Lobby Swap, Pop Culture Car Show, State of the Hobby panel discussions, a live auction and custom figure and diorama contests, not to mention social events (held each night) for the three nights leading up to the convention. This year, we are also moving the custom area to a bigger space to accommodate MORE dioramas, and are thrilled to have actor-artist-GIjOE RAH creator, Larry Hama, and GIjOE Classic Collection artist, Larry Selman, in attendance for autographs, prints, etc."
"The creative team has been hard at work on this year's Joelanta 12" exclusive: The Mountain Man. He will add to the rich history of the 12 (and counting) one-sixth scale exclusives. The World Famous EJ, King of the Lobby Swap, has also been working on his 5th annual Lobby Swap exclusive. We can't wait to see what his creative kit-bashing mind has come up with. We are also excited about our second RAH-style exclusive."
Seen any Beavers? Meet the "Mountain Man" of Toylanta 2019 (Photo: Marten Jallad)
"I'm often asked how we're able to put together such a big event—year after year—that attracts so many people from around the country—and the world. The key, I think, is all of the dedication and commitment we receive from so many helpers and friends, both locally and online. Our local GIjOE Collector's Club fan group meets together once a week at different people's homes to share a meal, talk toys and enjoy each other's company. This has been happening for over a decade! We are also bound to a higher goal of opening a Toy and Diorama Museum somewhere in the greater Atlanta area (as TOYLANTA is part of the nonprofit Cody Lane Memorial Museum). It has been a very challenging endeavor, but one that we are dedicated to making a reality."
"We encourage others to start a local fan group, hold a swap meet, or even start a show of their own in their local community. We are VERY proud of all the other cool shows out there, like the DFW GI Joe and Action Figure Show, the Kentuckiana GI Joe Toy Expo, the Augusta Toy and Comic Show featuring Joefest, and the upcoming Harrisburg Action Figure and Toy Show. Various members of the TOYLANTA crew have lent their talents and given creative and organizational input to assist those other ventures also be successful. Together, we believe we can continue to grow our hobby and keep that spark of creative sense of wonder and play alive in us all. We'll see you all March 8-10, 2019!" —Marten Jallad, Toylanta
Bottom Line: Our sincerest thanks and admiration go out to Marten and everyone at Toylanta who helps bring GIjOE fandom this truly wonderful event—every—single—year. You guys are the BEST!
Tagged Cody Lane Memorial Toy and Diorama Museum, Marten Jallad, Toylanta
Equipment Sets, Figures, GIjOE Collector's Clubs, New Products, Sales & Events, Shows
First Pic! 2015 JoeCon's 12″ Exclusive Revealed
Geronimo! A rough prototype pic of the box for the JoeCon 2015 12″ exclusive set. (Photo: GIjCC)
The GIjOE Collector's Club finally revealed today (in a newly released PDF file) that it is definitely creating an exclusive 12-inch figure for fans and collectors of the original 1:6 scale line. It's yet another parachute-themed set, this one dubbed "The Adventures Of G.I. Joe Test Pilot featuring Fantastic Freefall and Descent into Darkness." <phew!> The cover of the set's box (currently only visible in this low-resolution version) looks like it will be quite a nice tribute to the old "red top" boxes from 1969, combining an action photograph of the figure as it parachutes down with artwork of his '60s jet fighter going down in flames behind him. According to the club's description:
"This set commemorates the very short run of the 1969 "Adventures Of" series and features a 12" G.I. Joe Adventurer in a reproduction of a "red-top" long box along with his tan cap and pants, white t-shirt, dog tag, Label revolver, brown shoulder holster, and brown boots. He also comes with a reproduction Fantastic Freefall parachute accessory set and a new Descent into Darkness night-ops version of the same parachute accessory set.* All of these items will be packaged together in a display box featuring art from the "Adventures Of" era." ($340 for members, $410 for non-members)
Bottom Line: The GIjOE Collector's Club is famous for its outstanding 12-inch convention exclusives. Oddly, their description didn't list the Freefall pilot's key piece of equipment, his distinctive gold, white and black helmet with "G.I. Joe" stenciled on it, but we're sure that's going to be included (right?). Anyway, let's hope so. All in all, this appears to be real winner (if only it wasn't so EXPENSIVE). One final thing to remember: As the club continues phasing out 12-inch collectors, the quantities of their 1:6 scale products are sure to become more and more limited. Therefore, we recommend you keep your eyes peeled for future updates regarding its availability. We can't wait to see some more (sharper) photos of the actual set. Should be VERY cool! Go, JOE!
Tagged Fantastic Freefall, GIjOE Collector's Club, JoeCon 2015
Famous Names in GIjOE, Figures, History and Related Trivia, Miscellaneous Toy News, Sales & Events, Videos, DVDs & Podcasts
Auction STUNNER! Don Levine's CIA-Commissioned 1:6 Prototype Osama Bin Laden Action Figure Sells For $11,879.00 to Anonymous Collector
The winning bidder of Don Levine's controversial prototype Osama Bin Laden action figure also received a COA from the NDSA (and Levine's estate) confirming its unusual history. (Photo: NDSA)
The official bid window at the NDSA auction website revealed the final selling price of Levine's Osama Bin Laden prototype was a staggering $11,879. WOW!
Even in Death, "The Father of G.I. Joe," Don Levine, Continues to Make Action Figure History
When the auctioneer's hammer finally came down on Don Levine's prototype Osama Bin Laden action figure, its sale netted Levine's estate the tidy sum of $11,879.00. As most collectors of 1:6 scale GIjOEs already know, the CIA-commissioned origins behind Levine's most controversial creation have been well-documented here on The Joe Report, but this recent chapter in its unique history will undoubtedly make Don's OBL figure even more intriguing to fans. After the auction ended, we asked NDSA copywriter/rep, Ian Gould, for a comment and he replied:
Ian Gould, copywriter, Nate D. Sanders Auctions (Photo: Ian Gould)
"I can't reveal the identity of the final buyer, unfortunately. Generally, the bidding of the prototypes went fairly quietly. We received a few bids right at the end, 7 in total. The Osama Bin Laden figure was publicized in a number of media outlets, so when it sold for over $11,000, we thought that was pretty impressive. Russell Brand even did a bit about it on his show."
British comedian, Russell Brand, clearly relished discussing the OBL action figure and its auction in a video recently released on YouTube. (Photo: Russell Brand)
Bottom Line: While Bin Laden's real-life actions created misery for untold millions, it's comforting to know that the sale of this OBL prototype has yielded the family and estate of (a truly wonderful man) Don Levine, a modicum of financial benefit. Finally, there's been a (mostly) funny video (see below) made about this whole affair by British comedian, Russell Brand. Whatever your opinion of Brand and his views, his hyperactive dissection of Gould's copywriting and description of the OBL figure is pretty darn funny. Thankfully, Ian can clearly take Brand's ribbing, as he described the comedian's video about his writing this way:
"It was pretty cool, indeed. You never know what's going to happen at this job!"
(Editor's Note: Our thanks go out again to Ian Gould at Nate D. Sanders Auctions for his generous contributions to this article. You ROCK, Ian!)
Tagged Don Levine, Ian Gould, Nate D. Sanders Auctions, Osama Bin Laden, Russell Brand
Famous Names in GIjOE, Figures, Sales & Events, Unusual, Unique & Rare Items
Don Levine "Prototype" Auctions Continue with Controversial, CIA-Sanctioned 12-Inch (1:6 Scale) Osama Bin Laden "Devil-Eyed" Action Figure
Ugh. What an ugly mug! Will someone please buy this pathetic loser and then strap an M-80 to his back and do us all a favor by blowing him up ala Toy Story's Sid and (the late) "Combat Carl?" THANK YOU. (Photo: NDSA)
Don Levine, "The Father of GIjOE" and the creator of 3 Osama Bin Laden "Devil-Eyed" action figures for the CIA. (Photo: topnews)
Horrific, Historic Prototype Toy Currently Up For Sale to the Highest Bidder
Here we go again! In an unexpected follow-up to the recent Don Levine family estate auctions of assorted "prototype" GIjOEs, the family has now decided to sell Levine's highly controversial "Devil-Eyed" Osama Bin Laden action figure. As readers of The Joe Report will undoubtedly recall, we described these unusual "face changing" figures in an in-depth, shocking "tell-all" article, revealing Levine's previously unimagined, unheard of connections—with the CIA. We highly recommend you reread that article (found HERE) before considering the placement of any bid(s) for this undeniably unique (some say abhorrent) Levine collectible. According to the auction company's official description, this figure is further described as:
Target Practice, anyone? This front view of Levine's OBL prototype reveals it would make a perfect target for repeated "plinking" with your pellet rifle or .22. If there's anything left, we recommend you dip it in hamburger grease and toss it over the fence to the neighbor's pit bull. When he's done with it, we're sure some road construction crew would LOVE to let you borrow their steamroller and make a plastic pancake out of it. Enjoy! (Photo: NDSA) Click photo to enlarge.
"Scarce and nearly unbelievable prototype of Osama Bin Laden doll intended for use in Arab countries in order to persuade children from idolizing the terror leader. This prototype was covertly designed for the C.I.A. by Donald Levine (the creator of the iconic G.I. Joe doll) in 2005 for an "influence operation", intended to strategically distribute a scary depiction of Bin Laden to children, ideally to dissuade them from joining a terrorist group such as Al Qaeda. The project was discontinued after the prototypes were developed, with this prototype being one of just three in existence. The other two remain either at C.I.A. headquarters or the Pentagon.
This back view reveals more detail of OBL's "hideout" outfit. Why anyone would care is beyond us, but this is what the cowardly killer looked like from behind. (Photo: NDSA) Click photo to enlarge.
The doll's permanent head is a look-alike representation of Bin Laden, and comes with a removable head featuring a depiction of Bin Laden as a "demon". The removable head is a frightening representation of Bin Laden, with his face painted bright red with black facial features and bright green eyes. The doll wears traditional Islamic garb, a white removable five button robe over a four button white tunic with a mock collar, with off-white cloth pants and a pair of black mock velcro boots. The doll is affixed to a silver and white metal stand, with a clasp to the doll's midsection allowing the doll to be displayed standing up. Measures 12" tall. One small glue stain to the right bottom of the robe, and to the back of the removable head. Near fine. From the estate of G.I. Joe creator Donald Levine with a COA from his son."
In this screenshot from Disney's Toy Story, neighbor psycho, Sid, has strapped an M-80 to the back of his hostage GIjOE, er… "Combat Carl" with the intention of blowing him to smithereens. Will Levine's OBL prototype face a similar fate or enjoy a comfy life in some collector's display case? We shall see! (Photo: Disney)
Bottom Line: Yes, we know there are fans out there with 1:6 scale Himmler and Hitler figures in their display cases, professing that it's better to remember history than to risk repeating it. We get that, we really do. We agree with the statement 100% and don't begrudge ANY collector the right to decide what to collect or what not to collect. And we're only half-heartedly kidding when we talk about using such culpable, repugnant and reprehensible historical figures as "target practice." We know that if any 1:6 scaler is willing to spend these high 3 and 4-figure dollar amounts for 1:6 scum and villainy, it's not likely he or she would want to go out in their backyard and destroy it, watching their new figure (and investment) go up in smoke. But just imagine… Imagine if such a figure as this OBL were given to a NYC fire department. Or to an NYPD precinct. Wouldn't THAT be so much more satisfying than placing it in the back row of a dimly lit display case? Can you imagine what those REAL men would do with one of these pathetic, albeit rare, prototype OBL figures? We're sure they would have no end of deliciously destructive ideas. THAT would be a sight to behold. And to videotape. And to play over and over again! (Editor's Note: If you're interested in adding Osama to your own 1:6 scale "Murderers' Row," we recommend you visit the NDSA auction website HERE and place your bid. It's already up to $2,500!)
Tagged Don Levine, Osama Bin Laden, Prototype GIjOEs
Figures, GIjOE Collector's Clubs, Sales & Events
Goodbye, G.I. Joes———National Club Continues to "Thin Down" Its Supply of 12-Inch G.I. Joes That Have Been Out of Production for Many Years
Where have YOU been, Scuba Joe? When was the last time you saw this "Perilous Rescue" set in stores or for sale over on the club's website? We thought so. Well, its sudden appearance TODAY, still NMIB and available, is just one of many eye-openers for fans who thought the only place left to find such 1:6 treasure was on ebay or at collector conventions. But as of today, this sharp-dressed sailor is still waiting for a new owner. Interested? Visit the club's online store HERE and pick him up before he's "thinned" out! (Photo: GIJCC)
Is the GIjOE Collectors' Club getting out of the 12-inch market altogether?
Or…is what's happening now down in Dallas simply a matter of routine house-keeping for the good people at Fun Publications, Inc.? In what's being described as an attempt to "thin down some of the archives," the nation's largest club for GIjOE fans has been sending out regular messages to its membership announcing its sale of an ever-growing numbers of 12-inch figures, uniforms and accessories, many of which haven't been seen outside of an ebay auction for many, MANY years. And while not specifically a "sale" per se (there are no discounted prices), this recent push by the club reveals a concerted effort to clear out the remainder of NMIB 12-inch merchandise that few knew were still in stock—anywhere. In fact, according to a message sent out today by GIjCC President, Brian Savage:
Brian Savage, GIjOE Collector's Club President (Photo: GIJCC)
"More items have been added to the Archive Sale! We have one more upload next week and that will be the end of the items in the Archive Sale for a while (until we do a physical inventory of what is left – there may be (also maybe not) some more items not listed correctly on the logs)."
Sure sounds like inventory "house-cleaning" to us. As to WHY the club has begun this intriguing (non-sale) sale, Savage states:
"We are running out of room in the warehouse and we have decided to 'thin' down some of the archives. We have been keeping too many of each product for future use/reference and now it is time to reclaim the space! We have been at this for about 20 years, so there is quite a lot of different items to choose from… some retail… some sold out exclusives and convention items! However… we don't have many of any of these products! Some are the only one left!"
You better step off, dude! We snapped this photo of our new Coastie Harbor Security Guard guarding the reference books in our office with his deck-mounted .50 cal. Thanks, GIjCC! (Photo: Mark Otnes)
Can you imagine being on this "cleaning detail?" What fun! Wouldn't you like to open unmarked boxes and discover long-lost GIjOE treasure? (Psst! Hey, Brian! Need some free labor? Where do we sign up?) Savage continues:
"We will be putting up a batch of products each week for a few more weeks. This is a very slow process as we have to go through each storage box and verify what is really there. So, to make this even more fun we are including with each of these products, the below Certificate of Authenticity which if you look closely, has the embossed 1926 Corporate Seal of Hassenfeld Bros. Inc. Providence, RI. We came across this one of a kind item from a collector. We thought you would enjoy having a commemorative imprint from it. This is the FIRST corporate seal that was created when they incorporated in 1926! Check out the items now! Don't wait… these items will go quickly~ Thanks for your support! —Brian"
Bottom Line: We're not exactly sure what this latest sale of 12-inch vintage swag truly portends, some believe it means the club is about to abandon 1:6 scale for good. But we've already hurried over and relieved Brian of some of his 12-inch "burden," picking up a SWEET 10th Mountain Division Snow Trooper and a NMIB Coast Guard Harbor Security figure, complete with .50 cal. deck gun and mount. The club's COA was, to put it mildly, unimpressive, but the Hassenfeld stamp was intriguing. Of course, we freed our new recruits from their cardboard prisons immediately and put them to duty in our office. Isn't it a thrill to be the one who gets to de-box and pose a new Joe for the first time—EVER? Of course it is! HOOah! Go, Joe! Thanks, Brian!
Tagged Brian Savage, GIjOE Collector's Club
Action Man, Famous Names in GIjOE, Figures, Sales & Events, Unusual, Unique & Rare Items
Stunning Final Bids Made Yesterday For Don Levine's "One-of-a-Kind" G.I. Joe "Prototypes"
While not everything sold, many of the items offered in the recent Don Levine Family "prototypes" auction in CA brought in top dollar bids from avid GIjOE collectors. (Photo: BDentertainment)
When the hammer finally came down on yesterday's GIjOE "prototypes" auction held at the swanky Nate D Sanders Auctions in Los Angeles, the final bid prices paid for (at least two of) the pieces came as a great surprise to many Joe fans, collectors and historians. Here are the results:
GIjOE "Dream Date" Barbie prototype (Photo: NDSA)
GIjOE "Dream Date" Barbie Prototype Set, Final Bid Price: $4,375.00
Of all the items up for auction in this sale, we felt this particular one had the strongest chance of pulling down some serious cash. But it's interesting to point out that on this item, despite its obvious rarity and unassailable provenance—there was only 1 bid! Unlike over on ebay, at an auction house, whatever bid you offer registers immediately as the highest bid. The new owner of this piece clearly decided that his (or her) "ceiling" bid for the Joe and Barbie set was $4, 375, and since no other bids came in, that amount became its final selling price. Is it worth it? Yup. Collectibles are worth whatever fans are ultimately willing to pay for them, and this item's highly popular cross-branded theme and professional prototype packaging makes it a VERY desirable GIjOE/Barbie collectible.
Don Levine's "Action Soldier" prototype (Photo: NDSA)
"Action Soldier" Prototype Figure, Final Bid Price: $2,625.00
Whoa. This final sale price on this Joe will definitely have collectors buzzing, either with admiration—or contemptuous disbelief. Just looking at it, this prototype "Action Soldier" appears to be a simple combination of a fuzzhead figure, AT Commander's jacket, USAF orange jumpsuit and boots. This is something any Joehead can duplicate in a matter of minutes. We're not saying it isn't exactly what it was represented to be, but for what the buyer receives, the final purchase price of $2,625 seems waaaay high (to us). The biggest surprise about this guy was how fiercely he was fought over. When the dust finally settled, there had been a total of TWELVE (12) bids placed for this one (fairly ordinary looking) 12-inch Joe. WOW!
Prototype Action Man (Photo: NDSA)
Prototype "Action Man" Figure
Final Bid Price: $625.00
Okay, we were honestly "on the fence" about this figure. Its Levine Family provenance and stained sweater struck us as LIKELY to be what it was claimed to be—a prototype for Action Man—but again, without the COA, it seemed fairly basic and uninteresting. Regardless, someone out there in Joe-Land offered up $625 and earned the right to become its new owner. Again, there was only ONE bidder, and although that bidder had no way of knowing he (or she) would be bidding alone, that person could have saved him or herself $125 by bidding only the reserve price of $500. Oh well, live and learn!
Bottom Line: These figures will all undoubtedly find good homes with some seriously deep-pocketed GIjOE and Action Man fans, but we can't help but wonder whether or not, in these particular cases, if they overpaid (in some cases, dramatically) for what they received. Let's hope they've done their research (and know more than us) and placed their bids with due diligence. A word of reassurance on this matter came to us today from NDSA copywriter, Ian Gould, who states:
Ian Gould, copywriter (Photo: Ian Gould)
"I've been dealing with the sale pretty much since its inception and have talked with Nan Levine a lot about each piece. She seemed to know a lot about each piece, and told me that they were all indeed original prototypes. She was familiar with everything that he had, and Donald had these identified as prototypes, or original designs.
So yes, it is difficult to know exactly where all of the items come from, but the markings on each indicates each item's provenance (i.e. where they came from). I understand the hesitation in proclaiming them as true 'prototypes', hence the fairly low reserve set on each. The Action Man one is probably the biggest steal of any, as she told me it really was the original. It would obviously help to have Donald around to validate the claim, but no matter."
Tagged Action Man, Donald Levine, GIjOE Auction
Action Man, Famous Names in GIjOE, Figures, Important Dates, Just When You Thought You'd Seen It All, Sales & Events, Unusual, Unique & Rare Items
Heads Up, G.I. Joe Fans 'n Collectors———Unusual "One-of-a-Kind" Prototypes From Don Levine's Personal Collection Now Being Auctioned Off
A GIjOE "Dream Date" Barbie combo set—with a Naval Cadet figure? Heck yeah, we'd buy that! Be sure to click this photo to enlarge (and read their untold, unsold story on the back). (Photo: NDSA)
Nate D. Sanders, Auctioneer (Photo: NDSA)
FLASH! GIjOE History For Sale—Only 1 Day Remaining
We were surprised to learn today that Don Levine's wife and widow, Nan Levine, is currently auctioning off more of Don's rare GIjOE prototypes and other "one-of-a-kinds" at the Nate D. Sanders Auctions (NDSA) facility in Los Angeles, CA (and on their website online). Fortunately, Nate wrote in to The Joe Report today juuust in time for his exciting news to make it into today's issue. Here's what Nate had to say about the auction:
"Rare" and "One of a Kind" are not words we throw around lightly here at Nate D. Sanders Auctions. We try very hard to reserve those hallowed words for pieces that truly fit that description. We can confidently call the G.I. Joe prototypes we are putting up for auction on October 30th 'rare' and 'one of a kind,' because that really is what they are. Nate D. Sanders Auctions is excited to announce that we will be auctioning off several museum-quality G.I. Joe prototypes owned and designed by G.I. Joe creator Donald Levine. This is a dream come true for any toy collector, as Mr. Levine is widely considered to be one of the most prolific toy designers of all time. All of the items come directly from his estate. Mr. Levine had a storied career as a toy designer for Hasbro and its UK distributor Palitoy from 1959 until his recent passing this past May."
As to the GIjOE-Barbie combo set shown above, Sanders provided the following intel:
"This is the original prototype designed and created by G.I. Joe creator Donald Levine, in its original packaging taken by Levine to the pitch meeting for the idea, at the offices of Hasbro executives. Ultimately, though, the "dream date" never occurred, as Hasbro was unable to get licensing rights from the Mattel toy company for the production of the Barbie doll.
The back of the box reads: 'This is the ultimate to collectors' fantasy come true! / Everyone who ever grew up playing Barbie or GI Joe during the mid-1960's imagined what it would be like if these two American icons ever went out on a date. Well, here's the answer to their dreams. Dream date is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Barbie and GI Joe collectors to add a very special piece of toy history to their collections.'
The bottom reads: 'The Story / It's June week at the United States Naval Academy at Annapolis. Midshipman, GI Joe, has asked the most beautiful girl in America to the Cotillion Ball. Barbie is dressed in a mid-1960's prom dress. GI Joe is dressed in his full-dress service academy uniform. Before the dance is over, will he and Barbie take a stroll in the moonlight along Flirtation Walk?'
G.I. Joe wears the aforementioned navy blue white and gold Naval Academy uniform, complete with a long sword housed in a bright blue sheath affixed to the doll's belt. Barbie wears the mid-1960s pink prom dress, complete with pearl necklace and earrings. She wears pink elbow length gloves, and the dress has a white 'fur' collar. Measures 10.25" x 15". Slight wear to the box, as it was opened at the Hasbro pitch meeting. Very good condition. From the estate of G.I. Joe creator Donald Levine and with a COA from his widow."
While this figure is certified as being owned by Don Levine, an "Action Soldier prototype" it clearly is NOT. Rather, it appears to be some sort of Adventure Team amalgam, created with a '70s fuzzhead Commander and an Air Force jumpsuit. (Photo: NDSA)
Caveat Emptor! We're not sure if it's a matter of Nan Levine not knowing about what she's endorsing, or whether Nate's auction company is simply in error, but some of the items in this auction aren't exactly what we'd describe as "prototypes." The soldier and Action Man figures look a lot more like kit-bashed "representations," created out of already existing uniforms and figures. Conversely, the GIjOE and Barbie combo set and that remote-controlled figure appear to be real "finds," Joe history-wise. But we'd advise caution and careful consideration about the others before placing your bid(s). Here are some more of Nate's intriguing descriptions:
"One of a kind "Action Soldier' G.I. Joe prototype from 1964, with original hair flocking. This is one of only a handful of original prototypes personally designed by G.I. Joe creator Donald Levine for Hasbro in 1964. Hard plastic prototype features bearded soldier wearing removable burnt orange flight suit, which zippers from the waist to neck and contains "G.I. Joe / By Hasbro / Hong Kong" written on the label. A four pocket green military coat with three snaps covers the flight suit, and the soldier wears brown mock lace up combat boots. To the inside label of the military jacket reads: "G.I. Joe / By Hasbro / Japan". Embossed to the figure's backside is the original copyright from 1964. Measures 11" tall. One snap missing on green jacket, and minor soiling to the flight suit. From the estate of G.I. Joe creator Donald Levine and with a COA from his widow."
This figure is VERY intriguing. But also questionable. Bid with caution. (Photo: NDSA)
Crikey! The World's FIRST Action Man?
"One of a kind 'Action Man' prototype from 1966, with original hair flocking. The manufacture of this figurine was personally overseen by G.I. Joe creator Donald Levine in 1966 for Palitoy, the British distributor for the Hasbro toy company at that time. Included is the original picture booklet from the Action Man series, which was the British version of the popular G.I. Joe series. The booklet contains pictures of the entire Action Man action figure series from 1966. The prototype wears removable black combat boots and is clothed in an olive-green sweater with matching cargo pants with a removable khaki colored belt. A small lever to the back of the neck allows the figure's blue eyes to move from side to side. A copyright is written to the prototype's back which reads: 'Made in England by Palitoy / Under license from Hasbro / 1964.' Measures 11" tall. Small stains to the chest of the sweater. From the estate of G.I. Joe creator Donald Levine with a COA from his widow."
With its unpolished wooden base, handcrafted styrofoam "debris" and wife-signed COA, the likelihood of this being Levine's 9/11 firemen set prototype seems undeniable. (Photo: NDSA)
Of course, Levine's "retirement days" were anything but, as he was constantly occupied with creating new prototypes for historic one-of-a-kind action figures. For example, post 9/11, he worked with both Target and Hasbro to create a short run of superb "Top Line" NYPD and FDNY sets. Here's how Sanders describes Levine's 3-figure 9/11 FDNY prototype (see photo above):
"One of a kind 'Real American Heroes' prototype scene, representing heroic firefighters at the site of the 9/11 tragedy. The scene depicts three first responders, manufactured in the style of G.I. Joe dolls. The firefighters stand on an artistic representation of the World Trade center rubble. The three struggle to maintain their balance on the rubble, which is made of gray painted styrofoam affixed to a wooden base.
Firefighters wear blue t-shirts underneath black firefighter overalls with neon green striping to the cuffs. The middle firefighter wears a removable black firefighting jacket with neon green striping across the chest and elbows, as well as striping across the cuffs and bottom of the jacket. The removable jacket velcros to the neck. All three firefighters wear removable black and neon green firefighting hats with clear plastic visors.
Base measures 12.5″ x 9.25″. Scene measures 13″ tall. Weighs 3 lbs. 8 oz. Middle firefighter has disconnection between the knee and the calf, which does not affect the integrity of the look of the scene. Very good. From the estate of G.I. Joe Creator Donald Levine and with a COA from his widow."
Are these the first-ever Cyborg GIjOEs? Quite possibly. Click to enlarge. (Photo: NDSA)
Plug me in, Joe! This closeup of the back of one of the remote-controlled Joes is sooo interesting! (Photo: NDSA)
A Pair of Remote-Control Prototype GIjOEs? Affirmative!
Without a doubt, the most unusual and unique items in this auction are a pair of prototype GIjOE figures that utilize remote control. Yes, you heard us right. Remote control! Let's jump right to Nate's fascinating description of a truly historic pair of ground-breaking GIjOEs:
"One of a kind pair of G.I. Joe prototype dolls, including original remote control. First prototype is a representation of a member of the 'NYPD Emergency Service Unit,' who wears a full Emergency Service Unit uniform, including a removable black velcro bulletproof vest. The exceptionally detailed uniform includes a variety of removable miniature plastic weapons, including a combat rifle, shotgun and 'Glock' handgun affixed to the right thigh as well as two grenades affixed to the rear waist. The black uniform features a removable gas mask along with the removable vest, and the doll wears knee and elbow pads. The head is covered by a removable lycra hood. Soldier holds a flashlight in his left hand, and there is a removable walkie-talkie affixed to a case which attaches to the left side of the bulletproof vest. Wiring component that controls lights on his uniform is housed in a black pack with "NYPD Police Emergency Services Unit" written in white lettering, affixed to the prototype's back. Red shotgun shells are attached to the doll's left leg as well as to the upper back. Second prototype is an army soldier, wearing a green and brown camouflage uniform. Soldier also wears a green beret and black gloves, and holds a handgun in his right hand. Battery components for the remote control (fully operational allowing movement of the soldier) are held in an olive-green backpack, as well as on two waist packs which rest on his rear end."
The Hunchback of GIjOE Fame? This closeup of Levine's prototype Army figure reveals that in addition to its remote-control electronics, it was kit-bashed together using a '90s Action Man headsculpt set atop a 21stCT body and uniform, making it look somewhat "hunch-backed." Esméralda! (Photo: NDSA)
"Either doll fits into black plastic footholds which are affixed to the brown wooden base. The black silver and red 'Futaba' brand remote-control has two metal knobs which control the camouflaged doll's extremities. Set also includes an extra pair of black combat boots. The prototypes measure 12" tall. Included base measures 4.5" x 6". Remote control measures 7" x 2" x 6". Entire set weighs 4 lbs. 5 oz. Near fine. From the estate of G.I. Joe creator Donald Levine and with a COA from his widow."
Bottom Line: There's more, but of the items included in this auction, the pair of remote-controlled prototype figures and the GIjOE-Barbie combo set strike us as the most collectible. Action Man fans will probably disagree after studying that AM prototype, but that's understandable. Our sincerest thanks go out to Nate Sanders and Ace Field Reporter, Ian Gould, for providing us with this exciting news. We close with one more quote from Nate, who informed us:
"We are also auctioning off several other Levine owned pieces, including a set of 11 dolls from the Dolly Darling series, and more G.I. Joe prototypes. Your inner child is very, very excited. To buy, consign or sell GI Joe memorabilia, please email me at Nate@NateDSanders.com. Thanks!"
Action Team (Germany's GIjOE), Equipment Sets, Figures, Just When You Thought You'd Seen It All, Sales & Events
Achtung! After Being Stored and Forgotten in a Cellar For Decades, 1,000 Vintage N.O.S. Hasbro "Action Team" and Mattel "Big Jim" Figures and Equipment Sets Finally To Be Sold to the Public
We've heard of "holding back stock," but THIS is ridiculous: Imagine finding a mountain of original factory shipping cartons from the 1970s, all FULL of vintage, NOS, NMIB action figures and their related uniform and equipment sets. Sounds like a toy lover's dream, right? Well, that exact fantasy has recently became a hardcore REALITY in Germany, where a horde of almost 1,000 items of never-sold, never-opened, nostalgic treasurse has been discovered and will be put up for sale—for the first time EVER—during a worldwide auction to be held on October 18, 2014. (Photo: Uwe Winkler)
Toy auctioneer Uwe Winkler of Germany. (Photo: Landsberger Spielzeugauktion)
Donnerwetter! Time Travel IS Possible.
In a stunning revelation made today by famed toy auctioneer Uwe Winkler, a horde of long-ago forgotten (vintage) Action Team and Big Jim action figures and related equipment sets have just been discovered in Germany and are about to be sold to the highest bidder(s) in an upcoming worldwide auction. Regular readers of The Joe Report will be excused if they feel a sense of deja vu, because this event seems reminiscent of a similar find (detailed HERE) in which we reported on the discovery and sale of another unbelievable cache of NMIB GIjOEs, ones that had been hidden away in a museum—in Dearborn, Michigan—since 1965!
Holding the Past in Your Hands: With almost 1,000 items in the NOS auction, it's impossible to show them all here. Nevertheless, Winkler has dumped out a pile of assorted pieces to serve as an example of the treasures included. Keen-eyed collectors will spy items from Action Man, Action Team, Big Jim, Mr. Double Action, Fighting Furies and many other action figure lines. You could stock an amazing recreation of a 1970's toy store if you bought them all! Click to enlarge. (Photo; Landsberger Spielzeugauktion)
If you wanted to buy a brand new GIJOE in 1974-77, one of your best bets was an "Action Team" figure from Germany. Click to enlarge. (Photo: at-hq.blogspot)
Apparently the Unimaginable
—Is Now Imaginable!
What makes Winkler's upcoming NOS sale so exciting is the untouched, never-sold, mint-condition of the items being offered. You can tell by looking at their packaging that they simply haven't been handled or probably even touched for decades. These are highly desirable vintage '70s toys that have never been owned by any child or adult toy collector; never been played with, and never even exposed to sunlight. In fact, many items are still packed in their original factory shipping cartons. Holy minty-fresh, Batman! For action figure collectors, handling such "virgin" vintage merchandise—manufactured over 40 years ago—is about as close an experience to time travel as we could ever hope to experience. Hello, Marty McFly?
Imagine being able to hold vintage perfection— This photo of NOS, NMIB '70s Big Jim figures reveals picture-perfect packages with razor-straight, crease-free flaps and no bent corners or scuffed windows. There are multiples of numerous extremely rare Mattel figures including Big Jim, Big Jeff, Dr. Steel, etc. These would instantly make everything else in your current Big Jim collection look worn and OLD by comparison. What a Time Tunnel trip! Click to enlarge. (Photo: Landsberger Spielzeugauktion)
We asked Herr Winkler to fill us in on his backstory and this upcoming NOS auction. He replied:
If you can make to Germany to attend the auction in person, this is what the auction room will look like. But don't worry. If you can't attend in person, you can still view the catalog online and place your bids via phone or email. Have fun! (Photo: Landsberger Spielzeugauktion)
"After leaving the Army, I studied economics and business taxation and worked as a tax consultant. I am now the owner of the auction house Landsberger Toy Auctions in Germany / Bavaria where I've sold vintage toys since 2000 (as a sole proprietor), mainly tin-toys and die-cast cars from the 1940s to the 1960s. During my 31st auction (April 2014), I offered many mint and boxed action figures from Mattel (Big Jim) and Action Team (Hasbro's German GIjOE) and will do so again in my 32nd Toy Auction on October 18th, 2014. I am happy to offer almost 1.000 items from the 1970s. We present every lot in a high-quality catalog, fully pictured on the internet, and give bidders the opportunity to place their bids by phone, email, writing, or in person.
As to this upcoming toy auction, the consignee is an elderly gentleman. He told me that he bought all of these toys in the 1980s from a wholesaler (in Germany) and then stored all of them in his cellar—for decades! On the one hand, he likes old toys. On the other hand, he's expected an increase in value over time. He also told me that he has a lot of early Star Wars Figures from Kenner from the 1970s and 1980s. But that's a story for the future. I'll keep in touch!" —Uwe Winkler, Germany
Bottom Line: It boggles the mind how almost 1,000 unopened, NOS (new old stock), NMIB (new mint in box) Action Team and Big Jim toys from the 1970s were squirreled away in an old man's cellar in Germany and are only now (finally) emerging for a modern-day resurrection and resale. Gott im Himmel!—That's almost 40 years!
Tagged Landsberger Spielzeugauktion, Uwe Winkler
Famous Names in GIjOE, Fans & Collectors, Sales & Events
Ailing James DeSimone Chooses to Speed Up Sale of G.I. Joe Collection, Selling All in Final Auction
"I most likely will not live long enough to deal with selling single items."
—James DeSimone
In a sad scenario that thousands of toy fans and GIjOE collectors will have to face someday (some sooner than others), GIjOE's #1 Fan," James DeSimone, is currently in the process of divesting himself of his beloved vintage GIjOE collection. It's a depressing and devastating process that most of us don't even want to consider, but when someone you know personally (or someone famous such as DeSimone) is facing this issue, the rest of us are forced to take heed.
As we reported back in October of 2013 (see HERE), Mr. DeSimone, perhaps the world's best-known GIjOE fan, advocate and collector, recently suffered a heart attack and felt he needed to begin selling off items from his famous toy collection in order to help pay medical bills, etc. With the able aid of his son, Jonathan DeSimone, the two began the slow and arduous process of placing small groups of related items up on ebay. Now, almost a year later, the ailing DeSimone has decided to speed up the divestment process dramatically by putting ALL of his remaining GIjOE items up for sale in one big, final auction. This decision prompts the question that most of us dread considering…
Need some vintage backpacks? Or pup tents? James DeSimone's collection has at LEAST a couple a dozen each! Click to enlarge. (Photo: Jonathan DeSimone)
What should WE do with our GIjOE collections when we're…"Done?"
Unfortunately, there's no single, clear-cut "collection divestment strategy" that applies to everyone's needs. Most collectors will try to sell their collections, but others may not have the requisite time, ability or desire. Fortunately, there are other options one can consider, including the following four methods:
Willing It to Descendents: This is an easy choice to make. But is it the best option for everyone? Should collectors declare everything in their wills as inheritance to be divided equally among potentially apathetic and/or openly disinterested relatives or offspring? Perhaps not. GIjOE fans care too much about their collections to dispatch them off to an unknown fate, and would prefer to see them go somewhere they know they'll be appreciated—and loved. If your family never cared much about your "doll collection" before, then they'll probably resent having to pay inheritance taxes on them, and/or having to cart them off to Goodwill. Surely, there must be a better way!
Some of DeSimone's vintage sailors, just waiting for the loving, restorative attention of another devoted GIjOE fan to come along. Could that person be YOU? (Photo: Jonathan DeSimone)
Look at all this AWESOME vintage medical equipment! Click to enlarge. (Photo: Jonathan DeSimone)
Donating to Museums: Okay, how about donating your collection to a toy museum? Unfortunately, there are only a handful of such places around the country (you can probably count them all on your fingers). And even if you do find a reputable museum that's willing to accept and care for your pile of precious playthings, how many other collections could they hope to absorb afterwards, before having to turn away the rest of us? There are at LEAST hundreds of thousands of GIjOE/Action Man/Action Team/Geyperman collectors around the world. Oh well, have you considered…
With over 100+ figures in the auction, we can't show them all to you here. But take a look at this second batch of vintage sailors and everything they come with. Click to enlarge. (Photo: Jonathan DeSimone)
Throwing it Away: Sacrilege? Well, yes. But let's face it, depending on the collector's age, physical health and subsequent mental state at the time, he or she may simply decide to put everything out on the curb—with their TRASH. As inconceivable as that nightmare scenario may sound, it happens ALL THE TIME. Just imagine what's buried out there in our landfills. It's enough to break your heart! Your smartest move is, of course…
Selling it Piecemeal—or All Together: Fortunately, most collectors will never drag their collectibles to the curb, but opt instead to deal with the hassle of selling their beloved treasures to the highest bidder—until their patience and/or time runs out. Let's face it, setting up and organizing large collections at flea markets or posting it all online and then spending precious life hours/weeks/years haggling over prices is a tedious game for the young (and healthy). Unfortunately for Mr. DeSimone, the luxury of TIME is one he apparently no longer enjoys. According to the auction description written by his son, Jonathan (edited for length):
Jonathan DeSimone, son of James DeSimone (Photo: Jonathan DeSimone)
"My Dad, James DeSimone, has failing health. He actually flatlined (died) for 10 whole minutes! But yes, he still functions (somewhat) OK. We are selling what he has valued and kept of his GIjOEs. As you know, the stories are legendary of the tons of stuff Dad has traded over the years. Nothing rare, just good ol' common stuff you played with as a child.
We have 50 photographs…If you go to Dad's website at GIjOEInformation and look, he still has 2 or 3 of the 8′ long diorama boards and the 8′ long ship. If you buy this collection, those items are included ONLY if you want to pay to ship them. Nothing… is duplicated or photographed twice."
Selling off a collection often provides unique insights into a collector's personal preferences as well. One such intriguing example is revealed below:
"There is so much stuff that it was hard to sort it all out in advance. For instance—Jeep shells. We kept finding more and more! Dad couldn't buy them fast enough or get enough of them, so they are in several different pictures."
DeSimone clearly likes 1:6 scale ordnance and collected multiples of 5-star Jeep shells, ammo boxes, grenades, mortar rounds, bazooka shells, etc. BOOMMM!! (Photo: Jonathan DeSimone)
Fascinating! Why James DeSimone has such a yearning for tiny 1:6 ordnance remains a mystery, but the proof of his attraction to them is obvious. Additionally, the condition of the items in his collection reflects his personal approach to their care, use and display. While many fans take pride in storing their collections in airtight, dust-free, glass cabinets, DeSimone clearly preferred to play with his GIjOEs in giant indoor and outdoor dioramas. Jonathan confirms this view, stating:
"A lot of stuff has years of dust on it. We can assure you Dad never repaired, doctored or cleaned a single thing. There was tons of stuff on the ship diorama. Most of it is dirty, from 20 years of dust exposure and neglect, plus the past 2 years since Dad's health issues."
Bottom Line: DeSimone's collection is known worldwide and despite its current "dusty" condition, is highly regarded for its authenticity and vintage, unaltered status. Here's a direct link to the auction. It's not likely to remain unsold as collector interest appears to be widespread, strong and growing. Expect many "snipers" to jump in with deep pockets on the last day. But we recommend you also heed this final bit of "insider-intel" from Jonathan:
"We have just started to reach out to Dad's numerous contacts and collectors. A collector from Ohio is coming out to see the collection next week so we reserve the right to end this auction at any time. We are hoping that there is one person out there that understands the magnitude of what it took to collect and obtain all this stuff and appreciate what it means to also lay claim to owning the world's largest diorama of GIjOEs."
Tagged James DeSimone, Jonathan DeSimone
Customizers, Dealers, Fans & Collectors, New Products, Sales & Events, Shows, Unique & Rare Items, Unusual
"Lucky Shot Scale Leather" Creating 1:6 Holster Rigs and Related Accessories for 12″ G.I. Joes
Lt. Colonel Aaron Luck, US Army (above), attended Joelanta 2014 and provided passersby with the rare opportunity to observe him while working, as he created actual examples of his superb 1:6 scale holster rigs and related miniature leather goods. Luck even brought his sewing machine along to stitch his tiny creations together as fans looked on in amazement. Out-STANDING! (Photo: Mark Otnes)
This elaborate 4-gun rig really caught our eye. Look at all the perfect stitchwork and complex assembly. Absolutely perfect, Aaron! (Photo: Mark Otnes)
Active-Duty Army Officer Stuns Joelanta Attendees With Live Sewing and Assembly Demonstrations
"Even I can do better than THAT!" —Aaron Luck
The more customizers we meet in this hobby, the more diversity we discover among their talents and creative use of materials and techniques. Indeed, if you search the "customizers" category here on The Joe Report, you'll be rewarded with numerous articles on talented individuals, including a few dubbed as "masters of metal," a "3D printing pioneer," various traditional modelers working in styrene plastics, molds and resins, and even one amazing man working exclusively with wood and other "found" materials.
You may think we've covered them all. But as Yoda would say… "No. There is… ANOTHER." Meet Lt. Col. Aaron Luck (active-duty, US Army). Aaron's impressive military resume is about a mile long, but in brief (according to the LinkedIn website) Luck is currently serving as the "Deputy Chief of Combat Operations Division at Joint Space Operations Center," and was educated at the "Naval Postgraduate School (and) United States Military Academy at West Point." It's not mentioned in his resume, but Luck also happens to be an avid GIjOE fan and collector, and in his spare time, enjoys creating 1:6 scale miniature leather goods—out of real leather—for use with 12-inch GIjOEs and related action figures. HOOah!
As a real-life "GIjOE," Luck proudly serves his country as an officer in the United States Army. Here, he's shown wearing the Army's impressive "class A" dress uniform at a ceremony held at the Joint Space Operations Command at Vandenberg AFB near Lompoc, CA. (Photo: Chad Miller)
A giant "Men of Honor" action figure customized into an over-sized Air Adventurer (humorously) holds up a poster showing various gun rigs and other 1:6 creations offered by "Lucky Shot Scale Leather." (Photo: Mark Otnes)
As I walked up to Luck's dealer table at Joelanta 2014, he struck me as focused and methodical. At first, I thought he was repairing something, but then I learned he was busy CREATING something instead—a miniature 2-gun holster rig! Transfixed, I was soon joined by other fans, and we all continued to watch in rapt admiration as Aaron worked. I eventually saw that each tiny piece of (real) leather is cut out (by HAND), then carefully and skillfully stitched together using Aaron's trusty, old-fashioned sewing machine. Finally, to finish each rig off properly, Luck carefully attaches tiny metal buckles and rings until the final 1:6 scale product looks completely realistic.
Luck created this unusual "Jango Fett" black double-rig (from scratch) during the first morning of Joelanta 2014. That's EVERYTHING, cut, sewn, and buckled—in under FOUR hours! (Photo: Mark Otnes)
I asked Luck to comment on how he became interested in creating 1:6 holster rigs and he told me:
"About a year and a half ago, I was looking at that shoulder rig that came with the Mademoiselle Marie figure. While "serviceable," it was bad enough that I immediately thought, 'Even I can do better than THAT.' So, I started making some of my own, posting pictures of the results on various GIjOE forums and Facebook. Other collectors liked what they saw and told me, 'Hey those are great. Make me one!' It spread from there. I just want to help other fans finish their figures!"
Luck's creations are all meticulously handmade and VERY correct. From left to right, a "cross-over' 2-gun rig, another intricate 4-gun rig and Bruce Willis' "Mare's Laig" side-holster. (Photo: Mark Otnes)
Bottom Line: How cool is this? In what other hobby can you get something hand-created for you by the Deputy Chief of Combat Operations Division at the Joint Space Operations Center? Just think about THAT, my fellow Joeheads! If you need to "finish a figure" and would like more information on Lucky Shot Scale Leather, you can contact Aaron directly via email HERE, visit his website HERE, or "like" him on Facebook HERE. We'd "like" to offer our own sincerest thanks and gratitude to Luck for his lengthy and illustrious military service and to his recent (and outstanding) contributions to the 1:6 scale collecting hobby. OOHrah! Go, Army! Go, Aaron!
Tagged Aaron Luck


The Hunza peoples of upper Afganistan attribute daily tea of this herb to their famed health. A surprisingly tasty tea can be made with just a pinch of the leaves, steeped in one cup just-boiled water for 5 minutes. Gynostemma tea can be taken any time of day.
Gynostemma (Jiao Gu Lan) is undoubtedly one of the World's top herbs. The Hunza peoples of upper Afganistan attribute daily tea of this herb to their famed health. A surprisingly tasty tea can be made with just a pinch of the leaves, steeped in one cup just-boiled water for 5 minutes. Gynostemma tea can be taken any time of day.
Gynostemma (Jiao Gu Lan) is undoubtedly one of the World's top adaptogenic herbs. The Hunza peoples of upper Afganistan attribute daily tea of this herb to their famed longevity and heart health. A surprisingly tasty tea can be made with just a pinch of the leaves, steeped in one cup just-boiled water for 5 minutes. Gynostemma tea can be taken any time of day. Due to its adaptogenic properties, drinking Gynostemma can help increase energy during the early hours and promote calming in the night. This miraculous herb is thought to have actions equivalent to Ginseng, and is excellent as a daily tea in cholesterol and blood sugar regulating programs.