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The following list explores the multifaceted benefits that justify the investment in a pool barrier.
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7 Reasons Why A Pool Fence Is Worth The Investment
Owning a pool comes with its set of joys and responsibilities. It’s a luxury that offers endless fun and a private oasis for relaxation. However, ensuring safety around this blissful water feature is paramount. Among various safety measures, installing a pool barrier with the assistance of a playground fence Sydney expert stands out as an essential step for homeowners. While some may view it as just another expense, the truth behind its value goes much deeper.
The following list explores the multifaceted benefits that justify the investment in a pool barrier.
Prevention of Accidental Drownings
The primary purpose of a pool barrier is to prevent accidental drownings, especially in households with children and pets. It acts as a physical barrier, making unauthorised access to the pool area nearly impossible. The statistics around accidental drownings highlight a grim reality, with most incidents occurring in the absence of adult supervision. A barrier significantly reduces these risks, offering peace of mind to homeowners.
Enhanced Supervision Efficiency
A barrier does not replace the need for adult supervision but complements it by providing a safer environment. It limits access to the pool, allowing supervisors to manage pool safety more effectively. This is particularly beneficial in moments when attention is divided among multiple responsibilities.
Legal and Financial Benefits
Compliance with Local Safety Regulations
Many localities have strict regulations requiring pools to have barriers. These laws are in place to ensure the safety of residents and reduce the incidence of pool-related accidents. By installing a barrier, homeowners ensure compliance with these regulations, avoiding potential fines and legal issues.
Reduction in Insurance Premiums
Some insurance companies offer reduced premiums for homes with pool barriers. This reduction is due to the decreased risk of accidents, which lowers the likelihood of insurance claims. Over time, the savings on insurance can contribute significantly to offsetting the initial cost of installation.
Increased Property Value
A pool barrier can be an attractive addition to your property, enhancing its overall aesthetics and functionality. Prospective buyers often look for homes that prioritise safety, especially when it comes to pool areas. This addition can increase the market value of your property, making it a wise investment for the future.
Variety of Design Options
Modern barriers come in various designs, materials, and finishes, allowing homeowners to choose an option that complements their outdoor décor. From transparent glass that offers an unobstructed view to ornate metalwork that adds a touch of elegance, there is a design to suit every taste and budget.
Peace of Mind
Beyond the tangible benefits, the sense of security and peace of mind that comes with knowing your pool area is safe cannot be overstated. It allows homeowners and their guests to enjoy the pool with less worry, making leisure time truly relaxing.
Investing in Safety and Beyond
Choosing to install a pool barrier is not merely an act of compliance or a financial decision; it’s an investment in safety, security, and peace of mind. It reflects a commitment to protecting what matters most: the well-being of family and friends. In today’s world, where safety can never be taken for granted, such a proactive step is invaluable.
Furthermore, the benefits of a pool barrier extend beyond the immediate safety concerns. They encompass financial advantages, compliance with legal requirements, and even enhancements to property value and aesthetics. Each of these factors contributes to the overall well-being of homeowners and their communities.
At the end of the day, while the upfront cost of a pool barrier may seem significant, the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial investment. It’s a decision that offers a return in the form of safety, legal compliance, financial savings, and enhanced property value. More importantly, it provides homeowners with peace of mind, knowing that their oasis of relaxation is also a haven for everyone who enjoys it. Investing in a pool barrier is not just a wise decision—it’s a necessary step toward responsible pool ownership.
If you have questions or need more information about the topic discussed in this guide, please feel free to get in touch with a reputable service provider near you to get professional advice.
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Childcare Cleaning Sydney: Pros & Cons of Professional vs DIY Cleaning
When it comes to childcare cleaning, Sydney businesses need to be aware of the potential risks and rewards. Childcare facilities are a special kind of environment that require extra attention when it comes to maintaining cleanliness and safety for children. Professional cleaners have experience in this area, which can make all the difference between an inviting atmosphere and one filled with germs and dirt.
Weighing up the pros and cons of professional childcare cleaning versus doing it yourself is essential for any business owner considering their options in Sydney. In this blog post, we will explore exactly what constitutes 'childcare cleaning', and why it's so important, plus look at both sides of hiring a professional cleaner compared with DIY methods - allowing you to make an informed decision on what’s best for your business, whether it's a preschool, after-school or daycare facility.
Table of Contents:
What is Childcare Cleaning?
Why is Childcare Cleaning Important?
Health and Safety Considerations:
Hygiene Standards for Children:
Pros and Cons of Professional Childcare Cleaning vs. Doing it In-House
Cost Considerations:
Quality Assurance with Professional Services:
Time Savings with Professional Services:
Benefits of Professional Childcare Cleaning Services
FAQs in Relation to Childcare Cleaning Sydney
How are toys cleaned in childcare?
What should be cleaned daily in childcare?
What is the most important part of the cleaning routine in childcare?
How do you clean a daycare class?
Conclusion
What is Childcare Cleaning?
Childcare cleaning is a specialized type of commercial cleaning service that focuses on the unique needs of childcare facilities. It involves deep cleaning and sanitizing all areas of the facility, that is, everything in the classrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, playrooms, and outdoor spaces. It also includes regular dusting and vacuuming, and disinfection using TGA-approved products and cleaning supplies specifically designed for use around children. Childcare cleaners must be knowledgeable about health and safety regulations to ensure compliance with local laws.
Professional childcare cleaners offer a variety of services tailored to each facility's specific needs. These can include daily or weekly general maintenance such as sweeping floors, wiping down surfaces, and emptying trash cans; deep cleans which involve scrubbing walls and floors; window washing; carpet shampooing; floor stripping/waxing; pressure washing exterior surfaces like playground equipment or fences; odour control treatments for pet accidents or other odours; upholstery steam cleaning; tile grout scrubbing/sealing/polishing; and more.
Hiring a professional childcare cleaning company offers many benefits over doing it yourself or relying on staff members who may not have experience with proper sanitation techniques. Professionals are trained in safe chemical handling practices and know how to properly apply disinfectants without damaging the surface or leaving residue behind that could harm children's skin or eyes if touched directly after application.
They also have access to industrial-strength equipment like power washers which can quickly remove dirt, stains, or grime from hard-to-reach places like playground equipment that would take much longer by hand. Finally, they can provide detailed reports documenting their work so you know exactly what was done during each visit.
Key Takeaway: Childcare cleaning is a specialized type of commercial cleaning service that requires knowledge of health and safety regulations. Professional cleaners offer many benefits, including access to industrial strength equipment, proper chemical handling practices, detailed reports, and more.
Why is Childcare Cleaning Important?
It helps to reduce the spread of germs, maintain hygiene standards, and meet regulatory requirements.
Health and Safety Considerations:
Cleaning childcare facilities on a regular basis is essential for protecting the health and safety of all those who use them. Regularly disinfecting surfaces can help prevent infections and the spread of infectious diseases like colds, flu, or other illnesses that could be easily passed from one child to another. Additionally, by removing dirt and debris from floors, furniture, toys, etc., you can reduce the risk of slips or falls which could lead to injury.
Hygiene Standards for Children:
Proper hygiene practices are especially important in childcare settings as young children may not always understand how to properly care for themselves when it comes to handwashing or other hygienic habits. By ensuring that surfaces are regularly cleaned with appropriate products designed specifically for use around children (such as non-toxic cleaners), you can help create an environment where good hygiene habits are encouraged and maintained.
By engaging professional commercial cleaners who have experience working within these guidelines, you can ensure your facility remains compliant with all applicable laws while still providing a clean space where kids feel comfortable learning and playing safely and that parents and people in the community can trust.
The responsibility to care for children is something that should not be taken lightly, as it requires a great deal of trust and dedication. Bear in mind that a family with young children will often want to make sure that the childcare facility they choose is clean and safe. Creating an impression of a safe, clean, and comfortable learning and playing environment for kids and parents alike is an important goal for any childcare facility. Proper childcare center cleaning is a great way to ensure that every visitor leaves with a positive impression of your facility.
Key Takeaway: Regularly cleaning childcare facilities is essential for protecting the health and safety of all those who use it, including disinfecting surfaces to reduce the spread of germs; removing dirt and debris to prevent slips or falls; using non-toxic cleaners to encourage good hygiene habits. Professional commercial cleaners can ensure your facility remains compliant with applicable laws in Australia while providing a safe space for children.
Pros and Cons of Professional Childcare Cleaning vs. Doing it In-House
Cost Considerations:
Professional childcare cleaning services can be more cost-effective than doing it in-house. The upfront costs of hiring and training staff, purchasing equipment, and providing supplies are eliminated when using a professional service. Additionally, the cost of labor is often lower with a professional service since they have access to bulk discounts on materials and supplies.
Quality Assurance with Professional Services:
With professional services, you get consistent quality assurance, which is not always possible with an in-house team. Professionals use specialized techniques for deep cleaning and sanitizing surfaces that help ensure the highest standards of hygiene are met at all times. They also follow strict protocols for disinfecting toys and other things used by children to reduce the risk of infection or contamination from things like mold, germs or bacteria while on the property.
By reading reviews of childcare cleaning companies from past or existing customers, childcare facilities can get a better understanding of the services they provide and the quality of their work. This can help them make an informed decision when selecting a cleaning company for their childcare facility.
Time Savings with Professional Services:
Hiring a professional service saves time as well as money because there’s no need to manage staff or oversee their work. Cleaning professionals arrive on site ready to do the job quickly and efficiently so that your facility can remain open during regular hours without disruption due to lengthy cleaning sessions after closing time each day.
One potential challenge associated with having an in-house team is finding reliable employees who will consistently provide high-quality workmanship while adhering to safety regulations and guidelines set forth by governing bodies such as OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health Administration). Additionally, if any members of your team become ill or otherwise unavailable for extended periods of time, this could lead to delays in getting tasks completed properly, which could negatively impact customer satisfaction levels over time if not addressed promptly.
Key Takeaway: Professional childcare cleaning services provide cost savings, quality assurance, and time savings compared to an in-house team. Benefits include no upfront costs; bulk discounts on materials and supplies; consistent quality assurance; quick and efficient service; reliable employees.
Choosing Between In-House and Professional Childcare Cleaning Services
Professional childcare cleaning services offer many benefits, including cost savings, quality assurance, and time savings. However, there are potential challenges with in-house staff that must be considered when making the decision to hire professional cleaners or do it yourself.
The most important consideration when deciding whether to use professional childcare cleaning services or do it yourself is health and safety. Cleaning products used in childcare facilities should be non-toxic and free from harsh chemicals that could potentially harm children's sensitive skin or cause respiratory problems.
Hygiene standards must also be met to ensure the facility remains clean and sanitary at all times. Additionally, regulatory requirements may need to be followed depending on the type of facility being cleaned.
When considering cost considerations between hiring professionals versus doing it yourself, there can often be significant savings by using a professional service as they have access to bulk discounts on supplies which can help reduce costs significantly over time. By taking advantage of these services, childcare businesses can get a better estimate of their overall costs over time, allowing them to budget more accurately and save money in the long run.
Quality assurance is another benefit of using a professional service as they will typically guarantee their work so you know your facility will always look its best after each visit from them. Be sure to ask any questions you may have about the quality of the work that the cleaning service typically guarantees. This will give you the assurance that your facility will always look its best after each visit from them.
Time savings are also realized with a professional service as they can usually complete tasks faster than if done in-house due to their experience level and specialized equipment available for larger jobs such as deep cleaning or carpet shampooing etc.
In contrast, some of the benefits you will enjoy by hiring a full-time cleaner in-house for your childcare centre include having someone available to clean the area on demand. This is in contrast to hiring a professional cleaning company with whom you will need to schedule a cleaning appointment. This will ensure that your premises are always kept neat and tidy and that any messes or spills are taken care of quickly and efficiently, and you don't have to worry about making appointments days or weeks in advance.
On the other hand, some potential challenges exist when choosing an in-house staff for childcare cleaning duties such as finding reliable employees who understand proper hygiene practices; training new hires; scheduling conflicts; lack of specialized equipment; and additional overhead costs associated with employee wages and benefits.
Admittedly, both options have their pros and cons. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what works best for your particular situation regarding budget constraints versus desired results achieved through quality assurance measures provided by professionals, versus those achieved through an in-house staff solution. However, regardless of which option is chosen, it is important to ensure that health and safety regulations are adhered to at all times.
Key Takeaway: When deciding between hiring professional childcare cleaning services or doing it yourself, consider health and safety regulations, cost savings, quality assurance, time savings, and potential challenges with in-house staff.
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FAQs in Relation to Childcare Cleaning Sydney
How are toys cleaned in childcare?
Childcare centers must adhere to strict hygiene standards when it comes to cleaning toys. All surfaces of the toy should be thoroughly wiped down with a disinfectant solution, such as diluted bleach or an EPA-approved cleaner. Toys that are made from fabric should be machine-washed in hot water and detergent before being air-dried. Additionally, any stuffed animals should also be laundered on a regular basis to ensure they remain clean and free of germs. Finally, all toys should be stored in a dry area away from direct sunlight to prevent fading or discoloration.
What should be cleaned daily in childcare?
Daily cleaning in childcare should include sanitizing and disinfecting all surfaces, including toys, furniture, door handles, light switches and other frequently touched items. Vacuuming carpets and mopping floors should also be done daily to ensure a safe environment for children. Cleaning bathrooms regularly is essential to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria. Finally, windowsills and window coverings should be wiped down on a regular basis to remove dust particles from the air. All these tasks are important components of proper childcare hygiene that must be completed daily for optimal health outcomes.
What is the most important part of the cleaning routine in childcare?
The most important part of a cleaning routine in childcare is to ensure that all surfaces, toys, and equipment are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected on a regular basis. This includes wiping down tables, chairs, shelves, doorknobs, light switches and other frequently touched surfaces with an appropriate cleaner or disinfectant. It also involves vacuuming carpets and mopping floors regularly to remove dirt and debris.
Additionally, it is important to clean toys according to the manufacturer’s instructions using warm soapy water or an approved sanitizing solution. Finally, it is essential to have proper hand hygiene practices in place for both staff members and children.
How do you clean a daycare class?
Great care should be when cleaning daycare classes, as the health and safety of children is a top priority. Start by dusting all surfaces, then vacuum carpets and mop floors. Sanitize toys, furniture, windowsills and door handles with EPA-approved disinfectants to ensure that germs are eliminated. All trash should be removed from the room and disposed of properly in designated receptacles outside the building. Finally, clean any glass surfaces such as mirrors or windows using streak-free products for a sparkling finish. This will guarantee a thorough, hygienic cleaning every time.
Conclusion
Professional childcare cleaning services can provide a thorough cleaning that meets the standards set by governing bodies, while also saving time and money for businesses. However, there are pros and cons to both professional childcare cleaning services and doing it in-house. Ultimately, it comes down to what works best for your business or organization based on budgeting needs and other factors.
If you're looking for reliable professional childcare cleaning services in Sydney, look no further than Clean Group Commercial Cleaning. Our clients can rest assured that we provide quality service at a competitive price, so they can be confident that their facility will always be up to standard and that their needs will be met with the highest level of care and attention.
When it comes to ensuring your facility is always up to standard, we are confident that our competitively priced services will provide you with the best value for your money; so don't hesitate to get in touch for a free quote today!
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True Colors | Concetta Antico
GROWING UP on the outskirts of Sydney, Concetta Antico was a peculiar child. Not for the way she foraged the natural world like her friends, nor for what she brought back—a dull crow’s feather, a lump of sandstone, a handful of blueberries. What set Concetta apart, as she turned these treasures over in her small hands, were the colors she saw in them. The black crow feather dazzled her eyes with violet and turquoise and deep flashes of brilliant emerald. The ridges of sandstone shimmered and skipped. Indigos, purples, grays, golds, and azures arrayed the blueberry skins, while their insides popped with yellows, greens, golds, limes, pinks, and violets.
At school she painted the rough, playground fence with water from a metal pail and became immersed in the fantastical hues. The sun bounced off each droplet, bending its light into dancing prisms. Like her mother, she was an artist, painting rainbows. When her mother passed away a few years later, Concetta took refuge in nature. The clouds soothed her with their fragile lilac blues, slight blushes, and mercurial peaches. She found comfort in the thousands of fresh greens after a rain.
#true colors#orion#concetta antico#natalie middleton#tetrachromat#color#beauty#nature#orion magazine
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With plenty of considerations to keep in mind, let us delve into some simple but effective tips to keep your swimming pool space safe, ensuring peace of mind and endless enjoyment.
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10 Simple Tips To Keep Your Pool Area Safe
The allure of a sparkling pool on a warm day is undeniable. It's the centrepiece of leisure, family fun, and even exercise. However, with this inviting oasis comes the responsibility to ensure safety, especially in a space frequented by children and adults alike. Maintaining a safe pool area with the help of a playground fence Sydney is not just about adhering to regulations; it's about fostering an environment where memorable moments are made without the shadow of preventable accidents.
Safety around the pool is a multifaceted endeavour, requiring attention to detail and a proactive approach. From the water's chemical balance to the behaviour of swimmers, each aspect plays a pivotal role in creating a secure and enjoyable space.
With plenty of considerations to keep in mind, let us delve into some simple but effective tips to keep your swimming pool space safe, ensuring peace of mind and endless enjoyment.
Regular Water Quality Checks
Keeping the pool water clean and balanced is essential. Regularly test the pH levels and chlorine content to ensure they are within the recommended range. Unbalanced water can lead to skin irritations and infections, and it can also affect the effectiveness of the pool’s sanitation process.
Non-Slip Surfaces
Wet areas are prone to slipping hazards. Invest in non-slip mats or coatings for the area surrounding the pool. This will significantly reduce the risk of falls and injuries, especially in areas that are constantly wet.
Clear Signage
Displaying clear, visible signs can effectively communicate important messages. Signs such as "No Diving," "Swim at Your Own Risk," or "No Running" serve as constant reminders of safe practices in and around the pool area.
Adequate Lighting
Proper lighting is crucial for evening pool use. Ensure that all areas of the pool, including walkways and steps, are well-lit to prevent accidents. This is not just a safety measure but also adds to the ambience of your pool area at night.
Emergency Equipment
Always have safety equipment like life rings or rescue poles nearby. In addition, a first aid kit should be easily accessible and well-stocked, ensuring you’re prepared for any minor accidents or injuries.
Regular Maintenance Checks
Routine checks of the pool’s filtration system, pumps, and other mechanical systems are crucial to ensure everything is operating correctly. This not only maintains the water quality but also prevents mechanical failures that could pose safety hazards.
Swimming Lessons
Encourage or provide swimming lessons for frequent pool users. Knowledge and confidence in swimming significantly reduce the risk of drowning and other water-related accidents.
Supervision
There should always be a responsible adult supervising when children are in the pool area. Constant, undistracted supervision is key to preventing accidents.
Establish Pool Rules
Set clear, enforceable rules for pool use. These might include no rough play, no glass containers near the pool, and limits on the number of people in the pool at one time. Consistently enforcing these rules helps maintain a safe environment.
Cover the Pool
When the pool is not in use, especially for extended periods, a pool cover and sturdy pool fence can prevent accidental falls into the water. It also helps in maintaining the cleanliness of the pool.
At the end of the day, while a pool is a source of joy and relaxation, its safety should never be taken lightly. Implementing these simple tips can make a significant difference in ensuring a hazard-free zone. It’s about being vigilant but also about educating everyone who uses the pool about the importance of safety. Regular upkeep, clear communication, and an understanding of basic safety practices form the foundation of a secure pool area.
Remember, safety in and around the pool is a shared responsibility. It requires the commitment of not only the pool owner but also of those who enjoy its pleasures. By fostering a culture of safety, you not only protect your loved ones but also enhance the overall pool experience, making it a haven for fun, relaxation, and priceless memories. Let's dive into safety with the same enthusiasm we dive into the pool, ensuring every splash is paired with peace of mind.
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8 Landscape Design Sydney Ideas You Can Use for Your Backyard
When it comes to gardening ideas, who doesn't want to get inspired and fix their backyard?
Therefore, landscape design Sydney tips can always come in handy. If you have an unused backyard, you can easily turn it into a space for fun and relaxation. In this article, we offer you some interesting suggestions that you can apply and make your backyard your own little paradise. Read on and pick the ones that suit you.
Plant a Vegetable Garden
Growing veggies in your backyard is an organic and sustainable alternative that you should explore. Once you plant your very own vegetable garden, you'll definitely need to spend more time there. Planting and growing vegetables is a great cardio exercise for you and the veggies will add different colours and character to your backyard.
Build a Treehouse
Building a treehouse in your backyard can be such a fun and creative activity. It's a great way to bond with your family and leave the treehouse as a legacy to your family.
Hang a Hammock
Hammocks are a cheap way to enjoy your backyard. This simple and quick solution can be a place for peace and relaxation whenever you feel tense.
Add a High Fence for Privacy
Adding a high fence for extra privacy and safety is an excellent idea. This will keep away the pesky neighbours and give you the needed time of peace and solitude you deserve. Once you install a high fence, you can do whatever you want in your backyard and protect yourself from the curious neighbours.
Buy a Grill
The next step after adding a privacy fence is buying a grill. Why not gather with the family and friends on a Sunday and hang out in your backyard? Now is the perfect time to try out all of those delicious recipes on your outdoor grill!
Add Some Furniture to Your Backyard
Next to your grill, you should add some furniture for your guests. If you're on a budget, feel free to revive some old furniture and put it in your backyard. Old furniture can be found in flea markets or yard sales. The whole reshaping, painting, etc. could be a fun DIY project for the whole family.
Plant Trees
If you have a wide backyard, you should consider planting trees there. Trees will be there for future generations and you can consider those that give fruits. For instance, planting an apple tree is always a good idea. However, make sure you plant it into fruitful soil.
Build a Playground for Your Kids
If you have kids and want them to spend more time outdoors, then consider building a playground for them. The playground doesn't have to be something huge, because you only need a slide and swing to make your kids happy. This is a great idea to make them leave technology for a bit, go outside and get dirty by playing with some sand.
There are many more landscape design Sydney ideas if you need more inspiration. For that purpose, visit the Leaf, Stone and Water website.
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[https://youtu.be/Jt8pg_tRoag] Welcome to Sun Gardens Dubrovnik, Croatia (Europe). The best of Sun Gardens Dubrovnik in Dubrovnik. The general services in the establishment will be: wifi available in all areas. cycling, squash, hiking, beach, badminton equipment, diving, water sport facilities (on site), tennis court, billiards, tennis equipment and table tennis. In the bars section we will enjoy: restaurant (buffet), restaurant, snack bar, breakfast in the room, wine/champagne, room service, grocery deliveries, kid meals, bottle of water, chocolate or cookies, restaurant (à la carte), fruits, bar and packed lunches. For health, the accommodation has pool/beach towels, sun loungers or beach chairs, full body massage, waxing services, sauna, back massage, beachfront, hair cut, pool with view, outdoor pool, pool bar, spa and wellness centre, kids' pool, spa lounge/relaxation area, beauty services, spa facilities, head massage, heated pool, indoor pool, fitness, steam room, couples massage, indoor pool (all year), fitness centre, fitness/spa locker rooms, hair styling, sun umbrellas, hot tub/jacuzzi, pedicure, facial treatments, fence around pool, neck massage, hair treatments, swimming pool, body scrub, body treatments, foot massage, massage, personal trainer, outdoor pool (seasonal), fitness classes, hammam, manicure, spa/wellness packages and hair colouring. With regard to transportation we have shuttle service, secured parking, bicycle rental (additional charge), airport shuttle, parking garage, airport drop off, car hire, shuttle service (additional charge), airport pick up and airport shuttle (additional charge). For the reception we will be able to have currency exchange, 24-hour front desk, atm/cash machine on site, express check-in/check-out, tour desk, concierge service, luggage storage, newspapers, ticket service and safety deposit box. Within the related areas you can enjoy garden, sun terrace and terrace. For family enjoyment we can have books, dvds, music for children, evening entertainment, indoor play area, children's playground, babysitting/child services, kids' outdoor play equipment and kids' club. The cleaning of the facilities have included daily maid service, ironing service, dry cleaning, laundry and shoeshine. If you travel for business reasons on the premises you will have business centre, fax/photocopying and meeting/banquet facilities. barber/beauty shop, mini-market on site, gift shop and shops (on site). We could highlight other possibilities as soundproof rooms, bridal suite, facilities for disabled guests, vip room facilities, non-smoking rooms, family rooms, air conditioning, heating and lift Book now cheaper in http://ift.tt/2wI58BK You can find more info in http://ift.tt/2xCisnx We hope you have a pleasant stay in Sun Gardens Dubrovnik Other hotels in this channel Quay West Suites Sydney https://youtu.be/pmWt9n_fOfo Vanagupe Spa Resort https://youtu.be/N7z2DfAt0CQ Crowne Plaza Amman https://youtu.be/SrfELxG6c2k Park Hyatt Vienna https://youtu.be/g_-M_4V7Ne8 Hotel Klein https://youtu.be/2yrR6yaJ0mI Al Faisaliah Hotel https://youtu.be/G35cD71Zol4 Sao Rafael Suites - All Inclusive https://youtu.be/EIQMru0hU3k Londa https://youtu.be/yzYG_jCXs-U The Mercer https://youtu.be/WX_IKJkwqSI Palé Hall https://youtu.be/utW1S1baxwk The Continent Bangkok by Compass Hospitality https://youtu.be/3oEYEdL3PPs Le Méridien Munich https://youtu.be/DIm1hHSh8QU J.K. Place Firenze https://youtu.be/mBcU91l1Bhg Hotel Saint Manick https://youtu.be/UvUMnRzaF2U Parion Hotel https://youtu.be/MNQudU88e_0 We hope you have a pleasant stay in Sun Gardens Dubrovnik All images used in this video are or have been provided by Booking. If you are the owner and do not want this video to appear, simply contact us. by World Hotel Video
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Let Me Go
I don’t wanna be your hero
I don’t wanna be your big man
I just wanna fight like everyone else.
~
He’s on hour twenty seven of no sleep, so he smiles in gratitude up at Alastor as he puts a large cup on coffee next to him on his desk.
“Have I told you lately that I love you?”
“Fuck off Fenwick.”
“You love me.”
Moody makes a noise in the back of his throat, and sits at his own desk that’s pressed up against Benjy’s.
“Did you get some sleep?”
“Yeah, a few hours, in the breakroom.”
“Liar.”
“Prove it.”
Moody grumbles again, pulling a file closer to him. Their precinct was more crowded than usual, with extra people and extra phones set up everywhere. All of them, including the pair of them, were working the same case:
The abduction of Jenny Metcalf.
“Any new leads, kid?”
“I don’t think anything you didn’t hear already. We think the bio dad is good for this, but he’s been off the grid for three years.”
“What do you mean?”
“No credit card usage, not sightings of any kind. I put a trace on his accounts, but I doubt we’ll get a hit.
Jenny Metcalf was the daughter of two very wealthy people, Sydney and Roland Metcalf, and they absolutely hated each other. They’d split when she was just six months old, and the divorce had been brutal, nasty. They’d used their daughter against each other time and time again, but Sydney had finally won after Roland had broken into her home in an attempt to scare her. He would’ve gone to jail if he had been the regular sort, but he was far from the regular sort. Money could buy you anything. He hadn’t been seen by anyone in Sydney's circle since, and Jenny had just turned five last week. Sydney had meet a new man named James Atsworth, and they were set to be married next month. He and Jenny adored each other, and there was paperwork in place for him to legally adopt her.
Then, almost thirty hours ago, Jenny had disappeared from her playground at school. One second, the schoolyard aid had seen her, smiled because Jenny was quietly reading a picture book off to the side by the fence, and when had turned around to glance at the children, she’d heard a scream, and when she’d turned back around, Jenny was gone.
Benjy shudders at the thought of that. The helplessness that that woman must have felt, the guilt she might be feeling now.
Moody stands, walking the short line between Benjy’s desk and his. He hated when people were at the precinct, even on huge cases like this when they needed the man power. There had been thousands of ‘leads’ already, and they had to follow up on all of them. But Benjy knew his discomfort was deeper than that. No one liked a kidnapping case, and, as the second day was drawing closer and closer, Benjy knew Jenny’s chances of being found-alive or otherwise, were slipping away. Moody, for as gruff as he was, was always soft on kids. Benjy didn’t understand why he didn’t just go back to regular homicide investigations. Once, at a bar, Benjy had asked Moody this exact question. His partner had just looked at him and said tonelessly “would you?”
Benjy wouldn’t. He didn’t think he could, in all honesty. He’d seen too many horrible things, interviewed too many rape victims, held the hands of too many battered wives and husbands, given too many pep talks to scared kids moments before they had to testify. He’d only been on cases like these for a little over a year, but he knew in his heart that he could never go back.
This is what he needed to do.
Moody lights a cigarette and passes one to Benjy too.
“What kind of assets does this wanker have?”
“Tons of shite. Seven houses-they’ve all been checked, they’re empty, a few boats, once of which they can’t find. That’s what they’re on now, trying to find the boat.”
“They won’t. Not if he took it. That’s a waste of time.”
“I know. Thus, why I’m not on the boat.”
“What else? What else does he have?”
Benjy pulls out a few sheets of paper and starts rattling off things.
“One...two…..six lamborghinis. Four Jaguars. Pair of jet skis. Three motorcycles-that’s just excessive….a fuck ton of race horses...some property in St.Barts that we’re working with Interpol to check out, but it's more than likely undeveloped...a vineyard-”
“The horses. Do you have a list of their names?”
Benjy’s eyes sparkle.
“You mean names he could be using as aliases?”
“Aye.”
“You think this shithead would go publically as Pony Joe?”
“Be serious, Fenwick.”
Benjy lets out a breath, sucking in on the cigarette deeply and then putting it out even though it’s only half smoked, suddenly too jittery.
“Moneypenny’s Lair, Teenage Tragedy, Lady St. Grey….all of these are...oh!”
“Oh?”
“Archibald St. Clair.”
“Jesus, that’s an awful name.”
“Let me type in his info, see if I get any hits.”
Benjy pulls up the search function on his computer. It was the only one in the station, and it’d been moved to his desk because none of the other people he worked with really saw the use in it, nor could they really understand it. He’d ranted to the captain about getting everyone training, but that had just resulted in the move.
“Two Archibald St. Clairs.”
“Unfortunate.”
“One of them is pushing ninety….spends most of his time in Morocco if his bank statements are correct…”
“And the other?”
Benjy looks over the computer at Allastor.
“Just paid a significant amount of money to a leasing office in Kensington.”
Moody’s eyebrows raise.
“Looks like we’ve got a lead.”
They grab their coats, badges and batons and head out.
“Where are you two going.”
Captain Crouch eyes them warrily. Benjy has never seen him this haggard, his mustache wasn’t even waxed.
“A bit of a lead, Captain. Probably nothing. Kensington.” Moody finishes his cigarette and throws it in the trash.
Their captain opens his mouth to say something, and then nods.
“If you see anything, call for backup. I mean it.”
“Yes sir.”
Benjy let's Moody do the talking. He turns up the collar on his coat and follows his partner out the door.
~
“This is it?”
“Yeah.”
Benjy had spoken to the leasing office on the nearby payphone. Whoever Archibald St. Clair was, the realtor confirmed that he had had a small girl with him when he’d come in to rent. He’d tried to pay cash but he hadn’t had enough on him, and he’d seemed like he was in a bit of a rush.
He shared this with Moody, who sucks his teeth.
“If he doesn’t answer the door, we call for backup. This feels fishy, kid.”
“Agreed.”
Moody walks up the steps first and knocks politely, if not a bit loudly.
“Mr. St. Clair? This is the police. Would you mind answering a few questions?”
Nothing. Benjy didn’t expect there to be.
“Mr. St. Clair?”
Moody knocks again, waiting. Nothing. He pulls out his radio.
“This is Detectives Moody and Fenwick, at 4923 Chelsea Manor Street, back up is requested. Suspect in the Jenny Metcalf place is not responding to police inquir-”
“HELP!”
Both of them freeze, Benjy’s hand going to his nightstick instinctively. That voice sounds so young.
“Back up is requested, URGENTLY.”
“Fuck back up!”
Benjy starts kicking the door as hard as he can. Moody starts yelling over the noise into his radio.
“Distress signs coming from the house, officers going in. Repeat going in!”
He breaks the door down.
“Help!”
It’s coming from the stairs, all the way at the end of an incredibly long hallway. Benjy is closer to the stairs and quite a bit faster.
“Check downstairs, Moody, I’m getting the girl!”
“Fenwick!”
Benjy doesn’t stay to argue, taking the stairs two at a time.
“JENNY?!”
“HELPPP!!”
Benjy kicks the door open to the first room he comes across. Bathroom. Nothing.
“Jenny, my name is Benjy I’m a police officer, are you hurt?”
“No!”
“Can you tell me where you are, sweetheart?”
“I’m in my room!”
“Can you come out?”
“No! I’m stuck!”
Benjy kicks open door after door, finding nothing but empty room after empty room. The house is massive, he didn’t even know that places could have this many rooms, this many doors.
“Benjy, HURRY!”
“I’m hurrying, sweetheart, I’m hurrying. Can you make some more noise? Do you know the Alphabet?”
“Yeah!”
Her voice is coming from the end of the hall.
“Good girl! Can you sing it for me? It’ll help me find you.”
“A-B-C-D-E-F-G-H-I-J-K-L-M-”
Benjy kicks the door at the end of the hall down with so much force it comes off the hinges. Jenny screams at the noise. The room had recently been painted light pink, Benjy can still smell the paint fumes. There’s a bunch of new furniture and toys. It’d look like any normal little girl’s room with the exception of the very scared and very dirty little girl, still in her school uniform, tied to the footboard of the bed by a tether to her ankle. Benjy notices a bucket within her range of movement, but takes no time noticing anything else.
“Hi Jenny! I’m Benjy. I’m going to take you back home to your mom!”
“And James?”
“Yes, baby girl! And James. I just need you to hold very still for me, okay?”
“Okay.”
Jenny whimpers as Benjy pulls out his pocket knife and starts cutting at the cord. It was some form of netting, and it was really thick.
“Is the man coming back?!”
“I don’t know sweetheart, but my partner’s downstairs, he’s big and strong, he’s going to stop him if he tries, okay?”
“I wouldn’t be so sure about that. Drop it.”
Benjy’s back stiffens as the voice he doesn’t recognize speaks behind him. He feels the unmistakable sound of a gun cocking. He drops the knife.
“Don’t do anything stupid, Roland.”
“Get the fuck away from my daughter.”
“Benjy?!”
As Benjy puts his hands on his head as Jenny looks at him, her big green eyes so scared, her short red hair tangled and going six different ways.
“I’m afraid I can’t do that, Roland.”
“Yes you can, or I’m going to blow your fucking head off!”
“I hope you’re a really good shot, Roland, because if you did that right now, I don’t think I’d be the only one who got hurt.”
There’s hesitation. Benjy can sense that holding guns to people isn’t common practice to Roland.
“I’m going to stand and turn around now, okay, Roland? So you can see that I’m unarmed. We all want the same thing. We want Jenny to be safe.”
“She’s not safe if she’s with my crazy bitch of an ex-wife.”
Benjy turns slowly. Roland’s handsome face is masked with rage, he’s got a few days worth of stubble on his chin.
“That’s not your choice to make Roland. That’s the court’s choice. You know that.”
“They’re wrong!”
He shoots a shot in the air, Jenny screams, Benjy shifts ever so slightly so he’s covering more of her.
“Maybe they are Roland. Maybe they are. I don’t know. But there has to be an easier way than this, yeah?”
His face contorts with hate.
“Sydney won’t let me see her. She’s letting some fuckhead adopt her, she’s forcing me out!”
Moody appears suddenly, silently, behind Roland in the door. His baton is raised. Benjy catches his eye and looks away quickly, but he can see him in his peripheral
“Gun?” Moody mouths.
Benjy tilts his head slightly in affirmation.
“I know that’s got to be hard, Roland. I can’t imagine how hard that is, but you can’t take Jenny like this. We both know it’s not right.”
Roland’s graspon the gun falters, it lowers slightly, so it’s not directly being pointed at Benjy’s head anymore.
“You got her?” Moody mouths again. Benjy tilts his head slightly again.
“Roland, put the gun down, and we can all walk out of here. Put the gun down, Roland, and we can all go-”
At the word go, Moody whacks the back of Roland’s head and tackles, him. Benjy turns and covers Jenny as Roland pulls the trigger again, shooting the wall on his way down. He’d cut the cord enough that when Benjy picks up Jenny and tugs, she breaks free.
Jenny is screaming, but Benjy holds onto her, running as fast as he can, jumping over the tangle of limbs on the floor as he takes off.
“I’ve got you Jenny, it’s okay, it’s okay!”
His stomach sinks when he hears a gunshot, and Jenny screams again, but he doesn’t stop.
“Jenny LOOK AT ME! It’s okay! Just hold on!”
He keeps running, taking the stairs quickly and carefully, he keeps running, towards the door. He hears the sirens of backup. They’re safe.
He hears more of a commotion, it’s closer, but he keeps going. He hears another shot and suddenly, the bottom of his back in on fire. He falls, but he doesn’t realize it until he feels the hardwood floor hit the bottom of his chin. Jenny’s screaming again. He pushes himself off of her.
“Jenny. Go to the door.”
“Benjy!”
“Jenny GO TO THE DOOR!! RUN!”
There’s another gunshot and Benjy hears Moody yell in pain.
Jenny takes off down the rest of the hallway, and Benjy hears her cry out for help but soon she’s drowned out by the sound of the sierens.
He pushes himself up again, and tries to move his feet back underneath himself. But his adrenaline is pumping and for whatever reason, he can’t get his legs to listen to his brain. He starts pulling himself forward. He knows he’s hurt. He needs help. His shoulder catches on fire too and Benjy yelps from the pain.
“Where is she?!”
Roland. Benjy feels a foot in the side of his ribs, kicking him over onto his side.
“Where is she?!”
“Gone.”
It hurts to speak, but he looks up at this man, squinting. Benjy decides if he’s going to kill him, Roland is going to have to look him in the face. Benjy feels his ribs crack as more and more blows land in his side.
“You motherFUCKER!”
He aims the gun at Benjy’s face, but he rolls out of the way just in time. He hears the bullet hit the floor next to him, and then he’s being kicked in the ribs again.
“I’m gonna kill you.”
It’s a calm, chilling statement. Benjy can’t speak anymore. He sees his mother, laughing at his eighth birthday. Graham, when it was good, smiling at him from the bed. The last one, well it doesn’t surprise him, but it hurts a lot more than the kicks he’s getting in the ribs. Cleona, wearing that look on her face that she’d had when he’d seen her last; like she wanted nothing more than to fall in love with him.
It was too bad, he thinks. That’d they’d never get the chance. They would’ve really been something special.
He hears the gun cock again.
Allāhu 'akbar..
The shot fires, and he uses the last bit of strength he has to move out of the way. He moves up, the bullet hits him in the ribs, just below his heart.
“AGH!”
Moody, having been shot in the knee, has finally made it down the stairs. He tackles Roland, getting him away from Benjy, getting the gun out of his hand.
“Don’t do this! You’ve got two officers down, Metcalf, don’t make this any worse!”
The adrinnely is slowly wearing away, and blackness is creeping into his vision. He feels his breathing start to speed up, and his eyes flutter closed.
His mother, she’s smiling at him. And she looks so beautiful.
Before the world goes black, Benjy hears one last gun shot. Before the world stops, he feels himself smile back.
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New York as a Character: An Analysis of The Wiz (1978) and the Construct of Home
In the 1978 film adaption of The Wiz directed by Sydney Lumet, New York is key in creating a standout version of this classical story. Rather than a Kansas cornfield, The Wiz notably utilizes the urban landscape—though specifically New York City—to introduce nuances to the overarching theme of home. Lumet uses the vast economic disparity between different areas of the city to create a multifarious land of opportunity. By using New York landmarks, The Wiz updated well-worn territory to extrapolate new meanings and make the story relevant to a new generation of viewers.
In this version of the narrative Dorothy (Diana Ross) is a young woman, 24, afraid to go out on her own and leave home. She is a teacher and Aunt Em (Theresa Merritt) is convincing her to take a job teaching high school to make more money and to go lower the 125th street. Immediately this film is arguing for a more independent version of the character, though Dorothy does mention that her aunt has once again tried to set her up with a man. The overarching themes of family and home are still central in this version, however they have been updated for the times.
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This discussion takes place as the two women clean up after a large family dinner. The dinner, which is a musical scene, takes place in a dining room with warm colors in the scene. It is mellow yet vibrant, capturing a feeling of familial love and warmth. In comparison, Dorothy and Aunt Em’s discussion happens while the two are alone in the small kitchen which is mostly shades of white. As they talk, they go back to the dining room to fold the tablecloth and this time the room is empty showcasing Dorothy’s isolation.
This scene recalls discussions of escapism, fantasy, and homeland in regards to African-American film. Here, Aunt Em is advocating for Dorothy’s escape from 125th street to explore the rest of Manhattan. It is key to note, however, she is not suggesting Dorothy leave the boundaries of New York but to explore the other economic realities of different neighborhoods (this is maintained in the fantasy aspect of the story through the disparities of Scarecrow’s miniature cornfield between crumbling tenement buildings and the skyscrapers of Emerald City). It is interesting that the fantasy element, as we will continue to see, is grounded in New York, echoing the economic realities of different parts of the city.
In The Wiz, Dorothy and her mutt Toto are transported to the land of Oz via blizzard. This changed detail reflects the importance of location to this version of the story. Whereas The Wizard of Oz (1939) took place in Kansas and reflected the tension between rural and urban life, The Wiz takes place entirely in the urban setting of New York. Dorothy and her pals travel from Harlem, through the boroughs, reaching the emerald city in lower Manhattan. In the short documentary video Wiz on Down the Road found here, director Sydney Lumet discusses the massive scale of the “Emerald City Sequence” filmed at the World Trade Center. You can find more of these New York City landmarks listed here.
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Continuing with the theme of New York, the munchkins, here, are children who were turned into graffiti on the walls of a playground. The scene begins in darkness after Dorothy and Toto’s crash landing in a sandbox, with black-lighted highlights of color as figures slowly free themselves from the wall (this, among with its other more imaginative scenes have contributed to childhood nightmares for many). Their cryptic movements are captured in tight closeups, removing context from the scene making it all the more creepy. As the figures approach Dorothy chanting “Toto” over and over the viewer shares in her fear. The figures step out of the shadows to reveal the children, all covered in bright paint, with cheery dispositions. Just as the munchkins of the 1939 film, the children cheer for Dorothy for killing the wicked witch. In maintaining the aesthetic of a New York City park, the mother of the munchkins —Miss One (Thelma Carpenter)— is a cross of a fairy godmother and a bag lady dripping in sequins.
Miss One’s obsession with numbers brings up the implication of playing the lotto; she asks Dorothy if she would like to “play those numbers” when Dorothy gives her address, 433 Prospect Place, asking where her home went. Of course the difference in music between this film and The Wizard of Oz is monumental as I discuss here. The camera work in the munchkin land scene is dedicated to highlighting the choreography as well as the scale of the production. The director utilizes a number of crane shots that showcase the large scale, yet intricate set pieces as well as the large number of dancers. This tactic introduces a theatrical feeling to the film, reminding viewers of The Wiz’s Broadway roots.
More New York humor plays in the film when Dorothy tries to hail a cab to travel the Yellow Brick Road, only for it to immediately switch to off-duty. Defeated and confused, Dorothy is left in an empty playground one again darkened. The same shots used to showcase the dancers movements are used to convey her isolation (both physically and mentally). Not even toto is with her at this moment. Unlike other musical movies some of these shots are so zoomed out that it's hard to tell who is signing—even as Dorothy is the only character in frame. She is lost in the set, placing importance on location as well as taking attention away from Dorothy physically. She sings to the empty space in the shadows, the viewer is unable to see her face until she sings about how she is “gonna be alright” as soon as she returns home. Here her face is contorted in sadness and anxiety in this foreign place, clutching her only link to home, Toto.
Still in the shadows, Dorothy walks through rubble of a partially demolished building singing her predicament. As she concludes her song the sun rises, lighting Dorothy in red and orange. The colors of the sunset recall the color scheme of the family dinner in the opening scenes. Another crane shot positions Dorothy in a junkyard, with nothing but two dilapidated buildings standing. Though it is unclear where this scene takes place in this mythical version of New York, it’s visual similarity to the burned out buildings of the Bronx during this time is undeniable.
In terms of the scarecrow’s (Michael Jackson) introduction, we are again seeing the urbanization of rural elements. The scarecrow, rather than being stuffed with straw, is filled with garbage—the crows call him “garbage guts” with his Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup wrapper nose and popcorn bucket hat. The cornfield Scarecrow hangs in an abandoned lot surrounded by rubble and garbage. Again the scene incorporates crane shots of the scene showcasing the crow dancers with less focus on the singer, creating the same effect of isolation and theatricality as the playground scene. Overall it reads as a post-apocalyptic wasteland with a Quincy Jones soundtrack.
Scarecrow, literally, crawls out of this wasteland towards the yellow brick road:
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The loose bricks scattered among the debris turn to the neatly paved road across a bridge toward four Chrysler Towers and a Coney Island roller coaster. In the foreground of this frame we see the crooked wooden fence post, truly acting as the barrier between a neighborhood destroyed and the promise of success and pleasure. The blackened concrete gives way to a brighter gray sidewalk.
Inside this amusement park we find a setting in only slightly better condition than Scarecrow’s field. Abandoned, Dorothy and Scarecrow find the Tinman (Nipsey Russell) trapped beneath a mechanical attraction designed to look like a large black woman with large red lips curled into a sick smile and large white eyes. The image evokes mammy designs of the 19th and 20th centuries or black face characters of minstrel shows:
Like Scarecrow, the Tinman is made of garbage—a Budweiser can is in place of his wrist and he wears a playing card as a lapel pin. Additionally, unlike Dorothy, both Scarecrow and the Tinman long for escapism, continuing this overarching theme of home and opportunity. Tinman’s performance of the song “What Could I Do If I Could Feel” is shot in closeup without any crane-shots or choreography. This framing adds a more sentimental element to the moment, with a few comedic elements present. A wider shot is used for the following song “Slide Some Oil to Me” which further utilizes Russell’s comedic talents. Still without crane shots, the shot is adjusted as the trio dances around the Coney Island-esque theme park as it slowly comes to life—a Nathan’s Famous Hotdog stand further confirms this link. The framing visually creates an intimate bond between the three characters.
The in situ nature of the film takes the characters to the 42nd Street New York Public Library where they meet the Cowardly Lion (Ted Ross). Here, the filmmakers physically tether the characters to a New York landmark, in a pseudo meta manor.
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In the following “Ease On Down the Road #3” there is a wide shot of the now quartet standing atop yellow cabs in front of the Ozian New York Public Library. It is striking how the landmarks of this fantasy New York are abandoned, or at the very least, currently void of people. Aside from Munchkinland all of the scenes have had no background characters filling the visual space. This creates a isolation made more unsettling by the fact this takes place in the typically bustling metropolis of New York. Aside from this, it is also important to note the development of each neighborhood, from the virtual wasteland of Scarecrow’s home, to the abandoned amusement park of the Tinman, to the empty yet well kept library where the Cowardly Lion hides in the statue of Patience the lion.
The group continues down into the subway where the yellow brick road continues.
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The nightmarish qualities of this film mainly derive from this subway chase scene where a featureless knick-knack vendor’s puppets come to life and grow to be life size as the vendor laughs maniacally. This, of course, is made all the more scarier by the subway setting, where the group is trapper underground in dingy lighting. Truly this scene taps into many New Yorker’s distaste for the oddities of the subway system to begin with.
Chaos erupts as trash cans with teeth attack Scarecrow, wires from a callbox electrify Tinman, and tiled subway columns break free to surround Dorothy. The film utilizes the low ceilings and maze like tunnels of subway platforms to create a familiar fear.
From the subway, the film travels back above ground to nighttime in, presumably, midtown. The poppy field of The Wizard of Oz becomes an ally full of sex workers dressed in pink, purple, and red outfits between two adult film theaters. On either wall bright neon signs display sexually charged words such as “naughty,” “yummy,” “tickle,” and “thighs” to name a few. In the background a lit garage of yellow cabs can be seen. These two scenes, back to back, mature the otherwise traditionally juvenile story. And yet the presence of sex workers and adult theaters add to the authenticity of telling an unglamorized, fantasy New York. A quick google search leads to dozens of articles, including from the official Time Square website, talking about the prominence of vice in the area—gambling, prostitution, and drug dealing. At the time of production midtown was the center of sexwork and pornography in New York, before morality movements sanitized the are pushing sexworkers out. Yet the scene of the poppy girls is relatively short, and followed by “Be a Lion” where Dorothy cradles Lion, soothing him with a gentle ballad that evolves into belting. The scene is comparatively less saturated, with blue moonlight illuminating the scene. The camera alternates between shots of Dorothy from below singing to Lion in her lap and shots of Lion from above looking up at her with big eyes.
Finally the group sees the Emerald City at the bottom of manhattan with a golden apple in place of the sun illuminating everything before them. In the film this is the epitome of wealth. The city is protected by two guards and a golden vault door. Inside the city is crowded with enormous gems in the plaza of the World Trade Center.
Here the shot is framed by the base of the two towers, dwarfing the dancers by comparison. It creates a widely futuristic image where the rest of the movie created a more colorful version of the city. Additionally, the closeup on the dancers’ fashion drives home the image of wealth and exuberance.
Evilene’s (Mabel King) layer brings the story back to the dinge of the city. The exterior establishing shot shows it to be a sweatshop. The camera follows all of the degenerate characters (the sexworkers, the subway vendors, and the crows) chained together, into the shop where rows of costumed black figures work. This scene utilizes crainshots, again taking focus off the singer and onto the dancers, who upon closer look wear geometric tribal masks with large mouths and eye sockets and soot covered orange uniforms with exaggeratedly large buttocks. This combined with their hairstyles recall images of the pickaninny stereotype:
Exposed strip lights hanging about the workshop also add to the theatricality. Additionally this scene introduces the flying monkeys, portrayed as a motorcycle/human hybrid. These characters are given dark skin tones and large lips are again evoking images from minstrel shows. The protagonists are chased through Shea Stadium, the baseball stadium for the Mets at the time. Back in the layer, Dorothy pulls the fire alarm to melt the witch which acts as a cleansing rain. Her friends are put back together and the workers are freed and celebrate with dance. There are no empty spaces in this scene as the dancers take up the entire factory floor and make large gestures. The workers remove their costumes to a sultry trumpet refrain to reveal real black dancers, covered in sweat. They wear yellow costumes resembling bathing suits which show off their anatomy, again conveying a sense of humanness. In a sense this moment reads as black people shedding stereotypical images and chains of oppression which combust to achieve humanity and freedom and ultimately tying into the overarching theme of escapism. However, it is important to note in doing so they become sexualized beings—not exactly the opposite of negative stereotypes about black people.
Lena Horne’s portrayal of Glinda certainly showcases her acting ability and vocal prowess however it contributes to a colorist narrative in the film. The light skinned actor portrays Glinda, the embodiment of absolute good whereas the other Evilene is portrayed by a dark skin woman. It cannot go without acknowledgement that this, along with other negative representations of black folks, are represented by darker skinned people.
The film ends at the point of departure, on snow covered streets of Brooklyn with Dorothy clutching her dog. The lessons Dorothy learns are not reinforced by her family in one final scene and instead end with Dorothy rejoicing at her arrival home. In this way it is left ambiguous as to whether she will leave her neighborhood and take the better paying job. Thus even in this fantasy driven narrative, the resolution to leave home to make a better future is fairly unclear. Overall, The Wiz is a vibrantly colorful love letter to New York. The urban approach to this classic story was certainly monumental. It offers a story acted by an entirely black cast that does not center on black trauma or violence. It is in so many ways original despite being an adaptation of an adaptation.
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A visit to Lake Samsonvale offers tranquillity not always found at the region’s busier destinations making it an ideal spot to soak up some nature away from the crowds.
The area is accessible from sunrise to sunset with all the facilities you’ll need to celebrate a family occasion or merely enjoy an outdoor lunch. You’ll find BBQs, picnic tables and playgrounds at both McGavin View and Bullocky Rest (named as this was once a resting point for bullock teams travelling the Old North Road).
McGavin View
Bullocky Rest
Fishing in the lake is said to be world class provided you have the appropriate permit. Members of the Lake Samsonvale Water Sports Association are allowed to operate paddlecraft but there is strong talk that this will soon open up the public. Swimming is not permitted as Lake Samsonvale is the primary water supply for Moreton Bay and north Brisbane.
For hikers there’s a 4.2km (one way) bushwalking trail that links Bullocky Rest to Forgan Cove. Bird watchers and photographers will delight at the range of water birds.
Whatever activity you choose, as you gaze upon the calm waters of Lake Samsonvale, spare a thought for the once thriving community that called this land home.
Tukuwampa was originally home to the Garumngar people but was later given its official name, Samsonvale, by William Joyner who in 1845 leased approximately 400 square miles of land south of the North Pine River, extending from Moreton Bay to the D’Aguilar Range. Mr Joyner died two years later aboard the ‘Sovereign’ when it was wrecked near Stradbroke Island. His widow, Isabella, moved from Sydney to continue working the land. She later married John Griffin, owner of Whiteside, the adjoining run north of the river, and the two stations began to operate as one. Three generations of the Joyner family resided in Samsonvale for 104 years until 1945.
Home of the Joyner family at Samsonvale, photographed by Henry Gold. Image courtesy of Moreton Bay Regional Council, Image ID 375192.
These large runs were soon subdivided into 160 acre plots selling for the price of 2 shilling 6 pence bringing an influx of settlers consisting mainly of English, Scottish, Irish and German immigrants to work the land.
In 1870 Henry Gold established his property on the banks of Kobble Creek. Being centrally located he housed and operated the Samsonvale Post Office and the manual telephone exchange. He also provided land for the school, church and cemetery. The Gold family became one of the most prominent in the area occupying the region for 106 years.
During World War II an army camp and three airfields were established in the area. The Winn family volunteered 250 acres to the Women’s Land Army, whose purpose was to train women in farm work so they could continue the work of the men who had joined the services.
When Australian Paper Manufacturers selected Petrie as a proposed site for operations, their need for vast quantities of water, combined with population growth in the Redcliffe and Pine regions, inspired discussions about the region’s need for a dam. As a result Pine Rivers Shire Council dammed Sideling Creek to create Lake Kurwongbah and the Australian Paper Mill began operations in 1957. The mill eventually closed in 2013 and will soon become a university precinct.
It was quickly realised that Lake Kurwongbah would not meet the future demands of Brisbane’s water requirements and planners secretly undertook further surveying around the North Pine River with the view of creating a much larger dam.
In 1957 one of Samsonvale’s property owners discovered a caveat on his land title warning that the property was marked as a site for a future water storage scheme. Word spread among other land owners who checked their titles and found the same caveat. A public meeting was called and residents were advised that 98 properties would be affected by the proposed dam with construction estimated for 15 years’ time. Due to the long lead time and concern about the project’s effect on property values the State Government offered to buy the affected farms and half of the region’s pioneering families departed.
The Government eventually decided that the project was too big for the Pine Rivers Shire Council and brought in Brisbane City Council to manage it. BCC failed to honour previous agreements by refusing to acquire any remaining properties until the project was due to begin.
The families who chose to stay because their land was only going to be partially affected received their resumption notices in 1971 and found that their whole properties were to be resumed, in contradiction to what they were initially advised. Owners were offered inadequate pay outs (with the excuse that their land was not worth much since it was due to be resumed) which barely covered the costs of purchasing property elsewhere. Many families suffered through drawn out legal battles for some form of satisfactory resolution.
North Pine Dam (also known as Lake Samsonvale in memory of the community) opened in 1976 at a cost of $20 million. Sealed roads were built to provide easy access to the dam but an oversight caused Basin Road to cut in half a well preserved Aboriginal Bora Ring system. Later, Aboriginal groups lobbied to protect what remained but the water board rejected the proposal.
Back in the 1870s when Henry Gold was first clearing his land he had the foresight to conserve three acres of original Hoop Pine which he fenced to prevent damage from cattle. The BCC agreed to preserve this area which is one of the only surviving Hoop Pine forests in South-East Queensland. It is now called ‘Gold’s Scrub’ and is located near the lovingly maintained Samsonvale Cemetery on the opposite bank to Bullocky Rest. A persistent climbing plant, Cat’s Claw, began to spread among the native Hoop Pines but after several complaints the Commonwealth Government allocated $75,000 (more than the Golds were offered for their entire farm) for volunteers to clear the pest.
In the words of Ken Gold from his book A Boy from Samsonvale … “And so we can sum up this North Pine project as having a profound effect on a large area of land and the people who lived and worked on it. City people can bathe, wash clothes and cars, drink and cook, water their gardens and fill their swimming pools because a community profoundly disturbed made a significant sacrifice.”
Inspiration for my Lake Samsonvale image – from the ‘Land and I’ series
While North Pine Dam is a necessity for the region, I was deeply moved by the many stories I read of the people displaced by its creation. I’ve visited Lake Samsonvale a number of times without realising the history that lies beneath it and wanted to create an image to show people that there is much more to the lake than its calm surface. It’s a compelling thought that under the lake sits rusty remnants of generations of lives and that these treasures occasionally surface when water levels are low. I wanted to include the fisherman going about his pastime seemingly unfazed by the houses rising from the waters in front of him.
The houses in the image are all preserved historical houses photographed at Old Petrie Town. Included are notable properties such as the Kriesch family’s slab barn which was an original Samsonvale property, and Yebri House from the Petrie family’s homestead.
I invite you to share your own stories, photos and experiences of North Pine Dam and the Samsonvale community in the comments below so we can create a living history of this serene place for future generations.
Further reading:
Samsonvale : a history of the Samsonvale district by A. J. Gold
A boy from Samsonvale : an autobiographical account of the life and times of the community of Samsonvale from 1932 to 1980 as seen through the eyes of one of its citizens by Ken Gold
Visit:
Old Petrie Town
This project is supported by the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) which is a partnership between the Queensland Government and Moreton Bay Regional Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.
The Stories of Lake Samsonvale – from ‘The Land and I’ project A visit to Lake Samsonvale offers tranquillity not always found at the region’s busier destinations making it an ideal spot to soak up some nature away from the crowds.
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