Search results for ""schiffer publishing, ltd.""

"Kudos to Sandra Sider, for bringing simple tools to guide quilters to the playful side of design! Understanding 'the grid' can turn a simple square into a personal expression!" —designer Victoria Findlay Wolfe Your resource for a lifetime of planning and designing template-free geometric modern quilts. This compact guide is like many of the best things in life: simple. Designing a successful geometric quilt can be easy if a proportional sense of design is used, and in these pages, you'll hone that sense and use it for years to come. Tap into the power of grids and color for modern quilts so you can take basic design principles into your own hands. With clear and concise guidance, you'll learn how to build various types of grids and how to subvert them for dynamic compositions. Take on one or more of the 50 quilt-top projects, which serve as learning examples and are very easy to cut and sew. They're constructed by piecing squares and rectangles in horizontal or vertical rows. Thanks to the grid's power, all you need are the required yardages and piecing instructions. Take the grid out to play!

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An important addition to collector extraordinaire Geoffrey T. Carlton's collection of Star Wars merchandise guides, this completely revised and redeveloped second edition of Star Wars Super Collector's Wish Book, Vol. 2 focuses exclusively on toys. Guiding readers through the world of merchandise produced to capture the spirit of the wildly popular Star Wars film franchise, this volume showcases games and electronics, plushies and puppets, bobbleheads and rubber ducks, toy vehicles and craft kits, and action figures galore—plus many other items that all evoke everyone's favorite galaxy far, far away. Boasting more than 15,000 color images—including 9,000 new images added for the second edition—and directory-style categorization, this collectors' guide provides identification and values for toys from around the world, covering an astounding 24,000-plus individual toy items produced since 1977. Whether your goal is nostalgia or discovery, this resource will simplify and inform your browsing, ensuring that the Force will be with you as you venture into the world of Star Wars toys. In both quantity and quality, the volumes of the Star Wars Super Collector's Wish Book surpass all others to form the largest Star Wars collectibles identification and reference series ever produced. Though massive, the volumes boast an easy-to-use, directory-style format and thousands of color photographs that make them valuable and quick resource guides.

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In Book Two of The Law of One, the nature of each of the densities or dimensions of this octave of creation is explored in detail with special emphasis given to how evolution for our third density to the fourth density is accomplished. The relationship between the densities of creation and the energy centers of the body is investigated so that each experience can be used as catalyst for growth to balance and crystallize the energy centers of chakras of the student of evolution. Wanderers, sexual energy transfers, the physics of Dewey B. Larson, Polarization in consciousness, ritual magic, and the nature and function of the Higher Self are all explored as they are related to the Law of One. Book Two contains Sessions #27 through #50.

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Silk! Just the word invokes intrigue and fantasies of lavish mounds of richly hued fabrics. The journey of metamorphosis from caterpillar to silken luxury is miraculous. Textile artist Karen Selk delves into the amazing world of wild silk and the Indigenous people of India who raise the wild silkworms. You'll be drawn into the captivating world of a unique living culture that has been engaged in a sustainable industry for generations. Photos and anecdotes captured from weavers, spinners, and silkworm farmers transport you into their homes and villages to get an up-close look at the intimate connection to the skill, dedication, and specialized tools and techniques the artisans use to transform cocoons into yarn and luxurious fabrics. This little-known industry not only provides us with resplendent cloth but improves our environment and provides a sustainable income, allowing families and communities to stay together while preserving a way of life.

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When commissioned on December 14, 1927, USS Lexington and her sister ship, USS Saratoga, were the world’s largest aircraft carriers. The Lexington-class carriers, as the ships were known, were the results of an effort akin to making lemonade from lemons. Both vessels were begun in 1920–21 as Lexington-class battle cruisers. Lexington, originally designated CC-1 (indicating battle cruiser), would have been a formidable warship armed with eight 16-inch guns in four turrets. The Washington Naval Treaty of 1922 banned the constructions of such ships but permitted the conversion of such hulls into aircraft carriers. Accordingly, the “Lady Lex,” as she became known to her crew, was finished as a massive 888-foot-long aircraft carrier and retained the originally planned revolutionary turboelectric drive. From the outset, Lexington, initially carrying fabric-covered biplanes, was assigned to the Pacific Fleet. In the years leading up to WWII, both the ship and her aircraft were modernized. This profusely illustrated book, an expanded and updated version of the author’s earlier work, puts the reader on the deck of Lexington through her construction, evolution, and ultimate May 8, 1942, sinking at the Battle of Coral Sea and finishes with the discovery of her wreck on March 4, 2018. Over 200 photos, numerous line drawings, and color renderings illustrate this new entry in the Legends of Warfare series.

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Amazing characters are what bring manga to life, and this guide—created in cooperation with COPIC—gives illustrated, easy-to-understand, and thorough instructions on how to create characters that jump off the page. As manga artists around the world know, COPIC markers are not simply for "coloring" . . . their blendability and color range mean amazing realism and special effects. For any of the five styles of manga (shonen, shojo, seinen, josei, and kodomomuke), expert artist Midorihana teaches 14 key techniques, plus in-depth instruction on the all-important details like fabric bulges, hair flow and shine, gloves, and eye expressions. Also features dozens of sample patterns to copy or modify. Techniques include gradation and shading; using white ink; color order; how to think about shadows; how to draw key elements like eyes, lips, and patterned items; how to create heaviness; and more. Master these skills in a hands-on way with the book's genius approach of guiding you through creating seven professionally drawn character scenes: "Demise of the Crown," "Ya! Summer Vacation," "Miss Blue," "Pretty Girl Who Works at Japanese Sweets Shop," "Trainee Succubus," "Evening Walk Time," and "Rosa the Maid." Each scene is shown from line drawing through coloring stages to completion. Also featured: a complete reference chart of all 358 COPIC Sketch and Ciao colors. Make your art come to life with this tool and with the companion book from Midorihana, How to Render Eye-Catching Textures with COPIC Markers.

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A collection of hand-painted tattoo flash by prolific artist “John Wesley Harden,” a one-time member of the notorious Outlaws Motorcycle Club. Harden’s hand-painted flash embodies tattoo imagery of the 1970s, '80s, and '90s that was popular among biker subculture and military personnel primarily in the southeastern region of the United States. Harden bounced between Florida and Alabama, which is where he drew his inspiration for most of his unique designs. Although this book is not his complete collection of painted works, the imagery here captures the essence of a time in history when tattooing was mysterious, magical, and dangerous.

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This graphically delightful primer handily defines the seven characteristics of good design and shows why it matters! What do a folding bicycle, umbrella, toilet brush, and water bottle all have in common? They are examples of good design—something we often recognize but can't express in words. This book by a 40-year design-industry veteran targets creatives of all ages, including tweens, teens, and STEAM students and their parents, by making a complex subject accessible. Each of the seven chapters defines and explains a characteristic of good design, accompanied by five examples of product designs rendered in cut-paper art. The colorful artwork and clear, simple language make complex and sometimes abstract ideas easy to understand. Readers will see a wide range of everyday objects that meet the criteria for good design: works well, looks good, opens our minds to new ideas, improves lives, brings joy, is innovative, and stands the test of time.

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This beautifully illustrated volume provides an in-depth look at horology: the scientific study of time and timekeeping. Horology is a thorough introduction to the world of time and watchmaking. Brimming with more than 150 detailed and full-color images, illustrations, charts, and technical drawings, this book is a must-have for anyone interested in the art of watchmaking and watch design. It includes the requisite exploration and presentation of the rarest, most coveted, and classic watch designs and styles, including Jaeger-LeCoultre, Patek Philippe, Rolex, Cartier, Breitling and many others. Topics include early calendars modern timekeeping the smallest unit of time the twin paradox the golden ratio evolving design, using the Vacheron Constantin 222 as a case study decorative watchmaking techniques, including brushing, chamfering, circular graining, chiseling, and more A multifaceted study, Horology discusses the philosophy and measurement of time, the possibility of time travel, and the emergent smartwatch industry. What once seemed complicated will be demystified through a comprehensive overview of watch movements, complications, and parts. A behind-the-scenes peek into the watch industry, plus pricing and market data, rounds out the contents. Readers will leave these pages with a newfound, renewed, and enhanced love of watchmaking, as well as an increased appreciation for the value and passing of time. A watch is our most intimate connection with time and a way to keep in touch with our artisanal past.

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Physical mediumship, where spirits of the departed speak or interact directly with the living, is a rare but very real phenomenon. In this fascinating book, Elaine Kuzmeskus retraces historical séance sessions and retells firsthand accounts of spirits reaching from beyond the veil so that we, the living, can better understand what happens in these encounters and why. Written by a college professor and skilled practitioner, it includes a comprehensive review of physical mediumship that covers psychometry, billet readings, slate writing, electronic voice phenomena, spirit cabinets, trumpet mediumship, materialization, and much more. Rich with perspectives of this veteran medium who has attended séances with the world’s top physical mediums, there are exercises to help you get started to develop your skills. The appendix includes notes from 22 séance sessions for further study. Complete with a bibliography, a glossary, and a helpful index for quick reference, this compendium will become your touchstone for mediumship.

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A colorful board book that introduces conscious breathing to the youngest reader! Take a big breath in and let a big breath out is the mantra of this interactive board book that teaches conscious breathing to children (and adults) through everyday actions like smelling flowers and blowing bubbles. These identifiable activities make the concept of mindful breathing accessible to toddlers and easy to learn and practice. The interactive spread with five lift-the-flaps reinforces fundamental counting skills from 1 to 5 and the basic breathing techniques presented. The reassuring ending reminds children that everything will be okay, because when things get rough they will know to first huff and then puff.

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For any ceramic artist who has ever dreamed of making cuerda seca (literally "dry line") tile, this practical and comprehensive handbook covers every aspect of the process, from formulating the right clay body to final installation. Studio layout, equipment, tools, materials, design methods, and printing techniques are discussed clearly and succinctly, with an eye toward making you comfortable and confident with the process. Design considerations and constraints are illustrated with real-life examples, so that you can make informed choices about patterns and glazes. Delve into cuerda seca's history and context in the societies of India, the Middle East, Spain, and the western United States to understand the roots of this stunning tile. The exuberance of cuerda seca will inspire you to take this delightful art form further and higher still. An invaluable resource for individual ceramists and production studios alike, this is the perfect companion on the cuerda seca journey.

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It’s a super cute, can’t fail, totally awesome, drawing, lettering, & coloring book for kids! Creative kids will have fun and develop art skills with this boredom-busting guide that is packed with art lessons and activity pages. From cute animals and yummy desserts to trees, flowers, unicorns, and letters–kids will be amazed at what they can draw when they follow along with author and art teacher, Mrs. Arnold! • More than 100 step-by-step drawing lessons for cute animals, yummy desserts, nature themes, and others. • Lettering lessons for three different alphabet styles. • Pun-tastic coloring pages! • Printed on high-quality art paper so you can use your favorite art materials. • Boredom buster! High-quality art paper and flaps on both front and back make this book a beautiful gift item as well as a useful instruction book.

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The struggle for armored dominance sometimes overshadows the vital and unsung heroes of the battlefield: the engineers. Combat engineer vehicles spearhead armored attacks, breach obstacles, and prepare defenses. Born of necessity, these amazing vehicles have developed from humble beginnings to technological and mechanical marvels. After a slow and unimaginative start, the US Army has developed and fielded some of the most prolific and advanced combat engineer vehicles ever used. This book provides a rare look at these amazing machines and the crews that operated them. Vehicles covered are the M728 Combat Engineer Vehicle; Armored Vehicle Launched Bridge; M9 Armored Combat Earthmover; M9 ACE and M60 AVLB; M1132 Stryker Engineer Squad Vehicle; M2 Bradley, Wolverine, and Assault Breaching Vehicle; and Grizzly and Panther 2, as well as experimental and limited-use vehicles. Along with providing technical information, author Jeffrey DeRosa analyzes the operational effectiveness of each vehicle.

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This user-friendly, compact identification guide explores the diverse world of gulls! Although they are familiar and amusing characters, gulls are frequently dismissed as common "parking lot" birds or because their diverse species can be hard to identify. Both assumptions disregard the beauty and grace of gulls, which are among the most approachable of North America's birds. Ranging in size from the dovelike Little Gull to the eagle-like Great Black-Backed Gull, their behavior and habitats are equally varied. A user-friendly introduction to the plumages of 27 North American gull species in different stages of maturity More than 500 color photos with detailed captions Foldout comparison guides This photographic field guide allows readers to better appreciate these charismatic birds by learning shortcuts for easy identification in the field.

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The design, development, and evolution of the Bell UH-1 Huey in combat during the Vietnam War. Few implements of war are as representative of the US presence in Vietnam as the Bell Huey UH-1-series helicopters. Whether serving in the role of troop transport for airborne assault, supply transports, aerial gunships, or medical evacuation, the Huey was seemingly everywhere. The versatile aircraft, officially the "Iroquois," was affectionately known to all as the "Huey," a name derived from its early model designation of HU-1A. The Huey, later redesignated UH-1, was a mainstay during America's presence in Vietnam, and 11 Huey crewmen earned the Medal of Honor. Carefully researched archival documents and More than 170 color and black-and-white photographs This comprehensive volume details the complete, colorful, and important history of this iconic helicopter and the men who flew it.

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An award-winning oracle deck connecting you with your divinity as you discover the mystical world and wisdom of the hummingbirds.

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The design, manufacturing, development, and combat use of the various Mauser rifle models from 1918 through World War II. Post-WWI manufacturers defined the characteristics of a future German regulation rifle, the Mauser, derived from the WWI-era Gewehr 98. After the Nazi accession of the German government, the improved version of the Gewehr 98 was adopted in 1934 under the designation "K98k." This book presents the various models of this famous rifle, as well as the changes made to its manufacture during the Second World War. Close-up views of markings Serial numbers list A visual breakdown of the weapons Accessories such as ammunition, ammo pouches, bayonets, magazines, scopes, and cleaning kits Rarely seen combat-related uniform and equipment items This full-color, illustrated book is the second of two volumes on Mauser rifles, written by Luc Guillou, a writer and editor for REGI ARM publishing in Paris, who has written extensively on historical and modern weaponry.

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Born of necessity during the Vietnam War, the Vought A-7 Corsair II ushered in a level of lethality, target accuracy, and economy not realized in any plane before it, and, arguably, any that followed. Originally designed as a "bomb truck," the A-7 would, with the assistance (and insistence) of the US Air Force, realize its full potential. It was the first combat aircraft to feature a heads-up display (HUD)—an incredibly accurate, integrated navigation/weapons computer—and a host of other innovations like fly-by-wire and forward-looking infrared (FLIR) cameras, abilities today's combat pilot takes for granted. This book tells the story of the A-7 from design and development to combat deployment from Vietnam to its last use in Operation Desert Storm. Its multiple variants are discussed along with its use by the US Navy and Air Force, as well as overseas with the air forces of Greece and Portugal.

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Learn how to make 20 modern-vibe projects using the technique of pulling wool strips. Related to punch needle rug hooking, this process has similar traditional roots, but wool strips provide a different form of expression and a unique look. Whether you're a complete beginner, an established fan of punch needle rug hooking, or at the intermediate level, expert Katie Kriner teaches the process and offers 20 projects for honing your skills, and the designs are a variety of styles, including rustic, primitive, chic, and modern. First enjoy learning about this craft's antique origins, then understand what tools and materials you'll need for creating and working with strips of wool. To get you started on the craft itself, Katie teaches 3 simple projects and 2 basic finishing techniques. This lets you create the 17 "next step up" projects, including pillows, wall hangings, floor rugs, bags, holiday decorations, tea cozy, wine tote, footstool, and even mug rugs. You'll learn various techniques for finishing and binding, mounting, backgrounds, assembling pieces, beading, and more. Make the projects as they're taught, or use them as springboards for customizing and expressing your own design style.

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This yearlong workshop guides you through 52 weekly lessons that not only improve your technical skills but refine your personal style, preferences, and expression. The first half of the year focuses on learning and polishing the building blocks—such as line, perspective, and shading—while the second empowers you to make choices and question “methods.” Each week includes an introductory quote from art history, what (and how) to practice for the specific lesson, and further “if you have time” suggestions to build on. Going beyond simple step by step, each lesson also includes works by artists in other mediums to look up, rooting the theme in its broader artistic context. By the final assessment lesson of week 52, you’ll be more skillful and knowledgeable about drawing, and about yourself as an artist.

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This fun, simple little book introduces you to floral doodling through patterns and motifs to keep your imagination flowing. Flowers, leaves, vines, and more are a delight to draw, with their many shapes and colors providing never-ending variations. The no-pressure doodling approach gives you a relaxing creative activity that you can easily customize as your own. Create unlimited styles, both on paper and to decorate whatever objects you'd like. With how-tos, prompt pages, coloring pages, and space to practice, the high-quality art paper is ready for your pens, paints, and journaling. This book also includes pretty cutouts like gift tags, writing paper, and bookmarks to use yourself and share with friends.

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When the Myasishchev design bureau was reborn in 1951, it was immediately tasked with creating a high-speed strategic bomber to balance the threat posed by NATO’s heavy bombers, notably the B-52. Designated M-4 and code-named "Bison" by NATO, the new four-turbojet bomber was developed within an incredibly short time—just one year. It made use of many innovative features, including a bicycle landing gear, and was designed around the most powerful jet engine of the day. It became the progenitor of a small family of bombers and refueling tankers, including the much-improved 3M and its versions. Many of the intended versions never materialized, and the Bison had its share of problems, but it came at just the right time, providing a valuable nuclear deterrent, and remained in service for 40 years until retired in compliance with the START treaty. The book charts the first Soviet strategic jet bomber’s development and operational history. It includes the story of how the 3M was adapted to carry components of the Energiya/Buran space transport system as the VM-T Atlant outsized-cargo transporter.

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A fun game where players answer trivia questions about art history and collect artwork along the way. A delightful and easy-to-set-up game for ages 14 and up. Be the first to collect five artworks and prove, officially, that you know your stuff. Players who answer trivia correctly exchange their Trivia Cards for Artwork Cards. Get enough Artwork Cards and you win the game! Players can also use Rogue Scholar Cards to help them answer questions, protect their artwork from getting stolen, and sabotage other players. Trivia questions are multiple choice, and the difficulty level varies (ranging, for example, from What body part did Van Gogh cut off? to How many pet chow chows did Georgia O'Keeffe own during her lifetime?). For four to six players. Funny, and at times playfully irreverent and a little absurd, this game dispels the myth that art and art history are only for stuffy intellectuals

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A deck depicted in magical settings to connect the reader to intuition and healing modalities.

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The General Dynamics F-111 was one of aviation history's most promising planes when it came out in the early 1960s. Despite a rocky service career, political changes in how the military acquired its weaponry, and the addition of too much new technology, the plane provided a credible frontline deterrent in the Cold War era and was used to great effect in the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm. Many of the challenges faced by putting the F-111—with all of its new systems—into service are now accepted as a normal outfit in modern fighter aircraft. Although the Navy did not accept the F-111B model, the Grumman F-14 Tomcat development program was significantly assisted by prior radar and missile system testing on the F-111B airframe. The F-111 was a hugely powerful aircraft and carried devastating weaponry, but was phased out by the USAF in the mid-90s, largely due to crippling maintenance costs. The aircraft remained in Australian service until 2010.

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Live your best life with this beautiful book featuring 52 illustrated ideas that celebrate self-care, mindfulness, and relaxation! In this charmingly illustrated gift book, renowned artist Olivia Gibbs shares 52 simple ideas for having happier days. From taking an aroma-filled flower bath to spending more time in nature, you will find simple yet effective ideas that celebrate life’s simple pleasures. A beautifully illustrated hardcover gift book. 52 simple yet effective ideas for self-care. Themes include caring for houseplants, making smoothies, spending time in nature, exercising, enjoying time with friends, meditation, and more. The book is organized into six themes: Outdoors, At Home, With Others, The Little Things, When Life is Hard, and The Big Picture. Extra room is provided for journaling. BONUS: 16 “tear-and-share” mini-postcards are included. A beautiful and timeless gift for anyone looking for inspiration in a chaotic world!

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This book charts the development and service history of the Antonov design bureau's heavy transport aircraft. In the late 1950s, the Antonov design bureau began developing the An-22 heavy military transport, intended to carry 50 tons. Powered by four 15,000 hp turboprops, it was the world’s heaviest transport when it first flew in February 1965. The four-turbofan An-124 was again the world’s most capable airlifter when it emerged in 1982, with a payload of 120 tons. It proved its worth in military and humanitarian operations and earned acclaim as a commercial freighter after 1991 for carrying heavy and outsized items. The unique six-engined An-225 "Mriya" was created for carrying the Buran space shuttle. Despite the demise of the Buran program, the aircraft found use on the heavy/outsized cargo transportation market. It is illustrated by a wealth of new photos and color artwork, as well as line drawings.​

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Explore the extraordinary beauty of ice crystals, and how, what, when, and why these formations occur. Fun hands-on exercises and guided science experiments encourage budding meteorologists to explore science, discover the natural beauty of ice crystals, and follow the complex process of how they form. Loaded with activities, including making static electricity and building snowflake models, as well as removable coloring pages and a snowflake crossword puzzle, this book makes learning fun and helps cure the winter blues. So get out there with the snowflake collector pages and get started catching and documenting your own snowflakes!

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THEY KNOW YOUR NAME! Voices are calling us—voices without an attached form. Encounters with these disembodied voices warn us, haunt us, confuse us, inspire us . . . and scare us. For good reason . . . Explore spine-chilling, true stories from investigations and real occurrences throughout history that expose disembodied voices. Objectively and thoroughly presented, the evidence and theories shine light on possible reasons and agendas for these voices and where they might originate. Gain insight into what they are and what we may be able to learn from them. Sometimes they inspire great acts; other times they lead us astray. Are they forgotten woodland deities? Is it an ancient evil from the days of Eden? Is there a single intelligence behind them all . . . or perhaps we shouldn’t look too deeply . . . or else . . . Famous reports from history as well as never-before-published reports of disembodied voices from the everyday lives of common people are discussed. But what about you? When the voices call, will you answer? Hair-raising conclusions found here will make you think twice.

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A unique, illustrated history of the US Navy Fighter Weapons School's 50-year history. This book provides a unique, illustrated history of the US Navy Fighter Weapons School’s 50-year history. Currently located at Naval Air Station Fallon, Nevada, TOPGUN was formed in late 1968 at Naval Air Station Miramar, California, to create a graduate-level course in fighter tactics for Navy pilots deploying to Vietnam. Before TOPGUN, Navy F-4 Phantom II fighter crews in Vietnam managed only a 2.5:1 kill ratio versus Soviet-built MiG-17 and MiG-21 fighters: after TOPGUN formed, the community tallied a 12.5:1 kill ratio. Since then, TOPGUN has become the standard-bearer of Navy fighter and strike fighter tactics and training and is recognized worldwide as a center of excellence. TOPGUN’s tactics and pilot training are explained, as well as changes and developments throughout the years to the present day. All aircraft flown at TOPGUN since its founding are shown. A-4 Skyhawk T-38A/B Talon F-5E/F Tiger II F-16N Viper F-14A Tomcat F/A-18 Hornet F-16A/B Falcon F/A-18E/F Super Hornet Brad Elward has written on military aviation topics since 1997. He has authored articles on TOPGUN for The Hook and Combat Aircraft magazines and has published 11 aviation books and over 50 aviation articles.

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Thirty practical and exciting concepts for understanding and using the Law of Attraction to manifest your dreams. Wondering why your desires haven’t manifested despite your best efforts to attract them? Are you fed up pretending to be happy in name of positive thinking? Or does your life seem like it’s heading nowhere? Fret no more. With thirty processes that present the most powerful and pervasive Law of the Universe in a simple, precise, and easy-to-use manner, this exciting book gets straight to the point about what needs and doesn’t need to be done to a live a life of true abundance. Through a clear, concrete, and measurable way, now you can take giant strides toward your desires. Teeming with techniques that not only explain the nuances of the Law of Attraction but also make it easy to understand and use on a daily basis, this book was created for the sole purpose of making the Law as practical and user-friendly as possible. You can do it this time! You can manifest your dreams!

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Inspired by one of the oldest and greatest epics known to man, the Mahabharatathe oldest recorded document in existenceis reflective of human errors and foibles, a triumph of good over evil. Heighten your awareness with this intriguing, original, first on the subject, 36-card deck and guidebook, which embody archetypes of the attributes of the human psyche born of emotions and feelings that recur periodically. A wide spectrum of emotions, dualities, miracles, philosophies, spirituality, and other elements are displayed. The rich and striking card images display concepts such as space travel, ancient sci-fi, elastic time, astral travel, visitations, and more. It's all here, and the otherworldly connections will spur you to expand your psyche. And you will witness the poetic beauty of ancient traditions as they transform the spiritual teachings presented in this powerful package. Card dimensions: 3 1/2 x 5

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Although not a weapon in the traditional sense of the word, arguably no item in the Allied arsenal contributed as much to the defeat of the Axis during WWII as did the Liberty ships. The 2,710 Liberty ships placed into service between 1941 and 1945 provided a vital link in the supply chain not only of US but also Allied forces during WWII. Although the basic design itself was obsolete even before the first one slid down the builder’s ways, it had the advantage of being relatively easy to produce, and simple to operate and maintain. Thus, the vessels were mass-produced by no fewer than eighteen shipyards. Building time, initially 244 days, dropped to forty-two days per ship, although as a publicity stunt the Robert E. Peary was launched four days and fifteen and a half hours after the keel was laid.

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A detailed technical and operational history of a deadly and long-serving Soviet/Russian gunship and attack helicopter. The Mil Mi-24 Soviet/Russian gunship and attack helicopter has been in continuous combat service since its first appearance in the early 1970s. The Mil Mi-24’s impressive performance, ability to transport fully armed troops, and imposing armament soon earned the Mi-24 the nickname “Crocodile” and have made the big helicopter an opponent that is still feared to this day. The Mi-24’s technical, developmental, and operational details, as well as upgrades and variants, all are discussed here. Included are discussions of all versions, armament, radio, radar warning and navigational equipment, and defense systems. Tactics and operations are also presented, with special emphasis on the Mi-24’s service in Afghanistan from 1979 to 1989. Worldwide use by over 30 countries includes the air forces of Angola, Brazil, Cuba, India, Iraq, North Korea, Syria, Vietnam, Yemen, and others. Author Michael Normann performed his military service in an East German helicopter unit and is an expert on the Mi-24.

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No less than Dwight Eisenhower described Andrew Jackson Higgins as "the man who won the war for us," referring to the landing craft he perfected. Those craft, the WWII LCP(L), LCP(R), LCV, LCVP, and LCM, are presented in this volume (the first of two on US landing craft), along with the larger LCI (Landing Craft, Infantry). These vessels, built in the tens of thousands, formed the armada that put Allied troops ashore in North Africa, the Aleutians, and Normandy and across the Pacific. Though many of these designs were initially planned as essentially disposable vessels, ultimately many of these continued to serve the nation's need through Vietnam. Some were even heavily laden with rocket launchers and used for close-in support for troops going ashore. Part of the Legends of Warfare series.

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Remove the mystery around handguns with this simple beginner's guide. When one is not knowledgeable, the idea of shooting, or being around, a handgun can be frightening. Written for the novice shooter, this guide focuses on the fundamentals needed to own and operate a handgun. Using clear and concise language and illustrations, the authors break down step by step how to handle and shoot a handgun. Learn the three simple rules to ensure safety at all times, and what to look for when buying your first handgun. Understand how a handgun functions and the different components of ammunition. Know the common problems that shooters experience and how to fix them. Arm yourself for success and handle any handgun with confidence!

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Discover the lives of Cuba's dogs through the lens of award-winning photographer Emmy Park. This book is full of beautiful and raw images; explore the relationship between Cubans and their canine companions that roam the colorful streets, iconic landmarks, and remote areas of Cuba. Learn about local animal rescue organizations that provide care and medical attention to dogs without homes, and why they need support. Featuring every Cuban province, be transported into the daily lives of dogs against the backdrop of rugged streets and lush landscapes.

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This ABC primer is a playful and richly symbolic introduction to the world of Wicca and the magic of Nature. Illustrated poems bring to light the Pagan Path, with each letter featuring a Wee Witch learning about the wheel of the year, tools of the Craft, rites of passage, faerie friends, and meaningful colors. This is a helpful and affirming tool for Pagan families, as well as an appealing collection of subtle, educational light verse for their budding Wee Witches, including A for Acorn, M for Maypole, and S for Spiderweb. Accurate symbols of Witches’ worldview are woven throughout the magical artwork, as well as hidden clues to a secret “Witch Name” revealed at the end of the book.

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Lively, colorful, and skillfully made fabric “portraits” of 182 endangered species bring them to real, vibrant life. Each portrait features fascinating animal and plant facts from rescuers, scientists, conservationists, and more: where they live, what their superpowers are, why they are at risk, and how we can help. Dedicated and passionate people who work to protect endangered species share details of their roles and specialties, the planning behind conservation measures, threats to healthy habitats, and inspiring success stories. This book fosters eco-awareness and responsibility with a hopeful and positive tone, not only educating but inspiring action. A percentage of money earned by the author from the sale of this book will be donated to the Sea Turtle Conservancy and to the WILD Foundation.

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As interest in Russia increases, increased value and attention are focused on its history-rich ethnic dolls, and this is the only comprehensive resource available. For those who collect, deal in, or appraise dolls from the 1920s to the 1980s, here are essential tips on identification; helpful resource documents such as rare postcards, advertising, and press photos; and over 800 photos of Russian dolls dressed in costumes representing Russian historical periods, as well as those featuring various ethnic cultures. Begins in the 1920s with antique dolls of bisque and cloth stockinette, then travels into the 1930s and 1940s for the composition dolls, and moves on to the 1960s through the 1980s, when the USSR was showcasing its fifteen republics with dolls of plastic. Also covers dolls representing various folklore characters, as well as the popular Russian tea cozy dolls.

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The climate is changing, and so must domestic architecture. Premium materials—brick, stone, wood—and timeless design used to be the key to building homes that would last for generations. But a warming planet, coupled with severe weather events, has changed the equation and raised the stakes, sometimes literally. Aimed at homeowners, architects, and builders, this book presents sixteen innovative homes that represent the best of resilient-home practices in four categories—earth, wind, fire, and water—plus a list of resources from organizations such as FEMA and the National Fire Protection Agency. Few local building codes provide adequate protection from the forces of global warming, which will proliferate in this century. These examples illustrate the importance of next-level home design to help resist climate change—the most urgent issue of our time.

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The rudimentary beauty of black-and-white cows, weathered barns, workhorses, and agricultural patterns makes Lancaster County remarkably photogenic. In nearly 100 images, including historic sites and rolling hills along the Susquehanna River, lifetime resident Don Shenk captures the simplicity and striking scenery of this agrarian-based county, home to the world's largest Amish population, as it changes from season to season. From sleepy snow-coated fields in winter to the colorful bounty of summer being sold at market, from the re-awakening of orchards in spring to a crisp buggy ride through autumn's dappled light, Lancaster County showcases its natural beauty and charm in this compact book. This is a wonderful gift for a friend, keepsake to remember a visit, or token of home for all who love Lancaster County.

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This easy, accessible, and fun approach to basket making offers instructions for 18 beautiful and useful baskets. Beginning with simple basket designs and progressing to more-advanced techniques, you build new skills with each project. Follow along from one to the next, or jump ahead to the more advanced baskets to expand your intermediate skills. The practical projects include a market basket, square-to-round storage basket, spiral twill basket, catch-all bathroom basket, cat-head bowl, and many others. Instructions for adding embellishments, color, and shaping are included to help new basketmakers turn a project into a personal treasure. A chart for designing your own market baskets in six different sizes is invaluable, and photos of work by today’s top basketmakers serve as inspiration. This book is the ideal guide for anyone interested in learning to make handbuilt baskets.

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