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|The new Dave Niehaus statue
Meanwhile, Shannon drove the family to the game and texted me the location of her parking spot. I locked up the bike on the car rack and joined the game in the early innings. Since this is our last game for the season, we decided to take the kids to the Hit it Here Cafe, a restaurant overlooking Ichiro in right field. Unfortunately, the Mariner's lost to Dr. F's Texas Rangers, 7-6.
As a bonus, we got to see the statue of longtime Mariners broadcaster Dave Niehaus, which was unveiled on Friday. My oh my, it's fabulous. All who knew him say it is a remarkable likeness. What I like is that his score book (in bronze) is on the table and it is open to the game where the Mariners beat the Yankees in the 1995 playoffs on Edgar Martinez's 11th inning double, scoring Ken Griffey, Jr. with the game winning run. Dave was like everyone's grandpa in Seattle, a suburb storyteller who joined the Mariners for their inaugural season and continued through 2010 until his death in November. He will be missed, but his warm and lifelike statue is a great reminder of a wonderful broadcaster.
Here are some pictures from my ride.
|As you might imagine, I got lost here
|Ah, that's better...
|If you're in Seattle, visit the Museum of Flight
|Starbucks corporate HQ is right down the street from Safeco Field
|And finally, arriving at Safeco Field, visible in the center of this picture. The structure on the upper right is the retractable roof. The Columbia Tower, where I did The Big Climb, looms in the distance.


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subset: commoncrawl


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Deal falling into place between Myrick Hixon EcoPark and city
LA CROSSE, Wis. - A deal is on the table between Myrick Hixon EcoPark and the city of La Crosse.
The park's future has been a turbulent issue in La Crosse since the Myrick Park Zoo was shut down years ago to make room for construction.
The deal, which still has to be approved by City Council, would allow the park to keep operating on city land for the next decade.
That means the park would be able to start a major fundraising campaign to finish the four "playscapes" already under construction.
La Crosse resident Jordan Raether took a pause in his morning run to look at the signs in the EcoPark mapping out the site's future plans. He remembers when this used to be Myrick Park Zoo.19935970
"It was like a hidden gem, walking down here with friends, and we discovered there was a zoo right here and it was sort of unbelievable," said Raether.
But back in 2007, the bears and monkeys were moved out of their home to make room for the EcoPark.
"City and state funding wasn't there to continue to operate a zoo. The habitat that was here was not very well taken care of," said Jean Chromey, the EcoPark's new executive director. "The city chose to close the zoo and the vision of an EcoPark became apparent."
Instead of the zoo, four new playscapes are in the works -- Wild Water, Forest Scramble, Farm Play and Prairie Mystery. Each integrates hands-on play with lessons about nature.
But the cash flow has stalled.
All city and state funding for the EcoPark dried up this year.
"People are wanting to see something done. It's been a while since there's been some construction and things going on here," said Chromey, "We needed to have a long-term lease with the city before we felt we could go out and start raising funds to continue the construction."
The EcoPark has come to a tentative 10-year land-use deal with city park officials, which still has to be agreed on by council.
While some La Crosse residents like Raether are excited to see it become a reality, he's frustrated visitors to the new attractions will have to pay admission when the zoo used to be free.
"I'm sort of irritated about the cost that it would be to come here," said Raether. "But the cost you pay can also produce an income to put back into Myrick Park. And so hopefully what we put back into it, the reward we get is going to be greater."
The EcoPark plans to open up the Wild Water and Forest Scramble playscapes this summer. For a time, there will be no admission charge for those two.
But once the full expansion is complete, visitors will have to pay to play.
The goal is to have the EcoPark fully operational by 2017, but Chromey said depending on how much funding it gets, the grand opening could be a full year earlier.
The proposed agreement between the EcoPark and the city of La Crosse still has to go through several committees over the next two weeks. The City Council is scheduled to make the final vote on the deal on May 9.
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Bridge Named For Veteran
ALBANY – Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed legislation Wednesday to rename the Route 394 bridge over Interstate 86 in North Harmony the "John Stow Vietnam Veterans and MIA Memorial Bridge."
The North Harmony Town Board acted on the resolution back in March and with the backing of state Sen. Cathy Young, R-C-I-Olean, and Assemblyman Andrew Goodell, R-C-I-Chautauqua County, the legislation recently reached Cuomo's desk.
The bridge naming was part of a package of highway system name changes including state roads in Madison, Erie and Schuyler counties which were also named in honor of fallen veterans, in addition to the North Harmony bridge.
"As Independence Day draws near, it is important for us to reflect on the service and sacrifice made by the men and women of the United States Armed Forces to preserve and protect the freedoms we hold so dear," Cuomo said. "These four young men believed firmly in our country's ideals, and put their lives on the line to defend those principles overseas. This bridge and these newly renamed roads will honor these brave young men, and ensure that their sacrifice is always remembered. I thank the bill sponsors for their efforts, and express my deepest sympathies and gratitude to the families for their loss."
Private First Class Stow was born in Ashville and served in the Marines during the Vietnam War. He was killed Feb. 13, 1968, at the age of 18.
"Marine PFC John L. Stow was killed in action in the Vietnam War in 1968," Young said. "PFC Stow embodies the type of heroic soldier who dedicated his life to the cause of freedom for our great nation, making the ultimate sacrifice. This bridge would memorialize PFC Stow, all soldiers who served in Vietnam, as well as all soldiers that have gone Missing in Action during their military service in our country. Many of our Vietnam Veterans were not given the recognition they deserved when they returned home and this is one way to help correct that injustice. This bill also recognizes all MIA's from every conflict so that their memories are not forgotten."
The passing of the legislation did not go unrecognized by Goodell.
"Private First Class John L. Stow, a native son of North Harmony, is by all definitions a true hero," Goodell said. "Though his tour in Vietnam was short, at just 18 years old the dedication and sacrifice he showed on behalf of his fellow Marines embodies the type of heroics that we all should strive to emulate. Now, as we pass over the John Stow Vietnam Veterans and MIA Memorial Bridge, it will serve as a small token of thanks and an ever- present reminder of the cost it takes to keep us free."


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Telegram from John Wilkes Booth
The date on this telegram is wrong. John Wilkes Booth actually sent this on March 13, 1865, the month before he assassinated President Lincoln. The telegraph company used printed forms and had not exhausted the stock of telegram messages from 1864.
National Archives, Records of the Office of the Judge Advocate General (Army)


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Debates of Oct. 22nd, 2007
House of Commons Hansard #5 of the 39th Parliament, 2nd Session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was democratic.
- Question Period
- National Peacekeepers' Day Act
- Resumption of debate on Address in Reply
- Aboriginal Affairs
- Polish Canadians
- Monique Sourdif
- Manufacturing Industry
- Cancer
- Homelessness
- Canadian Cardiovascular Society
- Ohtli Award
- Speech from the Throne
- Relève du Nord School
- Government Accountability
- Christopher Worden
- Visitor Visas
- Poverty and Homelessness
- BMO Nesbitt Marathon
- Justice
- Msgr. Bertrand Blanchet
- Public Works and Government Services
- Charter of the French Language
- Government Legislation
- Access to Information
- Elections Canada
- The Environment
- Government Appointments
- Elections Canada
- Security Certificates
- Finance
- Privacy
- Metallurgy Industry
- Fisheries and Oceans
- Democratic Reform
- Drugs and Pharmaceuticals
- Fisheries and Oceans
- Retail Industry
- Presence in Gallery
- Points of Order
- Immigration and Refugee Protection Act
- Phosphorus Control Act
- Petitions
- Questions on the Order Paper
- Privilege
- Resumption of Debate on Address in Reply
Monique Sourdif
Statements By Members
2 p.m.
Nicole Demers Laval, QC
Mr. Speaker, I would like to pay tribute today to Monique Sourdif, a resident of Laval and recipient of the Quebec "Hommage aux Aînés" award. The award recognizes the contribution of an individual to improving the well-being, quality of life, participation and role of seniors in Quebec society.
Her commitment is incontestable. For more than 25 years, she was involved in the Canadian Cancer Society, bringing support to cancer patients and their loved ones.
For more than 10 years, she worked to promote the participation and integration of seniors within organizations and private residences, and was involved in the "celebrating seniors" committee in Laval.
She helped initiate intergenerational days and, in the same spirit, founded the Maison des grands-parents. She was an administrator at the Laval FADOQ for a few years and was a co-founder of the Table de Concertation des Aînés in Laval.
Monique is an exceptional woman, and a wonderful mother and grandmother, but most of all, she is my friend. I am proud to see her honoured in this way. No one is more deserving. Bravo!
Manufacturing Industry
Statements By Members
2 p.m.
Brian Masse Windsor West, ON
Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to rise today to speak with my brothers and sisters in the CAW calling for a federal task force on manufacturing.
In the last five years more than 300,000 manufacturing jobs have been lost in this country. These are real jobs, where Canadians were able to provide for their families, that are gone. They have disappeared and the government has not been fighting back to maintain those jobs. Hence, we need a task force.
On top of this, we have seen a government continue down a wrong path of not putting in sectoral strategies. Instead, what it is doing is large corporate tax cuts that would actually reward companies when they move to Mexico, Alabama and other places.
Today we are calling for a fight for our jobs and, most importantly, to put actual workers back on the workshop floor so they are actually able to support their families.
Statements By Members
2 p.m.
Chris Warkentin Peace River, AB
Mr. Speaker, today I stand in the House to pay tribute to some real Canadian heroes.
In January of this year, a U of A doctor published findings that DCA, a commonly used drug, had shown real potential in the fight against cancer. When Peace River resident Terry Babiy learned that pharmaceutical companies would not fund the necessary $800,000 human trials due to the limited profit potential, he and the local community stepped into action.
Believing that they could raise $250,000 to contribute to the effort, the local radio stations, businesses and citizens held countless fundraisers of every imaginable form. To date, their efforts have yielded over $260,000 and an announcement that clinical trials will commence was made in recent weeks.
I commend the people of Peace Country for giving so generously for such a worthwhile cause. Their generosity is an example for communities across this great nation. I am proud to represent these hard-working and compassionate people, and even more proud to congratulate them on this success.
Statements By Members
2 p.m.
Hedy Fry Vancouver Centre, BC
Mr. Speaker, last week was the second annual homelessness week in Greater Vancouver. Vancouverites overwhelmingly identified homelessness as their number one social challenge as do many other Canadian cities.
The last Liberal government had committed $1.4 billion to a partnership with municipalities, provinces, non-profit and private sectors to provide shelters, single occupancy units, and temporary living for those Canadians who have no shelter. We had developed a cities plan with the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.
These were all swept away by the new Conservative government. Its 2004 platform along with the 2006 and 2007 budgets never mentioned homelessness nor housing. Instead, it cut the Liberal homelessness fund, restoring it much later as the rebranded homelessness national strategy with greatly decreased funding.
Now the Speech from the Throne mentions the word "homelessness" in passing: no plan, no funds. Are we to believe that after three years the government has developed a social conscience or is it just more of that smoke and mirrors trick that it does so well?
Canadian Cardiovascular Society
Statements By Members
2:05 p.m.
Steven Fletcher Charleswood—St. James—Assiniboia, MB
Mr. Speaker, I ask the House to join me in congratulating the Canadian Cardiovascular Society as it celebrates its 60th year.
Since 1947 the Canadian Cardiovascular Society has provided outstanding leadership to members of the cardiovascular medical community and helped them deliver quality health care to Canadians.
This includes the development of the angina classification system used worldwide, the creation of the pan-Canadian access to care benchmarks, and the development of recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of heart failure.
These examples demonstrate the remarkable work of Canada's cardiovascular physicians and scientists through the Canadian Cardiovascular Society. The society is also a key member of the Canadian heart health plan developed by this government.
It will undoubtedly remain an organization of great value to our country. Congratulations to the Canadian Cardiovascular Society. We look forward to the next 60 years.
Ohtli Award
Statements By Members
October 22nd, 2007 / 2:05 p.m.
Carole Freeman Châteauguay—Saint-Constant, QC
Mr. Speaker, Ms. Louise Guinois, a resident of Saint-Isidore, was honoured on September 13 by the Consul General of Mexico for her voluntary work with Mexican seasonal workers in Quebec.
Founder of Fraternité québécoise mexicana and organizer of community events for Latin American workers, Louise Guinois has been given the Ohtli Award by Mexico's Secretariat of Foreign Relations for her dedication to Mexican communities in Quebec, especially the one in her riding.
Ms. Guinois' concern for the well-being of migrant worker is a testament to her great humanity and represents a model of civic values for all citizens of Châteauguay—Saint-Constant.
Our congratulations to Ms. Guinois.
Speech from the Throne
Statements By Members
2:05 p.m.
Luc Harvey Louis-Hébert, QC
Mr. Speaker, by presenting the Speech from the Throne in prime time, our government affirmed its desire to dialogue with Canadians.
The stated priorities demonstrate the coherence of the government and its desire to take up the challenges faced.
These priorities are as follows: strengthen Canada' sovereignty and our place in the world; strengthen the federation and our democratic institutions; provide effective economic leadership for a prosperous future; tackle crime and strengthen the security of Canadians. Not to mention the major issue of implementing effective policies to improve the environment and Canadians' health.
With regard to the environment, our government has announced allocations of more than $9.3 billion to projects, five times the $1.6 billion spent by the Liberals.
We did not just make promises; we have taken real action.
Relève du Nord School
Statements By Members
2:05 p.m.
Jean-Claude D'Amours Madawaska—Restigouche, NB
Mr. Speaker, on October 13, I had the opportunity to see a show put on by the Relève du Nord school in my riding of Madawaska—Restigouche.
It was great to see the talent of those taking part, and I would like to acknowledge the remarkable performances of all those who, despite their stage fright, participated in this show.
I was also quite pleased to have been able to attend this event and discover our hidden local talents. I would like to congratulate the participants and choir members who took part in the show: Kera Long, Sophie Bélanger, Caroline Joyce Mallais, Stéphanie Albert, Megan Ouellette, Danielle St-Onge, Marie Eve Belzile, Savannah Paradis, Steffany Paradis, Sylvie Martin, Serge Nadeau, Cédrick Charest and Zoé Michaud.
I would also like to thank Nadine Caouette Foster, the chair, Barbara Michaud, and their entire team for organizing this show and showing their dedication to the arts, culture and youth.
Government Accountability
Statements By Members
2:05 p.m.
David Sweet Ancaster—Dundas—Flamborough—Westdale, ON
Mr. Speaker, under previous Liberal governments Canada's place on Transparency International's annual clean government index was in a downward spiral. After ranking fifth in 2001, by 2005 Canada dropped to fourteenth. It seemed that reports of corruption during the Liberal sponsorship scandal had taken its toll on Canada's reputation around the world as an honest, clean country that could serve as an example to the world.
However, the Conservative Party made a commitment to Canadians in the last election campaign: give us a mandate to govern and we will clean up Ottawa.
After passing the toughest anti-corruption legislation in Canadian history, the Federal Accountability Act, and other measures to strengthen accountability in government, we did just that.
This year I am proud to say that under the leadership of this Prime Minister Canada has reversed the trend and is now ninth in the world on the clean government index.
However, we are not yet satisfied. We will continue to take action and make our institutions more democratic and accountable to ensure Canada is a leader on the world stage when it comes to transparency, openness and accountability in government.
Christopher Worden
Statements By Members
2:10 p.m.
Dennis Bevington Western Arctic, NT
Mr. Speaker, over the Thanksgiving weekend the people of the community of Hay River awoke to a terrible event when a respected RCMP officer was shot and died in the line of duty.
Constable Christopher Worden had built a fine reputation in his time in the north. He was raising a family in the north and participated fully in his northern home. Such a senseless act will remain with northerners for a very long time.
Constable Worden represents so many other Canadian men and women who have taken up policing with the RCMP in the north. We are grateful for the professional, caring and sensitive work that the members provide in our far-flung communities. Like Constable Worden, their efforts go beyond police work and that makes them an integral part of the life of the people they serve.
There is little anonymity in our northern life. We know our police officers and respect them. The tragedy of the shooting of Constable Worden has touched us all. We mourn together with his family and friends in the community of Hay River. A memorial for Constable Worden will be held in Hay River this Saturday.
Visitor Visas
Statements By Members
2:10 p.m.
Gurbax Malhi Bramalea—Gore—Malton, ON
Mr. Speaker, the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration's refusal to institute a system of visitor visa bonds is hurting Canadians with family members living abroad who want to visit Canada.
Every week I hear from constituents whose close relatives and friends are denied entry to Canada for important events like weddings and funerals. Some applicants have been rejected multiple times without any proper reason. Other applicants who were granted entry under previous governments are now seeing their applications denied.
This government's lack of compassion is causing great distress to Canadians and their families in times of need.
I call on the government to immediately institute a system of visitor visa bonds and end the unfair treatment of these Canadians and their loved ones abroad.
Poverty and Homelessness
Statements By Members
2:10 p.m.
Christian Ouellet Brome—Missisquoi, QC
Mr. Speaker, on October 19, a vigil was held in 21 cities in Quebec to raise awareness of poverty and homelessness.
As part of this event, the "Pompon minute" prize, symbolized by an old patched blanket, was awarded to the Prime Minister of Canada by the organizations and people taking part in the vigil, to make him aware of the deplorable conditions in which the poor are living.
This group is on the Hill today, in the hopes of drawing the Prime Minister's attention to the issues of homelessness and social housing. Its members hope that the Prime Minister will be so concerned about the dire circumstances many people are living in that he will take real steps to improve their living conditions.
We hope that this government will stop rationalizing the funding earmarked for social housing and the fight against homelessness and will work to facilitate access to increased funding.
BMO Nesbitt Marathon
Statements By Members
2:10 p.m.
Shawn Murphy Charlottetown, PE
Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to rise in the House today to share with members news of the BMO Nesbitt Prince Edward Island marathon which took place October 13 and 14.
Over the past number of years, the marathon has been a much-anticipated tradition in Prince Edward Island and has grown tremendously to its present state of a weekend-long event with seven races, including a full marathon, a half marathon, a 10k walk, a kids run and a corporate relay.
More than 1,000 people participated in this year's marathon weekend. Race participants hailed from across Canada and the United States, and as far away as Nigeria and Japan. I should point out also that our very own member of Parliament, the member for Cardigan, completed the half-marathon walk. Not only was the marathon weekend great fun for all who attended, but it also helped to promote physical activity and healthy living.
I ask members to please join with me in offering our congratulations to race organizer Myrtle Jenkins Smith and her capable team of organizers and volunteers, and all the runners and walkers as well. It was truly a great event.
Statements By Members
2:10 p.m.
Larry Miller Bruce—Grey—Owen Sound, ON
Mr. Speaker, getting tough on crime is not a part of the Liberal agenda. It was not a priority when the Liberals were government and now, as opposition, it is even less of a concern.
This past weekend the Liberal leader outlined his vision for an alternative plan for Canada. One key element was missing, their fighting crime agenda. While this is no surprise, what is surprising is the fact that the Liberals are now trying to say that they actually care about fighting crime. In fact, for the past four months, the Liberals have been missing in action on the justice files. Now, only when there is talk of an election and the cameras are rolling, do the Liberals say that they are interested in getting tough on crime.
The tackling violent crime bill is a priority for this government because community safety is a major concern for Canadians. Two-thirds of Canadians support the government's approach to criminal justice issues, including mandatory minimum penalties for serious crime.
While the Liberals are idle on the subject of justice, this government has and will continue to deliver what Canadians want.
Msgr. Bertrand Blanchet
Statements By Members
2:15 p.m.
Louise Thibault Rimouski-Neigette—Témiscouata—Les Basques, QC
Mr. Speaker, on September 19, on his 75th birthday, the archbishop of Rimouski, Msgr. Bertrand Blanchet, retired.
Msgr. Blanchet has always been deeply committed to his community and the land it occupies, and in 1975 he did his PhD in forestry sciences. He has never hesitated to take a stand on regional issues and has made people, their progress and their development his top priority.
Msgr. Blanchet develops the region as well as the consciousness.He is a committed man who uses his wisdom and humanity to help people cope with today's challenges without ever imposing his own views.
He is an inspiration. The archbishop of Rimouski helps us represent the Quebec we love. I want to take this opportunity to pay tribute to this compassionate man of the cloth who has kept his feet firmly on the ground in eastern Quebec where he has truly left his mark.


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technology stocks
What's Really Happening to the PC Industry?
By Investment Contrarians Editor for Investment Contrarians | Apr 23, 2013
As I have talked about many times before, investing in companies that can grow corporate profits over the long term is essential when it comes to becoming a successful investor. Sometimes, though, it does pay to be a contrarian and go against the herd.
One sector that has been hit hard lately is technology stocks. Technology stocks, especially those that build hardware for personal computers (PCs), have seen corporate profits erode substantially over the past decade.
After a shift by consumers toward tablets and smartphones, the technology stocks that have not been able to adapt to these new product forms have seen a gradual but significant drop in corporate profits. The question to ask: is a turnaround possible?
The latest data indicate that technology stocks in the PC sector will face significant headwinds. For the first quarter of 2013, global PC shipments declined 13.9% compared to the same quarter in 2012, according to research firm International Data Corporation (IDC). (Source: "PC Shipments Post the Steepest Decline Ever in a Single Quarter, According to IDC," International Data Corporation web site, April 10, 2013, last accessed April 19, 2013.)
This is the worst drop year-over-year for PCs since IDC began tracking the market in 1994. This is also not an aberration, since the market has now witnessed four consecutive quarters of declines.
However, since technology stocks in the PC sector have sold off dramatically, is it possible that these stocks now offer a value trade? The recent takeover attempt on Dell Inc. (NASDAQ/DELL) might shed light on this question.
There have been several interested parties looking to take Dell private. However, recent … Read More
Is eBay a Real Powerhouse on the Stock Market?
By Investment Contrarians Editor for Investment Contrarians | Apr 22, 2013
When it comes to the recent pullback in the market, many people naturally wonder if this is the time to start accumulating certain companies, especially technology stocks. The answer, of course, is far more complicated. Obviously, each individual must assess their goals and risk profile before considering any investment.
My goal is to be on the lookout for companies that can continue to grow corporate earnings over a very long period of time. One area that has interested me for a long time because of this ability to grow corporate earnings is in technology stocks.
Recently, many technology stocks have not benefited from the surprisingly strong rally in the overall market. A major reason for this is that many investors are focusing on dividend yield rather than corporate earnings growth. Additionally, many technology stocks are not seeing exceptional corporate earnings growth, as the global economy is still somewhat weak.
Not all technology stocks are the same. There are vast differences between technology stocks, and an investor needs to dig deep when evaluating which firms can grow corporate earnings over a full decade.
One company that I have liked over the past few years has been eBay Inc. (NASDAQ/EBAY). While many people believe eBay is still primarily a place to sell your knick-knacks, they're wrong. During the latest quarter, the company reported total revenues were up 14% year-over-year. (Source: "Q1 2013 financial highlights," eBay Inc. web site, April 17, 2013.)
eBay is transitioning into a real powerhouse through its "Marketplace," which is where retailers sell fixed-price online goods. The company is now looking at adding same-day delivery services for these goods, … Read More
Technology Sector at the Bottom of the Pack: Time to Give Up on These Stocks?
By George Leong for Investment Contrarians | Apr 17, 2013
With capital shifting into the perceived safety of blue chips and large-cap stocks, small-caps and technology stocks have been declining on the charts.
Given the advance so far this year in the equities market, it's understandable to expect some hesitancy.
The Dow is up 13.4% as of April 12, and it's on pace for a gain of 47% on an annualized basis.
I doubt this will happen and expect market adjustments in the equities market along the way. The same goes for the S&P 500 and the other key market indices.
Small-caps in the equities market have also fallen off since the end of the first quarter.
At the back of the pack is the technology sector; but there has been a lack of strong leadership from any sector, including the semiconductor, Internet, and technology sectors, in general.
The following chart shows the recent movement of the three sectors (semiconductor, Internet, and technology) since March and their sideways direction.
Chart courtesy of www.StockCharts.com
Without any leadership in the equities market, the NASDAQ and technology stocks will continue to drift. However, there are some opportunities for speculators searching for contrarian situations.
The Internet sector is flat and lacking a clear direction.
In the stock chart below, the First Trust Dow Jones Internet Index (NYSEArca/FDN) fund shows the sideways channel that has been in place since late January.
Extrapolating on this data, I don't see any strong and clear signs of a breakout at the top channel line, but if you think longer-term, there are opportunities in the equities market.
Chart courtesy of www.StockCharts.com
The "Best of Breed" in the Internet sector … Read More
Why You Need to Follow the Pro Money
By George Leong for Investment Contrarians | Nov 27, 2012
I just took a look at my friend's Samsung "Galaxy III" smartphone and must admit that it looks pretty impressive compared to my "iPhone" by Apple Inc. (NASDAQ/APPL). However, the applications available for the iPhone are what will keep me from switching, at least for the time being.
Apple was trading at $705.07 on September 21, but the stock made a steady decline down to the $505.00 level on November 16 prior to rallying back to the current price of $578.00. Based on my stock analysis, there's profit-taking in Apple shares, which is not a surprise, given the enormous rip-up in the share price.
My stock analysis tells us that institutional ownership shows a 0.76% net sale of Apple stock over the last quarter-to-quarter, representing 4.8 million net shares sold by institutions, according to information from Thomson Financial.
In fact, my stock analysis shows that technology and growth stocks have been the focus of the market selling so far in 2012. The NASDAQ is down four percent as of Monday, versus a 0.07% advance by the S&P 500 and blue chips.
What I'm getting at is that growth stocks are being sold by institutions.
Following where the professional money is flowing helps gives us another tool to evaluate the stock markets and get a sense of what is happening.
Behind the concept of following the money of institutional investors is the belief that these experts are likely to understand the company's situation more than anyone outside of the executive management group. My stock analysis is that, by looking at the flow of money from institutional investors and monitoring what stocks … Read More
Why Stocks Are on the Edge of an Abyss
By George Leong for Investment Contrarians | Nov 19, 2012
The market is moving lower, and there's nothing that appears to be supporting it. The S&P 500 has lost nearly eight percent since its peak of 1,465 in September.
The fact that the S&P 500 failed to hold above 1,400 was not a surprise, based on my technical analysis. In May, the break at 1,400 was the S&P 500's fourth top above 1,400 since 2008.
Since the election, the market has edged lower in six of seven sessions due to heightened stock market risk.
On average, only about 37% of U.S.-listed stocks are trading above their respective 200-day moving averages (MAs), versus 61% a month ago. The short-term weakness is even more prevalent with about 19% of stocks above their respective 50-day MAs, versus 61% a month ago.
What happened to what were supposed to be the best six months of the year for investment gains?
Based on historical records, investing in the six months from November to May has produced the best returns for stocks versus the June to October period, according to the Stock Trader's Almanac.
So far, November has been horrible, with the key stock indices down more than four percent. But as I said when I previously discussed this pattern, things could be different this time around, given the abundant stock market risk, including the financial crisis in the eurozone, a stalling economy in China, tension in the Middle East, and the presidential election and upcoming fiscal cliff in the U.S.
We are seeing some selling capitulation in the market because of the abundant stock market risk and lack of any positive news that would encourage … Read More


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It's About Time Someone Wrote A Book About Us! Thanking The Monkey
Contributing Monkie V Ol Blak
Published on June 13, 2009
Filed Under Books, Pop Culture / Celebrities Tags animal rights, Book, Review, Vegan
Okay so the book really isn't about the G Living Monkies or even about me the Monkie Dark Overlord, but it should be. I am the darkest, greenest, juice guzzling monkie on the planet. I need a little praise too. I am just joking, I would guzzle green juice if anyone praised me or not. I am just that kind of Monkie.
The book (Thanking The Monkey) is by author Karen Dawn and is described as a book about Rethinking The Way We Treat Animals. No, it's not a scared straight kind of book, with night video images of lab animals with their brains attached to shock devices. I think its a lighter fun type of book, in the same vain as the Skinny Bitch Books by my friend Rory Freedman. Her books are still on the NYTimes Best Seller List, how cool is that! Now to be honest, I haven't seen the book yet, I just stumbled across a video on Youtube, which I posted below. In the video all the people I know are in the video and they even used my photo of Darrell Hanna with the rescued calves from Animal Acres.
Soon, I will go out and get a copy of the book and report back what I think of it. But until I get one, here is the official book description from the publisher and if you get a copy before me, post your thoughts below!
The animal rights movement has reached a tipping point. No longer a fringe extremist cause, it has become a social concern that leading members of society endorse and young people embrace. From Michael Vick's dog fighting scandal to the incredible success of the bestselling Skinny Bitch veggie diet book, animal rights issues have hit the headlines—and are being championed by students and senators, pop stars and producers, and actors and activists.
Don't you want to be part of the conversation? In Thanking the Monkey, Karen Dawn covers pets, fur, fashion, food, animal testing, activism, and more. But as the title playfully suggests, this isn't like any previous animal rights book. Thanking the Monkey is light on lectures meant to make you feel guilty if you're not a leather-eschewing vegan. It lets you have fun as you learn about Paul McCartney's love of lambs and why Prince won't wear wool. You'll meet Fall Out Boy's Andy Hurley and Pete Wentz—and their favorite traveling companion, Hemingway, Pete's dog. You'll read why Natalie Portman, Alicia Silverstone, and so many of those skinny but not bitchy actresses won't eat or wear animals. And you'll laugh over dozens of cartoons from Dan Piraro's Bizzaro to other animal-friendly comics.
This fun primer for a smart and socially committed generation delivers some serious surprises in the form of facts and figures about the treatment of animals. Yes, it will shock you with tales of primates still used in animal testing on nicotine or killed for oven cleaner. But it will also let you lighten up and laugh a little as we work out how to do a better job of thanking the monkey.


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So, where better than Las Vegas?!
{2007 at the Bellagio fountain}
I'm so excited because we'll be staying here...
We are so excited to visit Vegas again, but what else should we try to do?
Oh that is so so exciting, I just got back from Vegas last weekend and am seriously still recovering, haha!!! Blogging about it soon :)
OH FUN! So exciting!
& yes, I'm doing the Move it Memphis 5k! I will see you Saturday! So excited! :)
Ahh!! I'm so jealou!
So fun!!! Vegas is a day trip for us, but we're dying to go back before Baby B comes :)
You will have so much fun. There is a little restaurant in the Venician that is so cute, I can't recall the name but it's half in the hallway..so cute and delicious. You can go there after your gondola ride!
Good choice on Vegas! You can do without Mankini Max in KeyWest!
How fun, we are hoping to plan a trip to Vegas sometime this year or next looks amazing :-)
so fun. I love taking day trips up to Vegas. it always lends to a great adventure. fabulous post, love. thanks for sharing. if you get a sec, I'd love to hear what you think of my Shoemint photo shoot. xo
Ah! The Wynn is amazing and upscale and very classy! Great choice!!
You MUST eat at Battista's (http://www.battistaslasvegas.com/) one night for dinner!! It is seriously amazingly delicious and I would fly back out there just to eat a meal there again!! Y'all have fun! I'm so jealous!
oh you are going to have an absolute BLAST!!! i love me some vegas and i am so wanting to take jeff because he's never been...you two lovebirds are going to have a wonderful time!!!
Dustin and I have never been to Vegas but have been talking about making a trip. I can't wait to hear about all the fun things y'all do!
I'm SOOO jealous, it sounds like an amazing trip! I've never been to Vegas.
FUN!! I never thought I'd be a Vegas girl, but I've been to Las Vegas three times and LOVE IT!! The Beatles show is soooo neat!
I have always wanted to see that show. Y'all are going to have a great time.
Oh great choice!!! We went to Cirqs Le Reve a couple years ago in Vegas and it was one of the coolest things ever! I would love to see the Beatles show!
So fun! Gotta love a good time in Vegas!
Love Vegas...so many things to do there, so much food, and so much shopping! You will both have a blast! Love the Cirque shows. Haven't seen the Beatles one, but my sister did. Did see Ka at MGM and O at the Bellagio and LOVED them. Definitely make sure you take advantage of the breakfast buffet at the Wynn... at least it use to rock my socks:)
sounds like an amazing trip! I lived in Vegas for 5 years after college- I actually loved it! LOVE is such a great show-- one of my faaavs you are going to have such a blast! :) I am jealous and yes.. the shopping- is AMAZING!!
Sounds like a fun trip! Can't wait to hear all about it!
That'll be such a fun trip! Vegas is always so much fun!!! That show will be amazing!
I LOVE Vegas. And like you, I am not really a gambler. But the pools, and the shopping, and the FOOD, and the shows, and did I mention shopping! We are going in May for our first trip away from my baby. We decided to forego Christmas presents this year and plan this trip. I am so excited. We arent sure where we are staying yet but are looking at several places including the Wynn! Have FUN!
aww, i just got back from a WEEK in vegas on sunday (part for work, part for play :))
we had an amazing time- and i would recommend 100% going to mesa grille in caesar's palace- omg the food is to die for!! also, if you like sushi- blue ribbon sushi in the cosmo is amazing. Il Milano in the Forum shops is the BEST italian on the strip (in my opinion hehe). Also, for a cute romantic lunch- Mon Ami Gabi is a cute french restaurant with a terrace that overlooks the Bellagio Fountain. Their salmon salad was my lunch go to. If your hubby likes steak, Delmonica in the Palazzo is yummy, and Nine Steakhouse at the Palms is AMAZING- a really cool vibe and insanely delish food.
In terms of shows- I loved LOVE, but also thought Le Reve was insanely amazing, which is the Cirque show right at the Wynn! If you are really nice to your hubby- make he will take you to two shows :) a girl can dream- hehe!
Omg wow, sorry to ramble ;) Hope you guys have the best time!


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The rich emerald foliage of the Stevia plant has been traditionally cultivated by the Guarani Indians of Paraguay where it is known as "sweetleaf" and "sweet herb".
Stevia naturally contains diterpene glycosides, stevioside and rebaudioside, which contribute to its unique beneficial properties. Our Stevia Extract is vegetarian friendly, contains no sugar or artificial flavors and is an excellent natural addition for all kinds of foods and beverages.No Artificial Color, Flavor or Sweetener, No Preservatives, No Sugar, No Starch, No Milk, No Lactose, No Soy,No Gluten, No Wheat, No Yeast, No Fish. Sodium Free.


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Any Macca fans who also are fans of the Timelord himself?
I personally could see Paul taking a trip or two in the Tardis back to the days of Beatle mania.
How about the doctor meets the Beatles - wouldn't that be amazing!
Moderator: Mike
dpantz wrote:I hate to start a new thread...but...
Did Pink Floyd cover the theme or have anything to do with the theme song??? I can hear bits of it in "One Of these Days" from MEDDLE which was released in 1971.
Harrythebannister wrote:You've picked up on that as well!!
I love Dr Who if only for those sexy assistants! Anyone remember Jo?? I still have vivid dreams about her.....time for a cold shower!!
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text: @Max: Very true!! I had a wish to make an RC airplane (I am fond of the flying machines). I told this to many of my friends and colleagues who possess similar interest, but alas...I could not fulfill that wish and it remained a dream. In 2006 I bought one RC plane (having two electric motors, not a gas engine one) but I hardly flown it 5-6 times before I crashed it to an advertising hoarding. I changed my plan to make a copter so that it hangs in the air and does not have to attain speed as an airplane to fly (less chance of crashing :))...but again it remained a dream. I could not find a stable toy so far. But now I see a lots happening around it and engineers making this a serious hobby/work. That is good!! Hope to own one if I could...I am sure now that making this on my own would remain a dream...because I guess I was never as serious as these folks!! :)


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Society for Economics and EducationThe Society for Economics and Education (SEE) is a student organization affiliated with the Economics and Education Program in the Department of Education Policy and Social Analysis at Teachers College, Columbia University.
SEE's objective is to be the channel through which academic, social and professional networks are promoted among students and faculty members interested in the field of Economics and Education.
Visit us at: http://sites.google.com/site/economicsandedattc/


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Thanks Craig, appreciate it!How's weather in Houston? We're 2 miles from Point Pleasant Beach, NJ and it's getting nasty. No outdoor baking today!
It wouldn't surprise me if you got a little more rise if you are leaving it in bulk as is it would take longer for the mass too cool when you put it in the refrigerator. Notwithstanding, and you noted, the difference with small increases 2-3X aren't particularly meaningful. If you go straight to balls, I would not expect any difference.Fermentation creates some heat, so if you make a very large mass of dough and let it ferment, the accumulated heat can speed fermentation. There can be other effect as well. For example, it takes longer to ball more dough, as a result, it may sit out at a higher temperature for a longer time as you ball it.
The only procedural difference between my normal dough batch and my double batch is the quantity of ingredients. That is, I do everything Because if Roberto doubles his batch size, the same thing will happen with his dough.


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11th Annual
Wisconsin Underwater Archeology & Maritime History Conference
Saturday October, 10th 2015
10am - 4pm
Location: Neville Public Museum, Green Bay, Wisconsin
Address: 210 Museum Place, Green Bay, WI. www.nevillepublicmuseum.org
The 11th Annual Wisconsin Underwater Archeology and Maritime History Conference will once again bring together Great Lakes archeologists, maritime historians, sport divers, shipping buffs and hobyists for a full day of seminars on maritime history and underwater archeology in Wisconsin waters and beyond.
Previous Conferences have been held in Manitowoc and Milwaukee, WI.
The 2013 WUAA conference was held in Discovery World's beautiful Digital Theater. Discovery World, home of the S/V Denis Sullivan (Wisconsin's Flagship), is a premeir experimential museum with maritime and technology-based exhibits, including the Reiman Aquarium.
Learn More
Action Planning Meetings
Periodic Action Meetings - Selected Saturdays: 10:00 am - 1:00 pm - Centrally Located in State.
Annual Ghost Ships Festival - Great Lakes Shipwreck Research Foundation, Inc.
This annual event has been held for 12 years, currently at the Wyndham Hotel & Convention Center, Milwaukee, WI.
The Ghost Ships Festival is Wisconsin's largest trade show devoted to Scuba Diving and Great Lakes Maritime History. Exhibits, workshops, and presentations cover just about every aspect of Great Lakes maritime history and scuba diving. You can listen to and interact with leading dive industry professionals, extreme explorers, maritime historians, and Great Lakes authors!


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I love January with its energy centered in fresh starts, new goals and a re-charged inspired vision to grow the life of my dreams. This is the time of the year when many of us are setting a new course for our greatest expressions: spiritually, mentally and physically. One of the most popular practices of this time of the year is the New Years Resolution, when we set up a "game plan" for transforming everything from our body fat to our finances. For many of us, the zeal and excitement that we begin this month of rich possibility is all too often replaced with feelings and experiences of failure and "higher self" abandonment by the end of the month. Leaving us with the rest of the year with greater susceptibility to "yo-yo" fad dieting, infomercial exercise miracles, and "drive-thru" self care practices that leave us less satisfied and wanting more. Much of the resolution energy is dedicated to exercise, eating better, losing weight, and taking better care of ourselves in general. I have learned both personally and clinically that there are some powerful principles that can inspire us to transcend the empty laundry list of to do's and inspire us to truly have life breakthroughs!
First, set "whole goals"; goals can be seen as giving your dreams a "life line". Setting whole goals gives you an opportunity to set your life in the direction of greater meaning, fulfillment and satisfaction. Whole goals can have an "outer" experience such as "to lose 20 pounds of body fat", they are supported and fueled by an inner goal such as "reaching my goal of fat loss, I enjoy greater energy and vitality to give myself to the things that I love and value". The inner goal can be seen as giving the energy for fueling the outer goals success. Whole goals can offer continued inspiration and sustainability in the achievement of all of our goals.
To enjoy success with all of our lives goals and aspirations we need to become aware of and skillfully master the fine art of "but reduction". I am not referring to our behind, I am referring to our mind. With most changes, especially the more "charged" ones that center around our history with self care and love we may have a tendency to want to fall back into recycled thinking and worn out, limiting beliefs. When we attempt to make a break with an old habit or mind set such as embracing exercise as a daily ritual we can allow that big "but" of ours to stick out there and say something like" but, I never follow thru with my exercise goals". You see , that "but" can keep us from ever moving on with our lives, healing an old wound and hiding behind our "buts" can surely keep us living a small and uninspired life of excuses.
To help with overcoming those energy stealing buts in our lives you can leverage the much more powerful "law of exposure". You may notice that throughout your day that you are always being surrounded by things that either encourage a feeling of abundance or scarcity. The media, relationships and the various daily mirrors that we face can move our thinking and actions to fear based, small mindedness. However, you can choose to serve your mind and body all day inspiration with a simple reminder of your true self and your intended direction in life. This month dedicate a morning after you pray, exercise and eat a balanced breakfast to creating your life's "mission reminder" card. On an index card set about writing out your daily and life's plan and goals in the affirmative "all ready there" and accepted tense. In detail write down how your life works very well, the things you do, the people, places and abundance you are surrounded by, and the Divine vitality and love that you move with and express to the world. Now, you can use the "law of exposure" by reading your card aloud with enthusiasm and acceptance at least three times per day-I encourage you to read this with the belief and knowing that you are setting the tone and the course for your life!
Choosing to see this month as the beginning of a deeper, more committed resolve to evolve your body, mind and soul for this year, and for the rest of your life can help to heal and transcend a less than stellar history of broken commitments/resolutions. Inviting and embracing change to enable you to live your greatest life takes courage. The courage to over come the fears that often come along with change. Greater health, peace of mind and authentic happiness are ours when we dedicate our lives to stretching ourselves beyond our self limiting slumber zones and move to live each day better and more alive than the last, expressing our hearts vision and being on fire with love and purpose. Just as the word diet comes from the Greek diata meaning way of life, with these practices we set a life's direction for eating, moving, living and thinking well that indeed become a way of life-blessings on your journey!
Dr. James Rouse is a naturopathic physician with extensive credentials in the wellness field including post-doctorate work in acupuncture, Chinese medicine and transpersonal psychology. He is a member of the Human Touch Health and Wellness Council and enjoys the relaxing benefits of massage chairs.


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Wee Keng_Hor , February 27, 1997; 12:22 A.M.
I've been using this lens for almost half a year and as Philip had said, I've forgotten about the pain of the high price that I've paid for it.
This is an upgrade from my Tamron 70-300mm lens. I shot a roll of silde to compare the image quality of both lenses. At wide apeture, the L lens really stands out in image quality! However, as I stopped down the apeture to f8 and smaller, I can't really tell the difference when I looked at the slides from the lupe.
This lens is also huge and heavy and I find it difficult to control the focusing ring when my hand shifts from the zooming ring.
What I liked most about this lens is that it allows me to use wide apeture for minimun depth of field and fast shutter speed for handheld shots. Images are excellent even when wide open.However, sometimes the deth of field might be so shallow that it spoils the whole image.
Another advantage about this lens is that it screams out loud to others that I'm a pro! On several occassions, I might not be allowed to enter the scene to take photo had I not been carrying this lens.


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Here's how RW members rated this race in the past (465 votes).
In short: hell just keeps getting betterIn full: Back for my 4th hellrunner ! clear sky, sun shining what a difference to last years freezing conditions ! love this race it has everything and a bit more it is one of races i most look forward to.great course, great organisation, what i really like about this race is that the organisers actually listen to what the runners want, i remember a few years ago that on my race review i moaned that parking was a nightmare and how it was a free for all at the end to get out, the race organiser took the time to phone me and apologise and asked for my suggestions ( how often does that happen ) the following year a company was broght in to manage the parking.again me and many others have said on our race reviews that a naf cotton t-shirt was not good enough after surviving hell ! again they listened and this year we got a lovely technical t-shirt and a fantastic medal.well done to everyone involved with hellrunner i cant wait for hell again next year :)Date of review: December 5, 2011
In short: Excellent Fun!In full: My first ever race after getting in to running in a big way but was very worried that I would be crawling across the line in last place, there seemed to be a great mix of people. Atmosphere was very good and everyone seemed to be having a good time. Only real gripe is that people were walking on the hills so it created bottle necks and was hard to get by. I hear that other years had been tougher but this seemed to be tough enough, would definitely do it again and would welcome a tougher and colder race!! Getting clean from the mud was a BIG challenge. Date of review: November 30, 2011
In short: A fun and muddy day out!In full: I did this race last year in the sub-zero conditions and didn't enjoy it. However, with the sun out this year, more muddy sections in the first half (the tracks were frozen solid last year!), a much better lay-out to the start and finish areas and people generally in a much more convivial mood I really enjoyed this years event!It's still a tough race and if you don't enjoy getting VERY muddy then don't consider it, but it's a good place to start if you are considering other events of this nature. On the practical side the signage of the course was good but I had concerns again this year at the lack of first aid available, although I only saw one person in difficulty so hopefully there were no problems. As others have mentioned it took ages to get out of the car park and onto the road but traffic was being well controlled. Goody bag was pretty good and included a nice medal and technical tee. I will probably be back for more next year!Date of review: November 30, 2011
In short: 2010 was "The Hardest Ever" 'cos of the weather, 2011 was shorter and easier.In full: After last year, I suppose there wasn't the "surprise or shock factor", and as the weather was pleasant this time, there wasn't so much of a challenge. My Garmin measured it shorter too and the bog of doom was somewhat shallower. Bottlenecks were inevitable. Aside of this I will certainly rate the organisation and atmosphere as FANTASTIC. The marshals / cadets were full of support and the supporters were full of cheer. I decided to do it in a lime green mankini, to up my own personal challenge - it got plenty of reaction (and a few slaps! You know who you are). All I could hear behind me was "Oh God - I gota get past him".Parking was very good, however, getting away was slow. If we were to do it again, we'd bring a BBQ and do a cook up in the carpark whilst everybody else waits to leave. Perhaps we'll do Hell In The Middle for a change.The best thing was a quality medal and T-shirt at the end. Happy with the goodie bag as well. Thanks to everyone involved. I am still applying the chafing cream! Date of review: November 28, 2011
In short: this is a must In full: wow what a race, we got there sunday and it was high winds and rain , but soon to see the clear skies opened, parking was very muddy so 4x4 is a good idea, the bogs of doom were freezing and were like soup, they dont come till about 6 miles in , the hils are mental more like a crawl not a climb, sand dunes, its all there, busy bottle necks at places and a bit of queing for bogs but if you want a free run go upthe front great organization and a very good goodie bag , medal and tshirt and other bits, great getting out the carpark very organized, the marshalls tell a few white lies how far left but its all in the day i suppose, bring on next year.one slight moan the bacon and sausage rolls were disgusting sorry guys !Date of review: November 28, 2011
In short: A bit tamer than expected but still greatIn full: The big hills were grim but the rest was......fine. Not quite as hard core as I expected but great fun, a smashing atmosphere and great organisation. Could do with more girls loos but there were plenty of bushes and if Paula can do it then so can I. An inch of ice on the bog of doom and at least another foot of water would have been nice (they got it last year apparently)and perhaps slightly wider trails so that those that wanted to run the hills could rather than being caught behind walkers. Nice Brooks t-shirt and generous goody bag too. Will certainly do it again.Date of review: November 28, 2011
In short: Good Muddy FunIn full: Lures you into a false sense of security with a couple of miles of easy running at the start. Then the hills get progressively bigger all the way to the end, and the bogs and sand don't make it any easier!My first Hell Down South was far muddier and wetter than hell in the middle, but less hilly - you don't get the "free" miles at the start in hell in the middle. Apparently less muddy than other years, but still muddy enough, and I don't think the organisers can schedule rain. There are a few bottlenecks with people walking up some of the hills, but if you're fit enough to be running up the steep hills, you shouldn't be behind walkers by the time you get to them. It wasn't a problem for me. If you want a challenge and a laugh with mates, this is awesome!Date of review: November 28, 2011
In short: Hellrunner has gone soft, shorter, easier, more Helwalk than run.In full: good fun, but shorter than 10miles (disappointing seeing it's advertised as 11ish). Water levels in bogs are lower than previous years. Too many bottle necks with so many runners doing it, you have no option but to walk. Good one to do if you want to dip your toe into something different and is challenge but if you're looking for a tougher challenge look elsewhere. Can't fault the organisers all great. BUT Man Up Hellrunner... It's meant to be HELL! Date of review: November 27, 2011
In short: A great run but shorter and not as challenging as previous years. Worth doing though.Date of review: January 3, 2011
In short: Created the biggest smile to pain ratio I've had in a long time.Date of review: December 9, 2010
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This is a brand new event about improving the acceptability of wind into European power grids. View the brochure here .
This forum will walk delegates through:
- Dong Wind's views on the viability of offering ancillary services in its areas of operation in Europe
- Bord Gais's experiences of providing ancillary services to SONI and Eirgrid and a view of where regulations are heading
- Grid operators' requirements from wind developers - with TenneT TSO
- How will grid compliance and ancillary services shape the future of turbine and substation design and their control? Enercon and REservicES share their insights
- New findings from the USA: NREL's analysis of how wind providing active power control can improve the frequency response performance of the system
- The latest pilot projects and research about which ancillary services wind farms can offer, technical risks and the economics involved
- The different grid balancing/ancillary services wind farms can offer to Transmission System Operators (TSOs) and/or Distribution Network Operators (DNOs)
The technologies and estimated costs involved in offering capabilities such as frequency response, reactive power and voltage control, including:
- power electronics
- substation infrastructure
- turbine design
- automation and control systems
Visit our new Resource Hub , packed full of articles and reports on pertinent topics including the capabilities of Wind Generators, and how they can improve the integration of wind into power systems.
Key Speakers
Windpower Monthly Events


text: We were blown away by this blog full of tiny inspiration! With gorgeous photography and an incredible eye for design, the blogger behind Call of the Small makes us swoon over dollhouses. The homes are made with incredibly innovative DIY ideas and leave no detail undone. Tiny pets, designer fireplaces, swanky furniture and perfect accessories bring these spaces to life, like a page out of Elle Decor… except tiny! We guarantee you will find yourself wishing these spaces were real, or that you were small enough to live in them! We were super honored and excited to discover an incredibly mod space created with the WallPops by Jonathan Adler Santorini stripes as wallpaper. Spoiler alert: it's dreamy. Check out the feature here, and delight in some more of their work while you are there, these dollhouses are magnificent!


text: Ichiro Suzuki has been well-known throughout his entire MLB career as an excellent base-hitter. Mr. Ichiro Suzuki sports a career .329 average and in 10 major league seasons, has never finished a single-season batting below .303, while playing pretty much every day. In 2009, Ichiro played in 146 single-season games, which is his career-low in terms of total games played in a single-season. 146 games is still a lot of games to play in. He has played in at least 157 games out of a 162-game season in all other 9 years of his career aside from 2009. He has played in all 162 games in a season three times in his career and 161 games, also three times in his 10-year career. (more…)


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The utility-accessible alternating current (AC) external disconnect switch (EDS) for distributed generators, including photovoltaic (PV) systems, is a hardware feature that allows a utility's employees to manually disconnect a customer-owned generator from the electricity grid. Proponents of the EDS contend that it is necessary to keep utility line workers safe when they make repairs to the electric distribution system. Opponents assert it is a redundant feature that adds cost without providing tangible benefits.
In this paper, the authors examined the utility-accessible EDS debate in the context of utility-interactive PV systems for residential and small commercial installations. They also evaluated the rationale for EDS requirements. In particular, they were focusing on the safety, reliability, and cost implications of the EDS. They observed that in a number of states in which public utility commissions (PUCs) and utilities had gained experience with PV systems, they have decided to eliminate the EDS requirement. These decisions typically require that utility-interactive PV systems use inverters that meet relevant Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) standards.


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It would be interesting to know in quantitative terms what "in low volume production" means and even more intriguing what does "it has its place, it's its own thing." actually mean in the light of the following.
By late December 2013 both the 128Mb and the 1Gbit MCP had been quietly removed from the Micron product list on their web site. It was reported elsewhere* that Micron had indicated that their earlier generations of phase change memory were no longer available for new designs or for those wishing to evaluate the technology and the focus for PCM had moved to developing a new PCM process, in order to lower bit costs and power while at the same time improve performance. What then is the PCM device type that is in low volume production, why would low volume production be maintained for devices that are no longer available to potential customers and have the bit cost, power and performance limitations indicated? If PCM is not suitable for NAND or DRAM replacement, for what then is it suited?
Micron also have a paper a paper co-authored with Sony at ISSCC 2014 that reports a 16Gbit ReRAM based on a 27nm process, one wonders why that not get a mention along with STT/MRAM as one of the whittled down list of emerging memory types with future potential on which Micron are working?
* http://electronics360.globalspec.com/article/3931/exclusive-micron-drops-phase-change-memory-for-now


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Features & Benefits
Directional technology
provides improved low-frequency gain before
Prodigious output to cover
even the largest venues
Cardioid pattern control
minimizes reverberation
Fully weather protected
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may be flown or ground-stacked, and may also be combined with M3Ds
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the way to 30 Hz. A pair of 18-inch drivers is mounted at the
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QuickFly Rigging
M Series Options
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M3D-Sub IN USE
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The best-laid plansThursday, February 6th, 2014
When you travel GA—and VFR pilots know this better than anybody—flexibility is the name of the game.
The launch of 12 aircraft from Northern Virginia to the Bahamas by way of Florida (see Reporting Points, "Bahamas Bound") commenced the week of Jan. 26, with most airplanes set to depart Jan. 31 and a few making their cautious way down south earlier in the week to navigate around unseasonable snow- and ice storms in North and South Carolina and Georgia. (One airplane launched from Stearman Field in Kansas.)
On Friday, when conditions were severe clear (if exceptionally cold) in Virginia, all aircraft but one were under way. The pilot of a Cessna 182RG had postponed his departure because his wife was suffering from a fever.
Stopping for fuel and a BBQ lunch at Low Country Airport in South Carolina, we check the weather that lies between us and St. Lucie Airport in Fort Pierce. Some sizable chunks of green with some red and yellow mixed in are in our path, but moving off to the east. This weather doesn't pose much of a problem for the nine instrument-rated pilots. It's another story for the three who are flying VFR—and one of them is piloting a Light Sport aircraft.
Sure enough, when we land at Fort Pierce, we discover that all three VFR pilots are stranded at various points along the East Coast—and a fourth, instrument-rated pilot experienced radio failure at her fuel stop in Savannah, Georgia. What's more, the weather-stranded pilots are in different locations: One got as far as Fernandina Beach in Florida; one is on the ground in Savannah; the third—the LSA pilot—is in St. Simons, Georgia. The clouds and precipitation keeping them on the ground threatened to remain well into Feb. 1, when all aircraft were set to depart Fort Pierce for New Bight Airport (MYCB) on Cat Island.
What to do? Could anything be done?
If this were 12 separate airplanes just coincidentally headed to the Bahamas, probably nothing. But, that's not how things work when you're traveling with Aviation Adventures in Manassas. Owner Bob Hepp, who is coordinating this trip and toting me along in the flight school's 1964 Piper Twin Comanche, puts together a rescue mission: The group's sole Bonanza will carry two of the group's instrument-rated pilots to Fernandina Beach and Savannah, and they'll fly as PIC back to Fort Pierce. (Sadly, no such option is available for the aircraft with radio problems, nor the Light Sport aircraft.)
And that's what happened. More on our trip in a future post.


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Announcement - Meeting Announcement for H.R. 367, H.R. 2009, and H.R. 2879
The Committee on Rules will meet on Wednesday, July 31, 2013 at 3:00 PM in H-313 The Capitol on H.R. 367, the Regulations From the Executive in Need of Scrutiny Act of 2013, and H.R. 2009, Keep the IRS Off Your Health Care Act of 2013.


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Julie (Bittner) Hrdlicka, 54, of Fort Dodge passed away Thursday April 4, 2013 at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, MN.
Funeral services will be held 10:00 AM Wednesday in the chapel of the Laufersweiler-Sievers Funeral Home and 10:30 AM at Corpus Christi Church with Msgr. Kevin McCoy officiating the Mass of Christian Burial. Burial will be at Corpus Christi Cemetery. The Visitation will be 4:00 to 8:00 PM with a vigil at 7:30 Tuesday at the funeral home.
Julie is survived by her husband Jerry; daughter Megan; sister Kris and family, Tim, Shelby and Keaton Burns; aunt Marlene and husband, Art King; siblings Jodi, Kerry, Jamie, John and their families, and many important cousins, including Craig, Sue, Kelly, John, Mary, Shan, Shawn and their families. Julie was preceded in death by her special grandparents, John and Agnes Bittner; father, Jack Bittner, and an uncle Frank Bittner.
Julie Ann Bittner was born November 9, 1958 in Fort Dodge. She attended schools in Fort Dodge and graduated from F.D.S.H. As a child, Julie was fortunate to grow up working around horses at the Bittner Riding Academy. She also attended Iowa Central Community College where she received her associates degree. She spent the majority of her working years as a State Farm Licensed Insurance Representative.
As a 40 plus year patient of Mayo Clinic, Julie was a class act in bearing the cross of medical challenges she faced and was an inspiration to all who knew her. She was a firm believer in "Faith, Family and Friends".
Memorials may be left to the discretion of the family and will fund future medical research.


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Cleveland Browns Jim Brown Autographed Memorabilia and Collectibles
Jim Brown is widely regarded as one of the best sporting athletes of all-time and was even named the best football player ever by the Sporting News. Throughout his storied career, Brown spent nine season playing for the Cleveland Browns between 1957 and 1965. During his tenure as a member of the Browns, Jim Brown set a number of records as the Browns running back and earned a place among the league legends in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
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"The thing to remember is that, for affluentials, money has become the tool with which to buy non-material things—space, time, health, fitness, and meaningful experiences. "
Is President Obama Really Calling the Bizav Industry "Bad"?
Virtually every industry and profession in America enjoys the backing of an association and its lobbyists. And it doesn't matter whether those lobbyists represent funeral directors, textile manufacturers, dairy farmers or dental consultants–they're all banging on Congress' door with the same message: Our association's members play a vital role in this economy, create jobs, provide important products or services and deserve every possible tax break.
Sometimes, the fervor of these lobbying groups results in messages that sound a bit fanciful, such as when the National Air Transportation Association encouraged President Obama and Mitt Romney to focus in their October 16 debate on "the invaluable services that the general aviation community provides to the U.S. and global economy now and moving forward." Can you imagine Obama or Romney ever saying, "Before I answer that question about Afghanistan [or abortion or unemployment or whatever], let me just take a minute to highlight the invaluable services that the general aviation community provides"? Not gonna happen.
Still, I'm not surprised when business aviation associations issue statements like NATA's. Lobbying groups earn their keep by vigorously promoting the interests of the professions and industries they represent. That's their job.
Occasionally, though, their defenses extend beyond the fanciful to the slightly ridiculous. That's what I think happened after the first presidential debate of 2012, during which Obama suggested that we stop giving tax breaks to companies that are doing well. As he has in the past, the president cited oil companies and businesses that operate corporate jets as examples. Regarding the latter, his comment in full was as follows: "Why wouldn't we eliminate tax breaks for corporate jets? My attitude is if you got a corporate jet, you can probably afford to pay full freight, not get a special break for it."
Judging by the reaction of the National Business Aviation Association and other industry leaders, you'd think the president had called everyone in bizav a crook. Based solely on the two sentences quoted above, NBAA CEO Ed Bolen said the president had "disparaged" the industry, "completely mischaracterized" it, "vilified" it and "denigrated" it. JSSI chairman Lou Seno chimed in, calling Obama's comment an "attack on business aviation" by someone who "does not understand how business is conducted, both in the U.S. and around the world." Retired Cessna CEO Jack Pelton, meanwhile, said, "We cannot continue to be reflected by the president as an industry that is 'bad.'"
Granted, this is a complicated issue–more complicated than the prose that typically issues from either lobbyists or presidential candidates–and nobody's 100 percent right or wrong. On the one hand, it's probably time for the president to find new examples of tax breaks that ought to be eliminated. Ending breaks for business aircraft–an apparent reference to bonus depreciation, which was part of the stimulus package Obama himself signed–wouldn't exactly do much to deflate the national debt. And Obama does make inordinate mention of business aviation in this context, probably because research has shown "corporate jets" to be a phrase that conjures up the ultra-rich among undecided voters.
But Republicans have their catch phrases too, some of which also promote rather inaccurate images. And the reality about corporate jets is probably somewhere between what these undecided voters imagine and what the business jet industry wishes they would envision. As the editor who put together a special issue of Business Jet Traveler called "The Bizav Advantage," I fully understand that business jets are not used primarily to transport the wealthy from playground to playground; they're employed by lots of executives and middle managers to boost efficiency and productivity. But let's get real. Off the top of my head, I can't think of any poor people who own business jets–nor am I even aware of any struggling businesses that are out shopping for jets at the moment. The companies that are buying and operating aircraft in this or any other economy tend to be the ones that are doing better than most. In fact, studies cosponsored by the NBAA have repeatedly suggested exactly that. It's questionable how many of these companies would actually forgo jet purchases just because the tax break went away.
Moreover, as I noted in a blog post last year, there are other reasons why the elimination of bonus depreciation for business aircraft buyers might not do significant harm to the industry or the economy. As BJT tax columnist Jeff Wieand has noted, for example, bonus depreciation could ultimately result in higher aircraft prices. Also, the companies that manufacture many of the business jets sold in the U.S. are based outside our borders. As such, a tax break for purchase of their aircraft does little to help the American economy.
All that said, sensible counterarguments exist and I can understand why some people believe corporate jet buyers should receive a special depreciation deduction. That's a reasonable position. What's not reasonable, it seems to me, is suggesting that anyone who disagrees about this is denigrating, vilifying and disparaging business aviation. Advocating elimination of an industry's tax break is just not the same as calling that industry "bad."
I'm glad someone in our industry had enough courage to take this position. Every industry I have ever been associated with always screams "gore the other guy, not me". If the country is ever going to move forward we must all share some pain.
Politicians & aviation never mix well. Aviation business should be totally kept aside all such talks & ideas. I accept a politician as passenger max. Absolutely nothing they should decide about.
Janne / White Light Air AB
ps, I like the guy but he should not focus so much on Iran
Thank you for conveying a more rational reaction to Pres. Obama's reference to bizjets in the debates. I too make my living around the world of business aviation but the reactionary comments of our "alphabet groups" and individuals who really know better, were just irrational and a bit embarrassing.
I think you may have put any chances of repeating as the 2012 NBAA Gold Wing Award winner in serious jeopardy, but it was a very good article.
The language developed for the lobbying industry is meant to protect by polarizing, and so you have everyone on both sides of particular issues creating caricatures instead of being reasonable. I don't see it getting any better because it requires all sides agreeing to be cordial. Also, the general public still enjoys sound bites as opposed to using the reasoning faculties.
A TV add by a person seeking office in the next election has a section directed at wealthy people not paying their fair share and shows a business jet in the background.
Jeff- I commend you for having the courage to represent this rational and fair perspective. As another responder commented, it is "a bit embarrassing" that the GA industry takes such an exaggerated and vilifying perspective.
I wonder how many of the people commenting on this article are pilots. If you are a pilot, you are probably in the middle class. How does attacking and taxing the Biz Jet industry create jobs for pilots and FBOs? This President has repeatedly attacked our industry with assaults on job creating corporations owning jets and Jeff Burger wants to defend this position? Give me a break.
Hi Jeff,
I have enjoyed your publication for many years even though I fly a B737 for American Airlines, and as such am not immediately involved with bizav.
You comments about the over the top backlash to the President's note that if you are flying a corporate jet you should 'pay full freight' I think misses an important point.
The President himself is flying Air Force One to campaign events. This wide body airliner was purchased, equipped and fueled by taxpayers, which said taxpayers are so swamped by overspending that 40% of the jet fuel cost is borrowed. The DNC doesn't pay 10 cents to reimburse taxpayers for trips that cost hundreds of thousands of dollars... per segment!
The US Government, of which Barack Obama is Chief Executive, is borrowing $4 billion dollars a day - extra and above its existing refunding needs.
Someone needs to point out that the President's rhetoric that the rich need to pay their fair share would only cut the deficit from 40 cents of every dollar spent to maybe 38 cents, assuming the 30% millionaire tax promoted by Warren Buffet were to become law.
That's not even close to a viable solution. The 'pay full freight' argument is just a distraction so the President can avoid making tough choices from his own massive overspending.
Our country has a spending problem, not a revenue - 'you should just pay your fair share and stop complaining about a little extra pain' - problem.
Greece, with a similar high debt problem, is now in its 5th year of recession, and its economy is 30% smaller than in 2006.
Those who think the US is immune from a Greece experience may need to brush up on economic history. I suggest the writings of Ray Dalio, founder of Bridgewater Associates, as an excellent place to start.
Another good source would be Ken Rogoff, a Harvard professor with extensive research on debt vs. growth across the centuries of history.
We have a spending problem in Washington DC, not a 'millionaires need to pay their fair share' problem.
Thanks for listening.
Bill Zimmerman
Wow, Jeff; you make so many claims in this article that I disagreed with...I almost don't know where to begin. But seeing how others have posted responses on some points, I'll limit my opinion to the following quote:
"[The] companies that manufacture many of the business jets sold in the U.S. are based outside our borders. As such, a tax break for purchase of their aircraft does little to help the American economy."
Most economists agree that two-thirds of our economy is driven by consumer spending, which also affects taxation ("revenue" from the government's view). So to turn the economy around, it would make sense to promote consumer spending IN the United States. Your above-mentioned quote is akin to those who say: "Don't buy a Honda Accord, because Honda is a foreign company", even though the truth is Accords are built IN Alabama, Ohio, and Indiana. The workers who build Accords spend their money in the local community and that affects the US economy directly. Conversely, if business aircraft "tax breaks" (in reality, simply a beneficial depreciation schedule) are disallowed, then it's logical to expect fewer planes will be purchased and fewer factory workers paid (loss of jobs)
In 2003, I lost my aviation-related job. That significant life event taught me to empathize with others who lose their jobs.
I don't live in Wichita, but I sure feel for the many people who lost jobs subsequent to the president's very comments (which you defend). Let's hope your article isn't read by those people...
If this were an isolated instance, Jeff, I'd agree with you wholeheartedly. But it's not. It's part of a pattern as noted by others above, reflecting a consistant effort position business aviation as symbolic of the "1%" who, according to the President's rhetoric, fail to pay thier "fair share" of the taxes.
I was surprised at his choice words - this was, I believe, the first time he called them "corporate" rather than "private" jets since the campaign began.
His choice of descriptors is based on research condcuted by his strategists to determine which words would be most evocative for voters, and cause them to favor the President over whoever became the Republican nominee.
They tested "Private jet" vs. "Corporate Jet," and the former won hands down.
He believes, based on market research, that referring negatively to "private jets" will help motiviate his base and the undecided to vote for him.
Frankly, it's just mart marketing.
No, the trade associations and JSSI did not over react - they simply called him on yet another needless attack on our industry, demonize us simply to gain votes - no matter what the cost to the 1.2 million who live and work in general aviation.
Only in America will a President that sends the nation broke, divide the country and destroy the economy and moral fabric of this great nation will have a chance of re elected.
We your friends from Australia, looking at the USA as a light house of the world, your President has destroyed the Office which he represent, created a class war and actively degrade the USA...not to mention his apology tour and meeting in Saudi, the Begazi murders/cover up and his disrespect to Israel (YOUR best loyal friend in the world).
Jeff - you represent business jet...you allowed your personal views to over come reality...you should look for another job.
I regret renewing my subscription just last week...through I own a few planes for BUSINESS use and pleasure.
A Hyster
Sydney Australia
Jeff, you have totally missed the point of the president's offhanded remark. And so did the alphabet lobbying groups. Obama knows (or should know) that eliminating the bonus depreciation will make absolutely no difference in his WAY over the top budget deficit. He was merely tapping into the mindset of ignorant voters who think "the rich aircraft owners" are the source of the nation's economic woes and, therefore, they should vote for him rather than those nasty wealthy people. It's simply that he was pandering to gain the votes of ignorant people. The alternative to the alphabet groups' response should have been to calmy point out how ignorant and irresponsible the president's remark was rather than crying out about an irrelevant issue.
In the mean time they keep spending and spending. When are we going to hold the politicians feet to the fire. It is not a tax issue. It is a spending issue. The politicians can't get off the subject of taxing something or some group for more than 30 seconds. If they talk about spending cuts, it is something over a 10 year period, (which means it will never happen). Then they are right back to talking about raising taxes on some group. What part of "cut spending" don't they understand
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Thanks to everyone who came out to enjoy the perfect weather and great trails at the Milford Challenge yesterday! Hope that everyone had the opportunity to discover (or rediscover) how fortunate we are to have so many trails just a bike ride away.
A huge thanks to Bill Hermann for organizing this event each year, to Mike Flack for the T-Shirts, to Dave Cox for the maps and graphics, to the registration volunteers, and last but not least our Trail Coordinators for all the hours they invested polishing the trails for this weekend.
See you next year!