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Get tips on using your microwave to disinfect household items. Learn why spray insulation may be just the right thing for sealing small gaps. How to keep your gutters flowing and your house dry. Learn how to pick the right staple for your project.
Plus get answers to your home improvement questions about, painting brick, resurfacing kitchen countertops, flaking foundations, heating options, removing asbestos shingles, cracked tub/shower enclosure, leveling a foundation.
TOM: Coast to coast and floorboards to shingles, this is The Money Pit Home Improvement Radio Show on air and online at MoneyPit.com. I'm Tom Kraeutler.
LESLIE: And I'm Leslie Segrete.
TOM: Pick up the phone, give us a call right now with your home improvement project, your do-it-yourself dilemma. The number is 888-MONEY-PIT, 888-666-3974.
The temperatures are dropping; the leaves will be coming down very shortly if they haven't started yet in your neck of the wood. It is virtually officially fall all across the country by virtue of the temperatures and the energy bills that are going to start to go up. So, why not give us a call about just that?
There's got to be a cool-weather project on your to-do list. Maybe you want to figure out some ways to cut back on those energy bills. Maybe you want to think about some projects you want to get done before the snow hits. Whatever's on your to-do list, why don't you put it on our to-do list by picking up the phone and calling us right now at 888-MONEY-PIT?
We've got some great tips coming up this hour, including this one: are you using your microwave only to heat up last night's leftovers? If so, you might be underusing a pretty versatile kitchen appliance. We're going to have some tips on how you can use that microwave for things like disinfecting cutting boards and sponges, in just a few minutes.
LESLIE: And also ahead, we're going to have some tips on a tool that can be used to repair screens, install insulation and even attach trim and molding to your walls. It's a staple gun but it'll only do all of those things if you choose the right staples. So we're going to help you figure it all out, in just a bit.
TOM: Plus, this is the perfect time of year to give your home a onceover to see how well it's insulated. You know, the right amount of insulation can cut those heating bills and keep you feeling cozy and warm all season long. Now, if you want to do both those things – cut heating bills and cut the drafts – there is only one type of insulation that will do both. And we're going to talk to an expert about just that, in just a bit.
LESLIE: And this hour, we're giving away the Indulge Contemporary Hot Water Dispenser from InSinkErator. And it's a great way to save water because there's no waiting for hot water. And you can use it to make coffee, tea or even warming up a baby bottle.
TOM: So indulge yourself right now with the answer to your home improvement question. Call us right now at 888-666-3974. If you are the caller who – that we draw out of The Money Pit hard hat at the end of this hour, we'll send you that Indulge Contemporary Hot Water Dispenser from InSinkErator. What a fun – that's one of those appliances that once you have one, you always want to have one.
LESLIE: Yeah.
TOM: It's just so darn convenient to not have to put the teapot on in the morning. Just basically open the faucet and instantly you've got hot water for tea or for coffee or whatever else you need it for.
LESLIE: Robert in Illinois is on the line and looking to paint a brick home. Tell us what's going on and why you want to do that.
ROBERT: Just curious about it. I didn't know if I was going to pull the trigger on something like that or not, because I'm very ignorant about it.
TOM: Well, it's a big decision, Robert, because you know what comes after paint?
LESLIE: And it's one you can never go back to.
ROBERT: Yeah, it is.
TOM: Repaint.
ROBERT: Repaint, yes. Yes.
TOM: So …
ROBERT: And again, I was looking for some more advice. There's a coating outfit here where I'm at; I'm in East Central Illinois. The company is called Rhino Coat or something. I think it's a ceramic-based paint.
TOM: Yeah, don't do it.
TOM: Don't do it.
LESLIE: But why do you want to paint the brick? Was it previously painted and it has a shadowing effect or you just don't like …?
ROBERT: No, no. No. No. No, it's just – we bought the home. It's very well-built and we're – tastes are changing and we're considering moving or we're going to stay. And I think we were just considering the idea of painting. And I've seen other places that were painted and they turned out very nice, you know?
TOM: Right.
ROBERT: I guess I'm not much – I don't mind working.
TOM: Well but – yeah but it's a big commitment and you will have to repaint it every seven years. So I would tell you that there's really no good reason to paint brick.
ROBERT: Yeah. OK.
TOM: If you don't like the look, you can paint all the trim. You can use beautiful shutters, you can use planters.
LESLIE: Add shutters, planter boxes.
TOM: Right.
ROBERT: Right.
TOM: Look for other ways to decorate around it.
LESLIE: I personally would not paint brick, especially if you're considering selling at some point, because a brick home is a standout feature to a buyer. People are looking for mason homes, masonry products that are going to stand up and really look fantastic. And a brick home is a big selling point.
ROBERT: Right.
LESLIE: And once you put paint on a brick home, it never comes off; you're going to have to sandblast it and even then, it's going to get a shadowing.
TOM: And then you damage the brick.
LESLIE: And it's damage. And say you were to paint it yourself, you're going to take a gallon of paint, put it on that brick and it's going to get sucked into the brick.
ROBERT: Sure.
LESLIE: And then you're going to put another gallon and another and another.
ROBERT: Right. Right.
LESLIE: I wouldn't do it.
ROBERT: Nope. I appreciate it. I didn't know – I was going to pull the trigger on it like tomorrow. I was just kicking around the idea and I wanted – I just stumbled on your show, I think it was last week or so, and this is an idea that just floated in the back of my mind but it was never going to be in the forefront. But I was just – I figured as much. Yours is the same advice I'm getting – I've gotten from others, so …
TOM: Alright. Well, we're happy to keep it in the back of your mind. Far back.
ROBERT: Yeah, you – no, no, no, no. It'll stay there.
TOM: Alright, Robert. Well, good luck with that project and remember, there's a lot of other ways to change the look of the outside of the house besides painting that brick.
LESLIE: Nancy in Oregon is on the line with a kitchen-counter question. How can we help you?
NANCY: Yes. Thank you so much. What I'm calling about is an overlay that I've seen advertised of granite over Formica. We have a very tight, sturdy, Formica countertop in the kitchen and I'm wondering whether this is a practical solution or not.
TOM: Hmm. A granite overlay over Formica? I'm not really familiar with this.
LESLIE: Are they presenting it as tiles or is it an additional layer of laminate, that looks like granite, that's placed over?
NANCY: As I understand it, it is granite – full granite – except that they can use the base instead of starting, literally, from scratch, as I understand. Now, I haven't had the man out; I've just seen it advertised but …
TOM: OK. Well, you know what doesn't make sense to me with this? Granite cannot have any flex in it whatsoever and laminate tops, by their very design, are fairly flexible. So any type of granite veneer, if that's what this is, it seems may not stand up well. So, I think that we would need more information to feel very comfortable recommending that. But I can tell you, just based on the description, it doesn't sound like it makes a lot of sense.
And countertops are not so complicated to replace that it really makes any sense doing any kind of a laminate on top of that or a second layer on top of that. If you want a new countertop, get a new countertop. You don't take a countertop and build more on top of it.
NANCY: I see. Well, I thought it might be sturdier and be less costly and so you've answered my question. I guess it's not such a great idea.
TOM: OK. Nancy, thanks so much for calling us at 888-MONEY-PIT.
NANCY: Well, thanks for your professional advice on this.
LESLIE: You are tuned to The Money Pit Home Improvement Radio Show on air and online at MoneyPit.com. Well, two short weeks left to summer at this point, so if you've got some home improvement projects burning up your to-do list, give us a call before the cool air sets in and those tools go to rest for the winter season. We're here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 888-MONEY-PIT.
Still ahead, is your microwave being underused? If you're only using it to heat food, probably so. There are many ways a microwave can help around the house, including things that you can do like sanitizing cutting boards and even sponges. We're going to share a few of those tricks of the trade, next.
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ANNOUNCER: The Money Pit is brought to you by InSinkErator, instant hot or hot/cool-water dispensers. Delivering 200-degree hot or cool filtered water in an instant, at the touch of a lever right at the kitchen sink. Perfect for homeowners looking to save time in the kitchen. For more information, please visit www.InSinkErator.com.
TOM: Making good homes better, welcome back to The Money Pit Home Improvement Radio Show on air and online at MoneyPit.com. I'm Tom Kraeutler.
LESLIE: And I'm Leslie Segrete.
TOM: Hey, how would you like to have 200-degree water come right out of your sink instantly? Well, imagine making coffee, cooking pasta with no boiling. One lucky caller who makes it on the air with us this hour will be able to do just that, because we are giving away an Indulge Contemporary Dispenser from InSinkErator. It provides hot or cool, filtered water with just the touch of a lever. Going to go out to one caller we pick at random from those who call us this hour with their question at 888-MONEY-PIT.
LESLIE: Alright. Pick up the phone and give us a call. We'd love to give you a hand with all of your home improvement projects.
Well, it's time now for this week's Fresh Idea, which is presented by Citrus Magic. If you're only using your microwave just to heat up your leftovers, then you are missing out on a ton of different uses, let's say, for that microwave. Did you know that you can disinfect your kitchen sponge and even get rid of that funky sponge smell with your microwave?
First of all, it's really easy. All you want to do is soak the sponge in water and vinegar – just a good mix, maybe 50/50 – and then stick it in the microwave for a minute. You can also do the same with a cutting board. What you want to do with a cutting board is rub a little lemon on it, then heat it for a minute and bye-bye last night's raw chicken germs.
TOM: And if you've ever found that your honey jar can be a crystallized, solid mess, you can zap that back to life on medium power in about 30 seconds. You can also cut grilling time for potatoes or bell peppers or anything else that you want to put on the grill by sticking them in the micro for a minute or two.
And remember, though, to use oven mitts when removing these things from the microwave so that you avoid a nasty burn.
LESLIE: Mm-hmm. Especially the sponges; they are scorching hot.
TOM: They get super, super hot. And that is this week's Fresh Idea, which is presented by Citrus Magic. To keep the rest of your home smelling fresh, try Citrus Magic Natural Odor Absorbing Solid Air Freshener. It's all-natural but still works very well to remove even the toughest odors from your home. And one solid air freshener can absorb odors for weeks.
Visit CitrusMagic.com for more info on this and other great, all-natural products.
LESLIE: Michael in Pennsylvania needs some help painting a basement. Tell us what's worked and what hasn't.
MICHAEL: So far, it's a neighbor of mine; it's his basement. And I went in and I looked at it and I've never seen paint kind of like disintegrate right off the wall: I mean just a fine, powdery mist. And I do know that he's had some moisture problems.
TOM: Yep.
MICHAEL: And he had painted it, I guess, five years ago and I asked him if he had prepped it or sanded it or primed it or anything and he said no. So I don't know if that's the problem or not and I was – he was asking me what could he do to remedy that problem.
TOM: Yeah, you've got a water problem; that's your problem. If the walls – if the paint's not sticking to the walls, the walls are wet. And it may not be obvious to you but that's most likely what's happening.
MICHAEL: OK. Is there any way to – I know he had a dehumidifier in the basement. That was …
TOM: Oh, well, that further confirms our suspicion, right, Leslie?
LESLIE: Oh, completely. If the basement is moist and the walls are moist, then nothing is going to stick. And really, the best way to keep a basement dry is yes, to use a dehumidifier. But look at what's going on with the water and the drainage and the moisture on the outside of the house.
And that generally – wet or moist basements usually mean you've got clogged gutters, clogged downspouts or when the rain comes through those downspouts, it's being deposited right next to the foundation wall. So you really want to make sure that you're keeping your basement dry, that those gutters and downspouts are clean, that where the water comes out of those downspouts is 3 feet from your foundation wall or more, that the soil around the perimeter of your home is sloping away from the house. And that will keep the moisture down in the basement and then you can go ahead and prime, prime, prime and then paint.
MICHAEL: So, at this point, you wouldn't suggest doing anything as far as putting paint or at least primer on the walls at all?
TOM: No, I would get the moisture problem under control and then you can peel off the loose paint and then painting with a damp-proofing paint will be your next step after that, OK, Michael?
TOM: Well, good luck with that project. Thanks so much for calling us at 888-MONEY-PIT.
MICHAEL: Alright. Thank you.
LESLIE: Now we've got Darlene in Oregon on the line who's dealing with a heat pump and looking to get more energy-efficient. Tell us what's going on.
DARLENE: In the wintertime, my bill gets quite high trying to keep warm. And I have one of those small, little heaters. I think they run on oil; it's enclosed. And I put that in my bathroom to heat up the bathroom before my shower in the morning. And I was wondering if maybe – a couple of those only cost about $50. Maybe put one in the living room and one in the bedroom, if that would be more economical than running a heat pump.
TOM: Well, the thing about the heat pump is that you have to understand how to run it. And in Oregon, it's firmly – just say that it's really not an appropriate …
LESLIE: It's really cold.
DARLENE: Yes, it does get very cold.
TOM: Yeah, it's not an appropriate technology. But you can reduce your expense on it if you kind of set it and forget it, like the old commercials used to say for Ronco, you know?
LESLIE: For making chicken.
TOM: Yeah. Set it and forget it. In other words, set the thermostat, walk away. With a heat pump, if you bounce the thermostat up and down, then what happens is you force the electric-resistance heater to come on and that costs about twice as much or more to run than the heat-pump system. Because every heat pump has electric resistance built into the back of it.
And as long as the temperature – the difference between the temperature that it's set at and the temperature that the room is is 2 degrees, the heat pump is going to run. When it becomes 3 or 4 degrees, the resistance heater comes on and that's what really drives the cost up.
In terms of these electric radiators, that is another form – I mean these oil radiators. It is another form of electric heat. Will that be cheaper? You know, maybe because you're only heating on a room-by-room basis. But it may not be because it's running on electricity. You just basically have electric coils inside that oil heater.
DARLENE: Oh, I see.
TOM: One thing that you might want to think about is a type of heater called SUNHEAT, which has a blower built into it. We have one cold room in our house. We use the SUNHEAT there; it does a pretty good job of keeping that one room warm. It's also electric but because it's got a blower, it really helps it along.
LESLIE: It sort of helps to spread that heat around.
TOM: And it's very quiet and it's got a beautiful wood cabinet. But it's more expensive; I think it's about $350.
DARLENE: Yeah, because that might be the cheaper way to go then.
LESLIE: But I would use that sort of in partnership with your heat pump set correctly, not one over the other.
TOM: But just – right, set correctly. Yeah.
DARLENE: Oh, OK. Oh, I see. Alright. Now I understand.
DARLENE: But you seem to think if I would just let that – just set my heat pump and just leave it there …
TOM: Right. Whatever temperature makes you comfortable, set it and leave it there. That's right. Don't move it up, don't move it down like, "Oh, I'm cold. Let me move it up."
DARLENE: Yeah.
TOM: Because when you do that, your resistance heat comes on and the reason it feels warm right away is because you have electric-resistance heat now that's coming on and heating up the air very quickly.
DARLENE: I see. I see.
TOM: So I would set it and forget it and then if you need supplemental heat, use the space heaters.
DARLENE: Yeah. OK, fine. I really do appreciate your time and effort. You guys got a good show; I like it.
LESLIE: Jason in Kentucky is on the line with a shingle question. What can we do for you?
JASON: I got a house in Kentucky and it's a pretty old house but it's got those asbestos shingles on it and I'd like to know what the cost would be to remove those shingles. I've heard it was kind of expensive but I'm not really sure on it.
TOM: Well, first of all, the shingles are going to be contained – asbestos shingles are where it has asbestos contained in a cement binder. So it's not very easy for that asbestos to be released to the air.
LESLIE: Unless you completely shatter them and crumble them.
TOM: Right. Now, in most jurisdictions, removal is not regulated but disposal is. So that means that anybody can really take them off the house but they have to be disposed of properly.
So, what kind of siding are you thinking about putting on, Jason?
JASON: I was wanting to put that vinyl siding on there and like you said, I know that you can't really nail that stuff on there because once you crack it, it's airborne and you can't do that.
TOM: Well, that's true and a lot of siding companies will do that: they'll nail right through that stuff. And I always think that's a very bad practice, so I would encourage you to take it off. I don't think it should be terribly expensive. It's all outside, it's held inside of a cement binder. If you're concerned about dust, sometimes you can wet it down; that will cut back on that. Wear the appropriate respiratory protection.
But you can get that off and then just have it properly disposed of and then you'll be able to put the new vinyl right onto the sheathing.
LESLIE: And Tom, when you've removed this before, your trick was to sort of tap the nail completely through the shingle so that it …?
TOM: Well, that was only if I was pulling one shingle off, like to do a repair.
LESLIE: Not all of them.
TOM: If you're pulling them all off, you're going to use a big, flat-ended sort of pry bar and lift them all off. But you'll find that they come off pretty easy.
This is The Money Pit Home Improvement Radio Show. Up next, if your gutters aren't flowing correctly, you could have some big problems on your hands. So we're going to tell you the three steps that you need to know to be sure to keep those gutters clean, your basement dry and your foundation secure, after this.
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ANNOUNCER: The Money Pit is brought to you by the HydroRight Drop-In Dual Flush Converter, proud sponsor of Water Conservation 2011. The HydroRight easily converts your toilet into a water- and money-saving dual-flush toilet. Push the quick-flush setting for liquids or the full-flush for more. Look for the HydroRight at The Home Depot and other fine retailers or visit SaveMyToilet.com.
TOM: Where home solutions live, this is The Money Pit Home Improvement Radio Show. I'm Tom Kraeutler.
LESLIE: And I'm Leslie Segrete.
TOM: Want to make sure the products you use in your home are green? Check out our top picks for eco-friendly products. Just Google "money pit green product guide" and you'll learn about all the new green products that we have reviewed.
LESLIE: Robert in Indiana is on the line. How can we help you today?
ROBERT: Hey. Thanks for taking my call. Got a home built in the mid-70s. It has a one-piece, fiberglass tub/shower unit in one of the bathrooms. It's developed a crack in the – right in the stress point in the middle.
TOM: Right.
ROBERT: Any way of repairing this? It appears that the gentleman that built this house must have put the tub in and then built the bathroom around it because there's no – without tearing this up into small pieces, there's no way I can get it out of the bathroom.
TOM: Yeah. Yeah. You can head on over to the local auto-repair/auto-parts store and you can pick up some Bondo.
ROBERT: Yeah. Right.
TOM: And you could repair it with that or with a fiberglass patch kit. I mean basically, you can do a fiberglass repair to this with resin and then fiberglass material and more resin on top of that.
Now, the thing is, it's not going to look totally like the old one did; it'll be very obvious that there's a patch. But I've actually repaired fiberglass shower pans using more fiberglass material and it does a good job; it's kind of like repairing a boat.
ROBERT: I appreciate that a lot. I'll try that before I tear the wall out in the bathroom, anyhow.
TOM: There you go. You've got nothing to lose, right?
ROBERT: No, nothing to lose.
TOM: Alright, Robert. Thanks so much for calling us at 888-MONEY-PIT.
Yeah, you can repair fiberglass shower pans and fiberglass tubs with Bondo and/or fiberglass repair material. It does a really good job.
LESLIE: Well, rain gutters aren't a very exciting or even attractive part of a home and you hardly notice them until something goes wrong.
TOM: Ah, yes. But then it's the wrong kind of excitement. You know, if your gutters become damaged, you need to make repairs quickly to avoid further and long-lasting damage deep inside the house. Here to tell us exactly how to do that is This Old House general contractor, Tom Silva.
Welcome, Tommy.
TOM SILVA: Well, thank you. It's nice to be here.
TOM: It's great to see you again.
I think most people think that gutters are just there to keep water from running off the roof and onto your head. But they actually have a pretty important structural role, as well, don't they?
TOM SILVA: They have a very important structural role, not only to the sidewall of the house but to the foundation or the basement of the house, letting water go into the basement. And then you've got to think about splash-back off of a roof that would need a gutter. The splashing on the ground, the water coming up, it's going to rot the seal in the first couple of courses of your siding. So gutters are very, very important.
TOM: There's a lot of things that could go wrong if you don't have a functioning gutter system.
LESLIE: Now, what's the first step to make sure that your gutter system is effective?
TOM SILVA: Well, I would say the first step is to make sure that the gutters are pitched right, make sure that the water goes into the downspout and the downspout leads away from your house so it doesn't settle the water right there at the foundation.
TOM: And that's a great point because I tell you, time and time again, I've seen builders and even gutter contractors install those downspouts so they drop a grand total of about 6 inches to a foot away from the house. And that dumps a lot of water.
LESLIE: Mm-hmm. Oh and here's your splash guard. Good, done.
TOM: Exactly.
TOM SILVA: Exactly, exactly.
TOM: Yeah. And that dumps all that water right there were it can go right down to the basement or at least wash out the soil right in the [backfield zone] (ph).
TOM SILVA: It can wash out the soil, it can create a trough and collect there, run down. And you can actually get water in the basement through a crack in the foundation.
LESLIE: Mm-hmm. I mean we've had that happen in my own home. A downspout was clogged and it caused a major leak in the basement, completely on the opposite side of the house from that clogged downspout. But that was the culprit that caused a huge mess.
TOM: Right.
TOM SILVA: Absolutely.
TOM: But the thing is they're pretty easy to fix. So any tricks of the trade for taking care of those sags, for example?
TOM SILVA: Well, yeah. Let's say you have an aluminum gutter that's sagged in the middle and now that gutter may be put up with spikes and ferrules. Now, a spike is a long spike that goes through the gutter and into the substrate, like a …
TOM: It's like a super-long nail, right?
TOM SILVA: Exactly.
TOM SILVA: And in the middle of that, in between the gutter, the spike goes through the face of the gutter through a ferrule. And then that ferrule keeps the gutter from pushing in if you ever leaned a ladder against it. So it's …
TOM: So a ferrule is essentially like a thin, aluminum pipe.
TOM SILVA: It's a big spacer, exactly.
TOM: Got it, got it.
TOM SILVA: Yep, yep.
TOM: OK. So the spikes pull out. What do we replace them with? More spikes?
TOM SILVA: No. Because the spike is pulled out; it's done its time. They have – basically have a long screw – a gutter screw – that will screw into that rafter tail and it won't pull up.
LESLIE: Now, what about if you're dealing with a gutter system that maybe has holes or the joinery where the two pieces meet, there's a leak there? How do you fix that?
TOM SILVA: Well, they have actually sealants that you can put in there. But before you put the sealant in there, you've got to make sure the gutter is really clean and dry. When you put the sealant in there, you want to put a good amount in there and you want to feather it out, especially around the outlet. You don't want to create a dam; you want the water to fall right into that hole.
TOM: Good point. Now, Tommy, we shouldn't really talk about fixing damaged gutters without talking about our favorite season of the year: fall. And they call it "fall" for a very good reason. What's your favorite gutter guard or gutter cover to keep those leaves out?
TOM SILVA: Oh, boy. There's a lot of them out there. There's a mesh that you can put right in the gutter now and leaves fall on it and they blow away. There's a type of gutter product that you can slide up underneath the second course of shingles and it'll act like a lip that the rain will collect to that, surface tension will pull the water in but the debris won't go in. And they actually have one-piece gutters that basically have a helmet on the top. Water surface tension brings it in but there's just a little slit across the front.
TOM: All built into one.
TOM SILVA: All built into one.
TOM: Now, that makes a lot of sense because let's face it, there's no need to buy two separate products here. We have the technology; we should be able to extrude a gutter that has the gutter protector right built into it.
TOM SILVA: All in one, yeah.
TOM: Great advice. Tom Silva from TV's This Old House, thanks so much for stopping by The Money Pit.
TOM SILVA: It's a pleasure being here.
TOM: For more tips just like that, you can visit ThisOldHouse.com.
LESLIE: And you can learn a lot more by watching Tommy and the entire This Old House team on This Old House and Ask This Old House on your local PBS station.
TOM: And Ask This Old House is brought to you by the National Association of Realtors.
Coming up next on The Money Pit, your staple gun is an important tool for any do-it-yourselfer but you know how to pick the right staple for the job? There are many, many to choose from and we will sort it all out, after this.
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ANNOUNCER: The Money Pit is brought to you by Generac, makers of the number one-selling Guardian Series Home Standby Generators. Now introducing a full line of consumer and professional power washers. Whether you need to power it, clean it or protect it, Generac can help. Visit Generac.com to learn more.
TOM: Making good homes better, this is The Money Pit Home Improvement Radio Show. I'm Tom Kraeutler.
LESLIE: And I'm Leslie Segrete.
TOM: Hey, give us a call right now with your home improvement question, your do-it-yourself dilemma. If you do, we may just choose your name from The Money Pit hard hat and send you the great prize we're giving away this hour. It's the InSinkErator Indulge Contemporary Water Dispenser.
This is a very cool, little appliance that hooks up to your sink and it can instantly dish out either hot or cool water. And by the way, that hot water? It's up to 200 degrees hot. And that's hot enough to make your tea or your coffee. It's all filtered so it's going to taste great, too. It's going to go to one caller who gets on the air with us this hour with their home improvement question. The number, again, is 888-666-3974.
LESLIE: Alright. Pick up the phone and give us a call. We'd love to give you a hand with your home improvement projects.
And maybe this time of year, you're trying to wrap up those outdoor projects, get everything sort of buttoned-up for the cooler weather and then of course, the winter season. But maybe you're starting to think about: "what tools do I kind of need to keep in the house and what am I going to be working with?"
And you've probably, in going through all of your things around your tool drawer and in your work shed, come across a staple gun. And a staple gun really is a very, very valuable tool for a ton of different projects. But getting the right kind of staple for the job that you are about to tackle or work on is the key.
Now, the experts at Arrow Fastener – who manufacture the bestselling T50 Staple Gun, by the way – say that there are six different sizes of staples for that gun alone. So I can understand why it's kind of confusing as to which one you should grab for what project. So to figure out what size staple you're going to need, what you need to do is determine the materials that you'll be using for your project.
For example, if you're reupholstering in maybe a thick velvet, you want to choose a longer-legged staple. Now, I just worked on reupholstering a chair cushion and the chair that I was working with was made of oak, which is a super-hard wood. I used the 3/8-inch staple because that would really give me the best hold, considering the type of fabric and the wood I was working with. So you want to look at these materials and then make your staple decision.
TOM: Well, that's right. And if you want to always make sure you get the right staple, a rule of thumb is to simply make sure the material you're fastening takes up about half of the depth of the staple leg. So, just like Leslie did for the harder woods, you'd use a shorter staple for more holding power.
And if you're working on outdoor projects, say, where rust is a concern, you can choose stainless-steel staples. And if you're working on electrical projects, well, they even have insulated staples that will sort of cushion the wire and not break through.
If you want more information on how to choose the right staples for all your projects, along with info on the state-of-the-art T50 stapler from Arrow Fastener, take a look at their website at ArrowFastener.com.
LESLIE: Alright. Now we've got Randall on the line who's looking for a solution to leveling a slab foundation. Tell us what's going on.
RANDALL: Well, the foundation – looked up at the eave of the house and it's cracked out about a ½-inch. And it's going – well, looks like I need to get a slab foundation leveled and I've always hated slabs but this was a nice house when we bought it.
Anyway, I want to know what's the best solution for that in our type of soil in the – around the bottom. It's the Red River area, north of Dallas.
TOM: So you're interested in stabilizing the foundation or just leveling it for cosmetic reasons?
RANDALL: Both.
TOM: Hmm. OK.
RANDALL: Leveling it permanently where it's everything's like it should be.
TOM: Randall, are you seeing any cracks or you just noticed that it's sort of up in this one corner?
RANDALL: It's in at the peak of the house where the roof line – at the peak. I looked right up here up the side of the wall and there's about an inch crack and it's coming down. And I noticed it when I had to repair my air conditioner because the blower motor went out.
TOM: Alright. So this is not a floor. This is a wall when you say it's going up to the peak?
RANDALL: The wall. But the floor in the kitchen has got some lumps in it. I thought it was carpet but it's not.
TOM: OK. So, here's what you need to do. First of all, in terms of the floor in the kitchen, you're going to use a resurfacer product for that. It's called a floor resurfacer. It's a powdered mix that you add water to and basically trowel it on. And you can even out the floor and it frequently uses sort of an underlayment to either resilient flooring or vinyl flooring or ceramic tile.
And it comes in 50-pound bags. QUIKRETE makes it. It's called, again, a QUIKRETE floor resurfacer, self-leveling product. And it's basically a compound that you mix up, you spread it out. You can level your floor with that.
Now, in terms of the crack that's on the exterior, would you consider this hairline or is it open quite a bit?
RANDALL: Oh, it's open about almost an inch.
TOM: OK. You need to have this inspected. That's a major crack; that's not a minor crack. And we need to find out why that's happening. So you're going to have to contact either a professional home inspector or a structural engineer. Because if your wall opens up a full inch like that, then I'm concerned about some movement under the foundation on one of the opposite corners that would force that to happen – cause that to happen.
RANDALL: Right. I know there's got to be movement there when I've seen that.
TOM: Yep. Yeah, because it's – right, there's no other way to explain it. So, you're going to have to get this inspected and let me tell you why that's very important that you do it once and do it right. It's because someday you're going to want to sell this house and when you have a major crack like that, somebody's going to want to inspect the house. And if they see that crack and they don't see a real professional repair, they're going to ask you about it.
And what you want to tell them is that "yeah, I identified the crack; I had a structural engineer come out and inspect it." "The engineer gave me a report, told us how to fix it. Then I had a contractor come out and fix it, then I had the engineer come back and reinspect it and here's his letter saying everything is great." And that becomes, in effect, a pedigree on that structural repair so that any future buyer will have no concerns whatsoever about anything else happening to that wall.
So that's what I would do is I would have it inspected, get the advice, get it fixed and then you can move on.
LESLIE: You are tuned to The Money Pit Home Improvement Radio Show on air and online at MoneyPit.com. Well, as the temperatures are starting to dip, many of you may start thinking about improving your home's insulation so that you can actually lower those heating bills. Yeah, that's something that we want to do. We don't want to give all our money to the heating company; we actually want to save some.
But if you do want to cut drafts and lower those bills, there's really only one type of insulation that's going to do both. So we're going to have those details, next.
[audio timestamp: 0:33:47]
(theme song)
ANNOUNCER: This portion of The Money Pit is brought to you by The Iron Shop, the leading manufacturer of spiral stair kits. Visit www.TheIronShop.com today to find out how you can own a beautiful, iron spiral staircase.
TOM: Where home solutions live, welcome back to The Money Pit Home Improvement Radio Show on air and online at MoneyPit.com. I'm Tom Kraeutler.
LESLIE: And I'm Leslie Segrete. Well, fall is fast approaching and it's time to take on those fix-ups and projects around your house to get it in tip-top shape through the colder weather. And the big focus right now is saving money on winter energy bills.
TOM: That's right. And one of the simplest ways to save energy is to make sure your home has enough insulation. And one of the best ways to insulate is with spray foam.
Now, this is ideal because of its ability to do two things: that is to seal and insulate, especially in those smaller cracks and gaps around your home. Here to tell us more about spray-foam insulation is Betsy Gallacher. She is from the Icynene Corporation.
Hi, Betsy.
BETSY: Hi. How are you guys?
TOM: We are excellent.
So, Betsy, now, we have seen Icynene – Leslie and I – because for good times, we go to home improvement trade shows. But for our listeners that have not seen how this stuff works, let's do sort of the Icynene 101 on how this differs from what most people perceive as the only type of insulation and that is fiberglass batt.
BETSY: Well, the biggest difference, and you've really mentioned it already, is the air barrier. At the end of the day, if you don't have an air barrier, you're not getting the, I guess, type of insulating comfort that you need. When you use other types of traditional insulation, there's air gaps and air can come in. Then you would be amazed at the amount of air that is coming in or escaping from your home.
But with the air barrier, you can regulate the temperature within different floors within your home and keep it at the temperature that you want. So it's great and you mentioned as winter comes along, it keeps you comfortable inside your home and warm. But in the summer, it also keeps you cool and keeps that cool air inside and doesn't let it escape.
TOM: We're talking to Betsy Gallacher – she's the vice-president of marketing for Icynene – about the benefits of spray-foam insulation.
LESLIE: Now, Betsy, if you're adding this into an attic space and you, say, have existing fiberglass batts that are compressed, you've got to remove all of that. You don't want to put this on top of anything, correct?
BETSY: No, you wouldn't put it on top of it. Absolutely not. You would – the contractor would take all that existing insulation out. They would spray in the attic and what they can do is put it back in. It just provides a little bit more R-value but they can put it back on top of the insulation.
TOM: We're talking to Betsy Gallacher. She's the vice-president of marketing for Icynene.
Betsy, one more question before we let you go. In the attic situation, you talked about the need to remove, obviously, all of the old, inefficient, fiberglass insulation that might be all compressed and not really doing its job and use it – start with a clean, open bay to spray in the Icynene. Do you still have to ventilate the attic the same way you would if you were using batt insulation?
BETSY: You can have vented or unvented attics. If you want to make a conditioned space in the attic, then you can do a procedure where it becomes an unvented attic. But ventilation is always important: mechanical ventilation. So we always say, "Seal it tight but ventilate right." So it's always important to have ventilation and the contractors will recommend to homeowners what is the best way to achieve this.
TOM: Great advice. Betsy Gallacher, Vice President of Marketing for Icynene, thank you so much for stopping by The Money Pit and filling us all in on this technology. It's very exciting and I'm sure you're going to be saving folks a lot of energy dollars this winter.
BETSY: And thank you. It's been wonderful talking with you today.
TOM: If you'd like more information on the Icynene product, you can visit their website at Icynene.com. That's spelled I-c-y-n-e-n-e.com or call them at 888-758-7325.
This is The Money Pit Home Improvement Radio Show on air and online at MoneyPit.com. That's all the time we have this hour. Thank you so much for joining us.
I'm Tom Kraeutler.
LESLIE: And I'm Leslie Segrete.
TOM: Remember, you can do it yourself ...
LESLIE: But you don't have to do it alone.
[audio timestamp: 0:38:28]
(theme song)
(Copyright 2011 Squeaky Door Productions, Inc. No portion of this transcript or audio file may be reproduced in any format without the express written permission of Squeaky Door Productions, Inc.)


text:
At Staten Island University Hospital, our physicians have earned a reputation
for excellence and innovation in education,
research and patient care. Our doctors are
renowned in their fields and lead
exceptional teams of nurses, technicians,
clinicians and support staff that deliver
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Staten Island University Hospital provides complete medical
and surgical services in inpatient and outpatient
settings at both our North and South site locations.
Read on to learn more about the full range of
services offered at SIUH, including
locations, contact information
and descriptions of programs.
At Staten Island University Hospital, we strive to provide
the best health care for our patients. We also seek
to make their stay as comfortable as possible.
That's why we provide many helpful
resources for patients and visitors
to help them navigate our
hospital with ease.
Would you like to visit someone who is a patient at Staten Island University Hospital? If so, we welcome you. Family and friends
can play a key role in the healing process
for patients. You can serve as a
companion, advocate and be a
participant in their care.
Staten Island University Hospital is part of the Staten Island community. In addition to providing state-of-the-art healthcare services, we educate our
neighbors by sponsoring
health-related community
events and support groups.
Learn More
Providing quality health care for our patients is our greatest priority.
In order to do this, our hospital family is committed
to the education of our medical caregivers.
We provide accredited training and
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allied health professionals and technicians.
To provide education and support to those considering weight-loss surgery.
Click here for more information about Bariatric Surgery.
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subset: commoncrawl


text:
I'm really interested, for a comparison, in which components do you use in your high-end system for streaming. Do you use USB audio which I consider a mess?
Your Airport limits bit/freq to 16/48 max, even if you can playback 24/96 files they're downsampled before the DAC.
I only care about what humans can hear. I don't waste my time chasing numbers for the sake of numbers. Before I set up my music server, I spent the better part of a week auditioning and testing codecs with a wide variety of music, from 78 era recordings all the way up to modern- classical, opera, jazz, big band, vocals, country- everything. I can tell you the strengths and weaknesses of each codec I tested. I can tell you which ones and bitrates artifact with specific sounds, and which ones are audibly transparent.
My main system would blow you away from every aspect- soundstage, dynamics, response, clarity and accuracy. I've worked with production sound in TV for many years, and I know what good sound is. I'm happy to share with you how to achieve that, and how to not waste your time on things that are more in your head than in your ears.
But you have to listen, and you have to not have your mind snapped shut with all of your preexisting conclusions.
To answer your question...
My iTunes library which contains over a year and a half of music in AAC 256 VBR format is on a Drobo which consists of four 2 TB hard drives in a sort of a RAID system. The data is protected, so if a drive fails, it can recreate the lost data. The drive is connected to a Mac Mini using Firewire 800. The server streams music 24/7 throughout my house using an Apple Airport wifi network. i can control every component from anywhere by using my iPhone and a Harmony Link. The Mini is the main source for my screening room. It plays music files, hidef video, 5:1 audio, etc. I also have a Sony bluray player for physical media connected using HDMI. The Mini is connected to my Yamaha AV receiver using optical. The Yamaha decodes everything I throw at it flawlessly. The receiver powers a set of custom made 12 inch five way studio monitors and a set of JBL towers as the mains. I have a top of the line Sunfire 12 inch subwoofer, a Klipsch center channel, and Klipsch bookshelves in the rear. The whole system is carefully equalized and tweaked to the room which doubles as a listening room and screening room with a ten foot hidef projection system. The projector is connected by HDMI- it's a high end Epson UB model.
My system is capable of both 5:1 movies with wall shaking bass and well meshed surround and totally realistic presentation of chamber music or acoustic jazz with a wide, clearly defined soundstage. It sounds as good whisper quiet as it does at volumes you can hear a block away. The sound of orchestral music is extremely realistic. You can close your eyes and pinpoint the individual instruments in space. I've been working on this system for nearly 30 years and I've just gotten to the place where I'm satisfied. There is only one more change I plan to make. I'm going to replace the rear channel speakers with studio monitors to tighten up the 5:1 soundfield a bit.
i got to the place I am with sound by studying the basic physics of acoustics and by testing each component by ear to determine exactly what it added to the chain. All elements of a system aren't equal. Some things really don't matter. Other things are VERY important to get right. Having the experience to know which is which is the key to getting great sound.
Edited by bigshot - 2/6/13 at 10:12am


text:
Celebrities in Jumpsuits
6 Celeb-Inspired Jumpsuits to Spend All Spring and Summer In
Photo 1 of 7
6 Celeb-Inspired Jumpsuits to Spend All Spring and Summer In
With the weather getting warmer and warmer, celebs are starting to bust out their most fabulous jumpsuits. Florals, ruffles, sheer, nude, black — you name it, they're sporting it in the cutest ways. So why not follow their lead and start wearing yours, too? Draw inspiration from Ginnifer Goodwin's Isabel Marant floral and ruffle jumpsuit, Helena Christensen's retro-inspired jumpsuit, Zoe Saldana's utilitarian chic look, and way more. Step inside to see who else looked fab in their jumpsuits and to shop their pieces for yourself.


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TripAdvisor ratingRead reviews
Crowne Plaza HELSINKI
Enjoy music, the arts and fine dining during your stay at the Crowne Plaza Helsinki hotel, a 10-minute walk from Helsinki city centre. Stride past the colourful, ornate masks in the Lobby and receive a warm greeting from friendly Front Desk staff at the Crowne Plaza Helsinki hotel. While we take care of your luggage, head to the stylish Bar Code to order sweet and fruity cloudberry liqueurs, or savour Finnish specialities in Restaurant Macu . Its 25 minutes on the Finnair Shuttle Bus from Helsinki-Vantaa International Airport to a stop outside the hotel. Crowne Plaza Helsinki is next to the inspiring green space of Hesperia Park , where the Finnish National Opera is in residence at the curved-glass Opera House. Walk 15 minutes to shopping malls and boutiques in the city centre, or 7 minutes to the National Museum of Finland , which evokes the romance of medieval churches and castles. There's a cutting-edge Fitness Centre and indoor pool in our luxurious Forever Day Spa, where you can unwind with a massage or gather your thoughts in the heavenly solarium. Upgrade to a Club room or Junior Suite to gain exclusive entry to our chic Club Lounge, or invite up to 1,500 guests to events in our 14 meeting and banquet rooms . You can also rent a Zonga mobile device for wireless access across Finland.
Accommodation details
Address:Mannerheimintie 50
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Plan and book your holiday with British Airways, online or by phone. Enjoy all these great benefits:
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By Gene Phelps/NEMS Daily Journal
STARKVILLE – Starkville has its sights set on defending its MHSAA 5A state championship in boys high school soccer.
Saltillo, a program on the rise, continues to build.
In the state playoffs Wednesday, the edge went to the established Yellow Jackets, who stung the visiting and climbing Tigers 6-0 in their first-round match.
Juan Salazar scored two goals and had two assists to power Starkville (14-1-1).
"We're trying to get better and better each game," said the junior forward. "It gets harder and harder this time of year. We've got a pretty young team. You try to improve each game."
Starkville lost seven seniors from last year's state title team. The Jackets' lineup featured five sophomores.
There was some concern when the season started as to how the young players would perform.
"It took a little while and the returning guys were worried," Starkville coach Brian Bennett said. "After that first practice, they knew we had a chance to be good."
'very good team'
Saltillo (10-9) won just two games four years ago in coach Eric Reynolds' first season. He knew coming in, however, that stopping Starkville would not be an easy task.
"They can move the ball around and capitalize on your mistakes," he said. "We played with them for 25 minutes, then they got behind our front line. They stretch you out and attack.
"They are a very good team."
Dylan Howard scored the game's first goal in the 20th minute. Salazar followed with his first goal in the 30th minute to give the Jackets a 2-0 cushion.
Late in the first half, Starkville got two goals from Justin Gordon and Taylor Wise to take a 4-0 halftime lead. Gordon scored the lone goal for the Jackets in last season's 1-0 state championship victory against Pascagoula.
In the second half, Wise and Salazar scored goals before Starkville went to its bench in the final 20 minutes.


text:
Prices and availability are subject to change from the time and date that you print this page.
2/27/2017 3:35:04 PM. For Customer Service, please call 800.933.9904
Between bedtime, naptime and the occasional round of jumping, your little one's bed needs help looking its best. That's why we designed this stylish sheet set. Its dotted pattern will keep your bed looking well-groomed, even when it's not.
Full Dapper Dot Sheet Set
Includes fitted sheet, flat sheet and two pillowcases
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- Nod exclusive
- Features printed white dots on a grey chambray background
- Extra pillowcase available
- Imported
- Click here to order Complimentary Swatches
Show 'em what you're made of
- 100% cotton
Care instructions
- Machine wash
DimensionsFull Sheet Set
- Flat Sheet: 96" x 81"
- Fitted Sheet: 76" x 54" with a 12" pocket depth
- Case: 30" x 20"
- Flat Sheet: 102" x 90"
- Fitted Sheet: 80" x 60" with a 12" pocket depth
At The Land of Nod, nothing is more important to us than providing safe, high-quality products to you and your family. We believe that kids' products should be able to handle everything kids throw their way (literally and figuratively). That's why all of our products have an 18-year quality guarantee. And, hopefully, your kids will no longer be sleeping in bunk beds by then.
Who's there?
Alaska who?
Alaska you nicely to open the door.
Our Designers Recommend
On the Grid Nightstand (Navy) $99.00More Colors Available
Bright Idea Floor Lamp (Blue) $79.00More Colors Available
Half Dipped Orange Curtains $29.97 - $49.97reg. $59.00 - $69.00More Colors Available
Color Bar Ledge $29.00 each
Archway 7-Drawer Dresser (Cocoa) $999.00More Colors Available


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Fiesta Friday Nights at the de Young Presents an Abundance of Music and Art Inspired by Picasso
This event is expired.
Come early and enjoy the galleries! Friday Night programming begins at 6:00 p.m.
Wilsey Court
DJ Music at 6:00–8:30 p.m.
DJ Sandina, a.k.a. La Positiva, plays tribute to Picasso's many muses with the sounds of Spain and France and the blending of rhythms from Africa, the Caribbean, and Latin America.
Live Opera
Performances 6:30–6:45, 7:30–7:45, and 8:15–8:30.
Live opera with tenor Claudio Santome and soprano Laurel Sprigg Soprano with piano accompaniment by Susana Mariles.
Hands-on Art Making
6:00 p.m. Every week, engage in an all ages art project. This week, join our special guest artist, Kurt Stoeckel, featuring one-line drawings inspired by Picasso. Create your own one-line drawing greeting card for a special someone.
Koret Auditorium (free tickets required: see below for information)
Live music begins at 7:00–8:30 p.m.
Known for its elegant performances, the Cypress String Quartet has a sound has been called "beautifully proportioned and powerful" by The Washington Post and has been singled out by Chamber Music magazine as "a Generation-X ensemble to watch." The Cypress (Cecily Ward, violin; Tom Stone, violin; Ethan Filner, viola; and Jennifer Kloetzel, cello) formed in 1996 in San Francisco and created its signature sound through intense readings of J.S. Bach's Chorales. Built up from the bottom register of the quartet and layered like a pyramid, the sound is clear and transparent, allowing the texture of the music to be discerned immediately.
The Cypress String Quartet's unusual approach to its career is informed by each member's fierce dedication to the ensemble. From the beginning, the foursome made a commitment to each other to only perform together as a quartet. They realized early on that they needed to create their own performance opportunities and organized as a nonprofit, the Cypress Performing Arts Association.
Members have trained individually at institutions such as the Juilliard School, Interlochen Arts Academy, Cleveland Institute of Music, Guildhall School of Music and Drama and the Royal College of Music. They play exceptional instruments, including violins by Antonio Stradivarius (1681) and Carlos Bergonzi (1733), a viola by Vittorio Bellarosa (1947), and a cello by Hieronymus Amati II (1701). The Cypress Quartet takes its name from Cypresses, a set of twelve love songs for string quartet by Antonin Dvořák.
6:00–8:30 p.m.
Printmaking demonstration by Juan R. Fuentes, cultural activist, artist, and printmaker
Open Studios
Kimball Artist Studio/Education Gallery
6:00–8:45 p.m.
Meet 2011 de Young Artist Fellows Todd T. Brown, multidisciplinary artist; Kevin Epps, filmmaker; and Campo Santo theater company, directed by Sean San José; and enjoy artist talks, salons, and performances each Friday Night presented in collaboration with Red Poppy Art House, the African American Art and Culture Complex, and Intersection for the Arts.
Herbst Special Exhibition Galleries
6:30–7:30 p.m. (special exhibition tickets required)
Docent available within the special exhibition Picasso: Masterpieces from the Musée National Picasso, Paris
July and August 2011 at the de Young Museum
Ticket Information
Programs are free. Museum and special exhibition admission required to visit the galleries. For more information on membership, please click here.
For Cypress String Quartet in Koret Auditorium: Free tickets will be available at 6:00 p.m. in front of the Auditorium. No reservations will be taken. Limited seating. Free tickets will be null and void at 7:15 p.m.
Order tickets online
Contact InformationGregory Stock


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Race Day Wheels
Race Day Wheels, The Original Wheel Rental Company, began in 2005 and is the Official Wheel Rental Business of the IRONMAN® U.S. Series. Our sole mission is to make you faster without you having to break the bank.
We're here to give both beginner triathletes and experts the opportunity to conveniently ride fast carbon race wheels without having to purchase them. Why pay $2700+ for wheels that you may only use a few times a year when you can rent newly released 2016 ZIPP Firecrest carbon clincher race wheels starting at only $160?
Wheel rental includes:
Even better, if you do decide that you love the wheels so much that you can't live without them, we can't say that we'd blame you and we'll be happy to sell them to you at a discounted price. We'll also subtract one rental fee from the discounted price for a used set and 2 rental fees for a new set.
Race Day Wheels will be at the majority of the IRONMAN and IRONMAN 70.3 events, so if you're looking to hit a PR this year, lock in your carbon wheels now while they're still available.
TriBike Transport (TBT) is providing trusted, economical, hassle-free service to your race. Reserve your space today for premium bike transport.
Fully Assembled Bike Transport
The original Fully Assembled Bike Transport service for cyclists and triathletes alike. For an additional fee TBT will take your wheel bag and a gear bag, too!
Pack & Ship Bike Transport
TBT offers Pack & Ship service to athletes living in areas that their trucks just can't get to. You're only responsible for dis-assembling and boxing your bike for outbound shipping and then re-assembly once your bike is returned home. TBT will handle the rest!
Valet Service*
Take the night off and use TBT's optional Valet Service. Whether you shipped your bike with TBT or not –TBT will pick up your bike and bags (bike and run) from transition after your race. Two unique Valet Services to choose from:
Travel light with TBT!
For more information and to find a partner shop near you, please visit www.tribiketransport.com.
About TriBike Transport: Founded on the principle of stellar service, since 2004, TriBike Transport (TBT) has provided safe, stress-free and competitively priced round-trip bicycle transportation to triathlon and cycling events. Bicycles are transported fully-assembled, or with our new Pack & Ship Bike Transport service, via TBT's trusted partner shop network and professional drivers, easing the burden on athletes and allowing them to focus fully on their race preparations. For detailed information visit www.tribiketransport.com
*Available at select races
**All fully assembled transports include $1,000 of declared value, with option to purchase additional coverage. P&S transports include option to purchase coverage.


text:
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Hello MMORPG.com!
I wanted to share with all of you what I look for in a game when it comes to PVP. Its actually so simple that something could be implemented in many games today which would convince me to play them and there are many different games that I like to play for different reasons but PVP is my top priority in having a good time. I am hoping that games coming out in the future can satisfy me in these areas but for the most part I can expect that they will not and have been stuck with games that are not as populated as they used to be or simply do not exist.
There are a few different types of PVP games that I crave:
Adrenaline Rush! - This is something that I think can only be felt from playing a FFA PVP game in an open seamless world without instances and I also think that fighting should be primarily based on player-skill. If there was another strict ruleset in place so that dying once would set me back several days or more instead of full-looting than that may create a similar satisfactory feeling but it must have a strong risk vs reward optional. The more options during combat the better and the more precise every action needs to be the better. Having to be aware of the surroundings and predict a few steps ahead is also important in this type of game. Instance-free is important due to pride so that every win is worth that much more and online fame in the community is more likely to shine. The more buttons available to press the better so that I am more likely to break a sweat during a heated battle. This type of game should be realistic feeling so that I feel immersed in a fantasy world and large enough or sandbox enough that the story of what happens to my character is my own and forever remains my own. I want to lose myself in this world and I want every gaming session to be unpridictable due to other players (or GMs) activities which may surprise me at any given time. Darkfall currently provides the biggest adrenaline rush that I have come across in a game but it wont be around forever. I wish that this game had fatalities like Age of Conan! Its pretty cool that this game can also be like playing Risk if being a general of a large clan because territorial conflicts bring whole new strategies to the table. The future of these types of games is very intriguing!
Sweaty challenge - If a game has non-stop instant action that requires all of my immediate attention during every second than I may break a sweat. I prefer this kind of game at times but it doesn't seem to exist as much as it used to. Bunny-hopping helps, FPS gameplay is prefered, custom classes with unique roles can make or break a game, minimal character development or grind, instant respawn, bragging rights available somehow (total kills shown at the end of the match among other rewards?), and fun objectives that do not force people into playing certain roles if they do not want to so that going off on my own to kill people instead of going with the group should always be an option with this type of game since I do not want to feel like my team is losing because I am not doing some required thing at every moment to compete with the enemy. Simple battlefields may satisfy all of these needs so instances would be good. Wolfenstein - Enemy Territory is a good example of this kind of game and has at times covered me in my own sweat as I struggled to remain the top killer. I have been getting into Battlefield 3 but its still not as fun as Wolfenstein was for me for some reason so hopefully a game will come out someday like BF3 but with bunny-hopping and cooler mission objectives.
Objective-free team vs team matches - This type of game is a little more laid back than those listed above because tab-targeting and auto-attack is allowed. Most of this game should be about customizing the characters build and cooperative strategy to defeat the opposing team. Think of Guildwars Random Arena battles but harder since every PVP title earned must be maintained. I do not like the fact that you can earn a title in Guildwars inevitably by farming and wish that PVP titles were difficult to maintain. I would not like having objectives in this type of game as much and would rather just kill or be killed. The maps should be simple and small. Compared to the other types of games listed above this would probably be a very kick-back game but again if there was risk vs reward involved than I am much more likely to be at the edge of my seat. The amount of customization that Guildwars allows makes this type of game worth it to me. Being able to create a unique build that becomes part of a unique team is what this type of game should be focused on. I hope that there will always be a game like this to play but its not nearly as fun if new patches are not being introduced often because its my favorite thing to be the first person to discover OP builds before anyone else. This game should remain instant action and grind-free. Its hard to see anything replacing Guildwars in this manner but I still hope that it will happen so that I can experience being the first to start trends all over again. I am afraid that GW2 will not have what I want in this area but I will be trying it since I loved the first so much.
Launch-populated Gank Fest - This type of gameplay seems to happen only when a FFA PVP game launches and seems to have a strong following that go from game to game as they are released. This is also the type of gameplay that prevents most people from trying FFA PVP games. Again most games lack that Risk vs Reward so it usually gets boring fast but nonetheless I still have a lot of fun when PVP games are released because its fun to be ahead of people and experience things like soloing a full group. I have never enjoyed griefing the same person over and over again unless they were talking mad shizzle and deserved it or something but have had a lot of joy in wiping out lower level players in general or defending lower level players from other gankers in good fun (the more outnumbered I am means the more pride I have when I win if I can win). I have been known for hooking up people or giving tips after wiping them so not a total jack-ass but its pretty fun to prey on victims in an open world endlessly (which is usually only possible during the first couple months after a game is launched). If its a themepark than I definitely prefer something like Vanguard with an open world over something like Age of Conan since there is usually only one entrance/exit to everything which is annoying in any FFA PVP setting unless you are part of the zerg although the first month of AoC was fun as hell! Yeah I am a loser and did nothing other than camp the Tortage Underhalls with a naked chick by the name of Lezbow that no one would allow in their guild but with that type of game that's all it will do for me because it lacked reasons to PVP and all of the later PVE areas had zergs camping the entrances which I couldn't face solo when they were double my level .. . Tortage Underhalls was awesome fun though but to hell with being forced to PVE when I had Tortage Underhalls! The Ranger was so overpowered that I claimed the place whenever I played pretty much. I am thinking of going back since it became F2P if it will allow me to twink-out at Tortage again. Anyways, this type of gameplay is usually only fun during the first month or two after a FFA PVP game (or server) is released which is actually not all that often. Hopefully a game will someday be released that provides this feeling constantly. I am not sure how it could be done . ..... prehaps if there was a perma-death and the game was one of the funnest out there? Its hard to imagine what it would take to keep new players incoming but most games are not worth it to me when it comes to grinding to the end level and then grinding for gear only to compete evenly when I can run around and be king of lower-levels while they are populated. Its difficult to PVE until the end level when I do not even know if it will be worth it and no matter how fun it is, I will not play it for years unless it has some sort of risk vs reward system (a real one and it doesnt even have to matter to those who PVE). Also, why is it that so many games force me to PVE until the end and then grind gear to be competitive in PVP after the game has been out for some time? Don't they understand that some people just want to PVP but do not have time to do it in all these games (esp. when its not even as fun as it is when its released)?
So these are the types of PVP games that I mostly prefer. I hope that more games come out in the future with something to offer me so that I am not stuck with a couple games along with playing the release of a bunch of shitty games. Risk vs Reward is very important to me and it doesn't even have to be something that potentially involves griefing .. .. since there could be a title or score for bragging rights alone (that was extremely difficult to maintain or its worthless!) that would be plenty motivation for me to get the rush that I look for. Why don't more games do this? Don't they want me to play it to the end?
I hope that some developers out there reads this and sees that I would pay a monthly sub in a heartbeat for many games out there if they simply had something difficult to compete for. I would even pay for several games at once! Its sad to me that games do not serve me in this way and I think that it ends up hurting them in the long run because they always get the usual rush of PVPers at the beginning of every launch for a couple months who simply don't have the time to play it out until the end but would pay them the same amount of money if there was a reason worth staying. Instead new-comers are griefed more by players becoming bored with a game that is trying to force them to chase some PVE carrot so that they can someday play the endgame that may not even be worth it.
NEWS FLASH! A bank was robbed the other day and a man opened fire on the customers being held hostage. One customer zig-zag sprinted until he found cover. When questioned later he explained that he was a hardcore Darkfall Online player and knew just what to do.
Serious question here. I've noted that you seem to be all bout PvP.
So, why aren't you playing Darkfall? What are they lacking for you, or what's wrong with it with what you want?
Once upon a time....
Originally posted by Amaranthar
Serious question here. I've noted that you seem to be all bout PvP.
So, why aren't you playing Darkfall? What are they lacking for you, or what's wrong with it with what you want?
I do play Darkfall although my account is having problems right now. I thought I renewed it but guess I have to contact support.
I do not have enough time to play Darkfall as much as I would like to and sometimes I am in the mood for something else (especially right after dying and losing a bunch of stuff) but yeah for my main game its definitely that one. Whats the deal did you think that the purpose of Darkfall was to rid the griefers out of the wholesome games? lol jk
I wish that Wolfenstein was still around . ...! I miss that game so much but can only find bots to play with.
Guildwars is a totally awesome game and I play RA often but what ticks me off is the fact that you gain PVP titles from farming and that there is no risk in losing those titles to other players. I wish that they had some sort of way for me to compete for a PVP title without having to farm points mindlessly. It doesn't make any difference if I gain the points three times faster than other people if they have had time to farm points. Kill/death ratio doesn't matter. Any noob could play RA until they reach a high ranking title by leaching off of others. This wouldn't be true if titles could be taken from others and thats fair and how it works in the real world. Why should some kid have a better title than me simply because he stays at home and plays video games all day? They have lots of little kid potty mouths in RA as well and many act all leet but I would love to see what would happen if titles had to be maintained.
There are many titles on the horizon that I am looking forward to trying but really think that it sucks that competition in most MMORPGs is meant for people who have no life. I think that the more skilled person deserves the PVP title over someone farming points or leeching off of other players, don't you? What makes people play the same MMORPG title for years anyways? Raids? Not for me. The main reason for obtaining gear for me would be to see how it works against other players. Everytime that I have played MMORPGs for years was mostly because I always had something to work toward that was very challenging. I have played games that were completely broken in many ways but totally had lots of fun with the rush of knowing that I could not die to PVP at all or lose weeks of play. This can be done without real risk. It can be done by a stupid number that nobody cares about but the competitive PVP types. Do you think that this would be a bad thing in your game? Every game could use something like that . .... would give me something to do!
NEWS FLASH! A bank was robbed the other day and a man opened fire on the customers being held hostage. One customer zig-zag sprinted until he found cover. When questioned later he explained that he was a hardcore Darkfall Online player and knew just what to do.
Naa, I want a Sandbox game that's very worldly. I want that "realistic" base with fantasy stacked on top of that base. So numbers mean very little to me, the experience of playing in the game world and trying to make a place in that world is what I'm looking for.
I like PvP, if there's meaning to it inside that world that I want. I don't like PvPing for numbers or status coded in the game. I don't like PvP just for the sake of PvPing (although game/player sponsored tourneys in a "realistic" (makes sense inside the game world) are cool. I especially don't like Arenas for the game's PvP (just totally unrelated to the world and meaningless). But I also don't want to see "worldly PvP" everywhere, anywhere, all the time. Or even close to that.
I'm thinking currently the best solution for "world PvP" for all in a game would be heavy and real punishment to the characters that PK, but allow warfare and also player made factions tied to a general game faction system (as in deities and guild allegiance to). And social rules, such as no warfare (even if you are at war) inside NPC cities and their immediate area of control.
Once upon a time....
For games that do not have risk vs reward (most MMORPGs) they could easily add it without upsetting the already existing player-base. A game does not need to have full-loot PVP to satisfy an inch that many of us crave. Like I said this is easily done by having titles that can be taken by other people (instead of gear or coin) or a score figured more by kill/death ratio instead of the amount of time spent farming PVP point.
Its not like it would even matter to many people in these already existing games if there was a score or title that had no purpose other than for PVP bragging rights but for people like me it would be fun as hell to work at earning a title and maintaining it for as long as I can from good performance instead of time spent farming.
Surely I am not the only one who would like to see something like this in every MMORPG?
NEWS FLASH! A bank was robbed the other day and a man opened fire on the customers being held hostage. One customer zig-zag sprinted until he found cover. When questioned later he explained that he was a hardcore Darkfall Online player and knew just what to do.
If you think adding risk & reward systems don't take away from the game then you are wrong. Ofcrouse they do. Not everyone gets the adrenaline rush whatever is at stake, and many will be put off by the penalty.
And personally I think high risk ruins PvP. People become cowards, and proper PvP withers and dies. Its all cat 'n' mouse and backstabbing after that. You can spend more time avoiding battle or chasing someone than actually fighting. Not fun for many people.
I skate to where the puck is going to be, not where it has been -Wayne Gretzky
some ppl like to relax and play a bit and if is needed alt tab anytime to do other things when you are in PvP you cant alt tab
BestSigEver :P
But if its only for bragging rights why would anyone oppose it when it could just be ignored??
NEWS FLASH! A bank was robbed the other day and a man opened fire on the customers being held hostage. One customer zig-zag sprinted until he found cover. When questioned later he explained that he was a hardcore Darkfall Online player and knew just what to do.
I would agree to a game with relatively safe areas like EvE. But forget about all out FFA PvP. It would be cool if there were areas with less security but more valuable materials.
Also, in games like Darkfall, the more advanced players tend to risk very little as they have a lot of stored wealth whereas the newer players risk more since what they have is more valuable to them, and they also stand little chance against a veteran player. They could be potentially rewarded pretty good for taking out a veteran player but the chances are slim to none.
I am not asking for the current MMORPGs to change their PVP. If they have battlegrounds, instances, open world, FFA PVP, PVP instances, etc. it makes no difference to me if there is no risk vs reward. My point is that every MMORPG that is currently active could use some kind of system merely for bragging rights that awards performance over time to farm. Its not a difficult thing to implement. Even the most carebear games could do it. For me, it would make me want to try out games more because I think its fun to have something to compete for so that I am more at the edge of my seat during whatever PVP that they have in the game.
Guildwars could have a title that you take from others (they do have competitions for HA and stuff for top guilds or whatever but I would like to see something like this for RA since glad points can be mindlessly farmed). AoC would be a lot funner if there was risk vs reward! If someone doesn't care about competing to be the best PVPer than they can simply ignore this title or score.
NEWS FLASH! A bank was robbed the other day and a man opened fire on the customers being held hostage. One customer zig-zag sprinted until he found cover. When questioned later he explained that he was a hardcore Darkfall Online player and knew just what to do.
Because risk/reward is deemed adequate for most, and it is too much work/costs to have a special version?
Originally posted by jusomdude
I would agree to a game with relatively safe areas like EvE. But forget about all out FFA PvP. It would be cool if there were areas with less security but more valuable materials.
There are no safe areas in EVE. The "safe" areas of EVE have the most player deaths. Any noob in a tech 1 fit destroyer can kill a mining barge in high sec before Concord gets them. A tech 2 destroyer can kill a tech 2 hulk before concord gets there.
On topic, I agree with the risk reward thing. I wish more games would just design that into the game though. Looting or gear destruction isn't really that big a deal if the game is designed around it. Lose a ship in EVE and you can have another ready to go after just a quick trip to the market. If you added player looting to WoW a whole lot of nerds would probably commit ritual suicide when they lost all the epics that they have sacrificed countless weekends of raiding to get. The solution is to not design the game around gear progression, and simply have a sword be a sword. There might be a slightly sharper sword, or a slightly faster sword, but really you just need a sword to competitive. The Endgame would be about keeping your stuff and acquiring stuff from your (and your guild's) enemies. Most companies would rather copy WoW and make failgames, but there is always hope with CCP. World of Darkness hopefully will have this kind of mechanics and all the people that want this style of game but just can't be a spaceship will enjoy it.
Are you a Pavlovian Fish Biscuit Addict? Get Help Now!
I will play no more MMORPGs until somethign good comes out!
I find the mentality of PvPers and competitive PvErs tends to be so loud and so toxic that they are impossible to ignore when mixed into the general communty. So no thanks.
Sorry friend, you normally produce fairly well thought out ideas (usually centered around Darkfall), but please reconsider spacing and pressing the 'Enter' key a few more types when you're typing a wall of text like that.
Originally posted by Sid_Vicious
But if its only for bragging rights why would anyone oppose it when it could just be ignored??
If it is just for bragging rights then I would be all in favour of it. I am big fan of playing games just for the challenge and to prove a point.
Sadly I really do not see the PVPers accepting that non-PvP players are able to succeed in the game without being forced into PvP. They will want rewards and features that affect the non-PvPers and the non-PvPers will not like that.
I had a hunch after my first week of darkfall that it would be a long time or never before a game would come out that could match it feature wise and that appears to still be the case.
a lot player who left complaining didnt really have many options to leave to worth talking much about. Others who left just thought they had the stomach for FFA pvp but really didnt.
I for one dont even like FFA pvp outside of war but I have a thick consitiution and just let that ride because the rest of the game was so much fun to me.
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Ive started on Darktide AC1&2 and later lineage2 and Darkfall and there is only a small part that dont have any problem with penaltys its no big deal at all but it seems majority and my gues is 99% somehow can't handle penalty thats why games like Darkfall stay eather small or die out. Also those who dedicate themselfs playing PvP free for all games have a tendancy to cheat that was one of main problems with Darkfall cheating.
Hope to build full AMD system RYZEN/VEGA/AM4!!!
MB:Asus V De Luxe z77
CPU:Intell Icore7 3770k
GPU: AMD Fury X(waiting for BIG VEGA 10 or 11 HBM2?(bit unclear now))
MEMORY:Corsair PLAT.DDR3 1866MHZ 16GB
PSU:Corsair AX1200i
OS:Windows 10 64bit
Originally posted by Classicstar
Ive started on Darktide AC1&2 and later lineage2 and Darkfall and there is only a small part that dont have any problem with penaltys its no big deal at all but it seems majority and my gues is 99% somehow can't handle penalty thats why games like Darkfall stay eather small or die out. Also those who dedicate themselfs playing PvP free for all games have a tendancy to cheat that was one of main problems with Darkfall cheating.
there is a lot of truth to the statement of 'I work hard during the day if i wanted stress and high risk i wouldnt be playing a video game in the first place' statement.
That said, my best times in darkfall was during large scale battles, but the kind where we knew it was on, not random
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Orangeville City Council met on July 12. Orangeville celebration will be held this week.
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Pat Jones, Carol Stilson was excused. Ethan Migliori a candidate for county commissioner appeared before the city council and explained his qualifications.
The council passed a resolution approving the adoption and support of Orangeville City Community Covenant to honor and celebrate the military men and women of Orangeville City and their families, and all military men and women, and their families, who have served, or are presently serving in the military, and thereby courageously support and defend our Country, and Orangeville City.
Carole Larsen was appointed to be chairperson to the Military Community Covenant Committee. Larsen reported, the ceremony for the signing of this Covenant by the city council members will take place prior to the Orangeville Days, Humphrey Lamb Fry July 20 at 6:pm.
A resolution was passed to require all residents of Orangeville City using secondary water for agriculture flood irrigation to convert over to a sprinkler system by Oct. 1, 2013.
Orangeville residents who have building permits and have not completed their project and finalized the building permit process for more than a year, will receive letters of non-compliance and asking them to contact the Orangeville City office.
The week of July 16 will see the beginning of the chip seal project on the streets of Orangeville. The pot holes around town are being repaired first.
Vehicles that are on the street during the chip seal project may be towed at owner expense.
Larsen of Orangeville Planning and Zoning, reported the Tanners are planning to go ahead with their subdivision East and North of their house.
Mayor Pat Jones said the city purchased a Logan City Animal Control truck through the government web site for about $2,000. The Mayor said this truck was a bargain.


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Welcome to your morning dose of denim news, links, sales, and inside info! Catch up on what's happening and browse our personal picks for the most interesting what-not that turns up during our morning web crawl. Got a tip you think we should include, a sale you want to share, or a style you just saw and can't live without? Email us!
1. A behind-the-scenes style video of James Franco's 7 For All Mankind ad campaign (more info here) shows him chasing west-coast frivolity across a dreamlike landscape, camera poised. Beach parties, girls kissing, balloons, sparklers, and jeans are the subject matter, and while that sounds like a peter pan syndrome-style birthday party, but the results are actually very enticing. Check it out here.
2. Hudson's Nico is now available in a psychedelic galactic-geometric oil spill print dubbed "Neb Nebula". We're obsessed (and we'll show you how to wear it, so stay tuned).
3. Paige Denim is the latest to roll out the floral print denim for spring, introducing floral styles in cropped ankle skinny jeans, a skirt, and cut-off shorts.
4. Levi's launched their first dedicated Made & Crafted shop in their San Francisco flagship, featuring knotted rugs made with old Levi's jeans and a merchandised evolution of the 501 jean, from the 1800s moving forward. Sounds like a denim-head's dream.
Levi's Store
300 Post Street
(between Stockton St & Powell St)
San Francisco, CA 94108
5. Diesel Black Gold is opening a retail location of its own in Soho, to showcase the edgy line in an environment that resembles a chic soho loft. Natural light and hardwood floors are key elements int he atmosphere. The official opening is tomorrow, and you can find it at 68 Greene Street (near the Apple store).
—Michelle Christina Larsen
Tags: diesel black gold soho, hudson jeans nico, james franco 7 for all mankind campaign, levi's made & crafted shop, levi's san francisco flagship, paige denim floral


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Greg Heffley Actor, Zach Gordon
You know him as Greg Heffley in the Diary of a Wimpy Kid movies. I met him when he came to Scholastic for a Live Chat a couple of years ago before the 1st Wimpy Kid movie came out. He was hilarious and adorable in real life, much more than Greg would be. We now have a new interview with him after his 3rd Wimpy Kid movie. Read on for Zach's current reflections on his life as an actor, his favorite books, and his hopes for the future.
Q: What have you learned about yourself from being an actor?
Zach: Being an actor has made me realize that I can overcome anything, whether it's acting, school or any other challenge. When I put my mind to anything, I can accomplish so much. When I act, I become another character and I bring ideas and qualities to the character that I imagine and create. You have to let your imagination go when you act and become the character, and that's the fun of it.
Q: What advice do you have for kids interested in being professional actors?
Zach: Have fun and don't take it too seriously. There is a lot of rejection in the acting business and you can't get too emotional or worked up after every audition. Just move on to the next one and eventually all your hard work will pay off. Acting isn't for everyone, and it's a lot of hard work. You give up a great deal as a child actor; but for me, the rewards are worth the sacrifice.
Q: What is an unusual talent that most people don't know that you have?
Zach: I love to write, and I'm planning to write screenplays in the future.
Q: What is your favorite song right now?
Zach: "Stereo Hearts" by Adam Levine and Gym Class Heroes.
Q: What was your most embarrassing moment?
Zach: My family and I were seeing Diary of a Wimpy Kid at a local theatre. When the movie ended, my dad began cheering like crazy and announced to everyone in the theater that I was Greg. One guy even looked back at the screen, and then looked at me and said, "Nah, really????"
Q: How do your friends react to your stardom?
Zach: What's great about most of my friends is that they treat me as if I am just a regular kid. I've had most of the same friends since preschool and they don't pay much attention to my acting. We just hang out like everyone else.
Q: Do you have any pets?
Zach: My chocolate lab Bosco is the coolest dog you'll ever meet. He's crazy, hyper, and awesome. Everything he does is funny. When I let him outside to do his business, he grabs on to my leg with his paws because he's afraid to go out alone. He's a keeper though.
Q: What is the best book you ever read?
Zach: (clearing throat) Diary of a Wimpy Kid. Also Call of the Wild, The Giver, A Series of Unfortunate Events series, and the Harry Potter series.
Q: Food you could not live without?
Zach: Could ANYONE live without ice cream? If I could invent a new flavor of ice cream it would be Everlasting Vanilla. It never melts and tastes creamier and richer than regular vanilla.
Q: A perfect day would include?
Zach: Sleeping in and playing video games!
Q: What is one thing you wish everyone would do to make the world a better place?
Zach: Stay POSITIVE.
Q: What other book character would you like to play in a movie?
Zach: Harry Potter. Hey, you never know. REMAKE!
Ooh, I don't think anyone could ever replace Daniel Radcliffe as Harry, but Zach Gordon is still awesome! Leave a Comment to tell us what you think.
Images courtesy of 20th Century Fox


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JavaScript Tutorials is one of the best Quick reference to the JavaScript. In this JavaScript reference you will find most of the things about java script. JavaScript tutorial is classified into sections with examples. This tutorial is mainly for the beginners but experienced programmer can also learn many things from this JavaScript tutorial series.This JavaScript Tutorial will teach you the fundamentals of JavaScript programming, including the use of the core JavaScript objects and the syntax of the language like statements, conditionals, loops, functions, etc. You will also learn how to immediately put JavaScript to validate forms, calculate values, work with image rollovers and create other user interface.
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Travel Packages
If you are travelling from interstate or overseas to visit the Masterpieces from Paris exhibition, there are a range of travel packages available, including tickets to the exhibition, accommodation and transport.
Image above: Vincent van Gogh
Van Gogh's bedroom at Arles 1889
Musée d'Orsay, Paris
© RMN (Musée d'Orsay) / Hervé Lewandowski
Visiting Canberra
There's lots to see and do in the national capital. If you're visiting from interstate or overseas find out more information at visitcanberra.com.au/paris
Travel +
Qantas Holidays Travel Packages
Starting from $176
Qantas are one of the major exhibition partners and have put together a range of accommodation and flight deals from most capital cities. For more information and to book visit Qantas Holidays or call your local travel agent.
Countrylink Rail Travel Packages
Starting from $142
Countrylink Rail have developed a range of travel packages from Sydney including day trips and overnight accommodation options including a hosted tour to experience the exhibition.
- Daily services to Canberra
- A range of rail, exhibition and accommodation packages also available
Call 132 232 or visit countrylink.info
Accommodation only
From budget to luxury there are a range of exhibition accommodation and ticket packages available for your visit to Canberra.
To book accommodation packages and find out more about what to see and do in Canberra see www.visitcanberra.com.au/paris
Accor Hotels
Including two exhibition tickets and full buffet breakfast. See exhibition sponsor packages
Emile Bernard Madeleine in the Bois d'Amour 1888
Musée d'Orsay, Paris, purchased 1977
© RMN (Musée d'Orsay) / Hervé Lewandowski
© Emile Bernard. ADAGP/Licensed by Viscopy, 2009
Coach and ticket package
Starting from $55
Murrays Coaches have a return express coach and exhibition ticket package available daily from Sydney
Call Ph 13 22 51 or visit murrays.com.au
Other options
Flying here
The airport is a 10-minute drive (taxi or hire car) from the Gallery. Shuttle buses available to the city centre (also 10 minutes).
QANTAS: Direct daily from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide.
PH 13 13 13 or online Qantas.com.au
Virgin Blue: Direct daily from Melbourne, Brisbane, and Adelaide.
PH 13 67 89 or online VirginBlue.com.au
Tiger: Daily from Melbourne and Adelaide. TigerAirways.com.au
Brindabella: Direct weekday from Newcastle (NSW), and Albury (NSW). Sunday evening flights from Newcastle. PH (02) 6248 8711 or online BrindabellaAirlines.com.au
Car hire
Most hire car companies have at least one office on Canberra. Pick one up at the airport or from around town, the companies to contact include:
- AVIS Car rental PH: 136 333
- Airport Car Rental PH: (02) 6295 6155
- Canberra Hire Cars PH: (02) 6126 1577
- Europcar PH: 1300 13 13 90
Get the full details on getting to and around Canberra on the visitcanberra.com.au website.
Driving here?
See Google map
Geo code for GPS: -35.300096,149.136311
Pull in to the Canberra & Regional Visitors Centre at
330 Northbourne Avenue for details about what's going on in Canberra.
Murrays Coaches
Shuttles to and from Canberra each day from Sydney, Wollongong, South Coast and Goulburn.
Visit murrays.com.au for more info and bookings or Ph 13 22 51.
Greyhound Coaches
Services available from most centres Australia wide.
Visit greyhound.com.au for more info and bookings.


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And they are excited to participate as well. They even conducted special tastings to select the 6 oolong for this round.
MountainTea.com is a multi-generation grower and manufacturer of Taiwan oolong. This is an opportunity to sample direct from the grower!!! BTW, since they are a grower and seller, they wholesale and retail, thus their prices are extremely reasonable.
Below are Priscilla, Chicco, Christine, and Mao Sheng.
Chicco is mostly in the USA. Christine is his mother.
Chicco wrote:Mao Sheng is one of our tea masters and his father is one of Taiwan's top tea roasters. For the past 4 years, Mao Sheng has personally hand-grown, hand-processed, and hand-sorted the 1st place winning oolong tea in the prestigious Nantou County Oolong Championship.
Each participant will receive all 6 (six) selections, 10 grams each, 60 grams total. You know me, I was saying, "just do 6 greener oolong." You know me, right?
But good news, this is a really nice range of Taiwan oolong consisting of 2 greener, 2 medium, and 2 dark!!!
Here are the selections:
2 GREEN Oolong:
Spring 2012 Lishan http://www.mountaintea.com/collections/green-oolong/products/lishan-spring
Jade Oolong http://www.mountaintea.com/collections/green-oolong/products/jade-oolong
2 MEDIUM Oolong:
Medium Roast Dong Ding http://www.mountaintea.com/collections/medium-oolong/products/medium-roast-dong-ding-special-reserve
Medium Roast Taiwan Tie Guan Yin http://www.mountaintea.com/collections/medium-oolong/products/medium-roast-tieguanyin
2 DARK Oolong:
Imperial Pearl http://www.mountaintea.com/collections/dark-oolong/products/imperial-pearl
Bai Hao (Oriental Beauty) "Cake" http://www.mountaintea.com/collections/dark-oolong/products/formosa-bonita-cake
Without saying too much ... the one dark really blew me away ... it is worth the price of admission! I really enjoyed the first round of prelim tastings. It was eye opening. I am anxious to do another tasting with a higher ratio this time.