text:
Wii Sports Experiment, Results!
UPDATE 1: I gathered some of the media appearances I was involved with world wide. You can watch, listen, and read them here.
UPDATE 2: 3 independent studies from California State University, West Virginia, and Liverpool John Moores University have all concluded that the Wii is a viable workout:
"Kids burn 40% more calories"
"Through our testing it is clear that the motion sensor-controlled console can make an impact on a child's heart rate, energy expenditure and the amount of calories burned"
Read about the studies, here and here
Six weeks ago (December 3rd, 2006), I began what has become a huge obsession of mine. It is called the "Wii Sports Experiment" (Read my original announcement of this from Early December '06). I outlined a 6 week game plan for myself, the idea being that I would continue ALL normal activity and eating habits, and simply add 30 minutes of Wii Sports to my day. For the past month and a half, I've stuck to these guidelines very strictly.
For those of you not familiar with "Wii Sports", you can watch a video review of the game and find out what it's all about, here
I've been meticulously keeping track of the following for the past 6 weeks:
– Weight
– Calories burned per session/per game (via BioTrainer, thanks Nancy!)
– Body fat % (via a Digital Body Fat Caliper and a body fat scale)
– Heart Rate (at rest)
– Wii Fitness Age
– Additional Notes/Soreness
I found out about traineo.com too late into my experiment, but I've now started tracking my data on their website. Traineo is a free and simple website that gives you the motivation and support to reach your weight loss and fitness goals. I definitely recommend checking them out.
Before I get into to this, make sure to check out the original announcement of the experiment and read some of the comments, I took most of the suggestions and tips into consideration. I wanted to make sure that I gathered the most honest and accurate data I could.
The day before the experiment I decided to do some training with the Wiimote, enjoy:
Download Quicktime version
For most people this is their most anticipated category. To be honest, I was genuinely surprised by my end results, so I'll just get right to it. I lost 9lbs! Obviously this doesn't compare to Jared and the Subway diet, but I started out at a weight that I've been at for the past 2 years. My weight has really never fluctuated from 180lbs. in those two years, this makes the weight loss that much more of an accomplishment for me, considering I did not change anything I ate or did. Also, this experiment took place during the holiday season, where I ate holiday dinners like I normally would and drank what I normally would have drank. One last variable I had working against me was the winter season, I did not get any outdoor exercise that I normally would have got in the warmer months. (I do have to admit it has been a mild Philly winter so far)
I was pretty surprised by these shots, In the side shot photos I can see a noticeable reduction in my belly area, upper chest, and my neck/chin area. (and no, my ass didn't shrink, my pants are bunched up in the "before" photo). In the front facing shots I noticed an obvious visual difference in my body fat. My after picture reveals some abs that were hidden under those 9lbs. of flab. I also see my "love handle" area was reduced, smaller neck, smaller upper chest and better muscle definition. (granted I'm no body builder, but I do see some muscles in there, I think). These pictures were taken using the same lighting, same camera, same time of day, and I tried to stand in the same position. No "sucking in" or "tightening up", all four shots were taken under the same exact conditions as much as I could control.
Mini Update: I've read a few comments from people saying that the forward facing after shot looked "manipulated". I decided to upload a picture directly from my camera to put those in doubt, at rest. Here is an after photo with no color correction, cropping, contrast adjusting, etc… View it here.
To make sure I kept an accurate reading through out, I bought a professional scale and weighed myself 3 times each day for 6 weeks. I decided that I would weigh-in first thing in the morning, directly after work, and right before bed. I averaged each weigh-in per day and made a graph:
Click image to view it larger
BMI (Body Mass Index):
– Before: 25.2
– After: 24.0
According to the Heart Lung and Blood Institute, my BMI indicated I was overweight before I started and now I'm at a normal BMI. There is one catch though, your BMI is meant to broadly categorize populations for purely statistical purposes. So, its accuracy in relation to actual levels of body fat is easily distorted by such factors as fitness level, muscle mass, bone structure, gender, and ethnicity. So, take these readings with a grain of salt…
On a more obvious note, my waist (around the belly button/gut) went from 34.5″ to 31″.
For my experiment I stuck to four main games and my fitness test (which randomly chooses three games to test your "Fitness Age"). I did calorie experiments for the following, here is what I found after averaging 15 minutes of "aggressive" play during 3 different days.
Mini Update: I just wanted to address a couple of the concerns brought up about calories I burned during my tests. I was using this to measure calories, http://www.biotrainerusa.com. According the instruction manual, it uses a tri-axis accelerometer with a patented super-microprocessor, the BioTrainer is able to measure the inertia of your body's motion 40-times per second, process the data, and then accurately calculate energy expenditure (in either calories burned or activity units).
I used the BioTrainer three times per game, so I can't say the results of the burned calories are 100% accurate. I just reported what device measured. For instance, if I kept my waist relatively still (that's where I attached the BioTrainer) it may not count the calories of my arm motions as accurately as a more advanced heart monitored lab study.
– Tennis: Coming in a close second, Wii Tennis was the runner up in calorie burning activities for Wii Sports. I burned an average of 92 calories during a 15 minute period. Like most of my game playing during the experiment I played each game fairly aggressively and would perform full swings, move left and right, and not take any breaks.
– Bowling: One of my favorite Wii Sports games also clocked in at the lowest of the three games I tested for calorie burn. I burned an average of 77 calories during a 15 minute period. Again, I played aggressively, taken steps toward the lane and bowling with a full swing of the arm. No breaks were taken and I played the game fairly quickly.
– Boxing: The clear winner here. I burned and average of 125 calories during a 15 minute period. I would like to point out that I would punch with full power, move as if I were really dodging, and hoped/bounced around like a real boxer would.
– Baseball: I didn't get a chance to run the calorie test on baseball, no reason… I was just pressed for time and didn't get around to it, I love baseball don't get me wrong.
Here is a compilation of footage I shot throughout the six weeks:
Body Fat %:
For most fitness guru's and I guess the real question here, was "How much body fat did I lose?" The answer, a fairly significant amount. I took my body fat once a week (sometimes twice) using two methods, one was a Digital Body Fat Caliper and the other a body fat scale. I averaged the readings of the two and here are the results:
– Before: 19%
– After: 17.2%
According to The American Council on Exercise, I went from being in the "acceptable" category to being in the "fitness" category. This data really shows a lot of what I accomplished. I lost almost 2% of my body fat by doing nothing more than playing video games for an extra 30 minutes everyday.
My goal now (after the experiment has ended) is to get to 14% body fat, and I'll be doing that by continuing my experiment even after it's over. It's funny how once you start something that you HAVE to do everyday, you begin to miss it if you don't do it, even if you find it tiring or unpleasant. (Reminds of the kid in the book "How to eat fried worms" and how he continued to eat worms even after his bet was over.)
Heart Rate:
To be honest with you I only checked this when I started and when I stopped, so I don't think the results are as rock solid as some of the others, non-the-less I saw a slight decrease in my resting heart rate.
– Before: 82
– After: 68
Wii Fitness Age:
This really has nothing to with actual fitness, considering a lot of the games score your Wii Fitness Age based on skill more than your fitness or endurance levels, even so I started at a fitness age of 46 and then after that I never went below 30 for the entire six weeks. I hit the lowest Wii Fitness Age on January 4th, with an age of 20.
Some other quick Wii stats: I'm Pro in Tennis with a 1876 score, pro in Bowling with a score of 1345 (high score 257, should be 300, but my dogs got in my way!), pro in boxing with a score of 1120.
Additional Notes/Soreness:
I left this area open to just talk about my daily regiment and to address any other issues that may have come up.
One of those issues that has gotten a lot of media attention is something dubbed "Wii elbow", this seems to occur after your first few sessions of playing Wii Sports. I have to say I was not immune, my first 3-5 days were brutal. I was sore from shoulder to wrist, I even went as far as purchasing an Icy/Hot patch to sooth my pain. I remember sitting at work and just massaging my shoulder for hours, it really made me sore. I suppose this effect occurs when starting any new physical activity outside of your daily routine, so it's really not an amazing discovery or anything, just a testament to the physical strain Wii Sports actually puts on your body.
Another area grabbing A LOT of media attention is the phenomenon of the "flying Wii remote", dozens of websites sprung up showing off damages to brand new TV's, broken remotes, and all sorts of cuts and bruises. I considered most of these accidents to be the fault of the user and I sadly found out I was right. My girlfriend was on the couch behind me using my G4 PowerBook, I was in front of her bowling a decent game in Wii Bowling. I was getting a little too into it when I did a large back swing, came around the laptop and on my forward swing I smashed the laptop monitor with a great deal of force. The monitor's right hinge snapped off and the monitor went dead. Luckily, the monitor now comes back on, but it's only supported by the left hinge, which makes for one wobbly laptop. So, the lesson is to take heed of the warnings that are posted before each game of Wii Sports, make sure nobody or nothing is in your striking distance.
I'd like to think that my experiment proves one or two things:
A.) You get back whatever you put into something.
b.) Video games can and are a great way to have exercise and not even know you are burning calories.
To talk a little more about "A", I feel like a played Wii Sports everyday for 6 weeks in a semi-aggressive way. I moved my feet, I used full body motion, and I swung my arms to mimic the real thing. If you just stand there and make small moves or sit on the couch and play, I don't think you'll much if any results regarding exercise.
So, there you have it 21 hours of gaming, with some surprising results (for me). Feel free to ask me any questions or if you'd like to see some raw data.
Discuss this and other video game fitness in our forums, HERE.
It appears that this experiment (and the fans who were inspired to create their own workouts) may have inspired Nintendo to take advantage of the "buzz". Have a listen:
Reggie Fil-Aime (President of Nintendo of America): "Our objective with Wii Fit is all about expanding the audience and taking advantage of what our consumers are already doing with Wii Sports, they're using it to workout and lose weight this [Wii Fit] just drives it in a whole new way"
You may or may not have heard that I had a book in the works, I had a terrific literary agent, a great ghost writer and even a publisher! The only thing that stopped the book from going to the presses was the fact that the publisher wanted Nintendo's "blessing" in order to proceed (not an endorsement or sponsorship, just a letter from Nintendo saying it was OK to do the book).
After about 2 months in Nintendo's legal department they got back to me with a letter saying they can have nothing to do with book, Nintendo could not even provide a statement saying they would not sue. It was a big blow to all of us, and I can see why Nintendo wants to protect their intellectual property. It just makes me cringe when Reggie Fil-Aime (President of NoA) says that Nintendo's objective for Wii Fit is to "take advantage of what consumers are already doing with Wii Sports." It's almost a direct insult…
They did have a bunch of video of me at E3 on the big screens behind Reggie when they introduced Wii Fit, I guess that will have to suffice:
Never the less, I still love Nintendo and play the Wii/DS everyday, go Nintendo go!
PS. I still have kept all the weight off and be on the look out for the Wii Fit experiment starting April 2008!
June 1, 2012 at 11:40 am
"Wii U Release presents accurate news about wii u also referred to as wii 2. Nintendo will make the wii u available very soon. Visitors will be kept informed about the release of the wii u"
June 2, 2012 at 4:10 am
I am very much excited with it and looking forward for it's launching. I just hope that it will be a lot more entertaining and impressive just as to what they had before.
June 2, 2012 at 4:10 am
I am very much excited with it and looking forward for it's launching. I just hope that it will be a lot more entertaining and impressive just as to what they had before.
September 8, 2012 at 12:46 am
15 minutes of Batting Practice and 15 minutes of Working The Bag, under training mode in Wii Sports, works wonders.
November 30, 2013 at 7:45 pm
nice your site thanks for sharing love you all team good work keep it up
August 29, 2016 at 3:41 am
Good – I should definitely pronounce, impressed with your site. I had no trouble navigating through all the tabs and related information ended up being truly simple to do to access. I recently found what I hoped for before you know it at all. Quite unusual. Is likely to appreciate it for those who add forums or something, web site theme . a tones way for your client to communicate. Nice task.


text:
Skip to comments.Two reports clash on agents - study also fails to back what House members were told (Ramos/Compean)
Posted on 02/08/2007 10:21:37 AM PST by calcowgirl
A new Department of Homeland Security report about two Border Patrol agents convicted of shooting a drug smuggler directly contradicts key conclusions reached by the department's own investigator on the case.
The report also does not support assertions about the agents made by the department's Office of Inspector General to several members of Congress during a private meeting last fall.
The Report of Investigation, written Nov. 20 - 21 months after the shooting - and released Wednesday, concludes that nine other agents at the scene of the shooting did not know it had taken place and thus were not responsible for reporting it.
The report states that Border Patrol agents Ignacio Ramos and Jose Alonso Compean shot smuggler Osbaldo Aldrete-Davila, then tried to cover up the incident by failing to file a report. It also asserts that the other agents on the scene were not aware shots had been fired.
All the names - other than Ramos, Compean and Aldrete- Davila - of those at the shooting scene, as well as several pages of the Border Patrol's firearms policy, were blacked out in the report.
"Subsequently, the DHS OIG investigation found no evidence to suggest that (names redacted) had any knowledge of an assault on a BP agent, nor did (names redacted) have any knowledge of a reportable shooting incident ...," the report states.
But that finding directly contradicts a Department of Homeland Security memo written March 12, 2005 - less than a month after the Feb. 17, 2005, shooting - by Christopher Sanchez, the original investigating officer for the Homeland Security Inspector General's Office.
In the memo, one of several confidential Homeland Security documents about the incident obtained by The Sun's sister newspaper based in Ontario, the Inland Valley Daily Bulletin, Sanchez wrote that all the Border Patrol agents on scene, including two supervisors, knew about the shooting when it happened and failed to report it.
"Investigation disclosed that the following Border Patrol agents were at the location of the shooting incident, assisted in destroying evidence of the shooting, and/or knew/heard about the shooting: Oscar Juarez, Arturo Vasquez, Jose Mendoza, David Jaquez, Lance Medrano, Lorenzo Yrigoyen, Rene Mendez, Robert Arnold, and Jonathan Richards," Sanchez wrote.
Richards and Arnold were the supervisors on scene.
Further, Border Patrol firearms policy prohibits agents involved in a shooting from filing a written report on the incident, as reported earlier this week.
The policy requires that supervisors or investigators file the report within three hours of the incident.
"Ensure that supervisory personnel ... are aware that employees involved in a shooting incident shall not be required or allowed to submit a written statement of the circumstances surrounding the incident," according to the firearms policy.
The report released Wednesday also fails to support assertions made about Compean and Ramos by Office of Inspector General officials to four members of Congress during a private meeting in September.
At that meeting, OIG employees speaking on behalf of Inspector General Richard Skinner told the congressmen that the agents "were out to shoot Mexicans" the day they shot Aldrete-Davila, and that the smuggler posed no threat to them.
Nothing in the new report backs up either of those assertions.
On Monday, Skinner, in testimony before the House Homeland Security Appropriations subcommittee, admitted under oath that the congressmen were given false information about the agents by high-ranking members of his department.
Rep. John Culberson, R-Texas, one of the four congressmen, on Wednesday demanded the resignation of all investigators and Office of Inspector General officials who misled the congressmen.
According to Culberson's office, Elizabeth Redman, assistant inspector general for investigations under Skinner, made the allegations to House members and promised that evidence against the agents would be provided.
Inspector General Congresssional Liaison Tamara Faulkner also was at the September meeting on behalf of Skinner.
Neither Redman nor Faulkner could be reached for comment Wednesday.
Skinner also was questioned Wednesday at a House Homeland Security subcommittee on Management, Oversight and Investigations hearing by Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, who also was at the September meeting. Skinner apologized to McCaul for the OIG employees' unsupported statements about the agents.
McCaul has called for a congressional hearing into the matter.
"While I appreciated Mr. Skinner's accepting his office's mistakes, the fact remains that members of Congress were, at the very least, misled, and at most outright lied to," McCaul said. "Hearings need to be held about this, and more questions need answering."
TJ Bonner, president of the National Border Patrol Council, said the report released by the Inspector General's Office should not be trusted now that Skinner has admitted his office deceived the congressmen.
"This report is a transparent attempt to justify the government's inexcusable prosecution of two innocent law-enforcement officers," Bonner said. "Rather than being an objective recitation of facts, it is interspersed with innuendo, misrepresentations, and outright lies."
Compean and Ramos were convicted in March of shooting Aldrete-Davila in the buttocks, violating his civil rights and attempting to cover up their actions. They were sentenced to 12 and 11 years, respectively, in federal prison.
Aldrete-Davila was found to be driving a van with nearly $1 million of marijuana. He is suing the Border Patrol for $5 million.
Looks like these guys were nifonged.
Further, Border Patrol firearms policy prohibits agents involved in a shooting from filing a written report on the incident, as reported earlier this week.
The policy requires that supervisors or investigators file the report within three hours of the incident.
Not filing the report is the crux of the whole case against the Border Agents!
Sara Carter ping!
Wonder what elected office the D.A. is running for??
|U.S. retracts statements that agents were out `to shoot Mexicans'
|Posted by Kimberly GG to TomGuy
On News/Activism 02/08/2007 11:43:36 AM CST · 40 of 45
"Posts in other threads have indicated a close relationship between Prosecutor Sutton and Attorney General Alberto Gonzales."
Don't let them resign, FIRE THEM.
My gawd, read this.
This report really deserves something great for her reporting...
Culberson is great. Heard him for the 1st time last night on Savage.
Rep. Culberson on the Rush Limbaugh show with Roger Hedgcock now..
Chertoff has got to go..
Good for her, well deserved. I still worry for her safety.
I never thought he should have been confirmed and nothing that has transpired since has changed my conviction.
I swear they do a bet job at truth on the tv. The border agents need to be released from jail immediately. For the life of me; I can't understand how these two were arrested; much less put in jail.
Note that the original March 2005 investigative report may have simply been reporting what the agents told the investigator. We'd have to see the detais or depose Sanchez to ask if he did interviews with all of the agents at the scene, or based his investigation on interviews with Compean and Ramos.
That's why I'm not too interested in the investigative report memos -- they are simply a reporting of what people SAID about the case.
We need to see what people testified to under oath to understand why the jurors found them guilty. And to see if there are actual facts now indisputed which were incorrectly presented (or not presented) at the trial.
ah yes, HM and DP, two other cases where hysteria and hype far outstripped rational thought.
In one case we seem to have gotten lucky, as in the end when the facts were actually known, sufficient cause was found to support having HM withdraw her nomination, unfortunately at a high cost to Bush and to conservatives who had jumped the gun and given ammunition to the left to use on other court nominees.
BP was simply a disaster for conservatives. Jumping into bed with Schumer, who's only purpose was to make Bush look bad and get one of the ports for his union-thug democrat contributers. And what single bad thing has happened in this country since DP took over the ports? Where is the continued outcry over the threat to our way of life that was certain to follow if the deal went through?
As for the Dubai Ports deal, there was a legitimate security concern with handing over an American port to a company based in a part of the world brimming with anti-American hostility, even though Dubai is an ally. Would we have permitted a firm based in France or Italy, with their large Communist parties, to have operational control over a major port during the Cold War era? Or a Spanish, Swedish, or Argentinian firm, where the neutral regimes had fascist or pro-German leanings, to do so during World War II? The questions raised in this matter were legitimate.
Three jurors have apparently told reporters that the foreman "told them their verdicts had to be unamimous," and that they were "not allowed to be a hung jury."
Now IF this report is accurate, etc. etc. BTW, a local, highly experienced attorney tells us that scuttlebutt has it that the defense team was "out-lawyered" by the prosecution.
For example, in regard to the infamous, so-called "Subsequent Arrest" of the informant after he received immunity: it "officially" may have never happened. I.E., he was taken into custody, and released; never actually "arrested, or booked," so the prosecution felt they were technically correct in not disclosing this to the defense, and they followed up by successfully obtaining a gag order and the sealing of records.
Your tax dollars at work.
Twisting in the wind, hanging from their own ptard, the Bush administration withered and died.
Long live global tyranny.
Those people that lied should be fired immediately for lying to Congress
Also .... is this the dude that is a childhood friend of the drug muggler??
But that finding directly contradicts a Department of Homeland Security memo written March 12, 2005 - less than a month after the Feb. 17, 2005, shooting - by Christopher Sanchez, the original investigating officer for the Homeland Security Inspector General's Office.
Well, verdicts do have to be unanimous, and judges to frown on 'hung juries', which I guess could be interpreted by some to be pushing them, but usually all communication by the judge to the jury is vetted past all the lawyers first.
I'm not sure what the rules are about the way foreman manipulate jurors. IN the one case I was a juror, the foreman did a LOT of manipulation, and it took a lot of effort to overcome his bias. I would imagine that a strong person on a jury could sway people pretty easily.
But post-case recantations of jurors are discounted, because once they are tainted with media coverage and possibly inquiries from the defendant lawyers or supports of the defendant, you can't be certain they are still speaking strictly based on the evidence in the case.
Some jurors might be swayed by the absurd sentences for example to be fighting the charge that caused the long sentence (NONE of the reports I've seen about the jurors says whether they were protesting ALL the guilty verdicts, or just one, or a couple -- I'm not saying there isn't a report that does state that, just I haven't seen it).
Or they could actually be threatened, or bribed, to change their position. Or maybe they read other evidence or conjecture that wasn't allowed to be presented because of lack of foundation or because the judge ruled it was not germane. Those would be things to include in the appeal, which I presume is slowly winding it's way up through the system -- or maybe they are focusing on the media blitz.
If you had another 3 jurors who insisted on guilt but corroborated the pressure, that would be the first step to getting the "juror" issue on the front burner. I haven't seen any other jurors agreeing that there was such pressure, but again maybe there was a report and we didn't see it.
HM was sunk when she couldn't answer legitimate questions. If the reactionaries hadn't blasted her for weeks for random quotes out of context from years earlier, and screamed for senators to deny her a vote based on her lack of a known position on Roe V. Wade, she would have been rejected by the democrats and republicans based on the FACTS, and America wouldn't have gotten the idea that conservatives were simply looking for ideologues.
There was nothing wrong with those arguing against her because of the lack of a paper trail or familiarity with constitutional issues. But there was a lot of other things thrown out their in an attempt to sway the politics without regard to the facts.
It could be the same here. The facts could end up exonerating these two men, but right now it's mostly shrill rhetoric about open borders, pro-drug prosecuters, a corrupt attorney general, and a president who should be impeached. Hardly a conservative way of examining the facts and reaching a rational judgment.
Heard of any nuclear bombs going off at a port recently?
Where was the conservative examination of the facts, and final judgement BEFORE the arrest of these Border Patrol Agents?
'Guest workers' my azzz...
I've got that image up on my images page. I must have used it in one of my anti-illegal blog diatribes.
Apparently, judge's instructions were fine. The jurors reportedly say they were pressured by the foreman, who wouldn't let them hang and was intimidating. Some question about his connections as well.
Given the controversy now swirling around this case, and the inevitability of appeal, I am wondering why the two BP agents aren't (weren't) released on bail pending appeal.
Chris Sanchez was the DHS-OIG investigator in charge of the case.
Rene Sanchez is the BP Agent from Arizona who was the friend of the smuggler.
Both demonstrated questionable behavior throughout this case, IMO.
Rene Sanchez's mother knew the mother of the smuggler.
Do you know if the jurors reported to the judge that they were deadlocked?
The prosecutor did not foresee the firestorm this case would create. Had these two BP men been traditional criminals, the (perhaps overly) slick lawyering used to nail them would probably have been applauded by the very same people now in various stages of outrage (including me.)
Unfortunately, now Sutton is actually benefitting from the controversy and confusion swirling around the case! He, and the other agencies caught off base by the popular reaction, are rather cagily trying to control and direct the release of information, and disinformation, as much as they can. Evidently, they may have gone too far with it, though, by misdirecting congress.
That, and the original decision to prosecute, of course, are the most disturbing aspects of the whole tawdry affair. Guilty or innocent, these BP Agents should be free pending appeal, which I believe to be a necessary first step in reaching a workable deal.
Maybe the 5th Circuit will see it that way, as erton suggests. However, this ain't no 9th circuit... i.e. they are usually, I hear tell, rather pro-prosecutor.
I'm surprised the are not out pending appeal, but I don't know how often people are out pending appeal.
I remember Martha Stewart was not out while pending appeal, at the time I think the talking heads said the appeal had little chance so she figured it was better to get the sentence over with than wait a year under a cloud and then have to go to jail.
Well the district court judge isn't cutting Ramos any slack. He filed a pauper motion 3 weeks ago, basically saying that he was broke, his prior attorney's were continuing on a pro-bono basis, and that he didn't even have the funds to pay for the transcript to support an appeal.
Judge Cardone slapped him down and denied it on Wednesday.
Wow, did he do anything to PO the judge other than this campaign for the pardon by his supporters. Maybe the judge thinks he has access to funds through his supporters. Have they started a legal defense fund? It may be time to start if one hasn't started yet. I have mentioned this on prior threads.
Rumor has it, like everything else in this damned case, that the foreman would not permit them to report out. If true, could that be significant at this juncture?
IMHO, probably.
It would be helpful if the jurors at some point in the deliberations sent a note to the judge that they were deadlocked. It would even better that the court had to send the jury an instruction that is called a "dynamite charge." Without the above, it will be difficult to prevail on a point of error regarding the '3 JURORS'.IMHO.
It would be helpful if the jurors at some point in the deliberations sent a note to the judge that they were deadlocked. It would even better that the court had to send the jury an instruction that is called a "dynamite charge." Without the above, it will be difficult to prevail on a point of error regarding the '3 JURORS'.IMHO. I would like a stronger affidavit then I have seen. It still worth pursuing.
I have no idea if Cardone is PO'd and I don't know anything about her. I've pulled most all of the docs available on Pacer, and looked pretty closely at the docket. This judge cut no slack for the defense from day one. Defense motion, motion, motion... deny, deny, deny. Prosecution motion to exclude, motion to seal, motion to in limine.... grant, grant, grant. With so many sealed proceedings and docs, it's hard to tell what the heck is going on.
As to legal defense fund, see below:
(snip -- headers, etc.)
Comes now Ignacio Ramos, Jr., by and through his undersigned attorney, and moves this Court to grant this motion and find Defendant to be indigent and allow him to proceed in forma pauperis in this appeal, and would show the Court the following:
WHEREFORE, it is respectfully requested that this Court grant this motion, and allow Mr. Ramos to proceed in this appeal in forma pauperis, without payment of costs, including the transcript.
(snip... Signatures, etc. )
Doc # Filed Description 140 3/6/2006 Court's Charge/Instructions to Jury 141 3/6/2006 Jury Note (Sealed) 142 3/6/2006 Minutes - Miscellaneous -- 3/6/2006 Minutes - Miscellaneous 143 3/7/2006 Jury Note (Sealed) -- 3/7/2006 Remark (No Doc #) -- 3/7/2006 Remark (No Doc #) 144 3/7/2006 Jury Note (Sealed) -- 3/7/2006 Minutes - Miscellaneous 145 3/7/2006 Jury Note (Sealed) 146 3/7/2006 Minutes - Miscellaneous 147 3/8/2006 Jury Note (Sealed) 148 3/8/2006 Jury Verdict - Compean (Unredacted Jury Verdict sealed) 149 3/8/2006 Jury Verdict - Ramos (Unredacted Jury Verdict sealed) 150 3/8/2006 Minutes - Miscellaneous
Tiajuana Tony...?
Thanks for the info. And thanks for putting KB on the ping--I meant to do that but obviously forgot.
On another note, Ramos appealed to the 5th circuit the judges order denying his request to remain free on bond pending appeal. Any idea how long that process usually takes?
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Unlock the power of HDS with fewer button presses. Featuring the first touchscreen display created with anglers in mind, the Lowrance HDS Gen2 Touch Fishfinder/Chartplotters deliver the same award-winning benefits of the standard HDS Gen2 Series - now with easier-to-use, wide Touchscreens in 7-, 9-, and 12-inch sizes. The HDS-12 Gen2 Touch is also the largest HDS display Lowrance has ever created.
The fastest HDS units ever! The new Lowrance Gen2 HDS Touch Series Sonar/Chartplotters features a 2x faster microprocessor and double the memory of the HDS Gen1 models. Also outfitted with new cosmetics and Lowrance's revolutionary StructureMap capabilities (optional), the Lowrance HDS Gen2 unit still delivers the great high-definition Broadband Sonar and state-of-the-art charting technology that anglers love.
The newest Lowrance HDS Gen2 innovation - Lowrance StructureMap - overlays real-time StructureScan images onto charting displays, resulting in a unique underwater viewing perspective that helps you more quickly pinpoint the location of structure and fish. With HDS Gen2 models networked to the optional StructureScan sonar imaging module, StructureMap allows you to easily overlay StructureScan images on top of traditional charts to provide a real-time view into underwater structure and its precise location on the map. It also allows you to create maps for review on or off the water. Compatible with Lowrance Enhanced Basemap, pre-loaded Insight cartography and Insight HD, plus Navionics and other third-party mapping options. (All Gen2 units are StructureMap capable, but require purchase of StructureScan bundle or separate StructureScan module).
Lowrance StructureScan provides you with the ability to see three different views of the same underwater object - left, right (SideScan), and DownScan imaging for the highest level of viewing detail ever achieved. Submerged timber looks exactly like timber, and stumps, shipwrecks or whatever else is below the surface appears in unprecedented clarity and detail. (All units are SturctureScan capable, and select units include StructureScan bundle).
Featuring an exclusive, high-resolution 6.4"/16.3cm 16-bit color SolarMAX PLUS TFT Display for exceptional viewing capabilities, the display is also high-bright and sunlight viewable with LED backlighting with split screen and three-window presentation capabilities.
The internal, high-sensitivity GPS+WAAS Antenna delivers ultra-fast time-to-signal lock, and features built-in Lowrance Insight USA. Insight USA combines inland and coastal coverage areas of Lake Insight and Nautic Insight. This includes US inland mapping of nearly 5,000 freshwater lake maps (including the Great Lakes) with life-like perspective of bottom structure and topography, as well as, superior life-like view of coastal bottom structure with detailed coastal and offshore depth contours, plus navigation aids for the entire US coastline. Also compatible with optional Lowrance Lake Insight HD, Lake Insight PRO, Nautic Insight HD, Nautic Insight PRO, Navionics Platinum, Navionics HotMaps Platinum, Fishing Hot Spots PRO and legacy LakeMaster Promaps. The GPS/Navigation unit also allows you to store up to 5,000 waypoints, 200 routes and up to 10 trails with 12,000 points/trails.
The revolutionary, built-in Broadband Sounder is capable of seeing fish in, around and even through structures, at great depths and at high speeds. Serving as the vital link between the transducer and your HDS display, the Broadband Sounder uses a highly-sensitive digital filtering process, capturing targets that are often missed by less powerful sounders as sharp, crisp images.
The 83/200 kHz dual-frequency Skimmer transducer sends out a maximum of 250-watts Peak to Peak (32W RMS; 30,000W Peak to Peak analog equivalent) sonar power, down to a maximum depth of 5,000 ft.
The entire Lowrance Gen2 HDS Touch Series Units are also sealed and waterproofed with built-in Backup Memory capabilities for exceptional durability. Each Lowrance Gen2 HDS Touch Fishfinder/GPS Chartplotter also includes additional features and available upgrades.
Share sonar, StructureScan, 3G and 4G radar with high speed ethernet. Optional Fuel and engine management, faster-update external GPS antenna, livewell temperature monitoring and more with Lowrance NMEA 2000 connectivity.
Two-Year Limited Warranty
Parts included:
-HDS Unit Head
-Skimmer Transducer
-HDS Bezel & Card Door
-Dust Cover
-Gimbal Bracket
-Cut-out Template/Flush Mount Kit
-Bracket Knobs
-Power/Data Cable
-Connector Caps
|Model #
|StructureScan Transducer
|HDS-7 Gen2 Touch
|HDS-7 Gen2 Touch SS
|HDS-9 Gen2 Touch
|HDS-9 Gen2 Touch SS
|HDS-12 Gen2 Touch
|HDS-12 Gen2 Touch SS
Please Note: This item is not available for order outside of the United States.
0 Colors
More From Lowrance Electronics
Customer Reviews
Comments: I wouldn't own another chart plotter. The screen doesn't get dirty under normal conditions and it's so much faster to use. Scroll back through and mark a way point with no buttons? Sign me up. I want to put one on my hobie now.
From: James: NC 7/22/15
Comments: Recently bought 2 different colors of the 3.75, and they came with different size split rings. Not impressed. Sticking with KVD's.
From: Michael: Ripley, TN 1/13/15
Comments: Wouldn't ever go back, so easy and fast to navigate. Touch screen is the way to go. How many of you guys who have touch screen smart phones have gone back to old school button phones?
From: Chris
Comments: Well just for the people who are wondering about fingerprints and smudges left on the screen, there is a two pane screen one of course is the screen that picks up your touches and the outer pane is what your fingers touch. The coating on the outer screen prevents glare from light and fingerprints. Basically when it is on you can't see finger prints and smudges.
From: Jake: Ohio
Comments: Got my new unit up and running, night and day better than my old birds. The down and side imaging is way better than my humminbird units every had. They make gloves that work with touch screens so no need to worry about freezing those pixies when its cold.
From: David: Raymore, MO
Comments: My friend has one of these and i have the humminbird 998sci and i feel having a touch screen is not better in any way, rather worse... still a good fishfinder and recomend it to any1 that likes cleaning.
From: Dave: South Africa
Comments: What about us in Canada fishing in the fall for big smallmouth on Lake Erie or fishing in general in the fall/winter... you need skin to touch the screen, and most people wear gloves.
From: Canada
Comments: Most fishermen clean the hands in the water after handling a fish, so it is not really a problem. Have the Simrad series myself and it works flawlessly and touching the screen is not a problem. Sure it gets a little dirtier, but the pros by far outweighs the cons in this particular case. I would not want anything but a touchscreen! :)
From: Stephen: Denmark
Comments: I have a feeling that these touch screens will get very dirty through a day of fishing. Even the traditional non-touch units get very dirty without touching the screen. I dont have one, but these are just my pre-thoughts.
From: Alec: MA


text:
Your shopping cart is empty!
PSV Eindhoven 2004-05 home black short.Features embroidered Nike swoosh in grey and embroidered team crest with elastic waist,inner liner and inner draw cord. White piping on both sides.100% polyester.
Soccerplus first opened in 1994. We were one of the first soccer websites to hit the webView more
Address: 1640 E. Washington Blvd.
Pasadena, Ca 91104, USA
Phone: 1-800-945-7291
Get Direct


text:
Skip to comments.McAfee virus Or anti-virus
Posted on 01/31/2013 3:40:12 PM PST by JimSEA
I'm having fits uninstalling McAfee and replacing it with Norton. McAfee had become just too irritating to the point of shutting down some downloads from Amazon (but not all, no consistency there). It kept giving me pop ups at seemingly random times. Now, McAfee just shut down everything when Norton tried an uninstall. Anyone have similar problems?? I'm using my blessed Apple IPad now.
I hate them both. I use avast
Got rid of both of them years ago . . . constant pains in the obamas. I use ESET at work and AVG at home. No problems and I'm thrilled. Had trouble a few years ago getting Norton the hell out of my computer though.
I haven't used McAfee for years, so I don't know what the current problems are. You might do a google search for "uninstall McAfee." It would depend on your version of windows and also of McAfee. There is apparently a McAfee removal tool that you can get from McAfee itself, but I don't know how well that works.
Good luck.
I use AVG.
I use Kaspersky and Super Antivirus. Most others protect pretty poorly and shut down your computing experience.
Years on on an XP computer, I installed McAfee anti-virus. I later tried their firewall.
As updates became bloatware and slowed the computer ridiculously, I 'uninstalled' both.
Every few months, I would get a pop-up from McAfee asking me to re-try their software. I thought I had scrubbed everything McAfee from the computer. I had even gone through the registry file. Still, I would get the pop-ups, until I had other problems and had to reformat and reinstall XP.
Since then, I would never let anything McAfee on my computer(s), even though my cable ISP offers McAfee security software free to users.
Now, on my Win7 laptop and desktop, I stay with Windows Security Essentials and Windows 7 firewall. They play nice with other software and do not seem to bog down my computers.
AVG Free is great. If you like it, get the paid version. Jumping from McAfee to Norton is jumping from the frying pan into the fire.
I am using Kaspersky, no problems to date. I ahve also heard that ESET is a good one.
I would just throw both in the can. Plenty of options out there, most (if not all) free to use, unless you want the deluxe package. AVG is good, I use Avira, heard good things about Avast . . . .
All, and I mean ALL, anti-virus programs are a drag on the speed. So I never use them. I bought a used desktop (Dell) on eBay for $75. I use it exclusively for surfing the net, such as now. If some one hacks into it, there is absolutely nothing on it of value.
My other computer is used strictly for my bank & broker. I never read emails or visit any other site on it.
I have a cheap switch to use a single monitor between the 2 computers. So my desk is not crowded.
If my surfing computer gets slow, I just reload the windows OS and copy my saved favorites for the browser and I am back in business. Usually 2 to 3 years before I do this. Then it runs as fast as when new and virgin.
In 15 years of operating like this I have not had a single problem to worry about.
Just get Microsoft's Security Essentials. It's free and easy.
Second the motion to ditch both of them. AVG Free and AdAware have worked for me for years. Dell installed Macafee on my latest desktop and I just let it expire and remain in place with AVG installed over it. Every now and then it pops up to warn me it's out of date and wouldn't I like to buy an extended license? I bop it on the head and it goes away.
I switched all of our PCs to MS Security Essentials - Norton and McAffee went into the scrap bin forever.
Me too. I use Windows Security Essentials and Malwarebytes, very compatable and no interference (slow down) with other programs even when editing HD video. Norton sucks. A computer programmer once told me that Norton gets into everything and your computer slows way down.
Try IObit uninstaller.
Some suggestions.
One Anti-virus program won't do the job.
Only one of your AV programs should be running in 'real-time'.
The second should be loaded but not selected for 'real-time protection'.
The third should be loaded and used to scan when you need it.
McAfee and Norton are pains in the butt, and CPU. And, as others have noted, hard to get rid of.
AVG and AVAST are OK, but seem to suck up too many resources and bug you about updates. AVG and AVAST also leave behind some 'elements' after you UNINSTALL THEM.
Microsoft Security Essentials is great, and automatically downloads new definition files.
Find at least one, if not two other AV programs to put on your computer that allow you to control whether they run in 'real-time' and you should have great protection.
Since there are hundreds of new (malwares/viruses/etc) created EVERY DAY, it helps if you consistently do SCANS with ALL AV softwares you pick to use, on at least a weekly basis.
Thanks to all!! I'm trying avira.
I used AVG for years but over the lsst few months I kept getting the fake FBI/PayPal scam. I switched to Avast and have not had any problems since. I also use Malwarebytes and Super Anti-Spyware. I have a pretty powerful PC so I don't worry about any load put on it by my security software.
What does Malwarebytes add that Windows Security Essentials doesn't have?
McAfee provides a free standalone uninstaller that works quite well.
mcafee uninstaller download
to find it
Anti-virus programs can be as bad as the viruses themselves. If you have the ability to save files and reformat the hard drive, I would do that.
Most of the machines I clean have McAfee on them. I'm not a big Microsoft fan but their Security Essentials runs fine and is free. Throw in the paid version of Malwarebytes and you get good protection.
If you're using a windows platform computer:
disable the mcafee service(s) in msconfig
then reboot the computer so that it doesn't load
then try uninstalling mcafee.
If the uninstall doesn't go right it could leave entries in the registry. Well, even if the uninstall goes smoothly programs still leave orphaned entries in the registry.
If all else fails you can always re-install the OS.
Thanks for that.
I use only Avast. The best anti-virus on he internet, and it's free!
I second kaspersky. Used it 4 years.
Tried bitdefender but didn't like.
I use Webroot on my mac and winders machines. Very small footprint and with online coupons, fairly inexpensive.
I run ESET and my computer shows no sign of slower speed from it.
Try Revo Uninstaller to get rid of McAfee, Norton, etc.
I took your advice several years ago, and have been very happy with it.
I winds up that the guy who started McAffee is a real nutcase...and his software shows it.
I've had both and found Norton not very useful so I flushed it.
There was also the time when a Norton update actually corrupted the program, and the "customer service" drones in India tried to charge me $39.99 to fix a huge problem that they caused with their bugged download.
Since the last time I installed Norton years ago, I am convinced it actually is a virus.
I would not install it again for any reason. It was next to impossible to uninstall and interfered with so much.
I agree. AVG is very nice. It has changed but it is still effective and sits quietly in the background (when configured to do so). I am virus free since starting to use it these last 10 years.
I should have added, I've been happy with Microsoft Security Essentials for a few years.
I've been using Avast for several years, I don't want Norton or McAfee anywhere near my computer.
All you need is Microsoft Security Essentials, but it's good to have a backup. I use Malwarebytes.
Heh, I just posted (#39) and then scrolled the earlier replies and noticed you have the same setup as I have. I've had zero problems, and I agree that the two programs are very compatible and there is no computer slowdown with both going at once.
As others have stated, it is nice to have a backup. A computer programming pro advised me to do this. Malwarebytes catches things that Windows (Microsoft) Security Essentials doesn't and vice versa. I have seen it with my own eyes.
I agree, they are both great anti-virus programs. The problem I had in the past with Norton and McAffe was slow down. Not with these two programs.
Ping for reference
I, too, had McAfee and then Norton on my computer because they were offered "free" with Comcast.
Which I no longer have, either.
Several AVs have self-protections to prevent uninstall and need helpers. McAfee has been tough to get rid of for years.
I decided to go with the Microsoft Windows Defender a year or so ago and haven't have any problems. I surf safe and don't take a lot of chances. Used to use AVG and it worked fine. Stay away from McAfee and Norton if you are concerned about using too many resources.
I used to use Kaspersky, but their scores are lower than Bitdefender. Do you use Super Antivirus in conjunction with Kaspersky and why?
I used Super Antivirus before I got Kespersky. Norton was replaced by Kaspersky. They don't conflict. Norton and Macafee bogged me down.
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.


text:
Made of solid brass these traditional designs will enhance any kitchen
"These reviews are from our Customers who have purchased from our store. We find this provides more useful information in aiding your purchasing decision."
Fast service. Product exactly as described.
Got what I wanted when I wanted at a price I could handle. What else could I ask for?
things went as I hoped they wood
Online shipping info was never updated from original, even though parts shipped late.
It took a little longer to arrive than I expected, but it did arrive. Also it wasn't quite clear that there were 2 hinges per order. I ordered 2 because my door has 2 hinges , well the sent me 2 sets. Oh well I learned the hard way.
Made of solid brass these traditional designs will enhance any kitchen
Note: You can find a link to the compare item tool at the top right of the website.


text:
When the Babolat Pure Drive first hit US shores in the mid-nineties it gained a huge following for its signature blend of power and control. if there was one criticism of the Pure Drive family in those early days it was that the racquets felt somewhat hollow.
As the Pure Drive family matured, Babolat introduced technologies to address the hollow feel. First came the Woofer technology to enhance string interaction and reduce vibration. Next, Babolat developed the Cortex dampening system.
In this latest generation, Babolat has introduced Graphite Tungsten to the Pure Drive line, again a move to improve feel and stability. The playtest team went out to see how this newest Pure Drive stacked up against its predecessors. Here is what our team had to say about the Standard and Plus versions of the Pure Drive GT.
From the baseline, our testers were impressed with the familiar power and control, as well as the more solid feel of this latest Pure Drive.
After dialing in the power, Kana enjoyed the feel from the baseline. "The power level of the Pure Drive GT is a bit higher than what I'm used to. My shots were flying out at first, but once I gained an understanding of how the racquet's power and projection worked with my strokes, my groundstrokes felt solid. With its 16x19 string pattern I was able to put more spin on the ball, landing it deep into the backcourt. It felt great at the baseline."
The consistency of the Standard pleased Jackson. "Despite the stiffness rating of this racquet, it actually felt relatively soft from the baseline. I could feel the strings cradling the ball, strike after strike. My consistency was more noticeable than it was with the Plus model. I felt confident that I could keep a rally going while still hitting deep, heavy balls. Hitting winners was a little more difficult to do with the Standard, but that was almost a moot point because I was able to create angles with enough velocity to run my opponent off the court. This either forced an error or set up an easy put-away into the open court. And though I could feel the stiffness in the racquet, the feeling when striking the ball wasn't nearly as jarring as its stiffness rating might suggest."
Sean was impressed with the solid feel. "The blend of power and control offered was exactly what I was looking for when it came to hitting groundstrokes with this stick. The open string pattern offered great access to spin and allowed me to hit through the ball while keeping it in the court. I was very impressed by the solid feel I got from either wing."
Noticing a more solid feel from the previous version was Chris. "From the first hit, I noticed a more solid feel from this latest Pure Drive. I think Babolat has done a good job of making this stick more solid and comfortable feeling over the years - first with Woofer grommets, then with Cortex and now with the GT technology. I found that same level of power and spin that impressed me with previous versions. As usual with a Pure Drive, this one felt exceptional, both when pushing forward with aggression and when having to find depth and pace from a defensive position. During rallies, I was able to control the depth, direction and spin of my shots with little effort. I've always enjoyed the maneuverability of the Pure Drives and felt I could add some weight to this one without compromising its fast feel."
Spencer agreed, "I was extremely happy with the feel and results I got from the baseline. The Standard GT offered a stable feel with good power. I was also getting a good amount of spin to boot. There was a good combination of depth and directional control. It performed similarly to the previous Cortex version, but it seemed to have a more solid feel. I felt confident hitting off both wings, while being able to mix up the topspin and slice on the backhand side. Being a baseliner, I will have to contemplate putting this racquet in my bag. That's how good it felt to me."
The Pure Drive GT Standard offered plenty of maneuverability while maintaining good punch and stability.
Enjoying the mobile feel was Chris. "I was impressed by the fast feel of this racquet at net. I felt like I could react very quickly to the ball and also change the direction of the racquet face to quickly find an angle. Although this will undoubtedly be very popular with baseline players, I found this to be a dynamite doubles stick. Its maneuverable feel and solid power made it great for quick exchanges at net and when I had to pick up tough mid-court volleys."
Kana enjoyed the midplus headsize. "The overall feel felt solid and comfortable at the net. I love the 100 sq. in. head size when it comes to volleys. It seems I am more consistent, and I have a heightened confidence level in executing touch shots with sharp angles."
Feeling he could hit volleys with ease was Jackson. "Volleys were as effortless as spreading soft butter over a warm piece of toast. Consistency off the ground wasn't the only area where it excelled. Volleys felt natural, and they were coming off the face of the racquet smoothly, with very few off-center shots. The maneuverability of the standard length was no doubt a big contributor to the ease of volleying."
Sean found good punch and forgiveness. "Volleys felt great with this newest version of the Pure Drive. I was able to punch volleys deep in the court, and even off-center hits were able to find their mark. With the generous sweet spot and lightweight frame, this racquet proved great for reflex volleys, although I felt that a more headlight balance would definitely improve maneuverability at net."
This racquet boosted the confidence of Spencer. "I'm not the most comfortable guy at net, but this stick certainly helps me feel more confident when I am there. The off-center volleys I hit did not lose too much oomph and stayed on the path intended more often than many other racquets. Hence, it makes me look a little better than I actually am when it comes to volleying. There are other sticks that may have better feel, but I prefer this one as it has a good combination of stability, punch and forgiveness."
Good power was evident when serving with this racquet. Our testers also noted that access to spin was easy to come by, offering good control and consistency.
Finding a healthy dose of power on first serves was Sean. "I found great feel on serves with this racquet. I definitely found some added pop on my first serves and was impressed that I could hit bigger serves than normal without sacrificing control. When hitting second serves, I could generate a lot of spin that helped greatly with control and placement of the shot."
Chris was in the same boat. "Serving and big groundstrokes are what it's all about for me hitting with the Pure Drive GT. On serve I was able to generate a lot of pace and spin with little effort. I had fun mixing up serves with pace and spin. Most of the time I was able to start off the point aggressively, no matter if I were hitting a first or a second serve."
The racquet's control pleased Spencer. "I felt the Standard offered excellent spin and control. It does have nice power, though it certainly wasn't as substantial as the Plus version. I enjoyed the consistency and placement, then in turn, the confidence it bred. I felt I was able to gamble a bit more on first serves because I could rely on a more effective second serve."
Kana was thrilled with the combination of power and spin. "Spin is the first thing I noticed when serving with this racquet. I could get more pop on my first serves while my second serves gained more spin. The power level felt great when I was going for a big serve."
The extra power didn't take a toll on the shoulder of Jackson. "Even though I couldn't get the same amount of mustard on serve with this racquet, it still lived up to its Pure Drive name. I was able to hit booming serves, even without the added benefit of the extra length of the Plus model. It was even easy on my shoulder, which I sometimes have issues with when it comes to serving; the combination of the balance point and weight matched well with my service motion to produce a smooth rotation that resulted in devastating power."
The characteristics of this racquet offered a lot of variety for our testers' service returns.
Spencer loved the variety of effective options. "Return of serve is where this racquet really shined for me. This stick allows so many options; from chipping back to coming through with a penetrating shot and being able to control direction. When letting the racquet do the work, my returns felt very solid, particularly on the backhand side. I was able to hit topspin backhands that were more effective than usual, as they seemed to dive down over the net. This was particularly effective for returning against a serve and volley player. I was very happy and confident when returning."
Finding plenty of power and spin was Chris. "I loved this racquet on returns. I was able to find lots of pace and spin, which opened up a lot of the court. I had plenty of control and was able to return aggressively a lot of the time. I also enjoyed the level of power I was finding when blocking back serves. Both the depth and direction of my shots remained predictable."
Kana was impressed with how aggressively she could return. "For big serves I was able to react with a quick punch to execute an aggressive return. On slower paced serves, I could take my time and use the spin this stick produced for a nice, deep return."
In agreement was Jackson. "As long as I made sure my feet weren't cemented to the court, return of serve was a pretty reliable shot. Though I couldn't get the same power on the return as I did with the Plus model, directing the ball was as easy as it was off the ground. The maneuverability of the racquet made preparation almost like a reflex, without me noticing what the racquet was doing until it made its move. Even though I didn't hit as many winners or force as many errors off the serve, I was able to start the point off with an aggressive shot, making the setting up of the point much easier."
Sean was able to return deep into the court. "This racquet performed better than I had expected on serve returns. With its lighter weight I expected a less than solid return. However, I was pleased to find that even on big serves I could return the ball deep in the court and give my opponent problems. Even when I was forced to slice returns back, I was able to control them and play a solid shot to begin the point."
In this latest edition of the Pure Drive, our team found the addition of Graphite Tungsten to provide an even more solid feel from all areas of the court. From the baseline, this racquet offered a nice combination of power, depth and good access to spin. The 100 square-inch headsize was forgiving at net, while providing solid stability and punch. Serving was a snap, as it responded well to various types of serves. The performance didn't discriminate between a hard flat serve and a spinning kicker out wide. All in all, the Pure Drive GT Standard offered a solid feel with good spin and control, while offering plenty of power when called upon. Its versatility can suit a variety of levels, making it effective for intermediate players up to the professional ranks.
|The "Likes" of the racquet.
Chris "I liked the spin, power and maneuverability the most. This was such a versatile racquet. I felt comfortable with it from all areas of the court."
Kana "The added spin to my shots was an offensive and defensive plus!"
Jackson "The consistency off the ground was reassuring, and it added a level of confidence to my game that seemed to grow exponentially."
Sean "Overall, the racquet felt solid from all areas of the court and didn't disappoint in any one department. Being a baseline player, groundstrokes were by far my favorite hit with this racquet, especially with the added stability from the GT technology."
Spencer "The solid feel and the balance of performance from all areas of the court."
|The "Dislikes" of the racquet.
Chris "None really. I would have liked it more with some extra weight, but then I'd just go with the Roddick version, which is heavier."
Kana "The Graphite Tungsten helped the overall frame feel more solid. Nevertheless, the Pure Drive still felt a little on the hollow side."
Jackson "No huge dislikes with this racquet. If anything I would've preferred to be able to hit more winners from the baseline."
Sean "Some added maneuverability could have improved my volleys and some added weight might have been helpful for returning heavy serves. Other than those minor adjustments, I loved the racquet and would highly recommend that players give this frame a try."
Spencer "I didn't have any."
|Babolat Pure Drive GT Scores
(Scores are determined by averaging individual play test scores)
The extra half-inch in length provided more power than its Standard counterpart, resulting in better put-away potential.
The heavier swingweight of the GT Plus was a better fit for Chris. "The swingweight of this racquet was better suited to me than the standard length version. I was finding a little more plow through, and the racquet felt even more solid. I had no issues with the length of the racquet when I had time to set up for the ball, but this one isn't as whippy as the Standard version. When I was set up I was finding more power and spin on all of my groundstrokes. I thought this was an especially dynamite stick when I stepped inside the court and was looking to finish the point with one shot."
Kana also opted for the GT Plus. "Comparing the GT Plus to the GT, the specifications of the GT Plus fit me better. As the balance of the GT is 4 points headlight, the 6 pts head light of the GT Plus is more comfortable for me to swing. With this difference I can maneuver the stick a little better when it comes to certain angle or flick shots. One of my favorite backhand shots is a flick-of-the-wrist to produce a sharp angle shot to the service box. This stick really let me execute that shot in an aggressive fashion."
Expectations were met for Jackson. "Being a very solid racquet from the baseline, it was everything I had hoped for in the new Pure Drive series. It had much better feel than the first generation of cortex. I hit the pre-cortex racquet side by side with the new GT model and found that the new model is truer to the original Pure Drive than the first cortex model was. Feel was my biggest complaint when the cortex technology was introduced into the market. While trying to reduce the vibrations of the frame, Babolat effectively dampened most of the feel on the racquet. This new GT edition flaunts the cortex technology while improving feel from the previous generation of frames. The Graphite Tungsten material seems to transmit feel from the stringbed without transmitting the delinquent vibrations. With that being said, for the original Pure Drive junkies out there, this new stick didn't have quite the same solid, plow-through feel the original did. It's separate but equal -- getting similar results off the stringbed but with a slightly different feel. The power was still there and the extra half-inch definitely helped put the balls a little deeper into the court. With the light-feeling swingweight, I was able to generate the topspin needed to land the ball within inches of the baseline."
Sean felt the extra length improved his groundstrokes. "Luckily I was able to find the range. The added length actually improved my groundstrokes compared to the Standard version. Hits had a great, solid feel at impact and the feeling of the extra swingweight really increased the amount of power and spin I could generate. On the defensive end, I was able to run down a few extra balls and use a good slice shot to keep myself in the point."
Finding more consistency and power on his forehand was Spencer. "I really enjoyed the solid feel, as well as the power. As with most extended racquets, I sometimes feel I get handcuffed from time to time, feeling the racquet is too long. The forehand was my preferred shot with this one, as I felt I was more consistent with more power. On the backhand side I had consistency issues coming over the top, which is no surprise, as I've had this issue in the past with other extended length racquets. On the flip side, I enjoyed hitting the slice backhand and felt I could hit it pretty effectively."
Our playtesters were in agreement that the GT Plus offered superb punch and depth on volleys.
Sean liked the extra coverage he got at net. "Volleys definitely proved to be easier with the added length, and I found I had greater coverage, which was great for stretch volleys and overheads. With the added leverage, volleys had some extra punch when I needed it while still offering some good control and touch. Anything into the body was a little more difficult to deal with, though."
Finding extra punch was Chris. "I was getting some extra punch on volleys at net thanks to the added length of this racquet. There was enough control to help me find my targets, and I was volleying well. I didn't get tangled up by the added length and felt pretty comfortable with this racquet at net."
Kana felt more sure of herself when volleying. "I felt more confident with the half-inch at the net. With my height, lobs tend to be a consistent play when I come to the net. The half-inch and headlight balance really let me snap up to the higher shots and execute overheads. The touch of angles and the punch of deep volleys felt great."
Increased feel impressed Jackson. "It performed almost exactly as I expected. This frame had a little bit of increased feel when compared to the old model, allowing for hitting dying drop shots and deep, penetrating volleys that skidded inches above the court. The Plus model really showed its extra length at the net with a slight decrease in maneuverability. I noticed there were stretch volleys that I was just a fraction of a second slower getting the racquet to when compared to the Standard."
Spencer enjoyed the power. "Once again, the put-away power was nice. The racquet is pretty maneuverable and the extra length seems to help get the stringbed on more balls, but I was more consistent with the Standard."
The leverage created with the extra length along with the specs makes this stick a weapon when serving.
Feeling this is the best serving racquet he's tested was Jackson. "Out of all the racquets I've tested, I still haven't found a racquet that puts up as many aces or serves as well as this one. It felt unfair to whoever was on the other side of the net. With a last minute pronation of the wrist, I could spin the ball out wide or flatten the ball down the center, put a kicker right into the body or put enough beef on it to get the ball above the shoulders of my opponent. Second serves went deep, with enough spin to make the return very difficult."
In agreement was Spencer. "Serving was my favorite aspect of this stick. I felt I could get the ultimate combination of power, action and placement. This was one of my favorite serving sticks of the year, if not the favorite. "
Chris especially liked the kick he obtained with this racquet. "The power and spin I found on serve was addictive. I felt like I was ripping the ball, and I was finding fewer serves were coming back. I loved the kick I could get on the ball with this stick. I had one of our test racquets strung up with Kirschbaum's Spiky Shark co-poly, and the spin from this set-up was awesome. What a fun stick to serve with."
Gaining a more offensive serve was Kana. "Considering my whopping 5'1" height, One of the weaker aspects of my game are serves. With the added half-inch, the GT Plus allowed me to reach higher while snapping up at the ball. I gained more spin and pop on my serves, creating a more offensive shot."
Sean felt the biggest asset of the extra length was on serves. "By far the biggest improvement with the added length was on serves. I found a ton of extra power and spin, which was great for aggressive serves. I felt confident that I could go for some bigger serves and even use my second serve as a weapon if needed. I did find that my first serve percentage increased, and that I could rely on my second serve as well. This racquet seemed to lend itself to serve and volley tactics, where a big serve and a good volley could end the point quickly."
This racquet helps create aggressive returns with plenty of pace and depth.
Chris liked the depth and pace he was getting. "The level of power was solid on returns. The racquet felt like it had more mass when in motion compared to the Standard, and I felt like I was getting more pace and depth with less effort. I felt like I could maneuver the racquet well and was confident on returns."
Happy with the variety of returns she could produce was Kana. "This stick felt comfortable on returns. Whether it be a quick punch or defensive play, it seemed to play into any shot I wanted to produce."
Jackson was thrilled with the power. "The extra length made stretching for wide serves a breeze. With the extra power, all I had to do was make sure that the stringbed intercepted the path of the ball, and I was left with a return of serve that was deep and heavy. With proper timing I had the ability to direct the ball to any part of the court, regardless of the angle it came at me."
Sean got aggressive with his returns. "Just like the Standard version, I had a lot of success hitting aggressive returns. The added length allowed me to get the ball back in play on some tough serves, the only exception being serves into the body, which were exceptionally difficult to fend off with this frame."
Spencer enjoyed the solid feel. "Like with groundstrokes, the solid feel was good. When I had time to set up I could hit a penetrating return. However, I had difficulties hitting solid returns against a harder server. I couldn't seem to get the ball to the sweetspot as easily as I could with the Standard. "
Like the Pure Drive GT Standard, the Pure Drive GT Plus added a more solid feel than the previous Pure Drive Plus model. The added half-inch, as well as a slightly heavier static weight and swingweight, gave the GT Plus excellent penetration and put-away power. We found the finishing power to be evident from all areas of the court, but it seemed to shine the most when serving. This racquet offers a controlled power, and is a must try for those interested in an extended length racquet.
|The "Likes" of the racquet.
Chris "The power and spin potential is amazing -- especially so with a co-poly like Kirschbaum's Spiky Shark. The added length really comes through on serves and big forehands."
Kana "The half-inch of extra length and head light balance was definitely to my liking. The spin this stick is able to produce is great for both offensive and defensive play, especially when attempting an effective slice."
Jackson "Booming serves went in consistently, without tearing my shoulder apart."
Sean "I typically stay with standard length racquets, although I found I prefer hitting with the Plus version of this racquet. The added weight and length seemed to really fit my game, especially when it came to hitting serves and groundstrokes. I really enjoyed being able to take full cuts at the ball, which is exactly what this racquet delivered."
Spencer "The torque, power and action I could get when serving."
|The "Dislikes" of the racquet.
Chris "I'm not a huge fan of longer racquets, but this one makes me much fonder. No real dislikes for me."
Kana "The added Graphite Tungsten helped the overall frame feel more solid. Nevertheless, the Pure Drive still felt a little on the hollow side. If I had any sort of arm/shoulder pain on days I was playing I could really feel the impact of the ball on the string bed."
Jackson "Maneuverability was a little slow at the net, and there were remnants of vibrations that were detectable on groundstrokes."
Sean "The only area in which this racquet didn't excel was maneuverability. I felt like it was hard to defend myself when a shot was directed at the body, both at net and on service returns."
Spencer "I felt the extra length hurt my consistency."
|Babolat Pure Drive GT Plus Scores
(Scores are determined by averaging individual play test scores)
Playtester Profiles
|5.0 All court player currently using the Becker Pro. Chris uses a full-western forehand grip, has a fast swing style and hits a one-handed backhand.
|4.5 Baseline player currently using a Wilson K-Blade Tour. Spencer uses a semi-western forehand grip, and hits with a one-handed backhand.
|4.5 All court player currently using a Babolat Pure Drive Team. Jackson uses a semi-western forehand grip, and hits with a two-handed backhand.
|5.0 baseliner with a western forehand and two-handed backhand. Currently using the ProKennex Black Ace 93.
|4.5 baseliner using the Babolat Aeropro Drive Cortex. Sean has a semi-western forehand, 1 handed backhand.
Review date: July 2009. If you found this review interesting or have further questions or comments please contact us.
All content copyright 2009 Tennis Warehouse.


text:
|Found 351 Recipes
|Revise this Search New Search
Dan's Country Style Coleslawby socrtwo The original ingredient amounts yield a "cooking for a crowd" serving ..
Red Quinoaby socrtwo QUINOA [KEEN-wah] - This ancient seed was a staple of the Incas. It co..
Potato Saladby socrtwo The original recipe yields a "cooking for crowds" number of servings, ..
Hummusby socrtwo *TAHINI [tuh-HEE-nee] - a thick paste made of ground sesame seed. **S..
Dolma* (Stuffed Grape Leaves)by socrtwo *DOLMA [dOl-'mä] - Means "stuffed".
Vegetarian Chiliby socrtwo The original recipe yields the "cooking for crowds" number of servings..
Thai Sweet Corn Soupby socrtwo Note—make this soup a day before, letting it sit in the refrigerator..
Black Bean Chiliby socrtwo Did you know that sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin A?


text:
Savannah Bed and Breakfast
The Provence room is alluring with its old world French country side charm. Peaceful and enchanting, this room overlooks the courtyard. The room comes furnished with a combination of early 19th century antiques and European reproductions to complete the effect.
The Provence Room - $249-$259
My wife and I have stayed at over 20 B&B's across the US (Napa Valley, Nantucket, Martha's Vineyard, etc.), and this was, by far, the best! Her tips on tours and restaurants was spot-on.
Plan Your Stay at a Romantic Savannah Bed and Breakfast
All of The Olde Savannah Inn bed and breakfast guestrooms offer Bose CD players, Flat Screen LCD televisions, and gas-line fireplaces. All sheets are 100% Egyptian cotton. Comforters are pure down with linen coverlets. Luxury towels, custom bath accessories, chocolates, free high-speed wireless Internet access, copy/fax services, telephones with data ports, hairdryers, laundry facilities and irons with ironing boards. We offer turn down service if requested: Maid Services, 4-course gourmet candlelight breakfast. Each of our rooms comes with our gourmet breakfast, afternoon refreshments and evening wine with cheese and crackers.
We offer turn down service if requested: Maid Services, 4-course gourmet candlelight breakfast.
Come stay with us and enjoy all the romance and history Savannah has to offer, at The Olde Savannah Inn.
The Provence Room - $249-$259


text:
G.H. Bass & Co. Burlington Leather Saddle Oxford
Compare at $109.00
Add To Bag
Please select your size, width, and color.
Select color, size, and width before proceeding to check in-store availability.
Some product may need to be shipped to a store
In-Store Pick-Up Details
Add to Wishlist
Item # dsw12prod4010004
Put on the Bass Burlington saddle shoe and take a step back to a much simpler time. This classic leather oxford is timeless and comfortable, featuring perforated brogue details and the signature styling for which Bass is known.
- Leather upper
- Lace-up closure
- Saddle design
- Perforated brogue details
- Round toe
- Synthetic lining
- Lightly cushioned footbed
- Synthetic sole
- Imported
- View more Men's Bass Shoes
By: Mattotis
Location: Chicago
June 23, 2013
Great shoe for spring and summer
"I didn't think I would like these so much...can't take them off!"
By: MyraN
Location: Michigan
March 25, 2013
"I ordered these shoes for my boyfriend, who absolutely loves them! These shoes are comfy and fit true to size. I would definitely recommend this shoe."
By: DaddyChas
Location: New York
December 01, 2012
Nice looking, but...
"This is a great looking saddle shoe -- looks terrific with jeans or casual cords, etc. BUT, the material on the upper is so thin and feels more like cardboard than leather. They are also pretty tight (run small). A good looking shoe. Great if you don't have to walk too far in them."
Click anywhere to close this.


text:
- About
- Academics
- Research
- News & Events
- Prospective Students
- Current Students
- Faculty & Staff
- Alumni
How can we work together to promote better cultural understanding worldwide?
Qais Akbar Omar (GRS'16), a graduate student in the Creative Writing Program, has published a much-praised memoir, A Fort of Nine Towers: An Afghan Family Story. He recalls how the violence and tumult of civil war jolted his family, who, despite losing relatives, their home, and possessions, continued to nurture his wish to attend a university.
Use this form to submit an event to the CAS Event Calendar.
There are no events in Dean of Arts and Sciences during the specified time period.
In this political moment of stark, sometimes violent, partisan divisions, we as a university community must reaffirm our first principles and consider how to react to these and other threats to our fundamental ideals and mission. Read More
Boston University Arts & Sciences


text:
Video >> Browse Videos
Browse Videos
Massive RecoilSubmitted by Account Removed | over 8 years ago49 Views8 Comments
The Office - Diversity TrainingHilarious clip from The Office where all employees get a lesson in political correctness.Submitted by JZuk | over 9 years ago48 Views3 Comments
These Humans Cannot Be Real"We need a woman in the House, the White House; Hillary Clinton is the one. Dedicated to Hillary Clinton by your number #1 Fan, Hillary Fan 8. "Submitted by McConnell | over 8 years ago48 Views5 Comments
Man Harasses Local Traffic Enforcement OfficersThis man takes the law into his own hands by spending his time harassing the law.Submitted by McConnell | over 8 years ago48 Views3 Comments
Barack Obama Speaks at Dr. King's ChurchOn the day before the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday, Senator Barack Obama delivers a speech to the congregation of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia.48 Views0 Comments
Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Last SpeechMLK's last public speech, orated the day before he was assassinated.42 Views1 Comment
2009 Best of the Super Bowl 2009 Commercials2009 Best of the Super Bowl 2009 Commercials 10 MINUTES!41 Views0 Comments
Sarah Palin: A Separatist?Alaska Governor Palin's Address to the AIPSubmitted by JZuk | over 8 years ago41 Views2 Comments
NTSB: Pieces Being Gathered From NY Plane CrashVideo from the Associated Press. According to CNN, "Recovering all the bodies from Thursday's deadly passenger plane crash may take four days as investigators work through freezing temperatures and piles of wreckage, a federal transportation official saidSubmitted by editor | about 8 years ago39 Views4 Comments
Funny Accidents In ArmyFunny Accidents In ArmySubmitted by hwillny | over 8 years ago38 Views0 Comments
Romney Prank CallEver prank call your dad? Watch Mitt Romney's son pretend to be Gov Arnold Schwarzenegger - see if Mitt takes the bait.Submitted by JZuk | about 9 years ago37 Views2 Comments
Zombie Press ConferencePresident Bush fields questions on the threat of zombies. Very funny!Submitted by editor | over 9 years ago36 Views3 Comments


text:
- Akademik Ioffe
- Research Ship
- 96 Capacity
- 19 Days
- 2017
View Departure>
- 2017
- Oct 18 Wed Offer
- Nov 30 Thu Offer
- Price from
- $12,945
- I'm Interested
Summary : On this far-reaching expedition to the islands of the South Atlantic Ocean and the Antarctic mainland, revel in exploration aboard a comfortable and well-appointed research vessel. Throughout your trip, a highly experienced expedition staff will provide excellent customer care in a casual and active environment—daily hikes, kayaking excursions, and daily Zodiac rides. Experience the historic Falklands, and enjoy three days on magnificent South Georgia—known for dramatic mountains and the majestic king penguins numbering in the thousands. Enjoy stops in the South Orkney Islands before arriving at the much-anticipated Antarctic Mainland where you encounter an unimaginable profusion of penguins, whales cresting in close proximity, and sweeping ice sheets that span an entire continent.
Amelia Tockston has sailed aboard the Akademik Ioffe. Click to view her travel journal and photos!
Activities : Birding, Child-Friendly, Culture, Hiking, Kayaking, Photography, Triple/Quad Cabins
Just-Released Offer Save $750 per person. Youth savings up to 25% off.
NEW – Child and student rates are now available.
Prices from
$13,695 to $22,495
Today is the first day of your adventure. Board your ship in Ushuaia, the world's southernmost city on the tip of Argentina, and settle into your new home for the next 18 days. In the early evening, set sail and begin your voyage leaving behind Ushuaia and charting a course through the Beagle Channel.
You have the chance to spend plenty of time with onboard polar experts. They will be educating you as you travel through the wonders of Antarctica. Sailing northeast, you will likely be joined by swooping seabirds including the wandering albatross, who you will come to know well on this journey.
Arriving in the Falklands during the night, by morning you are excited to make your first shore excursion. The plan is to explore the islands of the West Falkland Archipelago, home to a profusion of seabirds and migratory birds including the black-browed albatross. Your first penguin sightings will be on the islands of West Point with its bustling rookeries of rockhoppers. On Carcass Island, observe nesting Magellanic penguins along with oystercatchers, geese and the flightless steamer duck who is a permanent Falkland resident.
The next day, make a stop in Stanley, the captial of the Falkland Islands. As you wander through the charming streets of brightly painted houses, learn how this quiet harbor was once a major port in the 19th century for ships attempting to round the formidable waters of Cape Horn. You also make a stop in Stanley's famed philatelic museum with its impressive collection of historic stamps.
Now you sail southeast bound for the island of South Georgia. These days at sea are never dull. Much of your time is spent scanning the horizon in search of whales and other marine mammals as well as seabirds. Your friendly onboard experts continue to fill minds with heroic stories of some of the earliest daredevils to explore Antarctica. You also learn about Polar conservation--a theme particularly close to the hearts of your guides and crew. The anticipation grows particularly as you cross the Antarctic Convergence and notice a dramatic drop in temperature.
Majestic snow-covered mountains greet you on the island of South Georgia, the most rugged island in this region. Cruise the protected waters of the eastern coast looking for suitable landing spots such as Salisbury Plain and St Andrews Bay. The highlight of both these excursions is the mind-boggling abundance of king penguin adults and young that live in these locations by the hundreds of thousands, covering every inch of the shore. That is not the only wildlife on display. Fur seals can be seen poking their heads above the water, skuas and giant petrels swoop in the skies above, and the albatross--your constant companion--is never far away. You may explore an old whaling station at Grytviken (Greet-vik-in) and visit the grave of the most famous Antarctic explorer, Sir Ernest Shackleton.
As you cross the Scotia Sea, sailing ever closer to Antarctica, you may visit the South Orkney Islands. Linked to the Antarctic Peninsula by an enormous sub-marine mountain range these islands, often shrouded in mist, are protected by large icebergs and sea ice. If you are lucky, there will be an excursion to Coronation Island to observe penguins nesting in moss beds alongside graceful snow petrels. You may also stop at the remote island of Laurie and visit the Argentinean meteorological station located there.
Elephant Island, en route to the South Shetland Islands, will be your next destination if conditions are suitable. Here, learn more about the famous Antarctic adventures of Sir Ernest Shackleton. This island was a place of refuge in 1916 for Shackleton and his crew after his ship was destroyed by pack ice in the Weddell Sea. Next, you spend some time cruising among the South Shetland Islands just off the Antarctic Peninsula. Dazzling wildlife sightings await on your excursions to some of these islands including King George, Half Moon, Aicho or Livingston. Adélie, chinstrap and gentoo penguins thrive here, as do several species of seal. You may even see the gentle humpback whale dining on krill off King George Island.
Weather permitting, enter the flooded volcanic caldera of Deception Island. At this recently active volcano the hot, thermal water mixes with the icy, Southern Ocean making this a great place for a quick dip for the more intrepid guest. If you prefer to stay dry, you may choose to enjoy a spectacular walk to the higher points of the crater rim. There is also an abandoned whaling station nearby begging exploration. Finally, after so much anticipation, arrive at the Antarctic mainland in Paradise Harbor or Hope Bay. The scenery here--from the colossal icebergs to the seemingly endless Antarctic ice sheet--is truly breathtaking. Weather permitting, you may undertake a shore excursion and set foot on the White Continent itself.
Make your way back, heading again across the Antarctic Convergence and the Drake Passage before rounding Cape Horn. Sailing down the Beagle Channel, you celebrate the conclusion of your Polar expedition at a special dinner.
In the early morning, arrive back in Ushuaia. It is time to say farewell to your crew and fellow travelers. Guests will be transported to their hotels or to the airport for return flights home.
The above itinerary is a guide only, as the exact program depends on weather and ice conditions and the wildlife you encounter. Flexibility is the key to the success of this expedition.
Mandatory Insurance:
All guests are required to have comprehensive travel insurance which must cover accidents, injury, illness and death, medical expenses, including any related to pre-existing medical conditions, emergency repatriation (including helicopter) and personal liability. ExpeditionTrips strongly recommends at least $200,000 Emergency Medical/Evacuation coverage for Antarctic trips which includes coverage for cancellation, trip disruption, baggage and personal property. ExpeditionTrips can assist you with this. You must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if requested by expedition staff. The expedition team reserves the right to cancel or suspend your participation on a trip or in certain activities that comprise part of a trip, at any time, including after the commencement of your tour, with no right of refund, if you are unable to provide proof of insurance when requested.
Sea Kayaking Option: $795 per person
Pre-booked option for up to 16 guests. If you have experience sea kayaking and are interested in doing this activity during the expedition, you will need to book this option prior to departure from home. You cannot book this activity once onboard. There is a separate document for sea kayakers that you will need to review beforehand. Provided equipment includes full Gore-Tex drysuits, kayak specific PFD's, neoprene booties, a waterproof deck bag, pogies and many other vital paddling accessories.
Snowshoeing: No additional supplement
No pre-booking required. If conditions are suitable, you may choose to snowshoe on the continent. Snowshoes and trekking poles provided. Traveling by snowshoes offers a new view of Antarctica! Come prepared with warm socks and comfortable clothing. A small knapsack to carry water and an extra layer of clothing is recommended.
Hiking Excursions: No additional supplement
No pre-booking required. Trekking poles are available onboard for passenger use and instep crampons will be provided if necessary to improve traction on slick surfaces. Sturdy hiking books and warm hiking socks are needed to join this activity. Hikes will be 2-3 hours in duration and will involve negotiating challenging terrain without the assistance of trails. Antarctica hiking rewards with images of snow, ice, mountains, and glaciers.
Camping Option: No additional supplement
No pre-booking required. If conditions are suitable and you choose to camp on the continent, all the required gear, such as bivy sacs and sleeping bags, will be provided. This excursion is managed with strict environmental regulations. A portable outhouse tent is used and absolutely everything is transported back to the ship afterwards.
Photography: No additional supplement
An onboard photographer is available to work with you throughout the voyage to help you improve your photography and encourage you to look at scenes or events in a different way in order to capture them digitally. Also available is an onboard multimedia download studio with computers, cables, and hard-drives for back-up storage and for creating DVDs of your images.
Accommodation aboard the ship; all meals during the voyage prepared by onboard professional chefs; afternoon tea with fresh snacks each afternoon; coffee, tea, hot chocolate throughout the day; all Zodiac excursions; extensive program of relevant educational presentations; advice from experienced team of naturalists; foul weather gear set (pants/jacket/wellington boots OR waterproof backpack/waterproof binoculars/wellington boots); use of multimedia station; welcome reception; welcome dinner; farewell dinner hosted by Captain; 'Memory Book' (log book chronicling your trip, includes photos); onboard medical officer; pre-departure information; hairdryers available on request at no charge; transfers from the meeting point in Ushuaia to the pier to board the ship on day 1 of the cruise and transfers from the pier to the meeting point or airport on the last day of the cruise.
Not Included:
All airfare; visa and passport fees; airport departure taxes; pre-cruise or post-cruise meals, transfers, and hotel accommodation; personal laundry charges; postage; telephone calls; drinks; medical expenses; trip interruption and cancellation insurance; travel medical insurance including medical evacuation (required); gratuities to staff and crew; private fitness sessions; massage therapy; fee for optional programs.
PHOTOS: © C. Lawton, Ira Meyer, Adam Riley, Claudio Suter
Would you like to learn more about this trip or request availability?


text:
The Lockout Ends: Now What?
Jonathan Willis
January 06 2013 11:21AM
The NHL lockout finally came to an end thanks to a marathon bargaining session that started Saturday and stretched into the early hours of Sunday morning. So what happens next for the Edmonton Oilers?
1. Buyout decisions. The new collective agreement will allow the Oilers to buyout up to two contracts, and I think they should use at least one. The first, on loyal soldier Shawn Horcoff, is a sad necessity: I've always appreciated the player but given the uncertainty of the salary cap for the next few years his $5.5 million cap hit is a luxury the club can't afford. There are a number of possibilities for the second – on the NHL roster, guys like Eric Belanger, Ben Eager and Corey Potter are all potential victims. I also wonder about the possibility of clearing a spot on the 50-man list with a buyout – a guy like Cameron Abney (recently passed on the depth chart by Central Hockey League enforcer Erick Lizon) might be a candidate.
2. Trade talks. If NHL teams – as has been suggested and makes a certain amount of sense, given the lack of hockey – have been cooking up deals over the early part of this winter we should see a flurry of trades here in the early going. Bob Stauffer has previously talked about a "wow" deal for the Oilers, but that was contingent on a December start to the season. We'll know right away if they have anything in the works.
3. Free agents. The Oilers have to decide quickly if they want to bring any unrestricted free agents on board. Up front they look fairly set but a depth defenceman like Chris Campoli, Colin White, Randy Jones or Mike Mottau might be a sound investment. The names available aren't great, but that's what's left.
4. Training camp. Reporter Steve Zipay tweets this morning that most clubs (barring CBA snags) plan to start training camps on either Wednesday or Thursday. This means a bunch of guys playing elsewhere need to get to Edmonton – from NHL'ers overseas to Nail Yakupov to the AHL cluster. Aside from obvious AHL guys (NHL'ers and Justin Schultz) I imagine we'll see at least one of Colten Teubert/Taylor Fedun as well as a guy like Arcobello or Lander or VandeVelde.
5. Hockey. Undoubtedly, some fans will tune out but my sense is that most will come rushing back. For Oilers fans, the enticements are many. Justin Schultz narrowly missed the all-time AHL goal-scoring record (I'm assuming he doesn't appear in today's game) for a defenceman in just 34 games; he'll be in an Oilers uniform and playing big minutes. Nail Yakupov's KHL season this year stacks up well against guys like Alexander Ovechkin at the same age – he too will be in Edmonton. Familiar players like Taylor Hall, Jordan Eberle and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins will have an advantage out of the gates thanks to brilliant starts in the AHL. There's a lot to look forward to.
Recently by Jonathan Willis
Paajarvi and Hartikainen should make the opening-day roster given their mid-season form. Yann Danis too.
Let's hope Hordichuk and Khabibulin only see ice in practice.
Good God.
Paajarvi's shooting percentage is below 5%.
Kid can't play.
January 06 2013, 09:34PM
I with Hemsky would look great with the Sedins,and Luongo could go to Toronto,with Phanuef coming here? I think everyone gets what they need.
The Oilers would have to re-renovate their dressing room to make room for Phaneuf's ego. PASS
Pretty sure you won't be able to re-sign a player you just bought out. Likely will be some kind of timeframe (1 year) before you can re-sign a guy you bought out.


text:
Skechers Diamo Sneaker
Sorry, this item is sold out!
Looks like you've got more shoe shopping to do - have fun!
Looks like you've got more shoe shopping to do - have fun!
Item # 250419
Hit the streets in the Diamo, a retro-inspired canvas striped sneaker from Skechers. This fun and casual lace up combines comfort and style all in one.
- Canvas and suede upper
- Fabric lining
- Lightly padded footbed
- Rubber outsole
- Imported
- Online Exclusive!
Tell us what you think!
Everyone has an opinion. Here's your chance to share yours! Be the first to write a review of this product and help your fellow shoppers pick the best of the best.