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Orange County, California: Great Neapolitan Pies at Pizza Ortica
Pizza Ortica
650 Anton Boulevard, Costa Mesa CA 92626 (map); 714-445-4900; pizzeriaortica.com
Pizza style: Neapolitan
Oven type: Wood-fired oven
When it opened early in 2009, Pizza Ortica generated its share of controversy on Chowhound. This David Myers venture, next door to South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa, California, was variously described as "the worst pizza experience ever," "$87 for pizza and pasta? Extortion!" and "embarrassingly mediocre." Many of the complaints repeated, ad nauseam, the old "too limp and wet in the center" refrain. More recently, several Southland bloggers have defended Ortica's pizza style as Neapolitan-influenced and, therefore, intentionally "wet centered" and relatively "limp" (I hate that word!) compared to typical American pizza.
Well, nearly a year and a half later and I still had yet to get down there but a propitious occasion presented itself a few weeks ago when a pair of fellow passionate pizza people, Cary and Lillian Steiner of Passion-4-Pizza fame, happened to turn up in Orange County in search of a wood-fired pizza adventure. Yee hahhh! I saddled up my 4 Runner and headed on down to Costa Mesa to see for myself just what Pizza Ortica was servin' up.
We sat down in the bar area, just a few meters from the focus of our collective interest, the wood-fired oven. The menu informed us that the pizza dough is made from a 300-year-old biga from Naples. Well, the crust certainly has a "classic" ancestry, but it would be up to the pizzaiolo to create magic from his tools and ingredients.
Ordering left me with a twinge of trepidation. Several of the pies had toppings that we all wanted to avoid, particularly the anchovies (yeah, yeah, yeah, we're wimps), yet the menu stated in no uncertain terms: No Exceptions! We prevailed upon our waiter, who promised us that he'd "see what he could do." As we were the only diners in the restaurant at that moment we felt confident he could convince the pizzamaker to indulge our modifications to the pies.
Our first pie was the iconic Margherita, the pride of Naples. While some pizza maniacs have grown bored with this traditional pie, when done right, it is a marvel of simplicity. And the pie set down in front of us unquestionably was, in its way, as hot-lookin' as Sophia Loren in the film Boy on a Dolphin. Round, with a thick, juicy, well-charred and blistered lip, with pearly pools of mozzarella, and a few curled leaves of basil floating on a fruity, crimson sea of crushed San Marzanos. Pizza porn, indeed!
And remarkably, the pie tasted just about as good as it looked. The all-important crust had just the right degree of exterior crispness and interior chewiness, with a hint of saltiness. The silky smooth mozzarella and fresh sauce, applied with restraint, provided textural balance and uncomplicated flavors. Each bite left me wondering, "What could these fools be complaining about?" Maybe one of them felt that the pie needed more cheese or that the basil had congregated asymmetrically in the center? Perhaps another thought the crust wasn't crisp enough?
This was a goddamn great tasting pie! And only $12! My one complaint was that I only got a single slice.
Our next pizza, the Amalfitana ($17), satisfied Lillian's veggie desires as, happily, the waiter succeeded in deleting the anchovies from this pie, which featured zucchini, summer squash, red onion, and ricotta. Again, the unassailable crust really impressed me. Most veteran pizzaphiles will grant that the crust is the most critical and most difficult element of the pie to perfect. It's not too tough to shop around and choose the freshest, tastiest toppings, but try making a perfect dough every day and perfectly maneuvering it around in an 800°F oven. No easy task.
By the end of the second pie, Pizza Ortica was batting an impressive, if difficult to maintain, 100 percent.
Now, the pie I most looked forward to devouring, the salsiccia ($17), arrived at our table. I must first confess that, by birth, I was forbidden to eat sauseeege! But, in college, my Italian-American roommates baptized me into the Italian family, not with holy water but with tequila, and ever since that fateful and rather hazy, sophomore year I have freely and joyfully violated the Lord's dietary laws, eating sausage and lasagna, sausage and peppers heroes, and, of course, sausage-topped pizza, whenever and wherever the opportunity arose. Thanks, bros!
So, imagine my horror and disgust when that first highly anticipated bite encountered a pasty, gummy, thoroughly undercooked crust! The sausage itself was spicy and juicy. The caramelized onions imparted a sweet note, and we also successfully substituted fresh mozzarella for the original mascarpone, which none of us felt belonged on this pizza. But the crust sucked! Under normal circumstances, I would have insisted on, even fought for the fourth slice, but the crust so disappointed me that I was left quite disinterested. Truly, it was as if this crust had been made elsewhere; it bore absolutely no relation to the two earlier pies we'd eaten.
Pizza Ortica was now batting 66 percent.
Finally, we came to the Prosciutto di Parma e rucola pie ($17). Essentially, a Margherita topped with prosciutto and wild arugala, this pizza restored the smile to my face. Typically, when I've encountered this pizza iteration, the prosciutto and arugula seem as haphazardly piled on to the pie as a heap of freshly dried laundry tossed into a basket. And there always seems to be too much greenery for my taste. This pie had a restrained balance of meat and cheese, and the tomato sauce on the base of Ortica's pie gave it spicy, fruity textures and flavors that enhanced its identity as pizza rather than an open-face sandwich. Most important, the crust, unlike the previous pie, delicately and successfully achieved the proper the crisp-chew ratio.
As subjective as the pursuit of perfect pizza is, I am still dumbfounded by some people's uninformed commentary. One may not appreciate the Neapolitan style of pizza-making but how a person can excoriate the pizza-making at this Orange County establishment is beyond my comprehension. While admittedly, pie makers can have an off day, and though the restaurant may, at busier times, enforce pizza fascism with regards to toppings, I can wholeheartedly endorse Pizza Ortica's quality. It is a bit of a schlep from Los Angeles, but if you live in the area or are heading to Orange County, you can't go wrong with their pizza.
Three out of the four pies, 75 percent, were superb, a Hall of Fame statistic in baseball and a damn good score for a pizzaiolo.
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A fiduciary rule from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) looks to be years away. Three to four years away is the prediction Knut Rostad, president of the Institute for the Fiduciary Standard, recently gave me. During that time period, he said, "we aren't going to see any fiduciary rule with teeth."
While industry observers have been adamant that the SEC's fiduciary process has stalled, SEC Chairwoman Mary Schapiro told me in a mid-September interview that while "it may appear from the outside it has stalled, work has been going on here [at the agency] to advance the issue."
Schapiro said that the fiduciary issue remains "really important," and that she's "ready to go" on releasing a request for information to allow the public to help inform a "more detailed" cost-benefit analysis on the agency's fiduciary rule. Declining to say whether a rule proposal would come by year-end, Schapiro said "it would be nice to get this final request for information."
Still, industry experts like Neil Simon, vice president of the Investment Adviser Association (IAA) in Washington, argue the SEC is "nowhere close" to voting on a fiduciary rule proposal.
Barbara Roper, director of investor protection at the Consumer Federation of America (CFA), added on a recent conference call that pressure from Congress to perform that more detailed cost-benefit analysis has basically "paralyzed" the agency.
Roper (left) also believes that Schapiro is taking it slow in proposing a rule for fear of litigation. "Because of the threat of litigation, [Schapiro] is now reluctant to move forward" on a fiduciary proposal without support from a Republican commissioner, Roper said.
What's more, the SEC is faced with mandatory rulemakings under the Dodd-Frank Act and, more recently, the JOBS Act, so the SEC will "prioritize" its rulemakings. Dodd-Frank only gave the agency the authority to write a fiduciary rule; it didn't mandate one.
Yet another factor is that Schapiro could likely be departing her post at the end of this year. Rostad and David Tittsworth, executive director of IAA in Washington, say the word on the street is that it's unlikely that Schapiro will continue as chairwoman after this year, even if President Obama is re-elected.
While it's certainly not unusual to see a "fair amount" of turnover at federal agencies in the wake of a presidential election, Tittsworth says that if Mitt Romney wins the White House, it's widely expected that he will appoint a replacement for Schapiro.
"Significant changes in the composition of the Commission" could well occur after the elections, Tittsworth said, "and those changes may very well determine the fate of the Section 913 [fiduciary] rulemaking."
Rostad did say there was a "small chance" that Schapiro would issue a fiduciary rule proposal by year-end. He attempted to reignite the stalled fiduciary process by christening September as "Fiduciary September," and he, along with heavyweights like Vanguard founder John Bogle and former SEC Chairman Arthur Levitt, planned to meet with Schapiro in mid-September to try to press her to move forward with a rule. However, industry experts predicted those efforts would prove futile.
While Fiduciary September is important because it raises "the profile of the issue" and "reignites the discussion," Roper said during the conference call that was held by the Institute for the Fiduciary Standard in early September, it may not be enough to boost the chances of any real action taking place.
But it looks as though the Department of Labor (DOL) could repropose its fiduciary rule before year-end.
Ron Rhoades, assistant professor and chairman of the financial planning program at Alfred State College, who was also on the call with Roper and Rostad, said that he's heard rumblings that the DOL plans to repropose its fiduciary rule in November, depending on which way the election goes.
DOL, Roper said, "has continued to move forward" with its rule to amend the definition of fiduciary under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), and DOL's "spirit on this issue has the ability to get this [fiduciary] issue moving again" at the SEC.
Roper also remarked that the advisory industry needs to cooperate with the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association (SIFMA)—Wall Street's lobbying group—if it stands a chance of jump-starting the process at the SEC again.
[Read more about efforts to harmonize rules from the SEC and DOL.]
Rostad (right) argued that SIFMA's approach to a fiduciary standard "is a sales/broker standard and not a fiduciary standard at all." But Roper countered that "the best chance" to get the SEC moving again on a fiduciary rulemaking is to focus on areas where SIFMA and the advisory industry agree regarding how the SEC should craft a fiduciary duty for brokers.
It's important to highlight "the areas of agreement regarding the appropriate approach, which are significant, rather than always highlighting our differences," Roper told me. "While the differences are important and can't be ignored, our best chance of success will come if we can build from that common ground and treat each other's viewpoint with respect."
Roper laid out the areas where SIFMA and the advisory industry agree. "We both support moving forward through parallel rules under the Advisers Act and Exchange Act establishing a principles-based rule for personalized investment advice to retail investors, supported by a combination of rules and guidance to help clarify how that standard applies to the broker-dealer business model," she said. And, "I think we also agree that it was the clear intent of Congress to preserve the ability of brokers to offer advice within the context of a sales-based business model; in other words, that the goal was not to eliminate conflicts but to ensure that any conflicts were fully disclosed and appropriately managed."
FINRA Rules Could Provide Substitute for Fiduciary Standard
If the SEC proves incapable of moving forward on fiduciary rulemaking, Roper said it's also possible to "make progress raising the standard of conduct for brokers and improving the ability of investors to make an informed selection of financial intermediaries through FINRA rulemaking," pointing to FINRA's recently amended suitability rule, and its concept release that would require a disclosure statement be presented to retail investors at or before commencing a business relationship.
But Rhoades said FINRA's new suitability rule is still only "a minor" improvement. "There is still a huge difference between suitability requirements and the fiduciary standard."

subset: commoncrawl


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Is it really true that nobody knows how to drive a stick these days? I tend to doubt the "automatic transmission is destroying our ability to drive" gloom-and-doom crowd, but who can say? Time for a totally unscientific poll!
See, my not-really-based-on-reality feeling is that 80% of the American population remains capable of working a car with a manual— I know, these damn kids these days done got spoiled by their internets and slushboxes, but automatics have outnumbered manuals since the mid-1960s, right?
Here's how it works: if you feel comfortable hopping behind the wheel of a car equipped with three pedals and driving without any anxiety about the whole clutch/shifting thing, then you can operate a manual transmission-equipped vehicle. If you can sorta figure it out but keep killing the engine and or grinding the gears, or if you kinda drove a stick that one time after you drank all that Boone's Farm at the drive-in and had to flee the rent-a-cop in a 3-on-the-tree '51 Chevy, then you can't drive a manual-transmission-equipped vehicle. There's no reason to lie, although probably some of you will anyway... and, just to make it more interesting, let's have an age split at 25. OK? Right!


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Denigration of Native Americans must end
The Hook has been my favorite local news source since its inception. I have always trusted the Hook to give me the news in a way that supports my left-leaning sensibilities. Unfortunately, I now have to rethink that.
In the September 1 "Culture Vulture" feature, Linda Sherman makes an attempt at humor by depicting a stereotypical Native American holding a tomahawk referred to as a "scalper" in a cartoon about Dave Matthews tickets. He is also referred to as a "hippie," I gather because of his traditional long hair and garb.
This is the third time I have witnessed Native Americans treated this way in local media. I am by no means a watchdog. I can't imagine how many instances I have missed. My father was full-blooded Mohawk.
Years ago, I heard a popular local DJ ridicule Native American protest of offensive team names and mascots over the radio. He said that "the last thing I think of when I think of the Washington Redskins is some dumb Indian." Hahaha. More recently, I heard a local musician and scholar refer to Jazz as the only music indigenous to this country. What?
Apologies were made and accepted in both those instances, but I realize now that I should have made a more public stand.
My question to both of those individuals, and now to you at the Hook, is why is it okay to degrade or dismiss Native Americans in this country? It is not acceptable for mainstream media to treat any other demographic in this way, and it just needs to stop.
Barbara Peters
CrozetRead more on: racial insensitivity


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Ai's Song: Elton John Praises Artist in Beijing
Elton John struck a note of support for dissident artist Ai Weiwei at his show in Beijing Sunday night. But did he also strike a blow at China's live music scene?
More In Ai Weiwei
- Lego Admits It Was a 'Mistake' Refusing Ai Weiwei Bricks for Art Exhibition
- Lego Granted Bulk Orders for Previous Ai Weiwei Project
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- UK Grants Ai Weiwei Six-Month Visa, Apologizes
- 'False Representations': U.K. Restricts Ai Weiwei's Visa
- Interview: Ai Weiwei on His Passport, Travel Plans and 'New Chapters'
Mr. John dedicated the show "to the spirit and talent of Ai Weiwei," reported the Associated Press. The British singer also took time to meet with Mr. Ai, who posted photos of the encounter on Twitter and called him "a lovely musician."
Mr. Ai is a continued thorn in the side of Beijing authorities. An increasingly vocal critic of the government in recent years, the artist was detained for 81 days without being charged last year amid a broader crackdown on criticism. He has also battled local tax authorities over their claims that he owes them a $2.4 million fine for tax evasion.
Should the authorities take umbrage, Mr. John's public shout-out to Mr. Ai could have ramifications for other musicians hoping to perform in China. Four years ago, China's cultural minders clamped down on public performances after Icelandic twee pixie standard bearer Bjork shouted "Tibet! Tibet!" during a performance in Shanghai. The result was a dearth of major live shows in China from globally recognized artists in recent years – no offense meant, Roxette -- though the local scene remains vibrant.
The issue also led to increased scrutiny of Bob Dylan's playlist when he performed in Beijing last year. (He said the government had no involvement in what he played.)
Some on the Sina Weibo microblogging service on Monday worried about the impact. "Bjork, Elton John, I hate you," wrote one poster. "Next year to see anything we'll have to go to Hong Kong."
-- Carlos Tejada. Follow him on Twitter @CRTejada
Like China Real Time on Facebook and Twitter for the latest updates.
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This week in birthday land it's the turn of the CCB (Caked Crusader's Brother). My choice of birthday cake for him was shaped by his incontrovertible "Two Food Truths":
- Cheesecake is the best cake
- All food tastes better when eaten from a stick
My choice? Cheesecake on stick! Result? Happy brother!
I used my trusted no-bake cheesecake recipe and simply changed the order of doing things. I made the cheesecake topping and put it in a bowl to set, only making the biscuit base when I was ready to roll the cheesecake balls in it.
If the butter was added to the biscuits, as you'd normally do for a biscuit base, I feared that it would be difficult to get an even layer around the cheesecake. So I deconstructed the process – get me! – and melted the butter, dipped the cheesecake ball in it, then in the biscuit crumb. It was very easy and created the desired finish....although I admit they do look a bit like scotch eggs!
Some cheesecake balls skipped the biscuit crumb stage but were rolled in chopped nuts and finished off with some melted chocolate:
I also made some strawberry puree to dip the cheesecake balls into:
It was simply a matter of blending some strawberries, adding sugar to taste, and then sieving out the seeds. If it's too runny, heat on the hob until it reduces by half.
The key to making cheesecake balls is to work quickly and keep the mixture cool. If at any point it becomes sticky or tricky to work with pop it all back in the fridge for 20 minutes. I'm not sure the stick element was a great success – the cheesecake was too soft to hold firmly to the lovely lolly sticks I'd purchased but I found that cocktail sticks worked; the remedy would've been to pop them in the freezer for 10-15 minutes but I hate freezing things unnecessarily (chalk it up as another item on the list of weird things I have strong feelings about).
Finally, a word of caution – when you roll the first heaped teaspoon spoon sized ball of cheesecake you will curse me. Your hands will get covered and you will suspect the whole venture will end in failure. However....once that first ball is out the way and you have a sheen of cheesecake on your hands, the subsequent balls are easy to roll. Just apply gently pressure and work quickly!
Happy birthday CCB!
Make cheesecake topping as per this recipe
Put cheesecake topping into a bowl or Tupperware that you can cover i.e. with clingfilm or a lid, and refrigerate for several hours or, better still, overnight.
Take heaped teaspoonfuls of cheesecake and roll into balls.
Place on baking paper, on a tray, plate, tin etc and put back in the fridge.
Blitz the biscuits (quantity per the recipe link above) in a food processor and tip into a bowl.
Melt the butter (quantity per the recipe link above) and tip into a bowl.
Take the cheesecake balls from the fridge and dip quickly in the butter, then roll in the biscuit crumbs.
Place on a clean sheet of baking paper and, when all are done, put back in the fridge until you are ready to serve.
If you are making a strawberry dipping sauce clean and hull the strawberries then blitz in the food processor.
Add icing sugar to taste.
Sieve to remove the seeds.
If it's too runny, heat on the hob until it has reduced to a thick sauce.
Chill until required.
So they hold their shape, cheesecake balls are best served straight from the fridge.
Bask in the glory of the wonderful thing you have created.


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Most Nebraskans know Chuck Hagel, Ben Nelson and the rest of our congressional delegation.
But there are a lot of less visible Nebraskans working behind them. These congressional staffers do everything from answer phones to write legislation.
"Statewide's" Brad Penner traveled to Washington, D.C. for the start of this congressional session, and learned more about why these staffers do what they do, and what attracts these energetic young men and women to life on the hill.


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'New' ACTA Version Published, EC Pushes For Signing
from the and-here-we-go deptThere hasn't been much movement in the last few months with ACTA, though there's been plenty of scrambling behind the scenes. The latest is that a "new" final draft of the document has been released, though all it really appears to have changed is the signing period. But, more important, is the news that the EC is pushing really hard to get it signed:
The European Commission is piling on pressure for ACTA (Anti-counterfeiting Trade Agreement), and is quietly preparing a legal proposal for the EU to sign it. The news comes in the context of ongoing discussion in the European Parliament on the question of whether to obtain a legal opinion on ACTA's compatibility with the Treaties.However, the European Parliament, which has been much more skeptical of ACTA from the beginning, is apparently still skeptical, and would like to take the shocking step of actually making sure that ACTA doesn't go against existing EU laws. The EC has simply declared that it is, and would rather that the Parliament not actually confirm this. Hopefully, the Parliament doesn't cave in to EC pressure, and actually takes the time to make sure that anything it signs is appropriate.
In its recent Communication on IPR Enforcement, the Commission suggests it is a fait accompli that the EU will sign ACTA in 2011. Indeed that all of the countries involved in the negotiation will sign.
Filed Under: acta, eu parliament, europe, european commission


text:
Pre-tapped for easy and clean gauge installation and other auxiliary inputs
Stock Disadvantage
Stock Dodge Cummins intake manifolds have sharp bends and corners. Air flows around these corners and zones of dead air created. These dead air zones choke down air and restrict airflow to your engine.
The MDV Advantage
Our MDV technology uses smooth bends and directional vanes to form multiple air paths through the manifold. These new paths are smoother and shorter, producing much smaller dead air zones for increased overall airflow to the engine.
The AFE BLADERUNNER AIR INTAKE MANIFOLD 46-10051 is designed to fit the following applications: 1994-1998 Dodge 5.9L Cummins 12V (excluding trucks w/ Hydro Brake Booster) .


text:
VangoNotes for Maternal-Newborn Nursing
Publisher's Summary
VangoNotes are flexible; download all the material directly to your player, or only the chapters you need. And they're efficient. Use them in your car, at the gym, walking to class, wherever. So get yours today. And get studying.
Script developed by
Stephanie E. Klein
Reviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.
- Sara
- 03-19-09
I am a busy mom of a 2 year old boy, a nursing student and during finals week I was moving and wanting to pull my hair out till I found this. I cant stress enough how valuable it is. The people reading it change so you dont get bored. If your commitied to learning and have a busy life this is for you. I am a visual learner yet this was a life saver. I bought all the books in the series after learning the concepts and rationals of the entire book in 3 days. the quizes are awesome. cant say enough good things.
7 people found this helpful
- J Jordan Sipes
- 10-20-07
Great for adult students!
I love VangoNotes for studying. During nursing school, I worked part-time in the hospital. Between completing assignments, attending clinicals and maintaining a home, there wasn't much time left for sitting down and cracking a book. I listened to VangoNotes on my commute, and while exercising or cleaning the house. It really helped fill in the cracks. It also helped me complete daily tasks of living without that nagging "I should be studying" feeling. I was prepared for class, and I passed NCLEX-RN with no problems.
10 people found this helpful
- Mary
- 09-04-07
hard to navigate
It was hard to navagate between review, section, and questions.
6 people found this helpful


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text:
The benchmark redefined.
Luxury Cars
Editor: J.P. Vettraino
$30,995 Base Price MSRP
$43,740 As Tested MSRP
Model Lineup: BMW 325i sedan ($30,995); 330i sedan ($36,995); 325Ci coupe ($30,100); 330Ci coupe ($36,300); 325Ci convertible ($37,300); 330Ci convertible ($43,600); M3 coupe ($46,500); M3 convertible ($54,900)
Standard Engine: 3.0-liter double overhead cam 24v inline-6 with variable valve timing
Engine Options: 184-hp 2.5-liter dohc 24-valve inline-6; 215-hp 3.0-liter dohc 24-valve inline-6; 225-hp 3.0-liter dohc 24-valve inline-6; 235-hp 3.0-liter dohc 24-valve inline-6; 255-hp 3.0-liter dohc 24-valve inline-6; 333-hp 3.2-liter DOHC 24-valve inline-6
Standard Transmission: 6-speed manual
Transmission Options: 5-speed manual; 5-speed automatic; 6-speed manual; 6-speed automatic; 6-speed sequential manual gearbox
Basic Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
Assembled In: Munich, Germany
Model Tested MSRP: BMW 330i sedan ($36,995)
Standard Equipment: burr walnut trim with leatherette upholstery, automatic climate control with dual passenger/driver temperature and micro filter, power windows, remote keyless entry, leather-wrapped steering wheel with tilt/telescoping steering column, climate-controlled center console, cruise control; rain-sensing variable-speed wipers, automatic bi-xenon adaptive headlamps with washers, halogen foglights, two-way power moonroof, Logic 7 audio system with digital sound processing and 13 speakers, including two subwoofers, 17-inch wheels with H-rated tires
Options As Tested: Sport Package ($1600) includes M sport suspension, 18-inch wheels with W-rated tires, power sport seats and 155-mph speed-limiter; Premium Package ($2200) includes Dakota leather upholstery, Bluetooth cell phone interface, power folding side mirrors with reverse tilt-down feature on passenger side, digital mirror compass and BMW Assist telematics; Cold Weather Package ($1,000)) includes electrically heated seats, high-intensity headlight washers and split-folding rear seat with ski sack; Active Steering ($1250)
Standard Safety Equipment: dual airbags with two-stage deployment; seat mounted front side-impact airbags; full-cabin head-protection (curtain) airbags; tire-pressure monitoring system; ABS; traction control; dynamic stability control; post-impact system to unlock doors, switch on hazard and interior lighting and disable fuel pumpDestination Charge: $695
The 2006 BMW 325i and 330i sedans comprise the fifth-generation of a car that created a concept, or at least cemented that concept indelibly in the buying public's awareness. For 40 years the 3 Series had delivered a special mix of sporting performance, practicality and European luxury in a compact package. It's the car that defines sport sedan," and the benchmark every luxury car maker from Acura to Volvo aims at when it develops a sport sedan or a smaller luxury sedan. Above all, the 3 Series is a driver's car: accelerating, turning and stopping with remarkable agility and balance, without seriously compromising comfort or common sense. Finally, the 3 Series has embodied consistent product character and values, defining what has become one of the most respected brands among automobile enthusiasts. Given mixed reviews following the launch of BMW's current 5 and 7 Series sedans, anticipation for the 2006 3 Series might be exceeded only by the potential for disappointment.
As consumers we certainly are not disappointed, but as enthusiast drivers we're pensive about the 2006 325i and 330i sedans. At their core these remain true sport sedans, but their sporting heart is a bit more difficult to find.
If we characterized the new 330i with one word, it might be "stuff," even if BMW would prefer "technology." Technology is everywhere in this compact sedan, some of it first-in-class and some not previously applied in any BMW. The 2006 BMW 3 Series offers Active Steering that actually turns the front wheels without driver intervention, not to mention 150-mile run-flat tires, turning bi-xenon headlights and an optional i-Drive interface inside. It's the first car in its class to offer radar-managed active cruise control, and even the standard cruise control will automatically apply the brakes if the 3 picks up too much speed going down a hill.
Technology is not a bad thing, mind you. The 3 Series accounts for 40 percent of BMW's sales worldwide and BMW is a high-tech brand. The car buying public expects technology in its products. Yet after a good test drive we're left to wonder how much technology is appropriate in a 3 Series, and at what point it detracts from the car's original pureness of purpose.
For this year at least, buyers have the unique opportunity of comparing the new with the old. The tires-up overhaul for 2006, including new exterior styling and interiors, more powerful engines, all six-speed transmissions and redesigned suspension, applies only to the 3 Series sedans. Coupes and convertibles are still available, but for now they are built on the previous-generation 3 Series platform, and are more closely related to the 2005 models.
Make no mistake. The 2006 BMW 325i and 330i sedans accelerate more quickly, stop shorter and turn with more lateral grip than the 2005 models. They are roomier, with more standard and optional equipment and more sophisticated electronic controls. For entry-luxury market shoppers who put a premium on driving satisfaction, the BMW 3 Series remains the place to start. We simply recommend that you compare these cars with and without all the new stuff."
Since its introduction in 1977 as a two-door sedan, the BMW 3 Series has evolved into a range of sedans, coupes and convertibles. For the 2006 model year, the line should include at least 10 different models, and the opportunity for confusion may be even greater than usual. That's because through the fall of 2005, only the 325i and 330i four-door sedans will be the all-new 3 Series, codenamed E90 by BMW. The six 2006 coupes and convertibles are still the E46 3 Series that's been in production since 1999. True to BMW tradition, the 325i and 330i sedans are both powered by a 3.0-liter straight six-cylinder engine. Yet their engines are new, and different from those in the coupes and convertibles.
In the 325i sedan ($30,995), the new engine generates 225 horsepower, for an increase of 40 over the 2005 model. The 2006 BMW 325i comes well equipped, with automatic climate and headlight control, a climate-controlled center console, headlight washers, rain-sensing wipers, a power moonroof, 12-speaker AM/FM/CD and the trick new self-braking Dynamic Cruise Control. Burr walnut trim is standard, though the standard upholstery is BMW's Leatherette vinyl. Lighter poplar trim and aluminum are available as no-charge options.
The 330i sedan ($36,995) has a more powerful version of the 3.0-liter six, producing 255 horsepower, or an increase of 30 from 2005. The 330i comes with more standard equipment than the 325i, including eight-way power seats with memory, an auto tilt-down feature for the right side mirror when reverse is engaged, xenon adaptive headlights that turn into a curve with the car, and 13-speaker Logic 7 stereo with two subwoofers and surround-style digital sound processing. Vinyl upholstery is standard.
Safety features that come standard include dual stage front-impact airbags that deploy at different rates depending on the severity of impact, front side-impact airbags and full-cabin head protection airbags. BMW no longer offers rear side-impact airbags on the 3 sedan, on the basis that few buyers took the option, and that the protective benefit does not exceed the risk of airbag related injuries.
Active safety features on all 3 Series models include Dynamic Stability Control anti-skid electronics and the latest generation antilock brakes. The ABS preloads the brake pedal when the driver suddenly lifts off the gas pedal, and includes a feature that lightly sweeps the brake discs dry every 1.5 seconds when its raining.
The most popular option will no doubt be the new six-speed automatic transmission ($1,275). There are also three major option groupings. The Premium Package adds Dakota leather upholstery to the 325i ($2,900) and 330i ($2,200) along with other conveniences, including a Bluetooth cellular phone interface, the tilt-down right side mirror on the 325i, power folding side mirrors, a digital compass in the rear-view mirror and hardware for BMW Assist, the telemetric package that provides safety, convenience and concierge services.
The Sport Package ($1,600) includes sporting suspension calibrations tuned by BMW's M performance division, 10-way sports seats (power adjustable in the 330i) and a wheel/tire upgrade: 17-inch alloys with V-rated performance tires for the 325i; 18-inch with W-rated tires for the 330i. The Sport package and BMW's SMG electro hydraulic manual transmission will be available for the 330i ($1,500) in the fall. The Cold Weather Package ($1,000) adds electrically heated seats, high-intensity headlight washers and a split-folding rear seat with ski sack.
BMW's Active Steering system ($1,250) and radar-managed Active Cruise Control ($2,200) are available as stand-alone options for the first time on the 3 Series. Sirius Satellite Radio hardware ($75) and power rear-window and manual side rear-window sunshades ($575) are available as stand-alones, as are most of the individual components of the three packages, including the split-folding rear seat ($475) and
Walk Around
The previous-generation 3 Series sedans, and the current coupes, have a familiar, distinctive, handsome appearance. The 2006 325i and 330i sedans are certainly recognizable as BMWs in an evolutionary way, but they are also substantially different from their predecessors.
For starters, the new sedans are larger. They're more than two inches longer and three inches wider, and wheelbase has increased 1.4 inches. Most of the increased exterior dimensions translate into more interior space, particularly in the back seat. Moreover, BMW claims the new body is stronger, in that it is more resistant to twisting or bending from road shocks. A rigid structure is crucial to its success and performance in virtually every other respect.
Some reviewers have claimed that the new 3 Series has been spared some of the styling excesses in the BMW 5 and 7 Series cars. Certainly the approach with the 3 Series has been more conservative, and it's easy to understand why. This car accounts for nearly half of BMW 's income. Nonetheless, spared is not a word we'd use for the 2006 3 Series sedans.
The predominant theme in front is BMW's traditional double beam headlights, now under clear covers that wrap around the corners and taper to a point to emphasize the car's width. In profile, the sedan's front and rear overhangs seem even shorter than before. The hood line continues past the windshield pillars all the way to the rear, while the roof line is rounder than before.
Design is the most subjective of all automotive traits, and clearly the 325i and 330i retain some basic BMW qualities or character. Yet in certain respects they also look more generic than their predecessors. The sides are basically flat planes with a single crease below the door pulls and above the wheel wells, but the ends of the car are busier, and we've yet to discover cohesion to the design. Particularly in rear view there are lots of lines, and in this aspect the 3 looks as if it might have been designed in Asia rather than Munich. In short, we're not sure we like it, or at least we're still getting used it.
One thing is certain. Larger wheels and tires filling the wheel wells are almost always a good thing for appearance's sake, and we like the new wheel upgrades (to 17-inch on the 325i and 18-inch on the 330i). The 330i can be distinguished from the 325i by more than its wheels. The 330i's windows and grille slats are trimmed with chrome, while slats across its lower front air intakes are body colored rather than black.
Another sure thing: the new sedan's trunk is larger, and it's another sign that BMW has tried to make the 3 Series more consumer friendly, as well as stylish. Volume has increased from 10.3 to 12 cubic feet, giving the 3 Series trunk space that's more competitive. Moreover, the trunk opening is considerably larger, making it easier to get things inside, and the additional trunk volume does not count a new divided storage bin under the load floor (where a spare might have gone, if not for the new run-flat tires). There's also a drawer hanging under the rear interior shelf to take better advantage of what is often useless space. The new 3 series is still available with a split-folding rear seat and ski sack, expanding cargo space into the rear of the cabin.
The new sedan's co-efficient of drag has been improved as well, meaning that it is more slippery as it cuts through the air. Other things being equal, that means more fuel efficiency, because it takes less power to move the 3 Series at a given speed, and there's less wind noise generated around the car.
The high-tech theme that permeates the 2006 3 Series sedans is even visible from the outside. The 330i comes standard with adaptive halogen headlights that turn with the steering wheel to aim into a curve. All models also have BMW's adaptive brake lights, which are based on the idea that drivers in the cars followi
While we aren't completely enamored with everything in the new 3 Series interior, we have very few gripes. The cabin takes the best of several ideas introduced in the larger BMW 5 and 7 Series sedans, synthesizes them for a smaller car and improves them in the process.
The most obvious change is the starter. The 3 Series sedans no longer have a keyed ignition switch, relying instead on a slot-type key fob and a starter button. The fob goes in a slot next to the steering column, and you push the button to fire up. The Comfort Access option ($500) makes everything automatic. With fob in pocket, the doors unlock automatically as the driver approaches and the seats are waiting in their proper position. The driver just pushes the start button, and pushes it again when it's time to get out.
Seats have always been one of this car's strengths, and the new ones are better than ever. Even the standard-trim front buckets provide excellent support without feeling too hard. The manual adjustments work great, though we recommend using them when the car is parked. The 330i gets power adjustments with three memory positions coded to the key. The 10-way power seats that come with the Sport Package are outstanding. Additional back and bottom bolstering make them a bit harder to slide into, but we'd rather have them during a spirited drive.
The new instrument panels have a pronounced horizontal format, with more community and less driver orientation than before. There are actually two: standard, with a single bubble or hood over the instrument cluster, and optional, with the navigation system. The option dash features a double wave,'' with a second hood above the navigation screen at the top of the center stack.
The front door panels are different, too. The passenger side has a sloped, vertical door pull, while the driver's door lays the door pull horizontally in the arm rest. Moreover, the new doors address one of our biggest gripes with the old 3 Series interior. Window switches are now clustered near the driver's arm rest, where they're easier to locate without glancing, rather than spread around the gear change on the center console.
The soft vinyls and plastics in the new 3 Series sedans are an improvement in both touch and appearance, and they put the car more closely in line with the best cars in this class for materials and workmanship. Burr walnut trim is now standard, and there's a lot of it on the dash and doors. BMW's Leatherette vinyl is not the least bit tacky, though the optional leather is soft, thick and tight. The new 3 follows BMW's tradition of soft orange backlighting for the instruments. Some will like it, some won't.
For the first time, the 3's automatic climate control features separate temperature adjustments for driver and front passenger. There's also a new mist sensor that measures moisture on the windshield and automatically adjusts the defroster, as well as a heat-at-rest feature that keeps the cabin heating for a time after the car is turned off.
The standard in-dash single-CD player is easy to operate and sounds good, with 10 speakers and separate subwoofers under the front seats. We'd have no problem living with it, but the 330i automatically gets an upgrade called Logic 7. This system adds wattage and three speakers, with the latest digital sound processing and surround technology. Audio controls on the steering wheel work well, once they're mastered.
BMW's multi-layer, mouse-style iDrive interface is optional in the new 3 Series sedans, but if you want the DVD-based GPS navigation system, you'll have to take iDrive. We'd probably do without the nav system, and have encountered few people who remotely like iDrive. Yet there is this in BMW's defense: The art of driver-computer interface remains in its infancy, and no one does it very well.
In certain respects the 3 Series cabin is more consumer-friendly"
Driving Impressions
BMW's 3 Series has always been about the driving. It has many of the attributes of a sports car with the practicality of a sedan. It offers rear-wheel drive and manual transmissions in a class increasingly dominated by front-drive and automatics. Driving has never been much better than the 3 Series, or at least not with seating for five, decent mileage and a high level of all-season comfort.
The all-new 2006 BMW 3 Series sedans are true to their predecessors, with a couple of caveats. The typical BMW buyer will likely appreciate the technology built into the new 3, and particularly the electronic stability control wizardry. Purists may pine that some of the 3 Series' original purity has been lost.
The heart of any BMW is its engine, and the one in the new 3 Series is first rate. It remains true to BMW's commitment to inline six-cylinder engines, as other manufacturers have switched almost exclusively to V6s. The straight six presents more packaging challenges, but its unique performance characteristics and smoothness make it a favorite among enthusiast drivers. The 3.0-liter six in both the 325i and 330i sedans has the latest in control and materials technology, including the first mass-production magnesium alloy engine block, to reduce weight. It produces 215 horsepower in the 325i and 255 horsepower in the 330i thanks to different tuning, but in both cases it is substantially more powerful than the engines it replaces. It's the first six cylinder without a conventional throttle. Engine speed, and therefore acceleration, is varied by how far the intake valves open. These engines are lighter, more powerful for their size, and more fuel efficient than those in the coupes and convertibles.
In both the 325i and 330i sedans, the engine is fantastic. No one will feel short-changed on performance if they make the more economical choice. Yet particularly in the 330i, the new engine is a pleasure to operate, and it's stronger than any 3 Series engine before, short of the M3. What's best is its linear quality, or the steady supply of acceleration-producing torque at any speed. There's more torque down low than before, but the new engine pulls like a sprinter all the way to its 6800-rpm redline and never misses a step. Moreover, the joy of a straight-six isn't hidden under the high tech. It sounds great, with an emphasis on clean mechanical noise from the engine bay rather than the tone of the muffler.
The new 3 Series sedans come with a choice of six-speed automatic transmission, six-speed manual or BMW's six-speed electro-hydraulic Sequential Manual Gearbox. The manual transmission works great. The shifter seems to have slightly shorter throws between the gears than before, and its operation is appropriate to a world-class sports sedan. The extra gear adds more flexibility to the power band and lowers engine revs at cruising speeds. The automatic we liked a bit less, but it's hardly disappointing. With six speeds, the same advantages apply here as with the manual. The automatic can be a bit slow to react with an appropriate gear change in Normal mode, but leaving it Sport mode pretty much solves the problem without a significant payback in more abrupt shifting. Then there is Steptronic manual mode, which allows manual gear selection by toggling the shift lever to the left. No problem with shift response when you do it yourself.
BMW's SMG (for sequential manual gearbox) won't be available in the 330i sedan until at least September, but we've used it in other BMWs and know how it works. This is not an automatic transmission per se, and if you put an emphasis on smooth shifts, it should not be your choice. While the Steptronic is an automatic with a manual feature, the SMG is a manual with an automatic feature. It has a clutch but no clutch pedal, and in automatic mode it works as if the machinery is working the clutch for you, which it is. In short, the SMG can be great
Bottom line, the new 3 Series sedans are great performers, impressive cars and techno tours de force. If price is remotely an issue, don't have a second thought about choosing the 325i. It has as much power as most drivers will ever need, and it delivers the same inherent goodness as the 330i, without much less really useful stuff. Indeed, we wouldn't recommend some of the options like Active Steering or Active Cruise Control, except to die-hard fanatics for the absolute latest technology. Remember that through most of calendar 2006, the 3 Series coupes and convertibles will continue as they were for 2005. For the time being, if you want the newest 3 Series technology, you'll have to choose a four-door sedan.
New Car Test Drive correspondent J.P. Vettraino filed this report from Spain.
Top Cars


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Why one of the greatest directors of his generation would even consider doing a the sequel to a superhero movie that was both a commercial and critical failure is anyone's guess, but here we are...
Darren Aronofsky and David Slade are said to be the finalists to helm "X-Men Origins: Wolverine 2," with star Hugh Jackman having a certain amount of say in the matter, according to Deadline.
Slade must recently directed "Twilight:Eclipse," which was a massive hit. Not to take anything away from Slade, but your mom probably could've shepherded that movie across the $250 million line.
U.S. & World
That said, even Slade would admit he's no Aronofsky, who worked with Jackman previously on the 2006 film "The Fountain." Nobody saw it and most folks didn't like it, but the two remain close and apparently Jackman's been talking to Aronofsky about "Wolverine 2."
We're as thrilled as anybody with the rise in quality of superhero films as anyone, but this really is beneath Aronofsky. The world needs his talents perusing projects like the upcoming "Black Swan" and "Pi" and "Requiem for a Dream." Not "Wolverine 2."
By the way, if you have seen the trailer for "Black Swan," starring Natalie Portman, Mila Kunis and Vincent Cassel, watch it -- it looks pretty awesome.


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If someone says to you, "First prize is an all expenses-paid weekend in Detroit," naturally you're going to ask, "What's the second prize?" Ordinarily. But for Villanova and Pittsburgh, these aren't ordinary times, and the Motor City might as well be Club Med or the Isle of Capri. This is why tonight at the Garden the Wildcats and Panthers will be scratching and clawing to get there.
If someone says to you, "First prize is an all expenses-paid weekend in Detroit," naturally you're going to ask, "What's the second prize?"
But for Villanova and Pittsburgh, these aren't ordinary times, and the Motor City might as well be Club Med or the Isle of Capri. This is why tonight at the Garden the Wildcats and Panthers will be scratching and clawing to get there. DETROIT! That's where the Final 4 will be played out, and if you're into college hoops, that's the only place to be. The NCAA could play the Final Four on the moon. Who cares?
Villanova and Pittsburgh are Big East brethren, which means they don't much like each other. They played once this year, the Wildcats winning 67-57. Which of course means nothing tonight, except that it's a proud moment for the conference.
"I think everybody in the Big East likes this," said 'Nova coach Jay Wright. "You know what, if we're not going to win, and get to the Final 4, I'll be glad it's Pitt."
But before anyone could yell "liar," Wright smiled and said, "but I hope it's us."
Villanova took some of the shine off Duke, 77-54, on Thursday, while Pittsburgh took a tougher road by outlasting Xavier, 60-55.
It must have been tiring for both teams to be constantly asked about their first meeting.
"We played bad, but we were still up eight with two minutes to go," said DeJuan Blair.
Anyway, it was a long time ago.
"A lot of changes in two months," said starry Pitt point guard Levance Fields. "Both teams are better than they were two months ago."
The Panthers had foul problems in that game, the 6-7 Blair most significantly. But it's not like that game has been weighing heavily on his mind.
"I don't know what happened a month ago," he smiled, eliciting a round of laughter in the interview room Friday. "This (Villanova) is a bigger game, a bigger stage."
It's no laughing matter as to how much the Panthers desperately need Blair's board work. He rounded up 17 rebounds (eight offensive) in the Xavier game.
Pitt's minutes man is Sam Young, a 6-6 bruiser who doesn't leave the floor much, not that he's complaining.
"To be honest, I don't even think about it. I never want to come out of the game anyway."
Young's 19 points was game-high Thursday night. By the way, Young gets points for being a straight shooter, on and off the court.
Interviewer: What's your first memory of the Big East?
Young: "To be honest, I didn't watch college basketball until I got to college."
Both Pitt and Villanova start three seniors. With both teams from the great state of Pennsylvania, recruiting is a cut-throat business. Dante Cunningham (14 points, 11 rebounds against Duke) is a Villanova stud.
"I remember being in Dante's home, and I thought we were going to get him," said Dixon. "We thought he was going to be a very good player."
He was right, VERY good for somebody else up the road a piece.
Dixon has been coaching for 10 years in the bruising Big East, but he's from the West Coast (born in Burbank, Calif.). His parents were from, of all places, the Bronx. Can't get much further culturally from Burbank than the Bronx. Like Chazz Palminteri, Dixon has a Bronx Tale of his own.
"I was the only guy that summered in the Bronx. We would drive across the country and I would stay with my grandparents in the Bronx. Because of my family and my roots and New York, the Big East has even more of a special meaning than a typical kid out west. … It was a draw to me when I came to Pittsburgh 10 years ago." He was named head coach in 2003.
Dixon played at TCU before he got into the coaching racket. He made stops at Northern Arizona, Hawaii, Cal-Santa Barbara. "Don't forget LA Valley College," he said. "And TeAute College in New Zealand. That was my first coaching job. I coached kids."
He didn't exactly have high-flung ambitions back then. "I wanted to be a California junior college coach. I thought that would be a great way to coach and be around kids. It wasn't about the level. It was about coaching, being around the game, being around the kids and the competition."
The competition tonight is a bit more sophisticated. The welcoming arms of Detroit are spread wide for the winner.
Lenny Megliola is a MetroWest Daily News columnist. His e-mail is firstname.lastname@example.com


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"All Gone: A Memoir of My Mother's Dementia. With Refreshments" (Riverhead), by Alex Witchel
Some seek the comfort of bed or a therapist's couch to ease grief, but author Alex Witchel heads to the kitchen. In her new book, "All Gone: A Memoir of My Mother's Dementia. With Refreshments," Witchel shares the heartbreak of caring for a parent as illness slowly snatches her away.
Witchel, a New York Times food and arts writer, takes comfort in cooking to work through the frustration, anger and unspeakable pain. Finding solace in her spices, preparing meatloaf and potatoes provides consolation and makes her feel connected. "As my mother began the torturous process of disappearing in plain sight, I retreated to my kitchen, trying to reclaim her at the stove," she writes.
The book traces the relationship between Witchel and her mother, who — in many ways — was the great love of her life. The detailed descriptions of her suburban upbringing — from the sights and smells of the kitchen to errand runs in the car — are relatable and nourishing.
Witchel paints a romantic picture of her modern mom — the perfect combination of tender and tough — who rejected the typical housewife role to work and receive her doctorate. She's the kind of mother you wish you had or want to be. As Witchel grew older, she began to recognize her mother's small betrayals, but forgave her and learned to blame her father for the hurt. As an adult building a career, she had a serious boyfriend but admits to gaining more satisfaction from time with her mother.
When her mother starts to show signs of dementia and depression following several ministrokes, Witchel tries everything she can to fix her. Relentlessly thorough and inquisitive at their neurologist visits, she hires an aide and encourages new activities to keep her mind sharp and spirits high. As her mother's condition worsens, Witchel grips tighter, often changing her medications and routines, hoping the busy woman she knew would return.
Several years into the journey, at her mother's request, Witchel finally lets go and surrenders to her mother's inevitable decline. She still copes with the "ambiguous loss": her mother is alive but not who she once was.
Witchel writes beautifully from the heart, but with a journalist's clarity. She moves from past to present dexterously, and like a good reporter, proves her points with cogent memories. She has remarkable talent for describing each player with revealing anecdotes that speak volumes. Her unflinching honesty and humor draw in readers. She's candid about family relationships: indicting her emotionally detached father, exposing a long rift with her sister and disclosing pivotal moments in her marriage to acclaimed writer Frank Rich.
Witchel describes her long goodbye — the fleeting sparks of her mother's old self and the last lucid conversations — in wrenching detail that might make you cry. But her subtle storytelling somehow isn't depressing. One of the book's themes is taking comfort where you can find it: in food, home and relationships. While we may strive for more success, time and perfection, what we really crave is simplicity, safety and reliability to sustain us.
Each chapter of stories is punctuated with a family recipe. Although she's dined with the world's top gourmet chefs, this New York Times foodie still loves a good tuna fish sandwich. She sings the praises of chopped meat and Del Monte canned vegetables without a dash of irony. Making a familiar dish for family is her meditation, her control. While her mother's condition is unpredictable, the roasted chicken is not.
In the midst of her mother's illness, Witchel's sister is diagnosed with cancer, and even the perfect Thanksgiving dinner cannot temper her sorrow. When she realizes she cannot repair all problems, she's able to move forward and return to the warmth of her oven.
Through her sensitive yet powerful prose, Witchel reminds readers that family relationships are precious and time is fleeting. The book may move you to call your mother and tell her you love her while you still can.
Alex Witchel: Taking comfort where she can find it
"All Gone: A Memoir of My Mother's Dementia. With Refreshments" (Riverhead), by Alex Witchel


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2 Republicans vie for Samuel Miller seat
Two men seek the Republican nomination to run for the Ivy-centric Samuel Miller District seat on the Albemarle Board of Supervisors, Charlottesville Tomorrow reports. Philip Melita, a retired human resources staffer with GE Fanuc, and Duane Snow, retired garden center owner, go to the Republican caucus May 26. The winner will face off with Democrat Madison Cummings and independent John Lowry in November for the seat Sally Thomas held four terms, three of which she was reelected unopposed.
2 comments
I wonder what they have to say about the 50-year water supply concept, conservation easements, Unjam, and land use.
Bet Duane Snow is for lots of water no matter what the cost ---the more development the better for his business but Cummings is for the same thing -- free the Moorman's and mimic Sally's position--quite a marriage the Nature Conservancy and unlimited development for the land barons--go figure


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Students and potential students are referred to the Office of Disability Support Services by various publications, such as the St. Bonaventure University application packets, bulletins; and by a variety of people. Other sources of student referrals may be community agency personnel, SBU faculty and staff, high school counselors, health care professionals, family members, students and others.
If the student contacts the Office of Disability Support Services by telephone, mail, or email, the student will be asked to fill out a Disability Support Services Confidential Registration Form and directed to the DSS website. The coordinator of DSS will also request appropriate documentation from the student.
If the student contacts the Office of DSS in person and brings in appropriate documentation and a completed registration form (linked above), an intake meeting will be scheduled.
Once the completed registration form is received, the Coordinator of DSS will contact the student via email to request that the student set up an intake meeting. It is the student's responsibility to call (716) 375-2066 to set up the intake meeting.
The student continues contact with the DSS office for any further assistance.
Return to Disability Services Home Page
Application forms, procedures and additional information
There are many ways to experience
St. Bonaventure for yourself
Learn more about the programs that interest you


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Learn how to sail, with this online sailing course!
You'll get a jump-start on how to sail a yacht, with some theory, learn to sail.
The start of a series of lessons and articles on sailing. For example Man overboard procedure with more articles to come for study on ASA keel boat 101 and US Sailing 101. There will be animations, sketches and flash cards to assist you with your course. The man over board drill will help with a key practice exercise essential to basic Man overboard procedures keelboat training.
There are a number of articles on this site on Boat hulls, the types of boat hulls, Propeller pitch and propeller diameter and some general sailing articles on a sailing trip to Mexico, dinghy's and wing masts. There is also a new article, Man Overboard Procedure or Crew Overboard Procedure which will be one of a series on sailing lessons for ASA or US Sailing. Man Overboard Drill. If you have any suggestions on articles or would like to guest post an article on your site please see the contact page.
I've posted a few articles on DIY refit for a boat; these are mostly based on my ongoing experiences in getting a boat up to cruising state, which still in progress but then a boat always is. Some were more successful than others but we learn as we go along. Articles include a relatively successful attempt to make custom bow thrusters out of a pair of trolling motors. The repowering of a boat (also see the boat speed calculator) and some thoughts on the hybrid electric boat option. A more successful creation of bow sprit for a catamaran to fly a screecher sail, allowing it to sail much closer to the wind. The planning and designing of a hard Bimini. Please note I'm no professional at boat refits and there are many different skill sets involved I've figured things out as I go. If you have any suggestions on articles or would like to guest post an article on your site please see the contact page.
I created the boat hull speed calculator, which has been surprisingly popular, based on some publicly available formulas I researched while trying to figure out what size engine and propeller to use in re-powering my catamaran. I was surprised to see most of the information on this subject was fragmented and not very easy to understand or available. It occurred to me I could combing my programming knowledge with the knowledge I gained in this project and from speaking to a number of sources to create the calculator, free for public use, by anyone attempting to re-power a boat or anyone interested in the characteristics of boat speed. I used this calculator in my boat engine replacement and it was right on the money and I have received good feedback from visitors. Let me know if you have any suggestions or comments. There are a number of supporting pages created for the calculator that are worth reading.


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|1,321 free recipes at www.edenfoods.com
Serves 8 | Prep Time 25 minutes | Cook Time 5 minutes
3 Tbsp Eden Shoyu Soy Sauce
1/4 cup water
1/4 cup Eden Barley Malt Syrup
or organic maple syrup
4 cloves garlic, pressed
1/4 cup Eden Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1/4 cup lemon or orange juice, freshly squeezed
Vegetables & Utensils
1 pound organic seitan (wheat meat), cut into 1 inch chunks (see Eden's recipe for Homemade Seitan, or purchase prepackaged)
16 organic cherry tomatoes
1 medium onion, sliced into wedges
1 medium red bell pepper, sliced into thick strips or large chunks
1 medium zucchini, sliced into chunks
8 medium button mushrooms, cut in half
16 thick bamboo skewers
or metal skewers
Prepare the marinade by blending the shoyu, water, malt syrup, garlic, olive oil and lemon juice. Pour into a shallow baking dish. If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes before using to prevent them from burning on the grill. Place equal portions of all vegetables and seitan chunks on the skewers. Place the skewers in the marinade, turning them periodically, and allow to marinate for 20 minutes. Place kebobs on a grill rack and brush them with remaining marinade. Cook about 5 minutes, turning occasionally. Remove and place on a serving platter. Delicious served with Eden's Minted Quinoa with Crunchy Pine Nuts. Please see recipe.
Tofu, tempeh or seafood may be substituted for the seitan in this recipe. If using tempeh, boil for 15 minutes before grilling.


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100 Years of Grand: The Grand Canyon Centennial Project
A digital archive celebrating the Centennial of the Grand Canyon National Park. A collaborative project of the Arizona State University Library, Cline Library, Northern Arizona University and the Grand Canyon National Park. Additional materials are available via the project website.
- 1 English
Mime Type
- 1 Public
- Camping
- Hayden, Carl Trumbull, 1877-1972
- Camp Fire Club of America
- 1 Grand Canyon National Park (Ariz.)
- 1 Legislation
Date Range
1914 1914
- Tertiary History of the Grand Cañon District with Atlas
- History of the Grand Canyon National Park
- Stage Coach Trip to the Grand Canyon, 1895, by Josephine Frankenberg of Tempe
- Letter from A. E. Demaray, National Park Service to Carl Hayden
- Letter from Carl Hayden to J. R. Eakin, Grand Canyon National Park
Letter from The Camp Fire Club of America urging Carl Hayden to introduce a bill that would grant National Park status to the Grand Canyon.
- Contributors
- Gaines, John W., Hayden, Carl T.
- Created Date
- 1914-12-04


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EX Delta Species (TCG)(Redirected from Holon Research Tower (TCG))
EX Delta Species (Japanese: ホロンの研究塔 Holon Research Tower) is the name given to the first expansion of cards of the Delta Species era of the Trading Card Game and the eleventh EX Series expansion.
In Japan, Holon Research Tower was released after Mirage Forest; however, due to a translation issue, the English-language sets' releases were switched, causing the set to be released in the United States and the United Kingdom just three days after its release in Japan. However, due to Pokémon Organized Play's prereleases, for the first time in the history of the TCG, the entire set was available in English before it was in Japanese.
Similar to cards belonging to Team Magma, Team Aqua and Team Rocket, the card layout was visually enhanced for δ Delta Species Pokémon: -
- δ Delta Species Pokémon have a character window with a "double helix" effect.
- They have "δ Delta Species" next to the character name.
- They sport a "δ" symbol where the evolution stage is situated, with the evolution window being part of the "δ" in Stage 1 and Stage 2 Pokémon.
The set introduces the Holon Research Tower, located in the middle of the Mirage Forest (which was introduced in EX Legend Maker, hence why it was to be released before Delta Species); it is the home of scientists who conduct research on Mew and strange new Pokémon. These Pokémon have been altered by a wave of electromagnetic radiation produced by an experiment gone awry at Holon labs. The result is a new species of Pokémon called the Delta Species, symbolized by the lower-case delta (δ). These new Pokémon possess types different from their original and some, in their fully evolved forms, are partially Metal-types. They could be considered a counterpart to Dark Pokémon in the EX series. EX Delta Species also introduces Holon's Pokémon, which are unique as they can double as Special Energy cards, and new Trainer cards which centralize themselves around the Holon Tower community.
- This set contains only 3 Pokémon-ex, the lowest of any set in the EX series.
- The Holofoil rare design changed exclusively for δ Delta Species Pokémon, with the card border and Pokémon itself featuring a plain Holofoil treatment.
- The reverse-Holofoil design for this set is similar to that of the new Holofoil rare treatment, with same foil used but only on the background image. In addition to the background, name text and rarity symbol, the reverse-Holofoil versions of the Holofoil rares now have a Holofoil border and HP text. All reverse-Holofoil feature the EX Delta Species set logo.
- The secret box topper card for this set is Azumarill.
- The prerelease card for this set is Metang δ.
Set lists
Pack artwork
In other languages
|This article is part of Project TCG, a Bulbapedia project that aims to report on every aspect of the Pokémon Trading Card Game.


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In-N-Out, the Southern California burger restaurant, has severed its ties with a Central California slaughterhouse under investigation by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
The fast food chain bought beef from the Central Valley Meat Co. of Hanford, Calif., until the USDA closed the plant Monday.
Federal regulators received a video that authorities said appears to show workers bungling the slaughter of cows struggling to walk and even stand. The USDA says it's investigating. Read about the case here.
U.S. & World
Mark Taylor, chief operating officer, said Tuesday his company "severed our supplier relationship" upon becoming aware of the situation.
He said suppliers must agree in writing to not distribute beef from sick cattle and to abide by standards for humane treatment of cattle.
The video was handed over to the USA on Friday by an animal welfare group "Compassion Over Killing."
The video shows animals bleeding and thrashing after being repeatedly shot in the head with a pneumatic gun in unsuccessful efforts to render them unconscious for slaughter according to the Associated Press.
Under federal regulations, sick animals cannot be slaughtered for human consumption.
Of the total Central Valley Meat Co.'s production, only 6 to 7 percent goes to In-N-Out, a company spokesman said. The rest goes to processing plants and school programs.
Central Valley Meat Co., owned by Brian and Lawrence Coelho, declined to comment on the video, saying company officials had not seen it.
On Tuesday the company hired a public relations firm, which issued a statement saying the company is cooperating with investigators.
"Central Valley Meat is working closely with the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service to address animal-handling concerns arising from a covert video provided to USDA by an animal rights group. Central Valley Meat takes these issues very seriously and is now developing a plan of action to present to FSIS to remedy any potential violations of USDA guidelines.
Based on our own investigation and 30 years of producing safe, high-quality US beef, we are confident these concerns pose no food safety issues. We take these allegations very seriously and will immediately address any concerns the USDA may have," the company said.
Follow NBC 7 for the latest news, weather, and events: iPad App | iPhone App | Android App | Facebook | Twitter | Google+ | Instagram | RSS | Text Alerts | Email Alerts


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The way you speak in primary school reveals if you will stay behind in your native part of the country or head for the big city to get an education. This is one of the conclusions in University of Copenhagen linguist Malene Monka's new PhD thesis.
"My research shows that young people, who end up moving away from their native area to seek an education and career elsewhere, change the way they speak already in their early youth. They speak less dialect than comparable peers at the same age," Malene Monka from LANCHART at University of Copenhagen explains.
During the late 70's and 80's, a group of Danish linguists conducted interviews with a large group of informants who were finishing primary school. Now, together with a colleague from The University of Southern Denmark, Malene Monka has re-interviewed the same informants.
She compared six mobile informants (that is, people who have moved away) with a group of informants that have stayed behind in their native area. Subsequently, she analyzed and compared a large number of different dialectal traits in the new and the old interviews. Her research has been conducted in three different municipalities in three different parts of Denmark.
Standard Danish is the language of the school
The language comparison of the mobile and the settled informants showed that there was a big difference in the spoken language of the two groups of informants – even long before the mobile informants had moved to the city. The informants were of the same age, sex and social class and still the difference was significant.
"When I started finding the dialect traits, it became clear that the ones that would eventually move away spoke less dialect while they were living in their native area. Even though they had precisely the same background as the informants who stayed behind. Linguistically you prepare to move long before your mind is aware of it, Malene Monka says and offers an explanation of the phenomenon:
"The, maybe somewhat boring, explanation is that the Danish school system is made for standard Danish. If you want to make it in the educational system, you need to speak standard Danish. It permeates the language society and you do not even need to be aware of what you are doing. Standard Danish is the language of the school."
PhD Malene Monka
LANCHART – Centre for Language Change in Real Time
University of Copenhagen
Phone: + 45 50 90 60 10
Press officer Carsten Munk Hansen
Phone: + 45 28 75 80 23


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Aqua Restaurant Croydon
The menu in this contemporary addition to the restaurant scene in Croydon offers a mouth watering selection of Mediterranean dishes using combining fresh, simple ingredients with a genuine love for creating exquisite cuisine, click here to find us.
Mediterranean Meze Bar and Grill CroydonAqua Mediterranean Meze Bar and Grill is the creation of two highly experienced chefs, Dasos Charalambous and Dario Nardo, both of whom have trained and worked in some of London's top hotels, and seized the chance to open their own restaurant when the right premises came up in South End.
Our aim is to offer people a place where they can enjoy quality food, at reasonable prices in a place where they can sit and chill.
says DasosThe food is first class. It's nothing too fancy - just simple, quality food cooked to perfection, and presented beautifully. You'll find a good choice of everything from 28 day matured steak and tender braised lamb shanks to roasted sea bass and seared scallops. Find out more about our menus. The attentive staff ensure that each visit to Aqua Mediterranean Meze Bar and Grill is a special one - you won't be disappointed! We also cater for a wide variety of special events and private dining.


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About two weeks ago, the Dutch High Tech Crime Unit released news of its successful botnet sting in late July. Now, we're starting to see American law enforcement file related charges, as investigators crack down on both sides of the Atlantic. The Department of Justice reports that a New Orleans grand jury has formally indicted Brazilian Leni de Abreu Neto on a charge of conspiracy to cause damage to computers worldwide. Counting the two native Dutch brothers, a total of three people have been arrested thus far.
The Dutch man, 19 year-old Nordin Nasiri, has not yet been indicted, but Dutch prosecutors are interviewing him, presumably with the intent to file charges. As for Neto, he was picked up in the Netherlands, and will be transferred to the US pending the results of an extradition hearing.
Back when the Shadow story first broke, it wasn't immediately clear whether the investigation had been a Dutch operation or if the FBI had cooperated; several stories mentioned that the FBI had assisted but provided no details. The DoJ's statement confirms that this was a joint investigation between the Cyber Squad of the FBI's New Orleans field office, the Dutch High Tech Crime Unit, and the Cyber Section of the Brazilian Federal Police. It's not clear which of these agencies launched the initial investigation, but it appears that Shadow's cover was blown when Nasiri contacted Neto to broker the sale of his botnet. Shadow, incidentally, never sold—Neto's asking price of €25,000 was higher than market value for what amounted to an ordinary malware distribution system.
The authorities' successful campaign to shut down Shadow is the latest in a number of successful international security investigations. In the future, this type of cooperation may become the rule as police around the world link up to crack down on fraudulent operations. Botnets are, by their very nature, international organizations; a mainland Chinese company could hire an American-owned botnet with space on the Russian Business Network to launch spam attacks against a Taiwanese competitor. Investigating such a situation is far easier when the relevant authorities work together, and a string of successful security operations could begin moving governments in that direction.


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Weather Blog: Thunderstorm and severe weather chances
Thank you for stopping by the Weather Watch 12 blog! A quick warm-up into the 80s will be short-lived as thunderstorms and cooler temperatures loom. In today's blog we discuss the timing of thunderstorms and how far temperatures fall.
After a rare warm day with ample sunshine, the next round of unsettled weather will take aim at southern Wisconsin beginning Wednesday.
Quiet weather should hold through Tuesday night. By the time the morning commute arrives on Wednesday, expect thickening clouds with a chance of showers and thunderstorms to follow. The best bet for storms will arrive after 7 or 8am. Futurecast below valid at 10am Wednesday shows a cluster of showers and thunderstorms over southeast Wisconsin.
This complex of thunderstorms sweeps through quickly providing a chance of downpours, lightning, and potentially strong winds. The exact path the storms track will be key, as a slight shift to the north or south may mean some locations in our area see little to no rain.
As the potential thunderstorms push east, we should see a break in precipitation with temperatures in the low 70s.
An afternoon round of showers and thunderstorms will likely develop with a warm front residing just to our south. The focus for round 2 looks to be near and south of the Wisconsin and Illinois border. Futurecast below is valid at 5pm showing most of the rain staying south. Just a slight shift north and Milwaukee may see more rain by late afternoon!
The Storm Prediction Center has outlined southeast Wisconsin as an area that may potentially see strong storms on Wednesday. The main threat would be strong winds, most likely with the first complex of storms in our area. The SPC probabilistic graphic below shows roughly a 30% chance of severe weather within 25 miles of a point on Wednesday. This is still a fairly low chance of seeing severe weather.
Rain totals will vary greatly on Wednesday, but some locations that see thunderstorms will have rain totals of 0.50"-1.00" by the end of Wednesday.
Look for updates on the severe weather threat on WISN 12 News at 5, 6, & 10pm and live tracking of the storms on WISN 12 News this Morning Wednesday from 4:30-7am.
For more weather updates throughout the day follow me on Twitter @jnelsonweather
Have a great day!
Jeremy Nelson


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I-64 shootings: Slade Woodson pleads-- for new attorney
Slade Allen Woodson was expected to arrive in court this morning to plead guilty to some or all of the 15 felony counts he racked up from a March 27 shooting spree that closed Interstate 64. Instead, he had a change of heart about his counsel after talking to an unidentified lawyer over the weekend.
"I want to ask for a new attorney," said a clean-shaven Woodson, 20, sitting beside his court-appointed attorney, Public Defender Jim Hingeley. "I don't feel I've had sufficient counseling."
Woodson mentioned not receiving documents he'd requested,and noted that the case will "determine the rest of my life."
Hingeley told Albemarle Circuit Court Judge Cheryl Higgins that it would be inappropriate to detail the things he and Woodson had discussed, but said, "I disagree with most of what Mr. Woodson says."
Hingeley told the court he found out Monday that Woodson had been in contact with another attorney, but he declined to identify the interloping lawyer.
On November 10 in Waynesboro, Woodson was sentenced to two years for firing into buildings, including one that was occupied, during a beer-fueled, orange Gremlin-driving rampage with 16-year-old Crozet teen Brandon Dawson.
"I made numerous trips to Middle River Jail," said Hingeley. "I counseled him extensively about this case. I made a large investment of my time," he added, which amounted to "very extensive work over many weeks." Hingeley has represented Woodson since he was arraigned eight months ago.
Judge Higgins asked Woodson whether he needed more time, "or is there a problem with the relationship?"
"I believe there is a problem with the relationship," said Woodson, who told the judge he felt like he was being prosecuted rather than defended by his lawyer. "I don't feel comfortable at all to put my life in his hands."
Commonwealth's Attorney Denise Lunsford told the court that Hingeley and his staff had spent hours in her office reviewing documents.
Higgins ruled that Hingeley is out, and she appointed Jessica Smith to represent Woodson, and a new trial date will be scheduled December 18.
Hingeley confirmed that Woodson was scheduled to plead guilty. As for the change in counsel, "It's certainly unusual," said Hingeley. "It doesn't happen a lot, and it happens more often in tough cases. This is a tough case."
Update December 5: A statement inaccurately attributed to Hingeley has been corrected in this version, as well as one that misstated which lawyer had not been to see Woodson in jail.
7 comments
The only thing tough about this case is that a good ol boy white guy from the county got caught doing something incredibly stupid and deadly and now thinks he shouldn't have to pay the price and that a jury of his white peers will let him off. As a white law abiding man I take offense. Let him rot in jail and let's send the correct message to the public that race is not relevant in sentencing and punishment. I'm not saying make an example of him, but use the same guidelines that would apply were he to have been a non-white. Lady Justice needs her blindfold.
Yikes, bee-atch justice done lost her blindfold a long time ago! Race is moot here! Give a poorly educated guy named Slade too many Old Milwaukees, a gun and--worst of all--an orange Gremlin, and bad things are going to happen. Slade-o's a sure master of understatement: "I don't feel I've had enough counseling." God, if I had a dime for every time I said that to my shrink. I say...blame society as a whole with Charles Manson as a contributor, put him into "house arrest"...I think a run-down single wide with a half-inflated, algae-ridden above ground pool in the front and a lime green Maverick sans wheels on cinder blocks on the side might be just the right "house."
Maybe he's afraid that Hingesley will "lose" him for a couple of weeks and blame it on Paul Garrett.
How interesting that is perfectly acceptable to mock Southern accents as if they are undeniably indicative of unintelligence and bigotry. Not only is it hypocritical to defend the rights of African-Americans by insulting those of Caucasians but the mere suggestion that as long as Woodson appears before an all White jury he will be acquitted is remarkably imbecilic. I'm curious as to whether your comment hoping Woodson will "rot in jail" would be at all permissible if talking about a Black defendant. Furthermore, if you had any basic understanding of the precedents established in the criminal justice system in central Virginia regarding these types of cases with defendants with the criminal history of Woodson you'll find there is hardly a discrepancy in sentencing as pertaining to race. So while you may feel your lofty "Lady Justice" admonishment was well-warranted I can assure you it was nothing but a pitiful attempt to appear to be somewhat educated on this subject matter.
How Interesting that you hide behind 'case law' without citing any. Apparently thou hast thine head up thy ass or thou wouldst know that African Americans committing terrorism don't get a second chance. Hmm, how interesting.
Yikes, not only do you appear to lack intelligence but maturity as well. To rebut simply, you are the one making the outrageous claim that all cases involving African Americans committing acts of terrorism are not given a "second chance," whatever that means (couldn't remember the word 'appeal?'). So if you would like to cite any cases in which the defendant is acquitted or given lighter sentencing for being white, I encourage you to try to find them. As a Black law-abiding man, and a one-time criminal justice lawyer, I can assure you with full confidence that once you realize how incredibly ill-matched for any argument in which you wish to engage with me, you'll discontinue feigning expertise in a situation in which you apparently have but a miniscule understanding.
And if you think it's classy to get angry and write profanity on a news website about a correction I make concerning your ignorant and blatantly dogmatic remarks, I cannot say that I would like to have a person of your character defending the rights of African Americans.
Folks, stop sniping! That's Slade's purview. I am going to spank you both. How Interesting, is the sound card broken on my computer or something? I heard no Southern Accent (by the way, a pretty good Tom Petty album, if you choose to listen). Additionally, you wax oxymoronically with the "law abiding...criminal justice lawyer line. And Yikes, if you insist on plying Latin on this fine site without italicizing your references, I will have the webmaster force you to listen to Latin music ad nauseum on an ad hoc basis since he owes me a quid pro quo. Now put that in your corpus delectus and let it germinate!


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Chicago Sun-Times published this deansguide article 2-08-09
In my post "Job Seekers How Do You Organize Your Day?" I ask the reader to identify whether they were making 10 mistakes in their job search. As a follow up to this article I want to outline a day in the life of a job seeker who utilizes social media for their job search efforts. No resumes are sent in the making of this day-just value.
Daily Structure for Job Seekers Utilizing Social Media
1. 8:00am Check email:
2. 8:30am Check Google Reader: Job Seekers should have their feed reader filled with the following resources:
a.) Blogs authored by companies that are on your company target list
b.) Linkedin Q&A, where you can follow relevant information to your targeted niche
c.) Blogs authored by associations or networking blogs within your field of interest
d.) Twitter feeds from recruiters, career strategists, and your local job market news agencies
3. 9:30am Linkedin: Create a new message in the "What are you working on" tool on your home page. This tool provides exposure of your activities to your entire network:
4. 9:45am Linkedin: Ask or Answer a Question to demonstrate your expertise
5. 10:30am Blog: Check your blog stats, answer any comments, monitor traffic for each blog article within the last week, check keyword and Referrers sections
6. 11:00am Write Article: Choose a subject from the research you performed in your Google Reader and email check.
7. 11:45am Lunch-Twitter: Broadcast your new article & mine for article resources
8. 12:45pm Social Media Networking: Deliver your value by leaving link(s) to your article(s) on your targeted company's blog(s), mass media blogs, industry association sites, and influential blogs comment sections. Ex below Ryan Phillipenko left a link (in red) to his blog .
9. 2:00pm Check Email-Twitter: Return all messages and reach out to one new contact
10. 2:30pm Research Networking: Look for offline networking meetings, events, meetups, tweetups, and charity events
11. 3:30pm Cold Calls: Call your network and offer your value. Offer to volunteer, provide free services, or offer any breaking news or resources that will help your networking partners
12. 4:00pm Twitter: Tweet your latest article, leave at least 5 new messages with valuable resource links, connect via conversation with at least 3 new people
13. 4:45pm Review Monster.com & Careerbuilder.com: stay connected to these sites
14. 5:15pm Linkedin Answer Follow up: Look for follow up to questions that are niche specific to your job search.
15. 5:45pm Read One Social Media Blog: Read at least one current article from social media experts Chris Brogan, Guy Kawasaki, Peter Kim, Pat Kitano, or InnerArchitect