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The Scholars Portal Project: A June 2004 Update
Sarah Michalak is university librarian and associate provost for university libraries at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She can be reached at email@example.com.
Mary E. Jackson is director of collections and access programs, Association of Research Libraries (ARL). She can be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com.
The Scholars Portal Project, a collaborative project among seven members of the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) and Fretwell-Downing, Inc. (FD), evolved from discussions at the 1999 ARL/OCLC Strategic Issues Forum where the concern that libraries needed to maintain a presence on the Web was voiced. ARL subsequently established the ARL Scholars Portal Working Group and Jerry Campbell, dean of the University of Southern California Libraries, articulated the need and called for collaborative action among ARL members in his 2002 white paper.
Announced in May 2002, the project is a three-year collaborative effort between FD and the University of Arizona (UA), Arizona State University (ASU), University of California-San Diego (UCSD), Dartmouth College, Iowa State University (ISU), University of Southern California (USC) and the University of Utah. The participants have implemented ZPortal, Z2Web and several other FD products. FD is contributing development resources to enhance the products, and at the end of the project, the final products will be tested against the vision articulated by the ARL Scholars Portal Working Group. The initial focus of the project was cross-domain searching, but the participants hope to be able to link to online learning environments, digital references services, etc. The project will also test new models of collaboration in a complex, technical environment.
All sites have functional implementations. ASU, UA, ISU and Utah have released the software campus-wide, and the other three sites have limited releases. Over the first 18 months of the project, participants installed software, learned how to select and configure Web targets, established organization and communication channels, and began identifying areas for additional development. A two-part organization structure manages the project. The Project Managers Group (PMG), which includes one representative from each participant, handles the day-to-day issues. The PMG is co-chaired by Krisellen Maloney, UA, and Fred Gulden, ISU. The overall project direction is managed by the program board, which includes the project managers, the library deans and directors, and representation from FD and ARL.
Each site has the ability to configure and customize the software to meet local needs. Since authentication is a key component of the implementation, several variations have emerged. Dartmouth adopted PKI and USC adopted Shibboleth. UCSD and several others are exploring how to integrate an external OpenURL resolver, while ISU has implemented FD's OpenURL resolver, OL2.
In spring 2004 the sites began installing version 3.0 of ZPortal. This version provides the foundation for the additional development contributed by FD as well as providing an IP authentication capability. Participants have continued to identify and agree on Web targets and now have a critical mass of key Web resources. FD is learning how to do multiple, and sometimes simultaneous, software installations.
The Project Managers Group has identified three areas of additional FD development. First, the group wants to integrate ZPortal and course or learning management software. As defined, the development will permit a portlet to be added to any Web or courseware page and, from the courseware page, will permit searching of an existing profile in ZPortal. A second area relates to increased support for standard targets, with the ability to move between the native search screen and the ZPortal screen. This area of development will provide a bridge between OAI-compliant resources and the ZPortal software. Result set management is the third development priority. Participants anticipate this enhancement will permit sorting based on date and availability of full-text, enable a more unified presentation of OpenURL results and holdings within the bibliographic record, and integrate the OpenURL resolver with interlibrary loan and document delivery functionality.
Although much of the focus has been technical in nature, the project managers have benefited from the collaborative nature of the project. Working together, the managers and their staff have developed an open and regular communication channel among the participants. They have traded tips and hints on technical challenges and have served as resources for others. For the information technology (IT) staff, this project has provided a unique testbed environment where they are able to work with their peers on cutting-edge technology. The participants have had an opportunity to experiment with metasearching technology and contribute to the national discussions about metasearching.
This brief summary highlights only a few of the key elements of the Scholars Portal Project. The participants are posting regular status reports and updates on the Scholars Portal Project page. In addition, the ARL Portal Applications Working Group's survey report, The Current Status of Portal Applications in ARL Libraries: ARL Portal Applications Working Group Final Report, includes additional details on specific participants.
Copyright © 2004, American Society for Information Science and Technology


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STOCKTON - Andy Smith, who has had success as an associate field hockey coach at Dartmouth and Cal, has been named Pacific's new head coach.
STOCKTON - Andy Smith, who has had success as an associate field hockey coach at Dartmouth and Cal, has been named Pacific's new head coach.
Smith replaces Linda MacDonald, whose contract was not renewed after it expired in December. MacDonald spent 15 seasons as Pacific's head coach and 11 as an assistant, but the Tigers were just 10-44 in her final three seasons. Smith spent last season at Cal competing against Pacific in the NorPac Conference and was chosen after a national search.
"As I put my name forward, I drew up a list of things we needed to do to be competitive," Smith said. "I just wanted to make sure my vision of the program coincided with what they wanted to do."
Smith said Pacific athletic director Ted Leland assured him necessary resources would be provided for the Tigers to be competitive with Cal and Stanford in the region. Smith said getting a FieldTurf surface to replace Brookside Field is a must, but there still isn't a firm timetable for when that would happen.
Smith, who will officially begin his tenure Monday, plans to move from Berkeley to Stockton with his wife, Jess, and 2-year-old daughter Ellie over the next month and coach his first game in August. The Tigers went 5-14 last season.
Pacific salvaged the finale of its season-opening three-game series against San Jose State over the weekend, winning 8-1 at Klein Family Field on Sunday. The Tigers will look to continue that momentum when they host the Pacific Invitational over the next four days, welcoming UNLV and Gonzaga to Klein Family Field for a round-robin format beginning against the Rebels at 6 p.m. today.

subset: commoncrawl


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Teton Valley Community School of Teton Science Schools is a project-based, independent school located on a 10-acre campus in Victor, ID. We aim to educate the whole child by integrating academic engagement and character development with a community focus. Students in pre-school through 8th grade engage in a challenging curriculum that builds core academic knowledge. We use authentic projects to hone investigation, collaboration and problem-solving skills. These projects inspire children to invest in their own learning.
The school offers a creative and vibrant learning community in which students feel comfortable taking intellectual risks, participating in conflict resolution and practicing their leadership skills. Because of small class sizes, students receive individual attention from their teachers and are encouraged to learn at their own pace.
Students become active participants as they explore their world, ask and answer their own questions, and express unique thoughts and ideas. Parents play a critical role in the education of their children, as strong partnerships with teachers are carefully cultivated.


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One Family's Tragedy - Video
Pharmacist Rob Albers tells the story of his 89-year-old dad, whose medication accident left him paralyzed from the waist down.
A resource from:Home Instead Senior Care
Pharmacist Rob Albers tells the story of his 89-year-old dad, whose medication accident left him paralyzed from the waist down.
The questions can seem endless: What medications are you on? Do you have allergies? Is there a living will? Who has power of attorney? Any time your mom or dad winds up in the emergency room, doctor's office or hospital, there's much those professionals need to know about your parents. So do you, especially if your parents can't speak for themselves.Lack of information can certainly be trouble for you when the time comes to assist your aging loved ones. For Mom and Dad, though, the wrong information can be deadly.That's why family caregivers like you should be ready to be a supporter of your parents, helping them when it's time to provide those important details. The following resources could be a life-saver.
The Home Instead Senior Care® network's Senior Emergency KitSM can help ensure that family caregivers like you have fast and easy access to important information about loved ones in case of an emergency call.
As part of the Answering the CallSM program, Home Instead has developed this list of tools to track all aspects of your senior loved ones' care. Each tool offers different capabilities and features that are designed to help you coordinate and manage your caregiving. Give them a try, then add comments and rank them to help others as they navigate through the senior care maze. If you would like to suggest another tool, please email our social media advocate, Cat Koehler, at [email protected].
Dr. Amy D'Aprix discusses being prepared with your senior loved one's medical information should a medical emergency arise. Details include tips on being prepared using Home Instead's Senior Emergency Kit, dealing with your emotions in a medical crisis, and preparing for your loved one's return home following a medical event.
Older adults often find themselves with more than one doctor managing their care. Research shows that seniors can put themselves at risk with multiple medications from several doctors. Check out the practical advice below along with the Home Instead Senior Care network's Senior Emergency KitSM at www.senioremergencykit.com
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Find home care near you or your loved one:


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Dr. Roger Duvivier Montefiore Medical Park1695 Eastchester RoadBronx, NY firstname.lastname@example.com
Associate Professor, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Women's Health
Dr. Roger Duvivier, Einstein class of '74, is an Associate Professor of Obs and Gyn & Women's Health at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center. He had begun doing volunteer work in Global Health/International Medicine when he was a medical student here at Einstein. He had spent several months in the High Lands of Guatemala, in Chimaltenango, Atitlan, Solola, Uzpantan and other Maya Indian communities served by the Behrhorst Clinic during his "electives in Tropical and Rural Medicine" as a third/fourth year medical student. He had returned to help out these very poor Mayan communities in 1976, during his Ob-Gyn residency, in the aftermath of a massive earthquake which had devastated the country and killed more than 20,000 people.
In recent years, Dr. Duvivier has gone back to Guatemala frequently and also spent periods of 2 to 4 weeks volunteering in Port-au-Prince, Haiti on behalf of the Medical Relief Missions of the Association of Haitian Physicians Abroad (AMHE) and in a small impoverished town in the north of Haiti called Milot on behalf of the Overseas Medical Assistance Team (OMAT). He has remained active in Global Health throughout the past decade; he served as the Second Vice President of the Association des Medecins Haitiens a l' Etranger (AMHE) for several years and has maintained contact with many of the leaders in Global Health like Dr. Jean Bill Pape of GHESKIO, Dr. Paul Farmer of Partners in Health, Dr. Edward O'Neil of OmniMed, Dr. Arthur Fournier of Project Medishare for Haiti.
He would like to continue providing "clinical services" and reproductive health education first and foremost to girls and women of Guatemala and Haiti; if possible, he plans to continue to involve, assist, supervise, mentor Einstein medical students in some of his projects and those of the Global Women's Health Division of his Department of Obs-Gyn & Women's Health under the leadership of Drs. Irwin Merkatz . Two of his clinical-educational-research projects focus on reducing maternal-infant mortality and morbidity thru contraception-family planning and on reducing cervical cancer thru "VIAA-cryo and HPV screening"'. (visual inspection with acetic acid and human papilloma virus screening)
He has recently started collaborating on a " global tele-medical education project" with McGill, Dartmouth, Universite de Montreal, Brown and other partners.
Guatemala, Haiti & Einstein Global Women's Health sites


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R.I.P. Helen Gurley Brown: A Compendium Of The Original Cosmo Girl's Best Quotes
Trailblazing Cosmopolitan editor Helen Gurley Brown passed away earlier today at the advanced age of 90, proving that a commitment to hard work, hard penises, and pretzel-like sex moves can help you live a long and happy life. You can say what you like about the more problematic aspects of her ideology (and I have), but the fact is that if it weren't for Helen Gurley Brown, I might not be posting on this ladyblog right now, because "women's media" as we know it would not be the same. As an instigator of the sexual revolution and a champion of certain aspects of feminism, this woman did much to propagate the then-radical ideas that women were just as competent as men and furthermore, could enjoy sex as much as men, without succumbing to any of those "ruined woman" tropes that had been oppressing us for so long. She was also eminently quotable! And so, without further ado, I give you some of Helen Gurley Brown's best quotes on life, love, gender politics, and money.
Top photo: WENN.com; Gallery photos: Cosmopolitan


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Searching for Size: Size 42N, ...
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This is the ultimate full support bra. Gives firm support, great for under all fashions including those low cut tops! 36-46 DDD,G,H, 34-46 I J,K 34-44L 34-42 M,N Fawn,Nude,Black,Scarlet,Chocolate & Seasonal Colours upon request
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This is the ultimate full support soft cup. Allows you to be confident, comfortable and supported all day long. 36-48 DD,DDD,G 34-48,H,I,J 34-46 K,L,M Nude & Black


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Sweden is considering passing a new law which would put limitations on advertising for formula. If passed, the law would forbid formula ads from showing pictures of babies and would restrict formula advertising to scientific journals only. Free samples and discounts on formula would also be nixed, as would any claim that formula is just as healthy as breastfeeding.
Plus: The Most Common Breastfeeding Problems and Solutions
The Swedish government proposed the law to align with the World Health Organization's recommendation of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life.According to Sweden's news site The Local, 90 percent of Swedish moms breastfeed—but many do so because they feel forced to follow the "breast is best" mantra, even if breastfeeding is difficult for them. Like the pro-breastfeeding "Latch on NYC" initiative introduced earlier this year in New York City, the Swedish law is getting pushback from moms who (for whatever reason) can't or won't breastfeed.
Plus: One Mom's Take on Why Latch on NYC is Not the Answer
Do you think this law is a good way to encourager moms to breastfeed—or is it just another way to lay on mom guilt? Tell us in the comments.


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As 2012 comes to an end, we're beginning to get an idea of what's to come for Apple's recently released tablets and smartphones. Two new reports have put Apple's iPad Mini and iPhone 5 into perspective for 2013.
The Cupertino, Calif.-based company is reportedly accelerating its plans for a second-generation iPad Mini, CNET reports. A research note from RBC Capital Markets analyst Doug Freedman shared this news, although his memo did not specify when Apple would consider launching the device.
"iPad Mini Gen-2: Apple's gen-2 iPad mini is getting pulled-in, and is likely to have several new suppliers, the TXN gaining content," Freedman's notes read.
This isn't the first time rumors have surfaced about a second-generation iPad Mini. Although the 7.9-inch slate was just released in October, rumors have indicated that its successor will feature Apple's Retina Display technology. Earlier in December, supply chain sources allegedly told DigiTimes that Apple plans to enhance the resolution of its next miniature iPad.
These unnamed sources have not confirmed that this refers to Retina Display, but market observers have reportedly told the website that the second iPad Mini will be based on previous generations of the full-sized iPad.
As for the iPhone 5, recent data shows that Apple's latest smartphone has gained traction among business users. Email account manager Intermedia has revealed that Apple's iPhone accounts for 68.2 percent of smartphone activations by medium and small businesses from September through November. The company collected this data from the 500,000 premium hosted accounts that it oversees, according to Apple Insider.
Phones based on Google's Android software came in second at 25.1 percent, and Research In Motion's BlackBerry came in third at 4.1 percent. Windows Phone placed last, accounting for only 2.6 percent of smartphones recently activated by business users. Apple's prominence in this sector of the mobile market doesn't come as much of a surprise. Although Android comprises most of the general market share, its fragmented operating system doesn't prove to be a good choice for business users. Apple's iPhone, on the other hand, features a platform that is more secure and seamless than its Google competitor.
It's also worth noting that the iPad completely dominates the mobile business market when it comes to tablets. Apple's slate accounts for 92.6 percent of recently activated accounts according to Intermedia.


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April 09, 2012
11 comments:
Your Emma is so precious! Hope you guys had a wonderful easter.ReplyDelete
Emma is soooo adorable! And you are just the cutest little family! Thanks for sharing!ReplyDelete
Would you mind sharing where your skirt is from? SO cute.ReplyDelete
It makes me remember my kids first Easter. Her dress is darlinh!ReplyDelete
Jenny, I'm a fairly new follower of your fabulous blog. Your ideas and presentations are fresh, inspiring, and doable. Thank you. As a Longaberger Consultant I flipped when I saw the photos with you and Emma with her Longaberger Easter Basket. So sweet! I hope you don't mind...I shared it on my page: https://www.facebook.com/LongabergerLifestyle and credited you, and suggested that fans would pop by and follow your lovely blog.ReplyDelete
Belated Happy Easter!
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Group buy!!!!!
Impuls helping you spend your tax refund again!!!
Stahl-Tek reinforcement bars
Regular : $492.83
Micra-Forum group buy :
$345 ( $150 savings )
( pick up )
delivery or shipping extra
I will meet with members with-in 100km radius of cawthra/qew.
Just toss me $10 for gas ( if I'm driving 100 both ways x 10 members that 2000km and gas ain't free gnome sayin.
What's included
3 PC strengthening kit ;
-Front strut tower bar
-Rear strut tower bar
-front sub-assembly support bar
Right now the colour choices are
Blue or black ( to get the best deal )
But i can see what I can do about that
Possible other colours
Orange red yellow green blue black grey and white
So please pick 2 colours.
Preferred and (black or blue)
Min. 6 ppl plus myself.
But I've arranged for 10 kits, if necessary I can arrange for more.
There are 4 stages to this group buy.
1- sign up.
I need to know if your in, if your in you should be prepared to send the funds in a timely manner, upon ordering.
2- parts will be ordered within 2 weeks of reaching the required amount of participants, after the funds have been collected.
( so you have a 2 week window once we reach to required # of ppl)
3- I receive and re-distribute parts, in a timely manner.
4- smile and tent fingers
This deal does expire. I will put an end date for this group buy of may 2 2017
( 10 calendar weeks from today )
We either reach the limit and order or we don't.
Don't send money until it's needed.
When its needed send it promptly.
Be patient. I have to.
Once we place the order, I will collect funds, forward to the supplier, and provide you all with updates via this thread.
3 PC strengthening kit ;
-Front strut tower bar
-Rear strut tower bar
-front sub-assembly support bar
Regular costs 3,677 mxn peso
Plus shipping, handling, duty and taxes
Product: 246.84cdn
Shipping: 135.96cdn > 382.80
Handling: 33.88cdn > 416.68
Duty: 23.35cdn > 440.03
Tax: 52.80cdn > 492.83
Total: 492.83cdn to your door regular
Or $345 pick up. Group buy.


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Food and Beverage Market for Kids Growing Like a Weed
By 2007, sales of kids foods and beverages could reach as high as $38 billion or more.
Currently in excess of $27 billion, the total food and beverage market for kids has grown at a compound annual rate of 3.4 percent since 1998. Beverages, savory snacks and desserts/sweet snacks have posted the strongest growth rates, according to Packaged Facts, New York. The Natural Marketing Institute reports health and wellness industry sales in 2004 totaled $68 billion. The intersection of these two lucrative markets makes healthy foods for children a ripe opportunity for food manufacturers to cash in on through product development and marketing.
Meeting children's nutritional needs is vital for healthy development because childhood is a period of marked bursts of rapid growth that lay the groundwork for a lifetime. For example, protein, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus, along with vitamins C, D and K, are essential for peak bone density during these years to minimize osteoporosis risk later on.
Omega-3 and -6 fatty acids – docosahexaenoic and arachadonic – are needed for the brain and nervous system early in life. Along with crucial contributions to physical development, good nourishment promotes alertness and concentration for better school performance and helps stabilize behavior.
Beyond the basic necessities of nutrition, there is an unprecedented prevalence of overweight status among today's youth – the level has more than doubled in the last two decades to 18 percent. This is now considered one of the top health concerns of our nation.
|These fruit crisps from Brothers All-Natural are made from fresh fruit with no added sweeteners, colors or flavors. Products like this are ideal for school vending machines.
Many health experts believe excess weight during childhood tends to lead to extra pounds during adulthood. Obesity-related health conditions such as diabetes, asthma, sleep apnea, high cholesterol and high blood pressure are growing among even young children. For food manufacturers, along with adequate nutrients, the right balance of controlled amounts of calories, and what ingredients make up those calories, becomes as important as adequate nutrition.
From Little Acorns
Several factors feed into why children's diets need improvement. The Chicago-based research firm Mintel International identifies a lack of portion control and the absence of regulated family eating schedules as key. Packaged Facts findings show a shift from main meals to multiple snacks is a part of the problem, too. But this means both challenges and opportunities for food companies.
The Hartman Group, Bellevue, Wash., reports that while most parents believe they have "adequate" control over their children's health and wellness inside the home environment, outside of it – such as in schools, restaurants, after-school or day care programs – the parents feel they have little control and are worried and frustrated by the limited array of choices available to their children.
The London-based Centre for Food & Health Studies (www.new-nutrition.com), in its "Five Key Trends in Kids' Nutrition 2006" report, predicts a shift to "good" and "bad" foods rather than "good" and "bad" diets. The report explores the positive role of omega-3, fiber and probiotics.
Natural, allergen-free foods also are identified as a strong and profitable trend for the future. "We have seen a confirmed shift in companies taking serious initiatives to combat issues in kids' nutrition. Those companies that do not run with this trend now will only find themselves forced into it by competition and/or regulation within the coming years," says Julian Mellentin, executive director and author of the report.
Packaged Facts concludes marketers can address these issues with educational efforts; innovative, tasty products with beneficial nutrients and convenient options that address the eating preferences of American children.
Multisectoral, integrated efforts and initiatives are essential for achieving healthful children's diets, according to The National Academy of Sciences (NAS). The academy asserts that this includes industry leadership. In Food Marketing to Children and Youth, the NAS recommends manufacturers (and restaurants) shift product portfolios in a direction that promotes new and reformulated "child- and youth-oriented" foods and beverages. They encourage said reformulations to be substantially lower in total calories, fat, salt and added sugars and higher in nutrients.
A recent national study conducted by New York-based Find/SVP Inc. reveals food retailers and manufacturers are increasingly becoming trusted advisors on nutrition, health and cooking information for today's consumers.
Kid Friendly, Kid Trendy
Among the major companies piloting new initiatives consistent with such recommendations, the Dole Nutrition Institute (DNI) – the nutrition research and educational foundation established by Dole Food Co. – has announced a new "School Salad Days" program. Designed to support healthy eating habits and promote daily fruit and vegetable consumption in California public schools, it is to be launched with the donation of 50 full-service portable salad bars to California K-12 schools this year.
DNI also plans to endorse fruit baskets to be sold as fund-raising alternatives and will help schools plant on-site "edible" gardens. "By increasing access to fruits and vegetables and teaching the importance of nutrition, we hope to be part of the solution to the epidemic of childhood obesity in California," states DNI director Jennifer Grossman.
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posted by Thom Holwerda on Sun 22nd Jul 2007 14:17 UTC, submitted by Oliver
GCC 4.2.1 has been released, the last release of the GNU Compiler Collection under the GPL v2. "GCC 4.2.1 is a bug-fix release, containing fixes for regressions in GCC 4.2.0 relative to previous GCC releases. GCC 4.2.1 will be the last release of GCC covered by version 2 of the GNU General Public License. All future releases will be released under GPL version 3."


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Car Review
2013 Volkswagen Passat: New Car Review
Pros: Understated styling; spacious interior; fuel-efficient turbodiesel engine; strong V6; perfect crash test scores.
Cons: Inefficient standard 5-cylinder engine; a bit less upscale than it used to be.
What's New: The 2013 Passat SE and SEL get a new center console with rear air vents and revised storage options, while the SEL also receives a standard rearview camera.
Following a successful debut last year, the 2013 Volkswagen Passat's job is to keep the good times rolling. American drivers have quickly warmed to this bigger, cheaper Passat, with more models leaving dealer lots than ever before. Built at VW's shiny new manufacturing plant in Tennessee, the 2013 Passat shows that Volkswagen is starting to understand what Americans want.
A bit of history is in order. Until last year, the Passat was known as the fancy European alternative to family sedans like the Accord and Camry. If it felt more expensive from behind the wheel, that's because it was, costing considerably more to buy and own than comparably equipped rivals. Volkswagen realized that savvy American consumers weren't in the mood to pay a premium, so they aimed for the center of the market this time around.
The result is a spacious, reasonably priced sedan that competes well with the usual suspects but still offers enough of that European character to feel special. We especially like the unusual diesel-powered Passat TDI, which delivers great fuel economy and surprising punch. Other family sedans might be flashier, but the Passat provides one of the best all-around combinations of features and value. Small wonder, then, that VW's mid-sizer has gotten off to such a strong start.
Comfort & Utility
The 2013 Volkswagen Passat is offered in different trim levels depending on what's under the hood: the 2.5-liter inline-5, the 2.0-liter TDI or the 3.6-liter VR6.
The base 2.5 S model is the one the Passat ads are referring to when they mention the car's base price of around $20,000. It comes standard with a 5-speed manual transmission (including a hill-holder feature), 16-inch steel wheels with plastic covers, a tilt-telescopic steering wheel, cloth upholstery, a height-adjustable driver's seat with adjustable lumbar support, air conditioning, a trip computer, Bluetooth and a 6-speaker audio system with an auxiliary input.
If you want an automatic transmission, you'll at least need the optional Appearance Package, which adds a 6-speed automatic, 16-in alloy wheels, a back seat center armrest and a healthy pile of cash to the bottom line.
The 2.5 SE boasts 17-in alloy wheels, leatherette upholstery, a power driver's seat, heated front seats, an upgraded trip computer with a larger display, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, heated exterior mirrors, rear climate vents and an 8-speaker audio system with a 6-CD changer, an SD-card reader and a 5-in touchscreen interface.
The 2.5 SE with Sunroof adds the automatic transmission and a sunroof, while the 2.5 SE with Sunroof and Nav also includes a navigation system (which uses the same 5-in touchscreen) and iPod connectivity.
The 2.5 SEL comes standard with the sunroof, a hard-drive-based navigation system with digital music storage and a larger 6.5-in touchscreen, a rearview camera, better-bolstered front seats, footwell lighting, a 9-speaker Fender audio system with iPod integration, dual-zone automatic climate control and a rear-seat ski pass-through.
The 2.5 SEL Premium tacks on fog lights, keyless entry with push-button start, leather upholstery, driver memory functions and a power passenger seat.
The diesel-powered Passat TDI starts at the SE trim level with a 6-speed manual transmission, featuring the 2.5 SE's standard and optional equipment plus electric-assist power steering and optional 18-in alloys. The top-of-the-line TDI is the SEL Premium, which includes a 6-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission but is otherwise equipped similarly to the 2.5 SEL Premium.
The V6-powered 3.6 SE gets the automated manual transmission, 18-in alloy wheels and most of the 2.5 SEL's equipment, although the 3.6 SE's navigation system is the SD-based version with the smaller screen. The range-topping 3.6 SEL Premium gets the hard-drive-based navigation system with the larger screen and the rest of the other SEL Premium models' equipment, plus wood grain interior trim.
In our interior evaluation, the first emotion we felt was relief. Given the latest Jetta's downgraded cabin, we were worried that the Passat would follow suit, but we're pleased to report that the sophisticated German vibe has largely been retained. Materials are no longer notably above average in quality, but they're fine, and we like the upmarket look of the gauges and the precision feel of the knobs and levers.
The front seats offer minimal lateral grip, even with the SEL-and-up comfort sport bolstering, but we're okay with that. The new Passat is definitely all about highway cruising. A word of advice, however: Make sure the front seats agree with your lower back. Some of us find the lumbar area and, indeed, the general shape of these seats to be less than ideal.
In back, the Passat offers so much space that we think it's a viable alternative to large cars like the Toyota Avalon and Hyundai Azera. We also appreciate the addition of standard rear climate vents to SE models and higher for 2013. We're a little miffed, though, that a rear center armrest doesn't come standard on the 2.5 S.
Trunk capacity is above average at 15.9 cu-ft.
The entry-level Passat is pretty basic on the audio front, sporting just a CD stereo with an auxiliary input, though at least Bluetooth comes standard. We're troubled that iPod integration is only available starting at the SE trim level, and a USB port simply isn't offered at all, so flash drive fans will have to transfer their MP3s onto an SD card (if their Passats are so equipped). But the optional Fender audio system is well worth the price of admission, delivering excellent sound by family sedan standards.
Higher trims offer a touchscreen audio interface and not one but two navigation systems; we'd skip straight to the hard-drive-based unit, if possible, as it boasts not only the larger 6.5-in screen but also about 20 GB of music storage for MP3 aficionados. The smaller, SD-based navigation system works well enough, but we'd always wonder if we should have stepped up to the fancier system.
Performance & Fuel Economy
All Passats employ a front-wheel-drive layout. The Passat 2.5 is powered by a 2.5-liter inline-5 that generates 170 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard on the base 2.5L, while a 6-speed automatic controls the other trims. Unlike many critics, we feel some affection for this engine, as it has more character in its 5-cylinder growl than most rival inline-4s put together. We can't defend the fuel economy, however, which is below average for an all-new family sedan at 22 mpg city/32 mpg highway with the manual, 22/31 mpg with the automatic.
The Passat TDI features a turbodiesel 2.0-liter inline-4 paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed dual-clutch automated manual. Output checks in at 140 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. Although the TDI is ultimately a bit slower than the 2.5, it feels quicker around town thanks to all that torque, which is available virtually from the moment you depress the throttle. Audible diesel clatter is kept to a minimum, and fuel economy is stellar at 31/43 mpg with the manual and 30/40 mpg with the dual-clutch automatic.
The Passat 3.6 packs a 3.6-liter narrow-angle VR6 that cranks out 280 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque, transforming the Passat into an unassuming muscle car. Acceleration is downright swift with this engine, and it makes fun noises, too. The transmission is the dual-clutch automated manual, a surprisingly sporty choice. After all, the ostensibly sportier CC VR6 is stuck with a conventional 6-speed automatic. We're big fans of this transmission in powerful models, and it doesn't disappoint here, especially in quick-shifting manual mode with the steering-wheel-mounted shift buttons. Fuel economy is another pleasant surprise: 20/28 mpg is fairly frugal for such a muscular motor.
The Passat comes with standard stability control, 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes and six airbags (front, front side and full-length side curtain).
The new Passat aced the government's crash tests, scoring a perfect five stars in frontal, side and overall crashworthiness. The independent Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) similarly awarded the Passat its highest rating in every testing category.
Driving Impressions
The 2013 Passat is like an athlete after a full-body Novocain massage. You can tell there's some real handling capability in there that a sport-tuned suspension would tease out, but the default setup is definitely geared toward comfort. Nonetheless, the Passat dances well enough, though if you really care about sporty handling, that's why the CC exists.
As for ordinary driving, the Passat offers a quiet cabin and generally good shock absorption. If we're picking nits, the latest Passat's structure feels a little less robust over bumps than its German pedigree would suggest, but by the standards of this class it's more than adequate.
Ford Fusion - Redesigned with real purpose for 2013, the Fusion combines practicality, technology and agility like few vehicles at this price point. Check out the Hybrid for fuel economy that shames even the stingy Passat TDI.
Honda Accord - Also all new for 2013, the revitalized Accord is once again a strong contender, though it lacks a diesel option.
Kia Optima - Before you drive off in a Passat, consider that you might be able to grab a 274-hp Optima SX for around the same price. The SX's fuel economy is better than the base Passat 2.5, while its smooth, strong acceleration puts it on par with the Passat 3.6.
AutoTrader Recommends
We're partial to the Passat TDI, as it offers unbeatable fuel economy and range (hybrid rivals aside) along with a healthy turbocharged shove when you goose it. Plus, even the entry-level TDI SE comes pretty well equipped.


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Kidz Bop, has partnered with RCA Records and Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, to launch the 2013 Kidz Star USA Talent Search. The national talent competition for kids and teens ages 15 and under is hosted on Kidz Bop's website, kidzbop.com. Young singers can enter online and in person for their chance to win an RCA Records recording contract. Now through August 30, kids can upload a 90-second performance video to kidzbop.com. Kids can also audition live at select Six Flags Theme Parks. The official Kidz Star Live Audition Tour kicks off at Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, N.J. on June 22. The Tour then travels to nine other Six Flags Theme Parks throughout the summer, wrapping up on August 18 at Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, Calif. Auditions and activities are free with paid park admission. This year, Kidz Bop has also partnered with teen media outlet, M Magazine, to showcase a weekly Kidz Star feature highlighting audition videos of the week.
Kidz Star fans can view contestants' audition videos and progress on kidzbop.com, where they will be able to interact with their favorites, vote, and rally support to help determine who will make it to the final rounds. Four finalists will be flown to Hollywood to compete on stage at a Six Flags Magic Mountain finale event on September 28 to help determine who will be crowned the next Kidz Star. The 2013 Kidz Star USA winner will be announced in October.
Last year, nearly 50,000 kids entered the competition. The 2012 Kidz Star USA grand prize winner and RCA Records recording artist, Dallas Wayde, is currently in the studio recording new music. Kiana Brown, the 2011 winner and RCA Records recording artist, is currently touring with the Kidz Bop Kids. Her latest single, "Hey Chica," will appear on the upcoming Smurf's 2 soundtrack.


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A winning combination
The Swan 90 is the latest in a long line of high quality racing yachts designed by Nautor's Swan's designer, German Frers. In the Swan 90, Frers has combined an elegant and sophisticated cruiser in Nautor's Swan inimitable style with his unrivalled experience of building high tech racing yachts.
The Swan 90 will combine superior cruising capabilities and an outstanding interior with the distinctive quality of a Nautor's Swan. With its elegant proportions and refined lines, the Swan 90 is set to become a benchmark of the Nautor's Swan range. The yacht's versatility and capabilities on the water are second to none. Superbly designed and easy to handle, even with a limited crew, it is sure to be an instant favourite for competitive racing. With hydraulic winches, hydraulic head sail furling sail and handling controlled via push buttons, the yacht can easily be managed by between two and three people in cruising mode. For competitive racing, it can be crewed by a team of twenty.
In addition to its gracefully designed exterior, a Nautor's Swan hallmark, the spacious, stylish on-board accommodation makes the Swan 90 perfect for extended cruising. Facilitated by a sleek hull, the generously proportioned interior skilfully optimises every inch of space and comprises an owner's cabin with double accommodation, three guest cabins that sleep two, and two crew cabins, both containing a bunk bed. Each cabin has its own bathroom with a separate shower, apart from the crew area, which shares a bathroom. Outside of the main sleeping areas, there is a luxurious main saloon and galley as well as a spacious navigation system.
A winning combination of beauty, performance and elegance, the Swan 90 is set to be the new jewel in the Nautor's Swan crown.
The Swan 90 is available in two versions: the Swan 90 FD and the Swan 90 S.
I: 120.73 ft 36.80 m
J: 35.30 ft 10.76 m
P: 116.47 ft 35.50 m
E: 37.56 ft 11.45 m
Fore triangle: 2130 sq.ft 198.0 m²
Main sail: 2730 sq.ft 253.8 m²
110% Jib: 2251 sq.ft 209.1 m²
Asymm Spinnaker: 8288 sq.ft 770.0 m²


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Tom Blair • U-T
The daughter of Jewish immigrants from Eastern Europe, Deborah Szekely was a founder of the modern health and fitness movement.
At 17, she married Edmund Szekely, a 34-year-old Jewish Hungarian scholar who came to the U.S. during Hitler's reign of terror and landed, eventually, in Southern California. Forced to leave the country when his legal documents expired, Szekely took his young bride to Mexico, where they established the first of their famed destination spas, Rancho La Puerta in Tecate.
Over the next seven decades, Deborah Szekely has lived a remarkable life that has, in addition to her fitness career, included service to the U.S. as president of the Inter-American Foundation, work with the Organization of American States and as principal delegate to the Inter-American Commission on Women. She lives in her Bankers Hill home of 58 years.
Q: Congratulations. You have a special birthday coming up.
A: May 3. I'll be 90 — in years, but not actions.
Q: Do you feel different now than you did 10 or 20 years ago?
A: I feel smarter. I use my time better, because I feel I've got to get to it in the next 10 years. On Friday, I had lunch with the new president of San Diego State and then went to the opera. The day before, I drove to the Grand Del Mar for dinner. And I didn't get lost. I had a lunch appointment every day last week. And I took my grandson to the Aztecs basketball game Saturday night for his birthday.
Q: Phew. In 2007, at 85, you said you were looking forward to the decade of change. What change have you experienced so far?
A: I worked to create something that didn't work out, but it's in file boxes in the garage, and it's still going to happen. I was working with USD on something called "Living Skills: 5th Grade Curriculum." I wanted them to do a pilot in one city in each of four different states, during which the fifth-grade kids would drop off the grid for a year to learn living skills. Had the Democrats held control [of the House], I would have had an earmark and been able to do it.
Q: No ABCs?
A: No. They'd be learning accounting, by keeping a budget, and comparison shopping. They'd have $50 in a bank account, and no check could be over $5, so they would have to budget. They would learn living skills; gardening, cooking, cleaning. There would be field trips to factories and farms. USD would have got $1 million to oversee it. It would include nutrition, how the body functions and how the world works.
Q: That was part of your 10-year plan.
A: It's on hold because of the economy. It'll be back. But I've got a new one. I have an idea that will be launched on my 90th birthday. Starting last year, I incorporated the National Wellness Registry. I just signed contracts with EchoDitto to create magic websites. I want to use the social network to do a Wellness Spring. The goal is a million members paying $10 a year to lobby for the common-sense aspects of wellness. One thing we'll do is a bumper sticker campaign. "What Are You Doing Today For Wellness?" "Take a Neighbor for a Walk." "Split an Apple With a Kid."
Q: You're confident you can get a million people to donate?
A: I have no idea. But you can't win if you don't try. This is what I'm doing for my decade. My time is now my philanthropy.
Q: Meanwhile, there's Rancho La Puerta, launched in 1940, when you were just 18. So your health spa will be 72 this year.
A: My daughter, Sarah [Livia], has taken over Rancho La Puerta. It will always be a piece of me, but my mind is into the next thing. Still, I visit the ranch once a week when I'm in town. My daughter has been in training for this all her life, and she is brilliant. It's a challenge, because we have 400 staff and a lot of programs.
Q: You've had concerns about the business during the recession and the violence in Mexico.
A: We had a little dip. But this year looks much, much better than last, which was better than the year before. The regulars have never stopped returning.
Q: And the drug violence?
A: I carry a card in my purse wherever I go. And when people talk to me about Mexico violence, I show them how much less there is in Mexico than half a dozen countries in Latin America and some of our own cities, including New Orleans and Gary, Indiana.
Q: You spent 17 years in Washington. You ran for Congress and lost. Would you want to serve in Congress today?
A: Well, I like challenges. I might go back there and stir it up. I still have my Congressional Management Foundation, so I'm very connected. We've just done our 12th edition of "Setting Course," written for the congressional staff. When I ran for Congress, I found the staffers didn't talk to one another. And there was no manual to help freshman members of Congress set up their offices. So I wrote the book 28 years ago.
Q: Philanthropy has been a part of your life for decades, starting in Mexico 60 years ago with school programs for deaf and mute children. You've said, "Volunteerism was my alma mater." What does that mean?
A: I didn't go to college. I was at the ranch. My parents were in San Diego. And I would come to San Diego on the weekends to do the shopping. I read in the paper that the Old Globe Theatre, used by the Navy during World War II, was being returned to the community. I volunteered there, and they were just grateful for another pair of hands. It gave me something I could go out to do and just be helpful. There, I was accepted for myself. To the people at the ranch, I was the scullery maid, milking the goats and getting the breakfast and cooking.
Q: And the Globe was your introduction to local philanthropy?
A: I began as a volunteer, but I took on more responsibility. Craig Noel [founding director] and one other person were paid. It was a true community theater. From the Globe, it branched out into so many other activities. COMBO, the Combined Arts and Education Council, came out of the Globe. Phil Klauber and I started COMBO, with most of the money raised the first year going to the Globe. We built a support building with that money. I still have the ceremonial shovel from groundbreaking. We raised a lot of money over 25 years. And then I set up versions of COMBO in Arizona, Tulsa and Dallas.
Q: Is there anything you still wish you could do that you haven't?
A: There was a wonderful program I thought could go national called Family Fitness. I wanted San Diego to become America's Healthiest City. Mayor Pete Wilson supported it. We had a fitness program in 16 park and recreation gyms in the city. We had 4,000 people exercising in those gyms — mothers, fathers and children — three times a week. It lasted three years, and then came Proposition 13. Everything in the city budget that wasn't essential was cut.
Q: But you still have your personal exercise regimen.
A: I walk. And I do Pilates four times a week. I'd do it five times, but my trainer takes Tuesdays off.
email@example.com (619) 293-1715
Deborah Szekely
Age: 89
Born: New York City
Raised: New York, Tahiti, Marin County
Occupation: Fitness expert; owner, Rancho La Puerta health spa; philanthropist, activist
Quote: "When do people stop and think? Kids don't think; it's TV full-time. I love my mind. It's entertaining and challenging. And it gets better all the time."


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Innovations Keep Food Processing Conveyors Flexible
Luckily for food manufacturers, conveyor technology has not stood still. A number of vendors have introduced innovations this year that move the technology that moves your products.
For any class of ingredient, product or finished package, there's a conveyor suited to move it down the line. Despite the many conveyance methods used to accomplish the task, there are common elements that reflect food processors' needs. These include features and options that save space, foster safety and sanitation, reduce maintenance and downtime and preserve product integrity.
Of course, in a well-managed process, features work in synergistic fashion so that fast, easy sanitation leads to reduced downtime; gentle product handling enhances product quality and reduces waste; and even space-saving equipment designs play a role in plant profitability when smart designs lead to faster installation and — as with the best innovations — the ability to do more with less.
Conveyor technology has not stood still. A number of vendors have introduced innovations this year that move the technology that moves your products. Some recent developments:
Key Technology (www.key.net), Walla Walla, Wash., known for its vibratory conveyor systems, introduced a new kind of conveyor called the Horizon earlier this year. The horizontal motion conveyor moves product with a new rolling mass technology-based drive that uses a gentle, gliding motion versus up-and-down vibratory motion. That minimizes breakage and coating loss to minimize product breakage. This makes it suitable for many fragile, seasoned, coated and frozen food products, plus it prevents buildup on the conveyor.
In addition to single-constituent streams, the sliding motion is ideal for mixes such as trail mix or granola, which can be conveyed without separation for a "strong assurance that within any given package, you're going to get very accurate results in a blended product," says Steve Johnson, product marketing manager.
Key Technology earlier this year introduced a horizontal motion conveyor: the Horizon.
A maintenance-reducing "lube-for-life" drive that moves with the pan runs significantly quieter than vibratory models and can be mounted anywhere along the conveyor pan — even in front or underneath the pan. This, along with the flexibility to install the Horizon on the floor or suspend it from the ceiling, accommodates users' space constraints.
The drive system can move product at speeds up to 42 feet per minute on a single continuous conveyor up to 100 ft. long. Reverse-direction capability adds to the system's flexibility.
Another company stretching its technology is Bunting Magnetics (www.buntingmagnetics.com), Newton, Kan. The company uses its metal detector know-how for the Washdown Magnetic Transfer Conveyor, which features stainless steel for easy cleanup and reduced downtime in applications where processors need to move product up and through a plant quickly, such as the transfer of full or empty cans throughout a process, from steam-based processes to filling stations and labeling machines. "It is perfect for can handling applications where there are changes in elevations," says Charles Whitt, director of marketing.
Indeed, the most common application for these conveyors is a high-speed can line, typically operating between 100 to 600 cans per minute. The magnetics provide proper spacing and positioning without product jams, because the design is "simpler and less complicated than the typical non-magnetic squeeze elevation conveyors," says Whitt. Additionally, the wash-down model is the choice for sanitary requirements, which these conveyors meet with food-grade or sanitary stainless finish; food-grade belts; full wash-down motors and drives; and composite wash-down bearings.
Design features include specially designed ceramic or rare earth magnets that stabilize the cans at high speeds and magnetic elements that are custom-matched to the can size, weight and speed. Sanitary and wash-down features along with "endless" belting help make these conveyors "almost maintenance free," says Whitt.
For space savings, these conveyors provide a low profile transfer of lids or cans to filling stations where space is restricted and very tight.
A different design in conveying is the tubular drag conveyor from Cablevey Conveyors (www.cablevey.com), Oskaloosa, Iowa. They excel in the gentle handling of materials, including roasted whole bean coffee, cereal loops and flakes as well as nuts. This type of conveyor uses cable-driven, disc-shaped flights to pull product through closed, sanitary piping. The closed design protects the product from ambient conditions while containing dust from escaping. Also, the flights provide gentle handling to keep from crushing nuts or even tea leaves. Clean-In-place is fast and easy by virtue of the closed-loop design.
The ability to install tubular drag conveyors in horizontal, vertical and curved configurations saves space and can eliminate the re-engineering of plants and processes. And with maximum motor size at 5 amps for the largest system, compared to traditional conveyors using 10 times the power, tubular drag conveyors greatly reduce power requirements as well as plant noise.
"We've all had the experience of walking through a plant with ear plugs, masks, glasses and helmets – and that's still necessary – but we've seen dramatic reduction of material particulate in the air because each system we install is enclosed," says Karl Seidel, marketing manager.
Cablevey keeps the beans flowing to the Probat-Burns coffee roaster at Apffel's Coffee in Santa Fe Springs, Calif.
Depending on the tubing size — diameters range from two to six inches — throughput ranges from 75 to 1,240 cubic feet per hour, moving product at an average speed of 100 ft. per minute for a "low-speed but respectable throughput where more traditional systems might damage materials," Seidel says.
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|SMART accession number:
|Interpro abstract (IPR000834):
Metalloproteases are the most diverse of the four main types of protease, with more than 50 families identified to date. In these enzymes, a divalent cation, usually zinc, activates the water molecule. The metal ion is held in place by amino acid ligands, usually three in number. The known metal ligands are His, Glu, Asp or Lys and at least one other residue is required for catalysis, which may play an electrophillic role. Of the known metalloproteases, around half contain an HEXXH motif, which has been shown in crystallographic studies to form part of the metal-binding site [(PUBMED:7674922)]. The HEXXH motif is relatively common, but can be more stringently defined for metalloproteases as 'abXHEbbHbc', where 'a' is most often valine or threonine and forms part of the S1' subsite in thermolysin and neprilysin, 'b' is an uncharged residue, and 'c' a hydrophobic residue. Proline is never found in this site, possibly because it would break the helical structure adopted by this motif in metalloproteases [(PUBMED:7674922)].
This group of sequences contain a diverse range of gene families, which include metallopeptidases belonging to MEROPS peptidase family M14 (carboxypeptidase A, clan MC), subfamilies M14A and M14B.
The carboxypeptidase A family can be divided into two subfamilies: carboxypeptidase H (regulatory) and carboxypeptidase A (digestive) [(PUBMED:7674922)]. Members of the H family have longer C-termini than those of family A [(PUBMED:1449602)], and carboxypeptidase M (a member of the H family) is bound to the membrane by a glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchor, unlike the majority of the M14 family, which are soluble [(PUBMED:7674922)].
The zinc ligands have been determined as two histidines and a glutamate, and the catalytic residue has been identified as a C-terminal glutamate, but these do not form the characteristic metalloprotease HEXXH motif [(PUBMED:7674922), (PUBMED:6887246)]. Members of the carboxypeptidase A family are synthesised as inactive molecules with propeptides that must be cleaved to activate the enzyme. Structural studies of carboxypeptidases A and B reveal the propeptide to exist as a globular domain, followed by an extended alpha-helix; this shields the catalytic site, without specifically binding to it, while the substrate-binding site is blocked by making specific contacts [(PUBMED:7674922), (PUBMED:1548696)].
Other examples of protein families in this entry include:
|GO process:
|proteolysis (GO:0006508)
|GO function:
|metallocarboxypeptidase activity (GO:0004181), zinc ion binding (GO:0008270)
|Family alignment:
There are 6332 Zn_pept domains in 6039 proteins in SMART's nrdb database.
Click on the following links for more information.
- Evolution (species in which this domain is found)
- Metabolism (metabolic pathways involving proteins which contain this domain)
- Structure (3D structures containing this domain)
- Links (links to other resources describing this domain)


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Reading the forum on your cell phone? There's an easier way. We've enabled a Tapatalk app that makes browsing the forum a whole lot easier. Check it out in the iPhone or Android store if you don't own it already.
Not really sure I would ever teach someone traction...or do it in the field Seriously: there is a need for a class like Comeau and Hurley did. Full day; less than $100, no cert. but knowlege and skills that can save a life.
I would keep the first-aid and self rescue seperate. The first aid class would appeal to not just climbers.
Remember that classes are normally written for the lowest common denominator. Just sayin it sucks when half the class is getting one guy up to speed especially when you're paying for it.
you cannot have enough knowledge about this stuff LL
Conclusion: climbing like a "pro", hard climb, take so much time that people skip other point of climbing. Cranking a 5.11 is more important than to avoid an accident and there will be always some guy to plug courses to make money instead of guy giving free time to save people...
But is not that simply the fault of the sport climber who trad is not first mentality
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I would be extremely grateful for any sound advice or suggestions with my problem.
To begin with, I have recently graduated from a decent university (Oxford ) in an interesting and vibrant part of the country. Right now, I find myself living at home with my parents, and about to embark on a more vocational course near where I live (to sit out the credit crunch! ). The town where we live is fairly quiet, and there is certainly little to do, especially compared with university life. To be honest, I do not think I would be happy to live there till the end of my days. The job prospects are pretty low-paid, and a lot of my skills (languages, creative writing) would in all likelihood go to waste (as it is not quite in my character to head some cheesy reading group for local disadvantaged teenagers, if you pardon my French). In short, I am contemplating a move.
My idea is to return back to my old university town, as the quality of life, job prospects and virtually everything is better there (not to mention the fact that the atmosphere was truly great, and I really felt at home). However, as it takes an awful lot of time, money and planning, and I cannot gather my thoughts together as yet, I would really appreciate any creative ideas or suggestions on how to move there, any tips, advice and so on. I would even be content with an arrangement that might allow me to come to that town on a regular basis, if not live there permanently.
Does anyone have any thoughts on this?


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GRANDVIEW - At long last, Yakima Valley Community College's Grandview campus officially celebrated the opening of its wine tasting room with a ribbon cutting ceremony this past Friday.
The Workforce Education Center has been open since this past fall and YVCC students have been learning about the ins and outs of winemaking.
"We have been waiting a long time for this day," said YVCC President Linda Kaminski. "I think this will be a wonderful addition to the community and wine industry."
YVCC agricultural program chair Trent Ball took the opportunity to inform ribbon cutting guests that the tasting room will be open during spring barrel weekend. "You'll get to experience student wines," he said.
Those present at the ribbon cutting were actually treated to a sneak preview of the wine.
The college also houses two incubator spaces for start up wineries, Ball said, adding that one of the new wineries will also be pouring at the tasting room during spring barrel.
Student Brad Smith said that he's been pleased with the knowledge that he's learned about the wine industry.
He said the classes are packaged together in a way that he's also able to learn about marketing and the history and uniqueness of Washington's wine industry.
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Zero Dark Thirty
Gritty, tense drama about the hunt for Osama Bin Laden Discuss this article
Director Kathryn Bigelow and reporter-turned-screenwriter Mark Boal's 2009 Oscar-winner The Hurt Locker followed a bomb disposal unit in Iraq. Now they've made this sidekick – a gritty, tense procedural about the hunt for Osama Bin Laden. These are action films for people who think action movies are dumb: they put us on the inside of history and grip us with their journalistic detail.
Zero Dark Thirty is lean, mean storytelling: no back stories, no frills – just action and an effortless forward momentum. Boal spent the best part of a decade talking to counterterrorism operatives, and it shows in his faultless dialogue. The endgame – a raid on a suburban house in Pakistan – is a white-knuckle watch. And when a Seal finally puts a bullet into a thin, grey-bearded man, you don't doubt for a second this is what it was like: dogs barking, freaked-out locals raising a mob outside. This is an instant classic.
Time Out Doha,


text: I've been having frequent brief interruptions to my internet connection. Sometimes I'll go half a day without any problems, then over the next hour i'll have these interruptions every couple of minutes. I notice that if i click on a link in my browser it wont load, but if I wait 5 seconds then click again it will work. I also notice that I briefly disconnect from internet game lobbies and briefly disconnect from mumble voip servers. Snap told me that I havn't had any disconnects at their end when they look at my line as it's been connected for ~96 hours. Rebooting the modem doesn't seem to help.


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Bayern Munich midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger has described Arsenal's Jack Wilshere as one of Europe's best ahead of tonight's Champions League tie between the two sides at the Emirates.
The 28-year-old Germany international believes the 21-year-old Englishman is among the top players in his position.
Schweinsteiger, whose Bayern side are 15 points clear at the top of the Bundesliga and have won all five of their domestic games since the winter break, also said that he is surprised Arsenal haven't won trophies recently, given the quality they have in their ranks.
He told reporters: "I don't think one player makes the team but in his position he [Wilshere] is one of the best there is, he is a difficult player.
"He is very dynamic, he has a very good left foot and he has a really good eye for the way he views the players around him. Those are his strong qualities.
"Arsenal are one of the top 10 teams in Europe. The days of Tony Adams and Thierry Henry have gone, and maybe they are pining for those days. But still they have Wilshere and they have [Santi] Cazorla in there and they are very technical. I don't know why they have not won trophies because they have the quality to win."
Bayern are keen to avenge their recent heartache in the Champions League, having lost in the final in 2010 and 2012 to Inter and Chelsea, by going one step further this year and lifting the trophy at Wembley in May.
Nonetheless, Schweinsteiger is keeping focused on Arsenal, he added: "If you have lost two finals then the motivation is there, it is huge.
"But we have to take this game against Arsenal as our priority. It is going to be a very hard game and we have to respect Arsenal. They lost at the weekend against Blackburn but that doesn't mean it is not going to be difficult."


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(BPT) – Dreaming of spring despite the cold weather outside? You're not the only one. Many people start thinking of warmer temperatures as soon as the mercury drops. Instead of sitting inside this winter, use these tips to "think spring" so you'll be ready when the thermometer rises again.
Try a smoothie
Nutrition has an incredible impact on wellness, and incorporating whole foods into your daily routine can help you stay fit through the winter months. A quick and easy way to begin incorporating more nutrient-packed foods into your diet is with fruit and vegetable smoothies. Try making a Fruit Salad Smoothie in your Vitamix blender to start your day. Simply toss whole fruits and vegetables into the machine, and its powerful motor will blend the mix into a smooth, on-the-go treat that tastes great and gives you natural energy. And with hundreds of great-tasting recipes available at vitamix.com, you're sure to find a healthy smoothie for everyone in the family.
Get moving
Exercise is essential to staying healthy, especially during winter, when it's tempting to hibernate. Experts at the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommend that healthy adults get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate aerobic activity, plus muscle-strengthening activities twice a week. One way to get moving while having fun is to exercise with a friend. You could join a dance or fitness class together, go hiking, cycling or cross-country skiing in a nearby park, or try rock climbing.
Even if your hectic schedule doesn't leave much room for daily trips to the gym or local park, you can still incorporate exercise into your regular winter routine. Playing outside with your dog or kids, keeping dumbbells at your desk, walking down the hall to deliver messages in-person versus via email, and taking the stairs instead of the elevator are just a few examples of how you can get moving despite inclement weather. Even doing your daily chores – like getting outside to shovel snow – is a great way to build physical fitness and endurance.
Set a goal
Planning a vacation for springtime can give you something to look forward to through the cold winter months and is great motivation for remaining committed to a healthy lifestyle. Organize an exciting adventure with your family or friends – like hiking, mountain biking or kayaking – to take your mind off the dreary weather outside and keep you inspired to stay in shape. Plus, you can find some great travel deals during the off-season.
Remember to laugh
Don't let the overcast weather bring you down. Smiling and laughing are good for your health any time of year. Recent Stanford University research suggests that a good giggle fit can actually lower stress and act as a mini-workout. Try grabbing your friends for a game night or to watch a funny movie. Besides making you feel better, laughter is also contagious, so you just may make those around you feel better, too.
Although spring may seem light-years away, you can use these tips to help you "think spring" now and commit to a healthy winter lifestyle. That way, when the trees start to bloom and the air feels warm again, you'll be ready for whatever comes your way. Try this delicious smoothie recipe to get you started.
Vitamix Fruit Salad Smoothie Recipe
Total Time: 11 minutes
Yield: 3 cups
1/2 cup red or green grapes
1 medium orange, peeled, halved, seeded
1/2-inch thick slice pineapple, core included
1/4 cucumber, peeled
1 carrot, halved
1/4 medium apple, cored, seeded
2 cups ice cubes
Place all ingredients into the Vitamix container in the order listed and secure lid. Select Variable 1. Turn machine on and slowly increase speed to Variable 10, then to High. Blend for 1 minute, using the tamper to press the ingredients down.
Nutritional information
Per 1 cup serving: Calories: 80, Total Fat: 0 g, Saturated Fat: 0 g, Cholesterol: 0 mg, Sodium: 20 mg, Total Carbohydrate: 20 g, Dietary Fiber: 3 g, Sugars: 15 g, Protein: 1 g


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Abilities Tennis Association of NC (Abilities Tennis) is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to raising awareness and developing adaptive tennis programs for persons with intellectual disabilities throughout the state of NC. Their goal is to provide adaptive tennis programs year-round through clinics, tournaments, and PE-Adaptive Tennis in the Public School systems. They work closely with USTA NC, Community Tennis Associations, Public School Systems, Parks and Recreation departments, and Special Olympics of NC.
Abilities Tennis has adapted tennis programs to accommodate individuals with intellectual disabilities. This includes training coaches and volunteers; providing skills based, short court, and long court tennis opportunities; and unified doubles which partners individuals without a disability with special needs athletes.
To learn more about this organization and the programs they provide, visit their atanc.org.
Or connect with them on social media!
Wilmington Spring Thaw
For tournament information, please visit Wilmington Spring Thaw tournament page
Winston-Salem Adaptive Open (National Tournament)
For tournament information, please visit Winston-Salem Adaptive Open tournament page
Raleigh Winter Chill
For tournament information, please visit Raleigh Winter Chill tournament page
Charlotte Adaptive Challenge (Abilities Tennis sponsors)
For tournament information, please visit Charlotte Adaptive Challenge tournament page
Held in partnership with local Community Tennis Associations (CTA) and local branches of Special Olympics, brings tennis clinics year-round.
Clinics are currently offered in the following cities:
- Raleigh
About Abilities Tennis


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Original 24″x12″x3″ Bar-Plate Intercooler for Eclipse Evolution Ford F-Series Trucks
60% of buyers enjoyed this product!
Price: US $124 / piece
Discount Price: US $119.99 / piece
Discount Price: US $119.99 / piece
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Don´t miss our Intercooler 3" Universal Front Mount 31x12x3.With such high quality and unbeatable price, it surely is worth your investment!
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|START Conference Manager
ASIST 2012 Annual Meeting
Baltimore, MD, October 26-30, 2012
Searching vs. Writing: Factors Affecting Information Use Task Performance
Jingjing Liu and Nicholas J. Belkin
Monday, 1:30pm
Searching for information is often driven by some work tasks that involve information use and require certain types of outcomes other than finding information. To explore how search systems can help with work tasks calls for examining factors that influence work task performance. A 3-stage controlled lab experiment was conducted with 24 participants, each coming 3 times to work on 3 sub-tasks of a general task, couched either as "parallel" or "dependent" task type. The full task was to write a report on the general topic, with interim documents produced for each sub-task. Results show that task type and task session did not affect users' task performance, but users' topic familiarity and task experience did. Users' effectiveness of finding useful pages and their time allocated to writing correlated with task performance, so did their reflected perceptions of task experience. Further, users' topic familiarity could lead to a higher writing efficiency, and task experience could lead to higher searching efficiency and effectiveness. These findings help understand factors affecting information use task performance, and have implications on search system design to support information related work task accomplishment.


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Medal of Honor Society honors Newtown educators
NEWTOWN, Conn. (AP) — The six educators killed in the December massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School were honored Monday by an organization comprised of Medal of Honor recipients.
The Congressional Medal of Honor Society said it chose the women to receive its Citizen Honors Medal, the highest award it gives to a civilian, after receiving dozens of nominations for their actions during the shooting.
The educators' families received the awards on their behalf at the ceremony at Newtown High School. Janet Robinson, who was superintendent of Newtown schools at the time of the shooting, told the audience that the women were not trained for anything like what happened on Dec. 14 but they acted to protect the children.
"There are no people more worthy of this award," Robinson said, according to The News-Times of Danbury.
Two of the educators honored, principal Dawn Hochsprung and school psychologist Mary Sherlach, are believed to have lunged, unarmed, at the gunman to try to stop him. Another, teacher Victoria Soto, reportedly hid children in a closet. Lauren Rousseau read to her students as a gunman invaded the school, doing her best to keep them calm. Rachel D'Avino and Anne Marie Murphy were said to have wrapped their arms around the children as chaos ensued.
The women exemplified courage, sacrifice and selflessness in trying to protect students from gunman Adam Lanza, the Congressional Medal of Honor Society said in announcing the honor.
The organization also planned to honor every other member of the school's staff with a Certificate of Commendation.
"Many teachers and staff members disregarded their own safety that day to hide and protect the children in their care," said Harold Fritz, the society's president.
The society honored four other people with the award this year. They received their medals during an annual ceremony on March 25 at Arlington National Cemetery.
In February, President Barack Obama bestowed the nation's second-highest civilian honor, the Presidential Citizens Medal, on the families of the fallen educators.


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Car Review
2014 Nissan Rogue: First Drive Review
In the world of compact crossovers, it can be very hard to stand out. The formula is simple: Use a car-based chassis, add ground clearance and put a 150- to 180-horsepower 4-cylinder under the hood. In fact, the segment is so similar that many compact crossovers are even starting to look the same.
But the newly redesigned 2014 Nissan Rogue manages to stand out from the pack -- an impressive feat, considering it largely sticks to the established formula. We recently got behind the wheel of the latest Rogue to find out exactly how it sets itself apart from its rivals.
Follows the Formula
Before we cover the Rogue's standout qualities, it's important to understand the newly redesigned SUV still includes everything you'd expect from a compact crossover. That means there's a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that makes 170 hp, a fuel-saving CVT automatic transmission, a tall driving position and a long list of features -- both for convenience and safety. There's also a lot of high-tech gadgetry, which is becoming a hallmark in modern Nissan models.
It's also important to understand the latest Rogue has almost nothing in common with the old one, which will live on for the 2014 model year as the budget-priced Rogue Select. To us, the outgoing Rogue was in dire need of some changes, owing to a noisy, cramped interior and low-rent materials. If you crossed off the old Rogue from your shopping list for any of those reasons, we understand. But we think the new one is worth a second look.
Emerging from the Pack
So just how does the latest Rogue manage to distinguish itself from the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape and other compact crossovers?
Let's start with the most obvious area: seating. The Rogue offers a third row, which means it can seat seven occupants. Since the RAV4 ditched its third row for 2013, the Rogue is now the only compact crossover with seven seats. That's big news for shoppers who want three rows without the size -- or the cost -- of a midsize SUV. Plus, the Rogue's third row is actually surprisingly comfortable, though cargo room is minimal when it's in place.
Interior accolades don't stop there. We're not sure how much owners will use it, but the Rogue has a unique Divide-N-Hide cargo system that lets drivers separate items in the cargo area. It's more substantial and practical than the nets and plastic dividers in rival models.
Materials are also excellent. While the Rogue is no high-end luxury car, we think its cabin is an improvement over nearly all its rivals. There's an abundance of padded surfaces and nicely textured plastics, and panel gaps in the Rogue are noticeably smaller than gaps in rival models. That's a departure for Nissan, which often cuts costs in material quality in order to pack its vehicles full of must-have features.
Technology Tour
But Nissan hasn't cut any features from the Rogue. On the contrary, we're impressed by the crossover's equipment.
Among our favorite gadgets is Nissan's available Around View Monitor. This system stitches together images from four exterior cameras to provide top-down footage showing all angles outside the car -- great for parking and backing up. Better yet, it's now available with a feature called Moving Object Detection, which sounds a chime if there's movement outside the car when reversing. Working together, the two systems effectively eliminate the danger of a tragic back-over accident.
Of course, the Rogue has lots of other high-tech features, as well -- just like many modern cars and SUVs. Think blind spot warning, lane departure warning and forward collision alert, among others. There's also an LCD screen in the gauge cluster and the NissanConnect infotainment system, which offers app integration and hands-free text messaging. We found the system slightly clunky and the screen a little small, though we concede drivers who spend more time with it may have better results.
Not Quite Perfect
It's easy to say the latest Nissan Rogue is in the running for our favorite compact crossover, but that doesn't mean it's perfect. In an effort to achieve class-leading gas mileage, Nissan has dulled its performance a little too much for our tastes. We think the Rogue would be well-served with a more muscular engine option, similarly to the Ford Escape and Kia Sportage.
We also think the Rogue is still a little noisy -- especially at high rpms -- thanks to the droning coming from its CVT. And we think the styling is a little on the bland side.
Still, the 2014 Nissan Rogue makes a compelling case in a segment where few vehicles manage to stand out from the pack. It may not be as well-known as the RAV4, CR-V or Escape, but the latest Rogue merits a spot on your compact-crossover shopping list.


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[caption id="attachment_3820" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="SPC Bradshaw is flanked by backs Clinton Portis (L) and Mike Sellers ®. (Photo credit: Pam Chvotkin)"][/caption]
By Brian Anthony Price/Special to the USO
On a miserable, gray Sunday last week, thousands of loyal Skins fans came out for open practice. They were back early Monday morning to watch in the blazing sun. Rain or shine, a sizable number of these fans were men and women from the armed services, who just can never get enough of Redskins football.
One of them, Specialist (SPC) Robert Bradshaw recently returned from a one-year tour in Afghanistan after having completed over 400 missions. Bradshaw came back to his native D.C. on Saturday August 14th. The next day, he was front and center at Redskins training camp: "This is the first thing I wanted to do, see my Redskins up close. Being here is just awesome."
Turns out, Bradshaw was hoping to meet running back, Clinton Portis. So Zach Bolno, the Redskin's former Executive Director of Communications, set a plan in motion. As he left the field, Portis was directed to Bradshaw and headed right over: "I hear you just got back from combat. Here, I gotta' give these to you." Portis handed the young soldier his workout gloves and sweatbands and signed all 20 of his football cards.
Fullback Mike Sellers was waiting on deck to join them and after the two players posed with Bradshaw for pictures, they thanked him for his service.
Sellers reminisced about growing up the son of an Army man: "My Dad was extremely strict. I always had a curfew, but it helped get me to where I'm at right now. Hard work, perseverance and never quitting: that's what my Dad taught me." He added that having a devoted and local fan base of military families and veterans "is a motivation that a lot of other teams don't have."
Other teammates agree. Linebacker Rocky McIntosh, whose father is an active service member, visited Elgin Air Force Base [near Valparaiso, Florida] and challenged some of the troops to a fitness contest. "They kicked my butt. From push-ups to sit-ups to pull-ups, they tore me up. I was still in the offseason, but they're up bright and early training every day. I didn't stand a chance!"
[caption id="attachment_3821" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="LB London Fletcher signs autographs for members of the U.S.M.C. (PC: Pam Chvotkin)"][/caption]
Guard Derrick Dockery is another player with family ties: "My father-in- law is a retired colonel and was deployed to Iraq several times. The troops are people near and dear to my heart."
The Army wasn't the only branch of the military represented at Redskins camp. The front office invited several active members of the United States Marine Corps out to camp that day. Sgt. Allen Waggoner was one of them. He's been to Iraq twice and is planning on going back for a third tour. When asked why, his response was simple: "We reenlist. It's what we do."
The mutual respect between the Redskins players and the troops is a continual source of inspiration to both.
"They'll leave [camp today] happy to have met a football player. I'll leave just as happy having met people who have served," said veteran linebacker, London Fletcher.
Since joining the Redskins, linebacker Lorenzo Alexander has spent time visiting with wounded soldiers at Walter Reed. "We enjoy going out to Walter Reed every year, giving back, and showing the troops our support. We have a lot of Redskins fans in the military. I love hanging out with them." He added some thoughts about the team and the upcoming season. "There's a lot of optimism and there's a whole new vibe. We know the troops are watching and we want to get some wins for them."
Shout Outs
Trent Williams, OT: "It takes a real man or woman to stand up and fight for our freedom. Be careful, God bless and come home safe."
Andre Carter, DE: "Everything the troops do has not been forgotten. Now hurry up and home come safe. We love you and God bless."
From Maury Povich, who was a special guest at training camp on Monday: "We have it good in this country and the reason for that is what everybody is doing for us overseas in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other places where there are threats. Anybody who is an American understands exactly what their protection means and we're all so grateful to our troops. I want to thank them dearly."
Special thank you to Matt Taylor, Zach Bolno, Angela Alsano, the entire Redskins organization and front office and photographer Pam Chvotkin.
Their journey is everyone's responsibility. From the moment they enlist, through their assignments and deployments, and as they transition back to their communities, they can rely on your support.
More from the USO
Nov 15, 2018
5 Things We Learned About Being a Military Spouse
On November 14, the USO hosted The Salute to Military Spouses, presented in partnership with Politico and Lockheed Martin. We spent a full day not only thanking military spouses for all that they do to support our service members, but also diving deeper into what it means to be a part of the military spouse community. Here are a few things we learned.
Nov 8, 2018
Take A Look Inside 3 USO Centers Around the World
During the World's Biggest USO Tour on September 12 at 8 p.m., we'll connect live with three USO centers on U.S. military bases around the world. Find out how these three centers strengthen our service members by connecting them to family, home and country.


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Air Max 95 No SEW Cool Grey/Dark Obsidian - Wolf Grey
Regular price
Men's Nike Air Max 95 No Sew Running Shoes
The Nike Air Max 95 No-Sew Running Shoes have visible maxed out air technology in the midsole and outsole so you can stay pumped and enjoy a plush cushiony feel in your stride all day long.
Besides extreme comfort, let's get into their style. These running shoes celebrate the look from the mid-90s that just can't help but keep popping back into this day and age.
The sleek silhouette, the no-sew construction, and the contrast color ways are just some of the design features that make these sweet shoes able to add a bold, athletic look to any outfit.
UPPER: Synthetic and mesh
MIDSOLE: Cushlon foam
OUTSOLE: Durable rubbe


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(BPT) – Weekend warriors rule as 2013 is proving to be the year that the do-it-yourself trend reaches full momentum. If you have a weekend to spare, you have plenty of time to make some home improvements that add value and curb appeal. The key is to choose projects that have a big impact, but only take a few days to complete.
The first step in preparing for any home improvement project is ensuring you have all the right tools and supplies. If you need project-specific tools, it may make sense to rent them rather than buy, depending on how many times you plan to use them.
Next, head to a home improvement store for supplies. An invaluable tool for weekend warriors is the Adarac Truck Bed Rack System. This removable rack is compatible with most inside-the-rail tonneau covers, and can be quickly added to your specific truck model within minutes. The system provides a sturdy framework that carries a 500-pound load with ease – perfect for ladders, boxes, lumber, pipes and more.
Consider these projects that can be done in one weekend – each will add impressive curb appeal while enhancing your home's overall value:
1. Garage door upgrade
One of the largest focal points of a house's exterior is the garage door, yet it's often overlooked when it comes time to consider home improvements. An old garage door with dings, scratches and dents can be an eyesore that dates a home. A new garage door can give your house's facade a stylish facelift, revamping the home's look instantly. Modern options are convenient to install and operate, and are sure to impress neighbors, guests and potential buyers, if you are selling. Plus, according the 2013 Cost vs. Value report from Remodeling magazine, replacing a garage door has a 75 percent return on investment, meaning you're sure to add value to your real estate investment.
2. Create a grand welcome
Many people use their garage entranceway as the main way to enter their home, so it's easy to forget about the experience of entering through the front door. That's why it's important to take a moment to walk to your home through the main entrance, like a guest or potential buyer would. Is the experience warm and welcoming, or drab and dated? If the entrance path to your home is less than stellar, a few upgrades will improve it tremendously. Trim overgrown shrubs, add new mulch, paint wood stairs or railways and consider replacing your entry door – a new steel entry door has an impressive 85 percent return on investment. Use your Adarac Truck Bed Rack to move all the supplies, which is simple with the multitude of tie-down points that run the entire length of the system.
3. Reseal the driveway
A cracked, faded driveway can make your property look older than it really is. If you have an asphalt driveway, it's easy to refresh it without a complete replacement or upgrade to concrete. Sealing, while messy, is achievable for even modest DIYers, helping to extend the life of your driveway while adding an attractive cohesive black appearance. Visit your local home improvement store for all necessary supplies. Remember to fill cracks and holes before brushing the sealer over the surface of the driveway. Keep in mind that older driveways that have not been resurfaced may require two coats
These projects have a big impact and can be completed in one weekend or less, making them perfect for today's DIY homeowner. But no matter what home improvement project you decide to take on, make sure you start with a plan and get the appropriate supplies so you can manage your time and budget efficiently.


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Lowenfeld Mosaic Plates, London England, 1955-1965
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PTSD can start after any traumatic event causing nightmares, flashbacks, headaches and an inability to relax. PTSD has debilitating and even fatal consequences including depression, aggression and suicide.
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COLUMBIA, SC (AP/WIS) - Injured running back Marcus Lattimore will attend South Carolina's pro day on March 27, although he won't run in any drills for NFL personnel attending the session.
Lattimore told The Associated Press on Tuesday he plans to talk with interested NFL teams, perhaps catch a few passes and lift weights at the yearly pre-draft workout.
Lattimore injured his right knee against Tennessee last October. He had surgery to repair torn ligaments and has rehabbed in Pensacola, Fla., since giving up his senior year this past December. Lattimore says he's jogged some but won't be cleared to run all-out sprints for another month.
He's met with about 10 NFL teams, yet has given up trying to predict when or if he'll hear his name called during April's draft.
Other USC players planning to attend are: Justice Cunningham, DeVonte Holloman, T.J. Johnson, Ace Sanders, D.J. Swearinger, Devin Taylor, and Shaq Wilson.
Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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Did you know that there are approximately 65,000 apps in the Android marketplace and 350,000 in iTunes? The sheer volume of apps available to suit every single taste and need imaginable is staggering. When it comes to kid-focused apps, there are choices aplenty. Some great, some not so great. There are literally thousands available and even though I haven't come even close to reviewing all of them, I have seen a lot and will share my picks with you on a weekly basis (and will even throw in ones that are great for parents!).
The two apps stars of the week have just been launched into the marketplace – and they're awesome. (Full disclosure: They were developed by Brickmark, a division of our parent company Bonnier in Sweden.)
Cost: $2.99
Ages: 3+
Toca Tea Party brings the time-honored pastime of tea parties to the digital world. Children use the iPad as a virtual tea party setting and can do everything that a good host would do including picking the right tablecloth, dragging and dropping dishes, putting out the right tea cookies and cakes, even cleaning up for guests who spill. Using simple taps and swipes, your child will soon feel like the hostest with the mostest with a beautiful table setting and when guests are happily enjoying their virtual tea and cookies. The app also lets kids clean up all the dishes to get set up for the next fancy tea party.
Works on: iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad
Cost: $1.99
Ages: 3+
If your children are into transportation and making things go, Helicopter Taxi is a must-have app. Using augmented reality, this app uses the device's camera to create an effect of a helicopter flying across the room with your children who, of course, are always on-the-go. By moving the device around, your little pilots steer the helicopter to wherever they want it to fly, and then land on different surfaces to pick up more passengers. The graphics are crisp and strikingly real – your kids will delight in being the navigators of their very own helicopter adventures.
Take a look at the app in action:
If you have an app that you would like considered for Screen Play, please contact firstname.lastname@example.com.