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Nuts & Bolts - December 2013Posted in How To: Tech Qa on October 18, 2013
Tied One On (the Trailer)
Q What is the proper way to tie down a vehicle when trailering? I have been told to make sure I compress the suspension, as this will help save the bearings and keep the vehicle from bouncing. I have also heard to use axle straps and not compress the suspension. Do I cross the tie-downs from side to side, forming an "X," or pull from the closest corner of the vehicle? I have seen vehicles tied down multiple ways and want to know which is right.
Parker J.
Via email@example.com
A The right way to tie down your vehicle is so that it doesn't fall off. There is no one correct way to tie down all vehicles, but I always tie down vehicles by the axles if possible. I run two front straps straight from tie-down points on the trailer deck to axle straps around the axletube, being sure that the axle straps don't rub on sharp suspension mounts or compress or tweak hard or soft brake lines. I usually run the axle straps just inside the steering knuckles on the axletube.
In the rear I also run two straps to axle straps, but back there I usually cross the straps to help keep the vehicle from moving side to side. Plus, since the rear diff is usually centered on the towed vehicle, I usually put the axle straps just outside of the differential on the axletube. For straps I recommend Mac's Ultra Pack from Mac's Custom Tie Downs (www.macscustomtiedowns.com). Mac's offers a full line of different tie-down kits and straps.
I find that strapping the vehicle down by the axle allows the rest of the vehicle to move freely via the suspension. I also put the vehicle in low range in the transfer case and set the parking brake (if it has one) to help make sure it doesn't move while on the trailer. I have been in a vehicle where the towed vehicle came off the trailer, and it is not a good time. Plus, I would hate to be the guy towing a big lifted 4x4 that came off and smashed into a family. That is not a place I ever want to be, so I'm pretty thorough when strapping down.
I have seen many people tie down vehicles above the suspension on the frame. In fact, many tow companies with rollback trucks do just that. I think this is fine, but am always worried that if the trailer were to hit a big bump the suspension could compress and the straps could come loose. Many commercial tow vehicles use chain, but I find straps to be great for the recreational towing I do.
I recommend tying up the ends of your straps with tape, bungee cord, or zip-ties to keep them from flapping. You can also fold them back into the ratchet handle to keep them from getting loose. Be sure and check your straps often. When going on a long trip I usually load the vehicle, get on the road for 20-30 miles, and then stop for fuel and check the straps. This short distance is usually enough to get them settled or jostle them loose if they are inclined to get loose. Make sure to retighten the straps at every fuel stop.
On Track or Off?
Q I have an '03 F-250 I am setting up for more trail duty, but it is also a daily driver. The factory steering sits far too low because the track bar bracket is in the way. I would like to eliminate the track bar in order to move the steering up out of the way. The only problem is the crossover-like steering setup from the factory instead of the old push-pull setup, but trucks that switch to crossover don't always use a track bar. The truck does not have the heavy diesel engine, which I assume is why it was installed with a leaf-spring suspension from the factory. I know there are kits available that relocate the track bar bracket and replace the knuckles, but they are also very expensive. Can the track bar be removed without many negative effects, or am I missing some other reason for it?
Mark F.
Via email@example.com
A I agree, a track bar with a leaf-spring suspension doesn't make sense. Some manufacturers used them while others did not. The track bar is trying to push your axle side to side during suspension movement, when leaf springs want your axle to move front and back. I feel the track bar was installed to force the axle to move in the same arc as the drag link, but it inherently wants to bind against the direction of the leaf springs.
I think some truck builders use a track bar with leaf springs when they go very tall with the lift and feel the need to keep the axle from shifting side to side under the truck (or the truck moving side to side above the axle) when you steer, but leaf springs are usually pretty good at allowing and controlling suspension movement at the same time. I would say remove the track bar and drive it. If it feels like your steering is pushing the truck side to side when you steer the wheel with the truck stopped, it may be time for new spring bushings, but I think ditching the track bar will only help increase the off-road ability of your truck. Just because the factory engineers installed something doesn't mean it was designed to work well off-road in the parameters that we like to use our vehicles in.
Divorced or Together?
Q My friend and I want to build my two-wheel-drive S10 into a 4x4. It is a V-6 manual transmission. I have already purchased some military Chevy 1-ton axles and am looking for advice on the transfer case. Do you know of a divorced transfer case that will work with my project? I am on a pretty low budget, but I can do a lot of the work myself.
Todd F.
Via firstname.lastname@example.com
A A divorced transfer case may seem easy, but I'm not sure it will be really cost-effective. As far as divorced transfer cases that will work with your passenger side front axle are concerned, there is the Suzuki Samurai case, which is probably too small and it has an offset rear output.
Novak Conversions (www.novak-adapt.com) has a kit to put a Spicer 18 or 20 in a divorced setup, and the Spicer 20 wouldn't be a bad option since your military rear axle is a centered pinion GM 14-bolt. The low range in the Spicer 20 is 2:1, which isn't very low. You can, however, get a 3.15:1 low gear set for the Spicer 20 transfer case from Teraflex (www.teraflex.biz). There is a Dodge version of the NP205 that would work also, but it is pretty heavy for an S-10 and only has a 1.97:1 low range.
If you want the 205 you may want to consider the Lowmax 205 that has a 3:1 low range from JB Conversions (www.jbconversions.com), though it may require special work to make it divorced. I know Advance Adapters (www.advanceadapters.com) offers its Atlas transfer case in a divorced mounting style, but this may be at the upper realm of your budget.
The issue with a divorced transfer case is the cost of three driveshafts in addition to building a crossmember and running all the shift linkage into the cab of your 4x4. If you're running the 4.3L V6- you could try to find an SM-465 with a NP205 or Spicer 20 already attached to it from a fullsize Chevy truck or Blazer, which should bolt to the back of your 4.3L V-6 without too much work. Just be sure you get the bellhousing along with the transmission. This won't give you an overdrive gear, but it will give you a granny First gear for off-road crawling, and it will probably be cheaper and easier to find than building a custom divorced transfer case setup.
Lift N Tow
Q I have a stock '84 Jeep J-20. I would like to add 35- to 37-inch tires, but I am afraid of losing the utility of the truck. I am planning to install 4.11 gears, lockers, and a 3- or 4-inch lift. How much will a lift take away from the load carrying and towing ability?
Brandon M.
Via email@example.com
A Very good question. Often the springs used in a lift kit are properly rated for the same load as the stock springs. Some can even allow more load capacity, so be sure and check with the suspension company or your local 4x4 shop before you purchase the lift you desire.
The fact that the truck has a higher center of gravity can affect its load hauling and towing ability. I would not recommend lifting a truck that is primarily a tow rig, as that could require drop hitches and greatly reduce braking ability after adding larger tires. Plus, there is no denying that a lifted truck is a taller truck when it comes time to load or unload the bed. With a good trailer brake controller and a slight lift and tires just a few inches over stock, I don't think you'll have a problem towing, but a stock truck will almost always tow better.
I have a lift on my tow rig, but that is because the truck sees double duty as both tow rig and exploring camping truck, so I wanted the ground clearance for off-road use. I have seen many tow rigs on 37s, but I'd stay with 35s or smaller and just 1-2 inches of lift or a leveling kit if you are more concerned with towing and hauling than off-road use.
Q I have a '79 Jeep J-truck with a TH400 automatic transmission. Will this automatic bolt up to a Chevy V-8? I know Chevy used the TH400 also.
Richard C.
Via email@example.com
A Unfortunately AMC used a different bolt pattern on the TH400 automatics, so they are not the same as the GM TH400. However, the internals are the same, so if you wanted to swap your tranny guts into a Chevy case, then the Chevy engine will bolt onto the transmission.
Screaming Steering
Q I recently picked up a '77 Blazer, 6-inch lift, 37-inch Swampers, Dana 60 front with a Detroit Locker, and Dana 70 rear with Detroit. It has an SM465, an NP205, a GM 400 small-block V-8, and a 10,000-pound Ramsey winch. The problem is if I touch the steering wheel the power steering screams, so I replaced the pump and still have the whining. I would really like hydro assist steering, but I need to save up a bit before I can afford power assist or full hydro. Do you have any idea what may be causing the steering whine? I have a hard time getting tension on the power steering pump belt. I have pry-bar'd the pump until there was tension on the belt and tightened all the bolts. Any help or ideas would be nice because I can›t even get down my driveway without my power steering pump squeaking, let alone think about a trail or rocks.
Salem, OR
A Power steering whine is often caused by low fluid or a restriction in the system. Before you get very far, are you sure the steering system has no air bubbles in it? Start the Blazer and turn the steering all the way in one direction, let it sit there a minute, and then turn it all the way in the other direction and let it sit there a short time. Then double-check that the steering has enough fluid.
Does your steering system have a cooler? You may want to make sure that the cooler is flowing and not blocking up the system. Some vehicles have a cooler that runs into the radiator; be sure there isn't a leak in the cooler where it is getting contaminated by the radiator with coolant. The same goes for the old hoses that could also be collapsing. Is the fluid level possibly low because of a leak, or is there a problem with the steering gearbox itself? Check for leaks around the box and hoses and within the cooler.
One option you have is to upgrade your steering gearbox, cooler, and hoses at this point, and then upgrade your pump and add a ram assist later. For example, you could call PSC Motorsports (www.pscmotorsports.com) and get a steering gear that is plumbed for ram assist but that has the ram-assist ports capped off for now. This box will work just like your current pump but allow you to upgrade to ram assist down the road. I recommend replacing the gearbox, cooler, and hoses when you replace the pump, just in case there are contaminants in the system. Or at least flushing them clean to verify they are flowing right.
When going through your steering system check for leaks, loose or worn-our steering tie rod ends, and possible frame cracks around the steering box mount. Steering and brakes are the most important parts on your truck. I know you want to go drive it, but it would be better to wait until you get it right rather than chance an accident.
More Gear Grunt
Q I have a '75 K-5 Blazer, 350, 465, 205, Dana 60, GM 14-bolt, and 4.10 gears. It had 35s, but I'm going to 37s. It drives well at 65-70 mph, but when pulling trailers uphill the split in the four-speed gear ratios is too wide. I feel I need an in-between gear. It does OK off-road but could be a little lower. A few years ago I found an underdrive splitter box that had a 17 percent split. Now I can't find it anywhere. I recall the price was fair, especially compared to new gears and an overdrive or five-speed tranny, but I can no longer find this gearbox. Can you help me?
Greg R.
Via firstname.lastname@example.com
A You're talking about the Ranger Underdrive from Advance Adapters (www.advanceadapters.com). This is a gear reduction box that goes in front of the SM465 after the bellhousing. They are good gearboxes (I have an overdrive version in my M37 between a V-8 and an SM465), but one complaint about them is the gear whine. Unfortunately Advance Adapters no longer offers the underdrive version to the public, and although the overdrive version is still available and could work for splitting gears, it won't give you lower off-road gearing.
Nuts, I'm Confused
Belts for Dates
Q I have a '79 CJ-7 with the factory lap belts, and my girlfriend's mom will not let her ride with me in the Jeep with just the lap belts. I need some help with how to install three-point belts in that year CJ. The factory roll bar doesn't have an attachment for the three points. Is it OK to drill a hole through the B-pillar bar?
Keith B.
Via email@example.com
A Your girlfriend's mom should be more worried if you showed up in a lifted 4x4 van with a mural of Conan the Barbarian on the side than your seatbelt configuration, but that isn't really the question here. If you drill a hole through your rollcage to mount the upper point of the three-point belt, you should weld a sleeve through to the cage and run a large thick washer on the back side of the roll bar so that the bolt (preferably a Grade 8 bolt) doesn't rip through the bar. Or you could look for an '82-plus CJ-7 or YJ roll bar that already has the provisions for a three-point seatbelt.
Since this requires welding you may want to just skip the three-point belts and go straight to four- or five-point ones, such as those offered by MasterCraft Safety (www.mastercraftsafety.com). Oddly enough, these types of belts are not always street legal depending on your state. To properly mount the harnesses, you should weld a shoulder bar across behind the front seats to the roll bar and run the upper two harnesses to that, and then mount the lap belts to the factory lap belt mounts.
If you really want to impress your girlfriend's mom you could keep the factory lap belt, add a three-point shoulder belt for street driving, and add the four- or five-point harnesses for off-road use. You could also get a haircut and a good job and wear a clean shirt when you pick her daughter up. In fact, I am picking your letter as this month's Nuts, I'm Confused letter and can actually help you with that clean shirt by awarding you some Dickies work gear.
Dickies has been sponsoring our Nuts & Bolts section the past few months and is also giving 4WOR readers a discount by offering 15 percent off your next Dickies.com purchase now through December 31, 2013, with the exclusive discount code WDFWD. Just enter the code at time of purchase for your discount.
As for you, Keith, I'll be sending you a pair of Dickies Duck Insulated Coveralls. These are great for winter wheeling in your old CJ. They will keep you warm and are water-repellant, and they have double knees in case you have to get under the Jeep in the shop or snow. Head-to-toe zippers make for easy removal. These coveralls have heavy brass zippers and tons of pockets, making them great for cold days in open-topped Jeeps or in any Jeep with a tired old heater.
Submission Information
Confused? Email your questions about trucks, 4x4s, and off-roading tech using "Nuts, I'm confused" as the subject and include a picture (if it's applicable). Digital photos must measure no less than 1600 x 1200 pixels (or two megapixels) and be saved as a TIFF, an EPS, or a maximum-quality JPEG file. Also, I'll be checking the forums on our website (www.4wheeloffroad.com), and if I see a question that I think more of you might want to have answered, I'll print that as well. Otherwise drop it old-school style with the envelope addressed to the address below. Letters published in this magazine reflect the opinions of the writers, and we reserve the right to edit letters for clarity, brevity, or other purposes. Write to: Nuts & Bolts, 4-Wheel & Off-Road, 831 S. Douglas St., El Segundo, CA 90245 fax to: 310.531.9368 Email to: email@example.com


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Enterprise Application
Software & Hardware
Professional Service
This story was originally published on Oct. 17, 2013, and is brought to you today as part of our Best of ECT News series.
It is difficult to overstate the importance of social CRM to retailers given the almost tailor-made suitability of Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest et al. for reaching out and engaging with customers.
What's less clear, however, is exactly how retailers should use social CRM to talk with those customers.
Is it open season for social media? That is, is it fair for customers to expect to conduct all of their business over social media? What steps are required for a retailer to launch a social CRM program, anyway -- other than the intern who will be monitoring and responding to tweets? Should the retailer invest all its customer service time and energy to quiet the "squeaky wheel" who has been vocal on Twitter with complaints, while leaving customers who use more private channels high and dry?
Surprisingly, despite the hype and heft of social CRM, many of the answers to these questions are still mysteries to retailers, who must often feel their way around these issues and figure out answers for themselves. Plenty of pitfalls lie in wait along the way. Here are a few to watch out for.
1. Believe You Are Still in Charge
One mistake retailers tend to make is that they think they are still in charge of the customer conversation. Perhaps that is because they are not used to navigating sensitive topics or controversial issues -- all they are doing, after all, is selling a food processor, say, or the latest and greatest toy for the holidays.
Traditional marketing outreach via timely tweets or Facebook ads is not the problem. Rather, the trouble starts if the retailer starts to apply this proactive attitude to other CRM-related activities as well.
"Retailers can no longer afford to dictate to their customers how they will engage with them," Connor Marsden, U.S. lead for Microsoft Dynamics CRM, told CRM Buyer. "Now it is the customers that are dictating to retailers how they will engage and be engaged."
Consider a function far less sexy than marketing or sales: returns. There are many retailers that are aggressive in using the latest in targeting and geofenced mobile marketing but remain old-school in their return policies. While a return, by its nature, requires a trip to the brick and mortar store, or at least the post office, consumers now expect a flexible and personal approach to the process, and have come to see social media as a viable channel to facilitate the return.
"A return can be an emotional transaction, and consumers want it to be seamless -- and easy," Marsden said. "Sending a tweet to inquire about a return policy should not be a big deal for a retailer to handle."
Retailers often blindly and blithely throw themselves into social without making sure their customer data is up to the task, Microsoft's Marsden said.
"The biggest challenge for these companies is building a consolidated database or integrated set of data, then building the appropriate profiles," he explained.
Then comes integration of this data throughout the enterprise, which for some retailers is still an uphill climb.
"Most retailers are strong in engaging with customers socially but they still need to be able to integrate the information they receive from these interactions throughout the enterprise," he noted.
None of this is easy, Marsden said. Which brings us to the next pitfall.
"Start small" is Marsden's best advice to novice retailers -- "and be very thoughtful in how you want to engage and how you want to interact," he said.
"Pick a sub-segment of customers and really focus on them," Marsden suggested. "See what works and then apply what you have learned to a larger sub-segment. Then repeat."
No matter what, "avoid a big bang from the social perspective if you don't have the back-end systems to support it," he warned. "It just won't work."
Without a doubt, social CRM has a dark side for retailers. Because it is so public, a negative tweet, Facebook post or -- worst of all -- video that goes viral can be highly embarrassing.
By now, most retailers know they must have some type of real-time social monitoring and response solution in place, Duke Chung, cofounder and chief marketing officer of Parature, told CRM Buyer.
"Where the tricky part comes in is the potential realignment of priorities to accommodate social CRM," Chung said. "Do you put social customers ahead of customers on other channels because their complaints and questions are in the public view and the expectations for speed of response are so great?
"Do you put more resources into social CRM and invest less time and money into other channels?" he added. "Do you let your customer service reps handle social CRM or do you leave it in marketing hands?"
All of these questions are valid and must be thought through carefully before any social initiative is launched.
It is the smart retailers that view their more influential customers as marketing vehicles, Jerry Jao, CEO of Retention Science, told CRM Buyer.
"They're taking steps to learn which customers have the highest social influence and then figuring out how to incentivize them to promote their brands and products," Jao explained.
A typical example would be a customer with a very large number of Twitter followers and a higher Net Promoter Score being given a bigger discount for sharing her views on a company's products, he said.
"Businesses can leverage data from social CRM to learn about their customers' unique attributes," Jao concluded. "Based on what the data tells them, they can determine the best course of actions to take with each individual."

subset: commoncrawl


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Used Car - 2007 Hyundai Sonata SE XM in Miami, Fl
Please Call For Price
About This 2007 Hyundai Sonata SE XM
Vehicle Location:
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Stock Number:
Fuel Economy Estimates
City MPG
Highway MPG
Combined MPG: 25 - Efficient 30+ MPG
Estimated Monthly Fuel Cost: $89.00*
*Based on $1.78 per gallon and 15k miles per year.
Actual costs may vary.
Actual costs may vary.
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Seller's Description and Comments:
Located at Auto Club Of Miami in Miami, Fl. Call Auto Club Of Miami today at 305-693-0391 for more information about this vehicle.
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2007 Hyundai Sonata ReviewThis car review is specific to this model, not the actual vehicle for sale.
Mid-size sedan offers high value.
There's a new player in the mid-size sedan market, and it's from Hyundai. Yes, Hyundai.
The Hyundai Sonata was showered with media awards last year, when it was redesigned and launched as an all-new model for 2006. MotorWeek called the Sonata the 'Best Family Sedan,' Kiplinger's Personal Finance named it 'Best in Class,' Consumers Digest called it a 'Best Buy,' and Popular Mechanics gave it a 'Safety Excellence' award. Meanwhile, the Sonata finished among the top three mid-size cars in the 2006 J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study. And the Sonata earned the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's five-star crash test rating for front and side impacts, the highest rating given.
For the 2007 model year, the Sonata promises more content for less money. Retail prices have been lowered on the entry GLS models. A new Sonata SE comes standard with the 234-hp V6 engine and 17-inch wheels and tires, and a new top-of-the-line Limited model features a new chrome grille and an optional Infinity premium audio system.
This second-generation Sonata is bigger, better equipped, more technologically advanced and sharper looking than the previous-generation (pre-2006) model. Exterior-wise, it competes primarily against the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry and Nissan Altima; and secondarily against the Chevrolet Malibu, Kia Optima and Ford Fusion. On the inside, however, the Sonata has moved up a class. Sonata is now a large car, with a full-size edge in creature comfort. It's roomier in almost every dimension than its mid-size competitors. Fit and finish are on a par with most others in the class.
In terms of performance, Sonata now equals or bests comparably featured cars. The Hyundai Sonata is a four-door, five-passenger sedan, and comes with a choice of four-cylinder and V6 engines. As you'd expect, the Sonata is aggressively priced, positioned smack in the middle of the range of mid-size sedans.
The 2007 Hyundai Sonata comes in three trim levels, GLS, SE, and Limited. The base engine is a 162-hp four-cylinder. The uplevel engine is a 234-hp V6. The four-cylinder is available with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed Shiftronic automatic. The V6 comes with the five-speed Shiftronic automatic introduced for 2006. Gone is last year's base-level Sonata GL.
The GLS ($17,195) comes with the four-cylinder engine and manual transmission or four-speed automatic ($18,295). Air conditioning; cruise control; power outside mirrors; power windows; central locking with keyless remote; AM/FM/CD/MP3 stereo with six speakers; a leather-wrapped, tilt steering wheel; and 16-inch wheels come standard. XM Satellite Radio will be standard later in the model year. Option packages for the GLS add 17-inch tires with five-spoke aluminum wheels, fog lamps, and luxury features.
The SE ($20,995) comes with the 3.3-liter V6 (with dual, chrome-tipped exhausts), five-speed Shiftronic automatic transmission, larger disc brakes, 17-inch alloy wheels fitted with lower-profile tires, solar-control glass, fog lights, chrome window belt moldings, driver's-seat lumbar support, steering wheel-mounted audio controls and a trip computer. Options include a power/tilt sunroof ($900), eight-way power driver's seat with electrochromic auto-dimming rearview mirror, HomeLink and compass ($550); or all of the above plus CD changer, MP3 player, subwoofer and amplifier ($1,950).
The Limited ($22,995) is a fully equipped luxury model featuring leather seating surfaces, eight-way power driver's seat, heated front seats, automatic climate control with automatic Air Quality System (AQS), electrochromic auto-dimming rear view mirror with HomeLink and compass, telescoping steering wheel, and a sliding center armrest. A new chrome center-bar grille and chrome-accented exterior door handles identify Limited from the outside. The only option is an Ultimate Package ($1750) consisting of a power/tilt sunroof and an Infinity AM/FM/MP3/6-CD changer with six speakers, subwoofer and component amplifier.
Safety features on all Sonatas include the mandatory dual-stage front-seat airbags; front-seat side-impact airbags for torso protection; and full-coverage side curtain airbags designed to provide head protection. Antilock brakes (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) and electronic stability control (ESC) with traction control come standard.
Design tastes are extremely volatile in the automotive world. A styling cue like an arched-eyebrow headlight treatment can go from eye-catching to invisible in a couple years. Or it can survive for decades and come to be accepted as a brand trademark, such as BMW's twin-kidney grille. The Hyundai Sonata hasn't yet found its signature trademark cues, but this new generation shows that its designers are looking in the right places.
The Sonata's fascia is refreshingly clean and spare, with sharply angled headlight housings and a quiet, clean-cut grille topped with a sliver of chrome. Wide and deep openings beneath the front bumper provide a home for tightly focused fog lamps and visually pull the front end closer to the ground, while directing cooling air into the radiator. The striking, concave hood reduces the car's perceived mass without cramping the engine compartment.
The side treatment avoids the all too common wedge look with an almost horizontal beltline riding above softly shouldered fenders and door panels. Mirrored Z-seams where the end corners of the bumpers meet the quarter panels add interest, while blacked-out window surrounds play down the tallish side glass. Extended C-pillars shorten the deck lid, which itself presents a rounded, gently sculpted profile vaguely reminiscent of the much maligned posterior posture of today's BMW sedans. The flat-flanged rims on the up-level 17-inch wheels suggest a high-end European import more than an affordable Asian nameplate.
The taillight outlines repeat the headlight shapes and bookend a broad, trapezoidal license plate inset. Again, there's a hint of other cars' architecture, most notably contemporary Camrys and Accords. Sporty, California hot rod-idiom dual exhausts mark the V6-equipped models.
The interior of this newest Hyundai Sonata marks a major step up the quality ladder. The overall look is clearly competitive with most in the class and better than some. Some rough edges on a few plastic molds and a less-than-lustrous finish on some dash panels are the only shortcomings we noticed.
A polished, hard-surfaced applique capped with a thin slice of chrome divides the upper and lower halves of the dash. The upper is a glare-absorbing dark color, the lower a space-enhancing light tone. The passenger airbag enclosure is seamless, mimicking the trend in higher-end midsize sedans.
As with many modern cars, the stereo head is fully integrated into the dash, making difficult any aftermarket customizing of the sound system but adding an upscale touch. Air conditioner controls are mounted beneath the stereo, within the accent trim centered in the lower portion of the center stack. Stereo and air conditioner controls are substantial, finger-friendly, intuitive knobs and buttons, with status and selections clearly displayed in their respective LCDs.
Three round dials in the hooded instrument cluster communicate the bare necessities of operational data to the driver. The largest is the speedometer, nestled inside a polished circle. To its left is the tachometer, to its right conjoined water temperature and fuel gauges. In the lower dash to the left of the steering column is a bank of five switch plugs, only two of which are employed in the U.S. version, one as an on/off for the ESC, the other the dash-light rheostat. Beyond that is a flip-down storage bin. The ignition key slides into a slot placed where it should be, in the dash to the right of the steering column instead of on the steering column itself. Easier and more elegant when starting or shutting off the car.
All models get a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Redundant controls for the audio (optional on GLS, standard on SE and Limited) are appended to the lower left-side of the hub. They are arrayed somewhat oddly, with the mode selector on top and the volume controlled by the lower two, versus the more common approach of sandwiching the mode button between the volume controls. On the other side of the hub are the standard cruise controls, with a helpful Cancel function. Hyundai says the audio controls will be improved by the end of the model year.
Outward visibility is good, although the wide C-pillars constrict quick, over-the-shoulder traffic checks for lane changing. Rear side windows roll all the way down, thanks to small, fixed, rear quarter windows that move the windows' rear tracks forward in the door, ahead of the wheel well. There's a roof-mounted, hinged assist handle inside every door.
Seats are comfortable, with adequate bolstering for the style of driving to which the Sonata aspires. The standard cloth upholstery looks and feels durable; while the Limited's leather adds a touch of class without pretending to be luxurious. The height adjustment on the driver's seat, both manual and power, pivots on the seat's front mounts, which effectively moves the seat forward as it rises. This compels taller drivers to choose between rearward seat travel and forward sightline, not always a happy compromise. On the upside, this adds inches to rear-seat legroom behind the driver, one of the multitude of measures in which the '06 Sonata bests the competition. Among the primary competitors, the new Sonata comes in second only to the Honda Accord in front and rear headroom, and to the Toyota Camry in rear-seat headroom, and by a mere one- to three-tenths of an inch. And of the second-tier competitors, the Kia Optima alone betters the new Sonata and then only by three-tenths of an inch in front seat hip room.
Rear seats are accommodating, with the bottom cushion in the center position only minimally higher than and nearly as well padded as the outboard positions. Both rear outboard seating positions have adjustable head restraints.
Driving Impression
Korea's car makers have been unabashedly frank about their lack of sophistication in engine technology and metallurgy. They've acknowledged they have some distance to make up to compete in both regards with the best of Japan and, of late, the U.S. and Europe. This latest Hyundai Sonata marks a major step forward in the engine department and more than a couple steps forward in weight reduction.
Both of the 2007 Sonata's engines incorporate some of the latest developments in variable timing of intake valves, achieving the dual benefits of lower emissions and higher fuel efficiency. Both engines are rated LEVII ULEV (Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle) by the Environmental Protection Agency. Additionally, the V6 uses a variable-length intake manifold to fatten the torque curve and make more zip available over a broader range of engine speeds.
Fuel economy for the four-cylinder GLS with manual transmission, as estimated by the EPA, is 24 miles per gallon in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. The V6-powered SE and Limited are rated 20/30 mpg.
Acceleration is brisk in the four-cylinder and brings a grin to the face in the V6. Hyundai officials say the V6 will turn 0-60 miles per hour times of about 7.5 seconds, with a top speed of 130 mph. Shifts are executed easily with the five-speed manual, and chirping the front tires is even easier. The Shiftronic automatic transmission moves between gears smoothly, kicking down for passing with minimal hesitation. The automatic offered responsive performance while tackling the hills of San Francisco. In manual mode, the Shiftronic will upshift automatically when the engine bumps up against redline, and it declines to downshift at all, leaving that to the driver's preferences.
Steering is light and direct, with good on-center feel and directional stability. Brakes are mostly linear, and equipped with Electronic Brake-force Distribution, which improves stability and reduces stopping distances by balancing brake force between the front and rear tires; while ABS allows the driver to maintain steering control under hard braking. Yet we noticed little of the interference we've found with some more complex EBD-equipped systems, and then only in the final stages of a stop. The 17-inch wheel/tire combination makes its presence known on rough pavement, where the shorter sidewalls transmit more of the road's imperfections into the cabin. Wind and road noise is decently muted.
The suspension layout looks good on paper, with double wishbones in front, multiple control links in back, and twin-tube gas-pressure shocks and stabilizer bars all 'round. The V6 boasts a larger front bar to handle the larger engine's extra weight. But how it all works together still needs, well, work. Against the competition, which has been refining its suspension technology for much longer than Hyundai, the Sonata feels less polished, less of a whole. Not that there's anything wrong or necessarily lacking in the ride and handling. It's just that some of the transitions, in direction and between types and qualities of pavement, aren't as smooth as the look and feel of the Sonata promises. The front end tucks in nicely as steering is cranked in, but the car doesn't track as surely as expected. There's also the impression of poorly managed unsprung mass when the rear suspension crosses rough or broken pavement, which suggests the hard parts are a generation or two behind in the alloys used and how they're formed. Still, interstate-intensive travel, even at socially irresponsible speeds, is smooth and unruffled, which is no small achievement.
The 2007 Hyundai Sonata moves the brand closer to Honda, Toyota and Nissan, and competes for buyers considering Ford or Chevrolet. There's nothing unique or especially exciting about driving the new Sonata, save for the fact it's a Hyundai. By that yardstick, and what that portends for shoppers in the class, it's a blast.
NewCarTestDrive.com correspondent Tom Lankard filed this report from San Francisco.
Model Lineup
Hyundai Sonata GLS ($17,195); SE ($20,995); Limited ($22,995).
Assembled In
Montgomery, Alabama.
Options As Tested
Premium Package ($1950) includes 8-way power driver's seat; power tilt/slide glass sunroof; auto-dimming inside rearview mirror with, HomeLink programmable garage door/security system remote and compass; premium audio with subwoofer and amplifier.
Model Tested
Hyundai Sonata SE ($20,995).The Hyundai Sonata has become a large car, with a full-size edge in creature comfort. Fit and finish are now on a par with most others in the class and it is more technologically advanced and sharper looking than ever before. The Hyundai Sonata is a four-door, five-passenger sedan, and comes with a choice of 162-hp four-cylinder and 234-hp V6 engines. The four-cylinder is available with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed Shiftronic automatic. The V6 comes with the five-speed Shiftronic automatic introduced for 2006. Safety features on all Sonatas include the mandatory dual-stage front-seat airbags; front-seat side-impact airbags for torso protection; and full-coverage side curtain airbags, antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and electronic stability control with traction control. For 2007, the Hyundai Sonata trim levels change slightly.
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Webinar: Why ISO 37001 certification matters in 2019
ISO Standards are internationally recognised systems. Learn how certification against ISO 37001 can provide your organization with a globally respected way of proving its commitment to anti-bribery
Ensuring a successful international joint venture through extensive due diligence
Handling Harsco's highest risk joint venture and M&A Due Diligence requests on subjects around the world through our trusted advisors with global capabilites and a high degree of repsonsiveness.
Webinar: Executive outlook for supply chain 2019
SDCE's annual Executive Outlook educational webinar brings together industry executives for a roundtable discussion of the top-level trends and developments taking shape in the supply chain sector.
Drive channel sales by optimising partner onboarding
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The top five areas organisations should focus on to meet GDPR obligations
With the imminent commencement of the European Union's General Data Privacy Regulation (GDPR), companies are struggling to bring their privacy programmes up to the new standard...
Webinar: Using technology to optimise and improve the management of your Gifts, Travel and Entertainment (GTE) programme
Gifts, Travel and Entertainment (GTE) webinar
Supplier Integrity® | Supply Chain Risk Management - Product Developments
A few years ago we recognised that the supply chain was a very weak link in the compliance, integrity and risk world. Suppliers were vetted for so many things but rarely anything that was reputation..
Compliance Managed Services - Product Developments
The Red Flag Group experienced continued growth of Compliance Managed Services in 2017.
IntegraCall® | Secure Compliance Hotline - Product Developments
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IntegraWatch® | Compliance Screening - Product Developments
This year we have created a new business unit, Information Services, to focus on gathering the data that our clients need to properly manage their compliance risks.
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IntegraCheck® | Integrity Due Diligence - Product Developments
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The Market Outlook for 2018
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Letter from our CEO & Executive Chairman
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Webinar: How to perform privacy impact assessments on key compliance programmes to meet your GDPR obligations
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Scouting Report: Orhian Johnson has great size and athleticism and has experience in all spots in the secondary as well as some time at outside linebacker as well. Johnson is rangy with natural ball skills and able to play the pass well and can be a willing tackler against the run. To be a stout defender in the NFL, Johnson needs to add on some muscle, be more consistent with his technique, learn to take better angles to the play and increase his awareness when in coverage and working to anticipate where the QB will go with the ball.
Notes: Johnson was one of the most vocal defenders in practice and helped set up his fellow defensive backs. Johnson is an impact player and played well in his time on the field Saturday and had a tackle for loss as well as a pass defensed. He showed some good job of diagnosing routes and kept the play ahead of him. At his size and speed, teams will want to take a look at the raw tools he has and see if they can coach him into a solid contributor in the NFL.


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"Man of Steel," the reboot of the Superman film franchise, had the biggest opening of a film in June, earning more than $125 million.
It's a real shame that a film that depicts catastrophic destruction of huge swaths of city blocks is entertaining to the masses.
I don't care how many people go see this movie or how much money it makes, the critics are right on this one. To borrow from Shakespeare, the film is full of sound and fury, signifying nothing.
After 30 minutes, I was bored.
The original 1978 "Superman" had the right tone, balancing scenes of Superman flying with lighthearted moments. Hey, comic books were originally written for children, and that tone was carried over to the Batman TV series of the 1960s and the Superman films. Somewhere along the way, though, the superheroes became complicated, angst-filled figures, with comic books giving way to graphic novels.
Director Christopher Nolan's Batman reboot, "The Dark Knight," clearly was geared toward a more adult audience. The problem with going in that direction is that movie studios need a PG-13 rating in order for a film to have a chance at earning blockbuster box-office dollars.
So what's been happening with too many recent movies is that the filmmakers push the action/violence envelope right up to the lip of an R rating. That way parents bring their children and boost earnings.
My 9-year-old son loves the Ironman character, but even I was tempted to cover his eyes during a scene that depicted an airplane disintegrating in midair with passengers free falling. (Do you recall those horrible images from the World Trade Center of people jumping to their deaths?)
It's wrong for parents of young children to take them to movies like "Man of Steel," which, while rated PG-13, is too intense with its realistic depiction of collapsing city buildings and screaming people. Why do so many films nowadays use the real Sept. 11 attacks as a template for film entertainment?
Even before the film started, my family was bombarded with back-to-back trailers of movies that contained scenes of a city's apocalypse: "World War Z," " Elysium," and "Pacific Rim."
I increasingly feel that when I go to the movies, I'm watching an exhibit at some kind of computer trade show showcasing the latest special-effects gadgetry. Where are the stories? Where are the characters? Where are the themes?
Once upon a time, Americans escaped to the movies to watch Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers elegantly dance through the Great Depression.
Today, civilization collapsing and people dying have become escapist entertainment. I certainly hope President Obama will not screen "White House Down" anytime soon.
BRIAN CROSBY is a teacher and the author of Smart Kids, Bad Schools and The $100,000 Teacher. He can be reached at brian-crosby.com.


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2013 Cars for Cure Car Show
The 9th Annual "Cars for the Cure" Heathrow automotive festival will be held the weekend of February 8th - 10th 2013 at beautiful Colonial Town Park in Lake Mary, Florida. This charitable event, hosted by the American Lung Association in Florida, promises to be like no other. Lamborghini, Bugatti, Porsche and Aston Martin are just a few of the over 150 cars that will line the streets of Colonial Town Park for the largest charitable car show in the Southeast United States. Central Florida's 2013 Cars for the Cure will showcase an array of the most distinctive and unforgettable cars from around the world, with proceeds from the day long, family festival to benefit the American Lung Association in Central Florida.
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U.A.I Blog
Check out whats going on in the world of Ultimate Auto Imports. This is more of a behind the scenes look of U.A.I
October 2015


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susansierra needed a new logo design and created a contest on 99designs.
A winner was selected from 199 designs submitted by 41 freelance designers.
Help me brand my voice over business.
Susan Sierra
I'd like something that looks professional and fun. If I end up with a logo I love, this could lead to more work as I may also need help with a website, business cards etc. I will check often and leave feedback...also feel free to ask any questions.
Thanks so much for doing this - I can't wait to see what you come up with!
Susan Sierra soundssmooth.com
I provide professional voice overs - tv and radio commercials, narrations, radio station imaging. My logo should represent my sound (smooth, conversational, warm, professional, honest, sexy, friendly). It will be used on my website (coming soon) and in print. You can listen to a sample of my work at http://www.myspace.com/susansierravo
- I'm thinking dark purples and greens, maybe some silver (classy colors, not bright), but am open to other colors. I will build my website around the logo
- I definitely want it to say "Susan Sierra soundssmooth.com", but I'm curious how "Voice Talent" might be incorporated (not totally necessary though). (all without quotes)
- soundssmooth.com should start with a small letter, but I'd consider a capital letter if you thought that worked better
- it would be great to have an image/s of voice or sound, but it should be fairly subtle (for instance a microphone as the main focal point is too obvious, but intertwined somehow might work)
- Item 1...
Find out how a design contest works or learn more about our logo design services.


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My mother and father were both sixteen years old in 1964. They were living in Anchorage, Alaska, going to West Anchorage High School and had just met and begun to date.
School had been closed for the observance of Good Friday and, as usual in March, there was snow on the ground and dusk was settling on the city of 100,000 as people came home from work and began their evening preparations. My mother, whose father was stationed at Elmendorf Airforce Base on the north side of town, was sitting at the kitchen table finishing up some homework when she felt the shake start.
Anchorage sits on the Rim of Fire at the point where the Pacific tectonic plate rubs up against the North American plate and earthquakes are common so she didn't give it much notice but after fifteen seconds went by and it was still shaking she began to get nervous.
My father was at home with his family. His parents were in the basement of their downtown home working on paperwork for the family business and his brother and sister were off with friends when the shaking began and as the seconds passed without any relief he too began to realize things were serious.
This month marks the 46th anniversary of the 1964 earthquake. At a magnitude of 9.2 it is the third largest known earthquake in all of earth's history and my parents were there when it happened. With the recent events in Haiti and Chile I've been thinking of their experiences and while I'd heard much of their stories before, I sat down with them this weekend to record their memories and share them with you.
I know this podcast is long--nearly thirty minutes--but their experiences are amazing and paint such vivid pictures of what it was like to experience this unique event that I think it's justified. You'll hear their voices and see pictures from state archives that chronicle the damage. What an amazing world we live in when I can sit in Anchorage, Alaska and speak virtually face-to-face with my parents in Bangalore, India then present it to you as a podcast? The quality of sound isn't fabulous but it's good enough--though if you find it's too soft try listening with headphones.
Sponsored by Polkadot Peacock for children's bedding.


text: Latest Analysis News BREAKING: Turkey claims Euphrates Shield a 'success' Does the statement from Turkey mean that Erdogan's forces will quit Syria? Published 2 years ago on March 29, 2017 By Adam 979 Views Share Tweet Turkey's illegal invasion and occupation of Syria is known by Ankara as Operation Euphrates Shield. It formally commenced on the 24th of August, 2016. According to Turkey, Euphrates Shield was aimed at fighting ISIS as well as Kurdish YPG forces near the Turkish border. In reality, Turkey has trained, armed and funded members of the jihadist Free Syrian Army in what Syria classifies as a war of aggression. In recent months, the operation became far more about fighting Kurdish forces in Syria than about any of Turkey's other wider goals such as regime change in Damascus. Turkey's operation had no basis in international law. From seemingly out of the blue, Turkey's National Security Council today announced that Euphrates Shield has been completed. This could mean several things. It could be yet another one of Turkey's many bluffs on the international stage. Whilst Turkey's National Security Council claims the operation has ended successfully, there is every possibility that both direct Turkish aggression against Syria as well as aggression from its FSA proxies could continue into the foreseeable future. But if the statement turns out to actually be backed up by realities on the ground, there are two distinct possibilities behind it. Although Syria has complained before the UN and other international bodies of the illegal nature of Turkey's aggressive invasion and occupation of Syrian territory, such expressions of frustration with Turkey have largely fallen on deaf ears. However, if Russia or America made their private views known to Turkish President Erdogan, this could have impacted Turkish decision making. For slightly different reasons, both Trump's United States and Putin's Russia have desired an end to Turkish meddling in Syria. Russia is privately and to some extent publicly, angry at Turkey's totally destabilising role in Syria. Russia speaks from the perspective of both an integral ally of the Syrian Arab Army's campaign against terrorism, but also as a power which has looked favourably to Krudish efforts to fight various jihadist groups including both the Turkish backed FSA and the Saudi/Qatari backed ISIS. America, even under Trump, has no real time for the legitimate government in Syria but is instead, hellbent on utilising Kurds to both fight the war against militant Salifism. Additionally Washington wants Kurds to form the nexus of a post-war settlement. Because of this, America would not want a putative ally (and fellow NATO member) in Turkey to be fighting against their favourite proxies in the Syrian conflict. In terms of destabilising Syria, emboldening pro-Turkish terrorists and prolonging conflict, Euphrates Shield has indeed been a success. But in terms of making gains against Kurds, making meaningful gains against the Syrian Arab Army, getting America and Russia to change their thinking and most importantly to help oust President al-Assad, Euphrates Shield has been a colossal failure for Turkey. In this sense, there is a distinct possibility that Erdogan has proclaimed 'mission accomplished' for domestic consumption ahead of his referendum for extra Presidential powers set for the 16th of April. Erdogan is no stranger to using external events in order to bolster his domestic popularity. The biggest question remains, will Turkey actually now leave Syrian territory, taking their FSA fighters with them? Or inversely, is this yet another meaningless statement from a Turkish regime known for half-truths and downright lies? Time will tell. Liked it? Take a second to support The Duran on Patreon! Related Topics:featuredRussiaDonald TrumpVladimir PutinRecep Tayyip ErdoganTurkeySyriaterrorismKurdsMiddle EastOperation "Euphrates Shield"SDFFSAYGP Up Next Nearly half of Russians want Donbass freedom Don't Miss On "Brexit Day" both Remain and Leave cling to their illusions Advertisement You may like Why did Trump recognize the Golan Heights as Israeli territory? Russia Gives US Red Line On Venezuela US media suffers panic attack after Mueller fails to deliver on much-anticipated Trump indictment Click to comment Leave a Reply This comment form is under antispam protection This comment form is under antispam protection Subscribe Notify of new follow-up comments new replies to my comments Latest Why did Trump recognize the Golan Heights as Israeli territory? The Duran Quick Take: Episode 116. Published 13 hours ago on March 24, 2019 By Alex Christoforou The Duran's Alex Christoforou and Editor-in-Chief Alexander Mercouris examine the reasons behind US President Trump's sudden recognition of the Golan Heights as Israeli territory. Following Trump's statements as US President, acting Israeli Foreign Minister is saying that Trump will make it official and sign an executive order to recognize Israel's sovereignty over the Syrian border territory on Monday. Remember to Please Subscribe to The Duran's YouTube Channel. Follow The Duran Audio Podcast on Soundcloud. Via DW… Israel says White House officials are preparing an official document to codify support for Israel's sovereignty of the Golan Heights, which will be signed by US President Donald Trump on Monday. The signing of the decree will be witnessed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during talks with Trump at the White House, Israel's acting foreign minister, Israel Katz (pictured), said in a Tweet. "Tomorrow, President Trump, in the presence of PM Netanyahu, will sign a decree recognizing Israel's sovereignty on the Golan. Israel-US ties are closer than ever," Katz said. אני נערך להופיע היום בפני אלפי משתתפי ועידת אייפק בוושינגטון. התבשרנו כעת כי מנהיגי הונדורס ורומניה הודיעו בועידה על כוונתן להעביר את שגרירויותיהן לירושלים. מחר יחתום הנשיא טראמפ, בנוכחות רה״מ נתניהו, על צו המכיר בריבונות ישראל בגולן. יחסי ישראל ארה״ב הדוקים מאי פעם. — ישראל כ"ץ Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) March 24, 2019 Israel seized the strategic plateau from Syria in the 1967 Middle East war, subsequently annexing it in 1981 in a move never recognized by the international community. Trump's tweet annoys allies Trump broke with decades of US Middle East policy when he posted a Tweet on Thursday that said it was time to accept Israel's widely-contested claim to the border territory. The decision has been criticized by many US allies — Germany, Britain, France and the EU have all said they still consider the Golan Heights to be "occupied" by Israel. Syria and other states in the region said the recognition, if confirmed, would violate international law. Netanyahu has long pushed for Washington's endorsement, and many analysts see Trump's comments as a campaign gift ahead of Israel's April 9 election. In 2017, Trump drew condemnation throughout the Middle East when he recognized the disputed city of Jerusalem as Israel's capital. Liked it? Take a second to support The Duran on Patreon! Continue Reading Latest Russia Gives US Red Line On Venezuela Political force is out. Military force is out. Respect international law and Venezuela's sovereignty. That's Russia's eminently reasonable ultimatum to Washington. Published 21 hours ago on March 24, 2019 By Finian Cunningham Authored by Finian Cunningham via The Strategic Culture Foundation: At a high-level meeting in Rome this week, it seems that Russia reiterated a grave warning to the US – Moscow will not tolerate American military intervention to topple the Venezuelan government with whom it is allied. Meanwhile, back in Washington DC, President Donald Trump was again bragging that the military option was still on the table, in his press conference with Brazilian counterpart Jair Bolsonaro. Trump is bluffing or not yet up to speed with being apprised of Russia's red line. The meeting in the Italian capital between US "special envoy" on Venezuelan affairs Elliot Abrams and Russia's deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov had an air of urgency in its arrangement. The US State Department announced the tête-à-tête only three days beforehand. The two officials also reportedly held their two-hour discussions in a Rome hotel, a venue indicating ad hoc arrangement. Abrams is no ordinary diplomat. He is a regime-change specialist with a criminal record for sponsoring terrorist operations, specifically the infamous Iran-Contra affair to destabilize Nicaragua during the 1980s. His appointment by President Trump to the "Venezuela file" only underscores the serious intent in Washington for regime change in Caracas. Whether it gets away with that intent is another matter. Moscow's interlocutor, Sergei Ryabkov, is known to not mince his words, having earlier castigated Washington for seeking global military domination. He calls a spade a spade, and presumably a criminal a criminal. The encounter in Rome this week was described as "frank" and "serious" – which is diplomatic code for a blazing exchange. The timing comes at a high-stakes moment, after Venezuela having been thrown into chaos last week from civilian power blackouts that many observers, including the Kremlin, blame on American cyber sabotage. The power grid outage followed a failed attempt by Washington to stage a provocation with the Venezuelan military over humanitarian aid deliveries last month from neighboring Colombia. The fact that Washington's efforts to overthrow the elected President Nicolas Maduro have so far floundered, might suggest that the Americans are intensifying their campaign to destabilize the country, with the objective of installing US-backed opposition figure Juan Guaido. He declared himself "acting president" in January with Washington's imprimatur. Given that the nationwide power blackouts seem to have failed in fomenting a revolt by the civilian population or the military against Maduro, the next option tempting Washington could be the military one. It seems significant that Washington has recently evacuated its last remaining diplomats from the South American country. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo commented on the evacuation by saying that having US personnel on the ground "was limiting" Washington's scope for action. Also, American Airlines reportedly cancelled all its services to Venezuela in the past week. Again, suggesting that the US was considering a military intervention, either directly with its troops or covertly by weaponizing local proxies. The latter certainly falls under Abrams' purview. After the Rome meeting, Ryabkov said bluntly: "We assume that Washington treats our priorities seriously, our approach and warnings." One of those warnings delivered by Ryabkov is understood to have been that no American military intervention in Venezuela will be tolerated by Moscow. For his part, Abrams sounded as if he had emerged from the meeting after having been given a severe reprimand. "No, we did not come to a meeting of minds, but I think the talks were positive in the sense that both sides emerged with a better understanding of the other's views," he told reporters. "A better understanding of the other's views," means that the American side was given a red line to back off. The arrogance of the Americans is staggering. Abrams seems, according to US reporting, to have flown to Rome with the expectation of working out with Ryabkov a "transition" or "compromise" on who gets the "title of president" of Venezuela. That's what he no doubt meant when he said after the meeting "there was not a meeting of minds", but rather he got "a better understanding" of Russia's position. Washington's gambit is a replay of Syria. During the eight-year war in that country, the US continually proffered the demand of a "political transition" which at the end would see President Bashar al Assad standing down. By contrast, Russia's unflinching position on Syria has always been that it's not up to any external power to decide Syria's politics. It is a sovereign matter for the Syrian people to determine independently. Nearly three years after Russia intervened militarily in Syria to salvage the Arab country from a US-backed covert war for regime change, the American side has manifestly given up on its erstwhile imperious demands for "political transition". The principle of Syrian sovereignty has prevailed, in large part because of Russia's trenchant defense of its Arab ally. Likewise, Washington, in its incorrigible arrogance, is getting another lesson from Russia – this time in its own presumed "back yard" of Latin America. It's not a question of Russia being inveigled by Washington's regime-change schemers about who should be president of Venezuela and "how we can manage a transition". Moscow has reiterated countless times that the legitimate president of Venezuela is Nicolas Maduro whom the people voted for last year by an overwhelming majority in a free and fair election – albeit boycotted by the US-orchestrated opposition. The framework Washington is attempting to set up of choosing between their desired "interim president" and incumbent Maduro is an entirely spurious one. It is not even worthy to be discussed because it is a gross violation of Venezuela's sovereignty. Who is Washington to even dare try to impose its false choice? On Venezuela, Russia is having to remind the criminal American rulers – again – about international law and respect for national sovereignty, as Moscow earlier did with regard to Syria. And in case Washington gets into a huff and tries the military option, Moscow this week told regime-change henchman Abrams that that's a red line. If Washington has any sense of rationale left, it will know from its Syria fiasco that Russia has Venezuela's back covered. Political force is out. Military force is out. Respect international law and Venezuela's sovereignty. That's Russia's eminently reasonable ultimatum to Washington. Now, the desperate Americans could still try more sabotage, cyber or financial. But their options are limited, contrary to what Trump thinks. How the days of American imperialist swagger are numbered. There was a time when it could rampage all over Latin America. Not any more, evidently. Thanks in part to Russia's global standing and military power. Liked it? Take a second to support The Duran on Patreon! Continue Reading Latest With RussiaGate Over Where's Hillary? Hillary is the epitome of envy. Envy is the destructive sin of coveting someone else's life so much they are obsessed with destroying it. It's the sin of Cain. She envies what Trump has, the Presidency. Published 21 hours ago on March 24, 2019 By Tom Luongo Authored by Tom Luongo: During most of the RussiaGate investigation against Donald Trump I kept saying that all roads lead to Hillary Clinton. Anyone with three working brain cells knew this, including 'Miss' Maddow, whose tears of disappointment are particularly delicious. Robert Mueller's investigation was designed from the beginning to create something out of nothing. It did this admirably. It was so effective it paralyzed the country for more than two years, just like Europe has been held hostage by Brexit. And all of this because, in the end, the elites I call The Davos Crowd refused to accept that the people no longer believed their lies about the benefits of their neoliberal, globalist agenda. Hillary Clinton's ascension to the Presidency was to be their apotheosis along with the Brexit vote. These were meant to lay to rest, once and for all time, the vaguely libertarian notion that people should rule themselves and not be ruled by philosopher kings in some distant land. Hillary's failure was enormous. And the RussiaGate gambit to destroy Trump served a laundry list of purposes to cover it: Undermine his legitimacy before he even takes office. Accuse him of what Hillary actually did: collude with Russians and Ukrainians to effect the outcome of the election Paralyze Trump on his foreign policy desires to scale back the Empire Give aid and comfort to hurting progressives and radicalize them further undermining our political system Polarize the electorate over the false choice of Trump's guilt. Paralyze the Dept. of Justice and Congress so that they would not uncover the massive corruption in the intelligence agencies in the U.S. and the U.K. Isolate Trump and take away every ally or potential ally he could have by turning them against him through prosecutor overreach. Hillary should have been thrown to the wolves after she failed. When you fail the people she failed and cost them the money she cost them, you lose more than just your funding. What this tells you is that she has so much dirt on everyone involved, once this thing started everyone went along with it lest she burn them down as well. Burnin' Down da House Hillary is the epitome of envy. Envy is the destructive sin of coveting someone else's life so much they are obsessed with destroying it. It's the sin of Cain She envies what Trump has, the Presidency. And she was willing to tear it down to keep him from having it no matter how much damage it would do. She's worse than the Joker from The Dark Knight. Because while the Joker is unfathomable to someone with a conscience there's little stopping us from excising him from the community completely., even though Batman refuses. Hillary hates us for who we are and what we won't give her. And that animus drove her to blackmail the world while putting on the face of its savior. And that's what makes what comes next so obvious to me. RussiaGate was never a sustainable narrative. It was ludicrous from the beginning. And now that it has ended with a whimper there are a lot of angry, confused and scared people out there. Mueller thought all he had to do was lean on corrupt people and threaten them with everything. They would turn on Trump. He would resign in disgrace from the public outcry. It didn't work. In the end Paul Manafort, Michael Cohen and Roger Stone all held their ground or perjured themselves into the whole thing falling apart. Andrew Weissman's resignation last month was your tell there was nothing. Mueller would pursue this to the limit of his personal reputation and no further. Just like so many other politicians. Vote Your Pocketbook With respect to Brexit I've been convinced that it would come down to reputations. Would the British MP's vote against their own personal best interests to do the bidding of the EU? Would Theresa May eventually realize her historical reputation would be destroyed if she caves to Brussels and betrays Brexit in the end? Always bet on the fecklessness of politicians. They will always act selfishly when put to the test. While leading RussiaGate, Mueller was always headed here if he couldn't get someone to betray Trump. And now his report is in. There are no new indictments. And by doing so he is saving his reputation for the future. And that is your biggest tell that HIllary's blackmail is now worthless. They don't fear her anymore because RussiaGate outed her as the architect. Anything else she has is irrelevant in the face of trying to oust a sitting president from power. The progressives that were convinced of Trump's treason are bereft; their false hope stripped away like standing in front of a sandblaster. They will be raw, angry and looking for blood after they get over their denial. Everyone else who was blackmailed into going along with this lunacy will begin cutting deals to save their skins. The outrage over this will not end. Trump will be President when he stands for re-election. The Wolves Beckon The Democrats do not have a chance against him as of right now. When he was caving on everything back in December it looked like he was done. That there was enough meat on the RussiaGate bones to make Nancy Pelosi brave. Then she backed off on impeachment talk. Oops. But the Democrats have a sincere problem. Their candidates have no solutions other than to embrace the crazy and go full Bolshevik. That is not a winning position. Trump will kill them on 'socialism.' The Deep State and The Davos Crowd stand revealed and reviled. If they don't do something dramatic then the anger from the rest of the country will also be palpable come election time. Justice is not done simply by saying, "No evidence of collusion." It's clear that RussiaGate is a failure of monumental proportions. Heads will have to roll. But who will be willing to fall on their sword at this point? Comey? No. McCabe? No. There is only one answer. And Obama's people are still in place to protect him. I said last fall that "Hillary would indict herself." And I meant it. Eventually her blackmail and drive to burn it all down led to this moment. The circumstances are different than I expected back then, Trump didn't win the mid-terms. But the end result was always the same. If there is no collusion, if RussiaGate is a scam, then all roads lead back to Hillary as the sacrificial lamb. Because the bigger project, the erection of a transnational superstate, is bigger than any one person. Hillary is expendable. Lies are expensive to maintain. The truth is cheap to defend. Think of the billions in opportunity costs associated with this. Once the costs rise above the benefits, change happens fast. If there is any hope of salvaging the center of this country for the Democrats, the ones that voted against Hillary in 2016, then there is no reason anymore not to indict Hillary as the architect of RussiaGate. We all know it's the truth. So, the cheapest way out of this mess for them is to give the MAGApedes what they want, Hillary. And hope that is enough bread and circuses to distract from the real storm ahead of us. Liked it? Take a second to support The Duran on Patreon! Continue Reading JOIN OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL Your donations make all the difference. Together we can expose fake news lies and deliver truth. Amount to donate in USD$: 5 100 Validating payment information... Waiting for PayPal...Validating payment information...Waiting for PayPal... 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Glacier Bay National Park
The marine wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve provides opportunities for adventure, a living laboratory for observing the ebb and flow of glaciers, and a chance to study life as it returns in the wake of retreating ice. Amidst majestic scenery, Glacier Bay offers us now, and for all time, a connection to a powerful and wild landscape.
The park has snow-capped mountain ranges rising to over 15,000 feet, coastal beaches with protected coves, deep fjords, tidewater glaciers, coastal and estuarine waters, and freshwater lakes. These diverse land and seascapes host a mosaic of plant communities ranging from pioneer species in areas recently exposed by receding glaciers, to climax communities in older coastal and alpine ecosystems. Diverse habitats support a variety of life including seabirds, marine and terrestrial mammals that provide ideal conditions for wildlife viewing and for research as we endeavor to learn more about the world around us.


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KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- Members of the STS-107 crew take part in In-Flight Maintenance training for their mission. One of the payload elements on the mission is the SPACEHAB Double Module in its first research flight into space. Working with equipment inside the SPACEHAB Double Module are (front) Payload Specialist Ilan Ramon (left), astronaut from Israel, and Commander Rick D. Husband; (back) Mission Specialist David Brown, SPACEHAB trainer David Butler, and Pilot William C. "Willie" McCool. Research mission STS-107 is scheduled to launch July 19, 2001 (Photo Release Date: 12/06/2000 )
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If a recognizable person appears in this photograph, use for commercial purposes may infringe a right of privacy or publicity. It may not be used to state or imply the endorsement by NASA of a commercial product. These photographs are available for preview and download in electronic digital form ONLY. They may not be ordered from NASA in photograph form. (See NASA Copyright Notice)


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New Student Online Orientation
WELCOME to Lone Star College – Online!
We are glad you have decided to take online courses with us.New Student Online Orientation sessions are for first time in college students planning to take ONLY online courses for the upcoming semester.
New Student Online Orientation Process:
- Submit your Lone Star College Application
- Take placement test or submit test scores;
Visit our Placement Testing site for more information
- Complete an Online Orientation session
(your online advisor will provide you with proper access)
- Complete Online Readiness Assessment
(login using your myLoneStar username and password)
- Complete an Online Advising and Registration session with an online advisor PLEASE NOTE: New Student Online Orientation is for first time in college, fully online students ONLY.
Online Advising
To request that an Online Advisor to contact you, please fill out the following request form:


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Student-athlete fluidly moves from team to team—while keeping a keen eye on her personal and professional goals
A. Sue Weisler
Sharon Dennis is someone you want on your team. She is hardworking, determined and loyal, with an intense competitive streak that makes everyone around her work harder to keep up.
Dennis' work ethic is visible on the basketball court, where she rose to rookie stardom last year as a center. The first-year student from Liverpool, N.Y., was named the 2009 Empire 8 Rookie of the Year as well as the East Region Division 3 Rookie of the Year.
"Sharon is one of two captains this year—in my five years of coaching I have never elected a sophomore to be a captain," says Amy Reed, head women's basketball coach. "Sharon shows maturity beyond her years both on the court and off the court. Her teammates respect her and look up to her."
Most rookies, barring injury, would follow a splashy debut with three more years of impressive play. Dennis is doing things differently; she will follow her debut with her finale. She is, at heart, a basketball player and also a dedicated student in RIT's physician assistant program. Dennis knew she would have to leave the athletics program behind to focus on the grueling third and fourth years of the academic program, a time reserved for studying medicine and beginning rotations in hospitals and clinics.
"I love basketball—I'm a very competitive person—but at the end of the day, I'm not going to play in the WNBA; I came here to be a physician assistant," says Dennis. "That's what's most important."
For now, Dennis still has a game to play and is thrilled the season is finally underway. Exhausting early morning practices will keep Dennis and her teammates focused throughout the long season, which stretches into February.
"I'm really excited because we have a lot of freshmen and people coming back. We have experience now. I feel like we're going to win a lot more games this year."
RIT President Bill Destler has praised RIT's student-athletes, noting that they carry higher grade point averages than the rest of the student body. In fact, the 647 athletes held a cumulative grade point average of 3.16 in 2008-2009, higher than the general student population. Dennis had a 3.7 grade point average last year, the best on the basketball team.
Dennis' love for basketball has never eclipsed her commitment to academics, a priority she learned from her parents. She attributes the academic success of student-athletes to a mastery of time management.
"I think student-athletes are better at managing time because we have to," Dennis says. "Once I got to college, I found out that I really had to schedule almost everything in my life. I actually found myself scheduling homework time as well as a nap here and there."
Dennis also schedules one weekend each month and holidays to work as a phlebotomist at St. Joseph's Hospital Health Care Center in Syracuse, a condition she agreed to when offered the position during the summer. She describes the phlebotomy lab as "tight-knit," and a place where everyone works together. Dennis' co-workers let her practice on them and were quick to offer help during her first few weeks.
"Drawing blood is a very precise procedure with little room for error," Dennis says. "If I make a mistake on the court, I can always make it up somewhere else. If you make a mistake with a needle in someone's vein, the consequences can be serious and the patient will be in pain."
Dennis takes her commitments seriously from her moves on the basketball court to her studies in the physician assistant program to the hospital where she is experiencing a hands-on education in health care.


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Production of the Mustang began in Dearborn, Michigan on March 9, 1964 and the automobile was presented to the public on April 17, 1964 at the New York World's Fair. It is Ford's 3rd oldest nameplate presently in production. Original sales forecasts projected less than 100,000 systems for the first year. This mark was exceeded in three months from rollout. Another 318,000 would be offered during the design year (a record), and in its first eighteen months, more than one million Mustangs were constructed.
Best Deals Buy Classic Ford Mustangs
All of these were VIN-identified as 1965 models, but several changes were made at the conventional opening of the new model year (beginning August 1964), including the addition of back-up lights on some designs, the intro of alternators to change generators, and an upgrade of the V8 engine from 260 cu into 289 cu in. When it comes to a minimum of some six-cylinder Mustangs fitted with the 101 hp 170 cu in Falcon engine, the rush into production consisted of some uncommon quirks, such as a horn ring bearing the 'Ford Falcon' logo design beneath a trim ring emblazoned with 'Ford Mustang.' These attributes made enough difference to call for classification of the 121,538 earlier ones as "1964 1/2" model-year Mustangs, a difference that has sustained with purists. Mustangs For Sale in Forest Lake MN are easy to find now with online shopping.
The 1973 OPEC oil embargo brought with it more strict contamination laws and the desire for fuel-efficiency. This was also the very first time in automobile history that the Big 3 were needing to take on imports. The brand-new Mustang II was smaller sized than the very first variation but, due to the additional devices required to satisfy new United States emission and security policies, was much heavier than the first model. Efficiency was reduced and in the very first year just 385,993 cars were offered.
Second generation Mustangs for sale in Forest Lake MN were available in between 1974 and 1978 and available in a coupe and hatchback variation. 1979 the Mustang was revamped a third time. This time it was based on the larger Fox platform and the interior was really huge enough for 4 people. The trunk was bigger therefore was the engine bay. The body designs available included a coupe, hatchback and in 1983 a convertible. In 1979 the 3rd generation Mustang acted as an Indianapolis 500 pace vehicle and Ford constructed 10,478 commemorative reproductions. The third generation Mustangs were produced from 1979 to 1982.


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FCW rolls past Crossroads for sixth win
Using the need to notch a victory to get to six wins as motivation, Flanagan-Cornell-Woodland dominated Big Rock Crossroads Academy 34-14 in nonconference action Friday night at Woodland.
As he has been for most of the season, Kody Appel was the main weapon employed by the Falcons as he rushed for 208 yards and two touchdowns in the Senior Night victory.
FCW head coach Troy Kaupp said his team came out with a purpose.
"We didn't know much about these guys," Kaupp said. "We came out and played like we have the last few weeks and just took care of business."
Taking care of business was an understatement as the Falcons took the opening kickoff and marched down the field. It was Appel handling all five rushes to cover the 65 yards.
Appel went 40, 10, 8, 6 before crashing through from 1 yard out for the touchdown. It took the Falcons just 2:04 to put points on the board and produced a lead they would not relinquish.
"Kody ran hard and we also knew we could do some things against them and we wanted to work on some things for the playoffs," Kaupp said.
The Falcons' defense was in control of the game all night long. FCW held the Crusaders to a paltry four first downs in the first half with one of those coming via penalty.
Good thing, too, because Flanagan-Cornell-Woodland (6-3) didn't dent the scoreboard again until there was 6:50 remaining in the half.
The Falcons took over on their own 46 yard line after a defensive stand. The first play was a Keegan Bertsche-to-Jon Hays pass that covered 32 yards. Appel was called upon and promptly bolted untouched 24 yards to put the Falcons up 12-0.
The Crusaders (3-5) could muster no offense against the stingy Falcon defense in the first half.
FCW began its next scoring possession at midfield after a Crossroads punt.
Appel gained four yards and Bertsche hooked up with Hays for a 34-yard pass play. With a second and nine, Berstche found Ben Spencer all alone in the end zone for an 11-yard scoring strike.
The Falcons went into the locker room with a commanding 18-0 advantage.
"We knew we had to win this game to get in (the playoffs) and the kids knew it and we responded," exclaimed a jubilant Kaupp.
The Falcons didn't hesitate to go to their backup players, who played most of the second half. Appel carried the ball only twice in the second half, but one was a zig-zag run past diving Crusader defenders.
That jaunt was good for 22 yards and set up a Bertsche-to-Hays touchdown pass for 17 yards. Austin Dutko punched in the extra points to give FCW a 28-0 lead.
The Crusaders and Falcons couldn't hold onto the ball for four successive possessions in the third quarter. Kaupp blamed those miscues on the weather.
"We fumbled the ball a few times when we ran it, it was just cold, it was the first real cold game we've gotten into," Kaupp said.
The Crusaders finally crossed the goal line with 6:33 remaining in the game as Adam Rogman plunged over from 2 yards to cut the deficit to 28-7.
Then the Falcons had a little fun on the ensuing kickoff. Dutko took the ball at his own 10 yard, stumbled and almost fell at the 19, then ran into a wall of Crusaders at the 29 before somehow finding an opening and streaked down the sideline in front of the Crossroads bench. He went unscathed the rest of the way and put the Falcons up 34-7. Dutko's run covered 90 yards.
The Crusaders would add a meaningless touchdown with 4:27 to go to make the final 34-14.
Appel had his yardage on 19 carries, Dutko made the most of his 6 carries for 42 yards. Berstche was 4 of 12 passing for 99 yards. Hays hauled in 89 of those yards.
The Falcons will have to wait and see who they play when the pairings come of later tonight.


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2017 Theater Year in Review: Featured Actor, Musical
It's impossible for one person to see every local production that takes the stage, but as the Orlando Sentinel's theater critic, I saw a broad spectrum of shows throughout the region. Those selected by me for this 2017 theatrical honor roll, presented here alphabetically, elevated the art of theater for Central Florida audiences.Go to OrlandoSentinel.com/yearintheater to review every category, and check back the week of Dec. 25 to learn the Critic's Pick in this category.
Matthew J. Palm
Copyright © 2019, Orlando Sentinel


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Pedestrian Safety
The Pedestrian Safety Traffic Team was formed in spring 2002 in conjunction with Crime Prevention and the Governor's Office of Highway Safety to assist with traffic enforcement and pedestrian safety within the campus and in downtown Atlanta. The team's goal is to help ensure safety on the streets of Atlanta and to maintain a pedestrian-friendly traffic environment.
The overall operation of this unit places emphasis on:
- Pedestrian education for crosswalks
- Distribution of PEDs pamphlets
- Traffic stops and citations for moving violations
- Jaywalking citations
Pedestrian Safety Tips and Georgia Law
- A pedestrian shall obey the instructions of a traffic-control device. (O.C.G.A. 40-6-90)
- The driver of a vehicle shall stop and remain stopped to allow a pedestrian to cross the roadway within a crosswalk. (O.C.G.A. 40-6-91)
- Whenever a vehicle is stopped at a crosswalk, another shall not overtake or pass such stopped vehicle.
- A pedestrian shall yield the right of way to all vehicles outside of a marked crosswalk. (O.C.G.A. 40-6-91)
- A pedestrian shall not suddenly walk in front of traffic when it is impractical for the driver to yield.
- Where a sidewalk is provided, it shall be unlawful for any pedestrian to walk along and upon an adjacent roadway. (O.C.G.A. 40-6-96)
- When making a turn, vehicles must stop and remain stopped for pedestrians crossing legally inside of a crosswalk. (O.C.G.A. 40-6-21)
Crossing Streets Safely
- Look both ways before crossing the street.
- Look to see if cars are approaching the intersection to turn.
- Be aware of what the traffic lights indicate.
- Be attentive to the crossing signal and be mindful of its instructions.
- Don't walk in front of traffic when it is impractical for the driver to yield.
- If you walk outside of a crosswalk you must yield the right of way to vehicles.
- Vehicles should stop and remain stopped to allow you to cross the roadway within a crosswalk.
- Whenever a vehicle is stopped at a crosswalk, watch for other vehicles approaching.
Preventing Crime Safely
- Walk with confidence, shoulders back and head up. Look around, be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. If something does not look or feel right, stop to see what has triggered your fear. Do not ignore your instincts. They are your first line of defense.
- Walk in groups. There is safety in numbers.
- If you sense that you are being followed, change your direction or pace. If the person following you does likewise, seek a safe place where there are people and lights and bring attention to yourself. Try to remember an accurate description of the suspect.
- Avoid undesirable areas or shortcuts. If you make a wrong turn, go back immediately. Don't take chances.
- If approached on the street, make brief, stern eye contact and continue walking. If someone insists on talking, acknowledge his or her presence with a nod and continue walking. Do not stop and engage in a conversation.
- Never get into a vehicle, even if forced at the point of a gun. Your chance of survival on the street is better than in a vehicle or remote location of the abductor's choice.
Remember, our streets are not just for cars.
We share them with pedestrians, bicyclists and public transit.
By knowing the rules, we can help make Atlanta's streets safer.


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By Matthew Heimer
Baby boomers and their financial advisers can tie themselves in knots trying to plan financially for medical costs in retirement – accumulating some extra nest-egg padding to handle out-of-pocket costs, for example, or buying long-term care insurance. But data published as part of a recent study of longevity and health shows why those seemingly morbid calculations are essential. According to the Global Burden of Disease Study 2010 (GBD 2010), a major data-gathering project led by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington, the average American can expect to spend a little over 10 years of his or her life in less-than-good health, with much of that time concentrated in the retirement years.
The GBD 2010 project, which is funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, first announced some of its findings last December, and additional information has been trickling out as researchers continue to sift the data. The findings have offered a mixed bag where U.S. health outcomes are concerned. Between 1990 and 2010, for example, the average American gained three years of life expectancy, reaching 78.2. But the project estimates that only 67.9 years of today's hypothetical American life would be spent in good health. (By each measure, the U.S. finishes 12th in a field of 15 comparably wealthy nations.)
Those numbers don't mean that the average American spends 10.3 years as an invalid—the health-metrics institute explains that its measurements of unhealthy years incorporate everything from chronic but manageable diseases like epilepsy to a bad bout of the flu, with each weighted according to relative severity. But the health factors that contribute most to those sick years – including heart disease, musculoskeletal disorders and chronic respiratory disease –tend to take a greater toll on people over 55.
While women continue to live longer than men (with a life expectancy of 80.5 years in 2010, versus 75.9 for men), their life expectancy rose more slowly over the preceding 20 years, with women gaining only 2.7 years, while men gained 4.6. Researchers aren't sure what explains the disparity in growth rates: Ali Mokdad, the leader of GBD 2010, tells the National Geographic this month that women are less likely to get adequate treatment for high blood pressure and high cholesterol, which may be a factor. (The National Geographic's online story includes a map that shows differences in life expectancy between men and women by U.S. county.)
Moreover, by virtue of living longer, women on average have more unhealthy years than men – 11 years for women versus 9.7 for men. Actuarial concerns like this help explain why some long-term care insurers are now breaking with past practice and charging women more for coverage.