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66 Responses to "TESTIMONIALS…"
My screen needed replaced and the Harrisburg Help Desk did it for me for much less than anyone else could have, much cheaper too. They even took the time to clean it at no extra charge!
You are the Man! Thanks for taking care of all of my computer issues. Whenever I have a problem in the future, you'll be the one I call.
After my hard drive crashed over the weekend, I lost all hope that I'd ever again see my digital photos or novel I'd been working on for the past couple years. My neighborhood IT guy couldn't retrieve anything using his software, so I went to Craigslist and searched for "data recovery" services. This search led me to Harrisburg Help Desk. I e-mailed them on a Tuesday evening, and by Wednesday morning, Rob Golden had contacted me and set up a time that same day to come look at my computer. Three hours later, all my data had been recovered, backed up, I had a new hard drive and operating system, and all for hundreds of dollars less than Geek Squad quoted online! Simply amazing–I could not be more thrilled. Beyond his IT skills, Rob was fun to hang out with, and after spending hours in front of my TV, I think he's a newly converted "Sex & The City" fan. Thank you, Rob, for your fantastic service!!!
Harrisburg Help Desk has helped me and my business on several occasions. They have always been very timely, affordable, and professional. I would recommend HHD's services to anyone who is having technical difficulties with their computer.
Thank you Harrisburg Help Desk! You fixed all my computer issues, gave insight and better ideas for the tasks I was trying to accomplish, and all for a fantastic price. Rob is friendly, dependable, and a great guy to work with! You'll be my first call if any other problems arise in the future. I would recommend HHD to anyone!
Thank you Rob and Harrisburg Help Desk! I've looked for years for a local computer repairman that works on Apple computers. You were really there when I needed you. I will come to you from now on whenever I have a computer issue. I will be recommending all my family and friends to you as well.
Thanks again!
Thank you Rob for helping us with all of our computer needs. It is indeed a blessing to have someone like you
that we can call. I have recommended you to all of my friends and family, because i have been blessed and want others to be blessed as well. Thank you and may the lord continue to bless you.
Harrisburg Help Desk, Rob Golden, is my HERO! I bought my refurbished iMac from Rob and it's amazing! It has so many programs on that I'm still trying to figure out. In all my "figuring" I really messed things up just in time for my Deadline at the magazine I write for!! It was a Sunday night, but Rob still came to my rescue! He had me up and running in no time, with a smile on his face and mine I'm extremely grateful that I found a good, hard working honest computer guy in the Harrisburg Area. Thanks Rob for everything you do!
Thanks Rob for everything. You showed me a lot on neat and cool things on the computer. Thanks and God bless.
Rob is the man when it comes to working on cpu's Mac or Windows he is very professional and friendly. Be sure to contact him for your needs if want a professional job done for a reasonable price in a timely manner. Professional Sound Recording Studio supports Harrisburg Help Desk.
Rob Golden…The name fits perfectly, he is "Golden" when it comes to taking care of computer issues, large or small…The Music Man knows how important reputation is, and we only support those who handle business in a proffesional manner. Rob is our guy, and Harrisburg Help Desk has the OFFICIAL STAMP!!!
If you are having a computer problem, you had better call Rob. He knows his business when it comes to solving your computer dilemma. He is friendly, professional, and the price for his service is exceptionally reasonable.
I certainly will use his help again if necessary in the future.
Thank you Rob G! Appriciate your hard work!
Thank you Rob. You fixed in minutes what I could not in 2 weeks. I would gladly refer any of my friends to you.
I had Rob at my house in the middle of the flood of 2011. He was very professional and reasonably priced. He shared some helpful tips with me that weren't related to the computer problem. He was professional, courteous and friendly. I will definitely use his expertise again since my husband and I are technically challenged individuals and will certainly have another blip.
Thanks for your help, Rob.
My computer stopped working the day after I got engaged. It had all my wedding files on it (that I created way before I had any idea I was about to get engaged). I took it to the apple store the following day and they told me I would lose everything on my computer! And if I wanted to recover my information it could cost upwards of 1000 dollars. I couldn't live with that. I took my computer to the harrisburg help desk and It was fixed in no time. I have my computer back now with all my information on it! I couldn't be happier!
Thanks ROB!!!
Harrisburg Help Desk is my only solution for my computer challenges. I love the fast response and the great service. Harrisburg Help Desk is the only computer repair and consulting company for me and my business.
I emailed HHD on Wednesday night around 11 a.m….my computer was done, hard drive messed up. He got back to me by 12 a.m. Thursday. Picked up my computer at 12:00 p.m. on thursday, had it back to me fixed by the evening. Geek Squad who??!! I recommend them to ANYONE!!
Rob is simply the best IT person in the area. He won't quit on a job until it is done and the customer is completely satisfied, and his rates are more than reasonable. This year, I have engaged his services three times, and have been completely satisfied each time–certainly not the case with an experience I had with the Geek squad a couple of years back. His response times to emergencies are exemplary, and I would never think about using any other repair person in the future.
Harrisburg Help Dest Mr Rob Golden is the best, he truely the best. HHD has the skill's for any computer's out there, they have fast and timely service, they are true professional's. I will past the word on about HHD…….I'am hook on them for life….Thank you Rob.
Heard about this computor genius from a relative. I had a serious glitch in getting back some important files. To the rescue came Rob the Golden, from HHD. He is the greatest. He stayed until the job was finished and showed me how to find my lost programs, He is truly the genius I heard about. and he in now on ' instant dial'. when my computer goes down, Forever my friend. His personality is the greatest in dealing with a senior citizen that wants to informed by computer and all it offers. Thanks again Rob.
I went to Rob's with my iMac computer for a Memory Upgrade and Computer Training on 3 different programs. In just two hours I feel like I am a computer genius!! Thanks Rob for showing me some tricks to the trade. After I get these mastered I'll definitely be coming back for more!!! If you need help with a program on Mac or PC, Rob is THE man!!!
Rob Golden provides wonderful personal service with an old-fashioned touch—he's fast, courteous and conscientious. Besides being very knowledgeable, he was a pleasure to deal with on a business basis, unlike in many realms of the tech world, where the customer is treated impersonally and unsympathetically. He went out of his way to help get me back in operation after some serious computer problems, to an extent far beyond what any corporate entity would have done. I recommend his services highly.
Rob has now worked on our Mac at his office and an hp desktop and laptop in our home. What a relief to find someone who I felt complete trust in who could come into my home and provide me with expert and professionl service. I would highly recommend Rob to anyone in need of technical assistance. Today, I not only have all working computers, but I made a new friend as well! Thanks Rob!
Rob was great! Came when I needed help to get my server back and explained so many things that I needed to know about my computers. I'm really pleased and so happy to have my computer back. Definitely he know what he's doing. Thanks, Rob–great friendly guy.
I just wanted to express note of thanks. I very much appreciated the distance traveled and the remarkable knowledge, expertise and resolution/remedies provided. I have limited knowledge of computers and software, and I'm thankful for your patience and professionalism Rob.
So glad there is a computer tech that fixes what needs fixed and doesn't over charge. Rob is the man!!! Makes sure you understand what he is doing and answers any questions with plan english. He also takes pride in his work and backs it up. Thanks a lot. You will hear from me for any future computer needs.
I love working with this company, they are always prompt with their service and always know ho to advise the customer
As usual Rob, you go over and above in your service and your knowledge is invaluable. Thanks again for doing a great job. You will always get my referral as the best IT tech around.
He is the best. I can believe how great the service is, at Harrisburg help desk. Fast and reliable, with fair prices. The Harrisburg help desk is great.
Harrisburg Help Desk solved my problems with my Dell laptop. I tried to figure out what was wrong myself, but I needed help. Rob is great to work with. Really knows his stuff inside out. Explained things to me in a way I could grasp. I will be calling him again soon. I have to learn more. Thanks Harrisburg Help Desk!
Some keys on my keyboard were broken and I needed to replace them! Harrisburghelpdesk helped me to find the right keyboard and completely replaced the keyboard for me! Harrisburghelpdesk has quick and trustworthy services at a good price for the economy of today. I know that whenever I have any other problems with my computer that I will be contacting Harrisburghelpdesk!
I about had it.. I fought with tech's from Netfirms to Godaddy and
nobody could solve the problem I had since MS stopped their
support of web hosting Front Page.. it was impossible to find some
one who knew what the hell they were talking about.. I thought that's
the end of my hosting a web site..
..then I lucked out while checking out PC services on Craigs list
as I made contact with the Harrisburg Help Desk and a tech named
Rob Golden.. to make a long story short this guy was nothing short
of amazing.. he was on the phone with tech's from Netfirms and
Godaddy and I know Rob schooled them instead of the other way
around.. when all was said and done my site was up and running
all due to the expertise of one man..ROB..
Thanks Rob for restoring my faith there are still competent people
out there to help someone in need..
Thanks for all your help! Whenever I need assistance with my computers, the Harrisburg HelpDesk is always there. Great prices and great people. You have a customer for life!
I am not the most technological savvy individual, but Harrisburg HelpDesk saved the day and brought me into 2012…not only did I gain great service, but received it with a smiling face!!! Its nice to know that great customer service still exists….
My laptop died on me roughly ten months ago, and up until recently, I have been attempting, and failing miserably to bring it back to life. So after no success on my third hard drive, I finally decided to search for someone who actually knew what they were doing. In my web search, I happened upon The Harrisburg Help Desk website. With clear and insightful information on the site, and a price that will most likely always beat conventional retail outlets, it was a simple decision to make the call. The Harrisburg Help Desk had my laptop restored to its former glory in no time at all. To put it simply, The Harrisburg Help desk not only comes with an UNBEATABLE PRICE, but also the knowledge and experience to solve just about any problem you may have. If you have computer problems that you can't fix yourself, do yourself a favor and call THE HARRISBURG HELP DESK.
Rob did a fantastic job of getting my computer back working again. I'm very impressed with his work. Everybody else had given up on it; even Verizon, when I took it to them to fix the problems it had with viruses all over it, refusing to let me download anything. But Rob — the Lord of the Computer Service World — did the trick and healed it and got it back up running again, just as if nothing had ever been wrong with it in the first place!
I highly recommend Rob as number one to cure all your computer problems, because now I know for sure, from personal experience, that he can definitely do the job!
Ed Bolton
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Harrisburg Help Desk is the place to call! When I had computer issues, Rob came to the rescue! He was prompt, knowledgeable, and priced right! He got everything working again and in such a short time. He turned my catastrophe around. I will definitely call him for any future needs!
My computer ( MAC) was running so slow and then suddenly died. I called Harrisburg HelpDesk and got Rob Golden. He picked up my computer and fixed it the same day. He even returned it to me and made sure it was working properly for me and answered all my question and concerns. Rob is very professional and a nice guy as well. THANKS ROB!
My computer would not start. Rob came to my home within 24 hours and fixed the computer. He answered all my questions and gave great instructions and suggestions for improvements. He spent a great deal of time making sure my computer was better than before it broke down. He is great to work with and I would recommend him.
I had some problems with my laptop ans I called on Robbie Golden to assist me with it . He had me back up and running the next day . It is running great and better than it has in a long time . I will be definately calling upon him again and will also be recommending his great work to other people ! He knows his stuff !
Last week my computer was down and I called upon Robbie with my problem . I no time at all he repaired it and got it running better than it has in a long time . He really knows what he is doing with his work and I am gonna giving him all my business and recomending his great expertise to others !
Before I went to college I did not have any of the required programs I would need for my classes, thanks to Rob I will be able to keep up in my classes and get my work done. Thank you Harrisburg help desk.
great Service gave me just what i wanted great guy to work with:)
Great service and excellent repair work. Rob knows what he is doing and a great person to deal with. Would recommend Harrisburg help desk for anyone needing help with Mac or PC. Keep up the great job rob and good luck. Hope we can do business again.
What a great experience! I walked in as a stranger with a problem, and walked out sporting a new friendship with my problem solved……much more than I ever expected. Rob's computer expertise and his honesty and integrity are most impressive. He went above and beyond to help me find a solution to my computer (and pocketbook) issues. I would not hesitate to send anyone to Harrisburg Helpdesk for assistance. Thanks Rob…you restored my faith in humanity!
I was having a problem with my new(used) computer that I couldn't get on the internet and download anything. I'm sort of technically challenged, so I called my friend. He referred me to Rob Golden of Harrisburg Help Desk. The problem was far more involved than I thought. Good thing Rob knows what he's doing; he got me back in business and actually improved my computer. Thanks.
WOW…what can I say….Rob, thank you, thank you….I am a very satisfied customer…I was on the verge of buying a new computer when I decided to contact Rob….I had seen the web ads earlier this year when my computer was, I thought, about to die on me, but I continued to fight the need to replace the ole gal….earlier this week (12-12-2012), she started to give me problems again…I called Rob Friday morning and he came today
(12-15-2012)….very knowledgeable….answered all my questions…..explained everything he was doing…he went above and beyond to help me….Rob, you are now my "computer guy"…or should I say Golden Guy!!….
Bridget Anne (BadButterfly)
One of our systems was down and the Harrisburg Help Desk came to the rescue! We were dead in the water, but Rob came in and saved the day. He set us up and got us up and running. From now on when we have problems with any of our systems… we definitely be calling the Harrisburg Help Desk! Great prices and great people!
Rob did a great job of backing up my hard drives. Very professional and friendly. Affordable prices also!!!
The Harrisburg Help Desk is the best! When it comes to computers, they really know their stuff! I will be a customer for life! When I thought my laptop was DOA, they brought it back to life… they were also very affordable.
The next time I have a computer problem, I will definitely call the Harrisburg Help Desk!
Thank you, Rob, for the quick efficient service and for speeding up my computer. You are THE man to call for any computer needs! Thanks again.
I am a hobby musician on a limited budget, and rely on my computer to be stable and fast to be able to keep up with the demands of running high-end DAW software, and those demands are steep. After a recent computer crash on an older "gaming" system, I found myself scrambling to come up with the hundreds of dollars needed to repair and upgrade my system, only to find out that for a low, flat rate I could have my PC cleaned, repaired, and upgraded, to allow for a fresh start for this struggling (ahem, broke) artist! I would recommend Harrisburg Help Desk to anyone for all their computer maintenance and repair needs be the home, work, or play. Rob's rapid-response service, attention to detail, and knowledge of what is important in this fast-paced world of high-tech nightmares is a lifesaver, and I can't see going to anyone else in the area for computer service. Thanks hbg help desk, you rock!
My computer got a virus and I dealt with it for a few months. But as time went on, it was a tojan that would then wind up embedding itself into my entire computer. My laptop is only two years old and I sure didn't want to buy another one. But I also didn't want to get racked with high costs by a geek type squad. Harrisburg Help Desk promised to fix my computer for $99. They even came to my home. Professional service and within two hours I was back up and running. Somehow my hard drive crashed and it cost me an additional $49, but that was already advertised on HHD website, so I was fine with it. I defintely give a positive recommendation and I am sure my family and friends with be using this service in the Future.
The Harrisburg Help Desk was very calming for me. When I called them, I was at my wits end. They made me more knowledgeable about some of the tasks I was trying to perform. They helped me with my computer problems and their prices were very reasonable. Rob was GREAT!
Rob is the only one this business will call when there is a problem with our computers. Not only he is great at what he does, but all for a great price. I love the fact he calls to check up on his work to make sure everything is still working up to par. We have and will continue to use his services, and give his number to anyone who needs computer services!! Thank you Rob your the best.
Once again, the Harrisburg Help Desk has come through for us! The Music Man at Kline Village will NEVER go anywhere else for computer sales or service! These guys are the best… Give them a call, today!
After reading many of the testimonials regarding Rob Golden and Harrisburg HelpDesk, I can state that he is a special person who is very knowledgeable, friendly and courteous, and does great work. He answers all our questions, and makes sure that we are satisfied with his work. He has come back to our home to make sure that everything is working properly. His fees are very reasonable, and he makes sure that his customers are satisfied. W recommend very highly that Rob is the person to call for fixing your computer. Thanks very much Rob…
Jr & Tootsie (Dr.Phil) Wright
Rob is fabulous! His knowledge base is amazing, as is his turnaround time. He helped my business set up office networking, printing and scanning. He also saved me over $600. Because he was able to upgrade and fix our existing computer, we did not have to go out and buy a new one!! He is an excellent outsourced IT Department for small businesses. I recommend him highly!
Wasn't sure what I was going to do with my laptop that was corrupt but I knew I needed to get it repaired for I was behind on work and that was the only computer that had the program I needed downloaded on it. Found Rob who felt optimistic about my issue. From the time I called him to the time I dropped off my laptop and picked it back up — fixed and ready to go — was less than 4 hours. I was totally impressed with his time frame and knowledge and will program him into my phone since unfortunately computers are unreliable but Rob is totally reliable and I know I will need his services again! Thanks for getting me up and running. I am an extremely grateful and very happy customer! Highly recommend!!!!
Great service, friendly people, always on time, I would HIGHLY recommend them to everyone!
I completely cracked the screen of my beautiful but 6-year old macbook one morning. Everything I read online said it would cost upwards of $600-700 to fix it, so I thought hope was lost and I'd end up having to buy another whole laptop, which I do not at all have the money for. The same day, I happened to be parked outside of a store with a sign that said "We Fix Computers". I hurried in just hoping for best, and Rob Golden gave me an incredible deal on a new screen for my computer, as well as hooked me up with more memory space so it works twice as fast!
I am so impressed with how quickly he worked and got it back to me the next day. Something I thought I wouldn't be able to get fixed for months suddenly was fixed within 24hours, and at a very reasonable price. Mind=blown. I can't be thankful enough!!! Besides this guy is very friendly and also hilarious! 5 stars.
My experience with Rob was awesome. He's reasonable in rates, responsive to needs, and an ethical, pleasant person to work with. What more could you ask for in a service provider? I highly recommend these folks, and will be happy to do business with him again in the future.


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Modified Mustangs & FordsFeatured Vehicles
2009 Ford Mustang Giugiaro of Italdesign Concept - A New Beginning
Car Show Success Heads West As The La Auto Show Gets
Other features of the concept car include: a dramatic instrument panel that sweeps the width of the car; circular gauges that project from behind the steering wheel; dark brown horsehide-covered headrests with horse logo accents; and seat cushions and backrests elaborately upholstered in dark brown mottled horse hides. These were likely the most controversial aspect of the Giugiaro Mustang, with some viewers for and against the use of hides. A single curved glass panel that bridges the windshield and rear window, serves as the concept's roof. Produced by Solutia of Detroit, the panel uses a special construction that filters out 100 percent of UVA rays while providing panoramic views. The concept's dramatic doors are hinged at the base of the upright A-pillar and open vertically at the touch of a button. The tail lights are three separate elements as found on the 1964 Mustang - but reinterpreted into a more dramatic arrow shape that links to the louver panels that replace the rear side windows. The unique 20-inch rims are fitted with 275/40 tires on the front and larger 315/35 tires on the rear.
As those tires suggest, the Mustang by Giugiaro is more than just a tribute to Mustang design. It also is an exclamation of the car's heritage of performance. Cisco Codina, Ford group vice president, North America Marketing, Sales and Service said, of the car, "It's very exciting to have ItalDesign let their imagination run free with Mustang. The car is truly gorgeous and it remains very American."
Ford Racing improved on the standard 300-horsepower V8 engine from the production Mustang GT by adding an intercooled, twin-screw supercharger for the Giugiaro concept. Additional improvements include fuel injectors from the Ford GT and a unique engine calibration. Engine air intake is increased with a larger 95 mm mass air meter and a conical air filter. Exhaust performance was enhanced with new Ford Racing mufflers and an X-pipe. The powertrain upgrades deliver an estimated 500 horsepower, driven by 11 psi of boost from the Ford Racing supercharger. A high-efficiency Ford Racing aluminum radiator provides increased cooling capability to accompany the extra 200 horsepower provided under hood. Under the car, the FR500C-inspired chassis tuning is accomplished with a tailored Ford Racing Handling Pack. This package added new Dynamic-tuned dampers, lowering springs and anti-sway bars. The changes give the car a lower stance while sharpening handling response. The concept car rides approximately 1.5 inches lower than the production Mustang GT.
As future Mustang competitors prepare their cars for production in 2009 or so, the Giugiaro Mustang serves notice that Ford is not sitting content on their current or past Ponycar success. Certainly there were many other concept cars revealed during the LA Auto Show, but absolutely none were talked about as much in the general press as this car. Without a doubt, two guys from Italy stole the show - this time with a North American car.
The Auto Show circuit then moved to Detroit for the North American International Auto Show in early January - check out our coverage from that show in this very issue, the MM Staff hit every corner to bring you all the goods and gossip.

subset: commoncrawl


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Fan uncovers previous owner of Kurt Cobain's Fender Jaguar
Cliff Richard and Everly Brothers guitarist likely to be key to the mystery...
Kurt Cobain's famous 1965 Jaguar is shrouded in mystery. It was bought through an advert in the LA Recycler in 1991, and had already undergone heavy modification, including an extra volume pot, three-way pickup switch and dual humbuckers.
The seller was thought to have been a professional musician, due to the fact that the guitar came in a tour-ready Anvil flight case, however the previous owner's identity has remained lost, until now.
Posting on the Telecaster Discussion Page forum, a user by the name of 'Blazer' seems to have revealed the owner to be Martin Jenner, guitarist for Cliff Richard and The Everly Brothers.
Blazer stumbled on the discovery after spotting a familiar-looking Jaguar on a documentary, and also posted a live Cliff Richard performance from 1980. The guitar can be seen quite clearly at 29:27 to have the famously unusual third volume pot, three-way toggle switch and humbuckers.
The Jag in question
There are a few differences, though. Kurt's guitar featured a neck with 'dot' inlays, plus a Strat-style headstock and black chrome Gotoh bridge, however given that this video was a full decade before he bought the guitar, there's every chance that the modifications were made after it was shot.
Of course, this doesn't mean that Cobain actually purchased the guitar from Jenner, there could have been another owner in-between. However, Nirvana bassist, Krist Novoselic tweeted about the guitar, adding that "…it makes sense that it's the same axe".
So, could it be that Cliff's guitarist had a hand in creating some of the most commonly applied guitar mods in alternative rock? If not it's certainly a big coincidence!
Full Fender Kurt Cobain Jaguar NOS review
Fender Kurt Cobain Jaguar NOS
22nd Jul 2014 | 11:01
MusicRadar Rating5 / 5 stars
Ultimately, the Kurt Cobain Jaguar remains one of the greatest signature models of modern times, and will work for a range of styles - with or without the dents.


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Luxury House Design – Water Tower
Zecc architects has developed a fully functional residence from an old abandoned water tower. The water tower dates back to 1930s and is located in Soest, it was originally designed by H.F. Mertens in 1931. Zecc were tasked with converting the 24meter structure into a luxury dwelling while still preserving the characteristics from the past.
According to the architects, the transformation processes was a challenging one.
"Many problems had to be overcome; letting more daylight in and strengthening the relationship with the back courtyard by inserting a three-level high window frame; maintaining the interior's industrial characteristics by working with materials like steel, concrete and glass; and in the tower, ensuring an effective, efficient layout for several small round rooms that lay one on top of the other, while preserving the tower's spaciousness, to name a few."
[ Via Environment Team]
Sustainable House Design by H Arquitectes
This green and sustainable house was designed by H Arquitectes in the rural areas of Catalunya Spain. It is built on a platform of natural rock, designed to be extremely easy to build. What's more, it makes use of dry building methods that save substantial amounts of water – something especially important in arid areas. This also means that the financial and temporal investment is minimal.
The inner layout of the house is based on a lineal sequence of rooms, which are all of different proportions and linked to the structure. Part of the beauty of the design is that the building can work either as an open-spaced layout if required, or alternatively as a closed one. The house's use of natural wood for the outer shell of the building seems to be a perfect match to its surroundings, blending in seamlessly with the natural environment in which it sits.
Photos via H Arquitectes
Casa Fez – Portugal
Casa Fez is a new development built by the well known Portuguese architect Álvaro Leite Siza Vieira. He is the the son of Álvaro Siza Vieira, probably Portugal's greatest and well known architect – winner of the 1992 Pritzker Prize and the 1988 Alvar Aalto Medal. The son, Álvaro Leite Siza Vieira, was born in 1962 and is a graduated from the Faculty of Architecture in Escola do Porto. He is most prominently known for his Casa Tolo in northern Portugal, and designed Casa Fez for his personal use
The house is characterised by an abundance of natural light, which interplays nicely with the use of wooden floors. The windows are also all unadorned, giving the project a clean aesthetic feeling which is not too dissimilar to a modern art museum or gallery. In some ways perhaps the project lacks a homely fee, perhaps it is something which is better admired from a distance rather than admired through use? What do you think?
[Pictures via]
House 60 / gh3
source: Archdaily
The Push Button House by Adam Kalkin is an innovative green den
Adam Kalkin designed the Push Button House that was first displayed at Art Basel Miami in 2005. It is a very innovative design that starts out as a shipping container and after the button is pushed, it transforms into a house. The motorized walls open up to reveal a functional house with elegant and stylish furniture. The mechanism includes hydraulic power to lift and lower the sides of the shipping container. Another good thing about the concept is that it uses recycled and recyclable materials. Take a look at the pictures of the house and I think you will agree that it looks super stylish and trendy. The Push Button House is priced between US $150,000 and $175,000.
source: GreenLaunches
Base Valley House, Japan, by Hiroshi Sambuichi
This beautiful family home, designed by Hiroshi Sambuichi, takes a leap to set a balance between nature and building. To accomplish this, Sambushi chose high-quality natural materials including Japanese cypress, chestnut wood, and crushed stone. He created a design that allows the flow of air to move throughout.


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The Ultimate Fighting Championship will go on a holiday break following Saturday night's event in Montreal. UFC 124 saw Georges St. Pierre totally dominate Josh Koscheck in the main event to retain his UFC welterweight championship.
Other results from the card:
Stefan Struve TKO'd Sean McCorkle at 3:55 of Round 1.
Mac Danzig KO'd Joe Stevenson at 1:54 of Round 1.
Thiago Alves def. John Howard by unanimous decision.
Dan Miller def. Joe Doerksen by split decision.
Jim Miller sub. (kneebar) Charles Oliveira at 1:59 of Round 1.
Mark Bocek sub. (triangle) Dustin Hazelett at 2:33 of Round. 1.
Ricardo Almeida def. T.J. Grant by unanimous decision.
John Makdessi def. Pat Audinwood by unanimous decision.
Sean Pierson def. Matt Riddle by unanimous decision.
Rafael Natal vs Jesse Bongfeldt ended in a draw.
The next UFC event will be held on January 1, 2011 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. The card will be headlined by a lightweight title bout between UFC champion Frankie Edgar and the challenger Gray Maynard.
Following are 10 burning questions heading into the New Year's Day event.
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RODALE NEWS, EMMAUS, PA—Despite the fact that economists are saying that the recession is officially over, times still feel pretty tough, and few of us are ready to throw caution to the wind and start emptying our wallets on fancy clothes and gourmet food. A survey published in early 2009 even found that people were saving money during the recession by spending less on healthy food and more on, of all things, hotdogs! But you don't have to live on white bread and wieners to save money; eating healthy foods can be just as cost-efficient. Recent research, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that eating healthy foods on a budget is as easy as replacing some red meat with less-expensive whole grains and beans.
THE DETAILS: The authors used data collected from food frequency questionnaires submitted in 2002 as part of the long-running Nurse's Health Study. In total, they had information from 78,191 adults in their late 60s, and living with a spouse. A good portion of the adults were also defined as overweight, based on body mass index (BMI). The amount each person spent on food was estimated based on prices in the U.S. Department of Agriculture's food-cost database.
Each participant was ranked according to something called the Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI), which is basically a measure of how well each adhered to a diet of foods that have been associated with a lower risk of chronic diseases: fruits, vegetables, nuts, soy, beans, lean meats and fish, whole grains, alcohol, and healthy mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids. The range of index scores in this study was 30 for people with unhealthy diets to 60 for people with the healthiest diets. People with low AHEI scores—those with less-healthy diets—spent an average of $3.72 per day on food, while people with the healthiest scores spent $4.62 per day, a difference of 24 percent. But the authors found that food spending wasn't always dependent upon how healthy people's diets were. For instance, some people with the healthiest diets managed to spend as little as $3.48 per day, while others with the unhealthiest spent as much as $5.75.
They also estimated what people should spend their money on, if they want to get into that group of high-scoring healthy eaters. Spending more money on fruits and vegetables helps, raising the score by about 7 points. But every dollar spent on whole grains boosts the AHEI score by nearly 18 points, and every dollar spent on nuts and beans boosts the score by 19 points. Conversely, every dollar spent on red or processed meat lowers the score by 10 points.
WHAT IT MEANS: By simply redirecting your food dollars from meat to beans, you could save some serious cash and improve your diet at the same time. And, the authors write, the increases in AHEI score you could achieve by spending more on whole grains, nuts, and beans could lead to a 25 percent reduced risk in cardiovascular disease. By contrast, taking medications such as statins (those popular cholesterol-lowering drugs) lowers your risk by 20 to 27 percent, at a cost of $830 per year. Save money on food and on health care? What's not to like?
Filed Under: FOOD SHOPPING AND SUPERMARKETS, ORGANIC FOOD
Published on: October 5, 2010


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'Warehouse 13': Jack Kenny Q&A on Myka, Jinks and what's to come
Back in February, HCTV caught up with "Warehouse 13" executive producer Jack Kenny to learn about Steve Jinks, the new human-truth-detector character played by Aaron Ashmore, and the fate of the cursed-artifact-hunting team of Myka Bering (Joanne Kelly) and Pete Lattimer (Eddie McClintock), which appeared to be kaput after Myka quit.
(Click here for that.)
As viewers know, when season three began on Monday, July 11, Myka came back. Since then, Jinks is settling in, Pete sorted things out with his ex-wife (Jeri Ryan), Warehouse tech Claudia (Allison Scagliotti) has a new pal, and boss Artie (Saul Rubinek) is riding herd on them all.
This morning, HCTV got some fresh answers to some new questions from Kenny (including about the show being picked up for a fourth season last Friday), and hot off the email electrons, here they are (questions in bold):
Q: Have the fans forgiven you for letting them think Myka had left?
I didn't know they were mad at me! Seriously, though, I did keep saying to just trust us, that we wouldn't let you down ... so I hope they were never really concerned, and knew that we always have their best interests at heart. I mean, Indiana Jones is NOT going to die, no matter how dire the situation looks, right? But you gotta think he might, or why do it? So we'll always be trying to inject as much conflict and controversy as we can into our show, but the fans should always know we'll take care of them.
Q: Has the reaction to her return been what you expected?
Hard to gauge the reaction, per se, but I think everyone is thrilled to have Myka back, and I would've expected no less. Joanne brings such a wonderful energy to the team, and she and Eddie are having a phenomenal year! Their chemistry is better than ever, and I think it really, really shows on screen!
Q: What have the fans thought of the new guy?
From everything I've heard and read, people seem to LOVE Aaron Ashmore. Like the rest of our cast, he fits beautifully into the family, and brings his own unique energy to the team. It's very gratifying to read how both critics and audience welcomed him into our family. I think they'll all really be pulled into his story line for the season. It'll be quite surprising.
Q: How has Steve Jinks changed the dynamic?
I don't think he's "changed" it, as much as enhanced it. He's given Claudia a real friend. She always had a wonderful father-figure in Artie, and siblings in Pete and Myka, but Jinksy has really given her a compatriot. Someone she can relate to on an equal playing field; and I think it's really brought up her game in a terrific way.
Q: How did you learn about the renewal?
I got a wonderful call from Syfy last week, warning me that it was about to hit the Internet, and that I should try to get to the cast and let them know. It's become completely impossible to keep anything secret for more than a nanosecond anymore. That's particularly hard for a show like ours, when we wanna keep spoilers out of the press for as long as possible.
Q: What do you think most contributed to the success that earned that renewal?
Hard to say one thing. Every successful show is a total team effort. It starts in the writers' room and with Universal Cable Productions and Syfy, as we break out a season of stories as varied and different as we can think of.
Then it's up to our production and design team in Toronto, the never-ending stamina of our crew that shoots a movie every eight days, and the BRILLIANCE of our multi-talented cast, that bring these stories to life.
Then it's back up to Syfy to promote and sell the show as devotedly as they do. And then, of course, the fans. We could do all that anyway, and if people didn't watch, we'd get canceled. So finally, it rests in the hands of the fans -- who have been the most loyal I have ever seen. Thank you to the fans!!!
Q: What hints can you drop for the rest of the season?
Well, as I say, I hate to give spoilers, cuz it's all about the surprise elements. But I can say that we're gonna learn something pretty surprising about several of our characters over the next few episodes. As I've said, this season has been in great part about how your PAST influences your PRESENT. And that's true of what's in store for many of our characters.
AND it's about the Warehouse itself, as you'll see in our jaw-dropping finale! It's even a strong theme in our holiday episode -- which I am REALLY excited about, too! We work hard all year to (hopefully) give the fans a fun ride every summer -- and a nice lift at the holidays! Thanks for watching!!!


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- This is the sixth part in an ongoing series on electric vehicles, with a focus on Tesla Motors. See below for links to the rest of the series.
After announcing it's first-ever profit Sunday, Tesla Motors took a step toward revving up sales of its electric vehicle even further. The company announced a financing program that combines some of the best elements of buying and leasing and allows you to drive off the lot in a brand new Tesla Sedan with no down payment (sort of) and a monthly payment that's under what a competitive luxury vehicle (think Audi A8 or Mercedes S550) would lease for. Tesla even goes as far as saying the "Effective Monthly Cost" might be under $500. Realistically, the offer isn't quite that good, but it's going to broaden Tesla's appeal nevertheless.
First, the basics. With Wells Fargo and U.S. Bank, you'll now be able to finance a Tesla sedan for 63 months at just under 3% interest (assuming you're creditworthy) and make no down payment other than the federal tax credit ($7,500) and whatever state credits are available ($2,500 in California and Georgia, $6000 in Colorado, for example). While California hands you that credit at purchase, Uncle Sam makes you wait until you file your 1040 for the current tax year, so someone buying now might have to put the $7,500 down for a little more than a year.
Other than that, the financing looks like a traditional car loan. So a $79,900 Model S with the large battery will run you $959 a month. But Tesla's web calculator will then show you a bunch of additional savings you can generate owning an electric vehicle instead of a gas-powered one. Part of those savings are real: your fuel costs are lower. In my example, 12,000 miles annually, $4.40 a gallon for premium, that saves $200 a month. There's also a business tax deduction that Tesla values at $225/month — if you can take advantage.
Beyond that, though, it gets fuzzy. Tesla points out your time has worth and not stopping for gas or gaining access to carpool lanes could be worth hundreds of dollars per month to you. Well, maybe, if you're someone who bills by the hour or really puts a dollar value on your leisure time. But that kind of math sounds a bit ethereal and CEO Elon Musk probably knows this. In discussing the new plan, he explained a similar experience with SolarCity where they used to show people literally how much they'd save if they just financed a solar-power system for their house. They were still having a tough time signing up until SolarCity (which Musk is chairman of) took out the down payment and made the financing invisible to customers. Basically, the company now sells cheaper power than the power company — guaranteed — "just sign here." And sure enough, it worked. Musk says signups increased several times after the switch and the company recently completed a successful IPO.
While Musk doesn't necessarily see this plan as having quite the effect on Tesla sales, he made it clear he understands that financing this way opens up the car to far more prospective buyers. Beyond that, though, this plan is about removing fear concerning the future of EVs, and Teslas in particular. See, in addition to buying the car with nothing down, the financing has a special twist: After 36 months, you can return the car to Tesla, like on a lease, with a residual value that's guaranteed to be at least as much as a Mercedes S550, which Musk reports is 43% per the Automotive Lease Guide (the industry bible on the subject).
To further reassure customers, he's personally guaranteeing that value with his own wealth in the unlikely event the company itself can't make good on it. "I'm making myself personally liable," Musk said yesterday. Now, this is showmanship of the first order but it says something when the CEO is willing to try to address the segment of the market that is skeptical of his product's longevity. Musk's reputation as the real-life Tony Stark will click up another notch with his promising his own money. Still, the company fully expects the cars to be worth more than 43% of their original purchase price and Musk made clear if they are and you want to trade yours in, Tesla will pay market value for it. I can tell you from experience, that's sometimes hard to get a dealer to do with a traditional lease, so this is already an upgrade.
Obviously, many people will keep their vehicles beyond the 3 years and here, again, traditional leasing is less optimal versus this hybrid loan-lease. As with a loan, you can sell your Model S anytime and pay off your loan. The only wrinkle is that "put option" to sell the car at 36 months for a value you already know — and one that will let you cover your loan balance at the time. In short, like a lease, you'll be able to walk away with no money owed.
This announcement was teased by Musk on Twitter and was almost upstaged by the company's announcement Sunday of that first-ever quarterly profit. But Musk hinted on the conference call that there was more news coming soon from Tesla perhaps surrounding expansion of the company's Supercharger network, the Model X crossover, or the $30,000 sedan Musk also talked up on Twitter. (See Part 4 of my series linked below). On some level, a loan program might not seem too important, but it's all part of Tesla filling out the pieces of becoming a "real" car company, albeit a unique one. Between the all-electric approach, the controversial company-owned dealerships and now this somewhat unique loan-lease hybrid, Tesla is playing for keeps. That buzz you hear might be a Model S whizzing by. Or it might be folks talking about how Musk mentioned his company was trying to be the first successful automobile startup since Chrysler 90 years ago. And it's getting closer.
(This post originally included Tesla's mention of the loan term being 66 months. It was subsequently edited to reflect Tesla's update that the loan is actually for 63 months.)
Part 1: Are Tesla's Electric Cars 'Niche Vehicles?' Is Your Gas-Powered Car One Too?
Part 2: Tesla: Getting There Slowly or Already Arrived
Part 3: Tesla: On Rocket Launches, Electric Cars and Expectations
Part 4: Tesla's BMW 3-Series Fighter Just Might Be Your Next Car
Part 5: Exiting the Red Zone, Tesla Turns its First Profit and Looks to Go Long
Follow me on Twitter


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In trading on Wednesday, real estate shares were relative leaders, up on the day by about 5.5%. Leading the group were shares of ZipReality (ZIPR), up about 121.8% and shares of China Metro Rural Holdings (CNR) up about 4% on the day.
Also showing relative strength are hospital & medical practitioners shares, up on the day by about 2% as a group, led by HCA Holdings (HCA), trading higher by about 8.9% and Community Health Systems (CYH), trading higher by about 8.4% on Wednesday.


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» Spectrum -- College of Education
UTSA administrative staff honored after completing training series
(May 18, 2012) --- (May 18, 2012) -- UTSA administrative professionals who participated in the Administrative Support Toolbox training series offered by the UTSA HR Training and Development department attended an annual celebration April 25 with the theme, "Followed the Yellow Brick Road."
At the sixth annual event, 32 administrative staff were recognized who completed five courses representing more than 17 classroom training hours. The celebration coincided with National Administrative Professionals Day, which annually recognizes the vital contributions of administrative professionals throughout the United States.
The "Wizard of Oz"-themed celebration included Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion with special refreshments such as Ding Dong cupcakes (""ding dong the witch is dead"), rainbow fruit kabobs, magic-wand pretzels, a brains-heart-courage activity, a vocal performance by UTSA sophomores Aaron Osmer and Nick Schneider, along with music, movies, gifts, door prizes and more.
>> View a video from the event.
The program included certificates of achievement and special gifts for the 32 UTSA staff members who completed the training program. The graduates are listed with their respective departments:
Jan Barnett, VP for Research
Bridget Baumgardner, TRIO Program, P-20 Initiatives
Teri Bieterman, VP for Research
Daniela Borton, TRIO Program, P-20 Initiatives
Laura Brown, Department of Biology
Fiorenza Bruni, College of Sciences, Office of the Dean
Jo Anna Caballero, College of Business, Academic Advising
Sylvia Castillo, Institute for Economic Development
Marta De Luna, College of Sciences, Office of the Dean
Jennifer Decuir, Housing and Residence Life
Jeanette Francovich, Admissions
Beverly Franke, Department of Educational Psychology
Christina Gonzales, Center for Research and Training in the Sciences
Marina Gonzalez, Department of Psychology
Sylvia Hernandez, Department of Bicultural Bilingual Studies
Brenda Huitt, College of Education and Human Development
Cecilia Jaquez, Academy for Teacher Excellence
Teresa Maillard, Department of Counseling
Melonie Martinez, Institute of Texan Cultures, Office of the Director
Diana Mendoza, Office of the President
Tracy Merritt, Emergency Management, Police Department
Rachel Morrel, Business Auxiliary Services
Anna Paccione, Campus Recreation
Dasa Ortiz, UTSA Libraries, Office of the Dean
Ruth Reitmeyer, Center for Policy Studies
Mary Riedel, Academy for Teacher Excellence
Sylvia Ruiz, Facilities Operations and Maintenance
Colleen Snodgrass, Office of the Registrar
Suzanne Tanaka, Institute for Cyber Security
Venetta Williams, College of Architecture
Nancy Woodward, Environmental Health, Safety and Risk Management
Penny Wuebben, Intercollegiate Athletics
The Administrative Support Toolbox Series consists of five courses plus an orientation session that focus on key functional areas carried out by UTSA administrative staff. The courses provide a high-level overview of the functions, services and resources of each area. Subject matter experts present important and useful information to class participants. The five-course series runs on a continual six-month cycle with one class offered monthly. This allows administrative professionals to attend class when schedules permit and to complete the series according to their own timelines. Because class information is updated each time it is presented, graduates are encouraged to attend class as a refresher to stay up to date.
The Administrative Support Toolbox Series will present an orientation class May 22 and begin the five-course rotation in June.
- Orientation (SD 228), May 22
- Financial Processing (SD 239), June 27
- Communications and Marketing (SD 238), July 25
- Look for these class dates in the fall: Supervisory Skills (SD 241), Academic and Student Processing (SD 245) and Human Resources Processing (SD 240)
For more information and to register for classes, visit the UTSA MyTraining website or contact Training and Development at 210-458-4658.


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Ostiguy, Palmer back on track
Two of the region's top young drivers — Greg Palmer and Matt Ostiguy — are back on the road to success after overcoming injuries.
Six weeks after breaking his ankle, Palmer, 17, had driven his Porsche 944 to four straight wins in the NASA Series at Buttonwillow Raceway.
After two races at Auto Club Speedway on the final weekend of July, Palmer's next stop will be the NASA National Championships Sept. 8 on the Mid-Ohio road course at Lexington, Ohio.
Palmer last year won seven International Karting Federation Region 7 championships and the Cal State title in several classes.
And Ostiguy finished second and third in the Radical Unlimited Le Mans Prototype races at Mazda Raceway at Laguna Seca nine months after having surgery to repair seven bones in his broken wrist from a karting accident.
Driving for Jim Busby's team, the 21-year-old Ostiguy, who finished fourth in the 2009 Rotax Karting Nationals and has two Rotax Senior National titles on his résumé, will have four more races in the high-powered prototype this season.
The Radical Unlimited Le Mans Prototype is a new class using the LMP-2 style chassis powered by a 460-horsepower, 4.6-liter V-8 engine.
Ostiguy was ninth and 11th overall in the prototype races months after winning the seat during tests between four karters.
Bright future
Ostiguy is going into his senior year at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, where he is majoring in mechanical engineering with an eye on a career in racing — but not necessarily as a driver.
"I never want to lose the driving part of my life," Ostiguy said, "but my ultimate goal is to get a job in open-wheel racing as an engineer. I know my way around a tool box. If that leads to a career as a driver, that would be great.
"But I'm not concentrating just on the driving end."
Ostiguy said Cal Poly has courses that have allowed him to study tires, suspension, aerodynamics and engines.
Ostiguy's background in engineering helped him win the ride with Busby.
"When I first got in the car, it was totally new to me," Ostiguy said. "I didn't know how it would respond. By the end of the first practice runs, we were talking about taking the rear wing out to make it faster.
"Seeing how the cars responded to changes was a great part of driving it."
Muncey record falls
Dave Villwock last Sunday eclipsed Bill Muncey's 30-year-old record for career Unlimited Hydroplane victories by winning the ninth Gold Cup of his career in Detroit.
The win was the 63rd for the 57-year-old Villwock.
Muncey, a La Mesa resident, had 62 wins in his career when he was killed at the end of the 1981 season at Acapulco, Mexico. Chip Hanauer is third on the all-time list with 61 and Dean Chenoweth is a distant fourth with 25.
Villwock's first win was on Mission Bay in 1992. The Unlimited Hydroplanes return to San Diego this season on Sept. 16-18.


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|This high end 14K Gold Mens Pave Diamond Ring weighs approximately 16 grams and showcases 4.12 carats of top quality sparking round diamonds, each masterfully set in a lustrous gold frame. Featuring a luxurious design and a highly polished gold finish, this men's diamond ring is available in 14K white, yellow and rose gold.
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Super Bowl Preview; Doug Williams Reflects on '87 SB Glory
February 1, 2013 - 01:42 PM
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Today on NewsTalk, Tom Threlkeld of the DC Pro Sports Report joined us with a preview of Super Bowl XLVII -- the Baltimore Ravens against the San Francisco 49ers.
Plus, an interview with former Redskins Quarterback Doug Williams. He reflected on his Super Bowl XXII win and MVP honor.
Watch today's show below.
Monday at 10am: DC Councilman Tommy Wells
Read More:
Short URL: http://wj.la/TmrWwJ


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At this Park
355 acre Park managed by: Marin County Open Space DistrictOfficial Park Page
Las Gallinas Wildlife Ponds
by Ann Sieck
This very accessible wetland restoration project offers great bird and wildlife watching. You can take a 4+ mile hike on the levee maintenance road (closed to cars) or, in just a few hundred feet, see lots of geese, white pelicans, egrets, ducks and other waterbirds. Otters are reported, but have so far eluded me. My […]
Get Involved:Become a trailblazer, Review this Park, Log Wildlife Sightings, and Submit Photos.


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Saint Anne's Square
Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK. The heart of Northern Ireland's capital city, in its historic core, a designated Conservation Area
General. The Project is located in the heart of the province's capital city, in its historic core, a designated Conservation Area. The development is mixed-use comprising a new public square surrounded at ground floor level by cafes, restaurants and hotel bar/restaurant/front-of-house. The new buildings defining the piazza also include, on the upper floors, offices and apartments, a gymnasium and hotel bedrooms. A new multi-storey car park also forms part of the overall project..
Construction on the Project began November 2007 and was completed in January 2010, with an arts centre element to be completed by Autumn 2011. Programme: 24 months construction period (excluding the arts centre). Cost (excluding retail and office fit-outs and arts centre) £50m Sterling.
Background. The traditional urban fabric of the City underwent extensive erosion for a period of circa 30 years due in large part to civil conflict which saw one of the largest population shifts in Western Europe since the Second World War - from the inner urban core to the suburbs, surrounding satellite settlements and beyond. The recent onset of political stability has highlighted a considerable regeneration need and the City Centre site in question (cleared of buildings in the 1970's for use as a surface car park) was earmarked, by the Government department tasked with urban renewal as central to the future of the City's historic core, especially in terms of the its tourist and arts offers.
Site Masterplan. The Project designer was tasked firstly with developing a masterplan for the site as a whole to accommodate: firstly, a mixed-use scheme of restaurants/ offices/ residential units/ hotel and multi-storey car park (which covers most of the site) and secondly an arts centre which will be delivered by the Government department responsible for the developments of the arts (cf. Figure 1 under "Illustratiions" below. The whole masterplan was designed around the creation of a new public piazza to align symmetrically with the major axis of the adjacent Cathedral, the main set-piece building in the area..The Project. The Project, defines four sides of a brand new urban square. This square provides a new focus or heart for the quarter. It is a much-needed urban space in what was originally a Victorian warehouse quarter containing no planned squares. Linkages to the piazza are important and the existing network of streets immediately surrounding the development site all converge on the new piazza via the development of three new linking streets/lanes. The piazza is surrounded by commercial frontage at ground level and the space has been kept largely unobstructed to accommodate street theatre activity - including cultural events such as what is now a very popular annual street festival. A new piece of public art has been designed to terminate the axial view into the square from the Cathedral.
Addressing Context. The architectural language of the greater part of the Project was based closely on the existing visio-structural language of the surrounding Victorian building stock which dominates and defines the character of the area. This approach also complies with the Conservation Area design guidelines – i.e. that all new additions or interventions must add to or strengthen the existing and distinctive urban character of a place. The historic buildings in the area are all load-bearing in nature and share the same general palette of materials (hand-made clay brickwork, Portland stone, painted timber and slate). The common visio-structural language is characterized in all of these buildings by the overt expression of the specific structural abilities of the traditional materials of which they consist – e.g. windows have a vertical emphasis due to limited spanning ability of stone and brick voussoired lintels, maximizing the admission of daylight by extending window height rather than width, etc. Similarly, the building elevations of which The Project consists all attempt to reinforce the existing character of their unique setting by adopting for their finishes the existing palette of materials of the area, and by ensuring that these materials, when applied to the design of the facades, acted in accordance with their natural structural and constructional characteristics. In this manner, the architectural traditions typical of the area have been respected and continued, and a seamless addition to the area has been created.
Wider Masterplan. The Project was envisaged as a piece in a much larger masterplan which could in the future realize a whole series of new urban spaces surrounding the Cathedral – see Figure 6 Context Plan and Masterplan Vision under "Illustratiions" below.
Response to Charter Principles
Key Design Concept: To produce a major mixed-use urban block on an under-used site within an existing area of townscape character, 'healing' the torn and lost traditional urban fabric of the area, whilst defining a new urban space for the City.
Charter Principle: The Block, the Street and the Building: "1. A primary task of all urban architecture and landscape design is the physical definition of streets and public spaces as places of shared use". !
The Project creates, out of an unattractive surface car park, a new strongly rectilinear public space, connected to the existing urban network by new, clearly-defined streets. The new square and its linking streets are finished in high quality granite paving setts and are used by pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles servicing the restaurants, cafes and new arts centre which surround the new public space. No element of the Project acts as building-as-object set in undefined, free-flowing space – rather every element acts to define external spaces.
The Project advances the Charter principles through the successful execution of the scheme (excepting the arts centre element which is currently under construction), showing the public, developers and policy- makers a real example of how the new urbanism approach can enrich the urban experience for all.
Charter Principle: The Block, the Street and the Building: "2. Individual architectural projects should be seamlessly linked to their surroundings. This issue transcends style."
The Project re-establishes street-lines at the edges of the development site which were lost due to a 1970's urban clearance programme, thus reuniting the entire site with the remaining existing urban fabric.
Both without and within the development site, the Project acts as an extension and gathering of the existing pedestrian flow patterns in the area and, with this, an extension of the existing continuous ground floor active frontages in the area. See Figure 2. This 'live' edge treatment consists of glazed restaurant/café frontages, entrance points to residential units, hotel front-of-house (bar seating, hotel restaurant andconference rooms), own-door commercial units and arts centre entrance/exhibition areas.
The transcendence of style is illustrated by the façade treatments of the buildings surrounding the new space – new traditional and modernist designs co-exist side by side.
Charter Principle: The Block, the Street and the Building: "3. The revitalization of urban places depends on safety and security. The design of streets and buildings should reinforce safe environments, but not at the expense of accessibility and openness."
Since the completion of the new square, the Project has been praised by the local community, in particular by the local arts community. After the first year, the organizer of the city's largest annual street festival declared the new public space to be 'the best public space in the City for street festival and arts events'. This was due in large part, he explained, by the fact that the new space has been designed to be uncluttered and therefore flexible and also, because it is enclosed and, with pedestrian priority designation, it is safe for families to come to and relax and partake in activities. In addition, the new space is privately managed with discreet 24hr security provision. Private management ensures that events organizers receive fast responses re. specific requirements such as access to lighting and power and maintenance and repair issues.
Charter Principle: The Block, the Street and the Building: "4. In the contemporary metropolis, development must adequately accommodate automobiles. It should do so in ways that respect the pedestrian and the form of public space."
The Project includes a multi-storey car park housing 500 spaces. (Care and attention was taken to ensure that the ground floor interface of this element with the street consisted of continuous active frontage – in this case in the form of commercial unit glazed frontages, with the parking levels housed above). The car park helped to remove surface spaces and circulating traffic (searching for parking spaces) from the surrounding streets, thus making the area safer and more pedestrian-friendly. A pedestrian link from the new multi-storey car park directly into the new square ensured the capture of parkers' footfall, contributing to the animation and commercial activity of the space.
Charter Principle: The Block, the Street and the Building: "5. Streets and squares should be safe, comfortable, and interesting to the pedestrian. Properly configured, they encourage walking and enable neighbors to know each other and protect their communities."
As well as maximizing active frontage at ground floor level, the Project sought to locate as much living accommodation as possible to overlook the new public space and surrounding streets in the interests of security and engendering a feeling of safety. Surrounding the new square and along the streets, office space and a 15,000sqft gym were sited at first flloor level, and residential units and hotel bedroom windows on all other levels. Quality paving finishes and good street-lighting have been incorporated to encourage pedestrians.
Variety is achieved through the diverse mix of uses, as well as the mix of architectural compositions and styles. Interest is also added by the axial orientation of the new space with the existing symmetrical Cathedral, and in particular by the view from the square towards the Cathedral through the colonnaded opening.
The Building and Infrastructure: "Architectural design shall derive from local, time- honored building typologies. Building shells must be designed to be enduring parts of the public realm. Yet internal building configurations must be designed to be flexible and easily adaptable over the years".
The Project defines a new public space using a common traditional building type to be found in the area: namely, residential over retail, locally known as LOTS (Living over the Shop). This maximises active usage at street level, and provides a sustainable mixed-use arrangement whereby the residential element services the retail element. The building shells have been designed to be enduring parts of the public realm – the elevations have followed the design principles of Firmness, Commodity and Delight – Firmness reflected in the robust and solid detailing. Internal building configurations have been designed to be flexible by using steel frame construction enabling internal partitions to be flexibly located.
The Street, Block and Network "The pattern of blocks and streets shall be compact and designed in a well-connected network for easy, safe and secure walkability. This will reduce overall vehicular usage by decreasing travel time and trip length. Design shall strive to minimize material and utility infrastructure."
The Project has been based on a building density which is reflective of the block scale of the area and, due to the tight layout and convenient mix of uses, encourages the user to stay within the area. Great care has been taken to ensure that there is no SLOAP (Space Left Over After Planning) within the masterplanned site – all public space consists of either (i) efficient street space for connectivity, with a strong building line or (ii) a clearly designated and identifiable and memorable public space. All new buildings serve to define the public realm, with no gratuitous setbacks or unloved pockets.
Lessons learned: The importance of good public consultation – listening to local people. For The Project in question, interim public consultations were staged at outline, detailed and final design stages, with feedback logged, considered and acted upon by the design team. The local arts umbrella organization, the local civic trust and other organizations concerned with the bullt environment were consulted individually. This resulted in broad local support for the scheme, with letters of support (e.g. several from the civic trust) being sent to the planning department urging approval. One important suggestion from the community was that a 3-D scaled model was constructed. This was done and proved invaluable in helping local people understand the nature of the proposed spaces, uses, heights and massing. Computer cgi's also assisted the public to envisage the proposals. Lesson learned: early community involvement in design development proved vital in community 'ownership' of the scheme, providing valuable feedback, at key design stages, based on a detailed and intimate local knowledge of the area. The importance of active frontages. This may seem an obvious design consideration, but great effort is needed to ensure at each design stage that 'live' frontages onto the public realm are maximized. Actual linear measurement of active frontage being achieved was carried out at each design review stage of this Project and results were compared to those achieved for the previous stage. It is surprising how good frontage can reduce as other design issues are addressed, and discipline is essential to maintain what can be achieved in this area. Also, design reviews can act as an opportunity to fundamentally challenge the layout of building elements to arrive at a higher percentage of active street use.
Transect Zone(s): T6 core.
Status: 76-99% Built
Project or Plan's Scale: Neighborhood
Total built area (in sq. ft.):
Total project cost (in local currency): 5e+07
Retail area (in sq. ft.):
Office area (in sq. ft.):
Industrial area (in sq. ft.):
Number of hotel units:
Number of residential units (include live/work): 103
Parks & green space (in acres):
Project team designers: WDR & RT Taggart
Project team developers: N/A
Previous site status:
Starting/Ending date of construction/implementation: - 2011


text:
Bear Country Camping
View Single Post
Studly Adventurer
Joined: Oct 2008
Location: Seattle
Oddometer: 675
Originally Posted by
That's why the pistol is on the left shoulder strap. It wouldn't kill him....but, it's better than the stick! Bear spray would be better and I carry it on the bike, just haven't found the right size to carry on the shoulder strap...yet.
Aside from the ethical issue of wounding an animal you intend to leave in the bush, there's the practical issue of have you deterred him, or just really pissed him off? And if not you, is there someone else coming along that you've just set a trap for? Hmmm.[/QUOTE]
I hear you. The pistol as far as animals go is more for the noise than anything. Only as a last result for an animal, I'd rather have the spray, but like I said I haven't found the size I'm looking for yet. The pistol is more for the 2 legged varmints. If I'm seriously wary of where I'm going to be on the bike, I carry the horn and the spray, but I also carry a pistol grip 12 guage with slugs. I hope I never have to use it.. Horn, spray and then 12guage. I have a very healthy respect for bears. So far just noise has been enough.
I get some really funny looks on the trail with the pistol....I can only imagine what the reaction would be to the 12 guage. I'd probably come back to a Sheriff at the truck.
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text: No recent wiki edits to this page. Overview California Fire and Life is an insurance company. Headed by Curtis Benson, it also employs war veteran Jack Kelso. Seemingly innocent, the company is revealed to be in cahoots with an insurance scam. The scam, which involves many high officials, plans to burn matchstick houses down and pocket the insurance money. The houses are part of the Suburban Redevelopment Fund to build homes for ex-G.I.s.. Said fund is financed by illegal army surplus morphine and the houses are being built by Elysian Fields who will make sure that the houses are burned. The California Fire & Life hold the insurance papers to the houses and each time that a house is burned, the money goes to Elysian who splits it between members of the scam, including Benson. The plot is stopped by Jack Kelso and Cole Phelps.


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Tomer Peretz is a 30 year old Israeli artist who lives in L.A for the past eight years. His main occupation is painting, but he also designs spaces and furniture. His latest exhibition, "UNBREAKABLE," expresses the way Peretz sees the Israeli- Arab conflict as a former IDF combat officer in a way never seen before.
"Painting has always been my passion, ever since I can remember myself. As a child and teenager, I loved to paint on walls and tables at school, especially where it was forbidden or illegal…," Tomer says in a long-distance interview for Israelife. "In my exhibition, I am not ashamed or afraid to talk about politics and show my personal point of view- it is all a part of the project."
But even outside of "UNBREAKABLE," Peretz enjoys dealing with provocative themes and reveal and expose the forbidden and the hidden side of things. "I am influenced mostly by David La Chapelle, Andy Warhol and Banksy. Most of my work is specially made for private people, some of them are well-known. I am currently working on several projects of such. In addition, I am always searching for fellow artists who wish to cooperate and breakthrough. Dear Israelife readers, thank you very much for taking time to read about my work. Always live life with passion."
The "UNBREAKABLE" exhibition will soon return to L.A. For more information, visit http://www.tomerperetz.com and http://www.theunbreakableproject.com
"Andy's Moto." Oil on Canvas, In Peretz's Studio.
"Moments of Happiness." Oil on Canvas. 2011 Collection.
"Funeral." Acrylic on Canvas. 2010 Collection.
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text:
Ghost chairs? Amazing. Ghost stools? Maybe even better. I'm having a serious visual love affair with the red and rose, and I love that they're available in three different heights.
I have these in my kitchen. I love them!
09-12-12 » 11:09 am »
I wasn't a huge fan of the ghost chairs, but these I like.
09-17-12 » 9:24 pm »


text:
Badminton fever runs deep in Thousand Oaks
Thwack. Screech. Thwack. Screech.
It's a Friday night in Thousand Oaks, and the sounds of badminton rackets slamming into birdies and sneakers sliding to abrupt stops on polished hardwood fill the Sycamore Canyon Elementary School gymnasium.
"Hey, Ping, you going to play or going to talk?" Creighton Van Horn chides Chang-Ping Hsiao as they prepare to play doubles against opposing teams.
Dead birdies, their feathers broken or ruffled beyond use, stack up quickly as the men square off in grueling rounds with Arjay Cuenca and Young Heo.
Badminton might conjure images of leisurely backyard games, but for some members of the Thousand Oaks Badminton Club, the sport can be downright hard-core.
Fierce badminton? It exists, in countries all around the world.
The sport has roots that extend back 2,000 years. It's has been called the second-most popular sport in the world by some.
It was even at the heart of a scandal at the Olympic Games in London. Four pairs of women's doubles teams were bounced from competition for trying to lose their matches during the qualifying rounds. A loss would have meant a better position in the knockout round.
Here, there are no such worries — players say it's a thorough workout that relies on speed, reflexes and, quite literally, thinking on one's feet. Some members play five times a week, making the circuit through Thousand Oaks, Agoura Hills and Camarillo, where courts are available.
"This is a brutal sport," said Stacey Stapleton, a marathon runner who's played for two years. "Tennis is about how strong you are, while badminton is about how fast you are."
"This is a very, very good cardio game," Dao Minh Doan, of Thousand Oaks, said between sets. "For me, it's a lot more of an addiction."
It's a passion stemming from Doan's childhood in Saigon, now known as Ho Chi Minh City, in Vietnam. But it took 30 years in the United States for the architect to find a place to play.
He finally hooked up with the Thousand Oaks Badminton Club, founded by Howie Yu.
Yu, a UCLA graduate who grew up in Beijing, founded the club in 2003 not long after he started working at Amgen. After he learned the closest badminton court was 25 miles away, Yu asked the manager at the Thousand Oaks Community Center about playing there.
The club has grown since then from seven members to more than 160, with 70 active members.
The club now holds an annual tournament, sponsored by Tisa Sport; hosts a one-day badminton clinic at La Reina High School; and is gathering rackets and birdies to donate to area schools to encourage badminton play.
As the ranks of local players have grown, the Conejo Recreation and Park District has made more courts available for players.
There now is gym time available to badminton players six days a week in Thousand Oaks.
"It's totally open to the public," said Karen Lindsey, recreation and community services administrator for the park district. "It really is a family-friendly sport where a lot of kids pick it up fairly quickly and you can have all ages play together."
Yu, 40, grew up lobbing birdies with a bamboo racket over a net strung between two trees. He now teaches children and adults through the park district. While at UCLA, he helped train inexperienced players for the badminton team.
"In this area, we don't have a lot of entertainment, so it's easy to start a club," Yu said, adding the attraction is "part for sports, part for recreation, part for cultural exchange."
More than 40 people turned out for a recent Friday night badminton gathering. Among them were players who moved here from China, Korea, India, the Philippines and Russia. Their skill level ranged from top notch to beginner. Other club players had learned the sport as children in Indonesia, Japan and Malaysia.
Yu said that to make sure new people have others to play with, they must sign up for a court, and experienced players are encouraged to play with newbies or wait longer for a court.
Ritu Rao, 29, of Thousand Oaks, started taking classes last December. Rao played as a child in India. Her husband, Vijay Villavan, got her back into the sport and they now play several times a week.
"I've improved a lot since I've taken the classes," Rao said, adding later: "I don't go the gym, so it's a good workout for me."
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Isabelle Malouf was so into science she wore it to prom. The gown that she made with organza and sequins had a bubble-type skirt that resembled a bacteriophage. A dress and a virus, it was part of the Daring Night Attire – or DNA – collection she created for a high school design class. "It was fun taking something like that and making it pretty," said Malouf, a University of Mary Washington senior. "A lot of molecular biology stuff is gorgeous." These days, rather than fashion, she channels her passion for science into zebrafish. Through them, she's studying an herbicide that's been linked to cancer. Her research, along with her hair color – she changes it weekly –make Malouf a standout on campus. And, as a face in UMW's new branded photos, she hopes to make science seem more accessible, especially for women. "Girls aren't expected to be good at science," said Malouf, a biology major with a chemistry minor. Growing up in Boston, she learned to expect the unexpected, … [Read more...]
The Color of Science
Research Rocks
Faculty and students at the University of Mary Washington are breaking ground, literally, at historically significant geological sites. This past July, Associate Professor of Geology Neil Tibert and Professor of Geology Jodie Hayob ventured with students to the Atlantic Canadian province of Nova Scotia for data collection and study on two different research projects. Tibert's work focuses on sedimentary rocks that contain microfossils providing insight into the evolution of coastal and lake ecosystems of eastern North America, while Hayob is studying volcanic rocks that formed when the Atlantic Ocean was rifting open. "The world changed significantly at this time," Tibert said. Tibert has roots in Nova Scotia dating back to childhood. He completed undergraduate and graduate programs at Dalhousie University in Halifax, in pursuit of research that two of his students are now tracking two decades later. Senior geology and classics major and Italian international student … [Read more...]
In Search of Turtles
An uncommon turtle discovery has sparked detective work between a University of Mary Washington professor and his students that will help shed light on the species in the Fredericksburg region. More than two years ago, Professor of Biology Werner Wieland asked students in one of his classes to bring in a local animal. Much to Wieland's surprise, one student brought in a species of turtle – a yellow-bellied slider – that is not known to occur in the Fredericksburg area. The find brought up questions for Wieland— was this turtle an isolated case or is there a bigger population established? With the help of seniors Yoshi Takeda and Bryan Finch, Wieland has spent the last two summers finding out. Wieland's project is one of dozens funded through UMW's Summer Science Institute, a 10-week undergraduate research program started in 1999. The students and professors will present their work at an all-day symposium on Wednesday, July 24. This summer, Wieland and his students … [Read more...]
Chemistry Connections
When Assistant Professor of Chemistry Nicole Crowder attends national conferences, her peers often mistake her University of Mary Washington students for master's or Ph.D. students. "They are shocked at the caliber of our undergraduate students," Crowder said. Senior Karmel James and junior Eric Johnson, chemistry majors and seasoned conference presenters, are two such students. Both James and Johnson are working with Crowder this semester through UMW's undergraduate research program. Their projects aim to reduce carbon dioxide through manipulating various substances. Johnson is exploring "click chemistry," while James is using a different method. "It's about taking something that is viewed as a waste gas and turning it into something useful," Crowder said. Research like Johnson and James' can have large potential implications, from turning carbon dioxide into alternate fuel sources to finding ways to remove the gas from the atmosphere. Both students will present … [Read more...]
Culturing Independent Inquiry
In the tissue culture lab in the University of Mary Washington's Jepson Hall, Chloe Fusselman donned a white lab coat, put on gloves and carefully picked up a beaker of liquid. She was practicing her sterile lab techniques with her adviser, Professor of Biology Deborah O'Dell, since the methods are critical to her research project this semester. Fusselman and fellow senior biology major Kara Arbogast are both researching the chemical bisphenol A, known as BPA, in separate projects. Both students received undergraduate research grants from UMW for their work. Fusselman's project looks at the effect of BPA, a chemical found in many everyday household products, on healthy prostate cells. BPA, O'Dell explained, mimics the hormone estrogen and is frequently linked to breast cancer. "In the literature, there are some references that BPA could be linked to prostate cancer, too," O'Dell said. Research like Fusselman's will help scientists find out. As Fusselman developed her … [Read more...]
Uncovering the Past
Growing up in the Republic of Georgia, Ana Tkabladze was surrounded by remnants and relics of the ancient world. She dreamed of someday learning about the sites and making her own discoveries. Now a junior at the University of Mary Washington, Tkabladze, a classics major with a concentration in classical archeology, is already leaving her mark. This summer, she spent three weeks on the Spanish island of Menorca and in Portugal as part of a team excavating and analyzing thousand-year-old artifacts. "I'm basically helping real archeologists find out about that era," she said. "That'll go in history later which is pretty exciting." Tkabladze is one of several UMW students who received an undergraduate research grant for the summer, a time when many students study abroad, intern or work on research. In fact, two to three students in the classics, philosophy and religion department go on excavations each year, either through undergraduate research grants like Tkabladze or as … [Read more...]
Rock Star 101
If UMW offered a Rock Star 101 course, Mark Snyder would be the undisputed choice to teach it. The assistant professor of music and 1997 Mary Washington alum has performed with nearly 100 bands in the past 30 years, from rock to jazz to classical. Today, he plays in six different musical ventures, all while teaching classes in composition, electronic music and music theory. Through his music, Snyder gives his students the opportunity to experience the music business firsthand. In fact, three of his six current projects involve UMW student and alumni musicians. Nature Boy Explorer, an eclectic pop/rock group with a self-titled album, features Snyder on guitar and vocals, junior Becky Brown on the harp, junior Paige Naylor on the keyboards and 2012 graduate Joanna Smith on bass. Brown, Naylor and Smith all had a hand in the recording or production of the album, as well as Natasha Smoot, a 2011 graduate, who played accordion on the tracks. The band plays regionally, including … [Read more...]
Growing a New Generation of Educators
Grades aren't foremost on the mind of Laurie Abeel. The College of Education associate professor focuses more on the journey for her graduate-level students. "My approach in every single class deals with growth, not grades," said Abeel, who teaches gifted education courses. "I'm more concerned with 'do they understand what I'm trying to teach' and 'have they shown growth by the end of the course?'" Some of her students have gone on to use her strategies and methods in their own classrooms. Abeel credits much of her classroom philosophy to her involvement with Destination Imagination, known as DI, an international program focused on the creative process, critical thinking, leadership and team work. For almost the past decade, she has served as Virginia affiliate director of DI, volunteering to coordinate Virginia's programs and the state tournament. "It influences almost everything I do. All the skills we try to teach the kids [in DI], I use in my classes," she said, … [Read more...]
Around the World in Nine Apps
Nine applications in a year; thousands of downloads from all over the world; one dedicated UMW professor. Jennifer Polack-Wahl, professor of computer science, leads a small group of student researchers who in just 12 months is making a sizeable impact in elementary schools in the Commonwealth and across the nation. Polack-Wahl and the team, known as S.M.A.R.T. (Student Made Applications and Researching Technology), has created applications, or "apps," for iPads, iPhones and iTouches specifically geared toward addressing Virginia SOL math and literacy requirements for elementary school students. This semester, the group released an app that focuses on the history of ancient Egypt. Apps on money and life science are in the works. Polack-Wahl is collaborating with the Charlottesville, Va., school district, which is using the apps, to make sure the content and format are effective. And with Apple technologymaking its way into elementary school classrooms, the S.M.A.R.T. team is … [Read more...]
UMW Alumna's Research is "Eye-Opening" Experience
For Shirin Afsous, the problem of sex trafficking in the Middle East hits home. The 2012 graduate of the University of Mary Washington was born in Iran and grew up making occasional visits to the country with her family. When Afsous learned that human rights activist Leila Asadi wanted help with research on gender and sexuality issues, Afsous jumped at the opportunity. Asadi is visiting professor at UMW this semester, where she's continuing the research she began in the Middle East. Although hundreds of UMW students study abroad every year, undergraduate research like Afsous' work with Asadi provides a way for students to make global connections without ever leaving the Fredericksburg campus. In Iran and other Middle Eastern countries, Afsous explained, research has shown that, in some cases, girls as young as 12 years old are engaged in prostitution rings. Some girls may see it as their only way out of poverty. Asadi, herself, fled Iran after one of her friends was … [Read more...]


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Eminence Pear & Poppy Seed Microderm Polisher (All Skin Types) removes dead skin cells with
natural microdermabrasion action of poppy seeds and fine walnut. Eliminates
roughness and dryness to reveal a smooth and glwoing complexion. Suitable for
all skin types.
Directions: Mix polisher with an equal amount of either water, tea or
juice. Massage into skin for about two minutes. Remove with warm wash cloth
and rinse thoroughly. Use twice a week.
Eminence Pear & Poppy Seed Microderm Polisher Ingredients:
Pear Pulp, Apple Pulp, Pear Juice, Apple Juice, Poppy Seeds, FineWalnut (exfoliant),
Silica, Glycerine (plant derived), Guar Gum, Plantain Extract, Green Tea, Apricot
Kernel Oil, Alfalfa, Mica, Glycolic Acid, Biocomplex, (Vitamins A-C-E, Coenzyme
Q10, Alpha Lipoic Acid), Glycine Derivative.


text:
Our Gang in the Senate blows it
[UPDATE: To be fair, I must note that Brett M. Kavanaugh won Senate confirmation as an appeals court judge despite the initial Democratic filibuster. So Senator Bill Frist was no 'sucker' on that count as implied below. I apologize for that. I don't apologize, however, for stating that Mr. Frist's vote in favor of S.2611 was the end of his 2008 presidential hopes.]
Anybody else watch CSPAN last night between about 5:30 and 6:45 pm? I wish I would have thought to tape it because I think it marked a turning point in American political history, and a semi-amusing lesson in just how hapless our national Republican leadership continues to be.
If you didn't happen to see it, I'm sure you've already read about last night's near-criminal immigration legislation passed by the Senate with the assistance of Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist's vote.
The Senate yesterday easily approved an immigration bill that allows 10 million illegal aliens to become citizens, doubles the flow of legal immigration each year and will cost U.S. taxpayers an estimated $54 billion over the next 10 years.
I left the following comment on Senator Frist's blog. (Kudos to Senator Frist for having a blog. Technology in itself, however, is obviously not enough to make an individual "savvy.")
(Hmm, I don't know what made me think of this: below, Alfalfa and Elizabeth Taylor in "There's One Born Every Minute")
Anyway, here is my note to
(below the fold)
I respectfully suggest, sir, that you forget about 2008.
20,000 beds will hold at best a couple weeks' worth of apprehended illegal aliens, then it's catch and release time again. And if this monstrosity of a bill is signed into law by the president, the influx across our southern border will grow from a torrent to an out and out flood, as has happened in the past when the U.S. government granted amnesty to illegal immigrants.
3.000 National Guard troops will give support to the Border Patrol, sure: But the Border Patrol doesn't need SUPPORT. They only have a couple hundred "support" positions now that will be freed up when the Guard arrives. They need the flood of economic migrants to STOP and they need funding for a lot more Border Patrol agents.
And your section of fence, while needed, AIN'T UP YET, yet you're going to grant amnesty to illegal aliens NOW? Don't you see the problem there, sir? While the federal government goes into motion developing an RFP and talking with Lockheed Martin or Raytheon or Halliburton or whomever, the mass migration across our southern border will continue.
I suggest you skim some of our reports here.
On second thought, forget it. You must have all the information we do.
The political machinations required to make things happen in the Senate are, I know, beyond the imagination of most of us who observe.
But you'll have trouble, big trouble, trying to convince any of us we did not see what we saw last night. A) The Republican-led Senate votes for a horrible, expensive amnesty bill that pays lip service to border security; and B) The Senate Democrats IMMEDIATELY AFTERWARD launch a successful filibuster of President Bush's nominee to the DC Circuit Court of Appeals, Brett M. Kavanaugh.
In terms of political machinations, sir, I think that particular machination is known as "getting played."
I congratulate you for having a blog which invites critical comments such as this one. Also, I thank you for all of the good things you have done as Senate Majority Leader and as a physician.
Yesterday just happened to be not such a great day, in your career and in the current era of Republican governance - and era which because of yesterday's vote may well be entering its twilight phase.
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It appears they have taken down your comment, Joe.
Heh, yeah I noticed that. It's sort of surprising because they have left a lot of very critical comments up; maybe this struck too close to home...


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Perfect Bull Bar
Reviewed By Patrick E (NORTH SIOUX CITY, SD) Reviewed for a 2012 Toyota Tacoma —6/27/2015 4:33 AM
Arrived quickly, well packaged, and Chrome is flawless! Instructions are easy to read, and installation was a piece of cake ( about an hour and half). A great added value to my Tacoma that looks fantastic!! This was, in all ways, a perfect purchase.


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"I read strange stuff and I am not embarrassed to talk about it," says Glaser, who has just been appointed an American Association for the Advancement of Science fellow. Top three reads right now? He is reading Claudia Dreifus's
It's not all work: Brian Alexander's
To continue reading this article, subscribe to receive access to all of newscientist.com, including 20 years of archive content.


text:
The Food You Eat
By Jodie Parus, RD, LD
According to a study by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, the food we eat is the leading cause of illness and death in America. In 2010, 678,282 or 1 out of every 4 deaths were attributable to dietary risks including low fruit and vegetable intake, high sodium intake, and consumption of processed foods.
More deaths were directly related to dietary risks than to smoking, heart disease, cancer, and alcohol or drug use. This is alarming, but there is good news! We can take control of our health and drastically lower our risk of disease, disability, and pre-mature death by choosing wisely the types and amounts of foods that we eat.
The top 5 dietary risk factors, causing the most premature disability and death, were shown to be diets low in fruits, diets low in nuts and seeds, diets high in sodium, diets high in processed meat, and diets low in vegetables.
Breakfasts and snacks are a great place to add both fruits and nuts and seeds. Add berries and walnuts or almonds to oatmeal or cereal in the morning or enjoy a piece of fruit and 1 oz of nuts or seeds for a morning or afternoon snack.
Eliminating processed foods will dramatically lower sodium intake. Other helpful tips would be to buy fresh, frozen, or no added salt vegetables, eliminate canned and processed meats, and limit pre-made sauces. Additionally, use herbs and spices versus salt when cooking and sodium will be decreased, while maintaining great flavor.
Vegetables can easily be incorporated any time of the day. Toss them in an egg scramble or omelet in the morning, dip them in hummus for a snack, or have them as a side with lunch or dinner. A salad or sandwich loaded with a variety of vegetables provides multiple servings in one meal.
"The food you eat can be either the safest and most powerful form of medicine or the slowest form of poison." If we make sound choices for ourselves and our families, we can prevent illness, disease, and premature death.
Haven't tried our mouthwatering gourmet food, yet? CLICK HERE to get a FREE SAMPLE. To stay up to date with the latest articles and tips from Blue Ribbon Foods, please connect with us on Twitter and Facebook!