text:
My Debt Story: An Introduction
Published on - September 4th, 2009 (by April Dykman)
This post is from April Dykman, a new GRS Staff Writer. April was a typical GRS reader who used the things we talk about to improve her financial situation. Now that she'll be writing for the site, she wanted to start by sharing some background on her financial history.
In April 2008, I got married. My in-laws graciously gifted my husband, Luis, and me with an adventurous honeymoon in Mexico, complete with scuba diving, climbing Mayan pyramids, and navigating local markets.
Once we unpacked and settled into married life, we knew it was time to get our finances in order.
Photo by Amelia Tarbet.
We had some consumer debt, and then a few months before our wedding my husband's company was bought out. He was unemployed for two months. We didn't have an emergency fund, so money saved for the wedding (paid for mostly by my parents, but we wanted to cover some expenses) paid bills instead, and with balances from wedding vendors due, we relied on credit cards.
We were anxious to be debt-free, and we accomplished that, and more, within one year. This is our story of how we used some basic principles to accomplish our goals.
Getting real
The first step on the road to recovery was to gather balance statements for every credit account to our names. That number included:
- Credit cards ($11,200)
- Auto loan for my vehicle ($10,000)
- Motorcycle loan ($6,000)
Grand total: $27,200. Gulp.
I think for many people, this simple first step is scary. Maybe, like me, you piddle around, paying a little extra, cutting back here and there, and you avoid The Scary Number. Maybe you're terrified because you think you'll never manage to pay it off. Maybe you're worried that you'll have to change your lifestyle, and your friends will think you're a loser and you'll turn into a crazy cat lady and when you die no one will find your body for weeks. Whatever the fear, I suspect most people need the wake-up call. I know I did.
Getting a plan
I don't think it matters whether you pay off the lowest balance first for a psychological boost or pay off debt with the highest interest rate to satiate your logical side. What matters is having a plan. We decided to apply money toward the credit cards first, lowest to highest balance, then the vehicle loans.
I also started to track our spending in a spiral notebook.
Identify big gains
Next, we looked for ways to put big dents in our debt. The motorcycle loan was obvious. My husband rarely rode it because it made me a basket case, and it wasn't a viable work vehicle. He placed an ad on Craigslist and sold the bike, eliminating a $200 payment.
Then, in May, his truck was totaled. Thankfully, he was okay. We received an $8,000 settlement and contemplated not replacing the vehicle. More than a few people thought having only one car was asking for marital strife, but GRS readers encouraged us to give it a go. We put $4,000 toward the credit cards and saved $4,000 just in case the one-car scenario didn't work out. Today we still have one car and buying another is a low priority. It was one of the best decisions we've ever made.
By July 2008, we were down to $11,600 of debt and had $4,000 in savings.
Identify small gains
After a few months of tracking our pennies, I was able to get an idea of where our money went, and we made smaller changes such as:
- Cutting back on eating out at lunch.
- Downsizing my cell phone plan (I hardly use it).
- Reducing the grocery bill—expensive specialty foods could be cut for now.
In August 2008 we made the final credit card payment.
Using windfalls wisely
In September, I received a $500 bonus and $300 from freelance work. The $800 went toward the car loan. I remember thinking that soon windfalls would go toward saving for the future, not paying for the past.
Establish an emergency fund
Our $4,000 savings was a pseudo emergency fund, but it was really money earmarked for a second vehicle should our one-car plan prove to be a disaster. But life without a second car was going well, and we were anxious to wipe out the last of the debt. We used some of the money in savings to pay off the auto loan, leaving $1,200 to establish an emergency fund. We were officially debt-free.
We immediately reallocated debt-repayment money to our emergency fund. By March 2009, we had saved three months of expenses. We were then free to save for more exciting dreams, such as building our house, travel, and retirement. We opened a targeted account for each goal, and every month we see our savings grow as we pore over floor plans or dream up our next adventure.
Lessons learned
I'm proud of how far we've come, but looking back, there are two things I'd have done differently.
- Live (a little). I tend to go at something full-force. After a couple of months of miserly behavior (mostly on my part), we eased up and allotted money for frivolities, creating a bit of life balance in the budget.
- Start with the emergency fund. First, it mitigates future risk. Maybe a tire will blow out. Maybe the A/C will break down when it's 100 degrees outside. We were simply lucky that neither happened. Second, there's a psychological component. Dan and Chip Heath, authors of Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die, make a case for the whisker goal, "a target that [is] a hairsbreadth away from the status quo." While "stretch" goals (pay off $27,000 of debt) are great if you feel empowered, whisker goals (save $1000) are better if you feel overwhelmed. They can get you past the fear that holds you back.
It wasn't easy. While we had the benefit of a middle-class income and the luck to have no major setbacks, we also made big lifestyle changes. We were highly motivated from the day we calculated our total debt.
I think taking that first step was key for us, but what about you? If you've paid off debt or are currently doing so, what do you think are the most important actions you've taken to become debt-free?
J.D.'s note: EVERYONE wants to skip the emergency fund. I did too. We listen to people on the other side say "start with the emergency fund" and we think "meh — why do I need to?" Well, now that I'm on the other side, I wish I'd started with the emergency fund too!
Welcome, April. It's good to hear your inspiring story. You are a person of real determination — obvious you will succeed in whatever you put your mind to. Best of luck in the one-car scenario. We are hoping to do that, too, when I switch to a new job within walking distance of home.
Thank you for not giving a blanket endorsement for debt snowballing. Some people really do get more out of knowing their money is being put to good use with the highest interest debt first.
I have about $18,500 worth of debt and with a 26K a year income, discipline is vital. Thats the one trait I have learned even before paying down debt due to doing my workout routine among other things – but I feel it is the most important first thing to learn before achieving long term goals.
I 100% agree with you on being a 1 car household. Cars are the most expensive thing the average person buys that loses value. If you value your finances you should do everything you can to keep transportation costs to a minimum.
-Gen Y Investor
The emergency fund is huge. I haven't had one for long but the psychological boost has made me much more aware of where my money goes. I still have a lot of debt to pay off and may have to use a good chunk of my emergency fund for closing costs. If I do use it for closing costs, the income from renting out the spare bedroom should allow me to replace it in less than 3 months. Thanks for reinforcing a lesson I still need to make more concrete in my life.
Question on April's statement and J.D.'s note about the emergency fund: Why?
-Had an emergency and needed it?
-Think it's good to balance debt reduction with acquiring a savings habit?
-Just feels like I should have done it/wish I could say that I did it?
And are you saying you wish you had built an emergency fund of X months worth of expenses before/while you were paying off debt or just SOMETHING in savings for an emergency?
Great post. Look forward to reading many more by April
Thanks for sharing, April. I thought that the notes about skipping the emergency fund and going straight to the debt reduction were interesting.
Once on the radio, I heard Dave Ramsey get a question about that. He said that early on when he started financial counseling, the first step was the debt snowball. But with no credit cards and no savings, there was no safety net for anything. That's when he knew he had to revise his plan.
2 important thoughts:
1> This journey isn't just about math – it's about life. It's about behavior and people.
2> There's a reason Dave Ramsey refers to the Baby Steps as "a proven plan" (my emphasis). It helps to understand why they are what they are, but really, after developing and teaching this for 20+ yrs, he might just know what he's talking about.
cheers, and best wishes on your journey!
Great story. We had $7,000 on a car loan when we got married and paid it off in 6 months, then moved to a new state and bought a house 4 months later. We've had to put on a new roof and put in a new furnace, but we still have an emergency fund and we are working to get it much larger.
I work from home and my wife works in walking distance, but we still have two cars. One car usually just sits there and only has insurance for 7500 miles a year. The multi-car discount means it only costs us about $20 a month to keep it. I've been tempted to sell it, but we've been able to let a friend use it when they were in need and having it in case our other car isn't working makes me feel good.
Welcome, April!
I, too, tried to tackle debt first without an emergency fund and every little thing that came up, forced me deeper into debt — just because I didn't have a cash reserve to draw from.
Creating an emergency fund was the best thing I ever did. Once it was in place, I could easily cover the $200 car repair, or whatever else it was, without added to my credit card debt and without taking away from the amount I was paying against my debt.
Really loved the tone of this post. Looking forward to more from April. And well done for getting rid of your debt so efficiently! On the emergency fund front – I've been in the position of really needing mine.
Got stuck on the wrong side of the atlantic with a bankrupt airline, travel insurance (all three of them!) said "you're not covered for airline failure" and the only flights home were business class at $3800 per person one way! No other tickets for over a week, which would have cost us the difference to the economy tickets in accomodation/food etc, and we had to be back at work…
Was able to take a deep breath, think "the emergency fund will cover this" and buy the tickets (oh, but it hurt). And I did get it all back in the end, after 6 months of fighting. But without the fund, I would have been in a hole.
Lest you think "well, you must be fairly well off to be taking transatlantic flights", I'm a student, and I was at an academic conference, funded by scholarship money. Couldn't have afforded it by myself.
Love this post!
Hubby and I are in the process of paying off credit card debt, and to be honest, we COULD go a little faster. But, it's important to us to have an emergency fund built up as well, for several reasons:
A. Peace of mind for both of us. Otherwise we would both be worried and miserable.
B. In these economic times, you never know what will happen as far as jobs go. If one of us were to get downsized, we don't want to be completely crunched, especially while we're paying off debt.
C. Just this week our car (yes we only have one, we sold the other one) needed some unexpected repairs, to the tune of $600. If we hadn't had the emergency fund, that would have either gone on credit cards OR we just wouldn't have been able to make as big of a credit card payment. As it stands now, we barely felt it at all.
We hope to have the first of our credit cards paid off by March 2010, and from there we'll snowball our payments to everything else.
I'm 7 semi-monthly payments from being mortgage-free and the ability to not care what other people think about my minimalist lifestyle (I don't think I'm a minimalist; I just don't see the appeal of hitting the mall every lunch hour) or to tune them out when they tell me I'm not normal.
Meh. Who wants to be normal?
As for the emergency fund, it provides peace of mind. When I had to gut it to help out the parental units, I felt like I was living life on the edge–an edge where one side was made up of spiky rock formations–until I replenished it.
I think this is a great post. It's very inspiring to hear other people's tale of triumph when it comes to their finances. I'm debt free besides a mortgage. I've never had credit card debt so I feel good about that. However my sister is in a place where this kind of inspiring story may help her to realize she can turn things around, be debt free and live the best life she deserves! I will be passing this along to her. Thanks April!
I'm not sure I understand the logic of establishing an emergency fund before paying off credit card debt. Is it purely psychological?
Eg. 10k cc debt.
savings rate = 5k per year
emergency fund starts at zero.
So at the end of year 1 (simplified math) we'll either have a 5k emergency fund, and start paying off a 11k cc debt, or have 5.75k cc debt, and have no emergency fund. without the emergency fund, net worth is higher. if a 5k medical emergency comes along, what is wrong with then charging it to your cc? you still end up with a better position 10.75k cc debt, no EF, instead of 11k/0…
Howdy April – Thanks for sharing your debt story. Do you mind also sharing the other side of the equation, your income as well?
By sharing your income, you help give us perspective on how big $27,000 in debt really is. Otherwise, it's kind of just a number.
At Financial Samurai, we have a 1/10th rule where the vehicle purchase price we buy equals no more than 1/10th our yearly gross income. Hence, with $16,000 of auto loans, we come up with at least $160,000 in gross income for your two. Do you mind letting us know whether that's in the ball park?
I'll probably write about a guide is for max revolving credit card debt too at some point. However, I just don't understand credit card revolving debt b/c it is so expensive and as a result, I've never carried a balance.
Re: the emergency fund. We've been both paying down debt and accumulating an emergency fund at the same time. If we focused one vs the other I suppose we could do either faster, but I feel good about attacking both.
Can somebody explain why Ramsey advocates for doing one at a time? Or is it more just about making sure that you're giving yourself an emergency fund?
Great to hear your story.
And I agree with comment #2 – it's nice to see someone else that didn't do a blanket debt snowball.
I think that's the biggest issue I have with Ramsey. I understand that some people need the psychological motivation of paying off the smallest debt first, but not everyone. It's a much bigger motivator to me knowing that I'm paying it off faster, and with less interest, by tackling the high-interest rates first. (I've heard that called Debt Avalanche at one point?)
My husband and I are paying off debt and we initially skipped the emergency fund too. Finally, 2 months ago, we dicided we probably needed one, just in case…
Within 2 months we built a $ 1,700.00 emergency fund and sure enough… last week we had an emergency worht $ 1,100.00. I'm realy happy we decided just in time to start saving towards emergencies!
We'll be building up the fund straight away!
Oh wow… there are MULTIPLE new staff writers… I thought there was only going to be one.
I read Dave Ramsey's book and one thing that struck me was that when you have no emergency fund, every emergency is something that needs to be thought through and the money found.
He appreciated the fact that when he had an emergency fund, he didn't have to THINK about something. If he needed to pay a repairman $400, he merely wrote the check and didn't THINK about it.
I don't have an emergency fund (even the first baby one of $1000 that Dave recommends) and if something happened to my paid-off car, I'd be stressed out and frantically trying to find the fund somewhere.
My husband and I tackled both the emergency fund and debt at the same time. We're consumer debt free now and have an EF in place. It feels great! I highly recommend having a fund in place. Even a small one of $500 will help when a budget is tight and things come up because they always do and then what? Use a credit card again? No thanks!
@ Ann – congrats on being nearly mortgage free! We don't want to be normal either lol
Great post April
I think it is so important to tackle the emergency fund either first or jointly with the debt. We had a small emergency fund last year that we were building up before trying to seriously tackle our consumer debt- a good thing, too, because a few months after we started saving my husband got laid off and was out of work for 3 months. That event wiped out our small emergency savings and now that he has a job again we're starting from scratch, but I am so, so grateful I didn't use that money to pay off some of our debt because we would have been in a worse situation now.
I do think though the decision on how much to use for savings vs debt can take several factors into account, though- since my husband's layoff, I've switched jobs to a much more stable one and he got a great new job, so while we're still building our new emergency fund, we're also comfortable using some of our extra funds to pay down some debt at the same time because our employment situation is so much better than it was last year at our old jobs. Slower progress on both fronts, but it helps with peace of mind, at least
lx- I don't think it is about this growth vs. that reduction. It is about having a resource to pay for "emergencies" rather than putting those costs right back on top of the cc debt you are trying to eliminate. The E-fund provides a cushion that allows you to develop and stick with a debt elimination plan with specific goals and practices.
Luckily while we were paying off debt we didn't have any emergencies come up. Our cc bills were fairly small, most of our debt was school loans. We just now got the emergency fund up and running (new kid and new house so lots of opportunity for emergencies) and while it is an emergency fund and about half simple savings half index funds- it is also a long term savings fund for another house or the kid's college fund, etc.
For me, I've found the more savings I have the more I want to save and the easier it is because I really see that I am going somewhere and it is working. When I've had nothing, I would spend everything (who cares right?).
I'll respond directly to April's question: "If you've paid off debt or are currently doing so, what do you think are the most important actions you've taken to become debt-free?"
The BIGGEST step for me was to admit that I was in debt. Much like an alcoholic, the first (and biggest) step to recovery is admitting the truth.
I've known that I was in debt for a while, but not until April 2008 did I admit that debt was a problem and that I needed to fix it.
Once I stepped over that hurdle, I set up a quasi-budget (I track it, but I DON'T watch it like a hawk) and set up a debt reduction plan. Now, about 1.5 years later, I only have student loans and a mortgage. If all goes well, the student loans will be done in another 1.5 years.
The mortgage will obviously take longer, but with my payment schedule, I can pay down a 30-year mortgage in roughly 17 years.
April, I think you're right on the mark that even those of us engaged in aggressively paying down debt probably need a little bit of "play money" that we can spend on little frivolities without guilt. I allocate part of the money from my second job for this.
About the emergency fund: you guys, I listened to all of you. I started veeeeeeery slowly (I'm talking $10/mo, here) putting money away in a high-interest savings account, adding extra when I could, but focusing on paying down debt. And then, last month, when my car got hit while it was parked and I had to shell out my $500 deductible, *nothing bad happened.* I did not stress! I just wrote a check!
In summary: you are so right, and I am really, really, really glad I listened to y'all
"…what do you think are the most important actions you've taken to become debt-free?" My lowest point was $10,000 in student loan debt plus $700 in credit card debt (I had maxed out my credit card). My most important actions were:
1) Lived very frugally my senior year so I wouldn't have to take one of the loans in my financial aid package.
2) Lived with my parents (for free) while job hunting.
3) Stayed employed as much as possible–never quit one job without having another lined up.
4) Lived without a car for 4 years – for a while, every time I would get some money saved up I would have to spend it all on car repairs. Finally I decided I wanted to do more with my savings than just have a car. So I sold my car, paid off all my debt, and then paid cash for a used car in a reliable brand.
5) Had a housemate.
I paid off my five debts in order of interest rate—first my credit card debt, then my student loan with the highest interest rate, etc. (I got offers to consolidate all my student loans into one loan, but the new interest rate was always the highest of my four interest rates, so I never consolidated.) I started by paying $50 extra and kept making the same total payments toward debt as each thing was paid off. Any extra money and windfalls went into savings. I just had one pool of savings back then which I used for both fun and emergencies.
I probably shouldn't have paid off my lowest-rate student loans early because I could have earned more investing, but I did. I also wish I would have taken that extra loan student loan I rejected and invested it in a CD so I could have paid back that (or a higher-interest) loan right away and had money left over.
I went a couple of years without health insurance, working a bunch of part-time jobs. So it was scary times. I also never had a very good income back then; in fact, I still have an awfully mediocre income for someone of my education level and age, but I only have to work 40 hours a week and that makes me happy.
RB, I bet most people don't follow your 1/10 rule. Even now that I'm feeling pretty rich, I could only buy a $4,200 car under your scheme. I do expect to spend $3000 – $5000 for my next car, but I spend way less on cars than anyone else I know.
April's story is one that is very similar to my own. Coming off of a wedding and grad school, my household is full of worries and fears about money. I am trying to slowly work my way out of our funk and some of the steps that April took are one's that we are considering.
It's encouraging to hear how quickly April turned her finances around.
The Big Scary Number — Yup, I'm avoiding that for a bit… For me, it's the total amount of student loans that I have. Ugh. I know I can look it up now, but I think it's only going to make me more depressed since I'm still just adding to the pile at this point…
For those who wonder why an emergency fund is needed — what is your plan for when something unexpected arises? If it's to pay for the emergency with a credit card, keep in mind that you will then be paying high interest on that money — AND that banks are closing credit cards left and right these days. What if they close your credit card on October 1 and on October 3 your car breaks down? That kind of thing has happened. Money in the bank means you never have to go through that panic.
That's a terrific story April and very inspiring. I totally agree with you and Generation Y Investor on the one-car family thing. My husband and I also share one vehicle and when we need to go in different directions, one of use will use a bicycle (that one of us is usually me, but I love biking).
Keep up the great work!
The one thing that the hubby and I are doing differently than what Dave Ramsey advises is we're handling our debt snowball a little differently. Starting out, we had two credit cards with massive debt (each pushing 30k) plus my school loans (around 7k, but on a fixed payment plan), our car debt, and a couple of balances on furniture we had financed (interest-free for the next two years).
Instead of starting with the smaller furniture and school loans, we started with the lesser of the two credit cards. Because we both see the credit cards as being huge financial obstacles that we have to hurdle, with large minimum payments, we felt like we would be making more headway by paying one of them off first. It might be 6 one way and a half-dozen another, but for us, seeing the balance on that card going down is a HUGE motivator.
We're on track to get the credit card paid off in about 6-8 months, then we'll move those allocated funds over to tackle the furniture, car, and school debt before moving on to the last and biggest credit card.
I'm wondering what you think about the order of paying things off when one has a LOT of debt. Due to 2 bachelors and a Masters degree (between me and my wife), we have $90K in student loans, but no other debt (except the house). Would you suggest sticking with a small emergency fund until the entire thing is paid off? What about retirement investing? It doesnt seem prudent to stop investing for retirement for the next 10 years while I pay down debt.
I'm 27, w/ 10K in retirement accts, 75000 income (my wife doesnt work outside the home).
Theoretically, Dave Ramsey would tell me to stop investing, stop doing everything until its paid off, but that doesnt seem smart. What do you think?
Thanks April and welcome. Three cheers for the one-car family. We have only one car and I bike or use transit most of the time. For the rare times we need 2 cars I have a zipcar membership. Works great!
I'm debt free except for the mortgage and a ridiculously cheap student loan. I'm working on the emergency fund, but something always comes up and cleans it out. I have yet to build up to even one month's worth of expenses. It's frustrating, but still better than where I was, having to put everything on the credit card. Not having hubby on board doesn't help – at least we have separate accounts. I'm working on it.
I really like the emphasis on having a plan. We most closely identify with the Dave Ramsey one, but have deviated from it in few key ways.
1) We have a larger emergency fund than he advises. We don't feel comfortable with only $1K in the bank — we have a couple kids and live in a part of the country that's expensive to live in, so $1K can disappear pretty quickly. We selected $5K as our baseline, and this has worked out pretty well for us. We have had one emergency that required us to write a check for $1K. We also have family in areas of the country that would require a plane flight to get to should something occur, as well.
2) We already have a house. Bought during the top of the housing market. With a 80/15/5 loan. At least they are both at a decent 30 year fixed rate . We know it's not the "Ramsey approved" 15 year fixed / 20% down payment mortgage, but hindsight is 20/20. Selling the house would likely save us a couple of hundred a month, anyway — and even that's debatable since the mortgage interest deductible actually allows us quite a tax shelter. Plus the realtor would likely get paid $20K. And we can't sell it for what we paid for it. At least it's a nice house!
3) We bought term life insurance and disability insurance. We have two children and wanted to be sure they were well taken care of in case something bad happened to us. This takes away money from our debt payments, but we think it's worth having this set up. We also spent money to get a will and other documents written up to administer the money should something happen.
All that said, I think that talking about finances, putting together a monthly budget and working on shared goals is definitely something that strengthens a marriage. When you must talk about money once a month, it's very easy to introduce topics that might be confrontational or worrisome — and in many marriages, not talking about money leads to many, many problems.
Having a plan has let us endure my wife's recent layoff with far less drama than we would have been through a year ago. Since we have paid off a lot of debt and accustomed ourselves to a lifestyle lived below our means already, it's really not a big deal and we'll get through it.
It's also a sign of how far we've come in a year when I hear my co-workers talking about their money troubles, or the lifestyles they lead that are burning towards money troubles. I generally keep my mouth shut, knowing that we are building a foundation that will help us weather tough times as well as prosper in the good ones. Our house may not be as nice, our cars not so new, we may not have the latest electronic gadgets and we don't go to Disney every year. The thing is, I've realized that self-confidence and security are far more valuable than any gadget or trip.
We've found the Dave Ramsey podcast to be a good motivator for us, especially the "Debt Free Friday" ones. Hearing about how other people have worked the plan to become debt free is very inspirational for us. Also, the regular shows provide a lot of examples for people like us who come into working the plan in a way that's not exactly like the book explains.
Today is officially the first day of the rest of my financial life!
My husband and I were self employed for 10 years.
We sold our business just as the economy was tanking.
We have both worked our entire lives (we're 46)
And neither one of us could find employment for nearly two years.
Never in my wildest imagination would I have believed we would not only NOT have jobs, but good jobs. But it happened to us.
Well he started his new great job in June and I just received a very nice job offer today!! I am walking on clouds, even though we have debt.
I KNOW that we will eliminate it ASAP and build our savings and 401 back up.
I have a detailed plan, including life insurance, disability, etc.
I will never again be in the situation we just came out of. I have made specific plans to be sure that's the case.
My plan is to have an emergency fund of $25,000 within one year.
Oh, and once I start my job I am going to volunteer at the local job bank to help out others who are in such a predicament!
Congratulations, you guys really moved quickly and paid your debt off fast.
I like your method of having only one vehicle. I bet that more couples could get by on one vehicle than they think.
#35 Jason
I don't think that buying term/disability insurance and setting up a will are outside of Dave Ramsey's "baby steps" at all. In fact, he dedicates an entire session of Financial Peace University to how important it is to do both of these -especially when you have kids.
Congrats on your financial progress!
While agreeing that having an emergency fund is essential, when I first started tackling debt I was so terrible with money that the money wasn't safe if I could get at it. Until I reached the point where money could be left in an account, it was a matter of throwing any money at the debt in order to have the money 'gone'. I dealt with emergencies the same way I always did – with panic and credit – but I could see my debts steadily dwindling.
It took a long time and constant improvements to change the way I think about and deal with money, but I still remember when my money handling skills were so lacking that I had to work up to such common sense advice as 'have an emergency fund'.
Lovely wedding photo! My wedding is scheduled for October and we plan on having an outdoor wedding as well. Fingers are crossed for great weather!
JD – As the editor in chief, anyway you can get April to respond to our questions? It would be much more interesting, and dynamic this way. My main inquiry is her income level during the time they had 27K in debt and whether she worked on any ratios to manage her debt.
After all, in finance, it's all about the Debt / Equity ratio!
Taking the first step is the hardest..getting a plan, to me, is a bonus. I just dove right in, and actually, by the time I decided that I needed a plan, I was almost out of debt.
Good story though!
@33 Brent,
Student loans are something I struggle with also. Here's what I do, which may or may not work for you. I got this plan from a number of financial books, and from talks with my accountant and Bogleheads forum. I'd appreciate any feedback as well.
Since I assume you have no high interest debt (credit cards), try this order:
1. Start an emergency fund and gradually increase it 6 months. Others suggest more or less. You don't have to "stop" 401k contributions while you're doing this.
2. Contribute up to maximum employer match for 401k.
3. Max out Roth IRA.
Now determine your financial goals. What are your major purchases (house, business, vacation, retirement)? When will you need the money? For money you need in 2 years, keep in CDs or Money Market. For 3-7 years, use bonds. For 7+ years, use stocks (i.e. index funds).
At this point, determine your actual rate of return for each investment (your loans are negative investments).
If married filing jointly you can claim $2,500 of student loan interest for AGI under $145,000. Check both your 1098 forms for last year to see what you paid in interest. You likely get the whole deduction.
I assume stocks at 9% pre-tax, 7% post-tax. Bonds at 5% pre-tax, 4% post-tax.
Depending on your real student loan interest, that will fit in somewhere here:
3. Max out 401k.
4. Invest in taxable account.
With my highest student loan at a real rate of 3.5%, I make the minimum payments. I automate all of my investments, and if there's still money left over at the end of the month, or if I get a windfall, I'll put some extra towards the highest loan. Low interest or not, debt is an emotional burden.
There's a lot of other considerations too, so read some financial books and consider a fee-based financial planner before implementing your plan.
Good Luck.
Thanks for the wonderful story!
I think that crucial thing is that you and your husband agreed on doing the savings and establishing the emergency funds.
But what to do if you are the only one with such intention??? My wife is a shopaholic and does not care about debts. Every time I tried to do something about it we end up fighting and not speaking for a few days.
Has somebody resolved such situation?
the two most important actions i've taken have been to
1. keep separate bank accounts for different purposes (especially separating by debit card account from my account to which my salary comes)
2. track my expenses. this has made me concious about my spending.
@41- I don't really have the need to see how much she made- it is about the process to me.
My experience of debt is my brothers- but they are the kings. One makes a lot (46), the other makes hardly anything(57). Both struggle to pay the bills and borrow from our mom (79) when they have run out of money and have taxes to pay. The sisters (49,52,55) watch and made sure they are debt free. The example of what happens is what encourages us to stay debt free.
Mom encourages the debtors….
Three out of the four sister's children (30,26, 25, 25) also are debt free. One lives for his uncle's lifestyle- live for today and hope the creditors don't come too close!
It is interesting how the cycle continues.
#43 Joruva,
Thanks for the plan. So you're saying that you just put everything in order of interest rate/expected return and plug in money accordingly?
So you're just resigning yourself to paying on your student loans for 20 years? I'd like to make extra payments, but I hate the idea of decreasing my retirement investments.
I also have the monthly cash flow to consider. As all of my student loans come out of forbearance, monthly cashflow is going to get tight. I'd like to find a way to pay off some of the loans so that my monthly payment is less.
We worked a similar post marriage, merger of finances plan. We added up our debt which totaled $55,500 (half of which was Mr. Sam's MBA student loans) and faced the music.
We went with the Dave Ramsey debt snowball which worked for us as we got to pay off small debts quick, quick, quick. We tracked our finances using Quicken which helped us figure out where our money was going and helped us come up with a spending plan (our form of a budget) and we had the $55,500 paid off in just over a year.
We did start with a small emergency fund ($1,000) and we raided it twice during the debt snowball (once for A/C repair and once for car repair).
We now have a $20,000 e/r fund and we are working on increasing that fund.
In response to all the comments about Dave Ramsey's baby steps and modifications, I think having a plan and working that plan is most important. While we followed Ramsey's debt snowball plan, we continued to save for retirement at the same time. I think you have to look at your circumstances and figure out what is going to work best for you. For the baby emergency fund he often advises a larger baby e/r fund if you have children. And as to the snowball, Mr. Sam wanted to pay of highest interest first but I wanted to knock out a bunch of small debts first and since I was doing the financial work we went with the smallest to largest plan, but if it makes more sense to you to do it the other way, just do it.
Using half the insurance settlement on the truck to build an emergency fund was a great idea. Even if it does cause some strife, it isn't a permanent decision. At some point in the not to distant future, when your finances are stronger you can buy a second car, maybe a second hand one to avoid another debt.
Very inspiring post!
Brent (33, 45),
I basically agree with what Joruva wrote.
I think in your situation it's important to realize that you're on a good track and you're not going to make a wrong decision here. You're considering all the right things.
I would probably need to know more of your specific details to offer any real advice. The big factor is the details of your mortgage. Also, are you happy living in that house for the next 20 years or so (size, schools)? Will your wife maybe take on part or full time employment when the children are older? Do you want to try to save for your children's education, or would you rather eliminate all debt (including the mortgage, even) before they're in college, or both? Do you expect big increases in your income?
I understand if you don't want to share any of this. I like giving advice, but it's only as competent as the amount of information I have going into it. And you're doing fine without it.


text:
Sports events/concert tickets $49 http://www.vividseats.com/gift-center/
Shinola Chrono watch $675 http://www.shinola.com/shop/watches.html
Detroit Denim Jeans $250 http://detroitdenim.us/shop/
Detroit GT T-sht/hoodie $25-$49 http://www.detroitgt.com/gt_home.html
Sanders Gift Crate $89 http://www.sanderscandy.com/Deluxe-Gift-Crate-p/27276.htm
CARite Holiday Specials $49-$129 http://www.carite.com Saturday Special: Dudes Only: Tire rotation, Oil Change, Air Filter and New Wiper Blade set only $49.95. The whole kit and caboodle: Oil Change, Air Filter, Cabin Air Filter, Tire rotation, Wiper Blades and a can of BG 44K Fuel Induction only: $84.95
Slows BBQ gift card $50-$100 http://slowsbarbq.com/gift-card-order-form
Better Made "Party in a box" $14 http://www.bmchips.com/store/Specials/1/
Ballerini duffle bag $1295 www.zballerini.com
The craft beer club $24-$495 http://www.craftbeerclub.com
25 FOX Drive
Phone (781) 467-2525
Didn't find what you were looking for?
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2014 Fox Television Stations, Inc. and Worldnow. All Rights Reserved.
Privacy Policy | New Terms of Service What's new | Ad Choices

subset: commoncrawl


text:
We have a major recall to tell you about that goes back 20 years.
Schneider Electric is recalling 15 million of its surge protectors.
There have been 700 reports of the devices overheating and it some instances it caused fires.
The surge protectors were sold between January 1993 to December 2002 under the name APC Surge Arrest.
They were sold at Best Buy, Circuit City, CompUSA and other stores for anywhere from $13 to $50.
Follow @fox32news
35 Skyline DriveLake Mary, FL 32746
Phone: (407) 644-3535News Tips: (866) 55-FOX35


text:
Abilities by Family Mechanical Supercharge
1-8 of 8
Used By:
Anodized Robo Cub
Pet Battle: [17-18] Winterspring
Fluxfire Feline
Pet Battle: [1-2] Dun Morogh
Mechanical Chicken — [Mechanical Chicken]
Prerequisite Quest: Rescue OOX-09/HL! [35]
Zone: The Hinterlands
Prerequisite Quest: Rescue OOX-22/FE! [37]
Zone: Feralas
Prerequisite Quest: Rescue OOX-17/TN! [48]
Zone: Tanaris
Quest: An OOX of Your Own
Zone: Booty Bay
Personal World Destroyer — [Personal World Destroyer]
Profession: Engineering [475]
Taught By: Goblin Engineering Trainers
Pocket Reaver — [Tiny Fel Engine Key]
Drop: Void Reaver [??+]
Zone: Tempest Keep
Approximate Drop Rate: 1 in 13
Pet Battle: [1] Orgrimmar; [3-6] Azshara; [17-18] Winterspring
Sunreaver Micro-Sentry — [Sunreaver Micro-Sentry]
Drop: Haywire Sunreaver Construct [92]
Zone: Isle of Thunder
Approximate Drop Rate: 1 in 5
Tranquil Mechanical Yeti — [Tranquil Mechanical Yeti]
Profession: Engineering [250]
Drop: Blingtron Gift Package
Approximate Drop Rate: 1 in 5000
1-8 of 8


text:
NEW PALTZ, N.Y. (AP) - A Hudson Valley village will mark the tenth anniversary of a series of controversial gay weddings officiated by its mayor.
Former New Paltz Mayor Jason West officiated over the vows of 21 same-sex couples on Feb. 27, 2004 in front of a cheering crowd. The marriages were never recognized by the state and West was charged with misdemeanor counts.
But the high-profile ceremonies added to the growing national debate over gay marriage. New York legalized same-sex marriage in 2011.
There will be a screening of a documentary about the New Paltz weddings in the village on Thursday along with a panel discussion.
Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
KTTV FOX 111999 S. Bundy Dr.Los Angeles CA 90025Main: (310) 584-2000News Tips? (310) 584-2025


text:
Huntsville Police are looking for the men behind a home invasion along Brookline Drive.
The family was not injured during the robbery, but they were forced inside a bathroom by three armed men wearing bandanas over their faces.
The door at the home can barely close after the victims say three men forced their way inside and immediately ordered the family into a bathroom while they robbed the place.
Some neighbors said it is shocking, but others say it is not entirely unexpected, as they have been break-ins in the neighborhood.
One neighbor didn't want to be identified, but he said over the years this neighborhood has been riddled with crime.
One time, a homeowner turned the tables on a home invader when he grabbed his gun and fired shots as the suspect ran out.
This neighbor said they have a neighborhood watch group and he sees police patrol the area frequently because of past problems but knows there is always an opportunity.
It is unknown at this time what the three gunmen got away with.
If you have any information on this crime, call Huntsville Police.
Copyright 2013 WAFF. All rights reserved.
1414 North Memorial Parkway
Huntsville, AL 35801
WAFF Is a Proud Member
of the Raycom Family of Stations
FCC Public File
EEO Report
Closed Captioning


text:
'Baywatch': Where are they now?
Published On: Jun 12 2011 07:35:32 PM PDT Updated On: Aug 17 2014 11:00:00 PM PDT
With Sept. 22 marking 25 years since the 1989 premiere of "Baywatch," click on to see what your favorite TV lifeguards have been up to lately.
The views expressed are not those of this company or its affiliated companies. By posting your comments you agree to our Terms of Use.


text:
LifeEdited: Graham Hill's Tiny Apartment
Over two years ago we asked our readers to help pitch their ideas for Treehugger founder Graham Hill's new 420 square feet apartment. Earlier this year we gave a sneak peek at the design concept, and now the project has been completed! With tons of transforming spaces and multipurpose furniture, it's a great exercise in small space living.
Graham Hill's new apartment was designed via a competition through his company LifeEdited. A couple of goals were to be able to seat 12 people for dinner, and have space for guests to sleep and work. While the actual apartment is 420 square feet, Hill states that it provides the equivalent functional spaces of a 1100 square foot home. It has all kinds of great space saving features that will work in other people's homes — here are a few highlights:
• A murphy-style bed from amazing small-space furniture distributor, Resource Furniture. The cool thing about it is the shelf flips such that objects do not have to be removed when the bed is lowered.
• A sliding wall on tracks that can enclose the bedroom and create a second sleeping space with bunkbeds, a work zone, and lots of storage behind.
• Undercounter refrigerator and freezer drawer to save space and energy.
• Modular, portable induction cooktops that can be stored away when not in use.
• An expanding dining table from Resource Furniture that stows away within the kitchen island when not in use.
As Treehugger contributor, Lloyd Alter, states, "Most people have to make lots of compromises in comfort and quality to live in New York, and give up a lot of the things that people have in bigger homes, Graham has demonstrates that you don't have to give up a damn thing."
Read More: Visiting Graham Hill's Amazing LifeEdited Apartment at Treehugger
(Images: 1 & 7 - Lloyd Alter; All Others - Graham Hill/LifeEdited)
• Graham Hill's Ultra Green Renovation in NYC Needs Help
• Submit Your Design Ideas For Graham Hill's Apartment
• Green Home Renovations: The Most Helpful Resources
• Hidden Home Theater and Office Inside Ultra-Compact LifeEdited Apartment
18 Comments
That convertible furniture is pretty friggin' cool.
These small apartment mods are really awesome. But I wish you guys would provide the budget for projects like this. It can't be cheap, and I'd really like to know what something like this costs.
Also, it'd be great to know if they hired an architect or if they did something like this themselves. This particular project doesn't look very DIY, and it'd be great to know what kind of work went in to creating it.
What an awesome apartment. If only more Manhattan rentals were like that, then New Yorkers would feel a little less cramped!
@JMILLSPAYSBILLS -- I'm not sure if they list the total project budget, but a competition brought about the design, and an architecture firm was used to get it built. There's tons more info through the links list in the post, as well as this site about this history of the project.
Would love to know what the budget was for this project.
@Wallflowerpower: Check out the 'Domestic Transformer' apartment from Hong Kong. It's featured on AT just search for it. This one won't seem as unrealistic!
I agree it takes a bit of effort to "move" from one space to another, but think of it as cleaning before guests arrive. It's also a good way to completely break away from the living room when you decide to go to bed. And, I'm one who gets bored of my surroundings very quickly so I like that the entire teeny apartment can change to different things. I can always pass out on a couch if I'm too tired to knock down the bed. I really love this.
I love that dining table. What a great idea for lots of spaces, even bigger ones. How often do you really need a big table? In my house my big dining table mostly gathers dust and Stuff.
My problem with this concept (which is way cool overall) is that it only would work if you lived alone or if your partner was on exactly the same schedule as you. Not possible for one to stay up late reading while the other goes to bed, y'know. (And never in my roommate or relationship life was I on the exact same schedule as anybody!)
Meanwhile, I want that table! Especially if it is adjustable as to how many leaves you use at one time.
Interesting but too much work! I'm way too lazy to deal with the constant arranging.
@jmillspaysbills, according to the New York Times article about this apartment a couple of weeks ago, the reno cost $365,000 which included a $50k upcharge to the builders for an accelerated deadline. He bought the apartment on Sullivan St for $287k. so that means he's got over $650,000 in 420 sq ft.
He does regard this apt. as more of an experimental prototype and is looking for ways to get all the expanded functionality they achieved here in such a small footprint without the steep price. For example, the hardware for the moving wall alone cost $4850 and he recognizes they've got to come up with a substitute system that's more mass market-friendly.
I love the table from esource Furniture but it's sooo expensive at Resource Furniture. When you were planning, did you see any other tables like your that are less expensive?
I think the functioning built in wall design is essential to alimenting clutter. Storage and the ability to customize a space to fit your needs is great. I love the kitchen area so much. I also have a removable cook surface it, really works for someone who needs to free up counter space and if you don't cook that often who, wants to look a a stove all the time in a small space. The dinning table is amazing with it expansible design, just by adding a removable leaf. Same goes for the wall bed if, you use your live space as your work space who, wanted to look at a bed all the time. great space! thank you for inspiring!
Here is a link to several of the design ideas used in the space. Including the dining room table and bunk-bed.! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9nljmEUeLbY&feature=colike
I love it! I'd like to have something like that for my apartment, too. There are only two things I'm wondering about, what about privacy, if there are nor reals rooms (bunk beds, are kids involved?) And the cost? Doesn't look very DIY to me either.
so cool, glad he's experimenting with functionality in small spaces - good information to develop.
How cool! I saw a similar design from a Chinese designer for his tiny apartment in Hong Kong, I believe. Such a great use of space! I can see how it may get tedious to pull the bed up and down and move things around, but it beats wasting space!
My grandmother had a dining room table that operated just like this one. It served as a coffee table, but very easily converted to a very large dining room table when you lifted it up, turned it and pulled it open. This was back in the early 70's. I always thought I would get the same kind of table when I grew up and had my own apt., but I have never seen one like this again!
Wow, that is crazy! But yes, as proof of concept, and if you've got the money, what the hell, right?
I would love to see a company create modular elements like this. That would be awesome.


text:
Tuesday, 24 Jun 2014 08:14 PM
By Sean Piccoli
© 2014 Newsmax. All rights reserved.
Tuesday, 30 Sep 2014 13:19 PM
The new television show Madame Secretary, which is supposed to be based on the tenure of former Secretary of State Hil . . .
Tuesday, 30 Sep 2014 13:14 PM
Attorney Casey Mattox and Barth Bracy, executive director of Rhode Island Right to Life, appeared on America's Forum o . . .
Tuesday, 30 Sep 2014 13:02 PM
Former CIA analyst Fred Fleitz and former House Intelligence Committee Chairman Pete Hoekstra appeared on "America's For . . .
No liberal radio show has ever made it, because they are stupid. People love...
Long overdue, can't say I wish him well....
Just another example of the lawless obongo regime. Lois Lerner goes free.
Your perpetual state of socialist bliss is possible due to the
Ohhhhh but of course allow a man whose whole career has been hatred, race...
Newsmax, Moneynews, and Independent. American. are registered trademarks of Newsmax Media, Inc. Newsmax TV, NewsmaxWorld, NewsmaxHealth, are trademarks of Newsmax Media, Inc.


text:
Nocturnal News:
Nocturnal Site update: coming soon!
We have many new pictures as well as new knives and products to add. Until we get the website updated please follow us on Instagram @nocturnalknives, and our Facebook pages for daily updates, pictures, etc. Thank you - NK Crew
Nocturnal Tools
The Hooter 1 & 2 are on the way. We're currently taking orders for the first run.
Order and model info HERE
Order and model info HERE
Nocturnal online store news
The Nocturnal Online Store and Custom Request Noc Shop are now up and running. We have successfully taken all orders through the Store in the past 16 hours. The shop will be regularly updated with more pictures, options, and models as they are available. And again, if you would rather order the good ol' fashion way just email firstname.lastname@example.com or Contact Us. Thank you -NK Crew
Custom request noc shop added to store
If you want a custom grind, carbon fiber, or out of the ordinary G10 handle color now you can add any custom touch you like to you Nocturnal order in the Custom Request Noc Shop. Check it out.
**Big News**
We have been working with major G10 manufacturer Nitro Composites and we are now happy to introduce our very own G10 color proprietary to Nocturnal Knives; Nocturnal Tan. Nocturnal Tan will be replacing all of our OD Green G10 on all future orders (unless OD is specified on a custom request). We are currently getting good media together to show our customers this new and glorious color.
Knives For Those Who Go Bump In The Night
We build knives that work. Military, Law Enforcement, Mechanic, or EDC User, our knives will serve you well. Nocturnal Knives use only the finest materials available and are handmade in the U.S.A. We back our knives with a "don't ask, don't tell" warranty. If you manage to break it, we'll replace or repair it, no questions asked. If you break yourself trying to break one of our knives, we can't help you there.


text:
The business world is continuously evolving. The emergence of digital platforms to drive business management and revenue growth has made finding the right technologically advanced talent essential to competitiveness. The Monroe College Bachelor's Degree Program in Business Management believes academics should also adhere to this evolution. We have been adapting to business trends for nearly 80 years. In turn, we're preparing our students to become future business leaders and decision makers.
Monroe College Bachelor's Degree in Business Management students are taught by senior level business executives, presidents, and CEOs. They learn to apply critical thinking, problem-solving, and technological skills to real-world corporate situations. Students utilize faculty insights and instruction to drive business results for leading business and finance firms during semester internships. This level of real-world experience gives graduates a competitive edge in the job marketplace.
A Monroe College Bachelor's Degree in Business Management gets students one step closer to career success. It can also empower students to continue with their education and enroll in the Master's Degree Program. Career opportunities in business management include:
Project ManagerInvestment BankerMarketing Manager
Associate (A.A.S.) Degree Program in Business AdministrationBachelor (B.B.A.) Degree Program in Business ManagementMaster's (M.B.A.) Degree Program in Business AdministrationNews
Minor in FinanceMinor in EntrepreneurshipMinor in Human ResourcesMinor in Sports ManagementMinor in Entertainment & Media Management
Dean of Business & Accounting:
Linda Silva ThompsonBS, MS, MPH, PhD. Candidate
Associate Degree Programs:
Business Administration
Bachelor Degree Programs:
Public Accounting
General Business
Business Management
BBA Minors
Minor in Legal Studies
Minor in Marketing
Minor in Finance
Minor in Entrepreneurship
Minor in Human Resources
Minor in Accounting
Minor in Forensic Accounting
Minor in Sports Management
Minor in Entertainment & Media Management
Graduate Degree Programs:
MBA Concentrations
Concentration in Information Technology
Concentration in Health Care
Concentration in Finance
Concentration in Entrepreneurship
Concentration in Community Development
Concentration in Marketing
Request Info
Apply Now
Contact Us
E-Learning System
My Monroe
Google Apps (Student Email)
Faculty/Staff Email
Web Advisor
Financial Aid
King Graduate School
Monroe Online
Copyright ©2014
Monroe College. All Rights Reserved.


text:
The shooting deaths of rapper Glenn "Doe B" Thomas, 22, and Kimberle Johnson, 21, and the wounding of six others at Centennial Bar and Grill are tragedies making a big impact on the community- a community that wants change.
The victims' families leaned on the crowd for support Wednesday night during an anti-violence rally and tribute at Morgan Avenue Baptist Church.
The murders left their mark on even the youngest in the crowd.
"I've been having bad dreams about how it might happen to me and I've been having dreams about what might happen next," said LaMonica Smith, a child from Wetumpka in attendance. "I'm sad to see her face. It's just so sad to see her die on her birthday and Doe B, he had a long career and I just didn't want to see it end."
Members of the community and different local organizations gathered to bring awareness to the crimes in 2013 and to discuss how to decrease the numbers in 2014 by focusing on the younger generations. They called Kimberle "an innocent bystander" and "extraordinary woman who touched the lives of everyone around her" and Thomas "a local legend who inspired youth to follow their dreams."
"If you look at the trend, the people that are doing the killing are in their 20s and those that are dying are in their 20s so we want to bring awareness to our generation that really, enough is enough. We have to put down the hate, the violence because that's not solving anything. Someone being placed in the graveyard and someone being placed behind bars- it's time out for that," said Ja'Mel Brown, 22, the event sponsor. "We refuse to let another parent bury their child due to a homicide."
"When you say we lost Glenn and Kim, two extraordinary people, it's not a loss. It's a hope that we can keep going forward," added De'Anthony Turner, a speaker at the event. "They're in heaven smiling down on us and hoping that in 2014, we can touch the lives of the sick and the mentally ill. We want to save the killers and the shooters and the robbers and the thieves and the devils out there who are causing all this ruckus. That's what it's time to do today."
Speakers said the youth in the city need to be attending church and surrounding themselves with positive influences that inspire them to make the most of their lives.
The crowd also remembered Tim Hamilton, 20, who was shot twice in the incident at the Centennial Bar and Grill. Brown told those in attendance that Hamilton suffered a collapsed lung Wednesday night. He remains in critical condition.
The movement to stop violence in the community continues to gain momentum. Fresh Anointing House of Worship is hosting a town hall rally Thursday night at 6 PM to address how to tackle the issue. Community leaders have been invited to take part in the discussion.
1414 North Memorial Parkway
Huntsville, AL 35801
WAFF Is a Proud Member
of the Raycom Family of Stations
FCC Public File
EEO Report
Closed Captioning


text:
2015 Ninja® 1000 ABS
2015 Ninja® 650 ABS
2015 Ninja® 650
2015 Ninja® 300 ABS
2015 Ninja® 300 SE
2015 Ninja® 300
2014 Versys® ABS
2015 Ninja® ZX™-14R ABS 30th Anniversary
2015 Ninja® ZX™-14R ABS
2015 Ninja® ZX™-10R ABS 30th Anniversary
2015 Ninja® ZX™-10R ABS
2015 Ninja® ZX™-10R 30th Anniversary
2015 Ninja® ZX™-10R
2015 Ninja® ZX™-6R ABS 30th Anniversary
2015 Ninja® ZX™-6R ABS
2015 Ninja® ZX™-6R 30th Anniversary
2015 Ninja® ZX™-6R
2014 Ninja® ZX™-14R
Supersport Touring
2014 Concours® 14 ABS
2015 Vulcan® 1700 Voyager® ABS
2015 Vulcan® 1700 Vaquero® ABS
2014 Vulcan® 1700 Vaquero® ABS SE
2014 Vulcan® 1700 Nomad™ ABS
2014 Concours® 14 ABS
2015 Vulcan® 1700 Voyager® ABS
2015 Vulcan® 1700 Vaquero® ABS
2015 Vulcan® 900 Classic
2015 Vulcan® 900 Classic LT
2015 Vulcan® 900 Custom
2014 Vulcan® 1700 Vaquero® ABS SE
2014 Vulcan® 1700 Nomad™ ABS
Dual Purpose
Sport Utility
2015 Brute Force® 750 4x4i EPS
2015 Brute Force® 750 4x4i EPS Camo
2015 Brute Force® 750 4x4i
2015 Brute Force® 300
2015 Jet Ski® Ultra® 310X
2015 Jet Ski® Ultra® 310X SE
2015 Jet Ski® Ultra® 310LX
2015 Jet Ski® Ultra® 310R
2015 Jet Ski® Ultra® LX
2015 Jet Ski® STX®-15F
2015 Teryx® LE
2015 Teryx®
2015 Teryx® Camo
2015 Teryx4™ LE
2015 Teryx4™
2015 Teryx4™ Camo
2015 Mule PRO-FXT™
2015 Mule PRO-FXT™ EPS
2015 Mule PRO-FXT™ EPS LE
2015 Mule PRO-FXT™ EPS Camo
2015 Mule™ 4010 4x4
2015 Mule™ 4010 Trans4x4®
2015 Mule™ 4010 Trans4x4® Camo
2015 Mule™ 4000
2015 Mule™ 610 4x4
2015 Mule™ 610 4x4 XC
2015 Mule™ 610 4x4 XC SE
2015 Mule™ 610 4x4 XC Camo
2015 Mule™ 600
Supercross/Motocross Racing
Team Green
Racing Updates
Product Websites
Kawasaki Community
Demo Dealer
Product News
Jet Ski Watercraft
Side x Side Vehicles
Digital Catalogs
Kawasaki Clothing & Gear
Gifts & Collectables
Service & Maintenance
Performance Parts
View Wish List
Update Customer Info
Owner's Manuals, Warranty & More
My Kawasaki Login
Repair Notifications for your Vehicle
Parts Diagrams
Accessories, Clothing and Gear
Good Times Credit Card
Kawasaki Protection Plus
How To Videos & Tech Tips
Accelerate™ Magazine
Photo Gallery
Affiliate Clubs
Contact Us
My Kawasaki Login/Preferences
Order Status
Adobe Flash is required to view this content.
Get flash now.
The new Kawasaki Jet Ski® Ultra® 310R personal watercraft (PWC) is the perfect prescription for adventurous riders seeking a pure adrenaline rush on the water. Based on Kawasaki's popular Jet Ski Ultra 310X, the new R-model draws from decades of Kawasaki's championship-winning PWC racing experience to create the ultimate "sport" personal watercraft that's ideal for hard core recreation and racing.
New Extreme Performance Version of the World's Most Powerful Production PWC
The new Kawasaki Jet Ski® Ultra® 310R personal watercraft (PWC) is the perfect prescription for adventurous riders seeking a pure adrenaline rush on the water. Based on Kawasaki's popular Jet Ski Ultra 310X, the new R-model draws from decades of Kawasaki's championship-winning PWC racing experience to create the ultimate "sport" personal watercraft that's ideal for hard core recreation and racing.
Ultra 310R's new ergonomic appointments not only enhance its aggressive, racy looks, but they're designed for hard core sport riding and comfort to boot. Borrowing a cue from Kawasaki's championship-winning KX™ line of motocross motorcycles, the Ultra 310R features a motocross-style handlebar complete with a crossbar pad for hard sport riding. The electro-polished stainless steel bar transfers direct rider inputs and offers tremendous leverage for easy maneuverability. It is also comfortable for longer rides. New handlebar mounts are adjustable to 12 different height/reach combinations to fit a wide range of riders and riding styles.
A new two-piece Sportseat™ with KX-motocross-style seat material and graphics offers roomy accommodations for a rider plus two passengers. The new seat design features a slimmer shape for more comfort to the thighs along with good hip support, and its narrower width makes it easy to grip with the knees when stand-up riding in rough water. The passenger portion of the seat also features a slimmer design that makes it easier for passengers to hold with their legs in rough water conditions. The passenger handrail is repositioned higher to offer a more natural ergonomic location, which helps reduced passenger fatigue, and it is reshaped for better holding power.
With 310 horsepower from its supercharged inline four-cylinder engine, it's also the most powerful production PWC in history, and with its extraordinary handling and an impressive collection of performance-enhancing qualities, the Jet Ski® Ultra® 310R leaves the competition floundering in its wake. Performance watercraft enthusiasts seeking a healthy dose of aquatic fun need look no farther than the Ultra 310R.
The Ultra 310R's Digital Fuel Injection-fed (DFI®) 1,498cc engine is the reigning king of horsepower, and its crown is the high-tech Eaton TVS series supercharger. Along with Kawasaki's Electronic Throttle Valve (ETV) system, the supercharger gives the engine exhilarating yet linear power, and its race-derived hull design makes short work of carving precise turns in calm or rough water, exactly what hard core performance enthusiasts would expect from a Kawasaki sport Jet Ski.
The Ultra 310R benefits from a key friction-reducing mechanical revisions as well as improvements to several components that add power and increase durability. For instance, the 310R's intake manifold has been reshaped for a longer and slimmer profile that increases low-mid range power. A new fuel pump with a greater flow volume than the previous unit adds power and increases fuel efficiency, and revisions to the Fuel Economy Assistance mode in the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) significantly increase range for long-distance riding.
Kawasaki Jet Skis are the gold standard in quality and reliability, and Kawasaki engineers are relentless in their pursuit to take those attributes to higher levels. Going through the 310R engine with a fine-toothed comb yielded several significant revisions, such as new cast pistons with a V-groove added to the second ring land (between the top and second ring grooves) for more consistent oil retention at high loads. To increase piston cooling, the oil jet system that sprays the underside of the piston has been revised to include two jets per piston, rather than just one, for better performance. Additional baffles in the oil pan have also been added to prevent oil from accumulating on one side of the pan during tight turns or sudden acceleration or deceleration, and the crankcase also has larger return holes to facilitate oil return to the pan. Better oil management equals increased reliability.
The water jackets in the engine are thicker than the previous model for increased cooling performance, and they utilize a check-valve that opens when the engine is running but closes when it is stopped to keep the engine cooler without over-cooling. The 310R also receives a knock sensor that improves engine protection by retarding ignition to suppress abnormal combustion – or engine knock – if it should occur. The system activates a buzzer and the condition is indicated on the instrument panel to warn the rider.
But eye-watering thrust is still the main attraction with the Ultra 310R, and its fuel-injected, DOHC, inline four-cylinder engine pumps out pulse-quickening performance like no other PWC powerplant on earth! Its roots-type Eaton Twin Vortices Series (TVS) supercharger's efficiency lies in its design, as a pair of four-lobe rotors boost engine output more efficiently than any other production watercraft forced-induction system on the market. The TVS is a fixed-displacement design, which means it produces large quantities of boost at all rpm, from idle to redline. It gives the 310R a flat torque curve and linear power across the rev range that no other production watercraft turbocharger or supercharger system can match.
Ultra 310R's smooth power delivery is due to its ability to channel compressed air through the engine at a steady rate, instead of in waves, as other superchargers do. And its liquid-cooled intercooler helps to cool the compressed intake charge as it enters the Ultra 310R's combustion chambers. Cooler air equals denser air, which means less power is lost to performance-robbing engine heat.
But ultimate performance is worthless without rock-solid reliability, and the 310R engine was built from the bottom to top for long-lasting durability in a supercharged application. Its internal engine parts are manufactured to a level of Kawasaki Jet Ski reliability that is unparalleled in the PWC industry. A perfect example of Kawasaki's attention to detail lies in the ultra 310R's super-efficient oil cooler, which helps minimize engine temperatures by circulating oil between two cooling jackets. The result is 310 class-leading and stone-reliable horsepower.
An impressive collection of futuristic electronics are standard on the Ultra 310R. Naturally, Kawasaki's high-tech Electronic Control Unit (ECU) is the command center of the entire system. The ECU coordinates the injectors and throttle bodies of Kawasaki's highly advanced DFI to route the optimum amount of air/fuel mixture into the combustion chambers with help from the Electronic Throttle Valve (ETV) system (which converts throttle lever inputs into electronic signals that are then passed on to the throttle body).
Ultra 310R's technological arsenal also includes a range of varied riding "modes" such as Fuel Economy Assistance mode for maximum economy during slower going, and a one-touch 5 mph mode for hassle-free use in no-wake zones. There's also a convenient Electronic Cruise Control system for steady cruising speeds when touring and a Smart Learning Operation (SLO) mode, which allows newer riders to become familiar with the high-performance handling traits and exhilarating throttle response of the Ultra 310R at a more relaxed pace. The electronics package also includes a smart Economical Riding Indicator on the digital dash display, which alerts the rider when the Ultra 310R engine is operating in the most fuel-efficient manner, such as at planing speed where hull resistance is substantially reduced.
Electronic Trim Control (ETC) is another example of the advanced technology that Kawasaki engineers have packed into the Ultra 310R. The ETC controls the nozzle angle of the 160mm jet pump to adjust the hull attitude to suit both water surface conditions and riding style. The system has a plus-or-minus range of eight degrees, and it allows the Ultra 310R's hull to take the fullest advantage of its razor-sharp turning characteristics.
An advanced impeller design is new for the 310 models for 2014, with revised blade angles for increased acceleration. During acceleration, when cruising or at high speed, horizontal guide "vanes" on the propulsion grate improve hull tracking and reduce cavitation during acceleration for better hook-up. It all adds up to the most advanced production watercraft propulsion system in the industry.
The Ultra 301R's race-derived, fiberglass-reinforced plastic hull is meticulously designed to be both incredibly strong and surprisingly light. Special reinforcements inside the hull help it to retain strength so that its overall thickness can be optimized for light weight, which aids in maneuverability. The hull has an ingenious cleaning system with a two-circuit design, with each circuit utilizing a dedicated flushing port for easy maintenance. Radically edged contours and nose trim combine to give the Ultra 310R's bow a sleek and aggressive look.
Of course, it's equally important that the Ultra 310R's cockpit and rider accommodations match its high-performance engine and hull features, and they do. Front and center is a high-visibility instrument panel with a new all-LCD info screen design that's not only futuristic but also easier to monitor than ever. Aided by a visor for easier viewing in sunny conditions, the highly legible LCD display boasts a new face design with a new fuel consumption function that can display gallons per hour or gallons per minute, a boost meter scale and riding-mode displays along with a range of other functions, including clock; time, trip and hour meter; digital or bar-graph tachometer; water and air temperature gauges; speedometer and max-speed functions. Keeping track of the Ultra 310R's vital signs is a cinch.
The Ultra 301R's deck design gives all riders plenty of legroom for ideal comfort, and its triangular-pattern deck material offers excellent grip for the feet. A reverse lever on the left side of the craft features an ergonomically ideal design for easy operation, and optimally curved mirrors offer a wide rear view.
With 20.6 gallons of fuel capacity – the most in its class – the Ultra 310R allows plenty of range for long-distance rides. Up front, a handy storage bin with a generous 54 gallons of capacity hides under the front cowl, and dual drink holders keep refreshments within easy reach. Total combined storage capacity for the Ultra 310R is an industry-leading 56 gallons. So you really can take it with you!
Supreme power. Superb handling and comfort. Sophisticated, intelligent user-friendly features. They're what make Kawasaki Jet Skis legendary in the personal watercraft world, and the Jet Ski Ultra 310R stands a head and shoulders above the competition at the pinnacle of the PWC performance genre.
Kawasaki Genuine Accessories are available through authorized Kawasaki dealers.
• UPGRADED Supercharged DOHC inline four-cylinder engine produces a staggering 310 horsepower. It's the most powerful production PWC in history
• NEW KX™ motocross-style electro-polished stainless steel handlebar enhances the 310R's sport riding capabilities while also providing excellent all-day comfort
• NEW 12-position handlebar mount can be adjusted for reach and height to allow operation while standing or sitting and to suit a wide range of riders and conditions
• NEW Sportseat™ offers a special support bolster and a grippy KX-motocross-like seat cover for hard sport riding
• NEW Aggressive graphics reinforce the hard-core sport capabilities of the new Ultra 310R
• Strong and light, the 301R's deep-V hull offers superb straight-line tracking and precise cornering performance
• Industry-leading, 56-gallon storage capacity lets you bring your gear with you
• 20.6-gallon fuel tank is the largest in its class, providing tremendous range for long rides
• Separate keys for full power operation and Smart Learning Operation
• UPGRADED 1,498cc, liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder engine makes 10 additional horsepower through reduced mechanical loss, improved efficiency
• Eaton TVS constant-displacement supercharger and liquid-cooled intercooler boost performance and reliability
• NEW Heat-resistant plastic intake manifold is reshaped for improved low-mid range power
• NEW Cast pistons feature additional ring land V-grooves for better oil retention
• Hardened nickel 33.4mm intake and 28.3mm exhaust valves offer superior reliability
• Two-layer oil cooler offers efficient cooling
• Large cam chain increases reliability in a supercharged engine application
• Reinforced crankcase adds to engine's durability and reliability
• NEW Fuel pump provides greater fuel flow volume for increased power and better fuel efficiency
• NEW Thicker water jackets improve cooling performance
• Check valve system between the cylinder jacket and water muffler that shuts water flow off above 2,000 rpm, to keep the cooling water inside the cylinder jacket for optimum cooling performance
• NEW Piston cooling oil jets increased from one jet per piston to two jets per piston for increased piston cooling
• NEW Oil pan features additional baffle plates to prevent oil slosh during tight turns or extreme acceleration/deceleration
• NEW Crankcase oil return holes are enlarged for quicker oil return to the oil pan
**Horsepower measured in PS at the crankshaft under controlled conditions. Actual performance may vary.
• Four-lobe, constant-displacement design offers significant performance increase over standard roots-type unit
• System force-feeds the engine two liters of air with every revolution, providing a constant supply of high-pressure intake air at all rpm
• Delivers compressed air continuously, not in waves, for smoother power delivery
• Produces large amounts of boost even at low rpm for instant and powerful acceleration right off of idle
• Provides a flat and linear torque curve with mellifluous, lag-free power across the entire rev range Produces more low-rpm boost than competitive or aftermarket systems, with a maximum of 17 psi of boost pressure
• Two different air bypass valves are used to prevent over boosting at low and medium rpm
• Efficiently cools high-pressure intake air – cooler air is denser and makes more power
• Liquid-cooled intercooler design maintains consistent thermal performance
• High-flow fuel injectors with four orifices are fitted for combustion efficiency
• Single throttle body features a large, 60mm bore diameter
• 4-into-2-into-1 exhaust system routes the exhaust pipe upward and allows the smoothest path for exhaust gases, maximizing exhaust efficiency
• Large-diameter, race-developed 160mm jet pump efficiently converts the Ultra 310R's massive horsepower output into instantaneous thrust
• Pump is designed to deliver consistent output and good "bite" even in rough water conditions
• NEW Impeller features a revised 3-blade design that gives the 310R increased acceleration performance at the hit of the throttle
• Eight-vane intake guides and regulates the flow of water to the impeller for consistent, efficient and powerful propulsion
• Features a groove from the center to the rear of the plate to enhance straight-line tracking
• Allows the angle of the jet pump nozzle to be controlled to adjust the attitude of the hull to suit water surface conditions and riding styles
• Adjustment range is plus or minus 8 degrees from standard
• Convenient electronic cruise control smoothly holds a set speed from 5 mph up to top speed
• Accelerator Position Sensor (APS) converts throttle lever input to an electronic signal that's used to control the throttle valve via an electric motor for crisp and smooth throttle response
• Redundancy in the system helps ensure control is maintained in case of failure
• One-touch, push-button 5 mph mode allows hassle-free no-wake zone riding
• NEW Fuel Economy Assistance mode revised for significant fuel savings and increased range
• Economical Riding Indicator mode can be viewed on a graph on the LCD info screen
• Eco Mode softens and smoothes engine performance while conserving fuel
• Designed to emulate the performance of Kawasaki's IJSBA championship-winning race machines
• Reinforced inner bow is extremely light with ample strength to handle the engine's power output
• Exemplary straight-line tracking and responsive handling in both calm and rough-water conditions set performance benchmarks for the class
• The lower hull is specially designed to distribute the engine and power delivery loads over a wide area
• The 310R's deep-V hull enables a steep bank angle for motorcycle-like turning performance. This reduces the lateral G-loads imposed on riders during turns, allowing them to better concentrate on riding
• The 22.5-degree V-angle at the bottom of the hull helps reduce unwanted spinouts during sharp turns
• Delivers the neutral handling and turning characteristics for which Kawasaki Jet Ski watercraft are famous
• Bottom of the hull slants upward steeply from the center section to the bow, so the Ultra 310R can penetrate swells and waves with less shock, pushing through waves rather than bouncing over them at high speeds
• Integrated sponsons extend from the hull, providing wallow-free straight-line performance and contributing significantly to the 310R's excellent maneuverability while helping to retain the narrow hull design
• The Ultra 310R's Kawasaki Splash Deflector uses three bottom-mounted ridges and an additional deflector mounted at the top to deflect water splashing forward from under the hull
• Whether turning or strait-line riding at any speed. the Quattro KSD minimizes spray, allowing greater rider concentration
• Kawasaki Smart Steering® (KSS®) monitors steering input and engine speed and, when certain conditions are met, intelligently raises rpm to help initiate a turn
• Smart Learning Operation (SLO) allows newer riders to become familiar with the handling and response of this Jet Ski watercraft at a more relaxed pace
• Two separate keys, one for SLO mode and one for full-power operation, help prevent confusion over which setting is in use
• NEW KX motocross-style electro-polished stainless steel handlebar enhances the 310R's sport riding capabilities while also providing excellent all-day comfort
• NEW 12-position handlebar mount can be adjusted for reach and height to allow operation while standing or sitting and to suit a wide range of riders and conditions
• NEW Sportseat™ offers a special support bolster and a grippy KX-motocross-like seat cover for hard sport riding
• NEW passenger handrail is relocated to a more ergo-friendly location to reduce passenger fatigue and features a redesigned handle for better grip
• Ergonomic deck design gives plenty of legroom
• Left-side reverse lever is ergonomically designed for easy operation
• Quick and easy hose connection allows a simple method to flush sea water out of the engine
• NEW Optimally curved mirrors are revised for a wide rear view angle and are mounted to the upper deck to facilitate opening of the hatch cover
• The Ultra 310R offers a class-leading 56 gallons of total storage capacity
• Large-capacity, fully sealed storage area with detachable storage tray offers ample room for recreational equipment
• A detachable drink holder with space for two drink bottles is mounted on the center console
• Compact integrated underseat storage area is Ideal for small items like a ski rope
• 20.6-gallon fuel tank boasts more capacity than any machine in its class, extending range
• NEW Easy-to-read LCD screen features new face design
• NEW Instrumentation includes a new fuel consumption function, revised boost meter scale, riding modes, external water and air temperature, clock, time, trip and hour meters, tachometer (in digital or graph displays), speedometer and max speed functions
• Eco Indicator shows the rider when the speed and throttle opening is in the 310R's most efficient range
*Note: Specifications and pricing are subject to change. Dealer sets the actual destination charge, your price may vary.
(2015) Jet Ski® Ultra® 310R
(2014) Jet Ski® Ultra® 310R
©2014 Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.
Your Privacy Rights
Shopping Cart
Member Login
2014 Product Launch
Digital Brochures
Recall/Safety Info
Our Company


text:
I will give you 1,000 acres of land on Planet Orgy for your people if you aid us in this military conflict.
Moderators: Elmagnifico, BrickSyd
jifel wrote:"Any fool can make something bigger and more dangerous, but it takes an intelligent man to do the opposite."
As if we care. More explosives!
NatalyaAF wrote:Master Ecabob, we shall crush our opponents.
Users browsing this forum: No registered users and 2 guests


text:
By J SWYGART
Textbooks may not be extinct in public schools quite yet, but they're certainly headed down that path. And educators at North Adams Community Schools have embraced that growing trend.
By BOB SHRALUKA
Mayor John Schultz expressed it best: "Will anything come of it, I can't say. But we put our best foot forward. Maybe something will (come of it) some day down the road. I hope so."
Speaking at this week's city council meeting, the mayor was referring to the visit by two Chinese businessmen which had ended earlier on Tuesday. Arriving late Sunday night, the two men spent all of Monday and part of Tuesday looking over three of the city's major industries, the hospital, schools, and much more.
By MARK TURNER
It would seem that making a movie based on a successful series of books would be an easy thing, but that's not the case. To begin with there is the task of bringing the entire story that most would read over a period of say a week and turning it into a something that takes a little over two hours.
By DYLAN MALONE
It's amazing what an off-season can do for a program.
Just ask Bellmont football coach Larry Getts who has his Braves off to a 2-0 start including a fantastic showing in Berne against another program on the rise in South Adams.
By DYLAN MALONE
With all of the 'roid rage going on in the MLB, there were bound to be guys who got off the juice and had off seasons at the plate. By the same logic, there are plenty of pitchers having fantastic years as evidenced by the third perfect game of the baseball season August 15 by Seattle's Felix Hernandez. It was the first perfect game of the Mariners' franchise history.
That got me thinkin…
By BOB SHRALUKA
Bit of a tough night at city council.
People who genuinely like each other and who respect each other's work got into a lengthy — and sometimes not heated but "warm" — debate over a proposal for a significant pay increase for all members of the city police department.
By J SWYGART
By BOB SHRALUKA
It is difficult to find the words to describe one's thoughts about the death of a young man like Nick Taylor. It is unimaginable to know the grief and pain being suffered by his family.
By MARK TURNER
Mel Gibson has become the movie star folks love to kick around. First, when he made PASSION OF THE CHRIST, folks in Hollywood laughed at him ... until the movie became a blockbuster. When he went through his public divorce he was ridiculed.
By DYLAN MALONE
This year's fall sports preview hits shelves and living rooms tomorrow evening and after completing it, I have to say, I'm stoked about fall sports!
There are so many unanswered questions that I just can't wait to see the answers to as the season progresses.


text:
Write Access
Write Access
DVD Inlay
I just finished reading the latest edition of Linux Magazine. Alas again no DVD box (yes, I read your reply to the customer complaint). I still don't agree, and I'd rather have the DVD box back. I am willing to pay a little extra for the service.
Anyway, could you at least make the covers of the DVD boxes available as a download from your site? Consider it a service to your readers that really want the DVD box (like me). I am going to put the DVDs in a box, and I do want a nice cover with the necessary information in there also. If necessary, I can print the cover myself.
Rob Prikanowski
Thank you for your feedback!
The printable DVD covers are now back by popular demand. You will find the DVD inlays at our website. Visit the following page: http://www.linux-magazine.com/issues or (http://www.linuxpromagazine.com/issues). Click on the picture of the issue for which you'd like to obtain the DVD cover. On the issue page, select the link labeled DVD inlay. Download the PDF image to your desktop.
I am thinking of moving on from the Microsoft monopoly. I currently use Windows ME and XP operating systems; my main worry is a compatibility issue. Is Linux capable of accepting software not designed to run with the linux O/S, for example Microsoft messenger/hotmail? If you say generally OK, how do I start please? I'm looking forward to hearing from you.
Michael Daniels
Buy this article as PDF
(incl. VAT)
Buy Linux Magazine
Visit Our Shop
Direct Download
Read full article as PDF:Letters.pdf (112.63 kB)
Tag Cloud
Mozilla Labs Shuts Down
Mozilla's product think tank sinks silently into history.
Internet Giants Launch Collaboration to Improve Open Source
TODO group will focus on open source tools in large-scale environments.
Fedora Announces New Partition Manager App
New tool will look like GParted but support a wider range of storage technologies.
Mozilla Releases a New Firefox
New public key pinning feature will help prevent man-in-the-middle attacks.
Tool Predicts Which Websites Will be Compromised
Carnegie Mellon researchers say 3 million pages could fall down the phishing hole in the next year.
SSH Key Management Guidelines
The US government rolls new best-practice rules for protecting SSH.
Knoppix 7.4 Released
Klaus Knopper announces the latest version of his iconic Live Linux system.
PHP Attack Puts WordPress and Drupal at Risk
All websites that use these popular CMS tools could be vulnerable to denial of service attacks if users don't install the updates.
Heartbleed Bleeds On
According to a report, many potential victims of the Heartbleed attack have patched their systems, but few have cleaned up the crime scene to protect themselves from the effects of a previous intrusion.
Drone Brain Goes Open Source
DARPA and NICTA release the code for the ultra-secure microkernel system used in aerial drones.


text:
You must earn 10,000 points to post other members' whiteboard
Neat license plate.
GREAT JOB!!!... CONGRATS Consecutive Days: 300 !!! I Your NEWEST GB...AL
Congratulations on having the tenacity to post for 300 consecutive days! Warren
My pleasure, you earned it.
Congrats on 3.5M!
Thanks Al
Welcome to the club...You and I are on the bottom of Consecutive Days leader board. GREAT JOB!!!... CONGRATS Consecutive Days: 262 !!! I am at 320 DAYS!! HAPPY NEW YEAR MY NEWEST GB...AL
Thanks! He did it again today, posted the BP at $3.33, when it's really $3.23. It happens way too often to be a mistake.
Hello. I saw that you've noticed "sunocouri" posting bad prices. I've seen it as well.
I believe he is the owner of the Sunoco at Frankford & Knights. He posts higher prices for the BP across the street from him as well as the Citgo at Morrell & Frankford. This has been going on for months. How can he be reported for this? Thanks.


text:
SCV Outdoor Report: A Fluff Piece
By Wendy Langhans
Oh look, there goes one....and there goes another...the air was full of them. I was sitting out on my back porch, enjoying a cup of tea, literally watching the world pass by. The sky was full of tiny little white pieces of fluff, swirling past me on the ever-changing air currents. What was going on?
The fluff was Cottonwood seeds, casting their fate to the warm spring winds. When we think of seeds, we often picture maple seeds, with their sturdy samara (wings) or dandelion seeds, with their elegant pappus (gossamer-like umbrellas). There's nothing aerodynamically elegant about Cottonwood seeds. They are borne aloft on tufts of plant fibers known as trichomes. But trichomes are quick and easy to produce, and the Cottonwood trees produce mass quantities of seeds, which are carried for miles by air and water currents.
Cottonwood seed-pods opening to disperse seeds
As Annie Dillard wrote in Pilgrim at Tinker Creek, "Nature is, above all, profligate." Seed production carries a metabolic cost. For example, acorns are costly to produce. But acorns can rely on their ample endosperm for nourishment and can be stored for long periods of time (up to 6 mo for white oaks and 3 years for red oaks). In contrast, Cottonwood seeds, which the tree produces in seemingly wild and reckless abundance, are much easier to produce. They're tiny, about 1 mm in diameter, and therefore have a brief "shelf life". According to the U.S. Forest Service, these "seeds may remain viable for 1 to 5 weeks after dispersal" and "Viability is lost if a suitable microsite is not found within 2 or 3 days of seed becoming wet."
Cottonwood seeds on the trail at East & Rice Canyon
With such a limited shelf life, cottonwood seeds need to land at a favorable spot to germinate and thrive - one that is not too wet and not too dry - a riparian habitat near a stream bed is ideal. Since riparian habitats are few and far between in Southern California, cottonwood seeds must be light enough to travel for miles. Launch time must also be favorable - at a time when the heaviest winter runoff in the streambed is beginning to recede but before the ground dries up from the heat - say - sometime in April. Which is why the air is full of cottonwood fluff right now.
Is Annie Dillard correct: is nature, above all, profligate? I'm not so sure. Given the constraints of the environment, which seed strategy would consume more of the Cottonwood tree's limited resources - a few elegant seeds or a ginormous number of "just good enough" seeds? Should the tree produce a few Rolls-Royce "Silver Ghosts" or a larger number of "Model T Fords"? Perhaps Cottonwood trees aren't so profligate, after all. And perhaps this story isn't just a "fluff piece", either.
Upcoming Outdoor Events:
Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve. If you want to visit the Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve, here's a link.
Trail Maintenance Schedule. Come join our volunteers as they help maintain our trails. Contact Steve at email@example.com for time and place.
Wednesday mornings, April 7, 14, 21 & 28.
Saturday mornings, April 10 & 24
You can listen to stories like this every Friday morning at 7:10 a.m. on "The Hike Report", brought to you by your hometown radio station KHTS (AM1220) and by the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority.
For the complete MRCA hike and activity schedule and for trail maps, click here or go to www.LAMountains.com.


text:
Thank you for visiting Blue Moon Home Furnishings. Our inventory is constantly changing due to the handcrafted nature of the products. Please visit us in Olde Montgomery to see our current selection or to custom order exactly what you are looking for.
Solid Wood, Hand Hammered Copper, Chiseled Marble, Hand Forged Iron, Mouth Blown Glass, Italian Leather – these are some of the wonderful materials used to create our unique home furnishings. The details however, are what take it to a new level. Whether it's hand planed wood or a hand painted finish, the craftsmanship is what sets our pieces apart. Complementing accessories also complete the look, and we carry an extensive line of table and floor lamps along with wall art, mirrors, and accent pieces. This is quality rustic furniture that is warm and inviting and definitely artistically inspired.
Since its inception in 1992, Blue Moon has been bringing unique, handcrafted, and rustic furniture and accessories to the Cincinnati area. Our newest location in Olde Montgomery was designed to offer customer favorites including David Marsh furniture, Copper & Marble dining tables, and Specialty Upholstery to name a few. We also expanded our line of wall art and lighting and are constantly searching for unique accessories and accent pieces. We have the ability to customize and personalize many of our products and enjoy working with our clients to find the perfect piece.


text:
''Raising the Ghost'' Flyfishing for Steelhead Video by Fly Boys - DVD
- Fly-fishing for steelhead
- Set in Northern British Columbia
- Running time: 55 minutes
Just WOW! Thrill to amazing surface action on steelhead in Northern British Columbia on the Skeena. Imagine wild steelhead slurping down Green Drakes. It's the kind of unbelievable dream scenario that will make the most hardened veteran weak in the knees. It's 55 minutes that you'll never forget!
Need Help? 7 days a week: 7am to 10pm CT or call 1.800.227.7776 anytime


text: Sri Venkateswara University was established in the year 1954 in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh and since its inception has been imparting high quality education to thousands of students in various fields of academics. Sri Venkateswara University College of Engineering is one of the colleges of Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati. At the time of its establishment, the University was imparting education under seven departments such as Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Botany, Zoology, Economics and Philosophy. As-of-now the SV University is offering top quality education to its students under 58 departments with faculty strength of over 400.