text:
Summary of the Joint Work Plan with the CBD
The Joint Work Plan was communicated to the Contracting Parties to the Ramsar Convention as an attachment to Diplomatic Note 1998/6, 27 March 1998,and distributed by the CBD secretariat as an information document to the participants in the 4th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity, Bratislava, Slovak Republic, May 1998. Decision IV/15 of COP4 endorsed the Joint Work Plan and recommended it as a model for future cooperative arrangements. -- Web Editor.
Summary of the Joint Work Plan between the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Convention on Wetlands (1998-99)
[document UNEP/CBD/COP/4/Inf.8]
International cooperation
Transboundary cooperation
Both Conventions will continue to encourage their Contracting Parties to work cooperatively to manage transboundary watersheds and the migratory species reliant on wetland ecosystems (inland water ecosystems and marine and coastal ecosystems).
Small Island Developing States
Because both Conventions recognise the special significance and circumstances of the Small Island Developing States, the secretariats will collaborate to encourage an integrated approach to implementation.
General measures for conservation and sustainable use
National strategies, policies and plans
Both Conventions recognise that for the long-term sustainability of inland water ecosystems and marine and coastal ecosystems, there must be cross-sectoral approaches taken for the development of national policy instruments which integrate biodiversity and wetland conservation considerations into broader frameworks.
Integrated watershed and coastal zone management
In view of the inter-relationship and impacts between land use and the status of inland water and marine and coastal ecosystems, collaboration will be developed between the Ramsar and the terrestrial work programs of the CBD with attention to incentive measures for sustainable use.
Appropriate technologies
Ramsars COP7 will consider "The role of wetlands in the hydrological cycle" and "The role of wetlands, both natural and constructed, in pollution management", which will be generally available to CBD Parties and others for their application as appropriate.
Identification and monitoring
Status and trends
Ramsar is funding a Global Review of Wetland Resources which is directly complementary to the Global International Waters Assessment (GIWA) project.
Monitoring and assessment
Ramsars Scientific and Technical Review Panel (STRP) has prepared a paper which will provide Ramsar Contracting Parties with a basis for monitoring to detect impacts on water-dominated ecosystems and which could be directly transferable to the SBSTTA program for inland water ecosystems.
Assessment techniques
Ramsar 7th COP will include a technical session on a special analysis of indicator species and guidelines for rapid assessments of wetlands and water resources from the perspectives of biodiversity and ecological/hydrological functions, which will assist CBD Contracting Parties and the SBSTTA with progressing activities in this area.
In-situ conservation
Involvement of local and indigenous communities
Ramsars 7th COP, which has the overall theme of People and Wetlands: The Vital Link, will present guidelines for the involvement of local and indigenous people in wetland management.
Legal instruments
To assist Ramsar Contracting Parties in the area of legislative frameworks, the Convention Bureau has engaged the IUCNs Environmental Law Centre to develop guidelines for reviewing the legal framework for wetlands conservation and wise use, which will be equally relevant to CBD focal points.
Financial and other support
CBD Decision III/21, Operative Paragraph 12, "Invites Contracting parties to relevant biological diversity-related Conventions to explore opportunities for accessing funding through the Global Environment Facility for relevant projects, including projects involving a number of countries". Given the areas of close collaboration and synergy between CBD and the Ramsar Convention which the proposed Joint Work Plan describes, the Bureau of the Ramsar Convention has outlined under Section II.12 of the document a range of projects which it considers should be recommended for support to the GEF by CBDs COP4. These are mostly priority actions at the country level to enable developing countries, and those with economies in transition, to better implement their obligations under the CBD and Ramsar Conventions as they pertain to inland water ecosystems and marine and coastal ecosystems.
Sustainable (wise) use of resources
Wise Use Guidelines and Resource Centre
The Ramsar Convention has adopted Guidelines and Additional Guidance on implementation of its Wise Use concept for inland water ecosystems and marine and coastal ecosystems which are available to all, and could be promoted to CBD focal points to assist them with the management of these habitat types.
Economic valuation
Ramsars 1997 publication Economic Valuation of Wetlands: a Guide for Policy Makers and Planners provides the most current information on wetland valuation techniques.
The ecosystem approach under the CBD and the Wise Use Guidelines
The two secretariats will examine whether the Wise Use Guidelines and the principles of the Ecosystem Approach are compatible and how they could be harmonised.
Research and training
Promoting research and the transfer of the knowledge gained will continue to be a priority for both Conventions.
Training and capacity building
It is proposed that in partnership the two Conventions should seek to mobilise donor support, and especially that of the Financial Mechanism, to foster in-country training as well as to escalate the level and intensity of training and capacity building to allow the representatives from developing countries and those with economies in transition to attend training programs.
Public education and awareness
Both Conventions recognise the importance of, and will continue to promote increased public awareness and education about the values, functions and benefits of natural habitats and resources.
Technical and scientific cooperation
Collaboration between technical bodies
The Secretariats will work to ensure regular dialogue and a flow of information between SBSTTA and the Scientific and Technical Review Panel of the Ramsar Convention.
Sharing networks and rosters of expertise
It is proposed that there be collaboration between the two Conventions to complement CBDs establishment of a roster of experts with specialisation in inland water ecosystems and marine and coastal ecosystems and Ramsars Wetland Experts Database.
Collaboration with the broader water resource community
The Ramsar Bureau is using the opportunity of its participation in high-level global water fora to actively advocate and encourage the adoption of an ecosystem approach to river basin management.
Financial mechanisms
CBD Decision III/21, under Operative Paragraph 12, invited "Contracting Parties to relevant biological diversity-related Conventions to explore opportunities for accessing funding through the Global Environment Facility for relevant projects, including projects involving a number of countries".
Given this previous Decision by the CBD, the Ramsar Convention Bureau has prepared the following advice for the Contracting Parties of the Convention on Biological Diversity. It is designed to assist with providing Additional Guidance to the Financial Mechanism at COP4 (Agenda Item 14.5) in order to operationalize the priority actions under the two Conventions as they pertain to inland water ecosystems and marine and coastal ecosystems:
Mobilising resources at the country level
At the country level, the priorities for funding support through the Financial Mechanism are as follows:
- enabling activities to establish the necessary policy and legislative frameworks and instruments, including cross-sectoral consultative processes, leading to harmonised implementation of the Conventions on Biological Diversity and Wetlands at the national scale;
- the completion of national inventories of wetland and associated water resources to allow the identification of ecosystems (according to the definition used by the Ramsar Convention) of global importance in accordance with the Criteria for Wetlands of International Importance adopted by the Ramsar Convention, and encouraged under Annex I of the Convention on Biological Diversity;
- the preparation of integrated management plans for the Wetlands of International Importance designated under the Ramsar Convention, and those identified under b. above;
- the preparation of management reviews and the undertaking of appropriate remedial and other actions for those sites included on the Ramsar Conventions Montreux Record of Wetlands of International Importance where changes in ecological character have occurred, are occurring or are likely to occur;
- the preparation, and implementation, of integrated river basin management plans, where these cross international borders, to ensure the long term conservation of these sites of global significance for the conservation of biological diversity, and
- the capacity building and training needed to provide the long-term skills base within these countries for (a-e) above to be undertaken.
Targeted research
With regards the Financial Mechanism supporting targeted research which contributes to the conservation of biological diversity and the sustainable use of its components, CBDs COP4 is urged to advise the Financial Mechanism to give high priority to supporting:
- a review of the threatening processes contributing to the loss of biological diversity and breakdown of ecological processes in wetland ecosystems,
- the identification of the global measures needed to combat these threats, and
- specific investigations into the degrading impacts of toxic chemicals on inland water ecosystems and marine and coastal ecosystems, and how these can be addressed.


text:
10th May 2012 – Often lack of convenience or ease of use is cited as the reason people are unwilling to adapt to a greener lifestyle. Carpooling.co.uk are continuing to reduce the obstacles to easily find someone suitable to carpool with as they release their new iPhone app.
The app boasts new features including a booking system allowing users to see how many seats are still available and with a few clicks, the option to book a seat in the vehicle. There is also the additional option for people who chose, to use the booking system to now request and make payment for their trip through Paypal. This gives users the added security of knowing their payment is secure and reliable. Users also have greater access to additional information such as user ratings and profile pictures through the app.
The app allows full access to the 650,000 carpools available in the www.carpooling.co.uk network and includes the new booking and online payment system providing added transparency and reliability in arranging carpools. Using the iPhone app allows people to organize alternative, sustainable transport spontaneously, on-the-go. "In the past, finding suitable people to carpool with has been a challenge but our iPhone app allows people to access available carpools while on the move,"[1] says Markus Barnikel, CEO of carpooling.com. "In terms of car sharing, we are noticing that more and more people are using our smartphone apps to book their trips because of the convenience and ease of use. Our iPhone and Android apps have been downloaded almost 400,000 times. People are clearly more mobile today than ever before and are increasingly demanding travel options that are convenient, affordable and sustainable."
With Earth Day recently behing us and World Environment Day around the corner, carpooling.co.uk are calling for people to consider the under- used resource of empty seats on roads, to register them on their website to help make transport more efficient and sustainable in the future. The app is available for download here: http://www.carpooling.co.uk/pages/mobile_iphone
About carpooling.co.uk:
carpooling.co.uk is the English branch of carpooling.com, the largest car sharing network in Europe, transporting over 1 million people each month in 5000 cities and 45 countries. carpooling.co.uk offers reliable car sharing opportunities that are affordable and easy to access by computer, mobile phone (iPhone, Android) or social networks (Facebook). Drivers and passengers can book a seat online and rate each other for additional convenience and safety. By sharing a car, people save petrol and money, reduce carbon emissions and meet new friends. Today the site counts over 3.6 million registered users and gives daily access to more than 650,000 transport opportunities. Thanks to carpooling.com, 725,000 tons of C02 and 375 million liters of petrol have been saved; not counting the millions of savings by users and the thousands of friendships created (including more than 10 marriages!).
Contact: Abi Moore
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Tel. +44 (0) 203 2393022
Skype: carpooling.co.uk

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Coming Up
Contact Us
About Us
Search Archives
Crossword Answers
BHS Sports Schedule
Community Links
The Lighthouse Blog
Local resources for appliance recycling, reuse
Published on Wed, Mar 24, 2010
Read More
With new savings and rebates for energy efficient appliances, there are plenty of incentives to invest in new appliances. But the question still remains, what to do with those old machines?
If you look hard enough you might be able to recycle them and they will likely be reconditioned and find a good home in a household less privileged than yours, or broken down into their reusable parts and used to help rejuvenate other salvageable units.
Bellingham non-profit organization Appliance Depot (formerly ReUse Works) salvages, repairs and resells old appliances. For a small fee, Appliance Depot will pick up your used appliances at the curb and refurbish them to sell at a deep discount. Appliances that are not able to be refurbished are stripped into basic components and recycled.
Curbside pick-up cost is $20 for the first appliance and $5 for each additional appliance plus a $25 freon recycling fee for refrigerators, freezers and air conditioners. Microwaves have an additional $5 toxics recycling fee.
The Appliance Depot is located at 802 Marine Drive in Bellingham and can be reached by calling 527-2646.
Local appliance and furniture store Blaine Marina also picks up old appliances at no cost with purchase of new items.
Blaine Marina Inc. is located on Fisherman's Warf and can be reached by calling 332-8245.
Individuals can also check with their utility, which would like to see you upgrade to a more energy efficient new model – an older fridge uses upwards of three times the energy of most newer models. Utilities in 10 U.S. states and in Ontario, Canada offer some kind of rebate and free pick-up if you do decide you want to upgrade in partnership with a company called Appliance Recycling Centers of America, Inc. (ARCA), which oversees the appliance recycling process. ARCA's system can prevent up to 95 percent of the recyclable materials in old refrigerators and freezers from entering the waste stream.
Check with your utility to see if they participate in ARCA's program or perhaps offer one of their own. For example, Puget Sound Energy works with ARCA to offer customers free pick-up of old appliances for recycling and a $30 rebate on their next bill. One caveat is the appliances must be operational, even if not working at full capacity.
If your utility doesn't participate in ARCA's network or have its own appliance recycling program, maybe your municipality recycles appliances, although it'll likely cost you $30 or more. Some will even send a truck for pickup for an additional fee.
Individuals can also check the non-profit website Earth911.org, a free online database of recyclers for anything imaginable across the U.S. Search for the keyword "appliance" and enter in your zip code. You will likely find more than one option within driving distance, but don't be surprised if, like with a municipality, you have to pay not only to recycle your poor old broken down fridge but also for pickup if you need it.
If the appliance is still working, another alternative would be to donate it to a worthy cause which can either find it a good home with a needy family or sell it and put the proceeds into its programs. The housing non-profit Habitat for Humanity runs Habitat Re-Stores to resell donated goods at 1385 Admiral Place in Ferndale, as well as in 48 U.S. states.
Appliances as well as donated furniture, home accessories and building materials are sold to the general public at a fraction of the retail price to help local affiliates fund the construction of Habitat for Humanity homes within their communities while keeping appliances and other materials out of the waste stream. The Salvation Army, St. Vincent de Paul and the American Council of the Blind also may also take donated appliances.


text:
(Also see my advice on requesting recommendation letters, and Shriram Krishnamurthi's advice to graduate school recommendation letter writers.)
At the beginning of the letter, say how well you know the person, for how long, and how you became acquainted. Also give an overview or summary of your recommendation.
Be specific. Don't just praise the person with generalities (such as "quick learner"), but give specific stories or anecdotes about things the person did to give you that impression. A letter that praises a person without being concrete comes across as a tepid recommendation. Rankings in class are another example of a helpful specific.
Differentiate. Say how this person is unlike other people: his or her specific strengths.
Compare. When writing to someone who shares context with you, name names. ("In the top 5% of the class." is OK, but much better is "Equivalent in promise to my former students Donny Knuth and Al Turing, but a notch below Johnny von Neumann.")
Be plausible. Don't make the person out to be perfect. Often a letter just ignores shortcomings, but then the letter lacks credibility; writing such letters will hurt people you recommend in the future. If the person has shortcomings, admit them or note some ways the person can improve, particularly if the person has started to overcome those problems. Don't make up faults nor magnify real ones.
State your own qualifications. How many other people of the caliber the recommender sees have you yourself seen? (For example, the best student in years at some places might not be appropriate for UW; but someone who got a PhD from UW or another top-10 school, or was at one on sabbatical, carries more weight in a recommendation to UW, because that person's scale has been calibrated.) These qualifications are probably best-suited to a postscript, though oftentimes they are written as the first paragraph to establish credibility.
Justify your recommendations. Don't write a statement like "The applicant is definitely qualified for your institution/award/program" (with "your institution" verbatim as in a form letter, not substituted by an actual name). This weakens rather than strengthens the letter, because the reader will assume that the form letter was sent to many places, and the statement cannot be true of every recipient.
Don't be too brief. One paragraph, or two short paragraphs, is the kiss of death. (If you don't know the student well, and don't have much to say, add a short paragraph explaining what the course is and why it's good that the student excelled in it. This won't fool most people, but will soften the blow of a short letter.) However, don't ramble: make it succinct and to the point. Whoever reads your letter is probably reading hundreds of other letters. If the key points of yours do not pop out, or the reader wearies midway through your letter, then your letter will net be effective.
For situations where the letter has a disproportionate impact (e.g., for faculty applications), or if you are new to recommendation-writing, treat your letter like any other important piece of writing: get feedback from others.
If you are requested to provide a letter in PDF, provide the original PDF that was created by your word processor or typesetting program. Don't scan the document, which makes it much harder to read. No one really cares whether your signature is on the letter, so you can have just a typewritten signature; alternately, you can insert a PDF signature. You don't want eyestrain (or anything else) to lessen the impact of your letter. For similar reasons, don't use "watermark" letterhead that puts a large, dim image (for example, of your university crest or logo) behind your text. You may think this looks cool and sets your letter or institution apart, but in fact it makes your letter harder to read without impressing anyone.
(The Mayfield Handbook is compilation of suggestions and style tips useful for all types of writing. The following is from its "Writing Letters of Recommendation" section.)
Write letters of recommendation to provide relevant information and to present an individual truthfully and positively.
Before writing the letter:
Writing the letter:
Here is a real example of a letter of recommendation that I received for a PhD applicant. An eminent faculty member sent this in response to my request for more information, because the first letter had been content-free. You can see that this letter, though positive on its face, violates nearly every rule about writing a recommendation letter. It saddens me that lack of thoughtfulness on the part of the advisor meant that we had to reject the student's application (though it's possible that the advisor truly thought the student was unworthy and was signaling this obliquely via the letter).
Dear Prof. Ernst: It is my pleasure to write this letter and recommend [omitted], one of my favorite students, for the admission to the Co-PhD Study Program at your laboratory. [omitted] is an enthusiastic and progressive young man with extremely high potentialities. He is not only quick at learning and good at solving complicated problems, but also with a logical and creative mind that enables him to raise some insightful views. I was also deeply impressed with his diligence and outstanding communication ability, compared with my other students. What's more, he is an optimistic man with pleasant personality, and gets along well with all the people around him. I hope he could further broaden his vision and accumulate research and programming experience to get him more fruitful. I believe in your laboratory, which possesses a wonderful research foundation for program analysis and software security, his excellent competence, coupled with your preeminent guidance, will assure him of academic achievements in his future academic pursuits. Thanks for your letter, if you have any other questions, please contact me freely. [Signature]
Back to Advice compiled by Michael Ernst.Michael Ernst


text:
Product Description
Review Options: Sorted by Latest Review | Sort by Best Rating
|Reviews 1 - 15 (212 Reviews Total)
|| Next 15
User Reviews
Date Reviewed: April 16, 2013
Strengths: Frame feels solid/durable (compared to my old diamondback). Works great on smoother trails and packed surfaces. Overall solid feel.
Weaknesses: Not recommended for more bumpy surfaces. Obviously it lacks a full suspension, but for some reason, more so than any other bike I've had, this one really likes to jump up and bite the twig and giggle-berries on less than even surfaces. Rear disc break gives me trouble no matter how I adjust it, but that may be isolated.
Bottom Line:
Date Reviewed: October 11, 2012
Strengths: Frame, fork, pedals, brakes, rear derailleur..
Weaknesses: Seat, hadlebars, front derailleur, tires
Bottom Line:
Expand full review >>
Duration Product Used: 1 year
Price Paid: $420.00
Date Reviewed: July 2, 2011
Strengths: Breaks work very well. Good for first time bikers. Fun on jumps
and bmx tracks. High bars if you think that's good.
Weaknesses: Almost everything. Gears suck. To me it just feels weird. Tires are also horrible. Really heavy. About 30 lbs. Components are bad too.
Bottom Line:
Expand full review >>
Duration Product Used: 2 Years
Price Paid: $400.00
Purchased At: Danville Bikes
Similar Products Used: Trek 3700
Date Reviewed: May 28, 2011
Strengths: This bike is thick and burly. I have had it and been using it for a long time. I use it about 2-3 times a week for minor biking (3-8 miles) to places. I use it about 5-10 times a year for anything remotely called mountain biking, mostly trail rides with some singletrack. When I originally got it, I would say I went out about 30-40 times in that first couple of years.
Weaknesses: The padded breaks are fine, but at some point and time, if I ever really get into mountains, I will have to get disk brakes. I am still running stock on these. The crank is nothing to write home about. I did upgrade to some nicer shifters when I bought the bike. The fork is fine for what I do. I imagine I would like a tighter response on bigger stuff now that I know how forks work.There is some residual bounce after landing bigger jumps which can throw me off on balance, but I haven't had this happen yet.
Bottom Line:
Expand full review >>
Duration Product Used: More than 3 years
Price Paid: $50.00
Purchased At: Harrisonburg, VA Cyc
Similar Products Used: None
Bike Setup: Stock
Date Reviewed: October 5, 2010
Strengths: Frame resistance,
Very good on trails,
Good climber,
Value for money,
A good choice for begginers.
Weaknesses: The seat is way too hard
Tires (kenda)
Could be lighter
The suspension (XCT v2) ok but it could be better.
Bottom Line:
Not excepcionally good, but is not bad. A good chioce for begginers.
Expand full review >>
Bike Setup: Giant Yukon "stock"
Date Reviewed: August 9, 2010
Strengths: frame,brakes,fork,cables,rear derailer,seat,da ho bike
Weaknesses: plastic pedals,front derailer
Bottom Line:
best bike for all around use
Expand full review >>
Duration Product Used: More than 3 years
Price Paid: $675.00
Purchased At: mid pacific wheels
Similar Products Used: au kine goodz
Bike Setup: stock wit shimano 515 calipers,speedometer,replace grips,das au
Date Reviewed: July 24, 2010
Strengths: amazing on uphill climes. Did a 1 in 5 hill easy as. It rocked
Weaknesses: cornering oould have given me more confidence
Bottom Line:
Expand full review >>
Duration Product Used: Less than 1 month
Purchased At: from my friend
Date Reviewed: July 20, 2010
Strengths: Good frame, great tires. Like the disc breaks
Weaknesses: Saddle hurts on long rides. Seat stem doesn't go down far enough. Weak components
Bottom Line:
Expand full review >>
Duration Product Used: 2 Years
Price Paid: $585.00
Purchased At: Big Sky Bike and Fit
Bike Setup: Stock except for grips
Date Reviewed: July 13, 2010
Strengths: Decent bike, light enough. Acceptable entry level disc brakes
Weaknesses: Frame split at lower sway arm, and Giant will not honor the warranty. Shop states bike was "put in a vise and pulled apart." Seriously, who would do that? It has to be a defect, but Giant won't honor it's supposed warranty.
Bottom Line:
Expand full review >>
Price Paid: $755.00
Purchased At: Summit Cycles Columb
Similar Products Used: Ancient Diamond Back early generation aluminum frame....20 plus years old and still a dream.
Bike Setup: Stock
Date Reviewed: May 20, 2010
Strengths: 2009 Yukon...The frame is super solid and I love the Rock Shox Dart 2 fork. I use this bike for both road and trail and I love the lockout on the fork. When riding on flat or climbing hills it is great to be able to just flip the lockout and save some valuable energy. I also like the Shimano Deore rear derailleur. It shifts quick and smooth.
Weaknesses: I find the front derailleur (Shimano Alivio) to be hit and miss. It tends to hang up on shifts and throw the chain off on occasion. It may just need to be tuned up a bit. I also find the saddle a bit uncomfortable, but thats just a personal preference.
Bottom Line:
Expand full review >>
Price Paid: $575.00
Purchased At: The Hardwear Company
Similar Products Used: GT Outpost...
Bike Setup: 2009 Giant Yukon (all stock)--- Rock Shox Dart 2 fork, Hayes MX4 disc brakes, Shimano Alivio front derailleur and shifters, Deore rear derailleur, Kenda K-Rad tires...
Date Reviewed: April 11, 2010
Strengths: Tough as hell, was really happy with my Yukon, used it to commute and cross-country. 2007 Model, good components for a beginner or going pro rider....wont let you down
Weaknesses: When i got myself a Giant XTC2 as my main bike to cross-country, I decided to change everything in my yukon.
(road tyres, seat and shifters) However it became too attractive and some IDIOT stole it :(
Bike is good as is...but if you want to ride hard, you may need to change the front suspension, shifters, cassette and tyres.
Bottom Line:
Expand full review >>
Duration Product Used: 1 Year
Price Paid: $1000.00
Purchased At: Bike shop
Similar Products Used: Giant Alias
Bike Setup: mmm too long to list...check the website. ;)
Date Reviewed: January 29, 2010
Strengths: 1. Not many brands make a 24in size bike which is what I needed.
2. Frame is solid, good construction
3. The Crank is ok. (with a new chainring)
Weaknesses: 1. 550 seems kind of high for a entry level bike with disc brakes.
2. Dart 1 fork is worthless
3. Disc brakes ended up braking about a year into owning the bike.
4. Component group is worthless I bent the middle chainring on my first ride, and it was on a paved trail.
Bottom Line:
I like to compete in entry level mountain bike races and since I am a big dude I do tend to put a lot more stress on the components the other people may. This bike is ok for light mountain biking but you will end up replacing many of the components . The frame is pretty solid though so you cannot go wrong. I am down to the wheels, crank, and frame as my only original parts. I would upgrade more but I am going to wait and buy a 29er.
This is not a bad bike, but I would shop around there are better bikes out there at this price point.
Expand full review >>
Price Paid: $550.00
Purchased At: LBS
Date Reviewed: January 8, 2010
Strengths: Price. I'd like the pedals if they worked right. Brake levers are light, feel great and have stood up to a couple of crashes.
Weaknesses: Lousy quality control and customer service, forks (heavy, little adjustment) and brakes (squeal most of the time once they wear in) will leave you wanting something a little better. Stopping power is plenty for the rear but the front is too weak. Endo's on flat ground are out of the question. The shifters don't tell you what gear you are in which has gotten me in trouble a couple of times.
Bottom Line:
My dealer blew me off so I contacted Giant on their hard-to-find contact web form and got no reply. Good thing I was only after a pair of pedals and not something expensive. I sure hope the frame holds up.
In retrospect, I would have been much better off with a decently specced bike with v-brakes and then upgraded to better discs later. Giant don't have such a thing in their product line which is fine as I won't be buying from them again.
Expand full review >>
Duration Product Used: 3 months
Price Paid: $540.00
Purchased At: Small local bike dea
Bike Setup: Stock 2010
Date Reviewed: October 27, 2009
Strengths: light, good starter bike, brakes good, looks decent.
Weaknesses: tires seem to be poor (do not grip as well I think), shifters could be smoother.
Bottom Line:
Expand full review >>
Duration Product Used: 3 months
Price Paid: $250.00
Purchased At: craigslist seller
Similar Products Used: a walmart special, friend's Specialized FSR
Bike Setup: stock
Date Reviewed: October 2, 2009
Strengths: Smooth shifting, nice ride, strong breaking
Weaknesses: The tires are terrible
Bottom Line:
Expand full review >>
Price Paid: $600.00
Purchased At: Ride Away Bicycles,
Bike Setup: I use the bike like I got it, plus specialized armadillos
|Reviews 1 - 15 (212 Reviews Total)
|| Next 15
Review Options: Sorted by Latest Review | Sort by Best Rating
Related Yukon Forum Posts
Chain Slipping - Giant Yukon
Hey Everyone, Got a quick question for anyone who may have experience with this problem. I have a 2001 Giant Yukon with a Shimano Deore shifter system. All stock parts. Recently, the chain began to slip when I am in the second gear on the front and gears 2-6 on the back. It usually happens when I go ... Read More »
2005 giant reign 2(with mods) vs 2009 giant yukon fx
ok so i'm in looking for a good all mountainbike, something that i can use to go around town but also hit some jumps but mostly hit the trails with. on craigs i found two bikes that interest me, a 2005 giant reign 2 with fox suspesion and and raceface cranks, this bike is for sale for $750. the othe ... Read More »
2012 Giant Yukon FX upgrade advice
I am looking to upgrade the front fork and the wheelset/tires. I'd like to shave a little weight off this bike. Can anyone give me recommendations. I'd like to spend less than 600 total. ThanksRead More »
Yukon FX?
Hey guys, have had my Giant Rincon 2010 small for about 1 1/2 years and I am already way too big for it. I like to ride the road a lot but preferably I ride mountain. The only sub 1000$ bike with full suspension that is decent I've found is the Giant Yukon FX. It retails for about 1050$ but could pr ... Read More »
2011 Giant Yukon FX
Hi, I've been riding my 2011 Giant Yukon fx for a while now. I want to upgrade my suspension. I don't know much about upgrades. I've been looking on craiglist for a used fork and rear shock. Was wondering if this was a good deal, and would this fit my Giant? [url=http://sfbay.craigslist.org/scz/bi ... Read More »


text:
Minneapolis-Cheap but Unique
My husband and I are visting Minneapolis in late February for a wedding. I'm looking for lunch and dinner ideas. I'd love to eat at restaurants that are not too pricey but also unique. Also we hope to try restaurants that most locals would enjoy (not the tourists). Any suggestions would be aprreciated. Thanks ya'll.
You don't say where you're from (in order for us to gauge what kinds of foods might seem common to you) but I think Ngon Bistro (Vietnamese, leaning heavily towards the French...) on University Avenue in St. Paul is pretty unique and very affordable. http://www.ngonbistro.com/ On Wednesday nights, they offer a 3 course meal for two, with a bottle of wine, for $50.
Also, in Minneapolis, if you're looking for cheap and don't mind cafeteria style, there's a good section of cuisines available at Midtown Global Market in Minneapolis. I like the al pastor huaraches at Taqueria Los Ocampo, just about everything at La Sirena Gorda, the tortas at Manny's are pretty good, the triangle meat pies (sambusi?) at Starlight Cafe, the vegetable curry at Safari...lots of choices. http://midtownglobalmarket.org/
Enjoy. Please report back!
re: The Dairy Queen
Kramarczuk's is another place favored by the locals (though, again, it's another "cafeteria style" place) that is very affordable--fantastic sausages, and though I'm no expert, I love their poppyseed and their apricot kolachies. I don't know if that's unique to you: http://www.kramarczuk.com/About/Our%2...
Another unique (for its personality, more than anything--they often have an accordian player upstairs in their little dining room) and affordable spot on University Avenue in St. Paul and open for lunch and Tues-Fri only is Russian Tea House. Family-owned in an old house and with a teensy menu, but with charm to spare. http://citypages.com/databank/22/1071...
Here's an article from a beloved local food critic on her favorite "cheap eats" in the Twin Cities--all of these--Bombay 2 Deli, Shish, Rice Paper, Taqueria La Hacienda, get the chowhound nod, though there are often fistfights on the board over who prefers Punch vs. Pizza Nea. http://articles.citypages.com/2006-12...
In Roseville, a suburb of St. Paul, is a place I love called Maverick's that makes wonderful shaved roast beef and beef brisket sandwiches (great chocolate shakes, too, though their strawberry shakes are to be avoided at all costs). I don't know if it's terribly out of your way or not--it probably would be if you're going to be in Minneapolis proper. They've remodeled since the photos in the link were taken, but the food hasn't changed. http://www.roadfood.com/Reviews/Overv...
Not typically thought of as a "cheap eats" distination, but because I love it so, I'm going to recommend 112 Eatery. http://112eatery.com/menu.htm You'll probably want a reservation (I always have excellent luck for the 5pm on Sunday slot), though you might be able to squeeze in at the bar, particularly for late night dining. Now, you can drop a lot of dough at 112 Eatery, but you don't have to, if you order judiciously. The food tends to be so brilliantly rich that I think it's best shared anyway--even the "small" plates. It doesn't bend them out of shape at all if you plan to share and they happily will split dishes for you. They don't mind if you order only the cheap things either. I've seen entire tables order only the burger and fries there (post Viking's game in their purple gear). When we go, my sweetie and I always split a small order of the stringozzi with lamb sugo ($8) and another entree--maybe the 112 burger ($9) (which is super rich with brie cheese and served on an english muffin) and/or an order of the tagliatelle w/ foie gras meatballs ($12). We always split an order of two sides--usually the cauliflower fritters ($7.50) or the housemade gnocchi ($8). The cold cuts w/ pickles ($9), which is actually an appetizer, is pretty hearty if you wanted to split it. Usually, we're too full for dessert. They will bring you a little parfait dish of housemade caramel popcorn with your check anyway (as well as little dishes of olives and almonds at the commencement of your meal.) Not necessarily an easy menu for vegetarians to navigate, by the way.
There are lots of beloved-by-Chowhounds places along "Eat Street" in Minneapolis, including more or less all of the Vietnamese places Pho Quan, Pho Tau Bay, Quang, and Jasmine Deli http://www.eatstreetminneapolis.com/d... (In the link, chose "restaurants" from the drop down menu for the " business directory category". Wait a second and the names of all the restaurants will come up. Panic not that McDonald's comes up early in the list--it's a shame that it does, but it's not representative of the wide range of chow that's available).
Since it's just the two of you, for breakfast, I'm going to recommend Colossal Cafe in Minneapolis. http://18.104.22.168/search?q=cache:...
Another true neighborhood place, though not basement cheap, but a good value given the high quality of the ingredients is Birchwood Cafe http://www.birchwoodcafe.com
Here's a thread I love called the "cheap fancypants challenge" that might appeal to you http://www.chowhound.com/topics/345700
re: The Dairy Queen
Thank you so much for all of your suggestions. Although we are from South Carolina and we are probably going to freeze our fannies off we are really looking forward to experiencing the different cuisines of Minneapolis.
re: cooper71
Oh, you'll have a grand time, though, yes, it will indeed be cold. My first visit to the Twin Cities--also from a warmer climate--was in January.
Keep in mind that many of these restaurants aren't in the prettiest parts of town, part of what helps them stay affordable, but it's all pretty safe. You wouldn't want to walk alone at night on University Ave or Lake Street, but, given how cold it is, I'm guessing you won't be walking much anyway.
Midtown Global Market has a couple of lots--both to the East (which is covered and sometimes you have to pay, though just a buck or two) and a paved lot to the West (which is often free, but full). If you go to Ngon Bistro (which is lovely inside) you can park free in Phil's lot in the evenings. I love their ginger chicken, their ginger creme brulee, their mong bean cheesecakes, their sweet potato fritter appetizer. And oh! their duck confit appetizer. Dara Moskowitz--a multiple time winner of the James Beard award for food writing--listed their pho as one of her top ten dishes of 2007. The pho is a bit controversial on this board because it's atypical, but I love it.
The Twin Cities have the largest populations of urban Hmong and Somali immigrants in North America--so the Southeast Asian food (mostly represented on the list I gave you by Vietnamese restaurants) is genuinely good here. Also, Safari (both at Midtown Global Market and on Lake Street), Starlight Cafe (at Midtown Global Market) might give you easy exposure to African food, if you haven't tried it before.
You can find Scandinavian treats (ie., lefse, even frozen lutefisk, the stuff you hear Garrison Keillor talk about on Prairie Home Companion) at Cafe Finspang at Midtown Global Market, if that appeals to you and get a sense of this region's Eastern European influences at Kramarczuk's.
Birchwood sources ingredients locally (as does Ngon, when possible).
Goodwill is a place to go if you discover while you're here that you need some warmer casual clothes (coats, sweaters, maybe boots). If you're out and about--dress in layers starting with long underwear--and bring your heaviest boots, hopefully ones with enough room for thick socks. I find if I can keep my extremities warm, I'm fine.
Pho (beef noodle soup) from any of the Vietnamese places I listed would keep you warm, as well as the udon or soba from Tampopo in downtown St. Paul (also focusing on sourcing local ingredients). http://tanpoporestaurant.com/ There's a pay lot near Tampopo--$1 on evening and weekends.
Chowish places to warm up with coffee or tea:
Common Roots Cafe http://www.chowhound.com/topics/419918
Kopplin's coffee on Hamline at Randolph in St. Paul http://www.kopplinscoffee.com/ While you're there, look for this very locally made chocolate "Rogue Chocolatier" http://articles.citypages.com/2007-12...
Finally, Cafe Latte on Grand Avenue at Victoria in St. Paul (look for the parking garage on Victoria--yeah, you'll have to pay, but it's better than a long walk in the snow) is pretty reliable for coffee, tea (even afternoon tea) http://www.cafelatte.com/tea.html#, salads and soups. Their turtle cake is much acclaimed, but, if you're in the neighborhood and you really want a super unique, very local treat, I recommend heading to Bravo! Bakery on Grand Avenue and try a slice their green tea cake (with red bean filling) or creme puffs. http://bravobakery.net/menu.aspx They also have some pretty unique "faux" meat rice dishes on their menu.
Another good soup is the coconut soup at Cafe BonXai on University Ave just West of Snelling in St. Paul (small parking lot in back). http://www.mspmag.com/dining/restaura...
Have fun!
re: The Dairy Queen
I would also add Eat Street. From about 14th to 28th on Nicollet Ave in Minneapolis there are about 40 restaurants. Most are Asian, but there are other great places too.
Quang is my favorite Vietnamese place. Their egg rolls are simply the best, their pho is great, and their bun (vermacelli salads) is great. They are at about 27th.
People really like Jasmine Deli. I think it is a bit Americanized. They do not accept credit cards, so be prepared. It is also Vietnames. Its at about 26th.
Safari, as mentioned above, is Somali. It is good. It is one of the few Somali restaurants where I as a woman feel comfortable. It is also at the MGM if you go there. The restaurant is at about 18th or so?
The Black Forest Inn is a German restaurant that has been around FOREVER. It is at 26th. They have good beer and some nights an accordian player. It is a fun place.
There are a lot of other places up and down the street. Most are good. There is middle eastern, greek, american, japanese, and mexican also.
And, if you are looking for Mexican, head down Lake street. Great stuff there too.
re: churchka
If you're taking votes, I also vote for everything churchka just mentioned, and we're not related or anything.. just some solid listings above in my opinion.
My second choice for cheap but unique is if you're stuck staying near the mall of america you can find some pretty damn cool places in this little strip mall on 494& portland in bloomington, then portland & hwy 62 (aribels).
MGM is the nicest of all these - but I've been to places kinda like this in other cities (our food is better here!!), so I don't know about 'unique'. Go get fish tacos (seafood verde version) from the blinky sign after trying a smaller dish at Safari. You won't be disappointed!
re: reannd
I'm going to respectfully disagree about Midtown Global Market--just to set proper expectations in case the OP or others who stumble on this thread in the future have been to similar markets... While I indeed do love it (and therefore recommended it) and think it's a great place to direct people for variety and general affordability and convenience in terms of it's all-in-oneness, etc., I don't think "our food is better here" compared to other such markets like Reading Terminal in PA or Ferry Plaza in SF or Jean Talon Market in Montreal. Furthermore, while, again, I love Midtown Global Market, I don't think the stands at Midtown Global Market are even as good as the original incarnations of those same eateries outside the market. For instance I think the chow at the other locations of Manny's are better, the chow at the other La Loma (in Mercado Central) is better, and so on.
But the chow is very good and, for convenience, it can't be beat. Also, I like the public art there. In fact, overall, it just has a nice "public space" kind of vibe, with clean bathrooms and even an ATM machine. EDIT: and, it's all indoors, for those who want to stay out of the cold in winter or the heat in summer.
re: The Dairy Queen
Hey no prob w.the disagreement. I guess I meant MGM was the 'nicest' w.repsect to 'looking' compared to the other places making ya drive down snowy streets. I think the places inside the MGM are samples of some of the most interesting food stops in town, not just random places that wanted a new location. I do wish there was more than just the one Vietnamese, though.. or at least one w.a big noodle soup bar.. like Pagoda (I haven't even been there yet, but I think a place like that would do well).
Our food is better here compared to one I went to in DC somewhere and another in Columbus. =) (I was tryin to make us sound good!!). Never been to the places you listed !
re: reannd
I've never been to the ones in DC or Columbus, so, maybe between the two of us we've got them all covered!
But, I TOTALLY agree with you about the relative "accessibility" of Midtown Global Market for Twin Cities visitors looking to avoid some of the weather issues (such as having to climb over big burms of snow in your inadequate shoes after you've parallel parked on the street)---first, it has parking. In contrast, I love Mercado Central on Lake St. several blocks East of Midtown Global Market, but didn't recommend it because parking is a real hassle there. Also, while I think we have very good Mexican chow in the Twin Cities (and a genuinely thriving Latin American community), I don't think it's something we do especially well compared to other places (though, I'm don't know about South Carolina where the OP is coming from). (Southeast Asian, on the other hand, I think is something pretty special here--other Asian, while, yes, we've got some great stuff, it isn't our particular specialty.)
Ngon Bistro has parking, the setting is lovely (though the neighborhood ain't so glam), it's very affordable, delicious, and I've never really been to a place like it either in the Twin Cities or elsewhere. I just think it's really lovely and special.
Black Forest as mentioned by Churchka also has a parking lot and is a reasonable entree into German food if you haven't tried it before. The menu can be hit or miss, but I love their red cabbage and had a wonderful rabbit dish there once. It's especially lovely in summer on their outdoor patio with the fountain, but, that's not much help now! I don't think of it as especially "cheap" though--really, more of a moderately-priced place.
There's a pay lot across the street from 112 Eatery.
Taqueria La Hacienda on Lake Street used to have a glorious lot but last time I drove by there someone was doing some construction that seemed to eat most of the lot.
Russian Tea House has a lot.
I agree with you that I wish that Midtown Global Market had more Southeast Asian places. I also mourn the passing of Birchberry, the Native American shop there. Even though it wasn't a restaurant, I liked their cookbooks and thought it was a great source of handharvested wild rice.
re: churchka
Great point about going down Lake Street for Mexican. One place that is a little cheaper than the Midtown Global Market and much more unique is Mercado Central. Parking and seating can be a bit of a challenge, but the food and atmosphere are authentic. The MGM is easier to park at and much easier to move around, but Mercado Central has a much more authentic feel.
re: churchka
I believe you're thinking of Singapore! on 55th St. in far south Minneapolis, which for some time was an Ethiopian / Malaysian fusion restaurant (doesn't get any stranger, does it?) I went there back in June, expecting this, but was a bit dismayed to learn that the Ethiopian chef had left! Whatever the case, the Malaysian food on the menu was good.
re: tvdxer
The former Singapore! chef, Tee Belachew, has opened his own place in midtown: T's Place. I haven't been, but it's getting some raves in this thread:
T's Place
2713 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55406
La Hacienda in the Sibley Plaza strip mall in St. Paul may not have a chic or classy ambiance, but the food is great, the prices are low, and the menu is interesting to say the least (separate Mexican, Salvadoran, Peruvian, American, and Mediterranean sections). Do what I did and try the pupusas or the traditional Salvadoran shredded beef and egg dish, "Carne desfilada". Muy rica! The sauce that comes with the courtesy nachos they bring out before you order is really good too. And did I mention they're cheap?
Bombay 2 Deli in NE Minneapolis, also mentioned here, is very, very good, even cheaper, and quite unique in that it is an Indian snack bar. Their "menu" contains both common and hard-to-find Indian snacks (I strongly suggest visiting on the weekend when they have their samosa chaat available), as well as a few curries (two curries + rice / bread for $5.49). And the lady at the desk you order your food from is terribly sweet.
If you're looking for a very unique cultural experience, try the Hmong International Market's (in St. Paul's) food court. If you're not Asian, you'll definitely stick out, but it's a very interesting and cool place with a lot of vendors serving apparently very authentic SE Asian food, particularly Hmong, which is difficult to find elsewhere.
There is also a large Somali population here. There are several Somali establishments along Lake St., but you might not feel comfortable as a couple there, because women tend to sit in a separate seating area. One that's more accustomed to a non-Somali clientele is Safari, located on "Eat Street" (Nicollet Ave), and also with a "fast-food" outlet in the aformentioned Midtown Global Market.
I wasn't too amazed by the food, but a truly unique restaurant cuisine-was is Babani's in Downtown St. Paul. They serve Kurdish food. Get the dowjic soup, whatever you do.
I don't know what you have for transportation, but if you have a car and wouldn't mind driving a short distance into the suburbs, there's a Guyanese restaurant in Richfield, "Aribel's", that many here have raved about. Again, very unique.
re: tvdxer
I've heard that Babani's is the only Kurdish restaurant in the U.S.--I don't really know if that's true, but it' s cool to say, isn't it? That said, I've only been to their outpost on West 7th in St. Paul and really do not recommend it, I'm afraid. I understand their other location is the one tvdxer visited the time he visited and reported on it. Perhaps it's better, but I'm afraid my experience at the West 7th location really turned me off.
La Hacienda--while it does indeed offer all this big variety of Latin American cuisines, it doesn't necessarily in my opinion represent all of them--or even any of them-- particularly well. But, it is cheap. And has parking. And is yummy enough even if not "best of breed." And is friendly.
I do love the Hmong Market food court (and it has parking), if you're in for a real cultural experience (it really does feel just like some markets in Asia) and don't mind that the surroundings are very very plain and frankly overly-worn. Here's a post about it, with photos: http://www.chowhound.com/topics/318303 There is a new location opening nearby very soon (in fact, it has already opened , but I guess not all the vendors are in) that sounds like it's going to be fantastic and lots of the vendors from the "old Hmong" market are moving in there--don't know if they're closing up their stands in the old location. I'm kind of holding out for that before I send people to the older Hmong Market because I'm not sure what its status will be by late February. Here's a blurb about it that appeared in the PiPress recently http://www.twincities.com/restaurants... (I was sort of holding off posting about Golden Globe International since another 'hound actually tipped me off to it --even before it appeared in the PiPress--and, I was hoping, would post about it to further enhance his already extensive chow creds. But since it came up...).
EDIT: P.S. I don't mean to be so contrary today. Maybe I'll be less contrary "next year." :) Happy New Year, everyone.
re: The Dairy Queen
Just to clarify on the Babani's "outpost" issue, the W 7th shop (I think it's called Babani's express) has a very different menu and the quality doesn't come close to the main restaurant.
Not to say that I think the main Babani's is super-standout, but it's quite pleasant, while Babani's express has been consistently disappointing.
re: diesel
i'd describe the main restaurant as very homestyle, okay-to-very-good food & unpretentious surroundings. nice friendly service and homey atmosphere. some craveable menu gems, a little hit & miss, a great low-key option if you live in/around st. paul or are in the area, decent ingredients, not expensive. while babani's *almost* gets there as a local gem it's a little bit of a stretch to rec that anybody drives across town for the food, imo. heard some ick stories about the w 7th location & it looks like they cater to the sports center crowd, so i have avoided it.
re: diesel
Very good to clarify! As a former St. Paulite, Babani's express is strictly for a gyro, fries and coke. The restaurant is unique, but if you are only in town for the weekend, I'm not sure if that is where I would go.
Here are my suggestions:
Get a Juicy Lucy at Matt's Bar at 38th and Cedar. My brothers-in-law from San Francisco have marked this as a must-stop when they are back in town for the holidays - they have joked about starting their own little bar which serves the same.
If you are on the St. Paul side I'd try one of the great Vietnamese restaurants on University mentioned in this thread already -- for Chinese I really like Little Scezchuan which is on the same strip as the Vietnamese places (Western and University).
In Minneapolis, MGM is a fantastic place to spend an afternoon sampling a lot of great food - highly recommended.
If in Downtown Mpls, 112 Eatery is a little pricy for your request, but worth every penny - I'd make reservations now though! The same said for Luci (not Luci Ancora) in St. Paul -- best food I've ever eaten at a restaurant with a Pabst Blue Ribbon sign outside.
The Eat Street suggestions are dead on as well.
re: The Dairy Queen
Somebody else here said the Babani's on W 7th was a fast-food type outlet - is it still around? I've only heard about it here. The main course I ordered at their downtown location (kubay sawar, if I remember correctly) wasn't anything special (though not at all bad), but the fact that it's a Kurdish restaurant automatically drives it up on the "uniqueness" scale.
Yup, I think I remember you made a report about the "taco crawl" you went on, and that alone probably makes you more qualified to speak of Mexican food than me :). After all, I can't even say I've had huarache or pozole :( As for Salvadoran, the only time I ever had it was at La Hacienda - but I was simply blown away by what I ordered (carne desfilada and cheese / bean pupusa). So much good food at a fairly low price. Maybe their dishes really vary - I wonder what ethnicity the owners or chefs are.
re: tvdxer
Babani's on W 7th isn't a fast food outlet as much as it's just a small restaurant that as soupkitten mentions above caters more to the Xcel arena crowd. I haven't been there since my dreadful experience but it was certainly there last time I drove past--maybe a month ago?
Oh, now I remember why I popped into this thread this morning until I got distracted (darn head cold--I'd forget my head if it weren't actually attached and, frankly, as lousy as I feel that wouldn't be such a bad thing right now...)
But, 20.21 (the fancy Wolfgang Puck restaurant in the Walker Art Center) apparently offers a prix menu on Thursday nights for $20.21 in the lounge and bar. That also entitles you to free admission to the Frida Kahlo exhibit. If you don't know of the Walker it is a world-class contemporary art museum (the outdoor sculpture garden is a must-see, even in winter, with it's lovely Minneapolis skyline backdrop)--one of the crown jewels of the Twin Cities, in my opinion. Three courses with two choices for each course.
Apparently, the prix fixe deal (excluding admission to the Kahlo exhibit) is offered Tuesday thru Sat, bar & lounge only, first come first served only, no reservations accepted.
This deal isn't mentioned on their website and I haven't tried this menu for myself, but it might be worth investigating. http://info.walkerart.org/visit/dinin...
Now, here's the thing, this may or may not be that unique to you. Puck has jammed a restaurant in multiple museums around the U.S. and has lots of non-museum restaurants scattered about, too--so, is it really that unique? It's "Asian inspired" California cuisine, for what it's worth--not particularly Minnesotan (although, we do seem to have a lot of independently owned Asian fusion restaurants here. Because of our Southeast Asian influence? Or just a decade late on the trend? Not sure).
Personally, I've only been to 20.21 for the brunch buffet and while pretty good, I'm not sure it was SO much better than your average brunch buffet to justify the price premium. (Although, I will say, I thought the smoked salmon pizza that they brought to our table was fantastic. I hate to be such a sucker, but those pizzas are Pucky's specialties, ya know? It was good.) But, 3 courses for $20.21? Well, that's a good deal if the food is still good and the setting is, like I said, a world class art museum.
But, there ya go. One more option, especially if you want to feel really urbane.
re: The Dairy Queen
can anyone confirm the $20.21 meal at 20:21? I've heard about it too but I believe it to be hearsay. I'd love to check it out as it sounds like a fabulous deal.
re: babaoriley7
Goodness--I'd be very surprised if Kathie Jenkins put "hearsay" in her Pioneer Press column, a link to which I provided in my post above. She says she ate there... Nevertheless, I just called the restaurant and was able to confirm with the gentleman who answered that this $20.21 prix fixe menu is available in the BAR and in the LOUNGE (NOT the restaurant itself) 5:30 to close Tues-Sat. I asked if it was a temporary or seasonal thing and he said no, that it used to be just their happy hour, which they've expanded to include this prix fixe thing.
re: The Dairy Queen
It certainly sounds like a good source! I had heard from message boards and the like and wasn't sure if it was legit. Thanks for checking it out.
Now, when to go!??
re: babaoriley7
I can confirm . I have had it twice while sitting at the bar. The first time was a fennel and noodle "Honk Kong Style" salad, fatty pork belly and loin, and an outstanding creme custard with berries for dessert. All in all worth the $20. The second time was a forgettable salad as I can't remember what it was, grilled ling cod with lemongrass and another great napoleon dessert. I was less impressed on this occasion but still worth $20.
If you feel like breakfast for lunch (eggs benedict, anyone?), I recommend Al's Breakfast in Dinkytown. It's cheap, and it's certainly unique - more "breakfast theater" than a restaurant. It's tiny (a narrow 13-seat diner) and always crowded, so expect a wait, and don't go with more than two people.
I love this place, especially for the wally blues (blueberry walnut pancakes), hash browns, and the aforementioned eggs bennie.
re: AnneInMpls
Al's, how could we forget! t's a Minneapolis institution that won a James Beard "American Classics" award a few years back. It absolutely belongs on any list of cheap, unique (for it's atmosphere), and delicious. Thank goodness Anne popped into this thread!
I second the suggestion for a Jucy Lucy, but I think the best one in town is at the Nook in St. Paul. Another thing that's appartently unique in Minnesota is deep fried cheese curds. I thought that Wisconsin invented these, but my boyfriend, from Wisconsin, said he never realized you could deep fry cheese until he moved to Minnesota. One more reason we're better than Wisconsin, I say. :) The Nook has good cheese curds too(must eat with a side of ranch dressing), but that may be a lot of cheese for one meal. The cheese curds at the Town Talk Diner are also great, and a little more gourmet.
re: Loren3
I don't think I saw this one. Kabobs off of 494 in Bloomington. Huge portions, cheap, and most importantly....Good. It is Northern Indian....definitely not vegeterian. Try the Samosas, Chicken 65, and the Kabobs. you won't be dissapointed.
I'm shocked, SHOCKED I tell you, to see how far this thread got before someone mentioned the Lucy. It doesn't get much more Minnesohta than the Lucy!
I'm another fan of the version at the Nook. The Vincent Burger, served at Vincent in downtown Minneapolis, (Nicollet and 11th, I believe) is like God's Own Jucy Lucy, and the bar food at Vincent is a great grand value at happy hour. MMmm, chickpea fries....
It is also one of the few places that I've found in Minnesota that knows that a Sidecar is most definitely NOT a 'brandy Margarita'.
I'd also recommend Uncle Franky's in the cheep category. Good dogs, good Italian beef. Go near the end of the lunch rush, as it can get thronged.
And as you may have gleaned, we do SE Asian very well, here. One of my faves is Pho 79, but I have only been to the Saint Paul branch at Raymond and Energy Park.
bon appetit, and safe travels.
Uncle Franky's
728 Broadway St NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413
re: ajs
I find The Vincent Burger to be an over priced pretentious pile of horse manure. $13.00 for a burger on any budget is everything that is wrong with the dinning scene in Minneapolis today. And Gouda Cheese on a hamburger, clearly the chef at Vincent has a hard on for Chef Daniel Boulud.
re: EricShawnSmith
re: EricShawnSmith
hmm. i thought it was $8. maybe that's the happy hour price, but i remember thinking "how the hell can he make his downtown margins on that-- must sell lots of cocktails, i guess."
msp being awash in really great locally produced cheeses would be my guess about the gouda choice. a lot of local folks are working them into the menu wherever they can.
i haven't had the pleasure of the vincent burger, so i can't say whether it's splendid or overpriced at $8, or $13, or whatever. i suppose it would depend if it came with frites or not ;)
re: soupkitten
It's $8 at happy hour and more at the rest of the day. The Vincent burger is more than just hamburger -- it's got braised short ribs as well as hamburger meat. And the gouda is smoked which, to my taste adds a lot to the sandwich. I don't think that the addition of the gouda is pretention as much as looking for the smoky flavor.
It's definitely worth $8 - not as sure about $13.
re: EricShawnSmith
Are you going to go confiscate their Miller High Life???
re: MSPD
Ha that totally made me laugh out loud. Not trying to rip on Vincent or anything like that I was just taking a friendly jab at the fact that they are trying to sell "Hamburgers" for 13 bucks which is IMO laughable. Now if you throw short ribs into the equasion then maybe they shouldn't call it a hamburger at all. And as far as Champp's and Ruby Tuesday's goes shame on them too. I guess it is just a personal preference that i will never again pay over nine smackers for a burger. You can pile it as high as you want with this or that fancy bollocks and that is when to me it is just a chef waving his willy about.
re: EricShawnSmith
Disagree. Love the Vincent burger. And even at the non-HH $13 I'd still buy it. You can buy a burger at Ruby Tuesday for $9. Champp's and TGIF aren't far behind. For only $4 more than those places, you get a far superior meat, bun, and fries. And the "chain burgers" aren't stuffed with gouda and braised spare ribs. I love the regular jucy lucy, but the spare ribs in the Vincent burger really make this burger over-the-top decadent. Maybe he chose gouda because the flavor pairs better with the spare ribs? I don't think the center would taste as good with cheddar, swiss, or American (the three other most common fillings).
re: drew13000
Totally agree Drew. The burger and his happy hour are great values.
re: NordeastB
I cannot begin to say thank you to every one who has answered my post. We will get back from our trip around March 2nd and I will report back with my findings. One last question. I love sandwiches (not burgers, although I do like them) please tell me the best sandwich places in downtown Minneapolis. Once again thank ya'll so much. I truly appreciate it.
re: cooper71
I'd put in my two cents for Brothers Deli (in the "Dorsey" building at 6th and Nicollet on the skyway level) and Ike's (on 6th between Hennepin and Nicollet) as the best non-chain sandwich places in the central business district. Brother's tries to be a traditional NYC deli - it's good but it's not the real deal. Ike's is probably better known for its burgers but it has good sliced meat sandwiches as well. A sandwich at Ike's will be a few bucks more than at Brother's.
I've never been, but there were raves for Be'wiched, which is right outside of downtown. Here's more discussion on the place: http://www.chowhound.com/topics/446992
Brothers Deli
50 S 6th St, Minneapolis, MN 55402
Ike's Food & Cocktails
50 South Sixth Street, Minneapolis, MN 55402
Bewiched Deli
800 Washington Ave N, Minneapolis, MN 55401
re: cooper71
As bob_s mentioned, I think you would enjoy Be'wiched. It's a long, slushy walk from the heart of downtown (or a very short drive with easy meter parking out front) but it's worth it. I have been back there numerous times since the posts in the thread bob linked.
Not a restaurant per se, but a fun outing for a sandwich (and sampling of other stuff) would be Surdyk's, a large wine shop with cheese and deli attached. They have soups, salads, panini and other daily items. The surrounding neighborhood, just across the bridge from the north end of downtown is pleasant (same area as Kramarczuk's and Pizza Nea which should be on your list for cheap and unique).
re: cooper71
I love Mexican Sandwiches called Tortas. Manny's has excellent ones. They have either two or three locations, including in the Midtown Market and on Lake Street and 27th. Try the cubano, it is great.
Other good places for tortas include Pineda Tacos and La Taqueria La Hacienda.


text:
Definition of olfactory in English:
olfactorySyllabification: ol·fac·to·ry
Pronunciation: /älˈfakt(ə)rē, ōl- /
Of or relating to the sense of smell: the olfactory organs
More example sentences
- The molecules diffuse through the surface layer of mucus and stimulate the olfactory receptors.
- It was one of the sweetest smells their olfactory organs had ever encountered.
- The olfactory organ is located in the mucous membrane lining the uppermost part of the roof of the nasal cavity.
mid 17th century: from Latin olfactare (frequentative of olfacere 'to smell') + -ory2.
Definition of olfactory in:
- The British & World English dictionary
Get more from Oxford Dictionaries
Subscribe to remove adverts and access premium resources
Word of the day hypnopompic
Pronunciation: ˌhɪpnə(ʊ)ˈpɒmpɪk
relating to the state immediately preceding waking up


text:
magnesium processing
Comprehensive and up-to-date information on many aspects of metallurgy, individual metals, and alloys can be found in convenient reference-form arrangement in the following works: Metals Handbook, 9th ed., 17 vol. (1978–89), a massive and detailed source prepared under the direction of the American Society for Metals, with a 10th edition that began publication in 1990; Herman F. Mark et al. (eds.), Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology, 3rd ed., 31 vol. (1978–84), formerly known as Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology, with a 4th edition begun in 1991; and its European counterpart, the first English-language edition of a monumental German work, Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry, 5th, completely rev. ed., edited by Wolfgang Gerhartz et al. (1985– ).
Nils Høy-Petersen, "From Past to Future," Light Metal Age, 48(7–8):12, 14–16 (August 1990), is a review of magnesium history. A comprehensive book on magnesium properties, alloys, and uses, with a condensed chapter on extraction technologies, is E.F. Emley, Principles of Magnesium Technology (1966). The best overview of current extraction methods is Nils Høy-Petersen et al., "Magnesium," in Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry, 5th ed., vol. A15 (1990), pp. 559–580. Robert S. Busk, Magnesium Products Design (1987), is a thorough work on magnesium design criteria. Kh. L. Strelets, Electrolytic Production of Magnesium, trans. from Russian (1977), is a reference book on the subject.


text:
"Thank you for giving me the wonderful opportunity to Volunteer. It was wonderful, positive experience and I enjoyed it immensely. I gave directions, took photographs, helped people find their loved ones, helped them put their clothes on, comforted the emotional and even meet people from my home town of Cork City, Ireland. If I'm not running myself next year I will be back to Volunteer again!" - Jackie Magner, 2011 Boston Marathon Family Reunion Volunteer
"Yesterday was one of the greatest days of my life, and the marathon event was only accentuated with the incredible support and assistance of the volunteers. Just the way they looked you in the eye and made the experience personal, and showed that they cared and were there to help. I left Boston feeling so great about the goodness of people that I know I will be back just to share in that magic again! Thanks to all for everything!" - John Manion, 2010 Boston Marathon Finisher
"It was wonderful to volunteer at the event. I volunteered in the Athletes Village and as the runners were heading to the starting line they were all thanking us for being there to help them. That made it all worthwhile, even in the cold of a 5:30 beginning hour. I'll be there again to volunteer next year." - Deb Roussell, 2010 Boston Marathon Athletes Village Volunteer
"Thank you for allowing volunteers to help out the runners and their families. Working the marathon for the past three years has been a special event for me. The runners are very excited to run; anything people can do to help them is a blessing. I'm looking forward to the Half-Marathon later this year. Again, thank you from the bottom of my heart for allowing myself and others to spend their time to help others." - Jenn Merzon, 2010 Boston Marathon adidas/B.A.A. Merchandise Sales Volunteer
"For the past eight years I have been a bus greeter on race morning in Hopkinton. That is the place to be for greeting all the runners coming off the bus, seeing all my running partners from our running club in CT (Mohegan Striders), and answering all their questions and making sure thet get to the start line in time. That is where I want to be on race morning!" - Glenn Costello, Boston Marathon Volunteer since 2004"I wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed volunteering at the B.A.A. 5K. It was exciting to be there and everything went very well. The other volunteers were terrific and every race competitor was polite and thanked us for being there. I would enjoy helping with this event again next year." - Carol Kuo, 21 year Boston Marathon Volunteer and 2014 5K Volunteer"This was one of the best things I have ever done. Loved every minute. Plan to do it in years to come." - Patty Casella, 2014 Boston Marathon Parking Volunteer
"You are so organized and your attention to detail is unsurpassed." - Christine, 2014 Boston Marathon Volunteer
"I'm continuously impressed with the level of communication, training, appreciation and seamless registration process." - Chandra Leister, Maine Track Club, 2014 Boston Marathon Volunteer
"We were very impressed on how everything came together. It was a humbling experience to be a small part of something very big." - Tim Vogelzang, 2014 Boston Marathon Volunteer
"I would be remiss not to mention all those FANTASTIC volunteers!!! They are what make Boston a world-class event! Thank you, again!!!!!" - Diana Babor, 2014 Boston Marathon Race Participent
"Volunteering at the Marathon was a WONDERFUL experience, and I can't wait to sign up again for next year! It was so well organized and everyone was just plain glad to be there. Thank you for all of your work putting it together!" - Kathy Pawley, 2014 Boston Marathon Volunteer
"What a great year! I have had the pleasure of running the marathon twice in past years and the honor of volunteering for the past two years. I am very impressed with the way you and your team orchestrate and manage the volunteer aspect. Keeping us updated and offering the supportive services were enormously valuable and appreciated." - 2014 Boston Marathon Volunteer
"It was an amazing experience and I am just so grateful for the privilege." - Alex Carleton, Bib Checker, 2014 Boston Marathon Volunteer
"It was an honor and a privilege for me to volunteer for the 2014 Boston Marathon, thank you for accepting my application to volunteer. I do intend in the future to apply for other B.A.A. events." - Barry E Ashton, 2014 Boston Marathon Volunteer
"Thank you to you and your team for a great day!! You and your team make the day very enjoyable from the information you provide to the support that is offered. Thank you again and I look forward to seeing you again next year." - Sgt. Darren Weisse, Tufts University Police, 2014 Boston Marathon Volunteer
"Looking forward to next year and so thrilled to be part of such an honorable sporting tradition. Thank you." - 2014 Boston Marathon Volunteer
"I thoroughly enjoyed helping out at mile 14 and would love to do it again next year. It was a long, tiring day that was very much an awesome, rewarding experience. The managers for the team were great to work with." - Nate, 2014 Boston Marathon Volunteer
"Thank you for allowing me to share in the BAA Marathon experience. I was, and still am, amazed at the organizational skills of the BAA organizers and I am already, very much, looking forward to volunteering again for next year's Marathon. It was a wonderful experience." - Jim McGuiness, 2014 Boston Marathon Volunteer
"Thank you!!!! It was AWESOME!!! Hard work BUT so worth it!!!!" - Joan Crane RN, 2014 Boston Marathon Volunteer
"It was a great experience and an indescribable experience that I am so grateful for." - Karen Kiczek, 2014 Boston Marathon Volunteer
"It was an honor and a privilege to volunteer for these tremendous athletes! Thank you for the opportunity!" - 2014 Boston Marathon Volunteer
"It was so meaningful to volunteer for the marathon! I will be back next year and the year after that and the year after that! Thanks for the opportunity." - M'Shell Patterson, 2014 Boston Marathon Volunteer
"What a special day! Thank you so much for allowing me to celebrate with everyone. I was overwhelmed by the joy present. Thank You....looking forward to volunteering next year wherever you need me. Go Boston....Yay Boston Athletic Association....thank you!" - 2014 Boston Marathon Volunteer
"WHAT A GREAT EVENT TO HAVE BEEN ABLE TO VOLUNTEER FOR!" - 2014 Boston Marathon Volunteer
1994 - Uta Pippig
Uta Pippig of Germany won the first of her three consecutive victories in 1994, winning in course record time.


text:
MADISON, WI (WSAU) Bobbie Kelsey will begin her second season as the Wisconsin women's basketball coach tonight, when the Badgers host U-W La Crosse in an exhibition game. Wisconsin went 9-and-20 a year ago. Kelsey says things have been more relaxed this time, mainly because the coach and the players know more about what to expect from each other.
Wisconsin has two exhibition games against Division-Three schools – and Kelsey says she'll use them to test different lineup combinations while trying to get the offense into a rhythm.
The Badgers have five freshmen on their squad. Their opponent tonight, La Crosse, return five players from a team that went 16-and-10 a year ago.


text:
MINNEAPOLIS, MN (WSAU) Fans heading to Minneapolis for Sunday's Packer-Viking game are being told to watch for counterfeit tickets. The regular season finale has playoff ramifications for both teams – and Vikings' officials say lots of tickets will be sold over the Internet and outside the Metrodome on Game-Day.
The Vikings urge fans to use common sense, and check whether the Packers have returned any of their tickets. Only the Vikings' ticket office, Ticketmaster, and the N-F-L Ticket Exchange can guarantee valid online tickets.
The cheapest price on the Ticket Exchange this morning was 190-dollars for a single nosebleed seat. The cheapest pair was 248-dollars each. On Stub-Hub, the cheapest pair ran for 240-each.
The Vikings say any fans caught inside with fake tickets will be asked to leave – and they could get arrested.


text:
"Prophet" and "healer" TB Joshua is back in the news. While his world seems to be crashing down around him, he skirts trouble. Ill South Africans flock to Lagos 'prophet' – Africa | IOL News | IOL.co.za. South Africans have been flocking to The Synagogue, Church of All Nations, in Lagos, for many years, hoping for…
Hauntings & Ghosts, Paranormal
Indian lawyers convinced their local court house is haunted
by Torkel Ødegård • • 6 Comments
If it's such a haunted place, why do we have the same low-quality evidence that is only convincing to believers? This is another example of believing is seeing. Lawyers, staff in Delhi's Karkardooma court complex convinced that it's haunted. The usual cacophony of lawyers, petitioners and visitors at the Karkardooma Court Complex has of late…
Anti-vax, Antiscience
Vaccine sabotage suspected in childrens' deaths in Syria (UPDATE: Not Sabotage)
by Sharon Hill • • 3 Comments
A devastating setback to the fight against the measles epidemic in Syria. At least 34 Syrian children die from contaminated measles vaccine | The Guardian. At least 34 children have died in rebel-held Syria after being injected with contaminated measles vaccines, the rebel government said on Tuesday, warning that the deaths might be caused by…
Church devastated by Ebola as cultural practices aid the spread
by Sharon Hill • • 5 Comments
This is terrible. Her friends kept telling her to stop touching the sick. Liberia Diary: In Time of Ebola, a Town Loses Its 'Prayer Warrior' – Dispatch – WSJ. (Note that WSJ articles may go behind a paywall after a short time.) "Sis" Jartu Kerkulah was the praise-and-worship leader at the Bethel Heart of Faith…
Leftover links
The Strange remains the same for 16 September 2014
by Sharon Hill • • 3 Comments
Man-eating leopard attacks drunks heading home at night – NY Daily News. Brooklyn Mother Says Rat Bit Young Son While He Slept | NBC New York. The Strange, True Tale of the Old-Timey Goat Testicle-Implanting Governor – The Daily Beast. Dozens sign up to discuss social studies textbooks – Houston Chronicle. Orthorexia eating disorder on…
Four year old girl found sleepwalking several miles from home
by Torkel Ødegård • • 1 Comment
She was very fortunate not to get hurt. Norway: Four-year-old sleepwalks 5km to nearby town. A four-year-old Norwegian girl has terrified her family by sleepwalking over 5km (3 miles) to a nearby town on a stormy night, wearing just her underwear and a pair of thin boots. Police found the girl unharmed in the town…
Suicide via crocodile
by Torkel Ødegård • • 5 Comments
Wow. What a way to go. Thailand woman dead after jumping into crocodile pit. A 65-year-old woman from Bangkok has killed herself by jumping into a pit of crocodiles at a reptile farm near the capital, police say. Witnesses saw Wanpen Inyai jumping into a pond at Samut Prakarn Crocodile Farm and Zoo on Friday,…
Leftover links
The Strange remains the same for 15 September 2014
by Sharon Hill • • 1 Comment
Bigfoot hoax ruined my life, says Australian man. That's what you get from trusting Rick Dyer, professional hoaxer. Mindscapes: Living with neurological mysteries – New Scientist. 'Slender Man' Judge Says 'Reason to Doubt' Girl's Competency for Trial – ABC News. snopes.com: Mutant Spiders in Missouri.
Alternative Medicine, Consumer products
UK man fined for selling colloidal silver as cancer cure
by Sharon Hill • • 2 Comments
Guy Chapman reports from the U.K. : A West Mersea man was fined £750 and £1,500 costs after pleading guilty to promoting colloidal silver as a cancer cure. He follows Stephen Ferguson and Errol Denton, live blood practitioners and acolytes of Robert O. Young, who is currently on trial for practising medicine without a license. Man…
Belief/Superstition, Events, Psychics
Norwegian Princess Märtha Louise still sells the woo!
by Torkel Ødegård • • 4 Comments
Norwegian Princess Märtha Louise is still peddling her woo beliefs and this time she got star power help too! Popular self proclaimed psychic Lisa Williams, whom we have mentioned on this site before, held a seminar with her royal highness in Oslo last night. And talking to the dead ain't cheap. The tickets were 1540…
Critical thinking, Discoveries, Evolution, Media, Science
Spinosaurus appears to have been toothy and semi-aquatic; but don't call it a crocoduck
by Sharon Hill • • 10 Comments
Previously-known Spinosaurus was a dinosaur that blew my mind. I couldn't figure out the deal with the sail and the ultra-long snout. Turns out it had more surprises in store. Scientists report first semiaquatic dinosaur, Spinosaurus: Massive predator was more than 9 feet longer than largest T. rex — ScienceDaily. Scientists today unveiled what appears…
Anomalies, Natural disasters
Earthquake hits Norway and Sweden
by Torkel Ødegård • • 3 Comments
An earthquake measured to 4.7 magnitude (according to Google Alerts) hit Norway and Sweden at little over 3 PM local time. Some places has it recorded as low as 4.2, while others apparently have it recorded as high as 4.9. The epicenter of the earthquake according Google Alerts was near Älvdalen in Sweden but caused tremors…
Alternative Medicine, Pseudoscience
Homeopaths get professional accreditation in UK – PSA gets a FAIL
by Sharon Hill • • 7 Comments
In other words, the foxes guard the henhouse. This is a terrible and stupid idea that opens the door to tacitly endorsed quackery. Independent quality mark for homeopaths. The Society of Homeopaths' voluntary register has been accredited under a new scheme set up by the Department of Health and administered by an independent body, the…
U.K. community organizes force to tackle organized faith healing scammers
by Sharon Hill • • 0 Comments
A police team in Leiceister, England has formed to address what appears to be large-scale fraud connected to faith healing. Police to lift lid on murky world of bogus faith healers who promise cures for huge sums of money. Police hope to lift the lid on the murky world of 'faith healers' who promise cures…
Alternative Medicine
Chinese pharmacies take significant step to end bear bile farming
by Sharon Hill • • 1 Comment
Excellent news as the tide is really turning on supplying bear bile products that cause terrible harm to wild bears. Thousands of Chinese pharmacies reject bear bile products. Animals Asia has announced that over 1,900 Chinese pharmacies have joined its Healing Without Harm programme – pledging to turn their backs on bear bile products. The…
River woes as mystery spills pollute water
by Sharon Hill • • 2 Comments
A giant wave of foam overtakes the River Lea in London while unidentified brown "gunk" affects an Ohio river making locals nervous. A wall of suds appeared on the River Lea. Authorities have not been able to figure out how it developed. Huge mass of foam floats down River Lea in north-east London – News…
Pseudoscience techniques rampant in schools because they sound like quick fixes
by Sharon Hill • • 16 Comments
A skeptical parapsychologists tells it like it is at an education conference – teachers embrace nonsense learning ideas because quick fixes are appealing. Long-term meaningful changes are hard. 'Pseudoscience has nested in schools' – news – TES. When Nick Rose worked as a parapsychologist, his job was to investigate why people believed they had been…
Leftover links
The Strange remains the same for 11 September 2014
by Sharon Hill • • 8 Comments
I didn't have enough leftovers last night and, honestly, I've been working really hard on behind the scenes things that will be really great. So enjoy a full smorgasbord of leftover links tonight. New Series "Ghost Stalkers" | Ghost TV Blogs. Australian Man Wakes From Coma Speaking Fluent Mandarin Proving Again the Brain is a Wondrous…
Real life pop rocks
by Sharon Hill • • 2 Comments
Imagine you are just walking around the solid rock under your feet starts to crackle and then POP as pieces fly apart. This doesn't normally happen. A big chunk of the Sierra Nevada caught fracturing on video | Ars Technica. One interesting way that rocks weather and crumble apart is called "exfoliation." Like the skin-scrubbing…
Cryptozoology, Hoaxes
Bownessie reemerges as a funny dig at Scottish independence
by Sharon Hill • • 1 Comment
Sometimes, don't you feel that the media just insults our intelligence? It's a funny joke that a Scottish monster supposedly visits England during the independence referendum. Scottish independence: now Nessie defects – Telegraph. It seems that it is not just high-street banks, or hardcore unionists, who are looking for the exit door in Scotland should…
Consumer products, money-making schemes, Questionable claims
Kevin Trudeau Appeals Conviction: Says the government messed up the case
by Sharon Hill • • 4 Comments
As expected, Kevin Trudeau appealed his conviction on contempt of court charges that sent him to prison for 10 years. This article also give us some insight into why we still see his dubious books for sale and his ridiculous infomercials on TV. Infomercial Scammer Kevin Trudeau Appeals Conviction – Consumerist. The appeal contends that…
Leftover links
The Strange remains the same for 09 September 2014
by Sharon Hill • • 9 Comments
China: Shang or Zhou dynasty sword found in Jiangsu. Rich, educated and stupid parents are driving the vaccination crisis – LA Times. Lost in Arctic for 169 years, Franklin ship found: 'A great moment for Canada' | CTV News. Was a UFO captured on video during a St. Louis newscast? We analyze the footage |…
Belief/Superstition, Perception
Was it religion, alcohol, or provocation that led to this marital assault?
by Sharon Hill • • 3 Comments
Likely all three combined to make for an explosive relationship. This is why divorces are legal, this is not a healthy mix. 'Possessed' husband spared jail after assaults on wife. A man was spared jail despite punching his wife in the face because she tormented him with accusations that he was the Devil. Anthony Berry…
Oddities, Questionable claims, Unsolved mystery
Was mystery crater in Nicaragua caused by a space rock?
by Sharon Hill • • 4 Comments
We had a link in last night's leftovers about a meteor crashing in Nicaragua. Turns out that is "doubtful" news. Scientists Doubt That Meteor Caused Crater In Nicaragua : The Two-Way : NPR. Did a Meteorite Cause a Crater in Nicaragua? | Watch the Skies. At approximately midnight local time on the night of September…
Leftover links
The Strange remains the same for 08 September 2014
by Sharon Hill • • 5 Comments
More lobsters. Because lobsters are freaky in all colors. Why Do People Believe in Ghosts? – The Atlantic. Tennessee woman uses faith healing as defense in teenager's death – The Portland Press Herald. "The Springer" Leaps From WW2 Urban Legend To Anti-Fascist Superhero. New Series "Angels Among Us" | Ghost TV Blogs. Bigfoot's local devotees…
Hitchin' a ride: Wild cats are such opportunists
by Sharon Hill • • 9 Comments
The researchers at Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park in South Africa got a huge laugh out of not one but multiple unexpected snapshots of genets riding on the backs of cape buffalo and white rhino. Why? Who knows. Surprising Pictures: Wild "Cat" Rides on Rhino – News Watch. As cameras, social media, and technology advance, more and more…
Mysterious light pillars of Malaysia
by Sharon Hill • • 0 Comments
Pillar shaped lights are seen in the sky over a town on the island of Borneo. Do they have an earthly cause? Sabahans abuzz over mystery lights in the sky | The Star Online. Mysterious lights streaking across in the night sky here Tuesday had Sabahans abuzz in social media, with no one able to…
Anomalies, Oddities
Napa quake causes groundwater surges in several places
by Sharon Hill • • 2 Comments
Earthquakes can disturb hydrologic balance. In this case, it is a welcome side effect. Surprise bonanza since Napa quake: dry creeks now flowing – SFGate. Spring water spurts out of rocks and trickles down the moss- and vine-covered cliffs in Solano County's Green Valley – an oasis in a canyon that was parched by drought…
Unsolved mystery
Has Jack The Ripper's identity finally been determined?
by Torkel Ødegård • • 23 Comments
Another claim to have "definitively" solved one of the world's most enduring mysteries. This time using modern technology. 'Jack the Ripper was Polish barber called Aaron Kosminski', new book claims. Jack the Ripper was a 23-year-old Polish immigrant called Aaron Kosminski, according to an author claiming to have exposed the serial killer's true identity using…
Hauntings & Ghosts, Paranormal
Loftus Hall ghost photo goes viral but what good is it?
by Sharon Hill • • 15 Comments
A new ghost photo follows the pattern of all the others, there is little investigation of the circumstances and such evidence can't be verified. That makes it interesting but not decent evidence of "ghosts" or the paranormal. This story, however, is chock full of paranormal themes, but little substance. Loftus Hall 'ghost' photo sensation. A…
Questionable claims, Science
'Telepathy' experiment suffers from overzealous news editors
by Sharon Hill • • 7 Comments
The headline sounds magical and makes people excited for the reality of psi but… take a closer look. This is not psychic, it's technology. 'Telepathy' experiment sends 1st mental message – Yahoo News. For the first time, scientists have been able to send a simple mental message from one person to another without any contact…
Leftover links
The Strange remains the same for 05 September 2014
by Sharon Hill • • 1 Comment
Happy weekend, everyone. Yukon bar patron swallows famous sourtoe, pays fine, leaves town | Toronto Star. Sir David Attenborough 'On the Hunt for the Yeti ' – Yahoo News UK. Isola La Gaiola Is Freakishly Cursed, But Freakishly Beautiful. On Bigfoot's Trail The Pacific Northwest Inlander. Doctors Have No Answers for Colombian Teens' Mass Hysteria…
Anomalies, Oddities
I think we need a bigger steamer…
by Sharon Hill • • 10 Comments
Giant bugs of the sea, lobster and shrimp are. This is not something you can steam or saute in butter and garlic. It bites. Florida Angler Catches Giant, Terrifying Shrimp-Like Creature | Bleacher Report. Fox8Live.com's Mandy Noell reports that an angler named Steve Bargeron was fishing off a local dock when he saw a nearby…
Alternative Medicine, Pseudoscience
Komodo dragon acupuncture – Is this cruel?
by Sharon Hill • • 5 Comments
Since acupuncture has not been shown to be effective or have any basis in reality, should it be used on animals? Perhaps the humans who are invested in the belief that it does something have all good intentions but when it comes down to brass tacks, acupuncture DOES NOT DO ANYTHING. Putting an animal through…
Belief/Superstition, Media, Oddities, Paranormal
Slenderman-obsessed Florida teen sets fire to house
by Sharon Hill • • 11 Comments
Slenderman, the fictional character, has been a hot topic since two girls tried to stab to death their friend to appease the spindly creature. Now, whenever the name is even MENTIONED, it seems to create an overreact in adults. Florida teen obsessed with Slender Man set fire to own home as mom, brother slept: cops…
Hauntings & Ghosts, Paranormal
Utah family concludes house is haunted; ditches rental with a past
by Sharon Hill • • 2 Comments
Once again we have the issue of a stigmatized property. In several states, they are not required to disclose past events that some people (but not all) may consider a defect according to their belief system. Utah family flees former Powell home after learning of grisly past. A Utah family felt duped when they learned…
Cobras on the loose in California and The Netherlands
by Sharon Hill • • 2 Comments
In most places, cobras are illegal to own. Their venom is highly neurotoxic. But collectors and zoos can get permits to own the animals. Occasionally, they escape. As snakes do. It may make the neighbors quite upset with you. Dutch town on high alert over escaped deadly cobra – Telegraph. A small southern Dutch town…
Leftover links
The Strange Remains the Same for 04 Sept 2014
by Sharon Hill • • 9 Comments
Well, this socks: Great Dane eats 43. Earth-shaking dinosaur discovered : Nature News & Comment. Brian Cox: scientists giving false sense of debate on climate change | Environment | theguardian.com. Selling Pseudoscience: A Rent in the Fabric of American Medicine – CSI. Skepticblog » A creationist mole and a sorry mess. Sir Paul Nurse criticises…
Uninvited wasps make really nasty houseguests
by Sharon Hill • • 8 Comments
This is a bit like a horror movie. Firefighters rescue couple after hornets nest fell through ceiling. A couple were forced to escape through their bedroom window after a nest of giant hornets crashed through their ceiling. The householders barricaded themselves behind a makeshift shelter as the angry swarm of yellow-and-black striped hornets invaded their…
Conspiracies, Unsolved mystery
Interceptor network for spying, hacking, or a marketing ploy?
by Sharon Hill • • 7 Comments
Well, this story is all over, making people paranoid. Les Goldsmith, the CEO of ESD America, who makes the $3500 Cryptophone tells Popular Science that the device, running a customized, higher security version of Android has detected phony cell towers called "interceptors" across the country that have turned off encryption. Mysterious Phony Cell Towers Could…
Anomalies, Cryptozoology, Discoveries, Evolution, Science
Newly described animals do not fit into known phylum
by Sharon Hill • • 4 Comments
A new kind of animal, Dendrogramma, looks like a mushroom but does not fit into either the jellyfish or comb jelly family. It resembles fossils of some very ancient fauna. Their discovery could change the way scientists currently think organisms evolved. New Deep-Sea Animal Species Look Like Mushrooms but Defy Classification. The tiny animals, less…


text:
Waaaaa! Kadirty sa mirror. Daghan kau og tag-iya way nakahinlo. Lols! #mirrorme #makeface #selfie #aftie
Even our feet talks .. (:
Makaduka magposting sa Ledger. Aabbrrrrr! #sleepy #GL
Walang basagan ng trip. hahaha xD
"Only the REAL MAN can wear lady dress without HESITATION"
(Proud paku sa lagay na yan) HAHAHAHA xD
#monamour #lovinghimisRED #lols
"One Chance" Portraits - 2013 Toronto International Film
(Source: tswiftdaily, via tswiftfan13)
haHAHA! I know that . lol xD
Its sound so funny when you're boyfriend reprimand you because you're wearing mini skirt or mini short. haha! not because you dont have good legs to display but because he doesn't want other boys get attracted to you. Lols!! FUNNY BUT SWEET . <3 <3 <3.. so you cant really blame me for being so possessive and obsessive with mylabs because HE makes me feel this way. ^_* (hahaha! nahimout jud ko pag pangasaba niya.)
GWAPAHA JUD SA AKONG CRUSH UY !! raaawwrr ! ^^


text:
Ruth Pollard
Ruth Pollard is the Middle East Correspondent for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age. Her job takes her throughout the Middle East and North Africa, reporting on the Arab revolutions from Egypt, Libya, Lebanon, Turkey, Jordan, Tunisia and on the conflict in Israel and Palestine.
Libyan rebels massing as talks fail
Ruth Pollard and Al Krarim Forces gather outside desert town of Bani Walid, awaiting full-scale assault order.


text:
Torrent of GTA V details unveiled; still no confirmation of PC edition
While we wait patiently for Rockstar to confirm or rule out a PC version of Grand Theft Auto V, the publisher has delivered a huge dump of info overnight via the December edition of Game Informer magazine.
The game will literally be the "biggest" in the series, with GTA V art director Aaron Garbut telling GI that the world is bigger than those in Red Dead Redemption, GTA: San Andreas and GTA IV combined.
Here are the key details:
- The game will feature three main protagonists - Michael, Trevor and Franklin. Each will have their own plot arc, and the player will be able to swap between characters via a "Google Earth-style vantage point". Each character will function in the world whether you're in control or not.
- Most of GTA V's gameplay mechanics have been built from the ground-up. The game "evolves nearly every mechanic, features the biggest world in in the series' history and introduces a new technology that radically changes the way players control the game."
- There will be more vehicles than in any previous GTA V game, including BMXs, mountain bikes, road bikes, dirt bikes, trucks, helicopters, planes, ATVs, Jet Skis, planes and helicopters.
- Missions can involve switching between the three protagonists.
- There will be no customisation of characters, as each character will have their own traits.
- In-game entertainment such as cartoons and other media will return.
- There are no romances planned at this stage.
- There will be cameos from previous GTA titles.
- There will be a multiplayer reveal in the coming months.
Grand Theft Auto V will release in Spring 2013 (Autumn if you're in the Southern hemisphere). A PC edition has yet to be confirmed.
Tags: Rockstar Games, GTA IV, GTA5, GTA:IV, Grand Theft Auto 5, GTA 5, GTA V,