text:
0 notes &
Storytelling, Startup-style
by Dave McLaughlin, Co-founder and CEO of Vsnap
Last week I had a chance to participate in an event called INNOVATE Boston, held at the Cambridge Innovation Center. I was one of five CEOs of early-stage companies to talk about what we're doing and why. It was the "and why" part that, for me at least, made the event so great. Everybody talked about the things that were driving them to launch these companies. It felt more personal than just the x's and o's of our respective strategies.
Thanks to Aaron Niederhelman who organized the event, and to the Cambridge Innovation Center, Gesmer Updegrove, and Bridge Bank for sponsoring. Thanks also to the crowd. I found myself in some great conversations after the speaking session was over. And special thanks to the other CEOs who talked about what they believe and why they're pouring their hearts into their companies.
Chase Garbarino, CEO of BostInno
Ben Carcio, CEO of Promoboxx
Stephen Marcus, CEO of Matchbox
Jordan Fliegel, CEO of Coachup
The talks reminded me of Bill Warner's "Build Your Startup from the Heart" series, which you can watch here (from Innovation Breakfast). Bill talks about communicating our intentions, rather than just sharing the details of our companies' inventions. This event captured that spirit, and I think people came away very energized. I certainly did.
Here's a video of the ideas I shared at INNOVATE Boston. Check back soon and I'll link to the official video from that evening.


text:
AICN COMICS REVIEWS: Week Four of DC's #0 Issues! In stores TODAY!!!
|Issue #
|Release Date:
(Click title to go directly to the review)
BATMAN INCORPORATED #0Writers: Grant Morrison and Chris Burnham
Artist: Frazer Irving
Reviewer: Matt Adler
BATMAN INCORPORATED has probably been my favorite series of the New 52. I love the light-hearted approach it takes to the Batman mythos in contrast to the relentlessly grim tone of the other Bat-books. I've said as much in our podcasts, but some of my fellow podcasters take issue with the very concept of the book, and dislike the notion of a team of international Batmen. I've countered by saying that isn't really the focus of the book, and that it's really more of a continuation of Morrison's BATMAN AND ROBIN than anything else.
Well, I can't make that argument with this issue. It focuses pretty much exclusively on how Batman recruited the various members of Batman Incorporated, giving particular attention to Australia's Dark Ranger and the UK's Knight and Squire. The theme of the story is that even Batman needs help, and the threat of Leviathan, Talia Al Ghul's secret organization, is the reason. Unfortunately, none of these international Batmen have much personality; a few of them even descend into stereotypes. Even Dark Ranger never rises above the cliché of the reluctant hero who's hung up his costume because his partner got killed.
Frazer Irving's art is gorgeous, of course, and he apparently handles everything from pencils to colors, but it's a radical departure from Chris Burnham's frenetic pop style, with its murky tones and painterly feel. There were moments in this issue that I enjoyed, such as Bruce's none too subtle threat to his Board of Directors, which he uses to coerce them into supporting his crazy Batman Incorporated venture. But unlike most of the issues in the series thus far, it never really comes together to provide you with a feeling of excitement, or wanting to know what comes next. A rare miss for Morrison.
Matt Adler is a writer/journalist, currently writing for AICN among other outlets. He's been reading comics for 20 years, writing about them for 7, and spends way, way, too much time thinking about them, which means he really has no choice but to figure out how to make a living out of them. He welcomes all feedback.
THE FLASH #0Writers: Francis Manapul & Brian Buccellato
Art: Francis Manapul (art), Brian Buccellato & Ian Herring (colors)
Reviewer: Johnny Destructo
My dearest Wally West,
It breaks my heart that you and I had to go our separate ways. I know that it wasn't something you wanted, and I'm damn sure it wasn't something I wanted, or was even prepared to deal with. Even though at first, I wasn't sure I even wanted to be with you, eventually you wormed your snide and spoiled way into my heart. I thought people might look at us funny, drawn to each other just because of the sameness of our hair color. But damn them all, we are Firecrotches for life, bound by our burning Dark Phoenix short & curlies. Besides, after a while, I just stopped caring. I became proud to carry you with me. Let the people on the buses and subways gawk all they wanted, you and I were meant to be together, my most Scarlet of Speedsters.
Over the course of our relationship, you and I both grew up from (if you'll excuse the phrase) impulse kids into responsible adults, but still living in the shadow of others. We fought for ourselves, you and I, and we persevered. But then I watched helplessly as you ruined your life with terrible, terrible children. Oh, how I wanted to go back in time and ret-con them into a sloppy mess on the dirty concrete of a back-alley abortion clinic. Not just for ME, my love, but for you as well! You were changing, I could feel it. No longer was our connection as boundless as it had once seemed. And then, I could see lightning on the horizon in the guise of Geoff Johns. He had done right by you previously, and oh the times we had, the three of us. He got you just as much as I did. Good lord, as the memories wash over me, so to do the tears of regret.
Just as you were letting him go and racing from under his shadow, Johns used dark magicks to bring back your Uncle Barry.
But that wasn't enough. As time went by and you faded out of the spotlight, Barry took center stage. My heart couldn't handle it. I composed many a suicide note while struggling to remain interested in that blonde-haired bow-tie wearing bollocks-licker. Not even Geoff Johns, who had worked miracles on you before, could make me love this re-youth-enated bastard. Don't look for a dictionary, my love…it isn't a word.
Once the New 52 started, I tried again to give a good gosh darn about Barry, but holy cats was he a dry character. I loved some of the things that the new writer/artist had done with Barry's powers. The running on the rotating blades of a helicopter? The super-quick thinking that allowed him to foresee every possibility? Hell, my favorite scene was when Barry got so tied up concentrating on possibilities that he got shot in the head! Brilliant! But alas, having interesting things happen to a character doesn't make him interesting, and I fell behind. I've missed the past 7 or 8 issues of the book, a title that used to give me such glee when it was just you and me.
And that brings us to this newest issue. It's a retelling of that blonde bastard's origin, and I was prepared to hate it. To show DC the hate that it showed me, by squashing our love, my dear Wallace. Squashed it like a bug on the face shield of that unforgivably bad Jay Garrick costume we've had to look at in Earth 2.
But, I didn't hate it. I realized, after I started to let my mile-high emotional walls down, that maybe there was something interesting about Barry after all. We harkened back the obligatory five years, and I got to watch the classic scene in which Barry received his powers. The same one that he would eventually and irresponsibly recreate, allowing you to become a Flash as well. But the moment's fire is dramatically fueled by the fact that Barry is in the middle of throwing his equipment through a window when he is touched by the speed-giving light. He's frustrated, you see. Emotional, even. A state that I'm not used to seeing from ol' Crew-Cut. He's been trying for years to uncover the mystery behind his mother's death, and hopefully get his supposedly framed father out of prison. I was then taken on a whirlwind of flashbacks as Barry lay in a coma. It seems that he's Lt. Frye's "golden boy" because Frye is like a father to Barry. Well, you know…a "not in prison for the murder of his mother" type of father. We also see the origin of Barry's lame-ass bow tie. I don't care what the Dr. Who fan-shirt says: Bow Ties are NOT cool. So sayeth the geek with the GI Joe tattoo! It also seems that Barry's mother and father were on the brink of divorce because of another man, who I'm going to assume is the aforementioned Lt. Frye.
Another interesting point that I noticed about Barry's upbringing is that his doting and loving mother was always telling him to slow down, to take his time and think things through, and then his father would come in and literally hurry the boy up. "We've gotta go." "Be back before dinner". There's an interesting dichotomy at work here, a pushing and pulling within Barry that I hope is explored further, but at least it adds an interesting layer the character.
I also love the scene where Barry first employs his superspeed. In the original, um…origin, Barry was running to get a cab and runs past it. This scene is far more personal, as he was in his coma, dreaming when it happened. In the dream, he was coming home to find his mother had been killed and was trying to run past the cops to his mother's body when he apparently went sleep-running. He awoke to find that he had run to East Africa by accident. A far cooler scene, if you ask me.
And that's the thing, Wally. This origin story is filled to the brim with emotional beats that invested me in the character in a way that I wasn't expecting. Now, I do remember that some of this is ground already worn down by Geoff Johns, the mother-murder story. It turned out that his mom was killed by Reverse-Flash, and that Barry's attempts at saving her created the Flashpoint Universe, and in turn created the entire New 52. I'm curious to see if Manapul will be using that same villain as the cause, or if this is going to start heading in the direction of a true mystery, not one that I'm just re-reading for the sake of it. Either way, for the first time, I think I'm actually interested in finding out.
I hope this doesn't hurt you to read, my red-headed rapscallion. But as much as I love you, and will love you…I'm starting to wonder if there isn't a brighter future ahead. I know you'll be back someday; of course you will. I have undying hope. Just as Barry returned, so shall you.
I'll be waiting for you, one bated breath at a time. But until then, I hope you don't mind if I hang out with Barry awhile. He might be a pretty cool dude.
Yours in the speed-force,
Johnny Destructo
P.S. I still wear those Flash underoos you gave me, and think of you fondly when I do.
JD can be found hosting the PopTards Podcast, drawing a weekly webcomic, discussing movies, comics and other flimflam over at www.poptardsgo.com, graphically designing/illustrating for a living, and Booking his Face off over here. Follow his twitter @poptardsgo. His talkback name is PopTard_JD. He is also now co-hosting another Comic Book discussion show on Party934.com alongside Bohdi Zen. They discuss comics and play music, check it out live every Saturday from 4-5pm.
I, VAMPIRE #0Writer: Joshua Hale Fialkov
Art: Andrea Sorrentino
Reviewer: Optimous Douche
As we reach the end of zero month, or as some have dubbed it "New 52 Course Correction," two clear categories of books have arisen: there's definitive prequels and what I have cynically dubbed issues 13.
My mortal perception of linear time made it hard to grapple with the fact not all zeroes must precede the events of issue one. I hit some books with reviewer abuse because of this prejudice. But as we now reach the end of this event, I had an epiphany or moment of forgiveness to see the merits in both approaches in moving the New DCU into Year 2. Which is honestly all DC ever promised; prequel was a badge stitched on by fans.
Or at least I did before reading I, VAMPIRE…
I, VAMPIRE is a case where I really wanted to see an issue 13, but instead it clearly fits into the prequel category of my zero month taxonomy. Make no mistake, Fialkov and Sorrentino deliver the goods in this story of Andrew Bennett before he became the world's nicest vampire, but I don't know if I discovered enough surprises to say I absolutely needed this story.
In a time when manly men could wear lace and women were still wenches, Lord Bennett lives in the shadows of a love that must not be named. No, not bestiality. Well…maybe bestiality if you consider banging the help the same as schtupping a golden retriever. I know some blue bloods do, so I won't judge. That's right, folks, the blood lust Mary, who is soooo superior with her belief that vampires are a leg up on humanity, was once a common little cinder girl and Andrew her Lord in waiting. Mary and Andrew's love has been forever doomed, which has been one of the most compelling elements of this series to date. In modern times it is ideology that separates them, while in this time of yore it was class.
I guess my beef with this zero offering (if you can call it that) is that I kind of guessed what was going to happen. Once I realized we were in elder days, when Bennett rode into the night to get some Mary play in a stable or broom closet (wherever you go to bang the help), I wasn't exactly shocked to see his run-in with Cain, his maker and the original vampire.
Mary is basically a non-entity in this issue, which is a shame. I have found her to be a compelling antagonist and would have liked some of her life thoughts before she entered the unlife.
Again, Fialkov made the verbal parlay engaging. Bennett never cowers, and Cain shows admiration for Bennett's courage, much the same way I find it cute when our live lobsters try to escape the sink. And Sorrentino, good God can Sorrentino draw. His talent has been one of the biggest surprises of the New 52, and I can't wait to see more work thrown his way.
Optimous has successfully blackmailed fellow @$$Hole BottleImp into being his artist on Average Joe. Look for Imp's forced labor on Optimous brain child in mid-2012 from COM.X. Friend Optimous on FaceBook to get Average Joe updates and because ceiling cat says it's the right thing to do.
JUSTICE LEAGUE DARK #0Writer: Jeff Lemire
Artist: Lee Garbett
Reviewer: Matt Adler
John Constantine is one of those characters who's a very distinctive archetype, but can wear on you pretty quickly when he's written as nothing more than a sum of clichés. I tried JUSTICE LEAGUE DARK when Peter Milligan was writing it, and it didn't work for me, for that among other reasons. Jeff Lemire took over the book with issue #9, and this is the first issue of his run that I've tried. Would his take warm me up to the series?
The book starts off with John Constantine arriving in New York "some time ago"; Constantine's style of dress (which I got a kick out of) suggests the late '70s/early '80s punk rock era, but that probably doesn't fit with current DC continuity. He's an ambitious young turk, already having gleaned all he can about magic in his home country, and eager to move to the next level, which he believes he will find in NYC.
We're introduced to Nick Necro, "New York City's greatest mage", who seems certainly marked for death given that he doesn't seem to be around in the present time. Zatanna is introduced at the same time, and Constantine's love at first sight reaction to her is pretty amusing given his usually cynical portrayal.
The issue serves as a good intro into the DC's occult world, and explains succinctly the mission that Constantine and Zatanna will find themselves on as part of JUSTICE LEAGUE DARK. As I said, it's no surprise that Nick Necro, who becomes a mentor in the ways of magic to both Constantine and Zatanna, bites the dust, but the how and why is the interesting thing.
But perhaps the most compelling aspect of this issue is what it reveals about Constantine. Although we're at first led to believe the issue intends to show us a softer, gentler side under that cynical exterior, what's really revealed is an even darker side; someone who knows what he wants and is willing to do just about anything to get it. What that will mean for this series going forward is something I'm eager to find out.
THE SAVAGE HAWKMAN #0Writer: Rob Liefeld (plot/script) & Mark Poulton (script)
Art: Joe Bennett
Reviewer: Ambush Bug
Call me crazy, but I didn't hate this Liefeld-penned issue of HAWKMAN, which looks to be shedding some light on the clouded history of our amnesiac winged hero of the DCU. I don't regularly follow this book, though I am an admirer of Geoff Johns' run on the book. Hawkman seems to be a character that is interesting to look at but hard to write other than a lost love story that Johns did so well. Here, Liefeld and Poulton try to simplify the story, tossing out the reincarnation stuff and focusing on the intergalactic righter of wrongs pastiche.
I'm not going to call this the most original story. It's a bit reminiscent of space operas such as FLASH GORDON, mixed with some Camelot and surprisingly DEXTER (specifically the last season) as Carter and Shayera appear to be adopted siblings. For a character who has had such a problem in the past for having so many continuity glitches, one would think a concerted effort to really solidify an origin would be taken with this new 52 re-launch/boot/tread. Here, though, with Carter being adopted, things are left unclear if he is Thanagarian or something else (possibly from Earth? Who knows?).
What I do know is that looking at Joe Bennett's panels is a treat. He's such a talented artist and makes one almost look past all of the missed and glossed over opportunities for action that this issue is riddled with.
As much as some of the other DC 0 books, I feel Hawkman's origin should be so much bigger than a single issue. Here it seems cramped with huge important chunks missing. Still, it's not an awful book and at least offers enough interesting story fodder up for other writers to elaborate on.
Ambush Bug is Mark L. Miller, original @$$Hole/wordslinger/reviewer/co-editor of AICN Comics for over ten years. He has written comics such as MUSCLES & FIGHTS, MUSCLES & FRIGHTS, VINCENT PRICE PRESENTS TINGLERS & WITCHFINDER GENERAL, THE DEATHSPORT GAMES, WONDERLAND ANNUAL 2010 & NANNY & HANK (soon to be made into a feature film from Uptown 6 Films). He is also a regular writer for FAMOUS MONSTERS OF FILMLAND & has co-written their first ever comic book LUNA: ORDER OF THE WEREWOLF (to be released in late 2012 as an 100-pg original graphic novel). Mark has just announced his new comic book miniseries GRIMM FAIRY TALES PRESENTS THE JUNGLE BOOK from Zenescope Entertainment to be released March-August 2012. Also look for Mark's exciting arc on GRIMM FAIRY TALES #76-80 which begins in August 2012.
AQUAMAN #0Writer: Geoff Johns
Artists: Ivan Reis and Joe Prado
Reviewer: Matt Adler
AQUAMAN is not a series I have been following. My problem with Aquaman is not with his character, but with his setting. When I checked out the first issue, it was set almost entirely on dry land, in our mundane world. If I'm going to read a series about a superhero from a fabled underwater realm, I want that underwater realm to be as much of a character in the story as he is. I want to see lost royal houses, magic, medieval intrigue, the whole works. Otherwise, he's just another superhero.
This zero issue starts off yet again in our world, six years prior, with a young Arthur Curry coming to terms with the media discovering his Atlantean heritage. That just doesn't interest me.
However, it does pick up towards the end, when Arthur meets a refugee from Atlantis living among the humans, who convinces him to return to Atlantis and claim his birthright. Atlantis itself only turns up on the last page, but it's an exciting sight to behold. If that is what the series' focus has turned to, I may have to check it out again.
SUPERMAN #0Writer: Scott Lobdell
Artist: Kenneth Rockafort
Publisher: DC Comics
Reviewer: Optimous Douche
My favorite part of this issue was when Starfire came out of the water, dropped to all fours, and became an alien finger-cuff for Clark and Jimmy…oh, wait, wrong book. Hopefully, though, I pissed off at least three Mommy bloggers by invoking the sacred Starfire name.
H8Rs are going to hate. I could claim that this rendition of SUPERMAN was handed down to us by the ghost hands of Siegel, Shuster and Donner. That it completely retells the Man of Steel's origin in a way never conceived and there would STILL be a collective yawn from the cynical comic cavalcade out there. So you know what, I'm not even going to try.
Some stories are simply timeless…like Superman, Batman, Jesus and Jeffrey Dahmer. And no matter how many times I read them, I always appreciate a fresh voice delivering the expected outcome. So it was with great gusto I ripped into this issue of SUPERMAN with a familiar, but wholly new, Kryptonian costumed figure bursting out of the cover.
I'll also admit this creative team lives outside "50 Shades of Gray" in the comic community. People either love or hate these guys, no middle ground. Personally, I love them. RED HOOD AND THE OUTLAWS is one of my top five in the new DCU, and I couldn't wait to read their unique take on a title that, let's be honest, has been anything but stellar since relaunch.
Did they deliver? Absolutely! LobRocster take us to the days before the destruction of Krypton. But gone are the cool scientific minds of yore, where everyone on the Big K had a rod up their ass and spoke like they taught Elizabethan poetry. Yes, Krypton is more scientifically advanced, but at the same time they retain a level of,dare I say, humanity that has been absent in almost every past iteration of the planet that was.
Jor-El is a wunderkind scientist, but has a rebellious streak that feels truly edgy. Like Cartman he "does what he wants" all with a wink, nod and middle finger aimed at the authoriti of Krypton. In past iterations the Kryptonian science council treated Jor's sky is falling (or, to be more accurate, the planet is exploding) findings as the ravings of a madman. In the world of zero the council no longer dismisses Jor-El's words, but rather does everything in their power to get him to shut the fuck up. It's a cloak and dagger reflection of real world politics and authority figures that all comics should strive for, regardless of canon from 100 years ago.
This hunt leads me seamlessly to Lara-El, Supes' mom. BEST RENDITION EVER. She was always so January Jones in past iterations, basically window dressing with tits. In place simply because the writer HAD to have a vagina to get the story going. No more: Lobdell gives her a sense of purpose, a kick ass Ying to Jor's scientific Yang. She's also a scientist, but learned her craft at the Kryptonian Military Academy. To see Jor and Lar work in concert with her as the muscle and his Ozymandias-like foresight of enemy movements was a role reversal I find in many more couples these days – The Optimous house included.
As much as I loved the post 'WORLD OF" titles that followed CRISIS ON INFINITE EARTHS, Lobdell has given these two more personality in one issue than the entire WORLD OF KRYPTON series. The beautiful dichotomy he presents as the two fight the science council and prepare for Armageddon has given a layer to SUPERMAN'S biological parents never seen.
I was honestly pissed this issue ended so quickly, I only hope and pray that issue 13 builds off this zero instead of zipping us back to the current continuity mess Kal has been suffering for the last 12 issues.
Regardless of my wishes or where the title goes tomorrow, and regardless of your personal feelings on LobRocster as a creative team, they WILL bring something different to the tale and for that all comic fans should be grateful.
VOODOO #0Writer: Joshua Williamson
Art: Sami Basri
Reviewer: Matt Adler
You know those little character blurbs in comics that are supposedly to briefly sum up and introduce you to the character? Like Superman's might be, "Sent as an infant from a doomed planet, Clark Kent was raised by a kindly Midwestern couple, and now fights for Truth, Justice, and the American Way as…. SUPERMAN!" Well, when your character's blurb contains, as Voodoo does, the phrase "…the hybrid clone of the human Priscilla Kitaen is a human-alien shapeshifter…" you may want to stop and consider if you're on the right track.
Another New 52 series that is apparently heavily tied into the Wildstorm mythos, but to no interesting effect. There's also echoes of SUPERBOY #0 here, with the protagonist trapped in a tank by monstrous beings intent on using our hero for their own evil ends. But Superboy showed us some personality, some sense of where they were taking him as a character, which is what made that book interesting. The girl who escapes from the tank here is a complete cipher, and then it's revealed the book isn't even about her, it's about her CLONE, who is naturally assigned the cover identity of a stripper by her alien masters.
Sami Basri does a nice job on the art, but it can't save what is ultimately a boring and cliché story.
BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT #0Writer: Gregg Hurwitz
Art: Mico Suayan & Juan Jose Ryp (pencils), Vincente Cifuentes & Sonia Oback (ink)
Reviewer: Ambush Bug
I've been skipping this book because I felt it to be pretty unnecessary. It seems David Finch wanted to do his own book and dammit if DC didn't need to hit that magic 52 number, so they said what the hell. Problem is, keeping up with a monthly schedule is often difficult for an artist as detailed as Finch and though I don't know for sure, it appears that he at least is taking a break this month (if not off the book completely), which allows MOON KNIGHT writer Gregg Hurwitz to slide in.
The story isn't groundbreaking. A young and angry Bruce Wayne sets out to track down his parent's killer convinced they are at the heart of a conspiracy reaching the highest levels of government and the lowest levels of crime. Hurwitz does a good job with a little space in showing us a determined but green Wayne who leapt to conclusions because of his emotional involvement. This makes for an interesting slice of life story in the day in the life of Bruce Wayne before donning the cowl.
What makes this issue stand out is the art provided by Mico Suayan & Juan Jose Ryp. Both artists offer up a textured and dense style of artistry, mastering shape and form and presenting them in interesting ways. Though I find Finch's artwork to be somewhat Jim Lee-esque, BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT has established itself as a series featuring top talent artists doing Batman stories that may not be the most dense, but look good. This issue continues the tradition with a stronger tale than what I have sampled from this series. Though I still think this book is a prime example of a need to trim the fat from the Batman books, this was a decent one due to a sound story and some exemplary artwork.
TEEN TITANS #0Writer: Scott Lobdell
Artist: Tyler Kirkham
Reviewer: Matt Adler
The cover lists Brett Booth as the penciller, but it's actually Tyler Kirkham. I don't know if this was a last minute change or not, but Kirkham does an excellent job on this issue, with dynamic layouts, detailed illustrations, and a great rendition of Batman. This was a pleasant surprise, as I had not been as enamored with his art when I checked out an issue of GREEN LANTERN: NEW GUARDIANS. Maybe the more down-to-earth stuff is a better fit for him.
Anyway, as you can probably guess by the inclusion of Batman, this is more of a Red Robin story than a Teen Titans story. Which is OK, because Tim Drake's role in the Robin pantheon has really needed some straightening out since the New 52 began. To sum up, he was Batman's partner, briefly, but he was not technically a Robin since he chose to be known as Red Robin.
If you find technicalities like that irritating, well, I sympathize. For me, it doesn't really solve the problem that has Batman going through four young boys in the span of five years. It's just plain weird, especially given how much is made in this issue of Batman's reluctance to put these kids in harm's way. Personally, I think they should have just bitten the bullet and eliminated both Jason Todd and Tim Drake from continuity. That way you've got one Robin who's graduated in Dick Grayson, and then the current Robin in Damian. I know this would piss off a lot of people, particularly Tim Drake fans, but if you're going to reboot your continuity to make it simpler, you've got to break a few eggs.
Given what he's got to work with here, Lobdell makes it work as best as possible. He captures Tim's detective skills excellently, showing him just on the verge of discovering Batman's secret identity, and causing Batman all sorts of hassles, necessitating Batman to step in and try to slow him down. How he actually winds up becoming Batman's partner may be controversial for some; Tim's efforts to get Batman's attention have him running afoul of the Penguin, which leads to his parents being placed in witness protection and Batman adopting him.
Is it a stretch? I guess, yeah, but as I said, I think the whole "4 Robins in 5 years" scenario is a stretch, so some contortions to make it fit are understandable. Continuity issues aside, this was a fast paced and enjoyable read, which is more than you can say for a lot of comics these days.
THE FURY OF FIRESTORM #0Writer: Joe Harris
Art: Yildray Cinar (pencils), Marlo Alquiza (inks)
Reviewer: Ambush Bug
It's déjà vu all over again. As I flipped through this book, I couldn't help but feel as if I had read this story before. Turns out, upon excavating the first issue of FURY OF FIRESTORM released one year ago, that feeling was solidified when I realized this is pretty much the exact same story Gail Simone told with issue #1.
Basically, the issue establishes that stuff has happened in the last year of this title I don't normally follow, but none of it happens here. A threat shows up just as Jason Rusch and his opposite number Ronnie Raymond trade insults to one another for being the typical high school stereotype: Rusch being the science nerd, Raymond being the athlete. Both don't get along, though their relationship is somewhat closer. Still, a lot of time establishing their differences is made and then a big bad shows up, forcing the two to discard their differences in order to work together to face down the menace.
Which is exactly what happened in issue one of FURY OF FIRESTORM last year!
Somewhere along the way, I think an editor should have noticed that this book has the same story structure as the first issue and said something. But alas, that didn't happen. So if you liked the first issue of FURY OF FIRESTORM last year and want more of the same, get issue #0 and see how little things change in twelve months.
TALON #0Writers: Scott Snyder and James Tynion IV
Artist: Guillem March
Reviewer: Matt Adler
I'm the rare person who hasn't been following Scott Snyder's acclaimed Court of Owls saga, which stretches back to before the New 52. I've dipped in here and there, but for some reason I just wasn't drawn in. So it seemed like an interesting to challenge to see if Talon, a new book spun off from that storyline, could succeed in capturing my attention where the main storyline didn't.
I think one of the problems I had with the Court of Owls issues I'd read was that I felt I was on mystery overload. I never got a real sense of who these people were and what their motivation was. TALON #0 solves that by taking us behind the scenes into the Court of Owls' recruitment process from the point of view of Calvin Rose, a Talon who has gone renegade and tried to escape his former life. Calvin is an escape artist by trade (maybe someone should introduce him to Mister Miracle?) who as a child escaped an abusive home to join Haley's Circus, the same outfit that Dick Grayson was once a part of, where he is discovered by the Court of Owls and drawn into their fold. The bio page at the back of this issue suggests that Haley's Circus is the main recruiting ground for the Court of Owls; if that's so, I find that curious—a circus may be a good place to find escape artists, which seems to be the talent the Court most wants Calvin for, but it's a strange place to look for assassins, who make up the bulk of the Owls' Talon army.
In any event, Calvin does join, but soon has compunctions about the dirty deeds the Owls wish him to perform. While we've certainly seen the tale of a protagonist who turns against his evil masters and joins the side of the angels before, the connections to a conspiracy involving the larger Batman mythos, and the escape artist angle, give this take an added flavoring, and Calvin Rose is an interesting and sympathetic character. After a couple of years with the Court of Owls being portrayed as an untouchable, mysterious organization masterminding the chaos in Batman's world with impunity, it's interesting now to see a series where there is an element they clearly DON'T have under control. That, more than anything, is what has grabbed my attention.
ALL STAR WESTERN #0Writer: Jimmy Palmiotti & Justin Gray
Art: Moritat
Reviewer: Johnny Destructo
Hellfire and tarnation, what is it that keeps me from reading this book? I've heard whispers and exclamations that this book is rad, from those I respect, and yet I can't seem to get off my duff and read this book more often. Is it that I don't have the money? Hell no, I work in a comic shop and can read them for free! Is it that I just hate Westerns? 10 years ago, I would have said yes. But my journey from Asian cinema into Akira Kurosawa into Spaghetti Westerns has left me a fan of the broken leather and sand-modded, haggard faces of the old west heroes. Just not enough hours in the day, is what it boils down to. Well, it looks like I'm going to just have to create more, because this books seems well worth it.
Now I'll admit that while I've enjoyed the occasional Hexposition (thangyewvurrymuch), I was slightly bored by the first couple issues of the New 52 ASW. I wasn't feeling Hex's new Chatty-Cathy partner, or his time in Gotham city. I suppose I felt that, like the almighty Pee Wee Herman, Hex was "a loner, Dottie...a rebel". But that was just me being a sullen amber-stuck grouch, fearing the changes brought by the updated landscape of the New Five-Two.
That doesn't apply here though. I can't say that my previously stated views on the subject were worn down and given new light through this issue, because none of that is IN this issue. This does what the Zero issues SHOULD be doing, going back and telling the origin of the book and its characters.
No Chatty-Katherine or Gotham City here (ok except for the last vignette). Herein, we have a tale worthy of any western film. In fact...something like this SHOULD have been given to us in place of the terrible Jonah Hex movie that we got in 2010. (Holy hell on a horse saddle, that was only two years ago? That wretched thing felt like forever ago. Anyhoo.) This story is not THAT. We are witness to Woodson Hex, being totally bad-ass and protecting his wife as she gives birth to their scarless baby boy, Jonah. (Ok...so he wasn't born like that. Got it). But the bad-ass Woodson deteriorates from the drink over the years into a wife-throttling coward and things do not go well for the family, as you would expect.
We are then taken on a journey as Jonah endures hardship after hardship after hardship. Abused. Betrayed. Abandoned, time and time again. Even sustaining some terrible scarring, but even THAT is not enough. We then are slogged through even more Hexcessive tribulations until he is outcast from his adoptive family and into his face is finally burned The Mark Of The Demon. Man, insult to injury for this fella. It just ain't right.
But as painful as it was to experience along with ole Hex, it was a damnably pleasurable ride.
Saddle-sores and all, this book is gravel, grit, n'guts and it's holding me at gun-point to read some more.
RED LANTERNS #0Writer: Pete Milligan
Art: Ardian Syaf
Reviewer: Matt Adler
This book takes a lot of flak, and reading it now, I can see why. It's certainly not that Peter Milligan is a bad writer, and Ardian Syaf does a capable job on the art. No, the problem is in the concept itself. The Red Lanterns are fine as villains for Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps; some of the most interesting villains are the obsessive, single-minded types that define the raging Red Lanterns. But why on Earth anyone thought that concept was enough to support its own series is beyond me.
To make matters worse, this is an origin issue for Atrocitus, and we already know what we need to know about the character. His whole planet got killed because of some poor choices by the Guardians, and now he wants revennnnnnge! Nevertheless, we are treated to an extended rendition of his origin, complete with scenes of his ridiculously human-like family getting slaughtered, and him hooking up with the demonic Five Inversions.
Sometimes, oftentimes, less is more. The Five Inversions were interesting when Alan Moore first tossed the idea out because he didn't tell us everything about them. He didn't even show us all five. He just suggested certain things, and left it up to our imaginations to fill in the blanks, which made the idea all the creepier. But now that DC has decided to strip mine every last detail of that back-up story written 30 years ago, all the mystery is gone. They still look cool, but they're demystified, and we're even treated to the ridiculous spectacle of Atrocitus MATING with one of them.
I guess this is the nature of company-owned comics; anything worth doing is worth beating to death. Anyway, all it amounts to is a tedious and pointless exercise in continuity mining, and in the end, it forgets to give us a reason to follow a book about a bunch of angry aliens who go around killing everyone.
Proofs, co-edits & common sense provided by Sleazy G
Find out what are BLACK MASK STUDIOS and OCCUPY COMICS here and on Facebook here!
Want more in all things Geek?
Check out PoptardsGo and on Facebook here!
Get your copy of highly-anticipated anthology TOME by 44FLOOD today on their Kickstarter!
Check out AICN COMICS on Facebook and Comixpedia.org!
Readers Talkbackcomments powered by Disqus
+ Expand All
Sept. 26, 2012, 9:52 a.m. CST
Say. My. Name.
by i_created_this_to_do_a_first_post_bitches
I'm tooo coooool AintICool.com
Sept. 26, 2012, 9:59 a.m. CST
Really, why even bother buying this shit if they're gonna recon. it in another five years.
by Atkinson
I use to love comic books when there were consequences, when story lines were taken seriously, when if someone got married, the editors didn't say "just kidding" and have some representation of the Devil hit the reset button to make the hero a perpetually pathetic 22 year old living in his old aunt's house. Now we have DC pulling this shit. With the T-Shirt Superman, no wait - the Hoodie Emo Superman, No wait - the metalic bodysuit Superman, No wait - the whatever jerk you around, stick your finger up the fans' assess and take your $4 bucks afterward Superman. Well I'm not buying that shit. Thank you and don't forget to feed the cat.
Sept. 26, 2012, 10:28 a.m. CST
Is Justice League Dark ever going to come out in trade?
by rev_skarekroe
It's the only New 52 series I give a damn about, and that's just to see how this Constantine differs from the 50 year old one in Hellblazer.
Sept. 26, 2012, 11:23 a.m. CST
lol @ #0.
by vulturess
in 5 years the totally authentic exclusively definitive prime of all prime dc reboots will start at #00.
Sept. 26, 2012, 11:55 a.m. CST
It's all garbage
by Larry_Sanders
And even Jonah Hex (Team-Up featuring BATMAN) is a shadow of it's former self.
Sept. 26, 2012, 12:14 p.m. CST
but it's always been garbage....
by sonnyhooper
....why does everyone insist on this pretense that at some point in the past comic books were high art? <p> is it just nostalgia or is there something fundamentally wrong where fan boys just can't seem to bring themselves to admit that since the very beginning comic books have been nothing but soap operas with spandex? <p> maybe it's not fair just to pin this on nostalgic comic book fans, because it seems to be a problem with *GEEK CULTURE* in general. it's the same mind set that seems to think the original Total Recall was a work of quality and the re-boot was awful. <p> take a deep breath everyone, and come to the realization that it's ALL just pop culture nonsense. by it's very definition pop culture is supposed to be disposable. i just wonder at what point did everyone forget that?
Sept. 26, 2012, 12:32 p.m. CST
I feel Sonnyhooper's pain...
by Greg Nielsen
It's ok to like some junk food. I do all the time. Moderation is the key. Not to say that only comics are junk food. Actual books are too. Chabon and Toni Morrison can try and lie and tell you they are deep but they are not. Nothing really is except maybe your religious views (debatable depending on the person) and your relationships with others (debatable depending on the person again). In the end, I don't care what comics do. I'll probably find something I like cause I like the format. It's not gonna ruin my day. Too much other stuff going on.
Sept. 26, 2012, 12:33 p.m. CST
Also, Wonder Woman has been consistently good and so has Earth 2...
by Greg Nielsen
Seriously, both are really fun. Lots of bright colors and silliness. Totally a good way to get a cheer up.
Sept. 26, 2012, 12:34 p.m. CST
Also Paul Veerhoven sucks and always has...
by Greg Nielsen
Outside of Soldier of Orange he's practically a Troma film maker.
Sept. 26, 2012, 1:04 p.m. CST
by Poptard_JD
have you read issue 0? it was good!
Sept. 26, 2012, 1:11 p.m. CST
as with all things i blame the hipsters...
by sonnyhooper
.....they started the whole, *only old retro stuff is cool (and even then only in an ironic way)* and the * i liked them before they sold out* mentality. <p> i mean, even something like WATCHMEN, which is arguably the gold standard for comic book storytelling , when you look at it objectively, is nothing more than a rehashed telling of an old episode of the OUTER LIMITS thrown into a blender with the old Charlton Comics characters and served in a cracked and dirty glass. <p> don't get me wrong, i love Watchemen as much as the next fan boy, but i sure a hell ain't trying to pretend it's any more or less than what it is. and i sure as hell ain't gonna pretend that crappy comic started and ended with the NEW52. <P> personally, i'm not into those types of shortcuts to actual thinking.
Sept. 26, 2012, 1:37 p.m. CST
and also i totally agree with Matt Adler...
by sonnyhooper
....the invention of Damian Wayne has made Jason Todd and Tim Drake obsolete and it's really a shame DC let possible fan reaction dictate the inclusion of those chracters into the re-boot.
Sept. 26, 2012, 2:37 p.m. CST
Damian Wayne was not Geoff Johns enough which is why Jason Todd and Tim Drake survived...
by Greg Nielsen
Just like how crap like The Killing Joke is in continuity still because quite simply Johns needs somewhere to get ideas from. Same with all the Steve Englehart Green Lantern stuff.
Sept. 26, 2012, 2:37 p.m. CST
For a bit of positivity. Prophet came out today...
by Greg Nielsen
That book is almost always good.
Sept. 26, 2012, 3:10 p.m. CST
Yorgo, I politely disagree with all of your wrongness regarding Johns
by Poptard_JD
Sept. 26, 2012, 3:11 p.m. CST
on the other hand, I read issue one of Prophet and couldn't bring myself to read the second..I guess I'll have to give it another shot at some point
by Poptard_JD
Sept. 26, 2012, 3:48 p.m. CST
Sorry Johnny I don't believe you...
by Homer Sexual
Nothing on gods green earth can make me believe Barry Allen is interesting. Just about the definition of a white bread character. Sad to read that VooDoo ends blandly because it really was initially one of the best and most unusual of the new 52 Talon has a very ridiculous costume so no thanks
Sept. 26, 2012, 4:07 p.m. CST
Poptard_JD, Geoff Johns simply does stories he read as a kid that he found in a bargain bin with more of 90s vibe...
by Greg Nielsen
It's why his books can be both nostalgic and stupid Millar level violent at the same time. His Green Lantern run is based on a throw away annual by Alan Moore and the Manhunters and Guardians of the Universe as total d-bags he got from Englehart. I mean why even bring back New Guardians which was Englehart's completely whacked out pet project that he even abandoned after 1 or 2 issues (can't remember). Aquaman...Peter David's run. I don't need to say more. He's in control of the DC Universe right now and they had the chance to go in and basically cut themselves free and do something new. Johns doesn't know how to do that. He even decided half fistedly jam in Wildstorm cause DC wasn't 90s enough for him yet. It's what he is. Seriously, for the life of me I don't get the appeal of Johns. I can understand why people wouldn't like Prophet. Makes total sense to me. I just can't honestly see what good there is in Johns. Every time I read one of his books I cringe at the dialogue while waiting for a hand to get cut off. Oh and he's responsible for the Carol Ferris stripper attire that is now a new goofy jump suit. Bravo Johns.
Sept. 26, 2012, 4:08 p.m. CST
On the positive side, I can't wait for Before Watchmen 0...
by Greg Nielsen
Seriously where are my Before Watchmen issue 0 issues. I'd buy it in a heartbeat btw.
Sept. 26, 2012, 6:26 p.m. CST
btw who or what the hell are the two other people on the cover of Teen Titans#0?
by sonnyhooper
They look God freaking awful. Like so awful even those z-level x-men related teams would reject them for membership. WTF? Are they from the Wildstorm universe or something? <p> I shall call them generic bio-armor girl and big purple brick hand boy. I bet their actual codenames are probably worse than that.
Sept. 26, 2012, 7:34 p.m. CST
Beats me...
by MattAdler
...they sure as hell weren't in this issue, and I'm not reading that book regularly.
Sept. 26, 2012, 10:20 p.m. CST
Red Robin is still a "Robin"
by Jawsh Murdock
I really don't understand the mentality behind people saying that Tim Drake wasn't really a Robin in the nu52 just because he chose to slightly alter the Robin name out of respect to the Robin who had come before him. Tim still wore the cape and had the "R" on his chest while sidekicking for Batman. Therefore, he was a "Robin." There are other changes that fairly substantial, but this isn't one of them. The only thing it does is take away Tim's "breaking out" moment where he switches from being Robin to becoming Red Robin ala Dick becoming Nightwing.
Sept. 26, 2012, 11:50 p.m. CST
It's not "people" saying it...
by MattAdler
It's DC. Lobdell and Didio have stated that because he was "Red Robin" he doesn't technically count as a Robin, so in their view Batman has only had 3 Robins.
Sept. 27, 2012, 8 a.m. CST
4 Robins No Denying
by optimous_douche
I think it was the BATMAN 0 back-up the one where Tim Drake, you know Red Robin was being chastised for being the school douche.... We then slide over to Jason Todd, and Dick Grayson and all three see the Bat Signal in the sky.. 3 + 1 =4
Sept. 27, 2012, 8:44 a.m. CST
If Matt Adler hates and never reads the books, then WHY did HE review them?
by R Howell
The Adler reviews are HANDS DOWN the LAZIEST and joyless reviews of any of the Assholes. I HATE when a reviewer makes broad, sweeping declarations about a subject they admit they aren't interested in and barely know anything about. While I can see where the #0 issues would be a good place for someone who is either not familiar or not a huge fan of the comics to jump into the story (at least for reviewing purposes) I am not sure if Adler's effort is up to the task.
Sept. 27, 2012, 8:46 a.m. CST
All sorts of contradictions
by MattAdler
But, they're even retconning their own New 52 stories... http://www.bleedingcool.com/2012/09/16/retconning-robin-out-of-teen-titans-1/
Sept. 27, 2012, 9:10 a.m. CST
by MattAdler
Sorry you don't like my reviews. I didn't "hate" any of the books; I find it odd that you would say that, given that I only gave negative reviews to 3 out of the 7 books I reviewed this week (Aquaman I was on the fence with). The rest I very much enjoyed. As for the rest of your comment... what broad, sweeping generalizations did I make? I also didn't say that I "never read" the books... I am regularly following Batman Inc, and I have dipped in here and there with Aquaman, the Court of Owls stuff, Teen Titans, and JLD. The only books I haven't read before were Red Lanterns and Voodoo, and the former I am at least familiar with based on Geoff Johns' work. As to why I reviewed them... contrary to your assertion, I'm very interested in what DC is doing with the New 52, and for most of the books I reviewed here, I was very interested to see what they would do with the 0 issues (the two I wasn't too keen on, nobody else wanted to review!). I don't know what is supposedly "lazy" about these reviews, and if you're looking for "joy" as a requirement of reviews, you don't really want reviews, you want someone who already loves the books and is going cheerlead. If a comic causes me joy, I will say so, but the notion that a review is flawed because it lacks joy misses the point of reviewing. My sense is that I gave a bad review to a book you're enjoying. That shouldn't bother you, because my opinion doesn't override yours; if you like something, keep on enjoying it and don't worry about what I say.
Sept. 27, 2012, 9:20 a.m. CST
Matt Adler does not hate everything...
by Greg Nielsen
Besides, I'd rather read a funny review of something that irked someone than a boring review of nothing but praise.
Sept. 27, 2012, 9:27 a.m. CST
And the zero issues weren't very good...
by Homer Sexual
Honestly, if DC had started the New 52 with these zero issues, I would be buying very few. The best one was Amethyst, to me. Demon Knights was the only ongoing title that I thought benefitted from the 0 issue. Some of them were clearly so bad (Jonah Hex just retold stuff anyone who isn't new, knows, and Suicide Squad looked terrible) that I passed this month on half a dozen titles I would normally buy.
Sept. 27, 2012, 9:28 a.m. CST
I love kittens
by MattAdler
That counts, right?
Sept. 27, 2012, 9:56 a.m. CST
The Teen Titans Retconning..
by Poptard_JD
Yeah, that first one is blortch. Like there's a difference to people between Robin the Boy Wonder and Red Robin The Boy Wonder? what? He was a Robin. The one further down the page makes sense though, I remember reading that and going, oh OK, so there WAS a TT before this team..interesting. but then...NOPE.
Sept. 27, 2012, 10:54 a.m. CST
Superman #0
by Snookeroo
Jor-El is a wunderkind scientist, but has a rebellious streak that feels truly edgy. Like Cartman he "does what he wants" all with a wink, nod and middle finger aimed at the authoriti of Krypton
Sept. 27, 2012, 10:57 a.m. CST
Hmm...most of my post disappeared.
by Snookeroo
Go figure. Maybe next time.
Sept. 27, 2012, 11:23 a.m. CST
Jumping on Matt and giving him grief is a load of poop.
by 3774
Particularly with the 'if he doesn't read the books' comment. Half the time, half these guys never even bother reading the books they're supposed to review for the broadcast. As far as the written reviews go, when did 'you have to be a preexisting fan to critique' become a rule? Isn't one of the points of determining the quality of writing and artwork gauging whether or not it's well done enough to captivate a new reader? Optimus left me shaking my head several times this week. Usually it's in an amused way, but this time was just disappointment. You pointedly made you feelings clear on the concept and book of Team 7 last week, and how it had no point. With the creator guesting, you didn't follow up on this at all. Were you just being politely silent? Were you in a bad mood last week? Did he say something to change your mind? Was it a combination of two or more things? I was left with 'guh-wuh?' On I side note, I would have given just about anything to ask about the DC conversation (if any) and decision over Amanda Waller's weight portrayal. That would be comedy in motion. Let the the phrase 'mommy blogger' go. You've used it 7 times now, for something that took place over a year ago. It makes you look sadly bitter, beating a dead horse. You and the industry, as usual, 'won'. Isn't that enough? 'Vagina racist' made me laugh myself to tears. Seriously, thank you for that. I've been having a bad week, and needed a moment like that. It's in my vocabulary now. Bug came off as weirdly-hostile to Womanthology: Space. I found that very interesting.
Sept. 27, 2012, 11:51 a.m. CST
by optimous_douche
I couldn't get a damn word in edge-wise. I try very hard not to talk over the other chaps, it makes JD's life hell in the editing sweet. So, I wait until people are done talking. But if the conversation has moved on I let my point go for the fluidity of the show. There's no Optimous in team work. I've only used Mommy Blogger 7 times??? Fuck. I'm 23 behind quota for end of year. Need to step-up in Q4.
Sept. 27, 2012, 11:53 a.m. CST
by optimous_douche
Please finish, I'm intrigued to where you were going.
Sept. 27, 2012, 12:23 p.m. CST
by MattAdler
**Half the time, half these guys never even bother reading the books they're supposed to review for the broadcast.** Haha, I'm not sure if that's supposed to be in my defense or not! In all seriousness, I try to read all the books, and if I haven't gotten to one, I generally keep my mouth shut about it. I probably didn't weigh in as much as I should have during the Justin Jordan segment, but I got distracted by someone messaging me with a disturbing comics rumor that thankfully turned out not to be true.
Sept. 27, 2012, 2:26 p.m. CST
by Snookeroo
Feeling a little under the weather today, so just the abbreviated version... Agreed with your assessment of the Superman issue. Thought that was a good description of Joe-El's personality - and in particular I like that Lobdell gives Joe-El a personality not unlike the original Siegel Superman. Also, don't know what you do for a living, but it's obvious that you have a substantive background in writing. Not that I don't appreciate the effort from all the @$$holes, but the contrast is pretty obvious most days. Although JD's diatribe about Wally West was good for a larf. Just sayin'.
Sept. 27, 2012, 2:27 p.m. CST
Jor-El, not Joe-El. Dammit.
by Snookeroo
Edit button, anyone?
Sept. 27, 2012, 3:50 p.m. CST
Thx Snook
by optimous_douche
And I'm a corporate writing whore... I've been doing B2B marketing for 15 years. I have my own Graphic Novel coming out next year though, with art by BottleImp. Com.X is publishing us. Soooo...if you like my schtuff, maybe you likee the graphic novel.
Sept. 27, 2012, 4:03 p.m. CST
Oh, and btw....
by 3774
...kittens are ALWAYS relevant. Because, kittens.
Sept. 27, 2012, 10:36 p.m. CST
by Snookeroo
Congrats, man - be sure to let us know when your comic comes out; I'm especially jazzed that it's digital, since that's my format of choice; in any case, I'll be sure to get a copy, just 'cuz.
Top Talkbacks
- Is DOCTOR STRANGE coming to us in July 2016?!! -- 287 total posts 91 posts
- Meet Bigfoot in this New Clip from EXISTS! -- 128 total posts 33 posts
- DESTINY 'Raids' Have Begun!! More Events Coming Soon!! -- 93 total posts 16 posts
- 3rd PICKS & PEEKS of Sept 2014: Crichton Blus, THE PARTY, Bloody Entertainment, GODZILLA 3D & More!!! -- 627 total posts 15 posts
- Fox, Home Of GOTHAM, Makes Pilot Commitment To Project Based On DC Comics' LUCIFER!! -- 70 total posts 11 posts
- Are you ready for THE GHOST DIMENSION!?! The new PARANORMAL ACTIVITY film gets a title and a release date!! -- 83 total posts 8 posts
- Capone credits Dan Stevens' performance as the key to THE GUEST being all kinds of twisted goodness!!! -- 6 total posts 6 posts
- A New Trailer For Robert Downey Jr's THE JUDGE!! -- 64 total posts 5 posts
- More Details On The Upcoming And Promising ALIEN: ISOLATION Game!! 'Survivor Mode'!! -- 80 total posts 5 posts
- Hercules Says The Prognosis For Fox's New GLEE-ish Hospital Hourlong RED BAND SOCIETY Is Not Very Good At All!! -- 9 total posts 3 posts

subset: commoncrawl


text:
What Are You Getting Your Mom For Mother's Day?
What Are You Getting Your Mom For Mother's Day?
by DearSugar 37 Reactions 0 Shares Print
Since Mother's Day is all about showing our moms how much they mean to us, giving a thoughtful gift is really important. Unfortunately, even if we know all the things our mothers love most, coming up with something original and meaningful can be incredibly tricky. I always find that finding something you can do together — like concert tickets, spa treatments, or a home-cooked meal — is a great gift for this particular occasion. So what are you getting your mom this year? Please share for those of us still scrambling for a great idea!
Mother's Day
snowysakurasky 6 years
thanks for the tip, tidal wave. i always love an excuse to hit the mall. i got my mom a handbag as hers was kind of deteriorating
Zero_Cool 6 years
I'm currently studying jewelry, so I made her a ring! And then I engraved it with a special message. I just hope I made it so that it fits her!!!
LuvLeoDiCaprio 6 years
Spa day, I'm excited we are getting hot stone massages can't wait :0
aimeeb 6 years
Her birthday is the day before so it'll be busy!!
jadenirvana 6 years
I am going with the Sephora Breakfast in Bed set http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P208313&searchString=philosophy%20breakfast%20in%20bed and also making her an online family tree on www.sampa.com. I got the idea from this lady at my work, and it looks really cute!
Colleeninator 6 years
I'm thinking about making her tiramisu. She loves it, but I don't usually make it, because as far as desserts go, it's incredibly time consuming and complicated to make.
Lyv 6 years
A new phone! Hers is embarassingly outdated.
emalove 6 years
Jewelry, some flowers, and my dad, sister, and I are making her a nice dinner.
lindholmka 6 years
I'm giving her a gift certificate to go camping with my dad. They love being outdoors and doing the whole camping thing. She'll love it. I'm also going to buy her some sort of plant that she can plant in her flower garden. I like the idea someone gave about making a CD with all her favorite songs on it. That would be sweet! :-)
leeluvfashion 6 years
A mix cd with songs for summertime; and I'll probably bake some of the chocolate chip cookies she likes along w/ cooking dinner with her.
juliex0x0 6 years
I got her a ceramic hair straightener - it's taken her a while to get used to me using mine, but now she is ready :)
MissMeow 6 years
Money is very very tight for me right now, and my mom knows it, and probably doesn't expect anything but a card. But I managed to pick up some overtime, so I'm going to get her a nice gift set from Sephora. I haven't decided which one yet. She loves makeup, and always asks me for tips, so I think she'll really enjoy it.
Random2 6 years
I made my mom a large felted tote, and my sister and I filled it with travel related goodies she'll need for her trip in July.
Greentea1203 6 years
I'll probably just text message my mom on the day. We don't really do much in our family on days like that--plus we live in different states.
lily8206 6 years
We're doing brunch with the family to celebrate Mother's day not only with my mom, but her mom as well. Because we're going to be spending the day with my grandmother and family my sister and I will be taking her to the spa the following weekend (but she'll find out about it Sunday).
lily8206 6 years
We're doing brunch with the family to celebrate Mother's day not only with my mom, but her mom as well. Because we're going to be spending the day with my grandmother and family my sister and I will be taking her to the spa the following weekend (but she'll find out about it Sunday).
mnp 6 years
My sisters and I are sending some exotic flower arrangements to my mom's work so she can show off to her co-workers and I am taking her to dinner on Sunday. That's pretty much it.
bellaressa 6 years
I took my mom to Victoria secret (she never been) and had her measured last week and we picked her up some much needed undergarments. Love the lady but she was wearing the wrong bra, I had to trick her to go in the store with me. I am also, taking her for dinner on Saturday evening and spending the day with her and the fam on Sunday.
skigurl 6 years
her birthday wasn't too long ago, and we bought her presents and a gift cert. to a spa, but her favorite thing was a gift card to her favorite crafty home store, so we're going to all pitch in and give her a larger gift card this time. plus make her dinner and maybe clean the house ;)
Sun_Sun 6 years
im going to toronto from chicago to be with her, im taking her out for brunch. my mom always buys us designer things and spends money on us but never thinks shes worth spending her money on. shes been eyeing coach purses recently but thinks they're too much. i bought her two i love my mom :D
secretallstar 6 years
We made my mom and my mother-in-law a batch of homemade pasta and a quart of sauce to go with it. And flowers, of course.
bluebird 6 years
I live in Kentucky for school, so I'm driving up to Chicago (eight hours! EEP!) to surprise my mom. She doesn't know I'm coming, and my sister and I are excited to surprise her and take her out to dinner : )
bbkf 6 years
A card. We don't do gifts in my family, which is nice because I don't have to try to think of something to get everyone, and you don't end up with stuff you don't want. One can only have so many picture frames and scented candles...
lawchick 6 years
Bisque, that exploding box of pictures sounds AWESOME!
bchicgrl 6 years
I'm just sending her a cute flower arrangement and car as my mom lives on the other side of the country.
lovelie 6 years
I am getting my mom a gift certificate to her favorite greenhouse in the area and making her an awesome seafood dinner :)
citizenkane 6 years
I bought her 2 camisoles (sp?) from The Limited. I like helping her along in the clothes department, haha.
TidalWave 6 years
I wanted to give a tip for anyone else out there who doesn't spend Mother's Day with their mom's for whatever reason... that morning is a great time to go shopping! Since a lot of restaurant's are busy with mother's day breakfasts and stuff and you can still find good sales at most of the stores.
Bisque 6 years
Oh man, so many people are getting great stuffs for their mom. I feel a bit ashamed now, I was hoping to make her an exploding box filled with pictures of the family and a small cake I made myself. Now I think I'll give her that plus a trip to the spa. :D
lms 6 years
I am taking her to brunch as well. I will let her pick something out at a store that she wants. I always offer her spa treatments and she refuses b/c she says that she doesn't want anyone touching her.
WhatTheFrockBlog 6 years
I am taking her out to brunch and then we are going to get pedicures.
Shopaholichunny 6 years
I'm not sure yet. I want to do a spa day with her and also get her a giftcard to her FAVE store WorldMarket.
lawchick 6 years
Cooking a fabulous steak dinner for her! Last year I cooked for her and also gave her a big potted plant thing (I bought the pot and filled it with cool plants).
Lovely_1 6 years
I am gettign her a Sephora Gift Card :) She lves the place, and I am sure she will lvoe spending her card even more ;)
kikidawn 6 years
My sister and I are going in together and giving her a mother-daughters ring. It has the birthstones of mom, my sister, and me. She already has a mother's ring that has all four kids' birthstones on it. I've thought about the spa thing too :) Not entirely sure about that though.
CoconutPie 6 years
Normally I don't get her anything (we don't do things like mother's day, father's day,...) but this year I'm giving her a ticket to go with me to an event because my husband has to be away. It'll be nice to spend a day together.
arbywhopper 6 years
I'm taking my mom to a spa day, and while were there I also had her a mothers ring made. So I will give that to her while we are there!
Link Love
- "Is it bad that I keep nudging my boyfriend to propose?" — The Frisky
- This teen mom was coerced into giving up her child for adoption — xoJane
- 8 reasons women don't have children — HuffPost Women
- We dare you to try these 5 sex positions — AskMen
- 18 rules that can lead you to better sex — CollegeCandy
- Being a phone sex operator is not as sexy as you might think — Cracked
- 15 thoughts you've definitely had while flirting — Her Campus


text:
Suspect arrested in connection with McMinnville rental scam
Suspect accused of bilking would-be renters out of their money
Aug 15, 2013
By Paul Daquilante
Of the News-Register
That's because she and her boyfriend, Tim Colvin; her two children, 20-year-old Ranisha and 17-year-old Neriah; her brother, Allan; and her nephew, Eric, have no permanent place of residence.
It wasn't supposed to be this way. Not at all.
"We had a mother-in-law and a brother-in-law living with us (in McMinnville)," Foster said. "They moved out. The house we were living in was too big, so we found this other place."
It was a three-bedroom, two-bathroom home with a double-car garage at 242 S.W. Manzanita St. in McMinnville. A woman Foster knows lives next door and told her it was a rental and available. Foster said she spoke with someone who identified himself as Jerry Carpenter, the homeowner. He told her the rent was $975 a month.
"I talked with him July 27th," Foster said. "I gave him $1,950 on the 29th. I was supposed to give him another $500 on Aug. 1, the day we were going to move in. I called him on the first, left a message and he didn't get back to me.
"Between the first and the seventh of the month, I called every day and left a message. He's never called back. On the seventh, I knew something wasn't right and went to the police. They said they had already been notified by others (who had reported a similar experience)."
Foster said the first time she talked to Carpenter, before he went missing with her money, he told her he was dying of cancer and only had about a year to live. He said a relative was going to assume control of his rental properties after he died.
When Foster could not reach him, she said she was willing to give him the benefit of the doubt, in part, because of his physical condition.
"When I was trying to get ahold of him, I called all the area hospitals, to see if he had been admitted," Foster said. "Now, I feel like an idiot."
Carpenter is also known as Jerry Rosenstiel and McMinnville police have launched a full-scale investigation into his activities.
"He's a creep," Foster said. "We're just hoping someone turns him in. That's our goal."
Sgt. Tim Symons of the McMinnville police said the house is owned by Andrew O. Davids, but police have not been able to contact him. They are unsure of his whereabouts.
Foster said Davids and Carpenter are business partners and she has learned the house is in pre-foreclosure, which the police have been unable to confirm, according to Symons.
About 18 victims have filed reports with the police. Their losses total $18,000.
Some of the victims said they had concerns with the way the transactions were handled by the suspect and they became suspicious that they might be getting scammed.
Police said their investigation has revealed that the suspect is an alleged long term con man who has been involved in numerous scams over the past several years, according to Symons.
Those who believe they have been victimized or have information regarding the suspects whereabouts should contact Sgt. Cully Desmond or officer Sam Elliott at the Yamhill Communications Agency non-emergency number, 503-434-6500.
Only News-Register subscribers can access this premium content.
To subscribe, click here. Daily, weekly, monthly and annual subscriptions available; Starting at just $2.
Already an online subscriber, please sign in:
Would you like to comment on this article?
Only online subscribers may comment on articles. Click here to see how you can subscribe.
Already a subscriber, please log in
Note: Some articles do not accept comments at all.
• Amity man reported missing (7327)
• Pro and Con on Measure 88 — Alternative driver's license for undocumented immigrants (2636)
• County's economic development efforts questioned (2551)
• Leaping ability (2039)
• Highway 99W through Dundee has reopened (2031)
• Heavy rain on the way as fall's arrival brings first storm (1932)
• Inmate recaptured after brief flight (1927)
• Sheriff's union endorses Casey (1810)
• Amity runs past Sheridan (1741)
• Sheriff's union endorses Casey (20)
• Pro and Con on Measure 88 — Alternative driver's license for undocumented immigrants (11)
• Pain summit to address opioid abuse (6)
• County's economic development efforts questioned (5)
• Pro and Con on Measure 91 - Legalizing recreational marijuana (3)
• Not guilty plea in Oregon work-release homicide (3)
• Bypass work full-bore (2)
• Girl videos pair of assaults (2)
• Who will be our next filbert expert? (1)


text:
Secure-Fit Laptop Protection
Adjustable compartment snugly holds your laptop for a perfect fit and ultimate protection.
(based on 27 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
5 Stars
4 Stars
3 Stars
2 Stars
1 Stars
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Reviewed by 27 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-10
Back to top
Previous | Next »
(0 of 10 customers found this review helpful)
This Case is Perfect for ...
By CHARLES W
from Brevard, NC
This Case is Perfect for my Sony VAIO AW 18" plus size. It allows me to carry everything when we travel plus our Mi-Fi products. Charles P. III North Carolina
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Was this review helpful? Yes / No
- You may also flag this review
(1 of 15 customers found this review helpful)
The velcro strap is nice ...
By LARRY
from Urbandale, IA
The velcro strap is nice to keep the laptop secure. I also like the ability to securely attach it to roller luggage. The one thing I would do to improve the bag would be bigger pockets in the front for small items and ability to zip up the inner pockets, so items don't get as jumbled together.
Nice case. This is my ...
By RHONDA
from Ellisville, MS
Nice case. This is my third case. It is light and great when in flight.
(21 of 59 customers found this review helpful)
This was the ONLY case I ...
By PETER
from San Jose, CA
This was the ONLY case I could find that is large enough to take my Toshiba X505-Q880 laptop, which I use for on-the-go digital photo processing.The case provides a superbly cushioned space for the large, heavy, laptop while the additional compartment takes the power brick and oddments very nicely.IMHO, a minor improvement would be to use a snap fitting for the shoulder strap, but there is no doubt the present fitting does leave a far neater appearance after the strap has been removed than if D rings and snaps had been used. Because of this, I tend to not use the shoulder strap, as it is a little awkward to instal/remove it. The case handle is extremely comfortable, even when the case contains my heavy laptop and accessories.
(19 of 63 customers found this review helpful)
I generally like the bag ...
By TIMOTHY
from Rochester, NY
I generally like the bag it is the only one I found able to carry the new 18.4-inch HP laptops. The strap also appears to be very sturdy and well attached, which is the Achilles Heel for any laptop bag. My only criticism is that I wish it had more space for travel incidentals--paper files, keys, paperback books, and other items that people typically take on trips and need to store in a carry-on bag. The extra space in this bag is very limited.
(18 of 63 customers found this review helpful)
This case was a good ...
By JENNIFER
from Salem, OR
This case was a good solution to the challenge of finding a case large enough for our 18.3 Dell laptop. This case fits the laptop and provides good protection. The padded enclosure has Velcro on flaps so it can fit laptops of various sizes, and is better than envelopes that are sometimes too tight. The outside of the case is well padded also. The case has enough space to carry files or papers with the laptop, and the padded enclosure protects the laptop from scratches. It is a little hard to load the laptop into the case unless the case is flat on a surface.
(18 of 43 customers found this review helpful)
design : ****comfort : ...
By HWANWOONG
from Conway, AR
design : ****comfort : *****safety : *****Case logic can hold my heavy 18.4 inch laptop as well.case logic make me feel light, it doesn't feel like that im carrying 18 inch laptop.overall awesome.
(16 of 54 customers found this review helpful)
Just very awkward how to ...
By STAN
from League City, TX
Just very awkward how to put the computer in and take it out. Not very user friendly
(22 of 62 customers found this review helpful)
I was looking for that ...
By MICHEL
from Deerfield beach, FL
I was looking for that case since 1 year,to carry my large laptop in my carr and i am verry verry sastified.
(20 of 31 customers found this review helpful)
It's a nifty case. Just ...
By JOHN
from Lancaster, CA
It's a nifty case. Just the right size for my 17.3 laptop. Price from the company, as opposed to other places on the Internet, was a little high, but getting it direct from the company is something I do for purposes of easy resolution of potential issues.
Email Newsletter
Sign up to receive exclusive offers and promotions
Where To Buy
Company Information
Our Story
Corporate Contacts
Privacy Statement
Follow Us


text:
On-Site Ski Rental
Christy Sports has teamed with the Mountain Lodge as their official Telluride Ski rental shop. Now located in the Mountain Lodge at Telluride, it is conveniently situated in the Ski-in/Ski-out resort to enhance the overall experience of all guests.
To pre-order your rental equipment, please go online at www.christysports.com.
Retail Offering:
- Large selection of Alpine ski gear and snow board equipment available at the lowest prices
- Ski and snowboard clothing for men, women, juniors, and toddlers
- Accessories such as goggles, gloves, helmets, and sunglasses
- Christy Sports demo program allows customers to try ski and snowboard equipment before purchasing
- Knowledgeable staff available to answer any questions
- Door 2 Door, by Christy Sports is a full ski and snowboard rental delivery service
- Kids rent free for each five day adult ski rental purchase
Lift Tickets
For the utmost in convenience, purchase your lift tickets before you arrive at Mountain Lodge at Telluride to avoid the lines and have more time for shushing down the slopes. Lift tickets and various discounts and deals can be purchased through a variety of vendors including Ski Telluride. Don't miss out on Colorado vacation packages perfect for a family getaway or special holiday at the Mountain Lodge at Telluride.
Visit our Ski Trails page to view information and statistics on Telluride Ski Area as the premier skiing establishment in the nation.
Early Season
November 28th - December 20th, 2013
Holiday Season
December 21st - January 4th, 2014
Feb 15 - Feb 22nd, 2014
March 8 - March 22nd, 2014
Regular Season
Jan 5 - Feb 14th, 2014
Feb 23rd - March 7th, 2014
March 23rd - April 6, 2014
Ski Trails
Skiable Terrain
2,000+ acres (810+ hectacres)
Longest Run
4.6 miles (7.4 km) - "Galloping Goose"
Total Trails
Trail Difficulty
23% Beginner
36% Intermediate
41% Advanced / Expert
Total Lifts
18 Total: 2 high-speed gondolas,
7 high-speed quads, 1 fixed quad, 2 triples,
2 doubles, 2 surface lifts and 2 magic carpets


text:
ICBA Marketing & PR Resources
As a member of the ICBA, you have access to no-cost resources that educate your customers, promote best practices, and tout the benefits of being a customer of an independently owned community bank. In some cases, you can actually customize materials on line and order highly discounted printing services, too.
Go Local
Public Relations/Communications
News Releases for Local Use
Op Eds for Local Use
Financial Literacy Resources
Letter to the Editor
Advocacy/Public Policy
SAMPLE Consumer News Releases
Wall Street Reform Act
Economic Recovery Central
National Community Bank Service Awards
Nomination Form and Additional Information


text:
raloxifene, Evista
Medical Author:
Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD
Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD
Dr. Ogbru received his Doctorate in Pharmacy from the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy in 1995. He completed a Pharmacy Practice Residency at the University of Arizona/University Medical Center in 1996. He was a Professor of Pharmacy Practice and a Regional Clerkship Coordinator for the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy from 1996-99.
Medical and Pharmacy Editor:
Jay W. Marks, MD
Jay W. Marks, MD
Jay W. Marks, MD, is a board-certified internist and gastroenterologist. He graduated from Yale University School of Medicine and trained in internal medicine and gastroenterology at UCLA/Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.
GENERIC NAME: raloxifene
BRAND NAME: Evista
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Estrogen is a hormone which among other actions, regulates the turnover (formation and destruction) of bone. Decreases in estrogen levels that are seen after menopause or after removal of the ovaries, lead to a loss of bone density and weakened bones, a condition called osteoporosis. Raloxifene decreases bone turnover and increases bone density although not to the same extent as estrogen itself. This makes bones stronger and prevents fractures in women with osteoporosis. Raloxifene is called a "selective estrogen receptor modulator" since it has effects like estrogen on some tissues but inhibits the effects of estrogen on other tissues. Raloxifene decreases low density lipoprotein (LDL or "bad") cholesterol in the blood; however, unlike estrogen, raloxifene does not increase high density lipoprotein (HDL or "good") cholesterol. The FDA approved raloxifene in December 1997.
PRESCRIPTION: Yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: No
PREPARATIONS: Tablets: 60 mg.
STORAGE: Tablets should be stored between 15C-30 C) and (59-86 F).
PRESCRIBED FOR: Raloxifene is prescribed for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in post-menopausal women. Supplemental vitamin D should be added to the diet if daily intake is not adequate.
DOSING: The recommended dose of raloxifene is 60 mg once daily. It can be taken with or without meals.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Cholestyramine (Questran) reduces the absorption of raloxifene. Therefore, these two medications should be taken several hours apart. Raloxifene may slightly reduce the ability of blood to clot and thus increase the effects of medications that reduce clotting (blood thinners). Therefore, if raloxifene is given with blood thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin), the ability of blood to clot may need to be monitored more closely with frequent measurements of the prothrombin time of blood.
PREGNANCY: Raloxifene may cause fetal harm if used during pregnancy and should not be used during pregnancy or in women who may become pregnant.
NURSING MOTHERS: Raloxifene should not be used by women who are breastfeeding.
SIDE EFFECTS: The most common side effects of raloxifene are diarrhea, nausea, headache, hot flashes, sinusitis, weight gain, muscle pain, leg cramps, and ankle swelling. Raloxifene may increase blood triglyceride levels in some individuals Raloxifene increases the risk of blood clots, including stroke, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and pulmonary embolism (blood clots in the lung). The greatest increase in risk occurs during the first 4 months of use. Patients taking raloxifene should avoid prolonged periods of restricted movement during travel when blood clots are more prone to occur. Patients should move around periodically during long trips.
Reference: FDA Prescribing Information
Last Editorial Review: 4/25/2012
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
Need help identifying pills and medications?
Back to Medications Index


text:
Which Retail Stock Is Right for Your Portfolio?
Ben is a member of The Motley Fool Blog Network -- entries represent the personal opinion of the blogger and are not formally edited.
Following the hoopla over Black Friday and the rest of the holiday shopping zaniness, retail stores must refocus and adapt to the end of the busiest shopping time of the year. I want to take a look back at the year that was 2012 for three brand name retail companies and what their prospects look like moving forward.
Urban Outfitters (NASDAQ: URBN)
Shares of Urban Outfitters were up 42% this past year as this lifestyle specialty retail store increased sales for the 4th quarter in all four of its divisions. This is great news for Urban Outfitters and on top of that same store sales have increased and posted two straight quarters of double digit earnings growth. Looking ahead, analysts have this company increasing earnings by almost 40% for the next year.
Gap (NYSE: GPS)
Gap's domestic same store sales for the most recent quarter were 6%, handily beating the analysts' estimates of 4.5%. Firming up their Old Navy division was a big reason for this sales improvement. They experienced a decline in international same store sales of 6% for the second straight year. But their pending acquisition of boutique luxury retailer Intermix bodes well for future sales by providing an entry into the luxury market. This acquisition is not currently reflected in Gap's stock price. However several analysts expect earnings to grow close to 50% for the coming year, which should ultimately have a positive impact on the stock price.
Abercrombie & Fitch (NYSE: ANF)
Unlike the other two companies Abercrombie & Fitch did not have a banner year as the stock only gained 4% to date. This specialty retailer which focuses on casual apparel for men, women and kids has the lowest return on equity and return on assets of the three retailers. This indicates inefficient management. Be that as it may I see a light at the end of the tunnel and most analysts tend to agree as they estimate growth earnings for the coming year at approximately 29%.
The Numbers
1 Year Stock Performance
My Foolish Take
Based on the valuation metrics, it is clear that Urban Outfitters is effectively managing their stores much more efficiently then Gap and Abercrombie. They also have the highest revenue growth of the three. But last years returns clearly show that Gap outperformed Abercrombie and Urban Outfitters by a significant amount. Further Gap is more diversified, has a larger market share and an inexpensive valuation. If I was looking to add a retail stock to my portfolio, the Gap would be my first choice.
gomonkies23 has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Is this post wrong? Click here. Think you can do better? Join us and write your own!


text:
Most everything in the town of Aspen is slow and mellow in the off-season. The two months between closing weekend of the mountain and the kick off of summer's festivals is a joy for locals and vacationers alike; it's a treasured time to enjoy uncrowded restaurants and a leisurely vibe about town. Despite the mellow scene about town, the music is alive and kicking this off-season, with multiple shows from top talents coming to town. Over two dozen amazing acts will hit the Aspen music season between now and mid-June, with everything from rock to reggae gracing Aspen's favorite in-town stages.
The Belly Up! doesn't miss a beat in May with acts lined up almost nightly. Beginning May 19, Bobaflex flexes their muscles with hard- core gritty metal and tunes like "Hell in My Heart and "Bury Me With My Guns On" for a not-so subtle end to the week on this Sunday night. Following up on May 21, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club takes the stage with their brand of San Francisco style Southern folk rock while blasting out samples from their most recent album, Beat the Devil's Tattoo. Joining them at BellyUp! on the 21st, is the new no2, a collective effort of talented artists who have worked with recording legends such as George Harrison, Coldplay and Ben Harper. They put forth a sound that "artfully blends psychedelia, dub, reggae, and electronica into a deeply inventive and irresistibly dreamy sound that Harrison labels 'grunge 'n' bass' or 'Hawaiian dub-hop'." Capital Cities' Dancing With Strangers Tour, the pop-rock group dubbed "the best band in LA" by social blogger Perez Hilton, headlines May 22 with their brand of infectious dance-inducing pop. The rhythmically talented Australian quintet Gold Fields joins Capital Cities for a night to be remembered. Closing out the week are 3 free shows- aka no cover- over Memorial Day weekend: One Drop with 21 Dread on May 23, Local Artists' Showcase on May 25 and Afrolicious on May 26. On Memorial Day May 27, swing by Hotel Jerome's Garden Terrance from12-3 there for live music by Salem, $3 beers and a classic Memorial Day cookout.
The last week of May has another 5 amazing back-to-back shows, beginning May 27 with Sons of Fathers broad spectrum American rock. Then on May 28, do not miss the chance to see the man dubbed "The Godfather of Gangsta Rap", Ice Cube. One of the first (1990), and most successful, R&B/ rap artists of all time, Ice Cube is enjoying his new generation of success after returning to the mic 6 years ago. Switching gears the next night, Billboard World Music chart-topper Bombino performs his incredible style of Northern-African influenced soulful tribal sound. Bop Skizzum on May 30 jolts the Belly Up with "alternative pop-rock vibe with groove-based funk, dance and hip-hop influences, creating an invigorating blend of unique instrumentation and phenomenal vocals". Friday May 31 folk vocalist master Ruthie Foster takes the stage at 8:30, followed by a no-cover late show at 10:30 from JJ Berkel Beats. In the first part of June, look forward to upcoming BellyUp! shows from Sublime tributarians 40 Oz to Freedom, on June 1, Anuhea on June 6, Shakedown Street June 8, Don Carlos on June 11 and The Dandy Warhols June 12. Ticket information is available here.
The Wheeler Opera House welcomes 2 huge shows before the summer is in full swing, both slated for June. First off is the Bobby Mason Alive Concert on Saturday June 8. The evening celebrates the vibrant life of Bobby Mason, an Aspen local transplanted from Hollywood who one year ago battled through open heart surgery to live and continue his wonderful music career. Bobby has recorded and performed with legends such as Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, John Denver and Black Pearl. Joining him on on June 8 will be several other fabulous local musicians. Thursday June 13 you don't want to miss The Fabulous Thunderbirds, who have been entertaining America with iconic blues and rock for over 30 years. This night will be extra special as it is the last performance before The Wheeler's closure for a remodel- the dance floor will be ready to rock! Click here for ticket information. Spend a few days this off season relaxing and soaking up the sun and sounds of Aspen!


text:
Is the industry ready for LTE?
This next-generation wireless technology has arrived, but how long will it take for all the pieces of the LTE ecosystem to fall into place and for 4G to live up to its promise?
Industry News
Briefing Room
Long-term evolution officially ceased being long term a little more than a month ago.
It was then, just around the turn of the new year, that TeliaSonera launched the first two LTE networks in the capitals of Sweden and Norway, beating even the industrys most optimistic estimates of when LTE would go commercial. Here in the U.S., Verizon Wireless and MetroPCS are set to follow in the back half of the year, as is NTT DoCoMo in Japan. It wont be long before long-term evolution begins to recede in the rearview mirror.
LTE has finally arrived, but what does that mean exactly? Will a revolution in mobile data services occur overnight, or are we only at the beginning of protracted developmental process that will make long-term evolution live up to its name?
When 3G first emerged at the beginning of the millennium, the industry preceded it with an enormous build up of hype upon which it utterly failed to deliver. Almost a decade later, the industry can now claim to have lived up to 3Gs promise, but only after delivering more powerful 3G networks and years of trial and error with applications and devices. For the first several years of their existence, UMTS and 1X networks were basically glorified voice networks. 4G, too, has suffered from similar hype, but this time around the industry has been far more restrained in its claims. While 3Gs hype centered largely on technology, boasting about 4G centers on concepts like cost-per-bit efficiencies, greater capacity per user and better customer experience. 4G may eventually turn the industry on its head, but right now it seems mainly to be about a better way of delivering data services.
Verizon Wireless will have one of the worlds first large-scale LTE networks in the world with plans to networks cover 25 to 30 markets and 100 million pops by the end of 2010. The networks will be readythats almost a certainty but whether all of the other pieces that go into making an LTE service hum will fall in line is a bit harder to gauge. It depends on what question you ask, said Brian Higgins, VZW executive director for LTE ecosystem development.
If the question is: will Verizon Wireless be able to offer relatively straightforward commercial mobile broadband access service via laptop data cards, then the answer is definitely yes, Higgins said. To meet that goal, Verizon Wireless and its vendor partners have had to cover a lot of new ground not only deploying new radio access and core networks, implementing a service delivery architecture and upgrading capacity in its backhaul and transport, but also introducing a new subscriber identity module (SIM)-based billing and subscriber management system as well as work with manufacturers to ensure it has devices available. All of those elements have fallen into their proper place, Higgins said, allowing Verizon to offer simple broadband access from day one.
But if the question is whether a new mobile broadband revolution, complete with a myriad of new devices, applications and use cases, will emerge on day 1, then the answer, Higgins said is no. The first set of devices are going to be dongles, which will be used with the types of data plans customers are already used to, Higgins said. But when it comes to the new services and devices 4G is expected to shepherd into the wireless industry, that will take some time, Higgins said.
Verizon and its ecosystem partners are just beginning to explore the possibility for new devices and applications over 4G, and hes not just talking about phones with better data connections. While some smartphones will invariably make their way to LTE network, the new generation of devices could come in any number of form factors, which could range from video devices that take advantage of LTEs wide open pipe to machine-to-machine modules that dont need massive bandwidth but can take advantage of LTEs lower cost of data delivery. It will be more of an iterative process, Higgins said. The trickiest problems will be with embedded solutions that dont necessarily need to take advantage of higher throughput but could benefit from a more efficient network.
MetroPCS is targeting its LTE launch for the same time period as Verizon, but its plans for that network differs greatly from Verizons. Metro plans to use the 4G network much the way other operators use their 3G networks, offering smartphones and data plans. If it is looking more toward the short term benefits of 4G, Metro has a good reason. It has no 3G mobile broadband data network over which to offer those services today. Metro has built CDMA 1X throughout its network, but never turned any of its 1X channels into EV-DO data channels, allowing it to offer narrowband data as well as voice, but not any higher-bandwidth services.
We saw that for the applications our customers were demanding, except for downloads and video streaming, our network was enough, said Roger Linquist, CEO of MetroPCS. LTE will give Metro the opportunity to offer this missing piece of the data puzzle as well as support future high-throughput apps, while allowing it to skip a generation jumping straight from 2G to 4G, Linquist said. I dont want to invest in a technology that well have to phase out in a few years. We see this approach as advantageous for us going forward from both a cost standpoint and an efficiency standpoint.
By moving directly from 1X to LTE, though, Metro is much more dependent on developing an immediate ecosystem of devices. Verizon can experiment with new devices and business models (its already begun with its LTE Innovation Lab, the first result of which was a connected home solution developed by 4Home and unveiled at CES). But Metro needs 3G devices for its 4G network. That means smartphones.
LTE-ready smart phones, however, will require not only dual-mode chipsets so they can fall back on Metros 1X network, but theyll need to have innards that are much more sophisticated than the silicon that goes into a USB card. Furthermore, handset vendors will also need the incentivemeaning the promise of volume salesto make them, incentives that took years to emerge for 3G networks. Linquist, however, is confident that development in the LTE world will be accelerated. While it wont be offering handsets at launch, MetroPCS has already selected Samsung as its primary handset partner and is expecting the Korean vendor to fully deliver on its promise of a dual-mode 2G-4G smartphones in the next 18 months.
Want to use this article? Click here for options!
© 2014 Penton Media Inc.
Learning Library
White Papers
Featured Content
of interest
The Latest
From the Blog
Join the Discussion
Get more out of Connected Planet by visiting our related resources below:
Connected Planet highlights the next generation of service providers, as well as how their customers use services in new ways.Subscribe Now


text:
Follow @ManUtd
Hargreaves: I'll...Owen Hargreaves tells ManUtd.com about his long battle to return.
Simmo shining on...Danny Simpson tells ManUtd.com about life on loan at Newcastle.
Fire still burns...Reds skipper Gary is as committed, loyal and ambitious as ever.
Interview: John...John has plenty more to achieve after passing 350 United...
Copyright, Manchester United Ltd, 2014 Photography provided by Manchester United Ltd and Getty Images


text:
Oct 3, 13 •
533 Views •
Developing Economies, Economic Growth, Economic History, Education, Government, Health Care, Households, International Trade and Finance, Macroeconomic Measurement •
Elaine Schwartz •
No Comments
How to assess African poverty? The Afrobarometer provides some answers that generated several perplexing questions. The African Development Bank tells us that growth rates for many African nations have been a robust 4.8%. However, the Afrobarometer has... [read more]
Jun 30, 13 •
306 Views •
Demand, Supply, and Markets, Economic Debates, Economic Growth, Economic History, Innovation, Labor, Macroeconomic Measurement, Regulation, Thinking Economically •
Elaine Schwartz •
No Comments
Having just enjoyed several weeks in Paris, a friend of mine returned to the US with huge applause for the French health care system. Several days later, she was delighted to see Robert Frank's NY Times column, "What Sweden Can Tell Us About... [read more]
Dec 20, 12 •
270 Views •
Developing Economies, Government, International Trade and Finance, Macroeconomic Measurement, Uncategorized •
Elaine Schwartz •
No Comments
Yesterday, the UN published a preview of its world economic outlook. While projections are always debatable, their graphs provide a snapshot of key economic issues. GDP Outlook: Oil Prices: Grain Prices: These projections and comments from a... [read more]
Oct 25, 12 •
522 Views •
Businesses, Demand, Supply, and Markets, Developing Economies, Education, Gender Issues, Health Care, Households, Labor, Macroeconomic Measurement, Uncategorized •
Elaine Schwartz •
No Comments
Name a nation. No matter which country you choose, you probably would see that women are underemployed. And still then, you would be looking only at the tip of the iceberg. Female labor force underutilization relates to a host of facts about a society that... [read more]
Jun 19, 12 •
210 Views •
Demand, Supply, and Markets, Developing Economies, Financial Markets, International Trade and Finance, Thinking Economically •
Elaine Schwartz •
No Comments
By Mira Korber, guest blogger. As the Panama City skyline emerged from my misty Wednesday morning flight window, I must say the view was impressive. A snaking coast boasts skyscraper after skyscraper, each seeming to outdo the previous in height and marvels... [read more]
©2014 econlife.com. All rights reserved.
Proudly powered by WordPress. Online by imago.