text:
According to The Associated Press, it appears that the Yahoo e-mail accounts of at least three journalists and an analyst have been hacked. However, PCWorld.com puts the number closer to eight foreign journalists working in China and Taiwan, while The New York Times says it was more than a dozen activists.
In any case, when the victims tried to access their accounts they received an automated message that read, "We have detected an issue with your account." One victim, whose service was restored, says the Yahoo representative told him that somebody had hacked into his registration details.
These attacks come on the heels of Google's decision to close its Google.cn site and redirect users to a non-censored search engine based in Hong Kong. However, it seems that China may be blocking that content as well. The Associated Press also reports that Google's Chinese search engine was intermittently blocked this week. Searches for benign terms brought up results on Chinese competitors such as Baidu.com and Soso.com, however, an error page would appear when the same terms were typed into Google.com.hk.
The disruptions could indicate that the Chinese government plans to block Google from the country completely and long-term.
A recent survey by Symantec showed that most of the targeted malware distributed in March came from China even though most of the e-mail servers used to push the scams were physically located in the U.S.
Goodbye google, China welcomes its first homegrown English search engine:
Beijing-in China, no more googling. Get ready for choogling!
Beijing-based CSR announces today the beta-test release of the first-ever international search engine, completely conceived and coded in China, and devised with the Chinese market in mind: www.choogling.com
The name, as it sounds, is a blend of China + googling = choogling. But choogling is derived from 'chu-ge,' (the sounds of a people surrounded by enemies) and 'ling' (clever, as in response to a sharp insult). Taken together, choogling is a clever retort to google and the world.
Choogling will offer fast, uncensored searches, using innovative switches to offer results that can either be authentic or in keeping with Chinese views. The new search engine will go online later this month, following extensive testing.
Choogling is the first in a line of integrated services, which will include ling-lingmail, a global positioning system (choogps), and an innovative social networking system synchronized across internet and mobile systems (ichoogling-think twitter, facebook and youtube, all banned in China, wrapped together).
Together with local partners, CSR plans to launch, later in the year, a new online encyclopedia with correct Chinese takes on current events and world history: chipedia
Complete details: http://chinareallysucks.com/Site/New_Stuff/New_Stuff.html
Interviews available with CSR director Mao Ze Wrong
Contact: firstname.lastname@example.com
Post a comment
Business performance information for strategic and operational decision-making
SOA uses interoperable services grouped around business processes to ease data integration
Data warehousing helps companies make sense of their operational data


text:
This is BULLYING AWARENESS MONTH on The Y94 Morning Playhouse. We are asking members of The Playhouse Family that have dealt with bullying to share their story to let others know that it does get better.
Young or old, bullying is never ok. Share your story by emailing Zero at email@example.com
All names can be changed to protect the author's identity --
This is Lisa's Story --
Do you have any idea what it is like to be "the fat girl"? To watch as other girls are asked to prom, have guys constantly flirt with them and you are practically invisible...
Honestly there were times I wish they couldn't see me. When you hear the snicker and laughter as you walk by. That sticks with you. Even after I lost the weight, I still had "fat girl brain". Scared to interact, scared to be extroverted.
Just because somebody is heavier than you, is not a reason to make them feel bad about themself. Why do you have more self worth or value than me? Because you workout? Because you eat more carrots than I do?
Fat does not equal less-than.
I would rather have a lot more pounds on me but be a better person inside, than be like you bullies, thin and ugly on the inside.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
CAL Degrees
To meet the unique educational needs of adults, Cincinnati Christian University offers degrees through the College of Adult Learning (CAL). CAL uses a year-round, one-night-a-week, accelerated format that is specifically designed for non-traditional adult students who seek a Bachelor of Science degree or to complete college work already started somewhere else and transform that into a Bachelor of Science degree.
There are four degree pathways in the program, each contains a robust biblical studies core, as well as majors in either Business Management or Christian Ministries. Students who select the Bachelor's degrees, also have the option of adding a Specialization in Organizational Leadership.
Bachelor's Degrees
Associate's Degrees


text:
El-Banna was often criticized by other Islamic scholars for his views, including that states should not be based on religions.
An Islamic Scholar criticized for his liberal religious views died at the age of 93 Tuesday.
Gamal El-Banna drew the ire of some Islamic scholars through his claims that wearing a veil is not a Muslim obligation and that Muslim women can marry Christian or Jewish men, Ahram Online reported.
The news website said El-Banna, the author of more than 50 books on Islam, politics, economics and trade unions, suffered from pneumonia for several weeks before his death. He was the younger brother of Muslim Brotherhood founder Hassan El-Banna.
El-Banna was a tireless advocate for his view of Islam.
In 2011, he criticized fundamentalist Salafists, who take a strict, literal approach to Islam. In the 2011 article in Ahram Online, El-Banna said the Salafists' way of thinking was outdated and a distortion of Islam.
That same year, El-Banna said in an Egypt Independent interview that states could not be founded on Islam because of differences in civilian and religious outlooks. He took on the Muslim Brotherhood in stating that a civil state should not be based on a religion.
In 2004, El-Banna was quoted by Fox News on the reform of Islamic laws regarding divorce. At that time, he said equal right to divorce should be a standard provision in marriage contracts and advocated for the criminalization of all forms of domestic violence.
In the 2004 article, El-Banna said, "Justice and fairness are the main sources of Sharia (Islamic law)."
MSN News on Facebook and Twitter
Stay up to date on breaking news and current events.
Friend us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/news.msn
Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/msnnews


text:
The Lake District is well known for its beautiful scenery, quaint market towns and picturesque villages. But dig a little deeper into the towns and villages throughout Cumbria and you might be surprised what you find. Use our guides to places to visit to help you plan your days out.
Upcoming events
|Sat 13 - Sun 28 Sep
|C Art Exhibition at Locations Throughout Cumbria
|Sat 20 Sep
|Egremont Crab Fair & World Gurning Championships at Egremont
|Sun 21 Sep
|Borrowdale Shepherds Meet & Show at Yew Tree Farm
|Sat 27 Sep
|Eskdale Show at Eskdale Showfield
|Sat 27 - Sun 28 Sep
|Taste Cumbria Food Festival at Cockermouth


text:
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Wow, there's so much to be said to that...
I'm a full Frost Mage, and I play it because I love the spec. Not out of necessity, but because it pwns extremely hard. Often times, I crit more than I don't, and with Ice Shards giving me 100% crit damage increase, my Frostbolts crit considerably higher than my Fireballs. Also, no one is ever going to kill something (of equal level) before it gets to aggro on you--not even a Fire Mage.
As a Frost Mage: at level 53, I killed a 60 warrior who was with a 52 warrior all on my own; at around level 60, I was able to beat a level 70 prot pally in a duel.
If you truly think Frost spec is inferior or boring, I think you've never been Frost spec.
Oh and BTW, I think I know the answer to your question about Mirror Image. I think the copies will be direct copies of the player, meaning they'll cast the same spells you cast, and thus going invisible when you do.


text:
We already knew that Mackenzie Douthit is totally preoccupied with losing weight, given that she recently bragged about losing three pounds in three days, but it appears as though her obsession with achieving a perfect post-baby bod is just getting started.
Remember how she was determined to get her abs back after the birth of her baby, Jaxie? Yeah, well now that she's achieved a six-pack once again, she's shifting her focus to ensure that another body part is toned and shapely.
Check out this tweet she posted a couple days ago.
Ive never liked my butt so much. Thank you squats. You work wonders
— Mackenzie McKee (@DouthitKenzie) May 13, 2014
Yep. Apparently doing squats is transforming her derriere -- not that she really needed any help in firming up that area.
Um, she may not realize it, but Mackenzie is teeny-tiny. And while I'm sure her goal in getting her squats on is to lift her butt a bit versus slim it down even more -- she really doesn't need to overdo it on the exercise -- especially given how young Jaxie is. Plenty of moms take the better part of a year to get their pre-baby figures back, so Mackenzie shouldn't put so much pressure on herself to bounce right back.
But then again, if working out like crazy is making her feel like herself again, then all I can say is more power to her -- as long as she doesn't become so obsessed with her body that she gets her priorities all out of line. (There are definitely better things to put all of your energy into is all I'm sayin'.)
Do you think Mackenzie is too obsessed with her figure?
Image via Instagram
No I don't. What she is currently doing is healthy both physically and emotionally. If there is a potential health risk or potential case of child neglect then she should slow down. Otherwise, she is doing fine.
After my second child, I worked out hard. And in "an amazingly short" time got my pre baby body back but I continued and now look even better than I did pre baby. The ting about working out is that once you are on track and are seeing changes, you find that it's easier to keep going. You want to tone your arms, then work out and do so. Once you do, the sense of accomplishment of achieving your goal (a goal you thought would have been hard) makes you want to continue. I think that experience is what she is going thru since she got the abs she wanted.


text:
Posts by derek anderson
8 posts • joined 18 May 2007
Federal boffins: 'Giant invading snakes' will soon rule USA
Pity its a complete lie really
The irritating thing about this story ( aside from the depressing statistic that every single fact mentioned in it is wrong ) is that the dumb bastards are using this bollocks to try and ban the importation and interstate transportation of a whjole slew of animals.
This will penalise thousands of honest reptile keepers and effectively shut down large sections of the pet trade.
They bleat that this is about conservation but yet cats and dogs are allowed to eat the native wildlife at will with n'ery a peep.
Only parts of florida will EVER be affected - the climate in the other places mentioned will not support a population of any of the species of python and no boa constrictor comes close to being as deadly as they claim.
As a side point the total deaths from snakes in the US in the past 20 years is..........
Drumroll please...
And this includes the native venomous snakes as well. The much hyped news stories are quietly updated as the truth comes out - the child "killed by a 12 foot burmese python" recently turned out to have been killed by the parents who tried to use the snake to cover it up. The snake was only 8 foot long by the way and being kept illegally in improper housing in the first place.
But I guess "drug selling lackwit kills own child - also keeps a snake" isn't as catchy a headline.
The idiots involved in this legislative fiasco are happily fellating PETA thinking they are kissing mother nature.
Oh and even their own experts are now backing hurriedly away from the population estimates originally claimed to be in the wild.
The more I see of people like this the more I like my snakes.
Oh and paris because we have stupid, fellating and drugs in the post already.
Valtrex for the win!!
dr del
Translation outfit seeks Glaswegian speakers
To Steve Evans
"Only this weekend it was a word for chewing gum, which we all chuckled about and promptly all forgot."
Would it have been "chuggy" by any chance?
And Paris because she is also rubbery and devoid of taste the next morning.
Erin Andrews peephole footage spreads Trojan
Malware on the web - say it aint so
Bizzarely it is avaiable on usenet malware free - I have no idea how they will be able to enforce its removal from there.
But it could be fun watching them try.
Paris because... oh c'mon nudity, virus alerts and hysterical lawyers - what other choice did I have?
Virgin Media sets throttle on hardcore hogs
How dare we.....
Have the temerity to want to use the service we are paying for at the times correctly identified as those the majority of people would choose to use the service.
Why doesn't VM stop trying to penalise customers for believing the obviously inaccurate marketing lies and maybe, oh I dunno, actually invest in a network capable of supplying the service they keep telling people they offer.
The heavy users are not "abusing" the service, they are "using" it.
The fact the network apparently cannot cope with that is not the users fault - in fact they may want to get the damage they do in writing as a nice legaly presentable document proving VM sold them a lemon of a service knowing that it was not fit for purpose.
And Paris?
Simply because the burkett customer experience reminds me entirely of a certain part of her anatomy.
Herpes and all.
Windows users ambushed by attack on fresh IE flaw
And yet to read this warning....
Wouldn't it be better if you lead by example and have a front page that will load if the user has blocked mobile code, adverts and cookies on their machine via their firewall?
As it stands to read your warning not to allow dangerous behaviour you have to allow dangerous behaviour. ?? :-/ ??
The inbuilt vulnerabilities of IE are only part of the problem. The other part being the websites that demand the dodgy functions be enabled to display correctly.
Let's have a code of best practice on the part of site designers to lead by example.
As it stands the concept of "YOU ARE IN DANGER OF BEING BUTTHURT - kindly lower your trousers and turn around so we can tell you about it" seems to be adding to the problem of these zero days to me.
I am aware of firefox - the same sadly cannot be said for my banks website. And yes this is another bone of contention. ;-P
Chickens could 'power hydrogen cars'
Flesh Gordon II anyone?
Engage hyperchicken!
And Paris because this is exactly the time for cheap thrills. ;-P
Russell T Davies bows out of Doctor Who
Shh don't give him ideas!!
Please stop mentioning Firefly before the prancing unemployed loon decides to remake that with Mal and Jayne as two sides of a complex ,ever changing, love triangle.
My biggest beef is his dismissal of established cannon and replacing it with his own version that is then never expanded upon to my geeky satisfaction. I demand detailed descriptions of RTD's version of the timewar dag-nabbit!!
I really liked Billie piper as the companion and Christopher Eccleston as the doctor really was an inspired choice. It would be nice of the next doctor was in a similar mold with a nice dark edge and the ability to display complexity of character while gurning like a demented monkey that just caught its nutsack in an alligator.
Bring back piper and the daughter (echo of the susan character?) and give us a doctor who looks like he could take you in a pub fight (though apparently he never would ;-) for looking at his pint in a funny way.
Oh and we should make them have a public vote before creating any more spinoffs.
Hilton to go down for 23 days
this could be bad..
Won't this shocking reduction in jail time adversely affect the sales of her upcoming new movie "one tight in paris - girls of cell block lik"?
If i was her agent I'd appeal - unless of course this is a cunning publicity stunt to ensure she ends up caged with lindsay blowhan for the double whammy "ignorance gone wild"
My heart really does go out to whomever gets locked up with this para... erm socialite for 23 hours of the day - I wouldnt do that to my worst enemy.
Most read
- +Comment Anti-Facebook Ello: Here's why we're still in beta. SPAMGASM!
- NASA rover Curiosity drills HOLE in MARS 'GOLF COURSE'
- Video and pics Microsoft reveals NEW Windows 10. WAIT, 10? Yes, 'cos Seven ate Nine
- WHY did Sunday Mirror stoop to slurping selfies for smut sting?
- Business is back, baby! Hasta la VISTA, Win 8... Oh, yeah, Windows 9


text:
Loyola at a Glance
Subscribe to our Newsroom RSS feed | What is RSS?
Follow Loyola University New Orleans on Twitter
April 18, 2008 Faculty/Staff Footnotes
Prof. William P. Quigley has peformed the following Community Service/Pro Bono Litigation:
Joshua v City of New Orleans, USDC-NOLA – class action challenge to lack of due process in home demolitions in New Orleans. Co-counsel. Ridgely v FEMA, USDC, USDC-NOLA class action challenge to illegal termination of Section 408 housing assistance and recoupment. One of several local co-counsel. Twitty v Gretna, USDC -NOLA – challenge to FEMA trailer removal process in Gretna, Louisiana. One of several local counsel. Allen v HANO, CDC - Orleans – successful action for injunction to halt demolition until approval by New Orleans City Council. Cocounsel. Anderson v Jackson, USDC-NOLA class action on behalf of 4000 families seeking to return to public housing in New Orleans and to prevent HUD from demolishing 5000 affordable housing units – co-counsel with Advancement Project and Jenner & Block; Co-counsel, LeBlanc v Thomas, CDC-Orleans state court action for healthcare reinstatement for the indigent – January 2008, co-counsel; Co-counsel, Mary Burton Riseley, Betsy Lamb, and Jerry Zawada, federal criminal prosecution – anti-torture protest at Fort Huachuca USDC Arizona November 2007- February 2008; Co-counsel, federal criminal defense of 11 protestors at SOA-WHINSEC, USDC - Georgia, November 2007- January 2008; Counsel, US v Louis Vitale, USDC - Arizona- Tucson Arizona and advisory counsel for Steve Kelly – trespass and other state charges at Ft. Huachuca AZ to challenge teaching of torture at Fort. 2007.
Prof. William P. Quigley has taken part in the following speeches:
Speaker – keynote, Yale University School of Law Conference on Rebellious Lawyering, February 22, 2008; Speaker, "Federalism – Why It Broke Down," American Association of Law Schools, New York, January 2, 2008; Speaker, "Gulf Coast Civic Works Project and Need for Affordable Housing," LUCAP, November 15, 2007; Speaker, 2007 National Forum on Human Rights to Housing, "New Orleans and Public Housing Struggle," November 5, 2007; Speaker, "Racism and Katrina – Who was left behind then; who is left behind now?" Call to Action, Milwaukee, November 3, 2007; Speaker, "WHINSEC-School of the Americas," Loyola Community Action Project, October 29, 2007; Speaker, "Social Justice Law and Katrina," DePaul Law School Public Interest Conference, October 9, 2007; Speaker, "Katrina, Law and Social Justice," Ruth Chance Lecture U. California Berkeley Boalt Hall School of Law, September 10, 2007; Speaker, several class presentations, U Cal Berkeley Speaker, "Social Justice for Life," Oakland, CA, August 7, 2007; Moderator, "Tsunami and Katrina – Lessons from Indonesia, Thailand and the Gulf Coast," July 3, 2007; Speaker, "Katrina & Social Justice," American Association of Law Schools Clinical Conference, May 2007.
Prof. William P. Quigley has authored the following legal publications:
Author, "Racial Discrimination and the legal system in the United States: The recent lessons from Louisiana," United Nations Chronicle 2007, Volume XLIV, Number 3, September 2007; Author, "Human Rights Trump Property Rights – Lawyers Are Called to Become Revolutionaries," 64 Guild Practitioner 95 (Summer 2007); Co-author, "A Call for the Right to Return in the Gulf Coast," chapter with Sharda Sekaran in BRINGING HUMAN RIGHTS HOME, edited by Cynthia Soohoo, Catherine Albisa, Martha F. Davis. (2008); Author, "Letter to a Law Student Interested in Social Justice," 1 DePaul Journal for Social Justice 7 (2007); Author, "Obstacle to Opportunity: Housing that working and poor people can afford in New Orleans since Katrina," 42 Wake Forest Law Review 393 (2007); Author, "Thirteen Ways of Looking at Katrina: Human and Civil Rights," 81 Tulane Law Review 955 (2007); Author of Book Review, "There is no such thing as a Natural Disaster," 41 Clearinghouse Review: Journal of Poverty Law and Policy 99 (May-June 2007);
Other publications:
Author, "Half New Orleans Poor Permanently Displaced," Counterpunch, 3-4-08; Author, "Locked Outside the Gates: Tasers, Pepper Spray and Arrests in the Struggle for Affordable Housing in New Orleans, Common Dreams, Counterpunch, et al, December 27, 2007; Author, "Twenty Thousand Protest at Fort Benning: Eleven Face Criminal Trials," November 19, 2007 – Common Dreams, Counterpunch; Author, "Criminal Justice Meltdown," Counterpunch and others, October 31, 2007; Author, "Jailed for Justice: The Priests Who Protested Torture at Ft. Huachuca," Counterpunch and others, October 19, 2007; Author, "HUD's Wrecking Ball – Tightening the Noose around New Orleans," Counterpunch and others, September 26, 2007.
Author, "Katrina and Public Service Law," Newsweek.com, August 29, 2007; Author, "Ten Most Important Lessons Two Years After Katrina," August 28, 2007 – Counterpunch and others; Author, "Haitian Prisoner of Conscience Returns: Pere Jean-Juste Comes Home," August 24, 2007 – Counterpunch and many others; Author, "Fighting for the Right to Education," New Orleans Tribune and numerous others, August 6, 2007; Author, "Injustice in Jena – Nooses Hang from the 'White Tree,'" July 3, 2007, Counterpunch, Common Dreams, Truthout, and many others; Author, "How to Destroy an African American City in 33 Steps: Lessons from Katrina," June 30, 2007 Common Dreams, Counterpunch, Black Commentator, LA Weekly and many others; Author, "How Long Must We Support a Mistake?" Counterpunch, Dissident Voice, June 7, 2007; Author, "Less Meeting, More Fighting: Lessons Learned by Grassroots Katrina and Tsunami Social Justice Activists," May 28, 2007, Counterpunch, Common Dreams, Truthout, et al.
James. M. Klebba, Victor H. Schiro Distinguished Professor of Law, has been elected president of the Harvard Club of Louisiana. Harvard Club of Louisiana membership is open to those who have attended Harvard University or who have been affiliated with any Harvard institution. This includes attendees of Radcliffe and Harvard Colleges, the graduate and professional schools, former professors and administrators, parents, residents and fellows in the medical program, Kennedy School fellows and more. This is Klebba's second term as president.
For the latest updates about Loyola University New Orleans, follow us on Twitter @LoyolaNOLANews or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/loyno.
Loyola at a Glance is written and distributed for the faculty, staff, students and friends of Loyola University New Orleans. It is published by the Office of Public Affairs, Greenville Hall, Box 909, 7214 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70118. (504) 861-5888.
Information to be included in Loyola at a Glance must be received 2-3 weeks in advance of the publication date. Send us your news here.


text:
My Son Doesn't Want to Go to College
Guest blogger Mary: As my son was growing up, he never knew that going to college was optional, because my husband and I never let on that it was. Whenever we talked about it, we were always careful to say, "When you go to college," not "If you go ...." Technically, he always did have the choice, but we certainly weren't going to point out that fact to him. He was going, and that was that.
18. To many parents push and push their children
actually too many parents coddle their children now and that's why 25, 26, 27 year olds are still living at home.
He didn't choose to be born so he shouldn't be forced to go to college.
With that "logic" I guess he never needs to get a job or move out, ya know, since he didn't choose to be born. His parents can just support him forever. I certainly hope you never forced your kids to go to grammar school or high school -since ya know, they didn't choose to be born. Oh, and no chores, since they didn't choose to be born.
And we wonder where the sense of self-entitlement comes from?
Remember the psychology of disallowing candy to your child, and the child then wanting nothing BUT candy? It seems to me that you put so much emphasis on your son "serving time" in college that it sounds unappealing. And what is wrong with letting your son live at home while he works for a year to save up for college or trade school? He'll have a chance to see what interests him, and get a taste of what it's like to be self-sufficient - have him help with the bills. Sheesh.
My son is not happy about going off to college next year, however, he knows how important it is for his future. My husband and I did NOT pay for his car, he worked and saved himself. He also has to pay for his own auto insurance. By encouraging him to get a part time job at 15 yrs. old he has really come down a peg or two on the "entitled" mindset kids seem to always have. Hopefully, he will have a great college experience just as his father and I did.
Even if you have a trade it is a great idea to get educated in how to run a business. Learn to manage and plan. Hire others and make good decisions. There is so much more to a college education than just a degree.
Find a cousin, kid of a friend, anyone that is 19 years old or 20 and in college. Let your boy skip a day of high school to spend the day on the college campus, going to classes, meeting the students. I think that will show him college is awesome. It is not just more of high school (which most of us can agree is terrible!). Good luck motivating your boy!
One more thought- one tour in the military could give him time to mature. It really makes clear the difference in lifestyle between a HS education and college degree. Then he can choose with knowledge, and it buys him some time if he isn't ready to continue his education at 18 years old.
Hi just thought i'd inform you something.. This can be twice now iâve landed on your blog in the last 21 days looking for totally unrelated things. Spooky or what?
Appreciate your sharing superb informations. Your websiteis so cool.My business is thankful for the main points that youâve on this blog. It reveals how nicely someone perceives this subject. Bookmarked this web page, should come backfor extra articles. You, my mate, ROCK! I came across this can be the info I already searched all over the place and merely couldn?t encounter. What a ideal website. I'm keen on this web website and your website is without a doubt considered one of my new favorite ones.I love this site given and it has given me some type of dedication to achieve success for a lot of purpose, so thanks
I agree using your thoughts here and i also like your blog! Iâve bookmarked it making sure that I could keep coming back & read more down the road.
Kudos for posting a really useful weblog. Your site isnât only informative but also very artistic too. There are frequently very couple of those who can write not too simple articles that creatively. Maintain the excellent writing !!
Certainly completely with your conclusions and imagine that youâve made some excellent points. Also, I favor customized for specific cultures of one's site plus the easier navigation. Iâve bookmarked your blog and definately will return often!
To be sure along with your thoughts here and i also love your site! Iâve bookmarked it to ensure that I can keep coming back & read more down the road.
Excellent read, I recently passed this onto a colleague who was conducting a little research on that. Anf the husband actually bought me lunch because I came across it for him smile So let me rephrase that: Thanks for lunch!
Many thanks sharing superb informations. Your websiteis so cool.I will be astounded by the main points that youâve for this blog. It reveals how nicely you perceive this subject. Bookmarked this web site, arrive backfor extra articles. You, my mate, ROCK! I ran across this can be the info I already searched everywhere we look and just couldn?t encounter. Exactly what a ideal website. I favor this web web site whilst your website is without question among my new favorite ones.I love this website given possesses given me some kind of dedication to succeed for most purpose, so thanks
I am really thankful for the author with this post to make this lovely and informative article live in charge of us. We actually appreciate ur effort. Continue the great work… .
To be sure completely using your conclusions and believe that youâve made some excellent points. Also, I like layout , design of your respective site as well as the simple navigation. Iâve bookmarked your website and definately will return often!
I loved this post. You describe this topic wonderfully. When hiring home contractors it is answer to opt for a trusted name in construction. Experienced and efficient staff should shoot for excellence and pay close attention to every detail in your home.
I had been questioning occasion you ever considered altering the layout of the website? Its really correctly created; I really like what youve obtained to say. But possibly you may small additional in the form of content so males could connect to it greater. Youve obtained a terrible total lots of text for only finding a single or two images. Maybe youâll be capable of area against eachother greater?


text:
StandardJanuary 24, 2013 by admin
Chicago Warehouse Fire
This blog is usually home to my most recent wedding photographs but I still work as a news photographer when I get the chance.
This unique warehouse fire at 38th & Ashland made for some interesting and icy photographs. The Chicago Fire Department had been battling the blaze for 3 days.
StandardJanuary 7, 2013 by admin
Will you marry me?
On a very cold afternoon, Nathan surprised his girlfriend Rebecca by proposing to her near the Adler Planetarium. This pre planned event allowed me to capture the moment with two cameras, one remote, using the city skyline as the main shot. My second camera captured Rebecca's expression as Nathan popped the question. As you can see in this sequence of images, the answer was yes!
Later, we took some engagement portraits in downtown Chicago.
StandardJanuary 6, 2013 by admin
WPJA 1st place photo!
2012 Continues to be a good year for my wedding photography contest entries.
My photo of Alessandera getting ready received the 1st place award in that category for the WPJA's 3rd quarter contest. I'm also happy to report it's my 3rd, first place photo for 2012.
StandardNovember 27, 2012 by admin
Wedding Bell Blue
Jennifer and George were married November 9, 2012 in an all in one wedding at the Renaissance North Shore Hotel in Northbrook, IL. Since I recently moved my wedding photography studio to Glenview, it was a short commute.
With some chilly weather going on outside, the bride and groom decided to shoot their portraits indoors. There were many great photo ops in this colorful hotel and we took advantage of all of them.
Do you need a Chicago wedding photographer? If so, please visit web site or contact me for more information.
StandardOctober 22, 2012 by admin
Grin and Bear it!
If you are a regular visitor to my blog, you may recognize this wonderful couple who were officially engaged back in June. Michael surprised Amber by proposing at sunset across from the Adler Planetarium with the Chicago skyline as a backdrop.
They've since booked me as their Chicago Wedding Photographer. On Saturday, we took the time to capture some special locations, including Wells St., the Chicago River and as huge Chicago Bears fans, Soldier Field.
With such a photogenic couple, their August 2013 wedding photos will be a breeze!
Please Contact me if you'd like more information on my wedding services.
StandardOctober 19, 2012 by admin
Across the Pond
Kathryn and Steve were married September 22, 2012 at the Saddle and Cycle Club. Like most couples, the newlyweds wanted a wedding photographer in Chicago to capture some of their favorite locations.
The day began when I met the bride at the Club for some traditional "getting ready photos".
We then headed over to Lilly Pond on Fullerton where the bride and groom had their first glance moment. As the ceremony time approached, we made one last stop at Montrose Harbour and worked the beautiful skyline view into our portraits.
The all in one wedding was great and my first visit to this venue.
If you are in the market for a Wedding Photographer, please Contact Me for more information.
StandardSeptember 18, 2012 by admin
Chelsea and Justin tied the knot on Saturday, September 15th at St. Raymond's in Morton Grove, IL. It was a beautiful day to get married and ideal for a wedding photographer, not too hot, not too cold and plenty of great light.
Our day began at Chevy Chase Country Club in Wheeling, IL where the Bride and brides maids were getting ready. We then traveled to the ceremony and back for more photos and the reception. It was a great day, congratulations to the newlyweds!
Do you need a photographer for your Wedding? If so, please Contact Me for more information.
Wedding Photographers in Chicago
StandardSeptember 12, 2012 by admin
Honey Moon in Vegas!
Technically, Alessandra and Michael's wedding was in Mount Charleston, Nevada but I couldn't resist the title of this post.
There's nothing like a destination wedding to add a little more excitement to my career. Over Labor Day weekend, the bride, groom, family and friends, including this Chicago wedding photographer, all traveled to Las Vegas, about 30 miles from the wedding location.
After getting ready and a first glance by the bride and groom, we traveled further into the Sierra Nevada Mountains and used some breathtaking backdrops for wedding portraits.
The all in one wedding was held at the Mt. Charleston Lodge. After an outdoor ceremony, a big, bright and beautiful yellow moon rose above the mountains. Photographing the moon can be difficult but the bride and groom took the time to pose until we hit right shot. I told them they'd be happy they did!
Are you planing your own Destination Wedding? If so, please Contact Me for more information.
StandardSeptember 10, 2012 by admin
Alessandra & Michael
With their wedding in Mount Charleston Nevada, I met Alessandra and Michael in Las Vegas, for a quick engagement session on the strip.
The Fountains of Bellagio, one of Las Vegas' most watched attractions, made an exciting and fun backdrop for our session. Along with Destination Weddings, I also shoot Engagement Portraits around the country.


text: Learning how to fabricate your own chicken will allow you to reap the benefits of cost savings! When you purchase a whole chicken, you have the power to choose better quality and responsibly raised chickens. You will also be left with a carcass to produce your own high quality chicken stock for soups and sauces. Watch this video to learn how!


text:
21st Avenue Bikes
Bike Friendly Business
DirectionsGet directions on Google Maps
These maps and directions are for planning purposes only. You may find that construction projects, traffic, or other events may cause road conditions to differ from the map results. For travel options, weather and road conditions, visit tripcheck.com, call 511 (in Oregon only), 800.977.6368 or 503.588.2941.
We're proud to be Northwest Portland's finest commuter and road bicycle shop. As a local business with a focus on community, we understand the importance of quality customer service.
No one has posted a comment yet.


text:
2014 NMEDA Conference Registration
Or Download the Registration Brochure and fax or mail the form to NMEDA.
The 2014 Conference features a jam-packed schedule, including: two keynote speakers (Mike Abrashoff and Alan Parisse), a full schedule of workshops (with both Dealer and Associate focused agendas) and manufacturer product demonstrations, a visit from the Veteran's Affairs and the PVA (have all your questions answered straight from the source), a live auction, awards banquet and more… all under one roof!
Don't forget to make your hotel reservations!
|Conference Pre-Registration Rates:
NMEDA Members
New NMEDA Members
Non-NMEDA Members
One Day Attendance
Banquet Only $75.00
On-Site Registration
Conference Brochure
Exhibitors may sign-up for the conference here.


text:
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
I was so enraged, when i heard there will be raid to Zul'Aman and Zul'Jin. Its my favorite character, he brought me to troll RP (For Zuljin!) and i sympatise with him. Elves who invaded and killed us trolls should never be in da horde...
This is part of the lore that i never can take as canon - even there is a raid and everything. Zuljin is my hero and i never helped killing him. I love Amani people and id like to help them - not invade them and try to steal their artifacts and secrets.
For me the ZA was the worst thing that happened in wow... :(
When I first heard that World of Warcraft was going to be an mmo, I essentially wanted my character to be Zul'jin. Needless to say, this was before I had played warcraft III (the advertisement for WoW might have even been in the WC3 box).
When I realized that the playable trolls has basically nothing to do with the trolls of WC2, and hunters couldn't use throwing axes effectively... I delayed subscribing and ended up rolling alliance more than a few years later.
Yeah, I guess I'm strange. I'd enjoy a faction of orcs, ogres, forest trolls, goblins and whoever else they wanted to add in there. I'm not a fan of the way the forsaken are incorporated into the current horde, but if they had gone a darker route with the playable horde (i.e. following the blackrock instead the frostwolf) it would've been a little more believable.
Faction balance would've been horrendous, but it would've been doable.


text:
Tuesday, 16 November 2010
Thank you Nancy!
Nancy from Nancy's Crochet has given me a beautiful blogger award. Thank you very much Nancy!!!
Now I have to tell you 10 things about myself.
1. I love writing lists, so this is tons of fun to do!
2. I love watching fishing show on t.v. Monster fish, Deadliest catch, River monsters, you get the idea.
3. I have wool stashed away everywhere. No exaggeration, I'll take a photo of it all one day.
4. I'm a little bit scared of our cat Molly. Blog post about her soon.
5. J is taller than me by 3"
6. I haven't worked for nearly two years after an injury to my shoulder. Another operation soonish.
7. I love watching all of the different birds that come into my garden.
8. I'm the reason why my sister is terrified of butterflies. (I still feel guilty)
9. Sometimes during the summer, I'll do washing that doesn't really need to be done, just so I can hang it on the line. (Not very green sorry)
10. When I hang out my washing, the pegs have to be in matching pairs. I'd go crazy if they were odd or mixed up!
So now I have to pass this on to 10 other blogs. It's going to be hard to pick only 10.
5. Teacup lane
8. kookoo craft
9. Just Joan
5 comments:
Thanks so much Heyley for passing this award to my blog, really really enjoy it!ReplyDelete
Have a wonderful day!
LoL, xxx
hi thanks alot for the blogger award I do apreciate it It makes all this blogging worthwhileReplyDelete
thanks a lot for this award it is truly apreciated.ReplyDelete
Its things like this that makes blogging worthwhile knowing other people read your blog
Loved reading your fun facts and congratulations!ReplyDelete
- Anonymous8 February 2014 20:48
I know this is an old post, but I had to comment! Your peg pairing made me smile, I am the me! I have having mismatched pegs on clothes! If I do several loads, or lots of little-person stuff, I sometimes run out, and the last 6 or so pegs don't pair up. I hate it, but always forget to buy more pegs so I don't run low!ReplyDelete
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


text:
Last commit also enables gd-native-ttf support.
Last commit also enables gd-native-ttf support.
Number of ports [& non-ports] in this commit: 1
Showing files for just one port: www/mod_php4
show all files
hide all files
Servers and bandwidth provided byNew York Internet, SuperNews, and RootBSD
8 vulnerabilities affecting 19 ports have been reported in the past 14 days
* - modified, not new
All vulnerabilities


text:
The Triumph Speed Triple R raises the performance bar even higher than the base Speed Triple model, featuring a series of modifications which make it one of the most agile Triumphs ever made. The bike is fitted with first class components signed by famous brands such as Ohlins, Pirelli or Brembo. Moreover, the Triumph Speed Triple R also comes with a fly screen, a belly pan, a seat cowl and Diablo Red radiator shrouds.
The motorcycle's center piece is a 1050cc, liquid-cooled, 12 valve, DOHC, in-line 3-cylinder engine which generates a maximum power of 135PS at 9400 rpm and 111NM of torque at 7750 rpm. All this power is kept under control by a six speed transmission which returns an average fuel consumption of 50 mpg.
As far as prices are concerned, the Triumph Speed Triple R ABS can be yours for no less than $14,699.
Hit the jump for more information on the Triumph Speed Triple R ABS.
The purest, hardest performing and most rewarding naked sports motorcycle available today. Triumph took the Speed Triple, the world's first and best factory streetfighter with its head-turning, angry style and its 135PS three-cylinder engine. Then added the best components the motorcycle industry can offer, from Öhlins, Pirelli and Brembo. A variety of exquisitely designed accessories complete the R transformation – fly screen, belly pan and seat cowl,while the Diablo Red radiator shrouds further boast of the R's pedigree.
The result is the Speed Triple R, cutting edge real world performance to thrill the most committed rider.
Based on the already high performing and agile Speed Triple. The R gives you sharper steering and even better feedback for the most intense, tactile and satisfying ride from any Triumph ever made.
The Speed Triple never tried to hide what it was, a cutting edge sports bike with performance honed for the street. But the R screams it.
2014 Triumph Speed Triple R ABS Features and Benefits:
The engine is the same muscle-packed 1050cc triple that powers the Speed Triple. And it delivers a huge punch. But every real rider knows, the key to its real world performance is the broad spread of torque and instant throttle response.
With 135PS maximum there's enough high-end performance to satisfy you on a serious track day. Then there's the Speed Triple R's 111Nm of peak torque, with lots more thrust on tap lower down the rev range no matter what the gear and a seemingly endless flow of power that's predictable and easy to use.
Triumph matched the transmission carefully to the engine, with six ratios in the gearbox to make sure there's always one that's perfect at any moment of your ride. While the wet, multi-plate clutch has a lightweight and predictable lever action to make fast getaways easy and town riding effortless.
The twin silencers, wrapped in black exhaust heat shields, sit beneath the short, stubby tail section of the Speed Triple R and leave the rear wheel fully exposed on the right by the cool, single-sided swingarm.
Not for looks, for real world sports bike riding. It just happens to look great.
Choosing the suspension wasn't just a case of looking for the best and bolting it on.
Extensive testing by Triumph own and Öhlins highly experienced development riders on road and track means the internals were developed specifically for Triumph and the Speed Triple R.
In the NIX30 forks and TTX36 shock, the rebound and compression damping functions are completely separated to give you more precise damping control and both offer a huge range of settings to suit your ride.
The frame is the same doubled-tube, twin spar design recognisable from the 1997 model. Although the current version was updated in 2011, so it now uses the engine as a crucial frame component, making the chassis stiffer and lighter for a more focussed ride.
Triumph has added Brembo Monobloc callipers to the R for 5 per cent more stopping power than the standard Speed Triple's Brembos. And their single-piece construction helps reduce distortion at extreme pressures for more accurate feedback.
The optional electronic ABS makes 100 calculations per second to prevent wheel lock up at either end.
Wheels and Tires
Triumph fitted lightweight cast aluminium wheels and a wide 6 inch rim on the back to take the grippiest, sports-focused rubber the Speed Triple R deserves
The swingarm is aluminium and features an eccentric chain adjuster so that the rear wheel stays perfectly in line with the front for a focussed, precise handling.
Riding Position
The Speed Triple R is pure sports bike with a real world edge. So Triumph designed the riding position for accurate control and aggressive performance in everyday riding situations. Triumph set the bars low, the footrests in a rear set position and the seat is deeply shaped to keep you in position during hard use but still allows you to slide off the sides of the bike.
It's a forward biased stance essential for keeping weight over the front of the bike, so you can feel feeling exactly what the forks and tire are doing and explore cornering limits, shifting weight to keep the front end in contact with the ground.
All from a road-going motorcycle that you can use in heavy traffic, slow speed town riding and occasional long distance trips.
Carbon Fiber
Triumph has added high quality carbon fiber components - radiator inner shrouds, mudguard and tank cover.
The four piston, radially mounted Brembo front callipers, with optional electronic ABS make 100 calculations per second to prevent wheel lock up at either end.
Triumph has made sure your bike is protected by a coded key immobiliser system, should your Speed Triple R attract the wrong kind of attention. It disables the ignition if it detects an attempt to turn or force the ignition switch without the presence of the electronically coded correct key.
Instruments and Computer
Triumph added all the instrumentation a rider needs. Including programmable gear change lights, service interval reminder, lap timer, trip computer and fuel gauge.
All designed to be used by the performance rider, it's part digital, part analogue and laid out in a highly intuitive fashion to make absorbing the array of information as easy and quick as possible.
Key Accessories:
Alloy LED Indicators
Gloss Black LED indicator units designed act as a direct replacement for the standard parts.
Features include cast alloy body, with rubberised mounting foot and Triumph logo branding.
Bar End Mirror
Sold singularly the bar end mirror is a stylish alternative to the standard equipment. CNC machined and available in a clear or black anodised finish this option features laser etched Triumph logo detailing with tinted Mirror glass.
Warranty and Service:
Triumph confidence provides you with a two-year unlimited mileage warranty on your new Triumph and Genuine Accessories. Alongside the knowledge that Triumph give you a 12 month unlimited mileage warranty on replacement parts.
The Speed Triple R carries 6,000 mile (10,000km) service intervals.
|Engine type
|Liquid-cooled, 12 valve, DOHC, in-line 3-cylinder
|Fuel system
|Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection with SAI
|Stainless Steel 3 into 1 into 2, twin high level stainless steel silencers
|Final drive
|Oil capacity
|1.0US Gallon
|Aluminium beam twin-spar
|Single-sided, aluminium alloy with eccentric chain adjuster
|Front Wheels
|Forged aluminium alloy 5 spoke 17 x 3.5in
|Rear Wheels
|Forged aluminium alloy 5 spoke 17 x 6.0in
|Front Tires
|Rear Tires
|Front Suspension
|Öhlins 43mm NIX30 upside down forks with adjustable rebound and compression damping, 120mm travel
|Rear Suspension
|Öhlins TTX36 twin tube Monoshock with rebound and compression damping, 130mm rear wheel travel
|Brakes front
|Twin 320mm floating discs, Brembo 4-piston Monobloc radial calipers , Switchable ABS
|Brakes rear
|Single 255mm disc, Nissin single 2-piston sliding caliper, Switchable ABS
|Instrument display and functions
|LCD multi-functional instrument pack with digital speedometer, fuel gauge, trip computer, analogue tachometer, programmable gear change lights, lap timer, service interval announcement and TPMS ready, switchable ABS.
|Width handlebars
|Height without mirror
|Seat height
|Tank capacity
|4.6us gallon
|Wet weight
|212 kilo
|Max power ec
|Max torque ec
|Fuel consumption urban
|34us mpg
|Fuel consumption 56mph/90kph
|50us mpg
|Color Options
|Matt Crystal White, Phantom Black


text:
Wedding and Shower Recipes
Make your wedding memorable with these delicious wedding recipes including wedding cake recipes, bridal shower menus, and more.
Southern Living Wedding Planner and Keepsake
You will treasure this timeless keepsake with wedding tips, organizational tools, and stunning photography. It's what to do before saying "I do."
All About Registering
Shopping for your wedding gift registry doesn't have to be a chore. Let us guide you with tips from the experts.
Our Best Wedding and Bridal Shower Recipes and Menus
Host a wonderful wedding weekend with delicious recipes from these menus.
Elegant Reception at HomeHost an intimate reception at home with these make-ahead recipes for a crowd. (Serves 25)
A Groom's Chocolate TableReplace the traditional groom's cake with this sweet alternative--a buffet of treats that can be made ahead.
Seated Dinner Reception MenuServe wedding guests in style with this refined menu for a seated dinner reception.
5 Party PunchesWhether for baby showers, wedding showers, or a special lunch, break out one of these five party pleasing punches.
Bridesmaids' Luncheon MenuHonor your attendants in style with this elegant luncheon menu. (Serves 6)
5 Dainty Finger SandwichesHosting a spring baby shower, afternoon tea, or ladies' luncheon? Serve some of these five delicious finger sandwiches for a festive and filling celebration.
Peaceful Wedding Weekend MenuPamper the parents of the bride with a relaxing dinner or brunch away from the fray. (Serves 4-6)
Top-Rated Wedding and Bridal Shower Recipes
Strawberry-Lemonade Layer CakeSouthern Living, April 2014
Key Lime Pie Ice CreamSouthern Living, June 2011
Lemon-Scented Blueberry CupcakesCooking Light, January 2007
Strawberry-Rose CupcakesSunset, April 2011
Mosaic Tea SandwichesSouthern Living, April 2014
Watermelon BellinisCooking Light, August 2013
Asparagus and Morel QuicheSunset, April 2010
Find out what we've got cooking...
Get our Free Weekly Specials Newsletter filled with our favorite recipes, seasonal menus, and special features.
We Respect Your Privacy. Privacy Policy
Most Popular Recipes
- 1. Chicken and Cashews
- 2. Crisp Mashed Potato Cakes
- 3. Easy Peach Cobbler
- 4. Classic Beef Pot Roast
- 5. Best Carrot Cake


text:
Why is the FICO score such a big deal?
It sounds like a character in a Disney movie, but FICO has no magical powers. But if your score is good, you can live happily ever after.
Call it the gatekeeper of credit. Its three digits can deny you a mortgage or establish your interest rate. And it's almost impossible to avoid in the lending world. That's because there's no credit score more trusted than the FICO credit score.
But there was a day when this ubiquitous rating wasn't around. Its creation was decades in the making by two scientists who believed computer-assisted credit evaluations could trump a handshake and a person's word. Now, 90 of the largest 100 U.S. financial institutions depend on the FICO credit score.
Its rise in the credit scoring world is not without controversy or stumbling blocks, however. In the beginning, many didn't buy into computer modeling and automation. And now, some challenge the score's dominance, while others question the score's accuracy.
"I get the idea of a credit score. It's a quick and dirty, easy way," says Pava Leyrer, president of Heritage National Mortgage in Michigan, who has seen the dawn of the FICO credit score over her 36-year career. "But I think there are some people who deserve a lower score and others who do the right thing in the wrong way and are penalized for it."
A long time coming
The FICO credit score wasn't hatched immediately after its parent company, Fair Isaac Corp., was founded in 1956 by William Fair and Earl Isaac. The pair had met a few years earlier while working at the Stanford Research Institute, developing ways to use computers to improve military decisions. They left Stanford under mysterious circumstances and decided to apply their research to the business world.
"Either they quit or got fired -- nobody really knows," says a source close to the Fair family who requested anonymity for security reasons. "But Bill Fair and Earl Isaac got good at computers at a time when very few people knew how to use them."
Working on a borrowed computer from Standard Oil of California during off-peak hours, Fair and Isaac began writing computer programs that could calculate scores that predicted behavior. Despite the innovation, their invention was slowly received.
They pitched the system to 50 major lenders in 1958. Only American Investment bought it. Montgomery Ward, the department store, followed five years later. And in 1970, the company signed up its first credit card issuer, Connecticut Bank and Trust. The company also developed a computer-automated system to process credit applications that nearly "killed the company," says the source.
"The idea of trusting a machine was pretty radical then," the source says.
Finally, Wells Fargo adopted the credit application software in 1972. The mid-'70s saw FICO expand into Europe as well as create its first score that predicted credit risk of existing customers for Wells Fargo.
"William Fair once said, 'We started the business in '56. By '75, we thought it would live,'" says the source.
In 1979, the company began working on a vision to create a general credit score generated from reports supplied by the major credit reporting bureaus. It would take 10 years before that vision came to fruition.
The score that changed it all
In the 1980s, FICO was creating custom scores for lenders based off credit bureau data. It also developed a score that helped prescreen potential borrowers from a consumer database at the credit bureaus for a lender's marketing efforts.
"That worked pretty well," says Anthony Sprauve, spokesman for myFICO.com, the consumer education division of FICO. "And then the light bulb went off: Can we take the credit report and from that, make a general credit risk score?"
FICO did that in 1989. The first general-purpose credit score based on Equifax credit reports debuted. Two years later, TransUnion signed up, and by 1991, the FICO credit score was available at all three credit reporting agencies.
"It was the first score that had transcended the three national credit bureaus," says Sprauve.
By the mid-'90s, after Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac's endorsements, the FICO credit score became the credit score of choice. The company now boasts that 90 percent of credit scores purchased by lenders come from FICO.
"It's critical in this industry," says John Stearns, a mortgage banker with American Fidelity Mortgage in Wisconsin. "For the most part, the scores are accurate, a good reflection of what has been going in a consumer's credit history."
FICO's legacy: The good, the bad and the ugly
FICO's dominance in the credit scoring industry isn't without its critics. Its greatest competition comes from the credit bureaus themselves, which provide the much-needed credit histories to produce the FICO score. In 2006, the three credit bureaus banded together and created a new credit score called the VantageScore as an alternative to the FICO score.
FICO struck back in 2007 with a lawsuit claiming a long list of infractions against VantageScore Solutions LLC and the three credit reporting bureaus. In court papers, FICO said its share of the credit scoring market had fallen a whopping 4 percentage points to 74 percent since VantageScore entered the scene. FICO eventually dropped the suit in 2011 after courts ruled in favor of VantageScore.
"FICO and the bureaus, the simplest way to describe it is as a cooperative relationship and a competitive relationship," says Sprauve, who noted that the credit bureaus sell the FICO scores to lenders, while FICO has no direct relationship with lenders. "We need the bureaus very much in partnership on the FICO score."
Consumer advocates and some in the lending industry have also questioned the accuracy of FICO credit scores. Leyrer notes that the FICO credit score leaves no room for nuance. For example, a person with a bankruptcy could have a similar score as someone who has many late payments, but no collections.
"I'll take a slow pay over a no pay every day," she says. "I've seen people with scores in the low 700s I would never lend a dime to. And I've seen people with scores in the 600s who I would loan my own money to."
The FICO credit score, among other credit scores, also has shown racial disparities, with minorities having lower overall scores, says Chi Chi Wu, an attorney at the National Consumer Law Center. She also notes that several studies show that many consumers' low scores are because of unexpected life events that affect their ability to pay bills. But once they get back on their feet, they are a good credit risk.
"The system doesn't do a good job distinguishing those folks from those who may have difficulty managing credit," she says.
Still, the FICO credit score isn't static. The latest FICO credit score is the eighth generation of the original score that Equifax first used in 1989. The company has also tailored the original for specific credit types, such as credit cards or auto loans. There are 53 FICO credit-risk scores being used by lenders today.
"We like to say that we never stop updating the models," says Sprauve. "We want to make sure the model best reflects current consumer habits, the kinds of credit products offered and any changes or improvements in credit bureau data."
The newest version ignores collections accounts under $100, de-emphasizes authorized user accounts and isolated late payments and is more sensitive to high credit card balances. The company is now looking into how loan modifications and natural disasters may affect consumers and their credit. A new, better iteration of the FICO credit score may come out of that research.
"They are scientists," says Wu. "They do think about these things."
More from Bankrate.com
Trusted by Whom? The top 1% group which uses it to gouge and steal off the back of hard working Americans. We can vote 50 plus times to repeal the ACA. We can Protest Wall Street. There are folks being bused all across the Country to talk about Gun Laws and Abortion, but I have yet to see any group get together to talk about the biggest problem of all, Bogus Credit Scores. 99% of everyone agrees that they are a scam yet still it continues.
congratulations! Your FICO score is high. That tells me you had to BORROW ALOT OF MONEY IN YOUR LIFE...AND PAY IT BACK WITH ENOURMOUSLY INSANE INTEREST RATES.
I prefer cash....and no debt...and I achieved that by paying myself 10% on every purchase/expenditure I ever made since I was 24 years old..and I called it the "ME TAX"...which meant pay myself first, and if I could not afford the me tax...I could not buy what it is I wanted to buy.
That included every expense...so you can see how it got me on the road to saving money at an early age when you consider "expenses" included, food, power, water, car, etx..... By age 36, I was what many consider wealthy. don't get me wrong...it's a very hard thing to suddenly start....thus you should start it as early in life as you can...but the fruits of your good spending habits (and saving habits) start paying dividends in 5-7 years.
Oh the FICO score...I use to securitize MBS products back in the hey day (2003-2008; well I still do to be honest)...I **** u not back then the FICO score was more important that income.....haha....FICO still has a ton of importance but I think it is just a scam to charge more to the masses...I have a score of 803, but that dont mean if I go out and buy a mansion I wont go broke...I have been a good boy to this point but what if I lose my job? Actually I am losing my job....I am going to soon lose a very high paying job...I wont miss any house payment cuzz I have about a years savings in the bank and my mortgage pmt is very low...so to me those indicators should be #1, not some silly **** FICO score....but whatever its not going away so play the game or else you gonna pay!
A Russian Mathematician Markov says that in probability the events that did happen in the past does not matter. His powerful probability theory says that; is what an immediate past and current activity that determines the probability of outcomes in the feature, which is correct. People lost a job and fell on hard times. That was the past. What matters is how well they pickup the pieces and move forward that determines their remaining part of lives. FICO is an illegitimate math of collection agents.
A person's worthiness first and foremost is his/her standing in his/her community without lie, deception, cheating, theft, adultery, criminal act or behavior, respect to elders and very young. If you consider the above, the very people who are trying to analyze US public fail as they are the most corrupt, child porn chasers, often hanging around in brothels drunk and foul-mouth. You have such people running credit reporting. People who sponsored genocide in places like South Africa.
Copyright © 2014 Microsoft. All rights reserved.
Fundamental company data and historical chart data provided by Morningstar Inc. Real-time index quotes and delayed quotes supplied by Morningstar Inc. Quotes delayed by up to 15 minutes, except where indicated otherwise. Fund summary, fund performance and dividend data provided by Morningstar Inc. Analyst recommendations provided by Zacks Investment Research. StockScouter data provided by Verus Analytics. IPO data provided by Hoover's Inc. Index membership data provided by Morningstar Inc.
- Estimate your credit score
Take this quick quiz to get a handle on whether you can qualify for a good loan rate.
- Credit card payoff calculator
- Do you have too much debt?
- Consolidate and get out of debt
- Debt payoff calculator
Occupy Wall Street bought and forgave the student loan debt of more than 2,700 Everest College students.


text:
This strapless cotton stretch mini-dress with checked embroidered strass from Balmain Spring 2014 collection is a key item of every woman's wardrobe. Team it with a six buttons jacket, leather bootie and golden brass oversized bracelet. Made in Italy
This silk chiffon pleated long-sleeved dress, high-waisted and with flounced hem, brings an extreme femininity to your outfit. Easy to wear thanks to its gold coloured zip-fastening at back and zipped cuffs. Wear it with lace bootie and oversized accessories for a rock-and-roll attitude. Made in France
Extreme femininity and sensuality are Olivier Rousteing key words for Balmain Spring 2014 collection. This viscose sleeveless mini-dress is embellished with see-through stripes, to emphasize every woman's body curves. Made in Italy
Extreme femininity and sensuality are Olivier Rousteing key words for Balmain Spring 2014 collection. This viscose sleeveless mini-dress is embellished and hound's tooth print, to emphasize every woman's body curves. Made in France
This devore knit long-sleeved mini-dress from Resort 2014 Balmain by Olivier Rousteing collection, is embellished with a round neck and see-through sleeves and stripes. * See-through long sleeves * Round collar * Golden metal zip-fastening at back * Made in Italy
Olivier Rousteing for Balmain revisited the little black dress in a Ballerina, sober, elegant and aerial version. The waist is marked, impecabbly pleated, with shoulder straps highlighted of golden chains. * Mini dress * Marked high waist * Pleated * Shoulder bridles embellished with golden chains * Zipper on the left side * Made in France
Utlra-short, sleevless and with a plunge neckline, this little pleated dress is an essential item of the summer 2014 collection of Olivier Rousteing for the Balmain House. * Short dress * Sleevless * Plunging V neckline * Back zipper * Pleated * Made in France


text:
We couldnt find anything matching your search for Dx6-channel Transmitter With Ar610 Reciever Mode 2
Try a related item, a more general term, or check out some of our suggestions below.
Shop By Category
Shop Deals
Don't miss out on this deal -- one day only. Buy now; quantities are limited.
Visit our online weekly ad for this week's best offers and more.
Quantities are limited.
Selection changes constantly.
Selection changes constantly.


text:
Full size version is only available to registered users
Please Register as a New User or Login as Existing User to gain full access to all the photos on this site. Registration is quick and completely free.
Unregistered users can only view full size photos that have been added this month.
Lets fly, fly away..
Davina, Feb 2007
© petegunn
Problem: Smatch
Camera used: Nikon D70


text:
Chella. 21. I have moved, this blog is no longer active! For details and directives on where to find me now, please check the links below. Thank you! <3
"Victors are our strongest. They are the very embodiment of hope where there is no hope. And now twenty-three of us will be killed to show how even that hope was an illusion."


text:
Have an account with us?
Click here to Login
Please enter your Emailing Address and Order ID.
Not registered? create account
Enter your ActionVillage details
Loading Products to Compare...
Pick a Category (Optional):
Thank You!
Need Help? 805-823-8130 | Live Chat
We price match | Free shipping on orders $100 or more |
Sign up for price alert
The M249 Saw Stock balances perfectly and rolls firmly onto its target like a tried-and-true saw stock rifle. It is made from the same material as that used in actual firearms. It features a retractable "flip-up" support brace and a ridged buttplate ensures a secure shoulder grip.
Need Help? 805-823-8130
Signup for Our Newsletter
©2014 ActionVillage.com All Rights Reserved. Made by SDG.


text:
Home > Art / Photo > Pen & Ink > Springtime Excitement
Springtime ExcitementReport abuse
By Danielle M., Morrow, GA
What is more exciting...springtime is exciting.
Join the Discussion
This art/photo has 2 comments. Post your own!
Your #1 Fan said...
May 22 at 10:20 am:
May 22 at 10:20 am:
I love it!
A Fan. said...
May 22 at 10:06 am:
May 22 at 10:06 am:
This is a wonderful piece of art. Is it a page out of your comic book? It looks like it.


text:
Love it or Hate It? Mischa Barton's Ginger Hair
Love it or Hate It? Mischa Barton's Ginger Hair
by POPSUGAR Beauty 78 Reactions 0 Shares Print
Mischa Barton showed up at the Paper Magazine Party last night in New York to celebrate her friend Rihanna's cover. Not only was she wearing a cute glittery headband, but her hair was dyed a warmer, more gingery-auburn color. How do you feel about this damsel going darker?
Celebrity Beauty
Mischa Barton
5 years
She looks good, notice how all the dudes say they like it and all the girls dont... fyi she is a natural red head just look up pictures of her when she was a kid. All you haters couldnt touch mischa with a ten foot pole your just jelous.
phree2b 6 years
She still looks nice...
phree2b 6 years
She still looks nice...
Peyote 6 years
I love her hair like this. She has such a great sense of style.
XxCoolBritannaxX 7 years
I really love it, I think it looks great.
baby-ballerina 7 years
it suits her.
baby-ballerina 7 years
it suits her.
potterlove 7 years
She looks real cute with this hair!
bcv_wy22 7 years
I think her new hair color makes her look like Plum Sykes
zc 7 years
i prefer her hair before this
zc 7 years
i prefer her hair before this
diesdre 7 years
Yeah someone said it before: this is not a very good picture. Besides that, I really like her with dark hair, and I think is very nice to suit the fall trends (and mood).
diesdre 7 years
Yeah someone said it before: this is not a very good picture.Besides that, I really like her with dark hair, and I think is very nice to suit the fall trends (and mood).
JaimeLeah526 7 years
I think the reddish color looks great on her especially with the freckles. She looks really coked out in this picture though.
mizlynz 7 years
You can't really tell from the pic, but I think that hair color washes her out.
dmartinxoxo 7 years
I like her eye makeup a lot. Let's have a tutorial for this Bella! :]
vinnie 7 years
and what's with that "I'm a Little Princess" headband?
hills 7 years
tbh i dont think this is a good picture, but i've seen others of her with red hair and its sexy
swwonder 7 years
Love it, she looks a lot more attractive with dark hair - as do a lot of people.
nikecold 7 years
I can't stand her for some reason, maybe its because I hated Marissa on The OC
tysontysonxv 7 years
Her skin looks a little sallow and pallid with this color. She's a beautiful girl, but I don't think this color makes her pop.
jmast 7 years
I love it, she looks like a fairy princess...so pretty.
total 7 years
I love it - it really suits her. Wish I could go that colour.
Viakenny 7 years
she looks so beautiful there... in fact, I think she looks gorgeous with any hair color. (but I don't think her hair looks red, but brown)
Viakenny 7 years
she looks so beautiful there...in fact, I think she looks gorgeous with any hair color.(but I don't think her hair looks red, but brown)
Chiquita-82 7 years
nope! not for me!
Chiquita-82 7 years
nope! not for me!
xo_verity 7 years
I kinda like it. :)
xo_verity 7 years
I kinda like it. :)
JustMe21 7 years
I like it.
audreystar 7 years
that picture reminds me of something out of a 70's magazine.
Hootie 7 years
It looks limp & dirty. The color would be cute if she cut her hair. This just looks rat-a-tat-tat!
Sassette 7 years
Usually I like darker hair, but this shade really washes her out. The limp style and weird headband aren't helping.
partysugar 7 years
Love it, I wish more young starlets were going ginger instead of the requisite blonde.
warau 7 years
the color suits her face.
warau 7 years
the color suits her face.
SanDiegoLove 7 years
I don't like her either way. But I don't like her at all so I guess I'm biased...
gaulearnedimp 7 years
She looks like she walked straight out of the 70s.
breakbrooklyn 7 years
i like it. i never thought she was weird looking and i think it's funny that her unique looks are downed when they are a lot of strange looking models who are praised for their beauty.
jbrooks 7 years
I like the color, but I think she needs to do something with the style
vienvien 7 years
She looks washed-out.
Mokona 7 years
It looks too dark on her there. Would like to see a better/brighter photo.
alynch9 7 years
She looks really good!
alynch9 7 years
She looks really good!
herjoiedevivre 7 years
love auburn hair, think she looks great!
Pink81406 7 years
she is funny looking and she seems very strange
mizz_jennii 7 years
mizz_jennii 7 years
gloomyle 7 years
she looks more gypsy looking i like both colours on her.. the blonde and this
vinnie 7 years
i put undecided, because although the color suits her, i could care less.
purrtykitty 7 years
i think the color looks great on her. it brings out her freckles and warms up her skin tone.
mlen 7 years
it definitely changes the tone of her skin. i think its more a fall color though- she should have waited til october!
erinjg 7 years
I think the color looks a little flat.
miss-n 7 years
I love her hair colour now! it´s cute and really pretty. she looks like her sister Hania on this photo...
OliveBlack 7 years
Love it, I've been wanting to do my hair that colour for ages!
daisyeater21 7 years
she looks washed out
daisyeater21 7 years
she looks washed out
Julienne 7 years
i don't like it, only natural redheads and a very few other people can pull off red hair I'm sorry
CamillaCat 7 years
not really liking this
CamillaCat 7 years
not really liking this
bigestivediscuit 7 years
I think it looks terrible, especially with that metallic shapeless whatever she's wearing!
I_love_fashion 7 years
it looks cute, makes her look british
intensebandgeek 7 years
I liked it better when it was lighter.
jiujiu 7 years
reminds me of... me :)
jiujiu 7 years
reminds me of... me :)
Feesje 7 years
I think she looks like Bryce Dallas Howard with the new hair color.
nikkih 7 years
I like it...it reminds me of when I was a kid and I read those Pippi Longstocking books.
peachiepink 7 years
it makes her eyes pop so much. she looks like a darker (as in more evil) version of joni mitchell. (yes , i am probably the only one to see this, but to each her own)
han2 7 years
eh, not loving it.
han2 7 years
eh, not loving it.
MissAntipodea 7 years
I like her hair lighter.
MissAntipodea 7 years
I like her hair lighter.
Grace957 7 years
Grace957 7 years
nomerz 7 years
I like the color, but it's a bad picture.
sherbear5 7 years
she looks greasy... like a coke whore from the 70s.
Schaianne 7 years
I'd think I'd like it better if she did something better with it. I don't like this hairstyle at all ... it looks greasy.
girlboy 7 years
she looks more mysterious new york this way
Link Love
- The Girls actress admits she often goes without shampoo — Allure
- How to pull off Hailee Steinfeld's red eye shadow and lip combo — InStyle
- Create your own face mask with these customizable sheets — xoVain
- 5 Fall beauty buys under $20 — HuffPost Style
- Nars teams up with Christopher Kane for a cosmetics collaboration — Fashionista
- 1 woman stuns in 100 different makeup looks — Los Angeles Times
- How you can get a spa-quality facial at home — Teen Vogue
- Your hair loss might be alopecia, and here are the warning signs — Byrdie
- Why eye gloss is the new lip gloss — The Cut
- A red lipstick guide based on your skin tone — YouBeauty


text:
Deer roasts
View Single Post
Va Hunter
Musk Ox
Join Date: May 2008
Location: SW Virginia
Posts: 1,242
Does your wife not like the flavor of venison or the idea of what she's eating?
When fixing any venison, you should always remove any bone, fat and the "silver stuff" from the meat. All 3 cause the meat to taste different.
Personally, I like to take a whole hind quarter apart, piece by piece and marinate the pieces with a hickory marinade and carribean(sp?) jerk rub. Cook on a grill until the center gets to around 160 degrees. The meat will be somewhere between medium and ,medium rare. Just slice in 1/2'' pieces, after it rests for a few minutes. Served up with steamed broccoli and mashed taters!!!! DANG!!!!!!!
Another cooking method is the crockpot. Again, remove all of the "stuff" and put the meat in a crockpot along with a can of beef broth. I like to pepper the meat before adiing the vegegies. Add some baby peeled carrots, quartered potatoes and a sliced SWEET onion. Put the lid on it, turn it on medium low and go on about your business. You can cook this all day while at work. You can thicken the broth with some cornstarch if you like.
I hope one of these work out for ya.
Va Hunter
He took me!
Thanks Dad.
Wish you were here.
Proud Parent of a Marine
Va Hunter
View Public Profile
Send a private message to Va Hunter
Find all posts by Va Hunter


text:
Was £18.00 - £24.00
Now £9.00 - £12.00
Now £5.40 - £7.20
Up to 70% Off
Save up to £16.80
Standard Delivery
Click & Collect
International Delivery
Girl's black studded collar dress
Item No.2320201073
She'll love this beautiful dress from our great value range of designer girlswear from bluezoo. In black and white, this dress comes in black and white with a horizontal stripe at the top, Penny collar with studded detailing and a lightweight chiffon skirt that falls just above the knee.
- 50% Polyester 46% Viscose 4% Elastane
- 40 wash, Do not bleach, Do not tumble dry, Cool iron, Do not dry clean
Deliveries are between 8am - 6pm, Mon - Sat.
FREE if you pay with your Debenhams card
FREE delivery on all orders over £30 (normally £3.99)
Deliver to store for collection ( 160 participating stores ) FREE
International Delivery £7.00 to £15.00
Debenhams is happy to exchange or refund your purchase within 28 days providing the goods are in a fully resaleable condition (including tags) and not within the exclusion policy*. This policy does not affect your statutory rights. You can return unwanted items either by visiting your local store (the fastest way to get a refund), by arranging a courier collection or returning by post. Exclusions apply to selected products. For instructions on how to return products and information on Debenhams refund policy visit the returns and refunds section of the website.


text:
Before & After: Jérémy's Painted Vintage Fan
Today's Before & After comes from Jérémy, a very talented 16 year old designer from Canada. Here he transforms an old vintage fan from boring to bold with just a paint job.
From Jérémy:
Old machines are phenomenal artistic works, provided with the refurbishment if they need it. Here's how an old Eagle Aire fan can be rejuvenated after 50 years without losing its "vintage look."
I was walking into a flea market when I saw this little fan all yellowed by time. Immediately, I saw it in my head; fire truck red and chrome, like old cars in the 50s. I bought it for $8!
For more photos and step by step instructions (translated to English just for us!), check out Jérémy's blog, Les Chroniques d'un Designer.
Thanks, Jérémy!
Have your own Before & After project you'd like to share with the editors?Submit it here.
(Images: Les Chroniques d'un Designer)
23 Comments
Looks great!
Agreed! Adorable!
Wow, great job!
Adorable is definitely the word. I love it!
Well done! It looks beautiful!
This is the second retro fan restoration by paint that I've seen this month. So lovely! I'm inspired to go on the hunt for one I can restore myself. Funny, because I've been living in an old house without air conditioning and the thought of putting ugly fans all over the place turned me off. This totally solves that problem.
Thank ;you, Jérémy! It looks so cool! I'm going to try that on a box fan that I have. It will look so much better after a spray of my favorite green!
I second what Marjorie said! Infinitely nicer than any of my fans. Excellent and helpful tutorial, too!
He also switched out the plastic blade cover with a new metal one!
This was not just a paint job!
Or maybe removed the paint, but it looks different.
Very cool! I think an old fan that still runs will probably last longer than the extremely heavy and expensive POS fan I bought from Restoration Hardware that died after 3 years.
Beautifully done and super cute, too! The painted blade looks great. That was a nice touch!
no he painted the the grid using a chrome paint....
great job!
Totally cool.
If you look carefully at the before picture, you'll see that the blades are metal. He cleaned them up up they shine.
Well done!
Bravo! Gorgeous transformation. I'm inspired to try this myself.
I actually prefer the before look to the fan. It looks champagne colored.
I have a fan almost identical to this. I might try painting it champagne myself.
I love old fans - they hum and whir in such a lovely way and feel so sturdy. Bravo!
That's awesome! Now I want to find a fan...


text:
I'll have another bag of sand, please, with an extra dollop of cream on top
March 21, 2014 § 46 Comments
The most recent South Bay cycling kerfluffle and 24/7 Facebag drama was a beaut. The facts, such as they weren't, went something like this: Gimme Mah Trinket, a super fast live-to-ride badass MTB racer showed up at the Third Annual Fredfest and Dorkathon Cross Country Bicycle Race in Scratchypits, CA. Having won the Leadville-qualifying Barburner, and having completed Leadville itself once and sort-of-but-perhaps-not-really completed it a second time, Gimme signed up for the beginners' Cuddly Puppy Division race.
It was a full cuddly puppy field with six or seven riders, all of whom except for Gimme were excited to be racing their first ever, or second ever, or whatever MTB cross country race. Now I must insert here that I didn't even know that you raced cross country on a bicycle. I thought cross country was a kind of foot race, so when I was told that the controversy occurred at a cycling cross country race my first reaction was "Fugg' yeah, I bet those runners were sure pissed at getting beat by the bikers. I would be, too."
But not.
The cuddly puppies lined up with battle-hardened, steely legged Gimme Mah Trinket and got devoured. How badly did they get devoured? Gimme stomped their dicks by seven minutes. She finished so far ahead of the puppies that race officials temporarily lost contact with her ACARS.
The cuddlies struggled in across the line, puppy butts covered in dirt and briars and brambles and sweat and gel packs that had exploded in their jerseys and drizzled down into their buttcracks. And they did what puppies do when they get their noses rubbed in their own shit. They whined. And the whine they whined was the greatest, most famous, most oft-repeated complaint ever made anywhere by any wanker in the history of the USCF: Gimme Mah Trinket is a SANDBAGGER!
Gimme didn't really care. Her license listed her as a Cuddly Puppy despite being one of the strongest South Bay women on the road and in the dirt, she'd raced her category, and most importantly, she got her trinket. It was a beautiful, hand-carved, antique, hand-decorated water bottle from 1998 made during the Chee' Pass Dynasty in China. Then she went to the official and upgraded to a Cat 1. Apparently you can go from a Cat 3 to a Cat 1 in MTB just by saying, "Gimme a one, please."
Who knew?
Let the wailing begin
The cuddly puppies were outraged. They'd trained hard. They'd committed millions of dollars to this fine sport. They'd hired a coach, given up smoking meth, and told all their friends at work that they were going to do a "bicycle race." How unfair that a pro, a superstar, a hard woman, a ruthless, toothy, shark-blooded killer with a zillion miles under her belt would sandbag the Cuddly Puppy division? At the Scratchypits race, no less! The outrage!
A measure of just how much of a beginners race it was bubbled to the surface merely by airing the "Sandbagger!" complaint. If USA Cycling were a book with a subtitle, it would be this: "USA Cycling: Sandbagging for Fun and Trinkets."
The whole purpose of categories is to allow for organized sandbagging. If bikers wanted a real bike race, here's how it would be run:
- Men, women, mutants, cuddly puppies, ex pros, current pros, leaky prostates, loose bowels, juniors, seniors, and almost-corpses would line up together.
- The ref would blow a whistle.
- The first person across the line would be declared the winner.
This would result in a genuine bike race with genuine results. The winner could say, "I was the best racer that day." The down side is that races would have only thirty or forty riders, all of them would be in their late 20's, and the same three people would win every single race. In other words, hardly anyone would get a trinket. The bigger down side is that USA Cycling and the various race promoters wouldn't be able to promote races, because with entry fees from thirty riders you can't cordon off a street, supply ambulances, promote the event, and hire a couple of cheap plywood boxes for a podium.
This is why cycling has zillions of categories, groupings, rankings, and divisions, so that no matter how weak, feeble, inexperienced, or strategically stupid you are, there is "some" chance that you'll get a trinket. Trinkets get spread more democratically, race promoters get paid, and USA Cycling gets to send out another surly, obese, ill-tempered official to scream at you on a motorcycle.
Think of race categories for what they really are: Affirmative action for the weak, slow, and stupid. Without cycling's affirmative action program, 99.999% of all racers would never experience the thrill of getting a $20 prime, or enjoy the glory of standing on a plywood box in the blazing sun, or posting their "results" on Facebag. Our society would be poorer as a result. Moreover, at least in the SoCal crit scene, without affirmative action no white people would ever win anything, and we can't have that.
Do you really want a bike race?
The Scratchypits kerfluffle, if anything, proved that trinket racing really works, and it's not the first time that a veteran sandbagger has been booted upstairs to a harder division due to whining cuddlies. The most famous sandbagging case in SoCal history was the Great Prez SoCal Cup Upgrade and Meltdown, where our hero sandbagged as a Cat 3 for several years. Just as he was on the cusp of winning the SoCal Cat 3 Cup, some cuddly puppy's angry mom complained to the refs. "Prez is a sandbagger! Little Pookums can't win anything! Upgrade him!"
Prez got force upgraded, and so emotionally destroyed that the trinket was so rudely snatched away despite being within inches of his sweaty grasp, that he dropped out of racing for an entire year. Worse, now that's he's back as a Cat 2, he is forced to race with the 35+ Masters division, the biggest category of sandbaggers in the entire sport. These are the guys who are for the most part Cat 1's, Cat 2's, and ex-pros, but who'd rather win most of the time than lose all of the time. However, unlike the Cat 3 races, riders like Prez go from winning sandbagger to pack meat, as it's often difficult to finish and impossible to win. No more trinkets for Prez.
G$ tells a similar story about his own history of sandbagging. "When I was a Cat 3, I never wanted to upgrade. But after winning four out of sixty races, they force upgraded me. Some junior's mom complained and said me and Roadchamp were dominating everything. Boom. Cuddly puppy upgrade. But I was like, dude, I'm forty years old. How'm I gonna race with the Cat 2's? Their road races are a hundred miles long. I have a job, sort of. But they upgraded me anyway."
G$ went on to collect plenty of trinkets, but only as a masters sandbagger. In sum, the category system is there for you to sandbag. You pick the race you think you have the best chance of winning, and the race you can most likely win is always the one against the weakest field. The weakest field is always the oldest or the slowest or the least experienced category. This is how trinkets are won, how juice boxes are collected, and how well-practiced podium poses are executed for the three adoring fans.
Any other system would result in a bike race, and no one in their right mind wants one of those.
Least of all the cuddly puppies.
Help out a fellow sandbagger, ok? It's almost practically pretty much not too late to subscribe to the blog. Everything here is true except for the parts I've made up, which is all of it. Click here and select the "subscribe" link in the upper right-hand corner. I'll be glad you did.
The Atheist Training Bible for Old Bicycle Racers, Chapter 7: Wanky Toughness Pills
February 13, 2014 § 6 Comments
On Monday morning my inbox broke from the email deluge. Then on Tuesday the volume doubled. Today it finally tapered off and I've been able to read through all 34,872,011.92 emails regarding the catastrophic meltdown of Prez at the St. Valentine's Day Massacre crit in Brea. Here's a sampling of the anger:
"U suck WM. Prez wuz yer number one Wanky Training Plan ™ rider and he DNF'ed. FUKKKK UUUU!!"
"Wanky Training Plan is a fraud and a sham. Prez couldn't even finish the Brea crit using your fakish training plan. I want my money back once I pay you."
"Sad days all around for us WTP ™ adherents. We heard through the grapevine that Prez got shitcanned at the local Sunday crit using your training plan. Huge loss of confidence in your advice, Wanky."
"Dear Mr. Wankmeister: This is your formal notification of a class action lawsuit filed against you as a result of your fraudulent Wanky Training Plan ™ and its utter failure to get Prez across the finish line, much less a victory in a recent bicycle race. Blah, blah, blah."
"Heartbroken. Prez DNF. Wanky Training Plan ™ a failure. There is no Dog."
"Whats next Wanky or should I say Bernie Made-off, as in 'made off with all my money'? Your a crook and the Wanky Training Plan ™ is a faik. Going back to Elron Peterson and his one-legged drills. Look stupid I may, and broke it may make me, but defeat with honor."
"Yo, Wanky! I saw Prez sobbing in the gutter after NPR yesterday. Claimed the WTP ™ has made him SLOWER. WEAKER. LAZIER. FATTER. WTF?"
I can explain
First of all, it's true. After following the Wanky Training Plan ™ religiously, plus 2,500 hours in the gym, plus $8,762.09 spent on a special spin bike coach, plus an entire season dedicated to becoming the anchor in the SCC lead out train, Prez did in fact get shitcanned in the final laps of the race when the brutes on SCC brought it up to 35 mph and held it until the end, when Inkjet and Loverboy closed the deal in first and second place.
It's also true that Prez not only followed the WTP ™, but he got a custom Wanky tattoo on his special place so that he could remind himself how dedicated he was to the plan. And it's also true that he paid the Wanky Foundation (a non-profit group dedicated to helping wankers overcome their fear of doing hard road races) $75,000 for a signed diploma from the Wanky Institute and a collectible pair of Wanky's old underwear from back in the glory days.
The reason that he came unglued, quit, gave up, threw in the towel, and failed to finish the race had nothing to do with the Wanky Training Plan ™, a scientific system developed in conjunction with research from the Harvard labs, Olympic racing data, tea leaves, astrology, and input from Crazy Betsy the Psychic Reader.
No, the reason Prez abandoned, backed down, bailed out, bowed out, buckled under, capitulated, caved, chickened out, collapsed, cried uncle, folded, pulled out, stopped, and surrendered was because he forgot to take his Wanky Toughness Pills ™ before the race.
What's a Wanky Toughness Pill ™ ?
Elite members of the Wanky Training Plan ™ who have been diagnosed as having Low Toughness by a medical professional, psychotherapist, or playground bully are eligible to receive one bottle of Wanky Toughness Pills ™ to treat their Low – T.
When a racer follows all of the steps in the training plan but is still unable to hang in when the going gets tough due to his emotional frailty, he is put on a special regimen of raw kale and toughness pills. The Low – T is then ameliorated, turning the former milquetoast into a badass leg breaking pain drinking nail eating muddafugga.
Without divulging patient confidentiality, Prez suffered from extremely Low – T. His T was so low that he couldn't even take a pull on the NPR, kind of a threshold level of mental weakness that only a few baby seals are capable of de-spiring to. In sum, he received a double dosage of Wanky Toughness Pills ™ designed to remedy his habitual characteristic of "When the going gets tough, I get another frozen daiquiri."
After the race we spoke and he admitted that he'd forgotten to take his toughness pills. However, he also said that in order to make up for this week's epic collapse he had taken the whole bottle, eaten four pounds of raw kale, and was going to show up for UCLA Punchbowl to show "those skinny little fuggheads how it's done."
So before you go clamoring for a refund, watch for race results. You'll see who's been taking their toughness pills, and who hasn't.
Wankmeister cycling clinic #19: Ride stronger now!
August 11, 2013 § 25 Comments
Dear Wankmeister:
I have noticed that on big group rides like the Donut, I'm not nearly as fast as most of the others, even though my coach tells me I'm awesome, especially just after the monthly check clears. Even Prez beats me on the climbs. How can I go faster?
Bimsy Bohunk
Dear Bimsy:
Please push down harder on the pedals.
Dear Wankmeister:
I was on the Donut Ride this morning and some dude came up to me who wasn't, frankly, very nice. He said, "Yo, dude with the Arizona State Champion jersey. Did you win that or buy it at a fucking garage sale?" I was pretty insulted. I told him I'd won it this year. Then, even ruder, he said, "What did you championize, bro?" Championize? He was making fun of me. So I told him I was the Cat 5 state crit champ. That shut him up. So, two questions for you. 1) Who was that asshole? and 2) What's a guy gotta do around here to get a little respect? They aren't exactly handing these jerseys out on street corners, y'know?
Petey Puddinhead
Dear Petey:
1) That asshole was me. 2) At a minimum you'll need to not get dropped by the women on the false flats.
Bearer of bad newsily,
Dear Wankmeister:
I sure do hate the new Donut Ride route. It sux big greasy donkey hooters. It's too much climbing and it was already too much climbing. You might as well call it the "Rudy and Stathis Ride." Total bullshit. At a minimum we should have a no drop "B" ride that takes others' abilities into account, where we can regroup every twenty minutes or so, etc.
Patsy Poopsie
Dear Patsy:
There is a place were "B" rides are very fashionable, and where the weak, the sick, the elderly, the infirm, and the lame can ride at a friendly pace while discussing frame angles and wattage. It's called "San Diego."
Dear Wankmeister:
I read all your stuff and do everything you say. I went on your kimchi diet and lost 75 pounds, getting me down to about 132 (I'm 6'4″). After a while I got really sick, all my skin fell off, I lost my job from the absences and the giant scabs, then my girlfriend of ten years left me because of those kimchi farts. Now I see that your "new thing" is donuts and beer. I'm really eager to take this plunge, but once bitten, shame on you, twice bitten, you shouldn't be petting pit bulls, y'know? So what's the straight skinny? Donuts and beer, is it legit?
PS: I also tried that nose breathing thing you were raving about and now I get bad nosebleeds all the time and that Prez dude still drops me on all the climbs.
Freddy Fapper
Dear Freddy:
Donuts and beer are the bomb, but they only work when you've done a 6-month kimchi purge, which you have. So you're good to go. You should augment the donuts and beer with butter or with foods that are deep fried, like bubblegum or, best of all, deep fried butter. They're working on a new recipe for deep fried frying oil, so when they get the right mix of mercury and cadmium to stabilize the frying oil to allow it to be fried, you can add that to your power mix. Trust me on this.
Dear Wankmeister:
We read your blog from time to time out here in southern Illinois, and everyone pretty much agrees you're a douchebag farty-fuck. Just wanted you to know that.
Mailliw Enots
Dear Mailliw:
I understand that of the two actual bike racers you have in that part of your fine state, one of them spends all his free time in California, and the other has recently retired due to chronic tenderness of the loins.
Dear Wankmeister:
I was so friggin' stoked to finally get to do the Donut Ride this morning and ride with that Prez dude! He is the bomb! And he is stylish and cuts a pretty swashbuckling figure! Then better yet (as if it could get any better!!) he talked to me!!!!!!!!!! I was asking him training questions and he totally gave me the scoop!!! I was like, "What's with the 54 x 11 all the time?" Know what he said? "Power training!" Friggin' rad!! Everyone sure was powering by him!!! And I was like, "What about nutrition?" and he was like "Muscle Milk plus Muscle OJ plus Muscle Water plus Sweaty Excrescence of Skunk Testicle, it's the bomb!" Then I was like, "Fashion tips?" and he was like "White and black are your base colors; use purple and pink and gangrene yellow for the accents. Match your kits with custom socks and gloves that also go with your eyeliner." Eyeliner! How rad is that???
Mabel Lene
Dear Mabel:
So glad you hooked up with The Man! He's been in therapy for the last year since his forced upgrade, but has finally come out of his shell and is gearing up for 2014. You might want to avoid following his wheel too closely, though, or mentioning the words "Charon" or "Smith." He gets pretty agitated.
Dear Wankmeister:
Down and dirty: Is Froome really on the juice?
Mumsy Muckracker
Dear Mumsy:
Does the Pope like an all-boys choir?
Dear Wankmeister:
I'm perfectly happy with my nickname. I love it, in fact, and really appreciate all the time and effort you took to bestow it on me. My fiancee loves it, my co-workers love it (they Googled me last week), and all my teammates think it's super. I love it so much I'd never think of asking for a new one, 'cause I've heard that only results in getting a really BAD nickname, unlike the cool one I really love and want to keep. Anyway (good riding on the Donut and other rides, btw, you're killing it, you're a beast and a monster [PS: props on the TV announcing gig, you ROCKED it], I know you're going to kill it at nationals), so, I just wanted you know how much I love the blog and my nickname. Awesome stuff, good times! (Fist bump, bro!!). My fiancee's mom is coming into town for the wedding here in a few weeks, and she was Googling me too, and she saw my nickname and was like WTF? I told her how cool it is and that it really means you respect the hell out of me but she's from an Asian culture and she just didn't "get" it, you know? There's no way I'd ever give up my nickname, not even for her. Still, she got to complaining to my fiancee (who LOVES the nicky, as I said), and it's become something of an "issue" here right before we get married. So, this is a long way of saying that — and this is NOT for me — could you get me a nickname that uses the word "cobra" or "stingray" or "lethal" and we'll just use it until the MIL goes home, and we're through with the wedding and things have settled in? You rock, buddy!
Dear Sausage:
Done, my friend. Henceforth you are "Cobra Penis." See you on the road, and give my best to your mother in-law.