text:
Dozens Feared Dead In TransAsia Airways Crash In Taiwan
More than 50 people are feared dead following the crash of a TransAsia Airways passenger plane in Taiwan. Taiwan's CNA news agency says the twin-engine turboprop plowed into the ground just outside of airport today while attempting an emergency landing. Heavy rain and strong winds were reported in the area in the wake of Typhoon Matmo. A photo of the crash scene shows twisted metal and debris strewn about the area.
Malaysia Airlines, which has lost two planes this year, tweeted about today's crash in Taiwan saying "Our thoughts are with all those on board TransAsia Airways #GE222, their families and loved ones."

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Report: Selig may invoke integrity clause to ban A-Rod
(New York, NY) -- If New York Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez appeals his expected Biogenesis suspension, Bud Selig may really lay down the hammer. The "Daily News" reports the commissioner would invoke a "preserving the integrity of the game" clause that would lead to a lifetime ban. "A-Rod's" lawyer told ESPN New York's 98.7 FM that their focus is on an appeal and that Rodriguez wants to play again. It's believed baseball would allow "A-Rod" to return in 2015 if he doesn't try and fight the suspension.
The "Daily News" says suspensions for Rodriguez and 14 other players are expected to be announced imminently. All have reportedly been linked to the Florida clinic accused of distributing performance-enhancing drugs. Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Ryan Braun has already been suspended for the rest of this season.


text:
WATCH: Lady Gaga & the Muppets plan 'greatest finale in the history of finales'
Listen to Lady Gaga on iHeartRadio
Kermit the Frog unveiled the first look at the upcoming "Lady Gaga & the Muppets' Holiday Spectacular" special on "The View" on Wednesday.
In the clip, the pop star and the gang brainstorm ideas for "the greatest finale in the history of finales."
The results of their efforts will air on Thanksgiving night.
Check out the video below!


text:
The Diamond Python, Morelia spilota spilota, is a large species with more than 40 rows of mid-body scales. It has a basic colour pattern of black with yellow spots and grows to around 3 m in length.
Diamond PythonPhotographer: Peter Robertson / Source: Wildlife Profiles Pty Ltd
Within Victoria, the Diamond Python is restricted to the coastal heaths of far East Gippsland.
Diamond Pythons will bask during the day, but are primarily nocturnal and hunt for small to medium-sized, warm-blooded vertebrates at night. The females lay a clutch of 10 to 30 eggs in a cluster and care for them. The pythons are the only Victorian snakes to exhibit any form of parental care.
Diamond Pythons are non-venomous, but are capable of inflicting a painful bite. They kill their prey by constriction.
Diamond Python (close-up of head)Photographer: Peter Robertson / Source: Wildlife Profiles Pty Ltd
Coventry, A. J. and Robertson, P. 1991. The Snakes of Victoria – A Guide to their Identification. Department of Conservation & Environment/Museum of Victoria.
Cogger, H. 2000. Reptiles and Amphibians of Australia. Reed Books.
Wilson, S. & Swan, G. 2003. Reptiles of Australia. Princeton University Press.
Hi Sean. Thanks for your enquiry. We will pass this on to one of our staff members in live exhibits for their feedback on this. So watch this space.
Hi again Sean. We referred your enquiry about Diamond Python care to our Coordinator, Live Exhibits. We have similar snakes to these pythons and he referred us to a website that has good, reliable, detailed information on Diamond Python care: http://www.dolittlefarm.com.au/docs/diamonds.pdf
We hope this helps you out and good luck!
Hi Kate, thanks for your enquiry, the Diamond Python, Morelia spilota spilota is usually found in the coastal regions of NSW (Reptiles and Amphibians of Australia, H. C. Cogger, 2000). Another subspecies, morelia spilota variegate, commonly known as a Carpet Python is found in northern Queensland.
Hi Lorraine, you will see from the information posted previously, the Diamond Python is usually found in the coastal area of New South Wales and the Carpet Python sometimes found in Northern Queensland. You may find contacting the Queensland Museum or Brisbane's Alma Park Zoo helpful with providing a scientific identification of the snake.
Hi Carlo - we referred your question to our Live Exhibits experts, who said that six months without handling may make the snake a little more nervous. However if it was quiet previously it should remain pretty quiet – particularly at a mature age. Most good tempered adult pythons remain so for life.
Hi Deleena, if you have not had this snake for all that long you are possibly experiencing its first slough. This is when it peels back its old scales to reveal the new ones underneath. Pythons tend to do this in one long sock so you can dry the old scales and keep them to monitor its growth. Once they start to shed their scales it is best to leave them to it. Sometimes, they struggle to get them off in which case a water bath, some rocks and some manual help may be required.
Hi Bronwyn,
We forwarded your enquiry to our Live Exhibits team, and they responded with the following:
Snakes are not the only potential culprit. Rats are well known for attacks like this, as are possums. They are usually smart enough to work out how to open cages and will simply carry the bird out and eat it somewhere else.
If a snake entered the cage and ate the bird it is unlikely that it would be able to get out afterwards. Many people have in fact used bird cages to trap escaped snakes as they snake enters the cage and then is too large to escape once it has eaten the occupant.
If a snake is to blame it is most likely a Diamond python native to the Sydney region.
Hi Jen,
We forwarded your question to Museum Victoria's Live Exhibits team who provided us with the following information:
A two foot long diamond python would be approximately 12 months old, and has most likely wandered into the home as it has moved from its place of birth looking to set up its own territory. Clutches of 20 eggs are not uncommon but mortality in juvenile snakes is very high, with only a small percentage surviving to adulthood.
The ideal temperature for a snake of this type is 20 degrees overnight temperature and about 24-25 during the day. The bottom of the enclosure is the coolest part, so it will always be warmer higher up (as heat rises). There should also be a warm spot available for a couple of hours in the middle of the day, to allow the snake to bask as it would naturally. A warm spot is most easily supplied by a basking lamp on a timer, which enables the snake to move back and forth into the most suitable location temperature-wise.
Hi Mel,
We forwarded your enquiry to the Museum's Live Exhibits team, who responded with the following information:
Diamond Pythons can feed on fuzzies (velvets) from the egg stage. If they do have any problems feeding you can always revert to pinkies, but there's no reason why they shouldn't take fuzzies. The snake will grow in size proportional to the amount of food it consumes – a 14 week old python can eat once a week, and you can try adult mice any time from now on. If it doesn't take adult mice, keep feeding it fuzzies until it does.
Skinks are native wildlife (including those from your own backyard) so it's illegal to collect them for any reason without a licence. It's also not necessary as there are plenty of other food options available, and there is definitely no need to feed them live in this situation.
Hi Karen,
Diamond Pythons are restricted to coastal areas of eastern Australia and don't inhabit arid or semi-arid areas, so they have no particular adaptations to water conservation. Various types of Carpet Pythons, members of the same species as Diamond Pythons but different subspecies, do inhabit the drier areas of the country. Diamond Pythons will sit in water and can generally tolerate wetter conditions than Carpet Pythons.
Hi Kiana,
Female diamond pythons lay between 15-20 eggs, which usually take between 2-3 months to hatch. The females lay their eggs approximately 2 months after breeding takes place and they incubate their eggs at 25OC by coiling around the eggs. Female snakes in the wild may only lay eggs once every three years. Breeding pythons can be a complex procedure as specific temperature changes and habitat are vitally important at each stage of the breeding cycle. If you need to investigate getting a permit to own these animals please refer to the relevant information here.
The 'tail' of the python is the area posterior to the cloaca - the very end of the snake. Eggs are produced further up the snake, so a fat tail may indicate a well-fed snake rather than anything to do with eggs production.
Hi Pam,
Diamond Pythons (Morelia spilota spilota) will usually feed on rat-sized prey but have been known to take possums. If the python is to live in your garden it will need to eat, just as the rats and possums do, and is as much a part of the local ecosystem as they are.
30 degrees is too hot for a Diamond Python (Morelia spilota spilota). They should be kept at 24-28 degrees, even when young, as they won't feed at high temperatures. During winter at this time of year they can be kept unheated, as long as they are inside and are more or less at room temperature. It's highly unusual to have eight week old snakes during winter, even from a dealer – Diamond Pythons are obligate spring and summer breeders so the young are inevitably older than eight weeks in July.
We love receiving comments, but can't always respond.
I travelled on ship Patris from Sydney to Pireu Greece on the 17th December.I think it was Friday. We left Sydney Harbour at 21,00 PM. We were from Yugoslavia a...
To read the latest tweets from @museumsvictoria
Follow Museums Victoria on
I have just been browsing through my daily diary I kept at the age of 13 of my voyage on the caste felice . I sailed from Southhampton on July 31st 1968 arrivin...


text:
Baby gorilla thrives with human surrogates in Ohio
CINCINNATI: A baby gorilla being raised temporarily by human surrogate parents is doing well — learning to roll over, sit up and getting ready to walk on all fours.
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden primate specialists say "Gladys" is in good health, developing and growing quickly with loving care from 10 humans imitating a gorilla mom's behavior.To read more or comment...
Spring break camp at Cleveland Zoo
Cleveland Zoo is introducing the camp for children ages 5-12 who will explore the entire zoo, focusing on what happens throughout spring. Campers will tour zoo exhibits, enjoy Get Close animal encounters, play conservation-themed games and make arts and crafts.
The two sessions are: March 25-29 and April 1-5. Each session has half-day and full-day availability. To register, visit clemetzoo.com/education/breakcamps or call 216-635-3391.To read more or comment...
Video: Extreme sheepherding with LED lights
This may be more of a farming thing than a pets thing, but it's still pretty great. Make sure to stay for the fireworks finale.
To read more or comment...
Video: Clever bird figures out how to get treat
Watch this bird assess the situation and figure out how to retrieve it's cashew snack.
To read more or comment...
Green cleaning for humans can still sicken pets
LOS ANGELES: As the time nears for spring cleaning and companies offer more environmentally friendly alternatives to toxic cleaners, veterinarians say pet owners should keep in mind that what's green to a human can be dangerous — even deadly — to animals.
"People expose their animals without even realizing the risk," said Dr. Karl Jandrey, who works in the emergency and critical care units at the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital at the University of California, Davis. "That's the most common thing that happens when you come to our emergency room — the clients put their pets at risk because they were unaware of how significant the damage could be."To read more or comment...
Video: Cat plays dead better than your dog
This cat can take commands, for those sweet, sweet treats.
To read more or comment...
Video: News anchor can't stop laughing at swimming cat
Challenge: Attempt to watch this video without laughing. Chances are you'll fail.
To read more or comment...
Area pets news briefs
Feral Cat Seminar — 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 16 at One of a Kind Pet Rescue Adoption Center, 1929 W. Market St., Akron. An informative seminar for those interested in learning how to humanely control the cat population through Trap-Neuter-Return. There is no charge for the program and reservations are not required. Call 330-867-6890 for more information.To read more or comment...
Meet Gladys Stones, Ohio zoo's youngest gorilla
CINCINNATI: A baby gorilla that was recently moved to the Cincinnati Zoo from Texas now has a name.
Cincinnati Zoo officials say the female baby gorilla has been named Gladys Stones. That comes from the Gladys Porter Zoo in Brownsville, Texas, where she was born Jan. 29, and from zoo employees Jerry and Cindy Stones there. They cared for the baby at the Texas zoo because her mother displayed a lack of maternal care.
The zoos agreed it was best to relocate the baby to the Cincinnati Zoo, where two female gorillas are available to serve as potential surrogate mothers. Cincinnati Zoo workers over the next few months will help prepare Gladys to join the other gorillas.
Cincinnati Zoo officials said Friday the baby is growing and doing well.To read more or comment...
Dog may have been poisoned at Westminster, owner says
NEW YORK: A dog owner says she thinks there's a chance her prized pet was deliberately poisoned while competing at the Westminster Kennel Club show, causing it to die several days later.
"It is in the realm of possibility," Lynette Blue told The Associated Press on Thursday.
Blue co-owns a 3-year-old Samoyed named Cruz, and said he probably swallowed poison at Westminster earlier this month. Four days after competing, the dog died, on Feb. 16, while at a show in Colorado.
Blue has worked since the 1970s with Samoyeds, a sturdy, medium-sized breed. She said that while there was no evidence foul play was involved, certain symptoms were consistent with dogs who ingest rat or mouse poison. That was the reason she said she decided against a necropsy — an autopsy for animals.
"The timeline adds up. There's no other scenario we can come up with other than poison," she said.To read more or comment...
- 2014 (21)
- 2013 (135)
- 2012 (353)
- 2011 (380)
- 2010 (415)
- 2009 (776)
- 2008 (2)


text:
Be a part of a unique online community that connects post production professionals and film academics worldwide.
You'll have access to personalize your news feed, access to Live Post Talks and much more. Contribute to the community by posting interesting post production content.
March 9, 2009, 12:18 pm
In my many years as an Avid and Final Cut Pro editor, I have become intimately familiar with the differences between the two platforms, and have worked to help minimize those differences. In most cases, the differences are cosmetic, requiring little more from the editor than learning the FCP equivalents of Avid buttons and commands. However, there are still some Avid functions or workflows for which there is no analogue in FCP, and nowhere is this more evident than in the area of project...
July 21, 2017, 9:29 am
In 2014, Lou Pecora explained to us about the work of Digital Domain on X-MEN: DAYS OF FUTURE PAST. He speaks to us today about his work on SPIDER-MAN: HOMECOMING.
July 21, 2017, 6:24 am
CHICAGO -- SIGGRAPH 2017, the world's leading annual interdisciplinary educational experience showcasing the latest in computer graphics and interactive techniques, has announced highlights from this year's Emerging Technologies, Studio, and Real-Time Live! programs. SIGGRAPH 2017 will mark the 44th International Conference and Exhibition on Computer Graphics and Interactive Techniques, and will be held 30 July–3 August 2017 in Los Angeles.
July 21, 2017, 6:24 am
The most intimidating factor for people new to 360° video is "how to stitch all of the footage together?" Just the term "stitching" sounds labor intensive. Luckily for us, this isn't the case at all. Stitching software has come a long way in just a few short years, and companies like Kolor have really focused on streamlining the process. In this tutorial, we are going to learn how to stitch 360° video with AutoPano Video Pro and hopefully provide you with an understanding of the steps involved in the process.
July 21, 2017, 6:24 am
The SIGGRAPH 2017 Production Sessions program provides a platform for creative professionals to explain their processes and techniques in the fields of computer animation, visual effects, games, virtual reality, themed entertainment, and the software applications used by the artists who create them. Each presentation ends with a Q&A session that allows attendees to quiz the experts.
July 20, 2017, 10:08 am
You probably haven't heard of a special effects company called MOVA, but you've seen its Contour facial-capture technology in films like Guardians of the Galaxy and Beauty and the Beast. It could also have a big impact your entertainment choices. The company behind the tech, Rearden LLC, has filed an injunction against Walt Disney Co. to block those two films, along with Avengers: Age of Ultron, from sales or distribution.
July 20, 2017, 5:47 am
Encore VFX – Visual effects breakdown for "The Flash" episode 313. VFX by Deluxe's Encore and supervised by Armen Kevorkian.
July 20, 2017, 5:47 am
Encore VFX – Visual effects breakdown for "Supergirl" episode 221. VFX by Deluxe's Encore and supervised by Armen Kevorkian.
July 20, 2017, 5:47 am
Introducing V-RAYforC4D 3.4. Check out its quality images with no settings, the brand new improved materials and shaders, the new built-in special effects, the accurate lights and improved GI and the blazing fast rendering speed.
July 20, 2017, 5:47 am
The Blender Foundation has released a test build of Blender 2.79: a near-final public version of the next update to the open-source 3D modelling and animation software.
July 19, 2017, 4:06 pm
One of the toughest things about covering visual effects can be getting great VFX imagery to display with a story. There's often a lengthy approvals process, and sometimes film and TV distributors just want to keep certain things under wraps. That can make it hard to produce interesting stories; in visual effects, behind the scenes images and videos tell so much of the process.
Sebastián Sepúlveda joins Gordon to discuss the editing of the film Jackie. They explore how structuring a real ...
Stuart joins Gordon to discuss A Series of Unfortunate Events for Netflix and what the difference is between working for Broa ...
In this episode of The Cutting Room, we explain just where we have been for the past four months. We'll begin regularly ...
Choose what Post News gets sent directly to your E-Mail, daily or weekly.
Get your post news on your favourite Apple device, when you want it where you want it.
Get your post news on your favourite Android device with the AOTG Android App.


text:
REPORT: Beyonce pregnant with second child?
Listen to Beyonce on iHeartRadio
It looks like Blue Ivy may become a big sister soon! Sources have confirmed exclusively to E! News that Beyonce is pregnant with baby number 2!!
Rumors have been circulating recently that Queen Bey is expecting. She recently appeared on the red carpet at the Met Gala wearing a custom-made Givenchy gown that concealed, what appears to be a baby bump. Then earlier this week, she cancelled a show (on doctor's orders), due to "exhaustion and dehydration." This only fueled the pregancy rumors even further.
Of course, this is all surrounding her recent interview with ABC, saying that she would like to have more children.
According to E!, Jay's reps had no comment, and Beyonce's reps could not be reached for comment.
Photo Credit Getty Images


text:
Pope Reaches Out to Atheists in Letter to Newspaper
(NEWSER) – In yet another nontraditional act, Pope Francis has reached out to atheists and agnostics in a letter to an Italian newspaper. Francis told atheists that they should "abide by their own conscience" and that "God's mercy" extends to them, too. (They weren't his first welcoming words to atheists.) Newsy reports:


text:
Was $99.95 NOW $49.95
This is the 12-DVD collection of piano-playing tips and techniques led by Scott Houston, the Emmy Award-winning host of the public television series The Piano Guy. Geared toward beginners (but with a wealth of insight for more experienced players), the series offers 22 hours of the "tips, cheap tricks, and professional secrets" Houston is famous for. Featuring overhead videography of hands on the keyboard, the simplified, easy-to-follow techniques are like having an instructor in the room while practicing basic chords, slides, pedal tones, roots and left-hand patterns. As in Houston's television show, these lessons keep students engaged by building skills around well-known pop songs such as Mack the Knife, Moon River, Imagine, and Sweet Home Alabama, as well as Christmas carols and hymns. Some songs include printable sheet music and audio tracks for pianists to accompany. 12" H x 10" W x 3" D. (3 lbs.)
Lifetime Guarantee
The Learn to Play Piano DVDs come with The Hammacher Schlemmer Lifetime Guarantee. If this product ever disappoints you, for any reason, you may return your Hammacher Schlemmer purchase for exchange, credit, or refund.
Should you have any questions, we are available seven days a week (8:00 am – midnight EST). Please call 1-800-321-1484 to speak with a specialist or email us at email@example.com to receive a response within three business hours or less.
Sale item quantities are limited — please order soon.
Shipping charges noted in parentheses apply in addition to our standard shipping & service.
We're sorry, but gift wrap is not available. Please call 1-800-395-7006 for Premium or Express delivery rates.
Oversized items scheduled for expedited delivery (Premium or Express) may incur additional shipping and services charges because of their unusual size. Please call 1-800-321-1484 for an estimate of S&S charges. International callers, please call 1-513-860-3397.
We're sorry, but gift wrap is not available for oversized items.
Shipped via truck and may require customer assistance upon delivery. You will be contacted to make an appointment for delivery.
We're sorry, but gift wrap and gift cards are not available.
GST still applies and will be charged upon processing. For complete shipping & service charges please call Customer Service at 1-800-321-1484.
May we recommend:
(based on 4 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
5 Stars
4 Stars
3 Stars
2 Stars
1 Stars
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Best Uses
Reviewed by 4 customers
Displaying reviews 1-4
Back to top
(9 of 9 customers found this review helpful)
enthusiastic instructor
By An inspired piano student
from Los Angeles, County
I was very excited when I received the program, but unfortunately, I did not enjoyed it as much as I thought I would. My reasons as follow: The instructor repeats himself on the first two CDs, I felt as instead of having twelve CDs to work from, we only have eleven. Another problem was that we had to go online to get some of the "Leads", but I was not able to find the website. The Leads should come in the box, this would help to avoid using the computer unnecessarily. Otherwise, the program works as long as you spend the time practicing. :) I would recommend this product with some reservations :)
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Was this review helpful? Yes / No
- flag this review
(6 of 6 customers found this review helpful)
A great value.
By Tony
from Salt Lake City, UT
I'm still working my way through the information, but it's very clear that this method is what people are looking for in terms of recreational piano playing.Also, the product offered by Hammacher Schlemmer appears to be a much better value than some of the "combo packs" offered else where.I highly recommend this product as a starting point to enjoy playing the piano for "sport."
(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)
Great for beginners and advanced players
By KBSG
from Detroit Mich
I use it at home and work it is fun to watch and the instructor is interesting and funny sometimes my whole family uses it thank you for supplying this course
Not as expected
By Ladybug
from Gaithersburg, MD
The first two DVD's had some value but the remaining 10 were okay to listen to but you couldn't learn anything from them.
Bottom Line No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Hammacher Schlemmer Response: If you are not fully satisfied with this product, you can return it to us for any reason, at any time, under our lifetime guarantee of satisfaction. Please contact us at 1-800-321-1484 if you would like to return these DVDs.
COPYRIGHT © 2017 HAMMACHER SCHLEMMER & COMPANY, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. W108147 E. 57th ST • NEW YORK, NY • 10022 • 1-800-_321-1484


text:
Coming soon: Paid YouTube subscriptions
(NEWSER) – Might you soon have to pay for the privilege of watching a cat ride around on a Roomba? YouTube is introducing subscriptions, possibly as soon as this week, but don't worry: They're only for "specialist" channels, theFinancial Times reports. As many as 50 channels will be available for prices starting at $1.99 a month. It's not clear which channels will be involved, but channel partners include such offerings as the Onion and World Wrestling Entertainment. One source says the plan will allow channels to produce original shows and films, and another says cable and satellite channels may offer up both old and new programs as part of the program.


text:
Grandpa charged after baby sold on Facebook
(NEWSER) – A man in India has been arrested for trying to sell his newborn grandson online. Feroz Khan, 47, is alleged to have kidnapped the baby shortly after his birth in Ludhiana, reports the AFP, telling his daughter the infant was stillborn. He reportedly sold the baby for $830 to a nurse, who sold him to a hospital lab assistant for about $5,500, who in turn sold him to a New Delhi businessman for almost $15,000, the Hindu Business Line reports. Police recovered the baby from the businessman's home. Five people have been arrested over the deals, and the baby was returned to his mother.


text:
The answer to the McCutcheon decision is more big money in politics
The morning after the Supreme Court's landmark ruling in McCutcheon v. FEC brings progressives a splitting headache. The 5-4 ruling along the usual conservative-liberal lines, while not unexpected, has broad implications. Like it or not—and assuredly, progressive do not like it—the era of effective limits on contributions to federal politicians is drawing to a close. Want to write a million-dollar check to support a candidate? Chances are that now, or someday soon, you can.
For four decades, since the campaign finance reforms of the 1970s, limits on big-dollar, direct gifts to politicians have been the beating heart of the progressive paradigm. Before McCutcheon, donors could give only $2,600 to an individual candidate in any one election cycle—and they could only give an aggregate of $48,600 to all campaigns. (Here's the whole list of contribution limits.) InMcCutcheon, the court struck down the aggregate limit, reversing its own prior holding in the seminal 1976 case Buckley v. Valeo.
To be sure, the legal limit on contributions to individual candidates remains in place (for the time being; it will be challenged). But it will now be "child's play," as the Campaign Legal Center notes (PDF), "to transfer multiple contributions from a single donor between party and candidate committees for the purpose of directing all or part of the total amount to the donor's preferred recipients."
A calamity for the 1970s paradigm? Yes. A calamity for progressives? Maybe not. There is a way forward, a potential win for both freedom and political accountability, though it requires progressives to hold their nose and swallow hard: raise contribution limits. A lot. A whole lot. Like, allow contributions of up to $1 million for presidential campaigns and up to $200,000 and $50,000, respectively, for Senate and House campaigns. (In 2012, an average winning Senate campaign spent $10.4 million, and a winning House campaign spent $1.6 million, according to Vital Statistics on Congress.)At the same time, as part of the deal, close the wide gaps in today's rules requiring the disclosure of donations.
Wait. Allow Senate candidates to hit up victims—sorry, donors—for $200,000 at a time? Legitimize contributions of a size that virtually guarantees special attention from office-holders? Why should progressives conceivably support that? Because the old means no longer serve the desired ends. As of now, the case for low contribution limits has all but evaporated—even if you believe, as I do, that the limits once made sense and that the Buckley court was correct in upholding them.
The Buckley rationale was that contribution limits prevent corruption, and the appearance of corruption, by keeping donations small enough to obviate pay-for-play and political racketeering. Politicians would raise modest amounts from multiple donors; fat cats would lose clout; the public would gain confidence that the system wasn't hostage to plutocrats.
Over time, however, as electioneering costs soared, low contribution limits had the unintended effect of making money hard to raise. The need to raise large amounts in small sums is a reason (not the only one, of course) that politicians spend far too much time every day dialing for dollars.
Read The Full Article On The Daily Beast
More articles from The Daily Beast:
- CIA Strikes Back On Benghazi
- A Lot of Earthquakes Have Been Reported Lately, but Scientists Aren't Worried
- Cases of New Tick-Borne Illness, Heartland Virus, Grow
© 2013 Newsweek/Daily Beast Company LLC


text:
Teen who sued parents for money returns home
(NEWSER) – Rachel Canning, the New Jersey teen who made headlines by suing her parents for college tuition money, is ... back at their place. Her parents' attorney announced today that the 18-year-old returned to the family home and has "reunited with her parents and siblings," but that the return "is not contingent on any financial and/or other considerations." Canning moved out in October and had been staying with her best friend, whose family paid her legal fees and has been accused of providing her with alcohol.
Read the full story on Newser.com


text:
Getting out the vote
Yes, I know LinuxCon has come and gone, and I think they've got the publicity thing covered, especially with the 20-year thing, the gala party, and with Linus being there and all. The buzz is still going, and that's good. But if you're going to a Linux show, make it the Ohio LinuxFest in September. Bradley Kuhn and Cathy Malmrose are keynoting — along with Jon "maddog" Hall — so you'll not want to miss that (especially Cathy — Go ZaReason!).
With the upcoming deadline for the Linux Journal Readers' Choice 2011 Awards upon us — it closes this Saturday — other bloggers have been been taking to beating the drum and holding the phone for their favorites.
Not to be outdone, of course, there are a few candidates on the LJ ballot that deserve special mention. If I were campaigning for them, I'd definitely cast votes for items in the following categories (note, however, the list of categories and software on the ballot is long, and they're not all here):
Best Linux Distribution: No question, hands down. Fedora. Judging which is the best distro is akin to picking the best ice cream flavor — each of us has our own favorites, and hopefully you'll vote for yours. Mine comes in blue, is based on Red Hat, has the best desktop background release after release (the Design Team at Fedora is the best in the FOSS realm, period), it's always rock solid, and even if I can't use the default GNOME 3 desktop, Fedora runs great under KDE or Xfce. Fedora is reaching a point now where the myth that it's "only for experience users" is falling by the wayside, and if a lack of confidence in your skills has kept you from using Fedora, you should give it a try.
Best Desktop Environment: Oh, look! A minefield! Let's skip through it! You all know how I feel about GNOME 3; the aspect that I can't use it due to older equipment moreso than anything else (if I could vote for GNOME 2.32, that would be great). KDE? I like KDE though — truth in advertising — I'm a post-KDE 4.x user and not familiar with the way things used to be (and not familiar with why there's such a hubbub about it). I don't know why Openbox and Fluxbox, both windows managers, are in this category, and why isn't there a separate WM category? How did I vote? I'm cast a vote this year for Xfce, because I'm using it on Fedora 15 and will be using it again on Fedora 16, and while it's reputation is a lightweight environment, I'm finding there's a significant degree of tweakability to it. Also, if you really like WMs, I'd vote for OpenBox.
Best Web Browser: Konqueror. Just kidding. While there are some advantages to Konqueror that do not involve Web browsing, for getting on the information superhighway I usually go with Firefox, though on the Windows box at the newspaper I use Chrome. It's a toss up between those two.
Best E-mail Client: Another minefield and another tough call. What I use most is Thunderbird, because everybody knows the 'Bird is the word, and it's always worked well for me. What has always worked well for me in the past, too, and something I've always thought was one of KDE's stars is Kmail, which deserves a vote if you're so inclined. Claws is something I'm looking to try and haven't yet, so maybe if it wows me, it can be a leading candidate for 2012.
Best IRC client: Simple — it's irssi. It's what the cool kids use, once they graduate past Xchat. Konversation gets high marks, too, and readily available on KDE. But I voted for irssi.
Best Office Suite: OK, here's where we get to make history. Vote for LibreOffice — it's OpenOffice as it should be. It would be outrageously cool if LibreOffice took home the prize in this category, for starters because it deserves it, and it would be a good nose-thumbing to Oracle as well.
Best Graphic Design Tool: All of them. I'm serious. If there's ever been a category where each of the candidates deserves to win, it's this one. GIMP finally gets a single window, I'm told, thank $DIETY, but I ended up voting for . . . Inkscape. I'm not the artist in the family; that title goes to my daughter Mimi, but having drawn a little, I do like Inkscape a lot.
Best Audio Tool: Audacity. If Carla Schroder uses it and writes a book about it, then I'm there.
Best Kid Friendly Application: Another easy one — Tux Paint. I should be ashamed to admit this, but I'm not: Ever since Mimi was younger and we used Tux Paint together when she was learning her way around a computer, I have always loved this program and I still fiddle with it from time to time when I'm not doing anything else. Also, I count Tux Paint as one of the main influences in cultivating the artistic talent Mimi has shown.
Best Game: As bad as I am at it, I still think Super Tux gets the nod here, as it's a very creative game. Truth be told, I've never played any of the games on the list, except for Tux Racer, and I know my good friend Ken Starks over at the HeliOS Project is a fan of World of Goo.
Best Database: Our first heart-versus-head conundrum. If MySQL were the best, I may not vote for it on principle, but fortunately other databases have knocked MySQL from its perch at the top. I've only used two other databases and have liked them both: PostgreSQL and MariaDB. I really want to see MariaDB do well, but PostgreSQL is clearly the best of the bunch.
Best Programming Language: Again, the ice cream comparison comes into play and in my limited programming experience, I vote for what I know best. That would be Python.
Best scripting language: bash — accept no substitutes (OK, ksh if you need to).
Best IDE: Emacs in the hands of someone who really knows what they're doing (and sadly, that's not me) is simply an amazing tool. But I'm voting for vim. I can get more done using it, and I'm never backed into a corner, as I am sometimes with Emacs. Sorry, RMS.
Best Package Management Application: If it sounds like it tastes good, you have to go with it: yum. Honorable mention goes to Synaptic.
Best Content Management System: I've used Mambo and Joomla! in the past, and those happen to be my CMS roots. However, having used Drupal over the last few months, I have to say that I've made the switch. Drupal gets my vote this year.
Best Linux Laptop Vendor/Best Linux Desktop Workstation Vendor/Best Linux Server Vendor: I'm lumping these three categories together because the vote is the same in each category — ZaReason. The Berkeley, Calif., outfit makes outstanding, dependable hardware that's Linux based (or if you'd prefer, no operating system) and the service is top notch. You'll have to write in ZaReason in the Best Linux Desktop Workstation Vendor category, but you can mark the ballot in the other two.
Best Linux Book: A real page-turner, especially if you're into audio — "The Book of Audacity," by Carla Schroder. Buy it now.
Again, there's a plethora of other categories that I haven't touched on. Polls are open until Saturday. Vote early.
This blog, and all other blogs by Larry the Free Software Guy and Larry Cafiero, are licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs CC BY-NC-ND license. In short, this license allows others to download this work and share it with others as long as they credit me as the author, but others can't change it in any way or use it commercially.
(Larry Cafiero is one of the founders of the Lindependence Project and has just started developing software in his new home office. Watch this space.)


text:
Issue No 72|
Summer Quarter | August/September
Like us!
Here are some of the more commonly
asked questions about community colleges,
universities and Green River. If you
do not find all the information you
are looking for, please
send us your questions and we will
get right back to you with the answers.
Community colleges are
a major sector of the U.S.
education system. More than
11 million students, about
46 percent of all undergraduate
students, attend community
colleges throughout the
United States.
Community colleges provide
the first two years of university
education, called "lower
division courses" preparing
students to transfer to
a university for two years
to complete their bachelor's
degree. This system is called
"two years at a community
college plus two years at
a university equals a bachelor
The community college
also offers two-year associate
degrees in many fields;
one and two year certificates
for shorter courses focusing
on career training as well
as short term non credit
Close to 100,000 international
students attend community
colleges, about 39% of all
international undergraduate
students in the United States.
Green River College
has been serving international
students since 1985 and
currently has over 1,000
students from over thirty-two
The curriculum at a community
college and a university
are the same. Both the community
college and the university
are accredited by the same
agency. However, the community
college costs less money,
classes are smaller and
you receive more attention
from your instructors and
It is easy to
from GRCC to a university.
Green River students are
admitted to top universities
all over the US, including
University of Washington, UC Berkeley, Indiana, Michigan
and hundreds of other excellent
schools. Six universities,
including University of
Oregon and San Francisco
State, also offer conditional
guaranteed admission to
GRCC international students.
You may
apply online or by mailing
or faxing your application.
You may start any quarter.
Fall quarter begins in September;
winter quarter begins in
January; spring quarter
begins in April; and summer
quarter begins in June.
Students must be 16 years
of age.
Upon acceptance to Green
River Community College
you will be sent an I-20.
You then need to bring the
I-20, your passport, and
a bank statement to a United
States Embassy to apply
for a student visa. It is
best to check the Web site
of the Embassy in your country
for up-to-date information.
No, you don't have to
take the TOFEL; you may
take our English Placement
Assessment when you arrive.
However, if you have a TOFEL
score of 173/500 you are
immediately eligible for
academic classes. In the
event you do not qualify
there is an English as a
Second Program available
to assist you in preparing
for the college program.
Auburn is a suburb of
Seattle, approximately 35
miles south of the city-center.
It is about 20 minutes from
Seattle-Tacoma International
Airport. Auburn has a population
of 45,000 and is located
on the Green River.
You can live on campus.
Campus Corner Apartments
is a wonderful place to
live and make friends with
Americans and others from
all over the world. You
may also choose to live
with a host family or in
a nearby apartment. Our
housing department will
work with you to find the
type of accommodations you
Green River Community
College serves a total
of 10,000 students of
1,000 are international students from over
40 countries.
There are both intramural
and varsity sports at the
college. In addition, there
is a full-time activities
coordinator for international
students. Trips, clubs,
sports, cultural activities
are arranged on a continual
basis for international
Yes and no. You can work
on campus at any time. There
are more students wanting
jobs than there are jobs;
however, so you have to
compete for them. There
are special circumstances
which allow you to work
off campus after attending
for a number of quarters.
Ask an advisor when you
get to the College.
Please let us know if
you have more questions
e-mailing us directly.
We will get right back to
you with the answers.


text:
Kubuntu Saucy Internet
Internet Applications
Internet applications enable you to make full use of your Internet connection. Web browsers, Email clients, Instant Messengers, and more are included in this category.
Web Browsers
Rekonq is the default web browser included with Kubuntu.
Konqueror was the prior default web browser included with Kubuntu.
Konqueror plug-ins
KGet (Download Manager) plug-in for Konqueror
KGet is a download manager for the Konqueror browser, but it can also work with Firefox as part of the FlashGot plugin.
sudo apt-get install kget
Mozilla Firefox
Mozilla Firefox is the ubiquitous web browser. Based on open source components, it is trademarked and cannot be altered or re-distributed with any change that involves the name or trademarks. Install the current version:
sudo apt-get install firefox
- A KDE-optimised version of Firefox is available from the Blue Systems (the current sponsor of Kubuntu) Launchpad repository. Follow the instructions found there to install:
sudo add-apt-repository ppa:blue-shell/firefox-kde sudo apt-get update sudo apt-get install firefox firefox-kde-support
Firefox Plug-ins
The Firefox web browser supports a wide variety of third-party add-ons, extensions, and plug-ins. They are referred to as "plug-ins" in this guide (the original term) but many are found and configured under the "extensions" or "add-ons" tabs in Firefox (once they are installed).
- Firefox -> Tools -> Add-ons -> Extensions (or Plug-ins)
Adblock Plus plug-in (block ads in a web page)
Adblock Plus blocks ads that appear in web pages. It is an important tool to limit tracking and undesirable website elements, as well. You can subscribe to a free filter service, and can add to the block list individual ads and website elements with a single click.
sudo apt-get install xul-ext-adblock-plus
- You can also add this extension from Firefox -> Tools -> Add-ons -> Get Add-ons -> Search All Add-ons -> AdBlock Plus. (This method will also ensure that automatic updates are installed by Firefox.)
- Recent versions of Adblock Plus allow the display of a large number of "partner" ads unless you disable this undesirable behavior:
- Firefox -> Tools -> Add-ons -> Adblock Plus -> Preferences -> Filter preferences... -> Allow some non-intrusive advertising (unticked)
Because Adblock Plus appears to now be creating holes in its own blocking service, it is probably worthwhile to stop automatic updates and only update Adblock Plus selectively (in case the developers in the future decide to create even more holes in the plug-in's blocking capability without the corresponding option to disable the behavior).
NoScript plug-in (controls scripts)
The NoScript plugin is considered one of the most important security measures for browsing the Internet. Most viruses and trojans gain access to computers from the Internet through scripts. This plugin allows you to choose which scripts to allow and blocks the rest.
- Add this extension from Firefox -> Tools -> Add-ons -> Get Add-ons -> Search All Add-ons -> NoScript. (This method will also ensure that automatic updates are installed by Firefox.)
- NoScript has a long of websites on its "whitelist." It is important to review this list and remove the websites for which you don't wish to automatically allow scripts (I remove them all).
- Firefox -> Tools -> Add-ons -> NoScript -> Preferences -> Whitelist
- A large number of websites use multiple locations/URLs to assemble their webpage content, a process which is blocked by NoScript's ABE (Application Boundaries Enforcer) function. I have found it necessary to disable ABE in order for most of my websites to function correctly.
- Firefox -> Tools -> Add-ons -> NoScript -> Preferences -> Advanced -> ABE -> Enable ABE (unticked)
- Many websites now use aggressive pop-ups to place advertising in front of the actual content. While NoScript can block these ads, there will be a "placeholder" still blocking the content unless you turn off the placeholders:
- Firefox -> Tools -> Add-ons -> NoScript -> Preferences -> Embeddings -> Show placeholder icon (unticked)
- Most websites use scripting extensively these days, so that you may need to "Allow" a website in NoScript. To block the individual undesirable elements of the website, use AdBlock Plus.
Bookmark Favicon Changer plug-in
In the newest versions of Firefox, there are some bugs regarding the Favicons (the small icons that appear in the address bar) and the Bookmark icons. This plug-in will restore the icons that get erased (leaving a blank dotted box) or allow you to choose your own Favicons / Bookmark icons.
- Add this extension from Firefox -> Tools -> Add-ons -> Get Add-ons -> Search All Add-ons -> Bookmark Favicon. (This method will also ensure that automatic updates are installed by Firefox.)
RefreshBlocker plug-in (prevents redirects)
RefreshBlocker allows the user to decide which websites (and pages) will be allowed to redirect (based on META tags within the webpage). Although Firefox (as of version 3.5) blocks all directs by default, the behavior is not customizable; it is therefore preferable to turn off the Firefox redirect control and use RefreshBlocker instead.
- Add this extension from Firefox -> Tools -> Add-ons -> Get Add-ons -> Search All Add-ons -> RefreshBlocker. (This method will also ensure that automatic updates are installed by Firefox.)
- Turn off the Firefox automatic redirect blocker:
- Firefox -> Enter about:config in the browser location bar -> right-click on "accessibility:blockautorefresh" -> Toggle to change the value from true to false
Video DownloadHelper plug-in for Firefox
The Video DownloadHelper plugin allows the download of videos (including Flash videos) from sites like YouTube.
- You can add this extension from Firefox -> Tools -> Add-ons -> Get Add-ons -> Search All Add-ons -> Video DownloadHelper. (This method will also ensure that automatic updates are installed by Firefox.)
Hide Tab Bar With One Tab plug-in
In Firefox v. 23 and later, the ability to hide tabs has been disabled. This plugin restores the ability to hide tabs if only one tab is open, restoring the function to hide tabs during normal browsing.
- You can add this extension from Firefox -> Tools -> Add-ons -> Get Add-ons -> Search All Add-ons -> Hide Tab Bar With One Tab. (This method will also ensure that automatic updates are installed by Firefox.)
User Agent Switcher plug-in for Firefox
The User Agent Switcher plugin allows a browser to masquerade as another browser, allowing browser-specific content to be displayed (most of the time). In the past there were a few old web apps that ran only on IE (and if one is encountered this plug-in may still be useful). Now that Firefox is the world's leading web browser, however, this plug-in should no longer be necessary for the average user.
- A user agent string also identifies your OS. Users of an uncommonly used (and easily identifiable) OS may wish to protect their privacy and not identify their OS correctly; for these users, User Agent Switcher is valuable for privacy reasons. Some users, for example, may wish to identify their very specialised OS as Debian or Ubuntu instead.
- You can add this extension from Firefox -> Tools -> Add-ons -> Get Add-ons -> Search All Add-ons -> User Agent Switcher. (This method will also ensure that automatic updates are installed by Firefox.)
- To use this add-on, the settings for Firefox must be changed prior to usage:
- Firefox -> about:config -> Search: useragent -> general.useragent.enable_overrides -> Toggle (so that the value is true) -> Restart Firefox
- A disadvantage of the User Agent Switcher is that it allows Firefox to revert to the default user agent string at each restart, so that it must be re-engaged each time. An alternate method to change the default Firefox user agent string is directly through the about:config settings (also see this blog post):
- Firefox -> about:config -> Search: useragent -> general.useragent.enable_overrides -> Toggle (so that the value is true) -> <right-click> -> New -> String -> Enter the preference name: general.useragent.override -> OK -> general.useragent.override: Mozilla/5.0 (X11; Kubuntu; Linux x86_64; rv:26.0) Gecko/20100101 Firefox/26.0 -> OK -> Restart Firefox
- The default user agent string for Kubuntu actually reflects Ubuntu as the OS (so that online OS usage statistics incorrectly count Kubuntu as Ubuntu). If you wish Kubuntu usage to be accurately counted, it is helpful to change your user agent string permanently.
Lightbeam (website crosslink visualization)
Lightbeam is a Firefox plug-in that is able to display the links on a website (to which you are connected) while browsing, giving you an indication of who can see your browsing habits at that moment.
- You can add this extension from Firefox -> Tools -> Add-ons -> Get Add-ons -> Search All Add-ons -> Lightbeam. (This method will also ensure that automatic updates are installed by Firefox.)
Privacy Badger (tracking management)
Privacy Badger is a Firefox plug-in sponsored by the Electronic Frontier Foundation. Currently in alpha stage, it blocks many tracking mechanisms more stringently than the native Firefox mechanisms. Install the .xpi add-on from the website.
Unplug Download Management
The UnPlug add-on lets you save video and audio which is embedded on a webpage.
- You can add this extension from Firefox -> Tools -> Add-ons -> Get Add-ons -> Browse All Add-ons. (This method will also ensure that automatic updates are installed by Firefox.)
Lucifox (eBook reader extension)
Lucifox (Lucidor for Firefox) enables e-books to be read and e-book catalogs to be browsed in a Firefox window.
- To install, go to the website and click "Download Now."
Adobe Acrobat Reader for Firefox Plug-in
- Read Add Extra Kubuntu Repositories and enable the Saucy partner repository:
deb http://archive.canonical.com/ubuntu Saucy partner
- then install Adobe Reader:
sudo apt-get install acroread
Adobe Flash Player for Firefox Plug-in
To install the official Adobe Flash plugin (Flash 10) for Firefox:
sudo apt-get install adobe-flashplugin
Gnash Plug-in (Open source Flash Player replacement)
Gnash is available in a 64-bit version as well as a 32-bit version. It is the open source replacement for Adobe Flashplayer.
sudo apt-get install gnash
After installing, change your web browser's Preferences -> Applications so that SWF and SPL files use Gnash.
Java Runtime Environment (JRE) for Firefox plug-in
- The IcedTea Plugin allows browsers to execute Java applets. The default icedtea-plugin package points to the icedtea-6-plugin package. Install:
sudo apt-get install icedtea-plugin
- Alternatively, install the IcedTea Plugin for version 7:
sudo apt-get install icedtea-7-plugin
- This package may need to be installed to run Java in Firefox, even if the Java Runtime Environment (JRE) is installed using kubuntu-restricted-extras, when installing OpenOffice, or installing the Java enviroment manually.
sudo apt-get install default-jre icedtea-plugin
Note: You must accept the license to use this product.
Kaffeine Plug-in for Firefox
This package also installs the Kaffeine player.
sudo apt-get install kaffeine-mozilla
MPlayer plug-in for Firefox
Gecko-mediaplayer has replaced the Mplayer plugin. This package also installs gnome-mplayer.
sudo apt-get install gecko-mediaplayer
VLC plug-in for Firefox
This package also installs the VLC player.
sudo apt-get install mozilla-plugin-vlc
Helix player plug-in for Firefox
This package also installs the Helix player, which is the open source player that plays Real Player content in Linux.
sudo apt-get install mozilla-helix-player
Moonlight plugin for Firefox
Moonlight is part of the Novell Mono project that is an open source implementation of Silverlight (the Microsoft multimedia presentation platform). It is based on FFMpeg. It is made to work best with the Firefox 3 web browser, as a plugin (but also works with other Mozilla browsers). Version 2.3 is available as a plugin for Mozilla-based browsers:
sudo apt-get install moonlight-plugin-mozilla
- Source code for all versions is available here. See these instructions.
- Netflix under Moonlight
- Netflix streaming requires both the capabilities of Silverlight 2.0 and Digital Rights Management modules. Although the current version of Moonlight 2.0 will run most Silverlight content (including Netflix content), Netflix has not yet released Digital Rights Management modules for Linux. Please contact Netflix directly for further information or sign a petition.
- An HTML5 Netflix plugin (currently being developed by Google for the Chrome browser) may soon be available. Other alternatives are to run Netflix in Wine or to use the Netflix Android app in a virtual Android environment.
FireFTP for Firefox
FireFTP is a Firefox extension for FTP transfers.
Firefox Widgets
Turn off browser bar drop-down list in Firefox
This is the most frequently asked problem regarding Firefox. To turn off the location browser bar drop-down list (and therefore not show your browsing history):
- Firefox -> about:config (in the location browser bar) -> browser.urlbar.maxRichResults -> right-click -> Modify -> set value to 0
Turn off SSL certificate name in address bar
In newer versions of firefox, the validity of the SSL certificate associated with a website is displayed as a color-coded background to the Favicon (the small icon displayed in the address bar). However, Firefox currently also displays the name of the site issuing the SSL certificate, which can be annoying, since for most sites this is a duplicate of the domain name (which then gets displayed twice in the address bar). To turn off this behavior:
- Firefox -> about:config (in the location browser bar) -> browser.identity.ssl_domain_display -> right-click -> Modify -> set value to 0
View Firefox cache
In a new window/tab, enter about:cache in the Firefox address bar. You can view and save individual elements (from all open windows/tabs) in the cache from there.
- Due to trademark restrictions of Mozilla products, the Debian project has created versions of the (otherwise free) software that has been stripped of the non-free trademarks. See here and the Debian wiki for more information. To install them, use a package manager to add the Debian repository for your country ( e.g. deb http://ftp.us.debian.org/debian unstable main ) temporarily while installing the software. Then install the software package using the package manager or from the command line:
- IceWeasel replaces the Firefox web browser (sudo apt-get install -t iceweasel).
- IceDove replaces the Thunderbird email, newsreader, and calendaring client (sudo apt-get install -t icedove).
- IceOwl replaces the Sunbird standalone calendaring client (sudo apt-get install -t iceowl).
- After installation of the individual package, it is best to disable the Debian repository so it does not interfere with the (K)Ubuntu repositories.
- A user that is interested in the philosophy of free software that Iceweasel symbolises may wish to consider a full Debian OS installation (of which (K)Ubuntu is a fork) instead of (K)Ubuntu.
GNUzilla IceCat
The GNU project also maintains a version of Mozilla Firefox that is free of trademarks and branding, called GNUZilla IceCat. .deb packages for (K)Ubuntu can be downloaded and installed through the GNUzilla PPA repositories.
Opera is a proprietary browser and internet suite (currently free on PCs) also used in some mobile devices and gaming consoles. It includes email, an address book, IRC chat, integrated BitTorrent, and webfeeds. A limited number of plugins are also available. Download from the website and follow the instructions or install from the Opera repository:
echo "deb http://deb.opera.com/opera/ stable non-free" | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/opera.list wget -O - http://deb.opera.com/archive.key | sudo apt-key add - sudo apt-get install opera
Chromium is the open source browser on which Google Chrome is based. It does not include the undesirable user tracking mechanisms of Google Chrome or the Google logos (and is therefore recommended by many users instead of Chrome).
sudo apt-get install chromium-browser
Google Chrome
Google Chrome is Google's proprietary web browser. Based on the open-source Chromium browser, Google adds the Google name and logo, an auto-updater system called GoogleUpdate, RLZ (a user-tracking mechanism), and other Google add-ons. To use this instead of Chromium, download and install the .deb package here.
Download Managers
KGet is a versatile and user-friendly download manager.
MultiGet is a GTK-based free-standing download manager utility.
sudo apt-get install multiget
Usenet Clients
- Here is a sample list of free Usenet servers.
Pan is a Gnome-based Usenet reader and nzb binary downloader. Install:
sudo apt-get install pan
Kwooty is a Usenet reader and nzb binary downloader for KDE4. Installation instructions from source or PPA repositories are at the website.
Email Clients
KMail (Kontact Mail) is the default email client included with Kontact. Access it by going to
- K menu -> Office -> Kontact Personal Information Manager
- K menu -> Internet -> KMail
Kontact includes email, an address book, a calendar, reminders, pop-up notes, a link to the Akregator News/RSS reader, time-tracking, and more.
To change view mode or aggregation mode (grouping) of the message list pane, use the icons to the right of the search pane. (Configuration of this doesn't seem to be available from the settings menus.)
PGP and Kmail
PGP-encrypted messages can be emailed using Kmail. See this tutorial.
- Kmail -> Configure Kmail -> Security -> Crypto Backends
Mozilla Thunderbird is a licensed and trademarked free open-source email client that is compatible with Firefox. Thunderbird works with free Gmail and Yahoo Mail accounts (using Imap). Install:
sudo apt-get install thunderbird
Lightning calendar extension
Lightning is the calendar extension for Thunderbird (with functionality similar to the stand-alone application Sunbird). Install:
sudo apt-get install xul-ext-lightning
Enigmail is an add-on to Thunderbird that allows you to easily encrypt your email using OpenPGP, which is included in the kernel by default. It also allows you to create and manage the encryption keys. Install:
sudo apt-get install enigmail
- Also see these tips for instructions on setting up e-mail with PGP encryption.
Miniminize to System Tray
MinimizeToTray revived is a valuable plugin/add-on/extension, IMO. It allows Thunderbird to be minimized to the System Tray instead of to the Taskbar. This allows Thunderbird to run discreetly in the background, checking for new mail and calendar events (e.g. through the Lightning extension). The same plugin/add-on/extension also is available for Firefox. Install:
- Thunderbird -> Tools -> Add-ons -> Get Add-ons -> Browse all add-ons (takes you to an external webpage) -> search for add-ons: MinimizeToTray revived -> + Add to Thunderbird -> Install Now -> Restart Thunderbird
New Mail Icon for Thunderbird
New Mail Icon is an experimental tray add-on which notifies you of new mail. (Note: If you leave Thunderbird running minimized to the System Tray (with the MinimizeToTray add-on, for example), it has a built-in "new message" notifier already, so that this add-on would not be necessary in such a situation.) Download from the website. Install:
- Thunderbird -> Tools -> Add-ons -> Install -> select downloaded file
Evolution is the default Gnome-based email client used in Ubuntu. Installing it will also install many Gnome components.
sudo apt-get install evolution
FetchYahoo is a Perl script to fetch mail from a free Yahoo mail account and spool it locally so that an email client like Thunderbird can access it with POP3. For more info see the Ubuntu Community documentation. Install:
sudo apt-get install fetchyahoo
Akregator is the default news/RSS reader included with Kubuntu. Usage instructions are found in the Handbook.
RSSOwl is a Java-based RSS | RDF | Atom Newsfeed Reader.
Install java and in order to use the internal browser, install the packages xulrunner and firefox:
sudo apt-get install sun-java6-jre firefox xulrunner
Change to your "opt" directory:
cd /opt
Download the zip-archive into your opt directory:
sudo wget http://downloads.sourceforge.net/rssowl/rssowl-2.0.6.linux.zip
Extract the archive and remove the extracted file:
sudo unzip ./rssowl-2.0.6.linux.zip && sudo rm ./rssowl-2.0.6.linux.zip
Make a startscript:
sudo kate /usr/bin/runRSSOwl.sh
add the following lines to your startscript file /usr/bin/runRSSOwl.sh and save it afterwards.
#!/bin/bash cd /opt/rssowl ./RSSOwl
Make the startscript executable:
sudo chmod u+x /usr/bin/runRSSOwl.sh
To start RSSOwl:
Instant Messengers
Kopete is the default Instant Messenger application for KDE/Kubuntu. Webcam video and voice capability is incorporated. You can access multiple services with it. You can access it by:
- K Menu -> Applications -> Internet -> Kopete Instant Messenger.
Plugins for Kopete
Kopete includes a number of default plugins:
- Kopete -> Settings -> Configure -> Plugins
- A language Translator plugin that can be used with Google or BabelFish is available (but is no longer functional since the closure of both the Google Translate API and BabelFish in 2012).
- An encryption plugin (using Off-The-Record encryption) is available.
- OpenPGP for Kopete is also available by installing the package kopete-cryptography:
sudo apt-get install kopete-cryptography
Kopete Styles
Additional styles for Kopete are available from KDE-look. Install from:
- Kopete -> Settings -> Configure -> Chat Window -> Style -> Get New...
GoogleTalk on Kopete
Kopete can be configured to work with GoogleTalk Instant Messaging (but not VOIP) using the Jabber protocol. See these GoogleTalk instructions.
Facebook Chat on Kopete
- See this Kubuntu forums thread for info on setting up Kopete with Facebook chat.
Konversation (IRC client)
Konversation is no longer the default Internet Relay Chat (IRC) client in Kubuntu, but is highly recommended nevertheless. It functions similar to the venerable mIRC. Make sure you have ports 6667-6670 open in your firewall to use IRC (and ports 1024-1028 open to use DCC). "A little less action and a little more Konversation." -- Elvis. Install:
sudo apt-get install konversation
- K menu -> Internet -> Konversation
- Konversation can be used directly with a proxy. For example, if you are using a Socks5 proxy on port 9050:
- Konversation -> Settings -> Configure Konversation... -> Behavior: Connection -> Proxy (ticked) -> Type: Socks v5 -> Address: 127.0.0.1 (or localhost) -> Port: 9050
Quassel (IRC client)
Quassel is a cross-platform IRC client currently that is included as the default Kubuntu/KDE client. Based on the Qt platform, there is no DCC implementation (which makes this client limited in usefulness). Try Konversation for more features.
- Quassel can be used directly with a proxy on a per-server basis. For example, if you are using a Socks5 proxy on port 9050:
- Quassel -> File -> Networks -> Configure Networks... -> Servers: irc.ubuntu.com:8001 -> Edit -> Advanced -> Use a Proxy (ticked) -> Proxy Type: Socks 5 -> Proxy Host: 127.0.0.1 (or localhost) -> Port: 9050
XChat (IRC client)
XChat is a cross-platform IRC client that allows DCC downloads and scripts. Install:
sudo apt-get install xchat
- or a Gnome-integrated version:
sudo apt-get install xchat-gnome
Pidgin is an open source IM application. It is the default in the Ubuntu (Gnome) desktop, but will work in Kubuntu (KDE). You can access multiple services with it.
sudo apt-get install pidgin
aMSN is an MSN Messenger utility that functions like the original client. Unlike Kopete, it is not made for the KDE desktop (but can be installed nevertheless). Install it:
sudo apt-get install amsn
To enable Drag-and-Drop capabilities to aMSN for easy file transfer see Ubuntu Geek.
Emesene is an MSN messenger client that uses a simplified interface similar to the original client. Unlike Kopete, it is not made for the KDE desktop (but can be installed nevertheless). Install it:
sudo apt-get install emesene
Kmess is an MSN messenger client for KDE that is an alternative to Kopete (for MSN users).
sudo apt-get install kmess
KDEuBlog (Microblogging)
KDEuBlog is a desktop widget used for microblogging client on sites like Twitter and Identi.ca (StatusNet). Older versions do not have OAuth incorporated. Use Choqok instead. Install:
Widget icon (upper right corner of desktop) -> Add widgets ... -> Microblogging
Choqok (Microblogging)
Choqok is a utility used for microblogging on sites like Twitter and Identi.ca (StatusNet). It has incorporated the OAuth mechanism and allows the use of proxies. Install:
sudo apt-get install choqok
- Notifications (popups/sounds) for incoming messages can be set:
- K Menu -> System -> System Settings -> Notifications -> Event Source: Choqok -> New Post Arrived -> Play a sound (ticked)
- When Twitter switched off API 1.0 on 11 June 2013, the tweets went dark for Choqok users as the application had not been updated in time to support API 1.1. This was due to the original developer not having time to maintain Choqok himself. On appeal to the Linux community, another developer stepped in and developed Choqok > 1.3.1 (which supports the API 1.1).
- For users of Kubuntu Precise Pangolin 12.04 or later (> KDE 4.10), the updated program (or patch) is available at Launchpad. Download and run the version for your OS (32-bit i386 or 64-bit amd64).
FTP Clients
Although Konqueror can use FTP via kioslaves, you might wish to use a dedicated FTP client. Also see these FTP tips.
FileZilla is the ubiquitous free open-source FTP client and server for all platforms.
sudo apt-get install filezilla
Filesharing / P2P
Do not share copyrighted material or content that is otherwise illegal to share.
KTorrent is the default BitTorrent client in Kubuntu. Also see the KTorrent wiki or these additional tips.
- K menu -> Internet -> KTorrent
Be sure to have your firewall ports open (by default 6881 and 4444).
- It is possible to use proxies with KTorrent. For example, if you have a tracker proxy at 127.0.0.1:8118 and a socks proxy at 127.0.0.1:9050, then set KTorrent to use these proxies:
- KTorrent -> Settings -> Configure KTorrent... -> Proxy
- -> HTTP:Proxy: 127.0.0.1 -> Port: 8118
- -> SOCKS: Use a SOCKS proxy server: (ticked) -> Server: 127.0.0.1 -> Port: 9050 -> Version 5 (assuming you are using socks5)
- It is important to note that although SOCKS5 proxies can handle UDP traffic, KTorrent passes UDP packets outside of the SOCKS proxy server. If you desire IP address privacy, do not use UDP-based trackers with KTorrent.
- It is possible to use encryption with KTorrent:
- KTorrent -> Settings -> Configure KTorrent... -> BitTorrent -> Encryption -> Use protocol encryption
In an era of increasing censorship, spying, and surveillance using Deep Packet Inspection, encryption has become an essential componenet of data transfer.
- It is possible to use PeerGuardian 2 with KTorrent using the IPFilter plugin:
- KTorrent -> Plugins -> IP Filter (ticked) -> Settings -> Configure KTorrent... -> IP Filter -> Use PeerGuardian filter (ticked) -> Download/Convert
This service attempts to monitor and filter IP addresses known for censorship, spying, or provision of false or malicious data to this type of Internet service.
- Some older routers only allow 20 simultaneous connections or they will continually freeze (as their connection-table cache becomes full). If this occurs, decrease the maximum number of connections to 20:
- KTorrent -> Settings -> Configure KTorrent... -> Network -> Advanced: Maximum number of connection setups: 20
Set Firefox to use KTorrent for magnet links
Firefox is very ticklish about this setting, so follow the instructions very carefully.
- Open a window which has a magnet link on it. Click on the magnet link, and the error "Firefox doesn't know how to open this address, because the protocol (magnet) isn't associated with any program" usually appears.
- Open a new tab (NOT a new window) and edit the configuration settings by typing about:config in the address bar of the newly-opened tab. Then add the network.protocol-handler.expose.magnet setting and set it to false:
- Firefox -> about:config -> Search: network.protocol-handler.expose -> <Right-click> on the main window
- -> New -> Boolean -> Enter the preference name: network.protocol-handler.expose.magnet -> Ok
- -> False -> Ok
- DO NOT CLOSE the about:config tab until this step is complete! While the about:config tab remains open, go to the tab with your magnet link available. Click on the magnet link. A dialog box should appear to choose the application.
- Firefox -> Launch Application: Choose an Application: Choose... -> File system: /usr/bin/ktorrent
- -> Remember my choice for magnet links (ticked) -> Ok
- Now whenever you click on a magnet link in Firefox, it should be added automatically to KTorrent and will be found in the KTorrent -> Magnet section. If a different downloading program is later desired for use with magnets, the setting in Firefox can subsequently be changed:
- Firefox -> Preferences -> Applications -> magnet -> (dropdown box)
- Note: Magnet links will not work with KTorrent versions prior to 4.3 (and libktorrent 1.3). Download and install the current KTorrent / libktorrent versions from source code according to instructions here or install the Debian (.deb) packages found here.
Azureus is a Java-based BitTorrent client.
sudo apt-get install azureus
QBitTorrent is a PyQT-based BitTorrent Client that is based on the uTorrent model.
sudo apt-get install qBittorrent
Transmission (BitTorrent Client)
Transmission is the GTK-based default BitTorrent client in Ubuntu (Gnome). KTorrent can be used in Kubuntu.
sudo apt-get install transmission
Deluge is a GTK-based BitTorrent client, with plugins and a server package / daemon available. Install the client:
sudo apt-get install deluge-torrent
or the GTK-based interface:
sudo apt-get install deluge-gtk
- The server daemon and web interface (for server functions) can be installed:
sudo apt-get install deluged deluge-web
Bittornado (BitTorrent Client)
BitTornado is a KDE-compatible BitTorrent client. Install:
sudo apt-get bittornado bittornado-gui
Torrentflux (P2P client and server)
TorrentFlux is a PHP based BitTorrent controller that runs on a web server (using a MySQL database with the mysql-server package for server functions or the mysql-client for client functions) and uses a web interface that can be accessed remotely (e.g. http://localhost/torrentflux). This makes it ideal for seedbox purposes. It uses the BitTornado client for downloads. Install:
sudo apt-get install torrentflux
Apollon (P2P Filesharing)
Apollon is an older (now relatively obsolete) BitTorrent client that uses the Gift network (Gnutella, etc.). It uses plugins for compatibility with multiple networks. Obtain the packages from the Debian Etch archives for apollon and gift.
KMLDonkey (P2P eMule/eDonkey2000 Client)
KMLDonkey is a KDE frontend for MLDonkey, the P2P file sharing program (and network) that is able to use different network protocols.
sudo apt-get install kmldonkey mldonkey-server
Opentracker (Torrent tracker)
Opentracker is the most widely used torrent tracker software. It can be used within a private organisation or as a public service to track freely-available torrents. Download (through CVS) and installation instructions are at the website.
Videoconferencing and VOIP
Videoconferencing and voice over Internet (VOIP) applications are merging into integrated applications. Most of these applications now allow placing calls to non-Internet based telephones for a small fee.
Formerly known as Gnomemeeting, Ekiga is a SIP compliant fully functional open source integrated VOIP and videoconferencing program.
sudo apt-get install ekiga
Skype is a proprietary integrated VOIP and video conferencing program similar to Ekiga. Also see instructions on how to record Skype conversations.
- Install pre-requisites:
sudo apt-get install libqt4-dbus libqt4-network libqt4-xml
- To get the most recent version, download and install the 32-bit version:
wget -O skype-ubuntu-current_i386.deb http://www.skype.com/go/getskype-linux-beta-ubuntu-32 sudo dpkg -i skype-ubuntu-current_i386.deb sudo rm skype-ubuntu-current_i386.deb
- or
wget -O skype-ubuntu-current_i386.deb http://download.skype.com/linux/skype-ubuntu-precise_184.108.40.206-1_i386.deb sudo dpkg -i skype-ubuntu-current_i386.deb sudo rm skype-ubuntu-current_i386.deb
- In the past. some users have noted that they cannot get their microphone inputs to work with any version later than 22.214.171.124. They installed:
wget -O skype-ubuntu-current_i386.deb http://download.skype.com/linux/skype-debian_126.96.36.199-1_i386.deb sudo dpkg -i skype-ubuntu-current_i386.deb sudo rm skype-ubuntu-current_i386.deb
- or
wget -O skype-ubuntu-current_amd64.deb http://download.skype.com/linux/skype-ubuntu-intrepid_184.108.40.206-1_amd64.deb sudo dpkg -i skype-ubuntu-current_amd64.deb sudo rm skype-ubuntu-current_amd64.deb
How to install Skype on a 64-bit system
The current version of Skype for 64-bit systems is a masqueraded 32-bit module. To use on a 64-bit system you might still need to install the needed packages:
sudo apt-get install ia32-libs lib32asound2 libqt4-core libqt4-gui
- Then download and install the current Skype .deb package from the Skype website:
wget -O skype_ubuntu-current_amd64.deb http://www.skype.com/go/getskype-linux-beta-ubuntu-64 sudo dpkg -i skype-ubuntu-current_amd64.deb sudo rm skype-ubuntu-current_amd64.deb
- If the 64-bit version doesn't work for you, use the 32-bit version (or see above for the most recent version):
wget -O skype-ubuntu-current_i386.deb http://www.skype.com/go/getskype-linux-beta-ubuntu-32 sudo dpkg -i --force-architecture skype-ubuntu-current_i386.deb sudo rm skype-ubuntu-current_i386.deb
Installing Skype repository
It is possible to install Skype by adding the repository and installing from there. This has an advantage of maintaining updates automatically.
- Install the respository security key. (This requires an open port 11371 in your firewall for the keyserver.)
sudo apt-key adv --keyserver pgp.mit.edu --recv-keys 0xd66b746e
- Add the Skype repository, update, and install Skype:
echo "deb http://download.skype.com/linux/repos/debian/ stable non-free" | sudo tee -a /etc/apt/sources.list > /dev/null sudo apt-get update sudo apt-get install skype
Wengophone is an integrated VOIP and videoconferencing client available on many platforms. Wengophone was initially an open-source GPL-licensed package ('Wengophone Classic'). Both the Classic version (available as a .deb file) and the current proprietary binary version are available from the website. Wengophone Classic has now been rebranded as QuteCom, however. To install the current version as an Ubuntu/Kubuntu package, see these instructions.
- Download and install the older Wengophone Classic version (.deb package):
wget http://download.wengo.com/wengophone/rc/wengophone-0.958m-1.i386.deb dpkg -i --force-architecture wengophone-0.958m-1.i386.deb
Gizmo5 is an Internet soft-phone application, similar to Skype, that uses the SIP protocol. Install (.deb package):
wget http://download.gizmo5.com/GizmoDownload/gizmo-project_126.96.36.199_libstdc++6_i386.deb dpkg -i --force-architecture gizmo-project_126.96.36.199_libstdc++6_i386.deb
Asterisk VOIP PBX system
Asterisk is an enterprise-grade, free open source PBX and telephony system for VOIP.
sudo apt-get install asterisk
Kiax is an LGPL-licensed open source IAX (Inter-Asterisk eXchange) application. It is used for making VoIP calls from an Asterisk PBX. The current version must be installed from source files. See the website for download and installation instructions, or see this Ubuntu Launchpad site.
OpenSIPS / OpenSER (SIP server)
OpenSIPS is an open-source SIP server that allows connections to be made through the Internet for VoIP, IM, and other communications protocols. While there are many public SIP servers, these are subject to spoofing and other "impersonation" problems. A company may wish to host its own SIP server to avoid the problems inherent in public services whose trustworthiness can not be determined. OpenSIPS is the successor to OpenSER (which is the version in the repositories). Install OpenSER 1.3.2 from the repositories:
sudo apt-get install openser
Alternately, the newest version of OpenSIPS can be downloaded as a .deb package from the website and installed. Installation and usage instructions are on the website.
Telepathy is a flexible, modular communications framework that enables real-time VOIP/chat communication via pluggable protocol backends (for protocols such as Jabber/XMPP/Google Talk/Jingle, link-local XMPP, SIP, MSN, Yahoo/AIM and IRC). Telepathy is a communications service that can be simultaneously accessed by many client applications (primarily Empathy), using QT4, Glib, and GtK libraries.
- A version for the Gnome desktop (telepathy-gnome) is available. Install:
sudo apt-get install telepathy-gnome
- A version for the KDE desktop (kde-telepathy) is available. For ongoing support see the KDE forums. Install:
sudo apt-get install kde-telepathy
Web meetings
Web meeting software allows video conferencing among many clients, with one server as host.
BigBlueButton is a free open source chat/video/audio and desktop sharing platform similar to GoToMeeting, WebEx, DimDim and similar products. Developed by GoogleCode, it utilises all open-source modules. A Moodle plugin is also available. See these installation instructions and these additional detailed instructions.
WebHuddle is a free, open source Java-based browser client (and server) for web meetings. To install the server, first install pre-requisites, including Java, JBOSS Application Server, and xvfb.
sudo apt-get sun-java6-jre jbossas4 xvfb
For more details on setting this up in (K)Ubuntu, see this.
TeamViewer is a proprietary cross-platform package that enables up to 25 participants to share a desktop for online meetings and provides a mechanism for users to control a PC's desktop remotely. Presentations can be viewed through most Internet web browsers, as well. A free .deb package can be downloaded here.


text:
The baseball business is nothing new to Indians young prospect outfielder Michael Brantley.
The 6-foot-2, 200-pound Brantley, son of former major leaguer Mickey Brantley, grew up around the game and understands its quirky nuances.To read more or comment...
Former Tribe outfielder Kenny Lofton enjoyed taking a quick ride down memory lane in sharing his thoughts on various moments and subjects regarding his career in Cleveland after being named a 2010 inductee into the Indians Hall of Fame. For your enjoyment below is an edited version of the teleconference.
* Why do you think fans never forgot you and always welcomed you back?
"I just treated the fans with respect and they did the same for me - it was a mutual thing. "I signed autographs every single day and it's something I enjoyed doing. The fans loved it, I loved it and I just had a good time doing it."
* What was your biggest moment in Cleveland?:
"When we beat Seattle to go the World Series."
* Do you often wonder how for as many good Indians teams you were on how none of them won a World Series?
"Man, yeah, I know. It was just one of those things. I think we had the team and the players to go out there and do it. It was just fate, it just wasn't our time."
* Now that you've now made the Hall of Fame in Cleveland, do you ever think of possibility of making it to Cooperstown?
"It's hard for me to say. I just went out there and did what I had to do on and off the field. Hopefully, that can show people. Now it's up to whoever (to decide)."
* You put up good numbers despite playing in the so called "Steroid Era". Do you think maybe down the road people will pay closer attention to what you were able to do?
"I hope they do because again, I was a guy who never did it, never tried to do it or wanted to do it. But I played against guys who obviously were doing it, so my competition level had to be at a certain level to compete with those guys who were what you call, cheating. So, I was not a cheater, so hopefully they took a look at that and take it into account."
* How many times did you want to scream knowing some of these guys were doing it, but you were trying to do it the right way?
"Constantly. But I did it the right way and always felt like the good guys always lose. I always felt that way in that situation, so I just sat back and kept doing what I was doing. You always say, things are going to come out in the light sooner or later - and that's what happened."
* What are you up to these days?
"I have a production company out in L.A. trying to do some TV and film. We're looking for some investors to do some of the movies I have going on right now."
* Do you remember the amazing catch you made that robbed Baltimore's B.J. Surhoff of a home run at Jacobs Field Aug. 4, 1996?
"Like it was yesterday. It was one of my most famous and memorable catches. The funniest part was looking at the guys in the bullpen when I reached over the b ullpen and caught the ball. I looked down at those guys and they were going crazy. I'll never forget it."
* Talk about Game Six of the ALCS in 1995 in Seattle when you scored from second base (on a passed ball) and how big that play turned out to be.
"I didn't know how big it was going to turn out. It was just me being aggressive on the basepaths when I saw the opportunity to use my speed. I looked at Randy Johnson and he had his back turned and everyone was kind of lolly gagging towards the ball so I just kept going."
*Who were some of the guys you looked up to coming up through the big leagues?
"One guy that really stood out was Kirby Puckett. Just the excitement he had and the way he always had a good time playing, although he played the game hard."
Here is the press release:
CLEVELAND, OH – The Cleveland Indians today announced the club has signed CA MIKE REDMOND to free agent Major League contract.To read more or comment...
The Cleveland Indians invited seven minor league players Major league Camp, including its first round draft picks in each of the last three years.
Here is the press release:To read more or comment...
The Indians signed veteran second baseman Mark Grudzielanek to a minor-league contract Tuesday that includes an invitation to spring training.
Grudzielanek, 39, has a career major-league batting average of .290 with five teams during 14 seasons, through 2008. He did not play in the big leagues last year, apparently because he was unable to find a suitable deal.
Grudzielanek signed with the Minnesota Twins during the season but never appeared in a game for them. He played 11 games in the Twins' minor-league system, playing for the Double-A Rock Cats when they visited the Akron Aeros late in the season.
The Indians made a minor-league deal Saturday, trading left-hander Zach Jackson to the Blue Jays for a player to be named. ¶
Jackson spent most of last year at Triple-A, posting a 4-8 record and 6.05 earned-run average in 30 appearances at Columbus, including 14 starts. He also pitched three times for the Tribe, once as a starter, posting no record and a 9.35 ERA in 82/3 innings. ¶
Cleveland acquired Jackson in July of 2008 from Milwaukee along with Matt LaPorta and Michael Brantley in the deal that sent C.C. Sabathia to the Brewers. Jackson has been assigned to Triple-A Las Vegas by Toronto. ¶
In addition to Duncan, the Tribe also signed a more notable free agent in former Reds and Nationals slugger Austin Kearns. See Indians press release below:
The Cleveland Indians today announced the club has signed OF AUSTIN KEARNS to a free agent minor league contract. The contract includes a non-roster invitation to Major League spring training camp.To read more or comment...
The Indians added a free agent to the mix Tuesday in former longtime New York Yankee minor leaguer Shelly Duncan. Here's the press release:
The Cleveland Indians today announced the club has signed INF/OF SHELLEY DUNCAN to a free agent minor league contract. The contract includes a non-roster invitation to Major League spring training camp.To read more or comment...


text:
Virginia Man Wins $500K in Lottery ... for 3rd Time
(NEWSER) – Melvyn Wilson won $500,000 in the Virginia lottery in 2004, so it was a surprise when he won $25,000 five months later. Six months after that, he scratched off a card to win $1 million. He retired shortly afterward, but the money keeps coming in for the 72-year-old former postal worker: Wilson has now won another $500,000. This was from Virginia's $20-a-ticket "Millionaire Mania," theWashington Post reports.


text:
This is the USB flash drive that wirelessly streams movies, music, photographs, and documents to an iPad. The size of a pack of gum, it accepts an included 8 GB SD card (supports up to 32 GB SD cards) automatically sharing files wirelessly up to 150' away, eliminating an iPad's need to dock with a computer or use e-mail to transfer files. Providing over five hours of stand-alone operation, it recharges via USB from any computer without the need for software, which also provides a convenient means of file loading and continuous file sharing. Up to six wireless devices can access the flash drive simultaneously using a free downloaded app, including iPhones, Android, and Windows smartphones. A digital camera's SD card can be inserted; holiday pictures and videos taken at family gatherings can be immediately accessed by family members. With built-in data encryption, it provides secure transfers between similarly configured devices. 3 1/2" L x 2" W x 1/2" D. (1 1/2 oz.)
Lifetime Guarantee
The Wireless iPad USB Flash Drive comes with The Hammacher Schlemmer Lifetime Guarantee. If this product ever disappoints you, for any reason, you may return your Hammacher Schlemmer purchase for exchange, credit, or refund.
Should you have any questions, we are available seven days a week (8:00 am – midnight EST). Please call 1-800-321-1484 to speak with a specialist or email us at email@example.com to receive a response within three business hours or less.
Shipping charges noted in parentheses apply in addition to our standard shipping & service.
We're sorry, but gift wrap is not available. Please call 1-800-395-7006 for Premium or Express delivery rates.
Oversized items scheduled for expedited delivery (Premium or Express) may incur additional shipping and services charges because of their unusual size. Please call 1-800-321-1484 for an estimate of S&S charges. International callers, please call 1-513-860-3397.
We're sorry, but gift wrap is not available for oversized items.
Shipped via truck and may require customer assistance upon delivery. You will be contacted to make an appointment for delivery.
We're sorry, but gift wrap and gift cards are not available.
GST still applies and will be charged upon processing. For complete shipping & service charges please call Customer Service at 1-800-321-1484.
May we recommend:
(based on 9 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
5 Stars
4 Stars
3 Stars
2 Stars
1 Stars
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Best Uses
Reviewed by 9 customers
Displaying reviews 1-9
Back to top
(5 of 5 customers found this review helpful)
Great Product
By Utah Golfer
from Provo,UT
Need to charge unit and install a card before use before your computer will recognize it. Easy drag and drop from your folders to the unit.Have to go settings each time to hook via wi-fi first.
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Was this review helpful? Yes / No
- flag this review
Timesaving Little Helper
By TXDiva
from Houston, TX
The easiest way to send files to devices and others. I love, love, love this USB drive. Tried streaming movies whilst travelling and was totally suprised with the "lack" of pausing. Would like to have multiple devices or higher capacity for multiple movies.
I-Pad flashdrive
By Tamah
from Homosassa, FL
I find this flashdrive easy to use and very handy to have whenever I use my I-Pad.
(4 of 6 customers found this review helpful)
Awesome product so far
By Mark
from Vancouver
Since apple doesn't have a camera connection kit yet for an iphone or ipod, this is a great alternative.
(3 of 3 customers found this review helpful)
Easy to use, Just Fabulous!
By sospeedy
from Fresno, CA
It is great for showing photos from my camera SD card on my iPad to co-workers, when I want several people to see the same thing. It also was great for watching downloaded movies at camp, high in the Sierra Nevada.
Ipad USB Flash Drive
By Ipadborg
from Canada
Only one I have been able to find.
(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)
By DrD
from Modesto, CA
The only issue not resolved is how to get the information back to the flash drive after making corrections on my iPad. Emailing the file, etc., back to my email address and then saving on the pc is extra labor. If you know how to transfer the changed file from the iPad back to the USB device, that would be quite helpful.
(2 of 7 customers found this review helpful)
Terrible product
By Larry
The product can not be consitently recognized by a PC via a USB Port.
Bottom Line No, I would not recommend this to a friend
Hammacher Schlemmer Response: While this has received positive feedback from other customers, it clearly did not meet your needs and for that we sincerely apologize. The included manual indicates the specific USB, wireless connection and memory card specifications. This product is optimized for iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch and using the most up to date iOS is recommended for best compatibility. It is our goal that you are fully satisfied with every item purchased from Hammacher Schlemmer. That is why we a lifetime guarantee of satisfaction. Our customer service team is available 24 hours a day at 1-800-321-1484 to assist you with returning it.
Works as Advertized, but.......
By Norm Michaels
from Woodland Park, Colorado
To use this WiFi USB Flash Drive, you'll need to disconnect from your Internet connected WiFi first. You cannot have the Internet and this flash drive at the same time.
COPYRIGHT © 2017 HAMMACHER SCHLEMMER & COMPANY, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. W106147 E. 57th ST • NEW YORK, NY • 10022 • 1-800-_321-1484


text:
U2 to perform nominated song at Oscars
U2 is joining the list of Oscar performers. The band will take the stage at the upcoming Academy Awards ceremony to sing "Ordinary Love," their contribution to the movie Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom.
The event will also mark the group's first live performance of the track, which is in the running for Best Original Song. The category also includes Pharrell Williams' "Happy" from the movie Despicable Me 2, and Idina Menzel's "Let It Go" from the animated hit Frozen. They're both confirmed to perform at the event as well. Karen O's "The Moon Song" from Her rounds out the list of nominees.
The 86th Academy Awards will be presented in a ceremony at the Dolby Theater in Hollywood. Ellen DeGeneres is slated to host the event, which will air live on ABC on March 2nd.
Photo Credit Getty Images


text:
Obama Plans To Put 30,000 Illegal Immigrants Into American Classrooms
American kids and teenagers will be sharing their already-crowded classrooms with tens of thousands of ill-educated Central American migrants this fall, because President Obama is distributing perhaps 100,000 Central American migrants across the country.
The Central American students "have very, very limited amounts of education [and] in some cases, they cannot count to 10," said Caroline Woodason, assistant director for student support at the public schools in Dalton, Ga. "They can't turn on a computer. They've never even seen a computer," she told the Dalton Daily Citizen.
In Fairfax, Va., "teachers [are] dealing with children not just learning English but years below expected grade/achievement level," education specialist Robin Hamby, told The Washington Post. In early 2014, her district already had 5,192 Central American students, up 22 percent since 2011.
In Lynn, Mass., the foreign youths "are not literate in any language," said Catherine Latham, the superintendent of schools. "The school system is overwhelmed, our health department is overwhelmed," she told Fox News in Boston.
"There's no way a [foreign] child is going to be able to come to school ready and able to learn if we don't address some of the other issues they're facing," such as an upbringing in a violent culture, Debra Duardo, executive director for human services for the huge Los Angeles Unified School District, told the Chicago Tribune.