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When the idea for this editorial was still in conception, I didn't realize just how many people don't use standard analog public television anymore. Apparently some 34.5 million total households residing in the USA, whether using analog television exclusively or as a secondary, 8-inch screen for munching in front of in the kitchen, "are at risk of losing their signals." That's over 27% of households, though not all households in the US actually have a television set. I suppose that's a big enough chunk of the market for broadcasting companies to worry about still pumping commercials into, so now these 34.5 million households get to pay a reasonable price (with a coupon, of course) for a hunk of hardware to add to the heaping collection atop the entertainment center.
What's going to happen to this freed-up 700MHz spectrum when the time comes for the switch? All of that wireless bandwidth has been looking delicious to several markets for some time now, and though opinions vary, it is possible that the companies who purchased chunks of the spectrum will establish widespread wireless Internet networks across the US. AT&T and Verizon, two of the biggest owners of areas in the spectrum, will most likely use their spectrum chunks as networks for 4G cell phones with high data throughput, but that isn't to say that widespread wireless Internet isn't out of the question, especially since there are those who have already been providing this service for some time. AT&T and Verizon had to agree to open-access rules, meaning that other providers could piggyback on their 700MHz networks, such as Google's Android-based phones. However, the interpretation of these rules can be vague, so it's still unclear just how open it's going to be. Other uses for the 700MHz leftovers include a nation-wide emergency communications network.
So there's actually something you deem worthy of wasting your time watching on the tube, and you don't want to lose that. What can you possibly do to keep up this tradition? One, buy a converter for your television. They generally run about $50-$90, and you can get up to two coupons from the government to knock $40 off of the price of each converter. See a list of some of these converters as well as their ratings at Consumer Reports. Two, use it as an excuse to go out and buy a new, flat-panel television pre-equipped with a DTV tuner inside. All televisions sold after March 1st, 2007, have to be digital televisions or else "must prominently display on or near the analog-only device a Consumer Alert label" with a warning stating that the television is an analog-only device.
The lovely thing about this digital transition is that instead of maybe a dozen or so local channels filled to the brim with sick soaps, disgruntling game shows, and, of course, apathetic advertising, you get up to four times as many channels with the same type of programming, but this time in high-quality digital format. Each broadcasting station now can have several programs running at once, though it's likely that not all stations will choose to utilize this feature known as "multicasting." You can already access many digital channels by using your digital converter or the digital tuner on your newer television. Go ahead, try it. Most stations are already broadcasting on at least one of the several multicasting channels. A fair warning if you decide to make the switch early: after the official switching day, some stations' channels might change, so you'll have to rescan once more after that point in time.
A common misconception about all of this kerfuffle is that those subscribing to cable have to pay the cable company extra money to get a converter for their cable channels. This is utter nonsense, not to mention cheap and dishonest. Some cable companies are "switching major channels from the basic cable package to a premium tier." Since this "premium tier," as it were, is usually only in digital format, the consumer is forced to purchase a converter box from the company if the consumer wishes to keep on watching those channels. When the consumer complains, the company tells him/her that it's due to the government's digital TV transition. That is a flat-out lie. The new laws only govern over-the-air television; cable companies may keep their analog services if they wish to. While cable companies are claiming that the timing of their switch and the government's switch is completely coincidental, there have been many cases filed against them. In retrospect, "the National Cable & Telecommunications Association, which represents the major cable firms, has written to congress to say it will offer free digital cable boxes to existing analog customers until June." Also, they have "agreed to cut down the number of channels moving to digital between January and February next year to minimize confusion." Sure. You bet it was coincidence.
I don't know about you, but all of this digital switching is making me dizzy. Of course, if you're currently getting your TV over-the-air, you could scrap the TV idea and just get my couch-potatoing entertainment from the Internet or get a Netflix account and watch DVDs or Bu-Rays. Saves you from the commercials, to be sure, and then you don't have to buy a digital converter. On a side note, the one we purchased looks fine enough after installation, but once you neglect it for a little while, its once friendly blue eye turns red and demonic. A converter possessed by the Devil is not my idea of fun. I may be forced to put a dagger through its processing unit before the year is out (does it have one?).


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SOURCE: Citadel EFT
January 24, 2013 12:35 ET
OCEANSIDE, CA--(Marketwire - Jan 24, 2013) - Citadel EFT, Inc's. (OTCQB: CDFT) CEO Gary DeRoos is pleased to announce that Citadel EFT has agreed to an assignment of a contract of purchase & sale of villa 613, in the Casa Linda development, in Cabarete, Dominican Republic. The villa was the last property for sale in phase 6 in the development, which currently boasts up to a 95% occupancy rate and weekly incomes of $2500 on its 4 bedroom villas. This property is completely built, ready to rent upon completion, and is approximately 10,000 square feet, with 5 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms. This property represents an attractive rental opportunity to Citadel and its shareholders.
The Dominican Republic (DR) is the number one resort destination in the Caribbean, with their Puerto Plata region of the DR, experiencing tremendous growth because of the increased demand for rentals in the area. During peak season the villas are rented for upwards of $10,000 to $12,000 per month, and non-peak seasons, half those numbers.
The Company bought the assignment by agreeing to issue Convertible 'C' Preferred Shares once an appraisal is done on the property. Upon completion, the title will be transferred to Citadel EFT. The original owners of the property were pleased to make the transaction, because of the tax benefits that they would enjoy in earning dividends off the rental incomes, backed by the aforementioned class of securities, and because of Citadel EFT's current financial condition, and its future prospects. One of the two majority shareholders of the company, that bought the villa prior to its build out, Mr. Bash Ahmed, felt that the transaction was more like making an investment in Citadel EFT. He said that the rental opportunity was tremendous, and that there was room to purchase more property in the next phase of Casa Linda's development. This transaction would open the door to even more collaboration to increase Citadel's portfolio.
Gary DeRoos, CEO, of Citadel EFT, further states, "We bought the assignment because there was $200,000USD in equity already in the property, with an additional $30,000USD in improvements that have been already paid by the owners of the contract. There is no debt on the property, no liens of any kind, and the balance owing to pay it off, furnish it and take possession of the title deed is a paltry $75,000USD. We feel the asset, upon an appraisal, will be attractive on the balance sheet and the rental income provides Citadel with a great opportunity to issue dividends immediately when its cash flowing, to the Preferred 'C' shareholders."
He further states, "The location of the development, and the relative stability of the Dominican Republic as a growing getaway vacation spot made this decision easy. The developers, own the property next door, there are over 600 properties in this development at nearly full occupancy, and they manage the rental pool, so that it is turn-key for us. We are not in the business of managing rental properties; we are in the business of buying income without the high cost of transacting for the business.
Management of the Company would disclose the final details of this transaction, pending an appraisal and transfer of the title deed. This property acquisition is going to be an all stock transaction for the contract. But until management knows the true book value of this property, the details of the amount of Convertible Preferred 'C' shares cannot be disclosed until completing the closing of this real-estate transaction. CDFT believes closing will occur in March, 2013.
For more information on the development, CDFT encourage its shareholders to visit the developers' website at www.casalindacity.com. If anyone wishes to view pictures of the finished property, they can email Gary Deroos, directly at firstname.lastname@example.com.
About Citadel EFT, Inc:
Based in Oceanside, CA, Citadel EFT, Inc., provides credit card merchant account services to retailers, mail order companies and online service providers. The Company provides a free terminal to the business owner and charges no yearly fees, monthly minimums, statement, or address verification fees. Citadel markets its services directly and also through resellers.
CDFT cautions that the statements made in this press release constitute forward-looking statements, and not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from the projections in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on the estimates and opinions of management at the time the statements are made.
Gary DeRoos
714-423-0701 Email Contacthttp://www.credit-card-processing.com
Gary DeRoos
714-423-0701 Email Contacthttp://www.credit-card-processing.com
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"You'll never get anywhere in life."
— Albert Einstein's 7th Grade Teacher (TRUE STORY)
Hi from Shmoop 🙂
2008: Year of the Rat.
2009: Year of the Ox.
2010: Year of the Shmoop.
** NEW: Shmoop Civics – Because Civics Is Way Cooler than It Sounds **
>> www.shmoop.com/civics <<
Stuff you'll think about in Shmoop Civics:
Gun Rights:
I have the right to defend myself.
Guns make the world more violent and dangerous.
I hate guns, but maybe they are important sometimes.
(Did you know Shmoop's fearless leader has actually been shot?)
Gay Marriage:
Everyone should have the right to marry.
Marriage is between a man and a woman.
What does marriage mean?
(It's all about the bachelor party)
Affirmative Action:
Affirmative action is necessary in an unjust society.
Affirmative action is discrimination.
Our society is flawed.
"Affirmative Action is over. Obama won." – roughly Stephen Colbert
The Constitution. Law. Politics. Government.
Civics is really about YOU. About US. Who WE want to be as a society. The issues that get us fired up. Abortion. Students' right to free speech at school. Gay marriage. Immigrant rights. Religious freedom. Stem cell research. Affirmative action. Gun rights. The right to burn a flag.
Where do you stand?
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Over 1,000 species of fish have been identified, as have several species of cetaceans including dolphins and whales, 5 species of endangered marine turtles, and a colony of 100 monk seals - the largest breeding colony left on Earth.
Globally important coral reefs
While the continental up-wellings support their characteristic floral and faunal diversity, the offshore archipelago of Cape Verde harbours one of the most important coral reefs in the world.
Recently published studies have identified Cape Verde as both a centre of endemism - because of its unique and rare species - and as a top 10 global hot spot for coral communities - where conservation action is most needed and could have the greatest benefits.
So diverse, yet forming one ecological unit
Yet, even with this enormous diversity of habitats and species, the ecoregion forms one ecological unit.
Fish that spawn in northern nurseries seasonally migrate southwards (as do the fishermen) and provide the source of food for human fishing communities along the way. Conversely, recent satellite tracking has confirmed that green turtles lay eggs along the remote beaches of Guinea Bissau and travel northwards through Senegalese and Gambian waters to graze in the rich sea grasses of Mauritania.


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The long-standing partnership between HEAD/Penn and the ATP has been extended through 2015, with HEAD/Penn continuing as the official tennis ball of the ATP and the official ball of the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals. HEAD/Penn has served as the official ball of the ATP since 1993 and of the ATP Masters 1000 since 2001.www.atpworldtour.com
Professional Tennis Registry provides quality education, global certification, and unsurpassed service to tennis teaching professionals and coaches. With more than 14,000 members in 117 countries, PTR is an inclusive and diverse organization whose members strive to Make a World of Difference in growing the sport of tennis.www.ptrtennis.org
Sanchez Casal Academy
The Sanchez-Casal Academy: Built by the famous doubles team Emilio Sanchez Vicario and Sergio Casal, this renowned sports facility is staffed by a team of top professionals. The academy offers tennis and educational programs to students and professionals.www.sanchez-casal.com
Tennis Europe
In keeping with its focus on the grassroots areas of tennis in Europe, HEAD is the partner of Tennis Europe, the largest regional association of the sport's governing body, the International Tennis Federation. HEAD is recognized as the "Official Racquet, Ball, String, Bag and Accessory Partner" of the organization, while HEAD balls are "Recommended Ball of the Tennis Europe Junior Tour."www.tenniseurope.org
Founded in 1927, USPTA is the world's oldest and largest association of tennis-teaching professionals. With more than 15,000 members worldwide, USPTA offers more than 60 professional benefits to its members, including certification and extensive educational opportunities.uspta.com
Van der Meer Tennis Academy
World-class coaches and HEAD. Many of the USPTA and PTR members worldwide endorse HEAD racquets and balls. At the Van der Meer Tennis University in South Carolina, founder Dennis Van der Meer and most of his world-class instructors play with HEAD racquets.www.vandermeertennis.com


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Science Friday® is produced by the Science Friday Initiative, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Science Friday® and SciFri® are registered service marks of Science Friday, Inc. Site design by Pentagram; engineering by Mediapolis.
The first neutrinos from outer space. A landmark ruling on gene patents. And a science shutdown. Ira Flatow and a panel of editors and bloggers discuss the year's biggest science stories, and a few predictions that didn't pan out.


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If you are interested in using this image, please consult Acknowledging the Website.
Image Reference
Lewis Miller, Sketchbook of Landscapes in the State of Virginia, 1853-1867. Courtesy, Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum, Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, Williamsburg, Virginia; slide 84-896c.
Titled, "Slave trader, Sold to Tennessee," this water color shows a group of about 20 men, women, and children, being marched from Staunton, in Augusta county, Virginia to Tennessee; guarding the group are two white men on horseback. In the caption underneath (only partially shown here), Miller writes " The company going to Tennessee from Staunton, Augusta county, the law of Virginia suffered them to go on. I was astonished at this boldness, the carrier stopped a moment, then ordered the march, I saw the play it is commonly in this state, when the negro's in droves Sold."


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Write a News Story
Meet a Pioneer Pilot
Amelia Earhart Home
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All about Amelia
By: Brock S.
United Kingdom, Age 9
Amelia was Amelia Earhart the celebrated aviator who had been the first female pilot to fly solo across the atlantic Ocean. And when two of the most famous and adventurous women in the world got together something exciting was bound to happen.
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Enter Our Photo Contest »
It's time to show off your garden filled with American Meadows products!
Show meShowing plants & seeds that grow in my area:
If you've never planted them before, you'll find the regular 'fall-flowering crocus', including C. sativus,, the saffron crocus, much like spring bloomers (about 4-5 inches tall). Colchicums are different, since every bulb (they're larger than the regular crocus bulbs) produces a whole bouquet of flowers. One Colchicum bulb will send up between 5 and 10 stems, and each one will soon bear a flower.
So plant either or both, and enjoy some brilliant spring color in your garden when you need it the most--in fall!'
|Common Name
|Autumn Crocus White
|Botanical Name
|Crocus kotschyanus Albus
|6, 7, 8, 9, 10
|Ships As
|Bulb, Rhizome, Tuber
|Light Requirements
|Full Sun, Half Sun / Half Shade
|Flower Color
|Mature Height
|4" tall
|Bulb Size
|6 cm
|Bulb Spacing
|12 bulbs per sq. ft.
|Planting Depth
|Plant 2" deep
|Bloom Time
|Plant Type / Life Cycle
|Planting Time
|Soil Type
|Loamy Soil
|Soil Moisture
|Average, Well Draining
|Easy to Grow, Containers
|Ships to Hawaii, Alaska & Canada
Fall Flowering Crocus create quick, delightful beauty in the fall garden just weeks after being planted. We ship them in August, along with the Bearded Iris, to be planted right away. They're great in the ground or in patio pots---anywhere you want to add jewel-like color for your fall garden. In just days, you'll see them poking up through the ground, and before you know it they're in bloom, just when everything else in your garden is almost finished! It's a wonderful finale of color that just won't happen without these beauties.
How to Plant:
1. Plant bulbs as soon as possible after receiving them.
2. Read the label to see how deep to plant your crocus – This may vary for different varieties of bulbs.
3. Find a sunny spot in your garden that has good drainage – Crocus bulbs do not like very moist soil. You can also plant Fall Flowering Crocus in patio pots.
4. Dig a hole according to the depth on your package. Add organic compost if available.
5. Plant bulb pointy side up. Don't worry if you can't decipher which end this is – The flower will find its way up.
6. Back-fill with soil and water thoroughly to remove air pockets.
You should see blooms in 6 -10 weeks.
If you are planting Saffron Crocus bulbs to harvest the stamens to cook with, you will want to do this once they begin blooming.
Harvesting Saffron: When the flowers are fresh, simply remove the bright red stigmas you'll see in each flower's center; they carry the saffron spice. You can use it immediately in the fresh form, or dry it for later use. To dry your saffron, simply spread the red stigmas out for several days on a paper towel in a warm dry place. Once they're dry, store them in an air-tight container in a cool, dark place, and use the saffron whenever you like.
Fall-Flowering Crocus and Colchicum will start shipping in mid August.
As soon as your order is placed you will receive a confirmation email. You will receive a second email the day your order ships telling you how it has been sent. Fall bulbs are shipped at the proper planting time for your hardiness zone. Perennial orders may arrive separately from bulbs and seeds. If your order requires more than one shipment, there is no additional shipping charge. See our shipping information page for approximate ship dates and more detailed information. If you need express shipping or have any questions, please call Customer Service toll-free at (877) 309-7333 or contact us by email.View Shipping Rate Chart
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Comments about American Meadows White Fall Flowering Crocus:
I'm so glad that eventually they bloomed!! I planted them right after I had received them (8/20 planted), and they didn't show any sign of life till almost a month later. I thought they failed to grow. And then, on 9/29, I saw little shoots coming up, but that was it till recently. And finally today 10/20 in the morning, I saw little flower buds, and then, by the noon, they were fully open (pic attached). I am SO glad, and they are SO adorable. I know AM shipped 6-bulb pack, but I saw 7 shoots in total, so got one extra as a bonus :) I am so pleased with these little beauties... perhaps I will buy and plant more next year.
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Comments about American Meadows White Fall Flowering Crocus:
I ordered three kinds of fall crocuses. Only one bloomed and they were not cheap !
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Comments about American Meadows White Fall Flowering Crocus:
Didn't feel like planting when they arrived last fall, but will really be glad I did this fall!
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Comments about American Meadows White Fall Flowering Crocus:
I should had bought more as they were small. If they do well this year, I may buy more.
To determine if a plant is sufficiently cold hardy, the USDA created numbered zones indicating winter low temperatures; the lower the zone number the colder the winter.
Enter your Zip Code to find your USDA Planting Zone
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Pittsburgh is cracking down on littering, and it's not messing around. According to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, the city's mayor announced last month that "police will more strictly enforce the city's litter ordinances and fine scofflaws who throw trash on the ground." And, no, no one is above the law. Not even members of the Steelers.
On Monday, Steelers receiver Emmanuel Sanders pleaded guilty to depositing boxes of trash beside a private trash receptacle. The monster! Sanders was fined $300 plus court costs. But he had also been featured in a television ad about the city's anti-littering campaign. And according to The Trib, the campaign's website no longer links to Sanders's ad. Here's Sanders trying to explain himself:
"I think littering is more throwing trash on the ground and knowing that you're wrong for it," he said. "I actually put the trash in the trash can. That's the big difference."
A likely story, hippy.
[Pittsburgh Tribune-Review; photo via AP]


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Expert Reviews
2013 Hyundai Equus
The Hyundai Equus is a large luxury car built on the same platform as the midsize Genesis sedan. Equus takes features and interior materials to the next level, with refined, sophisticated driving characteristics designed to appeal to prestige buyers looking for a roomy freeway cruiser. Like many other luxury cars, Equus is rear-wheel drive.
Power for the Hyundai Equus comes from a 5.0-liter V8 engine that makes 429 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque. Aided by an 8-speed automatic transmission, Equus achieves a EPA fuel economy rating of 18 miles per gallon Combined city and highway.
When the Equus launched two years ago, many scoffed at the notion that the Korean carmaker could produce a luxury sedan on par with the likes of BMW, Mercedes, Lexus and Infiniti. But time has proven that Hyundai's gamble is paying off. According to Hyundai, not only have Equus sales been on the rise, but residual values for 2011-12 models are higher than for many large German competitors. Considering the stratospheric panache permeating the luxury-car industry, that is a praiseworthy achievement.
At the very least, we'd say the Equus is a fantastic vehicle to move into from a lower segment. Although Hyundai likes to say that it competes directly with the much higher-priced Mercedes S-Class, BMW 7 Series and Audi A8, we don't necessarily see potential Mercedes or BMW buyers considering the Hyundai brand. But with a base price of less than $60,000, the Equus offers all the performance, refinement and amenities this class of car offers at considerably less money than the entrenched opposition. More realistically, we see the Hyundai Equus as a good alternative to the Lexus LS and Infiniti M.
Don't be fooled by the badge. The Hyundai Equus is the result of intensive engineering, tasteful design and intelligent use of supplier's technology. While it might be tempting for some to discount this car as a luxury wannabe with derivative styling and a copycat format, our experience inside the car tells us that Hyundai has closed in on the concept of fine car-making in a way that confirms there is no going back.
Model LineupHyundai Equus Signature ($59,250); Ultimate ($66,250)
Walk Around
At first glance, the Equus flashes styling cues at you from various other brands. There's a little Mercedes in the grille, some Lexus at the rear lights, perhaps a bit of Acura RL from directly behind the car. But the Equus goes on to establish its own look after you see it enough times. Hyundai calls its design language Fluidic Sculpture.
At the front, the grille design we know well from the Hyundai Genesis has been skillfully integrated with the headlight shapes, and carefully beveled front corners allow the light forms to carry around as vivid slashes into the quarter panels. The effect visually shortens the front overhang appreciably, to good effect. It is functional, too, allowing the auto-cornering HID headlights to swivel more effectively as the car turns.
The side of the car is distinguished by a contour crease that runs across the top of the front fender and then arcs through the doors before kicking up over the rear door handle to meet the rear light, lending the rear fender a muscular outline as it does. Chrome window surrounds and a bright strip below the doors adds further detail, while large, bright 19-inch wheels cram the wheel housings to emphasize a solid stance.
A fast roofline reduces the impression of size, so it is a surprise when you discover just how much interior space the design allows. Lexus has yet to field a comparable long-wheelbase model. And the sleek Hyundai roof doesn't hurt rear-seat headroom much, either. The Equus is 1.9-inches shorter and 0.6-inch wider than the 2013 Lexus LS 460 L, yet the Hyundai offers 2.2 inches more rear seat leg room. The Lexus scores higher for rear seat head room and hip room, but by less than half an inch in each measurement.
As you'd expect from an ambitious luxury-class contender, the Equus features a tidy leather and wood trimmed interior. There's nothing adventurous or experimental about the design, it's straightforwardly classic, but with some interesting arcs and curves in the dashboard wood inlays and vent register shapes to add character. An microfiber-suede headliner lends a real sense of privilege, and the seats are generous in size and support.
Contemporary instrumentation technology makes for an attractive display, and the main gauges are large and legible. A driver's information display is incorporated into the IP, providing all trip and vehicle status alerts, with accompanying audible warnings when appropriate.
Considering how much equipment the car has, the control layout is relatively uncluttered, with easily found switches and a fairly intuitive iDrive-like function controller. As is typical of the class, the Equus mounts some of the more commonly used switches on the steering wheel, further simplifying the layout.
Tall drivers will like the Equus, since it flaunts a roomy interior with large door apertures for easy access. And sybarites will enjoy the many luxury and convenience devices. We found no difficulty operating the stereo system or navigation without recourse to the manual, although a quick review of the voice-control glossary will certainly help if you plan to handle those tasks verbally.
Both models come with an extremely high level of interior equipment, including a heated wood-and-leather steering wheel with power tilt-and-telescopic adjustment, heated and cooled front seats, suede headliner, driver's seat massage, dual automatic climate control with separate adjustment and rear-seat vent control, power-reclining rear seats, power rear sunshades, auto defogging system with rain-sensing wipers, and 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat.
The Ultimate model adds a forward-view parking and cornering camera, a power decklid, reclining rear seats with powered headrests, cooled rear seats, rear seat massage and leg support, rear seat refrigerator and a rear seat entertainment system. Harman's Lexicon stereo system is among the best available in-car sound systems we've ever heard, with full 7.1 Discrete Logic Surround Sound for brilliant separation and imaging.
Driving Impressions
Drivers will find much to enjoy behind the wood and leather steering wheel and the unusual winged emblem found at its center. The combination of a very stiff structure, elaborate sound-insulating disciplines and an air-spring suspension produces an experience that is at once quiet, smooth and responsive.
The 5.0-liter V8 (which was new for 2012) provides ample power for merging and passing maneuvers, although it falls short of its German competitors when it comes to low-end thrust. As a total package, however, powertrain performance is equal to, if not better than, many of the Equus's rivals. The 8-speed transmission (also new last year) allows the car to spin at low revs for fuel economy's sake, but without seeming gutless. On the rare occasions where engine speed is too low for the driver's needs, it's reasonably quick to find a lower gear.
Of course, the shifts are made in keeping with the Equus's quest for refinement, and the avoidance of shift-shock is a big priority. If you need more response, the selector slips over into the manual slot and puts command back at the driver's right hand. It still takes a full-throttle, high-rev run for the redline to showcase the Tau's real strength, when the fairly hefty car displays an impressive surge of acceleration.
With multi-link suspension all around, the big Hyundai's chassis handles accurately, abetted by the Continental air-struts and the Sachs electronically controlled damping system. There's a driver-selectable Sport position, which subdues ride motions quite well without introducing much abruptness into the ride, but this is not really the kind of car one wants to fling around. It does very nicely with deliberate inputs at a brisk pace.
Hyundai's decision to adopt a hybrid electro-hydraulic steering mechanism was a good one. Utilizing an electric motor to drive a power-steering pump, it benefits from the energy savings enjoyed when cruising straight ahead with the motor at rest, and from the more natural feel of hydraulic assist once the electric motor has been summoned into action. Compared against even some fairly high-end nameplates with fully electric assist systems, the Equus has a far more organic sense to its steering.
With its attractive styling, smooth-as-silk handling and excellent warranty, the Hyundai Equus is a solid choice in the luxury sedan segment. Although those seeking the prestige of name recognition might turn to more established brands, the Hyundai Equus provides admirable performance and features at a fair price.
Laura Burstein and Barry Winfield contributed to this NewCarTestDrive.com report.


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Is the BAE/EADS merger a dead duck?
For all the flak thrown at the boards of BAE and EADS in recent days, they do not believe their plan to merge the huge defence and aviation companies is dead. But are they right?
Well-placed sources tell me that they are likely to decide tomorrow night to request a 14-day extension to the timetable for getting all the necessary ducks in a row - which is an essential pre-condition of them coming out of purdah and announcing the detailed terms of the marriage they seek.
But is it really worth it, in that those ducks seem to be the least herdable and most ornery of any quackers I've encountered?
In just the last few days, we learned that the German and French governments remain a long way from surrendering the kind of shareholder influence over the enlarged company that would persuade the British government to back the deal - and, perhaps more importantly, would also dissuade the US government from taking BAE off its list of privileged defence suppliers.
In simple terms, the deal cannot happen unless France and Germany both agree that they will never own more than 9% each of the enlarged group and that they will have no formal pact to act in concert.
For BAE, a positive sign is that the French, German and UK governments are having proper talks about this. And, for reasons that slightly elude me, BAE's senior people do not seem terribly worried that the French are refusing to agree this ceiling on its ownership and control.
Meanwhile 45 Tory MPs have written to the British prime minister expressing concern that the UK's industrial and national interests could be jeopardised by the tie-up.
And as a reminder that this is not just about politics but is also about the wealth of those who own BAE through their pension schemes and savings plans, BAE's largest shareholder, Invesco Perpetual, has put out a statement savaging both the putative strategic logic behind the deal and its financial implications.
Invesco, which is far and away BAE's most important owner with 13.3% of the company, warns that BAE's all-important US military revenues could be undermined and also that the likely terms of the deal with EADS undervalue the British company.
Is there really nobody apart from the boards of the two companies in love with the idea of this merger?
What is galling for the directors of BAE and EADS is that, under the takeover rules, they are banned from promoting the rationale for the deal until a formal offer has been put to shareholders. Which means that day after day all the noise about the transaction is of a relentlessly negative character.
And here is what may finally tip BAE's directors and their advisers into a realisation that the obstacles to the merger may be insuperable: the British prime minister and his cabinet are not as enthusiastic about the deal as they seemed to believe.
The attraction for the British government of the merger is that it might reduce the risk that one day EADS could decide to relocate the manufacture of wings for Airbuses away from the UK.
Airbus UK is a vital part of the country's hi-tech manufacturing capacity, supporting something like 140,000 jobs in Britain in total. And the government has long been uncomfortable that it is owned by EADS, because EADS is in turn 50.5% controlled by the French, German and Spanish governments, which are united by a concert-party agreement or ownership pact.
So if the merger of BAE and EADS was accompanied by a reduction of around a third in the direct investment of these governments and a tearing up of the ownership pact, then that would be seen by David Cameron as a big win for Britain.
But against that, I am told, is his concern that the merger would leave the French and German states with the ability to influence the biggest and most important engineering business in the UK, BAE - and could in theory make it harder to protect our military technology and secrets.
What is more, he is concerned that what he sees as the UK's vital military links with the US could be weakened by the europeanisation of BAE - which, as just one example, could damage British work on the Joint Strike Fighter programme.
All of which suggests that the crunching together of BAE and EADS may never move from being the beautiful dream of the two boards into hard reality.


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This weekend, Saturday, April 28 and Sunday, April 29 from 12:00 PM- 4:00 PM, BC Place will be holding a community weekend. This will be a great chance for fans to come check out the home of your Vancouver Whitecaps FC. Fans can enter BC Place through Gate A (Access from Terry Fox Plaza/ Beatty Street).
There will be a plethora of activities for fans to part take in, including tours of the newly renovated BC Place hospitality suites, food tasting on the concourse, soccer-specific activities on the pitch, a visit from Spike, and scarf which you can sign to wish the team well for the remainder of the season.
Perhaps, the biggest attraction for fans will be the chance to go inside the locker room of Whitecaps FC, which will be open to tour. The locker room will be set-up as if the players are ready to take the pitch. You can see the player's lockers, the coaching staff's locker room, and see where the players get top of the line treatment to help them recover to get back on the pitch as quickly as possible.
There will also be some major giveaways as well. The first 100 people to come through each day will get a free copy of Bob Lenarduzzi: A Canadian Soccer Story, while you can also enter to win match tickets.
Don't miss your chance to take part in this great opportunity!


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By Jason Pribila: Each year the First Saturday of May is circled on my calendar. My unofficial start of summer always a full day of sports and spirits, and this year was no different. Festivities started with the annual running of the Kentucky Derby and ended with Floyd Mayweather Jr. breaking the news to Team Guerrero that their fifteen minutes of fame have expired.
Unfortunately the aftermath of May Day left me losing a battle with a cold and allergies, but fortunately the Claritan kicked in and my head is clear enough to take a look back at last weekend's winners and losers.
Too Early To Tell:
Showtime PPV – In my opinion the first installment of the Mayweather experience was a big yawn. Floyd had not fought in a year and did two months in the cooler since he fought Miguel Cotto, so no one was expecting him to put himself in much danger in the first of a 6 fight deal. However, Showtime's build up to the fight did nothing to ever present Guerrero as a threat. No matter the odds, HBO's 24/7 always found a way to make the challenger seem destined to pull off the upset.
This is not entirely Showtime's fault. Guerrero does not have much of a personality in front of the camera, and his Pops came from central casting for the WWE.
Several outlets reported that the PPV would come in under 1 million buys. Golden Boy CEO Richard Schaeffer blasted those reports on Boxingscene.com and stated that the fight would indeed break 1 million buys.
Whatever the final number turns out to be, this is a six fight deal and one fight won't make or break it. That being said, guaranteeing Mayweather $32 million to face Guerrero or any opponent without their own established fan base is financial suicide. If in fact Mayweather fights on September 14 a much better B-side needs to share the marquee.
What will determine if this deal ends up a failure or success is how the Mayweather deal will translate to new subscribers. How this exposure elevates the Showtime brand is more important than the final May Day numbers.
6. Daniel Ponce De Leon: The 32-year old Mexican brawler was considered the bigger puncher when he faced his friend Abner Mares in the evening's co-feature. De Leon was written off when he was KO-1 by Juan Manuel Lopez in 2008. However, the former Olympian worked hard to tighten up his defensive skills, while polishing his boxing skills. This is the same guy that took Adrien Broner to the final bell in a junior lightweight bout. Against Mares, however, he was out-boxed, out-punched, out-classed and eventually stopped in 9. It was not a great night for De Leon and it is clear that he has reached his ceiling.
5. J'Leon Love: Being a protégé of the Money Team has its advantages. Love remained undefeated, but his reputation took a hit. First he struggled to make weight, which may have led to a sluggish performance. Then he got dropped in a fight that many people felt that Gabriel Rosado won outright.
Love seems like a really nice kid, and he even offered Rosado a rematch. However, he is not very exciting in the ring. I fear he will be to Mayweather what Derrick Gainer was to Roy Jones Jr.
4. Heavyweight Division: Once upon a time the sport of boxing was healthy as long as there was a strong heavyweight division. Now, the consensus heavyweight championship was being contested on a Saturday afternoon on a cable channel that few could even subscribe to if they were interested. Wins against Frans Botha and Oliver McCall may have meant something in 1993, but 20 years later it is simply further proof to how far the glamour division has fallen. You say Pianeta, I say Piñata…..you get the idea.
3. Herb Santos – This is the judge that watched a different fight than his colleagues at ringside, the Showtime announcers, and the millions that viewed the Love-Rosado fight worldwide. I have sat ringside, and I do have an appreciation for how judges could see different things depending on where the action in the ring takes place. However, when everyone considers the fight close, and you give a guy 8 rounds out of ten, it means that you had your card filled out before the fight. Herb, the only reason why you aren't higher on the list is because there is no doubt that you will end up being paid at a prizefight before either Love or Rosado reenter the ring. When will judges become accountable for the cards they turn in?
2. Robert Guerrero – When the highlight used to promote a PPV shows a fighter holding his opponent behind the head while teeing off on him, It leads the consumer to believe that maybe he doesn't have the body of work to challenge the world's top fighter. Truth is, Guerrero did not deserve this shot. However, he has an ace publicist, and an inspiring story that many felt would move the needle. They miscalculated, and after 6 minutes it was clear that Guerrero was in over his head. Luckily, his promoter has their own network so he will get another shot.
1. Ruben Guerrero: The only thing worse than Robert's performance was that his trainer had zero game plan or strategy. Actually, his strategy seemed to be to act a fool, and try to get under Floyd's skin. Somehow, this would cause Floyd to forget everything he has learned and practiced his entire life. Team Guerrero did achieve one thing that I felt would be impossible, and that was to make the Mayweather clan likeable.
Honorable Mention: Sugar Ra - Of all the lovely ladies that work at the local pub, it was the lovely Rachel that picked the #4 as her horse in the Kentucky Derby. When "Golden Soul" finished second, Rachel's electric eyes lit up and everyone felt like a winner. Now if I could only figure out how to convert the staff to boxing fans.
5. Leo Santa Cruz: In 2012 Santa Cruz fought five times including an appearance on CBS. He continues to be one of the sport's most exciting fighters, and he should continue to land meaningful time slots. The only issue is that he is in need of an opponent that someone recognizes. Rafael Marquez was originally offered this fight, but he thankfully pulled out. Let's hope Santa Cruz gets the kind of B-side that will launch his career.
4. Gabriel Rosado – Rosado passed up a #1 ranking at 154 lbs. in order to challenge middleweight titlist Gennedy Golovkin. Rosado held his own despite suffering a nasty cut, but he earned the lead-off slot of a major PPV. Again, this loss won't hurt him. Rosado continues to improve in the ring, and he will be a tough out when he hopefully moves back to 154. Rosado does deserve extra kudos for basically telling Mayweather Promotions mouthpiece Leonard Ellerbe to go F himself during a heated exchange during the final press conference. Way to represent Pennsylvania, kid!
3. Canelo Alvarez: Originally slated to support another Mayweather PPV, Alvarez opted to face Austin Trout on April 20 in San Antonio. A commercial and critical success now put Canelo in a great position when it comes to future negotiations. It will be an interesting couple of weeks as Golden Boy attempts to negotiate and announce Mayweather's next opponent.
2. Abner Mares: Three titles in three divisions in the last three years. Few if any fighters have put together a better resume than Mares since 2010. When negotiations between Mares and Donaire failed, Mares moved up in weight and dominated a bigger opponent. Mares has star potential and Golden Boy needs to make it a priority to make sure it is reached.
1. Floyd Joy Mayweather Jr. – Love him, hate him, and boo all you want. The man earned $32 million on May Day, and woke up in less pain than those who emptied their ice boxes while dishing out $70 to see him barely break a sweat. People will continue to question his legacy, and future PPV numbers will plateau if he fails to challenge himself in his next five fights.
However, at this moment, there is no debate as to who is still at the top of his sport.
Jason Pribila is a full voting member of the Boxing Writers Association of America. He could be reached for questions or comments at firstname.lastname@example.com and followed on twitter.com @PribsBoxing
© 2000 - 2011 Knockout Entertainment Ltd & SecondsOut.com


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Glenn Beck has given TheBlaze his response to an invitation from World Wrestling Entertainment to appear on Monday Night Raw live in Dallas next week: "Unfortunately, I am currently booked doing anything else."
Beck and the WWE have directed comments at each other over the past week after the wrestling organization introduced two Tea Party-inspired characters, "Jack Swagger" and "Zeb Colter."
The WWE first extended an invitation to Beck through a statement Friday after the radio host criticized the new characters on his show Wednesday for depicting tea partiers as racially insensitive villains, in turn "demonizing the Tea Party." Beck went on to question the WWE's motives when portraying the Tea Party this way, noting his belief that most wrestling fans are likely not progressives.
"Maybe that's the way WWE people view the Tea Party. And maybe they love to hate the Tea Party. But I have to tell you, I expect that from Hollywood, but I don't expect ‑‑ if I'm getting my entertainment from somebody that I think is on my side ‑‑ and I'm sorry, I just don't see a bunch of progressives going and buying their tickets to the WWE. Do you?" Beck posited Wednesday.
"I mean, and maybe there are. I tend to notice that the progressives are not as popular in the South unless they've moved from the North. So I'm just trying to figure out exactly who they're trying to appeal here, who they're appealing to."
In a video released on the official WWE YouTube page Friday evening, the wrestlers broke character to address Beck and his comments. After first calling out Swagger's upcoming WrestleMania opponent in a cartoonish minute-and-a-half promo, performers Wayne Keown (Colter) and Jake Hager (Swagger) address Beck directly to clarify that they are not political commentators, rather entertainers.
"We aren't in the political business, or the immigration business. We are in the entertainment business," Keown says. He goes on to list the size and demographics of the WWE audience, and the reasoning behind the storylines of characters like Colter and Swagger.
"We have about 60 characters on our show — a lot more than say NCIS or Glee — but we're not that much different. Some of our characters are really likable and some are detestable — good guys and bad guys," Keown says. "We don't use guns, and we don't depict murder or rape, typically seen on primetime dramas. Our program is PG."
"Many of your followers are WWE fans and they understand the difference between reality and entertainment," Keown adds.
"Are you out of touch with your audience Glenn? Or are you just a 'stupid political commentator?'"
At the end of the video, Keown invites Beck once again to appear on Raw in Dallas Monday, and after Friday's video, says the radio host can deliver a five-minute, unedited rebuttal to their global television audience and a sold-out crowd.
Watch the video message from Keown/Colter and Hager/Swagger to Glenn Beck below:


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Don't get me wrong, I'm all in favor of the continued exploration of space, be it public or private funding. Space X HQ is barely three miles from my office, and I have a buddy who works for the Ansari X Prize project.
Space X actually has a launch tomorrow; the first U.S. contracted resupply mission to the International Space Station.


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Kenmore 5.1 cu. ft. Chest Freezer
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The compact Kenmore 5.1 cu. ft. chest freezer gives you additional room for frozen food without taking up a lot of space; at just 32-in. tall, its a good choice for smaller living spaces such as apartments. it has a removable wire basket to store items that don't stack well or that you use often.
- The Kenmore 5.1 cu. ft compact chest freezer has front-mounted adjustable temperature controls and a power indicator light
- A convenient removable wire basket gives you fingertip convenience for storing smaller items
- A defrost drain conveniently removes water and saves you from straining to reach the bottom of the freezer


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"If you could have one – and only one – bicycle, which would it be?"
All ride and no work makes prickly pear a happy cactus
Editor's Note: The Angry Singlespeeder is a collection of mercurial musings from contributing editor Kurt Gensheimer. In no way do his maniacal diatribes about all things bike oriented represent the opinions of Mtbr, RoadBikeReview, or any of their employees, contractors, janitorial staff, family members, household pets, or any other creature, living or dead. You can submit questions or comments to Kurt at firstname.lastname@example.com. And make sure to check out Kurt's previous columns.
The other night I was faced with a quandary. It was one of the greatest quandaries of my entire life. A friend asked, "If you could have one – and only one – bicycle, which would it be?" I couldn't immediately answer him, because, quite frankly it blew my mind. I've never even considered that kind of situation as a possible reality. One bike to rule all? Seriously? I didn't think it was a fair question. Riding bikes is like eating chocolate chip cookies; you can never have just one.
I went home, opened the garage and stared at my collection of six bikes. Every one of them I ride, some more often than others, but they all get use. Otherwise, what's the point in having them? I've got two Ibis Tranny mountain bikes (one geared, one singlespeed), an Ibis Hakkalugi Disc cyclocross bike, an early 1980s Columbus-tubed Bianchi touring/cyclocross bike, a Bridgestone RB-1 road bike set up as a singlespeed/fixie and my dad's 1955 Miele Sport three-speed. Which one to keep?
Modern cross bikes are every bit as fast on the tarmac as most road bikes
Versatility would be paramount in this decision. It would have to be a bike that can do everything, because I'm a guy who likes to ride everything. Whether it's a century on pavement, a week-long bikepacking trip, miles and miles of singletrack or dirt roads that stretch past the horizon, the perfect bike would have to be able to tackle it all with speed, agility and comfort.
Cyclocross bikes are the proverbial Swiss Army Knife of bikes. They can do anything and go anywhere, so my decision was immediately narrowed down to two bikes – the Hakkalugi Disc and the old Bianchi. Both bikes are incredibly versatile and feel at home both on the fastest stretches of pavement and on rocky, technical singletrack. But which one is better suited for do-all status?
Columbus-tubed Bianchi frame found for free at a garage sale
The Bianchi is near and dear to my heart because it's a rusty old frame I picked up for free at a garage sale eight years ago. What I love about this bike besides the fact that it was free is its exceptional ride qualities, the original WTB/Specialized dirt drop handlebars, semi-horizontal dropouts for singlespeed use and eyelets for racks and fenders. What I don't love is its 25 pound heft and its far too narrow 120mm rear hub spacing that limits rear tire width. And despite having Shimano M900 XTR cantilever brakes that work quite well, even the best cantilevers pale in comparison to hydraulic disc brakes.
Even with road slicks a cyclocross bike can explore off-road
For all-out, all-around performance, the Hakka Disc – or any disc brake cyclocross bike for that matter – is a hard bike to beat. Thanks to its 135mm rear hub spacing, not only can the Hakka accommodate 29er mountain bike wheels with tubeless tires as large as 38c, but it also has hydraulic Formula R1 disc brakes to help it conquer some of the most technical trails in San Diego with confident control. The recent advent of hydraulic disc brakes and tubeless tires on cyclocross bikes has only further solidified the cyclocross bike as the ultimate do-all machine.
With hydraulic discs, tubeless tires and a skilled pilot, a 'cross bike can handle this trail
To prove its worthiness, I took the Hakka down a trail called Bowling Alley, a gnarly, rutted-out downhill in North County San Diego littered with rocks that knock you around like bowling pins. If it weren't for the hydraulic discs and tubeless tires, there's no way I would have made it down Bowling Alley without either double flatting or careening off the edge of a cliff with no brakes.
One of the greatest photos of all time – Long live Johnny Tomac
After conquering Bowling Alley, the next morning I slapped a set of 25c road wheels on the Hakka and did the Swami's Saturday Ride, a super fast and painful road ride that sees uphill speeds approaching 30 mph. The Hakka felt nearly as fast as my old Madone, but with a lot more comfort and braking power. At 17.5 lbs with road wheels, the Hakka isn't the lightest road bike you'll ever own, but the Madone wouldn't last 30 seconds in places that the Hakka thrives. It was hard to believe I was able to ride one of the most technical trails and one of the hardest group road rides in San Diego on the same bike.
So to answer the original question, if I had one bike to rule all, it would actually have to be a cyclocross bike that blended the best attributes of both the Ibis and the Bianchi. I guess you could call it what many consider a "monstercross" bike. It would have to be carbon, because it's lighter and easily repairable. It would also have to be a disc brake frame with 135mm rear hub spacing, room for at least 38c tires, replaceable dropouts to run as either a geared bike or singlespeed, eyelets for racks or fenders, and oh yeah, it would have to be a breakaway bike so I can travel with it. Now that would be the ultimate Swiss Army Knife of bikes.
It's a tall order for sure, but if I'm gonna have only one bike, it's got to have everything. Now, does anybody know if such a beast exists? If so, let me know. I might have to add one to the collection just in case I'm ever forced to sell all my other bikes.


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ST. LOUIS, Mo.-- The GC Baseball team traveled to Webster University on Tuesday and could not pull off the upset, losing 3-1 and 5-4 to the SLIAC powerhouse.
In the first game, Kenny Trager recorded the only Greenville hit of the game with a triple. Dalton McFarland had an RBI for GC. Tyler Pilcher was credited with the loss, pitching five innings and allowing 6 hits and two runs. Scott Voyles also got an inning on the mound, facing 6 batters and allowing 3 hits and a run. The final score; GC 1, Webster 3.
The second game of the double-header was closer for the Panthers, as they came out swinging and had a 3-2 lead until the ninth inning. GC scored a run in the top of the ninth, but it would not prove to be enough. Unfortunately for Greenville, Webster refused to go down easily and they had a ninth inning come back, scoring three runs to earn the 5-4 win. Offensively, Ryan Smith hit a homer for two GC RBI and Hunter Bryan and Dylan Goldsmith each earned an RBI. Josh Wagemann, Nick Bifano, and Scott Voyles all saw time on the mound, with Voyles recording the loss. Wagemann faced 20 batters and gave up 2 runs, Bifano pitched to 13 batters and allowed just 2 hits and no runs, and Voyles faced 8 batters, allowed 4 hits, and gave up three runs.
The team's record now moves to 8-13 (5-7 SLIAC). They are scheduled to play again at home on April 12 when they take on fellow SLIAC team, Westminster.


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YELLOW SPRINGS, Ohio - May 21, 2010 - Citing what they dub the "Three Cs" - classroom, co-op and community - the editors at the Huffington Post named Antioch College to their list of top non-... › MORE
Update: May 21, 2010, 2:00 p.m. YELLOW SPRINGS, Ohio -- The governing board of the newly independent Antioch College will hold its spring meeting May 22-23 at the College, One Morgan Place.... › MORE
Morgan Fellows of Antioch College to Host Fifth in Series of Symposia on Contemporary Issues in Society --May 22nd Roundtable to Address Question: "Do the Humanities Have a Future? Strategies... › MORE
by Christian Feuerstein '94In honor of National Poetry Month, this week's alumni profile is of Alice B. Fogel '76. Fogel is a poet, writer, and professor. She is author of three poetry collections,... › MORE
Chicago Area Antioch College Alumni Event Date: April 10, 2010 Time: 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Where: Bucktown Library, 1701 N. Milwaukee, Parking lot, limited metered parking; 1 block... › MORE
Distinguished Writing Award Reception TIME: Wednesday, May 12, 2010; 6:00 - 9:30 p.m. LOCATION: The National Arts Club, 15 Gramercy Park South, NYC, NY DETAILS: Honorary Event Chair, Frances... › MORE
Dr. Ursula Bellugi '52, a professor and director of the Laboratory for Cognitive Neuroscience at the Salk Institute in La Jolla, California, is a pioneer in the study of the biological foundation... › MORE
For the second year running, the Antioch Review has been named a finalist for the Annual National Magazine Award. This year's nomination is in the fiction category for the story "The Coat" by German... › MORE
Joey Hill '89 says laughingly, "Sometimes people look at me blankly when I tell them about my books." She is the author of four series of erotic romances, both paranormal and... › MORE
Fifteen members of the Antioch College community have been named to begin the process of recruiting and identifying candidates for the president of newly independent College. The announcement was... › MORE


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Joey Sap - Hy Expectations [Unsigned Hype]
"This is the single off of "Flosa Nostra", a canvas polished with individuality and originality presented with the expectations of masterpiece. "Hy Expectations" is a song based on every day dreams that we strive for." [m]
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Prague Open | 21 - 25 May 2014
Prague, Czech Republic, May 23, 2014 – All top teams at the women's only FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour Prague Open made it to the last 16 on Friday.
Much to the delight of the Czech fans, first seeded home team Kristyna Kolocova and Marketa Slukova entered the second elimination round with three straight wins.
Germany's Laura Ludwig and Kira Walkenhorst, second seeded in Prague and the Shanghai gold medallists, did the same. Their compatriots and vice-world champions Karla Borger and Britta Büthe (4th) also made it to the last 16 as pool winners. As did third seeded Germans Katrin Holtwick and Ilka Semmler.
The second round field also features veterans Maria Antonelli and Juliana Felisberta. The Brazilians won two silver medals (Fuzhou and Puerto Vallarta Open) in their first three events and also topped their pool in Prague.
Fifth seeded Chen Xue and Xinyi Xia from China, who won bronze in Fuzhou and Puerto Vallarta, finished second in their pool, but booked a 2-0 win over Lithuania's Dumbauskaite/Povilaityte in the first knockout round.
There were also some unexpected pool winners, like 9th seeded Bansley/Pavan and 21st seeded Gioria/Giombini.
Canada and Italy claim top position in pool play for the first time
Canada's Heather Bansley and Sarah Pavan and Italy's Daniela Gioria and Laura Giombini became pool winners on Friday for the first time in their careers. Both teams will continue the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour Prague Open in the second elimination round on Saturday. More
Austria's Schützenhöfer leads her partner into the top 16 of the Prague Open
Austria's Katharina Schützenhöfer and Lena Plesiutschnig made it to the last 16 at the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour Prague Open on Friday. It was the first time in their short World Tour career the young pair made it to the second elimination round. More
Czech favourites enjoy the home support at the Prague Open
Top seeded Kristyna Kolocova and Marketa Slukova have all the reasons to be confident at the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour Prague Open. The Czech pair topped their pool with three straight wins and they have all the support of the large home crowd on centre court. But the home team was not at all pleased with their performance in their last pool match against Thailand. More
The women's only Prague Open continues on Saturday with the second knockout round at 10.00, followed by the quarterfinals in the afternoon. The semifinals and medal matches are played on Sunday in the stadium on Stvanice Island and will be televised.
After Prague the World Tour stops in Russia for the double gender Anapa Open (May 27-June 1) and the Moscow Grand Slam (June 11-15). In between those two events the European teams travel to Cagliari in Italy for the CEV European Championships.
FIVB Prague Open Tournament Page
FIVB Prague Open Pool Standings
FIVB Prague Open Qualification
FIVB World Tour Twitter Account
25.05.2014 19:47:00
Czech beach volleyball stars Kiki & Maki answer fan questions
Prague, Czech Republic, May 26, 2014 – Prague hosted four FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour events before, but they were all men's Opens. This year the... More...
25.05.2014 17:35:54
Kolocova and Slukova claim their first World Tour gold in home town Prague
Prague, Czech Republic, May 25, 2014 – Kristyna Kolocova and Marketa Slukova won the inaugural women's FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour Prague Open on... More...
25.05.2014 17:13:10
Olympic rowing champion Knapkova cheers for Kolocova/Slukova
Prague, Czech Republic, May 25, 2014 - Olympic rowing champion Miroslava Knapkova came to support her fellow Czechs Kristyna Kolocova and Marketa Sluk... More...
25.05.2014 13:35:20
Kolocova and Slukova reach first career final in hometown Prague
24.05.2014 19:35:20
Czech Republic, Austria and two German teams in Prague Open final four
24.05.2014 18:55:24
Home team Kolocova/Slukova in final four of Prague Open
24.05.2014 11:59:00
Canada's Bansley and Pavan knock out China's Xue/Xia
24.05.2014 09:42:20
Schwaiger sisters back in action after months out with injury
23.05.2014 19:28:48
Austria's Schützenhöfer leads her partner into the top 16 of the Prague Open
23.05.2014 15:49:21
Czech favourites enjoy the home support at the Prague Open
23.05.2014 14:27:18
Canada and Italy claim top position in pool play for the first time
22.05.2014 18:58:00
German teams show muscles at first day of Prague Open main draw
22.05.2014 17:31:33
Italy's Gioria and Giombini upset Xue/Xia at Prague Open
22.05.2014 15:39:04
Dutch debutant Jessica Smit celebrates birthday on Prague Open centre court
22.05.2014 10:04:44
Time for change at the FIVB Beach Volleyball Prague Open
21.05.2014 21:56:46
Prague main draw opening match: Ludwig/Walkenhorst vs. Vorlova/Nakladalova
21.05.2014 17:10:14
Czech qualifiers Vorlova/Nakladalova grab main draw spot at Prague Open
20.05.2014 14:47:20
Germany's Bieneck/Grossner lead Prague Open qualification field
19.05.2014 23:40:38
Talking stats: 2014 FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour--May 19
19.05.2014 03:48:03
FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour resumes at women's FIVB Prague Open
16.05.2014 19:02:53
Germany's Ludwig and Walkenhorst lead the field in Prague
30.01.2014 16:34:34
2014 FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour ready for more highlights in record-breaking year


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xbay wrote:"Always" Next wrote:warriorsstepup wrote:migya wrote:warriorsstepup wrote:migya wrote:bigstrads wrote:No way they give up Landry in that trade man.
I really like the idea, for nothing more than getting some serious contracts off our books.
I dont like the idea of Beans going though...........who the F would be our center!? cuz it wont be Landry and he isnt right for it either.
Maggette, Bell and Radmanovic straight up.
I reckon the Rockets would give Landry for Maggette and AB, they'd be insane not to. I don't think AB is that great, very good yes, but not great. I'd rather see the team really look for a Center in another trade or through free agency because AB is not that special at all.
The point here is to shed salary and that is done with getting rid of Maggette's long contract and would complete a very good overhaul of getting rid of the three worst contracts on the team, in Crawford, SJack and Maggette.
Don't think the Rockets would go for Radman, though I'd do that trade for sure, get rid of two long contracts, as Radman's is also
That's a good idea any way to unload Maggs contract, all though he has played well the last couple games minus the Celtics game. Am not sure if his status needs to be evaluated because of his surprising play, oh never mind I would send him along with Rad, but the Rockets want more. Not sure Beans is the answer either since they have Yao Ming.
Rockets want young talent in return for T-Mac and that Fat expiring, AR is out of the question and that's who they probably want.
Yao's career may be over, so getting AB would be a nice replacement for him. The Rockets need talent and though they have been doing real well so far this season, thay are not very talented and seem to be getting the most out of all the players they have right now
Well that's a good point it does hinge on Yao's injury and how the Rockets feel he will come back. So they can take a the bait, I know it was a season ending injury, but if Yao is shedule to come back, Beans will be too expensive to be a back-up. So it does depend on the Yao factor, do you know whether for sure it might be career ending ? Also if we get rid of Beans the warriors need a solid replacement, am not a huge fan of the guy but he is solid enough with his hustle, and want that replaced.
Even if Yao came back, the Rockets could use Andris at the PF spot. I think that really is his ideal position. He is a really good rebounder, but he does not block shots or keep opposing Cs out of the scoring column.
Andris came into the league listed as a PF 'til the Warriors moved him to the C. You're correct Always, PF is his ideal position.
But they also have Scola and Landry who have played above average and offer more than what Beans would to them.
Also to add T-Mac makes 23 million, so the warriors would have to match that salary some how.
I actually think T-Mac has some left in the tank and could possibly play well as a warrior. Its all on Houson they are sitting nice right now, winning record without your two main stars, and the enticing expire of T-Mac.


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Reviewed by Brian Mullin https://www.gramslightbikes.com/
Occasionally, something a bit different, unique and intriguing comes along in the bike world, and one of that is the Vincero Design magnetic water bottle system. The system is comprised of a water bottle with a slot (female) on one side that has an embedded magnet, and it mates to a magnetized rail mount (male) which is attached via the water bottle bosses to the bike. The slot and the rail align with each other, and the strong magnetic pair keeps the bottle securely attached.
Vincero Design is located in Boulder, Colorado, and they have been designing and building products since 2008, and they are obviously a bunch of engineers, techno weenies and bike geeks. The system I tested, consisted of the edge 16 rail mount, and the s24 water bottle.
The installation of the system was simple, just attach the rail mount to the water bottle bosses with the mount's wedge pointing down. Fill up the water bottle, and mate the bottle slot and rail mount, and it's ready to go. I found that it was a tight fit matching up the mount's holes with my bike water bottle bosses, and there wasn't much wiggle room.


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No, there's clear evidence that the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine does not cause autism.
Autism – a serious developmental disorder that causes problems in communication, social interaction, and behavior – has been on the rise since the 1970s. By some estimates it might now affect 1 in 68 children in the United States. No one knows what causes the condition or why it's becoming more prevalent, so parents are understandably alarmed.
Concern about a link between the MMR vaccine and autism began in 1998, after the British medical journal The Lancet published a study connecting the vaccine with autism. The researchers were investigating the theory that intestinal problems like Crohn's disease can result from viral infection and contribute to the development of autism.
The study was very small – only eight children with autism participated – and has since been retracted by The Lancet because both clinical and biological data were falsified. The study, however, didn't examine whether children who got the MMR vaccine were more likely to develop autism than those who didn't get it.
In 2004 a much larger study in The Lancet compared 1,294 children with autistic spectrum disorders with 4,469 unaffected children and found that the MMR vaccine doesn't raise the risk of autism or other autism spectrum disorders.
Since then, many other studies have compared the incidence of autism in children who received the MMR vaccine and those who didn't, and have concluded that autism is not more common in vaccinated children. Numerous reputable scientific studies involving hundreds of thousands of children have found no link between the MMR vaccine and autism.
Most experts now think autism may be at least partly genetic and point out that there's no plausible way for a vaccine to trigger it. After all, there's no known connection between autism and measles, mumps, or rubella. It doesn't make sense that a vaccine would cause a condition that the disease itself doesn't cause, since a vaccine is essentially a symptomless infection.
Following the now refuted notion that MMR caused autism was the notion that thimerosal, an ethylmercury-containing preservative that was present in some vaccines (but not MMR), caused autism. This concern has also been allayed by studies showing that children who received vaccines containing thimerosal were not at greater risk of autism than those who received the same vaccines without thimerosal.
Seven studies have now examined the relationship between thimerosal and autism and have concluded that thimerosal-containing vaccines do not cause autism either. In any case, thimerosal has been removed from all childhood vaccines except for some multi-dose preparations of the flu vaccine, so it's no longer a concern.
More recently, some parents have been concerned that too many vaccines given too soon might cause autism. This concern, too, has been refuted by a recent study.
Read more about vaccines and autism.


text: In the days before Netflix entered our greater lexicon and even before the days of DVD's, my family used to find a good deal of their movie fix in the aisles of Glengate Video as we perused the VHS tapes for nighttime entertainment. Often, these excursions up to Glengate would consist of my dad and I walking up and down the aisles of wire shelving loaded with tapes that either had a rubber band around it (that meant it was not available) or not. Invariably, if one of the participants in the trip was my father, the tape that would accompany us back to the homestead would either follow the inane adventures of Inspector Closeau (which my sister "didn't get" while my dad and I laughed until we cried), would be some tough-guy movie with Lee Marvin, or had one or both of the dynamic duo of Paul Newman and Robert Redford adorning the front of the VHS case. While I longed for the likes of RoboCop, Aliens, and Commando (never really worrying as the guys up the street always had the latest shoot-em-ups), I was exposed month after month to The Dirty Dozen, Jeremiah Johnson, Cool Hand Luke, and my favorite...Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid. Where am I going with this? Watching this Indians' team rattle off 10 straight victories, I'm reminded nightly of the chase scene in the movie when Butch and Sundance are riding away from their pursuers, attempting to throw them off the trail by jumping off of cliffs and the like, but never able to escape the white skimmer hat that appears on one of their pursuers on the horizon. When the two would stop to see if they had lost the following group, as soon as they say that they were still being tailed, they would exchange forlorn glances and say, incredulously, "Who are those guys?" Anyone else find themselves wondering the exact same thing after each victory as a team ravaged by injuries, ineffectiveness, and ultimately trades finds itself as the hottest team in MLB? As this team somehow hits another gear, let's rattle off what's NOT on the field which was assumed to be givens for the season on Opening Day: #1 Starter (CC) #3 Starter (Jake) #4 Starter (Byrd) Closer (JoeBo) #3 Hitter / Starting Catcher (Vic) #4 Hitter / DH (Pronk) #7 Hitter / 3B (Blake) Perhaps I'm overstating the assumed roles of Borowski and Blake coming out of Winter Haven...but did I miss anything? All of those players are not currently pulling their Chief Wahoo caps on and STILL the Indians have the 4th best record in baseball since the All-Star Break at 24-14. The All-Star break, you may remember, started just days after the Indians "put up the white flag" by trading their aCCe to the shores of Lake Michigan. I mean, seriously, every night the question can be asked - "Who are those guys?" The Indians have the 2nd best record in baseball in August (18-7, behind only the Cubs' 18-6) with a rotation that "boasts" Jeremy Sowers, Anthony Reyes, and Zach Jackson. Their DH most nights is David Dellucci (who, truth be told, has a 1.056 OPS in August) and their lineup consists of a #3 hitter that started the season in AAA (Francisco) and their best power hitter who was a back-up when the season started (Show Pack). How is this happening? How does Kelly Shoppach have an OPS of .992 since the All-Star Break while SEVEN players have OPS over .800 in the month of August...and one of them isn't Grady Sizemore? The Indians have the 3rd most productive offense (5.70 runs per game) since the All-Star Break in the AL, all without Victor or Pronk picking up a bat in Cleveland. Given what we know about the importance of those two in the lineup, what's going on here? Are we seeing the offensive maturation of multiple players or are we just seeing a team get hot collectively, something that figures to serve as only an enticing mirage in this desert of a 2008 season? Certain things are becoming clearer, like knowing Kelly Shoppach's value is awfully high right now and the Indians need to decide whether they are "selling high" on him or this is what can be expected of Shoppach in 2009, either making him an integral part of the team or moving him to fill a hole via trade, and knowing that Jensen Lewis is making a strong case for being in the back end of the bullpen (in some sort of role) for 2009. But most of those things that are "becoming clearer" usually lead to another question. We now know that acceptable production from Chootierrez IS possible (Gutz's August OPS is .977, The BLC's August OPS is .936) for an extended period of time and that The Ben Francisco Treat looks to be is what he is - a valuable complementary piece, but not much else - Coco without the plus range in the outfield. But can the corners be occupied by The Frisco Kid and Chootierrez to start 2009 until LaPorta is ready? Given the power that the team gets (and assumes to get in 2009) from Sizemore, Peralta, Martinez, and (fingers and toes all crossed) Hafner, can the corner OF positions be complementary pieces until some of the youngsters start to force themselves into the picture? I tend to think that it can, as long as nobody is overestimating Francisco as a "core" player or assumes that (at age 28 in 2009) he's on the verge of something more than he is right now. The likes of Frisco and Chootierrez aren't that much different than having your corners patrolled by Coco and Dellichaels, which could certainly be upgraded; but if greater needs exist, this can't be the top priority, particularly with LaPorta, Weglarz, and perhaps Brantley (though all three are presumably LF) in the pipeline. We seem to be getting a better idea that Andy Marte is not long for Cleveland and that Ryan Garko's true performance probably lies somewhere between his 2007 and his 2008...which means that neither should be counted on to provide adequate production from 3B or 1B for 2009. What dominoes fall based on that notion seem infinite with the makeup of the whole infield in flux, with the only known being that (barring a trade) Peralta, Cabrera, and Victor will occupy 3 of the 5 positions when the team leaves Arizona next Spring. Where they fall figures to remain a mystery as The Kelly Shoppach Show continues on a nightly basis and as the Free Agent and trade markets are explored for a 2B or a 3B. We know that C.P. Lee is on an incredible run and hope that it will continue into 2009 while hoping that "Good Fausto" (the one that can throw all three of his pitches for strikes) shows up more frequently than "Bad Fausto" (the one who throws 100 pitches through 4 innings...with ½ of them being balls) next year. Beyond that, the principals in the running for the rotation need a longer look, and it looks like we'll get it as Aaron Laffey will join the rotation (to make it a 6-man rotation) in the first or second week of September. Now, should a strong finish by Sowers, Reyes, Jackson, or Laffey guarantee anything for 2009? No, nothing should be guaranteed...and Dave Huff (yes, he prefers "Dave", according to a family member who complimented my piece on him last week) is right in that pack as well (if not leading it). But Rey-Rey is out of options after this year and a decision should probably be made on whether The Zach Attack (or is it Zachson) should go into Spring Training next year vying for a spot in the rotation or the bullpen. Beyond Lee and Fausto, questions abound including when Jake Westbrook is thought to be returning from TJ surgery and at what capacity. Given what the Indians like to pad their rotation with in terms of depth, a middle-of-the-rotation starter should be on their shopping list this winter, if only to slot those young arms into the #6 through #8 starters in the organization so a Matt Ginter sighting or something like it isn't forced to occur again. We are being reminded what an effective 9th inning option can do to the rest of the bullpen while realizing what roles seem to best suit the Fist of Iron and the Fist of Steel, which would be as effective bridges to the 9th...not pitching the 9th itself.. Consider that the Indians have put up that 24-14 record since the All-Star Break with 5 blown saves in 15 opportunities, prior to Jenny Lew getting the nod in the 9th. There were 5 games that the bullpen has blown (Eddie Moo - 2, Betancourt - 1, Perez - 1, Masa - 1) since the All-Star Break...and the Indians STILL have won 63% of their games in that stretch! Now, has this 10-game winning streak allowing us to see what a settled pen can do for a team? Absolutely...but we thought the pen was relatively settled and stocked with arms going into THIS season, so the thought that everything is now suddenly fine with the bullpen for 2009 shouldn't pass through anyone's mind. While Lewis, Perez, and Betancourt are rediscovering their effectiveness down the stretch here and young hard-throwing arms like Jon Meloan, Jeff Stevens, Atom Miller (whose transition to the bullpen looks like a near certainty), and perhaps even Tony Sipp figure to be factors in filling out the 2009 bullpen, I don't think that even the most optimistic person could think that the bullpen doesn't need some quality and depth added to it. Certainly some pieces are slotting themselves for roles next year; but again, that's what we thought last year. All told, this stretch of success has been a thoroughly enjoyable ride as the lost season essentially has piqued some interest once again as winning baseball has returned...even if it is too little, too late. We know that this team isn't content to just roll over and wait for the end of the season (anyone else think signing checks is not one of Mike Ilitch's favorite activities these days?) and that some key youngsters are gaining (or regaining) some momentum for next year. However, while this stretch is exciting and seeing these young players excel gets the mind racing, it's important to remember what this team looked like in May and June and that a 2009 that could potentially start similarly will have the same debilitating effect on the season that it did this year. Despite the recent run of success, it's not safe to say that once this team is set once it gets Victor and Hafner back because they'll simply enhance the performance of a winning team. If the transition from 2007 to 2008 has taught us anything, it's to revel in the good times and prepare for the bad times to maximize the former while limiting the latter. These last 30 games could roll on in this suddenly magical manner that leaves us all smiling and excited for next year. But temper that enthusiasm with the reality of why, after a 10-game winning streak, the team is still double digits out of 1st place in a very winnable Central. Right now feels like the best of times...just as the playoff chase and run of 2007 did. Now, avoiding the worst of times as an encore is what needs to be in the back of everyone's minds as we revel in being able to FINALLY watching a team that consistently wins games as we try to turn "Who are those guys" into "THESE are the guys" that make this team a contender in 2009 and not another construction project.


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KW Variant 3 Coilover Kit 2005-2007 Subaru STI
Variant 3 Features:
- *1 = Front and rear height adjustable by threaded shock bodies
- *1 = Front and rear height adjustable by threaded shock bodies
- *'inox-line' stainless steel technology
- *Individual height adjustment
- *TÜV-tested adjustment parameters
- *High quality components for long life
- *Comprohensive documentation for ease of use
- *Independently adjustable damping technology - rebound and compression damping
Variant 3 - Race technology for the road with adjustable compression & rebound dampening. The new Variant 3 ist state-of-the-art technology for the skilled and experienced driver. The separate and independet compression and rebound damping options allow a truly individual driving set-up. These unique systems with the 3 individually adjustable components, allows for adjustment of the compression of the damper in the low-speed-range, while the highspeed set-up, so decisive for driving comfort, has been pre set by our engineers.
Lowering Range
- * Front: 0.8"-2.0"
- * Rear: 1.2"-2.1"


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Car Comparison
This or That: 2013 Honda Accord Sedan or 2013 Nissan Altima Sedan
Two heavyweights of the midsize family sedan class are completely redesigned for the 2013 model year. Both are claimed to be more fuel efficient and equipped with new safety and infotainment technologies. Additionally, the new 2013 Honda Accord Sedan is shorter yet roomier inside than before, with a bigger trunk than the previous model, and is offered in new Sport and Touring trim levels. Nissan says the 2013 Altima is more spacious inside and adds new zero-gravity seat designs, but the car is no longer offered as a sport-tuned 3.5 SR model.
In this installment of This or That, AutoTrader takes a look at the pros and cons of each of these popular new models to help consumers decide which one is right for them. Before we get into the details, let's set the stage.
2013 Honda Accord Sedan Highlights
The 2013 Accord Sedan is offered in LX, Sport, EX, EX-L and Touring trim levels. A new 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder engine is standard on all except for the Touring model, which is equipped with a V6 engine that is offered as an option on the Accord EX-L.
Among the 2013 Accord's many new standard features are SmartVent front airbags, a reversing camera, an expanded-view driver's side mirror, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth with music streaming capability and SMS text messaging capability. For 2013, the Accord can be equipped with several new technologies, including an adaptive cruise control system, a blind spot information system, a lane departure warning system, a forward collision warning system and cloud-based HondaLink smartphone connectivity.
2013 Nissan Altima Sedan Highlights
Nissan sells the 2013 Altima in two model series: the Altima 2.5 and the Altima 3.5. Within each series, Nissan offers S, SV and SL trim levels. The Altima 2.5 is also sold in basic format without a trim level designation. A new 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine is standard in the Altima 2.5, while the Altima 3.5 has a tried-and-true VQ-series 3.5-liter V6.
All 2013 Altimas are equipped with new NASA-inspired zero-gravity seats, an Easy Fill Tire Alert system and Active Understeer Control to improve cornering control. The Altima SV models offer hands-free text-messaging capability and Pandora Internet radio, while a Technology Package containing a blind spot information system, a lane departure warning system and what Nissan calls Moving Object Detection is optional for the SL models.
Fuel Economy
With stiff new Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) regulations looming and with consumers demanding vehicles that get better gas mileage, car companies are doing everything they can to increase fuel economy, and that includes Honda and Nissan.
Honda's approach is its new Earth Dreams Technology, which the automaker calls a "next generation set of technological advancements which greatly enhance both driving performance and fuel efficiency." As applied to the 2013 Accord, Earth Dreams Technology takes the form of a 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder engine and a 3.5-liter V6 with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM). The VCM system shuts off half of the V6 engine's cylinders under low-load driving conditions in an effort to conserve fuel. Both engines were named to Ward's 10 Best Engines list for 2013.
The Accord's 4-cylinder engine generates 185 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque (189 hp/182 lb-ft for the Accord Sport). A 6-speed manual gearbox is standard for the LX, Sport and EX models, and a new continuously variable transmission (CVT) is optional for these trim levels and standard for the Accord EX-L. The Accord's 3.5-liter V6 makes 278 hp and 252 lb-ft of torque, and is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Switching gears, so to speak, to the 2013 Altima 2.5, Nissan installs a new 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine under the hood -- one rated to deliver 182 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. The Altima 3.5 is equipped with Nissan's familiar VQ-series 3.5-liter V6, which supplies 270 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque to the car's front wheels. Both engines are paired with a next-generation version of the automaker's Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT). Paddle shifters are included with the V6 engine.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fuel economy ratings peg the Altima 2.5 at 31 mpg, while the Altima 3.5 is expected to return 25 mpg. Compare these figures with the 2013 Accord, which is rated to get 28 mpg in combined driving with the 4-cylinder engine and a manual transmission, 30 mpg with the 4-cylinder engine and a CVT (29 mpg for the Accord Sport) and 25 mpg with the V6.
By the slimmest of margins, victory goes to the 2013 Altima.
The new 2013 Accord and 2013 Altima share identical overall crash-test ratings, achieving a 5-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The only differences are that the Accord receives slightly higher protection ratings from the NHTSA for side-impact protection for the driver and for rollover resistance, while the Altima's ratings reflect slightly better protection for the driver in a frontal impact.
To determine which of these models offers the best value proposition in terms of safety, we'll need to examine standard and optional safety features and make a judgment call.
Starting with the car's underlying engineering, the new Honda Accord employs the automaker's Advanced Compatibility Engineering II (ACE II), which means the car's structure is designed to deflect crash energy away from the cabin in a collision. Additional standard safety features include SmartVent side-impact airbags that deploy at different inflation rates depending on front-seat occupant position; an expanded-view side mirror for the driver to help see in the car's left blind spot; a reversing camera; and the ability to have incoming text messages read aloud and to respond using factory preset messages.
Upgrading to the Accord EX, EX-L or Touring models adds a LaneWatch blind spot information system for the right side of the car, while EX-L and Touring models have a multiangle reversing camera, a lane departure warning system and a forward collision warning system. The Accord Touring is exclusively offered with an adaptive cruise control system.
By contrast, the 2013 Nissan Altima lacks a standard reversing camera, SmartVent airbags and the ability to receive and respond to text messages. However, the Altima is equipped with an Easy Fill Tire Alert system that makes it easier to maintain proper tire pressures as well as Active Understeer Control technology that helps to keep the Altima under control when taking corners on wet or snow-covered roads. Additionally, all Altima models except the base 2.5 are equipped with individual tire pressure monitoring and headlights that automatically illuminate when the wipers are turned on.
Altima buyers choosing the SV or SL trim level get a hands-free text messaging assist system and a reversing camera. A blind spot information system, a lane departure warning system and a Moving Object Detection System that identifies and warns of approaching cross traffic when the car is reversing are optional and offered only on the top SL trim level.
As much as we believe that maintaining proper tire pressure is a critical foundation for vehicle safety -- and we heartily applaud Nissan for its Easy Fill Tire Alert system -- we're going to give the nod to the Honda Accord for two reasons. First, people spend far too much time fiddling with their phones while driving, and the Accord's standard SMS text messaging capability supersedes tire pressure maintenance. Second, Honda does a better job of democratizing safety features, offering a standard reversing camera and making its blind spot information and lane departure warning systems available at a lower price point than Nissan does.
Honda and Nissan offer identical new vehicle limited warranty and powertrain warranty coverage, and neither provides free roadside assistance or free scheduled maintenance. The new vehicle limited warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first, and the powertrain warranty lasts for five years or 60,000 miles.
Based on reliability history, Consumer Reports says Accord and Altima models with a 4-cylinder engine are expected to provide "better than average" reliability. With a V6 engine, the Altima 3.5 is predicted to supply better than average reliability, while the Accord V6 is rated average.
In vehicle dependability surveys conducted by J.D. Power and Associates, the research firm finds the Honda Accord to be more dependable than the Nissan Altima. In 2012, however, J.D. Power expected both models to deliver similar levels of reliability over time.
Ladies and gentlemen, we have a tie.
In terms of price, the Accord and Altima are evenly matched. The Accord has a lower starting price because it comes with a manual transmission, while the Altima 2.5 is a de-contented base model designed to offer an appealing window sticker. The Altima ranges from $22,550 for the base 2.5 to $34,215 for an Altima 3.5 SL with all the factory options. Over at the Honda dealer, Accords are priced from $22,470 for the LX model with the manual gearbox to $34,220 for the Accord Touring. Accord options are installed by the dealer.
Where the value proposition for one model over the other is most evident relates to predicted resale value. According to Kelley Blue Book (KBB), the Accord will retain 58.4 percent of its original value at 36 months, and 46.1 percent at 60 months, making the Honda best in its segment. Additionally, Automotive Lease Guide gives the Accord a 2013 Residual Value Award for its ability to hold its value over time.
Contrasting the Accord's performance against the Altima, KBB predicts the Nissan will retain 55.7 percent of its value at 36 months and 39.9 percent of its value at 60 months. It ranks the Altima third in its segment.
Clearly, the Accord provides superior value.
Standard technology for the 2013 Accord includes Bluetooth with streaming audio capability, Pandora Internet radio, a USB port, SMS text messaging and a reversing camera. Additionally, every Accord includes Active Noise Cancellation, a hill-start assist system, SmartVent side-impact airbags for the front seat occupants and a Maintenance Minder system to remind the car's owner when it's time to have the Accord serviced.
Comparatively speaking, the 2013 Altima matches the Accord's Bluetooth with streaming audio capability, and that's all. But Nissan provides standard Active Understeer Control and an Easy Fill Tire Alert system, which are not available for the Accord.
To access much of the technology Nissan offers for the Altima, buyers must choose the Altima 2.5 SV model at a minimum. With SV trim, the Altima is equipped with a hands-free text messaging system, a reversing camera, Pandora Internet radio, a USB port, remote engine starting and a HomeLink universal garage door opener. Add navigation and the Altima SV includes Google POI and Send-to-Car technology. Finally, Nissan reserves a heated steering wheel, a blind spot information system, a lane departure warning system and a Moving Object Detection system for the Altima's SL trim level.
Moving up to the Accord EX model supplies a blind spot information system for the car's right side. (An expanded-view driver's side mirror is designed to show what's in the Accord's left blind spot.) The Accord EX-L gains a forward collision warning system, a lane departure warning system and cloud-based HondaLink technology that replicates your smartphone icons on the car's in-dash display screen. The top-of-the-line Touring model adds LED headlights and an adaptive cruise control system. Oddly, Honda offers a HomeLink universal remote only on the EX-L V6 and Touring models.
Though Nissan does make several safety and infotainment technologies available on the SV and SL trim levels, we prefer Honda's approach here, in which the automaker provides key popular features as standard equipment on all models.
AutoTrader's Recommendation
Take a close look at the redesigned Honda Accord and Nissan Altima sedans and it's clear that the two models are extremely competitive with one another. Safety ratings and reliability scores put them in a dead heat, and they receive nearly identical fuel economy ratings, with the Altima nudging just a little ahead. In the top trim levels, the Altima feels like it's a little more luxurious. However, the Honda Accord surges past the Nissan Altima in terms of overall value, providing key features as standard equipment and supplying useful safety technology at more accessible price points. Based on the parameters discussed above, the Accord gets our vote as the better midsize family sedan.