text:
Editors' note (September 25, 2013): The product reviewed here has been discontinued. Read all about your current Kindle Fire options here.
Editors' note (September 6, 2012): The product reviewed here has been discontinued and replaced with updated models (
Editors' note (November 23, 2011): After additional testing, we have updated the reviews and ratings for the Kindle Fire and the Nook Tablet since their original publication. For additional information on which of these closely matched products is best for you, see Kindle Fire vs. Nook Tablet: How to choose.
Since the publication of this review, Amazon has released several free over-the-air software updates for the Kindle Fire, including OS version 6.2.2, released January 18, 2012. These updates provide some general enhancements, allow a degree of parental control, improve the rendering speed, display width and navigation performance of its Web browser, and allow you to selectively hide items in the home screen carousel. We recommend installing these updates.
In the world of tablets, there are great products and there are cheap products, but very few great, cheap products. Fortunately, for those of you unwilling to shell out $500 for an Apple iPad 2, and wary of buying a piece of junk, Amazon's $199 Kindle Fire tablet should be at the top of your wish list.
The Kindle Fire is not the best tablet I've seen this year, but I have to give credit to Amazon for seeing something that no other manufacturer--not even Apple--was able to grasp. When you look at the gap between what tablets are capable of doing, and what people actually use them for, you'll find that most people just want to be entertained.
The Kindle Fire is here to entertain us, and at $199, I suspect many will take Amazon up on the offer. If you need a tablet that can keep up with your jet-setting, spreadsheet-editing, video-chatting lifestyle, I can point you to a few dozen better options. For the rest of you, read on.
Design and features
The Kindle Fire is a tablet with a 7-inch screen, giving it a similar look and feel as the RIM BlackBerry Playbook or Samsung Galaxy Tab 7. It runs a heavily modified version of Google's operating system, includes 8GB of internal memory, and begins shipping to U.S. customers on November 15.
With it, you can read e-books using Amazon's popular Kindle software, download Android apps and games using Amazon's Appstore, purchase music using Amazon's MP3 store, and watch videos using Amazon's video on-demand and download services. The common thread here is that Amazon's digital stores and services are all loaded and ready to go out of the box. In fact, there's no getting around them since they're baked into the home screen navigation.
Many basic features are covered, as well. You can browse the Web (more on that below), e-mail your friends, read common document files (including PDF, Word, Excel, PowerPoint and others), view photos, and listen to locally stored music files, without any hiccups. A common Micro-USB connection on the bottom of the Kindle Fire allows you to easily connect to any Mac or PC to transfer any content you want to take along. While you're down there, you'll find a headphone jack and the Kindle's power button. Flip it over and you'll find two adequately powered speakers sitting on the top edge. You'll have a tough time not covering up the speakers with your hand while watching videos in landscape view, but it's not impossible.
Software and services
For software, you're really limited to the Amazon way of doing things. You can download third-party apps, but they come by way of Amazon's app store. The underlying software may be Google's, but key Android features, such as Maps, Gmail, Calendar Navigation, and the Google App Market, are all absent.
The unspoken deal you're making with Amazon here is that in exchange for an inexpensive tablet, you're agreeing to get your apps, your games, your books, your music, and your videos through its services.
It's a benevolent dictatorship, though, and to be fair Apple runs its tablet the same way. Just like the iPad, Amazon seems open to the idea that offering competing services, such as Netflix, Hulu Plus, Rhapsody, Pandora, comiXology, and others. To see what apps are available, just head over to Amazon's online app store and poke around.
The other good news is that Amazon's services don't suck. Their music store is absolutely on par with iTunes in terms of selection, and their prices are cheaper in most cases. Amazon's e-book store is arguably the most popular in the industry and put the Kindle brand on the map. Their freshly unveiled Newsstand offers over 400 full-color magazines and newspapers at launch, which can be purchased as single issues or subscriptions. An overview of their selection can be seen on Amazon's site.
And then there's video. In my view, this is where Amazon's tablet really shines. If you're just looking for an e-reader, a low-cost e-ink reader is arguably a better value than the Kindle Fire. If you just want apps and games on a $199 device, an iPod Touch will deliver more content. But when it comes to watching video, the Kindle Fire's combination of 7-inch IPS screen and a one-click library of TV shows and movies (not to mention Flash-based Web content) is an unmatched proposition.
Under the browser's settings, Amazon includes the ability to force Web pages to either a mobile view or desktop view, which is handy if you abhor mobile-optimized sites, or if you're willing to sacrifice beauty for faster page loads. You'll also find a setting for disabling Amazon's accelerated page-loading technology, if you're creeped out by the idea of Amazon's computers predicting your browsing habits (they promise the collected data isn't linked to your account, but you can never be too safe, I suppose). On that same note, there's no private browsing mode on the Kindle Fire like the one found on both the iPad 2 and Google's Honeycomb browser.
I'm also a little surprised to see that Amazon hasn't included much in the way of parental controls on the Kindle Fire. Users are given a password option for the screen lock, and a password lockout option for the Wi-Fi connection, but there are no detailed controls for limiting playback of locally stored age-restricted material, or mature game content. Apple has done an exceptional job implementing these sorts of controls on its iOS products, and it's the sort of thing that would make the Kindle Fire much easier to recommend for children and teens.
To seal the deal, Amazon includes one free month of all-you-can-stream Instant Videos, including popular TV series such as "Lost" and "24," as well as popular movies, like "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" and "Last of the Mohicans." If you're already enrolled in Amazon's $79/year Amazon Prime program, this free instant video content sticks around and you can enjoy other perks such as free two-day shipping and Amazon's Kindle Lending Library. Nonmembers can still pay for content a la carte. TV shows are priced at $1.99 per episode. Movies can be rented for between $2.99 and $3.99, or purchased typically for around $14.99. Free apps for Netflix and Hulu Plus are also available if you want to venture beyond Amazon's offerings.
Amazon's cloud technology adds a key component to the Kindle Fire experience. Like Apple, Amazon will back up any digital media you purchase (e-books, apps, music) and serve it back down to you at your convenience. Being able to have instant access to your archived media content also makes up somewhat for the limited storage on the device (just 8GB). In addition to archiving your purchased content, Amazon's included Cloud Drive service offers another 5GB of storage any additional content you want to access (photos, music, documents, etc.).


text:
You are here
The Northern District of Texas offers a database of opinions listed by year and judge. For a more detailed search, enter the keyword or case number in the search box above.
The Northern District of Texas offers a database of opinions listed by year and judge. For a more detailed search, enter the keyword or case number in the search box above.
|12-41748 1701 Commerce, LLC 06/11/2014
|12-03227 Barry Hammond v. Adam Ross Paul, Inc. et al. 06/18/2014
|13-50301 Roxwell Performance Drilling, LLC 06/19/2014
|13-03066 Douglas J. Brickley, Ch. 11 Trustee v. Scattered Corp. et al 07-21-2014 07/21/2014
|12-10314 Robert Lewis Adkins, Sr. 07/23/2014
|11-50396 Rodney Wayne Wilson and Donna Lynn Wilson 07/24/2014
|13-01011 Mcloba Partners, Ltd., dba U.S. Gold Firm v. Robert Lewis Akdins, Sr. 08/01/2014
|10-50096 David Wayne Smith and Patricia Joyce Smith 08/06/2014
|14-3031 Cerx Pharmacy Partners, LP; et al v. RPD Holding, LLC, et al 08/06/2014
|13-3188 James W. Cunningham, Trustee v. Walter Young, Jr. individually and as named successor trustee, and Rodney Young 08/07/2014
|14-03031 CERx Pharmacy Partners, LP. et al. v. RPD Holdings, LLC 08/20/2014
|08-36705 Superior Air Parts, Inc. 08/20/2014
|14-30969 Mary Kay Matthews 08/22/2014
|12-10314 Robert Lewis Adkins, Sr. 09/08/2014
|11-02130 Walter O'Cheskey v. Herring National Bank, et al. 09/30/2014
|11-02014 Walter O'Cheskey v. Greystone Servicing Corporation, Inc., et al. 09/30/2014
|11-02130 OCheskey v. Herring National Bank et al 09/30/2014
|11-04017 Paradigm Air Carriers, Inc. v. Texas Rangers Baseball Partners, et al. 10/10/2014
|14-03007 Robert Milbank v. Philips Lighting Electronics North America, et al. 10/31/2014
|12-10314 Robert Lewis Adkins, Sr. 11/07/2014

subset: commoncrawl


text:
REGISTERRegister and receive "Ten Minutes to a Happier You" using the link in the upper-right hand corner of this page.
Book available at Balboa Press (click photo)http://bookstore.balboapress.com/Products/SKU-000525335/Journey-to-My-Soul.aspx
Like the Fan page
Wellness Universe Member
Tag Archives: GoChi juice
Feeling good is a Great Start
Feeling good is a great start to any day. What do you do to feel good in the morning? My routine is a bit much for most people but it makes me feel so good I actually feel as if … Continue reading
Posted in Abundance, General, Happiness, Personal Story Tagged activities, aerobics, body, choice, dog, easier, experience, feel good, freedom, GoChi juice, Happiness, heaven, house guest, magical, Meditation, morning routine, pray, share, sleep, soars, soul, spirit, start, swimming, time, tuned in, walking, younger 2 Comments


text:
posted by Eugenia Loli on Tue 15th Aug 2006 01:08 UTC
The long development process of Slackware Linux 11.0 is about to conclude - that's according to Patrick Volkerding who has declared the "current" tree as RC1: "There are still a few changes yet to happen, but let's call this Slackware 11.0 release candidate 1." Other recent changes include upgrade to stable kernel 2.4.33; upgrade to udev 097, and rebuild of glibc 2.3.6 for both 2.4.33 and 188.8.131.52 kernels. Update: Screenshots.


text:
Lake Area Designs Relocates to LaGrange, Ind.
September 19, 2013 by RVBusiness Comments Off on Lake Area Designs Relocates to LaGrange, Ind.
A new company that designs and builds custom wood molding, doors and furniture for the recreational vehicle, home-building and commercial construction industries is settling into its new headquarters in LaGrange, Ind., and ramping up for increased production.
According to a press release, Lake Area Designs LLC moved into its new office and manufacturing facilities in April after investing $1.5 million to lease and renovate existing buildings to accommodate its needs.
Lake Area Designs was formed when a group of investors led by Rob West purchased the assets of the former Lake Area Mouldings Plus LLC in Sturgis, Mich. The decision was soon made to relocate the new business to LaGrange to be closer to its customer base and reap the benefits of the Hoosier state's business-friendly environment.
Lake Area designs and produces custom wood trim, doors and furniture from start to finish through its full-service mill room, assembly shop and finishing center.
"We also do very high-end, solid-wood doors for home and building entryways and interiors, along with doors for custom cabinetry," according to West, who serves as president of Lake Area Designs. He said the company is expanding its residential products and services, and has staff members dedicated to working one on one with designers, architects and general contractors.
The new firm hired eight of the predecessor company's production workers and has since added 11 additional employees, making for a total of 19 current employees. Lake Area Designs plans to create up to 34 new jobs by 2016, making it eligible for performance-based, job-creation tax credits from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC). The firm will also be receiving tax abatements from the town of LaGrange at the request of Keith Gillenwater, president and CEO of the LaGrange County Economic Development Corporation.
"The LaGrange County EDC is proud to have worked with Lake Area Designs, which is contributing to the prosperity of the community and creating jobs for LaGrange County residents," Gillenwater said.
For more information visit www.LakeAreaDesigns.com or call (260) 499-3222.


text:
The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance program provides $5 billion annually to the states, which distribute the funds to businesses, nonprofits, and homeowners. Unfortunately, the states do a poor job making sure the money isn't lost to fraud and abuse.
Downsizing Blog
NASA's Feel Good Mission
NASA administrator Charles Bolden says that his "foremost" mission is to improve relations with the Muslim world. This head-scratching statement is made more bizarre by Bolden's claim that he received this instruction from the president himself.
USPS Wants Rate Hike
The long-term prospects for the U.S. Postal Service monopoly are bleak. To help stem the flow of red ink, the USPS intends to seek a rate increase. Only a government monopoly would try to raise prices when the demand for its services is plummeting. The rate increase will only push its already declining customer base to use cheaper, more efficient electronic alternatives.
Fiscal Commission Testimony
I testified to President Obama's National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform today on Capitol Hill. The Commission is tasked with creating a package of specific budget reforms by December to be considered by the House and Senate.
Selling Government Property
The federal government's real estate portfolio is massive: 1.2 million buildings and other structures with a total annual operating and maintenance budget of $19 billion. That's quite a carbon footprint.
Growth in Government Employment
The 1990s were a decade of rapid private sector expansion and federal government restraint. The 2000s are a decade of government expansion at all levels and private sector retrenchment.
Homebuyer Tax Credit Follies
When the 2008 economic stimulus bill created an $8,000 homebuyer tax credit to prop up the ailing housing market, the outcome was predictable: fraud and economic distortions.
Uncertainty More Than Anecdotal
During a recent CNBC debate on federal spending, I argued that government policies are creating uncertainty in the business community. Businesses are reluctant to invest or hire because they're concerned that the president's big government agenda will mean higher taxes and more onerous regulations.
More Concerns for FAA's NextGen
A report from the Department of Transportation's inspector general expresses more concerns about the Federal Aviation Administration's ability to implement its Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen). NextGen is a $40 billion overhaul of the nation's air traffic control system that would replace old-fashioned radar technology with modern satellite-based GPS navigation.
Ironing Boards and Trade Policy


text:
Well ... by "revolution", I mean the election results. And by "televised", I mean livestreamed on the internet. But ... exciting!
Bryce Edwards teaches over at the Politics Department here at Otago. It would be fair to say that he's been somewhat active in commentating on this election campaign. And during it he set up a very good initiative in the form of his "Vote Chat" interviews with various candidates, conducted in the University of Otago's broadcast studio and livestreamed over the interweb by way of the magic pixies who carry pictures through tubes to our computers. (You can go and see the whole set of those interviews here).
However, not content with dominating to a quite unhealthy extent the discourse leading up to election day, Bryce now has decided to expand his burgeoning media empire by challenging the dinosaur lamestream TV channels' coverage of the election results through a "University of Otago-New Zealand Herald online Election Night Special". And because I like to grab hold of the coat tails of those successful, headed-straight-for-the-top characters I come into contact with, I'm clambering on board as a co-presenter of this extravaganza.
Here's what the official announcement of our little experiment says:
Dr Edwards and Professor Geddis will host an "alternative" election night special – providing substantial but different coverage of the election results.
The University of Otago will be making use of academic and student expertise to analyse the election results as they come in. Lecturers and students from a number of different departments will contribute their analysis not only of the final results but also of broader issues from the election campaign.
The election special is being filmed in the Media Production Studios at the University, and live-streamed on the New Zealand Herald website. The coverage will make use of a variety of new technologies, including video, Twitter and other social media, to bring a comprehensive and alternative coverage of the election night news. There will be no commercial breaks, celebrities, or distracting graphics and gimmicks.
I wanted to add a few more details of the evening's fare to what I thought was a fairly bland description, but was shot down by the powers that be. However, they can't control the whole world wide internet, so here's the extra goodies that we'll be smuggling into our show on Saturday night:
(1) We will be playing, in full, the "Tea Tape" - without bleeping out any of the numerous curse words that it contains;
(2) We will be unmasking the identities of all those who leaked the emails that enabled Nicky Hager to write The Hollow Men;
(3) We will be revealing what John Key's position really was on the Springbok Tour (as well as photos of him in motorcycle helmet and brandishing a plywood shield emblazoned with "Avenge Steve Biko!");
(4) We will screen live footage of David Cunliffe sharpening his knife to an ever keener edge as the evening progresses;
(5) We will be reenacting the premise of Saw, with Michael Laws and Paul Henry in the protagonists' roles (if you've seen the movie, you'll know what I mean ... if you haven't, then it is not for you.)
So ... why not go to the New Zealand Herald's webpage (nzherald.co.nz) and drop in on us at some point during Saturday night between 7-11? I know you're all multi-media savvy types, not content with getting you information from just one source. Plus, there's always the ad breaks in the TV coverage ... .


text:
Hampton University's Jam Session
I haven't posted in a while as I've been completely overwhelmed with work on the Jazz projects at IBM. One recent development is a note I received a couple of months ago from staff at the Hampton University School of Engineering and Technology. They've been reading the Jazz Process book and are planning to incorporate it into an interesting project they've just launched. The project is called Jam Session and it's a collaboration between the University's School of Engineering and Technology and the Hampton University Museum, with support from the Motorola Foundation.
The idea behind this five-month project is to teach students how jazz performance concepts can be incorporated into engineering practices. Competing teams of undergraduate engineering, business, and art students will adapt jazz styles and techniques to conceive, develop, design and construct a vehicle, electronic device or appliance. I'm excited to be involved and look forward to working with the staff and students.
Check out the Jam Session web site.
The views expressed in this blog post are those of the author and do not reflect those of the author's employers and/or clients or any of their respective clients. Your use of this content is governed by this site's Terms of Use.


text:
product description
Related Products:
Arbuckle, Jim, J.S.
Fixed Blade Knives
Artisan Made
Chef Knives & Santoku
Stainless - ATS-34
Stainless Steel
Kitchen Knives
Maker: Jim Arbuckle, J.S. (click to see more by this maker)
Item num: 381
Blade length: 6.25 in.Total length: 11.25 in.Item weight: 5.40 oz.Blade: 1/8" thick ATS-34 stainless steelHandle: DymondWood� secured with German silver pinsStyle: Chef's knife
Description: If you spend any time in the kitchen, would like to have a knife that is as attractive as it is useful and don�t want the typical off-the shelf chefs knives, check out this beauty.
It utilizes a very deep choil (cut-out) for the forefinger to rest in. This makes the knife easy to hold onto even with slippery hands. The blade is made from ATS-34, high carbon stainless steel made by Hitachi. It is hardened and double tempered to about RC/59-60, then hand rubbed to a satin finish. It has extensive filework along the spine of the blade, which is not only decorative but adds a non-slip area on the back of the blade to rest the thumb. The blade is quite hard and takes an excellent edge. I recommend either a ceramic or diamond sharpening stone.
Availability: Not currently available


text:
It was announced on Friday that the coach had left the intensive care unit and will be spending a few more days in hospital recuperating.
Vilanova, who led Barcelona to their best-ever start in La Liga, suffered a cancer relapse and had to be rushed for an emergency surgery procedure earlier this week.
"I am sure that Tito Vilanova will win this game! We are by your side, Tito!" tweeted Ronaldo.
The Brazilian is just one of number of big names to offer their support for Vilanova. Guti, Gaizka Mendieta, David Silva and Rafael Nadal amongst others wished the coach well and hoped for his speedy recovery.


text:
CHAMPAIGN – Thom Dunning posed Monday in front of one of the dozens of cabinets that house the new Blue Waters supercomputer, a photographer's lens an uncomfortable couple of feet from his face.
"We've been far more uncomfortable," the director of the National Supercomputing Applications joked, looking at Bill Kramer, who led the project to build what is among the world's fastest computers at the University of Illinois.
They joke now, with the $300 million machine running, but in late in 2011, some feared that the Blue Waters project was circling the drain.
A big, $72 million building sat mostly empty waiting to house Blue Waters as IBM, the original builder, pulled out after essentially concluding it couldn't build and maintain the machine and make money doing it. A new builder had to be found, and fast, to stay within the timeline preferred by the primary financier, the National Science Foundation.
"We knew many of those people – we knew that when they made this announcement that jobs were at risk, their role in national science computing was at risk," said Barry Bolding, vice president of corporate marketing at Cray Inc. The company, known for building supercomputers, took over after IBM backed out.
This week, with about 30 separate groups now using Blue Waters, Dunning, Kramer and all of those people Bolding talked about can finally breathe easy.
On Thursday, Gov. Pat Quinn is expected to join Dunning and others from the NCSA, along with people from Cray and the National Science Foundation to proclaim a job well done. Blue Waters operates much like it was designed to do in 2007.
The plan was to build what would be, at least for a short time, the fastest supercomputer in the world. But more importantly, Blue Waters would also be able to sustain a speed of at least one petaflop – a thousand trillion operations a second, a long-sought speed that makes massive computational projects possible.
The NSF awarded the contract to the university and IBM, and agreed to provide most of the money, just more than $200 million. The university contributed $100 million.
When IBM pulled out, about $160 million had already been spent. And the NSF's deadline to have the computer in the building by the fall of 2012 was still very much in place.
"It was very, very dicey," Kramer said.
Pulling the plug was real possibility, according to Allen Blatecky, director of NSF's Division of Advanced Cyberinfrastructure.
Cray and the university were essentially told, "Convince us" it should continue, Blatecky said. "And they did."
The biggest worry, Bolding said, was whether the Seattle-based company could source the parts required for a computer that fits inside about 300 person-sized cabinets.
"I could name probably 10 things we had to juggle because they were late," Bolding said. "We ran into those over and over and over again, and each time we had to fix it and move on. ... We took huge risks that individual pieces might not be delivered on time."
It worked, and at a profit, Bolding says. The company doesn't break out profit information for any one project, he said, but its annual report for last year showed Cray's revenue – $421 million – and profits were up over 2011. The Blue Waters contract paid the company $188 million.
"It was a major contributor," Bolding said.
There is almost no end to the list of numbers you can use to explain what Blue Waters can do.
At a maximum speed of 11.6 petaflops, it is probably the third-fastest supercomputer in the world behind a Cray-built computer known as Titan at Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee and an IBM machine, Sequoia, at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in California, according to a website that tracks supercomputers, http://www.top500.org .
There are also those 30-plus cabinets – they sit on a tiled floor that's raised six feet to accommodate the cooling system that such as massive computer requires. Kramer lifts one of those heavy, concrete-reinforced tiles to reveal a ladder, climbing down and – shouting over the continuous, loud hum from above – shows off hundreds of yards of pipe carrying a constant flow cold water — thousands of gallons of it a minute.
There's evidence down here of how far along IBM was when it pulled out – Dunning points out a sort of long basket installed to hold cable's for IBM's computer. Cray doesn't use them, stringing its cables over the computer cabinets instead.
Blue Waters also has a 300-petabyte storage system. According to Dunning, "The amount of storage we have and the bandwith of storage we have in the Blue Waters system, as far as we know, is the largest, most intense in the world."
Thomas Jordan is director of the Southern California Earthquake Center at the University of Southern California and one of the early users of Blue Waters, a sort of beta tester.
He's working with others on a project to simulate the range of possible outcomes of earthquakes along hundreds of fault lines in Southern California.
"Our ambition is to eventually do this for all of California," he said. Blue Waters has, so far, provided a mostly smooth ride aside from a few glitches, he said.
Other projects are studying everything from how stars explode to how viruses affect cells and how contagious diseases spread.
They all amount to a great reward – and a huge relief – for Kramer and Dunning, particularly Dunning, who will retire later this year.
"It's very nice to have a big computer room that actually has a computer in it," said the understated Dunning. For a time, "it looked very lonely."
Follow David Mercer on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/davidmercerap


text:
Philly Goon "Ar-Ab" Details Being Shot 10 Times & Surviving!
"Ar-Ab opens up about getting shot 10 times and driving himself to the hospital, just three months after getting shot 3 times. He says that he's now paranoid about people driving up around him, because he doesn't know who carried out the shooting. While he was in the hospital Ar-Ab said that Swizz Beatz reached out to him for support, and now the two have worked on new music." - djvlad
Posted by @Worldstarvids
Please click the "Report" button below if the video on this page is not working properly.
Comments will only be displayed by verified emails. No Spamming or Racism.


text:
Local weather resources and topics.
Moderator: BayAreaKite
Re: Porn weather
Ah today was just one of those nice alameda days...shallow, relatively warm and nice wind! Needed that. is it gonna blow at the delta this weekend?
Re: Porn weather
Oh Yuri, first day I got some since getting back from Brazil...Sherman was sick this wednesday...Brenan was on a 7m and I was lighted up on an 8m...Can't believe it's ending for the year...but oh...one can still get some....
So yeah...I second the question....Saturday...iz we playing????
RRD, Mystic
Return to San Francisco Bay Area Weather Resources & Forecasts
Who is online
Users browsing this forum: No registered users and 4 guests


text:
Blood: The Last Vampire (US - BD RA)
Gabe removes his own hand to see if he too bleeds bloopy, lumpy black stuff...
Why would I have any interest in the live action remake of an animated movie series I didn't really like in the first place? Because I have a stupid need to see as many live action animation adaptations as I can, specifically lowish-budget ones. So far they're all pretty bad. Blood: The Last Vampire doesn't buck the trend. There's a story here, but it couldn't have been written down ahead of time, otherwise the dialogue would be made up of words, rather than broad generalizations of character feelings, and the characters themselves wouldn't narrate the back story like walking exposition machines. The 'plot' goes something like this: a vampire half-breed named Saya hunts demons for a secret organization on a US Army base in Japan just before the Vietnam War breaks out. I'm assuming everything beyond this was improvised. Or perhaps hiring a French director to helm a Chinese/French/Japanese co-production, staring Koreans, Americans, and an Irishman, is a generally bad idea. The on-set language barriers must have been murder, and it's likely the script was written in Chinese, then badly translated into a dozen other languages. The already wafer-thin, 48 minute source material doesn't help fill the gaps. A lack of plot or character intrigue shouldn't really be enough to kill a film of this type, but when coupled with weak direction, the outcome is all but sealed in the first half hour, which is creatively stilted to say the least.
Apparently Bride with White Hair director Ronny Yu was originally attached to the film. Despite one's opinion of Yu's more recent output, the guy has an eye for colour and action, and he's brought visual class to many less than reputable projects over the years. Fearless may have been a bit of a disappointment, but Yu mostly overcame a rocky script and a devastating structural flaw to make an entertaining film at the very least. The director's treatment of Freddy vs. Jason points more to what he likely could've accomplished with Blood – comic book colours, lavish violence, and action with a solid sense of geography and weight. French director Chris Nahon, who directed the reasonably satisfying English language Jet Li vehicle Kiss of the Dragon, does not appear to have any control over Blood, save his gorgeously gaudy pallet. The film's standout actors are clearly working from experience, not a director's hand, the structure is muddy at best, and the pacing is slow despite large sections of the film clearly missing (there are no deleted scenes on the disc, but at least one glimpse in the making-of material).
There's a possibly intended dream logic to the entire production that begins with the generally detached performances, and continues through stage-like physical sets, stuttering plot thrust, and the apparent knowing disregaurd for setting up mythology. One assumes some of the demon/vampire creature back-story would be refilled by future installments had the film been a big hit, though the 'story' appears to bring Saya full circle. Further exploration of the stuff around her would indubitably detour into territory fully covered by the Blade series, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and a vast ocean of similar Anime (most of it likely inspired by the extremely popular Vampire Hunter D films), but it would've given the film a nice anchor. Blood's disregard for logic reminds me of the first act of Alex Proyas's Dark City, where the fractured narrative is spit hastily at the viewer to create utter confusion. The problem is that the entire film works like this, and unlike Dark City there are no explanations beyond to broadest bits and pieces. Eventually it's strictly stated that the lead demon can bend perception, but unless she's had control over the entirety of the events the simplest explanations all hark back to a lack of imagination, or plain old laziness. If the dream logic was intended I actually applaud the filmmakers, and take back some of my criticisms.
The closest Blood comes to goodness are the long-winded fight scenes. The talents of action choreographer Cory Yuen are large enough to shimmer through even the worst camera placement, over-editing, and special effects, but Nahon and his other collaborators still put in the old college try. There is one clearly stated multi-character sword fight towards the middle/end of the film, which uses slow motion to enhance the more violent moments, places the camera in logical positions, doesn't cut the performers' movements to ribbons, and is shot in enough light to ensure clarity. The other battles (especially the multi-demon centerpiece set on the ropey city set) are messy, and frankly stated, ugly. Rapid fire cutting and barely motivated speed-ramping are utilized in an effort to create urgency, but the well planned, well practiced, well executed choreography is lost. The camera refuses to sit still, the stylized lighting blinds us, and the geography is needlessly jumbled. Stacked on this are some mind-blowingly shoddy digital effects. I suspect that the blobby CG blood was partially an aesthetic decision based on the differences between demon blood and human blood, but the best intensions don't make the slop any more visually appealing. The look is so unnatural it doesn't elicit any visceral reaction, unlike, say, the fountains of watery red stuff found in the Lone Wolf and Cub films. Even in an entirely computer animated film this blood would look wrong. The creature effects don't fair much better. I like movie creatures so much I'm often willing to overlook iffy effects, but besides being generally dull designs, the demons have zero heft, physical presence or threat, and they move like stop-motion creations with economical frame rates.
Blood: The Last Vampire is a distinctly weak film, but it is very colourful, and interested fans will definitely prefer the1080p Blu-ray presentation. The film starts visually quite strong with a subway scene that recalls the original Anime, and the majority of Steve Norrington's Blade with deathly deep blacks spiked by solid reds, flawless whites, and steel blues. From here the film takes cues from Ridley Scott's Blade Runner and the Anime again for Neon baked cities, and bright, bleached yellow daylight scenes. The colours of the daylight scenes are less sharply separated, but the gradations are still smooth. Dark scenes are often framed with the super dark blacks, then painted with solid, cartoon-like hues that don't bleed or feature any major noise. The details during these scenes are consistent, and beyond SD, but not super sharp due to the focal choices. For sharp details viewers should check out the somewhat grainier, golden coloured flashback scenes. The contrast is not as extreme, but the details are surely more impressive, including craggy facial skin, rice patties, and lush forests. The clunky digital blood effects appear even less a part of the live action than they do on the DVD version, and the lack of textures on the digital creatures are readily apparent.
Blood: The Last Vampire features an unsurprisingly stylized soundtrack, filled with all manner of swishing swords, whooshing demon wings, pounding rain, clanging metal, and splattering blood. The sound design, here presented in DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, is a bit thinner than expected for moderately budgeted action/monster movie, but most of the bits that count are full-bodied, LFE supported, and appropriately delegated to the most obvious channel. The good fight scene involving the old man dispatching dozens of ninjas is a great example of the value of balance on an action track. The dynamics are very impressive. I have complaints concerning the softness of some of the added creature effects, and the opposing loudness of some of the unmotivated effects. The sound designers use a digital skipping effect on some of the slow motion voices and practical effects. These often stand out pretty loudly on the track, and are odd enough to sound like a mistake. Dialogue is always clear (outside of accents), but the sound quality is unnatural, and the lip-sync doesn't match up, especially on the ESL performers, who may have been dubbed, or redubbed themselves in post. Concerning the score, I'm amazed at how quickly I was able to recognize Clint Mansell as one of the major contributors. Mansell is hardly giving a full effort, but his brand of electronica adds an iota of class to the project, as do the era pop music choices. Despite clear problems, Blood is a much better period film than Wolverine was.
The extras here are decidedly weak, which is really too bad because there's clearly an interesting behind-the-scenes story to the production. The extras start with a general making-of featurette (19:00, SD), which is mostly made up of raw, fly on the wall footage from the set, but is punctuated by occasional cast and crew interview. The interviews are tired, and uninformative, but the footage reveals a deleted fight with an afro'd dude in a meat locker. This is followed by 'Battling Demons' (17:00, SD), a similar featurette more closely concerned with Cory Yuen and his stunt team. The stunts look more impressive without the cutting. Besides a whole bunch of Sony trailers, the Blu-ray also features a storyboard gallery.
Blood: The Last Vampire features just enough style over substance eye-candy to likely please fans of the original Anime, which it's pretty faithful to, at least in as much as I can remember. I recommend the film about as much as I recommend Dragonball Evolution, though even with a single superior fight scene (one that apes Zyang Yimou so much it requires a banana) it doesn't have a Chow Yun-Fat caliber performance in the bunch. Dragonball also moved its plot along at a merciful pace, whereas even at only 89 minutes Blood drags. There's something here, but it would take another pass at the editing station, and a couple more render hours at the CGI station. I recommend seeking out the polar oppositely toned Cutie Honey live action adaptation instead. Actually, see them both, comparing and contrasting the two films, which are equally charged by style over substance, proves quite entertaining. Apparently comedy goes a long way with me, as I also vehemently recommend Azumi, The Guyver, Zebraman, and especially Speed Racer for those looking to quench a live action anime thirst. Fans of the original Anime will get something out of Blood, and the curious may want to try a rent. At the very least the video quality is nearly flawless, and colourful enough to give your 1080p set a real workout.
* Note: The images on this page are not representative of the Blu-ray release.
Review by Gabriel Powers
hogaburger Contributor Join Date: April 2007 Location: United States Posts: 1,153
I love all those movies you mentioned, but haven't seen Dragonball yet (honestly probably won't.) I may give this a rent.
I'd probably add the overlong and mostly boring Casshern, if only for the robot scene in the middle.
I'd probably add the overlong and mostly boring Casshern, if only for the robot scene in the middle.
Gabe Powers Editor Join Date: September 2004 Location: United States Posts: 4,721
Casshern was actually one of my first reviews for DVDActive. Bored the pants off of me.
Cinque Member Join Date: June 2007 Location: United States Posts: 710
Well, I agree that this movie was far from perfect, but still enjoyed it as a guilty pleasure B-grade Japanese/Asian/horror-action flick, when I saw it in the movie theater back in the summer. The loveliness of Gianna Jun and Koyuki more than helped make this bearable for me to watch. Too bad I couldn't find it at Best Buy on Tuesday, with all the Transformers 2 DVDs, Blu-rays, and Gift Sets lined up everywhere.
jp orestes Senior Member Join Date: April 2004 Location: Canada Posts: 1,081
I bought it just because I love the original or atleast really like it. Everyone has warned me to stay away from it but I went ahead anyways but I still haven't watched it. I sort of wish I bought the blu-ray but for $10 more... meh.
This review actually makes me want to see it more but I'll wait until my days off work.
This review actually makes me want to see it more but I'll wait until my days off work.
David Blackwell Senior Member Join Date: February 2004 Location: United States Posts: 2,835
I still want to see it. might just rent it instead of buying it now.
Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian
Disc Details
Release Date: 20th October 2009
Discs: 1
Disc Type: Blu-ray Disc
RCE: No
Video: 1080p
Aspect: 2.35:1
Anamorphic: No
Colour: Yes
Audio: DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 English
Subtitles: English SDH and French
Extras: Making-Of, Battling Demons, Storyboard Gallery, Trailers
Easter Egg: No
Feature Details
Director: Chris Nohan
Cast: Gianna Jun, Allison Miller, Liam Cunningham, JJ Feild, Koyuki
Genre: Action and Horror
Length: 89 minutes
5Review Guide
Follow our updates
Thrilling Reviews
Ghost In The Shell: Special Edition US - DVD R1 Mad Men: Season Five US - BD Scream Factory Cronenberg Releases US - BD RA Ex Machina US - BD RA Léon UK - BD RB
Released Soon
White Boy Rick US - DVD R1 | BD RA Night School US - DVD R1 | BD RA Hell Fest US - DVD R1 | BD RA Halloween (2018) US - DVD R1 | BD RA Goosebumps 2 US - DVD R1 | BD RA
New Easter Eggs
Star Wars: The Clone Wars - The Complete Season Two UK - BD Memento UK - BD RB Battlestar Galactica: The Plan UK - BD Moon UK - BD Star Wars: The Clone Wars - The Complete Season One UK - BD
Most Talked About
Halloween (2018) US - DVD R1 | BD RA Venom US - DVD R1 | BD RA Cloverfield Paradox, The US - DVD R1 | BD RA Suspiria (2018) US - DVD R1 | BD RA The Super US - DVD R1 | BD RA


text:
Fight On, Cass: Aftermath
Hey you! Reader! Want to be a part of the GREATEST COMIC BOOK AND GEEK COMMUNITY on the web?! Well, they're not accepting new members, but we'll take anyone here, so why not sign up for a free acount? It's fast and it's easy, like your mom! Sign up today! Membership spots are limited!*
*Membership spots not really limited!
Hey you! Reader! Want to be a part of the GREATEST COMIC BOOK AND GEEK COMMUNITY on the web?! Well, they're not accepting new members, but we'll take anyone here, so why not sign up for a free acount? It's fast and it's easy, like your mom! Sign up today! Membership spots are limited!*
*Membership spots not really limited!
by LOLtron » Mon Jan 28, 2013 2:52 pm
Fight, On Cass has come and gone. Was it a success? A look back.
I have to confess: I almost didn't publish this article. At first, I thought that the simple dreams of a fan to reminisce and give other fans something that the company that owns the character won't to be just that. I'm talking, of course, about the call I put out to fans of Cassandra Cain to send me their favorite moments involving the character. You can read all about it here. However, despite lots of people pledging that they would send in their favorites, January 26 came and went, and, everyone slacked out!
Then, the next day happened. A friend, after I told him about the lack of follow-through on responses, decided to not let this event go down without a fight. So here I am. Surprised, astonished, and giddy. To that I have to say: thank you, Kiarou.
So why did I do this? Everyone who's a comic book fan has that hero who they will read about, no matter what, be it a mainstream corporate powerhouse like Superman, Batman, Spider-Man, Iron Man, Wolverine, or be it a lesser known character who, despite not having the support and seemingly unlimited chance to find an audience that more well-known characters get, still has a devoted fanbase.
For me, that character is Cassandra Cain. From beginning to end, her run was exceptional to me, due to the growth she had as a character. Even through the rough times, when she was EVIL or badly written, I stuck with the character. Now, the character is literally in limbo, and, honestly, I think Cass has gotten an unfair reputation, with some going so far as to call her "toxic".
I wanted to change that, and show why there are so many that appreciate this character.
For me, the reasons I enjoy Cass, or any character, so much are the little moments. I'm talking about the moments that show a character's weaknesses and show that character working to overcome them. For Cassandra Cain, it's her inability to do some simple, everyday things, like read. For me two moments that reflect this stick out and will always make me a fan of the character. The first moment is from Batgirl vol. 1 #58 to which she tries to read a passage from Charles Dickens' A Tale of Two Cities:
It's a nice quaint moment showing her trying so hard to overcome her disability. The other moment is a longer one in Batgirl v. 1 #34. It appeals to both my love of Cass as well as my appreciation of Damion Scott's art and Kelly Puckett's writing. It's several pages of just Cassandra doing her training routine. However, what's eating her is the case she's on, which cost the life of a young child. No words here - just the emotion shown from the character. The only dialogue is from the killers between pages, building up the inevitable showdown between the two forces.
It's such a great build-up that every time it leaves me with a wide smile because the arrogant crooks got their comeuppance. But it also signifies what really burns at the core of the character. Here was a person who was given no life at all, no purpose but to end lives. In the story above, she's seen another child who's life was ended prematurely. It burns inside her until it explodes when she faces down the murderers. It's a classic moment, executed perfectly.
Now that I've shown you mine, here are the moments other fans sent me:
"The second fight from #25, mostly because I just think the art is prettier and I'm a sucker for pretty art lol. More than that, it really showed off Cass natural fighting ability and determination to always come out of top."
Speaking of other fans' favorite moments. Well, I can't list every single one like mine and the one above since those were via e-mail. There were many more moments posted via tumblr, and it's a little harder to quote every single person who gave me a moment from that. What I can do is I can post the moments themselves, and encourage you to visit the Tumblr link for further reading.
More importantly, if these images interest you, head over to Comixlogy and pick up some issues. If you want a reading list for the character, here's a good list to start off on.
Now, one of the numerous other angles of Fight On, Cass that I wished to achieve was to get some artistic talent (art, amv, fiction, or anything really) to contribute as well, allowing fans of the character to create their own memorable moments. Truth be told, this isn't even my idea. I frequent various places around the net. One of those places is 4Chan's /co/. One day, I noticed a thread pertaining to Cassandra Cain and moments we'll probably never see (the thread is long gone, but the ideas remain via here). I decided shortly thereafter: "Screw that, I'm going to commission some of these wondrous ideas." So I found an artist, Kiarou, and so I did:
I really should have known better than to doubt the resolve of Cass fans. I named the event, Fight, On Cass after all. In the end, the event rose to the challenge and fought on. I'm grateful for that to all those who particpated, and espically to Kiarou, who breathed new life into this when I was about to give up. If you want to continue to pour on those moments, go right ahead. That's what this article is for. Flood the Facebook and forum.
And for all those who participated: thank you very much. There's only one real way I can think of poetically ending this.
Written or Contributed by Zechs
by sdsichero » Mon Jan 28, 2013 3:21 pmYour movement needs a new name. Maybe Fight Undeterred Cass Knights!
by Zechs » Mon Jan 28, 2013 3:28 pm
Quiet you.
by IvCNuB4 » Mon Jan 28, 2013 4:35 pm
And the rally cry can be "FUCK this"
by Zechs » Mon Jan 28, 2013 4:42 pm
Does someone need a visit from me? I will find you in Chicago.. and I WILL BREAK YOU.
leave a comment with facebook
Who is online
Users browsing this forum: Google [Bot] and 35 guests


text:
Adeline Dewig, 10, and her button adventure led to the magical trip to Disney. More than a year ago, she gathered buttons from family members and friends in order to make and sell button bracelets.
The "family" business raised enough money to take her two brothers, Anderson and Archer, and her mom, Sherri, for a vacation to Disney World.
Sherri Dewig shares the magical experience
Well, our big trip has come and gone and it was truly magical. The anticipation was almost too much, but what an amazing couple of days.
We took off on a Saturday morning and headed to Jacksonville where my niece, Meghan, lives. We went to the Jacksonville Zoo and just goofed around, including a fun Super Bowl party on Sunday.
On Monday morning, we headed toward Orlando, but made a stop at Blue Springs State Park to hike a bit, have a picnic and look for manatee in the natural springs there. We had such a fun time and there were manatee by the dozens.
We left there mid-afternoon and drove into Disney World. That evening we got an early dinner and took the resort bus into Downtown Disney where Anderson had been begging to go to the Lego Store.
After about an hour of drooling, all three kids found a couple of Lego sets each and wore big smiles. We walked into a couple of other stores looking for fun Disney items. We eyed a few things, but decided to wait until we got into the park to see what they had there as well.
Tuesday morning came and we were up and out the door by 8 a.m. We were on the resort bus again, but this time heading to Magic Kingdom. The sun was shining, there were blue skies with not a cloud in sight… we knew it was going to warm up to be a great day.
We waited at the gate and started our exploration of the park as soon as the doors opened. I'm not sure who was most excited to be at the park... my three munckins, Kerry and David or our "pseudo" grandparents, John and Bobbi. We were all dashing from ride to ride to see how much we could fit into our big day.
I think, with the help our knowledgeable tour guide Bobbi, we were able to hit so many more rides than I ever imagined. There is always a crowd at Disney, but we really hit a good day.
I'm not sure what the kids' favorite rides wer,e but some that we made sure to hit included the carrousel, Dumbo, the people mover in Tomorrow Land, Buzz Lightyear, Little Mermaid (in the new FantasyLand area), Pirates of the Caribbean, the Haunted House and so many more.
The kids got to ride their first roller coaster, the Barn Stormer. They both came back smiling, but decided they didn't need to ride any more roller coasters that day.
We ended the day with a fabulous "Tomorrow Land Terrace fireworks dessert dinner. Talk about icing on the cake... a plate mounded with cupcakes, cookies, ice cream, brownies, truffles, chocolate covered strawberries... and so many other things I don't even know what they were.
From there we could view the magic pre-show light display and fabulous fireworks show over Cinderella's castle. The day ended with a stop at a Disney toy shop on the way out of the park. Hands were full as we loaded back on the bus home.
We got back sometime after 9:30 p.m. and one would think the children would be exhausted. Adeline and Anderson wanted to go to the resorts small gift shop at the hotel since Anderson had his eye on something and couldn't wait until morning to pick it up.
Wednesday morning we woke up and just relaxed. The kids wanted to play in the hotel for a couple of hours before we had to take off to head back home and back to reality.
By 11:30 a.m., we were heading home with a truck loaded full of happy kids, new toys and tons of magical memories.
Thank you to all who sent buttons, bought button bracelets and just supported our crazy endeavor. It's been such an amazing year and a half and I'm so proud of the whole family for sticking to their guns and making this such a great vacation.
On the way home, Anderson said, "Mom, I'd really like to go to Lego Land next."
I told him, that sounded great... you just have to decide what you are going to do to raise the money to go.
Looks like we are going to have to do some brainstorming for another fun activity.


text:
-CALLOUS- Hero Tuesday 12/02/2013, 14:15
This is a staff sponsored event that was advertised on the main page. It's also an official CC Circuit event (45th overall).
Event will begin at exactly 256 players OR within the next 48 hours, whichever comes first.
***This event is 1v1 the entire time from start to finish***
and therefore it is the perfect event for those who want something competitive with an opportunity for excellent prizes (Elya Cr, Tanaereva Cr and two copies of Blaaster Cr are on the line) without having to devote a ton of time to it or grind out games.
To protect newer players there is a minimum level requirement of 40 for this event as well as a minimum collection rating of "Hero". The entry fee is 1000 clintz, which is an excellent deal considering the prizes. The event is double elimination so you'll get at least two full matches in no matter what and obviously more if you're winning.
Spaces are limited! Join today!
Please don't forget to rate green.


text:
Spot Offers Off-the-Grid Communication and Tracking for your Truck
Spot Gen3
Stay connected beyond cell range using 100% SPOT satellite technology. SPOT Gen3 provides a critical, life-saving line of communication at the push of a button and custom tracking options. Make crystal-clear calls with the new SPOT Global Phone. Track anything, anytime, anywhere with the new SPOT Trace. Using the world's most modern satellite network, SPOT works wherever you wander.
Spot Trace
SPOT TraceTM uses 100% satellite technology to track anything, anytime, anywhere, making it the ultimate anti-theft device. Users benefit from texts/emails theft-alerts when movement is detected, customized tracking intervals and notification features, such as power off and daily status messages. A long battery life and line power option allows for online monitoring of assets on or off the grid.


text:
Memorable Moments in the PGA Championship
1921 -- The reign of The Haig begins
A 19-year-old former caddie named Gene Sarazen made most of the headlines early, but in the end, it was a polished veteran, Walter Hagen, who took home the Wanamaker Trophy at Inwood C.C. in Far Rockaway, N.Y. The young "Squire" upset defending PGA Champion and British Open Champion Jock Hutchison Sr. in the second round, 8 and 6, but fell to Cyril Walker in the quarterfinals, 4 and 2. Hagen faced former Champion Jim Barnes in the final and closed the match on the 34th hole, winning 3 and 2 to claim the first of his five PGA Championships.
1942 -- The "Recruits" square off
Against a backdrop of WWII, U.S. Army Corporal Jim Turnesa and U.S. Navy recruit Sam Snead, who was scheduled to report to duty a day later, met in the finals of the 25th PGA Championship at Seaview C.C. in Atlantic City, N.J. Turnesa, the underdog, went to lunch after the opening 18 holes 3-up, but Snead fought back to square the match on the 27th hole. Snead closed the match by holing a 60-foot chip shot for a birdie, claiming a 2-and-1 decision and his first major championship. It was the only PGA Championship conducted in New Jersey prior to 2005.
1957 -- The last match play Champion
Lionel Hebert became the last match play PGA Champion by defeating Dow Finsterwald, 3 and 1, in the final of the 39th PGA Championship at Miami Valley Golf Club in Dayton, Ohio. Hebert went up by a hole on Finsterwald with a birdie at the 32nd hole then closed the match and the Championship with a routine par at the 35th hole. The following year, the PGA Championship switched to a stroke-play format and has remained so since.
1963 -- The Golden Bear steps forward
Jack Nicklaus arrived at Dallas Athletic Club exhausted from his trip to the British Open, where he finished third and a stroke out of a playoff. But the 23-year-old got in the right frame of mind to bid for his first PGA Championship by getting 10 hours of sleep each night. Nicklaus overcame a three-stroke deficit to Bruce Crampton in the final round to join Ben Hogan, Byron Nelson and Gene Sarazen as the only men to date to win the PGA, the U.S. Open and the Masters Championships.
1972 -- The "miracle" at Oakland Hills
After making consecutive bogeys and then slicing his tee shot on the 16th hole in the final round of the 54th PGA Championship at Oakland Hills C.C., Gary Player appeared to have little chance of winning. Player couldn't see the flagstick, but found a chair from the gallery and stood on it to line up his shot. He then hit one of the most spectacular recovery shots in championship golf: a 9-iron that barely cleared the trees and a lake, rolling to within four feet of the hole. Player sank the birdie putt, then pocketed his second PGA Championship with pars on the final two holes.
1984 -- Trevino's final regular tour win
Lee Trevino, Gary Player and Lanny Wadkins waged one of the most exciting PGA Championships in history at Shoal Creek C.C. in Birmingham, Ala. Thanks to some advice from his wife, who told him, "Even though you're 44, your clubs don't know your age," and a new putter he purchased on a trip to Holland, Trevino emerged from the fray to claim his second PGA Championship. His 15-under-par performance earned him a four-stroke victory over Player and Wadkins, as well as the distinction of becoming the first PGA Champion to win with four rounds in the 60s.
2004 -- Vijay goes the distance
On a course that was the longest (7,514 yards) in major championship history, Vijay Singh shot a 4-over-par 76 in the final round, but was still able to qualify for a three-way playoff at Whistling Straits in Kohler, Wis. Singh made his lone birdie of the day a timely one, sinking a five-foot putt on the first hole of a three-hole cumulative score playoff. He added two additional pars to defeat Chris DiMarco and Justin Leonard to claim his second PGA Championship and third major championship.
James M. Barnes: A Champion's Record
"Long Jim" Barnes (ca. 1887-1966) won the inaugural PGA Championship in 1916 at Siwanoy Country Club and came back to defend his title in 1919 after the event was suspended for two years during World War I. He also won the 1914, 1917, and 1919 Western Opens. In 1921, Barnes added the U.S. Open to his record, and four years later he defeated Archie Compston and Ted Ray for the British Open crown, making him the victor in all three of the professional majors of the era (The Masters began in 1934). Upon completing the eighth grade, he became a caddie and apprentice club maker at West Cornwall Club in England, serving for four years before he immigrated to America in 1906. In his first major, the 1913 U.S. Open at The Country Club in Brookline, Massachusetts, he finished fourth. In 1921, he won the U.S. Open tournament nine strokes ahead of Fred McLeod and Walter Hagen at Columbia Country Club in Chevy Chase, Maryland with 69-75-73-72--289. On the 18th hole, Barnes was serenaded by a Marine band and became the only champion ever to receive the trophy from a President of the United States, Warren G. Harding. Several days later, Harding invited Barnes and Fred McLeod, the runner-up in the 1919 PGA Championship, to the White House for lunch. His Picture Analysis of Golf Strokes (1919), a best selling golf instruction manual, was the first such book to use still photographs on flip pages to give the illusion of movement. After retiring from tournament play, Barnes served as a professional at Huntington Crescent Club in Huntington, New York, and later Essex Country Club in West Orange, New Jersey. Barnes, one of the original 12 inductees into the PGA Hall of Fame, died on March 25, 1966.
Where was the first PGA Championship really played?
In the program of the 1945 PGA Championship, Jim Barnes remembered that he was the only PGA champion who had to win the event twice to claim the title: "Say, you know that P.G.A. championship record list is actually in error. I won that 1916 championship at Siwanoy all right, but that wasn't the first professional golf championship in the United States. The spring of that year, the New York Newspapermen's Golf Club put on a medal play tournament at Van Courtland Park, which they labeled the 'Professional Golfers Championship.' They put up a cup. I should know. I have it yet. I won it. My winning score was 276 and I think I made it with four rounds of 69 each. I know the late Clare Briggs drew a cartoon in which one fellow was kidding the other and advising him to go see Jim Barnes who might pass along a tip for making '69s. Clare gave me the original cartoon. I have it yet." Apparently, the Van Courtland tournament, played in June and widely advertised as The PGA Championship, inspired Tom McNamara to propose a truly national tournament to his boss, Rodman Wanamaker.
Early Twentieth Century Golf Equipment
The men who gathered at Siwanoy Golf Club in 1916 for the first PGA Championship played with clubs and balls that bear little resemblance to today's golf equipment. In America, as in Scotland, golf clubs were hand crafted and varied widely. Two important technological advances influenced the game of golf in the early twentieth century. Beginning in the 1890s, irons were stamped by a mechanical hammer instead of hand forged, which promoted uniformity. Additionally, the wound rubber ball, invented by Coburn Haskell in 1898, gained in popularity because it flew and rolled farther and was easier to control than the gutta percha ball that it came to replace. A. G. Spalding & Brothers, the company with which Rodman Wanamaker sought to compete, was the first company to manufacture and sell clubs in the United States. Though steel shafts were available, they did not receive a warm reception from golf professionals or golf's governing bodies, the USGA and the Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, who did not legalize them until 1924 and 1929, respectively. Most golfers had developed their swing to account for the flexibility of hickory shafts and were reluctant to retool, despite the promise of greater distance. Golf courses built in this period were shorter than their contemporary counterparts because the equipment did not allow for the long drives so common in today's game.
Hogan defeates his friend Demaret 10 and 9 in 1946
Jimmy Demaret first met Ben Hogan while playing in events around Texas in 1934. Demaret later recalled in My Partner, Ben Hogan, written with Jimmy Breslin in 1954, that Hogan had "played in the first tournament I ever won, the Texas P.G.A. in Dallas in 19334, and he came in about twentieth." Through the 1940s the two men partnered as a four ball team to win six PGA Tour events and eventually won two Ryder Cup foursome matches together, one for the 1947 and one for the 1951 U.S. team. When the two men met in the semifinal of the 1946 PGA Championship, Hogan did not allow friendship to get in the way of his pursuit of the title. Demaret earned a 2-up lead after the third hole, but then Hogan birdied the next three holes and at the end of the first nine he held a 3-up advantage. Hogan kept up the pace, extending his lead to 6-up by the end of the morning eighteen. In the afternoon round Hogan's 31 on the first nine ended the match at 10 and 9, the second biggest margin in PGA Championship match play history. When Demaret was later asked by reporters what he thought was the turning point in the match he jokingly replied, "When Hogan showed up at the first tee."
Hagen's Willow Tree
In the 1921 PGA Championship at Inwood Country Club, Walter Hagen played the seventeenth hole by driving down the parallel eighteenth fairway to give himself an advantage for his second shot. In his autobiography he explained why: "The green on the seventeenth was trapped on the short and left side, and almost at right angles to the line of play from the seventeenth fairway. If I played over onto the parallel eighteenth, I could open up the hole and come in from the right-hand side with my second shot." On the evening of the first day of the championship, while the golfers were gathered in the men's grill, several officials argued that a tree should be planted there to thwart such a strategy. Upon hearing this, Jack Mackie, the golf professional, and Morton Wild, a landscaper, uprooted a 15-foot weeping willow that they found in the woods next to the sixteenth fairway. They planted it to divide the two fairways. When he arrived on the tee the next day, Hagen quipped: "I never saw such fast-growing trees in my life." Not two minutes after his remark, the wind caught the wires that were holding the tree into place and the willow fell, opening up the eighteenth fairway to Hagen's drive.
Tiger Woods vs. Bob May
Earlier in the summer of 2000, Tiger Woods captured the U.S. Open and British Open titles, positioning him to be the first golfer to win golf's four professional majors in-a-row. He next needed to win the PGA Championship. At Valhalla, Woods and Bob May were tied after both making birdie putts on the 18th hole in the final round. Late in the afternoon, they began the first three-hole playoff in the tournament's history. On the first hole, the par-4 16th, Woods started with a birdie, putting him one stroke ahead of May. On the 17th hole, they both made memorable par saves, leaving the par-5 18th hole to decide the tournament. Woods hit his drive left, and the ball bounced off a sycamore tree, rolled back onto the cart path, and hit the tree again before coming to a rest to the left of the cart path. His approach shot landed in the left rough, and his third shot drifted into a green-side bunker. This was May's big chance. His drive crossed the fairway and landed in the left rough; unfortunately his approach shot found the right rough. His third shot caught the ridge of the horseshoe-shaped green, 40 feet from the hole. Tiger hit his bunker approach within two feet, and May narrowly missed his birdie attempt to lose the tournament by one stroke. Reflecting on his $900,000 victory, Woods declared that ". . . it's got to go down as one of the best duels in the game, in a major championship."


text:
Live Blog: Former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton
Hillary Rodham Clinton served as the nation's 67th Secretary of State from 2009 until 2013, after nearly four decades in public service. Her "smart power" approach to foreign policy repositioned American diplomacy and development for the 21st century. Clinton played a central role in restoring America's standing in the world, reasserting the United States as a Pacific power, imposing crippling sanction on Iran and North Korea, responding to the Arab Awakening, and negotiating a ceasefire in the Middle East. Earlier, as First Lady and then Senator from New York, she traveled to more than 80 countries as a champion of human rights, democracy, and opportunities for women and girls. Clinton also worked to provide health care to millions of children, create jobs and opportunity, and support first responders who risked their lives at Ground Zero. In her historic campaign for U.S. President in 2008, Clinton won 18 million votes.


text:
Trainer John Sadler had a predictable reaction when he saw Kobes Back had drawn the No. 13 post for Saturdays $750,000 CashCall Futurity at Betfair Hollywood Park.
I wanted to throw up, the Long Beach native said. That was a little bit of a bummer. I mean, Im not one to candy-coat it like, Oh, thats just the post we wanted!
Add the fact that Jerry Hollendorfer will be running Shared Belief, who looked like a potential superstar while winning last months Hollywood Prevue Stakes, and you get the picture. Its not going to be an easy task this weekend.
Sadler witnessed the talent of Shared Belief first hand on Nov. 10 when the son of Candy Ride beat Kobes Back by 7 3/4 eye-popping lengths in the Prevue Stakes and earned a 99 Beyer Speed Figure for his effort.
How high is Hollendorfer on Shared Belief? Well, after he beat a horse Hollendorfer trained at Golden Gate Fields in October, the veteran conditioner immediately put together a group headed by TV and radio personality Jim Rome that purchased the gelding before the Prevue Stakes.
Kobes Back really ran a good race in the Prevue, Sadler said. If you look at his Beyer, its solid. But he ran into probably the most impressive winner anywhere in the country that day. I mean, I know the speed figures and stuff like that, and that was a way faster race than anything in the Breeders Cup or anything like that. My horse ran well, but that other horse was just dominant that day. If you watch the replay, that thing looked unbelievable.
But Secretariat got beat. Spectacular Bid saw his Waterloo. Even Zenyatta tasted defeat. No horse is unbeatable.
Hes like Kobe, hell be going around two turns for the first time, Sadler said. A lot of these other horses have a little more seasoning, too. You just go on with your plan, and our plan is to get (Kobes Back) around two turns. Were looking forward to the race on Saturday.
Shared Belief will go postward heavily favored in the 13-horse field for 2-year-olds at 1 1/16 miles, but Sadler thinks highly of Kobes Back. So highly in fact he ran him in the Willard Proctor Stakes at Hollywood Park last summer in his career debut. Not even the great Secretariat began his career in a stakes race.
Sadler cant recall the number of times hes done that with a horse.
Very few, he said. I mean, a handful in a career.
Kobes Back, named after Kobe Bryant because owner Lee Searing is a huge Lakers fan, won the Willard Proctor by 3 1/4 lengths but came out of the race with sore knees. Sadler kept him at Hollywood Park during the Del Mar meet to let the horse mature a bit. They knew they might have something special and wanted a fresh horse down the road.
Sadler doesnt believe the Flatter colt will have any trouble handling two turns for the first time.
He rates really nicely and he always has a good kick so we dont think its going to be any issue, he said. But its still only the third race in his career so were still getting a feel for him. But hes done really well since (the Prevue).
Sadler also will start Candy Boy in the CashCall, a Candy Ride colt who broke his maiden by 8 1/4 lengths in his fourth start on Nov. 22 at Hollywood Park. Candy Boy is also owned by Searing.
We knew hed need the first couple of races because hes only a route horse, Sadler said. We sprinted him once just to get some experience into him. When he was second at Santa Anita (Oct. 12), I thought hed win that day because hed had a couple of races and I thought it would be his turn. But the Baffert horse (Tap It Rich) had a great race that day.
Then we got him over here and he won easily. It wasnt like a fast speed figure or anything like that, but he did it beautifully and I think hes a good prospect. I know hes very much a Classic-type prospect because hell run all day. He really looks like a horse for a mile and an eighth, a mile and a quarter, too, as we go forward.
Add Hollendorfers second colt, Del Mar Futurity winner Tamarando, into the mix along with Tap It Rich and Bond Holder, a couple of colts who acquitted themselves well in the Breeders Cup Juvenile last month at Santa Anita, and you have a CashCall Futurity thats one of the strongest in years.
Even shippers like Poker Player, Sheikinator and Rankhasprivileges cant be totally dismissed.
Theres depth in there, Sadler said. Its a good, strong race. Its one of the strongest ones Ive seen in a long, long time. Theyre going to close the gates here in another 10 days, Im going to go out as the fifth-leading trainer here all-time in number of wins, and I dont remember one this strong.
No matter what happens Saturday, Sadler thinks he has two colts that could be major players on the road to the Kentucky Derby next year.
I think theyre both good prospects, which is really nice to have a little depth, he said. We have two good ones.
Follow Art Wilson on Twitter at @Sham73


text:
The story so far goes something like this: in 1979, Gideon Gartner left IBM's White Plains HQ, and journeyed about 20 kilometres down to Stamford on the Long Island Sound, where he began sorting IT vendors' sales data.
He was by no means a first mover; back in 1964, Patrick McGovern had kicked off International Data Corporation (IDC), and made a small fortune by adding up and publishing sales figures from the then emerging computer industry.
By today's standards McGovern numbers were pretty raw, but proved a useful source of information for vendors and investors keen to compare their efforts with that of their peers.
A magic formula
However, Gartner's vision went beyond statistics. Armed with some powerful insider knowledge from IBM, he began sorting sales data into the psychologically more satisfying "magic quadrants".
Raw figures became trends, sales growth was contextualised into "hype cycles" and TLAs (three letter acronyms) were embraced and encouraged. Gartner's success lay in recognising that the IT industry needed a sounding board, someone with whom they could compare and contrast their own conclusions.
Fundamentally Gartner knew vendors would be willing to pay for the privilege of being talked to, and talked about. Tens of thousands of businesses proved willing to sign up to subscriptions in the hope that Gartner's idiosyncratic analysis would give them an edge when buying, selling and developing technology.
A decade later Gartner principal Marc Butlein and executive vice-president of research, Dale Kutnick, jumped ship and launched Meta Group a few blocks from Gartner's HQ. While remaining physically close, the pair set about distancing themselves from Gartner's pressure cooker treatment business analysts. Butlein and Kutnick then headhunted the cream of the analyst community, and made good on a promise of getting up close and personal with their customer base.
Analysis and understanding "The original concept they had is that there is a group of people willing to pay for a closer touch model," explains managing director of Meta Group's Asia Pacific operations, Mary Ann Maxwell. "We listen to clients when they say 'understand me a bit before you solve my problems'."
The approach, while necessarily niche, worked and worked well. So well, that Gartner is on the verge of buying its prodigal son back into the fold.
On 27 December 2004, Gartner quietly announced its intention to pay US$162 million for Meta Group. According to official statements, Gartner is looking to "bring valuable additional dimensions" to its research, "grow sales going forward" and "drive operational efficiency".
Desperate measures? On the face of things, it looks like a run of the mill acquisition in a business climate rife with such activity. However, scratch the surface and Gartner begins to look desperate enough to have just agreed to pay US$10 per share for a company which had been trading on the Nasdaq at around US$6.50, and had gone as low as US$3.01 just six months earlier.
A neat US$162m and Meta becomes a part of Gartner, but will it be worth paying a premium of 54 per cent to take control of a rival? Gene Hall, Gartner's CEO seems to think so.
"Gartner and Meta Group are both based in Stamford and share complementary business models, which will allow easy integration of Meta Group's offerings into Gartner's existing service portfolio." Hall said, in a statement to the press. "This transaction is an exciting opportunity that will give us increased depth in key sectors, geographies and markets, and an increased ability to seize revenue opportunities with the addition of Meta Group's well-trained, successful sales force.
"Reading between the lines, Hall seems keenest to get his hands on Meta's sales force, while the analysts are simply to be integrated into the Gartner fold. This would indicate Gartner's fundamental motivation for the acquisition lies in knocking out a competitor. However, unless he is willing to continue to run dual analyst offerings, it is hard to see how Hall intends to 'seize revenue opportunities'. No matter how good the sales team, they will be hard pressed to sell a single analysis twice.
Surely the world's largest IT analyst firm hasn't bought a golden goose, with the intention to smother it?
New alternatives
"If you're a CIO subscribing to Gartner and Meta, the first thing you'd do is consolidate your subscriptions, and look for a new alternative," says Clyde McConaghy, executive director of business intelligence developer Beonic.
McConaghy suspects we may have seen the last of Meta's "no fear, no favour" style analysis, at least in the short term. Having gone through a similar process as a board member of the Economist Intelligence Unit when it was acquired by the World Markets Research Center, McConaghy believes it is entirely possible to keep both brands operating as separate entities, albeit as rivals. However, he sees no indication Gartner is about to play such a ball.
"It all comes down to what motivates the acquirer, if it's money or the quality of the analysts they will want to keep Meta operating as a separate brand, but it looks more like they want to absorb the editorial team and set the sales force loose," McConaghy says. "Really it sounds like Meta was getting under Gartner's skin a bit, it had scored some hits in the market - that's not a criticism of Gartner, what they do they do well, but they don't do what Meta does."
Faith in market forces Financial analysts have responded to December's announcement with a simultaneous shoulder shrug, and pointed out in eerie unison that they only use such information sources as a point of comparison.
"We pay attention to the commentary provided by these types of groups, but only as background information," explains Alex Milton, senior technology analyst for Macquarie Securities. "It's certainly useful as a sanity check, but at the end of the day if we get something wrong we can't say we based our research on Gartner figures, because our customers expect us to source our own information."
Professing a predictable faith in market forces, such customers are generally satisfied that the estimated 200 IT analyst firms still in operation will provide them with enough diversity of research sources.
However, this may be wishful thinking, given the bulk of such firms lack the market presence to gather their own data. In actual fact most are SOHO consultancies that refer back to research from larger analyst groups, adding their own spin.
Bryan Fenech, director of Panthalassa Consulting, sees the acquisition as a blow to anyone faced with the challenge of the strategic implementation of technology.
"It is extremely naive to think that the service provided by Meta will simply be replaced, if the demand is there," Fenech says. "The market isn't efficient, it takes time for companies to build up a reputation, and attract good analysts. You have gaping holes produced by mergers like this, and the gap isn't filled automatically."
Not only, according to Fenech, is the Gartner-Meta acquisition a blow to competition in the IT analyst marketplace, he also suspects it will have a negative affect on the independence of available research.
"There is no question that business interests have an influence on the content of analyst reports," Fenech says. "Take directly comparable studies, such as the work both Gartner and Meta did on portfolio management tools in 2003. When you see Gartner give a company like System Corp a really high rating, and the same company didn't even feature in Meta's findings, you need to ask yourself more about the relationships between analysts and vendors."
Consolidation versus independence
Ian Banks, managing director of research group Ideas International, believes analyst's independence is particularly challenging given the nature of the analysis traditionally provided by Gartner and Meta.
"The more subjectivity there is the more independence is challenged," Banks says. "Which is why everything we do is fact-based. What our customers want from us is an independent assessment and a verification of, or point against, what they are hearing from the vendors."
Banks believes there is a healthy market for subjective analysis, so long as customers are convinced of its independence. However, market consolidation in the analyst sector is anathema to such independence.
"Meta was always more inclined to provide strong analysis, to nominate winners and losers, but it looks like the pervading culture following the merger will be Gartner's softer approach. It takes out a choice for end users, and this kind of consolidation will reduce independent advice, particularly in the Asia Pacific region, because companies like Forrester, AMR and Ovum have a limited presence," Banks says. "I suspect culturally there will be issues with merging the two companies, and it will be difficult for Gartner to retain Meta's strong analysts."
Winners and losers By anyone's definition, Meta's customer base, and those in the market for IT business analysis generally will be the losers in the short run.
While Gartner's stated intention is to grow revenue, unless it can come up with some particularly artful contracts we can expect to see a raft of analyst talent come onto the market. The larger US- and UK-based firms are clear favourites for picking up the talent, but they are by no means alone in the race.
In the mid-run it may well be pundits from the pool of mid-sized analyst groups who are best placed to fill Meta's shoes. If these companies can combine innovative salary packages with flexible work patterns, they will be ideally placed to crack the Meta formula, and get up close and personal with some of Meta's premium client base.
Twelve to 18 months out chances are Gartner will have difficulties adding Meta's revenues to its coffers, whether or not it decides to run a dual operation. The winners in this mid-run will be the next Butlein and Kutnick, who use what they've learnt to shake up the way IT market analysis is made and delivered.
And it is only the bravest of analysts, let alone the analysts of analysts who dabble in long-run voodoo. As John Maynard Keynes so subtly reminded us; in the long-run we are all dead.


text: The teachers I most respect are also regarded as 'a bit controversial'. Sometimes I wonder who is there, who is totally free from any controversy? (Other than the Buddha himself, that is!)purple planet wrote:I think this important to whoever reads this story and gets doubts - that he was a bit controversial even before leavingThat is why he was so popular with laypeople, but not with monks.


text:
Woodland based activties for children who are able to walk well through rough terrain to 4yrs
We will cover a range of activities some of which may be familiar to you as you may have done them as a child. Activities will include playing games, making bird feeders, making wands, mud pies, making woodland creatures, treasure hunts, mini beast hunts, natural art, den/ shelter building, campfires and much, much more!
A parent or carer must attend with the child; unattended children will not be allowed to stay at the session. This is due to Health and Safety and Insurance purposes.
What are my transport/parking options getting to the event?
You need to park in the layby along the road, look out for the signs, please park sensitively to other users.
What can/can't I bring to the event?
You and your child will need to be dressed for the weather so if it is cold base layers, waterproof trousers and coat, gloves, hat, wellys. Please ensure that you/ your child wears old clothes that you do not mind getting dirty. In hot conditions please wear sun hats, sun cream, and insect repellent . There are brambles and stinging nettles on site so dress your child in long sleeves/ trousers. If your child is allergic to anything or has health issues you need to ensure we know about it and you bring appropriate medication for them.
There are no toilets or nappy changing facilities on site, be prepared and go before you come! If there is an emergency let the leader know and they will advise you.
Where can I contact the organiser with any questions?
email: email@example.com
Tel: 07432611008
The name on the registration/ticket doesn't match the attendee. Is that okay?
Yes that is fine, please make sure whoever is attending has completed a consent form
What is the cancelation/ refund policy?
Please let us know if you cannot make a session, just drop us a text. If you do not attend for 3 sessions in a row we will assume you have left and give your place to the next person on the waiting list. We will give you as much notice as possible when we cancel sessions, texts and calls will be made to the contact number you provide us with.
The sessions will be running in most weather e.g. rain and snow, but in case of extreme weather events sessions will be cancelled due to safety. When sessions are cancelled you will receive a text or phone call before the session starts. So please ensure we have your up to date contact details.In these circumstances we will offer you a refund or you can come to the next session for free.
There is no permanent shelter or toilets on the site so please be aware and prepared for this.


text:
12:00 am
BBC World News NULL
12:30 am
NHK Newsline NULL
1:00 am
Out on a Limb OUT ON A LIMB explores the evolution of prosthetics and the exciting advancements being made at the intersection of neuroscience, engineering and robotics. A science story and a human story, this documentary shows the impact of this transformative science, as revolutionary prosthetics move from the lab to the bodies of amputees, and particularly to children with limb loss, who stand to benefit the most. D
2:00 am
African Americans: Many Rivers to Cross "The Black Atlantic (1500-1800)" This opening episode explores the truly global experiences that created the African American people. Beginning a full century before the first documented slaves arrived at Jamestown, Virginia, this segment portrays the earliest Africans, both slave and free, who arrived on these shores. Part 1 of 6G
3:00 am
Teaching Channel Presents "The New Teacher Experience" The New Teacher Experience: Follow two teachers in Los Angeles, CA for an intimate look at what the experience is really like. Many beginning teachers in America are given keys to their classroom and left to sink or swim in isolation, but, with the support of mentors, these teachers persevere through the trials and tribulations of their first year of teaching. D
4:00 am
Mechanical Universe And Beyond, The "Electric Battery" Volta invents the electric battery using the internal properties of different metals. D
4:30 am
Economics U$A "U.S. Economic Growth" This episode documents the GNP's greatest achievements and failures since its introduction in the 1930s. D
5:00 am
NHK Newsline NULL
5:30 am
Destinos: An Introduction to Spanish "Relaciones Estrechas (A Close Relationship)" This episode covers words for family members and a brief history of Puerto Rico.G
6:00 am
Power Yoga: Mind and Body "Long Holds - Version Three" With Side Plank, Charlie Chaplin, Supta Baddha Konasana, Camel. D
6:30 am
Clifford The Big Red Dog "Clifford Cleans His Room/Baby Makes Four" Clifford's good friends come over to help him clean out his doghouse, determined to get rid of all the old junk he no longer uses. But before long Clifford realizes that each item holds a special memory and can't be parted with. Mac thinks this is nonsense, until he is reminded of a memory in which he was included. D
7:00 am
Arthur "Arthur Loses His Marbles/Friday The 13th" When Arthur discovers that Grandma Thora is a marbles champion, he trains with her so he can beat all his friends. And though Thora teaches Arthur everything he knows, she doesn't teach him everything she knows. and it's Read versus Read in the first-ever Elwood City Marbles Tournament. D
7:30 am
Martha Speaks "Martha Speaks Martha Gets Spooked/Martha Changes Her Luck" Martha Gets Spooked - Is someone fixing up the haunted house? If not, who ordered those flowers? Martha Changes Her Luck - Uh-oh. Martha walked under a ladder-and broke a mirror-so now she thinks she's jinxed.G
8:00 am
Curious George "The Clean, Perfect Yellow Hat/Bee Is for Bear" Can George fix the hole in the yellow hat in time? No one believes that George has seen a bear.G
8:30 am
Cat in the Hat Knows A Lot About That! "Be Cool/Elephant Walk" Be Cool - Phew, it's hot outside! How are Sally and Nick going to stay cool? Cat suggests that they should visit some friends in the Dizzle-dazzle Desert to learn how to keep cool. They learn that some animals are light coloured, some stay out of the sun, and some, like Tommy the coolest toad around, just mooove sloooow. Nick and Sally take their advice, but Cat has an even better idea - run through a sprinkler! Elephant Walk - When building a toy construction set, Nick and Sally wonder if there's such thing as a one-thing-does-it-all tool. D
9:00 am
Peg + Cat "The Messy Room Problem/The Golden Pyramid Problem" The Messy Room Problem - Peg's Room. Peg and Cat sort through the mess in Peg's room just in time for company to come over and see Cat's masterpiece, "The Circles." Primary Content: Sorting; Secondary Content: Shapes. D
9:30 am
Dinosaur Train "The Forest Fire/The Lost Bird" When a forest fire comes to woods not far from the family nest at Pteranodon Terrace, the family takes the Dinosaur Train to visit a nearby area where a fire has already been, and the Conductor leads the kids on a Nature Tracker hike through the woods to see how new life is growing back - even after the forest fire's devastation. Buddy and Tiny ride the Dinosaur Train for a playdate with their old friend Petey Peteinosaurus, and learn that the train has added a new Aviary Car, for their various flying passengers. Suddenly, they are joined by a lost bird named Judy Jehelornis, who was displaced by the recent forest fires, and can't remember where her home is. D
10:00 am
Sesame Street "Firefly Show" Baby Bear and Telly have trouble trying to catch a firefly and must problem solve to figure it out. Educational Objectives: Cognitive Reasoning. D
11:00 am
Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood "Daniel Uses His Words/All Aboard!" Daniel Uses his Words: Daniel is playing "farm" today, but when Mom Tiger is cleaning up, she accidentally ruins Daniel's game. Grrr! Mom teaches Daniel to express his feelings so she can understand why he is upset. Once Daniel uses his words, Mom helps him rebuild his farm. D
11:30 am
Sid The Science Kid "The Big Cheese!" While surfing the Internet on the computer with his Mom, Sid finds a funny picture showing that the moon is made of green, glowing, cheese! Sid thinks this is amazing, and when he goes to school, he relays his newfound moon information to his friends, who are equally enthralled. When they tell Susie what they learned, Susie explains something very important-not everything you find on the computer is true! And someone that really understands that notion is visiting today, it's Gabriela's Mom! Dr. Rosalinda Cordova is a marine biologist so she does lots of research on the computer, but it's not the only thing she uses. She tells the kids that when she does research, she reads books at the library, makes observations, asks experts, and looks at websites with good information. D
12:00 pm
Super Why! "George and the Dragon" FE FI FO FUM! The Giant has stepped on Pig's toy, and he's scared to ask for it back! The super readers venture into a classic tale to meet intrepid Knight George, who is about to face his own fears and battle a dragon to rescue a princess! But it turns out that George isn't quite so brave, and needs a little help.from an unexpected source! Educational Objectives: To learn to appreciate where you're from. Kids will experiment with the alphabet, celebrate spelling and use the power to read to change the story. D
12:30 pm
Caillou "Surprise Caillou!" Butterfly Surprise: Caillou is disappointed to learn his class trip to the fire station is cancelled.and they're going to a butterfly conservatory instead. Caillou thinks butterflies are boring. D
1:00 pm
Thomas & Friends "Sounds and Smells" O the Indignity - Gordon is horrified when Sir Topham Hatt announces that he is to take charge of Whiff's Waste Dump for the day. Gordon arrives at the Waste Dump and decides that the only thing for him to do is to hide when other engines arrive at the dump. Gordon just cannot be seen at such a smelly place! As the day progresses, Gordon hides from Spencer, Diesel and Thomas. D
1:30 pm
Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood "Daniel Uses His Words/All Aboard!" Daniel Uses his Words: Daniel is playing "farm" today, but when Mom Tiger is cleaning up, she accidentally ruins Daniel's game. Grrr! Mom teaches Daniel to express his feelings so she can understand why he is upset. Once Daniel uses his words, Mom helps him rebuild his farm. D
2:00 pm
Curious George "The Clean, Perfect Yellow Hat/Bee Is for Bear" Can George fix the hole in the yellow hat in time? No one believes that George has seen a bear.G
2:30 pm
Martha Speaks "Martha Speaks Martha Gets Spooked/Martha Changes Her Luck" Martha Gets Spooked - Is someone fixing up the haunted house? If not, who ordered those flowers? Martha Changes Her Luck - Uh-oh. Martha walked under a ladder-and broke a mirror-so now she thinks she's jinxed.G
3:00 pm
Peg + Cat "The Messy Room Problem/The Golden Pyramid Problem" The Messy Room Problem - Peg's Room. Peg and Cat sort through the mess in Peg's room just in time for company to come over and see Cat's masterpiece, "The Circles." Primary Content: Sorting; Secondary Content: Shapes. D
3:30 pm
WordGirl "Of Two Minds/Yes Monkey" OF TWO MINDS - It looks as though Dr. Two Brains has given up his cheese-stealing ways and decided to go straight. It's true, he's not stealing cheese anymore because he's discovered a giant cheese asteroid and has used his cheese seizer to redirect its path straight towards Earth! Will WordGirl convince him to change his mind in time to save Earth from being covered in cheese? Vocabulary Words: Waver, Vast. YES MONKEY - When Leslie resigns as Mr. Big's assistant, he goes out in search of a new one. D
4:00 pm
Wild Kratts "Attack of the Tree Eating Aliens" The Wild Kratts get an urgent call from a group of North American Wild Kratts kids telling them almost all of the trees in the forest are dying. It's a race against time to solve the mystery and help the forest and the creatures who live there. D
4:30 pm
Cyberchase "R-Fair City" Disguised as a gypsy, Hacker lures Digit to a fantastic cyber amusement park and holds him captive. When the kids arrive, they analyze the games of chance, figuring out which games are fair and which ones are not, and use what they learn to find Hacker and beat him at his own game before it's too late! The Big Idea: A game of chance is fair when nobody can tell who will win, but everyone has the same chance of being a winner.G
5:00 pm
Fetch! With Ruff Ruffman "Finding Eight-Legged Tights Isn't Easy" It turns out that Ruff has two phobias: spiders and.ballet! Ruff sends Sterling and Bethany (someone else who shares his fear of spiders) out to meet an arachnologist to work in a spider lab, and gives Brian another daunting assignment-to become a ballet dancer!. D
5:30 pm
Nightly Business Report Tonight on Nightly Business Report, who's really at fault for the botched rollout of the new health exchanges? Developers pointed fingers on Capitol Hill and tonight NBR will ask a former White House Health Care Advisor if he thinks the problems can be fixed. And, NBR will meet Wall Street's new sheriff, responsible for numerous new bank fines and find out how he's changing the way some big institutions do business. D
5:56 pm
NewsHour Promo NULL
6:00 pm
PBS NewsHour NULL
7:00 pm
Doc Martin "Uneasy Lies The Head" Louisa is hired to teach at the local school while Martin still struggles with the news of her pregnancy. The school's headmaster comes to Martin for medical assistance, and Louisa discovers that Edith is to be her doctor.G
8:00 pm
Outdoor Idaho "Summit Idaho" Cameras capture four groups of mountain climbers who reach the summits of four Idaho mountain peaks - Vienna Peak in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Gilmore Peak in the Lemhi Mountain Range, He Devil in the Seven Devils Mountains, and Scotchman Peak in Scotchman Peaks of the Panhandle. The steep assents in winter and summer culminate in magnificent views of four different Idaho terrains.G
8:30 pm
Art Wolfe's Travels to the Edge "Peru: Manu" In the largest area of protected rainforest in the Amazon, Art encounters spectacular birds, animals and peoples of the Amazon - all struggling to survive.G
9:00 pm
Midsomer Murders "Worm in the Bud, Part 1" When the body of a farmer's wife is discovered in Setwale Wood, villagers assume she committed suicide due to her inability to have a child. But when Barnaby discovers the timestamp on her suicide is from seven hours after her death, the case morphs into a hunt for a killer. Part 1 of 2G
10:00 pm
Death In Paradise With a hurricane approaching, the team is called to investigate the murder of a young meteorologist. Suspects conveniently have photographic data to back up their alibis. A rubber duck at the scene, no evidence of the scientist's work, and the timed photographs are the only clues.G
11:00 pm
Charlie Rose NULL