text:
- Some connections were obviously bogus and I rejected them outright.
- In other cases, there was well documented research online, sometimes including extensive databases that were regularly updated and even discussions among different researchers who hammered out various arguments for and against making specific connections. Many of the supporting documents had been put online. I did not deem it necessary to duplicate these efforts and instead focused on family lines that had not really been researched to a significant extent.
- For other lines, the material that was online was not comprehensive or conclusive, but did seem to point in a particular direction.
- And in the last category, the connections were plausible enough, but I could not find compelling arguments or evidence to nail down the connection.
Friday, December 28, 2012
Why I'm Creating a Junk Tree on Ancestry
15 comments:
Nicely done. What some may call a "junk" tree, others of us call early research leads. After being hacked, I am rebuilding our TNG website. I have uploaded my full RootsMagic GEDCOM. It has unconfirmed connections and people who have been pulled from undocumented online trees. This is my research locker, filled with people and connections who are waiting to be either confirmed or rejected. Of course, that probably gives me 10 or 15 years of work to do.
ReplyDeleteNicely done. What some may call a "junk" tree, others of us call early research leads. After being hacked, I am rebuilding our TNG website. I have uploaded my full RootsMagic GEDCOM. It has unconfirmed connections and people who have been pulled from undocumented online trees. This is my research locker, filled with people and connections who are waiting to be either confirmed or rejected. Of course, that probably gives me 10 or 15 years of work to do.
ReplyDeleteI admire your work and research in using your DNA results. I wish I were as motivated, but I'd be using only my dad's and aunt's results, so my entire maternal line is missing there, as I have not taken a test.
I think it will be very cool to watch this unfold for you.
Dee at Shakin' the Family TreeRepliesThanks, Dee! I think having DNA tests on one side is very useful (especially when more than one person has tested), as you can focus just on those lines; if you eventually take the test, you will have a good instrument for dividing up your matches. The process may look pretty tedious, but I have to admit to being a bit of a statistics geek.
Greta, I am doing the same with my "DNA tree." I have DNA connections that match branches that I am sure belong in my tree- I just don't have enough documentation to support the branches. Glad to read that you have been lead down the same path and are handling it this way also.
ReplyDeleteRepliesHi Jody - Thank you for your kind comments. It's funny - I'd bet before getting into the DNA side of genealogy neither one of us would have considered doing something like this. Even if the particular family where we connect with our matches is not quite right, we can hope that a combination of research and further DNA results will point us in the right direction.
What a great post - and I love Bart's terminology "research locker". I always hesitate to even talk about my tree on Ancestry, because it's a mis-mash of things...things that are possibilities, thing that I want to follow up on etc. I'm much more selective about what goes into by database, but for me Ancestry is my playground.
Good luck with your DNA searching - I really want to understand this better, but haven't yet done much with it. It was very helpful to read what you are doing to pursue these leads.RepliesThank you, Diana - I also found Bart's "research locker" to be a very apt and useful term. And I agree that it's important for one of our "tree" databases - Ancestry, personal program, whatever - to be an area where we can include our own speculations and even those of other researchers. Hope I can continue to "work" the DNA angle to help my research, because some of these lines can definitely use the help!
- AnonymousJanuary 7, 2013 at 6:54 AM
While I haven't yet done this for DNA results I have had great success using temporary "research" trees on Ancestry.com over the past several months.
I'll typically create a research tree to sketch out a new family member or branch that I'm trying to prove/disprove. Using the leaf hints I gather additional information that I may not already have and connections to trees created by other members. I can then aggregate all this data to see whether I can prove (at least up to Gen. Proof. Stds.) that this is a valid connection (or not).
When I'm done I'll either add the new members and data to my tree (if proven) or discard the old tree if a relation was inconclusive.


text:
This sub-project aims to organize genealogical data on the Garchitorena Family of the Philippines. Profiles here are those of historical figures, scions of the gentry (de buena familia), revolutionary heroes, scholars, government officials, national athletes and other public personalities (celebrities) in various fields. Find more surnames at the master project page, Families of the Philippines.
How to Contribute
- Please click the "Join Project" button on the upper right of the project page.
- After getting yourself added as a collaborator for the surname, select the profile of the prominent Filipino you wish to add.
- Navigate to the profile. Under the "More Actions" link, choose "Add to Project" and select sub-project to which your ancestor should be included in.
- Include in the "About Me" section a brief biographical sketch, summarizing the person's significant contributions and accomplishments. (Required)
- Include a photograph, if one exists.
- Mark the profile as "public" and not "private". (Required)

subset: commoncrawl


text:
[brightly] "So let's just get started, shall we?
"First of all, you should note that I often use the words 'ice' and 'frost' interchangeably. So you brown-nosing idiots with the bags of ice can just go dump those in the sink. Yes, now. Thank you.
"Okey dokey, I will now hold up the results of yesterday's pop quiz and mock you each accordingly. And since I can't be bothered to remember your names, I've assigned you each a nickname based on the individual horrors of what I will laughingly call your 'cakes.'
"Let's start with you, Mr. Gap-Cracky."
"Yes, you. Your name is now 'Mr. Gap-Cracky' because I've seen less gaping holes in some of your hipster friends' jeans. Ever heard of a spatula? Or do you coil all your icing at home?
"Oh, be quiet; that was rhetorical.
"Next up is Ruffles."
"My dear, how is it that you managed to change the colors of your icing, but not the tip on your pastry bag? Is that leaf tip glued in place? Or are you just sentimentally attached to making really, really ugly things?
"Oh, you think that's funny, Stegosaurus? How about we look at *your* cake?
"Do you know why your nickname is 'Stegosaurus,' son? No? It's because the Stegosaurus has a brain the size of a walnut. What'd you, spread this with your feet?
[rubbing temples] "And next we have Sprinkles."
[sighing] "I would lambaste you with a withering criticism, Sprinkles, but I can see from your vacant expression that intelligent thought is lost on you. So just give me your sprinkles jar and go sit in the back. Go on. There's a good boy.
"I have to hand it to you, Ms. Puff n' Stuff; if I hadn't cut into your cake I might not have discovered your deception:
"Gopher guts, girl, I've seen meringue pies with less filling! What are you, some kind of plant sent by an insulin manufacturer? Are you trying to kill us all?
"What's that? You like icing? Well, Duncan Hines, girl, *I* like my pancreas. You think we can reach some kind of compromise that doesn't include me in diabetic shock? Hm?
"And finally, for your final classmate, I'm afraid I ran out of clever nicknames.
"So I'm just going to call you Crap Pile, son. Judging by this cake, I'm sure you're accustomed to answering to much worse.
[bell rings]
"Ok, class, time for you to get back to your bakeries and ruining the happy occasions of cake lovers everywhere. Have fun. I'll just be here, weeping for your clients."
Hey, Courtney H., Kristi R., Gaye E., Jennette F., Jennifer V., & Val S., check it out; apparently the good teacher here also moonlights as a therapist:


text:
Indonesia is an archipelago in Southeast Asia consisting of 17,000 islands (6,000 inhabited) and straddling the equator. The largest islands are Sumatra, Java (the most populous), Bali, Kalimantan (Indonesia's part of Borneo), Sulawesi (Celebes), the Nusa Tenggara islands, the Moluccas Islands, and Irian Jaya (also called West Papua), the western part of New Guinea. Its neighbor to the north is Malaysia and to the east is Papua New Guinea.
Indonesia, part of the "ring of fire," has the largest number of active volcanoes in the world. Earthquakes are frequent. Wallace's line, a zoological demarcation between Asian and Australian flora and fauna, divides Indonesia.
The 17,000 islands that make up Indonesia were home to a diversity of cultures and indigenous beliefs when the islands came under the influence of Hindu priests and traders in the first and second centuries A.D. Muslim invasions began in the 13th century, and most of the archipelago had converted to Islam by the 15th century. Portuguese traders arrived early in the next century but were ousted by the Dutch around 1595. The Dutch United East India Company established posts on the island of Java, in an effort to control the spice trade.
After Napoléon subjugated the Netherlands in 1811, the British seized the islands but returned them to the Dutch in 1816. In 1922, Indonesia was made an integral part of the Dutch kingdom. During World War II, Japan seized the islands. Tokyo was primarily interested in Indonesia's oil, which was vital to the war effort, and tolerated fledgling nationalists such as Sukarno and Mohammed Hatta. After Japan's surrender, Sukarno and Hatta proclaimed Indonesian independence on Aug. 17, 1945. Allied troops, mostly British Indian forces, fought nationalist militias to reassert the prewar status quo until the arrival of Dutch troops.


text:
Looking for a Penshurst electrician?
Wired by Wyatt provide the best electrical repairs, electrical design and electrical installation services in Penshurst and surrounding suburbs our experienced and professional team of Electricians have the skills and knowledge to tackle any electrical job big or small.
Our track record proves that our team of hand-picked and highly trained electricians are committed to providing an excellent level of service in Penshurst that cannot be beaten for both our domestic and commercial clients.
- Electrical Design and Installation Services
- Fault Finding and Repairs
- Supply and Installation of Emergency and Exit Lighting
- Supply and Installation of MATV Systems
- Electrical Maintenance
- Supply and Installation of IXL's, Ceiling and Exhaust Fans
- Supply and Installation of Smoke Detectors
- Supply and Installation or Replacement of Indoor and Outdoor Light Fittings and Power Points
- Supply and Installation of Sensor, External and Security Lighting
- Repairs and Rewiring of Lighting and Power Circuits
- Supply and Installation of R.C.D's – Safety Switches
- Switchboard Repairs, Upgrades and or Replacements
- Installation of Cook Tops, Ovens, Stoves and Range Hoods
- Rewiring of All Types of Buildings Residential, Industrial and Commercial
- Telephone, Data and Communications Cabling
- Energy Efficiency Audits
- Home, Office and Business Security
- Residential and Commercial Building Automation
- Home Entertainment
- All Types of Electrical Work
- Test and Tag


text:
Your browser currently is not set to accept Cookies. Please turn it on or check if you have another program set to block cookies.
Need an Account? Join Today!
FT Optiforce Fairway Woods have Speed Optimized Technology and a precise CG for enhanced accuracy and distance.
Temporarily unavailable.
A combination of an aerodynamically advanced clubhead design and lightweight shaft increases clubhead speed for superior ball speed and distance.
We've fused our Forged Face Cup with our Speed Frame Face. This allows for increased ball speeds all across the face in a fairway wood that's longer from everywhere.
This unique design feature precisely positions the club's center of gravity for high launch angles and optimizes the spin rates to ensure maximum carry distance.
The Modern Warbird Sole delivers increased versatility from everywhere with an updated design that builds off of one of the most versatile fairway woods ever produced.


text:
The August 2010 Daring Bakers' challenge was hosted by Elissa of "17 And Baking". For the first time, The Daring Bakers partnered with Sugar High Fridays for a co-event and Elissa was the gracious hostess of both. Using the theme of beurre noisette, or browned butter, Elissa chose to challenge Daring Bakers to make a pound cake to be used in either a "Baked Alaska" or in "Ice Cream Petit Fours". The sources for Elissa's challenge were Gourmet Magazine and David Lebovitz's "The Perfect Scoop".
As I had never made "Petits Fours" or "Ice Cream Sandwiches" before, I decided upon making those cute little frozen cakes for my boyfriend's birthday. As we were only two to eat this dessert and since my freezer crammed with "junk" I thought it would be more judicious to cut the the quantities in half. Otherwise I followed the recipe to the letter, nonetheless I added my personal touch to the vanilla ice cream that I flavored with Chinese Five-Spice powder (a mix of powdered star anise, cloves, cinnamon, Sichuan pepper and fennel seeds) and dark rum.
Apart from having problems with the size of my freezer, the high temperatures (the ice cream started melting when I tried to coat the cakes with the cooled glaze - painful), my nerve-wracking hungry cats (who constantly kept walking around my legs and following my every movement as well as step while sitting at the other end of the room with their biiiiiiig psycho eyes) the making of those "Ice Cream Petit Fours" went quite smoothly.
We really liked those icy treats. The cake had a heavenly nutty taste thanks to the browned butter, the ice cream was divinely spicy and boozy and the dark chocolate glaze had a lot of character. All those elements blended very well together, yet I must say that I would have prefered to eat each of them separately (a ball ice cream with a slice of non-frozen cake, the whole drizzled with warm chocolate ganache). Somehow, the cake had less flavor when served frozen and that was a bit annoying as it was very aromatic when I tested it before it was used to make mini sandwiches...
Anyway, I wish to thank Elissa for having chosen that great dessert and making me try something new. A recipe that delighted us very much!
~ Five Spice Ice Cream Petits Fours ~
The brown butter pound cake recipe is adapted from the October 2009 edition of Gourmet. The vanilla ice cream is from ice cream genius David Lebovitz, adapted from The Perfect Scoop. The chocolate glaze for the petit fours is a larger adapted version of this ganache from Godiva Chocolate.
Preparation time:
Ice cream – 45 min active time, ice cream rests/chills for 1 hour then overnight. Without an ice cream maker, the ice cream chills 2-3 hours and must be stirred every 30 minutes.
Brown Butter Pound Cake – 2 hours (includes cooling time).
Chocolate Glaze – 15 minutes
Meringue – 10 minutes
Assembly of Ice Cream Petit Fours – Ice cream must be frozen ahead of time several hours, then the cake and ice cream freeze overnight. After dipping, the petit fours freeze for one hours.
Assembly of Baked Alaska – Ice cream must be frozen head of time several hours, then the Baked Alaska is frozen 1 hour or up to one day.
Equipment required:
• Small and medium saucepans
• Paring knife
• 2 quart (2 litres) bowl
• Electric mixer
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Sieve
• 9"x9" (23cmx23cm) square baking pan
• 10" (25 cm) skillet
• Cake leveler/serrated knife
• Cooling racks
• Rimmed half sheets
• Teacups
• Plastic wrap
• Piping bags (optional)
• Ice cream maker (optional)
• Cooking blow torch (optional)
Ingredients For The "Five Spice Ice Cream":
1 Cup (250ml) Whole milk
A pinch of sea salt
3/4 Cup (165g) Sugar
1 Vanilla bean, split lengthwise OR 2 teaspoons (10ml) pure vanilla extract
2 Cups (500ml) Heavy (approx 35% butterfat) cream
5 Large egg yolks
1 Tsp Pure vanilla extract
2 1/4 Tsps Chinese 5 spices
3 Tbs Dark rum
Method For The "Five Spice Ice Cream":
1. Heat the milk, salt, and sugar in a medium saucepan until the liquid steams. Scrape out the seeds of the vanilla bean with a paring knife and add to the milk, along with the bean pod. Cover, remove from heat, and let infuse for an hour. (If you do not have a vanilla bean, simply heat the milk, salt, and sugar in a medium saucepan until the liquid steams, then let cool to room temperature.).
2. Set up an ice bath by placing a 2-quart (2 litre) bowl inside a large bowl partially filled with water and ice. Put a strainer on top of the smaller bowl and pour in the cream.
3. In another bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks together. Reheat the milk in the medium saucepan until warmed, and then gradually pour ¼ cup warmed milk into the yolks, constantly whisking to keep the eggs from scrambling. Once the yolks are warmed, scrape the yolk and milk mixture back into the saucepan of warmed milk and cook over low heat. Stir constantly and scrape the bottom with a spatula until the mixture thickens into a custard which thinly coats the back of the spatula.
4. Strain the custard into the heavy cream and stir the mixture until cooled. Add the vanilla extract (1 teaspoon [5ml] if you are using a vanilla bean; 3 teaspoons [15ml] if you are not using a vanilla bean), the 5 spice, the rum and refrigerate until thoroughly chilled, preferably overnight.
5. Remove the vanilla bean and freeze in an ice cream maker. If you don't have an ice cream maker, you can make it without a machine (see instructions from David Lebovitz).
Ingredients For the "Brown Butter Pound Cake":
19 Tbs (9.5 oz/275g) Unsalted butter
2 Cups (200g) Sifted cake flour (not self-rising; sift before measuring/see "Note" section for cake flour substitution)
1 Tsp (5g) Baking powder
1/2 Tsp (3g) Sea salt
1/2 Cup (110g) Packed light brown sugar
1/3 Cup (75g) Granulated sugar
4 Large eggs
1/2 Tsp Pure vanilla extract
Method For the "Brown Butter Pound Cake":
1. Preheat the oven to 325°F/160°C and put a rack in the center. Butter and flour a 9"x9" (23cmx23cm) square pan.
2. Place the butter in a 10" (25cm) skillet over medium heat. Brown the butter until the milk solids are a dark chocolate brown and the butter smells nutty. (Don't take your eyes off the butter in case it burns.) Pour into a shallow bowl and chill in the freezer until just congealed, 15-30 minutes.
3. Whisk together cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Beat the brown butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar in an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well, and then the vanilla extract.
5. Stir in the flour mixture at low speed until just combined.
6. Scrape the batter into the greased and floured 9"x9" (23cmx23cm) square pan. Smooth the top with a rubber spatula and rap the pan on the counter. Bake until golden brown on top and when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, about 25 minutes.
7. Cool in the pan 10 minutes. Run a knife along the edge and invert right-side-up onto a cooling rack to cool completely.
Ingredients For The "Chocolate Glaze":
9 Oz (250g) Dark chocolate, finely chopped
1 Cup (250ml) Heavy (approx 35% butterfat) cream
1 1/2 Tbs (32g) Light corn syrup, Golden syrup, or agave nectar
2 Tsp (10ml) Pure vanilla extract (I omitted it)
Method For The "Chocolate Glaze":
1. Stir the heavy cream and light corn syrup in a small saucepan over medium heat until it comes to a boil. Remove from heat and add the dark chocolate.
2. Let sit 30 seconds, then stir to completely melt the chocolate. Stir in the vanilla and let cool until tepid before glazing the petit fours.
1. Line a 9"x9" (23cmx23cm) pan with plastic wrap, so that no sides of the pan are exposed and so there is some extra plastic wrap hanging off the sides. Spread 1 ¾ to 2 cups (450ml to 500ml) ice cream into the pan. Cover with more plastic wrap and freeze several hours.
2. Once the brown butter pound cake has completely cooled, level the top with a cake leveler or a serrated knife. Then split the cake in half horizontally to form two thin layers.
3. Unwrap the frozen ice cream. Flip out onto one of the layers of cake and top with the second layer of cake. Wrap well in plastic wrap and return to the freezer overnight.
4. Make the chocolate glaze (see above.).
5. While the glaze cools, trim ¾" (2cm) off each side of the ice cream cake to leave a perfectly square 7.5" (19cm) ice cream cake. Cut the cake into twenty five petit fours, each 1.5"x1.5" (4cmx4cm).
• While there is not a great deal of active time, this recipe cannot be easily completed in a day because of freezing time. Make the ice cream first, then the pound cake, then the glaze/meringue as stated in the assembly instructions.
• The pound cake calls for cake flour. You can make 1 cup of cake flour by placing 2 tablespoons of corn starch in a 1 cup measure, and filling to the top with all purpose flour.
• The ice cream can be flavored however you want by infusing the cream, stirring in extracts or mix ins, or folding in purees, sauces, etc.
• For the petit fours, you can also use your own recipe for fondant, poured fondant, royal icing, or marzipan. I recommend the chocolate glaze because it freezes well and balances the sweetness of the ice cream, but it does limit the scope of your decorations.
C'est pourquoi je vous suggère de vous rendre sur le blog mentionné ci-dessous. Vous y trouverez cette recette en version française.
Chez Isa de "Les Gourmandises d'Isa" (Canada)
Chez Vibi de "La Casserole Carrée" (Canada)


text:
Keanu Reeves new movie a Hollywood-Japan fusion
TOKYO - The director of the Keanu Reeves 3-D film "47 Ronin" says he hopes his adaptation of a true Japanese story becomes a Hollywood blockbuster.Film director Carl Rinsch, Reeves and co-stars appeared together in front of a Tokyo audience yesterday.
The film is based on an actual historical event during the Edo Period known as "Chushingura." It involved a lord who was wrongfully put to death and his followers - ronin - who sought revenge.
Rinsch said he took on the film subject and sat down with Keanu Reeves about two years ago. They wondered how they were going to take on a popular Japanese tale and do it justice. Rinsch said they decided to make the story their own, making "it a Hollywood blockbuster and see it through that lens."
"These themes of revenge, loyalty, perseverance, were things we knew from the very beginning were universal," said Rinsch, who is making his directorial feature debut with the film.
Japanese actor Hiroyuki Sanada stars as the main supporting character, Kuranosuke Oishi, a leader of the men. Sanada said that during the filming Reeves became more and more of a samurai, while the character he played became more "wild" in style.
Sanada said Reeves and himself hoped to depict the friendship of two characters, which transcended borders and social positions, in the film.
Reeves said "47 Ronin" is a story where people "share this journey to reclaim their land, their honor, their way. It was very special to me to be part of it."
Reeves, who grew up attracted to martial arts movies, makes his directorial debut this year with the martial arts movie "Man of Tai Chi." AP


text:
Chronic stress is like a tea kettle on the boil—all that "steam" has to go somewhere. We often do this through behaviors like biting our nails, binging on comfort food—or grinding our teeth. That latter habit, however, could have a detrimental effect on teeth, including excessive enamel wear or even fractures.
Also known as bruxism, teeth grinding is the forceful and often involuntary contacting of teeth that often generates abnormally high chewing forces. While not considered a relatively big problem with young children, it can be if you're an adult. While there could be other causes, chronic stress is often a prime factor for adults with bruxism.
While teeth grinding can occur during the day when you're awake, it often occurs at night during sleep and may be associated with other sleep disorders like snoring. Although you might not be consciously aware of a grinding episode as it happens, you may notice its effects the next morning, including sore jaws or headaches. Over time, your dentist may begin noticing its effects on your teeth.
So, how can you lessen teeth grinding? For starters, if you're a tobacco user, quit the habit. Many studies indicate tobacco users report twice the incidence of teeth grinding as non-users. Excessive caffeine, alcohol or drug use can also contribute.
People have also found it helpful to address chronic stress through a number of relaxation techniques like meditation, more relaxing bedtime preparation, bio-feedback or therapy to "de-stress." Although there's not a lot of empirical evidence for these techniques' effectiveness, there's much anecdotal data from people who've found stress relief from them.
There's also a dental treatment using an occlusal guard that, while not stopping bruxism, can help prevent dental damage. Usually worn during sleep, the custom-made guard fits over the teeth of one jaw, usually the upper. Its high impact plastic prevents the teeth from making solid contact, thus reducing the biting force. You may also be able to reduce bruxism effects through dental work and orthodontics,
You and your dentist can explore the options to find the right treatment strategy for you. By taking action now, you may avoid much more extensive—and expensive—problems with your teeth down the road.
If you would like more information on teeth grinding and what to do about it, please contact us or schedule an appointment for a consultation. You can also learn more about this topic by reading the Dear Doctor magazine article "Teeth Grinding: Causes and Therapies for a Potentially Troubling Behavior."


text:
Dear NSA,
We need to have a chat, so I trust you're reading this.
Of course you are; good. Now, let's see … how should I put this? Look, you've done a great job cultivating that whole "spook" image for the past 60 years. Really, you've just been terrifyingly adept at creating an environment of ironclad secrecy, even more so than the CIA, who've bungled too many overseas jobs to be the omnipotent, untouchable agency they'd like us to think they are.
Times are changing, though. For the past several generations, you've been the rulers of all information, with no one to challenge you. Americans just had to trust that the good quiet folk at the NSA were looking out for them, because no one else could handle data on such a large scale. It was a simpler time, back when the Internet was young and the Web was just a seed of an idea, and our idea of "big data" was the Yellow Pages.
There are new kids in town, though; kids who grew up on data. They were raised to dish out and take in as much data as possible, and they do it for fun. To you, Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, and all the rest of it are the latest places from which to siphon information. To these new kids, it's home. It's where they grew up, which is why they're much better at it, and why you hire so many of them.
Now, what happens when you raise a generation on a steady diet of data, and then try to keep naughty secrets? They're going to ask questions. They grew up in a world where information was free, and they took advantage of that fact. They learned more about the world around them than could ever be learned in school, and they went online for the answers to the questions their parents and teachers wouldn't answer. They grew up not just appreciating that information was free, but expecting information to be free.
It gets worse. Not only are you hiring millennials, for whom secrecy is anathema—you're hiring millennial hackers. And hacking, as you well know, means finding ways of turning technology to serve a purpose other than its intended one. When information isn't free, these people have the ability and the will to free it.
I know this because I'm one of them. I may not have top-secret clearance and make six figures working for one of your contractors, but Edward Snowden's demographic profile still hits close to home. When I was a boy, I used to hack into my computer games to add fart sounds to them. I built my own computers. I made my sister's Teddy Ruxpin say horrible, horrible things. When I get a new phone, its hackability is its number-one buying point.
When I get my hands on a new piece of technology, my first thought isn't about what it can do—it's about what it can't do, and how can I force it to overcome its limitations to do what I want. I then wonder, "Why wasn't I 'allowed' to do this in the first place?" See, we millennial hackers simply cannot take anything at face value. We're a bit contrarian and stubborn by nature. It's why we're good at what we do. The more constraints you place on us (be they workplace, physical, technological, or copyright) the more we feel a need to disregard, challenge, or overcome those constraints.
To be a hacker is to be cynical about whatever "solid" information or limits you're faced with, to remove layers of consumer sheen or government spin until raw components are laid bare to reconstruct at will. You reward people like me with fat salaries when we do this with technology, so there's little sense in expecting us not do the same in the rest of our lives—with your policies, rules, information, even with our own personal lives. We tinker, probe, deconstruct, and reassemble for other purposes. One thing we don't do is blindly put hand to heart and sing "God Bless, America" —unless we're in a North Korean gulag and it's a contrarian move.
Do you see the problem? You need my kind of people for our understanding of data, but we don't necessarily want or need you. You are anathema to our values and expectations. Sure, you've got some very smart graybeards who can do some amazing things, but they're not going to be the bulk of your army for long, if they even still are. You have no choice but to keep hiring these hackers who didn't grow up having data hidden from them. It's ironic that you've become so reliant on people who really have no business in a tight-lipped, hierarchical quasi-militarized institution. We are the ones you should be snooping on, if only you could snoop without us.
I feel your pain.
Edward Snowden smoked you, and it wasn't even very hard for him. Now, I know what you're going to say. "It won't happen again! We'll improve security!" Who is going to improve your security? Is it going to be the naval officers you used to hire, respectful of hierarchy and used to a military lifestyle? Or maybe, say, more young, technical lay-people—contractors with the information freedom ideals of the millennial hacker? Yeah, I thought so.
Let's face it: This isn't going to be the last time your secrets are aired to the public. It's probably not even going to be the last time this year that your secrets are aired to the public by another Edward Snowden, because you've got countless Edward Snowdens on your payroll whose first—not last—instinct is to blow open your information infrastructure. I mean, you tried to recruit me years ago, for goodness sake. Those confidential recruitment materials that said "For Your Eyes Only" all over them? Yeah, I showed those to everyone I knew, mostly because you were so heavy-handed with all the confidential stuff.
The important thing now is not to panic. No tears. You're a big, strong, spooky organization, right? You don't have to clean out your desk. You've still got a big role to play in the cyber-warfare of the next several decades. You're just learning a hard lesson here, and I realize you're partly being demonized for implementing what the White House and Congress want. However, you have no choice but to keep hiring these young, entitled, informed, data-driven hackers, who pretty soon might not have any secrets to leak because the Snowdens in your midst will have forced you to turn into a fully transparent (but still efficient!) organization.
Now that I think of it, you really should have played up the six-figure salary and Hawaii angle in those recruiting materials you gave me. I would've kept your secrets. Really.


text:
The NBA season opens Christmas Day, and every sports writer worth his tinseled tropes has made a reference to basketball fans being able to unwrap a slate of games under the tree.
But did you know that Dec. 25 isn't just Christmas? Did you know that to the Nakh people of the Northern Caucuses it is, or rather was, the date of the Malkh festival? Of course you didn't. As of this writing the Malkh festival had only one "like" on Facebook, and I was the liker. So in deference to these ancient forbearers of the modern-day inhabitants of Karachay-Cherkessia, Kabardino-Balkaria, North Ossetia-Alania, Ingushetia, Chechnya and the Republic of Dagestan, I present my Vainakh mythology-themed NBA preview.
Deela Division
This division, named for the supreme being of Vainakh mythos, includes the very short list of NBA contenders. The Heat are Las Vegas' favorite to win the title, and the favorite of everyone who ever rooted for Mr. Potter in It's A Wonderful Life. But you know what? That's not fair, the Heat, specifically LeBron James, make for easy villains, but they really are a collection of three talented players, who chose to be authors of their own fate, take less salary than they may have commanded on the open market and try desperately to win a championship for their teammate Mario Chalmers. Last year the Heat were 10-8 through November. Well guess what? This year the NBA jettisoned November! Smooth sailing for this particular Carnival cruise.
Oklahoma City Thunder -- No one talked about the Thunder during the offseason, so I won't, either, except to say they're ready to represent the West in the finals.
Chicago Bulls — The only team in the East beside the Heat who can make a plausible case for being the No. 1 seed. Their off-season acquisition of Rip Hamilton will take some of the offensive pressure off Derrick Rose.
Los Angeles Lakers — The current Lakers are deficient, but I've got to think that they'll add a piece during the season. If that piece is Dwight Howard, it will mean the Lakers are the team to beat; if it's Juwan Howard, it won't.
Sela Division
Sela, who lives on the top of Mount Kazbek, is the keeper of flame. So it's logical to name the defending champions Dallas Mavericks to this division. The Mavs' acquisition of Lamar Odom doesn't make up for the loss of Tyson Chandler as a shot-blocking presence, but Odom is a more versatile player than Chandler. Also, a veteran team like the Mavs should not be as hurt by the truncated preseason and shortened season as a team of players just flung together for the first time. And then there's Dirk Nowitzki.
The Boston Celtics -- NBA finalists in 2009, the Celtics are also keepers of the flame, but more to the point, they're keepers of essentially the same roster. They lost Glen "Big Baby" Davis via trade, and lost another big man, Jeff Green, for the year to a heart ailment. It's hard to see if the "big three" and Rajon Rondo can manage to play deep into June. (By the way, calling Paul Pierce, Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett the "big three" and leaving out Rondo is like calling Charlie Watts, Ronnie Wood and Keith Richards "The Rolling Stones" and leaving out Mick Jagger. But that's more an analogy suited toward Khagya-Yerdi, the Vainakh god of rock.)
San Antonio Spurs — We forget that after the Bulls, the Spurs had the best record in the NBA last year. But they are five years removed from their last championship. You might see Coach Greg Popovich give aging stars like Tim Duncan an overstuffed chair and a glass of HEB Mootopia during some of the back-to-back-to-back games on the shortened schedule.
Unu Division
Unu, the goddess of contagious diseases, seems to have found purchase in Portland Blazer center Greg Oden, who may never be really healthy, and Brandon Roy, who is collecting a pension at 27 because of chronic knee ailments.
New York Knicks -- Each of the team's big stars has a flaw, and it's usually medical in nature. Carmelo Anthony, who is unselective in his shots, also grapples with a balky knee and a squawky elbow. Sixty-six games is still too long a season for Amare Stoudemire's knees and back. Tyson Chandler is limited offensively. Baron Davis is susceptible to injury, apathy and an inflated sense of ability.
Warzameg Division
I'm going to go ahead and call in the definitive text on Vainakh myths: Warzameg, son of Meghazash, won the damsel Psatina as retold in John Colarusso's Nart Sagas From the Caucasus. In our analogy, Psatina is not a damsel but the public's fascination. No team holds this more than the LA Clippers. Once a team as ignored as Ishtar: The Movie and seen by players as the abode of Ishtar-Deela, ruler of the underworld, the current Clippers are the flavor of the month. Chris Paul really is amazing, as is Blake Griffith.
Memphis Grizzlies — The delightful surprise of last year's playoffs, can the Grizzles do it again? Does Mozh spend her time trying to eat the Sun and Moon? Am I right people?
Bolam-Deela Division
Bolam-Deela, according to the entry in Wikipedia, is "Another entity. Not much is known about him/her." The Atlanta Hawks certainly fall in this group. They have talented players like Josh Smith and Joe Johnson, but those guys are named Josh Smith and Joe Johnson. They seem like a perennial 4/5 seed that bows out in the first round, letting talented Al Horford down again.
Denver Nuggets -- Not much is known about the Nuggets, either. Of the four players obligated to play out their contracts with the Chinese Basketball Association, three — Kenyon Martin, J.R. Smith and Wilson Chandler — are Nuggets. The Nugs also acquired Rudy Fernandez and Corey Brewer from the Mavericks. Two rookies add, shall we say, fresh ingredients for Coach George Karl to cook with.
Philadelphia 76ers — The 76ers are the least popular pro team in their crazy sports town. Evan Turner gives them hope, so long as Andre Iguodala doesn't shoot them out of too many games. No truth to the rumor that they'll line up in the Wide Nine on defense. (Sports dork joke!)
Indianapolis Pacers — Here, anonymity (or Bolam-Deela-ness) is a positive. The Pacers could be the surprise team in the East this year, even stealing a first-round series. The addition of David West seems perfect for this team of useful parts looking to coalesce into a whole.
Pkhagalberi Tribe Division
Named for the race of dwarves, this division includes the Orlando Magic, which has height now, but may not when Dwight Howard gets his wish and makes like the Statue of Liberty to the David Copperfield that is the Magic fan base and management.
Houston Rockets — The Rockets were decimated by the retirement of center Yao Ming. Actually, decimated means "to reduce by a 10th" and the Rockets have been cut down more than that. The just-signed Samuel Dalembert, a 26-minute-a-game player, is not enough to make up for the loss of Yao's height. Though undersized, the Rockets tend to overachieve thanks to excellent coaching and management, but aren't serious contenders.
Meler Yerdi Division
Meler Yerdi is the god of plants and cereal beverages. Teams in this division will be eaten up by the competition this year.
New Jersey Nets -- Kris Humphries polls as the least popular player in the NBA for, among other things, telling his former wife Kim Kardashian that she is unintelligent, untalented and not small of posterior. When Charles Barkley says stuff like that we love him. It's all in the timing.
Milwaukee Bucks — They shoot worse than Elta, god of the hunt and animals — when he's aiming out of his bad eye! Is this thing on? Oh. It's a large handled Varzap? Never mind.
Golden State Warriors — First-year Coach Mark Jackson was done no favors by a preseason that's shorter than an unexcited Taamash, lord of fate, who is usually tiny in size and only becomes gigantic when angered.
Then you have Cleveland, Charlotte, Phoenix, Sacramento, Utah, Washington, New Orleans, Toronto, Detroit and Minnesota. The teams all would be Narts, the race of heroic Giants who battled the Chintas, lost and didn't even have extra salary cap room to show for it.
Copyright 2021 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.


text:
Front Engine Porsche Guide
The Porsche 911 casts one of the longest shadows the automotive industry has ever seen. Almost from the moment the iconic sports car was launched in 1963, it seemingly set in aspic what it was that made a Porsche a Porsche – flat-six power, air-cooling, and a chainsaw wail under acceleration that just had to come from behind the driver's head. These were the ingredients that went into a Porsche, pure and simple – and anything else to come from Porsche was going to struggle to emerge from those 911-shaped shadows.
So what of the cars Porsche built that didn't follow the 911's template? Just what should we think of the cars that were designed to complement – and potentially replace – the icon by treading a different evolutionary path? We know that the branch of the family tree that encompasses the 924, 944, 928 and 968 came to an end in 1995 but, during its 20-year tangential adventure, it gifted us some of the most exciting cars ever to emerge from the Stuttgart factory gates.
And that's why, some 35 years since the launch of the 924, it's time to celebrate this car and its successors – and allow them finally to emerge into the limelight.
The seeds of the Porsche 924's creation were sown in 1970, when Rudolf Leiding replaced Kurt Lotz as general manager of struggling Volkswagen. VW needed a new, front-engined, water-cooled product line and Leidling wanted the new order to be headed by a suitable replacement for the mid-engined VW-Porsche 914.
And so project EA425 – a new car designed by Porsche for sale by VW – was born after a troubled gestation, mainly due to the need to use as many VW-Audi parts as possible. Suitable engine options were limited: the 1984cc unit chosen was effectively an overhead-camshaft version of the old Mercedes-Benz-developed DKW/Audi engine that would find its way into both the VW LT van and the Audi 100 saloon. However, EA425 was the only version to feature fuel injection.
After a VW change of heart in 1973, Porsche bought the production rights to the car and, two years later, the 924 went on sale. It looked good, having been conceived with aerodynamics in mind by Harm Lagaay. Integrated bumpers and a wrap-around rear window gave the 924 a timeless look and a low 0.35 drag coefficient. With just 125bhp, it would top 120mph. The 125bhp slant-four might have been unexotic for a Porsche, but the decision to use a rear transaxle was a stroke of genius, allowing near-50:50 weight distribution.
Driving impressions are dominated by a feeling that it could do so much better. The handling – thanks to well thought out suspension that borrowed heavily from the Golf and Beetle – is nicely balanced, but the engine's noisy, and lacking in real power. Its 0-60mph time of 9.5sec tells you all you need to know. But it was a great starting point for what was to come. In 1979 the 924 Turbo (Type 931/932) was launched, putting right many of the original car's faults and marking the arrival of the 'proper' entry-level Porsche.
But it was Porsche's decision to take the 924 to Le Mans that would give us the greatest of them all. To satisfy Group 4 homologation regulations, at least 400 road-going examples had to be built – and the 924 Carrera GT (Type 937/938) was the result. When the production version arrived in early 1980 (following the concept's unveiling at the Frankfurt motor show the previous year), it caught the mood of the moment, arriving alongside the Audi Quattro and midengined Renault 5 Turbo. The three cars pointed to a turbocharged future for motor sport, besides being amazing in themselves as road cars. The Porsche was the most special of the trailblazing threesome – and not just because it was faster than a 911.
The styling changes over a standard 924 Turbo weren't excessive, but they transformed the car – with wide arches, bonnet scoop and larger spoilers, it looked tougher and more purposeful. The alterations were in the name of airflow management, so it was more slippery (drag coefficient dropped to 0.33), and generated more downforce. Weight was also reduced to 1180kg (a 150kg saving).
Modifications to the engine made the 924 Carrera GT easier to drive. Compression ratio was raised to 8.5:1 (from 7.5:1), and digital timing control was incorporated with the sole intention of smoothing out the transition from off- to on-boost. Power increased to 210bhp, and that, combined with the weight reduction programme and improved aerodynamics, meant the 924 Carrera GT achieved supercar performance. It could hit 0-60mph in 6.5sec and go on to a top speed of 150mph, a remarkable performance from just 2.0 litres.
But it's not merely the pace of the 924 Carrera GT that makes it so special. With only 75 examples – out of a total run of 406 – imported into the UK, it's a rare car, and values are on the rise, too. Good examples now fetch well over $60,000, assuming you can find one. And while that rarity and high value are important in many ways, what's really special about the Carrera GT is the way in which it fulfils the original 924's promise: its roadholding is transformed by the additional lateral grip generated by the wider wheels and tyres, while the weight loss programme leaves it with even more responsive steering and alert handling with even better balance. That word again.
Porsche's baby was now challenging the 911 – a sure sign that the company's management was seriously looking at the prospect of life beyond air-cooling. And under the lights of the photo studio, it's the one of this threesome that commands the most attention on the day. Difficult to believe that such a beast evolved from a car designed to be sold from your local Volkswagen dealership for little more than the price of an MGB.
Even the earliest 924 holds appeal today, and you can buy the best for $4,700 (less than MGB money). Yes, many of those left are $750 bangers and that engine's a bit, well, ordinary compared with an air-cooled flat-six, but there's sophistication to the way it moves along the road, and its looks have aged well. There's a Porsche badge on this car because it was designed and built by Porsche, after all.
That makes it uncommonly tough too, and if you really can't stomach the VW-based engine, go for a 924S. Built between 1985 and 1988, it's the very last of the 924 line and powered by a detuned Porsche-designed 944 engine. Its 160bhp makes for 0-60mph in 7.9sec (it's lighter than the slightly more powerful 944) and a top speed of 136mph. The best will cost you $6,000. Bargain.
Developing the 924 for VW had been a fortuitous move for Porsche, but actually replacing the 911 was increasingly occupying the minds at Zuffenhausen. It wasn't as if the 911's popularity was waning as it moved into the 1970s – but there was a nagging worry that it could go out of fashion very quickly, especially in the light of new rivals hitting the market, typified by Ferrari's Dino 246GT and the Lamborghini Urraco.
Work on what would become the 928 began in October 1971, a decision taken by Porsche's new technical director Dr Ernst Fuhrmann. It was a logical step (in those preenergy crisis days) to devise a car that would sit upmarket of the one it was meant to replace, as well as appeal to the US market. So the engineering team led by Helmuth Bott rapidly conceived a brand new car powered by an all-new, front-mounted, water-cooled V8, driving the rear wheels through a transaxle. It reflected the work that was being undertaken on the EA425, and was seen as being sufficiently future-proofed against whatever emissions and safety regulations were thrown at it. More importantly, it was seen as something infinitely more modern and progressive than the anachronistic 911.
The 928 took shape quickly, with a timeless, organic style overseen by design chief Tony Lapine, following a brief that demanded both shock at launch and resistance to ageing – inside and out. Its integrated bumpers, lay-flat headlamps and curvaceous flanks were at odds with the vogueish origami design of its rivals, yet it wasn't as aerodynamic as the 924, managing a drag factor of 0.41.
The energy crisis brought a halt while alternative options – six-cylinders, a four-seater, even redesigning the 911 to use some of the 928's running gear – were investigated. But by 1975 the 928 programme was back on track, its engine capacity set at 4.5 liters for 240bhp.The 924 hit the market first, allowing customers to become familiar with the notion of a water-cooled Porsche before the 928 was launched at the 1977 Geneva motor show.
It impressed immediately with its handling. Autocar said: 'It is easy to dismiss the 928 as almost dull in corners… and then you think about how fast you are going through the corner.' The so-called Weissach rear axle (named after Porsche's technical centre) had been the subject of painstaking development and featured passive rear steering. But the 928 wasn't quick compared with the similarly priced 911 Turbo. Despite aluminium doors and bonnet, its 0-60mph time of 7.8sec and maximum speed of 140mph did not compare well even with the cheaper Jaguar XJ-S's 7sec and 150mph. It might have been conceived as a GT with an environmentally sound engine – the V8 would happily run on two-star fuel – but many owners were left wanting more.
The answer came in 1979, with the arrival of the 928S. Its 4664cc V8 had dual exhausts, a raised compression ratio and 300bhp, signified by subtle new front and rear spoilers. That was more like it. 0-60mph was down to 6.2sec, top speed up to 152mph, within spitting distance of the 911 Turbo, and what Autocar described as 'real raw performance which the 911 Series had taught us to expect'. Porsche was moving the 928 away from its original GT role, carefully positioning it yet further above the 911 – which, ironically, had yet to show any sign of going out of fashion.
As the 1980s progressed, the 928 continued to receive further boosts in power, and hikes in price – and although it never sold anywhere near as well as the 911, it remained a mainstay of the range. The swansong came in 1993, when the Porsche 928GTS was rolled out. With 345bhp and 369lb ft, it was a scintillatingly quick car. Styling was subtly altered once again, but not enough to spoil the genius of the original, and now the car could crack 170mph. It might have been a dinosaur, but it was a glorious one.
Today, the 928 has never looked better. The early car, like the one we have in our studio, has a design purity and rarity that makes it seem almost delicate and timeless. But it's also an appealing long-distance tourer, with a nearcosseting ride and a melodious exhaust note that's impossible to tire of. And while Porsche now builds the Cayenne SUV and the Panamera saloon, there isn't a car in its range that replicates the true GT nature of the 928.
As it became harder and faster throughout its life, the 928 lost that engaging easy-going character which makes it seem so special today. Keen drivers, though, might have a different take on the situation – and for anyone who wants a fast Porsche, but who doesn't like the idea of playing Russian Roulette with a rear-engined car, a 928S is almost impossible to resist, especially at today's prices. Just $9,000 will secure an excellent 928 or 928S for the purist: you can live out your most depraved 1970s-man-of-mystery fantasies in this car, surrounded as you are with that eyeboggling Pascha velour trim and awakening a deeply satisfying V8 rumble with every prod of your right foot. It's even a realistic DIY challenge, with little in the way of electronics. Just make sure all the plumbing works.
Another $3,000 will secure you an excellent S4, not so old in the grand scheme of things and still capable of being a great regular driver: think Merc efficacy with just enough Porsche soul to make life interesting too. But you might have missed the boat for the best GTS which, with prices now commanding north of $40,000, has already moved by 25% in the last few years. Forget Mercedes comparisons; you could shame Ferraris in one of these yet worry far less about breaking down.
The popular perception of a bargain Porsche remains very much a four-cylinder. And it's typically the 944 that appeals most, mainly because it's powered by an engine that owes nothing to VW. It might have looked like a 924 Carrera GT when it rolled onto the scene in 1981, but under its bonnet beat the heart of a 'real' Porsche.
The 944's raison d'Ϊtre was simple. VW was bound to stop building the 924's engine sooner rather than later, and Porsche needed to replace it quickly if it was to take its entry-level car upmarket. That process was facilitated by the fact that the original installation was a slant-four, and the impressive all-aluminium 928 V8 could, in effect, be halved to fit into the same space. Which is exactly what Porsche did – even if what emerged shared no parts with the engine on which it was based. The 944's four-cylinder carried over the V8's aluminium construction and opendeck design, as well as its 78.9mm bore, but the stroke was longer, taking engine capacity to 2479cc. Full engine management and balance shafts were further innovations.
The best bits of the 924's design – its transaxle and suspension set-up – were left alone, while the styling was a gentle evolution of the well-received 924 Carrera GT's. In short, it was a massive step forward.
But as the 1980s became the '90s, 944 sales started to wane and the company's fortunes were fading fast. Porsche continued to evolve the 944, the base car being expanded to 2.7 liters, while the new 3.0-liter 944S2 and uprated Turbo added more performance to match the sweet handling. There were even convertible versions, complete with small rear seats but slightly awkward speedster-of-Notre Dame styling. All were superb cars, but the 944's time was running out. So Porsche simply repeated what it did to turn the 924 into the 944, and launched the 968 in 1992.
The 968, which was originally going to be called the 944S3, was given a big facelift by Harm Lagaay, who sprinkled the 16-year-old body with 928S4 styling cues. The 3.0-liter 16-valve was given a revised cylinder head and VarioCam computer-controlled timing system for 236bhp and 225lb ft. And the 968 emerged as the greatest front-engined driver's Porsche of them all.
The real gem of the 968 range was the super-rare 968 Turbo S, the first of its (roadgoing) kind to push 300bhp, and top 170mph. Yet still sales didn't take off. So in December 1992, Porsche had a last throw of the dice, launching the lightweight, cut-price 968 Club Sport. Weight was reduced by 50kg over the standard car, it wore lairy graphics down the sides and, most importantly, it cost $8,000 less – and road-testers and buyers alike loved it.
With non-essential items such as rear seats and airbag removed as well as a 10mm drop in ride height, this was an unashamed driver's car – and it did a great deal to keep its maker on the boil in the run-up to its next generation of cars, all of which would be water-cooled. The Club Sport won plaudits for its handling and track ability and these are qualities that continue to shine through to this day.
Jump into a 968 Club Sport and, once you've got used to the optional fixed-back Recaro seats, the overriding impression is one of docility, a well-damped ride and ease of use on the road. Great: despite the dramatic looks it's a Porsche you can use. But push just a little harder and its character really starts to shine through. That ample performance (0-60mph in 6.1sec, top speed 158mph) and sublimely poised handling and communicative steering begin to dominate the senses, ramming home the point that the Club Sport has been honed to deliver the maximum of sensations to its driver – a rare quality in a car sold during the 1990s.
Its sheer dynamic brilliance also proves once and for all that Porsche's policy of evolution, rather than revolution, works beyond compare. Because it was the last of the line, the 968 remains the most accomplished 944 of them all, a fact that's reflected in market values. The best Club Sports (and the even rarer UK-only Sports, that kept a few of the luxuries the Club Sport did without) have shifted up from the $24,000 point of just three years ago to sit above $30,000 and even $40,000. Just as they have with BMW's E30 M3, people have clearly been voting with their wallets.
Sure, if you've got that kind of money and you want to buy an icon – and the 968 Club Sport is certainly that – go ahead. Octane's choice might be the Turbo S, though with only 13 built over a short period in 1993, the market is hardly flooded with them. But the genesis of the 968's greatness goes all the way back to that early, slimlinebodied 924. And the 944 offers fabulous hunting territory.
Your starting date is 1981 so you'll be looking for a car that's either been cherished or restored – and period charm means that cars of this era will certainly start climbing the value charts before long. Starting price for excellent cars is $8,000; add $4,700 for the extremely quick Turbos from 1985. We're talking 2.5- and 2.7-liter cars here.
The 3.0-liter 944S2 from 1989 offers much more 911-like performance (149mph and 0-60mph from its 208bhp fourcylinder) and there are still plenty of cars around in good, original, unmolested order, looked after by specialists for enthusiasts who appreciate the cars' designed-in toughness. Just $10,000 buys an S2 with performance and handling that approaches that of the 968 Club Sport; and that's a bargain in comparison with the minimum $23,000 you'd need to buy any decent kind of 911. By which we mean a hardtop with manual transmission, not some dodgy 1970s Sportomatic. In brown.
Sacrilege? Hardly. Not when we've been talking about 968 Club Sports whose values eclipse those of certain aircooled Porsches. Proof, if any were needed, that it's time we recognised these front-engined, water-cooled Porsches for what they really are: fantastic cars in their own right that sit alongside the 911 with acutely different appeal.
It seems astonishing now that Porsche developed, honed and perfected the 924, 928, 944 and 968 to achieve dynamic perfection, only to let the front-engined sub-species die in 1995 – yes, we're deliberately ignoring today's Cayenne and Panamera. Drive a late 928 or 968 and it's clear that there were probably years of development left in them – they're both outstanding in a way that few of their contemporaries (either from the mid- '70s or the mid-'90s) could ever dream of.
But die they did, in order to make way for the equally fabulous (yet very different) Boxster – leaving us with a front-engined legacy that many enthusiasts still fail to appreciate fully. The truth is that all of these cars are brilliant in one way or another, and whether it's the laggy thrust of a 924 Turbo you crave, the relaxed woofle of an early 928 that does it for you, or the sheer dynamic achievement of a 968 that lights your fire, you can buy safe in the knowledge that you're signed-up to an extended period with some of Porsche's finest-ever products.
Forget the notion that these cars are still shaded by the 911. The front-engined Porsches have emerged as classics in their own right, and are more than capable of casting some very long shadows of their own.
Thanks to owners Graham Guinn, Phil and Claire Hughes, Richard Salmons; The Independent Porsche Enthusiasts Club, www.tipec.net.
The 924 family
The value choice
Porsche 924 (1975-1985)
If you fancied a practical, purpose-built four-cylinder sports coupe in the 1970s, this was your best bet. And if today you fancy a practical, purpose-built four-cylinder sports coupe, it's probably still your best bet. Porsche's recipe mixes Audi power with VAG parts bin bits to better effect than that Austin A60 coupe with Morris Marina power…
The practical choice
Porsche 924S (1986-1988)
Youngest of the 924s, and so much better to drive than the original thanks to its smoother, more potent engine. And – at last – it's 100% Porsche following the exorcism of that old Audi lump. Just think, if the 924 had had a Porsche engine from the start, would there ever have been such a debate over whether it was a real Porsche or not?
The performance choice
924 Turbo (1979-1982)
By the late '70s Porsche was experienced in turbocharging – and adding a turbo realised the 924's potential. With close to 170bhp, it is a genuinely quick sports coupe, so long as you can put up with the lag. Performance? Try 140mph-plus. It's a more convincing all-rounder than the standard 924.
The investment choice
Porsche 924 Carrera GT/GTR/GTS (1980)
Developed to take the 924 into Group 4 racing, the Carrera GT emerged as one of the industry's finest-ever homologation specials. GTR offered 280bhp, while the GTS was honed for rallying. Fast, fantastically desirable, and only 406 built in total, making that '73 911 Carrera RS look common.
The 928 family
The value choice
Porsche 928S (1980-1986)
Traded the styling purity of the original 928 for an extra 300cc and 60bhp, plus firmer suspension. Result? Much more of a sporting driver's choice. A 5.0-liter 32-valve version arrived in the USA in 1985, with European models following a year later – and it was the arrival of the new cylinder head that unlocked the potential of Porsche's fine aluminium V8.
The practical choice
Porsche 928S4 (1987-1991)
Porsche had more than a decade's experience of building the 928 when it evolved into the S4 – and suddenly the recipe was right. Near-supercar performance, improved aerodynamics and a thuggish V8 soundtrack allied to rugged build quality and almost Mercedes levels of refinement. Plenty around in superb condition; the 928 for the owner/driver.
The performance choice
Porsche 928GT/GTS (1991-1995)
The GT arrived as a tweaked (manual gearbox only) 928S4, but it was the sister GTS that would emerge as the ultimate driver's option. The GTS had 350bhp and a 5.4-liter V8 for a top speed of 175mph. Stiffened suspension and damping and wider tyres on 17in Cup alloys mean it's easily the most sporting of the bunch.
The investment choice
Porsche 928 (1978-1982)
With its unadorned styling, tele-dial alloy wheels, Pascha trim and easy-going 240bhp V8, it was a characterful GT and offers the most period charm of any 928 today. Yes, the GTS will always be more expensive – but there's far more room for appreciation here. The purist's choice.
The 944-968 family
The value choice
Porsche 944 (1982-1991)
A well-judged move, effectively combining Porsche's smooth new engine with a pumped-up body. The original 2.5-liter eight-valve engine was uprated to 2.7 liters in 1989 for additional torque and power – and even more fun. Amazing performance, handling and – yes – pedigree for the money. Early cars are now starting to gain a period charm, too.
The practical choice
Porsche 944S/S2 (1987-1991)
A 16-valve head released more power and revs from what was already a brilliant engine. Uprated suspension and wider wheels meant more absolute grip, to make the most of the extra performance. Cabrio arrived in 1989, as did 3.0-liter S2 with 211bhp – and the world's largest production four-cylinder. Tough, usable, plentiful.
The performance choice
Porsche 944 Turbo/Turbo S (1985-1991)
With 220bhp from launch, the 2.5-liter 944 Turbo was well on the way to outgunning the 911 Carrera – especially given its benign and balanced handling. Limited volume Turbo S followed in 1988, upping the stakes to 250bhp and over 155mph. Fast and pretty much irresistible.
The investment choice
Porsche 968/Turbo/Turbo S (1992-1995)
New designation for Porsche's last-of-line 944 was as much about sales as it was signifying the upgrades from the 944. Offered in coupe and cabriolet form. Coupe-only 1992 Club Sport and 1993 Turbo S (with 305bhp) remain the most hardcore – and the most likely to appreciate further.
Published Dec 7th, 2015


text: These results are supplied to the ABC under license by Cadability Pty Ltd. Cadability Pty Ltd relies upon information supplied by a number of external sources. Content is supplied on the basis that while Cadability Pty Ltd believes all the information in it will be correct at the time of publication, it does not warrant its accuracy or completeness. Always confirm information supplied with listed venues and organisers and institutions.


text:
Featured Member | ||
3D TV Reviews - 3D TV News + 3D Movie Reviews 3D TV Reviews brings you latest 3D news and reviews about new 3D television models as they become available. 3D movie reviews by 3D movie fans with a 3D TV also added or updated for you to review. The Final Evolution of TV in 3 Dimensions is here to Stay! |
Statistics | Top USA Sites 1-25 | Top USA Sites 26-50 | Top USA Sites 51-75 | Top USA Sites 76-100
| Top USA Sites 101-125 | Top USA Sites 126-150 | Top USA Sites 151-175 | Top USA Sites 176-200
The Top 10 Ranked American Web Sites can display description with a banner.
American Web Sites ranked from 11-25 can display description, but no banner.
American Web Sites ranked 26+ on extra pages with description, but no banner.
Featured American Web Site (chosen at random) has description with a banner.
Click to Listen to Our :30 Radio Commercial! |
TopSitesAmerica.com 99/100 Score = Top 1% |
Scan by Smart Phone to save web address! |
RSS Feed of Top 10 Top Sites of America Web Sites List Members! (All 50 States in USA Overall)
Script Execution Time: 0.14661 | SQL Queries: 5 | Members: 184 | 50 of 50 United States
Join Us Top Sites of America Web Sites List
- Powered by Aardvark Topsites PHP 5.1.2
Copyright © . All rights reserved.


text:
A very good friend of mine sent me this description of a journey he took from Vancouver to Seattle. He had to clear US Customs and Immigration at the train station in Vancouver, before boarding the train.
At the Amtrak train station in Vancouver, I was passing through the US border inspection with my bike.
At the lineup control:
Guard 1: "Where's your helmet?"
Me: "It's at home."
G1: "Why don't you have it?"
Me: "I won't be needing it on this trip."
G1: "Why not?"
Me: "Because it won't be necessary for my type of biking."
G1: "So, you plan on breaking the law?"
Me: "Ummm... what law?"
... then I'm waved over the inspection desk ...
Guard 2: "Where are you going?"
Me: "Seattle"
G2: "Where's your helmet?"
Me: "I didn't bring it."
G2: "You ride without one?"
Me: "Depends on the situation."
G2: "Are you aware that it's the law in the state of Washington?" (Ed: It's not, he's wrong)
Me: "I wasn't aware of this."
G2: "So, you were planning to break the law on purpose?"
Me: "I had no intention of doing so."
G2: "Do you think I should let you in to my country knowing that you intend on breaking the law?"
Me: "Ummm... I assume 'no?'"
G2: "Don't assume; the answer is NO. How do I know you aren't going to commit other crimes?"
Me: "I understand. So what is your decision?"
G2: "I'm going to let you thorough on the condition that upon arrival you purchase a helmet. If you are cited for biking without a helmet, I will know because I'm going to check your file later today. If that's the case, you will have trouble entering the US again."
Me: "Thank you, I'll buy a helmet."
So, all in all, I boarded the train scared, rattled and angry. I didn't know how to handle myself and I never expected anything like it. I wondered if he was bluffing, but I wasn't going to risk anything seeing as I need to re-enter the US on other business throughout the year. Upon arrival, I went to a LBS to consider a helmet and the store guy said at least half of his friends have been cited for not having a helmet--but he doesn't use one if he can help it. There are plenty of painted bike lanes everywhere. I bought a helmet. But I felt more than ever that my side of the planet needs serious help. So. It begs the question. Do US Border Police harass every motorist entering the country? "I can see on your speedometer than your car is capable of exceeding US and State speed limits." "Um. Yes." "Are you aware that exceeding the speed limit is against the law?" "Really?" "Do you think I should let you in to my country knowing that you are driving a car capable of breaking the speed limit?" Do they check their files later in the day? Nah.
This is police stupidity. Ignoring the Bull so blatantly that it hurts. On their website the tagline is "Securing America's Borders..." Yeah, right.
Together with Chicago's ridiculous new pedestrian flags this week, I too, wonder how liveable cities free of automotive tyranny will ever gain purchase in some regions. Sigh.


text:
- Collection
- 1842-1942
Fonds consists of plans of buildings and properties pertaining to the University of Toronto, including original drawings by Thomas Young of proposed University College buildings described as the Centre Building, East Wing and West Wing (ca 1842-1857); original drawings by Cumberland and Storm of University College (ca 1856-1857); original drawings by David B. Dick, Architect of Moss Hall (ca. 1887), Biological Building (ca 1887) Museum (1889), Students Union Gymnasium (1892), restoration of University College and New Library Building (ca 1890-1892), Chemical Laboratory (1893-1894), Old Wycliffe College Building (n.d.), and other working drawings. Many drawings annotated with date 1922 by J.C. B. Horwood.
Horwood and White


text:
Linux Mint
Linux Mint is a popular choice for users wanting an easy-to-use modern OS. This elegant distribution requires minimal user configuration, and is therefore a solid choice for users wanting an OS that works 'out of the box'. Due to its friendly interface and low maintenance, this robust distribution is ideal for those new to Linux systems.Linux Mint 13 desktop |
Debian is a more basic OS founded on the Linux kernel. This distribution is well suited for those looking for a well-rounded productivity suite. There are several software bundles available to choose from, providing users with a plethora of programs for everything from word processing to programming. For a reliable, no-frills operating system, Debian is a worthwhile option.Fedora
Sponsored by Red Hat, Fedora is part of a worldwide open-source community. This OS benefits from regular updates, and a constant flow of new and innovative software. The Fedora OS is based around three core values; freedom, features and friends.Fedora upholds the gold standard of free open-source software. Providing alternatives to proprietary code, it enables users to access many free pieces of software. This allows users to benefit from paid-quality programs whilst keeping the distribution free of charge.
This Linux distribution is perfect for those wanting to benefit from state of the art OS technology, without breaking the bank.
This minimalist distribution focuses on simplicity and functionality. Arch does require some configuration upon installation in order to be tailored to the user's specific requirements. This may be off-putting to novice users, who want a more straight forward installation process. For those who don't mind getting their hands dirty however, Arch can prove to be a simply excellent operating system.Ubuntu
A superb all round operating system, Ubuntu is one of the most popular Linux distributions available. Unlike some other versions of Linux, there isn't a two-tier system with regards to quality between its commercial and free releases. This means that a high standard can be expected across the board. With its easy to use and intuitive user interface, Ubuntu makes for great user experience. Ideal for beginners and seasoned Linux users alike, Ubuntu caters for everyone.Ubuntu 12.04 desktop |
Through the world of Linux, there are many great alternatives to the more mainstream operating systems. The open-source model is truly something special; software is tailored to meet the demands of an ever expanding user base. There are distributions for those who like to get into the inner workings of their computers, and others for those who want everything already taken care of. With such a vast array of options, there is bound to be a form of Linux to suit everyone.Do you want to try any of these distributions? Majority of them is listed for sale on Buy Linux CDs site, with others available on request via the contact form.
By Bradley Houston
Image credits: Wikipedia 1 & 2.


text:
For the back of the quilt I 'sacrificed' some pieces from my Sherbet Pips Layer Cake which adds a little interest to the otherwise solid (Rober Kaufman Kona Cotton ~ Ash) quilt back. The great thing about a solid quilt back is that it really makes the quilting lines stand out. As you can see I have quilted both straight and way lines without any regular repeat.
Happy browsing,


text:
| ||||||||||||||||||
Do you like this website? Please let me know your opinions by emailing me or contacting me via MSN on email@example.com Random Perspective: News, Satire and Humour. Random Stuff for those who read this far: Oak Worktops and Walnut Worktops, Bespoke Designer Kitchens, Fruit Videos, FruitVideos Blog, Norfolk Wedding Photography, and Lowestoft Estate Agent |


text:
It is my firm belief that mothers do not need one specific day to celebrate their being! Mother's should be celebrated every day of the year. They should be praised and idealized for their love, sacrifices, inspiration, motivation and protection. But we do have a special day to celebrate the unconditional love of a woman who calls herself a Mother.
So, I want to send out all my best wishes to the Mothers out there and congratulate you for your hard work you put into your child and for the sacrifices you make for the well being. Sometimes it goes unnoticed and maybe taken for granted – but without you we are nothing.
I want to dedicate this post in particular to my own mother. A strong-willed, sometimes stubborn, always loving and eternally giving lady. You have taught me so much in life mum – and through you I aspire to be the best mother in the world for my own child – just like you have been and still are to Sunny and me!
For you mum - and all other mothers a little story …
The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
Once there was a tree
and she loved a little boy.
And everyday the boy would come
and he would gather her leaves
and make them into crowns and play king of the forest.
And when he was tired, he would sleep in her shade.
And the boy loved the tree … very much.
And the tree was happy.
But time went by.
And the boy grew older.
And the tree was often alone.
Then one day the boy came to the tree and the tree said, "Come, Boy, come and climb up my trunk and swing from my branches and eat my apples and play in my shade and be happy."
"I am too big to climb and play," said the boy.
"I want to buy things and have fun.
I want some money. Can you give me some money?"
"I'm sorry," said the tree, "but I have no money, I have only leaves and apples. Take my apples, Boy, and sell them in the city. Then you will have money and you will be happy."
And so the boy climbed up the tree and gathered her apples and carried them away.
And the tree was happy.
But the boy stayed away for a long time…
and the tree was sad.
And then one day the boy came back and the tree shook with joy and she said,
"Come, Boy, climb up my trunk and swing from my branches and be happy."
"I am too busy to climb trees," said the boy.
"I want a house to keep me warm," he said
"I want a wife and I want children, and so I need a house. Can you give me a house?"
"I have no house," said the tree.
"The forest is my house, but you can cut off my branches and build a house.
Then you will be happy."
But the boy stayed away for a long time.
And when he came back, the tree was so happy she could hardly speak.
"Come, Boy," she whispered, "come and play."
"I am too old and sad to play," said the boy.
"I want a boat that will take me far away from here.
Can you give me a boat?"
"Cut down my trunk and make a boat," said the tree.
"Then you can sail away and be happy."
And the tree was happy…
but not really.
And after a long time the boy came back again.
"I am sorry, Boy," said the tree, "but I have nothing left to give you -
My apples are gone."
"My teeth are too weak for apples," said the boy.
My branches are gone," said the tree. "You cannot swing on them-"
"I am too old to swing on branches,"said the boy.
"My trunk is gone," said the tree. "You cannot climb-"
"I am to tired to climb," said the boy.
"I am sorry," sighed the tree. "I wish that I could give you something …
but I have nothing left. I am just an old stump. I am sorry …"
"I don't need very much now." said the boy, "just a quiet place to sit and rest. I am very tired."
"Well,"said the tree, straightening herself up as much as she could, "well, an old stump is good for sitting and resting. Come, Boy, sit down. Sit down and rest."
And the boy did.
And the tree was happy.
Note: This is not a reproduction of the whole book.
Like the tree, mothers always manage to give – even when they think there is nothing to give. They sacrifice their own self for the happiness of the ones they love. Hope each one of you enjoyed the special day!
My treat for any special day and a perfect way to show a loved one how you feel are these fluffy buckwheat pancakes with the added accent of creamy cottage cheese and a touch of thyme.
Fluffy Buckwheat Cottage Cheese Pancakes with a touch of Thyme
Printable version of recipe here.
65g unbleached flour
65g buckwheat flour
225g cottage cheese
4 eggs
Small sprig of thyme, chopped
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
2 tablespoons muscovado sugar
120ml milk
2 tablespoons canola oil
- Mix both flours, baking soda, salt, sugar and chopped thyme in a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together cottage cheese, eggs, milk and oil until smooth.
- Add dry ingredients to the cheese-eggs mixture, whisking until everything is incorporated and well mixed.
- Brush a non-stick pan with some oil and heat over medium heat. Using a ladle or a quarter measuring cup, drop batter into the hot pan.
- Cook for a few minutes until the bottom of the pancake is browned and golden. Flip the pancake and continue to cook until this side is also golden. Adjust the heat accordingly.
- Prepare the rest of the batter in the same way.
Serve with maple syrup, or a variety of preserves, jams or jellies like a fig and ginger preserve or a mango strawberry jam.
The pancakes will also taste great with this exquisite Pear Cranberry Chutney Spiced with Star Anise or a tangy homemade lemon curd.
Really decadent would be a serving with some dulce de leche.
It's not often that we indulge in such breakfasts but when we do we enjoy every last delectable bite soaked in rich syrup and jeweled with fresh fruit or berries. These are very different to the usual pancakes. The cottage cheese gives this a creamy texture and a highlights it with it's slightly slightly tangy aroma. Go for the creamier cottage cheese with small curd for a smoother and richer taste. The buckwheat flour gives it a a slightly rougher texture and adds a great nutty flavor. Adding thyme was a last minute stellar decision as I had to use up the herb. It added a great lemony slightly peppery touch which worked brilliantly with the sweeter syrup or jam.
Just a few more days till the Monthly Mingle – Spring Cake deadline. It's going to be a grand mingle with a celebration of gorgeous strawberries, pineapples, lemons, raspberries and other tasty flavors. Make sure you join us with one of your Spring cake creations. See you there!
You might like these breakfast ideas from WFLH:
Sticky Cinnamon Buns | Spicy Egg and Mushroom Roll | Whole Wheat Pancakes with Mangoes and Nutella |
From around the blogs:
- Cinnamon Polenta Pancakes - Lucullian Delights
- Nut and Grain Pancakes – The Noshery
- Chocolate Pancakes with Chocolate Sauce –Daemon's Food
Daily Tiffin Reading Tip:
Spring Vegetables: Rhubarb written by Andrea
All photographs and written content on What's For Lunch, Honey? © 2006-2009 Meeta Khurana unless otherwise indicated. | All rights reserved | Please Ask First


text:
With a simple misspelling?
A grandiose promotion?
Or do you want to give her a little pep talk?
Maybe your Mom is a fan of reeeeally long sweat socks. Or albino snakes. Or long, free-floating bear arms. Or whatever the heck these are:
Or maybe your mother's always wanted one of those cool purse cakes:
And, you know, you hate her.
(Whoah, is that the super deluxe pipe-cleaner handle I see? Score!!)
If you really can't decide, though, "patently bizarre" is always a sure-fire crowd pleaser:
Although this would probably get you one of those patronizing cheek pats and a "Aw, you always did have such imagination, dear."
Or maybe you want to get something for both your grandmother and your spouse's grandmother, like Michelle P.'s friend Jim did. He asked for it to say "Love to two grandmothers."
Instead, they got something both "hilarious and mortifying":
Well, I'm sure it was memorable.
Robyn O., Chris K., Tracy C., Katrina M., Lisa F., & Iny, you have some tough choices ahead of you. Now go out there and make me proud! (Oh, and be sure to send pics.)


text:
Keep your launcher cool and updated!
Stock UI – Icon Pack
- 1200+ HD icons (144×144) (Growing with REGULAR UPDATES)
- Icon Mask for other icons
- 30 Fantastic HD Wallpapers included and 1000+ at the link
- for Apex Only: Sense 5 font
- for Nova: 16 Dock Styles that you can select in settings
- Unicon (Icon Themer) Support – You Can Set Icons with ALL Launchers!
- Included in icon picker 18 Drawer icons to apply manually
- Simple! First of all, be sure you've installed one compatible launcher, then open the app and click on Apply Theme, select your launcher and complete the action… Et voilà… New life to your style!
- Recommended Settings: icon size-> 110% , no margins or small & Dock Icons Size – Small
- Works ONLY with following Launchers: Nova, Apex, Holo, Adw, ActionPRO,GO Launcher
- For other launchers except Apex, to have folder icons working you have to set it manually in launcher's settings … you'll find it as first icon when browsing the icons of pack
What's New
- – New Icons (3000+ Reached!)
- – Activity Fixes
- – Thanks for your support
Requires Android:2.3.3 and Up