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There seems to be a lot of confusion over what the word "theory" means, and justifiably so. Depending on its context, the word can mean different things.
- A theory in common, colloquial usage means a tentative hypothesis.
- A theory in science means an explanation of how something works, backed by evidence.
- A theory in theoretical physics is a mathematical model describing how something might work.
Hope this clears it up.
(Also, the Big Bang theory isn't theoretical physics; it's astronomy :P)
Theoretical physics theories like the Big Bang Theory and String Theory should really be considered theories rather than hypotheses. While they do seem like they are hypotheses, trying to prove the origins of the universe is a very hard thing to do, so they should be considered theories because they are very hard to actually experiment with.
String and big bang theories are theories for sure because scientists cannot use the scientific method to verify what is true or not regarding the makeup of the early universe. A hypothesis can attempt to be proven using empirical data. Unfortunately, even our best telescopes cannot see the actual big bang to gather information. Until astronomers and cosmologists get a glimpse of the very early universe, the big bang is just a theory that fits the current knowledge we have about the universe.


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Letters to the Editor
Dear Editor:
I want to encourage former and future Manistique Area Schools band students and parents to attend a school board meeting to request that the board and administration continue exploring all options for restoring band. In conversations I've had with board members and Mr. Shiner, I have been very pleased to hear that they are all committed to re-establishing a band program as soon as possible. They also ideally hope to include elementary students again in instrumental music.
The board needs to hear from us as parents and students to know that they have our support and interest. The next board meeting is this Monday, Feb. 18 at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room of the high school. The March meeting is Monday, March 18.
Please feel free to contact me at 341-2965 if you have questions or would be interested in meeting together to see if there is any way we can offer our services as parents, students and community members to help make band a reality again in Manistique. I would like to extend an extra word of encouragement to Emerald students and parents to become involved. Research and our community's own experiences show that music education is a huge academic and social boost for students of all ages.
Sincerely, Heidi L. Troyer
Dear Editor,
I am responding to a recent news article entitled, wolf hunt. The DNR is asking both sides to back off. Fat chance. That is because there is a fundamental philosophical difference between hunters and trappers who support scientific wildlife management and those who oppose the killing of animals.
Wolves are no different than any other game and furbearing species. Management is best accomplished in the most cost effective way by regulated hunting and trapping seasons.
Russ Mason, Chief of the DNR Wildlife Division, is spot on with most of his comments. However, he is equivocating on whether or not to hold a wolf hunt, which contradicts what he said otherwise. Either you are going to manage the animals or you are not. I detest political wimps.
Failure to do their job is a slap in the face to the Legislature and the Governor who signed the law classifying the Wolf as a game species and authorizing the NRC to set harvest seasons. The legislative intent is clear.
Indian tribes and the animal rights/animal protectionists are trying to dictate public policy, yet failed to ante up to pay for it. Unfortunately, sportsmen and women were not consulted, nor given any say, about the up to one million dollars of our money that is spent annually on wolves. Call it arrogance of power.
The Wolf management Roundtable had ten stakeholder groups and the DNR, each with two votes, for a total of 22. Because they didn't want their pets killed, they decreed that all policy decisions be by consensus instead of majority vote. That denied the majority of stakeholders the benefit of their input and hard work. In other words, the DNR stacked the deck. Subsequently, a proposal to allow public hunting and trapping was defeated by the consensus rule. The vote was 16 in favor and 6 against.
This politically motivated rule resulted in a deeply flawed wolf management plan. Instead of active management, they respond to depredation complaints. Otherwise they just monitor and protect the animals. While the plan provides for lethal controls, it isn't without a lot of if's, ands or buts.
They recently reconvened the Wolf Management Advisory Council of former Wolf Management Roundtable members. Because I am outspoken, I was told I was not invited to participate.
As for a meaningful wolf hunt, don't count on it. Political correctness is alive and well in the DNR.
John Hongisto
Deerton, Mich.
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in life is nevar planned nor does it happen for a reason ,but when love is real , becomes ur plan for life and ur reason for living. i wonna be ur reason for livin
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St. Francis of Assisi is accredited with creating the first nativity scene in 1223, albeit a "live" one using humans and animals. His intention: to cultivate the worship of Christ, or the Babe of Bethlehem, as St. Francis called him in his tribute, according to St. Bonaventure. (CERC)
For 27 years, The Folk Tree has invited artists from all over the world to exhibit works—their creative interpretations of the nativity scene. Besides these varying crèche, there will be ornaments, seasonal decor, and accessories for purchase—all the decorations you need for a uniquely artistic holiday.
The Spaniards transported the custom of focusing on nativity scenes to the Americas in the sixteenth century. Today, the annual unpacking and arranging of often large and elaborate nativities is an important Christmas event for many Latin American families.
Examples from Mexico include carved and painted wood and black and brown ware clay miniatures no larger than one's thumb. On an even smaller scale, some nativities are created inside painted walnut shells. Self-contained collapsible tin nativity sets, small scenes placed in decoratively painted boxes and others made from straw and colorful ceramics are also on view from Mexico.
Other countries are represented by nativities created in textiles, candy wrappers (Poland), recycled oil drums (Haiti), match boxes (Peru), painted wood (India), and carved wood (Africa).
27th Annual International Nativities Exhibition
Opening reception, Sat. Nov. 16th, 2-6 p.m.
Exhibit runs through Tuesday, Dec. 31st
The Folk Tree, 217 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena 91105
For more info, visit FolkTree.com or call 626.795.8733
Lead photo, top right: Owl Nativity with Wise Men by Ulla Anobile. Owls are 5″ tall; hand stitched felt, embroidery floss, polyfill, beads, and sequins.


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Member of the Mystery Writers of America and Sisters in Crime, Terry Shames shares The Last Death of Jack Harbin: A Samuel Craddock Mystery, a gritty story of small-town loyalties and betrayals set in Jarrett Creek, Texas. When the Gulf War separates two high school friends, the war veteran's homecoming brings about reconciliation efforts. But before the friends can reconnect a murderer strikes, and it is up to the slain man's friend to solve the crime. . .
Event date:
Wednesday, January 15, 2014 - 7:00pm
Event address:
1760 4th St
Event Terms:


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1577 Days! More than 4 years after losing the Ashes, Australia produced an absolutely thumping display, led admirably and fittingly, by Mitchell Johnson to reclaim the coveted urn by taking an unassailable 3-0 series with a fighting 150-run victory at Perth.
Coming into the 2nd session on the final day, England still had a chance, albeit miniscule, to rally around Ben Stokes and Tim Bresnan, who had batted beautifully in the first essay, and maybe push for a win. Alastair Cook's side had showed some admirable fight in the first session and some more of the same would have pushed the match into a more nervy ending.
Nathan Lyon, however, had other ideas. The right-armer needed only 8 deliveries to wipe out all but the most stoutest of England supporters' hopes as he had the centurion Stokes edge behind to Brad Haddin to depart for a sublime 120. In his next over, Lyon had his England counterpart Graeme Swann out caught at forward-short-leg for 4 to leave Australia 2 wickets short of regaining, perhaps, the biggest prize in Australian cricket.
Mitchell Johnson, fittingly, wrapped up the proceeding for the hosts as he had Tim Bresnan superbly caught at mid-on by Chris Rogers before getting Jimmy Anderson to give an easy catch to George Bailey at FSL to spark wild and emotional celebrations.
Earlier, Ben Stokes notched up his maiden Test century, which was also England's first of the series, to keep the Ashes alive into the final afternoon at the WACA. Stokes and Matt Prior continued the tourists' belated defiance on a pitch full of crazy-paving cracks, in the third Test of a series they already trail 2-0.
Even on a lunchtime 332 for six, in notional pursuit of a world-record 504 to win or in the hope of eking out their remaining wickets for two more sessions, England were long odds-on favourites to lose here and therefore concede the Ashes.
Stokes, however, was determined to go down fighting in only his second Test and was justly rewarded with a memorable and chanceless century. The 22-year-old left-hander played admirably straight throughout, and struck the ball powerfully off either foot, both on the fourth evening with Ian Bell and Prior then and again through a taxing morning.
It was to Stokes and Prior's great credit that they had come through the first hour, with much skill and plenty of luck essential too as Australia bowled especially well and honed in on the myriad cracks with the old ball. Both players therefore played and missed plenty, but kept out the straight ones and cashed in on the rare occasion of anything loose.
Prior was gone by the time Stokes reached his hundred, with a hook fine off Mitchell Johnson for his 16th four from the 159th ball he faced. The sixth-wicket pair had put on 76 when Prior played only his second false shot of the morning, and paid for it, edging Johnson behind as he aimed to hit some width on the up past point.
Stokes was into the 90s by the time the second new ball was taken, and immediately Harris hit a crack which - not for the first time - diverted the delivery at an impossible angle, but mercifully wide of off stump. But Tim Bresnan, who batted better than most in England's faulty first innings, accompanied Stokes past his century and to lunch.


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Have you been to Hartbeespoort in North West Province? Let us know how you enjoyed your visit to the Hartbeespoort Dam region and what you thought of the attractions, restaurants and accommodation options in Hartbeespoort.
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July 2015
An amazing outing. Tranquil settings and unbelievable accommodation.
Greens and fairways were well maintained. Food at halfway house was superb.
A splendid weekend away to recharge the batteries.
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The Wimes – God Saved A Jewel
Celebrating their upcoming the release of their fist CD release The Wimes are breaking new ground and bringing things back to basics; the family. In our culture today we are facing the tearing down of the very things that have made us strong and next to our faith the family is really coming under fire.
With their release of "God Saved a Jewel" we are reminded of the value our Heavenly Father places on each one of us. We are not just numbers or creations that are placed on a shelf to be forgotten, we are God's jewels. We are valued and loved beyond human comprehension.
Be looking for more from this precious family as they begin their exciting journey to spread the love of Jesus to those who are hurting and broken.


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This thread is for those die hard Ejami fans who can't bear to watch as the non-Ejami fans bash the couple.
While we allow character bashing on Soaps.com, I have decided that it's time we have a special thread for fans to post without worrying about the whole Ejami vs Lumi vs Safe debate.
There will also be one for Lumi fans. This means we expect to see less Ejami threads and less Lumi threads and more threads about the rest of the cast!! :)
This means NO BASHING RAFE OR LUCAS in this thread.


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When a stupid person thinks too long about something they come up with worse views than what is generally accepted. When smart people think things through they come to better conclusions than what is generally accepted. Stupid people take christianity that is generally accepted think about it too long sometimes and take away the gospels and keep the god concept and add racism and all their likes and dislikes to it. Smart people are smart enough to know what is fair if they think long enough and come to get rid of racism the idea of a cruel all around horrible god and things that are generally accepted to have better more fair views.
"Stupid" people and "smart" people are both equally capable of either over-thinking things, or not thinking things through. There are plenty of "smart" people who tend to complicate simple issues, and there are plenty of "stupid" people who don't use critical thought enough. Finally, blindly accepting any information is possibly the stupidest thing that a "smart" person can do.


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This I Believe
I believe that everyone, being human, makes mistakes. As children, mistakes were quickly forgiven and each mistake was a small learning experience. Perhaps the most important learning experience is learning to take personal responsibility for our mistakes. Mistakes should still be forgiven and used as a learning experience, but first people need to admit they did something wrong. Many people expect their mistakes to be treated just like they were when they were kids. More unfortunately, they often are treated like they were when they were children. If they're not immediately forgiven, some just deny that they did anything wrong at all. If one cannot admit they've done something wrong, they'll never learn from it.
It seems as a rule, people are too proud to admit they did something wrong. I consider this a serious character flaw. No one can learn and improve if they don't have anything to improve upon. The main reason people don't admit to their mistakes is because they don't want to appear foolish. In reality, if they admitted their mistake, learned from it, and didn't do the same thing again in the future, they would look wiser. No one can spend their entire life being treated like a child and being allowed to get away with any mistake. In 2001, at the age of 9, I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. This was a fairly young age to be diagnosed and it put a lot of pressure on me to be more mature than the other kids. Any mistake or error could have a serious effect on my health. No matter how old I got there was still that possibility of something going wrong. A couple years later, I had a serious hypoglycemic episode and actually had a small seizure. It was all solved relatively easily with a shot, but it gave us all a scare. This was all because of a miscalculation of the insulin I needed. I had to take ownership for this and make sure it never happened again. People should be mature and take ownership for what they do. If they act mature, they will be treated like a mature person. You only get what you give: if you act mature and admit to your mistakes, you will be treated maturely and others may even admit their mistakes. Many successful people have said they learned more from their failures than from their successes.
Every person that has existed throughout time and everyone that will exist in the future have made and will make mistakes. As long as people keep denying that what they've done is wrong, no one will be able to get along. The entire base of a perfect world relies on its people and if no one can take ownership for mistakes that they have made, the world will never be perfect. This I believe.
If you enjoyed this essay, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to This I Believe, Inc.


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The Sutton Place Hotel
September 21, 2016 – September 23, 2016
Acoustics Week in Canada (AWC16) will be chaired by Kathy Pichora-Fuller and Clair Wakefield and held at the Sutton Place Hotel Vancouver in downtown Vancouver (BC), September 21-23, 2016.
Acoustics researchers, professionals, educators, and students are welcomed to Vancouver for three days of plenary lectures and technical sessions. The Canadian Acoustical Association Annual General Meeting will be held in conjunction with the conference, along with the Acoustical Standards Committee Meeting, the conference reception, the conference banquet, and an exhibition of acoustical equipment and services.
The Sutton Place Hotel is a short walk from the Robson Street shopping area, the Pacific Centre (Vancouver's Premier shopping destination), the Vancouver Art Gallery and Stanley Park with its over 1000 acres of land where you can visit the Vancouver Aquarium or enjoy walks in the forest, on the beach or along the 20 km Seawall.
Thank you to our sponsors/exhibitors.
Wednesday Evening Technical Tours & Self-guided tourism
Two technical tours will be hosted on Wednesday evening prior to the reception. Please see the tour flyer for more information. Note, conference attendees wishing to join either tour must sign up at the registration desk on Wednesday morning.
If you anticipate some spare time in you schedule and would like to explore the area yourself, we invite you to visit the Guelph Tourism website for a comprehensive presentation of local attractions.
|Posted: 2017-10-05
Exhibition - GKM Consultants
|Looks like the annoucements guy missed announcing when GKM consultants joined our exhibitor list! Sorry GKM, and welcome to the exhibition.
|Posted: 2017-09-25
Exhibition list is finalized
|With the addition of Isotech Industries, and Siemens PLM Software to the Acoustics Week in Canada 2017 exhibition hall, the final two tables have been filled. Conference registrants will have plenty of interesting exhibitors to visit, with this being one of the largest AWC exhibits in recent history. The organizing committee would like to encourage you to take the time to visit the exhibition, and to patronize these companies who are supporting the conference.
|Posted: 2017-09-20
|More Announcements...
Conference Information
(c) 2015-2016, Canadian Acoustical Association. All right reserved.


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Chenille Cotton sofa fabric
Design No.: H960-3A
Width: 145cm
Composition: Polyester 25%,Acrylic 39%,Cotton18%,Rayon 18%
Brandname: Lucky Ray
Minimum order: 300meters
Packing: waterproof plastic bag inner, poly bag outer or as your requirement, rolled on strong tube and in 40 to 50 meters per roll.
Delivery: 40 days after order confirmed and deposit paid
Payment: T/T or L/C at sight.
Port : From Shangha port
Copyright © 2010 Wholesale lots. All rights reserved. Contact Us:email@example.com
Processed in 0.12069 second(s)


text: With similar engines, similar power output and coincidently similar fuel efficiency, they still vary from each other on different levels. We are talking about the recently launched small car from the Datsun family, the redi-GO, and the segment leader with outrageous sales since its launch, the Renault Kwid. Watch the comparison.


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Wednesday, May 21, 2014
Tommy Turtle and St. Louis Bear Show
My husband and son have decided to take two workshops the weekend I an going to St. Louis for a bear show.... bowl turning and black smithing. So I am taking the Tommy Turtle workshop the day before the bear show. Art Rogers will be teaching it! I am really looking forward to it.
The workshop is followed by some antiquing in St. Charles and then dinner for all who are in town for the show!! Better than sitting home while Bob and Robb take their classes!!
Posted by Bettina Groh at 9:35 AM No comments:
Monday, May 12, 2014
Another online bear show coming up in June!!
Teddies Worldwide will be hosting an online bear and friend show June 20 - 22nd! Join us?!
I am working on my bears and friends already....
Posted by Bettina Groh at 7:20 PM No comments:
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Illustrations Of Young, Fashionable Girls and Guys
Budget $300-1500 USD
We need MANY (20 to 30) Illustrations of young girls and guys done in the same style as the attached 3 images.
The key is VARIETY -- we want MANY different types of people in different poses, doing different, but they ALL need to look happy, fashionable, young, and hip.
We are willing to pay VERY GOOD money per illustration for a creative and reliable illustrator.
Payment can be negotiated. The key is to show us what you can do.
1) *** PLEASE SHOW SAMPLES that show that you can illustrate in the same or similar style to the attached images. ***
We will ONLY consider those bidders who show us samples emulating the attached images.
2) We also need these to be delivered to us in a digital format (Adobe Photoshop, preferably).
The digital Illustrations should be in a high enough resolution to accomodate for possible printing.
63 freelancers are bidding on average $1036 for this job
Hi! I am really interested in taking up the project. I have the requisite experience and the expertise to complete this project with success. Please view my PM for details. Thanks. Regards, Urmii B Kar.
Hello Sir We are an offshore well established company for about more than five years. We have experienced developers (PHP, ASP, ASP.NET, MYSQL, C# etc.) and those are dedicated in their respective [login to view URL] are 100 More
Hello, I can do this for you and provide high quality illustrations to suit your needs. Please see PM for more information.
we surely can help u with this .pls check PMB. Escrow payment is required. Regards Archana (Aught Bit Technologies)
I'm very much interested and able to start right away sir/ma'am. You can expect nothing but the best quality artwork... Let's start now =) Thanks and have a nice day!
we have full professional, and creative team with new ideas, which will provide u the best results, on time. For more details you can contact us any time 24/7.


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Meritene Strength and Vitality Vegetable Soup, 50g Sachets, Pack of 4
3 for 2 on selected vitamins, supplements, health foods and complimentary medicines - cheapest free
In order to buy non-prescription medicines you must be a registered user of our site as we are obliged to record your transaction history. We also ask that you complete our questionnaire so our pharmacy team can check that this product is suitable for you to buy.
Disabled or chronically sick people can claim VAT relief on purchases for personal or domestic use that are applicable to their disability or sickness.
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Collect 28 Boots Advantage Card points with this purchase
Product details
Vegetable flavoured soup with vitamins, minerals and protein.
- Helps release energy and reduce tiredness*
- Supports muscle mass and maintenance of bones**
- High Quality Protein
- Vitamins: D, C, B2, B6 & B12
- Minerals: Calcium, Potassium, Magnesium, Iron & Zinc
- Gluten free
- Suitable for vegetarians
*Protein contributes to the maintenance of muscle mass and with vitamin D, Magnesium and Calcium to the maintenance of bones.
**Meritene contains Vitamins B2, B6, B12, C and Iron which contribute to normal energy yielding metabolism and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
Meritene also contains Vitamin D, Potassium, Magnesium and Calcium which contribute to normal muscle function, while Zinc and Magnesium
contribute to normal protein synthesis.
It is important to follow a varied and balanced diet as part of an active healthy lifestyle.
How to use
Easy to Prepare
1. Using your favourite mug add the contents of one sachet into 150ml of hot water (max 60°C).
2. Stir vigorously until completely dissolved.
3. Enjoy!
If you are making your Meritene Soup to enjoy later, you can refrigerate it and use within 24hours.
Recommended serving for Meritene is 1 sachet per day which you can take with or between meals.
MERITENE® is specialised nutrition specifically designed to address the needs of adults
Hazards and Cautions
Food Supplements are intended to supplement the diet and should not be substituted for a varied diet or healthy lifestyle.
While every care has been taken to ensure this information is always as accurate as possible, food products are regularly improved and nutrition content may occasionally change. As a result we recommend that you always read the label carefully before using or consuming any products. Nutritional Reference Value (NRV) information is based on the typical composition of the product. Guideline daily amounts are those for a typical adult (men and women).NRV information for non Boots products is calculated by the manufacturer. Boots has no control over the recipe or nutritional content of such products and information on this site may differ to that given on the product label. We would therefore recommend you do not solely rely on this information and always read the product label. If you have any queries, or you would like advice on Boots products please contact our friendly Customer care team on 0345 609 0055.
This information was last updated 01/02/2017
Store in a cool, dry place.
Best before / Lot: See base
Important info
Country of origin: Germany
Manufacturers address: Nestlé Consumer Services P.O Box 207, York,YO91 1XY, UK.
Maltodextrin, vegetable oils (sunflower, rapeseed), skimmed milk powder, milk proteins, vegetables 7.3% (potato, carrot, tomato, onion, leek), inulin, minerals (calcium citrate, potassium citrate, potassium phosphate, magnesium citrate, ferric pyrophosphate, calcium phosphate, zinc sulphate, sodium selenite), glucose syrup, flavourings (lactose), salt, parsley, stabiliser (E407), sugar, anticaking agents (E450, E339), flavour enhancers (E621, E627, E631), vitamins (C, niacin, pantothenic acid, B6, E, B1, B2, A, folic acid, K, D, B12), paprika, colour (curcumin).
Allergy Advice: Please see ingredients in bold
Nutritional Information
|Typical Values
|Per 100g
|Per portion
|Energy KJ / Kcal
|1733 / 413
|867 / 207
|Fat g
|of which: saturates g
|Carbohydrate g
|of which: sugars g
|Fibre g
|Salt (=Na g x2.5) g


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Adopting the Right Dog for You
How to find the right dog for you and your family
Welcome to Petfinder.com!
Friendliness towards dogs
Friendliness towards other pets
Friendliness towards strangers
Ease of training
Watchdog ability
Protection ability
Cold tolerance
Heat tolerance
The miniature schnauzer deserves his place as one of the most popular terrier pets. He is playful, inquisitive, alert, spunky and companionable. He is a well-mannered house dog that also enjoys being in the middle of activities. He is less domineering than the larger schnauzers. He is also better with other animals than most terriers, although he will gladly give chase. He is clever and can be stubborn, but he is generally biddable. He enjoys children. Some may bark a lot.
This energetic breed can have his exercise requirements met with a moderate walk on leash or a good game in the yard. He needs to share his life with his family inside the home. His wire coat needs combing once or twice weekly, plus scissoring and shaping every couple of months.
Major concerns: urolithiasis, PRA
Minor concerns: follicular dermatitis, esophageal achalasia, vWD
Occasionally seen: pulmonic stenosis, Legg-Perthes, cataract
Suggested tests: eye, DNA test for vWD, (cardiac)
Life span: 12-14 years
American Staffordshire Terrier
Australian Terrier
Bedlington Terrier
Border Terrier
Bull Terrier
Cairn Terrier
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Smooth Fox Terrier
Wire Fox Terrier
Irish Terrier
The smallest and most popular of the schnauzers, the miniature schnauzer was developed in the late 1800s as a small farm dog and ratter in Germany. In fact, the miniature schnauzer is the only terrier not originating from European isle stock. He was derived from crossing the standard schnauzer with the affenpinscher (and possibly poodle). All the schnauzers get their name from one individual dog named Schnauzer, who was exhibited around 1879, an apt name, since schnauzer means "small beard." The miniature schnauzer was exhibited as a breed distinct from the standard schnauzer by 1899 in Germany, although it wasn't until 1933 that the AKC divided the standard and miniature into separate breeds. The miniature is the only schnauzer to remain in the terrier group in America. In England he joins the other schnauzers in the utility group. The miniature schnauzer came to America long after his standard and giant counterparts, but in the years after World War II, he far outpaced them in popularity, eventually rising to become the third-most popular breed in America at one time. He remains as a perennial favorite, a smart-looking and alert-acting family pet and competitive show dog.Copyright © 1998, 2005 by Barron's Educational Series, Inc. based on
Some animal welfare organizations with Miniature Schnauzers ready for adoption:
How to find the right dog for you and your family
Why adopting an older dog has many advantages
Prepare in advance to make sure your home is safe for your new pup


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This past week Rob and I took a trip to Boston. We had a ton of fun and were so excited to take some time to explore one of our favorite cities for a couple of days.
Even though a major part of traveling is to experience new things and make really amazing memories, we are both still college students and don't have all the money in the world. We tried our best to have a great couple of days while saving a few of our pretty pennies.
We opted to take the ferry into New London, Connecticut because Boston is about a 4 1/2 hour car ride from where we live on LI. We thought that the ferry would ease up the trip a little bit. We ended up taking a 7 a.m. ferry and getting into Boston at around 11 o' clock. Naturally, the first thing we wanted to do was eat so we headed straight to the Public Gardens to have some lunch. We had purchased bagels prior to entering the city so that we didn't have to spend a lot of time sitting at a restaurant once we got there.
We had a lil' picnic and both enjoyed an egg everything bagel with vegetable cream cheese (my personal favorite). I love the Public Gardens because there is always so much going on there. Whether it be street performers or farm stands, there is always something different on every corner of this area of Boston. I also love people watching, and the gardens are the perfect place for that.
After enjoying our lunch, spending some time people watching, and exploring the gardens we eventually made our way towards Newbury Street. Like I mentioned before, we both didn't want to spend too much money so we really didn't buy much. Rob ended up getting a t-shirt and I got an adorable pair of shorts from Aerie.
After exploring the city some more and walking for what felt like forever we finally made our way to our friend Tony's apartment! We got a quick snack with him and then headed to dinner where we had an amazing meal. Rob got a lamb burger (ew, lamb) and I got a taco salad. The restaurant that we went to had outdoor seating which is one of my favorite things.
We ended our eventful day at Fenway park. This was a lot of fun because we both had never been to Fenway before and both enjoy going to baseball games. The Sox won by a lot and it was a great game to watch! After stopping into JP Licks for some ice cream we called it a night. Rob got a waffle cone with mint oreo chip and peanut butter cookies and cream and I opted for a standard cookie dough and brownie batter in a cone.
On Thursday we headed towards the Charles River Esplanade after getting breakfast- this place was gorgeous and I totally recommend if you are planning to go to Boston anytime soon. There were a ton of people kayaking in the river/running along the river/ and there were even a few art classes taking place in the same area! Shortly after spending awhile here we made our way back to the ferry port and headed home. We both had a great couple of days. It was really nice to take a break from work and spend some time in a new place.
Have you ever been to Boston? What did you do there?


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Disney Themed Wedding Postage
If you're planning a Disney wedding, make it unique with these character postage stamps ... from Cinderella to Jack Skellington, from romantic fairytale to whimsical gothic, you're sure to find the wedding postage to match your Disney theme.
With any of the Disney or Muppet Character stamps, you can customize them with the bride and groom's name or wedding date. Just select the customize tool and add the text you like.
Can't find the Disney character you want for your postal stamps? Go to Disney's Zazzle store to see all they have to offer!
The Classics: Mickey & Minnie
Mickey and Minnie Mouse sit on a bench, gazing into the distance. Mickey has one arm around Minnie - so cute!
Classic, old-fashioned Mickey and Minnie hold hands while skipping along, looking overjoyed to be together.
Old-fashioned Mickey and Minnie pose with their hands on their hips. They'll really seem to pop right off your wedding envelopes!
Mickey and Minnie Mouse are silhouetted, nearly kissing, in this stylish black and white romantic postage stamp.
A bird's eye view of Mickey and Minnie, the perfect couple, clasping hands and dancing, with Minnie Mouse batting her eyelashes.
Minnie Mouse poses with her arms outstretched, in a blue dress, with pink shoes and bow. Perfect for pairing with the solo Mickey stamp on the right!
Mickey and Minnie at a picnic feast! This is perfect for a rehearsal dinner, or to emphasize the "eat" part of your "eat, drink & be married" wedding!
Classic Mickey and Minnie are holding hands and kissing. Perfect for vintage or old-fashioned weddings!
Or, if you want to emphasize Mickey, you could choose this Disney love postage stamp, featuring an infatuated Mickey Mouse with hearts swirling around his face.
Minnie and Mickey grin as they hold hands and dance, just like you will at your first dance as a married couple.
L'Amour Fou - Crazy Love. "Does she love me? Does she love me not?" thinks Mickey as he picks the petals off a deep red flower in these cute Mickey & Minnie heart postage stamps.
The Beautiful: Disney Princesses (& their Princes!)
Prince Charming lifts Snow White, the classic, original Disney princess, as they gaze deeply into each other's eyes.
Cinderella and Prince Charming on their wedding day! Cinderella wears a white dress, her veil carried by two little birds. This is the most popular Disney princess wedding postage.
Cinderella and Prince Charming dance in elegant, classic ballroom attire. They gaze deeply into each other's eyes on the dancefloor.
Cinderella and Prince Charming in stylized cartoon silhouettes. They could be leaning in for a kiss...
"We're Engaged!" is written in periwinkle blue script above Cinderella and Prince Charming. The prince kisses a blushing Cinderella's hand, the very picture of chivalry.
"Save the Date!" is written in periwinkle blue script above Cinderella and Prince Charming. Cinderella wears a beautiful white ballgown, reminiscent of a wedding dress.
"And they lived happy ever after..." This castle design is the perfect postage for your romantic fairytale wedding!
Sleeping Beauty (Aurora, or Briar Rose) and Prince Phillip dance, as her princess pink gown swirls around them, in this picturesque Disney fairytale postage.
Ariel, the Little Mermaid, is lifted in mermaid form by her prince, Eric. We have no doubt that Ariel would've wanted custom wedding postage!
"Tale as old as time, song as old as rhyme..." Beauty and the Beast postage will make your wedding invitation envelopes stand out!
Four Princesses: Cinderella, Snow White, Briar Rose, and Belle pose on a patterned purple background - this would make fantastic postage for bridal showers!
All the Disney princesses pose in their fancy dresses. This postage would also be perfect for bridal showers, or other bridesmaid events!
The Rest: Other Disney Characters
Jack Skellington and Sally, from The Nightmare Before Christmas, gaze happily into each other's eyes behind a tombstone. Perfect Disney postage for your Gothic wedding!
Jack and Sally hold hands on an unfurling hill, silhouetted against a large moon, in this iconic Nightmare Before Christmas scene. A lovely touch for offbeat and alternative weddings.
Jungle-child Mowgli, brought up by wolves, meets the cute and sophisticated Shanti in this young love Disney postage.
Wedding Postage
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Sherry's Easy Grape Salad
Here's one of the recipes from Saturday's breakfast, courtesy of Sherry Peel.
Ready In: 1 Hour 15 Minutes
Yields: 8 servings
1 pound seedless green grapes
1 pound seedless red grapes
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 (7 ounce) jar marshmallow creme
1 (6 ounce) package slivered almonds
Wash grapes in a colander under running water, and remove all stems. Place in a large bowl.
In a separate bowl, stir together the cream cheese and marshmallow creme until smooth and creamy. Pour the mixture over the grapes. Using a rubber spatula or large serving spoon, fold the mixture into the grapes until well coated. Fold in the almonds.
This salad may be served immediately, or covered and refrigerated for 1 hour to set slightly, and to allow flavors to blend.


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After re-installing and downloading the drivers, I can't install some of his games which worked on the old computer. This computer should run everything fine because it's better than the other one.
For example, when I installed Age of Mythology, it just didn't run. The hour glass appeared, and nothing else. When I installed Age of Empires 3, after the reboot I received the blue screen of death saying 'critical error' and it wouldn't even boot into safe mode (kept giving that error). I did it twice so am now on my third installation. Other games stuff up the screen: it goes white and there's no choice to get around it other than switch it off at the power point.
So, third install. I'm sure I have the right drivers. I downloaded them when I upgraded the drive from the Acer site, including chipset, sound, and the intel video (my first thought was that the video was something else on the site - there's a few options: Nvidia, Intel, SiS).
I suppose my question is what am I doing wrong. My first reaction was the video. I went to the Intel site to use their driver update tool, but after waiting for about 2 hours, it did nothing. Firewall wasn't blocking it, antivirus was turned off. I also wondered if the automatic driver update tools were worth using.
Anybody have any suggestions on how to get his computer playing these games?


text: Having some trouble with a small multi site VPN set up. I have a RV082 sitting at a main location and plan on connecting several WRVS4400Ns to it from remote locations. I have the first one set up and the IPsec tunnel is up but the two networks are not routing between each other. I can ping the remote gateway IP addresses from each site to the other. But can't ping from LAN to LAN over the tunnel. In this config should I be using the RV082 as a router and the WRVS4400N as a gateway, or both as gateways, or both as routers? I need the remote LAN b.b.b.b to talk to the local LAN a.a.a.a. And I need to do this 10 more times and have them all talk to each other. Thanx


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Popolo Ceramico
About Us
Popolo Ceramico is a ceramics business that specialise in personalised ceramics. The business was founded by Christina Taylor-Chisholm in 2010. Christina studied Art in Newcastle upon-Tyne and has always had a passion for ceramics. As a working mother, after a career in Project Management Christina decided to leave her job and set up her own ceramics business. Combining her love of art, ceramic's, interior design, bright colours and her background in business, Popolo Ceramico was created.
We are a mobile business, based within the Biscuit Factory. We attend numerous events throughout the North East of England capturing baby & children's hand prints in paint, clay and plaster. We also offer a range of ceramic parties within our local area. In addition to this, we also offer beautiful, bespoke, hand painted ceramics that can be ordered at one of our parties/events, through one of our retail partners or purchased online.
What we do
Popolo ceramico offer a range of services. Please see below...
We specialise in capturing baby and children's hand & foot prints in paint, clay and plaster within the Newcastle upon-Tyne area. Please click on our 'Bambino' section to view our products.
We design & create quirky, bespoke personalised ceramics especially for children. Please click on our 'children's collection' section for more details and to see our full range.
We have designed a mix of vintage & contemporary home ware products that we think you'll love. Please click on our 'home collection' for more details and to see our full range.
We have added our unique style and personalisation to our pets favourite things. Please click on our 'pet collection' for more details and to see our full range.
We have created a unique collection of wedding gifts and we also have guest gift idea's for couples getting married. Please click on our 'wedding collection' section for more details and to see our full range.
We have a range of gifts which include special birthdays, anniversary's, christenings and much more. Please click on our 'special occasions' section for more details and to see our full range.
We offer a variety of ceramic party packages. We can host the party from one of our recommended venues, a venue of your choice or from your home. We bring all of your chosen ceramics, paints, stencils, paint brushes, etc and do all of the tidying up after the party. Parties last between 1-2 hours, depending on your chosen package. Please click on 'parties' for more information on our packages and prices.
We run numerous events throughout the year at various locations, capturing baby and children's hand & foot prints in paint, clay and plaster. We also attend summer fairs, host ceramic studio events for children and much more. Please see our 'events' section or have a look at 'whats on' for more details.
The Best Quality Ceramics
We are passionate about producing the best quality ceramics and working within an established pottery alongside some of the North East's best potters for many years, we ensure we only use the best quality ceramics, paints, glazes and ensure we fire our products at the correct temperature to ensure outstanding quality products are produced.
The Process
When you place an order with us, your selected product will be hand painted using non-toxic eco-friendly paints, then glazed and fired over a 48 hour period to ensure it remains usable for years to come. In our studio, we have two industrial kilns working round the clock to bring you the best quality hand painted ceramics straight from the North East's historic ceramic heartland. All of our products are hand painted, glazed and fired, therefore no two pieces will be identical and there may be slight imperfections. In our opinion though, this is what makes hand made items so personal and unique.
Delivery Times
All of our products are made to order, therefore we aim to complete your order and send it out within 14 days. During busy times of the year, delivery times may increase to 28 days.
Welcome to our new Popolo Blog
Welcome to our new Popolo
Blog ...
Featured Products
Popolo Events
For Details of Popolo Events Coming Soon - Please Click The Link Below
At our events we capture baby and chilren's Hands and Footprints in paint on a variety of ceramics such as mugs, tiles and plates etc.


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Did you see my new Picnic Party printable invitations I posted yesterday? Today I have some ideas and inspiration for how to host your own picnic themed party.
1. Salad in a Jar - Newlyweds
2. DIY Picnic Engagement Photo Shoot - My Wedding
3. Vintage Picnic Baskets - Junk-fest
4. DIY with Mason Jars - Fusion Weddings
5. Red Picnic Basket - Bake This Cake
6. Strawberries & Icecream dessert jars - Madame Bon Bon
7. Apple Pie in a Can - Cozy Living
8. Picnic Party Printable Invitation - Love That Party
You can hold a picnic themed party at a park or in your own backyard, provide your guest with picnic rugs or ask them to bring their own. A selection of thrifted picnic blankets or patchwork rugs will add a vintage touch to your celebrations. Folding canvas chairs or hay bales are the perfect seating solution for those guests who may be unable to sit on the ground.
String paper bunting through tree branches and hang paper lanterns. Stick to using natural materials like paper, glass, cotton, wool, hessian and wood wherever possible, to maintain a relaxed outdoors vibe.
A picnic party is a relaxed affair, so prepare a buffet table in advance with a selection of sandwiches, drinks, salads and snacks and allow your guests to "pack their own picnic basket". Package salads in small paper noodle boxes or jars as servings for one, wrap sandwiches in waxed paper and provide drinks in small milk bottles or mason jars. Identify all your picnic party food with food labels, so that guests can choose their favourites and add them to their picnic basket.
Alternatively, you could prepare pre-packed picnic baskets filled with tasty finger foods; dips, crackers, cheese and fruit, laid out on rugs, ready for your guests. Desserts can be displayed, low to the ground, on vintage wooden crates or an old chest. Mix and match vintage linens and doilies with cake stands and platters to evoke a nostalgic feel.
A picnic party can be enjoyed by young and old alike, and should the weather not favour a day outdoors, well just push your loungroom furniture to the side and set those picnic rugs up, right there on the floor!
Join me tomorrow for some picnic party games!


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Geology of National Parks, 3D and Photographic Tours
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|Powell's First Expedition (1869) left familiar territory at the mouth of the Uintah River (Duchense River) on July 6th. By the next day they were already entering unexplored canyons of the Green River. The canyon increases in depth as the river flows south through an uplifted plateau (Tavaputs and East Tavaputs). The general barren character of the canyon led Powell to name it the "Canyon of Desolation." Powell found fish fossils and recognized that the organic-rich sedimentary rocks exposed along the river were Tertiary-age lacustrine (lake) deposits. Farther south, the river cuts through older strata known today as the Book Cliffs of Cretaceous age in the region of the Price River. Powell named this section Coal Canyon (now Gray Canyon) after the massive marine shale and sandstone exposures along the Green River valley. On July 13th, the First Expedition recognized "Gunnison Crossing" (now the site of Green River, Utah) and noted that Indians had recently used the crossing. The Expedition continued south into the red-rock country in what is today the Canyonlands National Park region. Powell named a very curvy section of the river, Labyrinth Canyon, and a similar but more flat-water section of the river, Stillwater Canyon. They finally reached the confluence of the Green and Grand (Colorado) Rivers on July 16th, 1869, nearly three weeks ahead of Powell's anticipated schedule.
|On the Second Expedition in 1871, Powell turned the command of the voyage through Desolation Canyon over to his brother-in-law, "Prof" Almon H. Thompson. Being later in the year, water levels were much lower in the canyon. This required more time and work to paddle boats through the still water and shallows in the canyons. Powell rejoined the Second Expedition at "Gunnison Crossing" (Green River, Utah) on August 9th with a limited supply of food. They reached the Confluence of the Green and Colorado Rivers around mid-September where they spent several days exploring before continuing down Cataract Canyon.
Green River. Cabin at "Ft. Robidoux" about opposite the mouth
of the Uintah River. Dodd's cabin, White River Valley. Figures from left
to right are: Dellenbaugh looking through field glasses, Jack Hillers
sitting down and pointing, Thompson on the arm of chair, Beaman standing
in front of door, Clement Powell on his left, J. F. Steward, Andy Hattan,
Captain Bishop near tree. Utah. 1871. Photo by E. O. Beaman. "Pardyn
Dodd's Cabin 1871. Identified by the journals of F. M. Bishop and S. V.
Jones. This has been erroneously termed Fort Robidoux in some of the Powell
journals. It was built on the site of the fort constructed sometime in
the 1830's at the mouth of the White River. Photograph by E. O. Beaman,
July, 1871."
The Uintah River is shown on modern maps as a tributary of the Duchense River. Fort Robidoux was located about 30 miles west of the confluence of the Duchense and Green rivers.
| Canyon of Desolation, Green River. Utah.
USGS Earth Science Photographic Archive digital file: hjk00713
Desolation Canyon is on the south side of the Uinta Basin, an asymmetrically-shaped downwarp. The center of the basin is near Ouray, Utah. At their maximum thickness, the sedimentary strata above Precambrian basement rocks are about 15,000 feet thick just south of the Uinta Range. The south side of the basin is a gentle upwarp that flattens out gradually to a structural high in south central Utah in the Canyonlands National Park region. In that region, Mesozoic strata overlie an older structural downwarp called the Paradox Basin (discussed below). Traveling downstream along the Green River from Ouray, the rocks grow progressively older at stream level (the strata dip gently upstream, to the north). Three rock formations of Tertiary Age (Eocene Epoch) crop out in Desolation Canyon. Near Ouray, the Uinta Formation is exposed in a region of relatively low relief. The progressively higher cliffs of Desolation Canyon consist of Wasatch Formation (nearly 3,000 feet thick), and along the southern end of the canyon, the Green River Formation is exposed (also about 3,000 feet thick). These strata overlie a thin interval of Paleocene age rocks that, in turn, overlies rocks of Cretaceous rocks that crop out in Gray Canyon and the Book Cliffs south of Desolation Canyon near Green River, Utah.
Chimney Rock on the Green River. 1871.
USGS Earth Science Photographic Archive digital files: hjk00517 and hjk0517a
Chimney Rock is an outcrop of Wasatch Formation sandstone located in Desolation Canyon about 58 miles downstream of Ouray. It was named by the crew of the Second Expedition in 1871.
Green River in Canyon of Desolation. Utah.
USGS Earth Science Photographic Archive digital file: hjk00538
Canyon of Desolation, Green River. Utah. (Negative broken).
| Canyon of Desolation, Green River. "Rigput fence" left foreground.
USGS Earth Science Photographic Archive digital file: hjk00716
A "rigput fence" refers to wall-like piles of driftwood that accumulate along the river during flood. They provide a running record of high-water flow.
| Canyon of Desolation, Green River. Boats of the 1871 Expedition. Utah.
(Negative broken).
USGS Earth Science Photographic Archive digital file: hjk00719
Note about anaglyphic images: the red color is associated with the left image, the cyan color is associated with the right. In this case the "left" side of plate was broken, causing the cyan to stand out where part of the plate is missing (both images were typically burned onto a single plate negative in the camera equipped with dual lenses). When red and cyan are combined in the images, the result is a gray-scale palette (white to black). The aged original photographs also had brownish tones that come through in many of the images. Unusual shaped patches of red or cyan color are usually imperfections in the original negative plates, either scratches or where the coating may of rubbed off or were imperfectly prepared before exposure. Considering the time constraints, methods involved, and circumstances required to take and transport the glass plates, cameras, and photographs supplies, the survival of so many scenes is a reflection of the remarkable dedication to the photographic aspects of the expedition.
Low water in Green River, Canyon of Desolation. Utah.
Note the low level of the Green River in these rapids. Powell's brother-in-law, the "Professor" Almon H. Thompson got the job of leading the Second Expedition through the canyon during the heat of August, 1871. Low water meant more rowing, dragging, and portaging the boats downstream through the generally shade-free canyon. Note the steep, blocky talus cones that extend from the cliff face directly to the river in many of the thumbs. For much of the canyon there is little room for plant communities to become established along the canyon bottoms.
| Green River in Canyon of Desolation. Utah.
USGS Earth Science Photographic Archive digital file: hjk00749
The sharp contrast between these units probably reflect the formation boundary between the Wasatch Formation and the overlying, darker, more organic-rich Green River Formation. These strata formed from deposits laid down in the subsiding Uinta Basin during the Laramide Orogeny. The Wasatch Formation represents inter-fingering sedimentary deposits (gravel, sand, and mud) that accumulated in stream channels, on floodplains, or in swamps or lakes, whereas the Green River Formation represents sediments deposited in a great lake basin that extended throughout northwestern Utah and parts of western Colorado and southwestern Wyoming. Through time, "Green River Lake" fluctuated with climatic conditions, ranging from freshwater to hypersaline conditions. At times, extensive algal reefs formed along margins of the basin. In addition, stagnant water at depth allowed organic-rich sediments tp accumulate in the lake bed. Concentrations of organic material in some sections of the Green River Formation are rich enough to burn freely if ignited.
|Dellenbaugh Butte, Green River, near the mouth of San Rafael.
USGS Earth Science Photographic Archive digital file: hjk00585
The confluence of San Rafael Creek and the Green River is about 15 miles south of the town of Green River, Utah and about 20 miles north of Canyonlands National Park. It marks the boundary between Gray Canyon (to the north) and Labyrinth Canyon (to the south which extends into the park.) Traveling downstream from Green River, Utah, the river cuts into increasingly older rock. Dellenbaugh Butte (named after Frederick Dellenbaugh, an artist-crew member from the First Expedition) consists of Jurassic sedimentary formations. Starting at river level, Quaternary and recent alluvium and aeolian deposits form a 20-foot high terrace along the river bank. Sandstone of the Entrada Formation crops out just above this lower alluvial bench. Talus covers the Curtis Formation. The even-bedded section above the talus slope is Summerville Formation. The small cap on the butte consists of sandstone of the Salt Wash Member of the lower Morrison Formation. These formations preserve evidence that coastal floodplains, mudflats, dunes, and beaches existed along the margin of a shallow seaway during Jurassic time.
| Green River at Labyrinth Canyon. Utah. Photo by E. O. Beaman.
USGS Earth Science Photographic Archive digital file: hjk00728
This picture is actually near the mouth of Labyrinth Canyon at Trin Alcove Bend. Trin Alcove Bend is located about 29 miles south of "Gunnison Crossing" (at Green River State Park in Green River, Utah). Canyon cliffs consist of Navajo Sandstone. When this location was photographed again by Hal G. Stevens in 1968, the barren sandbar extending to near the center of the river from along the left side of the stream was mostly missing except immediately along the cliff face where a narrow floodplain and slope is stabilized by dense vegetation.
| Trin Alcove, Labyrinth Canyon, Green River. Utah.
USGS Earth Science Photographic Archive digital files: hjk00722 and hjk0722a
Rocks exposed at the surface along the Green River grow progressively older downstream toward the Confluence of the Green River with the Colorado River (also called the Grand River in during Powell's Expedition). Trinal Alcove is located about 2 miles downstream of the entrance to the section of canyon that Powell named "Labyrinth Canyon." The Second Expedition camped here on September 8, 1871 and spent time exploring the canyons in the vicinity. Cliffs in this section of the river consist of Navajo Sandstone.
| Trin Alcove, Labyrinth Canyon, Green River. Utah.
USGS Earth Science Photographic Archive digital file: hjk00723
Massive beds of Navajo Sandstone display vertical dark streaks called "desert varnish." Desert varnish consists of a surface coating of manganese and iron hydroxide mineral precipitates, probably derived from leaching of soils on the tops of the cliffs. Desert shrub oaks and occasional cottonwoods grow along the shady side canyons of the Green River.
| Trinal Cove Bend, Labyrinth Canyon, Green River. Utah.
USGS Earth Science Photographic Archive digital file: hjk00727
A cliff-top view of Trin Alcove Bend shows the flat upland plateau above the Green River. The upper Navajo Sandstone displays massive crossbeds reflecting the widespread desert dune environment that existed across the much of region that is now Utah in Early Jurassic time.
Bowknot Bend, Labyrinth Canyon. Utah.
E. O. Beaman took this photograph from the west end of the narrow saddle of Bowknot Bend (located about 48 miles downstream of "Gunnison Crossing" at Green River State Park, Utah). Only 1,200 feet separates the river channel, even though the path of the river channel continues 7.5 miles in a circular loop. The saddle is along the crest of a gentle structural upwarp called the Cane Creek Anticline. This region is part of the Paradox Basin, an older structural basin that formed along the western side of the Ancestral Rocky Mountains in Pennsylvanian and Permian time (much earlier than the uplift and subsidence that occurred during and following the Laramide Orogeny that formed the Uinta Basin and modern Rocky Mountains that we see today). Massive deposits of salt and gypsum occur deep in the subsurface here; flowing salt under pressure forms many of the structures in the region (a process that is still occurring). Cliffs along the river consist of Triassic-age Moenkopi Formation capped by Chinle Formation. In the distance sheer cliffs roughly 300 feet high consist of Wingate Sandstone capped by Kayenta Formation.
| The Butte of the Cross. Labyrinth Canyon, Green River. Utah.
USGS Earth Science Photographic Archive digital file: hjk00733
Butte-of-the-Cross is located on the west side of the Green River (near Bonita Bend and Anderson Bottom on the Green River along western edge of Canyonlands National Park). E. O. Beaman took this picture on September 18, 1871 from the top of a bluff of White Rim Sandstone of Late Permian age. The Butte-of-the-Cross, and other distant escarpments and mesas, consist of the complete Triassic stratigraphic section, ascending in order: Moenkopi Formation (cliff), Chinle Formation (slope), Wingate Formation (cliff), Kayenta Formation (cliff), and Navajo Sandstone.
| View near Bonita Bend in Green River. Utah.
USGS Earth Science Photographic Archive digital file: hjk00739
The Second Powell Expedition stopped at Bonita Bend on September 12, 1871 (located 86 miles downstream of "Gunnison Crossing" at Green River State Park, Utah). They recognized that Anderson Bend (nearby) is a cutoff stream meander that formed when the Green River cut through the neck in a bend in the river. The flat water through this section of the river canyon prompted Powell to name it Stillwater Canyon. Stillwater Canyon extends from just above Bonita Bend to the rapids just above the Confluence of the Green and Colorado rivers.
| Green River in Stillwater Canyon. Utah.
USGS Earth Science Photographic Archive digital files: hjk00657 and hjk0657a
Despite concerns about dwindling food supplies, the deep, slow moving water in Stillwater Canyon came as a relief to both Powell expeditions. It served as a reprieve to the hard work paddling and portaging associated with rapids that were in flood during the First Expedition, and the low-water conditions that exposed rocks and sand bars in the stream during the Second. Note the clear-water conditions in this image in contrast to the muddy water in the following thumbs. A summer rainstorm (with flash floods) will turn the river completely muddy in a matter of hours.
| Green River in Stillwater Canyon. Utah.
USGS Earth Science Photographic Archive digital files: hjk00831 and hjk0831a
The white caprock along Stillwater Canyon displays dark streaks of desert varnish that are typical on the White Rim Sandstone (late Permian). The White Rim sandstone stands out in contrast to the reddish beds of the underlying Organ Rock Formation (Permian) and the overlying Moenkopi Formation (Triassic). The softer shales of the Moenkopi Formation weather and erode faster than the underlying White Rim Sandstone. As a result, the White Rim Sandstone forms a caprock ledge along the Green and Colorado River gorges throughout much of the Canyonlands National Park region. They are particularly visible from overlooks throughout the Island-In-The-Sky District.
| Green River from Junction Cliff in Stillwater Canyon. Utah. Wayne and
San Juan Counties, Utah. 1871.
USGS Earth Science Photographic Archive digital file: hjk00774
Within 15 miles of the Confluence, cliffs along the Green River contain thin lenticular beds of limey mudrock bearing crinoids, brachiopods and other marine fossils. These beds are within the Rico Formation of Pennsylvanian age. The Rico Formation overlies the Paradox Formation that is only partially exposed downstream in parts of Cataract Canyon. These rocks represent the oldest formation exposed in the canyon system between Dinosaur National Park and Marble Canyon.
On the top of the country immediately at the junction of the Grand (now
Colorado) and Green Rivers, west side. Utah. September 17, 1871.
The region east of the Confluence of the Green and Colorado rivers is called the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park. It is a region known for slick-rock expanses in the Organ Rock Sandstone and towering spires of the overlying Cedar Mesa Sandstone (both of Permian age; and both are visible in this image). Despite dwindling food supplies, the Second Powell Expedition took time in late September 1871 to explore the rugged upland region around the Confluence of the Colorado and Green rivers.
| Colorado River. Junction of Grand (now Colorado) and Green Rivers, just
west of the junction. Utah. (No water shown in photo). (Negative broken).
USGS Earth Science Photographic Archive digital file: hjk00747
The Organ Rock Sandstone (Permian) forms the core of the upland canyons in the Confluence area, particularly through the Needles District of Canyonlands, east of the river. In real color, the strata consist of reddish brown and white beds of arkosic sandstone ("arkosic" means that the sediments are rich in grains of feldspar minerals). The reddish color comes from hematite and other iron-oxide minerals that cement the sand beds, which are locally cross-bedded.
Labyrinth Canyon, Green River, Tump-in-kon-tu-weap. Utah.
Click here to see recent 3D photography of the Canyonlands National Park area.


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Obama in Cuomo's Glow
President's Election-Year Trip Taps Into Success of Fellow Democrat
ALBANY—When President Barack Obama visited a nanotechnology center here Tuesday, it provided an ideal setting not only for an economic pep talk but also to absorb some of the popularity of his host, Gov. Andrew Cuomo.
Mr. Obama, who party officials say has a collegial if not close relationship with his fellow Democrat Mr. Cuomo, enthusiastically embraced the governor before delivering an election-year speech urging Congress to act on his economic agenda....


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IN his closing statements at the second and third presidential debates, President Bush argued that his proven ability to handle an international crisis is an important reason why Americans should reelect him.
Throughout the 1992 campaign, polls have shown that prospective voters give Mr. Bush a sizable edge over Gov. Bill Clinton when it comes to strong leadership of United States foreign-policy interests and vital national-security issues.
But many reporters commenting on Bush's plea for recognition of his foreign-policy credentials dismissed the president's argument out of hand.
With few exceptions, they confidently reminded viewers and Bush that the cold war is over, that no nation is going to attack the US, and that the president is facing a world scene so dramatically changed that reminders of his foreign-policy leadership are tiresome and irrelevant. To underscore their impatience with the president's insistence on mentioning security issues, pollsters display charts showing a host of domestic issues ranking solidly ahead of anything related to a foreign country.
The day after the Richmond debate, the Wall Street Journal asked four giants of the financial world if a repeat of the the stock-market crash of October 1987 was possible. Peter Lynch, former manager of the Magellan Fund, sketched a possibility for the intermediate future when he replied, "What if the Soviet Union becomes a giant Yugoslavia?"
Said Mr. Lynch: "The Soviet Union is a country loaded with nuclear weapons and is the third-largest oil producer in the world. It's pretty scary. The price of oil would take off. We used to pray for the conversion of Russia; now we pray that it will stay in business. Here's a country that's had years of repression, and their first experience with capitalism is a depression."
The Lynch scenario should be evaluated in light of disturbing current news. Russia is advertising for sale large inventories of military aircraft, submarines, missile systems, as well as technologies to enrich uranium, to potential customers with hard currency.
Meanwhile, ethnic hostilities simmer on Russia's periphery, the pain of economic reform begets popular Russian disillusionment, and elements of the still muscular Russian military sulk about declining prestige. Ultimately, what happens in Russian will greatly affect our security, international economic stability, and the volume of resources available for US domestic programs.
No amount of empathizing with the economic pain of average Americans nor myriad economic plans and theories of deficit reduction will make much of a difference economically if the US fails to thoughtfully manage a new relationship with the republics of the former Soviet Union that promotes democracy.
Bush and his administration could have been much more vigorous and comprehensive in managing the relationship. But Bush has been hammered for the last year and a half by Democrats who taunted him, inaccurately, as being far too interested in world affairs and not interested enough in our domestic economy.
After an April 1992 bipartisan White House meeting and announcement, the administration had to wait six months for Congress to pass the Freedom Support Act, which authorized the critical elements of our modest relationship with the former Soviet Republics.
It's to be hoped that Bush or Mr. Clinton will understand that we are not going to enjoy a strong and uninterrupted recovery of our domestic economy until we have taken hold of these pressing world issues with bold leadership and needed resources. This must be combined with redefinition of our relationship to NATO, with the corresponding obligations of European countries to us in finishing up the GATT treaty, and with the action necessary to bring peace to Yugoslavia.
To bring strong progress to our own economy, we must understand why Europe is in a recession, why Japanese banking and insurance institutions are in crisis, and how scarce worldwide capital may be in the near future.
We must either help strengthen the peace-keeping methods of the United Nations or fashion peace-keeping operations of our own if the world is going to remain safe for trade and travel. And we must have vastly expanded trade if there is to be any realistic hope for sustaining economic growth and increasing the real value of paychecks for all Americans.
This is why Bush should continue to raise unabashedly the question of who is best able to handle the complexities of America's role in the world. That issue did not end with the cold war. In fact, world leadership has taken on much greater relevance and complexity for each of us who is striving to prod the American economy to more rapid growth.


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MUMBAI: The much-awaited Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) regime has inched closer to becoming a reality, with the banking regulator keen on approving changes to attract foreign investments.
The Reserve Bank of India is learnt to have cleared the initial decks favouring changes in the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) and Foreign Direct Investment rules, as sought by the market regulator SEBI.
Ruchir Sinha, Head of Debt and Private Equity at Nishith Desai Associates, a law firm, said: "SEBI had sought these changes from the RBI, and the RBI has shown favour for the same."
REIT is a single company or group that owns and manages real estate properties on behalf of investors, much like shareholding in a company.
SEBI board meet
The matter is up for discussion and could feature in SEBI's board meeting on Tuesday.
Draft guidelines on REITs are also to be finalised at the meeting, according to informed sources. Draft guidelines were floated by SEBI in October, as part of its third attempt to revive REITs.
According to legal experts who spoke to Business Line, the amendments required include adding units of REIT under Schedule V of the FEMA — relating to the transfer and issue of securities by a person residing outside India. The other changes required would be to exclude REIT from the Capital Account Transaction Regulations 4(b), under which all direct and indirect investment in 'real estate business' is presently prohibited. Real Estate Business is defined to mean dealing in real estate excluding construction development.
When contacted, the RBI spokesperson declined to comment on the matter.
"SEBI would be required to amend the Securities Contract (Regulations) Act to notify REITs as a security and the FIIs and qualified foreign investor (QFI) regulations recognising the units of REIT as permissible securities to invest in. Currently, FII and QFI investment is allowed in mutual funds, Government bonds, treasury and shares, but units of a REIT are not recognised," added Ruchir Sinha.
'Significant step'
Sandeep Parekh, former SEBI Executive Director and founder of Finsec Law Advisors, said:
"This would be a significant step for encouraging the flow of foreign investments into REITs in India, which would be good for the real estate sector in the long run. However, in the short run, the main concern for the roll-out of REITs in India is clarity on its tax efficiency, which is still awaited."
The realty industry's request for a 'pass through' status through a change in the Income Tax Act, and one-time waiver of stamp duty and property tax would also come up for discussion at the SEBI meet.
These initiatives are aimed at making REITs a more investor friendly vehicle, sources informed.
"We are coming out with the final guidelines soon, but the problem is getting the tax 'pass through' status," SEBI Chairman U.K. Sinha told Business Line, but declined to divulge details.
Though the regulator has already sought the Income Tax department's approval for the 'pass through' status, the Finance Ministry has ruled out any such amendments before the 2014 general elections.


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Taking a Look at the FNX 9mm Pistol
The traditional DA/SA autopistol is capable of firing the first shot double-action; i.e., a single press of the trigger both cocks and releases the hammer, or one can manually cock the hammer and then press the trigger to fire in single-action mode. Subsequent shots are fired single-action due to the slide's rearward movement cocking the hammer after each shot. Double-action use requires a heavier and longer trigger-pull than single-action. Some favor this design due to safety concerns over carrying "cocked-and-locked", while others avoid it due to the transition between two different trigger-pulls. In any event, the traditional DA/SA semiautomatic pistol has proliferated with no signs of letting up. One of the newer series is from FN and designated FNX. This review will focus on the 9mm version.
As you probably know "FN" stands for "Fabrique Nationale", a long-respected name in firearm manufacturing. Because this company won a US military small arms bid, it was required to have production facilities within the United States, and the FNX-series of pistols are made here as well. (The classic Hi Power continues to be manufactured in Belgium and contrary to rumor, it has never been manufactured by FN in the US.)
The FNX9 appears to be a "morphed" or evolved FNP. (For those interested, here is a detailed report on the latter: http://www.hipowersandhandguns.com/taking_a_look_at_the_fnp9_pistol.htm )
FNX9 Characteristics:
Weight Empty: 24.4 oz. (with empty 17-rnd magazine)
Width: 1.55"
Height: 5.45"
Barrel Length & Twist: 4", 1:10" (Stainless steel whether gray or blackened)
Magazine Capacity: 17
Sights: Fixed, Dovetail, 3-dot type
Accessory Rail: Yes
Internal Firing Pin Safety: Yes
External Safety: Yes. Ambidextrous, frame-mounted and also serve as decocking levers. Does allow for Condition One ("Cocked-and-Locked") Carry
Double-Action Trigger-pull: 12-lb. (Measured just under 12-lbs on one pistol and just over on the other)
Single-Action Trigger-pull: 5-lb. (Measured 4.5-lbs. on two different pistols)
Replaceable Back Straps: Yes. The FNX9 comes with a total of four. Two are flat and two are arched.
The FNX9 slide is of stainless steel (regardless of color) and it sports a now-common polymer frame. These pistols can be had in "Two Tone", in which the stainless slide and barrel are left "in the white" with dark polymer frame or the stainless slide and barrel can be coated for an all black pistol. One of each was used for this article.
The FNX9 is completely ambidextrous other than the take-down lever and its frame-mounted thumb safety allows Condition One (cocked-and-locked) Carry if desired. DA autoloaders permitting this are sometimes referred to as "Selective Double-Action". Other examples are the CZ-75 or Taurus PT-92.
The FNX9 is equipped with both ambidextrous controls and interchangeable back straps. Its fixed sights are larger than on the FNP9 and it has forward slide serrations and the seemingly mandatory accessory rail. This pistol uses a full-length guide rod with a captive recoil spring. Both slides shown on the FNX9 pistols above are of stainless steel. It can be had in either "two-tone" or dark.
Differences Between FNP and FNX 9mm Pistols:
The original FNP has only been out since 2006 before being phased out by its FNX successors. The latter's lineage from it is obvious and it seems only logical to ask how these two pistols differ.
Weight: I believe the FNP's weight (with empty magazine in place) to be 25.2 oz. compared to 24.4 oz. for the FNX, as listed in the manual.
Sights: Both have fixed, 3-dot sights dovetailed into the slide, but the FNX sights are larger. The FNX rear sight is serrated and "V-shaped" at the bottom of the sighting notch. To my eye, nothing is gained with the "V-bottom" notch, but neither does anything seem to be lost. (I am not sure what the FNX sights are made of, but a magnet is not attracted to either.)
The FNX9's Novak-style rear sight has both serrations and a shallow "V-shaped" bottom to it. The front sight is not serrated. It measures 0.135" wide x 0.22" above the top of the slide.
Slide: The FNX slide sports forward serrations where the FNP does not and its contours are slightly different. Viewing the FNX from the muzzle, the top of the slide is more "squared off", but edges are nicely rounded. The slides on both pistols are of stainless steel. The FNP could be had with either a light or dark slide as can the FNX. Both pistols have internal firing pin safeties.
Extractor: Like the FNP, the FNX9 pivoting external extractor is relatively large and can act as a visual and tactile loaded-chamber indicator.
On the left is the FNX extractor as it appears with an empty chamber. On the right, we see it with a chambered cartridge.
Recoil Spring /Guide Rod Assemblies: Early FNP recoil spring guide rods were of aluminum and readily displayed scratches, although I have not heard of this causing any problems. Nonetheless, they were replaced. FNX recoil spring guide rods are steel and exhibit no deep gouges or undue scratching. Like the FNP, the FNX guide rod/spring assembly is captive.
Frames: Both pistols have polymer frames with replaceable back straps. The FNP has two and they are attached via a screw. The FNX has four, two arched and two flat. One of each is checkered while the other has lateral ridges. The FNX uses flexible polymer tab to retain the back strap being used.
Here is the tab that is depressed via a hole in the back strap for changing it. I am not sure if I trust this arrangement for use with a lanyard even though each back strap is drilled for them.
The FNX frame has more texturing than the FNP, though either provides more than adequate purchase in my opinion. I agree with the commonly-heard assessment that the FNX's texturing is more "aggressive."
The FNX9 grip area is shown with the arched back strap having lateral ridges. I found the checkered one that came on the gun just too "aggressive" and uncomfortable during longer shooting sessions. Swapping back straps is no problem, but as has been noted by others, some vertical movement is frequently present in the back straps. The maximum gap between the top of the back strap and frame measures 0.022". Though this never caused any problems, I remedied it by applying 5 layers of 3M Tartan vinyl electrical tape (7-mil) to the flat area of the frame ahead of the flexible tab. These layers total approximately 0.0348" in thickness and resulted in a tight fit without altering the pistol.
Accessory Rails: The dust cover on the FNP has an integral accessory rail with a single notch. On the FNX, it is the customary Picatinny rail having 4 notches.
Slide Rails and Block: On the FNX, the frame's steel slide-rails and block on which the barrel rests are removable and replaceable.
The barrel rests lower in the frame on the steel block of the FNX than in the FNP. I do not believe that this is a significant lowering of the bore axis; but generally speaking, the lower the bore axis, the less muzzle-flip. From the bottom of the tang which is the highest point at which the hand contacts the pistol to the center of the firing pin (center of the bore line) measures approximately 1.2".
Thumb Safety Levers: On the FNX, they are extended, ambidextrous and constructed of polymer. They do permit cocked-and-locked carry. Pushed all the way downward past the "fire" position, they safely drop the hammer, decocking the pistol. My FNP used a steel stamping for this part and served only to decock the pistol. (I think that there was a version which did allow for Condition One Carry.) On the FNP, the stamped levers are removable during the detail-stripping procedure. On the FNX, the polymer levers must be destroyed in order to be removed and then must be replaced by FNH personnel. In other words, field-stripping is as far as individual owners can go. Replacement of internal parts is almost certain to require sending the pistol to FN.
The FNX9 thumb safety levers are extended and ambidextrous. The thumb safety is engaged when pushed upward as shown here. When the thumb safety is engaged, the trigger moves freely and only against trigger-spring tension. It is not in contact with the hammer assembly until the safety is in the "fire" position. The safety doesn't block the sear or trigger. It disengages the action.
The slide can be hand-cycled with the thumb safety engaged. Unlike some selective DA/SA autoloaders, the thumb safety can be applied with the hammer cocked, all the way forward or in the sort of "half-cock" position it falls to when decocked using the thumb safety lever.
On the left, we see the hammer in the position to which it drops when decocked using the thumb safety. On the right is the hammer all the way forward. In both photographs, the safety is in the "off" position. It could just as easily be in the "on" position. On the FNX9, regardless of hammer position, the safety can be applied.
Slide Release Lever: Though shaped slightly different on FNP and FNX, both are of stamped steel construction. On the FNX, they are ambidextrous, but not on the FNP.
Shown above is the polymer FNX9 magazine follower in contact with the hold-open/slide-release lever tab. Note that this steel tab is relatively wide, preventing unnecessary wear of the softer polymer which would result in failures to lock the slide rearward when the pistol is fired until empty.
Take-Down Lever: It operates the same on either pistol and is only on the left side of the frame when viewing the pistol from behind.
Triggers: These appear to be the same on both pistols. They are smooth and just over 3/10" wide. The lower portion that actually contacts the trigger-finger does not attract a magnet and appears to be of polymer. There is an integral "dimple-like" trigger stop but a small amount of overtravel still occurs.
Magazine Release: They are ambidextrous and shaped like a horizontal teardrop on the FNX but single-side and round on the FNP. They are of steel and retain the magazine via a raised spot on the front of the magazine tube. FNP magazines were retained via the usual cutout in the magazine.
The magazine is retained via the raised area shown here on the front of the magazine body. In early FNX pistols, the magazines sometimes had to be pushed forward when seated to be retained. This has been corrected. Six magazines in two different FNX9 pistols seated normally and without fail.
Magazines: In 9mm, the FNP9 magazine is bright stainless holding 15 rounds. The FNX9 magazine is also stainless, but coated to be somewhat darker and holds 17 cartridges.
FNX9 magazines appear well-made and have witness holes along the rear of the magazine body. These double-stack magazines disassemble in normal fashion by sliding the polymer floor-plate forward after depressing a tab on the bottom of it. I initially found getting the last couple of rounds in them a tough proposition, and considerable extra force is required to seat a fully-loaded magazine into the pistol with the slide forward, as when "topping off the pistol" for maximum cartridge-capacity.
Besides ammunition/firearm compatibility, how well a given firearm can be shot depends upon the skill-level of the shooter along with the firearm's practical and mechanical accuracy. A poor shot won't have the ability to shoot precisely and a firearm that is difficult or uncomfortable to use is described as having poor practical accuracy even though its mechanical or built-in accuracy might be first-rate.
Consider a hypothetical handgun. Assume it mechanically capable of repeatedly shooting 1" groups at 50 yards from a rest. In the hands of someone who has never fired a handgun before, I would not expect to see much precision. Now give the same pistol to a skilled shot and results will almost certainly improve; but if we add a twenty-pound trigger-pull to the mix while leaving the mechanical accuracy the same, group-size will probably increase as will the time between shots in rapid-fire exercises.
But what do we mean by "accuracy" with respect to the FNX or handguns in general and how much is enough? The answer is that it means different things to different shooters depending upon intended use. A competitive bullseye shooter wants a handgun capable of repeatedly producing as tight groups as possible and with light loads. A five-shot group at 25 yards measuring 4" or 5" is "all over the paper" in their world. Such handguns may or may not be reliable; I have seen and shot both, but in pure bullseye matches, malfunctions do not usually penalize scores and maximum target accuracy is rated number one. A light, super-smooth trigger-pull along with lighter-than-normal-strength springs, precisely adjustable sights and large target stocks are to be expected.
Service-style handguns such as the FNX, Glock, M&P, 1911's, Hi Powers and Beretta 92's are almost never mechanically capable of producing as tiny cluster of holes as target pistols, but it has been my observation that most are able to provide better groups than their shooters can achieve. (This includes me.) Reliability is rated higher than greatest-possible-accuracy for weapons which may be called upon to save their users! Generally speaking, most "combat accurate" handguns are capable of dropping their shots within about 3 ½" to 4" at 25 yards. Individual pistols and ammunition might do a tad better or worse, but all should be easily able to keep their shots in the vital areas of a human being at that distance. (Many can do it at considerably greater distances.)
After four range sessions with two different FNX9's, I am satisfied that these pistols possess very acceptable service accuracy. Both pistols grouped about the same when shooting from a rest, had nearly identical trigger-pulls, and the sight picture on each produced the same POI for POA. I think that this speaks well for FN's ability to consistently maintain tolerances during the manufacturing process.
This single-action group was fired using the two-tone FNX9 from 15 yards with my wrists braced on sandbags. It was done in slow-fire and is fairly typical for groups shot in this manner in both pistols. Point-of-Aim in this photo was at the bottom of the 2" gray bullseye; i.e., a 6 o' clock hold. FN advises that the gun is sighted-in at 20 yards for a dead-on hold. In other words POA = POI.
These 10-shot groups were also fired with wrists braced on sandbags with the dark FNX9, but with the top-half of the dark bullseye visible above the front sight. Like the two-tone pistol, this one shoots to the sights. At this distance, hits will be to the paper covered by the front sight's white dot. All shots were fired single-action.
This 25-yard group was also fired from a rest in single-action using a two-hand hold with wrists braced on sandbags. The shot to the extreme left was "called" and my fault.
On the left is a target with no clear aiming point, just a 7 ½"-diameter circle. Against a timer, I drew and fired one shot double-action using a "flash sight picture". Shooting was at 10 yards using my strong hand. Average time per shot was 1.3 seconds. The hand-drawn target on the right was shot at the same distance using Winchester Ranger 127-gr +P+ ammunition. The target shows the results of 4 "Failure-to-Stop" drills, starting from a low-ready position. The FTS drills averaged approximately 2.3 seconds each. Drawing and firing two shots (DA followed by SA) averaged a shade less than 1.5 seconds with the dotted circle in the chest area being the target and was repeated 3X. I think that the vertical spread is due to no definite aiming point more than anything else. Horizontal spread is relatively small, which I attribute primarily to its comfortable (for me) trigger-reach.
Both FNX pistols were fired with the following commercial ammunition:
Winchester USA 115-gr FMJ
DAG 124-gr FMJ
Geco 124-gr FMJ
Remington 115-gr JHP +P
Remington 124-gr Golden Saber +P
Speer 124-gr Gold Dot Hollow Point +P
Fiocchi "Extrema" 124-gr XTP Hollow Point
Winchester Ranger 127-gr +P+
Remington 147-gr Golden Saber
Speer 147-gr Gold Dot Hollow Point
Approximately 300 rounds were fired through the two-tone FNX9 and 700 or so from the dark-colored one for a total of 1012 shots between both pistols. There were no failures to fire, extract or eject. Fired cases exhibited no unusual swelling nor were they dented during the ejection process. Primer strikes were relatively well-centered.
The two-tone FNX9 was neither cleaned nor lubed before firing. Checking to make sure that the barrel was clear of any obstructions, it fired all 300 shots as it came from the box. I cleaned the dark FNX9 after about the 400-rnd mark. There were certainly no signs of impending malfunctions, but I was satisfied that the pistol was reliable and am just used to cleaning them after each use.
Observations & Conclusion:
In my opinion, there is much to recommend the FNX9, but it does have some features I really wish were not present.
1. Reliability: Though not an exhaustive test, the FNX9 appears to be extremely reliable. This is a "must" for any service or defensive arm. Hand-cycling JHP ammunition did not result in slowed or erratic feeding into the chamber. Both pistols smoothly fed and chambered all ammunition tried. Though it varied with the load being used, ejected cases usually landed about 8' to my right.
2. Sight Picture: Subjective to be sure, I like the sight picture. I found it satisfactory in slow and rapid-fire, easy to find in a hurry; and I appreciate the sights' no-snag design, but am not sure what the sights are constructed of. IF they are plastic/polymer, I hope that they are durable and that the front does not exhibit undue holster wear. I do not like the 0.007" gap between the bottom of the sights and the top of the slide, but don't really think it hurts anything.
3. Trigger-Pull: Both double and single-action trigger-pulls were better than expected. The double-action exhibited a tiny bit of "stacking" at the end of the pull and there is minor overtravel with the single-action, which is not at all unusual in this genre of handgun. I found the smooth and rounded trigger very comfortable. Reset is positive and only about 2/10".
4. Trigger-Reach: With either flat or arched back straps in place, I find the reach on this pistol very comfortable, allowing the first joint of my trigger-finger to naturally rest against the right side of the trigger. This allows me to easily provide the pressure required for a double-action first shot. From the top of the back strap (above the insert) to the front of the trigger with the hammer dropped measures 2.8".
5. Frame Grip Texture: I like the feel or "traction" provided on the FNX frame. With (purposely) wet hands, I was quite able to get a very solid hold on the pistol. This remained true whether using checkered or ridged back strap inserts.
6. Back Strap Inserts: My admittedly subjective preference on this pistol is for the arched insert having lateral ridges. I found the checkered version (came on the pistol) too sharp for comfort during shooting sessions over 150 rounds even with the 9mm's mild recoil. I do not like the manner in which inserts are secured to the frame. Though the small amount of movement proved to be of no consequence, it just doesn't "sit well" with me. Depressing the polymer tab to change inserts is certainly quick and easy and there's no screw to lose, but I question how secure this method will prove if much force is applied via an attached lanyard. I think that FN could have done better on this feature.
7. Slide-to-Frame Fit: This is better than expected with very little lateral movement and less vertical. Several pistolsmiths have written that this has considerably less to do with intrinsic accuracy potential than how precisely the barrel fits the slide.
8. Barrel-to-Slide Fit: With effort the barrel can be pushed downward, but when tension is released, it firmly moves back into the position it was before. In short, barrel-to-slide fit is excellent and I noted no lateral movement. This undoubtedly contributes to the better-than-expected service accuracy seen in both pistols.
9. Safeties: I did not find the internal firing pin safety to negatively affect the trigger-pull as I've experienced on a few other make handguns. The thumb safety levers were comfortable to me, but I do not use the "high thumb" shooting grip. Their shape, width and contact angle just does not appear to lend them to that type hold. With enough downward pressure, the thumb safety will decock the hammer, something to keep in mind if carrying the FNX cocked-and-locked. Some have written that their hand-position on the grip prevents this from occurring and I believe them. For me, it was not the case. About half the time, when I energetically disengaged the thumb safety as would be the case in a deadly force scenario, I also decocked the pistol. Each shooter needs to decide what is best for him or her. My own belief is that if I want to carry an autoloader in Condition One, I might be better off buying a single-action semiautomatic from the get-go. On the other hand, the FNX9 does offer "double-strike capability" for folks deeming this an important consideration. I distinctly dislike that the thumb safety levers are not removable without being destroyed and that this is by design. The FNX9 cannot be disassembled further than field-stripping without sending the pistol to the factory. I understand that this limits unauthorized alterations as well as reduces potential lawsuits. I strongly prefer being able to swap out springs or replace parts on my handguns at home, as I can on my Hi Powers, 1911s, Makarovs and Glocks. Some people will have little if any problem with this aspect of the design..
I prefer the somewhat attenuated manner in which SIG-SAUER's pistols' decocking levers lower their hammers. The FNX hammer drops at full-speed when decocked via the thumb safety levers. It may be safe, but I find it a little unnerving. I normally fully depress the thumb safety with one thumb and ease the hammer down with the other when possible. This is just personal preference and I have no doubt that FN has engineered the FNX decocking system to be safe.
FNX safety levers move through an approximate 10-degree arc from the "safe" to "fire" positions. Using a trigger-pull gauge, I measured that a force of slightly less than three-pounds is sufficient to accomplish this. I leave it to the individual to decide if this is enough tension for cocked-and-locked carry. I would consider it if using a thoroughly-tested holster but not just stuffed in the waistband.
10. Field-Stripping: This is extremely quick and simple and mimics the SIG-Sauer P-Series.
I really like the "feel" of the FNX9. To me, this pistol is best described as a cross between a Glock 17 and SIG-SAUER P225. The result is an 18-shot DA/SA autoloader that feels like a Browning Hi Power with thin grip panels when using the arched back strap insert. Purely subjective, the FNX9 is one of the most comfortable semiautomatics I've ever owned bar none and regardless of price. Though obviously not designed primarily for concealed carry, it is smaller and lighter than some other service style handguns and can serve for both home protection and carry with but little effort in clothing choice.
The magazines are initially a bit tough to completely load, but this eases with use. I have read of one account in which the interior coating on one shooter's FNX magazines was flaking off, but I did not witness this with any of the six magazines tried.
I recall reading that the FNX-line of handguns should routinely be sent to FNH every 2500 rounds to make sure that all is as it should be. I emailed the company about this and was told that they'd never heard of this, and it is not necessary. Will the FNX establish a track record for long-term durability commensurate with Glock's? That I don't know, but reportedly Beretta's PX4's are developing a reputation for toughness and like the FNX9, have more internal parts than the Austrian pistol. If Beretta's polymer-framed DA/SA autopistol can do it, I would expect the same from a high-quality company with the history of FN for manufacturing quality firearms.
Here is the FNX9 compared to the Glock 17. Many will prefer its grip angle to the Glock's. I am hoping that it will prove as durable for thousands and thousands of rounds. The FNX9 grip and magazine-capacity reminds me of the Glock 17, but the slide is more the length of the very popular Glock 19.
I find more positives than negatives with the FNX9 and will probably keep this one. Though pictured in Condition One, this one probably will not be carried that way. I just have not found this pistol's transition from DA to SA to be difficult.
I will continue to shoot my FNX9 and report what I observe, be it positive or negative. In short, I'll "let the chips fall where they may"…but I have my fingers crossed that this pistol continues to perform well over the long-term. Hopefully, more folks will report their observations as well. If the FNX9 proves durable, I would sure like to see a 5" version!


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Posted 4.18.2006
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