text:
(ARA) - Grilling isn't just for summer celebrations anymore. No matter what your culinary preferences -- from traditional mega-cookouts at the park to health-conscious quick meals -- grilling has something delicious to offer for everyone.
More than 75 percent of Americans say they own at least one grill, with an increasing number of households boasting two, according to Joanne Hayes, a nationally recognized magazine food editor, TV recipe developer and food historian.
Enthusiasm for the traditional warm-weather cookout has carried over into booming popularity for indoor built-in and portable-countertop grilling units, as well as simple in-oven grilling and rotisserie techniques. Grilling has become a popular option even for those who cook one-person meals or have living arrangements that don't lend themselves to outdoor grilling.
In response to this trend, new varieties of seasonings, rubs and marinades have arrived on store shelves, adding convenience, versatility, no-mess food preparation and robust flavors to grilled dishes. Many seasonings can be rubbed on prior to cooking or shaken on over the grill -- adding succulent flavor in mere minutes, or even seconds, of preparation time.
Organic grilling? Hayes points out that consumers are pickier about the meat, fish and poultry they're selecting for the main course, often looking for "free-range," "grass-fed," "wild-caught" and "organic" items for the first time. Overall, organic meat, poultry and seafood sales grew 32 percent last year. More health-conscious consumers are choosing meatless and vegetarian options, too -- and they're not about to be left out of the grilling experience.
The experts at Simply Organic Grilling Seasons offer this recipe to add to any summer barbeque repertoire:
Barbecue Bell Pepper Spread/Dip
3 cups finely diced red and yellow bell peppers (one large pepper of each color)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese
2 packages Grilling Seasons Mesquite Barbecue Marinade Mix
Crackers or chips of your choice
Directions: Place a sheet of foil on grill. Brush with oil and add peppers. Grill for five to 10 minutes, until peppers start to turn golden brown. While peppers are grilling, place cream cheese in a large bowl. When peppers are ready, pour grilled peppers (no need to cool) over cream cheese and add the Mesquite BBQ Marinade Mix. Stir until completely blended. Serve warm or chilled with crackers or chips. (Makes 8 servings)
As prepared, each serving contains 70 calories, 3.5 g of fat, 15 mg of cholesterol, 270 mg of sodium, 4 g of carbohydrates and 2 g of protein. Courtesy of ARAcontent


text:
FNH unleashed a firestorm of controversy when it introduced the 5.7x28mm cartridge and the Five-seveN USG pistol.
The antigun crowd has set out on yet another witch hunt as once again they're angrily calling for the banning of a firearm. Using stock terms like "no sporting purpose," "cop killer ammo," and "deadly military-style automatic weapon," they've climbed back up onto their soapboxes to enact a ban on one particular firearm. I wondered what firearm could be so evil that we had to run right out and send them all to the bottom of the ocean.
The current target is a .22-caliber centerfire pistol manufactured by the well-respected firm Fabrique Nationale d'Armes de Guerre-Herstal. Dubbed the Five-seveN, it chambers a small-caliber high-velocity cartridge called the 5.7x28mm. It's actually this cartridge, rather than the pistol itself, that is at the heart of the controversy. Intrigued by what all the hoopla was about, I decided to take an in-depth look at FN, the proprietary 5.7x28mm cartridge, and the Five-seveN pistol that chambers it.
I figured the best place to start was at Fabrique Nationale, so I boarded a plane to Belgium. For those of you unfamiliar with this Belgian company, FN has long played a major role in the development and evolution of significant military small arms. It is the home of the P35 Hi-Power pistol, FAL rifle, MAG GPMG and Minimi light machinegun. It was here that John Moses Browning made his home. Standing in his office, I could not help but be moved while contemplating the work accomplished there. Looking at this company's past, it's interesting to note that its firearms have always stood against tyrants bent on conquest. Today is no different as American troops fight the good fight wielding M249 SAWs and M240 GPMGs built by FN.
Philippe Claessens, the managing director of FN-Herstal, took time from his busy schedule to meet with me when I arrived. During our conversation he shed some light on the recent past and where FN is headed today. With the end of the Cold War FN's management resized and reshaped the company to make it more efficient. Today FN employs 1000 employees in Belgium. At the same time the company has invested 80 million Euros modernizing and rebuilding the facility in Herstal to streamline production. Understanding the importance of research and development (R&D) FN also began allotting five to six percent of its budget (it takes in approximately 450 million Euros a year) to R&D.
The 5.7x28mm Cartridge
One project stemming from FN's R&D work is the Five-seveN pistol and its 5.7x28mm cartridge. Beginning in the late 1980s FN concluded that with the proliferation of body armor NATO's 9x19mm firearms were rapidly becoming obsolete. In 1990 NATO recognized this threat and officially began looking into replacing 9x19mm arms with a new Personal Defense Weapon (PDW) system that would be capable of penetrating body armor and would be issued to personnel who did not need a regular rifle.
But what could replace the 9x19mm NATO? When it comes to penetrating armor there are several methods that work. The simplest is to merely drive a very small diameter projectile at high velocity. And this is what FN did. The result is a small bottleneck cartridge with a 28mm-long case topped with a .224-inch diameter projectile. The standard military/LE SS190 ball loading features a 31-grain FMJBT. The cartridge's overall length is 40.5mm, and it weighs half what a 9x19mm cartridge does.
To cut through body armor the .224-inch-diameter SS190 projectile incorporates a cone-shaped steel penetrator sitting atop an aluminum core surrounded by a steel jacket. Velocity of the 5.7x28mm SS190 ball load from a P90 PDW's 10.2-inch barrel is a respectable 2346 fps. Out of a Five-seveN pistol with 4.8-inch barrel it clocks 2133 fps. Despite the high muzzle velocity recoil is approximately 30 percent less than the 9x19mm. This 5.7x28mm load was specifically designed to defeat a NATO CRISAT target (consisting of a 1.6mm titanium plate with 20 Kevlar folds), and it will–even at 200 meters.
In addition to the SS190 ball loading (color coded with a black tip), FN also developed a number of specialty loads. These include the L191 Tracer, Sb193 Subsonic, and SS192 Training Round. For commercial sales FN developed the SS195 LF JHP and SS196 V-Max. The SS195 LF features a jacketed hollowpoint that lacks the steel core of the SS190. It drives a 28-grain JHP at a claimed velocity of 2312 fps from a P90 and 2100 fps from a Five-seveN. Not designed to expand, and without the body armor penetration of the SS190, this lead-free round is instead designed with a rapid yaw cycle.
The SS196 is topped with a 40-grain Hornady V-Max and has a muzzle velocity of 1800 fps from the P90 and 1600 fps from the Five-seveN. This load is designed to expand/fragment and also lacks the body armor penetration of the SS190 load. The SS190, L191, and Sb193 were developed for military and law enforcement use, so they have always been restricted and have never been available for sale to civilians. However, neither the SS195 LF nor the SS196 load was designed to penetrate body armor, and neither is classified as armor piercing by BATFE. Therefore, both loads are available, without restriction, to lawfully armed citizens.
The Five-seveN pistol FN developed two systems to utilize the new 5.7x28mm cartridge: the P90 PDW and the Five-seveN service pistol. Both are modern designs manufactured from space-age corrosion-resistant materials. The P90 is a unique-looking compact submachinegun that feeds from a horizontally mounted 50-round magazine. The companion of the P90 is the Five-seveN. It is a full-size service pistol that operates via delayed blowback. I had a chance to shoot both the P90 and Five-seveN pistol on the company's outdoor range, but I was looking to spend more time with the Five-seveN than was possible in a mere demonstration. So after returning to the U.S., I requested a Five-seveN pistol for review. It arrived a short time later, and I immediately got to work.
The model I received was FN's Five-seveN USG. It came in a black plastic hard case with a cleaning kit, tools, lock, and two spare 20-round magazines. A full-size service pistol with a look all its own, the USG is built on a lightweight polymer frame. Quite out of the ordinary, though, is that the slide, which houses a 4.8-inch hard-chromed barrel, also has a polymer shell. Due to the amount of polymer utilized in its construction the USG, despite its size, is relatively light, just 1.3 pounds unloaded. My sample gun weighed 1.6 pounds loaded. Overall length is 8.2 inches, and it's approximately 5.75 inches high.
Upon first examining the USG one notes the controls are placed a bit differently than the norm. The USG's magazine release (which can be reversed for left-handed use) is a conventionally located push button release. No change here. But the slide release is located just forward of where the safety is mounted on a 1911. This allows it to be easily depressed without having to stretch for it. Ambidextrous safety levers are mounted on both sides of the frame just above the trigger.
While this is an unusual place for a safety on a handgun, modern pistol handling doctrine calls for placing your trigger finger alongside the frame when not actually firing. This puts it right over the USG's safety lever allowing it to be easily manipulated. To facilitate use with gloves the trigger guard is slightly oversized at the front. A takedown lever is located on the left-hand side of the pistol's frame, allowing it to be easily stripped without tools. To show the state of the firearm, a loaded chamber indicator is mounted to the left rear of the ejection port.
The frame of the pistol is nicely contoured and textured to provide a comfortable yet secure grip. To make the design more flexible and user friendly, the dustcover features a MIL-STD 1913 rail, which allows lights and lasers to be easily mounted. Feed is from synthetic magazines that hold a whopping 20 rounds. A magazine disconnect is incorporated into the design, but the good news is that it does not degrade the quality of the trigger. Somewhat surprisingly, the trigger on the USG is quite good, being both light and crisp with a very short reset.
Sights consist of a large, easy-to-see blade front sight mated to a fully adjustable rear. They feature white dots to make them easier to pick up.
Shooting The New System I spent some time getting to know FN's USG at the range. With a 20-round magazine I expected the USG's frame to be fat and bulky. Pawing it over I was pleasantly surprised to find it quite comfortable. Magazines inserted easily, the slide retracted smoothly, and the small bottleneck rounds fed readily into the chamber. The safety took a bit to get used to, simply because I was unaccustomed to its location, but I have no negative comments about it. The ammunition I had on hand for testing was a large quantity of FN's 28-grain JHP load. I set to work making empty brass.
I began testing by checking the Five-seveN's accuracy from the bench at 25 yards. I fired four five-shot groups off of sandbags, and the average group size came in at two inches. Velocity of 10 rounds averaged 1951 fps, which is a good bit lower than FN's claim. Impressed by its 25-yard accuracy, I placed a target at 50 yards and repeated my testing. At this distance the Five-seveN averaged four-inch groups and is probably capable of doing better. Recoil is very mild. The muzzle simply flips slightly and then settles back into place. It's a very pleasant pistol to shoot.
From the bench I moved to running drills from a holster. For gear I selected a holster and magazine carriers from Blade-Tech, Dept. ST, 2506 104th St. Court S., Suite A, Lakewood, WA 98499; 253-581-4347; www.blade-tech.com. I've always had good luck with Blade-Tech gear, and it did not let me down this time. Starting at the two-yard line and working my way back to the 15-yard line, I ran various drills, including shooting strong-handed, weak-handed, and with both hands–stationary and on the move with plenty of forced reloads and failure drills.
Shooting the Five-seveN is a whole lot of fun! Thanks to the excellent trigger, light recoil, mild muzzle flip, and bottomless magazine you can blister targets at a rapid rate. Lock into it and the slide simply pistons back and forth as empties fly out. When the magazine finally runs dry, punch the release and it's kicked clear. Slap another one home, hit the slide release, and keep going. Practical accuracy is excellent, and man-sized targets are easy to hit, even at 100 yards.
Okay, the USG shoots, but what about the cartridge? I checked its penetration/expansion in water. Firing at a distance of 12 feet, penetration of five rounds averaged between nine and 11 inches. None of the rounds expanded or deformed in any manner, and other than the rifling marks, all looked like new when recovered. However, I did notice one interesting thing. It's obvious that the rounds yaw quickly as two rounds penetrated approximately six inches and then turned 90 degrees and exited the side of the water container. Penetration of this load, in my opinion, is a bit on the shallow side for law enforcement. As a comparison, when fired into 10-percent ordnance gelatin this load penetrates only to about 8.5 inches.
Then I fired three rounds into a block of solid oak; I also fired three rounds of commercial Winchester 7.62x25mm 85-grain FMJ from a Chinese Type 54 pistol. I then carefully split the block open and measured the depth of penetration. The 5.7x28mm averaged 3.00 inches while the 7.62x25mm (at 1435 fps) averaged 5.00 inches. Repeating this on an iron plate, the 5.7x28mm simply left silver smears, but the 7.62x25mm slightly dimpled the plate.
What do I think of FN's Five-seveN USG? I like it! It's accurate, reliable, and easy to shoot well. Plus, it's an awful lot of fun to shoot, especially with that deep 20-round magazine capacity. My wife Emily put her Nikon up for a bit and took a turn behind it. She liked it, too. For me, a firearm simply being fun to shoot, whether it's an M1886 Lebel or FN's USG, is reason enough to own it.
Regarding terminal performance for personal protection, many vocal detractors in the U.S. doubt that this small cartridge and its ultralightweight 28- or 40-grain bullets provide adequate terminal performance. Highly respected experts, such as Dr. Gary K. Roberts, have stated current 5.7x28mm loads do not offer sufficient penetration or inflict a large enough permanent wound cavity based upon testing in ordnance gelatin. A 28-grain nonexpanding .224-inch-diameter bullet at 1950 fps is certainly no magnum. Despite this, FN stands firmly behind the 5.7x28mm and states it has worked well when employed by military/law enforcement personnel in actual shootings.
What about the antigun crowd's claims of it being useful only for cop killers? "Nuts," says I. The SS190 load has always been restricted and is shipped from a U.S. Customs controlled warehouse only to military and law enforcement agencies. None has ever been available commercially. The only ammunition available for commercial sale are the sporting-grade 28-grain JHP and the 40-grain V-Max loadings. Neither of these loads is classified as armor piercing by BATFE. In reality a run-of-the-mill .44 Magnum revolver with hunting loads will penetrate deeper in body armor than either of these 5.7x28mm loads. And no FN USG has ever been used in the commission of a crime.
Some European and domestic companies refuse to offer civilian versions of military firearms, high-capacity magazines, or folding stocks, but FN is not among them. If you're interested in a Five-seveN USG pistol, they are available for $1074. Ammunition is growing in availability, and FN plans on introducing an SS197 load (40-grain V-Max at 2000 fps from the USG) in the near future. Hornady even has loading dies and appropriate projectiles sitting on the shelf if you'd prefer to handload. Plus, there will be a companion in the form of a semiautomatic version of the P90 PDW available by the time you read this.
The antigun crowd not wanting me to own one is enough reason to add a USG to my collection.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Certain songs remind me of summer time, and sometimes on very rare occasions there are entire albums that do the same… yanno the type of music that just makes you feel good, the type of music you'd listen to when going a road trip whether it's across America or a few European countries…
for me Vampire Weekend Vampire Weekend is one of those albums. Yes I know, I've mentioned this before, but I liked the album so much I played it out then had to retire it for a few months, and I'm just now listening to it again… here's two of my favorite songs:
Spring 2010
>>>>>>>>>>>> You sexy rugged bastards.
D&G was a direct ode to westerners. Deeply cut and torn jeans, cowboy boots, scarves, studs, aviators, (western shirts), and a color palette of dirt brown and jean blue. As usual, I really enjoyed it. It seems like they're trying to move the "country look" out west… So no more farmer gear, you need to saddle up. There were moments of the collection that became too much… like the heavily studded jacket and a few of the combinations were a bit uncomplimentary. But overall, I rocks wit D&G… I deeply appreciate any designers that 's bringing back the masculinity into male fashions.
And I can't do D&G without touching on Dolce and Gabanna. Their collection? Sexy, sexy, sexy all in black and white (with a bit of blue). Fancy-smancy, arrogant, and elegant; a stark contrast to the cool-headed ruggedness of D&G, except for the insertions of severely ripped jeans. The highlights of the collection would undoubtedly be the well-tailored suits- the cut, the fit, the decor-ed simplicity… rocks my world.
Spring 2010
>>>>>>>>>>> Savannah boy meets the Cali sun.
I am an avid fan of Etro. No one quite does patterns and colors like them. And as far as Spring 2010 goes… they absolutely did not disappoint. Think 70s beach bum with alot of money and great taste- and he, the lavish beach bum that is, wears ensembles that only he can get away with. The phrase "often imitated, but never duplicated" comes to mind, lol. The collection is engulfed with varying shades of ocean blues, while other bright "psychedelic" hues are used as accents. I see a sort of story when viewing Etro's Spring collection, "In 1978, A man from the South, perhaps Savannah, Georgia decides he wants to move to California. He wants to adapt to their style, but keep his own style at the same time, so he decides to mix a little of his southern dandiness with california fun. He finds himself mingling with local residents, and people instantly like him, his southern charm has made the transition from east coast to west coast rather easy. The southerner in Cali soon becomes consumed with life being synonymous with bon-fires at the beach. And his new style depicts his latest philosophy, "look good, be easy, have fun". The end, lol.
(I love that they used the Andre Benjamin look-a-like/ Benjamin Bixby model…
he's really cute ( I know you guys don't want to hear that, lol)
designers, puh-leez, lets put him in more shows).
Let me just point out once again that I LOVE the models they used… seriously, they're all sort of like that really attractive guy you know, who's incredibly handsome, well-mannered, and just has that intrinsic style (and swag- sorry for using the "banned" word, lol). And most of all he has that type of aura that make all the girls want to date him and all the guys want to be his best friends… I know that's a really vivid long-winded description, but hey I had to say something about it.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> "On my honor, I will do my best…"
Boy Scout Boy Scout do your duty… lol. That childhood song came to mind when I first flipped through Dsqaured's Spring Collection. And guys, let me just go on record as saying, "Dsquared never disappoints." It's like they have people from every background (street wear, high fashion, etc) thinking up what to do for the next season. Which allows them to always cohesively incorporate several of the current and upcoming trends into their collection, making the ownership of one of their pieces an absolute must.
I mean, omg (sorry had a girl moment), they hit it right on the head… this is EXACTLY next spring… the patches, the water gear, the camping, the buttons, the colors- still bright but a bit more subdued. And they still managed to embed that nerd, Steve Urkle element – with the glasses, pocket protectors, and unintentional messiness, but now the nerd is just swagged out. Definitely one of my favorite collections so far, the only way it could have been better is if they picked better models (the guys were good, but they kind of looked the same- next time borrow Etro's models).
(sidenote: i also like this collection because I had an impromptu girl scout inspired photoshoot back in February with the same overall theme, so I find this "male version" oh-so-cool)
Okay boys, that's all for now, I'll have more reviews later.
Photos courtesy of WWD (click links above to view more of the collections)
It's a couple of posts down the page now, but don't forget to sign up to win the free Remington Groomer. Click here to win and check out details.
Feels like forever since we've done a swank or dank… let's try to make this a weekly thing. Okay, so this weeks item….
So what do you think?
SWANK or DANK
(for the urban gent newbies, "swank" is good and "dank" is bad)


text:
hotel info
Nearest Airport: CEQ
April 14, 2017 for 3 nights for 2 adults.
An incredibly unique property, La Bonne Étape is an 18th-century post house in Provence, ready to make your next trip to France one...
April 14, 2017 for 3 nights for 2 adults.
An incredibly unique property, lending to a fantastic experience, La Bonne Étape is an 18th-century post house in Provence, ready to make your next trip to France one you will always remember. Family-owned and operated for generations, this 18-room boutique getaway is a true taste of the French countryside—from the modest balconies overlooking the grounds' delightful orchards, to the sparkling stone-surrounded swimming pool open for seasonal sunning. Each guest room is individually designed, with no two alike, and thoughtful care is clearly evident in the beautiful antique furnishings and authentic European déor. Considerate guest amenities such as satellite television and wireless internet access are designed to provide the utmost in comfort, while en-suite baths and air conditioning are further modern additions to this historic property. Views from the rooms and suites gaze over Provençal gardens and the majestic rolling landscape of Chemin du Lac to remind you of the remarkable character of this beautiful destination.
One of the reigning supremes at La Bonne Étape is its distinctive and delectable culinary offerings. With a star Chef de Cuisine, meticulous artistry is put into the hotel's restaurant menus, which serve everything from homemade lavender ice cream to contemporary takes on traditional family recipes of regional classics. The organic kitchen garden provides a bounty of delightfully fresh produce and herbs, making each meal a sensory experience unique to your immediate surroundings. Venture off-site to discover even more of Provence, with bountiful cultural and recreation options. Visit the Citadelle de Sisteron just 15 minutes away, with its historic village and ancient architecture, or journey to the Gorgoe du Verdon, where the massive Verdon canyon and its winding river provide endless opportunities for hiking and scenic views. Other activities nearby include golf, with a scenic 18-hole course just 25 minutes from the hotel, biking around the area's many orchard and country roads, and horseback riding to explore the region on picturesque trails and routes. Enjoy your days, and enjoy your return to a hotel as genuine as can be. Experience Provence from the inside out, with your stay at La Bonne Étape.
Luxury Link is a trademark of Luxury Link, LLC. ©Copyright 1997 - 2017


text:
- Font:
- +
- -
Car buyers always consider price. But these days fuel economy is also high up on the list. High gas prices are driving sales of more fuel-efficient models.
According to the auto research site Edmunds.com, compacts and subcompacts accounted for nearly a quarter of the new vehicles sold in April. That's double the market share from 10 years ago.
ConsumerMan is on Facebook
Stay up to date with the latest consumer news
ConsumerMan is on Facebook
"Smaller cars are better equipped than they were a few years ago," notes Edmunds.com senior analyst Jessica Caldwell. "They have more amenities, so people don't feel like they're giving up much when they go to a smaller car."
Caldwell says we may see fewer small car sales reported for May and June because of the limited supply of some small cars coming from Japan. That drop in production has resulted in higher prices and fewer incentives. For example, a new Honda Civic has gone up more than $1,600 since March. But Caldwell strongly believes the demand for fuel-efficient vehicles will continue as long as gas prices are high.
Story: US auto sales cooled in MayEven though prices at the pump are dropping a little right now, AAA says the nationwide average for a gallon of gas is still $3.78. That's a dollar more than last year at this time. And we all know they could go up again at any time. The U.S. Energy Information Administrationsays there's a good chance the nationwide average price for regular gasoline could exceed $4.00 per gallon in July.
Automakers have seen the shift in demand and are responding. The New York Times reported this week that Ford recently converted a former SUV plant to build small hybrids and electric vehicles. General Motors will soon build its first subcompact model in the U.S.
Dealing with high gas prices
Americans have already made various lifestyle changes because of higher gas prices. Some are going out to eat less often. Others have scaled back on vacation plans. The pain at the pump has also changed driving habits. A new report by AAAshows 15 percent of the adults surveyed use public transportation more often, 21 percent have carpooled and 27 percent have walked or ridden a bike instead of driving.
Nearly two thirds (62 percent) of the people responding to a recent Consumer Reports surveysay they expect to choose a model with "much or somewhat better fuel economy" than the car they already drive.
"The survey respondents said they were getting, on average, 23 miles per gallon now and they expect to get at least 29 miles per gallon from their next vehicle," says Jeff Bartlett, deputy online auto editor at Consumer Reports. "People are willing to compromise on comfort, size and even performance to get the fuel economy they want in their next vehicle. What they won't compromise on is safety and we're glad to see that."
Video: The trend toward cars with fuel economy
A significant number of people who plan to buy a new car or truck (58 percent) told Consumer Reports they are willing to pay more for their next vehicle to reduce their fuel bills. Bartlett calls that "somewhat surprising" in light of the current economy.
"Clearly, these people are looking at the long-term costs of owning and operating their car," he says.
Two thirds of the vehicle owners (65 percent) surveyed said they drive less than 40 miles a day. That makes them candidates for a plug-in hybrid or electric car. But most of those responding (75 percent) said if they bought a new vehicle they would be looking for a conventional gasoline engine.
Did you know?
* On average, consumers said the vehicle they drive most often is a 2003 model.
* Overall, 17 percent of drivers plan to purchase a car over the next year.
* Overall, 67 percent of consumers plan to use the Internet to help with their next car purchase.
* Half of consumers currently log the same number of miles per day as they did one year ago, while one third drive less and 15% said they drive more.
Source: Consumer Reports
Top-rated cars that are also fuel savers
When Consumer Reports tests a new vehicle, it also measures fuel economy. The number of recommended models that also deliver great gas mileage continues to grow. Here are a few of the top-rated models in various categories.
Toyota Prius: The editors call this iconic hybrid "the clear gas-saving leader," delivering a combined 44 mpg in its tests.
Hyundai Elantra: This compact gets an impressive 29 miles per gallon. And with a sticker price at around $18,000, the magazine calls it a bargain compared to most vehicles.
Nissan Altima: This sedan gets 26 miles per gallon and is roomy enough to fit five comfortably. The hybrid version gets 32 mpg.
Toyota Highlander Hybrid: This SUV stands out from the crowd, getting 27 miles per gallon. But its sticker price is almost $50,000.
Ford Escape Hybrid: It delivers 26 miles per gallon, but it's only $22,000.
Subaru Outback: It's more of station wagon than an SUV, but it gets 24 miles per gallon, has all-wheel drive and a really roomy back seat.
Making it easier to find a fuel-efficient vehicle
All 2013 model cars and trucks will be required to have new fuel-economy window stickers. They've been designed to make it easier for buyers to find the most gas-stingy models and to compare vehicles with different power trains.
The sticker, unveiled last week by the U.S. Department of Transportation and Environmental Protection Agency, has a number of new features. Each vehicle will have a "fuel economy and greenhouse gas rating" from 1 to 10. Ten is the best. The label will also show how much you will save or spend extra on fuel compared to the average new vehicle for the first five years.
"This is a giant step forward in giving people information about fuel economy," says Jack Gillis, author of The Car Book. "They'll be able to look at a vehicle very quickly and determine if it's an 8, 9 or a 10 that it's going to be a great choice."
These new stickers will also be required on cars and trucks with non-gasoline engines. They'll be formatted to compare vehicles using different fuels.
You'll also find a QR code on the sticker. Scan it with a smartphone and it will take you to an online database where you can plug in your personal driving habits to get a more accurate fuel-use estimate.
Want to keep up with the latest on consumer news, follow the ConsumerMan on Facebook .


text:
Instagram Captions
Instagram Games: Challenges to Test Your Friends
How to Use Instagress [With Video Explainer]
Surprisingly Weird Instagram Accounts
Captions for Selfies From Songs
How to Take the Perfect Flat Lay Picture
Professional Instagress Review
8 Famous Celebrity Instagram Pets
Social media rankings–why is Selena Gomez No. 1?
Cool Instagram Bios with Emojis To Try
Instagram Update: Money and Metrics
Old Facebook Design 2004 through 2008!
Social media rankings–why is Selena Gomez No. 1?
Upload Facebook Video: Tips and Tricks for Engagement
Facebook Facts 2015: Parents on Social Media
Is Facebook in Decline?
Will "Facebook at Work" mode Ever Take Off?
Feminism and Social Media: Helping or Hurting the Movement?
Hiding your photos on Facebook doesn't make them go away
2014's Best Social Media Updates
Attention marketers: make the most out of social media posts
Cool Snapchat Names: Take The Unique Name Quiz!
Funny Snapchat Ideas Your Friends Will Love
Snapchat Marketing Statistics [Infographic]
New York Fashion Week Used These 5 Social Media Apps
Who to Follow on Snapchat
Top 10 Fashion Influencers You Must Follow on Snapchat
Snapchat Ideas: Get Creative with Face Swap
How to Use Snapchat's New Features
Snapchat Update, the Good, Bad, and Wow
Snapchat Facts For Yourself-ie
Social media rankings–why is Selena Gomez No. 1?
Witty Tweets that Will Never Get Old!
Favorite Celebrities to Follow on Twitter
Feminism and Social Media: Helping or Hurting the Movement?
Surprising Ways Celebrities Use Social Media
Funny Twitter Accounts to Follow
Your New Year's Resolution for Social Media
2014's Best Social Media Updates
Attention marketers: make the most out of social media posts
5 social media trends that will change in 2015
Trash the Dress: 20 of the Most Outrageous Photos
Funniest YouTube videos of 2016
Social Networking Sites in India: The Most Popular
Best and Worst Social Media Challenges
What Season Am I: Quiz
Emoji Jewelry: Will the trend last?
Social Media Culture
Social Media Contests: A Timeline of Viral Challenges
Best Pinterest Accounts to Follow
Interesting Subreddits You Can Spend Hours On!
Turner Media Group social media jobs – Paid Social Media Manager – Atlanta, GA
Captions for Group Photos: Get Your Squad Together!
Amazon social media jobs – Social Media Manager – Seattle, WA
GE Oil & Gas social media jobs – Social Media Platforms Specialist – Boston, MA
Trash the Dress: 20 of the Most Outrageous Photos
Blue Apron Social Media Jobs – Senior Manager Social Media – New York, NY
Thanksgiving Captions for Instagram
Posted on
November 14, 2016
Chloe Parker


text:
The Wall That Knows If You're a Criminal 119
Barence writes "A German company called Dermalog is showing off a wall-sized transparent display that can tell a person's age, mood and criminal intent simply by scanning their face. The system displays data about the user next to their face, and is a demonstration of a fraud-prevention system that matches criminal intent to certain characteristics. PC Pro's tester wasn't overly impressed. 'If the face was a good enough indicator of mood then it should have tagged me as "freaked out on business technological ennui," not simply "happy", and no police force would accept a description of someone as "aged between 45 and 75 — that's the gap between Daniel Craig and Jack Nicholson.'"


text:
Chapman-era - Site and discussion list dedicated to the early days.
www.dimebank.com/chapman-era/index.html -
Christopher Neil Lotus - Genuine Parts Supplied and Delivered for Lotus, Noble, TVR and Subaru Contact Don or Paul Mac on 01606 41481
www.christopherneilpartshop.co.uk/ -
elise-spares.com - Specialise in New and Used parts for Lotus Elise, Exige and 211. Worldwide Mail order
www.elise-spares.com -
Lotus BBS Archive - Over ten years of questions answered for Lotus owners. If you have a problem with your Elise you can bet somebody else has had the same problem and there is a solution here.
www.lotusbbs.com -
Lotus Links - A comprehensive set of Lotus related links to websites.
www.teamlotusf1.com/lotlink.htm -
Lotus Owners North East - A social community catering for the North Eastern Lotus Owners. Free membership, monthly meets, regular runs and multi-club events are undertaken.
lotus.fnp-clan.net -
Lotus Silverstone - New and Used car sales All makes servicing by Lotus factory trained technicians Used car checks carried out on site by request Pre track day inspection carried out Collection, return and storage available
www.lotussilverstone.co.uk -
Midlands Lotus Owners Club - Discussion forum for Lotus car owners in the Midlands, UK.
www.midlandslotus.co.uk -
My Car Quest - A blog about classic cars, race cars and the people who made or drove these special cars.
mycarquest.blogspot.com/ -
Official Lotus Cars Ltd online store - This is the official Lotus Cars Ltd online webstore with official merchandise from the factory in Hethel (Norfolk, United Kingdom)
www.lotuscarswebstore.com -
Scott Walkers - A Lotus Specialist in Dorking Surrey, offers first rate examples, handpicked and highly prepared. ALL TYPES, ALWAYS BOUGHT & SOLD. Visit his website for details.
www.scottwalkers.com -
South Run - Meet, Eat and Drive experience for Lotus Car owners. Includes extras, news, reviews and images from Southruns and other sources.
www.southrun.co.uk -
The Lotus Forums - Huge site for all the latest news and info for Lotus owners and enthusiasts. Busy forums cater for thousands of members, great social and technical info for all!
www.thelotusforums.com/ -
The Lotus Forums Shop - Official Lotus merchandise at discount prices and more.


text:
We have known about Ludacris' planned eighth studio album, Ludaversal, since sometime last year. But it was only this past January that we got some more concrete details on the project, like the fact he's going to get more personal on it and that Usher will guest. And now we're learning that the record will arrive on Sept. 11 and not in May as previously rumored. Also, a lead single should be hitting the web shortly featuring production from Chicago duo Da Internz, who have been working closely with Nas recently. [RR]
Best Coast - Watch: Best Coast Debuts New Song "Why I Cry" Live | MF Doom MF DOOM Reissuing 'Operation: Doomsday' (Again) |


text:
Term: Hypnopompic
Hypnopompic: A dreamy state that occurs on arousing from sleep but before being completely awake. May be accompanied by visual, auditory, or kinesthetic hallucinations. Its opposite is the hypnagogic state, which can have the same hallucinations, but which occurs between wakefulness and sleep. Donald Michael KraigHypnopompic: A state between sleep and being awake. It is also called the "Borderland Consciousness." It is during this state of consciousness when we are most receptive to images, symbols, impressions, sounds, ideas and feelings. It is also a state very receptive to Intuition. It's counterpart, between being awake & falling asleep, is called the hypnagogic state. Also See: hypnopompic state
Sorry! No Articles matched your search. |


text:
Milk, liquid secreted by the mammary glands of female mammals to nourish their young for a period beginning immediately after birth. The milk of domesticated animals is also an important food source for humans, either as a fresh fluid or processed into a number of dairy products such as butter and cheese.
A brief treatment of milk follows. For full treatment, see dairy product.
Almost all the milk now consumed in Western countries is from the cow, and milk and milk products have become important articles of commerce. Other important sources of milk are the sheep and goat, which are especially important in southern Europe and the Mediterranean area; the water buffalo, which is widely domesticated in Asia; and the camel, which is important in the Middle East and North Africa.
Milk is essentially an emulsion of fat and protein in water, along with dissolved sugar (carbohydrate), minerals, and vitamins. These constituents are present in the milk of all mammals, though their proportions differ from one species to another and within species. The milk of each species seems to be a complete food for its own young for a considerable time after birth. In the stomachs of the young, milk is converted to a soft curd that encloses globules of fat, enabling digestion to proceed smoothly without the disturbance often caused by fatty food. Lactose, or milk sugar, is broken down into simpler digestible sugars by the enzyme lactase, which is produced in the intestine of infants. Infants who do not produce lactase develop lactose intolerance, a condition in which a variety of gastrointestinal problems arise. Lactose intolerance also commonly develops after weaning or with advancing age, when many individuals cease producing lactase.
source | energy (kcal) | fat (g) | cholesterol (mg) | protein (g) | calcium (mg) | phosphorus (mg) | carbohydrate (g) |
human | 70 | 4.38 | 14 | 1.03 | 32 | 14 | 6.89 |
cow | 61 | 3.34 | 14 | 3.29 | 119 | 93 | 4.66 |
goat | 69 | 4.14 | 11 | 3.56 | 134 | 111 | 4.45 |
sheep | 108 | 7.00 | — | 5.98 | 193 | 158 | 5.36 |
water buffalo | 97 | 6.89 | 19 | 3.75 | 169 | 117 | 5.18 |
Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Composition of Foods, Agriculture Handbook no. 8-1. |
Milk protein is of high nutritional value because it contains all the essential amino acids—i.e., those which infants cannot synthesize in the necessary quantities. Milk's mineral content includes calcium and phosphorus in quantities sufficient for normal skeletal development, but little iron. Milk contains B vitamins as well as small amounts of vitamins C and D. Commercial cow's milk is commonly enriched with vitamins D and A before sale.
Microorganisms contained in raw (unheated) milk or picked up from the environment will quickly sour and curdle the milk. Cooling to slightly above its freezing point keeps milk palatable for a longer time by reducing the multiplication of spoilage bacteria and the chemical changes that they induce.
Many countries have laws requiring that milk be pasteurized as a protection against pathogenic (disease-causing) organisms. Pasteurization is a partial sterilization accomplished by raising the milk to a temperature high enough to destroy pathogenic bacteria and a large proportion of those causing spoilage. Pasteurized milk that is kept refrigerated in closed containers will remain consumable for approximately 14 days.
Milk fat, being less dense than other milk components, can be efficiently removed in a cream separator by centrifugation, yielding low-fat milk and skim milk. Low-fat milk contains 1–2 percent fat, while skim milk contains less than 0.5 percent fat.
Much of the milk sold as a beverage has undergone homogenization, a process in which the milk is forced under high pressure through small openings to distribute the fat evenly throughout the milk.


text: On this past Tuesday's episode of Wrestling Reality 1 on 1 with Justin LaBar on TribLIVE Radio in Pittsburgh…. – Cruiserweight only show on WWE Network – The current situation for The Miz – HHH/The Undertaker future – Much more! >>>CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD BOTH PARTS OF THE SHOW FOR FREE<<<You can also now view the first segment of the radio show that features RAW recap and analysis on video: |


text:
Petrol price slashed by Rs 2 per litre
Petrol price was on Friday cut by Rs 2 per litre with effect from midnight tonight, the steepest reduction in rates in nine months.
While petrol price has been cut by Rs 2 per litre, excluding local sales tax or VAT, there will be no change in diesel rates.
After including VAT, the reduction in price of petrol in Delhi comes to Rs 2.40 per litre and the fuel will from midnight tonight cost Rs 68.34 per litre as against Rs 70.74 currently.
It was expected that oil firms will also effect the monthly hike of 40-50 paise per litre in diesel rates but they deferred the decision apparently to save the government from trouble in Parliament.
When oil firms had last hiked petrol price on March 2, the Opposition parties had disrupted one full day's proceedings.
Cities | Current Price | Revised Price | Decrease |
Delhi | 70.74 | 68.34 | 2.40 |
Kolkata | 78.34 | 75.84 | 2.50 |
Mumbai | 77.66 | 75.14 | 2.52 |
Chennai | 73.95 | 71.41 | 2.54 |
Click NEXT to read more...
Photographs: Reuters.
Petrol price slashed by Rs 2 per litre
The cut in petrol price follows two rounds of hike in rates since February. Petrol price was hiked by Rs 1.50 a litre on February 16 and then by Rs 1.40 per litre from March
Both the increases were excluding local VAT.
The reduction in rates was possible as international oil prices have eased. While the slide in international prices of crude oil from $112.73 per barrel to $107.41 enabled reduction in petrol prices, it also helped lower losses on diesel sales.
Losses on diesel have come down to Rs 8.64 per litre from Rs 11.26 at the beginning of the month, according to Indian Oil Corp (IOC) which announced the price revision.
Oil firms calculate the desired retail price on 1st and 16th of every month based on average imported oil price on the previous fortnight.
Photographs: Reuters.
Petrol price slashed by Rs 2 per litre
Petrol price had last been cut by over Rs 2 per litre in June 2012 when prices were reduced from Rs 70.24 to Rs 67.78 per litre.
IOC, the nation's largest oil firm, said rupee had depreciated marginally. "Following this trend, it has been decided to pass on the benefit to the customers," the company said in a statement.
Though petrol price had been deregulated in June 2010, they have rarely moved in tandem with cost. This resulted in Rs 500 crore loss to IOC (Rs 1,130 crore loss to state fuel retailers) during current fiscal.
However, since January, when the government decided to cut subsidises by asking oil firms to moderate prices in step with cost, petrol prices have moved in sink with cost.
Diesel prices continue to be regulated but the government had in January authorised oil firms to hike their rates by 40-50 paise per litre every month till such time that the entire revenue loss on the fuel is completely wiped off.
Click NEXT to read more...
Photographs: Reuters.
Petrol price slashed by Rs 2 per litre
More |
Oil firms raised diesel prices by 50-51 paise per litre on two occasions and today was the third opportunity but they decided not to revise rates.
IOC said in addition to losses on sale of petrol, oil firms are suffering under-recovery (revenue loss) on sale of diesel of Rs 8.64, kerosene of Rs 33.43 per litre and domestic LPG of Rs 439.00 per cylinder.
The company would end the fiscal with a revenue loss of fuel sale of around Rs Rs 86,500 crore, the statement said. The industry (IOC plus two other fuel retailers) would report a revenue loss of Rs 163,000 crore during current year.
"The movement in international oil prices and Rupee-USD exchange rate is being monitored and decision on future price changes shall be taken accordingly," the statement added.
Photographs: Reuters.


text:
Journalist Michael Totten in World Affairs Journal:
The Lost World, Part II
This is the second in a two-part series about Cuba beyond Havana.Click here for Part I.
Most of Cuba is flat with low rolling hills, but after leaving Cienfuegos and heading toward Trinidad, I saw the Escambray Mountains—home of the anti-communist insurgency known as the Escambray Rebellion—off in the distance.
The island finally had a skyline.
Those mountains might be a nice place to camp or go hiking (you would not want to camp or hike in the sweltering lowlands), but the overwhelming majority of Cubans have no way to get there. They aren't prohibited from traveling to or in the mountains, but hardly anyone owns a car. Salaries are capped at twenty dollars a month. Driving to the mountains for a day hike from Havana would cost more than a month's salary just for the gas. A bus ticket likewise costs more than a month's salary.
Then it hit me, ton-of-bricks style. Most Cubans have never seen those mountains. Nor have they seen Trinidad, one of the oldest Spanish colonial cities in the hemisphere which lies on a narrow coastal plane between the Escambray and the Caribbean.
The city threw me off balance when I stopped there for a day and a night. I had absolutely no idea what to make of this place. My preconceived notions and assessment of the country thus far got smacked in the side of the head with the force of a knock-out punch.
Cuba is a total surveillance police state and Havana has fallen to ruin, but Trinidad is both delightful and charming.
And I don't just mean Trinidad has the potential to be delightful and charming. It's delightful and charming right now. Even under communist rule.
How was this possible?
The regime wants me to describe the city this way, which makes me not want to do it, but I'm not going to lie. I'm not going to tell you every place in the country is dreary and drab when it's not.
Diego Velázquez de Cuéllar, conqueror of Cuba, founded Trinidad exactly 500 years ago, in 1514. It's older than almost every building in Paris. UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in 1988, and for good reason. Hardly any colonial city in the world is preserved as well as Trinidad.
The streets are made of stone, the roofs beautifully tiled. All the buildings and houses are colorfully painted. Every visible structure in every direction pre-dates the Industrial Revolution. The city is a living museum piece, not just of Cuba before communist rule, but of Latin America during the Conquistador era, of the world before industry and machines, before globalization and standardization and the mass society changed politics and culture for everybody forever.
Havana is also stuck in the past. Cubans themselves call it a time machine. It's largely unchanged by modern high-tech civilization—what Alvin Toffler calls the Third Wave in his landmark book of the same name. Hardly anyone has a computer, the Internet is banned in private homes, email addresses are for foreigners, cell phones are for the elite, no one can order anything from Amazon.com, and so on. Havana is firmly stuck in the Second Wave, the industrial mass society era of the assembly line, centralized bureaucracy, and the Cold War.
Continue reading HERE.


text:
After days of dismay, Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) is heading into the New Year on a high after a Barron's column made a bull case for the stock. Apple closed 4.43 percent up at $532.17.
What's Going on for Apple?
"The company's shares will eventually rebound as it refocuses on what it does best, making great products that generate huge amounts of money," Tiernan Ray wrote. In addition, a lot of the fast money in the stock has been chased away amid the recent decline, with shares dropping more than 27 percent in value since reaching a record high in September.
Our 20-page proprietary analysis of Apple's stock is ready. Click here to get your Cheat Sheet report now.
While funds were fattening their portfolios with Apple earlier in the year, David Rolfe of Wedgewood Partners told Barron's that he expected to see a "very different picture" of holdings when funds report their December-quarter changes. According to Rolfe, funds overweight Apple were the first to head toward the exit when the stock started falling. But with the company's shares now trading at just seven and a half times projected earnings of $49 a share in the fiscal year ending in September, the stock valuation, as well as earnings estimates, have become undemanding.


text:
Title: | Conflicts of Interest in Japanese Insolvencies: The Problem of Bank Rescues |
Author: |
Miwa, Yoshiro; Ramseyer, J. Mark
Note: Order does not necessarily reflect citation order of authors. |
Citation: | Yoshiro Miwa & J. Mark Ramseyer, Conflicts of Interest in Japanese Insolvencies: The Problem of Bank Rescues, 6 Theoretical Inq. L. 301 (2005). |
Full Text & Related Files: |
Conflicts of Interest in Japanese Insolvencies.pdf (224.7Kb; PDF)
Abstract: | Economists and legal scholars routinely posit an implicit contract between Japanese firms and their principal lender (called their "main bank"). Under this arrangement, the bank implicitly agrees to rescue the firm (through financial and managerial help) when times turn bad. Out of court, it rescues the firm from insolvency. Not only does it save the investments specific to the troubled firm, it lowers the use of costly bankruptcy proceedings and cuts the costs of those bankruptcy procedures firms do occasionally invoke. Given the creditor-shareholder conflicts of interest that arise as firms approach insolvency, such arrangements would seem unstable. Yet according to a long sociological tradition, conflicts of interest matter less in Japan than in the West. According to the emerging economic and legal tradition, Japanese economic actors do face those conflicts, but keep them in check through reputational concerns, close-knit ties, and government supervision. Using two datasets of troubled firms from the 1970s and 1980s, we ask whether Japanese main banks in fact rescue distressed borrowers. We find no evidence that they do: large Japanese firms fail; when large firms approach insolvency, main banks do not increase the share of the firm's debt they bear; stronger ties between distressed firms and their main bank do not facilitate loans; and troubled firms do not try to preserve their main bank relationship. All told, the claim that Japanese banks ever implicitly agreed to rescue firms is sheer myth. That Japanese banks let troubled firms fail is no recent development; it has been thus for decades. Conflicts of interest do indeed matter in Japan and long have. They matter enough to prevent precisely the incentive-incompatible rescue deals that scholars in the field so routinely posit. |
Published Version: | http://www.bepress.com/til/default/vol6/iss2/art2 |
Terms of Use: | This article is made available under the terms and conditions applicable to Other Posted Material, as set forth at http://nrs.harvard.edu/urn-3:HUL.InstRepos:dash.current.terms-of-use#LAA |
Citable link to this page: | http://nrs.harvard.edu/urn-3:HUL.InstRepos:2766351 |
Downloads of this work: |
Contact administrator regarding this item (to report mistakes or request changes)


text:
Because of the effect on the skin of Lymphedema itself, as well as the effects of treating Lymphedema with gradient compression, proper skin care is a crucial and important component of an overall Lymphedema treatment and management regimen. (read more)
Maintaining healthy and well moisturized skin will help keep the tissues intact and prevent an environment that is susceptible to open wounds. Once started, even the smallest of wounds, if left untreated, can quickly become a very serious problem for those who suffer from Lymphedema.
Skin should be moisturized at least once daily by using a specially formulated moisturizing emollient which will help make the outer layer of skin softer and more pliable. There are several types of skin care products, including those that are made from all natural ingredients, to help keep skin moisturized and healthy. Off the shelf perfumed body lotions should be avoided as they may actually help dry the skin and make the condition worse. If skin is already dry or flaky, enzyme creams can be used to help repair severely dry or damaged skin.
(read less)Address:
2284 NW 82nd Ave, Doral, FL 33122
(800) 770-1032
Working Days/Hours:
Mon - Fri / 9:00AM - 5:00PM EST


text:
Kellye Sliger of Rockwood was awarded a master's degree in public health during fall commencement at Emory University.
Emory is in Atlanta and boasts Georgia's largest and most comprehensive health care system.
If you currently subscribe or have subscribed in the past to the Roane County News, then simply find your account number on your mailing label and enter it below.
Click the question mark below to see where your account ID appears on your mailing label.
If you are new to the award winning Roane County News and wish to get a subscription or simply gain access to our online content then please enter your ZIP code below and continue to setup your account.
ZIP Code: | |


text:
Thread Tools | Display Modes |
Join Date: Jul 2009
Posts: 2
Rewards Points: 10
Installing 3/4" Engineered Hardwood over Particle board
I want to replace my carpet floors with hardwood. Under the carpet is particle board over plywood. I have seen many references saying that you should NOT nail or staple hardwood flooring onto particle board. As an alternative to replacing the particle board with plywood, I have chosen to look at a floating hardwood floor solution. I wanted to install something that had the same look, thickness, and feel as ¾ hardwood. While searching for such options, I found the Bruce Westchester line of ¾ Engineered hardwood floors (Westchester) which supported glue or staple or floating installation methods. To my surprise, the possible installer (from the store, a major regional retailer, I would buy the wood) recommends to staple it onto the particle board/plywood and NOT float it. This is because this line of engineered flooring is tongue and groove requiring glue to hold the planks together, and not click and lock like you see on most engineered and laminate floors, and he feels that glue will not keep the joints tight-fitting because of thickness and mass of these planks. I pointed out to him that the actual Bruce installation manual recommends not to nail or staple into particle board and does recommend floating. So, my first question is Should I listen to this installer ignoring Bruce installation instructions and most of the negative feedback on nailing/stapling hardwood on particle board, or find another installer? My second question Does anyone have any experience (especially floating it) with this new line of Bruce ¾ Engineered flooring? My third question can you recommend other ¾ thick engineered or solid floating floors? (ie Floor & Décor have a proprietary clipping system that allows you to float their ¾ solid hardwood) Thanks for your time Advertisement |
Join Date: Dec 2008
Location: Wilmington, DE
Posts: 3,118
Rewards Points: 2,000
I would not install anything over particle board. It is not really good as an underlayment.
Advertisement |
Join Date: Jan 2009
Posts: 489
Rewards Points: 250
By particle board, do you mean osb, mdf, or advantech? How thick is it? You said you have plywood underneath? How thick is that? Nails and staples will not hold in softer underlayment like osb and mdf. If the surface is too rough it will not allow the flooring to be installed properly. If the "particle" board is not too thick, and the plywood underneath is 3/4 and the flooring staples are long enough it would work. However, you mentioning a big box store and their installer makes me think that this is not the case. Best to have a local flooring company come and give you a second opinion.
Josh Jaros Remodeling in The Woodlands, Texas www.jarosbros.com |
Join Date: Jul 2009
Posts: 2
Rewards Points: 10
Thanks for the feedback.
My undersatanding is particle board won't hold a nail. I'm not sure, but I think the PB is 3/4" over 3/4" plywood. A 2" nail at a 45degree angle will hardly penetrate into the plywood. I do not see mfg markings on the particle board. It is white, looks like compressed sawdust, and various contractors over the years have called it Particle board. It has done a fine job as underlayment for carpets in our house over the last 25 years. In my mind, I'm basically replacing the current floating floor (carpet) with an engineered floating floor. If it was structurally sound enough to function under carpet, I figured it could handle the engineered floating floor. But there seems to be a large grey area about keeping the wood plank joints tight using glue, as opposed to the 'fold & lock' method. Problem is, the thicker engineered products (this is 3/4" thick) do not come in 'fold and lock'. And this is Bruce, not some no-name. I have written to them directly to confirm they warrant a glue-together floating installation over particle board. The large regional retailer I referred to is a flooring company. |
Join Date: Jan 2011
Posts: 5
Rewards Points: 10
Well first and foremost technically speeking the thickness of the wood is not what you feel when you step on it, it is really just a mind set. The difference is the accoustics of the floor. For instance a 5/16 would have more of a tapping sound versus a 3/4 but it also depends on how it is installed. If you float the hardwood its not going to feel like what most people are used to which is a nailed 3/4 wood. You could possibly save yourself some money going with a 1/2 engineered doing a full glue install and it will feel and sound great under your feet. One thing you will also find is your trim is usually set lower for carpet so going with something a little thinner may also work out in your favor by not having to raise your base. As far as the particle board goes taylor adhesives makes a sealer you can put down first before your adhesive that will help seal the floor as it is porous and can soak up your adhesive making it not stretch as far as you like.
Thread Tools | |
Display Modes | |
Similar Threads | ||||
Thread | Thread Starter | Forum | Replies | Last Post |
installing backer board over particle board | bob mac | Flooring | 6 | 07-16-2013 03:15 PM |
Installing backerboard - replace particle board? | salvop | Flooring | 10 | 04-29-2011 10:32 PM |
refinishing hardwood floors that have particle board over them | skullface | Flooring | 3 | 06-02-2009 05:52 AM |
Method for installing 3/8" engineered hardwood | poolecw | Flooring | 10 | 10-31-2008 03:10 PM |
Installing floating engineered hardwood in entrance and stair stringers | bluedisc22 | Flooring | 3 | 01-25-2008 02:03 PM |


text:
Your Cart
List Price: $30.00
Add to Cart
Candidate Performance Products Page
Candidate Performance on the Uniform CPA Examination
2011 Window Q-2
Authored by Nasba
The National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) publishes a quarterly summary of candidate performance on the Uniform CPA Examination. This edition covers the second testing window of 2011 (April - June). In addition to the overall performance statistics, data and trends for each of the Jurisdictions are also provided.
Note that the 2011 editions of the quarterly performance books do not include institution/school specific data. Below is a list of the main data points and trends that are available in this publication
2-year Trends (8 quarters)
o Candidate count
o Section count
o Pass rate
o New candidates vs candidates passing 4th section
Additional data points
o Jurisdiction rankings: Candidates, sections, pass rate, score, age
o First Time & Re-Exam: Section count, score, pass rate
o Section (AUD/BEC/FAR/REG): Section count, score, pass rate
o Demographics: Gender, average age
o Residency (based on home address): In-State, Out of State, International
o Degree Type
Publication Date:
1937642038 / 9781937642037
Page Count:
Binding Type:
US Trade Paper
Trim Size:
8.5" x 11"
Full Color
Related Categories:
Business & Economics / Accounting / General
Site Help
Order Help


text:
Friday, May 20, 2011
2 comments:
- Marrow said...
- May 20, 2011 at 10:57 PM
- Morgan said...
Oh man, I had this prop years ago. I hung it up on my balcony outside my bed room during the day. But when I went to bed that night, I opened my door to this gigantic skeleton shadow on my wall. Scared me half to death.
- May 22, 2011 at 4:51 PM
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)


text:
Mid-2012 MacBook Airs offer improved performance and connectivity
Thanks to upgraded processors and graphics capabilities, along with both Thunderbolt and USB 3 for expansion, it's getting tougher and tougher to say the Air isn't a "full-featured" laptop. And you no longer have to give up a good chunk of performance if you want to go light.
Sign your PDFs electronically using Preview
Instead of mailing paper or sending faxes, these days we can email important documents. But for many people, the biggest hurdle to going all-digital is signatures: How do you sign a PDF document? In this week's Macworld video, we show you how to electronically sign your PDF document using tools you've already got on your Mac.
It's time for our annual GemFest (a.k.a., Summer of Gems), so starting today and continuing through mid-August, we'll be reviewing a new Mac Gem every day (except Sunday). Some of the programs are simple, some more complex. Some will be niche-y, while others will be programs everyone should use. The one thing they all have in common is that each is a Mac Gem.
NoteTote lets you download files remotely
NoteTote is a clever utility that lets you download files to your Mac no matter where you are, or what device you're using, when you come across the link.
Change Hidden iTunes Preferences lets you tweak iTunes options
iTunes has a good number of hidden settings that affect how the program works and what options are available to you. Change Hidden iTunes Preferences presents the settings in an easy-to-use interface.
Clamcase announces Clambook docking station for iPhone, Android
Clamcase has revealed the Clambook, a laptop-like docking station that provides a larger screen and a physical keyboard for your iPhone or Android smartphone.
Three Gems-heavy bundles offer great bargains
Three current software bundles include Mac Gems, offering a slew of good software at even-better-than-usual prices.
CheatSheet helps you find and remember keyboard shortcuts
Like former Gem KeyCue, CheatSheet makes it easy to discover and remember keyboard shortcuts for particular applications.
CleanMyDrive lets you monitor and clean removable drives
CleanMyDrive lets you monitor connected drives and mounted volumes, but it can also automatically clean thumb drives and other removable drives to keep them free of cruft.
Logitech announces Wireless Solar Keyboard K760 for Mac and iOS
Logitech on Wednesday announced the Wireless Solar Keyboard K760, a solar-powered desktop keyboard that can be paired with up to three devices (for example, a Mac, an iPad, and an iPhone) at the same time.
Justnotes is an elegant notes app that syncs across devices
Justnotes is an elegant plain-text-notes app that syncs across devices using Simplenote and Dropbox.
The Mac Gems blog focuses on reviews of great, inexpensive software, but every once in a while we call your attention to past Gems that are currently even less expensive. Here are 13 Gems you can get for a steal.
Promising Prospect: EdgeCase enhances multiple-display setups
EdgeCase is a unique utility that gives you the user-interface benefits of a single display when using multiple displays.
DragonDrop makes moving things more convenient
DragonDrop is a simple utility that gives you a temporary place to store files, folders, and other content, making it easier to move those items between windows, applications, and workspaces.
Lion DiskMaker makes it easier to create a bootable Lion installer
We've written at length about how to create a bootable installer for Lion (OS X 10.7). Lion DiskMaker simplifies the process.


text:
Hello, thanks for the forum.
I am posting here because i wrote to philips support asking for a feature on this model tv and even though they update its firmware several times they didnt added that feature. I think that it is very important because it will allow everybody to use the option of watching films with the correct aspect ratio. surprisingly enough, that feature exists in the hdmi, and tuner input, but not in the usb or dlna input. Why?
After i wrote to philips support with the suggestion they called me very kindly, but they didnt fixed it. I think it shouldnt have to be too difficult to do. They have the tools and the source code.
thanks for reading me
and I hope someone from philips reads this and correct this flaw.
thanks again


text:
Proteins with unstable 3-D structures help the microscopic animals withstand drying.
Scientists develop a gel that mimics mollusc glue to coat the insides of blood vessels.
Scientists develop a gel that mimics mollusc glue to coat the insides of blood vessels.
The method to the dengue virus's maddening infectiousness.
Although fully organized patient-run trials are still few and far between, patients are taking a more active role in clinical research.
The global spread of dengue virus has immunologists and public-health experts debating the best way to curb infection.
Patients are sidestepping clinical research and using themselves as guinea pigs to test new treatments for fatal diseases. Will they hurt themselves, or science?
A study suggests that some mouse models do not accurately mimic human molecular mechanisms of inflammatory response, but other mouse strains may fare better.
One of the most advanced tuberculosis vaccines has failed to protect infants from getting the disease in a clinical trial, but it may be effective in adults.
With dogged persistence and an unwillingness to entertain defeat, Bruce Beutler discovered a receptor that powers the innate immune response to infections—and earned his share of a Nobel Prize.
Some of these insidious viruses expertly subvert the host immune system, allowing their unhindered proliferation.


text:
Researchers at the McGowan Institute are involved in the development of new therapies at all stages, from experiments at the laboratory bench to administering treatments at a patient's bedside.
Before a new medical treatment is made available to patients in doctors' offices and hospitals, it must undergo a process of development and testing that can take several years — or even multiple decades. Development of a new therapy usually begins on a small scale in test tubes and Petri dishes at the laboratory bench. As researchers gather evidence and refine techniques, they typically will translate their work to larger and larger scales.
Once a new therapy has proven safe and effective in preclinical studies, small-scale testing in human volunteers can begin. If these initial tests, known as clinical trials, are promising, they are then expanded to include larger and larger numbers of people. Finally, when a new treatment has proven safe and effective, it can be introduced into clinical practice.
At the McGowan Institute we passionately perform the most rigorous research to make sure that this necessarily long process of verification and approval from scientific, hospital, and government regulators is not slowed in any way. We also work diligently to prove our treatments to companies that can produce and market them so they can benefit patients as quickly as possible.
How Do I Get Treatment? Regenerative medicine is a new approach. As such, many treatments are still in development. But some already are in use by physicians. Visit this page to find out more about specific conditions.
How Can I Participate in a Clinical Research Study? The University of Pittsburgh Office of Clinical Research has a searchable database of studies.
For help in finding a doctor or health service that suits your needs, call the UPMC Referral Service at 412-647-UPMC (8762) or 1-800-533-UPMC (8762). Select option 1.
UPMC is an equal opportunity employer. UPMC policy prohibits discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, genetics, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, familial status, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected group status. Further, UPMC will continue to support and promote equal employment opportunity, human dignity, and racial, ethnic, and cultural diversity. This policy applies to admissions, employment, and access to and treatment in UPMC programs and activities. This commitment is made by UPMC in accordance with federal, state, and/or local laws and regulations.
Medical information made available on UPMC.com is not intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should not rely entirely on this information for your health care needs. Ask your own doctor or health care provider any specific medical questions that you have. Further, UPMC.com is not a tool to be used in the case of an emergency. If an emergency arises, you should seek appropriate emergency medical services.
UPMC Pittsburgh, PA, USA | UPMC.com


text:
Meet Deirdre Coleman Imus. Deidre is the wife of Don Imus, a popular radio talk show host and "shock jock." Read her biography and see photos and a video below.
Deidre Coleman Imus
Deirdre Imus is an author, actress, an entrepreneur, environmentalist and a philanthropist. She and her husband, Don Imus, recently announced that Don has been diagnosed with Stage II prostate cancer. Deirdre and Don have both said that his prognosis is excellent, and both have said his treatment will be based on the "best wiener warranty" they can find. You can listen to the statement here. Deirdre is a frequent guest on her husband's show, Imus in the Morning.
Deirdre Coleman was born in 1964 and spent her girlhood in Waterbury, CT. Her brother, Ed Coleman, is a radio personality and sportscaster with WFAN in New York City.
She graduated Villanova University in Pennsylvania. She began her acting career in the late 1990's, appearing in Form, Space & Murder, Watchers Reborn, One Tough Cop and Directing Eddie.
Deirdre is a celebrated environmentalist and has written numerous books with an environmental theme, including the Green This! series.
The Imus' are co-founders of the Imus Cattle Ranch for Kids with Cancer, a charitable organization located in Ribera, New Mexico, about 50 miles southeast of Santa Fe. The goal of the ranch, founded in 1999, is to provide children with a healthy lifestyle, and confidence-building experience by living and working on a functioning cattle ranch. The children reside at the ranch for seven days when school is out-of-session. They have chores to do, such as feeding animals, gathering eggs, planting and watering plants. Interaction with horses is one of the highlights for the kids. Corporations are significant donors. Reader's Digest, General Motors and Wrangler Jeans are among the funders.
Every Spring, WFAN Radio features a Radiothon to raise money for the ranch. A line of organic cleaning products and foods, marketed under the "Imus Ranch Foods" label are sold in supermarkets and online to benefit the charity. After-tax profits are donated to the ranch. The after-tax profits from Dierdre Imus' book, The Imus Ranch: Cooking for Kids and Cowboys, also helps fund the ranch.
The Imus family volunteers their time with the children at the ranch between Memorial Day and Labor Day each year. The ranch guests also includes the brothers and sisters of SIDS victims.
Deirdre Imus is the founder and president of the Deirdre Imus Environmental Center for Pediatric Oncology, which is a part of the Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey. In 2007, she was named to the Board of Directors. The Center received the "Quality New Jersey's Environmental Award" in 2006.
She has received numerous distinguished awards, personally. She was given an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from Pace University in recognition of her advocacy on behalf of children's environmental health. She was one of four women recipients to receive the National Audubon Society's Rachel Carson Award for Women in Conservation, for which she was cited as "a pioneer inspiring parents and schools to clean using non-toxic products." She was Spectrum magazine's Person of the Year, named a "Champion for Autism" by the Autism Education Foundation, and the U.S.O of Metropolitan New York honored her as their "Woman of the Year" in 2008. Her husband was a former Marine.
Deidre Coleman married Don Imus on December 17, 1994. She is 24 years younger than her husband. They have one son together, Frederick Wyatt, born in 1998. They share their time among three residences: Manhattan, Westport, CT and the New Mexico Ranch. (Click the photos below to enlarge.)
Deirdre Coleman Imus and Don Imus (Video)
Photos: WENN.com


text: The Battlelink Utility Low Profile Stock is the evolution of battlefield technology. Manufactured using a specially developed Military Grade reinforced, super tough polyamide, and with Advances in materials, this allows for an unsurpassed weight to strength ratio and results in a stock that is lighter and stronger than anything similar currently on the market. Putting the stock to your shoulder is the foundation of any stock. Holding true to the basics while adding functionality was our goal. With heavy input from operators from all spectrums we saw the need to make a stock that adapts to the users demands. This stock adapts and changes to your environment or operational needs, from storing additional items to utilizing custom accessory mounts and is able to accept any type of sling configuration. There is one sling slot option and two quick detach mounts, forward and rear. MFT's accessories can easily be mounted Utilizing the sling slots and accessory rails, this includes Garmin 401 Mounts or a adjustable cheek piece. Taken as a whole, this makes our stock superior in today's AR accessories market. BULS Features and Functions • Slide-on replacement for original collapsible butt stock. • Angled non-slip buttpad allows faster presentation, even with body armor. • Pivoting rear accessed large and watertight storage compartment • Customizable foam storage block with quick access tab diminishes rattle • Quick Detach Sling mounting points (2) are positioned for optimum usage • Upper section provides enhanced cheek weld • Patent Pending • Made in the USA • Instruction Sheet • Accessory mounting provisions - BACP • Accessory mounting provisions - B401UM • Accessory mounting provisions - B401LM • Available in MIL SPEC (BULSMIL) • Click Here For Instructional Video


text:
(Item #17263-1) 55″ x 44″ European Home, W. Benecke.
Price $495.00, April 20 – $420.75, May 20 – $356.40
Village Treasure House is a unique, not-for-profit consignment shop with over 100 dedicated volunteers. Located in Northbrook on the border of Glenview, we are a furniture consignment and home furnishings consignment warehouse in Chicago's North Shore area. When you consign, donate and shop at our store, you are supporting an amazing group of 17 local agencies.
Additional parking is now available: Look for the "VTH Additional Parking" Signs
Showroom Hours Tuesday - Saturday 10am to 5pm
Consignment accepted Wednesday - Saturday 10am - 2pm
Print and complete our Walk-In Consignment Form
Find us on Facebook.
Sign up to receive our e-mails.
View our privacy statement.
December Grants 2015
The Village treasure House is proud to announce the distribution of $130,000 in grants this December, providing support to 17 local agencies. serving women and families in crisis. Since 1998, we have given away $2,020,000!
Visit us weekly! We update the What's New page every Tuesday. Our showroom features new items on Tuesdays and Fridays.
View Video


text:
Do you want to make Ohio.com your homepage?
XINDEPENDENCE: Dion Waiters expects to play Tuesday when the Cavaliers host the San Antonio Spurs.
Waiters missed seven games with a knee injury and is the first of the Cavs' injured trio to return. Mike Brown said there was a slim chance Anderson Varejao could also return Tuesday, but that isn't likely. C.J. Miles is still out with a sprained ankle and said he hopes to be ready to play by the start of the Cavs' West Coast trip on March 12.
Waiters participated in all of Monday's practice, while Varejao participated in about half of it.
"I feel good. The knee feels good, just a little bit of aching. But it's OK," Waiters said. "
I'm looking forward to playing tomorrow, looking forward to getting out there with my team. They've been playing great basketball ball the last couple games."
Waiters hyperextended his knee when he landed awkwardly following a dunk.
"I thought I tore something right away," Waiters said. "But I'm just thankful. I thank God every day for not tearing anything."
Waiters leads all Eastern Conference reserves in scoring, averaging 14.5 points and 2.8 assists off the bench. He's averaging 14.3 points and shooting 42 percent on the season.


text:
Selecting your vehicle's model and year allows us to display only parts and items specific to your car's model and year.
Part# SCG0135
Be the First to Review
OPGI Price: $24.99
Brand: Surf City Garage Part Type: (A) Aftermarket product, usually an enhancement product Years: 1978-88 Sold As: EACH 2017 Late Malibu Catalog Page: 160
Precision drag-reducing detailer. Gloss-enhancing polymers are clear coat safe. This easy-to-apply formula repels dust and dirt.


text:
Friday, August 10th, 2012 Edition of The Daily Standard
Online Local News Stories
CELINA - Dorothy Buckloh slices a cherry pie into generous wedges as Unity Grange embarks on its 75th anniversary of serving meals at the Mercer County Fair.
Buckloh, 92, said she vividly remembers opening day back in 1937. Som . . .
CELINA - Even though they would be lifting hundreds and hundreds of pounds over the next few hours, the group of powerlifters working at Musclehead's Gym in Celina starts simple - with an empty bar.
The bar will be stacked even . . .
Print and E-Edition Only News Stories
• Engineer's office debuts road-widening program
• New temperature records established thoughout the United States
• Father's trial set in death of child
• Park visitors may soon cross canal
• State official: Farmers need to do better on where, when they apply fertilizer
Local Obituaries
Former Celina resident Donald F. Sell, 89, St. Francis, Wis., died July 28, 2012.
He was born Jan. 28, 1923, in Dayton, to William and Grace Gugel Sell. On Jan. 24, 1948, he married Joan Marie Jacob, who died in 2000.
Survivi . . .
Dalton Luth, 86, Celina, died at 6 a.m. Aug. 9, 2012, at his residence.
He was born Sept. 27, 1925, in Hopewell Township to Lee Roy and Ruth Hays Luth. After the passing of his first wife Thelma June Fisher in 1986, he married . . .
Mary "Jane" Albers, 65, Fort Loramie, died Aug. 8, 2012, at her residence.
She was born Aug. 15, 1946, in Piqua to Cyril and Rosella "Sally" Seger Monnier. On Sept. 7, 1968, she married Norman Albers, who survives.
Also survi . . .
Kent A. "Captain" Dilworth, 51, Fort Recovery, died Aug. 9, 2012, at Mercer County Community Hospital in Coldwater.
He was born Nov. 14, 1960, in Celina to Francis "Lefty" and Betty Trout Dilworth. His mother survives in Fort R . . .
Carl B. Stammen, 82, St. Henry, died Aug. 8, 2012, at Mercer County Community Hospital, Coldwater.
He was born Feb. 9, 1930, in New Weston to Joseph and Josephine Weis Stammen. On Sept. 12, 1953, he married Ruth Huber, who surv . . .
Local Pictures
Tuesday Night
Wednesday Night
Thursday Night
Friday Night
Saturday Night
Sunday Night
3 Day


text:
Working (or living) within a Linux-based network is become more and more commonplace. And with the popularity of Mac OS X rising, Apple-based computers have to play well inside a Linux network. With the help of Samba this is not only possible, it's easy to configure and establish. Let's take a look at how an OS X computer connects to a Samba share.
Before we get started I wanted to make note that this is not an in-depth article on setting up Samba. We will touch base on getting Samba up and running so the Mac OS X machine can connect to it, but primarily this is about OS X's ability to connect.
This blog post is also available in PDF form as a TechRepublic download.
Basic Samba configuration
The first thing you need to do is set up the Samba Security mode. This is located (in Fedora-based Linux distributions) in /etc/samba and the file is called smb.conf. You will have to have root access in order to make these modifications. So open up a console window, su to root, and open up the smb.conf file in your favorite editor.
The first option you are going to change is the workgroup option. Change this to match the workgroup you use on your network. The next option you need to do is change the security= option. We are going to change that option to security = user. The next option is the hosts allow option. You want to set this to the range used on your network.
For example: In my home network I use the 192.168.1.x address scheme. You might also want to allow for all localhosts.
Now scroll on down further in the smb.conf file to locate the [homes] section. This is where you configure the default location that will contain those logging into the Samba share. A typical configuration will look like Listing A.Listing A
[homes]comment = Home Directories
browseable = yes
writable = yes
read only = no
public = yes
Now the above section can cause you some security issues. You will want to make sure your network is secure and that the data housed in this Share isn't critical information. Why? Because you are making it available to anyone that has a Samba login name/password. Granted you get a modicum of control by only giving Samba usernames/passwords to trusted users.
For basic Samba configuration that is all you need to do with smb.conf. Now you need to add Samba users and passwords. These users and passwords will be used when a user attempts to log onto a Samba share from the Mac OS X machine. To add a Samba user you will run (on the Linux machine as root) the smbpasswd command:
smbpasswd -a USERNAME
At which point you will be prompted (twice) to enter a password. Once that is done you are ready to fire up the Samba daemon. To start the Samba daemon issue the command (again as root) /etc/rc.d/init.d/smb start which will start up Samba. You should get no errors.
Now you are ready to hop on over to your Mac OS X machine.
Connecting from Mac OS X
The first thing you need to do is open up a Finder window. (Figure A)Figure A
Your standard Finder window
To quickly start a connection hit the [Apple] key and the [K] key together. You will then be prompted to enter a server address. As you can see in Figure B, you will enter the actual server IP address preceded by smb:// once you enter the information click OK.Figure B
If you hit the + sign you can add this Samba server to your favorites list making connecting even easier
Now you are ready to select your SMB mount point. As we have configured in smb.conf our only available mount point is homes as shown in Figure C. So click OK to continue.Figure C
If there are more mount points configured in smb.conf they will appear in the drop down list
Now you will be prompted for the username/password you added with the smbpasswd command as shown in Figure D. Enter this and click OK.Figure D
Username and password
You can also add this username/password combination to your OS X keychain by clicking the checkbox. If this machine is shared, I do not recommend this option for security purposes.
Once the machine has connected to the Samba share you will see the directories/files appear in the Finder listing as well as a representative icon on the desktop. (Figure E)Figure E
Because of the configuration in smb.conf your user should be able to read and write files to the Samba share
You are all set.
Now in order to disconnect from the Samba share you simple do a Ctrl-click and select Eject "HOMES" from the options. (Figure F) Once you do that your machine will disconnect from the Samba share.Figure F
Another method of disconnecting is to click and drag the icon to the trash bin on the dock. You can also click the eject button associated with HOMES in the Finder.
Final thoughts
Connecting an OS X machine to a Samba share couldn't be any easier. Just remember to keep your security tight so that rogue users cannot gain access to your Samba shares. If you have more complex needs with Samba make sure you visit the Samba Web site for more information.
Full Bio
Jack Wallen is an award-winning writer for TechRepublic and Linux.com. He's an avid promoter of open source and the voice of The Android Expert. For more news about Jack Wallen, visit his website jackwallen.com.


text:
Sacrificially Serve - Tuesday
Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Have you ever had someone love you so much or loved someone so much that a head-shake is given to the silly things they do? You know what I'm talking about? Shake-my-head love. When a friend or loved one does something unwise and, instead of dismissing them from relationship, you or they just shake the head and perhaps give a proverbial Bless their heart?
Sacrifice is the surrender or destruction of something prized or desirable, for the sake of something considered as having a higher or more pressing claim. When it comes to our families, we are designed to surrender ourselves, or destroy our own wants and needs for those of someone else. In scripture, the phrase living sacrifice is used to help us understand the sacrifice is not a one-time thing. Unlike an animal, we are not sacrificed once-and-for-all. Instead, we live. We live to sacrifice ourselves again and again. This is great love. This is the kind of love God showed us by sending His Son to live on earth, be crucified, die, and be resurrected for us. This is wondrous love. He considered us greater than Himself and expects us to live sacrificially and consider others better than ourselves. Even in those shake-our-head, bless-their-heart moments.
Each of us has the opportunity to obediently show this sort of sacrificial love to our family members – biologically, and within the household of faith.
- When was the last time you showed, without expectation of reward, sacrificial love for family?
- How might you show sacrificial love for family – biologically and inside the household of faith – today?
For more information, contact Adaryll.


text:
Grand Theater
Discover the story of the Grand Theater from its predecessor, the Grand Opera House (1899-1927) to the construction of the Grand in 1927, and through the years of transition from a vaudeville silent movie house (1928-1930) to a motion picture Theater (1931-1985) and then to a performing artsTheater after the 1986 renovation. The restored theater is now a performing arts center for the Wausau area.
Hours of Operation
Call or check Web site for schedule.
Coming from the South Highway 51/I-39. Take exit 192, or exit for Hwy 52 East follow 52 East into town to the WausauCenter Mall. At light on 1st & Washington Str, JC Penney store on your right. Take a left onto 1st St & get in right lane for an immediate right on Jefferson St. East 2 blocks to 4th St. Parking available 1 1/2 blocks east in municipal lot on right or US Bank lot on left.
- Disabled Access
History/Heritage Type
- Wisconsin History
Performing Arts Type
- Theatre
- Music
- Dance


text:
The Good: Colorful art style, solid controls and platforming, memorable characters, fun mini-games, gameplay makes you feel like a sneaky thief
The Bad: A bit short, one hit and you're dead, some frustrating spots, cheap deaths
I am not sure why I passed this game up all these years, but I am sad that I did. Finally being able to play it, I realize just how well it stands up today. Sly Cooper and his gang are trying to retrieve the Thievius Raccoonus which is a book of secrets passed on from thief to thief in Sly's family. The evil Clockwerk and several of his henchmen stole a page each, and it is up to you to get them back.
The first thing you will notice about the game is how well it controls. The movement is buttery smooth with great platforming and gameplay mechanics. Sly can double jump, but his main mechanic is his cane. He can use it to swing around and attack, but there are also ways to sneak around like a thief that just feel really whimsical. When you see blue sparkles on ledges you can hold circle and sneak around them. When Sly moves around a sneaking sound plays instead of footsteps which is really neat. This also goes for poles and other areas to climb. Just jump near it and hold circle and Sly will cling on. This mechanic is very well done and makes platforming a lot of fun. Combat is pretty simple where you just whack away with your cane and all enemies die in one hit. This isn't as easy as you think because you die in one hit too. There are traps and obstacles to avoid such as lasers and spotlights. Some times you will have to think a little to find a way around an enemy who is blocking the path.
There are five levels and four of them focus around a central hub with branching mini-levels. There is a level to infiltrate each hub, and within these hubs are clue bottles to open a vault in each level. These vaults contain new moves for Sly which come in really handy. It is a lot of fun finding these bottles because the levels are pretty short and aren't too hard to find. Some levels are actually mini-games that consist of covering Murray on a turret, a dual stick shooter mini-game, or even a race. These are really hard and require quick reflexes or you will die often. Before you ask, yes there are lives in this game, but 100 coins gives you a 1-up, but other than that the coins are useless.
The boss fights are really fun in this game, but also really tough. They require precise movement and patience because one hit and you are dead in this game. Yes, that sounds really brutal, but it is true. You can get magnets that act as free hits but these are pretty rare. In fact, that is probably the most frustrating thing about this game is that in just one hit you are dead. This includes falling in water or off a ledge. Later, in vaults, you can find a page that prevents you from dying when falling off ledges or in water which is a life saver (literally). Before that though, you will die dozens and dozens of times because there are some cheap deaths in this game but, because of how fun it is you will quickly get over it.
The art style is beautiful with a cell shaded comic book look that wasn't really seen in games before Sly. The graphics look great even for today, but that probably has a lot to do with the art style hiding the lack of technical prowess of the PS2. The voice acting is a bit spotty, but it brings out the characters which is nice. I just wish I could have played as Bentley or Murray more. They are all great characters and need more time in the spotlight. If this game just wasn't so short and infuriatingly difficult in spots it would be perfect.
Overall, Sly Cooper is a great entry to one of the best franchises ever created and is a pinnacle for the PS2. Solid controls, excellent platforming, fun combat, and a whimsical art style make this a must own in your collection.


text:
Just a few minutes ago, I just flipped on the part where Luke catches his lightsaber on the skiff and all hell breaks loose as he takes on Jabba's henchmen and a Jedi ATTACKS!
Then I watched the speederbike chase and the start of the Ewok Battle and some of the ship-to-ship combat from ROTJ.
The sound effects are amazing and the clarity is unreal!
I especially like being able to magnify and zoom in on any background image or detail and check stuff out.
I noticed "the Emperor's slug" is gone, though I didn't watch every part of him sitting in the chair.
Anyway, do you know how seriously cool it is to have the classic trilogy all digital and having any scene available at your finger tips?
Truly Cool Dude!


text:
Kurt Vile - Bowery Ballroom - 5/16/13
Kurt Vile |
Kurt Vile Bowery Ballroom 5/16/13
Kurt Vile is a golden god. We already knew he was a king, at least, but once he took the Bowery Ballroom stage last night in head-to-toe white denim as Violator Jesse Trbovich triumphantly pumped his guitar in the air, it was an absolute. The venue's house music swelled, like the school band playing as their star football players run onto the field, as the band took its position in front of a giant Kurt Vile and the Violators banner. The illusion shifted a little, not when Vile took off his jacket to reveal a totally rock star leopard-print lining, but when he actually tried to take it off. In one of the musician's many endearingly awkward moments onstage, he struggled to shrug his arms out of the sleeves as his guitar man waited patiently, holding one of Vile's six guitars.
Like any genius, musical or otherwise, there were times last night when Vile seemed to exist in his own world. After about five songs, he suddenly dropped his guitar and ran offstage with no warning or explanation ("Bathroom break," someone in the audience said). He even took a very long 30 seconds to check his iPhone while the rest of his bandmates were setting up, leaving his guitar man hanging yet again. But those moments revealed the human behind the hero, the husband and father of two who goes to band practice only after his kids are in bed.
One of the last times Vile brought his third full-length and magnum opus Wakin' On a Pretty Daze to New York, it was an acoustic performance for a select few at Electric Lady Studios. This time, obviously, he brought the Violators and some friends to warm up the audience. One of the two openers, the Missouri-born singer and guitarist Angel Olsen, provided a mesmerizing foil to Vile's full-band squalls with just an accompanying cellist. Olsen has an almost unbelievable range, warbling low in the throat like Patsy Cline one minute and sweeping into the wispy upper ranges of Laura Veirs the next. Then there was her stage banter: "Well, goddamn, where's my juice?" she asked, looking for her beer. "Y'all got your juice?" she asked the audience, clinking drinks with her cellist.
Upcoming Events
Munich Philharmonic Orch
TicketsSun., Apr. 2, 7:00pm
Paxtor, Micky, Evelyn Cools, Alex Martin
TicketsMon., Apr. 3, 7:00pm
Sinners Are Winners the Invocation Album Release Party
TicketsWed., Apr. 5, 8:00pm
Town Hall Presents Anoushka Shankar
TicketsWed., Apr. 5, 8:00pm
As the crowd swelled for Kurt Vile, so did the background chatter, which became painfully obvious during Olsen's quiet verses. Only Vile's understated yet loud stage presence could quiet the crowd. He started late because all those damn pedal boards take a while to set up, but it was worth it. The sound was impeccable. For the first few songs--including "Wakin' On A Pretty Day", the most perfect nine-minute song that ever was--his voice was a bit too low in the mix, but the sound engineers brought up the volume soon enough. Though Vile has undoubtedly developed as an artist from the tape recordings of 2008's Constant Hitmaker to the master strokes of Wakin', his music is so timeless that the gentle click track behind "Baby's Arms" sounded as fully realized and relevant as the drums on the preceding saxophone-blasted mindfuck "Freak Train".
Audience members seemed to respond the most when the Violators left Vile in a stage-lit halo with just an acoustic guitar for "Peeping Tomboy." "I don't want to change, but I don't want to stay the same," Vile sang, delicately finger-picking his way around the issue. "I don't want to get a job, but I don't want to sit around." Amen, underemployed 25-to-34-year-olds in the audience. One girl's face in the audience was immaculately streaked with tears, her black eyeliner still intact. For a second it seemed like Vile was reaching her on a more profound level than the rest of us, but then I remembered the two bald guys next to me grinning like idiots as they tapped out "Jesus Fever" on the monitors in front of them. That's the beauty of Kurt Vile.
Critical Bias: None. Kurt Vile is inarguably an extraordinarily talented songwriter.
Random Notebook Dump: But I was surprised he could pull off white jeans.
Overheard: The guy next to me told his friend that he was taking the bus to Boston tomorrow to see Vile again. "That's hardcore," his friend responded.
Setlist: Wakin' On a Pretty Day Jesus Fever Was All Talk KV Crush On Tour Shame Chamber Girl Called Alex Ghost Town Snowflakes Are Dancing Peeping Tomboy Hunchback Freak Train Encore Baby's Arms He's Alright
Follow @soundofthecity
Related Location
In Case You Missed It
Upcoming Events
Indo Out Part III
TicketsFri., Mar. 31, 7:00pm
Salif Keita
TicketsSat., Apr. 1, 7:00pm
16th Annual Eric Clapton Birthday Show: Godfrey Townsend & Friends
TicketsSat., Apr. 1, 7:30pm
Dorthaan's Place Jazz Brunch: Bucky Pizzarelli, Ed Laub Duo
TicketsSun., Apr. 2, 11:00am
Sponsor Content