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The master limited partnership is a young, dynamic asset class directly linked to strengthening U.S. economic growth and the country's historic energy boom. A partnership structure, the MLP is used mainly by energy companies that transport, gather, process, distribute and produce natural gas, crude oil and natural gas liquids. Many MLPs are in the "midstream section" of the energy chain, meaning that they move natural resources between "upstream" exploration and production activities and "downstream" operations, like refining, processing and distribution to end-user markets.
Over the past few years MLPs, which have a growing market capitalization of nearly $400 billion, have provided outstanding returns that have far exceeded those of other yield-producing investments. With their high yields—5-8% on average—MLPs are ideal investments for generating income, experts say.
In 2012, MLPs chalked up total returns of close to 5%. Through the first half of the year, the partnerships have soared. In the first quarter, for instance, the benchmark Alerian MLP Index (AMZ), composed of the 50 largest MLPs, was up about 20%. The outlook for the entire year is just as positive. What's more, over the long term, analysts forecast annualized double-digit returns.
"MLPs certainly look very compelling as they relate to other alternatives in today's market. They offer 10%- 12% total returns," says Darren Horowitz, managing director and energy analyst, Raymond James Financial in Houston, in an interview.
The fortunes of MLPs are closely tied to the U.S. renaissance in oil and natural gas production, which has been made possible by technological innovation that uses drilling techniques—including hydraulic fracturing—to obtain natural resources heretofore inaccessible or difficult to access. Plus, in today's yield-parched environment, MLPs are a highly attractive way for investors to obtain a stable source of income. They can buy individual MLPs or invest in the asset class via mutual funds or exchange-traded products, such as ETFs and ETNs.
"Investors are clamoring for MLPs and are piling into the funds. They're very hungry for them," says Abby Woodham, a fund analyst with Morningstar in Chicago, in an interview. "I've seen billions upon billions of flow into ETFs over the past couple of months."
Global X Funds recently launched the Global X Junior MLP ETF, for instance. It is comprised mostly of mid-cap and smaller-cap energy MLPs, including BreitBurn Energy Partners, Crosstex Energy, Exterran Partners and Holly Energy Partners.
Many partnerships that use the MLP structure are pipeline companies that transport oil and gas from the source to locations of demand and generate income from this "toll-road model." Because the United States has not invested heavily to build or enhance this infrastructure since the early 1980s, the need for new pipelines and associated equipment is immense.
The ramifications of the significant build-out we're seeing "are great," says Horowitz. "It's creating a lot of jobs, a lot of out-of-state and local taxable income and, most importantly, it's giving us a significant push that allows the U.S. to be further down the path of becoming more energy independent."
A study released in 2011 by the Interstate Natural Gas Association of America showed that $240 billion will be invested in North America's gas infrastructure over the next 25 years, says Kenny Feng, CEO and president of Dallas-based Alerian.
MLP Trends
Part of the evolution of the MLP space is tied to the broadening of the types of companies qualifying for the MLP structure, which the Internal Revenue Service is guiding via Private Letter Rulings. To meet the income threshold for an MLP, at last 90% of gross income must come from activities associated with natural resources, including oil, natural gas, coal, minerals, certain renewable fuels and industrial-source carbon dioxide.
Now, in addition to the midstream part of the energy value chain—mostly pipeline MLPs—there are more upstream and downstream companies going public as non-traditional or unconventional master limited partnerships. These include three nitrogen fertilizer companies, like CVR Partners, two refineries and one chemical company. There's also SunCoke Energy Partners, an MLP that makes metallurgical coke, sponsored by SunCoke Energy.
Because their businesses are seasonal, some of the new MLPs pay quarterly variable-rate distributions, as opposed to the predictable quarterly distributions of traditional MLPs. In the last two years, six companies went public as variable distribution payers, bringing the current total to eight, according to Feng.
"Variable payers are riskier and have more volatility, but their yields are higher," notes Greg Reid, a managing director of Salient Partners in Houston, as well as CEO and president of Salient's MLP business, in an interview.
Most variable-rate MLPs—65% to 70%—are institutionally owned, Feng says. These investors aren't seeking the stable income that traditional MLPs afford; they simply believe in a fundamental story or are looking for a secular trend in the asset class. For example, they may believe in the use of nitrogen fertilizer for farmland.
Indeed, one of the biggest new trends in the MLPs arena is the increase in institutional investors buying the partnerships. "MLPs are becoming more popular with institutional investors, because it's an asset class that has had an amazing track record," says Andy Pusateri, a senior utilities analyst with St. Louis-based Edward Jones, in an interview.
"To some degree, institutional investors are just waking up and learning about MLPs," Reid explains. "More consulting firms are recommending MLPs to their clients. Once the consultants get behind these long-term recommendations, you can see really attractive allocations coming from some of the large pension plans."
To be sure, pension plans are increasingly investing in MLPs. "That makes it easier to raise capital, and the shares are more liquid," notes Mary Lyman, executive director of the National Association of Publicly Traded Partnerships, in Arlington, Va., in an interview.
Strong Investor Appeal
As for the retail landscape, where the bulk of MLP investors are, these partnerships are extremely well suited for many portfolios. The MLP is a long-term investment that can be depended upon not only for stable income, but also for growing distributions and tax deferral: Taxes are paid only when the units are sold.
Over the past 10 years, annualized MLP distribution growth has been nearly 7%, which has been the case for the first quarter of this year, as well. "MLPs offer a way to get a lot of current income and then defer paying taxes on them until you sell the shares," says Pusateri. "And they're a great way to transfer wealth, because under current tax law, you get the step-up of cost basis upon death. So if you hold them and pass them on to an heir, you never have to pay tax on the lower cost basis."
MLPs are indeed appealing for a buy-and-hold investing strategy. "There are three pillars of attractiveness," Reid notes. "They are yield, growth of distributions and inflation protection. With MLPs, you own real assets: pipelines, storage facilities—not a paper asset. And some of the contracts for MLPs are indexed to inflation, so you have a nice inflation component to grow the investment. It's really a unique asset for many people."
Historically, distribution growth has outpaced increases in the Consumer Price Index, writes Ashley Lannquist, a senior analyst of investment research at New York-based Segal Rogerscasey, in a recent report. "The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission grants many tariff-based MLPs the ability to annually increase their pipeline fees according to the Producer Price Index. This [escalator] allows MLPs to pass inflationary costs on to their customers and to potentially increase cash flow to investors," she notes.
Last year, because of fourth-quarter uncertainty about the fiscal cliff and unfounded fears that MLP tax advantages would diminish, the space underperformed the S&P 500 for the first time in more than a decade. But as soon as January 1 arrived, MLPs quickly rebounded.
"The MLPs led off this year with a bang, and the prospects continue to look very strong given demand for their services," says John Dowd, research analyst and portfolio manager with Fidelity Investments of Boston, in an interview. "The tailwinds are the growth in U.S. oil and natural gas production, which will remain robust for several years."
An MLP's performance—distributions—pivots on the company's growth, both organic and stemming from acquisitions. This year, M&A activity continues to be strong. "Distributions for the group are moving higher, because these companies are investing aggressively to grow the pipeline infrastructure. With that, they'll be able to growth cash flow," Dowd says.
When compared to other yield-producing investments, MLPs are superior, experts point out. For example, "When you benchmark the type of return you get with the REIT subgroup, bonds or the utility sub-group, MLPs stack up very favorably," Horowitz notes.
Bonds, with about a 6% yield, do not offer growth, experts add. REITs offer only about a 3.5% yield. MLPs, with dependable growth in price and distributions, also surpass utlities, they stress. "MLPs generally have a yield that's higher than that of utilities. They are growing their distributions at a faster rate on average than the utilities, and their tax advantages are more attractive," Dowd says.
It is MLPs' total-return profile on a risk-adjusted basis that has drawn so much institutional attention. The increase in institutional investing is giving MLPs more liquidity, which is beneficial. Recent Morgan Stanley research states that 39% of MLP investors are institutional, according to Lannquist. In 2008, during the financial crisis, she says, that number was 33%; back in 2001, institutional investors represented just 14% of MLP investors.
"The institutional trend has created a strong tailwind for MLPs, and we expect it to continue to do so," Lannquist says. "Now, MLPs are no longer a retail-only asset class. Institutional money is sticky money and should make MLPs less volatile."
Historic 'Heydey'
The boom in oil and natural gas allowing these resources to be extracted from shale in the Marcellus, Bakken, Permian, Niobrara and other basins creates a major need for infrastructure to move the hydrocarbons. "The shift to unconventional drilling created something of a heyday for midstream companies and a tremendous opportunity to invest in new projects. This infrastructure spending is the primary driver for the rapid growth among MLPs and their cash flow," says Jason Stevens, director of energy research and an analyst with Morningstar in Columbus, Ohio, in an interview.
"They can't build the pipelines fast enough," adds Lannquist. "As a short-term solution, they're transporting the gas and oil by rail."
MLPs' investments in infrastructure are huge. "The asset class will probably spend between $8 billion and $12 billion per year for the next few years on additional infrastructure," Horowitz says.
MLPs that are focused on storage facilities are benefiting from the boom, too. "Storage MLPs are well positioned, because they are a business with consistent cash flows," explains Pusateri. "Right now, especially with low natural gas prices and warm weather when we were expecting it to be colder, storage levels have moved higher—and that is positive for the MLPs."
With MLP growth and diversification, membership in the National Association of Publicly Traded Partnerships has been expanding at a steady pace. In 2012, there were 65 members representing 73 MLPs. Some of the MLPs that have been formed recently are in new areas, such as oil-field services, industrial-sand production (used for fracking) and offshore-drilling platforms.
"It's interesting to see how the industry has evolved," Feng remarks. "You're starting to see greater diversification up and down the supply chain in terms of the MLP structure and also in relation to investors. They're becoming more sophisticated."
The IRS continues to expand the scope of companies qualifying as MLPs, and legislators could do so as well. "As a result, more types of assets are being housed in the MLP structure," shares Feng. In fact, there's now a backlog of MLP initial public offerings that numbers in the double digits.
When it comes to non-traditional MLPs, yield may not always be the chief reason to invest. "One research analyst calls this 'The Diamond Age of Refining'," notes the head of Alerian. "You might believe that a particular refining asset is well positioned and will continue to generate great cash flow year after year, so you're looking for a good company for a long-term trend."
Non-traditional MLPs, such as those in the refining space, have a fair degree of commodity sensitivity, but they're able "to pass through windfall flows to owners when opportune," says Stevens.
Portfolio Play
In addition, MLPs are still an excellent way to diversify a portfolio. "They now have a higher correlation to the broader market than in the past," partly because of the increase in institutional investing, Feng explains. "But because of the underlying fundamentals, cash flow and the fact that MLPs are continuing to grow, we believe they're still a great addition to a diversified portfolio."
Some MLPs that analysts consider poised for growth are Energy Transfer Partners, Enterprise Products Partners, Magellan Midstream Partners and Plains All American Pipeline. "King Daddy of them all in my book is Enterprise Products Partners," Stevens says.
"This is an MLP that has integrated across every link of the midstream value chain and is in a position to offer services to producers, petrochemical end users—everyone involved in oil and gas. It's a company with many opportunities to add assets to its map that integrate with existing assets and increase the value of the whole network," the Morningstar analyst explains. "What Enterprise is doing with natural gas liquids will continue to produce strong cash flow growth in coming years."
Energy Transfer Partners is another winner. "It has diversified its business mix away from natural gas and now is also involved in natural gas liquids," explains Stevens. "It bought the refiner Sunoco last year. The company has worked hard in terms of both M&A activity and organic growth to adjust its asset portfolio to the current market."
There's also Magellan. "We like how it's linked up. Its pipelines run up and down the middle of the country, it brings crude oil from the Gulf to Cushing, Okla., and to the Gulf from the Permian, and it connects with literally every refinery in the mid-continent," he says. "That kind of connectivity is irreplaceable, and it really gives them a very strong position. I expect them to continue to invest money at narrow spreads above their cost of capital in attractive projects and to raise distributions."
Horowitz sees a compelling total-return potential in Enterprise Products Partners over the next few years. "It's one of the largest MLPs in terms of geographic footprint and is certainly one of the most vertically integrated in that it touches almost every different aspect of the midstream value chain. When you put those two attributes together, along with having one of the most flexible and transparent balance sheets and one of the best management teams, we see a lot of opportunity for value creation," he says.
"Enterprise will spend roughly $7.5 billion in organic growth capital expenditure and place those projects into service from 2013 till 2015," explains Horowitz. "The majority of them are fee based, and that paves the way for roughly 6% compound annual growth in cash distributions from 2013 out to 2016. Enterprise has a track record of doing very well. This is a partnership we think should be able to generate a 10%-11%, or possibly even a 12% return, year in and year out."
Another MLP that Horowitz singles out is Plains All American Pipeline. "It is slightly smaller in market cap but nonetheless has a tremendous amount of growth opportunity in front of it," he says. "The majority of its business is focused around crude oil, transportation, storage and also supplying logistics for marketing crude oil. This is a partnership that has assets that are very well connected to some of the most unconventional, prolific crude oil-producing plays within North America.
"It also has excellent vertical integration, one of the best management teams in the business, a very flexible balance sheet and a large degree of retained cash flow to help fund a lot of that organic growth," Horowitz adds. "It's a partnership that, from a visible perspective, has a very transparent opportunity set of projects. This partnership should be able to generate a total return in the low-to-mid teens for the next several years and do so with less associated risk."
Energy Boom
A key part of the MLP story is its major role in America's march to become energy independent. "As we move toward energy independence, a big piece of that is going to be developing the infrastructure to transport and store the natural resources," shares Alex Ashby, a research analyst with New York-based Global X Funds, in an interview.
"Investing in MLPs is a low-risk way to invest in the U.S. energy renaissance that's going on," notes Reid. "It's low risk, because MLPs typically own hard assets like pipelines and storage facilities."
MLPs should also benefit from the expected exportation of natural gas liquids, crude oil and liquefied petroleum; a number of MPLs have applied for permits to export. "There's a push to export liquefied natural gas," Stevens notes. "One company has a permit to export to any and all buyers. There are 20-plus applications sitting at the Department of Energy pending review. We think they'll [issue] a few permits and then wait to see the impact on prices."
'Growth Opportunity'
Exporting is viewed as a huge growth opportunity. One reason is that the construction and operation of export terminals is an MLP-qualifying activity. "It will stimulate more domestic production," says Ethan Bellamy, a managing director and MLP analyst with Robert W. Baird & Co., in Denver, in an interview.
MLPs are already moving further along toward oil and natural gas exportation. "Enterprise has recently expanded its Houston crude oil storage facility for future exporting," explains Feng. "Our gut feeling is that exporting will be approved, with the appropriate degree of regulation. MLPs will be a very important part of this revolution."
Also, petrochemical companies are talking about building brand-new facilities, which could affect MLPs. "Over the next several years, you'll see demand-side infrastructure, like ethylene plants, constructed and the likes of Dow and DuPont chemical companies focus their growth plans and capital on maximizing this domestic resource potential," Horowitz says.
"This is a structural shift as it relates to the cost curve for ethylene products, because it has firmly moved the U.S. into the driver's seat for having some of the most abundant supply and the lowest cost feedstock for ethylene and, ultimately, polyethylene (used to make plastics and consumer durables) production. This is going to be a game-changer for the global petrochemical industry and will require more infrastructure build-out. So it's not just the boom in NGL supply growth; it's also the boom in U.S. crude oil production."
Environmental pressure and lower prices for natural gas (which is trading at less than half of its 2008 level of $8.90 per million British thermal units) have given coal MLPs, in general, a bumpy ride of late. But performance varies widely among companies, and some of the partnerships have performed significantly better than others.
There are four coal MLPs, according to the NAPTP—including Alliance Resource Partners, which analysts particularly like because of its business model, balance sheet and strong fundamentals. A positive trend for coal-related MLPs is that some are diversifying, making them less dependent on one resource for most of their revenue. For instance, Natural Resource Partners has acquired oil and gas reserves, as well as crushed stone, sand and gravel properties.
"Burning coal for power generation looks to be in the money for a large number of generators at $4 gas. So we will likely see a rebound in coal consumption this year, and that should be supportive of cash flows for the MLPs," Stevens says.
China and India are expected to use the majority of the world's coal for the next 20 years. Though China is attempting to develop its own natural gas production, the country is "still growing coal demand fairly aggressively," according to Dowd. "It's going to be at least five years before natural gas growth out of China is a relevant issue. The size of the U.S. natural gas industry and our ability to frack just swamps that of China. We have advantages in shale gas production other countries don't have. Also, we don't know how productive the China shale resources are going to be. It's still an exploration effort there."
Though interest rates, which have been near zero for some time, are anticipated to begin rising, this may not adversely affect many MLPs in the capital-intensive asset class. "Even in a rising interest rate environment, a lot of MLPs are retaining more cash flow beyond what they distribute," Horowitz says. "That's very important because to a certain degree, they can use a lot of it to help self-fund some of their organic growth projects over the next several years and to minimize their capital markets exposure. That way, they aren't at the mercy of the market and paying a higher interest rate on incremental debt."
Optimistic Outlook
The 2013 outlook is for a strong year, with MLP returns in the high teens or rising even to 20%, experts say. Plus, distributions should grow 5% -7%, which in turn, represents 5%-7% price growth.
The forecast is just as optimistic through 2015, largely because of "very visible growth that you can see, the need for infrastructure and the increased demand from institutional investors," Lannquist says. "Analysts can see over multiple-year periods the growth that's going to occur, such as in pipeline construction. There's a big backlog of capital expenditure. Analysts have been told by management that these projects are underway and that there should be a lot of growth."
Investing in MLPs means investing in one of the most dynamic areas of today's market. "There are billions in assets out there that aren't in MLPs but that can migrate into the space over time," Bellamy says. "We're in the middle innings in the MLP space in terms of new areas of both growth and potential M&A."
What's more, "MLPs are a long-term investment in the build-out of our domestic energy infrastructure," Feng notes. "It will drive continued stability and growth in cash flow this year and onward."
Many analysts are what can only be described as passionate about MLPs. "I'm a huge believer that without the MLP structure, we would not have had the success we've had in pushing back on crude oil imports and massively lowering the cost of natural gas," Bellamy says.
"The MLP is a very efficient funding mechanism and allows billions of dollars of capital infusion into domestic infrastructure, all of which ultimately results in lower prices to consumers," the analyst concludes. That's a strong public good and a cornerstone—the main goal—of the original legislation for the MLP. And you can't argue—it's been wildly successful."


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2011 Audi TTS Replacement Air Filters at Tuners Depot
K&N® Drop in Air Filter Replacement - 09-12 Audi TTS 2.0L 4cyl
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Angelina Jolie took three out of six kids out the other day. They were Halloween shopping. Having spent several months in Europe, Brange is back in the US as Brad Pitt's Killing Them Softly is scheduled to premiere on November 30, pushed back to that date by Harvey Weinstein who openly acknowledged at the time that he wanted to ensure the film, having received a strong critical response at Cannes, would be better positioned for awards season. Also...maybe for the election? Wasn't Brad in Lincoln Park in Chicago following President Obama's win in 2008?
Check out the steezy Shiloh with her shades tucked into her shirt. She doesn't look like she's into being papped. Or maybe it was because while she was taken out with ma and her younger siblings, the older kids, the ones she idolises, had other options. Maybe the Chosen One doesn't enjoy being trotted out for photo opportunities unless her brothers are around, especially not when they want her to make up for dad's sh-tty fragrance commercials.


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Winooski Urban Renewal Progress 1
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- This photograph is the first from a four part series documenting Winooski's urban renewal. On a snowy day, looking on from across E. Allen St., two buildings sit adjacent to the sidewalk, behind three parked cars. On the left is a lightly colored one-story building with five windows and a glass door with two steps leading up to it. On the center of the building, atop the flat roof letters read, "DINER." Next to them is a white sign with a Coca-Cola emblem and "DINER" written again above it. At the right of the door, letters spell out, "BILL'S." Next to Bill's Diner sits a three-story brick building with a flat roof. Above the ground level, ten windows look out onto the street. Below them on the first floor are four large windows and three doors leading inside. Above the first doorway, the word "NEWSTAND" is visible on a white sign with two Coca-Cola logos. On the other side of the building, white letters printed on one of the windows read, "RICHARD'S BARBER SHOP." In the right of the frame, a three-story brick building labeled as "HANSON'S" is partially visible. Several vehicles are visible. Leafless deciduous trees can be seen behind the buildings.
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Dr. Hospital: "Yes. I'm sending her to rehab today."
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Dr. Grumpy: "She had a fall."
Dr. Hospital: "Okay. Anyway, I'm going to send her to rehab."
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Dr. Hospital: "No, but the nurse told me she looks fine, and slept well last night."
Dr. Grumpy: "Do me a favor, can you hold her until I can come over and check her out myself?"
Dr. Hospital: "Okay."


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The look and quality of vinyl flooring has evolved and there are now some great products that offer excellent alternatives to traditional wood and stone flooring, at a fraction of the cost.
What is luxury vinyl flooring?
Luxury vinyl flooring, as the name suggests, is a high end vinyl floor covering that aims to mimic natural floor types like wood and stone using realistic textures and images. It is more expensive than traditional vinyl, but a lot less expensive than using hardwood or stone. It also offers several other benefits over its natural alternatives.
Luxury vinyl flooring comprises of four layers; a top aluminium oxide-based layer to protect from scratches and scuffs, then a clear layer that offers protection against more extensive damage such as rips. Then there is the layer which features the design – a realistic image of wood or stone, and finally the thickest layer underneath which forms the bulk of the floor and gives it its structure.
What are the benefits?
Aside from the obvious cost benefits, luxury vinyl flooring also has a number of other advantages:
- Where stone flooring can be cold and hard underfoot, vinyl is softer and also warmer as it retains heat.
- Hardwood floors can be damaged by spillages and pets – vinyl alternatives are non-absorbent to liquids and resistant to scuffs and scratches, so they're very pet and child friendly.
- This kind of flooring is manufactured to be very resilient and durable, so can comfortably withstand high traffic spaces like hallways and corridors.
- It's moisture resistant so it can be used in all areas, including kitchens and bathrooms where it is an ideal choice as it won't be damaged by water and spillages.
- Both stone and wood can bounce sound around, but vinyl has sound absorbing properties, reducing noise issues.
- A big advantage is that luxury vinyl is very easy to maintain and clean, it just needs sweeping and the occasional mop or wipe with a mild soap or detergent.
- Vinyl flooring is generally made from recycled materials using environmentally conscious processes, making it a very eco-friendly product.
So if you're after the look of wood or stone, but you're under budget constraints or need the practicality offered by vinyl, then luxury vinyl flooring is a great option. With a huge range of designs to choose from in high quality finishes, you won't struggle to find one that fits in with your scheme.


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May 27, 2012
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Beyond the unfathomable evil perpetrated on April 15 in Boston—human losses that can never be measured—come the more mundane, quantifiable aspects of the mayhem of which the Tsarnaev brothers are suspected.
News reports that the generosity of a taxpayer-financed state welfare program was supporting at least one of the brothers for years is just one facet of the financial picture, but there is another far more diffuse angle that affects Americans nationwide: that is the financial risk that recurring acts of terror pose to the lives, property and businesses of ordinary Americans.
The businesses near the site of the Boston Marathon terror attack were mostly small shops and restaurants that lack terrorism insurance, a new category of coverage stemming from the 9/11 attacks.
Prior to 9/11, terror-caused property damage would have been covered without specific customer costs. But the destruction in New York alone added up in the tens of billions of dollars, leading insurers to exclude the effects of terror from their coverage.
To avoid wider economic losses after 9/11, Congress stepped in with a law—the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act of 2002—that would limit insurance company losses in the event of an act of terrorism involving high losses.
Under the law, which has since been renewed and expires at the end of next year—foreign terror attacks costing under $100 million are paid entirely by insurance companies; a financial hit over that threshold but under $27.5 billion means the government pays and is reimbursed over time by insurance companies, whereas a terror attack involving aggregate losses of $27.5 billion the Secretary of the Treasury has discretion to seek or wave recovery of its payment for losses.
There are other details, including deductibles and cost-sharing, but the basic idea is that the government—meaning the taxpayers—are bearing the financial risk of massive terrorism.
Advocates of TRIA, which include insurance executives such as Ace Ltd.'s Evan Greenberg, say government involvement in a reinsurance role is necessary or else insurers would not take the risk and businesses could not obtain terror insurance.
Indeed, terror coverage was largely unavailable for the year following 9/11 until passage of TRIA, according to a Congressional Research Service study of the terror insurance market published in February.
That report cites Marsh, a large insurance broker, reporting that 65% of its clients in 2011, up from just 27% in 2003, have adopted terrorism coverage, and insurance broker Aon reports that cost of the coverage has consequently come down to 3% or 4% of premiums, down from a high of greater than 7%.
Other voices, such as the Consumer Federation of America, have argued that insurance companies, not taxpayers, should be on the hook for terror risk.
A CFA spokesman is quoted by Insurance Journal in February, saying, "The fact that insurers do not take financial risk for either flood or terrorism insurance is a huge policy error. Taxpayers are required to pick up huge risks that private insurers are more than capable of identifying and backing."
Wharton School of Business professor Erwann Michel-Kerjan gave what was perhaps a middle position, and a prescient one seven months before the terror attack in Boston.
In testimony before Congress given last year on the 11th anniversary of 9/11, the Wharton insurance expert stated:
"Can the market operate in the absence of a federal backstop…? Yes, but there is likely to be a rather thin market…Could this be sustainable? If there is no successful terrorist act on U.S. soil in the next 10 or 20 years, then yes. But when the next attack occurs, experience shows that Congress will be called to the rescue by businesses that went uninsured…"
Indeed, the shops, bars and other mainly retail businesses in Boston's fashionable Back Bay, site of the terror attack, were mostly uninsured, according to a recent Wall Street Journal report. They're hoping the government does not officially declare the events of April 15 an act of terror, which could enable insurance companies to withhold payment for damage under business owners' general property and casualty coverage.
Check out these related stories on AdvisorOne:


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With the V6 Thread, we're trying a slight formatting change. We used to list every possible Steam deal in the OP, but they change too frequently for anyone to keep up with (even in the Wiki format). So now, we'll leave regular minor sales out of the OP. This post will keep track of major sales (Winter sale, etc.), Steam deals available through other sellers (like Amazon), Preorder deals, and Group Buys.
I would still greatly appreciate help from you folks at home in keeping this smaller-scale OP up-to-date. This is a Wiki post so anyone can contribute. Wiki instructions:
Steam Sales - Updated 1/22
CAG Threads Featuring Steam Games on Sale Elsewhere - Updated 1/9
Preorder Deals - Updated 1/10
- Don't Starve
$14.99- $11.99 - Preorder includes second copy free!
- Tomb Raider
$49.99- $44.99
- BIT.TRIP Presents... Runner2: Future Legend of Rhythm Alien
$14.99- $13.49
- The Cave $14.99
Free Stuff - List needs updating with F2P games!
Steam around CAG
If you are interested in joining the Steam CAG Community or participating in a trade or group buy with fellow Cheap Ass Gamers, please do so in the dedicated threads and not in the deal discussion thread. In the dedicated threads you will find CAGers with the same specialized interest who will be much quicker (and happier) to respond than in the Deals thread.
- Enhanced Steam! Created by CAG's own jshackles, the Enhanced Steam Plug-in for Chrome highlights owned games, calculates savings, clearly displays game DRM, lowest game price, and more.
- Steam Group Buy and Gift Requests Thread! (CAG Steam group deleted by Steam administration)
- Join the CAG Steam Community!
- The Steam Discussion Thread!
Visit www.steamgamesales.com to check previous sale prices on Steam games. We do keep track of some older sales here though:
- Steam Give & Get Sale: 11/24-11/29/2010
- Steam Treasure Hunt Sale: 12/06-12/19/2010
- Steam Holiday Sale 2010: 12/20/2010-1/02/2011
Indie Bundles thread on Steam forums (link)
Past CAG Steam Deal Threads
- V1 thread (Nov 2010-July 2011)
- V2 thread (July 2011 - Feb 2012)
- V3 thread (Feb-July 2012)
- V4 thread (July-August 2012)
- V5 thread (August-December 2012)
Edited by eastx, 26 February 2013 - 04:13 AM.


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Friday, October 8, 2010
If You Can Make It Here…Well, You Know the Rest
I was interviewed by the show's main judges, Bob Tuschman and Susie Fogelson, both of whom could not have been nicer, or more supportive for what I'm doing. Not only wasn't I nervous, but for some strange reason it felt like I was talking to dear old friends. I was completely at ease, and enjoyed every moment of what many would describe as an unsuccessful meeting.
I passionately pitched the idea for a foodwishes-style show (where the food is the star, and the chef not so much), after which they thoughtfully articulated why such a show isn't commercially viable. Deep down I knew that would be their reaction, but it was still fun hearing it from these two major star makers. I will think carefully about what they had to say, and maybe give getting on the show a real shot, or I'll simply go back to being one of the most watched and influential (not to mention happiest) chefs on YouTube.
After the meeting I was gifted a sweet swag bag, and given a tour of the operation. I had decided not to show up with a camera hanging from my neck, so I just snapped a few quick pictures with the iPhone, which you can see here (including a shot of Kitchen Stadium below).
As I left the Chelsea Market, I felt strangely contented, like I had truly accomplished something. I saw in their eyes, and heard in their voices, that they understood just how much I love food, and teaching people to cook.
So, thank you Food Network. Thank you for the opportunity, for the trip to New York, and for reminding me that while there are a million ways to make it, you only need to choose one. You haven't seen, or rather heard, the last of me.
54 comments:
please stick to your formula! Many great artists weren't recognized in the first place, because their ideas were somewhat game-changing. Your way of presenting food, technique, and humor is so unique, that it schould be very very viable, in terms of commercial success. Your day will come, Chef John! Thank You very much for your inspiring work, and Greetings from Germany (just got to get me another canned cheeseburger ;-) )!
- October 8, 2010 at 3:04 AM
Congrats! Do you mind sharing why they don't think something like Food Wishes on TV would be commercially viable? I'm much more mesmerized by the videos on this site than anything I see on FoodTV. But then again, they're now an entertainment channel that's not so much so ab cooking... either way, your legions of fans love you and your videos Chef John!
- October 8, 2010 at 3:05 AM
John -
The Food Network is NOT about food at all. If it were, they'd have given you the pink slip. Thank you for not being a sellout.
- Kyle
- October 8, 2010 at 3:31 AM
I don't know John. I don't think it's so much that you are not right for FN, but that they are not right for you. They really aren't about the food... or teaching people to cook. They're about promoting their station, their brand, celebrity chefs, and educating people about food... not so much teaching them.
You're approach is hands off, but your charm still shows through in your voice, and your humor. I LOVE your videos, and I was a decent cook to begin with, now I'm a better cook thanks to you.
- October 8, 2010 at 3:46 AM
I'm and Australian living far away in Japan, so I'm probably not competent to discuss the "not commercially viable" [in the US] verdict - but man, I doubt it! What I do know is I enjoy your blog and videos as much and, often, more than anything else on the internet, despite spending a lot of time there for postgrad study and to indulge lots of other interests. I've learnt more about cooking from your site in a few months, in ways that have really changed my life for the better, than from the enormous pile of cookbooks that have filled my bookshelves to overflowing for many years. And, maybe what's more important, your humour and warmth make your site a place to recharge on the human and emotional level, too. Whatever comes next Chef John, thank you!!
- October 8, 2010 at 4:04 AM
- Unknown said...
If I can ask, why wouldn't a show like that be commercially viable? Your success on Youtube says that people are definetly interested in it.
- October 8, 2010 at 5:51 AM
Chef John, You are so gracious! And in that spirit, I must comment that I spend more time with you on Foodwishes than I do watching Food Network.
You helped my daughter prepare her first Thanksgiving in 2009...I had to work. Her "gourmet aunt" told her it was "the best turkey I've ever tasted"!
I'm making those cherry pepper appetizers for holiday gatherings...peace
- October 8, 2010 at 7:09 AM
- Ed Charbeneau said...
So they weren't too accepting of your pitch, but that's ok. I have a totally new idea; I'll be the man in front of the camera and you are my "stunt hands". Of course they will also have to dub your voice over mine like a godzila movie, but that will add more depth to the show....
On second thought I bet your pitch was better.
Seriously, it sounds like you enjoyed the experience and walked away with your head held high. I'll speak for everyone and say we've learned a lot from your videos. I'm sure it won't be much longer before you are on to bigger things. Until then, we'll continue to enjoy your site.
Thank you.
- October 8, 2010 at 7:36 AM
- Marcus said...
Your a great Chef John! Please check out my cooking skills on my cooking blog, Kindest Regards, Marcus.
- October 8, 2010 at 8:00 AM
- Tamar@StarvingofftheLand said...
I say bravo! (As in the shout of appreciation, not the competing network.)
The Food Network is, and has to be, in the business of entertaining. And, while I find you vastly entertaining, I still recognize that your fundamental purpose is to teach cooking. Your popularity is a testament to how well you do that, and I, for one, am damned pleased to see you stick to your mission. If the FN sees room for that in its line-up, all the better, but if the don't, that's just mission mis-match.
As someone who's in it solely for fame and fortune (thus far, elusive), I'm very glad to know that, for some people, it's really all about the food.
You go, John.
- October 8, 2010 at 8:35 AM
- milkshake said...
Maybe "they thoughtfully articulated why such a show isn't commercially viable" and maybe they are completely wrong.
Your personality and voice is is shining through in these videos, and you figured out how make cooking recipes eminently watchable and funny without being gimmicky and without talking straight into camera.
Why don't you make a pilot episode video for FN the way you like to do it - which is probably the best way you do it - and ask them to show it to the test audience they use for rating shows. Also, this is supposed to be a show for the common audience, not for FN execs. Maybe you can first show your FN pilot to your neighbors, friends and family before you send it over to FN - you can gauge its effect best by the reaction of normal people that care for you - and their response could give you the necessary strenght for negotiating with FN.
- October 8, 2010 at 9:04 AM
Proud of you, Chef John!
I think you're much better suited for a show on the new Cooking Channel than the old Food Network. FN has become less and less about cooking and more about bubbly personalities and competitions anyway. While your personality is certainly better than just about anyone out there, you're definitely worth more to passionate, food-loving Americans than someone sandwiched between Sandra Lee and Rachel Ray in the lineup.
- October 8, 2010 at 9:39 AM
Keep up the good work John, my opinion is FN made a big mistake.
A fan forever.
- October 8, 2010 at 9:46 AM
- Amy Lynn said...
Glad that you had a good time in NYC, Chef John. I would totally watch your show on FN.
I hope you do apply for FNS. You would be fantastic.
- October 8, 2010 at 10:01 AM
I watch more FoodTV than any other channel, but the thing is, the time I spend enjoying your blog is time I would be tuning in to watch you if you were on FoodTV! Eventually you will get it, if you want it, because they need you. You have everything a food star needs: warmth, charm, humor, unpredicatability, and something else--staying power--you wear well!!
- October 8, 2010 at 10:23 AM
- Will said...
The Food Network is all about reality TV and competitions, Ace of Cakes, Chopped, The next food network statr etc etc.. That is why I personally do not like it. The new cooking channel is about actual cooking. It is much better suited for you.
- October 8, 2010 at 10:41 AM
- Kathy the happy grandma said...
On the Next Food Network Star, I noticed the Food Network seems more interested in the telling of one's story rather than the food itself...now every show I watch entails some childhood story about the recipe and It just plain galls me. I really can't stand the most popular FN chefs anymore. I love this sight and I love your videos and personality. Never change!
- October 8, 2010 at 10:48 AM
Food network Channel is boring, I stopped watching it after I found your Youtube channel.
I love your recipe presentations, Chef John. Sometimes I watch your videos even if I don't have to cook, just for fun. Love your sense of humor.
You are truly the best, Chef John! Just, please, continue doing what are you doing.
- October 8, 2010 at 11:18 AM
- Eric said...
Your style on Food Wishes is unique. Obviously it has caught on and people like the format. Each video is short and to the point. The editing is well done and keeps the content moving and on subject.
I hope you are not down in the dumps that they don't get it. You are what's happening on the food blogs. You are the future. Stay true to your self. You da man Chef John!
- October 8, 2010 at 11:50 AM
- sequimteeth said...
For the lowly consumer like me, I prefer the blog to food TV anytime. More time is spent on your blog than on FTV. But you have to make a living and I am guessing free blogging doesn't contribute too much to the 401K. That's the rub isn't it - how to take your talent and genuine interest and make it sustainable. Not unlike the "buy local" food initiatives - save the local farmer. I should send you a check every time I use one of your recipes successfully! :-)
- October 8, 2010 at 12:15 PM
I haven't watched Food Network for years, but i tune in to your blog almost daily. Don't worry chef, their outlook reflects the reasons their network is rapidly becoming unwatchable... American attitudes toward eating are changing in a big way, and you're exactly what the nation that forgot how to cook needs. Keep giving the consumer what they tell you they want (instead of what some detached ny exec with a foundering enterprise "knows" the consumer wants) and you will be rewarded... The big diamonds never stay rough for too long; brilliance attracts attention.
- October 8, 2010 at 1:18 PM
Chef John,
I don't know how they could say your show would not be commercially viable...can you share with us the actual reasons? Because all they would have to do is come to your blog and see how viable you are!! I do watch FN and I LOVE watching your videos and I bet you could outshine any of those chef stars IMO!
And I don't understand, are they asking you to submit another reel to compete in the Next FN star show? But you just won the FN youtube challenge didn't you? (again viable!) Well, if nothing happens out of this, it's their loss. I'm sure there's something else for you! I wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors!! We're all rooting for you! :)
- October 8, 2010 at 1:38 PM
Have you watched the Food Network lately? I thought the whole idea of this network is to show you how to make great food at home. Instead, it's full of self indulgent chef's not really cooking, but stroking their ego.
You go Chef John! The best thing I love about your videos? You show us that during the cooking process, you don't need to panic if it looks a certain way or you give great tips to turn a disater into a success.
If your idea is not commercially viable, I guess they need to make room for Iron Chef Kids where they go head to head making P&J sandwiches from mystery ingredients. Yawnnnn!
Hey, there is always the Oprah Network you can pitch to. Who needs FoodTV.
- October 8, 2010 at 2:37 PM
- Chef John said...
Thanks to everyone for the kind words of encouragement and support!!! First of all, I'm not upset in the least! No reason to be. As I told them, I already have a great job.
What they mean by non-commercially viable is that to have a show you need large companies to sponsor/advertise. For that to happen a show has to have a larger than life personality around which the show is built. They need a face and a name to center everything on. My format doesn't really allow for that. Bob made a great point when he said that people that want what I provide can already watch that show...on Food Wishes and Youtube.
- October 8, 2010 at 3:13 PM
- Rita said...
what do they mean, "not viable"? all i know is - it would be the network's BIGGEST loss, if they didn't choose you.
kudos for not being a sell-out, either.
- October 8, 2010 at 3:19 PM
I'm from the UK John, offal man, remember me?
I really enjoy watching your videos because not only are they entertaining but they are educational. I often find myself in conversation/debate with people for some reason or another when it comes to food and you are never far from my mind when I am offering examples of excellence.
Anyway I thought you might like another chef/foody I watch and thought you might like the approach.
- October 8, 2010 at 4:52 PM
- Art by Darla Kay said...
I would MUCH rather listen to you than some of the hosts they have currently. Your videos are a joy and I've learned so much and tried new things.
Thanks for what you do!
- October 8, 2010 at 4:56 PM
- Andrew Bridges said...
Thanks for everything you do. Even if you don't ever get a show on Food Network, you will always have me as a loyal reader of your blog!
- October 8, 2010 at 5:40 PM
John, don't demean yourself by even considering going on TNFNS. Those contestants are losers whose shows I would never consider watching. You're a way better chef than any that have been on that show.
- October 8, 2010 at 7:05 PM
Gotta say... I don't actually watch food network but I do check foodwishes.com daily and refer back to it repeatedly. I love the food, love your personality and humour! CJ rocks! So corny I know, but you really have made my life better. Glad you had a great experience.
- October 8, 2010 at 7:24 PM
I'm sorry you didn't get a job offer from Food Network. However, I hope you realize how important you are! Your Food Wishes web site/youtube site is very unique, and it is one of my favorite places to visit. I HAVE LEARNED SO MUCH.
Food Network will blow a chance to improve their ratings, since people like learning how to cook, not where to eat/how something is manufactured.
Have you thought about going to PBS? They have America's Test Kitchen. They might listen to you.
- October 8, 2010 at 8:14 PM
Hi Chef John, Have to say I am glad you had a great trip and awesome time in NY with FN and all. I am also glad we still have you all to ourselves--all 50k youtube folks and countless foodwishes folks. As I am in the entertainment industry I am not surprised at how somewhat uncreative and shortsighted their assessment is of your pitch simply because in a tested demographics it has proven itself popular and a draw for viewers but not for 'products' beyond the good food and recipes. People that want to learn to cook do not watch FN reality TV anymore as there are few shows that really 'teach' anything you can take and do yourself, but instead they 'showboat' to big corporation and not the viewers. Julia Child, Yan Can Cook and others are dinosaurs that plowed the way to this beast that is nothing but based corporate upselling. In a way its short selling the FN viewers for not realy giving them anything but people to watch instead of lessons and skills; few on there do any of that anymore (AB is one of the few left--certainly he is not popular?). I dare say though that even with your style of filming--corporations could gain hugely with actually SEEING the product working rather then sit in the hands of a prop cook with dialog. Sad to see creativity to develop such ideas outside the box from a cookie cutter 'selling plan' to corporate america is dead at FN, but glad you are still happy and enthusiastic to provide your YT and FW viewers all that comes from your heart and soul and kitchen. When I want to see people 'speed cook' or throw ingredients around like passionless children the waste, then I will watch FN on occasion. But when I want to learn or find a new recipe or feel the passion for cooking, I will be here at Foodwishes. IMO they missed a great chance to get back to their roots and make their channel something more then just a reality TV show. I'm glad we still have the real soul and heart of cooking and creativity here with you. -cb
- October 8, 2010 at 11:05 PM
*crosses fingers*
hoping for the "go back to being one of the most watched and influential (not to mention happiest) chefs on YouTube" option.
In 2009, I spent way more time watching you than Food Network, and I watched a lot of Food Network. You're the best, and they don't want to admit it.
Soon enough you will have an audience that would have been as big as it would have gotten on TV; AND, you get to wholly control the content and not have to worry about execs breathing down your neck. Screw that noise. You got it made, and it's a win-win for everyone.
- October 8, 2010 at 11:17 PM
i like your style much more.
i do not watch food network any more because it is not food centered. but i will watch it again if you are in the show.
keep up the good work!
- October 9, 2010 at 2:35 AM
You need your OWN network.
I like to think big.
- October 9, 2010 at 3:57 AM
- October 9, 2010 at 11:33 AM
- Unknown said...
I wouldn't sweat it chef. The Food Network has really gone down hill in the last 10 years. Remember, these are the people who canceled Molto Mario. These philistines would have canceled Julia Child if they had the chance.
As for the whole food over personality issue, I swear that I've seen a quote from a Food Network exec saying the same thing. They aren't after good cooking anymore, they want talk shows, and, oh yeah, here's some food. It is a damn sad state of affairs when there are better food shows on Bravo and the Travel Channel than on the Food Network.
- October 9, 2010 at 12:25 PM
- milkshake said...
Chef, you should consider hiring an agency to get you started talking with execs from more networks. You know, FN is not the only one in the universe... Also, your FoodWishes format is perfect in a sense that using it for programming would not require a huge commitment from the channel - it it short and sweet and it could be included as add-on with other programming segments. And it would cost the channel near nothing to try the idea. I thing it would take off because the viewers response would take care of the rest.
I think that is what Jennifer Shiman did with her 30-second Bunnies Theatre (www.angryalien.com)and she got a long-term programming deal with Stars channel. Maybe you can ask her how she went about it. (Also, please watch her bunny parody of The Exorcist)
- October 9, 2010 at 12:34 PM
Just keep going at it. I think you have what it takes. The right voice, the right attitude. The recipes are great. Actually I am not sure what they didn't like. You better try again.
- October 9, 2010 at 1:08 PM
- Mardi Michels said...
Ah the old "not comercially viable" argument. Oh well. You have a legion of fans out there, I am sure you are destined for great things!
- October 9, 2010 at 2:50 PM
Not commercially viable? As a potential viewer, I couldn't disagree more. I hate all the personalities on FN. I would prefer that it was more about the food.
- October 10, 2010 at 1:07 AM
- Mike said...
I stopped watching Food network, and now watch food blogs exclusively, Food Wishes being the main one. Food network has shows that are 10% cooking, 90% drama/miscellaneous. The only way I would tune back into FN is if you got a show on it. Commercially viable, hah!
- October 10, 2010 at 3:45 AM
It seems we've been seeing more & more of the Food TV stars' "personalities" lately--from Sandra Lee to Claire Robinson to Giada (didn't she used to be an ironing board?). Hide your eyes, even sweet little Rachel Ray is having to show her personality. Then there's Aarti... If you're auditioning for FoodTV, better equip yourself with a set of extra large Jello molds...
- October 10, 2010 at 9:00 AM
Chef John, whither thou's videos goeth,so goeth I as well. be it youtube,your blog, or a major cable television station. just the opportunity to pitch a show as wonderful as yours has gotta be invigorating. I hope you have had an excellent time! You deserve it!!
- October 10, 2010 at 9:10 AM
Paul from NY here.
I never comment ...
I love your videos. As you know, plenty of people benefit from you. I feel you deserve national recognition, and the fun and bucks that come along with it. If it's meant to be (not that I am a believer in that) then it is meant to be. If not - you're great John. I'm not sure they deserve you...If television was government owned and operated, and I was some influential technocrat, you would be teaching the nation how to cook, and do it relatively healthy.
- October 10, 2010 at 10:39 PM
If by, "...it was still fun hearing it from these two major star makers," you meant, "security had to be called, and the jaws-of-life were needed to pry my hands off of their scrawny self-important necks," then, yes, I definitely understand.
Someone once commented to you a famous quote about Good Ideas: "If your ideas are any good, you'll have to ram them down people's throats." Good advice.
And I agree with you that you've already succeeded by no small degree, if for the mere fact that you continue to walk the walk.
Scott - Boston
- October 12, 2010 at 12:09 AM
- Chef John said...
Once again, THANKS EVERYONE!!!! You're all inspiring as always!!
Scott, thanks my friend... reading between the lines is only one of your many talents ;-)
- October 12, 2010 at 12:13 AM
Clearly what Food Network needs is more shows from all their failed stable of Next Food Network "Stars."
Big Daddy's House? The 3 dozen "I travel somewhere and eat stuff" shows? Just more crap to shuffle off to their sister network's dumping ground.
- October 12, 2010 at 4:36 PM
Food Network is why I come here, rather to my digital HDTV widescreen TV for my food interests. The only thing I have watched recently on Food TV was a scarce newly produced episode of good eats. For me, the decline of Food TV is responsible for my finding, enjoying, and continuing to enjoy Foodwishes. If Food Network was blind enough to turn you down, they are blind enough to continue their current brand of crapola!
- October 13, 2010 at 6:02 AM
Who needs the food network when we have perfectly good internets. It's better this way. TV is SO last century hahaha
I love your food, and you too!
- October 16, 2010 at 5:23 AM
- Artsygal said...
I used to love food network once upon a time. These days the only time I tune in is to watch AB's Good Eats. Why? Because he teaches technique. The others can shove it. Number of recipes I've cooked from Food Network in the last 3 years? NONE. Recipes from your blog? At least a dozen, and I only just recently discovered you. Shows like what I believe you would produce are what it would take to get me back to watching the FN. I stopped watching when I couldn't find a cooking show any more, it was all reality and contests and other fluff.
Keep up what you're doing - it fills a huge void that ironically Food Network itself created by taking off all their good cooking shows. And the great thing? I've yet to have anything I made from your blog turn out badly. I can't say the same for the recipes I used to try from FN. In fact, I just forwarded several of your recipes to a friend who is learning to cook for the first time because I know your videos will make it easy for her to follow along. Thanks for teaching us all how to become better cooks!
- October 22, 2010 at 3:54 PM
You're better than the FN cooks. Eventhough being a FN chef you have clout in the culinary world, but still you're a great chef. Keep up the good work and videos on FoodWishes and You Tube that make us a better home cook.
- August 27, 2011 at 1:13 AM
- PFSimAdmin said...
I haven't watched Food Network since Good Eats died. Nothing left on that network any more but crap. Their loss not to pick up Chef John, but he's better than that anyway.
You can tell by what IS on Food Network that quality isn't something they value. I seriously don't know who does watch all that drivel any more.
Hopefully not to the Cooking Channel, we can't get that here!!
- June 25, 2013 at 11:58 AM
- JAGAJAK said...
I have two kids, 13 and 15...when I want to show them anything about cooking, I go to your site, not FN. When I have friends both at work and play that I want to talk about food with, I tell them about your site, not FN. You are simply the best and your format rocks. Funny, educational, genuine and accurate. Just wanted to drop a note saying THANKS for what you do! FN's loss for sure but as others have commented, they are a money machine..it's not about the food with them..its about entertainment. Keep the faith and keep teaching. You do it right!
- December 29, 2013 at 1:12 PM


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A reproduction of a mid-1940s eastern European library bookcase, ours is heir apparent to the imperfect beauty of an antique. Crafted from iron and hardwood, it displays books and other collectibles from four open sides. Distressed to replicate its forebear with the patina of age, our shelving's front handles and lower bar step are functional vestiges of its earlier employment, equipping it for moves and reaching the upper tiers as necessary.


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89682.info is a 4 years old domain.
It was registered by Jin Qing Qing , who can be reached at . The site is owned by jin qing qing. Registration details show that it was registered on 08 Jan 2016 through hichina zhicheng technology limited and will expire on 08 Jan 2017.
Domain Name: 89682.INFO Domain ID: D503300000000648661-LRMS WHOIS Server: Referral URL: Updated Date: Creation Date: 2016-01-08T13:03:08Z Registry Expiry Date: 2017-01-08T13:03:08Z Sponsoring Registrar: HiChina Zhicheng Technology Limited Sponsoring Registrar IANA ID: 420 Domain Status: serverTransferProhibited ID: HC0160976340085 Registrant Name: Jin Qing Qing Registrant Organization: jin qing qing Registrant Street: Shang Hai Shi Pu Dong Xin Qu Bei Ai Lu 1660Long 17Hao 1403Shi Registrant City: Shang Hai Shi Registrant State/Province: Shang Hai Registrant Postal Code: 200120 Registrant Country: CN Registrant Phone: +86.0216885052 Registrant Phone Ext: Registrant Fax: +86.0216885052 Registrant Fax Ext: Registrant Email: Admin ID: HC0160976340085 Admin Name: Jin Qing Qing Admin Organization: jin qing qing Admin Street: Shang Hai Shi Pu Dong Xin Qu Bei Ai Lu 1660Long 17Hao 1403Shi Admin City: Shang Hai Shi Admin State/Province: Shang Hai Admin Postal Code: 200120 Admin Country: CN Admin Phone: +86.0216885052 Admin Phone Ext: Admin Fax: +86.0216885052 Admin Fax Ext: Admin Email: Tech ID: HC0160976340085 Tech Name: Jin Qing Qing Tech Organization: jin qing qing Tech Street: Shang Hai Shi Pu Dong Xin Qu Bei Ai Lu 1660Long 17Hao 1403Shi Tech City: Shang Hai Shi Tech State/Province: Shang Hai Tech Postal Code: 200120 Tech Country: CN Tech Phone: +86.0216885052 Tech Phone Ext: Tech Fax: +86.0216885052 Tech Fax Ext: Tech Email: Billing ID: HC0160976340085 Billing Name: Jin Qing Qing Billing Organization: jin qing qing Billing Street: Shang Hai Shi Pu Dong Xin Qu Bei Ai Lu 1660Long 17Hao 1403Shi Billing City: Shang Hai Shi Billing State/Province: Shang Hai Billing Postal Code: 200120 Billing Country: CN Billing Phone: +86.0216885052 Billing Phone Ext: Billing Fax: +86.0216885052 Billing Fax Ext: Billing Email: Name Server: DNS9.HICHINA.COM Name Server: DNS10.HICHINA.COM DNSSEC: unsigned "For more information on Whois status codes, please visit Access to AFILIAS WHOIS information is provided to assist persons in determining the contents of a domain name registration record in the Afilias registry database. The data in this record is provided by Afilias Limited for informational purposes only, and Afilias does not guarantee its accuracy. This service is intended only for query-based access. You agree that you will use this data only for lawful purposes and that, under no circumstances will you use this data to(a) allow, enable, or otherwise support the transmission by e-mail, telephone, or facsimile of mass unsolicited, commercial advertising or solicitations to entities other than the data recipient's own existing customers; or (b) enable high volume, automated, electronic processes that send queries or data to the systems of Registry Operator, a Registrar, or Afilias except as reasonably necessary to register domain names or modify existing registrations. All rights reserved. Afilias reserves the right to modify these terms at any time. By submitting this query, you agree to abide by this policy.


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The will to win is important, but the will to prepare is vital.
The will to win is important, but the will to prepare is vital.
Just the FAQ, Jack!
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Jolt Awards: Coding Tools, February 06, 2013 The best IDEs and coding tools of the past year
Jolt Awards: Coding Tools
When I consider how my time is spent, it's mostly passed living in one of three tools; my browser, my email client (ugh!), and my coding environment (ah!). If my browser and email tools were as robust and well designed as my IDE, I think life at the keyboard would be a lot happier for me. Development environments are a category of almost breathtaking sweep and quality. In my view, they represent the very best aspects of the tool chain, and quite possibly the very best of client-facing software. They represent an extraordinarily rich world of features and capabilities
The Jolt Awards for coding tools recognize the past 12 months of innovation in the products where most developers reside; that is, where they do the actual work of creating, testing, and debugging code. This year has seen many updates to existing products and a few new tools that are starting to change the coding paradigm as more technologies move to the cloud. For example, one product, Stackato from Active State, heralds that trend, which I think will gain traction between now and these Jolt Awards next year. Increasingly, cloud platforms will host the code, SCM, testing, and build functions; and IDEs will serve only as coding front ends and management consoles into that arrangement. As this evolution proceeds, we'll be covering it, and helping you sort out which are the best products.
The judges in this round were Robert Del Rossi, David Dossot, Gary K. Evans, Jonathan Hartley, Larry O'Brien, Gary Pollice, Mike Riley, Rick Wayne, and I. We pored over the nominees, selected finalists, and put the top products through their paces to identify the best coding tool, to which we accorded the 2012 Jolt Award. The two runners-up (in a very close competition) received Jolt Productivity Awards. And then we list the remaining finalists.
Special thanks go to Rackspace and Safari Books Online for providing products and support to us during this and other Jolt evaluations. And now, to the envelopes…
Andrew Binstock


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In Her Own Words: Living With Autism
Sandra first suspected something was wrong with her son Mike when he was 18 months old. A year later, she learned that he had autism. The New Jersey mom and health-care professional shares her story.
What was your first sign that something was wrong? What symptoms did you notice?
I became concerned about his language development. He was not saying many words. The pediatrician said not to worry, since Mike was a preemie and a boy. And boys talk later. At the 2-year milestone visit, I brought it up again and received the same response. Then the caregivers at day care began pointing out behavior issues that concerned them. For instance, he would refuse to sit in a circle with the other children or attend to what was going on.
What was the diagnosis experience like?
It was a difficult process. The pediatrician finally sent Mike for a hearing evaluation. That came back normal. Then we went to a speech pathologist who said, "This child needs to see a neurologist." The pediatrician still told me everything was fine and refused the referral. But I insisted. The neurologist talked to my husband and I, then looked at my son for two minutes and said, "He has autism." The doctor told us to expect Mike to need special education for the rest of his life. He gave us a list of five organizations to call if we had any questions.
What was your initial and then longer-term reaction to the diagnosis?
I was devastated. My heart was shattered. I'd describe it as deep despair, only with the hope you can do something and it will get better. I don't know that time fixes that. But I've gotten used to feeling these feelings. They don't go away. We've gone through all the emotions-acceptance, denial, grief. You constantly circle through them. Losses occur over and over again, every time the child doesn't get to do the things his peers are doing.
How do you manage autism?
There is no treatment. Mike stayed in day care until he was three. He now attends a school that has special classes for neurologically impaired children. He receives speech therapy to help with expressive language. And he gets oral motor therapy to increase muscle strength and improve his ability to form words. He tries to tell me words and attempts to communicate. But his efforts are thwarted, because his mouth doesn't say what his brain wants it to say. We work on the pragmatic use of language, language for a purpose, rather than repeating words. And my son takes medications to control some of the symptoms.
Did you have to make any lifestyle or dietary changes in response to autism?
Yes. All children like routines and want to know what to expect. This need is heightened in autism. These children don't understand the social cues that go into a situation. So routine and structure help a lot. We stick to routines for going to bed, getting ready for school, coming home. Everything. When we go less structured, like on vacation, we bring along a picture schedule. It may have a photo of a park and a pool. That way he knows we are going to a park and then to swim. We work on transitioning from one activity to another. For instance, when he has to go to physical therapy, I tell him we will leave in one minute, to give him time to finish what he is doing. It takes a consistent effort. If we say something, we have to follow through and do something about it. There has to be a consequence, if he doesn't do what is asked. I took behavioral therapy training at the Center for Outreach and Services for the Autism Community (COSAC). I've learned to find things that motivate him and catch him being good. I reward the smallest behaviors to reinforce them.
Did you seek any type of emotional support?
Shortly after the diagnosis, I went for personal counseling through my company's employee assistance program. It was good to talk to somebody about it. You want them to fix it, but that doesn't happen. I went again about a year later when I was having difficulty with the behaviors. The counselor reassured me but couldn't help me feel better. It is what it is. I've attended support groups. They help some. And I learn from talking with other parents.
Does autism have any impact on your family?
It has a tremendous impact. We constantly struggle with the disability. It affects our family's ability to communicate and socialize, and to do the things typical families do so freely.
What advice would you give to anyone living with autism?
Understand that every child is different. And do what makes sense for you and your child. You need to get connected, like at COSAC, even if you don't have time to volunteer.
Autism Information Center
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Autism Society of America
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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My Asthma Inhaler Doesn't Help. What Can I Do?
I love to run but I have asthma. I have an inhaler but it doesn't help much
before, when, or after I'm running. Is there anything else like a different medicine
that would help me do what I love again?
– Alicia*
Yes! You should be able to get your asthma under control. Exercise is essential to good health, and it's great that you love running so much. So make an appointment with your doctor and tell him or her what's going on.
It sounds like you may need to adjust your medication or add a new medication. As our bodies grow and develop during our teens, it's very common for people with asthma to need changes in their medications.
The good news about asthma is that lots of different treatments are available. Some people only need what's called "rescue" medications around the times when they're most likely to have a flare-up. Others also need what's called "control" medications every day to keep their asthma in check. Your doctor can help you find what works best for you. Sometimes it can take a few tries to find the best option, so keep talking with your doctor about what works and what doesn't.
It's important to get help because your asthma could get worse, and the next asthma attack could be bad. It's best to see the doctor who has treated you in the past and knows your medical history. But if you can't, make sure to see another doctor who can help you or go to a clinic so that you can get the care you need.
*Names have been changed to protect user privacy.