text:
- "Marauders" redirects here. You may also be looking for Ferengi marauders.
Enterprise discovers a deuterium mining colony that is being controlled by Klingon marauders. The crew trains the colonists to defend themselves and prepare for battle against their Klingon oppressors.
Archer, T'Pol and Tucker make a landing at a small mining colony where they hope to make a trade for deuterium, but the colonists appear unwilling to trade even a small amount despite the fact that Enterprise has detected they have a large reserve. The colonists' leader, Tessic, states they are keeping this reserve for someone else and demands the Enterprise crew leave immediately as the colonists are anxiously preparing for the arrival of this other ship. By offering to help with repairs to some broken deuterium pumps however, the crew manages to make themselves more welcome. After further negotiations they strike a deal to exchange power cells and medical supplies in exchange for deuterium, though only if they also manage to help repair the pumps within two days. Upon further inspection of the colony the crew learns how poor the colony is despite its deuterium riches.
While the Enterprise is still in orbit around the colony, a Klingon ship arrives. Archer orders the Enterprise to hide from the Klingon ship, while he and the rest of the crew stay out of sight in the colony observing Tessic's meeting with the Klingons. The Klingons turn out not to be interested in any trade with the colony; instead, they expect to be simply given all the deuterium reserves. Because of their early arrival and the broken pumps the reserves are not at the expected level and the Klingon leader Korok turns violent against Tessic. Demanding that more deuterium be ready when they return within four days, the Klingons leave. Archer discusses the situation with Tessic, finding out that the Klingons have been bullying the colonists for some time already. While they did try to revolt, several colonists were killed in the attempt and Tessic now simply wants Enterprise to settle its deal and leave before the Klingons return.
After returning to Enterprise, Archer feels uncomfortable simply leaving the colony and wants to help. While T'Pol agrees interference would be allowable in this case, she argues it would only make matters worse for the colonists in the end as the Klingons will simply return when Enterprise is no longer around. Archer however returns to the colony to offer Enterprise's help not just to drive the Klingons off once, but to teach the colonists some self-defense.
After Tessic accepts Enterprise's help, Reed and Sato teach some of the colonists improved fire aim, while T'Pol and Mayweather teach them Vulcan weapon strike avoidance techniques. A plan is also set up to lure the Klingons into a deuterium field trap, which involves moving all of the colony's buildings.
When the Klingons return, the colonists and the Enterprise officers manage to successfully battle them and lure them into the trap, setting the field on fire to block their path. Tessic demands the Klingons to beam back to their ship and not to return as the colonists will be ready for them next time. Korok seems humiliated, denounces the colony's deuterium as worthless and beams back. Before finally leaving the colony, the Enterprise is granted a lot more deuterium than originally agreed to in the deal as a reward for their help.
This episode summary has been identified as lacking essential detail, and as such needs attention. Feel free to edit this page to assist with this expansion.
- Please obey copyright policy; do not copy material from other sources without permission.
Memorable Quotes
"There's a saying on my world: 'Give a man a fish and he eats for a day. Teach him to fish and he eats for a lifetime.' "
- - Archer, quoting a Chinese proverb during a conversation with Tessic
"Klingons carry disruptors, but they prefer to use bladed weapons in combat. The two most common being the bat'leth, a curved, bilateral sword, and the mek'leth, two-pronged dagger. The bat'leth can decapitate its victim with one stroke, while the mek'leth is typically used to slash the throat... or disembowel."
- - T'Pol, to the miners
"You won't hurt me."
"It's not you that I'm worried about."
- - T'Pol and Ensign Mayweather, demonstrating Vulcan self-defense tactics to the miners
"But I want to help. I can shoot a shib'a lizard from forty metres."
"Malcolm's got this rule. You've got to be taller than the gun to use it."
"I don't want to hide."
"Shooting a lizard is a lot different from shooting a person. And, uh, lizards don't shoot back."
- - Q'Ell and Commander Tucker, when the former expresses his desire to participate in the fight
"We can get deuterium anywhere! Yours isn't fit for a garbage scow!"
- - Korok, just prior to leaving for good
Background Information
- The evasive techniques T'Pol teaches the colonists are drawn from the Vulcan martial art Suus Mahna, which is named after Mike Sussman.
- Among the recycled phasers used by the deuterium miners are Jem'Hadar hand phasers, Bajoran phaser rifles, and the Klingon sniper rifle from Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country. This is also the first time we see the Starfleet (Earth) phase rifles, which are a reuse of the Jem'Hadar phaser rifles.
- A Kreetassan merchant recommended the colony, probably because the Enterprise visited the Kreetassan homeworld in the previous episode.
- We learn that the Doctor's osmotic eel (seen in "Broken Bow") is a female.
- This episode was inspired by the feature film The Magnificent Seven, which itself was inspired by the Japanese film Seven Samurai. The colony represents the village in that film; the deuterium represents the rice; the Enterprise crew represent the seven heroes; etc.
- Both Larry Cedar and Bari Hochwald guest-starred in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. Cedar played Nydrom in "Armageddon Game" and Hochwald played Doctor Elizabeth Lense in "Explorers".
- Several items from this episode were sold off on the It's A Wrap! sale and auction on eBay, including a Klingon padd pouch [1], a metal canteen [2], and a Klingon bat'leth strap. [3]
Links and references
- Scott Bakula as Captain Jonathan Archer
- John Billingsley as Doctor Phlox
- Jolene Blalock as Subcommander T'Pol
- Dominic Keating as Lieutenant Malcolm Reed
- Anthony Montgomery as Ensign Travis Mayweather
- Linda Park as Ensign Hoshi Sato
- Connor Trinneer as Commander Charles "Trip" Tucker III
Guest stars
- Larry Cedar as Tessic
- Steven Flynn as Maklii
- Bari Hochwald as E'lis
- Jesse James Rutherford as Q'Ell
- Robertson Dean as Korok
Uncredited co-stars
- Vince Deadrick, Jr. as Klingon #3
- Christopher Doyle as Klingon #4
- Leigh Hennessy as a Female Miner
- Unknown performers as
Stunt double
- Bridgett Riley as stunt double for Jolene Blalock
auto-suture; bat'leth; canteen; cardio-stimulator; colony; crawler; D5 class; deuterium; disruptor; drill rig; extraction pump; garbage scow; gas giant; hexatriol; induction valve; Kellenite; Kellenite starship; Klaang; Klingons; Klingon freighter; Klingon High Council; Kreetassan; liter; mek'leth; millibar; Navorkot; neural shock kit; osmotic eel; phase inverter; plasma; plasma burn; power cell; power coupling; shib'a lizard; Shuttlepod 1; star system; Suliban; Suus Mahna; targ; Tessic's species; vascular adhesive, Vulcans
|Previous episode:
"A Night in Sickbay"
|Star Trek: Enterprise
Season 2
|Next episode:
"The Seventh"


text:
USAF F-15 Fleet Grounded Following Crash
USAF F-15 Fleet Grounded Following Crash
The Air Force has grounded its F-15 Eagle fleet following the crash of a Missouri Air National Guard F-15C on Nov. 2. However, F-15s assigned to North American Aerospace Defense Command and U.S. Central Command Air Forces will be on alert and fly required missions, officials said yesterday.
Although the incident is still under investigation, preliminary findings indicate a possible structural failure led to last week's crash during a training exercise near Salem, Mo.
"The Air Force is looking at its operational requirements, where they have the newer aircraft and making some of those available for missions while they take a look at the F-15 fleet to see if they have a more systemic problem throughout the fleet," Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman said.
Air Force officials said they will ensure mission requirements are met for worldwide operations normally accomplished by the F-15. Flying locations include bases in the continental United States, Alaska, England, Hawaii, Japan and the Middle East.
"It is important to remember, in the F-15E, that not all F-15s are created equal," Whitman said. "It is a family of aircraft built over a long period of time; some earlier models have been in service a lot longer than F-15Es."
About 700 aging F-15s are in today's Air Force inventory. The fleet first reached operational capability in September 1975. The aircraft involved in last week's crash was built in 1980, officials said. While the F-15 continues to prove highly effective in ongoing operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, the Air Force is on a course to eventually replace the aging F-15 A, B, C and D fleet with the stealthy F-22 Raptor.
The F-15 Eagle is an all-weather, extremely maneuverable, tactical fighter designed to permit the Air Force to gain and maintain air supremacy over the battlefield, according to Air Force officials.
The F-15C, D and E models were deployed to the Persian Gulf in 1991 in support of Operation Desert Storm. F-15C fighters accounted for 34 of the 37 Air Force air-to-air victories in that conflict.
They have since been deployed for Air Expeditionary Force deployments and operations Southern Watch, the no-fly zone in southern Iraq; Provide Comfort, in Turkey; Allied Force, in Bosnia; Enduring Freedom, in Afghanistan; and Iraqi Freedom, officials said.
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subset: commoncrawl


text:
By Angelina Fanous
Last time we heard from Chevy Chase on the subject of Community, it was via two angry voice mails left for show creator Dan Harmon that were leaked last month, in which Chase complained that he was not allowed to be funny on what he declared "a mediocre fucking sitcom" that "ain't funny to me." Harmon quasi-apologized to Chase (but mostly to the show's fans) in a subsequent blog post. Since then, all has been quiet and everything certainly seemed fine among everyone's alter egos in the scripted world of Greendale. We caught up with Chase last night at the opening night of the Columbia University Film Festival, held at Lincoln Center's Alice Tully Hall, and asked him about the show. Turns out it's not all water under the bridge — but as we learned, please don't use a cliché like that around him. Here's what Chase had to say:
Will Pierce take his "suspension" or will he give going back to school another shot?
I have no idea. I don't even know if we'll be picked up.
How do you think the fans of Community would react if Pierce suddenly graduated and completely left?
I don't want to talk about that. Why would I? We don't know if the show has been picked up. Even if it had been picked up, I haven't made a deal. I have to go through all that stuff before I can give you my opinion on the character. It's not easy to answer that, because I haven't made my deal yet.
How would you change things on the show?
I'd make it funnier.
How would you make it funnier?
With my brand of humor. I'm not crazy about that character and I'm getting tired of playing him.
What don't you like about him?
I just don't think the writing of that character reflects what I do comedically, and I love the people I work with. They're all good kids, and they all do very well in their parts. But I don't think anyone has a sense of what to do with me, so I got to play some gray-haired, biased, bigoted guy. I've been too funny in my life to have to play a character who's ... moderately funny.
Has the controversy around the show increased its chances of getting renewed?
There is no controversy. I don't know what people have been told, but it's over. I spoke to the producer [Dan Harmon]. That's long gone.
When was the last time you spoke to him?
I'm not going to tell you when was the last time I spoke to him, but like I said, that's long gone. I don't remember.
Would you say "time heals all wounds"?
I wouldn't answer such a cliché.
What a dick. Community would be better off without him anyway imo.
What a dick. Community would be better off without him anyway imo.


text:
[Krabi hotels]
中 文
日 本
The Palace Aonang Resort
208 Moo 2, Ao Nang,
Muang, Krabi 81000
Ao Nang
Hotel category:
Traveler ratings
Summary of 36 reviews :
Room :
Facilities :
Service :
Location :
The Palace Aonang Resort, the reasonably-priced resort situated in the heart of the famed Ao Nang Area, provides an easy access to the sparkling white sandy beach, just 5 minutes' walk away. This is the place where you can relax and unwind amidst the natural tropical settings, both lush greeneries and emerald Andaman Sea.
The comfortable comes in 2 types namely Superior and Deluxe. Each guestroom is fully furnished with good quality amenities for your comfort and relaxation, together with private balcony overlooking the magnificent scenery. In-house facilities include a massive swimming pool, fitness centre, traditional Thai massage, motorbike and jeep rentals, 24-hour power supply and security, and tour agent service.
Hotel summary
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Travel reviews for The Palace Aonang Resort
Date of stay:
May 11, 2016
Accommodation and facilities:
nice location and good price.
Reservation service:
Jun 01, 2016
written by:
Date of stay:
Apr 09, 2015
Accommodation and facilities:
Skithotell... Trasig nyckel som vi fick betala för, sen var det som ett brev på posten att rummet var genomsökt & mitt Handelsbanken-kort blev stulet !!! Bo INTE här !!!!!!!
Reservation service:
Bra service av Sawadee.com
Apr 14, 2015
written by:
Ann-Cathrin Loefvenhamn
Date of stay:
Mar 24, 2015
Accommodation and facilities:
Staff was very good, place was good near to everything. The room was not so good as it take pay for, i could hear a cat mjau outside the street, every little noice i hear from the road
Reservation service:
Good good good!!
Apr 08, 2015
written by:
Date of stay:
Oct 13, 2014
Accommodation and facilities:
Petit hôtel sans prétention mais propre, chambre refaites, un peu bruyant côté rue, bien situé à une centaine de mètres de la plage, petit déjeuner correct, tarif à contrôler en fonction de la saison, Aonang est une station touristique chère en haute saison...
Reservation service:
Perfect same every time, thanks !
Oct 16, 2014
written by:
Date of stay:
Aug 20, 2014
Accommodation and facilities:
Perfect location, comfortable room with aircon, fridge, good bathroom. Breakfast is not the best but enought and the swimming pool wasn t available during 2 days, after the renovation was good for refreshment. Staff should be nicer....
Reservation service:
Aug 23, 2014
written by:
vanessa roquer
Date of stay:
Feb 22, 2014
Accommodation and facilities:
A éviter impérativement au vu du prix pratiqué et de la prestation offerte. Des moustiques, chambre sale, pas de téléphone dans la chambre pour appeler la réception, climatisation extrêmement bruyante, aucune isolation phonique, photo de la piscine une arnaque car prise d en haut on a l impression qu elle est grande alors que c est tout le contraire, le petit déjeuner une catastrophe si vous aimez le café réchauffé allez y, en résumé c est un endroit (pas hotel) très bas de gamme eu égard au prix pratiqué.
Reservation service:
RAS tout est nickel Sawadee ne devrait pas proposer cet hôtel.
Feb 26, 2014
written by:
Date of stay:
Feb 12, 2014
Accommodation and facilities:
Dieses Hotel war das schlechteste was ich in Thailand hatte.Das Hotel war das Geld nicht wert!!Hier wären 1000 BHT ok....nicht mehr!!!haben von Superior auf Delux umgebucht,aber die Zimmerqualität hatte sich nicht geändert,außer keinen Straßenlärm mehr.Die Zimmer sind uralt und abgewohnt, wie das ganze Hotel.Teilweise schimmlige Bettlacken und Bettbezüge.Die Bäder sind aus der Steinzeit,verschimmelt und dreckig!!Klimaanlage sehr laut!Frühstück war einigermaßen in Ordnung,muß man aber auch nicht haben.Das Personal hat sich aber mühe gegebenem uns zufrieden zustellen. Es war nett und hilfsbereit.
Reservation service:
Buchung hat super funktioniert.Gerne wieder!
Feb 16, 2014
written by:
Ralf Henke
Date of stay:
Jan 02, 2014
Accommodation and facilities:
very little value for money..pool was extremly dirty,poolbar never opened
Reservation service:
Jan 08, 2014
written by:
Petra Hansson lindblad
Date of stay:
Jan 24, 2013
Accommodation and facilities:
A perfect location near the beach, with restaurants, shops, ATM round the corner. Perfect tourist information at the hotel. Good service with coffee in the room, cold water in the fridge every day and towels for beach and pool. Nice poolarea, pleasant breakfast room. There is only one thing taht s not perfect and that s the tiny balcony with wooden benches.
Reservation service:
We are satisfied both with information and the way it was handled.
Jan 28, 2013
written by:
eivor björnfot-ragnar björnfot
Date of stay:
Nov 28, 2012
Accommodation and facilities:
I booked a standard room, which was very noisy as it was towards the street. The door for the balcony had a 1 cm gap so all mosquitos were invited to share my room. The aircondition was very noisy. I upgraded against mark up price to a so called deluxe room towards the mountains. In general it is a worn out hotel. They did not even change the table cloths every day. The matless on the pool chairs had many holes and after a rain nobody took care to clean them. Nobody ever cleaned the balcony.
Reservation service:
Dec 18, 2012
written by:
Christian Klemm
Date of stay:
Aug 26, 2012
Accommodation and facilities:
I came back here as it was a pleasant experience the year before. Nothing of this happened this year. The large number of personell is hypnoticallybusy in playing with internet and does not care about customers. Swimming pool was dirty and no one took care of it. Room cleaning terrible and rooms filled with a large number of insects. So long, never again
Reservation service:
Sep 03, 2012
written by:
gianantonio marco
Date of stay:
Feb 29, 2012
Accommodation and facilities:
+ Very good location and breakfast, + Hotel personal was very nice - the pool was dirty and the jet bubbles didn´t work
Reservation service:
Sep 20, 2012
written by:
Jens Ström
THB ฿ Thailand
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"We are warm welcome to our place with appreciate."
The Palace Aonang Resort
comes with standard quality accommodations. 41 hotel air-condition rooms divide into 2 types as Superior Room and Deluxe Room well decorated with full standard facilities and services. Every room contains with a private balcony, swimming pool as a basic facility, suite for all requirement, the advantage of palace is located in heart of Aonang easy to access all places in Aonang.
"Luxury, Comfort within Light Price"
Our 41 air-condition hotel rooms divided into 2 types room as Superior Room and Deluxe Room, well decorated with full standard facilities, private balcony and all hotel room built and manage under concept of "Easy living, Comfort and Convenience" for your stay.
:: Superior Room ::
Room size 19 sq.m. come with garden front balcony, chair & table, air-conditioner, cable TV., coffee set, refrigerator, mini bar, wardrobe, dressing table, hair dryer and bathroom with hot shower.
:: Deluxe Room ::
Room size 25 sq.m. come with garden front balcony, chair & table, air-conditioner, cable TV., coffee set, refrigerator, mini bar, wardrobe, dressing table, hair dryer and bathroom with hot shower.
:: Triple Room with Mountain View ::
All Room Facilities
Chairs with table
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facilities and services were well selected to suite on any standard requirement. These will provide comfortable stay with
:: Our Resort Facilities & Services ::
Beverage bar
Swimming pool
Thai massage
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Oversea call, fax, internet & post box service
Motorbike and jeep rental service
Tour agent service (Scuba diving, fishing tour, sightseeing tour & all ticket service)
24 hour power supply and security
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[The Palace Aonang Resort ]
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text:
LONDON (Reuters) - A global campaign to tax trillions of dollars hidden in offshore tax havens has made revolutionary progress, an official leading the drive said, rejecting suggestions that the super rich are running rings around Western authorities.
Pascal Saint-Amans, director of a unit at the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, also cast doubt on estimates that the havens are illicitly sheltering wealth equivalent to several hundred times the fortune of Bill Gates.
Leaders of the G20 group of leading Western and developing nations launched the campaign three years ago, aiming to claw back billions in lost tax revenue at a time when many governments are trying to cut huge budget deficits.
Saint-Amans said his gut feeling was that before the G20's initiative at its 2009 London summit, people could hide their wealth in offshore havens without any risk of legal reprisals.
"Now you are at risk and that's a major change. That's a revolution," Paris-based Saint-Amans told Reuters in a telephone interview. Even if money is transferred abroad, rules improving transparency have made it easier for the taxman to find it, said Saint-Amans, whose unit is tasked with leading the Western efforts to fight tax evasion.
The Tax Justice Network, a campaign group, estimated last weekend that as much as $21 to $32 trillion of financial assets are sheltered in offshore tax havens, representing up to $280 billion in lost income tax.
That total wealth would dwarf the fortune of Microsoft Corp cofounder and philanthropist Bill Gates. In March Forbes magazine ranked Gates second on its global rich list with total wealth of a mere $61 billion.
Saint-Amans suggested the TJN estimates might be overstated. "I was wondering where the equivalent of 450 Bill Gates are hiding from everyone. It looks like the equivalent 20,000 unknown billionaires in the world or 200,000 people with net worth of 100 million," he said.
The Scorpio Partnership, a consultancy that analyses the global private wealth management industry, estimates the amount of money held offshore by people worth at least $1 million at a more modest $8-$9 trillion.
Saint-Amans, who heads the OECD's Centre for Tax Policy and Administration, acknowledged his organisation makes no equivalent estimate. "I would rather spend the resource improving the legal framework and putting an end to loopholes than trying to find the magic number," he said.
In a statement accompanying its research, TJN criticized the OECD and other international bodies for not doing enough to track offshore wealth, saying it was scandalous that institutions devoted so little research to the issue.
G20 leaders agreed at their London summit to crack down on tax evasion and banking secrecy, and asked the OECD to publish lists of tax havens according to how cooperative authorities there are on releasing information about offshore wealth holdings.
There are now 89 countries on the OECD's "white list" of jurisdictions that have implemented internationally agreed tax standards. These jurisdictions have between them signed more than 800 agreements on exchanging information with authorities other countries, Saint-Amans said.
"Until 2009, countries said being secretive is justified and fair. The change in the world is nobody says that any more, so that is a big change," he said.
Western tax authorities have individually stepped up efforts to net more money hidden abroad by their own citizens through a series of amnesties targeting people with accounts in jurisdictions such as Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
At the same time they have turned up the heat on citizens suspected of tax evasion. This has included using details of Swiss accounts originally stolen from HSBC by a former IT employee that found their way into the hands of tax authorities around Europe.
Britain's HMRC tax office expects an amnesty offering leniency to people with accounts in Liechtenstein if they come clean to raise about 3 billion pounds, while a similar deal on Swiss accounts will bring in up to 7 billion pounds.
Campaigners argue that such initiatives will achieve only limited success because a financial industry designed to ensure confidentiality across multiple jurisdictions makes it impossible to shut down tax fraud or money laundering.
"Anybody who's serious about holding money offshore ... will hold it through a trust," said Richard Murphy, a chartered accountant and director of Tax Research, a think-tank.
"You'd have the trust in one territory, the company in another territory, its directors in another territory and its bank account in a fourth territory. So making an application for information is not very simple."
Murphy dismissed the OECD's progress in cracking down on tax havens, arguing that implementation of information exchange between territories is limited in practice and the process too complex to be workable.
"They've set up a system where it's virtually impossible to apply for information ... The OECD claiming they are making progress is like checking the stable door has been shut way after the horse bolted. Not just the horse, the entire stable has bolted," he said.
The TJN research on offshore wealth - authored by James Henry, a former chief economist at consultant McKinsey & Co - highlights the "often unsavory role" played by banks in catering to rich individuals who want to hide money offshore.
Large private banks with offshore businesses reject the idea they aid tax evasion.
"Our Code of Conduct explicitly says not to assist clients in activities intended to breach their tax obligations," said a spokesman for Swiss bank Credit Suisse who declined to comment specifically on the contents of the TJN report
But recent crackdowns by tax authorities in countries such as Britain, the United States and Germany have proved embarrassing for Swiss banks.
German tax authorities are investigating roughly 5,000 German clients of Credit Suisse while French officials have searched the homes of UBS employees.
At least 11 Swiss banks suspected of helping wealthy American clients dodge taxes are currently subject to a U.S. investigation.
Saint-Amans said the OECD's efforts have focused on engaging with governments rather than imposing more supervision on financial institutions. The complexity of the industry, he said, meant that greater information exchange was the best way to tackle people using banking secrecy to break the law.
"I'm not sure that nationalizing the banking industry throughout the world is the solution. The fact you have private practitioners being involved in a sophisticated environment is why you need to favor transparency and exchange of information," he said.
Efforts to increase disclosure and combat both tax evasion and money laundering by international bodies such as the OECD and the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), a Paris-based inter-governmental body, have focused on self regulation.
"We've tried to ensure that what we're talking about is not to create some draconian system where we put a policeman in every financial institution which would be impossible to do," said a senior source at the FATF, which was set up to combat money laundering and terrorist financing.
Nick Matthews, anti-money laundering and offshore financial industry specialist at Kinetic Partners, said purging the world's financial system is "incredibly difficult".
"Clearly tax evasion leads to money laundering and is a crime but you would have money laundering even if there was no tax, because you still have proceeds from crime or corruption polluting the financial system," he said.
"That is why I say that no bank would ever stand up and claim that they are not being used to launder money. They appreciate that they are only as strong as their weakest link."
(Additional reporting by Katharina Bart and Martin de Sa'Pinto in Zurich; editing by David Stamp)


text:
George Lucas was, at one point in time; a visionary.
Said "point" in time lasted about 5 minutes.
Through films like THX 1138, the man demonstrated his eye for visuals; as well as his weakness in the areas of narrative and storytelling.
Films like American Graffiti, as well as some of the later entries in the Star Wars and Indiana Jones series made clear the man's love for hot rod/car culture.
Given the ludicrous number of references to pre-existing films that are featured in the Star Wars films, it's tough to say just how legit the man's creativity was, but that's not the subject of today's article and I'd prefer not to get into to it for the sake of avoiding the inevitable case of carpal tunnel that would likely emerge if I were to attempt to address such an issue at length.
*AHEM!* That being said, despite all the wonderful franchises and stories that George Lucas has given us over the years, ever since the release of the Star Wars Special Edition series in the late 90's, there's been a recurring theme of "control freak-ery" regarding Mr. Lucas.
With seemingly every successive release of the Star Wars series (of which there have been many) numerous tweaks have been made, ranging from the major to the infinitesimal in regards to their impact on the overall package.
With the impending release of the Star Wars series on blu ray, (as well as the upcoming 3-D theatrical re-re-releases) it has been confirmed that more minor tweaks are on the horizon.
An article at Topless Robot covering each of these changes in detail can be found here.
Aside from R2-D2 hiding behind rocks that are physically impassible given his proportions, and Yoda being changed to a CGI character in Episode I, (a change I think is actually for the better) the one of these changes that stuck out the most to me, was that of the audio for Obi-Wan's Krayt Dragon cry that he used to scare off the Tusken Raiders in Episode IV.
In my mind, the original audio had him sounding like a high pitched fire alarm mixed with a Dewback call.
Given, that's just me going by memory, as it's been a few years since I've seen A New Hope.
Anyway, this new version of Obi-Wan's scream, sounds just plain weird to me:
I guess Lucas wanted to change it because, let's face it; despite the series' unbelievable sound design, Obi-Wan's yell did indeed sound like a mish-mash of familiar elements, but even so; this sounds just plain odd to me.
It's like the audio sounds too crisp for the video or some shit.
Oh yeah, and don't pretend for a minute that it doesn't remind you of this:
Filed under: Movies, Uncategorized, Wrestling, American Graffiti, Blu-Ray, changes, control freak, Dewback, Episode I, Episode IV, films, George Lucas, Indiana Jones, Krayt Dragon, Movies, Obi-Wan Kenobi, R2-D2, Star Wars, THX 1138, Tusken Raiders, tweaks, Ultimate Warrior, wrestling, WWE, WWF, Yoda


text:
Mo, Jeter proud of the way Pettitte completes career
Yanks teammates react to left-hander going the distance against Astros in final start
HOUSTON -- Mariano Rivera was on the closing end for 72 of Andy Pettitte's victories, a dynamic duo that established a Major League record for win-save combinations. This time, Rivera was thrilled to watch Pettitte finish off the ninth inning all by himself.
"I was pulling for him, knowing he was there alone," Rivera said after the Yankees' 2-1 win over the Astros at Minute Maid Park. "That was his game. We just had to cheer for him. That's what we did. That's what I did."
Rivera announced before Saturday's game that he would not pitch during this series against the Astros, thus allowing Thursday's emotional farewell at Yankee Stadium to stand as his final big league appearance.
The all-time saves leader thought it was incredibly appropriate that Pettitte was able to score his own perfect exit, polishing off his first complete game in seven years by holding the Astros to five hits in front of dozens of friends and family members.
"I'm proud of him. He's the best," Rivera said. "That's how God works; he gave him his last game being at home, threw a complete game, he did it alone with the Lord. Amazing. I'm so happy for him. He deserved that.
"... Going out on your own terms is the best. I think he did the right thing."
Yankees captain Derek Jeter joked that Pettitte would probably need to pay a visit to noted elbow surgeon Dr. James Andrews after throwing 116 pitches at age 41, but Jeter said that he was not surprised Pettitte was able to summon the energy to empty the tank one last time.
"He did an awesome job, but what would you expect otherwise?" Jeter said. "He's been pitching big games his entire career. I know this one meant a lot to him; he wanted to have a good outing his last time out."
Yankees left-hander CC Sabathia said that the effort showed that Pettitte is "a champion."
"That was amazing," Sabathia said. "[Bullpen coach Mike] Harkey told him he's been holding out on us. Just to watch him grind that out, pitch the way he pitched, it was unbelievable. I'm so proud of him. That's a great way to go out."
Even for the opponents, it has been special to be involved in the celebrations. The Astros' Brandon Laird, a former Yankee, was among the group of Houston players who came on the field to applaud Pettitte's effort after the ninth inning.
"It gave me chills," Laird said. "It was a special day for him and I'm glad I was a part of it. He was outstanding."
Sabathia noted that it is difficult to put into words what the Yankees' last week has been like.
"These are generational players, guys you don't find every day," Sabathia said. "They're leaving the game, so it's tough. I wish them the best and I'm happy for them, but it's been very emotional."
Jeter said that it has been simultaneously fun and sad to watch Pettitte and Rivera march off into the sunset together, but the captain is happy that his longtime teammates are getting to go out on their own terms.
"These are guys I'm going to miss," Jeter said. "I'm happy they've gotten all the accolades they deserve and the appreciation from the fans."


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Workshop on Antarctic sea-ice highlights need for CryoSat-2 mission
Sea-ice thickness is an important parameter in modelling global climate, and moreover, long-term changes are considered to be a reliable indicator of climate change. However, estimates of sea-ice thickness trends around Antarctica are currently very limited. An international workshop held recently made it clear that these essential data can only be obtained from satellite missions such as CryoSat-2.
The International Workshop on Antarctic Sea-Ice Thickness in Hobart, Australia, brought together around 60 scientists from different countries and disciplines within the sea-ice science community. It provided the forum for the much-needed discussion on methods of measuring sea-ice thickness and snow-cover thickness, addressing all disciplines of field science, remote sensing and modelling. Over the three-day event, which was held on 5 - 7 July 2006, talks highlighted the fact that ice-thickness trends around Antarctica are still largely unknown and that information on seasonal, inter-annual and decadal thickness variations is very scarce.
Ice plays an important role in the regulation of the Earth's climate. Therefore, data on ice-thickness trends are crucial to furthering our knowledge of climate change. For this reason, ESA's Earth Explorer CryoSat-2 mission is dedicated to monitoring precise changes in the thickness floating sea ice as well as changes in the thickness of the polar ice sheets. CryoSat-2, which is due for launch in 2009, replaces the first CryoSat mission, which failed due to a launch error in 2005.
In the Arctic, recent measurements taken from both space-borne radar and laser instruments have demonstrated the potential to provide estimates of ice thickness over time. Taking measurements in the Antarctic, however, presents additional challenges. In particular, the effects of the thick snow cover in this region can confuse the retrieval of ice-thickness data from space. As it is very important to understand and allow for the impact that the overlying snow has on ice-thickness data, the need for a range of continued validation techniques was highlighted as a key issue at the workshop.
Validation experiments dedicated to the CryoSat-2 mission have been carried out extensively in the Arctic. Through these experiments, a better understanding of the impact that snow has on CryoSat-2 data is expected before launch. In order for data on Antarctic sea-ice from CryoSat-2 to be as accurate as possible, further validation is required from in-situ observations. However, due to the remoteness of the region and its hostile environment this is no easy task.
The aim is to collate existing field data from activities that are being carried out in the region to the best advantage. For instance, ship-based observations of sea ice conditions have been collected from a number of Russian, Australian, US, German and British voyages over the last 20 years or so. The data from each voyage has been consolidated into a format defined by the Antarctic Sea Ice Processes and Climate (ASPeCt) programme. Nevertheless, there are still many gaps in the data.
Other novel sea-ice measurement techniques discussed at the workshop include upward looking sonar, and surface and airborne low-frequency electromagnetic induction methods. In addition, a video technique has been employed in the way of an Ice-Cam, which is an automated sea-ice observing and environmental data logging system installed on an icebreaker. Photographs from the Ice-Cam can be processed for sea-ice parameters using supporting data from other onboard sensors.
To realise a better understanding of the current global climate and what might happen in future, the science community needs a better picture of conditions at the poles. ESA's CryoSat-2 mission aims to make a significant contribution to this requirement. Among the many challenges associated with building and launching a spacecraft, making sure the resulting data is as accurate and meaningful as possible is arguably one of the more important aspects of the mission.
As records of sea-ice thickness in the Antarctic are currently so rare, the need for continued fieldwork measurements along with the consolidation of existing and new datasets is very apparent. In this context, the International Polar Year in 2007-2008 will provide the background for the science community to work together and focus on enhancing international collaboration in the Polar Regions. Researchers from different fields look forward to addressing questions and issues lying beyond the scope of individual disciplines and aim to ensure that data collected are made widely available – benefiting the community at large and ultimately helping prepare the way for the CryoSat-2 mission in 2009.


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Sam Newman can expect a fresh wave of criticism after flashing his genitals to a national television audience on Thursday night.
No stranger to controversy, the Geelong forward-turned-TV-celebrity has previously attracted attention for views seen as racist and sexist.
However on Thursday night, Newman gave viewers an entirely different view.
The AFL Footy Show star, 69, took to the show's stage wearing unbuttoned Port Adelaide pyjamas.
As he was rolled off a hospital bed by a high-skirted nurse, he exposed himself to the Adelaide crowd and viewers.
The Logie-winning show, which was broadcast live on the road from Adelaide, regularly attracts hundreds of thousands of viewers. It moved to an 8:30pm timeslot last year.
Images and videos of Newman's efforts quickly spread across Twitter.
"Seeing Sam Newman's Crown Jewels on national TV is enough for me. Show has lost the plot." one person Tweeted.
Others were offended by the role of the lingerie-clad nurse.
"Only took Sam Newman and the boys about 15 seconds to revert to being chauvinistic pigs." another said.
Newman's privates have previously featured on The Footy Show at least once, when he was 'dacked' by Shane Crawford in 2001.
Newman played 300 games for Geelong from 1964-80.
* 2014 – Newman is widely accused of homophobia when he calls gay NFL draftee Michael Sam kissing his boyfriend an "annoyingly gratuitous act". Newman is booed and criticised by hosts James Brayshaw and Garry Lyon
* 2010 – Newman hits a golf ball off Uluru and is criticised for disrespecting traditional owners
* 2009 – Newman suggests a Malaysian man is "not long out of the forest". The media watchdog rules Newman was likely to have provoked severe ridicule on the basis of the man's colour and race
* 2008 – Newman attempts to mock Fairfax journalist Caroline Wilson, putting a photo of her face to a lingerie-wearing mannequin. Wilson called the stunt "degrading, humiliating and insulting"
* 2008 – Newman criticised after appearing to slur Tasmanian politician Paula Wriedt, saying "We couldn't get her on, could we? …"
* 2008 – Channel Nine settles a defamation claim brought by a Western Bulldogs board member after Newman calls her a liar and a hypocrite on air. The comments cost $220,000 plus costs
* 2001 – Newman's genitals appear on national TV after he is dacked by Shane Crawford
* 1999 – Newman dons black face paint to impersonate Nicky Winmar at a time when racial vilification is a hot issue in the league


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Large sewage spill fouls Stamford Harbor
STAMFORD -- Fire and health department officials are trying to figure out how to deal with a large sewage spill on the East Branch of Stamford Harbor.
The spill appears too large to contain and when the tide turns, the floating, stinking mounds of effluent will be swept into the Sound.
The spill was called in at about 7:30 a.m. Friday, said fire Capt. John Sierra. At that time the floating mess was spread throughout the upper part of the East Branch of the Harbor around Czescik Marina and the nearby city wastewater treatment plant. The south wind then pushed much of the effluent with some dead fish over to the city marina's east shore, Sierra said.
City Marine police Sgt. Pete Wolff said the tide was up Friday morning at 9:06, then the tide is slack for about an hour before it begins going out. An expected wind shift may also hasten the waste's down harbor exit.
Fire officials said at this time the spill is so large that it cannot be contained.
"There is so much stuff, it cannot be boomed," said Sierra adding, "There is not much we can do."
Deputy Fire Chief Tim Conroy said the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection and the U.S. Coast Guard had been notified of the spill.
Sierra said that fire units were dispatched to the city's waste treatment plant to determine if that is where the spill came from.
Conroy said the spill could have come from a boat, but he said it would have to be a very big boat.
Just about to go out and do some fishing out on the Sound off Greenwich Point, fisherman Mike Moskowitz of Stamford shook his head as he left his slip at Czescik Marina this morning.
"This is just disturbing to know when we go out and fish to put food on our table that this is the water we are getting our fish from," he said. "Today is going to be a catch and release day."


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February 26, 2018
February Home Maintenance Checklist
Posted in Long & Foster, Living, and Architecture by Suzanne Whitenight Pilcher
It's February – winter's not over yet, but spring is right around the corner. If you have cabin fever from being inside, cleaning and freshening up your house can help you get through this last month of winter and be ready to get outside when spring arrives. Once you check these items off your to-do list, you'll be able to relax by the fire with a good book and enjoy the last few weeks of winter.
Read More >
January 22, 2018
Five Reasons You Need Renters Insurance
Posted in Long & Foster by Leslie Loges
It might be tempting as a renter to think that you don't need an insurance policy if you're renting an apartment or home, but not having one could cost you more than you think. A 2016 poll by the Insurance Information Institute found that only 41 percent of renters have their own renters insurance policy. Here are a few reasons why it's important to have your own insurance policy as a renter.
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December 11, 2017
Stage Your Home to Impress Holiday Guests
Posted in Long & Foster and Living by Novelda Sommers
A few tricks used by professional home stagers can make your home holiday-guest-ready, even if you're preparing for a visit from your in-laws, not potential buyers.
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November 13, 2017
November Home Maintenance Checklist
Posted in Long & Foster and Living by Suzanne Whitenight Pilcher
November brings a transition to shorter days, colder weather and spending more time indoors. It also brings anticipation, planning and preparation for Thanksgiving and the upcoming winter holidays. Our checklist this month includes small, quick and easy tasks you can do now to get a jump start on your holiday hosting preparation so you can enjoy friends and family when they arrive.
Read More >


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Daughter of the Bride
a novel
When my mom announced she was getting remarried, I was both excited and disoriented. There she was, pushing 60, widowed, discovering new love, and planning an elaborate wedding. There I was, of prime marrying age (29,)dating like mad, and finding nothing but frustration. As I helped her pick out her white wedding gown, I realized I was acting as the "mother of the bride" to my own mother.
I sought etiquette guides, novels, self-help books - anything to help me through the process - but came up empty-handed.
So, I wrote a book: Daughter of the Bride.
The novel will resonate with anyone trying to make sense of our upside-down world, in which parents act like children, children act like parents, and marriage isn't reserved for the young.
Amid these awkward circumstances, there is humor: at the bridal salons, the salesladies often thought I was the bride. There is opportunity: my mother and I grew closer as we navigated our way through the process. And there is hope: in our parents' remarriages, we can find proof that it's never too late to find love.


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IRA Rollover Returns! - (December 17, 2010)
Congress Reinstates IRA Rollover for 2010 and 2011
Just after midnight last night, a top policy priority for orchestras and the broader nonprofit community met with success! Congress has approved a broad tax package that includes reinstatement of the IRA Charitable Rollover giving incentive. This giving incentive is retroactively reinstated for gifts made during 2010, and extended throughout 2011. Also, gifts made by January 31, 2011 may be recognized as 2010 gifts for tax purposes.
On December 31, 2009, the IRA Charitable Rollover expired along with a number of other tax provisions. Be sure to inform donors that this important charitable giving incentive is once again available. The IRA Rollover allows donors 70 1/2 and older to make up to $100,000 in charitable contributions directly from their individual retirement accounts (IRA), without paying federal taxes on the withdrawal. This has proven to be an important giving incentive, resulting in new and increased charitable giving to orchestras and the full range of nonprofit organizations.
IRA Charitable Rollover - Highlights
- Permits donors age 70 ½ and older to make tax-free charitable gifts directly from their IRAs
- Caps qualifying gifts to an annual ceiling of $100,000
- For 2010 tax purposes, applies to gifts made January 1, 2010 through January 31, 2011
- For 2011, expires December 31, 2011
Learn More About the IRA Charitable Rollover
Sneak Peak at NEA Guideline Changes
The guidelines for preparing an FY12 grant application to the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) will look significantly different when released on January 13, 2011. The largest NEA grant-making categories, Access to Artistic Excellence and Learning in the Arts for Children and Youth, will be replaced with a new funding category called Art Works. Please see the League's detailed description of changes to the grant process, and take note of the following FY12 deadlines:
- Art Works: March 10, 2011
- Art Works: August 11, 2011
- Challenge America Fast-Track: May 26, 2011
The NEA has posted a helpful overview of the changes in store for FY12. Take a look and consider what these changes might mean for your orchestra's grant opportunities.
View NEA's Presentation Outlining the FY12 Grant Process
Remember New Visa Fees and Form!
Orchestras that engage international guest artists take note! On November 23, the fee for regularly-filed O & P visa petitions increased to $325 and the Premium Processing Service fee increased to $1,225. All petitions must be submitted with the proper fee as U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will return any petitions filed with insufficient fees.
USCIS has also released a new version of the I-129 Form, which is used to apply for artist visas. December 21, 2010 is the last day for postmarking to USCIS the previous edition of the Form I-129. Petitions postmarked to USCIS on or after December 22, 2010 must include new Form I-129. Please visit the Artists from Abroad website for updated guidance on completing the new Form I-129 and continue to check the site for continuous updates.
Visit Artists from Abroad
Dworkin Nominated to National Council on the Arts
On December 8, 2010 President Obama announced his intent to nominate Aaron Dworkin to be appointed as a Member of the National Council on the Arts, an advisory body to the National Endowment for the Arts. Mr. Dworkin, who is President and Founder of the Sphinx Organization, was a member of the Obama National Arts Policy Committee and was named a MacArthur fellow in 2005.
Learn More about the National Council of the Arts
The League is a member of the Performing Arts Alliance, a coalition of national performing arts service organizations dedicated to advocating for national policies that recognize, enhance, and foster the contributions the performing arts make to America


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Max Emanuel Cencic
Biography Max Emanuel Cencic
Max Emanuel Cencic
A combination of beautiful, pure tone and passionate delivery has made countertenor Max Emanuel Cencic one of today's most sought after singers. In 2008, the German magazine Opernwelt said "Mr Cencic is blessed with the finest countertenor voice of our day." Since then he has gone from strength to strength through many outstanding performances.
Born in 1976 in Zagreb, Cencic was perhaps destined to become a great countertenor, having first come to public attention aged six singing the Queen of the Night's aria from the Magic Flute. He went on to sing with the Vienna Boys Choir, touring widely and launching his solo career in 1992 as a male soprano, followed in 2001 as a countertenor.
Cencic's interpretation of Nerone in Monteverdi's L'incoronazione di Poppea in Basel was an early milestone in his career, prompting Opernwelt to name him Best New Singer of the Year 2003. Other notable roles included Perseo in Vivaldi's long-forgotten serenata Andromeda Liberata (recorded live by Deutsche Grammophon), the title role in Handel's rarely performed opera Faramondo, and the Herald in the world premiere of Aribert Reimann's Medea at the Vienna State Opera in 2010.
His iconic status among present-day countertenors was reinforced by the sensation he created in the title role of Vivaldi's opera Farnace. Performed during the 2011-12 season in Paris, Lausanne, Amsterdam and Versailles, Cencic and the production achieved even wider success through widespread transmission on mezzoTV.
The crowning glory of Cencic's 2012-13 season was the production, tour and recording of a newly-rediscovered opera, Leonardo Vinci's Artaserse. The whole project was his idea, from the choice of work to the choice of cast. Originally premiered in Rome at a time when women were forbidden from performing on the public stage ‒ in 1730 ‒ this re-creation also featured an all-male cast, including five counter-tenors. Cencic sang the role of Mandane, and was rewarded for both his singing and the production with rave reviews. At the Opéra national de Lorraine, the Theater an der Wien, the Cologne Opera, the Opéra de Lausanne and the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées, every performance received a standing ovation. The production will be seen again between March and May 2014 in Cologne, Versailles and Amsterdam.
In November 2013 Cencic made his debut at the Frankfurt Opera in a production of Gluck's Ezio. Solo appearances in the near future include performances of the programme "Bach meets Pergolesi's Stabat Mater", concerts of opera arias by Mozart and Rossini, and Orff's Carmina Burana. His 2014 schedule also includes appearances in Tamerlano in Versailles, Munich, Cologne, Vienna and Krakow.
Cencic's Decca recording of Handel's Alessandro, released in September 2012, has garnered six major awards, including Opera CD of the Year for 2013 from operaawards.com, and won rave reviews: "Cencic is imperious hot-bloodedness personified" (BBC Music Magazine), "Max Emanuel Cencic commands the music totally, offering some of the most attractive tone of his distinguished recording career . . . " (Opera News).
Cencic turns to works by Johann Adolf Hasse, with the 2014 Decca Classics release of Rokoko, a gripping collection of arias accompanied by George Petrou and Armonia Atenea.
Cencic's extensive CD catalogue has won many awards, including eleven prizes for his Faramondo, four for a recital of Handel arias, and Germany's prestigious Echo Klassik prize for his Duetti album. He sang the role of Valentiniano in the recording of Gluck's opera Ezio, which also won an Echo Klassik prize, as did Leonardo Vinci's Artaserse (all Virgin Classics).
Cencic frequently appears in productions at major opera houses worldwide, including the Vienna State Opera, Bavarian State Opera, Semperoper Dresden, Deutsche Oper Berlin, Teatro Real in Madrid, Barcelona's Gran Teatre del Liceu, Théâtre des Champs-Elysées in Paris, La Monnaie in Brussels, Geneva's Grand Théâtre and Teatro Nacional de São Carlos in Lisbon. In concert he has performed in such major venues as New York's Carnegie Hall, Barbican Centre in London, Amsterdam Concertgebouw, Vienna's Musikverein, Festspielhaus Baden-Baden, Laeiszhalle Hamburg, Palais Garnier in Paris and Tokyo's Opera Nomori, and at festivals in Ludwigsburg, Potsdam, Halle (Händel Festspiele), Spoleto (Due Mondi), Ambronay, Eisenstadt and Dubrovnik. He collaborates on a regular basis with conductors William Christie, René Jacobs, Ottavio Dantone, Diego Fasolis, Jean-Christophe Spinosi, George Petrou, Emmanuelle Haïm, Fabio Biondi and Riccardo Muti.
With his singularly beautiful voice, innately musical approach and ability to truly capture audiences, the future is surely looking bright for Max Emanuel Cencic.


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Civil War in Russia (2)
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The FV 4201 Chieftain was the main battle tank of the United Kingdom during the 1960s and 1970s. It was one of the most advanced tanks of its era, and at the time of its introduction in 1966 had the most powerful main gun and heaviest armour of any tank in the world. The Chieftain also introduced a supine (lying backwards) driver position, enabling a heavily sloped hull with reduced height.
Chieftain Mk.5 - Final production variant, with upgrades to the engine and NBC protection system.
Like its European competitors, the Chieftain found a large export market in the Middle East, but unlike the earlier Centurion, it was not adopted by any other NATO or Commonwealth countries. The Chieftain proved itself capable in combat and able to be upgraded with enhancements both for overall improvement and to meet local requirements. The Chieftain tanks were continuously upgraded until the early 1990s when they were replaced by the Challenger series of tanks whose design was influenced by that of Chieftain. The final Chieftain version used by the British Army until 1995, incorporated "Stillbrew" armour named after Colonel Still and John Brewer from the Military Vehicles and Engineering Establishment (MVEE), the Improved Fire Control System (IFCS) and the Thermal Observation Gunnery Sight (TOGS). The first Chieftain model was introduced in 1967. Chieftains were supplied to at least six countries, including Iran, Kuwait, Oman and Jordan. An agreement for sale of Chieftains to Israel was cancelled by the British Government in 1969. The largest foreign sale was to Iran, which took delivery of 707 Mk-3P and Mk-5P, 125–189 FV-4030-1, 41 ARV and 14 AVLB before the 1979 revolution. Further planned deliveries of the more capable 4030 series were cancelled at that point. The tank's main combat experience was in the Iran–Iraq War of 1980-88.


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I had a great time seeing this vision come to fruition through the collaboration of a great group of friends. I enjoyed exercising my writing skills and hope that the message behind the song it received well. Please enjoy!Continue
Always wanted to visit NC ... I hear it's beautiful. Thanks for the note and have a wonderful weekend.
Welcome to MBC! We are glad to have you here. We look forward connecting more with you here. I'm a Super Mama who has a family friendly blog. I also have a weekday blog hop called Exposure 99%.Come find out for yourself. This weekday blog hop helps you get more dedicated readers and blog followers. Hope you link up weekly. If you have any questions about how to link up do not hesitate to let me know.
Visit me @ One moment in time, I'll sure return the love :-)
Kindly stop by at Giveaway Junkies, on facebook and become a member which you will benefit..
Hope to see you there :-))
Hi there and welcome from The Girlz Korner in upstate New York where you'll find light, witty and rather entertaining articles on every topic imaginable from beauty, health, fashion, parenting, recipes and everything else in between. So if you get a chance to kick back and exhale, if only for a brief moment, we'd love to have you. Hope you enjoy your stay :) http://www.thegirlzkorner.com


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Boston University is launching the public phase of its first full-fledged fund-raising campaign, a billion-dollar effort, with an 82-event alumni extravaganza Saturday, culminating in a Boston Pops concert at Agganis Arena.
In many respects, the public push is well timed. It follows seven years of financial and academic improvements at the school and two years of a "quiet phase" of fund-raising that has already raked in $420 million. On Friday night the school announced a major new donation: $10 million from Dubai-based entrepreneur Rajen Kilachand, on top of the $25 million he has already given, the largest donation in BU's history.
In other respects, the campaign's timing could be better.
The school has local competition for dollars. Harvard University, MIT, and Northeastern University are expected to launch major capital campaigns soon. Brandeis University will launch one next year. Boston College has had one underway since 2008 that has almost hit the billion-dollar mark, and in 2011 Tufts University completed a campaign that brought in $1.2 billion.
Last year was an annus horribilis for BU, which saw a graduate student slain, an accident that killed three students on a study-abroad program, two hazing scandals, and the high-profile arrests of two hockey players on sexual assault charges.
As the new school year was starting, confidential documents from the university's hockey culture task force leaked out with tales of troubling team behavior.
But BU administrators say the hockey debacle is a blip in the history of the school, one they do not expect to overshadow their campaign.
"It hasn't been a hot button for our alumni," said Scott Nichols, BU's senior vice president of development and alumni relations.
True, a few have threatened to withhold gifts. "I am not giving a penny until [hockey coach Jack] Parker is gone and an independent investigation is conducted," Sean Lyons, class of 1993, wrote in a letter to BU president Robert Brown shortly after the recent revelations. But those letters have been a tiny exception, rather than the rule, Nichols said.
Nor do administrators expect the other disturbing events of last year, or the still struggling US economy, to dampen their effort.
Fund-raising during the past year did not dip. The school received gifts from 30,031 alumni, or 4,678 more than in the previous year.
That is a change for a school that, until recently, did not have especially engaged alumni as a whole and had never embarked on a major fund-raising effort.
"The university just wasn't focused in that direction," said Nichols. "We had presidents and boards that didn't see it as a priority."
Five years ago, Nichols added, when Brown and the school's trustees started discussing the possibility of a billion-dollar campaign, "it was seen as, 'What are you people smoking?' "
But the university planted some seed capital. It asked trustees to give, raking in $130 million from them. It ramped up alumni outreach during the past four years, too, almost tripling the number of events held around the world annually.
In particular, it sought out international donors such as Kilachand. That effort was not entirely focused on millionaires and billionaires.
The school's Chinese alumni club has pledged $1 million toward the campaign.
The school also expects to pull in a considerable amount from the 7,000 alumni who are descending on campus this weekend.
On Friday, outside a tent set up for Alumni Weekend registration in Marsh Plaza, several BU graduates remembered their times at the school. A few said they had not heard of the hockey team controversy, including allegations of rampant drinking and boorish sexual escapades. And most others had limited knowledge of the events.
But everyone asked said it would not affect their decision to donate.
Anthony Amato, who graduated with a biology degree in 1983 and a doctorate in dentistry in 1987, said he remembers his time at BU fondly.
Amato said the hockey imbroglio would have no impact on his decision to give. He said he recently gave $2,500 to the dentistry school for the first time in 25 years.
"The hockey thing, I don't know enough about it, but it's not going to determine how I feel about this university at all," he said.
Dennis McNichol, who said he graduated from the School of Management in 1982, said he has donated to the university for five to six years, and that will not change.
"When I was a freshman, my RA said the only thing they can't take from you is your education," said McNichol, 52, of Westchester, Pa. And that education, he said, came from the college he remains loyal to. "I still have BU," he said.
Lisa Best, 54, of Denver graduated from the College of Communicationin 1980. She said she had not heard of allegations against hockey players.
But Best, who said she has donated to her alma mater consistently for five to seven years, said she will continue to contribute regardless of the controversy.
"To me the fact that BU is answering to this, they are looking and changing, shows that they're learning too," she said
BU plans to spend only part of the money it raises on buildings, which are a focus of many other capital campaigns. Much of the funds will go instead to other priorities, such as financial aid, faculty hiring, and research.
Globe correspondent Zachary T. Sampson contributed to this report. Mary Carmichael
can be reached at mary.


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Now it's home is in my den. I love surrounding it with things I find from my treasure-hunts aka flea markets, garage sales & auctions.
It is super easy to make…let me show you how.
Supplies Needed:
- Old Bar Stool (I picked mine up at a garage sale for $1)
- 1″ x 6″ board for the top shelf of the bar stool
- 1″ x 8″ board for the bottom shelf of the bar stool
- 3/4″-1″ thick round table top
- Rustoleum Heirloom White Spray Paint
- Minwax Espresso Stain
- Liquid Nail
- Caulk Gun
1) Spray the bar stool with 2 coats of spray paint. Let dry.
2) Using Minwax, stain the unfinished table top. Let dry.
3) Spray 2 coats of Fast-dry Polyurethane on table top. Let dry.
4) Spread Liquid Nail on the edge of the rungs and on top of the bar stool.
5) Lay the 1″ x 6″ board and the 1″ x 8″ board on top of the adhesive of the rungs.
6) Place the table top on the top of the bar stool.
All that is left is to decorate this newly repurposed bar stool.
Each and everyone of you inspire me and I LOVE to see the work that you've created.


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The steepening yield curve in the U.S. Treasury market should have investors worried, says PIMCO CEO Mohamed El-Erian.
While yields on government securities due in eight years and less are anchored by Federal Reserve monetary policy, bond buyers should be wary of longer-maturity debt, El-Erian, told "Bloomberg Surveillance" radio host Tom Keene on Thursday.
"What we would caution is rather than the level of the rates, the shape of the curve," El-Erian said. "The long end is exposed to a lot more risk."
As the news service notes, the difference in yields between two- and 10-year Treasuries widened to 1.44 percentage points, the most since May. Investors often demand a bigger yield premium on longer-maturity debt to guard against the risk that inflation will erode the value of fixed payments from the securities over time.
"U.S. debt extended losses today as a report showed fewer Americans filed applications for unemployment benefits last week, a sign the labor market may keep improving after employment picked up in July," according to Bloomberg. "Corporate bonds have outperformed government debt as investors sought higher yields after Treasury rates dropped to records last month."
Treasury yields reflect Fed policy, capital flowing out of the Europe amid the euro area's crisis and "a sluggish economy," El-Erian said.
"The bond market is trying right now to reflect many things. All of that tends to anchor the 10-year."


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Who would have thought that one of the coolest things we've seen at CES would be hidden in a 10×10 booth at the very back of the South Hall? Like a diamond in the rough, there sat the PQ Labs iTablet.
They've essentially taken the idea behind the Microsoft Surface and have done it better in every way. It's cheaper, it's gorgeous, and perhaps most notably, it's not a hulking monster.
Two of the most notable features of the Surface are its multitouch capabilities and the availability of a development SDK, both of which PQ Labs has matched (or, in the case of the SDK, plan to match soon). The number of fingers detected by the multitouch sensor is limited only by the individual software designer's desire – the hardware itself supports as many simultaneous prods as you can throw at it.
Contrary to its iCliche name, the iTable runs Windows XP rather than on OS X or some proprietary system. The last bit is good news for developers – if you've already got an app ready to go, you don't need to rewrite it from scratch for compatibility. Just call in the proper APIs for mapping input, and you're good to go. They're pitching this pretty hard as a "big iPhone" (hence the name) – it's probably not the best way to market it (as it's not, you know, a cellphone), but it really does feel similar to the iPhone; the feel of the glass, the way multitouch behaves, it's all very similar.
The iTable product comes in a variety of flavors, depending how complete of a system you're looking for. The cheapest way to get in on the fun is the Multi-Touch G², a 32″ LCD overlay that goes for $2,399. Beyond that is where the "Table" part of the "iTable" name comes in – a few grand more (the $5000-$7000 was thrown around in conversation) nets you a table with the sensors incorporated into the display, and roughly $10,000 gets you the aforementioned table with a beast of a computer pre-configured ready to go. It may seem pricey, but with the 30″ surface going for $12,500, it's relatively cheap.
The company is a recent startup, so they don't quite have the resources to throw around that Microsoft does. As such, they operating without a warehouse, so these things are being built per order and they're currently only selling units to businesses. You know, PQ Labs, CrunchGear is a business – hook it up!


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Troy Wolverton: Microsoft Surface Pro tablet a pricey disappointment
For those eager to embrace the tablet era but who need to keep a foot in the PC past, Microsoft's new Surface Windows 8 Pro would seem to be the perfect device.
It's a tablet that runs a full version of the latest Microsoft Windows operating system. It has a touch screen that takes advantage of Windows' new tile-based interface and can run the new touch-centric Windows applications. And it also has a version of the traditional Windows desktop interface and can run all your old Windows programs.
But instead of being the ideal computer for the post-PC era, the Surface Pro is a pricey, unsatisfactory gadget that's not well suited for any of its potential uses.
The Pro is Microsoft's second tablet. Released last fall, the original Surface device runs on an ARM-based chip and uses a simplified version of Microsoft's operating system called Windows RT.
By contrast, the Surface Pro uses the same kind of Intel chip that powers millions of Windows PCs. That chip allows the new gadget to run the full version of Windows 8, not Windows RT, and to run older Windows programs.
The best thing going for the Surface Pro is its versatility. You can use it not only as a tablet but also as a notebook, if you attach one of its optional covers that has a built-in keyboard and flip out its kickstand. And if you plug in a full keyboard and monitor, you can use it like a desktop computer.
I'm not a fan of Windows 8, but the Surface Pro demonstrates its potential. On the same device, you can switch easily between an interface designed for touch interaction and one designed for a traditional keyboard and pointing device. Depending on your needs or the programs you are running, you can go back and forth between those two interfaces.
Thanks to its Windows heritage, the Surface Pro offers features you can't get on Apple's rival iPad. Multiple users can share the device, each with a separate, password-protected work space. And the Surface Pro will run full versions of Microsoft's popular Office programs.
But the Surface Pro's capabilities and versatility come at a stiff price, both in dollars and in usability.
The device starts at $900, which is $400 more than what Microsoft charges for the original Surface or what you'd pay for the least expensive full-sized iPad. A second Surface Pro model with double the memory goes for $1,000, which would buy you a very nice Windows notebook with a larger touch-screen display.
The Windows operating system the Surface Pro runs gobbles up 35 to 40 gigabytes of the device's storage space, so you have considerably less room than you might think to store apps, documents or pictures. It also gives the Surface Pro far less usable space than other tablets with the same nominal storage capacity.
The Intel processor in the Surface Pro is less power-efficient than the ARM chips in the original Surface or the iPad. In my tests, the device lasted far less than a full day on a charge.
The chip also generates a lot more heat than ARM processors, requiring the Surface Pro to have a pair of fans to keep it cool. Despite that, it felt hot to the touch when I was using it. And the fans make for a heavier and bulkier machine than the typical tablet. The Surface Pro weighs in at about 2 pounds, which is more than a half-pound heavier than the full iPad. Compared to other tablets, the Surface Pro feels like a brick.
It's even less satisfying as a tablet because of a dearth of available apps. While you can find Netflix and Skype in the Windows app store, you won't find other popular iPad apps, such as Pandora or Flipboard. In fact, only one of the top 10 free or paid apps for the iPad were available in the Windows store, although you could find knockoffs for another two.
But the Surface Pro is also unsatisfying as a notebook. The covers with the built-in keyboards aren't sturdy enough to use on your lap, and the device's kickstand is inflexible, so unlike a typical laptop, you can't tilt the Surface Pro's screen to adjust your viewing angle. And at 10.6 inches, the Surface Pro's display is significantly smaller than your average laptop, giving you less real estate to work in.
So while the Surface Pro may sound like an ideal device, I found it to be much less than that.
-Likes: Versatile device can be used as a tablet, notebook or desktop computer; supports multiple user accounts; runs the full version of Office and other Windows programs; built-in kickstand supports device without need of separate cover.
-Dislikes: Pricey; heavy and bulky compared with other tablets; hot to the touch when running; offers much less usable storage capacity than comparable tablets; no version available with a built-in cellular radio; keyboard covers too flimsy to use on lap; kickstand angle can't be adjusted.
-Specs: 10.6-inch, 1920 x 1080 screen; Intel Core i5 processor; 720p front and rear cameras.
-Price: $900 for 64 gigabyte model; $1,000 for 128 GB version
-Web: www.microsoft.com
Troy Wolverton is a technology columnist for the San Jose Mercury News. Reach him at firstname.lastname@example.com or follow him on Twitter @troywolv.
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(c)2013 San Jose Mercury News (San Jose, Calif.)
Distributed by MCT Information Services


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Milken, Michael Robert
Milken, Michael Robert mĭl´kən [key], 1946–, American financial executive, b. Van Nuys, Calif. Nicknamed the
junk bond king,he was an executive at Drexel Burnham Lambert, Inc., where he transformed corporate takeovers and financing by the use of high-yield junk bonds . At the height of his success in the 1980s, Milken's personal wealth was legend; according to the government, Drexel paid Milken $296 million in 1986 and $550 million in 1987. In 1989 a federal grand jury indicted Milken for violations of federal securities and racketeering laws. He pled guilty to securities fraud and related charges in 1990, and the government dropped the more serious charges of insider trading and racketeering. Milken was fined and sentenced to prison for ten years; in 1991 his sentence was reduced to two years plus three years probation. Barred from the securities business for life, Milken worked as a strategic business consultant after his release from prison. The Securities and Exchange Commission charged that this work was a violation of his probation, and in 1998 Milken settled with the SEC and paid the government $42 million in fees that he had earned plus interest. Milken, who had prostate cancer, established (1993) a foundation to underwrite a search for its cure; he is also a founder (1996) of Knowledge Universe, an educational services company.
See studies by C. Bruck (upd. ed. 1989), F. Bailey (1992), J. Kornbluth (1992), B. J. Stein (1992), M. Zey (1993), and D. Fischel (1995).
The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2012, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.
See more Encyclopedia articles on: Business Leaders


text: Memory and storage are two crucial components of any system as these are responsible for saving apps, documents, stream content, visualize the game. SSDs or solid state drives are responsible for storing apps and significantly faster and reliable than HDD. Using best internal SSDs, system will boot in seconds and loading, saving and transferring of the file would be with the blink of an eye. Best internal SSD can be installed in laptop, desktop PC, Mac system or workstation to make them extremely energy-efficient. Variety of best cheap SSDs from…Read More


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Following a successful range of Andy Warhol skate decks, Alien Workshop is now partnering with artist Keith Haring for another set of art-minded skateboards. The first release comprises 10 different designs, each one paired up with a different pro skater from the Alien team. This Agenda Long Beach spotting will definitely something to look forward to for art fans and skaters alike.
Photography: Highsnobiety.com


text: Job Discussion Forums :: View topic - List of Schools in Costa Rica Get TEFL Certified & Start Your Adventure Today! Job Discussion Forums"The Internet's Meeting Place for ESL/EFL Students and Teachers from Around the World!" FAQ Search Memberlist Usergroups Register Profile Log in to check your private messages Log in List of Schools in Costa Rica Goto page 1, 2 Next Job Discussion Forums Forum Index -> Costa Rica View previous topic :: View next topic Author Message John HallJoined: 16 Mar 2004Posts: 452Location: San Jose, Costa Rica Posted: Tue Jan 23, 2007 5:59 pm Post subject: List of Schools in Costa Rica Here is a list of schools in Costa Rica, originally posted by NatureGirl321 on the General Latin America Forum back in 2003. I'm sure quite a bit of the information is probably out-of-date now, but it might be a good source to start with for an English-teaching job search for C.R. May I suggest that we keep this thread active by replying to it in order to update the info about these places and any other schools worth mentioning? COSTA RICA List of schools. http://www.strayreality.com/dir_education.htm (NadineD) Heredia. Golden Valley School. [email protected] Heredia. Butler Academy. [email protected] Heredia. Intercultura. www.spanish-intercultura.com Heredia, Butler Academy Christian Larsen, Academic Director [email protected]. +506 237-9736 / 375-3102 (mobile) Heredia. Sarapiqui Conservation Learning Center. Ing. Paula Fernández P., Assistant Director (pollitatica) Chilamate de Sarapiqui Tel: 506.766.52.12 Telefax: 506.766.6482 www.learningcentercostarica.org [email protected] *Volunteer position* Heredia. Golden Valley School. (BA in Ed, 2 years experience, [email protected] Telfax 506-268-6248 Atenas. Su Espacio (pollitatica) www.suespacio.org *Volunteer position* Linda Vista, Effortless English (pollitatica) [email protected] *Volunteer* Guadalupe and San Jose, New Learning Center, Flor Rojas (pollitatica) [email protected] Possibility of receiving work permit, bring police report from your municipality. San Jose. Idioma Internacional. www.idiomacr.com [email protected] San Jose. Whittemore de Costa Rica (Business English. Minimum uni degree, TEFL cert and 2 years experience. $6-7 an hour. 8-20 hours per week.) http://www.reachstars.bravehost.com/ [email protected] San Jose. Instituto Britanico www.institutobritanico.co.cr/ing/index.html [email protected]. [email protected] San Jose. Universidad Latinoamerica de Ciencia y Technologia, John Brown. http://www.ulacit.ac.cr [email protected] (College degree + TEFL cert preferred. Up to one year contract only) San Jose. English to Go Ltda, George C. Thiess (Native speaker with university degree and TEFL cert) [email protected] Back to top John HallJoined: 16 Mar 2004Posts: 452Location: San Jose, Costa Rica Posted: Tue Jan 23, 2007 6:07 pm Post subject: Another list of school in Costa Rica For an even longer list of schools with information up to 2005, check out this link: http://costaricaclassroom.blogspot.com Look for the entry for January 15, 2007. Back to top MiyazakiJoined: 12 Jul 2005Posts: 635Location: My Father's Yacht Posted: Sat Feb 03, 2007 4:31 am Post subject: Thanks, John Hall! Back to top LaRocheJoined: 13 Feb 2007Posts: 9Location: Illinois, USA Posted: Wed Feb 14, 2007 11:48 pm Post subject: The list of schools provided by John Hall, posted on the "Costa Rica Classroom" blog has been invaluable to me in my search for ESL opportunities in Costa Rica. Thank you! I am particularly interested in schools outside of San Jose. Are they really that far and few between? Does anyone know of any good private language schools on or near either coast? I have found tons of Spanish Language schools (for foreigners) in these areas, but hardly any schools of English. Back to top JApplebyJoined: 03 Oct 2006Posts: 32 Posted: Thu Feb 15, 2007 9:11 pm Post subject: LaRoche, are you in Costa Rica now looking for schools, or are you searching online? I hope to find a school in Alajuela or Heredia, and I only found a few schools online in those places, although I would think there would be more. I did get e-mails back from Victory Institute and Butler Academy (both in Heredia) asking me to stop in when I get to Costa Rica, so try looking up those and see what you think. Back to top LaRocheJoined: 13 Feb 2007Posts: 9Location: Illinois, USA Posted: Thu Feb 15, 2007 11:43 pm Post subject: Hi JAppleby, I'm in the US right now...searching on-line. I'm trying to set up some interviews before going to Costa Rica in March. I'll be in CR for 2 weeks and hope to secure employment while there. If everything goes well, I'd like to return to Costa Rica soon afterwards and begin teaching by May 1. Are you planning a job-search trip to CR as well? When are you looking to move there? I have heard good things about Heredia. While it isn't the beach, I think (for me personally since I don't do well with big cities) it would be more livable than SJ. I've also contacted Butler. I haven't heard about Victory, but I'll check it out. Thanks for the tip! Good luck with your search Back to top John HallJoined: 16 Mar 2004Posts: 452Location: San Jose, Costa Rica Posted: Thu Feb 15, 2007 11:58 pm Post subject: I would say that Heredia now is just an extention of San Jose. Nevertheless, some people consider it to be more livable than SJ. Just an update about ULACIT. The Director there now is Jimmy Hernandez, not John Brown. Jimmy's email is [email protected] Hiring usually only occurs before the new semesters in January, May, and September. Back to top JApplebyJoined: 03 Oct 2006Posts: 32 Posted: Fri Feb 16, 2007 1:20 am Post subject: LaRoche, I'm hoping to go down to Costa Rica March 15 (although it may be a couple weeks after that, depending on when I can get my school stuff wrapped up). I have a place to stay when I get there, the host family that I lived with three summers ago, and they have said I can stay as long as I need to. So I'm just going to see if I can find a job once I get down there and start as soon as I can. I'm leaning toward Heredia because it's smaller, and it's closer to Alajuela (where my host family lives) than San Jose. Good luck! By the way, here's the website for Victory Institute: http://victoryinstitute.crtimes.com/ I don't know much more about it than that; here's what it said in the e-mail reply I got: We do charge our students, but since our School is not a high school or University the courses are called free courses since students don´t obtain a college degree after finishing. Students pay a low fee and study 2 or 3 hours a week, just to learn English as a Second language. We pay our teachers an Ok amount, not too much not too little. Ok for Costaricans. Back to top John HallJoined: 16 Mar 2004Posts: 452Location: San Jose, Costa Rica Posted: Fri Feb 16, 2007 1:35 am Post subject: Okay for Costa Ricans usually means not good for foreigners! Back to top LaRocheJoined: 13 Feb 2007Posts: 9Location: Illinois, USA Posted: Fri Feb 16, 2007 2:24 am Post subject: Staying with your host family sounds like a nice set-up. Maybe you can find a language school in Alajuela. I think I remember seeing a school or 2 there while surfing the internet. (Just looked at my spreadsheet though and don't have any schools on my list in Alajuela - or maybe I ruled them out and they never made it to the spreadsheet!) Wrapping up school stuff? Are you teaching now? I'm definitely excited for my trip to CR to check out schools and get a feel for the country and culture. I had high hopes for Heredia and I'm a bit disappointed that it's turned into an 'extension' of SJ. I had heard that it was a quaint and beautiful colonial town. Guess I'll have to see for myself. Back to top JApplebyJoined: 03 Oct 2006Posts: 32 Posted: Fri Feb 16, 2007 1:59 pm Post subject: I'm finishing up my Master of Arts in Education--I did my student teaching last semester, and now I'm writing the research paper that goes with it. It's hard to do when all I can think about is Costa Rica and the fact that it's 15 degrees out here in St. Louis! Back to top John HallJoined: 16 Mar 2004Posts: 452Location: San Jose, Costa Rica Posted: Wed Mar 21, 2007 11:06 pm Post subject: Nobody has anything more to add to the list? Back to top OleLarssenJoined: 26 Apr 2006Posts: 337 Posted: Thu Mar 22, 2007 4:56 pm Post subject: It's New Learning Academy, not Center. And the person you'll be talking to there is Mario, not Flor. :) I'll put up more when I can find it.. Back to top John HallJoined: 16 Mar 2004Posts: 452Location: San Jose, Costa Rica Posted: Wed Apr 25, 2007 12:51 am Post subject: Thanks Ole, Have you or anyone else got any more information worth posting on this thread about schools in CR? Back to top John HallJoined: 16 Mar 2004Posts: 452Location: San Jose, Costa Rica Posted: Thu Jun 14, 2007 5:29 pm Post subject: John Hall wrote: Have you or anyone else got any more information worth posting on this thread about schools in CR? Just bumping this thread up again. Somebody must have something that they can say about a school that they are working at now... Back to top Display posts from previous: All Posts1 Day7 Days2 Weeks1 Month3 Months6 Months1 Year Oldest FirstNewest First Job Discussion Forums Forum Index -> Costa Rica All times are GMTGoto page 1, 2 Next Page 1 of 2 Jump to: Select a forum Where to Begin----------------General DiscussionNewbie ForumCurrent Events ForumTechnology ForumOnline Teaching Forum Africa Forums----------------General Africa Forum Asia Forums----------------CambodiaChina (Job-related Posts Only)China (Off-Topic)Hong KongIndiaIndonesiaJapanMalaysiaPhilippinesSingaporeTaiwanThailandGeneral Asia ForumVietnam Caribbean Forums----------------General Caribbean Forum Europe Forums----------------Czech RepublicFranceGermanyGreeceItalyMacedonia and the BalkansPolandRomaniaRussia & C.I.S.SpainTurkeyUkraineUnited KingdomGeneral Europe Forum Latin America Forums----------------ArgentinaBrazilChileColombiaCosta RicaMexicoMexico (off-topic)PeruGeneral Latin America Forum The Middle East Forums----------------BahrainEgyptIsraelKuwaitOmanQatarSaudi ArabiaUnited Arab EmiratesGeneral Middle East Forum North America Forums----------------General North America Forum Oceania----------------Australia/New Zealand You cannot post new topics in this forumYou cannot reply to topics in this forumYou cannot edit your posts in this forumYou cannot delete your posts in this forumYou cannot vote in polls in this forum This page is maintained by the one and only Dave Sperling. 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Over two-thirds of investors with assets in target-date funds feel more secure about their retirement than those who are not invested in TDFs, a report released Tuesday by ING U.S. found, and nearly three-quarters say they are confident that they're making good investment decisions.
At the end of December 2011, TDF assets totaled $381 billion, according to Strategic Insight. McKinsey & Co. projected in 2010 that by 2015, TDFs would account for between 35% and 40% of all DC plan assets.
The report, "Participant Preferences in Target-Date Funds: Examining Perceptions and Expectations Among Target-Date Users and Non-Users," found 80% of TDF investors say they want funds that provide better protection against investment losses in the years immediately prior to and during retirement. Two-thirds of investors who did not have a TDF agreed. Among non-users, 15% say they prefer investments with a strong potential for gain, but 19% reported no preference.
TDF users and nonusers alike expressed an interest in funds that offered guaranteed income options. Eighty-eight percent of TDF users and 68% of nonusers expressed an interest in products with such features.
Respondents were almost equally interested in funds that offer exposure to multiple asset classes and those that utilize multiple managers. "Given this participant preference for diversification, it's important for plan sponsors to determine that their target-date offering, which is designed to be a comprehensive single-portfolio solution, actually provides adequate diversification," according to the report.
The survey also endeavored to determine how well participants understand target-date funds. The survey found just over half of TDF users understood that their asset allocation would become more conservative over time and 36% knew what a glide path was. "Retirement professionals should keep in mind that while target-date funds have been widely examined within the investment community, participants are not as well-versed in the features and benefits of TDFs," according to the report.
Despite participants' eagerness to invest in target-date funds, the products took a beating in 2011. A report from Ibbotson released Jan. 23 found that TDFs returned just 6.8% in the fourth quarter of 2011, compared with 11.8% for the S&P 500 Index. For all of 2011, the average TDF lost 1.6%.
Another report, this time from SmartMoney, which analyzed data from Morningstar, found that the average fund four years out from its target date fell 0.4% in 2011. By comparison, the S&P 500 gained 2% and the Barclays Capital Aggregate Bond Index gained 8%.
ING Investment Management acknowledges that in 2011, the S&P 500 and Barclays Capital Aggregate Bond indexes were two of the best performing benchmarks in 2011, but notes that other indexes, such as MSCI EAFE, MSCI Emerging Markets and Russell 2000, underperformed the average target-date manager over this same time period.
Furthermore, according to ING, in 2010 and 2009, the Barclays Capital Aggregate Bond and S&P 500 were two of the weaker performing indices.
"Over short periods of time, we believe that it is difficult to judge the diversification benefits that target date funds provide through investments in a broad range of equity and bond sub asset classes, relative to a more concentrated approach (i.e. only investing in S&P 500)," Susan Viston, vice president and senior portfolio specialist for ING Investment Management, told AdvisorOne. "Over longer periods of time, we believe broad diversification should lead to higher risk adjusted returns relative to a more concentrated approach. That being said, there are significant differences between Target Date managers in terms of philosophy and approach that can lead to wide variations in performance and risk exposure. Therefore, we would recommend that participants review a target date manager's approach to asset allocation to make sure it is consistent with their risk tolerance and retirement objectives."
The ING survey was conducted online among 540 defined-contribution participants in September 2011 by Synovate for ING Investment Management U.S. and the ING Retirement Research Institute.


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BoA Matt made an interesting point in the comments section the other day — Olli Jokinen's play has a habit of making certain Flames fans nostalgic about Matthew Lombardi, but then they tend to miss him a lot less when they see the speedy Phoenix centreman (it's now an international law that the word "speedy" must be used in any story or blog entry about Lombardi) do not much of anything in head-to-head action with his former club.
And so it was Thursday as Lombardi could manage no more than one shot in 16:25 of ice time in the Coyotes' victory over the Flames (although it's only fair to note that Lombardi had a goal called back because of a hasty whistle and won faceoffs at a 69.2 per cent clip compared to 33.3 for Jokinen).
Lombardi has received more ice time and better quality ice time since his trade to the Coyotes and accordingly has slightly elevated his point-scoring rate, but the simple truth of the matter is that the lad is 27 now and that he'll never be able to coordinate the speed of his feet, hands and mind to be the big-time scorer he's shown flashes of being at times in his career. In fact, many Flames fans had already stopped thinking of him as a legitimate top six forward candidate towards the end of his Calgary stint and had started appreciating him for his not insignificant defensive skills and penalty-killing work.
There certainly can't be much doubt that Lombardi has at the very least validated the third-round selection the Flames used to pick Lombardi in 2002 when the Victoriaville Tigres star re-entered the draft after failing to come to terms with Edmonton, who had used a seventh-round pick on Lombardi in 2000. Only four players taken with 50 selections of Lombardi in his redraft year have played at least 100 games in the NHL and only one — Detroit's Valtteri Filppula — has an argument about being a better choice (for the record, the others are Tom Gilbert, Cam Janssen and Lasse Pirjeta).
The other thing that immediately leaps to mind about that 2002 draft is that while the Flames were snagging former Oilers pick Lombardi, Edmonton was scooping up former Flames draftee Jarret Stoll. It's interesting how many similarities there have been in the players' career path — drafted by one Alberta and eventually redrafted and signed by the other, progression slowed by concussion issues, traded to a Pacific Division team . . . If Lombardi had ever been romantically linked with the ex of a shaggy-haired British crooner, it would be downright creepy.
Here's how things have played out:
Originally drafted:
Stoll — 2nd round, 46th overall by Calgary in 2000
Lombardi — 7th round, 215th overall by Edmonton in 2000
Other options (2000):
Instead of Stoll, the Flames could have drafted — Andreas Lilja (54th), Antoine Vermette (55th), Paul Martin (62nd)
Instead of Lombardi, the Oilers could have drafted — Paul Gaustad (220th), Antti Miettinen (224th), Lubomir Sekeras (232nd)
Stoll — 2nd round, 36th overall by Edmonton in 2002 (moved up 10 picks)
Lombardi — 3rd round, 90th overall by Calgary in 2002 (up 125 picks)
Other options (2002):
Instead of Stoll, the Oilers could have drafted — Trevor Daley (43rd), Matt Greene (44th, oh wait . . .), Duncan Keith (54th)
Instead of Lombardi, the Flames could have drafted — Valtteri Filppula (95th), Cam Janssen (117th), Tom Gilbert (129th)
Career totals to date:
Stoll — 387 GP, 84-142-226, minus-17, 320 PIM, 38 PPG, 64 PPA, 6 SHG
Lombardi — 390 GP, 75-124-199, plus-17, 255 PIM, 15 PPG, 32 PPA, 12 SHG
Best season:
Stoll — 2005-06 w/Oilers (82 22-46-68, plus-4)
Lombardi — 2006-07 w/Flames (81 20-26-46, plus-10)
Playoff stats:
Stoll — 24 GP 4-6-10
Lombardi — 33 GP 2-8-10
Men's world championships:
Stoll — N/A
Lombardi — Played for Canada in 2007, 2009 (18 GP, 8-8-16)


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Moni Vangolen will be sharing with us her presence in satsang in Yaletown. Please visit: http://www.meetup.com/Eckhart-Tolle-non-duality-joyful-living-group-satsang/events/43388242/ for more information.
Quoting Eckhart Tolle: "Within the still sacred space that Moni provides, it is easy to find the inner stillness that is the essence of who you are."
Moni sites:
For the past nine and a half years, Moni has been sharing presence through her weekly meetings in Vancouver, where she lives, and throughout North America & Europe. Her gatherings are simply a celebration of being. We meet as our essential nature, beingness, and deeply honour and explore this that we all are. She invites you to join her in this profound pure presence.