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Sunday, May 01, 2011 - Tomas & Jakub - Brothers Shoot
Tomas & Jakub - Broke Czech Brothers Shoot
A wonderful Broke Czech Brothers Shoot with Tomas and Jakub Cech. Jakub had already done some shoots when he brought his brother into casting. They told us that they both needed money, so it seemed right and proper to invite them both into the studio for a Broke Czech Brothers shoot.They weren't too happy at the prospect which we only informed them about when they arrived in the studio. But once they got over the shock, the both got very nice stiffies. The guys start off undressing each other and then get some oil and takes turns in oiling each other. Then they massage each others bodies, first Jakub massages Tomas and then the roles are reversed. When Tomas starts to play with Jakub he gets very hard. Finally they sit on the couch and jack each other, before giving us the money shots. It is great to see brothers who are happy to help each other out in this 60 minute video.
... more about Tomas & Jakub - Brothers Shoot further in this newsletter
Our Coming Soon Set Preview
Honza Biskal is aged 19 and lives in the city of Liberec. He works in a small business and enjoys going to the gym in his spare time. Honza is a very handsome guy, and he has a good body too, obviously his time in the gym has worked for him. In this erotic solo Honza treats us to a nice slow, sensuous build up to be naked, with his dick hard as it comes out of his jeans. He also gives us a great view of his nice hairy hole as he jacks himself. Then after standing, to let us get the full effect of his body, and jacking a while he gets down to the business of a pop-shot which, when delivered, is very good indeed. We would love to do some duos with Honza, but so far we have only managed to persuade him to come in for a wrestling shoot.
Latest Updates Trailer
William Higgins Atelier Backstage Vlog
William Higgins Newsletter Text
We're enjoying some wonderful weather in Prague. We had quite a thunderstorm last night, but today has been lovely. Aida has been at the farm for the weekend. So, I've just been working away here.
I have some important announcements to make: This will be our FINAL SUNDAY NEWSLETTER. For a long time, I've been wanting to change the days of the Newsletter and was told by the IT department we should not do it, until the New Site was on line. Well, the New Site is on line and from today we're change the Newsletter dates to Tuesday's and Fridays. There are a couple of reasons for this: It's been our experience that if something is going to break down, it will break down at Newsletter time, and it seems mostly likely to happen on the larger Sunday Newsletter. Each year it becomes more difficult to locate our tech people to come in and fix problems on the weekends. By changing to Fridays, if something breaks down, we can contact the tech folks BEFORE they leave town for weekends. Second, I just think it will be nicer to publish the big Newsletter of the week on Fridays so that viewers will have the entire weekend to browse it at their leisure. Plus, with the New Site we are doing daily updates. You can come in each day and see what is new. This sort of makes me redundant. My Newsletter, after all these years, becomes a sort of twice-weekly digests. I'm perfectly happy with this arrangement so our members will new material to enjoy on a daily basis.
Next, I'm afraid I misspoke in answer to a question, I think it was Thursday, in the Prague Buddies Chat Room. The data bases of the archives, with over 10,000 sets, will not be integrated with the New Site. Admittedly, this will involve a small inconvenience for you. When you do a search, it will sometimes be necessary to do it twice, once on the New Site, and once in the Archive Site. Of course, this won't be necessary with new models as they will only be listed on the New Site. When I brought this up with the IT department, I was told, that integrating the two search engines would involve a delay in launching the new site by up to or more than a year. And the cost would be bone crushing. And, as a kicker, we might never be able to integrate the two search engines. I can tell you, I'd much rather invest the tens and tens and tens of thousands of dollars that would be necessary to develop in integrated search function in advancement of the site and shooting quality material. I apologize for this misunderstanding on my part.
Personally, I love the new site. It was something we had to do, as the critics were just killing us on the outmoded design of our old site.
Yesterday, they had the annual bicycle race that runs in front of Drakes and our studios. As is my practice, I covered it this year. They had to change the route slightly because they had narrowed the intersection in front of our building. The racers could not safely negotiate the new corner. They just made the course longer, and the turn is not in front of the Savoy (for those of you who know Prague) instead of our building. The Dutchman Marc is in town, and I must admit he got the best picture this year with his still camera. I'd also like to add, for a few years, the guys seemed to be switching to black riding pants, which showed much less basket. Now modesty is out again, with bright red and blue pants, which reveal all. Thank you very much.
Lets, see, on Friday we filmed perhaps the hardest fought Nude Submission Wrestling match we've promoted. The guys really went after each other. And it must be said, it got a little bit too dirty. Fortunately, there were no serious injuries.
With that I'll get down to business.
his is my first Newsletter on the totally redesigned site. I'm just sort of feeling my way. But I'll do my best.
I have an important announcement: With the launch of the New Site, we are going to change the dates of the Newsletter. This is our last Sunday Newsletter. Since now, the Newsletter dates are different. Starting this week, we'll be publishing the Newsletter on Tuesday and Friday. The main reason for this: By publishing on Friday, Members will have all weekend to browse the Newsletter, not just Sunday evening. Plus, it's good to keep in mind, from now on you don't have to wait for the Newsletters. The New Site will be updated daily. So, you can check daily for each update. We'll just consolidate the updates into twice weekly Newsletters. Remember that all you need to do to see the latest sets or castings is to click either the "Updates" or "Castings" in the top menu. All sets on our new website are arranged chronologically from the newest sets on the first page. Please use the calendar to browse for older sets or just simply keep clicking "Next 20 Sets" to "time travel" to the past ;-). For direct access to any set posted in this newsletter just click the "OPEN SET WINDOW LINK", this link will take you onto set page where you have a short set video preview, all video downloads links, photo zip download links and links to photo galleries as well.
Please write me with your impressions of the new site. If you have problems, let us know about them also and we'll fix them ASAP.
Just a little reminder that the Latest Updates page which appears when you access the site shows the latest sets to come online. However that doesn`t include the castings. For the latest castings to come online you can click CASTINGS at the top of the page.
MESSAGE ABOUT LINKS TO THE OLD WH WEBSITE - WILLIAMHIGGINS.com ARCHIVES:
Please be aware that the link www.williamhiggins.com takes you to this brand new website now. If you bookmarked our old website in the past and you want to keep the bookmark as a shortest way to access the old WH website you need to change the link in the bookmark to:
You do not need to remember this link, you can conveniently get to the old WH Website - WilliamHiggins.com Archives anytime you need through the "WH 2001-2010" in the top menu of the new WilliamHiggins.com website.
Today's Weather in Prague
CzechGuysNextDoor.com Latest Updates
Health Warning Strong: Today we have a CFNM with Jarda Omacka & Denis Dobro and also two very good solo shoots.
Enter www.CzechGuysNextDoor.com HERE
ENTER www.CzechGuysNextDoor.cz Newsletter Archives
BurnDVD.tv Website Latest Updates
Starting today you can download our videos in Full HD quality 1920x1080px!
Please remember that most of the videos available on BurnDVD are easily able to be downloaded with a single link, but some of the very large files, such as the newsletter DVDs have to be split into three separate links, as detailed below.
The videos with very large file sizes are now split into more than one part, using a program called HJSplit. If you wish to buy one of these larger videos to Burn to DVD, you will receive a link for file and then it is a simple process to join the downloaded files together to make the .iso file for Burning to DVD.
You can see all the available videos at www.burndvd.tv
Before downloading any videos to burn to DVD I advise you to read the BURNDVD Manual, which explains how you can burn the file to DVD. The file is an ISO file which contains all the required DVD files. The process for burning to DVD is fully explained.
The BurnDVD manual is easy to follow, with a step by step guide. Burning a DVD is easy to do, though it is helpful if you have previously burned DVDs or CDs.
The manual can be viewed here: BURNDVD Manual
Anyone who has any problems understanding the manual, or burning their download to DVD, or indeed any questions about this service please email firstname.lastname@example.com . Geoff will be happy to assist you.
You can view all the available downloads at www.burndvd.tv, by clicking the on the categories. A direct link to the latest files available will be published in each newsletter.
Our Latest Sets at www.BurnDVD.tv
Today we are featuring a Brothers Duo - Jakub & Tomas Cech , a fabulous fucking duo Matej Toman and Jan Kedlubna , a very tempting Submission Wrestling Nude - Sebastian Mecta vs. Honza Biskal and finaly also a CFNM - Denis Dobro and Jarda Omacka
The direct link to "Brothers - Jakub & Tomas Cech"
The direct link to "Matej Toman & Jan Kedlubna"
The direct link to "Wrestle - Sebastian Mecta vs. Honza Biskal"
The direct link to "CFNM - Denis Dobro & Jarda Omacka"
Special Offer for William Higgins Newsletter Readers
William Higgins Newsletter readers are able to obtain a discount on the price of BURNDVD downloads by using the coupons that we will be publishing in each Members Newsletter. The coupon published in each newsletter will be valid for a period of 7 days.
Copy today's coupon code here: 65r4sh9
Our Partners:
PLEASE PROCEED TO THE NEXT PAGE FOR THE LATEST WilliamHiggins.com UPDATES


text:
News Release
NASD, NFA Announce Joint Launch of Web-based Proficiency Training for Security Futures Products
Washington, DC and Chicago, IL — NASD and the National Futures Association (NFA) today announced that they have launched a Web-based training program for registered securities and futures representatives who plan to sell security futures products to their customers. The program will be available on both organizations' Web sites beginning on Tuesday, September 3, and will be offered at no charge.
The Commodity Futures Modernization Act of 2000 (CFMA) lifted the ban on single stock futures and narrow-based security indices (security futures). The CFMA also required NASD and NFA to adopt proficiency requirements related to these new products. Over the past several months, both organizations have developed similar rules to meet the CFMA's requirements. These rules state that any currently registered securities or futures professionals who intend to engage in a securities futures business must complete a training program covering security futures. NASD, NFA, and other industry organizations have developed a course content outline for such training programs.
In an effort to provide a convenient and efficient method for firms to provide their employees with the necessary training, NASD and NFA, in partnership with the Institute for Financial Markets (IFM), have developed a Web-based training program. The training program consists of five modules: 1) stocks and stock options, 2) futures contracts, 3) security futures products, 4) regulatory requirements for security futures, and 5) supervision of the offer and sale of security futures. The training program will introduce securities professionals to basic futures concepts and terminology, and futures professionals to basic securities concepts and terminology. The training program devotes two modules to security futures products. The first explains these new products, and the second discusses the new regulatory framework. The last module addresses issues relevant for supervisory personnel.
Individuals registered only with NFA should access the program through NFA's Web site (www.nfa.futures.org), while those who are registered to sell securities should access the training through NASD's Web site (www.nasd.com). Once the training is completed, the individual can print off a certificate of completion that can be copied and given to the firm for its files. In addition, NASD and NFA will electronically capture information about a registrant's completion of the course. This information will be available to member firms and eventually tied into the Central Registration Depository (CRD) and into NFA's Background Affiliation Status Information Center (BASIC).
"It is not only a regulatory requirement, but also sound business practice for firms and registered representatives to have a fundamental understanding of all of the financial products they sell, including security futures. This training program will facilitate entry into this new line of business while at the same time fostering our goal of investor protection," said Mary L. Schapiro, NASD President of Regulatory Policy and Oversight and Vice Chairman.
NASD is the leading private-sector provider of financial regulatory services, dedicated to bringing integrity to the markets and confidence to investors through effective and efficient regulation and complementary compliance and technology-based services. NASD touches virtually every aspect of the securities business — from registering and educating all industry participants, to examining securities firms, enforcing both NASD rules and the federal securities laws, and administering the largest dispute resolution forum for investors and member firms. For more information please visit www.nasd.com.

subset: commoncrawl


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By Sekou Smith, NBA.com
VIDEO: Brent Barry, Dennis Scott and Matt Winer examine the Pacers' fall
HANG TIME HEADQUARTERS — We'll turn over our weekly spot here to NBA TV research ace Kevin Cottrell, who lays out the problem with the reeling Indiana Pacers in the simplest of terms:
They. Can't. Score.
Here's Cottrell:
Entering the season, the Indiana Pacers were pegged as the biggest threat to dethrone the defending champion Miami Heat. Coming off a disappointing Game 7 loss in the Eastern Conference finals, the Pacers made their ultimate goal clear.
"Our focus is to be getting Game 7 on our home court," David West told reporters at Pacers Media Day.
If home court was goal 1A, enhancing their ability to light up a scoreboard should have been 1B for the Pacers. Heading into Monday night's matchup with the West leading San Antonio Spurs, Indy posted a 33-4 record at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. But the Pacers are averaging only 97.0 points a game, which ranks 23rd in the league.
Many believe the Pacers' stingy defense is more than enough to win a title, but the numbers say otherwise. In the Pacers' five games prior to hosting the Spurs, they held opponents to 87.0 points a game. But the Pacers have failed to score 80 points in five of their last six games. According to Elias Sports Bureau, the last team to do so was the 2011-12 Charlotte Bobcats, who set the NBA record for lowest winning percentage in a season (7-59).
So what's the issue? Pacers "Do-It-All" Forward Paul George is the team's only legitimate scoring threat. George is averaging a career high 21.7 points a game, a whopping 7.6 points more than the second leading scorer, Lance Stephenson (14.1). Without a true 1-2 scoring punch, George's offensive efficiency directly affects the Pacers' win-loss column. The Pacers started the season 16-1 and George entered the MVP discussion.
Since then, George (and the Pacers' production) has been on a steady decline month-to-month (see chart below).
Month PPG FG% 3FG% Indy record Oct 28.0 48-6 41-2 2-0 Nov 23.0 47.2 40.3 13-1 Dec 24.1 46.8 39.4 10-4 Jan 21.3 41.0 31.5 10-5 Feb 21.0 40.1 39.5 9-3 March 18.7 37.2 29.7 8-10 Total 21.7 42.5 36.0 52-23
Placing all the blame on George's jump shot may not be fair, but it is accurate. Take a look at the last five NBA Champions (below). It's no coincidence that all five scored at high clip. Furthermore, each team featured potent scorers: LeBron James, Dirk Nowitzki and Kobe Bryant. In the event one of the three aforementioned struggled on a given night, Dwyane Wade, Jason Terry and Pau Gasol could pick up the scoring load.
While some believe defense wins championships, the best teams, especially recently, always have big-scoring offenses.
- 2012-13: Heat 102.9 (5)
- 2011-12: Heat 98.5 (7)
- 2010-11: Mavericks 100.2 (11)
- 2009-10: Lakers 101.7 (12)
- 2008-09: Lakers 106.9 (3)
If the Pacers' lack of scoring is their biggest hurdle, their ability to win on the road is a close second. After a 40-12 start, Indiana is 12-11 since the All-Star Break. Nine of the 11 losses have come away from the Fieldhouse. Combine their road woes with the fact that they've been held to 92.7 points a game since the mid-season break and you'll find a recipe for an early playoff exit.
The way things are shaping up, the Pacers will likely face the Bulls and/or Heat in an attempt to win the East. Indiana is a combined 0-3 on the road against those two, with an April 11th meeting in Miami on NBA-TV still to go. Ironically, the Pacers may have to win a regular-season game in Miami for a chance to host a Game 7 in the Eastern Conference finals.
Defense has been the Pacers calling card, but winning it all without scoring is rare. If they manage to capture a title despite scoring 96.8 points a game, the Pacers would become the first team to win the title averaging 97 points or less since the 2004-05 Spurs (96.2). Even the Spurs organization, which places an emphasis on defense, currently averages 105.6 points a game. If the Pacers learned anything from their Monday night loss to the Spurs, it's that the best defense may be a good offense.


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In the spring of 1862, Abraham Lincoln signed into law an act of Congress that established the early beginnings of the history of the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture). This 150-year-old section of government laid the foundation for how our modern agriculture industry would advance in the realm of land cultivation, conservation, and economic development.
Lincoln was born on a poor farm in Kentucky in the midst of pioneer farming on the western frontier of America. His work as a farm hand gave him the understanding and experience for what it meant to cultivate land and produce successful harvests. Once he left his farming life to pursue politics, Lincoln expressed his passion for developing better education and government recognition of agriculture and engineering.
When he was nominated by the Republican Party for the presidency in 1860 Lincoln made known the priority of agriculture would hold in his political platform and decisions. Once elected, Lincoln's primary focus was maintaining the union in the midst of The Civil War, but he also managed to enact four agricultural proposals regarding the state of American agriculture. The history of the USDA shows four proposals establishing a Department of Agriculture, a Homestead Act, the construction of a Union Pacific-Central Pacific railroad, and the Morrill Land Grant College Act.
The Department of Agriculture, which Lincoln deemed "The People's Department", was set to follow the interest of farmers and farming communities, who made up over half of the American population at the time. Upon its acceptance as a government department the public encouraged that a commissioner be appointed to lead the agricultural initiatives.
Lincoln decided to appoint Isaac Newton as the first Commissioner of Agriculture because of his innovative farming and farm management techniques. Newton outlined several objectives in his first annual report which included collecting agricultural data, introducing new plants and animals, testing agricultural equipment, analyzing soils, grains, fruits, plants, and vegetables, and establishing an agricultural library and museum. These initial objectives shaped the legislation that Congress put in place to determine the USDA's layout and divisions.
The years following the initial establishment of the USDA were made up of additional acts and proposals that furthered agricultural aspiration. In 1889 President Grover Cleveland signed a billed to elevate the Department of Agriculture to Cabinet level. In 1914 the Smith-Lever Act funded services of teaching agriculture and home economics to the public which extended the USDA's reach across the country. During The Great Depression the services of the Department of Agriculture were needed more than ever; help was given to struggling farmers to ensure food was still being produced.
Today farmers make up only 2 percent of the total population, yet Lincoln's initial vision lives on through the USDA's continued work with food, agriculture, economic development, research, natural resource conservation and a number of issues that touch the lives of Americans every day. The history of the USDA's inception defines a major period of our nation.
If you enjoyed this post, check out more like it on our Facebook page!
Photo credit: Abraham Lincoln, cattle farmers, USDA newsletter


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Scholle Takes Helm at Bureau, Oct. 29, 1999
SOCORRO, N.M., Oct. 29, 1999 -- Peter A. Scholle, who recently was appointed director of the New Mexico Bureau of Mines and Mineral Resources (NMBM&MR) and state geologist, made the move from Dallas to Socorro earlier this summer after accepting his new position, and, so far, he says, he hasn't missed Dallas "five cents worth."
Scholle had spent the last 14 years prior to becoming director of the Bureau of Mines occupying the Albritton Professor of Geology endowed chair at Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas.
"My short-term goal is to unpack 2,000 boxes," Scholle jokes.
"But on a more serious note, my long-term goal in my new position will be to maintain and build up what is already a first-rate organization," he adds.
The NMBM&MR is a research division of New Mexico Tech, a state-supported research university in Socorro. "The Bureau," as the organization is commonly known, is the official state agency responsible by law for original investigations of geology and mineral resources in New Mexico.
With a little over two months of directorship experience already under his belt, Scholle says he has spent most of his time at the Bureau "finding out what [he needs] to know."
Sixty-five Bureau staff members report directly to Scholle--each of them with different skills and specialties.
In addition, the NMBM&MR's primary focus on New Mexico geological and mineral resources gives Scholle a big geographic area to cover.
"It's going to take a big learning curve for me to figure out all the connections the Bureau maintains throughout New Mexico," he says. "Fortunately, these first few months are called 'the honeymoon period,' and so I've been getting a lot of help from a lot of people as I learn the ropes."
Scholle, a native New Yorker, earned his bachelor of science degree in geology at Yale University. He went on to graduate studies at the University of Munich, as well as the University of Texas at Austin, and eventually completed his work toward his master's and doctorate degrees at Princeton University.
After receiving his Ph.D., and prior to his stint at SMU, he worked as a research geologist with an independent oil company, and later also served for several years as a research geologist with the U. S. Geological Survey, eventually becoming branch chief of the oil and gas resources division of that agency's Denver office.
In addition, Scholle has served as a consulting geologist to various other national and international oil companies and also as Gulf Oil/Chevron Oil Research's chief scientist in carbonate studies before embarking on his academic career.
Most of Scholle's consulting and research work has centered on carbonate sedimentology, particularly chalks and limestones and their relation to petroleum exploration.
"You could say most of the work I've done falls on the applied side of research," he says.
Scholle says he has been "duly impressed" by both the Bureau and the university, before and since arriving at New Mexico Tech.
"By and large, the Bureau and Tech are great collaborators, and this partnership only strengthens the quality of work done on both sides," he says. "They're really good institutions; but, of course, there's nothing that can't be made better."
The new director of what is essentially New Mexico's equivalent of a state geological survey foresees his organization growing in several critical areas.
"I'd like to expand our research efforts in hydrology," Scholle says, "especially since water resources are so critical and are the single most limiting factor in the development of New Mexico.
"I would also like to see the Bureau do more work on issues related to assessing geologic hazards around the state," he adds, "issues commonly associated with earthquakes, landslides, sinkholes, and expanding soils, issues which also directly affect the economic development of New Mexico."
Scholle also says he will work to enhance the NMBM&MR's current outreach efforts which target the state's K-12 students, as well as interested adults.
"The Internet is a great way to do that," he explains. "We've already found that maintaining our Internet site (http://geoinfo.nmt.edu) is a great way to disseminate information without having to spend vast amounts of money. Kids today are remarkably computer literate, and so are their teachers, as well as many of their parents."
Scholle says he is not about to make any abrupt decisions on his own concerning the Bureau's future, but is more in favor of perhaps employing a strategic planning group or a panel of Bureau
staff members to "brainstorm" those issues which the agency will face in the new millennium.
"Someone ultimately has to make the final decisions, though" the Bureau director points out, "and I'm not going to be abdicating that responsibility."
Scholle says his background has made him a firm believer in delegating less important matters and that he will continue to do so in his new position.
"I don't intend to do all the work of the Bureau," he insists. "Guidance, when needed, and a sense of direction are the only things that are going to emanate from my office."
Scholle asserts that he didn't enter his directorship with a preconceived notion that continuity should be maintained just for continuity's sake.
Change for the better can be a good thing, he says.
"The very name, New Mexico Bureau of Mines and Mineral Resources, for instance, is long and drawn out and doesn't really express what the Bureau actually does, which is primarily mapping our state's geologic resources and which has little to do with mines or mineral resources," Scholle observes. "We'd probably be better off adopting a new name which better reflects what we do."
All in all, Scholle says he is "ecstatic to be here," a sentiment, he says, which is shared by his wife, Dana Ullmer-Scholle, who is now an adjunct faculty member in Tech's Earth and environmental sciences department.
"There is a sense of spirit and comraderie and a lack of pompousness here that you just can't find in very many places today," Scholle says. "And, it's great to be a part of that!"


text:
Main Page
Welcome to MyLabWiki
This is my personal wiki I use for prototyping, drafting, and working on various ideas within amateur radio, space communications, and other technological areas that interest me. I like the editing, indexing, and revision history capabilities a wiki offers and so I am using this wiki as an electronic Lab Journal -- hence the name LabWiki :-)
You will find many more or less useful information here ranging from conceptual ideas to fully documented experiments. They are all organized in projects and categories. You are free to use the information on this site under the terms outlined here. If you want to help me in some of the work or you would like to use this LabWiki for your own ideas and experiments send me an email and we can talk about it. You can read more about MyLabWiki and then have fun!
Lifecycle: Idea -> Experiment -> Completed
Currently, I have 80 articles.


text:
May 2
Away Guide to Stade Français
Allez les Blancs!
Where to sleep in Paris
As I live in Paris, I have very little knowledge of hotel standards and prices. But.
An old friend of mine, Vincent, decided to buy and restore a hotel after a long career in the beer industry. The result is quite nice and quite affordable as well. The hotel is located not far from Gare du Nord where Eurostar lands in Paris and not far either from Place de la République, where you can take the métro straight to stade Jean Bouin (line 9). Of know : at...
May 3
Away Guide to Treviso
An Ulster fans View of Treviso
Treviso is a small city in the North East of Italy 35 km North of Venice population around 85,000. The walled centre mostly dating back to the early 1500's and outside the walls all built during the last 110 years. This is a town to explore on foot as it's maze of canals and bridges, houses decorated with frescoes, churches and palaces cannot be seen any other way, don't forget to look up under some of the archways as the old frescos are at there best protected...
May 3
Away Supporter's Guide to Edinburgh
With a population of just under half a million people, Scotland's capital, Edinburgh, is the nation's second largest city.
Situated on the eastern coast of the central belt, 45 miles from Glasgow, the city plays host to some 13 million visitors in year, making it the largest tourist centre in the UK outside of London.
Known as the Athens Of The North, because of the predominance of neo-classical architecture dotted around its historic city centre, it's variety of galleries and museums,...
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There's a billboard in Rio de Janeiro's Copacabana Beach featuring Luis Suárez screaming at something, and it probably looked really intense until Suárez bit someone (again). After he reverted to his bitey ways, many beachgoers took the opportunity to reenact the bizarre shoulder bite with the ad.
If those weren't enough for you, the Guardian and G1 have some more photos. This lady—from the G1 gallery—definitely knows what's up.
First two photos: Getty, Next three: AP


text:
Dreamdancer wrote:made a short run with the vampire in the cave. Think vampire needs somewhat time to get used to. But seems really powerful with the right gear and glyphs.
Vampire plays very differently from other classes. Definitely something that takes time to get used to. GETINDARE is his best glyph, but if he can't get it then the platemail is pretty awesome for him. Sadly, the two don't stack well.


text:
Forum Rules
Please abide by these rules at all times. This forum is provided free of charge for your use, please respect this.
- Please be aware that this site may contain content unsuitable for minors. As such, there is an 18+ self-rating in effect - those of a younger age using the forum acknowledge this and therefore do so at their own risk.
- Do not troll, bait, snipe or abuse other members (Off Topic will be more relaxed about this, unless it becomes a problem.)
- Under no circumstances can illegal material such as "warez", ISOs, roms, torrent sites relating to any of these, be linked to or discussed here. The server itself is covered by UK Law, therefore "illegal material" also extends to certain pornographic images etc, such as beastiality and paedophelia.
- The Off Topic forum is provided for you to discuss non-gaming related things. Whilst there will be a relaxed attitude toward items deemed Not Suitable for Work, please ensure that all threads containing such material are marked NSFW.
- If you have a problem, or wish to report something you deem inappropriate, please use the Report Post button.
- Some boards (such as the Trading Boards) have specific rules that apply to that board. Any rules that are specific to a board show up in the header of the board.


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Stream: Watch Full Movie @ Movie4u
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Alcohol 120% is CD/DVD emulation and recording software that allows users to copy discs. Store your most used or important CDs as images on your computer and run them at 200x speed from up to 31 virtual CD or DVD drives. Alcohol is compatible with more than 99% of drives available. It supports the latest image file types including - MDS, CCD, BIN, CUE, ISO, CDI, BWT, BWI, BWS, BWA and many more.
Changelog version 18.104.22.16829, 2007-07-02:
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* Intel/AMD based PC with Windows 95/98/ME/NT/2000/XP/Server2003/XP Professional x64 Edition/Server 2003 x64/Vista 32x and 64x operating system.
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text:
recurring thrush? (VITAMINS AND MINERALS, 2010)
hello Dr. I am a 34 gwm diagnosed with AIDS a year ago. At that time my CD4's were 63, VL 115,000. I was very fatigued, and had bouts of recurring thrush. I began HAART (Reyataz, Truvada, Norvir) and also Mepron (due to a Dapsone allergy)and Diflucan 200mg daily, and a prenatal vitamin. I have had very good results. A few labs came back undetectable >48 copies per mL. My lastest labs were about a month ago, and were; CD4 274, VL 10 copies per mL. Dr. seems to think that I am doing very will and says that my lifespan will be measured in decades now.
Because of increasing burning in my stomach and diarrhea, my specialist discontinued the Mepron after 2 labs with CD4's above 250, and those side effects have subsided.
My Dr. has been very disbelieving that I actually have recurring thrush; however over the past year, every time I stop taking the Diflucan...the thrush comes back, despite my increase in CD4's. So, now I have been taking Diflucan 200mgs daily for several months. If I do not this medication sandwich it with food, I feel really lousy and have some abdominal inflammation and nausea.
I would like to know your thoughts on this thrush. Will I always have to take medicine for it? or will one day when my CD4's get higher will my immune system be able to keep it under control?
Also, do you believe that there is any benefit in taking prenatal vitamins? I was told by the nurse that they are loaded with folic acid, and that this was a good thing, but don't really know how beneficial they are, and am wondering if they could be causing some of my nausea.
Thank you very much for your time sir.
There is no doubt your combination antiretroviral therapy has been extremely beneficial both immunologically (CD4 count rising from 63 to 274) and virologically (viral load plummeting from 115,000 to undetectable).
I don't know why your physician is "very disbelieving" regarding your recurrent bouts of thrush. It's not that difficult to diagnose, and if you have it, you have it! Although thrush often subsides as immune function improves, your counts are only in the mid-200s. It is possible there are some holes in your immune repertoire that increase your likelihood of having thrush. I see no reason why you shouldn't stay on Diflucan prophylactically for a while, allowing for additional immune reconstitution over time. You could then try discontinuing the Diflucan to see if it's still needed. Should you continue to improve immunologically, I would anticipate you will eventually be able to discontinue your Diflucan.
As for vitamins, a multivitamin is recommended. It doesn't have to be a prenatal vitamin. (See below.)
Dr. Bob
Vitamins and Minerals January 22, 2010
Why Are Vitamins and Minerals Important?
Vitamins and minerals are sometimes called micronutrients. Our bodies need them, in small amounts, to support the chemical reactions our cells need to live. Different nutrients affect digestion, the nervous system, thinking, and other body processes. Micronutrients can be found in many foods. Healthy people might be able to get enough vitamins and minerals from their food. People with HIV or another illness need more micronutrients to help repair and heal cells. Also, many medications can create shortages of different nutrients.
What Are Antioxidants?
Some molecules in the body are in a form called oxidized. These molecules are also called free radicals. They react very easily with other molecules, and can damage cells. High levels of free radicals seem to cause a lot of the damage associated with aging. Free radicals are produced as part of normal body chemistry. Antioxidants are molecules that can stop free radicals from reacting with other molecules. This limits the damage they do. Several nutrients are antioxidants.
Antioxidants are important for people with HIV, because HIV infection leads to higher levels of free radicals. Also, free radicals can increase the activity of HIV. Higher levels of antioxidants can slow down the virus and help repair some of the damage it does.
How Much Do I Need?
You might think that all you have to do to get enough vitamins and minerals is to take a "one-a-day" multivitamin pill. Unfortunately, it's not that easy. The amounts of micronutrients in many of these pills are based on the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) set by the U.S. government. The problem with the RDAs is that they are not the amounts of micronutrients that are needed by people with HIV. Instead, they are the minimum amounts needed to prevent shortages in healthy people. HIV disease and many AIDS medications can use up some nutrients. One study of people with HIV showed that they needed between 6 and 25 times the RDA of some nutrients! Still, a high potency multivitamin is a good way to get basic micronutrients.
Which Nutrients Are Important?
There has not been a lot of research on specific nutrients and HIV disease. However, one study showed that pregnant women in Tanzania benefited greatly from multivitamin supplementation. Also, many nutrients interact with each other. Most nutritionists believe in designing an overall program of supplements. People with HIV may benefit from taking supplements of the following vitamins and minerals:
B Vitamins: Vitamin B-1 (Thiamine), Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin), Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine), Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin), and Folate (Folic Acid). Antioxidants, including beta-carotene (the body breaks down beta-carotene to make Vitamin A), selenium, Vitamin E (Tocopherol), and Vitamin C. Magnesium and Zinc
What About Other Supplements?
In addition to vitamins and minerals, some nutritionists suggest that people with HIV take supplements of other nutrients: Acidophilus, a bacterium that grows naturally in the intestines, helps with digestion. Alpha-lipoic acid is a powerful antioxidant that may help with neuropathy and mental problems. Carnitine (also called acetyl-L-carnitine) may help prevent wasting and provide other immunologic and metabolic benefits, Coenzyme Q10 may help with immune function. Essential fatty acids found in evening primrose oil or flaxseed oil can help with dry skin and scalp. N-Acetyl-Cysteine, an antioxidant, can help maintain body levels of glutathione. Glutathione is one of the body's main antioxidants. Omega 3 fatty acids can help decrease triglycerides Niacin can help increase good cholesterol and decrease bad cholesterol
Can Nutrients Be Harmful?
Most vitamins and nutrients appear to be safe as supplements, even at levels higher than the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs). However, some can cause problems at higher doses, including Vitamin A, Vitamin D, copper, iron, niacin, selenium, and zinc. A basic program of vitamin and mineral supplementation should be safe. This would include the following, all taken according to directions on the bottle:
A multiple vitamin/mineral (without extra iron), An antioxidant supplement with several different ingredients, and A trace element supplement. There are seven essential trace elements: chromium, copper, cobalt, iodine, iron, selenium, and zinc. Some multivitamins also include trace elements. Any other program of supplements should be based on discussion with a doctor or nutritionist. Remember that higher price may not mean better quality.
For More Information
You can get more information on nutrition and HIV from these web sites and books: Vitamins and Supplement web links, http://sis.nlm.nih.gov/hiv/nutrition.html#a3
Nutrition and HIV: A New Model for Treatment by Mary Romeyn, M.D., published by Jossey-Bass, Inc, telephone 1-415-433-1740.
A Clinician's Guide to Nutrition In HIV and AIDS, by Cade Fields-Gardner and others, $31 published by the American Dietetic Association, P.O. Box 97215, Chicago IL 60678-7215; or 800-877-1600, ext. 5000.


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Developer - Google Inc.
Home page - developers.google.com/ar
Developer - Google Inc.
Home page - developers.google.com/ar
Introducing ARCore
Published on Aug 29, 2017
"ARCore: Augmented reality at Android scale"Introducing a preview of a new SDK called ARCore. It brings augmented reality capabilities to existing and future Android phones.
by Dave Burke
August 29, 2017
Article "Google Unveils ARCore, Its Answer To Apple's ARKit, But It Will Be Hard To Catch Up"
Google says its new platform will let developers create convincing augmented reality experiences for millions of Android devices–no special cameras or sensors required.
by Mark Sullivan
August 29, 2017
Introducing ARCore: Augmented Reality at Android Scale
Published on Sep 5, 2017
ARCore is Google's new Android SDK that brings Augmented Reality capabilities to millions of mobile devices. In this video, Tom Slater introduces the main concepts of ARCore, walks through building your first AR app, and explains how to make the most of the ARCore SDK.
The theme of augmented reality is gaining popularity every day. I believe this technology can turn almost every area of our lives. I want to share an article on this topic, which I recently found about augmented reality app development.. It describes in detail many facts of this process.


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Chomsky writes: "Howard's remarkable life and work are summarised best in his own words. His primary concern, he explained, was 'the countless small actions of unknown people' that lie at the roots of 'those great moments' that enter the historical record - a record that will be profoundly misleading, and seriously disempowering, if it is torn from these roots as it passes through the filters of doctrine and dogma."
Noam Chomsky was awarded the Sydney Peace Prize. (photo: Ben Rusk/flickr)
Remembering Howard Zinn
27 January 12
Editor's note: Today, January 27, is the second anniversary of the death of Howard Zinn. An active participant in the Civil Rights movement, he was dismissed in 1963 from his position as a tenured professor at Spelman College in Atlanta after siding with black women students in the struggle against segregation. In 1967, he wrote one of the first, and most influential, books calling for an end to the war in Vietnam. A veteran of the US Army Air Force, he edited The Pentagon Papers, leaked by whistleblower Daniel Ellsberg, and was later designated a "high security risk" by the FBI.
His best-selling A People's History of the United States spawned a new field of historical study: People's Histories. This approach countered the traditional triumphalist examination of "history as written by the victors", instead concentrating on the poor and seemingly powerless; those who resisted imperial, cultural and corporate hegemony. Zinn was an award-winning social activist, writer and historian - and so who better to share his memory than his close friend and fellow intellectual giant, Noam Chomsky?
t is not easy for me to write a few words about Howard Zinn, the great American activist and historian. He was a very close friend for 45 years. The families were very close too. His wife Roz, who died of cancer not long before, was also a marvellous person and close friend. Also sombre is the realisation that a whole generation seems to be disappearing, including several other old friends: Edward Said, Eqbal Ahmed and others, who were not only astute and productive scholars, but also dedicated and courageous militants, always on call when needed - which was constant. A combination that is essential if there is to be hope of decent survival.
Howard's remarkable life and work are summarised best in his own words. His primary concern, he explained, was "the countless small actions of unknown people" that lie at the roots of "those great moments" that enter the historical record - a record that will be profoundly misleading, and seriously disempowering, if it is torn from these roots as it passes through the filters of doctrine and dogma. His life was always closely intertwined with his writings and innumerable talks and interviews. It was devoted, selflessly, to empowerment of the unknown people who brought about great moments. That was true when he was an industrial worker and labour activist, and from the days, 50 years ago, when he was teaching at Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia, a black college that was open mostly to the small black elite.
While teaching at Spelman, Howard supported the students who were at the cutting edge of the civil rights movement in its early and most dangerous days, many of whom became quite well-known in later years - Alice Walker, Julian Bond and others - and who loved and revered him, as did everyone who knew him well. And as always, he did not just support them, which was rare enough, but also participated directly with them in their most hazardous efforts - no easy undertaking at that time, before there was any organised popular movement and in the face of government hostility that lasted for some years. Finally, popular support was ignited, in large part by the courageous actions of the young people who were sitting in at lunch counters, riding freedom buses, organising demonstrations, facing bitter racism and brutality, sometimes death.
By the early 1960s, a mass popular movement was taking shape, by then with Martin Luther King in a leadership role - and the government had to respond. As a reward for his courage and honesty, Howard was soon expelled from the college where he taught. A few years later, he wrote the standard work on SNCC (the Student Non-violent Coordinating Committee), the major organisation of those "unknown people" whose "countless small actions" played such an important part in creating the groundswell that enabled King to gain significant influence - as I am sure he would have been the first to say - and to bring the country to honour the constitutional amendments of a century earlier that had theoretically granted elementary civil rights to former slaves - at least to do so partially; no need to stress that there remains a long way to go.
A Civilising Influence
On a personal note, I came to know Howard well when we went together to a civil rights demonstration in Jackson Mississippi in (I think) 1964, even at that late date, a scene of violent public antagonism, police brutality and indifference - or even co-operation - with state security forces on the part of federal authorities, sometimes in ways that were quite shocking.
After being expelled from the Atlanta college where he taught, Howard came to Boston, and spent the rest of his academic career at Boston University, where he was, I am sure, the most admired and loved faculty member on campus, and the target of bitter antagonism and petty cruelty on the part of the administration. In later years, however, after his retirement, he gained the public honour and respect that was always overwhelming among students, staff, much of the faculty, and the general community. While there, Howard wrote the books that brought him well-deserved fame. His book Logic of Withdrawal, in 1967, was the first to express clearly and powerfully what many were then beginning barely to contemplate: that the US had no right even to call for a negotiated settlement in Vietnam, leaving Washington with power and substantial control in the country it had invaded and by then already largely destroyed.
Rather, the US should do what any aggressor should: withdraw, allow the population to somehow reconstruct as they could from the wreckage, and if minimal honesty could be attained, pay massive reparations for the crimes that the invading armies had committed, vast crimes in this case. The book had wide influence among the public, although to this day, its message can barely even be comprehended in elite educated circles, an indication of how much necessary work lies ahead.
Significantly, among the general public by the war's end, 70 per cent regarded the war as "fundamentally wrong and immoral", not "a mistake," a remarkable figure, considering the fact that scarcely a hint of such a thought was expressible in mainstream opinion. Howard's writings - and, as always, his prominent presence in protest and direct resistance - were a major factor in civilising much of the country.
In those same years, Howard also became one of the most prominent supporters of the resistance movement that was then developing. He was one of the early signers of the Call to Resist Illegitimate Authority and was so close to the activities of Resist that he was practically one of the organisers. He also took part at once in the sanctuary actions that had a remarkable impact in galvanising anti-war protest. Whatever was needed - talks, participation in civil disobedience, support for resisters, testimony at trials - Howard was always there.
'History From Below'
Even more influential in the long run than Howard's anti-war writings and actions was his enduring masterpiece, A People's History of the United States, a book that literally changed the consciousness of a generation. Here he developed with care, lucidity and comprehensive sweep his fundamental message about the crucial role of the people who remain unknown in carrying forward the endless struggle for peace and justice, and about the victims of the systems of power that create their own versions of history and seek to impose it. Later, his "Voices" from the People's History, now an acclaimed theatrical and television production, has brought to many the actual words of those forgotten or ignored people who have played such a valuable role in creating a better world.
Howard's unique success in drawing the actions and voices of unknown people from the depths to which they had largely been consigned has spawned extensive historical research following a similar path, focusing on critical periods of US history, and turning to the record in other countries as well, a very welcome development. It is not entirely novel - there had been scholarly inquiries of particular topics before - but nothing to compare with Howard's broad and incisive evocation of "history from below", compensating for critical omissions in how US history had been interpreted and conveyed.
Howard's dedicated activism continued, literally without a break, until the very end, even in his last years, when he was suffering from severe infirmity and personal loss - though one would hardly know it when meeting him or watching him speaking tirelessly to captivated audiences all over the country. Whenever there was a struggle for peace and justice, Howard was there, on the front lines, unflagging in his enthusiasm, and inspiring in his integrity, engagement, eloquence and insight; a light touch of humour in the face of adversity, and dedication to non-violence and sheer decency. It is hard even to imagine how many young people's lives were touched, and how deeply, by his achievements, both in his work and his life.
There are places where Howard's life and work should have particular resonance. One, which should be much better known, is Turkey. I know of no other country where leading writers, artists, journalists, academics and other intellectuals have compiled such an impressive record of bravery and integrity in condemning crimes of the state, and going beyond to engage in civil disobedience to try to bring oppression and violence to an end, facing and sometimes enduring severe repression, and then returning to the task.
It is an honourable record, unique to my knowledge, a record of which the country should be proud. And one that should be a model for others, just as Howard Zinn's life and work are an unforgettable model, sure to leave a permanent stamp on how history is understood and how a decent and honourable life should be lived.
Noam Chomsky is Institute Professor emeritus in the MIT Department of Linguistics and Philosophy. He is the author of numerous bestselling political works, including 9-11: Was There an Alternative? (Seven Stories Press), an updated version of his classic account, just being published this week with a major new essay - from which this post was adapted - considering the ten years since the 9/11 attacks.
A note of caution regarding our comment sections:
For months a stream of media reports have warned of coordinated propaganda efforts targeting political websites based in the U.S., particularly in the run-up to the 2016 presidential election.
We too were alarmed at the patterns we were, and still are, seeing. It is clear that the provocateurs are far more savvy, disciplined, and purposeful than anything we have ever experienced before.
It is also clear that we still have elements of the same activity in our article discussion forums at this time.
We have hosted and encouraged reader expression since the turn of the century. The comments of our readers are the most vibrant, best-used interactive feature at Reader Supported News. Accordingly, we are strongly resistant to interrupting those services.
It is, however, important to note that in all likelihood hardened operatives are attempting to shape the dialog our community seeks to engage in.
Adapt and overcome.
Marc Ash
Founder, Reader Supported News
I feel the ghost of Zinn hovers over the enterprises of me and my students--a veritable Holy Ghost. And I was delighted by the tribute here--so appropriate--to this wonderful man which Chomsky has written.
ZINN 2002 (gone but never forgotten!)
I remember on two occasions going to hear Chomsky lecture where the cultural change that had occurred by the late 1960s was hilariously apparent. The smashing of the limits of acceptable discourse that Chomsky and other true intellectuals had achieved at least at the university level was very much apparent.
In the first instance Chomsky was discussing the Israeli-Palesti nian situation when someone in the question-from-t he audience phase challenged the audience "Are we going to let this Jew-Commie tell us to follow the Commie line in the Middle East?" After five seconds of silence spontaneous laughter filled the room for several minutes.
Here's the rest of the story.
The second was a "debate" over the morality of the Viet Nam War, where Chomsky and Zinn carried the day for morality. In that case the same blind allegiance to what the opposing debater assumed was the only acceptable discourse led him to say something like: "Are we going to let these men attack the morality of our great nation?" There was no brief silence before the laughter that time.
I'm glad Howard Zinn will not see the violence against citizens that is being carried out and will be much worse than when he was an activist.
"Character is more valuable than wealth..wealth is material and dissolves but character is moral and has lasting effects. If is was not for character whereby man would make every known sacrifice, even to giving up life itself for the sake of principle, human beings would be no better than the beasts of the field. ...the will to do right creates the master character." - Alfred W. Lawson
I have no doubt Zinn would have been most interested in what Israel's Nuclear Whistle Blower, Mordechai Vanunu told me:
"The French were responsible for the actual building of the Dimona. The Germans gave the money...
"President Kennedy tried to stop Israel from building atomic weapons.'
"When Johnson became president, he made an agreement with Israel that two senators would come every year to inspect. Before the senators would visit, the Israelis would build a wall to block the underground elevators and stairways. From 1963 to '69, the senators came, but they never knew about the wall that hid the rest of the Dimona from them.
"Nixon stopped the inspections and agreed to ignore the situation. As a result, Israel increased production. In 1986, there were over two hundred bombs. Today, they may have enough plutonium for ten bombs a year."
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text:
[Poem: Angel Haze]
Somehow the nights are always the longest
I can't look within myself without seeing you first
I can't open up my wounds without worsening hurt
I can't ever get the flowers if I don't pull them from dirt
I feel you in my sheets
See you in cracks as I get nearer to the door
Sometimes I walk alone, and I can hear you in the floor screaming, "Why'd you let me drown? Why'd you let me go?"
And I, I never have the answers
I hear your screams like tears falling from the mountains
In your eyes such a sharp, sharp pain
I can hear and feel you die, hear you calling
I hear you calling, but I can't save you
I can't save you
I can't save you one more time
I can't look you in your eyes and tell you, "Things will be alright."
I can't feed you any lines
Get you hooked and reel you in, just to throw you back again and watch you drown
All over again
And I'm mentally reclined in my mind
Previewing memories of the times when we almost had it
When all it took was to grasp it
When all it took was to grab it
Clench your fist so tightly around that bliss and be happy
But somehow the sands of time slipped through our fabric, and stained our existence with that of it's own
It was running out on top of us
Slowly running out on top of us
And if you can hear me cry in this poem, disregard it
Because this is the part where my heart will harden
What do you do with a heart you can't feel?
Who do you give it to?
How do you live with it?
I'm guilt trippin'
I've packed bags full of sadness
Remorse, my anger won't let me see past it
My bloodshot eyes are so tired, I can't seem to see straight
It was not supposed to be this way
It cannot be this way
I remember finding sun in your eyes
The stars in your smile
I could walk for miles along the concrete just staring into them
And now I play keyboards like pianos typing symphonies of misery
Instrumenting our memories
Praying that you'll remember me
Praying that you'll remember me when my years run out
When our cycle discontinues
When your fears run out
Praying that you'll remember me when you move on
Praying I'm still your weakness when you grow strong
Never let your heart run out on you
Never let your heart run out on you…


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Covercraft Ultra'tect™ Car Covers
Material Features
Ultra'tect™ car covers are created from a solution-dyed WeatherMax SL fabric that was engineered with exposure to the outdoor elements in mind and is available in 4 colors. Solution-dyed materials are famous for their fade resistance, making Ultra'tect car covers ideal for use in sunny, high-UV environments.
Ultra'tect™ Swatch
Material Details
Utra'tect™ car covers use a unique blend of double-twisted 150D yarns that make it very strong and durable while retaining a fairly soft hand feel. The fabric also tends to keep its shape very well, as the yarns don't have much give or stretch to them. The color in the yarns is added to the synthetic polymer before the yarn is even extruded, giving it excellent UV resistant properties.
Expect to pay more for a solution-dyed material as opposed to a material that's dyed after the yarn is woven because of the comparable differences. Water repellency is achieved by a HydroMax topcoat that's applied to the fabric after it's been weaved. This coating is very similar to a Scotchgard finish, causing water to bead and roll off the surface of the cover. This same coating is used on the reverse side of the material to help minimize moisture penetration.
Ultra'tect's™ Weathermax car covers are only available as a custom-fitted option and are made exclusively by Covercraft. They're made to order, so shipment usually takes up to 10 business days after the order is placed.
Caring for your Ultra'tect Car Cover
For ultimate protection, your Ultra'tect™ car cover needs to be cleaned and maintained periodically. By regularly cleaning your Ultra'tect™ car cover, you'll prevent "fogging" from occurring on your vehicle's windows.
To machine wash your Ultra'tect car cover, begin by inserting it into the washer, fill with warm water and then add ¼ cup laundry detergent. Let the machine run its delicate cycle. Then rinse the cover twice to be sure all detergent has been spun out. Air dry the cover completely before using or storing away.
To keep your cover looking and performing its best we suggest following these cleaning tips:
- Remove the washing machine's agitator before washing
- Don't use a fabric softener
- Air dry ONLY
An Ultra'tect™ car cover can be hand-washed while it's on your vehicle. Mix an ounce of mild dishwashing liquid per quart of warm water. Spray or sponge soapy water onto cover and clean with sponge or soft bristle brush. Rinse with plain water until no suds are evident and allow to air dry. Once cover has completely dried, it may be used or stored away.
Important Note: No cover is completely waterproof.
Good performing car covers are designed with various levels of water-resistance while still being breathable to provide a maximum amount of protection for your vehicle.
For vehicles exposed to harsh elements such as constant moisture or snow or if they are covered outside for long periods at a time, please note sometimes trapped moisture can occur which can leave behind a cloudy residue. For this reason, we recommend periodically removing your cover to check for moisture. If moisture is present, we suggest drying the moist areas on the surface of your vehicle as well as the car cover until completely dry before placing your cover back onto your vehicle.
Ultra'tect™ is a registered trademark of CoverCraft Industries.
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More to explore on Mission Reach
It's become a favorite draw for runners, hikers and bicyclists. Now, an additional mile of the Mission Reach of the San Antonio River has opened to the public.
The new section makes it possible to enjoy the river's ecosystem restoration for more than three miles, from the Lone Star Brewery to VFW Boulevard. But there's still more work to be done.
About 3.25 miles just south of downtown have been completed on the 8-mile, $245 million Mission Reach project. The remaining work, costing $99 million, will take improvements from near Mission Concepción south to Mission Espada.
The effort is on track for completion no later than August 2013, San Antonio River Authority officials told dozens of area residents who met at Slattery Hall.
""Eventually you get your river back, over a 25-year period," project manager Mark Sorenson said.
He described a wide range of changes under way as the meandering river's ecosystem is restored and recreational features are added. While some upgrades are immediate, it will take decades for thousands of trees being planted to mature, Sorenson said.
Like earlier phases, Phase 3 will leave the river in a natural channel lined by wide trails and a variety of well-adapted vegetation. Residents welcomed the upgrades but several registered concerns, including construction dust, illegal trash dumping and roaming packs of feral hogs.
Others had questions about public access, which will be during daylight hours only; costs; and details about trails and other amenities.
Some asserted that indigenous groups weren't sufficiently involved in planning, although officials said there are multiple groups working on the project with community participation, and procedures are in place to respectfully handle any ancient burial sites, if encountered.
"We've got the UTSA Center for Archaeological Research on site all the time. If they find anything, we immediately stop that particular dig and get them to research it," Sorenson said.
So far, no burials have been found, he said.
Despite the many concerns, residents praised the project for bringing jobs to the area, putting the historic missions in a spotlight, making the river more useable and adding recreational options for the South Side.
"It's great. It's beautiful," resident Henry Troutz said. "It's not only for ourselves but for our children."
email@example.com. This article originally appeared in the July 3 San Antonio Express-News.


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Better Place and the future of EV in Australia
Much has been written already about Better Place and Israeli founder Shai Agassi's plan to bring a mobile phone-style business model to the sale of electric vehicles (EV). The Israelis, who are set to have their Better Place network installed by next year, have been effusive in their response to the company's plan. The response elsewhere has been upbeat – in the US, here in Australia, and elsewhere. Inevitably, some have been less than sanguine about Better Place's vision. Either way, Better Place is advanced in their rollout in Israel, with Denmark not far behind, and aims to have its Australian network ready 6 months after Denmark's.
The outline of the model is fairly straightforward: since EV batteries are expensive, the company will lease the battery to the consumer for a monthly fee over a multi-year contract, much like mobile phone contracts work. So consumers need only purchase the vehicle itself for roughly the same price as its petrol-powered equivalent, and then enjoy the benefits of paying per kilometre driven. At least in Australia, all the power at the charge points will come from renewables, most likely wind power, which still has the distinct advantage of costing far less than petrol on a per-kilometre basis.
Better Place installs its own charge points at the consumer's place of residence and possibly at their place of work, and for longer journeys it will operate a network of battery exchange stations. Full charges by the consumer take too long to be viable on a long journey (say, from Sydney to Melbourne) and present other technical challenges, whereas Better Place claims that a simple battery exchange (for a pre-charged battery) will take all of three minutes.
I've thought for some time that plug-in hybrids (preferably LPG/electrics simply because gas is somewhat cleaner and cheaper than petrol) are the natural solution to the personal transportation problem. This is because most city drivers could survive on a fully juiced-up battery, leaving the LPG tank for longer journeys which are relatively infrequent for most people. But you are left with what remains an expensive car which is charged by traditional power outlets, which for most people means simply switching the carbon burden from petrol to coal.
This is why I like a lot about Better Place's business model. As CNET points out, it solves the issue of EV battery expense and the range problem (particularly with these early-generation batteries that are only capable of a 160 km range). It solves the chicken and egg problem of adoption by co-opting the "network" model of the mobile phone. It elegantly answers the critics who argue that EV isn't necessarily clean because it relies on traditional black power – because Better Place guarantees that its power will be 100% sourced from renewables. Hence their partnership in Australia with AGL. This is a huge selling point at a time when consumers remain concerned about their environmental impact even in the midst of the GFC. And the net result of all of it, should the project be even moderately successful in Australia, will be cleaner air and a significant reduction in dependence on foreign oil which is a clear geopolitical advantage. And, if all goes to plan, consumers will be paying massively less for their personal "fuel" costs – even if the cost of petrol continues to fall, EV costs per kilometre run rings around the cost of oil.
The reason why Shai Agassi and his company has captured the public's imagination is that it presents a comprehensive vision of how a country's fleet can be electrified. Perhaps for the first time, we have a simple, reasonably elegant model of a clean, renewable, sustainable electric future. Inevitably, there are going to be challenges – for instance, the installation of charging points at every consumer's home is understandably necessary to Better Place's success (in large measure, to ensure that the network is providing only renewably-sourced power), but it detracts from the elegance of the solution.
Nevertheless, I am cautiously optimistic about Better Place. It could easily become an important part of the personal transportation sector's mix in the next few years, and I say this largely because of a very simple test I have: I'd buy it. And I think a lot of other people will – because it has tremendous cost and branding advantages over hybrid vehicles and even questionably-fueled plug-in hybrids.
If I can have an electric car that will reliably get me around Sydney and up and down the NSW coast for a fraction of the fuel costs of a traditional ICE vehicle, and I know it's powered by 100% renewable energy, surely it's going to be as much of a no-brainer for many other consumers as it would be for me.
It will be fascinating to see what comes of this company. I suspect it's going places. Better places. (I couldn't resist.) Regardless, I suspect that we will be the last generation to suffer from the filthy air that has blackened our lungs, and the noise pollution of that dinosaur technology, the internal combustion engine.


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Custom Paint Jobs: Chevron Cart, Bombay Chest, Union Jack
Have you been following Apartment Therapy's Room for Color contest? Do you find yourself in need of a little color yourself? Skip the paintbrush and head here instead.
• Chicago, IL: Chevron Bar Cart - $250
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SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Barry Bonds has for the fourth time pleaded not guilty to charges he lied to a grand jury when he denied knowingly taking steroids.
The renewed plea on Tuesday was required after prosecutors revised their indictment for the second time since the original indictment was unsealed in November 2007. Bonds faces four charges of perjury and one count of obstruction. His trial begins March 21.
Bonds entered his plea ahead of a hearing where former personal trainer Greg Anderson is expected to tell a federal judge of his desire to go to jail on contempt charges for the length of the trial rather than testify as a government witness against Bonds.
Anderson previously spent more than a year in prison for refusing to testify before a grand jury investigating Bonds.


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hello New Wave
dear New Wave it is so good to hear from you again. it has been so long, but you sound wonderful! i do hope you will stay in touch, we missed you.
this has been a few very musically oriented days! New Wave seems to be making a a big comeback if my experiences this week are any indication. i _could_not_ be more thrilled.
DEVO releases a new album—Something For Everyone. the single Fresh delivers what the title promises. the track is true to the band's pop-punk mirthful criticism. i bought Fresh and listened many times over; it inspired me to go add much of the DEVO back catalog to my iTunes collection. for the DEVO aficionado, SFE has a back story of the band infiltrating corporate music to milk the system for all it is worth, including a weekly 'reality' show chronicling the birth and release of SFE.
some Fresh for you (all of you):
now if that weren't enough to make a nerd's week, i also discovered this band this morning which nearly made me weep with joy that the synthpop post punk sound is poised to make a big comeback. ladies and germs, please take a listen to Hussle Club:
HUSSLE CLUB "Good Morning Midnight" from Project Fathom on Vimeo.
and to round these finds for me are a new video and amazing sounds of The Death Set, who I am so happy to find via a link by the exceptional bootlegger Eve Massacre.
The Death Set "Far Weathered Friends" from Project Fathom on Vimeo.
i can't resist one either.


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COMMERCE CITY, Colo.—There was no celebration after the game for Earthquakes interim coach Mark Watson. San Jose's players prefer waiting for something a bit bigger.
Sam Cronin scored the winning goal in the 52nd minute and the Earthquakes beat the Colorado Rapids 2-1 on Saturday night to give Watson his first win.
"We'll wait for something bigger, like a playoff win, but there will be one," San Jose midfielder Chris Wondolowski said.
But there were some fireworks between Watson and Rapids coach Oscar Pareja as the two walked off the field following a testy game that featured a red-card ejection.
"It wasn't the prettiest game," said Watson. "But the results were good."
Neither coach would discuss their postgame conversation, but Pareja wouldn't deny that it had something to do with the red card to Rapids leading scorer Atiba Harris in the 18th minute.
"We'll keep it between us," said Watson.
Colorado played the final 72 minutes without Harris, who was ejected for sliding into Alan Gordon. Gordon was on the ground when Harris slid into his right leg.
"I'll have to look at the film before commenting on the play," Pareja said. "I can say we were frustrated by our play in the first half, but played better a man down in the second half."
Steven Lenhart scored his first goal of the season in the 11th minute to give San Jose a 1-0 lead, ending a two-match scoreless drought. The Earthquakes, shut out in their last two games, had scored only 13 goals in their first 15 games this season.
Watson replaced Frank Yallop after San Jose's 3-0 loss to Real Salt Lake on June 1. The Earthquakes (4-6-6) had only one win in their previous 11 matches and were 0-5-2 on the road under Yallop.
"He did a great job coming in here and commanding our locker room," Wondolowski said. "It was a bit similar to the way it was, but it was a great mix."
Nathan Sturgis scored in the 67th for Colorado (5-5-5), which snapped a six-match unbeaten streak. The Rapids were 3-0-3 in that span.
Neither team had a shot on goal before Lenhart outraced the defense for the ball a few strides past midfield. He drilled the ball from just outside the box into the upper right corner of the net past Clint Irwin to make it 1-0.
The Rapids had their first scoring chance in the 30th minute when Dillon Powers put a shot into the breadbasket of Busch for a save. Deshorn Brown had a follow up shot, but sailed a header over the crossbar.
Cronin extended the lead with his second goal of the season, picking up a loose ball and eluding Irwin as he came out beyond the penalty box then firing the ball into the back of the net.
Irwin later stopped Lenhart from in close, Colorado regained possession and Brian Mullan's cross set up Sturgis' goal.
Lenhart had a second goal waved off by an off-sides call in the 85th minute.
San Jose goalkeeper Jon Busch caught a shot by Edson Buddle with a minute left.
"Our play changed in the second half," Watson said. "We didn't have to take the game to them. They had to take the game to us."


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Norma Zenteno, a Houston musical icon and fixture at Sambuca, dies at 60 after cancer battle
Norma Zenteno, one of Houston's most enduring performers and part of a musical family dynasty, died Friday evening of breast cancer complications. She was 60 years old.
Her family kept fans updated via her Facebook page.
"We are heartbroken to report that Norma Zenteno passed away tonight," read the most recent post. "We have no words to express our sorrow at this time."
Zenteno announced she was battling Stage 2 breast cancer earlier this year. She started chemotherapy this month and was having a "rough time." Her kidneys started shutting down Wednesday, and she went into cardiac arrest early Thursday morning.
The fiery singer had a regular Thursday gig at Sambuca for years. She effortlessly mixed Latin, jazz and rock in both English and Spanish. Her band included brothers Javier, Bobby and Ernie.
Roberto Zenteno, Norma's father and a Mexican trumpet prodigy who led big bands in Houston for five decades, died in 2004. His daughter carried on his legacy, and despite early acclaim and chances to take it national, seemed happy showcasing it for fans in Houston.
"I've always been very comfortable with where I am," she told the Houston Chronicle in 2002. "I've had offers, but they weren't right for me at that moment."
A benefit concert that had been planned to help the family with medical expenses will still be held as "a tribute to the life of this beautiful and extraordinary woman," according to the family. The benefit will be from 3 to 8 p.m. on Sunday at SRO's Sports Bar & Café.


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Do-It-Yourself Project:
Sidewalks and Streets Survey
Create the Good
Email a link to this project guide
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Too many communities in the United States are designed for automobile travel, with very little consideration given to the needs of walkers. Lack of sidewalks, construction of sidewalks too close to roads and lack of maintenance are all factors that discourage people from walking regularly.
You can help make walking safer by teaching small groups to take simple "walkability" surveys. Once people rate an area and identify concerns, the group can take action to improve walkability. This toolkit will help you do that.
It takes about an hour to complete a walkability survey. More time is required to follow up and pursue the needed improvements. This will depend on the extent of improvements needed and community cooperation to get the work done.
Here are some great reasons to do this project:
- Increase exercise opportunities for your community
- Boost social interaction among neighbors by creating a walking-friendly environment
- Help reduce traffic congestion and pollution by leaving the car at home.
- Increase property values: Walkable communities are associated with higher home values!
Start with friends and neighbors. It's helpful to include someone with a physical challenge (e.g., someone using a walker, wheelchair or cane, or even someone who pushes a baby stroller). That will help you get a true sense of an area's walkability.
View and print the Sidewalks and Streets Survey in the 'Supplemental Materials' section below.
Map out a logical walking route in your community, ideally one that would take you and your neighbors to and from where you need to go. This could be in your own neighborhood or one surrounding your local faith-based group or senior center.
Choose a date and time for the Survey and gather the following materials:
- Street maps
- Clipboards, notepaper, pens and disposable or digital cameras (all important for documenting what needs to be improved)
- Comfortable walking shoes and, if needed, a hat and sunscreen
4,280 pedestrians were killed by motor vehicles in 2010 in the U.S., according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Print out and bring surveys and materials for each member of your group. Conduct the survey and see how your community stacks up.
After you've rated your walk and identified problem areas, review "Take Action: How to Improve Your Community's Rating" and work with your group to agree on and take action.
Visit www.CreateTheGood.org to connect with a range of opportunities to use your life experiences, skills and passions to benefit your community.
Now that you've identified the problems, you can find the answers. Consider these questions and see suggestions for taking action immediatly and in the longer term.
Did you have room to walk?
- Sidewalks or paths started and stopped
- Sidewalks broken or cracked
- Sidewalks blocked
- No sidewalks, paths or shoulders
- Too much traffic
What you can do immediately:
- Identify another (safer) route and share information with friends and neighbors
- Tell local traffic engineering or public works department about specific problems and provide a copy of the checklist
What you can your community can do with more time:
- Speak up at board meetings
- Write or petition the city for walkways and gather neighborhood signatures
- Make the local media aware of the problem
- Work with local transportation engineer to develop a plan for a safe walking route
Was it easy to cross streets?
- Road too wide
- Traffic signals made us wait too long or did not give us enough time to cross
- Crosswalks/traffic signals needed
- View of traffic blocked by parked cars, trees or plants
- Curb cuts were missing or in need of repair
What you can do immediately:
- Pick another route for now
- Tell local traffic engineering or public works department about specific problems and provide a copy of the checklist
- Trim trees or bushes that block the street and ask neighbors to do the same
- Leave nice notes on problem cars asking owners not to park there
What you can your community can do with more time:
- At city meetings, push for crosswalks, signals, parking changes and curb cuts
- Report to local traffic engineer the locations of parked cars that pose safety hazards
- Report illegally parked cars to the police
- Request that the public works department trim trees and plants
- Make the local media aware of the problem
Did drivers behave well?
- Backed without looking
- Did not yield
- Turned into walkers' path
- Drove too fast
- Sped up to make traffic lights or drove through red lights
- Stopped too close to crosswalk
What you can do immediately:
- Pick another route for now
- Set an example by slowing down and being considerate of others; encourage your neighbors to do the same
- Report unsafe driving to the police
What you can your community can do with more time:
- Petition for better law enforcement
- Request protected turns
- Ask city planners and traffic engineers for traffic-calming ideas
- Organize a neighborhood speed-watch program
Was it easy to follow safety rules?
- Cross at crosswalks or where you could see and be seen
- Stop and look left, right, left again, before crossing
- Walk on sidewalks or shoulders facing traffic
- Cross with the light
What you can do immediately:
- Educate your community about safe walking
What you can your community can do with more time:
- Encourage schools to teach walking safety. Help schools start safe-walking programs.
- Encourage corporate support for flextime so parents can walk children to school.
Was your walk plesant?
- Needs grass, flowers, trees
- Dogs off leashes
- Unsafe people
- Not well lit
- Dirty, litter, pollution
- Lots of traffic
- No resting places
What you can do immediately:
- Point out areas to avoid; agree on safe routes
- Ask neighbors to keep dogs leashed and fenced
- Report unleashed dogs to animal-control department and to your neighborhood association
- Report unlawful activity to the police
- Report lighting needs to the police or appropriate public works department
- Collect trash during your next walk by taking a trash bag along
- Plant tress and flowers in your yard
- Select an alternative route with less traffic
What you can your community can do with more time:
- Request increased police enforcement
- Start a crime-watch program in your neighborhood
- Organize a community cleanup day
- Sponsor a neighborhood beautification day
- Begin an adopt-a-street program
A quick health check:
- Could you not go as far or as fast as you wanted?
- Were you tired, short of breath or had sore feet or muscles?
- Was the sun really hot?
- Was it hot and hazy?
What you can do immediately:
- Start with short walks and work your way up to 30 minutes of walking most days
- Invite a friend along
- Walk along shaded routes where possible
- Use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher; wear a hat and sunglasses
- Try not to walk during the hottest time of day
What you can your community can do with more time:
- Get the local media to do a story about the health benefits of walking
- Call the recreation department about community walks
- Encourage corporate support for employee walking programs
- Plant shade trees along routes
- Have a sun-safety seminar
- Learn about unhealthy ozone days and the Air Quality Index (AQI)
*AARP would like to thank the Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center (www.walkinginfo.org) for providing the original content for improving your community's walkability rating.
City and county bureaucracies can be a challenge to persuade to make changes. You can get the ball rolling by identifying problem areas and calling them to public attention. In the meanwhile, identify alternative routes that can keep you and your community walking, moving and thriving.
- Rally your neighbors to work with the appropriate local traffic and transportation officials and with local government to add new walkways and sidewalks and help improve the safety and accessibility of your community.
- Contact your local public works and your county department of transportation or elected community representative to report broken, cluttered or otherwise unsafe sidewalks. Give them copies of your survey report and photos that demonstrate the problems.
- Ask city or county officials to install pedestrian and traffic signals to mark crosswalks and to add traffic-calming devices (such as speed bumps and traffic circles) to help control the speed of traffic. Make sure the timing of traffic signals is long enough to accommodate older pedestrians, people with disabilities and other slower-moving pedestrians.
- Organize a neighborhood watch group to prevent crime from taking place in your community. More awareness of activity in the neighborhood can reduce crime so your community can have safer streets that everyone can enjoy.
- Advocate for raised medians with curb cuts to easily accommodate all pedestrians and wheelchair users.
So Just Who Are the Players Who Can Help You Make a Difference?
City or County Public Works or Department of Transportation:
- Your public works agency can address concerns about placement and width of sidewalks and sidewalk maintenance. Responsibility for specific sidewalk issues may vary. For example, even though the city public works department often addresses sidewalk maintenance, the maintenance may actually be the responsibility of property owners. Adding a new walkway may require negotiating with the respective property owners about paying for it. This process is easier if a gap can be filled in, as opposed to installing a completely new walkway that crosses a number of private properties.
- Trimming bushes that overhang the sidewalk is the property owners' responsibility, but the city or county will send an official notice to request that property owners take care of it. If a property owner does not comply, a public works crew may trim the bushes and bill the property owner. In some neighborhoods, the homeowners' association is responsible for sidewalks.
- Some communities or neighborhoods have ordinances restricting installation of sidewalks or curbs for aesthetic reasons or to make the area appear to be less urban. In these communities, you must present the need for sidewalks to the city or county council, and it can be quite challenging. Consider directing your energies more effectively toward ensuring that neighborhood streets are well-maintained.
- If action on sidewalks is not possible, your group can still help make it safer to walk along the streets by urging that the city install traffic-calming measures such as roundabouts, speed tables or speed humps to reduce cut-through traffic or speeding cars. You can also organize a neighborhood watch group to deal with any criminal activity in your community. More awareness of activity in your neighborhood can reduce crime, which means the streets are safer for everyone to enjoy.
Other Community Partners:
- Contact your local public works department or elected community representative to report broken, cluttered or otherwise unsafe sidewalks. Consider forming an alliance with downtown merchants or others who may be interested in advocating for more effective streetlights, benches and shade trees to improve your community's appeal. Contact the planning department, which would be involved in improving streetscapes, or the parks department, which might be involved in planting trees. Local parent-teacher associations (PTA's) may also be interested in ensuring safe school routes.
- The traffic manager in the city or county department of transportation is responsible for controlling the speed of traffic through traffic signals. Make sure the timing of traffic signals is long enough to accommodate older pedestrians, people with disabilities and other slow-moving pedestrians.
- Signalized crosswalks with flashing lights or special signals activated by a walk sign are safest because they help reduce the number of pedestrians stranded at crosswalks when the light changes. New types of crosswalks that feature a striped path that lights up when activated by a pedestrian demonstrate the potential of technology to enhance pedestrian safety. Older residents particularly benefit from these types of improvements at major street crossings.
Pedestrian Mobility and Safety — Audit Guide – ite.org/PedAudits
This guide, written by AARP and the Institute of Transportation Engineers, explains the numerous issues related to pedestrian safety and mobility. It includes photos of what to look for and findings from surveys in four cities.
Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center – www.walkinginfo.org
Information includes walking basics, solutions and resources.
Walk Wise, Drive Smart – www.walk-wise.org
Learn from the experience of Hendersonville, NC, which is building community support to create pedestrian-friendly environments for older adults.
The Getting Around Guide – www.aarp.org/howtogetaround
This AARP guide can help you take advantage of fun, healthy, and economic ways for getting around your community, including walking, biking, and taking public transportation.
Model Design Manual for Living Streets – www.modelstreetdesignmanual.com/
The Model Street Design Manual was created by national experts in living streets concepts. The manual aims to have balanced street design that ensures safe and comfortable travel for pedestrians, cyclists, and transit users while also accommodating cars. The manual includes ways to make streets beautiful, environmentally sustainable, and lively.