text:
Canon Vixia HF100
Manufacturer: Canon Part number: 2708B001
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Accessories
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- One of a pair of Canon's first flash-based camcorders, the Canon Vixia HF100, delivers excellent HD video quality and performance in a tiny package.
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=Total price
as of 08/29/2014
CNET editors' review
price range: $1,999.00
- Reviewed by: Lori Grunin
- Reviewed on: 04/15/2008
- Released on: 04/08/2008
The good: Excellent video quality; fast focus; compact, attractive, and comfortable design.
The bad: Wind filter not as dependable as previous Canon models; manual focus pretty useless.
The bottom line: One of a pair of Canon's first flash-based camcorders, the Canon Vixia HF100, delivers excellent HD video quality and performance in a tiny package.
User reviews
Excellent video quality
by JO_1 on July 31, 2008
Pros: Video quality, ease of use (while filming), records on SDHC cards
Cons: Editing AVCHD, low light performance is ok (not great)
Summary: I like this camcorder a lot. After 2 years with a JVC GR-D650 I decided to upgrade to a high-def camcorder, and I am extremely happy I did. I watch ...
Summary: I like this camcorder a lot. After 2 years with a JVC GR-D650 I decided to upgrade to a high-def camcorder, and I am extremely happy I did. I watch recordings on a 46" 1080p screen (using HDMI connection) and it looks really great. Difference with SD is very obvious of course. Only con is that Low-light performance is just ok, not great.
I just use this as a point-and-shoot (don't use any manual controls) and I find it's great for that. I've seen some complaints about the little joystick next the the lcd screen but I don't have any issues with it.
To me AVCHD seems to be the way to go since you can play native AVCHD files directly on a blu-ray player, and Blu-ray will be rapidly replacing DVD.
The software that comes with the camera is basically only for downloading the AVCHD files - pretty useless for editing but that is similar to other camcorders I've had.
Please keep in mind that software is still catching up with AVCHD format. I was using Adobe Premiere El, but that doesn't support AVCHD. So I switched to Powerdirector 7 Ultra.
Editing the footage is a bit of a challenge. You need a powerful computer! I'm running Powerdirector 7 Ultra on an AMD 2.2GHz dual core with 2GB of RAM and it's slow going. I consider this CPU is a bit too weak so I got a quad core on order. So far, I have been editing in AVCHD format and then burning to DVD in SD(unfortunately). I'll get a blu-ray burner later when prices drop. The rendering/burning to DVD takes some time but is OK. Please make sure you install latest DirectX 9 or higher, or your soundtrack will be off.
I like a lot that the camera uses SDHC cards. Downloading is very fast compared to DV tape, plus you don't get the whine from the DVI tape rolling on your soundtrack.
Having large hands I struggled a little bit with the small size of the camera and location of the controls. I think Canon should move the record button to the left side of the camera so you can wrap your hand around it. Since I put an extended battery on the camera I found out that I can rest my thumb against this battery that sticks further out of the back of the camera. This makes it much easier to hold the camera.
In conclusion, I highly recommend this camera. Just make sure your computer is powerful enough or you are willing to upgrade.
12 out of 13 users found this user opinion helpful.
Very Pleased
by MiamiTechnoLawyer on June 18, 2008
Pros: Sharp Video,
Cons: Sharing Content
Summary: We just bought this for baby video and could not be more pleased. With a 16GB SD card (an A-Data purchased on Amazon for under $80) the whole set up ...
Summary: We just bought this for baby video and could not be more pleased. With a 16GB SD card (an A-Data purchased on Amazon for under $80) the whole set up came in under $740.00. SD is the way to go. A Blank DVD holds a little over 4GB, a Mini-DVD holds even less. With a built in hard drive if the drive crashes your camcorder is probably toast. SD is fast, small, and a 16GB card will hold a lot of footage without the need for a large amount of quality degrading compression.
I was concerned about image quality in low light. It has not been an issue to shoot indoors with just conventional indoor illumination (lamps, fixtures, florescent etc). The video is crisp and sharp. I am shooting in 24P Cinema Mode. The audio is clear (no tapes means no tape noise artifacts in recording or playback). If you compare this camera with a $3,000 3-CCD, Mini DV system or HD Discovery Channel you will be disappointed. If you comare it to any Mini-DV, HD, or DVD camcorder under $1,000.00 you will be delighted. For the price and size this is a superb great camcorder. Your amateur home video of friends and family has never looked this good before. The only problem is how to share the video once you shoot it.
9 out of 10 users found this user opinion helpful.
See demo's on Youtube
by mtmunsey on May 14, 2008
Pros: Unreal video and images
Cons: Haven't found any yet
Summary: I read the reviews on CNET and decided to buy from buydig.com which was the lowest price on the web ($649.00). I can not believe the video quality ...
Summary: I read the reviews on CNET and decided to buy from buydig.com which was the lowest price on the web ($649.00). I can not believe the video quality on this camera and how easy it is to use. I'm not a professional by any means, but this camera is nothing short of spectacular..I can't tell the difference between this quality and an HD broadcast. Watch the demo's on Youtube the HD quality is insane. I just hooked it up to my 56in Samsung and played the footage....UNREAL! I was suspect reading the reviews, but now I am a believer. YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED.
8 out of 8 users found this user opinion helpful.
by rob_runkle on July 23, 2008
Pros: Small, great image.
Cons: Slow to change modes, Included software is weak.
Summary: I held off updating my standard DV camcorder for years. Finally I found a camera that was HD, and used flash memory. In my research no one complained about the ...
Summary: I held off updating my standard DV camcorder for years. Finally I found a camera that was HD, and used flash memory. In my research no one complained about the compression quality either. I think that this technology has finally matured to work with good compression, with class 6 flash ram, etc..
I love the small size. That - along with the flash memory - was my strongest buying point.
I used it extensively over a recent hiking trip. Only had two issues. 1) It is slow to change modes from video to photos. Especially in that direction (video to photo). I think this is from having to read the card to verify space available. 2) I found myself sometimes erratically hitting the zoom button. No sure if my fault; probably.
The included software is ok, but weak. My computer can't handle the HD files very well, but I could upgrade the PC if I wanted to. The included software does have several options for me though. 1) I can export clips to SD file type, and that seems to work great. 2) I can save to standard DVD, and that seems to work fine also. I did find that there is a limit of 99 clips that can be written to a DVD at one time. I haven't gotten a chance to use the software for editing because my PC can't handle it.
I cannot get the camera to play into my HD TV through the mini HD. I think this is because of copy protection software in my TV, but not sure. I can get to play through the component out for video and audio out for audio. I think this is suppose to be HD quality (equivalent to HDMI) anyway. The picture looks great on HD. But, at this point the only way that I can see full HD is to run directly from the camera. I do not have an HD burner.
The video and photo quality is excellent. Even in low light, this is 10x better than my standard DV camcorder which is only 5-6 years old. A big part I believe is the large lens required for HD quality. So, even if you want to record in SD, this is a good purchase.
6 out of 7 users found this user opinion helpful.
I LOVE this camcorder. It is absolutely amazing.
by prettysavvy on May 30, 2009
Pros: I love the video quality of course. Crystal clear HD! Also, image stabilization is rather good. Easy to make dvds for standard definition if your home is not HD ready (like mine is not). Love the cinema fliming mode. What fun!
Cons: Hard to even complain, but: Tends to have a little trouble focusing really close on certain things. Camera and software manuals could be better. Software very basic. Strap is uncomfortable and hurts my hand after a few minutes. Short battery life.
Summary: Buying this camera was a great decision. I bought it used (not refurbished) for $525.00 (what a deal!!!) My fiance will be graduating from the United States Marine Corps ...
Summary: Buying this camera was a great decision. I bought it used (not refurbished) for $525.00 (what a deal!!!) My fiance will be graduating from the United States Marine Corps Bootcamp in July, so I wanted to make sure that I had a really good camcorder to film this VERY big and important day. I also wanted to make sure that I gave myself enough time to get to know the camera ahead of time.
At first I had actually purchased a Canon FS11 and very quickly returned it. It was just terrible! I was back at square one. Trying to decide which camcorder to buy can be overwhelming, especially during this transitional time going from standard definition to high definition. But I am SO SO HAPPY I PICKED THIS ONE!!!
As soon as I got it home and started using it, I was immediately THRILLED with the quality of the picture both on the camera and on my HDTV. I also hooked the camera up to my old tv just to see how that looked. It was okay for what it is (not even close to HD of course). Now I was ready to make some copies for my family and friends to have. Here is where my troubles began. I couldn't figure out how to do this! I got all stressed out and was actually ready to return this camcorder as well, because I thought it was too user-unfriendlly and limiting as far as viewing options go. Especially in a time when so many still do not have HDTV ready homes. I myself do not have any blueray, or blueray recorder. As far as easily sharing movies with others, I thought I was doomed. I read all of this stuff saying that I had to buy all of this expensive and complicated software just to enable me to convert these movies so I could put them on a regular DVD and I thought that perhaps I had made a mistake in my choice afterall. Well... that is just not so. There is an option in the Image Mixer software, when you first plug your camera in and it says "make disc". That's all you have to do. You don't even have to put the video on your pc if you don't want to. Just make sure that you are using DVD-R discs. Nobody tells you that, and that is why I was freaking out, I was using the wrong discs which weren't supported. Once I put a DVD-R disc in my PC, I was good to go. I find that watching the movies back on Standard Defintion TV from such discs is not too bad (better than my FS11 footage - LOL. I mean, eventually we will be ALL HD (all of us will... you included, no matter how much you might want to fight it), so all of this conversion stuff is only a temporary issue anyway.
A word of caution. If you plan on doing any type of editing on your movies in the future (i.e. after you get some good software, etc.) make sure that you keep a copy of the HD version (avchd / m2ts) on your pc or sd card.
I am really looking forward to purchasing some editing software and having some real fun with this baby. After reading what others have to say, I am thinking of getting Sony Vegas Studio 9 Platinum. I've also heard some good things about Pinnacle Studio 11 and 12, But the Sony sounds better to me. Let's also remember that avchd / m2ts is quite new, and therefore we are just seeing the tip of the iceburg with the editing software, etc. that will be available.
Also, one of the highllights of this camera for me is the cinema mode. It's just great. I also think that the light they they put on the camera is pretty decent for filming in a dark room (much better than using the night setting on the camera, which I personally think is horrible).
If you don't absolutely LOVE this camera, try reading up on it a little more and playing around with it. I think that for many of us this new HD thing can seem a little scary and overwhelming at first, but take a deep breath, research and have some fun. I'm glad I did. Returning this baby would have been a huge mistake.
I hope that my review here has helped someone else to NOT have to go through the dilemma that I did.
This camcorder is wonderful!!! AAA+++ and 1/2!
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
Great camcorder
by mmedic123 on October 10, 2008
Pros: Great pic quality. Image stabilization works well. Decent stills.
Cons: Takes getting used to. Cannot move it around fast while recording. Battery that comes with it has only 60-80 mins of recording time.
Summary: Get a bigger battery, Pinnacle Studio 12 and you're golden.
Summary: Get a bigger battery, Pinnacle Studio 12 and you're golden.
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
Fabulous Liittle Camera
by Losttsol on September 24, 2008
Pros: Easy to use. You'll be shooting HD video in 2 minutes upon opening the package. The video is superb for a sub $1000 amateur camera. The sound quality blew me away more than the video even. I've never had a camera with this level of sound clarity.
Cons: Bundled software is way low end. After playing around with it to make sure your camera works, go buy a good editing package. You will need it to do HD editing. Older software doesn't support HD content.
Summary: Perfect family camera. No reason to not buy an HD camera nowadays. Your kids won't ever know what a 4:3 picture even looks like anyways.
Summary: Perfect family camera. No reason to not buy an HD camera nowadays. Your kids won't ever know what a 4:3 picture even looks like anyways.
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
Excellent Little HD Cam
by robsargeant on September 20, 2008
Pros: Canon lense does great job creating amazing HD images. Has many manual features found on much more expensive cameras. Removable SDHC memory is a great plus too.
Cons: The joystick takes a while to get used to. Battery charge could last longer.
Summary: So far I'm impressed with this camera. I think it's ahead of its time. The editing software provided works well for me. My computer, (AMD 64 Athlon 2....
Summary: So far I'm impressed with this camera. I think it's ahead of its time. The editing software provided works well for me. My computer, (AMD 64 Athlon 2.7 Ghz, 1.7 gig ram ) recognized the files when I attached the supplied USB cable, and down loaded the footage in less than ten minutes. Rendering slow, after editing but that's to be expected with HD. Please read the owners manual to figure out how to activate the cameras many manual features, i.e. Manual Focus (page 50). It does work.
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
No Apple / Final Cut Support - Warning, Mac users don't purchase
by jhines18 on August 14, 2008
Pros: Nothing special
Cons: Can't use with Final Cut or Apple without a lot of expensive software and complicated conversions
Summary: I bought this camera excited to try it out and was quickly disappointed to find it couldn't work at all with my old G4. I had been thinking of ...
Summary: I bought this camera excited to try it out and was quickly disappointed to find it couldn't work at all with my old G4. I had been thinking of buying a macbook and decided this was the time to upgrade. I purchased the computer and found that in addition to not offering any compatible software, canon's proprietary format makes it so I first have to download with iMovie than from there to final cut. Besides taking forever to do this, I lose quality making the HD features pointless. I emailed canon and this was their response "If Final Cut Express does not support the files you should use iMovie to download them. We recommend that you contact Final Cut for assistance with inquiries regarding downloading using their software." Thanks for producing a PC only camera. I think it is false advertising to call it compatible with Apple.
4 out of 7 users found this user opinion helpful.
Worth every penny!
by gregzoe on April 9, 2008
Pros: Awesome video, great stills, perfect size.
Cons: None that I can find.
Summary: First off the video quality is excellent. I took some video indoors at low light and then took some outside where it was a sunny day. Both scenes played back ...
Summary: First off the video quality is excellent. I took some video indoors at low light and then took some outside where it was a sunny day. Both scenes played back with excellent color reproduction and clarity. The outside video was very impressive, the color reproduction and clarity were spot on. Blue skies were a perfect blue and green grass was a vibrant green. The sharpness of the picture was very clean.
The inside pictures were not quite as good, but that is because of the low light in my house. I needed to do some tweaking first, but even at the factory settings the picture was very good.
The auto focus is quick and the image stabilization works like a charm. The 12x zoom really gets you in tight and brings in those distant shots fast. The camera really takes some fantastic video.
The menu is easy to navigate and gives you loads of options. All the controls fit well in my hand, and I would say I have average size hands for a guy. Love the small size and it hardly weighs anything at all.
One thing that really impressed me was the still photos, they are above and beyond what I expected. Now granted this isn't a DSLR, but I think most people would be impressed with these photos, especially considering they are from a camcorder. Honestly for me this is all I need, why carry a separate point & shoot when this camcorder does it all. Very impressive photo quality.
Now please understand that I am a novice so I do not have the knowledge or experience as a lot of users. But as far as I am concerned the HF100 is worth every penny. Nothing better than being completely satisfied with a purchase. Awesome camera top to bottom.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
- Manufacturer: Canon
- Part number: 2708B001
- Description: From Canon's long history of optical excellence, advanced image processing, superb performance and technological innovation in photographic and broadcast television cameras comes the latest in high definition camcorders. Now, with the light, compact Canon VIXIA HF100, you can have stunning AVCHD (Advanced Video Codec High Definition) format recording with the ease and numerous benefits of Flash Memory. It's used in some of the world's most innovative electronic products such as laptop computers, MP3 players, PDAs and cell phones. Add to that the VIXIA HF100's Canon Exclusive features such as Canon's 3.3 Megapixel Full HD CMOS sensor and advanced DIGIC DV II Image Processor, SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization, Instant Auto Focus, 2.7" Widescreen Multi-Angle Vivid LCD and the Genuine Canon 12x HD video zoom lens and you have a Flash Memory camcorder that's hard to beat and unmistakably Canon.
- Packaged Quantity 1
- Product Type Camcorder - 1080p
- Camcorder Sensor Resolution 3.3 megapixels
- Effective Video Resolution 2.07 megapixels
- Digital Zoom 200 x
- Effective Photo Resolution 2.76 megapixels
- Camcorder Media Type Flash card
- Optical Sensor Size 1/3.2"
- Optical Sensor Type CMOS
- Digital Video Format AVCHD
- Image Stabilizer Optical (SuperRange)
- Max Shutter Speed 1/2000 sec
- Shooting modes Digital photo mode
- Shooting Programs Snow,
Sports mode,
Night mode,
Portrait mode
- Auto Focus Points (Zones) Qty 9
- White Balance Automatic,
- White Balance Presets Cloudy,
Fluorescent light (warm white),
Fluorescent light (cool white),
Tungsten light,
- Exposure Modes Program,
- Image Recording Format JPEG
- AV Interfaces HDMI,
Composite video/audio
Lens System
- Type 12 x x Zoom lens - 4.8 mm - 57 mm - F/1.8-3.0
- Lens aperture F/1.8-3.0
- Features Built-in lens shield
- Optical Zoom 12 x
- Lens system type Zoom lens
- Min focal length 4.8 mm
- Max focal length 57 mm
- Auto Focus TTL contrast detection
- Filter Size 37 mm
- Focus Adjustment Manual,
- Min Focus Range 0.4 in
- Zoom Adjustment Motorized drive
Additional Features
- Additional Features 24p Cinema Mode,
RGB primary color filter,
Dolby Digital AC-3 (2 channel) recording,
Histogram display,
Takes photos while movie recording,
PictBridge support,
USB 2.0 compatibility
- Remote control Camcorder remote control - Infrared
- Software Drivers & Utilities,
PIXELA Image Mixer
- Included Accessories Component video cable,
IR remote control,
USB cable,
Power adapter,
Audio / video cable
- Type 2.7 in LCD display
- Connector Type 1 x Microphone,
1 x Composite video/audio output,
1 x Headphones,
1 x USB,
1 x HDMI,
1 x Component video output
Memory / Storage
- Media type Flash card
- Memory Card Slot SD card
- Supported Memory Cards MultiMediaCard,
SD Memory Card
- Image Storage JPEG 1920 x 1440
- Video Recording Modes LP,
- Supported Battery Canon BP-809
- Supported Battery 1 x Canon BP-809 Li-ion rechargeable battery ( Included )
Audio Input
- Audio input type Microphone
- Microphone type Built-in
- Microphone Operation Mode Stereo
Manufacturer Warranty
- Service & Support 1 year warranty
- Service & Support Details Limited warranty - 1 year
Viewfinder / Display
- Display Features Rotating
Physical Characteristics
- Width 2.9 in
- Depth 5.1 in
- Height 2.5 in
- Weight 13.4 oz
- Sony LCE X3TH - case for camcorder (34881135)344.95
- Sony SPK HCH - marine case for camcorder (35266605)299.00 - 299.99
- Porta-Brace Rain Slicker RS-55 - rain jacket for camcorder (31059775)239.84 - 242.17
- Canon HC 4100 - hard case for camcorder (30584700)239.95 - 256.30
- JVC KA-551U tripod adapter (32090695)295.00
- KATA PRO Video Collection CCC-10-A - carrying bag for camcorder (34400943)325.00
- KATA PRO Video Collection CCC-1A - case for camcorder (34931653)299.00
- Panasonic AG-HT30G - hard case for camcorder (30964047)270.34
- Panasonic P2HD-CASE - carrying bag for camcorder (33921985)363.95
- Portabrace P2HD-EFP-BAG - carrying bag for camcorder (34529516)351.95
Manufacturer info
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Canon products on Shopper.com
- Manufacturer:Canon
- Address:
One Canon Plaza, Lake Success, NY 11042
- Phone: 516-328-5000
- Email: firstname.lastname@example.com


text:
Preparations for 2008 Elections
Witnesses testified about election procedures, voting machine technology, operations by state and local registrars, as well as accuracy and… read more
Witnesses testified about election procedures, voting machine technology, operations by state and local registrars, as well as accuracy and accountability issues in preparation for the 2008 general election. They also focused on civil rights concerns, enforcement of voting laws, and oversight by federal agencies and independent observers. close
*The transcript for this program was compiled from uncorrected Closed Captioning.
People in this video
- Becker, Grace Chung Acting Assistant Atty. General Department of Justice->Civil Rights Division
- Benson, Jocelyn Professor Wayne State University (Detroit, MI)->Law
- Clarke Avery, Kristen Co-Director NAACP Legal Defense Fund->Political Participation Group
- Cortes, Pedro Secretary of State Pennsylvania
- Farrell, David Deputy Assistant Secretary of Ohio
- Hancock, Paul F. Acting Deputy Asst. Atty. Gene (Former) Department of Justice->Civil Rights Division
- Lewis, Doug Executive Director National Association of Election Officials
- Narasaki, Karen K. President Asian American Justice Center
- O'Leary, Bryan Consultant Crowell Moring Law Firm->Public Policy
- Suleman, Rokey General Registrar Fairfax County, VA->Office of Elections
- Terry, James Chief Public Advocate Consumers Rights League
- Conyers, John Jr. U.S. Representative [D] Michigan
- Davis, Artur U.S. Representative [D] Alabama
- Davis, Susan U.S. Representative [D] California
- Ehlers, Vernon J. U.S. Representative [R] Michigan
- Ellison, Keith U.S. Representative [D] Minnesota
- Franks, Trent U.S. Representative [R] Arizona
- Gonzalez, Charles "Charlie" A. U.S. Representative [D] Texas
- Jordan, James "Jim" D. U.S. Representative [R] Ohio
- Lofgren, Zoe U.S. Representative [D] California
- McCarthy, Kevin U.S. Representative [R] California
- Nadler, Jerrold U.S. Representative [D] New York
- Watt, Melvin U.S. Representative [D] North Carolina
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Telephone lines were opened for viewer comments.
A video was shown of an October 29 interview in Somerville, N.J. with…

subset: commoncrawl


text:
The cat-and-mouse game between media companies and pirates has a long and sordid history. Currently, "big content" is relying on the Copyright Alert System, a "six-strikes" program that warns users pirating media a half-dozen times before throttling their download speeds. According to a report by Variety, there may be a different system on the horizon. Comcast… Read More
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Microsoft cautions 'Piracy Lurks Everywhere'
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Despite being a long time Uli Jon Roth fan (Scorpions), I openly admit to being fooled into thinking this might be a return to his Electric Sun sound as "promised" by advance notices. After all, he has been embracing his past more and more in both his solo performances and his appearances with the Scorpions.
Having said that, when I first listened to this, I wanted to give it 2 stars only. Now, I am not against the music Uli has been making the last 15 years+ or so as I do have Aquila Suite, Prolouge to the Symphonic Legends and Transcendental Sky Guitar (Parts 1 & 2) and like them all, however my expectations ruined the first listen of this CD.
Then I decided to pop it in again and I am happy I did. I would most likely give this 3.5 stars if I could, only because I think "side 1″, if you can call it that, is not nearly as good as "side 2″. I rate the second half of this release as some of the best music he has ever created, including Electric Sun.
By the way, for those expecting an Electric Sun revival, I think this CD is closer to Earthquake/Firewind than Beyond the Astral Skies (his worst release in my opinion-although still good). Give this a few spins…..it is a solid 4 star release (3.5 for the first half and 4.5 for the second half)
Uli Jon Roth Biography - Uli Jon Roth Discography - All Heavy Metal Bands
Since the early 1970 s Uli Jon Roth has been a household name, be it from his work with the Scorpions, his own band Electric Sun, composing symphonies and concertos and sometimes performing with symphony orchestras throughout Europe. Uli Jon Roth has returned to form with his first real rock record since 1985 s Beyond the Astral Skies . Under A Dark Sky is the first official release in the long-awaited series of Symphonic Legends, which is a cycle of music written by Uli for his all-encompassing Sky Of Avalon project. Fans of the Scorpions and Uli Jon Roth alike, will be in awe of the guitar master once again as he delivers his next masterpiece.
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Despite being a long time Uli Jon Roth fan (Scorpions), I openly admit to being fooled into thinking this might be a return to his Electric Sun sound as "promised" by advance notices. After all, he has been embracing his past more and more in both his solo performances and his appearances with the Scorpions.
I had the privilege of hearing them live at the Orange Blossom in Exeter, CA and enjoyed them tremendously.
Ulrich Roth is, along with Deep Purple's Ritchie Blackmore, the progenitor and pioneer of the movement to fuse Art Music with Heavy Metal/Hard Rock. The impact of his music is monumental: without Uli, there would have been no Randy Rhoads or Yngwie Malmsteen. As hard as that idea might be for the legions of Rhoads and Malmsteen clones, anyone taking a concentrated listen to any of the '70's Scorpions or early Electric Sun output would make the same judgement. One of the biggest differences between Uli and the Malmsteen/Rhoads factions is the fact that Roth has been more serious in integrating the distorted electric guitar into the orchestra, as opposed to writing Paganini-worshipping, lead guitar fixated "concertos" with silly orchestration. With this album, Roth has reached the peak of his compositional powers, incorporating most successfully operatic, chorale, intricate piano, and authentically symphonic variables into the Rock/Metal genre. No other artist or release has done this as effectively, up to this point in time. I should also mention that, from a purely lead guitar playing perspective, Uli's overall tone, attack, and sense of dynamics has become at least equal to the best Rock/Metal players in history, such as Jeff Beck, Blackmore, Schenker, etc.
When I first bought this cd, I had to prepare myself for a listen that would be almost entirely non-Metallic. Once I got past that, I was floored by how advanced that Uli's writing has become. He really is a legitimate composer that happens to play guitar, instead of a lead guitar player struggling to arrange heavy metal music for an orchestra. The guitar playing, like the first Sky of Avalon cd, comes in bursts for the most part, showing up at the best time to enchance the effect of it against the other instruments. He perfected the place of the guitar among the other orchestral instruments, unlike others whom just rewrote the cello cadenza parts for electric guitar.
I realize that alot of people here wouldn't be wild about the arty nature of this cd: the choirs, the length, etc. The fact is, the great majority of folks don't like to have to focus when they listen to a Rock/Metal cd, preferring to listen to the same song structures ad infinitum. For them, music is mostly entertainment, which of course is fine. But, as a musician and composer, I can't help but declare my profound admiration for what Uli has accomplished here. I think this is by far the best Rock release in well over 10 years.
I have read where people compared this to the old '70's releases of ELP, King Crimson, etc. This doesn't sound anything like those artists, in fact this sounds like something completely individual. That's the highest compliment I can pay any work of art.
I give this an easy 5 out of 5. This is one of those cds I know I'll get more out of each time I listen to it, and that is so rare for cds today.
I'm very grateful that this release exists: I find it tremendously inspiring and affirming. Most highly reccomended.
A few days ago on Sep 23, 2008 I was fortunate enough to see Uli live. He performed the entire Under A Dark Sky work as well as Scorpions, Electric Sun, & Jimi Hendrix classics. After the show I talked to Uli at length regarding the Dark Sky CD. He prefers to call it a "concept album" as opposed to a rock opera. What ever you want to call it, the CD is a masterpiece from a very talented artist. The spirituality of Dark Sky comes through as Uli makes a statement of "the state of the world today and how we fit into it", as he told me.
If you appreciate a grand work, in the style of classical concertos, with many various tempos, this is for you. Enjoy.
Soaring, virtuoso guitarwork; metal seamlessly flowing as one with Beethoven (or, arguably, Wagner); extraordinary vocalists Mark Boals and Liz Vandall (complete with a choir), in three languages, furtively and dramatically crying out for peace and hope, challenging humankind to return to the One who guides us to the path of restoration – such is this new masterpiece of Uli Jon Roth and his band Sky of Avalon. The music alone takes hold of the listener, sending one's emotions and spirit through a maze of exhiliration, fascination, quiet reflection, elation, sadness, and hopelessness. And then you turn a corner and it resolves with the final promised celebration of joy. In my opinion, the CD will equally please both classical fans and seasoned rockers. Whatever musical genre, the listener with a heart craving for answers finds hope in the message of this amazing work. And the consumer just craving a concert that musically takes their ears everywhere in the universe will (literally) think they've died and gone to heaven.


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INDIANAPOLIS -- Thomas Dimitroff is at his 26th NFL Scouting Combine, first attending as a high schooler with his father, Tom Dimitroff, Sr., and then as a scout and administrator with the New England Patriots. Now a 48-year-old, six-year veteran general manager of the Atlanta Falcons, he restructured the front office around him in January to reshape the direction of the franchise. "Obviously 4-12 was a challenging season, disappointing season for us," Dimitroff said. "Now the real fun begins." The Falcons are relatively young in scouting from top to bottom, and Dimitroff said he has a sound staff of researchers who are budding evaluators. "We focused on our personnel department with what we needed to adjust," Dimitroff said. "We needed some teeth, we needed some experience on the personnel side." Atlanta added Scott Pioli, an elite-type evaluator in Dimitroff's words, as assistant general manager. Pioli and the pro scouting department is projecting what could take place in free agency and setting Atlanta's "needs board." "He's going to be a very important seat at the table," Dimitroff said of Pioli. A chief priority is continuing to build blocking protection around "No. 2," quarterback Matt Ryan. That could be solved in free agency, but Dimitroff is another combine with his eye on prospect targets with the No. 6 overall pick. Or, he says with a coy smile, a higher pick. The Falcons moved up in a trade with the Cleveland Browns in 2011 to draft Alabama wide receiver Julio Jones. Dimitroff orchestrated the trade to climb 21 spots to get the player the franchise identified as a must-have. "I always want to have the light on for business," Dimitroff said. "When you ever are able to cultivate trades, it's about being able to be honest with people. Moving up from the late 20s into six, that was difficult. I thought that was going to be a multi-tier trade to be honest with you. ... Honestly in the top 10 it's a little easier to move around now." It was at the Scouting Combine where Jones cemented his status as a top-10 prospect, running a blazing 4.39 40-yard dash. Could a repeat be in the offing with South Carolina defensive end Jadeveon Clowney or offensive tackles Greg Robinson (Auburn) -- two freakish athletes with the ability to start, and possibly star, at positions of great need for the Falcons? "By draft time we'll have myriad contingencies and scenarios," Dimitroff said. "We throw out some really interesting scenarios, sometimes throwing out moving up in an unprecedented way. ... In my mind it's an outstanding top-10 draft. That's exciting for us. Rarely are you a team with a marquee, and franchise-type quarterback picking at six or earlier -- that's not foreshadowing, but six or earlier."
- Sports & Recreation
- American Football
- Atlanta Falcons
- Thomas Dimitroff
- Scott Pioli


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Human trafficking is an extensive problem worldwide. Even though many of these crimes occur outside of the public eye, the impacts are very real. According to the FBI, sex trafficking is the fastest growing business of organized crime and the third largest criminal enterprise in the world.
By Congressman Robert Hurt
It was meant to be.
When Alicia Schneider learned her adaptive physical education students at Liberty High School wouldn't be able to participate in Roanoke's Special Olympics this year because it was supposed to be held over Bedford County's spring break, she knew she needed to take action.
And act she did.
Ukraine's army, such as it is, provides a good illustration about why Ukraine is so vulnerable to Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin's efforts to pull it apart.
You know, I didn't want to spend a column on that backward Nevada rancher who has made such a fool out of himself trying to graze his cattle for free on government-owned land.
But he's so typical of many American conservatives these days that I just couldn't resist. If they were to truly pay attention here, many Republicans could learn a lesson about how to get back into the good graces of the modern American voter and finally win some national elections.
By Donald E. Lewis
I agree with the lawsuit against the EPA.
I am concerned they do not mention the chemical companies involvement in the Chesapeake Bay pollution of the nitrogen and phosphorus. The Monsantos and other big rich chemical companies have over load farmers for years. The cow manure is not the cause as our government is trying to make us believe.
More than 840,000 veterans call Virginia home and more than 20 million reside in the United States. They have served on battlefields across the globe, been stationed at bases both at home and abroad, and spent months, and even years, away from loved ones. They have sacrificed greatly to defend the freedoms you and I enjoy each day. In turn, it is our duty to ensure that they have access to the care needed when their military service is over.
Copyright © 2014
The Bedford Bulletin is your source for local news, sports, events, and information in Bedford County and Bedford, VA and the surrounding area.


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Women's Nike Shox NZ EU Running Shoes
Featuring the looks you want and the functionality you need, the Nike Shox NZ EU Running Shoes are ready for your next run. Designed with a stylish one-piece upper, these kicks also have a special lacing system that offers maximum comfort and reduces weight on the top of the foot. But this iteration has even more to offer. As a member of the Nike Flash Pack, these runners boast 3M technology that reflects light for a flashy bolt that is sure to get you noticed with every step, no matter what time of day you run.
If you love the feel and ride of traditional Nike Shox, but want a faster and lighter alternative, the Shox NZ EU runners are for you. The iconic Nike Shox 4-column support under the heel adds a recognizable look, as well as superior support and sock absorption. The BRS 1000 carbon rubber outsole helps to provide traction as you rack up the miles, while Phylon foam adds an extra layer of plush cushioning underfoot.
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CATEGORIES DVDsLove is in the air this week on DVD -- in all its weird permutations. First you have Ben Stiller as 'Greenberg,' a fortysomething lost soul looking for love and meaning and finding it in a most unusual place. 'Chloe' ratchets up love (and lovemaking) by throwing a wrench into a seemingly happy family in the form of an escort to test marital fidelity. Next there's 'Our Family Wedding,' a comedy that pits an African-American family against a Mexican-American family when their kids decide to get married. And lastly there's the love-hate relationship of 'The Bounty Hunter,' which pits ex-marrieds Gerard Butler and Jennifer Aniston against each other in a comedy about (you guessed it) a bounty hunter who has to track down his ex-wife. Read on. 'Greenberg'
What It's About: New Yorker Roger Greenberg (Ben Stiller), a single, fortyish, neer-do-well with no job and no life, agrees to house-sit for his successful/married-with-children brother in L.A. in the hopes of restarting his life. He tries to reconnect with his former bandmate (Rhys Ifans) and ex-girlfriend (Jennifer Jason Leigh), but reanimating the past has its pitfalls, and Greenberg soon finds himself forging a connection with his brother's much younger personal assistant, Florence (Greta Gerwig), an aspiring singer and also something of a lost soul.
It's Kinda Like: 'Garden State' meets 'The Graduate'
What We Say: Director Noah Baumbach loves to explore the intricacies and dynamics of family relationships, particularly those that have been come to be called dysfunctional. In 'The Squid and the Whale' he dissected the antagonistic relationship between a mother and father and how it affected the kids; in 'Margot at the Wedding,' he ripped open a soured sister-sister relationship for all that it was worth. Here he focuses on an irresponsible middle-aged man still searching for himself and the meaning of life, and making a tentative stab at finding love and happiness. | Rotten Tomatoes Reviews
What It's About: In Atom Egoyan's remake of the French thriller 'Nathalie ...,' Catherine (Julianne Moore) and David (Liam Neeson) are at first glance a perfect, happily married couple, but suspicion and mistrust bubble up from below the surface. When Catherine begins to suspect David of infidelity, she hires an escort, Chloe (Amanda Seyfried), to seduce him and test his loyalty. But the plan backfires when Chloe's sexual involvement with David -- and the entire family -- begins to escalate.
It's Kinda Like: 'Fatal Attraction meets 'The Lickerish Quartet'
What We Say: Indie filmmaker Egoyan got an A-list cast for this erotic thriller that displays the acting (and physical attributes) of a beautiful cast (including Max Thieriot as the couple's son) and pumps adrenalin as if the director were channeling Brian De Palma. The film just drips and oozes sensuous beauty but begins to fall apart when the story line -- and the game played between Moore and Seyfried -- becomes a little too far-fetched and unbelievable. | Rotten Tomatoes Reviews
'Our Family Wedding'
What It's About: This clash-of-cultures comedy about two overbearing dads (Forest Whitaker and Carlos Mencia) who attempt to put aside their differences to plan a wedding for their children, Marcus (Lance Gross) and Lucia (America Ferrera), catalogs just about every mild racial slur and stereotype without really offending anyone. Which is what the filmmakers are going after -- a sit-com movie that pits African-Americans against Mexican-Americans without gunfire.
It's Kinda Like: 'Guess Who's Coming to Dinner' for the 21st century
What We Say: This cute idea for a film goes south shortly after the opening credits when the two dads -- who don't yet know that their respective kids are engaged -- meet cute when tow-truck company mogul Mencia tows away rich Disc Jockey Whitaker's expensive sports car: Let the animosity begin. Though the film tries to make the statement that when you marry someone, you marry their entire family, we kept hoping the lovely couple would elope and let their families stew in their respective juices. But no such luck: the wedding goes on, sweet but way too anticlimactic | Rotten Tomatoes Reviews
'The Bounty Hunter'
What It's About: A down-on-his-luck bounty hunter (Gerard Butler) gets his dream assignment when he's asked to track down his bail-jumping ex-wife, a reporter (Jennifer Aniston) investigating a murder cover-up. He's looking forward to an easy payday and sweet revenge; she just wants to get the goods on corrupt police. When she gives him the slip and he has to track her down, they find themselves on the run for their lives -- which, in these types of comedies, brings the antagonists closer together.
It's Kinda Like: 'Did You Hear About the Morgans?' meets 'Midnight Run' meets 'Mr. & Mrs. Smith'
What We Say: This is such a typical and predictable rom-com that it didn't even bother us that Butler's mumbled dialogue couldn't be understood half the time -- we could have muted the film and still figured out what was happening. Butler's such a fish out of water here that not even Aniston's cute posturings and liveliness could pump up any enthusiasm for this pair -- or the lame story line. | Rotten Tomatoes Reviews
Other New July 13 DVD Releases:
'The Film Noir Classic Collection Volume 5'
'The Greatest'
'Middle of Nowhere'
Check out other new July 13 DVD releases at OnVideo.


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Under construction.
For further information about AALE's Charter School Accreditation Program,
please contact:
American Academy for Liberal Education
127 S. Peyton Street, Suite 210
Alexandria, VA 22314
(703) 717-9719
For upcoming Board reviews of K-12 schools see:
"Upcoming Board Reviews" located under Higher Education on aale.org home page.
Thank you and we apologize for any inconvenience.
Document List for Charter School Accreditation Program


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I find it fascinating when new words appear on the horizon of human culture. Through some perceived need, a novel concept emerges in the peripheries of language and begins to reshape dialogue. I imagine that the word "sustainability" first sailed into human consciousness in the 1960s, but was shared only in small groups of like-minded individuals. In the first years of the new millennium, however, the word has been branded on cereal boxes, t-shirts, campaign ads, canvas bags and energy companies, but as this word has become increasingly visible, its meaning has remained ambiguous. In ecology, sustainability refers to a biological community's ability to diversify and survive over time. I think that this is a good place to start.
As we move into the 21st century, we face unprecedented challenges. The environment is being destroyed, much of the world is at war, and our nation has a tremendous healthcare problem. These statements are grounded in fact, and though various sources may stir up uncertainty, there is not enough evidence to the contrary. With these issues in mind, I believe it is clear that our culture is sick. We are perpetuating inequity, we are demolishing the earth, and we have lost touch with our own bodies. In short, we are eliminating our ability to sustain.
Let me clarify before I go any further. By culture, I am not referring to our American culture, for the values and aspirations that our country was founded on are truly remarkable achievements of the human imagination, which continue through to this day. However, by and large, the citizens of westernized nations have accepted their role as consumers, silently assenting to the means of production and establishments of power.
Don't agree? Then ask yourself who manufactures your food or produces your energy, and why so many Americans are diagnosed with obesity, asthma, and cancer. It is unsettling to find that there are bugs in our cultural operating system, and it takes an open mind to look past the media and find the truth. It takes an open mind to believe in sustainability.
If ecological sustainability refers to a biological community's ability to diversify and survive, what does sustainability mean to a human community? Though clearly anthropocentric, I believe that it is necessary to recognize why this task is different for humans than for other species. We, humans, are wrapped up in a Gordian knot of religions, ethnicities, politics and sexualities, which prevent reconciliation and prohibit progress. Though non-human biological communities thrive with diversity, humans have historically done a wretched job of embracing it, and it is killing us. Our ability to incorporate multiple worldviews in an effort to create culture has been trumped by our desire to proselytize a consumer culture that dictates a constructed view of normalism. To be clear, I do not believe that Western culture is bad, but heavy doses of any cultural assumptions are bound to create destruction.
Fortunately, the world is waking up. Novel words and concepts are beginning to enter our communities and alter our culture, providing us with creative solutions to problems on separate planes of consciousness.
So what does sustainability mean?
Avoiding a strict definition, I believe that it is intended to give us pause, among our many activities, and offer us the opportunity to question our assumptions. The evolutionary unfolding of human consciousness has been a remarkable process, and now we stand at a tipping point. The techniques of survival, which have proved so successful, are now antiquated, and it is time to rethink our strategies. We now have the opportunity to intentionally diversify our communities and to dedicate ourselves to the health of the future. In order to do so, however, we must make sure to pause, question our immediate assumptions, and act from a desire to sustain life and to create culture.
Sustainability: The admission that we are the most powerful agents of our collective destiny.


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Statements from the Georgia: 2012 U.S. House - District 11's race
U.S. Rep. Phil Gingrey gave the government the power to electronically spy on Americans without a warrant.
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Sarasota Luxury 2 bed, 2 bath Condo in Sarasota
- bedrooms 2
- baths 2
- sleeps 6
- pool yes
- hot tub no
- pets allowed yes
- type Condo
- community Serenata Condominiums
- rates (USD) $ 1,500 - $ 3,000 / month
vacation rental description
This is our personal second home that is available to trusted guests. We bought it new and endeavored to furnish it beautifully. It is a luxurious 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom residential condominium in a resort style community called Serenata. Both
bedrooms have ensuite bathrooms. It boasts large open living/dining room and
screened balcony with great sunset views from third floor. There is also full size washer/dryer in unit. Located 9.5 miles from Lido beach (St. Armands Circle), and 5 miles
from downtown Sarasota. This is a newer gated community with a large
heated pool, club house, and great exercise facility, all in the
same area. Includes tennis court as well. Starbucks, Publix, CVS Pharmacy, and Panera Bread Company within walking distance and just across the street. Very close to other shopping, restaurants, theatres. 4 miles east of Sarasota/Bradenton Airport
and 45 minutes south of Tampa Airport. Condo is fully furnished
with all the usual ammenties and three televisions with cable.
Cordless telephones in each of three main rooms. High speed wireless
internet access included. Dining table seats 6. Living room has
immediate seating for 5. Queen bed in master and two twin beds in second master bedroom. Queen pullout couch in living room. There is a large resort style heated pool with fountains. Email us and we will send you a virtual tour of our unit. You need bring nothing but your bathing suit and beach towel as everything else is provided and included. You will not be disappointed. Please note that it is difficult to continuously update the calendar as this unit is advertised in multiple locations so we do NOT use the calendar option of this website. Weel behaved pets are welcome if under 30 pounds.
vacation rental location
property availability
- dates with deals
- unavailable dates
Last modified on 11-11-2010 at 9:00 AM.
email owner view full calendar
Mark Hazell 613-296-3389
condo rental amenities
1200 square foot condo on third floor with vaulted ceilings
large screened balcony with third floor two sided sunset view
Large heated swimming pool
Large three tiered deck around pool with chairs, tables, etc...
Great fitness facility inside club house
Club house, fitness, and pool are all adjacent to one another
Electronic Gated Access for residents and guests
In suite washer and dryer
Car wash and vacuum facility on site...very nice!!!
activities and attractions in Sarasota Gulf Coast Central
Exercise facility
Shopping next door
StarBucks across the street within walking distance
vacation rental rates
Call for your customized quote as rates may vary depending on term.
$2000- $3000 per month: December- April
$1500 per month: May-November
Mark Hazell 613-296-3389
accepted payment methods
Prior to paying a reservation deposit, always verify payment instructions by calling the phone number displayed on this listing page. By contacting the owner directly and paying by an approved method - credit card, paypal, check or bank transfer - your reservation payment will be protected up to $1,000.Learn more in our Security Center
Top things to do in Sarasota
- Siesta Key Beach
- Mote Aquarium
- Swimming
- Golf
Top things to do on a budget
- Lido Beach
Top things to do with a family
- Beaches close by
- Resort style pool
Mark Hazell , owner


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Lions tour: North fit for Saturday's Australia Test
British and Irish Lions winger George North has been passed fit for Saturday's first Test against Australia after recovering from his hamstring problem.
North was a doubt for the series opener at Suncorp Stadium after sustaining the injury a week ago, but assistant coach Rob Howley says he has fully recovered.
"George came through a fitness test this morning and I've never seen him in better shape. He'll be available and that's a big boost for us,"


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TV and radio appearances by Nation writers and editors, big Nation announcements.
A recent NBC/Wall Street Journal poll reports—perhaps unsurprisingly—that President Obama's approval numbers are at an all-time low. With 60 percent of Americans polled disapproving of Obama's foreign policy and another 71 percent believing America is "on the wrong track," The Nation's editor and publisher Katrina vanden Heuvel appeared on Morning Joe to discuss "how we got here and how we can fix it" with political commentator Nicole Wallace, former White House Press Secretary Ari Fleischer, and political strategist Anita Dunn. Vanden Heuvel notes that this is not the first time Americans have lost faith in political institutions, especially when engaging in foreign affiars: "Americans want to engage with the world but they don't want to listen to the armchair warriors."
—Victoria Ford
In his interview with Ian Masters, Nation contributing editor Stephen Cohen discusses the dangerous tensions between Washington and Moscow. Unlike other regional conflicts, Cohen states that the violence in Ukraine "is global…and the destiny of our children and grandchildren is playing out." Cohen also critiques the Obama administrations lack of statesmanship and diplomacy: "This is [Obama's] defining moment. This is what Roosevelt called his rendezvous with destiny and [Obama] seems to flee [his] destiny." As the Washington hawks continue to take incremental action, Cohen asserts that we're in the "worst American-Russian crisis since the Cuban missile confrontation."
—Crystal Kayiza
The recent downing of flight MH17 over Ukraine has received a huge amount of attention from the press, but, according to Nation editor and publisher Katrina vanden Heuvel, neither the mainstream media nor our government are adequately acknowledging the already violent atmosphere that surrounded the crash. On Democracy Now! this morning, vanden Heuvel explained that the tragedy should have presented an opportunity to end violence that she says has already escalated into civil war: "There should be a renewed effort, not to trigger more violence, but to trigger cease-fire, to trigger talks that could end the humanitarian catastrophe in the southeast of Ukraine."
—Hannah Harris Green
"The shootdown of [Malaysian Airlines MH17] was something we couldn't foresee," Stephen Cohen said Tuesday on the John Batchelor Show. "Historians will look back and say that these nearly 300 souls that died on that plane disaster were the first nonresidential victims of the new cold war." The conflict, Cohen said, has worsened as a result of the Kiev government's bombing and mortaring of two large pro-Russian cities in eastern Ukraine—where scores of civilians, including many women and children, have died. Why is Kiev doing this? And why is the White House going along with it? Cohen provided a plausible (and highly concerning answer): "To bate Russia, Putin, into intervening militarily so that NATO will intervene militarily. And that means, somewhere, someone in a position of influence wants a Russian war with NATO and that means a Russian-American war."
—Alana de Hinojosa
Nation contributing editor Stephen Cohen discussed Russian and American media reactions to the MH17 crash on the Thom Hartmann Program Friday. "Alas, the American mainstream press is saying, essentially…the shoot-down of that commerical aircraft is the fault of Russian President Vladimir Putin," says Cohen, contending that the American press does not adequately address the complex series of events that led to the crash, or its own government's involvement in the catastrophe. In a "mirror image" of the American account, Russian media speculate that the United States is at fault because it empowered Kiev to wage a heavy artillery plane assault on Eastern cities in Ukraine, which in turn allowed rebels access to air defense equipment. According to Cohen, this conflict is part of what he calls the "new Cold War" that has been going on since at least February.
—Hannah Harris Green
There is an ongoing crisis in Ukraine, says Stephen Cohen, and the mainstream media is not doing enough to contextualize the fighting. On Democracy Now!, Cohen explained that when Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 was shot down over eastern Ukraine yesterday, American audiences didn't have the information at hand to understood what brought us to this horrific crossroads. Cohen says, "The people who died, nearly 300, are the first victims, non-residential victims, of the new cold war."
—Douglas Grant
Palestinian civilians are bearing the brunt of Israel's ongoing military assault on Gaza, says Sharif Abdel Kouddous. "Just a few hours after the ceasefire that Israel had announced," Kouddous explained on Democracy Now! this morning, "the Israeli military began to pound Gaza from the land, from air, from the sea, with naval guns, with apache helicopters, with F-16 strikes." With this fresh round of attacks, 56 children have now been killed during the assault on Gaza. A TV production company, a rehabilitation hospital and a hospital that shelters 400 children have also been targeted.
—Hannah Harris Green
This Sunday, Katrina vanden Heuvel appeared on ABC's This Week and challenged Bill Kristol, editor of The Weekly Standard, on Iraq and American foreign policy. Vanden Heuvel called Kristol one of the "architects of catastrophe that have cost this country trillions of dollars, thousands of lives." She added, "This country should not go back to war. We don't need armchair warriors, and if you feel so strongly, you should, with all due respect, enlist in the Iraqi Army."
—Victoria Ford
Yesterday, Melissa Harris-Perry appeared on All In with Chris Hayes to discuss the birth of the interracial Moral Mondays movement. She told Hayes that this initiative goes against many Northern liberals' perception of the South, which they see as "so utterly backward and so utterly racially divided." The reality is more complicated, she explains: "There is a level of intimacy, interracially in the US South that hasn't always led to equality but has meant that there have been moments when interracial political movements could emerge." This history of fusion movments since the aboliton of slavery should keep us from seeing Moral Mondays as game-changing, says Harris-Perry,"there are strategic partnerships, but we probably should not expect enduring, long-term coalitional change."
—Hannah Harris Green
On The John Batchelor Show, Russian historian and Nation contributing editor Stephen Cohen discussed two recent and unsettling events in Ukraine: a spontaneous gas pipeline explosion in central Ukraine and a Ukrainian-led civilian assault on the Russian embassy. Because the explosion, argues Cohen, would benefit neither the Russian government nor the Kiev government, Cohen predicted that "extreme ultranationalists" are responsible. "Assuming it wasn't an accident," Cohen says, "I would have to say it was one of these groups." Later in the show, Cohen critiqued the mob attack on the Russian embassy, where cars where overturned, windows smashed and the Russian flag torn in two. Asserting that all embassies are entitled to full safety and sanctuary, Cohen voiced extreme disappointment that neither the Kiev government nor any other Western states had issued a strong disapproval of this attack.
— Alana de Hinojosa


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News Summary: Can Europe climb through slump?
(AP) - REMEMBER GREECE? The big worry a year ago was that Greece would collapse under its debts and roil Europe's financial markets. But the world's most dangerous bond market turned out to be one of the world's best bets last year. Many of Europe's markets surged.
NOW WHAT? The worst is over, investors say. That's where any agreement ends. Some on Wall Street think European stocks will outpace those in the U.S.
PLENTY OF PROBLEMS: The 17 countries that share the euro currency are in a second recession in three years; the unemployment rate reached a new high of 11.8 percent.
(Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)
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Town Square
School district seeks substitute teachers
Original post made on Dec 27, 2013
Read the full story here Web Link posted Thursday, December 26, 2013, 10:56 AM
on Dec 27, 2013 at 6:25 am
Iron Horse Trail:
Perhaps this happens in other areas as well.
Each time trail arrives to a public street there is a big 4 letter word:
But pedestrians and bike riders alike, just walk,run, stroll across the public street as if the 4 letter word: S T O P is intended for the driver of the vehicle.
Some are kind enough to provide the morning single finger salute!!!
Some are more brazen shouting at the driver for not stopping.
Some are on a casual stroll across the public street.
Do you have this experience?
If you do and seek to help reduce these incidents, write a local counsilperson, contact local newspaper on it, toot your horn each time it happens,
on Dec 27, 2013 at 7:53 am
The pay is quite low. More like volunteer work. The district is not comparable with other districts in the Bay area. If serious, they really need to consider raising the pay.
on Dec 27, 2013 at 8:44 am
While I am not on the sub list, I was called to sub in an advanced class that had not had a sub who knew the subject for two weeks. Then I realized how little pay I would get for the week's work, amounting to less than $9/hour for the 7 hours at the school, the 2 hours of preparation, and the 10 hours of paper grading that I did. So I turned down the long-term sub job the district offered me and resumed tutoring.


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Expired Property Listing
This property is disabled.
Breckhaven in Breckenridge
- bedrooms 3
- baths 3
- sleeps 9
- pool no
- hot tub yes
- pets allowed no
- type Townhome
- community Warrior's Mark
rates (USD)
/ night
vacation rental description
This is a new acquisition for River Ridge Rentals. Most dates starting 11/02 are currently available. Please check back soon for more photos.
Welcome to Breckhaven a ski access townhome with all the mountain charm and space you need for a fantastic vacation.
You walk into the lower level from the ground floor entrance or the 2 car garage. On this level you find two bedrooms and an extra den with a TV and pull out futon. Through the den is also where you access the private outdoor hot tub.
The upper level has the over-sized master suite with King Bed, private bath with tub and separate shower, and a tv. This is also where you will find the kitchen, and living room complete with fireplace.
Come spend a great vacation at "Breckhaven" with family and friends.
To get to the neighborhood ski access you must walk about 2.5 blocks. From there you will ski out on Peak 9, but will have to ski back in on Peak 10 (black trails). To ski back in you must be an intermediate/expert skier, you will lift up to Peak 10 and ski back to the Burro Trail and then down to where you started in the morning with another two blocks back to the property.
Bed Configuration:
Upper Level-
Master Bedroom #1 - King Bed (2)
Lower Level-
Bedroom #2 - Queen Bed (2)
Bedroom #3 - Bunk Bed w/Twin Top, Full Bottom (3)
Den - Pull out futon (2)
*NOTE: This home is not a true ski-in/out home, however, per real estate guidelines, is still classified ski-in/out. In order to get to the ski runs you will have to walk. In addition, ski-in/out is weather permitting.
This property can accommodate a maximum of 7 adults, or 9 total with children. The minimum age limit to rent 25. Guests under the age of 25 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.
This property can accommodate a maximum of 4 vehicles.
4x4 is MANDATORY during any date that snow may occur.
Ski access is through Peak 9 in skiing out or Peak 10 in skiing back in.
Minimum night stay requirements do apply, and for dates that allow less than a 5 night minimum stay there is a cleaning fee of $225 + tax that will be applied to your rental.
The refundable damage deposit is $500.00 and will be collected in advance.
vacation rental rates
$700 03/09/2013 - 03/16/2013 Spring Break
$500 03/17/2013 - 04/06/2013 Spring Break 2
$325 04/07/2013 - 04/13/2013 Late Ski
$250 04/14/2013 - 06/07/2013 Spring
$500 06/08/2013 - 09/05/2013 Summer
$225 09/06/2013 - 10/31/2013 Fall
$300 11/01/2013 - 11/25/2013 Early Ski
$475 11/26/2013 - 11/30/2013 Thanksgiving
$350 12/01/2013 - 12/20/2013 Regular Ski
$900 12/21/2013 - 12/27/2013 Christmas
$1200 12/28/2013 - 01/03/2014 New Years
$425 01/04/2014 - 01/31/2014 Regular Ski
$475 02/01/2014 - 02/12/2014 Prime Ski
$575 02/13/2014 - 02/17/2014 Presidents Weekend
$475 02/18/2014 - 03/07/2014 Prime Ski
$675 03/08/2014 - 03/21/2014 Spring Break
$475 03/22/2014 - 04/04/2014 Spring Break 2
$300 04/05/2014 - 04/20/2014 Late Ski
$250 04/21/2014 - 06/07/2014 Spring
Rent six nights and receive the seventh free! (Excluding holidays and Spring Break)
Minimum night stay requirements do apply and vary by season. Please call for more information.
Minimum age requirement of 25 to rent.
There will be a clean fee of $225 on all stays of less than 5 nights.
The damage deposit is $500 and is fully refundable.
The tax rate is 11.675%.
*Daily maid service is available for $50/day + tax. This includes making beds, change of dirty towels and touch up of kitchen.


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Traditional Welsh Recipes
Welsh Cake Recipe
A traditional Welsh Cake Recipe an ideal tea time treat, especially warm, straight from the griddle.
Full Breakfast in Britain and Ireland
Full English, Irish, Scottish or Welsh Breakfast
What are the National Dishes of Britain and Ireland?
National Dishes of Britain and Ireland
Anglesey Egg Recipe
Anglesey Eggs are a delicious Welsh recipe, perfect for vegetarians.
Welsh Recipes: Bara Brith Cake Recipe
Bara Brith is a traditional Welsh cake, quick and easy to make and loved throughout Wales and the UK
Sweet Lamb Christmas Mince Pie Recipe
Though we are more accustomed to sweet mince pies at Christmas but in the 13th century these sweet mince pies were traditionally made with meat such as lamb.


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Gator Bytes
Tag: D1 Sports Training
Coming soon to a silver screen near you — Tim Tebow
- 12:50 pm Thursday, January 28th, 2010 by Post Staff
MOBILE, Ala, — Tim Tebow has worn many hats in his brief athletic career: Championship-winning quarterback. Missionary. Pro-life activist.
Now you can add another one: Film star.
Tebow, preparing for the Senior Bowl this week, is currently in the middle of having his every movement chronicled by filmmaker Chase Heavener, a close family friend and son of Bill Heavener, a major Florida football booster.
Heavener's Winter Park-based production company, Fiction, has had two cameras following Tebow literally since the confetti fell on the Louisiana Superdome turf on Jan. 1. Tebow's amateur status prevented them from turning on the cameras any sooner.
The film, which does not yet have a name, will chronicle Tebow's workouts at D1 Sports Performance in Nashville, his performances at the Senior Bowl, NFL Combine, NFL Draft, his offseason workouts and finish at his first NFL game.
"Essentially we started when the clock strikes zero. That's exactly when we turned the cameras on," said Heavener, 30, who got field access at the Sugar Bowl and this week at the Senior Bowl. "We're getting stuff that probably no one would get except for me."


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Home > Post > Post 2 > Post 2 News Release > 2013 News Releases > News Release
News Release
TFC Stu Recke
Public Affairs Officer
Kentucky State Police
Post 2, Nortonville
(270) 676-3313
Click here to e-mail TFC Stu Recke
Vehicle Fire Closes Parkway
Date of News Release: 01/14/2013
Madisonville, KY. (Hopkins County) -- The Kentucky State Police is currently investigating a vehicle fire on the Edward T. Breathitt Pennyrile Parkway that has closed all northbound and southbound lanes.
A semi tanker truck hauling hydrochloric acid was traveling southbound on the parkway when the cab caught fire. All northbound and southbound lanes between Hanson (exit 49) and Slaughters (exit 54) are closed and will be for several hours.
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has established a detour via US 41 between the Slaughters-Calhoun exit at KY 138 and the Hanson exit.
No injuries were reported.


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Expired Property Listing
This property is disabled.
Bay Pool Home - with Pool and View of Kailua Bay in Kailua-Kona
- bedrooms 1
- baths 1
- sleeps 4
- pool yes
- hot tub no
- pets allowed no
- type House
- community
rates (USD)
/ night
vacation rental description
BE SAFE - Feel Safe by calling us. To ensure a safe transaction for BOTH parties and prevent possible internet fraud , We now ask for an initial contact by telephone. We would love to talk about Kona with you. Follow up e-mails will be fine after this initial call . See RATE DESCRIPTION below for details .
Beautiful home at a cool 800 foot elevation, yet only 5 minutes to the center of Kona Town, world class beaches, shopping and restaurants. This charming home with vintage Hawaiian "tiki" theme decorations, features a California King size bed in the bedroom plus twin bed and queen sofa bed in living area. Opens up onto large swimming pool and sun deck area with chaise lounges and tables and chairs. Cook a meal in the well stocked kitchenette for al fresco dining by the pool!
house rental amenities
We provide extras to make you feel at home. Upon arrival, you will be able to find items such as beach chairs, Boogie Boards, beach towels, coolers, kitchen needs like aluminum foil, storage bags, coffee filters, dish soap and other amenities. Also available are floor futons and sleeping bags for kids, laundry soap, your own Gas Grill, hair dryers, cable TV, and WiFi.
vacation rental rates
Rates: $69 to $99 ....State of Hawaii Business License Tax # W 00425520-01
We help with a SAFE financial transaction for BOTH sides : No damage deposits to worry with. Your initial e-mails are welcome, but we will require a telephone chat before we finalize any contract.
We live, work, mail and bank within 4 miles from this home. TERMS: only $25 on bookings more than 100 days out, with 25% 90 and 60 days out. The balance of 50% just 20 days before arrival. We can arrange an arrival payment.
ASK about our professional web site with 40 more pictures and data on this home. PLUS 100's of pictures and maps of Kona town beaches, area restaurants with menu prices. 300+ Pictures and maps of area shopping, farmers markets, gardens, coffee tours, snorkel, scuba and attractions. We love to TALK about KONA - please call us anytime.


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5 Stocks Pushing The Electronics Industry Lower
Editor's Note: TheStreet ratings do not represent the views of TheStreet's staff or its contributors. Ratings are established by computer based on metrics for performance (which includes growth, stock performance, efficiency and valuation) and risk (volatility and solvency). Companies with poor cash flow or high debt levels tend to earn lower ratings in our modelTwo out of the three major indices are trading lower today with the Dow Jones Industrial Average (^DJI) trading up 14 points (0.1%) at 12,892 as of Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2012, 12:00 PM ET. The NYSE advances/declines ratio sits at 1,435 issues advancing vs. 1,435 declining with 148 unchanged.The Electronics industry currently sits up 0.4% versus the S&P 500, which is down 0.0%. On the negative front, top decliners within the industry include Silicon Laboratories (SLAB), down 3.4%, Advantest (ATE), down 2.9%, Bruker Corporation (BRKR), down 1.6%, United Microelectronics (UMC), down 1.5% and STMicroelectronics (STM), down 0.8%. Top gainers within the industry include Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), up 3.5%, Freescale Semiconductor (FSL), up 3.7%, Nationstar Mortgage Holdings (NSM), up 2.6%, AU Optronics Corporation (AUO), up 2.5% and Garmin (GRMN), up 1.9%.TheStreet Ratings group would like to highlight 5 stocks pushing the industry lower today:5. Acuity Brands (AYI) is one of the companies pushing the Electronics industry lower today. As of noon trading, Acuity Brands is down $1.77 (-2.7%) to $62.82 on light volume Thus far, 107,167 shares of Acuity Brands exchanged hands as compared to its average daily volume of 344,300 shares. The stock has ranged in price between $62.14-$64.09 after having opened the day at $64.09 as compared to the previous trading day's close of $64.59. Acuity Brands, Inc., through its subsidiaries, engages in the design, production, and distribution of lighting solutions and services in North America and internationally. Acuity Brands has a market cap of $2.8 billion and is part of the technology sector. The company has a P/E ratio of 23.9, above the S&P 500 P/E ratio of 17.7. Shares are up 22.7% year to date as of the close of trading on Tuesday. Currently there are 5 analysts that rate Acuity Brands a buy, 2 analysts rate it a sell, and 7 rate it a hold.TheStreet Ratings rates Acuity Brands as a buy. The company's strengths can be seen in multiple areas, such as its revenue growth, largely solid financial position with reasonable debt levels by most measures, expanding profit margins, solid stock price performance and notable return on equity. We feel these strengths outweigh the fact that the company shows weak operating cash flow. Get the full Acuity Brands Ratings Report now.Holiday Special: Subscribe to Action Alerts PLUS to see how Jim Cramer trades his $2.5 Million+ portfolio for 51% off the list price. Your first 14-days are FREE: Sign up today to get e-mail alerts before every trade
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The Klezmorim Radio
Klezmorim was one of the first of the revivalist bands to play klezmer, the traditional dance music of the Eastern European Jews. During the twelve years that the group was together, Klezmorim brought a good-humored, theatrical approach to their fusion of traditional Eastern European Jewish music, jazz, improvisation, street music and worldbeat.
The concept that developed into Klezmorim was conceived as a duo, "Lev & Dave," by saxophone player Lev Liberman and violinist David Skuse in 1974. At the time, the only other band playing klezmer was a group featuring Andy Statman and Zev Feldman in New York. Liberman had become interested in the music as a link between Russian and Romanian folk music, Depression-era cartoon soundtracks and the compositions of Gershwin, Weill and Prokofiev. With the addition of David Julian Gray (clarinet, mandolin, lauto and violin), Greg Carageorge (double bass) and Laurie Chastain (violin), the duo was expanded into a full-sized band, The Sarajevo Folk Ensemble. After sharpening their sound at parties and weddings in San Francisco, the group changed their name to Klezmorim, in January 1976, and performed their first concert at the Public Library in Berkeley, California on April 13, 1976.
Following the release of their debut album, East Side Wedding, in 1977, Klezmorim underwent several personnel changes. With the departure of Skuse and two string players, David Julian Gray focused on the clarinet and former street performers Rick Elmore (bass trombone, tuba, bass drum, cymbals) and Brian Wishnefsky (trumpet) were added.
Klezmorim continued to develop the theatrical elements of their performances. In 1983 and 1984, the band collaborated with new vaudevillians the Flying Karamazov Brothers for an extended run as a juggling/brass supergroup.
From 1986 until 1988, Klezmorim toned down the theatrical aspects of their shows and concentrated more seriously on the music. Their concerts, which often lasted several hours, became legendary. ~ Craig Harris
© 2014 Rovi Corporation.


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User Reviews & Ratings - A/G Pro Oral
Read user comments about the side effects, benefits, and effectiveness of A/G Pro Oral.
Overall User Ratings7 Total User Reviews
User Reviews
Learn about
User Reviews
Reviewer: Divapj, 55-64 Female on Treatment for 2 to less than 5 years (Patient)
Ease of Use
I have used this for a couple of years off and on. It works. I had my hair thin and break from over processing color and relaxer & each time I've used it my hair has grown back thicker and healthier. I love these vitamins. Ive told everybody that I know how wonderful it has done for me. the down side is how much you have to take kinda bumb's me out but, I just hate taking pills. Does i ... Show Full Comment
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Reviewer: Happy, Happy, Happy, 65-74 Female on Treatment for 1 to 6 months (Patient)
Ease of Use
My dermatologist told me to take this after I experienced extreme hair loss which resulted in me wearing a wig for 7 months. My once straight hair is much thicker and for some reason is very curly. The doctor thought I had on a new wig. I will never stop taking it.
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Reviewer: Jme, 45-54 Female on Treatment for less than 1 month (Patient)
Ease of Use
I am taking this product for thinning hair. To my surprise I can tell a difference with a four week use! Hair appears to be thicker, hopefully it is thicker. My hair has grown enough I can tell. Looks wonderful and will continue taking from now own.
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Reviewer: denise, 55-64 Female on Treatment for 1 to 6 months (Patient)
Ease of Use
Took AG/Pro for my nails. Have not been able to grow my own nails without constant breakage. A/G did work.. within a month, my nails were grown out enough to look nice with polish. But the pills were not pleasant for me to take. For one, it bothered my stomach a bit, and taking 6 pills a day is more than too much for me. I tried cutting the dose to 4, but then I noticed that both thumb nails ... Show Full Comment
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Reviewer: 55-64 Female on Treatment for 2 to less than 5 years (Patient)
Ease of Use
IT was recommended by my hair stylist. I shaved my head and started over and have been using this product for over a year and it has helped my hair growth tremendously. I will continue to use until I die!
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text: South Aiken graduate sings opera in China for six months By Rob Novit Thursday, December 27th, 2012 Tweet Back To Story SUBMITTED PHOTO Sarah Beaty, a former Aiken resident and Manhattan School of Music graduate, performs an aria earlier this year over St. Marks Square in the city of Macau, an administrative region of China. Submitted photo During at performance at the Sands Venetian Macao hotel-casino in an administrative region of China, former Aiken resident Sarah Beaty at top with her arms extended performs with others in her company. She spent six months there this year, singing light opera and classical songs. SUBMITTED PHOTO During a sixth-month contract to perform opera and classical music in a region of China, Sarah Beaty, right, and a friend enjoy the Great Wall of China.


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Mortgage Rate Trends: Weekly Market Trends & Forecast
51 Route 23 South, Riverdale NJ 07457 | 973-617-8700 | Toll-Free: 1-800-UPDATES | www.HSH.com
Keith Gumbinger HSH.com
Find archives here.
Mortgage Rates Stumble Back To 2014 Lows
August 22, 2014 -- Not that it took much for them to get there, but 30-year fixed mortgage rates managed to again hit 2014 lows; it is the third such touch of the bottom for rates since May. Given the already low and stable pattern for mortgage rates over the past fourteen weeks, this isn't exactly earth-shattering news, but is is of course welcomed by potential homebuyers and refinancers.
Coupled with an improving job market and a faster pace of economic recovery, the low and stable pattern for mortgage rates appears to be having at least some beneficial effect on home sales. If credit conditions are also actually beginning to ease at the margins, we may just see the housing market gain some additional traction -- if not this fall, then next spring, before the Fed is expected to begin the process of lifting short-term interest rates.
HSH.com's broad-market mortgage tracker -- our weekly Fixed-Rate Mortgage Indicator (FRMI) -- found that the overall average rate for 30-year fixed-rate mortgages decreased by two basis points (0.02%) sliding back to 4.18 percent. The FRMI's 15-year companion failed to move at all, holding steady at an average rate of 3.43 percent. FHA-backed 30-year FRMs bucked the slight downward trend, actually increasing by one basis point on average to tick up to 3.91 percent, as these fully-insured offerings remain the best-priced long-term mortgage product in the market. Finally, the overall 5/1 Hybrid ARM retreated by the most this week, featuring a five-basis point decline to dip to 3.07 percent, its lowest average value since the end of July.
See this week's Statistical Release and Mortgage Trends Graphs.
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While sales are new homes are recorded the moment a contract is signed, sales of existing homes aren't tallied until the deed changes hands and the mortgage is closed. As such, sales reported by the National Association or Realtors are reflective of conditions in the market anywhere from 30 to 60 days ago (longer, in some cases). In 2014, sales of existing homes began to revive somewhat in April, as mortgage rates had begun a decline in mid-January which continued though March, April and May. At that time, the decline in rates flattened out leave us approximately where we are at the moment, give or take a few basis points.
The latest NAR report covering July (and reflective of demand in June and May) found home sales running at a 5.15 million annualized rate, a second consecutive 2.4 percent increase and a continuation of a pretty steady set of sales gains since a winter swoon. Supplies of unsold homes held again at 5.5 months of inventory, still a little below what is considered an optimal level. Year-over-year comparisons of selling prices are still rising, but in the mid-single digits, helping to better preserve affordability than the double-digit increases so common in 2013.
While we'll get a look at sales of new homes in July next week, there are some signals that things may have perked up there as well. The National Association of Homebuilders index of member sentiment moved up by two notches in August, landing at a pretty solid 55 for the month. This was the highest value for the series since January, with optimism boosted by improvements in single-family sales, expectations for sales over the next six months and a pick up in traffic at model homes and showrooms. Much of the improvement in the index was driven by a big gain in the midwest, which offset declines in the south and west and a more modest gain in the northeast.
If HSH's weekly MarketTrends newsletter is the only way you know HSH, you need to come back and check out HSH.com from time to time. You'll find new and changing content on a regular basis, unique calculators, useful insight, articles and mortgage resources unlike anywhere else on the web.
It could be that builders are simply happy to be putting up homes at a more rapid pace, too. In July, starts of new homes rose a stout 15.7 percent, climbing to a 1.093 million annualized rate of construction initiation. This was a better than expected pace and improved upon an upwardly-revised June report. Start of single-family homes rose by 50,000 during the month (an 8.3 percent bump) but multi-family starts rose by almost double that pace, adding 98,000 units in a 28.9 percent rise for the month. Also, permits for future construction rose by a solid 8.1 percent to a 1.052 million (annualized) rate, so the future appears pretty bright, too.
Minutes of the last Federal Reserve Meeting were released this week. The July 29-30 affair culminated with no change to monetary policy excepting another trim to QE, reducing the Fed's accumulation of MBS and Treasury bonds to a total pace of $25 billion per month. The Fed has already clearly stated its intention to end QE with the October meeting, so we can expect another $10 billion trim in mid-September and then termination of the program come Halloween. Thereafter, the Fed will continue to recycle some money from maturing securities, keeping their balance sheet level for at least a while.
After that, it's not yet clear what the Fed will do; how to conduct monetary policy with a bloated balance sheet has been the topic of discussion at the last few meetings, and this one was no exception. It looks increasingly likely that the Fed will again use the Federal Funds rate as a primary tool, manipulating the stated Funds rate as a policy marker but also in conjunction with the payment of Interest on Excess Reserves (IOER, in Fed-speak) to help enforce the desired level of Fed Funds. Other tools will also be used to greater or lesser degree to move interest rates, but the Fed has not yet decided whether it will keep all its holdings until maturity or sell some as conditions warrant. Whether to to divest assets or not, or when or how quickly, could have some considerable implications for long-term interest and mortgage rates, but for the moment, their intentions appear to be leaning toward holding them to term.
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Provided inflation continues to be at or below the Fed's desired levels, the Fed retains leeway in how long to keep rates low even after QE and recycling of funds has ended. Expectations are for the first rate hike in mid-2015, but this could come a little earlier if the economy and job market continues to improve (or inflation kicks higher), or a little later if increases are more grudging. The headline figure for the Consumer Price Index told of a 0.1 percent rise in prices during July, a downshift from a 0.3 percent rise in June. So-called "core" CPI (a figure exclusive of volatile food and energy prices) also rose by 0.1 percent. Over the last year, headline CPI is now running at a flat 2 percent; core is close behind at 1.9 percent. The Fed's preferred measure of price pressures is different than these more common indicators, but it too has moved closed to the Fed's speed limit of 2 percent in recent months.
Economists from the Fed and around the world met this week in Jackson Hole, Wyoming for an annual conference. Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen gave a speech at the affair, and focused on both shortcomings and improvements in the U.S. labor markets. In her speech, Ms. Yellen noted that "The labor market has yet to fully recover", but the minutes from the last Fed meeting indicate that the Fed has been somewhat surprised that it has improved as quickly as it appears to have, especially this year. Layoffs are down, hiring is up, and initial claims for unemployment benefits have settled at levels last seen before the Great Recession began. In the week ending August 16, some 298,000 new applications for assistance were filed, the third time in the last five weeks we have seen a sub-300,000 figure. Present low levels of layoffs suggest that we should expect to see another 200,000 new hires happen this month (perhaps more), a figure to be revealed when the August employment report comes out on September 5.
One indication of manufacturing health bounced higher in August. The latest index from the Philadelphia Federal Reserve covering factory activity in its district rose from a value of 23.5 in July to 28.0 in August, even as new orders and employment gains cooled a little bit. After posting a negative number as recently as February, the Philly index has moved steadily higher for the past six months as economic growth rebounded in the second quarter and apparently the third, as well.
See fresh mortgage rates every day at HSH.com Follow us on Twitter for even more need-to-know news!
Does mortgage history repeat? Usually. Find out what happened last week/month/year with MarketTrends archives!
HSH's Statistical Release features charts and graphs for eleven mortgage products, including Hybrid ARMs.
Our state-by-state statistics are now here.
While no one knows what the future will bring, the index of Leading Economic Indicators from the Conference Board suggests that more improvement is to be expected. The LEI rose by a solid 0.9 percent in July, continuing a six-month string of positive readings and good enough for the second highest of the last year. While the LEI purports to foretell growth in the months ahead, it may better reflect conditions in the month when the components of the indicator are gathered. Regardless, the uptick is more good news for now, and possibly the future, too.
With a little more than a week until Labor Day, the unofficial close of summer, there seems to be little on the horizon at the moment to disturb the present flat pattern for mortgage rates. One week, we'll see a small flare higher for rates, only to see that dissolved over the next week or two. With last minute-vacations for some, and back-to-school for others, this time of year is usually pretty quiet, at least until the pace of life begins to quicken again in the week and weeks after Labor Day. This being the case, mortgage rates aren't likely to do much for the next week, even as a fresh pile of data will most likely continue to confirm a solidifying economy.
Next week, we'll look for more clues for the direction of mortgage and other interest rates in the Chicago Fed's National Activity Index, Confidence and Sentiment indicators, an update on GDP for the second quarter and more. A slight bump higher two weeks ago has now been erased, and then some, but with solid data, it's probably time for another slight upward move. We'll call it a 3-4 basis point increase for the week at most.
For a longer-range outlook for rates and the economy, one which will take you up until mid October, take a look at our new Two-Month Forecast.
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