text:
It's that time of the month…
by Corn Dog on May 30, 2014
in Misc Updates
Hey I would just like to point out that I am "Biker Chick of the Month" for June over at Biker Chick Tips! Lots of good reading there, cool website run by my friend Tina "Sash" Walker of RoadPickle.com fame!
Chrome Divas ride to Prairie City
by Corn Dog on May 20, 2014
in Iowa Rides
I am a little behind on my ride reports these days – what can I say… shiny objects distracted me! But I've had a few lovely rides and must share a bit about them!
A few years ago, Steve and I rode over to the Neil Smith National Wildlife Refuge with Garry, Shirley and Janet/Seven Over, but we didn't have much time to wander around. I've always wanted to go back and study the learning center a little more carefully, and the Chrome Divas were amenable when I mentioned it as a potential ride destination in late April.
Our little chapter is now up to 12 members, though not everyone was able to attend the ride. Our day started with lunch at the Sugar Shack, a 50′s-themed diner in the nearby community of Altoona. We tend to get a little silly whenever we gather, and it's always a round-robin of road stories and general fun conversation (hot dogs – why does everyone make fun of me for frequently ordering hot dogs? I mean, a good weiner is really hard to find, right?! Oh… wait.)
After lunch we headed off to the east along 8th St. SE in Altoona, which becomes County Road F48 heading toward Colfax, Lambs Grove and Newton. It eventually becomes old Highway 6 (the Grand Army of the Republic Highway), a classic east/west highway with lots of history, running through small towns with cool roadside attractions. I love F48 – there's a hillcrest before coming down into Colfax where the view opens up and you can see a patchwork of farmland for several miles laid out – the first time I saw this view, several years ago, it hit me: Iowa is a beautiful state! I've been an advocate for it ever since.
Anyway, into Colfax and south on Highway 117 to Prairie City – good thing it was a short hop (less than 10 miles) from here to our destination, because the wind was absolutely brutal along this stretch!
What I remembered most about our previous visit to the Wildlife Refuge (also a prairie restoration area) was the long and winding entrance road with prairie grasses waving gently on either side – it creates a beautiful and calming "whhhissshh – whhhissshh" sound as you ride through it.
What was evident the moment we arrived this time, however, was that this trip would not offer up the same experience. The area had recenly been subject to an apparent controlled/prescribed burn, so the entire landscape along the entrance road was charred and blackened.
At first I was a bit disappointed and taken aback – but then I realized, in its own way this was beautiful too. And I knew, even before we learned more about the burn technique, that the burn had a purpose: to wipe out the invasive weed species and allow the native prairie plants to come back strengthened. Eventually we walked along a loop of the trail and could get a good look at the scope of the burn – several thousand acres, it turns out – and the Conservationist on duty in the learning center (along with a friendly volunteer named Larry) explained the process to us.
We also spent some time browsing in the gift shop. (A cute animal-identification book for kids called "Whose Butt?" set the tone for our shopping experience, much to Volunteer Larry's chagrin. He would be forced to endure our silliness for the next two hours.) We watched a short educational video about the history of the Iowa prairie and the development of the wildlife refuge, and spent some quality time looking at the various exhibits about the flora and fauna of the (restored) prairie.
We also goaded poor Larry into posing with us for a group picture in front of the stuffed bison on display. I think (or at least I hope) he was happy to do so, especially considering that at least one of us made an actual purchase: Penney bought the cutest hat in the shop!
Thoroughly enjoyed this visit despite the lack of tall waving prairie grass, and we headed home late in the afternoon to the west along Highway 163. Going this direction, we had the tailwind so it was actually a very enjoyable ride back into Des Moines. We split off in various directions for home once we reached the eastern edge of town with our first chapter ride of the year now behind us.
With the chilly wet Spring we've had, it sure seemed a long time coming!
Ride Empowered: Q & A with Doris Schumacher
I do have a ride to share with you that took place recently, but first I wanted to tell you about this awesome little business in Sioux Falls, SD – on the way to Sturgis, for those of you traveling westerly! The grand opening of Doris Schumacher's store, Ride Empowered, takes place Saturday May 3, 2014 – International Female Ride Day! Store Hours in Sioux Falls are 10 am – 6 pm. Stop by if you are in the area, and support Doris and her new venture!
Doris Schumacher was having a hell of a time finding a suitable leather riding jacket. Now I must say right off the bat, I can relate. But, while I was content to bitch about the difficult task of locating a well-made, well-fitting jacket in the appropriate size, Doris was not. Instead, she began the process or researching and eventually turned her challenge into a retail store: Ride Empowered, in Sioux Falls, SD and online at www.rideempowered.com.
I recently asked Doris to take a pop-quiz about her life-changing decisions to ride and to become a business owner, and despite all the millions of other tasks on her to-do list she happily complied. So here, to coincide with the Grand Opening of the Ride Empowered Store, is a revealing Q-and-A with owner and EMPOWERED RIDER Doris Schumacher.
Tell me about your own personal background in motorcycling – how long have you been riding, and what has riding done for you personally as a rider and as a female rider?
My uncle was a biker, so I'd ridden on the back with him a few times as a kid. Aside from the exposure I really didn't start riding until my husband got a bike the Spring of 2009. I rode on the back with him for one year. At first I was scared, but it didn't take long for me to decide that if I'm going to be on a bike I'd rather be driving it. For me it was almost like a women's lib issue. In my mind being his passenger somehow implied that I was incapable of doing it myself. I hate feeling incapable.
I took a beginners riding course the summer of 2010 & had my own brand new shiny red 2009 Kawasaki 500EN before I even completed the class. After I passed I would take my bike up to the local church parking lot to practice. I was terrified almost every time I rode that bike for the first couple years, (which is actually just 2 three month riding seasons in SD), but I just kept pushing myself past it until I got used to it, and it became a personal liberation. Riding my own bike helped me gain a lot of self-confidence, and the empowerment I gained through that started crossing into my personal and professional life. I started standing up for myself more, taking on new challenges, and reprioritizing the things that mattered to me in life. When I was on my bike I (wasn't thinking about) my messy house, the bills I had to pay, remembering the schedules of myself as well as my husband and three children. I started to realize… I needed to get out of (the rat race). That's when I started looking into starting my own business.
What was the inspiration for you in terms of deciding to start a retail business?
Starting my own business was already in my mind, but I really didn't know what type of business I should shoot for, so I just started doing research on the various franchises that were out there thinking that would be the route I'd take. Then, I went out shopping for a leather jacket – this was last Spring (2013). I was having a really hard time finding a suitable riding jacket. I didn't want to shop online and end up with something that didn't fit right, and since I ride a Kawasaki I had no interest in shopping at our local Harley dealership. That's when it hit me that there might be a need for a women's motorcycle apparel shop, so then I started focusing my research on that. After a few months of digging I felt that I had enough to support at least a small business, and that was all I really felt I needed to accomplish.
What is it you hope to do for women riders through your business?
I'm hoping to provide them with a place they know is there for them. Although women are a fast growing demographic in the motorcycle industry, it's still very much male dominated. I see this changing as several large companies are recognizing their needs and reaching out to meet them by creating new lines of riding gear and apparel that are just for women. Now we just need to start bringing more attention to the various size and style needs as so much is limited in size ranges. If Ride Empowered grows, or at least grabs some attention, then we have a real shot at helping manufacturers see that need too. Aside from that, I'm also hoping to provide women with a support network, rider education classes, and some fun events to participate in!
Starting a retail business is a risky and life-changing proposition. How has it changed your life so far, and how do you think it will change the degree to which you personally enjoy riding?
It's very risky, and it's nowhere near in the safe zone yet. I couldn't have even taken the leap without the support of my family, friends, and community. I've had to share a lot of work with my family. I even put my kids to work if they're in the shop. Without their support I wouldn't have enough hands to get all the work done. My friends do everything they can to help promote the business so I have a fighting chance at keeping it going. And my community is one that really supports local businesses. Not all community developers would be willing to take a risk on a small business of this somewhat unusual type. I didn't have much for comparable businesses to discuss in my business plan to show my lenders its potential success. They just believed in me and its potential knowing that it was a risk. And really, I still haven't "done it." Yes, I've started a business, but it's not yet a success. I set my goals a little at a time now. If I can make next month's rent that's a goal achieved. If I can't get through my first year that'll be a HUGE goal achieved. People know starting a business is risky, but you don't know just how risky until you do it.
What degree of support have you received in launching your venture from your family and friends?
Oh my gosh, I don't even know where to begin with that. This experience has taught me so much about my family and friends… I get pretty emotional. They didn't just believe in my business idea, they believed in ME and MY ability to make it work. That's been the most amazing part of all of this. I saw more of myself in seeing what they saw in me – if that makes sense. Most supportive? Certainly my husband and kids, my mom, my brother, and all my in-laws. My husband does all my advertisements and website development – it's been a LOT of added work for him. I don't want to name any friends because I don't want any of them to feel more or less important than the next. My friends are local riders I've met that have supported and encouraged me from day one, everyone who likes & shares my Facebook page to help spread the word, everyone who comes in and buys something so I can keep paying the bills, everyone who signed up for my newsletter… It's a long list and without any of them Ride Empowered is no more. They all keep it going with me and I just can't do it without any of them.
What has been the biggest challenge for you in terms of getting the business up and running?
The WORK, OMG. This has been the most time intensive, labor intensive, learning intensive thing I've ever done in my life. It's hard to stay on top of everything, it's hard not to get scared of failing, it's hard to know that I'm adding a lot of work to my husband and family who already juggle a lot… Everything is hard, but it's the kind of hard work that keeps me going every day. I've always thrived on challenges. It's part of the reason I've never stayed at one job for more than two years. Once I learn something and it becomes routine I get bored. There will never be routine with this. I will always multi-task a half dozen different positions to keep the business going. I will always have a list of things to do, new ideas to bring to life, and now there's no boss telling me when, where, or if I can do any of it! Also, I know that I have to hang in there when it's hard and when it's scary, not just for me or my family, but now for everyone else who's counting on me. Ride Empowered means a lot to a lot of people. It's touched them in ways I didn't expect because its special to them too. It's real proof that women are establishing their place, and more importantly their respect by the men in this industry. In a really small way I kind of feel like I'm making a little history here.
What is your biggest challenge in terms of merchandising – has the available merchandise met your expectations for what you want your shop to be about?
Oh yeah, that's been a challenge for sure. When I placed my initial orders I didn't stress too much and just ordered a full size run in each item I wanted to test out, but I wasn't expecting my 2X tops to be as small as they were. Each time a full figured woman came into the shop and had to leave because she couldn't find something in her size I was crushed. I'm now on a mission to find gear and apparel for plus size women but man, it's like looking for a needle in a haystack sometimes. Luckily, I have found a few brands I can count on and will order more from them as I'm able, but I'm also anticipating the start of a new line (yes, my own) that will hopefully help meet the needs. Unfortunately I can't start with much. It'll be just t-shirts in the beginning. It would be nice if at some point it can be riding gear too.
How easy do you think it will be, going forward, to provide merchandise that meets your mission?
There is no "easy". It's going to be a challenge plain and simple until the motorcycling industry comes through with more thorough size ranges. The only thing that will make that happen is providing them with evidence that there's enough of a need for it to warrant their investment in making it. We'll all have to do that together.
Any specific plans for the online store, or is it primarily an extension of the brick-and-mortar shop?
The online store launched in April at www.RideEmpowered.com. It isn't really an extension of the store because it offers many different products than what I keep in the store. With some products there's more available online than in the store, but then some of the specialty items I carry in the shop are not available online. There is now a link at the top of our business page that will take you to our Shopify store, but the work involved in getting the store setup is much more labor intensive than we anticipated. It's a long process of matching each inventory item to a photo and description before putting it online. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to afford a commercial website developer so my husband has been building it himself. He has about fifteen years of experience, so he's more than qualified, but he isn't a co-owner or employee of Ride Empowered. He has a full time job as well as a part time job, and now added work at home to pick up my slack. It's coming together, but it is definitely moving slower than we'd like it to.
What has been your favorite experience so far in launching the business?
Seeing the smiles and hearing the kind words of everyone that supports me and Ride Empowered. I feel like I'm serving a real and needed purpose through this business.
Your least favorite experience?
Doing all the painting myself, oh, and the GLITTER FLOOR! It's awesome, yes, but it was far more work than I thought it would be and it really set me back with many more important things. I'm still catching up on tasks and responsibilities that I should have had completed before I even opened my doors. If I ever do this again I'm hiring people!
What are the "particulars" of your brick-and-mortar shop: days/hours of operation, address of retail store, web address…
I just changed my hours for the summer months, so you can now get me at
Doris Schumacher, Owner
Ride Empowered
945 S Marion Rd Ste 109
Sioux Falls, SD 57106
Store: (605) 275-5580
Toll Free: (855) 371-4971
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Tue – Wed: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Thu – Fri: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
Sat: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Sun: 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
You can also connect with Doris via:
Facebook – www.facebook.com/rideempowered
Twitter – www.twitter.com/rideempowered
All photos in this post are courtesy Doris Schumacher and Ride Empowered!
2014 Bike Blessing and a special meet-up
by Corn Dog on April 22, 2014
in Iowa Rides
We had a beautiful and delightful day on April 19 for the ABATE of Iowa Blessing of the Bikes – morning temps were in the upper 50′s and we hit mid-70′s by the afternoon.
My Chrome Divas group had made plans to meet at Sambetti's at 9:30 and roll into the blessing together, so Steve and I headed over and we met up with several of the gals to ride in to Big Barn Harley Davidson here in Des Moines. We arrived at the Barn about 10 am for the 11 am blessing, and there were already quite a few bikes on hand.
We did a little bike browsing and – huge treat! – I finally got to meet a friend I've been emailing with for almost a year! Glenda had contact me last year and asked me to add a poker run to my event calendar that her family organizes each year. At the time, I also wrote up a little post about the run to help promote it, because the story behind it really resonated with me.
Through email letters, my new pen pal and I quickly discovered that we share the exact same birthday – month, day and year! – and, have a special love for a particular pattern of vintage dinnerware. Because of all this – plus more things in common AND our shared love of riding, we became fast friends online and now finally have been able to meet in person and ride together! It was very gratifying to get to meet Glenda and her husband Pat!
The bike blessing event was lovely as always – there was live music, a large-group blessing, and then the opportunity to wait by your bike and have a member of the Christian Motorcycle Association say a special individual blessing. We then enjoyed the chili feed put on by ABATE District 4, and finally decided to take off on a short ride.
At this point we were also joined by another new friend, Kelly, whom we had met on a previous visit to the Barn.
Our ride route was simple and the group consisted of myself, Steve, Garry, Shirley, Pat, Glenda and Kelly. We rode north away from the Barn on Highway 415 and turned with 415 to the west, along the north side of Saylorville Lake into Polk City.
We traveled north out of Polk City up to Highway 210, then jogged east into Slater, where we landed at the Night Hawk Bar & Grille – a little place adjacent to a bicycle trail that we had discovered last year while Road Pickling with Sash & Highway.
Spent about an hour just visiting and enjoying our beverages, then everyone headed home or on to their next Saturday activity.
I thoroughly enjoyed this day… although I didn't take many photos, you can see the ones I did take in my Bike Blessing 2014 album on Facebook.
Ten favorite Iowa Rides
by Corn Dog on April 17, 2014
in Tenth Anniversary
In ten years of blogging, I've posted a lot of ride reports about trips around Iowa; it's hopefully no secret that I love riding the backroads of my home state! In celebration of my blog's Tenth Anniversary, I've rounded up ten of my favorite Iowa rides, chosen either for the scenic roads, the interesting destination, an overall memorable day, or maybe all three qualities rolled into one. Here are ten favorites, in no particular order:
Audubon/Albert the Bull – In 2006 we were preparing for our first ride to the Sturgis Rally, so we made an all-day run to Audubon, Iowa to visit a giant concrete bull. It was hard to ignore his oversized testicles, and to this day I still occasionally have visitors to my blog who've arrived here after searching for "big nuts."
Solo Ride to Palmyra – This was a short but satisfying solo ride along a favorite road, and I made a snap decision to stop and admire a beautiful old and weathered Gothic-style church.
Divas Ride to Jefferson - The Mahanay Bell Tower in Jefferson, Iowa is one of my absolute favorite central Iowa destinations, and this ride with my gal pals in the Chrome Divas was an outstanding day of beautiful riding and wonderful fellowship!
The Butt Puckering Ride from Peru - This day was all about the friends we were with, roads that were both scenic and horrific, and things not going according to plan. Also, a word that makes me laugh every time I say it.
Pie in Millerton – This time, it was mostly about the food. When a local TV reporter tells me this is the best pie in Iowa, by golly, I listen!
Lincoln Highway Bridge – An historic road, an amazing local eatery, and the bridge I almost missed!
Divas Ride to American Gothic House - A classic Iowa destination, a bit of classic Iowa road food, and the spectacle of an all-women's ride. A favorite day for sure!
Road Pickling – In which I have the opportunity to lead two amazing California-based riders along the Iowa leg of their journey-of-a-lifetime around the United States! Sharing Iowa corn, curves, and camaraderie with Sash & Highway.
The Flags of Brooklyn – When you're a small town seemingly in the middle of nowhere and completely off the beaten path of the Interstate, you have to do something to make a name for yourself. The tiny town of Brooklyn, Iowa has done just that with a charming display of flags from all 50 states, and just a little bit more.
Solo Ride to Drakesville - A day to myself, nowhere to be, and a ride that wasn't all sunshine and roses – well okay, it WAS all sunshine… but, a major achievement in the Riding Solo department, and overall a really memorable ride I'm glad I took.
Central Iowa bike blessings
Yep, I admit it – this post is a re-run! I was wanting to "round up" the upcoming Bike Blessings that I had added to my calendar post. I went looking for the photo that I had used in my original 'Blessing' post, and thought, you know what, screw it – the words are still good too! Here's the original post, and a current/updated list of blessing events:
I really dig all the "bike blessing" events I'm hearing about. I'm not what you'd call a regular church-goer, but I am a Christian person and I find that riding the Iowa by-ways on two wheels is a great way to enjoy and appreciate God's creation. (Riding in areas that look so different from Iowa, like South Dakota, is a great way to be reminded that my immediate world is very tiny and that God's creation takes many different forms!)
Of course, one of the things I like best about bike blessing events is that they signify the beginning of the riding season. But more than that, they are an opportunity to acknowledge that there is some risk in riding, and that you have to be able to pretty much put yourself in God's hands when you ride because you simply can't control every risk factor. It's humbling. Sometimes, it's even emotional, but maybe that's just me.
We're headed to the first of the area bike blessings soon, so it seemed like a good time to mention a few of them that I know of. If you know of another and would like to list it here, feel free to add it in the comments.
How about you – do you enjoy blessing events? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Saturday, April 12 – 11 am at Route 65 Harley Davidson in Indianola.
Saturday, April 19 – Big Barn Harley Davidson in Des Moines, blessing at 11 a.m. with chili feed to follow.
Saturday, April 26 – 2 pm at Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend, Iowa (I've already got a ride planned for this date, but I'm putting the Grotto Blessing on my must-do list for 2015.)
Saturday, April 26 – F&J Racing blessing, 10 am at the American Legion Post in Marshalltown, Iowa.
Sunday, May 4 – Noon at Prairie Ridge Church in Ankeny, Iowa.
Flickr photo by mobhistory.
The Winter from Hell, and the first ride of Spring
by Corn Dog on April 5, 2014
in Iowa Rides
I was beginning to think this Winter wasn't going to end.
Seriously, we had snow flurries as recently as Thursday of this past week. That's APRIL, y'all, and that hardly ever happens in Iowa! (It does happen though… way back in 1973 when yours truly was 10 years old, we had 18 inches of snow in early April. It all melted a few days later, of course, but we still talk about that some 40 years later so really, it was epic.)
Anyway, it has been a longer-than-normal, colder-than-normal, colder-earlier-and-stayed-that-way-longer-than-normal Winter. Not only did we not get our first ride in February, we almost didn't get it in March either. But finally… FINALLY… we managed to catch suitable temperatures on a weekend – but for the second year in a row our first ride of the season was comparatively late, taking place on Sunday March 30th!
My initial plan was to ride to brunch, then go for some kind of short scenic ride to the south. We knew we were going to have to jump start Steve's bike, because it's ten years old with the original battery and we hadn't used battery tenders over the winter. We soon found out, though, that poor Kitten wouldn't start either! So, Plan B was: go to brunch, then come home and get both bikes running, then take a short ride to Indianola for ice cream.
After brunch, while Steve pulled out the battery charger and jumper box to start work on the bikes, I grabbed the keys so I could move his seldom-used pickup into the side yard. This was so that we'd have plenty of room to maneuver back into the garage when we came home. But, I quickly discovered that his truck wouldn't start either!
So first order of business was to get the truck going. Once that happened, I moved it over to the sideyard and let it run so it would be sure to re-start.
Meanwhile, Steve set about removing my bike seat so he could get to my battery. By that time, Howard and Kristin had arrived to go with us – fortunately they are patient and appreciate a good comedy-of-errors, because I swear it took all four of us about 30 minutes of wrestling with the seat before someone had the big idea to read the directions.
Ah, okay, seat off… now back to the directions to figure out how to get the battery cover off… battery now hooked up to the jumper box, and Kitten roared to life. Hello, Kitty! I swear I just about wept with joy.
Moved on to Steve's bike… same procedure but without having to read the directions… his bike was rumbling within a few minutes, and finally, after all that, off we went!
Now right here I need to confess, in all seriousness, that there was a point in late Winter where I could barely summon the enthusiasm I usually have for the first ride of the season – or anything else for that matter. I entertained the thought that perhaps I didn't care about riding anymore. I thought about giving it up. I was quite simply depressed.
Fortunately, seeing Kitten gleaming in the driveway was a miracle cure for my lingering sense of indifference. And after a few minutes of cruising down one of my favorite south-bound county roads, R63, I was once again near tears of joy (I'm starting to think I might simply be hormonal…)
I love R63 for its roadside meadows and sweeping curves. But because the meadows are still in un-green shades of dormant, I made those curves my singular focus (aside from looking out for suicidal animals, of course): setting my line, looking out to the end of the curve, trusting my bike to dip into the apex and then righting myself and setting for the next one. It was a joy!
And when we arrived in Indianola, we pulled into the A&W under the awning and I dismounted my bike, eager to pull off my helmet and share my happiness with my friends. As I turned to say something appropriately meaningful (a.k.a., "dorky"), my husband switched off his bike and said, "Did you turn off the truck before we left?"
(Crickets chirping.)
Well now. That would be a no. No, I did not. Or to put it another way: Yes, we are 30 miles down the road and our pickup truck is idling unattended at home. Hmmm. I offered to call the neighbor, whose last name and phone number might as well be Smith and 7, respectively, because I have no idea what they really are, but assumed I had the resources to find them by accessing certain websites on my handy-dandy smartphone.
But ultimately, Steve said to just let it be. No one would come into the yard and take the truck with all of our other cars sitting there like we were home, he reasoned.
The worst part would be reporting it to the insurance company and admitting how suspiciously easy we had made it for the theft to occur on a $900 truck.
Well that kind of burst my happy bubble surrounding the curves of R63, but we did enjoy our ice cream and too soon were headed back toward home – down the same road we'd come in on but cruising past the junction at R63 and traveling a bit further west to its cousin, Highway 28 at Martensdale.
Back up to Des Moines through Martensdale, Prole, and Norwalk, a farewell wave to Howard and Kristin, and finally pulled into the driveway at home to find Steve's truck still idling in the yard.
So – all's well that ends well I suppose. Including the Winter That Refused to Die.
Ten years and counting!
by Corn Dog on February 1, 2014
in Tenth Anniversary
In 2004, a number of really important things happened: Janet Jackson had a wardrobe malfunction; John Kerry (now Secretary of State) ran against incumbent George W. Bush for President; Martha Stewart began a five-month prison sentence, and…
That's right, 2014 marks the TENTH blogiversary of Biker Chick News! That's some pretty good staying-power, considering that a boatload of other blogs – motorcycle-related or otherwise – have come and gone over the years.
And while 10 is a pretty amazing number when it comes to blogiversaries, here are just a few MORE numbers that I find really interesting.
10 years
452 blog posts
1,054 comments
1,500 site visits in May 2006
49,032 site visits in January 2014
361,287 site visits in all of 2013
2,161 Fans on Facebook
As always, I want to say THANK YOU to everyone who reads this blog and/or shares their thoughts. I have a few fun things planned for the blog this year, and I hope you will stick around!
How to use windshield time
by Corn Dog on January 28, 2014
in Blowing a Gasket
This week in our local weekly business newspaper, a well-known sales coach offers up some suggestions for how the busy and motivated sales person can use their "windshield time" – the time they spend behind the wheel, going to and from sales appointments – to increase their chances of a successful sales call. He encourages them to use the time to anticipate or reflect upon the appointment, and gives suggestions such as:
- Listen to CD's that inspire and motivate you.
- Voice-to-text yourself the primary questions you want to ask your prospect.
- Listen to the music that gets you pumped up and excited to go in and be your best!
But, I've got a better idea for sales people and everyone else behind the wheel: stop fiddling with the knobs, buttons and electronic devices, and pay attention to your driving. Hurtling around town in a 3,000-pound-plus automobile carries with it a responsibility – primarily, the responsibility not to harm others. You are far less likely to cause harm to others if you are paying attention to the road.
I know this might put a cramp in your style if you're a sales person who drives to and from appointments and needs to squeeze productivity from every second of the day. But let's face it: if you cause an accident on your way to that sales call because you were digging your favorite motivational disc out of the console, you're going to be late and blow the sale anyway.
Believe me when I say (and this applies to everyone, not just sales people), everyone who is in your path appreciates your attention to the task of driving.
Would that we all were using our "windshield time" to see and process what's actually happening on the road ahead of us.
International Female Ride Day moves to Saturday
by Corn Dog on January 25, 2014
in Women Riders
I was interested – and glad – to see that International Female Ride Day will now be held on a Saturday. This means I (and millions of female riders like me who are tied to the US version of a "work week") will not have to burn a vacation day to participate.
And participate I will! Now make no mistake, ANY day I ride is a "female ride day" – and I don't depend on a designated day or month to validate me as a female rider. But I don't begrudge the fact that there IS a designated day – in fact I think it's kinda cool. And I've always wanted to be able to say that I rode with millions of women worldwide on IFRD. This year, it looks like I'll have that opportunity on Saturday, May 3.
Here's the full story, from founder Vickie Gray's website, Motoress.
Thanks to BCN reader Kathy W. for the tip, shared in the comments on my calendar post!


text:
AirTalk for January 28, 2014
Time Warner launches SportsNet LA for Dodgers ball -- will cable and satellite providers buy in?
Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images
Dodger fans look at fly over the stadium by F-18 fighter jets from Naval Air Station Lemoore during pregame ceremonies during the home opener against the Pittsburgh Pirates begin as the season-long celebration of Dodger Stadium's 50th anniversary kicks off on April 10, 2012.
Time Warner Cable launched the site for their exclusive Dodgers network. The channel's television debut is set for February 25th, just before the Dodgers begin their spring training games.
As part of their $8.5 billion dollar deal with the Dodgers, Time Warner has sole access to games and behind-the-scenes coverage -- the cable provider is responsible for securing deals with other cable and satellite operators to air the channel.
SportsNet LA is expected to cost about $5 per subscriber. Negotiations over pricing and subscription levels have begun already and may last until just before opening day. Time Warner struck similar deals with providers for their Lakers channel.
How do cable and satellite operators negotiate contracts when one provider has exclusive access to a channel? What is fair to consumers when it comes to pricing?
Courtney M. Brunious, Associate Director of the University of Southern California's Sports Business Institute.
Michael Grebb, Executive Editor, CableFAX

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Available Projects
I just purchased this for my bathroom fan
I cannot turn the fan on using the timer. As a matter of fact, the timer LED lights don't turn on at all like there is no electricity.
Here was what I did:
1. I check the feed line into the switch and there was electricity. So I cannot blame the wiring
2. I use another wire to run directly between the two black wires (see photo #3) and the fan turns on when I touch them together. That means the fan works!!
3. Now the last thinking I have is that this fan may not be compatible with my new switch. I read online and they said the switch works with fan >0.3amp. I took the picture of this fan (made by Mercury which probably doesn't exist any more) in photo #1. You can see it said ".7 AMP" on the label. I am not sure if I am reading it correctly or not.
Is there anything else I should check before I call support, or return this switch or buy new fan?
I like the switch though. Very nicely design.This message has been edited. Last edited by: quanghoc,
Does the switch have a setting that overrides the settings of the device? As in manually turn the fan on & off. Or even a line voltage and load voltage set screw location? Meaning the incoming power supply must be on one certain screw. And the switch leg must be on the other.
PS, Tidy up those connections present as they look rather poorly made up. If it is just temporary then I apologize and stand corrected. This message has been edited. Last edited by: CommonwealthSparky,
Popeye only reached for the Spinach can as a last resort...
I'm a fan (no pun intended)of the Lutron Maestro switches. But I have not installed this unit, and it doesn't say it is a Maestro. So here's my guess. Remove the cover if it hasn't been, look for a little slide switch on the outskirts of the white portion. Yes, it's small. It could be the switch Sparky said to look for.
Also, it looks to me like the red wire cap can be removed and connect the wire direct to the switch.This message has been edited. Last edited by: Re-mdlr,
They make it look so easy on tv, don't they
And I'll add this: Your white jumper certainly indicates that the switch itself is not working. While it is possible for a new switch to be defective a sad but true fact is that some people will fry a switch (or other electrical component) then put it back in it's carton and return it. I've found that if an electrical part at a home store is in a package that has been taped back together that there is a pretty high chance that the item is no good.
Meaning that one of your easier trouble-shooting methods would be to get another switch and see if it works.
@Sparky and? @Re-mdlr: are you talking about checking the FASS switch? It has a little "tab" on the bottom. The only time the whole switch is nonoperational is when the tab is pushed and the OFF bar is showed (like photo).
From Lutron: All Lutron dimmers have an air-gap off. Typically this is integrated into a slider or paddle switch. Some dimmers have electronics that stay active when the lights are off, such as an infrared receiver. For these products, the air gap is activated by a separate Front Accessible Service Switch (FASS). When open, the FASS completely disconnects the power to the load. This ensures that there is no leakage current to the fixture during routine lamp maintenance. In addition, when the FASS is open, no remote locations (3-way, etc.) can re-energize the circuit.
I know when I've installed the Maestro switches, they have a little tab that slides to shut off the switch. So slide it, pull it, push it, try it, see what happens.
They make it look so easy on tv, don't they
So I replaced with a new switch and it works. I wonder if somehow I fried the previous one!? Is it even possible... LOL
Good to hear about things working well know. I doubt if you fried the first device, but with electronics packed into these new fangled devices it too is possible. Lets just say it is that one out of a hundred that made it out of the factory defective.
As Jaybee posted the best practice while shopping is to never be the consumer that picks up that taped up package. Let the store eat that one at all costs. This message has been edited. Last edited by: CommonwealthSparky,
Popeye only reached for the Spinach can as a last resort...
Oh yeah I avoided these like plague (unless they have 60% discount and I could return it .. lol)
I will leave it there few more days to see if the darn thing gonna continue to work or not. Crossing finger.
Me as well. I will make the purchase if as when shopping at the local Ace store because one is the magic inventory number at a small store. I too mention to the clerk present about the taped package and its possible return if defective. Usually all is well though.
Popeye only reached for the Spinach can as a last resort...
|Powered by Social Strata
For general message board help, click the tab labeled "Tools," and choose "Help" from the dropdown menu.


text:
((Okay, I thought the title was cute XD.))
My voice must be changing or something. Before, I couldn't hit anything higher than a D above high C, and now I can go from an E below middle C to a B above high C. That's like, what, two octaves? Something like that XD.
I'm also excited because the local theatre is holding auditions for Carousel soon. I'm going to audition with my friend Kip and our audition song is going to be "I'll Make a Man out of You" from Mulan. We're good at that. We've also memorized monologues: hers is from the Wizard of Oz and mine is from You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown.
Catch ya on the flip side!


text:
|Content Category: New & Noteworthy
|Report: More Utilities Looking To Wind, Nuclear Power
|on Friday June 15 2007 by NAW Staff
|PricewaterhouseCoopers has released "Energy and Efficiency: Utilities Global Survey 2007," an annual survey that includes input from 114 power companies in 44 countries and reveals [read more]
|Vestas Breaks Ground On First North American Manufacturing Plant
|on Friday June 15 2007 by NAW Staff
|Vestas Blades of Denmark has broken ground on its first North American manufacturing plant in Windsor, Colo. According to Vestas, the $62 million, 200,000 square-foot [read more]
|Canadian Renewable Energy Industry Network Created
|on Thursday June 14 2007 by NAW Staff
|The Canadian GeoExchange Coalition (CGC), the Canadian Hydropower Association (CHA), the Canadian Solar Industries Association (CanSIA), and the Canadian Wind Energy Association (CanWEA) have announced [read more]
|Manitoba Joins Western Regional Climate Action Initiative
|on Wednesday June 13 2007 by NAW Staff
|Manitoba Premier Gary Doer has announced that the Province of Manitoba joined with six western U.S. states and the Province of British Columbia in the [read more]
|Nordic To Manufacture Wind Turbines In The U.S.
|on Wednesday June 13 2007 by NAW Staff
|Nordic Windpower, a California-based wind turbine manufacturer, has launched its global business in North America. The company says its Nordic N1000 turbine, which will be [read more]
|Tennessee Residents Favor Expanded Wind Energy
|on Tuesday June 12 2007 by NAW Staff
|According to Invenergy Inc., a new poll in Tennessee indicates that residents support increased use of wind energy by a 12-to-1 margin. "This poll clearly [read more]
|Gov. Patrick Announces Clean Energy Plans For MA
|on Tuesday June 12 2007 by NAW Staff
|At the inaugural meeting of the Clean Energy Roundtable, a quarterly gathering with solar, wind, bioenergy, fuel cell and energy service executives to discuss renewable [read more]
|BPA Awards Funding For Four Wind Energy Research Projects
|on Tuesday June 12 2007 by NAW Staff
|Following a 2006 request for proposals (RFP), Portland, Ore.-headquartered Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) has awarded nearly $2 million in contracts to research and develop ways [read more]
|FPL Energy Files Texas Transmission Application
|on Friday June 01 2007 by NAW Staff
|Lone Star Transmission LLC, a subsidiary of Juno Beach, Fla.-headquarted FPL Energy LLC, has filed an application with the Public Utility Commission of Texas for [read more]
|GE, AAER Sign Licensing Agreement
|on Thursday May 31 2007 by NAW Staff
|GE Energy has signed a patent licensing agreement with AAER Inc. of Bromont, Quebec, regarding GE's variable speed technology for wind turbines.The agreement authorizes AAER [read more]
|Duke Energy Acquires Tierra Energy's Wind Business
|on Wednesday May 30 2007 by NAW Staff
|Charlotte, N.C.-headquartered Duke Energy has acquired the wind power development business of Austin, Texas-based Tierra Energy.The purchase includes more than 1,000 MW of wind assets [read more]
|ACEEE, ACORE Release Energy Efficiency Study
|on Tuesday May 29 2007 by NAW Staff
|The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) and the American Council On Renewable Energy (ACORE) recently completed a report that reveals steps that can [read more]
|Iberenova To Incorporate Iberdrola RE Assets
|on Friday May 25 2007 by NAW Staff
|Iberdrola, a Spain-headquartered electric utility and wind power developer, plans to sell up to 20% of shares in its renewable energy subsidiary Iberdrola Energias Renovables [read more]
|Suzlon, Areva Sign Framework For Shareholding In REpower
|on Friday May 25 2007 by NAW Staff
|India-based wind turbine manufacturer Suzlon Energy Ltd. and French nuclear power developer Areva Group SA have signed a binding agreement governing a framework for the [read more]
|PEI Wind Farm Exports Power To U.S.
|on Wednesday May 16 2007 by NAW Staff
|West Cape Wind Energy Inc., a subsidiary of Ventus Energy and owner of the West Cape wind farm located near O'Leary, Prince Edward Island (PEI), [read more]


text:
Dals /kadhi and kathol
Trevti Dal ( Gujarati Recipe)
Viewed 6014 times
As the 'trevti' in the title suggests, this is a combination of three dals simmered with spices. The use of three dals imparts a special feel to this otherwise simple day-to-day dal, which goes very well with bajra rotla and lehsun ki chutney. As a variation, you can use urad dal instead of yellow...
Drinks & Farsan
One Dish Meals
Rotlis & Vegetables


text:
FREE Shipping
On $175+
14-Day Low Price Guarantee
Same Day Shipping
FREE Shipping on
Orders Over $175
Standard ground shipping (1-7 business days) starts at a low $5.99 and most orders over $175 ship FREE.
Learn More
If you find a product we sell for a lower price at another online store, we will match their price—today and up to 14 days after you've purchased the item!
Learn More
Same Day Shipping
We promise to ship your order as fast as humanly possible. In fact, 99% of orders placed before 6 pm EST ship the same day!
Learn More
Shop by Brand
Reef Calculators
Holiday Gift Guide
Your cart is currently empty.
Items in your cart
Sign in Your Account
My Account
My Wish List
My Order History
My Email Preferences
★ Holiday Filter Media Sale! Save 10% with coupon MEDIA. Ends 12/22.
Learn More
Aquarium Supplements
Additives & Supplements
Coral Cleaners / Dips
Pest & Aiptasia Control
Aquariums & Stands
Pico / Nano Aquariums
Medium / Large Aquariums
Aquarium Accessories
Calcium & Media Reactors
Calcium Reactors
Carbon & GFO Reactors
BioPellet Reactors
Other Reactors
CO2 & Air Pumps
Air Pumps
CO2 Systems
Controllers & Testing
Controllers & Monitors
Test Kits
Auto Top Off Units
Aquarium Filters
Overflow Boxes
Refugiums / Sumps
Wet/Dry Filters
Filter Media
Filter Pads & Socks
Fish & Coral Foods
Dry Foods
Frozen / Refrigerated Foods
Liquid Foods
Feeding Tools
Heaters & Chillers
Chillers & Fans
Temperature Controllers
LED Lighting & Moonlights
T5 Lighting
Metal Halide Lighting
Replacement Bulbs
Parts, Ballasts & Accessories
Maintenance &
Salt Mix
Algae Scrapers
Algae Magnets
Cleaning Supplies
Tongs & Tweezers
Salt Mixes
Plumbing Parts
Ball, Gate & Check Valves
Bulkheads & Strainers
Flexible Tubings & Clamps
Flow Accelerators
Loc-Line Fittings
PVC Fittings
Return Pipes & Parts
RO Fittings & Valves
Teflon Tape & Lubricants
Protein Skimmers
Hang-On Skimmers
In-Sump Skimmers
Recirculating / External Skimmers
Pumps & Powerheads
Powerheads (Submersible)
Water Pumps (External)
Dosing Pumps
Auto Top Off
Reverse Osmosis
RO Systems
RO/DI Systems
RO Filter Replacements
RO Accessories
RO Fittings & Valves
Sand & Rock
Live Sand & Substrates
Live Rock
Dry Rock
UV Sterilizers & Ozonizers
UV Sterilizers
Coral Propagation
Coral Glue & Epoxy
Frag Plugs, Discs & Racks
Acclimation Tools
Containers & Traps
GFCI Cords & Ground Probes
Marine Depot T-Shirts
Freshwater Specialty
Additives & Supplements
Aquariums / Tanks
Planted Aquariums
Pond Supplies
Test Kits
Reef Tank Packages
Catalog Quick Order
Gift Certificates
Free Shipping
Print Page
Add to Favorites
Aquarium Filters & Fish Tank Filters (Canister, Inline, Internal, Undergravel, Power and Wet/Dry Filter)
External Canister Filters
Aquarium Pharmaceuticals NEXX Canister Aquarium Filters
A modular filter that grows with your needs; you have the ability to add EXTENSIONS to the FILTER in order to increase filtration capabilities.
Aquarium Pharmaceuticals API
FilStar xP Canister Aquarium Filters
Easy-to-use and extremely powerful with multi-stage filtration (mechanical, chemical & biological) and bypass-free circulation (ensures complete water flow through the filter media).
Cobalt Aquatics EXT Canister Filter
The Cobalt Aquatics E-X-T aquarium canister filter is the most innovative canister available. Its unique inline pump allows complete flexibility on any aquarium, terrarium or vivarium setup.
Eheim Ecco Pro Canister Fish Tank Filters
Easy handling & setup, low maintenance, high efficiency, multi-stage filtration, all at an affordable price. 3 sizes available for up to an 80 gal aquarium.
Eheim Classic Canister Aquarium Filters
(2213, 2215, 2217, 2250, 2260, 2262)
Proven technology, balanced performance & high efficiency are the hallmarks of the entry model for external EHEIM filters.
Eheim Professionel Canister Fish Tank Filters
(2222, 2224)
The 2222 & 2224 offer optimum filtration as well as easy handling and service.
Eheim Professionel II Thermofilters
(2126, 2128)
Eheim 2126 & 2128 include integrated electronically controlled heaters.
Eheim Professionel 3 / Ultra Canister Fish Tank Filters (2071, 2073, 2075)
Eheim Pro 3 combines high output as well as large canister and filter volume with the unbeatable EHEIM ease of use.
Eheim Professionel 3e Electronic External Aquarium Filter (2076, 2078)
The 2076 & 2078 incorporates all the great features, lock clamps, self primer, shut-off valves for hoses, multiple Media Baskets, plus an exciting new electronic touch pad control system.
Fluval Canister Fish Tank Filters
Combines innovation and convenience with a high level of performance. Simple to use and economically priced for aquariums 25 to 100 gal.
Hydor Professional Canister Filters
Ultra quiet and efficient canister filters that are great for both freshwater and saltwater aquariums. Compact footprints and large filtration volumes. Complete 4-stage filtration.
JBJ Reaction 4-Stage Canister Aquarium Filters with UV
Reaction 4-Stage Canisters are high-capacity filtration systems that utilize mechanical, chemical and biological filtration with UV sterilization to create a well-balanced aquarium.
Marineland Magnum C-Series, H.O.T. & 350 Canister Fish Tank Filters
C-Series forces water to pass through the filter media trays and not around them. H.O.T. (Hang On Tank) Magnum is an efficient, powerful, compact canister filter.
Nu-Clear Aquarium Canister Aquarium Filters
A high-end hobbyists line of module filter. These filters are extremely well-designed and are built to last.
Tom Aquatics Rapids Pro Series Canister Aquarium Filter
The Pro Series supplies optimum and efficient filtration for saltwater aquariums, engineered to deliver unsurpassed 3-stage filtration (mechanical, chemical and biological).
Inline/Specialty Filters
AquaMaxx Media Reactors
AquaMaxx offers a complete line of specialized media reactors to help marine and reef aquarium hobbyists manage their tanks more efficiently and effectively.
Berlin Sump Aquarium/Water Filtration System
High quality built and designed sumps for your aquarium. Two sizes available for aquariums up to 250 gallons.
CAD Lights Media Reactors
A media reactor desgined for your nano reef. Works great with bio-pellets, GFO or carbon.
CPR Aquatic Tumbler Media Reactors
CPR Tumblers make adding chemical filtration media to saltwater and freshwater aquariums significantly easier and more effective than currently used methods.
Hydra Aquatics BioPellet Reactors
Used to boost biological activity in an aquarium with the use of biopellet media. The reactor works by pushing a stream of water trough an accelerator which agitates the media and puts it in motion within the reactor.
Innovative Marine MiniMax All-In-One Media Reactors
Minimizes the need for flexible tubes, pvc pipes, ball valves, thumb screws, and unnecessary clutter. Designed to be discreetly hidden behind All-In-One Aquariums or placed directly in sumps.
Kent Marine GFO Phos Reactor
Primarily intended to be used with phosphate-removal media, however it may be used with numerous filtration media to best suit the changing needs of the aquarium.
Korallin BioDenitrator
This revolutionary design makes denitrifaction easy and efficient. Feeding to the bacteria is not necessary; just put the unit into your system and let it run for a few weeks.
Lifegard Aquatics Fluidized Bed Filters
Extremely efficient, high capacity "biological" filter. Tested and proven to supply the highest level of effluent water quality and will respond quickly and efficiently to severe changes in ammonia levels
Lifegard Aquatics Inline Aquarium Filters
Modular designed filters that enable you to customize and expand your filtration. Mechanical, Chemical, Heating and UV sterilizer modules available in three different sizes.
Marine Depot GFO and Carbon Filter Media Reactor
Finally, an easy-to-use media reactor that is both economical and durable! Great for use with GFO (granular ferrous oxide), activated carbon, biological media or other aquarium filter media.
NextReef Media Reactors
Features a massive 4-inch reaction chamber. The extra wide design maximizes water to media contact, increasing efficiency and minimizing dead zones in the reactor. Perfect for phosphate control, de-nitrification or fluidized sand filtration.
NextReef Aquarium Sumps
Sumps by NextReef Sump Systems are designed to be flexible and efficient - they`re the perfect core for any aqaurium filtration system.
Precision Marine Refugiums/Sumps
Fabricated entirely of Made in U.S.A. cast acrylic. Available in packages that includes Redline protein skimmers.
Precision Marine GFO Reverse Flow Substrate Reactors
For use with the substrate/media of your choice. Includes custom die-cut sponges. Utilizing Precision Marine's unique Quik-Lok Lid, servicing your SR is a breeze.
Reef Octopus Biopellet and Media Reactors
Efficiently fluidizes the biopellet media without blasting the media itself with direct flow pressure. This unique motion allows greater suspension of the media within its cyclone "churn" style motion created by the patten pending churn wheel and rotor.
Tunze Comline Filters
The new Tunze Comline® filters opens the way for compact aquarium components designed for internal operation, are ultra-functional and are highly-sophisticated.
Two Little Fishies GFO Phosban Reactor
Designed with the upflow principle to achieve the most efficient use of Phosban or other chemical filter media.
ZEO Method Starter Kits
AquaMaxx ZEO Reactor + a choice of either ZEOvit or Brighwell NeoZeo products. Everything you need to get started.
Internal/Undergravel Filters
Eheim Aquaball Internal Fish Tank Filters
Revolutionary ball in socket design allows adjustable water flow in any direction. EHEIM Aquaball filter is available in four different sizes or as a powerhead alone.
Ista Hydro Bio Sponge Filters
Assures greater working life and its dense porous foam tissue forms large and ideal surface area for bacteria colonization and filtration. Easy to install, simple to maintain and low cost. For raising fry, to breed, or keep delicate species.
Aquarium Pharmaceuticals API SuperClean 10 Internal Power Filter
API SUPERCLEAN internal power filter is a low maintenance, easy to use, compact filter for small aquariums up to 10 US gallons. API SUPERCLEAN makes water clean and crystal clear.
Power Hang-On Filters
Eheim Liberty Hang-On Aquarium Filters
A compact, complete and powerful filter that combines the advantages of easy handling with effective water purification by mechanical, biological and adsorptive means.
AquaClear Power/Hang-On Fish Tank Filters
Complete filtration with a large media volume for mechanical, chemical & biological filtration in one unit. Five sizes available for aquariums up to 110 gallons.
Marineland Penguin Bio-Wheel
Power/Hang-On Aquarium Filters
Delivers easy, three-stage mechanical, chemical and biological aquarium filtration. Biological filtration is provided by the revolutionary and patented BIO-Wheel - proven best at removing toxic ammonia and nitrite.
Aquarium Pharmaceuticals API SuperClean Power Filters
With many effective and innovative features, the API SuperClean Power Filter will help to keep your aquarium clean and crystal clear.
Wet/Dry Filters
CPR Wet/Dry Aquarium Filters
CPR filters are designed for long term reliability and ease of maintenance. These filters incorporate superior design features.
CPR Overflow Boxes
If you do not have a pre-drilled aquarium to drain water from your main tank to your sump or wet/dry filter, an external overflow box will be needed to accomplish this task.
Precision Marine Wet/Dry Trickle Fish Tank Filters
These top-quality reservoir/bio filters are made from the best 3/8" domestic cell cast material money can buy. Two different sizes available.
Filter Accessories
Aquarium Filter Pads
(Poly Filter, Pure Flo, Rainbow Lifegard)
Filter pads that can be cut to size for trapping detritus in wet/dry and sump type filters. An excellent mechanical filter media.
Rainbow Lifegard Bio Balls
Suitable for wet/dry filters for fresh and saltwater aquariums. Provides the maximum surface area and the greatest possible mix of air and water.
Fish Tank Filter Media Bags
Filter media bags, made of nylon mesh, hold carbon, ammonia and phosphate removing media. Available in micron and dimensional sizes with a drawstring top for convenience.
Aquarium Filter Socks
Excellent for trapping detritus and reducing air bubbles in the main aquarium.
Hagen Filter Maintenance Tools
Different sizes brushes for all your cleaning needs for your filters, flexible tubes and rigid tubing.
Eheim Filter Replacement Parts and Accessories
Brushes, tubing and all the replacement parts to keep your filter running smoothly.
Eheim Filter Surface Suction Extractor & Prefilter
The extractor skims off the protein layer on the water surface, improving oxygen exchange. The prefilter traps coarse particles before they reach the filter.
Tom Aquatics Surface Skimmer
Removes dissolved organics from the surface and increases gas exchange. Can be used with canister filters, power filters and in-hood filtration.
Two Little Fishies Air Flow Parts & Accessories
Parts and accessories that regulate air flow such as hose fittings, ball & micro valves, etc.
Featured Products
NextReef NRS-24 Aquarium Sump
Aquarium Pharmaceuticals® API SuperClean 5-20 Power Filter
Fluval 206 External Canister Filter (up to 45 Gallons)
Price: $225.49
Price: $19.99
Price: $135.99
Aquarium Filters are used to process waste and impurities to maintain pristine water quality and keep your tank inhabitants healthy. There are numerous types of fish tank filters, each a little different and used in different applications. A
quick lesson in aquarium filters
will teach you the basics and help you make a more educated purchase.
Some of the most popular filters include the Canister Filters and Hang on the Tank Power Filters. These filters are suitable for freshwater, saltwater and reptile/amphibian set ups.
Internal filters can be very useful in
quarantine aquariums
, freshwater tanks, temporary holding tanks and reptile/amphibian setups.
Wet/dry filters
rapidly breakdown ammonia and nitrite making these filters extremely efficient and an outstanding choice for freshwater and saltwater aquariums.
Specialized reactors such as the phosphate /
GFO reactors
reactors (marine aquariums only) can be very helpful in lowering nitrate and phosphate levels.
This item is temporarily unavailable but will be back in stock soon.
Item #
Click the
Add To Cart
button below if you'd like to reserve this item today. Any other items included in your order will be immediately processed and shipped. We will ship this item separately as soon as it arrives. We will not charge you for this item until it ships and you will incur no additional shipping charges.
Enter your email address in the field below and click the
Notify Me
button if you'd like us to send you an email when this item becomes available. Although you will be immediately notified when we have stock on hand, we will not reserve any units for you; you must return to our website and place an order.
Your Email:
Yes! Please subscribe me to the newsletter.
Just enter your email address below and we'll let you know when the product you are looking for becomes available!
Item Code:
Your Email:
Yes! Please subscribe me to the newsletter.
Email Specials
Newsletter Tips & Tricks! New Products!
Discounts & Promos!
Email is Private & Secure
Nov 24, 2014
"Shipping was easy and quick; customer service was great."
Nov 23, 2014
"Huge fan of the early online Black Friday deals!! Makes getting large purchases like a protein skimmer much more reasonable."
Nov 22, 2014
"Always love the service and speed of receiving my product."
Deal of the Day
Weekly Specials
Clearance Items
New Items
Shop By Brand
Gift Certificates
Catalog Quick Order
Coupon Codes
Will Call
Shop for Fish & Corals
Contact Us
How to Order
How to Cancel an Order
How to Track an Order
How to Pay
How Shipping Works
Free Shipping Promotion
How Will Call Works
How to Return an Item
Low Price Guarantee
About Us
Office Hours & Location
Frequently Asked Questions
Career Opportunities
Education Center
Aquarium Calculators
Press & Awards
Request a Catalog
Privacy & Security
Site Map
Sign In
Forgot Password
Update Account Info
Email Preferences
My Address Book
My Shopping Cart
My Wish Lists
My Order History
Save Money
Get our best deals, product how-tos and expert tips delivered weekly to your inbox.
No Thanks
I'll pay full price


text:
Help! I Cannot Uninstall PasswordAttendant 1.04?
Do you want to uninstall PasswordAttendant 1.04 but you don't know how to do this? If this is the case then I will tell you the exact method to completely uninstall and remove PasswordAttendant 1.04 from your computer in 6 easy to perform steps.
How to Uninstall PasswordAttendant 1.04 from my PC?
What to Do If You Couldn't Uninstall PasswordAttendant 1.04?
If you have uninstalled PasswordAttendant 1.04 as stated above, but you can still see "PasswordAttendant 1.04" folder at C:/Program Files, which means PasswordAttendant 1.04 isn't completely uninstalled.
Uninstall PasswordAttendant 1.04 By Using An Uninstaller
It's highly recommended to use an uninstaller so you can avoid wasting lots of time or damaging your computer which can cost you a lot of money too.
Troubled with Unwanted App?Try to Uninstall it Now


text:
More in Outdoors
Use a concrete saw with a hose attachment to remove damaged part of step. The hose helps keep the blade cool and keep down dust. ( Follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe use of the concrete saw.)
Build a form for the step. In our case, we used a piece of lumber. Spray form with cooking oil to keep it from sticking to concrete.
Mix concrete to manufacturer's instructions and pour into form. Tap form to remove air pockets in the cement and to help it settle. Use a magnesium float to smooth the cement. Finish off with a trowel. Remove form. Avoid walking on the step for 24 hours or more, depending on the cure rate for your cement product.
Fix your yard with host Jason Cameron.
All fields are required.
E-mail Address:
Remember me on this computer
Signing in
Please enter your email address and we will send your password
E-mail Address
Your password has been sent and should arrive in your mailbox very soon.
Sign up with DIY Network to share tips with other do-it-yourselfers and comment and ask questions on projects.
It's free and easy.


text:
Well, you KNOW I love my birthday! If you've followed me for a while you know my birthday is a time for celebration! When I was about to turn 20 I kind of freaked out. I seriously did. LOL. It was a difficult birthday for me as the days led up to it...maybe because I was no longer a teen. But, I had a friend who totally inspired me. She told me that she gives gifts on her birthday & she LOVES her birthday because it's a time to celebrate life, love, family, friends & even strangers. THAT HIT A CORD with me! And the next day, on my 20th birthday, I focused on other people all day long. And you know what? She was right...from then on I've LOVED my birthdays! So...each year I love to give things away, share kindness, and uplift and inspire others. This year is no exception! I've got a bunch of things going on...so: here goes!
1. Be sure you are signed up for my newsletter, because there are a couple of prezzies in there that's ONLY for today, October 23! You won't want to miss them!
2. I left another prezzie on my Instagram @rhonnafarrer. Run on over to see what that is!
3. Twitter has a fun one, too! *winkwink* @rhonnafarrer Go on over, find my tweet & follow the directions!
4. Facebook has a little *somethin' somethin' as well.
5. Pinterest might have something that might interest you. ;)
6. and HERE, on my blog I've got a FUN giveaway! Remember my fave uplifting and inspiring book company, Compendium? Welllllll.....today I"m giving away some of my fave products from them!
I LOVE this book...it is completely amazing!
Like you can see from all of these little prezzies I'm showering around...one thing's in common. Sharing. Giving. Share your thoughts, share a message, share the image, share a smile, share a kind deed, share you heart..whatever you want...just leave a comment here for a chance to WIN this book. You will want to share this message w/ others, I'm sure!
#upliftandinspire #sharegoodness #shareservice
Happy Birthday, everyone! May our year be filled with more love, more light, more kindness & more peace!


text:
Leading Online Video Platform Leverages Drupal to Power Corporate Site
Woburn, MA – September 14, 2009-- Acquia, the enterprise guide to the Drupal social publishing system, today announced that leading online video platform, Brightcove, has selected Drupal as its content management solution of choice and is working with Acquia for complete support of the firm's many Drupal Web properties. Brightcove is leveraging Acquia Drupal, a packaged collection of Drupal essentials, to rollout websites quickly and cost effectively to engage with its community.
Nous offrons beaucoup d'outils et de services pour vous aider à réussir avec Drupal, pour en savoir plus et commencer gratuitement.


text:
Our Featured Vancouver, WA Partner:
N.W. Bird Rescue
Pet adoption saves lives. Adopt a pet and you'll have a friend for life! Contact us, or contact another local humane society, animal shelter or SPCA.
13245 SE Mill Plain Blvd.
Suite C-8 #101
Vancouver, WA 98684
(360) 247-3626
Pets at Our Rescue Group:
Cities, Towns, and/or Counties We Serve:S.W Washington State,Portland. Oregon
About Our Rescue Group:A brief description of our Founder; Christopher Driggins
Since 1986 Christopher Birdman Driggins has been placing rescuing exotic birds and started rescuing wild bird in 1995 in Southern California. Christopher Driggins started rescuing birds on a larger scale in the fall of 1999 in Oregon City, Oregon where he started Oregon City Bird Rescue (O.B.E.R.) out of a small apartment in Oregon City Oregon. He began placing exotic parrots to the special needs individuals in the community. Christopher then expanded his bird rescue efforts and purchased a house in Vancouver Washington in the fall of 2001. Christopher then started Birdmans Exotic Bird Rescue and then incorporated his name to N.W.Bird Rescue & Adoption Orphanage in February of 2006. N.W. Bird Rescue is a bird welfare organization provides for the complete physical, psychological and environmental well being of the birds in the organizations care. Christopher focused on the welfare of orphaned exotic birds in the Southwest Washington area and the Portland Oregon metro area. Christopher Driggins N.W. Bird Rescue is a bird welfare organization insures that whether the birds remain in a sanctuary, in rehabilitation, and are placed into adoptive or foster homes, or local wild birds are released back to their natural habitat, that the birds are continually nurtured. The bird welfare organization also provides for the general welfare of birds in the public domain by providing accurate, comprehensive and reliable educational materials and resources to the public.
The Organization provides sanctuary and cares for all birds that are exotic that are suitable for adoption or placement in foster care or for persons that have specifically requested that their birds remain in permanent sanctuary. All sanctuary birds receive the same high level of care as the birds available for adoption and foster care. Sanctuary birds are housed in species-specific rooms of our main facility and have access to outdoor flights, abundant enrichment, and psychological and environmental support on a daily basis. The facilities provide:
A safe haven for birds that prefer not to interact with humans in a companion animal situation as well as those that need a new human companion and are available for adoption.
A home for birds with chronic disease with supportive care and nurturance.
Staff dedicated to meet the needs of the individual bird.
Educational programs that focus on some of the sanctuary birds' specific needs or problems, indigenous habitats, conservation status, or social interaction to promote the parrot welfare cause
Nurturing and care for wild birds that are injured or in some specific need of our services so that they may be returned to their natural habitat or sanctuary as quickly as possible.
The organization defines "to rescue" is to bring a bird that is in an acute, life threatening situation or is in immediate need of assistance into a safe environment to be cared for by a knowledgeable and dedicated staff committed to improving the bird's quality of life. The organization rescues:
Birds found in deplorable conditions or in danger either by the general public, the foundation itself, or by animal control officers.
Birds owned by owners who, because they were unable to provide a safe environment for the birds, turned the birds over to our Organization.
Donate to Our Rescue Group...https://www.paypal.com/us/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_flow&SESSION=Cx8QVRPfL93g_-QMCRIc6bW87ZNCDZv9FuZrEjzEFCemvWqBAywtnV_PfWu&dispatch=5885d80a13c0db1f8e263663d3faee8d0288a7fd2903afb85a5540fd44243d03
Come Meet our Pets:We will announce our adoption events
Our Adoption Process:All adopters are required to sign an agreement that allows us to conduct a pre-home visit, and one possible post home visit within the first two years of placement of an exotic bird.
Rehoming fee is required for all placements.


text:
Wow i am on a roll twice in one week!!! Lets c here what has happened so far. Well for starters i made the girls JV team!!! practice is like so much fun, but we do a lot a lot of running!!! This week is spirit week for school. Monday was wear ur class colors day so i wore black and white cause those our are colors and are class mascott is a panther! They like totally decked out the front of the auditorium and it was like a wedding! both the king and queen had on all white and the parents " gave them away " it was really funny especially the dance that they had to do. My friends Tasha and Ryan were the sophmores class representitives. Ryan is like really short and Tasha is like really tall almost my height! They had to do this move where the guys held up their arms and the girls had to go undernieth them as if they were twirliing. Ryan had his arm strait up and tasha still had to duck! Then for the las t part of the dance the guys had to catch the girls, and ryan almost dropped tasha! it was so funny Alex and i were on the ground rolling we were laughing so hard! Yesterday was formal day so like all of these guys and girls were wearing their prom dresses, and tuxes. it was kinda stupid they had the blindfolded pudding eating contest yesterday to. i didn't watch though. Today was dress as your favorite childhood memory. so i wore my strawberry shortcake shirt. we had simon says today and i didn't watch that either! tomorrow is wear ur halloween costume and the dancers that are representing ur class are having this big competition matt and jacky are in it so it should be hilarious! Well DJ is an ass whole and is not going to winter ball this year so i am roally pissed at him about that. I am deffinatly not over him. on saturday band put on a haunted house which was so...... much fun! DJ and i got into this fullout huge fight over this glow in the dark plastic sword! Put it this way i took the sword from him so he threw his arms around me from behind, and started to tickle me, and if any body knows me they know how ticklesh i am, so i fell to the ground on my stomach with my cell in my back pocket, Dj fell on top of me like with his leg on my butt so my phone started to ring and when my phone rings it vibrates first. so it started to vibrate and DJ jumped up and backwords and was like YOUR VIBRATING!!! It was hilarious. then he got the sword from me and went out side. so i went outside a little while later and he saw me and took off over the railing and around these huge trailers. and i had problems getting over the raling and then he was off around the truck things so i screamed Damn u x - country person! just joking obviously. He then ran in to the guys bathroom and like locked him self in the one stall thats in there. i was like shit, so matt went in side and riley was in the middle of changing. so matt was like riley putt on ur shirt. so he did and matt dragged him out. He was then like its all clear tanya so i went in to get the sword and matt turned out the lights and shut and locked the door. i was like damn't so eventually i found Dj huddled up in too a ball in the corner of the stall swaying forward and backword, chanting she cant see me, she cant see me. So i climbed on to the top of the stall door so i was straddling it getting ready to jump in to the stall with him. when he looked up and saw me and was like whooo. so he got up and opened the stall door so it swung open when i was still on top of it. he then managed to get matt to unlike da door and let him out. he was like matt, tanya is having some technical difficulties and so matt came in and it took him and four other guys too get me down from up there! it was soo much fun though. Any way the haunted house was a success. I finally have planes for halloween night. I am going with matt, isaac, and aleena trick o treating, then to matts house t o watch a movie then to the bowling alley at midnight to bowl from midnight too six am on saturday. it should be a lot of fun. any wayz ill right more later. i ll leave u with the Jv girls soccer team chant that we made up to day " lady VIKES rest VIKES VIKES LADY VIKES!!! "
Post a comment in response:
|© 2002-2008. Blurty Journal. All rights reserved.


text:
Rebecca Miller to Direct Greta Gerwig Rom-Com
Undateable no longer.
Skip to content, or skip to search.
Skip to content, or skip to search.
Undateable no longer.
The novelist and filmmaker on the wisdom of not casting her husband, Daniel Day-Lewis.
She may be the daughter of Arthur Miller and wife of Daniel Day-Lewis, but Rebecca Miller is making her own mark on the film and literary worlds.


text:
Monta Ellis Likely To Opt Out Of Final Year With Bucks
Monta Ellis will likely invoke the early termination option on his contract and become an unrestricted free agent this summer.
Ellis, 27, is on the books for $11 million next season.
Ellis' scoring has wildly fluctuated this season -- he has shot 41 percent from the floor and 29 percent from three-point range.


text:
Archive for June, 2012
World Record: Most Consecutive No-Look Half Court Shots
Jason "White Shadow" Gibbons completed three no-look half court shots in a row, a http://RecordSetter.com world record.
Russian Egg Roulette – Video
Lincolnshire hosts the annual Egg Russian Roulette World Championships.
Thermal Mapping The Retina MacBook Pro
This is your Retina Macbook Pro doing nothing. This is your Retina Macbook Pro melting… Via


text:
6 Reasons Youre Going to be Obsessed with the Hot Guys of Divergent
Divergent (out March 21) tells the story of fearless power girl Tris (played by Shailene Woodley), whos fighting for her life! Bonus: She has an army of guy candy by her side to help her out. Meet them now and get ready to become obsessed in 3 2 1
By Alex Abel
5. They've Had Their Hearts Broken!
As cute as the Divergent dudes are, they can still relate to being totally crushed by someone you like. Ansel Elgort, who plays Caleb, Tris' bro, admitted it took almost a year to get to a place where he was totally over his first relationship. "It's hard, but you have to look and realize that a year of your time feeling that way sucks, but it's so necessary to get you to what amazing things will come next," he said. Love it, Ansel!


text:
For the last five summers, Logan Mallek has followed in his family's footsteps by playing for the Stevens Point Sixers American Legion Baseball team.
After becoming a regular in his second year, Mallek has been one of the top pitchers in the Wisconsin Valley Legion League (WVLL) the last three seasons, where he has played for his cousin, Point manager Luke Suchon.
Mallek will get a chance to end his Legion career when he competes in the Legion All-Star Game at Miller Park in Milwaukee, Sunday, Aug. 18, as he will be joined by Suchon, who was selected to coach in the game.
The rest of this content is only available in our print edition.
Subscribe or locate a newsstand.