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|By PlatformPCPS3Xbox 360Wii U3DSPS VitaAndroidiPhoneiPadOther HardwareEditor's Choiceby Author
|By LatestThe best and worst s : May Returns The Crew
8.0Guilty Gear Xrd -SIGN-
9.0Lara Croft and the Temple of...
6.0Kingdom Hearts 2.5 HD ReMIX
9.0Destiny: The Dark Below
6.5Review in Progress: Destiny: The...
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Castlevania. Mega Man. And finally, Contra. With this, my holy trinity is complete.
In celebration of the 25th anniversary of the greatest run and gun videogame series ever, Allistair Pinsof ranked the top five Contra games. But what is a game without a kickass soundtrack to back it up? Nothing, that's what!
Contra games are balls hard, so the music needs to fill you with the strength to tackle impossible odds without fear or hesitation. From electronica to hard rock to symphonic orchestrations, every note imbues you with confidence -- and maybe a little bit of bravado as well.
Get ready to attack aggressively with the top ten Contra songs of all time!view full story + comments
While other kids were chasing mushrooms, leveling up mages, and debating boss orders, real tough guys were playing Contra. Though the series saw a dip in quality in the PlayStation generation, it still stands as one of the most intense and consistent action series. In celebration of the series 25th anniversary this week, it's time we take a look back.
In the late '80s, arcade games relied on tough as nails difficulty and a series of increasingly outlandish scenarios to keep kids glued to a cabinet, feeding coins by the minute. Contra was one of the first series to bring this action to home consoles, giving players unforgettable boss encounters, a world that combines Hollywood blockbusters of the era, and a cheat code to memorize for a lifetime.
Contra has gone through many console generations and styles, but these are the top five worth returning to, time and time again.view full story + comments
When I first heard that Electronic Arts was suing Zynga over The Ville, a rather blatant ripoff of EA's The Sims Social, I was pretty excited to see the outcome. After all, there's nothing worse than a company whose only business model is to steal the works of small game developers, and given some of The Ville's obvious lifts, it seemed as though EA had a very solid case.view full story + comments
The Crysis series is well-known in the PC community as being the benchmark of sorts for games that require a high-end computer to run. It began in 2007 with the release of the first Crysis. It's undeniable that the game had stunningly beautiful graphics -- that is, if you actually had a machine capable of running it. Few people did. Ever since, Crysis has been more or less synonymous with "you better have a supercomputer if you want this to look right."
To coincide with this week's Crysis 3 launch, let's look back and give homage to some of the games that aren't named Crysis that undoubtedly live up to this standard.view full story + comments
Wherever there is public interest, there are con artists preying upon the susceptible. How many shoddily-built iPod rip-offs must one buy or mid-life-crisis-inducing timeshares must one occupy, before this lesson is learned?
Videogames occupy a rather extreme section of entertainment; one in which consumers have a rabid enthusiasm which rivals that of comicbook collectors and movie fanatics. This enthusiasm feeds into an online culture in which a single screenshot or scrap of info is cut open, examined front-to-back, and repeatedly discussed until anything that can be said has been said a hundred times over.
It's a culture ripe for manipulation. And, man, if these PS4 scam sites don't know it.view full story + comments
If you were to poll me as to what some of my favorite games of all time were, you'd see a lot of Clover Studio and Platinum Games titles on that list. Quite a bit, actually.
Both studios are comprised of brilliant minds that are somehow able to encapsulate what I love most about Eastern games again and again.
They're charming, challenging, and all around fun experiences that remind you why you became a gamer in the first place.view full story + comments
On President's Day, it's our duty as bloggers to supply the unwashed, malnourished Kmart-lovin' masses of America with reminders of awesome, fictional Presidents in games. I mean, it's not like I get to take the day off, so what the heck else am I going to write about?
A Google search and office poll later, it became very apparent to me that most videogame presidents aren't ones anyone would want in office, in real life. Nonetheless, there are a few men, machine, and feline presidents that our current leader could learn some valuable lessons from.
Join me on this historic trek through great presidential moments in virtual history.view full story + comments
If you're anything like me, Valentine's Day is a very special time of year. A time to be reminded that your crippling social anxieties and complete lack of desirable personality traits mean you're likely to spend the rest of your sad life painfully alone (and don't try to pretend it's because you're such a "nice guy," because you're probably a scumbag).
Thankfully, we'll always have our favorite escapist media to keep us company, the magic of video games allowing poor souls like myself to embark on soul-searching adventures, challenge power-hungry villains, and of course, fall in love with a variety of glamorous heroines.
Thing is, though these various ladies of gaming all have something special to offer, many come complete with a few unforeseen pitfalls. Point is, if you're planning on spending this lover's holiday piss-drunk, fantasizing about your favorite digital damsels, the last thing you want to do is pick a clunker. That's why I've compiled this handy field guide on nine gaming girlfriends to avoid.
Valentine's Day inspires a variety of emotions. While love is in the air for many, cupid has more sinister plans for a select few. A poor Valentine's Day for an average person might include seeing a movie alone or a solitude induced weep-fest. For the videogame characters below, the luxury of loneliness is miniature in comparison.
Take a look at ten relationships gone awry in the worst ways possible.view full story + comments
Valentine's Day isn't always about getting taken out to dinner and receiving fancy treats and trinkets. Okay, well maybe it is, but who's to say that you can't get a little gaming on the side?
Consider spending some quality time with your boyfriend by reeling him into the following co-op games. If he resists, consider your future with him wisely...view full story + comments
Taylor is an avid gamer, sushi lover, and overall nerd. After founding two gaming-related sites of her own, she went on to intern with G4, and can now be found across the interwebs writing about videogames of all kinds.
At least one day a year, petty squabbles among couples take a back seat in the name of love. While birthdays and anniversaries are special, there is arguably no occasion more romantic than Valentine's Day. The term love conquers all might elicit apathetic sentiments 364 days a year but on that one special day in mid-February, those dreamy, heartwarming emotions are as real as ever.
An intrinsic dilemma arises. When words don't suffice, how does you show your special someone that they love them? The average guy or gal might be satisfied with a shiny new watch, a fancy necklace, or even a meager gift of socks; but gamers on the other hand, have a luxury of being bit more creative. Here are five twists on the traditional romance formula with ways to show a gamer how you feel this Valentine's Day.view full story + comments
Everyone's always talking about their radar. "Definitely adding this to my radar" or "This kind of flew off my radar after a while." Well, I'm about to bombard your radar with so many bleeps, sweeps, and creeps that you won't know where your free time went.
So here it goes, 30 indie titles that all look like they're going to be an absolute blast to play, in one way or another. Not including SpyParty, of course. You already know how excited I am for that one.view full story + comments
One of the elements of classic horror is that when the horrible thing you are dreading finally happens, it happens in a way far more gruesome than you expect. Visceral Games got this part right so many times in its Dead Space series that I wonder if I've become desensitized to alien dismemberment at this point. Even if I have, I am still disturbed by watching series protagonist Isaac Clarke meet his end, time and time again.
The list of memorable player deaths in Dead Space and its sequels are sickening. So, let's revel in it and count down the best of the bunch.view full story + comments
By now, you may have heard the inarguable, absolute truth -- as is the case with Destructoid's reviews that are handed down from the maker to our holy reviewers -- that Dead Space 3 is not as great as the first two games.
Before we brashly label Dead Space 3 as less than great, we should put things in perspective. How? First, by remembering Dead Space 1 and 2 are two of the greatest games of the past decade. Secondly, by taking a look at these five turds of space horror.view full story + comments
Fire Emblem is a pretty mysterious series to many gamers out there. Firstly, it's a strategy RPG (SRPG), which already places it in an established niche. Then you have to consider the fact that Nintendo didn't release the ser...
|Chris Carter
By now, you may have heard the inarguable, absolute truth -- as is the case with Destructoid's reviews that are handed down from the maker to our holy reviewers -- that Dead Space 3 is not as great as the first two games.
Being the case, throwing a temper tantrum and spamming EA's Facebook with inflammatory comments is understandable, but why not do something more productive, like play five other space-horror classics instead?
(Or, just go ahead and play Dead Space 3 which is still really awesome for what it is!)view full story + comments


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What did the King of Pop and the Black Mamba have in common?
Apparently plenty, starting with their work ethic and ending with their struggle ini being different. MTV caught up with Kobe Bryant last week and asked him about the influence Michael Jackson had on him.
Who knew?
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Costalita Ground Floor Apartment
Official Contact Details - Costalita Ground Floor ApartmentPhone: +34952896933
Stunning Brand New 3 Bed 3 Bath apartment only 100 metres to beach in the prestigous development of Costalita. This apartment has huge terraces and is perfect for families. Stunning Swimming Pool.
- Price from 125 EUR / Day
- Capacity up to 6 people
- 3 bedrooms & 3 bathrooms
(click on a photo to view it)
Last updated: 01/08/2008
This is your property ?
Brand New 3 bedroom 3 bathroom ground floor apartment, fully furnished to an extremely high standard. This property is situated only 1 minutes walk to the beach through lush gardens. This large ground floor corner apartment has large terraces which surround the apartment, they are furnished with luxury sun loungers, dining table and chairs.
The apartment has been furnished to a very high standard with leather sofas, glass and marble dining table, leather chairs, flat screen tv, dvd player and satellite tv. The property has been furnished in creams and beiges. The master bedroom has a king size bed, fitted wardrobes, and ensuite bathroom. The second bedroom has a double bed with ensuite bathroom and fitted wardrobes also. The third bedroom has twin beds and has direct access onto the terrace. Opposite is the third bathroom with a walk in shower.
The kitchen is large with a spacious utility area. The kitchen comes equipped with all mod cons.
The communal swimming pool is located close by and is a very good size.
The property is in an area called Costalita which is halway between Estepona and San Pedro de Alcantara. You can reach the beach by walking through the communal gardens and close by are several beach bars, restaurants and supermarkets.
This property is truly luxurious and is the perfect place to spend your next holiday.
Prices & deals
- Lowest Daily Price:
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- Cleaning fee:
- Charging Method:
- Payment Types:
- Cash
- Credit Card
- Cheque
- Travellers cheque
- Paypal
- Wire Transfer
Location & area
Costalita is found on the Beach halfway between San Pedro and Estepona. The apartment is only 100 metres to the beach and you can reach it by walking through the communal gardens.
Close by are the towns of San Pedro and Estepona and the apartment is within 5 minutes drive of over 15 restaurants and bars. Along the beach are 4 beach bars which are perfect to spend the day at that is if you can drag yourself away from the large communal swimming pool.
- Address:
- 121 Fase 6 Costalita Urbis, 29680, Costalita, Spain
- Accommodation located in:
- coastal, leisure area, near cultural interest, near diving spot, near fishing area, near golf course, near historical interest, near horse riding, near restaurants & bars, near shopping area, near ski area, near tennis courts, near the beach, near water sports, resort, village!
Amenities & services
# of Units: 1... and each unit includes:
- Bedrooms: 3
- Bathrooms: 3
- Single beds: 2
- Double beds: 2
- Baby cots: 0
- Single sofa beds: 0
- Double sofa beds: 0
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Review - Costalita Ground Floor Apartment
Costalita Ground Floor Apartment - Contact the owner
Important Notice : Avoiding Fraud
It's rare, but some helpful hints to watch out for with regards to fraud:
- It is important to NEVER wire funds or use/employ other fund transfer mechanisms such as western union: Always use a credit card to protect yourself against fraud. If owners pressure you into providing a deposit or refuse to accept credit cards, there is a high probability that this is a scam.
- If at all suspicious of fraud, ask to see their website, or any other literature they can provide or send to you. Ask them for contact details for guests who have previously stayed on their property insisting on telephone numbers. Be suspicious of emails that originate from free email services (yahoo, hotmail, gmail, etc)
- Research the property thoroughly on the internet to see if there is any history or mention of scams associated with the property.


text: Ecclestone: No way teams will get 70% of F1 19 May, 2011 Bernie Ecclestone on collision course with Formula 1 teams May 19 (GMM) Bernie Ecclestone has scoffed at Ferrari's latest breakaway series threat and declared that there is no way that Formula 1 teams will get the 70% ownership of the sport's rights which they are angling for. Luca di Montezemolo The Italian marque's president Luca di Montezemolo warned that Ferrari and the other teams could walk away from the sport's current owners CVC at the end of the 2012 Concorde Agreement. Asked about Montezemolo's comments, Formula 1 chief executive Ecclestone told Swiss newspaper Blick: "Oh yes, we all know Montezemolo's emotional side. But how often has Ferrari actually gone?" The Formula 1 supremo sounded confident about the future beyond the current commercial agreement, saying: "Forget the Concorde Agreement. CVC bought Formula 1 at a time when there was basically no Concorde Agreement and the manufacturers were threatening us with a rival series." Yet another battle for control of Formula 1 "So it was the worst possible time to buy and yet CVC paid good money. Today the risk is even lower," added Ecclestone. It has been suggested teams want their share of Formula 1's revenue pie to be increased from 50 per cent in the current Concorde to 70pc in 2013. "In the last five Concorde Agreements the teams wanted more money. There is no chance they're getting 70 per cent," declared Ecclestone. The Concorde Agreement is a contract between the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), the Formula One teams (FOTA)) and the Formula One Administration which dictates the terms by which the teams compete in races and take their share of the television revenues and prize money. There have been six separate Concorde Agreements: The first in 1981, others in 1987, 1992, 1997, and 1998, and the current agreement in 2009. Tweet Bec It the teams get 70% of the money raised by Bernie, it will just mean more money will have to be raised, which means More races in countries that will pay more, less races in countries that pay less. Monaco = $0 Monza = $5 million Abu Dhabi 40 million China $38 million Support FOTA and lose races in Europe, simple. If I was Mr. E, I'd give them 70% and dump Monza and Spa, and then watch mad Monty's face … There is an alternative of course, bring in a Cost cap, then the teams won't need $400,000,000 to do what they were doing 10 years ago with $30,000,000. h.wilson scoff from your retirement vila you old goat..AND they should be after 100% and toss all you stinking money-lenders into the gutter where you belong..MOVE ON !t


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BUFFALO, N.Y. -- A Western New York group is working to to spruce South Buffalo with 400 new trees.
Re-Tree WNY kicked off the planting blitz Thursday on South Park Avenue.
Tree-lined streets are part of the $2.5-Million "SPARK" or South Park Avenue Revitalization Project.
Organizers are looking for 400-volunteers to help plant Swamp White Oak, Japanese Lilac and Ginko trees along the business strip October 30.
"All of those species are readily salt tolerant, drought tolerant and should stand a better chance of surviving in what is a tough situation for anything to grow which are these street side tree beds," said Buffalo Public Works Deputy Commissioners Andrew Rabb.
"We'll be seeing a big, big change on the street. Our volunteer efforts are key to this," said Re-Tree WNY Chairman Paul Maurer.
The South Park Re-Tree effort is part of Buffalo's reforesting efforts to replace the 70,000 trees damaged by The 2006 October Storm.
A 560-tree Buffalo city-wide planting is scheduled for November 6.
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Seattle Superintendent does about-face over school for disabled childrenon March 12, 2014 @ 5:41 am (Updated: 2:26 pm - 3/12/14 )
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Northwest Center was told in late December that they had six months to vacate the building. They say that's not enough time to find a new location that fits the needs of their disabled children.
At issue are internal emails between school district employees that show they could have given Northwest Center nearly two years notice but purposely told the school there was no plan to drop the lease until six months ago.
On Monday, KIRO Radio's Colleen O'Brien asked Seattle Schools Superintendent Jose Banda point blank about those internal emails that misled Northwest Center.
Banda would not give a firm answer regarding those emails.
He contends that yes, the emails indicated they were considering Northwest Center's building but said nothing was decided, which is why they didn't tell Northwest Center CEO Tom Everill about their plans earlier.
"Could've, should've, would've. I don't know, I'd have to go back and take a look at all of those emails again," said Banda. "I think that, again, we let him know as soon as we knew for sure that the building was going to be needed. Seven months notice. Is it sufficient? I don't know. I think that in the end we'll find out if that was enough time for them to find a new location."
We'll have to wait and see, however, for the families of these developmentally and physically disabled children there is no room to experiment with timelines.
Now, two weeks ago Banda proposed extending Northwest Center's lease by six months. That would give them until December to find a new home - rather than June.
He explained to Cascade Program parents, who are set to take over the Northwest Center building, that he is just trying to do the right thing.
"It's not that I don't care about Cascade. It's not that I don't have my allegiance to Cascade. Part of that is just trying to be a good neighbor since no one else it stepping up to try and help the Northwest Center to find another new facility," Banda said at that meeting.
Then, last Friday he did an about face telling Northwest Center, that they would still need to be out of their building by June.
And Tuesday he told KIRO Radio the district doesn't have to do a thing for Northwest Center.
"Let me make it real clear, we are not agents for the Northwest Center, so we're not out there actually seeking real estate for them, that's their responsibility," he said.
If we're following the timeline, Superintendent Banda went from, "We want to help Northwest Center in any way we can, we want to be good neighbors," to "We are not agents for Northwest Center," they need to find a new building on their own.
However, he did make an offer to have Northwest Center combine with Cascade at the soon-to-be demolished Wilson-Pacific building in Greenwood.
A building that Cascade's principal told me is swept weekly for drug needles, feces and has no healthy drinking water.
"I'm not familiar about the drinking water, that's the first time I've heard (that)," said Banda.
There are signs posted at Cascade that say there are issues with the drinking water, but Banda contended that he couldn't respond to that. "I don't know. I haven't heard that there are issues with the drinking water. You're going to have problems probably with an intercom but I don't think that that would be a deal breaker."
So it remains, Northwest Center is searching desperately for a new location to house their 120 children.
Nothing will stack up to their current home on North Queen Anne because it was just renovated by a group of charitable builders and contractors (NAIOP) to the tune of $400,000.
The internal school district emails obtained by KIRO Radio show the district pointed NAIOP in the direction of Northwest Center knowing the district would eventually benefit from the project.
Superintendent Banda denied knowing much about that.
"We don't have any record that Northwest Center or NAIOP or anyone engaged the district in the self-help process, so we don't even know to what extent what was done or what improvements were made to the school," he said.
Colleen O'Brien anchors The Morning News on KIRO Radio, weekdays from 5 to 9 a.m.
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Ramos Gin Fizz
|Old Tom Gin (or Plymouth)
|Lemon juice
|Lime juice
|Simple syrup
|Orange flower water
|Vanilla extract (very optional)
|Egg white
|Soda water
|Orange bitters (on top)
Cocktail summary
|Created by
|Henry C. Ramos, Imperial Cabinet Saloon
|Posted by
|Dan on 06/06/2010
Not having any Old Tom handy, I've been making these sacrilegiously with about a half ounce of London Dry ('m low) and 3/4 ounce each El Dorado 3 year and Delord white Armagnac. The rum and especially the brandy play very well with the creamsicle-y flavor of the orange flower water and cream. Worth a shot if you've got 'em and if you've already had the Ramos the right way. If you haven't, get on that: this is a justified classic, the kind of delicious and refreshing cocktail that everyone can love, and that includes gin-phobes and the "fruity, not too strong" crowd.
So per Rob Marais' request, I did something neat last night with the Ramos -- ran it through an ISI whipper. Here's how I did it. First, batch everything except the egg white, bitters and the soda (we're not using it) and put it in the refrigerator to get as cold as you can get it. When it's cold, in your shaker, add 2 teaspoons additional lemon juice, 1/4 oz water, the egg white, and the spring off a Hawthorne strainer and dry shake the egg white until it's foamy. The water aids in foaming, the acid stabilizes foam, and the spring acts like a whisk. Remove the spring, and add all the pre-batched stuff and another 1/2 oz water, fill the shaker with ice, and shake like hell for 30 seconds. Remember, you're adding all this extra water to make up for lack of melt and cooling! Strain this into an ISI whipper, charge with 1 charge of nitrous, and shake for 30 seconds. Dispense the foamed Ramos into a 10 oz. Collins glass (you should have some left over), and garnish with bitters. You're going to need a straw for this one -- as the liquid phase separates from the bubbles, it can be drunk off the bottom, but trying to drink this without a straw is asking for trouble, and a foam moustache.
Zach, I thank you. I can't wait to make this "lazy man's" Ramos Gin Fizz in an ISI. Right now, I'm thinking Saturday morning at 10 a.m. might be optimal!
Chris at 1022 South makes a delicious derivative of this drink using Cognac and Creme de Violette instead of gin and simple syrup, finished with a little rose cordial
Curated slightly: Changed gin from gin (old tom or plymouth) to Old Tom Gin. Added history, creator, and date.
Has anyone ever had a ramos with Ransom? Seems like it would be pretty strange...
Nope, but agree that it would be a kinda odd use of Ransom. Love Ransom, but wouldn't substitute it for dry gin in a Ramos Gin Fizz.
Hmm.... It wasn't really until 1910 that sales of Old Tom and London Dry gin (which only became possible with the column still) were equivalent in the US, and the 20's before London Dry really began to dominate the market. The article on Hayman's Old Tom on the Haus Alpenz website mentions that Old Tom was used in the Ramos.
Next time I'm somewhere I can have a decent drink, I'll have them make me a Hayman's Ramos Gin Fizz and we'll see ;)
From other users
Similar cocktails
- Earl Grey MarTEAni — Gin, Egg white, Simple syrup, Lemon juice, Lemon peel
- Sureau Fizz — Gin, Elderflower liqueur, Heavy cream, Soda water, Egg white, Lime juice, Simple syrup, Lemon juice, Orange flower water, Orange peel
- Eagle's Dream (Robert Hess) — Gin, Crème de Violette, Egg white, Lemon juice, Sugar
- Boca Arriba — Blanco tequila, Lager, Falernum, Coconut milk, Lime juice, Hot sauce, Egg white, Tamarind syrup
- Jacqueline — Gin, Crème Yvette, Egg white, Lemon juice, Syrup of roses, Cucumber
- No Moon At All — Gin, Chambord, Crème de Violette, Crème de Cacao, Egg white, Lemon juice
- Pink Lady — Gin, Apple brandy, Egg white, Grenadine, Lemon juice
- White Lady (Esquire) — Gin, Triple sec, Egg white, Lemon juice
- Blue Moon — Gin, Crème de Violette, Egg white, Lemon juice, Lemon peel
- In-Flight-Cookie — Gin, Ginger liqueur, Cardamom bitters, Half-and-half, Speculoos, Aztec Chocolate bitters, Nutmeg, Maple syrup


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I bought Hide Bella Hide from Essence Eclipse TE only because it looked like a good polish for konading. It wasn't long I spotted an almost dupe in my collection – p2 Glamour, so I made a comparison. I used two layers of p2 Galmour on my ring finger and two coats of Essence Hide Bella Hide on my little ...Read More »
Monthly Archives: July 2010
Too Faced haul and EOTD
I was shopping at Sephora yesterday. Among other (two nail polishes, a lip gloss and an eyeshadow) I bought my first Too Faced product! I'm excited! Look, what I got! I love the funny writings on their packaging, like "Product tested on celebrities not animals" or "Forget Wall St., invest in make-up!" Aren't they funny? I can't believe that I ...Read More »
Essence Undead? (Eclipse TE)
Hundred times seen Essence Undead? polish from Eclipse TE … one swatch more won't hurt, right? I like the base, shimmer also, but in my opinion this shade lacks depth. If I find time in a near future, I'll play around with it and create something more to my liking. I used two layers + top coat. Application was OK, ...Read More »
Sunset …
Pag Sunset - Summer 2010Sončni zahod Pag - Poletje 2010Read More »
With flowers in my hair
Follow my blog with bloglovin In the summer I like flowers in my hair. I think it looks very ... well ... summery.Poleti se rada privoščim nekaj rožic v laseh. Enostavno izgleda tako ... no... pač, poletno.Read More »
Review and swatches: Essence – Smokey Eyes Set – Punk Vibe + quick EOTD
I'm really impressed by the Smokey Eyes Sets by Essence. There are two different sets. One is black and the other brown. I showed you swatches of both in THIS post. The set comes with a gel liner, eyeshadow and an applicator (sponge, brush). The packaging is OK. Not fancy but useful, robust and quite easy to handle. The eyeshadow ...Read More »
Zoya – Charla
I already showed you my absolute winner from Zoya's Sparkle collection. It's of course Ivanka. Today I'll show you another great shade from the same collection. The shade is called Charla. OPI's Catch Me In Your Net supposed to be a less opaque dupe of Zoya's Charla. I can't confirm that (yet), but they sure look very similar. I only ...Read More »


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Great toy for toss, tugging, cuddling and playing! Small size for anyone to throw and a great feel your dog can't resist.
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Bring your group to Breck and they'll talk about the experience here for years. Breckenridge is easy to access, and even easier to explore once you arrive.
With over 150 years of history and its charming character, Breckenridge greets you with endless possibilities for a successful event. The town provides a setting where you can kick it up or kick back – discover heritage sites, ski and ride four mountain peaks or check out the world's only 27-hole, Jack Nicklaus-designed municipal golf course.
Your group will have the ultimate blend of activities to explore, and the BCVB will be your personal guide. Breck is accessible and offers free in-town transportation so it's easy to explore the vibrancy of historic Main Street or the variety of teambuilding and group activities. Once you GoBreck, you won't go back.


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If your child has an esophageal disorder (esophageal atresia, tracheoesophageal fistula, etc.) or requires surgery, we have the expertise to help.
The Esophageal Center coordinates each child's evaluations, as well as operative and diagnostic procedures, so each patient can be evaluated at one time by our renowned team of specialists in pediatric surgery, otolaryngology, pulmonology and gastroenterology. This team of specialists works collaboratively to develop an appropriate treatment plan for your child's condition. Our surgical expertise includes:
Together, our team of subspecialists has 258 years of combined pediatric surgical experience. Leading the team is renowned pediatric surgeon Daniel von Allmen, MD. Patients have traveled from as far as Kuwait to have esophageal surgery performed by our team.As director of Pediatric General and Thoracic Surgery Division, Dr. von Allmen specializes in treating children like yours who face the challenges of complex esophageal disorders such as esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula.
After several failed attempts to reconstruct her son Emmett's esophagus, Karla Rauch traveled to the Esophageal Center at Cincinnati Children's for a second opinion. Today, following successful esophagus replacement surgery, Emmett is eating by mouth and is a "completely different child."Read more in Carla's post on the Cincinnati Children's blog.
UPDATE: Emmett realizes his dream of playing soccer
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Brunotti's Mexico jacket comes with all the bells and whistles (well, high-tech materials, zips, pockets, snow cuffs etc.) that you need to keep you warm and dry in the mountains. Cosy, warm, functional and stylish the Brunotti Ytinka fleece will keep you toasty when kiting or out partying. Y'thinka? Forsura!
Brunotti Jacket featured in Most Wanted Issue #37
Brunotti Jackets
Added: 2009-02-26
Category: Gear
Kitesurfing Test - Boards 2013
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Kitesurfing Test - Kites 2013
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Magnotta jury fails to come a verdict on Day 5; will return to work on...
City moves into tie with Chelsea after sixth straight Premier League win
Kourtney Kardashian has revealed that it certainly wasn't love at first...
Just 8 per cent of Toronto kids are black, but 41 per cent of kids in care...
MILTON - A candlelight vigil was held in Milton Friday, following the...
Milton is ending the year with a bang.
With the population hitting the 100,000 mark by year's end, according to Town planning estimates, the town is staying true to its ranking as Canada's fastest growing community.
Milton Acting CAO Bill Mann said the Town is excited about seeing its vision for the community come to fruition.
He said Milton truly embodies a place where you can live, work and play.
Over the last 15 years, the Town has made a considerable effort to attract people through affordable housing and businesses that will in turn create employment opportunities, according to Mann.
He added the Town has also been creating more neighbourhood parks and building a complete community that has recreational facilities, an arts centre and other amenities, while ensuring residents have the required essential services.
Mann cited that Milton is home to large distribution centres for Target and Lowe's. The Target distribution centre set to open in May 2013 will be a 1.3 million-sq.-ft. facility and will employ hundreds of people, while the Lowe's distribution centre, which broke ground last August, will be a 626,000-sq.-ft. facility also expected to employ hundreds of people.
Mann said the Town is guided by the principles of growth engrained in its strategic plan.
He said in 1997, the Town's official plan anticipated Halton Region's delivery in 2000 of 'The Big Pipe' carrying Lake Ontario water up from Oakville to Milton, and a population that would grow to about 165,000 people by 2021.
Mann said the Town is keeping pace and may exceed that estimate, considering the population grew from 31,471 residents in 2001 to 53,889 in 2006 and 84,362 in 2011, according to census data.
"If we're able to generate intensification, our population may be 185,000 in 2021 and then by 2031 we're looking at a minimum of 236,000 people," he said, adding that Milton has the potential to grow out to 300,000 to 350,000 people. "(If so) Milton will ultimately be larger than Burlington and Oakville."
But developing and shaping Milton hasn't come without a price.
"As you can appreciate in any community that is growing as fast as we are, we are experiencing growing pains," said Mann.
The Town is doing everything in its power to ensure schools, transportation and transit and the hospital keeps up with the population boom.
He said Craig Kielburger Secondary School opened this year and a new catholic high school will open the following year.
Mann added the Town is working with the Region to widen Regional Road 25 and Tremaine Road. Tremaine Road has already been widened between Main Street and Derry Road and next spring there are plans to widen it from Derry to Britannia roads and then from Main Street to Steeles Avenue.
There's also a long-term plan to expand transit service, have two more GO stops within Milton and encourage the community to get out of cars and walk, cycle or use public transit.
The hospital will also be expanded, with the first patient likely to be seen in December 2017 or January 2018.
"If you look at the last census, the average age dropped down to 34. That's the youngest age in any community," he said. "And when you look at the birth rate, we have the highest birthrate at 1,500 births a year, which is phenomenal, hence our need to expand the hospital."
He said the Town is taking on the challenges head-on and planning for the future.
Other major projects down the line include seeing the Milton Education Village come to fruition and encouraging the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) to work with Mohawk Racetracks to have a full casino and entertainment complex built. He said it would include a hotel and golf course.
Mann said Milton may be expanding, but it hasn't lost its roots.
"We're still maintaining that small town atmosphere," he said, adding that the town has a tremendous historical fabric. "One of the most beautiful things about Milton is people are on a first-name basis."
He said with the Niagara Escarpment as its backdrop, Milton is really the place to be.
"There is tremendous opportunity within Milton," he said. "Growing pains will always be there, but they're manageable and will diminish as we move forward to ultimate state of Milton."
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Customer Service
Where to begin
Number one, this should be fun for you and your dog. Be upbeat and take things slowly. Do not overly restrain your dog. Keep sessions short and positive. Be sure to praise your dog throughout the process. Give yourself a pat on the back, too! You are doing a great thing for your dog!
First, have your dog get used to you putting things in his mouth. Dip your finger in beef bouillon. Call your dog with a voice that means "treat" and let your dog lick the liquid off your finger. Then rub your soaked finger gently over your dog's gums and teeth. After a few sessions, your dog should actually look forward to this and you can move on.
Now, place a gauze around your finger. (You can again dip it in the bouillon.) Gently rub the teeth in a circular motion with your gauzed finger. Repeat this for the number of sessions it takes your dog to feel comfortable with this procedure. Remember to praise him and keep an upbeat attitude.
After your dog is used to having the flavored gauze in his mouth, you are ready to start with a
dental sponge, or
pad. You need to get your dog used to the consistency of these items, especially the bristles on a brush. So, let your dog lick something tasty off of the brush or pad so he gets used to the texture.
Once your dog is used to the cleaning item you are going to use, You can add the
toothpaste (or
rinse). Pet toothpastes either have a poultry, malt, or other flavor so your dog will like the taste. Get your dog used to the flavor and consistency of the toothpaste. Let your dog lick some off your finger and then apply some to your pet's gumline with your finger. Praise your pet.
Now your dog is used to the toothbrush and toothpaste and you are ready to start brushing. Talk to your dog in a happy voice during the process and praise your dog at the end. At first, you may just want to brush one or both upper canine teeth (the large ones in the front of the mouth). These are the easiest teeth for you to get at and will give you some easier practice. As before, when your dog accepts having several teeth brushed, slowly increase the number of teeth you are brushing. Again, by making it appear to be a game, you both will have fun doing it.
See our article,
Brushing Your Cat's Teeth, for 5 easy steps to brushing their teeth.
Various toothpastes, brushes, pads, and other mouth care products are available. The choice is up to you and your dog for what works best.
Supplying your dog with specially designed dental toys and treats can help in reducing any future oral disease or bacteria, not to mention bad breath!
Start here:
Vaccinate your pet at Home and SAVE!
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Event Overview
The history-making headlines said it all: "The Supreme Court Votes in Health Reform 5-4." With that, healthcare coverage under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) is accelerating at a rapid pace.
HIMSS has developed a three part series exploring how the healthcare reform bill will transform mandates into real world patient care. Each session builds on the content from past sessions, so be sure to register for all three!
Sign up today.
Part 1: Wednesday, October 3, 2012
|The Impact of the Affordable Care Act on Health IT: An Update
|Abstract: With no adverse impact related to healthcare information technology, and strong support from both sides of the political aisle, this session will provide an update on the ACA's many components designed to optimize health IT benefits.
Part 2: Wednesday, April 3, 2013
|Quality Measures Development: An Update
|Abstract: The Affordable Care Act mandates that new quality programs be implemented and existing ones be improved with the help of health IT. Join us as we explore how the CMS "Innovation Center" and "National Pilot Program on Payment Bundling" initiatives are providing best practices as we move forward.
Part 3: Wednesday, May 15, 2013
|Consumer Access to Data and the State Insurance Exchanges: An Update
|Abstract: The ACA recognizes that health IT is crucial towards developing Health Insurance Marketplaces and supporting consumer access to information regarding health insurance. HIMs will provide individuals and small businesses with a "one-stop shop" to find and compare affordable, quality health insurance options. This session will explore the various aspects of the Act that will improve patient safety, reduce medical errors, and provide tools for consumers to help understand the many choices available today.
Learning Objectives:
|Gaining ROI By Implementing Federal Operating Rules
|Abstract: The operating rules for eligibility, claim status, electronic funds transfer and electronic remittance advice have been implemented and are now part of a federal mandate. Other operating rules, from claims to enrollment, are soon to come. Yet the real driver of these transactions and operating rules should be ROI. The session will explore each of the transactions and operating rules with a view towards ROI as a key driver for implementation.
Learning Objectives:
Available On Demand
To access this event, please click Login and follow the instructions
Download your CPHIMS Tracking Form for the series


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Using Cuttlebug Dies And Embossing Folders With Sizzix
What do you think about this video?
Upenngrad1: I need some help! I used the CUTTLEBUG FOLDER - the Paisley one and I
noticed that the entire surface WAS NOT evenly embossed. Some areas were
MORE RAISED than other areas. Can you offer a solution to this? Thanks!
Karen Y: I also have a original sizzix machine. Plus I have several brass templates. Could I use those to emboss with my sizzix? PLEASE let me know, (email: firstname.lastname@example.com) Thank You
CropStop: If you mean the Cricut then no as that is electronic not hands on. Please let me know if I can help further
sweetestabou: awesome video! thank you for this video. it really did open me up to the world of cuttlebug dies and embossing folder. I am cutting up michael's craft store coupons as I watch. any suggestions where i can buy cheap embossing folders online?
kaishwn: can you use the cricket on your sizzix machine
NurseGreeneyesRN: Oh my goodness, THANK U so much for making this video. You saved me money on buying a cuttle bug machine. I have the sizzix and never knew I can use other dye set from Cuttlebug.....thank u, thank u!!! Please post more of your creative ideas!
Mrs Cartoon: Thank you so much for this presentation! Very, very helpful!
Virginia Gomes: Very nice presentation. I had no idea that I could use my sizzix machine with the cuttlebugs embossing folders, but this is great. Thanks for sharing.
BeckyDJD: thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!
Using Cuttlebug Dies and Embossing Folders with Sizzix 4.6 out of 5


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Simply Southern Living Room
"No fuss" was designer Lynn Morgan's mantra when she decorated the living room of this Savannah, Georgia, rowhouse. "I wanted it simple, clean-lined, and inviting, with a little bit of glamour and a lot of comfort." An ottoman in Zig Zag by Alan Campbell lends modern oomph between a pair of Louis XVstyle bergères. To highlight the architectural details, she painted moldings in high-gloss white. A David Hockney lithograph hangs above an antique mercury glass mirror. Garden stools from Emissary.


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Tag Archives: Near
Inpaint reconstructs the selected image area from the pixel near the area boundary. Get it for free on GOTD!
Inpaint reconstructs the selected image area from the pixel near the area boundary. Inpaint may be used unwanted objects from your photos. Delete any unwanted object from your photo, such as extra power-line, people, and text. Giveaway of the Day
You Don't Want to Cut Down an American Flag Near This City Hall Building in California
The flag was discovered undamaged and left on the ground.
Liberty Counsel Challenges Law Restricting Pro-Life Speech Near Abortion Clinic
Today, Liberty Counsel filed its opening brief at the federal court of appeals in Atlanta seeking to block enforcement of a law aimed at silencing pro-life, sidewalk counselors. For years, Susan Pine and Marilyn Blackburn have faithfully offered help to women facing crisis pregnancies outside the Presidential Women's Center ("PWC"), an aborti…
Mississippi: Join House Speaker Philip Gunn at a Town Hall Event Near You and Thank Him for His Role in HB 2 Becoming Law
Between October 7-10, Mississippi House Speaker Philip Gunn will be conducting a listening tour across the state, seeking input on a wide range of issues from concerned citizens, including Mississippi gun owners and sportsmen
NRA-ILA News
Wave of Bombings in Iraq Leave 36 Dead; Car Bomb Near Damascus Kills Another 18
BAGHDAD (AP) — A wave of bombings, mainly targeting markets in and near Baghdad, killed 36 people on Tuesday, officials said, the latest in a surge of violence that has gripped Iraq.
Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, meanwhile, vowed to defeat "terrorists" behind the relentless attacks and chase them out of the battered country.
Archaeologists Finally Open Coffin Found Near Richard III's Burial Site — and Are Surprised at What They Find
LONDON (AP) — A team of archaeologists said Monday it has unearthed an unusual coffin-within-a-coffin in the central England parking lot where it found the skeleton of King Richard III, and that they hope to identify the remains within.
University of Leicester scientists have been digging at the Grey Friars site in Leicester after finding the body of Richard there in September. He died nearby in 1485 at the Battle of Bosworth Field.
Refresh your desktop with a new amazing view of a mountain near a calm lake.
Refresh your desktop with a new amazing view of a mountain near a calm lake. This bright nature scene will fill you with a spirit of serenity.
'You Got Something to F—in' Say to Me?': Man Caught on Video Attacking Christian Street Preacher Near Gay Pride Event Reportedly Arrested 29 Times
A man caught on video repeatedly punching a Christian street preacher near a Seattle gay pride event had previously been arrested 29 times, according to KOMO-TV:
Jason Queree, the man suspected of punching the protester multiple times, has been arrested 29 times since 1995. He has been convicted or otherwise found against for nine felonies, including forgery, stolen property, unlawful firearm possession and theft, and 12 misdemeanors, including driving with a suspended license, vehicle prowl, domestic violence, assault, DUI and criminal trespass.
See the Massive Tornado That Is on the Ground Right Now Near Oklahoma City
The day after several tornadoes ripped through the midwestern states, a massive tornado was blowing through Oklahoma near Oklahoma City Monday afternoon.
KOTV called it a "huge tornado" with a "violent rotation." A storm tracker speculated the twister was either an F4 or F5.
A storm tracker also said "there's houses in the air here" and noted "a ton of debris." They reporters described houses, trees and more in the tornado as the "debris ball."
'Oh No She Didn't!': Mom Wrestles Alligator Near Middle School Instead of Waiting for Animal Control
A 7-foot alligator was encroaching on a middle school's property just as school was letting out for the day. Local police officers came onto the scene, but instead of waiting for a professional trapper, one of the officers — a Florida mom — took care of business herself.


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PESTEL five forces and SWOT analysis of Apple
"Steven Wozniak and Steven Jobs had been friends in high school. They had both been interested in electronics, and both had been perceived as outsiders. They kept in touch after graduation, and both ended up dropping out of school and getting jobs working for companies in Silicon Valley. (Woz for Hewlett-Packard, Jobs for Atari)Wozniak had been dabbling in computer-design for some time when, in 1976, he designed what would become the Apple I. Jobs, who had an eye for the future, insisted that he and Wozniak try to sell the machine, and on April 1, 1976, Apple Computer was born.
Hobbyists did not take the Apple I very seriously, and Apple did not begin to take off until 1977, when the Apple II debuted at a local computer trade show. The first personal computer to come in a plastic case and include color graphics, the Apple II was an impressive machine. Orders for Apple machines were multiplied by several times after its introduction. And with the introduction in early '78 of the Apple Disk II, the most inexpensive, easy to use floppy drive ever (at the time), Apple sales further increased.
With the increase in sales, however, came an increase in company size, and by 1980, when the Apple III was released, Apple had several thousand employees, and was beginning to sell computers abroad. Apple had taken on a number of more experienced mid-level managers and, more importantly, several new investors, who opted to take seats on the board of directors. Older, more conservative men, the new directors made sure that Apple became a "real company," much to the dismay of many of its original employees.
In October 2003, Apple released iTunes for Windows. While the iPod had been available for Windows for some time, it had used third-party software which failed to provide the unique user experience that iTunes/iPod integration allowed. With the release of a stable, user-friendly Windows version of iTunes, which included both iPod and Music Store integration, Apple was poised to take the digital music industry by storm. Apple cemented its position with the January 2004 release of the iPod mini, which while smaller in capacity than the original iPod, was smaller than many cell phones. In the first year alone, the iTunes Music Store sold more than 70 million songs, and by July this number had increased to more than 100 million. The iTunes Music Store had a 70% market share among all legal online music download services. IPods had moved from expensive toys to must-have Christmas presents, and Apple found itself in the position of having a monopoly for the first time in several decades."
Vision Statement:
"Apple is committed to provide best computing experience to its consumers including students, professionals, educators and industrial customers all over the world through its hardware, software and internet offerings"
Apple's Mission Statement:
Apple Computer is committed to protecting the environment, health, and safety of our employees, customers and the global communities where we work and live. We recognize that by integrating sound environmental, health, and safety management practices into all aspects of our business, we can offer technologically innovative products and services while conserving and enhancing resources for future generations. Apple strives for continual improvement in our environmental, health and safety management systems and in the environmental quality of our products, processes and services.
Environmental Analysis:
PEST Analysis:-
With the help of PEST analysis, it is possible to gain an understanding of Apple's business potential, future market situation and the direction of its operation. The political, economic, social and technological factors are four components of PEST analysis. Considering the PEST analysis is powerful and covering lots of factors in identifying SWOT factors, the SWOT analysis will be simplified in the next part to show a graph picture of the list of factors involved in both of the above analysis.
Political Factors:
Currently, Apple's business operations are executed all over the world. According to financial report of 2009, more than half sale of Apple products is coming from different countries other than America. There are several issues which are beyond the control of company i.e. War against terrorism, geopolitical uncertainties, public health issues and sanctions on different countries. Such issues effect on sales of Apple Product worldwide. Apple has outsourced its business operations to different companies to reduce operating cost. These functions include product manufacturing, transportation and logistics management. Such companies spread in different parts of world like Cork, Ireland, Korea, China and Czech Republic. Any delay could be occurred due to political instability and other events which may damage the Apple image in its customers and retailers.
Economic Factors
The world's economic conditions are getting better after recession. In past few years, oil prices went to record high level which causes inflation in world's economy. Due to such economic factors, consumer's purchasing power reduced and they don't want to spend money on such products like unwilling to busy iPod, iphone and updating personal computer or laptop. Last year high unemployment rate was observed in USA and Europe which causes sharp fall in Apple products. Furthermore, currency exchange rate is seen very volatile during recession, especially dollar's rate against pound sterling and euro. Although world's economy is overcoming recession but it is expected that US economy will take longer time than other countries of the world. So US Dollar may goes down in this year.
Social Factors:
Environmental protection and Health & Safety are become major issues in those countries where Apple operates. A variety of regulations and laws are imposed in such countries which may unfavourably affect the company's financial condition and results by requiring a safe disposal or recycling Apple's products. Particularly, such regulations are adopted in European Union and some parts of Canada which are big markets of Apple Products. Certain products of the company are actually face health issues because of the design problem. It is reported that the improper use of iPod may lead to loss of hearing power of users.
Technology Factors:
The market for PC, portable music player, mobile phone and other consumer electronic products are in those natures of products which have heavy competition and fast technological changes. The companies which manufacture such type of products have to spend enough money on research and development because of rapid change in electronic products, short product life, frequent introduction of new products and the continual improvement in product performance and design. It is basic requirement to survive in the market. It is also a great advantage for Apple to its competitors that company has full control over the entire production procedures of personal computer and the continual innovation on iPod and iPhone. Now there are many products introduced in the market to compete Apple's products. So it becomes a necessary to spend more on R&D which causes a huge spending of its capital reserve compared with its competitors i.e. Dell uses Microsoft's operating system in all of its products while Apple installs its own brand operating system which increase its production cost.
Porter's Five Forces:-
Porter's five forces analysis is a framework for business strategy development put forth by Michael E. Porter of Harvard Business School in 1979. It uses concepts developed in Industrial Organization Economics (IOE) to derive five forces that determine the competitive intensity and therefore the attractiveness of a market. Porter's Five Forces include following factors:
Threats of substitutes
Apple's products are facing very high competition. Specially, computer and iPod player are moving fast in world market. Companies like IBM introduced ThinkPad with different series to cover different needs of consumers. For example, the R Series ThinkPad is for normal daily use of computer. T series is introduced for premier performance and X series is specified for business travellers because of its features like Thinnest and lightest model. The other competitor Dell also specified its product for different customer usage like solutions for Home, Small & Medium Business, Large Business, Public Sector and its Partners. So all above products are available in the market as a substitute of Apple's computer products and are also giving tough time to survive in the market for Apple.
However, Apple has maintained a better position in the market by presenting different operating system that is OSX Operating Systems, while others rely on Microsoft Windows Operating Systems. The OSX Operating Systems is created by Apple which means Apple can make a difference in software packages and overall functionality from the other companies. The unique feature of its product also helped Apple to obtain brand loyalty of customers and it allows Apple's product to stay in an innovative and price conscious among other products.In the world of portable music, Apple's iPod, which is based on hard-disk, is inevitably facing a massive competition. Huge verities of alternatives are available in today's market like Sony's mp3 and other flash memory featured devices. However, Apple's product has a better storage and design compared with the Sony's mp3. Other portable music device such as radio, CD player is not in comparable with iPod, because of its leading technology and stylish brand.
Threat of Existing Rivals:
The threat of existing rivals is very high for Apple in current market. Apple is operating in two big market segments like personal computers and portable music players. There are big names competing in the market like Dell, HP Compaq, Gateway and Toshiba. Every Rival is providing different products and services with different strategies which make difficult for Apple to gain maximum share of the market. Low price war makes harder for every company to continue its products at same rate for long time. Apple has occupied a better market position by improvement and investment on research and development.
Apple's iPods are facing good competition but now improvement and firm control on design and technology makes easy for Apple to stand on top in the market. Currently Apple iPod is capturing 60% market share and 25% market share for Sony Walkman. But Apple's rivals are continuously working on development of their products which is big threat for Apple.
Threat of New Entrants:
Now the present market of personal computers is well established and highly competitive such as Dell, HP Compaq, Lenovo, Sony and Toshiba is big players of the market. There are two major barriers for new entrants which are very difficult to remove. First, to enter in the market needs massive amount of capital which allows new company to be active in market and be a participant of price war and sustain the market pressure while promoting its products and produce economies of scale products. Secondly, every existing company have their own copyrights for patents and technologies which made new entries difficult to adopt. But in music player industry, there are high chances of new arrivals for example Google is planning to introduce new iplayer against iPod which have many new features and also Google commenced a huge survey before launching its new product. Some mobile phone companies also developing new products to compete iPod.
Bargaining Power of Customers:
In operating systems, Apple's OSX Operating System is the only substitute operating systems available for use if consumers deny using Microsoft operating system. So bargaining power of the customer is reduced in this case because he has very limited option but in recent market statistics, Microsoft is leading the world market by its products and Apple does not allow any other company to use Apple's operating system which makes limited use of its customers and that's why Apple is not as big as Microsoft.
All the products of Apple have been sold out in different mediums in entire world at same time with similar price. This marketing strategy gives high price of its products when new product is launched. For example, Apple had sold 270,000 units of the newly launched iPhone 3G in its first week. It was estimated that Apple will sell 5.1 million units in its fiscal fourth quarter, according to Mike Abramsky, of RBC Capital Markets. The popularity of Apple's products contains very low bargaining power of buyer due to its popularity especially iPod and iphone. Online stores and direct stores are helping so much in obtaining its goals. Although other alternatives are available in portable music player market but still Apple has very low bargaining power of consumers.
Bargaining Power of Suppliers:
Apple is providing very complex devices in the market and it is not manufacturing everything by own. Apple made many contracts with different suppliers like Hitachi Global Storage Technologies, Western Digital, and Seagate. Apple did not make a contract with single company just because of establishing high bargaining power to its suppliers which carried Apple into better positions of negotiation. This strategy helps Apple to avoid shortages and also low cost components. But in some cases, some key components are always difficult to maintain if manufactures decided to produce the common products instead of the customized one. The Intel® microprocessors are an example of how Apple is trying to keep this customized supply. Based on efficient communication with the vendor, Apple uses product introduction plans, strategic inventories, coordinated product introductions, internal and external manufacturing schedules and levels to ensure the availability of such components. It has been proved to be an efficient method for both sides. By customizing key components, Apple's products are more flexible in terms of size and weight which gives them a better position in the market place
The SWOT analysis:
Customer Loyalty
Product Diversification and Differentiation
Unique Mac OSX operating system
World market capacity
Poor Product Quality Control
High Price
Lack of market consideration when launching new product
Zero Dividends Policy
New stake in the mobile phone industry
Entry to the emerging economy
Strong competition in the technology market
Substitute products are widely available in the market
Value Chain Analysis:
A value chain analysis provides internal capabilities of a company which makes easy to understand that on what level a company sustains competition in existing market. The value chain framework is originally developed by Porter. Now we will identify resources which Apple utilizes and these are as follows:
Technology and Product Design
Sales and Marketing
Customer Service
Legal Services
Technology and Product Design:
This is the speciality of Apple to concentrate on developing new technology and innovative product designs. Its products represent remarkable designs and styles which attracts people from all over the world. Apple provides cutting edge technology since the company is established. Apple was first company which provides a platform for electronic spreadsheet which is VisiCalc on the Apple II Plus and also produces a "digital lifestyle" hub, the Macintosh product lines. Apple also working on development and improvement of technology and designs that why its operating systems is much reliable than Microsoft Windows and Mac computers provide some useful and handy software like iMovie, iPhoto, and iTunes are the most wide-ranging end user product. So Apple says "it's very easy to be different, but very difficult to be better."
As we know that Apple refused to give license its operating system to other companies, so apple's developed hard ware and bundle package of software turn out to be the foundation of Apple's production process. Apple reached unmatched performance through 64 bit architecture, integrated unique styling with the multi-colour translucent iMac cases, and redefined spontaneous operation with the iPod. Whereas each manufactured goods preface has not been a success, Apple deals component production as a natural expansion of the design process.
Sales and Marketing
We might purely call this section "Steve Jobs". Since his return in 1997 as CEO, he personally make publics many jobs for new product introductions, reconsiders matching marketing campaigns and strategies, and endorses new product development course of actions. In a exit from their chaotic history, Jobs "entered into patent cross-licensing and technology agreements with Microsoft." (Linzmayer, 290) After years of mediocre market share and cannibalization of a customer's loyalty base, expensive Personal Computers market was now in the reach of Apple which never been so easy. Apple started practice of full control over market premium.
Customer Service:
Apple has kept hold of considerable cash reserves at the time of unpredictable growth and supremacy of PCs globally by creating a virtual liking of their customer base with introduction of technically advanced products like iPods, Macs & iphones, and insistently practising hardware and software updates. Apple reduced time laps in manufacturing product stage to end user stage. All basic activities are integrated with each other effectively which increase output of manufacturing and assembling units to delivery to its consumers. Even Apple provided software to its customers that resolve all compatibility issues with Windows XP on its new Intel-based iMac system and then make available online free to iMac users. Always Apple focus on best customer services even gives better than its customers expected.
Legal Services
In an environment of continuous change and innovation, it is impossible that aim to produce improved and developed products and services, Apple will suffer patent and copyright breach claims. "The dispute over the Apple logo on its iTunes Music Store, for example, continues despite a previously reached settlement with Beatles' Apple Corps Ltd. in 1991. (Dow Jones Newswires) While such litigation as Microsoft's Windows infringement on Mac OS patents has been highly publicized, use of legal guidance to drive acquisition versus internal development strategies for such products as GarageBand and iMusic have proven highly valuable. (Linzmayer, 172-4, 250) Intellectual property is sacred to Apple. There was a recent attempt to uncover the identities of internal "sources who leaked confidential information about an unreleased product to online media outlets in 2004." (Wong)"
Critical Success Factors:
This critical success factors are those activities which are very hard to adopt by the competitors and rivals of a company. Every big and famous company has some special course of actions which allow company to grab handful market share to survive. So that Apple also has some critical factors which lead company towards success. The major success factor of Apple is its innovation of different products. In every year, company introduces different products with non identical features. Such sort of innovations and improvement retains its consumers and attract other to buy such magnificent products. The other critical success factor is its own operating system. Current Apple operating system is known as most reliable and durable system which has its own bundle packages and software. Different companies have approached to Apple to buy the licence of MAC OSX operating system but company has denied allowing other companies to use this system. The leadership of Steve is also considered a success factor for the company, as we know that after his arrival in company, Apple regain its early years positions and reputation in the market. Now in portable music devices market, Apple is a world leader among many other companies like Sony and Toshiba.
Apple Computer Inc.'s strategy to gain market share dominance by market penetration has achieved good results since last decade specially after introducing iPods. MAC users also do not compromise on quality and style of new MAC products. Windows compatibility software gave a high market rise when it was available online free for its users. The industry is unappealing for new entrants but it is not same for the existing companies, there is significant market growth to be oppressed. Market analysis of Apple pointed out that strategies which are implemented to infiltrate in the market, are strategically fit with the critical success factors of the industry. Even in 2009 results, The Company seems profitable in such hazardous market conditions but results were much better than 2008 when recession appears all over the world. Apple should invest its reserve to development and innovations to take full advantage of its competitiveness in this industry. Apple's growth strategy is to increase its market share and also sustain its current market position is working very well and Apple makes easy to access of its all products through online stores and different distribution channels. Luckily the leadership of Steve suited and its strategy has provided the company with a strategic fit with its major strength which is the company's innovation. Introduction of new MAC book and iPods in the market proves higher results and increased Apple's reputation in market which proves company's strength matches with its strategy.
Strategy against possible threat:
We already discussed some possible threats which may occur and effect adversely on the market share of Apple. The current environment is volatile regarding innovation and new style products. All computing and audio products have very short life. We assume that Google iplayer or new product of Sony arrives in the market and made a record sale which causes a sharp fall in market share of Apple. We also assume that Google iplayer have new features and state of the art technology with innovative design of the gadget. Even in this scenario, a huge population turned towards Google iplayer which previously use iPod. To deal with such circumstances, Apple will take following steps through different models to identify exact and rational strategy.
Bowman Strategy Clock:
This clock is used to identify and analyze accurate strategy with all relevant information that helps to keep present in competitive market. Bowman strategy clock gives well balanced indications how to enter or compete in new or existing market. Currently, Apple is adopted "Diversification with a price premium" strategy which lies on strategy number 4 in Bowman Strategy Clock. There are eight different strategies on Bowman Strategy Clock which can be adopted according to market conditions and market share available. These are the following strategies of Bowman Clock.
Low price/low added value (No frills) - Likely to be segment specific
Low price - Risk of price war and low margins/need to be a 'cost leader'
Hybrid - Low cost bases and reinvestment in low price and differentiation
Differentiation-Without a price premium, Perceived added value by user, yielding, market share benefits-With a price premium -Perceived added value sufficient to bear price premium
Focused differentiation - Perceived added value to a 'particular segment' warranting a premium price
Increased price/standard - Higher margins if competitors do not value follow/risk of losing market share
Increased price/low values - Only feasible in a monopoly situation
Low value/standard price - Loss of market share
Ansoff's Matrix:
This model is developed to indicate different market scenarios which help to identify proper solutions to react in the market. Basically the main purpose of this Matrix is to point out market situation and management selects a strategy which is matching with situation and the objectives of the company. At present, Apple is operating in "Market Penetration" but after arrival of Google's iplayer, it goes into Product development. Here are four sections of this model which are used in dependence of situation.
1. Market Penetration:
2. Product Development:
3. Market Development:
4. Diversification:
It is recommended that Apple must refocus on its strength which can only be achieved by consistent spending on product differentiation. We assume that new product is introduced in the current market which reduced Apple market share. We identify current strategy through Bowman Strategic Clock but to deal with such situation, Apple must alter its old strategy to new strategy which I suggest, would be Differentiation without price premium. This strategy will help to regain market share and also product development will force to starch market share of Apple. Furthermore, immediate attention must be given to the high costs in manufacturing which may help to reduce price when necessary. Apple is also unable to fight in price war due to providing high quality of products and services. To compete in price war, Apple should establish a niche market that makes possible to fight and also reduce operating and manufacturing cost. It can also be achieved through strategic alliances or mergers to make possible economies of scale, improvement in its distribution channels, increase quality and increase market share in the future.
An implementation of the strategies mentioned above in recent times, Apple can be expect to secure its position as the market leader Personal computing and also portable music device market all over the world.
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