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Information about products for xc skiers
For news about resorts go to or click Resort News. New items are signified by an asterisk next to the headline below.
Gift Ideas and Online Products at High Peaks Cyclery
Preview of Next Year's XC Ski Products *
Nordic Ski Products Designed for Women *
Wearable Computers - Has the Time Come? *
Nordic Ski Equipment Sales Report in 2012-2014 *
Atomic Offers Tested Technology for 3 Waxless Ski Bases
THORLO Socks Made of Recycled Materials
New Concept Shop at Jackson Ski Touring
Nordic Walking for Total Fitness - Book with the Details
Books for Sale (incl. new Staying Alive in Avalanche Terrain)
DVD "The Joy of Telemark Skiing"
The SIA Snow Show will open in Denver for retailers and industry insiders at the end of January and the Preview magazine has been delivered with a snapshot of what is coming next year. The Snow Sports Market Intelligence Report showed cross country skiing equipment sales are up 15% in dollars led by the women's sector, which is up 28%. See article about XC products designed for women.
This increase follows a 6% uptick in sales last year, which followed a substantial decline in 2011-12. One brand manager said there is a healthy cross over participation from other endurance sports but a close look at categories that are selling may tell a different story. For example, a trend suggests that off track and backcountry skiing is resurging and leading renewed sales growth. Also, the use of carbon materials is saving weight in products encouraging some performance-oriented enthusiasts to upgrade their equipment.
Fischer is premiering a super-lightweight backcountry ski with an integrated "Easy Skin" system that attaches through a hole in the forefront of the ski. Madshus will introduce the Terrasonic IntelligGrip Classic waxless ski with a price point suited to novice skiers. The IntelliGrip skin is a mohair/nylon blend material used on the waxless base of the ski, which will also offered as an accessory that can be fitted on waxable skis.
Madshus also has an updated version of its women's Metis boot in skate and classic with a single-piece RevoWrap upper that conforms more precisely to the foot. Alpina Sports T30 R Boot is made with an antimicrobial replaceable foot bed that has a large size stamp on the heel for equipment rental operators. Alpina's CER ski is color-coded by size for easy rental use, too.
Rossignol has refreshed its touring equipment with brighter colors and its wider Nordic backcountry ski offers a more progressive tip rocker. There's new construction, camber profiles and sidecuts on the Rossignol EVO Tour and Action skis for easier maneuverability and Rossignol has incorporated a more forgiving fit in its touring boots.
Whitewoods brand has the Outlander ski and binding, which is a hybrid ski/snowshoe for traction with some glide. It claims easy turning, a waxless base for climbing and a short length (130/145 cm). The binding does not require a ski boot, working instead with an adjustable ratchet over the toe and ankle of other outdoor boots. Photos: Top:Whitewoods boot/binding and Whitewoods Outlander Skis.
Stay tuned cause there's a full article about recreational XC ski products coming to the Product News Page soon.
Using the simple premise that women's products need to be different from men's, some cross country (XC) ski companies went to work designing lines of women's skis and boots that incorporate various differences between the male and female physical characteristics and their interests. For example, women generally have narrower feet, so companies have built boots to accommodate this difference. A woman's whole center of gravity may be shifted compared to a man, which means that application of force from the legs to the skis is shifted, so different flexes in a ski are appropriate.
Some product differences are cosmetic (feminine colors) but they can also address fundamental interests such as stability or downhill control. Moreover, they are not just for the touring lines—companies recognize the need for women's products in each equipment category, from touring to backcountry to performance and racing.
Jan Guenther owner of Gear West, a retail dealer in the Minneapolis area commented that women are often shorter and lighter than men so they might be matched to a ski with a shorter length or softer flex that corresponds to their ability and skiing goals.
Alpina Sports designed a line of women's XC ski boots after analyzing 2,500 women's feet using a patented Optical Measurement System and 3D Scanner to arrive at the "ideal" proportions. The fit of the Alpina's women's boots is dramatically different than the typical men's - women are often sold differently lasted and smaller sized boots. The flex patterns are totally altered, the heel pockets are much narrower, and the cuffs are redesigned for the slightly different calf/ankle configuration of a woman.
Leading brand Fischer is making a big splash with its women's XC line of skis and boots referred to as the My Style collection. The skis have a stable platform and excellent grip and the package includes color-coordinated skis, boots, poles, and a ski bag. The skis with names such as Inspire, Mystique, Desire, and Passion include a Fashion product line and the Sport line option.
These skis are configured lower than their unisex counterpart to account for lighter body weights and designed for the classic technique with less effort required. The ski camber is adjusted to a lower height (from the floor or snow) so it will accommodate the skier who can use less energy to get the ski base waxless grip pattern on to the snow. And there's a new specially developed, very light binding for fitness-oriented women that is very user-friendly with an automatic step in/out mechanism.
Fischer has 14 models of women's boots ranging for high performance skate and classic to recreational and off track backcountry. Behind the fashionable designs lie numerous specific developments for enhanced female performance on the trails. Additionally the individual models are tuned to the varied individual skills and sporting ambitions of the respective skier.
Salomon Nordic has women-specific boot models in classic, skate, and combi (can be used for either skate or classic skiing). These boots include lightweight carbon chassis, heel adjustments and dialed-in flex for women.
Mariah Frye-Colie of Cross Country Ski Headquarters, a Michigan cross country ski retail and area operation commented, "Women like to feel good with product options that flatter a women's body, but also are functional and comfortable. The Nordic ski manufacturers have woken up to the demand and it's great to have more feminine equipment and clothing." Photos: Fischer My Style XC Comfort Pro My Style Boot and Fischer Spirit Crown My Style Ski. For women's XC ski and snowshoe event listings click the Women's Page.
Roller skiing, the non-snow equivalent of cross country skiing, was developed as early as the 1930s and it was used as a way to train for cross country ski racing as early as the 1950s. Today roller skiing is a low-impact high-intensity workout that is a full body exercise and easy on the knees.
Roller ski gear uses short skis on wheels with mounted bindings that enable a cross country ski boot to connect. Factors in selecting roller skis include durability, smoothness of the ride, matching skier ability, the road condition and the type of training that is desired. There are different products for classic and skate roller skiing and prices for skis range from $99 - $500.
Roller skis are much improved compared to the old products. Cami Thompson Graves, head women's Nordic Ski Team at Dartmouth College stated that "roller skis closely simulate cross country skiing, especially skate skiing."
Retailer Jamie Hess of Nordic Skater in Norwich, VT commented that "after the recent winter Olympics, there's worldwide recreational enthusiasm for roller skiing." He also said that the fastest growing region for product sales is the American Sunbelt. There are more than 50 roller ski models for different uses available for every budget and ability level. Roller ski enthusiasts are mostly cross country skiers who want to continue training after the snow melts.
Classic roller skis usually use wider small diameter wheels while skate ski wheels would have narrow large diameters. The difference involves speed, wear ability, handling rough road conditions (cracks or debris), and getting a similar feel to skiing. Roller ski construction involves weight, flex, and durability and are available in aluminum, wood, or composite materials.
Softer and wider wheels provide a smoother and slower ride. Hard wheels will be faster but can vibrate excessively on rough pavement. Ski poles have rubberized tips that resist slipping when planted on pavement rather than the metal tips used to dig into snow. Accessories are available for speed reducers and brakes to control speed on steep downhills, but not all models are compatible for adding them.
According to Coach Thompson Graves, "for safety on the pavement, it is important to wear helmets and high visibility clothing and be aware of the road conditions particularly at the bottom of hills."
Learning to roller ski can be a challenge even for advanced skiers and it is reported to be more difficult than inline skating. First timers should expect it to take some to get comfortable on roller skis but once you get the feel, you'll emulate sliding on the snow while you wait for the flakes to fly once again.
Recently, there was news in the business world that the projected sales of wearable computers would reach 585 million units and billions of dollars within a few years. These computers include various sensors or displays worn on or placed in the body that perform activity tracking. You've probably seen wristbands and smartwatches. Is it over-hype or will sales skyrocket similar to the IPhone or GoPro camera? Will consumer attitudes and adoption rates drive and accelerate this market segment?
Wearable technology information was featured in an InsideOutdoor Magazine article including survey feedback, the current situation, and the future of wearable computers. The early applications of wearable technology serve active and fitness-minded consumers. Wrist-worn devices can monitor and communicate information about motion, sleep, location, heart rate, and other body functions or health metrics such as steps taken, calories burned, etc. Concepts such as "fitness optimization" and the "quantified self" are currently chic and in 2013 there were nearly 5 million activity tracker units sold. Venture capital for biosensing wearables multiplied ten times between 2011 ($20 million) and 2013 ($229 million). It was cited that 10 million activity trackers were to be shipped in 2014 along with 7 million smart watches.
Companies that are already in store display cases include Nike, Fuelband, and FitBitForce…but in short time watch for a wearable tech tsunami led by Apple, Samsung, Google, and others with their smart watches, glasses, and so on.
The surveys show that 10% of Americans are strong candidates for early adoption of this technology. There are statistics showing those who are interested desire geo-tracking, fitness cues, goals, rewards, and the ability to share or compete with a group.
Among American adults, 46% are at least a little interested, while 53% are not at all interested in wearables. Many people can not envision any benefit of wearables or view it as just another fad. Many people are currently uninformed about wearables and don't understand the need for such technology. About 17% will consider wearables when the price drops and the "bugs" have been worked out and 19% say they will never buy a wearable device. Interest is strongest among younger consumers but most want the technology to meet their needs better or replace technology they already use. Research about smart watches regarding gender showed men who are generally more gizmo-friendly (52%) are more likely than women 40% to be a little interested.
Factors for adoption and utilization for any products include quality, fit, utility, aesthetics, out-of-the box ease, etc. Outdoor recreation has already applied wearable tech to things such as insulation, moisture management and anti-odor, insect deterrent, and sunscreen. But we'll see touch-button materials to operate portable devices, solar panel materials to charge devices, monitors for concussions, and the delivery of various analytics for performance optimization (ski turns, paddle stroke, golf swing, etc.).
Applications with apparel, for health and training needs, and protective sports gear are only the beginning. Frankly, the options for wearable technology extend beyond activity trackers and biosensors and currently the use of wearable technology is just beyond our imagination.
The 2013-14 snowsports sales data from SIA RetailTrak is in for last season showing $3.6 billion in snowsports product sales, which is up 4% in units and 7% in dollars.
Inventories are cleaner so things are looking good for 2014-15 in the business. There were record sales for apparel and accessories related to the cold weather. Equipment sales were the highest since 2010-11, which was one of the snowiest years across most of North America in memory. Internet sales continue to surge rising from $808 million last year to $867 million this year (7% increase). This good news looks even better when considering the draught in California, which negatively impacted snowboarding statistics and other snowsports meccas such as the Tahoe region and Mammoth Mountain.
Nordic ski equipment sales were up 15% in units and 14% in dollars to $41 million. The women's Nordic equipment category boomed to $6 million, which was a 32% increase in units and a 28% increase in dollars. Again, weather giveth and taketh: for example in the east there was a rainout in the second half of the holiday week and a frigid temperatures with rain in January. The later winter snow was better in the east and central states and that bodes well for the following pre-season.
Previous Year Report
The SIA RetailTRAK numbers for the 2012/2013 season were recently reported and they are based on total market projections based on data collected from the point of sale systems at more than 1,200 snow sports retailers. This season, snow sports retail sales reached $3.4B, up compared to sales last season.
For Nordic skiing, the early season statistics were worrisome despite the improved snow conditions and timely snowstorms starting in late December. There was pent up demand and popular wellness perspectives, which when combined with a more consistent snow cover brought good late season increases in participation and sales. First, the positive news has Nordic sales in specialty shops up from last year in dollars and in units sold. Nordic equipment specialty shop sales in the west were substantially up and New England specialty shops also saw an increase in sales. Nordic equipment specialty shop sales in the Midwest were not as strong compared to last year. It must be remembered that the report shows statistics compared to last year and that was a year with a terrible winter considering the lack of snow and warm temperatures.
Many of the Nordic ski areas reaped the benefits from snowstorms during the December holidays, MLK weekend, and President's week. These holiday periods can represent as much as 40% of the annual visitation statistics at a cross country ski area. Jackson Ski Touring Foundation's Thom Perkins commented that "while the December vacation may be significant for visitation, it is much more relevant as a kickoff to establish the mindset to go skiing during the winter." There have been some very exciting reports from cross country ski areas this winter about incredible increases in visitation and equipment sales. And a glimmer for the industry reported by Perkins was that the Nordic retail shop at Jackson had a record year and the ski area visitation boasted the best year in the last decade.
In reviewing Nordic equipment sales statistics August through January across the board (all retail outlets, not just specialty shops) between 2009 and 2013 in the same time frame (Aug-Jan) in general, the sales for this winter were 50% under sales during the great winter of 2010-11 and 5% below last year, which was a terrible winter. The retail report showed that from August through January there were 243,290 units of Nordic ski equipment sold (skis, boots, bindings, and poles) valued at $24,272,153. The final season statistics show a brighter winter for Nordic skiing.
Many retailer inventories were cleaned out between the mid season and late season because February included the longest winter holiday period (President's week and multiple school vacation weeks) and there were better snow conditions across the country. There were also consistent snowstorms in the early spring. While great snow always bolsters the Nordic ski industry, questions remain how the industry can parlay the opportunities such as the widespread wellness perspective or pent up demand from poor previous winters. Additionally, there are American medal expectations in the upcoming 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics, which can result in substantial dividends to the Nordic ski industry if it can get prepared to take advantage. The statisticians tell us that traditionally a good pre-season follows a good snow year, so we should expect optimistic consumers, who are more willing to spend on equipment in the coming fall and the first half of the 2013-14 ski season.
XCSkiResorts.com expresses appreciation to SIA Director of Research Kelly Davis for sharing information from SIA RetailTRAK, which is presented by Snowsports Industries America and Leisure Trends.
I've often wondered why there isn't more hoopla about cross country skiwear. I'm not talking about the suction suits worn by the cross country ski racers; I'm referring to the recreational garb, which is versatile, functional, and fashionable. Currently, I cross country ski wearing items from Craft, Sporthill, and Bjorn Dahlie, but what is important is that the products that I select to ski in fit a number of personal parameters.
The Craft AXC Touring Pants that I wear have zippers along the entire length of the legs and at the ankle there is an elastic area closed with a zipper and a snap. I feel that this pant ankle set up is the most significant aspect of the pants because it tightly fits around the boot and keeps snow out of the shoe top to avoid getting wet socks while skiing. And if you've ever lost a set of keys, the zippered side pockets are comforting to lock away your valuables. The comfortable lined material of the Craft pants is also enough to stay warm with or without a base layer underneath. The Bjorn pants that I use are lighter but have similar accoutrements.
The Sporthill Symmetry II Jacket has everything I want in a jacket except pit zips to provide an extra way to cool off and transport perspiration away. The jacket's mesh liner and material are comfortable when you have to zip up the collar on a very cold day. I've used the packable hood on the jacket quite a few times when it got suddenly cold out on the trail and it was a valuable asset. The high-hip fit keeps you warm and the zipper side pockets can be closed to avoid losing pocketed items. The jacket arms have extended fleece cuffs, which are a nice touch to keep snow out of your glove. The inside chest pocket has a zipper and a hole for an IPod and earbuds for the times that I want musical accompaniment on solo trail outings.
Socks, gloves, shirts, and base layers are an entirely another matter that will need to be covered in a separate article. Director of Research Kelly Davis at SIA (national trade association of snow sport product suppliers) says that there are three different demographic types, who purchase snow sports apparel as casual wear and her synopsis fits the cross country ski apparel market very well. The "urban woodsman" is a hip male style that touts outdoor authenticity. The "young urban male" is an athletic-influenced style, and women especially in the suburbs are buying snow sports styles for around town and even work.
Further, Davis cites that 80% of snow sports apparel spending comes out of women's wallets. They make decisions for the whole family, so it is important for manufacturers, product designers, and retailers to consider and focus on women's preferences. One of the challenges that confronts cross country skiing apparel availability is the fact that there is such a limited inventory of these products in retail outlets. There are too few sales in the stores, and retailers react by purchasing fewer items offering less selection in the following year. To break this cycle, we've got to go out and purchase more cross country skiing apparel!
When it is time to go skiing or snowboarding it only takes me a few minutes to get out the door. Of course, it takes some time to dress with base layer, selected socks, and top (ski shirt) and bottom (ski pants). I admit that it may be a bit obsessive to organize a "get away" bag of accessories; but the next step to get on the snow quickly entails reaching into my oversized bag that is in my living room to get the accessories needed.
For XC SKIING the bag includes the following:
3 pairs of xc ski gloves including light for spring-like warm days, regular winter days, and extra insulated for cold days;
Belt pack that has emergency (hand and toe warmers, matches, knife, repair tool, sun cream, scraper, compass, and some speed wax. Depending on how cold it is, I might add a neck gaiter to the pack and often a spare pair of light gloves to replace wet gloves;
There is also a water bottle in a net pouch on the belt pack and a very old wrapped granola bar in a zipped side pocket;
1 pair of sunglasses in a case;
3 headbands for warm, regular and colder days;
1 hat and 2 skull caps (new and old);
2 neckgaiters;
2 headlights (you need to have the extra one for your spouse or a friend to ski at night);
Additional hand and toe warmer packs and sun cream.
Obviously, skiers who use waxable skis have an assortment of waxing paraphernalia. I use only waxless skis and only occasionally hot wax my ski bases, so I keep my waxing items in a separate bag in the garage.
As a snowboarder, I keep some additional items for SNOWBOARDING in the accessories bag, which include the following:
2 pairs of gloves for regular and cold weather and a pair of extra glove liners;
3 pairs of goggles including an extra old pair with dark lenses and a pair with yellow lens for overcast days;
1 runaway strap (some ski areas still require it);
1 small accessory bag that includes an extra stomp pad, 5 different replacement binding straps, spare boot laces, 2 runaway straps, bag with various binding screws and washers; chunk of hard wax, tin of paste wax, and antifog lens cleaner in rub-on and spray versions.
The value of this preparedness bag is untold. Within the bag, the gloves are kept clipped together so it is easy to find a pair when needed. When getting ready for a ski trip near or far, the bag can be thrown in the car and that eliminates the need to worry about remembering any accessories. My daughter has followed my lead and created her own accessories bag. This winter when she was on college break, we were able to get out the door in less than 10 minutes from the time that we agreed to go snowboarding. And that includes checking the ski area website for conditions and the trail/lift report.
When going on nearby ski outings, I often will do a test ski on the short trails from my driveway to decide about the temperature and snow conditions. Afterward, I can easily dip into the bag to change any of the accessories that I need. Next is selecting the skis or snowboard, getting into the car, and away I go. Living so close to xc ski trails and alpine ski areas is indeed a blessing�but being organized makes it so easy to focus on what counts, which is getting outdoors and on to the snow.
Check out more info about the varity of gifts here on XCSkiResorts.com:
McCabe Outdoor Ilustration prints for cross country skiing, climbing, or landscapes.
Nordic Walking poles and instruction book
If you are interested in finding products online click High Peaks Cyclery.
Sean McCabe of Sean McCabe Studio was an award-winning art teacher, climber, and avid cross country skier, who lived in the Methow Valley in Mazama, WA. He combined his career in art with his outdoor interests to establish himself as a unique artist portraying these active sports with his colorful and sometimes whimsical style.
McCabe designs can be seen on The North Face, Patagonia, and Black Diamond clothing labels. His illustrations have been featured in American Alpine Journal, Climbing Magazine, the Alpinest, and Cross Country Skier Magazine.
McCabe's high quality prints are available on canvas or paper in various sizes framed or unframed ranging from 6 x 4 to 36 x 24 at different price points.
Click to view galleries of and order from SeanMcCabeStudio.com
Atomic Nordic ski equipment features touring skis with traditional length and compact length and one of the factors that sets Atomic apart is the excellent selection of waxless patterns on Atomic touring skis. These patterns provide the grip needed for uphill skiing while allowing a great glide on level and downhill terrain, too.
The waxless patterns on Atomic cross country skis have been tested for 10 years with different design variations and technical combinations to provide excellent grip with faster, smoother, and quieter glide. The Posigrip pattern, which is a positive base pattern, which at the end of the manufacturing process is inserted into the actual cavity in the ski kick zone was found to be superior to the most popular patterns currently used on Nordic skis.
The Posigrip has gripping teeth that are far apart in the pattern with a smooth surface area in between the teeth. Additionally, the waxless pattern just barely sits above the glide zone (aka a positive pattern) so as not to deter the glide. Other positive waxless patterns have gripping teeth that are closer together and they sit higher above the glide zone, which makes them genuinely slow because of the amount of drag on the snow. Atomic has produced the first high performance waxless ski base pattern based on testing the base variables. The Atomic ski models that are available with the Posigrip base include a range of in-and-out of-track options including the Vasa Classic, Team Classic, Mover 48, Mover 52, XCruise 53, Alea 53 and XCruise 59.
The Atomic Skintec waxless base, which uses inserted mohair strips on the ski base, is extremely effective for all temperatures and snow conditions. It is the high performance waxless base technology for the classic skier, who prefers to use a waxless ski. The Skintec strips are produced by a Swiss manufacturer of climbing skins and they do not ice up because they have a Teflon-like material that is resistant to freezing. Skintec is available on the Vasa Skintec, a specific ski model that has a flex that was created in conjunction with the Skintec material so that it rides above the snow in the glide phase, but is easy to kick down for excellent grip during the kick phase.
The G2 Syncro was introduced by Atomic four years ago and it provides excellent grip with a curled claw teeth design with the teeth close together in a very dense pattern. However, the G2 pattern provides a very fast glide because there are a series of small raised flat sections between each of the gripping teeth to prevent drag from developing with the dense pattern. The result is a base that provides secure Grip and fast Glide, thus named the G2. The G2 Syncro base is available on Atomic ski such as the Pro Classic G2, XCruise 55, Alea 55, Motion 52 G2, Motion G9 G2, and the Ski Tiger G2.
THOR-LO has revamped the majority of its snow collection featuring its new THOR-WICK- yarn made with 100% recycled material. THOR-LO socks use protective engineered padding to protect the shin area of the leg and the ball and heel of the foot, and THOR-WICK has excellent wicking properties to keep the foot dry.
The socks are available in a Thick Cushion or Thin Cushion Ski sock and there are different sock styles (including kids' socks) in different colors ranging from $18.99-$21.99 per pair.
THOR-WICK yarn is produced from 100% post-consumer recycled Polyethylene Terephtalate material commonly referred to at "PET" or "PETE" bottles. Using the recycled raw material in the manufacturing process reduces the amount of waste materials from going to the landfill (one metric ton of recycled material prevents 872 kg of bottle waste); produces 60% fewer CO2 emissions that would be created to use virgin polyester; and the process requires 65% less energy per unit of weight than that which would be used to make virgin staple (one metric ton requires 825 less barrels of oil).
According to the US EPA 2/3 less energy is required to manufacture products made out of recyclable plastic and studies show that production with recycled plastic emits 2/3 less sulphur dioxide, 50% less nitrous oxide, and uses almost 90% less water. The recycling process causes the yarn to cost more, but the company is committed to (and believes that consumers will) support the long-term environmental benefits.
For more info www.thorlo.com
Swix, a Norwegian manufacturer of ski wax, poles, and ski wear joined with ski company Fischer to create an educational retail environment with Gorham Bike and Ski Shop where skiers visiting Jackson Ski Touring Center in NH can experience for themselves the latest skiing innovations from skis to ski wax and tuning techniques.
Skiers can view and compare an extensive range of product lines to feel confident in their purchase decisions, share feedback with the manufacturers and maximize the performance of all their gear both new and what they already own. Almost the complete line of Fischer skis, boots, and poles will be showcased in the shop that attracts thousands of cross country ski aficionados all winter long.
The two companies will provide additional training to the Gorham Bike and Ski Shop staff and there are demo days for skis and roller skis, plus ski waxing and race tuning sessions. The retailer also features machine flex testing, which mean that each ski is individually evaluated and marked with its particular flex pattern to match to a heavier or more powerful skier to perform with a more subtle touch.
Jackson Ski Touring is a community based nonprofit corporation chartered to maintain cross country and snowshoe trails in and around Jackson village that has been in operation for 39 years. Situated in the White Mountains, it is a wonderful match of a quintessential New England with the white steeple church and wood covered bridge married to cross country skiing.
Nordic walking (or ski walking) is taking off and the Human Kinetics book entitled Nordic Walking for Total Fitness by Suzanne Nottingham and Alexandra Jurasin has got it covered. For those who are unfamiliar, Nordic walking is a fitness activity that combines walking with specially designed poles to engage the upper body muscles.
Trekking (hiking with poles) and Nordic walking are two different activities that use very different poles and techniques. It may sound silly, but perhaps "walking is not just walking." The pole angle, weight, grip, and straps are different between the aforementioned modes of walking. The Nordic walking pole is designed to allow your hands to relax in order to target the larger wrapping muscles of the back. But using poles of any kind automatically stimulates your spine and all of the muscles around it, even with inefficient technique. When walking, the key postural muscles of the core and upper body are engaged.
Nordic Walking for Total Fitness outlines the health and fitness benefits and the enhancement of body posture that result from the activity. Equipment including poles, shoes, apparel, pedometers, and heart rate monitors are covered.
There are photos for every segment of the book showing technique progressions, fitness exercises, power training, and variations for balance, agility, and flexibility. Common technique errors are also reviewed as well as uphill and downhill techniques, advanced cardio training, and drills for strength training and calorie burning.
The book also includes fitness assessments, sample workouts for varying levels of interests from first timer to cross training triathletes. There are also suggestions about customizing your program. Training program recommendations are offered for building distance, fluctuating daily intensity, and rest days. If this all sounds a bit like overkill, that's because it is, particularly if you are a recreational fitness enthusiast but you need read only as much of the book as you feel is relevant to your personal situation.
I've been a Nordic Walker for a few years and found many of the claimed attributes in the book regarding posture and exercise to be true. I've always been in search of a way to decrease the amount of time spent exercising, so I was sold when I heard that using the poles increases caloric burning by 40 percent. Being a cross country skier, it is easy to quickly master Nordic walking. After a summer of Nordic walking, I noticed a marked improvement in my cross country ski poling in terms of strength and timing. It seemed that I increased the amount of forward momentum that was attributable to poling and I was able to pole stronger and longer when skiing.
Nordic Walking for Total Fitness provides a foundation for anyone, ranging from those just looking for an activity to lose weight to health aficionados interested in taking it to higher levels of fitness.
Nordic Walking for Total Fitness is available for $19.95 plus shipping from Human Kinetics at www.humankinetics.com or call 217-351-5076.
New software has been created by a group of companies representing about 100 apparel brands to measure environmental impact of products from "cradle to grave" or more explicitly, from raw material to garbage dump.
According to an article in the Wall Street Journal, this so-called Eco Index will perform similar to the Energy Star rating of appliances. The Eco Index concept will be officially announced in August 2010 at the Outdoor Retailer Show in Salt Lake City. It will provide comparative perspectives of brands with relation to environmental and human rights issues. Another way of looking at it is as a sustainability barometer for operations or a litmus test for product greenness.
This project has been underway for three years and the coalition of brands involved include Nike, Levi Strauss, Target, Adidas, Timberland, Columbia, and Patagonia. Most consumers are not aware of factors involved with the apparel business such as the toxic chemicals used for leather tanning, crude oil used in the manufacture of synthetic fabrics, incredibly low wages and no benefits for foreign workers, and excessive shipping distances for manufacturing various aspects of apparel. In 2008, Americans discarded 12.4 million tons of textiles, up from 1.8 million tons in 1960.
The Eco Index software provides a self-reported score of points on various questions regarding raw material, production, shipping, and disposal. A brand can score points with for example, a wastewater purifying system, a recycling program, good labor standards, less bulky packaging, and even washing in cold instead of hot water. There are estimations involved in the scoring system and proof is not required, but this could be the infancy in the development of international standards.
The Eco Index is a beginning but we do not know how much of a motivational factor that it may become in the eyes of consumers. It is admirable that competitors have come together to work on this concept and most of the participating companies have previously undergone an internal analysis of these issues. Environmental issues are driving some product design these days such as printed info on garments instead of separate tags and using less or recycled packaging. And not surprisingly, many of the applicable design ideas save processing costs, too. If the Eco Index succeeds and companies vie for a higher score, we all will win.The Eco Index is a beginning but we do not know how much of a motivational factor that it may become in the eyes of consumers. It is admirable that competitors have come together to work on this concept and most of the participating companies have previously undergone an internal analysis of these issues. Environmental issues are driving some product design these days such as printed info on garments instead of separate tags and using less or recycled packaging. And not surprisingly, many of the applicable design ideas save processing costs, too. If the Eco Index succeeds and companies vie for a higher score, we all will win.
Reported in August 2012, a newly developed Higg Index is an internal learning tool for companies to highlight ways to reduce environmental impacts, increase efficiencies, and identify opportunities for innovation within their supply chains. Industry organizations realize the need and value of a consumer-facing rating for products and they feel that this is a long-term aspiration but they have not set a timetable for developing a consumer-facing label based on the Higg Index. The Higg Index may be downloaded from the Sustainable Apparel Coalition website, at apparelcoalition.org.
The Outdoor Industry Association Sustainability Working Group will continue to contribute to the evolution of the Higg Index for apparel. In addition, the committee is focusing work on four other key areas:
1. Index work - building indexes (using the Higg Index model) for footwear and equipment
2. Responsible chemicals management
3. Materials traceability in the supply chain, starting with a focus on goose down
4. Social responsibility and fair labor.
"Cross-Country Skiing" by J. Scott McGee with excellent photographs by Luca Diana is the newest edition on the topic and it is easy-to-understand with plenty of photos. It is among the Falcon Guides and Basic Illustrated series from Morris Book Publishing. McGee describes equipment selection, learning the basic techniques, planning and safety and 100 pages of everything about cross country skiing.
McGee is out of Jackson Hole, Wyoming and he knows his stuff even though he omitted XCSkiResorts.com from his list of websites. This book is $12.95 and can be purchased at www.falcon.com.
"Staying Alive in Avalanche Terrain" by Bruce Tremper is a new edition that is easy-to-understand and accessible for snowsport novices as well as technically insightful snow safety veterans. Approximately 150 people die in avalanches each year and thousands more are lucky enough to survive them without injuries.
This manual is ideal for backcountry xc skiers, snowshoers, snowmobilers and others and it is organized according to the structure of American Avalanche Association classes and it has been reviewed by peer experts.
Staying Alive covers different avalanche types, judging terrain's hazard level, routefinding and safe travel essentials. Rescue strategies and an analysis of human nature versus danger is also included. The 304-page paperbound book has 235 charts and illustrations and 60 photos, and it is available from The Mountaineers Books for $18.95.
"The Story of Modern Skiing" by John Fry is a book viewed by ski industy insiders as the definitive account of the revolution in ski equipment, technique, resorts, and competition that took place after World War II. It is 408 pages, has 86 photos and maps, a timeline, and an index of more than 1,000 names and places. Jean Claude Killy calls it a remarkable memoir and history of the sport.
The book manages to capture the essence of xc skiing in about 15 pages (though there are a few xc ski writers that could create a separate book on the topic of modern xc skiing), but the book would be a monument to anyone that is into skiing.
You can get it on Amazon but for a personally signed copy send a check of $29.95 ($29 for additional copies) to author John Fry, Editorial, 23 East Lake Drive, Katonah NY 10536. Include the name (s) of the person (s) whom you want the book dedicated to, plus address where you want the book (s) shipped to. Tell him you heard about it on XCSkiResorts.com.
Another resource book of xc ski and snowshoe trails by First Ascent Press is "Ski Trails of Southwest Montana." This 112-page book by Melynda Harrison has 30 xc ski and snowshoe trails around the Greater Yellowstone region of Big Sky, Bozeman, and the Paradise Valley. The book is $16.95 and can be ordered at http://www.firstascentpress.com/ski-trails-volume1.html
The book "Cross Country Skiing: Building Skills for Fun and Fitness" by Steve Hindman is available from The Mountaineers Books. Steve is a long-time Northwest PSIA certified instructor and former National Nordic Demo Team, who participated in the XCSkiResorts.com Top 10 Page panel of experts.
"Cross-Country Skiing: Building Skills for Fun and Fitness" provides techniques demonstrated in step-by-step photos, special learning activities to reinforce instruction, sidebars for trouble-shooting common problems and matching technique to terrain and snow conditions and tips for the whole family including 10 activities for teaching kids to xc ski with fun and games.
The book acknowledgement of contributors and photographers is a virtual who's who in the xc ski industry. It is 240 pages and it can be purchased for $19.95 at www.mountaineersbooks.org
Dick Hall and friends whip up a tasty batch of innovative teaching tips in the movie "The Joy of Telemark Skiing." It is the perfect blend of clear and precise instruction, great music, and inspirational skiing. To order 800-835-3404 or on the Web site www.telemarknato.com
Dick Hall is one of the forefathers of American telemark skiing and the founder of the North American Telemark Organization (NATO). This organization has been an educational resource for two decades and has helped 40,000 people master telemark and backcountry skiing. Hall created and conducted one of the world's largest and oldest telemark skiing parties at Mad River Glen in Vermont. The annual NATO Telemark Festival is usually scheduled for March.
Keep your eyes out for the NATO telemark camps, workshops and adventure tours on the XCSkiResorts.com Resort News Page and in the words of Dick Hall, "Ski Hard, Play Fair, and Have Fun."


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Yes. One of the big benefits of the Amplifi system is that it's about as easy to use as a normal garden hose; it's always ready with minimal set-up required. Remember to unplug the GFCI outlet after use and store inside the pot, as you would with other electrical components to prevent wear or damage.
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text:
David Nelson
Position: WR
Height: 6-5 Weight: 217 lbs.
Born: November 7, 1986 in Wichita Falls, TX
High School: S.H. Rider
College: Florida (school history) (Nelson college stats)
Weighted Career AV (100-95-...): 12 (6334th overall since 1950)
Other SR Links: College Football at Sports-Reference.com
Output includes all passing, rushing, and receiving plays.


text:
Symphonic Series
Expert performers from around the world, honored masterpieces, and exciting new works make the Symphonic Series unique, not-to-be-missed concert events.
Subscriptions are still available. First time symphonic series subscribers save up to 50% or ask about our Create Your Own Series options.
Please call (269) 349-7759 for subscription requests or questions.
Single tickets can be purchased at Miller Auditorium Box Office by calling (269) 387-2300 or clicking on the button below.
2014-2015 Symphonic Series
Invitation to the DanceSept 20, 2014, 8pm Miller A mosaic of works busting with exotic sounds and driving dance rhythms. |
Los Angeles Guitar QuartetOct 18, 2014 8 pm, Chenery Join us as the Grammy® Award-winning LAGQ brings their unparalleled energy to the KSO concert stage. |
A Hero's LifeNov 14, 2014, 8 pm Miller Beethoven's Symphony No. 8 is paired with Strauss's tone poem Ein Heldenleben in a program tied to the love interests of their respective composers. Starring our new Concert Master, Susie Park! |
Heavenly LifeFeb 21, 2015, 8 pm Miller Experience Heaven as portrayed by Mahler in his own Pastoral Symphony No.4 and Strauss' From Six Songs (Brentano Lieder), Op.68 with soprano Andriana Chuchman. |
Fire and WaterMarch 28, 2015, 8 pm Miller A performance sure to dazzle you...Fire and Water takes you from the thundering opening chorus of Tchaikovsky's fiery first piano concerto through the powerful presentation of the sea in Debussy's La Mer. |
ElijahApril 10, 2015, 8 pm Miller Second only to Handel's Messiah, this powerful work is a vidi depiction of scenes from the prophet's life. |


text:
October 3, 2011
The Leavenworth County Humane Society will take part in Lansing's Autumn in the Grove festival this weekend with a "Pets in the Grove" fundraising event.
The event will be 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday in Kelly Grove Park, 320 E. Gilman Road in Lansing.
"Pets in the Grove" will offer competitions for pets and children, including a pet-person look-alike contest, awards for the longest ears and fluffiest tail, and dog treat and gummy fish stacking contests for children 12 and younger.
The entry fee for each event is $5. Proceeds will benefit LCHS animal welfare programs.
For more information or to register, go to the LCHS website, LCHSInc.org, or the LCHS Facebook page.
More like this story
- Humane Society spay/neuter transport leaving from Tonganoxie in November
- Pets to be available for adoption in Basehor on Saturday
- Leavenworth County Humane Society looks back, ahead at annual meeting
- Humane Society's spay-neuter program coming to Easton in March
- Humane Society spay/neuter transport coming to Linwood
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Claire Redfield
this wiki
(Capcom's primary storyline)
| |||||||
Claire Redfield | |
Biographical information | |
Date of birth: | 1979 |
Race/Nationality: | Caucasian/American |
Occupation: | TerraSave member |
Status: | Alive |
Physical description | |
Gender: | Female |
Blood type: | O[1] |
Height: | 169 cm (5 ft 6.5 in)[1] |
Mass: | 52.4 kg (116 lb)[1] |
Gameplay | |
Appearances | |
First appearance: | Resident Evil 2 |
Last appearance: | Resident Evil: Revelations 2 |
Voice: | Alyson Court Yūko Kaida (Japanese voice in Deg) |
Portrayer: | Adrienne Frantz (RE2 ad) |
Mocap: | Lori Rom (Deg) |
Last edit: | 1 second ago. (Purge) |
"Look, you have two choices here: kill or be killed, your call!" |
Claire Redfield is a current member of the human rights organization, TerraSave. She is the younger sister of BSAA operative and former S.T.A.R.S. member Chris Redfield.
Claire is a survivor of the Raccoon City Incident, which took place in September 1998 after she traveled to the city in search of her brother. After escaping the city with the help of Leon S. Kennedy, Claire ventured to Europe to continue her search for Chris. In December, she was captured by Umbrella after infiltrating their Paris Laboratory, and transported to the Umbrella owned Rockfort Island and imprisoned. When Rockfort Island was attacked by a mysterious Special Forces group, Claire tried to escape with fellow prisoner; Steve Burnside, leading to both of their involvements in the Antarctic outbreak. Her brother soon learned of her situation and rescued her. In 2005, Claire confronted the t-Virus again when she arrived at Harvardville Airport to meet some friends. While surviving in the airport, she was reunited with Leon, now a U.S. Government agent, who had been sent to deal with the outbreak.
Early lifeEdit
Claire grew up with her older brother Chris. Eventually, Chris skipped college and joined the US Air Force, while Claire became a student at a university, and took an interest in motorcycles. Claire has been trained in military combat techniques by Chris, and has learned how to handle herself in hand-to-hand combat, as well as being able to wield a multitude of weapons including combat knives and firearms.
Raccoon City IncidentEdit
"I have to find my brother." |
Claire arrived to Raccoon City in search of her brother, but found something much worse. After she encounters Leon at the diner, Claire and Leon hatch a plan to get out of Raccoon City as soon as they can. After being separated by a zombified trucker, Claire and Leon headed towards the police station from opposite directions, where they hoped to rendezvous. Claire managed to get into the Raccoon City Police Department.
Claire explores the deserted police station and eventually finds Chris' Diary in the S.T.A.R.S. office, which she reads and finds out that Chris is no longer in Raccoon City, as he went to investigate Umbrella Headquarters in Europe, and asks Claire to forgive him for not informing her as to where he was going. Claire eventually runs into the corrupt Chief Brian Irons, who then attempts to kill her, and twelve-year-old Sherry Birkin, the daughter of two important Umbrella researchers, William Birkin and Annette Birkin. Claire encountered Annette on at least one occasion, during which she accused Claire of being a spy for Umbrella.
As Sherry and Claire looked for a way out of the city, they were stalked by the mutated William Birkin. Whilst inside the sewers, Sherry and Claire were separated, during which time Sherry was found by William and infected with the G-virus. Upon reuniting, Claire attempted to find a cure for Sherry within Umbrella's underground labs. While in the laboratory, Claire ran into Annette one more time, before William arrives and fatally wounds his former wife.
Before dying, Annette gave Claire the instructions for creating the G-virus antidote. Claire contacts Leon to take Sherry to an escape train before the lab self-destruct sequence activated. She manages to create the antidote, and when finished, attempts to flee. However, she was thwarted once again by Birkin, forcing her to fight the monster, Claire then rushed to the train, joined Leon, and successfully administered the vaccine to Sherry. Unfortunately, Birkin, now a gigantic amorphous blob, attacked the train, thus triggering another self-destruct sequence. Claire, Leon, and Sherry escaped moments before the train exploded, destroying William once and for all. Not long after their escape, Leon urged her to leave them and go search for her brother, but goes to the neighboring town first to wash off the nightmares she experienced.
Rockfort Island IncidentEdit
"I don't know what went on between you two, but you have it all wrong. My brother is not the kind of person you think he is.
" |
Three months after her escape from Raccoon City, Claire infiltrated Umbrella's Paris facility in search of her lost brother, Chris. At some point in her investigation, her presence was detected, and a security team was dispatched along with a military chopper to eliminate her. After evading the security force, and having narrowly evaded helicopter gunfire, she was ambushed by the team's remainder, and captured by Rodrigo Juan Raval. She was then taken to Rockfort Island to be imprisoned. Upon her arrival, she is knocked unconscious. She later awakens to the sound of explosions and is freed by a wounded Rodrigo. Due to her strong will to survive and to find her brother, she was able to find her way through the island once it had been attacked by an unknown enemy. Another viral outbreak happened on the island. During her attempt to escape, Claire ran into Steve Burnside, another prisoner on the island, and the two eventually joined forces. Soon, after finding out that Umbrella was spying on her brother, she contacted Leon to tell him and to come get them. During this time, Claire also encountered Alfred Ashford, who insisted that Claire had led enemy forces to the base, and who then released multiple B.O.W.'s to stop her. Claire also had a run-in with her brother's old rival, Albert Wesker, who decided to leave her as bait to get Chris to arrive at the island. As all of this happened, Claire soon found out about Alexia Ashford, and had a supposed run-in with her, only to be saved by Steve, who then shot "Alexia", revealing that it was none other than Alfred, calling him a "cross-dressing freak". As the two found a cargo plane to escape the island, Alfred then sent out a Tyrant (T-103 Model) (model number 078) to deal with the two survivors, and also had the plane's autopilot redirected, sending the two survivors directly to Antarctica. Upon arriving at the base, Claire and Steve found that the entire facility had been infected by the t-Virus. They managed to locate an Australian research base nearby. After having one last showdown with Alfred, she and Steve used a snowmobile to escape the Australian base, but were forced to deal with Nosferatu before leaving. Things seemed fine as the two headed for the base, until a dying Alfred managed to awaken the real hibernating Alexia from stasis, who then held them captive.
When Chris had finally arrived at the Antarctic facility, he managed to rescue Claire, but was separated from her once again by Alexia. To make matters worse, Claire soon found Steve, who had been infected with the T-Veronica virus, thus causing him to mutate. Claire was forced to escape from the monster, only to be nearly killed by a giant tentacle. Steve suddenly came to his senses, and freed Claire, only to be mortally wounded in the process. As he reverted to his human form, he confessed his love to Claire, and died by her side.
Though emotionally distraught from what happened to Steve, Claire managed to give Chris instructions for initializing a self-destruct sequence, before eventually reuniting with him. After Chris killed the mutated form of Alexia once and for all, he attempted to escape with Claire, only to be interrupted by Wesker.
Once their confrontation was over, Chris and Claire evacuated in a harrier, determined to bring Umbrella down, once and for all.
Harvardville IncidentEdit
"Bastard! That little girl will probably have nightmares for the rest of her life because of you!" |
After Chris rescued Claire, the Redfield siblings parted ways. Chris joined the BSAA, while Claire returned to Sherry's side to offer emotional support during the daily tests and experiments conducted against her.[2] Eventually, she joined a non-governmental human rights organization called TerraSave. Seven years after the Raccoon City incident and the Rockfort Island incident, Claire arrives at Harvardville Airport to meet a friend who was part of TerraSave as well. Claire's friend, Aunt Chawla, asks Claire to watch over her niece, Rani Chawla, as Aunt wants to bring the "limo" around front. Claire and Rani introduce themselves and wait for Aunt to come back. As Claire and Rani are waiting, they see senator Ron Davis comes on the airport TV and passes a comment which Claire and Frederic Downing find rather pathetic.
Frederic introduced himself and then leaves. Ron, in disguise, and his bodyguards try to leave the airport until Rani spots him out as "The bad guy we saw on T.V!". As Ron pushed past the reporters, he spotted a man standing around acting like a zombie. Claire takes off the man's mask and he is arrested by the police. The Police Chief asked if Claire was involved with the protest and she responded cautiously, knowing the cop would arrest her too. The cop then thought he spotted another protester, so he went to stop him. It turned out that it was a real zombie, which attacked and killed the cop instantly. Moments later, Ron's bodyguards were killed as well.
The airport was in chaos, and Claire went to go get Rani, who was still in the rest area. She spotted her and ran in her direction until she ran into Curtis Miller, who seemed rather suspicious. Claire focused her attention on Rani and was stopped once again when the senator grabbed her arm and begged for help. Moments later, a plane crashed through the terminal, and Claire threw herself and the senator to the ground to avoid being hit. The airplane door opened, and zombies started coming out from it, bringing Claire back to her nightmares in Raccoon City.
Claire, Rani, Ron and others took refuge in the VIP lounge of the airport. Claire sent out a 911 call for rescue, which was received by S.R.T. member Angela Miller. After calling 911 and waiting for help, a sudden scream followed by gunfire gave Claire the knowledge of other survivors. Equipped with an umbrella, Claire made her way into the hallways to find the scream. She eventually came into contact with her old friend, Leon S. Kennedy, and S.R.T. members Angela Miller and Greg Glenn. The group headed back to the lounge and tried to think of an escape route. Leon suggested they head through the lobby, seeming as if it is the widest area. Ron disagrees until Claire agrees with Leon, saying that the zombies are slow and the group can get around them.
Ron lets out his frustration on Claire until Leon informed the senator that she was one of the survivors of the Raccoon City incident, giving the reasons why she knew what to do with the outbreak. The group ran through the lobby with Leon, Angela, and Greg killing the surrounding zombies. As the group reached the end of the lobby, Greg is bitten, and tells the group to go on without him. They sheltered themselves up on a large broken piece of debris caused from the plane. The zombies start to surround the group, and zombies from the plane managed to get the door down and attack the group. Ron decides to leave without them and knocks Rani off the debris.
Claire hears a scream and notices Rani is being attacked by zombies. Claire, without a weapon, jumps down to protect Rani. Leon goes to help Claire until he is pinned by a zombie. He throws Claire his gun and she kills all of the attacking zombies in an instant. Claire and Rani then rejoin the rest of the group, and make it out of the airport alive. As Rani reunites with Aunt, Claire meets back up with the Senator and Frederic Downing, the man she saw earlier in the airport. As Frederic talks about a vaccination, Claire is convinced that the current outbreak is TerraSave's fault. Leon comforts Claire and tells her that it isn't her fault. At that time, the vaccine trucks blow up, which makes Leon, Claire and Angela investigate. They meet up with Ron and Frederic and Claire tells them that she thinks Curtis Miller might be the terrorist.
Eventually Claire heads to WilPharma with Frederic. After hearing a conversation between Frederic and Ron, she learned that the G-virus was being researched there, just as Frederic had to go fix the server. As she called Leon, a time bomb was set off, causing a shard of glass to embed itself within her leg, severely affecting her mobility. Leon found Claire, helped her get to an elevator which would lead to her escape and hands her his backup gun. Instead of leaving, Claire found the control room and tried to help Leon and Angela escape from Curtis, who had mutated due to a self-injection of the G-virus.
Once Curtis was disposed of, the three survivors meet up outside along with Ron. Claire finds out that Frederic was behind the whole incident at the airport. Leon, Claire and Angela went to arrest Frederic Downing, who had a sample of the G-Virus with him. Angela arrests Frederic, and the cops come and take over the rest of the situation. The next day, Leon and Claire met up with Angela. They told Angela about Frederic's plans and that her brother Curtis was innocent. With the threat of any further outbreaks temporarily subdued, Leon and Claire hope to meet again under more normal circumstances. Leon rushes off to his next mission in a helicopter whilst Claire decides to leave with Rani and Aunt in their vehicle.
Attack on TerraSave HQEdit
Sometime in 2011, Claire Redfield is in attendance of TerraSave headquarters along with newest member and daughter of Barry Burton, Moira. When a military group suddenly attack, Claire, Moira, and more of their co-workers are abducted and brought to an abandoned prison island facility. When Claire comes to, she finds herself in a prison cell with a cuff monitor attached to her arm. The cell door housing her opens, either by itself or from someone operating the controls and watching on the prison security cameras and Claire leaves to find Moira and her other friends. However, Claire also finds the horrific, mutated inhabitants lurking in the darkness of the facility, and to make matters worse, whoever is watching them is using speakers on their cuffs to communicate with them, reciting the works of Franz Kafka.[3]
Personality and RelationshipsEdit
Claire is strong-willed, having grown up confident with training from her older brother, Chris. Her bond with her brother is quite strong, as we first see her coming to look for him after he had gone missing from his home in Raccoon City. Immediately after the events of the outbreak, she passionately continues her search, which results in her infiltrating Umbrella's Paris Lab Facility just to find Chris, despite her being only nineteen years old.
She is quick to draw opinions on people, whether it be when she feels someone is hiding secrets, or even when someone is wholly untrustworthy (as mentioned when she tries to warn Sherry about her feelings on Derek C. Simmons). Subsequently, she easily establishes connections with people, despite sometimes seeming aloof and sarcastic, as she initially treated both Leon S. Kennedy and Steve Burnside. Claire responds more positively to the young girls she meets, Sherry Birkin and Rani Chawla, and becomes protective of them. While Claire and Leon had drifted apart after the events of Raccoon City, Claire remained in contact with Sherry (with the approval of Sherry's government handler) and it would seem that even Sherry, Rani, and Claire have all spent time together - or at the very least would like to.
Claire seems to act as an inspirational figure to some of the younger girls she meets. Although Sherry follows Leon's footsteps as a government agent, Sherry acknowledges that both Claire and Leon helped her form her personality as someone who does not give up and sees the good in people. At some point, Claire also establishes a connection to Moira Burton, the older daughter of Barry Burton, and is the eventual inspiration for Moira to join TerraSave.[3] While Moira is known to be rebellious and foul-mouthed, it's unknown if it was influenced by any previous connection to Claire. Though Sherry demonstrates Claire's knack for occasional sass, Claire having been one of very few people she was allowed to interact with in her life.
She is initially deeply emotional, being one of the few heroes to display rash and strong emotions ranging from fear, anger, and sadness so early on and it is these emotions that drive her on. Yet, by the time of the attack on Harvardville airport, she demonstrates more professionalism and levelheadedness when faced with drastic situations. Claire still occasionally allows bursts of emotion shine through her more adult exterior, usually a result of anger at people that mindlessly or selfishly cause harm to others.
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 バイオハザード コード:ベロニカ 完全版. Capcom.
- ↑ http://projectumbrella.net/articles/Life-Without-Freedom
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 Biohazard Revelations 2 (Official). Capcom.
- Resident Evil 2 characters
- CODE: Veronica characters
- Female characters
- Protagonists
- Living characters
- Darkside Chronicles characters
- Degeneration characters
- Operation Raccoon City characters
- Resident Evil: The Mercenaries 3D
- Playable characters
- Survivor 2 characters
- Revelations 2 characters
- TerraSave members


text:
Information on "Economic Research "
October 2014
Oct 2014
Weltkonjunktur im Herbst 2014
Author: Klaus-Jürgen Gern, Dominik Groll, Joachim Scheide, Tim Schwarzmüller, Maik Wolters
Publisher: Kiel Institute for the World Economy
Diese Arbeit bietet einen Überblick über die gesamtwirtschaftliche Entwicklung und Weltkonjunktur im Herbst 2014. More on «Weltkonjunktur im Herbst 2014»
September 2014
Sep 2014
Do Preferential Trade Agreements Increase Their Members' Foreign Direct Investment?
Author: Max Büge
Publisher: German Development Institute (DIE)
This paper investigates the connection between the signing of preferential trade agreements (PTA) and bilateral foreign direct investment (FDI). More on «Do Preferential Trade Agreements Increase Their Members' Foreign Direct Investment?»
June 2014
Jun 2014
Peer Review of Social Science Research in Global Health
Author: Victoria Fan, Rachel Silverman, David Roodman, William Savedoff
Publisher: Center for Global Development (CGD)
In light of a growing number of research articles on social policies being published in medical journals, this paper examines accusations that such journals are ill-equipped to referee social science research. More on «Peer Review of Social Science Research in Global Health»
May 2014
30 May 2014
KDI Journal of Economic Policy: 2014 II
Author: Tae Bong Kim, Joonhyuk Song, Jung Sung Kim, Kyu Ho Kang, Sukha Shin, Sam-Ho Lee
Publisher: Korea Development Institute (KDI)
This issue of the KDI Journal of Economic Policy includes one English language article. More on «KDI Journal of Economic Policy: 2014 II» -
May 2014
Sovereign Debt Restructuring
Author: James A Haley
Publisher: Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI)
This paper outlines the problems impeding timely sovereign debt restructurings, identifies the policy responses proposed and discussed 10 years ago in response to financial crises, and discusses the elements of old debates and how they can remain rel... More on «Sovereign Debt Restructuring»
February 2014
26 Feb 2014
Free Trade Agreements: Impact on US Trade and Implications for US Trade Policy
Author: William H Cooper
Publisher: Congressional Research Service (CRS)
This paper provides an overview of free trade areas (FTA) including, what FTAs are, why countries form FTAs, FTAs in the context of US trade policy, the Obama administration's policy on FTAs, the economic impact of FTAs, and the what the implications... More on «Free Trade Agreements: Impact on US Trade and Implications for US Trade Policy» -
Feb 2014
Measuring Individual Risk Attitudes in the Lab: Task or Ask? An Empirical Comparison
Author: Jan-Erik Lönnqvist, Markku Verkasalo Gari Walkowitz Philipp C Wichardt
Publisher: Kiel Institute for the World Economy
This paper compares the performance of two empirical measures of individual risk attitudes, namely the Holt and Laury (2002) lottery-choice task and the multi-item questionnaire advocated by Dohmen, Falk, Huffman, Schupp, Sunde and Wagner (2011). More on «Measuring Individual Risk Attitudes in the Lab: Task or Ask? An Empirical Comparison»
January 2014
Jan 2014
Building a Think-and-Do Tank: A Dozen Lessons from the First Dozen Years of the Center for Global Development
Author: Lawrence MacDonald, Todd Moss
Publisher: Center for Global Development (CGD)
This paper reviews the 12 lessons the Center for Global Development (CGD) has learned as a results-oriented think tank during the first 12 years of its existence. More on «Building a Think-and-Do Tank: A Dozen Lessons from the First Dozen Years of the Center for Global Development» -
Making Energy Efficiency Pro-Poor
Author: Babette Never
Publisher: German Development Institute (DIE)
This paper looks into how the incorporation of behavioral factors can improve energy efficiency policies directed towards poor populations in developing countries. More on «Making Energy Efficiency Pro-Poor»
November 2013
Nov 2013
Innovation Rankings: Good, Bad or Revealing?
Author: Yuezhou Cai, Aoife Hanley
Publisher: Kiel Institute for the World Economy
This paper argues that the measures used to compare cross-country innovation in the Global Competitiveness Report (GCR) are flawed due to bias caused by self reporting. More on «Innovation Rankings: Good, Bad or Revealing?»


text:
Ai Kobayashi
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
This biographical article needs additional citations for verification. (October 2008) |
Ai Kobayashi | |
Born | Adachi, Tokyo, Japan |
May 25, 1973
Occupation | Voice actress |
Years active | 1992-present |
Ai Kobayashi (小林愛 Kobayashi Ai?, born May 25, 1973) is a Japanese voice actress from Adachi, Tokyo. She is affiliated with HeaT.
Television animation[edit]
- Detective Conan (Emera, Rumi Shimizu)
- Ergo Proxy (Mayahuel)
- Futari wa Pretty Cure Max Heart (Biblis)
- InuYasha (Akago/Hakudōshi)
- Kino's Journey (Nimya)
- Majin Bone (Anna)
- Mushishi (Tanyū Karibusa)
- Overman King Gainer (Sara Kodama)
- Turn A Gundam (Lily Borjarnon)
- Detroit Metal City (Death Records Manager)
Theater animation[edit]
- Cowboy Bebop: Knockin' on Heaven's Door (2001) (Electra Ovilo)
- Crayon Shin-chan: The Storm Called: The Adult Empire Strikes Back (2001) (Chaco)
- Crayon Shin-chan: The Storm Called: The Battle of the Warring States (2002) (Kasuga Ren)
- Appleseed (2004) (Deunan Knute, also Facial model)
- Appleseed Ex Machina (2007) (Deunan Knute)
Video games[edit]
- Metroid Other M (Samus Aran)
- Super Robot Wars (Saya Krueger)
External links[edit]
- Happou profile
- HeaT profile
- Ai Kobayashi at Anime News Network's encyclopedia
This biographical article about a Japanese voice actor or actress is a stub. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it. |


text:
Common English Bible (CEB) | New International Version (NIV) |
19 He will once again have compassion on us; he will tread down our iniquities. You will hurl all our sins into the depths of the sea. | 19 You will again have compassion on us; you will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea. |
Copyright © 2011 Common English Bible (Common English Bible) | Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. (New International Version Bible Online) |


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Alternate titles for this: Top 5 Small Dogs That are Really Cats and/or Top 5 Pets that should be drop kicked during football halftime shows. ( Edited by mdudlik )
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7 Ways To Get Your Man To Go To The Dentist
By Jenna Birch
Sometimes it's hard to prompt your man to action, even if that action will benefit him in the long run. Getting your man to the dentist would definitely fall into that this-is-slightly-difficult category.
For your guy—heck, for gals too—having dental work done is sort of like buying a new car or running a marathon—he might want to do it, but he will probably put it off because he doesn't think it's possible or it's just not at the forefront of his mind. But as you know, that's what girlfriends and wives are for! We kid, but only a little bit. Research has shown that men are less likely than women to see the doc. So give your guy a tiny nudge in the dentistry direction with help from our partners at TopDentists.com, who have simple fixes for tons of common dental problems. They provide the details, we provide the guide, and you provide the man.
Of course, dental problems are by no means limited to men, so ladies, if you're having any issues with your teeth, these solutions will work for you too. Who knew a dazzling smile was so attainable? Can Better Teeth Lead To A Better Love Life?
Problem: Yellow teeth.
Solution: Laser bleaching.
Most people's teeth aren't natually movie-star white—but they can be. In about the time it would take to go to the grocery store or watch a basketball game, a dental pro can transform discolored teeth into a grin so blinding it'll be time for a sunglasses alert. (OK, so you probably can't cause passersby permanent injury by flashing those pearly whites... But his teeth will be really white.) One trip. Two hours. It's that easy.
Problem: Stained teeth.
Solution: Custom-fit tray whitening.
Starbucks can cause some major damage, beyond the inevitable caffeine crash: Too much mocha can lead to serious stains. A whitening tray is the fix. It's the most common whitening procedure available because it's relatively inexpensive and easy. A dentist will fit your man with a custom tray for the bleaching gel, which he'll wear one to two hours a day for just a couple weeks. And voila! Beautiful smile. Then just remind him to lighten up on the lattes for the future to preserve that gorgeous grin.
Problem: Crooked teeth.
Solution: Invisalign®.
If your guy would love to straighten his smile but missed the boat on the metal mouth of yesteryear (remember how fun that was?), then introduce him to Invisalign®. Yes, invisible braces. He can gradually get that flawless smile without anyone even knowing he's having work done. We're happy it exists and all, but we're also a little peeved. Why didn't they have Invisalign® when we took our forays into orthodontia in junior high? We imagine it would have come in handy.
Problem: Decayed or gapped teeth.
Solution: Dental composites and tooth bonding.


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Dementia in Head Injury Topic Guide
Dementia in Head Injury: Head injury occurs when an outside force hits the head hard enough to cause the brain to move violently within the skull. This force can cause shaking, twisting, bruising (contusion), ...
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Perkie's Observations: Helena, Dammit, What Have You Done on General Hospital? Perkie January 28, 2015 General Hospital Fluke thinks Dante dug up Bill Eckert's grave and worries that Dante is headed for the Elm Street basement. Helena tells him Dante won't find anything in the basement because she took care of things.
James Scott Gets 'Wrecked' Luke Kerr January 28, 2015 Days of Our Lives, Pop Confidential, TBS, TV 3 Comments Former Days of Our Lives star James Scott has landed a new comedy pilot on TBS. According to The Hollywood Reporter the former Salem bad boy is set to portray Liam, "a confident, charismatic, appealing, natural leader and seemingly the most handsome man in the world–even after a plane crash" on Wrecked.
Eileen Davidson Dishes Hanky Panky and Cocaine Use on Soaps on WWHL Luke Kerr January 28, 2015 Bravo, Days of Our Lives, The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, The Young and The Restless 3 Comments The Young and the Restless and The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Eileen Davidson dropped by Andy Cohen's Watch What Happens Live on Tuesday. The Y&R favorite dished about back stage hanky panky, cocaine dealers and alcohol use on soaps in the 1980s.
GH Grad Brianna Brown Returns to Devious Maids Luke Kerr January 28, 2015 General Hospital, Pop Confidential, TV Former General Hospital star Brianna Brown is set to return to Lifetime's Devious Maids as a series regular when it returns for its third season.
Perkie's Observations: Dante Realizes Luke's Having a Nightmare on Elm Street on General Hospital Perkie January 27, 2015 General Hospital, News, Soap Opera 26 Comments The Spencers meet up at Ruby's graveside. Dante questions Fluke about Bill's connection.Fluke is rude. Dante is surprised to hear about the Haunted Star party.
General Hospital's Finola Hughes, Laura Wright and Maura West Laugh It Up (PHOTOS) Luke Kerr January 27, 2015 General Hospital, Photos Laura Wright (Carly), Maura West (Ava) and Finola Hughes (Anna) hosted a special event at The Brokerage on January 24. The three General Hospital divas answered questions, signed autographs, posed for photos and mixed with fans at the event that had everyone laughing.
Is Clyde Going Down This Week on Days of Our Lives? (PROMO) Luke Kerr January 27, 2015 Days of Our Lives, Days of our Lives Spoilers, Promos & Previews, Soap Opera Spoilers, Spoilers 9 Comments Clyde (James Read) has been worming his way into Salem society, but has Backwoods Bubba met his match? This week on Days of Our Lives, Victor (John Aniston) threatens the two-bit criminal. Meanwhile, Rafe (Galen Gering) wants him out of Salem too.
Will Victor Go Too Far on The Young and the Restless? (PROMO) Luke Kerr January 27, 2015 Promos & Previews, Soap Opera Spoilers, Spoilers, The Young and The Restless, The Young and the Restless Spoilers 48 Comments Victor (Eric Braeden) has done a lot of ruthless and terrible things over the years, but will he cross the line? This week, Victor seemingly stabs Phyllis (Gina Tognoni) with a needle on The Young and the Restless. This better be a dream sequence.


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Flotek Industries, Inc. Announces Operational Update Related To Colorado Severe Flooding And Upcoming Investor Presentation
Oct. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Flotek Industries, Inc. (NYSE: FTK) ("Flotek" or the "Company") today announced updates regarding activity in the Denver-Julesburg Basin ("D-J Basin") and announced its presentation this week at the Independent Petroleum Association of America's Oil and Gas Investment Symposium in
San Francisco.
Impact of September Floods on D-J Basin Activity
September's record rainfall in Colorado had a significant impact on oilfield activity in the Denver-Julesburg Basin as severe flooding along the Front Range, especially in the Big Thompson Canyon and South Platte River, resulted in substantial production shut-ins and a significant decline in regional oilfield activity for the second-half of September.
As noted by leading operators and service companies in the D-J Basin, drilling and completion activity was halted in the region around September 15 and was slow to resume through the end of September. While activity has begun to resume, infrastructure damage and personnel displacement will continue to have an impact on the return to normal operations in the region in the coming weeks.
After examining activity curtailment and delivery delays resulting from flooding, Flotek believes it will experience a transient delay in revenue of approximately $2.5 million in the third quarter. It is too early to determine any lingering revenue impact from infrastructure and personnel issues, although Flotek is beginning to experience more normal procurement patterns from our clients. Flotek experienced no loss of equipment or inventory as a result of the flooding. "First and foremost, we join our clients and friends in expressing our concern and compassion for those directly impacted by this unfathomable natural disaster and those that continue to experience the lasting impacts of unprecedented flooding," said John Chisholm, Flotek's Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer. "While the loss of revenue will have a modest, transient impact on our third quarter revenue, that is of little concern when compared to the challenges and hardships faced by our clients and their hard working associates in Colorado. We will do everything possible to assist in the recovery and restoration efforts and are focused on returning normalcy to the region with any help we can provide." Presentation at Independent Petroleum Association of America Oil & Gas Investment Symposium Flotek will make a presentation at the Independent Petroleum Association of America San Francisco Oil and Gas Investment Symposium on Wednesday, October 2, 2013. John Chisholm, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Flotek, will present to conference attendees beginning at 8:55am PDT. The presentation will be webcast live beginning at 8:55am PDT on Wednesday, October 2, 2013 and can be accessed from Flotek's website, www.flotekind.com. The presentation slides will be available on the Flotek website coincident with the conference presentation.Check Out Our Best Services for Investors
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Got a thing for carrottops? You'll find plenty of them at this monthly soiree for gingers and their friends. DJ Sean McMahill (guess what color his hair is) presides while you knock back $2 pints and $3 whiskey gingers.
Fire in the Hole
Event phone: | 212-477-4744 |
Event website: | http://facebook.com/fireinthehole.newyork |