text:
How do mathematicians learn math?: resources and acts for constructing and understanding mathematics
- Michelle H. Wilkerson-Jerde,
- Uri J. Wilensky
- … show all 2 hide
Rent the article at a discount
Rent now* Final gross prices may vary according to local VAT.
Get AccessAbstract
In this paper, we present an analytic framework for investigating expert mathematical learning as the process of building a network of mathematical resources by establishing relationships between different components and properties of mathematical ideas. We then use this framework to analyze the reasoning of ten mathematicians and mathematics graduate students that were asked to read and make sense of an unfamiliar, but accessible, mathematical proof in the domain of geometric topology. We find that experts are more likely to refer to definitions when questioning or explaining some aspect of the focal mathematical idea and more likely to refer to specific examples or instantiations when making sense of an unknown aspect of that idea. However, in general, they employ a variety of types of mathematical resources simultaneously. Often, these combinations are used to deconstruct the mathematical idea in order to isolate, identify, and explore its subcomponents. Some common patterns in the ways experts combined these resources are presented, and we consider implications for education.
- Alcock, L., & Inglis, M. (2008). Doctoral students' use of examples in evaluating and proving conjectures. Educational Studies in Mathematics, 69, 111–129. CrossRef
- Ball, D. L., Hoyles, C., Jahnke, H. N., & Movshovitz-Hadar, N. (2002). The teaching of proof. In Proceedings of the International Congress of Mathematicians (Vol. 3, pp. 907–920).
- Bell, A. W. (1976). A study of pupils' proof-explanations in mathematical situations. Educational Studies in Mathematics, 7(1), 23–40. CrossRef
- Bransford, J. D., Brown, A. L., & Cocking, R. R. (Eds.). (1999). How people learn: Brain, mind, experience, and school. Washington, DC: National Academy Press.
- Burton, L. (1999). The practices of mathematicians: What do they tell us about coming to know mathematics? Educational Studies in Mathematics, 37, 121–143. CrossRef
- Chi, M. (1997). Quantifying qualitative analyses of verbal data: A practical guide. Journal of the Learning Sciences, 6(3), 271–315. CrossRef
- Clement, J. (2000). Analysis of clinical interviews: Foundations & model viability. In R. Lesh (Ed.), Handbook of research methodologies for science and mathematics education (pp. 341–385). Hillsdale, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum.
- Cuoco, A., Goldenberg, E. P., & Mark, J. (1996). Habits of mind: An organizing principle for mathematics curricula. Journal of Mathematical Behavior, 15, 375–402. CrossRef
- de Villiers, M. (1990). The role and function of proof in mathematics. Pythagoras, 24(1), 17–24.
- Duffin, J., & Simpson, A. (2000). A search for understanding. The Journal of Mathematical Behavior, 18(4), 415–427. CrossRef
- Ericsson, K. A., & Simon, H. A. (1984). Protocol analysis: Verbal reports as data. Cambridge, MA: MIT Press.
- Glaser, B. G., & Strauss, A. L. (1977). The discovery of grounded theory: Strategies for qualitative research. London: Aldine.
- Gray, E., Pinto, M. M. F., Pitta, D., & Tall, D. (1999). Knowledge construction and diverging thinking in elementary & advanced mathematics. Educational Studies in Mathematics, 38(1), 111–133. CrossRef
- Hanna, G., & Barbeau, E. (2008). Proofs as bearers of mathematical knowledge. ZDM, 40(3), 345–353. CrossRef
- Hanna, G., & de Villiers, M. (2008). ICMI study 19: Proof and proving in mathematics education. ZDM, 40, 329–336. CrossRef
- Hatano, G., & Inagaki, K. (1986). Two courses of expertise. In H. William Stevenson, & K. H. Hiroshi Azuma (Eds.), Child development and education in Japan (pp. 262–272). San Francisco, CA: W. H. Freeman.
- Hersh, R. (1993). Proving is convincing and explaining. Educational Studies in Mathematics, 24(4), 389–399. CrossRef
- Inglis, M., Mejia-Ramos, J. P., & Simpson, A. (2007). Modelling mathematical argumentation: The importance of qualification. Educational Studies in Mathematics, 66, 3–21. CrossRef
- Lakatos, I. (1976). Proofs and refutations: The logic of mathematical discovery. Cambridge, UK: Cambridge University Press.
- Mejia-Ramos, J. P., & Inglis, M. (2009). Argumentative and proving activities in mathematics education research. In F. L. Lin, F. J. Hsieh, G. Hanna, & M. de Villiers (Eds.), Proceedings of the international commission on mathematical instruction study 19, proof and proving in mathematics education (Vol. 2, pp. 88–93). Taipei, Taiwan: The Department of Mathematics, National Taiwan Normal University.
- Michener, E. R. (1978). Understanding understanding mathematics. Cognitive Science, 2, 361–383. CrossRef
- NCTM (1989). Curriculum and evaluation standards for school mathematics. Reston, VA: The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics.
- Papert, S. (1971). On making a theorem for a child. Paper presented at the ACM Annual Conference, Boston, MA.
- Papert, S. (1993). The children's machine: Rethinking school in the age of the computer. New York: Basic Books.
- Patel, V. L., & Groen, G. (1991). The specific and general nature of medical expertise: A critical look. In K. A. Ericsson, & J. Smith (Eds.), Toward a general theory of expertise: Prospects and limits. Cambridge, UK: Cambridge University Press.
- Rav, Y. (1999). Why do we prove theorems? Philosophia Mathematica, 7(1), 5–41.
- Roth, W. M., & Bowen, G. M. (2003). When are graphs worth ten thousand words? An expert–expert study. Cognition and Instruction, 21(4), 429–473. CrossRef
- Schoenfeld, A. H. (1985). Mathematical problem solving. Orlando, FL: Academic Press.
- Sierpinska, A. (1994). Understanding in mathematics. Bristol, PA: The Falmer Press, Taylor & Francis Inc.
- Skemp, R. R. (1976). Relational understanding and instrumental understanding. Mathematics Teaching, 77, 20–26.
- Stanford, T. (1998). Found observations of n-triviality and Brunnian links. http://arxivorg/abs/math/9807161.
- Stylianou, D. A., & Silver, E. A. (2004). The role of visual representations in advanced mathematical problem solving: An examination of expert-novice similarities and differences. Mathematical Thinking and Learning, 6(4), 353–387. CrossRef
- Tall, D. (2001). Relationships between embodied objects and symbolic procepts: An explanatory theory of success and failure in mathematics. In M. van den Heuvel-Panhuizen (Ed.), Proceedings of the 25th conference of the International Group for the Psychology of Mathematics Education (Vol. 3, pp. 65–72). Utrecht, The Netherlands: PME.
- Vinner, S. (1991). The role of definitions in the teaching and learning of mathematics. Advanced Mathematical Thinking, 11, 65–81.
- Watson, A., & Mason, J. (2002). Student-generated examples in the learning of mathematics. Canadian Journal of Science, Mathematics and Technology Education, 2(2), 237–249. CrossRef
- Weber, K., & Alcock, L. (2004). Semantic and syntactic proof productions. Educational Studies in Mathematics, 56(2/3), 209–234. CrossRef
- Wilensky, U. (1991). Abstract meditations on the concrete and concrete implications for mathematics education. In I. Harel, & S. Papert (Eds.), Constructionism (pp. 193–203). Norwood, NJ: Ablex.
- Wilensky, U. (1993). Connected mathematics: Building concrete relationships with mathematical knowledge. Ph.D. thesis, MIT.
- Wineburg, S. (1997). Reading Abraham Lincoln: An expert/expert study in the interpretation of historical texts. Cognitive Science, 22(3), 319–346. CrossRef
- Title
- How do mathematicians learn math?: resources and acts for constructing and understanding mathematics
- Journal
Educational Studies in Mathematics
Volume 78, Issue 1 , pp 21-43
- Cover Date
- 2011-09-01
- 10.1007/s10649-011-9306-5
- Print ISSN
- 0013-1954
- Online ISSN
- 1573-0816
- Publisher
- Springer Netherlands
- Additional Links
- Topics
- Keywords
- Expert mathematicians
- Topology
- Proof
- Reasoning
- Knowledge resources
- Authors
- Michelle H. Wilkerson-Jerde (1) (2)
- Uri J. Wilensky (1) (2) (3) (4)
- Author Affiliations
- 1. Center for Connected Learning, Northwestern University, 2120 Campus Drive, Evanston, IL, USA
- 2. Learning Sciences Program, Northwestern University, 2120 Campus Drive, Evanston, IL, USA
- 3. Computer Science and Electrical Engineering, Northwestern University, 2120 Campus Drive, Evanston, IL, USA
- 4. Northwestern Institute on Complex Systems, Northwestern University, 2120 Campus Drive, Evanston, IL, USA


text:
Low-Tech Training Motivation
Two of my strongest beliefs in regards to training are that you can do well with little or nothing and that exercise can be fun. You do not need a complex system to be produce results. Hard work with the basics will always be effective. And yes, it is possible to enjoy the process.
Now if you've followed this blog for any amount of time, you've heard me beat these ideas into the ground. I am passionate about these beliefs so it has become a mission of mine to share the simplistic approach. If we ever wish to combat the obesity epidemic, we must get more people up and moving. The best way to do so is by making exercise more accessible and fun.
I hate the idea of manipulating someone to do something that they do not enjoy. You shouldn't view each minute of exercise as slow and painful torture. Life is too short to waste it repeatedly doing things that we despise. Exercise can be so much more rewarding (physically and mentally) when we perform activities that we enjoy. Now this doesn't mean that there won't be times when you are forced to push through discomfort and fatigue. My point is that such discomfort can be embraced when you know it is bringing you closer to your goals.
Now I could go on all day about the joys of possessing a physically capable body. Some people won't listen however simply because it is coming from me. I train athletes for a living so my opinion could be seen as biased. And in all honesty, perhaps I am biased. I really do not know any other way. I have embraced movement and athletics my entire life.
Fortunately, I can provide examples other than my own to help spread the message. You don't need to take my word for it when so many others are willing to share their own experiences. Below is one of many videos that I've received in just the past few days alone. The individuals in this video recently thanked me for inspiring them to begin training this way after reading Never Gymless a few years ago.
The work that they perform is truly inspiring. To think that these men from the other side of the world have been influenced by my work is something I could have never imagined in my earlier life. I am truly honored.
As for the work itself, it is clear that these men enjoy what they are doing. No one reaches their level by doing work that they despise. Yes, the work that they perform is challenging but there are clear rewards that make each minute of training a worthwhile step in the right direction. These men challenge each other, motivate each other, and improve each other. The results are obvious and impossible to deny.
And once again, consider the simplistic nature of their training. Such work can be performed almost anywhere. They run, they jump, they climb, and lift. They move and enjoy the process, the camaraderie, and certainly the results. You can be sure that these men don't rise each day dreading the workout to come. Words are not needed to communicate passion. It is as clear as day even when filmed in remote areas on the other side of the globe.
The ability to simplify means to eliminate the unnecessary so that the necessary may speak. – Hans Hofmann
8 comments8 Comments so far
David January 14th, 2014 1:15 pm
What a good bunch of people!
Some varied and interesting workouts there.
Cheers Ross!
Happy new year by the way
J G January 14th, 2014 1:39 pm
Ross, how do you keep from getting elbow pain when trying to increase your chinning numbers/strength?
I think I have a mild case of golfer's elbow.
Eric January 14th, 2014 3:23 pm
Thanks for another inspiring video. I just wish the amount of footage and information on exercising was available years ago when I started training. Maybe you had a book or two on running and some bodybuilding mags for guidance but nothing like today with all the varied types of exercises and training. Much easier to get motivation today and yet people are as a whole in much worst physical shape than they were a scant few decades ago.
John January 14th, 2014 9:24 pm
I'm fired up for tomorrow mornings workout. Really fired up and ready to go!
Keith January 14th, 2014 10:03 pm
It's cool that you are athletic and I read that you were raised right to be athletic and healthy (ie, you wrote that you and your Dad used to do push up competitions).As for myself, I was brought up around grand parents who were fraud I'd get molested if I went outside alone as a kid (and they had a 40acre parcel all to themselves) and instead thought the answer was to keep me inside sitting on my ass playing videos games and eating junk food till I puked- a garbage lifestyle I know.
Because of lousy rearing and bad choices I regretted loss of athletic potential now that I'm in my 30s
Have you had clients that are 30s and 40s who've been obese their whole life's get to a pint of athletic development where they could do things they never could like pull ups or slam dunk a basketball? I've never been able to do a pull up and am stuck on horizontal rows on the Smith machine, it pisses me off so bad!!! How can I ever build the strength to do it??? That's one thing that agonizes me immensely. I've done sets of 80 push ups as a teen but never a pull up- it's the kind of thing that pisses me off more than words can describe. -
admin January 15th, 2014 10:23 am
@Keith – I've seen plenty of folks go from a life of inactivity to TREMENDOUS ability with a variety of exercises and activities. There are actually many examples even posted throughout the blog's archives. Here is a favorite of mine. I will likely do an update on her soon also as she's gotten even stronger in the last year.
admin January 15th, 2014 10:26 am
@J G – Listen to the body closely and cut back on volume/intensity when needed. Elbow usually comes from trying to progress too fast. Intensity and volume must be closely watched.
In addition, consider working with a neutral grip at times. This hand position tends to put less stress on the elbows. I do much of my chinning work with a neutral grip as my elbows already take abuse from holding the mitts (I'm a boxing coach). I also coach baseball in the summer so end up throwing a lot of batting practice. I adjust my chin/pull work accordingly at various times in the year.
Keith January 16th, 2014 5:17 am
Wow Ross she's an inspiration for real! Thanks!
Leave a reply

subset: commoncrawl


text:
An effective chart can answer many questions, but it can never answer all questions. It might answer the exact question the chart designer wanted to answer, but even the most astute designer cannot control his or her audience. A curious audience will read a chart and, with luck, come up with new questions.
Once upon a time everyone knew who was No. 1. My mates, my Mum and probably your Mum too - knew if Blur had beaten Oasis, and whether the Spice Girls had managed to get their sixth chart topper in a row. Now that's no longer the case. Unless it's the Christmas No. 1, with its attendant media hoopla, the specifics of who exactly is heading the charts often passes us by.


text:
Prime Minister Stephen Harper tipped the Senate's balance of power on Friday in a bid to expedite a series of justice bills and launch what he depicted as an era of change.
But Harper was immediately lambasted by opposition MPs who said he was doing the very thing he promised to stop by stocking the unelected chamber with partisan appointees directed to do his bidding.
A statement from the Prime Minister's Office called the appointments "another step toward implementing the government's tackling-crime agenda and respecting the will of the democratically-elected House of Commons."
Veteran Ontario Tory MPP Bob Runciman headed the list of five new senators, giving the Conservative government a plurality of seats in the upper house.
Also named are Pierre-Hugues Boisvenu from Quebec, Vim Kochhar from Ontario, Elizabeth Marshall from Newfoundland and Labrador, and Rose-May Poirier from New Brunswick.
"Our government is serious about getting tough on crime," Harper said in the statement. "Since we were first elected, we have made it one of our highest priorities."
Opposition parties wasted no time in condemning the move.
The Liberals criticized the appointments as nothing more than hypocritical, partisan, patronage plums – direct contradictions to Harper's own undertakings to reform the upper house.
"He simply does not respect promises to his political base," Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff said outside a darkened Commons chamber, which Harper has shut down until March.
The prime minister cites a need for speedy passage of his crime bills, Ignatieff noted, but "then he prorogues Parliament and all 26 of them go down the drain."
"He's going to have to bring back the crime bills and we're going to have to start all over again. I think it says quite a lot about his attitudes to public safety and I think it says a lot about his respect for our institutions."
Ignatieff said a Liberal government would proceed with Senate reform on things like term limits, after consulting the provinces.
Runciman is a politician from eastern Ontario who has served at Queen's Park for almost 30 years. He's held a variety of provincial cabinet posts, including solicitor general and public safety minister.
He also sponsored a provincial private member's bill in 2008 proposing Senate elections. Ironically, under its provisions, no sitting member of the legislature would be eligible to run for a Senate seat.
"For too long, the Ignatieff Liberals have abused their majority in the Senate by obstructing law-and-order bills that are urgently needed and strongly supported by Canadians," Runciman said Friday, reading from a prepared text.
"Today, this abuse comes to an end."
Boisvenu, whose daughter was murdered in 2002, is a champion of crime victims' rights. Kochhar is an India-born businessman and chair of the Canadian Paralympic Association.
Marshall is former auditor general of Newfoundland and a member of the legislature since 2003. Poirier is a businesswoman and former New Brunswick cabinet minister. Both are Progressive Conservatives.
The newly appointed senators, Harper said, are "committed to community safety and justice for the victims of crime."
All have pledged to support Harper's minority government in its "efforts to make the Senate more democratic and accountable, including legislation to limit Senate terms to eight years," said Harper.
The appointments are effective immediately, with the exception of Poirier's, which is effective Feb. 28.
They end years of Liberal domination in the upper chamber and leave the Tories just two seats shy of a Senate majority. The power shift could help clear the way for Harper to reform the Senate itself.
Filling Senate vacancies and reconstituting Senate committees to reflect the new Conservative numbers were among the driving forces behind Harper's controversial decision to prorogue Parliament.
Friday's appointments bring to 32 the number of Senate appointments the prime minister has made in the last year – a record, said the opposition.
Control of the Senate floor as well as bulked-up numbers on Senate committees should mean a smoother ride for government bills through the legislative process.
New Democrat MP David Christopherson launched a blistering attack against Harper – "a minority prime minister who feels that somehow he's entitled to majority control in the Senate."
"As long as the Senate does his bidding, the Senate's working the way it ought to," said Christopherson. "It's only a problem for him when it doesn't do what he wants."
He called the unelected chamber a "farce," a "joke," and "the wart on the Canadian body politic." He said it should be abolished.
"What a disgrace, what an absolute disgrace that any prime minister who said he wants to reform the Senate is now breaking records in terms of the number of people that he's appointing."
"This is about the political character of this man," he said. "When the Senate's in his way, he bullies the Senate."


text:
Books & Music Career Computers Education Family Food & Wine Health & Fitness Hobbies & Crafts Home & Garden Money News & Politics Relationships Religion & Spirituality Sports Travel & Culture TV & Movies
Exercise & Workouts Weight Loss Information
5 Minute Fitness Solutions Arms of Steel Workout Circuit [offsite link] At-Home Workouts vs. Gym Workouts Best Exercise To Lose Weight Best Workouts for Fat Loss Boot Camp Workout Weightloss Secrets Cardio Haters Guide to Burning Calories Celebrity Trainer Fat Loss Secrets Crosstraining For Weightloss Dance Workouts for A Flat Belly Downward Dog for Increased Fat Burning Exercise Excuse Buster Fitness Tips To Blast Through A Weightloss Plateau Get Bikini Body Abs In Just Two Weeks Get Lean for Fabulous Abs Get Lean In 15 Gym Workouts vs. A-Home Workouts High Intensity Cardio How To Build A Home Gym You´ll Use How Yoga Boosts Weightloss Lean Legs Four Week Challenge Lose Belly Fat Fast Guide Should You Hire A Fitness Trainer? Stick To Your Workout Program Ten Minute Workout Challenge The 30 Minute Circuit Workout The Fat Burning Zone & Weightloss The Importance of Cross Training [offsite link] The Real Reason to Exercise Thirty Day Weight Loss Challenge Abs and Core Top 3 Exercises for Fat Loss & Fitness Walk Away The Pounds Walk Your Way to Fitness & Weightloss Weightloss Cardio Workout Tips What Counts As A Workout? Why Everyone Should Cross Train Yoga For Weightloss Links marked with the [offsite link] designation point to websites not associated with BellaOnline.com. BellaOnline.com is not responsible for the material found there.
Want to Suggest a Link? Think your link belongs here? Use the contact page to let this editor know. |
| About BellaOnline | Privacy Policy | Advertising | Become an Editor | Website copyright © 2014
Minerva WebWorks LLC. All rights reserved.


text:
Doug FergusonOctober 1996 |
Many of us believe that we live charmed lives -- that guardian angels stand watch over us from comfortable perches upon our sturdy shoulders. Without fail, we always seem to be in the right place at the right time, bumping into celebrities on the street or meeting that person who just happens to have the perfect job for us.
Things fall into place like a self-arranging puzzle. There's seldom any work involved, and while others seem to be scrambling vainly to get to the top, we're riding the express elevator and filing our nails. Our lives read like storybook fiction. Exciting things that always happen to "the other guy" happen to us. We are "the other guy," and although we sometimes feel sorry for those poor schmucks who just don't seem to have the amazing luck that we do, you won't hear us complaining too loudly.
But what happens when our guardian angels get caught with their pants down?
I was walking to my Chicago apartment late last summer when I decided to sit for awhile and observe whatever creatures of the night were slinking along the city streets at 3 a.m. I wasn't far from my apartment, but I wasn't ready to sleep yet, and I was curious about what I might see on Halsted Street at that late hour. It wasn't long before I was approached by a woman who obviously had lost her guardian angel long ago.
"Do you live in this building?" she asked, a faint look of hope dawning in her eyes. "Because if you do, maybe you could let me into the lobby so that I could find some place to sleep. I'm homeless, you know."
For just a moment, I thought about taking her back to my building and letting her inside. After all, I probably wouldn't know the difference, and she seemed harmless enough . . . but I thought better of it. Someone else had been letting homeless people into my building fairly regularly, and they often ended up asleep at the top of the stairs, just outside my apartment door.
"No, I'm afraid not," I replied, thinking that my response would send her on her way.
Instead, she just stood there. Although she faced in my direction, she seemed to be looking at some faraway place. I got the feeling she was searching for something, so I decided to ask a question. The minute I asked it, however, I realized how prying and pompous I must have sounded.
"How did you get to be homeless?"
After pausing for a moment, her sad eyes focusing on me for the first time since she approached, the woman haltingly began telling me a story of her past. Although spoken with a vocabulary that seemed to imply an advanced education, the story that followed was disjointed and rambling. Sentence fragments blended together in ways that did not quite make sense, although a basic theme began to take shape.
This woman, who was obviously intelligent, had come to the city from a suburb somewhere -- leaving behind at least one child and whatever other family she had once known. Her story was too jumbled for me to figure out exactly how she had come to this place, but I began to suspect mental illness or drug abuse. I had no other explanation for why a woman of her intelligence would be on the streets telling a perfect stranger a barely understandable story.
"Was it drugs?" I asked, again feeling a little intrusive.
"It couldn't be," she responded quickly. It was clear that I had struck a nerve.
"I mean, everyone is doing drugs, right?" she pleaded. "But they still have their jobs. No one has taken their child away. Why would I lose everything just because I did drugs when everyone else is doing them, too?"
Her last question sounded eerily familiar to me, and I didn't know how to answer it right away. I became a little uncomfortable as I began to see myself in her, and I decided it was time to go. I said goodbye as I stood to leave, and we wandered off into the night with her unanswered question hanging heavily between us.
"There, but by the grace of God, go I," I thought as I neared my apartment. A cold chill wracked me despite the muggy night.
All of us who are lucky enough to have guardian angels sure do put them to the test, don't we? We make stupid mistakes. We do things that should get us into trouble, even if we get away with them. And so many of us are secure in the belief that -- with the protection of the courageous cherubs on our shoulders -- we are invincible.
But even the most tireless of angels takes a five-minute break every once and while, don't they? And if they're running to the john while we're driving drunk, shooting drugs, or having unsafe sex, our luck may very well run out. Even the best of us slips up on occasion. And if our timing is off, our angels might never return.
I guess my angel took a break on that unfortunate day two years ago when I was stupid enough to have unsafe sex with my boyfriend. Before that day, I also believed in the power of my angel, who had always come through for me in a pinch. Since then, however -- on the days when self-pity overcomes common sense -- I have sometimes wondered at why I became HIV positive.
After all, I see people all around me doing exactly what I did -- and worse. I see men and women mixing alcohol and drugs with sex. I see men and women taunting fate by going from one partner to the next. I see men and women working their guardian angels to the bone. But they're getting away with it, aren't they? Are they?
What happens when their guardian angels get caught with their pants down?
I am what happens. That homeless woman on the streets of Chicago is what happens. Believe it or not, we also had guardian angels once. And there, but by the grace of God, go you.
Over the next month, and during the week of World AIDS Day (December 1), I plan to focus more specifically on the dangers that HIV poses to all of us and on the way the virus has directly affected my life. I do this with the hope that this information and my experiences will prompt you to put more trust in your own good judgment and common sense, instead of in your weary little guardian angel. After all, your life is too precious to put your faith in luck.


text: Itchy Trigger Finger Heading to Colorado Springs Sean and the guys head to Colorado Springs where Hammer and Sean met and enthusiastic jouster who has what could be a medieval jousting lance. Here is a medieval enthusiast, in full armor, prepares to meet the weapons experts. Battle Aftermath A majestic helmet lays in the dust after a joust. Prepping to Strike Sean Rich, Adrian Alford, Jim Green, and Larry Harley listen as they are briefed in preparation for the joust. Lance in Hand Jim Green, holding a lance and shield sits on horseback, ready to joust against Adrian. Knights used lances like this in battle during the high Middle Ages as a war tactic. Once that became obsolete, it was turned into a sport that was used by knights to gain honor. Getting Ready to Battle Adrian Alford grins excitedly as he readies his lance and shield to joust against Jim. Not many lances survived that period. So finding one is close to impossible. If this lance is the real deal, this may be one of the oldest and most valuable items in the auction. Medieval Jousting Adrian Alford and Jim Green ride past each other during the joust, lances bouncing off each others' shields. Who is the Winner? After the joust, Sean, Adrian, Jim, and Larry discuss the results of the competition. 0 comments   Get Livefyre FAQ Sign in + Follow Post comment Link Newest | Oldest


text:
Very little survives a man's death. I have commented before that most of the "Great's" from history did not write much down for themselves and Gandhi is no different. For while he did write many letters (all available online) he did this not because he wanted to leave lessons for you and I to follow or to build a movement around, but simply because he didn't have a telephone. If you are looking for published books then you only have one to find; his autobiography "The Story of My Experiments with Truth".
I have a copy of it, I picked up in Mumbai, and it is not what you might expect.


text:
Purging Iniquity
Ultimately, the impenitent are confirmed in sin forever—they continue to experience its degrading and destructive effects in hell and feel the fury of God's wrath. We should not think that the sinners in hell want to be anywhere ...Read More
Putting Off and Putting On
Having been baptized into Christ we have put on Christ (Gal. 3:27), and a deceitful tongue has no place in those who belong to the Savior. All people should expect honesty from us, for we are followers of the ...Read More
Reasoning with the LORD
Isaiah 1:18 is a great promise indeed, assuring us that no matter how much sin has stained our souls, God can cleanse us completely and make us stand before Him as His holy people. But for this to happen ...Read More
Recalling Our Purpose
We may not often think about it, but when we do good to others we are doing more than just obeying the Lord's command. Since God is the one who pours out His common grace upon all creation, every ...Read More
Recognizing Our Enmity
Think of the characteristics and qualities of intimate friendship, then apply these to your spiritual relationship with the heavenly Father. Are you truly a friend of God? Read More
Redemption's Drama
Other people may treat us unjustly, but the Lord never does. His justice is perfect and will never condemn the righteous, nor will He let the sinner go unpunished. In Christ, the Father has judged His sinful people so that ...Read More
Repenting of Our Righteousness
Today's passage reminds us that God does not grade on a curve. We may consider ourselves better than others on a human level when we evaluate ourselves by imperfect human standards of justice, but the Lord evaluates us by ...Read More
Resisting the Sinful Nature
As we finish our study of Galatians, consider anew Paul's defense of the Gospel. All in whom the Spirit has worked must continue to fulfill the law of Christ. We are not redeemed to live independently. God gave the ...Read More
Restoring Our Relationship
Examine your spiritual condition in light of Edwards's five points of tension between God and man.Read More
Ruin, Misery, and Bloodshed
Although there is a decisive break with our past lives at conversion so that the power of sin is broken, the gospel is not something we need only at that point. As we continue to sin and shed blood through ...Read More
Setting One's Mind on the Spirit
Even though the Spirit of God provides us with real power to obey God now, that power does not perfect us in this life. John Calvin comments on Romans 8:1-2: "Wherever the real fear of God is vigorous, it ...Read More
Shades of Gray
Though the Spirit grants us new life in Christ, this does not mean we immediately overcome our ignorance of God's ways. Instead, the Spirit works through Scripture, illuminating it as we read and hear it so that we might ...Read More
Sin and Judgment
Spend some time today and through the weekend confessing your sins before God. Be specific. Recognize that you deserve God's disciplines in your life and praise Him for the mercy He has extended to you. Thank Him for Christ ...Read More
Sin Enters the World
The fact that death entered the world at a point in history shows that death is not part of the natural order of things as God originally made them. We were not created to die; rather, death is an invader ...Read More
Sinful Beyond Measure
Augustine of Hippo writes, "The law is given not to take away sin nor to deliver us from it but to reveal what sin is before grace comes. The result is that those who are placed under the law are ...Read More


text:
Ferrari F2005 - gearbox 20 April 2005
Innovative casing features two layers. Inner one is titanium casting, thinner but less stiff than last year's. New, outer carbon fibre layer adds lost stiffness, but has led to overheating issues, as carbon fibre is poor heat conductor. If gearbox temperatures go too high, lubricant and hydraulic fluid viscosity change, increasing stress on components. In Bahrain, Michael Schumacher retired after car refused to change gear properly due to hydraulic problems.


text:
Automated Giving
The Office of the General Assembly is pleased to offer churches and individual donors the option of using electronic transfers from checking and savings accounts as a means of monthly giving. We also offer the option to give on a one-time or renewing basis using a bank debit or credit card.
To take advantage of these online resources, click the button below.
Regardless of which method you choose, thank you for your interest in supporting the ministries of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church!
Questions? E-mail the Director of Finance.


text:
Chinese New Year
February 8, 2008 | 12:00 a.m. CST
Lilly Dailey makes a Chinese painting on Thursday in celebration of the Chinese New Year. Lilly had a little red ribbon on her wrist because in Chinese it is a tradition to wear something red on the new year.
RELATED STORIES: Chinese New Year


text:
Topic Home
Ask a question about '
Start a new discussion about '
Answer questions from other users
Full Discussion Forum
Saxicola rubetra
is a small
Bird migration
Bird migration is the regular seasonal journey undertaken by many species of birds. Bird movements include those made in response to changes in food availability, habitat or weather. Sometimes, journeys are not termed "true migration" because they are irregular or in only one direction...
A passerine is a bird of the order Passeriformes, which includes more than half of all bird species. Sometimes known as perching birds or, less accurately, as songbirds, the passerines form one of the most diverse terrestrial vertebrate orders: with over 5,000 identified species, it has roughly...
Birds are feathered, winged, bipedal, endothermic , egg-laying, vertebrate animals. Around 10,000 living species and 188 families makes them the most speciose class of tetrapod vertebrates. They inhabit ecosystems across the globe, from the Arctic to the Antarctic. Extant birds range in size from...
breeding in
Europe is, by convention, one of the world's seven continents. Comprising the westernmost peninsula of Eurasia, Europe is generally 'divided' from Asia to its east by the watershed divides of the Ural and Caucasus Mountains, the Ural River, the Caspian and Black Seas, and the waterways connecting...
and western
Asia is the world's largest and most populous continent, located primarily in the eastern and northern hemispheres. It covers 8.7% of the Earth's total surface area and with approximately 3.879 billion people, it hosts 60% of the world's current human population...
and wintering in
Africa is the world's second largest and second most populous continent, after Asia. At about 30.2 million km² including adjacent islands, it covers 6% of the Earth's total surface area and 20.4% of the total land area...
Its scientific name means "small rock-dweller", in reference to its
* Habitat , a place where a species lives and grows*Human habitat, a place where humans live, work or play** Space habitat, a space station intended as a permanent settlement...
derives from
Latin is an Italic language originally spoken in Latium and Ancient Rome. It, along with most European languages, is a descendant of the ancient Proto-Indo-European language. Although it is considered a dead language, a number of scholars and members of the Christian clergy speak it fluently, and...
("rock") +
is a Latin term for a small bird.
The Whinchat is similar in size to its relative the
European Robin
European Robin
The European Robin , most commonly known in Anglophone Europe simply as the Robin, is a small insectivorous passerine bird that was formerly classed as a member of the thrush family , but is now considered to be an Old World flycatcher...
Erithacus rubecula
), 12–14 cm long and 13–26 g weight. Both sexes have brownish upperparts mottled darker, a buff throat and breast, a pale buff to whitish belly, and a blackish tail with white bases to the outer tail feathers.
The male in breeding plumage has blackish face mask almost encircled by a strong white
The supercilium is a plumage feature found on the heads of some bird species. It is a stripe which runs from the base of the bird's beak above its eye, finishing somewhere towards the rear of the bird's head. Also known as an "eyebrow", it is distinct from the eyestripe, which is a line which runs...
Malar may refer to:* Malar, Iran, a city in Iran* Malar, Pakistan, a town in Pakistan* Malar , a deity in the Forgotten Realms campaign setting of Dungeons & Dragons* Relating to the cheek...
stripe, a bright orange-buff throat and breast, and small white wing patches on the greater coverts and inner median coverts. The female is duller overall, in particular having browner face mask, pale buffy-brown breast, and a buff supercilium and malar stripe, and smaller or no white wing patches. Males in immature and winter plumage and are similar to females, except that adult males retain the white wing patches all year.
Though fairly similar to females and immatures of the
European Stonechat
European Stonechat
The European Stonechat is a small passerine bird that was formerly classed as a subspecies of the Common Stonechat. Long considered a member of the thrush family Turdidae, genetic evidence has placed it and its relatives in the Old World flycatcher family Muscicapidae.It is 11.5–13 cm long and...
S. rubicola
, the Whinchat can readily be distinguished by its conspicuous supercilium and whiter belly, and also in western Europe, by being paler overall than the western European Stonechat subspecies
S. rubicola hibernans
. It also differs structurally in being slightly slimmer and less 'dumpy', and having longer wingtips (an adaptation to its long-distance migration). It is more easily confused with female or immature
Siberian Stonechat
Siberian Stonechat
The Siberian Stonechat or Asian Stonechat is a recently-validated species of the Old World flycatcher family . Like the other thrush-like flycatchers, it was often placed in the Turdidae in the past...
S. maura
, which (also being a long-distance migrant) shares the longer wingtips; however, Siberian Stonechat can be distinguished by its conspicuous unmarked pale orange-buff rump (in Whinchat, the rump is the same mottled brown colour as the back).
Its main call is a
, the 'tac' softer and less grating than that of the European Stonechat; the call is used both for contact between birds and predator alarms. The male has a whistling, crackly but soft song used during the breeding season, consisting of a mixture of soft whistles, tacs and more grating sounds; it is often mimetic, including phrases from the songs of at least 12 other assorted bird species. On the wintering grounds, it often gives alarm calls but only occasionally sings, particularly at the end of winter when starting spring migration.
Distribution and status
The Whinchat is a migratory species breeding in Europe and western Asia from
Ireland is an island to the northwest of continental Europe. It is the third-largest island in Europe and the twentieth-largest island on Earth...
and northern
Portugal , officially the Portuguese Republic is a country situated in southwestern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula. Portugal is the westernmost country of Europe, and is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the West and South and by Spain to the North and East. The Atlantic archipelagos of the...
east to the
Ob River
Ob River
The Ob River , also Obi, is a major river in western Siberia, Russia and is the world's seventh longest river. It is the westernmost of the three great Siberian rivers that flow into the Arctic Ocean .The Gulf of Ob is the world's longest estuary.-Names:The Ob is known to the Khanty people as the...
basin near
Novosibirsk is the third-largest city in Russia, after Moscow and Saint Petersburg, and the largest city of Siberia, with a population of 1,473,737 . It is the administrative center of Novosibirsk Oblast as well as of the Siberian Federal District...
, and from northern
Norway , officially the Kingdom of Norway, is a Nordic unitary constitutional monarchy whose territory comprises the western portion of the Scandinavian Peninsula, Jan Mayen, and the Arctic archipelago of Svalbard and Bouvet Island. Norway has a total area of and a population of about 4.9 million...
south to central
Spain , officially the Kingdom of Spain languages]] under the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages. In each of these, Spain's official name is as follows:;;;;;;), is a country and member state of the European Union located in southwestern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula...
, central
Italy , officially the Italian Republic languages]] under the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages. In each of these, Italy's official name is as follows:;;;;;;;;), is a unitary parliamentary republic in South-Central Europe. To the north it borders France, Switzerland, Austria and...
, northern
Greece , officially the Hellenic Republic , and historically Hellas or the Republic of Greece in English, is a country in southeastern Europe....
, and the
Caucasus Mountains
Caucasus Mountains
The Caucasus Mountains is a mountain system in Eurasia between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea in the Caucasus region .The Caucasus Mountains includes:* the Greater Caucasus Mountain Range and* the Lesser Caucasus Mountains....
Birds arrive on the breeding grounds between the end of April and mid May, and depart between mid August and mid September (odd birds lingering to October). They winter primarily in tropical
sub-Saharan Africa
Sub-Saharan Africa
Sub-Saharan Africa as a geographical term refers to the area of the African continent which lies south of the Sahara. A political definition of Sub-Saharan Africa, instead, covers all African countries which are fully or partially located south of the Sahara...
Senegal , officially the Republic of Senegal , is a country in western Africa. It owes its name to the Sénégal River that borders it to the east and north...
east to
Kenya , officially known as the Republic of Kenya, is a country in East Africa that lies on the equator, with the Indian Ocean to its south-east...
and south to
Zambia , officially the Republic of Zambia, is a landlocked country in Southern Africa. The neighbouring countries are the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the north, Tanzania to the north-east, Malawi to the east, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana and Namibia to the south, and Angola to the west....
, arriving in western Africa at the start of the
dry season
Dry season
The dry season is a term commonly used when describing the weather in the tropics. The weather in the tropics is dominated by the tropical rain belt, which oscillates from the northern to the southern tropics over the course of the year...
in late September to November, and leaving between February and March. Small numbers also winter in northwestern Africa in
Morocco , officially the Kingdom of Morocco , is a country located in North Africa. It has a population of more than 32 million and an area of 710,850 km², and also primarily administers the disputed region of the Western Sahara...
, northern
Algeria , officially the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria , also formally referred to as the Democratic and Popular Republic of Algeria, is a country in the Maghreb region of Northwest Africa with Algiers as its capital.In terms of land area, it is the largest country in Africa and the Arab...
Tunisia , officially the Tunisian RepublicThe long name of Tunisia in other languages used in the country is: , is the northernmost country in Africa. It is a Maghreb country and is bordered by Algeria to the west, Libya to the southeast, and the Mediterranean Sea to the north and east. Its area...
Fairly common across its wide range, the Whinchat is classified as a species of
Least Concern
Least Concern
Least Concern is an IUCN category assigned to extant taxon or lower taxa which have been evaluated but do not qualify for any other category. As such they do not qualify as threatened, Near Threatened, or Conservation Dependent...
by the IUCN. Some populations are however in serious decline, particularly in the west of its range in
Great Britain
Great Britain or Britain is an island situated to the northwest of Continental Europe. It is the ninth largest island in the world, and the largest European island, as well as the largest of the British Isles...
, Ireland,
The French Republic , The French Republic , The French Republic , (commonly known as France , is a unitary semi-presidential republic in Western Europe with several overseas territories and islands located on other continents and in the Indian, Pacific, and Atlantic oceans. Metropolitan France...
Belgium , officially the Kingdom of Belgium, is a federal state in Western Europe. It is a founding member of the European Union and hosts the EU's headquarters, and those of several other major international organisations such as NATO.Belgium is also a member of, or affiliated to, many...
, the
The Netherlands is a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, located mainly in North-West Europe and with several islands in the Caribbean. Mainland Netherlands borders the North Sea to the north and west, Belgium to the south, and Germany to the east, and shares maritime borders...
Denmark is a Scandinavian country in Northern Europe. The countries of Denmark and Greenland, as well as the Faroe Islands, constitute the Kingdom of Denmark . It is the southernmost of the Nordic countries, southwest of Sweden and south of Norway, and bordered to the south by Germany. Denmark...
, and
Germany , officially the Federal Republic of Germany , is a federal parliamentary republic in Europe. The country consists of 16 states while the capital and largest city is Berlin. Germany covers an area of 357,021 km2 and has a largely temperate seasonal climate...
, primarily due to
agricultural intensification
Intensive farming
Intensive farming or intensive agriculture is an agricultural production system characterized by the high inputs of capital, labour, or heavy usage of technologies such as pesticides and chemical fertilizers relative to land area....
. In Britain it is amber-listed with an unfavourable conservation status; it all but disappeared from former lowland breeding areas in the south and east between surveys in 1968-72 and 1988-91, remaining common only in upland areas of the north and west where low-intensity
Livestock refers to one or more domesticated animals raised in an agricultural setting to produce commodities such as food, fiber and labor. The term "livestock" as used in this article does not include poultry or farmed fish; however the inclusion of these, especially poultry, within the meaning...
rearing is the main land use.
Vagrants have reached northwest of the breeding range to
Iceland , described as the Republic of Iceland, is a Nordic and European island country in the North Atlantic Ocean, on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Iceland also refers to the main island of the country, which contains almost all the population and almost all the land area. The country has a population...
, west on migration to the
Canary Islands
Canary Islands
The Canary Islands , also known as the Canaries , is a Spanish archipelago located just off the northwest coast of mainland Africa, 100 km west of the border between Morocco and the Western Sahara. The Canaries are a Spanish autonomous community and an outermost region of the European Union...
Cape Verde
Cape Verde
The Republic of Cape Verde is an island country, spanning an archipelago of 10 islands located in the central Atlantic Ocean, 570 kilometres off the coast of Western Africa...
, and south of the wintering range to northern
South Africa
South Africa
The Republic of South Africa is a country in southern Africa. Located at the southern tip of Africa, it is divided into nine provinces, with of coastline on the Atlantic and Indian oceans...
The Whinchat favours rough low vegetation habitats such as open rough pasture or similar minimally cultivated
Grasslands are areas where the vegetation is dominated by grasses and other herbaceous plants . However, sedge and rush families can also be found. Grasslands occur naturally on all continents except Antarctica...
with scattered small shrubs such as Hawthorn (
Crataegus monogyna
), and
Bracken are several species of large, coarse ferns of the genus Pteridium. Ferns are vascular plants that have alternating generations, large plants that produce spores and small plants that produce sex cells . Brackens are in the family Dennstaedtiaceae, which are noted for their large, highly...
Pteridium aquilinum
) or Heather (
Calluna vulgaris
) stands on rock-strewn ground. They also commonly use new and clear-felled conifer
A plantation is a long artificially established forest, farm or estate, where crops are grown for sale, often in distant markets rather than for local on-site consumption...
s until the new tree crop is about 5–6 years old and a metre or two tall. It always needs at least a few perching points (shrubs, tall weeds, or fenceposts) to scan from for food and use as songposts. It nests in dense low vegetation, laying from four to seven eggs, which hatch after 11–14 days. The young leave the nest on foot 10–14 days after hatching, while still too young to fly; they then fledge at 17–19 days after hatching and remain largely dependent on the parents for up to a further two weeks after fledging. Whinchats are short-lived, typically only surviving two years, to a maximum recorded of just over five years; breeding starts when birds are a year old. Predators include
Least Weasel
The least weasel is the smallest member of the Mustelidae , native to Eurasia, North America and North Africa, though it has been introduced elsewhere. It is classed as Least Concern by the IUCN, due to its wide distribution and presumably large population...
The stoat , also known as the ermine or short-tailed weasel, is a species of Mustelid native to Eurasia and North America, distinguished from the least weasel by its larger size and longer tail with a prominent black tip...
s, and small
Bird of prey
Birds of prey are birds that hunt for food primarily on the wing, using their keen senses, especially vision. They are defined as birds that primarily hunt vertebrates, including other birds. Their talons and beaks tend to be relatively large, powerful and adapted for tearing and/or piercing flesh....
s such as the
Merlin (bird)
The Merlin is a small species of falcon from the Northern Hemisphere. A bird of prey once known colloquially as a pigeon hawk in North America, the Merlin breeds in the northern Holarctic; some migrate to subtropical and northern tropical regions in winter.-European and North American...
and nest predators such as
crows and magpies
Corvidae is a cosmopolitan family of oscine passerine birds that contains the crows, ravens, rooks, jackdaws, jays, magpies, treepies, choughs and nutcrackers. The common English names used are corvids or the crow family , and there are over 120 species...
. Nests are also lost due to agricultural operations such as
Silage is fermented, high-moisture fodder that can be fed to ruminants or used as a biofuel feedstock for anaerobic digesters. It is fermented and stored in a process called ensiling or silaging, and is usually made from grass crops, including corn , sorghum or other cereals, using the entire...
cutting (the main factor in the species' decline in western Europe) or trampling by livestock, and are sometimes parasitised by
Common Cuckoo
The Common Cuckoo is a member of the cuckoo order of birds, Cuculiformes, which includes the roadrunners, the anis and the coucals....
Whinchats are
An insectivore is a type of carnivore with a diet that consists chiefly of insects and similar small creatures. An alternate term is entomophage, which also refers to the human practice of eating insects....
, feeding largely (about 80-90%) on
Insects are a class of living creatures within the arthropods that have a chitinous exoskeleton, a three-part body , three pairs of jointed legs, compound eyes, and two antennae...
s, but also a wide range of other invertebrates including
Spiders are air-breathing arthropods that have eight legs, and chelicerae with fangs that inject venom. They are the largest order of arachnids and rank seventh in total species diversity among all other groups of organisms...
s, small
Snail is a common name applied to most of the members of the molluscan class Gastropoda that have coiled shells in the adult stage. When the word is used in its most general sense, it includes sea snails, land snails and freshwater snails. The word snail without any qualifier is however more often...
s and
The term worm refers to an obsolete taxon used by Carolus Linnaeus and Jean-Baptiste Lamarck for all non-arthropod invertebrate animals, and stems from the Old English word wyrm. Currently it is used to describe many different distantly-related animals that typically have a long cylindrical...
s. It also eats small amounts of
In broad terms, a fruit is a structure of a plant that contains its seeds.The term has different meanings dependent on context. In non-technical usage, such as food preparation, fruit normally means the fleshy seed-associated structures of certain plants that are sweet and edible in the raw state,...
such as
The blackberry is an edible fruit produced by any of several species in the Rubus genus of the Rosaceae family. The fruit is not a true berry; botanically it is termed an aggregate fruit, composed of small drupelets. The plants typically have biennial canes and perennial roots. Blackberries and...
, primarily in autumn. The birds like to perch on elevated spots such as shrubs, from where they make sallies to catch insects, mostly taken off the ground, but also flying insects. While so perched, males in particular frequently flick their tail and sometimes their wings to show the white tail and wing flashes, for display or territorial communication signals to other Whinchats.
Adult Whinchats have a single complex complete moult in late summer (late July onward) after breeding and mainly completed before southbound migration. Juveniles have a partial moult at the same time, growing new body feathering but retaining the flight feathers. All ages also have a partial moult in early spring on the wintering grounds before northbound migration.
This species represents a fairly
Basal (phylogenetics)
In phylogenetics, a basal clade is the earliest clade to branch in a larger clade; it appears at the base of a cladogram.A basal group forms an outgroup to the rest of the clade, such as in the following example:...
divergence of the genus
The genus Saxicola , the stonechats or chats, is a genus of 15 species of small passerine birds restricted to the Old World...
. It retains the supercilium found in many Muscicapidae but lost in the more derived
species such as the European Stonechat or
African Stonechat
African Stonechat
The African Stonechat is a species of the Old World flycatcher family , inhabiting sub-Saharan Africa and adjacent regions. Like the other chats, it was long assigned to the thrush family , to which the chats are convergent...
S. torquatus
As with other species of
, it was formerly considered a member of the
Thrush (bird)
The thrushes, family Turdidae, are a group of passerine birds that occur worldwide.-Characteristics:Thrushes are plump, soft-plumaged, small to medium-sized birds, inhabiting wooded areas, and often feed on the ground or eat small fruit. The smallest thrush may be the Forest Rock-thrush, at and...
family (Turdidae), but is now placed in the
Old World flycatcher
Old World flycatcher
The Old World flycatcher family Muscicapidae is a large family of small passerine birds mostly restricted to the Old World. These are mainly small arboreal insectivores, many of which, as the name implies, take their prey on the wing.-Characteristics:...
family Muscicapidae. It, and similar thrush-like Muscicapidae
In biology, a species is one of the basic units of biological classification and a taxonomic rank. A species is often defined as a group of organisms capable of interbreeding and producing fertile offspring. While in many cases this definition is adequate, more precise or differing measures are...
, are often called
Chat (bird)
Chats are a group of small Old World insectivorous birds formerly classed as members of the thrush family Turdidae, but now considered Old World flycatchers....
Very rarely, hybridisation between Whinchat and Siberian Stonechat occurs, with a case in reported Finland in 1997.


text:
The new Volvo S60, V60 and XC60 – dynamic new design and enhanced technology
· Sporty new exterior design focused on quality and attention to detail
· Paddle shifters available with certain engine derivatives
· Permanent high beam with groundbreaking technology
· New Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection technology
"We have focused on quality and attention to detail in order to give these dynamic models a major boost and sharpen their competitiveness," says Lex Kerssemakers, Senior Vice President, Product Strategy & Vehicle Line Management at Volvo Car Group. He continues: "The new Volvo S60 and XC60 are our best-selling models in several important markets, and the innovative Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid has got off to a flying start. We have been listening very carefully to our customers in order to make improvements that ensure we make these successful cars even more attractive."
Emphasised attention to detail
Scandinavian design is exemplified by beautiful, elegant shapes and sleek surfaces without the clutter and this can be seen in every aspect of Volvo design.
This elegance is evident in the redesigned interior and exterior of the new Volvo 60s range. Inside, the attention to detail, use of authentic materials - such as wood and leather - and the easy-to-use controls contribute to the in-command driving experience.
Supportive and incredibly comfortable seats have been a Volvo trademark for decades. The buyer of a new Volvo S60, V60 or XC60 can now specify a new sport seat that retains this traditional comfort whilst adding to the in-command feel of a true driver's car.
"The new sport seat has great side support all the way from the thighs to the shoulders, so the seat keeps the driver firmly in position when cornering fast. We've also made adjustments to the seat back, so it provides more legroom for passengers in the rear," says Project Director Patrik Widerstrand.
Small changes that make a big difference:
· The previously visible washer nozzles have been relocated out of sight under the bonnet.
· The radar cover has been painted gloss black, which practically makes it disappear in the grille.
· The chrome frame around the grille has been removed and the new, bigger ironmark enhances the new cars' self-confident look.
· Exciting new colours, such as Power Blue, are available across the range
The new integrated tailpipes, which can be specified with certain engine variants, are the physical and visual link to the technically advanced engines. But it's not just about beautiful design: the designers have had to cope with the fact that at operating temperature, the tailpipes have to remain perfectly in place despite the exhaust system expanding in length by up to 25mm. This is another example of true Scandinavian precision engineering.
The new Volvo S60, V60 and XC60 offer an extended wheel choice with a variety of designs that increase the personalisation possibilities for customers.
"To enhance the visual appeal of the car, customers can now specify their Volvo S60 or V60 with expressive 19-inch wheels but keep the same profile height as 18-inch wheels so they don't lose any comfort," says Patrik Widerstrand.
The new Volvo XC60 is available with 20-inch wheels while keeping the same tyre profile height and ride comfort as with 19-inch wheels.
The new Volvo S60 - powerful and elegant
"We've really increased the Volvo S60's road presence with the new front design. The more focused and determined-looking headlamps help create this new, expressive 'face'. We were thinking of a wolf's eyes when we designed them," explains Fedde Talsma, Design Director, Exterior. He adds: "We've emphasised the Volvo S60's horizontal lines at both the front and rear. Together with details such as a wider grille, daylight running lights and a new LED light guide on the tail lamps, they give the new Volvo S60 a striking, solid presence. The car has a beauty that is rooted in the natural world. The clean surfaces and contours give it a very Scandinavian feel."
Inside, there are upgrades such as new upholstery colours, new wood inlays, a new headliner, and silk metal frames around the air vents and light controls.
"The overall effect is very warm and cosy, like being in a warm Swedish house on a cold night. The colour themes correspond beautifully with the backlit white controls in the dash and elsewhere in the car," adds Lena Jiseborn, Design Director, Colour and Trim.
A fabulous host of new features and technology has enhanced the package of the Volvo S60 to a new level (refer to features list below) and has ensured that it is contemporary, advanced and a joy to drive.
The new Volvo V60 – sporty and versatile
The new Volvo V60 is the car for people who need the versatility of an estate but want the handling of a sports sedan - all in a stylish Scandinavian package. As with the new Volvo S60, the design team increased the new Volvo V60's road presence by emphasising its horizontal lines, which visually connect the car directly to the road. The new Volvo V60's silhouette is a visual reminder that this is no ordinary estate - it's a wagon with a coupé-like appearance.
The new Volvo V60 delivers a dynamic driving experience, with the same pin-sharp handling as its sister sedan, the Volvo S60.
The focal point of the new Volvo V60's versatility is its intelligent seating. The rear seats can be folded down in three 40/20/40 segments, so that the rear 430 litres of load space can be supplemented quickly and easily. Parents favour the Volvo V60's two-stage integrated booster cushions for children. With one simple movement, the booster cushions pop-up from the seat base providing a comfortable and safe ride height for children from three years and upwards.
The new features and technology built into the V60 has expanded its versatility, and the driver experience to a very competitive level – taking the V60 to be the most advanced sportswagon on the market (refer to the list of features below)
The new Volvo XC60 - in-command capability with sleek urban style
Volvo's best-selling model, the XC60, now has a more urban twist. The redesigned front features a new hood shape that emphasises its wide, confident stance.
"We've taken away any black trim so the new Volvo XC60 is now all one body colour. The new headlamps look powerful and determined, and the horizontal lines on the grille with its chrome bars further emphasise the car's width," says Fedde Talsma.
The new Volvo XC60 also benefits from interior changes. These include new wood inlays, a new headliner, textile B-pillars and silk metal frames around the air vents and light controls.
The refined Volvo XC60 has a commanding driving position supported by generous ground clearance and a class-leading chassis. The new Volvo XC60 is designed to feel every bit as nimble and agile as a standard road car.
Corner Traction Control now comes as standard in the new Volvo XC60. This torque vectoring system helps the driver avoid understeer by applying just the right amount of brake force to the inner wheels while powering the outer wheels when accelerating out of a corner.
With All Wheel Drive, the new Volvo XC60 becomes an extremely capable vehicle on any road, in any kind of weather. The optional Hill Descent Control boosts this capability by automatically controlling the car's speed when driving down steep slopes.
Add to this Volvo's advanced new features and technology and you have an aggressive competitor ready to take the SUV market by storm. (Refer to list of features below).
The new Volvo S60, V60 and XC60 will soon be available in Volvo's top-of-the-range R-Design derivative. The sporty R-Designs will arrive in South Africa around November this year. Full details will be released closer to the time.
New features and enhancements across the new Volvo 60s range
New Paddle shifters
The three-spoke steering wheels can now be equipped with paddle shifters for cars specified with automatic transmission. The paddle shifters give the enthusiastic driver an additional edge, particularly when powering round twisty roads.
New Adaptive Digital Display
Volvo's Adaptive Digital Display, which debuted in the all-new Volvo V40, is now available across the Volvo 60s range. This active TFT (Thin Film Transistor) crystal display takes the interaction between car and driver to a new dimension, always displaying the most important information in any given situation.
The driver can choose between three graphic themes:
The Elegance theme is the base mode with a traditional and calm aura.
The Eco theme features a green background illumination, with an environmentally inspired look. An Eco meter is displayed on the left. The current and accumulated fuel consumption figures are displayed - and the driver is rewarded with a green E light when eco-driving is optimal.
The Performance theme has red background illumination, creating a sporty atmosphere. In the centre, a rev counter scale replaces the speedometer displayed in the Elegance and Eco versions. Vehicle speed is shown digitally in the centre of the display. The right display includes a power meter - a gauge that informs the driver how much power is available and how much power is being used at any given time.
New Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection technology
New advanced software, including more rapid vision processing, has now made it possible to extend Volvo Cars' present detection and auto brake technology to cover certain cyclist situations as well.
The new Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection with full auto brake is equipped with an advanced sensor system that scans the area ahead. If a cyclist heading in the same direction as the car suddenly swerves out in front of the car and a collision is imminent, there is an instant warning and full braking power is applied.
The technology also detects if a pedestrian steps out into the road in front of the car. If the driver does not respond in time, the car can warn the driver and automatically activate the brakes.
New Driver Alert Control - detecting and warning tired drivers
Driver Alert Control is designed to detect and warn tired drivers. The system can also cover other situations where the driver is distracted.
Driver Alert Control consists of a camera, a number of sensors and a control unit. The camera continuously measures the distance between the car and the road lane markings. The sensors register the car's movements. The control unit stores the information and calculates whether the driver risks losing control of the vehicle.
If the risk is assessed as high, the driver is alerted via an audible signal. A text message appears in the car's information display, displaying a coffee cup symbol to advise him or her to take a break.
"As the leader in automotive safety, we have reduced the risk of being involved in an accident or being injured in one of our latest car models by around 50 percent since the year 2000. By continuously introducing new preventive and protective systems, we keep moving towards our safety vision that nobody should die or suffer serious injuries in a new Volvo car by the year 2020," says Thomas Broberg, Senior Safety Advisor at Volvo Car Group.
New Active High Beam with ground-breaking technology
The new Active High Beam Control makes journeys in the dark safer and more comfortable.
The technology eliminates the need to switch between low and high beam. Instead, Active High Beam Control makes it possible to keep the headlights on full beam continuously.
When another car approaches from the opposite direction, the system helps to prevent dazzling the oncoming driver by shading out only as much of the beam as necessary. This is done by an ingenious projector module mechanism integrated into the headlamp.
The same benefit applies to drivers in preceding cars.
New Dedicated Daytime Running Lights (DDRL)
The new DDRL's are located in the front bumper cover of all derivatives across the new Volvo 60s range. This feature consists of an LED-equipped light bar and a control module that automatically adjusts the brightness.
When DDRL is not active, the brightness is reduced to just 3%, thus acting as a front position lamp.
New Cornering Lights for better visibility
Another innovative option for driving in the dark is the low-speed Cornering Light feature. As an extension of the current Active Bending Light system, it lights up the area the driver is steering towards for safer manoeuvring. This system automatically activates the side cornering lights when reversing and can be very handy when reversing out of narrow driveways or to help illuminate the curb or other hidden objects.
New Cross Traffic Alert - covering your back
Cross Traffic Alert uses the radar sensors at the rear end of the car to alert the driver to vehicles approaching from either side when reversing out of a parking space. This is especially helpful in tight and crowded areas where the side view might be limited due to infrastructure, vegetation or other parked cars.
The function warns of traffic up to 30 metres from the car. Smaller objects like bicycles and pedestrians may also be detected, but not always and only at a shorter distance. The alert, which remains active as long as the target is present in the zone, is delivered to the driver as an audible signal and a warning in the centre screen.
New Road Sign Information - an extra "eye" on the traffic environment
Road Sign Information supports the driver by displaying road signs in the instrument display. This feature can also be combined with the Speed Alert function, which provides the driver with a visual warning in the speedometer if the speed limit is exceeded.
New Auto-dim exterior mirrors
Using chromatic glass, the mirrors automatically dim to avoid glare from other traffic, just like the inner rear-view mirror.
New, comfortable sport seat
Supportive yet comfortable seats that ensure a fresh and relaxed arrival after the longest of journeys have been a Volvo trademark for decades. Buyers can now specify a new sport seat that retains this traditional comfort and makes a perfect addition to the in-command feel of a true driver's car. It has great side support all the way from the thighs to the shoulders, and keeps the driver firmly in position when cornering fast.
New Personalised keys
The car keys across the Volvo 60s range can now be personalised even further. Each vehicle comes with two keys – each with a slightly different design to easily distinguish between the two. The two keys can each be programmed with its own instructions for seating and side mirror positions, as well as preferred Digital display theme. In other words, the vehicle will set itself to the key with which it is opened.
New Hill Start Assist
All manual derivatives across the new Volvo 60s range are now equipped with Hill Start Assist as standard. This simply makes it easier to pull off on inclines and ensures a smoother drive.
Enhanced Bluetooth with music streaming
The Bluetooth connection has been upgraded to allow not only hands-free phone conversations but also music streaming from your preferred Bluetooth-enabled portable music player. Volvo is actually the only brand to offer Bluetooth music streaming throughout the entire vehicle range. Integrated navigation with voice commands is available as an option.
Enhanced Ambient Lighting
The interior ambient lighting has been enhanced across the Volvo 60s range to provide a more elegant and luxurious feel. In the new Volvo S60, V60 and XC60 the ambient lighting, which is situated in the steering wheel, centre stack, door panel and cup holder areas now has a clean, white glow adding to the interior's unique Scandinavian style.
Enhanced Blind Spot Information System - for better visibility
Volvo's enhanced Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), which is radar-based, can now also monitor and alert the driver to rapidly approaching vehicles up to 70 m behind the car.
Enhanced City Safety - now active up to 50 km/h
Volvo's award-winning City Safety system is now active at speeds up to 50 km/h (previously 30 km/h). City Safety keeps an eye on traffic in front with the help of a laser sensor that is integrated into the top of the windscreen at the height of the rear-view mirror.
The car automatically brakes if the driver fails to react in time when the vehicle in front slows down or stops - or if the car is approaching a stationary vehicle too fast.
Adaptive Cruise Control & Distance Alert - keeping the distance
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) promotes comfortable driving by using radar to automatically maintain a set time gap to the car in front.
The driver sets the desired maximum speed and chooses a time interval to the vehicle in front. When the radar sensor detects a slower vehicle, the car's speed is automatically adapted to match the vehicle in front.
The Queue Assist function on cars with an automatic gearbox maintains the set gap all the way down to standstill, making this comfort-enhancing system extremely useful in slow-moving queues with repeated starting and stopping.
Distance Alert is a feature that helps the driver keep a safe distance to the vehicle in front. He or she chooses between five different time gaps via buttons on the steering wheel. The selected gap is shown in the speedometer display. A light in the heads-up display informs the driver if the gap to the car in front becomes too short.
World-class audio experience
The most advanced audio unit has a class D digital 5x130W amplifier, Dolby Digital in combination with Dolby Pro Logic II Surround, the latest MultEQ from Audyssey Laboratories and 12 loudspeakers.
The market-leading MultEQ technology from Audyssey Laboratories eliminates the distortion that might otherwise be caused by the passenger compartment's particular acoustic properties. The result is crisper and clearer sound for everyone in the car.
Premium Sound can play DVDs, CDs and USBs with music in MP3, AAC or WMA format as well as AVI and Video Div-X. The system also includes Bluetooth capability (A2DP).
In addition to the top-of-the-line Premium Sound Multimedia three other audio systems are available:
For hooking up other equipment such as a portable MP3 player, iPod (from Generation 3), iPod Touch or iPhone, all the audio systems now feature an AUX (Performance) or USB connection as standard. From the High Performance Multimedia level, USB also supports Video Div-X.
Optional Sensus Connected Touch - connectivity on a new level
Sensus Connected Touch is now available as an aftermarket option across the Volvo 60s range.
Sensus enables connectivity and Internet in the car and turns the 7-inch display into a state-of-the-art infrared, beam-scanned touch screen that can be used even when wearing gloves - a world first in cars and handy in winter! Connection is made either via a car-mounted 3G/4G dongle or the driver's mobile phone.
With Sensus Connected Touch, the user has access to full Internet browsing (except when driving), Internet streaming of music, Internet radio (TuneIn and Orange Live Radio) with thousands of channels from all over the world, on-line (Google) Map and Search, Embedded Connected 3D navigation, weather information, a number of native and web applications, App Store for new functions and updates as well as a Volvo service locator.
It is also possible to share a WiFi network with everyone in the car.
And it's all designed to be exceptionally user-friendly - you can find the track you want just by saying its name. The voice-activated system works on all music sources connected to the Volvo Sensus Connected Touch.
TripInfo is another great feature that can read out Wikipedia information about interesting points en-route via the audio system.
Volvo lingo explained
To put things in perspective and to help customers ensure their specific Volvo is equipped with features that perfectly compliment their lifestyle, Volvo has divided all its technology into three categories, or Innovation Brands:
Drive-E is our all-encompassing approach to sustainable driving. It's the innovative thinking behind a whole range of technologies that give you more power, more efficiency and greater driving enjoyment, while also respecting the environment.
Sensus encompasses Volvo's information, entertainment and support solutions that give you a more intuitive, innovative, integrated way to connect with your car and the world around you.
IntelliSafe is our complete approach to car safety, making your drive simpler, more enjoyable and less stressful.
At Volvo, we design our cars according to what today's drivers really care about and want – impeccable quality and design, performance, safety and connectivity. By doing so Volvo sets itself apart by offering vehicles that are uniquely designed around people. Volvo really is #MADEFORYOU.


text:
'47 Brand Women's Cincinnati Reds Scrum V-Neck Red T-Shirt
Save $12.02 (32%)
Product Information:
Have a perfect season in the '47 Brand® Women's Cincinnati Reds Scrum V-Neck T-Shirt. Proudly represent your favorite team in this comfortable tee, ideal for every game or everyday wear. Whether you are on the road or at home, make the '47 Brand® Scrum V-Neck T-Shirt your game day tradition.
- V-neck t-shirt
- Distressed, screen-printed team graphics on the front
- Soft, puckered feel
- Officially licensed by the MLB®
- Fabric: 100% cotton
- '47 Brand
Country of Origin: Peru
Web ID: 18361566


text:
quote:I had spinach and artichoke dip as my entre once. It can be done if you believe in yourself.
quote:The Face Painter (1995) Puddy: Hey, great dip. You made this? Elaine: No, it's from the store. Puddy: Oh. Hey, how come people don't have dip for dinner? Why is it only a snack, why can't it be a meal, you know? I don't understand stuff like that.
quote:As least quote the source.


text:
Monthly Archives: February 2011
Okay, want to know quickly why whitewater rafting trips in West Virginia are the best? Here you go. A quick, down and dirty, all-you-need-to-know list of the key elements of the awesomeness of our sport. Ready?
What's better on a whitewater river trip in West Virginia than taking a little time out for a sing-along? Just make sure to wait for a train to go by before you start Sing to the tune of "Sittin' On … Continue reading
Why go whitewater rafting in the spring? Isn't it cold? Especially in the mountains of West Virginia? Um, kind of. Beyond the weather (which is usually pretty good, actually) there are a ton of reasons to go rafting in the … Continue reading
Whitewater rafting in the spring. It's a lot different from rafting in the summer, especially in West Virginia. For starters, it's earlier in the year. Ha! Kidding! Obvious. You knew that one, right? Okay, here are five real reasons that … Continue reading
And now, a post from Waldo, The Blogging Horse … What's our favorite time for horseback trail rides in the New River Gorge? Feeding time! But our second favorite time, well, that would be right about now. Jeff (our ranch … Continue reading


text:
Trout Times
News of interest to the Wyoming anglerfrom various sources.
Headline News -
Campground closures- Due to pine beetle kill tree removal, several campgrounds are closed for part or all of the summer
Check the website list
US Forest Service
Aquatic Invasive Species Information
Snowpack data updates - click here
Snotel map for western US - click here (shows average snowpack at various locations)
Source http://water.usgs.gov | This map of the state of Wyoming shows streamflows in real-time relative to long-term annual average streamflows for each reported station. It is a quick graphic way to see how low current streamflows are to averages for this time of year. Map produced and provided by the USGS |
New record high for day | |
> 90th percentile | |
75th - 89th percentile | |
25th - 74th percentile | |
10th - 24th percentile | |
< 10th percentile | |
New record low for day | |
Not ranked |


text:
Class 6(66)
Iron Maiden: Somewhere in time
02/08/11 || InquisitorGeneralis
Iron Maiden is band for the people, even if they flatly refuse to play exactly what the people want in concert! Actually, that is not true. 2008's Somewhere Back in Time tour was a classic Maiden fan's wet dream. Still, people bitched about that one too. One thing that can not be denied is that Maiden today is as much of a force in the metal world as they were a quarter of a century ago when they released what I consider to be their finest album, "Somewhere in Time". No other Maiden album has found the perfect mix between classic NWOBHM and progressive elements. Fellow (now former) staffer Khlysty fells that this record's predecessor "Powerslave" was the pinnacle of the band's career, and he makes a damn fine argument to back that ass up. There was definitely was a downward slide to mainstream accessibility in Maiden's career, but it certainly came after "Somewhere in Time".
Joining me in this perennial quest are several of our forum members who I invited to chime in…and do my work for me. Discussing this masterpiece always results in pages and pages of verbal conflict, and vaginal excretion, so I figured I would let the masses speak for themselves on this one. Iron Maiden is for the people. InquisitorGeneralis is for the people. "Somewhere in Time" is my favorite Maiden record. I can say that with a clear conscious and a pure soul. It has every type of Maiden song you could hope for; progressive historical epics, fast guitar-driven rockers, and mid-paced, NWOBHM classics.
Idontneedtowriteanythinghere: Former staffer Smalley has been holding the Maiden flags, especially the "Somewhere in Time" one, high on GD for years so I will let him do most of the talking here. I'm gonna drop a quick 9.5 while you read up on what the Smallmaster has to say.
Smalley: Pit opener "Caught somewhere in time" up against "Aces high", the opener on "Powerslave", and you'll hear some obvious differences right away that are reflected throughout the whole of SiT, like "Caught" starting off with a synth-heavy intro, in contrast to the rawer, guitar-driven introduction on "Aces". Admittedly, the synths on "SiT" do date the album to the 80's more, but they also add in a necessary new spice to Maiden's sound, as does the prog-ier direction Maiden took with the songwriting here, with "Caught" letting the synths do their thang at a relatively leisurely pace for almost a full minute before the song takes off to full speed. Cool shit, and it gets even better after it speeds up, with the song taking on this enthusiastic, sprawling energy that screams it's ALIVE, an energy that never fails to get my heart a-pumpin' when I put it on. The lengthy solo section after the first chorus keeps the momentum going strong here, and while the chorus is a bit repetitive, Maiden's done that plenty of times and still made the song in particular be awesome, so no biggie here.
After that, "Wasted years" is a little less epic, but still the perfect follow-up track, with its inspiring, up-beat mood & lyrics, extremely sing-alongable chorus, and kick-ass centerpiece solo. "Sea of madness" is a bit of a study in contrasts from there, opening with some of the heaviest, most aggressive guitar work I've ever heard from Maiden, but then leading into bridge backed up by heavenly, ethereal synth playing, before heading into an incredibly energetic, soaring chorus that rivals "Wasted years"'s for infectiousness, and with an unexpectedly soft, soothing breakdown later on that absolutely must be praised.
"Heaven can wait" is a bit of a step down from those first three tracks, but only a lil' bit, as it still has a beautiful intro, some great chorus-vocal chanting, and a catchy overall energy, and speaking of beautiful synth intros, "The loneliness of the long distance runner" takes the cake, and its driving energy will get you in the mood to get off your fat anus and do a lil' sprinting of your own (at least until the inevitable heart attack kicks in and you die for Maiden, the way it should be).
"Stranger in a strange land" is the appropriate cool-down, its opening bass line never failing to get my head a-nodding, and its toned-down tempo, intimate vocals and mood, and sad, tragic lyrics creating one of Maiden's most emotional songs to date (if not the most emotional). I honestly can't think of another Maiden song I like better. At any rate, follow-up "Deja vu" goes a little overboard with the synth stuff, but its great guitar/drums synergy and overall energy level is still fucken awesome.
And, from there… well, I don't really like album closer "Alexander the great" that much; the intro is real cool, with the howling wind effects, spoken-word stuff, and the slow, gradual build-up, but once that's over, it isn't too interesting, save for a few choice parts (especially the long solo section in the second half). Not a bad song, just a step below every other song here. I know, it sucks when your album closer is a disappointment, but everything else here is good enough to give "Somewhere in time" its well-deserved 9 in songwriting. Sure, it is less aggressive than "Powerslave", as well as different from the other previous albums, but it's still awesome in a fresh, exciting way, and anyone who likes the previous shit but not "Somewhere in time" is wrong; bands gots to grow or die, after all. Hear that, Khlysty? W-r-o-n-g wrong. Good night.
Imstillhere: Yowza, so there you have it. Smalls comes out swinging and I have to agree with most of that oration. "Sea ov Madness" is my absolute favorite Maiden song and the solo/breakdown still impresses after about 10,000 listens. Same goes for the middle of "Alexander the great". "Stranger in a strange land" is a slower-tempo classic. "Heaven can wait" and "Wasted years" were clearly written with packed stadiums in mind. I don't see that as being a "sell out", I see it as a band creating music that they know will give the fans a live experience to remember. The only song I skip is "Deja vu", everything else is pure gold. Ryan, take 'er home…
Ryan Samuel: Song structure is generally great, and there are plenty of great choruses, verses, and bridges to be found all over this puppy. Still, it's probably the darkest sounding album of all their 80s material, comparatively speaking.
Imincharge: Maiden records definitely sounded best before the band started producing themselves. Harris' is no slouch behind the mixing board, but Martin Birch's production on "Somewhere in Time" is flawless. Like 10 flawless. The drums a crisp and clear but not overpowering. The much-dread heartbeat kick is not present either. As expected, Harris bass is right up there along with Dave and Adrian always top-notch guitar sound and style.
Ryan Samuel: Everything has an echo-y, chorus-y, reverb-y sound to it. It makes the album sound quite spacey, a definite first for the band. It also has the heaviest production of any of their 80s albums. There's also a layer of keyboards throughout, another first, and a neat touch.
Irongeneralis: Once you get past the synthesizer parts, which are thankfully few, you realize this is a motherfucker of a guitar album. The galloping dual lines to the title track get my little horsecock up and off the track every time I hear them. The soft intro to "The loneliness of the long distance runner" might be the best beginning to a song Maiden has ever written. Iron Maiden even rule the slower riffs pool with the spacy, slower ones on "Stranger in a strange land". Fuck me silly, that song rules. The breakdown/solo of "Alexander the great" is Tits McGee as well. I think somewhere here agrees with me…
Ryan Samuel: The soloing during the bridge of "Alexander the Great" is enough to warrant full marks. But it's Iron Maiden, so they go about providing awesome guitar work throughout the entire album. The spacey, futuristic guitar tone is really nice too.
It's time for a scoreralis: I am going with a 9.5 because I love everything about the guitars here except for some of the synths.
9.5. Besides the perm, the accent, the control freak issues, and the simony putting his kid in the direct support slot on several tours (she's a babe though, I must admit) Steve Harris is an unmatched bass player. No one has or ever will be able to replacate his style, sound, or overall impact in a band.
9.5. Bruce Bruce is on point here. I would not say this is his best ever vocal performance, but it has to be in the top three or four. "Somewhere in Time" features a still operatic Bruce in top form. Who else could carry a tune like "Heaven can wait" or "Wasted years" in front of 80,000 screaming fans? A great performance all around.
9.5. Nicko the McMonster puts forth yet another spectacular performance on "Somewhere Operation Mindcrime" and gives what I believe to be a career-defining performance. The tempo-change in the middle of "Sea of madness" is perfect, and the breakdown of "Alexander the great" shows that Nicko had (and still has) legitimate technical chops. He grooves, he thrills, the drives the pace like an Egyptian slave-master whuppin' some Hebrew ass up the sides of the pyramids. Nicko needs only one kick drum and one foot to dominate. His fills are text book excellence too. Nicko truly is one of the giants of metal drumming, even if he sometimes gets overshadowed by the other huge forces (Bruce's vox, the dual guitars, Harris' bass, etc etc) that make up Iron Maiden.
InvisibleHanderalis: Let me get this out of the way right quick, this cover is an absolutely gem, a perfect 10. Now listen to The Shadow drop some fucken science on your ass…
The Shadow: The cover for this album is actually a wonderful piece of art, which might require a special review itself, due to its richness of details consisting in many references used by Derek Riggs, which can be found also on the back-cover. So, any little thing that appears in there holds a link to something related to Maiden or the band members. From the brain in Bruce's hand, to the Icarus in the middle, or the clock ticking at 23:58, to the Aces High bar or the Club Waterloo, or better to the reference to one of the band's favorite bars in the US, Hammerjacks Night Club in Baltimore, everything has a meaning, and one can spend many hours to identify them all. Or better try an Internet site, although it seems that all of the references still aren't reveled yet. All in one, the wrap-cover is a nice time travel through Iron Maiden's history until 1986.
IaGree: Fuck yeah Hammerjacks! That place was a cesspool of drugs, vermin, metal, and loose vaginas. It still is a legend here even though it was demolished two decades ago to make a parking lot for Camden Yards baseball stadium. Instead of watching our shitty baseball team, the Orioles, stink it up I much rather would be doing coke off of a hooker's tits in Hammerjack's bathroom. Ah, a boy can dream…
10. A true classic logo and one of metal's most reliable stalwarts. it hasn't changed in thirty years, and it doesn't fucking need to.
N/A. I don't have it and no one else seemed to comment on it.
Overall and ending rant
This one is all me baby. "Somewhere in Time" has stood the test of time and remains my favorite Iron Maiden album. It's heavy, epic, melodic, interesting, and downright awesome. Every kind of Maiden track you could hope for is on here. From the blistering opening title track, to the stadium anthems "Heaven can wait" and "Wasted years", to the deep-cut classics "Alexander the great" and "Sea of madness"; it is all done perfectly. Some may think this record was Iron Maiden's turn towards a more mainstream sound. I think it is the moment where the band found the perfect balance between stadium epicness ("Wasted years" and "heaven can wait"), sci-fi and fantasy themes (the title track), and classic guitar-centered metal awesomness ("Sea of fucken madness"). I'm taking .5 points off of a perfect score because "Deja vu" and "Loneliness…" strike me as a bit of filler even though they are both damn good songs. Thanks to all who chimed in on this, sorry it took me so long to finally put it out here. Enjoy and up the irons bitches!
- Information
- Released: 1986
- Label: EMI
- Website: www.ironmaiden.com
- Band
- Bruce Dickinson: vocals
- Steve Harris: bass
- Dave Murray: guitar
- Adrian Smith: guitar
- Nicko McBrain: drums
- Tracklist
- 01. Caught Somewhere in Time
- 02. Wasted Years
- 03. Sea of Madness
- 04. Heaven Can Wait
- 05. The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner
- 06. Stranger in a Strange Land
- 07. Deja-Vu
- 08. Alexander the Great