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The A.P. reports on the North Koreans' plans to fire a missile toward Hawaii next month:
The missile, believed to be a long-range Taepodong-2 with a range of up to 4,000 miles (6,500 kilometers), would be launched from North Korea's Dongchang-ni site on the northwestern coast, said the Yomiuri daily, Japan's top-selling newspaper. The report cited an analysis by the Japanese Defense Ministry and intelligence gathered by U.S. reconnaissance satellites.
[. . .]
In Washington on Tuesday, Gen. James Cartwright, vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said it would take at least three to five years for North Korea to pose a real threat to the West Coast of the United States.
Say what? In three to five years North Korean missiles — potentially nuclear-armed ones — could threaten the U.S.? That might figure into the debate on missile defense cuts proposed by the Obama administration. Fox News reports that "Lawmakers are demanding to know why the president's proposed 2010 defense budget cuts missile defense by $1.2 billion and does not provide any funds for the European missile defense shield as Iran and North Korea defy the international community with missile testing." There's puzzlement in both parties. John McCain, Jeff Sessions, and Mark Begich have all expressed concern about Obama's steep cuts. The report adds:
The European interceptors would provide an added layer of protection to the U.S. from potential Iranian missiles. But the Pentagon is now looking at basing the interceptors onboard ships, or mobile launchers at existing U.S. army bases in Europe. But that capability won't be ready for eight years, a former missile defense official said.
A recent Congressional Budget Office report found, "None of the alternatives considered by CBO provide as much additional defense of the United States."
The Fox News report notes that perhaps the budget could change "if North Korea proceeds to develop its long-range missile capacity." Well, it seems that is happening right now. So will the Obama administration restore the cuts? Stay tuned.


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Charlotte 49ers at George Washington Colonials Basketball
Sat, Jan 26, 2013 2:00 pm
Charles E. Smith Center, Washington, DC
Sorry, this event has already taken place. Please see similar events below.
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Phillips exits as fans await statement from Bath City board
Posted: May 17, 2012|
Lee Phillips will not be part of Bath City's squad on their return to Blue Square Bet South football next term after confirming his own departure from the club.
The former Torquay and Exeter frontman remains a fans' favourite at Twerton Park despite a meagre three-goal haul in 2011-12 but has not been retained by Adie Britton as the manager prepares for life at the lower grade.
City plan to reveal which members of last season's relegated line-up will be moving on in the summer when chairman Manda Rigby makes an all-encompassing statement about the club's future plans – scheduled for this month.
But Phillips, who spent the final weeks of the campaign on loan at Eastleigh after losing his place in the side to top-scorer Sean Canham, tweeted on Friday: "Would like to wish Adie and Bath City all the best next season. Gutted I'm not staying.
"Really appreciate all the tweets from the fans. On to the next stage of football madness."
It appears highly unlikely that Phillips' fellow striker Jamie Cook will remain a part of Britton's plans for 2012-13 after registering just once in Blue Square Bet Premier last term.
And, although a long-time admirer of Canham's goalscoring prowess, the City boss may face competition for the Hereford United man's signature after he found the net 11 times in a struggling side.
With Scott Murray retiring, Britton is likely to have to build an attack from scratch next term, but was staying tight-lipped about his close-season negotiations yesterday.
Britton said: "There is an awful lot going on and we're speaking to existing players and prospective players about next season. It's a big jigsaw puzzle and we're working really hard.
"The club plans to announce which players have been retained soon but I do know that Lee put something on Twitter to say he's leaving.
"He did really well for us in his first year and made a good contribution. We thank him for that and wish him all the best for the future."
With rumours still rife that vice-chairman John Reynolds has left the club and fans eager for news of player movement, Rigby stressed yesterday that the promised statement from her board of directors would be made public as soon as possible.
She said: "It's really difficult. There are a few bits of information that we need and don't have.
"I understand people are waiting for this but it is important we get it right. We're not ready to give a definitive statement yet but that doesn't mean things aren't being done – far from it.
"Once we make the statement we will hold an AGM in the summer, where everything can be fully discussed."
Preston North End and Coventry City will be among the clubs represented when Twerton Park stages an Internet Football Association event on Sunday.
Bath City Supporters FC have contested home and away matches against their fellow fans the past two seasons and welcome three previous opponents – Coventry, Kidderminster Harriers and Oxford United – this weekend as they look to raise funds for Britton's playing budget.
City take on Oxford's fans team in the first of four matches at 9.45am, while a second side from the host club brings down the curtain on the day with a game against Redditch United at 6pm.
Admission is free and the TR Hayes Premier Lounge will be open all day, serving food and drink, with the club offering a £5 meal and pint deal.


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Today's Widow
Life, Loss and Laughter with Robin Craig
Posts by Author
Now, look what I caught!!
If you've been reading this blog or seen my live web show, http://minglemediatv.com/robincraiglive.html you know I've had an on-going critter theme working at my place for weeks. I've honed my possum-catching skills and my neighbor, Cindy, and I have become pros at releasing the "catch of the day" at the reservoir. Well, as if the […] [Read More]
Changing your surroundings
When we lose a loved one, it's difficult to handle no matter how ya slice it. When that person lived under the same roof, it's even harder because every place we look…there are reminders of our loss. When parents lose a child, they often want the child's room to remain "untouched," and I totally understand […] [Read More]
Getting rid of his things
When Danny died, I remember asking people not to move anything. I, for some unknown reason, wanted to carefully analyze where he had placed his things and I felt some kind of attachment to Danny's "stuff." I recall seeing his shoes by the front door and standing there observing the angle in which they had […] [Read More]
Comfort Zone Camp
When we lose a loved one, there seems to be an across-the-board feeling of isolation, regardless of factors such as age, gender, income level, etc. It takes time and work to move beyond the isolation, and having a safe place to discuss one's feelings is very important. I recently had the good fortune to become […] [Read More]
Indigo Sherri on possum watch
Despite my new-found possum-catching expertise, I still hear activity in my attic and I'm not sure if it's another possum or something else. The sounds I'm hearing are like those I heard when I caught the last possum, so I suspect another one (perhaps a relative) is having a blast hanging out at my place. […] [Read More]
What is grief? Well, according to Wikipedia, it's a multi-faceted response to loss, particularly to the loss of someone or something to which we have formed a bond. Although conventionally focused on the emotional response to loss, it also has physical, cognitive, behavioral, social and philosophical dimensions. If you have ever grieved, you know that […] [Read More]
Possum Posse
My widowhood adventures just keep coming and every day is a new deal. If you've been reading my blog, you know that I have had issues with critters in my attic. I caught my first possum a while back with a cage that I borrowed from a friend, and afterward, my friend came and took […] [Read More]
The sound of potential
If you have been reading my blog, you know that I promote empowerment through adversity. You also know that I am famous for saying, "Turn your lemons into lemonade." You don't have to buy a mechanically defective car on the side of the road to receive a lemon. Life is truly full of them, and […] [Read More]
Show More


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Jim Lind is a decorated US Air Force vet and a software development professional who's done it all over a 39-year career: managing and developing for commercial industries, for the military, for education systems, for space systems, you name it.
He's also been unemployed since early 2009 when the Great Recession resulted in major layoffs at his and so many other workplaces. When Jim finally found work for a contractor for Amtrak, the sequester cut that short just 10 weeks into the job.
Jim was one of eight unemployed professionals who met with U.S. Rep. David Price and Wake Tech President Stephen Scott last week to explain the human toll exacted by North Carolina's reckless changes to its unemployment insurance program, detailed by a recent Budget and Tax Center report on the issue. They also spoke about how important the programs at the community college have been for them.
"The reason I am here is to talk about who the unemployed are. Who are we really. Myths are not helpful for becoming re-employed," he said.
Jim explained that the federal extensions of unemployment at a higher weekly rate than is available now were a life saver for him, providing the most basic assistance to eat and pay some bills.
"I had to count slices of bread, eggs in the fridge, measure things in ounces, plan when to wash my clothes in order to be able to pay the rent where I was living," he said. Plus, even looking for work in today's world requires expensive tools like a cell phone, an Internet connection and computer, a car. "I don't know how cutting people off…is helpful for people finding work." Read More


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Superior Drummer 2 UPGRADE ONLY
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Upgrade from dfh Superior or dfh Superior Custom & Vintage to Superior Drummer 2.0
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The qualifying products are dfh Superior or dfh Superior Custom & Vintage.
You must have your existing product (dfh Superior or dfh Superior Custom & Vintage) registered in our database to be able to use this upgrade.
Superior Drummer 2.0 - "The New York Legacy Series"
Superior Drummer 2.0 is a complete overhaul of the original dfh Superior engine but we've made painstakingly sure to lose nothing of the sound quality, attention to detail and musicality that has made the Toontrack Music drum sampler line what it is.
Superior Drummer 2.0 has been re-developed for optimized use with e-drums with more effective use of sample layers and much improved loading times. It will include custom MIDI played by Nir Z accessed through the all new customized MIDI engine and arranger EZplayer pro, it will feature stand alone capacity through Toontrack solo. From premium UK based software developer Sonalksis Superior Drummer 2.0 has been fitted with, 5-band EQ, high and low pass filter, compressor, gate and transient designer filters.
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Hullo! Can anyone tell me what quality Artist's Loft acrylics are? the website says high quality and lightfast, but I'm fairly certain they are student-grade and would like the opinion of someone who has had personal experience with them.
Don't waste your money buying too many of them. I bought a lot because I signed up for classes through Michael's which listed Artist Loft for their required supplies. I have discovered they are worse quality than even some of the better student brands. Most are very transparent and the opaque ones tend to get lumpy even with a stay-wet palette. I live in a very dry climate but I am afraid to add too much water because of the quality.
© 2015 F+W All rights reserved.Use of this site signifies your agreement to the Terms and Privacy Policy, updated March 2007


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Ahhh. Exactly what we needed before bringing in the new year was another song referring to women as bitches. Of course it's not in the derogatory way. It's a salute to the good kind of bitch. [Insert our eye roll here]. Lil Wayne called his boys Future and Drake to assist him with the auto-tuned track that will allegedly appear on his forthcoming album I Am Not A Human Being II. Weezy's doing what we call rapsinging throughout the song. "I lost a few bad bitches, met some mo' bad bitches."
Future howls with his distinctive voice on the chorus making him the standout of the song. And Drake uses his voice for a few adlibs, including "Long as my bitches love me." Wayne's bars have seen better days. Maybe a verse from Drake would have made this song a little more bearable. But hey, we're sure the "bitches" will love it. And that's all that matters.
New Music: Lil Wayne feat. Future & Drake – "Good Kush & Alcohol (Bitches Love Me)" [Consequence Of Sound]
[Photo: Getty Images]


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The Oceanis 393 comes in two different models – two cabin or three cabin, depending on your needs – and they are both located at Hamilton Island. This Beneteau design will suit whatever your need may be!
The 2 cabin model is an ideal choice for either 1 or 2 couples – as the cabins are larger, and each have their own ensuite. The 3 cabin model is perfect for larger groups of up to six people, and also has two bathrooms on board.
The Oceanis 393's are comfortable and spacious and also come fitted with a transom BBQ, cockpit table and a well planned galley.
Please note this yacht also comes equipped with a rigid inflatable dinghy, outboard motor, transom gas BBQ, fully equipped galley, linen, snorkeling gear, CD player with AM/FM radio, and electric anchor winch.
Contact us to discuss your next Bare Boat Charter. Email Us or call our Charter Consultant direct on +61 (0) 434 214 446 - available 7 days per week!
|Price includes: Linen, blankets, towels, pillows, kitchen and bathroom basics, dinghy with outboard, snorkeling equipment, charts and books, 4 hour boat and area brief, Hamilton Island airport transfers, berth at Hamilton Island Marina for the entire duration of your charter.
Extra costs (compulsory): Marine Park Fees $21 per person per charter, fuel $175 per charter, non-refundable damage waiver $54 per day (a credit card imprint is also taken as a security deposit).
Optional Extras: Airport transfers, yacht delivery, provisioning, accommodation bookings, sleep aboard on the yacht, travel insurance, car security, sail guide/skipper, 100 Magic Miles cruising guide. Please ask your consultant for current prices.


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Water and Environmental Programs (WEP) provides loans,
grants and loan guarantees for drinking water, sanitary sewer,
solid waste and storm drainage facilities in rural areas and
cities and towns of 10,000 or less. Public bodies, non-profit
organizations and recognized Indian tribes may qualify for
assistance. WEP also makes grants to nonprofit organizations
to provide technical assistance and training to assist rural
communities with their water, wastewater, and solid waste problems.
U.S. Mexico Border Scoping Assessment Phase 1 Report
Sustainable Management for Rural and Small Systems Tools
FY 12 Annual Report
FY 13 Annual Report
Utilities Assistance
Loans and Grants for Rural Communities
Program assistance is provided in many ways, including direct or guaranteed loans, grants, technical assistance, research and educational materials. Please check the links below for more information.
To develop water and waste disposal systems in rural areas and towns with a population not in excess of 10,000. The funds are available to public bodies, non-profit corporations and Indian tribes.
To provide a loan guarantee for the construction or improvement of water and waste disposal projects serving the financially needy communities in rural areas.This purpose is achieved through bolstering the existing private credit structure through the guarantee of quality loans which will provide lasting benefits.The water and waste disposal guarantee loans are to serve a population not in excess of 10,000 in rural areas.
To assist rural communities that have experienced a significant decline in quantity or quality of drinking water due to an emergency, or in which such decline is considered imminent, to obtain or maintain adequate quantities of water that meets the standards set by the Safe Drinking Water Act. This emergency is considered an occurrence of an incident such as, but not limited to, a drought, earthquake, flood, tornado, hurricane, disease outbreak or chemical spill, leakage or seepage.
Predevelopment planning grants may be available, if needed, to assist in paying costs associated with developing a complete application for a proposed project.
To assist communities with water and wastewater systems. Qualified private non-profit organizations will receive RFP grant funds to establish a lending program for eligible entities. This grant program is to serve a rural area with a population not in excess of 10,000.
Native American Indian Tribes are eligible for most of the Utilities Programs' water and waste water loans and grants. In addition, grants, specifically designed to address Native American water and waste disposal needs are available.
In addition to the general loan and grant offerings for water and waste disposal projects, the Utilities Programs offers grants specifically designed to address the needs of Alaskan Native Villages and areas designated as Colonias.
The Utilities Programs works with private lenders to guarantee loans to borrowers for the construction of water and waste systems in rural areas. Loan guarantees can issued for up to 90% on any loss of interest and principal on a loan.
Grants are available to non-profit organizations to provide water and waste disposal-related technical assistance and/or training to rural water systems and rural areas, towns and cities with a population of 10,000 or less.
Technical Assistance Providers by State
Grants are available for private non-profit organizations to establish lending programs that provide low-cost loans to individuals living in eligible rural areas for the construction of water wells.
To evaluate current landfill conditions to determine threats to water resources. Provide technical assistance and/or training to enhance operator skills in the operation and maintenance of active landfills. Provide technical assistance and/or training to help communities reduce the solid waste stream. Provide technical assistance and/or training for operators of landfills which are closed or will be closed in the near future with the development and implementation of closure plans, future land use plans, safety and maintenance planning, and closure scheduling within permit requirements.
Regulation Citation: Terms established in service contract issued through RD Procurement.
The USDA RUS and the EPA signed a five year Memorandum of Agreement to work together to assist rural water and wastewater systems in implementing strategies and tools to achieve short and long term sustainability.
The MOA will focus on 4 distinct areas:
• Sustainability of Rural Systems Will emphasize on promoting asset management planning, water and energy efficiency practices, and other sustainable utility management practices to ensure long-term technical, managerial and financial capacity.
• System Partnerships - EPA and USDA will educate communities and utilities on the array of tools that are available through partnerships and encourage struggling water systems to explore all options that may be available to increase sustainability. These partnerships can provide opportunities to collaborate on compliance solutions, operations and maintenance activities and share costs with other nearby systems, thereby enabling to become financially sustainable.
• Water Sector Workforce EPA and USDA will work together to promote careers in the water sector to attract a new generation of water professionals to rural systems.
• Compliance of Small Rural Public Water and Wastewater Systems with Drinking Water and Clean Water Regulations EPA and USDA will partner to ensure that regulation training is provided to public water and wastewater systems in rural areas.
To view the full Memorandum of Agreement click here


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Team Competitions and Events
Window Decorating Contest
UNLV's Window Decorating Contest is a Homecoming tradition that gives students, faculty and staff the chance to show off their artistic skills and represent their Rebel Pride to earn Homecoming points! Participating groups will be assigned a window to decorate on the first floor of the student union. Judging will immediately follow.
Humans vs Zombies
Humans vs Zombies is a new event that incorporates this year's theme. This competition is for individual players, so there is no need to be on a team to participate. This game is played throughout the entire week.
Unity Festival
The Unity Festival is the new kick off to the week of celebrations for Homecoming. The event will feature three separate competitions and provide a fun and social atmosphere for all who attend. The purpose of the event is to collaborate with other groups and socialize with each other in an effort to start off Homecoming with a fun and positive way.
Rebel Variety Show
The Rebel Variety Show gives individual students and those participating in the team competition the opportunity to audition and showcase their talents to win prizes. Teams registered in the homecoming competition compete for the winner of the Rebel Variety Show. Prizes are given for best Greek organization performance, best student organization performance, most spirited performance, best individual performance, and most creative performance.
Zombie Run and Back to School Drive
The Zombie Run is an event to incorporate the Homecoming theme into a fun competition for individuals and teams. To enter the race, individuals must donate an item to the Back to School Drive. The donated supplies will be given to Cunningham Elementary School.
NPHC Yard Show
The National Pan-Hellenic Council first participated in Homecoming in 2010, being recognized as the outstanding new participant at the 2010 Rebel Variety Show for their portrayal of The Wiz. We are excited to have NPHC, the governing council for the traditionally African-American Fraternities and Sororities, participate in Homecoming Week again. The Homecoming Committee highly encourages you to attend this growing tradition to support and be amazed by the Steps and Strolls of our UNLV NPHC chapters.
Homecoming Parade
The homecoming parade is one of the oldest homecoming traditions at UNLV. Every year, students build a float related to the homecoming theme and showcase their floats at the parade. The parade is a community partnership that takes place at Town Square


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Nobody likes to pay taxes.
Robert Fernandes, of Forks Township, Pennsylvania, wants people to know exactly how much he doesn't like paying his taxes. Last week, the father of three took his wife and children – and $7,143.54 in cash – to the tax collector. He paid the township tax bill in single dollar bills. And, just to make sure that he made his point, he posted the whole thing on YouTube:
Fernandes made his public statement to protest money that he claims is being "stolen" since he does not wish to "voluntarily" pay for services that he doesn't believe he benefits his family. Specifically, Fernandes' young children (ages 1, 4 and 7) are not enrolled in a brick and mortar school in the school district: Fernandes' wife is currently homeschooling the children. He said about the tax, "We don't even use the public system, yet I am being forced to pay all this money into a public school system. I don't think that's really either fair or just or even ethical. It would be the equivalent if McDonald's McDonald's were to force vegetarians to pay for their cheeseburgers."
Well, er, McDonald's would force vegetarians to pay for cheeseburgers if they opted to show up at the restaurant and order them – even if they didn't eat them. And that's kind of what Fernandes did. These property taxes didn't sneak up on him: he moved to the district last year in search of lower property taxes. That should mean that he did a little bit of research before putting in the offer for his home – at least enough to know the tax rates. And he didn't accidentally land in Forks Township: he voluntarily moved his entire family to the township after snatching up a house at a short sale.
But that notwithstanding, Fernandes' claims that he doesn't benefit from the school district ring a bit hollow. Under Pennsylvania law, families who homeschool are still considered part of the school district where they live – in some districts, home schooled children are allowed access to the schools for extracurricular programs like art, music and sports. Even if students don't take advantage of school-related activities, they are still tied to the district: as part of Act 169 (PA's homeschooling law), parents must file an affidavit with the superintendent of the school district of residence at the beginning of the homeschooling period for evaluation purposes. Each year, parents must submit each student's portfolio of records and materials including log of instructional time, standardized test results, and annual written evaluation of educational progress (24 P.S. 1-102); this is to ensure compliance with Pennsylvania's compulsory attendance laws. In other words, even if Fernandes' children aren't physically present at a district school building, they are still under the administrative oversight of the district – and that means there is work to be done on their behalf.
Even if you don't buy the argument that Fernandes is benefiting from the direct services of the district, it's a tough argument to make that public education doesn't benefit society. In fact, one of our Founding Fathers, Thomas Jefferson, loudly championed the idea of a public school system paid for by tax dollars. Jefferson felt that a well-educated population was the key to a successful democracy, saying:
[W]herever the people are well informed they can be trusted with their own government; that whenever things get so far wrong as to attract their notice, they may be relied on to set them to rights.
And sure, it costs money to provide public education. But what is the greater cost in not providing an education? According to a study published in The New York Times, about one in every 10 young male high school dropouts is in jail or juvenile detention. Factoring in lost tax revenues (since dropouts earn less than high school graduates), welfare payments (since dropouts are more likely to depend on public benefits) and other associated costs, the estimated collective cost to taxpayers – those of us who have to make up the difference – is $292,000 over the working life of each high school dropout. By the numbers, it costs more to have an uneducated population than an educated one.
That said, if, like Fernandes, you believe that there is no benefit to you as a taxpayer from a public education system, Fernandes still got it wrong: protesting at the township level didn't make the right statement since the township doesn't make the rules or set the school budget. Their job is simply to collect the tax, as Forks Township tax collector, Anne Bennett-Morse, reminded him. Clearly, however, Fernandes was in the mood to make Bennett-Morse do her job: when she asked Fernandes if they could have the money counted at a bank, Fernandes balked, saying, "They expect me to work hard for it and other people to work hard for their money, but they can't even count it in the place that they collect it." Bennett-Morse defended her question, noting that she did not have a problem counting the bills but that she did not want to inconvenience other taxpayers. To put her burden into perspective, if she counted $1 per second, it would take her nearly two hours to count $7,143 in single bills – and that's without a break.
As for that "visual" that Fernandes so desperately wants people to have, here's a quick summary of what Bennett-Morse faced: according to the U.S. Treasury a dollar bill is .0043 inches thick and there are 490 notes to a pound, meaning that a stack of 7,143 one dollar bills would be 30.7 inches thick and weigh 14.6 pounds.
Fernandes figures that if folks understood how much they were actually paying in taxes, they would protest, too. He believes that most taxpayers don't know how much tax they're actually paying since homeowners with mortgages tend to escrow their real estate and school taxes and pay monthly; that sounds terribly patronizing. I would venture to say that most homeowners know more about the totals of their real estate and school taxes than they do about other hidden (or nearly hidden) taxes like sales taxes and excise taxes on utilities, gas and alcohol.
So what does Fernandes hope to accomplish with his statement? "I'm hoping people see this video and do the same thing: stop paying in their escrow and mortgage and start paying taxes the way I did."
By law, (Section 31 U.S.C. 5103), you certainly can do that: "United States coins and currency (including Federal reserve notes and circulating notes of Federal reserve banks and national banks) are legal tender for all debts, public charges, taxes, and dues." I suspect, however, that tax collectors everywhere wish you wouldn't.
Want more taxgirl goodness? Pick your poison: You can receive posts by email, follow me on twitter (@taxgirl) hang out with me on Facebook and check out my YouTube channel. NEW at taxgirl: you can subscribe to the podcast on the site or via iTunes (it's free).


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In marketing, the brand of a product or company is often worth more than the product itself and although mishaps occur, generally a well known brand cannot afford to have poor quality products out. So when you're buying a brand, you have a sort of guarantee that you're buying a quality product. But does this theory work the other way around as well? Does it mean that if you're buying a generic product, you'll necessarily end up with a bad one? Well, it's certainly not the case with Cialis, where generic versions of the product often manage to equal or even top the branded, original ones.
Here are a couple of important bits of information you absolutely MUST know before venturing into buying generic Cialis (or any other generic drug for that matter):
Generic Cialis usually costs around 50-70% lower than brand Cialis
It's really a matter of preference and pocket depth when choosing between brand and generic Cialis. Some people might feel safer if they buy the drug straight from a well-known, reputable and trusted brand, whereas others will want to save some cash and, knowing they're going to get the same product for a much lower price, go for a generic version of Cialis.
Since there are a lot of companies that are authorized to sell generic Cialis, you'll find that prices may vary even between them. Just make sure you look out for scammers, trying to sell you generic Cialis for brand-name prices, or simply trying to sell you low quality drugs as generic, FDA approved ones. We highly recommend that you visit Generic Pharmacy for the lowest prices and largest selection of Generic drugs, by clicking on the banner below.
We highly recommend that you visit Generic Pharmacy for the lowest prices and largest selection of Generic drugs, by clicking on the banner below.
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Click Here to Watch the Whole Video in HD at Straight Fraternity
Me and my video camera alone with a hot straight guy. Anything can happen. Horny straight guys go gay for pay.
The guys got together and jerked off until they were hard again before the next challenge was revealed. I picked a name out of a hat to see who would have to lay down and have the other guys cum on him...
Pixels: 320X240 | Bitrate: 350K
Pixels: 640X480 | Bitrate: 700K


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Visitors to Baltimore's Inner Harbor were in for a surprise earlier this week. Hundreds of blue crabs lined the shallow water between the Maryland Science Center and the Rusty Scupper restaurant, about a 150-yard distance.
Though an iconic image throughout the Harbor, blue crabs are usually more likely to be seen on a dinner plate at Phillips Restaurant than in the murky waters of the Patapsco River.
The sheer number of crabs – I estimated over 350 – led me to suspect something was up. Could it be a jubilee – an event where crabs gather near the surface and on shore to escape oxygen-deprived water?
Mike Naylor, a biologist at Maryland Department of Natural Resources (MDNR), doesn't think so. After looking at the pictures he noted that had it been a jubilee, he would have expected to see crabs breaking the surface. Instead, these crabs seemed perfectly content to stay in the water. Naylor also noted that some of the crabs were exhibiting normal mating behavior, which may be unlikely if they were stressed.
When I went back to the spot the following evening, the number of crabs had dropped significantly – probably less than 50 remained.
So what caused this unusual crab gathering? No one seems to know for sure. Dissolved oxygen readings taken about 36 hours after the event were within the normal range. But levels can change quickly. I'll be sure to post again if I get an answer as to what brought the crabs together in such large numbers.
Whatever the reason, it was a great view of nature in my urban neighborhood. And it seemed to remind those walking by that the ecosystem of the Inner Harbor is more than just its seafood restaurants and T-shirt shops.
Information on blue crabs:
Chesapeake Quarterly, Counting Crabs in Winter, Volume 5 Number 4


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Sony has got a three game deal with the developer.
Eagle-eyed blogger superannuation has unearthed evidence suggesting that elusive PlayStation Network Indie title The Unfinished Swan is still in the pipeline.
For those of you who are scratching your heads, The Unfinished Swan takes the form of a first-person painting game of sorts, and was originally unveiled back in January 2011.
Unfortunately, news of the game quickly dropped off the radar, leading to speculation that the project had been shelved. However, this is apparently not the case at all.
Writing on Twitter, the game's developer, Giant Sparrow, commented: "The Unfinished Swan is still happening. Check your radar in the next few weeks for some big news."
That was posted roughly two weeks ago, so hopefully we'll hear something on the game very soon. Stay tuned to PSU.com for more details.
Last edited by GribbleGrunger; 04-29-2012 at 06:11 PM.
Sony has got a three game deal with the developer.
trailer for those who don't like to click links.
that's a great news
psn needs interesting things like this
and looking at 'that game company'
i am already thinking about their third game
maybe they will grow with sony just like TGC.
andMove will also play a key part of the game.
GameTrailers.Experimental Discovery Interview HD
Eurogamer.Sony unveils PSN exclusive The Unfinished Swan with debut trailer
By Wesley Yin-Poole
Sony has unveiled PlayStation Network exclusive The Unfinished Swan, from indie developer Giant Sparrow.
The Unfinished Swan is a first-person painting game that sees the player chuck black balls of paint onto white surfaces to reveal the environment. You play a boy names Monroe who's chasing a swan that stepped out of a painting and into a "surreal, unfinished world".
Sony has signed Giant Sparrow in a deal creative director Ian Dallas likened to the now complete deal thatgamecompany signed with the PlayStation 3 maker to create PSN games Flow, Flower and Journey.
"Sony calls it an incubation deal'," he said. "In addition to giving us funding they also provide office space, equipment and advice." They've even got the help of a graphics programmer from Sony Santa Monica's God of War team. "The best part is that we get to focus all of our energies on just making a game."
Dallas said the game evokes a "sense of wonder" as players spray paint everywhere. "Our goal is to give players strange and beautiful experiences they've never had before. We want to give people genuine surprises and then keep on surprising them the whole game.
"The painting a white world stuff is actually just the first 15 minutes. After that, things get really weird."
You'll be able to play The Unfinished Swan with a DualShock controller, a PS Move, and a PS Move plus Navigation Controller combo.
Last edited by KRA; 05-02-2012 at 02:16 PM.
Originally Posted by GribbleGrunger
Very interesting...More games that work well with Move are always welcome...
Had the religion of Christianity been preserved according to the ordinances of the Founder, the state and commonwealth of Christendom would have been far more united and happy than they are. Nor can there be a greater proof of its decadence than the fact that the nearer people are to the Church, the head of their religion, the less religious are they.
"By their Fruits, you will recognize them..."
Don't you just love PSN
Originally Posted by GribbleGrunger
Releases the 16th for PS+ members and 23rd for everyone else
Sweet! Been waiting ages for this.
Looks like another good one for PSN
https://twitter.com/JustegardeJustin Fassino @Justegarde
I'm fairly certain The Unfinished Swan is the ____ game I've played this year. (Hint: the blank is the opposite of "worst")
@BritanniJohnson Yeah. Unbelievably well-realized game world with an amazing artistic sense. Like on a level with Portal and Flower. #sogood
http://www.ign.com/articles/2012/10/...ed-swan-reviewUnfinished Swan is comfort food on the PSN. It's not long or all that challenging, but it's most definitely magical.
9/10: http://www.thesixthaxis.com/2012/10/...d-swan-review/
9/10: http://www.computerandvideogames.com...-craft-review/
10/10 : http://nextgengamingblog.com/blog/th...d-swan-review/
10/10 : http://www.pushsquare.com/reviews/psn/unfinished_swan
9/10: http://www.godisageek.com/2012/10/un...d-swan-review/
8.2/10: http://translate.google.com.au/trans...an-psn%2F15923
GREAT! :http://www.theaveragegamer.com/2012/...an-review-ps3/
EXCELLENT!: http://www.shopto.net/news/40981/The...ed-Swan-Review
9/10: http://uk.ign.com/articles/2012/10/1...ed-swan-review
Wow, it seems like they did it again with a great indie title. Is there / will there be a demo?
Braid and Limbo have great reviews, but both are overrated IMO. I'm sure this one is good, but I'd rather have the chance to play a demo.
yeah, I thought Braid had fantastic music, and some interesting themes, but it wasn't the break-through, must-have indy game the reviews would have you believe, never played Limbo passed the demo however, been meaning to play-through it one day.
Journey, Super Stardust, EveryDay Shooter, and Pixel Junk games are still my favorite indy titles this gen, we'll see if Unfinished Swan can live up to the hype, I'll pick it up..
Had the religion of Christianity been preserved according to the ordinances of the Founder, the state and commonwealth of Christendom would have been far more united and happy than they are. Nor can there be a greater proof of its decadence than the fact that the nearer people are to the Church, the head of their religion, the less religious are they.
"By their Fruits, you will recognize them..."
Now that I think of it, I should be getting $20 back come November since I should be spending a little over $100 this month, so I guess I can give this some "free" love
When is the release date of this jewel ? I can't beleive I didn't really noticed it this last few month. Now I just can't wait for it.
BTW PSN is amasing, I still have to buy tokyo jungle for my kids.
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At first glance, this doesn't seem like a huge book, and the table of contents supplied by Springer doesn't really change this impression. So let's start by clarifying that. Though it does not seem much larger in the hand than your average "Universitext", this book actually has almost 550 pages. (It must be something about the paper.) It is, in fact, a massive introduction to complex analysis, covering a very wide range of topics.
The book is a translation of Funktionentheorie I, based on the fourth edition (Springer, 2005). (There is no indication of what might be in the second volume, nor any hint that a translation of that might be in the works.) The first 175 pages contain an account of the basic ideas of complex analysis: the complex plane, the Cauchy-Riemann equations, line integrals, the Cauchy Integral Theorem and Formula, uniform approximation results, analytic functions as power series, mapping properties, singularities, Laurent series, residues. This is the material that I like to cover in an undergraduate course.
The rest of the book, however, is less standard… and for that very reason much more interesting. Chapter IV considers ways of constructing nontrivial examples of analytic functions. It begins with the Gamma function, then considers Weierstrass product representations, the Mittag-Leffler representation using partial fractions, and the Riemann Mapping Theorem. Then come chapters on Elliptic Functions, Elliptic Modular Forms (including some material on theta functions), and applications to Analytic Number Theory. As a number theorist who has done work on modular forms and related subjects, this, of course, warms my heart. It also seems, to my eyes, to offer a good example of the power of the material just developed. Spending 300 pages on elliptic functions, modular forms, and analytic number theory may, however, strike some readers as a little too much in an introductory book.
The exposition is terse, but clear. Theorems and proofs are clearly delimited, which many students find helpful. There is little hand-holding, however, so the book may be difficult for all but the best undergraduates. There are problems at the end of each section, and sketches of solutions are given in chapter VIII. These are the sort of answer one might get from a professor if one asks how to do a problem. One solution, for example, just says "See Proposition I.1.7"; another says "Start with the double sum... [long formula]... and split it into 4 double sums, which can then be written as products of simpler sums." Thus, the fact that solutions are included in the book need not mean that the book's problems cannot be assigned for credit.
One gripe: the book follows the German tradition of using small caps whenever it refers to a mathematician or author. I find this very distracting.
Overall, this is quite an attractive book. It makes high demands on the reader's "mathematical maturity", but it does deliver the goods.
Fernando Q. Gouvêa is professor of mathematics at Colby College in Waterville, ME.
Differential Calculus in the Complex Plane C
Integral Calculus in the Complex Plane
Sequences and Series of Analytic Functions, the Residue Theorem
Construction of Analytic Functions
Elliptic Functions
Elliptic Modular Forms
Analytic Number Theory
Solutions to the Exercises


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US Visa
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Type 2 diabetes, also known as adult-onset diabetes, occurs in epidemic proportions in the West and is also becoming a huge problem in other parts of the world that have adopted our Western diet.
The diabetes epidemic is expected to add a huge burden to the cost of health care in the United States, so anything that helps curb the incidence of diabetes is of great interest to health care professionals and the public these days. A recent study suggests that turmeric, the spice used in Indian curries, may help to prevent diabetes.
In this study from the American Diabetic Association, 240 people with pre-diabetes (mildly elevated blood sugar) were randomized to receive either 1,500 mg of curcumin every day in divided doses or a placebo for nine months.
Curcumin is felt to be the primary active ingredient in turmeric. At the end of the study, none of the people who was taking the curcumin capsules had developed diabetes, compared with more than 16 percent of those taking the placebo pills. The cells of the pancreas, which produce insulin, were also healthier at the completion of the study.
Turmeric has been used in Ayurveda, the traditional health system of India, for thousands of years. It seems to reduce inflammation and has traditionally been used to treat arthritis and digestive ailments. It has also been studied for numerous other medical conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis and cancer.
The curcumin in turmeric is not absorbed well when taken on an empty stomach. Black pepper, also known as piperine, inhibits the breakdown of curcumin; when curcumin is taken with both black pepper as well as fat, absorption is significantly increased. Some curcumin supplements are formulated with pepper so you don't have to take them separately. If you are taking curcumin for heartburn, however, it might be best to take it on an empty stomach so it stays in the gut.
Curcumin supplements are generally well tolerated, but can cause gastrointestinal upset, especially if taken in high doses. They may also interfere with blood clotting, so they should be used with caution in anyone taking blood thinners; they should also be discontinued prior to surgery.
Turmeric can also stimulate the gallbladder, so it should be avoided by those with gall- stones. Safety has not been established for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or for children, so it should be avoided in these groups, too.
Finally, some turmeric products in the past have been contaminated with lead. To obtain reliable information on safe and effective dietary supplements, consider subscribing to ConsumerLab.com; a one-year subscription is $33.


text:
- Attorney General Brad D. Schimel
- Fighting Crime
- Victim Assistance
- Consumer Protection
- Media Center
- About Department of Justice
- Topical Index
This Google™ translation feature is provided for informational purposes only.
The Office of the Attorney General is unable to guarantee the accuracy of this translation and is therefore not liable for any inaccurate information resulting from the translation application tool.
Please consult with a translator for accuracy if you are relying on the translation or are using this site for official business.Contact the Department of Justice
MADISON Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen announced today that the Wisconsin Department of Justice filed a motion seeking to reverse judgment and have the court enter one in its favor because there was insufficient evidence of liability in the case of Reggie Townsend vs. Jerry Allen.
In addition, the state is arguing that the damages awarded were excessive. In the alternative, the state asks for a new trial.


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Wayland-Cohocton (V) 7 Falconer (VI) 6
The Wayland-Cohocton girls are going to the final four in Glens Falls on Saturday (June 8th)! The maroon & gold turned around and went back to Brockport State for the second day in a row on Tuesday (June 4) where they rallied from behind again and this time the stakes were higher with the semis & state finals on the line. After coming back against Batavia on Monday, coach Dave Stewart's team turned the trick again on the Section VI squad from Falconer. As history would repeat itself, Way-Coh went down 3-0 on one swing of the bat as one of the Section VI sluggers put one out of the yard with two mates aboard in the top of the 4th. The Eagles partially responded by getting one run back in the bottom half of the inning. Ashlee Schumacher reached on an error and then consecutive hits by Hannah McKelvey and Mikaela Nielsen would bring Way-Coh's first run home. The locals would grab the lead in the game as Wayland-Cohocton would play long ball themselves. Taylor Welytok & Jesse Hammers each singled to start the bottom of the 5th. MacKenzie Weber got a hold of one and sent it out of the park putting Wayland-Cohocton in front 4-3 ! Dave Stewart's squad added to their lead in the 6th by scoring three more times. Alyssa Recktenwald singled & then Taylor Welytok followed with a two-bagger. Jesse Hammers singled to load the bases up. MacKenzie Weber stroked a 2-run double putting runners at second and third. The birds then utilized their speed. As the catcher flipped the ball back to the pitcher and turned to walk back behind the plate putting her mask on, Jesse Hammers sprinted toward the plate and stole home for what would eventually stand up as the game winning run. Falconer scored three times in the top of the 7th and left the lead runners on board when Wayland-Cohocton would finally record the final out in a close call 7-6.
MacKenzie Weber notched the win with 7 strong innings giving up 6 runs, 5 earned, on 10 hits, while striking out 5 and walking 1. Offensively Wayland-Cohocton (21-4) pounded out 14 hits against Section VI hurlers. Jesse Hammers was 3-4 scoring 2 runs and stole home. MacKenzie Weber was 2-4 with a double, a homer, 5 rbis and scored a run. Taylor Welytok 2-4 with a double and scored twice. Hannah McKelvey 2-4 with a double. Mikaela Nielsen was 2-3 with an rbi. Alyssa Recktenwald 1-3 with a run score. Ashlee Schumacher 1-4 and scored once, and Bri Sick went 1-3 in the victory.
Wayland-Cohocton battles either Solvay or Windsor in the Class "B" Semi-Finals in Glens Falls on Saturday (June 8) morning. Should they win that game, the Eagles would head into the State Finals later that day. Good Luck Golden Eaglettes!


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In astrophysics, a polytrope refers to a solution of the Lane–Emden equation in which the pressure depends upon the density in the form
where P is pressure, ρ is density and K is a constant. The constant n is known as the polytropic index. This relation need not be interpreted as an equation of state, although a gas following such an equation of state does produce a polytropic solution to the Lane–Emden equation. Rather, this is simply a relation that expresses an assumption about the change of pressure with radius in terms of the change of density with radius, yielding a solution to the Lane–Emden equation.
Sometimes the word polytrope may be used to refer to an equation of state that looks similar to the thermodynamic relation above, although this is potentially confusing and is to be avoided. It is preferable to refer to the fluid itself (as opposed to the solution of the Lane–Emden equation) as a polytropic fluid. The equation of state of a polytropic fluid is general enough that such idealized fluids find wide use outside of the limited problem of polytropes.
Example models by polytropic index[edit]
- Neutron stars are well modeled by polytropes with index about in the range between n = 0.5 and n = 1.
- A polytrope with index n = 1.5 is a good model for fully convective star cores (like those of red giants), brown dwarfs, giant gaseous planets (like Jupiter), or even for rocky planets.
- Main sequence stars like our Sun and relativistic degenerate cores like those of white dwarfs are usually modeled by a polytrope with index n = 3, corresponding to the Eddington standard model of stellar structure.
- A polytrope with index n = 5 has an infinite radius. It corresponds to the simplest plausible model of a self-consistent stellar system, first studied by A. Schuster in 1883.
- A polytrope with index n = ∞ corresponds to what is called an isothermal sphere, that is an isothermal self-gravitating sphere of gas, whose structure is identical to the structure of a collisionless system of stars like a globular cluster.
In general as the polytropic index increases, the density distribution is more heavily weighted toward the center (r = 0) of the body.
- Chandrasekhar, S. [ 1939 ] ( 1958 ). An Introduction to the Study of Stellar Structure, New York : Dover. ISBN 0-486-60413-6
- Hansen, C.J., Kawaler S.D. & Trimble V. ( 2004 ). Stellar Interiors - Physical Principles, Structure, and Evolution, New York : Springer. ISBN 0-387-20089-4
- Horedt, G.P. ( 2004 ). Polytropes. Applications in Astrophysics and Related Fields, Dordrecht : Kluwer. ISBN 1-4020-2350-2


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2010 BMW X6Change
2010 BMW X6 Expert Review:Autoblog
BMW's pitch on how great the X6 ActiveHybrid is goes like this: it's the world's most powerful hybrid vehicle, fuel consumption is reduced about 20 percent compared to a similar vehicle without a hybrid drivetrain, and no matter what speed you're going, the incredibly complicated powertrain is performing at the most efficient level possible. All of this power means that the X6 hybrid is no sluggish Toyota Prius, offering frugal but unexciting performance. On the other hand, the size and weight of BMW's luxury hybrid crossover means that, well, the X6 hybrid is no Prius in the mileage department, either.
Let's start by congratulating BMW for bringing its first batch of hybrids to market (the 7 Series ActiveHybrid is launching alongside the X6). In everyday traffic, the hybrid system helps keep fuel consumption down – to a still-lame 18 mpg combined (estimated) – and, since the engine can shut down at stops, the ultra-quiet interior made sitting in Miami traffic during our preview drive almost a pleasure. Nevertheless, there's still a lot of vehicle here that hampers any attempt at real fuel efficiency gains. The X6 ActiveHybrid weighs 5,688 pounds for crying out loud – 400 pounds more than the non-hybrid. This vehicle simply doesn't makes a lot of sense for anyone actually interested in fuel efficiency. Who does it make sense for? Follow us past the break as we try to find out.
Photos copyright ©2009 Sebastian Blanco / Weblogs, Inc.
The ActiveHybrid powertrain in the X6 is a complex animal, being that it's made up of a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine, two electric motors (one that puts out 91 hp and a smaller brother that manages 86 hp), three planetary gearsets and a 2.4 kWh NiMH battery pack. All that machinery manages to produce 357 kW (485 horsepower) and 780 Nm (575 pound-feet) of torque. This is what BMW has created out of the two-mode hybrid system that the Bavarians co-developed with General Motors and Mercedes (think Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid and Mercedes-Benz ML450 Hybrid). BMW claims its hybrid SUV can achieve fuel efficiency of up to 9.9 l/100 km (about 24 mpg U.S.) on the European drive cycle, but during our a few hours in the 2010 BMW X6 ActiveHybrid Sports Activity Coupe, we averaged just 14.8 liters (16 mpg U.S.).
On the way to 16 mpg, the X6 ActiveHybrid performs like one expects a BMW to. It wasn't possible to test the handling much on the straight and clogged streets of southern Florida, but the CUV had plenty of punch for entering highways – the 0-to-60 mph time is a quick 5.4 seconds – and keeping up with traffic was a doddle. Power, be it electric or gasoline-fueled, was readily available whenever we touched the accelerator pedal. As much as the drivetrain offered, we didn't get anywhere near the vehicle's electronically limited top speed of 130 mph due to traffic. The good news is that there's no need to go fast to enjoy the drive: at any speed, the X6 offers a comfortable cruise, with bumps and other annoyances passed over with ease. Also, the X6 ActiveHybrid's electrical steering feels about as good as any hydraulic system ever has - at least in these non-challenging circumstances.
For all the work that BMW engineers did to make the X6 ActiveHybrid burn less fuel, they haven't chosen to apply some of those same easy tricks across the X6 lineup. For proof, take a look at those special aerodynamic wheels that are available only on the gasoline-electric version of the X6. While they do reduce emissions by 0.1 grams of CO2 per kilometer, don't try to order them for your standard X6. The reason? BMW wants to give its first hybrid in the U.S. a distinctive look and those special wheels are one way the driver can make a statement. All is not lost, though, and BMW told us that making the aero wheels an option on the standard X6 is "in discussion."
Of course, the real efficiency gains come from the battery, not the wheels. The liquid-cooled 2.4 kWh NiMH battery pack sits between and above the rear wheels, offering the powertrain 1.4 kWh of its total power. The part-electric set-up gives the X6 four operating modes: eDrive, eBoost, Charge and Drive. eDrive is the most efficient and uses nothing but electrons to attain up to 37 mph for up to 1.6 miles. It's not a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), but it works great in parking lots and during stop-and-go traffic like we experienced in Miami. eDrive doesn't help drivers who like to engage the manual shifter, however, as it's available only when the transmission is in D, not in manual shift mode. eBoost, on the other hand, uses the two electric motors to boost the internal combustion engine's performance when needed and is the reason this beast never feels sluggish. 'Charge' mode means the regenerative brakes are capturing energy that would normally be lost from the discs, and finally, 'Drive' just means the X6 is using nothing but the V8 to move forward.
The good news is that the complicated transmission of power goes completely unnoticed, showing that BMW's engineers have done a tremendous job of blending the vehicle's electric and gasoline-fed powerplants. Shifts are wonderfully smooth and the switch from electric to hybrid to pure gasoline drive just happens. You can hear the changes if you pay close attention – and there is an analog display under the speedometer showing the battery's state of charge and whether or not it is charging up – but the best way to tell what is happening under the hood is to have the drive mode displayed on the iDrive's info screen.
Even though there are two different brake systems on the X6 ActiveHybrid, don't look to the brake pedal to reveal which is engaging. The brake pedal is decoupled from the actual brake system and uses simulated feedback to tell the driver what is happening. Most of the time (up to 0.3 Gs), only the electric motors are used to brake the X6 ActiveHybrid. In other situations (read: emergency or sudden stop), the standard friction brakes kick in. The decoupled simulation is meant to make sure the driver experiences the same feeling at all times, and it easily passes for the real thing. Because the regenerative brake system in the X6 uses both electric motors, it is able to capture about 25 times more energy than the company's other regen systems. This isn't as big a deal as it sounds, since BMW's Brake Energy Regeneration is fairly wimpy. The two 60 kW motors are theoretically capable of capturing up to 120 kW of energy, but the battery can only handle 57 kW.
The X6's design has its fans and detractors, but the Kammback shape does help the X6 stand out – for now. We can deal with the hood hump – excuse us, PowerDome – and the tall rear end most of the time, but from inside, the design is troubling. Backing-up is terrible, and the rearview mirror only serves to make the back of the car look like it's a million miles away. Luckily, BMW has installed an almost-magical back-up camera system, which, like Infiniti's Around View Monitor, uses cameras built into the rear end and under the side mirrors of the X6. When driving backwards, an image appears on the navigation screen that looks like a camera is floating above the car and showing the close surroundings. Using this screen and the curved side mirrors, it's possible to back out of a garage or parking spot safely. Trying to do so just by turning your head? Not so much.
While we're still waiting for the EPA's official figures, BMW expects the X6 ActiveHybrid will to achieve 17 mpg in the city, 19 on the highway and 18 combined. That's better (except on the highway) than what the best non-hybrid X6 can muster: 15/21/17 for the 2010 X6 xDrive35i. A better comparison for the X6 ActiveHybrid is to the X6 xDrive50i, which also has a V8 engine and gets 13/18/15. The X6 ActiveHybrid goes on sale in the U.S. next month and will be built in Spartanburg, South Carolina. The starting price is $89,775 (including an $875 destination and delivery charge), which would make it even more expensive than the 555-hp X6 M.
In the end, we're not sure who will want the X6 ActiveHybrid. Most likely they'll be people who own an aging BMW X5 and want something new with more power and no penalty at the pump (at least compared to the rest of the X6 lineup). If past popularity of big BMWs is any indication, there is certainly a market for the X6 ActiveHybrid. Today, about 20 percent of BMW sales are X models. Introduced in 1999, the X5 was the brand's first SUV and remains the most popular, with 911,000 sales. The X3 has sold 554,000 and the X6, introduced just last year, has already sold 57,000 units.
We need more time with this big hybrid crossover to be sure, but based on our short drive, the BMW X6 ActiveHybrid will probably not find itself on our shopping list. All that extra hardware (and weight) and what we expect will be the highest price of any X6 model is balanced only by a marginal gain in MPGs. For us, although it's a laudable technological achievement, the value just doesn't add up.
Photos copyright ©2009 Sebastian Blanco / Weblogs, Inc.
New Car Test Drive
New high-performance M joins lineup.
The BMW X6 blurs the line between car and SUV and for this reason is known as a crossover. The X6 is much more car than sport-utility. We think of it as a high-riding car, a four-passenger, four-door coupe, a combination sports car and SUV. We call it a coupe-like SUV thing. Or an SUV-like coupe thing. BMW calls the X6 a Sports Activity Coupe.
For 2010, the BMW X6 M joins the lineup, which includes the X6 xDrive35i and X6 xDrive50i models. M is easier to remember, but the other models are nice to drive and there's no need to cite these model designation.
The new BMW X6 M uses a more powerful version of the 4.4-liter V8 from the xDrive50i model tuned to a whopping 555 horsepower. X6 M comes standard with BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system, stiffer suspension, sport seats, and various exterior cues that show this vehicle means business, and that its business is performance.
All BMW X6 engines are twin-turbocharged with inline-6 or V8 power, and all provide ample power for everyday use and even for towing. The V8s make the X6 a hot rod, but we recommend the inline-6 because it has plenty of pep and is more fuel efficient. Shifter paddles on the steering wheel add to the sporty character of the X6.
We found the X6 handles well on the road and on the track. It's better than any SUV but not as good as BMW's own sporty coupes and sport roadsters. It corners with little body lean, but the stiff suspension makes the ride somewhat harsh, especially with the Sport Package and optional 20-inch wheels. The new X6 M handles and stops even better.
Inside, the ambience is upscale, with lots of leather and soft-touch surfaces. BMW's iDrive control system is standard. Now in its fourth generation, iDrive can still complicate some interior controls but this version is easier to use and more intuitive. It also features programmable buttons to provide one-touch control of some of your favorite functions.
Front-seat passengers have plenty of room. Drivers of the M are hugged by thickly bolstered sport seats. M drivers also get a sporty M steering wheel and unique gauges. In all models, visibility to the rear is restricted by a small, flat rear window. Two rear-seat occupants should be comfortable, provided they're not tall.
The rear hatch lifts up and the rear seat folds down to give the X6 a nice amount of cargo storage space. It's on par with other hatchbacks but isn't as good as an SUV. Also, the liftover is higher, so you'll have to lift cargo higher when loading.
The X6 defies categorization. It rides high, so it doesn't handle as well as a sport coupe, and it doesn't have the cargo and people carrying capacity of an SUV. Overall, it's a fine vehicle. Pricing is high, especially for the 50i and M models. We recommend the six-cylinder 35i model.
New for the 2010 X6 are some equipment upgrades and changes in the packaging. A power tailgate and HD radio are now standard, and automatic high beam headlights are offered as a stand-alone option. The rear-view camera adds a Top View feature and X6s with iDrive get the fourth generation of the system, which includes an 8.8-inch screen and an 80-gigabyte hard-drive to hold navigation information and music files.
Coming in fall 2010 is the X6 ActiveHybrid. The hybrid will be powered by the same twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 from the xDrive 50i, a nickel-metal hydride battery pack, and two electric motors inside a dual-mode hybrid transmission. The transmission, which was developed with GM, Chrysler and Mercedes, uses three planetary gearsets and four multi-plate clutches; BMW calls it a seven-speed automatic. BMW says the X6 ActiveHybrid can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds and it will get about 24 mpg.
The 2010 BMW X6 is offered in three models, all with xDrive all-wheel drive. The X6 xDrive35i uses BMW's twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 that makes 300 horsepower. It is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that can be controlled manually via the shifter or a pair of steering wheel paddles. xDrive lacks low-range gearing and is generally meant for street use but the X6 does have some off-road capability.
The X6 xDrive35i ($55,900) comes with leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, power tilt/telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, cruise control with brake function to maintain the set speed down hills, 10-way power-adjustable front seats, interior air filter, 60/40 split folding rear seat, power mirrors with tilt-down back-up aid, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, power sunroof, six-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 stereo, auxiliary input jack, outside-temperature indicator, rain-sensing variable-intermittent wipers with heated washer nozzles, rear cargo shade, bi-xenon adaptive automatic headlights, theft-deterrent system, front cornering lights, fog lights, and P255/50R19 run-flat tires on alloy wheels.
The X6 xDrive50i ($66,650) has a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine that produces 407 horsepower. It uses the same six-speed automatic and comes with xDrive. To all of the xDrive35i's conveniences it adds 20-way power multi-contour front seats, and a hard-drive-based navigation system with voice activation and real-time traffic information.
The X6 M ($88,900) uses a 555-horsepower version of the 4.4-liter V8 and the same six-speed automatic transmission. It also features M sport seats, an M steering wheel, the M Drive control system, 12-speaker audio, self-leveling air suspension, sport suspension, larger brakes, and P275/40R20 front and P315/35R20 rear tires.
Option packages: A ventilated seat package ($1,100) for the xDrive50i adds front ventilated seats and an active driver's seat that subtly changes the contours of its left and right halves periodically to reduce body fatigue. The same package for the xDrive35i ($2,100) also has 20-way adjustable multi-contour seats. A Cold Weather package ($1,250) has a heated steering wheel, heated front and rear seats, retractable headlight washers, and a ski bag for the rear seat pass-through. A Premium package ($2,200) now adds a power rear liftgate, plus a universal garage door opener, auto-dimming rearview mirror, power folding and auto-dimming exterior mirrors, four-way power adjustable lumbar support for the front seats, a digital compass for the rearview mirror, ambient lighting, a rear storage system, a Bluetooth cell phone link, and BMW Assist emergency and concierge service. The Premium Sound package ($2,000) has a 600-watt audio system with 16 speakers and two subwoofers, digital equalizing for each seating position, a 6-disc CD/DVD changer, and an iPod and USB adapter. The Rear Climate package ($900) includes rear side window shades, four-zone automatic climate control, and privacy glass. A Technology package for the xDrive35i ($2,000) adds a rearview camera and the navigation system.
A Sport package is offered for each model. Three versions are offered for the xDrive35i. The basic Sport package ($3,700) comes with P255/50R19 all-season run-flat tires on light alloy wheels, BMW's Adaptive Drive with Active Roll Stabilization and Electronic Damping Control, 10-way power adjustable front sport seats, Shadowline exterior side window trim, and an anthracite headliner. P275/40R20 front and P315/35R20 rear run-flat performance tires ($950) can be added to the package, as can BMW's 20-way adjustable multi-contour seats ($1,200). The xDrive50i has sport, multi-contour seats standard, but otherwise the Sport package ($3,200) items are the same.
Additional options: rear DVD entertainment ($1,700), BMW's Active Steering ($1,500-1,550), BMW's Comfort Access keyless entry and starting ($1,000), soft-close automatic doors ($600), running boards ($300), a rearview camera ($400), heated front seats ($500), multi-contour front seats ($1,200), heated rear seats ($350), a navigation system ($1,900), a head-up display ($1,200), BMW Assist with Bluetooth ($750), HD radio ($350), Sirius satellite radio ($595), space-saver spare tire ($150), and upgraded Nappa leather ($2,400). This last now includes a leather-covered instrument panel, which is also available as a stand-alone ($1,900).
Safety features include dual front airbags; front side-impact airbags; curtain side airbags with rollover deployment; tire-pressure monitor; front and rear park assist; traction control; electronic stability control with cornering brake control and Trailer Sway Control; Hill Descent Control; Hill Start Assist; and ABS with electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, brake drying and brake fade compensation. The only safety option is the rearview camera; it's a great safety feature that can reduce the chance of backing over a child or pedestrian.
The BMW X6 was the first of its kind. Until Acura introduced the ZDX, there were no other raised four-door coupe/SUVs on the market.
The X6 shares its basic architecture with the X5 SUV (or SAV for Sports Activity Vehicle in BMW parlance), but it is modified for the X6. The wheelbase is the same, but the X6 is about two inches wider and the rear track is 2.2 inches wider. The X6's coupe-like body design also makes it three inches lower than the X5. The X6's raised ride height (with a ground clearance of 8.5 inches) means it is classified as a truck. The M model sits 0.4 inch lower than the others.
On the road, the X6 has a definite presence. For starters, there's the twin-kidney BMW grille. The X6 differs from the X5 and announces its performance character with lots of front end cooling. A small mesh grille is located beneath the twin kidney grilles and a larger lower air intake, also with a mesh grille, is found along the bottom of the front fascia. More noticeable are two massive air intakes that house round fog lights located beneath the cat's eye-style headlights. The two main line models have fog lights in the air intake openings, but the M does not. The M also has a different, more angular lower fascia.
It's from the side that the X6 makes its biggest statement. If you would only see the X6 from the beltline down, you'd think it's an SUV. After all, the wheelwells house massive tires, yet the wheel openings are so massive that there is plenty of air around the tires. It's the greenhouse, however, that defines the vehicle. The roof reaches the peak of its height just behind the windshield and steadily slopes down to the rear end where it culminates in a built-in spoiler. When viewed from the rear, this spoiler is part of the hatchback and it resembles the high trunk that debuted on the 7 Series. The M differs from the other two models with BMW's signature gills behind the front wheels and with a unique 20-inch wheel design.
The rear view shows a wide, rounded shape. It doesn't look quite like a sports car, though, because the rear end is fairly tall and chunky, not sleek and slim like a BMW 6 Series or Porsche 911. Nonetheless, like a sports car, the high rear end and sloped roof give the X6 the look of a predator hunched and ready to attack. Again, the M model has a unique appearance. It features a different lower fascia with an integral rear diffuser that surrounds quad exhaust outlets.
The overall ambience of the BMW X6 cabin is decidedly upscale. Just about every BMW has a nice, if somewhat staid, interior, but the X6 is more luxurious than most of the line. Soft-touch surfaces abound and the few plastics that are to be found are solid and tastefully finished. The standard dash is nicely padded, and is even nicer with the optional leather covering. Real wood trim is used throughout.
No matter the model, the driver grips a substantial steering wheel with aluminum shift paddles and looks upon a hooded instrument cluster that features a prominent speedometer and tachometer. Outlined in silver, the gauges feature black faces with white numbers. Base models have white needles and the M has red needles. Inset and shrouded, the gauges are easy to read, as is the digital trip computer information that is displayed between the two gauges. The trip computer information is accessed through a button on the turn signal stalk.
To the driver's right is the center stack, which features an 8.8-inch screen that displays the navigation map (when navigation is ordered) and other functions of BMW's iDrive control system. Below the screen are two vents, a set of climate control buttons, and the radio controls. The radio controls are set low, and we had to momentarily take our eyes off the road to adjust the radio. Standard steering wheel controls help here, though. BMW also provides eight programmable buttons so specific radio stations, navigation destinations, and telephone numbers can be accessed instantly.
iDrive, now in its fourth generation, is controlled via a round aluminum knob on the center console. With this generation, the system has Menu, CD, Radio, Tel, Nav, Back, and Option buttons surrounding the control knob. The previous generation had only a Menu button. This system controls navigation, communication, climate, and entertainment functions. It can still require several steps to perform various functions, making tasks like finding a new radio station overly complicated, but we find the latest generation easier to use than its predecessor. We also found that it becomes easier once you get used to it.
For 2010, BMW adds a Top View display to its rearview camera. The top view also allows you to see the side of the vehicle when backing up, making it easier to parallel park. In this case, more information is more helpful and not distracting. The navigation system also comes with an 80-gigabyte hard drive this year, 15 gigs of which can be used to store music files.
In the M model, drivers can also control the M Drive settings through the iDrive system. Chose the settings for the Electronic Damper Control, Dynamic Stability Control, Power (throttle mapping and transmission shift points), and Head-up Display in various iDrive screens and they will all be used when you press the M button on the steering wheel. These controls allow you to firm up the suspension, leave more room for play in the stability control system, increase throttle response, adjust shift points and add a rev counter warning in the optional Head-up display to inform you when to shift manually if you're using the automatic transmission's M (manual) mode.
The center console also features two cupholders covered by a shade in front of the shift knob, a small cubby to hold items such as change or a cell phone, and a deep console bin that is padded in leather when you order the leather dashboard. Knee pads on either side of the center console help keep passengers from banging their knees when the driver decides to charge hard into turns.
The driver's seating position is high like that of an SUV. There is plenty of head and leg room and the multi-adjustable seats should allow anyone to find a comfortable driving position. The M's sport seats have deeper bolstering, but we didn't find it too intrusive. The front passenger has good room, too, but a long-legged colleague noted that the footwell's limited leg room meant he had to put the seat farther back than usual. Visibility to the rear is blocked by the sloped roofline, but the large mirrors help make up for that with a good view to the sides and rear.
The rear seat is fairly comfortable. It only has seating for two, which leaves a lot of hip and shoulder room. Head room is generally good, though it starts to go away if you lean back or are quite tall. Leg room is good until the front seats are moved more than halfway back. Occupants in back have a handy center tray with two cupholders and a shallow tray with a rubberized bottom for holding small items. Getting in and out of the back is a little tough, as the door openings are small, requiring occupants to twist their ankles and turn sideways to slide in and out. Generally, the rear seat makes the X6 comfortable for four adults, but the lack of a center position limits the X6's usefulness for families.
For cargo, the rear seat folds down 60/40 to create a mostly flat load floor. A pass-through for skis and other long items can be loaded without restricting passenger capacity. With the seats up, there is 25.6 cubic feet of cargo space, about the same as your average hatchback. That's appropriate because the X6 really is a hatchback. With the seats down, there's 59.7 cubic feet of cargo room, which is about the same as a 5 Series wagon. The rear hatch lifts in one piece, but the load floor is rather high and the coupe-like roof limits the height of packages that can be loaded. Overall, the X6 has the cargo flexibility of a typical hatchback, which is good, but it is not as spacious as most small SUVs.
Driving Impression
All BMW X6 models come standard with xDrive all-wheel drive, which varies the power between the front and rear axles electronically. The X6 was also the first BMW with Dynamic Performance Control. DPC uses two planetary gear sets and two clutch packs in the rear differential to multiply torque to individual rear wheels. Sending more power to an outside wheel helps steer the vehicle through turns. It's hard to feel the system operate, but we swear we could feel it pulling us through a corner on Road Atlanta in the X6 M.
All X6 models handle well, but they don't feel like a sports car, due mostly to the high center of gravity. There's just no getting around mass, and the X6 weighs around 5,000-plus pounds. A 5 Series sedan, by comparison, weighs less than 4,000 pounds. However, the X6 handles better than it should for its size and weight, especially the M.
We've driven X6 M, xDrive 35i and xDrive50i. Both base models were outfitted with the Sport Package with Adaptive Drive/Active Roll Stabilization and 20-inch wheels with run-flat tires. The M comes with stiffer suspension settings, self-leveling rear springs, adjustable shock absorbers, specially developed power steering with Normal and Sport modes, and massive brakes. We found that all models have capable suspensions that combine with Active Roll Stabilization to help them corner flatter than any SUV. However, even the X6 M has more body lean and tire squeal than you'd get in a BMW 3 Series.
The stiff suspension settings and short sidewalls on the X6s we drove can take their toll on rough roads. Even with the Electronic Damping Control in the Comfort setting, the X6 reacts harshly to sharp bumps and the ride is generally stiffer than many drivers would prefer for everyday use. We're guessing the standard 19-inch wheels and tires will help provide a softer ride, but they're still run-flat tires with short, stiff sidewalls, so we recommend you test drive the X6 before you buy to make sure you can live with the ride.
A 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine comes in the X6 xDrive50i. It makes 407 horsepower from 5500 to 6400 rpm and 450 pound-feet of torque from 1750-4500 rpm. BMW says the V8 is capable of launching the X6 from 0 to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds. It certainly feels that quick. The 4.4-liter turbo doesn't have the immediate grunt from a stop of a larger V8, but after initial throttle application it makes power quickly and keeps it coming. Passing is a breeze, and the 4.4-liter V8 provides more power than you'll need for most purposes. Properly equipped, the xDrive50i can tow an impressive 7700 pounds.
The X6 M uses a version of the same twin-turbocharged engine, but it has its own pistons, camshafts and cooling system. It also uses a unique crossover exhaust manifold that pairs cylinders on opposite sides of the firing order to produce a more constant air flow that results in even less turbo lag than the already impressive 50i engine. The result is 555 horsepower from 5750 to 6000 rpm and 500 pound-feet of torque from 1500 to 5650 rpm. On the road, the X6 M has the immediate grunt that the 50i lacks, and a stab of the throttle provides a further rush of acceleration. BMW says the X6 M can go from a standstill to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, and that number feels right. That's impressive for a 5324 pound vehicle. In fact, it's a tenth of a second quicker than the much lighter, though not turbocharged, M3.
The six-cylinder engine in the X6 xdrive35i isn't too shabby, either. It's BMW's twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6, which produces 306 horsepower from 5800 to 6250 rpm and 300 pound-feet of torque from 1400-5000 rpm. According to BMW, this engine makes the X6 capable of a 6.5 second 0-60 mph time, which is quite quick for a vehicle of this size. The six-cylinder returns decent EPA fuel economy ratings of 15 mpg City and 20 mpg Highway. With the towing package, the xDrive35i can tow a substantial 5940 pounds. Given the cost difference between the inline-6 and V8, we'd recommend the 3.0-liter six-cylinder, as it makes as much power as we need and provides better mileage.
All engines work through a responsive six-speed automatic transmission. Drivers can shift manually via a pair of standard aluminum steering wheel shift paddles or through the gearshift. Tapping the paddles up or down shifts gears automatically; there is no need to put the gearshift in a sport mode. There is a Sport mode, though, that holds gears longer for performance driving. We found the transmission to be in the right gear 95 percent of the time during racetrack driving with the transmission in Sport mode and the M Drive in the Power setting. There is also an M mode that drivers can use when they definitely want to pick their own gears. Why bother, though. Just leave it in D, pick your gears when you want and let the transmission shift back to Drive when you aren't interested in shifting.
The gearshift is also a bit odd. Instead of the familiar gated PRNDL, it remains stationary and the driver hits a button and bumps it forward for Reverse, backward for Drive or to the left for the M (Manual) and S (Sport) modes. Another button puts it in Park. It takes some time to get used to, but it takes up less space, which BMW uses for cupholders and small items storage.
Optional Active Steering varies the steering ratio based on speed. Active Steering makes the X6 easy to maneuver in tight quarters and keeps it stable at speed. We like it.
We also like the X6's brakes. A racetrack is the best test of brakes, and we heated them up pretty good in several laps of spirited driving. We drove the base models on a shorter racetrack with speeds that didn't exceed 100 mph and the brakes remained strong with no appreciable fade. The X6 M has larger brakes and we put them to the test on the longer, higher speed circuit at Road Atlanta. The brakes performed admirably initially, but began to fade after numerous full braking maneuvers from 140 mph. You'll never brake that hard that often on the street, though (at least you shouldn't). In anything other than these extreme conditions, the brakes are easy to modulate and the X6 remains composed and stable during emergency braking.
Like most BMWs, the BMW X6 is a fine automobile. It rides high like an SUV; it's fast; it handles well; and it's comfortable inside. Ride quality is a bit harsh, the price of admission is high, and compared to an SUV it has limited space inside for passengers and cargo. The new X6 M is a true hot rod that handles better than a tall vehicle should, but it's high price will keep it off of most shopping lists.
Kirk Bell filed this report to NewCarTestDrive.com after his test drive of the X6 in South Carolina and Atlanta.
Model Lineup
BMW X6 xdrive35i ($55,900); X6 xdrive50i ($66,650); X6 M ($88,900).
Assembled In
Spartanburg, South Carolina.
Options As Tested
Cold Weather package ($1,250) with heated steering wheel, heated front and rear seats, retractable headlight washers, and a ski bag for the rear seat pass-through; Premium Package ($2,200) with power liftgate, universal garage door opener, auto-dimming rearview mirror, power folding and auto-dimming exterior mirrors, 4-way power adjustable lumbar support for the front seats, digital compass, ambient lighting, rear storage system, Bluetooth cell phone link, and BMW Assist emergency and concierge service; Sport Package ($3,200) with Adaptive Drive with Active Roll Stabilization and Electronic Damping Control, Shadowline exterior side window trim, anthracite headliner; P275/40R20 front and P315/35R20 rear run-flat performance tires ($950) includes 155mph speed limiter; Active Steering ($1,500), rearview camera ($400), head-up display ($1,200).
Model Tested
BMW X6 xDrive50i ($66,650).
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The green economy provides an entry point for some innovative, perhaps radical, re-thinking of how we manage the earth's natural resources. While tremendous and much-deserved attention has been given to the impacts of carbon emissions and climate change on oceans and marine resources, only limited attention has been paid to carbon's neighbor among the elements – nitrogen.
Mankind has disturbed the global cycle of nitrogen even more than that of carbon. Since the early 1900s, humans have been converting atmospheric nitrogen gas into 'reactive' forms like ammonia and nitrate to produce fertilizers for agriculture. This energy intensive process now generates 150 percent more reactive nitrogen than natural processes on land.
The nearly unlimited availability of relatively cheap artificial fertilizer has driven a 'green revolution', tremendous increases in agricultural productivity and food production for growing populations around the world.
The other side of this revolution has been a roughly three-fold increase in the amount of nitrogen – from both agricultural runoff and wastewater - reaching our coasts and oceans from the continents. The vast use of nitrogen-based fertilizers has also substantially increased releases of gaseous nitrous oxide – a potent greenhouse gas - from fertilized land.
Nitrogen and phosphorus are essential nutrients for growth of the ocean's plankton, but excess amounts can create dead zones in which large numbers of decomposing plankton consume almost all available oxygen. There has been an alarming increase in hypoxic zones across the world's bodies of water, such as in the Baltic Sea and Gulf of Mexico. Estimates of the economic damage from excess nitrogen in the European Union alone amount to the equivalent of GBP 280 billion per year.
In a parallel to the nitrogen problem, global reserves of fertilizer's other main ingredient, phosphorus, could peak sometime this century; shortages of phosphorus – which has no substitute – could threaten global food security.
A seemingly unrelated issue is the challenging Millennium Development Goal of halving by 2015 the proportion of people without access to basic sanitation. At present, nearly 2.6 billion people still lack a safe, hygienic sanitation facility that keeps human waste from being released into the local environment. The total financial value of nitrogen and phosphorus contained in the waste of the unserved 2.6 billion amounts to about GBP 3 billion per year.
In parallel, fertilizer manufacturers, particularly in Europe, face increasing challenges in operating profitably due to the combined high costs of imported natural gas and electricity under the EU's greenhouse gas emission trading system.
Is there perhaps an unrecognized business – and poverty reduction - opportunity at hand, whereby fertilizer manufacturers turn to the poor as an important source of nitrogen and phosphorus, by delivering and managing sustainable sanitation services to the world's poorest, and harvesting and selling the fertilizer end products?
A wide variety of 'eco-sanitation' separating toilets are already available, many at low cost. Such innovative companies would also be able to sell carbon emissions reduction credits due to the sizeable reductions in their emissions of greenhouse gases, and clearly the initiative would create large numbers of jobs in the world's poorest countries. Notably, the city of Paris recovered 50 percent or more of its human waste in the mid-1800's and used it as fertilizer for local farms; it was the advent of modern water and sewage systems that quickly changed this practice.
Whether such a program might actually be economically viable remains to be seen - it might require initial subsidies to overcome barriers to scaling up. What's important to recognize is the urgent need fora paradigm shift from linear to cyclic approaches to managing our vital nutrient resources, and the myriad long-term benefits of such a transition, not only to our precious oceans but also to global food security, poverty reduction and mitigating climate change.
Andrew Hudson is Cluster Leader of the United Nations' Development Programme's Water & Ocean Governance Programme and is currently serving as the Coordinator of UN-Oceans.


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Steamed Pumpkin Custard
This is a streamlined version of the famous Thai steamed pumpkin custard -- you know, the kind where you steam a whole pumpkin along with the custard filling, the kind that isn't as easy to make as many recipes want you to think (I'll talk more about this in due time). You get pretty much the same taste out of it without nearly as much fuss. This appeals to a lazy person like me who's always looking for a faster, easier way to do everything. More


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THE VILLAGES, Fla. — Dr. and Mrs. David Stephenson announce the engagement of their daughter, Laura Elizabeth, to Matthew Brandon Kind, son of Randy and Debbie Kind, Johnson City, Tenn.
The bride-elect is a graduate of Science Hill High School; and a graduate of East Tennessee State University, where she received a bachelor's degree in biology. She is a student at Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy.
She is a granddaughter of Robert and Eileen Hansel, Cincinnati, Ohio; Thelma Stephenson, Richmond, Va.; and the late T.D. Stephenson.
Her fiancé is a graduate of Science Hill High School, and is a student at East Tennessee State University. He is employed by Science Hill High School as head soccer coach and is a coach for East Tennessee Soccer Federation.
He is a grandson of Earlean L. Kind, Johnson City; the late William R. Kind Jr.; and the late Kenneth C. and Lydia R. Dunn.
The couple plan a wedding for summer 2012.


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|Home > Deer Hunting Leases > Search US Map > West Virginia
You've Come to the Right Place.
Counties With Available Leases
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West Virginia has always been considered the greatest hunting area in the East. In our early history, the Five Nations of American Indian shared this group hunting ground.
Today, professional wildlife management has produced tremendous success stories and has positioned West Virginia again as the "great hunting grounds" of the surrounding eastern urban areas.
Hunting in West Virginia is a time-honored tradition in which the majority of families have at least one member who participates on a regular basis. Each year more than 350,000 hunters take to West Virginia's woods in search of some sort of quarry. Whitetail deer, eastern wild turkey, and black bear are plentiful.
West Virginia is blessed with both quantity and quality. Whitetail deer from the southern portions of the state frequently sport 160+ class headgear while other areas support populations as high as 25 deer per square mile. Habitat is primarily woodland with great diversity in topography.
For a truly, wild and wonderful experience, West Virginia is the top spot in the east.
Hunting Seasons
West Virginia 2014 Fall Archery Deer Season - September 27-December 31
West Virginia 2014 Fall Deer Muzzleloader Season - December 8-13
West Virginia 2014 Fall Gun Deer Season - November 24-December 6
*Always check state regulations and confirm dates before planning your hunting trip
Search for Hunting Property


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Clark Danielson College Life Center Gymnasium
The CLC Gym serves as the home of Ram's Men's and Women's Basketball and Women's Volleyball. It also serves as a campus life hub hosting various campus activities such as intramurals, Student Activities Committee events, and different Physical Eduation Classes.
The Coon Rapids Soccer Complex is located two blocks east of Hanson Blvd. on 111th Avenue adjacent to the city's Public Works facility. The site contains six regulation championship caliber lighted soccer fields used for all ages in summer and fall league activity. The fields are are also used by the Coon Rapids Soccer Association for youth soccer clinics, games, and tournaments
Wintercrest Baseball Complex
The Wintercrest Baseball Complex is part of the City of Coon Rapids Park District and is used by Anoka/Ramsey Community College and North Central University.
Phillips Park Softball Field
East Phillips Park is located 1.5 miles from North Central University's campus. The facility was opened in 2013 and the Rams will begin calling the field their home in 2014.


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Accused Bombing Mastermind Arraigned At Guantanamo
The Obama administration's first attempt to try a Guantanamo detainee in a military commission began Wednesday with the arraignment of the man accused of masterminding the bombing of the U.S.S. Cole. The incident killed 17 servicemen and women in Yemen in 2000. Human rights groups object to trying terrorists in a parallel justice system hundreds of miles off U.S. shores.