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Fresh water resources- their quantity, location and distribution- are briefly discussed in this two-page article. The article can be used as a "reading to be informed" activity in a stand-alone fashion or can be incorporated into a lesson plan.
Materials Cost: Free
This set of three videos illustrates how math is used in satellite data analysis. The videos feature NASA senior climate scientist Claire Parkinson. Parkinson explains how the Arctic and Antarctic sea ice covers are measured from satellite data and... (View More) how math is used to determine trends in the data. In the first video, she leads viewers from satellite data collection through obtaining a time series of monthly average sea ice extents for November 1978 – December 2012, for the Arctic and Antarctic. In the second video, she begins with the time series from the first video, removes the seasonal cycle by calculating yearly averages, and proceeds to calculate the slopes of the lines to get trends in the data, revealing decreasing sea ice coverage in the Arctic and increasing sea ice coverage in the Antarctic. In the third video, she uses a more advanced technique to remove the seasonal cycle and shows that the trends are close to the same, whichever method is used. She emphasizes the power of math and that the techniques shown for satellite sea ice data can also be applied to a wide range of data sets. (View Less)
Materials Cost: Free
Emphasizing the synergies between science and engineering, these video clips highlight the research of professional ocean scientists and engineers in various disciplines. The clips are accompanied by additional relevant content including images,... (View More) data visualizations, graphs, animations, and other information. Content has been organized into more than a dozen thematic areas such as Solving Old Problems with New Technology and Small Scale Observations and Large Scale Ideas. All content has been aligned with science and engineering practices from the Next Generation Science Standards, including "asking questions and solving problems" and "planning and carrying out investigations," providing applicable resources for teachers who want to provide role models of effective practice for their students. (View Less)
Materials Cost: Free
This gallery contains a selection of images of the cryosphere - particularly glaciers. Images are provided from a range of Earth-observing satellites as well as on the ground photographs. SciJinks is a joint NASA/NOAA educational website targeting... (View More) middle school-aged children and their educators. It explores weather and Earth science through articles, videos, images, and games. (View Less)
This Wild Weather Jobs article profiles Dr. Pablo Clemente-Colón and his team at the U.S. National Ice Center (NIC). SciJinks is a joint NASA/NOAA educational website targeting middle school-aged children and their educators. It explores weather... (View More) and Earth science through articles, videos, images, and games. (View Less)
This article explains the polar vortex: an area of low pressure (a wide expanse of swirling cold air) that is parked in polar regions. An explanation is also provided for high and low pressure systems. SciJinks is a joint NASA/NOAA educational... (View More) website targeting middle school-aged children and their educators. It explores weather and Earth science through articles, videos, images, and games. (View Less)
Materials Cost: Free
This video provides a glimpse into the snowfall research planned as part of the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) mission. GPM Deputy Project Scientist, Gail Skofronick-Jackson, reveals the capabilities of the satellite's new sensors, which,... (View More) through increased sensitivity, will help to overcome the challenges associated with measuring snowfall from space. (View Less)
Participants respond to 10 multiple-choice questions related to glaciers and ice-caps. Immediate feedback, explanations and a final score are provided.
Materials Cost: Free
This series of 12 captioned images depict some of the issues facing Earth's fresh water supply, such as pollution, drought, and glacial retreat. The Climate Kids website is a NASA education resource featuring articles, videos, images and games... (View More) focused on the science of climate change. (View Less)
Arctic warming produces biological winners (whales) and losers (polar bears). This article explains why they are impacted differently and includes supplemental images. This lesson is part of the Climate Kids website, a NASA education resource... (View More) featuring articles, videos, images and games focused on the science of climate change. (View Less)


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- Musician's Friend Best Selection, Price & Service. Guaranteed.
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at: 800-449-9128
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at: 800-449-9128
Put a big throb on the dance floor!
The CVA-118 subwoofer is a high-performance, compact 18" active sub with 700W of efficient power output. The legendary Cerwin-Vega woofer design is reflected in this 18" woofer offering maximum bass performance with extreme power handling and exceptional low-frequency response. The CVA-118 speaker features built-in amplification for an integrated, all-in-one solution. A unique and striking cast aluminum grille protects the woofer while doubling as a heat-sink to minimize power compression and optimizing driver performance. Housed in a compact hardwood enclosure design the size of a standard 15" subwoofer footprint, the CVA-118 is highly portable and durable. Along with XLR and 1/4" TRS connectors, the CVA-118 has Master/Slave output connectors that allow for multiple CVA subwoofers to be daisy-chained together using a single signal. This compact active sub also features a 35 mm pole-mount socket to accommodate a satellite speaker for full range performance.
CVA-118 18" Active Subwoofer
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Comments about Cerwin-Vega CVA-118 18" Active Subwoofer:
amp built in big plus
Comments about Cerwin-Vega CVA-118 18" Active Subwoofer:
Its a no brainor. Your already gonna spend the money. Get the Cerwin Vega. You want be dissapointed.
Easy to use as the master or a slave. Everything you need is there and simple to adjust.
Built like a tank. Heavy duty Grill. Finish is durable.
The price is a average price for a powered 18" sub. This one hits harder and is clearer than the jbl's ( That was hard for me to admit, cause I love jbl stuff ) , clearer than the mackie stuff too. Its got that deep , hard punch to it.
Comments about Cerwin-Vega CVA-118 18" Active Subwoofer:
Yikes, good strong thump. I auditioned several units from Yahmha and JBL, and this unit out thumped them all. Fortunately the bass is also very clean. Truly surprised to get this much out an 18in in a cab this compact. While it is compact, it weights a ton, but the sound is worth it. Only gripes are the controls for the high and low pass filters are a bit tough to turn and the chiped paint finish flakes of easily. A set of removal castors would have been nice.
Our product catalog varies by country due to manufacturer restrictions. If you change the Ship-To country, some or all of the items in your cart may not ship to the new destination.

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CampLine: 2009 Fall Issue
2009 Fall CampLine
An interview with Dana Andrews, licensing administrator for the Division of Child Care, Colorado Department of Human Services
When camp professionals call the ACA Camp Crisis Hotline to discuss mandated reporter issues, they often want to know what to expect if they phone their state child abuse reporting authority. We've gone to one of those authorities to better understand what happens when they receive a call.
"Child abuse and neglect laws, as well as who is defined as a mandated reporter, vary from state to state," states Dana Andrews, licensing administrator for the Division of Child Care, Colorado Department of Human Services. "In Colorado, for example, every staff member at camp is a mandated reporter. In our state's rules, every camp staff member is required to read and sign a statement confirming knowledge of what child abuse is and affirming they are aware of their role as a mandated reporter." This important document will be required and sought during any investigation of child abuse.
The Fall 2008 issue of The CampLine details the requirements of mandated reporting, www.ACAcamps.org/campline/2008fall.pdf. We've asked Ms. Andrews to be more specific about who to call and what to expect from the phone call.
Who To Call
If you believe a child has been harmed (whether at home, outside of camp, or at camp), you should report concerns to the appropriate authorities. In every state, qualified experts are available who can listen to your concerns, examine the situation, and determine the best course of action as to whether intervention or other services are necessary.
Visit www.childwelfare.gov/responding/reporting.cfm for a listing of in-state, toll-free, and local phone numbers to report suspected child abuse. An additional resource for information about reporting child abuse or neglect is the Childhelp® National Child Abuse Hotline, 800-4-A-Child® (800-422-4453).
What to Expect
During the intake and assessment after your initial call is made, your report or referral undergoes a screening process by professional staff who use criteria specific to your state law to determine if your report should be accepted for detailed investigation or assessment. Those accepted for a comprehensive inquiry are often referred to as "screened-in" reports. If your referral does not meet the criteria for immediate, intensive investigation, the call will be "screened out" and referred to other services. Every report of potential child abuse and neglect is taken seriously and is intensely scrutinized during the screening process. No report is left without a level of investigation. The level of investigation is determined by state criteria and screening requirements. If a call is screened out of a formal investigation, the report qualifies for yet another investigative measure, which may include referral to the Child Care Licensing Agency for that state.
"When a call is made to report an abuse or neglect allegation, an initial screening process by trained professionals in your state will take place based on your particular state's statute for defining what constitutes child abuse or neglect. This screening process is not the same in all states. For instance, in Colorado, if a report is 'screened in,' the severity of the allegation of abuse determines how quickly someone is sent to investigate. Authorities will make an unannounced visit to the camp," explains Andrews.
An investigation may be conducted by authorities deemed by your particular state, which could include child protective services staff, the police, or a multidisciplinary team of professionals. Investigators may interview camp staff, terminated staff members, the executive director, program director, or other campers, depending on what was observed and the role staff and campers might have had in the situation. Investigators may travel outside the state to visit the child's home and interview the parents.
As a camp professional, it is your responsibility to promote the safety and well-being of each child under your care. Responding to suspicions of child abuse and neglect and being aware of your responsibility as a mandated reporter are ways you can protect a child from imminent or future harm.
Reference: Child Welfare Information Gateway. (2008). "Mandated Reporters of Child Abuse and Neglect." [cited 2 October 2009] Available from www.childwelfare.gov


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Serving Trays
Whether your favorite look is bold, understated, contemporary or classic, our serving tray collection will give all your culinary creations a touch of beautiful, classic style. We have a full range of gorgeous server options, including food trays, bed trays and cocktail trays. Constructed of durable materials such as wood, melamine plastic, metal and woven natural fiber, our trays are designed to last for years of serving and entertaining. Shop our selection of trays in classic and contemporary designs.


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LONDON (MarketWatch) — European stocks posted small losses on Tuesday, as investors focused on the unofficial start to the U.S. earnings season and discounted euro-zone data that painted a mixed picture of the region's economic recovery.
The Stoxx Europe 600 index SXXP, -1.42% closed 0.1% lower at 286.25, adding to the benchmark's 0.4% loss on Monday.
Twitter takes on 'Downton Abbey'
The PBS show has returned for another season, with new cast members, new fashions and all the requisite intrigue. Social media were buzzing during the Sunday night premiere.
"U.S. earnings are what everybody is focusing on this week," said Guy Foster, head of portfolio strategy at Brewin Dolphin.
Although investors "had fairly modest expectations for the earnings season, they are now looking more optimistic. Surveys have been better, payrolls have been better and the housing market has improved. There are various factors that support risk premiums," he said.
Among Tuesday's movers, shares of Vodafone Group PLC VOD, -1.21% VOD, -0.03% gained 1.7%. Lowell McAdam, chief executive of Verizon Communications Inc. VZ, +0.32% said it is possible the U.S. blue-chip could buy out Vodafone's 45% stake in joint venture Verizon Wireless. See: Verizon CEO says buying out Vodafone is feasible.
Nokia Corp. FI:NOK1V NOK, -1.00% sank 6.2%, as Credit Suisse reiterated its underperform rating on the handset firm and said it "faces material challenges in turning the business around over the next 12 months." It specifically mentioned that Nokia's Windows phones will struggle to gain traction, as the firm's hardware is less competitive compared with Apple's AAPL, -0.46% iPhone 5 and Samsung's Galaxy.
On the same vein, shares of Ericsson LM ERICB, -1.68% slumped 4.8%. Credit Suisse also reiterated an underperform rating on that firm, saying it faces muted growth in 2013.
Shares of Telekom Austria AG TKA, -0.96% lost 3.2%. The carrier said it expects the "challenges which characterized the operational environment during 2012 to continue to dominate" in 2013.
Alcoa on deck
Investors were jittery as they waited for U.S. corporate-earnings releases. A bellwether for global growth, Alcoa Inc. AA, -1.75% releases its fourth-quarter results after Tuesday's closing bell on Wall Street.
"With a global footprint and being the first cyclical name to report, investors will be keenly watching [Alcoa] management's guidance for forward aluminum demand as a gauge of global economic conditions," analysts at Deutsche Bank said in a note.
Foster from Brewin Dolphin said that while earnings expectations have improved recently, investors will find it hard to only focus on potentially good news from the corporate sector.
"It has to be a pretty strong earnings season to make investors look beyond the [U.S.] debt ceiling," he said. "If it's not solved you could expect a technical recession based on sequestration. But we don't expect that to happen."
U.S. policy makers last week hammered out a last-minute deal to avert the fiscal cliff, but they will soon return to the negotiating table to deal with the nation's debt ceiling.


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FootJoy Women's ProDry Lightweight Pom Pom Golf Sock
Product Information:
Add feminine style to your golf attire in the FootJoy® ProDry Lightweight Socks, featuring pink trim and a pom pom detail at the heel. Specially designed for golf, they're crafted from lightweight fabric that lifts perspiration away from your skin for a dry fit. Plus, the enclosed toe seam and reinforced heel help to reduce abrasion and friction for a more comfortable wear.
- DrySof™ Moisture Control Technology throughout sock lifts moisture away from the skin for faster evaporation
- Lycra® / spandex blend provides an excellent fit and superior stretch and recovery
- Reinforced, double-layered heel provides support and cushioning in a known high abrasion area
- Comfort Seam™ is FootJoy's exclusive enclosed toe seam for advanced comfort and fit
- Pink trim and pom pom detail at back heel
- Made of cotton and Lycra® / spandex
- FootJoy
- Sock Size: One Size = Shoe Size: Women's 6-9
Country of Origin: ChinaWeb ID: 21453706
Customer Reviews:
Rated 3.7 out of 5�by 3 reviewers.
Rated 5 out of 5�by Kahuna Great Great socks especially in hot weather golfing in Las Vegas! June 17, 2014
Rated 4 out of 5�by Tracy42 Comfy socks These socks are comfortable and a good value. I would buy another pair for golfing. June 25, 2013
Rated 2 out of 5�by bc footjoy socks These socks were higher cut than I prefer. They also were long and bunched at the end of my shoe. I bought the smallest size available, but they were stll too large. Quality was fair. June 18, 2013
1-3 of 3


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Product Information:
Big tree, 54 green leaves. Birdhouse. 2 birds. Squirrel. Resource guide.
Weights & Dimensions
|Product Type: Bulletin Board Cut Outs & Accents
|Color: Multi-colored
|Country of Manufacture: United States
About the ManufacturerCarson-Dellosa Publishing, LLC, based in Greensboro, North Carolina, is a leading educational solutions provider for both educators and parents. Founded by two teachers, the company boasts a 30-year history of enhancing a child's learning potential and environment through quality curriculum, supplemental learning materials, and classroom resources. Today, Carson-Dellosa continues its legacy of offering a wide array of products that are created by teachers for teachers and parents. The complete product line includes supplemental books for math, science, social studies, language arts, and early childhood; classroom decoratives; pocket charts; and games and manipulatives for prekindergarten through the eighth grade.
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We want you to love it. If you don't, you may return your purchase within 30 days of delivery. All you need to do is visit our Self-Service Return Center for instructions. Return credits are issued within 24 hours once the item is received and inspected. Please note that shipping charges are non-refundable. The cost of return shipping will be deducted from your refund. 30-Day Return Policy
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See Other EOS DSLR Cameras
For professionals who demand nothing less than the best, the EOS 5D Mark III is designed to perform superbly, even in the most treacherous environments, every time. The body is constructed of rigid, high-strength magnesium alloy for rugged performance and features a new grip design for easier finger placement and reduced hand fatigue. Its newly redesigned shutter has lightweight and carbon-fiber blades, and is rated to maintain up to 6.0 fps performance without compromise, for up to 150,000 cycles. The EOS 5D Mark III and accessories like the new Wireless File Transmitter WFT-E7A and GPS Receiver GP-E2 have extensive gasketing for improved dust and water resistance, even at their connection points.
The Self Cleaning Sensor Unit featured in the EOS 5D Mark II has been optimized for the new EOS 5D Mark III to deliver even greater dust removal for clearer images. To prevent dust accumulation, the system removes particles adhered to the surface of the infrared absorbing/ultraviolet-blocking glass in a frontward direction by vibrating the glass with ultrasound. The particles are then absorbed by an adsorbent at the bottom of the unit; the unit itself is completely sealed for protection against external contaminants, and its front face of the low-pass filter 1 is treated with an anti-dust fluorine coating making it easier to remove damp or sticky dust particles.
Prices and specifications subject to change without notice. Actual prices are determined by individual dealers and may vary.
© 2015 Canon U.S.A., Inc. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.


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SunTouch Accessories
SunTouch manufactures a number of accessories that can make installing your mat even simpler. Whether you could use some extra double-sided tape to hold the mat down or would like a Loudmouth fault alarm for peace of mind during you installation, you can find everything you need here.
Ready for Heated Floors?
Installation is easy and we're here to help!Floor heating basics Planning your layout videos
Visit Our Knowledge Center for more info
SunTouch Tape Medium 27' Ft x 3/4"Our Price
List Price: $8.00
Our Price: $7.50


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Primo Jacket (Women's) (out-of-stock)
Out of Stock Product Number: 26716
The Women's Primo Jacket by Patagonia is refined, waterproof/breathable 3-layer GORE-TEX Performance Shell nylon jacket is Patagonia's most durable and lightweight hard shell for diehard riding.
The Primo delivers everything on Patagonia's ambassadors' wish lists - as clean in line and form as Telluride's San Joaquin Couloir, as tough as the runs off North Palisade Peak. It's the most durable, lightweight hard shell we've made for charging hard diehard riding. The 3-layer GORE-TEX membrane is bonded with waterproof/breathable GORE-TEX Performance Shell on the outside and a robust lining on the inside for protection and durability. A DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish fends off slush and sleet. The Optimal Visibility Hood is helmet-compatible and 2-way-adjustable, with a laminated visor. The patented Touch Point System embeds cord locks in the hood and hem for on-the-fly adjustments. Other details include coated, watertight Slim Zips for reduced bulk, an adjustable, fully featured powder skirt and low-profile pleated cuff gussets.
* This product does not qualify for shipping to all countries.
- Tough 3-layer recycled nylon shell with waterproof/breathable GORE-TEX¿ Performance shell and a Deluge¿ DWR (durable water repellent) finish provides protection from cold and wet snow
- Helmet-compatible, 2-way-adjustable hood with laminated visor for optimal visibility in bad conditions. Tall collar protects neck and face, even with the hood down
- Touch Point System embeds cord locks in the hood and hem to offer quick adjustability and seal out snow (patented)
- Slim Zip installation with watertight coated zippers for reduced zipper bulk and weight
- Pit zips quickly release heat; pleated gusset comfortably secures cuff, over or under gloves, with less bulk
- Powder skirt is adjustable and fully featured; webbing loops connect to any Patagonia Ski/ Snowboard Pants to keep the snow out and the skirt down
- Pockets: Two handwarmers, one chest, one forearm, two interior drop-ins and one interior zippered pocket with key clip; includes secure media pocket with cable routing
Gender: Women's
Weight: (19.9 oz) 564 g
Material: 3L GORE-TEX
Fit: Regular Fit
Technologies: [eFibers, Gore-Tex]
Season: F12
Vendor ProductId: 31605
Review ProductId: 26716


text: As part of its effort to monitor public school accountability, the Pennsylvania Department of Education posts the Annual Charter School Reports. It is the Department's intention that these reports provide useful information for parents, educators and other members of the public who wish to assess the progress of Charter Schools in Pennsylvania. Please Note: All personal information—names of students, private addresses, phone numbers, email addresses and social security numbers-- have been redacted from each report. Below is a listing of all reports and is searchable.


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During a recent visit with my boyfriend's mother, she asked me the following question: So, what exactly are you researching for your PhD? As a PhD student, I am quite used to answering this question and replied with a generic response about my investigation into the role non-native accents play in the relationship between native and non-native speakers. She asked me a few more questions and then looked at me quizzically: "Isn't a lot of what you are researching pretty obvious?" she asked. "Why are people funding you to do research about something we already know?"
I was completely taken off guard. No one had ever asked me that before! I responded by going into detail about how I hoped that my research on accent perception would advance our understanding of immigration issues and that my work could hopefully help improve the way that native and non-native groups communicate. She didn't look convinced. And, to be honest, neither was I. The worst part was that I couldn't just dismiss her question on the basis that she isn't familiar with the field of Social Psychology. Her question was legitimate.
A recent article in the Los Angeles Times addresses this very issue. Its author, Eryn Brown, explains that while critics argue that funding "obvious" research is a waste of taxpayer money, experts claim that such research is essential for influencing public perceptions (Brown uses the example of cigarette smoking. While it may seem that it has been well established that cigarette smoke leads to poor health, studies proving this link are still needed in order to influence government policies on tobacco). Brown also addresses the structure of scientific research as an industry. Because research on established theories are more likely to be published and publication is necessary for a successful career, scientists may be more motivated to ask "timid questions" rather than take a chance on potentially ground breaking research that could also fail miserably.
While I could not find an academic article that directly relates to scientists' motivations for conducting research, I think this idea of "obvious" research is important. As the next generation of researchers in Social Psychology it will be up to us to decide which direction the field should go. For instance, in the words of Brown, when does research stop being "incremental" and start being "inconsequential?" Where do we draw the line between research that can be used for the common good and research just for the sake of research? How could we make such a decision? Is there anything wrong with asking "timid questions" and being motivated by potential publications?
As we think about our own upcoming research projects, it may be worth keeping some of these questions in mind. After all, the impact of our work depends on how we answer them. In the meantime, I'm going to get back to my research on accent perception. But this time, I may try to make my ideas just a bit less "obvious."
'Duh' science: Why researchers spend so much time proving the obvious


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Mon, 17 March 2014
Bo Radakovich is one of those guys who has given a ton to the gaming hobby as a designer, a publisher, a producer, a game convention organizer and so much more. It's great to have him back on the show after many years and I hope it won't be as long before he comes on again.
For this show, we talk about Bo's new Kickstarter campaign for Pirate Den, a fun new 30-minute game that is light enough for casual players but has the depth to interest serious gamers as well. It looks like a terrific game and you have until April 10th to support it and get the very cool sounding Kickstarter exclusives.
We also briefly chat about his company Gamesmith and his role with International TableTop Day, a cool holiday he cooked up with his friends at Geek and Sundry last year. This year is going to be bigger than ever so check out their event listing.
Want to see Bo showing off Pirate Den at SXSW? You can learn it and see the whole game played in 20 minutes.
Thanks again for downloading and listening to Boardgame Babylon.
Direct download: 106_Boardgame_Babylon_v106_-_QA_with_Bo_Radakovich_of_Gamesmith.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 11:39pm PDT
Mon, 13 January 2014
The first BGB of 2014 is a Q&A session with Joey Vigour and Matt Austin of Mirror Box Games, discussing their fun new game Chaosmos.
I've been meaning to play Joey's game for ages and I'm happy to say I finally got a chance over the holidays while enjoying a nice time at our SoCal board game cafe, GameHaus. I found Chaosmos to be a fun deduction game with a cool sci-fi theme, awesome art and alien races, and some inventive mechanisms. So, I invited them on the show to chat about their game. I think they did the right thing by getting a lot of exposure for their game and getting it played a lot around the country before hitting Kickstarter and clearly there was demand because it funded quickly, even with a lofty (for board games!) goal.
You can find more details on Chaosmos and support it on Kickstarter. It is already funded but their stretch goals seem pretty juicy for fans.
Anyway, I hope you enjoy the show and I'm glad to say getting back on the mic more is part of my plan for 2014. In addition to my work on three key games this year, I'm dialing back my involvement with Strategicon to focus my non-gaming gaming time other activities.
Feedback is always welcome either here or to my e-mail address on the side. Thanks for downloading and listening.
Direct download: 105_Boardgame_Babylon_Volume_105_-_QA_with_Mirror_Box_Games.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:36pm PDT
Sun, 8 September 2013
One of our most sought-after designers finally made the journey to Southern California to join us for a Strategicon. The varied, innovative designer Vlaada Chvatil, the man responsible for such amazing games as Through the Ages, Galaxy Trucker, Dungeon Lords, and Mage Knight came to Gateway 2013. Here is our Q&A session with him, where we discuss his ludography, his game company CGE, and his history in gaming. We hope you enjoy his comments.
Direct download: 104_BGB_Volume_104_-_QA_with_Vlaada_Chvatil_at_Gateway_2013.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:21pm PDT
Sat, 3 August 2013
Gamex 2013 was waaaaay back in May and somehow it took me until August to get this show out. Sorry about that but things at BGB have been pretty busy.
Anyway, this is the rest of the conversation we had when we were honored to host Scott Alden, the man behind Boardgamegeek.com and the convention for its fans, joined us as our Guest of Honor. And we were also lucky enough to lure GameNight Hosts and Producers Lincoln Damerst and Nikki Pontius over to talk about all kinds of game stuff. Listen in to the latter half of the conversation to hear more GameNight secrets ('those aren't bongs!') and more about the hobby in general with these three welcome guests to BGB.
And we're just about a month off from hosting Gateway 2013 Guest of Honor Vlaada Chvatil. I'm going to endeavor to release that show while we're still at the convention. There may be one more show in the interim, too, if I can get my possible co-host together for it. To whet your appetite, I'm calling that show "Gamer Dad Epic Fail".
Direct download: 103_BGB_Volume_103_-_QA_with_Scott_Alden_Lincoln_Damerst_and_Nikki_Pontius_Part_2.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:29am PDT
Mon, 15 July 2013
Gamex 2013 came and went earlier this summer. We were happy to host Scott Alden, the man behind Boardgamegeek.com and the convention for its fans, out to hang with us for the weekend. We played many games, enjoyed his company, and were happy to have Lincoln Damerst, one of the main BGG guys these days and host of the hit series of board game videos GameNight! and his lovely wife, Nikki Pontius, a Queen Games representative and producer of many a Kickstarter campaign, join us as well. We talk about many subjects from game cons to game libraries, Spiel, Kickstarters and a whole lot about GameNight!
This is part one of the conversation. Part two will come out next week when I return from San Diego ComicCon.
Direct download: 102_BGB_Volume_102_-_QA_with_Scott_Alden_at_Gamex_2013.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:31pm PDT
Sat, 23 March 2013
Not to spoil you but here is another Boardgame Babylon that was recorded at Orccon 2013. Inadvertently, this show was done with all the guests at Orccon on the same panel and it feels to me a bit like Graham Norton's chat show - an opportunity to bring the audience a blended Q&A session with our guests. Sometimes that format works best, especially when you have articulate guests like Richard, Justin and Anne-Marie. I really enjoyed this conversation and hope you will, too.
Please check below for details about the Fireside Games tour of the U.S. that is currently going on. You will definitely want to check out their fun family games and you won't meet a nicer couple of game designers (okay...Andy and Kristin Looney are right up there, too. And Dirk and Barbara Henn. Wait - maybe there are a lot of these wonderful pairs...)
Thanks for downloading and listening.
Fireside Games on Facebook Castle Panic Bears! Bloodsuckers
Plus - what the heck is this?
Direct download: 101_Boardgame_Babylon_v101_-_QA_Panel_with_Anne-Marie_and_Justin_DeWitt_plus_Richard_Breese.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:57am PDT
Tue, 12 March 2013
Yes, it's been six months since the last Boardgame Babylon. Listen in for my excuses but mostly, you should download this show to hear the wonderful stories of Richard Breese, designer of Reef Encounter, The Boardgamegeek Game, Keythedral, Aladdin's Dragons, and the top-rated Essen 2012 release, Keyflower. Richard was kind enough to join us here in sunny Southern California (yes, it was gorgeous over Presidents' Day Weekend - why weren't you here?) for our first Strategicon of the year, Orccon 2013.
Direct download: 100_Boardgame_Babylon_v100_-_QA_with_Richard_Breese_at_Orccon_2013.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:18pm PDT
Sat, 2 March 2013
Gaming lost the creator of the hobby's greatest games earlier this week. I share in the game community's mourning for Allan Calhamer, designer of the masterful game Diplomacy.
In many ways, this is the game that made me a gamer. Sure, I grew up playing card and board games and I played plenty of Dungeons and Dragons before I ever found Diplomacy. But this was the first game where I really thought about the rules, where I carefully read them when I was not playing, and where I read a guide about how to play the game. That's when you're a serious gamer, right? When you think about a game seriously and focus on it outside of play opportunities. Even with my years of playing chess (and reading a short book or two about it), I don't think I really thought about how I might come up with my own strategies - heck, chess strategies are just there for you to use. Diplomacy really got me thinking because it wasn't just strategy and using the rules - you had the squishy negotiations there. The strategy wasn't just making good choices and trying to anticipate moves; in Diplomacy, you could persuade your way to a win. This was new and amazing and although the rules are pretty simple, I studied them carefully to figure out ways to improve my play, studied the map, considered ways to manipulate other players in the game. That sure seems to me like a point of transformation from person who plays games to 'gamer'.
This was 1985. I've told the tale of my exposure to it at weekly games held by the SysOp of a BBS I called back at that time on the podcast before. It was glorious; I was routine trounced by older gamers - some just a few years older and some twice my age. I was back-stabbed, front-stabbed, betrayed, left for dead, and generally mistreated by the folks who taught me the game. And I loved it.
We used to joke that my friend Rob had a 'backstab gland' - some internal organ that would push him to turn on someone no matter how well he and his alliance might be doing. He felt that the game strongly encouraged that behavior.
Also in the 80's, I refereed my first Diplomacy tournaments at Strategicon Conventions. They were vicious games with the nastiest bunch of players filling out a two round tournament. 49 vicious players would fill a hotel conference room with 7 games so that one winner could go on to the final round from each table. That last table had the same guys frequently - the biggest snakes in L.A. gaming. It was wonderful to see these guys go at it; although many of the conversations were private, you could hear the way they were twisting things around to convince each other and lying through their teeth about the perceived value of a certain piece of land. The alliances didn't come easily with players at this level. How could you trust these people? I wasn't going to be able to play at the level these people were operating on but it was thrilling to listen in on their duplicitous discussions.
While I never got good enough to actually advance in the tournament to the final table, I believe the time I spent playing Diplomacy improved my negotiation skills immensely, taught me about how to measure risks, and how to be more conscious of ulterior motives in general. I believe that I owe a lot of my strengths in these areas to Allan and his wonderful game. Thank you and rest in peace, Mr. Calhamer. My condolences to his family and friends.
Category:general -- posted at: 7:39pm PDT
Wed, 30 January 2013
If there was a game in the entire series that I knew would go down well with the family, it was Royal Turf. One of the most approachable games in the entire Alea series, Royal Turf is light but interesting, has some opportunities to be nasty, and it plays quickly. I should preface this by saying that we traditionally cut the game down a bit even though it is pretty short. I'm ready to be done with it by the time we get through two races. Although a third race surely evens out the luck (or makes for a miserable final go for someone suffering a bad streak), I find that casual players are fine with two games - and we usually don't bother doubling the last one. Second, I would note that while I love the '0' bets to bluff others into thinking you might or might not favor a certain horse, I tend to leave it out for first time play and even a second play for some casual gamers. Does it seem like I love the game a bit less because I'm tinkering with the Good Doctor's sacred rules? Perish the thought - Royal Turf is a wonderful game that we always enjoy playing.
In this case, the Family Challenge took on an extra dimension - my parents played with us. We're lucky enough to have my parents just a mile and a half away and we regularly dine with them once a week. In years past, dinner was at their house and I always wanted to play a game after we ate. While I grew up in a card-playing family, my parents had never really gotten into 'These Games of Ours" despite my efforts. I mean, they played contract rummy - quite viciously - with my aunts and uncles all the time. Yet, when I showed them a few Gateway Games, they were reluctant. I can recall trying to convince my dad to play Ticket to Ride and him looking down his glasses at the plastic trains and smiling politely as he shook his head. Our usual tricks to lure people into the hobby were not working.
Finally, one night after our usual dinner, I brought out what I dubbed (to myself) a 'Pre-Gateway Game" - in other words, a game that even the most casual of card players couldn't really sneer at because it just had numbers and chips - no funny business. That game was Geschenkt (or No Thanks, if you prefer). I just slapped it on the table and told them we were going to play it. Thankfully, they sat down, listened to the rules politely. and ended up really enjoying the game. That was the beginning of a couple of happy years where we'd enjoy a weekly game or two with my parents after dinner while our kids played with whatever toys lived at the grandparents' house. Coloretto and Drive led to many others and, eventually, Mystery Rummy: Rue Morgue became the big hit. How I loved hearing my parents bicker when one would pass the other a questionable card. They were hilarious! We had such a great time every Tuesday night (surely the lousiest night of the week - but no more!). I even triumphantly got Ticket to Ride to the table...and they just loved it.
Unfortunately, this fun was cut short by my father's stroke five years ago. We are thankful to still have him in our lives but he's not what he once was. The games stopped and although my mother played the occasional game of cribbage with him, it was mostly just going through the motions. When I'd brought up the possibility again, my mother discouraged it and my father didn't respond. We starting dining out at restaurants for our weekly dinner, creating an environment less friendly to games even if it kept our traditional family dinner going.
But this week, we got takeout and ate at my parents' house and I took my chance to simply make it happen again. I knew I could do it if I was armed with the right game and Royal Turf was going to be it. My mother and father are horse racing fans (I grew up close to the storied Santa Anita Race Track), if casual ones, so I figured the theme could work. Furthermore, Royal Turf lends itself to 'helpful suggestions' by others since there is little hidden information so I figured we could help my Dad with the game if he got a bit lost. At the last minute, I canceled plans to have him play on a 'team' with my mom so we had the full complement of six players. The kids were excited to play, having been disappointed that we didn't play the other night when Wyatt Earp hit the table.
What ensued was some glorious racing fun. Though I did minimal explanation upfront (another notable plus for RT), everyone 'got' the game immediately and we dove right in. Three or four rolls in, my daughter and mother sorted out the value of 'trashing' another horse with a lousy roll - and the nastiness that my wife, son, and I had been doling out became more obvious. My father gleefully bet on the horses I deemed long-shots (Early Grey and Albino), only to see them snatch places in the Winner's Circle in both races. Darn me for only betting on old Earl Grey in one of the races - I almost always throw a chit on that old nag. In the second race, he was already comfortably ensconced in the 1st Place spot (with the pace bonus) while the rest were barely halfway around the track. Indeed, one of the most enjoyable parts of Royal Turf is when just the right roll comes up and a horse rockets ahead 13 to 15 spaces. I was reminded about how much I like the lopsided die, which heavily favors the horse head (3 to 1 of each other icon) and how that plays into the steady runners and long-shots. In this way, the game reminds me of the looseness of Ra because although you can work percentages out a bit, they don't seem worth it. Better to simply just take your shot and go with your gut on what to select. I love that in a game.
The intensity and negotiations were thrilling, with the kids coordinating rolls and figuring out the probability of success sometimes (unlike me, my son is a numbers guy through and through) - and perhaps over-directing my parents and their choices. But their advice was always reasonable - even if it occasionally favored their horses. Hey, I'm okay with it. I'm raising smart, dynamic kids that should know all the angles. They see their dad doing it, too (and gleefully trashing his wife's horses - hey, what can I say? She's cute when she's annoyed at me for a silly reason). It really makes a father proud to see them giving it their all.
In the end, Early Grey's second and then first place showings gave my father a nice margin of victory over my daughter and me. My son and wife scored dreadfully; only after the final count did I realize we neglected to deduct the 100 pound penalty for each bet on the last place horse. In this case, it would have only robbed the poor of their meager winnings so I turned a blind eye to the mistake. It occurred to me that this penalty feels kind of like a 'poor get poorer' situation - particularly with such a large number of players. With fewer, scores tend to be tighter (in my experience) and so smacking down a horse or two to drop someone into the last spot can be a good choice. In this case, it would have just seemed cruel. So, we ignored it and cheered on my father and his big win. He had left the table mid-game to get a Santa Anita hat on and attributed his success to his stylish chapeau. How's that for getting into the 'pasted-on' theme? Score one for Dr. Knizia.
The kids really enjoyed the game. Although my son did poorly, he enjoyed the minor wins (a horse of his coming in) and that reminded me of how a game can pump players up with in-game successes. Those little victories help make the game more enjoyable for young players even if the final outcome doesn't end up going their way. My son was immediately keen to play the game with friends, knowing the rules are not a burden for casual players and the game includes the activity most people associate with games - rolling dice. RT was way ahead of the curve on using dice in eurogames for this kind of situational luck (which offers more options than a Settlers roll). But, of course, Reiner has never felt a mechanism is bad; it's about the implementation. I'm glad others have come around to that idea because I quite like rolling dice. Yahtzee and Backgammon are just forever in my blood, I think.
I know I'll remember this night. I'm thrilled that Royal Turf let us recapture a wonderful tradition of playing games with my parents (and now the kids) after our weekly dinners. Although I can't really expect to play many more of the Alea titles with my parents, I'm really excited that we could share the experience of one of the lightest games in the series with them. RT ended up being a big hit that we know we will requested again - and you can bet that I will have another game under my arm when I go to my parents' house for dinner next time. Sometimes you just have to make those family traditions come alive again (or be born in the first place). You (and hopefully everyone) will always appreciate it in the end.
Category:general -- posted at: 9:58pm PDT
Fri, 25 January 2013
One of my gaming goals this year is to introduce my family to the entire Alea series of games (yes - the Big, Medium and Small box sets). It's a big list and some of the games are a bit more complex than the games we are usually playing with the kids but I'm partly doing this because I realized that my kids are suddenly 11 and 13 - well past the age to play most hobby games. Where did the tween years go? I let them slip by me and never made a good enough transition from the younger player games to the more serious stuff I generally prefer. We'll change that with this challenge.
I love the Alea series as both a gamer and a collector. Yes, other publishers put numbers on their boxes now but Alea were the originals to have that audacity - and no one has a library like this one. So, I'm going to see how far we get. My plan: Small to Big...but we won't stick to just doing them sequentially. I'm going to dip into the different sizes a bit but if I don't do them sequentially within the series, we'll end up with a bunch of clunkers at the end (yes, although the quality is pretty high, there are clunkers - but I'm not naming names...yet).
The Alea Series Challenge began tonight with Alea Small #1: Wyatt Earp. I'm a big fan of rummy-style games and Mike Fitzgerald's charming Mystery Rummy series (of which Wyatt Earp is an unofficial member) hits a sweet spot between the simple card play and some extra rules for interest. Although the conventional wisdom is that WE is best with three (MR: Rue Morgue, with its delightful partnership rules, is primo for four), the family played it tonight. Three rounds in, Gwyn and I were tied at $23K each (one K shy of the winning condition) after everyone but Xtina lost a big payout due to nasty Hideouts. The fourth round was vicious, with the Hideouts out again and more special cards putting a share in the big takes out of reach of the second place players. In the end, Gwyn triumphed on picking up the one big bounty from the previous round that hadn't paid out at all. Although the game ran a bit long because of the excess of Hideouts in the third round, it was a good experience and kept the kids engaged once they recalled the rules and felt they were in contention. Although we planned to hit Royal Turf as well, it got late so we called it a night. Off to a good start with the Small Box games...although I better read those Die Sieben Weisen rules again...
I'll surely do an official podcast at the end of the run but you can see my brief session reports until then.
Category:general -- posted at: 11:18pm PDT


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Your comment about people looking down on lightweight packers is funny but true. I've packed a lot of ways and have found packing light to be much more fun for me. I remember getting to camp at times with a heavier pack and couldn't wait to plop that bag down on the ground. Many times I will get to a camp and not even notice I have my pack on since it fits well and just isn't that much of a bother. I prefer the lightweight side through experience.My question this time is: we have a shakedown this weekend. I want to show them how the sump works but I don't really understand it completely. I would imagine you are supposed to strain any extra food on the frisbee and then I guess you could either burn or pack out that food. I guess it would be for leave no trace and bears. Do I have the concept right? Is there that much to strain after some fine scout has licked the bag clean?Thanks again. This site has helped us prepare for Philmont and its "ways".
I am not sure how you get from Philmont meat sauce to a CYANO-acrylate, and don't want to know! I didn't think their food was that bad ...I note the bit about washing up. After dinner I put a cup of water in the used cooking pot, add 2 drops of 'green' detergent, and warm it up. Then I wash all the cutlery we have (2 spoons, two knives), our 2 cups, our 2 bowls and finally the cooking pot itself, using a 2"x3" sponge (a few grams). My wife dries with a little cut-down tea towel as I pass things to her. This way we stay clean and healthy for months on end. The tea towel dries on a pack in the day.Trash bag - we use ONE second-hand bread bag for wet things like tea bags. It goes in a small nylon stuff sack which takes all the (shaken out and folded up) dry packages left over from the soup and freeze-dry. A 6" x 8" stuff sack will hold all our rubbish for a week, easily. And that is about as much weight of food as I normally want to carry.Freezer bag cooking is not really used in Europe or Australia. Too messy for our liking.Cheers
In bear country - like the Sierras - I use a Watchful Eye Designs OP (odor proof) sack for a trash bag, and I don't try to cram it into the bear can. I'll wash out dehydrated dinner packaging, but refuse to try to wash the smell out of all my empty candy/energy bar wrappers and the like. And after 2 hot days on the trail, even the best washed trash begins to odiforate. I've had Yosemite bears actually walk right past it in the dark and not notice it.
My question this time is: we have a shakedown this weekend. I want to show them how the sump works but I don't really understand it completely. I would imagine you are supposed to strain any extra food on the frisbee and then I guess you could either burn or pack out that food. I guess it would be for leave no trace and bears. Do I have the concept right? Is there that much to strain after some fine scout has licked the bag clean?Scott, I think I have the entire routine. Last year was my first trip, I'm not certain our ranger gave us the whole story ... but I've heard it many times from other more experienced folks.Your crew is issued:* a scotchbrite style scrub pad that you cut into a dozen postage stamp size pieces* approx quart sized ziplock style bags* campsuds* one "rubber bowl scraper"* the dreaded frisbeeAfter the evening meal:* one or more scouts pick the cook pot clean (eating as they go)* heat some water in the cook pot* pour a little hot water into each crew member's bowl/cup/whatever. They use that to loosen food particles and then drink the water (human sump). I avoided that by using a folding bowl and licking it clean (a habit that I have to watch myself lest I do it back in town)* two drops of camp suds into the cook pot (still has hot water in it) * use one of the postage stamp scrub pads to wash personal gear and cook pot* pour the wash water thru the frisbee into the sump* use the bowl scrubber to remove any food particles from the frisbee ... place the particles and scrub pad into a ziplock bag ... place ziplock into your garbage bagThe next meal you'll start by bringing water to a boil and dipping all personal eating gear in it.Concerning heavy packers "looking down on ultralighters" ... in reality, you'll be likely be looking down on them from above after you've walked past them resting on long climbs. I am far from fast and I wasn't even our crew's habitual caboose but we passed multiple other crews most days and were rarely passed.
Edited by jcolten on 06/24/2008 20:12:18 MDT.
This is an example of a Philmont meal.This is the meal unpacked.You can order the meals from Philmont in the fall. I would suggest ordering the meals, so your crew can practice.
Edited by tkknc on 07/03/2008 21:44:07 MDT.
I hit the trail at Philmont on 8-1 and am concerned about my morning cup of coffee. Here is what I know I can do.1. Pack enough Java Juice for the 10 or 11 days. I figure two packets per day.2. Grind my own beans ahead of time and use the french press feature on my Jetboil. The cleanup is not appealing though.3. Take Folgers coffee bags or instant. I see this as a last resort just because of the quality.Your suggestions are truly apprecited.Thanks
John, you're right in listing many ways to make coffee on the trail. There's an excellent article in BPL Magazine, issue #6 by Mike Clelland on trail coffee. Your french press will make the best coffee. But you're right in it being a hassle to clean. With the Jetboil it's also heavy. I use what Mike recommends -- carry coffee grounds and make cowboy coffee. After removing a 900 ml pot of boiling water from the fire, I add 2 heaping Tsp of coffee. I let sit it for 3-5 min then pour each cup through a MSR coffee filter basket. It's not a huge mess to clean. The coffee is good. The added weight is less than 1 oz for the filter and about 12 oz. for the coffee to be shared over 10 days. I will usually bring a pot cozy anyway. Java Juice is lighter but not as good. Instant ain't coffee.
john, i find if you let the Folgers coffee bags sit long enough in the boiling h2o, it's not bad..i use the back of my spoon to get the last of the coffee in the cup before letting the bags dry.. if you need to get going in the a.m. hang the bags on the outside of your pack until totally dry. the weight is marginal and you are not having to throw grounds where bears might be. as far as the freezer bag cooking, it does work. i purchased the book to make my own meals. quite tasty....and a lot cheaper, too.
Edited by clt1953 on 07/05/2008 07:38:29 MDT.
John,They had a supply of some kind of instant at the advisors meeting the first night we were in base camp that some of the guys took advantage of and all the staffed camps have advisors coffee in the evenings (although that doesn't help in the mornings). I've also heard of people taking chocolate covered expresso beans. I think you can get them at the Tooth of Time trading post in base camp.I was concerned about the same thing. My main concern was the time it took in the mornings to prepare it (fire up the stove, get the coffee out of the bear bags and cleanup). We tried to hit the trail early so timing was an issue.After considering the alternatives, I just quit drinking coffee for a month before we departed. I was surprised that I didn't miss it at all while I was there. One of our other advisors didn't drink it while he was there and he didn't seem to miss it either. YMMVI'm sure enjoying a nice hot cup right now though!Johnp.s. are you the John Meeks in Dallas?
Phil, we're headed out this afternoon. Will see you on the top of Mt. Phillips.Mike
I took Java Juice last year, and had "cowboy coffee" in some of the staffed camps during "advisors coffee". I ended up finding that the Java Juice was often better than the very-uneven results made by the staff, especially the younger ones.
Thanks to everyone that weighed in on this critical subject. Today my wife administered a blind taste test between Nescafe Taster's Choice Gourmet Roast (instant), Java Juice (concentrate), and Maxwell House Coffee Bags (like tea bags). As you can see, I spend WAY to much time thinking about coffee, but with all other gear ready and acquired this is a good way to spend the restless time waiting to get out to Philmont. It is hard to admit, but the Nescafe won out on flavor and aroma. Also, there would be no trash, no clean-up with instant, and it's the lightest weight option. To truly put this to the test I will take this on our last shake-down this weekend. Thanks again for the feedback!
Sorry to peek into this thread a little late. I was on Yahoo checking out sites linking to www.aforkinthetrail.com and this thread came up.I don't do FBC but there also isn't a ton of cleanup with my style of cooking. Anyway if you have any questions I am at your disposal. :)
We just got back and had coffee everyday except maybe 3 days. I made a cheesecloth bag that had a drawstring closure on the top, (the cheesecloth was triple layer) and then put a coffee filter into the bag. Added freshly ground,(right before leaving anyways) coffee, (whoo my pack smelled intitally!) and put in water right away. Boiled water for about a minute then let sit. Man, what a trail treat in the morning.
Our crew just got back from Philmont this monthwere we used a new lightweight food preparation method we had come up with and practiced with actual Philmont meals before leaving for the Ranch.This super efficient meal preparation technique not only minimizes clean up and gray water produced (none), it also minimizes the amount of trash produced, the amount of fuel used (we used two 8oz canisters per week with some left over), and the amount of water needed (important in dry camps of which we had a couple). The Philmont foil packages are used to cook and eat out of.The amount of trash generated is only the meal packagesthat Philmont gives the crew.Details can be found at http://www.csm.ornl.gov/~geist/Philmont/
I leave for Philmont on Monday. We are bringing Starbucks Via instant coffee packets. I've been using them on my treks this year and think that it is the best solution that I've used in my many decades of backpacking. I have 24 packets in my backpack so that I can have 2 cups of hot coffee every morning!We are also using the "turkey bag" cooking method to save the cleanup work. My wife made some large cozies that we'll use with the turkey bags.My crew is all trained in the UL ways and every member is packing light. I think the heaviest pack in the crew is about 22 pounds. We're going on trek #27. We are bringing our own light weight crew gear and will take on no extra gear from Philmont other than bear bags.In my conversations with many other Scout leaders that have either gone to Philmont or are going this year I received a lot of push back on using ultra light techniques. I had several adults proudly tell me how they went to Philmont with a 55 pound pack. These guys are completely insane. On the flip side I have also evangelized several people into using UL packing and they reported back as having a great experience. It is interesting how so many people have a very negative view of lightweight packing.
Wes, have a great time! I took Via this summer (3 a day). It is a good way to go. Hope all your crew does well with the lightweight kit. Let us know how it goes.All the best,Phil
Wes noted: "I had several adults proudly tell me how they went to Philmont with a 55 pound pack. These guys are completely insane." You nailed it! After about day 4 when the real miles and vertical came into play, it seemed like the heavyweights got interested in lightweight gear.The heaviest pack of our group this year was 32 lbs, most were 24-28 leaving base camp w/ food, crew gear and water. We were told by our sister crew we were wimps, amongst several other choice adjectives BPL would surely censor. Ironically about day 4, they wanted to swap packs. Theirs were 55-70 lbs. Our technogeeks clocked them at about 1.7 mph average for the trip. We averaged 2.9 for the entire trip, including up and down Baldy.After the 3rd day, they started giving up activities to try to beat us to the next camp. The last day they left at 3:45 AM from Ponderosa Park. We still beat them into base camp, by hiking much faster clearly due to lightweight gear, reasonable planning, having a navigator that could really navigate, not taking rediculously long breaks and not getting lost.I guess "real men" as they put it, waste a lot of time on the trail and can't hike very fast. Proud to be a Lightweight Wimp!MikeB
I think the thought is that a heavier pack means you are more macho than the next guy. A heavy pack doesn't feel all that heavy in your living room. After all, you do have a chair, 3 changes of clothes, pots, pans, lanterns, bivouac equip., storm rated tents, 1.5 lb. footprints, C Cell Maglites, towels, leather (not ankle turner) boots, 4 pairs of heavy wool socks, and many more items that make you will feel just like you are at home.I was amazed at the old school approach at Philmont. However, if you do read the Philmont handbook it stresses lightening one's pack weight. They suggest a total of 35 lbs. The only problem is, people think that means 35 lbs. BEFORE you get there and add troop gear, food and water. That's why in the UL crowd BASE weight is stressed so religiously. Keep the base weight low and the overall weight will not be too hard; even at Philmont. I told the boys and the leaders to pack like they were just going on a 4 day hike. One of our leaders was 63 years old. He could not thank me enough for having spent the time with everyone to teach them the techniques we have all learned here on this website. He had given up on backpacking. It was a big payoff.On our final day we kept picking off crew after crew. Our loads were at their lightest and we were just cruising. Other crews would just pull to the side of a set of switchbacks when they saw us coming with what must have seemed to them a bunch of scouts wearing day packs. It was fun. One troop tried to overtake us from behind on the way down from Tooth of Time but finally gave up. Lightweight at Philmont is the only way to go! Wimps rule!!!
There are much better ways to prove your machismo than a heavy backpack. Like chasing cheerleaders. Ha!
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By C.J. MCMANUSSun Advocate reporter
The 2007 Relay for Life will be presented June 15 and June 16 at the College of Eastern Utah track.
The event is an 18-hour walk to raise money to fight cancer.
The relay will begin at 5 p.m. on Friday and conclude at 11 a.m. on Saturday.
According to project organizer Ruth Metzger, Carbon County residents may register teams to participate in the event at the Jan. 17 kickoff, where the theme for the 2007 relay will be unveiled.
"The American Cancer Society appreciates all our community does to raise funds to fight cancer. To show our appreciation the ACS has established an incentive program to reward participants hard work. These incentives can be earned individually or as a team," said Metzger.
All registration fees and proceeds from the fundraising activities will go directly to the ACS and support programs for individuals suffering from cancer.
"In 2006, we had 23 teams ranging from families, to businesses, to faith based teams and they raised almost $60,000. We would like to see all of last year's teams return and bring a new team to the 2007 event. There will be room to camp overnight and entertainment and food will be provided," continued Metzger.
Consisting of eight to 15 individuals, teams are asked to have at least one member on the track for the entire event. A registration fee is required and residents may contact Metzger at 650-4552 for details.
Relay for Life is also looking for sponsors and supporters.
"Any size of donation is welcome, come out and support the American Cancer Society," stated Metzger.
The Relay for Life began in Tacoma, Wash., as the City of Destiny Classic 24-hour run against cancer.
In the mid-1980's, Dr. Gordy Klatt, a Tacoma colorectal surgeon, wanted to enhance the income of the local American Cancer Society office.
The surgeon decided to personally raise money for the oranization's fight against cancer by running marathons.
In May 1985, Klatt spent 24 hours circling the track at sity of Puget Sound in Tacoma for more than 83 miles.
Throughout the night, friends paid $25 to run or walk 30 minutes with the surgeon.
He raised $27,000 to fight cancer.
While Klatt circled the track, he thought about how other people could take part in raising money to fight cancer. He envisioned a 24-hour team relay event that could raise more money to fight cancer.
Several months later, the Tacoma surgeon pulled together a small committee to plan the first team relay event.
The event was known as the City of Destiny Classic 24- hour Run Against Cancer.
In 1986, 19 groups took part in the first team relay event staged on the track at the Stadium Bowl and the participants raised $33,000 for the American Cancer Society.
Today, the Relay for Life is on overnight community event for everyone whose lives have been touched by cancer.
In addition to participating in the relay, teams may sell luminaria to honor cancer survivors and loved ones who have lost the battle against the disease.
An inspiring luminaria ceremony will be presented as part of the 2007 Relay for Life event, concluded Metzer.


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Nothing more than a grown up Chocolate Coke, make yourself the simple Piranha Cocktail.#10949
Strawberry Margarita Punch is the perfect Summer party drink! So easy to make for a crowd. Delicious!#10945
Fresh and fruity sangria made with white wine, triple sec, oranges and lemons#10944
Refresh yourself on a hot summer day with a mojito, the classic lime-and-mint cocktail flavored with fresh cherries and pomegranate juice!#10937
Big Ginger Float Cocktail with Lime Sherbet, 2 Gingers Irish Whiskey, refreshing, perfect for the summer#10936
Southern Belle: bourbon, homemade strawberry vanilla jam, Benedictine and strawberry infused Cocchi Americano.#10934
New Twist on a NOLA Classic: Almond Lavender Bourbon Milk Punch from the Kitchy Kitchen#10933
Pear nectar, cream of coconut, rum and club soda - a great combination for a summery cocktail#10924
Georgia meet Bermuda: island rum and sweet tea flavored with fresh peaches.#10923
Margarita Punch: the perfect make-ahead drink for your next party, BBQ, or picnic.#10915
It doesn't get any easier than this. Deep Eddy Ruby Red infused vodka and soda.#10912
Summer Berry Vodka Granita, part dessert, part cocktail with strawberries, blueberries and a surprise ingredient!#10911
Stone delivers the hops in a session-strength IPA - it really is a Go To beer for summer!#10910
Cherries and basil are combined to make a surprisingly delicious, refreshing summertime vodka cocktail#10909
Garden to Glass Sous Vide Bloody Mary. Made with Fresh Beefsteak Tomatoes, Fresh Lemon Peel, and Whole Spices for a refreshing take on the classic Bloody Mary!#10908
Berry Wine Spritzer: This refreshing summer beverage has fresh berries and white wine.#10905


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Thanksgiving Troubleshooting Tips: Turkey Gravy Too Thin
Help! My Turkey Gravy's Too Thin
One of the biggest turkey day blunders is gravy — probably due to the fact that it isn't exactly regular meal rotation. If your gravy's runnier than water, begin by simmering the sauce over medium-high heat, stirring it frequently with the lid off in an effort to reduce the water content.
If you don't see results within 10 minutes, whisk in a couple tablespoons of roux of equal parts flour and water, continually stirring over medium heat to cook off any starchy flavors. Worried about a last-minute disaster? Then try a recipe for make-ahead gravy — or, if all else fails, there's always cranberry sauce as a condiment.
Worried that your turkey's too dry? Gravy's too lumpy? Bread doesn't rise? Then write us in the YumSugar Community to get that problem solved!
Source: Flickr User Ben30


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Thursday, November 5, 2009
A Year of Schnibbles | September
First thing to catch up on is my September (yes, I know it's already November 5th) Year of Schnibbles quilt. I'm sure you've heard of the Year of Schnibbles by now. The brainchild of Sinta and Sherry, A Year of Schnibbles is a challenge (maybe more of an invitation) to complete one of Carrie Nelson's Schnibbles patterns each month for the next 12 months. I've always admired those patterns but never made one, so I was excited to jump in.
The first pattern for the month of September was called Winter White. It seemed like a great pattern, and I immediately knew that I was going to dip into my stash of Tula Pink's Nest line to make mine.
I scrambled to get it done in time (nothing like a deadline to keep you motivated) so that it could be included in Sinta & Sherri's monthly Parade of Schnibbles for September. As you can see, I didn't get it quilted and bound in time -- and it still isn't -- but I'm going to try to tackle it soon because I really like how this one came out!
Unfortunately, I didn't get to play along in October (when Cindy Lou Who was the selected pattern), and it's not looking good for November (Picnic) either. That's OK, though -- I don't need to make every one. I think I'll dip in and out based on the selected pattern and how the month's shaping up. There are quite a few Schnibbles patterns that I'm excited to make and hope will be in the rotation.
Oh, and did I mention there are prizes and giveaways involved? If you're not already participating in the Year of Schnibbles project, I encourage you to check it out. It's great fun.
Finally, to my dear readers: I miss you guys! How are you doing? What's new? What'cha working on? Anyone else (besides me) both looking forward to -- and stressing out -- about the holidays already?
26 comments:
Love the quilt anyway!!!! I didn't get my first two done either, but I AM going to do Picnic.ReplyDelete
You quilt top is great. I didn't make the deadline for the September Winter White. I'm just finished the quilting today and hope to get the binding done later today or tomorrow. I finished only the top for the Cindy Lou Who quilt. I love the way it turned out. I just have to quilt it now. Don't worry if it's not all quilted in time. Even if you have only the top done, or the center panel done, enter it anyways. It's amazing to see all the different quilts using the same pattern. Thanks for sharing yours. It's wonderful.ReplyDelete
The quilt looks lovely--it'll be awesome whenever it's finished!ReplyDelete
You're not alone in stressing for the holidays already--I have 15 people coming to my tiny house for Thanksgiving. Yikes! Good thing that a) this was my month to "send" for my bee, instead of "doing", b) I only have one mini to make and swap and c) I have a brother who works in food service and is pitching in to help me out!!
Glad to see you're still around, though, John! BTW, in my spare moments, I'm still plugging away at my wonky log cabins--can't wait until my Xmas (and wedding, and baby) gifts are finished so I can go back to doing whatever I want!
Love your Schnibbles! I did make September and October and it has been so much fun. Having a deadline seems to keep me motivated. However, there is no pressure...join in when you can.ReplyDelete
I like that Schnibble! I have a few small things that I am working on right now, but I find myself starting new things before finishing others, because I am having trouble binding my quilts! I think I need to take a class or two :)ReplyDelete
welcome back... i have picnic done.. so this month is easy for me!! i love your nest quilt... but you knew that would happen!! {i found nest flannels on sale in my travels earlier this month...yummy!!!}ReplyDelete
Have to say again that I love this quilt! The quilts don't have to be quilted to be in the parade...and we are going to have a special drawing at the end for those who finished all 12...even if late! Thanks for playing along!ReplyDelete
Oh the holidays! I can't wait!ReplyDelete
but I have sooo many projects I want to make--soooo little time ;)
Hi John,ReplyDelete
hmmm did note you were MIA! you always have such inspiring quilts on your blog. But life does get away with all of us from time to time. I just love this quilt top, and the colours are so yummy. I have been following the Schnibbles projects over the last few months, and there is some exquisite work going on out there, not to mention how much fun everyone is having.
Huh. I never like the schnibbles patterns, but now that I've seen yours I'm realizing its because Carrie and I have very different tastes in fabric. And I thought I was good at imagining quilts in different fabric...ReplyDelete
Nice to see you back John. That quilt is beautiful.ReplyDelete
I'm in complete denial about the upcoming holidays, at least we don't have Thanksgiving to deal with, but I do have hubby's birthday to think about. That's just the first one, then is big boy's (19, wow), and then after the dreaded Xmas the middle one (14). Tiring just thinking about it.
Looking forward to seeing some more blog posts :-)
Sounds like you need to joinReplyDelete
Tallgrass Prairie in her "Joy in the New Year".
It's sort of a challenge to see how many UFOs you can finish.
I thought you might like to read about it:
Sounds nice!
Me StrESsed over the holidays? N N Never! I have plenty of time to start and finish my 3 remaining projects... Oh great, when did November get here? Anywho, Its nice to know you're alive and kickin'..ReplyDelete
That quilt is fantabulous! So all is forgiven.ReplyDelete
huh? did you say somethin? I was too bedazzled by that beautiful schnibble...lol!ReplyDelete
Your quilt turned out wonderful! I love your fabric selection.ReplyDelete
What a beaut John... It looks awesome!ReplyDelete
Can't wait for Christmas but it's only 7 weeks away! Eeek - so much to do, so little time!
Have a great weekend!
I really enjoy reading your blog , though I haven't posted often. I always liked traditional quilting and didn't really like the quirky and different until I started reading your blog.I've changed my attitude toward that thanks to you. I think you are most of an inspiration to your readers than you know. There is just something about the way you put the unexpected together that really seems to work.Keep up the good work and I can't wait to see what else you have instore for your readers.I have been doing more cross stitching than quilting in the recent months , but I am needing a quilting fix. Winter's coming on and would be a great time to do it. Take care!ReplyDelete
Wow, beautiful! I am new to your blog, got the link from The Happy Needle's blogroll. And suprise to see you're in Cary! I'm not but an hour or so from you. I don't quilt but I look forward to seeing more of your lovely work!ReplyDelete
I love your quilt top! You have a great talent - thanks for sharing, and best of luck to you - especially over the holidays. I joined the "Joy in the New Year Challenge" maybe that deadline will help finish some projects.ReplyDelete
I have only just discovered your blog! I have so many IDEAS and you really inspire me! I think I may try this Schnibbles thing to keep me motivated. I am expecting twins and I want to make 2 quilts before they're born and one more for my husband to take when he deploys next year. I don't know how to get it all done, so its nice to know I"m not the only one who gets behind on projects. Keep up the good work! and Thanks!ReplyDelete
Great little quilt, just darling in those colours too! Me stressed? Nooooooo, I only have 2 twin quilts to complete before Nov 18th, and a queen size quilt to piece and finish for Christmas, November already! Why am I still here! be right back soon lolReplyDelete
Oh I love the brightness on the quilt!ReplyDelete
I think everyone is going crazy this year...things are just nuts...and blogging takes a backseat. I'm trying to get things back in order too! glad you are back.
What a georgous quilt!ReplyDelete
Your quilting is amazing. I don't quilt much these days, I went back to my passion of cross stitching. I see you are from brooklyn, I am from NY. Love your work.ReplyDelete
Gorgeous quilt top and good luck with your scnibbling (is that even a word?!)ReplyDelete
Still working on a Linus quilt which I hope will be done by christmas. 2 minutes here and there isn't long enough really :(


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The Vatican Prepares For The Departure Of Pope Benedict XVI
The dome of St. Peter is seen from the Aventino on February 26, 2013... NyhetsfotoAndlighet,Dom,Horisontell,Italien,Kulturer,Livsstil,Mänskligt intresse,Religion,Resande,Rom - ItalienPhotographer Giorgio CosulichCollection: Getty Images News 2013 Giorgio CosulichROME, ITALY - FEBRUARY 26: The dome of St. Peter is seen from the Aventino on February 26, 2013 in Rome, Italy. The Pontiff will hold his last weekly public audience on February 27, 2013 before he retires the following day. Pope Benedict XVI has been the leader of the Catholic Church for eight years and is the first Pope to retire since 1415. He cites ailing health as his reason for retirement and will spend the rest of his life in solitude away from public engagements. (Photo by Giorgio Cosulich/Getty Images)