text:
Robot McDonald's Staff 'Cheaper' than Hiring Human Workers at Minimum Wage
Workers at McDonald's and other fast food industries have been whining lately that they deserve a $15/hr minimum wage. Now it appears that if that happens, the human workers might get replaced by robots. It would seem that that at McDonald's, a robot staffer is cheaper than a malcontent human one. I bet the robots can make change as well and have a better attitude. Who would have thought they were cheaper? Hmm, I did. For years I have been saying, the more folks whine about getting a "living wage" of $15 per hour, they more they would be replaced by machine.
A former McDonald's CEO is warning that robots will take over jobs at the huge enterprise – because it's cheaper than employing humans.
He said that buying highly skilled robotics is cheaper than employing people at the fast food restaurant.
The worrying forecast comes as he warns huge job losses are imminent, and that it's 'common sense' to replace humans in the workplace.
This comes as a study into the future of human employment has predicted a surge in machine-led work such as robotic counsellors, body part makers and virtual lawyers.
The worrying research, by professor of management practice at London Business School, Lynda Gratton, and futurologist David A. Smith, suggests that humans will be replaced because robots are able to produce better results.
I think the exact words of warning to those complaining about wanting their pay to be doubled for doing a job that required little to no skill level was the following. By the way, minimum was meant to be a starter job, not your destination and to afford a home and children.
A note to the "Fight for 15? crowd … DON'T ASK FOR THINGS THEY MIGHT COME TRUE. If this BS is actually passed, all of you making $7.25 will most likely be fired and more competent people worthy of $15/hr will be taking your place. Or, if it were me I would automate the system and completely eliminate your position. How difficult would it be to replace order takers with kiosks both inside and outside to go? And sliding your credit or debit card into a machine to pay like at a gas station? Actually, I am surprised this has not been completely done already.
Posted May 25, 2016 by Scared Monkeys
Business, Capitaism, Economy, Jobs, Layoff - Fired, Minimum Wage, Outsourcing Jobs, Unemployment | 3 comments
ESPN Fires Baseball Analyst Curt Schilling Fired Over Transgender Offensive Social Media Post
ESPN is an inclusive company, Really? Only if you think and toe the liberal intolerant line they are …
Remember when ESPN meant Entertainment and Sports Programming Network. It has now become the liberal Entertainment and Sports Politically-correct Network)
ESPN has finally done something that they have wanted to do for quite some time, they have fired ESPN analyst Curt Schilling. At the center of this controversy was a post that showed an overweight man wearing a wig and women's clothing with parts of the T-shirt cut out to expose his breasts. It says: "LET HIM IN! to the restroom with your daughter or else you're a narrow-minded, judgmental, unloving racist bigot who needs to die." ESPN has sadly become nothing more than liberal sports TV. If someone voices and opinion or makes a statement against a conservative, that is fine. However, dare go against their liberal values and you face the PC police and get fired. I think Powerline might be on to something, Trump may want to think about adding Schilling to the ticket. A note to all the other networks, you have an opening for sports network programming, take it. Many of us who have been with ESPN from their inception are sick and tired of their politics.
Curt Schilling, a former All-Star pitcher and one of the highest-profile baseball analysts on ESPN, was fired from the network Wednesday, a day after he drew intense criticism for promoting offensive commentary on social media.
Schilling, who had worked for the network since 2010 and most recently offered analysis on "Monday Night Baseball," was dismissed after sharing a Facebook post this week that appeared to respond to the North Carolina law that bars transgender people from using bathrooms and locker rooms that do not correspond with their birth genders.
The post showed an overweight man wearing a wig and women's clothing with parts of the T-shirt cut out to expose his breasts. It says: "LET HIM IN! to the restroom with your daughter or else you're a narrow-minded, judgmental, unloving racist bigot who needs to die."
To that, Schilling added: "A man is a man no matter what they call themselves. I don't care what they are, who they sleep with, men's room was designed for the penis, women's not so much. Now you need laws telling us differently? Pathetic."
"ESPN is an inclusive company," ESPN said in a statement. "Curt Schilling has been advised that his conduct was unacceptable and his employment with ESPN has been terminated."
Curt Schilling comments at 38 pitches, The hunt to be offended …
ESPN claims they are an inclusive company, but they are everything but with their liberal intolerance and pandering to political correctness. Imagine inclusive to be defined as only what we believe in. Yup, really inclusive. As Powerline opines, Inclusive? Of course, as Orwell understood, "inclusive" now means exactly the opposite: it means demonizing anyone who dissents from the orthodoxy of the identity-politics left. Like someone who believes human nature is real.The reality is that most individuals in America and viewers of ESPN have the same common sense beliefs about bathrooms. So maybe the Entertainment Sports Programming Network that has become way over the top liberal is saying that 95% of their viewership should be fired too and go elsewhere? You will remember, this is the same sports channel that recently gave
Bruce Caitlyn Jenner the Arthur Ashe Courage Award over other more deserved individuals. They previous year ESPN gave the same award to Michael Sam. Hmm, I am sensing a trend here. And this is also the same PC-inclusive company that reprimanded the same Curt Schilling over calling Muslim extremists, Nazis. You mean they are not?
Posted April 21, 2016 by Scared Monkeys
ESPN, Layoff - Fired, LGBT, Liberal Intolerance, Liberals, Media, Sports | one comment
6 Year Old Chelsea Klepzig, First Grader Dragged Nearly a Mile by School Bus in Forsyth County, NC
6 year old Chelsea Klepzig is lucky to be alive after being dragged for nearly a mile by a school bus in Forsyth County, North Carolina. According to Chelsea's parents, the first grader at Union Cross Elementary School, was dragged down Pine Meadow Drive by her school bus after the bus driver closed the door on her arm as the 6 year old got off the bus. Not only did the cluless bus driver not see the little girl stuck in the door, but they also paid no attention to the flashing lights of Estrella Klepzig, Chelsea's grandmother, who was following the bus trying to get his attention. Thankfully, the bus finally stopped. Chelsea Klepzig suffered only minor injuries.
Watch VIDEO HERE via KFOR
A child was dragged by a school bus for nearly a mile in Forsyth County on Monday afternoon.
According to Highway Patrol, the incident was dispatched as a "child drug by school bus" at 3:43 p.m. Monday.
Chelsea Klepzig, 6, a first grader at Union Cross Elementary School, was dragged down Pine Meadow Drive by her school bus.
Chelsea's parents say her grandmother was waiting for Chelsea to get off the bus when the bus driver closed the door on her arm.
On Tuesday, Theo Helm, chief of staff with Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, commented on the incident and stated, first and foremost they are "so thankful the student is OK and it was not worse." According to accounts, the bus driver was a substitute bus driver employed by the school system since 2000 and he has been suspended without pay and recommended for dismissal. You think!!!
Posted December 9, 2015 by Scared Monkeys
Child Endangerment, Child Welfare, Education, Elementary School, Layoff - Fired, WTF, You Tube - VIDEO | no comments
McDonald's Fires Employee Who Threw Water on Homeless Man … From The Peeps who Want $15/Hr
Simply unbelievable, sick and pathetic. A McDonald's worker has been fired after a video was made public of the fast food worker threw water on a homeless man in Detroit. The McDonald's employee tricked a homeless man into thinking he would get food through the drive-through and instead threw water at him as a friend video-taped the entire sick prank from his vehicle. UNREAL. It is bad enough some one would do something like this, but to then be so ignorant to have it video-taped. Who would ever hire this individual?
I just wonder if this story would have been made much more had the employee been white. Yes, the homeless individual was a black man. Then there is the other side of the story that fools like this fired employee think they deserve $15 an hour. Guess what Dog, you are nor getting zero!
Warning this video has graphic language, racial slurs.
A Detroit McDonald's employee who tricked a homeless man into thinking he would get food through the drive-through and instead threw water at him has been fired amid outrage after a video of the incident went viral.
The owner of the McDonald's on Grand River near Schaefer on the city's west side confirmed in a statement today that the employee was terminated.
"I am very disturbed by the inappropriate behavior of this employee," said McDonald's franchisee Wise Finley. "This type of behavior is not tolerated in my organization. I expect my employees to treat everyone with dignity and respect, and this was unacceptable. This individual no longer works for my organization."
Tasha Gray, executive director of the Homeless Action Network of Detroit, shared in the outrage over the video.
"I think we forget sometimes that people experiencing homelessness are just like you and I," she said. "We have working families who just don't have enough means to make ends meet. I like to tell my staff that we're one missed paycheck away from homelessness."
In the video, shot by someone in a vehicle at the drive-up window, the worker calls over to an elderly man he calls Willie, saying he was going to give him a sandwich. At first, Willie refuses and curses at the worker, but after the employee held up a sandwich for Willie to see, Willie comes over.
Then the worker tosses a cup of water on Willie while the driver in the car recording the video laughs.
Posted November 12, 2015 by Scared Monkeys
Business, Layoff - Fired, WTF, You Tube - VIDEO | one comment
Whataburger in Lewisville, Texas in Tells Two Police Officers the Restaurant had a Policy of not Serving Cops
A cashier at a Whataburger restaurant in Lewisville, Texas finds themselves in the frying pan as two police officers were allegedly told that the restaurant had a policy of not serving cops. REALLY? What the hell is going on in this country where we are continually seeing these acts of disrespect from restaurants where they are either refusing to serve police officers or in some cases let them use the restrooms? Two north Texas officers, Michael Magovern and Cameron Beckham, were working off-duty security at a construction site when they decided to grab something to eat and entered the Whataburger. The men were in uniform when they entered the restaurant and before he even got to the counter the man said, "We don't serve police officers." UNREAL. The manager tried to back peddle from his initial comment and apologize, but the damage had been done.
I guess we know how many people feel and the disrespect of people. I wonder what would happen if this same employee was denied service? Needless to say, the individual who made this pathetic comment as been fired. Free speech has consequences, doesn't it?
A Whataburger location in Lewisville, Texas is under fire after a cashier allegedly told two police officers that the restaurant had a policy of not serving cops.
According to a local Fox affiliate, officers Michael Magovern and Cameron Beckham stopped by the location while working night shifts at a nearby construction site. But before they could order, the man working the counter told them, "We don't serve police officers."
Given that Whataburger is a Texas staple– and Texas is not exactly a hotspot of anti-police furor– the incident received widespread coverage in local media and flooded Whataburger's Facebook with angry comments. "This is my favorite place to eat and to hear that one of your establishments refused service to an officer is appalling," reads one complaint. "I hope y'all can make it right…"
UPDATE I: The Whataburger restaurant has fired the employee and the company released the following statement:
"We were appalled to hear of an employee refusing service to two officers, as we have proudly served first responders across our system for decades. As soon as we heard of this isolated incident, we began our own internal investigation overnight. The employee that refused service is no longer employed with Whataburger. We've also invited the officers back today so we can apologize in person and make this right."
Posted September 17, 2015 by Scared Monkeys
Law Enforcement, Layoff - Fired, WTF, You Tube - VIDEO | 2 comments
NBC Fires Donald Trump for Un-PC Comments on Illegal Immigration But Keeps News Anchor Lying Brian Williams
Look what happens when you dare take a position that goes against the liberal MSM. NBC has cut ties with Donald Trump following the comments the Donald made over a week ago when he announced his candidacy for the president of the United States. NBC stated that the network will no longer air the annual Miss USA and Miss Universe pageants that were part of a joint venture with Trump. NBC stated in a press release that, "At NBC, respect and dignity for all people are cornerstones of our values. Due to the recent derogatory statements by Donald Trump regarding immigrants, NBCUniversal is ending its business relationship with Mr. Trump." Hmm, really? NBC has respect and dignity for all people, who knew? Unless you are a Conservative, member of the Tea Party, or anyone who dare disagree with the liberal agenda.
NBC is ending its business relationship with Donald Trump over his recent comments about Mexican immigrants.
"At NBC, respect and dignity for all people are cornerstones of our values," NBC said in a statement. "Due to the recent derogatory statements by Donald Trump regarding immigrants, NBCUniversal is ending its business relationship with Mr. Trump."
The network will no longer air the annual Miss USA and Miss Universe pageants that were part of a joint venture with Trump, the statement added. Its relationship with "Celebrity Apprentice" will continue, as Trump ceased his involvement with the reality show during his presidential bid.
The real estate mogul and 2016 presidential candidate has faced criticism for comments he made during his announcement speech earlier this month.
Donald Trump: NBC will stand behind 'lying' Brian Williams, but it won't stand behind me
What about NBC's values regarding telling the truth? I guess that is not high on their list or a cornerstone of their values. Isn't it quite telling about NBC that they would fire Donald Trump for speaking his opinion, yet NBC kept news anchor, "lying" Brian William after it had been documented that he had lied too many times to keep track while reporting the news. But that is OK and keeping in line with NBC values. Because that showed dignity and respect. This is the same network that also employees Al Sharpton, who has made fabricated comments as well.
Posted June 30, 2015 by Scared Monkeys
Brian Williams, Donald Trump, Donald Trump, Double Standard, Gutter Politics, Layoff - Fired, Liberal Intolerance, Liberals, Media, Media Bias, NBC, Politics, Presidential Contenders, Progressives | 4 comments
F&R Auto Sales of Westport, MA Belittles, Humiliates and Attempt to Get Pizza Delivery Driver Fired over Presumed $7 Tip … Major Internet Backlash Against F&R Auto Sales Over Posting Video
The following sorry might just be a public service announcement to never do business with F&R Auto Sales in Westport, Massachusetts. As the story goes according to the Boston Globe, that has now went viral thanks to the idiots at F&R Auto Sales posting the video on-line, a pizza delivery man dropped off the order from Palace Pizza totaling $42 and change. They gave Jarrid Tansey, the delivery man, $50, that included two $20′s and two $5 bills. Any normal thinking person would think that if you are giving more than the cost of the order, especially with a delivery order, the overage amount would be a tip. So thought Jarrid Tansey as he left the used car lot. Oh but no, not for the jerks at F&R Auto, the dealership called the pizza place back and forced him to return the $7 and change,leaving the man without any tip. The confrontation was captured on video.
The owner of the delaership supposed apologized to the pizza restaurant. Sorry dude, you are probably going to have to go further than that.
After a back and forth conversation whether the pizza delivery man was respectful and the folks at the used car dealership far from it, Tansey left. As he walked out the door, one brave female employee said, "Out the door before I put my foot in your ass." Really? One can only imagine what they say about their customers when you walk out the door. Not to be outdone, at the end of the video, some self-important dude wants to cause further trouble and threatens to get the person fired saying, "Get the f*cking owner and the manager on the phone, I want that mother-f*cker done. I want him fired." Hmm, Really? Maybe it is you that should be fired?
A note to F&R Auto Sales, you mess with the bull, you get the horns. To the jerks at F&R Auto Sales who asked like such idiots and maliciously wanted to get this pizza delivery man fired who was just trying to do his job in s respectful manner, maybe it might just be you who should be fired. Who the hell do you self-important, self-righteous asses think you are? You are used car sales people. Also, it is exactly this type of behavior that causes retaliations that may escalate far worse than tough talk in an office and acting all big and bad. You may not want to try and screw with someones job in this day and age, you might just get blow-back that you never wanted.
Needless to say the reviews on YELP and Google for F&R Auto Sales have much to be desired. The Raw Story points out that there are even complaints against this business even before the pizza backlash, areview from October of this year said, "I do not know how this place is still in business with all the people they scammed." Maybe the owner of F&R Auto Sales would have his employees read, "Used Car Sales for Dummies" because belittling, harassing and hassling a minimum wage worker who is in the same sales industry as you over $7.00 and in doing so decimating your used car business is brilliant. Way to go geniuses! Of course that is before you fire all of them yourself.
Warning – Adult Language
The delivery man in the video is an employee at Palace Pizza named Jarrid Tansey, according to two employees there. Lianette Hernandez, a cook and cashier, and Adam Willoughby, a manager, confirmed the video came from an interaction at the nearby dealership F&R Auto Sales on Saturday.
The total bill for the pizza and drinks was just over $42, Hernandez said, and dealership workers gave Tansey $50 in two twenties and two fives. In the video, Tansey says he confirmed that they wanted to give the whole $50, and then left with what he assumed was a $7-and-change tip.
However, the dealership then called the pizza place back and forced him to return the $7-and-change, and he was left without a tip, leading to the heated conversation on video.
"It just doesn't make sense why you'd hand me a bill that you were just gonna have me drive back here to give you back anyway," Tansey says in the video. "I'm not mad, I just had to waste my resources coming back here."
But the office-workers are adamant about their position in the video.
"So listen: The manager apologized once for you. Do you want him to apologize again for you?" [editors note: Actually, yes I do because you seem to have not got the message. As a matter of fact, the pizza delivery man should have said he wanted an apology from him]. the worker in blue says.
"Out the door before I put my foot in your ass," a female office-worker in green says. [Editors note: wow, what a brave soul, you make your tough comment as the individual is leaving. Brave act used car sales bimbo].
"Get the f—ing owner and the manager on the phone, I want that mother-f—er done," another man in the office says after Tansey leaves. "I want him fired."
The video was originally posted on YouTube, but it has since been made private. [editors note: Nice try, this is the world-wide-web dudes, you are not the only individuals who have downloaded the video. Your rotton behavior does not go away that quickly.] However, a Google index of the video shows the title as originally being "irate pizza driver." The angle of the video suggests it comes from a stationary security camera inside the dealership's office.
Willoughby, who was working that night, said he got a call from F&R Auto Sales saying that Tansey had "verbally berated" them. He said they took the call seriously at first and asked Tansey about the interaction. After Tansey explained what had happened, managers decided not to discipline the driver.
"This isn't the first time we have had problems with F&R Auto," Willoughby said.
"All the time, there's always a problem, always an issue," Hernandez said. "We've been going back and forth with them for a long time."
Posted January 16, 2015 by Scared Monkeys
Business, Good & Evil, Layoff - Fired, WTF, You Tube - VIDEO | 2 comments
NFL 2014 Regular Season Over … Now Comes Black Monday for Coaches like Rex Ryan, Mike Smith, Jim Harbaugh, Marc Tressman and More (Update: Ryan & Smith Fired)
With only one game left tonight in the 2014 NFL regular season, Cincinnati at Pittsburgh for the AFC North Division, let the coaching carousel begin as tomorrow, "Black Monday" for many coaches. Back up the moving truck and get out the boxes, the following coaches are most likely out and will be packing up their offices:
1. Rex Ryan, New York Jets. The only individual with a worse past 6 years has been Barack Obama. Its too bad we can't fire BO on Monday as well. Make no mistake about it, Ryan will be given the pink slip Monday, the Jets might also want to clean house and axe the GM John Idzik as well as this team just has no talent and has drafted poorly. The Jets under Rex have continually regressed. They used to be pound and ground relying on a strong defense and good running game. These days they are neither. However, in a parting flipping of the bird to Jets brass, as Ryan's Jets defeated Miami 37-24, winning 2 of the last 3 games finishing 2014 at 4-12 and dropping further in the 2015 college draft.
Rex Ryan can always reminisce of his days as the Jet's coach with the Mark Sanchez 'Butt fumble"
2. Mike Smith, Atlanta Falcons. If there is ever some one that needs to be fired is Mike Smith. Frankly, with some of the coaching decisions this guy has made last year, I can't believe was brought back as a coach in 2014. However, Falcon fans will not have to suffer the same in 2015 with today's embarrassing loss at home to Carolina, 34-3. In a disastrous year, because of the weakness and pathetic play of all teams in the NFC South, the 6-9 Falcons actually had a chance to win the division and host a playoff game next week. As wrong as that sounds, but that is another discussion for another day. However, the Falcons lost badly at home. Actually, they never showed as the Panther running game ripped through Atlanta like General Sherman. It is a safe bet that Smith will be fired, you can bet the house on it. Smith will finish his tenure in Atlanta with a 65-45 record; however, only 10-22 in the last two seasons.
3. Jim Harbough, San Francisco 49ers. Let's just say it as simple as possible, It's off to Ann Arbor and the University of Michigan Wolverines … Hail! to the victors valiant. Hail! to the conqu'ring heroes .Hail! Hail! to Michigan The leaders and best!
Jim Harbaugh and the San Francisco 49ers will mutually part ways and it will most likely be 5 minutes after the end of the 49er/Arizona game. It is hard to believe it has come to this in San Francisco. In 4 years with the 49′ers Harbaugh was 44-19-1, three playoff appearances, three NFC Championship appearance and one Superbowl appearance. All this and the coach and ownership could not get along. CRAZY. I guess the 49er brass has some collective amnesia as just how bad they were prior to Harbaugh. Update: looks like we were right, ESPN is reporting Jim Harbaugh, Niners mutually part. Its not quite Jimmy and Jerry of Cowboys fame, but close.
Remember what it used to be like prior to Harbaugh?
4. Marc Tressman, Chicago Bears. It is safe to say that the Marc Tressman – Jay Cutler (QB) reign has been nothing short of a disaster. Tressman is 13-19 in two years as Bears head coach. The Bears finished 5-11 in 2014, dead last in the NFC Norris, losing their last 5 games in a row. A note to the Bears owners, the NFL is not the CFL. Maybe if the NFL extended the end zone by 10 yards, made the field 110 yards long and added the rouge, Tressman might have had a chance. Karma is a bitch. This is what the Bears deserve after they ran Lovie Smith out of town with a 10-6 record, a 81-63 record and a Superbowl appearance. The Bears would love to know what a 10 win season looks like these days. Hey Marc, I hear there are some coaching opportunities in the CFL, eh.
5. Tony Sparano, Oakland Raiders. Come on, its the Raiders, these folks go through coaches like people change their underwear. Since John Gruden left the Raider at the end of the 2001 season, Raiders have had 8 different head coaches in 13 years. JUST
WIN FIRE THE COACH BABY! The Raiders' interim coach took over a winless team in 2014, from fired coach Dennis Allen (8-28), and has since gone 3-7. By the way, who the hell is Dennis Allen? The Raiders finished last in the AFC West at 3-13. With a promising young QB in last years draft and other top 5 draft pick in 2015, look for Oakland to have another new coach in 2015.
Former Oakland Raider Bill Romanowski give his opinion on the Raiders after being blown out
by the Miami Dolphins in Week 4 of the 2014 season, proclaiming,"The Raiders suck and I'm pissed off!"
UPDATE I: Its official, Jets Fire Rex Ryan and GM John Idzik.
Coach Rex Ryan and general manager John Idzik were fired early Monday morning, the first casualties of the New York Jets' fourth straight year out of the playoffs.
Owner Woody Johnson made the decisive, if not surprising, moves after his team stumbled to 4-12, its worst record since 2007. Johnson recently called it the most difficult of his 15 seasons as the head of the organization.
Johnson said in a statement that he made the changes after "extensive thought and reflection about the current state of our football team."
UPDATE II: Falcons fire Mike Smith.
Two for two. I would also ad that Giants may be firing their head coach, although I hope not.
Posted December 29, 2014 by Scared Monkeys
Layoff - Fired, NFL, Sports, You Tube - VIDEO | no comments
Barack Obama to Force Out 550 Majors from the Army
Hmm, Barack Obama certainly has no problem using the US military for a photo-op, but when Obama has no more use for them, he gives them the pink slip. However, Obama has no problem providing amnesty for millions of illegals and put them on the government dole. Grateful for their service, eh? How is it that we can force folks out of the military, but some how we cannot reduce the number of individuals at the EPA, IRS or other government agencies?
About 550 Army majors, including some serving in Afghanistan, will soon be told they have to leave the service by next spring as part of a budget-driven downsizing of the service.
Gen. John Campbell, the vice chief of the Army, acknowledged Friday that telling troops in a war zone that they're out of a job is a difficult task. But he said some of the soldiers could join the National Guard or the Army Reserve.
The decision to cut Army majors comes on the heels of a move to slash nearly 1,200 captains from the ranks. Army leaders were criticized at the time for giving 48 of them the bad news while they were deployed to Afghanistan.
The Army declined to say how many majors will be notified while they are at the battlefront.
The cuts have been difficult for many young officers, particularly captains, who tend not to have enough years in service to retire.
To make the cuts, the Army looked at about 8,500 majors who joined the service between 1999 and 2003. Some may have about 15 years of service, depending on all factors that go into credit for years of service, and might be able to retire, but many won't have enough time in the job, Campbell said.
Posted August 4, 2014 by Scared Monkeys
Barack Obama, Community Agitator, Divider in Chief, Epic Fail, heroes, Jobs, Layoff - Fired, Military, Misleader, Unemployment, US Army, WTF, You Tube - VIDEO | 3 comments
Radio Host Nancy Lane Fired From Her Job at Forever Broadcasting Because of Her Deranged Ex-husband … "Regrettably Recent Events Involving Your Former Husband has Caused Severe Disruption to our Business"
Imagine being fired from a job not because of your actions or poor performance, but instead because you have a lunatic, psycho, deranged ex-spouse.
Nancy Lane was best known as Daisy or Lexi and was a popular radio host on two of Forever Broadcasting's stations, WFGI-FM, Froggy 95, and WRKW-FM, Rocky 99, in Johnstown, PA. That was until last Tuesday when she was fired. But she was not fired for her poor job performance, she was fired because of the actions of her lunatic ex-husband. Her former husband, George Lane, has in recent months threatened Nancy, her family and her co-workers. Now. his actions have caused her to be fired. Nancy Lane said, "It's defeating to me that my job now has been let go because of violent acts of a person who is clearly of not right mind and not right demeanor. Now another facet of my life is affected by this."
Nancy Lane (Image source: Screen grab via WJAC-TV) - click on pic for VIDEO
Nancy Lane told WJAC-TV that the past several years have been difficult on her, but things have amplified in the past few months with her ex-husband allegedly making violent threats against her and her former employer, Forever Broadcasting.
"Not only has my personal life been greatly affected and influenced, terror, fear, all of that, but I've worked very hard as a person in the public eye to maintain a certain reputation and now that's been stripped from me as well," she said.
Lane, who had a show on two Forever Broadcasting stations in Johnstown, says the termination letter she received — and partially read aloud to WJAC-TV — doesn't mention poor performance as a factor in letting her go.
"Regrettably recent events involving your former husband has caused severe disruption to our business and has made this decision necessary," the letter said, according to Lane.
This is so wrong that some one would be fired from their job because of some one who is a deranged lunatic and no longer even a part of one's life. Nancy Lane is a victim of an abusive and crazy ex-husband, yet her employer is punishing her for it.
Posted February 10, 2014 by Scared Monkeys
Bizarre, Business, Crime, Harassment - Bullying, Jobs, Layoff - Fired, Media, Mental Health, Unemployment, WTF, You Tube - VIDEO | 3 comments


text:
Brand value: $54.9 billion1-year change: 9%Coca-Cola sold 13.5 billion cases of its signature brand in 2012, up 3% from the prior year thanks to growth outside the U.S. Those sales represent half of the company's total soda revenue. The brand became the first to record 50 million "likes" on Facebook last year.
Photo: Bloomberg/Bloomberg via Getty Images

subset: commoncrawl


text:
At Dillard's, we implemented a security program to ensure that a human is trying to enter our site and not a computer. If you have any questions, please contact firstname.lastname@example.com.
If you want to pay your bill, please visit Dillards.com/payonline.
Item #03947475
Click Image To Zoom
(based on 8 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
5 Stars
4 Stars
3 Stars
2 Stars
1 Stars
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Best Uses
Reviewed by 8 customers
Displaying reviews 1-8
Back to top
Love the Draperies!
By CAT
from Iowa
See all my reviews
Comments about Luxury Hotel Athena Bedding Collection:
Beautiful and functional.
Was this review helpful? Yes / No
- You may also flag this review
Comment on this review
Great Buy
By Aarya
from LIttle Rock, AR
About Me High-end Shopper
I love the fabric and color
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
amazing bedding
By sleeping on a cloud
from St Louis, MO
About Me Budget Shopper
I bought another Luxury Hotel duvet cover and matching shams, this was the perfect coordinating bedding to add my new bedroom. Colors and fabric are great. I bought everything on new years day at unbelievable prices, any other day, I would not have given them a 2nd look. My room now reminds me of upscale hotel. room, love, love, LOVE!Only con, window panels need weights to stetch out and have them hang straght
Love Love Love
By Nancy the judge
from Baton Rouge LA
Gave new life to an old duvet. The ties hold the duvet in place nicely. I had to add loops to the old to have something to tie to, but if you purchase a Dillards duvet you should be pleased with the cover.
Very nice bedding set
By BJ
from va
About Me Midrange Shopper
Love the pattern and the design of the bedding.
I love the sheet set
By It's me
from Austin, tx
We started using the sheet shortly after receiving them. They are soft comfortable and we just love it. Have not washed it yet, not sure how it will be after washing.
(3 of 4 customers found this review helpful)
I would buy this product again.
By Irish lass
from Madison, WI
Easy to wash. Fits in my machine easily. Only had to iron the pillow cases and bedskirt. Put the duvet outside on the line and let it blow in the wind.Very happy.
(3 of 3 customers found this review helpful)
Love it!
By KJ
from Tucson, AZ
We needed to replace a much loved but well worn Frette Duvet. I had search for months to find something modern and easy to clean that matched the room decor. We use the duvet in a European manner; without a top sheet. Cover softness and thread count is important. In the summer we use the duvet alone without the comforter. I love it! Wish the store carried the king shams. I had to buy them online and pay shipping.


text:
Tag Archives for climate change
Anti-Liberty Democrats FUC-ing California [Darleen Click]
TweetFor a brief few months at the end of last year, I thoroughly enjoyed paying around $2.50 per gallon of gas. Currently, local prices in the Inland Empire of So Cal are hovering around $3.80. In Los Angeles, it is … Continue reading
Top scientists to investigate data manipulation of Climate Change Settle Science™ [Darleen Click]
TweetCue the AGWarmists to launch personal attacks and intimidation — Last month, we are told, the world enjoyed "its hottest March since records began in 1880". This year, according to "US government scientists", already bids to outrank 2014 as "the … Continue reading
Can we now call this fascism? Al Gore: "Punish climate deniers" [Darleen Click]
TweetTHE SCIENCE IS SETTLED!! Former U.S. Vice President Al Gore proposes to "punish climate change deniers." Gore also suggests that politicians who reject "accepted science" should also pay the price. Gore, an active environmental activist, spoke about the climate crisis … Continue reading
Pre-traumatic stress disorder [Darleen Click]
TweetIs there nothing Global Cooling Warming Climate Change Disruption cannot do? From depression to substance abuse to suicide and post-traumatic stress disorder, growing bodies of research in the relatively new field of psychology of global warming suggest that climate change … Continue reading
"Whatever Happened to Global Warming?" [Darleen Click]
TweetFrom an admitted "lukewarmist" …. The U.N. no longer claims that there will be dangerous or rapid climate change in the next two decades. Last September, between the second and final draft of its fifth assessment report, the U.N.'s Intergovernmental … Continue reading
Global Cooling, Global Warming, Climate Change Climate Distruption — Is there anything it can't do? [Darleen Click]
TweetAll you First World, carbon big-foot, Gaia-raping people of pallor, the flood of Little Brown Children™ across the artificial southern border is your fault On a three-day trade mission to Mexico, California governor Jerry Brown talked most frequently about climate … Continue reading
The science is settled! [Darleen Click]
TweetSo, like, SHUT UP.
The Coming Ice Age [Darleen Click]
TweetDeja vu Heh. Last 6 months coldest since 1912
"Weather practically everywhere is being caused by climate change." [Darleen Click]
Tweet… so says Obama spokeshole, John Holdren, as The One is set to visit California to promote a $1 billion dollar slush climate change resilience fund. Obama will propose the fund Friday after visiting with farmers in Fresno, Calif. The … Continue reading
Los Angeles Times makes it official — "Mainstream" Media decides what the hoi polloi are allowed to know [Darleen Click]
TweetLASlimes has declared Anthropomorphic Global Warming as unassailable science. In a stunning move that some scientists are decrying as blatant censorship, The Los Angeles Times is no longer publishing letters from those who deny climate change. "Simply put, I do … Continue reading


text:
Shortcodes Ultimate is overriding shortcodes css in my theme and i don't want it to. Problem is, disabling styles.css (via the plugin settings) in the plugin doesn't allow me to use the shortcodes I want and retain my theme's css styling for others.
Basically, I want to disable Buttons, Accordion and Lists in Shortcodes Ultimate, so my theme can handle these without interference.
Compatibility mode didn't work either, by the way.
So I need to get into the code and disable what is conflicting on the plugin's side.


text:
Bjarke Ingels on His Via 57 Chair
By TIM McKEOUGH
The in-demand architect discusses the chair he has created to go with his Via 57 West building.
Friday, May 27, 2016
The number of home sales in the Bronx rose 35 percent in the first quarter of this year, a far larger increase than in Manhattan, Queens or Brooklyn.
The Tony-winning actor lives with his dog in a prewar co-op.
Jamie Koff wanted more space; an elevator was a must.
A residential tower some 300 feet high will rise on the site where a popular bowling alley once stood.
The in-demand architect discusses the chair he has created to go with his Via 57 West building.
An apartment in a condominium that once housed showrooms at the International Toy Center was the sale of the week.
A wide range of immigrants, along with students from nearby Fordham, make their home in this affordable Bronx neighborhood.
Lightweight faux furniture helps buyers visualize what an empty space would look like furnished.
A farmhouse in Waitsfield, Vt., a contemporary in Mesa, Colo., and a single-story house in Homewood, Ala.
Montenegro's housing market was affected by the global real estate crisis of 2008, though Russians continued to buy homes.
This weeks properties are in the Gramercy area, Midtown East, and South Slope, Brooklyn.
This week's homes include a four-bedroom in Redding, Conn., and a five-bedroom in Old Brookville, N.Y.
The president and his family plan to relocate to the upscale Kalorama neighborhood, two miles from the White House, people familiar with his plans said.
Many buyers in Britain are prepared to dig deep into their pockets for the privilege of living in a national park, and the South Downs National Park is a case in point.
An Argentine-American couple spent two years restoring an abandoned water mill at the northern end of the Val d'Orcia region of Tuscany.
As the city's vacant lots, old factories and former warehouses are being redeveloped, colonies of cats are forced to find new habitats.
A new generation of buyers at a Jackson Heights, Queens, co-op has won a nearly decade-long battle over access to the lawn.
An elaborate garden is one of the perks at some new developments in New York City.
The pendulum is starting to swing back toward enclosed kitchens. Several new buildings offer separated kitchens, a nod to prewar apartment design.
Tours of the Pocantico Hills, N.Y., estate offer a deep dive into the elegance in which one of America's most powerful families lived.
Newly unsealed documents cast doubt on the Treasury's justification for sweeping the mortgage giants' profits, exposing the perils of letting the government act in secret.
Graham Parker, the general manager of the public radio station WQXR, and his psychologist husband, Adam Benson, were drawn to their apartment's light, scale and flow.
Two more apartments at the Greenwich Lane have officially closed, and were the most expensive transactions of the week.
A 12-story co-op under construction by Toll Brothers City Living rises from a former church parking lot in the West Village.
Dealing with grinding metal sounds, loud rehearsals, and an out-of-order elevator.
Two more apartments at the Greenwich Lane have officially closed, and were the most expensive transactions of the week.
Home to around 80,000 residents across 13.2 square miles, the city has nine miles of coastline and a wide variety of housing stock.
Keith Peterson was looking for a one-bedroom in Chelsea, but was charmed by the East Village.
A converted barn in Woodstock, N.Y., a contemporary in Portland, Ore., and a 1915 house in Walterboro, S.C.
The housing market in Finland has been weak for the last several years, though this year has shown a slight improvement over 2015.
Pirch, a kitchen-and-bath retailer, presents itself as a one-stop shopping destination for people with multimillion-dollar apartments and renovation budgets to match.
The Château de la Croix des Gardes, a luxurious hilltop estate that was featured in "To Catch a Thief," is publicly on the market for the first time in 56 years.
A house in Bristol that had been a training school for nannies before being divided into apartments has been restored to a single-family residence.
In Manhattan alone, roughly two out of every five buildings are taller, bulkier, bigger or more crowded than current zoning allows. And often that can actually be a good thing.
With a groundbreaking comes a promise of revenue and housing for an area in need of an economic boost since the closing of a General Motors site in 1996.
A pair of architecturally minded enterprises offer intriguing yet wildly divergent holiday rentals. Choose your fantasy.
A newly created 3,000-foot dune has people in the Long Island hamlet wondering if an effort to save the shore has instead destroyed it.
The central bank sent an unusually frank message to Wall Street, delivered in the official account of the Fed's April meeting.
A recently overhauled free app that now allows users to read new stories every day and search for homes at the same time.
This week's properties are in the Financial District, the West Village and Prospect Heights, Brooklyn.
This week's properties include a log cabin in Springfield, N.J., and ahome on a cul-de-sac in Roslyn, N.Y.
Answers to reader questions about real estate, home buying and renting, mortgages, insurance, leases, condominiums and co-ops and real estate law.
Information on sales in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut.
Catch up on the most popular stories of the month.
Catch up on the most popular stories of the month.
The inside scoop on New York City neighborhoods and beyond.
The choice between buying a home and renting one is among the biggest financial decisions that many adults make.
Parse the market by price and size.
Record prices, skinny skyscrapers, celebrity listings and architectural debuts: It's been an eventful year in New York City real estate. Test your memory with this quiz.
Derailed by a blaze in 2014, a plan to renovate the site of Younkers department store, a downtown anchor for a century, regains momentum.
Recent commercial real estate transactions in New York City.
The return of the team to the area and plans for an 80,000-seat stadium and an entertainment complex are expected to breathe new life into the city.
Recent commercial real estate transactions in New York City.
Members of the new guard of landlords are just as likely to come in for an after-work beer as they are to stop by at midnight to fix a clogged sink.
The Wendel family, bygone real estate tycoons, avoided publicity and luxury. Their refusal to sell property drove the city crazy.
It's a short hop from New York, and at the moment, it's still less expensive.
The practice of home staging has long elicited strong reactions. But as staging has evolved, more real estate professionals stress its importance.
Houses of steel and aluminum are sprouting in cool places, a.k.a. Brooklyn neighborhoods.
Among over 3,000 unionized superintendents in New York City, perhaps a few dozen are women.
The Bronx, particularly the South Bronx, has assumed the mantle of next frontier for renters, buyers and developers.
The palatial Upper East Side triplex that Joan Rivers called home for more than a quarter of a century was the sale of the week.
A Greenwich Village townhouse sold by the actress and her husband, Matthew Broderick, was the most expensive sale of the week in New York City.
It's far more than banking and rent checks. Here are some tips.
The pros share their strategies for making your home enticing to buyers.
A new breed of online furniture manufacturers offers high-end quality and customization – and often a quick turnaround time – at low-end prices.
With the median price for a Manhattan apartment nearing the $1 million mark, buying your first home can be a daunting task. And don't forget to add in the fees.
Good cellphone reception is a must-have for many in New York.
Here are some simple home improvements that may offer the most bang for the buck.
A home remodeling checklist for New York apartment dwellers.
To get to Brooklyn, win the lottery first.
Suggestions for frustrated New York City home hunters.
For the latest residential real estate news covering the five boroughs and beyond.


text:
Note: Supplemental materials are not guaranteed with Rental or Used book purchases.
Organic Chemistry A Guided Inquiry for Recitation, Volume 1
ISBN13:by Straumanis, Andrei
Brooks Cole
Complimentary 7-Day eTextbook Access
When you rent or buy this book, you will receive complimentary 7-day online access to the eTextbook version from your PC, Mac, tablet, or smartphone. Feature not included on Marketplace Items.
Questions About This Book?
Why should I rent this book?
Renting is easy, fast, and cheap! Renting from eCampus.com can save you hundreds of dollars compared to the cost of new or used books each semester. At the end of the semester, simply ship the book back to us with a free UPS shipping label! No need to worry about selling it back.
How do rental returns work?
Returning books is as easy as possible. As your rental due date approaches, we will email you several courtesy reminders. When you are ready to return, you can print a free UPS shipping label from our website at any time. Then, just return the book to your UPS driver or any staffed UPS location. You can even use the same box we shipped it in!
What version or edition is this?
This is the 1st edition with a publication date of 1/18/2011.
What is included with this book?
- The New copy of this book will include any supplemental materials advertised. Please check the title of the book to determine if it should include any CDs, lab manuals, study guides, etc.
- The Rental copy of this book is not guaranteed to include any supplemental materials. You may receive a brand new copy, but typically, only the book itself.
- The eBook copy of this book is not guaranteed to include any supplemental materials. Typically only the book itself is included.
Related Products
Learning organic chemistry is easier and less intimidating with ORGANIC CHEMISTRY: A GUIDED INQUIRY FOR RECITATION, Volume I. Using a proven method called POGIL, the book includes specially designed worksheets that boost confidence and help you build your understanding of organic chemistry. Rather than encouraging you to memorize facts often forgotten after the exam, this workbook helps you build a deep understanding of key concepts so you learn more, retain information longer, and are better prepared for future courses and standardized exams.


text:
: [Pokémon]
Cracked, or How the Love of Seafood Saved Unova
View Single Post
October 5th, 2013 (4:13 PM). Edited October 5th, 2013 by teamVASIMR.
Join Date: May 2011
Posts: 40
Once in a while I come back to check on a small list of fics.
Only 3 months hiatus is quite good.
Congratulations on university!
Edit: onto the fic itself
- Noooo Niamh's been assimilated!
- Maybe somebody else on some other site noticed something wrong somewhere, but I didn't. Listen to that somebody and not to me.
So I went and googled the phrase, "No hallucination could be this annoying." (thought it was a quote)
The only result was a short story involving a girl named Hayley.
Written by some Malaysian blogger in 2009.
What gives.
Insert Signature Here
View Public Profile
Send a private message to teamVASIMR
Find all posts by teamVASIMR
Find threads started by teamVASIMR


text:
The wetland pools on Fountain Grove Conservation Area will be dewatered so research can be conducted and data gathered during March. The information gathered will be beneficial to future wetland management of the area. Wildlife viewing and light goose hunting might be affected during this time period.
At Meadville, take Route W south 5 miles, then Blackhorn Drive south 0.75 mile to the area headquarters.
This area contains large wetlands and forest tracts in addition to cropland, grassland, and old fields. Facilities/features: boat ramps, picnic areas, and waterfowl blinds. In addition, there are three major bodies of water: Che-Ru Lake, Bittern Marsh, and Jo Shelby Lake. There are also three permanent streams: Grand River, Parsons Creek, and Locust Creek.
For more information call:
Owned by MDC
Additional Information:
Portions of the area are open to statewide regulation. Other portions of the area are available for small game hunting beginning January 1.
Go to Top of Page
Open to statewide regulations, except deer may be hunted by archery methods only.
This area has no shooting ranges.
Follow MDC on
Copyright ©2015 Conservation Commission of Missouri. All Rights Reserved.


text:
|Heidi Engelhardt
Courtesy: cyclones.com
Release: 09/04/2013
Awards and Honors
Indoor: Did not compete.
XC: Did not compete.
Indoor: Scored for Iowa State in the mile, finishing sixth in 4:50.02, at the Big 12 Championships … did not score in the 3,000-meter run, but did record a personal best 9:40.86 at the conference championships … in the Big 12 Championships prelims, set her personal best in the mile at 4:49.39 to ensure her qualification to the finals … competed in the mile at the Iowa State Classic … finished 12th in the Invitational 3,000-meter run at the Razorback Invitational … finished third in the mile with a then-personal best at the Big 4 Duals … took part in the 1,000-meter run at the Holiday Inn Invitational.
XC: Opened the year with an individual title at the Bulldog 4K Classic, breaking the tape with time of 14 minutes, 43 seconds ... clocked a 6K time of 23:30 at the Griak Invitational ... competed in the B race at the Wisconsin adidas Invitational, posting a time of 22:17 ... placed 30th overall at the Big 12 Championship, crossing the line with a 6K rime of 21:31 ... posted her best time of the season at the NCAA Midwest Regional, running as ISU's fifth scorer and clocking a time of 20:58 to place 30th ... competed at the NCAA Championships as a part of the runner-up ISU women's team, finishing with a time of 21:59.9.
Before Iowa State


text:
Flashing Red: New Works by Tara Costello and Shawn McNulty
Shawn McNulty paints — with palette knives — large color fields in which layered abstractions emerge from beneath thick washes of color scraped away to reveal those mysteries below. There's more texture too, in the form of pumice worked into the paint. Tara Costello layers Venetian plaster and raw pigment in shades of black and gray into large rich works of line, shadow, and texture. Both artists include blasts of fire-engine, burnt-orange, or Tuscan-hued red in some of their paintings, hence the "Flashing Red" title of their joint show opening at Rosalux Gallery this weekend. The works of both artists vibrate with immersive enticements. It's not difficult to get lost in color, shape, action, brushstroke, or palette swipe. "The more abstract is form, the more clear and direct its appeal," Wassily Kandinsky once said. In these works, the appeal is at once intellectual, emotional, and spiritual. There will be an opening reception from 7 to 11 p.m. Saturday, April 7. (Pictured: Shawn McNulty, Scrubble)
April 5-29, 2012
Get the Things to Do Newsletter
Sign up for our weekly guide to events in Minneapolis & St. Paul, and never be bored again. With suggestions for every day of the week, our recommendations will keep you busy on any budget.
Related Location
1400 Van Buren St. NE
Minneapolis, MN 55413
Popular Stories
Sponsor Content


text:
Skip to comments.The Fall of Fallujah
Posted on 01/09/2014 12:22:25 PM PST by Kaslin
Iraq: Late reporting indicates that al-Qaida-affiliated Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) fighters have begun withdrawing from Fallujah to the suburbs. This report has not been confirmed.
The government announced that it would not attack Fallujah for now in order to minimize civilian casualties. At least one source in Iraq, however, reported that government forces have low morale because they lack the supplies and equipment to mount an operation that has any prospect of success.
Meanwhile in Ramadi, also west of Baghdad, a government and tribal night operation on 6 January failed to oust Islamists from southern Ramadi, according to an army spokesman. The government force was repulsed.
Comment: The fighting in Anbar Province does not threaten the government in Baghdad. Rather it threatens to fragment Iraq, provided the Sunni tribes join the uprising in more strength than they have to date.
If confirmed, the withdrawal of the Islamists indicates they realize they cannot hold territory against more modern and better equipped forces. It also suggests they lack good intelligence on Iraqi government forces.
The ISIS-led seizure of Fallujah does not appear sustainable, but there will be more and worse troubles in Anbar. That is because the Shiite-dominated al Maliki government has disenfranchised the Sunni Arab population. Inclusiveness is not part of the Iraqi understanding of winning elections and majority rule. Thus, there will be more violence and killing.
The Sunni Arabs in Anbar are in revolt, but the second round of Iraq's civil war is just beginning.
Syria: For the record. The first batch of chemical weapons precursors was loaded aboard a ship on Tuesday. The ship sailed from the port of Latakia, Syria, with Russian and Chinese naval escorts. Neither the Syrian government nor the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons identified the chemical storage sites from which the precursors were withdrawn.
The chemical precursors will be taken to Italy, where they will be loaded onto a US Navy ship and moved to international waters for destruction in a specially created titanium tank on board.
This is the start of a process that should have been completed by 31 December. The Sunni uprising prevented Syria from meeting the 31 December target, not the Syrian government.
The start of the destruction of Syrian chemical weapons makes this a good day for Israel.
Security situation. In the past week, news services have reported fighting between opposition factions. Most of the fratricide is occurring in towns in northern Syria south of the Turkish border in a hundred mile swath from the eastern edge of the Alawite region around Latakia, on the coast, to the border of the Kurdish area in the northeast.
Most western reports stress that the main antagonist is the al-Qaida affiliated Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), also known as the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria or al Sham (ISIS), which includes Syria and Lebanon.
What is missing in most of the press accounts is that the protagonist is not the secular fighting groups supported by the West, but the al-Nusrah Front, which comprises intolerantly devout Islamist fighters. The fighting does not appear to favor one or other group. Both have resorted to executing captured fighters from the other side by the dozens. Neither appears to be making measurable gains, except in body counts.
A difference is that the al-Nusrah Front is Syrian and wants to govern a fundamentalist emirate based in Damascus. ISIL is pan-Arab and wants to merge Syria with Iraq into a single emirate. The Syrian Kurds in the northeast appear to be defending their areas and Government forces are holding their own in the west.
Administrative note: Thanks to all the brilliant Readers who submitted thoughts about the elections in Bangladesh.
Well...it must be the will of Allah for this to happen...so, let's talk about more important stuff...like the Fall of the US under Obama!
I am speechless . . . .
"The government announced that it would not attack Fallujah for now in order to minimize civilian casualties. At least one source in Iraq, however, reported that government forces have low morale because they lack the supplies and equipment to mount an operation that has any prospect of success."
Now just WHOM would be benefited by the release of such a statement?
We have traitors in the congress, executive and judicial branch that are part of the democrat socialist peoples party that have and are destroying our country.
My son is never going to give his life for the useless distractions the power brokers have given us. Prepare for China to start a rumble and then watch as we get pulled into that morass in order to get rid of men that are useless eaters by the Chinese and the cowards here in power.
voting is useless now that the fix is in for illegals, unions and parasites to take over the polls. It doesn't even matter how you vote unless you COUNT the votes.
Why should we be upset if tribal leaders take over Fallujah, get rid of AlQaeda, and keep it from erupting into civil war? We shouldn't have gone into Iraq to begin with.
The situation in Iraq is sorta weird, on all levels. I mean, Al Queda isn't a "Nation" so.........they take these towns, what are they going to do? Try to set up a new country or something? If they did, would they try to join the UN? Do they control an airport or a radio station or a Post Office or a telephone exchange? I think that for a group to establish their own country they'd have to have those things at a mere minimum. You can't be your own country without your own Country Code for telephone calls and your own Zip code for postal purposes and you have to have an airport. My guess is that, as well, they'd need get their own IP address for Internet. Sounds to me like they haven't thought this all through.
Not one American life is worth that sand pit.
I hear you and agree
I am heartbroken for those who suffered and sacrificed in Iraq. Yes, the 'leaders' we now have are more comfortable with us losing Militarily. It proves, to the Obamabots, that our Military is a waste of money.
Well we did go in and it worked out well. That arrogant pos occupant of 1600 Pennsylvania turned the success around into a failure
"al Qaeda" already overplayed its hand in Fallujah a decade ago, and created blood feuds that haven't been settled.
I suggest they left because anyone who isn't from around those parts still has to face tribal chiefs with old scores to settle for butchered raped and robbed families and tribsemen.
One thing our military did was to get the offended tribes to cooperate with us and drive out the psychos out- now they know it can be done. Please keep glory hog John McCain home and let them take care of their own bidness.
To use Michelle's quote; "All This (U.S. war dead fighting for a people's right to freely live and vote) for a Flag? (The Black Flag of Islam which now flutters in retaken-Fallujah)
So Obama just pissed away and wasted all those who died in the initial liberation of that $h!t hole
Coming; the Sunnification of Iraq.
Yes, this was a foolish endeavor from the start. Bush and others who pushed for this war are more to blame than anyone. What did they think would happen? Anyone familiar with history would have known this would turn into a disaster.
Nothing of benefit to our country has been accomplished. In fact, the place is worse than it was under Saddam. Christians have been chased out or killed, and Maliki is just as much a tyrant as Saddam was, plus he's a tyrant who embraces Iran.
If only I could say a few choice words to the cheerleaders for this war like Wolfowitz, Perle, Feith, Frum, Condi Rice, and Cheney. Our people were sent to suffer and die for the whims of a bunch of policy wonks who thought they could remake the world.
Saudi Arabians, with some measure of Saudi government assistance, attack the hell out of us on 9-11...so of course we had to invade Iraq.
Thousands of U.S. soldiers dead for zip, nada - but hey at least stuttering dog-painter George Jr. gets to pick up post-war awards from Saudi "royals".
Much of the middle east is on fire...the fire of Islam's leader,Satan...who its followers stupidly believe is actually God.
My sentiments exactly. I am so heartbroken for the troops and their families who have sacrficed so much for idiot politicians who treat them like pawns. I cannot imagine losing a son or daughter to this travesty.
The plan is to set up a trans-Sunni state in Western Iraq that boarder Eastern Territories they control in Syria. BTW, the Kurds are virtually their own country and Kurds provisionally control territories in Syria.
The only thing holding back Al Queda is they are back to their old ways, torturing and imposing strict Sharia Law. Remember that even OBL told Al Queda in Iraq to tone it done because they were turning off the masses. This puts tribal leader in the leadership position and last line of defense. They don't like Maliki and they don't like Al Queda. If the two can come to terms, the trans-Sunni state in Syria and Iraq will happen.
Fallujah. What keeps coming to my mind is the Lion of Fallujah, Douglas Zembiec. Im also mindful of two local Marines killed in nearby Ramadi. Im of another generation if not two but I was privileged to serve with Marines of equal stature and sacrifice. Though their service is remembered around homes and squad bays, low-life trash politicians make me question the price.
A short-sighted opinion that neglects to point out how the critical investments in Iraq were squandered and abandoned.
I am retired military, and retired long before 911 so I had no active part in any of this. The closest I got was stateside support for Desert Shield. I cannot begin to fathom the sacrifice that so many men (and their families) made for the sake of the war in Iraq. Not too long after the battle of Fallujah I happened to meet two young fellows who took part in it. I cannot describe their mood while haltingly talking about it.
I have nothing but admiration for those who gave their last full measure of devotion, and those who risked their lives and the well being of their families. And for the families who sent their familly members to fight in that struggle.
I have nothing but total, utter, infinite, contempt for those who undermined the sacrifices. I cannot go any further than that without compromising Christian ethics and the code of this web site.
Of course they were squandered. The goal, to remove Saddam, and to replace him with something better was always a pipe dream. As for the WMD, which were the original justification for the war and were used to scare the American people into accepting the invasion, they weren't found. Now whether you believe they were whisked away to some other country doesn't matter. The objective of finding WMD, if there, was not accomplished.
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.


text:
Friday, May 24, 2013
0 Comments | Copyright: IANS
A spot boy in Bollywood movies was Friday arrested from Hyderabad for the Indian Premier League (IPL) spot fixing scandal, Delhi Police sources said.
Mohammad Ahya alias Yusuf, 45, was arrested at the Hyderabad airport while trying to flee to Dubai, the sources said.
"One of the arrested bookies, Chandresh Patel, revealed Ahya's name. We will be bringing him to Delhi," a Delhi Police official said. This takes the number of arrests in the IPL spot fixing case to 19.
Ahya, based in Mumbai, was arrested by Delhi Police at the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport on Hyderabad's outskirts when he was about to board a flight to Dubai, police sources said.
"Ahya was working as a conduit between bookies and fixers for this season's IPL matches," a Delhi Police official said.
While questioning Patel, the name Yusuf surfaced. Further questioning revealed that Yusuf was actually Mohammad Ahya. A team of Delhi Police Special Cell laid a trap and nabbed him from the Hyderabad airport's security hold area, the officer said.
Ahya, a resident of Mumbai and native of Hyderabad, started his career as a spot boy on film sets in 1984. He also worked as a spot boy in the films of veteran actor Dilip Kumar. He was a spot boy in a movie set which was released in 2010, the officer said.
Prior to his arrest, Ahya was working as a spot boy while spot fixing IPL matches, police said.
"He got in touch with Patel this year before the IPL started. He contacted several players of IPL for spot fixing on Patel's instructions," he added.
Police said Ahya travelled to Dubai frequently.
The involvement of Bollywood stars and an underworld don based in Dubai in the spot fixing has not been ruled out.
"Our team is working on all angles and investigations are on," the officer added.
Delhi Police arrested Rajasthan Royals cricketers S. Sreesanth, Chandila, Ankeet Chavan and 11 bookies in a post-midnight operation in Delhi, Mumbai and Ahmedabad May 16, exposing the spot fixing scam.
Actor Vindu Dara Singh was also arrested on allegations of spot fixing in IPL matches.
Mumbai bomb blast inspired me to make 'D-Day': Nikhil Adwani
User Comments & RatingsJoin India Forums for free to comment on this story. Have an account already? Use Quick Login to comment.
Rishi Kapoor took to his social media to express his anger and asked ...
Veteran actor Anupam Kher on Wednesday supported Rishi Kapoor's views ...
Disclaimer: All Logos and Pictures of various Channels, Shows, Artistes, Media Houses, Companies, Brands etc. belong to their respective owners, and are used to merely visually identify the Channels, Shows, Companies, Brands, etc. to the viewer. Incase of any issue please contact the webmaster.
Popular Channels :Star Plus | Zee TV | Sony TV | Colors TV | SAB TV | Life OK
Quick Links :Top 100 TV Celebrities | Top 100 Bollywood Celebs | About Us | Contact Us | Advertise | Forum Index


text:
The AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine in the E 63 AMG delivers signature AMG high performance on all fronts. From top speed through torque generation, power delivery, engine sound and suitability for long trips to hallmark Mercedes reliability, the eight-cylinder engine with an output of up to 430 kW (585 hp) meets high expectations and leads the way in its segment. Today's challenges also include peak performance in terms of efficiency. The E 63 AMG continues to set new standards here – the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine remains the most efficient series production V8 engine around. A look at the fuel consumption picture confirms its outstanding credentials: running on 9.8 litres per 100 kilometres in NEDC combined mode (E 63 AMG Saloon with rear-wheel drive), the E 63 AMG demonstrates in impressive fashion how fascinating dynamics and low fuel consumption can be combined to perfection.
As previously, the E 63 AMG is available in a choice of two power ratings: as the basic model with an output of 410 kW (557 hp) and 720 Newton metres of torque and as the S-Model rated at 430 kW (585 hp) and generating up to 800 Newton metres of torque. This represents an increase of up to 24 kW (32 hp) and 20 Newton metres in comparison to the respective predecessor models. The technical basis for this uprating results from adaptation of the engine application, an increase in peak pressure and a rise in the charge pressure from 0.9 to 1.0 bar. The engine experts at AMG have achieved compliance with the requirements of the particularly stringent EU6 emissions standard, which will not become mandatory until 2015, by optimising the injection timing with the aid of multiple fuel injection and by modifying the European on-board diagnostics.
From power delivery to engine sound, the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine (internal designation M 157) makes every mile a sheer delight. The E 63 AMG picks up speed with effortless poise. A key factor here is the unique torque curve of the supercharged eight-cylinder engine from the AMG hand-finishing section in Affalterbach: 720 Newton metres of torque are available in the broad rev range from 1750 to 5250 rpm, the E 63 AMG S even disposing of as much as 800 Newton metres between 1750 and 5000 rpm. This results in vast pulling power in every speed range.
The technical highlights of the AMG eight-cylinder engine include:
- Direct petrol injection
- Biturbocharging
- All-aluminium crankcase
- Four-valve technology with camshaft adjustment
- Air-water charge air cooling
- Generator management
- ECO start/stop function
Two exhaust gas turbochargers located next to the cylinder banks supply the eight cylinders with fresh air. At their maximum speed of 185,000 rpm under full load, the two turbochargers force 1750 kg of air per hour into the combustion chambers. Thanks to their special, compact design – the turbine housings are welded to the exhaust manifold – there are significant space advantages, and the catalytic converters also heat up more rapidly.
The AMG V8 dispenses with the customary blow-off valve. This has enabled an extremely compact design for the compressor housing. To ensure agile responsiveness with no time lag, all the air ducts in the intake tract are as short as possible. The AMG experts have enabled the wastegate valve, which reduces the pressure in the exhaust system during negative load changes, to be vacuum-controlled via an electropneumatic converter. This allows dethrottling under partial loads, which in turn lowers the fuel consumption.
As was already the case in the AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine, the eight-cylinder direct-injection unit uses particularly efficient air/water intercooling. The low-temperature cooler with its water circulation is space-savingly accommodated within the V of the cylinder banks. It effectively cools down the intake air compressed by the turbochargers before it enters the combustion chambers, and maintains a constantly lower intake temperature under full load. The large radiator at the car's front end ensures defined cooling of the water circulating in the low-temperature circuit. Extremely short charge-air ducting makes for optimum responsiveness. The stainless-steel pressure pipes for the fresh and charge air are produced by the hydroforming process, have a wall thickness of only 0.8 millimetres and are designed for very low pressure loss.
All-aluminium crankcase with Silitec cylinder liners
The crankcase for the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine is made of diecast aluminium. The low (dry) engine weight of 204 kilograms is the result of uncompromising lightweight construction methods and gives the vehicle balanced weight distribution. The bearing cover for the main crankshaft bearings, made of grey cast iron, is bolted to the crankcase for high rigidity. Cast-in Silitec cylinder liners ensure that the eight pistons operate with low friction.
Drilled ventilation holes in the crankcase lead to a higher output and fuel savings under partial load: above the bearing blocks there are longitudinally drilled holes which connect the adjacent crankcase cavities. Normally the upward and downward movement of the pistons causes air to be forced into and extracted from the sump, which leads to increased resistance and therefore a reduction in output. The ventilation holes prevent this by ensuring effective pressure compensation between the cavities.
The forged crankshaft made of high-grade 38MnS6BY steel alloy (a combination of the chemical elements manganese, sulphur, boron and yttrium) rotates in five main bearings, has eight counterweights and has been optimised with respect to torsional rigidity, inertia, low rotating masses and a long operating life. A two-mass viscous damper mounted at the front reliably eliminates vibrations. Each connecting rod journal on the crankshaft carries two forged, cracked connecting rods. In the interests of low mechanical friction and high wear resistance, the lightweight pistons have a metallic contact surface. Pressure-controlled oil-spray nozzles in the crankcase ensure that the highly stressed piston crowns are efficiently cooled.
Four-valve technology with variable camshaft adjustment
Perfect charging of the combustion chambers is ensured by large intake and exhaust valves, of which there are two per cylinder. The exhaust valves, which are subject to high thermal loads, are sodium-cooled and hollow in order to reduce weight. Four overhead camshafts operate the 32 valves via low-maintenance, low-friction cam followers. The infinitely variable camshaft adjustment within a range of 40 degrees on the intake and exhaust sides depends on the engine load and engine speed, leading to outstanding output and torque values. This also results in consistent idling at a low speed.
Depending on the engine speed, valve overlap can be varied for the best possible fuel/air supply to the combustion chambers and efficient removal of the exhaust gases. The variable camshaft adjustment is carried out electromagnetically via four pivoting actuators, and is controlled by the engine control unit. The camshafts are driven by three high-performance silent chains, which have considerable advantages with regard to noise comfort compared to cylinder roller chains.
Innovative oil supply and water cooling
Efficient oil delivery under all load and operating conditions is ensured by an oil pump with an electrically controlled compression stage. The oil pressure can be varied between 2 and 4 bar, which has advantages in terms of friction and fuel consumption. An extraction stage integrated into the oil pump for the two turbochargers prevents oil from being entrained into the charge air and exhaust gases, thereby helping to reduce emissions even further. Both the sump and the extraction point have been optimised for maximum lateral acceleration and efficient lubrication. The oil capacity is 10.5 litres.
The combined water/oil cooling system represents an intelligent solution: after a cold start, initially the engine oil is only cooled via the oil/water heat exchanger. If the cooling performance of the very compact cooler is insufficient, the flow is additionally directed through the external engine oil/air cooler by an oil thermostat. The advantage of this system is that the engine oil heats up more rapidly, as the engine coolant warms up more quickly and the oil is later cooled by the coolant. A selectable water thermostat ensures rapid warming of the coolant when starting the engine and driving off. Large intakes in the new front apron of the E 63 AMG ensure an effective flow of air to the water, engine oil, charge-air and transmission oil coolers.
The engine coolant is cooled using the particularly efficient crossflow principle. There is a transverse flow of coolant through both the crankcase and the cylinder heads. Additional cooling slots in the cylinder head allow more efficient cooling of the combustion chambers, which entails advantages during combustion, enabling earlier ignition timings to be chosen without incurring the risk of knocking.
Generator management and optimised belt drive
The ECO start/stop function, which in "Controlled Efficiency" mode shuts down the eight-cylinder engine every time the vehicle is stationary, is not the only feature contributing to low fuel consumption. Generator management also helps to enhance efficiency: whenever the engine is on the overrun or when braking, kinetic energy is used to charge the battery rather than being wasted as heat in the usual way. In all other operating modes a combination of onboard network and generator management enables the generator to be kept at a low voltage. This reduces the load on the engine and makes for fuel savings of around 0.15 litres per 100 kilometres according to the NEDC standard, and up to 0.2 litres per 100 km in city driving with its frequent overrun and braking phases.
Highly efficient engine electronics for every function
All the engine functions are executed and controlled by a particularly efficient control unit. This state-of-the-art engine computer not only controls direct petrol injection, charge pressure, camshaft adjustment and variable oil supply but also communicates with all the other onboard control units, such as those of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. The microprocessor has more than 30,000 different parameters and functions stored in its memory, and is able to perform up to 260 million individual operations per second. To reduce the load on the engine control unit, the eight individual ignition coils have an integral electronic module on each cylinder. This ensures a strong ignition spark at all engine speeds and under all load conditions. The highly precise fuel distribution of the piezo-electric injectors is handled by eight high-voltage output stages.
Lightweight AMG sports exhaust system for a characteristic sound signature
The twin-pipe AMG sports exhaust system has a pipe cross-section of 70 millimetres from the manifolds to the rear silencers. The sound design is characterised by a perfect synthesis of tangible dynamism and hallmark Mercedes comfort on long journeys. Emotional appeal during acceleration and double-declutching combines with the appropriate restraint at steady speeds. A distinctive, signature AMG eight-cylinder sound emanates from the striking chrome twin tailpipes of the sports exhaust system.
Engine production – a tradition of hand-built excellence
Like all AMG high-performance engines, the biturbo eight-cylinder engine is assembled by hand in the hand-finishing section at AMG, observing the most stringent quality standards. Highly qualified engine fitters assemble the M 157 according to the philosophy "one man, one engine". The signature on the characteristic AMG engine plate attests to the painstaking care exercised by the fitter.
2. Power transmission: All-wheel drive for perfect dynamics
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7-speed sports transmission and the new, performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive complement the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine to perfection. These two high-tech systems raise the driving dynamics of the E 63 AMG to a new, unprecedented level.
The performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive is optionally available for the E 63 AMG rated at 410 kW (557 hp). The E 63 AMG S with 430 kW (585 hp) engine comes with all-wheel drive as standard. The technical basis is provided by a transfer case for the additional power take-off to the driven rear axle. This transfer case is integrated compactly into the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission and requires virtually no additional installation space. The torque is transmitted from the power take-off via a propeller shaft to the front axle. Power transmission from the front-axle differential to the front-left drive shaft is effected via an intermediate shaft which passes through an encapsulated shaft duct in the engine oil pan. The compact design results in additional weight of only around 70 kilograms.
In contrast to the series production vehicles, on the E-Class all-wheel drive models the engine torque is distributed to the front and rear axles at a ratio of 33 to 67 percent. This clearly rear-biased power distribution provides for signature AMG high driving dynamics and superlative driving enjoyment. The 3-stage ESP® has been tailored specifically to the permanent all-wheel drive system. In "SPORT Handling" mode, ESP® Curve Dynamic Assist performs selective braking intervention on individual wheels in the interests of high agility, thereby avoiding understeering when turning and cornering. In bends, specific brief braking of the inner rear wheel results in defined cornering of the vehicle.
The 3-stage ESP® system offers three individual control strategies at the push of a button: the ESP® button on the AMG DRIVE UNIT enables the driver to choose between the stages "ON", "SPORT Handling" mode and "OFF" – the display in the AMG instrument cluster indicates the currently active state. In "ESP ON" mode, the system initiates braking intervention on one or more wheels and reduces the engine torque on detecting that the operating conditions are becoming unstable. In "SPORT Handling" mode, the intervention thresholds in response to over- or understeering and the accompanying engine torque intervention allow higher levels of driving dynamics and corresponding drift angles. This provides for considerably enhanced driving enjoyment. Pressing the ESP® button longer activates "ESP OFF". This mode avoids reducing the engine torque in the interests of greater driving dynamics and even more fun at the wheel. "ESP OFF" should only be used by experienced drivers on cordoned-off race tracks. In both "SPORT Handling" mode and "ESP OFF", all the ESP® safety functions are available when braking.
Enhanced driving safety on wet or wintry road surfaces
The AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive also enhances driving safety and grip on wet or wintry road surfaces. Optimum traction is guaranteed by a multi-disk clutch with a locking effect of 50 Newton metres which exploits the frictional connection potential of all four wheels to the full on snow and ice in particular. This set-up enables high levels of traction by harnessing the dynamic shift in axle load toward the rear that occurs during acceleration to deliver more drive torque to the rear wheels.
However, the multi-disc differential lock is also able to shift the drive torque between the front and rear axles, varying the split between 30:70 and 70:30 as the road conditions dictate. Consequently, intervention by the 3-stage ESP®, 4ETS or ASR electronic control systems can be delayed for as long as possible and the bulk of the drive torque converted into tractive power, even on slippery roads. All control system interventions go virtually unnoticed, yet drivers still know straight away if they are driving near the limit, as a yellow warning symbol will flash in the AMG instrument cluster. This serves as a clear prompt to adapt the driving style to the road conditions.
E 63 AMG S-Model with differential lock on the rear axle
The E 63 AMG S sees Mercedes-AMG going one step further. True to AMG's "Driving Performance" brand claim, a mechanical differential lock is fitted on the rear axle of the most powerful E-Class model. This high-tech package results in a further increase in traction, ultimately leading to even greater driving dynamics and enhanced driving enjoyment, especially on the race track.
Exclusive AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission
RACESTART, double-declutching function, seven gears, four transmission modes and stop/start function: the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission in the E 63 AMG combines extreme emotional appeal, maximum driving pleasure and optimum economy. The transmission boasts a thrilling combination of unique options which no other automotive manufacturer is able to offer in this format.
The sports transmission is exclusive to Mercedes-AMG and combines the sporty, direct and agile responsiveness of a manual transmission with the maximum comfort of an automatic transmission. MCT stands for Multi-Clutch Technology and indicates that only clutch elements are employed to perform gearshifts. A compact wet start-up clutch, which runs in an oil bath, replaces the conventional torque converter. Thanks to its low rotational inertia, the transmission responds instantaneously and dynamically without the losses typical of a torque converter transmission – thereby helping to save fuel. The AMG sports transmission also impresses with its low weight of just 80 kilograms, which has been made possible through the use of lightweight magnesium for the transmission housing. Vibrations are effectively eliminated by a new, two-stage torsion damper, with resulting benefits in perceived passenger comfort.
ECO start/stop function fitted as standard
The ECO start/stop function fitted as standard is permanently active in fuel-efficient "Controlled Efficiency" ("C") driving mode. Once the driver comes to a halt, e.g. at a red traffic light or in a traffic jam, the engine is automatically switched off. When the brake pedal is released or the accelerator is depressed, the engine is immediately restarted and the car is able to move off quickly. Intelligent technology guarantees a comfortable and immediate starting procedure: a crankshaft sensor which recognises the direction of rotation registers the rest position of all eight pistons. For an automatic engine start, the cylinder with the most favourable piston position receives an injection of fuel into its combustion chamber. The precise piezo-electric injectors greatly assist this process, as they make particularly fast starts possible.
The engine management system ensures that the engine is only switched off if certain preconditions are met. The starter battery must have sufficient charge, for example, and the engine must be at the necessary operating temperature for efficient emissions control. The same applies to the interior temperature selected by the driver: if this has not yet been reached, the engine is not switched off when the car comes to a stop. The onboard network management system ensures that active audio, telephone or video functions are not interrupted by the start/stop function.
A green "ECO" symbol shows the driver when the start/stop function is active. Should one of the above criteria be preventing activation of the system, this is shown in the central display by the message "Start/stop inactive" and a yellow "ECO" symbol. In the more performance-oriented driving modes "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport plus) and "M" (Manual), the start/stop function is always deactivated.
Fuel-efficient Controlled Efficiency ("C") drive mode
In adapting the MCT sports transmission to the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine, the AMG engineers paid special attention to the new driving mode Controlled Efficiency ("C"). The emphasis was on attaining minimum engine speeds in the highest possible gears for all driving situations. When moving off in "C", the transmission always selects second gear and shifts markedly early to the next-highest gears if the driving style permits. At 60 km/h for instance, sixth gear will already be engaged – improving not only fuel consumption but also noise levels. Thanks to its powerful, readily available torque even at low engine speeds, the AMG V8 biturbo unit is absolutely ideal for this style of driving. Controlled Efficiency also means convenient gearshifts and a "soft" accelerator response set-up for outstandingly smooth power transfer.
Drive modes "S", "S+" and "M" for even greater driving pleasure and dynamism
In addition to Controlled Efficiency ("C"), three transmission modes are available to meet the demands of drivers looking for a more dynamic ride: in "S" (Sport) mode, the engine and transmission take on a much more agile character. Accelerator pedal movements trigger a more direct traction response, making the downshifts more spontaneous. The engine speed is allowed to reach a higher level in each gear, while the gearshifts in "S" are around 25 percent faster than in "C". Turning the rotary switch on the AMG DRIVE UNIT a notch further to the right activates "S+" mode. Sport plus shifts the gears another 25 percent faster than in "S". The same applies to the manual shift mode "M". In "S+" and "M" modes, gearshifts at full throttle take just 100 milliseconds.
The engine management system also partially suppresses cylinders in "S", "S+" and "M" modes: precisely interrupting ignition and injection under full load for brief periods leads to even faster gearshifts than before. An appealing side effect of this lightning-fast process is a highly emotional sound in response to every gearshift with wide open throttle.
Ultra-fast, spontaneous multiple downshifts are another forte of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. For instance, kickdown allows gearshifts straight from seventh down to fourth gear, or from fifth to second. In the "S", "S+" and "M" driving modes the automatic double-declutching function is active. Every manual or automatic downshift is accompanied by precisely metered double-declutching – with increasing intensity from "S" through "S+" to "M". And this not only adds to the driver's emotional experience: the load-free downshift minimises load-change reactions, which pays particular dividends when braking into bends – and also enhances safety in the wet
or on ice.
No automatic downshifts in manual "M" mode
In manual "M" mode the driver also benefits from the high torque of the V8 biturbo engine, as there is no automatic downshift under full load and kickdown; the transmission remains steadfastly in the selected gear. Moreover, the 7-speed sports transmission does not perform an automatic upshift in manual mode when the rev limit is reached. In "M" mode the AMG instrument cluster displays the current gear and provides the driver with a visual warning of the need for an upshift just before the needle reaches the red zone. This means that a particularly sporty driver can use the superior performance potential to its fullest extent. When approaching the lower rev limit, e.g. when braking the vehicle, there is an automatic downshift to the next lower gear.
The powerful electronic transmission control unit with integrated 200 MHz processor controls spontaneous downshifts – when the driver suddenly needs power for dynamic acceleration, for example.
AMG DRIVE UNIT with RACE START function
The AMG DRIVE UNIT is the central control unit for the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission and all driving dynamics functions. On the left next to the selector lever is the electronic rotary switch to select the four drive modes, including activation of the RACE START function. Underneath are three buttons for additional functions: the first controls the 3-stage ESP®, the second the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension.
The third, bearing AMG lettering, is used to store the personal set-up for transmission programme, suspension mode and 3-stage ESP®. Briefly pressing the AMG button brings up the configuration options, whilst holding down the button allows you to programme the required set-up - this is confirmed by an audible signal. The current settings may be viewed in the AMG instrument cluster by pressing the AMG button at any time.
The Race Start function delivers maximum dynamism: while the vehicle is at a standstill, the driver is able to activate SPORT Handling mode and press the brake pedal with his left foot. Having preselected the Race Start program using the rotary switch, a confirmation message comes up on the AMG central display. The driver then simply needs to confirm the Race Start function by pulling the "Up" shift paddle once, fully depressing the accelerator and taking his foot off the brake. The optimum start-up engine speed is set fully automatically and the E 63 AMG accelerates away with flawless traction – all the way up to top speed, if so required. The driver does not need to shift gear manually; the AMG MCT transmission changes gear in lightning-fast shift times.
~ Official photos and details courtesy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH ~
Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.