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Tuesday, April 9, 2013
Super foods for spring
Eat well, feel great and get ready for expending more energy outside this spring and summer with this list of my top ten spring super foods.
1. Spinach is a great source of iron, which helps fuel our muscles with oxygen for energy. Spinach holds several important phytochemicals, including lutein, which helps prevent age-related macular degeneration. And, it contains lipoic acid, which helps antioxidant vitamins C and E regenerate.
2. Plain Non-Fat Greek Yogurt has twice the protein of regular yogurt, as well as live-active cultures (i.e. the "good bacteria") that can help with digestive health. The tart flavor and thick consistency makes it a calorie-saving substitute in recipes for high-fat mayo and sour cream.
3. Blueberries are loaded with antioxidants. One cup of blueberries is a great source of fiber, and provides a burst of flavor for only around 80 calories.
4. Wild Salmon, like other cold-water fatty fish, is a lean protein source loaded in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which may aid in the fight against coronary heart disease. The American Heart Association recommends consuming two servings of cold-water fish a week.
5. Sweet Potatoes are high in potassium, vitamin C, caretonoids, and fiber. For a little extra fiber, eat the skin too, but make sure you scrub it well first. Since these are naturally sweet, you don't need to add any sugar or syrup, just poke a few holes and bake it in the oven to allow its natural sweetness to shine.
6. Red cabbage is not only low in calories, high in water and fiber and a go-to food for individuals trying to lose weight–it is also a good source of lycopene and lutein when cooked. Diets rich in lutein may help lower the risk of vision loss associated with aging such as developing cataracts or age-related macular degeneration.
7. Garlic is a little bulb with a powerful punch of flavor and health benefits. It has been thought for centuries to have a medicinal purpose when incorporated into one's diet. Research reveals that garlic may have an anti-bacterial effect, help protect against certain cancers and reduce blood cholesterol levels.
8. Quinoa, a South American super food, was once thought of as the "gold of the Incas" since it's packed with fiber, magnesium, potassium and zinc, a complex carbohydrate, and a complete protein. This makes quinoa a particularly good source of protein for vegetarians. It is also gluten-free, which makes it a good option for individuals with a gluten allergy or intolerance.
9. Beans (including soy beans such as edamame) are an excellent source of fiber, which may help lower your cholesterol, as well as provide protein without any saturated fat. Both protein and fiber can help you feel full longer. Half a cup of black beans provides seven grams of fiber and six grams of protein for about 100 calories.
10. Asparagus is the food highest in glutathione which is an important anti-carcinogen. It is also rich in two cancer-blocking vitamins (A and C) as well as the mineral selenium. Plus a 5 ounce serving is only 20 calories and is great in a chilled spring salad.
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the criticism of mild socialism -- including government-owned
utilities -- thus far commercial cable offerings in the U.S. have
fallen grossly short of successful municipal offerings.
Services like the municipal effort of Wilson, N.C. have offered
faster, cheaper internet than commercial offerings. Cable
companies have responded by pouring millions into lobbying local,
state, and federal governments to enact proposals to ban
municipal internet services. To date, they have seemed
unable to stamp out this pesky brand of community socialism.Now
Chattanooga, Tennessee is preparing to launch a new municipal service
which will offer speeds up to an incredible 1 Gbps. The
service, to be deployed by the end of the year, will be the fastest
household internet connection available in America today.Ron
Littlefield, the city's mayor, cheers, "This makes Chattanooga
— a midsized city in the South — one of the leading cities in the
world in its digital capabilities."The service will be
managed by city-owned utility EPB.
It will join just a handful of consumer 1 Gbps offerings worldwide,
including the fastest connections in the city of Hong Kong.
The service is almost 200 times faster than the average U.S.
broadband speed according to analysts.There are some
downsides of the super-fast service. One is the ability to
fully utilize the ultra-wide line. While transmission speeds
are somewhat dependent on what speed the downstream party can receive
data at, they are also dependent on how fast upstream parties can
serve the data at. So while you may be able to get a 25 GB
Blu-Ray movie in about three and a half minutes, in theory, few data
providers will be able to serve the movie that fast.Another
obstacle is the price – a whopping $350 a month. While the
city is also offering more affordable bundles that should beat the
rates of competitive commercial offerings, its top-tier option is
undeniably pricey. At that rate it may appeal more to
businesses than the majority of individual buyers.Comments
Harold DePriest, chief executive of EPB, "We don't know how to
price a gig. We're experimenting. We'll learn."The
new service will reach 170,000 homes and businesses in the area and
help add a bit more bang to citizens' buck, in a region
that Forbes magazine already
rates as one of "America's Best Bang-For-The-Buck
Cities.If President Obama has his way, a national
socialized internet offering will also soon arrive.
The President's FCC appointees are pushing plans to cover 100 million
homes with 100 Mbps by 2020. That connection would be one-tenth
the speed of Chattanooga's. Despite the sluggish
performance of cable giants like Comcast and Time Warner,
some commercial players are also looking to deploy high-speed
offerings. Google announced plans to cover up to 500,000
people with
1 Gbps internet. The service received 1,100 applications
from communities and Google will announce its pick(s) by the end of
the year.
quote: pesky government regulations, next time we will just have Comcast roll that trunk line right through your house.
quote: I don't know why he thinks it's ok for a private corporation to pay, but getting the shaft if the gov't pays instead. With eminent domain he doesn't even have the hassle of taking the offender to court unless he wants to haggle over the price :P
quote: Eminent domain and it's use is an abortion of the very reason we founded this country.
quote: Good uses: purchasing right of ways for highways at a reasonable market price instead of having to route the highway around "grandma's little plot of land" because she won't sell at any price or paying an exorbitant price charged by an overzealous land-grabber who may have had insider information about the highway route.
quote: Just as he says he would not get screwed by Comcast destroying his home because they would pay for it. An eminent domain seizure also pays the "Fair Market Value" of the property.
quote: You make me sick. All I hear from your "camp" is complaints about regulation and also complaints about attorneys ruining this country.
quote: Also, regulation is absolutely necessary. I don't want my family eating poison aspirin so that I can watch them die and then go sue Bayer and get their $$ worth. I want drug companies to have regulation of their production and testing standards.
quote: You anti-regulation people never take into consideration the start-up company that makes a product that is EXTREMELY harmful to the users... and then goes bankrupt after the first couple of lawsuits. What about the thousands of others who, now, have no one to sue? Where is the invisible hand of the market to correct that atrocity? I'd rather it didnt happen in the first place. Regulation is a necessary evil.
quote: Your comment on responsibility only carries so much weight. An educated consumer can make a purchased based on research at their disposal but is in no way a subject matter on each individual product purchased. We rely on these regulations and safeguards to help weed out the market and leave us with more appropriate choices than not. It might not eliminate all problems but it certainly does eliminate many.

subset: commoncrawl


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Netflix completes the open source giving cycle | Opensource.com
Netflix completes the open source giving cycle
Netflix gets it. They understand the power of open source.
Kevin McEntee, VP of Systems & ECommerce Engineering at Netflix wrote a blog post about how Netflix does more than just consume open source. McEntee highlights three key components of the open source way that typically equate to success. He doesn't refer to them this clearly, but the three components he's really talking about are:
- Open standards enable more participation and adoption
- Participation in communities of purpose has more meaning when you give back
- Contributing to open source projects and sharing knowledge completes the cycle
In his post, "Why we use and contribute to open source software," McEntee talks about the decision to use open source and open standards:
"...there is often the alternative choice of utilizing open source software, preferably open source software that implements an open standard. Open source software projects often originate as a labor of love by software developers who are tired of seeing a shared problem solved over and over again in one off solutions, or perhaps they realize that they can offer a more simple and elegant alternative to a commercial product."
In the rest of the post, McEntee outlines some of the open source projects that Netflix both consumes and contributes back to. Red Hat CEO Jim Whitehurst often talks about completing the cycle by encouraging customers to contribute to open source, the power of participation, and being a catalyst in communities. Whether Netflix qualifies as a catalyst in the open source communities they contribute to is an open question, but the fact that they actually give back is a big step that other companies often neglect to take.
"By sharing our bug fixes and new features back out into the community, the community then in turn continues to improve upon bug fixes and new features that originated at Netflix and then we complete the cycle by bring those improvements back into Netflix."
McEntee continues by talking about the passion shared by the contributors of a project, and not just the people employed by Netflix. Drupal founder and Acquia CTO, Dries Buytaert, often refers to this as "an itch to scratch." McEntee mentions open source helps address common problems with sustainable solutions that reduce the work of many by sharing a common fix to a problem:
"The great thing about a good open source project that solves a shared challenge is that it develops it's own momentum and it is sustained for a long time by a virtuous cycle of continuous improvement."
Finally, open source wouldn't be anything without a community of people. Another way that Netflix "gets it" is because they understand it's not just about their business. By contributing to a problem they share with others, Netflix actively participates and contributes to a community that improves and advances the experience for their customers, me included. McEntee explains it this way:
"We benefit from the continuous improvements provided by the community of contributors outside of Netflix."
Why don't more companies understand this? By the simple acts of participation and contribution, you can make improvements for more than just yourself or your business. It's that simple.
Why do you think companies are hesitant to share back to the communities they so willingly take from?
29 Comments
Netflix 'get' that they can get external developer time for free but as for contributing to the community? No so much that they've bothered to produce a linux client for their service.
Not at all mad about this. I'm not a Netflix customer and won't be even if they provide a linux client. However, to make such a fuss about commitment to open source and then not support an OSS desktop client is a little rich.
I've no objection to Netflix not providing a desktop client if they feel their customer base wouldn't be interested and I have no objection to them using OSS software and making a big deal of it. However, it seems that the two stances things should somehow be more closely tied in their (and our) thoughts than they are currently.
~~ Gaxx ~~
I do and it's rather annoying that I can't take any advantage of my monthly NetFlix subscription while on the road, either on my Fedora laptop or my Android phone.
Giving back something useful to open source end users would be awesome.... knock knock Netflix?
I am not sure how many Netflix subscribers use Linux (I am in that category). I am also not sure how many Linux users would use Netflix if it had a client for Linux.
However, if you look back at the techblog this blog refers to, there are currently 124 comments, and most of them are Linux users complaining about there not being a Linux client.
Also, there is an online petition here: http://www.petitiononline.com/mod_perl/signed.cgi?Linflix
There are currently almost 10,000 Linux users requesting a client. Albeit, that's probably not an accurate number.
I don't think this should be about numbers and operating systems. It should be about standards.
Hi Jason,
It's been a long time... I subscribe to Netflix. My kids live on it thanks to my TiVo HD and TiVo Premier. (I just realized you didn't know about my second son, Andrew. He's 3 now, and Christopher is 4) It would be wonderful if I could stream Netflix to my Linux desktop or my Android phone, but sadly that isn't going to happen as long as Netflix doesn't really get it. The Linux desktop and the Android phone are far too open for Netflix to consider porting a player to as god forbid somebody will figure out how to save a copy of some show so their kids could see it (again) in the car. Why it's fine to rent the DVD and take it in the car, but not streaming video...? DVD's get scratched and need replacement. There are enough Linux desktop users out there for Hulu to create a player for (although they do have unfathomable restrictions on all mobile devices) so the only technical reason I see that Netflix can't (or won't) support Linux is their dependence on Microsoft (Silverlight). And no, sadly Moonlight is not compatible enough to make it work.
Well, it's time to get off my soapbox. Let's agree to disagree on this one. Keep in touch!
The value of GNU/Linux is its "use" value. If you consider all the successful Internet IPOs of the last decade you can see them leveraging GNU/Linux and free software (what you call "open source").
Google, Facebook, Twitter (to name a few) *all* use GNU/Linux and free software because of its "use" value. They all contribute (including Netflix) back to the community of developers who build the software they "use" to make a profit. That's where their commitment ends.
They don't give a rat's behind about software freedom or "open source" as you call it. They only want to leverage "use" value to their own financial advantage and "contribute back" as a good "community" member because they know they will continue to receive the benefits of the bazaar style development model which works excellently and builds the worlds BEST software.
When Netflix caters to Windows users and Mac users and does nothing to help GNU/Linux users it speaks volumes. I'm not a Netflix user either.
So the fact Netflix client doesn't work on Linux, who's fault is it?
The studios for requiring a level of DRM that only Microsoft offers? Microsoft for not sharing their DRM with moonlight and only giving it to embedded Linux providers like Roku? Netflix for not getting better contracts which would allow for Linux support? Or us for not providing a Linux based DRM solution that meets the requirements?
Yes business do not give a "rat's behind" about anything but making money... but lets use that to our advantage.
The fact that Netflix caters to Windows and Mac users does speak volumes but I don't think it's speaking about Netflix entirely. I think it's speaking out that we have a hole that we as the Linux community need to fill. Let's face it, Netflix doesn't appear to want to exclude anyone, talking with the Dev team they seem to be branching into every area they legally can.
I am merely pointing out that Netflix is using non-proprietary software designed and distributed as free software which respects its users in order to digitally handcuff individuals with DRM.
Netflix could have purchased the software and development tools they use (or developed their own) and they could've built a 100% proprietary solution. Their work - their reward. Instead they use software written in the spirit of software freedom to kill individual digital freedom with DRM.
Only a Netflix appologist would put this on the "industry" or attempt to dismiss this as a lack of decent DRM technology in GNU, Linux or BSD software. Why would people who donate their time to the pursuit of software freedom built their own jail? Who would suggest it's their failure that it hasn't been done?
If they don't provide a Linux client, they will have very few (maybe none) Linux clients.
Why do I have, as a client, pay in advance for a service, service that might or might not be provided in some nebulous future?
What service will I get, as a Linux client, until they implement the feature for my OS of choice?
After all, I'm a client, not an investor!!! :-)
Their's no linux client because the studios want a specific level of DRM to allow their content to be streamed. Currently that level is Microsoft DRM.
So until someone in the opensource comes up with a sufficient DRM or Microsoft released the DRM to moonlight we're stuck!
It's not actually about which desktop has the most market share, it's the damn politics around this useless DRM stuff.
I don't get why networks think that DRM does any good. If a picture goes out to the screen, any DRM is useless by definition as it can be recorded in some medium not matter what measures networks put it place. They need to realize that the only effect these measures have are on the average Joe user, as whatever they do a skilled pirate will find their way around it.
And what really sucks is that they chose MICROSOFT of all companies to do the DRM. Did they really think that M$ would serve their entire market effectively? Had sense and bad decisions all around.
While Linux is Open Source, Open Source is not only Linux.
There are a number of open source projects that does not run on Linux, usually due to some technical issue, as the source code is available for anybody who wants to, to try and port it.
I agree that if the open source community can build a better DRM-like technology that satisfies the media producer's rights while making it more accessible (like to Linux) then that would provide the greatest freedom of all because no single entity can control/edit/change the technology as they like!
DRM is a failing strategy. Putting F/OSS development efforts into it is a waste of time. Some reading for you to bring you up to speed:
Readers Digest summary: computers & networks copy files, that's what they do. Trying to make them not do that is foolish.
I agree DRM is a useless technology and anyone with a camcorder or DVD recorder can get around video DRM technology.
However, if we remember back in the day Beta was the better technology... didn't seem to matter though. So if Linux or other OS want's to play ball in a Microsoft world we need to add some of the stupidity, at least till Linux OS share goes from 5% to 30-50%. Then we can start dictating the politics, and make things right. A little wasting now might be a big gain in the future!
Just my two cents.
What's the alternative?
DRM is used because there is little alternative to keep some control of content.
DRM does not provide "control of content", nor does it provide "control of customers". It's a chimera. Once something is in digital form, it can be copied repeatedly with no loss of fidelity. That's how it gets from one computer to another, or even one location on the same computer to another. Once the data has been extracted from its DRM "envelope", guess what, it is still in digital form and the above rules still apply. Trying to change that is a fool's errand.
DRM just doesn't work and it never will. Never in the history of humankind has copying ever got harder from one year to the next (or decade to the next etc). It _is_ possible that the trend will reverse (as the studios seem to hope) but I'm betting on the precedent of the entirety of human history to prevail rather than the DRM snakeoil salesmen.
The very hardest it's ever going to get to copy a movie, for instance, is pointing your digital camcorder at the screen when playing a DRM'd movie. And keep in mind that the general person in the street doesn't need to know anything about DRM or breaking it... for them it's a web search and a download button.
All in all - DRM causes problems for the consumer, costs for the distributors/studios (which get passed on to the consumer) and serve no useful purpose. Any claims to the contrary are pretty flimsy constructs of smoke and mirrors.
It really doesn't matter if DRM is any good or not. If it provides enough comfort to the studios/networks, then open source needs to provide a solution if they want the content.
Well said!
The real problem with piracy and specifically anti-piracy groups is they aren't willing to deal with why people pirate. They just want to stop piracy because their finding they can make more money through legal action.
You take a student, who can't afford their next meal and is expected to buy a $300 software product they'll never use. (because they enjoy opensource products) So they pirate. So if we stop piracy is it going to give this kid money? Is it going to allow this kid to afford their next meal and that software? NO
What about people who pirate movies or TV Shows. If I don't pirate -- not that I do I'm on a mission to be 100% legal which is why I run Linux -- is my salary going to increase allowing me to purchase those $24 movies (which suck anyways)? NO
DRM and anti-piracy is just a smoke screen because the networks/studios don't want to deal with the real issue. They'd rather deal with the symptoms that the actual cause.
So it's up to us to keep ourselves honest? Great. Judging by politicians and corporations in the news, that's not a very rosy prospect.
Most studies have shown that there's only ever a positive impact on sales when stuff is available illegally or legally for free...
Maybe not intuitive heartwarming nonetheless
I'll give you 1 guess as to when iTunes music went DRM-free...
This has nothing to do with DRM. Hulu has DRM and they manage just fine by using flash. There is no reason why Netflix couldn't do the same or build a proprietary app with the DRM in it. They have after all created the software for Roku and GoogleTV both of which are Linux based if I remember correctly. The software exists and works. I wouldn't exactly call Netflix a good community member. They could do better.
I'll believe that Netflix is for open source when they start advocating for and using html5 video/audio tag and webm.


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Family Fest forum Friday
The Family Fest Committee has scheduled an informational meeting at noon Friday at the Community Hospice Care office, 181 E Perry St..
This is for anyone interested in participating with Family Fest April 5.
workshop set
New Transitions Counseling in Tiffin is sponsoring a workshop, "Understanding Drug or Alcohol Addiction and Family Recovery," 9-10:30 a.m. Saturday in the Campus Center at Heidelberg University.
The seminar is free.
Those concerned about a loved one's drinking or drug use are invited to attend and receive tips on how to handle such behavior. Joanne Kosta, licensed mental health and substance abuse counselor, is to be the presenter.
For more details, call (419) 448-4094.
Arts council to meet Saturday
FOSTORIA - Fostoria Community Arts Council is to have its annual meeting at 9 a.m. Saturday in the main office at 125 S. Main St., Fostoria.
Vintage photos to be shown
SYCAMORE - The Sycamore Post 250 Sons of the American Legion and the Mohawk Historical Society are to present "Wings and a Picture Show" Saturday at the hall, 125 S. Sycamore Ave., Sycamore.
Wings and fries will be served 5-7 p.m. at a cost of $9. In tandem, the Mohawk Historical Society will present a "big screen" picture show 5-7:30 p.m., featuring vintage photographs of the Sycamore, Melmore, McCutchenville, Berwick, Mexico, Belle Vernon, Plankton, Deunquat, Benton, Smithville and Tymochtee areas.
Gather 'round, Civil War fans
The Johnson's Island Civil War Round Table is to meet at 7 p.m. Sunday at T.J. Willie's, 738 W. Market St. During the program, "Look, Listen, Learn" members will describe how they became interested in the war.
An optional "chat and dine" hour is to begin at 5:15 p.m.
Scrapbooking days offered
FOSTORIA - Good Shepherd Home is to host its sixth annual Scrapbook Day 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday.
Reserve a spot with a $10 registration fee. Call (419) 937-1801 or (419) 595-2446.
The Tiffin Mothers of Twins is planning a day for scrapbookers 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Feb. 1 at First United Baptist Church, 419 Coe St.
The cost is $30 and includes a full table, lunch, dinner, drinks and snacks, goodie bags, door prizes, make-and-takes and contests.
To register, call (419) 937-7374 by Monday.


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Author sponsors writer competition
CHARLES TOWN - Entries for the annual Charles and Wilhelmina O'Connor Author Competition must be postmarked by Monday, Dec. 31.
The competition is open to anyone who resides in Jefferson County or is a member of the Jefferson County Historical Society, has not ever published a book before, and is in the final stages of writing a non-fiction or fiction book, play or children's book about the history of Jefferson County.
The contest offers the winner a professionally published book, an e-book and marketing materials for the promotion of their book. The competition is being held in cooperation with Infinity Publishing of West Conshohocken, Pennsylvania and the Jefferson County (WV) Historical Society.
According to local author Bob O'Connor, the competition honors his parents who are both deceased. "My mother and father were huge supporters of my writing from elementary school on. This is a way for me to keep their legacy alive."
The author said he wanted to encourage potential authors to submit. "I am trying to find writers who may not know how to get their writings published. Often they find publishing much harder than actually writing a book."
The author and his siblings who live in other parts of the country plus a member of the Jefferson County Historical Society Board of Directors will judge the competition. Manuscripts will be sent to the judges without the author's name to insure impartiality.
The winning entry will be announced at the end of March.
The winning author will be allowed a whole year to complete his or her project prior to having it published.
O'Connor himself has published seven books.
He has been named Finalist for four national book awards competition by the Indie Excellence Awards and USA Book News since 2006.
All rules and criteria for submission to the competition may be found on the Jefferson County Historical Society website at jeffer sonhistoricalwv.org.
Blues competition to be held in Jan.
MARIETTA, Ohio - The Blues, Jazz & Folk Music Society of Marietta, Ohio announce their 21st annual River City Blues Competition, the oldest and largest blues talent competition in the state of Ohio. Last year's competition saw 18 great blues acts.
For those blues bands or solo/duo acts who wish to compete go to www.bjfm.org. Click on the link "Looking for Blues Talent." There you will find links to the rules and application. Deadline to apply is Friday, Jan. 4.
For tickets or information call Peggy (evenings) at 740-376-0222 or Mary Ann at 304-422-2944.


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You want to take your kids on an unforgettable adventure in one of our spectacular national parks—but which one? In his new book, 100 Places That Can Change Your Child's Life, editor, author, and dad Keith Bellows names the best parks for families—and much more. See his 11 park picks below, then get more expert tips and travel destinations in the book.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho
Photograph by Robbie George, National Geographic
"National parks are the best idea we ever had," wrote American novelist and environmentalist Wallace Stegner. "Absolutely American, absolutely democratic, they reflect us at our best rather than our worst."
When President Ulysses S. Grant signed the bill creating Yellowstone Park in 1872, it became the world's first national park—and a boon to family explorers past and present. Now the National Park System includes 397 areas (58 designated as "national parks"), encompassing more than 84 million acres. But Yellowstone, whose two-million-plus remote and rugged acres encompass half of Earth's geothermal features, stands as the first—an enduring testament to the mission statement etched on the giant stone Roosevelt Arch at the park's North Entrance: "For the benefit and enjoyment of the people."
"Yellowstone always gives me hope that this country is capable of protecting an area of the park's size, because we did it at one point. Ask kids to imagine what would have happened if we hadn't," says David Gafney, a former Yellowstone interpretive ranger, a seasonal interpretive ranger, and author of Yellowstone, Grand Loop Drive Interpretive Road Guide. Spanning Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, "it's a high volcanic plateau that is inspiring because of its size, wildness, and location. Kids can look in all directions and be surrounded by higher mountains, and everywhere they turn there is tremendous diversity—wildlife, geysers, and geothermals, a petrified forest, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone."
Because Yellowstone is so huge, Gafney suggests breaking up the visit into kid-captivating daily chunks, such as a day each for mammals, thermal features, and waterfalls. This is similar to the format followed by Yellowstone for Families, a three-day, small-group program offered by the nonprofit Yellowstone Association. The association also has naturalists for hire who can re-create some or all of the program's activities for individual families.
"A lot of people think Yellowstone is only Old Faithful, wolves, and bison, and that's all their kids get to see," says the association's Rebecca Kreklau. "Participating in a program created specifically for kids opens up the whole family's perspective, and lets everyone experience everything that is out there without wearing them out. We go out wildlife-watching and have laser guns so kids can take temperatures of thermal features. We show younger kids how to track earthworms, and show older kids some of [painter] Thomas Moran's work to help them see how his art helped to create this park."
Read more in 100 Places That Can Change Your Child's Life, by Keith Bellows
Arches National Park, Utah
Photograph by Philip and Karen Smith, Getty Images
"This park is way better than any video game," says 13-year-old Alex Schaefer as he clambers up the base of Double Arch, one of more than 2,000 sandstone arch formations that form the filigreed lanscape of Arches National Park. "I really like that I can get so close to—and even sit under—many of the arches. And the sandstone rock is so smooth and curvy that it makes climbing super fun."
These words—music to many parents' ears—sum up what thousands of visitors experience each year at this most interactive of national parks.
"You really can't beat Arches for broad appeal," says Alex's father, Wolfgang Schaefer. "The rock formations here—arches, windows, fins, spires, buttes, towers, domes—and the rich colors of the sandstone make it a visual and recreational wonderland. It's a video game come to life."
Five miles north of the adventure town of Moab, in eastern Utah—and just 40 miles from vast Canyonlands National Park—Arches was born of a unique geology that, eroded by winds, rains, and ice, has yeilded the richest concentration of arch and "window" formations in the world. Headliners include Double Arch, two immense arches that share a common support column; Landscape Arch, one of Earth's longest arches; Balanced Rock, a boulder balanced at an unlikely angle on a stone spire; a congregation of arches known as Devils Garden; and Fiery Furnace, a warren of passageways between stone fins and walls that plunk you right into your own action adventure (and are best explored on a guided hike).
The superstar of them all? Delicate Arch (pictured), a monolith rising at the center of its own natural amphitheater that may be the most photographed arch on the planet and is best viewed at dawn or sunset, when the sun's rays seem to fire up the salmon-hued sandstone from within.
"Compared to the mega parks—Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and nearby Canyonlands—Arches is so easy and accessible," says Schaefer. "The 36-mile scenic loop road takes you to the main sights and trailheads, and many of the trails are the perfect length—less than a mile—for kids."
Read more in 100 Places That Can Change Your Child's Life, by Keith Bellows
Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
Photograph by Ian Shive, Tandem
Petrified Forest National Park is truly the land before time—tell the kids that the fossilized plants and animals found here date back to pre-dinosaur days.
Stretching north and south between Interstate 40 and Highway 180 in northeastern Arizona, the area contains one of the world's largest concentrations of petrified wood, 200-million-year-old fossils, and archaeological objects documenting 13,000 years of human history.
It's also one of the most convenient places to walk with kids into the Painted Desert badlands—the erosion-striped mudstone and clay slopes, mesas, and buttes located primarily within the Navajo Nation.
Although striking, the badlands backdrop quickly can become boring to a kid watching the view roll by from the passenger seat. It's only by stepping into the "forests" (large accumulations of petrified logs), and seeing and feeling the petrified material, that kids realize the "wood" they saw from a distance is mostly silica—rainbow-colored quartz. Park paleontologist Bill Parker suggests visiting the most kid-friendly of the park's "forests"—Crystal Forest, accessible via a short hike. "The logs and views are most spectacular here, and kids can get really close to the wood," he says.
"Touching the petrified wood and seeing the other fossils is an important part of the process of understanding. It helps kids realize that the Earth and life in general has changed significantly through the eons. Petrified Forest is one place where they can step back in time and experience this firsthand."
Read more in 100 Places That Can Change Your Child's Life, by Keith Bellows
Great Sand Dunes, Colorado
Photograph by Thomas Peipert, AP
There's no mystery to what kids will love about Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. It's the sand, sand, and more sand, including North America's highest dunes—650-foot High Dune and 750-foot Star Dune.
Dirk Oden, a local parent, teacher, and former seasonal interpretive ranger who leads youth group trips to remote areas of the 100,000-acre park, suggests using the sculpted sand behemoths as a magnet to draw in kids to all the ecological zones represented here—alpine tundra, desert, grasslands, wetlands, dunes, forests, alpine lakes, and 13,000-foot peaks.
"Great Sand Dunes is an amazing place. The best time to go is early June, when Medano Creek is running wide yet shallow through the main access area—the creek dries up later in the summer," Oden explains. "Catch a children's program to get an introduction to this wonder and then let your children play and explore in and along the creek. Build sand sculptures and chase fingers of the creek as they mysteriously advance and retreat, or explore further, making sure to take the time to roll down at least one of the dunes." (By the way, there are no poisonous animals or insects to fear in the dunes.)
Though a challenging hike, kids can make the High Dunes climb—about one to two hours up and 45 minutes down—to get a hawk's-eye view of the surrounding Sangre de Cristo and San Juan Mountain alpine peaks. Don't be fooled by the splotches of snow on surrounding tors, though. This place is often scorching. Surface sand temperatures can rise to 140°F on summer days. Visit in late spring, when the dunes aren't too hot to climb.
Oden suggests attempting the climb early in the morning, when the weather is cool, the wind is low, and the kids are of full energy. Take plenty of water and have them wear tennis shoes or hiking boots to protect their feet when the sand gets as hot as you know where. Beware: The winds can top 40 miles an hour, but it is these winds that give the dunes their shape.
Don't make any promises, but come prepared to (legally) slide, ski, sled, or board down any unvegetated areas of the dunes. The kids will want to join in if the weather allows any X Games–worthy boarding action on the sand.
Read more in 100 Places That Can Change Your Child's Life, by Keith Bellows
Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park
Photograph by Hugh Gentry, Reuters
For kids, watching Kilauea's fire-red lava drizzling down the side of the volcano and sizzling into the ocean conjures up images of a mammoth wizard's boiling cauldron, a sci-fi planet shaped out of mysterious goo, or, true to Hawaiian tradition, the goddess of fire—Madame Pele—making her presence known by breathing fire.
The mystical and magical forces at work on the Big Island's lush 330,000-acre Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park extend far beyond two of the world's most active volcanoes—Kilauea and Mauna Loa—but it is the volcanic wonders that mesmerize kids, says Julie Mitchell, general manager of the community-based Friends of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park.
"From steam vents, steaming bluff, and sulfur banks to the fuming vent at Halema'uma'u Crater, nothing is more exciting than seeing the Earth as alive and dynamic," Mitchell explains. "The volcanic forces that shaped the Hawaiian Islands are visible here in a way that can help kids envision how much of the world was formed."
Seeing the living, breathing volcanoes inspires amazement, creativity, and tons of rapid-fire questions from curious young adventurers. To help kids understand what they are seeing, Mitchell suggests heading first to the Kilauea Visitor Center to watch a movie about the volcano, explore the interactive displays, listen to the sounds of the rain forest, and see dioramas of creatures who live in the park.
While there, pick up a copy of the Junior Ranger Handbook: A Guide to Discovery and Exploration of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. By working through the booklet to earn the Junior Ranger badge, kids learn how scientists measure changes in the volcanoes, can see and touch different types of lava rock at the park's Jaggar Museum, watch seismographs track earthquake activity, and learn the sacred stories of Kilauea's and Hawai'i's gods and goddesses.
Park education specialist Joni Mae Makuakane-Jarrell says the goal of the Junior Ranger program—and of all the ranger-led activities—is for kids to "have fun as they explore, discover, and fall in love with the park. In this ever changing landscape, you never know where or when an eruption will be seen on the Kilauea or Mauna Loa volcanoes. Here, the very ground you walk on is a wahi kapu (a sacred place) and the home of the fire goddess, Pelehonuamea."
Read more in 100 Places That Can Change Your Child's Life, by Keith Bellows
Denali National Park, Alaska
Photograph by Michael DeYoung, Alaska Stock/Alamy
On December 2, 1980, President Jimmy Carter put pen to paper preserving 79.53 million acres of Alaska wilderness. In just one day, the unprecedented Alaska National Interests Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA) he signed into law created ten new national park properties, increased the size of three others, and set aside additional public acreage for the U.S. Forest Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Of the new parks—including Arctic, Glacier Bay, Katmai, Kenai Fjords, Kobuk Valley, and Lake Clark—13.2-million-acre Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve instantly became the nation's largest.
Most of Alaska's newest parks are pretty remote and rugged, so to help kids begin to comprehend the enormity of what the legislation achieved (and to launch loftier discussions about the American democratic process, how laws are made, and land use), take them to the most famous park (and one of the more accessible ones) included in the law. Originally called Mount McKinley National Park when it was established in 1917, Alaska's first national park was renamed and expanded by ANILCA as Denali National Park and Preserve. The area is named after the Athabaskan term for "high one." Its massive centerpiece—20,320-foot-tall Mount McKinley, or Denali—is North America's tallest peak, requiring a near backbend for kids to be able to look high enough in the sky to see the top, which is often obscured with clouds from the severe weather on the mountain. Because the sheer size of the peak and the six-million-acre park can make kids feel extra small, Anne Beaulaurier, program coordinator at Camp Denali and North Face Lodge, suggests engaging in earthbound activities.
Start with the hands-on, educational exhibits at the Denali Visitor Center and Murie Science and Learning Center, followed by a bus ride out to the Eielson Visitor Center. "The kids can keep their eyes open for wildlife and ask the bus driver lots of questions. On the way, hike in the Thorofare Pass area on the open alpine tundra," says Beaulaurier. Although spotting moose, caribou, grizzly bears, sheep, and beavers from the bus or trail is a natural highlight for kids, Beaulaurier says joining a guided hike allows them to learn from trained naturalists and absorb Denali in a more meaningful way.
Read more in 100 Places That Can Change Your Child's Life, by Keith Bellows
Grand Canyon, Arizona
Photograph by Richard Perry, The New York Times/Redux
For too many kids, seeing the Grand Canyon—277 river miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and a mile deep—is just an hour spent staring out over the abyss, posing for photos, and jostling with other tourists for prime viewing spots without ever dipping a single sneaker below the rim.
Yet, below the rim, says botanist and wilderness skills expert Mike Masek, is precisely where kids need to go to begin to appreciate the Grand Canyon's natural, geologic, and historical wonders.
"The Grand Canyon is not just an object to be seen, it is an experience to relish for a lifetime," Masek explains. "Each child should spend time hiking below the rim. The immensity of the canyon makes people think big. While this is rewarding, the true nature of the canyon comes alive upon closer inspection."
Taking a day hike or participating in a ranger-led hiking program gives kids the chance to safely examine little treasures they would miss from the rim, like the fossils in the rock layers, lizards basking in the sun, and desert wildflowers and wildlife, Masek adds.
"As they are walking down the trail, have the kids stop and look back up to see the work that went into building the trail," he advises. "Point out the transition from one rock layer to the next. Encourage them to think about the different body responses they experience when descending and climbing."
Both Masek and Flagstaff-based wilderness guide and forester Brad Ball suggest taking the South Kaibab Trail to Cedar Ridge, a three-mile round-trip hike that's appropriate for kids, yet still offers a 360-degree view of the inside of a canyon.
Read more in 100 Places That Can Change Your Child's Life, by Keith Bellows
Glacier Bay National Park and Perserve, Alaska
Photograph by Rich Reid, Tandem
No roads lead from Juneau to Glacier Bay, so for kids, getting there—either by air or water—pumps up the adventure quotient and offers a whale's- or bird's-eye view of how the Earth has changed since the last ice age.
On the trip over or through Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, let the kids know that the shorelines and islands they see were covered by ice 200 years ago. Gliding back from the bay to the glaciers gives kids a visual time line of the melting ice through views of the vegetation.
Point out to them that the land nearest the bay (where the ice first receded) is lushly forested, while the plants and trees shrink and thin out as they move toward the barren ice face. The new vegetation has provided ample nutrition for wolves, moose, mountain goats, ptarmigan, and brown and black bears to survive. The sea also supports a new—in geologic time, less than 200 years old—food chain for salmon, bald eagles, harbor seals, harbor porpoises, humpback whales (which summer here after wintering near Hawai'i), and killer whales.
Of course, the monster ice blocks in motion provide the biggest "wow" moments for wide-eyed kids. The park has nine tidewater glaciers, each of which emits a thunderous roar when it "calves"—chucking thousand-year-old icebergs (some up to 200 feet high) into the water. "What can compare to watching a tidewater glacier calve into the ocean?" says Steve Schaller, Glacier Bay's supervisory park ranger. "Glaciers have a tremendous influence on the land, and most kids have only seen this activity on television. Glacier Bay is one place on Earth that they can still experience the power of a calving glacier." Cruise ships ply the bay, but a one-day charter tour boat offers a more intimate sightseeing experience and can travel closer to the shore.
For an even closer look at the richness of the area, head to Bartlett Cove to take the kids on a guided kayak tour of the glacier-nourished water, vegetation, and marine life.
Read more in 100 Places That Can Change Your Child's Life, by Keith Bellows
Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
Photograph by Jim West, Alamy
When President Theodore Roosevelt established Mesa Verde in 1906, it became the first national park created to "preserve the works of man."
More precisely, the southwestern Colorado park protects the remnants of stone neighborhoods constructed by the ancestral Puebloan, the people who lived on the Mesa Verde ("green table") from a.d. 600 to a.d. 1300. There are more than 4,000 known archaeological sites here, the most recognizable—and most appealing to kids—being the 600 cliff dwellings built high within the canyon's sheltered alcoves.
Climbing up, down, over, and through this ancient jungle gym community will delight any child. It is the story of the people who built the structures, though, that helps kids to grasp what makes Mesa Verde truly amazing: the engineering, the history, the traditions, and the culture.
To help prepare her sons for their first Mesa Verde visit, Colorado teacher and mom Betsy Henry sat down with the kids to look through history and travel books related to the site. Developing a basic appreciation for the civilization before traveling and seeing photos of the cliff dwellings helped build excitement.
"When they recognize what they are seeing, it has a lot more interest to them," observes Henry. "We also had talked about ancient Rome and Greece, so to discover some ruins in our own country and state was really neat for them. Another helpful educational tool is the park's Junior Ranger booklet. You can download and print it off the Mesa Verde National Park website ahead of time to prep the kids about what they are going to see."
Read more in 100 Places That Can Change Your Child's Life, by Keith Bellows
Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina
Photograph by Shawn Poynter, The New York Times/Redux
"We have a nature deficit among kids in this country," says Emily Guss, ranger at Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited in the nation, "but kids will be excited by nature, if we only let them see it and touch it and be in it. Since I was a kid, I played in the woods and learned a lot about life and death by observing nature. The Smokies is a special place for kids because there's beauty everywhere—and there's mystery and exploration. Our kids' world is so shaped by TVs and computers. What they experience here is completely different."
The 500,000-acre national park (a combination international biosphere reserve and World Heritage site) and its fringes—straddling Tennessee and North Carolina—is one of the richest biodiversity zones in America (more than 13,500 species have been identified in the park, and scientists believe many hundreds more are yet to be discovered). This is a place where children meet nature head-on.
You'll encounter as much biodiversity walking up a mountain in the Smokies as you will hiking 2,000 miles from Georgia to Maine on the Appalachian Trail. There are, for example, 19 kinds of fireflies, 39 reptiles (including turtles, lizards, and snakes), 43 amphibians, 200 birds, and 66 native mammals. Some species, like Rugel's ragwort and Jordan's (red-cheeked) salamander, are found nowhere else.
For ten days in early June, the Smokies host a flash mob of fireflies, insects that are America's only species that can synch their flickering light patterns with each other. To view them, plan ahead and skip the public trolleys. Meet at Elkmont's Little River trailhead, and tour with a naturalist ($10 from the Great Smoky Mountains Association, free for adult-accompanied kids under 12).
This is also the salamander capital of the world; the park harbors 30 species, giving it the planet's most diverse population. "Catching" salamanders in the park is illegal. So the only safe way for kids to hunt for, capture, examine, and then return salamanders to their habitat unharmed is through a ranger- or naturalist-led program—one of the many hands-on junior ranger and Smoky Mountain Field School opportunities available to kids in the park.
Read more in 100 Places That Can Change Your Child's Life, by Keith Bellows
Sierra Nevada Parks, California
Photograph by Mark Crosse, Fresno Bee/MCT/Getty Images
California's side-by-side, southern Sierra Nevada national parks—Sequoia and Kings Canyon—collectively are known as the "land of giants."
And for good reason: Everything here is super-duper-size, from 14,494-foot Mount Whitney (tallest mountain in the lower 48 states, partially located in Sequoia) to the cloud-climbing trees, including the world's largest single-trunk tree—the 275-foot-tall General Sherman sequoia in Sequoia's Giant Forest (where kids will love riding through the "Tunnel Log" cut through another 275-foot tree that fell along Crescent Meadow Road in 1937).
The giant attractions, although spectacular, are obvious and easily viewed from the passenger seat of the family car. That's why junior explorers in particular will delight in discovering the flip side of the parks, where more than 200 marble caves are hidden under the surface.
Steve Fairchild, who grew up in Kings Canyon and now leads family cave and canyoneering tours here, says the views and ecosystems underground are different from anything kids will see up top.
"Kids are amazed when we tell them that what they find inside the cave is what it looks like from under a giant coral reef," he says. "About 100 million years ago we had gigantic coral reefs that were pulled underneath the continent and pushed up into the Sierra to the spot where they now stand. They understand immediately that they are seeing something that few kids get to see."
The year-round 55-degree temperatures make caves comfortable, living classrooms in which kids can learn by seeing, asking questions, and, most important, doing, adds Fairchild.
He designs kid-friendly tours of nearby Boyden Cavern (pictured) and of natural river caves and canyons downstream. Additional cave tours are offered at Crystal Cave. Sequoia-size, underground expeditions available to young Kings Canyon visitors—including Pirate River Cave Adventures, where kids rappel down canyon walls—are designed to help convey basic geology and speleology knowledge while building outdoor skills.
"On the world scale, Boyden Cavern is not big, but it is a perfect size for kids," says Fairchild. "They can crawl beyond the trail with the guides, explore, and then pop back out on the trail. Kids have an innate sense of adventure, so when they go down in the lower section of the cave, they can't believe they are allowed to go somewhere so wild—no handrails, no cement, just boulders and a stream bed. They look back up at mom and dad and say: 'We get to go down there?' They can't believe it. That makes the trip for them."
Read more in 100 Places That Can Change Your Child's Life, by Keith Bellows
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Two in custody after police raid Jamestown, N.Y., house
JAMESTOWN, N.Y. -- Two Jamestown, N.Y., men are in custody after New York State Police raided their home Friday afternoon and found items used to make methamphetamine.
Joseph Snyder, 28, and Dustin Verrett, 23, both of 181 Barrows St., were taken to Jamestown City Jail and await felony charges, Jamestown City Police said.
An investigation by Jamestown City Police, New York State Police and the Department of Homeland Security led to the raid, which was conducted around 5 p.m. by the state police's Special Operations Response Team.
A search continues for a third suspect, 38-year-old Donald Dean, also of 181 Barrows St.
Anyone who may know the whereabouts of Dean is asked to call Jamestown City Police at (716) 483-7537.


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After your website visit, would you be willing to answer a few brief questions?
Good things come to those who plan ahead. Whether planning for a local staycation, weekend retreat, or family vacation, book your stay online – at least 7 days in advance – at any participating Ramada hotel and get 15% off our Best Available Rate, PLUS receive 200 Wyndham Rewards bonus points!* This rate is exclusive to Wyndham Rewards members.
Not a member? Not a problem! You can join Wyndham Rewards during our easy checkout process to earn 200 Wyndham Rewards bonus points.
Use our convenient booking widget to the left to find your destination and book your stay! Find the "Pay Now, Get 200 Points" price under our Rooms & Rates tab on each hotel webpage. Save money now when you plan ahead!


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Fun Places
The Rippingtons
One of the most popular groups in what is loosely termed "contemporary jazz", the Rippingtons were formed (and have been led ever since) by guitarist/keyboardist Russ Freeman (no relation to the veteran West Coast bop pianist of the same name). Freeman (born February 11, 1960, in Nashville) studied at Cal Arts and UCLA, and recorded Nocturnal Playground as a leader in 1985 for the Brainchild label, a one-man project. In 1987, he was approached to record for the Japanese Alfa label and came up with the Rippingtons name for the all-star group he used on the disc (Moonlighting), an ensemble featuring David Benoit, Kenny G., and Brandon Fields. Their album was released domestically by Passport and became a hit. Freeman soon formed a regular touring band (usually including saxophonist Jeff Kashiwa, bassist Kim Stone, drummer Tony Morales, and percussionist Steve Reid), cut a second disc for Passport, and the group recorded regularly for GRP. Russ Freeman writes all of the music for the Rippingtons, much of which falls in the pop/R&B genre. In the late '90s, the group moved over to the Windham Hill label, recording such albums as Black Diamond (1997), Topaz (1999), Live! Across America, and Life in the Tropics (both in 2000). Scott Yanow
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Serves 16 |
Prep Time 10 minutes |
Cook Time 0 minutes
45 ounces Eden Garbanzo Beans, 3 cans, drained, reserve liquid
1/4 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed
3 cloves garlic, chopped
1 tsp Eden Sea Salt, or to taste
1 dash cayenne pepper
1/2 tsp ground sweet paprika
2 Tbsp fresh parsley, minced
1 cup pitted black olives
Place the garbanzos, 1/2 cup reserved bean liquid, lemon juice, garlic, sea salt, and spices in a food processor or blender. Puree until creamy and smooth, adding a bit more bean liquid if needed for desired consistency. Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with paprika and parsley. Set olives around the edges and place one in the center of the hummus. Serve with Eden Brown Rice Chips or warm organic pita bread.
Appetizer, Beans, Condiments, Gluten-Free, Low Fat, Macrobiotic, Mediterranean, No Sweetener Added, Snacks, Vegan, Wheat-Free


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Private Land Claim of Luis Mesa
Translation from the archivist of the U.S. Surveyor General's office in California of the original Mexican title to the disputed lands (1870), RG 46, Records of the United States Senate, National Archives.
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Become a Sustaining Member
Give monthly! Support public radio and the programming you value throughout the year.
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Boundary Waters Resort & Marina
Hiawassee, GA 30546
706-896-2530 | 800-323-3562
Escape to the shores of beautiful Lake Chatuge with Boundary Waters Resort & Marina. Only minutes from downtown Hiawassee, Georgia, our peaceful lakeside resort is the ideal vacation getaway in the North Georgia mountains. Located two hours from Atlanta, our resort and marina offers scenic and secluded accommodations for a family vacation, a romantic getaway or a day of boating pleasure.
Enjoy a leisurely cruise on North Georgia's beautiful Lake Chatuge aboard one of our TriToon pontoon boats, sport pontoon boats or runabout rentals. Pull into a quiet cover for a picnic and swim, or try your hand at fishing. Get ready for an exciting day of watersports with one of our deluxe ski boat, deck boat, wakeboard boat or jet ski rentals, and then relax in our quiet mountain setting.
Our North Georgia Resort features a deluxe fleet of boat rentals and a 200-slip marina. Our full-service marina offers an in-the-water showroom with the latest in luxury TriToons. Boundary Waters is the #1 JC TriToon dealer in the country. Come visit us today!
Info & Amenities
Hours of Operation
Sunday: 8:30AM - 5:30PM
Monday: 8:30AM - 5:30PM
Tuesday: 8:30AM - 5:30PM
Wednesday: 8:30AM - 5:30PM
Thursday: 8:30AM - 5:30PM
Friday: 8:30AM - 5:30PM
Saturday: 8:30AM - 5:30PM
Average Nightly Rate
Facility Amenities
Boat Launch, Equipment Rentals Available, Free Parking, Maps & Brochures Available, Parking on Site, Public Restrooms, Rentals Available
General Information
Deposit Required, Family-friendly, Maps/Brochures/Guides
Group Amenities
Internet Connectivity
Free Wi-Fi
Near Interstate Highway
Payment Options
American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Boat Rental, Canoe / Kayak, Jet Ski , Pontoon, Ski Boat, Surfboard / Paddleboard, Tube, Water Skis / Wake Boards
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In-Room Coffee Maker
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1-Bedroom Units, 3+ Bedroom Units, Suites
Setting & Style
Mountain Setting
Suitable for Ages
All Ages


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Source: Huffington Post
quote: How about this, you keep fumbling around with your HDMI cables and SD cards, and I'll use wireless audio/video playback and true on demand storage options.
quote: Have a good time with your 2013 phone with 2005 "features." :p
quote: You want to see a loser, look at yourself. You spend your time in P&N, responding to Apple articles, and obviously are technically challenged.
quote: Not sure where you are seeing the irony. If you are alluding to "responding to Apple articles," I think I've commented on I think 3 article in my entire time as an Anandtech member.
quote: What I was basically saying is I don't post in articles very often.
quote: Because the userid I have been going back and forth with has been around for quite a while and constantly comments on any Apple article and 100% sides with Apple no matter what... And does is in a very condescending and douchy manor I might add.
quote: Great points, you've debunked most of the 'feature list'.


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CulinaryValais specialities
DetailsUnique views of the Matterhorn.
Après-ski & party in Steffis Kuhstall – not to be missed!
Altitude: 2,222 metres
Locality: Fiescheralp
Accessibility: Cable railway, mountain railway/ski lift, winter hiking trail, snowshoe trail, toboggan run, ski slope and ski tour
Built: 1968
Last renovations: 2011
No. of seats: Seating for over 100 people inside and on the terrace
No. of recliners: 20, with covers available
Service: Yes


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Top Definition
The act of quickly rolling at something, or out of somethings way. Derived from the Elites "Evade" Armor ability From Halo Reach.
We will Wargle Our way to Victory!
av Wardong Leader15 19 november 2010
Trending Now
Can you define these popular missing words?
A word spoken following an awkward comment or silence.
She said have you seen "Hatchet vs. Genitals" and he said "wargle"
av Steven Linden 22 februari 2008


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Top Definition
The art of bragging. To brag excessively in someone's face, admittedly.
Well, I don't mean to be bragadocious, but...
by LovedaNoie :) August 22, 2010
Trending Now
Can you define these popular missing words?
the act of extreme bragging
Mark was very bragadocious after he won his game 21-6.
by Alexander Onron October 08, 2011
to brag about something. Dane Cook used this word during a comedy sketch.
I did a hella job on that project, not to be bragadocious!That's so bragadocious of me.
by typenamehere July 22, 2006
What one's mother is when she is talking about one of her offspring---Particularly if that offspring has taken weird classes, such as map reading, or indian culture.
"Yeah, your mother was explaining the courses you took in middle school. She was quite bragadocious."
by devanshi February 10, 2005
An adjective describing something or someone that is bragging too much.
I don't mean to be bragadocious, but I am the fucking man.
by Sweet April 18, 2004


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quote RedemptionNo, not if you have a sound card with a standard line-out. A line out by itself it not amplified, so if your sound card has a true line out, you will need an external amp to get sound from it.But then woudn't your audio already have been preamplified by (possibly cheap) solid state components on the motherboard?
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Groundhogs and raccoons and deer, oh my! It's a jungle out there
March 10, 2013
Last weekend, I had the pleasure of visiting the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Yeah, I know, going to the zoo in the winter doesn't really seem like a fun time, but it was actually pretty special....
In the 50's, people could visit the Mecca Zoo. Maybe you could research and do a story on that one.
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(a) Every pipeline company shall pay a special license fee in addition to those now required by law. The amount of such fees shall be fixed by the Public Service Commission and levied by it upon each of such pipeline companies according to the number of three-inch equivalent pipeline miles included in its pipeline facilities and shall be apportioned among such pipeline companies upon the basis of the pipeline companies' reports submitted to the commission in such form as the commission may prescribe, so as to produce a revenue of not more than $385,000 per annum, which fees shall be paid on or before July 1 in each year.
(b) Such sums collected under subsection (a) of this section shall be paid into the State Treasury and kept as a special fund, designated the Public Service Commission Pipeline Safety Fund, to be appropriated as provided by law for the purpose of paying the salaries, compensation, costs and expenses of its employees to the extent of the employees' direct involvement in the enforcement of the provisions of this article. Any balance in said fund at the end of any fiscal year shall not revert to the Treasury, but shall remain in said fund and may be appropriated as provided in this subsection. All funds which heretofore were in the Public Service Commission Gas Pipeline Safety Fund shall be transferred to the Public Service Commission Pipeline Safety Fund.


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John Buxman
June 29, 1915-Feb. 11, 2013
Age: 97
Residence: Greeley
John Buxman, 97, died peacefully, and went to be home with his Lord & Savior, Feb. 11, 2013. He resided at Bonell Good Samaritan Nursing Home in Greeley with his wife of 70 years, Helene.
He was born in Grover, Colo., to Henry and Mary Steinmark Buxman, on June 29, 1915, the fifth of 11 children. He is survived by brothers, Harold and Harvey; and sister, Marion Kercher, all of Greeley. He was preceded in death by his parents, five brothers, and two sisters.
He married Helene M. Nagel on Nov. 25, 1942. He is survived by Helene; and their children, Joyce Johnson married to Dayton, Loveland, Colo., John R. and Patt (Grosholz), Eustis, Fla., Bob and Karla (Hultquist), Broomfield, Colo., and Dale and Jolene (Goscha) McPherson, Kan.
He is also survived by nine grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
A long time resident of Fort Morgan, where he farmed, worked at the sugar beet factory, beef plant, helped build the new high school and I-76, mobile home factory and retired from driving truck for Morgan County in 1980.
After retiring, John worked with horses at Red Feather, and in Fort Collins, before settling in Greeley. He worked on his brother, Harold's farm, when needed, and gardened both as a commercial and hobby grower until recent years.
John was well known for his strong testimony as a Christian, and his love of horses, farming, and his family.
Those who desire may view Mr. Buxman, from 9-10 a.m., Friday, at Bonell Good Samaritan Nursing Home, 622 23rd St, in Greeley. A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, at Sunset Memorial Gardens. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., Friday, at Bonell Good Samaritan.
Contributions may be made to Bonell Good Samaritan-Special Projects, in care of Bohlender Funeral Chapel, 121 W. Olive, Ft. Collins, CO, 80524. Please visit www.bohlenderfuneralchapel.com to send the family online condolences.
Judith R. Ericson
April 28, 1940-Feb. 10, 2013
Age: 72
Residence: Greeley
Judith R. Ericson, 72, of Greeley, passed away Feb. 10, 2013, at home with family.
Judi was born, raised and graduated from high school in Joliet, Ill. She attended Western Illinois University from 1958 through 1962, graduating with a B.S. in Education. She taught high school physical education for two years at O'Fallon Illinois High School, while also attending Southern Illinois University.
In September of 1964, she enlisted and was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the Army and soon began the Army training program at Brooke Army Medical Center to become a physical therapist. Upon graduation, she served one year on staff at Brooke. In June, 1966, she reported to Fort Leonard Wood. In April, 1967, she was one of the first ten Army physical therapists sent to South Vietnam, a fact of which she was very proud. Having obtained the rank of Captain, she developed and equipped the first physical therapy clinic at the 8th Field Hospital, Nha Trang. She also participated in several MEDCAP mission trips to Montagnard villages. She served in Vietnam until May, 1968, and considered this time to be the zenith of her service, being able to provide rehabilitation care to the wounded of several nationalities and persuasions. She returned to Ft. Sam Houston to complete the Army career course and was then posted to Fitzsimmons Army Hospital.
In December 1969, she resigned her commission and married Dr. Bryan Ericson, a Greeley oral surgeon.
Among her many memberships are the First Congregational Church of Greeley, PEO Chapter EZ, Delta Zeta sorority, Kappa Delta Pi honorary, Life membership in the American Legion and the Greeley Country Club.
She is survived by her husband, Dr. Bryan Ericson; son, Ty; daughter, Taryn; and granddaughters, Tonisha and Taylee.
She was preceded in death by her daughter, Trista; and by her parents.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 16, 2013, at the First Congregational Church, with a reception to follow at her home.
Memorial contributions can be made to https://give.psp.org/judiericsonwalk (Progressive Supranuclear Palsy) or the First Congregational Church in care of Allnutt Funeral Services, 702 13th St., Greeley, CO 80631. Friends may view the online obituary and send condolences at www.allnutt.com.
Celeste Fried
Nov. 7, 1921-Feb. 10, 2013
Age: 91
Residence: Greeley
Celeste Fried, 91, of Greeley, passed away Feb. 10, 2013, at the Hospice of Northern Colorado In-Patient Care Center. She was born Nov. 7, 1921, in the Bronx, N.Y., to Frank and Elizabeth Blavet, who had recently emigrated to the U.S. from Hungary.
On Jan. 30, 1951, she married Emery Fried in New York City. After moving to Elmont in Nassau County, Long Island in 1952, she remained there for the next 41 years before moving to Greeley, to be near her daughter. Mrs. Fried was raised in the Bronx, N.Y. After high school graduation, she attended the Packard Business School in New York City, where she met and remained friends throughout her life with a group of women who called themselves the Packardites. During her early years, she was employed in various civil service positions in Washington, D.C., and Fla., before returning to N.Y. For the majority of Mrs. Fried's career, she served as Executive Director of various senior centers on Long Island, where she was known for her innovative program development and services for older adults, as well as involvement in state and national legislation activities focusing on older adults. She served as President of the New York State Senior Center Directors Association and received many awards for her work.
Soon after arriving in Greeley, she used her planning and organizational talents once again to initiate and develop with other founding members the Greeley Retirees Academic Study Program (GRASP), which is currently sponsored by the Greeley Senior Activities Center. This group is member driven and studies subjects of interest to its membership. This spoke to her love of learning which was evident throughout her life. Among her other interests, she loved to read and play Scrabble, listen to classical music and attend symphony concerts, and see Broadway shows in N.Y., as well as travel throughout the world, especially with Elderhostel programs.
She is survived by her daughter, Juliet Fried, of Greeley; grandson, Nicholas Fried, of Astoria, N.Y.; sister, Gloria Sotsky, of Bayside, N.Y.; daughter-in-law, Carolyn Belman, of Amherst, N.H.; niece, Joy Geddes, of Oceanside, N.Y.; and nephew, Steven Sotsky, of Bayside, N.Y.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Emery Fried; son, Robert Fried; and her parents.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., Feb. 14, 2013, at The Bridge Assisted Living, 4750 W. 25th St., Greeley, CO, which was her home during the last year of her life.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Hospice of Northern Colorado, 2726 W. 11th St. Rd, Greeley, CO 80634, or by accessing their website at www.hpcnc.org.
Adamson Funeral and Cremation, 2000 W. 47th Ave., Greeley, is in charge of arrangements.
Alexa Ann Johnson
June 5, 1993-Feb. 10, 2013
Age: 19
Residence: Loveland
On Feb. 10, 2013, our precious Alexa Ann Johnson went home to our Lord, following a fatal single car accident. In Alexa's mere 19 years with us, she gave all the love she had to everyone she met. She was the first to forgive, lend a hand, or offer a kind word. She was our shining light. She taught us in ways of friendship, self-sacrifice and forgiveness.
She will remain ever vibrant in the hearts of her mother, Sharon Younie; her father, Tad Johnson; her loving step-parents, Jona Johnson and Denny Younie; her sister, Shelby; brother, Isaac; step-siblings, Kara Younie-Mckenna and Cory Younie; her nephew, Easton Hank; grandparents, Kent "Pa" Johnson, Charles "Teet" Busch, Sr., and Betty Busch Hauser; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and more friends than we could ever count.
Alexa was preceded in death by her grandmother, Bernadine Johnson; and her cousin, Nicholas D. Elliott.
The viewing will be held from 8:30-9:45 a.m., Friday, Feb. 15, 2013, at Crossroads Church, 5420 Taft Ave., Loveland. Service will begin at 10 a.m., with a reception to follow. Contributions may be made in Alexa's honor to The Alexa Ann Foundation, C/O Goes Funeral Care, 3665 Canal Dr., #E, Ft. Collins, CO 80524.
Condolences may be left at www.goesfuneralcare.com.
Elmer A. Kobobel
May 19, 1925-Feb. 11, 2013
Age: 87
Residence: Weldona, Colo.
Elmer A. Kobobel, 87, of Weldona, Colo., went to be with the Lord on Monday, Feb. 11, 2013, at Colorado Plains Medical Center in Fort Morgan. He was born on May 19, 1925, in Greeley, to Carl and Mary (Stricker) Kobobel.
Elmer grew up on the farm near Auburn School, where he also attended school. As a teenager, he farmed with his father. On June 30, 1945, he married Mariam Knaus in St. Francis, Kan. From 1945–1950, he worked as a mechanic for Garnsey Wheeler in Greeley. In 1950, after the death of his father, Elmer took over the Hoyt farm, which he farmed until 1976. He worked a few years renting farms, then purchased the Weldona farm in 1979. He "retired" in 2004, but continued helping his sons whenever needed. Elmer and Mariam enjoyed being snowbirds and for 17 years enjoyed the winter months in Mesa, Ariz. A man of faith, Elmer loved telling people about Jesus. He was a generous man and a man of his word.
He is survived by his wife, Miriam of Weldona; daughter, Peggy Tramp of Greeley; sons, Larry and Glen Kobobel both of Weldona; grandchildren, Parry Tramp and wife, Sara of Greeley; great-grandchildren, Eden, Annie and Everlee Tramp, all of Greeley; and sister, Clara Ulrich of Greeley.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Esther Clark, Venice Johns, Lillian Moffitt, Molly Stroh; and brothers, Bill, Carl, Edward, Fred, Harry, Harvey and Henry Kobobel.
Services will include viewing from 4-7 p.m., Friday, Feb. 15, 2013, at Adamson Chapel, funeral service 10 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 16, 2013, at Adamson Chapel and interment at Linn Grove Cemetery following the service.
Memorial contributions may be made to "Calvary Baptist Church" in care of Adamson Funeral Home, 2000 47th Ave., Greeley, CO 80634. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.adamsonchapels.com.
Leland J. Thomas
Dec. 23, 1917-Feb. 11, 2013
Age: 95
Residence: Akron, Colo.
Leland J. Thomas, 95, passed away Monday, Feb. 11, 2013, at the Washington County Nursing Home in Akron, Colo. He was born in Vernon, Colo., on Dec. 23, 1917, to John M. and Lillie C. (Morris) Thomas.
Leland's first job, which he started young to help his family, was mucking out barns for 50 cents a day. He later worked with the Civilian Conservation Corps, in various agricultural industries, and eventually, the Great Western Sugar factory from which he later retired.
He was married to Reva Irene Baker on April 20, 1939, in Colorado Springs, Colo. They went on to have four children, and as they lived many places, always made home where ever they were. Those who knew him would describe him as cheerful and kind, hard working, generous and penny-wise and always dedicated to his family. Leland could often be found working with horses and livestock, tinkering in his garage, or frequenting auctions and sales.
Leland is survived by his sons, Eugene, and Richard and his wife, Linda; daughter, Peggy; sisters, Helen and Beulah; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Reva; daughter, Eldora Jean and her husband, Frank; daughter-in-law, Linda; son-in-law, Jay; brothers, Harry, Ernest, Everett, Kelly, Robert, and Walter; sisters, Marie, Margarett, Hazel, Nellie, Norma, and Becky; and half-sisters, Kathleen, May, and Jenny.
Leland will be laid to rest at 2 p.m., Friday, Feb. 15, with a screwdriver, pliers, and a coil of bailing wire for his journey. The service will be held at Stoddard Funeral Home, with interment to follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens.
Please visit www.stoddardsunset.com to sign online guestbook.
Ronald "Ron" Eugene Utley
March 3, 1963-Feb. 10, 2013
Age: 49
Residence: Severence, Colo.
Ronald "Ron" Eugene Utley, 49, of Severance, Colo., passed away Feb. 10, 2013. He was born March 3, 1963, in Glendale, Calif., to Robert and Judith Utley. Ron attended elementary school in Denver, and then went to middle and high school in Ault, Colo., where he graduated. He moved to Greeley, in 1983, where he met Connie Craven, and they were married in 1989.
Ron worked as a diesel mechanic for Bestway Concrete Co. for 29 years. He recently was employed by Concord Rig Services in Greeley.
Ron was a family man who always put his family first. He was very handy and loved to tinker and fix things. He was an outdoorsman and an avid big game hunter, who loved to hunt elk, deer and turkeys. He also enjoyed camping.
He is survived by his wife, Connie Utley; father, Robert Utley of Briggsdale, Colo.; son, Tyler Utley of Severance, Colo.; daughter. Ashlee Utley of Severance, Colo.; brother, Bill (Theresa) Utley of Hermitage, Tenn.; sisters, Julie (Ed) Jordan of Briggsdale, Colo. and Jenny Endreson of Briggsdale, Colo.
Ron was preceded in death by his mother, Judith Utley in 1989.
A Celebration of Life gathering will be held from 12-3 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 16, 2013, at the Windsor Recreation Center, Windsor, Colo.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Rocky Mountain Cancer Center, 4715 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, CO 80303.
Mona Lisa Llamas
May 13, 1961–Feb. 7, 2013
Age: 51
Residence Greeley
Mona "Chona Bear" Llamas, 51, of Greeley, passed away Feb. 7, 2013, at North Colorado Medical Center.
She is survived by one daughter, four sons, six grandchildren, five sisters, and two brothers.
A visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m., with rosary beginning at 7 p.m., on Thursday, Feb. 14, 2013, at Adamson Chapel, 2000 47th Ave. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m., on Friday, Feb. 15, at St. Peter Catholic Church, 915 12th St.
Memorial donations may be made to the "Mona Llamas Memorial Fund" in care of Adamson's Funeral & Cremation, 2000 47th Ave., Greeley, CO 80634. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.adamsonchapels.com.
Joanne Lee Van Zante
June 29, 1931-Feb. 12, 2013
Age: 81
Residence: Greeley
Joanne Lee Van Zante, 81, of Greeley passed away on Feb. 12, 2013, in Loveland. She was born on June 29, 1931, in Falls City, Neb., to Dean and Lucille (Simon) Alexander.
Joanne married Jack Keenan in July 1949, and together they had one son, Keith. Joanne grew up in Neb., then moved to Greeley, in 1948, she graduated from Greeley Central High School and attended college for one year in Greeley. She worked at Noffsinger Manufacturing for 36 years. Joanne loved sewing, making quilts and raising dogs. She had a wonderful sense of humor.
Joanne is survived by her son, Keith Keenan of Drake; and brother, Roger (Judi) Alexander of LaSalle.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., on Friday, Feb. 15, 2013, at the Allnutt Macy Chapel in Greeley. Interment at Sunset Memorial Gardens.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimers Association in care of Allnutt Funeral Service.


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Layne Murdoch/NBAE/Getty Images
Last week was the first losing week of the season for the Thunder. Which not so coincidentally, makes it a lot less fun to talk about how players performed. Because, and you'll never believe this, there's a direct correlation between player performance and losses.
What surprised me most about the three straight losses is that I expected more panic. There was the regular amount of hand-wringing over Scott Brooks' decisions and such, but not a crazy amount of doomsday talk. At least not that I saw.
I think maybe the reason for it is the way the Thunder lost. In all three games, they played outstanding defense, but were unable to execute offensively and turned the ball over a little too much. Both things that are not only correctable, but in terms of offense, that hasn't been a worry with this team all season. What has been the concern is the defensive end, but the Thunder have played consistently well on that end for about three weeks. There have been lapses — like the first half against Indiana — but overall, Oklahoma City's defense has been better, which in an odd way despite the losses, is encouraging.
Because, as you know, defense is what you must rely on in the postseason. Big offense is nice, but that can come and go. Defense is something you have much more control over.
Plus, I think the Thunder built up a bit of equity within the fanbase with that run of wins over the Clippers, Heat, Lakers and Bulls. It was established that the team is very good when they're focused and ready. Of course losing the Western lead is upsetting, but there's time yet. And if the Thunder can finish out the season defending, they should be able to reclaim it.
Now to the rankings:
1. Kevin Durant (Last week: 2)
It really wasn't a standout week for anyone on the team, so almost by default, KD takes the top spot over again. (He did do this to Roy Hibbert, which is big bonus points.)
He was good against LeBron and Miami, but had nine turnovers. His game against Indiana was splendid, though in a losing effort. But that Pacer game showed that really, Durant could average 35 points a game (or more) if he truly wanted to. When you watch a Thunder game, it's obvious that Durant can get a quality look almost whenever he wants it. But he's an incredibly disciplined scorer that wants to score only efficiently. It truly seems like Durant could just pound 18-foot jumpers for an entire game if he wanted. Two hard dribbles, a crossover to run his man into a pick and then pull up. Sometimes he makes it look so incredibly simple.
It's obviously not and there are nights the jumper isn't falling like usual. But the focus it has to take to tell yourself to let go of points and key on assists and efficient scoring is impressive. But then again, it's KD. What do you expect?
2. Russell Westbrook (Last week: 1)
Westbrook endured his worst shooting stretch of the season last week hitting just 26-77 (33.7 percent) from the floor. You might assume he was settling for jumpers or just jacking 3s. Actually, that's not the case. Westbrook went 4-15 from 3, which isn't an inordinate amount of 3s. Westbrook actually struggled in the paint, going just 12-24 at the rim (a low number in both attempts and makes for him), while also struggling mightily from 3-9 feet hitting only 5-19 from that location.
What has become his sweet spot it seems is that 10-15 foot range jumper, but he only took six shots from that spot, missing all of them. (He was 6-15 from 16-23 feet.)
It's kind of ironic to think that Westbrook needs that jumper to be his normal effective self, but it's true. He's a terrific finisher and can get to the rim with relative ease, but he's such a dynamic scorer when he's hitting jumpers along with attacking the rim. I mentioned it in the recap Sunday, but I can't tell if it's a defensive strategy from teams, if Westbrook's just passing on that look or if it's something else.
3. Serge Ibaka (Last week: 3)
It's been a curious thing as to why Scott Brooks seems to sit Ibaka down in games where he's impacted the first three quarters. Against Indiana, Ibaka had seven blocks in 20 minutes. Against Miami, five in 24 minutes. In April, he's averaging 5.6 blocks a game in just 23.4 minutes per game. That's 8.6 per 36. 11.4 per 48. That's insane.
So why is Brooks sitting him? He was asked before Sunday's game about that. "With playing small, you only can play one big because Kevin is the other big depending on what type of center they throw on the floor. Like with [Roy] Hibbert, he gave us fits in the first half, but Perk did a good job of stopping him in the second half. That would have been a tough matchup for Serge. Serge is a great shot-blocker and a good help defender, but he's working on being a better low-post defender. It's one of the toughest decisions you have to make. The same thing with Thabo and James. It's a tough decision, because Serge was having a lot of blocks in that game. I felt we needed a mixture of scoring and a low-post defender because of Hibbert's ability to score at the block."
Is that a good enough explanation? I can accept it, but it still doesn't feel right. I see why he chose Perk to defend Hibbert instead of Ibaka, but there has to be a creative way to make sure Ibaka is able to properly impact a game regardless of matchups. I mean, we're talking about a crazy amount of blocked shots, plus Ibaka's excellent offensive rebound, plus his deadly mid-range jumper that's just sitting on the bench doing nothing.
Ibaka needs minutes. He needs more than 25 a game. He needs to be on the floor because he's the type of player that can impact a game. I understand there are times Nick Collison is a better low post defender on someone or the team is playing smallball, but Ibaka has just been too productive to sit right now.
4. Nick Collison (Last week: 6)
Did you know Collison had seven offensive rebounds against Toronto? And did you know he went 12-17 from the field last week? And did you know he did this? That putback dunk is obviously one of my favorite plays in NBA history.
5. James Harden (Last week: 4)
Harden went through easily the worst week of his season averaging only 11.2 points on 39 percent shooting between the Laker and Pacer games. He was essentially a non-factor off the Thunder bench, making only minor impressions on the game. He appeared to restore some of that swag though Sunday against the Raptors scoring 17 on 11 shots. Harden's extra scoring isn't just important in the final tally, but it relieves so much pressure off of Westbrook and Durant that the Thunder are incredibly more balanced with it. Harden spaces the floor, makes the offense more dynamic and versatile and takes OKC's offense to another level. I don't think it's a coincidence that the week Harden's offense dropped is the same week the Thunder's offense sank a bit.
6. Thabo Sefolosha (Last week: 5)
Thabo hasn't scored in double-figures since March 18. He's only hit nine 3s since his return. He's not scoring very much. So in other words, back to normal.
7. Kendrick Perkins (Last week: 7)
Perk has had three technical fouls rescinded this season and one changed to a flagrant. He's sitting on 11 for the season, two more putting him at a suspension. If those previous technicals hadn't been changed, Perk would've missed two games already with a suspension. But with only 10 games left, it looks like Perk is going to make good on his guarantee to get the techs under control when he needed to. Except he didn't. The league office just bailed him out.
8. Derek Fisher: (Last week: 8)
Derek Fisher made two 3s against Toronto. Two! He's acknowledged he's not shooting the ball well lately, which I think is the first step in shooting slump rehabilitation. So maybe he's putting the bad shooting behind him and will have it locked in for the postseason. Believing in unrealistic things is fun.
9. Daequan Cook (Last week: N/A)
With Cook back and evidently healthy, Scott Brooks now has his full 10-man rotation again. He was asked Sunday if he'd stick with a 10-man and he actually had to think about it for a second. He ended up saying yes, but that scared me. Because I fear Cook would be the player cut from it.
Brooks obviously has a thing for Fisher and a smallball lineup, which is fine, but that lineup is absolutely more effective with Cook. Brooks has cited rebounding as an issue for that group but both Cook and Thabo are quality rebounding guards, while Fisher isn't at all. The preferred situation is Cook goes back to his spot duty of 10-12 minutes of sharpshooting while also being available for extended stretches in a smallball lineup. Not Fisher, unless extreme circumstances warrant it.
10. Nazr Mohammed (Last week: 12)
Or maybe Mohammed's the one getting squeezed. Who knows.
11. Cole Aldrich (Last week: 9)
Two things I love about Cole Aldrich Garbage Time Fun: 1) Him trying to madly rebound every miss and block every shot and 2) his celebratory dunk that has become the Thunder's victory signal. My dream is for an NBA Finals game to end that way.
12. Royal Ivey (Last week: 10)
13. Lazar Hayward (Last week: 11)
They played a combined five minutes last week, all coming in the blowout over Toronto. And… we're done here.
Inactives: Eric Maynor, Reggie Jackson


text:
on February 1, 2013 - 1:00 AM
, updated February 1, 2013 at 6:53 AM
Britisher Roald Dahl was a great and prolific storyteller, particularly for children, in the 20th century. His fantasies, major ones such as "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" and "James and the Giant Peach" as well as many shorter tales of mischievous creatures, have both charmed and frightened generations of readers. Many a kid, after a Dahl story at bedtime, has checked the closet or looked under the bed for lurking Oompa-Loompas or maybe a Whangdoodle or a Hornswoggler. Doesn't hurt to look.
Dahl had an adventurous life, one that included a stint in the British Royal Air Force, achieving "ace" status as a pilot during WWII. He also worked in intelligence and other war effort agencies before launching his writing career for children and adults. The Dahl canon includes works for film, television (many collaborations with Alfred Hitchcock), plays, poetry and a lengthy list of fiction and nonfiction stories for all ages.
Still popular is the strange, some say macabre, "James and the Giant Peach," the 1961 Dahl chronicle of young James Henry Trotter, an orphan living with two of the meanest, slimiest caretakers in literature, the cackling Aunt Sponge and Aunt Spiker. James' parents, while shopping one day, were eaten by a savage rhino. And this was before we knew about the perils of venturing out on Black Friday.
One day, James meets a man who gives the boy a bag full of crocodile tongues. Not your average gift, but when James accidentally spills the contents, weird things begin. A fruitless tree in the yard produces a peach that grows to great size. When loosened, it crushes everything in its path – including Sponge and Spiker, to everyone's delight – and lurches out to sea. James is aboard with five anthropomorphic insect companions: a grasshopper, a ladybug, a centipede, a spider and an earthworm.
"James and the Giant Peach," Dahl's fantasy adapted for the stage by Richard R. George, reprised by Theatre of Youth Company and directed knowingly once more by Meg Quinn, begins in earnest here as the unusual passengers embark on a scary trans-Atlantic crossing, battling storms and sharks and strange shapes, a huge and hungry bat and seagulls that go from foes to lifesavers. A ditty or two momentarily brightens the voyage, but there is crisis after crisis, panic reigns and it looks bleak.
But James is inventive – Dahl never made him a genius, just resourceful – and the humanlike insects (good-natured, jealous, motherly, grandfatherly, braggarts, hopeful here, pessimistic there) marvel at their luck and are thankful for James, their hero.
The peach makes landfall, so to speak, impaling itself on the Empire State Building's peak. America! Whew! James is feted, grows straight and tall and the insects fare well: media darlings, endorsements. In the movie version, the centipede runs for mayor of New York. Now, that could happen.
This TOY remake is a wonder in many ways: magical sets by Kenneth Shaw, full of gears and levers, see-through scrims, sea creatures on walls, a jungle-gym, a swaying, enormous peach. Victorian costumes are eye-catching, the insects colorful and detailed. TOY's entire technical crew should take a well-deserved bow for its work – as should the agile cast.
Kurt Guba narrates and maintains the pace and takes a role here and there; Simon Blu Randle is a very likable James, clever, thoughtful, a peacekeeper. It's excellent work. The insects are Tilke Hill, Marc-Jon Filippone, Arin Lee Dandes, Adam Rath and Linda Stein, who also brings a new level of repulsiveness to Aunt Sponge.
It's a challenge to the cast and audience alike, this "James and the Giant Peach." But TOY has once again found the secret to combining the light and dark appeal that is the legacy of Dahl.
Three and one-half stars
What: "James and the Giant Peach"
When: Through Feb. 10
Where: Theatre of Youth at the Allendale Theatre, 203 Allen St.
Tickets: $24-$26
Info: : 884-4400, www.theatreofyouth.org