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The Secret Lives of Married Women

Author Elissa Wald on BDSM, sex scenes, and happy endings.

Forget Fifty Shades—at least until the movie comes out. Here's what you should do instead: Get to know Elissa Wald.
Her most recent book, The Secret Lives of Married Women (Hard Case Crime), concerns two women: identical twin sisters. One a sexually repressed defense attorney, the other a former softcore actress now living in suburbia. As one sister prepares for the trial of a blind man, his S&M-loving assistant and their various criminal entanglements, the other fends off stalkerish advances from a construction worker laboring on the house next door. Both sisters find themselves pushed to the edge and confronted by discoveries that shock and disturb them.
Elissa Wald is the author of Meeting the Master (Grove Press) and Holding Fire (Context Books). Her work has also been published in various journals and anthologies, including The Mammoth Book of Erotica, Nerve: Literate Smut, The Ex-Files: New Stories about Old Flames. Wald's also worked as a stripper, run away to join the circus and spent a summer working on a Native American reservation.
Wald talks to Playboy.com about BDSM, sex scenes and happy endings.
Playboy.com: I just finished reading your novel, The Secret Lives of Married Women. I liked it, and I was happy to discover your writing in general—I really enjoyed both stories you published on The Rumpus: "Real Men" and "Night Shifts." I'm looking forward to reading more of your work.
Wald: Thank you so much!
Playboy.com: Can you tell me a bit about how you started writing The Secret Lives of Married Women?
Wald: My husband and I bought a house several years ago, and there really was an overbearing worker next door whose attention made me very uncomfortable. Though I wasn't alarmed by him at first, my husband was, and I'd kind of laughed this off. Then by the time I no longer thought it was funny, I was hesitant to tell my husband how I felt because I didn't want to create this instant enmity between him and a person who was essentially—at least for the time being—our neighbor.
I think most writers have the experience of simultaneously being a participant and an observer in their own lives. On a personal level, this experience was wildly uncomfortable, and yet the writer in me was fascinated by the way the situation was creating an emotional wedge between my husband and me.
Though I spun the story into something much more drawn out and dramatic than anything that actually happened, the seed of it was there in real life.
Playboy.com: I don't really know anything about noir fiction. Is this something that's influenced your work? If the book reminded me of anything, it was Mary Gaitskill's Two Girls Fat and Thin. Are you a fan? Also, I wondered whether the first line of your novel, "Before that summer, the summer of fear," was an allusion to Chris Kraus' Summer of Hate.
Wald: I don't really know anything about noir fiction either! I've started to call myself The Accidental Noirist because I've never read any noir, nor did I set out to write it. Something that has fascinated me with the release of Secret Lives is that so many people have imagined all kinds of influences that simply weren't in the equation for me. I'm not familiar with Chris Kraus, for instance (though Summer of Hate sounds very intriguing), nor with James Cain, as was assumed by the writer who reviewed the book in The New York Times.
I must say that noir feels like a very natural fit for me, now that I've stumbled into it. I'm very drawn to the dark underside of society, to what we keep hidden and secret, to what lies beneath.
I do like Mary Gaitskill, though I don't think of her as an influence.
Playboy.com: Twins—are they the best foils? How did you think of making them more than mirror images with opposite personalities (à la Sweet Valley High's Elizabeth and Jessica)? I thought they were both complex, nuanced, and while they spoke of their twin link and of being each other's better halves, they were very much individuals to me.
Wald: Regarding the device of twins, I often think of a Latin phrase attributed to Aristotle: alter ipse amicus—a friend is another self. I actually have a new novella, not yet published, that I constructed around this phrase. Lately I've been fascinated by the idea of split selves and parallel lives. Twins lend themselves readily to this kind of exploration and I tried to take full advantage of that in Secret Lives.
Playboy.com: People are making a big deal about calling this book a sexy book. And it is, but there's really only the one money shot. Why are people making such a big thing of this? Is it the cover?
Wald: Something I regularly grapple with is the fact that BDSM often doesn't involve what we think of as sex. It doesn't even have to involve bodily contact. There are people whose erotic gratification comes from being whipped or polishing boots or serving as a maid. I believe that people think of me as a sexual person, and I think of myself that way as well, but the truth is that, while I enjoy sex, it's not the main event in my erotic life.
A smart friend of mine recently remarked that as a culture, we have a very narrow definition of sex. I think my writing tends to be intensely erotic without many graphic sex scenes and I always hope that this offers people a different way to think about sex and the BDSM spectrum.
Playboy.com: Let's talk about the cover. Can you tell me a bit about your choices and your collaboration with the artist who created it?
Wald: The cover is an interesting story. One very cool aspect of Hard Case Crime is that they commission an original painting for every cover and they have several different artists with whom they work regularly. The most popular and sought after is apparently Robert McGinnis. The publisher of Hard Case, Charles Ardai, told me that he's even had authors say things like, "I'll sign with Hard Case if you can guarantee me a McGinnis cover." But for whatever reason, the McGinnis aesthetic doesn't speak directly to me and my favorite Hard Case artist is Glen Orbik.
Ironically, for some reason, McGinnis was more readily available at that particular moment and would have been the more convenient choice for Charles, but I begged and pleaded for Orbik and luckily my wish was granted. This was as far as my own influence could go, however. The artist creates one painting and that's the one that gets used, because there's neither the time nor the finances for endless retakes.
It makes me happy every single day that Orbik created the cover that he did. I think it's a knockout. I'm wildly happy with it.
Playboy.com: I felt like the book's BDSM hotspot, Nutcracker Suite, was very civilized, almost cinematically so. It made me think of that movie Sleeping Beauty…although they're not the same types of erotic underground worlds. Maybe it's that very pristine, controlled aspect to it. I've never been in any S&M digs. Are they fancy? Seedy?
Wald: Some are fancy and some are seedy! Which I believe is as it should be, because of course people crave both.
Playboy.com: Tell me about the secretary reading a bodice ripper at the law firm. The Secret Lives of Married Women is no bodice ripper, but I thought that scene was a nod to a kind of freedom in reading genre fiction—reading for pleasure, not for posturing or education. What are your reading habits?
Elissa Wald: I think there's absolutely great writing in every genre, writing that simultaneously belongs within and transcends its genre. Stephen King, for instance, writes such vivid, visceral and richly imagined horror—usually within such an intensely familiar and true-to-life context—that he's more than just a horror writer. He's simply a very good writer, period. The same can be said of Scott Turow within the legal thriller genre. My most devout wish as a writer is to do something comparable within and beyond the genre of erotica.
And yes, that scene with the secretary and the bodice ripper was meant to assert the primacy we accord to pleasure, in our reading choices and in the rest of our lives. Regardless of what's supposedly good for us, what we're supposed to do or what we believe we should do, most of us will do what we most want to do.
My own reading habits are all over the map. I especially love short fiction, essays and formal poetry.
Playboy.com: While the book addresses women's power and lack of in such a variety of ways, from the power and powerlessness of motherhood, to being stalked, to being a willing submissive, to participating in (albeit soft-core) porn, to fighting porn for its dehumanizing qualities, it's also about marriages that work out well in the end, and these complex, often darker undercurrents are resolved in an almost Shakespearean-comedy happy ending lauding family life. What was the purpose of wrapping up those loose ends? Do you think even the most benign relationships harbor or mask a giant undertow of conflict and violent fantasies?
Wald: I do think that even the closest relationships have those dark undercurrents. At the end of Secret Lives, while I believe there's no doubt these marriages will endure, I also think there's been a certain loss of innocence all around, and that this is a necessary condition for intimacy to thrive. In each marriage, the husbands and wives have had to relinquish certain lofty notions about themselves and each other in order to go on. I think too that by the end of the book, there's a certain clarity about our essential aloneness, even within the context of a good marriage. In the final scene, the husband slips a blade back into his boot just before toasting family life. So I think that even as the ending does laud our cozy domestic arrangements, there's a certain irony and equivocation in the mix.
Hard Case Crime publishes hard-boiled crime fiction by Stephen King, Donald Westlake, James M. Cain, Michael Crichton, Mickey Spillane, Max Allan Collins and other greats. The Secret Lives of Married Women, by Elissa Wald is only $5.97 on Amazon.


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fork banger
This VR game has become sentient and is killing us one by one. But is it art?
Nightwatch Brigade Insignia: Awarded for hiding in a coat closet and watching God's Not Dead, God's Not Dead 2, and Last Man Standing on a 1980s-era portable tv every night instead of sleeping
If you think Hitler was good, you've got another thing coming.
By popular [?] demand, Casca is, unfortunately, back!
These tips are guaranteed to work. Nearly every time.
The Comedy Goldmine examines the funniest and most creative threads from the Something Awful Forums. Although the Comedy Goldmine has changed authors many times over the years, its focus on the Something Awful Forums is still the same. Includes hilarious Photoshops, amusing work stories, parodies, and other types of oddball humor.
Copyright ©2017 Rich "Lowtax" Kyanka & Something Awful LLC.

subset: commoncrawl


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Hazardous road conditions on I-65 in White County
Drivers should be aware of potentially hazardous conditions on I-65; specifically in White County from the 185 mile marker to the 200 mile marker. I-65 throughout this area is experiencing numerous slide-offs, spin outs, jack knifes and crashes.
Semi's and four wheel drive vehicles are not exempt from these crashes; just because you have a large/heavy vehicle or four wheel drive capability does not keep you from being involved in the above events.
Throughout the early morning hours new snow has fallen, add wind and sub zero temperatures this has made icing/black ice on a large portion of the roadways, bridges, and ramps.
INDOT crews have been spreading salt, abrasives etc. throughout this time; but with these conditions this has become extremely challenging to keep up with this weather event.
Motorists/Semi drivers are asked to PLEASE rethink your trip, staying off the interstate entirely is the safest option. Use alternate routes.
If you MUST drive today ADJUST your speed for conditions!! Slow down, give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination and be diligent to conditions of the roads. EXPECT LONG DELAYS.
Remember to move over and slow down when you see emergency lights and give INDOT plow trucks room to work.
For up-to-date road and weather information, citizens are encouraged to tune to local television and/or radio stations. Another source of information is the National Weather Service; this link http://www.crh.noaa.gov/ind/ will take visitors directly to the current Indiana weather information. Citizens may also contact the Indiana Department of Transportation Road and Weather line at (800) 261-7623 or visit the Indiana Department of Transportation website at www.trafficwise.in.gov.


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Log In to abcteach
Free Account (Settings)
Explains flip, turn, and slide, and then has a worksheet for students to identify which transformation has occurred.
All 20 of our shape posters in one easy download: quadrilaterals (square, rectangle, rhombus, parallelogram), triangles (equilateral, isoceles, scalene, right, obtuse, acute), curved shapes (circle, oval, crescent), other polygons (pentagon, hexagon, octagon); one per page, each with a picture and a definition. Common Core: Geometry K.3.1, 1.G.1 2.G.1, 3.G.1


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— Photo by Bonnie Belec/The Telegram
More than 50,000 people are living with diabetes in Newfoundland and Labrador and it isn't slowing down, a gathering was told Monday morning.
According to statistics provided by the Canadian Diabetes Association Newfoundland and Labrador, another 88,500 are living with symptoms which may eventually lead to the onset of Type 2 diabetes. Research has shown about 50 per cent of those will eventually be diagnosed with diabetes.
"The concern is the fact that it is increasing despite all of our efforts and has almost reached an epidemic level," said Dr. Pradip Joshi, clinical chief of the medicine program at Eastern Health.
"We really need better strategies to deal with it," he said.
Joshi said one part of that plan is the Diabetes Charter for Canada which was unveiled across the country Monday including an event in St. John's.
The idea is to empower Canadians with diabetes and their caregivers, while also providing governments with a standard of care to ensure there is comparable support for people living with diabetes across the country.
"In Newfoundland, because we have such a high rate of obesity and diabetes we really need to make a concerted effort to get it under control," said Joshi.
"The charter will be an important aspect of that. It's a partnership. If we can get everyone together it will certainly make an impact on it and the complications associated with diabetes," he said.
Statistical information from the association says the costs associated with those complications will be more than $280 million this year and projected to reach $335 million in 10 years if the disease isn't managed.
"One of the biggest concerns if you have diabetes is risk of cardiovascular disease goes up tremendously," said Joshi.
"About 70 per cent of patients die from cardiovascular. That is a huge burden for people and the state so I hope the charter will focus on that and help us to mobilize groups to help improve it," he said.
Of the 57,600 people diagnosed in the province, only 2,741 are Type 1 — when a person is insulin-dependent because the pancreas isn't producing enough or none at all.
People with Type 2 are not insulin dependent and sometimes the disease can be controlled with lifestyle changes.
However, some people do receive medication to treat their symptoms if they can't manage it through exercise and diet.
"We talk about both, Type 1 and Type 2, but in Newfoundland it's mostly Type 2 which is very high, though we do have some increase in Type 1, the majority are middle-aged patients with Type 2," said Joshi.
"But over the last 10 years we've been seeing a lot of younger patients with Type 2, patients in their 20s, and 30s, and that has to do with inactivity, obesity and all kinds of other issues," he said.
Carol Ann Smith, the association's regional director for the province, said the charter gets people talking about it, the stigma associated with it and an awareness that people aren't alone.
"It provides a shared voice and a common vision for people living with diabetes in Canada," she said.
A year in the making, Smith said the charter outlines the rights and responsibilities for those living with the disease, as well as the responsibilities of governments who are part of the fight to treat it and help get it under control.
According to a news release, health and patient charters exist in about two dozen countries, including Canada. They describe the rights and responsibilities of a specific population and serve to drive improvements in programs and the delivery of health services.
To sign the charter, go to mydiabetescharter.ca.


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A Taste of Lake Conroe Luxury
La Torretta Lake Resort & Spa • Montgomery, TX
Escape Kit
- A One-Night Stay for Up to Four People in a Double Golf Cottage Room, Sundays through Thursdays ($99) or Fridays and Saturdays ($129)
- Or, a One-Night Stay for Up to Four People in a King or Two Double Bed Suites, Sundays through Thursdays ($149) or Friday and Saturdays ($179)
- 20% Discount on Spa Services and Golf Greens Fees
- Combine Unlimited Vouchers for an Extended Stay
The Destination
Scenic shores and majestic surrounding woodlands make the 22,000-acre Lake Conroe in Montgomery, Texas, hard to resist—in fact, the waterfront haven near the greater Houston area has lured its fair share of celebrities, from professional athletes to singers, to take up residence on its blissful banks. Golf and tennis outfits make this destination ideal for both recreation and relaxation.
The Digs
Commensurate with the lake's reputation for style, the AAA Four Diamond La Torretta Lake Resort & Spa is on par when it comes to high-class amenities. Plush accommodations feature pillow-top mattresses fitted with luxury linens, flat-screen HDTVs, and private bathrooms with with luxurious amenities. At dusk, your private balcony is the perfect place to watch a Lake Conroe sunset.
The Diversions
• On-site spa services at The Spa at La Torretta
• On-site Aqua Park
• 18-hole, par-71 golf course
"From the luxurious accommodations... to the wonderful water park [and] the welcoming staff, this resort is one to add to your weekend getaway list! Right on the water, La Torretta is at once romantic and family-friendly."-- Citysearch
"Great resort and spa."-- LivingSocial Member
escapes 30-day promise
LivingSocial gives you up to 30 days to return your unused voucher for a full refund. Once you've made a reservation, you are subject to the merchant's cancellation and refund policy. If you want to secure your preferred dates of travel, we strongly recommend that you complete reservation with the merchant within 30 days of your purchase—after that, LivingSocial will not issue any refunds.
the fine print
- Vouchers may be combined to extend stay
- Only valid for stays until December 30, 2013
- Reservations required and subject to availability
- Not valid toward existing or room block reservations
- Merchant cancellation/rescheduling policy and fees apply once booking is made; voucher subject to forfeiture
- Voucher valid for up to 4 guests
- Nights must be spent consecutively; all inclusions must be redeemed during one stay
- Taxes and $20 resort fee not included; payable directly to the property
- Credit card information and photo ID is required at check-in; must be 21 or over to check in
- Blackout date(s): August 29-September 2
- Other conditions apply • PAID AND PROMOTIONAL VALUES EXPIRES ON December 30, 2013 • PAID VALUE DOES NOT EXPIRE • PAID VALUE EXPIRES ON December 30, 2018 • PROMOTIONAL VALUE EXPIRES ON December 30, 2013 • Enjoy By December 30, 2013
Other conditions apply
Except where noted in the fine print:
• Cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion
• Tax and gratuity are not included
• Merchant is responsible for the quality of the products or services provided to you at redemption
• LivingSocial Terms and Conditions - https://www.livingsocial.com/terms
Original Price:
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Generation & Markets
GE and Toshiba signed a memorandum of understanding to form a global strategic alliance, under which the two companies would jointly develop select combined-cycle power generation projects around the world. The companies will explore the formation of a strategic joint venture to develop next-generation combined-cycle power projects with higher thermal efficiency.
Alberta Newsprint Co. (ANC) contracted Caterpillar to develop a turnkey power plant using 10 Cat G16CM34 natural gas generator sets, at a facility in Whitecourt, Alberta, Canada. The 65-MW facility will use Caterpillar's medium-speed, reciprocating engine generator sets, making it Caterpillar's largest power plant installation in Canada.
Duke Energy's Buck and Riverbend steam stations, coal-fired power plants in the Charlotte area, will retire two years earlier than scheduled, drawing to a close more than eight decades of operations at each facility. Both stations had been slated for retirement in April 2015 in advance of upcoming federal environmental regulations; however, the company elected to retire Buck Units 5 and 6 and Riverbend Units 4 through 7 on April 1, 2013.
Constellation completed an aggregate 5.7-MW (DC) solar generation project for Portland General Electric (PGE) in Lake County, Ore. Constellation financed the system, and owns and operates it, selling output to PGE at a fixed rate under a 25-year agreement. The system comprises more than 20,000 ground-mounted photovoltaic (PV) panels. The project is expected to generate approximately 10 million kWh of electricity per year.
GE will install WindControl advanced software to help maximize energy output at two First Wind projects in Maine. The two wind farms are located in Rollins and Stetson. The Rollins site has 40 GE 1.5-77 turbines while Stetson contains 55 turbines. The WindControl software automatically controls the output of each turbine, versus an approach that depends on starting and stopping units to match changes in power demand.
EDF Renewable Energy , formerly enXco, started operations at the 150-MW Bobcat Bluff wind project in Archer County, 20 miles south of Wichita Falls, Texas. The project, consisting of 100 GE 1.5-MW turbines, spans about 12,500 contiguous acres. EDF Renewable Services will operate and maintain the facility, while EDF Trading provides energy management services and acts as the qualified scheduling entity. EDF Renewable Energy acquired the project in March 2012 and began construction in April.
Pattern Energy's Ocotillo wind project in Southern California's Imperial Valley began commercial operation, transmitting energy to the Sunrise Powerlink, a newly constructed 117-mile, 500-kV transmission line connecting San Diego and the Imperial Valley. The 265-MW Ocotillo project has 94 turbines now operational. An additional 18 turbines are expected to be installed in the spring of 2013. San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) will buy the output under a 20-year agreement.
Siemens was awarded a long-term service program contract extension for the Phu My 3 combined-cycle power plant. The facility is a build-operate-transfer financed 740-MW power plant located in Ba Ria, Vung Tau Province, Vietnam. Siemens will provide comprehensive maintenance services for the plant's two SGT5-4000F turbines, one SST5-5000 steam turbine, and three generators.
Sempra U.S. Gas & Power completed construction of Mesquite Solar 1,


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Travel & Venue
Island Hotel Newport Beach
690 Newport Center Drive
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Website: www.islandhotel.com
Room Rate: $225 tax per night
Attire: Business Casual
The Women Advisors Forum room block rate is currently sold out at the Island hotel, but have additional available rooms starting at $375 tax per night.
Please note other nearby options:
Hyatt Regency Newport Beach
Distance from Hyatt to Island Hotel: 1.3 miles
Website: www.newportbeach.hyatt.com
1107 Jamboree Road
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Tel: 949-729-1234
Room Rate: starting at $199 tax per night
Newport Beach Marriott Bayview
Distance from Marriott to Island Hotel: 2.7 miles
Website: www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/npbst-newport-beach-marriott-bayview/
500 Bayview Circle
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Tel: 949-854-4500
Room Rate: starting at $229 tax per night
SourceMedia has secured a block of rooms at the Island Hotel Newport Beach exclusive to the attendees of Women Advisors Forum. Please make your reservation by October 24, 2012. Rooms will be available on a first come first served basis there's no guarantee that rooms will be available after the cut off date.
To Reserve your room, please call 888-321-4752 and refer to the "Women Advisors Forum" room block.
About the Hotel
With 64 fabulous Executive Suites, 19 over-the-moon Luxury Suites and nearly 300 perfectly appointed Guest Rooms from which to choose, you may find the Island Hotel's accommodations a somewhat distracting dilemma. Once you've made your selection, however, all that needs doing is to let the luxury begin.
From an abundance of 100% cotton oversized bath towels in our marble bathrooms to our uniquely designed mattresses with luxurious linens and goose down duvets, your every home-away-from-home need is happily met. Step-out balconies and/or furnished patios are featured in each and every one of our rooms to ensure a true Southern California experience, complete with ocean-fresh breezes and the option of Newport Harbor and Pacific Ocean views.
One look at the year-round summertime surroundings at Island Hotel and you know instantly you're in the middle of something big when it comes to entertainment. Newport Beach boasts one of the world's broadest collections of activities, from surfing and beachcombing to shopping, gallery browsing and theatre events.
A day on the greens or in the blue.
Of course, it wouldn't be a complete Southern California experience without a round (or two or three) of championship golf on one of the nation's most picturesque courses. Neighboring Pelican Hill Golf Course is situated on nearly 400 acres of undulating greens with awe-inspiring views of the Pacific Ocean. Designed by renowned course architect Tom Fazio, Pelican Hill's 36 holes of challenging play offers a pure slice of paradise.
View Larger Map


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Units of Study
CHNS4011 - Chinese Honours A
Semester 1, 2014 | Credit Points: 12
Coordinator: Esther Klein
The Honours program in Chinese Studies consists of:
1. a long thesis written in English (18000 - 20000 words) and two seminars. The thesis is worth 60% of the final Honours result and the seminars 40% (each seminar 20%) or
2. a short thesis in English (12000 - 15000 words) and three seminars. The thesis is worth 40% of the final Honours result and the seminars 60% (each seminar 20%).
The following seminars are on offer in 2014:
Semester 1: Theory and Method in Asian Studies (Dr Olivier Ansart)
Semester 2: Engaging Asia (Dr Rebecca Suter) In consultation with the supervisor and with the approval of the Chair of the Department, students can also select seminars from other programs in the Faculty of Arts. The Department also offers joint Honours supervision with other programs.
For more information, contact Dr Wei Wang
a thesis of 18000-20000 words and two seminars or a thesis of 12000 - 15000 words and three seminars
Two or three seminars, each meets weekly for two hours for one semester
Credit average or better in 48 senior credit points of Chinese Studies, including completion of the major. ASNS3690, Approaches to Research in Asian Studies is strongly recommended and may be counted towards the required 48 senior credit points by all students except those whose qualifying senior credit points include (CHNS2601 or CHNS2101) and/or (CHNS2602 or CHNS2102). Intending Honours students are advised to take as many senior credit points as possible in Chinese language and China-related subjects.
A timetable is not available for this session.
Please refer to the list of Units of Study on the left-hand menu to view the units on offer for the relevant academic year.
The information displayed above is indicative only as online information is subject to change without notice. The Faculty Handbook and the University of Sydney Calendar are the official legal source of information relating to study at the University of Sydney


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Lucky he was able to walk off. Be horrific if they have another Theisman situation with him.
Lucky he was able to walk off. Be horrific if they have another Theisman situation with him.
That was a classic acl tear. I don't like him but I hope for his sake its not that. Sure looked like it tho
I hope he's ok. Hate the Redskins, but I really like RG3 and I don't want to see him hurt.
That's the risk you take. Can get away with that stuff in College but not so much in the NFL. He could be one and done.
RG3 doesnt look like he'll hold up for long. Its his rookie year and he's looks battered/beaten already. That leg injury is extremely concerning for the Redskins and their fanbase...
How smart do the Skins look for taking Cousins now.
I think Griffin has the talent to be a very good QB in this league regardless of his ability to run the pistol.
Those scrambling run option quarterbacks are susceptible to this type of punishment. Eventually he'll lose his ability to run around like a nut and become a pocket passer. He'll be successful in that respect but it will take away some of the unpredictability. I like the kid and I hope it isn't an acl tear.
RGIII takes way too many hits.. might have a short career at this rate.
I was thinking in the same thing. I hope the guy didn't tear anything, but I do think if they continue to use the option heavily, they will definitely run the guy into the ground.
Last edited by nycisgreat; 01-06-2013 at 08:06 PM.
Lets go, Giants!


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Seibertron.com - The Ultimate Transformers Fansite
Shadowman wrote:I will put forth the theory that it was the internet itself trying to punch him in the face.
MightyMagnus78 wrote:Watch a lot of American Chopper, Whale Wars, Gold Rush, River Monsters, Time Team, Wheeler Dealers and really liking Finding Bigfoot at the moment to.
Mkall wrote:I'm currently a fan of Mythbusters and Sons of Guns. Both are educational and feature regular explosions.
Wigglez wrote:Don't bots usually make threads. I didn't know they responded too. THEY'RE ADVANCING!!
Cobotron wrote:I'm drunk as **** right now!
Burn wrote:Wigglez wrote:Don't bots usually make threads. I didn't know they responded too. THEY'RE ADVANCING!!
Technically you're commenting about them and sending the topic off-topic.
Frankly though, this has proved to be a very interesting thread for trapping them.
Registered users: Bing [Bot], Black Hat, Exabot [Bot], ExciKaiser, GalvatronG1, Google [Bot], Google Adsense [Bot], Ig89ninja, JelZe GoldRabbit, Kurona, LeAwesome1, Nexus Knight, Qwan, ScottyP, Sigma Magnus, SillyMcGilly, steals_your_goats, SW's SilverHammer, Yahoo [Bot]


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The Scandinavian brand Vila offers a chic collection of feminine and elegant clothing. The romantic style is reflected in its dresses, jackets and blouses for a modern look.
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Under a Palm on the Tropical Caribbean
Exuma Palms Hotel • Great Exuma, Bahamas
Escape Kit
- A Four-Night ($389), Five-Night ($479), Six-Night ($549), or Seven-Night ($629) Stay for Two in an Oceanfront Room
- $100 Food-and-Beverage Credit
- One Dinner for Two
- Two Welcome Cocktails per Guest
- Round-Trip Airport Transfers
The Destination
The Exumas: The string of Bahamian islands (some uninhabited) that boast secluded beaches and tranquil aquamarine cays, miles away from the bustling resorts and cruise ships of Nassau. "The water here is some of the prettiest in the world, and comes in every shade of blue and green (you'll grow tired trying to name the exact color); beaches are dazzling white," says Fodor's. "Combine that with fresh seafood and friendly locals and you have yourself one of the best vacation destinations in the Bahamas."
The Digs
Located on the 37-mile-long Great Exuma, the Exuma Palms Hotel has prime real estate on Three Sisters Beach and handles round-trip transportation from the airport. Look out over the turquoise water from your balcony or patio in a room that also features amenities like A/C and a ceiling fan, a flat-screen TV with cable, a microwave, a mini fridge, and a coffee machine.
In the morning, find an authentic Bahamian breakfast of grits and sheep's tongue souse or more American fare like pancakes and poached eggs at the hotel's restaurant. And return later for lunch (Escapees each have an included entrée and drink) to indulge in roasted snapper, conch linguini, or a grilled grouper sandwich.
Between meals, head to Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park—the first land-and-sea preserve in the world (established in 1959) and a mecca for snorkelers and scuba divers. Or, do as so many others do and get on a boat.
"The location and service are top-notch. The view of Three Sisters Beach is simply breathtaking and makes you realize why you came to Exuma—for the pure and stunning beauty."-- TripAdvisor
escapes 30-day promise
LivingSocial gives you up to 30 days to return your unused voucher for a full refund. Once you've made a reservation, you are subject to the merchant's cancellation and refund policy. If you want to secure your preferred dates of travel, we strongly recommend that you complete reservation with the merchant within 30 days of your purchase—after that, LivingSocial will not issue any refunds.
the fine print
- Limit 1 voucher per reservation; vouchers cannot be combined to extend stay
- Only valid for stays between now and December 15, 2013
- Reservations required and subject to availability
- Not valid toward existing or room block reservations
- Merchant cancellation/rescheduling policy of 48 hours and fees apply once booking is made; voucher subject to forfeiture
- Voucher valid for 2 guests; up to 2 additional guests may be added based on availability and at an additional cost of $20 per person per night if 12 and older
- Oceanfront rooms have 2 queen beds
- Taxes of 10% and resort fee are not included; payable directly to the property
- Nights must be spent consecutively; all inclusions must be redeemed during one stay
- Other conditions apply • PAID AND PROMOTIONAL VALUES EXPIRES ON December 15, 2013 • PAID VALUE DOES NOT EXPIRE • PAID VALUE EXPIRES ON December 15, 2018 • PROMOTIONAL VALUE EXPIRES ON December 15, 2013 • Enjoy By December 15, 2013
Other conditions apply
Except where noted in the fine print:
• Cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion
• Tax and gratuity are not included
• Merchant is responsible for the quality of the products or services provided to you at redemption
• LivingSocial Terms and Conditions - https://www.livingsocial.com/terms
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text:
It's Shopping Saturday! Our ever-popular freebie free-for-all goes coupon crazy so you can save at the mall. Our list is packed with retail coupons, freebies, dining deals and fun things to do. Use it to save all weekend long!
"Like" our Sentinel Deals page on Facebook; follow Doreen Christensen on Twitter@PrettyGoodIdeas and sign up for Deals text alerts.
Coupons and retail deals
$5 off $25 purchase at Old Navy; expires May 219
$10 off $50 purchase at Old Navy; exipres May 9
$25 off $100 purchase at Macy's; expires May 19
40 percent off one item at Joann Fabric; expires May 18
20 percent off at Stein Mart; expires May 19
20 percent off at Sports Authority; expires May 18
$25 off $100 purchase at Chico's; expires May 20
Free canvas gloves with $20 purchase at Ace Hardware; through Facebook; expires May 31
$15 of $30 purchase at The Limited; exires May 22
Free power up 4-in-1 with $25 Graduation Gift purchase at Things Remembers; expires May 19
Free $10 gift card with $40 purchase at Toys R Us; expires May 18
25 percent off Aeropostale; expires May 19
$25 off $75 at Lane Bryant; expires May 22
Publix launches new Coupon Saver Tool matching sales to coupons
Sign up and save with mobile coupons from Macy's, Target, Bed, Bath & Bedyond and more
Container Store in Boca Raton looking for "super fan" for VIP treatment
$5 off at Home Depot via email
20 percent off one item at Office Depot; expires May 18
20 percent off at Ulta Beauty; expires June 1
$10 off with $30 purchase at Radio Shack; expires June 1
25 percent off entire purchase at Michaels; (print or text to phone)
$5 off oil change at Jiffy Lube; expires January 2014
Free 60-day membership at BJ's Wholesale Club; expires July 14
$5 off $50 purchase from Home Depot with email signup
$5 off at SuperCuts with mobile offer
Couponing 101: How I save $450 on my grocery bill
Couponing 101: How to do a "moneymaker"
Target grocery coupons (accepted at many Publix Markets)
Grocery coupons from Coupons.com
Grocery coupons from SmartSource.com
Whole Foods Market coupons (accepted at many Publix Markets)
Staples coupons (print or show on your smartphone)
Save 30 percent at Miami Seaquarium for Miami Heat fans
Free bottle of MiO Fit Water Enhancer ($2.99 value); through Facebook
Free $25 blowout with purchase of another at SoBlo Blowdry Salon; expires May 31
Publix launches new Coupon Saver Tool matching sales to coupons
$10 off at Buca di Beppo; expires May 27
Free sample of Flora by Gucci fragrance; through Facebook
Free large side with purchase of family meal at Boston Market; expires May 20
10 percent with new Staples teacher rewards program
Free samples of L'Oreal Advanced Haircare
Retail news: Town Center at Boca Raton hires "style setter"
Free mini Matrix Biolage shampoo and conditioner with service at JC Penney Salon
Win $10,000 and other prizes with 50 billionth Apple App download
Retail news: H&M opening store in Pembroke Pines
Coupon: $1 McDonald's Egg White Delight; expires June 20
Free "Iron Man 3" tickets with pizza purchase
Free Publix Shopping Spree book with $40 in coupons
Free ticket with purchase of another to see "The Big Wedding"
Barbie The Dreamhouse Experience opens at Sawgrass Mills
Free haircuts for unemployed workers at Salon 44 in Lauderhill; expires Juy 31
Free entree at Pei Wei with gift card purchase; expires May 26
Get Shop-O-Matic deals and bargains sent right to your inbox and phone
Free and reduced-priced prescriptions at South Florida pharmacies
Free samples from P&G Everyday; expires June 1
Free Smartphone with 2-year agreement from CVS/Pharmacy
Save 15 cents a gallon on gas from Walmart
Free Stuffed Pizza Rollers from Pizza Hut with email sign-up
Free 60-day membership at BJ's Wholesale Club; expires July 14
Free health tests and AARP membership from Walgreens; expires June 30
Free "Betty Crocker Best of Spring" recipe book
Digital coupons now online in Publix stores
Free health screenings at Sam's Club on Saturdays each month
Free 25 4X6 photos from Walmart Photo Center
Free samples and high-value coupons from VocalPoint.com
Free appetizer valued at $8 with free app download from T.G.I. Friday's
Trade unused gift cards for credit at CVS/Pharmacy
Free Physicians Formula cosmetics with rebates valued at up to $25
Free Blizzard treat from Dairy Queen with Fan Cub signup
Free lens cloth and cleaner from Walmart Vision Center
Free beauty gifts on your birthday
Free $129 annual pass for Florida teachers at Legoland Florida; expires Dec. 31
Free month of Redbox Instant Streaming Video ($8 value)
Free bowling valued at up to $6 from Musselman's; expires Aug. 31
Dining Deals
Buca di Beppo: $10 off $20 purchase; expires May 27
Outback Steakhouse: $8 off two entrees; expires Tuesday
Krispy Kreme: Free Key Lime doughnut with Foursquare check-in on Wednesday
Burger King: 75 cent small Frozen Coke or Frozen Cherry
Pei Wei: Free Pei Wei Combo with purchase of $30 gift card; expires May 26.
Dunkin Donuts: $1 off any breakfast sandwich.
Brio Tuscan Grille: $10 of two lunch entrees or $15 off two dinners; expires May 31; not valid Sunday
Boston Market: Free small size with purchase of a family meal; expires May 20
Dunkin Donuts: $1 off dozen and $1 off breakfast sandwich (mobile coupons)
IHOP: Three free meals valued at $7.99 each with e-club sign-up.
Pizza Hut Free Stuffed Pizza Rollers from with email sign up
Hooters $6.99 for 10 wings and fries at on Wednesdays
IKEA Free eats on Mondays and Tuesday
Pizza Hut Free Stuffed Pizza Rollers
Things to do
50 percent off South Florida theater tickets from CulturalConnection.org
Free Build and Grow Kids Clinic at Lowe's at 10 a.m. Saturday
Free workshops at The Home Depot on Saturdays and Sundays
Free guitar classes on Saturdays at Guitar Centers
Free Technique Cooking Classes at Williams-Sonoma in April


text:
All-You-Can-Eat Hot Wings + Sauce Demo + Beer Tasting + Ginger Ale Cocktail + Football
Washington, DC
Use between Tuesday, October 16 – Monday, December 17
What you get
- 2-Hour Exclusive Access of the Basement Bar at Smoke & Barrel
- All-You-Can-Eat Wings (Chicken and Vegan Options)
- Sauce-Making Demo
- 3-Flight Beer Tasting
- 1 Pint of Favorite Beer from the Tasting
- 1 Whiskey and Housemade Ginger Ale Cocktail
- Adventures Staff to Guide You
Now that we're in week six of everyone's favorite season (football, duh) things are starting to heat up. With this Adventure, you can take your viewing parties up a notch with all-you-can-eat hot wings (vegan options also available), a sauce demo, beer tasting, an exclusive whiskey and housemade ginger ale cocktail, and an afternoon of football at the basement bar of Smoke and Barrel.
We'll gather at Smoke and Barrel's storefront in Adams Morgan where our Adventure guides will escort us to an eating station and whet our palates with hot wings, which will be available for the eating throughout the Adventure. Next, the restaurant's chef will treat us to a demo on how to prepare barbecue sauces—from ingredient lists to a tutorial on emulsifying, we'll come out of the experience trained in the fine art of smearing meats with delicious sauce toppings.
Even better, through our private bartender and server staff, we'll get the lowdown on three choice beer samples, from which we can choose a full pint while we catch a number of football games on Barrel's five flat screen televisions. If that's not enough to get you into overtime, we'll also receive an exclusive, housemade whiskey and ginger ale cocktail to sip on while we root for our favorite team to take us to victory!
Fine printOne voucher is good for one person • Must be 21+ to attend this event; valid ID required • Event is rain or shine • Cost of parking not included • A refund may be collected within 24 hours of your purchase. You may not reschedule your purchased event date or time for any reason. You may transfer your purchase to anyone over the age of 21 (unless noted otherwise) for any reason prior to your event date by visiting your Event Details Page found under 'My Vouchers.' No full or partial refunds are given to customers who miss an event. Purchasers will be notified prior to cancelled or rescheduled Adventures. Cancelled Adventures will be fully refunded. If you can't make the new date of a rescheduled Adventure, you are entitled to a refund upon request • Adventure waivers available to view here: www.livingsocialadventures.com/images/uploads/Cooking_Class_-_Indoor.pdf
Other conditions apply
Except where noted in the fine print:
• Cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion
• Tax and gratuity are not included
• Merchant is responsible for the quality of the products or services provided to you at redemption
• LivingSocial Terms and Conditions - https://m.livingsocial.com/terms
Hot Wings Eating + Beer Tasting + Football
times for
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text: Keep your handbag organized and your technology protected with Alexander McQueen's grained leather iPad and phone cases, cardholders and pouches. An easy way to put the tough, British label's stamp on any outfit, these statement accessories are sure to gain you extra kudos when given as a gift to stylish friends or loved ones. Show off the brand's signature skull motif when you reach for your cards at dinner, flashing a metallic cosmetics case when you're touching up your make-up mid-flight or between meetings, when your technology needs to travel with you, across the city.


text:
We offer a variety of programs for those interested in educational careers.
Programs range from one-year certificates and career programs designed for employment upon graduation to transfer programs that prepare you for transferring to four-year institutions. Options include working in childcare centers or transferring to a four-year institution to qualify as a classroom teacher.


text:
A Thrill Ride in the Garden State
Quality Inn East Windsor • East Windsor, NJ
Escape Kit
- A One-Night Stay for Two in a King Guest Room, Sundays through Thursdays
- Two Six Flags Great Adventure & Safari Tickets
- Bottled Water and Cookies Upon Arrival
- $15 Credit at Tavern on the Lake Restaurant
- Combine Unlimited Vouchers to Extend Stay
The Destination
Jackson, New Jersey, gets props for its easy location midway between two urban meccas: New York City and Philadelphia. But the real draw is Six Flags Great Adventure & Safari. The 510-acre amusement park offers virtually endless attractions. If you're looking to get your heart pounding, the Kingda Ka coaster propels you to 128 miles per hour in 3.5 seconds. At 45 stories tall, it's both the tallest coaster in the world and the fastest in North America.
The Digs
The Quality Inn East Windsor lives up to its name, providing cozy accommodations to ensure you're well rested and complimentary breakfast to get you fueled-up for fun. In-room refrigerators, 27-inch TVs, free high-speed Internet, and more than 60 cable channels including free HBO, make the rooms here the epitome of comfort, and 24-hour coffee, cappuccino, and hot chocolate give you the energy to enjoy your amenities around the clock. Better still, Six Flags Great Adventure & Safari is just 20 miles away, so you can spend the day on roller coasters instead of in the car.
The Diversions
• Tame your hunger at the delicious Tavern on the Lake restaurant
• Roam Six Flags Safari, a 350-acre wildlife preserve, in a staff-driven all-terrain vehicle after May 27
• Enjoy premium shopping experiences at Jackson Premium Outlets near Six Flags
• Marvel the ivy-laden walls of Princeton University, just ten minutes away
"My daughter and I stayed here because of the location (right off the New Jersey Turnpike). Nice big room. Quiet. Clean... Would definitely stay again!"-- Hotels.com
escapes 30-day promise
LivingSocial gives you up to 30 days to return your unused voucher for a full refund. Once you've made a reservation, you are subject to the merchant's cancellation and refund policy. If you want to secure your preferred dates of travel, we strongly recommend that you complete reservation with the merchant within 30 days of your purchase—after that, LivingSocial will not issue any refunds.
the fine print
- Vouchers may be combined to extend stay
- Only valid for stays between now and October 27, 2013
- Reservations required and subject to availability
- Not valid toward existing or room block reservations
- Cancellation/re-scheduling policy of 72 hours applies; voucher subject to forfeiture
- Voucher valid for two guests
- Tickets are for Six Flags Great Adventure & Wild Safari; park hours vary throughout the season, please verify operating hours prior to booking
- Tavern on the Lake dining credit not valid on promotional or discounted item and gratuities not included
- Receipt will not be given from hotel
- Discounted Six Flags Great Adventure and Hurricane Harbor admission passes are available for purchase at the hotel for an additional cost, based on availability
- Pets are allowed for additional fee; please contact property directly
- Taxes/resort fee not included; payable directly to the property
- Nights must be spent consecutively; all inclusions must be redeemed during one stay
- Blackout date(s): June 13 and July 27, 2013
- Other conditions apply • PAID AND PROMOTIONAL VALUES EXPIRES ON October 27, 2013 • PAID VALUE DOES NOT EXPIRE • PAID VALUE EXPIRES ON October 27, 2018 • PROMOTIONAL VALUE EXPIRES ON October 27, 2013 • Enjoy By October 27, 2013
Other conditions apply
Except where noted in the fine print:
• Cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion
• Tax and gratuity are not included
• Merchant is responsible for the quality of the products or services provided to you at redemption
• LivingSocial Terms and Conditions - https://www.livingsocial.com/terms
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text:
× View Today's Deals
You missed it This great deal for Blue Sky Duct Cleaning is over. But don't despair, we've got more great deals every day.
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• Service area includes a 50 mile radius of 78023
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text:
There are two things I've been a fan of since I was a very young child: trains and computer simulation games. It is only in the past few weeks that I've considered how strange it is that those two things have never combined; although rail simulators have been around since the mid 1980s, I have never played one. All that changed last month when I got my hands on a copy of Train Simulator 2013 on Steam and gave it a run.
The game covers four different routes, London to Brighton, the Isle of Wight, Sherman Hill and the Northeast Corridor with a fifth (Munich to Augsburg) included in the deluxe edition. You can also buy additional routes as expansions, including those from the previous editions of the game. The line I was most interested in was London to Brighton, a line I have traveled many times as a teenager living near the English capital. I think there is something to be said for the extra interest that comes in playing a route you know personally. The US and German lines held much less interest for me, but I do think I'd be very interested in playing on other routes I know well.
Playing the game for the first time is rather baffling as there is no tutorial to guide you through the menus. I figured it out easily enough and selected a 15 minute route that was classed as "easy." This route included the most basic tutorial I have ever come across. The trains controls included dozens of buttons but only the absolute basics were covered: the lever that controls acceleration and braking, the button that opens the passenger doors, and how to couple up to carriages — which seemed to basically consist of driving into them. The only other thing mentioned was how to read the signals and contact the signalman to request to pass one at danger. I can only guess that there is an assumption that players buying this game are already familiar with this game style, but it is slightly baffling for a newbie. Once I finished the tutorial route I opened up another 15 minute "easy" route. After playing for a few minutes I was informed that I would need to manually change something, but no instructions on how to do this were given and nothing I pressed seemed to work, so I gave up.


text:
Greetings from Italy !! This is the suit made by me and my boyfriend ( all pieces, armors, skirt, bodysuit etc... ). 4 months of really hard work.. and "The Dented Helmet" for only resource..Many thanks Guys !!!
Greetings from Italy !! This is the suit made by me and my boyfriend ( all pieces, armors, skirt, bodysuit etc... ). 4 months of really hard work.. and "The Dented Helmet" for only resource..Many thanks Guys !!!
Wow!!! That is a cool costume!!!
Who is your boyfriend? Congrats to the both of you on the job well done!
this is the "MADE IN ITALY"!
The costume is veeeeeeery nice! Good job!
Fantastic job!!!
Great job to a fellow Zammer. I am currently working on mine. I have almost all the greeblies. I just the need some armor pieces and the leather. After all that is collected, I can really get into making it.
Anyway, enough about how my costume is going, your's looks great. I hope mine comes out that good. It's a hard costume. Congrats to your boyfriend too for helping you.
Last edited by ultraviolet; Oct 29, 2008 at 10:09 AM.
Wow! Very nice!! Good work on this.
Looks fantastic!
Good job, looks great!
Itailians usually make nice suits. this outfit is no exception.
Nice work
Thanks guys !! Some pics of the working phases...
Thanks for posting all those pics! It's interesting to see how you put together your Zam! ( Dyeing/Painting all those squares for the skirt is a pain in the butt... isn't it! )
On your pants - Did you sew the "saddle" pieces on like an applique or were they separate pieces?
amazing job
Great Job. Some motivation for me as a newcomer. Thanks for posting the pics.
Hurra!!! Today I'm BH7262 Hurra!!!
Congrats!! What a beauty!! Amazing costume, love the details!
Congratulations!!!! You're Officially Official and all! Well done!
This a fantastic Zam outfit. CONGRATULATIONS
Looks great. I feel like if you can make this suit you can make any suit. I myself have made 3 suits. Boba Fett, Jango fett and a Ep2 clone. Now i am making my wife a Zam. I am a member of the 501st legion. Carolina Garrison
Hey Angela,...Congradulations!
You have an awesome Zam costume.
Fantastic job indeed!
(Fabrizio) aka "Dark Side" do you have anything to do with this?... hehe!
Angela and Riccardo are enought good propmakares to make the costume only with their hands!:thumbup
Congratulations for your ID!
Congratulations!! That costume looks great!!


text:
The name Benelli and hunting go together. The Benelli ComforTech Gel Recoil Pad will easily change the pull length of your SBE II, M2, Nova or SuperNova. Just insert an optional Gel Recoil Pad to reduce the L.O.P. - length of pull. All pads have excellent recoil reducing properties. Right hand and left hand available.
The gel recoil pad puts more shock-absorbing material against your shoulder to spread recoil. There are no hard inner structures that push against you. The soft, comfort-fitting gel recoil pad takes the sting out of magnum loads like no conventional recoil pad can.
The ergonomics of the gel recoil pad are so carefully engineered that there are separate versions for left- and right-handed shooters. The pad is shaped to conform to the contours of the shoulder for maximum contact.
Benelli's ComforTech system revolutionizes firearms technology. For centuries, the laws of physics have defined shooting comfort. If you wanted less recoil, your choices were to make the shot charge lighter or the gun heavier. Reducing the shot charge compromises on-target performance, and increased gun weight affects the speed and balance of the shotgun.
Easily change the pull length of your SBE II, M2, SuperSport, Cordoba, Vinci, Nova, or SuperNova. Insert an optional Gel Recoil Pad to change the L.O.P. to 13-7/8", 14-3/8" or 14-7/8". All pads have excellent recoil-reducing properties. (Specify right- or left-hand.)
Mack's Prairie Wings is not responsible for typographical errors in pricing or product specification inaccuracies in our web site. Prices are subject to change without notice.
Copyright © 2017 - Mack's Sport Shop LLLP - All rights reserved. Site Developed and Maintained by Ability Commerce
Copyright © 2004-2017 - Mack's Prairie Wings, Inc. - All rights reserved. Site Developed and Maintained by Ability Commerce


text:
I'm pretty confident on this one, and that is that Brennan Williams will be totally fine, and hes either gonna make it or not based on his talent... I expect to see him workout at the combine, if not before, and this 2 be a thing of the past in no time.. Also, i'd be shocked if hes not taken in the first 3rds of this yrs draft, if not earlier.. I would personally take em the end of RD 2, and love the value we'd be getting, as hes gonna be a starting RT in the NFL in no time.
Theres really not a whole lotta info out there on Olineman with this injury? I mean, Mike Wahle had it, nad returned just fine.. Andrew Gardner, a 2008 prospect from Ga.Tech had it and played with it most of the season, but he was never anyone who had a huge stock,. and was taken in the 6th rd,. and has managed to stick around in the NFL ever since..
Again, i'd be shocked if half the teams in the NFL didn't pounce on the value of having a brennan williams there to pick up in the 3rd rd, if hes still there.. Thats value galore.. Especially if hes all ready playing in all star games and participating in the NFL combine..
Heres a article actually entitled NFL torn labrums common injury..lol
Scout.com: Torn Labrum Is a Common NFL injury
mbd.scout.com/mb.aspx?s=124&f=1930&t=995268 - Similar
Seems like quite a few NFL players have suffered torm Labrum
Also, found out that STEFEN WISNEWSKI played his entire Rookie season with a torn labrum.. Also, Jared Allen and Ed reed are both playing with torn labrums as we speeak, and Jared Allen has had his for awhile.. Sidney RIce and Blaine Gabbet also have them.. I'd say its safe to say, its a common injury, and not much of a Career jepordizer... I haven't seen one player who had one, that has actually lost there career over it, let alone some one as young as Brennan Williams.. Shoot, Jonas Jennings had one, and did it later in his 20's, after alot of wear and tear, and still played 3more yrs in the NFL after that...
Poyer had 7picks this yr, and mixes it up well in run support, and is big enough to handle the bigger NFL recievers, and is very smart and instinctive, and has a ton of ST value, as a KR and PR... This kid is underrated for some reason? He just makes plays on the field.. Hes got 13 career interceptions with a game to come at OREGON ST...
Man, it stings watching guys like Vick Ballard RB Indy turning into a nice steal in RD5, when we can't even get much positive yardage or any thing substantial outta our 1st rd pick... I loved Vick Ballard as a Sleeper, as did Redeye, and hes turning into quite the RB ... I thought he'd be gone before RD5, but colts nabbed em early 5th.. The colts had one heck of adraft.. They pounced on Dwayne Allen, as soon as we passed, almost like they couldent beleive we passed, as they just took a TE earlier in the draft, and then went out and got a game changer in T.Y Hilton to boot.. They added starting quality playmakers in RD1,2,3,4, and 5... And even Chandler Harnish played extremely well in the preseason as mr.irrelevant..(another kid most know i liked..)
The colts instantly chnaged there futur and fortunes in one single draft.. This is why i love the draft.. U do ur job right, and u can change ur fortunes real quickly.. I was angry we passed on Cordy Glenn and angry we passed on Dwayne Allen...
I don't even know what i'm rambling about, i'm just annoyed right now that we gotta must win against the freaking Saints today, and we have a brittle RB with nothing behind em, and a brittle WR, and know one really stepping up there either.. Rueben Randle or Jerrell Jerrnigan need to step up today! I went on high praise for Jerny in the offseason, and raved about the draft pick, and its time he start proving me right!!!!!
Whats the take on sleepers this yr around here? We used to start a sleeper thread, but probably just put tha INFO right in this thread this yr, i suppose?
Bored , so i figured i'd write down some sleepers of mine... Sleepers can also be guys who are perdicted to go in ealyish rds, that u think are gonna be way better then where they are selected... Any sleepers out there, u guys excited about?
Chris Jones DT Bowling Green- This guy can flat out make plays.. Hes strong, but a bit undersized at listed 292 lbs.. Hes had a incredible season, and could offer value if he goes where projected, in the 4th-6th range..
Theo Rid**** RB N.Dame- Love the kid, and think he helps a team.. He can catch as well as run, and he runs harder then his size indicates.. Could be a nice additon to a duo or trio backfield..
Cierre Wood RB N.Dame- Sticking with the NDAME backfield, CIerre Wood has the more prototypical size u want outta a back, and was a prized recruit when coming out.. Has deceptive speed, and can keep it moving forward after first contact.. Solid mid to late rd RB in my opinion... Has a body type like Darren McFaddens, and is a long strider in the open field, and has decent cut back ability.. Decent reciever outta backfield...
Jake Stoneburner TE Ohio St- I like this kid as a reciever going forward.. He has frame to pile on a few more LB's, and could be a nice additon in the 5-7rd range.. A decent fall back option, if we dont go TE early..
DJ Swearinger S S.Carolina- Hes not a huge sleeper per say, but hes better then a few of the S's perdicted to go ahead of him, in my opinion.. Hes a strong , fundamentally strong kid, who is a key member of a really good defenses backfield.. He can really lay a hit and is involved in most plays it seems.. Not great ball skills, but decent, and isn't a weakness against the pass.. I'd say more of a all around safety, and not specializing in one or the other(pass or against run)..
Dennis Johnson RB Arkansas- Another RB , i know..lol This kid can take a hit and keep on moving, and has that MJD, R.Rice , D.Martin look about em, and i love those low center of gravity backs, that have some shiftiness to em as well.. He has taken over the backfield away from Knile Davis , despite some of that being Davis probably not recovering from injury as well as we hoped, still give em his props for that.. A hard runner, with deceptive speed, could be better pro then college player...
Adrian Bushell CB Louisville- A solid sized CB, who can make the plays against the pass, and was supposed to take over for Joe Haden at FLORIDA but followed Charlie Strong to Louisville.. THe kids been rising, and i expect him to continue that.. Reminds me alittle bit of another former Louisiville CB i liked alot and ended up with saints, Johnny Patrick, who went in RD3...
AJ Klein ILB Iowa St- I just like his gritty hard nosed approach and leadership qualities. he strikes me as the kinda guy who will always make it on to a team because of how hard he works, and the little things he does.. Not overly disimaler to our very own Chase Blackburn.. Good sized kid who can thump..
Jonathan Bostic ILB Florida- Another ILB i really like is Bostic.. Aggresive player, whos stout against run, and could be value on ST's as well.. I really like this kid...
Alec Lemon WR Syracuse
Shamarko Thomas S Syracuse
Earl Wolff S NC State
Blaize Foltz G T.C.U
LaAdrian Waddle OT Texas Tech
Robbie Rouse RB Fresno St.
Emory Blake WR Auburn
Steve Greer LB Virignia
Miguel Maysonet RB Stony Brook
Ryan Griffin TE UCONN
Everett Dawkins DT Florida St
Kapron Lewis-Moore DE- possibly switch to DT in a 43 pro sceme?
edit: call me a broken record but i feel the difference in this offense would have been seen immediately with coby fleener, and if you add Fleener and Bennett, we could of seen the dual TE sets come back to NY. Dan campbell/Jeremy shockey (Howard cross)
Last edited by rainierjef; 12-09-2012 at 03:31 PM.
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If you feel this item is offensive in any way, let us know.
Just give us an indication of what you find objectionable
(sometimes it isn't neccesarily clear), and we'll look into it.
Item ID: 84111
(A brief reflection on the Trayvon Martin case)
What is inappropriate about this item?


text:
Sign up to receive Food Bank news and updates:
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CookShop users, click here: CookShop Database
Below is a list of terms that are central to the fight against food poverty, including names of some of the programs and agencies involved in that work.
Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP): A USDA-sponsored nutrition education and meal reimbursement program that helps day care providers serve nutritious meals and snacks to children and adults.
Citymeals-on-Wheels: A nonprofit that provides funding to community-based agencies that bring weekend, holiday, emergency and weekday meals to homebound senior citizens who can no longer shop or cook for themselves.
Commodity Foods: Foods that the federal government purchases and distributes in order to support farm prices. The government distributes commodity foods nationwide to hunger-relief organizations to help support low-income Americans.
Community Supported Agriculture (CSA): A community of individuals who pledge support to a farm so that they receive shares in the farm's produce throughout the growing season. Food Bank For New York City's CSA Program connects low-income residents of Harlem with New York State farmers to access healthy, fresh and affordable food.
Community Garden: A community garden transforms empty lots into green spaces. Community gardens are collaborative projects created by members of the community; residents share in both the maintenance and rewards of the garden.
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): A federal refundable tax credit for low- to moderate-income working persons and families. Food Bank For New York City's Tax Assistance Program completed more than 40,000 tax returns for low-income New Yorkers last year, helping to bring more than $60 million in tax refunds and credits back into the city.
Emergency Food Assistance Program (EFAP): A New York City–sponsored program that funds food pantries and soup kitchens throughout the city. EFAP also provides administrative funding to build capacity at emergency food programs (EFPs), and administers technical assistance grants for the automation of food stamp (SNAP) enrollment at soup kitchens, food pantries and other locations. EFAP is a key source of emergency food for New York City.
Emergency Food Program (EFP): A soup kitchen, food pantry, or shelter that distributes food provided by food banks and other sources for people seeking emergency food assistance who would otherwise not get enough to eat or not eat well. Food Bank supports a network of approximately 1,000 community-based member programs.
Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP): Funded through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), EFSP supports organizations that operate shelters, food pantries and soup kitchens throughout New York City. EFSP funding subsidizes meals, groceries, lodging at shelters and other programs, one month's rent or mortgage payment, one month's utility bill, repairs for program facilities and equipment necessary to feed and shelter individuals.
Farmer's Market: A public market where farmers and other vendors gather to sell various fresh fruit, vegetables, meat and other foods directly to consumers.
Feeding America: The national hunger-relief nonprofit that organizes more than 200 food banks and food rescue organizations. Food Bank For New York City is a participating member.
Food and Nutrition Service (FNS): The USDA agency responsible for administering the nation's domestic nutrition assistance programs.
Food Bank: A nonprofit organization that distributes and/or stores food and related products that it solicits, collects and purchases from manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers and government agencies to community and emergency food programs.
Food Pantry: An emergency food program that distributes food to individuals and families. Food pantries typically provide three- to five-day grocery packages for the preparation of nutritionally balanced meals, and are a key source of emergency food for the working poor and for people whose food stamp benefits run out before month's end.
Food Poverty: Food poverty is the lack of access to food due to factors including low income and benefits, lack of access to grocery stores or transportation, and lack of availability of healthy, affordable foods within local stores and bodegas. Families living in food poverty are likely to include members suffering from health conditions related to poor nutrition such as diabetes and heart disease.
Hunger Prevention and Nutrition Assistance Program (HPNAP): HPNAP is a state-sponsored grant that provides emergency food programs with lines of credit at regional food banks and other organizations, including Food Bank For New York City and the United Way. HPNAP also awards grants for operations and equipment expenditures. This program is administered by the New York State Department of Health.
National School Lunch Program (NSLP): Provides cash and commodities to public and private elementary and secondary schools as a form of reimbursement for lunches. Students living at or below 130 percent of the federal poverty line receive free lunch, while those students living between 130 and 185 percent of the federal poverty line are eligible for reduced-price meals.
New York City Human Resources Administration (HRA): Serves a diverse group of New Yorkers through the administration of a broad range of social welfare programs and services, providing temporary help to individuals and families with social service and economic needs. HRA ensures individuals are provided food, shelter, temporary financial assistance, medical care, counseling and other essential services. HRA oversees the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and funds the city's Emergency Food Assistance Program (EFAP).
Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA): The New York State agency that oversees a range of programs for low-income residents, with a focus on employment wherever possible.
School Breakfast Program (SBP): A federally sponsored program that provides reimbursements for breakfast in public and private elementary and secondary schools. In New York City all students are eligible for a free school breakfast regardless of household income.
School Meals Programs: See National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs. As part of its "Eat to Learn" Initiative, Food Bank convenes the NYC School Meals Coalition to work on school meal issues in New York City.
Soup Kitchen: An emergency food program that serves prepared, nutritious meals to hungry individuals and families. Many soup kitchens also offer meals to the homebound.
Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC): WIC is a federally sponsored program that supplies low-income pregnant, postpartum and breastfeeding women and children five years of age and younger with vouchers for food, nutrition counseling, health screenings and referrals for health and other services.
Summer Food Service Program (SFSP): SFSP is an entitlement program that provides funding for centers that provide free breakfasts and lunches to children 18 or younger during the summer months. Also commonly known as Summer Meals.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): SNAP, formerly known as the federal Food Stamp Program, provides monthly benefits to eligible low-income families and individuals for the purchase of nutritious food. Food Bank For New York City facilitates food stamp access for over 44,000 New Yorkers in all five boroughs.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program — Education (SNAP-Ed): A federal/state partnership that supports nutrition education for people eligible for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Food Bank For New York City's CookShop, a nutrition education program for low-income New Yorkers in all five boroughs, is a federally funded SNAP-Ed project.
The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP): TEFAP distributes surplus commodity food to low-income families and individuals through emergency food programs. TEFAP entitlement and bonus commodities and grants for administrative and storage costs are provided by the federal government to the states, which administer the program through food banks and other hunger-relief organizations. TEFAP is the single biggets source of food distributed by Food Bank.
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA): The federal agency responsible for developing and executing U.S. federal government policy on farming, agriculture and food. It aims to end hunger in the United States and abroad, and administers many programs — such as SNAP, TEFAP, WIC and school meals programs — to help reach that end.
Contact Us ¦ Policy & Disclaimer ¦ Form 990
Main Office: 39 Broadway, New York, NY 10006 ¦ Phone: 212.566.7855 ¦ Fax: 212.566.1463
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© 2016 Food Bank For New York City. The Food Bank For New York City name, program names and materials are registered trade and service marks.


text:
Town Square
Development, General Plan, Downtown
Original post made by neighborhood watch, Danville, on Jan 21, 2013
Has anyone seen the incredible eyesore that is going up on San Ramon Valley Boulevard just south of town and north of Greenbrook Drive? Go look at it, THAT is Danville's future if we let things proceed with the other town plans...
That one is said and done, and it's hideous.
However, downtown development drawings (replacement of the Danville Hotel area) are approved as well. (the approval has expired TWICE and was waived as extended by our illustrious Governer Schwartzenegger and Brown because of the economy. I think the people of this town have the right to vote on the development plan that is supposedly in place downtown, that was approved 8 YEARS AGO!
Has anyone seen this plan?
People, the high density plan is in place, but what was "passed" 8 years ago needs to be re-looked at. People of this town have the right to steer its development!
a resident of Danville
on Jan 23, 2013 at 7:47 am
Yes, we should definitely have a right to approve any development in downtown! I had always hoped they would restore the Danville Hotel to it's 1980's appearance and maybe even bring back the Danville Hotel Restaurant - it was a great place for Sunday Brunch or family dinners where the staff dressed in historical clothes - it was great - and there were all these little boutique, locally owned stores were right in the courtyard there. Are they letting it go to pieces just so no one will object to its replacement? Seems like a lot of planning is being done in secret. WE SHOULD HAVE THE CHANCE TO APPROVE CHANGES TO OUR TOWN! Even these planning meetings to put big apartment, low income housing Downtown Danville are not being publicized - they're held Thanksgiving week, before Christmas, as kids start back to school - What about those of us who want Danville to retain its small town charm? Walnut Creek and San Ramon have grown into much bigger cities now - don't force us to devolve into an urban area. Our downtown is unique because it is a gathering place and small business, not big chain stores are located there - ELECTED OFFICIALS: how can you represent the wishes of those who put you in office if you haven't asked us yet??
a resident of Danville
on Jan 23, 2013 at 10:37 am
Anyone interested in the future development of Danville should attend meetings of the town council and write or email council and city planners to let them know their concerns. There are groups in place right now that are doing just that. Get involved if you really care!
a resident of Danville
on Jan 23, 2013 at 11:10 am
Great idea Danville Mom, for THEM to bring back the Danville Hotel. It is such a great idea, that WE will give YOU first dibs on being the developer that brings it back in its current form and condition. Talk to your husband, get his committment, and go secure the funds that you would need if you don't have them.
However caution is required. Obviously you can't ascertain the physical condition of the Danville Hotel. Those cute fake front walls are cheap and not fixable by any stretch of the imagination. They never were. And there was no conspiracy. I used to like the mexican restaurant there, but knew the facility and the layout was junk.
Hey, but have at it. I am sure the current property owner will entertain your purchase offer, and the town of Danville will work with you to approve it as is. Since you are so sure of its condition, make sure to buy it "As-is." So you don't waste any money on needless "inspections."
a resident of Danville
on Jan 23, 2013 at 12:12 pm
You know JT, I think you're on to something. I think I would be willing to sign-on and carry a non-binding minority stake (preferred position) in an enterprise that Soccer Mom above was willing to lead as the strategic. Let's see if she gets the go ahead from her board to move forward on this deal. As opined by herself, she is clearly the most qualified at defining and determining that ethereal essence of design, function and a certain but undefinable 'je ne sais quoi' of city planning. Great idea, btw. ...


text:
Dance, Theater, and Music
La Jolla Music Society
"Superb international soloists and some of the most talented resident musicians."—Cathy Robbins, music writer, VoiceOfSanDiego.org. Concerts range from piano recitals and jazz trios to dance companies and symphonies; acclaimed SummerFest under direction of violinist Cho-Liang Lin in August; performances in various venues. Tickets from $25. 7946 Ivanhoe Avenue, La Jolla; tel. +1 858 459 3728. www.la-jolla-music-society.com
La Jolla Playhouse
Founded by Gregory Peck, Dorothy McGuire, and Mel Ferrer and winner of the 1993 Tony for Outstanding Regional Theatre. Many Broadway hits originated here, including Jersey Boys, I Am My Own Wife, and The Farnsworth Invention; performances in three venues on the UCSD campus. Tickets from $28. 2910 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla; tel. +1 858 550 1010. www.lajollaplayhouse.org
La Jolla Symphony
The season, which runs November through June, ranges from a sing-along of Handel's Messiah to the American premiere of a new Philip Glass work in 2007; performances in Mandeville Auditorium, UCSD Campus. Tickets from $15. 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla; tel. +1 858 534 4637. www.lajollasymphony.com
The Old Globe
"I love the Shakespeare Festival in the summer with the peacocks calling from the zoo."—Debbie K. Hardin, author of Great Destinations: San Diego and Tijuana. Beloved year-round producing organization with three theaters in Balboa Park. Numerous premieres of subsequent Broadway hits, including The Full Monty. Tickets from $29. 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park; tel. +1 619 234 5623. www.theoldglobe.org
San Diego Opera
Under leadership of Ian Campbell the San Diego Opera has emerged as one of the city's most successful arts organizations. The season of five operas runs late-January through mid-May—usually including warhorses like Aida with a couple more adventurous offerings; performances at the Civic Theatre. Non-subscription tickets go on sale in December, priced from $28. 1200 Third Avenue, downtown; tel. +1 619 533 7000. www.sdopera.com
San Diego Symphony
An organization with its share of struggles over the years, but rescued by a significant donation in 2002. Now under direction of Jahja Ling with performances October-May at Symphony Hall (a 1929-era movie theatre), plus a summer pops season June-August at the Embarcadero Marina Park. Tickets from $20. 1245 Seventh Avenue, downtown; tel. +1 619 235 0804. www.sandiegosymphony.com
"It's a beautiful, state-of-the-art place, and they've already drawn major people like Chick Corea and Arturo Sandoval."—George Varga, pop music critic, San Diego Union-Tribune. Opened in 2007, this $3.5 million, three-level jazz cum supper club wins raves for its architecture, acoustics, and dining. Tickets from $5. 1337 India Street, Little Italy; tel. +1 619 595 0300. www.anthologysd.com
"San Diego's only true dance club, with house music, good DJs."—Erin Chambers, San Diego editor, Citysearch.com. The food is forgettable, overpriced (even if it offers a break on the cover), but the whomping sound system compensates, powering two sprawling dance floors with hip-hop, house, and trance vibes. Cover charge. 919 Fourth Avenue, downtown; tel. +1 619 231 9200. www.belosandiego.com
The Casbah
"Everybody from Ice-T to Eddie Vedder has hung out there, so it has real cachet."—George Varga. It's a dive bar with a capacity of just 200, but a history of showcasing acts like Nirvana and Smashing Pumpkins on the cusp of fame. Tickets from $6. 2501 Kettner Boulevard, Little Italy; tel. +1 619 232 4355. www.casbahmusic.com
"An exercise in restraint when a lot of downtown places are going for over-the-top."—Erin Chambers. The club is intimate but not overly exclusive, with trendy small plate food and a good-looking staff. Cover charge. 901 Fourth Avenue, downtown; tel. +1 619 696 8888. www.confidentialsd.com
Intimate, reliable spot for local jazz artists in the Gaslamp, with regular appearances by namesake Jim Croce's son (and musician) A. J. Croce. Cover charge waived if you dine at the pricey restaurant. 802 Fifth Avenue, downtown; tel. +1 619 233 4355. www.croces.com
A 1,300-seat outdoor venue next to the San Diego Bay that draws a high-profile annual lineup covering rock, folk, jazz, blues, and standup comedy. The season runs mid-May through October; some audience members enjoy concerts floating in a kayak. The rest of the year smaller acts perform in the adjacent restaurant. Tickets from $40. 2241 Shelter Island Drive, Point Loma; tel. +1 619 224 3577. www.humphreysbythebay.com
Whale Watching
Mid-December to mid-April. Annual migration by thousands of gray whales from their summer feeding grounds in Alaska to winter breeding lagoons in Baja, California. Once on the road to extinction, view the whales from the shore at Point Loma or take a whale-watching tour. aquarium.ucsd.edu
Thoroughbred Racing Season
Mid-July to early-September. "The turf meets the surf" in Del Mar at Bing Crosby's 1937 racetrack, with handsome Spanish Mission-style architecture. tel. +1 858 792 4242. www.delmarracing.com
San Diego LGBT Pride
Mid-July. The fifth largest gay pride gathering in the country starts in Hillcrest with a Saturday morning parade, then shifts to Balboa Park for an annual fair commemorating the struggle for LGBT rights. Food, music performances, and elaborate costumes. tel. +1 619 297 7683. www.sdpride.org
Comic-Con International
Late July. Since 1970, this four-day convention held downtown draws comic book, sci-fi, and movie fans from around the world. Many of the 125,000 attendees come in costume for sneak previews of Hollywood films and panels with high-profile creative types. Tip: Day passes sell out weeks in advance, as do downtown hotels. tel. +1 619 491 2475. www.comic-con.org
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text:
The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey has missed out on nominations in the directing, acting and overall best picture categories for the 2013 Academy Awards.
However, the Peter Jackson epic picked up three Oscar nominations for technical awards.
The first film in The Hobbit trilogy was nominated for makeup and hairstyling, production design and visual effects at the Oscar nomination ceremony hosted by Emma Stone and Seth MacFarlane overnight.
By comparison, The Fellowship of the Ring, the first of The Lord of the Rings films, was nominated for 13 awards, including best picture and best director.
The film won four Oscars - claiming best cinematography, visual effects, makeup and original score.
Civil War saga Lincoln led the 2013 Academy Awards nominations with 12, followed by Life of Pi with 11.
Hobbit director Jackson told Entertainment Weekly last month he didn't expect nominations in the high profile categories.
However he felt the film had "great possibilities in the below the line categories".
"I wish it was a year where we could celebrate Ian McKellen as supporting actor, or Martin Freeman - or Andy Serkis, for that matter - as a supporting actor. The acting awards seem to elude us, at least for these types of films. I don't know why."
Jackson's Lord of the Rings trilogy picked up a total of 17 Oscars, with the final film in the series, The Return of the King, picking up 11 in 2004.
The 85th Oscars will be held on February 24 at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.
- Herald Online


text:
Submit News
Windows 8 Usability on PCs for Novice and Power Users Blasted in Study
Jason Mick
November 21, 2012 4:20 PM
Recipient E-mail
Sender E-mail
(Source: flickr)
Windows 8 has some good ideas but not for the PC form factor, the report's author argues
The baby
Microsoft Corp. (
Windows President Steven Sinofsky
Windows 8
, was supposed to be a dynamite follow-up to Windows 7. Instead the successor to the
best-selling operating system in history
is perhaps becoming best known for its
deeply divisive impact
on users.
Users tend to be split into two camps. On one side are folks like Steven "Woz" Wozniak, Apple, Inc. (
) co-founder, who takes the perspective that Windows 8 (and its mobile brethren Windows Phone) are wildly innovative. "The Woz" commented in a
recent interview
, "I've seen more of the type of innovation (from Microsoft) where you see something: 'Whoa - they really changed things drastically. Whoa - they aren't even going the same direction as everyone else' - meaning the iPhone and Android operating systems."
But others, like
typically pro-Windows
blogger Paul Thurrott (who
compared Win8 to Windows ME
) and Valve's Gabe Newell (who
called the OS a "disaster"
) are decidedly unhappy with the radical shift.
Such sentiments have been compiled and perhaps most eloquently analyzed by Jakob Nielsen of
, who compiled a
rich, multi-page study
on what he feels are the flaws of Windows 8.
Windows 8 boxes on diplay at Wal-Mart [Image Source: The Verge]
Among his major gripes:
Double desktop (Windows 8 UI vs. the traditional desktop)
creates interface slowness and cognitive dissonance
Switch to single windowing
Hard to remember what you have open for complex tasks
"Flat" look of Windows 8 UI tiles
Hard to tell where tile boundaries are, icons are more likely to be less distinctive
Photo/graphic heavy UI themes
While nice to look at they convey information at a lower density than "uglier" themes
Live Tiles
Third party developers show less sophistication than Microsoft, toss together confusing tiles that don't enhance usability or understanding.
Harder to use on traditional devices, are hidden (and thus forgotten), and don't work universally across Windows interface, so they confuse.
Nielsen says the gestures are error prone and overly complex, such as the multi-step gesture to reveal running apps.
Tablet UI for Desktops
The above problems are less obvious on tablets, or in some cases not problems at all; he argues "One Windows" is a bad strategy for Microsoft
Mr. Nielsen gives these "Live Tiles" as examples of the UI tempting developers into sloppy, confusing design. [Image Source: AlertBox]
He tries to buck the inevitable hate train that's coming down the tracks in his direction, telling Microsoft fans (which he claims to himself be one of):
Because this column is very critical of Microsoft's main product, some people will no doubt accuse me of being an Apple fanboy or a Microsoft hater. I'm neither. I switched from Macintosh to Windows many years ago and have been very pleased with Windows 7.
I am a great
fan of the dramatic "ribbon" redesign of Office
(we later gave several
awards to other applications
that adapted this UI innovation), and I proclaimed the
Kinect an "exciting advance in UI technology."
I have many friends who work at Microsoft and know that it has many very talented usability researchers and UI designers on staff.
I have nothing against Microsoft. I happen to think that Windows 7 is a good product and that Windows 8 is a misguided one. I derived these conclusions from
first principles of human–computer interaction theory
and from watching users in our new research. One doesn't have to hate or love a company in order to analyze its UI designs.
I'll stay with Win7 the next few years and hope for better times with Windows 9. One great thing about Microsoft is that they do have a history of correcting their mistakes.
Of course there are plenty of counterarguments to his points. For example, blaming Microsoft for poorly designed live tiles or uncreative overly similar flat tiles is perhaps unfair. Many gestures have backup keyboard shortcuts for traditional PCs. Mobile-heavy users have already gotten used to hidden multi-tasking so hiding windows isn't the end of the world. Graphically rich themes may pack less information, but they encourage users to dig in and grab more information. The double desktop only becomes a hindrance if you have to keep going back to the traditional desktop as a crutch.
As the above counter-arguments illustrate, there's two sides to nearly every argument regarding Windows 8. Perhaps that's why it's proved so utterly divisive.
Our survey
shows that roughly half of readers (45 percent) have made the upgrade to Windows 8, but a significant remaining portion (36 percent) have strongly negative opinions about it and no plans to upgrade, comparing it to such loathed releases as Windows ME or Windows Vista.
UseIT / Jakob Nielsen
"If they're going to pirate somebody, we want it to be us rather than somebody else." -- Microsoft Business Group President Jeff Raikes
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text:
I am a new beekeeper this year in fall i had to consolidate my 2 hives as they didn't have enough honey. So i need to feed a local beekeeper in my area suggested getting the fondant from a local candy store that he gets it from. I ordered and now have 30 pounds of fondant, but it softer then what i have seen on you tube. Can I still use it? It is soft enough to scoop, but not soft enough to run all over the place.
Please let me know if you have any advice
Worried Beginner