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Steven Hill
GAMING THE VOTE: Why Elections Aren't Fair (and What We Can Do About It). William Poundstone. xii + 338 pp. Hill and Wang, 2008. $25.
The realm of electoral system design is still a fairly esoteric branch of political science in the United States—unfortunately so, since no single detail has a greater impact on the quality of representative government. The choice of an electoral system affects which candidate gets elected and all other aspects of a representative democracy, including the number of viable political parties, the quality of campaigns, voter participation levels, the role of campaign finance, legislative policy and more.
But despite the central importance of electoral system selection, the subject has never received much attention in the United States, especially compared with such topics as the role of money, term limits, voter registration and, more recently, the security of voting equipment and election administration. Debate over what system works best has been largely the province of a handful of academics. William Poundstone's Gaming the Vote: Why Elections Aren't Fair (and What We Can Do About It) is a welcome, though flawed, attempt to bring these important discussions to a popular audience.
Poundstone focuses on exploring the unintended consequences unleashed by the widespread use of the electoral system known as plurality voting. Under this system, each voter votes for one choice, and the candidate with the most votes wins, even if he or she has received less than a majority of the votes cast.
The problem with this method, as revealed both by mathematical models and by analysis of results from actual elections, is that it can lead to victory for the wrong candidate. If there are just two candidates, then a plurality is also a majority, and the method works fine. If candidate A is favored by 55 percent of the voters and B by 45 percent, nobody will disagree that A should win. But if candidate C enters the race and draws votes from some supporters of A, this hypothetical three-way race could result in A receiving only 40 percent of the votes, B still getting 45 percent, and C, the "spoiler candidate," obtaining 15 percent. Although a majority of all voters still favor A over B, B is declared elected under plurality rules.
B in fact is opposed by 55 percent of the electorate and yet has benefited from a dreaded defect of the "plurality wins all" method: the split vote, and the spoiler candidates who are blamed for causing it. Some voters soon figure out the rules of the game and, not wanting to waste their vote, begin voting for "the lesser of two evils"; others insist on their right to vote their conscience, even if doing so contributes to their least-favorite candidate winning. The voters and candidates with the most in common—the A s and C s in this example—end up bitterly divided.
The problem is a very real one, as Poundstone points out. The 2000 presidential election became the poster child for the defects of plurality voting when a center-left majority in Florida split between Al Gore and Ralph Nader, allowing Republican George W. Bush to win the state and the presidency. This split-vote dynamic has occurred in at least 11 percent of U.S. presidential elections. If cars or airliners had a failure rate that high, Poundstone pithily notes, they would be deemed "unsafe at any speed." In some U.S. Senate races in 2006, the candidacies of Libertarian Party spoilers resulted in incumbent Republicans losing their seats, allowing Democrats to take control of the chamber. So this is a nonpartisan dilemma; no major party is exempt from having votes siphoned off by a spoiler candidate.
The question at the heart of Poundstone's inquiry is, Which electoral systems will prevent spoilers and vote splitting, given that we don't want to ban independent and third-party candidates from the ballot? In the most interesting part of the book, he explores several electoral systems—approval voting, range voting, Condorcet voting, the Borda count and instant runoff voting, all of which allow voters either to rate or to rank multiple candidates. Reading descriptions of electoral systems can be about as much fun as watching paint dry. Poundstone, however, grounds his exegesis in personal stories and amusing anecdotes. He also manages to keep his account lively with an easy writing style and a sharp eye for illustrative narrative.
Poundstone does a competent job of weighing for his readers the pros and cons of the methods he highlights, but ultimately he goes awry in his analysis. The best solution to plurality voting's defects will be the method that most liberates voters to choose the candidates they truly like without fearing that honestly ranking or rating the ones who are their second and third choices might help to defeat their favorite candidate. Also, that method must do this not just in the mathematical models of the academic scholars on whom Poundstone relies as his primary sources of information but in the real world of rough-and-tumble politics, in which candidates and voters don't always behave as expected.
This is important, because these mathematical models and electoral paradoxes can break down in real-world situations. For example, approval voting certainly has virtues, such as simplicity: The voter simply "approves" as many candidates for a given office as he or she wishes by making a mark next to their names. A running tally is kept of the vote total, and the one who gets the most votes wins. Simple.
Or at least it would be if all elections were tepid affairs, as they often are in academic and private institutions that use approval voting from time to time. In those elections, the voters usually don't care much about the outcome. But elections for public office are a different matter. There, voters and candidates often care a great deal about outcomes; they are what is known as "self-interested advocates," and that leads to a paradox.
Let's imagine that we're back in the spring of 2008 and the Democratic Party is using approval voting to nominate its presidential candidate. And let's say that I am a voter who strongly prefers Barack Obama but also likes Hillary Clinton. I can "approve" both Obama and Clinton, maximizing my voter choice. Unfortunately, however, by checking the box for Clinton, I might help her defeat Obama. Obama knows that, so he is going to tell his supporters, "Approve only me." Clinton will tell her supporters the same thing, as will the other candidates. Consequently, approval voting in the real world will have a tendency to revert back to the dreaded plurality voting.
This is not merely a hypothetical consideration. Approval voting has an at-large cousin known as bloc voting, which is the most widely used electoral system in the United States, used for thousands of local elections. And bloc voting has had a strong tendency to encourage voters to engage in single-shot or bullet voting —the approval of only one candidate instead of several.
The system Poundstone favors most is range voting: Voters approve as many candidates as they like and award each a certain number of points by rating them—on a scale of 1 to 10, for example, with 10 indicating the greatest degree of approval. The winner is the candidate with the highest average score. Range voting is basically a more sophisticated version of approval voting, which means that a rating for your second- or third-favorite candidate can contribute to the defeat of your favorite. Range voting is used on many Web sites for rating everything from the sexiest bodies to the best films, and it works fine when voters don't care greatly about the outcome. But if range voting is used for public elections, once again smart candidates will urge their supporters to vote strategically by not rating other candidates—that is, to bullet vote. So range voting also would tend to regress to plurality voting.
In short, range and approval voting sound good in theory but have serious shortcomings that become apparent when one takes into account human psychology and the blood sport of politics, with their disincentives to honest voting. Poundstone describes the problems with approval voting in some detail, but in my view he doesn't do enough to emphasize them. And for range voting, he makes the claim that "no one seems (yet) to have found anything dreadfully wrong with it." He dismisses concerns about strategic voting with either method. His discussion of these methods would have benefited if, instead of relying only on academics and their mathematical models, he had sought some input from actual politicians and political consultants, the practitioners who deal with electoral choices every day in the real world.
The other systems Poundstone discusses all involve ranking candidates. The Borda count method has voters rank all the candidates from most to least preferred by putting numbers next to their names. The rankings from every ballot are added up for each candidate, and the one with the highest score wins. This sounds easy—but, once again, a vote for your second choice can help defeat your favorite. If voters are required to rank every candidate, they can manipulate the outcome by giving the lowest rankings to the strongest rivals of their favorite, as has sometimes happened in sports polls.
The Condorcet, or pair-wise, method uses voters' rankings to conduct a head-to-head vote among all possible pairs of candidates, and the candidate who beats all the others is the winner. This approach is good at ensuring that the winner has a broad base of support, but it can also lead to a "cycle" in which no candidate wins all the head-to-head matches. The methods for breaking such a cycle are very complex, and it's hard to imagine that these complexities would be tolerated in a public election.
The voting method that best liberates voters from the paradox that support for a lesser candidate can hurt one's favorite choice is known as instant runoff voting. This system elects majority winners in a single election by allowing voters to rank their candidates first, second, third and so on, and using the rankings to simulate a series of runoff elections. Initially, all first rankings are counted, and if one candidate has a majority, she or he is declared the winner. If not, the last-place candidate is dropped from the running, and each ballot on which the eliminated candidate had been ranked first now is counted for the second-ranked candidate on that ballot. All ballots are recounted, and if at this point someone has a majority, she or he wins; if not, the candidate now in last place is eliminated and the process is repeated, round by round, until someone reaches the majority threshold.
What sets instant runoff voting apart from the other systems is that your second or third choice can never help defeat your favorite candidate, because by the time your vote moves to your lower choices, your top choice has been eliminated from the race. So in real-world elections with self-interested voters and candidates, instant runoff is the method that best allows voters to sincerely express their preferences and overcomes the defects of plurality voting. According to experts such as Nicolaus Tideman, instant runoff voting also is less apt to result in strategic voting than is range voting.
But, as Poundstone points out, some experts find fault with instant runoff voting. In particular, they are troubled by what is known as the "winner-turns-loser paradox"—the possibility that in a close three-way contest the order of elimination can be affected by small numbers of voters who change one of their rankings, which in turn flips the result. But I find this critique unconvincing. It is based exclusively on mathematical models and not on real-world experience. Poundstone fails to mention that instant runoff voting is the only one of the methods he discusses that has a significant track record of use in public elections, going back decades in Australia, Ireland and elsewhere. There are data from thousands of elections in which to search for signs of the paradox, yet no evidence of it has so far been found.
It is important to note that, pros and cons aside, all five of the systems that Poundstone focuses on are better than plurality voting. And his book performs a public service by engaging a popular audience in these discussions. But the book has regrettable shortcomings that stem from what Poundstone left out.
Foremost among these omissions is Gaming the Vote 's failure to consider that when you select an electoral system you are also choosing a system of values. Do you want a method that will elect candidates who tend to be ideologically moderate? If so, the current plurality system is the worst, because extremists who have a strong core of supporters can win a low-plurality victory when the field is split among too many candidates. If you want to ensure that the candidate who wins will be someone who has broad-based support, then the Condorcet method works well. And instant runoff voting will produce winners who have not only a broad base of support but also a strong core of supporters. Electoral methods experts—such as Douglas Amy (the author of Behind the Ballot Box: A Citizen's Guide to Voting Systems [2000]) and staff members of the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance in Stockholm—recommend that you establish the values you are trying to instill in your democracy and then design the electoral system that will achieve those values. This perspective is a valuable foundation for the analysis of electoral methods.
Also, Poundstone limits his exploration to "winner take all" elections for a single office (governor, mayor, president or representative of a single-seat legislative district). He mostly ignores the group of methods known broadly as proportional representation, which is too bad, because an analysis of them would have shed even more light on the themes in the subtitle: "why elections aren't fair" and "what we can do about it." True, there is a certain logic to Poundstone's decision to focus on the type of election used overwhelmingly in the United States, but because of it, he never really confronts the defects and paradoxes that plague all "winner take all" electoral methods. The fact is, most elections in the United States are not even remotely competitive, with most legislative districts, indeed entire states, having become one-party "red" or "blue" strongholds in which three-fourths of the contests are won by landslide margins. But the problem that creates these noncompetitive races is the use of "winner take all" itself, not any particular variant of it. Perhaps Poundstone believes that poking at the underbelly of "winner take all" elections would be too vast an undertaking, but this omission makes his thesis less robust.
Nevertheless, for those concerned about the state of American politics, and for those who have never thought much about the role of electoral systems, Poundstone's effort is a useful introduction to the idea that we don't have to accept the flawed rules currently in use. If the United States is to bring its political system into the 21st century, it will be necessary for more Americans to ground their understanding of politics in an awareness of the impact of electoral systems.
Steven Hill is director of the Political Reform Program at the New America Foundation. He is the author of Fixing Elections: The Failure of America's Winner Take All Politics (Routledge, 2002; www.fixingelections.com ) and of 10 Steps to Repair American Democracy (PoliPointPress, 2006; www.10steps.net ).
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Sponsored Tingles: Dr. Oetker Savoury Moment
New Moon
The end of November is here so it's time for another Dr. Oetker Savoury moment in gossip. This month Dr. Oetker is giving away a $20,000 Kitchen Makeover plus 8 secondary prizes from Whirlpool Click here to enter. And click here if you need to catch up on our previous Dr. Oetker Savoury moments so far this year.
How about one for the Twi-Hards. New Moon owned November. And New Moon promotion dominated everything else, the high point perhaps not when the film broke records but when Twi-Hards were rewarded for all the hours they spent virtual hugging each other encouragingly in chatrooms as Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson were photographed holding hands at an airport.
You would have thought the Saviour had arrived. Then they started naming the future Robsten babies. Even Krisbert is better than Renesmee, non?
At 19 and 23 respectively Stewart and Pattinon are unlikely to be together forever. Young relationships are fraught with drama, young celebrity relationships even more so. For the sake of Twi-Hards however let's believe that theirs is the most enduring love of all time, like Bella and Edward. Because if it ever ends…
Oh la…
Their messages are alarming enough when they're happy. Can you imagine my inbox when they're grieving?
Photos from Splashnewsonline.com and Wenn.com

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text: so, i [used] my honey extraction today.... quite interesting, quite messy, and quite a bit slower than i thought it would be.... i use a hand crank to spin 3 medium frames at a time. i do NOT have an electric knife, so i had to resort to scraping open the caps with a fork. This leaves quite a bit of wax to be strained after spinning.... i strained through 3 different sized screens and never heated the honey at any time. Is there a way to speed up this process short of buying an electric knife? The honey looks like lemonade, perhaps just a bit darker.... i'm waiting for bubbles to rise before bottling the stuff.


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A petition drive to stop the Faria Preserve, a 440-acre site east of Bollinger Canyon Road and north of Crow Canyon Road in San Ramon, has collected more than 100 signatures. The petition claims that "high-density and very high density neighborhoods planned for the area "lack sufficient space for living and parking."
Read the full story here Web Link posted Monday, August 12, 2013, 5:35 PM
Town Square
Petition hopes to stop development of Faria Preserve
Original post made on Aug 13, 2013
Like this commentPosted by concerned resident
a resident of San Ramon
on Aug 13, 2013 at 10:31 am
Sad to say the project was a done deal as far as the SR Council is concerned before the public ever heard of it. Your group needs to raise money now to hire experts and an attorney to document the flaws in the EIR, then sue the City after they approve it for failure to comply with CEQA. If they need a rezoning, you could do a referendum on it immediately after it is approved. Also, why is this land a "Preserve" and now it can be built out? You better check into that right away.


text: Does anyone use one of the super lifts or hive elevators like the one kelleys advertises on page 50 of their new catalog? Was wondering if anyone has made one or has plans that I can take to my local fabricator and see if he can beat that $900 price tag. Sure would be nice on the back this upcoming fall.


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I have 2 beehives in my friends backyard. We've recently noticed that the bees have been more aggressive then usual. This is the only apiary I have to wear gloves at and the bees have been very defensive, they buzz at people that come within 15 feet of the hives.
An option is the re-queen the hives with a more gentle queen bee, but these bees have been doing great. Both hives have survived the last 3 years (treatment free) and produce quite a bit of honey. I was thinking of going to Home Depot and buying a 6ft tall bamboo fence to make a barrier between the bees and my friends backyard lawn. Will the bees be less aggressive, if they can't see anyone on the other side of the fence? or does anyone have any suggestions?
Thank you,


text: A lady gave me a swarm in a whiskey barrel and I decided to just leave them in there. So I drilled a hole in the back side, and one in the top, then I set a super on top, after a while, they filled the bottom, and moved up and filled the super. Now it is a new year and the queen is a year older and maybe need to be replaced, so how can I get her to come up to the super so I can put a new queen in the barrel. I would like to take a split out of the barrel without tearing it all apart, (before they swarm) because there is a lot of bees in there.


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Buy an Axon, Axon II, or Axon Mote and build a great robot, while helping to support SoR.
Total Members Voted: 27
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admin, you got a directory with all your robot pics? (the blue ones one the home page)
how about "I make robots..... If you see me running, try to keep up." (got the idea from another shirt)
Heres some more"Anyone seen a robot, about yey high, oh and with a machine gun...""Thank god for kill switches""My robot can beat up your robot""High Voltage + Robot = BAD ""It wasn't me , it was by twin android"EDIT: All these quotes are 100% original
hmmmm I almost forgot about that post . . . was ages ago . . . I never got around to it, but maybe Ill make some shirts this time. I want to at least make one for myself for when I go to competitions . . .Quoteadmin, you got a directory with all your robot pics? (the blue ones one the home page)http://www.societyofrobots.com/images/(yea, that directory kinda got big after only 2.5 years)Just do a search for 'blue'


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ABC: FBI knew Hasan tried to contact Al-Qaeda
posted at 9:30 am on November 9, 2009 by Ed Morrissey
Would it normally be considered a national-security problem if a high-ranking military officer had tried to contact an enemy of the United States during wartime? ABC News reports that the FBI knew that Major Nidal Hasan had attempted to contact al-Qaeda and its associates months before Hasan went on a shooting rampage at Fort Hood, killing 13 people. Did the FBI tell the Army about it? That gets rather murky:
U.S. intelligence agencies were aware months ago that Army Major Nidal Hasan was attempting to make contact with people associated with al Qaeda, two American officials briefed on classified material in the case told ABC News.
It is not known whether the intelligence agencies informed the Army that one of its officers was seeking to connect with suspected al Qaeda figures, the officials said.
One senior lawmaker said the CIA had, so far, refused to brief the intelligence committees on what, if any, knowledge they had about Hasan's efforts.
However, the Army certainly had enough information to know that Hasan was a problem:
A fellow Army doctor who studied with Hasan, Val Finell, told ABC News, "We would frequently say he was a Muslim first and an American second. And that came out in just about everything he did at the University.
Finell said he and other Army doctors complained to superiors about Hasan's statements.
"And we questioned how somebody could take an oath of office…be an officer in the military and swear allegiance to the constitution and to defend America against all enemies, foreign and domestic and have that type of conflict," Finell told ABC News.
Meanwhile, the imam with whom Hasan associated — with his own ties to the 9/11 terrorists — has issued a statement calling Hasan a "hero," a "man of conscience" who successfully resolved the conflict of being Muslim and a member of the American armed forces. Anwar al-Awlaki now lives in Yemen, but he used to run mosques in Denver, San Diego, and Falls Church before beating feet after the 9/11 attacks. ABC reports that Awlaki runs a jihadist web site, which is where he posted his support of Hasan.
Did Hasan commit his act of terror alone or under instructions from Awlaki and his AQ associates? That's what investigators want to know, but either way it seems that a 9/10 attitude has re-entered national-security considerations. Anyone attempting to contact al-Qaeda should have been arrested, or at the least kept away from military bases. Why did our counter-terrorist efforts leave Nidal Hasan in position to actually deploy into a combat theater if the FBI knew or even suspected these attempts to contact the enemy?
It sounds a lot like the law-enforcement model of counterterrorism that failed us so spectacularly from 1993 to 2001.
Update (AP): In case you missed WaPo's story on Hasan over the weekend, note what he told a neighbor on the morning of the murders after handing her a Koran: "I'm going to do good work for God."
Update (Ed): Verum Serum has more on al-Awliki and Hasan's "heroism".
Update II: Joe Gandelman asks the right question: "If American intelligence agencies missed the signs pre-911 and they missed a big hint pre-Foot Hood, exactly what are they missing now, as you read this post?" I would also add this: "And why are they missing it?" Because in this case, it seems as though political correctness over the feelings of Muslims has played a part in hamstringing action — and that could be the case with other potential threats, too.
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- Bloodthirsty Liberal » Hasan of a Bitch
- Ft Hood Shooter Frequented Local Strip Club UPDATE: al Qaeda link and what about that Al-Awlaki? « Mcnorman's Weblog
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- Reformed Chicks Blabbing
- Ft. Hood Oxymoron of the Day: Army Intelligence « DBKP FLASH Headline News
- Cold Fury » BREAKING: Obama/Biden Junta Spies on Innocent Qaeda-American Maj. Hasan! What's next? He's the 21st hi-jacker?
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Discussion in 'November 2010' started by roscoe36, Oct 19, 2010.
Oh snap! Whatever. What have the Knicks done that's so great?
That's why I question his conditioning. Stuckey is BIG and carries a lot of weight on that frame (I still think he could stand to play at even smaller weight), he comes out like gang busters in the 1st qtr and then fades out as the game goes along and almost completely disappears (on both ends) in the fourth. If Stuckey could do in the 4th qtr what he does in the 1st qtr he'd be special. Small ball didn't hurt us, those rebounds were gotten by their GUARDS, Ben Gordon at the 2 hurt us. I knew when he came in it was over. T-Mac didn't score down the stretch but he was always in defensive position, challenged shots around the rim and rebounded well. Rip, Tay, and Gordon are all small-small ball players. Rip/Tay upfront equal disaster (especially with under sized SG in Ben Gordon), T-Mac/Tay upfront ain't too shabby, especially with a 6'7" SG and a 6'5" PG.
How can we be short bigs when Monroe played short minutes, and JMAX half of that again? It ain't a shortage of bigs just because your coach does not play them. Change coaches, and all the sudden there is no problem. We have two centers, JMAX and Ben Wallace. What a concept to simply play one at a timre - always keeping a center in the game? Kuester has not tried this? We have a pair of power forwards - CV and Monroe, who really ain't that bad - but again, keeping one in the game at all times - has not been tried by this coach. No common sense is coming from this coach.
A 2nd unit of Rip, TMAC, Tay, CV, and Ben Wallace might work better. Similar to what you propose - but 1) Ben Wallace gives you strength at the basket. 2)Tay helps TMAC with the ball handling chores. 3) Rip is a better guard of points than Gordon. 4)Ben Wallace is getting older - good time to put him off the bench And this leaves, for our starters: Stuckey, Gordon, Daye, Monroe, JMAX Now, Stuckey, Gordon, Daye, and JMAX have all started games for us, and there is a lot of popularity in the idea of starting Monroe, our 7th pick from this last draft. So the idea is not that farfetched really. Only thing is, it would work - and that is something Kuester seems to be alergic to. Gee, going younger, looking to the future, and having a starting unit that can fast break. What a concept. JMAX provides the strength inside, Monroe the rebounding. Gordon does the outside shooting to spread their defense. Daye adds some rebounding, and another 3 point shooter to spread their defense. JMAX and Monroe give some inside post presence that Stuckey can work off of. A young, balanced starting unit - and one heck of a 2nd unit. I like it. Now, someone tell Kuester there is a way to balance his rotation, always having all the bases covered.
Only the third game I've seen this season, but nearly the third win I've seen. It was a fun game to watch until the end. Prince - went gonzo yesterday, but has quietly been having a pretty decent season. Stuckey - went all super collider in the fourth quarter and got blocked again and again. Bynum - please, sit him, and put T-Mac or Gordon at the point while Stuckey is out. Diappearing guards - how can Ben Gordon play over eleven minutes of basketball in crunch time and only get one shot? And Rip gets to shoot one for eight in the same time? Amar'e - Certainly the best game I've ever seen him play. Three Defense - sucked. Ben jumping out on the point guard, which he did over and over, led to Amar'e rolling down the lane and a pass out to an open three shooter nearly every time. Trapping the point guard outside the three point circle against a team that can rain threes seems kind of dumb.
I am disgusted and dispirited with this team and it's relentless, hell-bent pursuit of mediocrity and .500 ball. It took me until 8PM MT to turn the game on. Sitting around talking about TMac and his 15 minutes of brilliance misses the point. He is useless here unless he is going to have some type of Barry Bonds sustained resurgence in his 30's. Daye got 7minutes!!! I can't wait until a few more years pass and they're still waiting for him to either put on 40 lbs or figure out what position he should play. Maybe we'll luck out and it will be both. I am not concerned that Stuckey disappeared or made bad decisions during crunch time. That happens almost every game. What bothered me was that it seemed like Stuckey was afraid to do anything after his miscues. Raymond Felton outrebounded Stuckey. 16 minutes for the new and improved, inspired, hard working, "relative bargain" Charles Garbage. I thought it was unfair of NY to play Stoudamire so much instead of some half-dead stiff so that CCG had to sit on the bench. He looked like a little kid swinging at a piñata the few times he tried to guard him. Shooting aside, Monroe looked pretty good. It is nice to see him get some run. His lack of athleticism may be an issue, but you could say the same thing about Noah his rookie year.
Sorry brother man...I've been wanting to get one in, but having a hard time fitting it in the schedule as of late. Especially cause I'd like to get one done where people actually have some forewarning and can participate. I am made of FAIL this season.
Folks there is no scapegoat for this game, we simply lost. Coming in to the game we already knew that there was nobody on our roster who could check Amare, so he was going to get his. It's in games like this that you really appreciate what Sheed used to do, hold great players to their averages and make them work to get it. When Amare would hit 20+ pts on Sheed we would get upset, little did we know that without Sheed (and Dyess) we'd get torched for 40 by guys like Dirk and Amare. NY executed a play that we simply could not stop, we had to focus on Felton and Amare and they did a great job of swinging the ball, they hit shots, we didn't. NY is really what we aspire to be and we pretty much hung tough with them, we're not that far from being a bad playoff team. And we need to make the playoffs so guys like CV, GM, and Austin Daye can get a clue for what it's like, and play against tough competition for 4 (5 if we're lucky) straight games, so they get a clue on how to workout in the off season. As I watched the game it occured to me that Bynum was a mistake. Have you noticed that Bynum has not played well since the arrival of Gordo and CV? And when he does play well it's at the expense of their games. The idea of having T-Mac at the point needs to become a reality, because he seems to be the only one who knows that he needs to run the offense to get Ben Gordon shots, Bynum simply can't do it. Also the coaching staff needs to really focus on getting Gordon more shots. When he comes of a curl screen, if he's not WIDE OPEN, there should be a big setting a ball screen IMMEDIATELY for a pick and roll/pop play, it ain't rocket science. Amazing how Chi can get more shots for Kyle Korver than we can for Ben Gordon.
Its almost as if Q stubbornly wants to insist that Prince and Daye can play the 4 and Rip can play the 3. Part of our problem also seems to be a simple lack of any consistancy in the rotations - no team chemistry. I don't know what happened to Bynum since his rookie year. Last year he was hurt but this year he just seems to have lost it. Shoot 1st PG anyway. I would love to see more of Tmac at the point.
Bottom line is we could out bomb any body at home but don't try. I say we take 40 bombs at home, let the rebounds land where thet may.
We're one of the best teams in the league in 3pt FG%, yet we don't take very many of them and we have 3 guys who shoot a high enough percentage that these should be shots we try and get in our offense......Oh wait, the guy shooting 50% doesn't play anymore ........ ain't that a BLEEP!
He was trying to do what alot of posters on the board were screaming for him to do..."be a pass first point guard and not a shooting guard" the only problem with that equation is that his recipients werent hitting their shots
I think there's a distinct difference between being a "pass first point guard" and just being out and out passive. I agree with Ernie, he seemed afraid to do anything after his miscues in the 4th quarter. From then on, it was just the usual, pass to Hamilton/Prince and get out of the way crap. He wasn't even cutting hard to the basket off the ball like was doing with such great success earlier in the game.
On an off topic note, I'm digging the new beard that Rodney is growing out. He looks rugged.
I'm with you Thee. Bombs away! Shake things up a bunch and start launching from deep... be back quick on D.
Usually when you are shooting a high percentage from 3-point land, it is because you are taking good shots, within the flow of the offense. When you start forcing threes, that percentage will come crashing down in a hurry.
Tracy McGrady looks strong on court for Pistons | detnews.com | The Detroit News Looks like TMac is implying that he wants to be the PG in that 2nd unit. TMac at the point with BG and CV spotting up for 3s. Hell, put Daye at SF and we have 3 players spotting up for 3. If BG shoots the 3, both CV and Daye should be running into the paint and grab some rebounds in case BG missed them.
Please, please, please.
This sounds like "in the box" thinking... the kind of thing that "true", and that "works". The Pistons should add a half-court shooter and really open up the offense.
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Bought a theft recover 2005 Impreza RS. Lots of minor stuff, including a demolished ignition switch. I could and did start it with a screwdriver to move it around the garage and such.
I bought a used ignition switch off ebay, and the seller ensured me it was from a manual.
The switch starts the car, but I have some very strange stuff happening.
As soon as you connect the battery, the parking lights on all four corners come on.
When you turn the key into start position, just before you turn to start it, the fan goes on an off repeatedly and you hear various relays clicking on and off.
So, my question is...
Could it be a bad switch in general?
Could it be from an auto and is not compatible with the manual car?
This will be my step son's first car so I am trying to get the body work done and on the road as soon as possible so he can drive the job I made him get


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Competitive cooking shows are still popping up like a break-out after too much chocolate but, judging by ratings, we can't get enough. As well as feeding cravings for scallop ravioli and chef spouses, these shows feed off a little light voyeurism. Like other reality-TV stalwarts such as The Bachelor, they're all about getting emotionally involved with the characters (oops, contestants). The elimination-style format builds suspense as we gun for our favourite, desperately hope their macaron tower won't topple, and watch the tears of joy and disappointment flow.
Unfortunately, many such shows are all exaggerated drama, breathless hyperbole, hackneyed cooking metaphors, gyrating cameras and over-editing. But Aussie import My Kitchen Rules keeps all that to a minimum and focuses on its talent.
In the first episode of the fourth season, which premieres tomorrow on TV2, 12 pairs of friends, couples or relatives are welcomed to the studio and divided into two groups. In each group, the six teams (each representing one Australian state) will take turns cooking for the judges and the other teams, who all rate their competitors' meals.
This is daft. Given the lowest-scoring team will eventually be eliminated, what right-minded contestant would award their competitors anything more than a 7 out of 10? Why not leave it to the judges?
Fifty-something "childhood sweethearts" Kerrie and Craig are first up. They transform their Melbourne home into a 1970-style instant restaurant, then serve up a three-course meal that made me crave something other than packet pasta for dinner.
It's the couple's likeability, wit, banter and candour that make this episode, with a little help from their 70s wigs, lava lamps, mirror balls and vinyl menus. And it's highly amusing when Kerrie proves that Craig's responsible for the missing gelatin.
As for their guests, some are all talk, others look like quiet achievers. The giggly girls who flirt with the hosts, don't like most foods, brag they're going to win and flutter their false eyelashes are surely only here to be on TV. And the snotty student impersonating a food encyclopaedia is going to piss off the others. Unfortunately, there's no Kiwi team as there was in Season 3, making it harder for NZ viewers to get into the "state-versus-state, plate-versus-plate" rivalry.
Call it Kiwi bias, but I slightly prefer New Zealand's version, the hit reality show MasterChef, whose fourth season premiered last Sunday. By now, MasterChef NZ knows what viewers want - and gives it to them.
In last week's audition episode, hopefuls had 60 minutes to prepare and present a dish to the three judges, needing two yeses to don one of 24 MasterChef aprons. As ever, we saw the best and worst efforts, and the ones where people cried or acted cocky.
The producers must have high-fived each other when they realised their Fred Dagg-esque farmer had fallen asleep waiting for his audition, then admitted to Simon Gault that he'd barely slept after an all-nighter at the casino.
This guy's what they call good talent - and I'm not talking about his cooking. We'll see more of him in tonight's episode, when a third of the 24 contestants go home after two sudden-death challenges judged by top Auckland chefs, who prove tough taskmasters. Oh, and Simon Gault pronounces one dish MasterChef's worst ever.
Although Gault's usually pegged as the softie, I like the way all three judges resist conforming to good-cop, bad-cop stereotypes and strike that tricky balance of being blunt but not gratuitously mean. They don't write off contestants immediately if they see something in them, like the chump who auditioned for a cooking show with a plate of uncooked snacks. He got another chance and an apron, whereas MasterChef US' Gordon Ramsay would have chased him out with a meat-axe.
Annoyingly, though, the judges keep pontificating about what they're looking for this season, as though it's fundamentally different this time round. Come on, guys: you're looking for the best cook. Presumably there's pressure to differentiate and talk up each season, like a restaurant that tinkers with popular recipes, but ultimately this is window-dressing. The tried-and-true MasterChef formula remains the same.
Episode 2 of MasterChef screens tonight on TV One at 7.30pm. My Kitchen Rules premieres tomorrow on TV2 at 7.30pm.


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The deep water horizon isn't owned by BP it's owned, staffed and operated by Transocean. BP only owned/possessed the exploration rights of the drilling site. How is BP liable to criminal penalties totaling billions of dollars if the rig wasn't under their direct control? I know they have the bigger pockets but am I missing something?
The Justice Department opened a criminal investigation of the spill. The only person facing charges so far is former BP engineer Kurt Mix, who was arrested in Texas in April on obstruction of justice charges. Mix is accused of deleting text messages about the company's response to the spill, not what happened before the explosion.
Just don't know if it rises to the level of 11 manslaughter counts
I'd have to go pull out some notes and documents to refresh my memory as to the details, but I sat in a symposium on marine liability and the Deepwater Horizon incident not long after it occurred and I remember being fricking appalled at the gross disregard for safety procedures in the days leading up to the disaster. They were behind schedule and that trumped everything apparently. And it ended up biting them in the arse and killing 11 people. fricking awful. No excuses.
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Discussion in 'Member Introductions' started by RedneckGirl, May 10, 2010.
Hello everyone found this site today. I am from Indiana I have a 1995 Chevy 1500 4X4 350.
Hi, and welcome to the site!:glasses: Great looking truck!
Welcome to the site!!
Welcome to the GMTruckClub!
:sign0016: Looks like you're having fun.
Howdy and welcome...
Look forward to your mudding pics.
Welcome aboard.. Luckly you have a short wheel base to get mine to look like that i have to flip it over...
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Adopted 3/14/78; amended 12/14/99; repealed 4/25/06
A. Section 48 of Chapter II of the Charter of the City of Royal Oak, Michigan as adopted on November 6,
1928, and as amended from time to time, authorizes the existence of the Royal Oak Public Library Board
(the "Board").
B. City Ordinance No. 215 grants to the Board authority to set such reasonable rules and regulations for the
use of the Royal Oak Public Library (the "Library") by all residents of the City of Royal Oak as may be
necessary. In addition, the ordinance imposes a duty on the Board to govern the Library, and to care for the
books, magazines, furniture, equipment and other personal property contained in the Library.
C. Intentionally deleted.


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Black Forest infrastructure still needs work, even though it held up in heavy rain
EL PASO COUNTY, Colo. - Drains, bridges and culverts withstood last week's heavy rain in Black Forest, but it doesn't change the fact that many of them still need work said an El Paso County engineer Wednesday.
El Paso County engineers worried they'd have they work cut out for them in Black Forest after the latest storms. This time, Black Forest wasn't hit hard.
There are a number of areas that need to be fixed so they'll hold up in future storms. As many as 200 bridges and culverts and 38 miles of drains may need to be repaired.
They've been top of mind since the Black Forest Fire. June's wildfire burned in the Kettle Creek watershed. Many culverts and bridges in the area weren't built to handle flash flooding in the fire's wake. Casey Lane's culvert collapsed in a flash flood Aug. 4. It took out the culvert and left a massive hole in the road.
Shoup road's culvert needs to be upsized because during heavy rains water washes over the road. Brackin said it's a matter of time before the road and culvert washes out with the rain.
It rained 5 inches in some areas of Black Forest from Wednesday and Monday. El Paso County Engineer André Brackin said it was a recipe for disaster.
"We were very concerned about what the storm was doing to Black Forest," said Brackin.
The rain came, but everything stayed in place.
"We were very happy when we found out basically we had not lost that much on our projects as there were no new problems," said Brackin.
They held up this time, but it doesn't change the fact that many of these bridges, culverts and drains still need work.
"With the kind of intensity that is a potential for storms around here, you could have that failure still occur," said Brackin.
The county wanted to start repair work on Shoup Road's culvert this month. Brackin said the start date has been pushed back to later this fall because of the complexity of the project.


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LiverKick.com Heavyweight Rankings: May 2011
- Published in Rankings
|Semmy Schilt
|Badr Hari
|Peter Aerts
|Gokhan Saki
|Hesdy Gerges
|Daniel Ghita
|Tyrone Spong
|Ewerton Teixeira
|Jerome Le Banner
Welcome back to the LiverKick.com rankings. These rankings are an attempt to break down the top 10 fighters in three different weight classes - Heavyweight, for fighters above the 85kg limit, Middleweight, for fighters at the 70-72.5kg limit, and Light Heavyweight, for fighters at the 77-84kg limit. Our rankings are based on in-ring accomplishments and recent wins and loses. We hope they reflect where these fighters currently stand, although we recognize that all rankings are inherently subjective.
May 2011
We've decided to take a different approach to the rankings, in the past Fraser Coffeen handled them, but as many are aware, Fraser has since had to step down from his responsibilities at LiverKick.com and has since moved on to other ventures. Our Top 10 list a while back moved on to being a top 25 to reflect a uniformity with our then home of SBNation. We've decided to move back to only including the Top 10 and to opt for the inclusion of Light Heavyweight (77kg - 84kg) to reflect the depth of talent in that weight class.
Former #1 Alistair Overeem has been removed from the rankings after some intense discussion, we've come to the conclusion that as long as he is contracted with Zuffa the chances of Overeem fighting in another organization as a kickboxer has decreased to about zero. We are sad to see a talent such as his be confined to only Mixed Martial Arts but will continue to cheer him on.
This means that there was a lot of reshuffling to the weight classes for them to make sense, as with K-1's silence and a sincere doubt that there will be a K-1 World Heavyweight Grand Prix this year, we take a more global look at the weight classes and rankings for them. It is without dispute that the most accomplished kickboxer at Heavyweight/Super Heavyweight, and the man to beat is Semmy Schilt. Schilt does hold a WGP loss to Peter Aerts in 2011 and a loss to Badr Hari in 2010, but outside of that his record is pristine.
After a year of inaction, Badr Hari returned to the ring against a less-than-game Gregory Tony. Tony's performance might have been shameful, but Hari was in good shape, kept his cool and there is a promise of a bout with Tyrone Spong or Daniel Ghita on the horizon for It's Showtime in the Fall. For his recent accomplishments, though, without a doubt Badr Hari is one of the men to beat and secures his spot at #2. Mr. K1, Peter Aerts shocked the world taking it to Sem Schilt in December, making the Finals of the Heavyweight GP. Aerts had stated before the Grand Prix that it would be his last and he is contemplating retirement, so under those circumstances and for his recent accomplishments, the #3 slot is a great fit for him.
#4 Gokhan Saki is in action at the end of this month in the finals of the Glory World Series Heavyweight Tournament, where he'll take on Brice Guidon. While the tournament was not the toughest road for Saki, a win in it would further cement his spot in the top 5. We hope to see him against other top 5 competition soon. #5 Hesdy Gerges has once again been released from police custody and will be in action this weekend at It's Showtime. His bout with #6 Daniel Ghita was the biggest Heavyweight fight of the year so far and his win cemented his spot above Ghita. #7 Tyrone Spong is where things get messy, Spong holds a victory over #8 Kyotaro last year, who himself is largely inactive without K-1, but has a loss to #10 Jerome Le Banner. Le Banner of course has his forfeit loss to Kyotaro but little else outside of the Spong win recently. #9 Ewerton Teixeira is another fighter who only fights for K-1 so is in a state of limbo for the time being.


text: I know it works very well when varroa comes in contact but anyone test for tracheal mites after sucrocide treatment? The sucrocide could probably give the same use as oxalic when there is no brood. Its fairly cheap though not cheaper than oxalic... could be used on commercial basis to shock em mites.


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How far should ISP's be responsible
To start off, how far should web/server hosts be responsible for what they are hosting? Should they be held accountable for the illigal things that come from what they host (P2P, (child) pornagraphy (or underage viewers), zombie servers (to carry out hacks/DDoS)?
IMO, I believe that they should be responsible for what they host. I think that starting to crack down at that level would help at getting rid of some illigal activities that occur on the internet.
Now the second part, and the longer of the two. How much should a ISP be responsible for what their users do, and how far should they be allowed to go to stop any type of illigal activities?
This is my main focus of the thread. To start out, I think that ISP's should be more responsible for what their users are doing, but at the same time I think that they are not allowed to really watch what they do. I remember less than a year ago that their was a bill in Congress that allowed ISP's to watch what websites people visited, and their was a big argument about invasion of privacy that went into why it wasn't passed (please correct me on this if I am wrong.... I just got into work, and am still tired).
I also believe that with the ISP's being able to watch the websites, I think that they should be allowed to watch any traffic that is passed through their network. More descriptively, ports, host and destnation addresses, any NAT services on either side, and application that is being used. This would help monitor traffic for illigal uses (hacking, P2P, although not all P2P is illigal).
I think that the ISP's could, and should, be a first line of defense against illigal uses of the internet. And like i said in the beginning, I would like to hear everyones opinion on this subject.


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* Connect your family with local kids on visits to schools and Masai villages.
* See wildlife up-close, touching snakes, birds and helping with farm life in the Highlands not to mention on safari!
* Feel the pulse of Africa as you trade goods at the local market or play a pick-up soccer game
* Read the stories of the bush as you follow tracks & signs with your guide
Experience the magnificent wildlife in Tanzania's richest game parks and interact with tribal cultures on this african safari designed for families with teenagers and private groups.
Wildlife Wanderings
- 8 Day National Park Safari - (Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater & Lake Manyara)
Meet at arrival point and transfer to your lodge for pre-safari briefing. KARAMA LODGE (Dinner)
After a delicious breakfast at the lodge, we set off in the direction of Tarangire National Park via the colour craft markets of East Africa. We set off game driving for the afternoon. We return to our private camp on sunset which provides us with a classic bush experience that ensures intimacy. MARAMBOI LUXURY CAMP
An optional early morning walk starts our adventure today. Tarangire is home to an array of wildlife and this unique opportu- nity to view animal behaviours and natural habitats is exclusive tour camp. We return for a hearty breakfast before heading off to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Entering the Crater for an afternoon Game Drive is a spectacular way to end of day, and return to the crater rim for overnight NGORONGORO SOPA LODGE
We depart after breakfast to the endless plains of the Serengeti. Upon entering the Serengeti, we are able to game drive all the way to our mobile camp that is situated in the prime game areas (location depending on season). We enjoy an excellent lunch followed by an afternoon game drive. NASIKIA LUXURY MOBILE CAMP
We enjoy this unspoilt area where the viewing of the Wildebeest Migration is second to none for most of the year. Our camp has the intimacy as it is one of the only tented camps in the area and so habitats are natural. There are resident cats and herd animals for us to observe. NASIKIA LUXURY MOBILE CAMP
We enjoy an early morning game drive, followed by lunch and resting before setting off for an afternoon of wildlife viewing as the sunsets. NASIKIA LUXURY MOBILE CAMP
We transfer out of the Serengeti, passing through Oldupai Gorge. We enjoy lunch and a view of the archaeological sites (and visit the museum) where early human tools and fossils have been found. Transfer onto crater highlands for over- night.
We transfer into Lake Manyara for morning game drive and lunch, a classic safari picnic, and enjoy our final glimpse of the great wilds of the Northern Tanzania. Lake Manyara offers an insight into the Great Rift Valley system and the adaptation of many herd animals and magnificent birdlife. We continue Esilalei Maasai Village to explore the area and our school project. You are then transferred to Arusha and your departure point or lodge (Breakfast, lunch)
Some of the safari accommodations are in modern, deluxe lodges in harmony with the environment and constructed using local materials. In the Serengeti, you'll stay at a mobile tented camp; immersing you with the sights and sounds of Africa. Food at all locations is well prepared, with local flair. We enjoy early mornings and late afternoons, for the best wildlife photography and light. Long days in the field and excellent driver-guides who are sensitive to the needs of photography/migration groups. We do not restrict ourselves to a rigid schedule of times, but instead allow the wildlife and environment to dictate our routine (within the regulations of the national parks and issued permits).
Price Includes
All meals, accommodations, park & camping fees, all local travel including transfers, all activities listed, all bottled drinking water, driver/guides and vehicles, temporary membership to the Intensive Care Air Ambulance.
Not Included
International airfare, air taxes and foreign airport taxes, excess baggage charges, passport or visa fees, beverages (except drinking water), gratuities for driver guides and camp staff.
Please Note
For those who wish to extend their stay, we can arrange extensions to this trip (For example, Zanzibar). Contact us to discuss various options. It is important to contact us very early if you wish to extend- Tanzania has become a very popular destination and lodges on the mainland and coastal islands can fill up quickly.
On our trips we generally have the smallest groups size in the industry (overall avg. of around 8 travelers) but on this trip we have arranged for a slightly larger group to take advantage of several safari vehicles, all in radio contact, searching for the migration. This gives us a better chance to witness this spectacular event.
Junior (12 - 14, sharing in a double and Child (11 & under, sharing in a triple).
Maasai Wanderings offers Custom Departures for this adventure
Bed, Dinner and Breakfast are all included.
All payments are to made, including the initial deposit, by direct deposit into the company bank account. Upon confirmation of funds being received, you will be issued with a receipt and re-issued with the updated itinerary invoice for your referral.
All hotels, lodges and luxury camps used in itineraries are of 4-5 star quality. The best available accommodation is chosen at the time of booking that suits the purpose of the itinerary. In smaller villages, we use the best accommodation available. All accommodations have private amenities, swimming pools and restaurants/bars; among other facilities.
The campsites indicated in the Mt Kilimanjaro itineraries are subject to change based on, at times, unpredictable mountain weather conditions.
* All excursions, transfers, entrance fees, camping fees and meals as indicated in the itinerary
* Experienced English-speaking professional guides
* Good quality accommodation.
* All meals not specified in the itineraries
* Items of a personal nature
* Tips and gratuities
* Optional activities not previously reserved with prior payment
Booking Information & Conditions
For a reservation to be held on any itinerary, a deposit of US$500 per person per itinerary is required. The balances of payments are due 60 days prior to arrival in Tanzania.
All travelers receive pre-trip information, complete itinerary and on-demand pre-travel advice, via email directly with our offices for any last minute or personal queries. In the event of a particular accommodation being unavailable upon booking, accommodation of a similar or higher standard will be substituted.
Late Sign Up
In the event that you make a booking with MW after arriving in Tanzania, we will endeavour to carry out your requests but you should understand the difficulties of late bookings in regards to obtaining accommodation, transport and safari guides without reasonable notice.
Cancellation and Refunds
If you must cancel before departure, money will be returned less the cancellation fees charged by MW plus any additional non-refundable cancellation fees and payments already advanced to hotels and local operators.
Cancellation fees are as follows:
* 60 days or more prior to departure US$100
* 15-59 days prior to departure US$300
* 14 days or less prior to departure 100% of safari costs
No partial refunds are possible for any unused portion of your safari. Departure is defined as the date of departure for your safari. Cancellation fees are based on the date your written notification is received my MW.
If transportation or other services are cancelled by MW, all sums paid to MW for services not performed will be refunded within 30 days of receiving funds from the vendor of the travel service.
Medical Requirements
Good physical and mental health is essential for these active, outdoor safaris. You may be travelling in rugged areas, away from immediate medical attention and facilities. Good physical condition is strongly recommended as preparation for all trips, especially those involving trekking. See Health Information section. By forwarding the deposit, the passenger certifies that that he/she does not have any physical or other condition of disability that would create a hazard for him/herself or fellow passengers. It is essential that any passenger with a medical condition requiring regular treatment or which may be affected by vigorous activity, high altitude, heat, cold, or other natural phenomenon, or particular foods, notifies MW and the trip leaders, in writing in advance of travel. MW assumed no liability for medical care or for special dietary requirements. Participants may be requested to provide a Doctor's Statement of good health. The judgments of MW or the local operators or guides, shall make the ultimate decision for determining suitability of passengers for the ensuing activity.
MW are able to offer temporary membership to the Flying Doctor's Society of Africa for between US$15-US$50, depending on length of itinerary. Please ask for more details. This membership allows for air rescue transportation to medical facilities in the event of an emergency.
Price quoted includes:
* All transport - 4WD Land Rovers or Toyota Land Cruisers - all clients having a window seat.
* Accommodation as detailed
* 1 x 1.5L bottle water per person per day
* Services of various local guides
* All National Park entrance and camp site fees.
* All food - breakfasts, packed lunches and evening meals
Prices quoted exclude:
* International flights
* Travel and personal accident insurance
* Visa, passport, vaccinations, medicines
* Tips
* Expenditure on alcoholic drinks, souvenirs, personal items
* Optional excursions/activities not detailed in itinerary
* Any additional services requested
AIRPLANES There is a 33 lb. per person baggage weight limit for transportation on domestic airline flights within your itinerary. The airline operator enforces this limitation on your checked baggage for safety reasons. Please keep your luggage at 33lbs or less. Carry-on space is not available, so all of your luggage will be counted as check luggage. Cameras or binoculars that are around your neck or in a small bag will not be included in this limit. Maasai Wanderings, lodges, hotels and other suppliers of your travel services will make every effort to conduct this trip as described in the itinerary. It is however possible that due to transportation schedule changes, weather, delays and unforeseeable acts of God, humans or nature, this itinerary may vary from what is described. Participants must assume all risks whether identified in advance or unforeseen. All optional activities are at your own risk. Extra costs due to unexpected changes in your itinerary for reasons beyond our control are not included. We highly recommend purchasing travelers insurance for trip delay, trip cancellation, baggage, accident or sickness.
MW's representatives are available for assistance at any time during your trip. If preferred hotels are not available, every attempt will be made to reserve alternative accommodations of similar quality. (If upgrade is necessary, higher rates may apply.) All information and services provided are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
MW are able to offer temporary membership to the Flying Doctor's Society of Africa for between US$15-US$50, depending on length of itinerary. Please ask for more details. This membership allows for air rescue transportation to medical facilities in the event of an emergency.
|Map Legend
|Maasai Wanderings Ltd
Arusha, Tanzania


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The welcome sign is ready to hang and makes the perfect addition to the one foot quilt blocks. They are made from the same thickness of steel and matching colors as the quilt blocks. This heavy-weight steel sign is available powder-coated in black, red or navy blue. The durable powder-coated finish will last many years with no maintenance.
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Susan Blackmore:
Memes and "temes"
Susan Blackmore studies memes: ideas that replicate themselves from brain to brain like a virus. She makes a bold new argument: Humanity has spawned a new kind of meme, the teme, which spreads itself via technology — and invents ways to keep itself alive
This talk was presented at an official TED conference, and was featured by our editors on the home page.
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FRC Laptop Messenger/Backpack
Whether at school or work, show your support for faith, family and freedom! Keep your laptop and accessories organized with this sturdy professional black bag.
The large zippered main compartment can hold up to a 15" laptop, accessories and documents, with a business organizer hidden securely under the flap and a side mesh pocket for your beverage bottle on the go. You can easily convert the bag by detaching the adjustable shoulder strap, and instead use the backpack straps hidden in the zippered rear pocket.
Dimensions: 16.5" H x 14" W x 4.75" L


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The NRL has revealed a new logo at a press conference this afternoon which outlined the competition's five-year strategic plan.
The logo is green and gold, which make irk Warriors fans, and includes the Southern Cross constellation which features on the Australian flag.
Critics have pointed out how closely the logo resembles Cricket Australia's logo which is also green and gold and features the Southern Cross.
The five-year plan includes a formal review of expansion options after the 2014 season which could see the NRL increase from its current format of 16 teams.
Other forecasts over the next five years include an average crowd attendance to increase to 20,000, club membership to reach 400,000 and 84% of all NRL players to be engaged in education or career training.
- nzherald.co.nz


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Looking for some help on temporarily converting a 10 round Saiga 7.62x39 magazine to a 5 round magazine. I had a person from the Nebraska game dept. tell me to pin it. What the heck does that involve? I was going to put a piece of wood of some type at the bottom of the mag to take up space. I would like to make it a temporary change so I can use it as a 10 round mag later. I know there is a 5 round mag but looking to save a little money and thought I could have the best of both worlds this way.
My Questions:
1. Does anyone know how much space I would need to take up for 5 cartridges? I know I could experiment but thought maybe someone has already done this.
2. Would pinning be better/ easier that a block of wood?
3. What does pinning involve.
Thanks in advance.


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EPSCoR Research Infrastructure Improvement Program Track-1: (RII Track-1)CONTACTS
|Sean C. Kennan
|(703) 292-7575
|Robert Coyne
|(703) 292-2257
|Timothy M. VanReken
|(703) 292-7378
|Uma D. Venkateswaran
|(703) 292-7732
|C. Susan Weiler
|(703) 292-7860
Solicitation 16-557
Important Information for Proposers
A revised version of the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG) (NSF 17-1), is effective for proposals submitted, or due, on or after January 30, 2017. Please be advised that, depending on the specified due date, the guidelines contained in NSF 17-1 may apply to proposals submitted in response to this funding opportunity.
The Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) is designed to fulfill the mandate of the National Science Foundation (NSF) to promote scientific progress nationwide. A jurisdiction is eligible to participate in EPSCoR programs if its level of NSF research support is equal to or less than 0.75 percent of the total NSF research and related activities budget for the most recent three year period (see eligibility table). Through this program, NSF establishes partnerships with government, higher education, and industry that are designed to effect sustainable improvements in a jurisdiction's research infrastructure, Research and Development (R&D) capacity, and hence, its R&D competitiveness.
Research Infrastructure Improvement Track-1 (RII Track-1) awards provide up to $20 million total for 5 years to support physical, human, and cyber infrastructure improvements in research areas selected by the jurisdiction's EPSCoR steering committee as having the best potential to improve future R&D competitiveness of the jurisdiction.
What Has Been Funded (Recent Awards Made Through This Program, with Abstracts)
Map of Recent Awards Made Through This Program


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Trading Tranquility on Captivating Cape May
Cape May Resorts Red Cottage • Cape May, NJ
Escape Kit
- A One-Night Stay for Two in a Deluxe Room, Sundays through Thursdays ($85) or Fridays and Saturdays ($155)
- Daily Continental Breakfast
- $30 Credit at Blue Pig Tavern
- 15% Off Two Drinks in the Ebbitt Room Lounge
- 15% Off On Spa Service
- Daily Valet Parking
Establishing transatlantic trade so tuckered out the Dutch merchants that the smart ones decided to make relaxation their business and found America's first ocean resort in breathtaking Cape May, New Jersey. Kick up your clogs and chart a course toward cool ocean breezes with an Escape to the Cape May Resorts Red Cottage.
Set sail with a one-night stay in a deluxe room, Sundays through Thursdays ($85) or Fridays and Saturdays ($155). The included valet will negotiate parking while you inspect your new holdings: plush, soft appointments with all-cotton Belgian linens and flat-screen TVs. The sound of nearby waves purveys a wealth of peace all day.
Sanction breakfast in bed served on a sliver platter with homemade muffins and fresh fruit for two. Sell stress down the seashore as you exchange greetings with dolphins and horseshoe crabs and liquidate your languor with 15 percent off a hot towel and cool aloe massage or any other single spa treatment at Sea Spa.
Discover the town via rental bike or Cape May Carriage. Corner the markets on historic Jackson Street, replete with shops, antiques, galleries, arcades, taffy, and custard. Then, speculate on herons and the world's largest colony of laughing gulls at Skimmer Salt Marsh. If you invest in the 199 stairs at Cape May Lighthouse, you'll profit from outstanding views of the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay.
You'll likely harbor hunger after all that taxing relaxing. Merge, then, with mouthwatering meals at Blue Pig Tavern, where you'll cash in a $30 dining credit. After oysters, prime rib, and vegetable lasagna, conclude the business of basking in the serene oceanside atmosphere with 15 percent off two drinks at the Ebbitt Room lounge.
Make a firm offer for this Escape to a Dutch colonial détente today— and go duty-free at a price that won't monopolize your monies.
"Best trip I ever had. The building was beautiful, the rooms were spotless, and the beds were to die for—pillows so comfy I had to buy one. The staff was amazing and went above and beyond any expectation I had or will ever have of a hotel staff."-- 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 two per purchaser, up to two additional as gifts
- Up to two vouchers can be combined to extend stay
- Valid for travel until May 24, 2012
- Reservations required and subject to availability; must be made by April 26, 2012
- Not valid on group or existing reservations
- Merchant cancellation/re-scheduling policy applies; voucher subject to forfeiture
- All room types available; voucher valid for best available room at time of booking
- Saturday night reservations require a two-night stay
- Taxes are not included and will be collected at redemption
- All deal components must be redeemed during one stay
- Other conditions apply • PAID AND PROMOTIONAL VALUES EXPIRES ON May 24, 2012 • PAID VALUE DOES NOT EXPIRE • PAID VALUE EXPIRES ON May 24, 2017 • PROMOTIONAL VALUE EXPIRES ON May 24, 2012 • Enjoy By May 24, 2012
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:
- 0% savings
- remaining


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By Chris Wood, Senior Analyst
A few weeks ago in these pages we ran an article titled The State of Nanotechnology. In the article, we touched on one particular technology that I'd like to delve into more deeply today. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) warrant additional discussion partly because of the sheer scope of their potential applications and partly because of recent breakthroughs that are bringing their heyday closer to reality.
Although the term "carbon nanotubes" still sounds rather futuristic, scientists have known about their existence for quite some time. Sumio Iijima is typically credited with discovering CNTs by accident in 1991, but a careful reading of the literature actually shows that Russian scientist LV Radushkevich and his collaborators reported on CNTs as early as 1952. Then, in the mid-1970s, a collaborative effort between scientists from Japan and France reported the observation of CNTs via electron microscopy. The actual discovery of CNTs came with little fanfare, however, since nobody at the time thought they could be fabricated in meaningful amounts.
Fast forward about 15 years, to when Huffman in the US and Kratschmer in Germany developed the arc evaporation method to produce macroscopic amounts of C60, a carbon molecule in the shape of a soccer ball; these are often referred to now as "buckyballs." Iijima – who was studying the surfaces of the electrodes used in the arc evaporation process – found large amounts of multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) mixed with other graphite particles. The ability to source MWCNTs was of great importance… but there was more to come.
In early 1993, both Iijima (working at NEC in Japan) and Donald Bethune (of IBM) independently isolated single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). MWCNTs are easier to produce in high volume quantities than SWCNTs, but they're less sought after because their structural imperfections tend to diminish their desirable material properties. SWCNTs are more pliable than MWCNTs, and they have unique electronic and mechanical properties which are widely useful. Thus, for the purposes of this article, when we discuss CNTs we'll mostly be referring to SWCNTs.
CNTs are an allotrope of carbon that can be thought of as a sheet of graphene (a hexagonal lattice of carbon) rolled into a seamless cylinder. They are highly flexible and very strong (100 times stronger than steel at one-sixth the weight). They also have high electrical conductivity (as high as copper) and high thermal conductivity (as high as diamond). And they can easily penetrate membranes such as cell walls – in effect acting like a needle at the cellular level.
Due to the incredible properties of CNTs, research labs and companies the world over have been promising technological breakthroughs – in fields ranging from electronics and medicine to construction and aerospace – for the past two decades.
Some of these include:
- Building transistors from CNTs to enable minimum transistor dimensions of a few nanometers, and developing techniques to manufacture integrated circuits built with nanotube transistors.
- Creating drug-delivery systems with CNTs. One idea is to fill the tubes with a mixture of drugs and water molecules, then heat up the tubes with an infrared laser to boil the water inside, and once they've reached the desired target in the body, blow them up to release the drugs; i.e., "drug grenades" if you will.
- Constructing superstrong, lightweight bridges and buildings out of CNTs instead of steel.
- Replacing silicon with a thin layer of CNTs in window-based solar-energy production for a transparent solar window.
It's true that a few applications of CNTs are commercialized today (some products containing CNTs include paint, vehicle parts, and sports equipment), but these represent bulk applications in which MWCNTs play an auxiliary role to reinforce mechanical, thermal, or electric properties. The technological revolution in products that capitalize on the unique mechanical and electric properties of SWCNTs has been slower to materialize.
The main reason that the most promising applications have not yet come to pass is the lack of reproducibility of quality CNTs. Simply by changing the bonding configuration with itself, carbon can form a large variety of isomers from the same number of atoms. And the number of these isomers increases almost exponentially with the number of carbon atoms. For example, C60 has one isomer, while C120 has about 14,000. According to Dr. Gyula Eres, from the Materials Science and Technology Division of Oak Ridge National Laboratory, "The large number of isomers leads to a non-uniform product distribution that can dramatically change in response to relatively small changes in experimental parameters that are often difficult or impossible to account for. This is why the various methods used for synthesis of CNTs produce such vastly different distributions of single wall and multi-wall CNTs along with other carbon structures that are undesirable side products of the synthesis process."
But the long-awaited CNT revolution may be just around the corner, thanks to a couple of recent improvements to the production process.
Since the early '90s, CNTs have been described as "rolled-up sheets of graphene," except they couldn't actually be made that way. Instead, they were coaxed into self-assembling using the three typical production techniques of arc discharge, laser ablation, and chemical vapor deposition. It was recently reported, however, that researchers from Harvard and the NanoScience Center of the University of Jyvaskyla in Finland have discovered a new way to make CNTs by means of twisting graphene nanoribbons. The basic idea is easily explained: simply twist the ends of a strap on a backpack and you'll understand what's going on. The new method also supposedly allows for stricter experimental control, which would permit scientists selectively to create various types of CNTs.
Just two weeks ago, another – perhaps even more important – breakthrough in the production of CNTs was announced by a group of researchers from Malaysia. The group claims to have successfully created a method of continuously producing high-quality, pure CNTs at a cost of just $15 to $35 per gram, well below current production costs of $100 to $700 per gram. According to the team, "the system is capable of producing up to 1,000 grams of carbon nanotubes a day." It should be noted that details about this new method are hard to come by, and the group's claim is difficult to substantiate. If it is true, however, it represents a giant step forward in CNT research.
In addition to novel production techniques, we've also recently seen advances in the application of CNTs in electronics. It's been common knowledge for years that scaling bulk silicon transistors will be extremely difficult (if not impossible) once we get down to about 15 nm. Intel's new chips, coming out later this week, employ the company's Ivy Bridge 22 nm technology. Thus, we've almost reached the theoretical limit of being able to scale down planar transistors. (Intel's new chips do incorporate 3D transistor technology, but that's a discussion for another day.) One possible solution to this problem is to swap silicon transistors for ones made with CNTs. The problem is that nobody knew whether CNT transistors could offer performance advantages over silicon at sub-10 nm lengths – until now.
Dr. Aaron Franklin and his team at IBM recently showed that CNTs can operate as excellent switches at molecular dimensions of only 9 nm; i.e., less than half the size of the leading silicon technology. And these transistors deliver more current and require less operating power than silicon-based ones of similar size. This is the first experiment to clearly demonstrate that silicon can be replaced with CNTs in future semiconductor technology, and the results propel such devices to the forefront of future microchip technologies.
These recent developments add to our already bullish outlook for the future prospects of CNTs. But it's important to keep in mind that like any technology, it doesn't come without risks. Some studies have shown that CNTs, especially longer ones, can pose health risks similar to asbestos' if inhaled. Other studies have shown that CNT inhalation can also suppress the immune system. Thus, their ultimate use in industry could be significantly curbed by regulation.
Nevertheless, CNTs represent a disruptive technology the likes of which comes along once every few generations (if that). We're convinced that it is poised to reshape industries, create new ones, and make savvy investors very wealthy in the process.
Exciting new technologies offer early investors the opportunity for elephant-sized profits. Attendees at this weekend's Recovery Reality Check Summit in Weston, Florida will hear about a number them from a panel of financial luminaries, including Casey Research Chief Technology Investment Strategist Alex Daley.
Not attending? Not to worry! You can catch every single piece of actionable investment advice with the Summit Audio Collection, which you can get for $100 off if you order before midnight EDT tonight.]
Bits & Bytes
Apple Makes the Best Cider… Again (Apple)
Once again, Apple blew market expectations to smithereens, on Tuesday releasing second-quarter financials that exceeded even the most optimistic expectations. Revenues jumped nearly 60%, while net income skyrocketed up 94%, year over year. The results came on the back of stunning sales of iPhones – 35.1 million units sold, up 88%; and iPads – 11.8 million units sold, up 151% from the year-ago quarter. The stock, which had been selling off of late – down 12% from its early April peak – immediately turned around, tacking on 9% on the news.
When Can Computers Not Replace Humans? (TIME)
When grading essays, for starters. The Education Testing Service (ETS) has begun using computers "in conjunction with" humans to grade the essay portion of the SAT, which college-bound high-school students must take. A human grader can only process about 30 essays an hour, ETS says, while a machine can zip through 16,000 in 20 seconds. That's a big savings, but the results leave a lot to be desired. The computer "doesn't care if you say the War of 1812 started in 1945," criticizes one reviewer. So right now, fully automated essay reading just doesn't cut it (although how much better a human might be reading a new essay every two minutes is open to question), but it seems likely that the bugs will eventually be worked out.
Microsoft and Facebook Cut a Deal (Facebook)
These days, so much of business is a matter of who owns the IP ("intellectual property"). Of all IP, one of the most important issues is patents, as companies seek to protect themselves from so-called "patent-fishing" lawsuits designed to exploit some loophole and gain an out-of-court settlement. Thus the big deal of the week was Facebook's acquisition of the right to purchase a portion of Microsoft's patent portfolio that it in turn recently picked up from AOL. Facebook ponied up a cool $550 million… in cash.
And Just for Fun (gizmag)
How about living longer by eating some buckyballs? It apparently works with rats. Those rodents who ingested the human equivalent of a tenth of a gram of buckyballs (a naturally occurring form of carbon known as C60) dissolved in olive oil nearly doubled their normal lifespan with no toxic side effects. But hey, maybe it was the olive oil. You know, that Mediterranean diet…


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Gadget Geek Guide: iPhone Photographer
If you believe that cell phone photography is a gimmicky cop out for actual camerawork, you're taking yourself too seriously.
If you believe that cell phone photography is a gimmicky cop out for actual camerawork, you're taking yourself too seriously. We are finished with the digital verses analog camera debate so let's not go through the same with digital cameras and iPhone photography. Sure, you will produce a better quality product if you use a Canon EOS 60D, but why harp on those who want to use their camera phone? It's nonsensical to complain about what is considered the proper way to produce a genuine photograph since most of the artists who are complaining about iPhone photography are using 100-200 dollar Holga Cameras, once given away as plastic toy prizes.
If we just accept phone photography as a new medium, and stop thinking about what is better than what, the technology in camera phone gadgets will no doubt improve and become more accessible and useful to the general public.
Macro Band
With such a simple design and purpose, you would think that the Easy-Macro band was already invented: It is just a rubber band equipped with a macro lens after all. What makes the Easy-Macro such a hot ticket item with photographers is its durability, sharp focus and instant access. This little iPhone gadget is one of our favorites. The only issue with this product is its thick band ends up covering the flash on an iPhone, but the close-up photographs it captures eclipses that small glitch.
Cost: $15
Fits on any cell phone
Includes card for storage in wallet
Sturdy band
Produces detailed photos
Gilf iPhone Mount
This nifty tripod mount and stand for the iPhone 4 and 4s captures the highest quality snapshots and video you may not believe your camera phone can produce. The curiously named Gilfis designed to fit any standard tripod or camera mount and is compatible with caseless iPhones. Do you know what that means? That's right, more cinematic home videos.
If the thought of mounting your iPhone without the case on makes you feel weak at the knees, an additional piece is available. The Serif secures your phone to the tripod for more extreme shots.
Cost: $20
Gilf+ package, includes the Serif, $30.
I/4" -2- thread
Made from recyclable plastic
Use to prop up iPhone for hands-free FaceTiming
The Flash Dock
This gadget may be more for your DSLR, but the merging of phone and camera got us pretty excited. The Flask Dock allows photographers to geotag and share pictures taken with their DSLR immediately through e-mail, SMS or cloud services (iCloud) with the help of their iPhone. By plugging your iPhone and Flash Dock into your camera's HotShoe socket (where you typically attach your flash gun) your phone immediately begins communicating with an EyeFi SD Card (an SD card which has WiFi capabilities) which users can upload the photos onto a third party through the EyeFi app in real time.
Cost: $34.99
Compatible with all standard tripods
Use level apps on your iPhone to adjust your cameras level functionality
iPhone flash can be used to help camera auto focus or as a soft flash
Record audio on your iPhone while filming
LiveAction Camera Remote
Though it doesn't blow any of the other products out of the water; it's nice to see that manufacturers are producing camera products that photographers have been using for decades. The Belkin LiveAction Camera Remote allows you to activate your iPhone or iPod Touch camera to snap a shot from up to 30 feet away without the use of wires. We can think of a few ways for women to use the camera remote, but those we will keep to ourselves. The remote also has a function that will trigger the video application on your iPhone as well as an app that uploads your photos and videos directly from your phone to various social media sites.
Cost: $50
Bluetooth-enabled remote shutter control
Two distinct buttons for photo and video
Detachable camera stand
Operational up to 30 ft
Intuitive app interface


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Skip to Content
If you are seeking a world-class educational experience within a vibrant, Christ-centered learning community, Cedarville is the place for you. Step up to the challenge of our arts, sciences, professional and graduate programs, and achieve more than you ever imagined. Be challenged and transformed by professors who are experts in their fields and invest their lives at Cedarville to mentor and guide students like you.
Introductory course for students planning career involvement in health and health-related professions. The students will be introduced to health careers by providing descriptions of jobs, the educational and legal requirements, the work environment, and additional information about specific fields.


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Look, she's 14 y.o., but it's not like Tara Lipinski in her 14. Polina is psychologically immature, she's a very shy girl, her coach is like mother to her. And to break their team NOW would be a mental disaster for Polina. So please leave her alone, let her develop her skills according to her mental development, let her take her time.
Last edited by bekalc; 09-01-2009 at 07:21 AM.
in regards to Polina, she isn't the only diva in the making--in fact she is NO Different than Ashley, Mirai, Rachel, Sasha, Sarah, Mao, Yu-na, Joannie, caroline, carolina --they all divas in the making. Just watch all theirj posture and how they word and skate, smile both on and off ice.
but as far as skating --both Angela and Polinas was sloppy--angela more--should have had downgrades in the long.