text:
The Value of Bronchoscopic Lung Volume Reduction by Endobronchial Valves in Patients With Single Lung Transplantation and Overinflation of the Native Lung
Recruitment status was: Not yet recruiting
- Full Text View
- Tabular View
- No Study Results Posted
- Disclaimer
- How to Read a Study Record
|Native Lung Overinflation in Patients That Underwent Single Lung Transplantation Due to Emphysema
|Device: lung volume reduction using the Zephyr device
|Study Type:
|Study Design:
|Allocation: Non-Randomized
Intervention Model: Single Group Assignment
Masking: None (Open Label)
Primary Purpose: Treatment
|Official Title:
|Clinical Trial to Evaluate the Value of Bronchoscopic Lung Volume Reduction by Endobronchial Valves in Patients With Single Lung Transplantation and Overinflation of the Native Lung
- •Mean % change in lung function (FEV1) [ Time Frame: 90 days ]
- Mean change in six minutes walk distance [ Time Frame: 90 days ]
|Estimated Enrollment:
|Study Start Date:
|September 2012
|Estimated Study Completion Date:
|September 2013
|Estimated Primary Completion Date:
|September 2013 (Final data collection date for primary outcome measure)
|Assigned Interventions
Experimental: intervention group
Patients that underwent dingle lung transplantation due to emphysema and developed native lung overinflation as demonstrated by chest CT and decline in pulmonary lung function tests (FEV1 ) shall undergo valves placement to the native lung
Device: lung volume reduction using the Zephyr device
lung volume reduction using the Zephyr device
Detailed Description:
Emphysema is a progressive pulmonary disease characterized by abnormal and permanent enlargement of air spaces distal to terminal bronchioles accompanied by the destruction of pulmonary parenchyma. Treatment includes inhaled bronchodilator therapy, rehabilitation and/or oxygen treatment. In addition to the above, patients with severe emphysema may benefit from surgical lung volume reduction and/or lung transplantation. The rationale for lung volume reduction surgery is that reducing lung size would restore elastic recoil of the lung and improve chest wall and diaphragm mechanics. It has previously been shown that particularly patients with heterogeneous emphysema seem to benefit most from surgical lung volume reduction.
Bronchoscopic lung volume reduction (BLVR) has recently been introduced as a less invasive potential alternative to surgical lung volume reduction. BLVR attempts to achieve the effects of surgery, by placing bronchial prostheses using a fibreoptic bronchoscope to selectively occlude the airways supplying the most affected hyperinflated regions of the emphysematous lung, while permitting exhaled gas to escape. This attempts to achieve segmental or lobar volume reduction, simulating the effects of surgical LVR.
The purpose of the study is to investigate if bronchoscopic lung volume reduction by valves (Zephyr) would reduce native lung overinflation in patients that underwent single lung transplantation due to emphysema, and improve their well being and pulmonary function tests
|Ages Eligible for Study:
|18 Years to 65 Years (Adult)
|Sexes Eligible for Study:
|Accepts Healthy Volunteers:
Inclusion Criteria:
Single lung transplantation due to emphysema at least six months following transplantation that developed native lung overinflation
- Age from 40 to 75 years
- BMI < 32 kg/m2
- FEV1 < 40% of predicted value, FEV1/FVC < 70%
- TLC > 120% predicted, RV > 150% predicted.
- Stable with < 20 mg prednisone (or equivalent) qd
- PaCO2 < 50mm Hg
- PaO2 > 45 mm Hg on room air
- 6-min walk of > 50m (without rehabilitation) or > 100m (with rehabilitation)
- Nonsmoking for 4 months prior to initial interview and throughout screening
- The patient agrees to all protocol required follow-up intervals.
- The patient has no child bearing potential
- The patient is willing and able to complete protocol required baseline assessments and procedures Exclusion criteria
- Prior endobronchial treatment for emphysema
- Pleural or interstitial disease that precludes surgery.
- Prior lung transplant, LVRS, median sternotomy, bullectomy or lobectomy.
- Clinically significant bronchiectasis
- Pulmonary nodule requiring surgery
- History of recurrent respiratory infections (> 3 hospitalization in the last year)
- Clinically significant (> 4 Tablespoons per day) sputum production
- Fever, elevated white cell count, or other evidence of active infection
- Dysrhythmia that might pose a risk during exercise or training
- Congestive heart failure within 6 mo and LVEF < 45%
- Evidence or history of Cor Pulmonale
- Resting bradycardia (< 50 beats/min), frequent multifocal PVCs, complex ventricular arrhythmia, sustained SVT
- History of exercise-related syncope
- MI within 6 mo and LVEF < 45%
- Evidence of systemic disease or neoplasia expected to compromise survival during 5-yr period
- Any disease or condition that interferes with completion of initial or follow-up assessments
- Patient is currently enrolled in another clinical trial
- Patient is unable to complete 3 minutes of unloaded peddling on cycle ergometer
- Alpha-1-Antitrypsin Deficiency
Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01682018
|Contact: Mordechai Kramer Kramer, MD
|Rabin Medical Center
|Not yet recruiting
|Petah Tikva, Israel, 92100
|Contact: Mordechai R Kramer, MD 97239377140 firstname.lastname@example.com
|Responsible Party:
|Rabin Medical Center
|ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
|NCT01682018 History of Changes
|Other Study ID Numbers:
|Study First Received:
|September 5, 2012
|Last Updated:
|September 7, 2012
Keywords provided by Rabin Medical Center:
lung transplantation
Additional relevant MeSH terms:
Pulmonary Emphysema
Pathologic Processes
Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive
Lung Diseases, Obstructive
Lung Diseases
Respiratory Tract Diseases
ClinicalTrials.gov processed this record on September 21, 2017


text:
Straight up trade:
JT for Cassell
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Straight up trade:
JT for Cassell
Better? How?
Cassell would bring the needed attitude and leadership so this team would finish off teams when they have the chance.
I think we'd do it, but why would they?
It's the 4yr contract that is bothering me and atleast Sam I Am knows how to run a team without going on a "I'm gonna shoot now!"-spree.
2012 PD ABA Fantasy Keeper League Champion, sports.ws
2011 PD ABA Fantasy Keeper League Champion, sports.ws
2006 PD ABA Fantasy League runner up, sports.ws
I'd be ok with that. Not a big commitment and we don't have to endure the 4 years of Tinsley. Sam gives leadership and could teach our young guys some things about being a professional athlete.
Kinda doubt the Clippers do it.
I've actually wondered if the Clippers would have any interest in Tinlsey.
Sam is not a long term answer for them. Neither is Brevin Knight, Dan Dickau, or Shaun Livingston (injuries). Hasn't there been some rumors of Sam being on the block or wanting a trade?
I think the Pacers do this for sure. Have doubts that the Clippers would although the Clippers are one of the very few teams, IMO, that may have some interest in Jamaal.
Sam's in the last year of his deal right? Sign me up. I wouldn't if I were LA, but it wouldn't be outlandish if they were interested.
I'd only do it if we got a verbal commitment to see the testicle dance at least once while wearing Pacers blue.
Say we do it, Sam retires very soon, it doesn't bring us under the cap to attract another quality pg
Actually, it would.
That is, we would be under the luxury tax cap. (Very few teams are below the cap, which is ~$55 mil. The lux tax threshold is ~$69 mil. Someone will be able to report on the actual amount better than I.
Pacers current salaries for this year is $66.8 mil and next year would be $68.7 mil with Harrison and Tinsley, but without Rush, Graham, and Owens, according to hoopshype. I believe we can sign players to the minimum to fill the roster and it doesn't count. I am not quite sure about this.
However, if Tinsley is traded for Cassell, whose contract expires and possibly wouldn't be resigned for next year, then that frees up Tins' $6.8 mil. Harrison probably won't be back so that frees his $2.0 mil qualifying offer amount. So that's $8.8 mil there to fill 5 spots (Harrison, Tins, Graham, Owens, and Rush) - sign 4 to a min and that's about $4.8 mil for a quality point guard. Plus, we can sign someone for the 5 mil exception.
List of PGs that are FAs next summer: Lue, Duhon, Beno, AJ, McInnis, Barea, Anthony Carter, Lindsey Hunter, Troy Hudson, CJ Watson, Diaz, Arroyo, Navarro, Quinn, Ivey, Armstrong, Ollie, Louis Williams, Juan Dixon, Jose Calderon, Darrick Martin, Roger Mason, John Lucas, Steve Francis. (This list was generated by looking at hoopshype and some of these guys might have been released already.)
Pargo of NO has an option at 2.0 mil that I think he might opt out of.
Portland has a bunch of draft picks and PGs and needs to clear some roster spots, so Blake, Jack, Rodriguez or Green may also be available.
Some FAs that are not PGs that I would like to see the Pacers bring in: Antoine Wright, James Augustine, Francisco Elson, and maybe CJ Miles.
Other possibilities would be Bonzi and Melvin Ely, if you want to deal with baggage.
Of the PGs above, I would look at Calderon, Navarro, Duhon, Lue... preferably Calderon, who I'm sure Toronto will resign, and Navarro, who I'm sure Memphis will resign... so Duhon or Lue.
And this obviously doesn't consider who we pick up in the draft.
I still dont see how this will make the Pacers any better. We trade a point guard for another point guard who will come off the books at the end of season leaving us with Diener as our only point guard on the roster.
With as many PGs that will be FAs and the chance of playing time in Indy, we won't have a problem finding someone willing to play for a small amount and short contract, much like Diener's situation last summer.
And we'll be in a good spot in the draft to get a player like Collison.
We wouldn't have $8.8M to throw at anyone. If you're not under the cap, all you get is the MLE, worth around 6 million, which is also usable by a lot of teams that are in a position to contend. All of those "good" PGs will sign there first, and we'd get whatever's left.
And we only get to use it once, there wouldn't be any "$4.8 mil for a quality point guard. Plus, we can sign someone for the 5 mil exception." It doesn't work like that. Now, if we were actually $4.8 mil below the cap, then yes, we could sign someone, but we're not.
Just some perspective when discussing this. Hey, on the bright side, if we had got Kwame Brown or another huge expiring for JO, we'd be right there, likely.
Yep, it's that bad!
I'd send Dunleavy for Sam and some sort of other reward, say Quinton Ross and a future pick. Knowing the Clippers, it'd be in the top 10 eventually.
Dunleavy lovers -- and I'm certainly no hater -- won't like this. But I think it'd show some foresight.
And then ship JT anywhere for a second-rounder. Maybe LA for Kwame and a pick. I'd bet Phil and Kobe could knock enough sense into Mel for a stretch playoff run.
I'm sold. And I'm dreaming. Open your eyes, man.
Last edited by Kraft; 02-01-2008 at 05:01 AM.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
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chronic traumatic encephalopathy
occurs when there are multiple traumas or injuries to the brain
glycine encephalopathy
a genetic condition where there are abnormally high levels of glycine (an amino acid) in the brain
Hashimoto's encephalopathy
a rare effect of an autoimmune disease that attacks the thyroid gland
hepatic encephalopathy
a result of liver disease
hypertensive encephalopathy
a result of very high blood pressure
hypoxic encephalopathy
when the brain does not get enough oxygen
Lyme encephalopathy
a result of Lyme disease. Infected ticks transmit this bacterial disease
static encephalopathy
permanent brain damage or dysfunction. A lack of oxygen to the brain, such as when a fetus is exposed to alcohol in the womb, is one of many causes of this type
toxic-metabolic encephalopathy
a result of infections, toxins, or organ failure
transmissible spongiform encephalopathies
a result of prion diseases. Prion proteins occur normally in the body. But they can also mutate, causing disease. Prion diseases include chronic wasting disease, fatal familial insomnia, kuru, and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease
uremic encephalopath
a result of kidney failure
Wernicke encephalopathy
a result of a vitamin B1 deficiency. Long-term alcoholism and poor food absorption can cause a vitamin B1 deficiency
What Are the Symptoms of Encephalopathy?
Your symptoms will depend on the cause and severity of your encephalopathy.
Mental Changes
You may have difficulty focusing or suffer from memory loss. Also, you may have trouble with problem-solving skills.
Other people may notice symptoms in you before you do. A changing personality is one such symptom. For example, you may be more outgoing than you were before the encephalopathy. You may be more or less calm than you were before the disease.
You could also be lethargic and drowsy.
Neurological Changes
- Possible neurological symptoms include:muscle weakness in one area, poor decision-making or concentration
- involuntary twitching
- trembling
- difficulty speaking or swallowing
- seizures
When Should I Seek Medical Help?
You should see a doctor promptly if you experience symptoms of encephalopathy. If you are already receiving treatment for brain disease, be aware of the following signs:
- severe confusion
- severe disorientation
- coma
These can be signs of a medical urgency, and may mean that your condition is getting worse.
How Is Encephalopathy Diagnosed?
To diagnose encephalopathy, your doctor will ask you questions about your medical history and your symptoms. He or she will also perform a medical exam to check for mental and neurological symptoms.
If your doctor suspects that you have brain disease, he or she may conduct tests to determine the causes and severity of your disease. Tests may include:
- blood tests to detect diseases, bacteria, viruses, toxins, or prion
- spinal tap (taking a sample of your spinal fluid to look for diseases, bacteria, viruses, toxins, or prion)
- computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of your brain to detect abnormalities or damage
- electroencephalogram (EEG) test to measure the electrical activity in your brain
How Is Encephalopathy Treated?
The treatment for encephalopathy varies according to the cause. Treatment may consist of medications to treat your symptoms and medications or surgery to treat the underlying cause. Your doctor may recommend nutritional supplements to slow the damage to your brain, and/or a special diet to treat underlying causes. In some cases of the disease, such as when the brain does not receive enough oxygen, you may slip into a coma. In severe cases like this, your doctor may put you on life support to keep you alive.
Is Encephalopathy Preventable?
Some types of encephalopathy—like hereditary types—are not preventable. However, some types are preventable.
In general, living a healthy lifestyle can reduce your risk factors for brain disease. Making the following changes can lessen the risk of many underlying causes of encephalopathy:
- avoiding excess alcohol
- reducing exposure to toxic substances like drugs
- eating a healthy diet
- seeing your doctor regularly
Long-Term Outlook
Your long-term outlook depends on the cause and severity of your encephalopathy. All types can be fatal if severe enough. Some types are always fatal.
According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, transmissible spongiform encephalopathy results in death within three months to a few years from the onset of the disease (NINDS).
Treatment for the cause of your brain disease may improve your symptoms or may get rid of the encephalopathy. Depending on the type of encephalopathy, you may or may not have permanent damage to your brain.
Edited by:
Medically Reviewed by: Seunggu Han, MD
Published: Aug 20, 2012
Published By: Healthline Networks, Inc.


text: Home → News → Elections → Recall elections Timeline: Events leading up to the recall of Gray Davis, Schwarzenegger election By Daniel Tedford, Los Angeles News Group Posted: 10/07/13, 7:33 AM PDT | Updated: on 10/07/2013 # Comments Advertisement Click here to subscribe to Digital & Home Delivery - 50% off About the Author Reach the author at firstname.lastname@example.com or follow Daniel on Twitter: @dgtedford. Full bio and more articles by Daniel Tedford Back to top More Related Former Gov. Gray Davis: No anger, no bitterness over recall California's Recall: Field of 135 candidates made for political theater Schwarzenegger more focused on movies, fitness than politics these days What happened to the top 10 finishers in California's 2003 recall election? California's Recall: Arnold Schwarzenegger era changed nothing 10 years since California's recall: Was it a waste?


text:
Steve Kindig has been an electronics enthusiast for over 30 years. He has written extensively about home and car A/V gear for Crutchfield since 1985. Steve is also a volunteer DJ at community radio station WTJU, where he is a regular host of the American folk show "Atlantic Weekly," as well as the world music program "Radio Tropicale."
More from Steve Kindig
Heads up!Welcome to this article from the Crutchfield archives. Have fun reading it, but be aware that the information may be outdated and links may be broken.
Shopping for a TV
» What are my choices when it comes to TVs?
» I keep seeing ads for "LED TVs." Is that a different type of TV?
» What do I need to be able to watch 3D at home?
» What size screen should I get for my room, and how far away should I sit for the best picture?
» What should I look for in a TV for gaming?
» How long should I expect a TV to last?
» On some TVs, the actual measured screen size is slightly smaller than the advertised screen size. Why is that?
TV terms and technologies
» What are the benefits of "120Hz refresh rate" and "240Hz refresh rate"?
» What's a good contrast ratio? 80,000:1? 1,000,000:1?
» What do the "i" and "p" mean in picture resolution numbers?
» What is 4K? Is it the same as Ultra High Definition?
Video sources
» Where can I find 1080p video content?
» How can I watch movies and TV shows from Netflix® and other online sources on my TV?
» How can I watch home movies and vacation photos on my TV?
» Can I surf the Internet using my TV?
» What kind of antenna do I need to receive over-the-air HD broadcasts?
» I'm a cable TV subscriber. What do I need to watch cable programs in HD?
» I'm a satellite TV subscriber. What do I need to watch satellite programs in HD?
» I'm considering "cutting the cord." Do over-the-air high-def broadcasts look as good as HD cable and satellite?
» I have an HDTV, so whenever the "Available in HD" logo appears on the screen, I'm seeing a high-definition picture, right?
» Now that my local TV stations are broadcasting digitally, how can I watch them on my old analog TV?
» Why is it that not all TVs with picture-in-picture actually let you watch two channels at once?
Getting the best picture
» How can I get rid of those black bars on my screen?
» My new TV looks much better than my old TV, but how can I make sure I'm getting the best possible picture?
» I just bought a new TV and now I want to replace my DVD player with a Blu-ray player. Will it play all my DVDs?
Setting up your TV
» What kind of video connection should I use to connect my components to my TV?
» What should I be aware of when placing my TV?
» What's involved in wall-mounting a flat-panel TV? Can I do it myself?
» Is it OK to mount my TV above my fireplace?
» How can I connect my computer to my TV?
» Should I use my receiver to make video connections?
» What kind of sound quality can I expect from flat-panel TV speakers?
» Can I use my TV's speakers as a center channel in my home theater system?
Shopping for a TV
|Nearly all current LCD TVs use LED backlighting, and are often referred to as "LED TVs" or "LED-LCD TVs."
Q: What are my choices when it comes to TVs?
A: Most of us grew up watching TVs with picture tubes inside, but tube-based TVs are history. Current TV models are based on various digital display technologies. These TVs come in much larger screen sizes than old-fashioned TVs did, with connections for more types of audio/video gear, and more advanced capabilities.
When you're shopping, you'll find that nearly all current TVs are LCD:
- Flat-panel LCD TVs are extremely popular due to their thin designs and crisp, vivid picture quality. "LED TVs" are a popular type of LCD TV that employ LED backlighting.
[Shop our selection of flat-panel TVs]
- Projectors have grown more popular recently, in part because the remarkable picture clarity and detail of high definition make it possible to enjoy larger images than ever before — up to 10 feet across or even bigger. Projectors provide a viewing experience that's closest to what you get at your local movie theater. You'll find tips on shopping for and installing a pr ojector in our article on what to look for in a projector.
[Shop our selection of projectors]
Q: I keep seeing ads for "LED TVs." Is that a different type of TV?
A: Not really. An "LED TV" is simply an LCD TV that uses LEDs to illuminate the image instead of conventional fluorescent lights. TVs with LED backlighting generally have higher contrast ratios and more accurate colors. They're also typically more energy efficient than fluorescent-backlit sets.
|To watch 3D at home, you need to wear 3D glasses that are compatible with your TV. If you try to watch 3D without the special glasses, all you'll see is a blurry 2D image.
Q: What do I need to be able to watch 3D at home?
A: To enjoy 3D at home, the first thing you need is a TV or projector capable of displaying 3D content. We carry both 3D TVs and 3D projectors.
In addition to a 3D-capable screen, each person watching will need to wear 3D glasses. And even though most 3D TVs and projectors include basic 2D-to-3D conversion for 2D video sources, the most convincing 3D experience involves a true 3D source like a 3D Blu-ray player. Check out our 3D TV FAQ for more details, including how 3D TV works and what you'll be able to watch in 3D.
|Your TV's screen size should be based mostly on how far away you'll be sitting from it.
Q: What size screen should I get for my room, and how far away should I sit for the best picture?
A: When it comes to TV screen size the most common recommendation is "bigger is better" — and that's good advice. Nothing will add more to your viewing enjoyment than a big screen. Over the years we've heard from customers who wished they'd bought a larger TV, but we're still waiting to hear from any folks who wish they'd chosen a smaller one.
When deciding what size TV to get, your budget and space are key factors, and equally important is how far you'll be sitting from the TV. Sitting too far away from a smallish screen will reduce the impact and immediacy of the viewing experience. On the other hand, if you're too close to a large screen, you may be distracted by the screen's "pixel structure" — the grid of tiny picture elements that form the TV image.
High-quality video sources like Blu-ray discs and HD programs look amazing on the latest TVs. But some people also find that noise and distortion in lower-quality analog signals (like standard broadcast and cable) are exposed and magnified. That's why our viewing distance chart (below) offers a range for each screen size. If most of your viewing is DVD-quality or better, you'll see more details by sitting closer. If you watch more lower-quality video, like standard-definition cable, sit farther back for a smoother picture.
In general, we recommend getting at least a 46" screen for your main TV, while a 32" screen is usually a good minimum size for a bedroom TV.
|Viewing distance range
|4.0-6.7 feet
|4.6-7.7 feet
|5.0-8.3 feet
|5.7-9.5 feet
|6.3-10.4 feet
|6.9-11.5 feet
|7.5-12.5 feet
|8.1-13.5 feet
|8.75-14.6 feet
|9.4-15.6 feet
|10.0-16.7 feet
|10.5-17.5 feet
Q: What should I look for in a TV for gaming?
A: That will depend on which video game console(s) you plan to use, your room and equipment setup, and what kind of gamer you are.
Both the Xbox 360™ and PlayStation® 3 can output 1080p video for games, and the PS3 can play Blu-ray Disc™ high-def movies. To take advantage of that higher resolution, consider getting a 1080p TV.
Q: How long should I expect a TV to last?
A: The design and manufacturing of flat-panel TVs are now so advanced that today's LCD models should last as long or longer than old-fashioned tube TVs. One big reason is that new TVs are very energy efficient — they use much less power and produce much less heat than TVs from a few years ago. Excess heat is one of the main threats to the longevity of electronic components. New LCD TVs typically have a rated lifetime of 100,000 hours for the screen. Even if you had the TV on for eight hours every day, it would last over 34 years! You may decide to replace your new TV after five, ten, fifteen years or more, but it's unlikely you'll ever need to replace it because it has worn out.
Q: On some TVs, the actual measured screen size is slightly smaller than the advertised screen size. Why is that?
A: Some TV makers list a TV's true screen size if it's different from the advertised size. This difference is only a fraction of an inch — a common example is 32" LCDs that actually measure 31-1/2". We've not heard any official explanation for the discrepancies. It's likely just the type of rounding up that's been going on for years for products ranging from refrigerators, to car engines, to cans of soda. As with these examples, the screen size difference is nothing to be concerned about. You might notice a half-inch difference on a computer monitor but you won't on a TV.
TV terms and technologies
Q: What are the benefits of "120Hz refresh rate" and "240Hz refresh rate"?
A: The digital display technologies, like LCD, that have replaced picture tubes are progressive-scan by nature, displaying 60 video frames per second — often referred to as "60Hz." TVs with 120Hz refresh rate use advanced video processing to double the standard display rate to 120 frames per second. Because each video frame appears for only half the normal amount of time, on-screen motion looks smoother and more fluid, with less motion blur and smearing. Some TVs have a more powerful video processing chip, and can produce a 240Hz refresh rate, which doubles the display rate again, to reduce motion blur even further. Choosing a TV with a fast refresh rate is a good idea if you watch a lot of fast-action sports and video games.
For a visual demo of how this anti-blur technology works, watch our video explaining refresh rates.
Q: What's a good contrast ratio? 80,000:1? 1,000,000:1?
A: TV makers have mostly stopped pushing contrast ratio specs, which is a good thing. Picture contrast is one of the most important aspects of TV picture quality, but the contrast ratio specs trumpeted by manufacturers became meaningless marketing fizz. The contrast performance of TVs has steadily improved over the years thanks to advances in LCD backlighting technology, and to the introduction of OLED TVs.
Check out our video on TV contrast ratio for more info.
Q: What is 1080p?
A: 1080p is the highest HDTV screen resolution available, with 1920 x 1080 pixels and progressive scanning (see "i" vs. "p" question below). Since 1080p is higher than either of the two most common broadcast HD formats (1080i and 720p), having a 1080p TV means you can enjoy full picture resolution for all your video sources; the TV won't have to "downconvert" the signal and sacrifice detail. References to 1080p are usually about TVs rather than video source material. The new 4K Ultra HD format has four times the detail of 1080p HD.
Q: What do the "i" and "p" mean in picture resolution numbers?
A: The "i" and "p" refer to the video frame rate, where "i" stands for interlaced-scan and "p" stands for progressive-scan. These terms originated when all TVs used picture tubes, and images were "scanned" — painted across the screen line by line. Interlaced-scan images required two passes to create a complete video frame, while progressive-scan displayed the entire frame with just one pass (see illustration below). The frame rate for interlaced video is 30 frames per second while progressive-scan video is usually 60 frames per second.
|Interlaced scan splits each video frame into two "fields," displaying all the even horizontal scan lines (2,4,6...) in 1/60th of a second, followed by the odd scan lines (1,3,5...) during the next 1/60th of a second. That means you'll see a complete video frame every 1/30th of a second.
|Progressive scan, on the other hand, displays all the lines in a single sweep (1,2,3,4...). You'll see a complete frame every 1/60th of a second.
Today's digital TV displays are nearly all effectively progressive-scan, so interlaced and progressive are mostly relevant when describing video source signals sent to the TV. The main thing to remember is that a progressive signal has twice as much picture information as an equivalent interlaced signal, and generally looks a little more solid and stable, with on-screen motion that's more fluid.
Q: What is "4K"? Is it the same as Ultra High Definition?
A: 4K is a general term for high-resolution digital displays and video formats with horizontal resolution of around 4000 pixels. Professional 4K projectors have been used in movie theaters for many years. At the end of 2012, the first 4K TVs appeared. These TVs, officially known as Ultra High Definition TVs, have screen resolution of 3840 horizontal pixels x 2160 vertical pixels — twice the horizontal and vertical resolution of 1080p (1920 x 1080 pixels). 4K has four times the total pixels of 1080p and is capable of creating a much more detailed picture.
Although true 4K content has been slow in coming, Netflix® began streaming a limited amount of 4K content in the Spring of 2014, and by the end of the year, Amazon had launched its own 4K streaming. Both Sony and Samsung introduced 4K media players that can store and play back 4K movies. All 4K TVs include video processing that upconverts lower-resolution sources to 4K, so all video sources should look better on a 4K screen.
[Shop our selection of 4K Ultra HD TVs]
Q: What is OLED?
A: OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) is a new display technology with significant advantages over conventional LCD TVs. OLED has been used for high-end smartphone screens for a few years, but was only introduced in large-screen TVs in the second half of 2013. OLED can produce a spectacular picture that is superior to even the finest LED-LCD TVs. While LEDs have been used as backlights for LCD TVs for years, OLED (pronounced "oh-led") TVs use a completely different panel structure, with a series of organic thin films forming the pixel layers. A thin-film transistor layer has the circuitry to turn each individual pixel on and off to form an image. Because the OLED pixel layer is self-illuminating, no backlight is required. When a pixel is switched off, it is completely dark, producing infinite picture contrast and absolute black. OLED technology enables panels to be extremely thin — less than 1/4" — and lightweight.
[Shop our selection of OLED TVs]
Video sources
Q: Where can I find 1080p video content?
A: Since so many TVs offer top-of-the-line 1080p video resolution, a lot of folks wonder what their options are for 1080p viewing. The most common 1080p content is Blu-ray movies, although some satellite TV providers offer 1080p on-demand movies as well. To learn more about HD video resolution, see our article that explains HDTV resolution, or watch our HDTV resolution video to get the basics.
|More and more TVs can play movies from services like Netflix® and Amazon Video on Demand™.
Q: How can I watch movies and TV shows from Netflix® and other online sources on my TV?
A: Most current TVs are "smart" or Internet-ready, with video streaming so you can watch TV shows and movies from the web. To ensure a wide selection of entertainment options, most TV makers have partnered with movie streaming services like Netflix®, Hulu, Amazon, and others. These TVs have built-in apps that make it easy to browse available titles. Most services require a subscription, like Netflix, but Amazon Prime members get free access to a selection of Amazon's video content.
All Internet-ready TVs include an Ethernet port for connecting to your home network. If you'd rather not run a cable to your TV, most of these models have built-in Wi-Fi® to make a wireless connection to your network.
If you have an older non-Internet-capable TV that still performs well otherwise, there are Wi-Fi-based add-on components that make it easy to turn your "dumb" TV into a smart one. One of the best known ones is Apple TV®, but there are other even more compact and affordable options — devices like Google's Chromecast, Roku's Streaming Stick, and Amazon's Fire TV Stick, which plug directly into one of your TV's HDMI inputs. Another way to add Internet smarts to your TV is by connecting a Wi-Fi-equipped Blu-ray player.
Q: How can I watch home movies and vacation photos on my TV?
A: A lot of folks store their vacation photos and home movies on computers or connected hard drives. But you don't have to crowd around your computer's small screen to enjoy them. One option for getting your photos on the big screen is AirPlay®. AirPlay capable devices such as the Apple TV allow you to stream photos and music from your Apple computer, iPod® touch, iPad®, or iPhone®.
"DLNA-compatible" TVs are another popular route. They connect to your home network and allow you to access your photos and home movies stored on your computer. The DLNA label means that these TVs use an industry-wide standard for recognizing and playing digital media. Many DLNA-compatible TVs and gaming systems can access photos, videos, and music stored on compatible computers.
All DLNA-capable TVs include an Ethernet port to connect to your home network, and most have built-in Wi-Fi® so you can connect to your network wirelessly.
Q: Can I surf the Internet using my HDTV?
A: For most new Internet-ready Smart TVs, the answer is "yes." Most of these TVs include a full web browser for accessing the Internet, although doing so may not be as quick and convenient as surfing the web with your computer, in part because you're using the TV's remote to enter text searches, which can be painfully slow.
|Over-the-air HDTV broadcasts offer outstanding picture quality.
Q: What kind of antenna do I need to receive over-the-air HD broadcasts?
A: First, don't worry about finding one that's "specially designed for HDTV." As with analog broadcasts, digital TV broadcasts can be either UHF or VHF. It's a good idea to get an antenna that can receive both, because even though most stations broadcast in the UHF band (channels 14-51), a significant number are in the VHF band (channels 2-13). If you're not sure about your local stations, check out the Consumer Electronics Association's AntennaWeb mapping tool. It will tell you what stations broadcast in your area, where they are in relation to you, and what type of antenna is recommended for your specific location.
For more information, see our article on how to choose and install an antenna for HDTV.
Q: I'm a cable TV subscriber. What do I need to watch cable programs in HD?
A: There are a couple ways you can watch high-def cable programs. The option that will work best for you depends on the types of HD programs you want to watch, as well as which services are available from your local cable provider. These service providers used to only scramble the signals for premium content like HBO®, Showtime®, and pay-per-view events. But recently, they've been scrambling more and more content. Generally, you can only access scrambled programs by using a cable box. Your local service provider(s) will be able to provide up-to-date details on services and pricing in your area.
Q: I'm a satellite TV subscriber. What do I need to watch satellite programs in HD?
A: To view high-def shows via satellite, you'll need a subscription that includes HD programming. You'll also need an HD satellite set-top box. These HD boxes often include a built-in DVR for recording high-def programs.
Q: I'm considering "cutting the cord." Do over-the-air high-def broadcasts look as good as HD cable and satellite?
A: All three of these high-def signal types provide excellent picture quality — dramatically clearer and more detailed than standard DVDs and other video sources. All three types are digital video formats which use "data compression" for more efficient use of broadcast bandwidth. Compression reduces the amount of picture data being sent, so all other things being equal, more compression will reduce picture quality. Typically, over-the-air broadcasts use less compression than either satellite or cable TV signals, and in side-by-side comparisons, over-the-air HD nearly always looks noticeably sharper and cleaner.
Q: I have an HDTV, so whenever the "Available in HD" logo appears on the screen, I'm seeing a high-definition picture, right?
A: No, unfortunately it's not that simple. What that on-screen logo means is that if you have a high-definition TV that is receiving a high-definition signal, you'll be seeing HD. Sources of high-def programming include over-the-air TV broadcasts, and loads of cable and satellite TV channels.
If you feel that your HDTV isn't delivering as sharp and clear a picture as you see on TVs in electronics stores or at the homes of friends or neighbors, there's probably an easy solution. One of your first steps should be to check the signal coming from your satellite or cable TV receiver and make sure it's set for high-definition.
Q: How can I watch local digital broadcasts on my old analog TV?
A: To receive digital TV signals from your local TV stations, any old-fashioned TV (one with an analog-only tuner) needs to be connected to a digital converter box, or replaced by a new TV with a built-in digital tuner.
Of course, digital TV reception is only a concern for viewers who rely on local over-the-air broadcasts received via antenna. Cable TV providers may include local channels even in basic subscription packages. Satellite TV providers typically charge a few dollars extra per month for local channels.
Q: Why is it that most new TVs with picture-in-picture don't actually let you watch two stations at once?
A: TV manufacturers take two basic approaches to picture-in-picture (PIP). With 1-tuner PIP, the TV has one built-in tuner, so you'll need to connect another component with a built-in tuner (like a DVD recorder) or a stand-alone tuner if you want to watch two different TV broadcasts at once. Actually, with 1-tuner PIP, you can enjoy picture-in-picture with the addition of another video source like a DVD player or camcorder.
A TV with 2-tuner PIP has two built-in tuners, allowing you to watch two different TV broadcasts simultaneously using only the TV.
Getting the best picture
Q: How can I get rid of those black bars on my TV?
A: Most non-HD video sources use the squarish 4:3 aspect ratio, which doesn't quite fit a 16:9 widescreen HDTV. Some folks stretch or zoom the image to fill up the screen so that they don't have to see the black bars. But if you don't mind the black bars on either side of the picture, we recommend you leave them up. Stretching will distort an already poor signal, and zooming usually makes the image look softer and can further magnify any flaws in the picture.
4:3 image on a 16:9 screenWhen 4:3 programs are displayed on a 16:9 screen, black or gray bars appear on the sides of the screen — the image is "pillar-boxed."
4:3 image stretched to fill a 16:9 screenOne way to get rid of vertical black bars is to use your TV's stretch mode. Some sets stretch the image evenly across the screen (as above), though a few stretch the edges only and leave the center undistorted.
4:3 image zoomed to fill a 16:9 screenAnother option is to use the TV's zoom mode to expand the image to fill the screen. This cuts off the top and bottom of the picture, but leaves it undistorted.
16:9 image on a 16:9 screenWhen you look at the original widescreen version of the image we've been using to show 4:3, you can see just how much of the picture is lost with the 4:3 version.
Q: My HDTV looks much better than my old TV, but how can I make sure I'm getting the best possible picture?
A: Many new TV owners are so knocked out by these sets' big, bright pictures that it never occurs to them that they might be able to get an even better picture. First, make sure you're actually getting a high-definition signal. Millions of HDTV owners still aren't seeing a true high-definition picture — and unfortunately many of them don't even realize it.
Two other areas TV owners should explore to improve picture quality are picture controls and connections. For helpful tips on both topics, see our article on getting the best picture from your TV.
|Blu-ray players are the best source available for high-def video.
Q: I just bought a new TV and now I want to replace my DVD player with a Blu-ray player. Will it play all my DVDs?
A: Yes, Blu-ray players not only deliver stunning high-def video with Blu-ray discs, they also typically do an excellent job upconverting standard DVDs. You'll not only be able to watch your DVD collection, you'll probably find that the picture quality looks better than ever.
For the best picture, be sure to use an HDMI cable between the player and your TV.
For more suggestions about what to look for in a Blu-ray player, see our article on how to choose a Blu-ray player. Or, watch our short video guide to shopping for a Blu-ray player.
Setting up your TV
HDMI should be your first choice when connecting components to your TV.
Q: What kind of video connection should I use to connect my components to my TV?
A: HDMI should be your connection of choice. This single-cable connection can carry full 1080p video as well as audio. If you run out of HDMI inputs on your TV, or the component you're connecting doesn't have an HDMI output, component video is a good backup. It can also carry high-def video, though you'll need to make a separate audio connection.
For more info, including recommendations for common connection scenarios, check out our article on hooking up your HDTV.
Q: What should I be aware of when placing my TV?
A: Along with viewing distance, consider viewing height. Ideally, your eyes should be about level with the middle of the screen when you're seated in your normal viewing position. We carry a wide selection of TV stands designed to support flat-panel TVs and raise them to the correct viewing height.
Lighting in your room is another factor that affects your TV's picture. If you do much daytime viewing, daylight shining in through your windows can wash out your TV's picture and also create reflections on the screen. When watching TV at night, lamps and overhead lights can cause similar problems, although they're usually not as severe. You may find that watching with the lights dimmed enhances picture quality.
For more tips on TV placement and room lighting, see our article on choosing the right screen size and placing your TV.
Q: What's involved in wall-mounting a flat-panel TV? Can I do it myself?
A: Most people who want a flat-panel TV mounted on a wall are after an uncluttered, elegant look. Achieving that means not only installing a wall-mount bracket to hold the TV, but also hiding the power and signal cables running to the TV. If you're comfortable with household tasks like mounting shelving and installing new light fixtures, you can probably handle wall-mounting a TV.
Check out our complete guide to wall-mounting your TV for more details.
|This TV might look like it's mounted too low, but it's actually the ideal height — both for image quality and for comfortable viewing.
Q: Is it OK to mount my TV above my fireplace?
A: While your new TV might look pretty cool mounted over your fireplace, it's definitely a less-than-ideal location. We'll review some of the issues that come up with fireplace mounting, as well as some possible workarounds.
- Viewing angle: TVs look their best when viewed head-on. If your TV is mounted high up on the wall, you'll be viewing it at an angle. Colors may look somewhat washed out, and black levels won't be as dark. Solution: Choose a tilting wall mount and angle your TV down a few degrees, so you're viewing it more head-on.
- Neck strain: Mounting your TV up high means that as you watch TV, you'll always be looking up — something which, over time, can be uncomfortable for your neck. Solution: Sit in a recliner, or lay back on your couch so that you don't have to angle your neck upwards.
- Safe, secure mounting: The heat and smoke from some fireplaces may potentially shorten the lifespan of your TV. Also, if you'll need to mount your TV to brick or masonry, you may need to buy special hardware to securely mount your set. See the wall mount owner's manual for details.
For more tips on TV placement and room lighting, see our article on choosing the right screen size and placement for your TV.
Q: How can I connect my computer to my TV?
A: If you'd like to connect your computer to your TV to use it as a large monitor, or to view photos and videos stored on your computer, there are a few ways to go about it.
First, the video connection. The easiest route will be to use your computer's HDMI, DVI, or VGA output. We recommend HDMI or DVI, since HDTVs often accept higher resolutions over those connections than VGA. And although most TVs today don't have DVI inputs, you can still go that route if you use a DVI-to-HDMI adapter. (Since DVI doesn't carry audio, you'll still need to make a separate connection for sound — see below.) If you opt for VGA, look for an input on the back of your TV labeled "PC." And if none of these options work with your setup, you can use your computer's VGA output and a VGA-to-component-video adapter to connect it to your TV.
Once you see your computer's display on your TV, you'll need to set it to the right resolution — otherwise, you may see a pixilated or distorted picture. Be sure to use a resolution your TV is designed to handle (see the TV's owner's manual). If you don't see video displaying on your TV, there's a good chance you chose an incompatible resolution. You can tweak resolution settings by going into "System Preferences," and then the "Displays Preferences" pane.
A note for folks using laptops: You'll need go into your computer's menus to "extend" your desktop to a second monitor — this will allow the computer to display video on your TV, as well as its own monitor. On Windows computers, you can access this menu by right-clicking the desktop, selecting "Properties," and then "Settings." Macs running Tiger, Leopard or Snow Leopard will auto-detect the new monitor and either "mirror" or extend your desktop.
If you also want to send audio from your computer to your home theater receiver or TV, and you're not using HDMI, you'll need to make a second connection. Many computer sound cards today include optical or coaxial digital audio outputs that can connect to a receiver. If yours doesn't, you may want to consider upgrading your sound card. Or, you can simply use your computer's headphone output — you'll need a mini plug-to-stereo RCA adapter to connect it to your TV or receiver.
Q: Should I use my receiver to make video connections?
A: You can simplify your A/V system connections by using your receiver as a "hub" for switching among your source components. That means you connect your Blu-ray player, satellite DVR, video game console, etc. to your receiver, then just make one connection — ideally HDMI — between your receiver and TV. Besides reducing cable clutter, this approach lets you switch sources using your receiver's remote, and you don't have to separately select the audio and video signals. One drawback to this setup is that it means you're often limited to using the same set of picture adjustments for all of your sources. That's fine if they're all of similar quality, but might not be ideal if you have a Blu-ray player and a VCR. Check out our article about connecting your home theater receiver for more info.
Q: What kind of sound quality can I expect from flat-panel TV speakers?
A: The one drawback to flat-panel TVs is that their super-skinny cabinets don't provide enough room for decent-sounding speakers. The sound from these speakers is typically thin or even tinny, and they just can't play very loud. There are lots of ways to get better sound with your TV, from full surround sound systems to sleek, simple sound bars. Even inexpensive sound bars usually sound much better than TV speakers.
Interested in upgrading the sound quality of your system to match your TV's fantastic picture? See our article describing ways to add great sound to your TV.
Q: Can I use my TV's speakers as a center channel in my home theater system?
A: No, you really can't, and you wouldn't want to for sound quality reasons (see previous question). Not only are the speakers inside TVs very small, they're powered by equally puny amplifiers. Flat-panel TVs simply can't produce robust sound. Plus, TVs almost never include a speaker-type jack that's compatible with your A/V receiver. If adding a real center speaker isn't an option, check to see if your A/V receiver has a "Phantom" surround mode. This mode re-directs the center-channel information to your front left and right speakers. Phantom mode can be surprisingly effective at creating the illusion of a center speaker.
WALTER POVEDA from ALAJUELAPosted on 6/26/2016


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WASHINGTON, D.C. — A research project is attempting to scientifically confirm what experts believe are the best food safety practices for tomato and leafy greens production, processing and transportation.
The United Fresh Produce Association Washington Public Policy Conference featured an Oct. 2 workshop on the multiyear development of the metrics, which is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture and the Specialty Crops Research Initiative. The project is led by Robert Buchanan, director of the Center for Food Safety and Security Systems at the University of Maryland and includes food specialists from the University of Maryland, the Ohio State University, the University of Florida, the University of California at Davis and the University of Delaware.
A complete outline of the project, "Developing Scientifically-basded Consensus Food Safety Metrics for Leafy Greens and Tomatoes," is available online. The goal is to generate data to ensure that developing methods for leafy greens and tomatoes are scientifically valid so that they can be implemented on a national or regional basis for both domestic and imported produce.
"Tomato and leafy greens metrics are based on expert opinion, but no one has sat down in a scientific manner to make sure those really work," said Dave Gombas, senior vice president for food safety for the Washington, D.C.-based United Fresh Produce Association. "It is intended to validate what people do in the field," he said.
Gombas said the multi-state effort is looking at the science necessary to validate or establish food safety metrics for leafy greens and tomatoes. The project, gathering data since last year, is scheduled to last three years but could be extended to five years, he said. Eighteen produce industry members, representing a critical mass of leafy greens and tomato production, are participating in the project, Gombas said.
The project will use sample data from growers, packers and processors with data from designed research trials consider the risk factors of water, environmental parameters, harvesting and processing, and temperature/food safety chain management control. The project aims to determine the relation between microbial contamination in water and microbial contamination on produce. For environmental parameters, the project is looking at the potential for transference of pathogens from adjacent high-risk sources (animal operations, manure stockpiles) via wind, runoff, vehicles and other vectors.


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Wimbledon came up against the immovable and unbeaten force of East Grinstead in London Division One South and, despite putting up a valiant show, could not prevent a 24-5 defeat.
Peter Scott scored the Dons' only try of the day, but by the time he crossed the whitewash, the Dons were already 24-0 behind.
East Grinstead are now 10 points clear at the top, having won all 18 of their games so far this season.
Despite the result, the Dons, still fourth in the table, will take positives from the game after a good second half performance had East Grinstead on the back foot for long periods.
From the moment the Dons found themselves 24-0 behind, they produced the rugby that has made them such a force so often this season.
Flanker Steve May typified the effort, appearing everywhere both in support of attacks and in defence.
Chris Lewis and Danny Craven were not far behind, and the entire team was transformed.
Lock Gary Crowe won all Wimbledon's line-outs to give some precious possession, while scrum half Charlie Morgan slowed much of East Grinstead's scrum ball.
Number 10 Neil Hallett and centres Kua Palakua and Tommy Moore (on for the injured Neil Brown) joined the back row to prevent East Grinstead breaking through and the home team suddenly found themselves in a real battle.
On the half hour, prop Pete Wallace combined with Moore and Lewis to get into East Grinstead's 22 and after minutes of ferocious rucking, the ball eventually found its way out to wing Scott, who fought his way over for a deserved try.
Next week Wimbledon host struggling Trojans.


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The new Ram 1500, which received a mild makeover for the 2013 model year, is now at the top of Consumer Reports annual rankings of full-size pickups. The nonprofit group recently completed testing of the 2013 Ram 1500, and the freshened model received the highest score, 78.
"The Ram 1500 is surprisingly luxurious and refined -- but still fully capable of doing hard work when needed," said Jake Fisher, director of Consumer Reports' Auto Test Center in East Haddam, Conn., said in a statement.
Because the Ram 1500 has been reliable in past years, Consumer Reports has also given the truck a "recommended" designation. The designation is based on a good performance in government and industry crash tests, a good performance in the group's own tests as well as the reliability of the model in previous years, according to the group's annual auto survey.
Other full-size pickup trucks tested include the Toyota Tundra, which scored 69, and the Ford F-150, which scored 68. The redesigned 2014 Chevrolet Silverado is still undergoing tests at Consumer Reports' East Haddam, Conn., facility and will be announced in late summer.
Tara Baukus Mello writes the cars blog as well as the weekly Driving for Dollars column, providing both practical financial advice for consumers as well as insight into the latest developments in the automotive world. Follow her on Facebook here or on Twitter @SheDrives.


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His Destiny Cologne
By Harley Davidson for Men
His Destiny Cologne by Harley Davidson, Designed with the masculine man in mind, his destiny was launched in 1999 . It is magnificently blended with amber, chypre, anisee, ginger, leather, sandalwood, cedar wood, and cinnamon. All products are original, authentic name brands. We do not sell knockoffs or imitations. ... Read More
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I was truly impressed with the selection available, however, there are others I would like to see there. The delivery was very good. The shipment arrived in the time they estimated. My experience with Internet purchases has been the estimated date plus 2 weeks.
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We are in Charlottesville VA
Hold a ball between your fingertips. In the blink of an eye- there are two balls! Then three! Then four! And just as quickly, you make the balls vanish!
Excellent set for learning how to handle multiplying balls, yet colorful and rugged enough for the professional performer. These specially coated balls are very easy to grip, hold and manipulate.
This quality multiplying golf balls set is made of yellow rubber with matching hard shell. The color is dyed completely through the ball.
Balls are approximately 1.5" diameter.
Need more instruction? See the Multiplying Balls Instruction DVD.
History and Trivia: Henry Gordien introduced the concept of using golf balls in the classic Multiplying Balls routine.
Interested in magic history? Visit our free online Magic Library, full of biographies of famous magicians plus lots of magic history and trivia!
And that's all you need!Balls are approx. 1.5" diameter.Balls are made of solid yellow rubber.


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Carol Peske was taking out the trash in the South Bay when a stunning fireball lit up the night Wednesday -- along with the Twittersphere and switchboards from Monterey to Mendocino.
"I looked up and it was like one single firework going across the sky," Peske, of Monte Sereno, said Thursday. "I've seen shooting stars before. This was much brighter, much bigger and it seemed closer."
People were still buzzing Thursday about one of the Bay Area's most memorable sky shows in years, but don't be too dismayed if you missed it. You will have an opportunity to see numerous other shooting stars this weekend -- although probably nothing as dramatic.
The bright flash and loud boom that stunned Bay Area residents around 7:45 p.m. Wednesday was most likely a large chunk of rock -- the size of a microwave to a small car -- that was part of the circulating debris left over from the formation of the universe, or from the collision of two asteroids, said Ben Burress, a staff astronomer at the Chabot Space and Science Center in Oakland.
The meteor probably entered the Earth's atmosphere at a blazing speed of 10 to 20 miles per second, creating the sonic boom as it traveled faster than the speed of sound, then began to burn up, Burress said.
Alexa Andrzejewski took to Twitter immediately after viewing the fireball and hearing the loud boom from Alamo Square in San Francisco.
"WHAT WAS THAT?!" she tweeted.
"We saw the sky light up like lightning," she said Thursday. "This was a ball of fire shooting across the sky with a long tail."
Did it entirely burn up as it tore through the sky? Or could chunks of fiery rock, known as meteorites, have struck somewhere out there in the Bay Area? No one knows, although Burress fielded several calls from people hoping to go on a mad dash to try to find some.
One hint: the fireball was heading from the south to the north and was visible as far away as Lake and Mendocino counties, so if any pieces did fall to the ground, they may have hit north of the Bay Area, Burress said.
And they're likely very small. Photographs showed the fireball breaking up as it plunged, Burress said.
The meteor happened to blaze across the sky at the same time the Earth is passing through a stream of dusty rocks that follows Halley's comet. That typically lights up the pre-dawn sky with shooting stars at this time of year. But that is believed to be merely a coincidence since this meteor came from the opposite direction as the comet, Burress said.
Those who missed out on the fireball sighting will have an opportunity to see more shooting stars early this Sunday morning, Oct. 21, which will be prime viewing time for what is known as the Orionid meteor shower, said Andrew Fraknoi, chairman of the Astronomy Department at Foothill College in Los Altos Hills.
Because the meteors from Halley's comet streak out of the constellation Orion, astronomers refer to them as "Orionids."
Fraknoi advised people who want to see the shooting stars to find a spot away from city lights where they can view most of the sky. He suggested bringing a mug of hot chocolate and sharing the experience with someone you love.
"You have to go to where it's dark and give time for your eyes to get dark-adjusted," he said. "Most of the shooting stars are subtle."
Wednesday night's fireball was anything but that. It was not unprecedented, however. Burress estimated that several large, similar-sized chunks of rocks enter the Earth's atmosphere somewhere around the world each year, and every day, smaller chunks arrive.
"Most of it, you don't see," he said.
Contact Sandy Kleffman at 510-293-2478. Follow her at Twitter.com/skleffman.
What happened Wednesday: A large chunk of rock plunged into the Earth's atmosphere at a high rate of speed, began to burn up and created a sonic boom.
What's to come: The pre-dawn hours on Sunday will be a prime time to see other shooting stars that are part of the Orionid meteor shower. For the best viewing, find a dark spot away from city lights where you can see most of the sky.


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The Alphas Co. looks to Southeast Asia
The Alphas Co., Chelsea, Mass., a wholesale distributor that focuses on specialty products brought in from Asia and India, is looking to expand its program, said Yanni Alphas, president and chief executive officer.
"We're going to be expanding the program into Vietnam and Laos and Cambodia to bring in stuff like dragon fruit and a lot of other fruits," he said.
Alphas started the company in 1999.
Boston Tomato moves into bigger facility
Boston Tomato & Packaging LLC, Chelsea, Mass., recently moved into a 10,000-square-foot building across the street from the company's established location, said Bobby Nano, owner and president.
The company bought out Bostonia Produce, at 300 Beacham St., in November for an undisclosed price and moved into the building in March, Nano said.
"It's double the size of what we had," Nano said.
The move allows for more sales, Nano said.
"We have a full line of our Western deal, with iceberg, romaine, red leaf and green leaf lettuce and green onions, which we never sold before," Nano said.
The company also recently started a packaging line and recently achieved audit certification from Primus Labs, Nano said.
The move also allowed the company to increase staff by about 15%, raising the number of employees to 70, Nano said.
Community Suffolk reaches 75th year
Everett, Mass.-based Community-Suffolk Inc. is celebrating 75 years in business, said Steven Piazza, president and treasurer.
Community-Suffolk product staples include carrots, onions, potatoes, celery, broccoli, lettuce, lemons and oranges.
Condakes puts grape tomatoes in quart clams
Chelsea, Mass.-based Peter Condakes Co. Inc. is in growth mode, said Peter John Condakes, president.
One part of that growth involved tomato packing, as the company will add quart packs to its line of clamshell-packed grape tomatoes this year, Condakes said.
"We also recently expanded into more of the mixed-medley specialty packs of tomatoes — grapes and cherries mixed in a pack," he said.
"It's very colorful, very pretty. It probably goes more to foodservice, but some also goes to retail."
The company also now is bringing in heirloom tomatoes, Condakes said.
"None of this is huge numbers, but you start slowly," he said.
Condakes said his company is working on bringing in a consistent supply of yellow tomatoes.
"There's a reasonable market on them. The challenge is getting a consistent supply," he said.
"You can build a business if people know you have it."
Sid Wainer & Son preps for 100th anniversary
New Bedford, Mass.-based Sid Wainer & Son is preparing to celebrate its 100th anniversary, said Victor Simas, vice president of sales.
The company was founded primarily as a wholesaler, Wainer Bros., in 1914.
It remains a family-run business, which is becoming rarer, Simas said.
"They're getting less and less, and we're one of the few independent companies that operate that way," he said.


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Get an overview of this hotelElegant historical Chicago hotel across from Grant Park
Popular property highlights
Close to family-friendly destinations
Overlooking Grant Park in downtown Chicago, this landmark Hilton hotel is within walking distance of Buddy Guy's Legends, Millennium Park, the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Soldier Field, and the Loop business and shopping district.
Indoor pool
Hilton Chicago-Michigan Avenue Cultural Mile's health club features an indoor lap pool, fitness room, indoor running track, and a sundeck. Dining choices include a bar and grill, Irish pub, and grab-and-go options.
Premium bedding
Guestrooms at this downtown Chicago Hilton feature signature Hilton Serenity Beds, HDTVs with complimentary premium channels, in-room safes, and a touch-panel computer with wireless or wired high-speed Internet access (surcharge).
Guest Highlights
- Good location
- Helpful staff
- Clean guestrooms
- Comfy beds and overall room comfort
Hilton Chicago- Michigan Ave Cultural Mile
Hotel Amenities
Hotel Amenities
This landmark 1927 Chicago Hilton hotel is three blocks from the Field Museum, four blocks from the Loop business district, and five from the Art Institute of Chicago. The 25-story Hilton Chicago overlooks Grant Park, Lake Michigan, Millennium Park, and the Museum Campus on Michigan Avenue's "Cultural Mile." The hotel is one block from CTA's Red Line train, which offers convenient transportation throughout the city.
The wide array of amenities includes a staffed business center, multiple restaurants, a beauty salon, an indoor pool, and a fitness center with an indoor running track. Tour and ticket assistance is available. The hotel is smoke-free and pet-friendly.
- Smoke-free property
- 24-hour front desk
- ATM/banking
- Number of floors - 25
- Valet parking (surcharge)
- Number of bars/lounges - 2
- Breakfast available (surcharge)
- Business center
- Coffee shop or café
- Elevator/lift
- Express check-in
- Fireplace in lobby
- Dry cleaning/laundry service
- Express check-out
- Gift shops or newsstand
- Hair salon
- Health club
- Grocery/convenience store
- Tours/ticket assistance
- WiFi (surcharge)
- Wired Internet access - surcharge
- Rooftop terrace
- Luggage storage
- Laundry facilities
- Concierge services
- Meeting rooms 50
- Multilingual staff
- Total number of rooms - 1,544
- Porter/bellhop
- Safe-deposit box at front desk
- Number of restaurants - 3
- Snack bar/deli
- Self parking (surcharge)
- Sauna
- Shopping on site
- Indoor pool
- Wedding services
- Year Built 1927
Family Friendly Amenities
- Family Hotel
- Indoor pool
- Grocery/convenience store
- Snack bar/deli
- Laundry facilities
Available in all rooms: Wired high-speed internet ( USD 12.95 per night ), Wired high-speed internet ( USD 12.95 per night )
Available in some public areas: Wired high-speed internet ( USD 12.95 per night ), Wired high-speed internet ( USD 12.95 per night )
Self parking (surcharge), Valet parking (surcharge)
Room Amenities
- Desk
- Premium bedding
- Free weekday newspaper
- Premium TV channels
- Designer toiletries
- Cribs/infant beds available
- Coffee/tea maker
- Hair dryer
- Iron/ironing board
- Daily housekeeping
- Hypo-allergenic bedding available
- In-room climate control (air conditioning)
- Air conditioning
- Phone
- Private bathroom
- Shower/tub combination
- Television
- Pillowtop mattress
- Cable TV service
- WiFi (surcharge)
- Wired Internet access (surcharge)
- In-room safe
- Room service (limited hours)
- Connecting/adjoining rooms available
- Rollaway/extra beds (surcharge)
Where to Eat
720 South Bar & Grill - Serving up comfort food for breakfast and lunch in a modern atmosphere. Guests can enjoy cocktails and locally crafted beer selections in the bar.
Kitty O'Shea's Irish Pub - With exchange students from Ireland working as servers, and Irish beers on tap, Kitty O'Shea's feels like a real Irish pub. The menu includes shepherd's pie, potato soup, and burgers. Local Irish bands play Thursday–Saturday nights, from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Herb N' Kitchen - One stop grab-and-go for coffee, light meals, gourmet bites, house-made gelato, Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, snacks, and beverages.
Nearby Things to Do
The spacious athletic club on the 8th floor of the Hilton Chicago-Michigan Avenue Cultural Mile contains an extensive array of exercise equipment including treadmills, elliptical machines, stationary bikes, and weight-resistance equipment. A lap pool, jogging track, and locker rooms with showers and saunas are additional offerings.
Access to the hotel's pool, track, locker rooms, showers, and saunas is complimentary. There is a surcharge for use of the fitness equipment and personal training. Guests may also request a treadmill for in-room use (surcharge).
Just through Grant Park, across from the Hilton, guests can access the lakefront path that runs along Lake Michigan for 20 miles (32 kilometers). Bicycles, in-line skates, and open-air, pedal-powered buggies can be rented at several beachfront locations.
The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or near the hotel; fees may apply.
- Sailing nearby
- Golfing nearby
- Bicycle rentals nearby
- Boat tours nearby
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please note them at check-out when you book your room.
- Accessible bathroom
- Roll-in shower
- In-room accessibility
Hotel Policies
Minimum check-in age is 18
Check-in time starts at 3 PM
Check-out time is 11 AM
Payment types
Children and extra beds
- Children are welcome.
- Kids stay free! Children 18 years old and younger stay free when using existing bedding.
- Rollaway/extra beds are available for USD 40.00 per night.
- Cribs (infant beds) are available.
- Pets allowed for an extra charge of USD 50 per accommodation, per stay
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy.
Optional extras
- Breakfast fee: USD 25 per person (approximately)
- Fee for in-room wireless Internet: USD 12.95 per night (rates may vary)
- Fee for in-room wired Internet: USD 12.95 per night (rates may vary)
- Fee for wireless Internet in public areas: USD 12.95 per night (rates may vary)
- Fee for wired Internet in public areas: USD 12.95 per night (rates may vary)
- Self parking fee: USD 61.00 per night
- Valet parking fee: USD 75.00 per day
- Pet fee: USD 50 per accommodation, per stay
- Rollaway bed fee: USD 40.00 per night
Hotel Name
- Chicago Hilton Michigan Ave
- Hilton Chicago Cultural Mile
- Hilton Chicago Michigan Ave Cultural Mile
- Hilton Michigan Ave Cultural Mile
- Hilton Michigan Ave Cultural Mile Hotel
- Hilton Michigan Ave Cultural Mile Hotel Chicago
- Hilton Chicago Michigan Ave Cultural Mile Hotel
We should mention
Children 18 years old and younger stay free when occupying the parent or guardian's room, using existing bedding. The property has connecting/adjoining rooms, which are subject to availability and can be requested by contacting the property using the number on the booking confirmation.
Parking Package
Guests who book a stay in a "Parking Package" rate category will receive complimentary self parking with in and out privileges and accommodations.


text: Second printing. Published with a digital code that may no longer be redeemable from the publisher. Do not purchase with the expectation that the code is still valid. The Uncanny X-Men come to the Jean Grey School to recruit. Who will join Cyclops and his revolutionary crew? The answer will shock you! Mystique and Sabretooth continue to hatch their master plan and it doesn't bode well for the All-New X-Men. $3.99 cover price.


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Workshop focuses on drawing for painting
January 17, 2012
Gardnerville artist Teri Sweeney will offer the three-day workshop, Drawing for Painting 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Feb. 3-5 at Sweeney's Studio in Gardnerville
The workshop will cover the basic principles of drawing, the grid system, drawing value shapes, one- and two-point perspective and drawing from life.
This focused workshop includes drawing exercises and handouts to help students understand the concepts and use them in future drawings for paintings. Emphasis will be placed on simplifying the drawing process and will help any painter who has not had the opportunity to discover some of the "tricks" to creating a good drawing.
The cost for three days is $150. Call 775-790-9261 or e-mail firstname.lastname@example.com for more information and to register.
Sweeney is a nationally recognized western artist who has participated in numerous juried shows including the Western Masters Art Show and Sale in Great Falls, Montana; Cowgirl Up! In Wickenburg, AZ and the San Dimas National Western Art Exhibition and Sale in San Dimas, California. Her work can be viewed at http://www.terisweeneyart.com.


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|Narrowing it down is tough, but here are my Top Ten Recipes for 2012 and ten more Honorable Mentions!
My Top Ten Picks:
Leftover Turkey Shepherd's Pie Casserole with Garlic-Parmesan Cauliflower Topping was so good that it would be a shame not to make it frequently with chicken as well.
And Ten Honorable Mentions:
More Favorite Recipes from the Past:
The Top Ten Recipes of 2011 - Plus Ten Honorable Mentions
Top Ten Recipes of 2010 - Plus Ten Honorable Mentions
Top Ten Recipes of 2009 - Plus Ten Honorable Mentions
The Best Recipes of 2008
The Best Recipes of 2007
What's Coming in January 2013?


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TRIBUTES have been paid to a grandmother-of-16 who has died following a mobility scooter accident in Burnley.
Dorothy Kenny, 71, was crossing Manchester Road on the scooter when she collided with a beige Fiat Panda at the junction of Gainsborough Avenue last Friday.
The mum-of-11 suffered serious head and leg injuries and was airlifted to Royal Preston Hospital, where she died yesterday.
Dorothy was born in Sydney, Australia, in 1942 and moved to England when she was 12 years old.
She met her husband of 50 years, Terrance, in London in 1962 and moved to Dover after being married in North London.
The couple moved up to Burnley in 1972 as their family expanded and Terrance found work as a chimney stacker.
Dorothy trained as a nurse and also completed two degrees and several A-levels at Burnley College while raising her children.
She was a keen painter and also enjoyed writing poetry and was a regular member of the congregation at St Mary's RC Church, in Burnley.
Her husband, Terrance, 75, said: "She was a wonderful person to be around and she was very funny.
"She was a great mum and she will be missed by the whole family.
"She was so family-orientated and she would always be doing something."
Her daughter Carolyn, 45, said: "Mum was such an active person and she would always be doing something. She loved her whole family and would always be going to and from London to visit everyone who lived down there.
"She always did a lot for charity and would always be sending bags off to them."
Her daughter Susan, 37, said: "She was a fantastic mum who was so caring and always looked out for other people.
She never had a bad word to say about anyone."


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Stopped bus? Stop car!
Nicholas County girl was struck by a vehicle that reportedly didn't stop for a bus in Summersville.West Virginia Superintendent of Schools Jorea Marple said it's unbelievable to her that so many drivers endanger young lives by passing busses that are loading and unloading students. She hopes awareness during next week's National Bus Safety Week will stop drivers from passing buses and empower children to protect themselves.Cameras have been outfitted on buses throughout the state to record license plates of vehicles that pass illegally, she said."Just because there's not a policemen around doesn't mean you won't be prosecuted," Marple said.She joined Charleston police officers, West Virginia State Police troopers, and members of the state Prosecuting Attorneys Institute on Friday to educate third-graders at Mary C. Snow's West Side Elementary School.The students took a school bus trip around the block with Marple and Charleston Patrolman Jamie Wilson to learn more about the dangers of getting on and off the bus.Wilson explained to the children that drivers aren't allowed to pass or drive near the school bus when its stop sign has been extended. He made them promise to never cross in front of the bus without the bus driver's approval or before they first look both ways. No driver violated the law during the trip Friday, but Marple said it occurs too often around the state, every day.On an average day, about 450 drivers pass stopped school buses, according to a 2012 survey of bus drivers from 50 of the state's 55 counties. About 40 drivers illegally pass buses in Kanawha County, according to the survey.State Police Sgt. Michael Baylous said violators often are distracted or unaware of a bus stop sign. He said he hopes a state law that bans texting while driving will also benefit school-zone safety.The girl who was struck in Summersville on Friday got off a school bus at about 2:40 p.m., said Allison Barker, a coordinator with the state Department of Education's communications office. The girl was taken to CAMC General Hospital to undergo surgery on a fractured leg and ankle, Barker said. Barker said her injuries were not life-threatening.In 2007, Haven McCarthy, 6, of Lincoln County, was killed when she was hit by a car that illegally drove around a school bus. The driver pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor and was fined $50.Lawmakers responded with Haven's Law, which makes it a felony to illegally pass a school bus. A driver who kills a child can now spend up to 10 years in prison.National School Bus Safety Week will be celebrated Oct. 22-26.Reach Travis Crum at email@example.com or 304-348-5163.
Jahlil Clements' story a reminder of the dangers of domestic abuse
Locals helped Boy Scouts cover up pedophilia


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Commissioner Vikki Tobak urged her colleagues to match Stanford's "firm commitment" of $15,000, which would go toward the installation of temporary rotating artworks in the University Avenue tunnel, located under Alma Street and the Palo Alto Caltrain station.
With more than 30 submissions, commissioners said the next step is for a selection committee to narrow it down to seven artists from whom they will request specific proposals. The committee is set to meet in August.
The commission will continue to raise funds in the meantime, hoping to reach a goal of $65,000.
The commission also discussed another temporary public art project in the works for downtown Palo Alto.
Anthony Discenza, an Oakland-based artist whose art has previously been on display at the Palo Alto Art Center, is proposing to transform what he calls "visual blank spots" in storefronts into temporary art installations. Discenza recently met with Tobak and Commissioner Trish Collins and walked around Palo Alto.
"One thing that he really honed in on was something that the City Council and community members have been talking about, which is all the startups in the storefronts," Tobak said. "He thought it was interesting that a lot of these seemingly empty storefronts or closed storefronts actually had very lively, vibrant businesses going on in there."
Discenza proposed putting in what look like traditional street signs, decorated with various adages that point with "tongue and cheek" to the vibrancy and competition that Palo Alto is known for, Tobak said. Previous signs he has created display text such as "Stop dreaming, start living, stop thinking, start loving" and "We wondered at unfamiliar sensations and realized with joy that they were doubts."
The signs would be installed for several months throughout downtown.
Many commissioners voiced concerns that it would be difficult to convince startups or businesses to display such art in their storefronts. Tobak said that Discenza has also proposed alternative venues, such as putting the street signs up on the street or creating stencils on sidewalks.
Discenza's proposal is pending the commission's approval, depending on a few clarifications on the medium and specific wording he will use.
The commission also welcomed a few younger visitors at its meeting, with a group of children presenting an update on the Aurora project, an interactive light sculpture of a tree to be installed in front of City Hall this fall.
Most recently, they were at the Maker Faire in May, creating more than 200 copper leaves that will hang from the sculpture. The leaves are meant to serve as wind chimes and will be illuminated by 40,000 LED lights at night.
The project has raised $25,000 so far, with $75,000 to go. Artist Charles Gadeken and Palo Alto resident Harry Hirschman said they hope to install the sculpture in late October or early November.


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Lameness is a huge - if not the single biggest - animal-welfare challenge facing the dairy industry. "Lameness is a really big issue," says Temple Grandin, well-known Colorado State University animal scientist and animal behavior consultant.
Most experts agree the incidence of lameness in the dairy industry lies between 25 and 30 percent, which is unacceptably high. It also is largely underestimated on farm.
"If you ask someone, 'What percentage of your cows do you think are lame?' two studies have shown that they underestimate it by about half," Grandin said during a recent lameness webinar hosted by Dairy Herd Management.
Lameness also is one of the most costly diseases to the dairy industry, affecting fertility, cow survival and milk production.
Now there also is evidence linking body condition score and lameness. In fact, it suggests poor body condition is a cause, not a consequence, of lameness. Here's why body condition is an important risk factor for lameness that demands your attention.
An overlooked cause
Lameness is often the result of poor facility design, cow comfort and management. Poor body condition, on the other hand, has long been thought of as an unfortunate outcome of lameness, not part of the cause. Evidence contradicting this perception was first published by Cornell University researchers in the July 2009 issue of the Journal of Dairy Science.
The study found an association between overall body condition and the thickness of the fatty tissue in the digital cushion of the hoof.
"So the better condition (cows) are in, the more digital cushion they will have," explains Rodrigo Bicalho, veterinary researcher at Cornell University.
Conversely, cows with low body condition have thinner digital cushions, which sets them up for lameness problems.
"If you look at your hand, the cushion in the palm of your hand is equivalent to the cushion that cows have in their foot inside the claw," Bicalho says. "We also have it on the bottom of our feet."
Where lameness starts
In the cow, the digital cushion lies between a bone in the claw called the third phalanx and the corium tissue beneath it. (Please see "Where lameness starts" figure to the right.)
"The function of the digital cushion is to dampen the compression that is exerted (on the corium) by the body, by the bones in the legs," Bicalho says. "It's part of (her) suspension system. It's the same thing we have in cars… to help absorb impact."
Less digital cushion translates into increased trauma to the corium, which can result in sole ulcers and white line disease, the telltale hoof lesions associated with lameness.
"Sole ulcers are a disruption or interruption of horn production by the corium," Bicalho explains. "Then you also have the abscesses, most commonly white line disease, which is also a consequence of trauma to the corium tissue."
Early lactation: a critical time period
Vigilance during early lactation is especially important for heading off lameness associated with poor body condition.
"As cows go through body condition loss in early lactation, the actual fat pad (digital cushion) decreases in thickness, too," says Gerard Cramer, consulting veterinarian with Cramer Mobile Bovine Veterinary Services in Stratford, Ontario, Canada. "There's a relationship between the thickness of that fat pad and the incidence of ulcers and white line disease."
The Cornell study found that thinning of the digital cushion was most prominent during the 120-day window after calving. This is when body fat reserves are summoned by the cow to make milk.
Loss in thickness of the digital cushion seemed to bottom out around 120 days in milk, Bicalho says, "and after that it starts to recover."
However, the damage has already been done to the sensitive tissues in the hoof that are at risk for injury.
Early intervention needed
Close monitoring of body condition and corrective action to fix problems needs to begin as early as the dry period.
A study published in the October 2011 issue of the American Journal of Veterinary Research shows that body condition during the dry period can be an indicator of lameness after calving.
"We can predict which cows will become lame in the subsequent lactation based on data collected during the dry period," Bicalho says.
Continued vigilance of body condition is vital when lactation commences.
"The ideal body condition score at the beginning of lactation should be between 3.0 and 3.25," Bicalho says. Intervention to alleviate lameness problems associated with low body condition scores doesn't have to be complex. It can be something as basic as changing milking frequency.
A clinical trial published in 2011 in the Canadian Journal of Veterinary Research found that when milking frequency decreased from 3X to 2X, the body condition scores of lame cows increased and their rate of recovery improved — all without jeopardizing milk yields. (Please see "2X vs. 3X milking" above)
"(With 2x milking), you can speed up recovery from lameness, yet still maintain the same levels of milk production," Bicalho says.
"We need to start measuring lameness," says Colorado State's Grandin. "(You) need to actually count it, otherwise you won't manage it."
Given its link to lameness, you now have good reason to extend that philosophy to body condition.


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Friday, April 15, 2011
Oklahoma now has an official "Second Amendment Day" in the state.
Gov. Mary Fallin on Thursday signed a bill designating June 28 of each year as "Second Amendment Day" in Oklahoma.
Read Original at: The Associated Press
Legal & Legislation
Wednesday, September 20, 2017
Most concealed-carry permit holders understand the potential pitfalls of traveling with a firearm, given the outrageous patchwork of state laws involved in even a short interstate trip. And while we haven't posted much about reciprocity ...
Friday, September 15, 2017
Gun owners received good news this week with the passage of the SHARE Act by the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources (see related story). Meanwhile, progress continued to be made on another NRA legislative ...
As we have reported, this year's version of the SHARE Act is the most expansive and far-reaching yet. Besides previously-introduced provisions aimed at enhancing opportunities for hunting, fishing, and shooting and broadening access to federal lands ...
In a special meeting on August 29, the nine-member City Council of Sacramento unanimously agreed to allocate $1.5 million in funding and to move forward with a "gun-violence reduction strategy" that will include cash payments ...
Billionaire anti-gunner Michael Bloomberg is at it again, pledging to spend $1 million through his gun control group Everytown for Gun Safety in an attempt to impact Virginia's upcoming elections for governor and attorney general.
Thursday, September 21, 2017
As soon as the Hearing Protection Act was put forward on Jan. 9, 2017, leftists came out of the woodwork to criticize and misconstrue the goals of those who supported removing suppressors from the auspices ...
Tuesday, September 19, 2017
Today, Senate Bill 169 passed the Senate Judiciary Committee with a vote of 3-2. SB 169 would allow for the concealed carry of a firearm without a concealed carry license anywhere in the state where ...
Wednesday, September 13, 2017
"Today marks an important step in protecting the Second Amendment freedoms of America's hunters and sportsmen and strengthening our outdoor heritage," said Chris W. Cox, executive director, NRA-ILA. "The SHARE Act will cut burdensome red tape that restricts ...
Friday, September 8, 2017
On Sept. 1, U.S. Congressman Jeff Duncan introduced H.R. 3668, the Sportsman's Heritage and Recreational Enhancement Act (SHARE Act), a wide-ranging package of legislation aimed at promoting Second Amendment rights and America's outdoor sporting traditions.
This week, twice-failed presidential candidate Hillary Clinton released her new book, "What Happened," which chiefly serves to assign blame to the myriad politicians, journalists, organizations, countries, prejudices, and technologies she claims caused her defeat. Gun ...
Canada: Pledge on gun registry
Established in 1975, the Institute for Legislative Action (ILA) is the "lobbying" arm of the National Rifle Association of America. ILA is responsible for preserving the right of all law-abiding individuals in the legislative, political, and legal arenas, to purchase, possess and use firearms for legitimate purposes as guaranteed by the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
Receive important and timely information in defense of your second amendment rights.
© 2017 National Rifle Association of America, Institute for Legislative Action. This may be reproduced. This may not be reproduced for commercial purposes. 11250 Waples Mill Rd. Fairfax, VA 22030 1-800-392-8683(VOTE)


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RURAL GP surgeries in North Yorkshire could face closure unless immediate action is taken to stave off a funding crisis, a health watchdog has warned.
Conservative-controlled North Yorkshire County Council's scrutiny of health committee has heard many doctors in the region fear the phasing out of a payment scheme which supports them will leave huge shortfalls.
One estimates his practice could lose about £78,000 a year.
The Minimum Practice Income Guarantee (MPIG) system is used to provide compensation to small practices in remote areas, topping up their core funding, but it is now set to be axed in April under Government plans.
Prime Minister David Cameron has previously said he would "personally" look into the implications of the proposals.
Coun Jim Clark, who chairs the scrutiny committee, has written to NHS England – the main body responsible for commissioning GP services – following a meeting this week.
He said the danger to rural surgeries needed to be urgently addressed, as the MPIG withdrawal could leave some communities with inadequate local health care if doctors decide their practice is no longer viable.
He said: "We have great concern over the long-term funding of GP services in North Yorkshire.
"It is essential that practices are properly funded, particularly in rural areas where the cost of providing local access is so much higher."
Foreign Secretary and Richmond MP William Hague recently chaired a meeting on health-care services in his constituency.
He has said the "unique difficulties" of providing care in rural areas needs to be factored into funding decisions.
The Department of Health said phasing out MPIG was intended to achieve "better value" for the NHS by preventing some practices receiving thousands of pounds more in funding than others with similar patient numbers and needs.
It said any changes would be introduced over seven years to allow practices to adapt gradually.


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Keep kids learning
Worried your kid forgets everything they've learnt when not at school? Here's how to keep their brain sharp. more
Facebook. Or Crackbook, as some mothers call the addictive social networking site that allows you to keep up with friends without having to pack the nappy bag, organise the pram and go on the expedition to the real world. Facebook can be more addictive than a warm doona on a wintery day - but it's easy to make a Facebook faux pas when you're er behind a keyboard and computer screen.
It's one thing to start discovering the joy of posting pics of your pride and joy - it's quite another to post 200 of them. Yes, we are interested in seeing your precious bundle, but probably not as much as you hope. We are especially not interested in seeing pictures of nappies or babies eating. Food smeared all over a baby's face is truly something only a mother can love. The rule is: if you wouldn't post a picture of an adult in the same situation, don't do the same to your baby!
No-one likes seeing a bad photo of themselves, even if they are standing next to someone who looks fabulous. Just because you like how you appear in a photo doesn't mean you should tag all your friends who may not be so happy with their own appearance. Whenever you tag someone in a photo it goes into an automated live feed that friends of your friend can see. Of course if she's Facebook clued up, your friend will have blocked tagged photos completely, so as to avoid an accidental photo tag disaster, but chances are she hasn't (see privacy settings below), so you're better off only tagging your friend when she's looking her best.
We all know that when you have a baby your world shrinks to the size of your newborn. It's an amazing time in your life and you're right to share it with your friends on Facebook. This only becomes an issue when breastfeeding, nappy changes and baby sleep are the only things you ever talk about with your friends. While mummy-friends are the lifeblood of all new mums, it's not worth alienating those non-parent buddies who you hope will be inviting you to dinner parties, barbecues and social events once you get past the dirty nappies and dummies stage of life.
OK, we're probably all guilty of this one because, well, kids are so darn funny at times! Occasionally posting a wall post about your son's toilet training mishaps, the time your toddler asked you where babies come from while in the supermarket checkout queue, or uploading the picture of your baby's first solid food disaster is just part of the fun of social networking. Be careful though that you're not developing a rep for being 'that mum', who ONLY posts when her kids say, or do, something embarrassing. Remember, it might come back to bite you when your kids are old enough to get their own Facebook profiles and post about the 'annoying things my mum does'.
It's astounding how many people don't take advantage of privacy settings to stop unwanted geezers or marketing companies from ogling all aspects of their Facebook lives. But when your kids are involved, there's no excuse not to! It's easy enough to do to - simply go to the 'account' menu in the top right hand corner and select 'privacy settings'. Also, make sure you always set the privacy settings of your facebook photo albums too. The default is for them to be available to everyone - that means the whole internet, potentially, so it's worth making the effort to protect your family.
You probably much prefer the gazillion photos of your too-cute bub than the three of you that you would consider uploading as your profile pic, but your Facebook page is YOUR page, not your new baby's, pet dog or even your potted cactus. Sure changing your profile picture is fun, but just remember that only ever uploading photos of your baby as your mug shot gets a bit old, just like your 'Rachel from Friends' haircut in that profile pic in the 1990s!
Become a fan of Kidspot on Facebook!