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Friday, April 9, 1999 Published at 16:30 GMT 17:30 UK
Patriotic Belgraders protect bridges
Serbian TV has been showing crowds of defiant Belgraders wearing target symbols and linking arms to form human chains across two of the city's main bridges.
The Yugoslav state news agency said Belgraders would form a human chain again on the Pancevo bridge on Friday night.
On the Branko bridge the crowd was heard chanting "Yugoslavia," and the TV showed them holding a huge Yugoslav flag.
Before Friday's news bulletin the TV showed shots of Yugoslav air force jets with a hard rock soundtrack.
Patriotic images
There have been regular broadcasts of patriotic images of Yugoslav soldiers and landscapes accompanied by a romantic song.
The TV has also shown pictures of a maternity hospital without a commentary - just the sound of babies crying - followed by shots of burning buildings and the noise of flames crackling.
The news bulletin began with a report on Yugoslav President Slobodan Milosevic's meeting in Belgrade on Thursday with Hungarian Workers' Party leader Gyula Thuermer.
It went on to report a statement by Gennady Seleznev, Speaker of the Russian State Duma, who quoted President Boris Yeltsin saying he supported Mr Milosevic's request to include Yugoslavia in the Russia-Belarus Union.
Mr Seleznev, who returned to Moscow from Belgrade on Thursday, was speaking to deputies in the Duma, where there have been numerous calls for Russia to provide military help to Yugoslavia.
Nato raids
The report continued with news of the latest Nato air raids and showed a devastated factory in Kragujevac. Tanjug news agency said the Zastava car factory and the town's heating plant were hit.
The TV also showed a huge oil fire in Smederevo, southeast of Belgrade. The independent Belgrade-based news agency Beta said Nato had attacked a fuel depot.
Tanjug said one missile fell in a densely populated part of Staro Selo village in Jagodina, central Serbia, but did not explode.
The agency said there were reports that ''the Nato terrorist organisation'' had fired two missiles at a Serbian radio and television transmitter on Mt Crni Vrh early on Thursday following a previous attack on the area on 6 April.
Drone shot down
Serbian TV also showed the wreckage of a Nato reconnaissance drone which it said was shot down by Yugoslav anti-aircraft fire in Kosovo.
It said the drone had been recovered and an identification plate indicated it was manufactured in Israel.
Sergeant Sasa Mitic, who reportedly downed the drone, said: ''I managed to shoot it down through sheer luck or something else.
''The distance was great, so the target kept disappearing from view, merging with the surrounding terrain and the sky."


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>Health and Nutrition>New Book on Nutrition
I have started reading Diet for Dancers by Robin Chmelar and Sally Fitt. I wasn't sure if it was the right book for me (since I'm not exactly a dancer), but so far I like it. It it incredibly in-depth when it comes to explaining how the body digests food and derives nutrients. Also, it seems to me that it focuses on developing a unique diet/nutritional plan that suits your activity level.
Anyway, I've only started reading it and have little experience with starting any kind of nutrition/diet plan. I eat a balanced diet but don't go out of my way to think about what I eat or how it affects my running or my other exercises.
What are your experiences with starting a regimented nutritional plan? What tips can you offer?

subset: commoncrawl


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Metro says it is planning to suspend its aggressive schedule of track work during the cherry blossom season beginning in March.
The transit system says there will be no scheduled weekend track work on Metrorail from March 24 through April 15 because of National Cherry Blossom Festival events. On weekdays, there will be no track work during the day from March 26 through April 13. Track work will take place after 10 p.m. during the season.
Metro says it also plans to add eight-car trains during off-peak hours and on weekends to accommodate higher ridership.
The agency says its ridership increases by an average of more than 15 percent during the cherry blossom season.
Published at 7:57 AM EST on Feb 23, 2012 | Updated at 1:08 PM EDT on Mar 20, 2015


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Punch Needle Embroidery
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December 2011. 20 – Sajou Embroidery Al – Beautiful Monograms! 18 – Free Hand Embroidery Pattern: Snowflake! November 2011. 22 – Evolution of an Embroidery Pattern
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Here at Review Centre we work hard to make sure we are the best place on the internet for honest, unbiased consumer reviews - we are grateful for your help in keeping us that way!
Written on: 02/01/2014
Ordered boarding jacket as Christmas present for my son, arrived before 10am next day. Jacket as described at excellent price.


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Times are hard, and the Old Savannah City Mission is asked to provide more services for more people even as donations are dropping. On Thursday, the Savannah Philharmonic eased that burden by presenting a check for $2,500 to the charity.
"It's a wonderful blessing at a time that we need it," said Bill Stiles, interim executive director of Old Savannah City Mission. "The J months (January, June and July) are always difficult months in fundraising."
The slump in the economy means that donations are down more than usual. "That means a double whammy," Stiles said.
"More people are coming through, eating and sleeping here at night," he said. "We had to open the floor in the sanctuary for people to sleep on cots."
An increase in numbers of people needing help means higher expenses. "The electric and utility bills, everything goes up for us," Stiles said. "When people of goodwill come in and bless us with that type of gift, it is a great blessing."
Impressed by the mission's operation and its good works, the Savannah Philharmonic chose to donate 50 percent from each $100 ticket sold for its season's finale performance on May 27 at the Lucas Theater. Over the years, several local nonprofits have benefited, including the United Way, Red Cross and 200 Club, said David Pratt, executive director of the Savannah Philharmonic.
"We do that because we think it's important that beyond the presented concerts and music events that we also support the community," he said. "There's a huge need in the community at the moment in so many areas. Our audiences, through our concerts, can support not only the Philharmonic, but other organizations, as well."
The mission was chosen because of the number of people it reaches. "We are so impressed with the work of the Old Savannah City Mission," Pratt said. "The grassroots work they do in the community is just extraordinary."


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From the vote tally on the CBS site it would seem that Will/Boogie, Jeff/Jordan and Dick/Danielle are way ahead of the others.
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From the vote tally on the CBS site it would seem that Will/Boogie, Jeff/Jordan and Dick/Danielle are way ahead of the others.
I really liked Will! he was a magnificent player! I dont really want to see any of them come back. I can always mute Rachael if she shows up again:monkeybum
The best part about this whole voting for the duo that you would like to see returning is to imagine that you are Jesse and Natalie and you go to the CBS site and see that 1% of the viewers voted for you. And I think the 1% is probably pity votes.
Would love to see some chill town DR session's !
well - note that it doesn't say who do you WANT to return, I don't think this is us voting on who we want in. It says who do you think will return.
As for Dick - I couldn't stand him on the feeds either. But, the only saving grace here would be if it is Hayden/Enzo and/or Brendon/Rachel, I could get behind watching Dick tear them apart. But, I also don't think that two of the pairs will be from the same season.
I bet MAYBE only 1 of the pairs on that poll will come into the house. The other 2 will just be whoever.
Like Ashley posted, the poll says which pair do you want to come back into the house, not vote & whoever gets the most votes will return. Plus, it's starting to broadcast on the 7th, so isn't everyone in the house now?
& like Karalott, I wish they would just "cast" a range or normal people. Maybe they should do a cast of people that don't have jobs because of the recession. Give them reward challenges that will send money/food/gifts to their families back home.
I bet the duos returning will not even be on that list. If you read it it only says "Which former dynamic duo do you think will return to the Big Brother house?" We are not voting on who is coming back but only who we think might be.


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Wolff gets F1 practice chance
Susie Wolff will this season become the first woman in 22 years to compete in a Formula One event.
Wolff will take part in first practice before the British and German Grands Prix as part of her expanded development driver role with Williams.
The 31-year-old Scot has played an integral part in the development of the last three Williams cars, including the FW36 that will take to the track in Melbourne for the Australian Grand Prix in less than three weeks' time.
Not since Giovanna Amati, who failed to qualify in the 1992 Brazilian Grand Prix at Interlagos for Brabham, has a woman taken part in an F1 event.
Wolff said: "The plan just now is for the British Grand Prix and the German Grand Prix.
"I've driven the car at Silverstone last year, so I have a bit of experience with the track, and Hockenheim I know well from my time in German touring cars, so for me it's two great races to be a part of."
Looking to the future, she added: "If you can take part in the Friday practice sessions then, of course, you have to be looking to doing an actual race.
"I said the minute I joined Williams that I didn't want to run before I could walk; for me it's about doing a good job each step of the way and, if I do that in the practice sessions, then the next natural progression will be taking part in a race."
Wolff is aware of the significance of her next challenge and believes she has earned the opportunity.
"It's not about being a woman, it's about being the absolute best you can be in the sport," she said.
"I'm grateful for the support and belief Williams continue to show in me, and 2014 promises to be a very important milestone in my career.
"My responsibilities within the team have steadily increased as I have proved myself, culminating in the opportunity to test the car at Silverstone and conduct straight-line aero tests last season.
"Competing in two FP1 sessions, alongside an additional full test day, this season will be a big step and I am looking forward to the opportunity to get behind the wheel of the car on a Grand Prix weekend.
"It's a challenge I will relish, and it will be a great chance for me to continue assisting the team."
Williams' chief technical officer Pat Symonds believes Wolff has more than earned her chance.
Symonds said: "Susie has become a valued member of our driver line-up and 2014 will see her take on more responsibilities as we seek to make a strong step forward in performance.
"Susie has demonstrated a natural talent for developing a car and providing strong feedback and these sort of characteristics will be key this season as teams seek to quickly understand and refine the radically overhauled 2014 cars."
The news of Wolff's F1 drive comes just 10 days after Sauber announced Simona De Silvestro would become an affiliated driver with the team, working her way towards gaining the necessary superlicence to compete in the sport.


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It was "Back in Black" night as the Roy Royals hosted the Mountain Crest Mustangs Friday. Royal Pride also was back as Roy defeated Mountain Crest 17-14 behind quarterback Garrett Bowman.
"Back in Black" was the slogan of the 1981 Roy High Royals state champions in football. On Friday, the Royals invited members of the 1981 team and coaching staff to the game. The Roy alumni were recognized during halftime. In 1981, the Royals played the Bountiful Braves for the second straight season to decide the state champions. Bountiful had beaten Roy the previous season, but in 1981, the Royals got their revenge, defeating the Braves 17-13.
"Oh it was great, the team came out, we played really well," Roy quarterback Bowman said about winning on "Back in Black" night. "We struggled in the first half a little bit. We came out and had a good second half, so it was a good win to send us out on a good note."
Mountain Crest took the lead into halftime 7-3 in what was a defensive first half battle. Both teams were held scoreless through the first quarter. Bowman scored on a quarterback sneak with 3:52 remaining in the third quarter, making the score 10-7.5 comments on this story
Later, Bowman threw what would be the winning touchdown with 10 minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, putting Roy ahead 17-7. Bowman threw a six-yard pass caught by Jake Trujillo in the end zone. Mountain Crest scored late in the fourth quarter on a 30-yard throw and run touchdown, tightening the score at 17-14.
Roy gave Mountain Crest some life when the Mustangs intercepted a ball thrown in the end zone with 2:34 remaining in the game. Roy's defense stood up to the challenge and forced a Mountain Crest turnover on downs, sealing the game for the Royals' win.


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Badly wounded in Afghanistan when the helicopter she is piloting goes down under enemy fire, Captain Quinn Briscoe is struggling to rebuild her life. Facing not only a disfiguring injury, but a medical discharge and the end of a serious relationship, Quinn increasingly shuts herself - and her heart - off from the rest of the world. Her first meeting with lovely, self-confident and successful business owner Alison Jenkins is disastrous, and Quinn feels an instant antipathy for the woman, along with an undeniable attraction.
Trying to get along for the sake of her sister Rebekah, who's gone to work for Allie, Quinn offers to fly the attractive boutique owner to a family wedding. However, what should have been a quick one day trip to the mountains of North Carolina suddenly turns into a long weekend at a romantic lodge. When a series of circumstances makes it increasingly clear that Quinn won't be able to deny the growing passion between them much longer, will she be able to put the scars of the past aside to build a relationship with Allie worth fighting for?
©2014 Lila Bruce (P)2016 Lila Bruce
"A Simple but Nice Story"
So narrator was okay. I felt when she was speaking as a character she was pretty good but when just narrating she was a bit monotone and a bit nonchalant. I liked the book because it was simple and sweet read and the Audio is decent enough. I don't regret getting it.
"Sweet Lesbian Road Trip-Story/Narration Well Done!"
I enjoyed this story very much. The story is not especially deep, but it is engaging and sweet. The characters are not complicated, but they are very well developed, relatable, and interesting. If you're looking for a quick, easy feel good listen, this is a great choice. There is just a tiny bit of stereotyping as we follow two women over a weekend trip where they experience, initial dislike of each other, followed by mutual attraction, and a quick jump to romance & even some steamy sex. But there is also touching and comedic moments that will make you smile and maybe even laugh out loud! Definitely worth a listen!
The humor of all the characters.
Too short which I think made it feel a little rushed at times.
Yes. Liked all of the ones I have read.
I did.
Love and humor. What more could you ask for.
"Listenable Again and Again"
This short novel, super novella is in my top ten list in the lesbian fiction genre. The two major protagonists are both very likable, although Quinn pushes that factor pretty hard in their second meeting before redeeming herself in their third. Allie's cousin and business partner Amanda is a forgettable character but Quinn's sister Rebecca is good and Allie's Aunt Marge is a hoot. It was particularly funny when she asked Quinn if she and Allie lesbianed together. In my opinion this one is a can't miss listening experience, enjoy.
"pretty good listen"
I enjoyed it. I was doing my puzzle while listening to the audio. It was cute; that's the word I would use to describe the book.
"Loved this Lebanese Love Story"
Another jewel from the mind of LB -- great story -- rememberable characters! So in depth into the mind of a military soldier who finally finding love in the strangest places! Great great great -- ready for the sequel Ms Bruce! Write another Lebanese story!! Lol
"Short but sweet, predictable though..."
This story has some good lines, quite humourous, could have done more of that and less of chapter 18, we don't need a really long description of a kiss! It's like how to kuss 101...more engagement and depth to the story would've been better. Likeable characters, but that's about it really. If I were the editor of that book I would've sent it back to the author with remarks-less filler, more story expansion. Narrator did her best. If you want a light quick read, skip a few predictable chapters, this book fills that slot.
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A blogging friend of mine is OBSESSED with her Clarisonic. And after many years of living the broke college kid lifestyle, I finally managed to scrounge up enough money (read: I love being employed) to buy me a Clarisonic! I almost purchased my Clarisonic Mia—the compact easy to carry and travel with version of the original Clarisonic—from Sephora, but I rembered O.co is the place to go for online deals on ANYTHING. The Clarisonic Mia cost me $129.95 in comparison to its $150 price tag on Sephora.com.
After the first use of my Clarisonic, my skin felt tingly fresh. I used my face wash, then the cleanser that came in the box. I noticed that by using the cleanser provided, my skin was clearer and my makeup came off better than with my face wash. So far I'm liking it. I have yet to see my skin become less oily. But then again, I literally just started using my Clarisonic two days ago.
Do you have a Clarisonic? What do you think of yours?


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switching to armour, how long to take effect?
I switched to 90 mcg armour from 125 mcg levothyroxine several days ago and don't feel any difference yet.Only symptom is tiredness.
Here's my test score which were normal 16 months ago and have been fairly stable for 16 years and changed to this:
free t3-2.6
t4 free-1.58
reverse t3 serum-25.4
thyroid peroxidase ab-97
Thanks for any input!
Re: switching to armour, how long to take effect?
The length of time it takes to get benefit changing brand/dose is individual. But I can tell you, it won't be instant. You'll feel changes gradually, usually over the course of weeks to months. Since your TSH was so high when the switch was made, it demonstrates that your levoT dose was inadequate. You may need an Armour dose increase if this one doesn't do the job.
Re: switching to armour, how long to take effect?
thanks for the info.Just found this site and it's great to have help with this.
The only thing I changed to see such a hike in my numbers was selenium which was recommended to me for the thyroid.Anyone take this?Now I'm wondering if I should stop.Any opinions?
Re: switching to armour, how long to take effect?
Selenium wouldn't make things worse. At best, it would reduce TPO antibodies somewhat and help with the conversion of T4 to T3. But it would not increase TSH or reduce T4/T3.
I'm not really sure exactly what causes the condition to worsen over time. It probably has to do with the gland continuing to fail even after we begin treatment years to decades earlier. But don't quote me on that. ;) Sometimes, things just aren't so easy to explain.
Welcome to the board. :wave:
Hope we can continue to be of help to you.
Good luck with the Armour!
|All times are GMT -7. The time now is 11:45 AM.


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Interim manager Rafael Benitez admitted Chelsea had thrown away the chance of a victory over Southampton by failing to kill off the game when they were on top.
Chelsea led 2-0 at half-time, courtesy of goals from Demba Ba and Eden Hazard, and appeared to be cruising to a first home win since before Christmas.
But Rickie Lambert pulled Southampton back into the game with a header three minutes after coming off the bench and Jason Puncheon then secured a 2-2 draw with a brilliant volley.
''We should have won,'' Benitez said.
''We didn't take out chances when we had them. I said we would have to be more clinical and today was the same.
''We had situations where we could score. We didn't and they broke on a counter-attack. We gave them hope they could score and they did it.
''I was talking to the team at half-time, trying to say 'we have to score a third goal'.
''I think for us we cannot be happy drawing at home. I am disappointed.
''When you know your players and what they can do it is disappointing.
''We have to think how we can improve for the next one.''
Chelsea beat Southampton 5-1 in the FA Cup just 11 days ago but the Saints arrived at Stamford Bridge with a different game-plan and manager Nigel Adkins urged them not to panic at the interval.
''We know Chelsea are a good side. We knew if we opened up the space they have players who can hurt you,'' Adkins said.
''We came with a game-plan to be compact and frustrate the opposition. It was a big call to leave Rickie Lambert out but we wanted to make sure we were in the game.
''At half-time it was 2-0 and I said, 'stick to the game-plan'. If we had gone and chased it there was every chance we could have ended up with a scoreline like Aston Villa, who conceded eight here.
''We stuck at it. Rickie came on and scored the goal and what a fantastic goal it was for the second one.
''Not many teams will come back from two goals down against Chelsea.''
Adkins said he had no updates on Southampton's pursuit of Norwegian defender Vegard Forren and he had no knowledge of reports that he was in the crowd at Stamford Bridge.


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Geoduck quota within reach for Lower Elwha Klallam tribe despite China's ban
By Paul Gottlieb
Peninsula Daily News
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Although the Chinese market normally consumes about 90 percent of the Klallam harvest, the tribe's geoduck buyers have largely recovered by selling product in Asia — including China, tribal Fisheries Manager Doug Morrill said Monday.
Buyers are contravening the ban by going through Canada and Hong Kong to get restricted American geoducks to China, he said.
Morrill said the ban, imposed in December about a month before the busy Chinese New Year season, caused about $100,000 in revenue losses to the tribe's fleet of 18 dive boats.
"The timing was absolutely the worst," Morrill said.
Chinese officials imposed the ban in December in part after shipment of geoducks from Poverty Bay near Federal Way tested above that country's standards for inorganic arsenic.
They also said there were high levels of paralytic shellfish poisoning, or PSP, in a shipment traced to southeast Alaska.
The tribe's geoduck management year ends March 31.
"I think we are sitting pretty good," Morrill said.
"Some of the buyers are Canadian.
"They end up buying product, crossing the border and shipping to China that way," he said.
"Other buyers have been able to get product to Hong Kong and over to China
"The buyers themselves are figuring out ways to get product to China."
Other burgeoning markets include Vietnam and Korea, but China accounts for about 90 percent of the tribe's market.
"Any of the Asian countries are expanding markets for geoduck," Morrill said.
Jamestown S'Klallam officials did not return calls for comment on how the ban has affected the tribe.
The Lower Elwha and Jamestown S'Klallam tribes extract geoducks from the same management area.
The Lower Elwha have "usual and accustomed" areas where they harvest geoduck in Jefferson County along the Hood Canal, but it is part of a different management area within which the tribe's quota has already been reached, Morrill said.
Both the Lower Elwha Klallam and Jamestown S'Klallam tribes take part in a fishery in the Strait of Juan de Fuca in which 391,613 pounds of clams are allotted during the management year participating tribes, with the same poundage allotted to the state of Washington, Morrill said.
With an average clam weighting about 2.5 pounds, according to Morrill, that's more than 156,000 individual geoducks that can be harvested by participating tribes in the Strait of Juan de Fuca management area until March 31.
The calculation does not take into account larger geoducks, which Morrill has seen reach a weight of 6.5 pounds.
Divers harvest the clams in deep water where they may have grown for decades.
To meet the demand for live clams, the shellfish are packed on ice and shipped by air to Asian markets.
The state Department of Health issued 757 shipping certificates in January — more than double the 373 certificates issued in January 2013, when shipments were still going to China.
The certificates must identify the shellfish-growing area and ensure that a given shipment of seafood is safe to eat.
Of the certificates issued, 409 designated shipments to Hong Kong, while 243 designated shipments to Vietnam.
Other smaller shipment amounts were to Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia.
After shipments were closed off to China, no certificates were issued to that country.
Prices escalate by $2-$3 a pound during the Chinese New Year season.
Shipments of clams are harvested after they are ordered, Morrill said.
Paul McCollum, natural resources director for the Port Gamble S'Klallam tribe, said the ban has not slowed down harvests or caused price declines.
"We have been lucky," McCollum said.
"But this (import ban) is a worry, because China is such a huge market."
Senior Staff Writer Paul Gottlieb can be reached at 360-452-2345, ext. 5060, or at firstname.lastname@example.com.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Last modified: February 10. 2014 7:02PM


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June 27, 2016
Traore, Zouma, Cuadrado… 10 Chelsea players Antonio Conte could turn into superstars
The departing Italy boss is expected to restore glory at Stamford Bridge this coming season.
The ex-Juventus boss could succeed if he adds some star quality within the Blues' ranks.
However there is still plenty of talent left in the roster and the new manager needs to invest in it.
This way Conte could create superstars without breaking the bank.
But who are the players the Italian could turn into club greats?
Check out our gallery above for more.


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300.00 I spent in a while...the main reason for me buying the Xoom was the
great DEV support that comes with it...hope you enjoy yours
I was looking to upgrade my iPad...and was actually thinking of going with either an Asus or Acer android tablet. It came down to getting an Acer as they were getting ICS in a few weeks...I was surprised in my continuing research that the Xoom already had ICS! I looked on Craigslist and scored one there for a VERY good price. I am very happy with it. A bit different and more technical than the iPad, but so far its been a great experience. I love the widgets and everything seems to be working well. So far the only thing I'm still trying to figure out is when to actually use my MicroSD card. Xoom has 32gb and has not run out of space...so I have a 32gb SD card sitting in the slot without any content!
The best thing is to load it up with media files--any music, video, pictures--that you aren't streaming. Also, you can point any backups to the microsd card to keep them safe and save space in your internal storage. 32G seems like a lot, but it will fill up fast if you do a lot of high def gaming, etc.
Have fun!
Thanks! I am having fun downloading a bunch of apps from the multiple markets. I check first on Google's market...then go to the others. Is there a way to install/put the apps on the SD card? I've heard of something called Apps2SD - but from what I'm reading, I don't think that's the right app and probably doesn't work in ICS. I did download some gameloft game yesterday, and that thing is HUGE.
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Results 1 to 7 of 7
Thread: Tampa area skiing/boarding
12-23-2008, 05:40 PM #1Senior Member
- Join Date
- Jan 2008
- Location
- Pensacola, FL
- Posts
- 1,584
Tampa area skiing/boarding
I will be in the Tampa/Lutz area for a few days this week and weekend (25-29 Dec). If you need a driver, observer, skier, or boarder in your boat, please let me know.
We will be going back before New Year's so we won't be able to ride with you then.
Paul1997 MasterCraft 205
2008 Moomba Outback
1999 MasterCraft Sportstar OB
1992 MasterCraft 205
1999 Malibu Response LX
1987 Marlin Magnum Skier
We will be have a late Christmas with parents from out of town on saturday and sunday.Hey, Its Moomba time
Its all about the dash - enjoy the dash, as that is your time between the dates
13 Mobius LSV-sold
08 Mobius LSV-sold
03 Mobius LSV-sold
life is about finding the balance between being a responsible adult and staying young at heart
12-24-2008, 12:05 AM #3Reese350 Guest
We went over to the Orlando Watersports Complex today and had a blast. We spent a couple hours riding the cable and then a couple hours in the boat with Tarah Benzel. Great coaches and setup. Highly recommended, we'll be going back for more this week.
Merry Christmas!
01-06-2009, 07:31 PM #4Sled491 Guest
Hey Scott, cool you got to go. I hope you found our info acurate. Did you check out the minni cross track in the back?
01-06-2009, 09:27 PM #5Reese350 Guest
Yeah, I appreciated everyones direction on the cable park. My kids are already trying to figure out how/when we can make it back down. They started trampoline classes as soon as we got back to MI.
What's the mini cross park? I guess we missed that?!?!
01-06-2009, 09:32 PM #6Sled491 Guest
Maybe it has been dismantled, but if you looked out the back door of the clubhouse directly away from the water you would be looking right at it.
01-06-2009, 09:44 PM #7Reese350 Guest
We were mesmerized with the water since it's been a while since we've seen any unfrozen around here so maybe I just missed it. My 7 year old ended up taking the ramps and landing them after the first day. That place rocks!


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Check out this big new tech house track from Stefano Noferini which is forthcoming on Toolroom records. The track will be released alongside another big track, 'You Make Me Feel' on 09/7/2012 (Beatport Exclusive). Check it out using the player below and let us know what you think by leaving a comment or tweet!
Stefano Noferini On Juno Download


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Thieves stole 160 feet of telephone cable, valued at $300, from a fenced lot behind the AT&T building at 655 Winterville Road, Athens-Clarke police said.
AT&T staff last inventoried the cable at 2 p.m. Wednesday and found it missing when they opened at 7 a.m. Thursday, police said. The thieves dug under the fence and bent the chain link to create a hole large enough for a person to slip through.
The stolen cable was clipped from a spool that was locked in place and too large to be moved by hand, according to the report.
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Gordon maintaining focus on the Lower Exum
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Gordon contemplates available hand- & footholds, as well as the nice pendulum fall he'd take if he were to peel right here. He's completing the 3rd pitch of the Lower Exum. Middle Teton in the distance. Amazing position & views! 29 August, '8
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Fog horn in early morning. Recorded in Nantucket, Massachusetts. This is the Brandt Point lighthouse at the mouth of Nantucket harbor. Some gulls are in the background.
There's nothing like waking up to the Brant Point foghorn! I am so glad I found this: thank you for uploading!
Sounds like Pt. Bonita or Pt. Diablo, near the Golden Gate Bridge.
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Israel News
Middle East
American Politics
Edition française
Green Israel
Kadima MK Dalia Itzik 311.
(photo credit:Marc Israel Sellem)
Kadima MKs expressed disappointment about the national unity government on
Tuesday, saying they are skeptical that party leader Shaul Mofaz and Prime
Minister Binyamin Netanyahu will reach the goals they set in the coalition
agreement.Former Kadima leader Tzipi Livni slammed the deal in a terse
message on her Facebook page. She said "there is such a thing as a different
kind of politics, and it will win."
By Gil Stern Stern HOFFMAN
By Gil Stern Stern HOFFMAN
Sponsored Content
By YONAH JEREMY BOB
By HERB KEINON
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THE beautiful thing about Bud Selig is that he reminds us that anyone can grow up to become the commissioner of baseball. Anyone. Anyone.
Commissioner Selig, after all, is always the last to see what everyone else can't miss.
This week, Selig acted to partially fix an old problem, the kind many of us would have completely fixed 20-plus years ago.
Seems Selig came to the realization that at least half the nation's population is asleep before the ends of World Series games. And that's because TV money told MLB to begin Series games 90 minutes later than regular-season night games begin.
Most fans years ago knew this needed fixing, especially those in eastern time zone cities who were unable to stay awake to see World Series played by eastern teams, including their own. Eastern zone teams have faced eastern zone teams nine times since 1992, when Selig became commissioner.
Apparently, until recently, it never dawned on Selig that returning to his hotel or wherever he was staying during the Series, that 2 a.m. is kinda late to be getting back from a ballgame.
It apparently never struck him in 2000, when the Yanks played the Mets, that the Yankee and Met fans who had the best chance to be awake to see the games end did not live in New York but in Tacoma, Fresno and on Guam.
Throughout it all, the commissioner's office dismissed the complaints and pleas of fans, patrons and media as nonsense. It even would offer data as proof to the contrary. Otherwise, MLB would have had to admit that maximizing primetime TV ad revenue in three time zones had become the primary function of the World Series.
So MLB and Fox this week got together to throw back a half-hour of World Series start time. Instead of very late, they'll start late, at 8 p.m., thus maybe even end around 11:30 instead of midnight.
Selig explained that this will "allow the largest number of people to watch." What a concept! Funny, though, that's the same way his office explained 8:30 and later starts.
Still, a 7:30 start would allow every person over the age of 10 living in the mainland U.S. a reasonable chance to see the last out of every World Series game. Weeknight games played in the Pacific time zone could begin later. Why is that so hard to do?
Anyway, it took Selig only 16 years into his reign to partially fix what we'd have never allowed to be broken in the first place.
That's like steroids. By the early 1990s, lanky spray hitters were suddenly showing up as muscled sluggers. But it took Selig another dozen years to notice what we couldn't miss.
I confess. This past Sunday night I betrayed Howie Rose, something I knew was risky and wrong, when I chose to both watch and listen to ESPN's coverage of Mets-Giants.
Why I thought that ESPN, instead of smothering another game with verbal and video excess, would let this one breathe, I can't explain. But it was, of course, a mistake.
A microcosm from Sunday's telecast as to why ESPN's Sunday night baseball remains insufferable:
Shortstop Kevin Frandsen charged a bouncer, made a sweet grab on the half hop, then threw out Gary Sheffield. "Nice pickup," admired play-by-player Jon Miller. The play otherwise spoke for itself. But Joe Morgan was just getting started:
"Very nice play. Well, you have to time this perfectly because you're going to get that in-between hop, and the way you field the ball is that you catch it on the short hop or on the big hop. But this is the in-between hop. You can't get there in time to get the short hop, so he gets it on the in-between hop; you don't get it at its highest point. And a nice pick, there."
Good grief.
Wednesday night's Orioles-Yankees was another played in new Yankee Stadium to insanely priced, can't-miss-'em empty seats. Fleet Week had begun in New York City; thousands of U.S. Navy, Marines and Coast Guardsmen in town. Ah, never mind.
Hooray! Comcast cable and NFL Network, two TV entities built on soak-the-public self-interest, finally have reached an agreement through which the public will be additionally soaked. And, according to a news release distributed by both, we're supposed to respond, "Hooray!"
From reader Mark Morley: "Whenever I watch Mike Francesa on YES and get tired of his pompous act, I just wave my hand dismissively at the TV while turning the channel with my other hand." Actually, Francesa this week had some shining moments. He even asked Sweeny Murti a question, then allowed Murti to answer it.
Curt Smith's bio of Vin Scully, "Pull Up A Chair," is out. Cheap at 30 bucks, it's published by Potomac Books.


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(click linked text below to jump to related section of the review)
- The Movie Itself
- 2.5 Stars
- HD Video Quality
- 3 Stars
- HD Audio Quality
- 4.5 Stars
- Supplements
- 0 Stars
- High-Def Extras
- 0 Stars
- Bottom Line
- A Rental at Best
Beyond the Black Rainbow
- Street Date:
- September 11th, 2012
- Reviewed by:
- M. Enois Duarte
- Review Date: 1
- January 30th, 2013
- Movie Release Year:
- 2010
- Studio:
- Magnolia
- Length:
- 110 Minutes
- MPAA Rating:
- Rated R
- Release Country
- United States
The Movie Itself: Our Reviewer's Take
By the next morning, I had all but forgotten what 'Beyond the Black Rainbow' is really about. For any other movie, this would signal its death knell, an indication of its failure to make much of a lasting impression.
In my book — and I'm sure this is true of many moviegoers — story and plot, no matter how feeble or gimcrack, always take equal importance with the visual design. We need characters and a central conflicting drama to illicit an emotional response from the audience. Coupled with striking imagery and lush cinematography, this is the spirit of film art, to capture the imagination and excite our passions.
Don't get me wrong, there are exceptions to this rule (the visually-arresting poetry of Luis Buñuel quickly comes to mind), but even in any of those examples we still find a story driving the imagery to a satisfying conclusion. First time writer and director Panos Cosmatos appears to be working from a different mind frame, but can't say for certain if it's deliberate or the result of inexperience.
He places more emphasis on the look of his debut movie, like some long-lost, poorly-made grindhouse feature recently rediscovered, than on a story that surely would've made that look all the more remarkable. Its visual design is undeniably astonishing, and it's about the only thing making the film noteworthy, which can be both a good and bad thing, depending on what you're in the mood for. Unfortunately for Cosmatos, I'm always in the mood for a story with salient pictures, which his film sadly fails to deliver, wasting a great deal of potential.
With unique photography by Norm Li that feels aged and weathered, the surreal, phantasmagoric images are impressive and haunting. They largely go unexplained and are incomprehensible — which does appear to be intentional — flimsily linked together by the director's desire for them to be connected rather than arising from an intelligible plotline. The dreamlike visuals are evocative yet elusive, lingering in the mind and strangely hinting at nightmarish grotesqueries as we put more though into them.
The filmmakers borrow liberally from other illusory sci-fi classics, most notably Kubrick's '2001' and Lucas's 'THX 1138,' to piecemeal this visionary appeal that sometimes borders on the tedious. There were also trances of Ken Russell's trancelike 'Altered States' sprinkled throughout.
The idea and semblance of a plot can still be found in 'Beyond the Black Rainbow,' but it's only just that — the façade of a story, a very thin veneer that allows for the visuals. At the start, we see an infomercial for the fictional Arboria Institute, explaining the desire to attain happiness through science and technology but generating suspicions of a crazed cult obsessed with ideals of achieving the perfect human. As the movie progresses, the latter turns out to be true, as the institute is slowly revealed like some kind of underground experimenting facility fixated on an imaginary future out of 'THX 1138' and Douglas Trumbull's 'Silent Running.'
At the center, we have a young girl named Elena (Eva Allan in her big-screen debut and doing exceptionally well) with what we can only guess is a mysterious telekinetic power that can kill. In fact, much of this is nothing more than guessing because none of it is ever fully expounded on. Powerful as she is — or at least, we think she is — Elena is nonetheless controlled by an even less explained pyramid that lights up and smokes profusely.
The man manipulating the dials and holding her captive is a darkly pensive, skeletal-looking figure, Dr. Barry Nyle (Michael Rogers), a scientist with a shocking but still frustratingly cryptic secret. Rogers is fantastically creepy and disturbing in the role where he inexplicably desires Elena, who we remain unsure is meant to be turned into a robotic soldier or used for her power.
In the end, 'Beyond the Black Rainbow' is a perplexing but visually inventive debut feature, offering more by way of nightmarishly arresting eye-candy than a jarring, mind-bending experience of the intellect. The effort is on artistic photography that evokes classic sci-fi and exploitation cinema, told as if from a forgotten and poorly remembered dream.
The Blu-ray: Vital Disc Stats
Magnolia Home Entertainment brings 'Beyond the Black Rainbow' to Blu-ray on a Region A locked, BD25 disc inside a blue, eco-lite case. After a few skippable trailers, viewers are taken to a standard main menu screen with full-motion clips and music playing in the background.
The Video: Sizing Up the Picture
'Beyond the Black Rainbow' arrives to Blu-ray with a highly-stylized video that looks aged and weathered, and this AVC-encoded transfer (2.35:1) is faithful to the filmmakers' aspirations. The intentional photography, which emulates the appearance and feel of a low-budget grindhouse feature, is surprisingly convincing with white specks and minor scratches popping up sporadically. A thick grain structure which fluctuates slightly in a several spots adds to the illusion and creates an appealing film-like quality.
However, the look makes for an overall unattractive picture quality as contrast falls below average for a majority of the runtime, yet whites are brilliant and cleanly-rendered. Except for a few scattered scenes, blacks also tend to come across faded with murky shadows that can obscure background information, which could likely be deliberate as well. The color palette is limited and largely subdued although reds and blues appear accurate and occasionally quite vibrant. There are some noticeable moments of banding and posterization hindering the presentation further. Definition and clarity takes a big hit due to the cinematography and several soft-focus scenes, but in general, details are reasonably sharp with particularly revealing close-ups and strong fine textures.
It's not much of a looker, but its faithful to the filmmakers' intentions.
The Audio: Rating the Sound
The psychedelic sci-fi movie fares much better in the audio department with a deliberate sound design that creates a strange and unusual listening experience. From the start, the DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack feels spacious and expansive, spreading across all three front channels with ease and extraordinary fidelity. Imaging is appreciably extensive and wide with a precise mid-range, and the bass is surprisingly powerful and far-reaching with several ultra-low frequencies that rattle the walls. Amid all this, dialogue remains crystal-clear and intelligible.
Although the mysterious institute is largely silent, like some air-tight, hygienic chamber, there is still a weird assortment of noises to be heard. Strange alarms, bizarre chimes, odd dings and voices from the television fill the rest of the soundstage. These same sounds make up most of the rear activity as well, extending the soundfield with a satisfying, immersive effect. The original experimental music also expands into the back and fills the room with a haunting sense of dread and anxiety. The lossless mix is consistent, almost relentless, in the way it surrounds the listening area and generates an apprehensive environment as part of the film's highly unusual viewing experience.
The Supplements: Digging Into the Good Stuff
- Deleted Scene (HD, 3 min) — A special effects dissolve shot of a melting head.
- Trailers (HD) — The original theatrical preview is joined by trailers to other movies in the Magnolia catalog.
Final Thoughts
Visually striking and highly imaginative, 'Beyond the Black Rainbow' evokes classic sci-fi and exploitation cinema with admirably immersive effectiveness. Sadly, a darkly cryptic and somewhat tiresome plot hampers much of the film's potential, causing more work for the audience than it's worth. The Blu-ray comes with a picture quality that's faithful to the filmmakers' intentions but doesn't translate well for high-def video. However, the audio presentation is excellent and highly entertaining, but the lack of supplements makes this a rental at best.
Technical Specs
- BD-25 Single-Layer Disc
- Region A Locked
Video Resolution/Codec
- 1080p/AVC MPEG-4
Aspect Ratio(s)
- 2.35:1
Audio Formats
- English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1
- English SDH
- Spanish
- Deleted Scene
- Trailers
All disc reviews at High-Def Digest are completed using the best consumer HD home theater products currently on the market. More
about our gear.
Puzzled by the technical jargon in our reviews, or wondering how we assess and rate HD DVD and Blu-ray discs? Learn about our review methodology.
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The Lawnmower Man: Collector's Edition
3.5 Stars


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Optishot Golf Simulator Review
Golfers have been searching for a device for years that could assist with training and allow for fun, all the while being cost effective. It seems as though over the last few years, golfers have always had the same choice to make…"Do I play a video game such as the Nintendo Wii or do I spend thousands and thousands of dollars on a simulator? (assuming space is not an issue)". A couple of years ago, a company by the name of Dancin' Dogg came up with an idea for a portable and affordable solution that may give consumers the ability to have their cake and eat it too. They launched the Optishot Simulator for indoor use and it arrived at the consumer friendly point of $399.95 which brought smiles to the faces of golfers everywhere. The one question that everybody wants to know the answer to in evaluating this device, is it a game or a training aid? Is the device accurate enough to be called a true simulator? Read on for more information.
What is Optishot
In theory OptiShot is an affordable, accurate and portable home golf simulator. It is designed to give the golfer:
Accurate Swing Analysis
Club head speed
Face angle at impact
Swing path
Distance travelled
Face contact
Visual feedback of each shot
Play with up to 4 players
Hit all shots from tee to green
Crystal-clear graphics
Ability to tune settings specific to your club set
Practice shots from anywhere on any course
Setting Up Device
All you need to get started is a room with high enough ceilings, your golf clubs, the Optishot simulator box and a Windows computer. Setting up is an absolute breeze as you just install the program, connect the USB cord from your PC to the hitting mat and you are basically done. I would like to add that if you have a Mac, you are not going to be able to use the Optishot Simulator. The device is not Mac compatible and according to the company there are no plans for a release of a Mac version anytime soon. The company recommends 8.5 foot ceilings, but in our measuring, you might want to consider something a little taller than that. The Optishot kit comes complete with foam balls, a rubber tee and everything else needed once setup is complete. One other thing to note is that you must have a room that is fairly dark. More on that coming up later.
Using the Device
We set up the device in our golf room at THP HQ and were quickly reminded that the high levels of light were messing with the sensors. One swing would have a reading of 105 MPH swing speed and the next would be somewhere around 65 MPH. It was causing havoc in our minds and with the score, so we quickly navigated towards a darker area. Once setup in the darker room, you really get the feel that you are ready to play some golf. On the first tee I was armed with the latest driver THP has been testing and when the light went green I put a swing on the "ball". Before I get into the results, I wanted to say that I chose the current driver because of the fact that earlier in the day I was on the range with our VectorX launch monitor and happen to have all the statistics in place. On the launch monitor, swing speed was coming in at around 105 for my normal swing and with the fitted shaft, my launch angle was right where it should be. As you load up the system, you choose the preferences you would like such as wind, tees, and whether you would like to use a ball or no ball. We decided to go with no golf ball for the 1st session. Back to the results…I would love to say that with the first swing, we saw instant results and it was like using a full simulator. Unfortunately, it did not start out that way.
For some reason it kept reading my swing speed at about 75 MPH. No matter if I swung hard or soft, the results were the same….Slow swing speed, with a big draw. I could come in with a huge fade swing or open club face and it was still giving us the same slower swing speed and a big draw. The distances were all over the place as well. First swing was a 75MPH club head speed with a .8 degree closed face and a 216 carry drive into the rough on the left. Next was a 77 MPH club head speed that was square at impact yet it carried 231 into the trees on the right. Figured it was time to do some more research.
After a few hours, I decided to go back and face the gadget again and this time use the foam balls that were supplied. Once using the foam balls, the results were a little better. I found the club head speed to still be off by a pretty large margin compared to an actual simulator or our launch monitor, but the face angle measurements were quite good. We have tried using the device numerous times and have enjoyed the rounds of golf and swinging in the comfort of our own home. You can get the feel of playing an actual round of golf with the Optishot in your home during those winter months where you cannot get out to the course. It offers the same joys of hitting that good drive down the middle of the fairway and the same frustrations of missing by just a groove or two and ended up long or short on your approach.
The graphics on the Optishot simulator are quite good. A faster machine might smooth out some edges here and there, but overall the presentation of the golf course and the rendering of the holes that were presented to us are pretty top notch. Having a notebook computer with an HDMI out made it very easy to connect our Optishot right to a large LCD TV which showcased once again the nice renditions of some incredible golf courses.
Playing golf in your living room in the middle of winter would be a joy for our northern friends.
Fairly accurate with face angle and swing path.
Extremely easy setup.
Ability to use every club in your own bag and watch it come to life on the monitor.
Graphically speaking, it was a hit.
Definitely must have a darker room.
Found the club head speed pretty baffling at times
Accuracy was not on par with the simulators we have tested and/or our launch monitor
The Optishot Simulator is far more sophisticated than a Nintendo game device, but in my opinion, not quite on the level yet with full golf simulation or launch monitor statistics. It is enjoyable despite some early trouble and one can enjoy a round of golf in their own home regardless of what the weather is like outside, but it will not replace an actual round of golf in terms of realism (nor should we expect it to). The opinion of those at THP that tried the device out is it ranks somewhere above a game and below a full simulator in terms of realism and accuracy. With a price point of $399 for the entire kit, it might be worth a shot to take a look at. For more information on the Optishot Simulator, check out their website at www.dancindogg.com.
Till Next Time
Josh B.
Category: Accessories, Equipment, Headlines & News
About the Author (Author Profile)Josh is the Publisher of The Hackers Paradise and co-founder of THP Media with his wife Morgan Babbitt. Together they share a passion for golf, and they travel the country along with their two dogs in the THP Tour Van bringing their love and knowledge of the game to golfers everywhere.
Comments (35)
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Sites That Link to this Post
- Optishot reciews | Rentoblog | July 11, 2012
Nice review, JB. I have used one of these before and noticed some inconsistencies in it too. Over all it was just to use, but I just felt sometimes the numbers were wrong.
Great review. I think that it would serve us northerners well just to be able to see ball flight and the path. If only we had 9 ft ceilings:).
i can certainly see a place for a device like this, and i think that's what's the most important thing. for a little more than a gaming unit, you at least have something that allows you to swing actual golf clubs. i won't be looking at one any time soon, mostly b/c i don't have the space for one, but i know there are a ton of folks that would love something like this.
thanks for the review.
Great review. I've been wanting to know the real scoop on this device & now I do. As a Northerner stuck in the house but longing for golf this sounds like a good solution. I don't have space for it right now but will be keeping in mind a place for it in my next place
Nice review THP. I feel that with more sensors the light issue might be a non-issue. That's too bad, I had high hopes for this one. Looks like it's price is right on with what you get; The ability to swing a full club, just don't put too much stock in the numbers it feeds back.
Nice review JB. If I had the room I would consider it. For 400 bucks it would help get me through the winter months without losing swing.
For the price point, I think it sounds decent. I didn't really expect you to say that it was as accurate as a launch monitor. I think it still has entertainment value and you are able to swing a real club while using it.
Great review. I like the idea behind this simulator and it could be something to lookin into once I have room for it. Even living in a great golf weather state, there are times where practicing from home would make things a lot easier on me.
I have been waitng for this review and it was well worth the wait. I thoroughly enjoyed that. I like the idea to have this gadget in the winter months. Thanks josh, great review as usual
Thanks for the review, way to cut through the marketing hype they seem to push on the commercial and give it to us straight. I do believe that someone stuck in the mid west with a foot and a half of snow on the ground would really benefit from having this. Now someone looking to get fit for a new driver…not so much. Thanks again!
A little steep in price for me until they work out more kinks, I think. That and I only have 8 ft ceilings inside the house and probably don't want to spend a ton of time out in the garage in the winter. 🙂
Great review JB! For $399 I'd love to try to find a spot for this in my house… especially to practice 125 yds and in…
Great review JB. I like the idea of this, but have some reservations about it. This is defintiely something I could use for the long winters up here. Definitely something to look into when I get my new place.
Great review. I can't use it in my current home, but perhaps somewhere down the road, I'll have a space for it.
Thanks for reviewing this product. Like others, it won't work in my home with the lower ceilings. The accuracy of the system would prevent a lot of people from getting this I would think, but for $400, you can't expect it to perform like a better quality, more expensive simulator/launch monitor.
Great write up! It sounds like it performs exactly how I expected it to, good but not great. But at that price point I would not expect great. I think this product is very intriguing and I think a lot of people are going to be finding space for one in their homes.
I just got one of these for Christmas. The review and comments are pretty much spot on. It's definitely not accurate 100% all of the time. But this is to be expected for the price point it was set at. However, it is a lot more fun that just hitting balls into a net.
Some other things that might be worth pointing out:
1. If you like to take divots, then your swing speed will suffer. This makes sense because you physically can't take a divot. The Optishot is really solid and it will feel more like you just chunked a shot, which in turn slows your club down as it passes over the decond set of sensors. My swing speed readings are most accurate when I'm able to pick the ball of the turf.
2. The unit itself is approximately 1.5 inches thick. I would strongly suggest getting something to stand on. I bought a commercial grade 4 x 5 hitting mat that is just about even with the Optishot. Then I cut out a section to place the unit. This also keeps it from moving around. This is very important because the better aligned you are and square with the unit, the more accurate your results.
3. If you've gone through all the troubleshooting methods and still have trouble, you can edit some parameters within the software. For instance, if your swing speed is consistently lower than you expect, you can compensate by entering in a knock-up factor in percentage format. The default value is 100%. So if you're consistently getting readings of 60mph with your 7-iron, but you know for a fact that you swing it at 75mph, you can enter 125% and it will not spit out readings of 75mph. But if you happen to hit the ball perfectly and the sensors pick it up perfectly, then you'll get a reading of 94mph. You can also put in percentages for distance, which I haven't tried. Likewise, if you think the dispersion doesn't match what you typically see in real life, you can edit the club offsets to compensate.
I apologize. In #3, it should say: "…you can enter 125% and it will NOW spit out readings of 75mph."
Great stuff JB. Too bad accuracy isn't better at $400 which is no bargain but not a complete drain on the wallet either. Hopefully this is the start of making this technology more accessible to the consumer.
Dear THP and Forum Members,
Thank you for the in-depth review of the OpitShot Infrared Golf Simulator by Dancin' Dogg Golf. We are extremely proud of the accurate, realistic platform we provide golfers of all ages and abilities, for a fraction of the cost of launch monitors and other simulators.
As we constantly develop new technologies, consumer input is taken seriously and we appreciate all of the feedback on this site.
We urge you to try OptiShot for yourself, it's the ideal way to hone your game all-year long. OptiShot boasts game-improvement features and an incredible fun factor that's perfect for beginners to scratch players. It will become a fixture in your home, office or garage.
Thank you again and play well,
Brandon Theophilus
CEO, Dancin' Dogg Golf
Great job on the review JB !
I am really disappointed in the club speed accuracy of this unit.
I was ready to pull the trigger on this till your review.
This one will not show up in my toolbox until the accuracy is improved.
I have a question…..I read "another" review where it says the sensors are designed to reflect off "polished" bottoms of irons. I notice in the above post, they are using a driver. Would this affect the "inconsistent" readings? The bottom of my R9 is pretty non reflective (black). The "other" review I read mentioned about using a special "optishot" driver. Just a thought.
Thank you.. I understand. One more question…. Does this simulator require you to use "tape" on the bottom of the clubs? I am looking at another similar simulator, but it seems they sell tape in their products page. Thanks again for the quick reply.
I have the Optishot but have upgraded to the ProTee Golf simulator. I also tried the P3pro but was not happy with the accuracy and thecourse playability. I think the Optishot is a good sim for the pricepoint but I completely agre with your review. It is not high end and certainly has a lot of inconsistencies in the clubhead especially with the woods. It was not good enough for me that is why I switched. The P3pro was better but again just not enough. Since getting the ProTee, I can say that the simulator experience has been awesome. I would highly recommend the ProTee United simulator.
I have been using for about a month now, I'm really happy with this. I think the above inconsistencies with club-speed would go away,as long as there is no shadow on censors, and make sure that you use florocent light bulbs.
hi guys,
good review but i think i can help with the varied wood readings. David, you are on the right lines with the R9 and darker coloured woods. As the unit works on light sensors it relys on the clubs reflections. Darker clubheads can mess up the actual readings and also as david mentioned shadows can cause problems. Make sure you have an artificial spotlight pointing at the sensors to get best results.
The biggest problem with woods is the unusual lines and curves etc on the bottom of the woods. When the club swings over the sensors the lights then reflect and bounce in different directions because of the cavitys, curves etc on the club headand causes misreads. I myself use the R9 and found this inconsistency. I then taped over the bottom of my R9 with some silver tape to smooth out all the curves etc to produce a smooth finish woth no cavitys etc. I found this really helped the simulator and my readings are now spot on! Dancin Dogg now sell a driver and if you view it on their site you'll see it has no cavity or curves and has a polished bottom. Nobody likes to have to tape clubs but a quick piece of tape on the sole of the club head on just your woods will get you the results you're looking for.
hope this helps!!
Hello, i think that i saw you visited my weblog thus i got here to return the favor?.I am attempting to to find issues to enhance my website!I guess its ok to make use of a few of your ideas!!
Once when I was about 15 I was sitting in the back of my mom's van while it was parked. I was waiting for her to get back from shopping. Both vehicles parked to the left and right of the van that I was in began to back out of their parking spots giving the illusion that the van that I was in was rolling forward. I had an adrenaline spike like you wouldn't believe. I dove from the back of the van landing with some insane crawling movement to press my hand on the brake. I moved my foot up to replace my hand and looked around, noting what had really just happened. Derp.
Well jimmie i did not start drinking or doing dope at 15 years old,, sounds like you had some pretty good hooch that day
I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss the feasability to interface our Mind training system as well as our body/club 3D system with your simulators.
Most of the accuracy problems noted by others seem to be related to one of two things when using irons. First, if there are ANY shadows across the sensors, (golfer, club etc.), you will tend to get some erratic readings. The sensors need consistent lighting with no shadows, (florescent works great). Second, you must be properly aligned to the target line to get accurate shot results. The majority of amateurs have alignment problems to begin with. If your swing cuts across the target line due to poor alignment, it will report inside/out or outside/in swing. Your club face may be reported open or closed as well. So, those with poor alignment are missing their targets in real golf as well as on the Optishot. Hint: If it says you have an outside/in swing, try hitting the same shot with a really flat swing plane. If it still says outside/in, you're cutting across the target line due to bad alignment.
It is also worth noting that if you fat or top the ball on the Optishot, the MPH readings will be greatly reduced (I suspect that is because it takes the club longer to travel from the back sensor to the front sensor). Generally, whenever I get a rather low swing speed, I believe that I have fated the ball, (even slight fat seems to reduce the swing speed some thus shot distance). Occasionally, thin shots will show up at reduced swing speeds as well. Divots after contacting the ball do not seem affect the swing speed much at all.
Here are some suggestions to gain greater accuracy using the product.
1. Lighting – My system is installed in the garage. I put up thick curtains to block outside light, (infrared light from the sun will affect the Optishot sensors). I installed florescent bulbs in the overhead light. However, because the Optishot was not perfectly centered under that light, there were still shadow issues. I bought a $20 adjustable floor light and installed a 100W florescent bulb in it. I placed it so it shines down on the Optishot , (and no it does not affect the swing area and it has a shade), and wham…no more shadow issues! The erratic readings went to almost zero. Remember… ELIMNATE all sources of outside lighting (including regular light bulbs) and install consistent florescent lighting so that all shadows across the sensors are eliminated. The result after making these changes: The swing speed matches pretty closely to my Doppler radar readings. Generally, it will read within 0-4 MPH (consistently within 2 MPH)of the Doppler readings (which are accurate and I have tested it at the golf store).
2. Alignment – You should start with your club face parallel with the back sensor. Then align your feet to the target line. If you consistently get outside/in or inside/out (slice or hook) and that does not match what you consistently do on the course, check you alignment first!
3. Clubs – I recommend that if your driver produces erratic readings that you get a roll of metal repair tape. That tape is light and flexible. I put a small piece and both the toe and the heel of the bottom as both were curved quite a bit. I also cut pieces to cover the Burner "B" and the red painted design things around the bottom edges of the driver. Optishot now sees the driver much more consistently and the readings track the radar readings fairly closely. My radar readings on the driver go from about 110 to about 118 MPH. Optishot generally reads from about 105 to about 116 MPH.
4. Irons – I was able to get my 2009 Burner Irons to read MUCH more consistently by putting metal repair tape on the bottom of the irons. The tape was installed from toe to heel in 3/8″ strips from the leading eadge of the iron back. This apparently provides much better (straighter) refelctions to the sensors. I checked with Optishot tech support and they confirmed if your iron bottoms are "brushed", (kind of dull brushed aluminum look), they may not yield consistent straight reflections. The metal repair tape apparrently makes it easier for the sensors to get the straight relections required.
5. Set Up Your Clubs – Start with a stock set of clubs and hit some iron shots. Game improvement will probably work best for most cavity back clubs. If you're a low handicap and use blades, there are a set for those as well. Play with the clubs until you find a stock set that performs the most consistent. With my Burners, game improvement did the trick. I entered the loft, offset and club length for each and away I went.
6. Netting – Consider getting a net to hit into. I purchased the Calloway 6×7 hitting net for about $70. That works wonderfully using the Almost Golf Balls. I would recommend you grabbing a box. They are rated at about 1/3 the distance of real balls and will not break anything. They are really durable. You get a sufficient feel from them to tell if you hit them on the sweet spot, toe or heel. You may get a flat spot or two on them, but that will not affect your Optishot results.
7. Hitting Mat – Be sure you get a hitting mat designed for the Optishot. You can order one for about $180.
Hope this helps you out and have fun with your new Optishot…I have had a blast and play almost daily (sometimes hitting 300-400 balls a day…lol)
Can you run it on XP on your computer. Do you need 7 or better
The other problem that nobody has address is the distance calculation in your test. No way in the world a 77mph club head speed is going to give you 230 yard carry.


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Today is Sunday, July 20, 2014
Sun..... 27th degree Cancer
Moon..... 14th degree Taurus
Mercury ..... 9th degree Cancer
Venus..... 2nd degree Cancer
Mars.....27th degree Libra
Ceres..... 25th degree Libra
Jupiter..... 00 degree Leo
Saturn.....16th degree Scorpio, retrograde
Uranus..... 16th degree Aries
Neptune..... 7th degree Pisces, retrograde
Pluto.....11th degree Capricorn, retrograde
Eros..... 29th degree Sagittarius
Lunar Node..... 23rd degree Libra, retrograde
ZODIACAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR TODAY ARIES (March 21-April 19): A savings plan or modification to your budget raises optimism about reaching a goal. Breaking from tradition can be unsettling but exhilarating at the same time, especially for those hungry for change. TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Sticking with the tried-and-true comes naturally to you. Romance could be one of the few prospects that might coax you out of your comfort zone today. Three cheers for love! GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Curiosity takes you in some interesting directions today, especially where taboo subjects or spooky material is concerned. What you consider fascinating, someone else might think of as macabre; to each their own.
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Carefully follow safety instructions today. In love, a balance between individuality and togetherness creates the basis for a nearly irresistible attraction. Too much clinginess can send the wrong message.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Tension surrounding a feud or disagreement is likely to ease today, especially if warring parties are able to take a breather from the fray. Things can look far different when tempers cool.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Ideas freely flow in a low-pressure atmosphere today. Push too hard and you might actually lose ground. A charitable spirit brings special energy to a get-together or group effort.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): There are plenty of healthy ways to deal with your feelings if an old emotional wound acts up today. You are perfectly capable of rising above virtually any challenge to your autonomy. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Some activities or opinions are best kept private, even if you are tempted to shout about them from the rooftops. A burden is released when a personal decision is made. SAGITTARIUS (Nov.22-Dec. 21): The demands of work, chores or family responsibilities can drain enthusiasm at times today, but can do good things for your bank account or relationships. Sixth sense is off the hook.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Much as you may try to conceal it, others are likely to sense your disapproval today. The tendency to go overboard can be a form of compensation related to a past event or exchange. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb.18): A promotion or raise is not as likely to come your way if you've failed to set the stage ahead of time. Do what you can to make sure you're on the radar of those in powerful positions.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Little that's worthwhile is likely to be produced in a situation where there is no give-and-take. Promote the kind of healthy cooperation that can lead to a win-win outcome.
These interpretations are on the aspects and positions of the planets in relation to each sun-sign. They indicate the general mood and issues of the day as you experience them. Be creative in applying your forecast to the actual circumstances of your life.


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Detwiler, Zimmerman power Nats to series split
Detwiler, Zimmerman power Nats to series split
After dropping the first two of four games against the Braves -- including an 11-inning heartbreaker on Friday night -- the Nats enjoyed a 9-2 win in the series finale Sunday at Nationals Park. The Nationals now begin a seven-day road trip with a 3 1/2-game lead over the Braves in the National League East, the same margin they held entering the series.
Detwiler set forth perhaps his finest effort of the year, throwing seven innings for the first time this season and allowing only two runs (one earned) on seven hits. He struck out three Braves and walked just one, providing the Nats' bullpen some extended relief after the rigors of Friday's protracted game and Saturday's day-night doubleheader.
Detwiler also earned his first win since May 3 after taking no-decisions in each of his last five starts. Craig Stammen pitched the final two innings, allowing only one hit.
"Since it was a doubleheader yesterday, I knew that the bullpen needed a little break," Detwiler said. "I was just trying to get early outs and go as deep into the game as possible."
Following their 10-run outburst on Friday, the Nationals were shut out in the first game on Saturday and managed five in the nightcap. Sunday, the offensive recovery continued, as the Nats hammered the Braves' pitching staff to the tune of 18 hits. Right-hander Jair Jurjjens lasted only 2 1/3 innings after allowing four runs in the first inning and two more in the third. In 12 games against the Braves this year, the Nationals have outscored them, 19-3, in the first inning.
"We've struggled with our consistency because we've struggled at the end of our rotation, and we saw it today," Braves third baseman Chipper Jones said. "It's a little demoralizing when you're in a dogfight for your division and you're constantly fighting from behind. Our chance to win the series was [Saturday] night and we didn't get it done. Today was not good from pitch one."
Ryan Zimmerman belted two home runs, a two-run opposite-field shot in the first and a solo blast to lead off the third, for the 10th multihomer game of his career. The last time he replicated the feat was on Aug. 5, 2010.
Since receiving a cortisone shot in his ailing right shoulder on June 24, Zimmerman has hit .392 (40-for-102) with 11 home runs and 28 RBIs.
"It's not me, I think everyone's healthy," Zimmerman said. "The more you get healthy, and the more consistency you have in your lineup, the more runs you're going to score."
With a trio of RBIs, Zimmerman was also one of four Nats to notch three hits on the afternoon, joining Michael Morse, Danny Espinosa and Roger Bernadina. For Morse, Sunday was his third three-hit game in the last week, and for Espinosa, it capped his homestand at 11-for-27, with a home run, five RBIs and five runs.
The Nats made it 8-0 in the fifth, when backup catcher Sandy Leon drove in two with a double. After Atlanta tacked on its pair, Zimmerman scored once more in the sixth on a Bernadina single.
"We didn't want [the Braves] coming into our house and leave with them feeling that good," manager Davey Johnson said. "I gave them one Friday, and then they nipped us on Saturday morning, but I wasn't worried about the club. There's no letdown in this ball club."
Having regained some padding in their division lead, only the loss of Ian Desmond could sour the Nationals' victory. Following the game, Johnson announced the Nats' shortstop is expected to be placed on the disabled list with a left oblique tear before the team begins a three-game set with the Mets Monday in New York
Despite playing through the injury for the majority of the summer, Desmond is batting a team-high .286 with 17 homers and 53 RBIs, the latter two totals leading all Major League shortstops. He was held out of Sunday's game, with Espinosa sliding from second base to shortstop and Steve Lombardozzi becoming the second baseman. That has been the regular alignment for the games Desmond has missed over the recent weeks.
"I know a lot of clubs have been hit, but I think we've been lambasted with injuries to key people," Johnson said. "It seems like we've had to change roles; bullpen, offensive configuration. It's been a rough year in that regard."
Mike Fiammetta is an associate reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.


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Railscasts #229: Polling for Changes
If the user have frequently changing data on the server side, it's helpful to automatically display this to the them as well. In this podcast, the speaker going to show how to accomplish this with polling in jQuery.
Provided by: Oleksiy Kovyrin Topic: Networking Date Added: Oct 2011 Format: Podcast


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wikiHow to Detect a Faux Coach Handbag from an Authentic Coach Handbag
Two Parts:Looking on the InsideInspecting the OutsideCommunity Q&A
Nothing is worse than bragging to your friends about your new "designer" Coach bag, only to have one of them say, "You do know that that's not a real Coach, right?" Keep reading in order to avoid future humiliation and in order to get your money's worth!
Part 1
Looking on the Inside
1Check the inside for a Coach logo. All authentic Coach purses will have the signature Coach logo on the inside, close to the top near the zipper. The logo will be in either patent or traditional leather. If it's not there or is in a different material, it's a fake.
2Check for the credo patch on the inside. The credo patch is a serial number stamped on the inside of a Coach bag, although some smaller purses or bags, such as the "clutch", the "swingpack" and the "mini" do not.[1] The last 4 to 5 digits of the serial number, which consists of both letters and numbers, will indicate the style number of the bag.
- Beware of serial numbers that aren't stamped into the fabric and instead printed only in ink. Real Coach bags are stamped and some such as the Legacy series are inked with a "gold-tone ink",; fake Coach bags are often only inked.
- Some older Coach bags, especially those from the late '60s, do not have serial numbers. Coach started making serial numbers in the '70s.
3Check the lining of the bag. If the outside of the bag has the distinctive CC pattern, the inside of the lining will most likely not have the pattern. If the inside has the CC pattern, the outside of the bag will likely not have the pattern. Sometimes, neither the inside lining or the outside material contain the distinctive CC pattern.
- A sure sign of a fake is the existence of a CC pattern on both the inside and the outside. A real Coach bag will never contain the pattern on both.
4Look for the manufacturing country. "Made in China" does not mean the bag is fake. Coach does make some of its bags in China, among other countries, although the original company hails from the United States.
Part 2
Inspecting the Outside
1Inspect the CC pattern, if applicable. Check the pattern of the Coach bag for irregularities. The following may be signs that the Coach bag is not authentic:
- The CC pattern is in fact only a C pattern. The CC pattern should always contain two rows of vertical and two rows of horizontal Cs, not one.
- The CC pattern is slightly crooked. In authentic Coach bags, the CC pattern is aligned perfectly both horizontally and vertically.
- The edge of the horizontal "C" and the edge of the vertical "C" do not touch. In authentic Coach bags, the horizontal "C" touches its vertical counterpart.
- The pattern breaks on any front or back pockets. In authentic Coach bags, a pocket will not cause a break in the CC pattern, although some side seams are almost impossible to continue the pattern on.
- The pattern breaks in the middle of the two seams on the front of the bag. In authentic Coach bags, a seam will not cause a break in the CC pattern.
2Check the material. Coach bags are made with the finest quality materials. If the cloth seems like canvas, the "leather" looks faux/shiny, or the outside is obviously plastic leather, don't buy it. It's most likely a cheap remake.
3Check the stitching. If it's sloppy-looking and crooked, there's probably a good chance it's fake. The same goes if there's a logo on the front of the purse.
- Each stitch should be of uniform length, should follow a straight line, and contain no "over-stitching," or sewing stitches over an edge to prevent fraying or loosening.
4Look at the fixtures. Many fixtures of Coach bags, including metal hardware, should contain the Coach logo. Note, however, that some newer models do not contain the Coach label on the fixtures. If in doubt, check an authentic model bag to see if the fixtures do in fact contain the Coach logo.
5Look at the zippers. Look for two things on Coach zippers:
- The pull on the zipper will be made of either leather or a series of rings. Zippers that don't match this description are usually fakes.
- The zipper itself is usually branded with the letters "YKK," a high-quality manufacturer of zippers. Usually, but not always, Coach zippers that don't contain the letters "YKK" are fakes.
6Don't fall for the terminology. Steer clear of any coach bags that are "Designer Inspired" or "Grade-A Replicas". Bags advertise this so that they can avoid getting in trouble. (In other words, a lawsuit.) The same goes for many other fake "designer" things.
7Check the price. If the price seems unreal, even for a Coach bag, you are most likely being fooled by a clear knock off. Counterfeiters try to make money off cheap knock offs of sought-after items, and if it seems like they're pulling your leg, they probably are.
- The same goes for very cheap Coach bag. Absurdly cheap Coach bags are either flawed, have condition issues, out of vogue, or fake. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
8Check the vendor. Vendors in the mall and off the street are most likely selling fakes. Online bidding forums like eBay commonly sell off fakes for real-item prices. Faux sellers can be anywhere, but those are the most common places they're at. Your best bet at getting the real thing is at a Coach retail store, Coach.com, or a department store purse section at stores like Macy's, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale's, and/or JC Penney.
- If buying from a vendor such as eBay, check the seller's feedback rating. If the seller has a less than reputable feedback rating, that could be a sign that something is fishy. Browse their specific ratings to see if anything sounds amiss.
Community Q&A
My coach purse has no serial number on the inside tag. Does this mean it's fake?wikiHow ContributorNew bags for factory outlet sale have the number on a tiny cloth/paper tag inside the pocket seam. They are no longer on the creed, but there IS a leather creed patch.
Do all Coach handbags have a lining? Or do some have leather on the inside?wikiHow ContributorMany of the 'vintage' leather bags do not have a lining. You can tell the bag is genuine if it is a thick yet supple leather and almost looks and feels like suede on the inside. The quality of Coach leather is second to none. The company was selling leather goods long before they ever made handbags.
Did Coach ever create a bag with a cursive logo on the outside of the bag?wikiHow ContributorYes. They do. Check Coach Legacy specifically but others do as well. The Penelope and a few others have cursive logos.
Is my Coach purse read if it doesn't have any numbers on the inside tag?wikiHow ContributorProbably not, considering most companies have serial numbers, RFID chips, or barcodes.
What color are the name tags in a fake bag?wikiHow ContributorTags and labels are a giveaway. Authentic designer bags usually have their signature logo or design on the front of the bag, and also on the inside where it will be stamped or hand-stitched. Remember, designers pride themselves on their work, so they wouldn't allow their name to be poorly crafted.
How many letters verse numbers are in an authentic Coach stamped label?wikiHow ContributorThere is no definite ratio of letters to numbers in the serial number.
Does Coach make scarves?Andrea BraggYes, they make squares, oblongs, shawls, triangles, stoles and bandanas. If in doubt, check the official Coach.com website.
Where can I enter the serial number to authenticate my bag?wikiHow ContributorPer the coach website: Coach DOES NOT authenticate merchandise or determine whether serial numbers match actual Coach items. If you purchase an item from an authorized Coach retailer, you can be assured that the item is authentic.
How can I tell if a purse is genuine by serial number?wikiHow ContributorCoach does not authenticate merchandise or determine whether serial numbers match actual Coach items. If you purchase an item from an authorized Coach retailer, you can be assured that the item is authentic.
How can I tell if my purse is fake?
Is serial number C0973-F13762 for a genuine bag?
Is number A2J-12943 real or fake?
- If you see someone with a fake, don't walk up to them and point it out.
- Money for counterfeit items can go to organized crime, weapons, prostitution, forced child labour, and even terrorism.
Article Info
Categories: Handbags and Purses
In other languages:
Deutsch: Eine gefälschte Coach Handtasche von einer echten unterscheiden, Español: distinguir una cartera Coach auténtica y una imitación, Italiano: Riconoscere una Borsa "Coach" Falsa, Français: repérer un faux sac Coach, Português: Diferenciar uma Bolsa Coach Falsificada de uma Bolsa Coach Autêntica, Русский: отличить подлинную сумочку coach от подделки, 中文: 识别冒牌寇驰(Coach)手提包, Bahasa Indonesia: Membedakan Tas Tangan Coach Palsu dari yang Asli
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 531,580 times.


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Consumption Makes up Bigger Share of GDP in EECCA Region
Data for 2010 show an increase in the share of final consumption expenditure in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) compared to 2007 for most of the countries in Eastern Europe, the Caucasus and Central Asia (EECCA) as well as for the European Union (EU27) countries.
The share of final consumption in GDP in the selected EECCA countries amounted to 90 per cent in 1996. After a decade of relatively strong economic growth the share of consumption in GDP had fallen to 80 per cent in 2007.
After the outbreak of the economic crisis it increased to 83 per cent in 2010, mainly as a result of an increase in households' consumption/income ratio and expansionary fiscal policies in a number of countries that resulted in increased expenditures on e.g. health and social security. Countries may consume more than they produce, like Armenia and Georgia in 1996 and Moldova and Kyrgyzstan in 2010. This is reflected in a corresponding deficit on the foreign trade balance.
Source: UNECE Statistical Database


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He was born in Baku, Azerbaijan on June 4, 1966. In 1973 he went to middle school and he graduated from the middle school in 1983. The same year, he entered Azerbaijan Technical University. After one year of the education in the University he went to serve in army. After 2 years he came back to continue his education in the University. He graduated this University in 1990.
Afterwards he worked in machine building factory for 3 years. Then he entered the post-graduate department in Azerbaijan State Oil Academy. The same year he started to work in International Technology and Management University, where he worked for 3 years as director of education department.
In 1996 he started to work and teach in 'Odlar Yurdu' University as a vice-dean. In 2001 he defended his PH.D dissertation under the title 'Development of planning, navigation and control systems for intelligent robot'.
In 2001-2004 he worked as a vice-dean, assistant professor in Faculty of 'Informatics', and vice head of department in ' Odlar Yurdu' University Baku, Azerbaijan.
In 2004-2005 he worked as Instructor of MBA Program of Georgia State University (USA) and 'Odlar Yurdu' University.
In 2005 he went to USA for teaching training, teaching experience in MBA program (Azerbaijan – USA) of Georgia State University.
He has been working as Assist. Prof. in Computer Engineering department of Near East University since September, 2005


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This product is no longer available.
You can try these similar gifts instead.
Eco-Friendly Good Earth Fairy Doll
Bring a smile to your favorite little girl's face with this adorable fairy doll. Made with natural organic cotton and recycled fiber filling, the eco-friendly doll offers a sweet face and inspires imaginative play.


text: Opera and theater will collide in Il Divo: A Musical Affair, a celebration of Broadway musicals opening November 7 for seven performances at the Marquis Theatre. The pop-opera quartet Il Divo is taking the stage to sing their favorite songs from The Phantom of the Opera, The Lion King, West Side Story, Les Miserables and more, alongside Tony-winning special guest Heather Headley. The international singing group, formed by reality show judge Simon Cowell, features French pop singer Sebastien Izambard, Swiss tenor Urs Buhler, Spanish baritone Carlos Marin and American tenor David Mille. The suave quartet met the press at Sardi's on September 19, previewing their new concert extravaganza and posing for photos. Click below to meet the stars, then see their Broadway debut in A Musical Affair!


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EDMONTON — Travis Baumgartner, the 21-year-old man accused of killing three armoured vehicle guards and injuring another during a robbery at the University of Alberta, is scheduled to appear in court today.
Baumgartner is expected to be formally charged with three counts of first-degree murder and one count of attempted murder, as well as four counts of robbery using a firearm.
Baumgartner was being held in B.C. after he was arrested at a U.S. border crossing near Abbotsford on the weekend with $330,000 in a backpack. But the accused murderer was escorted back to Edmonton Wednesday, where police said he was processed and taken to the Edmonton Remand Centre.
Authorities initially would not confirm that Baumgartner had been returned when an RCMP plane landed at the downtown airport just before 2 p.m. MT and pulled into a hangar.
[np-related]Three police cars, two with lights flashing and one with the windows blacked out, were then seen leaving the airport.
Police say he was one of five guards working for G4S Canada who were loading a bank machine at the university when shots rang out.
Guards Eddie Rejano, 39, Michelle Shegelski, 26, and Brian Ilesic, 35, died at the scene.
Guard Matthew Schuman remains in critical but stable condition in hospital.
Police have said Baumgartner was on an overnight crew of five that was reloading an ATM at the university's HUB mall and residence shortly after midnight Friday.
On the day of the shooting, they first named him as a person of interest, but that was upgraded to a suspect just a few hours later when police issued warrants for his arrest.
Baumgartner tried to get into Washington state Saturday afternoon at a border crossing just north of Lynden, Wash., near Abbotsford, B.C.
Police say he was driving the same dark-blue pickup truck investigators had been looking for with an Alberta licence plate belonging to his mother on the back.
He had no passport, just a driver's licence that police had flagged in their computers.


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UNHCR online video campaign marks World Refugee DayListen /
Actors, authors and other high profile supporters of the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) have been sharing their personal stories to mark World Refugee Day. The video stories appear on the UNHCR website and tell of a range of experiences, from meeting refugees to having been refugees themselves. The videos are part of a UNHCR campaign, which asks people from all over the world to share their refugee stories.
Nicki Chadwick reports.
Duration: 3'23"
Filed under Today's Features.