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My friends, I'm inspired this week. Inspired to make changes, inspired to inject color, inspired to make my home serve our needs better. Why? Why the lovely Elaine Griffin, that's why! You may recall I reviewed her book last year, and was delighted to find so much practical advice from one of the Top 100 Designers named by House Beautiful.
I had the opportunity to talk to Elaine last week, and it was like we were long time BFFs. She has the most valuable advice to give, and quite frankly, one of the kindest voices in the biz. It goes without saying I am a fan forever. In anticipation of the big Mom Cave Link Party coming up next week (ladies, mark your calendars!), here's a few Q & A's exchanged between the incredible Ms. Elaine and little ol' me.
Q: How did the idea of the 'Mom Cave' originate?
HomeGoods conducted a national poll of 1000 people and it revealed that 56% of moms don't have a space to call their own! Of those moms, 7 out of 10 said they would "love a space all for me"! They asked me (Elaine) to come in and help visualize what a Mom Cave would look like so that any woman (moms or not) could have one, no matter what size space they had or budget. So I designed three spaces as examples to kick off this new concept and inspire ladies to create a space that belonged just to them.
CG Note: Having a hard time focusing when gazing on these incredible saturated teal paneled blue walls with white, green, and gold accessories. Swoon.
Q: Where did you find all of the gorgeous furniture and accessories for these Mom Caves you designed?
All of it came from HomeGoods! What's so fun about shopping at HomeGoods is the element of undiscovered treasures AND the incredible array of styles — there's something for every room in every house in every style! To die for! It doesn't matter if you're wearing head-to-toe Chanel with a driver waiting out front, HomeGoods offers any shopper the thrill of the hunt AND designer goods at 60% off what you'd pay in the fancy stores.
Q: What are your strategies to creating the ideal 'Mom Cave'?
Whether you're or mom or not, it's important to exhale for a moment and to take "me" time. The first thing to do is give yourself permission to have space of your own.
Moms are so busy nurturing, we really need to find a place to stake out for just us whether it's three feet or three hundred square feet. It can be a space at the top of landing, one half of your dining room, a long expanse of empty wall, or even a closet — somewhere where you can declare, "This is my six feet!"
And a Mom Cave should have color! Pick ones that delight you and speak to you, even the outrageous ones, like our Ralph Lauren 'Racer Pink' on your painted walls. You don't need your husband's approval for anything that goes in your Mom Cave, so ENJOY what pleases just you!!!
CG Note: Love love loving the intense RL Racer Pink in this room. To me, it's like the perfect shade of lipstick.
Q: What's your favorite aspect of shopping HomeGoods furniture and accessories?
HomeGoods has unique finds from all over the world, the type of things that add those important finishing touches in a room, beyond your personal objects. The best way to shop HomeGoods is look closely to see what you can find. There's a ton of designer loot and some stunning brand names, too. Check the price label first, and then look closely at the back of a piece to see what sort of other labels you can find . . . like big-ticket name brands that unaffordable elsewhere. They're all over the store.
Always look deep into shelves — there're great things in the back, like trays, for example. Really take your time going through everything (ladies, this is not a moment to RUSH!!), because you don't always see the best finds on the first look!
Q: Remind us what the 'Mom Cave' is all about.
A 'Mom Cave' is where the woman who nurtures everyone goes to nurture herself. (Which is why I always say, "Make your 'Mom Cave' pretty and keep it neat!!!") It's also an ideal space to visit with girlfriends, so allow pull-up seating for that, too. Make it super-personalized and surround yourself with beautiful things to look at while you recharge with a cup of tea. A 'Mom Cave' is a very relaxing "ultimate fantasy" space, but it's also a functional space too, where you can work and produce. Most of all, a 'Mom Cave' is the space that nurtures your spirit.
Yes, yes, thank you Elaine! Don't forget the Mom Cave Contest is next Monday, and there's a lot of cash goodies up for grabs, with $250 as the top prize, and four $50 dollar runner up prizes. And guess who will also be my Guest Judges for the 'Mom Cave' contest?
The extremely talented Layla from The Lettered Cottage.
And the delightful and talented Rhoda from Southern Hospitality.
Two superstar bloggers and designers I am proud to call my friends.
Mark your calendars for next Monday October 25th!
You can enter in one of two ways:
Write up a post* in one of the two categories below in 100 words or less with images of your space and then link up to the party on October 25th.
A) Describe your 'Mom Cave' and get creative! It can be your home office, your craft corner or closet, your reading nook, your vanity, or your favorite getaway spot. Wherever it is that YOU take time to recharge, create, get organized, or just relax. Why is it special to you? How does your existing 'Mom Cave' help you stay organized, unwind, or simply be a better Mom?
B) OR, answer this question in your post: How would a $250 gift card help you create your own 'Mom Cave'? Don't forget a picture!
*If you do not have a blog, please submit your written entry (with at least 1 picture) to [email protected] on or before October 25th by 8 p.m PST.
Elaine Griffin has inspired me so much that there are some changes going on around these parts too! I happen to be a habitual mover of furniture, so the sofa that was in my home office was moved into the living room over the weekend. I like it here! It makes for a pleasant seating area for the holiday party, but not sure it will stay here forever. The grand piano was moved to the other side of the room, but I'm planning to move it back next year.
This room is screaming for an area rug, but I'm still waiting on this lattice rug in ivory on backorder until next month. I'm on the hunt for a better coffee table too.
I am in need of a better filing and storage solution in my office, so I found this credenza at a thrift store for the new blank wall in the office. Perfect!
This two tone credenza is scuffed up, so I'm thinking I'll paint this time. How about a chic glossy medium tone gray with sleek nickel pulls? Above, a huge inspiration board, and perhaps some art. Add a few accessories in an intense raspberry color and some metallics too ~ it will be both pretty and practical!
Be sure to participate in the 'Mom Cave' Link Party on Monday October 25th!


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AES San Francisco 2012
Product Design Session PD4
Saturday, October 27, 9:00 am — 10:00 am (Room 120)
PD4 - Audio in HTML 5
Presenters:Jeff Essex, AudioSyncrasy
Jory K. Prum, studio.jory.org - Fairfax, CA, USA
HTML 5 is coming. Many expect it to supplant Flash as an online rich media player, as Apple has made abundantly clear. But audio support is slow in coming, and there are currently marked differences between browsers. From an audio content standpoint, it's the Nineties all over again. The W3C's Audio Working Group is developing standards, but this is a fast-moving target. This talk will provide an update on what's working, what isn't.

subset: commoncrawl


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A new survey of Canadian physicians shows a "significant gap" between optimal practices to detect nutrition problems in hospitalized patients and what action is actually taking place.
The survey, conducted by the Canadian Malnutrition Task Force, looked at physician attitudes and perceptions about identifying and treating nutrition issues among hospitalized patients. The startling findings of the survey were published today in the OnlineFirst version of the Journal of Parenteral and External Nutrition (JPEN), the research journal of the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (A.S.P.E.N.).
The survey found that large percentages of doctors believe that nutrition assessments should be done with patients upon admission (87 percent), during hospitalization (86 percent), and at discharge (78 percent). However, actual assessments completed were much lower, at 33 percent upon admission, 41 percent during hospitalization, and 29 percent at discharge.
A similar disparity was also found when it came to weighing hospitalized patients. Although doctors believe that weighing patients should happen upon admission (97 percent), during hospitalization (86 percent), and at discharge (81 percent), only 54 percent of patients were weighed upon admission, 25 percent during hospitalization, and nine percent at discharge.
Further, while the vast majority of doctors believed that nutrition requirements should be taken into account during ward rounds and that patients at risk for malnutrition should receive ongoing monitoring, the actual implementation of these practices was well below the rates considered optimal.
"Malnutrition among hospitalized patients can adversely affect health care outcomes, including prolonged hospital stays, higher readmission rates, and increased mortality" said Peggi Guenter, PhD, RN, A.S.P.E.N.'s Senior Director of Clinical Practice, Quality, and Advocacy. "This study should serve as a wakeup call -- not just for clinicians in Canada, but for all clinicians. Malnutrition in hospitalized patients is a global problem. We have similar issues with diagnosing and coding for malnutrition here in the United States."1
Malnutrition in hospitals is linked to multiple factors, including failure to recognize malnutrition, inadequate resources, poor quality or accessibility of food, and prolonged fasting for medical procedures. In addition, doctors receive little in the way of nutrition training in medical school or residency training, making them less likely to recognize nutrition-related issues.
The survey reflects data collected from 11 academic and seven community hospitals across Canada from July 2010 to February 2013 with more than 400 responding physicians.
Story Source:
Materials provided by American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (A.S.P.E.N.). Note: Content may be edited for style and length.
Journal Reference:
Cite This Page:


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Last month we talked about tube distortion and how overdriving a larger signal into a tube can cause it to distort. Keep in mind that these terms are often
Last month we talked about tube distortion and how overdriving a larger signal into a tube can cause it to distort. Keep in mind that these terms are often used interchangeably. The term overdrive is typically used to describe milder signal clipping, while distortion tends to refer to the hard stuff.
It should be noted that any type of signal manipulation can be used in a musical or non-musical fashion. In general, tube generated overdrives and distortions tend to be much more pleasing and touch sensitive than pedal derived sounds. Sometimes the harshest, ice-pickin- the-ear tone will better serve the song and its communication aspect, but don't get me started! More often than not, distortion levels are way out of whack, especially in live situations. When the average guitar slinger practices alone, the tone is saturated to the gills. Take that same tone – commonly referred to as "my sound" – and try it in a band situation. You're often greeted with mush, mud and pierced ears.
Live sound can be very good. The lab rats here at Creation Audio Labs are well aware of how good gear can sound, and unfortunately, how often it doesn't due to incorrect use. In all fairness, the blame lands squarely in one of two places. First, band members shoulder some of the responsibility by lacking the knowledge to achieve good tones at reasonable volume levels, as well as not understanding proper placement, such as where to put their amps and mics. Second, live sound engineers may not be that well versed on how to use either the gear or the room to achieve a good sound. When an inexperienced band is coupled with a novice sound guy, audience members suffer.
Bryan Lionman recently sang the praises of working with the sound guy to give the band the best shot at a good sound, emphasizing that it starts with the band. Sure, a crappy sound guy can mess you up, but they can never "fix" a band that doesn't sound good in the first place. So remember, before my inbox gets slammed by thousands of angry emails, it's a two-way street. A ton of great sounding bands and incredibly capable live sound people are out there making it happen, night after night.
But getting back to distortion in a band situation, less is always more. And by that I mean less is always more. The vocals and the cymbals are competing with the guitars 99 percent of the time. Add in bad EQ and improperly powered high-frequency drivers, and the ice pick heads straight for your ears. No wonder live gigs get a bad rap.
Next up is the inevitable too-loud bass. Low frequencies need to be handled properly to get a good sound for the entire room, not just on stage. Bass players need to remember that what they're hearing on stage tends to bear little resemblance to what the audience is hearing. Again, our mantra here is "less is more."
Let's take a closer look at the differences between overdrive and distortion. In the lab where we make and fix audio gear, we rely on oscilloscopes and other prohibitively expensive equipment to actually look at signals. In general, audio is comprised of sine waves with varying degrees of pleasantness and/or harshness. Pleasant sounds have nice, round flowing patterns. Harsh tones display rough edges, eventually appearing more "square." For audio analysis, we use a totally square wave at 1kHz, and trust me, it sounds horrible. The visual representation of the waveform can reveal many things about the technical aspects of the sound, but won't necessarily determine if that sound is "good" or "bad," or, the communication value of the sound.
Fig. 1. 1kHz sine wave – pure tone, no distortion
Fig. 2. 1kHz square wave – good looking square wave, "bad" sound
Fig. 3. 1kHz sine wave run through a trusty Jekyll & Hyde pedal, on the OVERDRIVE side.
Fig. 4. The same 1kHz sine wave through the Jekyll & Hyde on the DISTORTION side.
Keep this issue handy. Next month we will do some more dissecting and will refer back to these photos. Once this series is complete, I promise you will have a better grasp of how this applies to your music than ten legions of your peers.
Sarge out.
Gary "Sarge" Gistinger
President, Creation Audio Labs, Inc.


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Can you hear yourself think? Can you manage more than bursts of confusion and anger? Can you feel your own humanity anymore? I'll admit it—I've had trouble this week, too. After an explosion like the one in Boston, it is indeed hard to hear one's own internal monologue, much less meditate on such horrific events. Polluting that sacred quiet of the mind is both the haunting boom of the bombs themselves and even worse, the noisy coda that we've become so accustomed to.
Sensory overload, of course, is the deafening effect of the Catastrophe Aftermath—one of the last unifying and consistent rituals in our atomized nation. Yes, regardless of whether the tragedy is a school shooting or a terrorist attack, the epilogues of these now-constant mass casualty events have become prepackaged productions that seem less like reality than scripted television dramas.
You know how it goes. Cable outlets blare breaking news chyrons. Twitter explodes with declarations that we are "all from (insert city name) today." Websites post videos of viscera and other disaster porn. Pundits wildly speculate about perpetrators. The president promises justice. Law enforcement press conferences review body counts. Municipal officials insist the community will "stand united." Funerals commence. A media icon says something outrageous. Other media carnival barkers then react to the bombast. Ultimately, the whole episode becomes another excuse to limit civil liberties and is forgotten by all but those personally affected.
In submitting to this automated formula, a screen-addicted nation has created a distracting defense mechanism—one that further dehumanizes events, which are already, by definition, an assault on our humanity. In the process, we make it more difficult to muster the soul's ability—and, perhaps, desire—for genuine reflection.
At this point in a column published during the official Catastrophe Aftermath, a writer is supposed to authoritatively offer solutions. But I have none. And you know what? That's OK because it is entirely human to lack answers right now. All I can offer up are thoughts that shouldn't be drowned out by the noise.
One is about context. The images from Boston are not merely of mayhem and heroism. With the attack occurring on the day our taxes are due, they should remind a tax-hostile country of the value of public investment—in this case, in first responders who miraculously limited the casualties. They should also generate a sense of sympathy for those in places like Iraq and Syria who face terrorism-related carnage every day.
Another thought is about fear. At one level, it is appropriate. With our country's wars increasing the possibility of retributive blowback, with the Department of Homeland Security recognizing the threat of domestic anti-government terrorism, and with a heavily armed society not addressing its mental health crisis, we should (unfortunately) expect periodic massacres. But at another level, fear shouldn't consume us—after all, terrorism is still on the decline worldwide.
Still another thought is about people. The Boston bomber reminds us of the cliche that people suck. But the many who ran toward the blast to save lives remind us that most people do not suck.
One final thought: I arrived at these not-so-profound revelations only when I shut off the screen and opted for introspection instead of the false comfort of flashing pixels. I did this because, as security expert Bruce Schneier, suggests, terrorism "is a crime against the mind"—and therefore one way to combat it is to immerse the mind in a bit of silence. Doing so denies the terrorists their desired glory, allows for the consideration of unanswerable questions and, thus, lets one remember what it means to be truly alive.
That may be the best—if not the only—way to honor the dead and find meaning in such a senseless atrocity.
David Sirota is the best-selling author of the books "Hostile Takeover," "The Uprising" and "Back to Our Future." Email him at firstname.lastname@example.com, follow him on Twitter @davidsirota or visit his website at www.davidsirota.com.
© 2013 Creators.com


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Chrysler has officially unveiled the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee at the 2009 New York Auto Show.
The new Grand Cherokee features a more sculpted crossover-like exterior. Although the Grand Cherokee has been a unibody SUV, just like the new crossovers, it has been lumped in with the aging body-on-frame SUVs in terms of popularity. Chrysler is attempting to appeal to the crossover fans with a sleeker, more athletic exterior. The wheelbase has also been stretched 5.3 inches, its 3 inches wider and the overall length has been increased 1.8 inches.
The 2011 Grand Cherokee gets the first application of Chrysler's new flexible fuel 3.6L V6 engine that puts out 280 horsepower and 260 lb-ft. of torque. The V6 is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy has also been improved 11 percent over the previous V6 engine. If you need more power the 5.7L HEMI V8 is available with 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft. of torque. The 4×2 Grand Cherokee with the HEMI V8 can tow up to 7,400 lbs.
For those fans that worry that Chrysler has gone soft with the new Grand Cherokee you can rest easy since Chrysler has made further enhancements to make the GC even more off-road capable. The new Grand Cherokee is available with a new Quadra-lift air suspension that allows the driver the ability to raise the ride height up to 11.1 inches of ground clearance. There are five different height settings to help get over boulders, improve ingress/egress and even a setting to improve fuel economy.
There is also an all-new Selec-Terrain traction control system that lets the driver choose the optimum off-road setting. The system features a dial that allows the driver to choose between five driving conditions. There are also three different 4×4 systems (Quadra-Trac I®, Quadra-Trac II® and Quadra-Drive® II).
The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be built at the 2.7-million-square-foot Jefferson North Assembly Plant (JNAP) in Detroit.
Jeep® Introduces All-new 2011 Grand Cherokee
Inventor of the SUV Hits the Sweet Spot of Real-world Capability and On-road Refinement
Legendary Jeep Capability
• New Quadra Lift™ air suspension system provides height control and lifts vehicle up to 4.5 inches from park mode to a maximum ride height of 11.1 inches to deliver legendary Jeep off-road capability
• Choice of three 4×4 systems – Quadra-Trac I®, Quadra-Trac II® and Quadra-Drive® II with Electronic Limited-Slip Differential (ELSD)
• New Selec-Terrain™ system with Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II offers five terrain settings: Auto, Sand/Mud, Sport, Snow and Rock to match driving conditions
• First application of company's all-new, flexible fuel 3.6-liter V-6 engine which features Variable-Valve Timing (VVT), 280 hp (209 kW) and 260 lb.-ft. of torque (353 N•m) @ 4,800 rpm – an increase of 33 percent in horsepower, 11 percent in torque over its predecessor and up to an 11 percent improvement in fuel economy
• Available 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 generates 360 hp (268 kW) and 390 lb.-ft. of torque (520 N•m) @ 4,250 rpm – features VVT and fuel-saving Multi-displacement System (MDS) technology with dual exhaust to maximize efficiency
• For international markets, left- and right-hand drive and a choice of diesel and petrol powertrains will be available
• Unsurpassed trailer tow capability of up to 7,400 lbs. on 4×2 models
• Larger fuel tank with 24.6 gallon capacity, compared to 21.6 on current model, combined with improved V-6 fuel economy, delivers range close to 500 miles on one tank of gas
World-class Interior
• Premium soft-touch interior materials for all price classes, including leather instrument panel and door uppers on Overland model
• World-class interior features include real wood and leather, heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, four-way power lumbar controls, rain-sensitive wipers, Passive Entry/Keyless Go, ParkView rear back-up camera and power tilt/telescoping steering column with memory
• Increased storage areas in instrument panel with larger glove box and covered center-stack storage bin
• Premium packaging delivers enhanced comfort and easy accessibility for up to five passengers and cargo
• Larger front- and rear-door openings (78 degrees) for improved ingress/egress compared to current model (67 degrees)
• More than 4 inches of increased rear-seat knee and leg room (38.6 inches) compared to previous model with reclining second-row seats
• Larger cargo volume (36.3 cubic feet) provides 17 percent more room for gear compared to current model (31 cubic feet)
• A fold-flat front passenger seat provides improved cargo carrying capability (Laredo models)
• Well-appointed cargo compartment with removable dual storage bins inside the spare tire compartment
• All-new sculpted body and athletic profile define a sleek exterior with aerodynamic finesse
• All-new dual-pane panoramic sun roof (CommandView®) extends from the windshield to the rear of the vehicle. Comprised of two glass panels with power open/close sun shade
• Effortless power rear liftgate for remote up/down convenience (Grand Cherokee first)
• New 20-inch wheels available on Limited and Overland models
• Bi-Xenon High-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps standard on Limited and Overland models
• Segment-exclusive SmartBeam® headlamps adjust to ambient light and oncoming traffic to deliver maximum lighting
Ride and Handling
• All-new independent front and rear suspension systems deliver premium on-road manners with isolated front and rear suspension cradles and variable-rate rear springs that combine to enhance on-road character and ride comfort
• All-new body structure's torsional stiffness is 146 percent stiffer than current model and stiffer than the BMW X5 and Toyota Highlander for improved durability and reduced noise, vibration and harshness (NVH)
• Stiffness achieved with more than 5,400 welds in the body alone. This marks
a 53 percent increase in spot welds, a 42 percent increase in arc welds and a
38 percent increase in structural adhesive
More than 45 Safety and Security Features
• Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) includes Electronic Roll Mitigation, Hill-Start Assist, Trailer-Sway Control and available Hill-Descent Control
• Standard full-length side-curtain air bags extend protection to front and rear outboard passengers
• Standard seat-mounted side thorax air bags enhance protection of the driver
and front passenger
• Standard Jeep-first active head restraints deploy in the event of a rear collision
to minimize the gap between the head restraint and occupant's head
• ParkSense® Park Assist System assists at low speeds to detect stationary objects. Warnings include audible chimes and display in the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)
• Blind-spot/Rear cross-path detection system notifies driver of vehicle(s) in blind spots with illuminated icons on side-view mirrors and/or an audible chime
• Adaptive cruise control decreases vehicle's pre-set cruise-control speed when closing in on another vehicle or when another vehicle pulls into same lane
(late availability)
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW) system detects when the vehicle may be approaching another vehicle too rapidly and alerts driver (late availability)
• Remote Start (standard on Overland (available on Limited) starts engine and activates comfort settings based on ambient conditions by using the key fob while maintaining vehicle security
Connectivity and Infotainment
• uconnect guardian standard on all models and includes: Automatic Crash Notification, Emergency Call, Roadside Assistance Call, Remote Door Unlock and Stolen Vehicle Location Assistance
• uconnect tunes wireless Bluetooth® connection for cell phones (and future
MP3 players), enabling streaming music, and new USB connection with digital technology, enabling voice search by song title and artist for iPod devices
• uconnect nav featuring all-new Garmin navigation and uconnect studios featuring SIRIUS Backseat TV
• Premium Alpine audio system with nine speakers, surround sound and a
506-watt sub woofer
Nearly 18 years ago, Jeep invented the premium SUV segment with the introduction of the Jeep Grand Cherokee. More than 4 million sales later, Jeep improves the formula and hits the sweet spot of real-world capability and on-road refinement with the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee.
The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee delivers premium on-road performance while maintaining the Jeep brand's legendary four-wheel-drive, torque-on-demand two-speed transfer case and towing capability. It also offers improved fuel economy (up to
11 percent) and a world-class interior cabin.
"We listened carefully to our customers and the market," said Scott Kunselman,
Vice President – Jeep/Truck Product Team, Chrysler LLC. "Our all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee hits the sweet spot of premium on-road performance and legendary
class-leading Jeep capability."
The all-new Quadra-Lift air suspension system delivers legendary Jeep off-road capability along with the new Selec-Terrain system that allows the driver to choose the drive system that best matches on- or off-road driving conditions. New front and rear independent suspension systems deliver premium on-road handling and comfort.
The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is built on a proven rear-wheel-drive unibody platform sharing the same underpinnings as the Mercedes-Benz ML.
"Jeep invented the SUV segment and our all-new Grand Cherokee is the next step in the evolution of the SUV," said Mike Accavitti, Director – Jeep, Chrysler and Dodge Brands. "Jeep innovations including Quadra-Lift air suspension and Selec-Terrain traction control separate us from the crowd."
Legendary Capability
The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee offers the new Quadra-Lift air suspension system. The Quadra-Lift system features five height settings for optimum ride performance:
• Normal Ride Height (NRH): 8.1 inches of clearance offers improved fuel economy and improved aerodynamics during on-road driving
• Off-road 1: Lifts the vehicle an additional 1.5 inches for added height in clearing obstacles (9.6 inches)
• Off-road 2: Delivers legendary Jeep off-road capability and provides an additional 3 inches of height for 11.1 inches of ground clearance
• Park Mode: Lowers the vehicle 1.5 inches from NRH for easy ingress/egress. NRH and Park mode are driver-selectable giving the driver control over vehicle ride height
• Aero Mode: Lowers the vehicle .6 inches from NRH. Aero Mode is controlled by vehicle speed and adjusts for optimal performance and fuel economy
Quadra-Lift adds up to 4.5 inches of lift span that is supported by four-corner air springs that provide a cushioned, premium ride. Quadra-Lift operates automatically, or may be controlled manually via console controls.
In addition to the Quadra-Lift air suspension, the all-new Selec-Terrain™ traction control system lets customers choose the off-road setting for the optimum experience on all terrains. This feature electronically coordinates up to 12 different powertrain, braking and suspension systems, including throttle control, transmission shift, transfer case, Traction Control and Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
The Selec-Terrain's control dial allows the driver to choose from five driving conditions
in order to achieve the best driving experience on all terrains:
• Sand/Mud: Traction control and Quadra-Lift operate with sensitive response to wheel spin, and torque is tuned for optimal performance
• Sport: Provides enhanced on-road "fun-to-drive" capability
• Auto: Automatically adapts to any on- or off-road situation
• Snow: Vehicle traction and Quadra-Lift adjust for ultimate performance over snow-covered roads
• Rock: Quadra-Lift suspension raises to maximum height (11.1 inches) and the transfer case, differentials, and throttle coordinate to provide low-speed control
Selec-Terrain, coupled with the all-new Quadra-Lift air suspension, offers drivers an adjustable suspension span that delivers legendary Trail Rated® performance.
With the front air dam removed, and the available Quadra-Lift air suspension, the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee features a 35.9-degree approach angle, (compared to 32.3 on current model), a 29.2-degree departure angle (compared to 27.5 on current model) and 25.1-degree breakover angle (compared to 20.4 on current model).
The all-new independent front and rear suspension features isolated front and rear suspension cradles. Variable-rate rear springs deliver improved on-road handling and comfort that complements the vehicle's off-road capability. The new rear suspension allows the spare tire to be stored inside the vehicle as opposed to underneath.
Go-Anywhere 4×4 Systems
The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers three 4×4 systems (Quadra-Trac I®,
Quadra-Trac II® and Quadra-Drive® II).
Quadra Trac I delivers full-time four-wheel drive without any switches or levers to pull. The system provides smooth operation over a variety of road conditions. This light-weight single-speed case is both proven and highly efficient for enhanced fuel economy.
Quadra Trac II's two-speed transfer case uses input from a variety of sensors in order
to determine tire slip at the earliest possible moment and take corrective action. The system uses Throttle Anticipate to sense quick movement in the throttle from a stop and maximizes traction before slippage occurs. When tire slippage is detected, as much as 100 percent of available torque is instantly routed to the axle with the most traction.
Quadra Drive II, with a rear Electronic Limited-Slip Differential (ELSD), delivers industry-leading tractive capability. The system instantly detects tire slip and smoothly distributes engine torque to tires with traction. In some cases, the vehicle will anticipate low traction and adjust in order to proactively limit or eliminate slip.
Selec-Terrain is standard with Quadra Trac II and Quadra Drive II.
Jeep Trail Rated®
All 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokees equipped with either the off-road or the Quadra-Lift group are Trail Rated®. The Jeep Trail Rated badge on the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee indicates that the vehicle has been designed to perform in a variety of challenging
off-road conditions identified by five key consumer-oriented performance categories: traction, ground clearance, maneuverability, articulation and water fording.
Jeep Trail Rated is a unique methodology used by Jeep Engineering to measure and predict off-road performance for all Jeep vehicles. Through a combination of natural and controlled field tests, Jeep Trail Rated provides a consistent measurement of off-road performance for all Jeep vehicles. Only Jeep vehicles are Trail Rated.
The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is available with two leading engine options
for North American markets.
The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee's standard engine is an all-new flexible fuel 3.6-liter V-6 engine. The 3.6-liter V-6 engine is an all-new design featuring double overhead camshafts (DOHC) and a high-pressure die-cast aluminum cylinder block in a 60-degree configuration. It features Variable-Valve Timing (VVT) and delivers 280 horsepower (209 kW) and 260 lb.-ft. of torque (353 N•m) @ 4,800 rpm. This all-new V-6 engine improves fuel economy up to 11 percent compared to the previous Grand Cherokee equipped with a V-6. It is coupled with the proven W5A580, a five-speed automatic transmission that delivers smooth shifts and optimum fuel economy. The five-speed W5A580 transmission includes adaptive electronic control or Electronic Range Select (ERS) driver-interactive manual control and an electronically modulated torque converter clutch.
The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee's larger fuel tank, with a 24.6 gallon capacity, combined with the V-6 engine's improved fuel economy, delivers a range of approximately 500 miles on one tank of gas.
The available legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine delivers 360 horsepower (268 kW) and 390 lb.-ft. of torque (520 N•m) @ 4,250 rpm. The HEMI also features VVT, which delivers performance and towing capability, as well as fuel efficiency with the fuel-saving Multi-displacement System (MDS). The 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine is mated to the 545RFE multi-speed automatic transmission.
The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee offers unsurpassed trailer tow capability of up
to 7,400 lbs. on 4×2 models when equipped with the HEMI V-8 engine.
For international markets, the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be available
in left- and right-hand drive with either diesel or petrol powertrains.
World-class Interior Refinement
The all-new interior is elevated to that of its European competition and features rich materials and elegant appointments, as well as more room for both passengers and cargo.
"Following in the footsteps of our all-new 2009 Dodge Ram, our all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee is another proud graduate of our Advanced Interior Design Studio," said Ralph Gilles, Vice President – Design. "We achieved a world-class interior by using fine materials and maintaining a laser-attention to details."
An available all-new CommandView® dual-pane sun roof provides twice as much glass surface than a standard sun roof and extends from the windshield to the rear of the vehicle. The front panel can be opened rearward, providing additional light and fresh air to first-row passengers. The rear panel, which is fixed, allows light and open viewing for second-row passengers and comes standard with a power sun shade.
Right-sized Packaging
The vehicle's 114.8-inch wheelbase is 5.3 inches longer than the model it replaces and contributes to an overall vehicle length that is 1.8 inches longer than the prior model. The longer wheelbase creates more interior room and gives passengers an additional 4 inches of rear-seat knee and leg room. The vehicle also is 3 inches wider for improved handling and packaging.
Larger front door openings (1.9 inches wider; 2 inches higher) and rear doors open 78 degrees compared to current models (67 degrees) for better access to the interior.
Inside, premium seating includes room for five passengers. An available fold-flat
front-passenger seat provides improved cargo storage room (Laredo models).
For added passenger comfort, rear seats recline 12 degrees. There also is a 12-degree forward angle to allow 24 degrees of variation.
Cargo volume behind the second-row provides an additional 6.8 cubic feet of room (36.3 cubic feet total) compared to the previous model. The well-appointed rear cargo area includes a storage unit with a rechargeable flashlight and new and improved grocery hooks on both sides. The spare tire compartment includes removable dual storage bins for secure storage of muddy gear or other items.
An all-new power rear liftgate is available for effortless remote up/down convenience.
Classic Exterior Design
Every surface of the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee is new and treated for aerodynamics. This improves fuel efficiency and puts more fluidity into the design while delivering a 7- percent improvement in drag compared with the current model. The all-new 2011 Grand Cherokee Cd is approximately 0.37 compared with the 2009 Cd of 0.404.
"Our all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is much more refined, focused and sportier than the model it replaces," said Gilles. "It has classic Jeep Grand Cherokee styling
with sculpted athletic exterior refinements for 2011."
The front includes Jeep's classic seven-slot grille, round headlamps and trapezoidal wheel arches. The removable lower front fascia delivers improved fuel economy, on-road performance and off-road capability. The lower front fascia features a large chromed appliqué (Limited and Overland models) that showcases available tow hooks.
From the side, Jeep Grand Cherokee features an athletic, muscular profile. Black appliqués on B-pillars give the day-light opening (DLO) an aerodynamic, modern appearance and a sleek profile. Available chromed mirrors and door handles add to the profile and complement the full-chromed DLO surround on all models.
Seventeen-inch wheels are standard and deliver off-road capability, with optional 18-inch and all-new to Jeep, 20-inch wheels for 2011.
Taillamps wrap from the rear quarter panel to the back of the vehicle and create a solid form which achieves more of an upscale appearance. The treatment complements the front-end design and resonates with the rest of the exterior.
Jeep Grand Cherokee models equipped with a HEMI V-8 engine have 3.5-inch dual chromed exhaust tips, and those with the V-6 engine have a 3-inch single exhaust.
Premium Performance
Continuing to build on the Jeep brand's legendary off-road capability, the all-new 2011 Grand Cherokee adds premium on-road performance to complete the package.
The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee's premium SUV on-road manners and legendary Jeep ruggedness is achieved with more than 5,400 welds in the body alone. Torsional stiffness is 146 percent more than the current Grand Cherokee and stiffer than the BMW X5 and Toyota Highlander for improved durability and reduced noise, vibration and harshness (NVH).
With more than 3,700 mm of arc welding and 100 m of structural adhesive to augment welding, this marks a 53-percent increase in spot welds, a 42-percent increase in arc welds and a 38-percent increase in structural adhesive.
More than 45 Safety and Security Features
The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee includes more than 45 safety and
security features.
Standard safety features include Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM), four-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with rough-road detection, four-wheel Brake Traction Control System (BTCS), Passive Entry/Keyless Go, Remote keyless entry, express up/down windows for driver and front-seat passenger, seat-belt pretensioners, Trailer-Sway Control and Remote-Start which is standard on Overland and available on Limited.
Other standard safety features include full-length side-curtain air bags which extend protection to front and rear outboard passengers, seat-mounted side thorax air bags that enhance protection for the driver and front passenger and active head restraints which deploy in the event of a rear collision.
The body structure is all new and designed to achieve expected safety performance
in global markets (new roof-crush standards, side-impact standards and Euro
pedestrian impact).
Connectivity and Infotainment Features
The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee will feature uconnect guardian as a standard feature on all models (services provided by Hughes Telematics).
uconnect guardian provides customers with the top five requested security features. uconnect guardian customers can access the following:
• Automatic Crash Notification – In the event of an accident, a call is placed and a request for assistance is dispatched to the vehicle's location
• Emergency Call – With a push of the emergency button, customers are placed in contact with a trained emergency response specialist during an emergency situation
• Roadside Assistance Call – Connects customers to a uconnect customer care specialist who can connect them to Chrysler's road-side assistance for towing or jump starts
• Remote Door Unlock – Remotely unlocks doors with a simple phone call
• Stolen Vehicle Location Assistance – Works with local authorities via on-demand tracking to provide the current location of the vehicle if it is stolen
The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be built at the 2.7-million-square-foot Jefferson North Assembly Plant (JNAP) in Detroit, which has been the site of Grand Cherokee production since its introduction in 1992.
In preparation for production of the all-new Grand Cherokee, Jefferson North Assembly is undergoing a 285,000-square-foot expansion to replace the existing body shop, which is part of Chrysler's investment of approximately $1.8 billion in new vehicle programs. In addition, changes throughout paint and assembly operations will give the facility an all-new level of manufacturing flexibility for multiple product capability.
JNAP was built in 1991 and was expanded in 1999.
Jeep Brand
Staying true to its values and character, the Jeep® brand is purpose-built for adventurous lifestyles. With 68 years of legendary 4×4 capability, the Jeep brand continues to fulfill promises of adventure, liberation and independence for those who embrace life, whether traveling on- or off-road. The ruggedness and responsiveness of Jeep vehicles provide owners with a sense of security to handle any situation with confidence.
For 2009, the brand's legendary Go Anywhere, Do Anything™ heritage is maintained with the addition of more interior refinement, comfort and technology in the widest range of sport-utility vehicles under one brand. The Jeep product line includes the brand icon, the Jeep Wrangler; the four-door Jeep Wrangler Unlimited; the popular mid-size Jeep Liberty (Cherokee outside North America); the venerable Jeep Grand Cherokee; the seven-passenger Jeep Commander; and the Jeep Patriot and Jeep Compass with all-new redesigned interiors and fuel economy of 28 mpg.


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Foreign companies have been flocking to Vietnam.
Earlier this year, one of the world's biggest private equity firms Warburg Pincus added banking and logistics to its Vietnam portfolio, pushing its total investment into the country over the $1 billion mark.
Auto players like JAC Motors of China, as well as Kamaz, the largest truck maker in Russia, have recently turned to Vietnam. The Southeast Asian country is seeing money pour in from all over the globe, whether it's Indonesia's Gojek in ride-hailing, or Qatar's Ooredoo in telecommunications.
With a trade war rippling across the Pacific and fears of interest rate contagion in emerging markets, much of Asia looks bleak. So why is the economy in communist Vietnam such a bright spot?
Stability is key
Gross domestic product is forecast to expand 7 percent this year. The currency and inflation are stable. Growth is expected in exports, manufacturing, foreign direct investment, and other indicators that show Vietnam outpacing rivals in the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
"Vietnam is likely to remain the fastest-growing ASEAN economy in 2018 and 2019, as in 2017," said Chidu Narayanan, Asia economist at Standard Chartered Bank. "We remain positive on Vietnam's growth medium term on strong manufacturing activity, as FDI inflows to electronics manufacturing remain strong."
The bank predicts a current account surplus of 3.7 percent of GDP for 2018, meaning Vietnam takes in more money through trade and investment than it sends abroad. That includes an increase in income from services, such as IT outsourcing.
To explain why the country of 100 million people is outperforming peers, it helps to look at factors like trade, consumer spending, and politics.
On the surface, Vietnam's communist system would not sound like an appeal for investors. But many actually cite the political stability, albeit through one-party government, as a reason to come here. And in reality most businesses operate in a free market, with some state controls.
Political stability contributes to economic stability, and it helped Vietnam weather a leadership transition that in other countries could spell volatility. Stock markets were not rattled when the president, Tran Dai Quang, died suddenly of illness last month while in office. He will be succeeded by Communist Party chief Nguyen Phu Trong, a man known for maintaining the status quo.
"There will be no major change in Vietnam's economic strategy or political system as a result of the passing of President Tran Dai Quang," said Carl Thayer, emeritus politics professor, the University of New South Wales at the Australian Defense Force Academy.
Vietnam likes trade deals
That economic strategy has been characterized by trade deals with as many countries as possible. Through ASEAN, Vietnam has trade pacts with Australia, New Zealand, China, India, Japan, and South Korea. It also signed the Trans-Pacific Partnership, as well as separate agreements with Russia and the European Union.
This could be part of the reason that investor optimism jumped 6 percentage points between the first and second quarters of 2018, according to a European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam survey released Oct. 3.
"These results show once again that European companies and investors remain confident in Vietnam," chamber co-chair Nicolas Audier said. "On the cusp of this historic [EU-Vietnam free trade] deal, which would boost trade and investment on both sides, we hope this positive message from EuroCham and its members will inspire the government to continue opening its markets to foreign investment."
Also drawing in businesses are Vietnamese shoppers. Consumer confidence was higher in Vietnam than in Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore, market researcher Nielsen reported in March. As citizens' incomes rise, their spending attracts brands in all manner of products.
Spanish fashion retailer Zara has opened outlets here, while Apple in September appointed its first premium reseller in the country, EDigi, authorized to do official repairs of iPhones and Macs. Vingroup, a conglomerate founded by Vietnam's richest man, launched a line of cars this month with some promotional juice from soccer star David Beckham.
No economy is perfect
It's not all coming up roses, of course. Economists say Vietnam needs to keep an eye on borrowing: consumers are using more credit cards, the government is close to its debt ceiling, and banks have more non-performing loans than desired. The real estate sector is also cooling, and the country wants to avoid any of the flak that comes from the trade war between the U.S. and China.
That trade war has made investors bearish on Asia's biggest economy. Elsewhere in the region, Indonesia is fighting to hold the value of its currency, as investors abscond to take advantage of higher U.S. interest rates.
Philippine inflation is approaching 7 percent, the highest in nearly a decade. In Myanmar, the economic potential that once seemed sky-high is now taking a back seat as that state allows ethnic violence and jails journalists.
Vietnam is not far away but has been spared many of those problems for now.


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Are Today's Artsy Kids Tomorrow's Business Leaders?
Michigan State University researchers looked at the university's Honors College graduates from 1990 to 1995 who majored in science, technology, engineering or mathematics and found that those who owned businesses or patents received up to eight times more exposure to the arts during childhood (until age 14) than people in the general public.
"The most interesting finding was the importance of sustained participation in those activities," Rex LaMore, director of MSU's Center for Community and Economic Development, said in a university news release. "If you started as a young child and continued in your adult years, you're more likely to be an inventor as measured by the number of patents generated, businesses formed or articles published. And that was something we were surprised to discover."
Music training appeared especially important. The researchers found that 93 percent of the graduates in the study reported musical training at some point in their lives, compared with 34 percent of adults in the general population. The graduates also had higher-than-average involvement in the visual arts, acting, dance and creative writing, according to the study recently published in the Economic Development Quarterly.
The researchers also found that those who were exposed to metal work and electronics during childhood were 42 percent more likely to own a patent, while those exposed to photography during childhood were 30 percent more likely to have a patent. Those exposed to architecture during childhood were 87.5 percent more likely to form a company.
An arts and crafts background can stimulate creative thinking that can help solve complex problems, according to the researchers, who said their findings could prove valuable in helping to rebuild the U.S. economy.
"Inventors are more likely to create high-growth, high-paying jobs in our state, and that's the kind of target we think we should be looking for," LaMore said. "So we better think about how we support artistic capacity, as well as science and math activity, so that we have these outcomes."
More information
The Nemours Foundation explains how to introduce toddlers to music.
Police search for killer in Hempstead ... Lazo case latest ... Bethpage FCU offers tax-filing help ... Waterfront home in Center Moriches
Police search for killer in Hempstead ... Lazo case latest ... Bethpage FCU offers tax-filing help ... Waterfront home in Center Moriches


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Engadin Lodge Premium & Private
Description of the holiday rental
Very bright apartment with panoramic windows and 2 balconies with dreamlike views overlooking the mountains and cable railway. Two bedrooms with double bed, separate mattresses and each with separate access to the large bathroom. Cosy living room with sofa bed and fireplace effect, satellite TV incl. radio, CD/DVD player. Fully equipped, open-plan kitchen area, large dining table with bench seat. Access to the south west-facing panoramic balcony from the living/kitchen area. Access to the east-facing balcony from both bedrooms. Spacious bathroom with walk-in shower, bathtub with lighting effects, hair dryer, cosmetic mirror and your own "Physiotherm®" infra-red cabin with light therapy.
End cleaning and the city taxe are not in the price included.
All rooms enjoy full accessibility. Hypo-allergenic bedding, integrated room ventilation, tiled wooden floor with underfloor heating. Free Wi-Fi, safe, wardrobe.
A refuge with a luxurious alpine lifestyle and plenty of open space to satisfy your desires awaits you in Samnaun-Engadin. Your keys to an unforgettable holiday experience.
Lots of keys to happiness and an unforgettable holiday experience. The Engadin Lodge, with five sophisticated premium lodge style apartments in Samnaun-Engadin, will be as unique and diverse as the region in which it is situated. Where once traders made their way across the Alps, today a multifaceted holiday region flourishes that strikes a balance between tradition and modernity. You will experience an astonishing symbiosis of nature, culture and personal recuperation in your Engadin Lodge.
Five premium lodge style apartments
You turn the key. The door swings open and you step into your very own private lodge in the village of Samnaun. You will feel a sense of alpine comfort and tranquillity from the very first moment. The abundance of wood and natural stone inside, with exclusive furnishings, instils a charming blend of traditional chalet style and luxurious modernity. You have the Engadin mountain panorama right at your feet with floor-level panoramic windows. Welcome to your very own personal holiday idyll.
- Parking space
- Cable TV / Sat. TV
- Dishwasher
- Bike-friendly
- Pets allowed
- Family-friendly
- WiFi
부동산 예약
희망 기간 선택
Motnaidastr. 1
7563 Samnaun-Dorf
전화번호 +41 81 861 88 00