text:
Critic-Turned-Cook: Recipe Testing for 'The Meat Lover's Meatless Cookbook'
Get the Recipe
Recipes are like road maps that can take you to wonderful, exotic, sometimes challenging places.
I didn't always believe that. Ever since I started messing around in the kitchen, I've always gotten a charge out of throwing things together. It's kind of a thrill to take whatever ingredients I could find in the pantry or fridge and turn them dinner. It works out just fine, most of the time.
One of the most intimidating things about working in a professional kitchen was following recipes to the letter. There was no room for fudging. I eventually got the hang of measuring things by weight instead of in terms of cups and tablespoons. And, yes, there was certainly a warm feeling when it turned out just right.
Still, despite my strengthened skill set, I was a bit nervous when my friend Kim O'Donnel asked if I would be willing to test some recipes for her cookbook, The Meat Lover's Meatless Cookbook: Vegetarian Recipes Carnivores Will Devour, which hits bookstores next week!
That seemed like a whole lot of responsibility. If I make a mistake and measured incorrectly, well, that could be a big deal. But I took the plunge into a big pot of rice and beans.
The recipe I tested and liked best was Smokin' Hoppin' John, the black-eyed pea and rice dish that's a New Year's Eve tradition in the South. It's supposed to bring you good luck.
I had never heard of Hoppin' John before moving to Memphis at the end of 2003, but the first New Year's Eve I was there, I needed some good luck starting a new job, so I gave it a shot. And—rats!—it turned into a big gummy mess.
Kim's version called for chipotle chili and smoked paprika to add some kick to the dish. I had never heard of smoked paprika and the search for this ingredient took me to the wonderful World Spice near the Pike Place Market, where bulk herbs and spices from around the globe are available. There were at least a half a dozen different kinds of paprika, and I picked up a couple. One was sweet, another fiery. Both smelled like walking down the streets of Madrid.
It was while searching out this seasoning that I had my recipe epiphany. Had I not been trying to track down these ingredients, I never would have discovered smoked paprika. (Which I now love and rub on practically everything I throw on the grill.)
I followed Kim's excellent instructions and in no time was digging my spoon into a bowl of Smokin' Hoppin' John. (Not missing the meat at all!) The only feedback I gave her on the recipe (see page 146) was an enthusiastic "yum!"
Now, writing recipes, that's a whole different story. I've been asked to share some of my recipes and I've got to say sorry, I just kinda of made that up. Not really sure how much of this and how much of that I added.
That's all going to change very soon, though—I've promised to write some recipes for my daughter, who's going back for her sophomore year of college. (Go Geoducks!) She'll be living in her first apartment, cooking for herself for the first time. Only hope I'm up to that challenge.
Get the Recipe
All products linked here have been independently selected by our editors. We may earn a commission on purchases, as described in our affiliate policy.


text:
Jack Malvey: 'In Some Ways the Bond Is Stronger'
As chief of global fixed income strategist at Lehman Brothers, Jack Malvey traveled the world. He recounts the personal impact of the bank's collapse, and his continued ties to former Lehman employees.
This transcript has been automatically generated and may not be 100% accurate.
... I ... the the ... I ... Jack Belliard is chief global fixed income strategist with brothers ... are on the world and remains ... in Asia that we we see here is in Europe that six weeks the year ... so seen a lot of ... exciting places to be tremendously interesting people around the world we are very proud of the organization ... using copper Hansel an organization that is so ... strong just a year or two before ... a now fading into history and was just a complete shock ... there was sadness and remorse ... it is initially in comprehension ... all or most things mixed together ... in one of the fairway when compared to last of a loved one but in this ... beginning visits Rome is not the worst thing in one go through ... but the window washers look attractive now ... on the was just a more even think about what to do next with a ... busy weeks and folded in on the thought of that the sell side strategists somewhere else ... better than staying at Barclays which I did for while ... thought about ... it being on the buy side ... photo taking sabbatical ... the andthe actually did a bit of all for them is the very ... because you really could not leave the firm one term and record the new extended period ... because you had so much the way of deferred compensation options ... his heart and arteries one went through prayer to find another firm that wanted one only ... basically fully compensate you for your stock and options been left behind ... the things that you thought about hypothetically doing so they could do anything you want ... to work for hedge fund into work for ... recent appear on business or ... whatever so in some ways is a variation ... all this and senior Wall Street positions probably sacrificed a great deal of family time ... the benefit of career ... advancement by of twins who now sixteen years old in this that too much of their ... top of that so ... when we wanted to spend more time with the family book and there ... is no way to do that and continue to fill one of the gifts that were expected ... very close to many many people and literally several thousand people and brothers ... hearing them all over the world from Singapore to ... cause European women traveling ... my can of running into someone or have a formal gathering ... you can imagine that the fifth anniversary coming up this informal gathering the formal and informal gathering in ... quite a number Lien alumni in some ways to fund a stronger some slight Bilbo ... the good analogy is low that strong because it's not as if we're in real physical battle ... but we unfortunately lost the battle lost the war is too far ... I guess it's some ways akin to the Confederate army ... Gettysburg survivors getting began in eighteen eighty ... and reminiscing about what to replace that lost the battle that they that they were so brave soldiers in ... the prata the service we feel the same way ... I love this field ... I love it for ... being involved in how the markets that love what I do ... in the SNP daily compensation ... the realization that I'd previously contemplated ... retiring ... year to you as close to full retirement benefits of when ... I look back and stay in some ways ... there is always he was a blessing that that they don't have to be concerned ... though I am still working ... the Kappa market in something of the continued pursuit many years to come ... up ... I generally am happy to agree on ... it's one of one of the summer ... he became very mature badly and others will ... think about everyday there's not a day doing professionally ... going around the world where someone doesn't remind me ... remember this one where another ...

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Arkansas has become the 23rd state to confirm the presence among bats of White-nose syndrome, a deadly fungal disease.
This confirmation means that the disease, which has wiped out millions of bats in northern states since its discovery in 2006, continues to progress southward. The loss of the bats, which eat insects, including agricultural pests, is negatively affecting ecosystems across the eastern half of the US.
In Arkansas, Game and Fish Commission workers documented the disease in two northern long-eared bats found in a cave managed by the Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission in Marion County.
The fungus is spread primarily from bat to bat or can be carried in advertantly through caves by humans on clothing, boots and equipment. It is not known to pose a threat to human health, or to pets and livestock, according to game officials.
According to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission:
"A total of five dead bats were found during a Jan. 11 survey of the Marion County cave. Two of the bats were collected and submitted to the U.S. Geological Survey National Wildlife Health Center where it was confirmed both bats had the fungus. Both bats had damage to wing, ear and tail membranes consistent with white-nose syndrome.
"Researchers returned to the cave a week after their initial survey and found 116 endangered Ozark big-eared bats, 15 northern long-eared bats and 30 tricolored bats in the cave. No visible signs of WNS were seen on these bats. WNS is known to impact both northern long-eared bats and tricolored bats, but has not yet been known to harm Ozark big-eared bats. During the winter of 2012-13 an estimated 220 Ozark big-eared bats hibernated in Arkansas caves."
The US Fish and Wildlife Service proposed in the fall of 2013 that the northern long-eared bats — which are affected by WNS — be declared an endangered species and receive federal protection. Arkansas already classes the bat as endangered.
Last summer, officials detected a "low level of the fungus" that causes white-nose syndrome in a cave at Devil's Den State Park in Washington County and a private cave located in southern Baxter County.
The fungus also was found in swab samples taken in Arkansas from hibernating bats in February 2012 and January 2013, according to the AFGS, which was participating in a study funded by the National Science Foundation to track the disease.
"After finding out that the fungus was present Arkansas last year, it wasn't a surprise to confirm that white-nose syndrome was killing bats this winter," said Blake Sasse, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission's Nongame Mammal Program Leader.
In March 2010, the Arkansas commission closed all caves on AGFC land and Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission natural areas/wildlife management areas to prevent the spread of white-nose syndrome.
The AGFC encourages owners of caves on private lands to also close their caves to public access in order to protect bats.
The agency also urges cave explorers to check with land owners and property managers before visiting any cave and to decontaminate clothing, footwear and equipment before and after cave visits.
Cave explorers can find more information about WNS decontamination protocols at WhiteNoseSyndrome.org.
People should watch for unusual behavior among bats during the winter months. Sickened bats have been known to fly around outside during the day and cluster near the entrances of caves and mines where they hibernate.
Experts estimate that bat populations have declined by 80 to nearly 100 percent in the regions most affected by the epidemic.
People can help the bats by building bat houses on their property to provide shelter for bats seeking cover. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has posted some ideas for bat abodes on its website.
Learn more at WhiteNoseSyndrome.org.


text:
This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2013, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Thirty missionaries from the Truth in Love Ministry are in Utah this week, knocking on doors to "talk positively about Christianity" with Mormons.
"This is our first day out on the street, and it's going really good," said Pastor Mark Cares, president of the nondenominational group based in Nampa, Idaho, which has members across the country. "People were very nice and kind as they listen to our message. Some won't agree, but 95 percent of the time they are very courteous. We have been getting into a lot of conversations."
In the past week, the privately funded group placed half-page ads in both The Salt Lake Tribune and LDS Church-owned Deseret News, 11 ads on bus shelters in West Valley City and Taylorsville and mailed out 20,000 slick brochures.
All carried the same message: Eternal life is a gift from God so believers don't have to worry about being worthy.
"You have recently been told at [LDS] General Conference that if you love God, trust him, believe him and follow him, that you will feel his love and approval," it says in the brochure. "But what if you are doing all that and still don't feel God's love or approval?"
The brochure and ads don't take direct aim at the Utah-based LDS faith, but they do subtly contrast Mormon teachings about grace and works with traditional Christian emphasis on grace alone.
Fifteen years ago, hundreds of representatives from the Southern Baptist Convention, which was holding its national meeting in the Beehive State, knocked on Utahns' doors. The Baptists had produced books such as Mormonism Unmasked and a media campaign critical of the LDS Church, so many expected hostility between the two groups.
But most exchanges then as now were civil.
"The [LDS] Church has long maintained that religious conversations can take place with a spirit of mutual respect," LDS Church spokeswoman Ruth Todd said Monday.
John Morehead, director of the Evangelical Chapter of the Foundation for Religious Diplomacy, believes Cares "does a better job than many evangelicals in trying to communicate the doctrinal differences between evangelicals and Mormons and doing so in ways that may communicate more effectively with Mormons."
Cares does not run "a counter-cult ministry," said Morehead, who has produced his own video aimed at Mormons called "Transitions," "but he does tend to follow the paradigm of counter-cult ministries in doctrinal contrast."
No doubt, Morehead said, this group is "pushing back here on Mormon [door-to-door] efforts."
There are five LDS missions in the Salt Lake City metro area, including the Temple Square mission, Todd said, with between 150 and 200 full-time missionaries each.
The Idaho-based group should realize, Morehead said, that "door-to-door evangelism is not very effective, and when it takes place, the perception of the messenger is often one of hostility that blocks the reception of the message."
So far, Cares said Monday, most of their exchanges with Utahns have been cordial.
"Our philosophy is not to talk about Mormonism," he said, "but to talk positively about Christianity."
Cares said Truth in Love which is sending 30 more missionaries to Utah next week doesn't "want to debate."


text:
Mr. Brian Jesser
5717 Reseda Boulevard #D-306
Tarzana, CA 91357
Dear Brian:
I'd like to thank you for submitting your screenplay to Money Shot Pictures. While your writing certainly shows potential, I'm afraid your script is simply not a good fit for our studio. Quite frankly, your screenplay lacks nearly all the qualities we look for in a manuscript.
However, out of respect for everything your father has done for this studio, I wanted to extend you the courtesy of a personal reply. So you know, when Dick first told me his son was breaking into the business, I was more-than-anxious to see what you would produce. And truth be told, when your script arrived last week, I was quite optimistic. The title alone ("The Golden Shower") seemed to indicate your knowledge of industry terminology as well as a great deal of marketing savvy (my mind was racing with taglines, e.g., "It's a pisser!" and "Slippery when wet!"). Anyway, you can imagine my shock when I discovered your screenplay was not at all about the niche act of one urinating on their sexual partner, but rather the renovation of a bathroom inside an Indian palace, set in 1933.
This brings me to my next criticism: plot. While admittedly interesting and surprisingly detail-oriented, I can't help but wonder if this story would be better suited for a more mainstream audience. See, when writing for our industry, it is imperative to keep the plot relatively unassuming. Take, for example, the following loglines of some of our most successful features:
a. "A woman, hungry for some love, orders a pizza."
b. "Young pizza boy delivers more than pepperoni."
c. "Sorority sisters spend the night eating Italian."
This is not to say that aspiring writers must adhere only to these formulas. On the contrary, we are always open to reading original stories that feature unique characters (e.g., aliens), settings (e.g., office boardroom), and plot twists (e.g., the maid is sleeping with her boss, his wife, and the gardener!). Of course, as proven by the commercial success of "That Bitch Is Fine!" and "Those Aren't Pillows!," sometimes it's more beneficial to skip the plot all together and just go right to the sex.
Another point of contention with your manuscript would be the budget necessary to produce such a project. I'm sure your father has told you "war stories" about life on set. Fore example, when this studio produced "Private Dick" in 1975, we spent a staggering $3,500¾and that included the good cop/bad cop costumes for Dick's dual role. Point is, acquiring funding for our films is quite challenging. As a result, it is extremely unlikely we could fund scenes that feature "a mob of several thousand protesting outside the gold-laden palace" (pg. 68), "a 45-minute battle culminates in the fiery explosion of the palace" (pg. 122), or "an original John Williams score that tugs at our heartstrings" (pg. 205).
To be perfectly honest, the cost of producing even one of these scenes would be more than nine times what it cost to produce "Land of 10,000 Nipples" ¾ our most elaborate production to date (for obvious reasons)!
Finally, I would like to call attention to the dialogue itself, more specifically, questioning the necessity of it. For example, you write:
SANJAY: You mustn't stay here, Rupa. The prince will find out!
RUPA: I cannot hide my love for you any longer!
Sanjay and Rupa embrace passionately.
If I may, here is an alternative, and more industry-friendly, way to write that scene:
SANJAY: Did somebody order a pizza?
RUPA: Let's have sex.
Rupa rides Sanjay like a roller coaster.
I hope you will not be discouraged by this letter. As I stated, your writing shows a great mastery of storytelling (no doubt a reflection of your studies at NYU Film School). Nevertheless, if you are committed to pursuing a career within our industry, I think it would behoove you to become more familiar with current titles. I recommend you watch "Pizza Party," "Sorority Sleaze," or really anything in your father's "BBQ Butt Rub" series.
I wish you much luck in your future endeavors.
Lawrence H. Tomlinson
Money Shot Pictures
P.S. Tell your old man I'll see him at "Boob Con" next month.


text:
Defiance, Mo.— Bring History to life at Lindenwood University's Historic Daniel Boone Home Annual Pioneer Days Sept. 18 and 19. Step back into the early 19th century and visit with musicians, artisans, craftsman, and those men and woman who dared to blaze the path into the unknown. Meet with the legendary hero Daniel Boone in his home and listen to the amazing tales of his adventures.
The event begins both days at 9 a.m. and ends at 5 p.m. Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors (55 and older), and $6 for children (age 4-11). Family passes and group rates are available with a two-week prior reservation. Call 636-798-2005 for details or visit www.lindenwood.edu/boone. Activities and special programs will take place throughout the day, including period music, a black powder shoot, blacksmithing, pottery, Dutch oven cooking and more. Children will also be able to partake in the fun with tomahawk throwing, sack races, tug-of-war tournaments, hay mazes, and all sorts of period games and activities.
The site's historic pioneer village will be transformed into a living town with men and women of the time carrying out their daily activities. Visitors will view the many historic buildings including the Carpenter's shop, the General Mercantile, the schoolhouse, the grist mill, and, of course, the Daniel Boone Home.
Located at 1868 Highway F in Defiance, Mo., the Daniel Boone Home is the house in which the legendary explorer and frontiersman spent his final years. The four-story Georgian-style home was built overlooking the Femme Osage Valley. The adjoining Boonefield Village contains a dozen other 19th century building that have been moved from the area and are used to represent town life on the frontier.
For additional information on Pioneer Days, contact Amanda Carrow at firstname.lastname@example.com or visit our website at www.lindenwood.edu/boone.


text:
tb1024 wrote:Sounds promising having PGE on smartphones. However, it'll take a long time to fix the UI and massive memory usage of the editor.
btw, when this project is finished, most gamer phones and tablets will play it fine, I think.
With the leaps and bounds in technological advancements being made right now, I think it would be safe to bet that pretty much and phone or tablet (or Apple watch apparently) will be able to bear the load. I have to admit, I was excited for SMBX online back in the day, but I never would have thought of this. This could essentially be our best chance of "getting it out there" into the wide world of games/engines. Let's face it, most people, if they have a computer, then they'll most likely have at least one Smart device.


text:
Oil prices rise on OPEC expectations, Iraq jitters
The price of oil edged higher above $104 on Wednesday, ahead of an OPEC meeting in Europe that is expected to keep production levels steady for the year even as demand looks set to grow.
By early afternoon in Europe, benchmark U.S. oil for July delivery was up 11 cents to $104.46 a barrel in electronic trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange. On Tuesday, the contract fell 6 cents.
Brent crude, a benchmark for international oils, was up 42 cents to $109.94 a barrel on the ICE Futures exchange in London.
Wednesday's OPEC meeting is largely expected to keep the cartel's output target of 30 million barrels a day unchanged.
"For months now, the OPEC basket price has been moving within a comfortable range of between $100 and $110 per barrel," said analysts at Commerzbank in a note to clients. "There is no reason for the OPEC members to take any sort of surprising decision that would disturb this equilibrium, as this is the status quo that is preferred by all parties."
Geopolitical risks for energy markets were reinforced by al-Qaida-inspired militants overrunning much of the Iraqi city of Mosul on Tuesday. Mosul is in an area that is usually — though not presently — a major gateway for Iraqi oil.
Also adding to upward pressure on oil prices are the faltering talks on solving Ukraine's gas payments to Russia as well as global indicators suggesting a pickup in growth in the second half of the year.
The U.S. Energy Department's weekly stockpiles report is due out later Wednesday. It is expected to show falls of 1.2 million barrels in crude oil stocks and of 500,000 barrels in gasoline stocks for the week ended June 6, according to a survey of analysts by Platts, the energy information arm of McGraw-Hill Cos.
In other energy futures trading on Nymex:
— Wholesale gasoline rose 1.18 cents to $2.986 a gallon.
— Natural gas slipped 0.3 cent to $4.527 per 1,000 cubic feet.
— Heating oil added 1.06 cents to $2.894 a gallon.


text:
Wherein We Show Paleontologists What Ceratopsians Really Looked Like, Prove They Interacted With Humans, Name a New Dinosaur, Solve A Mystery--and Eat Garlic Chicken Over Rice
There is precious little data about dinosaurs to transcend. What the museum scientists know about Indians, whales, and elephants is more than enough to mimic real life. But when it comes to dinosaurs, all they really have to work with is an incomplete jumble of bones. .... And the elephants are a special case. There's a running joke among professional dinosaur artists that goes like this: Given just an elephant skeleton, they'd probably render a titanic hamster....Discover Magazine..What Did Dinosaurs Like, and Will We Never Know
Here at s8int.com, we believe we've shown in this section that evidence exists in archaic art to support the idea that "ancient" man lived with and/or interacted with "dinosaurs". Looking at ancient art could permit us to go back in history as if using a time machine.
Just as anthropologists have shaped our view of "ancient man" by drawing him as a primitive from just a few bones (in other words, they used pure imagination) paleontologists and artists working with them have used virually their imaginations alone to describe what dinosaurs looked like. We assert that they may have been way off when it comes to ceratopsians. We think all those images of the ceratopsians are probably wrong in a vey important detail. The proboscis. Far fetched? Of course it is, particularly if you're convinced dinosaurs died out 65 million years ago.
Comparison of frill detail. "Anomaly" on Nepal sculpture "matches", "toelike" frill detail on typical some ceratopsian skulls.
This piece was described as a Mythological Aquatic Creature" by staff of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. The piece is made of metal and is from Nepal, Himalayas, 10th century, i.e. approximately 16oo years ago. Clearly though, this is not a mythological creature. We recognized almost immediately the similarity it bore to the skulls of the ceratopsian dinosaurs, particularly Styracosaurus--except for the trunk of course.
Could paleontologists have gotten it wrong? Why not? They got evolution wrong, many of them. And they got the extinction of dino's 65 million years ago wrong. Also, remember that there is nothing about an elephant's skull to indicate it has a long trunk. Maybe, this dino is actually a mammal (another paleontogological mistake)....maybe related to the elephant...
Below, right, we; introduce the correct likeness Styracosaurus Camille,as we've named it, prove to those who can accept it(it's hard to build a case for this from one piece of art--but science often builds its dinos from less than that) --that the artist must have seen this dinosaur, and solve a Mystery. Then we eat!Of course, we could be wrong!
Tibetan mask & frilled Nepal Roof ornament from same geographical area indicate that it is in fact the head of a dino/dragon that is portrayed on the piece in question ; the trunk may or may not be a "fantastic". element.
The MysteryLIVING STEGODONT OR GENETIC FREAK?
(C) Copyright Ben S. Roesch 1995
In February and March of 1992, the intrepid British explorer Sir John Blashford-Snell was trekking through a remote valley in the Bardia region of western Nepal in search of "giant elephants" reported by the locals.
Two representatives of these strange elephants, both bulls, were eventually observed - and photographed.
The two beasts, living up to their reputation, were estimated to have footprints measuring 22.5 inches across and a height to the shoulders of 11 feet 3 inches, which makes them even larger than the largest-ever recorded specimen of the Asian elephant, Elephas maximus.
Adding to the confusion was the presence of two very large domes on each elephant's forehead, and a distinctive nasal bridge. These two features are not present on normal Asian elephants, but are, however, distinct on an extinct species of primitive elephant, the Stegodont.
(s8int.com suggests that they saw a "betrunked" member of the "ceratopsians" family with one of the many varieties of frill, horns and headgear)
Of course, the problem is that the Stegodont , the ancestor of both the African and Asian elephants we know today, as well as the extinct mammoth, apparently died out more than a million years ago.
But this didn't stop Canadian paleontologist Dr. Clive Coy , as well as Snell himself, to speculate that the giant Nepalese elephants could very well be, in fact, representatives of the presumedly extinct Stegodont.
However romantic and likable, not to mention being a great cryptozoological triumph, the Stegodont theory is now thought to be unlikely. The theory now favoured by cryptozoologists, is that these "giant elephants" are more likely to be mutant versions of the normal Asian elephant, rather than a Stegodont or even a separate, new species of elephant.
One of the reasons behind this more orthodox solution is that a stegodont surviving to this day is perhaps a little far fetched (though nothing is truly far-fetched in cryptozoology!).
Another more scientific explanation is the fact that the elephants live in an isolated valley, and when a small population of any species of animal is isolated in a region, and begins to interbreed, genetic mutations are bound to crop up over time.
But even if the creatures are genetic mutations, they are still quite intriguing, and may even be evolution in the making; therefore, these giant elephants should not be simply dismissed as uninteresting "freaks", but rather warrant further investigation.
And when these investigations take place, hopefully a specimen will be anatomically examined by a professional scientist, and the true answer behind its identity will finally be known.
Sources: Coleman, Loren. 1993. "Crypto-Zoo News," Strange Magazine , Fall-Winter, p. 28-29 // Shuker, Karl P.N. 1993. The Lost Ark . London: Harper Collins // Shuker, Karl P.N. 1995. Personal communication, August 19. // Shuker, Karl P.N. 1995. Personal communication, October 23.
Additional InformationFURCICERATOPSIDAE
The furciceratopsids form the largest family of Asian ceratopsians, with over a dozen species, ranging from small forest dwellers to the giant megahorns. They have generalised dentition, a large narrow nasal horn or series of hornlets and prominent jugal spikes.
Most have spiny or stud-like osteoderms set in their scaly hide. They tend to be unfussy feeders, eating any greenery they can easily get to.
Most of the larger species are known to be extremely nearsighted and bad-tempered. Even giant priscataurs will usually give an adult megahorn a wide berth. Smaller forms on the other hand can be extremely shy and cryptic.
(Indian megahorns, the largest living furciceratopsids, range from eastern India to the shores of the South China Sea. Females and young live in small herds whilst adult males are usually solitary.
Their preferred habitat is grassland and open areas in forests, usually close to a watercourse where they wallow and bathe. Its powerful beak can demolish even the toughest of plants.
Research suggests that the extracts of the Megahorn's horn possesses an extremely potent aphrodisiac quality and could form the basis of a highly lucrative pharmaceutical trade.
Source: http://www.bowdoin.edu/~dbensen/Spec/Cenoceratopsia.html
Do we really know what dinosaurs looked liked or how they behaved?
Putting a dinosaur skeleton together is not easy. It is often like putting together a very difficult jigsaw puzzle with many of the pieces missing or damaged. The skeletons are usually very incomplete.
Many dinosaur fossils are discovered badly damaged. Bones are often found crushed or bent by the great weight of the dirt and rock above. Sometimes parts from different creatures are mixed together. This just adds to the confusion.
Unfortunately, some scientists have not been careful enough in their descriptions of dinosaurs. They have told grand stories of how dinosaurs looked and behaved. All of these descriptions are based on guesswork - the imaginations of people who have never seen a living dinosaur.
Some scientists have made complete pictures of dinosaurs based on just a single bone or tooth or leg. Such pictures are based on many guesses and very little facts. The scientists' ideas often turn out to be wrong when more facts are discovered.
Dinosaur fossils are not found with labels or photographs attached showing what the animals looked like. That is why no pictures of dinosaurs are exactly right. Every dinosaur painting is sure to contain at least some wrong information. No artist ever saw the living, breathing animals - complete with skin, flesh and color.
For instance, imagine never having seen or heard of a poodle or a peacock. One day you find the jumbled bones of one buried in the ground. You try to put the bones together to form a skeleton. And then you try to draw a picture of what the animal looked like when alive.
But bones cannot tell the whole story. Even if you are a very good artist, it would be a miracle if you drew a true picture of a poodle or a peacock just from the bones and your imagination.
If scientists could climb into a time machine and travel to the past, they could get much better information. Only then would they know the true appearance of dinosaurs or what they ate and how they really behaved.
Scientists might be very surprised at what they would learn.
Excerpt from The Great Dinosaur Mystery and the Bible, Accent Books, 1987
Author: Paul S. Taylor of Eden Communications Copyright © 1995, Eden Communications, All Rights Reserved
Copyright s8int.com 2005
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43
Please Support the Research of S8int.com!
Since 2002, Chris Parker has done the majority of the research and writing of articles for s8int.com. If this site has been an encouragement to you, please donate to support Chris's ongoing research. (S8int.com is not incorporated and your donations may not be tax deductable.)


text:
UPDATE: This plugin has been reported as spam and the links are disabled till further updates. Refer the comments section for more details.
ight from the launch of the new social network, there has been huge buzz around Google Plus. Now that Google has opened doors to everyone, it would be worth watching the public response. With Google Plus giving Facebook a run for their money, here is something that can make things even worse for the latter. Here is a browser extension that will let you access Facebook from within Google+. So you won't have to miss out on your already over-burdened social-life (thanks Facebook) while being on Google Plus.
1. Head over to the Google+Facebook download page and get the extension for your browser. Use the Google+Facebook button.
2. Allow the download to start if your browser (most likely Firefox) blocks it. Install it as you do for other add-ons or extensions.
3. Now log into your Google Plus account and you will notice a Facebook button to the left of the Home button in the top navigation. Click on it.
4. You will now need to use the fConnect button to connect your Facebook account.
5. Once prompted, allow the request for permission to access your Facebook data.
Voila! you will now be able to check your Facebook wall feed from right within Google Plus. You can also update Facebook using this added functionality.
The extension is available for Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome and Internet Explorer.
Techie-Buzz Verdict:
Users of both the service will naturally love the added usability of Google Plus. However there are limitations to the extension currently. You cannot comment or like any of your friend's activities or updates the Facebook way unlike any other popular apps. Well that would mean I'm too demanding. Whatsoever, it definitely is a good attempt to bring things together specially when socializing is the word of the day.
NOTE: You can also try and get a Facebook lookalike Google Plus and vice versa with a little help.


text:
ELIZABETH, N.J. — The man who became known online as Kai, the hatchet-wielding hitchhiker, is recovering from self-inflicted wounds.
Caleb McGillivary was rushed from the Union County jail in New Jersey to a hospital with self-inflicted, non-life threatening injuries on Wednesday.
Union County spokesman Sebastian D'Elia tells The Star-Ledger of Newark the 24-year-old was later taken to another health care facility and is under guard.
D'Elia, citing privacy issues, declined to give details about the injuries.
The Canadian is held on $3 million bail, charged in the May 12 beating of 73-year-old lawyer Joseph Galfy Jr. of Clark.
McGillivary gained a measure of online fame in February after intervening in an attack on a California utility worker in which he described using a hatchet to fend off a further attack.


text:
Sony Mobile's official Twitter account today tweeted that the Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean update for the Xperia P, go, S, SL and arco S are in the final stages of testing, and that the company will release more information next week.
Sony had initially promised to update its 2012 range of selected Xperia handsets to Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean by early-April. What is appalling is that while Sony has managed to update some of its lower-end Xperia devices to Jelly Bean, its 2012 flagship handset – the Xperia S – is still running a bug ridden Android 4.0.4 firmware.
The official tweet from Sony is as follows -:
Just a quick update to say we hear you re: JB 4.1 for Xperia P & Go, (S, SL, acro S and ion). Work's in v. final stage – more news next week
Since Sony has mentioned the name of the Xperia S, SL, acro S and ion in parenthesis, it might very well be possible that the updates for these phones won't be available immediately.
While Sony is still struggling to update its 2012 flagship devices to Jelly Bean, Samsung not only updated its 2012 flagship – the Galaxy S3 – to Jelly Bean, but also updated its 2011 flagship – the Galaxy S2 – to Android 4.1.2.
Via – Xperia Blog


text:
Stone Soup Inn B&B
Built in 1901, The Stone Soup Inn is an impressive example of Colonial Revival architecture.
Looking Glass Inn
Built in 1905, the Looking Glass Inn is located in the heart of the Old Northside, an area that was home for the principal leaders of Indianapolis at the turn of the century.
Nestle Inn
The most "downtown" of Indy's b&b's - 1896 Victorian totally renovated and renewed in 2000.
Yellow Rose Inn
The Yellow Rose Inn has been created to offer travelers on the road of life a rest stop marked by beauty for the eyes, nurturing for the body, happiness for the heart, and memories
Villa Inn
Six upscale guestrooms feature private Jacuzzi tub baths, king or queen size beds, CATV/DVD, phones with voicemail, a private roof top terrace for exclusive use of overnight guests
Stay at a Carmel, Indiana Bed and Breakfasts and Inns for the personal attention you desire. A Carmel B&B is a great alternative to hotels or motels while visiting the state of Indiana!
Visit our Carmel, Indiana bed and breakfast directory of historic, romantic, and adventure B&B's. You can browse through our detailed listings of Carmel, Indiana bed and breakfasts and inns with nearby city listings that include pictures, room rates, booking information and area activities. Every Carmel, Indiana b&b inns has complete contact information and a direct link to the innkeepers.


text:
In this game, try not to colour two adjacent regions the same colour. Can you work out a strategy?
As part of Liverpool08 European Capital of Culture there were a huge number of events and displays. One of the art installations was called "Turning the Place Over". Can you find our how it works?
Here is a chance to create some Celtic knots and explore the mathematics behind them.
In this article, Rachel Melrose describes what happens when she mixed mathematics with art.
How can you make a curve from straight strips of paper?
Make new patterns from simple turning instructions. You can have a go using pencil and paper or with a floor robot.
This is a simple paper-folding activity that gives an intriguing result which you can then investigate further.
In abstract and computer generated art, a real object can be represented by a simplified set of lines. Can you create a picture using mathematical instructions?


text:
The art show and sale on February 26 between 7 and 10 pm. at 101-407 Ludlow Street, Saskatoon, SK, S7S 1P3 will display certain pieces, although all images can be bought on the art gallery website.
The following original piece is not on display on the 26th of February but will be available in many different sizes, and presentation types. It can be purchased as a cell phone case, a shower curtain, a canvas print, a framed print, print, acrylic print, metal print, greeting card, throw pillow, duvet cover and tote bag. All of darren's art can be purchased and delivered right to your door from his art gallery at the following url:


text:
We've created our very own sizing chart to help decide which size to purchase. We've also added into our descriptions the truth about the fit and materials. Of course if you're ever concerned, feel free to jump onto live chat and one of our stylists would be happy to assist!
- Same fit as our famous TOVIE TOP
- Pink and white stripe
- Loose fitting basic
- High/Low hemline
- Scooping neckline
- Looser fitting sleeves 3/4 length
- Baby bump friendly
- Ash wears a size 8
- Loose fit, stay true to size or size down for a more fitted feel
- 85% Cotton
- 10% Polyester
- 5% Spandex
- Cold Hand Wash separately
We love shipping to all of our babes which means #express is offered pretty much worldwide. But if your inside Australia expect super fast shipping. See all shipping times and pricing here
We want you to be 100% happy! We try our best to give you the ultimate insight into our product fit, shape and style. Plus, we're only choosing the BEST of the best in terms of quality and durability. That being said, we've made it super easy to return something if it just isn't quite right.. See more here.
Other babes harte us too! See their thoughts below.
Customer Reviews
- choosing a selection results in a full page refresh
- press the space key then arrow keys to make a selection


text:
Click "Sponsor Now" to add Hannah Wangui to your order.
"If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in need, but does not show compassion - how can God's love be in that person? Dear children, let's not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions." – 1 John 3:17-18 (NLT)
Thank you for considering a child sponsor. It is our prayer that your selection today is the beginning of a wonderful relationship with your sponsor child. Not only will your child benefit from your donations, but will also be blessed by your communications and prayers. We ask that you please pray about choosing a monthly contribution amount and act accordingly. Upon completing child sponsorship signup, feel free to send a message to him or her and begin your relationship and correspondence! I know that it will put a smile on your sponsor child's face and on our Heavenly Father's face as well! May God bless you!
"I waited patiently for the Lord; He turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; He set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in Him." – Psalm 40:1-3.
The vision of Heritage of Faith and Hope Children Rehabilitation Centre is to empower vulnerable children and orphans who can elevate themselves to a meaningful and productive lifestyle. Since 2002, Heritage of Faith has provided high-quality education and community living to children within Nairobi. On a foundation of Christian values, Heritage of Faith impacts the community by changing the lives of children and staff—many who are adolescent orphans and young adults, by preparing them for adulthood with strong professional skills and work experience. Students within the school are at the top of Kenya's education system and score in the top 5% on national exams. Since 2003, Heritage of Faith has partnered with business mentors through Partners Worldwide to strengthen and grow their effective approach to orphan care.


text:
|This user attends Lumbridge University
This documentation is transcluded from Template:Userbox/doc.
The Userbox template is used to quickly create a userbox for display on a user's user page without having to know HTML or wiki syntax.
{{Userbox |id = id text or image |id-c = id background colour |id-fc = id font colour |id-s = id text size |info = info text |info-c = info background colour |info-fc = info font colour |info-s = info text size |border-c = box colour |border-s = border width (in pixels) }}
Additional notes
- It is suggested that the size of any images in the id box be limited to 36x36 pixels.
- For a list of colours and the Hex codes for them, see Help:Colour codes
List of subpages
Community content is available under CC-BY-SA unless otherwise noted.


text:
| 10.2°C Belfast
Eidur Gudjohnsen has joined Fulham on loan from Stoke until the end of the season.
The Potters gave the go-ahead for the Iceland international to make the move shortly before the 11pm transfer deadline on Monday.
The 32-year-old former Chelsea and Barcelona striker then agreed personal terms with the Cottagers and passed a medical, which was organised locally so that he could complete the paperwork in time.
Gudjohnsen, who becomes a free agent in the summer at the end of his one-year contract with Stoke, has made just five substitute appearances since arriving at the Britannia Stadium last August.
"It has been an incredibly frustrating time for Eidur," City manager Tony Pulis told www.stokecityfc.com.
"But he has been an outstanding professional and a great influence around the place in his time here.
"Unfortunately, he didn't get the games that he needed to build up his match fitness, but this loan move presents him with a chance to do that."
Meanwhile, Fulham have loaned out Florida-born forward Eddie Johnson to Preston for the rest of the campaign.


text:
Billy Eichner returns irreverent game show to streets
NEW YORK (AP) -- Imagine walking to work on the streets of New York and finding yourself in front of a camera being asked pop culture questions by a kinetically insane game show host.
It could happen if you run into Billy Eichner.
On his weekly show, "Funny or Die's Billy on the Street," the comedian quizzes pedestrians by asking irreverent questions -- "Does Lady Gaga look like an ostrich?" -- or by rattling off a list of celebrity names and having players confirm if they're "Dead or Boring." Prizes range from a dollar bill to a ream of paper.
There's just one caveat: some of the answers are subjective, and must conform to the host's opinions. Eichner began the man-on-the-street-style game show on YouTube, but last year Fuse picked up as a weekly television series. It airs every Friday night.
Recently, the Queens-born comedian sat down with the Associated Press to talk about the show and his fascination with Meryl Streep.
AP: Running up to New Yorkers on the street isn't always a safe thing to do. Have you ever felt threatened?
Eichner: Nine times out of 10 people are game. You know, pardon the pun. But they are. They might not want to participate, they might just walk past me, but they're not angry. Once in a while I've had a handful of occurrences where people get angry. An old lady slapped me across the face really hard. You know, people sort of like, shake the camera -- you know they do that Sean Penn thing where they're like, 'Get out of my face.' ... It's never gotten crazy but verbally it gets heated and that's what's fun about the show.
AP: Last season was pretty funny, how do you plan to step up your game this time around?
Eichner: This season's a nice mix of real people on the street and celebrity guests. Will Ferrell, Maya Rudolph and Rashida Jones, Debra Messing, a lot of people. Zach Quinto. It's a lot. Andy Cohen. Rachel Dratch. It's really great people.
AP: This season papa comes home, your "Funny Or Die" founder Will Ferrell. What do you have planned?
Eichner: Will plays a game with me called, "Would Drew Barrymore like this?" and I run down a list of things and he has to tell me whether or not he thinks Drew Barrymore would like that and I tell him based on my objective opinion whether I think he's right or wrong based on my vision of what Drew Barrymore would or would not like. And then we play a game with him called 'Scream for an American Girl doll' and it's him versus these 7-, 8-year-old girls on the street and they have like a scream off to see who can win this American Girl doll and it's pretty funny.
AP: What else do you have in store for your celebrity guests?
Eichner: Playing all kinds of games. Rachel Dratch was on our show last season. She played a game where she had to name 20 white people in 30 seconds and she couldn't do it. She had a meltdown. She just panicked and couldn't do it. So we brought her back to redeem herself this year and she runs our first "Billy on the Street" obstacle course, which is really fun. It has a special theme I can't talk about but it's unlike anything you've ever seen, I'll say that.
AP: Do you consider yourself a new wave game show host?
Eichner: (Laughs) Maybe. No. I'm a comedian for the most part. I like talking to people to get their reaction, and yes I do ask them question like a game show host. But the correct answer is more about my opinion than fact. So then no.
AP: Tell me some funny things that you do?
Billy Eichner: I like to go up to really straight looking dudes and say, OK, if I held a gun to your head and you had to have sex with one guy who would it be? Like, is it Brad Pitt? Who could you make it happen with if absolutely necessary? I like to push people's buttons a little bit. Sort of get past their comfort zone and also see what comes to their mind when they don't have much prep time. That's what's fun about the show. You get people's initial gut reactions to things. I went up to a guy I think this was in the first or second episode this season in Times Square and I said, "Sir, name one celebrity you hate for a dollar" and he's like, "I hate Richard Gere." And like, Richard Gere is who this person says? You couldn't write it. It's so bizarre. I love that.
AP: Is your Meryl Streep fascination real?
Eichner: Ummm, yes. I got into an argument with this street guy over Meryl Streep last season. He kept calling her Meryl Streak. Like she's a porn star. She's not a porn star. She's just the greatest actress ever. She won Oscars. Who did he like? Glenn Close. He said she was new millennium or something and Meryl Streep was just old school. He was wrong. Glenn Close was in "Dangerous Liasons" a hundred years ago.
Online: www.funnyordie/billyonthestreet
John Carucci covers entertainment for The Associated Press. Follow him at http://www.twitter.com/jcarucci_ap


text:
Welcome to SAS Fabrics in South Bay/Los Angeles and Orange County, California. We are in the process of moving to our new online store at https://www.sasfabricscalifornia.com. Come view our catalog and make an order for pickup!
You'll be able to find the biggest selection of fabric, trim, and notions for all occasions sold by the pound or by the yard at amazing low prices!
Hawthorne – South Bay Los Angeles
SAS Fabrics
13500 Hawthorne Blvd.
Hawthorne, CA 90250
(310) 978-8985
(18,000 square feet of fabrics galore)
Family owned fabric store since 1965
We're always getting something new and unique. Our fabric and trim selections vary on a weekly basis with special pricing. We invite you to our fabric stores.
Stanton, Anaheim – Orange County
Fabric Outlet & Crafts
10450 Beach Blvd.
Stanton, CA 90680
(714) 995-2723
(SAS' sister store in Orange County)
"Love it here! So much to choose from with great prices!!! You will need to take time to look though everything. For someone loves to sew, I felt like a kid in a candy store! 🙂
"What a great secret this place is. Fabric selection is rad AND I'm in love with the sweet ladies who work there. I'm definitely a fan."
"The prices here are unbeatable!"
"Fabric by the pound = cheap fabric! Lots of choices and helpful staff."
"I'm amazed at all the selection of unique and one-of-a-kind fabric for quilting, costumes, and home decor. They have aisles of trim and decorations so take your time to look at everything."
Tackle that sewing or quilting project!
Costume & Apparel Fabric
Satin, Velvet, Flannel, Spandex
Home Decor, Upholstery Fabric
Quilting, Cotton, Seasonal Prints
Trim, Embellishments, Yarn, Lace


text:
Welcome To MyEzdollarclub! A Simple & Easy Way To Start Earning An Extra Income From Home While You Building A Team To Follow You On Your Next Online Ventures!
This Is A Great Way To Start Building Trust And Relationship With Your Downline Members. This Is Only $1 And There's No Other Fee Ever.


text:
Behind the Sweets: Nellcôte's Nate Meads Makes Pain Perdu
It's hard not to immediately like a pastry chef who, after being asked if he personally likes the dish in question, answers with an enthusiastic "Yeah! Have you had it?" I have indeed had it, and written something of a love letter to it, even. So when I looked back over the past year to gather my top 10 favorite sweets and revisited that ode of a post, I realized I had to know what exactly went into producing one of my favorite dishes in Chicago. Luckily for me, Nate Meads, who has been the pastry chef at Nellcôte and RM Champagne Salon since they both opened last year, was happy to show me exactly what goes into it.
The first ingredient is no small amount of time. Not including rising or baking time for the brioche that serves as a sponge-like base, this dish takes a combined total of about two hours. The beauty of it though, is that it serves the exact purpose it was meant to serve when the French created it years ago: it puts to use the day-old brioche that Nellcôte offers as part of their bread service. The second ingredient, as you may have gathered from the above picture, seems to be caramel. Take a peek through the slideshow for more crispy, caramelly, behind-the-scenes action.
833 W Randolph St Chicago, IL 60607 (map)
All products linked here have been independently selected by our editors. We may earn a commission on purchases, as described in our affiliate policy.


text:
JNN 05 May 2012 Moscow : Russia's military intelligence organization (GRU) believes that Washington was behind the crash of a Russian Sukhoi Superjet 100 plane in Indonesia earlier in May, which killed 45 passengers onboard.
"We know that they have special equipment that can cut communications between an aircraft and the ground or interfere with the parameters on board," the Christian Science Monitor quoted a GRU general as saying, without mentioning his name.
The Superjet, which was crucial to Russia's hopes of becoming a major player in the modern aviation market, took off from an airport in the capital Jakarta on May 9 on a demonstration flight, but it lost radio contact and vanished from radar screens 50 minutes later.
The general further noted that the electronic jamming of the jet's onboard equipment is the most plausible explanation for the plane's slamming into the side of a dormant volcano in the Indonesian province of West Java.
Russian intelligence forces have long been watching the activities of U.S. military electronic experts at the Jakarta airport, the senior GRU officer added.
The examination of the aircraft's black box cockpit voice recorder has reportedly shown that there was no systemic problem or functional failure during the minutes before the crash.
The most curious question about the incident is why the plane's pilot, Alexander Yablontsev, who is one of Russia's most experienced test pilots, asked for permission to reduce altitude amid a rainstorm in a dangerously mountainous area, and why a ground controller in Jakarta gave the go-ahead.
"On the other hand, we don't rule out the possibility that this was deliberate industrial sabotage to drive our aircraft from the market," said an unnamed official with the jet's manufacturing company, Sukhoi.
The demonstration flight in Jakarta was part of an Asian tour to promote the aircraft. Sukhoi Superjet 100 had been to Myanmar, Pakistan, and Kazakhstan, and was due to visit Laos and Vietnam after Indonesia.
Such accusations have on certain occasions been borne out by facts. In 2004, a former member of the United States Air Force who was a special advisor to former US President Ronald Reagan disclosed in a book titled At the Abyss, An Insider's History of the Cold War, that in the 1980s, the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) engaged in cyber warfare to sabotage the project of a pipeline that transferred gas from the former Soviet Union to western Europe.


text:
Lennox has more than a hundred years of experience manufacturing some of the finest heating and air conditioning systems available. Your Grandma and Grandpa probably had Lennox equipment in their home—and in some cases the system may even still be there!
If you have Lennox equipment maintaining your home comfort, you can rely on Sunbeam Service Experts in Buffalo to provide factory-authorized professional service and repair.
We are a licensed, highly qualified, nationally certified heating and air conditioning contractor, with the skills and know-how to keep your Lennox HVAC equipment purring away in top form. And with utility costs that meet your budget.
Call Sunbeam Service Experts in Buffalo today at 716-427-6807 for a Precision Tune-Up. That's what we call our routine maintenance service to help assure reliable, energy-efficient operation of your Lennox furnace or AC system.
Or, if your Lennox heating and cooling equipment should ever need repair, call us anytime, 24/7/365.


text:
Photo: Joe Pugliese
Photo: Munshi Ahmed
A Hatsune Miku concert begins humanly enough. If you've ever had the heart to accompany a daughter or niece to, say, a Justin Bieber or Miley Cyrus extravaganza, you know the drill: The young crowd rushes in, giggling, making yelplike noises that adult throats don't make, repeating the titles of songs as if they were mantras. The band emerges, followed by more young-throat noises, followed by the diminutive but eerily poised headliner, who recalls one of those grown-up-looking babies in Renaissance art. Followed by pubescent rapture.
At a Hatsune Miku concert, that's also the moment when the proceedings take a turn for the, well, the only precise way of saying it is for the Japanese. Miku is not human. She is a virtual idol, a holographic star. Miku is crowdsourced, ever-evolving, famous software. Not even her fans know, or care, how to taxonomize her. ("She's rather more like a goddess: She has human parts, but she transcends human limitations. She's the great posthuman pop star," one fansite reads.) Her bandmates are all actual people playing real instruments, but Miku is projected onto the stage, singing, if that's the word, in avian-robot trills. She was programmed to do this months before, thousands of miles away.
Not that her forecoded unreality interferes with widespread adoration. On the contrary, Miku is now one of the biggest acts in Asia—as popular in her native Japan as Sega's iconic Sonic the Hedgehog. She has devotees beyond Japan too. Last November she gave a concert in Singapore, drawing 3,000 fans—only about half of them female, not all young. They sang along in Japanese, a language many of them didn't speak. Some came dressed as Miku. Others waved Miku dolls to the beat. One girl watched a Miku video on her phone while a digitized Miku played in front of her.
A young man holding a Miku figurine aloft like a votive offering said her songs are "very touching." Another fan, Wei Qi, who was 15 and was wearing clip-on cat ears, pointed out that "it doesn't take a human to sing a good song."
Amy, a 13-year-old who'd come with a friend, was even more enthusiastic. The two fans were in full Miku regalia: blue wigs, gray sleeveless one-pieces, and blue clip-on ties. "It's a good thing" Miku isn't human, she said. "She's not going to die. She's not going to turn into Miley Cyrus, where she gets drunk or something."
"She's rather more like a goddess: She has human parts, but she transcends human limitations."
Amy first became interested in Miku after seeing concert footage online. She then submerged herself in Miku subculture, but she knew little about the star's origins. This is just as Miku's creators would have it.
Miku got her start as a marketing ploy. Nearly every corporation and organization in Japan has an anthropomorphized mascot, from the telecom giant NTT Docomo (Docomodake, a glum-faced mushroom) to the Tokyo Metropolitan Police (a flying mouselike creature called Pipo-kun). Miku was conceived as a mascot for Crypton Future Media, a maker of virtual instrument software, the stuff that facilitates the creation of the noise you hear in commercials and videogames but also, increasingly, much of the Top 40.
In 2007 Crypton's CEO, Hiroyuki Itoh, was looking for a way to market a virtual voice program he'd developed using Yamaha's Vocaloid 2 technology. Vocaloid's first version had not sold well because, it was suggested to Itoh, it didn't sound very lifelike. He disagreed. (Japan's appetite for all things humanoid is insatiable, he knew, if properly plied.) What Vocaloid needed, Itoh believed, was an aidoru, an idol. So he engaged an illustrator of graphic novels in Tokyo who goes by the single name Kei. Itoh told Kei he wanted something cute but also slightly edgy, something that would attract creative young people to Vocaloid. Kei came back with a rendering of a 16-year-old girl who was 5'2″ and weighed 92 pounds. She had long, thin legs, coquettish bug-eyes, pigtailed blue locks that reached almost to the ground, and a computer module on her forearm. Her first name, Miku, meant "future"; her surname, Hatsune, "first sound."
Crypton's small office is on a tree-lined boulevard in Sapporo. As Japanese cities go, it's pretty unfuturistic. So is Crypton's office. There are no robot assistants. Instead of a talking Miku holograph, you're greeted in the conference room by a row of Miku figurines and dolls sitting dejectedly on the windowsill.
Like Miku's fans, Itoh has difficulty defining what category of thing Miku falls into. Around the office, he says, she's not referred as an idol or a character or a cartoon.
"She's … Hatsune Miku," he says.
Has he ever imagined a backstory for her? A home, a family, a life before Vocaloid?
"No," he says, as though the pointlessness of that should be obvious. "Just age, height, weight—and outfits."
In fact, it would be pointless; Itoh knew that if Miku caught on, her followers would write her story. Such is the genius, beauty, and grotesque fetishistic wonder of otaku culture. These geeky fans are devoted to characters, not Western-style celebrities. Human stars burn out quickly in Japan, but beloved characters—from Hello Kitty to Gundam—last for years. When a character from an anime series or a manga comic, a videogame, a toy line, or even porn catches on, fans engage with it by making new iterations and variations of their own—homemade videos, manga, games, more porn. The Japanese term for this, niji sousaku, translates as "secondary creativity."
Cultural critic Hiroki Azuma calls the results a "database model" of creation, driven by networks of consumer-producers for whom authenticity and intellectual property are less important than detail and invention. "It is quite ambiguous what the original is or who the original author is, and the consumers rarely become aware of the author or the original. For them, the distinction between the original and the spin-off products (as copies) does not exist," Azuma wrote recently.
Ian Condry, a professor at MIT who teaches courses in Japanese pop culture, including a section on Miku, says the character serves "as a platform people can build on. She becomes a tool of connection who, through people's participation, comes alive."
In a nation plagued by economic entropy, otaku keep things churning. Consider Gundam, the iconic Japanese robot character. In the '70s, a large Japanese toymaker, Clover, created Gundam and sponsored an anime series to market him. The experiment failed, and the show was canceled. But it had developed a cult following. Fans began producing Gundam manga and wearing homemade Gundam T-shirts. Soon Gundam conventions were springing up. Noticing this, Bandai, a company specializing in model kits, bought the rights to the character. Today, Clover is out of business. Bandai, which later got in on the Power Rangers craze, is now the third-largest toymaker in the world.
Otaku preceded the Internet, but the Internet has facilitated it in ways unimaginable a few years ago. Google "Hatsune Miku," and you'll get some of 22 million results. Most of them lead to a Miku fan, not to Crypton.
Miku was "born," as Itoh puts it, on August 31, 2007, with the launch of her software. The program would soon become popular, but from the start Miku attracted her own fans, and they began riffing. Crypton set up a site where they could post their creations, and by that first afternoon, according to Itoh, illustrations of her had appeared. Thousands followed. Fan sites proliferated. Creation myths were assembled. Aspiring apparel designers, collectibles makers, and online-game designers went to work. People wrote songs for her to perform. Someone uploaded a free animation program, MikuMikuDance, for choreographing her routines in music videos.
Today the crowd creates material on a vast scale. About 3,000 fan-made Vocaloid songs are now on Japanese iTunes and Amazon, Itoh estimates, and hundreds of thousands of Miku-related videos have been uploaded to YouTube. Miku songs are regularly among the most-requested karaoke tunes in Japan.
"For a lot of male fans, it's clear that the short skirt that keeps flipping up is pretty important."
She's helped launch the careers of in-demand producers and DJs and animators. A few fans saw a homemade Miku music video in which she plays a fictitious instrument, a kind of keytar with a touchscreen interface. They took a screen capture, blueprinted the thing, and built it. Now it's a real instrument.
That's just online. In Tokyo, one need only go to the Akihabara district to see how deeply Miku has sunk into physical reality. Akihabara is otaku ground zero, a Blade Runner bombardment of the senses that at first glance seems to consist only of pulsing billboards and giggling Japanese girls in costume. Any photos you've seen don't do the place justice: According to local lore, shoppers have been known to collapse in photo-sensitive epileptic fits. Once your eyes adjust, it becomes clear that the office towers contain not offices but floor after floor of shops: cacophonous electronics, comic, doll, fetish, porn, and costume stores. And Miku is everywhere. Miku arcade games, Miku playing cards, Miku wigs. Some of the more interesting material is on the bookshelves. There is a wealth of oddly touching devotional texts: a handsome edition entitled Miku-4 by a fan named Nagimiso, a volume of Miku-inspired poetry and Miku-poetry criticism by Eureka, and a collection of songs transcribed into sheet music called Selection for Piano, with a cover illustration of Miku seated at a baby grand.
"She's a wiki-celebrity," Condry, the MIT professor, says. "Enough people act on her that she takes on a life, but not of her own—everybody else's life."
A 30-minute metro ride from Akihabara is Sega headquarters. Parked outside is a white Toyota station wagon with a vinyl-painted Miku dancing across its doors. Seeing what a phenomenon she had become, Sega partnered with Crypton in 2007. By that point, most of the work that might fall to the lead designer of Project Diva, a Sega Vocaloid game that features Miku, had already been done. Almost all of the songs, along with ideas for her outfits and the landscape settings, were supplied by fans (including some Sega employees who create Miku stuff in their off-hours). The design team, led by Hiroshi Utsumi, picks their favorites.
"If they say it's Hatsune Miku," Utsumi says, "it's Hatsune Miku."
Not surprisingly, this crowdsourced creativity has led to a sub-genre of sexualized Mikus, including brutal sadomasochistic motifs. There is, inevitably, a market for Miku porn. This happens with many characters in Japan, and it's a source of some embarrassment to Itoh and Utsumi—but they don't discourage it. The psychosexual schismatics are an essential part of her appeal, they know. "For a lot of male fans, it's clear the short skirt that keeps flipping up is pretty important," says Condry, who calls the erotica "another thread of the participation. People are having real emotional responses to whatever this object-character is."
Last October, Condry brought Itoh to MIT for a discussion of Crypton's business model—opening up Miku to her highly creative fans. The idea was to compare that approach to the practices of a company like Disney, which would be more likely to sue anyone who attempted to create their own versions of a Disney property. "The students came up to me afterward and said, 'He really gets it. The future is about open source,'" Condry says.
The live shows—with their fan-written songs—are a natural extension of this open source ethos, but Itoh was at first reluctant to give them a try. In the mid-1990s a Japanese talent agency hired software designers to create Kyoko Date, a virtual idol, with the hope of turning her into a music sensation. (Coincidentally, William Gibson's novel Idoru, about a Japanese virtual pop star, was published at the same time.) Kyoko's image was taken from the features of real models, her voice from real singers. She sang, she danced, and she looked very real doing it—and, after a glittery debut, she proved a flop. Japanese fans found Kyoko just real enough to be creepy.
So far they've not had that reaction to Miku, who is just unreal enough, it seems, to be relatable. At a fan convention, Condry told me, he asked some kids why this was. "They said, 'We know she's not a person. We like that she's a machine. Those of us who are into this like dealing with machines more than with people.'"
Her first solo concert, in Tokyo in 2010, sold out. She's played six since, including one in summer 2011 at the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles, where a crowd of nearly 3,000 attended as part of an anime festival. It takes Crypton and Sega more than six months to design a show, each of which is the equivalent of a modest 90-minute animated/live-action movie. Nearly all of the songs are written by fans, and some of them are actually good—musically, anyway (the lyrics usually leave something to be desired).
The fans, it turns out, are the best part of a Miku performance. Sega films the shows like high-end concert documentaries, with special roving light-sensitive cameras, and uploads the footage to the Internet, which is why Miku looks so astonishing on YouTube. It's another ingenious marketing ploy. (Certain reporters have made pilgrimages halfway around the world to see her.) But live, she is a disappointment. She really is only 5'2″, not giant, and not luminescent so much as indifferently lit. Miku actually is a cartoon on a scrim, a dolled-up Chipmunk.
And she's merely a glimpse of the future of disembodied entertainment. At the Coachella music festival in April, a virtual Tupac Shakur was projected onto the main stage during Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg's headlining set. The graphics, created by James Cameron's Digital Domain, were significantly more dazzling than Miku's, though the basic projection method—an optical illusion known as Pepper's Ghost—was the same. Digital Domain is also developing a virtual Elvis.
Miku's diminutive size and the scrim didn't seem to bother anyone at the concert in Singapore, however. That may be because Miku's "actual" appearance wasn't the point for them. They already knew that their affection for her and their ideas of her had outpaced those of her creators. The point for her fans, her more inspired and more important authors, is that they get to finally see one another in person. And to pump glow sticks.
I did meet one girl who shared my disappointment. She was 8 years old (just young enough to still be taking in Miku passively, as I was). As I made my way through the crowd, she tugged on my sleeve. She wore a look of pained confusion. "Excuse me, is that a robot?" she asked, pointing at the stage. Her mother eyed me expectantly.
"No, it's a … a digital projected image," I stammered.
Her expression didn't change.
"Like animation," I added.
"Like, you know, like … Snow White."
Her mother nodded. "It's an image," she said to the girl.
The girl frowned and looked toward the glowing red exit sign.
Contributor James Verini lives in Nairobi. This is his first article for Wired.Go Back to Top. Skip To: Start of Article.


text:
From HaskellWiki
< Performance
| Haskell Performance Resource
Use an explicit export list
(note: this only applies to compilers based on separate compilation like GHC, not to those based on whole-program compilation like JHC).
If you do not have an explicit export list in a module, the compiler must assume that everything in that module will be exported. This disables various useful optimisations:
- If a function is used only once in the current module, and not exported, there is no penalty for inlining the function at its single use point.
- If a function is not used at all, and not exported, its definition can be discarded.
- The compiler has more flexibility regarding calling conventions and the like for functions that are not visible beyond the current compilation unit.
Manual whole program compilation
For compilers with separate module compilation, a whole-program compilation and optimization can be achieved semi-automatically by merging a bundle of modules using Haskell All-In-One.


text:
Miss America: Politics 'natural fit'
Everywhere you turn, it seems, former Miss Americas are running for office.
The current title holder, Mallory Hagan, doesn't think a political run is in her future, however.
"No, no political future for me," Hagan, who hails from New York, told POLITICO. "I think it's great, it's just not for me."
Still, Hagan understands why politics might be an attractive field for former contestants — the most recent of which includes Miss America 2003's Erika Harold announcing she'll challenge Rep. Rodney Davis (R-Ill.) in a GOP primary for his House seat.
( PHOTOS: 10 stars who ran for office)
"I think the relationship makes sense in that Miss America has very service driven young women," Hagan said of the relationship between the competition and politics. "It's about being someone who can very diplomatically say what they're feeling or thinking, who really hopes to inspire and create change and I think that's a very natural fit."
Hagan knows a thing or two about being diplomatic; while she carries the tiara, she has to be aware of the responsibilities that come with it when being asked questions about her personal views.
"It does take a moment for you to take it back and remember that you are the face of an organization because I am a very outspoken person — Brooklyn, through and through for the past five years," Hagan said. She said the organization doesn't try to censor them, however. "They encourage us to be very strong, independent women, to have opinions. And it's okay if my opinion differs from the next person as long as I can relay it very eloquently and in a manner that's representative of the organization."
One topic the New York City resident didn't want to tackle, however, was the city's current mayoral race. No endorsement from Hagan at this time, she says.
"I don't think that one's for me," she said with a sly smile.
Hagan's outspokenness on the important of education is what brought her to Washington this week, as she met with lawmakers and politicos on Capitol Hill and announced, alongside Miss America Organization Chairman and CEO Sam Haskell, a new Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Scholarship for Miss America contestants.
Hagan said that keeping teachers inspired to make science and math exciting should be a key component of America's education policy.
"We really should focus on keeping our teachers inspired," said Hagan. "I think that we have so many teachers out there who maybe love their job but they've been doing it for a long time and are feeling a little less inspired than they should. … We have to make sure that we have teachers in our classrooms teaching our students that love their job."
It's a task that even the perennially gridlocked Washington should be able to solve.
"No matter what, on either side of the aisle, no one is going to say that education isn't important for the future of our country. No one's going to say that their children's education is not important to them. And no person who has a child here in D.C. is going to say, 'well, that's really not a subject I feel like dealing with right now.'"


text:
The Archibald Simpson is a Wetherspoon pub in Aberdeen, Aberdeen. Our pub offers a range of real ales, craft beers and freshly ground Lavazza coffee. Breakfast is served until noon, with our full food menu available until 11 pm.
7 Day Weather Forecast
Our weather forecast for Aberdeen in Aberdeenshire is split into two widgets. The first shows a timeline containing temperature, wind, sunrise/sunset and chance of rain, whilst the second shows the forecast for the week ahead including severe weather alerts when available.
You may also like ...
In this 'you may also like' section we attempt to answer what else can I do? Here you have a list by order of being the closest some more beaches, things to see and do, places to eat and upcoming events.


text:
Dental Implants
Free Smile Analysis
Aesthetic Dentistry
Tooth Cleaning
Help With Dental Anxiety
Family Dentistry
Our Commitment is to creating the Most Comfortable Environment for our Patients, performing impeccable dentistry as a Form of Art, and Delivering Our Best as we keep up with the changes in the Dental Field. Our Strength comes from a strong sense of Responsibility, Enthusiasm, Concern, and Care for our Patients, our Work and One Another.
Julie Young, D.D.S
Dr. Julie Young has trained with some of the world's most prominent general and cosmetic dentists, and has been a restorative, general and cosmetic dentist for over 23 years. She is an active and compassionate member of her community and is rapidly becoming one of Marin's leading dentists. She works closely with her colleagues in the dental field to provide the best possible service and the best possible choices for you. Through continuing education she is able to offer you and your family the level of care you have been looking for.
If you're looking for dentures that look great and last, look no further than Julie Young, D.D.S located in the Corte Madera, CA area. Julie Young, D.D.S. will assess your needs and fit you with durable, comfortable, natural-looking dentures - at a price you can afford.
If you have unhealthy gums, it's important to seek treatment soon. Your bleeding gums could be warning you of future tooth loss or even the potential for stroke and heart disease. Schedule a periodontal assessment with Corte Madera area gum disease dentist Dr. Julie Young today. It's one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your family.
Would you like your smile to be a bit brighter than it is right now? We can make it happen at Julie Young, D.D.S, with professional tooth whitening for brighter natural looking teeth. Dr. Julie Young's Corte Madera, CA area office can effectively lighten your stained or discolored tooth enamel. Whiter teeth not only look great, they improve your self-confidence.
New and safe sedation dentistry with Corte Madera area sedation dentist Dr. Julie Young means you can have years of dental treatments done quickly while you're lightly sedated, with little or no discomfort. If you've been putting up with discomfort, hiding your smile, or delaying scheduling dental work because you're too busy, your life is about to change. Make a sedation dentistry consultation appointment today with Dr. Young.
Julie Young, D.D.S is a trusted Corte Madera area dental implants practice providing natural-looking, comfortable tooth replacement. We make it our mission to use a gentle touch during the process.
We hold ourselves to the highest standards to replace missing teeth and provide you with natural-looking results. Our goal is to restore your confidence and your bright, healthy smile.
|8am - 12pm
|12pm - 5:30pm
|8am - 12pm
|12pm - 5:30pm
|8am - 12pm
|12pm - 5:30pm
|8am - 12pm
|12pm - 5:30pm
|8am - 12pm
|By Appt Only
1) From Route 101, take the Tamalpais Drive exit toward Paradise Drive.
2) Turn RIGHT onto Tamalpais Drive.
3) Turn LEFT onto Sanford Street.
4) Turn LEFT onto Casa Buena Drive.
The office is conveniently located 2 blocks off the freeway, across the street from the Corte Madera Library and next to Tamalpais Bank. We are in the Professional Building on the right side of the road. We are looking forward to seeing you!
This office is closed on the following holidays: New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day.
If you're one of the many people who suffer from anxiety and fear during dental appointments, sedation dentistry may be the answer. Julie Young, D.D.S. is the understanding professional you can turn to.
At Julie Young, D.D.S we know that your phobia is very real, and we may be able to help by providing a variety of options to help you relax and stay comfortable through your appointment.
A healthy mouth is critical to your overall well being. Call today for an appointment for Corte Madera sedation dentistry at (415) 924-5300 or just fill out our simple online form. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. We 're here to help!
Julie Young, D.D.S is located in Corte Madera and conveniently serves the following areas:


text:
4D Sport Utility AWD
Automatic with Geartronic I4
* Motor Trend Automobiles of the year * 2016 KBB.com 10 Best Luxury SUVs * NACTOY 2016 North American Truck/Utility of the Year * 2016 KBB.com Best Buy Awards Finalist * 2016 KBB.com Best Auto Tech Awards
* Sharp new look and style; spacious second- and third-row seating; many standard safety technology features; confident handling; available hybrid model. Source: Edmunds
* The 2016 redesigned XC90 puts Volvo at the top of the SUV game. The more assertive styling larger grille, aggressive lower air intakes and slim headlights, manage to be modern without losing the Volvo identity. A redesigned interior fuses leather, wood and even Swedish crystal glass for a cabin with a high-luxury feel, a theme further reinforced by an available Bowers & Wilkins audio system with 19 speakers. Under the hood, XC90 gets the company's new four-cylinder engine that is both supercharged and turbocharged, making 316hp. It comes matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Of course, the XC90 showcases Volvo's latest safety advances. Imminent frontal collision detection with automatic braking comes standard and now includes a feature that applies brakes when the driver attempts to turn in front of an oncoming car, such as at an intersection. The Momentum Plus package includes the LED headlights (with automatic high beams), LED running lights, digital gauge cluster display, illuminated step plates and added interior illumination. The Vision package features power-folding auto-dimming side mirrors, a surround-view parking camera system, blind-spot and rear cross-traffic alerts. Standard options include 19-inch alloy wheels, adjustable drive modes, a panoramic sunroof, hands-free power tailgate, rearview camera, rear parking sensors, keyless entry and ignition, four-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Stay up on technology with a 9in touchscreen display, navigation system, voice controls, Bluetooth connectivity, smartphone integration and an auxiliary audio input jack and an iPod/USB audio interface. Source: The Manufacturer Summary
Used 2016 VolvoXC90 T6 Inscription SUV
- Stock: L012721A
- Mileage
- 95,995 miles
- Fuel Economy
- 22.0/25.0 mpg City/Hwy
- Exterior Color
- Crystal White Pearl
- Interior Color
- Blond
- Body
- Transmission
- Automatic with Geartronic
- Drivetrain
- Engine
Volvo XC90
Highlighted Features
- Navigation system
- Lane departure
- Speed limit sign recognition
- Leather upholstery
- Automatic temperature control
- Emergency communication system
- Power moonroof
- Premium audio system
Detailed Specifications
- 1-touch down
- 1-touch up
- Air conditioning
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
- Automatic temperature control
- Driver door bin
- Driver vanity mirror
- Emergency communication system
- Front beverage holders
- Front dual zone A/C
- Illuminated entry
- Memory seat
- Navigation system
- Passenger door bin
- Passenger vanity mirror
- Power moonroof
- Power windows
- Proximity keyless entry: doors and push button start
- Rear beverage holders
- Rear door bins
- Remote keyless entry
- Speed control
- Telescoping steering wheel
- Tilt steering wheel
- Trunk/hatch auto-latch
- Alloy wheels
- Four wheel independent suspension
- Front anti-roll bar
- Power steering
- Rear anti-roll bar
- Speed-sensing steering
- 1st row LCD monitors: 2
- A/V remote
- AM/FM radio: SiriusXM
- Diversity antenna
- Premium audio system: Sensus Connect
- Primary LCD size: 9.3"
- Radio data system
- Satellite radio trial duration with new vehicle purchase (months): 6
- Steering wheel mounted audio controls
- Wireless phone connectivity: Bluetooth
- Front center armrest: w/storage
- Front seats: bucket
- Genuine wood dashboard insert
- Genuine wood door panel insert
- Heated front seats
- Leather shift knob
- Leather upholstery
- Power 4-way driver lumbar support
- Power 4-way passenger lumbar support
- Power driver seat
- Power passenger seat
- Rear seat center armrest
- Split folding rear seat
- Compressor: intercooled turbo
- Cylinder configuration: I-4
- Drive type: All-Wheel Drive
- Engine liters: 2.0
- Engine location: front
- Fuel economy city: 22mpg
- Fuel economy combined: 23mpg
- Fuel economy highway: 25mpg
- Fuel tank capacity: 18.8gal.
- Horsepower: 250hp @ 5,600RPM
- Manual-shift auto: Geartronic
- Mode select transmission
- Number of valves: 16
- Recommended fuel: Regular Unleaded
- Torque: 258 lb.-ft. @ 4,500RPM
- Transmission: 8 speed automatic
- Variable valve control
- Ground clearance (min): 236mm (9.3")
- Bumpers: body-color
- Door mirrors: body-color
- Heated door mirrors
- Power door mirrors
- Power liftgate
- Rear cargo: power liftgate
- Roof rack: rails only
- Spoiler
- Tailpipe finisher: chrome
- Turn signal indicator mirrors
- Compression ratio: 10.80 to 1
- Curb weight: 1,993kg (4,394lbs)
- Engine bore x stroke: 82.0mm x 93.2mm (3.23" x 3.67")
- Engine displacement: 2.0 L
- Engine horsepower: 250hp @ 5,600RPM
- Engine torque: 258 lb.-ft. @ 4,500RPM
- Exterior body width: 2,009mm (79.1")
- Exterior height: 1,775mm (69.9")
- Exterior length: 4,948mm (194.8")
- Front headroom: 988mm (38.9")
- Front legroom: 1,039mm (40.9")
- Front shoulder room: 1,466mm (57.7")
- GVWR: 2,630kg (5,798lbs)
- Rear headroom: 978mm (38.5")
- Rear legroom: 940mm (37.0")
- Rear shoulder room: 1,435mm (56.5")
- Towing capacity: 2,268kg (5,000lbs)
- Wheelbase: 2,985mm (117.5")
- Auto high-beam headlights
- Configurable
- Delay-off headlights
- Display: digital/analog
- Exterior parking camera rear
- Forward collision: City Safety mitigation
- Front fog lights
- Front reading lights
- Fully automatic headlights
- Headlight cleaning
- Lane departure: active
- Low tire pressure warning
- Outside temperature display
- Rain sensing wipers
- Rear fog lights
- Rear reading lights
- Rear window defroster
- Rear window wiper
- Speed limit sign recognition
- Sun blinds
- Tachometer
- Trip computer
- Variably intermittent wipers
- 4 wheel disc brakes
- ABS brakes
- Anti-whiplash front head restraints
- Brake assist
- Dual front impact airbags
- Dual front side impact airbags
- Electronic stability
- Ignition disable
- Knee airbag
- Occupant sensing airbag
- Overhead airbag
- Panic alarm
- Perimeter/approach lights
- Security system
- Tracker system
- Traction control
Dealer Notes
KBB.com Consumer Reviews
- 3.0
Significant Issues with the brakes on the XC90.
By BuyersRemorse on Monday, November 12, 2018I had to replace the front pads and rotors at 14k miles and now at 20k miles have to replace the rear pads and rotors. This is way to soon. I drove a BMW for the last 12 years and replaced the rotors a total of two times and would get at least 30-40k miles out of the pads. The XC90 weighs 6000lbs which I think has a lot to do with the break issues. Volvo clearly went cheap on the breaks. 2nd. The Catalytic Converter at 20k went which was causing the check engine light to come on. Now that my car has been in the shop for a week, the Dealer is having trouble with the Catalytic Converter replacement, I am having severe reservations about the purchase of this SUV. After doing a little research on the break problem I found several other Volvo owners that have had an identical experience relative to the breaks. All this being said I have to give credit to Volvo as cooperate has agreed to handle the repairs under warranty but what happens 14k miles from now when I'm doing this all over again??? This is a very well appointed vehicle with some pretty cool features but if they are failing with the quality of the (simple) mechanical elements, I have very low expectations for the sophisticated electrical components
- 4.0
Top best luxury SUV
By J on Thursday, December 20, 2018I bought the car February 2018, the styling and quality is superior to all German luxury SUVs. Before buying the car, I researched and drove the Q7, X5 and GL. The XC90 does not have the most power but the comfort, safety and styling is above all the vehicles I drove. I just wish that Volvo would upgrade engine to a V6/I6, I do feel the vehicle needs more power when going uphills or accelerating. Covenience package + Inscription is a must, you wont regret it.
- 5.0
Beautiful SUV
By NeverPilotAgain on Sunday, November 24, 2019My T6 version XC90 drives like my Audi A4, tremendous power from the engine unbelievable it is only a 4 cylinder....driving assist with the head up display feels like you are driving a spaceship... finally I have the car of my dreams!!!. I recently drove a Korean rental and their "drive assist" does not compare (kept trying to take me out of the freeway at every exit)...the XC90's is solid and reliable. Seats are beautifully designed...a keeper.
New Arrivals
2018 Nissan Sentra SR Sedan
- $13,591
Quick Specs
- Sedan
- Red Exterior
- 1.8L 4-Cylinder DOHC 16V Engine
2019 Audi A6 2.0T Premium Plus…
- $45,991
Quick Specs
- Sedan
- Black Exterior
- 2L 4-Cylinder TFSI Engine
2018 Audi TT RS 2.5T Coupe
- $57,991
Quick Specs
- Coupe
- Gray Exterior
- 2.5L I5 Turbocharged DOHC 20V LEV3-ULEV125 400hp Engine


text:
Skip Hire Kentmere from YourLocalSkipHire.co.uk
Welcome to YourLocalSkipHire.co.uk – the best choice for skip hire in Kentmere. We're one of the UK's leading skip hire service providers, and have helped thousands of satisfied customers find the skip they need at an affordable price.
Before you request your skip hire quote, you can confirm the size of skip that you need with our sizing guide. From small two yard skips for smaller home clearances, to the larger containers required by building projects, we'll find the skip that's right for you.
Our hassle free booking system will provide you with a free no-obligation skip hire quote quickly and easily. Just call 0330 1130 700, or fill out your postcode in the box above. We'll get your quote to you as soon as possible. It really is that easy!


text:
Make yourself attractive along with Ashley Tisdale's Boots
Every last woman will need to have a couple of good boots or shoes that fits much better to bring you to every one location across the world. Girl should be seeing that stunning as they are able to be in the globe as well as the just thing they're able to might depend on will probably be your fretting hand and also a center. Take the Boots involving Ashley Tisdale home.


text:
Take control of anti-hero Alex Mercer, who wakes up in a mysterious laboratory as a genetically mutated experiment with no memory of his past. Armed with amazing shape-shifting abilities and on the hunt to discover what created him, it's up to you to find the culprits responsible and make them pay.
Tear through a densely populated contemporary New York City moving with Parkour-style fluidity, consuming anybody that gets in the way... with the ability to assume their physical form, memories and abilities.
• Dive into deadly shape-shifting action, using Alex Mercer's amazing powers for combat, destruction and deception
• Explore the bustling open world of New York City, packed with thousands of pedestrians and hundreds of cars; a thriving representation of the world's most famous city
• Play as you want by blending in with the crowded population and covertly progressing through the story, or fully unleash Alex's powers, moving through the city as a walking slaughterhouse.


text:
Tech Bites: Meet the New Gamers, Boomer Women
Move aside, teens. A new study points to the rise of a significant gamer demographic: women, aged 50 or older. Spencer Ante reports on Digits. Photo: Wizard101.
This transcript has been automatically generated and may not be 100% accurate.
... I ... Group dad videogame makers are trying to Korea so there is a new study the came out today that renew Universum instrument when thirty thousand ... of people who play on Monday ... and what they found was that ... um the people over the age of fifty the majority of the people what became of it if you were one ... of the sixty two percent ... I'm ... if you're under fifty excuse more male ... so this is a shame because I think they are the stereotype anyway ... of of of the video game play areas of fifty year old boy in his basement ... might end of the ... mother of stairs escalating ... says the owner of Urban planning and so I guess there's like two groups of the mother and son arrived ... and even though the ... heat of the playmaking ... play so at least Artie seen any sort of games as for the tap into this market because he likes to mostly gains are still ... focused on like the the young male white as opposed to the older market yes I do think we're starting to see more of that in fact ... this is actually a phenomenon that we've seen in other types of new or video games like mobile games on Facebook ... of much of Zynga's growth in the early years was driven by older women ... who were sitting at home probably stay home moms ... of playing on billion of debt ... and the more recently in the app world ... the average actual user of a mobile social game and ... and ... on the I phone and Android is the isthe middle is one of ... the show I think a lot of these were socially oriented game the rip up the women also wake of ... a lot of the can ... the Otago online bingo I write here again are popular with women so I think ... of bodies in a game makers are starting to do more to Chicago ... yes and and you can aam ... see that's an awesome the outset the as you said that come out and tap into the CBD even apps like wheel of fortune a family feud and that that play off of traditional rice TV game shows are popular online and you would think that ... this is to tap into this this was the traffic and up and began designing good thing for videogame makers ... because they're not been unnecessarily by the traditional videogames thereby NASA's up to the cheaper yes um some people might say that job and this could extend into the market potential in that because you're attracted when it's these newer types of non console games the team again ... we become steamers ... and then maybe they they will try out from more traditional console games but so far ... that we haven't seen so far the fact is and ... that ... um the people who are gravitating towards the online social mobile games are are are certain ... meaning lets users for the ... traditional console in U K although the wee its own brand Lauren Wu yet yet Sunstone store to Cut continually come up with new games to really bring people back right right ...