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Sunday, August 2, 2015
Blueberry-almond buttermik pancakes
Summer fruit is beyond amazing right now. It's really hard to choose my favorite...nectarines, plums, figs, berries, tomatoes...it's truly the height of the best food of the year in my humble opinion.
I found myself with a ridiculous amount of blueberries the other day and decided to create a delicious blueberry pancake recipe. I included almond flour, buttermilk (love the tanginess), fresh lemon zest and some almond extract in addition to a ton of fresh berries and am pretty darn happy with the results...I hope you agree!
I like to top these with butter, a tiny bit of real maple syrup and something with a bit of tartness like yellow nectarines or raspberries. Such a treat!
Makes 12-14 pancakes
1 c. all-purpose or gluten-free flour
1 c. almond flour
1/4 t. sea salt
1 t. baking powder
1/2 t. baking soda
2 eggs - beaten
2 c. buttermilk
1/2 t. almond extract
1 t. vanilla
1 T. maple syrup
1 t. lemon zest
2 c. blueberries
butter or coconut oil for griddle
Add the flour, almond flour, sea salt, baking powder and baking soda to a medium bowl. Whisk to combine.
In a separate medium bowl add beaten eggs, buttermilk, almond extract, vanilla, maple syrup and lemon zest. Whisk until well combined.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until well combined. Gently fold in the blueberries.
Preheat a griddle over medium heat. When hot, lightly brush the griddle with butter or coconut oil. Working in batches, pour batter by 1/3 cupfuls onto the hot griddle. It should sizzle a little when you pour it on. Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side - until edges are dry and they are nicely browned. Flip and cook 2-3 minutes more.
Serve with butter, a little real maple syrup and more beautiful berries (or yellow nectarines!) of your choice.
Saturday, May 23, 2015
Black bean cakes with avocado and slaw
These little meatless wonders are a perfect vegetarian (vegan, even!) meal. The black bean cakes are packed with flavor and protein and topped with a simple tangy, crunchy slaw. Add a couple heaping spoonfuls of rich, buttery avocado and some bright, zesty lime juice + hot sauce and you've got yourself something pretty darn near perfect for dinner.
Serves 4-6 (makes 12 cakes)
1 t. olive oil
1 onion - finely chopped
2 medium cloves garlic - finely chopped
2, 15-oz cans black beans, drained
4 oz. can diced, roasted green chilis, drained
1 1/2 t. salt
1 t. ground cumin
1 t. oregano
1 t. chili powder
1 T. Cholula hot sauce
2 t. apple cider vinegar
2 t. maple syrup
1 egg - beaten
1/4 c. medium ground cornmeal
1/2 c. fine corn flour (or all-purpose flour)
olive oil for cooking bean cakes
1 small cabbage, very finely sliced
4 watermelon radishes (or regular radishes) - quartered and thinly sliced
2 t. sugar
1 t. salt
2 T. vinegar
3 green onions - whites & greens thinly sliced
1 small jalapeno - minced (optional)
2 avocados - coarsely mashed
1-2 fresh limes
Cholula hot sauce (optional)
Heat olive oil in a skillet over over medium-low heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 7 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute. Turn off heat and let cool slightly.
Place black beans in a large bowl. Coarsely smash the beans with a potato masher or fork until about half the bean are mashed. Add the sautéed onion and garlic, green chilis, salt, cumin, oregano, chili powder, Cholula, vinegar, sugar, egg, cornmeal and corn flour to the beans. Stir to combine all ingredients, making sure flour is incorporated. Let mixture rest 10 minutes.
To make the slaw, put the cabbage and radishes in a large bowl. Sprinkle with sugar, salt and vinegar and toss to combine. Let slaw sit 10 minutes. Drain off any accumulated liquid, add the green onions and jalapeño (if using) and toss again.
Heat enough olive oil to coat a heavy bottom skillet over medium heat. Scoop a 1/4 c. of the black bean mixture into your hand and gently form into a small patty (your mixture will be very soft), about 2 1/2 to 3 inches in diameter. Make sure your cakes are not too thin so they stay together when cooking & flipping. Place in the hot skillet and repeat. You will need to work in batches.
Cook each black bean cake about 4 minutes on each side until browned and crispy. You may want drizzle a little more oil into the pan after you flip them so they brown nicely on both sides. Remove and place on a baking rack to retain crispiness while cooking the rest. These are extra tasty when served right out of the skillet while hot & crispy!
To serve, top black bean cakes with a heaping spoonful of avocado and a mound of slaw. Generously squeeze fresh lime juice over everything and drizzle with a little Cholula, if desired.
Saturday, April 11, 2015
Smoked trout toast with pickled onions
This smoked trout toast recipe is the perfect brunch food (I wanted to get this posted before Easter, but people brunch all the time, right?). It's reminiscent of the whole lox-n-bagels spread, but with some tasty twists & turns (smoked trout is so mild & yummy, you'll love it). I actually really like it for a simple dinner with a green salad, and it's a great appetizer when you are entertaining (it's really pretty...bound to impress).
Don't let the idea of making pickled onions intimidate you - it takes 5 minutes and is foolproof. They're beautiful & great to use in tons of ways - on burgers, in tacos, even in a fancy grilled cheese...yum!
I suggest using a baguette that is on the lighter, airier side vs. something ultra-dense for this recipe, or it can get a little difficult to sink your teeth into. You could also do all the same toppings on toasted bagels and be very, very happy.
Serves 12
pickled onions:
1 red onion - thinly sliced
1/2 c. apple cider vinegar
1 T. sugar
1 t. kosher salt
1 light & airy French baguette (not a super dense one)
softened butter
8 oz. cream cheese
1 Persian cucumber - thinly sliced
8 oz, smoked trout - torn into approx. 1/2 inch size pieces
2 T. capers
1 hard boiled egg - finely chopped (I use my mini food processor to make it super easy!)
1 T. chopped, fresh dill
zest and juice of 1 lemon
fresh ground pepper
In a small saucepan, combine red onion, apple cider vinegar, sugar and salt. Bring to a boil and cook one minute, stirring. Turn off heat and let cool & pickle for one hour, stirring occasionally. Drain off liquid.
Preheat oven broiler. Cut baguette in half crosswise into 2 pieces. Then slice each piece in half lengthwise, so you have 4 long pieces. Butter each cut side. Place bread on rimmed baking sheet, buttered side up. Set the baking sheet on a rack set a third of the way from the top of the oven and broil 3-4 minutes or until lightly toasted (watch carefully!). Remove from oven.
Spread the toasted baguettes evenly with cream cheese. Then top with sliced cucumbers, trout, capers, hard boiled egg, chopped dill, lemon zest, lemon juice and a few grinds of fresh ground pepper. Top with pickled onions (you won't use them all - save the rest for another use!). Then slice each baguette quarter into 3 individual size pieces for serving. Place on a serving tray and voila!
Thursday, April 2, 2015
Strawberry-mint sparkler
The other day my talented, beautiful and amazing fellow blogger friend, Piper Chuthakeio (of the very stylish mommy/fashion/lifestyle blog Coconut & Bean) and I decided that we needed to get together for a little blog love-fest. And what better way to collaborate than over a tasty, sparkly spring cocktail photo session, shot by our other talented, beautiful & amazing friend, Ashley Forchelli, of Ashley Forchelli Photography (definitely check out her work!).
We all think this super seasonal strawberry-mint simple syrup concoction with some bubbly Prosecco and a bit of extra oomph from a little ice-cold vodka is the perfect alternative to regular mimosas for your Easter brunch. It's also a great way to liven up a boring Tuesday morning like we did.
Here are a couple cute behind-the-scenes pics of me and Piper prepping the berries and having fun in the kitchen. Click on Piper's blog, Coconut & Bean for a great step-by-step photo guide of the recipe.
|Berry slicing action.
|Cheers, my dears!
|A stylish way to keep this yumminess chilled...
Strawberry-mint simple syrup:
2 c. quartered strawberries
4 whole sprigs mint
3/4 c. sugar
3/4 c. water
1/3 c. fresh lime juice
1 c. ice-cold vodka
1 very chilled bottle of dry Prosecco or brut sparkling wine/champagne
fresh mint leaves
thinly sliced limes
Combine the strawberries, mint sprigs, sugar and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil and then lower heat to a simmer. After 5 minutes, coarsely mash the berries in the pot with a potato masher to release their juices. Simmer 5 more minutes.
Turn off heat and allow to cool to room temperature. Strain liquid into a bowl, pressing berries with a spatula against the strainer to get all their strawberry deliciousness out. Chill syrup in refrigerator (can be made up to a 5 days in advance - store in refrigerator).
When ready to serve, combine the fresh lime juice, cold vodka, Prosecco or sparkling wine and 1 cup of strawberry-mint simple syrup in a pitcher or bottle that you can keep on ice (you may have a little syrup left over - drizzle it on ice cream or pancakes!).
Pour into glasses and garnish with mint leaves and lime slices, if desired. Keep chilled in the refrigerator or in an ice bucket & enjoy!
Saturday, March 28, 2015
Triple-layer lemon cheesecake
This is a recipe I've been super excited to share and have been waiting for just the right moment. Well, the time has finally arrived, as it was my husband's birthday recently. It is my family's ultimate, hands-down favorite and most-requested birthday/special occasion dessert...the Famous Maggiore Triple Layer Lemon Cheesecake. I inherited this recipe from my mom. I'm not sure where she originally found it, but a huge thank you to the initial source, wherever you are!
If you've never made a cheesecake, don't be daunted. It's really quite easy and straightforward. Over the years of making this particular recipe and scores of other cheesecakes for food styling jobs, I've amassed a few basic tips that make baking foolproof and prevent cracking:
Cheesecake baking tips:
1 - Always use room temperature ingredients - cream cheese, eggs, and in this case, sour cream.
2 - Mix your ingredients gently, on the lowest mixer setting, until just combined, so as not to whip air into it, which can cause cracking.
3 - Always place a source of moisture in your oven under the cheesecake while baking...I heat up a kettle of boiling water and the pour it into a 9 x 13 baking dish set on the lowest rack of my oven right before I put the cake in. This keeps it nice and steamy in there!
4 - Do not over bake your cheesecake. Follow the recommended baking time. The center of your cheesecake will be quite jiggly & wobbly while still hot, but that is ok as it will firm up as it cools.
5 - When the recommended baking time has expired, turn off the heat and prop open the oven door (I use a couple folded hot pads). Cool for at least an hour (or completely) this way before removing and cooling the rest of the way.
serves 12-16
2 1/4 c. graham cracker crumbs
1/4 c. sugar
6 T. melted butter
cream cheese layer:
3, 8 oz. cream cheese, room temperature
1 1/2 c. sugar
3 eggs, room temperature
3 T. lemon juice
zest of one lemon
1 t. vanilla
sour cream layer:
1 pint sour cream, room temperature
3 T. sugar
1 t. vanilla
1/2 c. sugar
1T. + 1 t. cornstarch
1/2 c. water
2 T. lemon juice
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. On the lowest rack of oven, place a 9 x 13 baking pan of hot, steaming water - this will keep the oven moist while baking and help prevent cracking.
Combine graham crumbs, sugar & melted butter & stir to combine. Press crumbs into bottom and up the sides of a 10" spring form pan. Bake crust for 5 minutes.
In the bowl of a standing mixer, mix cream cheese and sugar and beat on low with the paddle attachment until just combined and there are no lumps. Add eggs one at a time, again, using a low setting. You don't want to whip air into the mixture so don't use a high setting on your mixer! Add zest, lemon juice and vanilla and mix until smooth and combined. Pour into crust and bake 35 minutes.
Mix sour cream, sugar & vanilla together in a bowl. Gently pour sour cream later over cream cheese layer and spread evenly. Bake another 15 minutes.
Turn off oven but do not remove cheesecake. Prop the oven door open and allow the cake to sit in the slowly cooling oven for at least an hour. Remove and cool to room temperature.
To make the glaze, add 1/2 c. sugar to a small saucepan. Mix cornstarch into water and add to the sugar in the pan. Add lemon juice. Heat until boiling and cook for 2-3 minutes, until thickened and clear. Cool. Spread evenly over room temperature or cooled cheesecake. Cool in refrigerator at least 4 hours or overnight.
Saturday, March 14, 2015
Pork green chili
The thing that makes this pork green chili so darn special is the roasting of your own chilies. This may sound hard or daunting, but it is not. It couldn't be easier and the results will make you very, very happy. (You can use the same method below to roast bell peppers - yum.)
I used Anaheim chilies only because they are mild and I still have spice-sensitive eaters in my house (still?!?!) but they were flavorful and earthy and robust and I loved them. If you want to spice it up, you can use the Anaheims in any combination with the famed New Mexico "Hatch" green chilies or toss in a couple roasted jalapenos...feel free to play around with it!
Serves 6
3 pounds pork shoulder roast (aka butt roast - it's not from the behind!) - cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces
kosher salt & fresh ground pepper
3 t. grapeseed or canola oil, divided
1 medium onion - chopped
4 cloves garlic - chopped
4 c. chicken broth
1 1/2 c. tomatillo salsa
6 Anaheim chilies
3 small potatoes - peeled and diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
Greek yogurt or sour cream
fresh cilantro - chopped
Season pork with a generous amount of kosher salt and fresh ground pepper. Heat 1 t. of the oil in a large, heavy bottom pot over medium-high heat. Working in two batches, sear pork until browned on all sides - about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove from pot and set aside.
Add the remaining oil and turn heat to medium low. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 7-9 minutes. The browned bits in the pot from the pork should start to loosen as the onion cooks. Add the garlic and cook 1 minute. Return the pork to the pot and add chicken broth and tomatillo salsa. Bring to a boil and then lower heat to a vigorous simmer.You will simmer the pork, uncovered, for about one and a half hours, stirring occasionally.
As the pork simmers, prepare your chilies: Preheat the broiler, place Anaheim chilies on a rimmed baking sheet and place under the broiler. Roast chilies, flipping once, until skins are completely charred on both sides - about 10-15 minutes total. Remove from oven and place in a plastic or paper bag to stream for 10 minutes. Remove from bag and the skins should just slip right off. Remove the stems and seeds and chop. Add them to the pot with the pork.
After the first one and and a half hours add the potato. Continue to simmer for another 20 minutes, until potatoes are cooked though, the pork is very tender and the liquid has reduced and thickened to a stew-y consistency.
Serve topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt or our cream and fresh, chopped cilantro.
Saturday, February 28, 2015
Smoky lentils with sausage & greens
I love lentils....they have endless delicious possibilities & are a great protein base for tons of different add-in's & spices. I like 'em cold and mixed in a salad, hot and spicy and mushy with super flavorful Indian flavors, or as in this recipe, more hearty & stewed, mixed with smoky sausage, healthy collard greens and roasted bell peppers.
For this preparation I like to use black beluga lentils (pictured) or French green lentils. They really retain their shape and have a firmer texture when cooked than some of the other varieties.
I also recommend sprinkling on some Aleppo pepper when serving. If you are unfamiliar with this spice, it's high time you picked yourself up some :). It comes from a Turkish chili that has a moderate amount of spice, but also kind of an underlying raisin-y sweetness with a hint of salty tangy-ness (wow, that's a lot of adjectives!). I sprinkle it on pretty much everything - eggs, pasta, pizza, any protein...click HERE to order it on Amazon...you will love.
Serves 6
1 t. olive oil
1/2 large onion - chopped
1 large carrot - diced
1 large celery - diced
2 medium cloves garlic - minced
15-oz can fire-roasted tomatoes - drained
2 1/2 c. chicken or veggie broth
1 c. black beluga lentils, or French green lentils
1 t. salt
fresh ground pepper
1 t. smoked mild paprika
1 t. olive oil
12 ounces pre-cooked smoked sausages
1 bunch collard greens
1/2 c. chopped roasted bell peppers
garnishes (optional):
crumbled sheep's milk Feta
Aleppo pepper
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the onion, carrot & celery and cook 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the garlic and cook 1 minute more.
Add the tomatoes and broth and bring to a boil. Add the lentils & return to a boil, then lower heat to a simmer and cook 15-20 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
While the lentils are simmering, you can prepare your sausage & collard greens. Pull the collard leaves off of their though stems and roughly chop.
Heat olive oil in a heavy bottomed skillet over medium high heat. Add sausages and cook, turning often until plump, warmed through, and slightly charred - about 5 minutes. Remove from pan. While pan is still hot, add the collard greens and sauté 4-5 minutes, stirring often, until they appear bright green and wilted. Season with salt & pepper.
Slice sausages into bite sized pieces. Add sausages, collard greens and roasted bell peppers to the lentils and stir to combine. Add more salt & pepper if necessary. Serve in bowls topped with crumbled Feta and finish with a sprinkle with Aleppo pepper.
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THE American Dream With John Hofmeister
Topic: The American Dream Under Donald J. Trump Live: Wednesday, October 11, 2017, 10:15 to 11:45 am Toronto time Hosts: Lon Appleby and Bandini Sethi, Durham College, Oshawa, Canada Guest: John Hofmeister, Former President, Shell Oil USA, Houston, Texas Students: Durham College, Oshawa, Canada . . Budapest Business School, Budapest, Hungary Resources: How Trump Is Ending the American Era . . Will Donald Trump Destroy the
Presidency? . . 1,516 mass shootings in 1,735 days . .
Global Class Forum
"The age of discovery has hardly begun."
Theodore Zeldin, An Intimate History of Humanity
Theodore Zeldin, An Intimate History of Humanity

subset: commoncrawl


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Local voted to Empire Electric Board
Robert Barry was elected to represent District Two on the Empire Electric Board of Directors at the annual meeting of the electric cooperative on June 20. It is the first time a local resident has served on the board in more than a decade.
Barry was elected with 51 percent of the votes. He received 1,115 votes to defeat Carolyn Dunmire by 63 votes. She received 1,052.
Barry will represent District Two, which includes the Utah portions of the Empire Electric service area, in addition to the Dove Creek area.
Barry was raised on the Barry Farm in Eastland and has spent his life in San Juan County. He has been involved in Soil Conservation efforts for more than 30 years, including leadership roles in local, state, and national organizations.
In other races, two incumbents were re-elected to the board, including Kent Lindsay and David Sitton.
Empire Electric is an electric services coop that provides electrical service to Monticello and areas east of Monticello, in addition to southwest Colorado.
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Climate performance: Canada versus United States
North America's 7% of the Global Population accounted for 47% of the global Climate Contributions (climate debt) in ClimatePositions 2010. Canada was the 8th worst performing country out of 145 and United States was the 7th. Most indicators on Canada and United States follow the same trends over time, some with slightly different levels, however.
Trinidad and Tobago uses the planet as CO2 dump
The islands Trinidad and Tobago close to Venezuela in South America gives a damn in global warming. The diagram shows the country's CO2 Emissions (carbon dioxide) per decade compared to the global average. In 1990-1999 emissions were on average 17.4 tons of CO2 and in 2011 the figure was 42.4 tons. In ClimatePositions 2010 Trinidad and T. was the 5th worst performing country in the world with a Contribution (climate debt) of $6,805 per capita.
Guatemala is close to being Contribution Free
Guatemala was the 82nd worst performing country out of 145 full data countries in ClimatePositions 2010. The national Contribution (climate debt) was $4 per capita, but in the latest calculation this amount is cut in half thanks to decreasing CO2 Emissions (carbon dioxide) in 2011 (see the front diagram). In a few months Guatemala may be Contribution Free.
Is Singapore a climate change scoundrel?
The island of Singapore was the 2nd worst performing country in ClimatePositions 2010 with a contribution (climate debt) of $9,924 per capita and there are no signs of improvement since. In the updated calculation the amount has increased to $12,364. The diagram shows the small hybrid regime's outrageous annual CO2 Emissions (the green bars show the Contribution Free Level). Note that a large proportion of the emissions is due to marine bunkers.
Questions and answers (1-5)
Question 1: Are the contributions in ClimatePositions a valuation of the losses of the planet's natural heritage?
No, the planet's nature (biodiversity) is miraculous and priceless. ClimatePositions is a proposal to a fair financial breakdown of the unavoidable additional expenses towards sustainability and climate change actions. The level of Contributions worldwide can be changed with a single entry in the spreadsheet.
Australia perform worst of democratic countries
Australia was the 6th worst performing country in the world in ClimatePositions 2010 with a Climate Contribution of $4,387 per capita. In the latest calculation it had increased to $5,081. The total national Contribution (climate debt) is now 109 billion US$. Since no country in top 5 is Full Democracies, Australia is the worst performing democratic country. It can be assumed that the majority of the Australian voters are pleased with this destructive approach to the planet.
Brazil and the world's rainforests
Brazil was the 63rd worst performing country in ClimatePositions 2010 with a total Climate Contribution (climate debt) of 12.4 billion US$. In the latest calculation the debt has increased to 15.3 billion US$. Between 1990 and 2010 Brazil cut down the total forest cover (mainly rainforest) from 69.0% to 62.4%.
Obama hoping for change
United States is not only notorious for illegal surveillance, waterboarding, illegal wars and imprisonments without trial – the country is also primarily responsible for climate change. While the oceans are rising Barak Obama is hoping for change (see the Sea Level rise in the diagram below).
54 countries with incomplete data
199 countries are included in ClimatePositions (Excel) but 54 countries have incomplete data (0.5% of the Global Population). The front image shows the 20 largest CO2 Emitters (carbon dioxide) per capita in 2011 among the 54 countries. Without full data it is not possible to calculate the national Climate Contribution (climate debt). See the country list below with the missing data mentioned in brackets. Notes that the national Contributions can be estimated by using indicator assumptions – see an example with Bahrain in the bottom.
About calculation of national climate contributions
The calculations in ClimatePositions are complex and yet the same for all countries. The progressive national indicator updates since 2000 ensure that the countries multifaceted performances are reflected directly in the Climate Contributions (climate debt). The front image shows the main calculation spreadsheet (Excel) in ClimatePositions. All updated indicator values are entered the spreadsheet and by copying a country from the country list (with all the numerical values) and insert in the country box (cell A30) – all calculations are done automatically and the national Contribution per capita appears (cell B20).
South Korea is going backwards in climate performance
South Korea was the 15th worst performing country out of 145 in ClimatePositions 2010 with a Climate Contribution (climate debt) of $1,904 per capita. As shown in the front diagram the South Korean annual CO2 Emissions (carbon dioxide) have continued to increase in 2011 (12.5 tons per capita) and today the Contribution is $2,297 per capita. The updated calculations for all 145 countries are available in the submenu "Calculations (Excel)".
About this website
The resources behind climatepositions.com are independent of economic, political and national interests. The website's aim is to identify national climate change positions worldwide and thus expose incompetence, hypocrisy and cynicism – and uplifting achievements.
European Union perform poorly
The map (from Wikipedia) shows the very different countries in 'European Union' (EU). As a whole EU perform poorly on the climate challenge and only Romania was Contribution Free in ClimatePositions 2010. Both Netherlands and Belgium are among the top 10 worst performing countries in the world. Se the EU rank at the end and the global ranking in the menu "Contributions/Per Capita US$ Rank").
India keeps the balance between growth and CO2 emissions
India is the 4th largest CO2 Emitter in the world (in 2006-2010) but Contribution Free due to a balanced increase in economic growth and CO2 Emissions per capita. The front diagram show India's annual GDP(ppp-$) in comparison with China and the global average (the blue dots). Subject to modifications in the data source. Economic growths in these two countries are causing an increasing proportion of the global CO2 Emissions (28.3% in 2006-2010) and thus climate change.
63 countries are Contribution Free in ClimatePositions
63 of 145 countries with full data are Contribution Free in ClimatePositions 2010. See the list below. The diagram above show these countries' total share of the global: 1) Population (41.9%), 2) GDP(ppp-$) (10.4%), 3) CO2 Emission (8.4%) and 4) Contribution (0.0%). The total global Climate Contribution (climate debt) was 2,834 billion US$ in 2010 but the world's most powerful leaders defend their national economic privileges with immature persistence!


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How to Make My Qt50 Yamaha Moped Go Fasterby Sam Surgalski
Mopeds are an efficient way to get around town, travel to work or ride on the college campus. Mopeds with 50ccs have top speeds of about 30 miles an hour. Although this isn't a problem for most, this speed can make things difficult. If there's a highway on your way to work, for example, or if you have to travel more than 5 miles to your destination, you may want to think about upgrading your moped. With a few modifications, you can make your 30-mile-per-hour moped do 40, or better, depending on the upgrades you make.
Step 1
Remove the air intake located on your carburetor. It will be a plastic or metal box. Removing this will not harm your engine in any way and could increase your acceleration and top speed by 2 to 3 miles per hour.
Step 2
Take the spark plug out of your engine and check its spark by running your engine with the plug out. If you can visibly see little "lightning bolts" shooting out of the plug, it is working fine. If you can't see anything, it may be time to purchase a new spark plug.
Step 3
Consider purchasing a big bore kit online. Specially made for mopeds, these kids replace your stock carburetor and piston with bigger ones. An upgrade like this costs around $300, but you can expect at least 10 additional miles per hour in top speed.
Step 4
Clean out the muffler and exhaust port on your engine. A plugged-up port can make a moped run slow, as it requires more energy for the engine to work. This can be done by taking a wire brush to the inside of the muffler "can" and port where the muffler connects into the engine.
Step 5
Thoroughly clean your carburetor. Take it off the engine and remove the insides of the carb, making sure to write down where every screw and bolt go. Then soak the bare-bones carburetor in carburetor cleaning fluid overnight. Then take an air compressor and shoot air through the entire carburetor, making sure to especially work on the tiny gas jets that can easily clog.
If your moped is old, consider replacing the engine's belt. The older a moped gets, the more the rubber on that belt can corrode, causing a loss of power and acceleration. These belts can be purchased from your moped manufacturer's website or on 1977mopeds.com.
- If you are uncomfortable working with your moped, consider going to a bike mechanic for help. They know exactly what to work on to get your moped running faster.
Items you will need
- Screwdriver
- Wrench
- Big bore kit (optional)
- Carburetor cleaner
- Air compressor
- Spark plug
- Wire brush
- moped image by fuxart from Fotolia.com


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Here's a short video that Yahoo developer network made about the new SlideShare app.
(blog post here).
The cool thing for me about the app was that the first version was made with no management input at all! A couple of developers just decided that slideshare needed a mobile app, so they showed up at Yahoo hack day and built it (and won first prize!).


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Questions cause us to think. Sometimes they cause us to evaluate our lives. In our fast-paced society we don't seem to make enough time for either of those pastimes. We wonder who has time for thinking and evaluating when our days are an attempt to play catch up only to feel like we are falling farther behind.
Yet, as you round the corner and anticipate the New Year, here are some questions that may prepare you for what's coming.
Question # 1: Did I have a proper emphasis on my family this past year? It is one of the rare ironies of the world, in which we live, that we have routine performance evaluations at work, but rarely at home. We will all face retirement one day, but our family we will likely have with us as long as we live. So maybe it's time for a "family evaluation." How are you doing as a Dad? As a Mom? Are you properly fulfilling your role as a husband or wife? Before you enter the New Year evaluate your performance for the past one.
Question # 2: Did I have a proper emphasis on my relationship with God this past year? As a pastor you know I'm going to bring that one up. Yet, this is the relationship we often forget when things are going well, and attempt to lean on when we are experiencing a crisis. And like every other relationship its strength is dependent upon the quality of time we spend together with God on a regular basis. Through prayer and reading the Bible we daily grow in our relationship with Him. Unfortunately, when we only run to God in crisis we will not have much confidence in that relationship. When we are attempting to know His heart during the non-crisis times, it better prepares us for the crisis times. Our two relationships that are most important are often the two that are the most neglected. Let's make a commitment to make this New Year different. It's a commitment that may change your life.


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Today's "Reading that Resonates" (or maybe I should rename these Relationship Readings?) is from page 30 of the "Hold Me Tight: Seven Conversations for a Lifetime of Love" by Sue Johnson.
"Underneath all the distress, partners are asking each other: Can I count on you, depend on you? Are you there for me? Will you respond to me when I need, when I call? Do I matter to you? Am I valued and accepted by you? Do you need me, rely on me? The anger, the criticism, the demands, are really cries to their lovers, calls to stir their hearts, to draw their mates back in emotionally and reestablish a sense of safe connection." ~ Dr. Sue Johnson
I went back to look this up again today because:
- I remember it resonating with me the first time I read it. I had an "a ha" moment about why people fight, argue, and get defensive – myself included. It just made sense.
- It was a call to always look below the surface and be aware of the attachment needs of my closest connections.
- It connects beautifully with the four characteristics of attachment bonds I was reading about yesterday.
- Even though the book talks specifically about romantic partners, my subsequent investigation into attachment figures verified that teachers can fill the role of attachment figures for students. In that context, it spoke to disruptive behavior coming from students and made me wonder if some of that might be "attachment" related protest.
Does this quote speak to you? Why or why not? I'd love to hear your comments.


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Red Bull announced Friday the launch of a League of Legends team that will play for a spot in the European Challenger Series.
The team — Park "Thal" Kwon-hyuk, Moojin "MooJin" Kim, Felix "MagicFelix" Boström, Tarik "Sedrion" Holz and Raymond "kaSing" Tsang — will be known as the Red Bulls. KaSing is the most well known player, as he was in the European League Championship Series with Vitality in 2016.
To this point, Red Bull has mainly sponsored individual players across various esports titles. Red Bull sponsors William "Leffen" Hjelte in Super Smash Bros and Darryl "Snake Eyez" Lewis in Street Fighter. Red Bull has sponsored Team SoloMid League of Legends player Søren "Bjergsen" Bjerg, but he's no longer listed among Red Bull-sponsored athletes (though you can still view his athlete profile on the website). Sponsoring an athlete in the same game a company owns a team — even if they're in different regions — could be a conflict of interest. Slingshot has reached out to Red Bull and Bjergsen's team, Team SoloMid, for comment.
Red Bull's first sponsored League of Legends player was Origen owner Enrique "xPeke" Cedeno. There's no explicit mention of him as a Red Bull athlete on the website, but he's draped in Red Bull gear in photos of a Dec. 16 interview. If the Red Bulls were to qualify for the European Challenger Series, Red Bull's sponsorship of xPeke would be a direct conflict of interest because Origen, which was relegated in the most recent split, would also be in the same league.
Red Bull also hosts events in esports. It hosted a Hearthstone tournament last year and will run a relatively large fighting games event, Red Bull Kumite, next weekend. It also runs an esports news vertical, which could present another conflict of interest. It is unclear how the new League of Legends would affect coverage on the news site, if at all.
Cover photo courtesy of Red Bull


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Zeeways Adserver Multiple Vulnerabilities
Please view the original file here. Multiple vulnerabilities within the Zeeways Adserver were found. >> SQL Injection Multiple scripts with multiple parameters are affected from this vulnerability. Example #1: index.php?section=redir&affid=0&kid=0&zid=[SQL Injection] Example #2: Visit the "register" page index.php?section=user&action=register and enter your SQLi string into the email field. Fill out the other fields with some normal […]... Read More


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From Java's blog:
Are you a blogger over 40? Yeah, welcome to the club!
Please join in the fun and get to know your fellow bloggers!!
Every week Java selects one blog via Random.org to be showcased and…………….
WooHoo!!! My blog was chosen!!!!
There are no rules to the weekend, we're simply hoping to devote a good amount of time to reading, and perhaps meeting some of our reading challenges and goals for 2010. We thought it'd be fun if we cheered each other on a bit. If you think you can join in, grab the button and sign on to Mr. Linky. If you don't have a blog, use the comments!
During the weekend, come back and link any Thankfully Reading Weekend posts to the Mr. Linky we'll put up here on Friday, November 26. Feel free to link as many posts as you'd like. On Sunday will put up another Mr. Linky for your wrap-up post.
We'll also be checking in on Twitter using hashtag #thankfulreading. Join in for the weekend or for only a single day. No rules, no pressure!
This year, we will be doing some fun Thankfully Reading mini-challenges over the weekend. Be sure to check back Thanksgiving weekend for more details!
I hope to put a small dent into my pile, but it never seems to fail, every time I sign up, real life interferes. So we shall see how much I get accomplished. I will be on the computer when I need a short break, so if you don't hear from me, you know what I am doing!! Good Luck for all those that are participating, and for those who want to join in, here is all the info:
I will post over the weekend to let you know if I make any progress.
I am sure you feel the same way, but I am still truly amazed at the how many nice people I have met this past year and the friendships that have formed. For those new followers, a little history. Last year around this time I stumbled onto a book blog, never knowing this world existed, and wanting to participate because it looked like so much fun with the challenges, memes, and even the sounds of friendship from the comments I would read. I got the courage to email a blogger to ask how do I start. Poor Vicki from Reading At The Beach, she was the lucky one lol. But she told me "don't be afraid to ask questions of any book bloggers, because book bloggers were the nicest bloggers in bloggyland". And how right she was. To this day, she still answers my questions.
Well, history has repeated itself. Not too long ago I received the sweetest note from Joann at Joann's Best. Her email reminded me of the one I had sent Vicki. Yesterday morning I checked my email and this was waiting for me with these words "I made this just for you! Its an award for your blog! Thanks for everything."
I can't believe she took the time to do this for me!!! Isn't it beautiful!!! All because I answered some questions. Not only are book bloggers the nicest, they have the biggest hearts!!! Thank you so much Joann!!!! You don't know how much this means to me!!! And if you haven't been by Joann's place, please stop by, say hi, introduce yourself and welcome her into the community, the community as Vicki said, "the nicest there is".
14 Responses to "Friday Meme, Weekend Challenge and An Amazing Award"
Have fun reading this weekend. We have company and will probably be watching football today. Congratulations on your award!
Wow! Think I need a cup of tea to catch up with all your news!
Congrats on being chosen blog over at Java's blog Never growing old.
Congrats on your award. You deserve it!
For the rest of today I plan to get offline(have been here way too long today with a bit of shopping), do some reading, look after my youngest who has a nasty virus similiar to croup, some real food shopping later, and try to warm up (we are expecting snow and it is cold)
enjoy ur weekend!
Yay! I'm so glad you're joining in the fun of Thankfully Reading. And I so happy you signed up for What's in a Name! Hope you like the categories.
Congratulations on being featured on the Never Growing Old blog hop!
I am a new follower of yours ~ please feel free to stop by and follow back when you get a chance.
Have a great day.
Congrats on another well deserved award!
I am planning to participate in the Thankfully Reading Weekend too.
Being in the UK I didn't celebrate Thanksgiving but I am pleased to see you had a good time. I love your new button that Java made, it must have been exciting to find you had been selected! Your blog is truly beautiful, the colours are definately my kind. If you have time please pop over and see me at my blog.
I look forward to getting to know you better
Congrats on your award from the Over 40 hop! You deserve it. Thanks for the link for the Thankfully Reading Weekend. I am going to link up to that too. Have a great weekend.
Blog Hopping?
I love fellow bookworms and am your latest follower. Congrats on the recent accolades too….looking through this blog I can see you deserved them well done.
Totally deserving, Cheryl! And good luck on your readathon this weekend. Hopefully you can put a dent in your TBR stack….
Taking a little break from reading. Gotta go, and get my nose back in the book.
So how was your turkey day? How's was great. Good food & good company. We went by my little bro's house as usual. I took a few pics there on my facebook if you wanna see. I stopped by your friend that gave you the awesome award. Too cool there sis! CONGRATS! ANDDDDDD I VOTED YESTERDAY AND TODAY! WOO HOO – I REMEMBERED! AREN'T YA PROUD OF ME? ROFL COME ON PEOPLE VOTE FOR MY BUDDY HERE – RIGHT COLUMN BLACK LIPS! hehehehe
congrats! Busy day for me today. I cleaned the house, started the laundry, trimmed the tree, baked cookies. Good thing I didn't have to work!! & I finished a book. How are you doing with your Thankfully reading?
Okay Dave and I both voted today – talk to ya tomorrow! Goodnight…. hugs, Dolly
I have an award for you here: http://diaryofadomesticgoddess.wordpress.com/2010/11/27/versatile-blogger-award/


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I am not really a good cook but of late my cooking skills have improved tremendously. Have been experimenting with different ingredients and new dishes than what we are normally used to. My wife and I have been competing with each other trying to come up with tasty dishes. However, she didn't know that I had a secret weapon.
I have been using recipes from the CookingSpot.com recipe website. Launched in October of 2005, this online culinary portal has thousands of free and searchable recipes from all over the globe on it's website.
Why buy those expensive cook books when the recipe of all the tastiest dishes in the World are just a click away. For example, check out this great Vegetarian Lasagna recipe. It was submitted by another Adam (not me).


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- Best Home Security Systems in 2020
- Best Home Security Systems for 2020 in the USA:
- In Depth Home Security System Reviews by Category:
- What are the best home security systems?
- Vivint
- Link Interactive
- Frontpoint
- SimpliSafe
- The Best Home Security Systems Compared
- Scout
- Brinks Home Security
- What is a home security system?
- The best DIY home security systems of 2020
- Armorax
- Types of DIY Security Systems
- 7 Best DIY Home Security Available On Amazon
- Best Home Security System Companies
- Protect America
- Streamlining Security and Home Automation
- The Best Home Security Systems of 2020
- Nest Secure
- Best Home Security Systems of 2020
- The Best Smart Home Security Systems for 2020
- Best home security system options
- How to choose a home security company?
- Basic features to look for in a security system
Best Home Security Systems in 2020
Our Top Pick
Customized wireless alarm systems and automation solutions that fit your lifestyle.
Best All Around
A state-of-the-art system and advanced home automation features.
Best Home automation
The oldest—and possibly the most trusted—home security provider in the U.S.
Last Updated on
Best Home Security Systems for 2020 in the USA:
In Depth Home Security System Reviews by Category:
What are the best home security systems?
Just a couple decades ago, the home security industry was dominated by a few big names offering expensive, rigid plans with little flexibility and unfriendly, long-term contracts.
Systems were limited to a couple wired motion sensors connected to a keypad control panel and run through a landline. Nowadays, this has all changed.
While some vestiges of the old industry remain, today's homeowners are presented with a lot more options. Wireless technology and home automation features have beefed up the strength of home security, while granting customers unprecedented control and customizability over their equipment.
At the same time, newer companies like SimpliSafe and Scout have introduced new, flexible payment plans that allow you to pay month-to-month, rather than forcing you to commit to a long-term agreement with harsh cancellation penalties.
With so many home security options these days, it can be hard to choose the right one, that's why we're presenting this list of 2019's best rated home security systems to ease the selection process. Along with summaries of the system's features and pricing options, we talk about some of the advantages and disadvantages of each so you can decide which best suits your needs.
Through its twenty-one years in the home security industry, Vivint Smart Home has grown to become one of the top providers in the U.S.
and Canada, supplying service to over a million homeowners. Concurrently, the company has also earned a name as a trailblazer with its advanced equipment and home automation features, finding a spot on Fast Company's World's 50 Most Innovative Companies list in 2017.
Vivint supplies some of the most state-of-the-art systems in the industry, although it's overall rating is marred by inadequate customer service and lengthy lock-in contracts.
Vivint shines through its proprietary equipment, which stands out in its sleekness and functionality compared to that of its competitors. The system's operating hub is the Sky Control, a 7-inch color touchscreen device from which you activate and deactivate your system, lock and unlock doors, view video feeds, adjust smart home devices, and much more.
Vivint's other devices such as sensors and outdoor and doorbell cameras are equally high-end and compatible with 3rd party smart home devices.
The system uses a cellular connection, which protects against burglar wire cutting, but may be an issue in rural areas where the cellular signal is weak.
However, the quality equipment comes at a cost: you have the choice of buying all the equipment upfront and paying month-to-month for a price of around $2000 or signing a 42-60 month contract (the cheapest of which is $39.99 a month) and leasing the equipment.
None of the plans offer a money-back guarantee beyond three days, and the cancellation fee is a full 100%, so customers must be positive they want to go with Vivint or suffer expensive consequences.
Link Interactive
A veteran in the industry with 60 years in the home security business, Link Interactive has garnered a great reputation with customers evidenced by its A+ rating on BBB and favorable reviews on sites such as Yelp.
The chief positives Link Interactive brings to the table are the wealth of security options offered for different homeowner needs and flexible price points. You can choose which equipment you need and select between three plans of ascending cost. The flexibility extends to the contracts, as well: customers have the option of selecting between 1,2, and 3-year contracts, or having no contract at all.
Furthermore, Link Interactive offers a 30-day money back guarantee with no questions asked.
Let's talk about the equipment: Link Interactive is unique in that it doesn't force customers to select between pre-set packages (although you can choose one, if you like), instead allowing them to hand pick between fairly-priced individual items through the website.
Their equipment comes from reputed manufacturers like 2GIG, Honeywell, and GE, and includes control panels, door and window sensors, automated door locks, environmental sensors, sirens, yard signs and window decals. Basically, anything you'd need to protect your home is available if you're willing to pay for it.
As mentioned before, plans include the Standard ($30.99 a month, professional monitoring, fire and intrusion alarms, two-way voice to monitoring stations), Gold ($35.99 a month, everything that comes with Standard in addition to home automation features like lights, locks, and a remote control app), and Elite ($40.99, all of the Gold features with added HD video monitoring) plans.
Customers get the choice of 12, 24, and 36 month contracts, or a pay-as-you-go option. While you can receive a full refund within 30-days, if you cancel any time after, you must pay 75% of your remaining contractual balance.
Overall, Link Interactive is a great choice for home security compared to some of the bigger names in the industry due to the wide range of equipment options and pricing flexibility.
A Virginia-based company with over ten years in the business, Frontpoint provides high-end home security with a wireless system, DIY installation and professional monitoring.
Available plans allow for some customizability and the customer service is accessible and responsive. Additionally, the more expensive plans include pretty great home automation features and video surveillance for those willing and able to pay for it.
Yet, Frontpoint has some drawbacks, including its high prices and severe lock-in contracts. Those weighing the options would do best to read over the contract thoroughly before jumping in.
Frontpoint uses General Electric hardware for its security systems, providing customers with a degree of ease in replacing faulty parts.
The equipment is quite good as well: compact and easily installed. Unlike other home security providers, Frontpoint's security systems are entirely cellular, which means that bad actors cannot disable it by cutting phone lines, but may be a drawback if you live in an area with a weak cellular connection. A three-year warranty is included with your equipment, so don't worry too much if something fails as the company should replace it.
As far as contracts are concerned, Frontpoint offers one and three year plans, but no pay-as-you-go option.
The three plans are as follows:
- Basic Protection Plan: $34.99 a month. Includes 24/7 monitoring, fire protection, and environmental protection.
- Interactive Plan: $44.99 a month. Allows you to use the mobile app to remotely control your system and receive text and email alerts.
- Ultimate Plan: $49.99 a month. All of the features of Interactive in addition to live video streaming, cloud storage for old video, and home automation features.
Overall, Frontpoint provides high-end security with a lot of flexibility, but its high prices and 85% cancellation fee render it a difficult proposition for some.
With no lock-in contracts and optional monitoring, SimpliSafe is one of the top home security solutions for customers without a ton of money to spend.
The company has been in business for 12 years and boasts an A+ rating with BBB. SimpliSafe's good reputation with customers stems from its sleek, user-friendly, self-manufactured equipment, flexible pricing and optional monitoring.
SimpliSafe's equipment comes with a three-year warranty and is 100% wireless.
Homeowners can choose between a landline, broadband or cellular connected system, and the system is controlled through a base station rather than through a keypad on a control panel like most home security systems.
This gives you added defense against clever crooks who know how to disable a system through damaging the control panel. Devices that come with the SimpliSafe system include the SimpliCam, an indoor camera with a motion sensor and HD video quality, and a keychain remote used to arm or disarm the system. Simplisafe does not include home automation features, other than Nest integration, which may be a turn off for some.
Unlike a majority of home security providers, SimpliSafe has no contracts.
After you buy the initial package, with options ranging from $99 for one SimpliCam to $489 for the deluxe Haven package, the system is yours to do what you like with it.. Installation is DIY, but you can opt for a $199 professional installation if you want. Optional monthly monitoring plans cost $14.99 (no mobile control) and $24.99 (mobile control).
By making a conscious effort to right the wrongs of other home security providers by being transparent and not tricking people into long-term lock-in contracts with hidden stipulations, SimpliSafe has earned a reputation as a great choice for homeowners.
While more home automation features and additional hardware options would sweeten the pot, you will likely be satisfied with Simplisafe as your home security solution.
American District Telegraph, the oldest home security provider in the United States, continues to put forward a good product.
Still the likeliest home security sign you'll see walking down the street, ADT stays at the top of the field by providing a broad range of services that most of its competitors cannot match, owing its established name and large amount of capital.
Few other home security providers will allow customers to connect security systems from other providers, or offer such a wide-ranging choice of plans, including custom solutions, but ADT does.
ADT also shines in its monitoring centers and customer support: 24/7 monitoring from four stations around the US and around-the-clock technical support. In terms of quality, ADT uses top notch equipment by GE, Honeywell, and ITI.
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Customers can select from a wide range of tools, like high-decibel sirens, entry sensors, motion detectors and more. Another great feature is ADT's app, which allows remote access to your home system, although it is only available in select packages.
ADT offers three basic packages: Traditional ($28.99 monthly monitoring fee plus $125 installation fee), Control (24/7 monitoring and home automation, $36.99/mo plus installation fee), and Video (all of the above as well as video surveillance, $52.99 a month plus installation fee).
The Best Home Security Systems Compared
In addition to these monthly charges, customers will have to pay an activation fee and sign a three-year contract. Although you may cancel your service within six months if you have a significant service-related concern, after that half a year is up, canceling means being charged 75% of the contract's remainder.
All in all, ADT demands a serious time and cost commitment up front.
Overall, ADT is a very good choice for those who want to go with a trusted name and can afford the expense.
A relative newcomer to the home security industry given a boost through crowd funding its first product line, Scout is refreshingly transparent with its service compared to its competitors that often require long-term contracts with harsh cancellation penalties.
Though some homeowners may prefer a more elaborate, professionally installed system, Scout is great for the more hands-on inclined customer with its highly customizable equipment and systems. You can opt for either self-monitoring or professional monitoring plans, and neither will set you back too much.
All of the equipment you use with a Scout system is self-manufactured and purchased upfront through the website. The equipment ships with a 60-day full-refund return policy and a 1-3 year limited warranty with few exceptions.
Scout security systems are run through the Scout hub, a keypadless device that plugs directly into your router.
Instead of the keypad, homeowners control the hub through the Scout Alarm mobile app. Through the app, you can view the status and regulate all of your installed devices: sensors, door panels, and motion detectors.
The system is also compatible with home automation devices such as Amazon Alexa devices, Google Home, Nest, and other Z-Wave and Zigbee compatible devices.
After the initial high expense of purchasing equipment, Scout offers two month-to-month subscription plans depending on whether you opt for self or professional monitoring.
Always On, the self monitoring plan, costs just $9.99 a month and comes with 4G LTE cellular and battery backup, while AlwaysOn+ goes for $19.99 and includes 24-hour professional monitoring.
Though not as extensive as some of the security solutions offered by market competitors, Scout is a great company with a solid product. Older homeowners might be put off by the lack of a keypad in the central hub, however many customers should be perfectly comfortable controlling everything through their mobile phones.
Brinks Home Security
Brinks Home Security, one of the established names in the industry, recently received a facelift after MONI Smart Security purchased the name rights to the company and gave the company a serious overhaul.
The new and improved Brinks Home Security uses MONI monitoring and Livewatch DIY security systems for a more modern package.
What is a home security system?
In terms of cost, Brinks is somewhere in the mid-range: not the cheapest, but not the most expensive, either.
The equipment you receive through Brinks is based on which plan you choose.
The company offers two options. The Home Complete Model that comes with a Brinks Home Touch display, three wireless home sensors, one wireless motion sensor and a yard sign for $29 a month with a $249.50 equipment fee.
The premium Home Complete Model costs $39 a month (equipment $299.50) adds video and cloud video storage. All the equipment you purchase through Brinks Home Security works through the smart home hub, which is compatible with a majority of smart home devices.
While the prices for both packages are reasonable given what they provide, many customers have left dissatisfactory reviews on Yelp and elsewhere, complaining of poor customer service and deceptive marketing tactics.
The best DIY home security systems of 2020
So, be advised in reading the small print on the contract before signing. However, the 30-day risk free offer and 2-year warranty should alleviate concerns, somewhat.
Overall, Brinks Home Security provides a quality product for a decent price in a crowded market.
As a young upstart in the home security industry, Armorax cannot offer the quality assurance based on name recognition like ADT, but it does have a compelling business model, with flexible plans, top-line 2GIG equipment, and a DIY installation option.
With Armorax, customers have a lot of leeway in deciding which security solution is right for them, and can let the Armorax do the monitoring, or do it themselves.
Unlike other home security providers, Armorax has you buy equipment yourself, rather than lease it. You can select from the options available including 2GIG control panels, indoor and outdoor cameras, smart locks, etc.
Types of DIY Security Systems
at varying cost, or just shell out $649 for a basic system. The hardware comes with a 3-5 year warranty and a $199 installation cost.
7 Best DIY Home Security Available On Amazon
The level of options, along with the choice of locking in to a three-year contract or the pay-as-you-go option, makes Armorax a great option for homeowners who want a higher level of decision making in their home security solution.
Armorax provides 24/7 monitoring for all manner of crises, including fires, break-ins and medical emergencies.
Their response time is less than 2 minutes and alerts will be sent to your phone or email.
Best Home Security System Companies
Self-monitoring, while suspiciously no longer advertised on their website, is available through the Alarm.com mobile app for a fee of $29.95 a month. From the app you can adjust settings, control your system, monitor your camera stream, and receive alerts.
The main drawbacks of Armorex are its ever-shifting pricing structure and insufficient customer support. Not a lot of information is included on the website about means of tech support.
The less-than-clear approach to pricing and technical support is understandable for a young company, but not a good look for a one that you've tasked with protecting your home.
Protect America
One of the top home security providers since entering the business in 1992, Protect America provides service for hundreds of thousands of customers around the United States and Canada. They offer flexibility in their equipment and available plans, allowing homeowners to choose the security solution that best suits their needs.
Unfortunately, there are some drawbacks to Protect America indicated by their low C- rating from BBB.
Streamlining Security and Home Automation
A majority of the complaints center around misinformation regarding the mandatory three year contract. In fact, most customers were not aware they were making such a long term commitment. This, coupled with the severe penalty for premature cancellation--100% of the remaining balance plus paying for all of the equipment--may give some pause in choosing Protect America as their home security solution.
Where Protect America shines is in its provided equipment: the company uses Simon control panels and sensors that are compatible with a number of Z-Wave devices built by other manufacturers.
Homeowners choose between the Simon XT Pushbutton and Simon Touchscreen, a more advanced device capable of monitoring up to 40 devices around the home.
The Best Home Security Systems of 2020
The available sensors come in all varieties, including break sensors, smoke sensors, carbon monoxide sensors, and motion detectors. Cameras and other home automation features are also available.
Protect America offers both landline and wireless connectivity for monitoring.
In some areas where cellular service is not up to snuff, landline connectivity (which is the cheapest option, at $19.99 a month) is probably the best way to go to ensure the ideal monitoring situation. The DIY installation process is fairly simple, though professional assistance is available over the phone.
When it comes to pricing and contracts, Protect America is less than ideal. While the three plans (Copper, Silver, and Platinum) are reasonably priced for what they deliver, the mandatory three-year contract and draconian policy might scare many away.
Additional fees like $10 for fire monitoring and $10 for video monitoring are also not common for competing home security providers.
To sum up, if the long-term contract doesn't scare you away, Protect America provides a reasonably priced service with flexible options.
Nest Secure
While Nest Secure isn't ideal for every everyone, it's a good choice for customers living in a small home.
Best Home Security Systems of 2020
For the relatively high price of $499, customers get a streamlined--yet effective security system adequate for a modest house with two entries. In contrast to other home security options, Nest Secure is 100% wireless and designed for self-monitoring, although Nest has partnered with Moni for a professional monitoring option.
The Nest Secure starter kit is comprised of one Nest Guard hub, two Nest Detect door.window sensors and two Nest tags adequate for a two-entry home.
While, additional equipment is available for purchase, add-ons can get pretty expensive. Perhaps the best feature of the Nest equipment is the Nest Guard, a user friendly control panel that you use to arm and disarm your system and comes compatible with Google Assistant (Google is Nest's parent company). Also unique is the Nest Tag, a handy little key chain that allows you to arm and disarm your system from anywhere without pulling out your phone.
Let's talk about pricing: the starter pack will run you $499 and homeowners can buy Nest Cams for $99-199 and additional Nest Detect sensors go for $59 a pop.
The Best Smart Home Security Systems for 2020
After the initial costs, Nest Secure is quite cheap, since it's designed for self-monitoring. $10 dollars a month will buy you cellular backup via T-Mobile to send alerts if the WiFi goes kaput, and those who insist on professional monitoring can get it for $19 (three-year agreement) or $29 (pay-as-you-go) a month through Nest's partnership with Moni.
However, Nest Secure does have its drawbacks: many BBB reviewers have issues with poor tech support and a lack of information on warranties.
Furthermore, there is occasionally up to an hour delay in receiving alerts on your phone from the Nest Guard, a concerning issue. All in all, Nest Secure does provide a solid package for customers who prefer a self-monitoring system.
It's important to note that while some systems have clear advantages over others, choosing the best home security system ultimately depends on your individual needs and circumstances.
For homeowners/renters on a budget, the systems offered by Scout and SimpliSafe with no-contract options, a simple array of equipment, and DIY installation are attractive choices, while those with a little money in the bank and no plans to move any time soon may opt for the more expansive systems and long-term commitments offered by Vivint and ADT.
Best home security system options
Furthermore, if you prefer to pick and choose your own equipment, Link Interactive is the best option.
All in all, choosing a home security system is an important decision that can have impactful consequences. We urge you to seriously weigh the pros and cons of each option before pulling the trigger on a security solution for your household.
How to choose a home security company?
Deciding on the right alarm company to protect your home can be difficult.
Even among our best providers listed above, there are differences between them. Here's our thoughts on the best way to go about securing your home:
- Determine your budget: How much money are you looking spend on a system?
- Figure out your requirements: Are you looking for a comprehensive, professionally monitored system or a diy option, or something in between?
Do you require video cameras indoors, outdoors, or not at all? Do you want a hard line system or something else?
- What's most important to you? Figure out which company meets your requirements
Basic features to look for in a security system
When you decide to buy a home security system it's important to figure out what type of features are most important to you.
Here's a list of some of the more basic features we think you need:
- Control Panel with Keypad option
- Indoor video cameras
- outdoor video cameras
- Motion Detectors
- Mobile App
- Video Doorbell
- Smart Phone App
- Home Automation
- Contact Sensors for windows and doors
✓ No-contract option
✓ Quick event response
✓ Cellular-connected system
✓ Versatile mobile app
✓ Financing option
✓ Video doorbell with two-way voice
✓ Sleek, portable equipment
✓ Door locks, sensors, thermostats all operable with remote control
✗ Long term lock-in contracts
✗ Stiff, 100% cancellation fee
✗ Shabby customer service
✗ Heavy initial equipment costs
✗ Remote access only offered in contract options
✗ Poor customer reviews
✓ Wireless equipment
✓ 30-day trial
✓ Equipment comes with three-year warranty
✓ Simple installation
✓ No installation or activation fees
✓ Home automation
✓ Multiple contract options: 1, 2, or 3 years
✓ Indoor/outdoor cameras coupled with two-way audio
✓ Three-year rate lock
✓ Equipment is yours
✗ No professional installation
✗ Large frontend equipment costs
✗ No landline or broadband option
✓ Simple DIY installation
✓ 30-day money-back guarantee
✓ Cellular and email alerts
✓ Option of indoor/outdoor cameras with more expensive plans
✓ Home automation
✓ Disaster protection
✓ Large array of sensors and cameras
✗ Hard credit check
✗ Wireless only
✗ No pay-as-you-go plan
✗ High cancellation fees
✗ Poor customer service in regards to contractual details
✗ Live and recorded video only available for high end plans
✓ Contract-fee
✓ Simple DIY installation, with installation option
✓ Wireless equipment
✓ Environmental disaster protection
✓ Affordable rates
✓ 60-day trial
✓ Landline, broadband and cellular options
✓ Optional monitoring
✗ Pricey initial equipment costs
✗ No outdoor camera support
✗ No home automation support
✓ Professional installation
✓ Wireless or hardwired systems
✓ 24/7 tech support
✓ Home automation with Smart Assistant Integration
✓ Six-month trial period (with caveats)
✓ Indoor and outdoor cameras
✓ Environmental monitoring
✗ High cost
✗ Three-year lock-in contract
✗ No choice of DIY installation
✗ Warranty limited to certain packages
✗ Features, prices, and equipment options vary by retailer and area
✓ Reasonably priced
✓ Straightforward DIY installation
✓ Money-back guarantee
✓ Support for Z-Wave and Zigbee
✓ Can opt for contract or contract-less plans
✓ One-to-three year warranty
✓ WiFi with cellular backup
✓ Modern, streamlined design
✓ Support for smart assistant integration
✗ Heavy reliance on mobile app
✗ No professional installation
✗ Requires subscription for self-monitoring with mobile app
✗ No proprietary camera
✓ 30-day money-back guarantee
✓ Home automation support
✓ Easy DIY installation
✓ Live video streaming with cloud video storage
✓ Rate-locked contracts
✓ Intuitive, easy to control system
✗ Long-term contracts
✗ High cancellation fee
✗ Poorly rated customer service
✓ Mobile and web apps
✓ DIY installation feature
✓ Cloud storage
✓ Flexible pay options
✓ Cellular system
✓ Choice of monitoring options
✓ Z-Wave compatible home automation
✗ Large upfront cost with self-purchase of equipment
✗ Lack of transparency regarding technical support and certain pricing info
✗ Added mobile access fee
✓ Wireless equipment
✓ Lifetime equipment warranty
✓ Simple installation and configuration
✓ Home automation option
✓ Responsive sensors
✓ Low front-end costs
✓ Indoor video cameras
✓ Environmental monitoring
✗ Pricey accessories
✗ Lack of outdoor cameras
✗ Three-year lock-in contract
✗ Stiff penalties for cancellation
✗ High price for cellular monitoring
✗ Low-end plan does not allow for interactive features
✗ No equipment purchase
✓ Choice of DIY or professional installation
✓ User-friendly Nest app
✓ Self-monitoring and professional monitoring options
✓ Cell and battery backups
✓ Unique features
✓ Multiple entry options
✗ Poor tech support and customer service
✗ Expensive initial costs
✗ Long lag for alerts when using Nest app for self-monitoring
✗ Nest Aware is difficult to use and configure
✗ Be warned; parent company Google potentially records customer data for advertising purposes
Home security is a real concern for homeowners across the nation, and with good reason.
Crime data from the FBI shows a property crime is committed every 3.9 seconds in the U.S.
Being informed about crime rates, security risks, and ways to protect your home should be a goal for everyone living independently in 2020 - and that includes people with disabilities.
Crime rates show people with disabilities are particularly vulnerable and should take additional safety precautions.
In an effort to help, Alarms.org has created this guide to home security that's fit for every ability and every home.
We'll explore the following topics:
- Property crime statistics in the U.S.
- The most common threats to homeowners
- How criminals select a target
- Common security mistakes homeowners make and how to fix them
- Home security tips for people living with disabilities
- Security tips from the experts
- Questions to ask to find the right home security system
- Different security camera options


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The pros: Trader Joe's Triple Creme Brie is the most buttery brie I've ever tried.
The cons: You might find yourself addicted to this. I don't usually care for Brie. Then my local Trader Joe's was handing out samples. It almost has the same caloric content as butter.
The verdict: Handing out samples at Trader Joe's is dangerous. There have only been a handful where I thought "yuck." When I was at my local TJ's, they were handing out samples of Triple Creme Brie on a cracker with fig jam. Now, normally I don't care much for Brie. I've found it to be tangy in a way I just don't appreciate. This brie changed my mind totally. In fact, the piece of brie I subsequently purchased did not last 12 hours in my home.
This sells for $6.99 a pound and I'm pretty sure that it will make my weekly shopping trip. What makes this brie so special? I did mention that it was the most buttery I've ever tasted. According to Trader Joe's website, this product is 73% butterfat. So it's as close to butter as possible. It has the classic whitish rind which is completely edible. You might as well eat the rind because its quite the task to remove it. The cheese is delicate and soft. There was nothing not to like about this soft cheese. This brie is made in France as an added bonus.
If you've stuck your nose up at brie in the past, then give this a try. Preferable with some crackers and jam for contrast. Well done Trader Joe's. One sample and I'm hooked.
The package of Trader Joe's Triple Creme Brie:
The nutritional information and the ingredients:
Would I buy this again? Yes. I enjoyed this most on a cracker with a fig or raspberry jam. My husband enjoyed it just on crackers.
Want to see more items I've reviewed from Trader Joe's? Click on Thoughts & Reviews of Trader Joe's for a searchable list.
Did you try it? Let me know what you think in the comments section!