text:
ELLENVILLE — Harry Resnick, the last of the three brothers who started a television antenna company and went on to change the face of Ellenville, was laid to rest Sunday.
ELLENVILLE — Harry Resnick, the last of the three brothers who started a television antenna company and went on to change the face of Ellenville, was laid to rest Sunday.
He was 94.
His death marks the end of an era. The Brooklyn-born Resnick was the son of poor Russian immigrant farmers who worked the clay dirt of the Catskills.
Their rags-to-riches story began when youngest brother, Joe, invented an antenna in 1948. It was a ground-breaking innovation that made a fortune.
"It was a preassembled antenna that opened up like an umbrella," said Justin Resnick, Harry's eldest son,
Along with eldest brother, Louis, the three Resnicks launched the Channel Master Corporation. By 1955, they were millionaires and their thriving worldwide business was worth $45 million.
Harry was the company's management expert. Joe was the idea man and Lou served as planner and peacemaker. Their impact on the Ellenville economy didn't stop there.
"He was very generous and helped to start 14 businesses in Ellenville, either by lending money or providing gift money and he helped put 30 kids through college, including grandchildren, nieces and nephews, " said Justin.
The Resnicks helped to build the Joseph Y. Resnick airport, the local library, the Hebrew Day School of Sullivan & Ulster Counties in Kiamesha Lake as well as the Congregation Ezrath Israel Synagogue, where his funeral was held.
"He was a smiling man, soft-spoken, whose acts behind-the-scenes made up for his silence," said Rabbi Irving Goodman, dean of the day school.
The greatest tragedy in Resnick's life was the kidnapping and death of his daughter, Trudy, a health care worker. He helped Ulster County to build the Trudy Resnick Farber Building for Human Development to provide healthcare and social services.
Resnick died at his home in Aventura, Florida. His health had been failing for some time, said his son. Resnick was buried at Ezrath Israel Cemetery in Warwarsing.
He is survived by his children, Arnold, Justin and Debbie as well as nine grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
The funeral was attended by about 200 mourners.
"He's important to this community and the large turnout for his funeral is an indication of that," said Elliot Auerbach, Ulster County comptroller and former mayor of Ellenville.


text:
By SUE RYAN
News staff writers
December 23, 2006
A semi-truck double trailer full of fuel jackknifed early this morning on the Hood River bridge in one of the latest accidents due to icy roads in the last 24 hours.
Assistant Fire Chief Devon Wells said Hood River Fire and Safety responded at 5 a.m. Friday and were on scene for three hours.
"The driver was not injured and we were there mainly to contain any fuel from going into the Hood River, which we were successful in doing," Wells said.
Wells said the driver said he was changing lanes while going over the Hood River Bridge when his second trailer lost traction and started sliding.
Because of the incident, the Oregon Department of Transportation closed the on-ramp at Exit 63 eastbound until mid-morning and rerouted traffic to the Exit 64 on-ramp.
The snow and ice storm created slick conditions that had ODOT crews, police, and tow trucks scrambling to respond to crashes. Oregon State Police dispatchers at The Dalles Area Command reported that troopers responded to 50 to 75 vehicles off the road or blocking the road. Those were major incidents and not minor ones such as cars sliding into a guardrail.
Bob Shaner, of River's Edge Towing in Hood River, said all eight of the company's tow trucks were out in full force running all day long both east and west. He said they responded primarily to 28 accidents on Interstate 84 and that the early morning hours Thursday were the worst.
"I went to Portland yesterday and we were blocked up with trucks from Hood River to Viento (state park)," Shaner said.
ODOT spokesman Shawn Uhlman said crews from Cascade Locks were plowing and sanding repeatedly but that part of the ice and snow simply stuck due to the topography.
"I talked with the Cascade Locks supervisor several times yesterday. The problem is there is a 10- or 15-mile stretch of freeway that doesn't get any sunlight," he said. "If temperatures stay between 28 to 32 degrees then it makes it harder for that to clear."
Uhlman said the sheer volume of holiday traffic actually helps break down the packed snow and ice.
"But what it also does to traffic is slow it down considerably," he said. "We had lots of calls yesterday from Portland media on whether or not there was a big wreck and the answer was 'No, it's just slow.'"
The stretch of freeway between Hood River and The Dalles had its own share of problems with several vehicles spinning out. Three cars went off the road one mile of Mosier at 3 p.m. in quick succession. OSP responded and got the cars off the road as fast as possible while setting up flares and routing traffic into the fast lane.
Sam Wilkins, the ODOT district manager in The Dalles, said that area was one of the worst trouble spots for drivers and part of what kept his crews hopping.
"We put out a lot of sand and a lot of mag (ice melt) trying to stay ahead of it," he said. "But that part near Mosier and the whole stretch from Memaloose to Rowena is in the shade so it stays slick."
Oregon's weather can change quickly and without warning. For road conditions in Oregon, call 511 or (800) 977-6\368.
Visit www.TripCheck.com for information on road and weather conditions, incidents and traffic delays.
Comments are subject to moderator review and may not appear immediately on the site. A user's first several comments must be manually approved by a moderator.
Please read our commenting policy before posting.
Use the comment form below to begin a discussion about this content.
Information from the News and our advertisers (Want to add your business to this to this feed?)

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Baldwinsville The season is truly upon us now with all the nonstop social obligations and chores that seem to go with the package. Take a break from the madness with a sojourn in the stacks where you can enjoy some tasteful Christmas décor without the music or the marketing mayhem. Or take advantage of our many programs, projects and resources that can make your holiday just a bit more handmade and from the heart.
Hurry to catch the Santa Express
Our Santa Express mailbox is back waiting for young patrons to drop off those special notes to the big man at the North Pole. Drop off your letters by 5 p.m. Dec. 16 and be sure to include a return address so the elves can answer before the big night.
Season's teachings
Make your holiday a little easier and more festive while you continue mastering important computer skills. This month's classes (held at 1:30 p.m.) include: Playing Computer Music Files on Dec. 19. This class is limited to 10 hands-on participants, so be sure to make your reservation early. Sign up online or call 635-5631 to register.
Mystery Readers' Club
Deborah Knott and her new husband tackle several mysterious deaths while preparing for the family holiday celebrations. The group will meet to discuss "Christmas Mourning," by Margaret Maron at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 13.
Season's greetings
Join Missy Shipman at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 13, as she helps you put a personal stamp on the season. Register online or call 635-5631; $15.
Tech help drop-in
Master your iPad, iPhone, ereader etc. with a little help from your friends here at the library. Every Friday from 10 a.m. to noon, librarians will help you with your laptop, mobile device, ereader or tablet. No registration needed.
Sweet decorations
Here is a chance to make your very own gingerbread dream house at this program for kids in third through sixth grades (with an adult) from 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 14. We will provide the basics (gingerbread and frosting glue) but bring a bag of assorted candy to decorate your house to your personal taste. Register online or call 635-5631.
(Continued on Next Page)
Prev Next
More like this story
- COLUMN: Library Focus - Stock up for the holiday break at your library
- COLUMN: Library Focus - Open mic celebrates 10 years at BPL
- COLUMN: Library Focus - Library closed Monday and Tuesday
- COLUMN: Library Focus - Tax season on the horizon
- COLUMN: Library Focus - February offers classes, tax help and more
Use the comment form below to begin a discussion about this content.


text:
Board of Regents Meeting
April 17-18, 2008
Ted Ferry Civic Center
Ketchikan, Alaska
PUBLIC TESTIMONY WILL BE HEARD AT APPROXIMATELY 10:30 A.M. ON THURSDAY, APRIL 17 AND CONTINUE AT APPROXIMATELY 8:00 A.M. ON FRIDAY, APRIL 18. Sign-up sheets will be available prior to the meeting. The chair will determine when public testimony is closed.
Comments are limited to three minutes per individual or as determined by the chair. Written comments are accepted and will be distributed to the Board of Regents and President Hamilton following the meeting.
Full agenda with references are sent to all University of Alaska campus libraries. For further information, please call the Board of Regents' Office at 450-8010 or e-mail email@example.com.
Meeting Schedule
Full Board Agenda
Academic and Student Affairs Agenda
Facilities and Land Management Agenda
Finance Agenda
Human Resources Agenda
Reference 1 - UA Health Programs
Reference 2 - UAA Associate in Playwriting
Reference 3 - UAF Associate in Science
Reference 4 - UAF Ph.D. Natural Resources & Sustainability
Reference 5 - UAS Certificate in Pre-Engineering
Reference 6 - UAS Associate in Business
Reference 7 - UAS M.Ed. in Educational Leadership
Reference 8 - UAS M.Ed. in Mathematics Education
Reference 9 - Student Defined Policy Revisions
Reference 10 - Student Residency Policy Revisions
Reference 11 - UAA Social Sciences Bldg.
Reference 12 - UAA Integrated Sciences Bldg.
Reference 13 - Construction in Progress
Reference 14 - IT Report
Reference 15 - FY10 Operating Budget Guidelines
Reference 16 - FY10 Capital Budget Guidelines
Reference 17 - Labor Relations Report


text:
Views: 1727
In my opinion, the public's interest in energy efficiency will change, exponentially, when they can no longer purchase their energy from their provider on credit. Prepaid electrical service will force them to calculate their needs in advance and when they run out of "electricity credits" and have to buy more to get the lights back on ... they will have a new and fresh appreciation for efficiency.
In this regard, the utility company will do much to reduce energy consumption and will appreciate a bigger profit from less use since virtually all of their customers will be paying all of their bills.
This is the kind of thinking I too believe is the right way forward. But, it involves large swings in thinking, so I remain cautiously optimistic that such a shift will happen.
In the meantime, if there is anything I can do to hasten the shift then let me know what I need to add to my plate.
I did not address this issue from any one political point of view in my blog.
Government and utility companies, both, offer rebates and other incentives that ADD to energy use and ADD to the out of pocket expenses to the home owner. Both entities, through their programs, simply fail ... not matter which side of the poltical issue you stand on.
Based on a little info here, some impressions from other threads and info obtained from acquaintances, I think it must vary by state.
If the government would stop indirectly subsidizing the true costs of energy then the market would dictate what makes it and what doesn't. Go outside the US, many pay 2-3x the price for energy that we do. In the US reducing PEAK DEMAND is key for electric companies to reduce overall expenses. It's the infrastructure/powerplant upgrades that cost them big $$$, not so much the actual power generation.
"The 'free market' guys hate rebates, but love wars. " Are you kidding me?
I am glad we have finally got the word "Socialism" out there. The Federal, State, and Utility programs are Socialist programs. Now we can have an honest debate. Socialism is the model Home Performance Pros have advocated and lived by for over 40 years. I have been to many socialist countries that do quite well both with energy and carbon reduction so maybe we should listen, socialism may be good for us?
But at least we are now calling these Socialist Programs by the correct name.
so in your world corporate socialism is OK, but personal socialism is not?
socialsim in the soviet union failed due to sloth, complacency and corruption, mixed with a need to out gun the US.
Capitalism is destined to fail due to GREED, complacency, corruption, and a need to 'defend' the inequality the greed and corruption have created.
I am all for a free market less the greed and corruption. when corporations hold liquid assets larger that most government budgets it is not difficult for them to buy the sympathy of the 545 folks who run the USA.
435 representatives, 100 senators, 1 president, and 9 justices.
until those folks find a way to get elected without mortgaging their souls we are all participants in a process that will eventually come to an end. the only question is will it be controlled, or simply a wreck?
Hi Pat,
I am just glad we are able to finally except the fact that the Home Performance industry relies on and promotes a socialist agenda. It is a positive development that we can call it Home performance what it is, Socialism.
This does not imply anything else.
I do feel that because Home Performance folks are socialists they sew the seeds of their own dependency and addiction to government and utility energy (welfare) programs. These programs also let government's and "Do Gooders" pick the winners rather than the market, and typically those folks are the most clueless. They create 3 ring circus programs that are temples to,endless, silly testing, waste, and energy savings fraud that benefit no one other than the associations, managers, gadget makers, trainers, etc, but save the home owner little if anything in energy. Too bad, this business is afraid of a free market.
Linda's point is valid. All you have to do is just attend one ACI or RESNET Conference and spend some time speaking one-on-one with your peers in this industry and you will find that a vast majority of them are in favor of deep government intervention in the trade. Just look at what Efficiency First did for a solid year a couple of years ago...they did nothing but talk about and push for Homestar, and did so even after it had been a foregone conclusion that the bill was dead. They were having weekly seminars on the fruits of Homestar and how it was going to be a game changer for the industry. I would argue that it would have been the last nail in the coffin with the way they were setting up the bureaucracy to run it, but that is another discussion.
Why were they pushing and lobbying in D.C. so hard? Because they feel that the industry cannot stand on its own. I would say that if those that run the industry do not have confidence enough in it they should find another trade.
I have said it before, and I will probably say it 100 more times. Some of you depending upon these federal programs as a staple in your business better get off your rear-ends and learn to market yourself like every other business entrepreneur does. When the government funds dry up (and they will eventually), you are going to be holding a wet paper bag looking to the sky for help wondering what to do next.
© 2018 Created by Home Performance Coalition (HPC) Powered by


text:
Padmé Amidala
Padmé Amidala was a courageous, hopeful leader, serving as Queen and then Senator of Naboo -- and was also handy with a blaster. Despite her ideals and all she did for the cause of peace, her secret, forbidden marriage to Jedi Anakin Skywalker would prove to have dire consequences for the galaxy.
- Female,
- Height: 1.65m ,
- Human,
Videos //
Soundboard //
Padmé Amidala's reign as the elected Queen of Naboo took place during a time of great change for the planet. With the taxation of trade routes in dispute, the Trade Federation set up a blockade of battleships around the star system, stopping all shipping to the planet. Senator Palpatine, Naboo's galactic representative, debated the issue in the Congress of the Republic, but to little avail. When Jedi Knights Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi were sent to negotiate a truce with the Trade Federation, the organization's leader, Nute Gunray -- acting on the guidance of Darth Sidious -- attempted to kill them instead. The two escaped to Naboo, where they connected with Padmé and fled the planet upon the Trade Federation's surprise invasion. Their starship damaged in battle, Padmé and crew made an emergency landing on Tatooine, where they met young slave boy Anakin Skywalker. Anakin won a thrilling yet deadly Podrace, which earned enough money to pay for their ship's replacement parts, and the group left for Coruscant. There, Padmé, encouraged by Palpatine, moved for a vote of no-confidence in the leadership of Supreme Chancellor Valorum; in the resulting election, Palpatine himself was named a nominee for the office. The Queen was happy for her friend but had other plans, opting to return to Naboo and free her people from the Trade Federation's occupation. Back on Naboo, the young Queen made an unprecedented request of the native Gungans to form an alliance. With the support of their forces, she staged a three-pronged attack: an air, ground, and stealth assault. It proved successful, as the Naboo fighters destroyed the Droid Control Ship, the Gungans kept the droid army at bay, while Padmé located Nute Gunray and brought him to justice.
As a Separatist movement began to grow, Supreme Chancellor Palpatine sought emergency powers that would allow for the creation of a Grand Army of the Republic. Padmé, now a Senator of Naboo, came back to Coruscant to vote on the issue -- only to be the target of an assassination attempt. Her starship was bombed, but the Senator was actually not aboard. Another attempt on her life followed, which led to a return to Naboo with Anakin Skywalker, now a grown Padawan. Feelings between the two began to grow in their time together, and they shared a kiss; Anakin, however, was forbidden to have a romantic relationship, lest he be removed from the Jedi Order. Meanwhile, Anakin began to suffer visions that his mother was dying, and left with Padmé to save her. The young Jedi tracked his mother to a Tusken Raider camp on Tatooine where she died in his arms; enraged, he slaughtered all the Sand People he encountered. Padmé comforted him upon his return, understanding the pain he was going through. Shortly thereafter, the two left to help Obi-Wan Kenobi, who had uncovered a Separatist plot on Geonosis. Their attempted rescue, however, did not work out as planned: they were quickly captured, sentenced to die in the massive Geonosian arena. Their executions were designed to be a spectacle with three terrible beasts unleashed upon them. Padmé managed to deliver a powerful kick to the nexu stalking her; soon, Yoda arrived with the Republic's new clone army, and a massive battle erupted. The Senator fought bravely, joking with her love that they were involved in "aggressive negotiations." They survived the day, and Padmé and Anakin retreated to Naboo where they were secretly married.
Padmé continued to work towards peace -- using both diplomacy and a blaster (when necessary). Among her many adventures during the Clone Wars, the Senator attempted to broker a peace with the Separatists. Visiting Senator Mina Bonteri, a member of the Confederacy, the two agreed to cease-fire negotiations. Unfortunately for Padmé, darker forces were at play and prevented this peace from coming to fruition. In addition, the Senator had a reunion with old flame Rush Clovis -- a meeting that brought out the anger in Anakin, and showed that their relationship was not perfect.
Three years after they were secretly wed, Senator Padmé Amidala was pregnant with Anakin Skywalker's child. The two were filled with both joy and worry, as Anakin would be removed from the Jedi Order should anyone find out. Strangely, Anakin began suffering sporadic nightmares and premonitions that Padmé would die in childbirth. She assured her husband that everything was fine, but he was determined not to let his dreams become real as they had with his mother. He turned to the dark side, slaughtering Jedi, for the power to save her. Meanwhile, her old friend Palpatine named himself Emperor with the support of the Senate, which deeply disturbed Padmé . "So this is how liberty dies," she said. "With thunderous applause." When Padmé later confronted Anakin, repulsed by his acts and his self-professed plans to overthrow the new Emperor, he Force choked her in a fit of rage. Padmé was knocked unconscious and later taken by Obi-Wan Kenobi, who defeated his former friend in a lightsaber duel, to a medical facility. She was actually dying -- having lost the will to live -- and gave birth to twins, naming them Luke and Leia. With her final words, Padmé implored that there was still good in Anakin.
Related //
Anakin Skywalker
Discovered as a slave on Tatooine by Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi, Anakin Skywalker had the potential to become one of the most powerful Jedi ever, and was believed by some to be the prophesied Chosen One who would bring balance to the Force. A hero of the Clone Wars, Anakin was caring and compassionate, but also had a fear of loss that would prove to be his downfall.
Luke Skywalker
Luke Skywalker was a Tatooine farmboy who rose from humble beginnings to become one of the greatest Jedi the galaxy has ever known. Along with his friends Princess Leia and Han Solo, Luke battled the evil Empire, discovered the truth of his parentage, and ended the tyranny of the Sith. A generation later, the location of the famed Jedi master was one of the galaxy's greatest mysteries. Haunted by Ben Solo's fall to evil and convinced the Jedi had to end, Luke sought exile on a distant world, ignoring the galaxy's pleas for help. But his solitude would be interrupted – and Luke Skywalker had one final, momentous role to play in the struggle between good and evil.
Leia Organa
Princess Leia Organa was one of the Rebel Alliance's greatest leaders, fearless on the battlefield and dedicated to ending the tyranny of the Empire. Daughter of Padmé Amidala and Anakin Skywalker, sister of Luke Skywalker, and with a soft spot for scoundrels, Leia ranks among the galaxy's great heroes. But life under the New Republic has not been easy for Leia. Sidelined by a new generation of political leaders, she struck out on her own to oppose the First Order as founder of the Resistance. These setbacks in her political career have been accompanied by more personal losses.
C-3PO (See-Threepio)
C-3PO is a droid programmed for etiquette and protocol, built by the heroic Jedi Anakin Skywalker, and a constant companion to astromech R2-D2. Over the years, he was involved in some of the galaxy's most defining moments and thrilling battles -- and is fluent in more than seven million forms of communication. In the years after the Empire's defeat C-3PO served Leia Organa, becoming the head of a Resistance spy ring aimed at undermining the First Order.
Bail Organa
Bail Organa, a member of Alderaan's royal family and the planet's representative to the Republic Senate, earned respect on Coruscant for his honesty and his commitment to justice. Prior to the Clone Wars, Bail served alongside Senator Padmé Amidala as a member of Chancellor Palpatine's Loyalist Committee. The two became close friends, and recruited like-minded allies to prevent Palpatine's alarming grabs for power. At the end of the war, Bail Organa adopted Padmé's daughter Leia and raised her as an Alderaanian princess. While representing Alderaan in the Imperial Senate, he worked secretly with allies such as Mon Mothma and Ahsoka Tano to assist rebel cells scattered across the galaxy, working towards the day that a unified Rebellion could emerge. Bail died when the Death Star destroyed his homeworld.
Qui-Gon Jinn
A venerable if maverick Jedi Master, Qui-Gon Jinn was a student of the living Force. Qui-Gon lived for the moment, espousing a philosophy of "feel, don't think -- use your instincts." On Tatooine, Qui-Gon discovered a young slave boy named Anakin Skywalker who was strong in the Force. Sensing the boy's potential, Qui-Gon liberated Anakin from slavery. The Jedi Master presented Anakin to the Jedi Council, but they deemed the boy too old to begin training and dangerously full of fear and anger. They refused to allow Qui-Gon to train Anakin, but rescinded their decision to fulfill Qui-Gon's dying wish.
Nute Gunray
Neimoidians are known for their business skills, but Nute Gunray, Viceroy of the Trade Federation, was more cutthroat than most. It was Gunray who conspired with the Sith Lord Darth Sidious to launch the blockade and subsequent invasion of Naboo. Once the planet was under siege, Gunray attempted to force Queen Amidala to sign a treaty that would legitimize the occupation. Amidala escaped, and returned to infiltrate her own palace and blast through Gunray's protectors. Arrested by Republic officials, Gunray was carted off to answer for his crimes, but evaded imprisonment and kept his post.
An idyllic world close to the border of the Outer Rim Territories, Naboo is inhabited by peaceful humans known as the Naboo, and an indigenous species of intelligent amphibians called the Gungans. Naboo's surface consists of swampy lakes, rolling plains and green hills. Its population centers are beautiful -- Naboo's river cities are filled with classical architecture and greenery, while the underwater Gungan settlements are a beautiful display of exotic hydrostatic bubble technology.
Galactic Senate
At the height of its rule, the Galactic Republic was governed by a body of Senators representing the many worlds of the galaxy. Within the cavernous Senate rotunda, hundreds of politicians would fill the viewing platforms that lined the curved walls. The Senate's power gradually eroded after it voted emergency powers to Supreme Chancellor Palpatine during the Clone Wars, and the body was sharply divided between supporters of the war and those seeking peace. After Palpatine declared himself Emperor, power was increasingly wielded by regional governors. Shortly before the Battle of Yavin, Palpatine disbanded the Senate.
Galactic Republic
For over a thousand years, the Galactic Republic stood firm as a democratic union that governed the galaxy. The Republic was governed by the Galactic Senate, consisting of elected officials from each system and world, and Jedi Knights served as peacekeepers. With the rise of Supreme Chancellor Palpatine, however, the Galactic Republic -- and democracy -- would crumble.
Emperor Palpatine / Darth Sidious
Scheming, powerful, and evil to the core, Darth Sidious restored the Sith and destroyed the Jedi Order. Living a double life, Sidious was in fact Palpatine, a Naboo Senator and phantom menace. He slowly manipulated the political system of the Galactic Republic until he was named Supreme Chancellor -- and eventually Emperor -- ruling the galaxy through fear and tyranny.


text:
The Los Angeles Kings may have vacated Staples Center for New York's Madison Square Garden this week, but the blocks surrounding the arena have been replaced with a level of testosterone that not even the NHL can muster.
Cloaked assassins, military tough guys and a fantasy knight have taken control of the neighboring Los Angeles Convention Center and beyond.
All that aggressive advertising can herald only one thing: The Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) has once again landed in Los Angeles. North America's largest video game trade show, one that pumps $45 million into the local economy, never makes a modest entrance.
"The future begins," is E3's slogan for 2014, and the 45,000 registrants will ensure at least that the future is hyped.
Less than eight months after Sony and Microsoft each released new consoles, this year's E3 will step away from heralding the lofty ambitions of next-generation consoles.
The PlayStation 4 and Xbox One are off to a fast start, having collectively sold more than 8 million consoles globally by early 2014, according to data from PricewaterhouseCoopers.
Now, the attention is shifting from dazzling core gamers to reaching a broader consumer, and the video game industry will do that the way it knows best — with lots of explosions.
Coming games such as "Battlefield: Hardline" will pit cops and robbers in an all out war on the streets of downtown Los Angeles. "Batman: Arkham Knight" will spark the boyhood dreams of many by putting players behind the wheel of the Batmobile. "Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain" is teasing war at its most melodramatic, and the makers of "Star Wars: Battlefront" took field trips to the original film locations for inspiration.
Even Nintendo has come out swinging; we recently learned that the company's bumbling Italian sidekick has a mean streak. The latest Internet meme, the Luigi death stare, comes courtesy of the just-released "Mario Kart 8."
But out of the gate, what E3 dubs "the future" looks and sounds an awful lot like the present and recent past.
Early Monday, when Microsoft took over USC's Galen Center as a sort of pre-E3 event, the arena screens were showcasing soldiers being pulverized by the futuristic weapons of the latest entry in the "Call of Duty" franchise. The clip ended with the phrase "power changes everything," reinforcing the old video game industry standby that bigger worlds, faster hard drives and stronger graphics equal a better game.
This is blockbuster video gaming, and E3 in its 20th year knows that subtlety isn't the best way to stun. E3 attempts to wow with effects, or, in the unfortunate case of a new "Assassin's Creed," high-definition beheadings. While Microsoft's Phil Spencer dubbed video games "the fastest growing form of entertainment in the world," E3 often adheres closely to the idea of the game as perfectly chiseled technological product — worlds that get taken out for a test drive and then shot up with precision.
This E3 will give us recognizable characters in new settings. Lara Croft, for instance, was shown in the office of a psychiatrist in the teaser for the new "Tomb Raider." It was a welcome change of pace, but lest anyone think it's a complete reinvention, Croft before too long was shooting an arrow into the back of a man's skull.
Self-reflection makes for a good set-up, but E3 doesn't stray too far from the ol' familiar tropes of death and destruction.
Perhaps that's for the best, as anyone who's been around the conference more than twice knows that the next big thing at E3 can quickly become the opposite.
Last spring, Microsoft introduced its Xbox One with a tethered Kinect, a revamped edition of motion sensor that could better understand voice commands and was said to be so precision-correct that it could read a heartbeat.
Aspects of the Kinect were treated as revolutionary. Say, for instance, the word "snap," and voilà, like a techie Harry Potter, you could suddenly conjure a picture-in-picture.
But as impressive as the Kinect may be, there's yet to be a game that showcases why it's vital, and Microsoft recently slashed the price of the Xbox One by $100 and made the Kinect an optional add-on.
There will be some highly touted tech offerings this year as well. Nintendo this week will reveal details on how its "Skylanders"-influenced figurines will interact with its Wii U console, and Sony is showcasing its virtual reality headset dubbed "Project Morpheus." Another immersive piece of headgear, the Oculus Rift, recently acquired by Facebook, has its own vision for a virtual reality-enhanced future.
As for the future? Perhaps E3 should stick to championing more attainable goals in its slogan. Here's a start: Ensure that female characters are generally more clothed than not.
Microsoft's 343 Industries will release a new "Halo" game in 2015, and when last we saw the franchise, the woman in the lead supporting role — a hologram, essentially — appeared largely in the bare.
"I know, I know," said 343 Industries' general manager, Bonnie Ross, who cringed just a little when asked about the portrayal at a recent press event. "She is wearing a digital pant suit. I look at it that way."
She then added, "We can probably add some more digits there."
— Todd Martens | @toddmartens | @LATHeroComplex
'Titanfall': Xbox One is gunning for next-gen dominance
E3 2014: 'Halo: The Master Chief Collection' due Nov. 11
E3 2014: Creating 'Star Wars: Battlefront 3'
Xbox One & PS4: A console evolution
'Infamous: Second Son' review: Art is a weapon
'Doki-Doki': Video games make a play for emotions
Video game designers take on real-world problems
Nintendo reinvigorates classics in new 'Mario,' 'Zelda'


text:
Oh no, the event has ended. Don't miss out again, get the latest sales via our newsletter, Facebook, Twitter or RSS feed!
|17 Mar 2015 (Tue) (ONE day only)
Get 25% OFF at My Beauty Story's online store at Rakuten Singapore www.rakuten.com.sg with the below coupon code.
Mybeautystory offers branded cosmetics, perfumes and body care including SK-II, Clarins, Lancome, Estee Lauder, Clinique and more.
Max coupon redemption of $2000 per month per customer.
One-Time use coupon code per member. Max coupon redemption of $500 per use. Max coupon redemption of $2000 per month per customer
Rakuten reserves the right to cancel any orders without prior notification
Other terms and conditions apply.
Click here to visit Rakuten and REVEAL the coupon codes below
25% OFF Discount code Coupon code Rakuten Code No: (Click box above to reveal): (Coupon Code 1)
Sales on till 17 Mar 2015. For more information, visit www.rakuten.com.sg.
Get $120 cashback when you apply for a Citibank card at www.citibank.com.sg!


text:
A Tigon is the hybrid of a male tiger and a lioness. This hybrid is an example of our style of training. We take the traditional aspect of martial arts and add our own TIGON/hybrid touch. Our goal is to help the adults and the youth of today find their inner self and peace. We are here to guide our students through the martial arts world whether it is for self enjoyment, self growth or sport competition. Our style was created for everyone to enjoy. At TIGON Academy we strive for perfection. We train our students to maintain the highest standards, both physical and mental, for increased motivation and self-esteem.
With the traditions of Korean Tae Kwon Do and the philosophical principles of Jeet Kune Do we teach a blend of martial arts from stand-up (Tae Kwon Do / American Kickboxing / Muay Thai) to ground techniques (Jiu-Jitsu and Wrestling) all blending into our TIGON MMA style. Under the instruction of TIGON Master Ronald McEvilly Jr. and other experienced martial arts instructors you will learn a self defense/combat style of training that has been devised over 12 years of Mixed Martial Arts training and competition .


text:
CAIRO Protesters and riot police clashed in Cairo and the riot-torn city of Port Said as Egypt's political violence stretched into a fifth day Monday, despite efforts by the Islamist president to contain the crisis by imposing a state of emergency in three provinces.
At least 56 people have been killed in the wave of violence, which has led to the military deploying in Port Said and another city along the Suez Canal and threatened to shake the control of President Mohammed Morsi's government.
The main opposition coalition rejected Morsi's call for national dialogue to resolve the crisis, demanding that he first make deep concessions to break what opponents call the monopoly that Islamists have tried to impose on power. The National Salvation Front said it wouldn't join any dialogue until Morsi forms a national unity government and begins work to rewrite parts of the Islamist-backed constitution.
Morsi and the Muslim Brotherhood, which forms the backbone of his rule, have instead tried to take a tougher approach. Angry and at times screaming and wagging his finger, Morsi went on national TV Sunday night and declared a 30-day state of emergency in the Suez Canal provinces of Port Said, Ismailiya and Suez, which are named after their main cities. A nighttime curfew goes into effect in those areas Monday — though protesters are likely to challenge it.


text:
Did Oprah's Interview Tears Come From the Heart or an Eye Dropper?
A former employee claims that the queen of causing America's Eat, Pray, Love fans to freak the fuck out over free shit used a chemical aid to induce tears during her interview with Barbara Walters. Please welcome... scaaaaandaaal!


text: Overdraft ProtectionProviding protection and peace of mind for checking customers.Having a check returned or debit card transaction denied due to insufficient funds can be costly and embarrassing. That's why we provide special overdraft services for our checking customers. Review the services listed below to see if one may be a cost-effective option for you: No Return Benefit A service that allows you to process overdrawn transactions, up to the limit established for your account, for a per transaction fee. » Standby Money Line of Credit A line of credit, requiring approval, that can be used to process transactions made against insufficient funds. The line of credit is subject to an interest rate on outstanding balances. » Account-Link Overdraft Protection A simple, versatile overdraft protection service that allows your Bangor Savings Bank savings account to back up your checking account, for a per transaction fee. »


text:
- Strictly only one question per thread is allowed, if you have more than 1 question, then open more threads.
- Support forum opening hours are 9am-6pm CET Mon-Fri.
- Requests will be answered in 48 hours during opening hours (weekends not included).
- Free support covers only issues/bugs related to item features as shown in the online preview. Everything else constitutes a customization (See below).
Threads are generally answered according to their last post date, older first. However, since each support staff member focus on a different area (HTML / CSS / Javascript / PHP),
the queue position can be ignored in some cases. For instance, a thread requires a specific staff member or a developer to be contacted in order to provide a solution.
Do not bump your thread, due the "last post" sorting, you'll lose your current queue position.
Each time you create a new thread, your fair use score gets increase by 1 and the value is used to determine your queue position. As a consequence, users with a lower score
will get priority over others with larger amount of opened threads. When no threads are created, score decreases in time. This is designed to prevent support abuses and ensure
that each customer is getting the same attention from our support team.
To deal with fair use rule:
- Search the forums as much as possible for similar issues before posting your question, often the same request has already been answered.
- Avoid opening multiple threads at once, it will negatively impact the queue position for all of them. Instead, post a single question and wait for support staff to answer
then create new thread only after your issue has been solved. The fair use rule will still apply but will only affect your new thread.
Customizations are defined as requests related to code and/or style tweaks to suit individual customer's needs and not related to bugs or problems with an item's included features.
The support which is given freely via our forum is meant to fix bugs and to help our customers with difficulties arising from the use of the built-in features of our products.
To give customers detailed instruction on how to customize their themes, one tweak at a time, is time-consuming and hence unfeasible for us to provide on a regular basis.
If you have been notified that your request is outside the scope of our support or if your issue is urgent, we recommend searching for a freelancer on the services marketplace "Envato Studio"


text:
BOSTON (AP) — A British contractor has agreed to plead guilty to wire fraud conspiracy in a deal to supply vehicles to Iraqi police during U.S.-led reconstruction efforts.
The U.S. Department of Justice said Monday that APTx Vehicle Systems Ltd. agreed to a $1 million criminal fine.
Officials say APTx was to receive $5.7 million as a subcontractor in an August 2004 deal to procure 51 vehicles for the Iraqi Police Authority. They say in 2005 the company tried to draw down the letters of credit it was paid with by claiming the vehicles were ready to ship to Iraq even though they hadn't been built.
Massachusetts businessman and APTx representative Benjamin Kafka pleaded guilty in 2009 to concealing his knowledge of the scheme.
APTx attorneys haven't returned emails sent Monday requesting comment.


text:
|Home > Research Center > Research Center Links 33 > Chapter 9
|To learn more about the book this website supports, please visit its Information Center.
|2003 McGraw-Hill Higher Education
Any use is subject to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
McGraw-Hill Higher Education is one of the many fine businesses of The McGraw-Hill Companies.


text:
6 'forbidden' foods you can eat
Take these previously shunned foods off the "what to eat" blacklist. It turns out they're nutritional superstars.
Eggs (with the yolk). Banned for: cholesterol.
Sure, eggs are full of cholesterol, but experts say they won't actually raise your body's cholesterol levels, because they're low in saturated fat.
Avocados. Banned for: fat.
Avocados boast healthful monounsaturated fats and omega-3s, all of which are thought to lower the risk of developing heart disease.
Potatoes. Banned for: carbs.
Spuds are actually lower in carbohydrates than experts previously thought, plus the fiber in the skins can help regulate your metabolism.
Almonds, walnuts and peanuts. Banned for: fat.
Nuts now top healthful-food charts because their fats are optimal for heart health. They also contain statins, which increase the hormones that keep you feeling full.
Chocolate. Banned for: calories.
Dark chocolate boosts mood, lowers stress, reduces the risk of heart problems and promotes brain health. And it takes only a little bit to satisfy.
Pasta. Banned for: carbs.
Eating just 1 cup of whole-wheat pasta served with olive oil, lean protein and vegetables slows carb absorption, making pasta a healthful addition to your plate.
More From All You:
Cheat on Your Diet and Still Lose Weight


text:
Error creating thumbnail
|This article describes a concept which could impact a variety of companies, countries or industries. To see what companies and articles reference this concept page, click here.
Clinical trials are the process by which a new drug's safety and effectiveness are tested as part of the FDA approval process. When a company discovers and develops a new drug, they must first run extensive pre-clinical trials prior to testing the drug candidate on people. This pre-clinical development process serves to determine a drug's safety, the best starting dose for human clinical trials, and the interaction between the body and the drug. Once pharmaceutical companies have enough information about the drug, they can apply for approval to run clinical trials on humans.
Pharmaceutical companies
Clinical trials can only come after extensive pre-clinical testing and development, which can be costly. Additionally, clinical trials themselves are very expensive to conduct. If a company's drug reaches a late-stage clinical trial and fails, the money spent up until that point will be lost. Any pharmaceutical company involved in the development of new drugs can be significantly impacted by the results of clinical trials, either positively or negatively.
Major pharmaceutical companies include:
As shown in the graph, these companies have anywhere from 20 to 140 new products in various stages of development. In general, Phase II is the most common place for drug candidates to fail. As such, companies with a higher percentage of products that either are in Phase III clinical trials or for which they've already filed a new drug application (NDA) are at somewhat lower risk of failing a clinical trial.
Manufacturers of medical equipment, such as Advanced Medical Optics, are impacted by clinical trials as well.


text:
Member? Sign in. Not a member? Register for free.
This app was removed from the App Store.
Spanish English Vocabulary Trainer
iOS Universal Education
So you are trying to learn Spanish and you know English, or vice-versa? Cool, 'cause here's the right application to train and improve your vocabulary.
What guarantees the success? Vocabulary Trainer has a database with the most important words and phrases used in the spoken language.
To help study and improve pronunciation, it includes speech engine, with both Spanish and English speaking capabilities.
So the most important features:
- Database with most important words and phrases of the spoken languages.
- Speech engine able to speak both Spanish and English
- Training your weak areas: while doing simple training, Vocabulary Trainer analyses your results and you can do training which focuses on areas your are weak on.
- Statistics to see how are you becoming better and better.
What's New
iOS 5 ready


text:
NetWellness is a global, community service providing quality, unbiased health information from our partners. NetWellness is commercial-free and does not accept advertising.
Monday, December 5, 2016
Most men and women do not expect that they will have any trouble getting pregnant. Unfortunately, one in every ten couples will have difficulty becoming pregnant. For many, the cause of their fertility problem is easy to identify, and relatively inexpensive treatment methods result in a successful pregnancy.
The goal for everyone faced with infertility is to build a family using the least co (More)
Understanding Infertility
Commonly Asked Questions
Additional Information
Meet Our Experts
Brooke Rossi, MD
Research and Your Health:
Get Help With ...
Related Topics and Conditions


text:
30 Sep 2013 11:00:59 AM
Excuse-Watch: Anderson Silva Uses "Injured Ribs" and Bogus Percentages to Write Off Loss to Chris Weidman at UFC 162
(You just *knew* that eventually Seagal would break down and rub some BBQ sauce on those suckers while Anderson was sleeping.)
Not that Anderson Silva is making excuses for his upset loss to Chris Weidman at UFC 162 or anything, but Anderson Silva is totally making excuses for his loss to Chris Weidman at UFC 162. And not only that, he's using the exact same ones that he did after UFC 117. Turns out, it wasn't an unbridled sense of arrogance or an inflated ego that led to Anderson getting KO'd, it was his ribs! Three cheers for logic! (via MMAFighting):
It was good that you mentioned this because I was really hurt. Nobody mentioned this yet (Ed note: Probably because your camp denied it), but that's not an excuse for my performance. It was a below where I was injured for my first fight with Chael Sonnen. That's it. I was at 85 percent of my physical condition. I can't talk about this because anything I say can be used against me. It's in the past. I'm okay-
(*puts on shutter shades* *grabs mic from Silva's hands*)
Now, Ima let you finish Andy, but Chris Weidman had one of the best excuses of all time! Of all time! (via Weidman's coach, John Danaher)
He was essentially homeless. He was financially completely bankrupt. I remember I had to lend Chris thousands of dollars out of my own pocket just to keep him solvent while he's preparing to fight Silva. And his life was essentially in chaos. One day when people know the full story of what happened, I'm not kidding when I say this, it's like a goddamn Hollywood movie. It's Rocky Balboa. It's insane. The guy had nine fights. Bankrupt. Homeless. With a completely broken shoulder.
I'm sorry, Anderson, you were saying something about only being in the B to B+ range physically on fight night? Anderson? (*armpit farts into mic*)Read More DIGG THIS


text:
The Cadillac CTS is loaded with style, performance and technology, and it delivers the essential attributes of a true sports sedan. It's as refined as its import-brand competitors, and easier to live with than some. Simply stated, the CTS is a very enjoyable car.
For 2011, Cadillac CTS is available in two new body styles: a two-door CTS coupe and a CTS Sport Wagon. (The CTS Coupe is reviewed separately by New Car Test Drive.) This is in addition to the four-door sedan.
The CTS Sport Wagon, introduced in late 2010, is available in CTS and high-performance CTS-V trim, and the CTS-V Sport Wagon is a 556-horsepower family hauler that goes toe-to-toe with the hyper-tuned luxury cars from BMW's M division and Mercedes-Benz AMG.
The CTS offers something for a wide range of automotive needs with three engine options, manual and automatic transmissions, four different suspension and tire/wheel combos and optional all-wheel-drive in three different body styles.
By price, the Cadillac CTS line compares with compact-sized luxury competitors such as the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class. By size and function, however, the CTS is closer to midsize competitors such as the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes E-Class, and Audi A6. The base CTS sedan is a great value at about $36,000.
The CTS uses rear-wheel drive, the baseline for a true sports sedan. The standard 3.0-liter V6 generates 274 horsepower and revs freely, complementing the available 6-speed manual transmission. The upgrade 3.6-liter V6 increases output to 304 hp, with substantially more torque, and it's rated at the same 27 mpg Highway as the smaller V6. The larger V6 works great with the optional 6-speed automatic, which is one of the best in this class. Both engines feature the latest technology, with variable valve timing and high-pressure direct fuel injection for the current optimum in power, fuel economy, and low emissions.
All-wheel drive is available, and it's a valuable addition in the Snowbelt. The AWD system uses an active transfer case that normally sends 40 percent of the power to the front wheels, 60 percent to the rear, maintaining a more rear-wheel-drive feel. But in slippery conditions the system can apply all of the torque to either axle, maximizing the CTS's ability to find traction.
The CTS and CTS-V feature sophisticated suspension systems developed, among other places, at the famous Nurburgring race track in Germany. Even the standard suspension delivers a good balance of handling response and ride comfort. The ride is always comfortable, but always well damped and never mushy. Steering is as fluid, as accurate and as nicely weighted as that in any sedan in the world. The CTS feels solidly put together, and it's quiet underway. The cabin is attractive, comfortable and space efficient, and everything is easy to operate. The Bose 5.1 Cabin Surround audio upgrade sounds fantabulous.
The Cadillac CTS-V has a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 that makes 556 horsepower and 551 pound-feet of torque, offered only with rear drive. It's one fast car. Cadillac reports a top speed of 179 mph, and when we tested the CTS-V at sinewy Infineon Raceway in Sonoma, California, its lap times were nearly as quick as the NASCAR Sprint Cup racecars that compete there. Then we drove it away, coddled in quiet civility and superb audio.
The V series is tip of the CTS line-up, starting just under $63,000. Still, a buyer can find a CTS sedan with the upgrade V6, essential luxury features, the audio upgrade and navigation for less than $45,000, maintenance included for 50,000 miles. It's a luxury-class value that's hard to overlook.
The 2011 Cadillac CTS sedan and Sport Wagon offer two V6 engines or a supercharged V8, with either a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. All-wheel drive ($1,900) is available with the V6 engines on both body styles, though it requires the 6-speed automatic ($1,300).
The CTS 3.0 sedan ($35,165) and wagon ($38,265) are powered by a 3.0-liter direct-injection V6 that delivers 273 horsepower and 223 pound-feet of torque. The 6-speed manual comes standard, with 17-inch alloy wheels. The wagon increases cargo capacity to 53.4 cubic feet. Standard features include leather seating, dual-zone automatic climate control, eight-speaker Bose audio with CD, satellite radio and auxiliary inputs, programmable central locking, a power driver's seat and OnStar with turn-by-turn navigation. Options include navigation system with audio upgrade ($3,145). The Luxury Package ($3,055) adds a 6CD changer, heated 10-way power driver and front passenger seats with memory, Sapele wood trim and a wood-leather steering wheel, rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, accent lighting and a cargo convenience net. The Performance Package ($4,600) includes the Luxury Package, plus foglamps, HID headlamps, a limited-slip differential, V-rated 18-inch tires and sports suspension.
The CTS 3.6 sedan ($41,565) and 3.6 wagon ($43,365) get a larger 3.6-liter V6, increasing output to 304 hp and 273 pound-feet of torque. The CTS 3.6 models offer either the manual or automatic transmission for the price, and come standard with 18-inch wheels. The Premium Package ($6,055) includes navigation system with Bose 5.1 Cabin Surround Sound, 10 speakers, a programmable hard-drive and XM NavTraffic/Real Time Weather, as well as cabin air filtration, heated and ventilated seats, Keyless Access proximity key, remote start, rear park assist, power tilt and telescope steering and a power sunroof. The Performance Package with manual transmission ($1,840) or automatic ($2,090) includes performance suspension, limited-slip differential, performance brakes, 19-inch polished wheels, performance tires, steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters (with the automatic transmission), fog lights and HID headlights.
Options include Recaro sport seats ($2,800), sunroof ($1,150) and many other features.
The CTS-V ($62,165) models are powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter V8, essentially the same as the engine in the Corvette ZR-1 sports car, delivering 556 hp and 551 pound-feet of torque. A suite of technical and performance enhancements complement the engine, including Magnetic Ride Control variable suspension, extra-large Brembo brakes and Michelin Pilot Sport Z-rated tires on 19-inch forged aluminum wheels. Distinctive details, such as a wire mesh grille and interior badging, separate the CTS-V from the V6-powered models.
Safety features standard on all CTS models include dual-stage front airbags, front passenger side-impact airbags, full cabin head-protection curtains with roll-over deployment and active head restraints for front occupants. Active safety features that come standard include advanced ABS, traction control, Stabilitrak electronic stability control and OnStar automatic crash response. Rear park assist and a rearview camera are available on all CTS models (with navigation), which can help the driver spot children and objects behind the car when backing up. Optional all-wheel drive improves safety in slippery conditions.
The Cadillac CTS might be the most appealing evolution of Cadillac's chiseled, Art & Science styling theme. It's more adventurous, perhaps less cookie-cutter inspired, than its organically shaped import-brand competition. Yet the CTS looks both classy and handsome.
The CTS line is often compared to compact luxury sedans like the Mercedes C-Class or BMW 3 Series, and that may be a function of similar pricing. By exterior dimensions, the CTS is actually as large or slightly larger than mid-size models like the BMW 5 Series or Mercedes E-Class. The Cadillac's impression of a more compact size probably speaks well of its overall design.
The CTS sedan and the new Sport Wagon are identical from the front bumper to about the middle roof pillar. The egg-crate grille design for V6 models is common across Cadillac's lineup. Vertically stacked headlight clusters make heavy use of LED (light-emitting diode) technology, which delivers lots of light and allows lots of style with little electrical load. The air vents or extractors near the trailing edge of the front fenders have been re-designed with a more open appearance for 2011.
The CTS wagon might be more handsome than the sedan, if only because its proportions are almost perfectly balanced. The integrated spoiler at the rear edge of the wagon's roof serves as both an aerodynamic device and the center high-mount brake light. The standard power liftgate can be operated with either the key fob or a switch at the rear of the car. A simple dial inside the gate allows its opening range to be adjusted, from just-above-roof height for short folks or tight garages to nearly vertical upward extension.
The high-performance CTS-V models get unique, functional styling features, starting with larger wire-mesh grille work above and below the front bumper. This doubles the amount of air flowing into the engine bay, increasing cooling capacity for the engine, transmission and front brakes. An aluminum power-dome hood provides a slight bulge to accommodate the supercharged V8 underneath. Huge Brembo brakes, wedged into thin-spoke, 19-inch forged wheels and extra-wide tires, comprise one of the most engaging visual elements on the car.
The big wheels aren't reserved for the CTS-V models, however. For 2011, Cadillac offers 19-inch wheels with all-season tires on all CTS sedans and wagons, including those with all-wheel drive. Wheel options range from 17 to 19 inches, and from painted to highly polished.
2011 Cadillac CTS
As Cadillac has steadily improved its CTS line-up, the interior has definitely kept pace. There are several small but welcome enhancements for 2011, including an update for GM's OnStar telematics system. With introduction of its ninth-generation control software, OnStar's voice recognition capability has been substantially improved.
Inside the CTS sedan and wagon, the basic theme is black with brushed metal and chrome accents. It's very contemporary, very attractive and generally space efficient. Optional Sapele wood, available in several packages, replaces the standard satin metallic trim. It's heavily grained, and adds a warmer, less technocratic finish.
The dashboard is fairly low and away from the front seats, leaving an airy, unhindered space in the front half of the CTS cabin. The hand-stitched center console blends seamlessly into the center stack of controls, creating a sport-cockpit ambience for the driver and front passenger, without compromising breathing space.
We found the CTS to be a nice place to sit and take a drive. The driver feels secure and comfortable, and the front passenger enjoys a feeling of ease, confidence and luxury. Visibility in the sedan is unfettered in all directions, though in the wagon the rear glass is smaller and a bit more restrictive. It creates a narrow view through the rearview mirror.
Fortunately, a rearview camera is available for the CTS wagon. For 2011, the back-up camera is also available on the sedan, and standard on CTS-V models. The rearview camera works great on cars with navigation systems. On CTSs without navigation, the camera image is projected on a very small LED screen hidden in the rearview mirror. It's much harder to see details with the small screen.
The front bucket seats are comfortable, with enough side bolstering to keep the CTS driver snug and in place behind the wheel, even during some enthusiastic driving on central California's windiest, curviest roads. A Recaro sport seat option is available on all models, with 14 different adjustments and bolsters that can be pumped up for hard driving, then deflated for cruising. They're suitable even for race track use, but generally quite hard. Unless a driver regularly attends track events, he or she will be better served by the standard CTS seats.
We appreciated the range of adjustment with the power seats and the power steering column. The tilt-and-telescope column offers ultimate comfort and allows a proper driving position. The CTS instrument package is complete, easy to read, and graphically appealing. The center stack is particularly well done, both attractive and easy to use, with some interesting readout placements here and there. With the navigation system, and its combination of touch-screen and hard-button controls, the CTS offers one of the better driver/machine interfaces in current luxury cars.
The upgrade Bose 5.1 Cabin Surround audio system has a 40-gigabyte hard-drive for media storage, an iPod connector and USB port, and it offers the ultimate in musical enjoyment. Using the navigation screen, it's easy to switch back and forth between the three broadcast and three stored-music formats by simply touching the screen, and the blue display is large enough to be read from the back seat. It's one of the best, most fun-to-use sound systems available. In comparison, many other luxury cars have audio systems that are fussy or difficult to operate.
CTS-V models have a few extra sporting touches inside, starting with a thick-rimmed steering wheel that can be covered with synthetic suede. It's one of our favorites in any automobile. The dead pedal, which allows the driver to brace the left leg, is great for enthusiastic driving. Subtle V badging inside reminds passengers that the owner has anted up for the super-performance package.
The rear seat offers enough room for two adults approaching six feet in height. The rear outboard seats are carved out like buckets, and quite comfortable, but the flip side is a narrow, flat plateau in the middle section. It's not a place anyone over 12 will want to sit, unless the choice is walking. A switch on the back of the center console controls airflow for rear passengers, between vents on the console itself or registers under the front seats.
The plastics on the front seatbacks and the rear end of the console form the weak link in interior finish. They're hard and not $40,000-plus in appearance. In the CTS wagon, rear-seat passengers might feel a bit more constricted due to the wide rear roof pillar extending rearward from their outboard shoulder.
With 13.6 cubic feet of luggage space, the CTS sedan's trunk is larger than those in compact luxury sedans like the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes C-Class, but slightly smaller than the trunk in mid-size models like the 5 Series, E-Class or Audi A6.
The CTS wagon delivers 53.4 cubic feet of cargo space with the seatbacks folded, 25.4 cubic feet with the rear seat in place. That's almost as much cargo space as what's found in a compact SUV.
In the wagon, the bottom of the rear seat is fixed. Yet the seatbacks fold forward easily, creating a flat load floor from almost the front seatbacks to the rear bumper, a great feature. An easy, dial-type knob allows the CTS owner to program how high the power tailgate swings open.
The carpeted floor in the wagon's cargo area slides out over the bumper, exposing a shallow, rubber-lined bin that contains water from soaked boots or coolers dripping condensation, The floor also has tie-down hooks and a slide-track system that secures various accessories. Our test car had a folding dog gate that spread floor-to-headliner behind the rear seatbacks. It was a bit of a chore to install, but once in place it was truly sturdy and impenetrable to any pet we've met.
The Cadillac CTS is cast in the mold of a classic European sports sedan, and it's formed particularly well. It compares nicely with its luxury import-brand competition, and in some respects beats the competition on its own terms.
The CTS is responsive, lively and athletic. It handles as well as the best European sedans, yet it's also comfortable, smooth and quiet. It delivers a good mix of interior space, substance and manageable exterior dimensions. With a wide range of engine, suspension and tire/wheel packages, and optional all-wheel-drive, the CTS wagon and sedan can satisfy a wide range of needs and tastes.
Both V6 engines employ the most up-to-date control and materials technology, with dual overhead cams, variable valve timing and high-pressure direct fuel injection. As a result, they are both responsive and lively. The direct injection gives both extremely good throttle response, with more fuel efficiency and lower emissions.
The 3.0-liter V6, with 270 horsepower, is a fine base engine, although it doesn't match the torque of the upgrade 3.6-liter V6. Somewhat surprisingly, there is little or no penalty in fuel economy with the larger engine, so if the additional expense is not an issue, we have to recommend the 3.6, most especially when choosing the optional all-wheel drive. With 304 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, the 3.6-liter is ready to go out and play anytime the driver wishes, delivering a solid combination of power, fuel economy and assertive sound when the throttle is opened all the way.
We love the fact that Cadillac offers all CTS models with a manual transmission, regardless of how many buyers actually choose one. We found the 6-speed manual has easy, smooth clutch action and requires only a light touch on the shift lever to change gears. It's a good choice.
The 6-speed automatic is responsive in full automatic mode, rarely stuttering in its gear selection or balking when it's time to shift down a gear or two. It's also very quick and positive to shift manually, up or down, with a little bit of throttle blip on the downshifts to keep the drivetrain happy and the tires from skipping and chirping. The choice comes down to personal preference. We liked both transmissions, though our affection for the automatic increases with the 3.6-liter V6, thanks to that engine's additional torque.
Steering in the CTS is excellent: very accurate, with good feel and a nice, weighty demeanor. This, perhaps surprisingly, is one area where it surpasses some of its European competitors, which are still sorting through the introduction of fuel saving electric power-steering pumps. The CTS steering system uses a forward-mounted power rack-and-pinion that pulls, rather than pushes, the steering arms. (It pulls on the steering arm of that front tire which will be on the outside in the turn, so in a right-hand turn it is pulling on the left-side steering arm, placing that side in tension rather than compression.)
The brakes are excellent, too, equipped with advanced electronic controls and Electronic Brake-force Distribution. They provide impressive stopping power, with almost no fading in truly aggressive use, in a car that approaches two tons of mass.
For all its steering, cornering and handling prowess, the CTS doesn't exact a stiff penalty in noise or harshness over the road. Even the base car is well damped, so the ride is smooth but not floaty. If the optimal balance of handling response and ride quality is the priority, we recommend a CTS with Cadillac's optional Magnetic Ride Control variable suspension. Originally developed by GM, and billed as the world's fastest-reacting suspension technology, MR has since been adapted by several manufacturers, most prominently Ferrari.
In all cases, the CTS feels very solidly put together. It's quiet inside in all circumstances, expect when the gas pedal is floored. The standard 17-inch all-season tires are quietest of all, though they lack the ultra-sharp steering response of some the larger performance-tire upgrades.
All-wheel drive is optional on CTS sedan, wagon and coupe models. Even in ideal conditions, AWD makes the CTS feel extra stable, and it enhances driver confidence on winding roads. While it comes with a slight weight and fuel-mileage disadvantage, the advantages of all-wheel drive in sloppy weather or big rain are substantial.
The driver of a CTS Sport Wagon will have a difficult time finding any dynamic distinctions from the sedan. The wagon is just as smooth, precise and well-planted. On the road, the only issue is rearward visibility. The wagon's wider rear roof pillars and upright rear window narrow the scope of the view through the rearview mirror, so it's a little harder to identify what's approaching from behind.
Driving a CTS-V model raises the experience to another level. The CTS-V supercharged V8 is different from the V6s, with an old-school cam in the engine block and push-rod operated valves. Yet that shouldn't be taken as a problem, because the CTS-V's 6.2-liter V8 is thoroughly modern in operation and performance.
The CTS-V models deliver a remarkable combination of sporting entertainment and coddling everyday transport. The steering feels more natural and satisfying than what's found in a lot of sports cars. Clutch and brake action are better than any Cadillac ever, and better than the super-tuned luxury hotrods from some European manufacturers. Despite a substantial increase in pavement grip, thanks largely to its extra wide, sticky performance tires, the CTS-V's standard MR variable suspension never feels too harsh. At two thirds of its 179-mph published top speed, the CTS-V sedan is as stable as granite.
And boy oh boy, that engine. It's a feast of visceral excitement at just about any speed up to its 6200-rpm redline, if you can afford the gas. Its supercharger is very quiet in operation, and it keeps pumping acceleration-building torque at high revs. The CTS-V scoots from 0-60 mph in less than 4 seconds, but there is a ton of acceleration no matter how fast it's already going. There's so much torque that gear selection, road or engine speed almost don't matter. Step on it anywhere, at any speed, and the CTS-V flat flies.
Still, the CTS-V's most valuable asset is its level-headed approach to the business of driving. It's a big car, with a slight bit more weight over its front wheels, but it takes some cruel treatment to make the CTS-V bite. In a sense its unflappable, except that unflappable implies restrained, and the CTS-V is always lively and fun. Its stability control system is anything but a straight jacket, allowing both ends of the car to slide a little before the electronics go to work.
Bottom line, the CTS-V's strength is the same as the CTS's in general, only dialed up a notch or two. It's the satisfying, integrated experience in the driver's seat that impresses most. It just happens to be one of the absolute fastest sedans in the world.
The 2011 Cadillac CTS looks marvelous, with comfortable space for four adults, or five in a pinch. It's got lots of go for the performance enthusiast, and all the bells and whistles. It's offered as a four-door sedan, Sport Wagon or new two-door coupe. With three engine choices from strong-but-frugal to incredibly powerful, manual or automatic transmissions and optional all-wheel-drive, there's a CTS for every taste. Any CTS model compares favorably the luxury-class competition from Germany or Japan.


text: This was my third summer staying at Safari Inn and diving with the Aqua Safari on the ground floor. My visit was from Aug. 11-25. I had my same ocean-front room with king size bed and mini-frig. The bed and pillows were very comfortable and the showers hot. The room was very spacious room, very clean with a balcony. I... More


text:
Your Turn, NH: Who would really benefit from repeal of stand-your-ground?BY TERRY R. PHAIR
February 03. 2013 4:56PM
The stand-your-ground law was passed in New Hampshire in 2011 and then passed again over the veto of Gov. John Lynch to become law that November. Stand-your-ground allows you as a citizen the right to self-defense anywhere you have the right to be without having to turn your back on someone intending to do you harm.
At the time, Gov. Lynch expressed concerns that drug dealers would murder each other and the police would be unable to prosecute them under the law. Others with more of a flair for the dramatic cried there would be blood in the streets. Those concerns have proved to be unfounded over the past year and a half as the people of New Hampshire have quietly gone about their business, avoiding trouble whenever possible, with many knowing that they are much less likely to become a victim of violent crime.
Senior citizens, women and others the violent criminal sees through his predator eyes as weaker and defenseless are no longer forced to endure beating, robbery and worse. They now have the right to use deadly force in self-defense.
That right is now under attack in New Hampshire because of a bill introduced by Rep. Steve Shurtleff, Democrat from Penacook. Rep Shurtleff's reason for repeal is "because something tragic might happen."
More scare tactics with little substance. Further, opponents of the stand-your-ground law have said you would not be able to sue if you were shot as an innocent bystander. But negligent discharge of a weapon is still a crime, and if you cause harm to an innocent bystander you can and likely will go to prison.
On the civil side, the courts interpret the law, so claims of exemption are nothing more than a gross exaggeration. So what is really behind the attempted repeal of stand-your-ground? As with most things political, follow the money.
Who will benefit from the repeal? With stand-your-ground, there are two protections afforded to the law-abiding citizen: the right of self-defense wherever you have the right to be, and freedom from civil suit if you are forced to defend yourself against a threat to your life.
If this law is reversed and you are confronted by a criminal while out of your home with no way for you to flee and are forced to use deadly force to save your own life, then you will first have to be judged by the police and prosecuting attorneys as to your justification. You will need an attorney to guide you through the process. It is likely a grand jury will be summoned.
Because you had no alternative but to defend yourself, then you will probably not be further criminally prosecuted. However, your real trial is just beginning as you are certain to be sued civilly by the criminal or the relatives of the criminal. The absolute best result you can expect is attorney's fees running into six figures. The worst result from the entire process is incarceration with total financial ruin and bankruptcy. Follow the money.
What the repeal bill does is throw New Hampshire citizens under the bus to the benefit of the trial lawyers. Indirectly some of the money it cost you because you were forced to defend yourself works its way back in the form of campaign contributions to those who took away your right of self-defense. Leave stand-your-ground alone and the people of New Hampshire will go about their business and walk the streets as citizens, not as potential victims.
Terry R. Phair is a retired financial manager in Greenland.


text:
Meal Type
Featured Videos
Featured Content
Featured Brand Sites
Featured Brand Sites
Product By Category
Tools & Info
Cooking Tips
Healthy Living
Your Kids
Recipe Ideas
food&family Magazine
Back to school season is here and people are thinking about what they can add to lunch boxes that is new and different! Sept 9th is when the boys start so I still have plenty of time to be thinking of what I can be making them! I did create a very simple sandwich that I can use, though I had to test it first to make sure the avocado will keep for a few hours. I made it for the whole family for lunch to taste test it out with them, and they all loved it. I actually like how filling it is and will probably be making it more for myself.
Turkey Cheese & Avocado Sandwich
2 slices of bread
1/2 avocado
1 slice of KRAFT Singles
3 - 4 pieces of OSCAR MAYER CARVING BOARD Oven Roasted Turkey Breast
SLICE the avocado.
LAYER the KRAFT SINGLES cheese slices on one slice of bread, then your OSCAR MAYER CARVING BOARD Oven Roasted Turkey Breast, last but not least your avocado slices.
PLACE other bread slice on top.
I know, super simple! But I want to keep it simple for the mornings because it's a lot to get two boys ready and out the door! This year I'll have to be making Landon something for snack as well since he'll be going to Pre-K. I also made this with smoked salmon instead of the turkey breast and it was amazing! I may even end up doing OSCAR MAYER Bacon instead of the turkey breast. I can cook up a whole batch in the oven at once and keep them in the fridge to use for sandwiches. The possibilities are endless. Need more inspiration for Sandwich Recipes? Kraft has you covered!
For more recipes and ideas, visit my blog at beingalison.com.
Creamy and delicious avocado slices are all the condiment you need to make this cheesy roasted turkey breast sandwich.
Total Time
Article by Kraft TasteMaker Alison Wright. For more recipes and ideas, visit her blog at Being Alison.
Please keep in mind that the bloggers opinions, advice and recipes are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Kraft Foods.
Receive free expert tips & inspiring weekly recipes right to your inbox.


text:
Request a consultancy SEO Analyst
The role of the SEO Analyst
The SEO Analyst in charge of the garrison area SEO (Search Engine Optimization) so advanced with a focus on recent updates in the industry and helps companies to ensure that they understand how precious their website is, and what you can do to increase its value.
What it is, and what is an SEO analyst?
The SEO Analyst has a good knowledge of AdWords area, social ADV, as well as excellent knowledge of SEO Google tools (gplus, web master tools, analytics)
The analysis tools SEO
The SEO Analyst uses SEO tools (advanced analysis software) and has a strong competence analysis and strategy as well as good knowledge of Excel and PowerPoint for sending reports to clients.
The SEO Analyst / SMO Analyst is responsible for SEO and social media strategies of implementation for customers, and can quickly understand and support initiatives that contribute to the goals and success of customer campaigns.
Search Engine Optimization Analyst
The SEO Analyst helps organizations realize the value of their online presence, it contributes to SEO positioning strategy for sites in the organic results of Google and other search engines and enhance returns from their website with online marketing initiatives.
The SEO Analyst benefits for your business
The SEO Analyst helps maintain a strong online presence, increase conversions from visitors to your web site, and to ensure that the site maintains the standards required by the major search engines including Google, focusing on the improvement of many different aspects of the web site of a company.
The SEO Analyst will propose the most innovative services to help improve their visibility on the internet.


text:
U.S. Forest Service officials announced Thursday a ban on the use of dogs to hunt deer on the Kisatchie National Forest in Louisiana.
Officials say complaints have been reported for years. Hunters have said they will appeal to the court system for relief, a move that resulted in a similar USFS decision being overturned three years ago.
"We continue to receive complaints about dog-deer hunters from adjacent landowners and other recreation users," said Liz Agpaoa, regional forester for the Southern Region, told The Alexandria Town Talk. "Through the analysis, we have determined that dog deer hunting is no longer appropriate on the Kisatchie National Forest."
"We'll file an appeal again," said Trent Hollingsworth, secretary/treasurer of the Louisiana Sportsmen Alliance, told the newspaper. The group has fought to keep dog deer hunting in Kisatchie. "This is not what the people want."
Use of dogs to hunt deer was a more popular Southeast tradition years ago before rural areas became developed. Today, the remaining states that allow use of dogs for deer have a mixture of good and bad – as with anything – while trying to balance the hunters and non-hunting landowners.
Read the full report in The Town Talk by going here: Click here
Read the U.S. Forest Service's report by going here: Dog-Deer DN Feb 2012
What do you think about allowing dog deer hunting on national forest lands? They're public lands. Should some hunters be excluded?


text:
GRAMMYs On The Road With Dave Douglas And Christian Scott
The Recording Academy played host to GRAMMYs On The Road at the Detroit Jazz Festival on Aug. 31 – Sept. 3 in downtown Detroit. GRAMMY.com conducted exclusive backstage interviews with artists performing at the festival, including GRAMMY-nominated trumpet players Dave Douglas and Christian Scott.
Douglas discussed the Festival of New Trumpet Music, his creative influences and music education, among other topics.
"What I've found for myself is I try to make sure that I'm always learning too," said Douglas. "I feel especially in music that somebody who is coming to study wants to know that the teacher is still growing too. … Music is this universal truth. We all have something unique inside of ourselves that we can share."
Douglas is a New York-based trumpeter, composer and educator. Since 2005, Douglas has operated his own record label, Greenleaf Music, releasing his own recordings and other jazz artists such as Donny McCaslin and Linda Oh. He has received two career GRAMMY nominations for Best Jazz Instrumental Album, Individual Or Group for The Infinite in 2002 and Best Contemporary Jazz Album for Keystone in 2005. He is the co-founder and director of the Festival of New Trumpet Music, which celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2012. His latest Dave Douglas Quintet project, Be Still, will be released Sept. 25. The album features vocalist Aoife O'Donovan, marking the first time Douglas has featured a vocalist on one of his recordings.
Scott discussed his education at Berklee College of Music in Boston, his signature model Bb trumpet and the "stretch" music subgenre, among other topics.
"The music that I make, the younger musicians are referring to it as 'stretch' music," said Scott. "It's like a new sort of sound in jazz. It's just like a new type of fusion where we're trying to [incorporate] all these different vernacular and musical contexts into the jazz idiom."
Born in New Orleans, Scott is the nephew of jazz saxophonist Donald Harrison. A graduate of Berklee College of Music, Scott played in the Berklee Monterey Quartet, an ensemble comprising the institution's top musicians. In 2006 he released his major label debut, Rewind That, on Concord Records. The album garnered Scott a GRAMMY nomination for Best Contemporary Jazz Album. His 2007 album, Anthem, was partly inspired by his experiences in witnessing Hurricane Katrina. The album features bass by GRAMMY winner Esperanza Spalding. Scott's most recent album, Christian aTunde Adjuah, was released in July. The album peaked at No. 2 on Billboard's Jazz Albums chart.
In addition to artist interviews, The Recording Academy also presented GRAMMY SoundTables featuring Detroit Jazz Festival performers discussing their music and careers. Participants included GRAMMY winners Terence Blanchard, Gary Burton and Joe Lovano.


text:
What is insurance? Many people frequently and recently ask that question. In general, insurance is a form of management of the potential risks of the things that are unexpected as loss, death, health and so forth. Therefore, in case of the event you can get compensations, dispensations, monetary dependents in accordance with the type of insurance you take.
Insurance can be also defined as an agreement by which a client will bind himself to an insurance company to receive a premium, for reimbursement to him for damage or loss of expected benefits that may be suffered due to an event that is not necessarily. Another definition of insurance is a transfer of risk from the first party to the other party. In the delegation, the rule of law and the enactment of the principles that are universally adopted by the first or any other party rules it.
In economic perspective, insurance means a collection of funds that can be used to cover or provide compensation to those who suffered losses. Therefore, insurance allows individuals, businesses and other entities to protect themselves against the potential for significant losses and financial hardship at a level that is quite affordable. It is said "significant" because if the potential losses are small, it makes no sense to pay a premium to protect against losses.
For example, financial loss will be significant if you are the main breadwinner in your home; the loss of your income will involve a problem of life, education and other difficulties that may be associated with them. It would be very difficult for your family to replace your income, so the monthly premium of insurance is to make sure that if you die, your earnings will be replaced by the sum insured. The same principle applies to many other forms of insurance.


text:
Every day at TravelWits.com we scan over 1,000 possible weekend getaways from Washington in order to find the best deals on transportation and hotels.
As of today, {{today}}, one of the best {{getThemeDisplayName(trip.theme).toLowerCase()}} getaways for couples based on price and ratings is the {{trip.bestTopRatingGetaway.resortName}}, located in {{trip.bestTopRatingGetaway.location}}. The closest top rated romantic getaway from Washington is {{trip.bestClosestTopRatingGetaway.resortName}} located in {{trip.bestClosestTopRatingGetaway.location}}.
For couples looking for a cheap {{getThemeDisplayName(trip.theme).toLowerCase()}} getaway from Washington as of today {{today}} the best options is the {{trip.bestCheapestTopRatingGetaway.resortName}} located in {{trip.bestCheapestTopRatingGetaway.location}}. Browse {{getThemeDisplayName(trip.theme).toLowerCase()}} getaways from Washington below, or start your search above.


text:
Peer-Reviewed Publications
Found 11 resultsTitle
Filters: Author is Myers, Rachel K [Clear All Filters]
Examining a Statewide Educational Consulting Program for Pediatric Brain Injury." Clin Pediatr (Phila). 2018;57(6):645-655."
The Psychosocial Needs of Adolescent Males Following Interpersonal Assault." Journal of Adolescent Health. 2017."
Occurrence of Stalking Victimization Among Female and Male Undergraduate Students." Journal of College Student Development. 2016;57(2):213-18."
Rear seat safety: Variation in protection by occupant, crash and vehicle characteristics." Accid Anal Prev. 2015;80:185-192."
Validation of Parent-Reported Injuries to Their Children." Clin Pediatr (Phila). 2015."
Extending the value of police crash reports for traffic safety research: collecting supplemental data via surveys of drivers." Inj. Prev.. 2014."
Statistical implications of using moving violations to determine crash responsibility in young driver crashes." Accid Anal Prev. 2014;65C:28-35."
Validation of a parent survey for reporting child injuries." Injury Prevention. 2013."
Development of a US Child-Focused Motor Vehicle Crash Surveillance System: A Pilot Study." Ann Adv Automot Med. 2011;55:33-40."
Using community-based participatory research to develop the PARTNERS youth violence prevention program." Prog Community Health Partnersh. 2010;4(3):207-16."
Relationship Violence Among Female and Male College Undergraduate Students." Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2008;162(7):634-41."


text:
Hello, Friend!
Hello, Friend!
Axiata Digital collaborates with MDEC to extend its API platform for Malaysian Businesses to access regional marketplace of over 320 million mobile subscribers across Southeast and South Asia.
In partnership with Malaysia Digital Hub, Axiata Digital's API platform known as Mobile Internet Fulfilment Exchange (MIFE) will enable local businesses, including Tech Start-ups & Developers to plug into Axiata's mobile operating companies' assets to leverage emerging digital opportunities in the group.
Date: Tuesday, 14 November 2017
Time: 230 - 530pm
Location: Axiata Tower, Auditorium Level 32.
For further information, please contact:
Serena Chang firstname.lastname@example.com
Zakiah Hanum email@example.com


text:
Reform the tax code: The need is obviousEDITORIAL
January 14. 2013 1:13AM
The Internal Revenue Service has on staff a taxpayer advocate who is required by law to submit an annual report to Congress. This year the advocate's report included a recommendation that has become something of a regular part of the report: for the good of the citizenry, Congress needs to simplify the tax code.
"In this report, we identify tax complexity as the #1 most serious problem facing taxpayers, and we recommend (as we have in prior reports) that Congress vastly simplify the tax code to make tax compliance easier," wrote National Taxpayer Advocate Nina Olson.
"An analysis of IRS data by the Office of the Taxpayer Advocate shows it takes U.S. taxpayers (both individuals and businesses) more than 6.1 billion hours to complete filings required by a tax code that contains almost four million words and that, on average, has more than one new provision added to it daily," she wrote. "Indeed, few taxpayers complete their returns without assistance. Nearly 60 percent of taxpayers hire paid preparers and another 30 percent rely on commercial software to prepare their returns. To inspire confidence and trust, the tax laws should be comprehensible and the computations of tax should be transparent and relatively simple, yet few taxpayers today can confidently say they understand the tax code or even that they have correctly computed their tax liabilities."
Simplifying the tax code is not some right-wing code for cutting taxes. It is a necessary step for relieving what has become an onerous burden on the American public. And yet both parties have spent decades making the code more complex because both believe in using the code as a tool for achieving political ends, not simply for raising revenue.
Both President Obama and Republican leaders in the U.S. House say they believe the code should be simplified. Olson's report gives them ample reasons for doing so sooner rather than later. But the odds are that we shall pass yet another Tax Day with no real reform, only excuses and blame.


text:
Did you read today's front page stories & breaking news?
From the Wires
NaviSite Europe Limited Joins Government's New G-Cloud II Programme
By: Marketwired .
Nov. 19, 2012 04:00 AM
LONDON -- (Marketwire) -- 11/19/12 -- NaviSite Europe Ltd., a premier provider of enterprise-class hosting, managed application, managed messaging and managed cloud services, has been awarded a framework agreement by the UK Government to join its G-Cloud II programme.
NaviSite Europe Ltd. is now certified to provide its NaviCloud® platform for Infrastructure-as-a-Service to local UK authorities, government departments and wider public sector organisations through the Government's CloudStore at http://gcloud.civilservice.gov.uk/cloudstore/ -- an online database of suppliers offering specialist services, Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS) and Software as a Service (SaaS).
The new G-Cloud II programme was launched on Friday 26th October. With over 500 suppliers tendering around 3000 services, the new network has a total procurement value of £ 100m and over 50% more suppliers than the original iteration which launched in October 2011.
NaviSite Europe Ltd. welcomes the Government's efforts in opening up the cloud tendering process to a much wider and diverse range of suppliers in order to increase value and drive down costs. It also recognises the need to improve the efficiency and quality of public sector IT and is delighted to support the Government's initiatives to change the way in which public sector organisations procure and adopt cloud services.
"We're extremely pleased to join the Government's G-Cloud framework. The accreditation is a huge testament to both the credibility and capability of our technology," said Sean McAvan, Managing Director, NaviSite Europe Ltd. "We believe the cloud can be of great value to public sector organisations if understood and managed properly. We therefore look forward to working with the sector to help increase the flexibility and efficiency of its IT systems and processes."
"Security, compliance and data sovereignty are still real and genuine concerns for public sector organisations looking to migrate to the cloud and NaviSite Europe Ltd. is committed to helping Government organisations address these issues. We believe our approach which assures control over geographic data location, full visibility of our platforms and transparency into our processes; will give organisations the reassurance to know that their infrastructure and data are optimised for performance and are fully secure and robust."
For more information on NaviSite's managed application, messaging and cloud services, please visit the website www.navisite.com.
About NaviSite Europe Ltd.
NaviSite Europe Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of NaviSite, Inc., a Time Warner Cable Company, and a leading international provider of enterprise-class, cloud-enabled hosting, managed applications and services. NaviSite Europe Ltd provides a full suite of reliable and scalable managed services, including Application Services, industry-leading Enterprise Hosting, and Managed Cloud Services for organizations looking to outsource IT infrastructures and lower their capital and operational costs. Enterprise customers depend on NaviSite for customized solutions, delivered through a global footprint of state-of-the-art data centres. For more information about NaviSite's services, please visit www.navisite.com.
All logos, company and product names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.
Latest Cloud Developer Stories
Subscribe to the World's Most Powerful Newsletters
Subscribe to Our Rss Feeds & Get Your SYS-CON News Live!
SYS-CON Featured Whitepapers
Most Read This Week


text:
ArtemZ1 needed a new logo design and created a contest on 99designs.
A winner was selected from 243 designs submitted by 49 freelance designers.
Our firm aims to save lives by improving cancer diagnosis -- help us by designing a logo that will build a strong brand around this goal!
We are a startup applying the concepts of neural networks and machine learning in the medical field. Our primary clients are hospitals, labs, and big pharma. Our secondary clients are patients who are looking for fast and accurate biopsy results.
Some concepts associated with our brand are:
smart, young, new-age, sophisticated,sleek, modern, advanced technology, neural network experts, machine learning, accurate results
Our visual cognition, image analysis, and pattern recognition technology may be applied to areas outside of medicine in the future, therefore, please avoid blatant medical imagery (stethoscope, etc). The logo should be general-enough to be transferable to other industries in the future without a complete redesign.
Some representative logos of funded firms in our industry may be found here:
Our technology is disruptive, revolutionizing the way pathology analysis and diagnostics is conducted.
Our primary target audiences for the logo are:
- hospital administrators
- medical lab managers, MD pathology practitioners (doctors)
- Venture Capital investors in the biotechnology field
Our secondary target audiences are:
- patients seeking quality biopsy results
Pathologists tend to be technology averse. Our logo should convey that we mean business and our technology will definitely work (ie, that we are experts and very professional).
To VC's, our logo should convey that their investment is in good hands and will be handled by sophisticated professionals.
The logo should convey the following mix: 50% neural network technology, 30% sophisticated startup, 20% medical/biotech.
We are looking for a logo that would convey to our target audience:
1. Our deep expertise in neural network, machine learning, computer vision / artificial intelligence
2. Our young, entrepreneurial spirit
3. Our sophistication and maturity as a firm
4. Our dedication to high quality results for our primary clients (hospitals) and, necessarily, patients who will ultimately benefit from accurate analysis and diagnosis of their biopsies.
Which visual aspects to incorporate:
- Our colors are hues of blue, silver, black, and white. We'd like for the palette to conform to these. Deviations for "stand-out" purposes (bright red, yellow, etc) may be incorporated only if they add to the overall impression of the logo.
- Our name, "Neusana" should be part of the logo, however, we are primarily looking for a visual graphic "icon" to accompany the name of the company. Simply funky-styled "Neusana" name will not make for a good logo.
- A net/mesh visual (ie, "web"), perhaps in an interesting 3D orientation is suggested
- A big part of our technology is seeking out an identifying patterns in images. The logo should convey this graphically.
What to avoid:
- Cartoon-like images
- Colors outside of our palette
- Very "funky" designs as we'd to appeal to VC investors.
Find out how a design contest works or learn more about our logo design services.