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Rowenta Turbo Silence Extreme Desk Fan
- Vendor Shipped
Easy, hassle-free returns online and in-store for eligible items.Learn More
Earn $25 in reward dollars4 for every $500 spent on your Williams Sonoma Credit Card. Learn More
- Summary
Rowenta's Turbo Silence desk fan is uniquely engineered to be extra-powerful and extra-quiet, delivering an instant and intense sensation of cool air while remaining virtually silent. A compact remote control lets you change the speed from across the room. The five-blade propeller design delivers airflow more effectively than the flow from standard fans, making it an ideal option for cooling in the summer or for general air circulation year-round.
- Compact remote control lets you adjust settings from across the room.
- User-friendly electronic panel includes silent-night and energy-saving modes.
- Propeller made of five extra-powerful, extra-quiet blades.
- Moves air up to 1,695 cubic feet per minute for immediate, intense cooling.
- Runs quietly at just 35 decibels, similar to the noise level in a library.
- Oscillating fan head pivots up to 90 degrees left, right, up and down and can be used for either personal or medium room cooling.
- Ergonomic handle for easy transport.
- Dimensions & More Info
- 12"-diam. base.
- 20" high.
- 6 lb. 14 oz.
- Plastic and metal components.
- 80" long.
- UL-Listed.
- Two-prong.
- Shipping
Shipping Information
UPS can deliver most in-stock items within 3-5 business days. UPS is unable to deliver to P.O. boxes.
Shipping Rates
The shipping rate varies depending on your order total and shipping destination. View Shipping Options and Charges.
Next Day Delivery
For an additional charge of $26 per address, we can expedite delivery to most destinations. This service is not available for some oversize items, items shipped directly from the supplier (including perishable and custom-manufactured items), out-of-stock items and items to be shipped outside the contiguous 48 states.
Orders received by 9:00 p.m., Eastern time, Monday through Thursday will arrive the next business day; orders placed Friday through Sunday will arrive on the following Tuesday.
Return Policy
At Williams Sonoma, we take great pride in the quality and craftsmanship of our products. Attention to design, materials, safety and construction are our priority. Upon receipt, please inspect your purchase and notify us of any damage; we will arrange for a prompt replacement.
If within 30 days, you are dissatisfied for any reason, you may return your purchase for a refund of the merchandise value. An original receipt or gift receipt is required for all returns and exchanges. Returns with a gift receipt will be refunded in the form of a Merchandise Credit for the amount indicated on the gift receipt. Returns with original receipt will be refunded in the original form of payment, cash and check refunds over $100 will be issued as a company check (may take 14 business days from time of request).
For all cutlery returns (knife sets, single knives, cutting boards, knife sharpeners, and knife storage) please contact us at 888.922.4108 to initiate the return.
We cannot accept returns on monogrammed, personalized, special-order items, custom upholstery, food, items shipped direct from the vendor, or on items damaged through normal wear and tear. Final sale items ending in .97 or .99 cannot be returned.
Made to Order and Final Sale Furniture items are non-returnable, and cannot be cancelled once the order is placed.
For returns of items purchased from your Williams Sonoma Gift Registry, we will gladly provide a refund or exchange for the merchandise within 90 days of your event or within 90 days of purchase, whichever date is later. View Full Returns Policy.


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Renting an apartment in San Francisco, CA means living in a world famous city. Tourists come from all over the globe to walk across the Golden Gate Bridge, ride a trolley past iconic Victorian homes, bask in the city's magical blanket of fog, and people watch at Pier 39.
From beach bonfires to unbeatable food options, San Francisco is easy to call "home." Like San Diego, the weather is sublime practically year round. The city's 43 hills are topped with unique shops, restaurants, and artwork. Whether you're vegan, paleo, gluten-free, or a meat and sweet lover, you'll be overwhelmed by your dining and dessert options in the city by the Bay! In fact, San Francisco has the most restaurants and farmers markets per capita in North America. Top attractions include Coit Tower, Alcatraz, and Golden Gate Park.
Real estate is a hot commodity here, so be prepared for a little competition when shopping for apartments in San Francisco. A one bedroom apartment rents for about $3,336 a month and a two bedroom apartment goes for around $4,469 (November 2016). The most affordable apartments in San Francisco can be found in Outer Mission, Nob Hill, and Downtown. Expensive neighborhoods for renters include Haight-Ashbury, Bernal Heights, and Castro-Upper Market. Your final rental costs for an apartment in San Francisco will depend on your proximity to the bay, your complex's amenities, and whether you choose to rent a furnished apartment in San Francisco.
Set yourself free in San Francisco! Furnished apartments, unfurnished studios, one bedroom units, short-term housing, and condos for rent can all be found below. We can even provide you with on-the-spot furniture rental prices! Let your new apartment complex know where you found them, on ApartmentSearch.com, and you could get up to $200 in rewards to enjoy every groovy activity San Francisco has to offer. Click on a listing to start comparing apartments in San Francisco today!

subset: commoncrawl


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CZW "The Wolf of Wrestling" Oct 14 in Sewell, NJ! Oct 09 - 08:25 pm EDT
Live Report by natestein
CZW "The Wolf of Wrestling" Oct 14 in Sewell, NJ!
CZWrestling.com - This Saturday, October 14, Combat Zone Wrestling (CZW) "The Wolf of Wrestling" charges into the Rastelli Complex, 1855 Hurffville RD in Sewell, NJ at 7:30 pm!
- CZW World champion Shane Strickand's open challenge has been answered by Ethan Page!
- CZW Wired TV champion MJF is set to face #1 contender MASADA, but will contraversy fill the moment instead?
- With CZW World Tag champion Kid Lykos injured, #1 contenders The Rep have promised to make the presence known.
- Impact Wrestling World Tag champions Jake and Dave Crist look for revenge against The Carnies, Nick Iggy and Kerry Awful!
- Ace Romero looks to settle the score with Greg Excellent!
- CZW Rules 4-Way: Rickey Shane Page vs. Jimmy Lloyd vs. Alex Colon vs. Mr. Claxton!
- JT Dunn returns, facing Space Monkey, Trey Miguel, and Johnny Silver!
- Storm of Entrails (Dan O'Hare and Shlak) vs. The Hooligans (Devin and Mason Cutter)!
- "The Product" David Starr vs. Kit Osbourne!
Tickets: CZWtickets.ticketfly.com or, day of, at the door. Show support on Facebook at facebook.com/events/1311127452262399.
Follow CZW online: facebook.com/officialczw - twitter.com/combatzone - instagram.com/combatzone


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40 Years Ago: VW 411 Makes Its DebutPosted on: 01 October 2008 by Gareth Hargreaves
Do you remember the classic and unmistakable Volkswagen 411?
Forty years have passed since Volkswagen presented the VW 411 in Wolfsburg, at that time the company's largest and most powerful model yet.
Journalists had earlier put the VW 411 through its paces on the new Volkswagen proving ground in Ehra-Lessien, testing the vehicle's equipment and performance. Volkswagen built 367,728 units until production ceased in July 1974, and 416 of these are currently registered as old-timers.
The ads claimed there had never been a VW like this before. And they were quite right. This was the very first model with a unibody, a four-door option, more space than any other Volkswagen and a longer wheelbase than the Beetle. A newly-designed, powerful, 68 bhp air-cooled 1.6 litre boxer engine mounted in the rear of the VW 411 was robust enough even for long journeys at a maximum speed of 145 km/h.
The innovative sporty chassis with MacPherson strut front suspension and rear suspension with double joint axles, also used in the Porsche 911, made sure the car held the road well. The midsize saloon featured "the luxury of a luxury car". "Wolfsburg's biggie" offered customers space and ride comfort, enhanced safety, a total 570 litres of luggage space in the front and rear and an optional automatic transmission.
The history of what was known as the Type 4 began in 1962 as development project EA 142. The economics of series production, which began in February 1967, were based on the sale of 822,500 vehicles over a four year period with daily production of 1,000 units. The price of the VW 411 ranged from 7,770 DM (£3,000) to 9,285 DM (£3,800).
Volkswagen aimed to establish the new vehicle in the upper midsize segment which was beyond the reach of the Beetle and the Type 3, and to expand the market position in the long term by broadening the model range. For this reason, the publicity concentrated on technical innovations and the high level of comfort as well as highlighting typical Volkswagen characteristics such as quality, economic efficiency and service.
In the run-up to the market launch on 5th October 1968, dealers, the press and customers responded positively to the VW 411. Once the car had come to market, problems with the clutch on the first models delivered and an increasingly negative press curbed sales prospects. The most common complaints from customers related to engine and driving noise, the engine's limited output and what was perceived as an unaesthetic front end.
Since over 80 per cent of VW 411 buyers were already Volkswagen customers, the vehicle failed to win new customer groups. As a result of these marketing problems, which could not be remedied by sales incentives either, Volkswagen sporadically lowered production to 75 vehicles per day.
The company introduced an improved version, the VW 411 E, for the 1970 model year. Electronic fuel injection boosted engine output to 80 bhp and the front end, which had given the model the nickname of "Nasenbär" (coati/racoon), received a facelift. The VW 411 E Variant, provided even more space for luggage, and this estate version was soon selling twice as well as the hatchback saloon.
Type 4 exports to the USA began in 1971, and the car sold better than expected there, soon accounting for roughly 40 per cent of total sales. A further new and improved model called the VW 412 followed in 1972. Production of the Type 4 at the Wolfsburg plant continued until 1973, when the production line was relocated to Salzgitter, and production at Volkswagen of South Africa commenced in 1969.
Even though the VW 411/412 did not break any sales records, the model nevertheless has an important role to play in Volkswagen's automobile history as the last large series model with air cooling and a rear-mounted engine.
A 1966 prototype is on display at the Automuseum Wolfsburg and the Type 4 has by no means been forgotten. Type 4 fan clubs in Germany and abroad have been presenting their lovingly preserved automotive rarities at a stand at Techno Classica since 2005.
Web Links
Volkswagen - Car manufacturer's official website.
The VW Type 3 & 4 Club - VW fan club.
Type4.org - VW Type 4 fan club.
VW Sites - Links to the VW fan site world.
Did you ever own a VW Type 4? Did you enjoy driving it? Did you ever want to buy a Type 4?
Let us know by leaving a comment in the box below. Alternatively, share your thoughts with other readers in the 50connect forums.
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Raffi Torres got a 25-game suspension for his dirty, despicable, flying hit that knocked out Marian Hossa in the first period of Game 3 of the Blackhawks-Coyotes playoff series.
But you know what? After listening to NHL sheriff Brendan Shanahan, Torres got off light.
I mean, when Shanahan runs down the punk's rap sheet, it's wonder he didn't get a year's suspension.
I'm not surprised the NHL made a bad decision. That's what Shanahan has pretty much done all postseason. But at least it made some semblance of an adult decision.
No doubt, 25 is a big number, but the NHL sounds like it's trying to get back all at once the irretrievable loss of...


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BHS may re-interview football coach prospects
With the announcement that Nate Andrews has decided not to come to Bellmont to coach the football Braves, Bellmont Principal Scott Croner will be reviewing his list of applicants and may re-interview some of the prospects, he told the Daily Democrat Wednesday afternoon.
"We'll begin the process of calling back and do interviews, and try to find the right fit for Bellmont," stated Croner, who was extremely disappointed that Andrews did not accept the offer, though he understood the reasons.
"I'm thankful that we've got outstanding people who still view Bellmont as a quality job. The word is already out that Nate is not coming, and some of the previous applicants have already contacted us," noted Croner.
Andrews, the head football and wrestling coach at Lapel, had decided to take the Bellmont job, but a contentious school board meeting and a 3-2 vote to approve him as the new head coach forced him to rethink his choice.
He decided not to take the BHS job and will return to his duties at Lapel.
Of course, any suggestions that the BHS administration will make will have to be approved by the school board. A source close to the Bellmont administrative staff informed the Daily Democrat that school board members will be contacted and some may want to be part of the the interviewing process.


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Publisher e-book settlement to pay from $162.25M fund
Macmillan and Penguin — two publishers that agreed to settle in the Apple e-book price-fixing case — now have a website detailing the distribution of a $162.25 million settlement fund. Customers eligible to receive a settlement payment are already being contacted. U.S. customers who purchased one or more e-books from Macmillan, Penguin, Simon & Schuster, HarperCollins, or Hachette between April 1, 2010 and May 21, 2012 — including their divisions — are included in the settlement. Those who bought e-books through Apple, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or Kobo will not be required to fill out a claim — Amazon customers will receive an automatic credit, while those who used the other e-bookstores will be notified to activate a credit. Though the exact payment amounts are unknown, the website estimates customers could receive $3.06 for each New York Times bestseller e-book, and $ .73 for non-NY Times bestsellers. This settlement will not affect any customer rights that may come from the conclusion of the ongoing Apple e-book lawsuit.
Judge dismisses one iPhone power button lawsuit
A judge recently dismissed a lawsuit involving claims of a faulty power button on the iPhone 4 and 4S. Two iPhone owners were seeking a national class action lawsuit, alleging that Apple and AT&T conspired to hide evidence of a defective cable that caused power button issues. But U.S. District Judge Gary Feess ruled Apple was not obligated to disclose defects that occurred after the iPhone's warranty expired. An almost identical lawsuit, filed by a Florida woman, is still ongoing. [via GigaOM]
TV Shows disappear from Apple TV menu in outage
Apple TV is experiencing an unusual outage that is preventing users from accessing the TV Shows features of the devices. As of this writing, the TV Shows icon has been missing for over an hour.
A number of users have tweeted about the issue within the past hour, and our devices are not seeing the icon, either. Apple has yet to comment on the outage.
Updated: The TV Shows app returned to U.S. Apple TVs after a roughly five-hour outage.
Pioneer Electronics debuts DDJ-WeGO2 DJ controller
Pioneer Electronics has announced its DDJ-WeGO2 compact DJ controller ($429). The iOS-compatible DDJ-WeGO2 includes a Lightning cable to connect to the controller to a compatible iPhone, iPad or iPod touch. Featuring two jog wheels, the USB-powered DDJ-WeGo2 is compatible with Algoriddim's recently updated djay 2 app.
DDJ-WeGO2's effects include Jog FX, which lets users combine multiple effects together with simultaneous control, and Pulse Control, which offers visual prompts through colored lights. The controller comes in black, white, and red. It will be released in October.
Apps: djay 2 2.0.2, Flickr 2.20, The Room Epilogue + Twitter 5.10
Algoriddim's djay 2 has been updated for both iPhone ($2) and iPad ($10) to version 2.0.2. Both versions have added support for the Pioneer DDJ-WeGO2 DJ controller, improved syncing with tapped BPM, an improved "analyze library," and improved sampler button mapping for supported DJ controllers. The iPhone version has also added Slip Mode in waveform view.
Flickr (free) from Yahoo! has updated to version 2.20.1134. With the update comes filters, which have become popular in other photo apps. Flickr features stock and customizable filters, as well as live filters, which show what the filtered picture will look like before taking the shot. New camera tools have been added, including grids, pinch-to-zoom, and locking focus and exposure points. Additionally, pro editing tools such as enhance, crop, sharpen, and more are free to use within the app. New animated transitions between the camera and editing tools have also been added.
ESPNEWS, ESPN Deportes added to Apple TV
Apple has added ESPNEWS and ESPN Deportes to the ESPN channel list on Apple TV. ESPNEWS is ESPN's 24-hour sports news channel, and ESPN Deportes is the company's Spanish-language sports channel. There are now seven ESPN channels on Apple TV, including ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, ESPNU, and Goal Line, the last of which is a live college football channel only available during college football Saturdays.
All of the ESPN channels require a cable provider sign-in. It's a big week for new channels on Apple TV, as Vevo, Disney, Disney XD, The Weather Channel, and the Smithsonian Channel were just added on Tuesday.
Report: AppleCare+ to debut in Europe
Apple will soon launch its AppleCare+ extended warranty program in Europe, according to a French report. AppleCare+ was introduced for the iPhone in the U.S. in 2011, and later expanded to include the iPad in addition to launching in Canada and Japan. Despite rumours of a U.K. launch last year, AppleCare+ was never made available in Europe, which continues to offer customers the standard AppleCare Protection Plan. AppleCare+ is an enhanced version of the standard AppleCare plan which provides iPhone and iPad users with coverage for up to two incidents of accidental damage due to handling. No exact timeline or specific countries were mentioned in the report. Notably, Apple has had issues involving properly informing customers about warranty rights in a number of European countries. [via iGen.fr (translated link)]
CableJive intros new dockBoss air
CableJive has released a new version of dockBoss air ($35), an adapter that lets users wirelessly stream audio from a device to a 30-pin audio dock. Unlike the recently released dockBoss 5, the new dockBoss air uses Bluetooth for wireless audio streaming, allowing for audio control from up to 33 feet away from a speaker dock.
CableJive claims this version of dockBoss air has clearer audio and increased volume than the prior version. The new dockBoss air is available now.
E-book case judge seeks competition, not Apple punishment
The judge who found Apple guilty of fixing e-book prices doesn't want the government's proposed remedies to drastically affect Apple's business, reports the Associated Press. "I want this injunction to rest as lightly as possible on how Apple runs its business," U.S. District Judge Denise Cote said. Cote believes any provisions that would affect the App Store — such as allowing third party apps to link to their own e-bookstores — are unnecessary. "The App store (sic) was only an incidental part of this trial," she said. Cote also said she would likely limit the authority of a monitor that would be assigned to prevent antitrust behavior at Apple. A trial to determine damages is still set for May 2014.
Apple acquires Swedish algorithm developer AlgoTrim
Apple has acquired AlgoTrim, a Swedish company that specializes in compression algorithms for mobile phones. AlgoTrim "developed algorithms for lossless compression of processing instructions in operating systems and applications," according to a Swedish news service. The compression techniques allow for faster processing and reduced use in flash memory. AlgoTrim's software was found in about 100 million phones by the end of 2011, with the company previously focusing on Android phones. Apple has made five known acquisitions in recent weeks, most recently acquiring transit app developer Embark. [via Rapidus]
Report: 64-bit chip unlikely in iPhone 5S
Despite recent speculation, it's unlikely that Apple's iPhone 5S will actually contain a 64-bit chip, according to a new report. ARM Ltd's first 64-bit mobile processor cores aren't expected to appear in smartphones until 2014, and a shift from 32-bit to 64-bit architectures would only yield an 8 to 10 percent performance boost on its own, suggests ARM's James Bruce. Bruce also said the industry will move to 64-bit mobile chips "over the next four years," starting with the Cortex-A53, ARM's first 64-bit mobile processor. The report concludes with the assumption that Apple is indeed pursuing and testing 64-bit chips, but such tests can't be taken as definitive evidence that such a chip is forthcoming this year. [via Network World]
Apps: Madden NFL 25, Notability 5.01, Pinball Arcade 2.7 + Solar Flux HD
EA's Madden NFL 25 (Free*) has taken the "freemium" game model to ridiculous extremes. Feeling more like a shakedown than a football game, Madden is free to play, but rubs artificial-feeling limitations in your face well before your team can take the field. Before you get to play the game, you're told that you're being given some basic player cards and enough credit to play a game for free, after which the title tries to sell you Madden Cash using in-app purchases. Paying lets you keep playing a seriously stripped-down version of Madden football using very simple tap and touch controls, but in some cases, you'll have to unlock individual plays, as well as players. If paying outright for player cards didn't seem silly enough, Madden includes an in-app auction where players can compete against each other to buy cards for certain players. We can't imagine anyone paying anything—let alone $100, as offered in one in-app purchase—to keep playing a game that has nowhere near the depth or content of a console football title. The in-game graphics aren't much better than football titles from two years ago, Retina support not withstanding, and the audio's nothing special, either. Our advice: skip this one.
Notability ($5) from Ginger Labs has updated to version 5.01, and is now universal on all iOS devices. The note-taking app has also added iCloud support to keep notes updated on any iOS device running iOS 6 or later. A new scissor tool lets users scale and rotate handwriting. Themes have gotten a new look and feel, and one new theme has been added, as well.
Apple iPhone Reuse + Recycle Program starts Aug. 30 (Update)
Apple's new iPhone trade-in program, the iPhone Reuse and Recycle Program, will roll out in select Apple stores this Friday, August 30, according to 9to5Mac. The program will roll out on a larger scale in September. Apple store employees will offer a value for an old iPhone 3G, 3GS, 4, 4S or 5 based on display and button quality, hardware and liquid damage, engraving, and if the device powers on and works normally. When trading in the device, customers will receive a gift card with the determined value amount to go toward the new iPhone. Customers will receive the old SIM card and employees will offer to setup the new iPhone.
As was reported in June, BrightStar will handle shipping and processing. Non-functioning iPhones with no worth will also be recycled through BrightStar. It's also noted that "trade-in pricing for the iPhones is slightly below the competition." An unlocked, undamaged 16GB iPhone 5 could net about $279, and an AT&T version of the same iPhone will be worth around $255, both below current Gazelle rates. A GSM 8GB iPhone 4 "will be worth between $120 and $140," while the CDMA version will be closer to $80.
Update (Aug. 30): Apple is rolling out its in-store iPhone trade-in program nationwide today, according to a CNBC tweet. It was initially reported that Apple would roll out the program in select stores before a larger rollout, but it now appears the company is launching the program in all U.S. Apple stores.
Apple TV adds Vevo, Disney, Weather Channel, Smithsonian channels
Apple has added new channels to Apple TV today — Vevo, Disney Channel, Disney XD, The Weather Channel, and the Smithsonian Channel. Disney XD is a separate channel from Disney Channel, aimed at preteens and teenagers; both Disney channels require signing in with a selected cable provider. Smithsonian Channel includes a collection of on-demand videos, and does not require an existing cable TV subscription. After requesting your city or zip code, The Weather Channel uses a new interface to show you today's weather, full-screen hourly and 10-day forecasts, region-specific forecast videos, access to Weather Channel shows, topics of interest, and featured videos.
It was expected that Vevo would be introduced to the device soon, and the channel has both live and on-demand music videos. Interestingly, a system update isn't needed to see the new channels, which means a prior update enabled Apple to add full-fledged channels to the Apple TV at any time. The new channels do not appear to be available outside of the United States at this point.
Apple says DOJ e-book remedies biased toward Amazon
Apple has responded to the U.S. Department of Justice's revised remedies in the e-book price-fixing case, claiming that the proposed remedy is biased in favor of Amazon. Apple said in a court filing, "Plaintiffs are seeking a remedy that would give Amazon significant competitive advantage over Apple — an advantage it is neither entitled to nor deserves." According to a report, Apple is "vehemently opposed" to Amazon and others providing links from e-book apps to their own bookstores without paying Apple. The company also takes issue with the proposal of an external monitor, and is still seeking new remedies from the DOJ. Apple and the DOJ are scheduled to meet in court today. [via AllThingsD]
New AppleCare website, 24/7 chat support launched
Apple has launched a redesigned AppleCare support website, alongside 24/7 chat support for both iOS devices and Macs. The new site offers a number of options to help users, including live online chat and phone calls from Apple Support — users can see wait times for both options.
The streamlined site also offers suggestions to resolve frequent support issues, sorted by device. A recent report noted that Apple would soon be introducing these revamped online support options. [via 9to5Mac]
Report: Apple's iPhone trade-in program set for September
Apple is getting ready to launch its rumored iPhone trade-in program in its retail stores in September, according to a new report. The program will let customers trade in older iPhones for new models. A June report claimed Apple would be launching its trade-in program that month, but this most recent report claims a planned July launch was "pushed back for unspecified reasons." In addition to pushing iPhone sales, Apple believes the program will convince customers to trade in damaged iPhones for newer devices, so Genius Bar workers will be able to concentrate on issues other than getting customers refurbished replacement phones. Apple CEO Tim Cook has reportedly emphasized selling more iPhones in Apple stores, and it would make sense for Apple to introduce such a program around the release of the company's newest iPhones next month. [via 9to5Mac]
Apple restricting access to iWork for iCloud beta
Apple is denying some users access to iWork for iCloud beta, which just opened to the public on Friday. A message from Apple says the new service has "had an overwhelming response," and that users should "check back soon." No timeframe is given for when the service will open up to users who are currently unable to gain access. Public invites to iWork for iCloud beta were first sent out in July. [via 9to5Mac]
iPhone 5S: 64-bit A7, motion tracking, graphite color?
Several late-breaking rumors suggest that the iPhone 5S may include a speed bump, gesture control capabilities, and a graphite/black color option similar to the first-generation iPhone. According to a tweet from Fox News' Clayton Morris, the iPhone 5S new A7 chip is running "about 31% faster than A6," providing the first apparent quantification for a June rumor that an A7 chip was inside iPhone 5S prototypes. Separately, 9to5Mac notes that some 5S prototypes have contained 64-bit versions of the A7, which would smooth graphics and animations. Morris has also heard "there's a separate chip devoted to motion tracking," tweeting, "Should be an interesting camera upgrade." Some speculation suggests that the motion tracking could go beyond just automatic camera adjustments, and aid in controlling the iPhone without touching the screen.
Finally, a leak of iPhone 5S parts by Sonny Dickson suggests that Apple has been testing another color option: a graphite metal and black glass color combination. The parts clearly show a metal iPhone 5-style chassis that is slightly darker in color than the white and silver iPhone 5S, with black — not white — antenna interruption bars on the sides.
DOJ revises proposed Apple e-book price fixing remedy
The U.S. Department of Justice has revised its previously proposed remedy addressing Apple's e-book price fixing. While the general terms have not dramatically changed, the DOJ has offered to reduce the length of the injunction from ten years down to five along with easing some of the restrictions on Apple's ability to make new deals with book publishers.
Apple's response to the original proposal was to call it "a draconian and punitive intrusion" into the company's business, and has stated that it will be appealing the July 10th ruling, arguing that it "exceeds the bounds of even criminal price-fixing cases" and is an effort to "inflict punishment" upon the company. [via Engadget]


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"Abortion advocates say they want to keep government out of the abortion decision," states Fr. Frank Pavone, National Director of Priests for Life. "If that were true, they would have supported the Minnesota House's vote to stop the state from subsidizing the procedure."
Fr. Pavone's comments come on the heels of the Minnesota House of Representatives' approval of legislation to bar state funding of abortion except where necessary to participate in federal programs.
Priests for Life is the nation's largest Catholic pro-life organization dedicated to ending abortion and euthanasia. For more information, visit www.priestsforlife.org.


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North Fla. county that allowed 10 Commandments monument reaches deal for atheist monument
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The courtyard outside the Bradford County Courthouse in north Florida will soon become home to an atheist monument.
The county has reached a deal to allow American Atheists to install a 1,500-pound granite bench near the courthouse. The bench will feature quotes from Thomas Jefferson and Madalyn Murray O'Hair.
It will also include a list of punishments for violating the Ten Commandments, including stoning.
The placement of the monument in late June will end a lawsuit between American Atheists and the county. The national organization sued after Bradford County allowed a local group to install a monument that lists the Ten Commandments.
Dave Muscato of American Atheists says it is believed to be the first monument dedicated to atheism to be placed on public land in the United States.


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- Mercedes
Mercedes drivers 'a little bit like teenagers' - WolffLaurence Edmondson May 27, 2014 « Raikkonen a 'super-cool guy' - Mattiacci | Red Bull competitiveness 'very much in Renault's hands' »
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff says Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg are like teenagers pushing boundaries as they try to get the upper hand in their growing rivalry.
The tension between the two intensified over the Monaco Grand Prix weekend after Hamilton felt Rosberg prevented him setting a final quick lap in qualifying. On his final attempt, Rosberg missed his braking point at Mirabeau and took the escape road, causing Hamilton to slow for yellow flags at the corner and settle for second place.
Wolff has made clear that he does not think Rosberg took to the run-off zone on purpose, but highlighted existing divisions between the two that sparked the growing rift. He says Mercedes has put up boundaries of fair play to manage the rivalry, but that the drivers - like teenagers with their parents - are pushing the limits to see what they can get away with.
"We started [setting boundaries] before the season and this is a dynamic process that is being recalibrated before every single weekend - before the race weekend, at the race weekend and after the race weekend," he said. "Sometimes, and I mean this with a positive spin, they are a little bit like teenagers finding out how far they can go."
Wolff said Mercedes has been able to be a little bit lax in enforcing team orders because of the advantage the team has over the rest of the field.
"I think we are lucky that is still within the boundaries that we have set, because they have known each other for such a long time. You have seen in other teams how difficult it can get to manage and we are just lucky our car is performing so we have a bit of margin to allow them to play around. In a normal championship situation probably we would have made it a little more boring by now."
Asked whether Mercedes would make it through the season without one driver feeling like they are being treated unfairly, Wolff added: "On an average long-term, I think yes. But with peaks in both directions."
However, Wolff admits that his two drivers see the qualifying incident in Monaco in completely different ways.
"Everybody has their own perception, and, for Lewis, it is absolutely clear that it is black and it was a foul and, for Nico, it was absolutely clear it was white and not a foul. When we discussed it with them on Saturday we tried to explain that maybe the truth and the reality is somewhere in the middle. This is why it happened as it happened.
"If it was done on purpose, maybe it was payback. If it was done on purpose, it was done very intelligently. But I don't believe it was done on purpose because I know Nico and his character and he acts on his principles and is a guy who expects everybody to act with integrity and to a certain moral standard. So I am 110,000% certain he did not do it on purpose, even though some might be of another opinion."
Laurence Edmondson is deputy editor of ESPNF1


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Remarkable story. I like with the twists scenes.
Please not more gambling scenes.
Fantastic science fiction movie. My first time watching Star Wars.
I watched this movie for entertaining no to watch how a Jedi gets training end etc. Silly reviews about the Jedi skills. Lol
Mark Harmill did an amazing job. Carrie Fisher role was elegant and perfect. Sadly this was her last movie.
I had blast watching this movie. Seriously it was funny and sad at the same time.
So far the best movie of the year from Star Wars. Still they need to make less longer.
Interesting story. The movie have many surprises and good moments.
Epic excellent story.
Awful. Soulless and formulaic, totally lacking in any sense of wonder or originality. Also if you're a fan of Luke Skywalker, be prepared to be disappointed by his screen time and how his character is portrayed.
The director is having hard time to please everyone. I think the movie was okay.
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(AP) Hagel, Dempsey face Congress over defense budget
By DONNA CASSATA
Associated Press
Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel and Gen. Martin Dempsey, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, face budget-conscious lawmakers determined to cut spending but resistant to changes that President Barack Obama insists would save the military money.
Hagel and Dempsey were to testify Thursday before the House Armed Services Committee on Obama's 2014 defense budget, a day after Obama unveiled the $526.6 billion proposal to cover the cost of buying ships, aircraft, tanks and maintaining the nation's war fighters.
The hearing marks Hagel's first trip back to Capitol Hill since his bruising Senate confirmation fight in February.
In a time of fiscal austerity, tea partyers and other conservatives have clamored for significant cuts in spending as the federal government grapples with a nearly $1 trillion annual deficit. Yet they've rejected cost-cutting changes envisioned by the Pentagon, including domestic base closings, an increase in health care fees for military retirees and the cancellation of some weapons.
The Pentagon is trying again with the new budget, seeking another round of base closings in 2015, requesting the retiree health care fee hike and proposing to terminate a version of the Global Hawk unmanned aircraft. Hagel and Dempsey are certain to find themselves on the defensive as lawmakers already have made clear that they oppose several of these moves.
In fact, the budget proposal reflects a degree of wishful thinking on the part of the Pentagon. It ignores the automatic, across-the-board budget cuts that the military is dealing with daily.
The proposal calls for a base Pentagon budget of $526.6 billion _ $52 billion more than the $475 billion level established by the spending cuts set in the budget agreement between Obama and congressional Republicans in August 2011. Fiscal conservatives have accepted the cuts as a surefire way to reduce the federal deficit, and they have shown no inclination to abandon the cuts despite the outcry of defense hawks and senior Pentagon officials who fear an erosion of U.S. military might.
The budget plan includes an $88.5 billion placeholder for additional war costs in Afghanistan as Obama decides on the pace of the drawdown of American combat troops next year and the eventual size of the residual force after December 2014. The administration likely will submit a war cost request in late April or early May.
Or, as Deputy Defense Secretary Ashton Carter said this week: "Sequester is an artificial, self-inflicted political problem, not a structural problem. Hopefully, the turmoil and gridlock will end and the U.S. can get back to normal budgeting."
Obama's budget reflects the end of more than a decade of conflict in Iraq and Afghanistan and the military's strategic pivot to Asia as a nuclear North Korea increases its belligerence and China builds up its forces. After years of robust budgets, the Pentagon faces projected spending reductions totaling $487 billion over 10 years, plus tens of billions more from the automatic cuts, including $41 billion that kicked in March 1.
Instead of the across-the-board cuts of some $500 billion over 10 years, the administration is proposing $150 billion in additional defense savings over a decade, though Hagel said the reductions wouldn't occur until "beyond fiscal 2018."
The reductions, however, can't alter one reality: The United States spends more on defense than the next 16 largest militaries in the world combined.
The Pentagon plan seeks congressional approval for another round of domestic military base closings, with closure decisions to be made in 2015 and implemented starting a year later. Lawmakers already have signaled that they will oppose base closures; the Pentagon budget chief, Robert Hale, told reporters he recognizes the reluctance, but "we have to keep asking" because base closures are a long-term key to saving money.
Congress has complained that the initial cost of shuttering installations is too high, despite projected long-term savings. In response, the Pentagon is seeking $2.4 billion over five years to cover the upfront expense.
Hagel called base closings a "comprehensive and fair tool" that gives communities a role in the decision-making process.
Rep. Michael Turner, R-Ohio, said another base closing round is a non-starter, pointing out that even Obama had said additional rounds were unwise.
The president's defense proposal also calls for an increase in fees for health care, as the overall program costs around $53 billion a year and represents 10 percent of the budget. Congress, with the backing of veterans' groups, has resisted significant changes in the fees for a program that covers nearly 10 million active duty personnel, retirees, reservists and their families.
The Congressional Budget Office estimates the cost of the program could reach $65 billion by 2017 and $95 billion by 2030.
Follow Donna Cassata on Twitter: http://twitter.com/DonnaCassataAP


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Lady Pilgrims fall in frigid 5-inn. contest at Warsaw
WARSAW — After a week of what seemed like non-stop rain, Plymouth and Warsaw managed to salvage a five-inning softball game on Friday. Originally scheduled to be a home game for Plymouth, the field at Centennial Park was filled to the brim with 80 percent of the field underwater. Warsaw managed to get their field to be playable, but the weather continued to make conditions more difficult.
With 39 degree weather and constant wind creating even colder conditions, both teams bundled up to face off in the third Northern Lakes Conference game of the season. The whole game was full of big hitting and lots of baserunners and unfortunately Warsaw just had more players cross home plate. The result was a 14-4 loss by the Lady Pilgrims.
Plymouth changed the lineup order, and it seemed to work well because by the end of the second inning, Plymouth was leading Warsaw 4-1. The second inning was a positive start as bases were loaded in the top and Morgan O'Neal blasted a fence-rattling double knocking in Bailey Hatfield, Bailey Brown and Britney Horvath.
As Plymouth took the field again, light snow and small hailstones started falling, and the cold air became frigid. The Pilgrims continued to fight defensively, but Warsaw battled back and regained the lead with strong hits and a three-run home run to make the score 7-4.
Although Plymouth continued hitting the ball, no more runs were plated. Warsaw on the other hand, kept getting hits to fall and continued with two more homers and a walk-off two-RBI single to seal the five inning, 14-4 victory.
The game was a pitcher's worst nightmare because of the weather, but Plymouth's Britney Horvath remained composed in the circle. The Pilgrims played with heart, taking pride in that small victory.
Plymouth turns around today to host a tripleheader against Pioneer and Whiting. Game times for Plymouth are at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.


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Feel like a celebrity and order a VIP service with your tickets. Hungary is a country known for the art of folk dancing. It even boasts its own college dedicated to the study of folk dances, and you can see this expertise firsthand during a 1.5-hour folk performance. You will witness a varied repertoire of music and dance in a unique and exciting venue, as the Danube Folk Ensemble, the Hungarian State Folk Ensemble and Rajkó Folk Ensemble – 3 of the most highly regarded and professional Hungarian folk troupes – perform at the Duna Palota Theater.
Through the dance theater performance, you will witness a fascinating insight into the costumes, music and dance heritage of Hungary and its former empire. Revel at this inspiring and talented collective of artists who have entertained all over the world. Each concert starts at night and consists of two halves of 40 to 45 minutes with a break for intermission.
Founded in 1950s and boasting the longest traditions of all Hungarian folk groups, each ensembles consists of 30 artists. The choreography is based on authentic dances, some collected from isolated villages and dating back hundreds of years.
Please make sure to do the following if you've ordered the pickup, drop off service, in case not please disregard the following points
- Be ready at the reception of your accommodation- 30-40 minutes prior to the start of your activity and please note that the exact time of your pick up is based on the traffic and the popularity of the service on the selected date
- In case you are staying in an accommodation without a reception desk, please wait outside of your accommodation for your chauffeur
- Provide the exact address and name of your accommodation within the city limits of Budapest
- Provide your phone number for the organising company. In case you have not done it during the booking process please send it to the following address: firstname.lastname@example.com
- Keep your phone charged and turned on, on the day of your activity. In case your phone does not have coverage in Hungary and roaming services are not enabled, please make sure to check your emails frequently for updates from the organiser.
- Answer your phone when our colleagues are calling you on the day of your activity or reply to the email sent in case you are not available via phone.
- In order you would not like to use the drop off service we are not able to provide a partial refund for the drop off part of the service.
- You are entitled to a refund in case your complaints reflect the errors of the organising company and in case you have made a phone call to one of the below mentioned phone numbers at the site and time of your issue.
- This service is NOT a private transfer, hence we are not able to guarantee exclusivity during your transfer. We are not able to take responsibility from any delays caused by other guests.
- Please note: Fulfilment of last minute pick-up, drop-off requests received on the day of the program are not guaranteed and based on the available drivers.
Please note: In case the aforementioned conditions are not met, we are not liable to provide a refund
In case you have any queries regarding your pick up, drop off service please call the following phone number: +361 317 1377
In case of EMERGENCIES, call the following number: +3630 659 7007


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So? Both Corel and Nintendo produce closed source software. What's the common goal for both?
KDE is a Free Culture project. Hence, KDE is not only interested in developing free source code, but also improving other free aspects of life. That means working with Wikimedia http://ev.kde.org/announcements/2008-04-04-kde-and-wikimedia.php but also helping free file formats. That's why KDE was/is part in developing Open Document. That OTOH also means that non-free file formats are not that important to KDE. In case of Flash: Supporting Flash/swf has lower priority than SVG+JavaScript.
Yes, it does. That's why it's supporting free file formats.
But -- you may be pleased to hear it -- KDE is part of FreeDesktop.org and FreeDesktop.org in turn develops swfdec.
BTW: "greater LINUX Community"? That community is too small for KDE. As I said above, KDE sees itself as a Free Culture project. That -- on a lower level -- means that not only Linux is important to KDE but also FreeBSD, OpenSolaris, and other operating systems.
Edited 2008-08-30 00:36 UTC
there are huge numbers of common interests between various projects in the F/OSS sphere; KDE can't work on every single one of them, and right now we are not well equipped to work on gnash as we don't have anyone around who has the knowledge, desire and time to do so. thankfully the gnash project is doing what they can, just as we are.
i do hope to find time to wrap gnash in libplasma so we can mix gnash containers with other fun on the Plasma canvas ... but that's the extent of plans that i'm aware of.
btw, commenting on a story about an absolutely huge and important project that's filling an topical area that nobody else is producing workable solutions for with "why aren't you doing something this completely other topic?" is kind of lame. =)


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Butterfly Pendant
Every fabric button is handmade, with love, by Rachel O. Pendant
measures just under 1 inch wide. Fabric buttons are made of 100% cotton,
hand stretched (by me) over an aluminum dome. Pendant hangs from an 18
inch bronze tone chain with lobster clasp. Photos of solid white button
pendants are included for size reference ONLY. Ruler and model are NOT
included. You will receive one pendant as seen in the first photo. Due
to the handmade nature of your necklace, it will vary ever so slightly
from the one seen in the photo, but will be equally awesome. Pendants
look their best when cared for properly. Please avoid getting them wet
(remove before shower/swim), put on after applying makeup, and you will
be able to enjoy them for a long time. Check out my listings for other
super(duper) designs and matching earrings.


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"Anything that gets them that involved and that excited and makes them want to go and work some more has just got to be a good thing."
Dana Vazzana, an associate professor of mathematics at Truman State University, integrates Mathematica into every course she teaches. She says using Mathematica with her students creates a dynamic classroom where students gain a deeper understanding of concepts and richer insights into real-world applications of mathematics.
"Mathematica can allow them to get over the algebra and see the theory and actually look at the graphs and say, 'Hey, okay, this is what's going on,'" says Vazzana. "So it's really nice to be able to explain the theory and have them visualize it in such an effective way with the different graphs."
More information:


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Canadians have little confidence in either the Conservatives or Liberals to manage the economy, balance the books or reflect their values, a new poll suggests.
Indeed, more Canadians picked "None of the above" and "Don't know" than chose any federal party on those key issues, according to a Harris-Decima survey conducted for The Canadian Press.
Pollster Allan Gregg said the findings are "an indictment" of Canada's political parties and help explain why support remains tepid for both the Conservatives and the Liberals.
Key findings, which show Don't Know/Don't Care is riding a wave. Wonder if she/he will force an election? Maybe some clarity next week during scrums?:
Asked which party is best able to balance the budget in five years, half of respondents answered either "Don't know" or "None."
Asked which party can be trusted to manage the economy, 36 per cent said "Don't know" or "None"
As to which party holds values closest to their own, 27 per cent said "Don't know" or "None"
In response, Dmitri Soudas indicated the Conservatives would run attack ads detailing "Don't know's" inability to take a firm stand and "None's" alleged former anarchist ties. The Liberals are listening, the NDP says "None" shouldn't be allowed in any debate.
On the plus side, if any party could actually manage to resonate, there is an audience just waiting. Honestly, I think we have reached a new low point in federal politics.


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Learn more about the impact of digital technologies on plant operations.
As a showcase for the most innovative thinking on high-performance business, Outlook focuses on six core themes: Redefining Competitiveness, Digital Disruption, Global Operating Model, Open Innovation, Sustainability and Workforce of the Future. We feature original content devoted to these topics as well as a selection of unique insights offered by professionals throughout Accenture.


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Dallas Willard
Influential Christian philosopher taught at USC for 47 years
Dallas Willard, 77, an influential Christian philosopher who taught at USC for 47 years and chaired the philosophy department in the early 1980s, died Wednesday in Woodland Hills, the university said. He had cancer.
In "The Great Omission," "Renovation of the Heart," "The Divine Conspiracy" and other books, Willard wrote about spiritual formation and Christian discipleship for the general reader, often giving practical advice for living a Christian life in a secular world.
His academic works included translations of 20th century philosopher Edmund Husserl from German into English and "Logic and the Objectivity of Knowledge" (1984).
Dallas Albert Willard was born Sept. 4, 1935, in Buffalo, Mo. He received a bachelor's degree in psychology from Tennessee Temple College and another in philosophy and religion from Baylor University before earning his doctorate in philosophy from the University of Wisconsin in 1964.
He began his teaching career at Wisconsin before arriving at USC in 1965. He was chairman of USC's philosophy department from 1982 to 1985 and retired in 2012.
In 1955, Willard married Jane Lakes and she became a marriage and family therapist; they had two children. For a time Willard and his wife lived with undergraduates in student housing as part of USC's Faculty in Residence program designed to foster intellectual stimulation and socialization. In 1976 he received the outstanding faculty member award for contributions to student life.
Jack Butler
NFL Hall of Famer played for Pittsburgh Steelers
Jack Butler, 85, who helped revolutionize the way cornerbacks played in the NFL during his Hall of Fame career with the Pittsburgh Steelers, died Saturday in Pittsburgh after a lengthy battle with a staph infection, according to his son John.
One of the NFL's top defensive backs of the 1950s, Butler was a 6-foot-1, 200-pound wrecking ball known for his physical play and uncanny knack for getting to the ball. He intercepted 52 passes from 1951 to 1959, including a league-high 10 in 1957. He made the Pro Bowl four times and was chosen first-team All-NFL three times before a serious knee injury in 1959 ended his career.
When he retired, he was second in NFL history in interceptions and still ranks 26th overall, tied with Champ Bailey among others.
Reflecting on his career, Butler acknowledged that he was able to get away with the kind of contact with receivers that today's defensive backs only dream about.
"You could bump 'em and push 'em and do things," Butler said. "You could grab on to his jersey so he doesn't get far from you. You could hold on a little bit. Now they're all over you. It's hard to do anything today."
After retiring, Butler became a prominent scout who worked closely with the Steelers for more than 40 years. During one stretch from 1969 to 1974, his insight helped Pittsburgh draft nine players who would all precede him in the Hall of Fame, including Terry Bradshaw and Joe Greene. The group became the core of the franchise for the better part of a decade, helping Pittsburgh win four Super Bowls in the span of six years.
Butler was born Nov. 12, 1927, in Pittsburgh and played wide receiver at St. Bonaventure University. Undrafted, he signed as a free agent with the Steelers in 1951 and soon switched to defense.
He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame last summer after being elected by the seniors committee.
Fredrick McKissack
Prolific author wrote about African American history
Fredrick McKissack, 73, who with his wife wrote more than 100 books, mainly for children and about African American history, died April 28 in Chesterfield, Mo., a suburb of St. Louis. He had been in failing health and on kidney dialysis for four years, said his wife, Patricia.
He was a contractor and she was a teacher and children's book editor when — frustrated with their careers — they began to collaborate as storytellers in the early 1980s. Noticing a dearth of African American titles, they wrote such award-winners as "A Long Hard Journey: The Story of the Pullman Porter" (1990) and "Sojourner Truth: Ain't I a Woman?" (1993).
Although Patricia did most of the writing while Frederick devoted himself to research, they considered themselves a writing team. They wrote a series of biographies for children called "Great African Americans" and about such subjects as the Underground Railroad, the Tuskegee Airmen, baseball's Negro Leagues and the civil rights movement.
Frederick Lemuel McKissack was born Aug. 12, 1939, in Nashville. His father and grandfather were architects.
He served in the Marines from 1957 to 1960 and earned a bachelor's degree in engineering from Tennessee State University in 1964. He married Patricia the same year and moved to St. Louis. He worked as a civil engineer for city and federal governments until 1974 and then ran his own general contracting company until 1982.
They had three sons, including twins who were the inspiration for an early children's book, "Who Is Who?" (1983). Patricia plans to finish the couple's last book, tentatively titled "Jump Rope," about the songs children sing on the playground.
Times staff and wire reports


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Beaufort County will pay additional design costs on the S.C. 170 widening project, which is moving forward again with a $25 million grant from the state Transportation Infrastructure Bank.
Thomas & Hutton Engineering Co. was awarded an additional $197,000 last week by County Council. The amount will be added to the Thomas & Hutton contract of more than $1.4 million for the project.
The county engineering department recommended the company's request to be paid $68,815 more for services on Phase 1 (U.S. 278 to Bluffton Parkway) and $129,200 more on Phase 2 (Bluffton Parkway to the roundabout at S.C. 46).
County officials reviewed Thomas & Hutton billings from December and January "and found them to be reasonable," according to a memo from County Engineer Bob Klink.
The additional engineering work was for right of way acquisition and design updates, according to the memo.
The S.C. 170 widening project has long been delayed by a recession-related decline in revenues from a penny sales tax approved by voters in a 2006 referendum.
County Council reviewed road project priorities and moved S.C. 170 to the bottom of a list that includes widening S.C. 802 and a building a bridge from Port Royal to Lady's Island, widening U.S. 278 from Simmonsville Road to S.C. 170 and completion of the Bluffton Parkway.
County Council Chairman Weston Newton in December asked the S.C. Department of Transportation to release part of an $86 million grant that had been approved but not distributed from its Infrastructure Bank.
The state DOT announced the $25 million grant for S.C. 170 in February. County officials have said it will allow the $31 million project to move forward. About $6 million in sales tax money already has been spent on the S.C. 170 project for right-of-way acquisition and design.
The state grant also will free sales tax funds to help pay for a dual-flyover intersection near the Moss Creek/Buckingham Landing junction of Bluffton Parkway Phase 5A and U.S. 278.
Construction of Phase 5A began in December 2010 and is scheduled to be completed this year, but plans for its intersection with U.S. 278 were uncertain and unfunded.
The county also approved an additional $162,235 for relocation of Palmetto Electric Cooperative utility infrastructure. Three Palmetto Electric "feeders" at Tanger 2 Outlet, Buckingham and Hilton Head National will be relocated to accommodate the parkway route.


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By ,
Published January 08, 2015
Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski sounded like the only person at Littlejohn Coliseum not surprised at Clemson's upset victory.
The 16th-ranked Blue Devils entered the week with their lowest ranking since November 2007. Expect another new low next week after Duke's 72-59 loss to the Tigers on Saturday.
Krzyzewski says his young team is far from the juggernaut expected because of his NCAA championship reputation and the addition of prized freshman Jabari Parker. The Blue Devils had their first 1-2 in Atlantic Coast Conference in seven seasons.
"We're a very young team and we get predicted to do something based on me being old," said Krzyzewski, a Hall of Famer who's won four NCAA titles since starting at Duke.
"That's the way it is. And we have to measure up to something we probably weren't good enough to do to begin with."
The Blue Devils certainly weren't at Clemson. They had season lows in field goal shooting (33.8 percent), baskets (20), points in a game and in a half (22).
When it came time to make critical plays, it was Clemson's K.J. McDaniels, Jaron Blossomgame and Landry Nnoko who did it instead of Blue Devils stars in Rodney Hood and Parker.
It was Duke's second road loss in a week after falling 79-77 at Notre Dame to open league play last Saturday.
"We're not a good team right now," Krzyzewski said. "We're a small team and we need to make up for it in other ways. We're not some powerhouse."
Blossomgame had career highs of 14 points and 14 rebounds, plus hit two critical 3-pointers for the Tigers.
Blossomgame was one of the Tigers' most highly regarded recruits two years ago, but missed his freshman season after breaking a leg. He had a second surgery this summer and the 6-foot-7 freshman has taken his time this season finding his way.
"This is a big day for me, my breakout game," Blossomgame said. "I've had a rough start, but I'm trying to get back into the flow of things."
His big shots helped turn Duke's 10-point first-half lead into a Clemson runaway.
Blossomgame's 3-pointer with 9:27 left put the Tigers (11-4, 2-1 ACC) out front 52-50 for the first time since the game's early moments. With the game tied at 54-all moments later, Blossomgame struck from the left corner to give Clemson the lead for good.
Quinn Cook's three with 6:20 to go cut Clemson's lead to 59-57, but the Blue Devils (12-4, 1-2) managed only two foul shots the rest of the way to end a five-game win streak over the Tigers.
K.J. McDaniels had 24 points and 10 rebounds for Clemson. Landry Nnoko also had a double-double with 10 points and 13 rebounds. Nnoko had four of the team's seven blocks while McDaniels had the rest.
Krzyzewski said Blossomgame's shooting "definitely turned the tide in their favor."
Hood led the Blue Devils with 20 points. Parker, who had Blossomgame guarding him much of the game, scored 15 points, only five after halftime.
Clemson coach Brad Brownell was angry with his team at halftime because they didn't attack the basket the way he'd hoped.
"He kind of got at me and made more aggressive than I had been," said Rod Hall, who had 11 points in the second half for Clemson.
Hall pushed the pace right after halftime, scoring on three driving layups as Clemson cut into what had been a 10-point Duke lead.
Duke also lost its shooting touch. The Blue Devils made just eight of 32 shots in the second half and could not keep up with Clemson's defense.
"The longer the game went on I think we convinced ourselves that we could win the game," Brownell said.
Blossomgame bettered his career marks of nine points set against Massachusetts and nine rebounds set against Davidson, both games coming last month at the Charleston Classic.
Parker appeared ready for a big game, hitting a pair of 3-pointers and collecting 10 points in the first six minutes as the Blue Devils moved in front 15-11.
The Blue Devils' methodical style gradually pushed the lead to 36-26 when Clemson went without a field goal for nearly six minutes late in the period. Duke was up 37-31 at the break before the Tigers took control in the second half.


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Over the past couple of years I've received numerous emails from readers with questions on the places I visit – from advice on where to stay, to what to do and how to make a stay unique. Most folks – including myself – need travel direction and ideas on where to begin exploring a country. So I've decided to help my readers out by putting together brief country guides – a lay of the land, if you will, to help you figure out what part of the country to visit according to your personal interests. No two visits are ever the same – and nor should they be. These guides are meant as starting points and I hope you find them useful in launching your own solo (or couple) adventure.
The first destination guide: Belize. It's the country I get the most questions about and probably one of the least known. It's also one I know fairly well now, after spending three months there as a Road Warrior (writer/blogger and photographer in-residence) for the Belize Tourism Board and an additional two and a half months independently.
Belize Travel Guide
'Caribbean jewel' in Central America
It's easy to overlook Belize. It's in a small corner facing the Caribbean sea and next to its larger, tourist-popular neighbors Mexico and Guatemala. Not to mention, most people think all there is to do there is diving or fishing, or that it's expensive.
Belize does have the second longest barrier reef in the world after Australia's, just a short hour and a half boat ride away from >> Continue reading


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MADISON, Wis. (AP) - A man who wears thong underwear and a cape while riding his scooter through Wisconsin's capital city may be a strange sight. But police say he isn't breaking any laws.
Earlier this month, staff at John F. Kennedy Elementary School in Madison called authorities after the man rode by in his unmentionables while students were walking to a bus.
Police spokesman Joel DeSpain tells the Wisconsin State Journal (http://bit.ly/12BOaeP ) that a sergeant had a chat with the person police call Thong Cape Scooter Man. He admitted he used poor judgment in going past the school but said he did it unintentionally.
The city attorney told police the man broke no laws.
So it seems Thong Cape Scooter Man is free to ride on.
(Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)


text:
Gucci Mane (Feat. Big Bank Black & OG Boo Dity) - Squad Car
Off Trap God 2 mixtape
Directed by Cricket
Posted by @Worldstarvids
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text:
Consensus Report
Realizing the Energy Potential of Methane Hydrate for the United States (2010)Board on Earth Sciences and Resources
Each report is produced by a committee of experts selected by the Academy to address a particular statement of task and is subject to a rigorous, independent peer review; while the reports represent views of the committee, they also are endorsed by the Academy. Learn more on our expert consensus reports.
Natural gas, composed mostly of methane, is the cleanest of all the fossil fuels, emitting 25-50% less carbon dioxide than either oil or coal for each unit of energy produced. Methane hydrate, a naturally occurring solid form of methane and water found in Arctic permafrost areas and along most of the world's offshore continental margins, is a potentially enormous and as yet untapped source of methane. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is leading the national effort to conduct research on the potential of augmenting U.S. energy supplies with methane from methane hydrate, Studies supported through the DOE have advanced understanding of how to identify, drill, and produce methane from methane hydrate and have generated optimism that producing the methane is technically feasible. This report evaluates the status of the DOE program and identifies the key questions for future research.
Key Messages
- Although several nations, including the United States, have extensive, ongoing methane hydrate research programs, considerably more information is needed about this "unconventional" energy resource before commercial production can be realized.
- Experimental and modeling research supported by the Program has added to the ability to evaluate methane hydrate resources and to help predict how methane hydrate will behave during production.
- In light of the scientific challenges posed by methane hydrate for the international research community, The Department of Energy's Methane Hydrate Research and Development Program has supported and managed a high-quality research portfolio that has enabled significant progress toward long-term goals.
- Program management has been consistent and effective during the past five years, having worked to increase the success of the research it funds, supported education and training of young researchers, and enhanced collaborative efforts with other research entities.
- The Program has strengthened the transparency of its activities, notably through implementation of a peer-review process for ongoing research projects and increased communication with the public and the global research community.
- To better meet its goals of assessing the potential of the long-term production of methane from methane hydrate, DOE should aim to expand future research in several areas: (1) the designing and demonstrating of production technologies in the field that can sustain the flow of methane gas from methane hydrate deposits over long periods of time; (2) evaluating and predicting the environmental and safety issues related to production of methane from methane hydrate; (3) reducing the uncertainty that remains in locating and identifying the size of methane hydrate deposits, including the potential volume of methane that might be
- To support the design of production technologies, the report recommends long-term field production tests in different locations, as well as monitoring the behavior of methane hydrate deposits and surrounding sediments before, during, and after production.


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The stories you have the opportunity to read here are the very personal accounts of men and women who have not only survived cancer but are thriving after a cancer diagnosis. They are part of our community; they may be your neighbors, your friends or your family. We are very grateful that they chose to share their very personal cancer journey with us.
Each of them followed his or her own path on their journey. And each has a very personal story to tell. If there is a common thread it is that their message can inform us, teach us and inspire us. Their stories may even move us to action when it comes to things like preventive care, screening and healthier lifestyles. And that's something they all agree would be the best gift they can share.


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August 17, 2013
First, let me say that I think the world of Glenn Beck. He is on my Mt. Rushmore of Conservative Heroes along with Ronald Reagan, Rush Limbaugh and William F. Buckley Jr. as the four men who have done the most to secure the republic in my lifetime. One of the things that I love about Glenn is that he loves to learn as much maybe even more than he loves to teach. As a matter of fact, while I think he approaches teaching as a duty, I suspect he actually finds it, at times, burdensome.
The Saturday before the reelection of Barack Obama, my wife and I had the chance to speak to Glenn Beck for a few moments and found him to be incredibly kind and very humble. Since then many things have changed in the country and I thought to myself, if I had that chance again, what would I ask?
I do think Glenn is an honest man and so I don't think that he'd take the following as a challenge to his character; at least that is my hope. So here goes:
ONE: If Gandhi or MLK Jr. were Chinese would we even know their name?
I've heard you say on a number of occasions that we should emulate MLK Jr. and Gandhi in their ideas of peaceful resistance to tyranny, but Glenn, isn't it true that these two guys led successful movements because of who their opponents were even more than who they themselves were? In other words, if Gandhi and Dr. King were in Tiananmen or even Tahrir Square leading peaceful protests isn't it more likely that we'd know them like we know "tank-guy," as a nameless/faceless/voiceless victim?
Don't take my word for it, take a trip for yourself to Gandhi's house and regard the banner on the front veranda. The one that sports the quote from Bertrand Russell:
"It is doubtful that the efforts of the Mahatma would have succeeded except that he was appealing to the conscience of a Christianized people".
When the evangelist, Ravi Zacharias saw this sign he was stunned by the irony that "the home of Gandhi, the pantheist, displayed a banner quoting Russell, the atheist, who said the former's efforts would not have succeeded save for the theists."
Now tell me dear Glenn, do you believe that Barack Obama, Valerie Jarrett and Eric Holder are closer to the worldview of the British Colonialists, the American segregationists or the Red Chinese and the Muslim Brotherhood? I'll hang up now and wait for your answer.
TWO: What would you think of an Austrian or German man who in 1934 fantasized about killing his "leader?"
Would he be a paranoid, homicidal conspiracy nut or a visionary who just saw things quicker and clearer than Dietrich Bonhoeffer? What if he thought the NAZI Party was not a legitimate party; was an enemy to the motherland and needed to be fought against with all possible contingencies? And what would be the difference between that man in 1934 and Dietrich Bonhoeffer in 1941?
Simply put, do you disagree with John Adams when he wrote in A Defence of the Constitutions of Government, "The right of a nation to kill a tyrant, in cases of necessity, can no more be doubted, than to hang a robber, or kill a flea. But killing one tyrant only makes way for worse, unless the people have sense, spirit and honesty enough to establish and support a constitution guarded at all points against the tyranny of the one, the few, and the many."
THREE: If Samuel Adams, Patrick Henry and Thomas Jefferson were here today, what would they be saying, writing, planning and doing?
I think it's doubtful that they'd be going to a "Tea-Party" golf outing. I think these were more serious men. These were the sons of Issachar. Maybe you can ask David Barton – off the record of course. And while you're over at David's you can ask him about the real Thomas Jefferson, not the one that you've carefully crafted as a justification for being AWOL on the moral issues of our day. Or to put it as a question:
FOUR: How's your leg mending and did you get your wallet back?
When it comes to the Rainbow Crusaders and the scourge of abortion, Glenn is remarkably detached. Somehow this is a Libertarian value I suppose and that's his prerogative but it does drive me a bit batty when he implies that our founders in general felt the same way, and that Jefferson in particular would be, I don't know, to the Left of Penn Jillette on the issue.
When it comes to same-sex marriage Glenn consistently downplays sexual anarchy as a threat and quotes Jefferson as saying if "It neither picks my pocket nor breaks my leg" then it is apparently not a serious issue. The problem with that is that Beck cannot possibly believe that.
Glenn is too smart to believe that! Not to mention his close relationship to David Barton who could easily "straighten" him out on the issue. For that matter, Rabbi Lapin's lesson on Baal should have had Glenn "butt-shifting" over his self-justification of apathy in the face of the greatest religious freedom issue of our day. You see, Glenn has to completely "butch" history and reality to arrive there.
The quote by Jefferson was about atheists and pantheists, not about sexual perversion. The full quote is, "The legitimate powers of government extend to such acts only as are injurious to others. But it does me no injury for my neighbor to say there are twenty gods, or no God. It neither picks my pocket nor breaks my leg."
Surely a historian of Glenn's caliber knows that the guy who wrote a bill calling for the emasculation of homosexuals would probably side with those who believe that the issue is one that may break a few legs and pick a few pockets. That's right; Jefferson, like Washington, was convinced that homosexuality was a serious affront with serious consequences that shouldn't be ignored.
I wonder if Catholic Charities would agree with Glenn, that the gay mafia hasn't "broken their leg?" I wonder if the photographers, the bakers the bed and breakfast owners who are being sued for not dancing to the tune of the alphabet mafia would think that their pocket has been picked?
A movement that exists by monitoring businesses and individuals for their beliefs and then threatens their livelihood certainly fits the Jefferson quote. A movement that has forced Michael Savage and Dr. Laura off the air for merely holding an opposite view is certainly a threat to free speech and the free exercise of religion. Can't Glenn tell the difference between his gay friends and the "monster in our midst" that is the Gay-K-K?
While atheism and pantheism will never cause the doors of my church to be padlocked, the hate speech legislation sponsored and spurred on by the sin syndicate most certainly will. By that time, do you think Glenn will take notice? Maybe if he inclines his ear more to Pat and Stu or Rabbi Lapin and David Barton than he does to the Liberaltarians. Time will tell.
FIVE: Are you hiring?
This may sound self-serving but my radio show would rock your network, pal! The Parson and The Cleaner at www.uncommonshow.com! When do we start, boss?
Pastor: Grace Gospel Fellowship, Bensenville;
Host: IN THE ARENA; UNCOMMON SENSE
email@example.com; 847.890.2443


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Yesterday marked a year since our son, Chase's injury.
Ironically, and providentially, the day before, Chase was extensively evaluated and determined to be fully recovered.
This past week, my husband and son flew to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for an assessment at the University Of Pittsburgh Medical Center Sports ConcussionProgram. Through an intensive series of tests and evaluations, a team of six specialists examined Chase thoroughly over a period of two full days.
The conclusion these physicians reached will always make me weep in gratitude. This final determination will forever remind me of how far we have come.
Chase had completely healed.
The past year has been a struggle, but a good one. It has been full of worry and angst, yet also full of joy and abundant blessings. I have grown, my son has grown – our family has grown. While the lessons have been many with details we will continue to share, the summary of it all can be best written as this:
I've learned that I can't parent in fear because Chase can't flourish in it. But I can parent in faith and Chase can walk in it.
That result alone was worth every step of our journey.


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Style # 206448
Texturize your 9-to-5 with this bebe button up blouse, features metallic trim detail and crisp drape. Try it with suiting pieces during the week and with a pair of skinny jeans for a polished off-duty style.
- 67% cotton, 27% nylon, 3% metallic, 3% spandex.
- Center back to hem: 24" (61 cm).
- Dry clean.
- Imported.
- Model is 5'9" and is wearing a US size S.


text: Tips for Renegotiating Land Leases September 24, 2013 01:20 AM Tweet TAGS: Marketing, Overseas December 18, 2014 By University News Release Email Farmers often want to finalize next year's lease agreements as early as possible, while landlords might wait until closer to this year's termination deadline. Now that harvest is under way, many farmers and landlords might be negotiating, renegotiating or terminating lease agreements for the 2014 crop year. Farmers like to know as early as possible which land they will rent the following year and under what terms so they can make fertilizer, seed, fuel and other input decisions immediately following harvest. But landlords, who face a Nov. 30 deadline for lease terminations in the state of Indiana, sometimes want to wait until closer to the deadline so they have a better idea of what farm incomes might look like in the coming year. "Tenants like to know by September about land to lease for 2014 if they don't already have a lease arrangement for a particular farm or parcel," said Gerry Harrison, Purdue Extension agricultural economist. "However, a landlord might want to wait until November if there is doubt about the lease terms for 2013. The outlook for 2014 in November might be much different than in September of the current year." One lease arrangement that might suit both parties is a flexible lease. In this type of agreement, terms are included to address actual variations in crop yields or prices in determining a final rent payment, Harrison said. If a landlord or tenant is uncertain about continuing with the current terms of a lease arrangement, such as the rent rate, Harrison said it's best to start renegotiations with a notice to quit, or terminate a lease. "From litigation in Indiana in 2012, it would be careless to deal with anything other than a written notice, properly delivered, to end the current lease and to open up negotiation for new lease terms," he said. "To give notice to terminate an existing lease does not need to imply the tenant and landowner can't reach a new agreement, and tenants who have a lease in place for the coming year might be wise to revisit the arrangement with the landlord. "If there is no more than a comment or oral notice that a new rent or other new lease terms need to be agreed to, the parties to the lease might find that they are under the same terms for the 2014 lease." Check your state's rules about lease termination. According to Harrison, both tenants and landlords can protect themselves by consulting farm attorneys to end current lease agreements and set up new ones. Back to news


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TheHammer24 wrote:mac5155 wrote: I bet you didn't know but FedEx actually becomes less profitable the higher their volume is, because they simply can't handle it all, so they have to rent additional trucks, pay additional people, and run longer hours. With infrastructure upgrades, sure they could probably do it. Just because they arent putting your envelope in your mailbox doesn't mean they arent delivering it?
I find this very hard to believe. Sounds like their costs go up, but that doesn't mean their profit decreases. Otherwise, FedEx would want less business? That is bizarre.
They plan to run at full capacity for the majority of the time. There are times when they are over capacity, which results in them having to purchase transportation, workers, etc. outside of normal operating budgets.


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Florida Homeowner's Association Sues Resident For Critical Blog Comments, Seeks Identity Of Other Commenters
from the but-of-course dept
And the thing is, every time I ever hear anything about HOAs, it always seems to involve some similar crazy story. A few months back, we wrote about an HOA president in Indiana going ballistic with bogus legal threats towards pretty much anyone who criticized him. And now, here's a story out of Naples, Florida, where an HOA for "Fiddler's Creek" is using homeowners' fees to sue one of their own homeowners, a resident named James Schutt, because he made some comments the HOA board members don't like on a blog about the community.
You can see the actual comments in the original lawsuit. I read them over and my first reaction was "they're suing over that?!" Basically, it sounds like a typical HOA fight. Schutt isn't thrilled with how the HOA is being run, and he accuses them of failing their fiduciary responsibility, and he feels that some of the things the HOA pays for -- such as management -- are excessive and possibly corrupt. You see these kinds of things all the time. Even if they're not exactly true, they're standard rhetorical hyperbole that happens online. Get over it and move on. Instead, the HOA sued.
It seems pretty clear that this is a SLAPP lawsuit, designed to shut up Schutt and potentially other critics. Schutt is being defended by Marc Randazza (a name many of you will hopefully recognize) who let us know that the HOA is seeking to depose the blogger and are trying to "out" other anonymous commenters on the blog (to clarify, Schutt is not the blog owner, but was merely a commenter). The fact that the HOA is now trying to out other anonymous commenters certainly adds weight to the idea that this is a SLAPP suit designed to shut up critics. The blogger is pushing back but the anonymous commenters themselves might want to find some legal representation to protect their own rights as well, and to make sure that their identities aren't disclosed due to baseless threats that seem designed solely to create a chilling effect on critics of the HOA.
Did I mention that I no longer live anywhere near an HOA... and I have fantastic neighbors who all seem to get along splendidly with each other?


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Editor's note: LZ Granderson, who writes a weekly column for CNN.com, was named journalist of the year by the National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association and is a 2011 Online Journalism Award finalist for commentary. He is a senior writer and columnist for ESPN the Magazine and ESPN.com. Follow him on Twitter: @locs_n_laughs
(CNN) -- Over the past few days we've heard a lot of criticism directed at the National Football League after the arrest of a Dallas Cowboy player on an intoxication manslaughter charge. And justifiably so: A 25-year-old father-to-be who was riding in the player's car is dead.
But we can't fall into the trap of making this conversation all about the NFL or even professional athletes. Doing that is a cop-out.
Legendary country singer Randy Travis was arrested this year on a driving while intoxicated charge.
South Carolina state Rep. Ted Vick was arrested this year on a charge of drunken driving.
Florida's Jacksonville Sheriff's Office said Joshua Postorino, a Georgia Tech assistant basketball coach, was "swerving all over the road" before being arrested last week on a driving under the influence charge.
We can try to make this conversation about NFL players -- but of the nearly 2,000 men who suit up per season, 14 DUI arrests are made, according to USA Today. That equates to a .7% percent rate. The rate for men in the general popul ation ages 20 to 29, the age bracket of most NFL players, is twice that. Meanwhile, men 21 to 34 are responsible for 42% of all DUI deaths.
Become a fan of CNNOpinionStay up to date on the latest opinion, analysis and conversations through social media. Join us at Facebook/CNNOpinion and follow us @CNNOpinion on Twitter. We welcome your ideas and comments.
This issue isn't about football players. The MetLife Stadium doesn't stop serving alcohol at the beginning of the third quarter because officials are afraid the players are going to try to drive home drunk.
If we want to use this tragedy in Dallas to talk about DUIs, then perhaps we need to be more focused on the men who watch the games, not play them. The stats suggest the average guy probably doesn't need to go the full six degrees of separation before finding a connection with another guy who got behind the wheel of a car when he shouldn't have.
Jerry Brown's family praying for Brent
Attorney: Cowboy 'not doing well'
When I look back at my 20s, I know I've been lucky more than once, and I thank God that his grace covered me when my pride put me -- and others -- in harm's way.
Too proud to say I've had too much to drink because men are supposed to be able to handle our liquor.
Too proud to say I need a ride home, because that would be asking for help -- and men don't like to do that.
Too proud to admit I might've been out of control, even though being out of control is the main side effect of excessive drinking.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says men are much more likely than women to drink excessively and drive at high speeds. Men average about 12.5 binge drinking episodes a year; Women average 2.7.
And yet we want to make this entire conversation about sports, when this is no more a sports story than a rerun of "Sex and the City."
Last year Alan Hale, a state representative and bar owner from Montana, got on the House floor and advocated for a repeal of all DUI laws because they hurt small businesses and "they're destroying a way of life." FYI: There is no professional sports team in Montana.
Our culture promotes a casual attitude about intoxication -- from "The Hangover" to Jamie Foxx's Grammy-winning "Blame It" -- and then gets all pious when something bad happens because of alcohol.
If we want to have a grownup conversation about DUIs, that's where it should start: Otherwise we're just sucking up oxygen.
Does this mean the NFL should ignore drunken driving arrests of its players? Of course not.
But the CDC says adults got behind the wheel drunk an estimated 112 million times in 2010 -- nearly 300,000 times a day -- and that 81% of all drunken drivers are men. So whatever thoughts we may be harboring about athletes who drink and drive, it would be wise to extend those feelings far beyond the realm of sports.
Nearly 11,000 people are killed each year because of alcohol-impaired driving. But since 1998, there have only been three NFL players who have been suspected of having killed someone because of driving drunk.
You can do the rest of the math from there.
Follow us on Twitter @CNNOpinion.
Join us on Facebook/CNNOpinion.
The opinions in this commentary are solely those of LZ Granderson.


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The DELANO SBC6 HE/S-4 is a no compromise, strictly highend quad-coil humbucking pickup, that offers you great, classy sixstring bass tone throughout the entire range of your instrument and beyond.
We were pretty happy with the performance of our standard SBC6 HE/S, but we wanted to integrate the option of an additional single coil style string sensing pattern, with no hum, off course. But what you get is far more. When properly positioned, you can get for example two different JB type™ (60ies or 70ies)single coil voicings out of the very same SBC6 HE/S-4 bridge pickup, on top of our dead-on humbucker sound. Can you imagine what a pair of DELANOs might do for your tone?
More Information
● - Quad-Coil Humbucker
When mixing Delano pickups you must use two pickups with the same icon.
- Length = 4.53"(115mm) Width = 1.50"(38mm)
Please Note:Delano supplies black screws with their pickups. If you require chrome or gold screws, we carry them on our pickup screws page.


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The VDRL test is a screening test for syphilis. It measures substances, called antibodies, that your body may produce if you have come in contact with the bacteria that causes syphilis. This bacteria is called Treponema pallidum.
The test is similar to the newer
Alternative Names
Venereal disease research laboratory test
How the test is performed
The test is usually done using a blood sample. It can also be done using a sample of spinal fluid. This article discusses the blood test.
A blood sample is needed. For information on how this is done, see:
How the test will feel
When the needle is inserted to draw blood, you may feel moderate pain, or only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.
Why the test is performed
This test is used to screen for syphilis. Your health care provider may order this test if you have signs and symptoms of a sexually transmitted illness (STI).
Syphilis screening is a routine part of prenatal care during pregnancy. Several states also require screening for syphilis prior to obtaining a marriage license.
Normal Values
A negative test is normal. It means that no antibodies to syphilis have been seen in your blood sample.
The screening test is most likely to be positive in the secondary and latent stages of syphilis. This test may give a false-negative result during early- and late-stage syphilis. This test must be confirmed with another blood test to make the diagnosis of syphilis.
Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Some labs use different measurements or test different samples. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.
What abnormal results mean
A positive test result may mean you have syphilis. If the test is positive, the next step is to confirm the results with an FTA-ABS test, which is a more specific syphilis test.
The VDRL tests ability to detect syphilis depends on the stage of the disease. The tests sensitivity to detect syphilis nears 100% during the middle stages; it is less sensitive during the earlier and later stages.
Some conditions may cause a false positive test, including:
- Lyme disease
- Certain types of pneumonia
- Malaria
- Systemic lupus erythematosus
What the risks are
Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.
Other risks associated with having blood drawn are slight but may include:
- Excessive bleeding
- Fainting or feeling light-headed
- Hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)
- Infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)
Special considerations
The body does not always produce antibodies specifically in response to the syphilis bacteria, so this test is not always accurate.
Tramont EC. Treponema pallidum (syphilis). In: Mandell GL, Bennett JE, Dolin R, eds. Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases. 7th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Elsevier Churchill Livingstone; 2009:chap 238.
Workowski KA, Berman S; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Sexually transmitted diseases treatment guidelines, 2010. MMWR Recomm Rep. 2010;59:1-110.
Review Date:
Reviewed By:
Jatin M. Vyas, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor in Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Assistant in Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Bethanne Black, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.