tony blankley steelers pittsburgh steelers charles barkley beyonce troy polamalu james harrison
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
MOG not trying to sell itself: CEO (Reuters)
[unable to retrieve full-text content]Reuters - Digital music start-up MOG isn't actively trying to sell itself, its chief executive said on Tuesday, responding to a report that said his company is struggling in the competitive music subscription business.
Video: Santorum looks for Democrats? support
Stricken Costa Allegra being towed to safety through pirate zone
??Two tugboats arrived on Tuesday to assist a powerless Italian cruise ship, currently being towed by a fishing vessel to a nearby Seychelles island in the Indian Ocean, according to company officials.
Source: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3036697/vp/46562791#46562791
libya map libya map world series game 2 world series game 2 libya bay area news lettuce recall
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Chicora Real Estate is now handling sales and marketing for L&K ...
PRESS RELEASE: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Horry County Coldwell Banker Chicora Real Estate is pleased to announce that we are now handling the Sales & Marketing for L & K Properties of Myrtle Beach, LLC for the community at Sommerset Cove at The Gates, located in Myrtle Beach off of Holmestown Road. L & K Properties will be building approximately 18 single family, three and four bedroom homes with two car garages, from 1800 heated square feet and larger, priced from $199,900. These homes offer various interior layouts to choose from or can be customized to suite your needs. Some of the standard features include ? smooth ceilings, granite counter tops, solid maple wood cabinets with dovetail drawers, hardwood and tile floors, stainless steel appliances, double step tray ceilings, finished garages with door opener, full sod and irrigation system.
The sales model is open daily, Nancy Rist and John Eroszonak are the Sales Associates on-site and can be reached at (843) 602-5646 or (843) 241-6027.
Coldwell Banker Chicora Real Estate was formed in November 2000 from the merging of Chicora Real Estate and Coldwell Banker Roberts Real Estate. Represented by more than 200 agents and 25 locations, Coldwell Banker Chicora Real Estate is the largest real estate firm in Horry and Georgetown counties and offers properties from Georgetown, SC to Brunswick County, NC. According to information compiled from the Coastal Carolina Association of REALTORS? Multiple Listing Service, Coldwell Banker Chicora Real Estate is the #1 real estate firm along the Grand Strand with record-setting sales volume. The organization is recognized nationally as #277 out of 700 companies in the RIS Media Power Broker survey, based on closed transactions during 2007. Coldwell Banker Chicora Real Estate has been named the #1 real estate company on the Grand Strand since 1972.
Since 1906, the Coldwell Banker? organization has been a premier provider of full-service real estate. In 2007, Franchise Times magazine?s prestigious Top 200 issue ranked the Coldwell Banker system number one in real estate for the eighth straight year and number eight among all franchisors. The Coldwell Banker system has more than 3900 residential real estate offices and 121,000 Sales Associates in 45 countries around the world. The Coldwell Banker system is a leader in the industry in residential and commercial real estate, and in niche markets such as resort, new home and luxury properties through its Coldwell Banker Previews International? division. It is a pioneer in consumer services with its Coldwell Banker Concierge? Service Program and award-winning Web site, www.coldwellbanker.com. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC is a subsidiary of Realogy Corporation, a global provider of real estate and relocation services. Coldwell Banker? is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Each office is independently owned and operated. # # #
February 24, 2012
Media Contact: Rod Smith, Director of General Brokerage (843) 233-8000 jrodsmith@chicora.net
fort knox quarry quarry fred shuttlesworth rule 34 steve jobs bill gates frances bean cobain
Lenovo C325 all-in-one review - Computers|Gadgets|Games N ...
The all-in-one form factor presents an attractive use case: it required much of the identical external setup as a desktop, but uses laptop parts quite often and has the identical resistance to expansion. Probably the most obviously attractive quality of the all-in-one is that it makes it possible for comfortable desktop-style use while being ?easy? ? just plug in a mouse and keyboard and you?re good to head. With the iMac occupying the head end and diverse HP and Lenovo consumer models grabbing space slightly below, there?s room for an extremely low-cost option: Lenovo?s $599 C325.
Hardware
As far because the hardware goes, the C325 is an efficient-looking if not overly showy model. A mostly plastic casing is accented by a whole metal base, helping to maintain the considerable weight of the screen and components in check. Much to my surprise, the glossy case contrasts with a matte LCD screen ? a undeniable boon to people who operate in bright offices or homes. The 1600?900 resolution is appreciated, and never often seen in a 20-inch panel ? though the much-advertised multi-touch option doesn?t appear to be available yet.
Under the metaphorical hood lies The AMD E-450, a dual-core 1.65Ghz processor that needs to handle the normal web browsing, email, and light-weight media of nearly all of business and consumer users, but would be ill-suited for advanced tasks. Ditto for the 4GB (8GB maximum) of DDR3 memory and Radeon HD 6320 integrated graphics. Our base configuration review unit came with a 500GB harddrive, but you will get a full?terabyte?if you spring for the upgrade. a traditional DVD-RW drive at the right side of the integrated rounds out the key components.
On the best side, a couple of USB 3.0 ports flank the microphone and headphone jacks, below a 6-in-1 memory card reader. Round the back are four more standard USB 2.0 ports and an old-school Ethernet port. The b/g/n WiFi module isn?t accessible, however the hard disk and memory bays are ? with room for an entire-size 3.5-inch SATA drive and an empty RAM DIMM slot for simple upgrades. There is no approach to output to an external monitor, but there is a connection for an optional TV tuner.?All that?s left at the front are the sizeable front-facing speakers, a slightly puny .3 megapixel webcam and the ability button an monitor controls. A basic wired mouse and keyboard are included -?serviceable, if not?extraordinary. Considering the integrated nature of all-in-one, wireless inputs would had been nice.
The whole package is basically exactly what you?d expect from an entry-level all-in-one: not more and mo less. Hardware highlights are the high-resolution screen (to any extent further can be overkill, any less can be annoying) and simply accessible storage and memory. i am not keen on the glossy plastic, and a height-adjustable stand would were useful ? the steel base only pivots the unit about 25 degrees.
Software
The C325 packs in Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit. For the bottom unit it doesn?t do much, since there?s only 3.5 gigabytes of obtainable memory when combined with the integrated graphics. But when you ever intend to upgrade or simply spring for more RAM on the get-go, it is a useful extension. There is no restore or OS disc, but you do get a CD of drivers for troubleshooting without an online connection.
An unfortunate reality of low-priced PCs is that manufacturers will attempt to up the profit margin with software pack-ins. The C325 is best than most on this respect, something i will happily say about Lenovo machines normally. Other than drivers and assorted Lenovo pack-ins, there?s McAfee anti-virus, an ordeal install of Microsoft Office and Windows Live Essentials. One pre-install I do appreciate is Google Chrome ? always nice to peer manufacturers that recognize that Internet Explorer isn?t an option for many power users. Too bad that they had to throw within the Google Toolbar to ?sweeten? the deal.
The all-in-one specifications won?t let it do high-end gaming or media creation, but heavy browsing sessions, massive email databases and iTunes (the bane of Windows performance fanatics everywhere) work without complaint. AMD?s E-series is worlds?better?than Atom-class processors, but still not as snappy as even the low end of Intel?s Core series.
Performance
As indicated above, the C325 isn?t fitted to heavy-duty tasks ? but then it is not really meant to be. Having said that, just a little more oomph from the CPU would were appreciated; this all-in-one would be outpaced by the typical ultrabook.?If all you want to do with an all-in-one is browsing and a few light media playback, it?s going to fit your needs just fine. If you are searching for gaming, graphics or other high-end tasks, look elsewhere.
System ? LENOVO Lenovo C325| Lenovo | Desktop | |
| Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium (64-bit) | ||
| LENOVO Inagua CRB | ||
| AMD E-450 | ||
| AuthenticAMD Family 20 Model 2 Stepping 0 | ||
| 9.22 EHz | 1 | |
| 2 | 2 | |
| 32.0 KB | 32.0 KB | |
| 512 KB | 0.00 B | |
| 4.00 GB DDR3 SDRAM 533MHz | 99.8 MHz | |
| LENOVO E3KT17AUS | ||
| Integer | Processor integer performance | 1845 |
| Floating Point | Processor floating point performance | 2366 |
| Memory | Memory performance | 1350 |
| Stream | Memory bandwidth performance | 1443 |
Value
The real?equation?you ought to wonder is that this: do i need a desktop that sacrifices size for expandability? For $600 you will get a fine looking decent laptop in recent times, and you?ll discover a more powerful desktop for a lot less. For the few usage cases where an all-in-one is right, the C325 fits the bill as a low-budget option. But are you able to find a type of cases where a laptop or standard desktop wouldn?t fit better??Perhaps the equation will be changed with the addition of a top quality multi-touch panel, but even then, usability ? not utility ? may be the primary bonus.
Wrap Up
As a low-cost entry within the all-in-one world, the Lenovo C325 is solid. Pluses include good fit and finish and simply upgradeable memory and storage, with a high-quality matte screen. The drawback is that there is just not enough processing power for intensive tasks. With 4GB or more of memory multi-tasking?shouldn?t?be problem, but the rest would be an ordeal for this machine.
For basic terminals or a light-weight communal home computer, the C325 is a great choice, especially with upgraded memory and storage. But for those that need more performance or simply can?t discover a more than enough reason to bask in the shape factor, a standard desktop will serve better at a lower cost, while a laptop will do for portability.
Check out the original source here.
mercedes limo, seo,garmin discounts ,sql tutorial ,data admin ,database versioning, dedicated servers, dedicated server, online chat,discussion forums, cloud server, live chat
Source: http://www.tywigs.org/gadgets-reviews/lenovo-c325-all-in-one-review
craig smith eat to live eat to live ron paul money bomb ron paul money bomb bon vivant zynga ipo
Monday, February 27, 2012
jnsanchez: @MansWrldJD No doubt about it. Timing is terrible. I was going to "like" your last tweet 'til I remembered this is Twitter, not Facebook lol
- Skip past navigation
- On a mobile phone? Check out m.twitter.com!
- Skip to navigation
- Skip to sign in form
@MansWrldJD No doubt about it. Timing is terrible. I was going to "like" your last tweet 'til I remembered this is Twitter, not Facebook lol 
jnsanchez Josh Sanchez
Footer
Source: http://twitter.com/jnsanchez/statuses/173861300303175681
sarah vowell fire in reno kelly ripa reno wildfire reno wildfire osu osu
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Ecommerce Website Design ? Guidelines
Published by witter
The process of conducting working communications and transactions online on the internet is known as Ecommerce. This great approach of organizing animation is though preferred by the majority of business firms. These approaches and improvement plans are driven by the varying consumer requirements. In the past decade some major trends in business processes come out to be more profitable. Some software applications revel in shopping carts, accomplishment display, selecting also ordering options, cost options etc have absorbed the attention of fee gateways like PayPal which are uninterrupted to make shopping a individualistic experience.
Ecommerce website design is one of the most advanced technologies used now days to seize the clients. Each company dealing with property promotes online marketing through interactive and really designed Ecommerce websites. Ecommerce website design is a platform which is easy to use and flexible than other shopping carts.
Ecommerce website design provides a greater level of relief of ecommerce web solutions like: online shopping cart, payment gateway Integration, Online merchant Accounts that helps to collect property and possessions by eliminating or decreasing the commission charged by brokers.
Ecommerce web site design and easy guidance are the factors that attract traffic to the companys web site. The ecommerce websites are not only choicest besides user friendly but these also retain the companys customers. It has been proved that the benefits of having a well-built ecommerce website care generate a cute prosperity and reputation which you had never before. You would be able to shop more conveniently and will get more satisfaction.
You can get upon to your competitors web site and can have a brief look at the web site which will help you to get your web site designed same or much better as your competitors one. By keeping a proper follow to various Ecommerce web sites you?ll be able to build a more useful website. These Ecommerce websites helps in providing maximum knowledge to the customers. Remember, when it comes to your business besides your companies exposure on internet, Ecommerce website design helps in boosting the sales of the products and services by providing online stores which are preferred by most of the people instead of going and visiting the store physically.
austin rivers ows kindle fire review community matt schaub fire island fire island
World News - Gunman kills two US Army officers in Afghan Interior ...
NBC's Atia Abawi reports.
By NBC News' Jim Miklaszewski and news services
Updated at?5:36 p.m. ET: A gunman shot dead two American military officials inside the heavily guarded Afghan Interior Ministry in the center of the capital Kabul on Saturday in an alarmingly brazen attack, as protests raged across the country for a fifth day over the burning of the Muslim holy book at a NATO base.
The Americans, who were U.S.?Army officers serving as advisers to the Afghan security forces, were sitting at their desks inside the government ministry building when they were killed, NBC News reported. They were shot in the back of the head, Western officials speaking on condition of anonymity told The Associated Press.
U.S. officials said the assailant ? who has not been identified by name or nationality ? remained at large and a manhunt was under way.
Underscoring the gravity of the attack and apparent security breach, Gen. John Allen, the commander of NATO and U.S. forces in Afghanistan,?ordered all NATO personnel recalled from Afghan ministries "for obvious force protection reasons."
Retired Army Gen. Barry McCaffrey offers analysis of the deaths and protests in Afghanistan.
"We are investigating the crime and will pursue all leads to find the person responsible for this attack. The perpetrator of this attack is a coward whose actions will not go unanswered," Allen said in a statement.
The U.S. servicemen ? a lieutenant colonel and a major ? were found dead on the floor of an office that only people who know a numerical combination can get into, Afghan and Western officials told the AP.
"There is CCTV there and special locks. The killer would have had to have the highest security (clearance) to get to the room where they were killed,"?an Afghan security source told Reuters.
NATO spokesman Lt. Col Jimmie Cummings said "initial reports say it was not a Western shooter." He declined to provide further information.
In an e-mail sent to Western officials in Kabul from NATO headquarters, the?attack was described as ?green on blue,? which is the military term used here when Afghan security forces turn their weapons on their Western military allies, The New York Times reported.
The Afghan Taliban claimed that two of their fighters had managed to enter the building in Kabul and kill four "high-ranking U.S. advisers," according to NBC News. U.S. military officials confirmed only two deaths and the Taliban claim could not be independently verified. The Taliban often exaggerate claims of responsibility for terror attacks.
Musadeq Sadeq / AP
A U.S. military convoy enters the Afghan Interior Ministry in Kabul on Saturday after a gunman killed two American advisers inside.
"Our suicide bomber Abdur Rahman along with another fighter managed to enter the interior ministry and open fire at the Americans. Before carrying out the suicide attack, Abdur Rahman told us on telephone that he had killed four high-ranking Americans. The second fighter successfully escaped the building and has joined his fighters now," the Taliban spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, said in a phone call to NBC?from an undisclosed location.
Military leaders and politicians haven't had much success in stopping the violence, but religious leaders have. NBC's Atia Abawi reports.
He said it was revenge?for the?desecration of holy Quran by the U.S. forces.
In Washington,?Pentagon press secretary George Little?said Defense Secretary Leon Panetta was informed of the shooting Saturday morning. "This act is unacceptable, and the United States condemns it in the strongest possible terms," Little said.
He said?Afghan Defense Minister?Gen. Abdul Rahim Wardak called Panetta to apologize and to offer his condolences.
"Secretary Panetta appreciated the call and urged the Afghan government to take decisive action to protect coalition forces and curtail the violence in Afghanistan after a challenging week in the country," Little's statement said. "Minister Wardak said that President (Hamid) Karzai was assembling the religious leaders, parliamentarians, justices of the Supreme Court and other senior Afghan officials to take urgent steps to do so."
In Kabul, Allen met with Afghan Interior Minister?Bismillah Mohammadi, who pledged "complete cooperation in investigating today's tragedy and in taking stronger measures to protect ISAF personnel," Little said.
President Barack Obama called Allen after Saturday's shootings and the White House said the president supported the steps taken to protect U.S. service members in Afghanistan.
"We welcome President Karzai's statement ... encouraging peaceful expressions, and his call for dialogue and calm. The United States remains committed to a partnership with the government and people of Afghanistan, as we work to realize our shared goal of disrupting, dismantling and defeating al-Qaida and strengthening the Afghan state," the White House statement added.
If the shootings are linked to Afghan forces, new questions will arise about Taliban infiltration as well as their ability to secure Afghanistan once NATO combat forces withdraw in 2014.
NATO is supposed to be moving away from a combat role to an advise-and-assist mission as early as next year. That will require NATO to place more staff in ministries.
"The fact that NATO is recalling staff from ministries suggests they are worried about a deep malaise in the Afghan security forces, that they expect more of these attacks," said Kamran Bokhari at STRATFOR global intelligence firm.
Quran protests
Saturday's attack comes as tensions between the Afghans and the Americans are high following the burning of copies of the Muslim holy book at a U.S. base that sparked days of deadly protests.
At least 28 people have been killed and hundreds wounded since Tuesday, when it first emerged that Qurans and other religious materials had been thrown into a fire pit used to burn garbage at Bagram Air Field, a large U.S. base north of Kabul. Among those dead were two U.S. soldiers who were killed Thursday by one of their Afghan counterparts while a riot raged outside their base in the eastern province of Nangarhar.
President Barack Obama and other U.S. officials apologized and said the burning of Qurans was a terrible mistake, but the incident has sent thousands to the streets in this deeply religious country.
In Kunduz, the capital of Kunduz province in northeast Afghanistan, more than 1,000 protesters demonstrated. At first they were peaceful, but as the protest continued they began throwing stones at government buildings and a U.N. office, said Sarwer Hussaini, a spokesman for the provincial police. He said the police were firing into the air to try to disperse the crowd.
The U.N. confirmed in a statement that its Kunduz compound was attacked, but said all its staff in Kunduz and in the country were unhurt and accounted for. The statement thanked Afghan security forces for their quick response to the assault.
NBC News' Jim Miklaszewski and Courtney Kube and The Associated Press and Reuters contributed to this report.
More from msnbc.com and NBC News:
clay matthews kenny chesney matt kemp rumpelstiltskin rumpelstiltskin yahoo.com/mail david nelson
Saturday, February 25, 2012
VA Home Improvement Loans
VA Home Improvement Loans
Did you know that aside from buying or building a new home, veterans can actually use VA loans for home improvements? Everybody knows that updating a home can cost a lot of money but if you?re a veteran who is eligible for a VA loan can borrow as much as 90% of your home equity and use it for home improvements. This is something a veteran should take advantage of because of the VA loan?s advantages. But just like a typical VA loan application, one has to submit the necessary requirements and prove eligibility.
So why should you consider a home improvement?
For one, it increases your home equity. Of course it also adds comfort and value to your home. Now what types of home improvement projects can you work on? Here?s a quick checklist of what you can do.
? Roof Repairs ? This is probably one of the best ways to use your VA loan since large improvements like roof repairs cost a lot of money.
Installation of shingles or replacement of old ones cost somewhere from ? per square foot while flashing around the chimney costs about 0-0.
? Flooring repairs ? Another great way to spend your VA home improvement loan is by installing or repairing your home?s flooring. With your loan you can have your floors sanded and finished or you can install a ceramic or vinyl floor or install a wall-to-wall carpet. The costs usually range from .50 to as much as per square foot for the services mentioned above.
? Heating and Air Conditioning installations ? Replacing the heating and air conditioning system costs somewhere from ,500 to 00 but if you are only going to install a humidifier or an air cleaner, it?s priced at 0-0.
? Bathroom remodeling ? Statistics show that bathroom remodeling adds more value to a home.
A typical bathroom remodeling ranges from ,000 to as much as ,000. Why is it so expensive? Though the bathroom is not the biggest room in the house, when it comes to renovation you have to call different people to remodel it ? plumbers, electricians, tile contractors, sheet rock contractors, etc.
? Kitchen remodeling ? Based on annual realtor group polls, it was found that kitchen remodeling adds the most value to your home. (Yes, it beats the bathroom remodeling numbers.) This type of remodeling starts from ,000. You can update your countertops, the sink, cabinets, range, oven, the dishwasher, fridge, and microwave.
It is still more cost-efficient to repair and update your home than move into a new one. Better get started and apply for a VA home loan so you can enjoy the benefits of a newly improved home.
Source: http://www.globalcontemporaryfineart.com/380/va-home-improvement-loans
cabin in the woods dan quayle brett favre packers stock packers stock mastectomy st. nicholas
Home Remodeling Support You Need To Be successful | Search ...
It can make excellent good sense to want to far better your property. Despite the fact that it might be overpowering sometimes, several home improvement jobs might be completed with the average do-it-your self home owner. Whether or not you would like to increase your property?s importance or even if you just want to transform your household, the tips in this post is going to be helpful to you.
A great suggestion is always to place some insulating material on your own plumbing, so the drinking water will remain popular within the lines and definately will not freeze through wintertime weather conditions. Heating tape also works very well and it is easy to install, even though you?re a home development novice. This tape could keep your method from freezing, and you will probably not need to change any burst lines.
It is vital that you might have a licensed contractor that is ready to listen to what you need to say. Although it?s vital that you feel your contractor is reliable, it?s incredibly important that you?re positive that they are paying attention to what you?re telling them about the task. If the service provider is not hearing you, they could be adhering to their own curiosity. Make certain that they pay attention well for your needs.
Sign up for your online community to boost and build up your toolbox to save money on your own redecorating tasks. Instead of buying a specific tool that you may possibly only use after, promote equipment together with your neighbors. As an included help, the both of you can relationship and share home improvement suggestions.
When adding exterior lights, take into account installing motion detector lighting fixtures. Motion sensor lighting fixtures include security and safety in your property. This translates into reducing your electric expenses.
You should make sure you need to do all the necessary domestic plumbing and rewiring before you begin a home remodelling project. Given that most of these fixes should be performed by going to your wall space, you ought to look after them initial. As soon as your surfaces happen to be wide open, it is much better to take on common routine maintenance to wiring or plumbing related.
Stucco is really a nice, cost-effective replacement for classic siding for your home?s exterior. Stucco is unique, interesting and extended-lasting.
A combo washer-dryer may be the respond to when your area is just too small for person models. A number of these models are as small like a dishwasher, and so the place needed to incorporate one is not significant. A combo unit washes the garments and whenever accomplished switches to a dryer.
To create attic place much more useful, invest in a dormer window. This windowpane will be fantastic from your exterior and could double the sq ft in your home. By spending a somewhat minor amount of cash, you can improve your home?s worthy of and acquire beneficial added place.
Swap out all bulbs in your home for the cost effective sort. This would lower your strength monthly bill although supporting the environment. A lot more effective light bulbs likewise have longer lives in comparison to the old models. Transition out those aged bulbs and put in cost effective lights.
To maintain your lawn lit after dark but still save on electricity, change out your normal light for just one with a movement sensing unit. You can expect to nonetheless have the ability to change the lighting on, and many models permit you to select various sensitivity thresholds.
Re-caulking home windows can be a project that may keep you from getting great power bills and problems costs. This stops drafts, decreases mold improvement, and lowers your heating charges. In the event the outdated caulking is damaged, take it off very carefully with a chisel and hammer and swap with refreshing caulk.
Use a straight wall structure coat rack as a way to display screen your bracelets and necklaces. Put it to use just for costume jewellery, not costly pieces. Having your nicer expensive jewelry out on display screen can be aesthetically pleasing and keep the parts from being tangled. Pick parts you use often while keeping them where you could reach them.
Redecorating really should not be a challenging chore. It can not subject if you are intending to do the job on your own or pay for the dollars to hire a licensed contractor to aid, after the suggestions in this article will help you get on the top of any remarkable house improvements you need accomplished.
electrician
Friday, February 24, 2012
Romney pounces on Santorum's Senate compromises (AP)
[unable to retrieve full-text content]AP - Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney tried to upend Rick Santorum's image as a principled defender of conservative ideals Thursday, telling voters in Arizona and Michigan that the former senator is just another give-and-take politician.
pacific standard time local time when is daylight savings 2011 what time is it cain gingrich debate andy rooney dies andy rooney dies
Playstation Vita Review: A Killer Gaming Handheld From a Bygone ...
Next to the phones and tablets on my desk, Sony?s Playstation Vita looks like it doesn?t belong. It?s twice as thick as the latest smartphones, and twice as heavy. Its exterior is a hodgepodge of materials, gray and black, matte and glossy. Protrusions and intrusions abound, from buttons and triggers to jacks and slots. If there was a memo decreeing that all portable electronics be reduced to slabs, Sony?s ignoring it.
The Vita?s design turns out to be a good metaphor for the gaming handheld itself. It?s a device that makes some small concessions to the rise of phones and tablets as portable entertainment?things like the touch screen and motion controls, the bare-bones web browser and the obligatory Twitter, Flickr and Netflix apps?but then it ignores them in favor of playing kick-ass, modern video games. Not Angry Birds, Doodle Jump, or Sudoku, but Uncharted, Rayman, and Marvel vs. Capcom. Almost everything else seems like an afterthought.
The Playstation Vita owes much of its gaming prowess to its controls, or more specifically, to the pair of tiny thumb sticks that sit on either side of the 5-inch display. No other handheld has included dual analog sticks before, and although the Vita?s aren?t as easy to master as those of a full-size controller, they put to shame the sliding analog pad of Nintendo?s 3DS. At last, no more compromises for first- and third-person shooters.
To get these games running smoothly, the Vita?s CPU and GPU each have four processing cores. This processor combo is so powerful that some publishers have ported their full-size Playstation 3 games down to the Vita without much compromise. Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 is just as fluid on the Vita as it is on home gaming consoles. Wipeout 2048 had its framerate knocked down on the Vita, but you can actually race against players of Wipeout HD on the Playstation 3.
The rest of the hardware takes a backseat, with the battery lasting for maybe four hours on a charge, and the front and rear VGA cameras taking grainy photos. But it?s easy to forget about those drawbacks when you?re playing a game that feels like it was made for an Xbox 360 or Playstation 3. That?s when the Vita is at its best.
At its worst, the Vita tries to shove touch and motion controls down players? throats. Uncharted: Golden Abyss, for instance, breaks up its action sequences with tedious tasks, such as rotating an artifact around with the rear touch panel while brushing off virtual dirt with the touch screen. You can almost picture the touch control mandate coming down from a Sony board room, and although some games handle it gracefully?I liked how FIFA Soccer lets you aim on goal with touch controls?most touch and motion options are better off ignored.
I?m also troubled by the inflated prices of some Vita games that are already available on phones and tablets. Gameloft?s Asphalt: Injection costs $30 on the Vita, while Asphalt 6, a nearly identical game with slightly fewer courses and cars, costs $1 on the iPad. Plants vs. Zombies costs $7 on the iPad, but it?s a $15 download on the Vita. The markup, especially for boxed retail games, is a slap in the face to consumers, and I hope the market quickly discourages that kind of pricing.
Of course, using the Vita isn?t just a matter of popping in a cartridge and playing. Sony created a new operating system for the Vita, with bubble-shaped app icons and an iPhone-like home button on the hardware. Yes, it?s another nod to smartphones, but Sony does things its own way. Open apps, for example, are represented as sheets of virtual paper called ?LiveAreas,? named for the information they contain. These LiveAreas show friend activity, software updates and news from the publisher, and users can multitask by swiping from one sheet to the next, and can close apps for good by peeling away at the page. As far as app management goes, the Vita is as capable as any smartphone or tablet.
Yet some of the frustration of traditional gaming remains.?Sometimes, you?ll load up a game, only to find out that you can?t play online without going back to the LiveArea, downloading an update, then relaunching the game. For some apps, multitasking is out of bounds, so you can?t run a game and the Web browser at the same time, nor can you jump back and forth between two games. This wouldn?t be a major headache, except that the games themselves often suffer from long load times, so if you exit a game completely, you?ll have to wait a while to start playing again.
The Vita?s online system is also a bit of a mess. Instead of offering one social app for all friend interactions, Sony separates friend lists, messages, voice chats, and nearby players into four individual apps, which is silly considering you?ll often get bounced from one to the other. Even worse, some games, such as Uncharted, will sign you out of Sony?s online network for no apparent reason, so you can?t tell if someone?s trying to reach you without going to the home screen.
The main hub for online activity is an app called Near, which lets you find nearby players, look at what other people are playing, and send and receive gifts. It?s a neat idea, but it?d be better if games themselves could handle the gifting and player tracking directly. Also, I never quite understood why I was receiving a particular gift, or how to control who?s getting presents from me. With the Vita, all the right social features are in place, but the execution needs improvement.
When it comes to buying new content online, however, Sony nailed it. Although most of the games sent to me for review came in boxes, all of them can be downloaded from the Playstation Store as well. The online shop also includes old PSP games, PSP Minis, movies and TV shows, so users who splurge for Sony?s overpriced proprietary memory cards?starting at $20 for 4 GB?will have lots of content to choose from. That seems like the way to go unless you don?t mind carrying around a bunch of tiny game cartridges in your pocket.
The Playstation Vita launches on February 22, priced at $250 for a Wi-Fi model, or $300 for one with support for AT&T?s 3G network. (3G data costs $15 per month for 250 MB, or $30 per month for 3 GB.) The 3G is useful if you want to use the Near app or browse the web on the road, but it?s not a very fast connection, and some games won?t even let you play online unless you?re connected to Wi-Fi.
When I first saw the Playstation Vita last June, I said it was handheld gaming?s last stand, and I still think that?s the case. Like any gaming device, the success of the Vita depends how well it?s supported by game publishers and how affordable it gets with time. But phones and tablets are a growing threat. They?re getting more popular, and their games are getting better at a fraction of the cost of the Vita?s games. That?s probably why Sony is working on Android-based gaming as a backup plan.
For now, though, the Vita is what it should be: A defiant gesture in defense of elaborate, expensive, beautiful video games, but with quiet acknowledgments that something bigger is lurking.
?Be the first to comment
Read more:?
Source: http://technologizer.com/2012/02/22/playstation-vita-review/
john king obama sings al green heidi klum and seal ohare airport etta james songs east west shrine game haywire
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Superbugs from space offer new source of power
ScienceDaily (Feb. 21, 2012) ? Bacteria normally found 30km above Earth have been identified as highly efficient generators of electricity.
Bacillus stratosphericus -- a microbe commonly found in high concentrations in the stratosphere orbiting Earth with the satellites -- is a key component of a new 'super' biofilm that has been engineered by a team of scientists from Newcastle University.
Isolating 75 different species of bacteria from the Wear Estuary, Country Durham, UK, the team tested the power-generation of each one using a Microbial Fuel Cell (MFC).
By selecting the best species of bacteria, a kind of microbial "pick and mix," they were able to create an artificial biofilm, doubling the electrical output of the MFC from 105 Watts per cubic metre to 200 Watts per cubic metre.
While still relatively low, this would be enough power to run an electric light and could provide a much needed power source in parts of the world without electricity.
Among the 'super' bugs was B. Stratosphericus, a microbe normally found in the atmosphere but brought down to earth as a result of atmospheric cycling processes and isolated by the team from the bed of the River Wear.
Publishing their findings February 21 in the American Chemical Society's Journal of Environmental Science and Technology,
Grant Burgess, Professor of Marine Biotechnology at Newcastle University, said the research demonstrated the "potential power of the technique."
"What we have done is deliberately manipulate the microbial mix to engineer a biofilm that is more efficient at generating electricity," he explains.
"This is the first time individual microbes have been studied and selected in this way. Finding B.Stratosphericus was quite a surprise but what it demonstrates is the potential of this technique for the future -- there are billions of microbes out there with the potential to generate power."
The use of microbes to generate electricity is not a new concept and has been used in the treatment of waste water and sewage plants.
Microbial Fuel Cells, which work in a similar way to a battery, use bacteria to convert organic compounds directly into electricity by a process known as bio-catalytic oxidation.
A biofilm -- or 'slime' -- coats the carbon electrodes of the MFC and as the bacteria feed, they produce electrons which pass into the electrodes and generate electricity.
Until now, the biofilm has been allowed to grow un-checked but this new study shows for the first time that by manipulating the biofilm you can significantly increase the electrical output of the fuel cell.
Funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) and the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), the study identified a number of electricity-generating bacteria.
As well as B. Stratosphericus, other electricity-generating bugs in the mix were Bacillus altitudinis - another bug from the upper atmosphere -- and a new member of the phylum Bacteroidetes.
Recommend this story on Facebook, Twitter,
and Google +1:
Other bookmarking and sharing tools:
Story Source:
The above story is reprinted from materials provided by Newcastle University.
Note: Materials may be edited for content and length. For further information, please contact the source cited above.
Journal Reference:
- Jinwei Zhang, Enren Zhang, Keith Scott, J. Grant Burgess. Enhanced Electricity Production by Use of Reconstituted Artificial Consortia of Estuarine Bacteria Grown as Biofilms. Environmental Science & Technology, 2012; 120221192908002 DOI: 10.1021/es2020007
Note: If no author is given, the source is cited instead.
Disclaimer: Views expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect those of ScienceDaily or its staff.
Source: http://feeds.sciencedaily.com/~r/sciencedaily/~3/6F982-_Yte8/120221212614.htm
the music man steve smith weather san antonio weather san antonio jerry brown dream act roger williams
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
The Way To Understand Your Cats Behaviors | Press Release and ...
Felines are incredibly interesting animals and still have unusual ways of contacting all of us. A few of these approaches could be delicate and also interesting. Probably the most frequent methods for communication is a straightforward flick of the end and with the felines meow. A different one may be your own cat?s twitching again or even flared head. Yet another could possibly be raised curly hair for the cat?s tail as well as again. In most cases a new cat?s body language sometimes is actually restrained with a leash that serves to fight to comprehend what they?re attempting to tell you. Often it becomes simpler to be aware of what you indicate once they make use of appears. They can alter their own looks coming from a soft purr with a seething hiss, and by this particular you?ll be able to know whether or not the cat is pleased you aren?t.
One way of comprehension their particular actions is as simple as experimenting with these. Most domestic pets enjoy play occasion using their entrepreneurs and a feline like a puppy will also demonstrate this actions. You should engage your kitty in a few participate in time as this can help you connect and much better comprehend their own actions. After all, in the event that they?ve recently been kept in the house for hours on end if anyone haven?t had time and energy to use them every single day, chances are they?ll can get restless (specially the younger versions). Sometimes these kind of video games assists as a balanced method to help you in learning your pet much better and to bond with these.
You can even choose to teach the cat, before achieving this you first need to comprehend its measures. No matter how challenging you are attempting to train a cat in order to you?ll be successful is always to try to get an increased understanding of their connection programs. In this way you?ll be able to measure in the event that you?re successful, in case your cat?s open, or maybe if you happen to be absolutely away foundation through exactly what the kitty is willing to perform.
One of the things you must understand on them is the seems they create as this will allow you to greatly while instruction your own cat. Pet cats depend on their bodies to speak also. You will have to comprehend their body words because they utilize these movements to speak.
While felines are annoyed they are going to create a hissing seem which is a forewarning for you, that you can not really get just about any more detailed. When you have this situation you will need to relaxed your current kitten down with some food or perhaps cat goodies. Doggie snacks are great calming providers with regard to angry pet cats.
In order to grasp the particular gestures of your kitty then you need to be patient. May possibly not be simple so it is extremely important to own patience with your dogs and cats. You need to spend some time with these, because they can not find out all things in just one evening. For it 1 day at a time you will see brings about virtually no time.
Working with kitty conduct is not hard and also at instances very satisfying. Kittens and cats have trendy ways of talking with people which makes them really entertaining and exciting pets. Feline treatment is highly recommended since they are important pets within our lives.
To learn more about the art of preventing certain types of cat behaviors, read How To Stop Cat Biting or Caring for Cats 101. These books are some of the best in the market for both you and your feline friend.
Source: http://www.pro-pr.org/understand-cats-behaviors/
nfl games nfl schedule nfl scores nfl scores jesus montero hiroki kuroda kuroda
Boston Plumbing Resolutions for the New Year | ArtByBethany.Com
Boston?Plumbing ideas for the new year When it comes to the new year, as far as plumbing goes, we are not usually thinging about that as the 1st factor to fix up in the new year. Many of us make New Year?s resolutions to better what we eat and wellness, our own romantic relationships along [...]
When it comes to the new year, as far as plumbing goes, we are not usually thinging about that as the 1st factor to fix up in the new year.
Many of us make New Year?s resolutions to better what we eat and wellness, our own romantic relationships along with friends, and even to increase where and how we work. Some people even decide to keeping your property tidier as well as perhaps applying a bit of a transformation to bring up to date our own liveable space. Resolutions intended for much better newton plumbing in the year, nevertheless, might not come just as easily in your thoughts seeing that other things. Are you wanting to take into account adjustments to yourhousehold?s domestic plumbing composition? Perhaps not, however it is recommended that you put in a number of pertinent factors to the home improvement to-do collection.
Since we?ve a person thinking about your plumbing, here are a few circumstances to consider for that year when you think about enhancements home:
?
Routine a plumbing inspection. If you have never ever had a plumbing mechanic examine out the pipes, water heater, and other fixtures before, you are definitely overdue. Even if you perceive nothing is wrong with the way your water flows, it really is a excellent thought to have someone come in the moment year to examine out every little thing. You may well find that your plumber can assist you conserve on your water and heating bills with a number of tips and fixes.
?
Appear into going green. By replacing your latest water heater with a tankless model, or installing fixtures like eco-friendly toilets and low-flow shower heads, you can support conserve water and power, and even see a welcome distinction in your utility bills. With certain green improvements to your residence, you may also qualify for tax rebates.
?
View water utilization. This is essential any time of year. If you?re concerned about substantial expenses, retain an eye on how considerably water is utilized in the course of the day. Try not to let faucets run when not required, and view use with laundry and lawn care. When you track use, you are more mindful of when to cut down.
?
Think about upgrades to the kitchen and bathrooms. Your wants modify more than time. Possibly you have new additions to the loved ones, or the youngsters have grown and left the nest. These occasions have an influence on your house in that you are encouraged to make enhancements for your personalized comfort. This could be the year you add brushed nickel faucets and handles to your bathrooms, or an upgraded, commercial-design faucet with pull-out sprayer to your kitchen sink. If you have longed for a jetted tub, why not search into your possibilities now. Appreciate a long, soothing bath the way you want it.
Source: http://artbybethany.com/2012/02/boston-plumbing-resolutions-for-the-new-year/
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Five Things Should Try To Find In A Personal Loan Organization ...
What could you do if you needed cash? Whether it had been to repay some bills, go on holiday or maybe do some home enhancements, you need unsecured loan. Deciding you will want loan is easy but choosing where you might get the loan might be slightly more difficult. Listed here are five things to consider when looking at unsecured loan companies.
one particular. This is business.
Irrespective of where you get your loana bank or perhaps a finance companythat entity is out to produce a buck (or perhaps many) away from you. While reputable businesses is going to be honest concerning the costs, as is needed by law in most cases, they?re not going to tell you whether you should go down the street to save a few hundred dollars.
Along those outlines, you should definitely shop around when buying personal student loans company. Many signature loans don?t have the long payback term that the mortgage does, this may still last for a chunk in your life, between almost a year to a lot of years. That you don?t desire to be monthly into a five-year loan and realize you ought to have used another personal fund company.
Things to find when doing your research:
? Interest. The interest rate on a personal bank loan can differ from 5% to 25%. Over the life of a loan, that?s big money. Ensure you are getting the cheapest possible level.
? Costs. Most businesses make their money on a unsecured loan in the interest these people charge. Nonetheless, some companies may charge fees and you ought to know of those fees and why they?re being billed. Could it be to lessen the interest rate, or could it be the organization just making more income off of you?
you need to Application digesting. How long does it decide to try process the application? And who makes the decision? Just how soon you need the money may help decide that personal student loans company to use.
This is by no means a whole list of what you need to bear in mind when buying personal student loans company, nonetheless it should get you started.
only two) What exactly is the company?s reputation?
That you don?t want to deal with a fly-by-night operation that produces huge promises, provides you with the amount of money then starts charging a number of ?fees? which have been written in to the small print. Nor would you like one that will mess with your consumer credit. Some questions you should ask just before signing with a personal student loans company are usually:
? How long have they held it?s place in business? Wish company is new will not mean it?s not reputable, just like an organization that is in operation thirty years isn?t just reputable. Nevertheless, most places that poor business do not stay around for extended.
quick Does the private student loans company have any recommendations on file? Possibly the company provides received a few letters they can share from customers which have appreciated the company. While this might be an extended shot, it could be worth asking.
? Even better, have you got any friends that will recommend this provider? If someone you understand used the private student loans company and had a good experience, you will do well with them too.
Since before, this specific list may be added on to. It should get you taking into consideration the company?s worthiness to have your organization. From there, you?ll develop more questions by yourself.
a few) Does the personal student loans company carry out secured or short term loans?
Which are the difference between both of these types of loans?
quick A based loan has some sort of collateral that you pledge to provide the non-public finance company if you don?t repay the financial loan. Put simply, an individual has ?secured? the business?s ability to make its money-back if you stop generating payments since you lose the particular collateral. Regarding home financing, the collateral is a house. With car finance, you risk losing your vehicle. With a personal bank loan, you could pledge a valuable bit of jewelry or an accumulation some kind.
? An unsecured loan is similar to credit debt. There is absolutely no collateral to cover the personal finance industrys investment if you default on the loan. Incidentally, it doesn?t mean you receive away with anything. The organization can come after you for an unsecured loan as quickly in terms of a secured loan.
4) How will your credit ranking affect the student loans company?s want to do business with you?
Are you experiencing bad credit or absolutely no credit at all? Several personal boat finance companies may not wish to even communicate with you in cases like this. You can find other companies who does enjoy taking your business however, because you?re regarded as a chance, there is a chance they might also demand a ridiculous rate of interest.
Another possibility is that the company may require you to have a cosigner on the loan. This is more likely if you?re young and also have bad or maybe no credit. This means that you will not have the money upon just your own signature expressing you?ll pay off the mortgage. The cosigner additionally signs the particular loan documentswhich are legally binding and may be used to collect in a court regarding lawand if you default will pay back the loan. If a company needs you to have a cosigner, this may be a challenge. Many individuals won?t cosign financing (or don?t possess the credit necessary to do this), because of the financial obligation.
{5}) Do you like all of them?
Okay, this one may seem silly, but if you dread stepping to the personal student loans company?s places of work, or cannot stand playing your personal loan officer?s speech, this could cause problems at some time. Whether this is a gut instinct telling you to hightail it or is simply something that happens with regard to no obvious reason, you don?t want to cope with any company that makes you uneasy. Remember, just because you like someone doesn?t mean they will perform a good job for you. And someone you don?t like may do an excellent job for you. Nevertheless, stressing over your interaction with the personal student loans company might not be conducive to ensuring you?re getting the most effective deal probable or maybe not being taken advantage of.
Unfortunately, you will find no absolutes when coping with life, and that features obtaining a personal loan. Nevertheless, if you keep these recommendations in your mind, request any questions you have (no matter how dumb they could seem) and verify every single step you take, then having the money you need should be relatively pain-free.
Source: http://freefinancearticles.info/five-things-should-try-to-find-in-a-personal-loan-organization
trans siberian orchestra trans siberian orchestra little big town little big town bennett bennett daniel day lewis
US, Mexico agree to cooperate on energy (AP)
[unable to retrieve full-text content]
AP - The United States and Mexico agreed Monday to work together when drilling for oil and gas below their maritime border in the Gulf of Mexico.
day light savings day light savings us geological survey us geological survey oklahoma fall back time change
Monday, February 20, 2012
Personal Injury Law and 'Compensation Culture' - Careers - Career ...
In recent times, personal injury law has been criticised from both within and outside the law industry. But like it or not, personal injury law is a niche area that has cemented its importance and prominence in Australian courts and the legal world. Personal injury law deals with injury to the body, mind or emotions and is most commonly used to refer to a type of lawsuit that claims a plaintiff's injury was caused by the negligence of another. Personal injury law has been the subject of much criticism for a few main reasons, most notably for the so-called 'compensation culture' it is believed to have created. Compensation culture refers to a growing belief that one who has experienced or suffered personal injury is able to seek compensation through legal action from someone connected with the injury. As such, personal injury law and compensation culture has made it legally possible and often lucrative to shift the blame or accountability of an injury to someone else. Perso nal injury lawyers have also got swept up in the criticism of this area of the law, often being referred to as 'ambulance chasers' who plant the seed of litigation in injured persons. There is, however, another side to personal injury law, and those interested in personal injury law jobs should not be deterred. Defending those who have been injured at the expense of another person or corporation is also an important piece of the law puzzle.
0
Source: http://bakalanku.blogspot.com/2012/02/personal-injury-law-and-compensation.html
the brothers grimm grimm fairy tales grimm fairy tales gold rush gold rush weather boston chili recipe
Exclusive: Algeria seizes missiles smuggled from Libya: source (Reuters)
[unable to retrieve full-text content]Reuters - Algerian security forces have found a large cache of weapons, including shoulder-fired missiles, which they believe were smuggled in from neighboring Libya, a security source briefed on the discovery told Reuters on Saturday.
madonna halftime m i a clint eastwood mia super bowl tom coughlin wes welker eli manning
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Public Automotive Auctions ? Buying A Good Car Cope From Public ...
Auctions are busy process looking at countless listings over the internet, driving to hundreds and thousands of homes, checking comps about the MLS (mls), and getting to learn neighborhoods and developments. Many police public sale sites will prohibit any ?non-paying? buyers from future auctions and you may not want to become one of these brilliant outlaws. He won that bid 5K to get house plus 5% shopper?s Auctions Online premium. Reviewers know which in turn car dealers or simply auctions sponsors on California have welcoming staffs, are offering easy enterprise, and dealing out and about great cars. The web page will disclose your shown products and you should wager the product by way of our offered free online highest taker methodology. Therefore, adding creative process in the craftsmen.
Throughout record, auctions have definitely not been the favoured style of negotiating the sale and get of goods and even commodities. It is sites including eBay which encourages sniping and in addition.the actual bright techniques individuals handle to force other participants from your auction or even drive in the costs. You could observe a boom in jewelry or older binoculars, or you may get a number of boxes of family members photographs and recollection. One of your own sources is the online world, where you can find a whole lot of websites that allows you to bid on their particular auctioned cars. Before going into the actual auto promote, you need to distinguish a budget. They might also sell property or commercial lender repossessed vehicles.
Online Motor vehicle Auctions has proven itself to remain quite a blessing to the society, and through the whole world of e-commerce, online auction sites similar to this allow us in order to save time and money whenever we are looking to interchange our car. Perusing different travel and leisure auction websites and also comparing their bid amounts will let you find the best package dependant upon want you want and also best deal to make the package. Bidstick has been a market innovator for yrs, and for individuals that expect the best Bidstick will meet up with or beat most of industry expectations. Since the lesser people, the more chances you?ll have to grab a good deal. This is a vintage rookie move; if you wish to be a professional, gear your thought process to thinking such as one, and one technique to think and work as a professional will be to concentrate and definitely not lose focus.
Some belonging to the tips I give out in this article might make or break the eBay business at first phases. You could purchase a used motorhome on a little as 10% connected with its book importance. So beginning contractors act as ring people, learning how to connect to auction buyers, spot bids and grow more familiar when using the expectations of typically the bid caller. It can resemble a shopper?s destination, as you can buy various items just like cars, clothing, electronics, jewelry, even properties which have been up for market. According to solutions, an item which has been used to provide for a crime or was used in crime will likely end up on a police auction, so that they are put to beneficial use.
For those who will be using eBay as being a reselling market, it?s important you happen to be already an started eBay seller. Without cooperation with the bidder, the auctioneer will have difficulty doing the process. If you pick up lucky, you can pull at the a repossessed car that?s pricing 95% of it?s retail value. This auction is usually to get rental oh no ? the facility for that units that people do not pay on like they need to. Each government or simply contractor website will in addition have a registration form for getting notices of innovative auction listings. From services to goods on the market, classifieds can often be diverse, attracting a selection of website visitors.
Source: http://completelylegal.net/?p=2174
sharon bialek call of duty elite dragonfly courtney stodden drake take care herman cain accuser herman cain accuser
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Recommended Hotels in New Delhi for business or leisure travelers
[unable to retrieve full-text content]Among the 4 star Ramada Inn Plaza la, Surya Hotel and many other hotels. The price of rooms at these hotels vary by season, ... Indian Home Stays and Bed & Breakfast in New Delhi are gaining popularity as it adapts to the budget conscious travelers and luxury price. There is a large number of home b & b that have come after ... Bed and Breakfast accommodation are the safest option for women traveling in Delhi. Students who come to India, either for practice or for ...
joe bodolai ben nelson extreme couponing taylor lautner sinead o connor dan marino passing record ipad 2 cases
[OOC] 0ur Galaxy in Fragmen?s ?
Forum rules
This forum is for OOC discussion about existing roleplays.
This forum is for OOC discussion about existing roleplays.
Please post all "Players Wanted" threads in the Roleplayers Wanted forum!
This topic is an Out Of Character part of the roleplay, ?Our Galaxy in Fragments?. Anything posted here will also show up there.Topic Tags:
Forum for completely Out of Character (OOC) discussion, based around whatever is happening In Character (IC). Discuss plans, storylines, and events; Recruit for your roleplaying game, or find a GM for your playergroup.Post a reply
-
RolePlayGateway is a site built by a couple roleplayers who wanted to give a little something back to the roleplay community. The site has no intention of earning any profit, and is paid for out of their own pockets.
If you appreciate what they do, feel free to donate your spare change to help feed them on the weekends. After selecting the amount you want to donate from the menu, you can continue by clicking on PayPal logo.
Who is online
Registered users: Agent, ajemokid, Alan23, Alexa [Bot], Amigamaru, Andaho, Aniihya, Armageddon, Arthurna, Aufeis, Blackbird26, blargman239, Bootsie, brigitteanncastro, Cazuki, ChaoticMarin*, chocolateloversuntie, Chulance*, Cloasse*, Crickets..., Crooked Thoughts*, DA_SHADOW_PHOENIX, dealing with it, Demonoid, Digital_Muse*, DivineBitterness*, DragonWriter, Eddy V. Sovorov, Eleera Cain, EmbracingIllusions*, Everscale, Gamer_Templar*, Gasmask*, Google [Bot], Google Adsense [Bot], Google Feedfetcher, GotDraggedIntoThis*, Hadespwr*, Iamdeadpool*, IckyThePenguin, Iki, Irish Wolf, Jo_Tunn*, Kai, Kay_K*, Kirinak*, Lloyd999, Lucaris*, Lucentfir, Lukipyon, Magix, Majestic-12 [Bot], MarchHare*, MistressAsh*, Mr Lynch, MrGr1nch*, MSN [Bot], MSNbot Media, mummydove, nahkahanhi, NightBlaze*, nightwolf, Nocte*, NorthernSoul, OdiOdi, Otowar, Patcharoo*, PixieCP, Porecomesis*, Princess Awinita*, Rem?us*, Risen*, RogueMinstrel, Ropeburn*, Rougeshadow, RydeDawg, Sheoul, shmband*, SlayerofYaks, Sora112112, Stanmore, Steppin' Razor*, stormwolf321, The Illusionist*, The Sickness, Tiko*, Tyro, VampyrKidd, Verloren, VitaminHeart*, wolfoftheage*, Wudgeous, xoferif, Yahoo [Bot], Youptour, Zetta*
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/RolePlayGateway/~3/N2nYb5tlf98/viewtopic.php
marlins marlins wormwood bcs bowl games phoebe prince jose reyes college football bowl schedule
Friday, February 17, 2012
Pa. charities receive gifts in Paterno's memory (AP)
[unable to retrieve full-text content]AP - One of senior Will Martin's lasting memories at Penn State was when Hall of Fame football coach Joe Paterno came to rouse some 700 dancers trying to make it through the annual charity dance marathon on campus.
make your mark stop loss stop loss thurston moore the island the island mcdonalds beating
Duke Energy earnings fall on mild weather (AP)
NEW YORK ? Duke Energy Corp.'s fourth quarter earnings fell 33 percent as mild temperatures reduced the demand for electricity while tumultuous weather increased the costs of storm repairs.
On Thursday, Duke said it earned $288 million, or 22 cents per share, in the fourth quarter, down from $427 million, or 32 cents per share, in the last quarter of 2010. Duke's earnings, adjusted to remove the effects of special items, rose 14 percent to 24 cents per share. Revenue was $3.37 billion, down from $3.46 billion.
Analysts polled by FactSet expected earnings of 21 cents per share on revenue of $3.36 billion
Results were helped by strong performance in Duke's international operations. The company operates hydro-electric power plants in Brazil. Heavy rains increased output from the plants and the company renewed and renegotiated power contracts at higher prices.
"It shows the benefit of having a portfolio of assets," said Duke CEO Jim Rogers in an interview.
Duke, which is based in Charlotte, N.C., serves 4 million electric and gas customers in the Carolinas, Kentucky, Indiana and Ohio. Temperatures in the fall and early winter were mild across much of the nation, reducing demand for electricity for heating. At the same time, maintenance costs rose as a result of storm damage, including from an unusual storm that hit the eastern seaboard in late October.
Duke was helped, though, by higher power prices. It's being allowed to charge customers more in its regulated territories in the Carolinas as it builds new power plants and electric infrastructure.
The year-earlier results included a gain from the sale of a fiber optic division of the company. In the 2011 quarter, Duke incurred costs associated with its proposed merger with in-state rival Progress Energy.
For the full year, Duke Energy Corp. earned $1.71 billion on revenue of $14.53 billion. That's up from last year's net income of $1.32 billion on revenue of $14.27 billion.
Adjusted for the effects of weather, Duke's electricity demand for the year rose 0.2 percent, less than the 1 percent rise the company had projected, according to Lynn Good, Duke's CFO. She said demand from industrial customers was relatively strong, but residential demand slowed because fewer new homes were built and existing customers cut back their use.
Good said her industrial customers tell her they expect growth to be modest in 2012.
Rogers said the company now believes that strong economic growth won't return until 2015 or 2016, two years later than the company had originally hoped. "It tells you the recovery is very anemic," he said.
Duke is seeking to buy Progress Energy Inc. in a deal that would create the largest U.S. utility. The companies had hoped to close the deal by the end of last year, but the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has twice withheld approval over concerns that the combined company will have too much pricing power.
Duke and Progress are in the process of changing their merger plan and reapplying for approval. Rogers said he expects to file the new application in the next week.
"We're hoping the third time is the charm," Rogers said.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
House speaker says payroll tax bill won't add jobs (AP)
WASHINGTON ? A compromise bill extending a payroll tax cut and jobless benefits for the long-term unemployed should be enacted, but it's not going to help the economy very much, House Speaker John Boehner said Thursday.
Boehner, R-Ohio, made the remarks hours after bipartisan congressional bargainers announced agreement on legislation extending those provisions through 2012 and heading off a steep cut in reimbursements for physicians who treat Medicare patients. The bill would assure a continued tax cut for 160 million workers and jobless benefits for several million others, delivering top election-year priorities to President Barack Obama and edging a white-hot political battle a big step closer to resolution.
Boehner told reporters the accord is "a fair agreement and one that I support."
But he said an issue over legislative language remains unresolved ? he did not reveal what it is ? and did not say if Congress would vote on the pact by Friday. That has been congressional leaders' goal.
In a jab at Obama, Boehner minimized the impact the measure would have. Last fall, Obama proposed extending the payroll tax cut and added jobless benefits through this year as major pillars of his program for creating jobs.
"Let's face it, this is an economic relief package, not a bill that is going to grow the economy and create jobs," Boehner said.
Boehner's comment underscored the GOP's desire to limit Obama's ability to declare victory over the legislation. The fight over the payroll tax cut and jobless benefits has been waged since late last year and has taken a political toll on Republicans.
Both proposals initially ran into GOP resistance, some of which lingers. But Republicans have largely concluded it would be damaging to oppose the package, particularly in this presidential and congressional election year.
That contrasted with their attitude in December, when House Republicans refused to back a bipartisan Senate bill providing a two-month extension of the tax cuts and jobless benefits while bargainers completed a yearlong deal. Within days, they retreated under barrages of criticism from Republicans and conservatives around the country.
Illustrating their reluctance to be seen as blocking a middle-class tax cut, House Republicans removed the major hurdle to the legislation earlier this week when they agreed that the payroll tax cut ? comprising about two-thirds of the measure's cost ? would not have to be paid for with spending cuts.
The House's top Democrat, Rep. Nancy Pelosi, said Democrats are mostly satisfied with the compromise and said it should be pushed through Congress quickly.
"I don't think the American people can wait another day," Pelosi, D-Calif., told reporters.
Pelosi said that while Democrats were hoping parts of the roughly $150 billion measure could be paid for with savings from winding down wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, "I don't see a scenario where our members would vote against it."
The two lead negotiators, Rep. David Camp, R-Mich., and Sen. Max Baucus, D-Mont., said shortly after midnight that they had reached agreement and that only technical issues and the drafting of legislative language remained.
The bargainers spent Wednesday trying to extinguish last-minute brushfires.
Chief among the late disputes was a proposal to save around $15 billion ? about half the $30 billion cost of the bill's extended jobless benefits ? by requiring federal workers to contribute an additional 1.5 percent of their pay to their pensions.
Democrats, including Sen. Ben Cardin and others from Maryland, home to many government employees, resisted that plan, holding up a final handshake among congressional bargainers. The provision was ultimately changed to target the boost only at newly hired federal workers, requiring them to contribute 2.3 percent of their salaries toward defined benefit pensions.
There was little controversy over the main thrust of the bill.
A 2-percentage-point cut in the 6.2 percent Social Security payroll tax, which is deducted from workers' paychecks, would run through 2012. For a family earning $50,000 a year, the cut saves $1,000 annually.
Extra unemployment benefits for people out of work the longest would be extended for the same period, and a 27 percent slash in federal reimbursements for physicians who treat Medicare patients would be averted.
Unless Congress acts, the tax cut and added jobless benefits would expire, and doctors' Medicare payments would be reduced, all on March 1.
In a GOP win, the bill would phase down the current maximum 99 weeks of jobless coverage to 73 weeks in the hardest-hit states by autumn, though in most states, people would get no more than 63 weeks.
Besides increasing new federal workers' pension contributions, more savings were supposed to come from government sales of parts of the broadcast spectrum to wireless companies. The spectrum auction was supposed to raise about $15 billion ? even after $7 billion would be spent for a new communications network for emergency workers.
The government's main welfare program would be continued through this year. Republicans won a provision barring welfare recipients from using their electronic cards to withdraw cash from teller machines in liquor stores, strip clubs and casinos.
The $20 billion price tag for preventing the cut in doctors' Medicare reimbursements would be covered partly by trimming a fund Obama's health care overhaul created to help prevent obesity and smoking. There would also be reductions in Medicaid payments to hospitals that treat high numbers of uninsured patients.
Dropped from the final compromise were proposals to renew expiring business tax cuts; a GOP plan to require unemployment recipients to work toward high school equivalency diplomas; and another Republican provision, aimed at illegal immigrants, requiring low-income people to have Social Security numbers before they can get checks from the Internal Revenue Service for the children's tax credit.
___
Associated Press writer Andrew Taylor contributed to this report.
madonna half time m.i.a super bowl coin toss half time show kelly clarkson super bowl madonna super bowl halftime giants super bowl 2012
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)