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As if you needed any more evidence, the Macalope this week brings you three tales of how Apple's competitors are once again smoking the company with the winning. Your feeble 128GB iPad is no match for the computing power of the Surface, Apple! And you may as well just roll over like a dog and let Samsung scratch your belly! Go on! ROLL OVER! NO! NO! BAD DOG! BAD DOG!
Asked and answered
Apple announced the 128GB iPad this week, finally answering the question "Can even the most mundane of updates to Apple products drive people insane?"
Writing for TechnoBuffalo, Todd Haselton asks "Who Needs a 128GB iPad? Buy a Surface Pro Instead."
Apple announced a brand new 128GB iPad this morning. Now, I understand that while reading my headline you're probably asking yourself:
What poor life choices led to me reading this article?
What do you mean who needs a 128GB iPad? Isn't more space a good thing?
Well, that would presume we're having a logical, adult conversation here. So, no, the Macalope was not asking himself that question.
Who needs a 128GB iPad? People with plenty of videos and photos and large documents, for sure.
Oh. Well, yeah. So … are we done here, or … ?
But that's not what I really meant by the question. At its starting price point of $800, the tablet is just $200 cheaper than a MacBook Air. It's also $200 cheaper than Microsoft's entry-level Surface with Windows 8 Pro tablet. Those are full featured computers that can run full desktop applications.
Uh, sure, but maybe that's not what you need. See, there's this whole class of computing device called "tablets" …
Also, about that Surface "Pro" …
"Microsoft's 64GB Surface Pro will only have 23GB usable storage"
Microsoft: redefining "professional" since 2013.
I'm sure I'll catch some flack from people who say that the iPad is cheaper than the Surface Pro …
You mean people who can do basic math? Sure.
… but let's be real: if you have $800 to spend on an iPad, you probably have the extra $200 for a beefier machine.
Oh, totally, right? Really, once numbers go over 800, they kind of become meaningless, don't they? Heck, why not get a Retina display MacBook Pro? Or a Tesla? Those are really cool.
Sure, an iPad is great for some work tasks, especially out in the field, but it's not a replacement computer for me.
Punditry 101: You, the pundit, are everyone.
Let's see if we can clear some of your confusion up, Todd. The Surface "Pro" has 23GB of usable space. The 128GB iPad has about 120GB of usable space. And costs $200 less.
Are we done here now?
It's important to remember as we go through these, people, that there are no stupid questions. What's stupid is the thought process that leads someone to ask the question. That may seem like semantics, but it leads to motive.
The Economist asks "Has Apple peaked?"
Apple spends a few months just doing what ordinary companies do, not introducing anything that turns an entire market upside down, and it's all over.
The world's most valuable firm may be past its prime
Exxon? Past its prime? Say it isn't so.
It depends on what day you ask and what stage of market insanity we're in, but with Apple's recent stock drop, Exxon was again the largest company in the world the last time the Macalope looked.
TECH blogs are abuzz. Pundits are busy pumping out predictions.
You're describing any day that ends in a "y."
But this time the fuss is not about an Apple product: it is about Samsung's latest Galaxy smartphone, which is likely to be launched in March.
Oh, psych! You got schooled Samsung-style, Apple fans! That is to say you were schooled via a dim simulacrum of how you would have been schooled had it been Apple.
Two things have whetted the bears' appetites.
Salmon and honey.
Oh, sorry. We are not talking about actual bears. Which is kind of too bad, because at least actual bears—unlike Wall Street bears—make rational decisions. Usually, of course, their decisions are based on salmon and honey, so it's kind of hard to go wrong.
"I should eat this salmon. And later eat some honey."
Nailed it, actual bear!
First, Steve Jobs, Apple's founder and creative genius, is dead.
And he apparently died since the huge run-up on the stock over last summer, if we are to believe the fallacy that Apple's share price makes a lick of sense.
Second, Apple's fantastic profit margins—38.6% on sales of $55 billion—attract competitors like sweetshops attract six-year-olds.
And so far only one of the precocious little imps has been able to score so much as a gumdrop.
The company's fans pooh-pooh the idea that Apple has peaked.
We also "pew-pew!" it by shooting imaginary lasers at it.
The firm's price-earnings ratio—11.6 at close of business on January 23rd—is not much different from Microsoft's (see chart 2). That makes Apple's shares look relatively sexy.
Paging Mat Honan. Mat Honan to the white courtesy phone, please.
A drizzle of negative news had already dampened investors' ardour before this week's earnings announcement. Apple bungled the introduction of its new mapping app, and there were rumours of cuts in component orders for the iPhone 5.
And that's what it takes. One bad app and some rumors that were pretty much disproved by strong iPhone sales from the fourth calendar quarter. Amazon, meanwhile, continues to ride high on smoke and mirrors, and they're all out of mirrors.
Yet the best way for the company to prove it is not past its prime would be for it to disrupt another big market.
True! What we disagree on is what is a reasonable time frame in which to expect it to do so.
Yet even if it produces a cheaper iPhone, pushes deep into China and wows the world with a smart TV, its shares will not reconquer last year's peak. Competition is now tougher in its core markets. Rivals will not let it disrupt new ones so easily.
OK, stop. How, exactly, have Apple's rivals shown that they are any better suited to prevent the company from disrupting new markets than they were in 2001, when the iPod was introduced? Or in 2007, when the iPhone was introduced? Or in 2010, when the iPad was introduced? Every few years or so we are resoundingly told that there is categorically no way that the next Apple product will be anything other than a dismal failure, because the category has already been tried and there's nothing there. Then Apple thinks around the problem and everyone coughs uncomfortably for three years and the whole thing starts all over again.
That may eventually be the case, but so far the onus is on Apple's detractors to prove it. Because the company's track record shows otherwise. Come on, you're the ones who have been wrong, not Apple.
The Macalope's not always right about Apple. He thought iOS would do better than it has in terms of market share versus Android, and he didn't expect iPads to do so well in the enterprise market. So maybe he's wrong again and Apple will be content to shovel out incremental upgrades for the rest of its existence.
But that doesn't sound like the Apple we've come to know. Steve Jobs didn't just run the company, he rebuilt the company. Does it seem likely he rebuilt it to be a timid tweaker of existing product lines? Not to this be-antlered observer.
Saying a thing makes it true
Move over, Apple, because Samsung is the new hotness. How do we know? Someone wrote it on the Internet.
"Samsung Just Can't Stop Beating Apple."
This tiny string of anecdotes flimsily strung together by the Atlantic Wire's Rebecca Greenfield doesn't lie, people!
Samsung has won the latest round of its neverending patent war with Apple …
Yeah, remember that $1 billion judgement against Samsung that Apple scored in the middle of last year? Well, get this! Samsung totally won against Apple … by not having that dollar figure made even bigger!
Not losing even worse is the new winning.
… and at just the right moment in its cultural ascendance, giving the South Korean gadget giant another notch on its "better-than-Apple" belt.
Knowing Samsung, it probably has an actual belt that it calls its "better-than-Apple" belt, because that's what companies that are better than other companies do. Have belts that show how awesome they are. It's probably got a buckle the size of a Galaxy Note.
Looking over the various appeals from both sides on that $1 billion jury ruling from this summer, U.S. District Judge Lucy Koh denied motions late Tuesday night from both sides for a retrial and ruled that Samsung didn't willfully infringe on Apple's patents, meaning it didn't copy specific "trade dresses" on purpose.
Right! Now you can prove that Samsung is only a copycat savant, not that it copied the designs on purpose. In your face, Apple! Not that this ruling has anything to do with the payout Apple already won. Samsung still has to pony up $1 billion, but total moral victory! And in business, aren't moral victories what it's all about?
What are these profits of which you speak?
Because Samsung's phone designs weren't willfully a rip-off, it doesn't owe Apple any more money …
Just a billion dollars. That's like hardly even worth mentioning.
While Samsung's Galaxy S phones enjoyed major fanboy love, the company reported record-high profits.
Unlike Apple which … erm … always gets major fanboy love and reports record-high profits.
Wait, so is "fanboy love" now a good thing? The Macalope thought it was so very lame when people lined up for phones. He remembers seeing that in a commercial once. Very confusing.
Well, you can't make an argument omelet without breaking a few of the eggs of reality, right?


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Monday, December 21, 2009
Chive, Mascarpone, and Pine Nut Dip
First, chopped chives were pureed in olive oil with a pinch of salt. That puree was left to sit in the refrigerator for an hour before it was poured through a sieve to remove the chive solids. Then, pine nuts were toasted in the oven while crostini crisped. The pine nuts were chopped once cool. Mascarpone and cream cheese were to be whisked together, but given the thickness of that mixture, I opted to use a hand mixer instead of a whisk. I changed the recipe by adding a minced shallot to boost the onion flavor, and that was incorporated into the mascarpone mixture. Next, the chopped pine nuts were added. Last the chive oil was poured over top and not too thoroughly folded into the dip so that splotches of green were visible.
This was well-liked at the party, even Kurt let me know that it was really good, but sadly, I only had a small taste of it. That's why I'm already planning on making it again just for us to enjoy at home. The flavor of the chive oil is lovely, but I was glad I added the shallot as well. I'll definitely repeat that addition when I whip up another bowl of it.
Posted by lisa is cooking at Monday, December 21, 2009
18 comments:
Now this sounds yummy and the perfect side to take to a dinner party. I must remember it, as I'm going to several in the upcoming weeks and want to add a bit of diversity! Thanks for sharing.ReplyDelete
What a gorgeous dip! So flavorful!ReplyDelete
Looks very tasty. definitely a dip I'd serve at a gathering or party. Heck, I'd even eat this for dinner. Just pass me some crusty bread and I'll be good to go.ReplyDelete
Great dip, this would make the most fabulous bruscetta!ReplyDelete
This looks gorgeous Lisa. I love mascarpone and I love chives, so this must be a great combination for a good side dish!ReplyDelete
Your posts have always made me so excited and eager to try the recipe out! This is also a perfect spread!ReplyDelete
I love learning party food ideas, your dip is so wonderful, must try! Thanks for the link!ReplyDelete
i need to get some mascarpone and play around with it--i just don't have enough experience with it! this looks like a great concoction, and the pine nuts on top are my favorite part. :)ReplyDelete
Oh this dop sounds so flavourful and perfect on bruscheta, on pita or even crackers.ReplyDelete
- AnonymousDecember 22, 2009 at 2:58 PM
A delicious dip with pine nuts! Such a great party idea!ReplyDelete
What a delicious sounding combo! I've been trying to come up with easy appetizers to make all day. This is going on the list!ReplyDelete
- AnonymousDecember 22, 2009 at 6:07 PM
This dip does look festive, even though I don't like chives! :DReplyDelete
Sounds easy to make. Would love to try it.ReplyDelete
What a tasty and chunky looking dip. I love chives and pine nuts, love the combi :)ReplyDelete
long time eh? was on my vacation! this is looking soooo pretty :)addition of pine nuts is the part i love most! thanx for sharing and have a very happy holidays lisa!! merry Christmas!!ReplyDelete
Fabulous looking recipe. This will go over big time in my household...ReplyDelete
Oh no, that's the worst when you only get a few bites! Your dip looks so unique and delicious!ReplyDelete
I'm putting together a sample menu for a swanky Super Bowl party and this is absolutely going onto it. Beautiful as always. Thanks for sharing.ReplyDelete

subset: commoncrawl


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Joe Andruzzi, a former Super Bowl winner with the New England Patriots, was among those who sprang into action to help survivors.
Members from the athlete's foundation – the Joe Andruzzi Foundation which helps to tackle cancer by providing financial support for patients and their families – were competing in the marathon.
When the bombs were detonated, the three-time Super Bowl champion was photographed carrying a woman to safety by the Boston Globe.
He later tweeted that he and his wife were unharmed as well as offering prayers for the victims and their families.
Andruzzi's family has somewhat of a reputation for heroism after it was revealed that three of his brothers were firemen in New York who responded to the terrorist attacks on 9/11.
Regarding the photo, the former footballer released the following statement: "Marathon Monday should be about uplifting stories, personal challenges and fundraising milestones, but today's bombings irrevocably changed that.
"While I appreciate the interest in hearing our perspective on today's horrific events, the spotlight should remain firmly on the countless individuals - first responders, medics, EMTs, runners who crossed the finish line and kept on running straight to give blood, and the countless civilians who did whatever they could to save lives.
"They were the true heroes. Our thoughts prayers go out to all those affected by this senseless tragedy."
the look on their face's tell the story


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Say what? A few property owners seek higher assessments
ROCKFORD — With an appraisal in hand showing their southeast Rockford home had been over-assessed by about 37 percent, Gary and Terry Peterson thought the property tax appeal they filed earlier this fall was in the bag.
But the plan backfired.
The preliminary ruling from the Winnebago County Board of Review said the home actually had been undervalued. Now the Petersons are facing the potential of a $757 increase in the assessed value of their property — and the additional taxes that go with it.
"We're pretty much aghast ... it's just a slight increase, but it's enough that it brought it up to an over-assessment of 40.6 percent," Terry Peterson said, pointing out the difference between the county's property value estimate and the one from their private appraisal. "We're hoping to have our say, and they'll see there's an error."
The Petersons are in rare company. Just 13 of roughly 6,000 property assessment challenges this fall resulted in increases, as determined in preliminary rulings by the review board. Almost all the increases were handed out when submitted appraisals showed more square footage or more features than the township assessor had on record, Supervisor of Assessments Tom Walsh said.
In a few cases, the increase in value was exactly what the property owner wanted. They fought for a higher value and the higher taxes that go with it. The owners of seven properties in Winnebago County requested and were granted higher assessments, at least from the preliminary decisions made this fall.
"There were some requests for increases that (the board) did not grant because there was no compelling evidence that an increase was needed," Walsh said. "There were just a few people that said they thought it would be good for a neighborhood if the values didn't go down as much as they have, but the sales showed they should have gone down."
One of the four residents who asked for higher assessments said she did so as a matter of principle. The woman, who asked not to be identified, said she knew her properties were worth more because of recent improvements and was willing to accept the higher taxes in order to help stop the erosion of property values in the area. Others who sought increases either declined to be interviewed or didn't respond to a request from the Register Star.
Rockford attorney Jim Tuneberg, who is hired to file dozens of tax appeals each year, said he's never been asked in 25 years to seek an increased assessment.
"The only time I've seen a raise be requested is first and foremost when there's a mathematical or scrivener's (clerical) error," Tuneberg said.
Other motivations could be a vested interest in seeing area property values rise — as in a tax increment finance district — and "last, but very least, noble purposes," Tuneberg said.
Karl and Peggy Otto were the only homeowners in Boone County who asked for a higher assessment among more than 1,300 challenges filed in the past two years, according to Boone County Supervisor of Assessments Pat Elder.
"They were probably laughing at us the whole time," Peggy said.
But the couple had made significant renovations and remodeled several portions of their home north of Belvidere. They felt it was worth more than the assessed value and wanted to see a higher value as they prepared to sell.
If they tried to sell it for what they felt it was worth, with an assessment far below that rate, "again there would be loud laughter," Karl said.
"People now have such a distorted image of what a house is worth. If you tried to build our house right now it would cost twice what we're asking," Peggy said.
Tuneberg said homeowners shouldn't put too much stock into the assessor's value to determine the market worth of the home. He said asking for an increased value may actually be a deterrent to selling the house.
"In most cases a higher tax bill discourages a buyer," Tuneberg said. "I've yet to see a Realtor emphasize the market value by solely concurring with an assessor's value."
For homeowners like the Petersons, and the thousands of others looking for a lower property value and the tax relief that comes with it, there is still hope. The board of review is conducting hearings for those who object to the preliminary findings of the board. The Petersons expect to see the board in January, Terry said. Statistically speaking, they have a good chance of overturning the decision. The board has granted reductions 82 percent of the time.
Kevin Haas: 815-987-1410; firstname.lastname@example.com; @KevinMHaas
Tax challenges
Year Winnebago Boone
2008 2,716 557
2009 5,414 499
2010 5,318 1,170
2011 7,469 612
2012 6,316 589
2013 6,134* 724
*158 people withdrew their challenge this year after filing.
Source: Winnebago County Supervisor of Assessments, Boone County Supervisor of Assessments


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My mother and three siblings pose here on the dining room steps with their mother, Kerma Minor. The white painted-brick farmhouse was surrounded by 330 acres of rolling hills studded by her daddy's prized cows. This was my mother's home, Ceylon Lane, Greene Township, Greene County, Pennsylvania–where the Donald Minor family weathered the Depression and World War II. Home on the home farm that her daddy had inherited from his daddy, Robert Minor, who had been bequeathed the home farm by his dad. Francis Marion Minor had in turn received the 330 acres from his father, John Pearson Minor, as per item 7 in his will of 28 February 1867:
I give, devise and bequeath unto my son, Francis Marion, his heirs and assigns the tract of land whereon he and I reside, known as the Myers farm, containing three hundred and twenty nine acres more or less…
Just when, I have wondered, did the former Myers farm become my family's home farm. Last week I unearthed a document in the Minor Papers that provides an important clue.
An article of Agreement made and concluded between James McFarland of Cumberland Township (housejoiner) and John P. Minor of Green Township both of Green County Pennsylvania on the twenty second of February eighteen hundred and thirty one as follows
John P. Minor was to purchase and supply all the materials for the project, and furnish board and lodging to James McFarland for the duration of the project. In addition Mr. McFarland would receive $300 upon the satisfactory conclusion of all work.
For his part, James McFarland was to
complete the joiner work of the brick house formerly occupied by Jacob Myers.
The agreement stipulates that he was then to finish the floors and petition three rooms off on each floor
according to the construction of the said house.
Mr. McFarland was also charged with making cupboards, and sashes for the upstairs window, and casing and fixing off all the windows in the whole house.
and run up two pair of stairs in the dwelling house ….a pair of stairs to be run up outside on the porch and a drysink on the inside byside of chimney the doors to be taken down and the facings new and then hung and mantle peaces and cheer boards and wash boards and all other things necessary to complete the building is to be done by said McFarland.
The house described bears a striking resemblance to the house my mother described as her childhood home. For now, til new evidence surfaces to contradict me, I believe that the brick house, formerly occupied by Jacob Myers, was handsomely renovated by one James McFarland in 1831, and subsequently occupied by generations of John P. Minor descendants.


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Thanks to my friends at Wonkette, it appears this whole smear started in the most predictable of places: the lying liar Frank Luntz:
Well, nobody could've anticipated ….
This almost seems too petty to be believed, except it's such a classic example of how the right-wing smear machine works that I just had to share it.
Our travel through the conservative cesspool begins at The New York Times, where we have this innocuous little story about the White House executive pastry chef leaving his position in June. Here's the tantalizing lede:
WASHINGTON — The first lady, Michelle Obama, is soon to lose her executive pastry chef, Bill Yosses. And she is partly to blame.
Ooh, yummy! What did that wretched woman do now? Ah, it's all fun and games, as the story goes on to say that FLOTUS has inspired Chef Yosses' newfound interest in healthy food. Oh, okay! They were joshing us. Indeed, Yosses was originally famous for his rich desserts, but he changed his ways at the direction of Mrs. Obama and has a new culinary calling. Not only has he changed his own diet, he's found a new passion for creating healthier yet still delicious dessert treats:
She has piqued his interest in the relationship between food and health, he said in a recent telephone interview, so the man who made the Hawaiian chocolate-malted ganache for the White House state dinner for France is now headed to New York with an aim to teach children and adults about eating better. In the meantime, he has given up his usual breakfast doughnuts for a smoothie made with apple, kale, spinach and ginger — from time to time.
Oh! So the Times was just using a time-honored literary device to pull readers into the story. Nicely done. The chef further tells the Times,
The result — oatmeal bars, baked apples and pear-quince cobblers, among many others — will have a lasting impact on his eating habits, as will Mrs. Obama.
"She has done it with humor and good will, without preaching, just the way you would hope the 'Mom in chief' would do," Mr. Yosses said. He called her "definitely an inspiring boss, a combination of spontaneity and seriousness."
Hugs and kisses all around! The openly gay chef will get to finally live with his husband of three years — they've been separated for their entire 11-year-relationship — and Chef Yosses has found a new career direction. So, a nice little (dare I say it?) fluff piece, yes? Nothing to see here, move along.
Unless you're The Daily Caller, of course! Over at Tucker Carlson's Little Conservative Lie Machine, a nothing little story about the White House pastry chef is given a complete 180 and turned into a major smear of FLOTUS.
Here's the screen shot:
Nice way to take quotes out of context there, guys! See how they mashed up the Times piece to put an entirely new spin on what Chef Yosses actually said:
White House executive pastry chef Bill Yosses is resigning after First Lady Michelle Obama fundamentally changed his job duties to focus on healthier food.
Yosses is leaving the White House in June to work on a new project focusing on "food literacy" and The New York Times says Michelle is "partly to blame." The openly gay chef was hired by Laura Bush in 2007 to make his trademark cookie plates and sugar sculptures. Mrs. Obama took over in 2009 and ordered Yosses to make healthier plates in smaller portions.
Yosses began replacing butter with fruit puree and sugar with honey and agave. But Yosses was never fully committed to the new policy.
"I don't want to demonize cream, butter, sugar and eggs," Yosses said, noting that his departure from the White House is a "bittersweet decision."
Oh, I see what you did there! That nice twisting of facts and quotes to give them an entirely new context is what we in the business call "fundamentally true but essentially bullshit." Just enough plausible deniability to prevent a lawsuit in these United States — but don't try that shit in Britain, Patrick Howley! You'd get your ass sued.
Oh, and give them extra points for actually linking to the original New York Times story. That takes balls. It appears the business model of The Daily Failure is to assume nobody follows links. Considering how lazy the right wing readership is, I'd say that's a pretty good gamble.
But our little story isn't finished, kids. Nope: along come the usual rabble of right-wing idiots like Tennessee's own Marsha Blackburn to post the "smear" version of the Chef Yosses story on Facebook, with a snarkly little anti-Obama quip to feed her brain-dead followers:
This takes talent, it really does. This is how the conservative bubble operates. None of this would work if just one person followed the links from a Daily Caller story and actually compared the two versions. But they don't. Clearly Marsha Blackburn didn't — she didn't need to. Because what matters to them is not what's actually true, but what they want to be true. And they want to believe that even the White House pastry chef hates Michelle Obama. The entire right-wing spin machine is created to make a fringe minority believe they are a persecuted majority. It's how the outrage stays alive.
This is not something Democrats need to aspire to in any way, shape or form, but it is something we need to be aware of the next time someone tries to launch another Swift Boat attack on a war hero or tries to sell death panels and FEMA camps to the masses.


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by David Kidd-Hewitt *
Wicked and explosive secrets
are revealed in this NEW gripping tale of vicious murders, corruption, love and friendships.
Authentically set in bawdy, raucous Georgian London in 1822, Principal Bow Street Runner George Ruthven's unexpected partnership with risqué tavern entertainer and potman Billy Lilly and astrologer Will Poole, draw the reader into this fast-moving, vivid, witty and compelling adventure the like of which has never been told.
Daring dark arts collide with political intrigue, sexual encounters and the most heinous conspiracy imaginable.
Could Billy's sweetheart Hannah be the key to a plot that threatens death and destruction to the British government? Meticulous detective work by George Ruthven unravels and uncovers the startling truth.
Together with Billy and Will, George must solve the clues of the mysterious Cato Conundrum or unthinkable consequences for the whole country will ensue. The remarkable final chase to thwart the plotters involves an astonishing twist that will astound.
" You have chosen an ingenious plot idea, and we like the whole concept of a series about a Bow Street Runner. "
Mary Jones: Submissions Editor, Gregory and Company
* Visit AMAZON to order your copy now. Available in either Kindle or paperback format
Although defeated by the sheer bravery of George Ruthven and his Bow Street colleagues, Ruthven suspects all is not as appears. He becomes convinced that certain senior judicial and political figures are still behind such a conspiracy.
While Billy and Will are following their own nefarious adventures into the dark arts, chillingly constructing a HAND OF GLORY from an executed murderer to steal some valuable George Morland oil paintings,
Billy's sweetheart, Hannah, is kidnapped. Her abduction brings Bowman tavern potman Billy into unexpected contact with George Ruthven and it starts to become clear to George that Hannah could, in some mysterious way, be the key to a conundrum that links the original Cato Street Conspiracy of 1820 with an equally traitorous plot about to be unleashed.
The excitement of the final chase to thwart the plotters and solve THE CATO CONUNDRUM, involves a remarkable twist of circumstances that blows apart the original Cato Street Conspiracy, revealing a secret that has never been told outside of the few who uncovered it.
It has remained an untold secret - until now.
(see MORE below or sidebar)
"A rattling good read " says Gordon Casbeard


text:
For the first time, researchers have converted scar tissue that forms after a heart attack into regenerated heart muscle using microRNA, according to an animal study reported in Circulation Research, an American Heart Association journal.
After a heart attack, heart muscle doesn't easily regenerate and it accumulates scar tissue, made up of cells called fibroblasts — increasing risk for heart failure.
"Researchers have tried various approaches, including the use of stem cells, to regenerate damaged heart muscle tissue," said Victor J. Dzau, M.D., the study's senior author and James B. Duke Professor of Medicine at Duke University Medical Center in Durham, N.C. "This is the first study to use microRNA, which are small molecules that control gene expression, to reprogram fibroblasts into heart muscle cells. We have not only shown evidence of this tissue regeneration in cell cultures, but also in mice."
Using microRNA is simpler than many other tissue-regenerating approaches, said Dzau, who is also Chancellor for Health Affairs at Duke University. For example, stem cells aren't easy to work with and have ethical issues surrounding their use, he said. "This research represents a major advance in regenerative medicine overcoming the difficulties encountered with stem cells, and may be applied to other conditions of tissue damage such as stroke and spinal cord injury."
MicroRNAs serve as master switches. Each microRNA regulates genes, turning them on or off. Dzau's team identified a combination of three microRNA types that convert fibroblasts to muscle cells.
Researchers will next study whether microRNAs repair damaged hearts in larger animals and improve heart function. If those studies prove safe and effective, they will start human studies, Dzau said.
"If everything comes to fruition, I think we will see this as a therapy in the next decade," Dzau said. "Conceivably, we'll use it to regenerate hearts damaged by heart attacks, avoiding heart failure and saving lives."
Co-authors are Tilanthi M. Jayawardena, Ph.D.; Bakytbek Egemnazarov, Ph.D.; Elizabeth A. Finch, Ph.D.; Lunan Zhang, M.D.; J. Alan Payne, B.A.; Kumar Pandya, Ph.D.; Zhiping Zhang, M.D., Ph.D.; Paul Rosenberg, M.D.; and Maria Mirotsou, Ph.D. Author disclosures and sources of funding are on the manuscript.
Statements and conclusions of study authors published in American Heart Association scientific journals are solely those of the study authors and do not necessarily reflect the association's policy or position. The association makes no representation or guarantee as to their accuracy or reliability. The association receives funding primarily from individuals; foundations and corporations (including pharmaceutical, device manufacturers and other companies) also make donations and fund specific association programs and events. The association has strict policies to prevent these relationships from influencing the science content. Revenues from pharmaceutical and device corporations are available at www.heart.org/corporatefunding.
Circulation Research


text:
In planning to have a regular skin care habit, it is recommended that you know those excellent ingredients that can satisfy your skin concern. Haloxyl for example is a breakthrough discovery for cosmetics industry. This excellent ingredient is a combination of active substances able to absorb and eliminate color-blood pigments in the skin that are responsible for dark circles beneath the eyes. It also has an anti-inflammatory effect and reinforces firmness, flexibility and tone of the eye area.
Haloxyl is an anti-aging ingredient often formulated in the most booming anti-aging skin care products on the market as of today. It has been recognized as the primary ingredient in products that make claims to reduce dark-circles under the eye region. Dermajuv is the company that manufactures this product and they don't post much information about the compound. Dermajuv is a major player in the cosmetics industry. As this is a quite new ingredient to most people out there, it is worth noting that insiders believe Haloxyl could be found in various anti-aging products as well as wrinkle creams and skin care lotions.
In addition, Haloxyl is a synthetic ingredient found in some skincare products that is advertised as being proven of capable in reducing the appearance of dark under-eye circles, while promoting an overall improved complexion. The ingredient is known to be included in a range of anti-wrinkle and anti-aging formulas, including certain creams, lotions and gels. Manufactured and distributed by a company called Dermajuv, this ingredient appears to be promoted as one of the foremost substances for reducing the visibility of under-eye circles.
Referring to aging problems, there are actually two ways to treat dark under eye circles:
1. The use an eye care product that features natural green and red tea extracts. Natural ingredients, especially those from the sea, (algae and silk are other great ingredients in anti-aging skin treatments) can really help treat the skin's deficiency. For that reason, it's not uncommon to see these ingredients show up in some of the latest spa treatments.
2. The use of an advanced clinically tested COSMECEUTICAL-infused skin cream or serum, such as one that features Haloxyl. As discussed above, Haloxyl is a combination of active ingredients able to attract and eliminate colored blood pigments in the skin that are responsible for dark circles under the eyes. It also has an anti-inflammatory effect and reinforces firmness and tone of the eye area.
The author had several research on beauty products designed to investigate its effects on one's health and lifestyle. She had also made several reviews tackling one such as skin care . She welcomes all those seeking professional help for their skin.


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Pet owners: Take proper care of your pets or be fined
The Ionia Department of Public Safety is reminding residents that a city ordinance outlining pet owner responsibilities will be enforced by its officers for the health and safety of the public as well as pets.
The City of Ionia Ordinance 491, Chapter 608, requires that dogs may not run free in the city, and that the pet's owner or caretaker is responsible for ensuring that the dog is confined to its yard or on a leash when off the owner's property.
"Failure to follow any of the ordinance regulations will result in a violation, and you will be responsible for any fines, costs or charges that arise from the violation," said IDPS Deputy Director John Odette.
Municipal civil infractions for simple ordinance violations range from $25 to $140. Animal cruelty charges also can include jail time.
If a pet is kept outside, the owner must provide adequate shelter from sun and rain, and also clean water and food daily. Barking by a dog that disturbs the community also is a violation of the city animal ordinance.
"Please have consideration for your neighbors and don't allow your dog to bark in excess," Odette said.
Owners are required to have their dogs vaccinated for rabies — and to keep the vaccination current — and must have a current dog license, available from the Ionia County Treasurer's Office.
Pet owners also must pick up their dog's excrement, whether walking on private or public property, and dispose of it in a safe and sanitary manner.
Residents who have complaints about animals should call Ionia County Central Dispatch at the non-emergency number, 616-527-0400. Dispatchers will send out Ionia County Animal Control or an officer with the local law enforcement agency.
"When this ordinance is followed, it will help ensure you provide a more humane environment for your dog and will help you to become a better, more responsible pet owner," said Odette.
Follow Karen Bota on Twitter @KarenB_ISS.


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SEATTLE, WA – College athletes experiencing in-season shoulder instability regularly return to play within one week of injury, but developed recurrent instability in 63% of cases, according to research presented today at the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine's (AOSSM) Annual Meeting. This latest information may help guide team physicians in providing the most optimal treatment plans for injured players.
"We examined 45 athletes who suffered an anterior shoulder instability event, and found that 33 (73%) returned to play for at least part of the season after a median 5 days lost from competition," noted lead author MAJ Jonathan F. Dickens, MD, from the John A. Feagin Jr. Sports Medicine Fellowship and Keller Army Hospital in West Point, New York. "While a large portion of the athletes in this observational study return to mid-season sport, only 36% completed the season without subsequent instability."
Data from this study were collected over two academic years from three intercollegiate athletic institutions. All patients underwent a standardized accelerated rehab program and were not subject to shoulder immobilization or surgery. Athletes included in the sample were both male and female, and participated in sports including basketball, soccer, lacrosse, and football. Athletes with a subluxation injury (partial dislocation) of the shoulder were 5.3 times more likely to return in the same season compared to those with a complete dislocation. The most common reason for athletes not returning was the inability to reach sufficient shoulder function for athletic participation.
"These early results should be valuable to physicians caring for the in-season athlete with shoulder instability, as we have not yet reached a consensus treatment approach on these injuries," noted Dickens. "More research is needed to determine the effect of multiple recurrent instability events on long-term outcomes and this study will hopefully be a first good step in understanding this relationship."
While the study is still relatively limited in sample size, it remains the largest prospective study evaluating shoulder instability in in-season athletes.
The American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM) is a world leader in sports medicine education, research, communication and fellowship, and includes national and international orthopaedic sports medicine leaders. The Society works closely with many other sports medicine specialists, including athletic trainers, physical therapists, family physicians, and others to improve the identification, prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of sports injuries. AOSSM is also a founding partner of the STOP Sports Injuries campaign to prevent overuse and traumatic injuries in kids. For more information on AOSSM or the STOP Sports Injuries campaign, visit http://www.sportsmed.org or http://www.stopsportsinjuries.org


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The BBC Concert Orchestra and its principal conductor Keith Lockhart offered a refreshing program of British music in its Philharmonic Society concert at Segerstrom Concert Hall on Tuesday. For once, a touring orchestra wasn't bringing coals to Newcastle. For once, we got to hear a good chunk of repertoire which is inexcusably neglected by our own orchestras.
The BBC Concert Orchestra, formed in 1952 and not to be confused with the BBC Symphony Orchestra, is what is known as a radio orchestra, performing for the BBC's radio and television programs, at the BBC Proms, and many other events. Its charge is versatility, to perform classical, film music, jazz, crossover, whatever. This season it performs in London in The Rest is Noise festival, exploring the repertoire in Alex Ross' celebrated history of 20th century music of the same name. Its composer-in-residence is Jonny Greenwood of Radiohead.
The American Lockhart is, of course, the longtime conductor of the Boston Pops, and principal conductor of the BBC Concert Orchestra since 2010. Tuesday's program featured music by Britten, George Butterworth and Elgar.
It opened with Britten's potent "Four Sea Interludes" from "Peter Grimes" in a carefully calibrated reading. The orchestra, listed at just 56 members (there seemed to be a few extras here), brought a brilliant but never brittle sound to bear, the woodwinds standing out in shining light. Only the final "Storm" seemed a little underpowered, lacking in bass and explosiveness.
Lockhart showed himself to be an admirable and conscientious musician, coaxing lyrical lines and flow all evening, pointing up details and forging solid structures in well-tailored readings. But it soon became clear he would offer nothing either unleashed or outlandish. The concert was far from stuffy, but it had a feeling of correctness. The big moments lacked something, not just in the orchestra's not-quite overpowering sound (which had something to do with its size), but in Lockhart's gentlemanly ways.
Still, the performance of Elgar's "Enigma Variations" had much to cherish, particularly in Lockhart's warm and vivid characterization of each variation, each a portrait of one of the composer's friends. A listener could readily picture the various personalities, imagine how much Elgar loved his wife, and sense the dignity, intelligence, reserve and boisterousness of others.
Cellist Sophie Shao, winner of an Avery Fisher Career Grant, gave a thoughtful and strongly phrased reading of Elgar's Cello Concerto, avoiding the overcooked dramatics that many cellists bring to the score. Her rhythms, even in quietude, were gently pointed. Her playing highlighted the delicate and spare aspects of this autumnal music. Lockhart and the orchestra supported her handsomely.
The program was rounded out by Butterworth's "The Banks of Green Willow," a lovely folk-song idyll, played with euphonious grace. The encore was the glowing "Slumber Scene" from Elgar's "The Wand of Youth."
Contact the writer: 714-796-6811 or email@example.com


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Before addressing the main subject of today's semon, Huzoor (aba) wished to elaborate on previous week's sermon, which was related to the importance of the recitation of durood sharif in the month of Muharram by the Shia and the Sunni of one another. The news in the media has provided even more evidence to what Huzoor (aba) had stated in this regard. We should remember that both parties fighting against one another are included in the Muslim Ummah, and the Holy Prophet (saw) said that a Muslim is someone from whose hand and tongue others are safe (Muslim). If we follow this practice, bloodshed and many conflicts can be prevented. The protection that the Holy Prophet (saw) granted the Muslims is of such great degree that if one recites the Kalima, even if it is done so under pressure, he becomes a Muslim and no one then is allowed to kill or persecute him. Therefore, the groups who claim to be Muslims, yet are fighting with one another really need to understand the meanings of durood sharif, so that conflicts can be prevented and peace re-instated.
On the other hand, the subject of recitation of durood sharif is also directly linked to the status that is granted to the Promised Messiah (as) by the Holy Prophet (saw) himself, as he was included as the highest among the spiritual family of the Holy Prophet (saw). Regarding Imam Mahdi, our beloved master (saw) said: "When you see him (Imam Mahdi), then certainly perform bai'at to him even if you have to crawl over your knees through snow-clad mountains because he (Imam Mahdi) will be the Khalifa of God." The Promised Messiah (as) claims that such an esteemed status was granted to him as a result of the immense love he had for the Prophet (saw) and due to the amount of durood sharif he recited. The vision that the Promised Messiah (as) experienced where Hadhrat Fatima (rz) holds his head in her lap (reference to previous week's Friday sermon) also points to the fact that he was included in the spiritual family of the Holy Prophet (saw). At one occasion, when the Promised Messiah (as) was sick, before his claim to Messiahship, it was revealed to him that he should recite the durood. This is yet another evidence that the Promised Messiah (as) is linked directly to the Holy Prophet (saw) in the eyes of God and the Holy Prophet (saw) himself. Huzoor (aba) reminded that the Jamaat Ahmadiyya thus becomes greatly responsible to recite the durood sharif abundantly because we believe in the Imam of the day, who was part of the Holy Prophet (saw)'s family. In view of the current Palestine/Israel crisis taking place and resulting in the immense loss of life in the Palestine camp, Huzoor (aba) expressed his point of view saying that no Muslim nation has voiced any objection against this brutal injustice being done. At a couple of occasions, when such an objection has been raised, polite and cowardly statements were made which amounted to no voice at all. In contrast, some groups in the western countries have voiced strong condemnations against Israel and made powerful demonstrations. It appears that Muslim nations have become insensitive to a degree beyond imagination to the perils of their brothers, and therefore, it is incumbent on the Jamaat Ahmadiyya to abundantly recite the durood sharif in order to help the Muslim Ummah and supplicate to God, as supplication is the only weapon to achieve the victory of Islam.
Huzoor (aba) then turned towards the main topic of today's sermon which is to announce the new year of Waqf-e-Jadid. Huzoor (aba) presented the duties of Muslims in terms of financial sacrifice in view of Quranic teachings. Huzoor (aba) first recited the following verse:
"As to the men that give alms, and the women that give alms, and those who lend to Allah a goodly loan — it will be increased manifold for them, and theirs will also be an honourable reward (57:19)."
The Promised Messiah (as) elaborating on this verse has said that God does not need money, but He takes it upon Himself to reward those who make sacrifices in His cause to express his love for such people. Therefore any sacrifice made for the sake of God is greatly valued by Him, especially the sacrifice that is made for the sake of propagation of religion is highly valuable in God's eyes, on the condition that this is done purely to please Allah. Those who make such sacrifices are rewarded by Allah, and we witness and experience this in our daily lives, which in itself is a favor of God for those who enter the bai'at of the Imam of the day. Ahmadis should always be grateful to Allah, and it is a result of this gratitude that we progress in financial sacrifices despite the difficult economic situations. We must never become negligent in our worship or our financial sacrifices, or in any other commandments, because a purposeful life is one that is lived to attain nearness of Allah. Huzoor (aba) then recited the following verse:
"Know that the life of this world is only a sport and a pastime, and an adornment, and a source of boasting among yourselves, and of rivalry in multiplying riches and children. This life is like the rain the vegetation produced whereby rejoices the tillers. Then it dries up and thou seest it turn yellow; then it becomes broken pieces of straw. And in the Hereafter there is severe punishment, and also forgiveness from Allah, and His pleasure. And the life of this world is nothing but temporary enjoyment of deceitful things (57:21)."
It is only Jamaat Ahmadiyya that is making significant sacrifices in the world today, whereas other Muslims spend extravagantly on futile customs. At this point, Huzoor (aba) also drew the attention of Ahmadis that they must not forget their objectives of Bai'at as a result of peer pressure. If we give into such pressures, we will be amongst those who are inclined towards worldly pursuits, which take us away from the objective of our creation and therefore, we will fail to become the recipients of Allah's blessings. God tests His people by giving to them, and then wishes to see how that wealth is spent. If spent in the way of God, rewards are reaped. However, if spent in worldly pursuits, then we must remember that this is a temporary abode. God paints a picture in the Quran likening this to a beautiful lush field of crop, whose owner is relishing the profits of his harvest. However, before the crop can be harvested, it is destroyed by strong winds or other natural disaster. This is a parable to teach the Believers that worldly pursuits are but a way to despair. One who forgets God will reap only punishment. Huzoor (aba) then recited the following Quranic verse:
"Vie with one another in seeking forgiveness from your Lord and for a Garden the value whereof is equal to the value of the heaven and the earth; it has been prepared for those who believe in Allah and His Messenger. That is Allah's grace; He bestows it upon whomsoever He pleases, and Allah is the Lord of immense grace (57:22)."
It is the duty of a Believer to seek forgiveness from God and as result, to attain paradise in form of receiving special favors and blessings of Allah in this world and again, in the Hereafter. When one experiences these favors in this world, then his belief in the rewards of the Hereafter becomes even stronger, where the rewards are limitless.
When a companion of the Holy Prophet (saw) asked where is Hell, when Paradise extends over the entire universe. The Holy Prophet (saw) stated that paradise and hell are but two states of the soul and they co-exist in the same space; it is the spiritual state you find yourself in that will determine hell and paradise for you. May Allah enable us to continuously receive His bountiful favors, Ameen. Huzoor (aba) reminded us the importance to recite the following prayer:
'Our Lord, let not our hearts become perverse after Thou hast guided us; and bestow on us mercy from Thyself; surely, Thou alone art the Bestower (3:9).'
In context of this verse, Huzoor (aba) re-emphasized that we should never feel that these financial schemes are burdensome and too heavy on our pockets. It is indeed a favor of Allah that the Jamaat of the Imam of the day has been likened to that of the early days, and we should pray that the spirit of sacrifice is instill in our future generations as well. The Promised Messiah (as) has said that making financial sacrifices is a way to improve the condition of one's faith, which can only be achieved through sincerity and love for the cause. All those who enter the fold of Ahmadiyyat should pledge to make financial sacrifices as well.
Huzoor (aba) said that those Ahmadis who have become firmly rooted in the Jamaat are exemplary in their sacrifices, but there is a shortcoming among the new-comers, which has resulted due to a weakness in the efforts of local Jamaats. Where efforts have been invested, results show tremendous outcome. It should be remembered that it was a mere favor of Allah that He enabled you to become an Ahmadi, therefore, newcomers along with children should be encouraged to participate in financial sacrifices. If greater efforts are invested, especially in increasing the numbers of participants, then results will be more fruitful InshaAllah.
On this note, Huzoor (aba) announced the beginning of the new year of Waqf-e-Jadid, and revealed the total collections from last year as £2 575 000. The country-rankings are as follows:
1. Pakistan – 10,000 new participants. Huzoor (aba) said that the majority of Ahmadis in Pakistan are poor, yet their sacrifices are immense. It is mentioned in a Hadith that the reward for giving one dirham has exceeded the reward for giving 100 000 dirhams. An explanation of this is that a person had two dirhams out of which he gave one dirham in charity. On the other hand, there was another person who had a lot of wealth. From all this wealth, he gave 100 000 dirhams. The difference in reward between these two persons is that despite the first person possessing only two dirhams, he gave half of all his wealth in charity, i.e. one dirham. As for the second person, despite his giving 100 000 dirhams in charity, he received a lesser reward because this 100 000 dirhams which he gave were less than half his entire wealth. Huzoor (aba) expressed his admiration as to how these people, in Pakistan and in African countries, meet their expenses after making such financial sacrifices. May Allah reward them with the choicest of His blessings, Ameen.
2. USA – 256 new participants, but collection decreased by 80 000 (Huzoor (aba) did not specify unit of currency), making the total number of participants to 8 276. Waqf-e-Jadid collections from wealthy nations are used for publication purposes and other projects in the third world countries, therefore, they should try to increase their pledges along with the number of participants. Huzoor (aba) said that the increase in number of participants in the US this year is due to the efforts of Nasirat and Atfaal.
3. Great Britain – an increase of 86 000 (Huzoor (aba) did not specify unit of currency) as compared to the previous year. 1 382 new participants, making the total number of participants to 14 519. The Jamaat here is making great progress in this financial scheme.
4. Canada – an increase of 180 000 (Huzoor (aba) did not specify unit of currency) as compared to the previous year. 378 new participants, making the total number of participants 13 325.
5. Germany – an increase of 25 000 Euros, and the number of participants decreased by 1 387, due to emigration.
6. India – an increase of 170 000 (Huzoor (aba) did not specify unit of currency) as compared to the previous year. Huzoor (aba) drew the attention of India Jamaat and other Jamaats from African countries to try to become financially independent, in view of the global economic situation, where it might not be possible for other countries to support them in the future.
7. Indonesia – increase of 25 000 (Huzoor (aba) did not specify unit of currency) as compared to the previous year. 829 new participants.
8. Belgium
9. France
10. Switzerland
The top-ranking countries in terms of financial contributions per capita are as follows:
2. France
3. Switzerland
4. Great Britain
5. Belgium
The top-ranking African nations in terms of financial contributions are as follows:
1. Nigeria
2. Ghana
3. Burkina Faso
4. Benin
5. Sierra Leone
Total number of participants worldwide are 537 000. Since reports have not been received from all countries, this number does not reflect an accurate figure. Huzoor (aba) said that efforts should be increased in encouraging children (by Jamaat and parents) and new converts to participate in these blessed financial schemes, even if they contribute a small amount. Huzoor (aba)mentioned that countries in the Middle East are also make progress in financial schemes and then listed the top-ranking local jamaats in Great Britain, USA, Pakistan, Germany and Canada.
In the end, Huzoor (aba) prayed that may Allah cause the wealth of all those who made these financial sacrifices to increase. May Allah enable Jamaat to progress and may the efforts of Jamaat be fruitful. May Allah enable every Ahmadi to gain in His nearness. May Allah enable us to supplicate and accept our humble prayers. Ameen.
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March 19th, 2012
5@5 is a daily, food-related list from chefs, writers, political pundits, musicians, actors, and all manner of opinionated people from around the globe.
When Andrew Zimmern tells us we ought to try a particular food, we screw up our courage and do it. His travels as host of "Bizarre Foods" take him to some far-out places and sometimes challenging cuisine, which he always tackles with an open mind, and a wide-open mouth.
Zimmern has seen it all, eaten most of it, and believes that with slight adaptation of the American palate, we can change the world. As he says, "You can change the world one plate at a time. If we can take better advantage of the global pantry and eat from a wider variety of choices we would do more to combat food poverty, our damaged food production system, obesity and other systemic health and wellness issues than any one single act I can imagine. Here are some suggestions, but be creative. It works."
Five Foods That Can Change the World: Andrew Zimmern
Really, any alternative hoofed protein source would be beneficial for the economy and our physical health. Venison, kudu, elk, buffalo - it's all out there waiting to get us off our addiction to feedlot beef and commodity-raised pig. Heck, I will throw rabbit in there as well, even though they have paws and not hooves."
2. Little fish
Little fish with heads on are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids. Sardines and mackerel are some of the healthiest foods we can eat and contain almost 2000 milligrams of omega-3 per three-ounce portion. They don't have lots of toxins like bigger fish. They are sustainable and quick to reproduce. This is one single act that anyone on a coast, lake, river system or pond can put into play today."
3. Your own vegetables
If everyone grew what they could, supported urban farms and community gardens in cities and local CSAs, the pressure relief on our overtaxed system would be immense. The resulting dollar shift would be staggering and deliver a positive shot in the arm to local economies. Our food would also be safer. Small action here can yield tremendous impact, immediately."
4. Game birds
The best way to fight flavor fatigue in your home and spread out our dining dollars is also the best way to force a return to a more healthy manner of poultry raising: just eat less of it. Adding a few meals a month from well-sourced poultry protein like duck, squab, goose, turkey, pheasant or guinea hen will not only thrill your taste buds, but ultimately create a more wallet-friendly food world as well. More sources equals more competition and supporting local poultry farms that do it the right way is better for our national system as well."
5. Offal
Look, I don't expect everyone to go crazy for pig ears, but with all the news that the processed foods that contain all the ignored parts (commercial bologna, hot dogs, sausage) limit our life expectancy and cause increases in cancer and heart disease in direct proportion to consumption, I think it's time for us to wake up and smell the coffee.
The hearts of lambs and cows cook up better than commercial choice grade sirloin, and I challenge anyone to tell me differently. Tongue tastes better and has better mouth feel and cooks more consistently than any other muscle in the 'pot roast' comfort food category. Offal seems to be the sole province of ethnic eateries and swank gastropubs and I think it's high time we returned those ingredients to the dinner table of the American family."
Is there someone you'd like to see in the hot seat? Let us know in the comments below and if we agree, we'll do our best to chase 'em down.
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Hurricanes D Justin Faulk to miss 2-4 weeks with sprained right knee ligament
RALEIGH, N.C. – The Carolina Hurricanes say defenseman Justin Faulk will miss 2-4 weeks with a sprained knee ligament.
The team disclosed Faulk's diagnosis Wednesday and said the second-year defenseman will not need surgery.
He was hurt midway through the second period of Tuesday night's 4-1 loss to the Florida Panthers. He suffered a second-degree sprain of the medial collateral ligament in his right knee when he collided with Jack Skille behind the net.
Faulk has three goals, seven assists and 11 penalty minutes for the Hurricanes.
Three Carolina defensemen were injured during the first two periods of the loss to Florida, but Faulk was the only one who didn't return.


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What else is a proud mama to do? Our oldest son, Jordan, is now a month into his southern Africa summer adventure. He finished his freshman year at the University of California at Berkeley in mid-May and a few days later, departed LAX for Johannesburg, SA. Jordan has spent the past four weeks traveling in Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, and Swaziland. Now, he is probably on a bus heading back to Jo'burg. We'll meet him there next Tuesday, for a family vacation and plenty of World Cup action. For the past few months, Jordan has worked as a reporter for the Daily Californian, Berkeley's newspaper. Here you'll find a list of his articles. While on the road this summer, he's posting to the newspaper's travel blog. Here's his first installment.
Trials of Travel
By Jordan Bach-Lombardo June 16, 2010 | 9:29 pm
Posted in: Africa
When I return in the fall, people will want to hear about the awe-inducing power of Victoria Falls and see pictures of the crags and plains of Mount Mulanje and of elephants crossing the Zambezi River. But what probably won't be related is the work it took to reach these amazing and often remote locations. Such stories tend to describe discomfort and decaying patience and are usually only brought up as horror stories. But to write a true travel blog, and not just one for destinations, the ardor of travel must be acknowledged side-by-side with its joy, for without one there is not the sense of accomplishment that accompanies the other.
Almost four full weeks of my trip around southern Africa have elapsed (So far I have gone through Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique and am heading towards Swaziland and South Africa in the next few days.), and the ultimate combination of toil and triumph to this point has undeniably been the excursion to South Luangwe National Park. The park's situation between the Muchinga Escarpment and Luangwe River in Eastern Zambia places it 715km from Lusaka by road (A "torturous" trip, as our indispensable friends at Lonely Planet say) and $220 away by plane, a price which even for the shoestring college student dangled sorely tempting in front of my as my patience and backside still hadn't entirely recuperated by the beginning of the return leg.
The trek began early on a Thursday morning when we broke down the tent before dawn to arrive at the bus depot by six for our seven o'clock departure (this per the advice of the bus company employee from whom we bought the tickets the night before). When we arrive at the station, we found the bus already idling and the seats a third full, an excellent omen which portended a possible timely departure. What was left of these hopes completely sublimated around 9:30 when most of the "passangers" got up and left. (They had been paid to fill the seats and make the coach appear more full to attract passengers.) At 10:15, as the third bus to Chipata left since we had been sitting on the stationary coach, any hope of reaching the park disappeared and we resigned ourselves to losing a day. Several games of chess and a few arguments with the bus owner later, we finally pulled out of the bus station, six and a half hours after what we thought was the departure time.
To be continued… Click here.


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CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (AP) _ While the military policy of ``don't ask, don't tell'' and the overturning of part of the federal Defense of Marriage Act opened doors more widely to gay people serving openly in the military, it didn't mark radical changes to the way the fighting force looked or behaved.
Instead, it brought the possibility of marriage and spousal benefits to soldiers that were previously denied. And, an opportunity to live more freely.
``When you come out and you've been out so long, it's hard to just go back in,'' said Spc. Corderra Dews, 24, who was living in Austin, Texas, and openly gay before he joined the Army in 2011.
While there are no solid statistics on the number of gay and lesbian soldiers currently in the military, a group of soldiers at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, spoke with The Leaf-Chronicle (http://leafne.ws/1llnGqP) about life in the military before and after the repeal of ``don't ask, don't tell' and the Army's decision to extend benefits to same-sex spouses, furthering the full inclusion of gay and lesbian soldiers in the military.
Each soldier spoke about being concerned about their sexuality surfacing while the policy was in place, in some cases walking away from conversations that turned uncomfortable and, in the case of Spc. Brian Scott, being married to a woman as cover.
Scott, 28, is in the Army Reserve, but he was active-duty at Fort Campbell from 2009 to early 2011 in the 187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne as a fire support specialist. He is also the chapter leader for Kentucky's OutServe-SLDN, a national organization dedicated to LGBT equality and ending harassment and discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity in the military.
``I definitely had that fear of not being complete and still having to hide that part of me,'' Scott said. ``You've got to lie to yourself and lie to the person you're with.''
Stereotypes of gay people remain prevalent and deep-rooted, particularly about gay men.
``Everyone expects them to be very, very flamboyant,'' Scott said.
Sgt. Cristian Saldana, 23, gets similar reactions. Saldana is in communications with 326th Engineer Battalion, 101st Sustainment Brigade, and he is married to Spc. Nicholas Harriel.
``I always get the comment `You're not the stereotypical flamboyant gay guy _ you're not flaming,''' Saldana said.
With the repeal of DADT, however, gay soldiers are openly challenging those stereotypes.
``We weren't that new species anymore,'' said Harriel, 23, a medic with 86th Combat Support Hospital. ``It allowed us to come out because we don't have purple dots on us. It's not obvious. So whenever you don't see something, it's easy to fear something you haven't seen.''
Lt. Col. Brian DeSantis, a spokesman for the 101st Airborne spokesman and Fort Campbell, said harassment of gay soldiers is not taken lightly.
``Fort Campbell and the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) are dedicated to ensuring that everyone in our community is treated with dignity and respect, to include our gay and lesbian service and family members,'' said DeSantis said.
For Dews, that helps as the Army adjusts to the new reality of openly-gay soldiers.
``My hope as a gay soldier,'' Dews said, ``is I really hope to get stationed somewhere nice, meet somebody, be able to bring them around, take them to balls, to be like any other spouse in the military.''


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George Mutinda's songwriting skills have won him a global award. That however doesn't change much of the humble man– who will talk about such big things only if you ask him. It's late afternoon on a hot Saturday. I am meeting Mutinda at the French cultural center's splendid jardin where I am interviewing him for one of my TV shows. Before the start he kindly asks to sing for me. Who can say no to that?
Equipped with only his guitar and voice, he's got a super power to make a 3-min song sound like it lasted a mere 30 seconds. "Is it over?", I ask. He laughs and starts to play another one. I can't really comprehend how he is not mad at me for keeping him waiting for an hour. I also can't comprehend how I can feel this song's reminiscent echo despite the fact that I cant understand it's words sang in Kamba, Mutinda's native language.
He is singing a song titled 'Vala vandu'. It means, that place. "It's about familiar strangers. It could be a person in your country or from any other place in the world. Sometimes you have just an instance with someone and the effect they leave on you usually lasts forever. That's it. Most times when you look back you realize that you never got the chance to thank them for the inspiration they left you. That's what this song is about," he explains and I conclude that this guy is some-kind-of-deep.
He is soft-spoken. When he sings though, there is a certain strength and passion to it. "In Kenya my songs are termed as afro-acoustic. Beyond borders it's called world music. I like that a lot because world music are songs inspired by African traditional folk. It's basically music for the ears of a global audience. Most times you can tell of a song's roots, be it from west or South Africa," says Mutinda.
The singer/guitarist has toured among other places the Schengen countries and USA, all in pursuit of exporting his African sound. "All my concerts were sold out but I was shocked to make a revelation that people out there don't know much about the East Africa sound. We need to spread it out more," he asserts. Is there a unified East African sound? Mutinda says, "The East African sound is diverse, we have many colours that should be spread across the world. Striving to have one sound is like a horse without a tail." Oh this is a wise guy. Among his local musical influences are KK Kilonzo, Eric Wainaina, Suzzana Owiyo, Abbi and Winyo though his overall inspiration comes from every single one of his daily life's encounters, he tells me.
In 2005 Mutinda emerged as the top male artist in the inaugural Spotlight on Kenyan Music Competition. In 2009 he performed at the Sauti Za Busara festival in Zanzibar. The same year 'Matopeni', his debut album was released. The album is very cool, definitely not for the hot heads. The ten tracks are a mix of jazzy rhythms, afro- acoustic sounds with some contemporary vibes, all sang in Kiswahili and Kamba. In 2011 his song 'Simama' won in the world music category for best song in the prestigious International Songwriting Competition (ISC) held in USA.
"There was a call for entries and i applied just for the kicks. There were over 15,000 entries from all over Africa so it's unbelievable that my song made it through into the final sixteen and eventually to the top!", he exclaims with a satisfactory shine. "That's huge! Was there a prize?" I excitedly ask him. "There is always a prize," he calmly informs me. I am happy for Mutinda though when it comes to hoisting our Kenyan flag on the world map I am ashamed that not as many Kenyans know much on people of such caliber. "The world appreciates art more than Kenya does. Maybe my style appealing more to the world than in Kenya has made me the prophet who is not recognized in his home. Artists also need credibility at home. Athletes run for Kenya and so do we but through music," he says. Je suis d'accord.
Mutinda also co-founded acoustic nights, a bi-monthly event that gives a live music platform to Kenyan musicians. The event is held at Sippers restaurant. He also performs at Tapas in Village market on a bi-monthly basis. His plans for 2012 is to have more of his live music performances recorded citing a need to maintain the freshness.
I am a big bathroom singing star. And lately i have been considering taking my career to the next level — songwriting! So i want in on Mutinda's secret even though he knows not of my secret dreams 🙂 He actually thinks about it to an extent of pulling a few strands of his dreads. "The secret to songwriting is patience and a captivation to thyself. If your song doesn't resonate with you then it's not worth any audience," his advice to all the bathroom and outside-the-bathroom dreamers.
Mutinda is a self-taught musician. He started singing and playing traditional stringed instruments way before his teens. With his first salary he bought himself his first guitar. The rest is history.
BONUS: In the video of 'Simama', Mutinda featured the Pamoja Dance Group, an integrated mix of dancers with and without physical disabilities. If that wasn't beautiful, then i don't know jack about beauty. For more info check Mutinda's website


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The 2018 Yading Skyrunning Festival concluded today with two incredible races, the 29km Sky Race and the 46km Kora Ultra. Both races started in Shangri La at the same time and both concluded at the Monastery in the Yading National Park.
It turned out to be quite a day for both races!
The predicted snow came and with it wind, cold temperatures and snow flurries; the landscape turned into a winter wonderland. It made the conditions very difficult for the runners. Fighting the challenging terrain and at times bitter cold, the 2018 Ultra and Sky race will be remembered for many years to come.
It was a day when finally the ever-present Skyrunner, Oscar Casal Mir topped the podium after many years of commitment to the Skyrunner World Series. He was just behind Andy Wacker at the iconic prayer flag turn and then used his descending skills to clinch victory. Andy finished just over a minute later and rising Nepali star, Bed Sunuwar placed 3rd, particularly notable after placing 2nd in the previous day's VK.
The ladies' race turned out to be an epic battle between Holly Page and Ruth Croft. The duo were pretty much together throughout the race with Holly having the edge.
Ruth used her road skills on some of the earlier section but it was Holly who triumphed clinching victory. Sheila Aviles clinched the final podium spot in a very competitive race.
- Oscar Casal Mir 3:06:26
- Andy Wacker 3:07:30
- Bed Sunuwar 3:07:57
- Yongning Gao 3:11:27
- Finlay Wild 3:13:14
- Holly Page 3:32:04
- Ruth Croft 3:33:38
- Sheila Aviles 3:37:20
- Hillary Gerardi 3:42:36
- Lina El Kott Helander 3:45:57
In the Kora Ultra it was a record breaking day with both the male winner and female winner beating the 2017 times; truly remarkable when one considers the conditions. This was reflected in the words of Francois D'Haene, 'I went 10-minutes quicker than last year and still came 4th!'
The talk though was all about the ladies' winner, Miao Yao who obliterated the field and smashed the course record setting the new level at 5:50:28. For perspective, Mira Rai was a distant second in 6:32:40. Many of the elite men could feel the pressure, the speed and skill of this lady who placed 7th overall.
The men's race was equally impressive, let's face it, anyone who betters Francois D'Haene deserves respect, especially when setting a CR 4:49:02, that credit goes to Dongrenjia Jia. But also a great nod to 2nd and 3rd, Yousheng Guan and Ji Dong.
- Dongranjia Jia 4:49:02
- Yousheng Guan 5:04:10
- Ji Dong 5:13:54
- Miao Yao 5:50:28
- Mira Rai 6:32:40
- Qiao Wen 8:17:44
Yading, the impressive landscape and the mountains were the true stars of the festival though. It's an incredible place to race, run or hike and will doubt make it to many a bucket list.
IMAGES available HERE


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Light Wonder Youth-Boosting Foundation SPF15 - 3 Fair, 40ml
Makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury never discovered a foundation she could believe in, so she created her own. Her TT 'Treat and Transform' formula hydrates for up to 18 hours and blends effortlessly for an imperceptible finish - fine lines and wrinkles will instantly appear diminished.
- '3 Fair' is suitable for fair skin tones
- Botanical alternative to Retinol stimulates collagen production
- SPF15 with UVA protection
This item's measurements are:
- Length: 4cm / 1.6in
- Height: 2.1cm / 0.8in
- Width: 11cm / 4.3in
Instructions for use:
- Blend a small amount onto your skin from the nose outwards
- For a more flawless finish, pat on top of areas where extra coverage is needed using a brush
- 40ml/ 1.4 fl.oz.
Ingredients: Cyclopentasiloxane, Water (Aqua), Hydrogenated Didodecene, Titanium Dioxide (Nano), Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Mica, Glycerin, Sorbitan Isostearate, Peg/Ppg
- 18/18 Dimethicone, Sodium Chloride, Cyclohexasiloxane , Aluminum/Magnesium Hydroxide Stearate, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Squalane, Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate, Dimethicone, Bis-C24-28 Hydroxyalkyl Olivoyl Glutamate , Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Methylparaben, Potassium Sorbate, Propylparaben, Isopropyl Titanium Triisostearate, Fragrance (Parfum), Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Laureth-4, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Sodium Citrate, Vigna Aconitifolia Seed Extract, Bht, Chlorphenesin, [May Contain: Titanium Dioxide (CI77891), Mica, Iron Oxides (CI77491 ,CI 77492, CI77499), Ultramarines (CI 77007), Tin Oxide (CI 77861)]
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Try your purchase in the comfort of your own home and, if it's not quite right, let us know and we'll arrange a free collection from your home or office.
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Workplace Design
Engaging key stakeholders is a critical first step in the development of an ergonomics program. It is important to elevate awareness of ergonomic concerns and understand what the common physical problems are that modern computer users face.
DESIGNING HEALTHY WORK ENVIRONMENTSThis seminar offers participants guidance on designing healthy work environments. The course explores current client oriented challenges in proactively addressing ergonomic concerns and seeks to bridge the gap between workplace aesthetics and functionality. An overview of common musculoskeletal problems facing today's intensive computer users is provided and key research developments in the areas of seating, input device design, display technology, lighting and employee level training are discussed. Participants will learn how ergonomic principles are being applied to the design of computer workstations to reduce employee discomfort and risk of injury while lowering employer costs.
- Discussion of workplace trends and design challenges
- Introduction to ergonomics: Ergonomics defined, Common misconceptions
- Discussion of awkward postures and associated musculoskeletal risk factors:
Wrist extension, Ulnar/Radial deviation, Contact Stress, Neck/Trunk rotation, Elbow abduction/adduction, Reach distances, Static postures
- Minimizing extreme postures and injury through design and training
- Four key elements of an ergonomic workstation: The chair, The work surface, including height adjustable workstations, Monitor and document placement, Lighting and glare issues
Today's modern workplace is dominated by an increasing presence of technology. Employees spend much of their time answering emails, writing reports, and participating in web conferences—all of which require prolonged periods of computer use. For the average worker , this has led to an increase in musculoskeletal complaints such as eyestrain, lower back pain and wrist discomfort. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association surveyed roughly 29,000 computer users and found that 52.7% were working with at last one form of daily musculoskeletal discomfort. The average lost productive times of those experiencing discomfort was more than 5.2 hours per week.
These eye-opening statistics shed light on the growing number of work-related issues stemming from prolonged computer use. More and more organizations are beginning to see the link between worker discomfort, lost productive time and cost. Proactively addressing discomfort levels therefore becomes an important business strategy.


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Ajay's Montana Bananas is the name of a beef jerky brand based out of Alta Sierra, CA. It's been around since 1979. It was started by Ajay Avery, a singer in a country-rock band that toured the western states between 1973 and 1978. Ajay was also big jerky lover.
He was in Missoula, MT, getting some gasoline, when he walked into a nearby butcher shop owned by Henry Wilkinson. He saw some beef jerky that Wilkinson had made, and bought some, and discovered what he felt was the best beef jerky there had ever been. Ajay would return to Wilkinson's butcher shop, and buy up several bags of this stuff, and sell them at concert venues where his band played. Eventually, he earned more money selling the jerky than he did from the band.
That lead him to buying the recipe from Wilkinson, and launching the "Montana Bananas" brand name. Today, Ajay's jerky is distributed through BevMo! a chain of liquor stores throughout California, as well as tool trucks like Snap-on and Matco, and through his website.
This particular "Original Peppered" is also known as "Cowboy Dry", and is the same recipe that Ajay bought from Wilkinson. In addition to this, Ajay offers five other varieties, which I'll be reviewing separately over the next several weeks.
Beef, salt, spices, sugar, monosodium glutamate, garlic powder, dextrose, sodium nitrite.
The flavors I pick up from the surface of these pieces starts with a slight smoky, meaty aroma, followed by a slight salty flavor, and after several seconds, a black pepper taste starts coming on. In the chewing, the flavors I get starts with a stronger black pepper taste, a stronger saltiness, and some natural meat flavors. I can also pick up a weak garlic taste in the background.
I'd say the flavor that comes out the strongest in this jerky is the saltiness. It starts from the surface of these pieces as a weak flavor, but as soon as you chew it gets strong and stays strong all the way until you swallow. In terms of salt intensity this stuff is just above my personal tolerance level. The nutrition facts label actually shows 380mg of sodium per 1 ounce serving, which is low compared to most other brands, but nonetheless the salt flavor is quite strong. I can enjoy this within the first few pieces, but after that it starts to wear down on me, and my mouth yearns for a drink.
The black pepper in this quite noticeable, but for the most part, plays second-fiddle to the salt. In some pieces where there's a more dense sprinkling of pepper, it almost overtakes the saltiness. Throughout several pieces, there's a slight peppery burn building up, which I'd rate as mild-medium on my hot scale.
The natural meat flavors perhaps makes up the third-strongest flavor. It probably takes about 5 seconds into the chewing to notice the meat flavors, perhaps because the saltiness is quite strong. There's a slight smoky color to this flavor that's noticeable on the surface of these pieces.
So if you can imagine a strong salty flavor, colored with some black pepper and garlic, that's largely the flavor I get from this, with the smoky natural meat flavors sitting behind that.
Meat Consistency
These appear to be slices of whole meat, sliced to a medium thickness, and in small to medium sized pieces. There's probably a full ounce of crumbled bits in the bottom of the bag.
This is a dry jerky, with most pieces having some flexibility before they crack open and show their cottony white meat fibers. Tearing a piece apart with my hands is somewhat easy with the grain. Biting a piece off against the grain requires a good deal of effort. The chewing varies from moderate to tough.
The chewing texture starts out hard and chewy, but after 5-10 seconds of chewing it seems to break down into something much like a steak, cooked well-done. I'm not getting anything mushy, gummy, or crumbly. It's very meaty and fibrous.
As far as that tough chewing is concerned, it's not quite tough enough that it makes my jaws tired. I think for one, it seems to break down easily enough, and two this jerky has enough flavor intensity that I pause to suck out the juices in between a few chews, as opposed to chewing all the way through.
For the most part, it's pretty clean eating. I found only a few meat fragments falling on to my lap and desk, and no residue sticking to my fingers.
I found just a few visible pieces of fat on this jerky, but nothing that gave it a rancid flavor. I didn't find any pieces of tendon or gristle. I did find a couple pieces that left behind a small unchewable wad of connective tissue in my mouth.
Snack Value
Ajay's Montana Bananas has a suggested retail price of $7.00 per four ounce package for each of their jerky varieties. That works out to a price of $1.75 per ounce, putting this into the average price range.
For general jerky snacking purposes, at the $1.75 per ounce price, it presents a good value. I'm getting a good deal of snackability from its strong flavor intensity, and its good chewing texture. I like the overall flavor enough to keep reaching for more, but after a few pieces, the high salt intensity eventually wears me out, and makes me pause for about 15 minutes.
As a peppered beef jerky, also at the $1.75 per ounce price, it's again a good value. I do get a good taste of black pepper in this, and in some pieces a strong black pepper taste. Even though the saltiness is still stronger overall, I think this jerky stands up to its billing as a peppered variety.
I'm giving this a good rating.
This "Original Peppered" variety from Ajay's Montana Bananas packs in a lot of flavor intensity, mostly as a salty flavor, but further enhanced with black pepper and garlic, and is able to retain some natural meat flavors with a smoky touch.
The flavor is definitely well above the mass-market jerky that we come to know so well. I want to even say that there's an "old fashioned" quality to it, except I don't know how to qualify that statement. Perhaps Ajay's story of discovering this jerky recipe in the 1970s in a small Montana town creates the old fashioned charm.
What keeps me from giving this a "best" rating is that for one, it's too salty for my personal liking, and two it's just a tad too tough. I will point out however, the nutrition facts label actually shows that this jerky is in fact lightly salted when compared to other brands. For whatever reason, the saltiness comes out strong in this, and seems to overshadow the natural meat flavors.
As for being tough to chew, it's tough enough that it presents some work in chewing, but still not quite so tough wear out my jaw muscles. The good news is that this jerky is packed so full of salty flavor, that it encourages you to chew it lightly a few times, then suck out some flavor, chew a little bit more, suck out more flavor, etc., etc. Kinda like chewing tobacco, except a lot healthier.
It's a great jerky to eat while you're working on something else. Maybe that's why Ajay distributes this stuff through tool trucks. You can take a bite of this jerky, then work on something, and grab another bite whenever you get a chance. That way the high saltiness and tough chewing won't wear you out over time.
Note that the Montana Bananas website requires you to purchase a minimum of 13 packages. So find yourself a BevMo! Store or a tool truck to buy just one.
And if you'd prefer a beer with this, I'd recommend a smooth creamy stout.
Rating: Good (4/5)
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Ajay's Montana Bananas - Original Peppered
Ajay's Montana Bananas is the name of a beef jerky brand based out of Alta Sierra, CA. It's been around since 1979. It was started by Ajay Avery, a singer in a country-rock band that toured the western states between 1973 and 1978. Ajay was also big jerky lover.
3 comments:
Cool site and while I generally agree with this review, I have to disagree with the salt comments. I suppose we all have different tolerances, but the salt is not nearly as noticeable to be as the pepper, which is a good thing.ReplyDelete
In my opinion, this is the best jerky I've ever had. You can actually taste the real beef flavor unlike those popular brands like Jacks Links and Pemmican that have a strange glaze to them.
Too bad I can only get it at BevMo. Almost every time I go there, they are out of this style, but the other Ajays styles are still on the shelf. I guess a lot of other people like this as much as me. Looks like I'll have to pop for the $84.00 for 13 bags.
Great review. Not too salty for me. Perfect flavor. I have never loved another jerky, except for a rare homemade at times, and I have loved Montana Banana jerky since I was a kid. There are two places here in the Sacramento county that carry it: Folsom Lake Liquors in Folsom, Ca., and L&M Liquor and Deli in Citrus Heights? Possibly Fair Oaks or Orangevale. Everyone I give some jerky to, wants more! It's popularity is underrated.ReplyDelete
Yes, great review. However, you miss the point. The reason "Cowboy Dry" or Original Pepper is so different and good, is that it is made with WATER only--no oil. Even Ajay's other brands are made with oil, but this "flavor" is not. It is harder to make and process, but I can find not other maker "worth his salt" that does this without oil. Now, no other jerky will do it for me.ReplyDelete


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FRANCE – Carla Bruni is back in the news. WWN first revealed that Bruni was immortal and was far beyond your mere first lady. Stay-tuned as more will follow tomorrow!
Recent findings reveal that French First Lady Carla Bruni has been alive since at least the early Hellenic Period. Dr. Andrei Cyriakis has uncovered artifacts off the coast of Sicily dating back to 300 BC which bear an unmistakable resemblance to the model/singer.
Dr. Cyriakis' find would help explain several events since Bruni began her courtship with French Prime Minister Nicolas Sarkozy.
Last February a bus full of schoolchildren were saved from an avalanche near Lyon by what witnesses described as "a beautiful angel" wearing a designer Christian Dior dress similar to the one Bruni wore that evening to dinner with the Queen of Jordan.
Since her arrival in New York for the UN General Assembly, reports of street crime have dropped 83%. A woman matching Bruni's description was seen flying away from an explosion at an abandoned warehouse in Queens shortly before her husband's reception with the Eli Wiesel Humanitarian Foundation.
For reasons yet unknown Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was seen staring at Mrs. Bruni this morning at the United Nations building with clenched fists saying "Next time. Next time…"
Exactly how old she is or where she came from remain a mystery, but the scientific community and Weekly World News will keep searching for the truth.


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For all the endangered species near the state's waterways, the ferries are among them. There are only eight ferry services left in a state that was once filled with the boats chugging across the labyrinth of canals, rivers and bayous.
Of the eight, the Cameron Ferry, which we were about to drive onto, is the only one that operates 24 hours every day, crossing the deepwater Calcasieu River/ Ship Channel. On board were industrial workers or tourists such as myself who were driving along the gulf-side Creole Nature Trail past the towns of Creole and Cameron.
In a state in which just about everything that can be cut back has been, the eight surviving lines have been as durable as alligator hide. The most visible of the ferries is the Algiers/Canal boat which makes a sideways S-pattern as it glides across the Mississippi river connecting New Orleans' French Quarter with the city's west bank. That ferry service has been on life-support since the toll on the nearby bridge that helped fund it was eliminated. Now it is under the management of the area Regional Transit Authority which we hope will provide long-term security.
While most of the ferries are in the southern part of the state, the northernmost survivor is the Catahoula Parish-based Duty/Enterprise boat that crosses the Ouachita river. The Cameron ferry can haul 50 cars, the little Duty/Enterprise boat can carry six cars or one 18-wheeler.
There was barely time to stand on the deck as the Cameron ferry made its crossing, but I did anyway. Because the canal connects to the gulf there are occasional spottings of dolphins and pelicans splashing along the way. Gulls circle above. Oil is produced along the shore, but not the kind that you think. Piles of menhaden, a nonedible fish prized for its oil used to make pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, dot the beach. At nearby plants the processed essence of menhaden is loaded into trucks many of which take the ferry in route to providing for healthier faces and lifestyles. Left behind is the smell of fish piles overpowering in spots even the fragrance of salt air.
We were back in the car waiting our turn to leave the ferry. The whole trip took about as long as the time lapsed to read this blog, assuming you did not pause along the way. Now you can click or respond. Meanwhile the Cameron Ferry is heading back for another trip.
BOOK ANNOUNCEMENT: Errol's Laborde's new book, Mardi Gras: Chronicles of the New Orleans Carnival (Pelican Publishing Company, 2013), has been released. It is now available at local bookstores and online.
(The above blog was based on an Errol Laborde column that appeared in Louisiana Life magazine. It has been updated for timeliness.)


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It's been quite sometime since I've spent any appreciable time in LotRO for any number of reasons. I tend to keep it patched so I can hop in whenever the spirit moves me, but the last few times I've logged in I've sat paralyzed and logged out five minutes later. Re-immersing oneself into a game can sometimes be a bit overwhelming, especially if you don't feel like you're likely to stay a while.
I haven't really be a regular festival goer in LotRO's past events and really hadn't planned on taking part in this year's 5th Anniversary Event. It had all but passed me by when I saw that it had been extended, so for no particular reason, I decided to drop on in, so drop in I did.
The festival was in full swing this weekend with lots of player activity in the main hubs. This time, however, rather than attempting to pick up where I'd last left off, I ventured into Bree to see what all fun was to be had with the festival. Thanks to Casual Stroll to Mordor's festival guide, I quickly had things sussed out and to my surprise, it appeared that both festival mounts could be earned in relatively short order with little grind.
Quite cleverly, several of the quests send you hither and yon across Eriador conveying gifts to NPCs, retrieving lost invitations, setting off fireworks and talking with our old friend Gandalf, participating in horse races in Bree and the Shire and getting into the odd drunken beer brawl at Thorin's halls. With just a little forethought, several nice loops can be done taking you to many familiar and iconic landmarks. Deliciously insidious.
For those of us prone to nostalgia (and LotRO is in many ways nostalgia squared– reminiscences of the game reminiscent of the experience of the books), this is almost dirty pool. In many ways, LotRO to me has been more of a world in search of a game, but a wonderful and beautiful world and always a visual feast to visit.
So after a few of the quests and traipsing over familiar territory, the nostalgia gene kicked in. So much so, that at least for this weekend, I managed to earn enough anniversary tokens to obtain the Fireworks Laden Steed on my Captain and nearly so on my Runekeeper. An altogether silly mount that, as the name suggests, is laden with fireworks (which feature prominently in the festival and are quite nicely done), and from time to time lets one loose while riding along.
Two race tokens, 1 mount ownership document (purchasable from an NPC) and 40 Anniversary Tokens later, goal attained.
For me LotRO is one of those games where its just satisfying to be in the world. Toggling off floating names and just running around enjoying the world isn't such a bad way to spend a few hours of the weekend. Yes, I think I'll be back sooner than later next time.