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2001 Detroit Auto Show
The 2001 auto show season is officially underway! The North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit kicked off the year with more than 40 automakers exhibiting over 700 cars and trucks. In fact, more than two dozen new production vehicles were introduced and nearly three dozen concept cars were presented.
Our Motor Trend editors were there to provide an insider's view of these exciting vehicles, with the text and photos on the folowing pages. Enjoy.
Videography and video production by Jay McCarthy
Meet the next-generation Integra. Sure, Acura presented the RS-X as a "clear indication of the direction we are headed." But the blue coupe was a very finished piece. Beyond advancement in refinement and torsional rigidity, the real excitement with the RS-X is the 2.0-liter i-VTEC DOHC engine touting approximately 200 horsepower matched with a six-speed transmission. Other features on the show car include cross-drilled disc brakes, 18-inch wheels, Recaro sport seats, and audio system with six-disc in-dash CD changer backed by a trunk-mounted subwoofer.
As snow fell gently outside Cobo Hall, the Audi Steppenwolf concept seemed to have even greater appeal than when the muscular, all-terrain vehicle was first shown in Paris. Applying the Allroad principles to an A3-like-package yielded a cool three-door, four seater that doesn't take no for an answer. Inside, the all-wheel-drive Steppenwolf is trimmed with a generous application of aluminum and leather. Outside, big, gnarly tires, 3.2-liter/225-horsepower V-6, and 8.7-inches conspire for good times in remote places.
Hot on the heels of the M3 coupe is a sun-chasing M3 convertible debuting spring 2001, just in time for adrenaline-surging summer driving. The four-place drop-top packs the same 333-horsepower inline-six engine as the coupe, along with sport-tuned suspension and prerequisite M styling cues. The lined convertible top ensures a quiet ride, and an aluminum hardtop is available for winter driving. Model-specific standards such as power sport seats make the M3 convertible a premium sport/lux car even by BMW standards.
Making its world premier in Detroit, the BMW X Coupe redefines sport, borrowing from both enthusiast cars and utility vehicles. The all-wheel-drive two-door surprised the crowd with its unique asymmetric rear hatch that opens nearly half the car, leaving three pillars total securing the roof. Inside, the car is very driver-centric, with controls and displays oriented toward the left side. An edgy contrast to the Z9, the X Coupe portends of future styling direction for BMW sports cars.
More is better, especially when it comes to horsepower. BMW presents a new performance edition of the X5, pushing power up from 282 horsepower to a serious 347 horsepower. To achieve these gains, an exclusive 4.6-liter version of the V-8 has been prepared. With a five-speed Steptronic transmission, the 354 lb-ft of torque can be harnessed in automatic mode or shifted manually. The exterior sports distinct, body-color trim and the barrel-sized wheels wear 20-inch tires. The X5 HP goes on sale fall 2001.
The shape of things to come, the Z9 Cabriolet hints at the future of luxury sedan design, specifically the next 7 Series. Much more than a styling exercise, the open-cockpit 2+2 also demonstrates an innovative approach to control with myriad systems, including audio, navigation, climate, and communication. Termed iDrive, the ergonomic approach allows the driver to command such functions using a color monitor and rotary-push knob.
General Motors is targeting Gen-Y with its youthful 2001 concepts, pulling even conservative Buick in a sporty direction with the front-drive Bengal convertible. A retractable tonneau cover hides the swoopy six-cylinder's 2+2 seating ability. Rear access is eased with a third door. The hands-free Visteon Voice system enables a clean dash design while providing controls for 118 functions, recognized in six languages. Information is relayed to driver in a male or female voice and a heads-up display.
Cadillac has unveiled its latest crossover concept to wear the "art and science" styling. Blurring the lines between sport sedan, SUV, and wagon, the Vizon features an electronically operated liftgate that exposes a flexible interior. Outside, an integrated roof rack accommodates sports gear while a large two-way moonroof lets fresh air pour through. Power comes from a 4.2-liter V-8 Northstar engine commanded with a five-speed automatic transmission. The Vizon shows off GM's latest safety technology with the first all-wheel-drive StabiliTrak application, adaptive cruise control, and OnStar Virtual Advisor
Chevy revived the K5 moniker for a special show truck that offers a sneak peek at future opportunities for a "two-door" Chevy Tahoe. With its fresh look, open-air rear cargo bed with removable top, and 180-degree rearward opening rear doors, the K5 offers much of the versatility of a production four-door Tahoe with the sporty appearance of a two-door. Underneath the hood of the all-wheel-drive K5 is a modified version of the Vortec 6000 V-8 truck engine, making 440 horsepower at 5700 rpm and 450 lb-ft of torque at 4700 rpm and mated to a four-speed automatic transmission.
Chevrolet is touring its claim to Motor Trend's 2001 Truck of the Year award -winning Silverado Heavy-Duty pickup with the larger-than-life golden caliper trophy in the bed. But it can hold way more than that! Up to 6089 pounds when powered by the standard 6.0-liter OHV Vortec 6000 V-8 and five-speed automatic. As we wrote in the February 2001 issue, "the Chevrolet Silverado HD won us over with its do-it-all portfolio of power, passenger room, cargo capacity, feature levels, and towing prowess."
Drawing its inspiration from the 1950s sports cars produced by Briggs Cunningham II, the Cunningham Motor Company (CMC) will produce a V-12-powered, limited-production, grand tourer dubbed C7. The 2+2 coupe is expected to have more than 500 horsepower from an American-sourced engine and carry a price tag exceeding $250,000. Self-described as a "virtual" car company, CMC will outsource the bulk of development and research to minimize cost. Lead by auto legend Bob Lutz, the Cunningham family, and auto exec John McCormack, CMC will be a company to watch.
In another homage to classic cars of the past, DaimlerChrysler designed its Dodge Super 8 Hemi concept with reverse a-pillars, quarter vent windows, brushed aluminum gauges and trim, front and rear bench seats, and a 353-horsepower pushrod Hemi V-8 engine. However, underneath these retro stylings are fully modern independent suspension, AutoStick manumatic transmission, Sirius Satellite Radio, and multi-passenger Infotronic system that features internet-based traffic and weather updates.
Dodge certainly surprised the crowd when it debuted the new {{{2003 Dodge Viper}}}. Its styling takes many cues from the Viper GTS/R concept shown at the 2000 NAIAS, and Dodge claims this Viper will be the only production car in the world with "500/500/500" performance. Translated this means the Viper will have 500 horsepower, 500 lb-ft of torque, and 500 cubic inches of displacement from its 8.3-liter all-aluminum V-10 engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission.
Ferrari credits Sergio Pininfarina's studio for designing the 550 Barchetta Pininfarina's sleek, fluid styling and leather-covered dual roll hoops. The 550 has a traditional barchetta-style cut to the windscreen, about .04-inch lower than the Maranello's. And there is no top; just a tonneau that covers the interior from the base of the windshield to the rear cowl. This helps save weight -- the 485-hp V-12 Barchetta tips the scales at 3718 pounds, same as the Maranello. Very limited production begins next spring, with about 23 percent bound for the United States.
Based on the 2002 Ford Explorer, the new Sportsman concept is designed to take the angler out into the wilderness for a "back to nature" outdoor experience. Features like fold-out fly-tying benches, a 30-gallon live fish tank, and running boards that also store rods and equipment will improve the fisherman's experience. A fully detachable roof rack extends forward and folds down so bulky gear can be easily loaded from the side of the vehicle.
Ford's extreme two-seat EX concept vehicle features removable composite body sections mounted onto an exo-skeleton frame of Chrome-moly steel. The bronze-tinted windshield folds down and clips to the top of the hood for open-air driving, and passengers are secured by four-point safety belts. No doors, no handles, so side frames are padded for greater comfort getting in and out. Stainless-steel side-exiting exhaust, 17-inch cast-aluminum wheels, and durable all-weather textiles add to its Baja-ready appearance.
Ford's new Forty-Nine concept is designed to take Americans on a "sentimental drag race" 50 years back in time and underscores Ford's commitment to designing excitement into new cars. Its super-smooth appearance uses an all-glass upper body structure with concealed pillars, and an exterior wrapped in velvety black paint with modest chrome accents. Underhood, the engine bay houses a Thunder-donated 3.9-liter DOHC 32-valve V-8, tuned to fit the car's appearance and refined muscle.
Face it, America loves the Thunderbird, and Ford wants us to have it. In fact, Ford announced it will in production this summer, powered by a 3.9-liter V-8 engine with a five-speed automatic transmission. Rear-drive, like the original, but with four-wheel independent suspension, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, 17-inch cast-aluminum wheels, head and chest side airbags, and priced between $35,495 and $39,795 fully loaded. Where do we get in line?
Conjuring fond images of the past, Ford has introduced the Thunderbird Sports Roadster concept inspired by its 1962 namesake. The concept features a sloped rear deck with a molded fiberglass tonneau cover and integrated, white leather-covered headrests embossed with the trademark T-Bird logo. Chrome-finished fasteners secure the tonneau to the roadster. Production intent is uncertain, but the tonneau would make an attractive aftermarket component that would build on the model's rich heritage.
Penned at the GM do Brasil Design Center, Sabia is a small-bedded, four-door utility vehicle, sized like a coupe but with four doors and room for four passengers seated in theatre style. Measuring in at 174 inches long and 60 inches tall, the Sabia is front-wheel drive and powered by a 2.0-liter supercharged engine.
Versatility is a common theme among this year's concepts, such as the boundary-pushing Terracross that is a pickup, SUV, and convertible all rolled into one. Successor to last year's Terradyne concept, the Terracross furthers the "industrial precision" design theme. Notable elements include the three electronically controlled glass roof panels, reconfigurable midgate, wheels positioned at corners, and sliding rear doors.
The Model X was developed with young male college students in mind, and has a number of features specifically aimed at people with active lifestyles. The absence of a b-pillar allows the rear-hinged rear doors to open wide for easy access; additionally, the rear roofline slides forward, and, combined with a rear tailgate, gives the versatility of a pickup truck, to hold large items like mountain bikes, surfboards, or snowboards. Rear seatbacks can be flipped forward to create rear-facing seats for more flexibility. Destoned for production, Model X will complement CR-V, not replace it.
Infiniti's crossover sport/utility vehicle concept is a tall-riding, all-wheel-drive four-door sport sedan with the roadgoing agility of an SUV. Using the same 4.5-liter V-8 as the Q45, the FX45 drives on large 20-inch wheels and features an innovative glass roof for an open-air feel and a two-piece rear tailgate for access to its ample cargo room.
Due in showrooms next spring, Infiniti's third-generation Q45 is powered by a 340-horsepower 4.5-liter V-8 matched to a five-speed automatic transmission promising 0-60 mph in less than six seconds. Infiniti's luxo-flagship features high-intensity discharge headlamps and an optional rearview camera system that displays what's behind the car on a monitor on the dash. Safety features include front, side, and curtain airbags, ABS, stability control, and brake assist.
Isuzu's GBX pushes the edge of SUV design and architecture with an unusual "exoskeleton steel frame" that forms the core of the vehicle by enveloping the entire passenger cell. Center-split doors open wide for enhanced access, and freestanding seats increase floor storage. Power will be from a 3.0-liter turbocharged 24-valve diesel V-6 with common-rail direct injection. GBX will also feature Isuzu's Torque-on-Demand four-wheel-drive system, "intelligent" suspension, four-wheel Brembo brakes, and Goodyear run-flat tires.
Known as the KJ, the Liberty is the modern successor to the long-lived Jeep Cherokee. Although that classic box will continue in production for a short while longer, the Liberty makes a radical leap forward in design, engineering, and refinement, while preserving the "Jeep" essence and affordable price point. Longer, taller, and riding on a bigger wheelbase, the Liberty is available with a 2.4-liter/154-horse four-cylinder and 3.7-liter/210-horse V-6. Two 4x4 systems offered, with the V-6 available with the premium Selec-Trac setup.
The Liberty Rubicon project vehicle was built to show how, in Jeep tradition, the vehicle can be personalized to fit the owner's specific desires.
DaimlerChrysler unveiled its concept interpretation of the classic "pure American" Jeep Willys by driving it out onto stage by a group on safari. Constructed of a one-piece carbon-fiber body with an aluminum frame and injection molded seats, the Willys concept is powered by a supercharged 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder engine with 160 horsepower, mated to four-speed transmission and a full-time four-wheel drive system.
The first all-new Land Rover since 1994 will be launched in North America at the end of this year. The five-door Freelander will be powered by Land Rover's KV6 engine, a 2.5-liter, 24-valve DOHC producing 175 horsepower and be mated to a five-speed Steptronic auto or five-speed manual shifter. The AWD SUV will also feature four-wheel electonic Traction Control (4ETC), Hill Descent Control (HDC), and all-terrain ABS. The molten orange Freelander Kalahari Concept vehicle (shown) has added a special a-frame nudge bar, heavy-duty skidplate and towing receiver, winch, roof-mounted light bar with spot- and foglights, as well as many other active-use items.
Lexus has expanded the cargo capacity of its rear-drive sport sedan by adding a non-conventional wagon back. Expected to appeal to youthful, recreation seekers, the SportCross will be offered in one high-content level. All IS 300s benefit from new features for 2002, including brake assist, side curtain airbags, Vehicle Skid Control (VSC) system, and auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass. The sedan will now be offered with a five-speed manual transmission paired with a firmer suspension.
Termed the "jewel of Lexus," the stylish SC 430 adds a premium convertible to the automaker's lineup. Fitted with a retractable hardtop, the opulently equipped 2+2 transforms from coupe to open-air cruiser in 25 seconds. Inside and out, the SC 430 drips with style: Delicate shapes and elegant interior materials emanate sophistication. Powered by a 300-horsepower DOHC V-8, the SC 430 can race 0-60 in a claimed 5.9 seconds and reportedly reach a 156-mph top speed. Combining grace and speed, this jewel is the embodiment of "luxury sport."
Don't let the two-door hatchback profile fool you, this is a four-door sports car. Thanks to Mazda's "freestyle door system," suicide doors open wide to reveal the absence of center pillars for easy access to the back seats. Labeled a "design engineering model," the RX-8 is powered by Mazda's revolutionary RENESIS side-exhaust rotary engine producing 250 horsepower in naturally aspirated form. Signaling a sports car revival, the RX-8 is racing toward production.
Mercedes-Benz re-enters the hot rod ranks with its new C32 AMG supersedan. Powered by a new 349-horsepower, 3.2-liter supercharged and intercooled V-6 Kompressor engine, the new C32 develops nearly 300 lb-ft of torque and moves 0-60 mph in just 5 seconds. SpeedShift five-speed automatic transmission and racing brakes and suspension round out the sporty package.
The trim new coupe that made its debut last week at the Los Angeles Auto Show appeared here as well. In addition to its innovative panoramic sunroof, the C-Class Sports Coupe boasts smart front airbags, curtain side airbags, Tele Aid emergency call system, and ESP stability control. Powered by a 190-horsepower supercharged and intercooled engine, it is offered with either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic with Touch Shift manual gear selection.
Building on the success of the popular C-Class sedan introduced last September, the C320 wagon will be available next fall powered by a 215-hp, 3.2-liter V-6 engine. A long list of standard equipment includes safety items like smart front airbags, curtain side airbags, Tele Aid emergency call system, and ESP stability control. Its flexible interior allows one or both of the rear seats to fold, providing cargo capacity from 16.6 (with the seats up) to 48.9 cubic feet (both down).
Mercedes' exciting compact sports car combines a new supercharged V-6 Kompressor engine with a fully retractable electric hardtop for the ultimate convertible experience. The 349-horsepower AMG engine promises amazing performance and the new SpeedShift transmission allows up to 35-percent-quicker gear changes. When the going gets fast, 13.15-inch front and 11.8-inch rear brakes provide reliable stopping force under repeated use.
The smile-inducing Mini Cooper combines modern performance, refinement, and safety in an evolutionary package. The new car is 18 inches longer and 14 inches wider than the 10x4x4-foot original. Both the naturally aspirated 1.6-liter/125-horse four-cylinder Cooper and 160-plus-horse supercharged Cooper S will be available at launch in America, March 2002. The performance-tuned Cooper S most appeals to enthusiasts with its force-fed engine, tauter suspension, and more aggressive wheel/tire fitment. In a 2200-pound package, either Cooper powertrain is certain to deliver brisker acceleration than the output numbers suggest.
ASX, or Active Sports Crossover, combines sports sedan handling, international style, full-time four-wheel drive capability, and stretch-outroom for five adults in an all-season, multipurpose vehicle. The flexible interior balances space for passengers and cargo, while offering a "walk-through" semi-flat floor. Technical features include an advanced cruise control system and the Mitsubishi Multi-Communications System (MMCS), which includes on-board navigation capabilities. This dashing model is heading toward production.
The geo-mechanical RPM 7000 was designed to combine on-road performance, off-road ability, and passenger/cargo versatility without compromise. Illustrating its flexibility, the rally-inspired RPM 7000 can accommodate four adults in a teardrop-shaped coupe, or two-passengers and a full load of sports gear with an open rear cargo area. An intercooled, twin-turbo 315-horsepower engine puts power to either pavement or dirt through a variable torque all-wheel drive system and 19-inch wheels wearing V-rated tires.
Last spring, Nissan promised it would soon bring a full-size V-8 powered, U.S.-assembled truck to the market. The aT (alpha T) Concept is a radical design exercise toward that end with a massive front grille, bumper, and headlights; scooped hood; aggressive four-door body; and sharply sloped A-pillar and glass panel roof treatment. The aT Concept promises performance to match its powerful appearance, with a 300-horsepower 4.5-liter V-8 engine, rugged suspension, four-wheel drive, and four-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission.
Like the original Z car, Nissan's new Z is an intimate two-seater with a true hatchback body; beyond that, the design is completely revolutionary. Powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 producing more than 260 horsepower, and either a six-speed manual or five-speed auto, Nissan promises 0-60 mph in less than 6 seconds and a target price below $30,000. Nissan's new Z is scheduled to go on sale in mid-2002 as a 2003 model, along with a convertible version.
Designed on both sides of the pond with assistance from Bertone, the Olds O4 exhibits a Euro-inspired "architectonic theme." Underneath the exterior panels, the O4 features a complete chassis borrowed from the current Opel Astra. Spirited performance is assured with power delivered from a 1.8-liter, turbocharged Ecotech engine. The four-seater uses a flexible, lightweight targa top that allows several roof configurations. If well received, the O4 could inspire product from other, more secure GM divisions.
As if the Vibe we met at last week's LA Auto Show wasn't hot enough, Pontiac has spiced it up even more with a GT version. The sporty Vibe GT boasts a 11.5:1-compression-ratio, 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine with a six-speed manual tranny, boosting performance up to 180 horsepower while still retaining 28 mpg on the highway. Pontiac promises 0-60 mph in just over 8 seconds. Pontiac's Vibe and Vibe GT will go on sale in dealer showrooms next year as a 2003 model.
The familiar GT2 moniker has once again been applied to a race-destined 911. This rear-drive 911 Turbo variant produces a Viper-besting 462-horsepower from the 3.6-liter, twin-turbo, flat-six engine. Porschephiles can distinguish from the GT2 from the 911 Turbo by its enlarged front air inlet ports and giant, manually adjustable wing. Claimed top speed is 196, with 0-60 mph near 4 seconds. The GT2 goes on sale in Europe in May and reaches our shores in the summer.
Displayed downstairs near the similarly named Cunningham C7 was the first production Saleen S7, emoting supercar elitism with its lava-hot orange paint, gull-wing doors, and abundant shark gills. A Ford-based, 7.0-liter V-8 engine delivers 550 horsepower, 520 lb-ft. of torque, routed to the rear wheels through a six-speed transaxle. Three inches lower and 650 pounds lighter than a Lamborghini Diablo, the S7 promises world-class performance. In fact, Saleen claims a 200 mph top speed and 0-60 mph under four seconds for the race-trimmed S7R.
After years of being teased by the red-hot, rally-bred Subaru WRX model in Japan, American performance enthusiasts will finally be able to buy a turbocharged Impreza. Though not quite as powerful as the overseas legend, the U.S.-market sedan and wagon will still offer extreme performance in an all-wheel-drive package. The 227-horse four-cylinder is matched with a five-speed manual or four-speed auto transmission, sport-tuned suspension, 16-wheels, aggressive styling, and full roster of creature comforts.
Toyota's all-new Matrix combines the utility of an SUV with the style and performance of a sports car, and is designed to be active, adaptable, accommodating, with the affordability of a subcompact car. When it hits showrooms in about a year, Matrix will be available in three trim levels, in front- or four-wheel drive, and with either manual or automatic transmission. The sportiest Matrix will feature the Celica GT-S's 180-horsepower engine and six-speed manual tranny, as well as 17-inch wheels.
Volvo's Adventure Car Concept takes a peek at what a future Volvo SUV might look like, and while it's not planned for production, that could change depending on customer reactions. The ACC was designed to have carlike driving characteristics and safety features, a powerful yet economic engine, and generous interior space. Interior amenities include seating for four, a refrigerator, television, and high-performance audio system. Log your opinion at www.conceptcars.volvocars.se.
Volvo's Safety Car Concept was designed to promote superior vision for the driver using such features as open A-pillars woven from metal and Plexiglas, video cameras for increased visibility, and a driver's seating position that changes based on the position of the driver's eyes. Additionally, sensors alert the driver to vehicles hidden in blind spots, and headlights vary their brightness according to speed and light conditions and turn based on steering wheel input.
The new Jetta wagon that made its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show last week was here as well. The wagon provides 34 cubic feet of storage space. It will be available with a variety of engine choices and trim levels, with prices ranging from $18,600 to $24,500. The list of standard items includes premium sound system, four-disc ABS brakes, remote locks, and much more.
Looking a bit like Scooby Doo's Mystery Machine, Volkswagen's Microbus Concept was created not as a copy of the original, but as an evolution of its design (where have we heard that before?). It's not currently scheduled for production, but consumer reaction could change that. This concept featured narrow Xenon headlights, large sliding doors, and wide wheel arches to accommodate 20-inch alloy wheels. Three rows of seats and a seven-inch video monitor are interior highlights. Volkswagen also showed pickup truck and camper models based on the Microbus concept.
Volkswagen's Passat sedan and wagon have been freshened, with improvements including new design elements inside and out for improved safety, power, and comfort. The restyled front end features a sharply raked grille with strong chrome accents, seamless bumper transition, and new headlight design. Mechanically, the new Passat adds more dynamic rigidity and crash protection, along with VW's Side Curtain Protection system. Prices range from $21,450 to $32,375 depending on trim levels, engine choices, and body style.
Volkswagen of America donated a brand-new 2001 Eurovan to the Detroit Institute for Children during the show, where it was given a colorful paint job by Dallas artist Jimmy Sasso. The scheme was based on the work of five-year-old Sedrick Jackson of Detroit who won a VW "Van-Tastic" coloring contest in December. Read more about the multi-hued van at
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[cnn-photo-caption image= http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2009/images/09/22/art.wilson.0922-2.gi.jpg caption="Georgia congressman: Wilson's outburst 'carefully calculated'."]
WASHINGTON (CNN) – Rep. Hank Johnson is standing by his comments that Rep. Joe Wilson's "You lie!" outburst at President Obama "instigated more racist sentiment" and could lead to a resurgence of the Ku Klux Klan.
Johnson, a Georgia Democrat, wrote in the Atlanta Journal Constitution on Monday that he doesn't think that most of Obama's opponents are motivated by racism, but that he believes Wilson's comments "winked at a racist element" and that there is a small but "racially motivated fringe" among those who disapprove of the president and his policies.
"Wilson is a canny politician," Johnson said. "His outburst was a carefully calculated appeal to a particular constituency who question the legitimacy of Barack Obama's presidency. The symbolism of his act, which violated the rules of the House and attacked the dignity of the president's office, emboldened and validated those who believe that President Obama, despite having been lawfully elected, is an illegitimate occupant of the White House."
Johnson said that some feel "resentment that the president of the United States is a black man" and that the "risk of violence is real." He said he believes some of the angry protests during town hall meetings over the summer were also motivated by racism and warned that if that element of some opposition is ignored, it will "fester, grow and come back to haunt us in ways we haven't seen in decades."
"That is, ultimately, what my comments were meant to convey," he said. "The United States has shown a capacity for progress and self-improvement virtually unprecedented in human history. But let us not believe that the bad old days are so far behind us that racially driven violence could not once again rend our social fabric."
Johnson ultimately said he will not apologize for saying last week that Wilson's comments could lead to a revitalization of the Ku Klux Klan.
"I guess we'll probably have folks putting on white hoods and white uniforms again and riding through the countryside, intimidating people," Johnson said on September 15. "That's the logical conclusion if this kind of attitude is not rebuked."
Of course he staged his "outburst". He needs the money, the right is trying to make their base feel completely alienated from the mainstream, and since many of them are on conspiracy freaks anyway....
You can disagree, but Repubs have shown so much disrespect to the President on every issue. Typical mean-spirted, bigoted attitudes are shameless, more now than ever. Understandably so if you listen to Rush, Hannity and Beck. They don't run our country and people need to start listening to someone with educated, meaningful solutions.
This is ridiculous. Someone speaking their mind in about something they feel passionate about is not an act of racism. If a black man did that about Bush when he was in office would they have called it race motivated? Not likely....
Anyone who doesn't think racism still exists has their head in the sand. Whether or not Wilson's kindergarten liar, liar pants on fire outburst can be considered racially motivated is a moot point.
There are most definately fringe elements (think Aryan Brotherhood) that still exist today whose sole motivation is hatred based on race. These people are dangerous, armed domestic terrorists and I believe the question should be "when" not "if" there will again be deadly, race motivated violence.
Homeland Security had it right when they released their report on the wacko religious right wingnuts a few months ago. Racists go against everything God stands for...a bunch of wacko sick puppies.
The bigots don't really want to admit it to themselves and use every excuse to justify their actions. I just hope they are in the minority - and only wish the President were right that the segment were small. However, it only takes one person to act irrationally being encouraged by the hatred that is being demonstrated. Americans forget quickly; however, some of us remember how disliked President Kennedy was at the time of his administration. He went to Texas to smooth over things there; and we who were alive then remember what happened there. That was one time too much in a lifetime. Those who attack the President's actions in the way they do these days (not in a civil manner) certainly stir up those who cannot control their own actions.
How irritating, apparently every negative feeling about Obama's policies is because I'm racist?! Ludicrous! It is not those on the right who are avoiding political discourse on the laws being proposed in Congress, it is the left. Why isn't the media calling out the Democrats for ducking the issues?
Of course it was calculated. Calling the Commander in chief a liar before the assembled Congress and the world, plays well in redneck SC, and country club SC, in fact in plays well among most of this Congressmen's constituency. He will raise millions of dollars, win his election and will see an astonishing rise in stature among SC Republicans in general and Republicans everywhere. It's merely the continuation of the "Southern strategy", the only strategy sadly the party of Lincoln, Snowe, Dirksen, Javitis, and ironically Earl Warren has left. It appeals to our meanest and lowest common denominator, it has won elections before, and God help us it will again. Sign me a Georgia democrat, I know my folks well.
Amazed by the misunderstanding displayed in many of these posts – largely due to a result of not listening or reading carefully.
It's not the fact that they disagree with the President it is in the WAY they SHOW their disagreement.
Also, I'm getting weary of the childish claim that it is OK because they did it to Bush.
I voted for Bush and did not approve of how he was treated.
I voted for Obama and likewise do not approve of how he is being treated.
Now, that is really "fair and balanced"
Do you people really believe your own rhetoric? Do you think about what you wwrite or do you just parrot the party line?
Intelligent people (Democrats & Republicans) called Nixon a liar, Carter inept, GHWBush out of touch and Clinton a philanderer. We honored the Office even when the person occupying it was dishonorable. Yet when Junior Bush made reasoned decisions based on best intelligence of the moment, with the backing of the overwhelming majority of Americans, and the Army screwed it up, the Demoncrats booed POTUS in Congress.
Now a seasoned Congressman speaks a truth about an empty suit occupying the Office, a comment verified by the White House 4 days later. The demoncrats played the race cards because they didn't know what else to do.
He is being villified with character assassination cause they can't stand it that he was right.
As a minority whose earliest memories include hearing racist comments yelled at his father for no reason whatsoever...this argument by Johnson is plain ridiculous.
It is cowardice and manipulation to pull the "race card" when the merits of a position (such as President Obama's on health care) just don't withstand scrutiny. And when we're talking about a subject as important as our healthcare...doesn't it deserve the most rigorous scrutiny we can provide–no matter the color of the skin of its greatest advocate?
The more I read and listen to what democrats say, the more convinced I become that Aliens did crash-land in New Mexico back in 1947. And have been here ever since. How else can you explain democrats?
Im not saying because J. Wilson said you lie have anything to do with racism but id really do feel that there are people out there that donot like this President just because he is a black man and they cannot stand the fact that he is in the white house. I feel they believe that this President donot deserve to be President because of the color of his skin. But im so proud that we have others that are not racist and they just disagrees with this President views, then there are those who supports him wholeheartely. Thats ok if you disagree with this president at least if you do as long as you are doing it without racism and hatred in your heart ,some of us didnot agree with Former President G. Bush on everything either and racism had nothing to do with it.
Defending your position about healthcare reform makes you a concerned American and defending an idiot that disrespects the President of the United States dosen't necessarily make you a racist.
An Unpatriotic Classless Hateful Southern Clown Supporter it does make you.
wanting to defended him says it all.
Personally I think this line of thought is ridiculous. People shouldn't be afraid to criticize the President because of the race. It seems the liberals refuse to let this issue die even though the President wants it too. Think about it. Does the President want the issue of race to come up every time a disagreement on policy comes up and Polar Bears against Palin; you have to be the biggest snob I've seen on the blogging scene.

subset: commoncrawl


text: Hey dudes, Ever wanted to build you own hollow wooden surfboard. Now's your chance to do it with me, Rich Blundell, one of the original founders of Grain Surfboards. I developed an innovative (patent pending) method for hollow wooden surfboard construction and have recently launched a workshop program where amateur builders can build their own boards in 2-3 days. I'd like to try an organize a few workshops around the world. Feel like participating? Know a surfer who might be interested in hosting one of my workshops? In any case, you should check out http://treetosea.org (check the workshops sections). Any questions, ask'm here so all can see the answer.... Share the Stoke, Rich


text:
Can't wait to see who braved this and how they turned out!
You can get to the recipe at Amanda's blog: Girl+Food=Love
Can't wait to see who braved this and how they turned out!
You can get to the recipe at Amanda's blog: Girl+Food=Love
Three days to make, minutes to be consumed. Sigh.
A good learning experience…I'll do better next time
been out of town-running late and will be up later this week!
They were worth it!
Didn't have a huge success with these.
Ugh! Sorry for the error post here. I messed up my cutting and pasting!
Pingback: Croissants, or: how I learned to stop worrying and love the laminated dough | Saucy gander
it was definitely an experience…
While these croissants were absolutely wonderful it would have taken less time to take the Thalys to Paris to buy some at a pâtisserie there and bring them back home than to bake them myself!
Worth the effort!
Ohhhh, butter! Heavenly, but such effort required. :)
Wow! Sorry to be late!
3 hours left on the west coast!
Yummy, but a ton of work. http://lifeatfullvolume.blogspot.com/2013/03/baking-with-julia-croissants.html
I finished the chocolate ones and the almond ones and posted them as well! http://oneclevermom.blogspot.com/2013/03/twd-baking-with-julia-more-croissants.html
I know.. am really late.. but just couldnt put up the post last tuesday and didnt want to just let it be aftre all the effort..
Second attempt (first in the garbage) turned out much better!
Pingback: TWD: Croissants | Counter Dog


text:
This post by Edwin Okong'o comes via Rh Reality Check. Okong'o is a contributing blogger at RhReality check and an editor at New American Media (where the story was originally posted). Okong'o explains the cultural context under which the Ugandan "kill the gays" legislation could occur (Why Uganda? Why not Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia, or Wyoming — where plenty of people hate gays?). Okong'o's answer points in part to deep seated white supremacist beliefs — both by the religious proselytizers/colonizers and the religious proselytized/colonized:
"Having gone through schools reading mostly textbooks written by white men, Africans are programmed to accept any Western literature. Add the word of God to that and the white man's message becomes gospel truth. That's why when a white religious fanatic like Scott Lively writes in his book, "The Pink Swastika," that Nazis committed the Holocaust because they were gay, without hesitation Africans promise 'to stand firm to fight homosexuality.'"
Please read on below:
By Edwin Okong'o, New America Media
January 13, 2010 – 7:00am
There is a joke among Africans about how colonialism began. A Christian missionary came with a Bible in hand, told our ancestors to bow their heads for a prayer, and when they opened their eyes their land was gone. Today, the same can be said about African constitutions.
American religious right-wingers are flocking to Africa and are having more success in passing new legislation criminalizing homosexuality there than they are having in Alabama, Mississippi and Georgia.
The most vicious of those laws is in Uganda, where Parliament is now considering a bill that would make some homosexual acts punishable by death. Although they have denied it, evidence suggests that American right-wingers are in the forefront of this war on homosexuality.
Among them is the Fellowship Foundation, better known as the Family, a secretive but powerful evangelical club that includes U.S. senators and congressmen. Republican senators Jim Inhofe, Tom Coburn, John Ensign, Jim DeMint and Sam Brownback belong to the group. The group includes members like Mike McIntyre, a conservative Democratic congressman, who believes that the Ten Commandments are "the fundamental legal code for the laws of the United States."
Publicly, the Family's most prominent event is a National Prayer Breakfast held in Washington, D.C., which has been attended by congressmen, senators, and even presidents. In his book, "The Family: The Secret Fundamentalism at the Heart of American Power," New York University scholar Jeff Sharlet writes that of the Family's $14 million budget, "the bulk of it, $12 million, goes to 'mentoring, counseling, and partnering with friends around the world.'"
In other words, having failed to turn the United States into a true "Nation under God," American evangelicals are going to Africa to satisfy that calling. Is there a better place to create Christian nations than in a continent with nearly 500 million impoverished believers, and easily corruptible governments? Similar laws have been proposed, or exist, in Nigeria, Burundi, Rwanda and Malawi.
"You develop a relationship with the [African] presidents in the spirit of Jesus," Sen. Inhofe said in a February 2009 interview posted on the website of Faith and Action, an evangelical Christian group, whose "mission is to awaken the conscience of our nation by proclaiming Truth to those in positions of power."
In his book, Sharlet writes that Uganda's president Yoweri Museveni is the organization's "key man" in Africa. Museveni's relationship with the Family goes as far back as 1986, when he came to power following a bloody civil war. David Bahati, the Ugandan lawmaker who introduced the anti-gay bill, is also a member of the Family.
U.S. evangelical groups have gotten so close to African religious and political leaders that they openly conduct their hateful crusades. In early March 2009, for example, U.S. religious extremists played a central role in the "Seminar on Exposing the Homosexuals' Agenda" held in Kampala, Uganda. Among speakers was Scott Lively, a California evangelical pastor who heads Abiding Truth Ministry.
Rev. Kapya Kaoma, a Zambian priest who went undercover to the "viciously homophobic" conference, quoted one Ugandan attendee as saying, "The man of God (Scott Lively) told us about…a movement behind the promotion of homosexuality. … I got to know that there is a force behind homosexuality, which we need to tackle with force. He also told us that these people who are behind this…evil, they have all resources that they need…to spread this evil. We need to stand firm to fight homosexuality."
Evangelicals have managed to succeed in promoting homophobia by taking advantage of Africans' lack of adequate information. They have presented homosexuality as a new "culture," rather than something that has existed all along.
Kaoma quotes yet another Ugandan from the anti-gay conference: "Dr. Scott told us about Brazil where, 10 years ago, homosexuality was unheard of. Today, it is the capital. There are people that have been against homosexuality that are having to leave because of the pressure and the threats that they are putting on them. That is how serious it is."
Africans take such filth without questions because they suffer from a severe case of inferiority complex. Even worse, they staunchly believe in the supremacy of the white man. Ill-informed Christians like the ones Rev. Kaoma quotes above, place the white man immediately below the Holy Trinity, a belief with its roots in the colonial era.
Growing up in Kenya, I heard stories about how supernatural the white man was. When we did well in school, our parents and teachers said we were as intelligent as white men. When you went to take a bath, Ma told you to come out as clean as a white man. If the white doctor at the hospital failed to diagnose your disease, death was imminent.
Even among the "educated," this plague runs deep. In 2006, I mentioned to my younger brother — a graduate of a Kenyan university — that I had co-taught a writing class at the University of California, Berkeley, where I was studying journalism.
"Come on! Stop playing," he brushed me off and laughed.
When he was finally convinced that I was telling the truth, he asked, "Were there white students in the class?"
Having gone through schools reading mostly textbooks written by white men, Africans are programmed to accept any Western literature. Add the word of God to that and the white man's message becomes gospel truth. That's why when a white religious fanatic like Scott Lively writes in his book, "The Pink Swastika," that Nazis committed the Holocaust because they were gay, without hesitation Africans promise "to stand firm to fight homosexuality."
As I ponder over this issue I'm reminded of the 1980s, when Reinhard Bonnke, a German evangelist who claimed to have healing powers, visited Kenya. Business came to a halt, as people with all kinds of ailments traveled to Nairobi to seek his miracles. Kenyans flocked Bonnke's sermons because they believed that as a white man, he was closer to Jesus Christ than were black evangelists.
If Archbishop Manassas Kuria, who at the time was the Anglican primate of the Church of Kenya, had called a press conference to announce that he had healing powers, they would have laughed at him, and perhaps accuse him of blasphemy. Black clergymen do not perform miracles.
The belief that black people can only speak to God through white men is illustrated in the same interview Sen. Inhofe gave to Faith and Action. Inhofe describes the Family's work in a "miserable" village in Benin. The hamlet's name translates to "Village of Darkness," he says, and children "drink mud and die of dysentery." The evangelicals rescue the village by providing sanitary water.
When residents ask why the evangelicals have decided to shine light on the village, the Americans say, "Because we love you." And when they ask, "Why do you love us?" they answer, "Because Jesus loves us."
No one asks why Jesus didn't send love directly to Africa without going through middlemen. Inhofe says today the village has changed its name to "The Village of Jesus", thanks to the Savior's "miracles."
Now imagine telling such people that the "force behind homosexuality" threatens to corrupt their children and anger Jesus. They will "stand firm to fight" this "evil." Enacting laws allows them to hide the blood in their hands.


text:
Sumatriptan 4 mg Statdose in the Acute Treatment of Cluster Headache
|The safety and scientific validity of this study is the responsibility of the study sponsor and investigators. Listing a study does not mean it has been evaluated by the U.S. Federal Government. Read our disclaimer for details.
|ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00399243
Recruitment Status : Unknown
Verified January 2009 by Diamond Headache Clinic.
Recruitment status was: Recruiting
First Posted : November 14, 2006
Last Update Posted : February 2, 2009
- Study Details
- Tabular View
- Results Submitted
- Disclaimer
- How to Read a Study Record
|Condition or disease
|Episodic Cluster Headache Chronic Cluster Headache
|Drug: Sumatriptan 4mg Statdose injection
|Phase 4
This is an open label trial of sumatriptan 4 mg using the StatDose injector system for the treatment of acute attacks of cluster headache.
Patient entering the trial must either be in the first 3 weeks of an episodic cluster headache cycle or have chronic cluster headache. Patients with episodic cluster headache may have not begun taking preventive medications at the time of study or must be on a stable regimen of preventive medications. Patients with chronic cluster headache must be on a stable regimen of preventive medications.
Patients must be in good health with no contraindications to the use of sumatriptan such as either having or having increased risk factors for CAD or CVD. They may not take during the time of the study preventive medications that are 5HT1B/1D agonists. Episodic use of triptans, ergotamine, or dihydroergotamine is permitted provided they are not used within 24 hours of use of the study medication.
Patients will be required to treat 3 acute attacks of cluster headache with the study medication or to use more than 1 dose of study medication to fully treat an individual attack of cluster headache with a maximum of 3 doses of the study medication within a 24 hour time frame.
Efficacy of the study medication will be determined from diary data collected. Safety data will be determined by adverse events reported by the patient.
|Study Type :
|Interventional (Clinical Trial)
|Estimated Enrollment :
|20 participants
|Intervention Model:
|Single Group Assignment
|None (Open Label)
|Primary Purpose:
|Official Title:
|4mg StatDose Imitrex for Acute Treatment of Cluster Headache
|Study Start Date :
|November 2006
|Estimated Primary Completion Date :
|August 2010
|Estimated Study Completion Date :
|August 2010
- Drug: Sumatriptan 4mg Statdose injection
4mg Sumatriptan Statdose injection for use as acute therapy in a cluster headache. Consistency of response in three attacks will be measured
- The primary efficacy parameters will be the percentage of cluster headache attacks that result in the cluster headache pain being reduced to mild or none following a single dose of 4 mg subcutaneous sumatriptan at 15 minutes and at 30 minutes. [ Time Frame: 15 minutes and 30 minutes ]
- The time meaningful relief of cluster headache. [ Time Frame: Meaningful Relief ]
- The percentage of attacks that produce a pain free response to a single dose of sumatriptan 4 mg subcutaneous at 15 minutes, 30 minutes and at 1 hour. [ Time Frame: 30 minutes and 1 Hour ]
- The percentage of attacks of migraine that result in resolution of all associated symptoms of cluster headache present at the time of treatment with the study medication as well as achieving a pain free response within 1hour. [ Time Frame: 1 hour ]
- The number of patients reporting adverse effects to study medication, the type of adverse event reported and the percentage of attacks that are associate with the adverse effect. [ Time Frame: Length of study ]
- The percentage of patients who achieve pain reduced to mild or none at 15 minutes or at 30 minutes respectively for all three treated headache attacks. [ Time Frame: 15 minutes and 30 minutes ]
- The percentage of patients who achieve pain reduced to mild or none at 15 minutes or at 30 minutes respectively for two out of three treated headaches. [ Time Frame: 15 minutes and 30 minutes ]
- The percentage of patients who become pain free at 15 minutes or 30 minutes or at 1 hour respectively or at any combination of the three time points for all three headache attacks. [ Time Frame: 15 minutes, 30 minutes, and 1 hour ]
- Patient evaluation of subcutaneous sumatriptan 4 mg regarding satisfaction with their treatment using the PPMQR assessment. [ Time Frame: End of treatment ]
- The percentage of attacks in which the pain was reduced to moderate or mild and for which the patient took a second and or a third dose of the study medication. [ Time Frame: Length of study ]
- The percentage of attacks in which the patient became pain free at or before 1 hour and experienced a recurrence of cluster headache and in which a second or third dose of study medication was taken. [ Time Frame: 1 hour ]
- The percentage of cluster headaches in which the patient became free at or before 1 hour and experienced a recurrence of cluster headache. [ Time Frame: 1 hour ]
- The mean time to meaningful pain relief across three treated headache attacks. [ Time Frame: Length of study ]
Choosing to participate in a study is an important personal decision. Talk with your doctor and family members or friends about deciding to join a study. To learn more about this study, you or your doctor may contact the study research staff using the contacts provided below. For general information, Learn About Clinical Studies.
|Ages Eligible for Study:
|18 Years to 65 Years (Adult, Older Adult)
|Sexes Eligible for Study:
|Accepts Healthy Volunteers:
Inclusion Criteria:
- Subject is between 18 years and 65 years of age.
- Subject is male or female. If female the subject is:
- non-childbearing potential or,
- child-bearing potential, has a negative pregnancy test at screen, and agrees to one of the following: Complete abstinence from intercourse from 2 weeks prior to administration of the study drug, throughout the study, and for a time interval after completion or premature discontinuation from the study to account for elimination of the investigational drug (a minimum of 10 hours); or,
- Female sterilization; or,
- Sterilization of male partner; or,
- Implants of levonorgestrel; or,
- Injectable progestogen; or,
- Oral contraceptive (combined or progestin only) or,
- Any intrauterine device (IUD) with published data showing that the lowest expected failure rate is less than 1% per year; or,
- Double barrier method; (2 physical barriers or 1 physical barrier plus spermicide).
- Subject has a diagnosis of cluster headache (IHS).
- Subject has at least 1 previous cycle of cluster headache if episodic or has been in chronic cluster headache for at least 6 months.
- Subject taking any medication for chronic cluster headache prevention has been on a stable regimen for at least 1 month prior to screening.
- Subjects with episodic cluster headache have a history of continuing to have cluster headaches at least once every other day during the first three weeks of treatment with preventive medications.
- Subject is able and willing to give written informed consent to participate in the study.
- Subject who have used 6 mg StatDose Imitrex for the treatment of cluster headache must have a history of responding to treatment with this in at least 1 out every 3 attacks.
Exclusion Criteria:
- Subject has confirmed or suspected ischemic heart disease, Prinzmetal's angina, or signs/symptoms consistent with any of the above.
- Subject has cardiac arrhythmias requiring medication or a history of a clinically significant electrocardiogram abnormality that, in the investigator's opinion contraindicates participation in this study.
- Subject has a history of congenital heart disease.
- Subject has a history of cerebrovascular pathology including stroke.
- The subject, in the investigator's opinion, is likely to have unrecognized cardiovascular disease.
- Subject has evidence or history of ischemic abdominal syndromes or peripheral vascular disease.
- Subject has uncontrolled hypertension at screening.
- Subject has a history of epilepsy or structural brain lesions which lowers the convulsive threshold.
- Subject has a history of impaired hepatic or renal function.
- Subject is currently taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAO) or has taken a MAOI within the 2 weeks prior to screen
- Subject is currently taking an ergotamine-containing or ergot-type cluster headache preventive medication like ergotamine tartrate or methylergonovine.
- Subject has hypersensitivity or contraindication to the use of sumatriptan, any of its components, or any other 5-HT1B1D receptor agonist.
- Subject is pregnant, actively trying to become pregnant or breast-feeding
- Subject is of childbearing potential and not using adequate contraceptive measures.
- Subject has evidence of alcohol or substance abuse within the last year which, in the investigator's judgment, will likely interfere with the study conduct, subject cooperation, or evaluation and interpretation of the study results.
- Subject has any concurrent medical or psychiatric condition that, in the investigator's opinion, may affect the interpretation of efficacy and safety date or which otherwise contraindicates participation in a clinical trial.
- Subject has participated in an investigational drug trial within the previous four weeks.
- Subject is unable or unwilling to self administer subcutaneously administered Imitrex.
To learn more about this study, you or your doctor may contact the study research staff using the contact information provided by the sponsor.
Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier (NCT number): NCT00399243
|Contact: Fred G Freitag, DO
|773 388 6390
|Contact: George Nissan, DO
|773 388 6390
|United States, Illinois
|Diamond Headache Clinic
|Chicago, Illinois, United States, 60614
|Contact: Nancy Caldwell, RN 773-388-6390 email@example.com
|Sub-Investigator: Fred G Freitag, DO
|Sub-Investigator: George Nissan, DO
|Sub-Investigator: Merle Diamond, MD
|Sub-Investigator: George Urban, MD
|Sub-Investigator: Betsy Pepper, MD
|Principal Investigator:
|Seymour Diamond, MD
|Diamond Headache Clinic
|Responsible Party:
|Frederick Freitag, D.O., Diamond Headache Clinic
|ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
|Other Study ID Numbers:
|First Posted:
|November 14, 2006 Key Record Dates
|Last Update Posted:
|February 2, 2009
|Last Verified:
|January 2009
cluster headache
Cluster Headache
Neurologic Manifestations
Trigeminal Autonomic Cephalalgias
Headache Disorders, Primary
Headache Disorders
Brain Diseases
Central Nervous System Diseases
Nervous System Diseases
Vasoconstrictor Agents
Serotonin 5-HT1 Receptor Agonists
Serotonin Receptor Agonists
Serotonin Agents
Neurotransmitter Agents
Molecular Mechanisms of Pharmacological Action
Physiological Effects of Drugs


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text:
KidZone Science
Planet Facts
Read some really neat facts about the planets in our solar system!
© Contributed by
Note: The fast facts on this page are appropriate for grades 1 to 3 while the "more about" links are appropriate for grades 4+.
You can also check out all of our printable planetary worksheets to go with these fun facts. They're out of this world!
I've listed them in order from closest to furthest from the sun:
- Mercury
- Venus
- Earth
- Mars
- Ceres (dwarf planet found in the asteroid belt)
- Jupiter
- Saturn
- Uranus
- Neptune
- Pluto (Note: Pluto is considered a dwarf planet now)
- Eris, Makemake, Haumea, Sedna (also dwarf planets -- found past Pluto)
Mercury takes 59 days to make a rotation but only 88 days to circle the Sun. That means that there are fewer than 2 days in a year!
Many astronomers believe that Mercury might be the core of what was once a much larger planet -- it appears to be a huge ball of iron covered by a thin layer of rock.
Venus is the brightest planet in our sky and can sometimes be seen with the naked eye if you know where to look. It is the solar system's brightest planet -- yellow clouds of sulfuric acid reflect the sun's light.
Earth has more exposed water than land. Three quarters of the Earth is covered by water! The earth has one moon.
Mars is the home of "Olympus Mons", the largest volcano found in the solar system. It stands about 27 kilometers high with a crater 81 kilometers wide.
Between Mars and Jupiter, is a Dwarf Planet known as Ceres. It was discovered in 1801. It is the smallest dwarf planet discovered in our universe (so far) and is the only one found in the asteroid belt. A dwarf planet is NOT a planet -- the solar system is made up of:
- a star (the sun),
- planets (ex: jupiter and earth),
- satellites (ex: the moon),
- dwarf planets (ex: Ceres and Pluto), and
- small solar system bodies (ex: asteroids and comets).
Jupiter is the largest planet in the solar system, but it spins very quickly on its axis. A day on Jupiter lasts only 9 hours and 55 minutes. Ack, I get dizzy just thinking about it!
Jupiter is so big that you could fit all the other planets in the solar system inside it.
The red spot of Jupiter is the biggest, most violent storm in the known universe -- that spot is at least three times the size of earth!
more about Jupiter >
(including actual photos)
Saturn is the second biggest planet, but it's also the lightest planet. If there was a bathtub big enough to hold Saturn, it would float in the water!
The rings that surrounds Saturn could be the remnants of a moon that was shattered by Saturn's gravity. Saturn's rings are as wide as 22 planet earths all in a row but are only 30 feet thick!
more about Saturn >
(including actual photos)
Uranus' axis is at a 97 degree angle, meaning that it orbits lying on its side! Talk about a lazy planet.
Uranus has the second most complex set of rings in our solar system (Saturn has the most defined rings).
Neptune was discovered in 1846. In 2011 it finally made it's first lap around the sun since we discovered it -- because one Neptune year lasts 165 Earth years!
Like Jupiter, Neptune has a dark spot caused by a storm. Neptune's spot is smaller than Jupiter's -- it is only about the size of the planet earth.
Pluto's orbit sometimes brings it closer to the Sun than Neptune. It jumped ahead of Neptune on September 5, 1989 and remained there until February, 1999 when it went back to being the farthest.
Note: Pluto is no longer considered a planet -- instead, astronomers call it a dwarf planet or planetoid. Whatever the name, our solar system isn't the neat model we once thought it was. It takes a bit for grown-ups (like me!) to adapt to the changes in our understanding (I now understand a bit better how folks felt when someone started telling them the earth was round not flat!)
NASA photo
On July 14, 2015, the NASA space probe "New Horizons" finally made it to Pluto after its 9.5 year journey. It took lots of cool photos of Pluto and its moons and sent them back to us on Earth. Then it continued off into space -- who knows where it will end up!
To me, Pluto just keeps getting more awesome despite it losing its place as one of our planets (when I was young, it was my favorite). I love that thanks to projects like New Horizons, we now know that Pluto has a cute little heart shaped area on it. Yep... Pluto has a heart!
In January 2005, astronomers in the United States discovered a new body orbiting the sun in our solar system. They named this planetoid, Eris after the Greek goddess of strife.
Eris takes approximately 550 earth years to orbit the sun. The majority of the time, it is further from the sun than Pluto, but for a short time, it is closer.
Eris is actually larger than Pluto (it is the ninth largest object orbitting our sun discovered so far!)
Makemake and Haumea are dwarf planets just like Pluto, but a little further out in our solar system. Because their orbits are not perfect circles, they trade places in terms of which is closer and which is further from the sun.
Both were discovered in late 2004/early 2005.
Haumea has a squished egg shape -- thought to be the result of a collision from an asteroid or meteor at some time.
In 2004, astronomers in universities in the United States discovered a new body orbiting the sun in our solar system. They named this planetoid, Sedna after the Inuit goddess of the Ocean. This is the furthest orbiting body identified in our solar system to date.
Sedna is about three times further from our sun than Pluto. It takes between 10,500 and 12,000 earth years for Sedna to make one orbit around the sun (we haven't quite figured out exactly how long it takes).
the most beautiful craft I've ever seen!
Definition of a 'Planet': What makes something 'beautiful'? Is a Picasso painting beautiful? Or do you prefer a photograph? Or perhaps the first frog paper craft ever created by a beloved three year old is where beauty lies for you.
Definitions are created by people to describe the universe that surrounds us. But we don't have a 'King of Definitions' to tell us when we've got it right! Sometimes we all agree on what something means and sometimes we don't.
There is no 'King of Definitions' in charge of deciding what is a planet and what is not. These decisions are the result of a lot of thinking and conversation by a lot of very smart people. And these decisions change over time as our knowledge grows and changes.
Where we stand now, there are 8 'planets' in our solar system and a number of planetoids (dwarf planets). The biggest deciding factor that makes something a planet is that it orbits on the same plane, that it has significant gravity and that it is a large enough size.
It will be interesting to see how our solar system shapes up as astronomers discover more and more through technologies such as the Hubble Telescope!
Note: This section last updated in July 2015. Our understanding of our solar system is always being updated due to new technologies and new discoveries!


text:
Swanson, Claude Augustus
Swanson, Claude Augustus, 1862–1939, American politician, b. Pittsylvania co., Va. He practiced law in Chatham, Va., and after serving (1893–1905) in the U.S. House of Representatives he was (1906–10) governor of Virginia. In the U.S. Senate (1910–33), Swanson became recognized as one of the foremost authorities on naval and foreign affairs in the United States; he was a delegate to the London Naval Conference in 1931 and the Geneva Disarmament Conference in 1932. As U.S. Secretary of the Navy (1933–39), Swanson directed a vast naval expansion program.
The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2023, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.
See more Encyclopedia articles on: U.S. History: Biographies


text:
Silver Electrodes outperform regular carbon electrodes with their increased conductivity and distribution of charge across the pad. Using Silver Coated TENS Electrodes can improve electrode stimulation treatment dramatically. Quality TENS Electrodes means less replacement costs down the line. We carry only the top of the line silver electrodes, and are confident that you will be pleased with their performance. They can be used as TENS Electrodes or Muscle Stimulator Electrodes. Prolong the life of your TENS Unit Electrodes by purchasing our Electrode Care Kit!
|Have Questions about Electrodes?
|Answers to your TENS Unit Questions
Why use Silver Electrodes instead of Carbon Electrodes?
Silver Electrodes refer to carbon electrodes that include a thin layer of silver between the pad and the backing where the actual wire connection is made. This silver forms a better connection between the wire lead and the electrode, and distributes the electricity more uniformly across the pad. Silver Electrodes are slightly more expensive to produce, but they are substantially more effective at delivering the electrode stimulation treatment to the effected site.
Results of a dispersion test on Silver Eleoctrodes vs. Carbon Electrodes will show a much greater dispersion area with more intensity on the silver coated electrode.
Our silver electrodes also use copper lead wires with special heads that help promote greater dispersion and prevent wire pull out. You simply cannot buy a better TENS Unit Electrode!
Whether you are using a TENS unit, Muscle Stimulator, Interferential unit or a Galvanic unit, you will get a lot more out of it using a silver coated electrode.
What is the advantage of foam backed electrodes?
Many clinical therapists recommend foam backed electrodes when the treatment is combining hot and cold therapies with electrode stimulation. The foam backing repells mosture created by the treatment and ads insulation between the external therapy and the electrode pad. Many of our customer prefer the foam backed electrodes for their smooth touch and flexibility, though they are somewhat more high profile than the mesh backing. Mesh or cloth backing is lower profile and generally slightly more flexible than thier foam backed counterparts.
What type of gel do you recommend?
We select all of our electrodes from reputable suppliers and most of our electrodes feature a brand name or an American made gel for maximum reusability. This adds a slightly higher cost to the manufacturing process and to the price of the electrodes. There are less expensive electrodes available using a foreign made adhesive and we are currently testing thier reusability to make sure that usage is up to our standards. Some of our economy electrodes currently using a foreign made gel and feedback has be very good.
How do I properly care for my electrodes for maximum use?
We recommend that you purchase our Essential TENS Care kit with your electrodes. View this short video describing the proper care and usage of your electrodes:
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) is a non-invasive, drugfree method of controlling pain. TENS Units use tiny electrical impulses sent through the skin to nerves to modify your pain perception. The main use of a TENS machine is for pain relief, particularly in the case of chronic pain. It is most often used for joint or muscle pain that won't go away, but can also be used to help treat nerve problems without resorting to drugs. It isn't uniformly effective, that is, different people will have different results. For some, TENS electrical pulses interrupt the pain signals so effectively that they are literally without pain. For others, the relief is nearly non-existent, but most commonly, this treatment provides considerable relief from the chronic pain that haunts the user.When the TENS Unit overrides the pain signal, it "tricks" the brain into thinking their is NO PAIN. TENS Units provide relief with nerve stimulation for back pain, foot pain, shoulder pain, neck pain, and virtually any other acute or chronic pain.
How does a TENS Unit help pain?
Two small electrodes that are placed on either side of the area where the pain originates. The higher frequencies tend to block the pain signals, while much lower frequencies will stimulate the body to produce endorphins which naturally reduce pain. When the TENS Unit overrides the pain signal, it "tricks" the brain into thinking their is NO PAIN. TENS Units provide relief with nerve stimulation for back pain, foot pain, shoulder pain, neck pain, and virtually any other acute or chronic pain.
What is the difference between TENS and Muscle Stimulation?
The main difference between the two is that a muscle stimulator is used to cause muscle contraction, while TENS focuses on nerve stimulation and tries to avoid contracting the muscles. Both use electrical pulses to do their job, but have different purposes. Muscle Stimulation is a very similar machine to the TENS, also using two electrodes to send electrical pulses through the body. However, the purpose is quite different. Here, the purpose is to cause the muscles to contract and the reasons have nothing to do with pain relief.
Both TENS machines and muscle stimulators have their uses, but they are very different in their reasons for being used. If you are looking for an alternative to standard pain relief, then the TENS machine is what you should be looking at. However, for the prevention of atrophied muscles and to define specific muscle groups, the muscle stimulator is the way to go.
What is does Single, Dual or Quad Channel mean?
Generally, the TENS or muscle stimulator signal is between two electrodes or on a single channel. Therefore, the user can apply electrode stimulation to one site per channel. A dual channel device allows for stimulation in two locations using 4 electrodes and a quad channel device can use up to 8 electrodes. It is not necessary to use all of the channels available on a device, but each channel requires a pair of electrodes.
The modes of the device refer to preset stimulation effects with changes to pulse rate, pulse width, modulation, frequency and sometimes amplitude. These modes are sometimes programs that start off at a certain rate and then proceed to other modes of stimulation. The purpose of these modes are to help the user quickly and effectively apply a therapy that is suitable for an individual complaint. Stimulation can be very specific to an area of the body and the cause of the pain. For instance, the Ultima 20 mode device has specific mode setting for Neck, Torticollis, Low Back, Sciatica, Epicondylitis, Wrist Pain, Post-Surgery knee pain, Ankle sprain, Knee pain, Hip pain, Menstrual pain, and Neuralgia, as well as, 8 additional preset modes.
How are IF Units and Galvanic Units different from TENS Units?
Interferential Stimulation differs from TENS because it allows a deeper penetration of the tissue with more circulation and comfort.
Interferential Stimulator (I.F. Unit) is used to treat, relieve and manage chronic pain. It can also be used as adjunctive treatment in the management of post surgical and post traumatic acute pain. Interferential Units provide deeper stimulation that traditional TENS Units.
Galvanic stimulation is most useful in acute injuries associated with major tissue trauma with bleeding or swelling. In contrast to TENS and IF units, which apply alternating current, galvanic stimulators apply direct current. High-voltage Pulsed Galvanic Stimulation (HVPGS) is being used for wound healing, edema reduction and pain relief carpal tunnel syndrome and diabetic neuropathy are examples of where galvanic stimualation is used. Direct current creates an electrical field over the treated area that, theoretically, changes blood flow. The positive pad behaves like ice, causing reduced circulation to the area under the pad and reduction in swelling. The negative pad behaves like heat, causing increased circulation, reportedly speeding healing.


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Google has hired Noah Falstein as its "Chief Game Designer," lending credence to the rumors that the company may be moving forward with its plans to further establish a native gaming presence on Android. The hire was discovered by TechCrunch, who found Falstein's LinkedIn profile listing his new title as "Chief Game Designer at Android Play Studio." The LinkedIn profile no longer lists the position, but the news was later confirmed by The Verge.
We've already seen Google leap into gaming with last year's Ingress, a near-real-time, augmented reality online game developed by NianticLabs@Google. There have also been leaks of code apparently pointing to an upcoming gaming portal for Android, à la Apple's Game Center. To top off the rumors, Google I/O has several sessions dedicated to developments in mobile gaming specifically on Android. When all of these things come together, it's hard not to get a little excited about Google's potential gaming future.
Falstein has been in the gaming industry since 1980 and was one of the first to be employed at LucasArts (née Lucasfilm Games). He's worked on Sinistar, Battlehawks 1942, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade: The Graphic Adventure, and Hungry Red Planet. His most recent work was as a freelance design consultant to several major studios, including Microsoft, LucasArts, and Disney. He serves on the advisory board for the Games for Health Conference and Serious Games Summit.
Noah Falstein
It's unclear if Falstein's background in non-traditional gaming will be a part of Google's gaming footprint, but it'll be interesting to see what the search giant has in store with Falstein officially on board. Hopefully we'll find out more at Google I/O, May 15-17 in San Francisco.


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Best Route to Retirement Security
Boost your nest egg with these 401(k) alternatives
En español | It's been no easy feat, watching your retirement nest egg wobble these past years. You've done what the financial gurus advised — you started socking money away in your 401(k) eons ago with the expectation that it would sustain you comfortably in retirement. But with this last recession, your account just hasn't bounced back like you'd hoped.
Exhibit A: In 2007, the average household in this country had a 401(k) balance of around $78,000. Following the dizzying stock market drop of 2008, retirement savers are still climbing their way back with average balances so far at only about $63,000.
What's more, the whole financial logic of the 401(k) has come into question.
You were always told that after you retired, you would drop to a lower tax bracket. So shelter your money now in a 401(k) and pay the IRS less when the money comes out. But the nation's deficit crisis has many experts wondering whether taxes will go up in the years ahead. If that happens, your promised tax savings could vanish. You might even pay more than you would now.
So what can you really rely on?
In part, your 401(k), experts say. Don't abandon it. But even Ted Benna, who is widely acknowledged as having invented the first 401(k) in 1981, has said that the new kind of account was never meant to be the sole vehicle for retirement saving.
The best route, many financial advisers now say, is to feed your 401(k) with whatever amount it takes to get your employer's full match. Then, with any extra money you can scrape together, consider these alternative moves:
• Explore an IRA. With an individual retirement account, the 50-plus can stash away an additional $6,000 annually. There's a distinct advantage here over your 401(k): You have your pick of the full universe of investments, not just the limited selection offered by your employer's plan.
With a traditional IRA, you make contributions tax-free. When you withdraw, generally after age 59 1/2, the money is taxed as income.
With a Roth IRA, you're taxed on the front end, but you get to run off with your earnings tax-free when you withdraw. And you don't have to lose sleep wondering whether your future tax bracket will be higher than today's.
If you go the IRA route, it's wise to educate yourself about investment options or seek the advice of a financial planner who can help you build your portfolio.
• Think bonds. Not the James variety, but almost as dependable. Consider them good friends who will stick by you during a stock market storm. Bonds "are safe fixed-income securities, which have low risk," says Chris McLean, a principal at the wealth management firm Signature in Charlottesville, Va. When you purchase a bond, you're essentially lending money to a borrower that promises to pay interest over the life of the bond and repay the face value when it matures. You can get individual bonds through brokers or buy into bond funds.
If you've got the cash and want to go to town with the idea, talk with a pro about a "laddering" strategy — purchasing multiple bonds with staggered maturity dates, which will help smooth out any ups and downs in the market.
• Get insured. Some people have set a goal that no matter what happens, they want something to be left over to will to a loved one. If that's your thinking, consider using a portion of your assets to purchase a permanent insurance policy, advises Paul Markowich, senior financial professional at Firstrust Financial Resources in Philadelphia.
Married couples should look into survivorship insurance — the premiums will be lower because the death benefit will only be paid after the second spouse passes away. "The advantage with this strategy," says Markowich, "is you will have the peace of mind and ability to spend more of your assets during your lifetime, knowing that upon your passing a financial legacy will be left."
• Don't fall for the old okey doke. It's tempting to jump on any range of get-rich-quick schemes out there. If someone suggests you take a lump sum for your retirement and start flipping houses or become an angel investor in a new start-up company, think twice. No, thrice. It's a little late in the game for big gambles. Keep your eyes on the prize and simply make smart choices to save, not spend. Speaking of saving …
• Spend less, save more now. Basic principle, right? Living comfortably in retirement may mean cutting back on expenses. Set a budget and live within your means so you can try some of the above saving alternatives.
Boomers "will have to make sacrifices in order to ensure the retirement they envisioned," says Lynn Mayabb, senior managing adviser at BKD Wealth Advisors, Kansas City, Mo.
"The only things people can control are how much they save, how much they spend."


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In our newest birthday eCard, Old People Smell, you can let that someone special know that they are getting older & beginning to develop that old person smell. We talked more with Neil Housego to learn about the artistic ability reeking from him.
1. Where did you go to school?
I went to school at Ravensbourne College of Design and Communication and graduated with a BA in Three Dimensional Design, way back in 1997. I'm a self taught animator, but in recent times I've been lucky enough to get to know the amazing Matt Williames (Coraline, Princess and the Frog). His advice and passion for the discipline has really helped me to grow as an artist.
2. How long did this card take to animate?
I took one weekend to complete all the character design and development. Then the following two weekends to take it from the pencil test stage all the way through to painting and compositing.
3. Where did your inspiration come from?
As with all my work, the main inspiration for the piece comes from life and observing the things going on around me. It sounds so cliche but it really is an endless source of inspiration. Also I think one of my favourite artists the legendary Playboy cartoonist Erich Sokol may be in there somewhere.
4. Do you think old people really do smell?
Just a little bit, but that's endearing, right?
If you would like to see more of Neil's work you can visit his portfolio here: www.cargocollective.com/neilhousego.
Have a friend with a birthday? Send this eCard or another one of our funny birthday eCards. Smell ya later!


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Oldest of zoo gorillas turns 56 in central Ohio
Associated Press
COLUMBUS, Ohio - The first gorilla born in a zoo is turning 56 and celebrating her birthday with some special treats at her central Ohio home.
The Association of Zoos and Aquariums says the female western lowland gorilla named Colo is the oldest gorilla in any zoo. She was born at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in 1956.
The zoo marked Colo's birthday Saturday with a cake specially prepared for her and other gifts, including her favorite food, tomatoes. The zoo included guests in the fun by having them sing "Happy Birthday."
Colo is a mother of three. Her family tree includes more than two dozen descendants living at zoos across the country.


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Review: Shadowfever (The Fever series #5), by Karen Marie Moning
TLDR recap:
Rainbow Mac 1.0 is long gone, leaving a more hardened, determined, black-leather-wearing Mac 5.0 to unravel the final mysteries surrounding the Sinsar Dubh and the King of all the Fae.
***** There are no outright spoilers in this review! If you have not read the first four books in this series and want absolutely no information or hints about what will happen in them, then do not read this review. While there are no actual spoilers, there are some vague hints that are intended for readers who have already finished up through Dreamfever. *****
- Title: Shadowfever
- Series: The Fever series – book #5
- Author: Karen Marie Moning
- Prominent Characters: Mac Lane, Jericho Barrons, V'lane
- Recommended reader age: 17+
- Sexual content level: Moderate, somewhat explicit
This series really grabs you and takes you along for a mysterious, dark, and sexy ride! In my review of Darkfever (the first book in the Fever series), I complained about all the self-indulgent "I'm so pretty" commentaries the reader is forced to endure from Mac as she learns her way around Dublin and starts investigating her sister's murder. Thankfully, we see the last of that in the third book (and it is much less prominent after Darkfever anyway) when Mac is forced to deal with some very traumatic circumstances of her own. By book 5, Mac is a weapon forged of diligence, suffering, and self-discovery and she is more determined than ever to get to the bottom of the chaos her world has become.
For a series with such a violently and sexually volatile male lead, there is a whole lotta sexual tension and buildup. How does Mac keep her hands off Barrons for so long?! Barrons is the ultimate alpha male, seemingly invincible and terrifyingly reliable at keeping Mac alive. After the shocking events at the end of book 4 (Dreamfever), I raced online to download Shadowfever and find out what would happen next. This book does not disappoint! It successfully resolves multiple plot questions and hanging threads, while continuing to drive the main storylines and relationships.
There is OH so much more I'd like to say about this book and the characters in it, but I'm trying really hard not to post spoilers, so we'll leave those discussions for the comments below. Consider yourself warned! *grin*
Memorable quotes:
Conversations with the Sinsar Dubh…
Your logic is flawed. Time is not forever. It is always. Past, Present, and Future. There was a time in the past when you did not exist. Therefore, you are not God.
Arguing with Barrons is either sadism or foreplay…
I didn't say I didn't like you. 'Like' is such a puerile word. Mediocre people like things. The only question of any significant emotive content is: Can you live without it?
On parental wisdom…
Daddy told me once that we believe others are capable of the worst we ourselves are capable of.
If you like Shadowfever of The Fever series…
If you enjoyed Shadowfever and the Fever Series, you may also like the the Cassandra Palmer series (starting with Touch the Dark) by Karen Chance. Cassie shares the same "it's a good day when no one is trying to kill me" philosophy, and also frequently finds herself in amusing-yet-dangerous situations where she has to use her wits and still-developing special skills to prevail. Both are more urban fantasy than paranormal romance, and both focus on a central young strong female character who is instrumentally necessary in solving some big world-wide crisis.
If you enjoy the intensity of Barrons and are looking for more male leads with his authority and style of presence, check out the Black Dagger Brotherhood stories by J.R. Ward, starting with Wrath's book, Dark Lover. The brothers typically each get a book, meaning less time with each couple, but their storylines arc throughout the entire series, making it a really compelling ensemble piece.
If you like Barrons for his cheeky wit and prowess in bed, definitely read the Night Huntress series by Jeaniene Frost, starting with Halfway to the Grave. Bones is sexy, smart, loyal, powerful, and has a British accent – just about everything you could ask for in a hero.
Final thoughts:
If you have not read this series, START IT NOW! Barrons makes even the Black Dagger Brotherhood males pale in comparison to his intensity and authority. Bold claims, I know… but true! It probably helps that Barrons and Mac get a whole 5 books devoted to their journey, and the journey is not (like so many other series in this genre) based around their relationship, but rather world-changing catastrophic events and consequences.
The Fever series is an addicting coming of age story in a world where nothing is as it seems and secrets are the new currency. From books 3-5, I literally could not stop reading! I was on a two-week Pacific Northwest vacation getaway and all I could think about was finding out the next shocker in Mac's journey. I was initially drawn to the series when Barrons beat out some other major male players in the paranormal romance/urban fantasy genres in an online "alpha" competition. The rabid loyalty of Barrons' fans piqued my interest (he's more popular than Bones!), and I am SO glad I chose to read this series. Here's what I recommend: find some down time, a week or so, and read the Fever Series start to finish. Don't get discouraged in the first one (which is still excellent, just annoyingly narcissistic) – read all the way to the end of book three (Faefever), then just TRY to put it down! *wink*
|Rating: Shadowfever
Related links:
http://www.karenmoning.com/ (The Fever series website)
http://www.karenchance.com/ (The Cassie Palmer series website)
http://www.jrward.com/bdb (Black Dagger Brotherhood series website)
http://jeanienefrost.com/ (Night Huntress series website)


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The elegant silhouette of this chandelier takes its brilliance from the skillful application of the crystal. The eternal circles are individually wrapped in brass and placed with astonishing attention to detail. The end result is an extraordinary source of light.
As Shown
Structure: Gold plated brass with high gloss finish
Details: Black glass
Cable: 3 m / 118,1 in
Structure: Available in gold, nickel or black nickel, copper plated brass with high gloss or matte finish
Details: Available in clear, black or amber glass
* Optional finishes may be subject to upcharge; available upon request.
**KOKET products are unique one of a kind handcrafted pieces, each item has its unique attributes and impossible to replicate identically due to the human craftsmanship. Slight variations in color, shape in form may occur, but hardly visible to the eye. Product images may also differ from actual piece due to media screens.
Lamps: 16 x (G9)
Never use cleaners with alcohols or solvents on metals. Only use cotton or extra soft cloths. We recommend that tarnished metals be professionally cleaned.
Clean polished metal or polished stainless with a damp cloth. Do not use commercial or heavy-duty polishes or waxes, as they may scratch or damage the finish. Polishes we do recommend are Brasso, Simichrome, or our favorite Flitz; these can be used without inflicting damage even for the unskilled user, unless the polished surface has a wax sealer coat. These polishes will remove the wax while polishing the metal, but the surface would then have to be re-waxed if it is on a metal that needs to be sealed.
W. 80 cm / 31,2 in
D. 120 cm / 46,8 in
H. 30 cm / 11,7 in
39 Kg / 86 Pounds


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The world of chiles is a vast one. Just the sheer number of different types is mind-boggling—I mean, off the top of your head, do you know the difference between a Chilaca and a Cubanelle? (Yeah, us neither.) But there are a bunch of ways you can buy them, too: powdered, dried, fresh, and flaked. We talked to senior food editor Dawn Perry to clarify how to harness the heat and the flavor of each type.
"Be careful when you're buying chili powder—it often has other stuff in it besides ground chiles. Spices and seasonings like cumin, oregano, and salt can sometimes find their way into the mix. Read the label and know what you're getting into before buy (we recommend finding one that has only one ingredient, like ancho chile). We like to use it in long-cooked stews—like chili—but just make sure you cook it with your mirepoix to avoid that raw spice taste."
"Use fresh chiles in quick-cooking dishes like stir-fries, salads, salsas, infused vinegars, pickles, and muddled cocktails. They bring a bright pop of heat versus a slow burn, like their dried counterparts."
"We like to use dried chiles to infuse things like cream, broth, stock, even pasta water. We also rehydrate them and blend them into super-spicy toasted chile salsas. They have a lower, slower burn than fresh chiles, but also have a sweeter, raisin-like quality. Make sure to toast them before using them, though—heat will bring out their flavor."
"Don't be fooled—chile flakes (a.k.a. crushed red pepper flakes) are very different from dried chiles. They're good to use when you need a measured amount of dried chile. If you add them to a dish at the beginning, it makes the whole thing spicy; if you add them at the end, they give nice pops of heat. The only problem with these jarred flecks is that you never know how old they are, and, therefore, how spicy they'll be. Older chile flakes are tamer, while young chile flakes can blow you away with spice. Be careful before you unload them into a dish."


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NBC's "Today" show has Jenna Bush, now NBC News has hired another former first daughter to report for the "Nightly News" and "Rock Center" broadcasts.
Chelsea Clinton will be a special correspondent for the shows specifically the "Making a Difference" series.
"Our 'Making a Difference' segments have become a signature of the broadcast," says anchor and managing editor Brian Williams. "They adhere to a simple goal of highlighting the good works being done across the country and around the world. Chelsea Clinton possesses an uncommon understanding of humanity. We are so excited she's joining us to tell the stories of ordinary people doing extraordinary things."
"I have long been impressed that Brian and his team at NBC place consistent importance on sharing stories of empowerment that in turn, help empower other people and families," said Clinton. "I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this tradition."
Clinton's TV news hire is making news this morning on Fox Business Network, Bloomberg, CNN, HLN and NBC. The New York Times reports Clinton will donate any money she earns from NBC to the Clinton Foundation and the George Washington University Hospital.
More in the press release after the jump…
Clinton takes on special assignment adding to the "Making a Difference" Franchise
November 14, 2011 — New York, N.Y. — Chelsea Clinton is teaming up with "Rock Center with Brian Williams" and "NBC Nightly News" as a Special Correspondent, the network announced today. Clinton's role with the shows and the network will be to highlight stories within the "Making a Difference" franchise.
"Making a Difference" segments have a history of profiling organizations and individuals who represent the best of what works in the United States and around the world, frequently emphasizing stories about everyday people doing extraordinary things. Clinton's dedication to public service, solution-based advocacy and focus on empowering people across the country and around the globe resonates with the purpose and content of "Making a Difference." Her position with NBC News will still allow Clinton to continue her work with the Clinton Foundation and her studies in parallel.
"Chelsea is a remarkable woman who will be a great addition to NBC News. Given her vast experiences, it's as though Chelsea has been preparing for this opportunity her entire life," said Steve Capus, President of NBC News. "We are proud she will be bringing her considerable, unique talents and dedication to NBC News."
"Our Making a Difference segments have become a signature of the broadcast. They adhere to a simple goal of highlighting the good works being done across the country and around the world," said Brian Williams, Anchor and Managing Editor of Nightly News and Rock Center. "Chelsea Clinton has led a remarkable life. She possesses an uncommon understanding of humanity — on city streets, across this country and around the globe. We are so excited she's joining us to tell the stories of ordinary people doing extraordinary things."
"People who imagine and implement solutions to challenges in their own lives, in their communities, in our country and in our world have always inspired me," said Clinton. "I hope telling stories through "Making a Difference" – as in my academic work and non-profit work – will help me to live my grandmother's adage of "Life is not about what happens to you, but about what you do with what happens to you," Clinton continued. "I have long been impressed that Brian and his team at NBC place consistent importance on sharing stories of empowerment that in turn, help empower other people and families. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this tradition."
NBC News has been a leading source of global news and information for more than 75 years. Every week, NBC News provides more than 30 hours of television news programming, including the top-rated NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams, Today and Meet the Press programs. Dateline NBC and Rock Center with Brian Williams are the network's primetime newsmagazines. NBC is the only broadcast news division with an affiliated cable channel, MSNBC, which provides 24-hour-a-day coverage of news events around the globe. Online, MSNBC.com is the number one video news site on the Internet. NBC News has also built an engaged following on Facebook, Twitter and other social networks.
In addition to its leading news programs, the network's portfolio includes cutting-edge platforms such as NBC News Mobile and NBC News Radio, and innovative ventures such as Peacock Productions, an award-winning in house production company; NBC Learn, the network's educational arm; NBC News Archives, a sales website leveraging over 70 years' worth of NBC News content; and TheGrio.com, a video-centric news community devoted to the African-American audience. NBCNewschannel is the network's liaison to over 200 affiliate stations across the country.
Chelsea Clinton has worked at McKinsey & Company and Avenue Capital and studied at Stanford, Oxford and Columbia Universities. She is currently pursuing a doctorate at Oxford, working at New York University and working with the Clinton Foundation and the Clinton Global Initiative. Her recent professional and academic work, including her recent academic publications, have focused on questions around how to improve access to relatively low-cost, high-quality health care services around the world, for both acute and chronic health care needs, as well as questions of empowerment and equal rights, including areas related to health, the arts and focused more holistically, on areas that particularly concern children. Chelsea currently serves on the boards of the Clinton Foundation, the School of American Ballet, Common Sense Media, the Weill Cornell Medical College and IAC. Chelsea and her husband Marc live in New York City.


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Get an Xbox gift card for games and entertainment on Xbox and Windows. Buy the latest games, map packs, movies, TV, music, apps and more.* And on Xbox One, buy and download full blockbuster games the day they're available everywhere. Great as a gift, allowance, or credit card alternative.
*Works with Windows 10 PCs, tablets and phones, Windows 8.1, Windows Phone 8, Xbox One and Xbox 360 (Xbox Live required). Not redeemable on earlier versions. Music: Only for purchase of tracks, albums and music pass on Windows 10 and Windows 8.1 PCs and tablets, or music pass on Xbox One (Xbox Live required).