Thursday, September 30, 2010
Beyond Emanuel: The White House's Next Chapter
When President Obama picked Rahm Emanuel as his chief of staff, it signaled his desire for a team with the skills to push his agenda through Congress. Now, in choosing Emanuel's replacement, Obama has to decide who will be best for the next stage, when Democratic majorities may be smaller, or nonexistent.
Clinging to Arrogance
Victor Davis Hanson, RealClearPoliticsThe bookish, twice-unsuccessful Democratic presidential candidate Adlai Stevenson once sighed that if most thinking people supported him, it still wouldn't be enough in America because "I need a majority."For some reason, Democrats have chosen to follow the disastrous model of Stevenson and not that of feisty man-of-the-people Missourian Harry Truman -- though the former nearly wrecked the party and the latter got elected. Receive news alertsFormer President Jimmy Carter likewise seems to feel that he's still too smart for us. Carter, who turns 86 on Friday, is hitting the...
California Rafting Flow Update
And then there were two. With all the spring runs but a distant memory, and the Tuolumne and Cherry Creek just put out to pasture for the year, what’s a California rafting enthusiast to do?� Weep gently and go to a cage fight for an adrenaline rush?� Of course not.� Rely–as we do–on those old [...]
More Adventures in Police Professionalism (Theagitator.com)
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World Class Rafting: Futaleufu 2011!
California river rafting may be winding down for the year but we’re just getting started on our winter rafting plans.� And they ain’t too shabby.� Join us for our annual expedition to Patagonia Chile and experience one of the world’s best river trips: the beyond-beautiful Futaleufu River. Class IV and V rapids, massive hydraulics, and [...]
Where to bike-hike NOW in Kananaskis Country: Piper Pass via Little Elbow
Our tireless, adventurous friend, Ian, recently accompanied us on a 12-hour-marathon, bike-hike trip to Piper Pass via the Little Elbow and West Fork Little Elbow river valleys. Approaching the pass, I asked him, “How many people do you think get here each summer?” He paused, glanced at the feint route underfoot, gazed at the gorgeous [...]
Rallying Progressives is the Right Strategy
E.J. Dionne, The New RepublicWASHINGTON -- A couple of hours before President Obama offered a boffo revival of his 2008 campaign persona during a boisterous rally at the University of Wisconsin, Sen. Bernie Sanders was analyzing why the president was in a political pickle in the first place.Sanders, the independent from Vermont who caucuses with the Democrats, speaks warmly of Obama. But unlike the man in the White House, Sanders actually is a socialist and believes devoutly in grass-roots, class-based politics. Receive news alertsAnd it is his faith in the power of a progressive movement organized around a clear set of...
Calif. Calls Off Execution After Court Setbacks
The attorney general's office said in a court filing Wednesday that it can no longer try to proceed with the lethal injection of Albert Greenwood Brown at 9 p.m. Thursday. It would have been California's first since 2006.
National Review: The GOP Can Win The Northeast
The Northeast, a longtime Democratic stronghold, might be the key to a Republican takeover of Congress in the midterm elections. Andrew Stiles of the National Review argues that Republicans can take back the region by running strong enthusiastic candidates.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Congress sends intelligence bill to Obama (The Arizona Republic)
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Westbeach 2011 Line Preview
Westbeach just publicly announced a preview movie of their 2011 line (which looks awesome). Check out this movie by Vancouver’s Graham Winterbottom and Caleb Beyers. View the movie at www.westbeach.com/2011
Dawn is Rising
by Ali McNabb The first light of the rising sun creeps over the Eastern mountain range. A silhouette of a moose swimming across the lake can be seen. The water is so calm that it barely leaves a ripple. A mating pair of Sandhill Cranes flies low on the horizon. Dawn is stirring. The [...]
Court: Stem Cell Funds Can Continue For Now
The ruling makes permanent, pending an appeal, the overturning of an injunction imposed last month by a lower court judge. The judge ordered a halt to embryonic stem cell research while he considered a lawsuit filed by two scientists. The Obama administration said even a temporary halt to the research could set back promising science.
More Americans Giving Up On The American Dream
An ABC/Yahoo News poll reveals that almost half of Americans no longer believe one can get ahead in the United States through hard. Los Angeles Times Columnist Gregory Rodriguez worries that giving up on that dream "challenges the very idea of ourselves as a nation."
Video: Robe Canyon, Stillaguamish (and Robe Race is Sunday!)
In deference to the Robe Canyon Race happening tomorrow (Sunday April 25, 2010), here’s a cool video I found on Professor Paddle showing kayakers running the drops – there are�some really�nice boofs in there. If anyone’s planning on heading out there to watch�it should be fun, the race will probably start around 10:30-ish 1 pm-ish [...]
New Analog Hi Res shorts
Analog Hi Res Board Shorts A new design for the 2010 Hi-Res boardshort, the Anahulu Bridge (Rainbow Bridge) is symbolic in Haleiwa and one of the most famous sites on the North Shore of Oahu (other than the waves of course). The Hi Res Boardshorts feature Analog’s typical close attention to detail and flair for [...]
Bob Woodward's Inside Account Of 'Obama's Wars'
A year ago, President Obama was in the thick of a review of policy on Afghanistan. In the end, he ordered 30,000 additional troops to Afghanistan, and he set July 2011 as the point at which the U.S. presence would start to decline. NPR's Robert Siegel talks to Bob Woodward about how the president arrived at that policy -- the subject of Woodward's latest book, Obama's Wars.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Cyberworm's Origins Unclear, But Potential Is Not
It is not yet clear whether the "Stuxnet" computer worm has caused any damage to the industrial control systems it has penetrated, but security experts say it still qualifies as a potential cyber-superweapon. The sophisticated worm has infected industrial plants in a host of countries.
NATO official cautious about Afghan reconciliation (The Arizona Republic)
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Foreign Policy: Obama Versus The Afghanistan Team
A new book by Bob Woodward illuminates the relationship between President Obama and his generals, Robert Gates, Mike Mullen, and David Petraus. It's a relationship, says Robert Haddick of Foreign Policy, that will come to a showdown over the handling of Afghanistan and of Yemen.
Scrambling Mt. Temple
This past week in the Canadian Rockies, enough snow has fallen at high elevations and the daytime temperatures have remained cool enough that scrambling season has clearly ended. Sure, any summit is accessible any time of year, if you’re a black-belt mountaineer. But a patina of snow and/or ice makes a long, steep, rough scramble [...]
Five Womens 2011 Snowboards you shouldn?t miss
2011 looks like it’s going to be a really great year for womens snowboards. Check out the Ride Promise, pictured above, for starters – these roll out of the stores for �289.95 which is pretty darn good for a board that rides so well. Here’s our Top Five Womens Snowboards for 2011 (in no particular [...]
Back From Whitewater Kayaking the Selway River, ID
(Not my video, not my trip – but since I’m short on photos I had to put something on here, and not only is this Ladle Rapid on the Selway, it’s also an amazing testimonial to hanging in there on the roll – gotta love it. ) Anyway, I’m using the fact that I did [...]
Obama's Wars: Revolt of the Generals
Jed Babbin, The American SpectatorHow has President Obama mismanaged the Afghanistan war? Bob Woodward's new book counts the ways. There's a president retreating after a "generals' revolt," domestic politics overriding any concern with the war's outcome and -- according to the leaked portions of the book due out today -- much more. But the White House is praising Obama's Wars, not condemning it.If you are confused, dear reader, take comfort in the fact that you are no more so than our president.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Torah Bright ? Practising Double Corks before Olympics
Check this movie out on Addicted to Ride – Torah Bright practising her double corks prior to hel Olympic halfpipe runs. It looks like a really nice pipe & it gives an insight into how much she’s worked on her riding. Go right here
Dean Potter: ICARUS 2010 The Man Who Can Fly
Dean Is Featured In The September 2010 Issue of Playboy Magazine (article people, article) We have an autographed Dean Potter poster for the first 25 people who post “Dean Potter Talks To The Bunny” on the prAna Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/prAna!
Report Finds Significant Exam Cheating By FBI Agents
A Justice Department review found that a number of agents, including several supervisors, cheated on an important test covering the bureau's policies for conducting surveillance on Americans by taking the open-book test together or having access to an answer sheet.
Recalling the Grand Canyon
Grand Junction CO, Colorado, On the bucket list of life’s goals, a river trip in a wooden boat through the Grand Canyon has to be a must. BIG waves, small boats. Dories are the smallest, most difficult and most fragile boats running the Canyon today. It is as close as you can get to Major [...]
Boehner and Tiger: Ho Ho Ho (Hullabaloo)
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Never Neverland Trailer (video)
prAna is proud to support the Never Neverland film as a tool to raise awareness to the plight of hundreds of thousands of orphans in Swaziland… Swazi adults are disappearing every day, leaving a nation the size of New Jersey … Continue reading →
Former Marine Sees 'Long Way To Go' For Equality
Kendall Bailey joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 2001. Five years later, he was a sergeant working in a recruiting office. Bailey was considering making the military his life's career. But those plans changed when a colleague found out he was gay.
NATO Forces Carry Out Airstrikes In Pakistan
NATO helicopters based in Afghanistan carried out at least two airstrikes in Pakistan that killed more than 30 militants after the insurgents attacked a small Afghan security outpost near the border, a spokesman said Monday.
Where to backpack NOW in Banff National Park: North Molar Pass, Fish Lakes, Pipestone Pass
We recently hiked up Mosquito Creek, over North Molar Pass, down to Fish Lakes, then up to Pipestone Pass (Trip 80, page 278, in Don’t Waste Your Time in the Canadian Rockies). It’s a superb backpack trip, and now’s prime time to do it. Something we didn’t mention in the book is an alternate return [...]
Sunday, September 26, 2010
The New Republic: The GOP's Policy Tantrum
Was it a coincidence that Republicans unveiled their "Pledge to America" on the same day that the new consumer protections went into effect? Jonathan Cohn of The New Republic doesn't think so. He argues that while the Democrats are willing to make compromises to pass legislation, Republicans offer only vague promises.
Health Care Overhaul Becomes Campaign Weapon
Since it was signed by President Obama and became law six months ago, a funny thing has happened to the health care overhaul: It's lost support among the public. Many polls now show more people oppose it than are in favor -- and that's having an impact on political races.
Five Womens 2011 Snowboards you shouldn?t miss
2011 looks like it’s going to be a really great year for womens snowboards. Check out the Ride Promise, pictured above, for starters – these roll out of the stores for �289.95 which is pretty darn good for a board that rides so well. Here’s our Top Five Womens Snowboards for 2011 (in no particular [...]
Guide Bio: Tom Canada!
Even the barest mention of Tom makes me and Amy d burst into the “Blame Canada” song, which I don’t think he likes very much, but it’s the truth, so what can you do.� Stop me and Amy d from singing?� Shah, right!� But of course there’s more to Tom than our annoyingness.� Professional Canadian [...]
Guide Bio: Tom Canada!
Even the barest mention of Tom makes me and Amy d burst into the “Blame Canada” song, which I don’t think he likes very much, but it’s the truth, so what can you do.� Stop me and Amy d from singing?� Shah, right!� But of course there’s more to Tom than our annoyingness.� Professional Canadian [...]
2011 K2 Snowboards now available
I’m writing this post in July in the middle of some sweltering heat and it feels plain wrong! But, having said that, when your life revolves around snowboards and snowboarding it’s good to see the newest of the new snowboarding gear regardless. We just saw this week that
From White Paper To Wanted Sign
Stephen Mancusi worked for the New York Police Department for 27 years as a forensic artist. He specializes in composite sketching -- the process of interviewing victims and witnesses to create a drawing of a perpetrator that is released to help police find suspects.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Ahmadinejad: Iran May End Enrichment
Iran would consider ending uranium enrichment, the most crucial part of its controversial nuclear activities, if world powers send Tehran nuclear fuel for a medical research reactor, President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad told reporters Friday.
Westbeach 2011 Line Preview
Westbeach just publicly announced a preview movie of their 2011 line (which looks awesome). Check out this movie by Vancouver’s Graham Winterbottom and Caleb Beyers. View the movie at www.westbeach.com/2011
Where the Wild Bunch Roam
Utah is the home of several famous places once homesteaded by many robbers, rustlers, outlaws and bandits. Some names more common than others, all modern day ‘Robin Hoods’ competing with the rich to help give back to the poor. Starting out with the most famous of them all was Robert LeRoy Packer, or better known [...]
Westbeach 2011 Line Preview
Westbeach just publicly announced a preview movie of their 2011 line (which looks awesome). Check out this movie by Vancouver’s Graham Winterbottom and Caleb Beyers. View the movie at www.westbeach.com/2011
Revealing, Reveling In Einstein's Relativity
Einstein's theory of relativity posits that time -- what we perceive to be regular, consistent ticks on our watches -- isn't actually constant. Thought experiments from the early 1900s challenged our understanding of time, and now scientists have actual data to back Einstein up.
Video: Rob, Sam and Darren Running the Wall on Tumwater Canyon
Early in July I got some footage of Rob McKibbin, Sam Grafton and Darren Albright running the Wall on Tumwater Canyon at 4900 cfs.� Darren is first, then Sam (notice the feisty hole ride he takes nearly halfway through) and then Rob, of course in his playboat. The funny part about this day is that [...]
Banff Park Radio
Kathy and I were recently interviewed by Allan Buckingham, for his “Alpine Authors” program on Banff Park Radio. You can listen to the podcast on the Authors page of our website: http://www.hikingcamping.com/authors.php
The Pain Begins: Health Law Must Be Repealed
Michael Tanner, NY PostToday, six months since Congress passed the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, President Obama will be celebrating the signature achievement of his administration.It's apt to be a lonely celebration: Few Democratic candidates are willing to talk about the health-care bill — except the ones running ads to remind the electorate that they voted against it.
Delay On Tax Cut Vote Creates Hiring Uncertainty
Congress has pushed back the deadline for deciding what to about the Bush-era tax cuts due to expire at the end of the year. The decision to not do anything until after the midterm elections is making it hard for some small-business owners to decide whether to hire new workers or invest.
Friday, September 24, 2010
GOP's Phony Pledge on Health Care
Jonathan Cohn, The New RepublicEverybody knew that the Pledge for America would include a vow to "repeal and replace" the Affordable Care Act. But in the last day or so, an intriguing rumor began to circulate. Supposedly the Republicans would guarantee that people with pre-existing medical conditions could buy good health insurance on their own.You can imagine why Republicans would want to do this. Americans may have mixed feelings about both health care and health care reform. But, with very few exceptions, they think it's wrong to deny decent insurance to somebody just because that person struggles with...
Concussion Worries Renew Focus On Football Safety
As members of Congress look into safeguarding young athletes, researchers report that a college lineman who committed suicide had a degenerative brain disease normally linked to much older players. It's prompting a new round of questions about safety in the dangerous game that Americans love.
Obama Urges Mideast Peace Talks To 'Press On'
In a speech at the United Nations Thursday, President Obama again urged Israel to extend its partial moratorium on settlement building in the West Bank. It is due to expire Sunday. The Palestinians say they will suspend peace talks, if construction in the settlements resumes.
Israeli Leaders Condemn Clinton Immigrant Comments
The former president, generally a well-loved figure in Israel, called Russian immigrants in Israel an obstacle to peace. He also said the most recent arrivals in Israel have the hardest time agreeing to share the land with the Palestinians.
Fed Up, A Mexican Town Resorts To Mob Justice
Murders and kidnappings have plagued Mexico amid its drug war. A mob in one Mexican town this week rose up, pursued a couple of presumed kidnappers and killed them. The day after the fury, another crowd stormed city hall and forced the mayor to fire the entire police force.
The Horns are Back in Town
By Natali Zollinger The most anticipated animal to see on the Green and Yampa Rivers through Dinosaur National Monument is the Desert Bighorn Sheep. Believed to have gone extinct in the region, for unknown reasons we find them flourishing back to reclaim their once dominated territory. Bighorn Sheep are a vital resource because they provided [...]
Momentum Builds Behind Chinese Workers' Protests
Over the summer, a rash of suicides and strikes hit factories in southern China as workers protested against labor conditions. Rather than cracking down, factory bosses have responded by improving salaries and working conditions. But more strikes are expected.
Akamina Ridge, Akamina-Kishinena Provincial Park
Trip 1, on page 42 of Don’t Waste Your Time in the Canadian Rockies, the Opinionated Hiking Guide, is Akamina Ridge / Wall and Forum Lakes. It’s a supreme ridgewalk in little-known Akamina-Kishinena Provincial Park. Views from the alpine ridgecrest extend across the adjacent national parks: Waterton Lakes (Alberta, Canada), and Glacier (Montana, USA). We [...]
Thursday, September 23, 2010
The New Republic: Why The Left Will Miss Summers
Some progressives rejoiced at the news that White House adviser Larry Summers is stepping down, but Jonathan Cohn of The New Republic argues that they should rethink their position. Summers has moved increasingly to the left on many economic issues, and it is possible that his replacement could be even farther to the right than he is.
Equality Still Elusive For World's Women
Women right's advocates have made some strides in recent decades. But most of the world's poorest are female, fewer girls than boys attend school and women are still vastly underrepresented in leadership positions. Former Ireland President Mary Robinson, the World Bank's Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and columnist Nicholas Kristof explain the challenges of improving women's lives worldwide.
Death Sentence For Virginia Woman Stirs Objections
Teresa Lewis is scheduled to be executed Thursday evening for plotting the 2002 murders of her husband and stepson. The 41-year-old woman's supporters argue that her mental capacity should exempt her from the death penalty. But the U.S. Supreme Court denied her petition.
For Economic Team, a Chance to Retool
Shear & Calmes, New York TimesPresident Obama and his top aides have already begun to discuss how a successor for Lawrence H. Summers, the chief economic gatekeeper inside the White House, can help reshape the administration’s economic team without signaling major changes in policy, either to markets or voters.Treasury Secretary Timothy F. Geithner arriving Wednesday to appear before the House Financial Services Committee.The latest on President Obama, his administration and other news from Washington and around the nation. Join the discussion.Senior aides said Wednesday that no decision was imminent, and that...
Triple Crown Bouldering Series 2010: Hound Ears
It’s that time of the year again! Will you be in Boone, North Carolina on October 2nd for the kickoff? Will Alex Johnson repeat or will Alex Puccio refuse to settle for third this year? Can’t wait to find out… … Continue reading →
Home-Style Hangzhou Cuisine: Subtle, Not Spicy
It's maybe not as well-known as Sichuan or Cantonese fare, but Zhejiang province (Hangzhou is its capital) still boasts one of China's eight culinary traditions. True to the region's emphasis on fresh ingredients and mellow flavors, these light dishes also are easy to try at home.
Dissent Grows Over U.S. Presence In Afghanistan
The U.S. surge strategy in Afghanistan is under new scrutiny as 2010 recently became the deadliest year for U.S. and coalition troops there. Intended as a bold new push, Obama's plan has faced major setbacks, fueling debate over whether the effort is worth it.
Advocates Charge Foreclosure Process Is Still Broken
The nation's fourth largest home lender, GMAC Mortgage, stopped thousands of foreclosures across 23 states this week. GMAC Mortgage is owned by Ally Financial. Critics say the company has been foreclosing on houses without following proper procedures.
Does The Universe Have a 'Dark Flow?'
Using measurements of the cosmic microwave background, researchers say, there?s evidence that galaxy clusters are being pulled along by a force outside the visible universe. Theoretical physicist Michael Turner explains this ?dark flow? and other recent cosmology news.
A Prime Directive For Humanity
Cross Posted From OdeMagazine.com Science fiction fans know that in the Star Trek universe, the Federation has evolved a guideline that is raised far above all other guidelines. It’s a guideline that is used to keep allow all the various … Continue reading →
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
The Junkman And The Madonna
Now that it's nearly fall and there is a hint again of things passing, I think about a wistful boy who once looked out a window and froze a junkman in time.
Video: Whitewater Kayakers Running the Plunge on Icicle Creek
I was over in Leavenworth one evening last week taking a look at the Plunge drop on Icicle Creek with Charles from AquaSports and we happened to run into this guy Nels, who told us he thought Darren Albright was going to be running it soon.� Sure enough, a few minutes later Darren came down [...]
Foreign Policy: Closing Guantanamo Proves Difficult
Closing the Guantanamo Bay detention facility was a major promise of President Obama's campaign, but so far it is proving to be more difficult than anticipated. Barbara Slavin of Foreign Policy argues that though the administration has stumbled, closing the prison should remain a priority.
Banff Park Radio
Kathy and I were recently interviewed by Allan Buckingham, for his “Alpine Authors” program on Banff Park Radio. You can listen to the podcast on the Authors page of our website: http://www.hikingcamping.com/authors.php
Chris Sharma Headed To The Nor?easter
Professional climbing returns to New England for the first time since 2007! The UBC at The Nor?easter in Lincoln, N.H. will feature two rounds of competition open to anyone willing to test themselves against the best in the world and … Continue reading →
Ahmadinejad Undeterred As Sanctions Take Bite
The latest round of economic sanctions has prompted Western banks and other corporations to back out of business deals with Tehran. But there's no sign the sanctions are moving the Iranian government any closer to canceling plans for nuclear weapons or considering rapprochement with the United States.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
GOP will set forth its agenda this week (Star Tribune)
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Bristol Palin Makes Her 'Dancing' Debut With 'Mama Told Me Not To Come'
On last night's 'Dancing With The Stars,' viewers got their first looks at the new cast, including famous political daughter Bristol Palin.
Gibbs Briefs (TIME)
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Why Are These Crows So Good With Tools?
New Caledonian crows are among only a handful of species that have been shown to use tools. They use twigs to fish out beetle larvae from dead trees. Reporting in Science, Christian Rutz and colleagues explore why the birds evolved this rare trait.
Is Climate Enlightenment Dead?
George Monbiot, The GuardianTurn autoplay offTurn autoplay onPlease activate cookies in order to turn autoplay offThe collapse of the talks at Copenhagen took away all momentum for change and the lobbyists are back in control. So what next?The closer it comes, the worse it looks. The best outcome anyone now expects from December's climate summit in Mexico is that some delegates might stay awake during the meetings. When talks fail once, as they did in Copenhagen, governments lose interest. They don't want to be associated with failure, they don't want to pour time and energy into a broken process. Nine...
The Politics of Resentment
Thomas Sowell, RealClearPoliticsFew things have captured in microcosm what has gone so painfully wrong, where racial issues are concerned, like the recent election for mayor of Washington, D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty, under whom the murder rate has gone down and the school children's test scores have gone up, was resoundingly defeated for re-election. Receive news alertsNor was Mayor Fenty simply a passive beneficiary of the rising test scores and falling murder rates. He appointed Michelle Rhee as head of the school system and backed her as she fought the teachers' union and fired large numbers of ineffective...
Chicago Man Arrested In Alleged Bomb Plot
The FBI's Chicago office says Sami Samir Hassoun is charged with one count each of attempted use of a weapon of mass destruction and attempted use of an explosive device. Hassoun was arrested after midnight Saturday.
The Nation: The 50 Most Influential Progressives
Progressive U.S. history is often distorted in the classroom and in the media. That's why Peter Dreier of The Nation has compiled a slideshow of the 50 most important progressive thinkers and actors of the 20th century.�
Monday, September 20, 2010
Igor Pounds Bermuda, Heads Into Open Atlantic
The hurricane lashed at the Atlantic island with high winds and furious waves. Power failed in many areas, plunging people hunkered down at home into darkness.
Video: Rob, Sam and Darren Running the Wall on Tumwater Canyon
Early in July I got some footage of Rob McKibbin, Sam Grafton and Darren Albright running the Wall on Tumwater Canyon at 4900 cfs.� Darren is first, then Sam (notice the feisty hole ride he takes nearly halfway through) and then Rob, of course in his playboat. The funny part about this day is that [...]
Seriously: Last chance for Tuolumne and Cherry Creek
Time to line up and start singing: “Goodnight, farewell, aufiederzein, goodbye!!!� Adieu! Adieu….”� Ok, ok, you get the picture.� This is the last weekend for rafting trips on the Tuolumne and Cherry Creek.� So for all you procrastinators out there, this is your final warning!� The ship is about to set sail on the Tuolumne [...]
Russell Bishop: Are You Avoiding Your Life Life? (Huffingtonpost.com)
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Values Voters Sip From Tea Party Cup
A few years ago, Values Voters were a driving conservative force in elections across the country, focusing on social issues like abortion and gay marriage. Now the spotlight has shifted to their brethren, the Tea Party, which is primarily concerned with fiscal issues. Is there really much difference between the two parties, or are their messages starting to overlap?
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Recalling the Grand Canyon
Grand Junction CO, Colorado, On the bucket list of life’s goals, a river trip in a wooden boat through the Grand Canyon has to be a must. BIG waves, small boats. Dories are the smallest, most difficult and most fragile boats running the Canyon today. It is as close as you can get to Major [...]
Why Are These Crows So Good With Tools?
New Caledonian crows are among only a handful of species that have been shown to use tools. They use twigs to fish out beetle larvae from dead trees. Reporting in Science, Christian Rutz and colleagues explore why the birds evolved this rare trait.
Video: Dan Patrinellis? Whitewater Kayaking Pin on Icicle Creek
Dan Patrinellis was wearing a helmet camera when he got pinned on a low-water run of Icicle Creek about a week ago.� Here’s his video – it took a while for him to get the throw bag, and he said the hairy moment came when he pulled his spray skirt and the boat went deeper [...]
Central Banks Have Chosen a Perilous Course
Randall Forsyth, Barron'sDow Jones Reprints: This copy is for your personal, non-commerical use only. To order presentation-ready copies for distribution to your colleagues, clients or customers, use the Order Reprints tool on any article or visit www.djreprints.comBy RANDALL W. FORSYTH | MORE ARTICLES BY AUTHOR THERE'S A NEW RACE TO THE BOTTOM. First, interest rates were slashed by central banks in reaction to the credit crisis of 2008. Then, they ballooned their balance sheets with massive bond purchases in what euphemistically was called "quantitative...
Stop worrying and love the bong? (Unqualified Offerings)
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Foreign Policy: France's Real Threat From Within
French Lawmakers voted Tuesday to ban the wearing of burqas in public. David Rothkopf of Foreign Policy argues that this is misguided. Real fear in France should be fear of intolerance.
BP Close To Final Seal Of Ruptured Oil Well. Yawn.
For the first 100 days of the disaster, almost a third of TV news coverage was devoted to the oil spill. Last week, stories from the Gulf made up only about 2 percent of the news. Even the permanent sealing of the well has been treated as an afterthought by the news media.
Two weeks left for Tuolumne and Cherry Creek rafting
This is it:� only two more weeks for Tuolumne and Cherry Creek rafting trips!� Just after Labor Day Whabam! the party is OVER and we won’t have enough water for rafting–not until 2011!� If’n you hankering for some class IV wilderness or some class V insanity, it’s time to make your move.� Call us to [...]
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Banff Park Radio
Kathy and I were recently interviewed by Allan Buckingham, for his “Alpine Authors” program on Banff Park Radio. You can listen to the podcast on the Authors page of our website: http://www.hikingcamping.com/authors.php
What is 'Global Climate Disruption'?
James Delingpole, Daily TelegraphSign in or registerFriday 17 September 2010 | Blog Feed | All feedsBy James Delingpole Politics Last updated: September 17th, 2010Comment on this Comment on this article Holdren: yep, a total AAASPresident Obama's Science Czar John Holdren is worried about global warming. Having noticed that there hasn't actually been any global warming since 1998, he feels it ought to be called "global climate disruption" instead. That way whether it gets warmer or colder, wetter or drier, less climatically eventful or more climatically eventful, the...
Landslide Midterm is Hardly Certain
Charles Blow, New York TimesLet me be clear: the idea of an inevitable Republican landslide in November is not a foregone conclusion. It’s a self-perpetuating bit of wishful thinking that’s gaining currency through the force of being recycled ad nauseam by overzealous pundits. Charles M. Blow
It’s no wonder then that Democrats with defeatist tendencies have bought into it. They are morose and slumped, prematurely assuming the crestfallen posture of a party rejected, rending their garments like a PETA spokeswoman in a meat dress.
Sure, some seats will change...
It’s no wonder then that Democrats with defeatist tendencies have bought into it. They are morose and slumped, prematurely assuming the crestfallen posture of a party rejected, rending their garments like a PETA spokeswoman in a meat dress.
Sure, some seats will change...
Sarah Palin Tells Karl Rove Where To Go...
Sarah Palin appeared to take a playful shot at Karl Rove in her Iowa speech, telling him where to go. Palin and Rove have sparred over the Tea Party movement with Palin backing a candidate in Delaware Rove has publicly raised doubts about.
Violence Mars Parliamentary Voting In Afghanistan
Taliban rocket strikes and bombings kept some Afghans away from the polls Saturday but others braved threats to cast ballots in parliamentary elections being closely watched as a measure of the government's ability to fight against insurgents as well as entrenched corruption.
Banff Park Radio
Kathy and I were recently interviewed by Allan Buckingham, for his “Alpine Authors” program on Banff Park Radio. You can listen to the podcast on the Authors page of our website: http://www.hikingcamping.com/authors.php
Despite Deeper Understanding Of Mental Illness, Stigma Lingers
Researchers found that more people are aware that mental illness is rooted in brain biology. Still the knowledge hasn't decreased the stigma of the disease.
Is Ohio Slipping From the Dems' Grasp?
Chris Cillizza, Washington Post1. New numbers out of Ohio from Quinnipiac University show Republicans running away with the gubernatorial and Senate races even as Democrats insist that they are still in the game in this most critical of electoral battlegrounds.The Q poll showed former Rep. John Kasich (R) leading Gov. Ted Strickland (D) by 17 points and former Rep. Rob Portman (R) ahead of Lt. Gov. Lee Fisher (D) by 20.
Not to be Confused with Iowa
One of the most common things I hear guests say on our river trips is, “I never thought Idaho would look like this.” I don’t know if its because ’Idaho’ sounds a little like ‘Iowa,’ but they seem to think Idaho will have soft, rolling hills and wide open plains. Well, it does have those [...]
Friday, September 17, 2010
The New Republic: What Would Replace Health Care?
Republicans have promised to repeal the Health Care Overhaul passed this March by the Obama administration, and replace it with a new plan. Jonathan Cohn of The New Republic argues Republican's haven?t convinced the public that we would be better off without the new reforms.
Two weeks left for Tuolumne and Cherry Creek rafting
This is it:� only two more weeks for Tuolumne and Cherry Creek rafting trips!� Just after Labor Day Whabam! the party is OVER and we won’t have enough water for rafting–not until 2011!� If’n you hankering for some class IV wilderness or some class V insanity, it’s time to make your move.� Call us to [...]
Islamophobia is the 'New McCarthyism?' Please.
Russ Smith, Splice TodayThere's always going to be bigoted idiots, so let's stop with the senseless comparisons.How many roads must a man walk down before he realizes the ghost of Joseph McCarthy is not lurking around every corner? It’s a pertinent question today, in the midst of a tumultuous Congressional midterm election campaign, as aghast and pissed off liberals are pointing fingers aimlessly looking for someone to blame. You’d think that pundits—elite or scruffy, left- or right-wing—might finally understand that constantly evoking Hitler, Stalin, Mao and...
Assessing The BP Spill's Impact
BP?s ruptured Macondo well spewed millions of gallons of oil into the Gulf of Mexico after the Deepwater Horizon explosion in April, 2010. Months after the explosion, scientists are developing a clearer picture of the impact on the Gulf and its ecosystem. In a special broadcast, Talk of the Nation and National Geographic explain what we know about the state of the Gulf today.
Carter: Kennedy Delayed Health Care Years Ago
The former president says Americans could have had comprehensive health care coverage decades ago if Sen. Edward M. Kennedy hadn't blocked a plan Carter had proposed. Carter revisited the old spat in an interview with CBS' 60 Minutes to be aired Sunday.
Warren?s Officially In (Balloon-juice.com)
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Delaware: Can Coons Hold Off the O'Donnell Juggernaut? (TIME)
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Thursday, September 16, 2010
Funny Whitewater Kayaking Quotes on the River Chica Blog
OK, they’re not really whitewater kayaking quotes, but they should be.� I checked out Ky Delaney’s blog and she has a great article with quotes from 1800′s miners that apply really well to kayaking.� Check out the whole River Chica blog post for 1800′s miner quotes on ‘paddling the gnar’, ‘being a dirtbag’, and ‘on [...]
Papal Spending Challenge (Pickled Politics)
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How Bob Dylan Checked Out of the Culture War
Brendan Bernhard, PJMAngelo M. Codevilla’s essay, “America’s Ruling Class — and the Perils of Revolution,” published this summer in the American Spectator, and released this week in book form, has already accomplished what few essays do: it has touched a nerve. In his essay, Codevilla contrasts the “Ruling Class,” including both Republicans and Democrats but tending leftward in word and deed, with the the “country class,” consisting of heterogonous individualists who’d rather be judged on their merits than...
Giving A Kidney, Gaining A Lifelong Friend
Jeff Moyer reflects on the "unsurpassed gratification" he felt after successfully donating his kidney to Julie Stinson, the daughter of a friend. Kidney donation surgery is harder on donors than on recipients, Moyer says.� But while his discomfort will soon end, Stinson will take anti-rejection drugs for years to come.
Proof! Rafting is good for your brain!
I love it when academia backs up the gospel we preach!� A recent NY Times article tells the tale of a group of bespecled professors setting aside their blackberries, cell phones, and iPads, and setting off for a multi-day raft trip on the San Juan river.� Experts in brain function and memory,�they set out to [...]
Palestinian Leader Sees No Alternative To Peace Talks
After two days of inconclusive negotiations with Israel, it wasn't clear whether Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas was suggesting that the Palestinians would remain committed to the talks if Israel doesn't extend a curb on settlement construction in the West Bank.
Seriously: Last chance for Tuolumne and Cherry Creek
Time to line up and start singing: “Goodnight, farewell, aufiederzein, goodbye!!!� Adieu! Adieu….”� Ok, ok, you get the picture.� This is the last weekend for rafting trips on the Tuolumne and Cherry Creek.� So for all you procrastinators out there, this is your final warning!� The ship is about to set sail on the Tuolumne [...]
China to build 1km long indoor snow slope!
China will open the world?s longest indoor ski slope to date, when the first 1km (3,300ft) long indoor slope will open in the city of Guangzhou near Hong Kong. Guangzhou will feature a slope of 1000m in length and has 100 million people living within a radius of 100km. The new indoor snow slope will [...]
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Drop Kick The Field Goals
Football needs to make some adjustments before the game turns into kickball. Coaches should get some guts and stop punting, commentator Frank Deford says.
Guide Bio: Tom Canada!
Even the barest mention of Tom makes me and Amy d burst into the “Blame Canada” song, which I don’t think he likes very much, but it’s the truth, so what can you do.� Stop me and Amy d from singing?� Shah, right!� But of course there’s more to Tom than our annoyingness.� Professional Canadian [...]
The New Republic: Clinton's Faulty 'American Moment'
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton announced at the Council on Foreign Relations that America is in a new era of leadership, but commentator Andrew J. Bacevich of The New Republic says Clinton has it all wrong. To lead in this era, the US needs diplomats who understand when to refrain from taking charge.
DC voters oust mayor during Dem primary (The Arizona Republic)
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Tea Party GOP Senate Candidate Wins Big In Del.
The tea party movement is celebrating a major victory in Delaware. Conservative Christine O'Donnell has pulled off a stunning upset over nine-term Rep. Mike Castle in the Republican Senate primary. She'll face Democrat Chris Coons in November.
O'Donnell Wins, Bad Blood Simmers in Delaware
McPike & Conroy, RCPBy Erin McPike and Scott Conroy - September 15, 2010More Election NewsDOVER and WILMINGTON, Del. -- Conservative activist Christine O'Donnell scored an upset victory in Delaware's Republican Senate primary on Tuesday, defeating longtime congressman Mike Castle 53 percent to 47 percent.O'Donnell's surprising win marked yet another triumph for the Tea Party movement and may have ended the Republican Party's hopes of regaining control of the Senate in November. Polls have shown O'Donnell trailing far behind Democratic nominee Chris Coons, the New Castle...
U.S. Should Vote for More Harry Reids
Brent Budowsky, The HillIn one of the greatest speeches ever given by an American president, Theodore Roosevelt said that it is not the critic who counts, not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles or where the doer of deeds could have done better.Roosevelt continued: The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by the dust and sweat and blood; who errs and comes short again and again; who at his best knows high achievement and at his worst fails after daring greatly.
"Tea Party" wins Delaware Republican Senate primary (Reuters)
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Tuesday, September 14, 2010
20 Ways To Greet A Customer
So the retail staff �was tired of greeting customers in the same old ways: “Are you finding everything ok”? “Can I help you with something”? “If there is anything you need, feel free to ask”? So �they came up with some more interesting ways to greet folks in the store… enjoy! How?s Life? What?s New [...]
Foreign Policy: Asteroid Shield Must Be Global Affair
A little-known-about deadline is fast approaching: by October 15th of this year, Congress must choose an agency to protect the planet from potentially disastrous asteroid strikes. But commentator Joshua Keating of Foreign Policy argues that this job should not be the responsibility of the US alone.
Delaware Tea Party: What To Look For On Primary Night
Primary contests are occurring in seven states and the District of Columbia. And you know it's an unusual year when Delaware becomes the center of the political universe, at least for a night.
Congress Is Back, But Why?
ANALYSIS: It's a bipartisan question. Democrats are struggling to decide whether to the support the president's latest stimulus plan. Republicans have a debate brewing in their ranks too.
South Fork Float Trips
We spend a lot of time extolling the virtues of heart-pounding, eyeball-obliterating, endurance-testing whitewater.��Class five nutsos–we have you covered! But what if you have young kids?� Or you want to lower, not raise your heart rate?� What of the unsung glories of the gentle float trip?� Ah, the float trip……….the chance to laze in the [...]
Proof! Rafting is good for your brain!
I love it when academia backs up the gospel we preach!� A recent NY Times article tells the tale of a group of bespecled professors setting aside their blackberries, cell phones, and iPads, and setting off for a multi-day raft trip on the San Juan river.� Experts in brain function and memory,�they set out to [...]
Scrambling Mt. Temple
This past week in the Canadian Rockies, enough snow has fallen at high elevations and the daytime temperatures have remained cool enough that scrambling season has clearly ended. Sure, any summit is accessible any time of year, if you’re a black-belt mountaineer. But a patina of snow and/or ice makes a long, steep, rough scramble [...]
Does The 'Energy Star' Label Need An Update?
A review in Consumer Reports says it's good news so many products have become energy efficient but calls for strengthening Energy Star standards to guide consumers to truly efficient products. Ira Flatow and guests discuss that report and overlooked ways people can save energy at home.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Our 'Honor Code' Isn't What It Used To Be
Stories of honor killings in South Asia horrify most Westerners. But it wasn't long ago that Americans fought duels and bought and sold slaves -- practices condemned today -- all in the name of honor. In his book, The Honor Code: How Moral Revolutions Happen, author Kwame Anthony Appiah examines the moral revolutions that led to the end of these practices, and what can be learned from history to solve today's problems.
Where the Wild Bunch Roam
Utah is the home of several famous places once homesteaded by many robbers, rustlers, outlaws and bandits. Some names more common than others, all modern day ‘Robin Hoods’ competing with the rich to help give back to the poor. Starting out with the most famous of them all was Robert LeRoy Packer, or better known [...]
20 Ways To Greet A Customer
So the retail staff �was tired of greeting customers in the same old ways: “Are you finding everything ok”? “Can I help you with something”? “If there is anything you need, feel free to ask”? So �they came up with some more interesting ways to greet folks in the store… enjoy! How?s Life? What?s New [...]
Our 'Honor Code' Isn't What It Used To Be
Stories of honor killings in South Asia horrify most Westerners. But it wasn't long ago that Americans fought duels and bought and sold slaves -- practices condemned today -- all in the name of honor. In his book, The Honor Code: How Moral Revolutions Happen, author Kwame Anthony Appiah examines the moral revolutions that led to the end of these practices, and what can be learned from history to solve today's problems.
North Korea's Next Leader A Surprising Secret
For the past week, the world has been waiting for news about who will be North Korea's next leader. But in a time when nearly everyone learns everything at the same moment, North Korea has somehow managed to keep its secrets from thousands of prying eyes.
Treating Blindness Takes More Than Meets The Eye
Advances in medicine are making it increasingly possible to replace or regrow parts of the eye. But restoring sight may require changes in the brain as well -- and that's much harder to achieve.
Memories of Nankoweap
On our last day on the river our guide, Ruth, asked us for the one memory we would take with us, to go back to in our minds when we needed to return to the peace and beauty of the Canyon. Those of us who had hiked to Nankoweap all chose it as our memory. [...]
D.C. Mayor's Race A Matter Of Style
Washington, D.C., Mayor Adrian Fenty entered office being touted as a rising young Democratic star. Now, he's in a tough race for renomination in Tuesday's primary. Most polls show his challenger, City Council Chairman Vince Gray, in the lead.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
The New Republic: Climate Bill Stumps Republicans
Businesses in California are split on the issue of climate change legislation,so candidates Meg Whitman and Carly Fiorina don't know whether to support it. Bradford Plumer of The New Republic argues this is emblematic of new attitudes in the business community, and in the Republican party.
Chicago's Recommended Daley Allowance
Mayor Richard M. Daley said this week that he'll retire after six terms and 22 years -- serving five months longer than his father, Richard J. Daley. He didn't manage to curb corruption, but he did a great many things that earned him the right to be judged as a mayor, not as his father's son.
Foreign Policy: Obama's Promises Not Fulfilled
President-elect Obama promised Americans a change in the War on Terror. On the anniversary of the attacks of Sept. 11th, commentator James Traub argues that Obama has abandoned Bush's approach to terrorism, and has held on to Dick Cheney's.
2 Police Killed, 5 Wounded In Attacks In South Russia
The separate attacks follow a suicide bombing Thursday in North Ossetia. Russia's ethnically diverse North Caucasus region has been plagued by violence stemming from two separatist wars in Chechnya and fueled by poverty, official corruption and police abuses.
Unlike pundits, Cornyn doubts GOP majority in Senate (Houston Chronicle)
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Does The 'Energy Star' Label Need An Update?
A review in Consumer Reports says it's good news so many products have become energy efficient but calls for strengthening Energy Star standards to guide consumers to truly efficient products. Ira Flatow and guests discuss that report and overlooked ways people can save energy at home.
N. Korea's Next Leader A Surprising Secret
For the past week, the world has been waiting for news about who will be North Korea's next leader. But in a time when nearly everyone learns everything at the same moment, North Korea has somehow managed to keep its secrets from thousands of prying eyes.
Obama's Response to Jones Mess is Troubling
Charles Lane, Wash PostPresident Obama was certainly right to be disgusted by "Reverend" Terry Jones's threat to stage a public burning of the Koran, a plan that was mean, stupid, intolerant, and spookily evocative of Hitlerian book bonfires. But I am also troubled by Obama's efforts to hector Jones into changing his mind. Everyone should worry when presidents invoke wartime security, or similar arguments, against constitutionally protected free speech, even -- or especially -- when the speech is offensive, outrageous and unpopular.Strictly speaking, there was nothing unconstitutional about...
South Fork Float Trips
We spend a lot of time extolling the virtues of heart-pounding, eyeball-obliterating, endurance-testing whitewater.��Class five nutsos–we have you covered! But what if you have young kids?� Or you want to lower, not raise your heart rate?� What of the unsung glories of the gentle float trip?� Ah, the float trip……….the chance to laze in the [...]
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Where to bike-hike NOW in Kananaskis Country: Piper Pass via Little Elbow
Our tireless, adventurous friend, Ian, recently accompanied us on a 12-hour-marathon, bike-hike trip to Piper Pass via the Little Elbow and West Fork Little Elbow river valleys. Approaching the pass, I asked him, “How many people do you think get here each summer?” He paused, glanced at the feint route underfoot, gazed at the gorgeous [...]
Obama Touts Polices, Concedes Economy Still Hurting
In a rare White House press conference Friday, President Barack Obama said the economy is showing improvement but conceded progress has been "painfully slow."
Shumlin Declared The Winner In Vermont Democratic Gov Primary
Seventeen days after the primary, we now have a winner in the Vermont Democratic gubernatorial primary:� It is State Senate President Peter Shumlin.
Our Guide Lars
Lars Haarr was tour leader on our Mystical Peru adventure which included history, culture, river running and a 5-day trek to Machu Picchu. He could not have been more attentive to the eleven of us. We found out it will be Lars’ birthday in a few days, and I was inspired to write the following [...]
Back From Whitewater Kayaking the Selway River, ID
(Not my video, not my trip – but since I’m short on photos I had to put something on here, and not only is this Ladle Rapid on the Selway, it’s also an amazing testimonial to hanging in there on the roll – gotta love it. ) Anyway, I’m using the fact that I did [...]
Video: Dan Patrinellis? Whitewater Kayaking Pin on Icicle Creek
Dan Patrinellis was wearing a helmet camera when he got pinned on a low-water run of Icicle Creek about a week ago.� Here’s his video – it took a while for him to get the throw bag, and he said the hairy moment came when he pulled his spray skirt and the boat went deeper [...]
Akamina Ridge, Akamina-Kishinena Provincial Park
Trip 1, on page 42 of Don’t Waste Your Time in the Canadian Rockies, the Opinionated Hiking Guide, is Akamina Ridge / Wall and Forum Lakes. It’s a supreme ridgewalk in little-known Akamina-Kishinena Provincial Park. Views from the alpine ridgecrest extend across the adjacent national parks: Waterton Lakes (Alberta, Canada), and Glacier (Montana, USA). We [...]
Friday, September 10, 2010
California Rafting Flow Update
And then there were two. With all the spring runs but a distant memory, and the Tuolumne and Cherry Creek just put out to pasture for the year, what’s a California rafting enthusiast to do?� Weep gently and go to a cage fight for an adrenaline rush?� Of course not.� Rely–as we do–on those old [...]
Will Voters Teach Democrats a Lesson?
Megan McArdle, The AtlanticMegan McArdle - Megan McArdle is the business and economics editor for The Atlantic. She has worked at three start-ups, a consulting firm, an investment bank, a disaster recovery firm at Ground Zero, and the Economist. Bio | All Posts Sep 9 2010, 11:25 AM ET | Comment After you comment, click Post. If you're not already logged in you will be asked to log in or register.Recent posts from our network of expert outside CorrespondentsSign up to receive our two free newsletters This Week on TheAtlantic.com (sample) This Month in...
Determining 'Brain Age' With A Simple Scan
Doctors can easily tell whether a child's body is growing normally. But they have a much harder time assessing the brain. Now, using a new type of MRI scan, they can more accurately determine a child's "brain age" and help identify children with developmental problems.
Appeals Court Lifts Stem Cell Funding Ban For Now
The federal court ruling permits government funding of stem cell research to proceed temporarily until the court rules on the merits of the Obama administration's position in the case.
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