Saturday, December 31, 2011
Takes from the Des Moines Register Poll (TIME)
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With Time Jump, Early New Year Cheer In Samoa
New Year's Eve revelers on the South Pacific island nation greeted the start of 2012 with extra excitement: For once, they were the first in the world to welcome the new year, rather than the last.
Ted Borland B-Roll Footage From "Ransack Rebellion"
Ted Borland rips through beers and rails in this b-roll footage from Think Thank’s "Ransack Rebellion".
prAna Annual Holiday Party 2011 (pictorial)
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Martin Litton Interview
Click here to view the video version of this interview. If you have a soft spot in your heart for rivers, then chances are Martin Litton is on your list of heroes. He first floated the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon in 1955—the 185th known person to follow in explorer John Wesley Powell’s footsteps. [...]
My New Year's Is 62 Million Times Bigger Than Yours, Said The Man From Beijing
Who's got the biggest New Year's Eve on Earth? Or, another way: Which time zone has the most people in it. The answer is clear.
No TGIF For Samoa This Week
Thank goodness it's Friday unless you live in the island nation of Samoa. In which case it's Saturday. The country is skipping a day ? shifting its calendar ? to join the same time zone as trading partners Australia and New Zealand.
Active State Living Inhabit Furnishings & Dining Opportunity Furniture Prefabricated of Wood (brutus1964.blogspot)
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Friday, December 30, 2011
My New Year's Is 62 Million Times Bigger Than Yours, Said The Man From Beijing
Who's got the biggest New Year's Eve on Earth? Or, another way: Which time zone has the most people in it. The answer is clear.
Inside the Newt Smackdown
Josh Marshall, Talking Points MemoAbout a month ago, when Newt’s numbers were shooting the moon, I wrote that as much as the numbers suggested otherwise there was simply no way the GOP establishment would let Newt Gingrich take the nomination. Just too stupid an idea, too suicidal for the party and everything connected to it.That was no great insight. And I’m chagrined to say I briefly wavered in my certainty that Newt simply couldn’t happen — the numbers were just so strong!But I’m thinking back on it now because at the time a lot of TPM Readers wrote in to say, what...
Tales from the Sunny Northwest: Splitboarding Mt St Helens
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Winter weather had, for most of December, forgotten about the Cascades. Dave Gahn, Shawn Fryer, Justin 'red' Kious and myself had had enough of snowcat-manicured surfaces. With adventure on our minds, we jumped in Dave's new (to him) 1991 Toyota Previa Thursday, December 15, with a Mt St Helens summit on the radar.
Mt St Helens sits just an hour and a half northeast of Portland, Oregon. In early 1980, Mt St Helens sat at 9,667 feet above sea level. Following a massive eruption on May 18 of the same year that spread ash as far east as Minnesota, she was reduced to 8,363 feet. Dave, being the most experienced of the bunch, enlightened us that any volcano summit done during the winter months was a exceptional feat. So we went. Exiting I-5 towards Cougar, WA, we aimed towards the big white mountain. The access was pretty straight-forward: volcanic fingers pointed the most direct route to the summit. The trail was in ideal skinning conditions, allowing for 90% of the approach to be completed with skins on, with the rest of the ascent involving boot packing around rocky ridge features. It took just six hours to gain 5,500 vertical feet to the crater at the summit.
The views from St Helens are my personal favorite amongst Cascade volcanoes and the clear skies afforded great views: the crater is alive, the lava dome is growing and you can see sulfur plums creeping from the rock below. To the northeast sits Spirit Lake, thousands of scorched trees still occupying 30% of the lake's visible surface. We skinned up under sun and summited under a lenticular cloud, only to have it blow out for a sunny descent.
The surface snow had been sitting for a while, so it had some water content--edgeable but shallow, with a healthy crust and hidden rocks. It wasn't blower powder by any means and required light feet and open eyes ready for textural transitions. Still, the descent was a blast through the steep sections and rolling gullies down low let us remain strapped in all the way back to the van. Beers in Cougar rounded out an exceptional day atop Mt St Helens--one of the most aesthetic volcanos in the Pacific Northwest.
Main Image: Dave Ghan (left) and Shawn Freyer (right) discuss 2012 strategy atop the summit crater. Photo: Byron Bagwell.
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Winter weather had, for most of December, forgotten about the Cascades. Dave Gahn, Shawn Fryer, Justin 'red' Kious and myself had had enough of snowcat-manicured surfaces. With adventure on our minds, we jumped in Dave's new (to him) 1991 Toyota Previa Thursday, December 15, with a Mt St Helens summit on the radar.
Mt St Helens sits just an hour and a half northeast of Portland, Oregon. In early 1980, Mt St Helens sat at 9,667 feet above sea level. Following a massive eruption on May 18 of the same year that spread ash as far east as Minnesota, she was reduced to 8,363 feet. Dave, being the most experienced of the bunch, enlightened us that any volcano summit done during the winter months was a exceptional feat. So we went. Exiting I-5 towards Cougar, WA, we aimed towards the big white mountain. The access was pretty straight-forward: volcanic fingers pointed the most direct route to the summit. The trail was in ideal skinning conditions, allowing for 90% of the approach to be completed with skins on, with the rest of the ascent involving boot packing around rocky ridge features. It took just six hours to gain 5,500 vertical feet to the crater at the summit.
The views from St Helens are my personal favorite amongst Cascade volcanoes and the clear skies afforded great views: the crater is alive, the lava dome is growing and you can see sulfur plums creeping from the rock below. To the northeast sits Spirit Lake, thousands of scorched trees still occupying 30% of the lake's visible surface. We skinned up under sun and summited under a lenticular cloud, only to have it blow out for a sunny descent.
The surface snow had been sitting for a while, so it had some water content--edgeable but shallow, with a healthy crust and hidden rocks. It wasn't blower powder by any means and required light feet and open eyes ready for textural transitions. Still, the descent was a blast through the steep sections and rolling gullies down low let us remain strapped in all the way back to the van. Beers in Cougar rounded out an exceptional day atop Mt St Helens--one of the most aesthetic volcanos in the Pacific Northwest.
Main Image: Dave Ghan (left) and Shawn Freyer (right) discuss 2012 strategy atop the summit crater. Photo: Byron Bagwell.
Toil and Water Mix on a Raft Trip
A Salmon River run offers something for the whole family – berry picking, campfire singing, cave exploring…even pedicures. When the cool, deep shaft of the abandoned copper mine ended in a wall of rock, guide Mike Thurber turned to the group and said, “Turn off your flashlights.” We were about 100 yards into an Idaho [...]
Rick Santorum?s path to victory (Washington Post)
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Peace Game Puts 'Weight Of The World' On Students
Teacher John Hunter invented the World Peace Game to get his elementary students to think about major world issues. He also wanted to teach them compassion and kindness. At least two of his former students are on the path he helped to pave.
Thursday, December 29, 2011
The Tragedy of Obama's Presidency
Milton Wolf, Washington TimesThere’s something profoundly tragic about the failed presidency of Barack Obama. He was supposed to be a new kind of president, a man who embodied hope and would transcend petty politics and even race. Instead, we’re left with a downgraded America that is stagnating under the weight of its bloated government. As tragic as that alone is, even this is but a mere symptom of Mr. Obama’s larger fundamental failure: He simply does not trust the Americans who entrusted him with the presidency.
Debunked Science: Studies Take Heat In 2011
In the world of science, 2011 may go down as the year of the retraction. Lots of highly publicized discoveries got debunked this year. And many of those discoveries involved findings that both scientists and the public really wanted to believe.
Foreign Policy Could Be Sleeper Issue of 2012
Philip Klein, DC ExaminerForeign policy issues dominated the 2008 presidential primary season, but by the time the general election rolled around, the focus had shifted to the economy. Could the reverse be true in 2012?During the last presidential cycle, the Iraq War played a major role in the nominations of Sens. Barack Obama and John McCain. On the Democratic side, the fact that the inexperienced Obama had opposed the invasion from the beginning gave him the edge over the heavily favored Hillary Clinton, who as a senator had voted to give President Bush the authority to go to war.
Video: Chelan Gorge 2011 Whitewater Kayaking Carnage ? It?s Awesome! :)
Chris Totten put together this great video of the whitewater kayaking carnage resulting from the Chelan Gorge huckfest�in summer of 2011.� I have to say when I heard the scoop on the weekend and the list of extremely good boaters that swam, my jaw dropped.� Chris said it was more carnage in two days than [...]
A Poem A Day Keeps The Craziness Away
Author Alan Heathcock was feeling harried and overwhelmed ? until he came up with an innovative solution for finding a little peace: reading a poem every day.
Trees In Trouble: Grim Future For Frankincense
The wise men would be one gift short at the manger ? frankincense, one of the gifts given to the baby Jesus, is now in short supply. The trees from which the fragrant resin is produced are declining, and in 15 years, frankincense production could be cut in half.
The Terrible GOP Field
Gene Lyons, SalonPardon me if I fail to join the crowd handicapping next week’s Iowa GOP caucuses like race track touts peddling betting tips on the Kentucky Derby.To begin with, I have no clue. Except on the sports page, I normally skip articles speculating about what might happen tomorrow. Damned if I’m going to start writing them.Also, who cares? History teaches that Iowa Republicans have a particularly poor record of supporting the eventual presidential winner.
Iran Ratchets Up Tension, Threatens To Cut Oil Route
The country's top admiral says his forces can easily close the strategic Strait of Hormuz, where up to 20 percent of the world's oil flows. In response, the U.S. warns that any disruption at the strait "will not be tolerated." And a Saudi official says Gulf Arab nations are ready to offset any loss of Iranian crude.
Romney Packs 'Em In As Momentum Builds In Iowa
Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney had down played his prospects in Iowa for most of this year. But with the caucuses just days away, Romney is crisscrossing the state. He seems determined to prove he'll be tough enough to take on President Obama.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Ted Borland B-Roll Footage From "Ransack Rebellion"
Ted Borland rips through beers and rails in this b-roll footage from Think Thank’s "Ransack Rebellion".
In Memoriam: Musicians We Lost In 2011
NPR Music remembers the singers, instrumentalists, songwriters and producers who died in 2011. Explore the musical legacies they leave behind.
?Where Locals Hike in the West Kootenay, The Premier Trails in Southwest B.C. near Kaslo & Nelson?
Completely revised 3rd edition due out next summer. Exciting new trails will include several originating at Sol Mountain Lodge and Mount Carlyle Backcountry Lodge It?s been more than a month since our last post. If you were following our blog until then, we apologize for our lengthy disappearance. We spent most of that time hiking [...]
Dusting Off A Gritty, Glamorous California Classic
As it turns out, Raymond Chandler isn't the only writer who can channel the dark charisma of deceptively sunny California. Author Hector Tobar recommends John Fante's Ask the Dust, a novel that captures the grit and glamor of Los Angeles' past.
Martin Litton Interview
Click here to view the video version of this interview. If you have a soft spot in your heart for rivers, then chances are Martin Litton is on your list of heroes. He first floated the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon in 1955—the 185th known person to follow in explorer John Wesley Powell’s footsteps. [...]
My First Time Rafting
“When I get back home, I can’t wait to book my next rafting trip,” Tracey told me. This was her first rafting and camping trip, and despite being a busy professional, hyper-connected to technology, and separated from her business, her experience on the incredible Rogue River in Oregon was amazing enough to inspire her to [...]
Fired Up: The Year's Best Science Fiction, Fantasy
Science fiction and fantasy books aren't just getting more popular, they're interbreeding with other genres to produce wild new hybrid forms ? swapping DNA with literary novels, commenting on current events, morphing into historical science fiction romances, and evolving into hard-boiled detective fantasy.
Congress Really Is As Bad As You Think, Scholars Say
Historians and educators are reaching back to the Civil War era to find a Congress so unable to perform basic duties. Two well-known Washington congressional scholars sum it up with a book they are writing, titled It's Even Worse Than It Looks.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Live: Radical Anti-Choice Personhood Groups Host 'Presidential Pro-Life Forum' (Little green footballs)
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Holder Fights for Voting Rights
Jeffrey Toobin, The New YorkerTwo years ago, the Supreme Court decided a case that may, it now appears, save Barack Obama's chances at reëlection"”and, more importantly, preserve a precious corner of American democracy. For many years now, the Voting Rights Act of 1965 has been under assault. The law requires that any changes in voting rules in certain states, mostly in the South, be "pre-cleared" by the Justice Department, to make sure that they do not impinge on the voting rights of minorities. Many people in these states and elsewhere have argued that the law is now obsolete...
Birders Fan Out to Count Feathered Friends
The 112th Audubon Christmas Bird Count is underway. Citizen scientists armed with binoculars are recording data vital to monitoring bird health and conservation. But before you can count a Snowy Owl or a Rufous Hummingbird, you need to identify it. Birder Richard Crossley has some tips.
In Iowa, All Eyes On Republican Hopefuls
Iowa voters will go to local caucus meetings on Jan. 3 in the first round of the presidential nominating process. In the Republican race, Mitt Romney and Ron Paul lead the polls, but it's unclear whether there will be a big winner in Iowa, Senior Washington Editor Ron Elving tells Robert Siegel.
President Enjoys Jump in Approval Ratings
Klatell & Swanson, The HillPresident Obama has seen his Gallup poll numbers jump into favorability for the first time since July.The rise in popularity arrives after a bruising defeat for Republicans over extending the payroll tax cut, a fight Democrats had hoped to use to their advantage.For the first time since July, more people view President Obama favorably than unfavorably for the first time since July, according to Gallup's tracking poll of the president's job approval rating.
Guided Family Bike Ride on the South Fork American Oct 2
If you’re headed up to raft the South Fork American with us the first weekend of October and you want an easy, affordable way to make a full weekend out of it, check out this cool opportunity with the American River Conservancy! On October 2 they are offering a guided, family-friendly�bike ride�on the South Fork [...]
?Where Locals Hike in the West Kootenay, The Premier Trails in Southwest B.C. near Kaslo & Nelson?
Completely revised 3rd edition due out next summer. Exciting new trails will include several originating at Sol Mountain Lodge and Mount Carlyle Backcountry Lodge It?s been more than a month since our last post. If you were following our blog until then, we apologize for our lengthy disappearance. We spent most of that time hiking [...]
Westbeach WAV BC Tee Emerald Eyes Triblend
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Monday, December 26, 2011
London Subway Strike Hampers 'Boxing Day' Shoppers
London's subway drivers walked out over a pay dispute Monday, causing trouble for thousands of shoppers out to take advantage of traditional Boxing Day sales.
Long-Term Jobless Borrow Money To Stay Afloat
More than half of the long-term unemployed and under-employed have had to borrow money from family and friends to pay their bills, according to a recent NPR News-Kaiser Family Foundation poll. And borrowing from friends and family can complicate the relationships.
Endangered Turtle Survives Trans-Atlantic Journey
The Kemp's ridley sea turtle, which hopped a ride aboard floating seaweed, made the 4,600 mile journey from the Gulf of Mexico to the shores of Portugal in 2008. Nicknamed Johnny Vasco de Gama, after the Portugese explorer, the now-rehabilitated turtle will be reintroduced into Gulf waters Tuesday.
Westbeach WAV BC Tee Black
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As Caucus Nears, Iowa's Relevance Again Questioned
An Atlantic article by a University of Iowa professor makes the state out to be less Field of Dreams and more Deliverance meets Children of the Corn. Stephen Bloom raises hard facts about how Iowa doesn't accurately represent America, but for many Iowans, the piece felt personal.
Earth Friendly Gift Wrap (video)
With millions of pounds of gift wrap going to landfills each holiday season, why not give the planet a break this year and use some of these great techniques with cloth/material. You can also use paper bags from your local … Continue reading →
Video: Susitna River First Descent (aka, Kayaking Masters of the Universe)
This is the most incredible video, taken in the 1970′s, of the first descent of the Susitna River in Alaska.� I am totally awed by the massive water these guys go through in old school boats and gear of that time – no Gore-Tex, no foam core paddles, no big-water hull shapes.� This video has [...]
?Where Locals Hike in the West Kootenay, The Premier Trails in Southwest B.C. near Kaslo & Nelson?
Completely revised 3rd edition due out next summer. Exciting new trails will include several originating at Sol Mountain Lodge and Mount Carlyle Backcountry Lodge It?s been more than a month since our last post. If you were following our blog until then, we apologize for our lengthy disappearance. We spent most of that time hiking [...]
New Sport? Snow Rafting??
Taking the idea of rafting in the summer and hitting the slopes in the winter to a whole new level………………here are AO rafting guide �Brandon (and Company) �experiencing the snowy Sierra in classic Mason style! Bookmark This!
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Foreign Policy: An Advent Calendar Of Optimism
In a year of turbulent change, there are, in fact, a few ways to look at recent developments and still be hopeful. Foreign Policy's David Rothkopf counts down 25 of 2011's most memorable moments.
Critics Say Obama's Efforts To Protect Science Are Slow and Weak
The Obama administration is trudging ahead with policies designed to protect the integrity of scientific research. But critics of the process say the policies that have been released so far don't do enough to prevent political manipulation of science.
Moments From The adVANture
I have to pee. Trying to get back to sleep, I hug the down comforter around my body, pull my beanie over my ears and silently repeat to myself, ?Go back to sleep. You can hold it.? After another moment … Continue reading →
Born From The Experience: An Insiders Perspective
When I got hired at prAna I did a celebration dance. The kind that makes innocent bystanders laugh, dance along (if they?re as cool as you) or freeze up because they?re embarrassed for you. What? You don?t like my running … Continue reading →
Kim Jong Un's Uncle Plays Key Role In Future
North Korea on Sunday aired footage showing the uncle and key patron of anointed heir Kim Jong Un wearing a military uniform with a general's insignia ? a strong sign he'll play a greater role in efforts to secure the young man's rise to power after the death of his father, Kim Jong Il, a week ago.
The Science Behind 'Breaking Bad'
Cooking crystal meth is just "basic chemistry" for Walter White, the fictional chemistry teacher and anti-hero of the TV drama "Breaking Bad." Organic chemist Donna Nelson serves as science adviser to the show; she explains how the series' writers work to get the science right.
America and Russia's New Cold War
Heather Conley, Washington PostSanta Claus may see you when you’re sleeping, but NORAD makes sure it sees Santa pretty much round-the-clock. The North American Aerospace Defense Command not only follows Saint Nick’s sleigh ride with its famous NORAD Tracks Santa site, but it is also involved in a struggle over resources, border control and broader military presence right in Santa’s vast and magnificent home: the Arctic.In April, President Obama signed a new command plan that gives NORAD and the U.S. Northern Command greater responsibility in protecting the North Pole and U.S. Arctic territory.
Fired Up: The Year's Best Science Fiction, Fantasy
Science fiction and fantasy books aren't just getting more popular, they're interbreeding with other genres to produce wild new hybrid forms ? swapping DNA with literary novels, commenting on current events, morphing into historical science fiction romances, and evolving into hard-boiled detective fantasy.
Saturday, December 24, 2011
First Lady Michelle Obama Helps Kids Track Santa (ABC News)
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Week In Politics: Tax Break Extension
Robert Siegel speaks with our regular political commentators, E.J. Dionne, of the Washington Post and Brookings Institution, and David Brooks, of the New York Times. They discuss the two-month extension for a tax break and unemployment benefits signed into law.
Gingrich ethics case from 15 years ago leaves scar (The Arizona Republic)
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Westbeach Hummer Tee Peanut Noir
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Your Top Ten Posts of 2011 (talking-points-memo)
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Ariz. Sheriff Punished For Document Destruction
A judge overseeing a lawsuit that alleges racial profiling in Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio's immigration patrols issued punishments against the agency on Friday for its acknowledged destruction of records in the case. The punishments come in the form of "adverse inferences" the judge may consider when deciding the case's facts.
A Lost Year for the American Middle Class
David Rohde, The AtlanticDavid Rohde
- David Rohde is a
columnist for Reuters, two-time winner of the Pulitzer Prize,
and a former reporter for The New York Times.
More
Dec 22 2011, 4:30 PM ET
Comment
- Jobs: Economists generally agree that the single
most effective way to revive the American middle class is to create
more high-paying, stable private sector jobs. The unexpected emergence
of 140,000 new private sector jobs in November helped drop the
unemployment rate to a two-and-a-half-year low 8.6 percent,
but the rosier figure was aided by 315,000 people who...
- David Rohde is a
columnist for Reuters, two-time winner of the Pulitzer Prize,
and a former reporter for The New York Times.
More
Dec 22 2011, 4:30 PM ET
Comment
- Jobs: Economists generally agree that the single
most effective way to revive the American middle class is to create
more high-paying, stable private sector jobs. The unexpected emergence
of 140,000 new private sector jobs in November helped drop the
unemployment rate to a two-and-a-half-year low 8.6 percent,
but the rosier figure was aided by 315,000 people who...
Westbeach Batter Up Tee Peanut Noir
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Number of Independent Voters Keeps Growing
Richard Wolf, USA TodayWASHINGTON – More than 2.5 million voters have left the Democratic and Republican parties since the 2008 elections, while the number of independent voters continues to grow.A USA TODAY analysis of state voter registration statistics shows registered Democrats declined in 25 of the 28 states that register voters by party. Republicans dipped in 21 states, while independents increased in 18 states.
Friday, December 23, 2011
Kim's Last Gift To N. Korea: Lots Of Fish
Loads and loads of fish were available in the capital. North Korea's state-run media reported that Kim was concerned about the supply of fish in Pyongyang, and had looked into the matter the day before he died. North Korea announced Monday that he died of a massive heart attack on Dec. 17.
Two Strengths Of Infant Acetaminophen Boost Confusion, Risk
Infant pain medicines are being changed to make them safer, but right now both old and new concentrations are on pharmacy shelves, increasing the risk of accidental overdoses that prompted the changes in the first place. Parents beware.
Number of Independent Voters Keeps Growing
Richard Wolf, USA TodayWASHINGTON – More than 2.5 million voters have left the Democratic and Republican parties since the 2008 elections, while the number of independent voters continues to grow.A USA TODAY analysis of state voter registration statistics shows registered Democrats declined in 25 of the 28 states that register voters by party. Republicans dipped in 21 states, while independents increased in 18 states.
Secret Hikes in the Canadian Rockies
“Please take that hike out of your book. It?s a secret few people know about. I want to keep it that way.” We rarely receive a request to excise a particular trip from one of our hiking guidebooks, but when we do, that?s the thrust of the argument: Someone wants to keep their ?secret route? [...]
Physicists Find 'Hints' of Elusive Higgs Boson
Two teams of scientists at CERN say they may have glimpsed the long-sought Higgs boson while studying particle collisions. Physicist Joe Incandela discusses how the teams are closing in on data that may prove the theoretical particle, considered a building block for the universe, exists.
The Nation: Why Do GOP Bosses Fear Ron Paul?
Ron Paul's criticisms of military interventionism and crony capitalism may scare the establishment. But The Nation's John Nichols explains why grassroots Republicans are intrigued by Paul's old-fashioned conservatism.
The 'Girl In The Blue Bra'
The image has become the rallying cry for thousands of Egyptian women who marched in Cairo demanding the end of military rule. Beyond Egypt, the content of the image was recently condemned by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who said, "systematic degradation of Egyptian women dishonors the revolution, disgraces the state and its uniform, and is not worthy of a great people."
Michelle Obama Gets Apology From Sensenbrenner For 'Big Butt' Remark
I must admit I would rather not be writing about a first lady's posterior.But this sorry state of affairs has been brought about by Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner, the Wisconsin Republican who has apologized for telling some constituents that Mrs. Obama has a large derriere.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Early October Rafting Update
Fall is officially here, but we are still officially rafting!� The Middle Fork of the American ended its season over the weekend, but we still have two fabulous California rivers we would love to share with you!� The South Fork of the American is of course still going strong.� No surprises there.� Class III rapids, [...]
Bonus Afternoon Links (Theagitator)
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Women of Bhakti (video)
Join Us On Facebook, Twitter, Vimeo & YouTube Functional Apparel for the Unconventional Spirit Check out the prAna Ambassadors
North Korea Awaits Kim Jong Un's Opening Moves
The death of longtime leader Kim Jong Il puts his son and heir apparent in the spotlight, even as preparations for next week's state funeral are still under way. The younger Kim inherits a country in dire economic straits, and faces a tough fight to consolidate his political power and legitimacy.
Guided Family Bike Ride on the South Fork American Oct 2
If you’re headed up to raft the South Fork American with us the first weekend of October and you want an easy, affordable way to make a full weekend out of it, check out this cool opportunity with the American River Conservancy! On October 2 they are offering a guided, family-friendly�bike ride�on the South Fork [...]
China Reportedly Hacked Chamber Of Commerce
The Wall Street Journal is reporting that hackers in China broke into computers at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, potentially accessing information about its operations and members. NPR's Tom Gjelten talks with Robert Siegel on what, if anything, the hackers could have accessed.
Flying Reindeer And The Bethlehem Star: When Science And Myth Intersect
Christmas, with flying reindeer and a bright shining star announcing the coming of Jesus is a time when myth and science intersect. Can science explain some of the Christmas myths?
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Video: Whitewater Kayaking the Final Chelan Gorge Release in 2011
Dan Patrinellis put together this really nice video of the last Chelan Gorge release this summer – sadly, it looks like that was the last release for years to come.� Word on the eddyline is that the water was warm and, as you can see, it was a gorgeous weekend. Rob McKibbin did a first [...]
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
The Politics Of The Keystone XL Pipeline Debate
House members on Tuesday rejected a Senate plan for extending the payroll tax cut. To attract House conservatives, the Senate had included a controversial provision forcing President Barack Obama to decide on the fate of a planned oil pipeline within 60 days.
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Exploring The Science Of Flying, From Your Window Seat
From identifying river deltas to understanding how an aircraft achieves lift, there's a lot of science to keep you busy on an airplane. In Inflight Science, science writer Brian Clegg explores the science and technology of airplanes, and the world as seen from your window seat.
Grand jury refuses to indict ex-Kodak worker on theft charges (Rochester Democrat and Chronicle)
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How The Army Made A Sandwich That Stays Fresh For Two Years
Army food scientists have figured out how to control pH, moisture, and oxygen inside the packaging of a pocket sandwich so that it can last for up to two years.
Don't Blame Tea Party for Tax Cut Fiasco
Charles Hurt, Washington TimesDemocrats finally find a tax cut they can abide, and so both sides agree to extend it. But just as they are about to partake in the bipartisan peace pipe a few days before Christmas, Congress promptly grinds to a squabbling halt threatening a $1,000-tax increase for workers and the evaporation of unemployment benefits for those out of work.Merry freaking Christmas, American people!And then when it comes to explaining themselves, Democrats walk out with straight faces and blame - who else? - the tea party.
The Nation: The End Of Welfare As I Knew It
Whatever happened to welfare? The Nation's Diana Spatz looks back to the signing of Temporary Assistance to Needy Families in 1996.
One and a half weeks left for Middle Fork Rafting!
Put off your Shoot the (Tunnel) Chute plans no longer! No time to waste because after October 1st there won’t be any water on the Middle Fork.� Well, there will be enough for fish and such, and enough for the treasure hunters to head out with their masks and fins to search for the sunglasses [...]
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
How We Can Avoid Becoming Like Japan
David Smick, CommentaryThese days, it is said, the industrialized world economy is like a beauty pageant for the unattractive in which the victor will be the contestant deemed the least ugly. And so, as disappointingly as the U.S. economy has performed over the past four years, America could still end up a winner. That helps explain why U.S. Treasury bonds continue to be the safe haven for the world’s capital. But is being the “least ugly” good enough for a country experiencing rising social disruption stemming from high unemployment and declining personal income?Twice a year, the...
What Is Food?
This question is almost so basic that it never really gets asked. I mean, we all know what food is. Right? It’s the stuff we eat. Everyday. A few times a day. Food, like water, keeps us alive. But, what … Continue reading →
Radical Republican Winterfest
Dana Milbank, Washington PostHouse Speaker John Boehner gave a spirited reply when asked recently about whether his party’s resistance to middle-class tax cuts risked making Republicans appear to be lackeys of the rich.“I’ve got 11 brothers and sisters on every rung of the economic ladder, all right?” Boehner said. “My dad owned a bar. I know what’s going on out in America.”So Boehner has his finger on the American pulse because his deceased father owned a saloon? What strange brew have they been pouring in the speaker’s office?
Weekly Standard: A Very Beatable President
President Obama's taking a beating, but can the GOP still blow it? The Weekly Standard's Jay Cost takes a look at the factors shaping the 2012 presidential election.
Jeremy Jones' Further Unplugged: Episode 2
Here we have Jeremy Jones traveling deep into the Arctic Circle and the island of Svalbard, Norway. Jones is joined by Terje Haakonsen and others on their 30-hour sled journey into the backcountry. The group is faced with a number of obstacles including melting ice, exploding yogurt and, worst of all, a lack of beer. The Unplugged series by TGR brings you behind the scenes footage of Jones' two-year snowboarding film, "Further".
GOP Voters Undecided Heading Into Iowa Caucuses
With just about two weeks to go before the Iowa caucuses, polls show a majority of likely caucus-goers still have an open mind about which Republican candidate to support for president. What information will they use to make up their mind, and how will they reach a final decision?
National Menorah to be lit in DC for Hanukkah (Providence Journal)
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In Calif. Mental Hospitals, Assaults Rarely A Crime
Most of the patients in the state's psychiatric hospitals have been committed by the criminal justice system ? and violence against staff members and other patients is on the rise. But of the thousands of attacks that occur each year, few are treated as crimes.
Monday, December 19, 2011
Lesser-known candidates share spotlight in NH (The Arizona Republic)
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Our Big Backyard in Canmore
When traveling outside Canada, we often say “Banff” when someone asks us where we’re from. It’s just easier, because most people have at least heard of Banff National Park, while relatively few are familiar with Canmore. But we wince when we do it, because we love Canmore and feel proud and fortunate to reside here. [...]
Finally, GOP Finds Its New Welfare Queens
Mark Schmitt, New RepublicIf you've been watching the Republican presidential debates, you've likely heard a surprising amount of talk about welfare reform. Both Newt Gingrich and Rick Santorum identify the 1996 law, which the Republican Congress eventually forced President Clinton to sign, as their signature achievements, emblematic of the kind of policies they would pursue as president. Even the logic, if you can call it that, behind Gingrich's proposal to have schoolchildren work as janitors is lifted straight from the most extreme rhetoric of welfare reform: that poor kids live in neighborhoods...
Foreign Policy: Newt Skywalker Sees The Future
Newt Ginrich has long warned of a new generation of futuristic weapons that could destroy America. Sharon Weinberger of Foreign Policy argues that in some cases, he might have a point.
Senate OKs Two More Months For Payroll Tax Cut
In a rare Saturday year-end session, the Senate's action averted a shutdown but was not the last word on the payroll tax cut extension.
EPA To Unveil Stricter Rules For Power Plants
The rules, which come two decades after Congress ordered the agency to regulate toxic air pollution, would give power plants nationwide just three more years to slash mercury and other harmful emissions. But some big power plants are angling for more time.
Raycraft to retire (Offthekuff)
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Homeless At 60: 'A Bullet I Didn't See Coming'
Queen Jackson has been homeless for about a year. As she recently told her case manager, Debra MacKillop, it all started in 2009, when she was laid off. Since then, there have been hard moments ? and some precious ones, as well.
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Israel Completes Swap, Releases Final Prisoners
Israel released hundreds of Palestinian prisoners late Sunday, the second and final phase of a swap with Gaza Hamas militants that brought home an Israeli soldier after five years in captivity.
A Passion For The Past: 2011's Best Historical Fiction
These five outstanding novels take us to unfamiliar eras and exotic locales ? ancient Israel, Elizabethan England, 1920s Paris ? while confirming our common humanity.
Christopher Hitchens: 'Atheist Intellectual,' 'Noble Contrarian'
He was "the Cicero of the saloon bar" and a "polemicist who slashed all, freely, with wit," headline writers say. Hitchens died Thursday at the age of 62, after a long battle with cancer.
Homeless At 60: 'A Bullet I Didn't See Coming'
Queen Jackson has been homeless for about a year. As she recently told her case manager, Debra MacKillop, it all started in 2009, when she was laid off. Since then, there have been hard moments ? and some precious ones, as well.
Nike Norwegian Snowboarding Team Video
In this video filmed by Johannes Brenning, riders from the Nike Snowboarding team talk about their awesome lives as pro-snowboarders and, of course, catch some big air at the Nike shoot in Stranda last spring. Riders include Halldor Helgason, Germund Bråten, Jamie Nicholls, Silje Norendal and Ethan Morgan.
prAna Ambassador Aliz�e Dufraisse on Patinoso 8C+ at Siurana
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Go Like a Pro: Traveling Abroad
Tips, tricks and life-saving advice! When it comes to hopping on a plane for a rafting trip in Fiji, a sea kayaking expedition in the Galapagos, or any other big adventure outside of the U.S., thoughtful planning and packing is critical. We’ve compiled a list of expert advice ranging from clothing to what to have [...]
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Whitewater Kayaking Gear: What to Buy ? Drysuits and Paddles
As soon as you start shopping for whitewater kayaking gear�you realize there are quite a few choices to make about each item, and it can be hard to know what to buy when you don’t have a ton of experience.� The stuff’s expensive too, so you really want to buy gear that you won’t want [...]
Des Moines Register endorses Romney in GOP caucus (Washington Post)
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No Government Shutdown Thanks To Last-Minute Deal
It's not clear how close Congress is to resolving two nagging issues: extensions of both the payroll tax cut and unemployment benefits. What we do know is that nothing will be resolved until Monday. That's because the House has gone home for the weekend. But the government won't be shutting down Friday, as a result of a last-minute deal.
Putting Farmland On A Fertilizer Diet
With the release of a new standard, the federal government wants farmers to stop the spread of nutrients outside farm fields into waterways. Essentially, it involves putting farmland on a sensible diet.
prAna Receives CalRecycle 2011 Waste Reduction Award
CalRecycle Announces 2011 Waste Reduction Award Winners: California organizations recognized for green business practices SACRAMENTO–The Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle) today announced recipients of this year?s waste reduction awards. Interest in the 2011 program was high, with 280 … Continue reading →
A Perfect Fall Getaway
Attention AO rafters! Are you looking for a fun weekend to get away from school or work? One of those cool Fall weekends when you smell the rain coming and watch the red and orange leaves tumble down from the trees and think, I really need to do something relaxing? If that infomercial-esque description is [...]
frequency Approved: Smith I/O Goggle
Since Smith Optics released the I/O goggle three years back, they have been my go-to eyewear for a number of reasons. First and foremost: the lenses. Optical clarity, especially in the humid and often greybird conditions of my home in the Pacific Northwest, the Sensor Mirror lenses are hard to beat. Add in the fact that they come with a second lens—in my case a good all-rounder, the Ignitor Mirror—and you can still make out a few shadows in most lighting conditions, even when it’s getting pea-soupy in the alpine.
This leads to the second great advantage of the I/O: easy interchangeability, which doesn’t suck. Let me expand—preceding interchangeable goggle designs had been gimmicky, finicky, and pretty awful when it comes down to staying closed and keeping snow out. In 200-plus days wearing the I/O over the past couple seasons, I’ve never experienced face-shot-induced snow inside the lens. Enough said. Add to the fact that they’re low profile with none of the oversized bug-eye look that you may expect with interchangeable goggles, and, in fact, even less bulk than many standard options. Venting also remains dialed in, and the only way I’ve gotten them to fog is hiking with them on my head/around my neck which is a dumb move anyways, or snow inside the goggles after a good tomahawk.
And, lastly, the fit is also hard to beat. Enough room around the nose to keep them comfy, not too much to look ridiculous. Maybe not the best choice if you’re the type that wants to goggle sag, but I’d rather have goggles that fit. Coupled with a Smith Maze helmet for the last couple years—the lightest certified snow helmet around—it’s a seamless, low-profile package that keeps my head warm, goggles on and vision clear.
Add to it the custom graphics of the special edition Mt Baker Legendary Banked Slalom goggle pictured, and I don’t need another pair of goggles—except maybe a second pair of I/O’s in the pack in case of emergency.
Undoubtedly frequency Approved.
This leads to the second great advantage of the I/O: easy interchangeability, which doesn’t suck. Let me expand—preceding interchangeable goggle designs had been gimmicky, finicky, and pretty awful when it comes down to staying closed and keeping snow out. In 200-plus days wearing the I/O over the past couple seasons, I’ve never experienced face-shot-induced snow inside the lens. Enough said. Add to the fact that they’re low profile with none of the oversized bug-eye look that you may expect with interchangeable goggles, and, in fact, even less bulk than many standard options. Venting also remains dialed in, and the only way I’ve gotten them to fog is hiking with them on my head/around my neck which is a dumb move anyways, or snow inside the goggles after a good tomahawk.
And, lastly, the fit is also hard to beat. Enough room around the nose to keep them comfy, not too much to look ridiculous. Maybe not the best choice if you’re the type that wants to goggle sag, but I’d rather have goggles that fit. Coupled with a Smith Maze helmet for the last couple years—the lightest certified snow helmet around—it’s a seamless, low-profile package that keeps my head warm, goggles on and vision clear.
Add to it the custom graphics of the special edition Mt Baker Legendary Banked Slalom goggle pictured, and I don’t need another pair of goggles—except maybe a second pair of I/O’s in the pack in case of emergency.
Undoubtedly frequency Approved.
Adjusting to the new Council (Offthekuff)
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Obama's Class Warfare May Be Big Loser
Ross Kaminsky, Am. SpectatorDuring the heady days of the 2009 protests against the "Porkulus" bill, Obamacare, and big government in general, many people spoke of the rise of the Tea Party movement as the result of Presidents Obama and Bush having "woken the sleeping giant" of pro-liberty America.But that giant may turn out to be a pygmy when compared to what Barack Obama, Harry Reid, and Occupy Wall Street have awoken with their incessant and intensifying class warfare.
Thandie Newton The Avatars of Second Life The Pussycat Dolls
Friday, December 16, 2011
Amy Purdy ? Living Beyond Limits | TEDxOrangeCoast (video)
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Wild and Scenic Film Festival: January 2012
Yes, it’s hard to imagine now, but after the holidays are over and it’s just you and your resolutions and cloudy skies and rainy days, you are going to be seriously glad you planned ahead and got tickets for the annual Wild and Scenic Film Festival in Nevada City!� This year’s line-up will include pieces [...]
'Voice of Vatican' Foley eulogized at Pa. church (Providence Journal)
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President's Problem With Independents Continues
Agiesta & Thomas, APWASHINGTON (AP) "” Entering 2012, President Barack Obama's re-election prospects are essentially a 50-50 proposition, with a majority saying the president deserves to be voted out of office despite concerns about the Republican alternatives, according to a new Associated Press-GfK poll.Obama's overall poll numbers suggest he's in jeopardy of losing, even as the public's outlook on the economy appears to be improving, the AP-GfK poll found. For the first time since spring, more said the economy got better in the past month than said it got worse.The...
Exercise Info, Not Calorie Counts, Helps Teens Drop Sodas
Teenagers were less likely to buy a sugary soft drink if they knew it would take 50 minutes of jogging to burn off the calories. Researchers in Baltimore slapped signs on the drink coolers in corner markets to see what information would encourage healthier drink choices.
An Unfair Attack on War Hero Dakota Meyer
Rick Leventhal, FOX NewsDakota Meyer never asked for the attention he's getting and he's never considered himself a hero. He was thrust into the spotlight because of his actions in battle on the worst day of his life in one of the roughest places on earth, a day when his best friends died despite his most determined efforts to save them.Now, the Medal of Honor recipient is dealing with a new firestorm. Allegations made by a writer embedded with his unit that some details of the narrative of that day are false.
Not So Fast, Newt: Gingrich As Polling Phenomenon
We do know that it's a lot easier to tell a pollster you're for somebody than it is to vote for that somebody. The former is theory, the latter is fact. People know when they are going to vote and they get ready. No one knows when or even whether they're going to be polled.
Where in the World is AO? Hanging with the Prez?..
Ah yes, Mt Rushmore.� That paragon of Americana, good taste, and Ode to the Executive Branch.� And now, a new addition: Noonies. Perhaps you recognize him from Cherry Creek?� Didn’t�know�he loves the Midwest though, right? Neither did we. . . but are�thrilled at this contribution to the collection.�If you’ve taken your AO to the Corn [...]
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Stephen Kenney Interview
Click here to view the video version of this interview. Stephen Kenney is one of our top river guides on the forks of the Salmon River, the Snake River through Hells Canyon and on the Colorado River (both in Cataract Canyon & the Grand Canyon). Considering his diverse boating capabilities, Kenney gets to enjoy a [...]
New Republic: Are We Serious About Stopping Assad?
Is the international community finally getting serious about stopping Syria's Bashar al-Assad? The New Republic's Michael Weiss looks at the movement to oust the Syrian president.
Be Good To You
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Happy Bill of Rights Day! (Theagitator)
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Jenny Block: "Cavalia": This Show's Not Horsing Around (Huffington post)
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U.S. military marks end of its war in Iraq (reuters)
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?Where Locals Hike in the West Kootenay, The Premier Trails in Southwest B.C. near Kaslo & Nelson?
Completely revised 3rd edition due out next summer. Exciting new trails will include several originating at Sol Mountain Lodge and Mount Carlyle Backcountry Lodge It?s been more than a month since our last post. If you were following our blog until then, we apologize for our lengthy disappearance. We spent most of that time hiking [...]
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Secret Hikes in the Canadian Rockies
“Please take that hike out of your book. It?s a secret few people know about. I want to keep it that way.” We rarely receive a request to excise a particular trip from one of our hiking guidebooks, but when we do, that?s the thrust of the argument: Someone wants to keep their ?secret route? [...]
Wild On B: Jake Burton
In this short video from Burton, the legend, Jake Burton, takes a trip to Weigeles for some pow riding and also talks about the birth of Burton snowboards. Burton has been on the cutting edge of snowboarding since 1977 – riders all over the world owe Jake Burton a lot for his contributions and innovations to the sport.
Climate Conference Goes Into Overtime
Negotiators from 194 nations worked straight through a second night, parsing drafts and seeking compromises to map out the future pathway to fight global warming. Delegates, working on little sleep, huddled with allies to prepare for a decisive meeting later Saturday.
FBI To Change Definition of Forcible Rape (ABC News)
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Secret Hikes in the Canadian Rockies
“Please take that hike out of your book. It?s a secret few people know about. I want to keep it that way.” We rarely receive a request to excise a particular trip from one of our hiking guidebooks, but when we do, that?s the thrust of the argument: Someone wants to keep their ?secret route? [...]
Westbeach WAV BC Tee Heather Grey
WAV BC Tee Heather Grey COUPON CODE: Save 5% with code GETFIVEOFF � Price �18.00 Category: !Womens Snowboarding Streetwear!
For Some Arab Revolutionaries, A Serbian Tutor
Srdja Popovic was a key figure in the 2000 revolution in Serbia, and in recent years he's been providing training to other would-be revolutionaries. His pupils include young Arabs who have played leading roles in uprisings in their countries during the past year.
Letters: The Postal Service,Why We Gossip
NPR's Neal Conan reads from listener comments on previous show topics including advising your child's career path, reasons why the U.S. Postal Service is still useful, and what happens when you gossip.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Batman prAna
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Westbeach The Intern Toque Whisper
The Intern Toque Whisper COUPON CODE: Save 5% with code GETFIVEOFF � Price �18.00 Category: !Womens Snowboarding Hats!
Class IV-V rafting trip in Patagonia this winter
Our annual rafting expedition to Chile’s beautiful Patagonia region is just around the corner.� The “Rio Futaleufu” is a genuinely world-class river.� Challenging rapids, high-volumne water, jaw-dropping scenery………..all that and then you get to come home every night to a wood-fired hot tub, tasy dinners, fabulous local wines, and a comfy bed.� Did I mention [...]
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