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As investors gaze across the "fiscal cliff," some see a better economy on the far side, making stocks and risk assets more appealing and bonds less so in the year ahead.
But there are many caveats to that scenario and some of them will be decided in the next few days as politicians struggle to strike a deal that would avert a fall off the "fiscal cliff." The cliff is the double-barreled blow to the economy from the reversal of dozens of tax breaks and the onset of automatic spending cuts, agreed as a solution to the contentious 2011 debt- ceiling debate.
Congress meets Sunday evening and may consider the latest proposals.
Stocks were spooked in the past week by the lack of movement in discussions between Congress and President Barack Obama. As the market closed Friday, the absence of new developments during talks underway at the White House provided a void for selling. The Dow fell 1.2 percent to 12,938, giving it a loss of 1.9 percent for the week. The S&P 500 fell 1.1 percent to 1402, for a one week loss of 1.9 percent. The Nasdaq lost 2 percent for the week to 2960.
Congressional leaders late Friday left the White House without a deal, setting the stage for a weekend of raw nerves. Obama said he was still optimistic the Senate leadership could come up with a deal that would?pass both houses, but he also laid out a second plan for a straight up-or-down?vote on middle class tax cuts if they can't reach an agreement.
The president repeated that strategy in an exclusive interview on NBC's "Meet the Press" Sunday in which he scolded House Republicans for not having come to an agreement sooner.
"They say that their biggest priority is making sure that we deal with the deficit in a serious way, but the way they're behaving is that their only priority is making sure that tax breaks for the wealthiest Americans are protected," Obama said. "That seems to be their only overriding, unifying theme."
Obama said if Congress failed to agree on a deal and if the straight up-or-down vote was blocked, the first bill introduced in the new year would propose a cut in taxes for the?middle class.?
"Now I think that over the next 48 hours, my hope is that people recognize that, regardless of partisan differences, our top priority has to be to make sure that taxes on middle-class families do not go up. That would hurt our economy badly," Obama said.?
He warned that if there was?no deal by Jan. 1, it could hurt financial markets.?
"What's been holding us back is the dysfunction here in Washington," he said. "And if people start seeing that on January 1st this problem still hasn't been solved, that we haven't seen the kind of deficit reduction that we could have had had the Republicans been willing to take the deal that I gave them, if they say that people's taxes have gone up, which means consumer spending is going to be depressed, then obviously that's going to have an adverse reaction in the markets."
House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) dismissed the president's criticism, and pointed the finger of blame at Obama.
"Republicans made every effort to reach the 'balanced' deficit agreement that the president promised the American people, while the president has continued to insist on a package skewed dramatically in favor of higher taxes that would destroy jobs," Boehner said in a statement reacting to the 'Meet the Press' interview.
"We've been reasonable and responsible. The president is the one who has never been able to get to 'yes,'" Boehner said.?
Obama: GOP's insistence on halting tax hikes for the wealthy is blocking 'cliff' deal
Stock futures fell sharply after the market closed Friday.?
"You could tell a lot of people were very skittish about their trades," said Patrick Kernan of Cardinal Capital. "Everybody is fearful of what exposure they have right now. Right now, we're thinking if they reach a deal we go back to around where we were a week ago, right around 1440" on the S&P 500. If there's no deal, "we think it goes down 30 to 50 points."
Kernan, who trades S&P 500 options, said the market was swarmed by investors seeking portfolio protection Friday.?
"The other side of this thing from an investment standpoint, is if there's a deal, I don't know what the number is but is it a five-percent rally from here? Is it a three-percent rally?" said?said James Paulsen, chief investment strategist at Wells Capital Management.? "There's risk on both sides of the trade, and I think that's been helping keep this reaction more muted than it otherwise might be."
"The cliff isn't December 31. The real cliff is somewhere down the line when the tax bite and spending cuts start to hurt," he said. "The most optimistic agreement was not that we got this done before the deadline.The most optimistic was we get it done right on deadline, and I think it was fully expected it would get really ugly right before that?the other reality is if it doesn't get done until mid-January it's not going to hurt anything."
Paulsen said the market's anxiety will increase the longer it goes on. "If we go over, the market reaction will start to build?I don't think it will fall apart if we go over. I think if we start to get to the second half of January, I think they'll get way more concerned."
Wait, There's More
Besides the action on Capitol Hill, there is the December employment report Friday and some other key data to look forward to in the week ahead. That includes Thursday's December car sales and chain-store sales and Wednesday's ISM manufacturing data. The minutes of the Fed's last meeting are also expected Wednesday afternoon.
But the outcome of the cliff discussion and congressional votes will be what drives markets in the week and months ahead, and what will ultimately decide whether the U.S. can be a driver of the global economy or a drag on it in 2013.
"I don't think the story is over yet," said Citigroup economist Steven Wieting. "We all expected agony . It just seems we keep adding to it."
"There's compromise that's needed and now seemed like a good time, but they already let the window substantially pass. The opportunity to have a really big framework has passed," Wieting added.
He?described a another possible scenario. "They're going to completely leave the debt ceiling out of this, and they're going to leave any signs of structural reform out of this. Then we have a deal that includes future cliff dates. That would leave uncertainty in play."
Yet, analysts and economists also see a possible optimistic outcome, where the cliff is fixed, at least in part, either by New Year's or several days later, and the debt ceiling and remaining issues are dealt with in the first part of the year. If that's the case, it might unleash economic growth, as consumer and business confidence improve.
"I think the global economy is going to surprise on the upside," said Ed Keon, portfolio manager with Quantitative Management Associates. Keon believes Congress will make a deal to avoid the cliff, and he sees gains in the U.S. economy as well as improvement in the European debt crisis and a pickup in the emerging world. "I think in the European situation, time is on our side and everyday things look a little better."
He also sees the U.S. ending the year with stronger growth. "It's hard to believe Washington would want to hurt the economy with malice of foresight," he said. "Doing a small deal will be viewed that they might be able to do a bigger deal."
Kind of a Small Deal
"We'll get a deal," said Steven Stanley, chief economist at Pierpont Securities. "It will be a small deal that will address some of the more onerous aspects of the cliff. Tax rates, they're going to have to address the AMT, and they're going to have to do something with sequestration cuts,?either delay them or rejigger them. I think they'll probably do something on state and dividend tax rates, the Medicare doc fix and they'll probably extend the unemployment benefits."
It's the bigger deal, on the debt ceiling, that will be most difficult and most important in terms of the longer term strength of the economy. Treasury secretary Tim Geithner warned this past week that the U.S. will reach the debt ceiling limit Monday, but that the Treasury can make some adjustments to keep the government funded for a couple months while Congress works out a deal. The hope is that Congress would find a way to deal with bigger tax reform and entitlement spending issues as part of that debate.
Forget the 'fiscal cliff," the debt ceiling is much scarier
Avoiding the cliff, even with scaled back tax increases,?will not leave the economy unscathed but it should not trigger the recession expected if the cliff were hit. "Basically if we let the payroll tax expire it's going to blunt consumer spending in the beginning of the year, even if we know about it," Stanley said. "The upper income tax increases are not a free lunch either. It's substantially lower than the full cliff."
One of the most public points of contention is at what income level, Bush-era tax cuts are reversed. Both Republicans and Democrats agree tax rates should remain the same for 98 percent of taxpayers, but the disagreement is over taxing the rich and that's what the Senate leadership will have to tackle this weekend.
Obama did not specify on "Meet the Press" which income level he would accept. He has consistently promoted $250,000 as the dividing line between those who would continue to benefit from Bush-era tax cuts and those who would see their taxes increase. But the figure has been a bargaining chip in the negotiations.
The economy could handle that and move on, Wieting said. "If it's a fiscal tightening between 1 and 1.5 percent of GDP, the economy would absorb that in a discrete way and probably move on to stronger growth in the second half of the year. It could be better. It could be clearer. It could be sooner," he said.?
Wieting said, however, the more unresolved issues and pushed-out deadlines there are, the worse it will be for the economy because business spending would remain constrained.
Here's what happens to you if we go over the fiscal cliff
Wieting expects growth in the beginning of the year of about 1 percent, and assuming a resolution of the cliff and debt ceiling issues,?growth could accelerate to 3 percent by the end of the year.
The economic data this week should continue to show the same slow growth in employment, but possibly stronger auto sales and improved manufacturing. Economic data, particularly housing-related data, has been largely better than expected.
Stanley expects the December nonfarm payrolls to be about the same as November's 146,000. "I have 150,000 but that includes a couple of special factors that I think will push the number up a little bit," said Stanley. One of those factors is the addition of couriers, temporarily hired to deliver holiday gifts. Last year, that category gained 40,000 in December, and lost the same amount in January, he said.
The week's economic events:
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday?
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Here is how to find the best deals on used boats for sale:
Score numerous Deals before making a decision: Before you decide on any boat to purchase, you have to look at numerous deals to make an educated decision. This is because you will get a better idea for the price range of used boats. Once you have a better idea about the price range, you will be able to make a more educated decision. Understanding the price range is critical because otherwise, you can overpay by hundreds of dollars.
Off-season: The off-season is a great time to purchase a used Tiara boat. In general, a good time to purchase anything is during the off season because the demand is much lower. It will also teach you the power of delayed gratification.
Beware Of Impulse Buying: Unless you have done the proper research beforehand, it is never a good idea to purchase a boat until you know enough about it. Impulse buying leads to huge mistakes and wasted money. You want to be thorough and know that you are making the best decision.
Attend As Many Boat Shows As Possible: Boat shows give you a great opportunity. Oftentimes, used boats will come at large discounts at boat shows. As always, be sure to take a look at the boat and its features before deciding on anything. This will ensure that you get what you want.
Wait until the Last Day of the Boat Show: The reason for this is because it almost guarantees that you can barter a better deal. A used carver boat seller would much rather sell their boat for something than not sell their boat at all. This is why you can almost always get them to lower their price tag at the final day. The chances for making a sale are running out.
Finding the best deals on used boats in San Diego comes down to waiting and watching. Patience is a virtue, but knowing when to move in is important also. You do not want to buy right away because you cannot see where the best deals are. You have to take the time to train your sales eye, and soon you will be able to spot a good deal.
About the Author:
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Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/How-To-Find-The-Best-Deals-On-Used-Boats-For-Sale/4355084
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If you look behind the often dire headlines and examine the long-term trends, you'll see that crime is falling, lifespans are increasing, and poverty is ebbing. In other words, there's solid evidence for hope.
Schoolboys play in the yard of a primary school in Nyumbani, Kenya, established for aids orphans.
Ben Curtis/AP
EnlargeThere's much more good news than bad news. But bad news travels fast and commands attention. Good news is like water carving a valley or a tree gradually extending its branches. Good news is a child learning a little more each day or a business quietly prospering. We hardly notice it.
Skip to next paragraph John YemmaEditor, The Christian Science Monitor
John Yemma is Editor of The Christian Science Monitor, which publishes international news and analysis at?CSMonitor.com, in the?Monitor Weekly?newsmagazine, and in an email-delivered?Daily News Briefing. He can be reached at editor@csmonitor.com.
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Examine the data over time, and you'l find irrefutable evidence of progress: the decline of war and violent crime, the increase in life spans; the spread of literacy, democracy, and equal rights; the waning of privilege based on race, gender, heredity, beliefs (Jina Moore and a team of Monitor writers say this much more specifically in our cover story: "Progress Watch 2012").
Every so often there are vivid scenes of good news -- Neil Armstrong bouncing onto the moon, revelers atop the Berlin Wall, Nelson Mandela walking out of Robben Island prison. But most of the time good news is incremental, which causes it to be taken for granted.
Not bad news. When we hear it, we sit up and ask, "What just happened?" Bad news can make us beat our fists on the table and ask where was God and how can such a terrible thing happen. Bad news is mesmerizing. We can't look away from a collapsing high-rise or an inundated coastal town. We know the meaning of a sidewalk filled with flowers and teddy bears.
Bad news is insistent. In fairness, bad news isn't all bad. It can alert us to problems that need to be addressed. But in the grand scheme of things, there's actually not that much of it . Oh, there's always enough for a front page or a?Web bulletin or a nightly newscast, although sometimes reporters have to travel to the ends of the earth to find it. Bad news has a natural advantage, however. It pulses through humanity's central nervous system -- word of mouth, the media, the Internet. Its images are riveting and its stories are dramatic. It floods the zone.
And when there's a shortage of bad news in the present, we can always turn to the future. Welcome to worry, dread, and pessimism. Sure, things seem OK now, but just over the horizon a disaster is brewing. Don't be a sap. Bad things are on the way.
They probably are. And they'll shock us and again make us wonder if life is out of control. But in this last issue of our news magazine for 202, we're looking in the rearview mirror to see how things are going, and we're finding plenty of reason for hope.
Hope helps. It keeps us going in bleak times and amid disheartening news. But hope has much more credibility when we can point to the reason for it. Asserting that we should all cheer up is sweet. Knowing why is powerful.
Here are some reasons for hope: Extreme poverty is declining. HIV is no longer a death sentence. Technology is transforming everything from African agriculture to urban transportation. Drug violence is decreasing in Mexico. Travel is safer almost everywhere. Crime rates are falling. Somalia is emerging from a long night of anarchy. Myanmar (Burma) is coming out of its dictatorial shell. And while it's true that China and Russia are only semi-free and the Egypt and other post-dictator nations may be going down ill-considered paths, water is still carving the valley. Freedom lives in 7 billion hearts.
Bad news will make headlines in 2013. But good news will quietly rule.
?John Yemma is editor of the Monitor. He can be reached at editor@csmonitor.com.
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In this image provided by the New York City Police Department, a composite sketch showing the woman believed to have pushed a man to his death in front of a subway train on Thursday, Dec. 27, 2012 is shown. Police arrested Erica Menendez on Saturday, Dec. 29, 2012, after a passer-by on a street noticed she resembled the woman seen in a surveillance video. The attack was the second time this month that a man was pushed to his death in a city subway station. (AP Photo/New York City Police Department)
In this image provided by the New York City Police Department, a composite sketch showing the woman believed to have pushed a man to his death in front of a subway train on Thursday, Dec. 27, 2012 is shown. Police arrested Erica Menendez on Saturday, Dec. 29, 2012, after a passer-by on a street noticed she resembled the woman seen in a surveillance video. The attack was the second time this month that a man was pushed to his death in a city subway station. (AP Photo/New York City Police Department)
Commuters walk on the platform as a train enters the 40th St-Lowry St Station, where a man was killed after being pushed onto the subway tracks, in the Queens section of New York, Friday, Dec. 28, 2012. Police are searching for a woman suspected of pushing the man and released surveillance video Friday of her running away from the station. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
Commuters watch as a train enters the 40th St-Lowry St Station, where a man was killed after being pushed onto the subway tracks, in the Queens section of New York, Friday, Dec. 28, 2012. Police are searching for a woman suspected of pushing the man and released surveillance video Friday of her running away from the station.(AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
Commuters wait on the platform as a train passes through the 40th St-Lowry St Station, where a man was killed after being pushed onto the subway tracks, in the Queens section of New York, Friday, Dec. 28, 2012. Police are searching for a woman suspected of pushing the man and released surveillance video Friday of her running away from the station. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
NEW YORK (AP) ? A woman suspected in the death of an immigrant who was pushed off a New York City subway platform has been ordered to undergo a psychiatric evaluation.
Erika Menendez, 31, was arraigned Saturday night on a charge of murder as a hate crime. She had told police she has hated Muslims since Sept. 11 and thought the victim was one. Judge Gia Morris ordered that Menendez be held without bail and be given a mental health exam.
Menendez is charged in the death of Sunando Sen, who was crushed by a train in Queens on Thursday night. Friends and co-workers said Sen, a 46-year-old Indian immigrant, was Hindu.
"I pushed a Muslim off the train tracks because I hate Hindus and Muslims ever since 2001 when they put down the twin towers I've been beating them up," Menendez told police, according to the district attorney's office.
"The defendant is accused of committing what is every subway commuter's worst nightmare," Queens District Attorney Richard Brown said.
Menendez was incoherent at her arraignment in Queens criminal court, at one point laughing so hard that the judge told her defense lawyer, "You're going to have to have your client stop laughing."
Menendez admitted shoving Sen, who was pushed from behind, authorities said. She was arrested after a tip by a passer-by who saw her on a street and thought she looked like the woman in a surveillance video released by police.
A call to Menendez's attorney was not immediately returned Sunday.
Sen was the second man to die after being pushed in front of a New York City subway train this month. Ki-Suck Han was killed in a midtown Manhattan subway station on Dec. 3. A photo of Han clinging to the edge of the platform a split second before he was struck by a train was published on the front page of the New York Post, causing an uproar about whether the photographer, who was catching a train, or anyone else should have tried to help him.
A homeless man was arrested and charged with murder in that case and is awaiting trial. He claimed he acted in self-defense.
It's unclear whether anyone tried, or could have tried, to help Sen on Thursday.
Mayor Michael Bloomberg urged residents Friday to keep Sen's death in perspective as he touted new historic lows in the city's annual homicide and shooting totals.
"It's a very tragic case, but what we want to focus on today is the overall safety in New York," Bloomberg told reporters following a police academy graduation.
But commuters still expressed concern over subway safety and shock about the arrest of Menendez on a hate crime charge.
"For someone to do something like that ... that's not the way we are made," said David Green, who was waiting for a train in Manhattan. "She needs help."
Green said he caught himself leaning over the subway platform's edge and realized maybe he shouldn't do that.
"It does make you more conscious," he said of the deaths.
Such subway deaths are rare, but other high-profile cases include the 1999 fatal shoving of aspiring screenwriter Kendra Webdale by a former psychiatric patient. That case led to a state law allowing for more supervision of mentally ill people living outside institutions.
___
Associated Press writer Karen Matthews contributed to this report.
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The Houston Texans aren't scaring anyone as they entering the 2013 NFL playoffs.
After being in control atop the AFC for much of the season, the Texans flopped in three of their last four games. So, instead of finishing 13-3 or 14-2 and locking up home-field advantage, the Texans slipped to 12-4. Dan Wetzel of Yahoo! Sports? writes:
Just about every sudden weakness of the Texans was on display here Sunday. The offense, despite boasting Adrian Foster, suddenly can't score.
Defensively Houston gave up big plays, couldn't get off the field on third down and lost the time-of-possession battle. In need of a late game stop to give Schaub another chance to rally, Houston instead allowed a 9:46 game-ending drive, with the Colts in victory formation rather than running up the score.
Interestingly enough, it has been the most crucial of games throughout the season in which Houston has continued to fail.
The first happened in a prime time Sunday Night Football matchup when hosting the Green Bay Packers. Aaron Rodgers and Co. were a mere 2-3 when this Week 6 game kicked off. Well, the Packers bulldozed Houston, 42-24, and exploited the Texans pass defense.
Fast forward to Week 11, and we nearly saw Chad Henne and the Jacksonville Jaguars pull off the divisional road upset. Fortunately for Houston, that wasn't a big game and the Jaguars aren't any good.
Immediately after dodging a colossal upset, Houston edged past the Detroit Lions on Thanksgiving Day. This time, much like when facing Green Bay, the Texans got sliced by a strong passing offense against Matthew Stafford, as the Lions amassed 525 total yards and once again exposed Houston's weakness: pass defense.
The surprising result from all this entering Week 13 was Jacksonville dicing up on the level of Green Bay and Detroit. After getting a better victory over the Titans, Houston was in another prime-time matchup in Week 14 on MNF.
On the road against the New England Patriots, this was expected to be a potential AFC championship preview. Instead, Tom Brady and the Pats steamrolled the Texans, 42-14. Once again, Houston failed miserably against the pass, and it came courtesy of an elite quarterback.
In Week 17, the Texans didn't give up a tremendous number of passing yards, but it was big plays across the board that cost Gary Kubiak's squad. The Indianapolis Colts returned a kickoff back for a score and got a huge pitch-and-catch from Andrew Luck and T.Y. Hilton for 70 yards in the fourth quarter.
Not to mention, Luck tossed for two scores and was sacked just once without throwing a pick in Indy's 28-16 victory.
Matt Schaub on the flip side, got sacked four times and threw two interceptions (no touchdowns). The result of this game simply echoed Houston's performances when facing a key game. From Randy Harvey of the Houston Chronicle:
Schaub might have joined Manning and Brady as AFC Pro Bowl quarterbacks this season, but, unlike them, he has yet to prove he can win a big game.
The Texans designated Schaub as the offensive leader when they gave him a four-year contract extension at the beginning of the season and the last month was the time for him to prove he deserved it. He has responded with one touchdown pass in the last 19 quarters.
As opposed to taking that next step and emerging as an elite team, the Texans have dropped. The defense also gave up 27 touchdown passes this season and recorded just 15 interceptions. Factor in an offense that's not high-powered, and teams such as the Patriots and Denver Broncos will outscore them?especially if Houston cannot generate turnovers.
The playoffs will just be an extension of the Texans' regular-season identity, because January is only tougher than November and December.
?
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Teens
Red Cross Babysitting Course (ages 12+)
Saturday, Jan. 26, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
$75; $70 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
Inclusion
Buddy Art (youth ages 7+ with special needs), Free!
Saturdays, Jan. 26, Feb. 2, 16 & 23, March 16 & 23, 3-4 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Co-sponsor: This Century Art Gallery.
Wheelchair Basketball Tournament
Saturday & Sunday, Jan. 12, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. & Jan. 13, 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Open to those with physical challenges residing in the Hampton Roads area. VA Sun Wheelers helps participants to develop self esteem, experience competitive sports and to offer an environment of health and fitness at the highest level. Host: James City County. For more information, call 757-259-5354 or email president@sunwheelers.org.Youth/Teens
Get Taken for a Ride (ages 7+)
Monday, Jan. 21, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 26, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Stonehouse Stables, 2116-A Forge Rd.
$65/session; $60 for JC/W residents
Aviation Winter Camp (ages 9-13)
Saturdays, Jan. 12-Feb. 9, 9 a.m.-noon
$50
James City County Recreation Center
Want to learn about flying a plane? Get introduced to aerodynamics, airplane controls and design and explore the forces that act upon an airplane in flight. Field trips include a visit to a local airport to board the cockpit of a Cessna as well as take a trip to an aerospace museum. Fee includes all materials, a T-shirt and snacks. For more information or to register, email yaef@cox.net or call 757-369-5004.Mixed Media Art Journaling (ages 14-18)
Wednesdays, Jan. 16 - March 20, 6-8 p.m.
$60; $55 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
Adults
Bellydance Costume Workshop Series: Making and fitting bellydance belts and hip scarves (ages 13+)
Saturday, Jan. 19, 1-4 p.m.
$25; $20 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
Join us as we learn how to make and decorate various pieces of the bellydance costume. Bring a measuring tape, scissors, notebook and pencil. No sewing experience needed. Three sessions, each class is independent of the others ? take one or all three!Making and fitting bellydance skirts and tops - Feb. 2 and Decorating and embellishing - Feb. 16. Info: jamescitycountyva.gov/Pottery (ages 16+)
Four sessions offered:
Mondays, Jan. 7-March 25, 10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Mondays, Jan. 7-March 25, 6-8:30 p.m.
Tuesdays, Jan. 8-March 26, 9:30 a.m. - noon
Tuesdays, Jan. 8-March 26, 6-8:30 p.m.
$125/session; $120 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
Learn to turn raw clay into finished forms. Both hand building and the potter?s wheel explored. Appropriate for students of any experience level. $20 due to instructor during first class for one bag of clay and glazes. Additional clay is $20/bag. Info:jamescitycountyva.gov/Open Studio Time (ages 16+)
Fridays, Jan. 11-March 29, 6-8 p.m.
Sundays, Jan. 13-March 31, 2-4 p.m.
Variety of classes offered from $10-$45/session
James City County Recreation Center
Practice can make the difference in how you progress in pottery. Uninstructed, this open studio time allows students to continue to work on pieces begun in class. Must be enrolled in current adult pottery class to register. No access to the kiln. Info:jamescitycountyva.gov/Oil Painting (ages 16+)
Three sessions offered:
Tuesdays, Jan. 8-March 26, 1-3 p.m.
Wednesdays, Jan. 9-March 27, 10 a.m.-noon
Wednesdays, Jan. 9-March 27, 6-8 p.m.
$125/session; $120 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
Create your own masterpiece! For students with experience painting in oils. Provide own supplies, call 757-220-3755 for list. Info: jamescitycountyva.gov/Basic Drawing & Pastels (ages 16+)
Wednesdays, Jan. 9-March 27, 1-3 p.m.
$125; $120 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
Learn the basics of drawing or brush up on those skills you haven?t used in years. Learn the basics of drawing the human figure and how to use pastels to create portraits and landscapes. Provide own supplies, for the list call 757-220-3755. Info: jamescitycountyva.gov/Beginning Oil Painting (ages 16+)
Thursdays, Jan. 10-March 28, 1-3 p.m.
$125; $120 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
If you?ve never picked up a brush or you want to brush up on the basics, this is the class for you. Provide own supplies, for the list call 757-220-3755. Info: jamescitycountyva.gov/Watercolor Painting (ages 16+), New!
Beginner Sessions:
Thursdays, Jan. 10-Feb. 7, 6-8:30 p.m.
Fridays, Jan. 11-Feb. 8, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Intermediate Sessions:
Fridays, Jan. 11-Feb. 8, 1-3:30 p.m.
$85/session; $80 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
Learn composition, basic drawing skills, and watercolor techniques to create your painting. Work at your own pace aided by individual instruction. Provide own supplies, for list call 757-259-7332. Info: jamescitycountyva.gov/Expressive Soul Painting (ages 16+)
Saturdays, Jan. 12-Feb. 16, 9:30 a.m.-noon
$95; $90 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
Learn to create expressive and soulful paintings freely and uninhibited using a variety of mediums and surfaces. Provide own supplies, for list call 757-849-3294. Info: jamescitycountyva.gov/Learn to Crochet (ages 16+)
Thursdays, Jan. 24-Feb. 28, 6-7 p.m.
$30; $25 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
Learn how to do a basic chain, double crochet and single crochet stitch while creating the project of choice. Bring your favorite color yarn and size G, H or I needle. Info: jamescitycountyva.gov/Getting Started with Watercolor (ages 16+), New!
Monday, Jan. 28, 10 a.m.-noon
$25; $20 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
Materials (paints, brushes and papers) and methods (tea washes to fine details) will be shared and demonstrated whether you wish to paint impressionistically or realistically. All materials provided. Info: jamescitycountyva.gov/Sports and Athletics
Tot Shots (ages 3-5)
Wednesdays, Jan. 9-30, 10-10:45 a.m.
$30; $25 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
Tumble Tots (ages 3-5)
Saturdays, Jan. 12-Feb. 2, 10-10:45 a.m.
$30; $25 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
Half Pint & Full Pint Soccer (ages 3-9)
All sessions $45; $40 for JC/W residents
James River Community Center
Half Pint (ages 3-5): Saturdays, Jan. 12-Feb. 16, 1:30-2:15 p.m.
Full Pint (ages 6-9): Saturdays, Jan. 12-Feb. 16, 2:30-3:15 p.m.
Multi-Sport Minis (ages 3-9 years)
All sessions $45; $40 for JC/W residents
James River Community Center
Minis (ages 3-5): Saturdays, Jan. 12-Feb. 16, 3:30-4:15 p.m.
Majors (ages 6-9): Saturdays, Jan. 12-Feb. 16, 4:30-5:15 p.m.
Learn the basics of soccer, T-ball and basketball taught through games, drills and relays in a fun and safe atmosphere. Info: jamescitycountyva.gov/Indoor Tennis (ages 5-8), New
Wednesdays, Jan. 9-30, 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
$30; $25 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
Stance, ball control, hitting and rules of the game are taught in this introductory class! Racquets provided, but please bring your own if you have one. Info: jamescitycountyva.gov/Dance
Bellydance FUNdamentals (ages 13+)
Mondays, Jan. 7-28, 7-8 p.m.
$30; $25 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
In each session we?ll learn a new set of techniques and concepts that work together to create this unique style of dance! No dance experience needed. Info: jamescitycountyva.gov/Beyond Beginners Bellydance! (ages 13+)
Thursdays, Jan. 3-Feb. 7, 7-8 p.m.
$40; $35 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
Time to put those bellydance steps you?ve learned to good use! We?ll work our way through a new choreography in each session! Info: jamescitycountyva.gov/Health/Wellness/Fitness
Pilates Workshop, Free!
Saturday, Jan. 12, 2-3:30 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Learn about the the history and methodology of the original work of Joseph H. Pilates. Through exercises, modifications, body alignment and breathing techniques we?ll improve your overall health through Pilates. Please pre-register at jamescitycountyva.gov/Evening Fitness Classes
James City County Recreation Center
Evening classes include Kickboxing, Zumba, Power Yoga, Cardio Tap dancing and Strength Training. Included in wristband purchase; facility pass not required. Child care is available on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5-8 p.m. Info: jamescitycountyva.gov/SilverSneakers? CardioFit (ages 55+)
Wednesdays, beginning Jan. 9, 11:30 a.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Get Up and Go with an aerobic class for you - safe, heart healthy and gentle on the joints. Easy to follow, low-impact movement and upper body strength, abdominal conditioning, stretching and relaxation exercises designed to energize your active lifestyle. Included in wristband purchase; facility pass not required. Info: jamescitycountyva.gov/Evening Kettlebell Classes (ages 13+)
Mondays and Wednesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Get a full body, functional workout in just 60 minutes! Qualified, safe instruction from Gail Peck. Included in wristband purchase; facility pass not required. Info: jamescitycountyva.gov/Aquatics
Learn To Swim ProgramsOpen registration held Jan. 2-11. After you have successfully passed a class, you can register for the next level during this two-week open registration period. If you?re unsure of your or your child?s swimming needs or level, attend one of the FREE swim evaluations on Tuesday, Jan. 8 or Wednesday, Jan. 9, 4:30-6:30 p.m. at the James City County Recreation Center. For the complete list of aquatic programs and classes, visit jamescitycountyva.gov/Source: http://williamsburgfamiliessports.blogspot.com/2012/12/jcc-parks-and-recreation-january.html
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Google and its Android operating system for smartphones and tablets is claiming a victory over rival Apple, as computer software designers responsible for making iPhone and iPad apps are switching their allegiance. To date, Apple devices have had a huge advantage over rival smartphones because they offer many more sophisticated apps such as games and business tools.?
However, this head start is being eroded as devices running the Google Android software now have access to a growing and increasingly impressive library of downloads, the Daily Mail reports. According to the paper, the Google software is running on three out of every four smartphones and tablets sold ahead of Christmas, which has created a huge and growing market for App developers.
In November, Apple had about 700,000 available Apps, which is about the same number as those available from Google's Android App store. In September, Google announced that 25billion Apps had been downloaded to Android devices, while Apple hit 35 billion in October, the paper said. Tens of millions more have been downloaded since Christmas day when people around the globe activated new smartphones and tablets, it added. -ANI
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Now you're shopping for yourself? Here's how to make it good.
Now that Christmas is over, and you've already found the perfect present for your loved ones, it's time to get down to the next order of gift-giving business: Tackling all of those gift cards.
Here's how to get the most bang for your buck for treating yourself, whether you have money toward Amazon or Walmart.?
More from YourTango: Is A Bad Credit Score The New STD?
1.?American Express
It's easy to spend this extra cash on food, drinks and cab rides, but why not treat yourself to something special ? something that will last all year long? Put your Amex gift card toward?Spicy Subscriptions,?a monthly service that sends an assortment of romance and intimacy products. Not only will it heat things up for you and your partner each month, but you never even have to set foot in an adult store. From personal toys to oils, the Spice Box is the flirty gift that keeps on giving. Try the Premium Spice Box for $20.95/month or the Deluxe Spice Box?for?$34.95/month.
More from YourTango: Matchmaking Tips: How to Set Up Your Friends
2. Amazon
There's no better time to get yourself expensive beauty products than during the holidays ? and with an Amazon gift card they don't even have to be expensive. During it's year-end sale, Amazon is selling it's beauty products for 10% to 75% off. ?That means Burberry perfume, Chanel lipstick and more for affordable prices. StriVectin Deep Wrinkle Serum for?$35? Yes, please.
3. Starbucks
Ever feel like your Starbucks gift card isn't put to good use when all you can get out of it is a few drinks? This year, become your own barista and purchase your favorite syrups and sauces to make your own delicious drinks. You can even buy their seasonal items and serve up Peppermint Mochas long after Starbucks stops making them. Keep reading ...
Source: http://www.yourtango.com/2012169218/post-christmas-shopping-how-spend-your-gift-cards
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A huge, colorful shellfish reef discovered off Scotland's west coast could be the largest of its kind in the world, according to the Scottish government.
Packing at least 100 million bright-orange shells into 4.5 square miles (7.5 square kilometers), the living reef consists of flame shells, a rare saltwater clam found near Scotland. Neon-orange tentacles emerge from between the clam's paired shells, waving gently in the current.
The flame shell reef is located in Loch Alsh, a sea inlet between the Isle of Skye and the Scottish mainland. The overall population of flame shells in the inlet is likely to exceed 100 million and is the largest known flame shell reef anywhere in the United Kingdom, the Scottish government said in a statement.
"This important discovery may be the largest grouping of flame shells anywhere in the world," Scottish Environment Secretary Richard Lochhead said in the statement. "And not only are flame shells beautiful to look at, these enigmatic shellfish form a reef that offers a safe and productive environment for many other species."
Flame shells (Limaria hians) build 'nests' by binding gravel and shells together with thin, wiry threads. The shellfish are around 1.5 inches (4 centimeters) in length and group together in such numbers that they cover the seabed with a felt-like organic reef of nest material several inches thick. Flame shell beds are found in only eight sites in Scottish waters.
"There were some records of flame shells in Loch Alsh, but scientists had no idea of the bed's true size," said Ben James, marine survey and monitoring manager at Scottish Natural Heritage.
Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh carried out the Loch Alsh survey on behalf of Marine Scotland.
"Too often, when we go out to check earlier records of a particular species or habitat, we find them damaged, struggling or even gone," said Dan Harries, a marine ecologist with the university's school of life sciences. "We are delighted that, in this instance, we found not just occasional patches, but a huge and thriving flame shell community extending right the way along the entrance narrows of Loch Alsh. This is a wonderful discovery for all concerned."
The Loch Alsh inlet was surveyed as part of a program to identify new Marine Protected Areas, which help defend marine habitat. The reef's discovery strengthens the case for proposing the inlet as a protected area, said Calum Duncan, Scotland program manager for the Marine Conservation Society.
Reach Becky Oskin at boskin@techmedianetwork.com. Follow her on Twitter @beckyoskin. Follow OurAmazingPlanet on Twitter?@OAPlanet. We're also on?Facebook?and Google+.
Copyright 2012 OurAmazingPlanet, a TechMediaNetwork company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.Source: http://news.yahoo.com/flaming-orange-shellfish-reef-found-scotland-144605566.html
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CHICAGO (Reuters) - The FBI is still searching for one of two convicted bank robbers who escaped last week from a high-rise jail in downtown Chicago by lowering themselves on a makeshift rope nearly 20 stories to the street. Kenneth Conley, 38, and his cellmate, Joseph Jose Banks, 37, escaped from the Metropolitan Correctional Center early on the morning of December 18. The pair apparently broke a window in the cell they shared, squeezed through the opening and lowered themselves to the street. They then hailed a cab to make their getaway. ...
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NEW DELHI (AP) ? Indian police charged six men with murder on Saturday, adding to accusations that they beat and gang-raped a woman on a New Delhi bus nearly two weeks ago in a case that shocked the country.
The murder charges were laid after the woman died earlier Saturday in a Singapore hospital where she has been flown for treatment.
New Delhi police spokesman Rajan Bhagat said the six face the death penalty if convicted, in case that has triggered protests across India for greater protection for women from sexual violence, and raised questions about lax attitudes by police toward sexual crimes.
The tragedy has forced India to confront the reality that sexually assaulted women are often blamed for the crime, forcing them to keep quiet and discouraging them from reporting it to authorities for fear of exposing their families to ridicule. Police often refuse to accept complaints from those who are courageous enough to report the rapes, and the rare prosecutions that reach courts drag on for years.
Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said he was aware of the emotions the attack has stirred, adding it was up to all Indians to ensure that the young woman's death will not have been in vain.
The victim "passed away peacefully" early Saturday at Mount Elizabeth hospital in Singapore with her family and officials of the Indian Embassy by her side, Dr. Kevin Loh, the chief executive of the hospital, said in a statement.
After 10 days at a hospital in New Delhi, the Indian capital, the woman was brought Thursday to Mount Elizabeth, which specializes in multi-organ transplants. Loh said the woman had been in extremely critical condition since Thursday, and by late Friday her condition had taken a turn for the worse, with her vital signs deteriorating.
"Despite all efforts by a team of eight specialists in Mount Elizabeth hospital to keep her stable, her condition continued to deteriorate over these two days," Loh said.
The woman and a male friend, who have not been identified, were on a bus in New Delhi after watching a film on the evening of Dec. 16 when they were attacked by six men who raped her. The men beat the couple and inserted an iron rod into the woman's body, resulting in severe organ damage. Both were then stripped and thrown off the bus, according to police.
As news of the victim's death reached New Delhi, hundreds of policemen sealed off the high-security India Gate area, where the seat of India's government is located, in anticipation of more protests.
The area is home to the president's palace, the prime minister's office and key defense, external affairs and home ministries, and has been the scene of battles between protesters and police for days after the attack.
Police were allowing people to assemble at the Jantar Mantar and Ramlila grounds, the main areas allotted for protests in New Delhi, Bhagat said.
Mourners gathered at Jantar Mantar to express their grief and demand stronger protection for women and the death penalty for rape, which is now punishable by a maximum of life imprisonment. Women face daily harassment across India, ranging from catcalls on the streets, groping and touching in public transport to rape.
They put a wreath studded with white flowers on the road, lit a candle and sat around it in a silent tribute to the young woman. Members of a theatre group nearby played small tambourine and sang songs urging the society to wake up and end discrimination against women.
Dipali, a working woman who uses one name, said the rape victim deserved justice. "I hope it never happens again to any girl," she said.
Dozens of students of Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi marched silently to the bus stop from where the rape victim and her friend had boarded the bus on Dec. 16. They carried placards reading "She is not with us but her story must awaken us."
Sonia Gandhi, the governing Congress party chief, assured the protesters in a statement that the rape victim's death "deepens our determination to battle the pervasive, the shameful social attitudes and mindset that allow men to rape and molest women and girls with such an impunity."
The protesters heckled Sheila Dikshit, the top elected leader of New Delhi state, when she came to express her sympathy with them and forced her to leave the protest venue. They blamed her for the deteriorating law and order situation in the Indian capital.
Meenakshi Ganguly, South Asia director of Human Rights Watch, said the woman's death was a sobering reminder of the widespread sexual violence in India.
"The outrage now should lead to law reform that criminalizes all forms of sexual assault, strengthens mechanisms for implementation and accountability, so that the victims are not blamed and humiliated," Ganguly said.
Prime Minister Singh said he understood the angry reaction to the attack and that he hoped all Indians would work together to make appropriate changes.
"These are perfectly understandable reactions from a young India and an India that genuinely desires change," Singh said in a statement Saturday. "It would be a true homage to her memory if we are able to channel these emotions and energies into a constructive course of action."
Mamta Sharma, head of the state-run National Commission for Women, said the "time has come for strict laws" to stop violence against women. "The society has to change its mindset to end crimes against women," she said.
Indian attitudes toward rape are so entrenched that even politicians and opinion makers have often suggested that women should not go out at night or wear clothes that might be seen provocative.
Separately, authorities in Punjab state took action Thursday when an 18-year-old woman killed herself by drinking poison a month after she told police she was gang-raped.
State authorities suspended one police officer and fired two others on accusations they delayed investigating and taking action in the case. The three accused in the rape were arrested only on Thursday night, a month after the crime was reported.
"This is a very sensitive crime, I have taken it very seriously," said Paramjit Singh Gill, a top police officer in the city of Patiala.
The Press Trust of India reported that the woman was raped Nov. 13 and reported the attack to police Nov. 27. But police harassed the girl, asked her embarrassing questions and took no action against the accused, PTI reported, citing police sources.
___
Associated Press writers Heather Tan and Faris Mokhtar in Singapore and Ravi Nessman in New Delhi contributed to this report.
Source: http://news.yahoo.com/attackers-india-rape-case-face-murder-charge-102033151.html
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Billionaire Enrique Razon Jr.'s Bloomberry Resorts Corporation on Friday said that Global Gaming Philippines LLC has consummated the share purchase option on 921,184,056 ?Bloomberry shares at P1.67 apiece in a special block sale.
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Global Gaming bought the shares from Prime Metroline Holdings Inc. for a total consideration of $15 million, plus a 10 percent seller's cost of investment in a casino hotel. Both are parties to ?a participation agreement... on participation rights in new shares, tag-along and drag-along rights and co-investment rights...? Bloomberry corporate secretary Silverio Benny Tan disclosed to the Philippine Stock Exchange.
?
Global Gaming holds the services management contract to Bloomberry?s $1.2-billion Solaire Manila casino hotel project in Pasay City.
?
Bloomberry is one of four groups with a license to operate in the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation?s ?Entertainment City ? a Las Vegas-style gaming district. The others Andrew Tan?s Alliance Global, Kazuo Okada?s Tiger Resorts, and Henry Sy?s Belle Corp. ? VS, GMA News
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Design and Features
The S46CA-XH51 is a fairly compact system whose chassis measures 1.2 by 13.7 by 9.6 inches (HWD). At 4.35 pounds, it's still easy to carry around even though it veers towards the heavier end of the ultrabook spectrum, outweighing both the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon (2.93 pounds) and the Toshiba Satellite U845-S406 (3.6 pounds).
At any rate, the S46CA-XH51 is unquestionably an attractively designed system. Its aluminum chassis sports a brushed two-tone finish, with an elegant grey palmrest that's complemented by the system's black lid. From a practical perspective, the aluminum construction makes for a durable system that can withstand its share of bumps and bruises when taken on the go.
The S46CA-XH51's raised tile keyboard is outfitted with black chiclet-style keys that create a nice visual contrast to the grey palmrest. The keyboard is surprisingly comfortable to type on since it manages to sidestep the shallow key travel that so often plagues systems with markedly thin profiles. With so much to like about the keyboard, then, its absence of a backlight comes as something of a disappointment since it's an easily avoidable shortcoming that mars an otherwise well-designed keyboard. Likewise, the S46CA-XH51's smooth and responsive touchpad provides a good amount of tactile feedback for two-finger scrolling and pinch-zooming, with left- and right- click buttons that don't exhibit any unappealing clackiness.
With a maximum resolution of 1,366 by 768, the S46CA-XH51's 14.1-inch LED display doesn't reach the soaring 1080P heights of the Lenovo X1 Carbon's display, but its glossy finish and bright colors nonetheless make it easy on the eyes. Bright colors and crisp text alike pop off the screen, and movies look great in 720P resolution. The latter point is especially relevant since the S46CA-XH51 manages to squeeze a DVD burner into its chassis despite its thin profile. This is a rarity in the ultrabook world ? none of the other systems in the S46CA-XH51's class sport such a feature - and even for users that have supposedly sworn off optical media, there's a certain sense of comfort one can derive from knowing that they'll never need to purchase an external drive (assuming, of course, they don't intend on using Blu-rays).
The S46CA-XH51's speakers are housed in a horizontal grille directly beneath the display, and Asus SonicMaster Lite software provides a software-driven boost to make the volume loud enough for a few folks in a small room. Testing these speakers out with "Silent Shout" by the Knife, I was pleased with how loud they belted out sound without sounding tinny, though the subdued levels of bass left something to be desired.
Typical of its ultrabook brethren, port selection on the S46CA-XH51 is a bit skimpy. Like the Toshiba U845-S406 and the Lenovo X1 Carbon, the S46CA-XH51 only features a single USB 3.0 port, which is located on the left side of the system beside an RJ45 port, a VGA port, and a full-size HDMI output. The latter is a good touch since it sidesteps the need to fuss with dongles and the like when connecting the S46CA-XH51 to a larger display. That said, though, the S46CA-XH51 doesn't feature Intel's Wireless Display technology, so be sure to have an HDMI cable ready. Meanwhile, the front side of the S46CA-XH51 features an SD card reader, and the right side houses the S46CA-XH51's tray-loading DVD burner, a pair of USB 2.0 ports, and a headphone/microphone combo jack.
The S46CA-XH51 packs a moderately spacious 500GB 5,400RPM HDD and a 24GB SSD, a one-two punch that delivers storage capacity without compromising quickness since the latter works in the background to help speed up functions like booting, loading frequently used apps, and waking the system from sleep. The 500GB drive comes preloaded with Windows 7 Professional as well as a decent amount of additional software of varying utility. Some of it is useful, like Adobe Reader 10, Microsoft Office 2010 Starter, and a CyberLink burning suite. Additionally, there's also some trialware (McAfee Anti-Virus), a hefty portion of proprietary software (Asus Media Suite, Asus Power4Gear, Asus Vibe 2.0) and, of course, unnecessary bloatware (Bing Bar, Windows Live Essentials). The S46CA-XH51 is covered by a one-year warranty on parts and labor.
Performance
The S46CA-XH51 fared somewhat better on our multimedia tests, where it proved to be a system that, while better suited for multimedia consumption, nevertheless has the capacity for light media creation. It completed our Handbrake video-encoding test in 2 minutes 3 seconds, falling a mere two seconds behind the Sony VAIO T13 (2:01) and only six seconds short of both the Toshiba U845-S406 and the HP XT 13-2050nr (1:57 each). On the other hand, the S46CA-XH51's Cinebench R11.5 score of 2.36 points edged past the Lenovo X1 Carbon (2.25 points) and came within striking distance of both the Toshiba U845-S406 and HP XT 13-2050nr (2.41 points each). Although the 4 minutes 45 seconds it took the S46CA-XH51 to complete our Photoshop CS5 test was not nearly as brisk as the ThinkPad X1 Carbon (4:18), it nonetheless nipped at the heels of the Sony VAIO T13 (4:35) and the HP XT 13-2050nr (4:34).
Similarly, the S46CA-XH51 landed toward the bottom of the pack when it came to 3D rendering. Its 3DMark 06 scores (4,508 points at medium-detail settings and 1,024-by-768 resolution; 2,446 points at native resolution with 4x anti-aliasing) fell short of the Lenovo X1 Carbon (4,560 points and 3,376 points, respectively) and, to a greater extent, both the Toshiba U845-S406 (5,792 points and 3,278 points, respectively) and HP XT 13-2050nr (5,908 points and 3,256 points, respectively).
The S46CA-XH51 sports an integrated Intel HD 4000 GPU, so it came as no surprise that it, too, failed to crack the 30 frames per second (fps) playability barrier in visually demanding 3D games. Its performance in our Crysis benchmark test (18 fps with medium-quality settings) was on equal footing with that of the Lenovo X1 Carbon and the Sony VAIO T13 (18fps, each) and only slightly behind that of the HP XT 13-2050nr (21fps). Similarly, while the S46CA-XH51's performance in our Lost Planet 2 tests (15fps in medium quality, 5fps in high quality) outgunned the Lenovo X1 Carbon (13fps and 5fps, respectively) and was nearly identical with both the Sony VAIO T13 (16fps and 7fps, respectively) and HP XT 13-2050nr (20fps and 10fps, respectively), the distinctions are meaningless since none were able to deliver frame rates that would be considered playable.
The S46CA-XH51's removable 44Whr battery lasted 5 hours 7 minutes on our MobileMark 2007 battery test, which is longer than the Satellite U845-S406 (5:02), although this isn't an entirely reliable point of comparison since the latter's battery life was tested with a video rundown test. At any rate, the S46CA-XH51's battery life was roughly three hours shorter than those of its competitors, with the Sony VAIO T13 (7:09), Lenovo X1 Carbon (7:19), and HP XT 13-2050nr (7:32) each managing to cross the seven-hour mark. If you're a road warrior whose career entails data-crunching on the road, this means that you won't be able to last through an entire workday on a single charge, so if finding an available power outlet strikes you as an unfeasible or unpalatable endeavor, then the S46CA-XH51 may not be your ideal road companion.
There's plenty to like about the Asus S46CA-XH51, including its handsome design, built-in optical drive, and reasonable price. Alas, however, its so-so performance dilutes its potency as a sure-fire portable solution for small businesses. That's why the Lenovo X1 Carbon's higher price tag and status as our Editors' Choice for business ultrabooks both remain justified. If design and affordability outweigh performance on your list, though, it's worth looking into.
BENCHMARK TEST RESULTS:
COMPARISON TABLE
Compare the Asus S46CA-XH51 with several other laptops side by side.
More laptop reviews:
??? Toshiba Satellite P845-S4200
??? Asus VivoBook S400CA-UH51
??? Asus G75VW-DH72
??? Toshiba Satellite U845W-S430
??? Panasonic Toughbook CF-53
?? more
Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/ziffdavis/pcmag/~3/sKp-axpWDHQ/0,2817,2413603,00.asp
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Purchasing real estate related to commercial purposes is a lot different from purchasing a home. Here you will find some effective ideas and tips to help you get started in your commercial real estate project.
If you are trying to choose between two good commercial properties, think big. The difficulty in securing financing doesn?t increase linearly with the size of the building you are buying. Generally, this is much like the principle of buying in bulk; the more units you buy, the lower the price per unit.
Think about the environment around your property. Should a problem with environmental waste ever occur, it is your obligation to properly clean your building and property. Are you considering purchasing a piece of real estate in an area prone to flooding? Think twice. Talk to an environmental assessment agency to learn more about the area where the property is located.
TIP! Engaging in a commercial transaction often takes more time, and is more difficult than simply buying a home. Keep in mind, though, that the complexity is required to ensure that your real estate investment gives you a high return.
One thing that can throw commercial investors for a loop are dramatic changes in interest rates over time. In today?s economic market, interest rates can vary greatly, which puts an investor at risk of losing a great deal of money. Keep this in mind when looking for property, and consider the long term options that you have.
You should always know how to get in touch with emergency maintenance. Be sure to find out who takes care of maintenance in the building and also who handles emergency repair situations. Keep the phone numbers in a convenient place, and know how long it will take them to respond if needed. Work with your landlord to create a contingency plan in the event that an unforeseen disaster occurs; this will allow you to avoid customer service or public relations nightmares.
TIP! Whether you are buying or selling, don?t shy away from negotiation. Make your voice heard and strive for fair market value pricing.
When considering a piece of property, you must pay close attention to the surrounding area. A business located in a well-to-do neighborhood might be more successful, since the potential customers will be able to spend more. Bargain-oriented goods and services will find a more receptive market in lower- to middle-class areas.
Secure appropriate financing before going forward. Commercial property loans and the establishments that finance them are not the same as the world of residential home finance. They are actually superior in a number of ways. Commercial loans general require a large down payment; however, most lenders will allow you to take an additional loan out to cover your down payment.
Before you buy commercial real estate, make sure you have a firm vision of your goal for the property. What are your plans? Do you want to lease or start you own business there? Have clear and specific goals before looking for commercial property. It will save a lot of time and effort with your narrowed-down results.
TIP! If you are viewing more than one property, you may wish to create a checklist for each site. Take initial personal responses, but don?t go further without the property owner knowing.
Before you can start using the property you?ve purchased, you might need to make some improvements. This may be simple changes such as painting or rearranging furniture. Many times, changes include reconfiguring the floor plan by moving walls. You should pre-negotiate the cost of these alterations with the landlord, and try to get them to contribute towards at least part of them.
Size is highly important when you are searching for space for your growing business. You should purchase commercial property which will accommodate expansion in your business, so that you don?t find yourself having to hunt for a larger space again in just a few years.
You should put an ad out for your commercial real estate when it is on sale, do it locally and out of town. It is a mistake to think that only people in the immediate area will have an interest in your property. There are a lot of private investors who like to buy properties that are not in their direct area if they are affordably priced.
TIP! Know your needs before you even start looking for a commercial real estate. List the qualities that concern you most in a property (e.
Look for a broker firm that is honest. Start by asking them about how their money is made. Their answer should be discussed openly. Don?t hire a broker if he can?t adequately explain how helping you with the transaction will benefit his firm. If you don?t understand how the company benefits from transactions, ask questions to clarify the issue.
There are many things to learn about the commercial real estate market. Be certain that you apply the advice from the preceding paragraphs to get fair deals that meet your needs and expectations of the property you deal with.
Source: http://www.maynaseric.com/powerful-commercial-real-estate-tips-that-make-a-difference-3
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