My Desultory Blog

Posted By RichC on November 20, 2012

My Ram Mount iPad car mount has a weak point and I am wondering if I’m alone or if this is a design problem? From what I can tell, the weak point is where the latch makes a 90-degree turn (see photo). Initially it was very tight to snap the roller-latch mechanism to hold the iPad in place, but it has recently become very week.

On closer inspection, there is a noticeable crack appearing and this has me thinking that it might be poor design? Hopefully it is only a defect in a batch of material or has something to do with the colder weather?

I’ve called Ram Mount’s customer service and they asked if I could send a photo for evaluation. 

I’ll update on how they stand behind their product.

The above is a photo from a previous post earlier in the year.

Category: Automotive, Misc, Photos, Tablet, Technology | No Comments »
Tags: broken, ipad, mount, warranty

Posted By RichC on November 20, 2012

Although Honda Civic diesel I commented on will probably remain overseas for the next few years, Audi confirmed that additional diesel models will be added to their U.S. line-up next year (press announcement). 

2014 Model Availability

• A8 TDI Spring 2013
• A7 TDI Fall 2013
• A6 TDI Fall 2013
• Q5 TDI Fall 2013

These new models, along with their current smaller Audi A3 2.0L TDI and larger 3.0L Q7 SUV diesel, will make for nearly a full line up available in diesel. The luxury A8 will come first in the spring, followed by the A7, midsize A6 and small Q5 SUV in diesel. This will bring the efficient and clean TDI diesel power to more vehicle choices and offer great range, engine longevity and top efficiency to American Interstate highways … something hybrids and electric vehicles find challenging.

This is great news for those of us looking for a new diesel power vehicle in the next year or so … and I personally can’t wait to check out the Q5 in diesel, even if I was holding out for the Audi allroad.

Audi to introduce four new TDI® clean diesel models to the U.S. Market at the L.A. Auto Show

• The Audi A8 TDI clean diesel achieves manufacturer estimated fuel efficiency of 24 city/ 36 highway

• New 3.0 liter V6 TDI clean diesel models will include the Audi A8, A7, A6, Q5 and an updated Q7 TDI

• Audi to use #FuelForThought at the LA Auto Show to create a social media experience at the display and online

Audi of America announces the arrival of the new TDI® clean diesel models for the Audi A8, A7, A6 and Q5 to debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The addition of these four models marks the first time Audi will feature a full lineup of TDI clean diesel vehicles in the U.S. as they join the updated Q7 model. Each TDI vehicle delivers up to 30% better fuel economy and 30% lower carbon dioxide emissions than gasoline engines*, resulting in longer range and fewer trips to the fuel pump. By having more density than gasoline, diesel packs more energy content in the same amount of fuel, which helps maximize the miles per gallon when that energy is released during a more powerful combustion cycle.

 

The TDI clean diesel engine lineup adds to Audi’s list of advanced technologies that help enhance fuel efficiency, including Audi ultra® lightweight technology, such as the use of aluminum, and the AFS® frame technology.

“Owners of Audi TDI engines have helped save over 4 million gallons of gasoline, or the equivalent of more than 240,000 barrels of foreign oil, since the introduction of Audi TDI to the U.S. in 2009**,” said Scott Keogh, President, Audi of America. ” And, TDI technology delivers better fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance.”

In order to fuel the conversation surrounding the benefits of TDI technology in the U.S., Audi will use the hashtag, #FuelForThought and invite fans to join the conversation through a social experience at the display and online.

Audi A8 TDI
The flagship of the Audi brand, the A8 TDI, makes a powerful statement in achieving a manufacturer estimated fuel efficiency of 24 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway*. The A8 TDI clean diesel executive sedan embodies superior design and progressive advancements which sets new standards for luxury sedans in terms of uncompromising efficiency and performance. The new 2014 A8 sedans dramatically expand the flagship’s engine offerings by moving from two variants (4.2 liter V8 and W12) to five, including: the entry level A8 3.0T V6; the 420 horsepower A8 4.0T V8; the new Audi S8 4.0T V8; the A8 6.0 liter W12; and the new A8 3.0 TDI V6. The new 3.0 liter TDI clean diesel engine generates an astonishing 240 horsepower with 406 lb.-ft. of torque and seamlessly goes 0-60 in 6.4 seconds.

Audi A7 TDI
The Audi A7 TDI clean diesel is the pinnacle of design and is now more fuel efficient than ever. Without compromising design or performance, every detail of the A7 TDI delivers a striking visual statement. The A7 was the first car in the world to feature available factory-installed Wi-Fi (for up to 8 passenger devices) with Audi connect™ and MMI® navigation plus with 3D Google Earth™ maps. From the groundbreaking available MMI touch and its gracefully integrated display screen, to the state-of-the-art head-up display, the Audi A7 TDI is the perfect marriage of progressive design, efficiency and versatile space.

Audi A6 TDI
One of Audi’s most innovative and technologically advanced models to date, the A6 TDI performance sedan sacrifices virtually nothing in performance, comfort or design. As with the successful A6 TFSI® gas engines, the A6 TDI clean diesel engine can make up to 2,000 decisions per second. Available driver assistance systems include night vision assistant, head-up display and Audi pre sense plus that helps detect imminent collisions and initiates protective measures when needed. Other available intelligent features include head-up display and the MMI touch that recognizes handwriting, along with the available Audi connect – the first factory-installed wireless internet connection that enables Google Earth maps, Google Local Search, and a WiFi hotspot for up to eight passenger devices.

Audi Q5 TDI
The Audi Q5 has proven itself an absolute success as one of the best-selling models in the Audi lineup. For the 2014 model year, the Q5 will receive the new TDI engine which will allow for better fuel economy along with increased torque. The Audi Q5 TDI combines the driving appeal of a sedan with high versatility of its interior space and many practical solutions for recreation and everyday driving. Audi has further sharpened the profile of its performance SUV in its design, technological advancements, driver assistance systems and fuel efficiencies. The new TDI clean diesel engine marks the fourth engine variant for the Audi Q5 model lineup, adding to the current four-cylinder 2.0T, the 3.0T V6, and the Q5 hybrid.

Audi Q7 TDI
The Audi Q7 continues to establish the standard in progressive design, sophisticated technology and fuel efficiency in premium sport utility vehicles. The benefits of TDI clean diesel technology are further enhanced through the revised V6 TDI engine that offers a 10 percent efficiency improvement compared to gasoline engines. The revised TDI clean diesel engine has an increased output of 240 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque that helps improve performance and offers impressive fuel economy with an EPA estimated 19 city/ 28 highway miles per gallon*. The incredibly efficient TDI clean diesel engine enables the Q7 TDI to achieve a range in excess of 700 miles per tank***.

2014 MY Availability
A8 TDI           Spring 2013
A7 TDI           Fall 2013
A6 TDI           Fall 2013
Q5 TDI           Fall 2013

Pricing for all 2014 MY vehicles to be announced at a later date

2013 MY  Availability  Starting MSRP
Q7 TDI         Since September 2012      $52,000
* EPA estimates. Mileage will vary.
** Based on total A3 TDI and Q7 TDI vehicles sold, average nationwide gasoline fuel prices, and EPA estimated annual average miles driven.
*** Range based on 28-mpg highway EPA estimates and a 26.4-gallon fuel-tank. Mileage will vary.
Where stated, fuel economy values (mpg) are EPA estimates. All other fuel economy values are forecast manufacturer values for the USA; those EPA estimates were not available at time of release. Audi Connect and SiriusXM Traffic services may require additional subscriptions. MSRPs exclude taxes, title, transportation, options and dealer charges.

ABOUT AUDI
Audi of America, Inc. and its U.S. dealers offer a full line of German-engineered luxury vehicles. AUDI AG is among the most successful luxury automotive brands globally. Audi was a top-performing brand in Europe during 2011, and broke all-time company sales records in the U.S. AUDI AG is planning to invest a total of EUR 13 billion over the period 2012 through 2016 on new products and technologies. Visit www.audiusa.com or www.audiusanews.com for more information regarding Audi vehicle and business issues.

# # #

Category: Automotive, Diesel | No Comments »
Tags: audi, cars, diesel, SUV, tdi

Posted By RichC on November 19, 2012

Upgrades, discounts, sales, coupons … way too much temptation. There is yet another reason to ignore email advertising or online marketing. Unfortunately I’m not taking my own advice and caved in to SlingMedia’s offer of a discount to upgrade my device either of their newer Slingboxes – 350 or “melted and warped” 500. I’ve opted for the more conventional looking and lower priced 350 and plan to replace my original Slingbox, which no longer works with my current mobile devices like it once did.

Mobile aside, I still use it daily in the corner of my computer screen running a silenced CNBC feed and don’t think I’ll mind the improved HDTV picture quality … if it streams? There is an added plus that the newer Slingboxes will work with the iPhone 5 so I’ll be interested to see how my unlimited Sprint connection streams or chokes on the data — 3G for the time being. I’m really not sure how it will work on the go (sorry for the pessimism), but am hoping that I can return to accessing content at least once in a while while traveling.

Unfortunately it looks like I’ll be required to buy 2 versions of the Slingplayer (supposedly on sale for $14.99) IF I want access on both my iPad and iPhone?

Category: Cellphone, Computer, Tablet, Technology, Video-TV | No Comments »
Tags: app, ios, sling, slingbox, slingmedia, slingplayer, smartphone, tv

Posted By RichC on November 19, 2012

After 40 years at the helm of Intel ($INTC), CEO Paul Otellini intends to retire in May of 2012. The announcement has delayed the opening of Intel’s stock today and after a significant downturn in stock price will be another concern for investors.

Intel Corp. (INTC) President and Chief Executive Paul Otellini intends to retire in May, ending a nearly 40-year career with the chip maker.

“After almost four decades with the company and eight years as CEO, it’s time to move on and transfer Intel’s helm to a new generation of leadership,” Mr. Otellini said.

The board has begun the process of choosing Mr. Otellini’s successor and will consider internal and external candidates.
His replacement will take over the company during a shaky time for the semiconductor industry. Intel has largely been sheltered from the storms that pummeled the industry for the past year. Through a shaky global economy and supply chain disruptions, the company has remained buoyant, partly on the strength of emerging markets. But Intel reported last month its third-quarter profit fell 14% amid declining sales of personal computers and higher operating expenses, while revenue declined 5.5%.

During Otellini’s tenure as CEO, Intel said it generated $107 billion in cash from operations and made $23.5 billion in dividend payments.

The company also credited him for transforming its operations and cost structure, reinventing the personal computer with Ultrabook devices, expanding business partnerships and making strategic acquisitions that increased its presence in security, software and mobile communications.
The company promoted Renee James, head of Intel’s software business; Brian Krzanich, chief operating officer and head of worldwide manufacturing; and Stacy Smith, chief financial officer and director of corporate strategy to the position of executive vice president.
Shares closed Friday at $20.19 and were halted in premarket trading. The stock is down 17% since the start of the year.

Category: Financial | 1 Comment »
Tags: $intc, investing, markets

Posted By RichC on November 18, 2012

My wife is a dolphin lover … NOT the Mahi-mahi fish type, but the intelligent and always smiling marine mammals. Me on the other hand, I like both … and  enjoy blackened or grilled Mahi-mahi almost as much as “viewing” a pod of dolphins swimming along side a wind-driven sailboat. Nevertheless, I knew Brenda would enjoy seeing this photo and decided to include it.

Of course Katelyn loves dolphins too (photo from a few years ago)!

Category: Personal, Photos, Sailing, Travel | No Comments »
Tags: brenda, dolphin, family, katelyn

Posted By RichC on November 17, 2012

"Mix bulk creamer and your preferred sweetener in a bowl and then freeze as ice cubes."

If you take creamer and like your coffee to be warm and not boiling-magma-hot you should consider freezing non-dairy creamer—you'll cool down your coffee while adding your preferred amount of creamer.

Reddit user wadel posted this tip. Most readers already know about freezing coffee itself to cool down your cup without dilution but if you take creamer you can kill two birds with one stone. You don't need to necessarily purchase single-serve packets of creamer for this trick, you could mix a bulk creamer and your preferred sweetener in a bowl and then freeze as ice cubes for a quick way to adjust coffee to your liking. Freezing real dairy cream doesn't work out quite as well.

Am I a genius? Creamy drinkable coffee/tea in seconds, not hours! | Reddit

http://m.lifehacker.com/5961495/freezer-your-non%20dairy-creamers-to-make-coffee-drinkable-almost-immediately

Posted via email from RichC’s posterous

Category: Advice | 1 Comment »
Tags:

Posted By RichC on November 17, 2012

There is a Rise Above movement afoot and it is being promoted by business news network CNBC. Supporters and business leaders from both political parties agree that politicians must work together to focus on the financial health of our country and rise above partisan politics. We have yet to see progress and the stock market has punished investors; those saving for college or retirement will certainly see this impact in their next statements. It has been a painful month for everyone invested in stocks or mutual funds, not to mention the overall economy.

Friday offered us the first glimmer of hope as both Republicans and Democrats met to discuss the possibility of a compromise with President Obama. They held a joint press conference which soothed what was starting to look like panic. The DOW responded with a rebound after traders heard polite words from Boehner, Pelosi, Reid and McConnell. Americans can only hope that cooler heads will prevail and that some kind of agreement can be reached that averts going over the financial cliff.

On this point, nearly every business leader and investor who appears on CNBC has been consistent: The status quo leads to economic stagnation or worse; solutions could release powerful forces that propel the nation out of its post-recessionary funk.

On a side note, Rise Above cheerleader and long time CNBC Squawkbox host Joe Kernen was interviewed by his hometown Cincinnati Enquirer newspaper.  It’s nice to know that even though our “jovial Joe” has lived a lifetime in NYC, he fondly and regularly references our corner of Ohio … and calls Cincinnati home.

Have you ever seen the polarization in Washington and among the population this bad?

I’m a young man, so I can’t talk about McKinley and what was going on then, but I can go all the way back to Carter, and no, I haven’t seen it at this point in terms of polarization. And I don’t think it’s just the politicians because the politicians are sent to Washington by people that are polarized as well. We’re at a crossroads in this country to decide whether we want to head down the full-on path to an entitlement state like Europe or whether we want to be more focused on the private sector. We need to decide, and we’re right down the middle.

Politics and politicians can solve this crisis but they are now in the way. For a deal to get done, we must rise above partisan bickering. For a deal to get done, they must move the public toward some form of sacrifice. That’s always been the spirit of America.

Category: Entertainment, Financial, Local, Politics | No Comments »
Tags: cincinnati, cnbc, finance, investing, Politics, rise above

Posted By RichC on November 16, 2012

Hostess Brands Inc., an 82-year old business with household brands such as Twinkie, Ho-Hos, Ding-Dongs and Wonder Bread will close its doors and liquidate assets after a  bitter battle with unions and millions of dollars from venture capital in hopes to save the company. This morning CEO Greg Rayburn talked for 10 minutes with the CNBC Squawkbox crew about the decision.

CNBC interview with Greg Rayburn (mp3) — Hostess Brands, Inc.

No doubt the trademark brands will be relaunch under different ownership, but the 18,500 employees depending on a paycheck, a future and secure retirement can thank the bakers union (BCTGM) who represent about 30% of the workers in the company. Other unions negotiated in good faith according to turn-around CEO Rayburn, the bakers’ union chose instead to strike.

Category: Audio, Business, Financial | 1 Comment »
Tags: Business, cnbc, economy, mp3, unions

Posted By RichC on November 16, 2012

I have purposely not entered an “excuses” comment or worse since everyone in the conservative political realm has an opinion and I’m tired of hearing the internal bickering. I personally prefer the conclusion that neither party had a decisive mandate – the country is indeed split – but know that the Republicans will have to do more to include Hispanics and younger voters. Realistically the core principles of fiscal responsibility, individual freedom and national security DO NOT need to change, but will need to be communicated and understood better. As is repeated by pundits on the right, Hispanics are a natural fit for the GOP; the other (younger voters) may need to come to their conclusion after experiencing “more” of President Obama’s big government failed economic policies.

Another more troubling statistic is the trouble that Mitt Romney and the GOP had in attracting people of faith … or at least those “denoting a faith.” I was shocked to read that approximately 52% of Catholic voters cast their ballots for President Obama." This after his administration started a war against long standing religious principles that are taught by the Catholic Church.

Catholic adoption agencies and charities have been forced to close their doors and shutter their services in order to avoid complying with federal and state mandates to place children with same-sex couples. In 2013, Catholic employers will be forced to provide birth control and abortifacient-drugs in their health insurance offerings or pay millions of dollars in fines. Will they follow the path of the adoption agencies? The church has been told that private beliefs must remain that, private. And yet the people in the pew continue to support the man behind this assault.

Unfortunately it didn’t get much better with Protestants as a Pew study indicated that “a full 42% of all Protestants (which includes evangelical Christians) voted for Obama.” And even after President Obama stood distant from Israel and remained “nonchalance about the safety of the Israeli people, 69% of Jews voted for him.”

Conclusion? Voting for Obama may have enabled people of faith to feel good about voting for someone “who is going to make things “fair” for everyone. They didn’t have to support a man who was realistic about what it will take to get this country back on track to prosperity and liberty. That man doesn’t care about “fairness”; he cares about responsibility and liberty. And those aren’t comfortable concepts. So thousands and thousands of Catholics, Christians, and Jews cast their votes for a man who despises their worldview and is actively working to limit their liberties.”

Quotes from ClashDaily

Category: Politics | No Comments »
Tags: democrat, election, gop, obama, republican, romney

Posted By RichC on November 15, 2012

In keeping with the last couple days of family and personal posts, my daughter and future son-in-law shared their engagement photo proof pages (slide show) from their recent photo session with Shuey Mill Photography. The weather on Sunday afternoon was perfect for the shoot and it helps that the two of them are photogenic. Katelyn and Drew were pleased with the photos (as was Brenda) and they will have a tough time picking from all of the photos … but I know that the final album will be a great keepsake (quite the upgrade from our “self-photos” 30 years ago – although we weren’t really thinking engagement photos either). There were so many great photos, but just screen grabbed a few to archive on the blog.

 
Click for larger images

Category: Archive, Personal, Photography, Photos | No Comments »
Tags: drew, engagement, family, katelyn, photography, wedding