Guy Low Price Electronic: 15 Jul 2009

Wednesday, 15 July 2009

Imagination Entertainment - board game, xmas gift

I bought this game with some birthday money and hoped it would be worth it. Getting my two teen daughters to sit still for a game can sometimes be a challenge, so I was pleasantly surprised to find them intrigued and willing to give it a shot. Maybe it was the whole "beating the parents" idea.

With my wife and I on one side, and the kids on the other, we jumped in. After a minor mix-up on some rules, we got going and had a good time. The questions seemed to be well-assorted, and in fact my oldest daughter did "beat the parents." Oh, man! Now, we've got to play again so I can have a shot at redemption.

Despite a few little things that could've made the game clearer and quicker, I think this is well worth it. The other complaint is that we went through all the questions in the course of two games. Other than that, we modified a thing or two to fit our family's mood and my daughters even said, "That was fun, Dad. Can we play again sometime?" Which I think, translated, meant: "Can we beat you again?"

Hmmm. I guess I'll give it another go. Beat The Parents Board Game

This is a great game and our two girls ages 12 and 9 beat us several times!They were so excited!It is a really good educational game.The big problem with it is that there are no replacement cards.We went through all the cards in two games.I checked around and there are no booster packs of cards.That left us really dissapointed.If we had known that, we never would have bought the game.

I had a great time playing this game with my kids. They really enjoyed trying to find a question mom and dad couldn't answer. It is a very educational game for both parents and children. A great game for family game night!

This *sounded* like a fun game. The idea is that parents have to answer trivia questions that would be easy for kids to answer, but are hard for the parents, and vice-versa. There are a couple of major problems with the way the questions are designed, however.

First, the questions for the kids aren't set up so as to adapt to different ages of kids. My 6-year-old might be challenged by "what color do you get when you mix red and blue?", but my 15-year-old definitely isn't! Nearly all of the questions intended to be harder for the kids, while being pretty much impossible for the 6-year-old, were only a little challenging to my 8-year-old, and downright duh-worthy for my 11-, and 15-year-old . Their unanimous reaction? "These are stupid!"

Second, the questions for the parents almost exclusively involve obscure aspects of pop culture, particularly hip-hop or rap culture. My kids, even the 15-year-old, said that they wouldn't have been able to answer 90% of them any more successfully than my husband and I were. Moreover, they weren't the kind of fun, interesting questions that can at least allow for a fun discussion and a semi-educated guess.

The result is that the playing field isn't level enough to be fun, even for the kids. In the future, we'll be back to playing "Apples To Apples", "Pictureka" or the good ol' classics.

We have a very large family which makes it difficult to find family games that are challenging for the older kids (aged 12 and 14) but easy enough for the younger kids (9 and 10) but not so easy that we parents are bored out of our minds!

This game has simple rules and is easy for the youngest to understand. The questions have a wide range so there are some that are very simple and some that are more challenging, and usually each card has a mix of the two. All six of us that played found some of the questions challenging at times. Every one of us learned at least one new thing from the trivia questions.

Unfortunately, if everyone in your family has a great memory, once you get through the trivia cards one time everyone knows all of the answers already! I'd say this is the biggest drawback of the game and will likely shorten it's life as a family favorite. If they had booster packs of cards that you could use to supplement it would be much better.

Overall this was a fun family game that kept all of the kids of playing age entertained and also made them cooperate as a team without arguing.

I mistakenly bought this game for a family too old to play it. It is appropriate for preteens and teenagers to play with their parents. My kids and we are too old for the references and pop culture questions. It was good for a few laughs but we did not want to play it again.

Your playing this game in minutes. Great for two families having a get together. Four parents against their kids! The questions are just about perfect to keep the game fair and exciting. Good fun every time we play.

My wife and I have played against our kids (6 and 8) twice, and thus far the kids have won a game and we have won a game---so there is parity, in my opinion. (Of course we often give hints to keep them interested.)

Pros: Great educational value. We all learn things as we play, and discuss what we've learned---this keeps it lively. Of course the kids really enjoy teaming up against the parents, so the concept is a big hit with them.

Cons: The rules are very vague (a common theme with Imagination board games). We ended up making some of our own rules based on how we "thought" it should be played after reading the instructions over and over. Additionally, thus far there seems to be quite a few Harry Potter questions for the kids to ask the parents. In our last game, three questions alone dealt with Harry Potter (which I personally have no interest in). SpongeBob questions I can answer. Harry Potter questions---not so much. ;-)

We have yet to go through all the cards, and assume when we do it will be even more fun to see how well the kids (and parents) remember the answers.

All in all I would certainly recommend this game. As others mentioned, the concept is great---but it is in need of some fine-tuning to make the game play more fluid. If Imagination comes out with a second edition, I would purchase it. - Board Game - Games - Trivia Game - Xmas Gift'

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Fox Studio Classics - drama, great film

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Gregory Peck stars as a Madison Avenue executive whose life reaches several crises at once. His wife, Jennifer Jones, is pushing him to make more money and to be more successful, but without losing his ideals or honesty in a business that values neither one of those. His experiences in World War II are coming back to haunt him, and his ownership of his grandmother's house is being challenged by her former servant. Fredric March co-stars as his new boss, a man who put his business before his family, a decision whose consequences he must now live with. There are a lot of lofty ideas being bounced around in this story, and they tend to center around the importance of family and being true to one's self and ideals. Peck is his usual solid self, probably the perfect choice for this kind of role. Jones gets the big emotional scene in the film, and she plays it to the hilt. March gives a very moving, sympathetic performance, while Ann Harding as his distant wife has a couple of good scenes. Although this is very much a film of the Fifties, the basic message of the movie still has its impact today. It's honestly presented, well acted and written, and well worth watching. The Man in the Gray Flannel Suit

Catch the anonymous face in the crowd and consider the bright lights and dark shadows of that fellow's existence. This is Peck's performance in The Man in the Grey Flannel Suit and he is brilliant. Several reviewers have noted "the Look" of the film and its quintessential Fifties style. This is true, I felt I was gaining a peak at a long lost world: Post-war America, advancing economically, but struggling morally. The flashbacks make this half a War movie and give it a shared history with its adult intended audience. This was a time when adult movies did not mean pornography, but dealt with mature themes such as honesty in relationships and integrity in your profession.

Gregory Peck has some great scenes, many in which he doesn't seem to do much. The look on his face on the train when the man in the coat in front of him triggers a repulsive memory from the war is worth pages of dialogue. The uncomprehending shock from when he accidentally kills his best friend is a real tearjerker. I don't know what other American actor at this time could be so effective.

The plot was a surprise to me, I really had no idea this was such an engaging story. The title implies a dull, plodding story, and I have to admit little prior knowledge about this movie except its one of those I'd always heard about. This has got to be one of the best movies out of the Fifties and that is saying a lot. There is poignancy, humor (the kids always glued to the TV and oblivious to the real drama around them), and above all, a slice of life that is absorbing and realistic. This is definitely an overlooked gem needing full DVD glory. Have the popcorn ready, once you start it, you won't want to get off the couch.

This movie showcases great acting, great writing, and a serious, yet entertaining theme. It grapples with serious issues of family,business,ethics,past mistakes, and painful memories in a truly engaging manner. Though it is deeply rooted in the post-WWII fifties, the ideas are timeless. It is at once realistic and redemptive. Watch it with someone you love-it will be a movie you'll both enjoy.

One of the most interesting movies of the 50s, and one which accurately portrays the rarely-approached subject of ordinary men trying to fit in their contemporary workplace. Peck is a little miscast (too tall and striking to possess the "ordinary" quality necessary for the role) and Jennifer could be a little more varied in her characterization (she needs a "light" moment or two) but they are both as usual fun to watch.Peck's interview lunch is one of the best scenes, as is Ann Harding's plea to Frederich March. The other reviewers have not mentioned how the color and Cinemascope really add to the feel of the Fifties , and this cannot be stated enough - see it on a big-inch TV if possible. I think the wardrobe is one of the best in cinema history - it looks exactly as if it came off the racks of the department stores during the period. A great story, and one which anyone who has been employed in the business world as a white-collar worker, and who has aged thru their thirites, will identify with. Recommended.

THE MAN IN THE GRAY FLANNEL SUIT (1956) is writer/director Nunnally Johnson's ambitious film version of the popular 1953 best-seller by Sloan Wilson. It is set in suburban Connecticut and Rockefeller Center, linked by trains full of commuters. One of those commuters is Gregory Peck, who does advertising for one of the big television networks run by his boss, Fredric March. Johnson is setting up contrasts here. Peck is married to Jennifer Jones and has three kids; March is married to 1930's actress Ann Harding and has a daughter named Susie. Both March and Jones seem unhappy at home, happier at work. But Peck is haunted by his past, in the Army in the Pacific in 1945 after World War Two is over in Europe. Peck has an affair with lovely Marisa Pavan, who gives birth to his child. What Peck will do with that Italian child covers the last half hour of the movie.

I like the film a lot because it gives us the clothes and cars and job world of my early childhood in the suburbia of 1950's San Francisco. And the cast is incredible, including Lee J. Cobb, Henry Daniell, Arthur O'Connell, Gene Lockhart, and Keenan Wynn. The brilliant use of CinemaScope, almost all in long shot with characters standing or sitting at opposite ends of the wide screen, is by Charles G. Clarke. A magnificently knowledgeable audio commentary has film scholar James Monaco comparing movie and book constantly, often talking about his own life during this early 1950's period, the cars his father owned and the hats worn, and the stunning use of CinemaScope for a movie that simply could not withstand pan and scan treatment. Maybe that is why it is not shown that often on TV, wonders Monaco; the only network that would always run it letterboxed, Turner Classics, does not own this Fox movie. Thank God for DVD.

THE MAN IN THE GRAY FLANNEL SUIT runs a long 153 minutes, but maintains interest throughout and was a pet project of producer Darryl F. Zanuck. This is from an era when a high-powered Production Chief could dictate that a movie run long to do justice to a long novel. Monaco keeps saying that Jones' wife character is much nicer in the book and does not harp all the time on the quality of life she and Peck have in Connecticut. She seems only a bit too unpleasant on screen for me, and the house they move out of is quite beautiful to me also. That is a director's choice-or maybe Zanuck's choice. Monaco also mentions the kids watching TV a lot in a darkened living room as not being in the book. This is contrasted against a television network office at Rockefeller Center that only has two TV monitors and not the logical three, something I never would have picked up on, like a man wearing the wrong hat or driving the wrong year model car. It is a very illuminating audio commentary by a movie lover and knowledgeable reader for a very good movie. (REVIEWED ON LETTERBOXED DVD.) - Drama - Classics - Gregory Peck - Great Film'

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New In Electronics - stylus, iphone stylus

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I tried several different iPhone styluses and this one is by far the best. The rubber tipped ones are not responsive enough and require too much pressure. This velcro-tipped Pogo stylus works great. You don't need to push hard on the screen and the size makes typing more efficient than using your fingers.

There are only two drawbacks - the price is very high, but you do get what you pay for and the cheaper styluses are not as good; also the clip only works on the base unit, so you can not clip the stylus to your iPhone if you have it in a case. They shoud make an adjustable size clip so it will fit over a slim case. Dr. Bott Ten One Design Pogo Stylus for iPhone 3G, 3G S (Gun Metal)

If you are used to the Palm Pilot Stylus, then you might have to take some time getting used to this thicker diameter stylus. The tip is made of some sort of "styrofoam" and the diameter is similar to that of a pencil erasure. The diameter itself is what takes time to get used to since it's more clumsy than precise. Overall, it's pretty effective and much better than any other stylus on the market for the iPhone. If you have a screen protector, this stylus will require a lot more pressure to use. I would say that 80% of the time it works fine, the other 20% you will need to re-press the affected area... when used with a screen protector. There is a break in period. At first use, the tip of the stylus doesn't slide as well along the iPhone screen, however, after a couple of weeks usage, the tip becomes softer and smoother to use, making it a lot easier to slide on the screen. So give it a chance and you will be very happy using this stylus. Still wish it came with a narrower tip and was much heavier. It's very light since it's just a hollow piece of aluminum. The pogo also comes with a couple of iPhone Stylus holders that I find is much more effective than the competition that use a "pen cap" approach of keeping your stylus attched to your phone. Hope this helps a few.

Well this stylus is made for the Iphone, and Ipod Touch (why not call it the Itouch?...guess that could be taken the wrong way), but me being such a maverick bought this little beast for my Ipad.

I know what you are thinking, "This kid is nuts!" well hang in there, I am going to blow your mind with this......"It works WONDERS!"

Sick of finger prints on your screen? Sick of Steve Jobs telling you that writing with your finger is possible when we all know he is completely insane? Well break away from the pack and buy one of these! You could of course make your own stylus out of a pen, conductive material (aluminum foil, anti-static bag) and maybe a touch of happy thoughts, but if you like your $700 investment like I do, spend a few bucks so you don't scratch your screen.

Break Down:

Pros:

1)Super small, Super simple, It is a Stylus and that is it, don't expect it to make you breakfast or anything.

2)Soft Soft Soft - You never have to worry about scratching your screen, I am hoping they design a chair out of the stylus material, this stuff is amazing.

3)It just works, when you use it on the screen it is just like as if you use a finger, no more, no less.

Cons:

1)Super small...I guess this can be a Con as well because I will most likely lose it, but for the price I can get a few more for safe keeping. If I am not mistaken they make a larger one specifically for the Ipad, although it did not fit as well in my case.

2)Don't expect to draw a Picasso, It is a stylus but for those who aren't informed, the Ipad will only accept something that is near finger size as a touch input device and therefore you cannot use anything fine point. ALTHOUGH: Some people have mad skill, I do not, I have seen some amazing drawings done with these but for your normal pencil artist this won't cut it.

Final Thoughts:

I really enjoy this, and I feel you will as well, like I stated before it is a stylus, and it works as such.

Something that most reviews don't say (that I saw) is this: The pogo is great for art on applications like Colors! or Brushes. It's hard to see how this stylus would be useful, with its flat tip. I didn't understand until I got it myself. But it's not that big around, so the tip is kind of narrow anyway, because the whole thing is narrow, which is a plus for painting. It works pretty well. Here's a painting I did with it using Colors!: [....]

Also, I didn't think I would use the stylus holder that it comes with, but I decided that I didn't want to risk losing this small, expensive stylus. The holder is quite nice.

I really love this little stylus, and highly recommend it.

After purchasing two Stylus pen for my iphone at 7.00 bucks ea. that didn't deliver, I was recommended the Pogo Stylus. I hesitated at first because of it's cost. I know I'm bound to lose it, but till I do, I can only say it's almost like using your finger - and I say almost, cause nothing is more precise than your finger. However, the Pogo comes very close. It slides with ease and you DO NOT have to press hard on the screen which was my experience with the prior two I wasted my money on. This is definitely a good buy.

I purchased 2 of these, 1 for myself and 1 for my 13 year old daughter. They work pretty good. You have to hold it upright, it doesn't work if you have the sylus held at an angle. So that is one thing you have to get use to.

The pen is also pretty bulky, not like your normal smaller stylus pens. I have a hard time figuring out where to put it because it will not fit in the case. You can't use the clip that comes with it if you have your ipod in a case.

All in All the product does a good job and really does what the description says as long as you hold it correctly. I'm glad I purchased them but not sure that I will use it much. My daughter uses hers alot more. Maybe its an age thing, not sure. - Pogo Stylus - Stylus - Iphone Stylus - Ipod Touch'

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Professional Development - grading, education

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The title of this book says it all--it is a repair kit for fixing the "broken" grading system we currently have. This book is full of ideas that challenge the traditional way we grade, but these challenges make total sense in light of what we now know about quality assessments and student learning. O'Connor basically sums up what he states in his book How to Grade for Learning, K-12, and his work is based on and references the work of others who have tackled the grading dilemma, such as Stiggins, Marzano, and Wormeli. The main point of this book is that grades should be a vehicle for communicating student learning, period, and that grades and scores should be reported according to standards, and not include anything that doesn't pertain to student learning (such as participation, effort, etc.). All that should be included in these grades are the summative assessments, and that any formative or diagnostic assessments should not be included. Some points I found especially intriguing were: that you should always take the most recent evidence of learning; not to include absences in a student's score; and that group grades do not accurately reflect student achievement and should not be given. Also interesting is the point he makes about not including zeroes in student grades (he says you should give an "I" for "Insufficient Evidence").

If you are an educator that has been questioning traditional grading practices, this book is a good starting point. My colleagues and I (who teach high school students) have slowly been having misgivings about how we grade and what our grades mean the more and more we implement common formative assessments in our classroom. This book addressed all of our questions, and helped lead us in the right direction for our students.

This book seriously challenges grading practices and principles that have been established as the norm for over 100 years, and, in my opinion, this book is a breath of fresh air. It is a book that breaks out the points quickly and simply, and you can start applying these grading principles in your classroom right away. It's a quick read (I read it in one afternoon), and it is useful and practical. However, if you're looking for some specific suggestions about implementation of these fixes, you need to read O'Connor's "How to Grade for Learning." This small book is meant to be a companion to his first, more comprehensive book. Read both; you won't be disappointed. I would also recommend Fair Isn't Always Equal for more ideas concerning standards-based grading in the differentiated classroom. A Repair Kit for Grading: Fifteen Fixes for Broken Grades (2nd Edition) (Assessment Training Institute, Inc.)

My school and school system are reading this book to review the grading philosophy and procedures for our schools. It was a very quick and easy book to read and each of the "15 fixes" certainly made me think about my grading procedures. The over-arching theme of the book is that report card grades should reflect student understanding of the material, not compliance, behavior, work ethic, or growth. The author argues against things like extra credit, group grades for cooperative projects, and giving zeroes for missing work. I implemented several of the author's ideas into my grading procedures for this school year (after we discussed them at in-services). I have limited my "range of F" to 9 points 50 - 59 (just as the other letter grades include about 9 points). I am working to eliminate formative assessment scores from overall grades and organizing my grades by standards/objectives.

Get this book, but don't pay absurd prices! You can get it in trade paperback direct from the publisher, Educational Testing Service/Assessment Training Institute:

[...]

Hillsboro School District 1J will be providing this book, along with a half-day seminar, to all new teachers in our 20,000+ student district, for the next two or three years.

For teachers and administrators (parents too), I strongly recommend this fast and easy read that will introduce you to standards-based grading, the missing link between classroom assessment and student achievement.

Hugh O'Donnell, Director

Hillsboro School District 1J Board of Directors

Hillsboro, Oregon

I have an issue with this thesis- if I don't include everything I ask students (in my case, junior high) to do (take proper notes, turn in homework, etc.) in the grading scheme, they don't see the linkage and hence don't do it. I agree, in a perfect world, I could run a class on a college-type basis,completely summative, chapter tests, midterm and final; but my students aren't mature enough to do that. Most kids need the immediate incentive of points.

A Repair Kit for Grading (Second Edition)

by Ken O'Connor 2010

The second edition of this book is approximately 38 pages longer than the first edition in 2007. O'Connor has included additional material at the end of each chapter under the headings of "Teacher Vignette" and "Policy Example" as well as a discussion guide at the end. Altogether he has introduced about three more pages of research findings made since the publication of the first edition. O'Connor has also modified several of the figures (ex: Figures 3.2, 3.5 and 3.6 in the second edition) without explaining the changes. He has rewritten three pages from the first edition.

The author makes the curious claim in both editions that "the mathematical problem with zeros is that they represent very extreme scores and their effect on the grade is always exaggerated (p. 96, p. 86)". Well, arithmetic means (averages) are calculated by adding all the numbers in the data range and dividing the sum by the number of data points in the data range; if the range has a zero then it must be included. There is no mathematical problem. O'Connor is more accurate when he claims that "the most important issue is that zeros in the record render grades ineffective as communication because the resulting grade is an inaccurate representation of the student's achievement (p. 96)"; it is a communication problem, not a mathematical problem. This is an example of a polemic going too far against the current use of percentages and other outdated means of communicating student achievement.

O'Connor does make a stab at challenging the use of percentages. Plunked near the bottom of page 72 we find, "This means that to be consistent with a standards-based system the use of the percentage system should be eliminated". This statement is not found in the first edition (compared with page 67 of the first edition) and it begs the question why O'Connor continues to discuss percentages, averages, etc. in his book. This author and others would do well to remember that many teachers work with percentages and even zeros because the employer requires a number grade on the report card at least quarterly. Students are to be shuffled through the school system and graduated on time and under budget. To accomplish this, percentages must be used.

In his new material O'Connor divines the next generation of assessments: "moderated scoring process". He cites the work of Linda Darling-Hammond who is an exponent of the moderated scoring process (p. 68). It is a process by which teams "address performance standards together". Such an assessment system will not be adopted in many districts which require teachers to submit numbered grades on report cards on a regular basis. However, many school jurisdictions talk about such a process, but O'Connor points out it would take a lot of time and money.

Dr. John Merks

Teacher

Riverview High School

Riverview

New Brunswick

Canada - Grading - Middle School - Professional Development - Education'

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Yoga Mat Soap - yoga, hot yoga

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I use the mat wash after every yoga session. It cleans my yoga mats very well; better than soap and water and it leaves my mat sticky for the next yoga session. It's also good after hot yoga sessions. I also enjoy the clean, herbal scent and that it's more natural than soap. Gaiam Yoga Mat Wash

Being a huge clean-freak, I found it necessary to have something to sanitize my yoga mat after sweaty sessions. Unfortunately, however, after using this product, my mat was VERY slippery, even after rinsing it with water numerous times. I do agree with previous reviews and think the cleaner smells nice, and did seem to do a good job cleaning the mat, but it is not worth the feeling that I am going to face-plant and break my nose when I start to slip during a downward dog.

This Mat Wash smells good and works. I still have great grip on my Pilates mat (if not better). The smell is a slightly earthy smell that is light and fragrant. Easy cleaning instructions included. It would be nice if they made a larger model, because this stuff works well. - Yoga Accessories - Yoga - Hot Yoga - Yoga Mats'

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Lab Coat - womens, labcoats

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After looking at several other labcoat's reviews, I decided to buy this one. It was exactly what I was looking for. I needed a labcoat for a tall person, and this did not disappoint. It was a tad big, but I took it in anyways. The fabric was wonderful and it was very sturdily put together. I love the three pockets as well as the slits in the sides so you can reach your own pockets. It was very easy to handle and doesn't wrinkle as much as I anticipated. Full Length Lab Coat tall, 46T, White

This lab coat was of excellent quality. The only down side was the shipping cost to Alaska was as much as the Lab coat itself. When I voiced my concern, the company refunded my shipping cost. I would definitely recommend this company to others. - White Lab Coats - Labcoats - Womens - Coats'

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Canon Printer Ink - mp780, printer ink

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The BCI-3eBk is good quality black ink for an inkjet printer. I have used this ink for a couple of years now and don't recall it smudging on the pages I print. The price on this product (compared to HP products) is fair, but I am able to print a 100 to 200 pages before running out of ink. Of course, you will get more pages out of this cartridge if you print more color graphics than text. Canon BCI-3eBK Black Ink Cartridge (4479A003)

I've had Canon printers using this cartridge for more than a year and won't settle for any of those knock-offs. Yeah, they're often much cheaper, but this is one area where you get what you pay for. Brand X fades and does not perform as well in the inkjet system. This has been confirmed in independent lab tests in a leading PC magazine. I have had to install and remove countless cartridges and NEVER spilled a drop. The pop-in, pop-out design couldn't be easier.

Not much to say besides it's very easy to install and quite inexpensive compared to the other brands (HP, Epson, etc). The best thing about this ink is that it doesn't run out very fast. I've printed numerous docs (say about 500) and many invitations (say 500) and I'm still on my first tank. I do recomend getting this ink for all you who do have a compatible printer. In my opinion, messing with generic brand ink somehow leads to problems down the line. You may be saving some money now, but down the road when you'll be kicking yourself when the generic stuff breaks or clogs your printer.

This product was purchased through Amazon from Eforcity. It was advertised as Canon. The picture of the product was a canon box picture, BUT IT WAS NOT CANON. It was aftermarket! I did not get canon, I got conned!

Good price and quick delivery. The product is a Canon original and not a generic which the repairman told me never to use in my Canon printer after repairing it due to ink damage from a Staples generic cartridge. I mean it ruined the print head and the main board. Thanks Amazon.Com for good service and products.

If you own a Canon printer, buy a Canon ink cartridge! That is my warning. Generic ink cartridges may look the same as their OEM counterparts but that is not the case. The little sponge that the ink comes out of has some kind of defect so the ink spreads out unevenly and your document or photo will be smeared with ink!!! So even if you find a great deal at $1.99 or better, stick with the official Canon product - it can't be beat.

First off, this product is excellent. This review is to warn potential purchasers that Eforcity (3rd party vendor) purports to sell "genuine" Canon BCI-3e BK cartridges but substitutes Chinese compatibles of lesser quality. When I challenged Eforcity, they said I would have to return the bogus ink tanks to obtain a refund. Without even being asked, Amazon stepped in and processed a refund. Avoid this vendor if you need genuine Canon ink, which is strongly recommended to avoid "messy" problems with your printer.

Ad clearly stated (and showed photo of) Canon BCI-3eBK ink. Instead I received a knock-off brand named "OA100" which had "Made in China" stamped on the bottom its package. I then went through the steps at Amazon to get refunded... which first requires me to email the company. The company never responded to my email but did refund my full purchase price once I filed the claim with Amazon. Maybe just a mix up on their part since the company has mostly (and many) positive ratings. Guess I get to list 3 knock-off brand cartridges on ebay now! :)

it was shown as a cannon ink tank when it arrived it was a innovera ink tank

if I had know it was not a cannon ink tank I would not have purchased it.

the last time I used a remanufactured ink tank I had to replace my printer head which was over $70.00.

this product may be ok but I am not willing to take the risk.

they should have made it clear it was not a real cannon ink tank - Mp780 - Ink - Printer Ink - Ink Cartridge'

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Exercise Bands - fitness, exercise bands

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When I opened the box initially I wondered if I'd be able to tell the different resistance levels in these bands as they are all different colors.

After looking at them briefly and checking out the size of the tube and thickness I have to say this:

You'd have to be pretty thick-headed to not be able to tell which bands are easy and which bands are hard.

Yellow is the lightest

Then Green

Then Blue

Then Black

Red is the hardest

The fact that people take a star away because they're not labeled is sad. How many people would keep this piece of paper if it came in the box, for future reference? Anyone? Really?

It's in the description anyways, so people complaining about that is not necessary. Use your head.

The only thing that would be more helpful is how to use the door anchor it comes with. Black Mountain Products Resistance Band Set (Five Bands Included)

after only 3 weeks of working out with these bands the handles have started falling apart. I am working out with the P90X program and as I was working out I was in full tension with the red band...handle broke...band came back and tore my skin open on the opposite arm. This is very poorly constructed and if you still buy these...check the metal ring by the stoppers on the bands...make sure its on there correctly since BMP doesnt check their products

I have been using these bands for a couple of weeks, and they definitely offer a good work out. I have stretched them past what I thought were the limits and they have survived just fine. If they do break it's nice to know they have a lifetime warranty.

The one thing I would say is that if you are a bigger guy (I bench just under 300 lbs), you may want to purchase their set that is "stackable". I can fit two of these in my hands fairly easily, so I do most exercises with the red and black (the two heaviest bands) simultaneously. With the stackable ones there is a clip so you only have to hold one handle and can attach multiple bands. However, with those two bands it still provides a great workout. With the stackable you could add even more though.

Overall a great buy. Most bands in retail stores are around $10/ea. These bands are the same or higher quality. Included is a booklet with some basic exercises for beginners. Great for traveling.

Bands appear to be of good quality and might work for a light workout or to tone, not very good for the P90X program. First time I used this product the highest level band broke and I ended up with a nice cut on the leg from the steel connection point striking me after it tore out of the grip.

I bought these to save a little bit of money for doing the p90x system. If you are thinking of doing the same DON'T DO IT. It says that they are great for doing any home workout exercise including extreme workouts but half of my bands are busted now. The elastic band is attached to the handles using a grommet. On half of my bands the grommet has pulled out of the handle. Twice when this happened the flying grommet left blood welts on my shoulder and leg.

If you planning on doing p90x I recommend spending the extra money to get the official bands. I am going to have to do it so I am out the money I wasted on these.

These bands tore out of their handles in my 3rd week owning them. The product seemed ok when it arrived, but after less than 10 normal work outs they broke, rendering them useless.

I would not recommend this product to anyone. If deciding to purchase bands, I would recommend the higher priced, seemingly better quality bands out there.

You know the phrase, No pain, no gain? I think they had this product in mind when thinking of it. So, My first and last time using these bands resulted in an awesome welt down my back. The band snapped and the cheap, metal rings which are used to hold the handle to the band snapped down my back while doing triceps curls....I was not over stretching the bands, they are complete crap....You defiantly get what you pay for...

I don't have much experience with exercise bands, but when setting out on a new fitness program (P90) I decided they would be a better option than multiple sets of weights or one adjustable weight set. I have not been disappointed in my decision. I have been using these bands for five weeks now (three times a week) and they have provided me with an excellent work out experience. The build quality is sturdy and the weight ranges available in this set are perfect for those looking to progress from a beginner to a more advanced level of strength training.

For those that are complaining that these bands do not offer enough resistance, they work as advertised. If you needed more resistance to begin with, you should have bought higher resistance bands rather than these. I'm looking forward to taking a couple of these bands with me so I can continue exercising when I hit the road at the end of the month.

I purchased these resistance bands in January of 2011 (super fast shipping to VA) and I must say they are one the best things I have bought off of Amazon. I originally used them form me Slim in 6 beachbody workout and I now use them for P90X. I travel 3 to 4 days per week and I can throw these bands along with my workout DVDs in my bag and get a great workout in while in my hotel room. These bands have been helping to keep my motivated because I no longer have an excuse for skipping workouts while on the road. I love this set because the varying band sizes allow me to continue challenging myself by increasing the resistance without increasing the weight of my suitcase :-). This product is made extremely well and the hand grips are made for comfort. I definitely recommend this product to anyone that will listen and BMP has great quality products. Thanks BMP!!! - Exercise Bands - Fitness - P90x - P90x Resistance Bands'

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Cpo Bostitch - cpo bostitch, staplers

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I bought this fine stapler at H.D. about 1.5 years ago from their rental dept. They had never rented it, I was told. I paid about $210 for a like new stapler. I bought some 2" staples here at AMAZON, a great deal with the free shipping. Overall, I love this stapler for construction projects that do not require a finished surface.

Pros:

- Will drive a 2" staple. I believe the 7/16" crown staplers only drive a 1.75" staple.

- 16 gauge fasteners are thicker than 15 gauge, thus stronger.

- The staples have a lot of holding power

- The sequential trip makes for quick work

- Power (see con) is more than adequate for pine, plywood, etc.

- Staples do not split the wood as fast as a thicker nail

- Staples do not penetrate past the surface as a nail will

- Staples do not pull thru the wood if the wood pieces are seperated as a nail will.

Cons:

- Hard to find staples

- Power (see pro) is less than adequate for hickory. I had to use the 15 ga finish nailer set to max pressure 110psi. I am using my whimpy compressor so I do not get effective or lasting pressure. My big compressor is not hooked up yet. Bostitch 650S4-1 1-to-2-1/2-Inch 16-Gauge Medium Crown Stapler

The Bostitch 650S4 is indeed top of the line. I've been using it to install OSB decking on a roof and have been very well satisfied with it. I have not had a jam with it and it will sink the staples to the correct depth as long as the air pressure holds up. Easy to use and to load, much better quality than lesser air staplers. - Pneumatic - Staplers - Cpo Bostitch'

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Sport Mule

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I purchased this shoe for a recent trip. Because it is necessary to remove your shoes when going through airport security, I wanted a pair of shoes that were not only comfortable but were easy on and off. I wore them with knee high trouser socks and I easily slipped off my shoes, walked through security and slipped my shoes back on without any hassle. I wore them almost every day on the trip and they were wonderful. They gave me the support I needed for my feet and knees and were the perfect traveling companion!!! If you are looking for a shoe that will allow you all day comfort....this is it! Easy Spirit Women's Traveltime Mule,White/Lt Blue Lthr,12 M

These are the most comfortable shoes I have ever owned in my life! (pushing the big 5-0). There is the reason that they are in 845th place of apparel on Amazon. I got the green/olive pair. They run true to size. I've decided to buy more in the other colors. I use them as advertised, for light walking. I wouldn't use them to exercise in, but for casual walking, they're great. Good job, Easy Spirit!

Easy spirit travel time Athletic shoe is the most comfortable shoe I have ever worn. I am 42 years old and on my feet a lot. After some 16 hour work days and my feet still do not feel sore. I highly recommend these shoes. They look great too and are true to size.

These shoes have saved my feet. I was having all kinds of trouble with my feet. I tend to go barefoot around the house and my arches started hurting badly. The podiatrist told me to get some Easy Spirits because they have such good support and to stop going barefoot. I wear these shoes around the house now and my feet have stopped hurting completely.

I have terrible problems with my feet and need surgery. This is the only shoe that allows me to comfortably stand and walk for long periods of time. Also, they hold up extremely well to wear and tear.

This is probably the most comfortable shoe out there. These Easy Spirit mules are very lightweight and have a super-cushioned sole and soft insides. I'm buying several more pair in different colors. I found the best price through Amazon and after placing the on-line order, received the shoes in about a week. Very efficient service.

I love these shoes. I wear them all the time and they are still looking good and are comfortable. I usually wear wide but ordered these in medium width and they fit great. I have had no problems with them sliding off my foot like some slip on tennis shoes can.'

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In-dash Dvd Player - car navigation, car stereo

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I just installed my new Pyle few days ago, so i do not have a deep review, but i will give you my feed back so far.

The good.

* Well done, i mean, looks really god (does not look cheap).

* Nice image crisp and clear. Some quick access options for bright or dark days, and a complete set up menu to configure it.

* Good sound, a lot of output wiring options, including two rear video outputs, so you will upgrade your video with two more monitors if you like, without extra accesories.

* Wire harness included... in my case, Pyle included a harness that match my car connectors, so great bonus. Easy to mount, and easy to connect (by pass) the parking brake wire.

* USB and SD Card options.

* Plays the most common audio and video formats, including Divx for video and Windows media for songs.

The bad:

* The screen blocks the middle air conditioning vents, so most of the time the screen is inside (i live in a very hot place). That is why you really depends of the remote. One basic operation like forward or backward is not available on the panel. So, the only way to get it is with the screen or the remote.

* There is a "beep" any time you use the volume control... annoying thing, because is a loud beep for any point of volume, i mean, increase from 10 to 18 is 8 loud beeps.

* The source is controlled by one button. The control does not have a button for each source mode to play it fast, so you will need to push that button until you find the right source.

* Cooling fan sometimes very loud.

* The touch screen performance is not the best... difficult to set time or find the right song in the menu. Sometimes you need the remote to run the close menu lines.

So far, i think is a very good choice (Price Vs. Benefits). I made an upgrade on my Car sound system, because i use to have just a basic Cd Player, and now i have a lot of choices to run with this unit. I already ordered an additional 7" screen to maintain my kid busy in long trips.

I am very happy with this equipment and i will recommend you considering the bad items mentioned (not to bad, but annoying sometimes). PYLE PLTS79BT 7-Inch Single DIN In-Dash Motorized Touch Screen TFT/LCD Monitor with DVD/CD/MP3/MP4/USB/SD/AM-FM/RDS/Bluetooth and Screen Dial Pad

Everthing worked fine except the CD. It didn't load the CD - had to return it.

Touch screen not very fast but OK speed. Like most DVD players - you need an adaptor to use ur USB flash drive. Jensen has the regular USB drive already installed to illiminate this extra piece of hardware.

2 reasons to purchase - The Screen is detachable and the price is OK.

2 reasons not to purchase - Slow touchscreen and u don't know if the CD will work until u install. - Car Navigation - Car Stereo - In-dash Navigation'

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Black And Decker - charger, battery charger

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Since I cannot do my entire yard on one battery, this makes it easier since I can charge an additional battery while I am using the other. As advertised, it charges an 18V battery in one hour and the 24V battery in two hours. I like the fact that you can charge different size batteries in this charger. Black & Decker BDFC240 9.6 Volt to 24 Volt Battery Charger For NST1024 String Trimmer And NHT524 Hedge Trimmer

I have 5 batteries now and I love that I can charge all of them in under half a day now. If you have multiple Black and Decker accessories and batteries then this is a great time saver. Plus it will not ruin your batteries if you leave it on the charger for too long like the standard charger will do.

Bought this early July 2010 and used it about 8 times over two days to recharge two older and one new 18V batteries while I pruned a LOT of bushes. It worked very well, as advertised. It did take a little longer than the advertised time of 1 - 2 hours to recharge the older (near end-of-life) batteries. But the new battery repeatedly recharged in under an hour. I really like that it can be wall mounted, though it could use two mounting holes, not just one. With just the one hole, it tends to rotate a little as you are inserting or removing batteries. HINT: to prevent the rotation, I put a small screw in the wall so that the screw head fit inside one of the standoff feet --- problem solved!

As stated, this is more than a good battery charger. It charges all the battery types as promised and provide a health check on the battery so you know if you should replace it. Works like a charm, love it.

Decided to purchase this charger because it will charge the B&D 24 volt trimmer battery in about an hour and a half. It will not overcharge the battery and it will let you know if there is something wrong with it. The charger that came with the 24 volt trimmer takes about ten hours to recharge the 24 volt battery and it does not make it clear if you can leave it on the charger for an extended period without damage and it does not have the trouble indicator. Delivery was prompt - actually arrived a day early.

I bought this charger for my Black and Decker rechargable string trimmer. The trimmer came with a small charger that slipped on the battery and it took about 10 hours to charge the battery. I ordered the Black and Decker BDFC240 9.6 volt to 24 volt charger and received it within a week. It works great. It charges my Ni-Cad 24 volt battery in 2.5 hrs. I have two batterys because the ni-cads only last about 10 to 15 minutes. Which is long enough for me to do the trimming needed, though if I ever replace my trimmer I will get one with the smaller, lighter weight ion battery. I would highly recommend this charger.

I had to charge my 24v battery for my trimmer. It takes more than 2 hours as described from the description. I am glad I had it, because it also charges my 18v battery. Very easy to understand. When charging it is blinking light. When finished, it is solid light. For the price, I think it is a great charger.

Well its WAY faster then the standard. Over 30 min for a really dead or old battery, If i purchased again i would but the double version. One battery at a time won't get you far on a large garden or multiple tools. Two charging and one using it the best formula for 18V NiCD batteries. Wish cheaper NiMh batteries would come out already.... - Battery Charger - Black And Decker - 12v - Charger'

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