Modern Life

Top 10 Celebrities With Big Butt

2012-08-09T04:59:00.000-07:00

1. Jennifer Lopez

Net Worth: $250 Million
How she made her money: Actress, Businesswoman, Recording artist

J-Lo put big booties on the map and that brings her number one on our list of the best backside in Hollywood. Her rump is reportedly insured for $27 million and we think it is worth every penny. She is credited with bringing b u t t back into fashion and for that we will forever be grateful. She proudly showed off her assets on the cover of Stuff magazine’s Sept. 2001 cover, one of the magazine’s best selling issues in history. – in shorts that cost thousands of dollars, no less. Other b*tts may come and go, but we think J-Lo will be defending her throne for a long time to come.

2. Kim Kardashian

Net Worth: $35 Million
How she made her money: Businesswoman, Socialite, Television personality, Model, Actress

Her gravity defying backside- along with the s*x tape, long list of celeb boyfriends(mostly black guys) and one time BFF status with Paris Hilton – helped catapult Kim Kardashian to new heights of fame. She’s also been the subject of b*tt implant rumors but she said “no way it is real,i will never outlive those rumors. No implants, no injections, no anything to my backside.”

3. Beyonce

Net Worth: $300 Million
How she made her money: Singer-songwriter, Record producer, Actress, Model, Fashion designer, Businesswoman

She coined the term “b-*-*-t-y-l-i-c-i-o-u-s” and it’s obvious why. Her best selling bottom caught the eyes of star rapper Jay-Z and made headlines when Beyonce appeared in nothing but a leotard and heels in the video for her hit “Single Ladies.”

4. Serena Williams

Net Worth: $85 Million
How she made her money: Professional Tennis Player

Serena Williams is as famous for her b**ty as she is for her tennis — but according to Serena herself, there’s another woman out there whose b*tt puts hers to shame. Take a wild guess who…

5. Nicki Minaj

Net Worth: $14 Million
How she made her money: Rapper, Singer-songwriter

When rapper Nikki Minaj burst onto the scene last year her talent as an artist had a number of people talking, but it seems that another asset of Nicki’s also became a much talked about her b*tt being implants.

In a recent interview with the New York Post Nicki Minaj speaks on the b*tt pad/b*tt implants rumors. “Absolutely not,” said Nicki Minaj when asked about using b*tt pads or getting implants. “People will pick anything to talk about, and that happens to be the thing at the moment”.

6. Vida Guerra

Net Worth: $2.5 Million
How she made her money: Model

While she’s not as well known as other ladies on our list, Vida’s backside is world renowned. She won FHM‘s Best B*tt In The World Award not once, but twice.She models, sings and acts, but she owes much of her recognition to her body.The fact that she won FHM’s Best B*tt Award twice keeps her sexy and relevant at all time.

7. Nicole ‘Coco’ Austin

Net Worth: $4 Million
How she made her money: Reality TV personality, Model, Web personality

There is no doubt that Mrs. Ice- T, Nicole ‘Coco’ Austin, is very proud of her body. She is prone to posting b*tt shots of herself on twitter, and it is highly likely she backs into rooms instead of walking into them.

She is constantly defending herself from rumors that she had her backside enhanced. “100% All Natural! I had my b**bs enhanced at 18 years old and that is the only plastic surgery that I ever have done to my body.” Unlike her breast, her backside has been with her all her life.
“The first time I was called “bubble b*tt” was when I was around 12. My b*tt wasn’t huge but on my small frame it would bulge out a little bit plus my back has a natural deep arch. My best friend and sister would call my backside their crystal ball and they could see the future.”

8. Buffie Carruth

Buffie Carruth, also known as Buffie The Body, or simply Buffie, is a model from Athens, Georgia best known for posing for hip hop-related magazines and video appearances.

Thanks to models like ‘Buffie The Body’ the “Big B**ty” complex has swept across US and is getting out of control.Every one is on there grind to make ends meet so if that means shaking your b**t y at the car wash in a bikini “So be it”. Buffie The Body was in B Moore at Titanuim Motors hosting the big b**t y car…

9. Jessica Biel

Net Worth: $18 Million
How she made her money: Actress, Model, Singer

Jessica Biel got her break playing a preacher’s daughter on TV, but she became famous when she posed n*ked for Gear magazine at just 17 years old. She then gave new meaning to the term skinny jeans in Texas-Chain-saw M*ssacre, shook her money maker as ex*t i c dancer in the film Powder Blue, and teased fans with the wet under-wear scene in Chuck and Larry – proving that her backside just gets better with time.

10. Sofía Vergara

Net Worth: $14 Million
How she made her money: Actress, Model, Television host, Entrepreneur

Modern Family actress Sofia Vergara has the whole package. She’s talented, gorgeous, and has an amazing b*tt.The former Colombian model is current one of the most search celebs on the internet and has huge media attention.She’s ranked #3 Askmen.com 99 Most Desirable Women of 2011.

11. Melyssa Ford

Net Worth: $2 Million
How she made her money: Actress, Model

Model-actress Melyssa Ford has also been blessed with a magnificent tush. In fact, many refer to the insanely curvaceous Melyssa Ford as Jessica Rabbit.

Well, you’ve seen her shaking her ample b**ty in videos for Jay-Z, Ghostface Killah, and Mystikal.She’s known to be one of the most beautiful black Ladies in the world.

12.Eva Mendes

Net Worth: $12 Million
How she made her money: Actress, Model, Singer, Designer

Eva Mendes’ backside is enough to turn a g a y man straight (we think). Getting n*ked for a good cause? We like!

Eva gave the world a front row view of her backside when she posed n*ked for Peta. The campaign was unveiled in Rockefeller Plaza, but city authorities asked organizers not to reveal the exact time or place of the event because they were in fear of creating a mob scene.

13.Halle Berry

Net Worth: $70 Million
How she made her money: Actress, Former model

Her roles in Swordfish and Monster’s Ball solidified Halle Berry’s place in Hollywood and on our list of the big backside around hollywood. Jamie Foxx made every man in the world jealous at the 2009 Spike TV’s Guy’s Choice Awards when he not only kissed Halle on stage, but palmed her backside while she grabbed his c r o t c h. Now that’s good TV!

14.Scarlett Johansson

Net Worth: $35 Million
How she made her money: Actress

She has one of the most voluptuous bodies on the big screen and Scarlett Johansson is proud of it. “I’m curvy – I’m never going to be 5′ 11″ and 120 pounds,” she says. “But I feel lucky to have what I’ve got.” And we feel lucky to get to look at it.

15.Shakira

Net Worth: $140 Million
How she made her money: Singer-songwriter, Record producer

Her hips don’t lie, and neither does her b*tt. She finished third in WENN.com’s voter poll for the world’s best b*tt.Shakira hit the scene in 2001 thanks to her crossover album “Laundry Service” and b**ty-shaking moves on stage.

Hottest Olympic athletes 2012 London Olympic

2012-08-09T04:05:00.001-07:00

Hottest Olympic athletes

Sure, they're the best athletes in the world in terms of strength, speed and talent, but these sizzlin' Olympians are also on top of their game when it comes to simply being hot. See who's out to scorch the competition with their perfectly fit physiques ..

Ryan Lochte

It doesn't get much hotter than American swimmer Ryan Lochte. With his rock-hard bod and twinkling blue eyes, we're sure this six-time Oympic medal winner is going to make a splash in London.

Lolo Jones

She's Team U.S.A.'s Olymic darling, and it's easy to see why. Hurdler Lolo Jones may have yet to win an Olympic medal, but her amazing abs make her a winner in our book

Michael Phelps

Michael Phelps holds the record for winning more Olympic medals than any other athlete in history ... and for having the best six-pack of all time.

Jessica Ennis

British runner Jessica Ennis abs-olutley smashes her competition.

James Magnussen

Aussie swimmer James Magnussen has us rooting for Team Australia ...

Leryn Franco

It's plain to see why Paraguay's Leryn Franco is called the Kim Kardashian of javelin throwing. The brunette bombshell is one of the main reasons why we'll be tuning into this year's games ...

Darya Klishina

Russian long jumper Darya Klishina is hotter than most by leaps and bounds.

Nick Symmonds

First-time Olympian Nick Symmonds is high on our list of athletes to watch this summer. Just look at him

Kerri Walsh and Misty May-Treanor

U.S. volleyball players Misty May-Treanor (l.) and Kerri Walsh (r.) make one picture-perfect team ..

Natasha Hastings

Team U.S.A.'s Natasha Hastings somehow manages to look gorgeous while working up a sweat running a 400-meter race.

Caroline Wozniacki

When it comes to looking amazing both on and off the tennis courts, our money is always on Danish beauty Caroline Wozniacki.

Maggie Vessey

In terms of being gorgeous, few can keep up with U.S. middle distance runner Maggie Vessey.

Emma Coburn

Olympic newcomer Emma Coburn has never looked better.

Laura Robson

We'll pair up with sexy British doubles player Laura Robson any time.

Top 10 Most Popular Nokia Mobiles 2012

2012-08-08T11:37:00.003-07:00

10. Nokia N9 16GB 3G

Nokia N9 3G 16GB starts off the list of Top 10 Most Popular Nokia Mobiles 2012. N9 was one of the most awaited phones of last year and it really lived up to its expectations when it was launched. the unique design and structure with its tapered endings is quite a beauty to hold and use. The absolutely stunning 3.9 inch AMOLDED Clear black display has been reinforced with Gorilla Glass. A dual Led flash 8 MP Carl Zeus autofocus camera takes care of all the entertainment needs.

9. Nokia 2720 S40

The Nokia 2720 runs on the rare S40 platform which somehow limits the usage and capabilities of the mobile phone. It does give you a Wap browser but that really what it has to offer. The body and design are quite eye catching and the dual display works like a charm. Nokia 2720 comes with the useful Bluetooth and push to talk features which do come in handy quite a lot. All this comes in the lowest price range which has made this phone a hit. It is placed 9th in the Top 10 Most Popular Nokia Mobiles 2012 list.

8. Nokia Lumia 800 black 16GB

With ! million units already sold, the Lumina 800 has already proved that Nokia is going in the right direction! The Lumina 800 is a Windows phone and the flagship phone of Nokia’s new era. Powered by Internet Explorer 9, this 3.7 inch AMOLDED Clear black display phone boasts of an 8MP camera capable of HD recording! It also comes with a mind blowing 335 hours standby time on 3G. Lumina 800 currently is being offered in Black and cyan only.

7. Nokia 6085

Nokia 6085 is one of the last ones of its kinds which have proved their mettle and will make it to the new era with ease. The 6085 does not have large touchscreen displays or blazing internet speeds but it is quite efficient and reliable at doing what it was made to do. It does have A2DP Bluetooth connection for enjoying stereo wireless music and dual displays for checking alerts without having to flip open the phone again and again. Nokia 6085 ranks 7th in the Top 10 Most Popular Nokia Mobiles 2012 list.

6. Nokia E5-00

Most of us are quite at ease with the E series Nokia Mobiles introduced a few years ago. The Nokia E5-00 has been by far the most successful E series phone of the lot and is still in demand all over the world. Striking the perfect balance between being a business phone and an entertainment one, E5 has a standard qwerty layout with a large and easy to use navigation button. WiFi and HSDPA is available for speedy internet connections.

5. Nokia C2-01

Nokia C2-01 is probably the best second phone that you can keep with your Apple iPhone or Samsung Galaxy S2 and ranks 5th in the Top 10 Most Popular Nokia Mobiles 2012 list. It flawlessly runs GPRS and has a decent camera and display fir its 2 inch screen. The small price tag is defiantly a bargain as the phone packs a lot more productivity than its price suggests. It also cones with a 3.15 MP which sadly lacks a flash.

4. Nokia X2-01

The X2-01 was a huge hit because of 2 factors. the first one was its price range. The X2-01 has all the basic and necessary features required nowadays and at a very low price. The second reason of its success is its customized home screen which has been optimized for messaging and playing media or taking pictures. It does not have any outstanding specifications which require a mention but it is in fact the overall effect which is more than satisfactory.

3. Nokia C5-03

this 3.2 inches touchscreen smartphone sports a 5 MP camera and 229 ppi 16 million display. It has a 600 MHz processor which can handle high speed data transfer up to 10.2 Mbps!Sadly, it was not given the OS upgrade Anna as was offered for other phones of this type. Maybe it was not upgraded because it falls in the lower price range of smartphones. The Nokia C5-03 has been rated 3rd in the Top 10 Most Popular Nokia Mobiles 2012 list.

2. Nokia N8

The Nokia N8 is one of those phones which come out of the blue and blow away all the competition. The N8caused quite a splash with its 3.5 inches AMOLDED touchscreen and a 12 MP autofocus Carl Zeus camera. It has all the connectivity options popular now days and is quite fast too! Nokia N8 was launched with the Symbian 3 OS but now an Anna OS upgrade has been made available for it.

1. Nokia C3-00

Nokia C3-00 come out, quite surprisingly, at the top of the Top 10 Most Popular Nokia Mobiles 2012 list. Featuring a qwerty keyboard with wide and nicely spaced keys and a large navigational button, using C3 for browsing the internet, texting of just listening to music quite fun. The Nokia C3-00 has a 2MP camera and a 2.4 inches display to go with it. It also has WiFi connectivity for internet on the go.

20 World’s Coolest PC Designs

2012-08-06T14:36:00.002-07:00

Showing Off Windows 7
Design-focused PC makers are launching laptops, netbooks, and displays—and upgrading some existing models—to show off Windows 7, which launched on Oct. 22. Many of these products are thinner or lighter than their predecessors while some introduce multitouch capabilities. Here, check out 20 of the coolest new designs, from pricey to more affordable.

Lenovo ThinkPad T400s
The 14.1-inch T400s can register up to four fingers on the multitouch screen. That allows two people to work collaboratively, with both parties able to manipulate and move onscreen images with two hands. Lenovo says that’ll be handy for the laptop’s target market of engineering and design professionals.

Dell Latitude Z
The designers of the Latitude Z wanted to cater to on-the-go laptop users. This 16-in. machine, launched in
September, is just over half an inch thick, weighs 4.5 pounds, and features wireless docking and charging.

Sony VAIO L All-in-One
This is a high-definition PC with a 24-in. multitouch screen display. Users can watch and record live HD television channels via the built-in TV tuner and watch videos via the Blu-ray player, also built in.

HP ENVY 13
The ENVY series of notebook PCs offer thin design for enhanced mobility. This model is less than 1 in. thin, weighs 3.74 lbs., and offers up to 18 hours of battery life with an optional $125 extended-life battery.

Lenovo ThinkPad X200 Tablet
The X200 Tablet supports two-finger multitouch, allowing users to manipulate objects with Windows 7-supported gestures such as pinch, zoom, tap, and flick. Touch-enabled tiles on the screen allow users to control volume and screen brightness or put the laptop to sleep. The screen also rotates to fold into a “tablet”.

Sony VAIO Signature Collection X Series
This notebook has an 11.1-in. widescreen display and weighs 1.6 lbs. The keyboard is made from aluminum, and the LCD screen is scratch-resistant.

HP TouchSmart tx2
The first TouchSmart PC was introduced nearly three years ago, but on Oct. 22, HP added two models with multitouch-enabled screens. These new models also feature HP’s built-for-touch applications for media such as Hulu, Twitter, and Pandora radio.

Toshiba Satellite M505 Touch
This laptop, with a 14-in. LCD touchscreen that lets users tap, drag-and-drop, and scroll, became available on Oct. 22 with the launch of Windows 7. Software designers have included two new touch applications: Bulletin Board for managing daily activities and ReelTime for finding files.

Sony VAIO P Series
Weighing 1.4 lbs., this 8-in. laptop was designed to slip into a jacket pocket or handbag. Sony says the battery will last up to 3.5 hours.

Acer Aspire 5738PG
Acer America released this touchscreen laptop to capitalize on Win 7 buzz. The 15.6-in. screen can support two-finger pinching and flicking while the touchpad recognizes multitouch gestures.

ASUS UL30 A
ASUS designers also focused on creating a laptop that would be easy to lug around town. This 13.3-in. model measures less than 1 in. thick and has up to 12 hours of battery life.

Acer Aspire 5738DG
This Acer notebook comes with 3D viewing technology—a 3D screen, software, and glasses. It can also create a 3D experience with two dimensional content.

HP Pavilion dm3
This “thin and light” notebook was designed with entertainment in mind. With a brushed aluminum-magnesium alloy case, it can deliver up to 10 hours of battery life, making it a good bet for watching multiple in-flight movies.

Toshiba Satellite T115
This ultrathin, 11.6-in. laptop has a full-sized keyboard and a full-sized touchpad, which enables two-finger pinch, swipe, rotate, scroll, and other gesture commands.

Samsung N140
The touchpad on this Samsung netbook allows users to scroll, pinch, and rotate objects on the 10.1-in. widescreen display. The preinstalled FailSafe service tracks the netbook if it’s lost, allowing users to retrieve, encrypt, or erase data remotely.

Gateway EC1440u
This notebook weighs just over three pounds, has an 11.6-in. HD widescreen LED-backlit display, multigesture touchpad, and up to six hours of battery life. The exterior has a glossy finish its manufacturer fancifully describes as “nightsky black”.

Dell Inspiron 11z
This 11.6-in. ultramobile laptop has a keyboard that is nearly the size of traditional laptop keyboards and is a part of the slimmest line offered by Dell.

HP Mini 110 by Studio Tord Boontje
This mini PC, introduced in September, was the first to use HP’s Imprint 3D technology to create a layered effect on the lid. Boontje, a well-known industrial designer, created a collage of endangered animals such as the polar bear, blue whale, and red squirrel for the exterior design—and created 15 wallpapers, a screen saver, and a desktop theme so users can customize the interior, too.

Dell Adamo XPS
Dell’s highly-anticipated 0.39-in. laptop is the latest addition to the manufacturer’s well-received, high-end Adamo line of laptops. The XPS will be installed with Windows 7 and be available to consumers later this year.

Top 10 most powerful nuclear tests

2012-08-06T10:07:00.001-07:00

Top 10 Nuclear Test Sites

For obvious reasons, most of the world’s sites for the testing of nuclear weapons are located in remote and little-known places, away from population areas and prying eyes. Although the sites may make the news whenever a weapon is tested, they are rarely anything but simply a name in the public consciousness. There are now 7 confirmed members of the nuclear club, and each of them at some stage has had to find some remote area to test their weapons. For some of them, lacking substantial areas of remoteness within their borders, this has meant either presuming on the friendship of other countries or simply grabbing hold of some far-flung place and using it despite objections from neighbors. Then there’s the problem of what to do after the testing is finished, which has generally turned out to be a major headache for all concerned. Here then are the top 10 nuclear test sites.

10.Koh Kambaran

The newest member of the nuclear club, Pakistan had a long lag-time between developing nuclear devices and actually testing them. Although it is reasonably certain that Pakistan possessed nuclear capability as early as 1983, their first nuclear test was not carried out until May 1998. Koh Kambaran itself had been chosen as a test site as early as 1976. Located in Baluchistan Province, the site was chosen because the mountain ranges above the underground site are composed of granite and provide at least a kilometer of protection between the explosion and the open air above. In addition the local population is sparse and consists mainly of nomadic herders. During the late 70′s a 1 km long tunnel was dug under the site. Pakistan’s political problems prevented any early testing of their devices and its wasn’t until May 28, 1998 that five nuclear devices were exploded in the course of one afternoon deep underground. The test was named Chagai-1 and was precipitated by India’s detonation of two nuclear devices early in May. According to the Pakistanis, the largest yield from one of the devices was up to 40 kilotons. However, Western sources believe the largest yield was actually less than 20 kilotons. Although Pakistan has carried out nuclear tests at other sites since, Koh Kambaran and Chagai-1 hold a special place in the Pakistani national consciousness and May 28 has been designated a public holiday entitled Day of National Greatness.

9.Maralinga

When the British started testing nuclear weapons in the late 1940s and early 1950s, they had the problem that nowhere in the British Isles themselves was really suitable for such tests. Fortunately, at the time, they had a rather large (although shrinking) Empire with plenty of remote space available. A number of sites were used, but perhaps the most controversial was their decision to persuade the then pro-Imperial government of Australia to allow testing in the Outback. Two sites in South Australia, Maralinga and Emu Field, were selected. Two tests were carried out at Emu Field in 1953 before a move to a permanent location at Maralinga. The small problem of a resident Aboriginal population was solved easily by forcibly relocating the native residents to a new community, although they persisted in wandering back to their old home. Two major sets of tests were carried out in 1956 and 1957, one of which was the first ever dropping of a nuclear device from an RAF aircraft. Testing continued until 1963. Clean-up operations continued until 1967, however the site remained dangerously radioactive. In the 1980s, major controversy developed when Aboriginals, Australian and British servicemen who had been exposed began exhibiting symptoms of radiation-related disease and cancers. A massive clean-up was initiated and the area was declared safe for visiting but not occupancy in 2000. Both Britain and Australia were forced to pay out massive compensation to their servicemen and the Aboriginals affected. However the resident Aboriginal population has never been allowed to return to their former home.

8.Pokhran

India began to develop its nuclear capability after fighting a border war with China in 1962 and several confrontations with Pakistan. Pokhran, in the state of Rajasthan, was chosen as its test site in the late 1960s. Although the Indian government claimed the site was in a remote desert area, it was near a population site. Pokhran was a town with a population of around 15000 when the first nuclear test was carried out at the nearby army base in September 1974. Designated Pokhran-1, the explosion yielded about 8 kilotons. In the face of worldwide condemnation, India claimed its only interest in nuclear power was for peaceful purposes and declared it would not build nuclear weapons. It wasn’t until May 11, 1998 that India carried out another test at the site. Designated Pokhran-2., four nuclear devices were detonated. On May 13, a thermonuclear weapon was also detonated. According to Western sources, none of the tests yielded the expected results and India cancelled testing of further devices. It has been claimed that India has dismantled its testing facilities at Pohkran but the Indian government will neither confirm nor deny this. However, the site remains heavily restricted and is off-limits to foreign observers. Any evidence that the residents of Pokhran itself have been affected by the nuclear tests has been kept secret by the Indian government.

7.Bikini Atoll

Although the US has conducted far more tests at other sites, Bikini Atoll, located in the Marshall Islands in the north-west Pacific, remains arguably the best-known nuclear test site of all time, partly because unlike other test sites, copious film and photographic evidence of tests here is in the public domain, and partly because the atoll gave its name to the two-piece bathing suit invented at about the same time as testing commenced here. Bikini was selected in late 1945 to be the successor testing ground to Trinity in New Mexico, where the devices dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki were developed. The island’s native population were moved to a nearby island with the assurance they would be back in 3 months. On July 1, 1946, the first peacetime detonation of a nuclear device was undertaken. The major subjects of the test were 250 obsolete and captured warships. Those ships not destroyed in that blast were subjected to a second test a month later. Between 1946 and 1954, some twenty tests were carried out. In 1957 the islands were declared safe, and some of the inhabitants allowed back, but they were forced to leave again after developing radiation sickness. The islands remain uninhabitable to this day, although it has become a popular spot for divers scouring the wrecks of the ships sunk in the initial tests. However, the site is so contaminated that fish caught in the vicinity cannot be safely eaten. Bikini Atoll was designated a World Heritage site in 2010.

6.Kiritimati

Probably unique as the only site where two different countries have tested their weapons, Kiritimati, once known as Christmas Island, is an atoll which is now part of the Republic of Kiribati. One of the most remote places on earth, located virtually in the centre of the Pacific almost equidistant between Australia and North America, the island was chosen as a test site by Britain in 1957 in order to test its hydrogen bomb, Further tests were carried in 1958, before the British abandoned the site. The US took over in 1962 and detonated 22 devices before it too abandoned the island as a test site in 1969. Throughout all of the testing the island’s small population remained on the island, and subsequently some of them, as well as servicemen from Britain, New Zealand and the US, have reported radiation-induced sickness and higher than normal cancer rates. Nevertheless, the island’s population has grown substantially since the tests and the native flora and fauna continue to flourish.

5.Lop Nur

The Chinese tested their first nuclear device at this isolated marshy area in the Bayingolin Autonomous Mongol Province in October 1964. The test, designated 596, yielded 22 kilotons. It was followed by 44 further tests, 22 of them in the atmosphere and 22 underground before the Chinese suspended testing in 1996. Among the weapons tested here was China’s first hydrogen bomb, detonated in 1967. The Chinese have never released details of the effects on the local population and the environment. The area is particularly sensitive because nearby is the location of the famous Tarim mummies, as well as substantial remains of their ancient culture dating back to 1800 BC. However, the Chinese have never allowed foreign observers to examine the site of the tests and it remains off-limits to locals and tourists alike.

4.Mururoa

Arguably the most controversial test site in the world, the French decision to test nuclear weapons in their remote territory of French Polynesia caused major friction with other Pacific nations, most notably Australia and New Zealand. Although the French used a number of different islands for testing, most of the concern rested on its use of Mururoa Atoll and its neighbor Fangataufa. Between 1966 and 1996, France conducted 41 atmospheric and 147 underground tests on these two islets. New Zealand, which had adopted a nuclear-free zone policy, was particularly upset by these tests and at one stage despatched a naval force to protest. There were grave environmental concerns after it was revealed continued underground testing at the site was threatening to crack the coral base of the islands and release radioactive material into the Pacific. Relations between France and NZ reached a new low when French agents bombed a Greenpeace vessel in Auckland Harbour in 1985, killing one person. Eventually, under intense international pressure, France declared an end to nuclear testing in the Pacific. The last test was carried out in January 1996, after which the site was dismantled. The site remains a sensitive one though, as observers have noted that dangerous radioactivity is still present and that the monitoring systems set up by the French are inadequate.

3.Novaya Zemlya

This remote and icy island above the Arctic Circle was subjected to 224 nuclear detonations by the Soviet Union between 1954 and 1990. Its main claim to fame is that in 1961, the largest ever nuclear detonation was carried out here, measuring over 100 megatons. However, the logistical problems of using this remote and inhospitable island meant it was never as favored for testing by the Soviets as the Semipalatinsk site in Kazakhstan. The last test was carried out here in 1990, just before the collapse of the Soviet Union, however, the Russian Federation has continued to use the site for low-level nuclear testing, short of detonation. The small native population who were removed in 1954 have never been allowed to return to their homes.

2.Semipalatinsk

This most favored site for Soviet nuclear testing has been since 1991 the property of the Republic of Kazakhstan, who inherited a wealth of health and environmental problems that may take generations to be fully calculated. The Soviets conducted a whopping 465 nuclear detonations here between 1949 and 1981. Originally constructed in the Stalinist era with slave labour from the gulag, it was here that Russia’s first nuclear weapon was detonated in 1949. It was always the subject of intense interest by the West and particularly the US, who directed numerous U2 flights and then spy satellites to watch over the site. As a consequence the Soviets sent most of their infrastructure underground to hide it from the spies in the skies. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, the site was handed over to the Kazakhs, who as signatories of the Central Asian Nuclear Free Zone treaty have declined to put it to the same use as the Soviets did. However, the health problems reported by some 220000 local residents including higher than average cancer rates will continue to exercise the minds of the Kazakh authorities for many years to come.

1.Nevada Test Site

Welcome to the most nuked place on the planet. A staggering 928 nuclear tests were carried out in this 3500 km square area of Nevada 107 km north of Las Vegas between 1951 and 1992, more than 800 of them underground. As a result the area has been left peppered with subsidence craters. In the early days the nuclear tests were almost a tourist attraction. Mobsters attempting to build the gambling business in Las Vegas offered viewings of nuclear explosions as an added lure to visitors. Thousands of films and pictures were taken and distributed around the world. Movie productions were made amidst the dust blowing from nuclear detonations. However, as the health implications of the tests became known, it ceased to be a site for tourist exploitation and became a serious concern for the US government. It has been revealed that the cancer rates in the area surrounding the test site are almost twice that of the US population. A significant increase in childhood leukemia has been noted in the years following the beginning of nuclear testing. Numerous lawsuits alleging health problems have been brought against the US government since 1982. Over $500 million has already been paid out in compensation, and it is estimated the eventual health bill from the Nevada Test Site may exceed $5 billion. In 2009 the Nevada Test Site was officially declared the second most radioactively contaminated spot on the planet after Chernobyl. It is believed that radiation levels in some areas of the site actually exceed those present in Hiroshima and Nagasaki immediately after the A-bombs were dropped in 1945.

10 Great Teen-Angst Films You Don’t Know

2012-08-06T09:52:00.001-07:00

10 Great Teen-Angst Films You Don’t Know

Teenage wildlife, left alone and uncared for by a world that – in the immortal words of many a teen – ‘just doesn’t understand,’ has always found sanctuary within the realm of cinema. Thousands of movies have been made starring these young-blooded, angst-ridden, girls and boys, acting upon their wildest instincts and impulses, their craziest dreams and desires. The films selected here come from all around the world, and sadly have not seen a bigger audience. However, I believe these films are the quintessence of teen-angst: their characters are sometimes incomprehensible, but fully alive; their values are corrosive, even amoral to a point; their moments are intense, ephemeral, eternally in the present moment. Some trailers below contain disturbing content. If you like this list you should also check out our Top 10 Dark Themed Teen Movies.

10.Throw Away Yours Books
Shuji Terayama, 1971

Full Title: Throw Away Yours Books, Rally in the Streets

One of Japan’s foremost avant-garde directors brings us this anthem of the marginalized youth. Utilizing a fractured and fragmented narrative involving a psychological foray into the tragic alienation and disenfranchisement of countless Japanese citizens during that era, a radical call for revolution among the young counter-cultural generation of Japan, and a dizzying psychedelic aesthetic, the film brings home the fact that when history is on the precipice of a new dawn, the moment will belong to the young. The NSFW trailer is here.

9.Don’t Deliver Us From Evil
Joel Seria, 1971

Without a doubt, one of the most blasphemous and sacrilegious films ever to be put on celluloid, it is surely one of the best films ever made about the incomprehensible irrationality of teenage years. Two best friends, Anne and Lore, reside at a convent school where they take a vow to serve Satan. What happens afterwards is something akin to the trouble-making antics in films such as Problem Child, but in this film the acts are much more perverse and ultimately destructive. As a blazing F-you to religion, parents, suburbia, and literally everything under the sun, this films definitely deserves a spot on this list. The disturbing trailer is here.

8.Cold Water
Olivier Assayas, 1994

There is always a thrill, desperate and melancholic, that permeates teenage romances. Olivier Assayas’ autobiographical tale could arguably be the most melancholic and desperate of all teenage romances. It’s 1972, and Gilles and Christine are two fresh-faced sixteen year-old lovers looking for a way out of their seemingly miserable lives. They find temporary solutions in rock and roll, hardcore drugs of any kind, and eventually crime. After all these attempts at happiness, the only option available to the young lovers is to run away from home and into the cold dark night. It would be hard not to relate to the film’s feelings of wistful and in the end tragic romance.

7.A Swedish Love Story
Roy Andersson, 1970

Yet another adolescent romance, this time set in Sweden, but unlike the previous French film, this has more of a subtle, graceful tone instead of an urgently tragic one. Set against the backdrop an old generation crumbling before the latest period in history, the time is ripe for new love to bloom. Going against the conformity and frustration of their parents, fifteen year-old Pär and fourteen year-old Annika fall madly, deeply, in love. It is a fragile film, full of meaningful but flittering looks and glances between the two lovers, evoking a sense of the awkwardness and delicacy of those first teenage years.

6.Fudoh: The New Generation
Takashi Miike, 1996

At first glance, a lot of people won’t consider this a film of teenage angst, for the reason that Takashi Miike’s trademark ultra-violence and perverse deliriousness gets kicked into another gear and becomes the focal point anytime one tries to discuss this early work by the master. Witnessing the death of his brother at the hands of his yakuza father, the surviving son swears vengeance against all those linked to his brother’s death. Not only is it a masked critique on patriarchy in modern day Japan, but it is first and foremost a blood-stained declaration of the young generation replacing the corrupt old fogeys, by whatever means necessary.

5.Timeless, Bottomless Bad Movie
Jang Sun-woo, 1997

Along with the first entry, this Korean film is probably the most experimental film on this list. And once again, this is a film about the old and new generations – the former represented by a group of street bums and the latter by a juvenile delinquent street gang. But it isn’t about the clash between these two different groups, but their similarities. Focusing predominately on the delirious and dizzying activities of the young street gang, one gets the sense that these characters, these roaming animals, don’t have a future, and will never have one, for the sole reason that the young can only live in the now of things, and nowhere else.

4.Deep End
Jerzy Skolimowski, 1970

Is there any other film character in existence that is as painfully awkward as Mike, the fifteen year-old protagonist in Deep End? Mike has just taken a job at the local swimming bathhouse, and there he meets and becomes obsessed with an attractive woman who is much older than him. This woman is also engaged, and yet this doesn’t stop Mike one bit. Growing pains has never been so painful, and never has a coming-of-age story been filmed with as much urgency and desperation as this mostly unknown seventies masterpiece.

3.Zero for Conduct
Jean Vigo, 1932

Gleefully directed by one of cinema’s arch anarchists, this early film is one of the most influential acts of rebellion in all of cinema. An autobiographical tale, directly coming from the director’s own experiences as a teen, and only forty-one minutes long, this short film about boarding school students turned berserk contains a famous surrealistic sequence of a pillow fight in slow motion that powerfully epitomizes the unfettered energy of the young at heart. Bursting with joy and anarchy, this is one of cinema’s supreme statements on teen angst; it’s only unfortunate that Vigo did not make more films. The full movie is embedded above.

2.A Brighter Summer Day
Edward Yang, 1991

Taking place during the director’s adolescent years, the film is about Xiao S’ir who gets involved with a local youth gang and in the process falls in love with the gang leader’s girlfriend. Still this summary isn’t adequate for the Tolstoy-ian proportions of this four hour Taiwanese masterpiece. There’s rock music, failing fathers and mothers, violence, history, etc. But the main point of this film is that those who desire to run away from the times they are living in – namely, the teenagers – are the ones who are most affected by those times, in often destructive ways. This is my favourite film of all time, and it stays at number 2 because there is one other film that deals with teen angst in all its rebelliousness even more fervently.

1.Times Square
Allan Moyle, 1980

Two teenage girls by chance meet up in a mental institution. One is the rich daughter of a political candidate; the other is an impoverished wannabe rock star. The two decide to run away, for good. This is one of the few films which show teenagers actually being comfortable in their marginality, their recklessness, the muck and the filth. Teenagers who scream out that they don’t give a damn about parents, institutions, society! Featuring a soundtrack consisting of Talking Heads, Lou Reed, XTC, Roxy Music – music becomes an impetus for the two girls as they walk around this world that doesn’t understand them one bit. If it weren’t for each other, they’d be alone, but now they’re alive. And that’s what being a teenager is all about.

Top 10 Crazy Olympic Mascots

2012-08-04T16:26:00.001-07:00

It’s Olympic season, which means only one thing: people dressed up in funny outfits. And that’s not referring to the athletes themselves. Ever since the first official mascot was unveiled in 1972 (‘Waldi’ the dachshund for the Munich Olympics in Germany), mascots have become a fundamental part of the Olympics; a crowd-pandering means to celebrate the hosting nation’s rich, historically-based sense of tradition, as well that of the Olympic games themselves. While that all sounds properly-motivated, sometimes the products of such overbearing enthusiasm aren’t quite as pleasant as the sentiment. And thus, here are ten of the craziest Olympic mascots to date.

10.Schneeman the Snowman
When Innsbruck, Austria hosted the 1976 winter Olympics, they needed a mascot that best represented their country as well as the chilly-season games, so they went with a stubby sort of snowman – who wears a Tyrolean, cowboy-looking hat – named Schneeman. He is, after all, supposed to represent what was referred to as the ‘Games of Simplicity.’ While Scheenman may indeed be categorically a snowman, he looks a lot more like one of the M&Ms mascots, with his torso-head hybrid and molded shoes/gloves where twigs and a large ball of snow should be.

9.Hidy and Howdy
Named deliberately after folky sorts of greetings, these cowboy-dressed polar bears aimed to represent Western Canadian hospitality. Employed during the 1988 Calgary Olympics, these giant, furry bear suits came off less hospitable than they did just plain creepy, looking like cheap teddy bears with five o’clock shadows – creepier still knowing a grown (and likely sweaty) man was hiding inside.

8.Magique
The 1992 Winter Olympics in Albertville, France brought another weird winter symbol to the proverbial snow lodge via ‘Magique the snow imp,’ which was a part-man part-star hybrid, that sounds biochemically impossible. And for that reason, this mascot represents imagination, dreams, and the idea of ‘shooting for the stars’ – a sort of reminder that these games aren’t all about the scoreboards and rulebooks. Side note: Magique was opted for over a much more earthbound ‘Chamois the mountain goat.’

7.Hakon and Kristin
These Norwegian children served as dual mascots for the 1994 Winter Olympics in Lillehammer, Norway. While their innocence is implied – shown holding hands, smiling and waving – it is lost to a degree as they are also shown wearing traditional viking clothing; vikings, of course, renowned for their brutality and savagery (at least according to popular conception, and largely biased historical accounts). Topically Norwegian as it is, you’d think a more pleasant slice of history could be evoked.

6.Izzy
Izzy might as well have been a giant question mark. Izzy was first introduced at the end of the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, at the time going by the name “Whatizit.” Created by a design firm called DESIGNefx, the mascot was later modified into its final form – an oblong, amorphous, indefinite blue mess of thing with a face and tennis shoes – for the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia. Not reflective of any kind of U.S. nationalism or tradition, it was the first computer-designed mascot and likely meant to somehow represent the budding silicon age, although it look more like a melted computer mouse. Izzy has been the subject of T.V. specials and video games, all of which underscore the overall meaninglessness of the mascot.

5.Athena and Phevos
The 2004 Summer Olympics were the second official Olympic games held in Greece since the ancient games, held originally by the Greeks as a means to honor Zeus. This tradition of traditions had to be honored somehow, and the way they elected to do it through two children – named Athena and Phevos – who were supposed to be from present-day, but also fashioned after ancient Greek dolls (as a way to merge the ideals of antiquity and modernity). The result is a Erlenmeyer flask-looking pair, with disproportionately wide feet and long necks. Maybe children actually looked like this in ancients times… (unlikely).

4.Neve and Gliz
Cute as these mascots are – used in the 2006 Olympics in Turin, Italy – Neve and Gliz symbolized winter. And how simply: Neve (meaning ‘snow’ in Italian) was a man with a personified snowball for a head; Gliz (short for the Italian word meaning ‘ice’ – ‘ghiaccio’) was Neve’s ice cube-equivalent and counterpart. The two in the end looked something like the Blockheads from Gumby. Oh yeah, and the snowball is supposed to be a chick, while the ice cube is most definitely a dude.

3.The ‘Fuwa’
As if one mascot (or even two weren’t enough), here are five. Named Beibei, Jingjing, Huanhuan, Yingying, and Nini (in order) – and appearing during the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, China – the names are arranged to form the Chinese phrase “Beijing huan ying ni” which means ‘Beijing welcomes you.’ As far as each personality goes – a fish, a panda, an Olympic flame, a Tibetan antelope, and a swallow – they represent each of the five Olympic rings, as well as the five Feng Shui elements.

2.Miga, Quatchi, Sumi, and Mukmuk
As Olympic mascots have started becoming more Yo Gabba Gabba!-like, these four (well, three and a ‘sidekick’) are no exception; created for the purposes of the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, British Columbia in Canada, they each represented mythical creatures appearing in Canadian and Northwestern U.S. urban legends (which makes sense seeing as how they were designed by a Canadian and an American pair, which comprises Meomi Design). Miga is a sea bear (Orca whale-kermode bear hybrid) that likes to surf and snowboard in the Vancouver region. Quatchi is a big-foot- or sasquatch-type character that carries a camera, likes to travel, and dreams of being a hockey goalie. Sumi, a ‘spirit animal’ with Thunderbird-wings and black bear-legs, is a nature-lover. Mukmuk is a friendly Marmot (a.k.a their under-developed side-kick), whose name comes from the Chinuk Wawa word which means ‘food’/’to eat,’ Mukmuk being typified by his large appetite.

1.Wenlock and Mandeville
This year’s mascot for the London 2012 olympic games boasts a certainty to be as head-scratching as tradition will allow. Named Wenlock and Mandeville (as tributes to the locations of the first two London-hosted Olympics), the two are characterized simply as ‘steel drops with cameras for eyes,’ symbolic of the Industrial Revolution in London (although the Terminator/T-1000 are evoked more effectively).

2013 cars coming out

2012-08-04T04:39:00.001-07:00

2013 Acura ILX
Acura has been selling a Civic-based compact sedan called the CSX in other markets (including Canada) for several years; we reviewed one in 2007 and found it to be little more than, well, a gussied-up Civic. I expected more of the same from the ILX, but Acura has gone out of their way to differentiate this car from it's Honda platform-mate. The ILX will hit showrooms in the spring of 2012 with a starting price around $30,000. Engine choices include a 2-liter base engine, the 2.4 liter engine and 6-speed manual found in the Civic Si, and a gas-electric drivetrain borrowed from the Honda Civic Hybrid. This will be Acura's first hybrid, but EPA fuel economy estimates are only 35 MPG city/35 MPG highway. (At least the Lexus HS 250h need no longer suffer alone.)

2013 Acura RDX
This is the redesigned version of the Acura RDX, based on the just-introduced Honda CR-V. Gone is the old RDX's exclusive turbocharged engine; the new RDX is powered by Honda's venerable 3.5 liter V6. The new engine develops more power and gets better gas mileage.

2013 Audi A4 Allroad Quattro
Audi is re-introducing the A4 Allroad, essentially an Audi A4 Avant wagon with a raised suspension and Outback-style body cladding, with sheetmetal that echoes the facelifted 2013 Audi A4.

2013 Audi S6
This is the high performance version of the Audi A6, which was introduced as a 2012 model. Power for the S6 comes from a 4.0 liter twin-turbo V8 producing 420 horsepower, a 7-speed twin-clutch transmission, and -- of course -- all-wheel-drive.

2013 Audi S7
Audi's high-performance hatchback shares its 420 horsepower 4-liter twin-turbo V8 with the S6.

2013 Audi S8
Audi's high-power all-aluminum flagship is returning for 2013. The S8 shares its 4.0 liter twin-turbo V8 with the S6 and S7, but the S8 gets an extra hundred horsepower for a total of 520.

2013 Chevrolet Camaro ZR1 Convertible
For 2013, Chevrolet will add a drop-top version of the Camaro ZL1, which gets a 580 horsepower version of the Corvette ZR-1's supercharged 6.2 liter V8.

2014 Audi Q3
The Q3 is a small SUV that Audi recently introduced in Europe; Audi plans to introduce it to the North American market in late 2013 as a 2014 model. Shown here is the "Vail" concept version shown at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show, complete with ski rack. This show car is powered by a 314 hp 5-cylinder turbocharged engine, but we'll probably see smaller engines in the production version.

2013 Bentley Continental GT V8

This, believe it or not, is the economy-minded version of the Continental GT. In place of the Continental's 567 hp W12 engine, this one gets a twin-turbo 4-liter V8 that produces a mere 500 horsepower, and cuts out four cylinders while cruising to save fuel.

2013 Buick Encore

The Encore is Buick's new micro-SUV. Based on the same platform as the Chevrolet Sonic, the Encore is powered by the 1.4 liter turbocharged engine from the href="http://cars.about.com/od/chevrolet/fr/2011-Chevrolet-Cruze-Test-Drive.htm">Chevrolet Cruze.

2013 Cadillac ATS

This is the new baby Caddy: The rear-wheel-drive 2013 ATS. Engine choices include -- and I never in a million years dreamed that I'd see a list like this in a Cadillac -- a 200 hp 2.5 liter four-cylinder, a 270 hp 2-liter turbo four, and our old familiar friend the 3.6 liter V6, here tuned for 320 horsepower. Options include manual or automatic transmissions and an FE3 sports suspension with dynamic magnetic-fluid shock absorbers. Compared to the CTS, the ATS is about 8" shorter and 4.5" narrower.

2013 Cadillac XTS

The 2013 Cadillac XTS will replace both the STS and DTS. Power comes from GM's venerable 300 horsepower 3.6 liter V6 with front- or all-wheel-drive, but the real story is inside, where the XTS gets Caddy's new CUE infotainment system.

2013 Chevrolet Camaro ZR1 Convertible

For 2013, Chevrolet will add a drop-top version of the Camaro ZL1, which gets a 580 horsepower version of the Corvette ZR-1's supercharged 6.2 liter V8.

2013 Chevrolet Corvette 42

Although it's called the Corvette 427 -- actually, the Corvette 427 Convertible Collector's Edition -- is essentially a Z06 convertible, complete with 505 horsepower 7-liter (427 cubic inch) V8.

2013 Chevrolet Malibu

The all-new mid-size Malibu debuts in 2012 as 2013 model. Styling is similar to the current Malibu but features enhanced aerodynamics and rear taillights similar to the Camaro. The base engine is an all-new 2.5 liter four-cylinder, and the Malibu Eco model will resurrect GM's belt-alternator-starter "mild hybrid" system (now renamed eAssist), which will help boost the EPA fuel economy estimates to compact-car levels: 26 MPG city/38 MPG highway.

2013 Chevrolet Sonic RS

The 2013 Chevrolet Sonic RS is essentially a souped-up version of the 2012 Sonic. The RS gets a stiffer suspension, louder exhaust, rear disc brakes, sport seats, and a few extra interior and exterior details. There's no power upgrade, but that's okay -- the 1.4 liter turbo generates plenty of smiles. Chevrolet noted that the RS will be available with an automatic transmission; as of now, the 1.4 turbo only comes with a manual.

2013 Chevrolet Spark

We've seen the Chevrolet Spark -- it's been on sale in Korea for a couple of years now -- but the micro-Chevy is finally due to appear in the States (and Canada). Power comes from a tiny 1.2 liter 4-cylinder engine that delivers its 85 horsepower through either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. The Spark gets 10 airbags as standard equipment, and a navigation system is optional.

2013 Dodge Dart

Dodge is bringing back the Dart nameplate for their new compact sedan, which is based on the same Fiat-sourced platform as the Alfa-Romeo Giulietta, although it shares styling cues with the Dodge Charger. Power choices include the new 2-liter Tigershark four-cylinder, producing 160 hp; a 1.4 liter turbocharged version of the MultiAir engine found in the Fiat 500, also at 160 hp but with more torque; and the 184 hp 2.4 liter Tiger Shark. Pricing for the Dart will start at $15,995 plus destination, and Chrysler's Mopar division has already announced a line of aftermarket parts.

2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid/Energi

Ford's new C-Max is a 7-seat crossover currently sold in Europe. Here in the US, the C-Max will be a 5-seater with either hybrid or plug-in hybrid ("Energi") powertrains, both based around a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle 4-cylinder engine.

2013 Ford Escape

Ford's new Escape is a radical change from the old version; it's now identical to Ford's European-market small SUV, the Kuga. The new shape brings it more into line with competitors like the Honda CR-V (also new at the show) and the Toyota RAV4.

2013 Ford Fusion

Ford's mid-size Fusion sedan has been redesigned in conjunction with the European-market Mondeo, from which it inherets its cutting-edge styling. The new Fusion features an array of high-tech powerplants: Along with our old familier friend, the 2.5 liter 5-cylinder, the Fusion will be offered with 1.6 and 2.0 liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine, a 2-liter hybrid, and a plug-in hybrid called the Fusion Energi.

2013 Ford Shelby GT500

When I first saw the new Mustang's V8 engine, I could tell there was room for a supercharger between the heads and below the intake manifold. Well, here it is -- with a new Shelby GT500 wrapped around it. The new super snake produces 650 horsepower, so look out, Camaro ZL-1.

2013 Ford Taurus

The Taurus gets minor styling tweaks designed to make it look more like an Audi. More importantly, the Taurus will get the 2-liter EcoBoost engine, a turbocharged and direct-injected four-cylinder engine designed to deliver the power of a V6 (237 hp) with the mileage of a four (31 MPG highway). I've driven this engine in the Edge SUV and it's fantastic. The 3.5 liter V6 has been boosted to 290 hp, and the Taurus has a host of new optional gadgets including massaging seats, automatic high-beams and rain-sensing wipers.

2013 Ford Taurus SHO

When the Taurus SHO returned in 2010, some people were a bit underwhelmed by the driving dynamics. Ford has responded: Along with revised styling, the 2013 Taurus SHO gets an optional Performance Package with a stiffer suspension, upgraded brakes, recalibrated steering, and a "track mode" stability control system that can be shut completely off. Now we're talking!

2013 Honda Accord Concept

Although Honda officially labels this as a concept car, in keeping with Honda tradition, it's pretty close to the restyled Accord Coupe that will debut in the fall of 2012. The base 2.4 liter engine gains direct fuel injection for an increase to 181 horsepower, while the 3.5 liter V6 will return -- and you will once again be able to get it with a 6-speed manual trans. That's good news, as the current Accord coupe is a lot of fun to drive, even though enthusiasts often overlook it. Honda will also make a plug-in hybrid version which will be able to run 12 to 15 miles on pure battery power at speeds of up to 62 MPH.

2013 Honda Fit EV

The new battery-powered version of Honda's venerable Fit has an EPA-rated range of 76 miles -- 3 more miles than the Nissan Leaf -- and boasts similar space and versatility as the gas-powered version. Honda will offer the Fit on lease for $399 per month.

2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe

For 2013, the Hyundai Genesis Coupe gets a new look and improved drivetrains: The 2-liter turbocharged four jumps from 210 horsepower to 274 courtesy of a new turbocharger and intercooler, while the 3.8 liter V6 gets direct fuel injection and an increase from 306 hp to 348.

2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo

Right on the heels of the 2012 Hyundai Veloster comes the hot-rod version, the Veloster Turbo, powered by a 201 horsepower turbocharged and intercooled version of the 1.6 liter Gamma engine. A bigger grille provides better airflow and a more menacing look. Fuel economy ratings are 27 city/38 highway, which is not far from the non-turbo version. Note the matte-gray paint, which will be optional.

2013 Infiniti JX

Infiniti's new 7-seat JX crossover slots in between the QX and the FX. Like the new Nissan Pathfinder, the JX is based on a stretched Nissan Murano platform. It will compete against other luxury 7-seaters like the Buick Enclave and Lincoln MKT.

2013 Lexus GS

The new version of the Lexus GS is aimed squarely at the BMW 5-series, with more aggressive styling outside and in and a choice of conventional or hybrid powertrains.

2013 Lexus LX570
And speaking of Lexus design language, the fascia from the 2013 Lexus GS has been grafted onto the Land Cruiser-based LX 570 SUV. Other changes are fairly minor.

2013 Lincoln MKS
The MKS has been subtly but substantially updated. Along with a new grille and refined interior, the MKS gets more power for both its normally-aspirated and turbocharged engines and driver-adjustable shock absorbers.

2013 Lincoln MKT

The 2013 MKT gets similar changes to the MKS: A new grille, upgraded engines, and an adjustable suspension.

2013 Mercedes E-Class Hybrid

This is Mercedes' new E400 hybrid, which, as you might be able to tell, is rated for 27 MPG. Don't worry, they won't all be painted like this...we hope.

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550

Mercedes concentrated on shaving weight when they developed the new SL550; its aluminum structure that sheds nearly 250 lbs compared to the old car. With a 4.6 liter twin turbo V8 producing 429 hp and a 7-speed automatic, Mercedes says the SL550 will make it to 60 MPH in 4.5 seconds, while an auto start/stop system helps improve fuel economy.

2013 MINI Roadster

This is the convertible version of the two-seat MINI Cooper Coupe, which will be sold right alongside the Cooper convertible, a convertible version of the Cooper hatchback. Confused? Yeah, me too. But one thing I can say: The Coupe/Roadster looks a heck of a lot better with the roof off.

2013 Nissan Pathfinder

While the Pathfinder's chief competitor, the Toyota 4Runner, has remained resolutely off-road ready, the 2013 Pathfinder is (once again) trading in its body-on-frame configuration for a slick unibody design.The seven-seat Pathfinder is based on a stretched Nissan Murano platform.

2013 Porsche 911 Cabriolet

Porsche has introduced a new hardtop 911 Carrera and Carrera S for 2012; the convertible versions will follow as 2013 models.

2013 Scion FR-S

This is the Scion version of the joint Toyota/Subaru-developed sports car. The rear-wheel-drive FRS uses a Subaru-style flat-four (or "boxer") engine with Toyota-developed direct fuel injection, although power output is a lukewarm 200 hp and 150 lb-ft. The FR-S is home to Scion's latest voice-activated infotainment system.

2013 Subaru BRZ

The Subie version of the Subaru/Toyota sports car is called the BRZ. Unusually for Subaru, it is a rear-drive vehicle, not all-wheel-drive; as with the similar Scion FR-S, it will be powered by a 2-liter flat-four engine (a different engine from the one found in the 2012 Impreza tuned for 200 hp and 150 lb-ft. Subaru has not announced plans for a turbo version, although they did show a BRZ STI concept car at the 2011 Los Angeles auto show, and it's hard to imagine Subaru not doing a turbocharged, all-wheel-drive version.

2013 Toyota Prius C

Look out, Honda Insight: This is Toyota's new Yaris-sized hybrid, and it will have a price tag under $20,000. The Prius C has a 99 horsepower 1.5 liter engine -- smaller and less powerful than the one in the grown-up Prius -- but Toyota says it will be nimbler and more engaging to drive, with a combined EPA MPG estimate of 50 MPG

2013 Volkswagen CC
Volkswagen's updated CC gets a new front fascia similar to the 2012 Passat and 2011 Jetta. The 2013 CC will offer an optional five-seat interior in addition to the twin rear buckets of the current car.

2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid
Most automakers offer a choice of hybrids or diesels, but starting in 2013, the Jetta will be one of the few cars to offer a hybrid and a diesel. The hybrid Jetta uses a 150 horsepower 1.4 liter turbocharged engine and a 7-speed twin-clutch transmission, and while it's not a plug-in, it can run for short distances on electric power only at speeds up to 44 MPH. The EPA combined estimate is 45 MPG, better than the diesel-powered Jetta TDI.

Top 20 Football Players Of All Time

2012-08-03T14:30:00.000-07:00

There has been much debate over the best footballers and rightly so, considering the sheer amount of players and the vastness of ‘the beautiful game’. It is astonishing how FIFA has more members than the UN. Played simply everywhere, today I would like to introduce this list which will, I expect, gather criticism, but constructive criticism is appreciated as always – so please feel free to speak up!

20.Lillian Thuram
One of the best defenders of all time from France, he is famous for his 2 goals in the 1998 world cup semi final against Croatia when France came from behind to win 2-1. France eventually won the world cup beating Brazil 3-0. At club level, he has played in AS Monaco, Juventus and FC Barcelona.

19.Roberto Carlos
He has played for Spanish club Real Madrid for eleven years, winning four leagues, three UEFA Champions League trophies, and two Intercontinental Cups. He is also one of only six players to have played more than one hundred matches in the Champions League. He is especially famous for a free kick against France on June 3, 1997, where he shot from 35 m (110 ft) from the centre-right channel, and scored.

18.David Beckham
David Beckham is a leading English footballer whose popularity extends beyond the field and into international celebrity. Beckham was already a crowd-pleasing star for Manchester United when he married Spice Girls star Victoria Adams in July of 1999; the combination proved irresistible to the press and public, and they became one of Britain’s most famous couples. As a player Beckham is particularly known for his free kick expertise and spectacular long-range shots while his right foot is the national treasure of England.

17.Oliver Kahn
One of the most successful German players in recent history, having won eight German championships, six German cups, the UEFA Cup (1996), the UEFA Champions League and the Intercontinental Cup (both 2001). His individual contributions have earned him four consecutive UEFA Best European Goalkeeper awards, three IFFHS World’s Best Goalkeeper of the Year awards and two German “Footballer of the Year” trophies.

16.Zico
Often called the White Pelé, he is commonly considered one of the most skilled dribblers and finishers ever and possibly the world’s best player of the early 80′s. He was also known as one of history’s greatest free kick specialists, able to bend the ball with pace and accuracy as well as having an extremely powerful shot.

15.Lev Yashin
A superb goalkeeper, perhaps the best in the history of the game, he was a Soviet sports hero. Yashin spent his playing career with the Moscow Dynamo club, and after retirement was a coach there. Dynamo won five league championships and three cups due in large part to Yashin’s domination of the goal. Yashin’s playing was an important element in the Soviet national team’s gold medal win at the 1956 Olympics, and he tended goal for the team in three World Cups. He became the only goalkeeper to be named European footballer of the year, and was awarded the title of world goalkeeper of the 20th cent. Fondly known as the black spider (after his Black Goal keeper uniform..

14.Ronald Koeman
Besides being a defender at the centre back position, Koeman was also known for his powerful right-footed free kicks and dead ball ability where he scored many vital goals for the team, and it was from a free-kick that he scored FC Barcelona’s winning goal in the 1992 European Cup final. Ronald Koeman scored 193 league goals in 503 matches (ahead of Daniel Passarella who netted 182 goals in 556 matches) during his career, more than any other defender in the history of football.

13.Luis Figo
Figo is a football hero who began his professional career in Portugal, his native land, then made his name in Spain playing for powerhouse teams FC Barcelona and Real Madrid before switching to Inter Milan in 2005. With his deft stop-and-go dribbling and aggressive style, the midfielder is known more as a playmaker than as a pure scorer. His breakthrough year was 2000, when he led Portugal to the semifinals of Euro 2000 and was named European Footballer of the Year. The same year he moved from FC Barcelona to rival Real Madrid for a then-record fee of $56 million.

12.Alvaro Recoba
Recoba’s strengths are his dribbling, technique, pace and a strong, accurate left-foot shot. He is a free-kick specialist, and has scored goals of great quality, examples of which were his two goals during his debut with Inter, and basically all the goals scored during his time at Venezia. It is said that few, if any, have been born with Recoba’s ability; however, his mentality continues to fail him at the most crucial moments.

11.Alfredo di Stefano
Nicknamed Saeta rubia (Blond arrow), was a powerful forward with great stamina and tactical versatility. He could also play anywhere on the pitch and despite being well-known as a forward, was great in defense. He is currently the 3rd highest scorer in the history of Spain’s top division, with 228 goals in 329 games. Di Stéfano is also Real Madrid’s highest league goalscorer of all time, with 216 goals in 282 league matches.

10.Raul Gonzalez
Called the ‘Angel of Madrid’ and simply known as Raúl, he is a Spanish football striker who plays for Spanish La Liga club Real Madrid. Also the three-time winner of the UEFA Champions League and is the second all-time leading scorer in official UEFA competitions after Filippo Inzaghi with 64 goals. He took over the captaincy of Real Madrid when Fernando Hierro departed in 2003, and has since shown himself to be a natural and respected leader.

9.Michael Platini
Platini was a member of the French national team that won the 1984 European Championship, a tournament in which he was voted the best player and top goalscorer. Platini, Alain Giresse, Luis Fernández and Jean Tigana together made up the “carré magique” (magic square), the group of midfield players that formed the heart of the French national team throughout the 1980s. He is also widely regarded as one the best passers in football history as well as one of history’s greatest free kick specialists and finishers. He holds the record for most goals scored in European Championship final.

8.Carlos Alberto Torres
is a former Brazilian footballer, one of the most highly regarded defenders of all time. He captained Brazil to victory in the 1970 World Cup and is a member of the World Team of the 20th Century, as well as the U.S. National Soccer Hall of Fame. Carlos Alberto’s goal against Italy in the final of the Football World Cup 1970 is considered one of the greatest goals ever scored in the history of the tournament.

7.Ronaldo
A brilliant and fluid forward, Ronaldo became one of international soccer’s great stars of the 1990s and Brazil’s biggest soccer hero since Pele. Nicknamed “The Phenomenon,” the talented forward has played for Cruzeiro, Eindhoven, Barcelona, Inter Milan, Real Madrid and AC Milan, amassing numerous records, championships, and cups. An international superstar, Ronaldo has been on the Brazilian national team since 1994 and was part of World Cup–winning teams in 1998 and in 2002, when he was the tournament’s top scorer

6.Gerd Müller
Müller was short, squat, awkward-looking and not notably fast; he never fit the conventional idea of a great footballer, but he had lethal acceleration over short distances, a remarkable aerial game, and uncanny goalscoring instincts. He could turn quickly and with perfect balance in small spaces at speeds that would cause other players to fall over. He also had a knack of scoring in unlikely situations. With national records of 68 goals in 62 international appearances, 365 goals in 427 Bundesliga games and the international record of 66 goals in 74 European Club games, he was by far the most successful striker of his day.

5.Johann Cruyff
Cruyff is a former Dutch football player and manager/coach. He was named European Footballer of the Year three times. In 1999, Cruyff was voted European Player of the Century in an election held by the IFFHS, and came second, behind Pelé in their World Player of the Century poll. Cruyff was known for his technical ability, speed and acceleration, but his greatest quality was vision, based on an acute sense of his team-mates’ positions as an attack unfolded. He is believed Cruyff superior to any previous player in his ability to extract the most from others.

4.Franz Beckenbauer
German football (soccer) player. He is credited with inventing the modern attacking sweeper position. Nicknamed “Der Kaiser,” Beckenbauer is the only man to both captain and manage World Cup-winning teams (1974 and 1990, respectively). He spent most of his career with Bayern Munich, leading the team to three European Cup championships and four national titles. He was named European Footballer of the Year in 1972 and 1976. He is generally regarded as the greatest German footballer of all time and also as one of the greatest footballers in the history of the game.

3.Diego Maradona
Maradona is an icon in Argentina. As a soccer player, he took his team to new heights and became a hero to sports fans – many of whom referred to him as “San Diego.” He also took sports paychecks to new heights, claiming unheard of salaries in trade after trade. Maradona was plagued by cocaine addiction, though, and his career came to an early end. His performance included two memorable goals against England, one scored with his hand (the referee mistakenly thought the ball struck his head) and now remembered as the “Hand of God,” and another that saw him dribble through a pack of defenders.

2.Pele
born 1940
Pele – called “the Black Pearl,” was the greatest soccer player in the history of the game. With a career total of 1280 goals, he may have been the world’s most popular athlete after he was named Athlete of the Century by the world’s combined National Olympic Committees in 1999, though he never played in the Olympics himself. In March of 2002, the jersey Pelé wore in the 1970 World Cup final sold at auction for $220,850. Pelé became Brazil’s minister of sports in 1995, serving until 1998.

1.Zinedine Zidane
Popularly nicknamed Zizou, he is a French former football midfielder. His career accomplishments include winning the 1998 FIFA World Cup and Euro 2000, in addition to the 2002 UEFA Champions League. He is also one of only two three-time FIFA World Player of the Year winners. Zidane won the Golden Ball as the MVP in the World Cups of 1998 and 2006. Zidane played his first professional First Division game for Cannes and quickly rose through the professional ranks. He sealed his reputation by scoring two goals in the World Cup finals of 1998, helping France defeat Brazil to claim its first-ever World Cup championship. Extremely passionate and a leader by example, he came first in an online poll conducted by UEFA.

Top 10 Female Body Builders

2012-08-02T06:37:00.003-07:00

1. KIM CHIZEVSKY

Chizevsky earned her pro card by winning the 1992 IFBB North American Championship, competing at 147 pounds (67 kg). She had moderate success in her first few years of pro competition, including winning the 1993 Ms. International, but the Ms. Olympia title eluded her. Chizevsky finally unseated six-time defending champion Lenda Murray in 1996, and started a four year reign of her own. Over the years she continued to gradually add size to her 5-foot-8-inch (1.73 m) frame; at the 1997 Ms. Olympia, she competed at 157 pounds (71 kg). Chizevsky decided to retire from bodybuilding after winning the 1999 Ms. Olympia. She gave up much of her muscle gains and began competing in fitness and figure competitions in 2001 with only limited success.

2. IRIS KYLE

Iris Kyle was born in 1974 in Benton Harbor, Michigan,the fifth of six children. Her early athletic endeavors included running cross country, basketball (point guard), and softball (shortstop). She was an All-American in basketball, and received a number of athletic scholarship offers. Iris attended Alcorn State University inLorman, Mississippi on a basketball scholarship, majoring in business administration.

3. YAXENI ORIQUEN

Yaxeni was born the youngest of nine children (four brothers and four sisters). Yaxeni won four amateur contests in 1993, earning her pro card in the process. She then moved to the United States. Her most noteworthy achievement as a professional has been winning the Ms. Olympia title in 2005. She has also won four Ms. International titles, in 2002, 2003, 2005, and 2008. At a height of 5 ft 7 in, her contest weight is typically around 160 lb, though she weighs around 185 lb during the off-season. She now lives in Miami Beach, Florida with her husband and son, and works as a personal trainer at Crunch in South Beach.

4.LENDA MURRAY

Murray was born in 1962 in Detroit, Michigan. At Henry Ford High School, Murray was both a record-holding sprinter and varsity cheerleader. She went on to attend Western Michigan University, earning a degree in political science. While at Western Michigan, she continued to cheerlead, and became the second African American to be chosen as the university’s homecoming queen in 1982 (Todd, 1999).
After a brief tenure cheerleading for the Michigan Panthers in the now-defunct United States Football League, Murray took to the bodybuilding stage in 1985. She rose quickly through the ranks, soon winning contests at the state and regional levels.

5. CORY EVERSON

Cory Everson began to train seriously as a bodybuilder after her graduation, and made rapid progress. In the early years, she and Jeff trained at Ernie's Gym on Sherman Avenue in Madison.

6.DAYANA CADEAU

At a height of 5 foot 2.5 inches, Cadeau has competed as a lightweight since the IFBB introduced weight classes in pro contests in 2000. Her contest weight is generally 128-130 lb, and she weighs around 140 lb in the off-season.
Cadeau earned her pro card in 1997 by winning the overall title at the Canada Cup. She has never won an overall pro title, but she has four class titles to her credit—lightweight at the Ms. International in 2001 and 2004, middleweight at the 2003 Jan Tana Classic, and lightweight at the Ms. Olympia in 2004.

7. ANDRULLA BLANCHETTE

Andrulla is a 1st Dan black belt in judo, having started out in the sport at age 11. Before that she loved to grapple with the boys in the neighbourhood out on the streets near her home. She made the British junior squad and even wanted to try out for the Olympic Games. She decided to start lifting weights only to help her out in her judo, but quickly realized that she was extremely strong for her size. She also developed her body at a prodigious rate.
Her most notable bodyparts are her arms (in 1996, at a bodyweight of 145 lb, they measured 17 inches) and her traps, which she says developed large and early from a former training partner and boyfriend who had her lifting heavy right from the start. At a height of 5'3", her contest bodyweight has typically been around 135 lb.
In 1996, Andrulla was named Women's Physique World's European Bodybuilder of the Year. She won the Ms. Olympia lightweight title in 2000, and just missed retaining the title the following year. Recently in 2002 Blanchette was schedule to compete Ms. International, but was disqualified on Thursday night for not signing a contract to compete.

8. JULIETTE BERGMANN

She began training to lose weight in 1981, but didn't become a bodybuilder until 1983, after attending a female bodybuilding contest where she got a very good impression of the competitors. By the end of that year she would enter her first competition, where she placed first.
In 1984 she won the Dutch National Championship and repeated as champion in 1985. Later that same year she qualified for the World Amateur Championship, where she achieved first place. By the end of 1985 she competed in her first Ms. Olympia, but did poorly with a 14th placing. However, she achieved significant success in 1986 by winning the Pro World Championship, placing second (by one point) in the Ms. International, and sixth in the Ms. Olympia. After 1989 she planned to take a year off from competition and compete again in 1991, but her plans were derailed when she suffered a badly broken ankle. She was not able to train seriously again for a couple of years.

9. VALENTINA CHEPIGA

Valentina won the European and World Amateur titles in 1997. She then made her professional debut at the 1998 Ms. Olympia contest, finishing in 12th place. Her greatest success as a professional has been winning the heavyweight class at the 2000 Ms. Olympia. No overall winner was named for that show, so she was essentially co-Ms. Olympia with lightweight class winner Andrulla Blanchette. In 2002 she took part in Ms. International, where she won the lightweight class. After a three year break from competition, Chepiga returned to the stage at the 2007 Ms. Olympia, placing eleventh.

10.RACHEL MCLISH

McLish's win in the inaugural Ms. Olympia competition in 1980 became a landmark moment for women's bodybuilding. In the year before her win, women's bodybuilding had gained trendy mainstream media notice, including features on the popular television show Real People and the large enterprise story of the Mar. 17, 1980 Sports Illustrated. The sport lacked a galvanizing icon, however. Lisa Lyon and Stacey Bentley (motto: "Power not at the expense of grace") had lithe, well-toned bodies, but too little muscle for many hardcore fans. Laura Combs, the first women considered to have big arms, and Claudia Wilbourn (motto: "no smiles, no wiles, just muscle") were too muscular for all but the most extreme women's bodybuilding fans of the day. Combs, Wilbourn, thirtysomething athletes who took up bodybuilding such as Cammie Lusko and Kay Baxter (1979 version) often projected more an adult tomboy aura.

Top 5 Amazing Little Heroes

2012-08-02T06:29:00.001-07:00

5. Nathan Thomson
the nine-year-old boy who saved his mother when an armed intruder tried to stab her to death

The boy was stabbed in the face as he fought to save his mum from a knife maniac. Nathan Thomson jumped on Hugh Clark’s back as the drunken thug tried to kill his mother Ena. Clark turned on the little boy and lashed out with the blade, scarring him for life. But Nathan helped save Ena, who was knifed eight times but survived. The attack happened after the drunk offshore worker broke into the Rosyth’s home in Fife.
4. Alexis Goggin

the seven-year-old girl who used her body as a shield to save her mother’s life

Alexis Goggins, a first-grader at Campbell Elementary School, was hailed as an “angel from heaven” and a hero, for jumping in front of an enraged gunman who pumped six bullets into the child as she used her body as a shield to save her mother’s life. The girl’s mother, Selietha Parker, 30, was shot in the left side of her head and her biceps by a former boyfriend, but before he could fire again, Alexis jumped over the seat between her mother and the gunman and begged him not to shoot her mother.
3. Kamal Nepali
the twelve-year-old boy who risked his own life to rescue a baby girl from a 60-foot-deep gorge

A two and half year old toddler, Aradhana Pradhan, was rescued by Kamal Nepali, 12 years, after a team of professional rescuers all gave up having failed to bring the child back up even after repeated attempts. But even after 22 hours of repeated attempts, the rescuers weren’t able to bring the child out. They started fearing the worst and then Kamal arrived at the scene. His elder brother Salum had told him that only a very small and thin person could manage to get through the very narrow gorge to save the girl. “A small girl like our own little sister is trapped in the gorge, would you like to go down to rescue her?” Salum had asked Kamal. Immediately after that Kamal had readied himself to go into the gorge.
2. Isabelle Keeling
the two-year-old girl who called 999 to save her mother’s life

Isabelle Keeling, 2, called the emergency services as her mother Joanne suffered a reaction to latex at their home, and was able to give her name, address and telephone number. She even opened up the front door to let in neighbours and paramedics, who were able to promptly treat her mother. Just the day before, Isabelle had watched an episode of the children’s TV programme Tweenies where she had seen how to call 999.
1. Agustin Robinet
the six-year-old boy who helped his mother to give birth

When his mother began to suffer strong contractions, and was forced to give birth at home, Agustin was the only one who was with her, so he attended his mother at giving birth. Also Agustin was encharged to call his father, who arrived home a few minutes later. When the little boy was asked if he was afraid, he answered: “My mom always says that all women are in pain when they go to have a baby”.

10 Most Expensive Paintings Ever Sold

2012-08-02T02:42:00.000-07:00

Everyone knows the art is expensive… but how much? World has seen some great painters their great paintings and great worth of such paintings. The admirers of painting masterpieces are many who can spend hefty sum to acquire them. These are the artworks that have bagged the maximum price in the auctions or the private sales.

Here I have compiled some of the most expensive paintings ever sold in auction. I may have missed out some so please feel free to comment and make list accurate. Thanks
Garcon a la pipe

Painted in 1905 by Pablo Picasso, Garcon a la Pipe (Boy with a Pipe) became the most expensive painting ever sold at auction when it was sold in Sotheby’s in New York in May 2004 for a price of just over $104 million.
Dora Maar au chat

This is another one by Pablo Picasso was bought in a Sotheby’s auction in May 2006 by an anonymous Russian bidder for just over $95 million.
Portrait of Adele Bloch-Baur II

A 1912 painting by Gustav KlimtIt was sold at Christie’s in November 2006 reaching almost $88 million.
Portrait du Dr Gachet

Painted by Vincent van Gogh in 1890, this is one of two versions painted by the Dutch artist. It gained fame in May 1990 when a Japanese businessman paid $82.5 million for the piece at a Christie’s auction, making it the most expensive painting in the world at the time.
Portrait de l’Artiste Sans Barbe

It was painted in 1889. In 1998 at an auction in Christie’s, New York the painting was sold for $71.5 million, making it the third most expensive painting in the world at the time.
Femme aux Bras Croises

The third painting by Pablo Picasso in our list of the most expensive paintings ever sold at auction was painted in 1902 during the artist’s Blue Period. It was sold for over $55 million at a Christie’s auction in 2000.
Bal au Moulin de la Galette, Montmartre

Commonly known as Le Moulin de la Galette, it is an 1876 painting by the French artist Pierre-Auguste Renoir. It was bought in auction in May 1990 by Ryoei Saito the same Japanese businessman that bought Portrait du Dr Gachet for over $78 million.
Massacre of the Innocents

Painted in 2 versions in the 17th century by Peter Paul Rubens, Massacre of the Innnocents
depicts the biblical even. In July 2002 it was sold at auction in Sotheby’s, London for almost $76 million to Canadian press baron Kenneth Thomson.
Rideau, Cruchon et Compotier

Considered the most expensive still life ever sold at auction, it was painted towards the end of the 19th century by French artist Paul Cezanne. It was sold at Sotheby’s, New York in May 1999 for over $60 million. It was later sold for a loss.
Irises

Another painting in our list by Vincent Van Gogh, Irises was sold for just under $54 million in 1987 making it the most expensive painting in the world at the time.

Amazing Hand Watch

2012-08-01T10:35:00.001-07:00

Amazing design of watch.Your wristwatch shouldn’t be very complicated with numerous options like the ones we have featured in our collection ofluxury watches. This model called Slip Watches, created by design studio from Brooklyn Nonlinear Studio, is very simple but at the same time extremely stylish. The face of the watches crosses the wrist band at 20 degrees. This inferred movement gives the watch its unique character and makes it more ergonomic to read. Very interesting and creative watches.

10 Best Social Sites For Movie Lovers On The Web

2012-08-01T08:18:00.001-07:00

If you want your movie experience to extend beyond the theater, where should you turn? For movie lovers, the social web is the place to be. Nowadays you will find plenty of social networks for film buffs to hang out, discuss movies, get information about that latest films and upcoming releases, and meet other cinephiles. Where do you go for your movie fix on the web?

Compiled below is a list of the 10 best social sites for movie lovers adapted from Mashable.
IMDb

IMDb or International movie database has been the go-to site for movies since shortly after it was launched in 1990. Owned by Amazon, IMDb is easily the most complete film and television reference on the Internet.
Flixter

Flixster started experiencing phenomenal growth in 2007, and really took off when it released its “Movies” application on Facebook, which remains one of that platform’s most popular apps.
Filmcrave

FilmCrave is a fun movie rating and review social site that rewards users for participation using a points system. The site also has discussion forums, movie polls, and trailers.
Criticker

Criticker makes it painfully easy to rate film. It gives you a list of movies and for the ones you’ve seen you enter a number between 0 and 100. Once you’ve rated enough films, the site starts to suggest films you might like through a probability score index.
FlickChart

The idea behind Flickchart is to tap into the crowd to collaboratively assemble the most comprehensive ranking of films ever made. Flickchart’s method of deriving those rankings is a little unusual, but extremely simple and very addicting.
I Heart Movies

I Heart Movies is a movie information site that’s essentially trying to take on IMDb by combining detailed movie information with ratings, recommendations, and reviews.
Spout

Spout isn’t the most polished film information site and social network on this list, but it is very complete. the site provides plenty of ways for users to interact, including rating and reviewing films, discussion groups, film news, and trailers.
NetFlix

While most people associate Netflix with its DVD-by-mail rental service, its Movie Fans social network is worth joining for users of the service. Powered by Ning, the site isn’t the most full-featured social network.
The Auteurs

The Auteurs is a social network for people who love film. You’ll find a community of people reviewing and discussing foreign films and dissecting the cinematography of scenes in classic cinema.
Box Office Mojo

If the business of movies is your game, then IMDb-owned BoxOfficeMojo is your place. BoxOfficeMojo tracks how much films earn at the US and worldwide box office on a daily, weekly, and weekend basis.

10 Best Sleeky Hands Free Bluetooth Devices

2012-08-01T03:51:00.002-07:00

If you haven’t heard in United States alone 5 states have already enacted laws to ban cell phone use when driving your car unless you are using a hands free device such as a Bluetooth headset enabled phone. The five 5 states are California, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York or Washington. It will be illegal to operate a phone while driving without a hands-free headset in many more states to come so this is definitely a good time to get one and avoid the tickets.

Here I have compiled some of the best sleeky hands free Bluetooth devices. I hope you will like it.
Motorola S9 Bluetooth Active Headphones

The Motorola S9 Bluetooth Active Headphones feature an attractive design, user-friendly controls, and solid sound quality. It has a built-in microphone for making calls.

Aliph Jaw Bone Bluetooth

The Aliph Jawbone Bluetooth has a modern, chic design, and they fit quite comfortably around the ear.

Plantronics Voyager 520

The Plantronics Voyager 520 is a very comfortable and lightweight Bluetooth headset with excellent call quality. It’s also quite affordable.

BlueAnt Z9

The BlueAnt Z9 is a smart and stylish Bluetooth headset with advanced Voice Isolation technology. It has reduced background noise.
Motorola H 98689 T820 Bluetooth Stereo Headset

Pair the Motorola H with any Bluetooth enabled phone to have music and calls seamlessly streamed directly to your ears. Hands free connection up to 10 meters from a Bluetooth-enabled mobile phone.
Plantronics Explorer 330

The Plantronics Explorer 330 is a classic, affordable, and lightweight headset that fuses Bluetooth wireless technology with effortless call control for a true hands-free experience.

Jabra BT620s – Bluetooth Stereo Headset

The Jabra BT620s lets you handle phone calls as well as listen to music. You can pair the headphones with two different devices, and play music from a PC via USB connection.
Jabra BT8010 Stereo/Mono

The Jabra BT8010 can be converted into a stereo headset by connecting a second earpiece via a wire. The OLED display shows caller ID, plus you can use it to scroll through phone contacts. You also can use it as a remote control for a Bluetooth-enabled music player.
Plantronics Discovery 925

It is a high performance Bluetooth earpiece that is also designed beautifully. With an elegantly simple VFrame design and an onyx-black, diamond-shaped earpiece, the Plantronics Discovery 925 Bluetooth Earpiece lets you communicate hands-free with comfort and crystal clear performance.
Sony Ericsson Bluetooth HBH-GV435

Fast automatic volume adjustment changes the volume depending on the situation, while Bluetooth 2.0 guarantees a stable link to your phone.

Top 10 Children's Modeling Contest 2012

2012-08-01T03:43:00.000-07:00

Top 10 Children's Modeling Contest 2012

THE 24 BEACH VOLLEYBALL TEAMS OF THE 2012 LONDON OLYMPICS

2012-07-31T07:38:00.001-07:00

THE 24 BEACH VOLLEYBALL TEAMS OF THE 2012 LONDON OLYMPICS

24 ANASTASIA VASINA-ANNA VOZAKOVA

Country: Russia

23 MADELEINE MEPPELINK - SOPHIE VAN GESTEL

Country: Netherlands

22 EVGENIA UKOLOVA-EKATERINA KHOMYAKOVA

Country: Russia

21 NATALIE COOK-TAMSIN HINCHLEY

Country: Australia

20 ANNIE MARTIN-MARIE-ANDREE LESSARD

Country: Canada

19 ANA GALLAY - VIRGINIA ZONTA

Country: Argentina

18 NATACHA RIGOBERT-ELODIE LI YUK LO

Country: Mauritius

17 VASILIKI ARVANITI-MARIA TSIARTSIANI
Country: Greece

16 HANA KLAPALOVA-LENKA HAJECKOVA
Country: Czech Republic

15 BECCHARA PALMER-LOUISE BAWDEN

Country: Australia

14 DORIS SCHWAIGER-STEFANIE SCHWAIGER

Country: Austria

13 ELSA BAQUERIZO-LILIANA FERNÁNDEZ

Country: Spain

12 MARKETA SLUKOVA-CHRISTINE KOLOCOVA

Country: Czech Republic

11 KATRIN HOLTWICK-ILKA SEMMLER

Country: Germany

10 NADINE ZUMKEHR-SIMONE KUHN

Country: Switzerland

9 SARA GOLLER-LAURA LUDWIG

Country: Germany

8 SANNE KEIZER-MARLEEN VAN IERSEL

Country: Netherlands

7 CICOLARI GRETA- MENEGATTI MARTA

Country: Italy

6 SHAUNA MULLIN-ZARA DAMPNEY

Country: England

5 TALITA ANTUNES-MARIA ELISA ANTONELLI

Country: Brazil

4 JENNIFER KESSY-APRIL ROSS

Country: USA

3 MISTY MAY-TREANOR-KERRI WALSH

Country: USA

2 XUE CHEN-ZHANG XI

Country: China

1 LARISSA FRANCA - JULIANA SILVA

Country: Brazil

The Most Expensive Pizza

2012-07-30T10:11:00.000-07:00

The owner of pizzeria Nino’s Bellissima Pizza, located in New York seems to believe that there are willing to shell out thousands of dollars for a meal in a pizzeria.
Nino Selimaj, he came up with the idea with the most expensive pizza. In 2007 he spent a year researching what ingredients can be used for this purpose. Eventually, he stopped at the filling of the 4 types of caviar, lobster tail, salmon roe and wasabi. Each of the four pieces, which sold for $ 250, includes various kinds of caviar. Selimazh acknowledges that the pizza is delicious on its prescription is not available to all. Especially after the financial crisis has hit a pocket of his patrons. Before the crisis, he sold from 2 to 10 packages of pizza a week, but then sales dropped to one pizza for 2 weeks or even months.
Despite the difficulties in business, a pizzeria Nino continues to offer visitors the most expensive pizza in the world.

Best Hip Hop Playlist 2012

2012-07-29T15:22:00.000-07:00

Best Hip Hop Playlist 2012

If you are searching for the best hip hop playlist 2012 dance songs , this article is what you are looking for. Listed here are some popular, groovy and the best hip hop playlist 2012 songs. Hip hop is a musical genre that developed with the hip hop cultural movement. Hip hop music basically involves rapping, looping, freestyling or freestyle rap, scratching, DJing, beatboxing (vocal percussion), and sampling. Hip hop music is undoubtedly incomplete without hip hop songs 2012 . Locking, b-boying, break dancing, popping, and krumping are some of the coolest forms of hip hop dancing.

Top Hip Hop Playlist 2012

01.Rihanna ft. Jay-Z – Talk That Talk
02.Busta Rhymes ft. Chris Brown – Why Stop Now
03.Young Jeezy ft. Andre 3000 & Jay-Z – I Do
04.Drake ft. Nicki Minaj – Make Me Proud
05.T-Pain ft. Lil Wayne – Bang Bang Pow Pow
06.Frank Ocean – Dust
07.Drake ft. Lil Wayne & Tyga – The Motto
08.Ne-Yo ft. Trey Songz & T-Pain – The Way You Move
09.Big Sean ft. Nicki Minaj – Dance (A$$) (Remix)
10.T.I. – Pyro
11.Yelawolf ft. Gangsta Boo & Eminem – Throw It Up
12.Mary J. Blige ft. Drake – Mr. Wrong
13.B.o.B ft. T.I. & Mos Def – Boom Bap
14.Meek Mill ft. T.I., Rick Ross, Lil Wayne, Birdman, Swizz Beatz & DJ Khaled – I’ma Boss (Remix)
15.Common ft. John Legend – The Believer
16.Wiz Khalifa & Snoop Dogg ft. Bruno Mars – Young, Wild & Free
17.Shanell ft. Drake & Lil Wayne – So Good
18.Bruno Mars – It Will Rain
19.Trey Songz ft. Fabolous – What I Be On
20.Ludacris ft. Wiz Khalifa – What U Smokin’ On

Good Hip Hop Playlist 2012
This is the top hip hop playlist 2012 songs which will keep you preoccupied with some of the best there is in the music scene this year round lets enjoy hip hop music and 2012 hip hop playlist.

Top 10 Highest Paid Musicians Of 2010

2012-07-29T14:21:00.003-07:00

10. Black Eyed Peas
$48 million
Since crossing over to the mainstream in the early 2000s, the Black Eyed Peas have been everywhere from the Super Bowl pre-game show to discussing politics on CNN. A worldwide tour that took them from Switzerland to Mexico brought in $800,000 a night, while the band’s openness to endorsement deals led them to ink commitments with Target, Honda, Bacardi and Apple.

What does it take to become one of the highest-paid musicians of the 2010s? A career that peaked in the 1980s. Nearly half of the artists that make up this year’s list of the top-earning music acts have been around long enough that they could have appeared on the soundtrack to Back to the Future. Here are top ten earning musicians of 2010.
9. Kenny Chesney
$50 million
Chesney continued his reign atop the country music industry by out-touring everyone else. His 2009 tour grossed $71 million and brought in an average of $1.6 million every night, nearly doubling the box office receipts of his closest competitor, Keith Urban. Prominent sponsorships with companies like Corona and MasterCard keep tour costs down, making the tours even more profitable.

8. Madonna
$58 million
The Material Girl isn’t quite ready to cede her spot in pop music’s hierarchy to Lady Gaga or Britney Spears just yet. The 52-year-old singer had the fourth highest-grossing tour of 2009, bringing in $6 million a night and
$138 million overall. An episode of the Fox hit sitcom Glee, which featured cast members singing several of her songs, added to her already high profile and cushioned her significant earnings from publishing royalties.

7. Lady Gaga
$62 million
A newcomer to the Celebrity 100, Lady Gaga broke down the door to fame with outlandish outfits and quirky videos, including one that featured her and Beyonce poisoning an unappreciative boyfriend. With a 106-date tour that grossed $95 million, Lady Gaga is also a marketer’s dream, teaming up with Polaroid, Virgin Mobile, Monster Cable and Viva Glam.

6. Jay-Z
$63 million
Jay-Z likes to say he’s not a businessman; he’s a business, man–and it’s not idle boasting. The rapper-turned-mogul retains his crown as hip-hop’s cash king thanks to a new album and investments in the 40/40 nightclub chain, the Broadway show “Fela!” and the New Jersey Nets basketball team. Jay-Z’s biggest boost comes from his Blueprint 3 tour, which grossed over $1 million per concert this year. He still makes less than wife Beyoncé.

5. Britney Spears
$64 million
Not long ago, most of the entertainment world had written Britney Spears off as a celebrity flameout. But over the last year Spears logged the fifth highest-grossing tour in the world, bringing in $130 million in gross box office receipts by playing 98 dates. High-profile endorsement deals with Elizabeth Arden and Candies’ prove that the public expects Spears to stay in the spotlight for good.

4. Bruce Springsteen
$70 million
The poet laureate of New Jersey continues to connect with fans around the world. Backed by the E Street Band, Springsteen sold more than 2 million tickets on his world tour, which grossed $167 million, enough to make it the third highest-grossing tour in the world. Heavy radio play on classic rock stations and a steady-selling backlist adds to his bottom line.

3. Beyonce Knowles
$87 million
One half of the most famous couple in hip-hop (Jay-Z, No. 6, is the other half), Beyoncé continues to expand her business empire beyond music. Endorsement deals with companies ranging from Nintendo to L’Oreal and her growing House of Dereon fashion line bring in millions of dollars per year on top of the $86 million she grossed from a 93-stop world tour.

2.: AC/DC
$114 million
This Australian heavy metal group has been shaking audiences all night long since 1973 and shows few signs of stopping. Second only to U2 in band tour earnings, AC/DC grossed a staggering $226 million on a worldwide tour that included 99 dates and brought in more than $2 million a night.

1. U2

$130 million

The world’s biggest rock band, U2 launched a massive world tour in 2009 that has brought in more than $311 million in gross box office receipts. Each tour stop brings in $10 million in gross ticket sales. Add in lucrative merchandise sales, heavy radio play and a steady-selling back catalog, and you have the highest-earning band on the planet.

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2012-07-29T09:55:00.001-07:00

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2012-07-28T08:49:00.000-07:00

Top 25 Of World BodyPainting Festival 2009

2012-07-28T03:45:00.001-07:00

The “World Bodypainting Festival” is a cult event that has driven the art of bodypainting. It has spread awareness and excitement for body art. For the year 2009 this biggest event took place over the small town of Seeboden, in Austria. We are going to share some stunning photos of that art festival and we hope that you will enjoy this post same as our previous post about bodypainting art.

Modern Block Townhouse Interior by Cecconi Simone

2012-07-26T05:54:00.000-07:00

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Modern Block Townhouse Interior by Cecconi Simone