West Hills loses to Compton in tourney

Darius Gordon scored 22 points for West Hills (4-3) in an 87-85 loss to Compton in the Condor Classic consolation at Oxnard College.

Sony Confirms Vita Won’t Support PS1, Turbo Grafx Games at Launch

11/28/2011 Written by Tony Wibowo gravatar closeAuthor: Tony Wibowo Name: Tony Wibowo
Email: magpie2010@gmail.com
Site: About: See Authors Posts (30)

A few weeks ago, Famitsu released a PS Vita FAQ containing information regarding the successor to the PSP. Buried inside the FAQ was info about “Game Archives” support by the system, with the FAQ mentioning that the system might not support it at launch. Today, Sony has confirmed that the Vita will indeed not support “Game Archives” at launch.

Sony updated the Vita’s official website with the following:

Can [the] Vita play PlayStation Game Archives games?

It won’t be supported at the time of the PS Vita launch. Regarding future support, we’ll share details later.

“Game Archives” covers the original PlayStation and PC Engine/Turbo Grafx games that can be downloaded through the PSN store. That means that those games can only be played on a PSP or a PS3 for now. Hopefully, Sony will update the Vita to support “Game Archives” at some point in the future.

Do you guys really care about Vita’s inability to play old PS1 and PC Engine/Turbo Grafx games? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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Memory card FAQ: all your questions answered

When it comes to memory cards, it’s easy to become confused thanks to all of the different types and variations available.

Memory cards are used in a range of devices, from cameras and camcorders to mobile phones, televisions and consoles. Knowing what type of memory card is right for you (and your particular devices) is becoming vitally important, and this is where we can help.

What is a memory card?

Memory cards are small devices (some no bigger than your thumbnail) that are used to store electronic data. This can be anything (depending on the device) from photos, music, movies, games, documents, programs and more. While cards come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are available for a variety of products, all memory cards do essentially the same thing — store data.

Memory cards, also referred to as flash memory, are essentially chips that allow users to write and rewrite data multiple times. Some of the key features of flash memory cards include their small size and the ability to retain data without a power supply. This allows them to fit into a variety of portable consumer devices.

What types of devices need memory cards?

Devices like the Nintendo Wii use SD cards.
(Wii console SD card image by Evan Amos, public domain)

Memory cards first took off as the storage medium of choice in photography, with cameras dispensing with film rolls to instead rely on the much smaller and cost-effective memory cards. As well as digital cameras, memory cards are commonly used in mobile phones to store information like photos and music, as well as in camcorders to store video.

Memory cards are also used in other consumer electronic devices such as televisions, portable game devices, printers, DVD recorders and more. Many TVs come with card slots which allow users to see any stored photos on a big screen, while some printers allow you to print directly from images stored on a card.

While you can easily swap cards from one product to another, it’s important to remember that different devices take different types of memory cards. If you already have a device that takes a memory card and want to buy more gear, make sure your intended purchase can take the same type of card.

What are the different types of memory cards available?

Over the past few years the number of different types of memory cards has reduced drastically, due to standardisation. The main types currently available include SD, Memory Stick and CompactFlash. Other, less common varieties in older devices include MMC, xD Picture Card and SmartMedia.

Secure Digital (SD) is the most widespread format, and come in various different capacities and speeds. Memory Stick is a proprietary format developed by Sony and as a result is found mainly in Sony devices. CompactFlash is a standard specifically developed for digital cameras and is now most commonly used in higher-end SLRs. The xD Picture Card is being phased out, a proprietary format developed by Fujifilm and Olympus.

Some cameras come with dual card slots.
(Credit: Nikon)

Devices will usually only take one variety of memory card, although some cameras and camcorders have a single slot that accepts two different varieties of cards, such as Sony cameras, which generally take SD and Memory Stick. High end digital SLRs may also have two or more slots for different types of cards, such as the Nikon D300s, which has an SD and CompactFlash slot side-by-side.

Many formats also have sub-variants. SD, for example, also comes in miniSD and microSD (also known as TransFlash) forms, while Memory Sticks have the Memory Stick Pro Duo variants. While the underlying technology is the same, the size and form factor is vastly different in these variants.

Can I use the same card on other devices?

Even though the packaging suggests it’s used for cameras, you can still use this SD card on other compatible devices.
(Credit: CBSi)

The simple answer is yes, but with some caveats. As long as your different devices take the same type of card, you should be able to freely use the same memory unit in those different devices. If, for example, your mobile phone and laptop all take SD cards, then you’ll be able to use the same SD card to store data, take pictures or transfer information.

You may not be able to access or use your stored data from one device to another, however. Individual devices may use a specific file structure when recording information onto a memory card, or they may use specific file format types. If a device is unable to browse a memory card’s directory or cannot read a specific type of file format, then it won’t be able to display or utilise something stored using a different device. Songs stored as MP3 files on a card, for example, can’t be played on a device that doesn’t have MP3 support.

Also worth noting is that older devices that use regular SD cards may not be able to read the newer SDHC and SDXC cards, even though the form factor is exactly the same.

How safe is the data stored on memory cards?

When it comes to the safety of your data, memory cards have some key advantages over other storage devices such as hard disks or CDs/DVDs. Memory cards are much more shockproof than other storage mediums. Since there are no moving parts in a memory card, they’re much less prone to damage from movement, which can occur in a normal hard drive.

They’re also much less fragile than a CD/DVD. The case of a memory card can easily take a scratch or two, while scratches on the underside of a CD or DVD will most often result in data loss or an unreadable disk. Since memory cards are physically so small, perhaps the greatest risk of data loss lies with losing the entire card itself, rather than by some other accident.

SanDisk’s all-in-one reader can take all major types of memory cards.
(Credit: SanDisk)

How do I transfer data from my memory card to my PC?

Most portable devices come with cables to link directly to a PC or laptop, allowing you to transfer any images or data stored on your memory card. If you don’t have your device or cable with you, however, there are other alternatives.

The majority of new PCs and laptops are now being sold with built-in card readers. These allow you to slide your card directly into the computer, from which you can access any data stored on the card. There are also stand-alone card readers you can purchase. These card readers can usually read more than one type of card, which is handy if you’ve got several devices with different memory units.

Modern Warfare 3 Co-Op FAQ and Spec-Ops Overview – Co

8:00 AM on 11/26/2011
by Locke Vincent

Modern Warfare 3 is a game with many different modes, but we do co-op here so we have taken a closer look at the Spec Ops and Survival game modes. Both modes have you and a partner join forces to take on enemies that come in many different forms. Spec Ops has 16 very different missions and Survival is Modern Warfare’s take on the ever popular ‘Horde Mode’ and both will have you coming back for more.

Stay tuned for our Spec Ops playthrough videos coming out in the near future.

How many players does Modern Warfare 3 support in co-op?
Can I play split screen in Modern Warfare 3 co-op?
Can I play Spec-Ops via LAN?
What modes are available for co-op in Modern Warfare 3?
What are missions are there in Spec-Ops?
How is mission progression handled in Spec-Ops?
What does the player level do in Spec-Ops?
What guns are available in Modern Warfare 3′s co-op? When are they unlocked?
What weapon upgrades are available and what level do they unlock at?
What air support or perks are available and what level do they unlock at in Modern Warfare 3?
What equipment is available in Modern Warfare 3 co-op to unlock?

How many players does Modern Warfare 3 support in co-op?

You can play 2 players in either co-op mode, Spec-Ops Missions or Spec-Ops Survival.

Can I play split screen in Modern Warfare 3 co-op?

Yes. All you need is to have another controller plugged in and press start.

Can I play Spec-Ops via LAN?

While the versus supports LAN play, the co-op does not.

What modes are available for co-op in Modern Warfare 3?

You can play Survival on 16 maps or Missions on 16 maps.

What are missions are there in Spec-Ops?

Stay Sharp – Obstacle course where players take out targets.
Mile High Jack – Capture the Russian president onboard a 747 aircraft.
Hit and Run – Take out two HVT and rescue the hostages.
Over Reactor – Capture a Russian sub before it goals nuclear.
Toxic Paradise – Suit up as juggernauts and disable nerve agent canisters.
Firewall – Hack laptops as one player while the other covers you with remote control turrets.
Fatal Extraction – Gather intel dropped by enemies and call in airstrikes on a target.
Hostage Taker - Save the president’s daughter…stealth not required.
Charges Set – More advanced obstacle course.
Resistance Movement – Eliminate enemies while rescuing civilians.
Little Bros – Destroy Sensitive data before Russians get it, players alternate cover in a helicopter.
Invisible Threat – Take out IEDs in a juggernaut suit.
Server Crash – Break into an enemy base and steal their master plan.
Smack Town – Aerial assault on enemy shipping illegal cargo.
Flood the Market – Get the codes in the stock market and then survive extraction on the roof.
Fire Mission – One player covers the other in the AC-130 while eliminating an enemy base.

How is mission progression handled in Spec-Ops?

Players will earn stars depending on what difficulty they chose for a mission. Completing a mission on normal earns you one, hardened earns you two, and veteran earns you three.

After so many stars are earned you’ll unlock the next tier of mission. 16 stars is enough to unlock all 16 missions.

What does the player level do in Spec-Ops?

Spec-Ops has a completely separate player progression system that’s very similar to the versus multiplayer. As you play missions you’ll earn experience which counts towards your co-op level. Each time you level up you’ll earn unlocks which are used in the game’s survival mode.

These upgrades and unlocks include not only weapons, but upgrades to the weapons as well as abilities to call in like a predator missile or a turret.

What guns are available in Modern Warfare 3′s co-op? When are they unlocked?

Handguns ($250)

Five Seven – Level 1
USP .45 – Level 1
MP412 – Level 2
Desert Eagle – Level 11
.44 Magnum – Level 20
P99 – Level 40

Machine Pistols ($1500)

G18 – Level 1
Skorpion – Level 3
MP9 – Level 17
FMG9 – Level 37

Assault Rifles ($3000)

M4A1 – Level 1
M16A4 – Level 1
SCAR-L – Level 5
ACR 6.8 – Level 14
AK-47 – Level 24
FAD – Level 32
G36C – Level 39
CM901 – Level 43
MK14 – Level 47
Type 95 – Level 50

Sub Machine Guns ($2000)

MP5 – Level 1
UMP45 – Level 4
MP7 – Level 13
PM-9 – Level 23
PP90M1 – Level 38
P90 – Level 46

Light Machine Guns ($7000)

M60E4 – Level 12
PKP PECHENEG – Level 18
MK46 – Level 34
L86 LSW – Level 41
MG36 – Level 48

Sniper Rifles ($2000)

MSR – Level 7
DRAGUNOV – Level 16
RSASS – Level 29
L118A – Level 35
AS50 – Level 42
BARRETT .50CAL – Level 49

Shotguns ($2000)

MODEL 1887 – Level 1
USAS 12 – Level 6
SPAS-12 – Level 16
KSG12 – Level 26
STRIKER – Level 33
AA-12 – Level 44

What weapon upgrades are available and what level do they unlock at?

Holographic Sight – Level 1 ($1000)
Red Dot Sight – Level 7 ($750)
Grip – Level 19 ($1250)
M203 Grenade Launcher – Level 28 ($1500)
GP25 Grenade Launcher – Level 28 ($1500)
M320 Grenade Launcher – Level 28 ($1500)
ACOG SCOPE – Level 30 ($1250)
Shotgun Attachment – Level 45 ($1500)

What air support or perks are available and what level do they unlock at in Modern Warfare 3?

Air Support

Predator Missile – Level 1 ($2500)
Air Strike – Level 4 ($2500)
Delta Squad – Level 14 ($3000)
Riot Shield Squad – Level 21 ($5000)

Co-Op Perks

Quick Draw – Level 1 ($3000)
Steady Aim – Level 8 ($3000)
Self Revive – Level 13 ($4000)
Stalker – Level 22 ($4000)
Extreme Conditioning – Level 36 ($4000)
Sleight of Hand – Level 50 ($5000)

What equipment is available in Modern Warfare 3 co-op to unlock?

FRAGS – Level 1 ($750)
Flash Bang – Level 1 ($1000)
CLAYMORE – Level 2 ($1000)
C4 – Level 3 ($1500)
RPG-7 – Level 27 ($2000)
BODY ARMOR – Level 10 ($2000)
Sentry Gun – Level 17 ($3000)
Sentry Grenade Launcher – Level 31 ($4000)
Riot Shield – Level 37 ($3000)

Next Story: Beyond Co-Op, November 20th to November 26th

Author

Book Review: The Beach Boys FAQ by Jon Stebbins

The FAQ series of books from the Hal Leonard Publishing imprint offer a unique slant on the rock biography genre. By taking established artists such as The Beatles and Neil Young, and providing little-known facts, the FAQ books are able to add something constructive to our understanding of these artists, rather than simply repeating tried and true stories.

With The Beach Boys, this is a particularly effective approach. As much of a “genius” as Brian Wilson was, we have heard the stories endlessly. Yes, his father was abusive; yes, there was a sandbox underneath his piano; yes, Smile was an aborted masterpiece for decades. Blah, blah, blah. Author Jon Stebbins does repeat these tales — I guess no Beach Boys book is complete without them — but he adds a great deal more to the typical narrative.

My favorite chapter is “Sail On Sailor” which discusses in depth the albums made during the “lean” years. This would be the post-Smile period, from late 1967 to 1973. Albums that were consigned to the cut-out bin almost immediately upon release are finally given their due here, and it is a welcome reassessment. I must admit to a (former) willingness to go along with the crowd in regards to records such as Friends and Carl And The Passions Present “So Tough,” but The Beach Boys FAQ has convinced me to go back and listen with a more open mind to these efforts.

Stebbins has found a number of other intriguing avenues to explore besides the “forgotten” works of the group. The chapter titled “Rhonda, Wendy, Caroline.Who Were Those California Girls?” is pretty self-explanatory. Then there are “No Go Showboat: The Beach Boys’ Image Problems,” and “The Fun Of Hating Mike Love.” Again these are self-explanatory titles, but the subject matter is not something generally found in other Beach Boys biographies. “The Fun Of Hating Mike Love,” in particular, is hilarious and deadly accurate.

As expected, there are whole chapters devoted to Pet Sounds and Smile, and the book even includes a press release about the release of the original Smile which was issued in March 2011. The Beach Boys FAQ contains a great deal of trivia, such as chapters about their most important live dates, solo albums, and their appearances in TV and film. This is not necessarily the most exhaustive Beach Boys book one will find out there, but it does contain a great deal of information that is not normally present in such accounts. As such, the Beach Boys FAQ is a welcome addition to the canon.

View the original article on blogcritics.org

Assassin’s Creed: Revelations: FAQ/Walkthrough

Top Cheats: Assassin’s Creed: Revelations: FAQ/Walkthro.. | The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim: FAQ/Walkthrough | Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3: FAQ/Walkthrough | Professor Layton and the Last Specter: Walkthro.. | Rage: FAQ/Walkthrough | Dead Rising 2: Off the Record: FAQ/Walkthrough

Job finding FAQ’s

Some questions and answers:

What is the PA CareerLink® and what do you offer? As an employer or job seeker, the PA CareerLink® system is a one stop center of partners for all your job search needs.

Our partners are Bureau of Workforce Development Partnership, Community Action Partnership for Somerset County, Adult Education, Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, Department of Public Welfare, Veterans Services and Skills of Central Pennsylvania.

We can help the job seeker with resumes, cover letters, skills assessments, job search, direct dial line for unemployment and many other services and referrals. For employers, we offer assistance in placing job orders, labor market information, matching potential employees, On the Job Training programs and other services. All of our services are at no cost to job seekers or employers.

Can I file for unemployment here?

No, the local PA CareerLink® offices do not handle unemployment compensation. Unemployment claims are handled through UC Service Centers located throughout the state. However, you can use our computers to file for unemployment and our direct dial line to the UCSC in Altoona. A new law that goes into effect next year is that all new unemployment claims filed after Jan. 1 will have a job search requirement, which includes registering on the PA CareerLink® system.

How do I find a job? When you come into the PA CareerLink® to look for employment, there are several options for you. You can attend our Orientation class, enroll on the website, complete an on-line resume, search for jobs that are entered into the system by employers, schedule yourself for workshops, complete applications and referrals to employers or other agencies.

What workshops do you offer? We offer workshops on Basic Computers, resume writing, interviewing techniques, Civil Service, budgeting, Social Media and WIN/WorkKeys® (which is a credentialing tool). We can customize workshops for both job seekers and employers.

Will you pay for training? There could be training monies for schooling, if you meet eligibility requirements. This can be discussed with you in an appointment with our staff. Another option for training can be an On the Job Training where an employer will hire you though an OJT and you can learn a new skill with a promise that you will be hired permanently after training. There will be an OJT Job Challenge at the Somerset County Technology on Dec. 13 for both employers and job seekers.

For more information on the OJT Job Challenge or any other questions you may have, please contact the PA CareerLink® Somerset County at 814-445-4161.

FAQ answered about the care of Next Quartz surfaces

Next Quartz is a highly durable range of attractive quartz and resin surfaces available from Next Stone , that are ideal for kitchen and bathroom use. Next Stone answers some questions about the care and maintenance of the surfaces.

Q. Does Next Quartz require waxes or sealant?

A. No. Next Quartz surfaces are manufactured using advanced from fine natural quartz, creating a surface which is resistant to stains, chemicals, heat and scratches, so it doesn’t require a sealant.

Q. Does this mean that the surfaces can’t be damaged?

A. Whilst the surfaces have strong durability and resistancy they are not actually heat and scratch proof, so it is recommended to follow maintenance guidelines.

Q. How should the surfaces be cared for on a regular basis?

A. The surfaces should be cleaned regularly, using a damp cloth with a small amount of mild, nonabrasive detergent. Liquid spills such as wine, tea, vinegar, lemon juice and fruits should be cleaned up in this way as soon as possible.

Q. How can more stubborn or dried up spillages be removed?

A. A non-abrasive cleaning sponge should be used with a mild cream cleanser. Bleach or cleansers using bleach should be avoided.

For spills and substances that dry and harden, such as food, gum, grease, paint and nail polish, they should be removed by gently scraping with a plastic putty knife. Do not use strong chemicals such as nail polish or paint removers.

Q. Can hot pots and pans be placed directly onto the surface?

A. Next Quartz can withstand exposure to moderately hot temperatures, however extreme temperatures can permanently cause permanent damage. Next Stone advises using a trivet or heat pad to protect the surface from hot cooking appliances.

Q. Can I chop food directly on the quartz surfaces?

A. Whilst the surfaces are scratch resistant in order to ensure the long lasting beauty of the Next Quartz surface it is advisable to use a chopping board.

These surfaces are very durable and by following these care tips a long life is guaranteed.

Mizzou Network FAQ

Coming to MUTigers.com December 1

Nov. 23, 2011

What is it?

The Mizzou Network is a web-based audio-video platform showcasing unique Mizzou content. It will consist of a combination of on-demand and live content.

How is it different from Mizzou All-Access?

The Mizzou Network is a rebranding of Mizzou All-Access. In addition to the name change there will be a greater emphasis on exclusive content for all Mizzou sports, as well as the inclusion of University and historic content.

Why is it unique?

What will make the Mizzou Network unique is the turnkey distribution to multiple platforms. When a video is posted to the Mizzou Network page on mutigers.com, it is automatically pushed to the official CBS mobile app (available on Apple and Android smartphones, and coming soon to Blackberry).

Distribution is also a unique component. Missouri athletic content will reach more fans than ever before through its syndication efforts with CBS Interactive. In addition to the Missouri team page on CBSSports.com, MUTigers.com content will be pushed to StLouis.CBSLocal.com to showcase select video clips and up-to-date athletic information. The MUTigers.com syndication net will be cast to an even wider audience through the CBS Audience Network (CAN). Again, Mizzou Network content will be pushed to major online media outlets such as Yahoo, YouTube, Comcast XFinity, MSN, AOL, and many more through the partnerships established by CAN. Initially, in early December, the content will be pushed to a select group of sites to help mold the syndication strategy which will then lead a continually expanded effort to reach more and more Mizzou fans.

In addition, content will eventually be distributed to a specific channel on “connected/smart” or web-enabled TV’s.

What type of content will be on the Mizzou Network?

Content will range from standard highlights to coach/player interviews, special reports, features, historic games, live events and more. Content and programming will continue to evolve. Every day there will be something new.

Will the Mizzou Network be enhancing live event coverage?

It is our goal to enhance our live event coverage. In the short term we will be adding multi-camera live streams to select events. Eventually we plan to do so for all or most of our events, but we do not have a firm timetable on when that will happen.

How much does it cost?

The model will stay the same as the current Mizzou All-Access. The vast majority of on-demand content (interviews, highlights, features, etc) will remain free. Live audio and video will require a subscription. Monthly subscriptions cost $9.95 and an annual subscription is $79.95. Current subscribers to Mizzou All-Access will continue to have uninterrupted access to the Mizzou Network.

What is the timeline for launch?

The Mizzou Network launches December 1, 2011.

Thanksgiving FAQ

T-minus 24 hours and counting . . .

(Matthew Mead – AP)
Thanksgiving is less than 24 hours away, and we’ve been doing our best to get you prepared. In case you missed anything from earlier in the week, here’s a quick Thanksgiving FAQ:

Q: Help! I’m not very good at this whole Thanksgiving thing, and amid all of the holiday hoopla, I forgot to order a turkey. What do I do?

A: Short of loading up your musket and heading out into the wilderness, you’re going to need a holiday meal to go. Balducci’s, Harris Teeter, Safeway and Whole Foods are your best bets, but order ASAP.

Q: I have friends in town for the weekend and I want to catch up with them over dinner. Where should we go?

A: You’re in luck. With so many locals hitting the road today, many hard-to-book restaurants have limited openings tonight. Rasika, anyone?

Q: I’m vegetarian, so your turkey intel is of no interest to me. Where can I find a good meal?

A:
Everlasting Life Cafe, Loving Hut and the Vegetable Garden are among the options for vegetarian thanks-givers.

Q: Before I sit around all day cooking, eating, drinking and watching football, I’d like to try to get some physical activity in but I’m not registered for any of the area’s turkey trots. Should I just do some sit-ups in my driveway?

A: Walk-up registration is available at both the Ashburn Farm Race and the Bethesda Turkey Chase. There are also plenty of studios offering Thanksgiving Day yoga classes.

Q: I’m uncomfortably full, but after a few hours on the couch I should be good to go out Thursday night, and with no work on Friday, I’m looking to let loose. Any bar specials I should know about?

A:
Union
Jack’s has $1 beers from 5 p.m. until close, Sticky Rice is serving $2 PBR and $5 Jameson shots all night, Meridian Pint will have new seasonal beers on tap and Nellie’s is promising free pie to every customer. But wait, there’s more!

Q: I want to dance off all that turkey weight. Any notable parties or DJs in town?

A: There’s the Thanksgiving Throwdown, a Mousetrap reunion at the Black Cat and Moombahton Massive IX at U Street Music Hall, among others. Heck, there are even free swing dance lessons at the Kennedy Center on Thursday.

Q: My extended family is sticking around through the weekend. What are some of the highlights of the days ahead?

A: Our weekend best-of list includes Mount Vernon by Candlelight, the opening of Synetic’s wordless Romeo and Juliet and ZooLights at the National Zoo. You could also check out one of the area’s best ice skating rinks.

Q: Any museum or gallery exhitions worth checking out? Particularly free ones?

A: This is Washington. Of course. Michael O’Sullivan’s Thanksgiving art suggestions include a pair of Warhol shows and the opening of Season’s Greenings at the U.S. Botanic Garden.

Q: What about new movies opening this week? Is “The Muppets” any good?

A: Yes. In fact, Michael O’Sullivan gave it 3 1/2 stars, calling it “Both a delightful family film about the Muppets and a winking, self-referential satire about how lame the Muppets are.”Other openings: Martin Scorsese’s 3D “Hugo” and “Arthur Christmas.”

Q: It’s Black Friday, but I don’t want to go anywhere near a department store or shopping mall.

A: Save it. There are plenty of unique holiday shopping destinations you can take advantage of in the weeks ahead.

Q: Now that it’s the holiday season, where can I find a listing of all the seasonal events coming up in the weeks ahead?

A: Funny you should ask. Friday’s Weekend section is a good place to start, as well as the online Holiday Guide.

myfaq.co.uk

Monthly Archives: November 2011