tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-135708982024-03-07T13:37:00.134-08:00news & views from RateItAllA discussion of RateItAll.com news, views, and direction.lawrencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614875093460854610noreply@blogger.comBlogger977125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13570898.post-24921541715813347142010-02-19T17:03:00.000-08:002010-02-19T17:04:57.861-08:00The RateItAll Blog has a New HomeWe are circling the wagons and bringing the venerable <a href="http://blog.rateitall.com">RateItAll Blog</a> in house to a new home: <a href="http://blog.rateitall.com">http://blog.rateitall.com</a>.<br /><br />Thanks to Blogger for the memories, and we plan to leave these archive posts up indefinitely.lawrencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614875093460854610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13570898.post-51586981423715946552010-02-16T12:13:00.001-08:002010-02-16T12:21:09.616-08:00Talking Winter OlympicsOK, here is what we have going on the topic of the Olympics:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-3019305-athletes-of-the-2010-vancouver-olympics.aspx">Athletes of the 2010 Winter Games</a><br />Rate the athletes like<a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-3169782-bode-miller-usa--alpine-skier.aspx"> Bode Miller</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-3169765-lindsey-vonn-usa--alpine-skier.aspx">Lindsey Vonn</a>, etc.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-3016582-events-of-the-2010-winter-olympics.aspx">Events of the 2010 Winter Games</a><br />Rating and commenting on stuff like <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-3167651-opening-ceremonies.aspx">the Opening Ceremonies</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-3167652-anti-olympic-protests.aspx">The Anti-Olympic Protests</a>, and the tragic <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-3167654-death-of-georgian-luger-nodar-kumaritashvili.aspx">death of the Georgian luger</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-459-winter-games-events.aspx">Winter Games Events</a><br />Rate the events themselves like<a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-482-figure-skating.aspx"> Figure Skating</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-486-short-track.aspx">Short Track</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-484-ice-hockey.aspx">Ice Hockey</a>, etc.lawrencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614875093460854610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13570898.post-90426155135429377642010-02-08T15:26:00.000-08:002010-02-08T15:53:09.989-08:00Treatment of New RateItAll MembersFor the most part, I believe the RateItAll community to be pretty fair and decent in its treatment of issues and each other.<br /><br />But recently, I've been noticing a disturbing trend of a handful of regulars picking on new users. <br /><br />It doesn't take a rocket scientist to tell you that an online community that scares away new members is an online community that will struggle to grow.<br /><br />As such, this is a very, very big deal to me and the rest of the RIA team, and we are moving the issue up the priority list.<br /><br />To date, we've asked folks to police themselves in this area. Sure, I've sent the occasional private message or made the <a href="http://rateitall.blogspot.com/2009/03/please-be-nice-to-new-members.html">occasional blog post</a>. But to date, we haven't made any institutional changes.<br /><br />But as the community grows, this doesn't seem to be enough.<br /><br />Effective immediately, we are going to treat the issue with a combination of "legislation" - aka, site rules, and tools.<br /><br />On the tools side, we are exploring a number of member and admin controlled tools including the ability to block another member from commenting on your stuff or messaging you, and the ability to lock a thread.<br /><br />On the rules side, effective immediately, anyone who is seen as harassing, flaming, or otherwise making things unpleasant for a new member will be suspended for one week. Subsequent transgressions will be treated more harshly.<br /><br />Just to make it easy, this includes harassing new members who deserve to be harassed - like the folks who join just to post some wingnut political conspiracy.<br /><br />New members are to be treated with kid gloves, period, no matter how wacky, tasteless, or disturbed they appear to be.<br /><br />Those of you who have known me for a while know that I really hate this. I really hate to try and legislate away social issues. But I've asked, and I've reasoned, and I've warned, but folks don't seem to be getting the message. And if folks won't willingly be a part of a culture that welcomes new members, we will lay the hammer down. Nobody is bigger than the site.lawrencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614875093460854610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13570898.post-77721156713811198342010-02-05T12:05:00.001-08:002010-02-05T12:10:33.576-08:00Super Bowl!Oh yeah, it's Super Bowl weekend.<br /><br />Here is what we have going on at RateItAll<br /><br />- Rate the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-3011104-2010-super-bowl-commercials.aspx">2010 Super Bowl Commercials</a> (coming soon)<br />- <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-25992-greatest-nfl-team-not-to-win-super-bowl.aspx">Greatest teams NOT to win the Super Bowl</a><br />- <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-23087-super-bowl-food.aspx">Best Super Bowl Food</a><br />- <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-26866-the-list-of-super-bowl-party-guests.aspx">Super Bowl Party Guests</a><br /><br />And of course, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-20403-peyton-manning.aspx">Peyton Manning</a> and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-25474-drew-brees.aspx">Drew Brees</a> are very rate-able.lawrencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614875093460854610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13570898.post-73959869860066448522010-02-04T16:45:00.000-08:002010-02-04T16:49:10.764-08:00Improvements to Local SearchWe've rolled out some small, but helpful improvements to our search results page when searching for local businesses. We've added the state or country to the breadcrumb trail, which is helpful when searching for things like <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/Search.aspx?q=athens+bars">Athens Bars</a> (you can now see which one is Athens, Greece, and which one is Athens, GA), and we've also added address, phone number, and map info for local queries. Here's a pic:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.rateitall.com/Search.aspx?q=san%20francisco%20taquerias"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 346px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_yKT68D5qW3nfVny6BLPQEePNCIzyE9LE60eDeInPSSsMH0ihr32FyoIpgwdeEh2zyLIOOlbfP5xxBAShEs0bwWpyeYT-RXUWjFQVFxvyVjyTieFOSvn302oL-ci8IRekAA02/s400/Picture+28.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434554691845542930" border="0" /></a>lawrencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614875093460854610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13570898.post-42568129982721986982010-01-28T14:03:00.001-08:002010-01-28T14:03:54.790-08:00If you haven't already...... please write a review of Catcher in the Rye:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-17468-the-catcher-in-the-rye-jd-salinger.aspx">http://www.rateitall.com/i-17468-the-catcher-in-the-rye-jd-salinger.aspx</a>lawrencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614875093460854610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13570898.post-30022123691178712912010-01-27T17:53:00.000-08:002010-01-27T18:02:07.977-08:00In the News: January 27<ul><li>After months of build-up, the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-3150657-apple-ipad.aspx">Apple iPad</a> has launched</li><li><a class="zem_olink" href="http://bostonist.com/2010/01/27/howard_zinn_has_died.php" title="Howard Zinn Has Died">President Obama</a> is delivering a State of the Union Address</li><li><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-757485-howard-zinn.aspx">Howard Zinn</a>, author of the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-836-peoples-history-of-the-united-states-howard-zinn.aspx">People's History of the United States</a>, has passed away.</li><li>Four Arrested Trying to <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-3150417-four-arrested-trying-to-tamper-with-phones-at-the-office-of-senatory-mary-landrieu.aspx">Tamper with Phones</a> at the Office of Senatory <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-34951-landrieu-mary-d-la.aspx">Mary Landrieu</a><br /></li></ul> <div style="margin-top: 10px; height: 15px;" class="zemanta-pixie"><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/1ef9001f-c4d0-4295-9a9e-bdd991643cb4/" title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]"><img style="border: medium none ; float: right;" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=1ef9001f-c4d0-4295-9a9e-bdd991643cb4" alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" /></a><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></div>lawrencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614875093460854610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13570898.post-18336483913039619912010-01-26T17:58:00.001-08:002010-01-26T18:02:26.026-08:00Trending TopicsWe've just rolled in a new module that shows the titles of lists that are receiving lots of reviews at any given moment in time - we're calling this module "Trending Topics." Unlike the Featured Topics module, the Trending Topics box populates algorithmically, with no editorial input from RIA staff.<br /><br />You can see Trending Topics on your logged in home page, as well as a number of other places. Here's a screenshot:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.rateitall.com"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 301px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAaw_P0z9qfzUpo36eVi94AquTtlTfjUAoDyGRJ5CNnWD__D73uQdIklr16rSR-AHJGZiCP5M0_X7_bNfRwOOcZGT9G5Hs3X5f5iCpp7dk92aRef6SwtKsOfWw5eLUJc5nsOPw/s400/Picture+21.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431233745683148930" border="0" /></a>lawrencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614875093460854610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13570898.post-38878672874137751862010-01-21T18:48:00.001-08:002010-01-21T18:51:21.610-08:00In the News: January 21Here's what's going on in the news today with the links to the related RIA page:<br /><br /><ul><li><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-3135405-earthquake-devastates-haiti.aspx">Haiti</a></li><li>A supreme court decision regarding <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-3145067-supreme-court-overturns-ban-on-direct-corporate-spending-on-elections.aspx">corporations spending on elections</a></li><li><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-3143421-republican-scott-brown-wins-massachussetts-senate-race.aspx">Scott Brown</a><br /></li></ul>lawrencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614875093460854610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13570898.post-10531038918752779692010-01-20T12:30:00.000-08:002010-01-20T15:47:31.951-08:00Best of the Decade Product WinnersWe've been working hard closing the loop on our <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/wt-best-of-the-decade-products.aspx">Best Products of the Decade awards</a>.<br /><br /><p> Here is the complete list of <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/wt-best-of-the-decade-products.aspx">Best of the Decade Product Winners</a>: </p> <p><br />Automotive </p> <p> In the ATV category, the winners were the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-61982-honda-450r.aspx">Honda 450R</a>, the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-61986-yamaha-raptor-350.aspx">Yamaha Raptor</a>, and the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-44494-honda-rincon.aspx">Honda Rincon</a>. </p> <p> In the Motorcycle category, the winners were the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11563-kawasaki-ninja.aspx">Kawasaki Ninja</a>, the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11532-ducati-996.aspx">Ducati 996</a>, and the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11545-honda-cbr-series.aspx">Honda CBR</a>. </p> <p> In the Pickup Truck category, the winners were the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-12014-ford-f-350.aspx">Ford F-350</a>, the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-12012-ford-f-150.aspx">Ford F-150</a>, and the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-12007-chevrolet-silverado.aspx">Chevrolet Silverado</a>.<br /><br />In the Station Wagon and Minivan category, the winners were the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-22955-subaru-outback.aspx">Subaru Outback</a>, the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11859-toyota-sienna.aspx">Toyota Sienna</a>, and the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11841-honda-odyssey.aspx">Honda Odyssey</a>. </p> <p> In the Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) category, the winners were the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11500-jeep-wrangler.aspx">Jeep Wrangler</a>, the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11519-toyota-landcruiser.aspx">Toyota Landcruiser</a>, and the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11499-jeep-grand-cherokee.aspx">Jeep Grand Cherokee</a>. </p> <p> In the Sports Car category, the winners were the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11398-chevrolet-corvette.aspx">Chevrolet Corvette</a>, the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11407-ford-mustang.aspx">Ford Mustang</a>, and the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11391-audi-tt-coupe.aspx">Audi TT Coupe</a>. </p> <p> In the Sedan category, the winners were the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11934-honda-civic.aspx">Honda Civic</a>, the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11933-honda-accord.aspx">Honda Accord</a>, and the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11984-toyota-corolla.aspx">Toyota Corolla</a>.<br /><br />In the Motor Oil Brand category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-218610-wal-mart-super-tech-motor-oil.aspx">Walmart Super Tech</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-29111-valvoline.aspx">Valvoline</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-29107-quaker-state.aspx">Quaker State</a>. </p> <p><br />Beverages </p> <p> In the Beer category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-7710-heineken.aspx">Heineken</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-7707-guinness-stout.aspx">Guinness</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-7700-corona.aspx">Corona</a>. </p> <p> In the Bottled Water category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-851342-fiji.aspx">Fiji</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-58715-aquafina.aspx">Aquafina</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-61768-evian.aspx">Evian</a>. </p> <p> In the Energy Drink category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-21729-red-bull.aspx">Red Bull</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-25845-xs.aspx">XS</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-863544-5-hour-energy.aspx">5 Hour Energy</a>. </p> <p> In the Gin category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-7641-bombay-sapphire.aspx">Bombay Sapphire</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-7650-tanqueray.aspx">Tanqueray</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-53301-hendricks.aspx">Hendrick's</a>. </p> <p> In the Hard Cider category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-2379-k-cider.aspx">K Cider,</a> <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-7300-hornsbys-cider.aspx">Hornsby's</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-7296-woodchuck-amber-draft-cider.aspx">Woodchuck Amber</a>. </p> <p> In the Mexican Beer category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-45207-dos-equis.aspx">Dos Equis</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-45210-pacifico.aspx">Pacifico</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-45206-tecate.aspx">Tecate</a>. </p> <p> In the Orange Juice Brand category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-56943-tropicana.aspx">Tropicana</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-56946-floridas-natural.aspx">Florida's Natural</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-56945-minute-maid.aspx">Minute Maid</a>. </p> <p> Rum </p> <p> In the Rum category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-7605-bacardi-151.aspx">Bacardi 151</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-7608-captain-morgans-spiced-rum.aspx">Captain Morgan</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-7613-malibu.aspx">Malibu</a>. </p> <p> In the Scotch category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-7688-laphraoig-10-year.aspx">Laphroaig 10 Year</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-7681-glenlivet.aspx">Glenlivet</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-58567-lagavulin-scotch-16-year.aspx">Lagavulin 16 Year</a>.<br /> <br />In the Tequila category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-7627-don-julio.aspx">Don Julio</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-7626-cuervo-gold.aspx">Cuervo Gold</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-7625-cuervo-1800.aspx">Cuervo 1800</a>. </p> <p> In the Vodka category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-7915-grey-goose.aspx">Grey Goose</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-7913-stolichnaya.aspx">Stolichnaya</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-7912-smirnoff.aspx">Smirnoff</a>. </p> <p> In the Whiskey / Bourbon category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-7263-makers-mark.aspx">Maker's Mark</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-7258-jack-daniels.aspx">Jack Daniel's</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-7265-old-grand-dad.aspx">Old Grand Dad</a>. </p> <p><br />Companies<br /> <br />In the Airline category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-6992-continental-airlines.aspx">Continental Airlines</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-6999-southwest-airlines.aspx">Southwest Airlines</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-6993-delta-airlines.aspx">Delta Airlines</a>. </p> <p> In the Automobile Insurance Provider category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-26353-progressive.aspx">Progressive</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-26528-geico-direct.aspx">Geico</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-26293-esurance.aspx">Esurance</a>. </p> <p> In the Bank category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-10199-bank-of-america.aspx">Bank of America</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-10204-wells-fargo.aspx">Wells Fargo</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-10213-usbank.aspx">USBank</a>. </p> <p> In the Car and Truck Rental category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-7023-enterprise.aspx">Enterprise</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-28286-fox-rent-a-car.aspx">Fox</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-7020-avis-rent-a-car.aspx">Avis</a>.<br /> <br />In the Department Store category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-25239-target.aspx">Target</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11752-wal-mart.aspx">Wal-Mart</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11747-nordstrom.aspx">Nordstrom</a>.<br /><br />In the Cell Phone Service Provider, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11611-sprint-pcs.aspx">Sprint</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11617-verizon-wireless.aspx">Verizon</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11603-att-wireless-services.aspx">AT&T</a>. </p> <p> In the Insurance Company category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-240340-state-farm.aspx">State Farm</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-240344-geico.aspx">Geico</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-240346-nationwide.aspx">Nationwide</a>. </p> <p> In the Jewelry Store category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-21882-whitehall-jewelers.aspx">Whitehall</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-22192-kay-jewelers.aspx">Kay</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-2289-finlay-fine-jewelry.aspx">Finlay</a>. </p> <p> In the Moving Company category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-953616-ny-international-shipping.aspx">NY International</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-980806-partner-van-lines.aspx">Partner Van Lines</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-57078-moving-staffers.aspx">Moving Staffers</a>.<br /> <br />In the Satellite Internet Access Provider, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-837519-wildblue.aspx">WildBlue</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-26680-direcway.aspx">DirecWay</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-961058-hughesnet.aspx">HughesNet</a>. </p> <p> In the Cable Internet Access Provider, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-19158-road-runner.aspx">Road Runner</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-25506-comcast.aspx">Comcast</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-25512-charter-communications.aspx">Charter Communications</a>. </p> <p> In the Satellite Television Provider, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-26676-directv.aspx">DirectTV</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-26677-dish-network.aspx">DISH Network</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-28129-star-choice.aspx">Star Choice</a>. </p> <p> In the Executives category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-920227-mark-zuckerberg-facebook.aspx">Mark Zuckerberg</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-5351-steve-jobs-apple.aspx">Steve Jobs</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-5335-bill-gates-microsoft.aspx">Bill Gates</a>. </p> <p><br />Education </p> <p> In the Online University category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-28326-university-of-phoenix-online.aspx">University of Phoenix</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-28324-capella-university.aspx">Capella University</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-28327-devry-university.aspx">DeVry University</a>. </p> <p> In the U.S. College or University category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-18500-stanford-university.aspx">Stanford University</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-18457-harvard-university.aspx">Harvard University</a>, and<br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-18443-cornell-university.aspx">Cornell University</a>. </p> <p><br />Electronics<br /> <br />In the Mobile Phones category, the winners were the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-945667-apple-iphone.aspx">Apple iPhone</a>, the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11702-nokia-5100-series.aspx">Nokia 5100</a>, and the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11703-nokia-6100-series.aspx">Nokia 6100</a>.<br /><br />In the Video Games Systems category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-24966-sony-playstation-2-ps2.aspx">Sony PlayStation 2</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-24967-microsoft-xbox.aspx">Microsoft Xbox</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-939562-nintendo-wii.aspx">Nintendo Wii.</a> </p> <p><br />Fashion </p> <p> In the Clothing Stores category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-12371-victorias-secret.aspx">Victoria's Secret</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-12368-old-navy.aspx">Old Navy</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-12351-american-eagle-outfitters.aspx">American Eagle</a>.<br /><br />In the Men's Underwear Brand, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-3606-fruit-of-the-loom.aspx">Fruit of the Loom</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-22079-hanes.aspx">Hanes</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-2283-calvin-klein.aspx">Calvin Klein</a>. </p> <p><br />Fast Food </p> <p> In the Fast Food Chains category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-8684-wendys-old-fashioned-hamburgers.aspx">Wendy's</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-8681-subway-sandwiches-and-salads.aspx">Subway</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-8675-mcdonalds.aspx">McDonald's</a>. </p> <p> In the McDonald's Menu Items category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-2838-big-mac.aspx">Big Mac</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-2877-mcdonalds-french-fries.aspx">French Fries</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-2523-shake.aspx">McShake</a>. </p> <p> In the Sit-Down Dining Chains category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-8628-outback-steakhouse.aspx">Outback Steakhouse</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-8626-olive-garden-italian-restaurant.aspx">Olive Garden</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-8608-cheesecake-factory.aspx">Cheesecake Factory</a>. </p> <p> In the Wendy's Menu Items category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-55596-frosty.aspx">Frosty</a>, Jr. <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-55578-jr-bacon-cheeseburger.aspx">Bacon Cheeseburger</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-55580-spicy-chicken-sandwich.aspx">Spicy Chicken Sandwich</a>.<br /> </p> <p> Groceries </p> <p> In the Frozen Pizza category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-4184-di-giorno.aspx">DiGiorno</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-4185-freschetta.aspx">Freschetta</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-4190-stouffers-french-bread.aspx">Stouffer's</a>. </p> <p> In the Girl Scout Cookies category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-13984-thin-mints.aspx">Thin Mints</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-13989-samoas-caramel-de-lites.aspx">Samoas</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-13987-tagalongs-peanut-butter-patties.aspx">Tagalongs</a>. </p> <p> In the Hot Sauce category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-62129-baboon-ass-brand-hot-sauce.aspx">Baboon Ass</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-33374-cholula.aspx">Cholula</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-33376-tabasco.aspx">Tabasco</a>. </p> <p> In the Ice Cream Brand category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-53883-ben-and-jerrys.aspx">Ben & Jerry's</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-53886-edys.aspx">Dreyer's</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-53881-haagen-dazs.aspx">Haagen-Dazs</a>.<br /> <br />Health </p> <p> In the Cold and Flu Remedies category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-24505-zicam.aspx">Zicam</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-10783-nyquil.aspx">NyQuil</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-10791-theraflu.aspx">TheraFlu</a>. </p> <p> In the Diet Products category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-23581-jenny-craig.aspx">Jenny Craig</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-859598-isagenix.aspx">Isagenix</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-23573-weight-watchers.aspx">Weight Watchers</a>. </p> <p> In the Hair Loss Treatment category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-22580-nioxin.aspx">Nioxin</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-26284-kevis.aspx">Kevis</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-22587-viviscal.aspx">Viviscal</a>. </p> <p> In the Prescription Blemish Treatment category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-5785-isotretinoin-accutane.aspx">Accutane</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-27948-benzaclin.aspx">BenzaClin</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-27947-duac-topical-gel.aspx">Duac</a>. </p> <p> In the Prescription Drugs category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-26568-vicodin.aspx">Vicodin</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-26625-viagra.aspx">Viagra</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-27928-ambien.aspx">Ambien</a>.<br /> <br />In the Non-Prescription Blemish Treatment category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11381-proactiv-solution.aspx">Proactive Solution</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-22629-zenmed-derma-cleanse.aspx">ZenMED Derma Cleanse</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11368-biore-pore-deep-cleansing-face-strips.aspx">Biore Pure</a>. </p> <p> <br />Home & Garden<br /> <br />In the Laundry Detergent category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-5331-tide.aspx">Tide</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-5328-gain.aspx">Gain</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-5325-arm-hammer.aspx">Arm & Hammer</a>.<br /> <br />In the Vacuum Cleaner category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-27943-rainbow-cleaning-systems.aspx">Rainbow</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-6320-oreck-xl-series-upright.aspx">Oreck</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-27945-dyson-animal-dc07.aspx">Dyson</a>. </p> <p> In the Dishwasher category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11790-maytag-jetclean-series.aspx">Maytag Jetclean</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11788-whirlpool-gold-series.aspx">Whirlpool Gold</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11794-ge-potscrubber-series.aspx">GE Potscrubber</a>.<br /> <br /> <br />Personal Care<br /> <br />In the Antiperspirant & Deodorant for Men category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-27898-drysol.aspx">Drysol</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-23048-certain-dri-anti-perspirant.aspx">Certain Dri</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-10888-old-spice-high-endurance-deodorant.aspx">Old Spice High Endurance</a>.<br /> <br />In the Antiperspirant & Deodorant for Women category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-23049-certain-dri-anti-perspirant.aspx">Certain Dri</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-27899-drysol.aspx">Drysol</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-10924-secret-platinum-protection-anti-perspirant-deodorant.aspx">Secret Platinum Protection</a>.<br /> <br />In the Bar Soap category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-5316-dove.aspx">Dove</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-5319-lever-2000.aspx">Lever 2000,</a> and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-1180-irish-spring.aspx">Irish Spring</a>.<br /> <br />In the Cosmetics Brand category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-56917-aloette-skin-care-and-cosmetics.aspx">Aloette</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-875123-arbonne-international.aspx">Arbonne Internationa</a>l, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-32286-mary-kay.aspx">Mary Kay</a>.<br /> <br />In the Facial Cleanser category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-10713-noxema-skin-cream.aspx">Noxzema</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-10712-neutrogena-deep-clean-facial-cleanser.aspx">Neutrogena</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11390-cetaphil-gentle-skin-cleanser.aspx">Cetaphil</a>.<br /> <br />In the Fragrance & Cologne for Men category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-10741-cool-water.aspx">Cool Water</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-10763-polo-sport.aspx">Polo Sport</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-10743-drakkar-noir.aspx">Drakkar Noir</a>.<br /> <br />In the Fragrance & Perfume for Women category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11279-tommy-girl.aspx">Tommy Girl</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11267-pleasures.aspx">Pleasures</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11242-ck-one.aspx">CK One</a>. </p> <p> In the Shampoo Brands category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-10834-thermasilk.aspx">Thermasilk</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-10822-pantene.aspx">Pantene</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-10812-herbal-essences.aspx">Herbal Essences</a>. </p> <p> <br />Pets<br /> <br />In the Cat Litter category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-29103-swheat-scoop-cat-litter.aspx">Swheat Scoop</a>, <a href="http://http//www.rateitall.com/i-29093-worlds-best-cat-litter.aspx">World's Best Cat Litter</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-29104-feline-pine-cat-litter-by-natures-earth-products.aspx">Feline Pine</a>.<br /><br />In the Dog Food Brands category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-714334-blue-buffalo-dog-food.aspx">Blue Buffalo</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-949636-orijen.aspx">Orijen</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-240577-innova-evo-dog-food.aspx">Innova EVO</a>. </p> <p> <br />Sporting Goods<br /> <br />In the Rifle category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-25631-remington-model-870.aspx">Remington Model 700</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-29252-remington-7mm-magnum.aspx">Remington 7MM Magnum</a>, and the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-25599-ruger-no-1-standard.aspx">Ruger No. 1 Standard</a>.<br /> <br />In the Running Shoes category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-10593-nike-air-structure-triax.aspx">Nike Air Structure Triax</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-10590-new-balance-702.aspx">New Balance 702</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-10591-new-balance-803.aspx">New Balance 803</a>. </p> <p> In the Shotgun category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-25631-remington-model-870.aspx">Remington Model 870</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-25632-mossberg-model-500.aspx">Mossberg Model 500m</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-2091-ruger-red-label.aspx">Ruger Red Label</a>.<br /> <br />In the Skateboard (Decks) category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-10503-element.aspx">Element</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-10518-zero.aspx">Zero</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-10494-alien-workshop.aspx">Alien Workshop</a>. </p> <p> In the Skateboard Truck category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-3540-thunder.aspx">Thunder</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-3537-independent.aspx">Independent</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-25562-tensor.aspx">Tensor</a>.<br /> <br />In the Snowboard category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-10989-burton.aspx">Burton</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11011-k-2.aspx">K-2</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-11014-lamar.aspx">Lamar</a>.<br /> <br /> <br />Tobacco<br /> <br />In the Cigarettes category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-7104-newport.aspx">Newport</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-25865-marlboro-blend-no-27.aspx">Malboro Blend No. 27</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-29281-newport-100.aspx">Newport 100</a>. </p> <p> In the Cigars category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-25865-marlboro-blend-no-27.aspx">Black and Mild</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-7090-philly-blunts.aspx">Philly Blunts</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-7091-swisher-sweets.aspx">Swisher Sweets</a>.<br /> <br />In the Smokeless Tobacco category, the winners were <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-842153-grizzly-smokeless-tobacco.aspx">Grizzly Smokeless Tobacco</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-5675-copenhagen.aspx">Copenhagen</a>, and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-5826-skoal.aspx">Skoal</a>.<br /></p><p><br /></p><p>Congratulations to all the winners!<br /></p>lawrencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614875093460854610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13570898.post-71624249739511113802010-01-18T17:18:00.000-08:002010-01-18T18:38:46.025-08:00Get ready for your trip to the snowThis is a must have check list for your skiing/snowboarding trip:<br /><br />For skiers:<br />Boots - For <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-1757878-mens-ski-boots.aspx">him</a> and for <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-2783508-womens-ski-boots.aspx">her</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-3001384-skiing-gloves.aspx">Gloves</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-3001385-skiing-helmets.aspx">Helmets</a><br />Jackets - For <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-566-ski-jackets-mens.aspx">him</a> and for <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-29614-ski-jackets-womens.aspx">her</a><br />Pants - For <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-3001382-men%27s-skiing-pants.aspx">him</a> and for <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-3001383-women%27s-skiing-pants.aspx">her</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-552-skis-downhill.aspx">Skis</a><br /><br />For snowboarders:<br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-2783509-snowboard-bags.aspx">Bags</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-571-snowboards-bindings.aspx">Bindings</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-572-snowboards-boots.aspx">Boots</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-29729-snowboard-goggles.aspx">Goggles</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-2783511-snowboard-and-ski-wax.aspx">Ski Wax</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-553-snowboards.aspx">Snowboards</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-2783512-snowboard-tuning-tools.aspx">Tuning Tools</a>JoseCasquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12144805946931438785noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13570898.post-79559201518203042532010-01-18T10:16:00.000-08:002010-01-18T10:25:33.598-08:00On MLKLots of places on RateItAll to reflect about Martin Luther King Jr. You can read reactions to his life and work <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-14107-martin-luther-king-jr.aspx">as a leader</a>, as <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-30879-martin-luther-king-jr.aspx">an orator</a>, and of course, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-3797-martin-luther-king-jr-day.aspx">the day</a> named in his name.lawrencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614875093460854610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13570898.post-60442560087424909492010-01-14T16:17:00.000-08:002010-01-14T16:32:14.827-08:00RateItAll Best of the Decade AwardsFor the past few weeks or so, we've been heads down on a very ambitious project - making sense of ten years of data to determine the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/wt-best-of-the-decade-awards.aspx">RateItAll Best of the Decade Awards</a>. The awards were given over 157 different categories, loosely broken into "<a href="http://www.rateitall.com/wt-best-of-the-decade-products.aspx">Products</a>" and "<a href="http://www.rateitall.com/wt-best-of-the-decade-culture.aspx">Culture</a>."<br /><br />We hosted a small, invitation only event to unveil the data at RateItAll's headquarters.<br /><br />Here is the presentation from that event - RIA old timers will likely get a kick out of the RateItAll timeline on one of the slides:<br /><br /><div style="width: 425px; text-align: left;" id="__ss_2918117"><a style="margin: 12px 0pt 3px; font-family: Helvetica,Arial,Sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 14px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; display: block; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.slideshare.net/lawrencecoburn/rateitall-best-of-the-decade-awards-slides" title="RateItAll Best of the Decade Awards Slides">RateItAll Best of the Decade Awards Slides</a><object style="margin: 0px;" height="355" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://static.slidesharecdn.com/swf/ssplayer2.swf?doc=botdslides-100114174123-phpapp02&stripped_title=rateitall-best-of-the-decade-awards-slides"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><embed src="http://static.slidesharecdn.com/swf/ssplayer2.swf?doc=botdslides-100114174123-phpapp02&stripped_title=rateitall-best-of-the-decade-awards-slides" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="355" width="425"></embed></object><div style="font-size: 11px; font-family: tahoma,arial; height: 26px; padding-top: 2px;">View more <a style="text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.slideshare.net/">presentations</a> from <a style="text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.slideshare.net/lawrencecoburn">lawrencecoburn</a>.</div></div>And here are a few photos that RateItAll's <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/automatt">Automatt</a> snapped from the show:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzOCbsmOYJ3kn46KwWMcGkYpc_I3yoIOKMBIwh7v9l-OHuKrqu4HTdQc8Xvz75Ppj4V_-0Nv7XF1hrIKKw3pznhQgJDxoXKkGmRTpUP7-6c64ogP5uh7Y_QJ2Wd245AnciCwg8/s1600-h/botd.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzOCbsmOYJ3kn46KwWMcGkYpc_I3yoIOKMBIwh7v9l-OHuKrqu4HTdQc8Xvz75Ppj4V_-0Nv7XF1hrIKKw3pznhQgJDxoXKkGmRTpUP7-6c64ogP5uh7Y_QJ2Wd245AnciCwg8/s400/botd.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426756883093884338" border="0" /></a><br /><br />RateItAll's <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/cimbrel30">Cimbrel30</a>, who is from Spain, arranged for Tapas to be brought in. They were delicious.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ituAfDRE0LER0vPG6XBkP7pKG5Q3-NVRCEJshohy2RFPVT4YsQcWz6zCQ8yaSMJ4Tdd6twnQxmn_FEVOvSaCyRm9xLmf40dTM4cieKR7zXcT_onvI3QrgofOqTdBSBtPCUgP/s1600-h/tapas.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ituAfDRE0LER0vPG6XBkP7pKG5Q3-NVRCEJshohy2RFPVT4YsQcWz6zCQ8yaSMJ4Tdd6twnQxmn_FEVOvSaCyRm9xLmf40dTM4cieKR7zXcT_onvI3QrgofOqTdBSBtPCUgP/s400/tapas.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426757025523336466" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><fieldset class="zemanta-related"><legend class="zemanta-related-title">Related articles by Zemanta</legend><ul class="zemanta-article-ul"><li class="zemanta-article-ul-li"><a href="http://www.prweb.com/releases/2010/01/prweb3445484.htm">Consumer Rating Website RateItAll.com Announces its Best of the Decade Awards</a> (prweb.com)</li></ul></fieldset> <div style="margin-top: 10px; height: 15px;" class="zemanta-pixie"><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/181e3b01-a174-4032-be4c-ad0b5e251dd9/" title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]"><img style="border: medium none ; float: right;" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=181e3b01-a174-4032-be4c-ad0b5e251dd9" alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" /></a><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></div>lawrencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614875093460854610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13570898.post-4116570042304348882010-01-13T12:33:00.000-08:002010-01-13T12:35:37.657-08:00In the News: January 13Two big stories today:<br /><br />- <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-3135405-earthquake-devastates-haiti.aspx">a devastating earthquake in Haiti</a><br />- <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-3135475-google-squares-off-with-china.aspx">The Google / China showdown</a>lawrencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614875093460854610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13570898.post-12750994794350239882010-01-07T10:28:00.000-08:002010-01-07T10:35:42.267-08:00In the News: January 7Here is what we have going on in the headlines today, with links to the appropriate RIA page:<br /><br />- <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-3104862-gilbert-arenas-is-indefinitely-suspended-by-the-nba-for-carrying-an-unloaded-weapon-inside-an-nba-arena.aspx">Gilbert Arenas' suspension</a> (note: don't mess with <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-50818-david-stern-nba.aspx">David Stern</a>)<br />- Google's new "superphone," <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-2973042-htc-nexus-one.aspx">the Nexus One</a><br />- <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-3104777-christopher-dodd-announces-retirement.aspx">Chris Dodd's planned retirement</a><br />- <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-3107213-senator-byron-dorgan-d-nd-announces-retirement.aspx">Byron Dorgan's planned retirement</a><br />- A pending debrief on the <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-3058704-nigerian-tries-to-blow-up-plane-bound-for-detroit.aspx">underwear bomber</a> fiasco<br />- <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-3104197-andre-dawson-elected-to-baseball-hall-of-fame.aspx">Andre Dawson to the baseball HOF</a>lawrencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614875093460854610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13570898.post-31624407596494226672010-01-06T17:13:00.000-08:002010-01-06T17:24:51.317-08:00Camping GearIs your New Year's resolution to get out of the city and enjoy nature a little more? If so, here is a check list with the equipment you need for a safe camping trip:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-27410-camping-chairs.aspx">Camping Chairs</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-27379-camping-cookware.aspx">Camping Cookware</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-27412-camping-hammocks.aspx">Hammock</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-2765346-camping-lanterns.aspx">Lantern</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-1756834-camping-stove-reviews.aspx">Stoves</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-27411-camping-tables.aspx">Camping Tables</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-2765352-compasses.aspx">Compasses</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-1756840-portable-generators.aspx">Portable Generators</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-27414-sleeping-bags.aspx">Sleeping Bags</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-2765348-water-microfilters.aspx">Water Microfilters</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-2765347-hiking-poles.aspx">Hiking Poles</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-562-tents.aspx">Tents</a>JoseCasquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12144805946931438785noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13570898.post-27863259645160486422010-01-06T16:23:00.000-08:002010-01-06T16:28:32.204-08:00Claim Those 2010 ListsWord has it that it's a new year.<br /><br />It's time to crank up those 2010 lists before other people beat you to the punch.<br /><br />I'm returning with my two mainstays:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-2987869-events-of-2010.aspx">Top News Stories of 2010</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-2987867-sports-stories-of-2010.aspx">Top Sports Stories of 2010</a><br /><br />And for gosh sake, can somebody please help me with 3 more French beers? It's embarrassing having a list of <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-22879-10-top-french-beers.aspx">Top Ten French Beers</a> with only seven beers on it.<br /><br />(sort of an odd related content selection below, but I'm going to run with it)<br /><br /><fieldset class="zemanta-related"><legend class="zemanta-related-title">Related articles by Zemanta</legend><ul class="zemanta-article-ul"><li class="zemanta-article-ul-li"><a href="http://www.neatorama.com/2010/01/05/50-more-worcestershire-sauce/">50% More Worcestershire Sauce!</a> (neatorama.com)</li></ul></fieldset> <div style="margin-top: 10px; height: 15px;" class="zemanta-pixie"><a class="zemanta-pixie-a" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/dca8e5bc-1e1e-4cda-9c7e-6218bf0a1622/" title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]"><img style="border: medium none ; float: right;" class="zemanta-pixie-img" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=dca8e5bc-1e1e-4cda-9c7e-6218bf0a1622" alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" /></a><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></div>lawrencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614875093460854610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13570898.post-35341767058126597802010-01-05T18:14:00.001-08:002010-01-05T18:16:50.300-08:00Cleaning up some indexes, site might be a little sluggishRIA is dragging a bit right now, as we are rebuilding some database indexes. We have more cleanup work planned for later this evening, so tonight might be a good night to take a little RIA breather.<br /><br />What am I saying?<br /><br />Soldier on - the site will be functional, if sluggish.lawrencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614875093460854610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13570898.post-89642425885472714042010-01-04T15:05:00.000-08:002010-01-04T15:17:12.763-08:00Thanks to the RateItAll CommunityHi All, just a quick thanks to everyone who participates on RateItAll for a great 2009.<br /><br />The site went through <a href="http://rateitall.blogspot.com/2009/01/v3.html">a lot of changes</a>. Despite how hard it is to adapt to a new site, just about everybody met the changes head on, gave <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-31209-v3-feedback.aspx">great feedback</a>, bore with us as we worked out the kinks, and went on to master new and improved V3 version of the site.<br /><br />For those of us regulars that are on the site every day sounding off about <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/c-4017-Movies.aspx">movies</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/c-4006-Drinks.aspx">drinks</a>, <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/c-9-politics.aspx">politics</a>, and of course <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-353-dog-food-brands.aspx">pet food</a>, more people than ever read our reviews. More than 15M people read RateItAll reviews in 2009, and we hope to bump that number up significantly in 2010. Click through to read our <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/wt-2009_year_end.aspx">year end press release</a>.<br /><br />We promise not to make any huge changes to the site this year, but also promise to keep tweaking away and making the site tighter, faster, and easier to use than ever. Please, keep your feedback coming.<br /><br />Thanks again for all of your support, and I hope each and every one of you has a fantastic 2010 (complete with plenty of reviews!).lawrencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614875093460854610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13570898.post-5390739884250988002009-12-31T12:55:00.000-08:002009-12-31T13:11:26.874-08:00Happy New Year!Happy New Year to everyone!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-1665-new-years-resolutions.aspx">New Year's Resolutions</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-20879-favorite-things-to-do-on-new-years-day.aspx">Favorite Things to Do on New Years Day</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-221-new-years-eve-necessities.aspx">New Year's Eve Necessities</a>JoseCasquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12144805946931438785noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13570898.post-87793203616145559952009-12-24T16:26:00.000-08:002009-12-24T16:48:32.071-08:00Christmas ListsCheck out these holiday related lists we have highlighted for you.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-226-christmas-carols.aspx">Christmas Carols</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-28757-things-you-hate-about-holidays.aspx">Things You Hate About The Holidays</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-2872797-things-to-love-about-the-holidays.aspx">Things You love About The Holidays</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-222-holiday-tv-specials.aspx">Holiday TV Specials</a><div><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-222-holiday-tv-specials.aspx"></a><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-5427-your-christmas-traditions.aspx">Christmas Traditions</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-20878-favorite-things-to-do-on-christmas-day.aspx">Favorite Things to Do on Christmas Day</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-20881-christmas-guffaws.aspx">Christmas Guffaws</a><br /><br /></div>JoseCasquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12144805946931438785noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13570898.post-86111403630867063122009-12-24T11:26:00.000-08:002009-12-24T11:41:24.115-08:00Pushed Some Small Changes to Facebook SharingWe just pushed some small changes to how RateItAll reviews show up on Facebook, when you choose to share them with your Facebook friends.<br /><br />Now, if there is a photo associated with the item or list, that photo will be included when you share the review, item, or list on Facebook. Here's a screenshot of my Facebook page - note the photo of the little <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-3003304-deuce-brand-fashion-sports-watch.aspx">Deuce Brand Watch</a> that I reviewed:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.facebook.com/ltrain"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 199px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDneNgapQcJNnVVkj2dpQHJ0H3_eZWrr7vLCCbS0kXVIu7Ybj0bzqZRYBlK7U7Mn0gjPhVhvWy_K3zqcqOYXUUjAPnkmOhpjhAK7DoKePi9t5X1GEdEj6TlJrmwWBB2aY9mZ_f/s400/Picture+63.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418887295094994770" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I think the photo looks pretty sharp.<br /><br />I probably only share about 10% of my reviews on Facebook - only the ones that I put a lot of thought into, and the ones that I think my real world friends will appreciate.<br /><br />The other benefit to me, of course, is that people clicking through on my reviews from Facebook tend to give me lots of helpful votes :) And they don't have to login to do so.<br /><br />We chose to make our Facebook integration pretty conservative - if you sync your RateItAll account with Facebook, we will prompt you every time if you want to share on Facebook. No auto spamming here. You can also turn off the Facebook connection at any time just by logging out of RateItAll, and then by logging back in using your RIA login (and not the FB button).<br /><br />It's a neat feature, that's even better now with the photos. I'd encourage you to give a try if you haven't already.<br /><br />To sync your RateItAll account to Facebook, just click on any of the Facebook links that are all over the site (every item page, list page, home page (sidebar), etc.). Here's a screenshot of the RateItAll logged in home page sidebar, where you can sync up with Facebook, to give you the choice of sharing your RateItAll reviews with your Facebook friends.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9gj8dv0fZFlxTW1Rewh0Rtdz8NFQPYBbC6qXKIIflkqYGbw0XD72hsnReQ90R5nteqJmnl-1Sb-BIHE2e3vJ3sbdzTQHCpqoi-TNoGoZaUrTXxBmnskLRmQtwp-IlAt5nqADt/s1600-h/Picture+64.png"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 305px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9gj8dv0fZFlxTW1Rewh0Rtdz8NFQPYBbC6qXKIIflkqYGbw0XD72hsnReQ90R5nteqJmnl-1Sb-BIHE2e3vJ3sbdzTQHCpqoi-TNoGoZaUrTXxBmnskLRmQtwp-IlAt5nqADt/s400/Picture+64.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418888747504086834" border="0" /></a>lawrencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614875093460854610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13570898.post-27879467907226857832009-12-23T14:15:00.001-08:002009-12-23T14:27:50.871-08:00The Lists of 2009OK, we're closing out another year here on RIA, and I wanted to surface a few of the lists that people have made about this last year of the 00's. Here we go:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-30216-movies-of-2009.aspx">Movies of 2009</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-30035-baseball-hall-of-fame-2009-candidates.aspx">Baseball HOF 2009 Candidates</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-2964840-2009-athlete-of-the-year.aspx"></a><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-32202-no-1-songs-of-2009.aspx">Number One Songs of 2009</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-1483068-e3-2009.aspx">E3 Video Games of 2009</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-31208-events-of-2009.aspx">Events of 2009</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-43998-2009-oscar-nominees.aspx">2009 Oscar Nominees</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-43230-2009s-dead-celebrities.aspx">2009's Dead Celebrities</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-43997-sports-stories-of-2009.aspx">Sports Stories of 2009</a><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-2844588-obama-report-card-2009.aspx">Obama Report Card 2009</a>lawrencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614875093460854610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13570898.post-67260983054449976482009-12-22T10:35:00.000-08:002009-12-22T11:03:03.337-08:00Top Rated Video Game SystemsIt's officially time for last (last!) minute Christmas shopping. Are you completely stuck? Give the gift of gaming.<br /><br />As for which system to buy, RateItAll can provide you all the information you need with its <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-816-video-game-systems.aspx">Top Rated Video Game Systems</a> list.<br /><br />Check out these reviews:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-24966-sony-playstation-2-ps2.aspx">Sony PlayStation 2</a> - " The best console for gaming ever released. It has lived a long plentiful life and is still alive. Companies continue to release better games for the PS2 pushing the limits of its aging processors..." <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/r-2419043.aspx">read more</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-24967-microsoft-xbox.aspx">Microsoft Xbox</a> - " I didn't like it when it first came out and I don't like it now, not many exclusive titles are on it that I would consider AAA's, other than Forza, Halo, DOA, and Ninja Gaiden there isn't much that comes to mind..." <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/r-2433474.aspx">read more</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-939562-nintendo-wii.aspx">Nintendo Wii</a> - " The Nintendo Wii is a great family gaming system. That does mean it may not be ideal for serious gamers..." <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/r-4471554.aspx">read more</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-24968-nintendo-gamecube.aspx">Nintendo GameCube</a> - " When I played Super Mario Sunshine, I saw just how impressive Nintendo's GameCube is. The graphics that are on some of these games are marvelous. This is a damn good game system indeed..." <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/r-4447748.aspx">read more</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-874585-microsoft-xbox-360.aspx">Microsoft Xbox 360</a> - "I got this for my Birthday in May and so far everything's great. I got the limited edition 360 that included Halo3 and Fable 2 with it so that was a nice surprise..." <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/r-4383983.aspx">read more</a>.<br /><br />Oh! He doesn't like playing video games... see other options on this guide of <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/wt-best_christmas_gifts_men.aspx">2009 Best Christmas Gifts for Men</a>.JoseCasquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12144805946931438785noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13570898.post-72333067550991629702009-12-21T10:30:00.000-08:002009-12-21T22:28:41.432-08:00In the News: December 21Here are a few events from over the Weekend:<br /><br />World Leaders, including President <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-86392-barack-obama.aspx">Obama</a>, gathered in Copenhagen to sign a new <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-2963293-the-un-climate-change-conference-opens-in-copenhagen-denmark.aspx">climate deal</a>.<br /><br />Prime Minister <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-2974141-italian-prime-minister-silvio-berlusconi-attacked.aspx">Berlusconi</a> was attacked by a man in Milan, using a replica of the Duomo of Milano as a weapon.<br /><br />Sadly, our <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/t-43230-2009s-dead-celebrities.aspx">2009's Dead Celebrities</a> list was joined by actress <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-3018796-brittany-murphy.aspx">Brittany Murphy</a> and <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-27153-oral-roberts.aspx">Oral Roberts</a>.<br /><br />Finally <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-1389945-avatar.aspx">Avatar</a> came out, and early reviews seem to be very positive.<br /><br />In the tech world, we heard last Thursday about rumors (via <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-865093-techcrunch.aspx">Techcrunch</a>) of <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-851872-yelp.aspx">Yelp</a> being acquired by <a href="http://www.rateitall.com/i-18971-google.aspx">Google</a>. As of Monday December 21st, the deal seems to have <a href="http://www.techcrunch.com/2009/12/20/yelp-walks-away-from-google-deal-and-half-a-billion-dollars/">stalled</a>.JoseCasquethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12144805946931438785noreply@blogger.com0