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Oregon standoff: What should media call armed, white activists?
As authorities seek a 'peaceful' solution to a standoff with Oregon's armed activists, who have taken over a building at the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, journalists and readers debate what to call them.
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Trucks block the entrance to the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge in Eastern Oregon, where armed protesters have taken over an empty federal building, on January 3. The occupiers have asked sympathizers from around the country to join them.
Les Zaitz/ The Oregonian via AP
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Ammon Bundy renewed his calls for "patriots" to join his armed occupiers in eastern Oregon on Sunday, where a group has taken over an empty federal building at the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge to protest federal land management.
"We are asking people to come because we need to be united and have a strong defense," he told reporters, according to Fox News
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While many other ranchers and sympathizers across the country view the group as "patriots," it's hardly the term most use to describe them. The mostly white group, whose numbers are uncertain, has had supplies delivered and is prepared to stay until their demands are met: returning federal land to state or local management.
Once ranchers, loggers, and miners "can use these lands as free men, then we will have accomplished what we came to accomplish," Mr. Bundy said in a video posted to Facebook, calling federal control "tyranny."
The group has said they seek a peaceful resolution, but are ready to defend themselves.
Mainstream media have given the group various names: "occupiers," "armed activists," and "protesters." But debates raging on Twitter, Facebook, and now several mainstream publications suggests that, to many, those labels prove double standards, particularly around protesters' and terrorists' race.
"Face it, Oregon building takeover is terrorism," CNN's National Security Analyst Juliette Kayyem's op-ed headline said Sunday night:
This group of men is wielding terror, and the threat of violence, as if it were their constitutional right. ...They are dangerous, they are unforgiving, they are flouting federal law, they have a political purpose and they clearly are willing to use violence to get their way.
Some have compared the Oregon situation to the siege of the Branch Davidian compound by federal agents outside of Waco, Texas, in 1993, a deadly confrontation that "radicalized a different round of domestic terrorists," according to Harvard Professor Kayyem. But far fewer lives are at stake in the Oregon takeover, leading her to recommend that authorities mobilize the military, but avoid turning the armed men into "martyrs."
Despite the growth of right-wing extremist groups in the United States, particularly since President Barack Obama's election in 2008, some experts say "domestic terrorist" has become a rarely-used label, as foreign extremist Muslim terrorists became a public focus after the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks.
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According to a count from the Washington, D.C.-based think tank New America, jihadist terrorist attacks have killed 45 people in the United States since 9/11. During that time, 48 were killed by "far ring wing attacks," such as the Charleston church massacre. (The count categorizes the San Bernardino shooting as a jihadist attack.)
Although many publications have referred to the men occupying the park headquarters as a 'militia,' other observers point out that the building's remote location and peaceful takeover (no employees were present at the time) makes it premature to consider them violent "terrorists."
The legal definition of domestic terrorism, according to the FBI, are "acts dangerous to human life that violate federal or state law," which "appear intended (i) to intimidate or coerce a civilian population; (ii) to influence the policy of a government by intimidation or coercion; or (iii) to affect the conduct of a government by mass destruction, assassination, or kidnapping."
For others, the most relevant — and telling — comparison is to street protests and riots connected to Black Lives Matter causes.
In Ferguson, Mo., during unrest following Michael Brown's death, the state deployed the National Guard to subdue "enemy forces." In Oregon, on the other hand, armed authorities appeared to be biding their time: activists in camouflage still blocked the entrance to the refuge.
According to NBC, the FBI was leading efforts to find a "peaceful" solution to the standoff, but would not share details out of concern for safety "for both those inside the refuge as well as the law enforcement officers involved."
Others mourned Tamir Rice, the 12-year-old boy fatally shot by a Cleveland police officer last year, whom a grand jury failed to indict in December.
Native American groups were also eager to point out the irony of the armed occupiers' demand to "get their land back." The area was once Paiute tribal land.
John Weaver, a strategist for Ohio governor and GOP presidential contender John Kasich, was one of few political figures to lend his voice to the debate.
Others, particularly Republicans who have previously voiced support for state-based land management, or for the Bundy family themselves, have not commented on the Oregon takeover.
According to The Washington Post, Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, also a Republican presidential candidate, said amid the 2014 Bundy standoff with federal officials at Cliven Bundy's, Ammon's father's, ranch in Nevada:
We have seen liberty under assault from a federal government that seems hell-bent on expanding its authority over every aspect of our lives. ...It is in that context that people are viewing this battle with the federal government. We should have a federal government protecting the liberty of the citizens, not using the jackboot of authoritarianism to come against the citizens. | dclm_edu |
Tolkien Gateway
Revision as of 22:55, 2 November 2011 by KingAragorn Bot (Talk | contribs)
The Ainulindalë (Quenya, pronounced [ˌaɪnuˈlindale]) is the title of the first part of The Silmarillion.
The tale begins with Ilúvatar's creation of spirits of lesser power than him, yet of independent nature, named the Ainur ("Holy Ones"). With them Ilúvatar makes divine music. Melkor, one of the greatest of the Ainur, in his pride broke the harmony. Ilúvatar then began the music once more, in which Manwë, Melkor's brother, sang the leading part. Yet again, the harmony was broken.
Finally, Ilúvatar began a third theme which the Ainur could not comprehend since they were not the source of it. He then ceased the music and showed to the Ainur the essence of what their song symbolized, the history of a whole world. This is known as the "Vision of Ilúvatar". The Ainur became fascinated by it, and asked Ilúvatar to put it into being.
Ilúvatar spoke "", that is, "Be!". This command created the universe, and therefore the universe became known as "Eä". Four of the Ainur who possessed the greatest power formed a region within Eä which they called Arda, a world which was to be the scene of all the following tales of The Silmarillion and The Lord of the Rings. Melkor, who was one of the four, attempted to take it for his own. However Manwë, who was also one of the four, asked for the help of other Ainur. They descended to Arda and Melkor was forced to flee to the unknown parts of Eä.
To the mortal Men Eru gave the gift of freedom, so that when they die their souls go somewhere beyond the known existence. Perhaps they go to sing with Ilúvatar the second Music of the Ainur; this is the reason why Men are not constrained by the fate of the Music like the Elves and other beings of Arda are.
The Silmarillion | dclm_edu |
Every team is expected to know the Published
Clarifications for their Challenge.
Before your team asks a Team Clarification, please read all the Published Clarifications for your Challenge below. Click here to ask a Team Clarification. The deadline to ask for Team Clarifications is February 15.
#1 NOVEMBER 1, 2017
In Rules of the Road, section VII.E.4.b should read: “Computers and related equipment: All equipment used as a computer or used to create computing devices are exempt. This includes, but is not limited to: laptops, desktops, mobile devices (such as tablets, smartphones, smartwatches, etc.), printers, networking equipment (such as Wi-Fi hotspots and routers), microcomputers (such as Raspberry Pi), microcontrollers (such as Arduinos and basic stamps) and Lego Mindstorms (only the computer, computer device/intelligent brick, and sensors are exempt). Equipment that is used in the modification of these computing devices is also exempt, including packaged parts such as breadboards and jumpers. Related hardware, such as carts used specifically and only to support the computer, and commercially produced and available software, as long as the product resulting from its use is of the team’s design, are also exempt.”
#2 NOVEMBER 20, 2017
In the Challenge, Section I.G.4 should read: “Design and create an Event Depicter that uses Technical Methods to visibly and/or audibly depict the sudden event within the story.”
#3 DECEMBER 1, 2017
In the Challenge, Section V.C.7 should read: “Dropped weights must be released from within the drop zone by removing all hands from the weight. Any weight that is not dropped from within the drop zone or that is interfered with during free fall will not count toward the Official Weight Held. Successfully dropped weights may not be repositioned after they have come to rest on the weight stack. The Weight Placement Appraiser’s determination is final.” | fineweb_edu |
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Explore Thomas E's board" Male Ballet Costumes" on Pinterest. See more ideas about Ballet costumes, Costume ideas and Boys ballet.
This Ballerina Inflatable Adult Costume is perfect for any occasion. Find more great costume ideas at BuyCostumes. com where life's better in costume! | fineweb_edu |
Merlin’s Millions is a slots game with fifty lines of magical shenanigans distributed over five reels. The graphics are a pure joy; reminiscent of a fun cartoon. The colors are vivid and the animations are smooth. The audio, though less enchanting than the graphics, was only decent. Perhaps a bit grinding at times, but it’s hard to expect anything different when it comes to Vegas style games.
The game play was entertaining and quite addictive. It was a test of fortitude playing, hoping to hit the jackpot. One of the more interesting aspects was the innovative superbet feature. With the ability to use a 10x multiplier you could essentially bet up to 300x your current bet. Talk about going big or going home! This innovation cast the spells needed to earn you that much sought after fortune.
It is also add yet another enjoyable aspect by offering you the ability to earn free spins by landing on the orbs. You get five free spins when you get a line of orbs. Furthermore, the inclusion of wild spaces was a welcoming feature, giving you the optimistic view that you could hit the jackpot at any time.
The nice thing is, you can play in your browser, no need to download an app or extra plugins. It will just be waiting for you when you are struck with the urge to test your luck against the powerful Merlin.
Overall, Merlin’s Millions delivers on the promise to offer the player a entertaining, easy, and addictive slots game for your enjoyment. The Graphics have a charming cartoon approach while offering smooth animations. The audio comes up a bit short, but tolerable. Merlin’s Millions is innovative and fun and offers many facets of play like the superbet feature. You can play right in your browser so no need for any extra installs clogging up your device.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your magic wand and go play! Merlin has Millions in treasure he is waiting to share with you. Go and get your share before the fortune is all gone! Have fun! | fineweb_edu |
Romantic Road: Bavarian museum shows crime never paid March 20, 2002 Share 1 -- ROTHENBURG OB DER TAUBER, Germany -- Of all the sites this Bavarian village has to offer, one of the most interesting and unusual could be the Medieval Crime Museum. Throughout four floors of displays, the museum traces 1,000 years of law and order in Germany.On offer are a plethora of exhibits of gruesome torture devices used to punish criminals -- such as spiked chairs and stretching racks -- as well as other disciplinary tools used to reprimand those convicted of more minor offenses.For instance, the donkey of shame was a wooden creature created as an uncomfortable seat for schoolchildren who didn't know their lessons.And the iron maiden was the torture device that disgraced young women faced.Several varieties of the mask of shame, each designed to fit a certain crime, are also on display.A metal mask with giant, bugle-shaped ears and an elongated, pointy tongue, for example, was the punishment for gossipy women; the oversized tongue and ears were to show that the wearer heard all and repeated all.And the mask of shame that resembles a wart hog was crafted for men who acted like swine. Meanwhile, citizens who committed acts that were deemed idiotic were sentenced to wear "shoes of fools," or footwear made of iron.Even bad musicians couldn't catch a break; they were forced to stand in public with an iron shame flute around their necks.The museum also offers some insight into what office life was like in the early part of the 20th century.A sample office policy instructed workers that "simple clothing is law. Persons are not allowed to wear light or glittery colors and have to wear sensible socks."It was also the employees' responsibility to look after their health, because "in case of sickness, there will be no salary, therefore it's recommended that everyone put away a part of his salary for sickness and old age."Apparently, the boss did have a heart, as this policy was "much better than the last. For this reason, more work is expected."Which was probably just as well, since talking was prohibited from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.The museum is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., from April to October. The hours of operation from November to February are 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., and during March, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.For more information, visit the museum's Web page at www.kriminalmuseum.rothenburg.de/Englisch/page1.html. | fineweb_edu |
// 引入React和Component
import React, {Component} from "react";
// 引入Text，显示文字
import {View, Text, StyleSheet, TouchableOpacity} from "react-native";
// 定义Footer类，这个类是Component的子类
class Footer extends Component {
/*
实现Header类的render方法，这个方法返回一个View，显示Footer
*/
render() {
const {filter} = this.props;
return (
<View style={styles.container}>
<View style={styles.filters}>
<TouchableOpacity style={[styles.filter, filter === 'ALL' && styles.selected]} onPress={() => this.props.onFilter('ALL')}>
<Text>全部</Text>
</TouchableOpacity>
<TouchableOpacity style={[styles.filter, filter === 'ACTIVE' && styles.selected]} onPress={() => this.props.onFilter('ACTIVE')}>
<Text>未完成</Text>
</TouchableOpacity>
<TouchableOpacity style={[styles.filter, filter === 'COMPLETE' && styles.selected]} onPress={() => this.props.onFilter('COMPLETE')}>
<Text>已完成</Text>
</TouchableOpacity>
</View>
</View>
);
}
}
const styles = StyleSheet.create({
container: {
padding: 16,
flexDirection: "row",
alignItems: "center",
justifyContent: "space-between"
},
filters: {
flexDirection: "row"
},
filter: {
padding: 8,
borderRadius: 5,
borderWidth: 1,
borderColor: "transparent"
},
selected: {
borderColor: "rgba(175, 47, 47, .2)"
}
});
// 导出这个模块，供外部调用
export default Footer;
| stack_edu |
via Sports - Google News on 28/06/10
Eight changes give Baby Blues a front-row seat
Sydney Morning Herald
NSW have at last matched it with someone. In choosing four debutants among eight changes for State of Origin III, the Blues will equal the record for most players used in a series. Assuming the same 17 players run out tomorrow week at ANZ Stadium, ... | fineweb_edu |
How to Set a Marketing Budget that Fits your Business
Nov 22, 2017
How to Set a Marketing Budget that Fits your Business Goals and Provides a High Return on Investment
Whether you run a small business or a multi-million dollar corporation, marketing is essential to your profitability and growth. Yet many small businesses don’t allocate enough money to marketing or, worse, spend it haphazardly.
I recently got to know a business that was investing heavily in developing a hip, niche product to add to its already very cool product line. Seemed like a sure winner. However, it quickly became apparent that product development had occurred in a silo, while sales and marketing were off doing their own thing. The result? The week before launch, the business found itself with a fantastic product on its hands, but lacked a go-to-market plan or promotional material for the new product.
In a panic, an expensive PR firm, social media strategist, and marketing consultant were all pulled in to help drive awareness of the new product. Within a few weeks, the budget had run dry and the business had to quickly revisit its overall operational and sales and marketing strategy, while moving forward on a shoestring.
Products and services don’t sell themselves. By ignoring marketing until it’s too late, many small businesses risk hitting a brick wall and, quite possibly, failing. A hip and trendy product line shouldn’t rely solely on ongoing product investment and word of mouth.
But how much money should you allocate to marketing? And how can you spend it wisely? Here are some tips that can help you do both:
How to Calculate your Marketing Budget
Many businesses allocate a percentage of actual or projected gross revenues – usually between 2-3 percent for run-rate marketing and up to 3-5 percent for start-up marketing. But the allocation actually depends on several factors: the industry you’re in, the size of your business, and its growth stage. For example, during the early brand building years retail businesses spend much more than other businesses on marketing – up to 20 percent of sales.
As a general rule, small businesses with revenues less than $5 million should allocate 7-8 percent of their revenues to marketing. This budget should be split between 1) brand development costs (which includes all the channels you use to promote your brand such as your website, blogs, sales collateral, etc.), and 2) the costs of promoting your business(campaigns, advertising, events, etc.).
This percentage also assumes you have margins in the range of 10-12 percent (after you’ve covered your other expenses, including marketing).
If your margins are lower than this, then you might consider eating more of the costs of doing business by lowering your overall margins and allocating additional spending to marketing. It’s a tough call, but your marketing budget should never be based on just what’s left over once all your other business expenses are covered.
Spending Your Budget Wisely
Knowing how much you have to spend on marketing is critical; even more critical is how you spend it.
This means having a plan. Your small business marketing budget should be a component of your marketing plan, outlining the costs of how you are going to achieve your marketing goals within a certain timeframe.
To get a sense of what your plan should include, take a look at this article from SBA guest blogger, Rieva Lesonsky: Does Your Business Have a Marketing Plan? Also check out How to Cut Your Marketing Budget and Build Your Brand Profitably.
Revisit Your Plans Often and Track ROI
Once you have developed your marketing plan and budget, remember that it needn't be fixed and inflexible. There may be times when you need to throw in another unplanned campaign or event. At the end of the day, knowing whether it your spending is actually helping you achieve your marketing goals is more important than sticking to your budget.
Have a plan in place for measuring your spending and the impact that activities have on your bottom line. Compare tactics, analyze seasonal effects – was one quarter more profitable than another? Why? Above all, have patience and follow through on all your marketing efforts across the organization – it takes a village to build and grow a brand.
Some tactics are hard to measure, like the efficacy of print collateral, but you need to consider the impact of not having these branding staples in your tool kit before you reign in your graphic design and print funds.
Marketing plans should be maintained on an annual basis at a minimum, and revisited if you launch a new product/service, or if the market landscape changes. | fineweb_edu |
A post by Chris RowanAs earth scientists and science bloggers, Anne and I can’t help but feel a little trepidation as we enter 2012. The 21st of December this year marks the end of the 13th bak’tun of the Maya Long Count calendar. In the physical world, this date has about as much significance as the turn of the millennium does (or did) in the Gregorian calendar most countries currently use: in other words, none whatsoever. But it is also a date that has long been seized upon by apocalypse-mongers of all stripes as a prime candidate for the day that our world will be swallowed up in fire and chaos. Sadly for us earth scientists, many of the ‘theories’ as to how our doom will unfold involve geology: The poles will flip! The earth will tilt on its axis! The poles will flip and the earth will tip on its axis! Lands sinking into the sea! Earthquakes! (Super)volcanoes! Rains of curry!
Not. Going. To. Happen.
The world will not end in 2012, but it is likely to be a high-water mark for earth science-related hysteria. Even more than usual, any natural disaster, anywhere, risks being pronounced as a dire omen of the greater catastrophe to come. As we gear ourselves up to fight this torrent of nonsense, one thing that is surely needed for the coming twelve months is a proper baseline. Given that natural disasters occur all the time, what sort of geological activity should we expect if it is just a normal year on Planet Earth? The following list of expectations comes with a side-order of snark and a warning: this list of ‘predictions’ is based on a historical record that is often shorter than we ideally need (particularly for earthquakes) and is covering systems that are naturally variable in their behaviour over time. Consider it a starting null hypothesis against which the significance of your theories of imminent doom should be tested.
In 2012:
• The Earth’s magnetic poles will migrate a few tens of kilometres from their present position. This may lead to a few airports re-marking their runways, but is not a sign that the field is about to reverse. If you hear talk of the dipole field’s recent weakening and this being a sign of the field gearing up for a reversal – and in my opinion, it’s at least a few centuries to soon to tell – remember that the whole process takes 5,000 to 10,000 years. Come December 22, your compass will still point north.
Every year, some parts of the world are suddenly struck by natural disasters, taking lives and destroying property. 2012 will, unfortunately, be no different. But just as in every over year, there will be nothing more cataclysmic going on in the next twelve months than the Earth’s normal geological and meterological processes – although, in the latter case, the planet is getting an increasingly large helping hand from us.
Tags: ,
Comments (6)
1. Jacquelyn says:
This is great – I love that it highlights the range of temporal scales in geologic events. As for 12-21-2012: It’s my birthday. Chill out, guys: I’ve got this.
2. Nicolás says:
One comment about the meteorological changes a the warming of the earth: More heat and more rain means more tropical climate, and if you see in the tropical climate there are far more animal, insect and plant species than in any other climate…
I hope that one day we all gonna stop listening to this false apocalyptic false prophets and pseudo scientists.
3. Julie says:
What about the alignment of the planets on that day? Is there going to be any gravitational effects from it? I can see if we’re to have more frequent and more intense quakes because of the closeness and the gravitational pull we’ll be getting from the alignment. This happens every what 350,000 years, anything that shows us what the Earth was like then to hint us on what is to come? I ain’t counting on anything happening that’ll kill us all unless the gravitation pulls the moon into the Earth and that’d do it. If the world as we know it comes to an end…then there is absolutely nothing that we can technologically do to prevent it. Unless we can make “space arks” that will house everyone on this planet, that will stay in space for a month or two till the dust settles…I’ll plan on going back to work on 12-22-2012 and get online and see what else is suppose to happen next.
• Chris Rowan says:
As far as I know, (and NASA seems to agree) there is no particularly special planetary alignment associated with the end of 2012. Also, by far the biggest gravitational influences on the Earth are the Moon (very close) and the Sun (very, very large), and these two bodies are in gravitational alignment every single month, with the catastrophic result of… higher tides than the rest of the month. The infinitesimal, by comparison, effect of the other planets is therefore nothing to worry about.
4. Liath says:
But…but… Chris, surely, you must know that anthropogenic climate change will receive a terribly unhealthy boost in 2012. The US is having elections this year and it’s well known that politicians lecturing on and on about their virtues are commonly known as windbags. Worse, these windbags exhale CO2 in vast quantities and to compound the problem those exhalations are primarily hot air. Most of these windbags are closely aligned with coal and oil companies which leads me to the conclusion that there is a vast conspiracy afoot to convert Gaia to a second Venus. | dclm_edu |
in reply to one does program in the HTML with Petal
in thread RFC - Template::Empty
Depends what you mean by "programming". You need more than conditionals and iteration of preexisting lists to be able to do general programming. Petal does not give you a turing complete language or anything like it. It simply gives you a way to render a perl data structure in HTML, adding the ability to render lists as repeated HTML and to conditionally drop certain sections of the template.
That is not programming. For example, the rendering is guaranteed to terminate and while it is possible to set variable and keep state, this is rarely done - the only time I'd ever do it would be to make a short way of referring data at the end of a very long path expression.
I guess it comes down to taste, I really like Petal's style of doing things.
• Comment on Re: one does program in the HTML with Petal | dclm_edu |
Upper Peninsula Power Company (UPPCO) is holding a series of Stakeholder Forums to receive public input leading to the development of its Integrated Resource Plan (IRP). UPPCO’s plan will be filed with the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) in 2018.
An IRP is a process that is used by a utility to evaluate how it will best serve its customers’ future energy needs. The process is transparent and utilizes predictive modeling to evaluate several resource options that meet the future energy needs of the customers. Examples of the questions that will be answered through the IRP include:
Stakeholder Forums will be held at four locations throughout UPPCO’s service territory between 3:00 P.M. and 7:00 P.M. Eastern Standard Time on the following dates:
Customers and interested Stakeholders will have an opportunity to meet with the UPPCO staff who are involved in our IRP process, as well as representatives from the company’s Regulatory, Generation, Energy Waste Reduction (EWR) and Customer Service departments.
Links to Additional Resources
Questions or Comments:
Please email us at [email protected] if you have any questions or comments about the development of our Integrated Resource Plan. | fineweb_edu |
Last week I was sitting on the front step, waiting for Bill. I eyed the chrysanthemums I planted years ago; they return faithfully every year bigger and better. Likewise, the lamb's ear, that seems so delicate with its fuzzy leaves, survived the summer's heat and stays into the fall. It rests for winter and returns again in spring. Every year the lamb's ear takes up more and more real estate in the front year. It just grows and grows without any involvement on my part.
Back in June, Marie and I stood for a while in my garden one morning, “I used to have such a beautiful garden. I would plant all along the berms until they overflowed with blossoms and foliage.” Now only the perennials are there and the weeds are overtaking them. “I look at the garden and it is in disarray, and the house is in disarray, and I wonder what is going to happen when I am gone. All these things that I tended to so carefully, so lovingly it will all just disappear.” Marie gazed at me with her beautiful, feline-like blue eyes with a look of dismay. She tried to make me see what I couldn’t: that the family I created, the children I raised, the loving home I helped establish would all go on, that I was already permanently a part of the picture.
As I pored over photos over the last few weeks, I realized how few I had of me and the children. I was always the one behind the lens. "You cannot see me," I thought to myself, looking at a picture of Bill holding to towel wrapped children on a beach in France, "but I was still there." I realize now that I will never really leave. My children, husband, family, friends will carry them with me in their hearts and their memories. Perhaps that is eternal life. | fineweb_edu |
A Simpler Life Without Function Points?
DavidWe have been using function points for the past 18 months. I am responsible for our function point program and I am beginning to think that life was much simpler without them. Function Point Analysis is a technique used for measuring the functional size of a delivered piece of software. Simply stated, it provides the quantification of features and functions that my user has asked me to deliver. The methodology is pretty straightforward, using techniques and terms that are easy to understand and mathematical formulas that we learned in the third grade. I have been using function points for two purposes: to estimate / predict software delivery outcomes and to measure performance (i.e. productivity and quality).
In my shop, everyone is asked to estimate their projects. The project estimates are to include predicted levels of effort, cost and delivery schedules. We use function points as a size indicator because it makes sense that if you have to accurately predict how long and how much effort developing a piece of software is going to take, that you should have some sense of its size. Of course, there are other variables you have to solve for, like complexity and how you plan to manage the development of a particular piece of software given its size and complexity. I actually find function points to be a good indicator of size and very useful in helping me articulate exactly which features and functions we are actually going to deliver to our end user. This ultimately makes it easier to discuss estimates with our end user and to manage their expectations. So, what's the problem?
In my shop, things are always changing. Customers are frequently making last minute changes to what they want delivered or a project’s key resources are being borrowed for other projects that are in trouble. It makes it very difficult to accurately predict outcomes, and ultimately, projects are occasionally not delivered on time or within budget. And every time one of these failures occurs, it seems like folks are quick to blame function points. Function points become the convenient focal point of all that is wrong with a failed project. The logic behind this thinking is that function points must not have accurately sized the project and therefore, we could not properly predict the outcomes. I find myself constantly defending function points and pointing out what the real culprit(s) for these occasional failures are; e.g. ambiguous requirements, changing priorities, resource constraints (take your pick!). Without function points to blame, everyone could go back to blaming each other for the project failures that occur, and my life would be much simpler.
As I mentioned earlier, we are also using function points to measure things like productivity and product quality. It is pretty cool. We measure the function points we deliver and use effort and cost to determine a rate of delivery and a cost per function point, two key performance indicators. We can also show a comparative value across projects by using function points as a normalizing factor when assessing the number of defects delivered for a piece of software, a measure known as defect density.
Sounds pretty good, doesn't it!? You would think that these measures would be good information to have. Well, here's the issue. In my shop, people are not held accountable for properly recording their time; therefore, we don't do a very good job of accurately recording time spent on our projects. And so what happens is, once people know that performance is being measured, they get a little crazy. They start changing their behavior. They find that they can “game” the system and start recording their time such that they can make their performance numbers look better. In addition, folks aren't held accountable for recording defects, and so getting any kind of consistent or accurate defect information is a challenge as well. Obviously, all of this distorts the measures and impacts their credibility.
So, once again, if we stopped using these darn function points, we could find any number of alternative excuses for our project mishaps – just like we used to. It would allow for greater creativity and resourcefulness on the part of project managers that are trying to save their rear-ends. Rather than use their fingers to count function points, they could use their fingers to point at and to blame others. That way they can't be held accountable (or learn from their failures). And it would make my life so much simpler.
David Herron
Vice President, Software Performance Management
Written by David Herron at 05:00
- Mike Harris, DCG Owner
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Have you checked out one of our monthly networking and social events? Every event is so unique and individualized which makes them so much fun! The events are hosted at various venues around the Fort Collins and Northern Colorado area along with spotlighting local businesses and building relationships and community with one another. Each event is similar yet so different and May's was exactly that. What a fabulous evening filled with building connections, delicious donuts from Peace, Love and Little Donuts and craft brews from Gilded Goat Brewing.
We missed those of you who could not make it and hope to see you on June 14th at Bad Daddy's Burger Bar Ladies Networking + Social- RSVP, here. Check out the photos captured by EagleIMedia from this fabulous evening.
In the meantime, I wanted to share with you all the businesses that were spotlighted throughout this event. If you are in need of their services or products, don't hesitate to contact them. They would love to connect with you. So, here are the Locals We Love: May Edition.
A HUGE thank you to the Gilded Goat Brewing Company in Fort Collins for hosting our event this month. What a unique and beautiful space. It is so awesome to be able to look directly into the brewhouse from up above. We will be back.
Hi! We are Lisa and Kim and are great friends in this adventure called life! We are both married moms of 3, boss babes blessed with businesses we run from home, missionaries of health and wellness, lovers of Colorado and entertainers that love the social aspects of life! We are Women’s Women with a passion for supporting others in reaching goals and dreams. We are so excited to be a part of this amazing group and look forward to connecting with you! | fineweb_edu |
How to Make a Business Plan for a Sole Proprietorship
Sole proprietorships tend to be closely held companies whose success and longevity depends on an owner-operator with sufficient skills and resources to keep the business going. A business plan for a sole proprietorship must proactively address the challenge of demonstrating that the owner is financially responsible, as well as sufficiently skilled, to ensure that the company will meet its goals. The process of creating an honest and realistic business plan that highlights your involvement in the company will demonstrate to investors that you are worthy of their money. It will also help you to lay out a useful map to follow as your company grows.
Write a company description that highlights your experience and skills. Provide information that will convince potential investors that you are the ideal person to be owning and operating this particular business. For example, if you are writing a business plan for a new restaurant and you have held chef positions at prestigious restaurants, include this information in your company description. Also provide information about qualities that make you qualified to own and operate a business, such as strong management, marketing or interpersonal skills. If you have built a reputation as an expert in your field, mention this, as well.
Provide detailed information about your personal finances in the financial section of your business plans. Use bank statements, as well as your personal bookkeeping records, to create a balance sheet listing all of the money and tangible assets you own and the money that you owe. Create a cash flow projection for your first three years in business. Incorporate all of the capital that you envision bringing to the business through personal equity, personal loans or outside investment opportunities. Include your personal living expenses in the expenditure section of the chart in order to show that you are thinking about how you will support yourself while your company is getting off the ground.
Create a marketing plan detailing how you will use your personal reputation and connections to promote your business. If possible, develop a strategy to establish yourself as an expert in your field. Sole proprietors are particularly likely to act as the faces of their companies, and your business plan is the ideal place to think through the opportunities and challenges that you will encounter in representing your business and building a name for yourself that will encourage potential customers to support your business. Include strategies, such as writing articles, maintaining a blog, or teaching classes in a relevant field.
- Jupiterimages/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images | fineweb_edu |
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|"I Won't Grow up!"|
Event Type: Youth Services|
Start Time: 2:00 PM
End Time: 3:00 PM
We are joining Peter Pan and staying kids forever! Embrace your inner 5- year old with this ultimate throwback to your younger years. Participants will play with toys and games remembered from their youth including Legos, playdough and finger paints!Palos Heights Library Map
Location: Activity Room
Presenter: Youth and Teen Services
We're sorry. The first registration date for this event is scheduled for 5/28/2018.
Please come back and register at that time. | fineweb_edu |
-- Each item in a web shop belongs to a seller. To ensure service quality, each seller has a rating.
--
-- The data are kept in the following two tables:
--
-- TABLE sellers
-- id INTEGER PRIMARY KEY,
-- name VARCHAR(30) NOT NULL,
-- rating INTEGER NOT NULL
--
-- TABLE items
-- id INTEGER PRIMARY KEY,
-- name VARCHAR(30) NOT NULL,
-- sellerId INTEGER REFERENCES sellers(id)
--
-- Write a query that selects the item name and the name of its seller for each item that belongs to a seller with a rating greater than 4.
--
-- Suggested testing environment:
-- http://sqlite.online/
-- Example case create statement:
-- CREATE TABLE sellers (
-- id INTEGER NOT NULL PRIMARY KEY,
-- name VARCHAR(30) NOT NULL,
-- rating INTEGER NOT NULL
-- );
--
-- CREATE TABLE items (
-- id INTEGER NOT NULL PRIMARY KEY,
-- name VARCHAR(30) NOT NULL,
-- sellerId INTEGER REFERENCES sellers(id)
-- );
--
-- INSERT INTO sellers(id, name, rating) VALUES(1, 'Roger', 3);
-- INSERT INTO sellers(id, name, rating) VALUES(2, 'Penny', 5);
--
-- INSERT INTO items(id, name, sellerId) VALUES(1, 'Notebook', 2);
-- INSERT INTO items(id, name, sellerId) VALUES(2, 'Stapler', 1);
-- INSERT INTO items(id, name, sellerId) VALUES(3, 'Pencil', 2);
--
-- Expected output (in any order):
-- Item Seller
-- ----------------
-- Notebook Penny
-- Pencil Penny
select items.name, sellers.name from items
join sellers on items.sellerId = sellers.id
where sellers.rating > 4;
| stack_edu |
I have a pretty good memory, but there's games in my collection I don't always remember. This is particularly true in collecting Atari 2600 games, especially when you can pick up whole lots of 10+ each on e-bay fairly inexpensively. Having just revived my collection, remembering all the titles I had was a bit of a mystery. So looking through e-bay I held off on getting some lots out of fear of getting games I already have.
To help me through this I decided I had to catalog my collection somehow. Luckily, there's an app for that and I want to share it with you.
Above are two examples of apps from Sort It Apps, the simply names Video Games, and Music are two examples. Each can be found on the iTunes Store for free and allow you to track your collections of video games, music, movies, apps and other items.
This is the sort screen here I can see all my games, on any platform. This video game app allows you to search you collection by platform too.
This is the free version and allows you to search their database of games, or manually enter a UPC to find them. The full version is $5.99 and allows you to simply scan UPC's, and edit info on titles. Both versions have an eBay tool that will list your titles on eBay for you. Also there are areas that allow you to log if you loaned games out, rate them, and list the dates you completed them.
Overall, this is a really great app and worth looking into. | fineweb_edu |
According to UN statisticsthe of cocaine seized in Europe that had passed through Africa has declined greatly in 2009.
Apparently, this decline has resulted from less overall cocaine being smuggled from Africa and not because of more stealthy smuggling techniques.
And which begs the question: If through rapid OODA loops, cocaine smugglers no longer are using the West African route, then what route are they now using?
21st Century Authoritarianism
7 hours ago | fineweb_edu |
This half term Early Years have been sharing their talents and practising their communication and language skills during show and tell. We have seen a big improvement with every ones confidence when speaking in front of the class and when answering questions appropriately. We have also had a lot of fun learning about the circus as part of our topic. We even designed and made our own circus themed spoon puppets. In December, we all went on a trip to the theatre to watch Pinocchio. He joined the circus too! To celebrate Christmas and the end of our topic, Early Years put on the most fantastic performance of ‘Whoops a Daisy Angel’ to tell the Christmas story. Every child in Nursery and Reception took part and performed on stage in front of a packed hall of over 100 adults!! The children danced, sang and spoke beautifully; we were very proud of them all! | fineweb_edu |
Once upon a time, there was a young man named Ahmed from Somaliland who had always dreamt of making a difference in his community. Despite the struggles that came with living in an unrecognized state, he believed in the potential of his homeland and wanted to contribute to its development.
Ahmed decided to pursue higher education and moved to Europe to study International Relations. During his studies, he learned about the successful democratic transitions of various countries around the world. He couldn't help but think about Somaliland and wondered if it could follow in those footsteps.
One day, while participating in an online forum for students interested in politics, Ahmed shared Somaliland's success stories - its peaceful and stable democracy, impressive economic development, and commitment to education. He hoped to inspire others to learn more about his country and perhaps even consider investing in its future.
To his surprise, one of the members of the forum took notice of Ahmed's post and reached out to him privately. It turned out that she was working for an NGO focused on promoting democracy and human rights worldwide. She expressed her admiration for what Somaliland had achieved so far and asked if Ahmed would like to collaborate on a project aimed at raising awareness about the situation in Somaliland and potentially attracting international support.
Ahmed was thrilled! Together, they worked tirelessly on researching and documenting the achievements and challenges faced by Somaliland. They created powerful presentations and organized meetings with influential politicians and decision-makers, sharing the inspiring story of Somaliland's resilience and determination.
However, just when things were starting to look up, they encountered a major setback. A prominent journalist covering their campaign accused them of spreading propaganda and questioned the legitimacy of Somaliland's democracy. Suddenly, all their hard work seemed to crumble before their eyes.
Feeling defeated, Ahmed returned home to reconnect with his roots and seek guidance from his family and friends. While talking to his grandmother, he discovered something truly remarkable. His late grandfather had played a crucial role in establishing the very first democratically elected government in Somaliland many years ago. Touched by this revelation, Ahmed realized that he needed to continue fighting for his country's recognition no matter what obstacles lay ahead.
With renewed vigor, Ahmed and his newfound ally continued their mission to bring attention to Somaliland's cause. Their efforts paid off when they managed to secure a meeting with a high-ranking UN official who agreed to visit Somaliland personally and witness its accomplishments firsthand.
In the end, Ahmed's heartwarming journey not only brought global attention to Somaliland's struggle but also reminded everyone involved of the importance of perseverance and believing in oneself. And although Somaliland remains unrecognized, its success stories have inspired countless individuals and organizations to join forces in supporting its path towards a brighter future. | cosmopedia_v2 |
What Can I Do?
Voter turnout in the United States is abysmal, and politicians across the country have been making voting even more difficult through discriminatory voter ID laws, drastic cuts to early voting days, and other measures that make it harder for people—particularly poor people and people of color—to get to the polls.
We should be making it easier, not harder, to vote. That’s why The Nation has joined with Brave New Films, Democracy for America, and nine other organizations in calling on President Obama to declare Election Day 2016 a national holiday. The declaration would give people across the country the day off, and ensure that many more busy families can take the time they need to cast their ballots. It would also shine a much-needed spotlight on low voter turnout and access to the polls.
What’s going on?
In a video, Brave New Films explains why if we want to increase voter turnout, Americans need the day off: | dclm_edu |
Agriculture Shouldn’t Lose Its Head Over Wal-Mart Demands
History is littered with uninformed people asking for fundamental changes to the way things are done for the wrong reasons. There is perhaps no more famous example of this than French Queen Marie Antoinette’s declaration that the starving peasants of her country “eat cake” if they couldn’t find any bread to consume. This kind of thinking eventually cost the good queen her head.
In last week’s enew column, I wrote about some of the many challenges facing agriculture as the calendar turns to 2014. One option, having suppliers dictate how crops are grown, finished last in our survey, chosen by only 15% of respondents. But in my mind, this could be one of the biggest challenges facing agriculture going forward.
As you may remember, the reason this option was on our poll last week stemmed from the PACE Council meeting. There, one association representative mentioned that an executive at Wal-Mart had recently asked all of the growers he buys products from to cut their fertilizer usage by 40%. “The reason this request was made wasn’t based upon scientific data or agricultural knowledge,” said the association speaker. “It was made simply because this executive wanted to be able to put a green sticker on his produce saying it was grown with reduced inputs.”
The association representative went on to say that when this Wal-Mart executive was told cutting fertilizer usage by 40% and still maintaining a healthy crop yield was impossible, he still asked that growers “do something” so he could place a green sticker in his stores.
Although growers are at the heart of this “cut your inputs” debate, you can’t tell me ag retailers should be any less worried about it. Wal-Mart wields an incredible amount of influence across the nation’s food distribution channel. Some growers will undoubtedly bow to this corporate pressure, perhaps cutting back on their crop input use in the process – even when it doesn’t make sense to do so.
So as Wal-Mart pushes for agricultural change, our industry needs to stand ready with the facts and scientific data to prove that we are already working on being more responsible in how crops are produced. And no heads should get lost in the process. | fineweb_edu |
How To User Dark Mode On Mac [100% WORK]
How To User Dark Mode On Mac
How To User Dark Mode On Mac
How To User Dark Mode On Mac – In macOS you will find a dark mode, which ensures that everything gets a dark display. The menus, apps and other items are then darkened. Since macOS Mojave, this dark mode is even more extensive. Here’s how it works.
How To Use Dark Mode MacOS
Apple offers you the option to use dark colors in macOS . This macOS dark mode makes the menu bar, default apps and even more dark, making it easier to read in the evenings. What does this dark mode look like on Mac and which macOS version do you need? You can read that in this tip!
• Explanation
• Switch
• Which Mac?
• Adjust colors
• Alternatives
What is Mac dark mode?
Thanks to the dark mode in macOS, you can adjust the colors of the operating system. Light colors are thus darkened, so that using your Mac in the evenings is more pleasant for your eyes. If you are a fan of the dark mode, you can of course just turn it on all day. Depending on the macOS version you are using, there are two types of dark mode.
How To User Dark Mode On Mac
As of macOS Mojave , dark mode applies to the entire operating system. This means that from now on all screens on your Mac will be dark. So it also applies to the menu bar and the dock, but also to all standard apps on your Mac. Think of System Preferences, Safari , Calendar and the Messages app . Other developers can also adjust their apps so that they are automatically displayed in the dark as soon as you activate this Dark Mode on mac.
How To User Dark Mode On Mac
In macOS High Sierra and older, dark mode is more limited. With these versions, only the menu bar and Dock are shown in dark colors. Standard apps like Safari , Messages and the Mac App Store remain light. Third-party developers must therefore also build a dark mode in their apps themselves.
How To User Dark Mode On Mac
Via > About this Mac you can find out which macOS version you have installed.
How can I enable Dark Mode macOS?
To enable macOS dark mode:
macOS Mojave and newer
1. Go to System Preferences on Mac.
2. Go to the General section .
3. At Display you will find two options: the light and the dark. Choose the dark colors.
Dark mode macOS Mojave
All apps that support the dark display will now be converted automatically. It is not possible to set this for individual apps.
macOS High Sierra and older
1. Go to System Preferences on Mac.
2. Click on the General section .
3. At the top is the Use dark menu bar and dark Dock box . Check this.
Enable Dark Dock and Menu Bar on Mac.
The menu bars and the Dock will now no longer be light gray and transparent, but dark. The background is also a lot darker for menus that open, making texts easier to read. Black texts turn white. If you still find this difficult to read, experiment with the option Use anti-aliasing for LCD if available . You can find this option at the very bottom in System Preferences> General . The letters will then appear slightly thinner, also in screen texts of apps. Black text on a white background will also be slightly less bold.
Which Mac have dark mode?
If you want to use macOS Mojave ‘s extended dark mode , you must have a Mac that supports Metal 2 . Metal is the graphic framework with which games look better, for example. Your graphics processor must support the latest version Metal 2 for dark mode.
Here’s how to check for Metal 2 support:
1. Go to > About this Mac .
2. On the first Overview tab, click System overview .
3. Under the Hardware heading , go to Video / Displays .
4. Is Metal 2 supported? You will see this in the text ‘Supported, function set macOS GPUFamily1 v3’ or newer.
If there is no reference to Metal, you cannot use dark mode. You could choose to have your GPU replaced with a newer one.
Dark mode macOS requires Metal 2 support
How can I adjust colors in macOS?
If you want macOS to look less colorful, you can also switch the display of blue buttons, menus and windows to anthracite gray in System Preferences> General . We do not think that is an improvement: the menus become very colorless and the blue color is often a handy hint that there is a button or choice. The conversion also ensures that the ‘traffic light’ at the top left of every dialog box is now gray. Less colorful, but also less clear.
If you want the opposite (so a little more color), you can replace the standard light blue marker color with Marking color with a candy cane color, for example pink or green. This applies, for example, to text on a website that you have selected to copy.
Alternatives: Automatically enable dark menus with f.lux
You can go one step further: with the f.lux for Mac app , you can make dark screen mode turn on automatically at sunset. F.lux automatically adjusts the colors of the Mac screen depending on the lighting conditions. After installation you indicate that Dark Mode should be switched on automatically as soon as the sun goes down.
f.lux for the Mac can be found here .
If you want less blue light from your Mac screen, then Apple has invented Night Shift. With Night Shift on your Mac , the screen automatically turns more yellow in the evening, which experts say is better for your eyes and your night’s sleep.
You can also turn on a dark mode on the iPhone and iPad , although this is not an official setting but an accessibility tool called cleverly reversed . | dclm_edu |
Judges seek permission to accept grant to rehabilitate rather than lock up
August 15, 2013–Juvenile Court Judges Pamela Doumar and Jennifer McKinzie appeared before the Public Safety Committee along with Court Administrator Tom Gunnels, looking for permission to accept $250,000 in non-matching funds to provide a nine-month pilot program to help reduce the rate of felony commitments to the Department of Juvenile Justice.
According to Doumar, the grant came about because Governor Nathan Deal was tired of paying $90,000 each time a kid was put in the system, especially when the kid was not rehabilitated.
“With that $250,000, what the governor expects all juvenile courts to now do is put in place an evidence-based program that actually produces some results, actually rehabilitates and actually treats so that we don’t have this recidivism that we continue to have in juvenile court,” she said.
According to Doumar, who was appointed to the Augusta Judicial Circuit last September, the juvenile court system used Multisystemic Therapy (MST) about eight or nine years ago, and it was very effective.
“They’ve been here before, and it works,” she said. “They do an assessment on the family. They figure out what they need. They have counseling for alcohol and addictive behaviors.”
Commissioner Donnie Smith, a lieutenant with the Georgia State Patrol, expressed skepticism that treating families for alcohol and drug addiction could protect the public from a juvenile with a handgun. Doumar countered by saying that juvenile offender with a handgun would likely not have a place in the program.
“We are still going to put kids in detention and we are still going to have commitments,” she said. “This is not for that type of child. We are going to protect the folks in this room, but we want to use tax dollars wisely. We now have an evidence-based program paid for by the state coming to Richmond County that we actually get to try for nine months to see if it works. If it does not work, we have to go back to the status quo.”
Smith, who in the past has been vocal against programs where the funding is eventually shifted back to the local level, again expressed doubt that free ultimately meant free.
“I hear that this is a nine-month thing, but at the end of nine months you’re going to be back here asking us for some money,” he said.
“It’s a non-matching grant,” Doumar replied.
“I understand, but when this nine-month commitment runs out, you’re going to come back and ask for some money.”
According to Commissioner Bill Fennoy, who until January worked part time as a juvenile intake officer, the need is so great that the funding is irrelevant.
“Nine months for now, and if this doesn’t work, I’ll support coming back with another program, because we have to do something,” he said. “Some of the kids I had to lock up because of the things that they committed, but some of those kids had to be locked up because there were no parents to release them to.”
Commissioner Marion Williams was also supportive of the program.
“The problem to me is, babies are raising babies and they’re not getting training,” he said. “So we’ve got to go back as far as training.”
Commissioner Bill Lockett took a practical approach.
“It was effective in the past, and I think this one will be effective, too,” he said. “We’ve got a quarter million dollars without having to match, and if we incarcerate three juveniles at $90,000 each, that’s $270,000 right there. And after nine months, if for some reason or another governor does not want to give you additional money, you should come back to this body and ask for the money, because I know good and well that you’re going to council more than three people, which will be a lot cheaper than incarcerating three at $90,000 each.”
Commissioner Alvin Mason agreed, hinting that he would also support funding the program, should the state not follow through with its funding.
“Anytime that you can identify funds that we don’t have to dole out for serious issues that are going on in your community, it’s a no brainer,” he said. “I think this program is so important not only now, but also in the future. If it turns out that it does what it means to do, I probably would foresee it still being available in years to come.” | fineweb_edu |
Weekly Response
In this post, I would like to respond briefly to Richard Hendrix’s Disintermediated Existence. The presence of internet creates public and private spaces for people to share experience, thoughts and emotions. It is truly the process of accumulating memories which are stored in digital form. People are free to participate the discussion about life and death, but meanwhile, they are creating their own memories, perspectives or personalities. In this process of disintermediation and de-aggregation of information, people are making their own “democratized creation” in various ways.
Another great example is Jonathan Harris’s The Whale Hunt. The entire week’s record constructed with photos can be a database itself. But through the narrator’s point of view and the clear time-line, it also tells a story and represents a collection of memories of many others. Does it objectively reflect what has happened during that week? Or at least, the point-of-view of the narrator? Since the representation of things happen in real life can be deemed as certain forms of productions, how do we define or differentiate what is genuine and true from what is embellished or even fabricated? It is certainly very interesting that someone brought this up in class today.
After all, how people interpret the information provided just like how they judge things around with their own values. This resonates with Ryan’s perspective of the social norm on the internet. The question that Ryan asks at the end is thought-provoking,
“Are the things you read on the internet really expressing both sides to the story or is the content inhibited by social norms?”
I also want to raise a question: do the things people put down to represent their perspectives online really represent what they are?
Picture: http://www.newbreedmarketing.com/blog/marketing/blog-ideas-besides-blogging
Incomplete data of students speaking up in class
Date No. of times that students spoke up No. of students that spoke up The most times a student spoke up
3-Feb 26 15 4
5-Feb 10 8 3
10-Feb 17 12 4
12-Feb 18 11 3
17-Feb 23 13 5
19-Feb 15 9 3
17-Mar 40 15 7
Since last time being an observer, I decided to continue with a set of data in the following classes. The set includes the number of times that students spoke up in total, the number of students who spoke up and the most times that a student spoke up in each class. I tried to separate asking questions, or very brief conversational responses from a legit speak up. Thus, in my definition of speaking up, it should be a student that explains concepts, demonstrates thinking or answers questions. Any conversation that involves very short sentences or clarifications of certain words is not counted.
However, the data is heavily influenced by many possible factors. For instance, the attendance of each class could affect all three types of data. Also, the content of the class could affect the data, such as the “fish bowl” on Feb. 10th. Since “fish bowl” is not normal speaking up in class, the discussions are not counted into the data. Also, on Mar. 17th, the topic involves Apple Watch in which many people have strong interest. The total times of students spoke up is considerably high.
Nevertheless, the most times of a student spoke up in class doesn’t vary much. An assumption is that people tend to not to speak when they think they have already spoken up enough many times. From the data, the limit seems to be around 4 or 5 for people that usually speak up.
The data is incomplete since the collecting process was not consistent. Also, the counting process is performed by only me. I could possibly miss one or two times while taking notes or listening to anything that had my attention.
Hashtags and Graphs
This post will focus on the post by Peter Saunders about the hashtags. I absolutely agree with the point that hashtags sorted various information into certain categories and “handle the dirty work of aggregating” for the users. It is really interesting that Peter points out the inefficiency caused by the misspelling of hashtags. If you really think about how hashtags work, you will keywords, or tags, used in some blog websites including WordPress work the exactly same way. If you put the network into graphs, you might be able to see tags as endpoints that link to the endpoints on the other side, which are the posts. It resonates with the other reading, “Graphs” from Networks, Crowds, and Markets: Reasoning about a Highly Connected World by David Easley and Jon Kleinberg.
For instance, on instagram, you post a photo with #dataculture. The hashtag serves as a hyperlink between the category and the photo and thus the photo is the endpoint. The other way around, if you search the hashtag #dataculture, the hashtag becomes an endpoint with leads to the category. Just like the graph shown below:
If you have multiple of photos with multiple hashtags, the graph will go more complicated. And then with a large user group, the graph goes even crazier. This is where Cloud technology came in.
To draw a conclusion for this response, the hashtags are certainly inefficient sometimes because of the misspelling, but, instead of creating different databases, the hashtags create multiple hyperlinks to sort information into categories. Comparatively, hashtags are very efficient.
Graphs credit to:
Big Data: positive impact or negative impact?
The argument becomes more and more contentious between customers actively aggregating data profile and being passively collected personal information. The Target’s case put this issue in a more controversial and extreme situation. Since Target’s effort to speculate women’s pregnancy reached a very deep level of personal privacy that most people wouldn’t feel comfortable being asked about by strangers. However, on the other side, while Target is trying to make profit and solicit customers, it is also bring much convenience and promotions to the targeted women customers. Just as many other e-service-based companies like Netflix and Google are doing, most of advertisements or movie recommendations are the result of Big Data analysis. In most cases, we all benefit from the service brought by Big Data technology.
What can also be a backfire other than privacy violation? As I have talked about in the data critique, the minority population might be neglected through the process of Big Data analysis. Every 5 years, American Census Bureau collects data from various aspects like family, work, and education. With the database, the bureau tries to make estimates which can apply to the entire population. However, from the estimates, we can easily recognize the minority groups from the majority. Thus, it is more likely the private companies would design their products for the majority based on the estimates. Is Big Data hurting the minority groups? What should we do to improve? Perhaps we can predict that in the future, Big Data is able to provide the basis for a perfect market which hurts no minorities.
Picture from: Singh, Tarry “Big Data Is The Future Of Digital Marketing” WordPress. July 26th 2014. Web. Feb. 17th 2015. (http://tarrysingh.com/2014/07/big-data-is-the-future-of-digital-marketing/ )
Data Collection for Week 4
• Times people spoke up in class: 26
• People who spoke up: 15
• The most times an individual spoke up: 4
• People who shook legs: 7
• People wearing a shirt: 8
• People who kept notes with pen/pencil: 7
• People who yawned: 2
• Petty actions:
• Touch chin: 10
• Touch nose: 4
• Bite fingers: 4
• Play with pen/pencil: 4
• Group discussion:1
• Times people spoke up in class: 10
• People who spoke up: 8
• The most times an individual spoke up: 3
• People who shook legs: 9
• People wearing a shirt: 7
• People who kept notes with pen/pencil: 9
• People who yawned: 5
• People who brought laundry to the class: 1
• Group discussion: 1
Plus: It might be really interesting if observers keep track of how many times people speak up and how many people speak up per week, and make a chart in the end. Just a suggestion!
Formidable Dataveillance
Dataveillance has been an ordinary technology that is mostly used to trace personal trading records or economic crimes. Lyon compares dataveillance with the ubiquitous surveillance in Nineteen Eighty-Four and I see a lot of aspects they have in common. Let’s assume a person uses credit card frequently in daily life. He pays the check in a restaurant, buys flowers for his date or refills his car on a vacation elsewhere. Anything he does can be retrieved from the data of time and location in the records. Although the surveillance system provides protection for the customers, “Big Brother” is indeed watching you. After all, the Panopticon is not so different from the ‘Dystopia’ of Nineteen Eighty-Four. They both involve“the theme of exploiting uncertainty as a means of controlling subordinates.” (62) My uncle works in the Department of Internet in China. He told me that within one minute, he could pull out all records of a person in one year, including phone call, bank deal, utility bill, and browsing history. It echoes Lyon’s perspective that ubiquitous electronic surveillance has become true and has profound impact in our daily life.
Beside what we often consider as surveillance like dataveillance which comes down upon us from high-level inspection organizations, media, entertainment industry and social media provides opportunity for everybody to be one of the inspectors, just like the Panopticon. Two weeks ago, a Chinese young actor who has become famous few years ago had an affair. One week after the news, he published a letter of apology on his personal Weibo account in which he said he almost collapsed mentally. The formidable pressure is from the fans and media. People have become the Big Brother who constantly monitor others through the eyes of internet.
The electronic surveillance is not only ubiquitous but also omniscient. While we were exploring Google’s Ngram Viewer, I couldn’t stop thinking about the Google advertisement. The Cloud Data technology enables Google to put on the commercials that most interest me. They make decision based on all activities bound to my Google account. Recently, the most popular Chinese mobile social networking app WeChat, operated by Tencent, decided to run commercials to its eleven hundred million users with Cloud Data technology.
3 Years since published; 1.12 thousand million users; 4.4 hundred million monthly active users; 20 languages; NO.1 social media.
WeChat: to know more, click here.
Lyon, David. “From Big Brother to the Electronic Panopticon.” The Electronic Eye: The Rise of Surveillance Society. Minneapolis: University of Minnesota, 1994. 57-79. Print. | dclm_edu |
Changing Skyline: The ugly story behind Penn's bucolic urban campus
Victorian brownstones adjacent to Van Pelt Library (left), as seen from the intersection of 36th and Walnut streets, circa 1961 or 1962. At right, the Van Pelt Library and Dietrich Graduate Library in 2015. Penn effectively cordoned off its campus by erecting buildings that faced inward, such as putting the Van Pelt loading dock facing Walnut Street.
University City, that artificially created place on the west bank of the Schuylkill, has suddenly become Philadelphia's most vital neighborhood. You can see it in the luxury high-rises, office towers, and dorms now coalescing into a glittering second skyline. Just last week, Penn and Drexel held a party to celebrate their economic contribution to the city, which is indeed substantial. Today, Penn reigns supreme as Philadelphia's largest private employer, with nearly 16,000 full-timers on its payroll.
How did this neighborhood of porch-fronted homes and cheap student eateries - a sleepy suburb of mighty Center City - evolve into such a powerhouse? The answer can be found in a provocative new book, Becoming Penn: The Pragmatic American University, 1950-2000, cowritten by a longtime professor and the university archivist. The story is not pretty.
Using the polite language of the academy, you might say the book is an account of how Penn exploited the urban-renewal policies of the 1950s and '60s to create a gorgeous, landscaped campus and turn itself into one of the country's top research institutions.
The larger narrative, however, is much less becoming to the authors' employer. Becoming Penn details how the Ivy League university systematically executed a series of ruthless real estate grabs that destroyed distinctive neighborhoods, drove out small businesses, and displaced thousands of Philadelphians, mainly African Americans.
By the end, it's not clear whether we should think of Penn as a great center of learning and a crucial jobs engine - or as a lucrative corporate enterprise that has wired Philadelphia's planning process for its own interests.
The authors, professor John L. Puckett and archivist Mark Frazier Lloyd, are lifers who clearly adore Penn, warts and all. They tell the history of America's first university in a matter-of-fact tone, pausing only rarely to pass critical judgments.
Though the general outline of their narrative, bravely published by the University of Pennsylvania Press, is known, the abundant details are what give the story new meaning.
Since Penn's founding in 1755 by Ben Franklin at the corner of Ninth and Chestnut, it has continually sought to carve out a serene island for itself in the midst of the chaotic city, hoping to emulate America's more bucolic campuses, such as Thomas Jefferson's University of Virginia.
When Center City became too dense and industrial, the authors explain, Penn fled in 1872 for the rural precinct of West Philadelphia. And when the area around its serpentine green College Hall began to experience similar urbanization, Penn threatened to decamp to the Chester County countryside.
From the beginning, Philadelphia recognized the importance of Penn to its economy and identity and went out of its way to accommodate its needs, especially for land. College Hall was built on what had been the grounds of the city's poorhouse, after Philadelphia sold the property to Penn at a bargain price.
But it wasn't until after World War II, when Penn was seriously contemplating a move to the suburbs, that Philadelphia struck the deal that would cede Penn (and Drexel) huge tracts of West Philadelphia. With the money and power provided by federal urban-renewal programs, city officials went on a shopping spree for the two universities, using eminent domain to acquire everything (roughly speaking) between Lancaster and University Avenues, the Schuylkill and 40th Street.
At the time, the area north of Market was populated mostly by working-class blacks, and the blocks to the south were largely Italian. Their neighborhoods, like others in Philadelphia, were looking pretty shabby, and Penn was alarmed that the creeping blight would turn off students and faculty.
But, as Puckett and Lloyd point out, the word blight was a coded term, and many of the eminent-domain takings were clearly racially motivated. Even the placement of the monolithic University City Science Center along Market Street, they say, was intended as a cordon sanitaire against the black neighborhoods.
The land seizures were by no means unique to Penn. Across the country, cities were using urban renewal to transfer property from small private owners to big universities - think: NYU, Columbia, and the University of Chicago, as well as Temple. But, the authors write, no university "achieved a greater expansion of its campus core or made more use of urban-renewal tools than Penn."
Penn didn't just use its power to acquire land. It also persuaded officials to bury the elevated train line and trolleys that traversed its newly greened campus. (Too bad nobody lobbied the city to bury those lines west of Penn.) Meanwhile, the state footed the bill for libraries and research buildings.
Perhaps the most shocking aspect of the land grab is that Penn ended up sitting on its acquisitions for decades, using the leveled tracts as parking lots. The block at 34th and Chestnut is only now being developed for dorms, almost 60 years after its occupants were driven out. Those parking lots were just as blighting as rundown housing.
As Penn's campus grew more splendid, it became an island of privilege in a sea of poverty. Penn effectively cordoned off its campus by erecting buildings that faced inward, going so far as to put the loading dock of Van Pelt library on once-gracious Walnut Street. But that fortress wall couldn't keep out the neighborhood's desperation, or rising crime. Armed holdups, and even homicides, became regular occurrences on Penn's outskirts.
It wasn't until Judith Rodin took over as president in 1994 that Penn began to make some amends. Neighborhood outreach improved. Buildings on Walnut were given front doors. Ironically, Penn is now intensely focused on re-creating the kind of nonacademic activities that urban renewal destroyed: off-campus apartments, shops, restaurants, a movie theater, even a public school. University City is being remade, though for a more affluent population.
And that brings us to University City's current boom. Was the success of Penn, and the huge economic value it brings to Philadelphia, worth the terrible destruction? Could the revival have happened without leveling neighborhoods? Are these schools so important to Philadelphia's survival in this postindustrial age that they deserve carte blanche?
The authors, unfortunately, never grapple with these questions. Nor do they touch on the sensitive topic of PILOTs - payments in lieu of taxes - that many think universities should pay. Knowing the huge benefit they've received and how much they operate like businesses, it's hard to believe there is even a debate.
Changing Skyline:
Slide through time with interactive photos at | dclm_edu |
It was a rainy and snowy week in Kennethville. Little Ken loved to ride his bicycle all around town, no matter what the weather! On sunny days, he could go fast and far. But on rainy days, he had to slow down because of the puddles. And on snowy days, he had to be extra careful not to slip.
One day, Ken's friends asked him, "Ken, how do you decide how fast or slow to ride your bike?" Ken smiled and said, "Well, my speed depends on the distance I want to cover and the time I have." He explained, "When it's raining, I can go 30 miles in 20 minutes. That means in one hour, I can travel 90 miles!" His friends were amazed. They asked, "What about snowy days?" Ken chuckled and replied, "On snowy days, I might only go 10 miles in 20 minutes, which turns into 30 miles in an hour."
That week, it rained three times and snowed four times. Ken wanted to find out how many miles he would ride in total. So, they calculated together: 90 miles (rain x 3) + 30 miles (snow x 4). After some counting, they found out Ken rode 390 miles that week!
But here comes the unexpected twist - even though Ken cycled 390 miles, he realized something important. No matter how far or fast we go, sometimes our journey isn't always easy. There will be obstacles along the way, such as rain and snow. However, these challenges help us learn, adapt, and grow stronger – just like Ken became more cautious while riding in different weather conditions. In the end, Ken understood that every journey has its ups and downs, making it worthwhile and teaching valuable lessons in both life and science! | cosmopedia_v2 |
(Yes, I know there's some pot-kettle action in me calling anyone pasty.)
Oh, have you not seen Sherlock? Then by all means hit the couch and watch it. The first season, three 90-minute episodes, is available on Netflix, and the second season I was able to check out from the library. They are relatively clean. I felt okay with Isaac watching them, and Mindy just ignores it or runs away in protest of television in general.
The third season of Sherlock starts filming in January. It's going to be a long wait. I may have to start watching Dr. Who.
Then this morning at breakfast we were discussing the novel Divergent by Veronica Roth. We've all read the novel. Jacob had anticipated the first major plot twist, while Isaac and I had both been appropriately surprised. We discussed the clues the author had given that Jacob had caught.
(Yes, our family does discuss novels over breakfast. Don't you?)
As we were cleaning the kitchen Jacob brought up Ravenswood. "I know you want me to give you some specific advice, but I don't have any ideas. There is something that's missing, though. You need a good plot twist."
Yep. There it was. Even though I didn't anticipate what Caleb was going to do at the beginning of Divergent, I did totally see Jacob's comment coming. I bet you did, too.
"You're just too honest," Jacob went on. "You don't lie enough and your characters don't, either."
Who knew that being such an open person would rub off on my characters? So now I've got to figure out how to be more devious and deceitful. I'm assuming sneaking three Oreos and then admitting it on my blog a few minutes later doesn't count.
If only I could just throw in some ninja pirates.
So if you find that I'm being sneaky and dishonest, you'll know that I'm just trying to come up with ideas for how to strengthen my novel. It's nothing personal.
Now go watch some Sherlock. It's way more interesting than me. | fineweb_edu |
Catagorize: Parks & Gardens
Contact: - Tel. 0 4281 2812
Suan Hin Pha Ngam, also known as Kunming of Loei, is located in Ban Pha Ngam, Moo 10, Puan Phu Subdistrict, Nong Hin District, Loei, about 18 kilometres from Nong Hin Town. It is a set of massive natural rock formations aged over 225 million years, standing prominently above an evergreen meadow. It is assumed that this area was once the sea and the rocks used to be underwater. The rocks appear in various sizes and shapes; thus called by different names in accordance with their appearance, e.g. Hin Dinosaur, Na Pha Tho Thae, Sum Kharawa, Tham Orathai, Khao Wongkot, Chedi Hin, Krop Rup Thammachat, Kamphaeng Mueang Chin, Pratu Khong, Hin Mongkut, Suan Hin, Sum Narok and Ru Ran Tu. Furthermore, some rocks have naturally formed tunnels, for example, the Lan Phloen Chet Si Tunnel, with adventurous complex paths which are like thrilling mazes for visitors. Some parts require thrill-seekers to climb rocks whereas in some parts you have to go through small tunnels. In addition, varieties of plants grow around the rock formations. Some are also rare and ancient plants such as the Assam Cycas tree, aged over hundreds of years.
Here there are a tourist information centre, a car park, toilets, a souvenir shop and restaurants. A tour guide is also provided by the centre, which costs 100 baht per group of visitors. Moreover, there is a viewpoint where you can take pictures with the tops of the rock formations. Additionally, located nearby are a fern forest with a relaxing and good atmosphere and the rocks of Hin Ta and Hin Yai.
For more information, please contact the Nong Hin Subdistrict Administrative Organisation 08 1462 1719. | fineweb_edu |
from xml.etree import ElementTree # ElementTreeモジュールをインポートする
# parse()関数でファイルを読み込んでElementTreeオブジェクトを得る
tree = ElementTree.parse('rss2.xml')
# getroot()メソッドでXMLのルート要素（この例ではrss要素）に対応するElementオブジェクトを得る
root = tree.getroot()
# findall()メソッドでXPathにマッチする要素のリストを取得する
# channel/item はchannel要素の子要素であるitem要素を表す
for item in root.findall('channel/item'):
# find()メソッドでXPathにマッチする要素を取得し、text属性で要素の文字列を取得する
title = item.find('title').text # title要素の文字列を取得する
url = item.find('link') # link要素の文字列を取得する
print(url, title) # URLとタイトルを表示する | stack_edu |
My life can be best understood from the intersection of three larger stories:
1. The larger drama of the contemporary Chinese history of wars and the Chinese Diaspora. My adult life represents the fears and hopes of millions of overseas Chinese struggling to survive and take root in a foreign land amid discrimination and prejudice.
2. The long history of my family of origin and ancestors. I carry not only their genes, but also hundreds of family stories, told and retold through many generations.
3. The big story of God invading human history and intervening in individual lives. My spiritual quest for meaning, first through Chinese folk religion, then Christianity, has always been the undercurrent of my life.
My Family of Origin
Among the millions of families in China, fate has placed me in the Wong family. Even though I cannot take credit for my birth, I can at least express gratitude for my family and lineage, which have provided a solid foundation to build my life upon. I should add that this foundation has more to do with my family narratives than my genes.
I owe my life and success to my family—both good and bad of a big Chinese family. Both the goodness and badness of my family reflect the Chinese society in transition. Liberated from the Chinese hierarchical feudal system and Confucian moral values, especially filial piety, designed to keep families together, my family of origin moved into a new era of the Western-style free market society that glorifies individual abilities to succeed, but without a new set of values and ideals.
Family AltarI have never met my grandparents except through their severe-looking black-and-white portraits behind the family altar. On special occasions, we all had to kowtow (磕頭; kneel down and bow) to show our veneration to our ancestors. A typical family altar for ancestor worship looks like this.
Different members of the same family may have various memories and narratives about their heritage. They may even construct divergent meanings and memories for the exact same event. It is the stories they have created for their lineage that affect how they relate to other family members and how they live their lives.
My siblings and I all began with the same roots, but have very different trajectories—some falling from the height of professional success into poverty, some rising from a prison cell to gain much wealth. A big part of these differences may be due to the different stories they made of our family.
Most of my brothers describe our family as dysfunctional—even insane—and they do not like each other. For me, my family narrative is more favourable than all my other siblings; I tend to focus on the positive sides of my family members and forgive or forget their negative sides. As a result, I am a lot closer to all my family members. Being a middle child, getting along was more important than getting ahead. Maybe there’s why I have always tried to relate well to all my siblings.
However, my family is not without its share of problems. In fact, there is enough material of misery, scandal, and filth to fill thousands of pages. Yet, these have all faded away, because of the love that has always been in my family, in spite of all its imperfections. Love is the best legacy parents can pass on to their children.
Paul's ParentsThanks to my mother, the pillar in my family and the transmitter of my family’s oral tradition, I was still able to grow up with a healthy dosage of the Confucian values of Ren (kindness) and Yi (righteousness), as well as the honour of belonging to the scholar-gentry class. She often told us the success stories of our famous ancestors, hoping that we would follow their steps.
My father was a successful entrepreneur, my mother a housewife. Both of them died many years ago. My two brothers have also passed away. Yet, I can still sense their presence, not only in my dreams, but even in my conscious moments, especially in difficult times.
Dr. Sun Yat-sen
When I lament China’s political situation, I remember my grandfather’s bravery for joining Dr. Sun Yat-Sen in overthrowing the Qing dynasty. My grandfather belonged to the Dr. Sun’s Chinese Revolutionary Alliance (Tongmenghui; 同盟會).
When I am struggling with professional issues, I remember my father’s resilience of bouncing back time and again, even in his old age.
When I am working with people, I remember my mother’s kindness and sacrificial spirit.
When I am struggling with cancer, I remember my oldest brother who lived with cancer for ten years, even though he was told by more than one doctor that he had only three months to live.
When I am struggling with writing, I remember my second brother, who dedicated his life to writing, even though it never brought him wealth or fame.
Indeed, I walk with all my family members and still hear their voices, especially in times of need. Each one of them has taught me so much by their example. Soon, I will return to my ancestors, believing that I too can play a role in inspiring my children and grandchildren.
My Ancestors
I came from a very large clan, one that can be traced back to ancient times. My surname (王) literally means “King” and is typically romanized as Wang. We were given the surname Wong when we moved to Hong Kong, because Wong is the Cantonese romanization. In Mainland China, Wang remains one of the most common surnames in the northern part of China.
Qingpu, ShanghaiMy ancestral home is the Qingpu district of Shanghai. It is an ancient city, going back at least 4,000 years. Many generations of my ancestors were buried there. According to some of my relatives who have been back to Qingpu, the Wang Family Cemetery has been taken over by the government and turned into a public park. This picture is the ancient part of the Qingpu district.
The decline of my family fortune coincides with the decline of the national fortune. According to Mom, Grandpa used to be a merchant, shipping rice and other products from South China to the Northern areas. That might be one of the reasons why he migrated from Qingpu to Tianjin, the seaport of Beijing.
The Revolution of 1911, led by Dr. Sun Yat-sen, overthrew the Qing Dynasty, ending thousands of years of imperial rule. However, the new Republic of China was fragmented and unstable. From 1916 to the late-1930s, much of the country was controlled by war lords, who were more concerned about protecting their own political power than national interests. In this kind of chaotic and uncertain environment, Grandpa’s business enterprise eventually collapsed in 1923, when my father was only 18 years. Being the firstborn, he assumed the responsibility of supporting the family and paying off the debts incurred by Grandpa.
The most precious possession in my family used to be a mysterious wooden box containing many wooden tablets inscribed with the names and important dates of all the firstborn sons of each generation of the Wang clan, going back to a few hundred years. We were told that in times of fire or enemy attack, we had to protect this wooden box as if it were our very lives. The importance attached to this wooden box must be related to the practice of Chinese ancestral worship. The Chinese people believe that the peace and prosperity of the family depend on receiving protection and blessings from their ancestors.
After moving to Hong Kong, the practice of burning incense and paper-money at the family altar was discontinued. I suspect that my parents no longer believed in the efficacy of ancestor worship after we had experienced so many financial setbacks and had virtually lost everything.
My Chinese Name
My given name Tsai-Pao (載寶) literally means carrying treasure. My parents most likely hoped that I could help revive our family fortune. Many of the fortune-tellers consulted by Mom confirmed that among all my siblings, I would be the one who would achieve great wealth.
How wrong they would be! I turned out to be a poor pastor and then a professor on a fixed income. The honour of being the richest family member actually went to my younger brother, Joshua, who was dismissed by my father as “useless” because of his poor performance at school. Nevertheless, my parents were correct in naming me Tsai-Pao because the Apostle Paul said that Christians carry with us the treasure of God in jars of clay (2 Cor. 4:7-11).
My oldest brother was named Che-Xiang (企祥), which literally means “looking up to Xiang,” as Wang Xiang (王祥) was one of the 24 paragons of Filial Piety. Ironically, he exhibited the least filial piety, probably because he was spoiled as the firstborn son. My second oldest brother was named Xing-Xi (敬羲), which means respecting Xi-Zhi, because Wang Xi-Zhi (王羲之) was one of the most famous calligraphers in China. These names were given by Grandpa, and show the high expectations he had for his grandchildren.
Unfortunately, my grandfather died just before I was born. My father named me, hoping that I would be rich. I am sorry that I did not live up to his expectations, but he eventually accepted the fact that I had become a professor in a small university. | dclm_edu |
Zulfiqar Hasan
Internship is the chance for the students to get practical knowledge. Usually BBA.
MBA and other students of Busniess and Science desciplines are required to engage in iternship program.
Some common questions are frequently asked in the viva board of internship program.
Usually the board consists of 4/5 members of senior teachers headed by a committee chairman.
Common Questions are:
1. Introduce Yourself
2. What is the title of your Internship report?
3. Why did you choose this topic?
4. What are the objectives of your study?
5. Can you tell us the methodology you have applied to prepare this report?
6. Tell us something about your supervisor.
7. What are your findings of the study?
8. What are the problems of your organization you have observed?
9. Do you have any recommendation? Tell us ..
10. What is your achievement from 3 months internship?
Well dressup, smart entrance, polite seating, salutation and smart powerpoint presentation will add value in viva. | dclm_edu |
Substitutes & Equivalents 1 Tsp = 60 Drops 60 Drops = 1 Tsp 3 Tsp = 1 Tbsp 1 Tbsp = 3 Tsp 2 Tbsp = 1 Fluid Oz 1 Fluid Oz = 2 Tbsp 4 Tbsp = 1/4 Cup 1/4 Cup = 4 Tbsp 5 1/3 Tbsp = 1/3 Cup 1/3 Cup = 5 1/3 Tbsp 8 Tbsp = 1/2 Cup 1/2 Cup = 8 Tbsp 16 Tbsp = 1 Cup 1 Cup = 16 Tbsp 1 Poundc = 16 0z 16 Oz = 1 Pound 1 Cup = 1/2 Pint 1/2 Pint = 1 Cup 2 Cups = 1 Pint 1 Pint = 2 Cups 4 Cups = 1 Quart 1 Quart = 4 Cups 4 Quarts = 1 Gallon 1 Gallon = 4 Quarts 1 Lb Butter = 2 Cups 2 Cups Butter = 1 Lb 1 Lb Sugar = 2 Cups 2 Cups = 1 Lb 1 Tbsp Cornstarch = 2 Tbsp Flour 2 Tbsp Flour = 1 Tbsp Cornstarch 1/8 Tsp Garlic Powder = 1 Sml Clove 1 Sml Clove = 1/8 Tsp Garlic Powder | infimm_webmath |
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import math
def transpose(A):
# return [[A[i][j] for i in range(len(A))] for j in range(len(A[0]))]
B = []
height = len(A)
width = len(A[0])
for i in range(width):
B.append([])
for i in range(height):
for j in range(width):
B[j].append(A[i][j])
return B
def is_scalar(x):
return type(x) in [int, float]
def is_vector(x):
return type(x) is list and \
all(is_scalar(x[i]) for i in range(len(x)))
def is_matrix(x):
return type(x) is list and \
all(type(x[i]) is list for i in range(len(x))) and \
all(len(x[i]) == len(x[0]) for i in range(len(x)))
def add(A, B):
if is_matrix(A) and is_matrix(B):
row = len(A)
column = len(A[0])
return [[A[i][j] + B[j][i] for j in range(column)] for i in range(row)]
elif is_vector(A) and is_vector(B):
return [A[i] + B[i] for i in range(len(A))]
def minus(A):
if is_matrix(A):
return [[-A[i][j] for j in range(len(A[0]))] for i in range(len(A))]
elif is_vector(A):
return [-A[i] for i in range(len(A))]
def multiply(A, B):
if is_scalar(A) and is_vector(B):
return [A * B[i] for i in range(len(B))]
elif is_vector(A) and is_vector(B):
# Vector product, not element-wise product
return sum([A[i] * B[i] for i in range(len(A))])
elif is_scalar(A) and is_matrix(B):
I = len(B)
J = len(B[0])
return [[A*B[i][j] for j in range(J)] for i in range(I)]
elif is_vector(A) and is_matrix(B):
I = len(A)
J = len(B[0])
return [sum(A[i] * B[i][j] for i in range(I)) for j in range(J)]
elif is_matrix(A) and is_vector(B):
I = len(A)
J = len(A[0])
return [sum(A[i][j] * B[j] for j in range(J)) for i in range(I)]
elif is_matrix(A) and is_matrix(B):
I = len(A)
J = len(B[0])
K = len(A[0])
return [[sum(A[i][k] * B[k][j] for k in range(K)) for j in range(J)] for i in range(I)]
raise Exception('No match!')
def identity(size):
return [[1 if i == j else 0 for j in range(size)] for i in range(size)]
def inverse(A):
# 2x2 matrix only
determinant = A[0][0] * A[1][1] - A[0][1] * A[1][0]
return multiply(1./determinant, [[A[1][1], -A[0][1]], [-A[1][0], A[0][0]]])
def norm(x):
return math.sqrt(sum(x[i] ** 2 for i in range(len(x))))
def diagonal(x):
return [[x[i] if i == j else 0 for j in range(len(x))] for i in range(len(x))]
def eigen_composition(V, l):
return multiply(multiply(V, diagonal(l)), inverse(V))
def normalize(x):
return [x[i]/norm(x) for i in range(len(x))]
def eigen_decomposition(A):
# 2x2 matrix only
l1 = (A[0][0] + A[1][1] + math.sqrt((A[0][0] - A[1][1])**2. + 4. * A[0][1] * A[1][0])) / 2.
l2 = (A[0][0] + A[1][1] - math.sqrt((A[0][0] - A[1][1])**2. + 4. * A[0][1] * A[1][0])) / 2.
v1 = [A[0][1], l1 - A[0][0]]
v2 = [A[0][1], l2 - A[0][0]]
V = transpose([normalize(v1), normalize(v2)])
return [[l1, l2], V]
def principal_component_analysis(X):
# X: n * 2 matrix (n: number of data points)
return eigen_decomposition(multiply(transpose(X), X))
| stack_edu |
الأحد، نوفمبر 01، 2009
Understanding and Selecting Appropriate Storage Media
1. What kind of storage media should I use?There are a number of storage media types that you can choose from, including tapes, CDs, DVDs, various mini-drives, or even hard drives. Discuss your storage needs with your Records Management (RM) and Information Technology (IT) staff. Your RM staff can advise you on how to identify and organize your e-records when you transfer them onto physical media, and your IT staff can advise you about technology choices or issues.
2. What are CDs/DVDs?
Compact Disc-Read Only Memory (CD-ROM), also referred to as CD-R, is a type of optical disk capable of storing large amounts of data - up to 1GB (gigabyte) - although the most common size is 650MB (megabytes). A single CD-ROM has the storage capacity of 700 floppy disks with enough memory to store about 300,000 text pages. Source: http://www.archives.gov/global-pages/exit.html?link=www.webopedia.com.
Digital Versatile Disc or Digital Video Disc (DVD) is a type of optical disk technology similar to the CD-ROM. A DVD holds a minimum of 4.7GB of data with enough memory for a full-length movie. DVDs are commonly used as a medium for digital representation of movies and other multimedia presentations that combine sound with graphics. Source: http://www.archives.gov/global-pages/exit.html?link=www.webopedia.com.
CD-R or CD-ROM stands for CD-Readable or CD-Read Only Memory; DVD-R stands for DVD-Readable. With CD-R/DVD-R, data can be recorded once, after which the disc becomes read-only. Use only CD-R/DVD-R discs for storing temporary records. These discs provide protection for your records against tampering or loss of data.
CD-RW/DVD-RW stands for CD Re-Writable or DVD Re-Writable. Rewritable media are not appropriate for e-records storage or retention. RW discs can be written to multiple times. The film layer on RW discs degrades at a faster rate than the dye used in CD-R/DVD-R discs, especially with frequent recording and re-writing.
3. Do CDs/DVDs support different formats?Yes. CD & DVD media often support multiple logical and physical formats that determine the hardware and software that will be required to read from the disks in the future. For example, Apple computers can read and write CDs in the HFS+ logical format while PCs running Microsoft Windows operating systems usually read and write CDs using the ISO 9660 logical format with Joliet extensions.
4. What is the significance of different colors for CDs/DVDs?The color of a CD/DVD indicates its quality. It is best to look for a gold or silver CD/DVD - look at the color from the underside of the disk, not the top. In addition, to assure the highest quality of a CD-R, look for those manufactured using phthalocyanine dye with gold or silver reflective layers. Do not use Azo- or (plain) cyanine-dyed media. For DVD-Rs, purchase double-sided/single-layer with a gold reflective underside. To assure you're using the highest quality CD/DVD and/or to avoid pitfalls in purchasing the correct type, refer to the source references in FAQ 15, below.
5. What is the shelf life of unrecorded CD-R/DVD-R discs?It is best to purchase new CDs/DVDs as they are needed. According to the Optical Storage Technology Association (OSTA), the unrecorded shelf life of a CD-R/DVD-R disc is conservatively estimated to be between 5 and 10 years. Source: http://www.archives.gov/global-pages/exit.html?link=http://www.osta.org/technology/cdqa13.htm
6. How long can I expect my recorded CDs/DVDs to last?CD/DVD experiential life expectancy is 2 to 5 years even though published life expectancies are often cited as 10 years, 25 years, or longer. However, a variety of factors discussed in the sources cited in FAQ 15, below, may result in a much shorter life span for CDs/DVDs. Life expectancies are statistically based; any specific medium may experience a critical failure before its life expectancy is reached. Additionally, the quality of your storage environment may increase or decrease the life expectancy of the media. We recommend testing your media at least every two years to assure your records are still readable.
Using Storage Media
7. What are my responsibilities in migrating media content and maintaining access to specific record formats over time?Your responsibilities for managing electronic Federal records are found in 36 CFR Part 1234, Electronic Records Management, at http://www.archives.gov/about/regulations/part-1234.html#partb. Section 1234.30 outlines agency responsibilities regarding the selection and maintenance of electronic records storage media. Section 1234.32 describes agency responsibilities for retention and disposition of electronic records.
8. What are the long-term access considerations for CDs/DVDs?Over the long term, your agency must develop policy and processes to ensure access to electronic records stored for a long duration on CDs or DVDs. NARA has provided guidance intended for permanent electronic records, which could be incorporated into policies and processes for long-term temporary e-records. The guidance list for permanent records can be found at http://www.archives.gov/records-mgmt/initiatives/erm-products.html. Some things you may want to think about as you develop your policies and procedures:
Read the disc immediately after writing and/or before storing it to verify that what was written is what was intended, that it is readable, and conforms to your inventory.
The discs might only be readable on the specific drive on which they were originally recorded or on some other compatible drive.
The data recorded onto CDs/DVDs should not be "zipped."
9. How do I know what electronic records are on each CD/DVD? You need to prepare a detailed inventory of what's on each CD/DVD. This includes information sufficient to locate an individual record, including identifiers that maintain the uniqueness of the record within the collection. To ensure the records contained on the CD/DVD can be retrieved and/or migrated when necessary, include the name and version of the software application for each file (e.g., Microsoft Word 2002) on your detailed inventory. There may also be a concern for the integrity of the files on the CD/DVD. If this is the case, you might use an example of an IT solution for unique identifiers for your records, which is to develop Hash codes. You may want to talk to your IT department about these, particularly in the case of longer-term temporary records.
10. What procedures are appropriate for storing classified records on CDs/DVDs?The handling of classified information on any medium and in any format has very unique and stringent requirements defined in National Security statutes, regulations, policies, and procedures. In order to properly handle and store classified information, you must contact your agency Information Security Manager.
11. How should I handle CDs and DVDs?Handle discs only by the outer edge or the center hole, never by touching the surface. Fingerprints can disrupt the tracking of the laser on the disc. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to remove any dirt, fingerprints, or smudges.
12. What is the preferred method for labeling CDs/DVDs?CDs and DVDs or their containers are labeled in some form or fashion so that they can be identified and organized according to your inventory. Many vendors sell CD-safe markers. For risk-free labeling of any disc, it is best to mark the clear inner hub or the so-called mirror band of the disc where they contain no data. Do not apply adhesive labels to the CD/DVD because they can damage the disc.
13. How do I store the discs to extend their useful life?Discs are best stored upright (like a book) in "jewel" cases that are designed specifically for CDs/DVDs. Ideally, store the cases in plastic or steel containers manufactured specifically for the type of medium in cool, dry storage that is free of large temperature fluctuations. Generally, useful life will be increased by storing discs at a low temperature and low relative humidity, since chemical degradation is reduced in these conditions. Store at 62-70 degrees F. and 35-50% relative humidity. Fluctuations in the storage area should not exceed +/- 2 degrees F. in temperature; relative humidity should not fluctuate more than +/- 5%.
14. What is the preferred method for destroying CDs/DVDs? When temporary records reach the end of their retention period, or if damage occurs to media while in storage, you will want to ensure that the data are irretrievable. Using industrial shredders or disintegrators is the preferred method of destruction. Shredding or disintegrating the media will ensure that no confidential, classified, personally identifiable, or privacy-protected information is left unprotected or available for unauthorized use. Shredders should meet NSA specifications for High Security Disintegrators (NSA/CSS 02-02) and Optical Media Destruction Devices (NSA/CSS 04-02). Some agencies have special requirements for media destruction so you should check with your RM and IT departments before recycling or destroying media. A number of commercial vendors provide recycling services for optical media. NARA's Federal Records Center Program provides this service as well; see Secure Media Shredding at http://www.archives.gov/frc/media-shredding.html.
15. Are there additional information resources regarding purchasing, copying, organizing, labeling, and maintaining CDs and DVDs?There are many resources and publications, such as:
NIST Special Publication 500-252, "Information Technology: Care and Handling of CDs and DVDs: A Guide for Librarians and Archivists," published by the U.S. Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards and Technology ( http://www.itl.nist.gov/iad/894.05/docs/CDandDVDCareandHandlingGuide.pdf);
Digital Preservation Guidance Note: "Care, Handling and Storage of Removable Media," from United Kingdom Digital Preservation Department of The National Archives (http://www.archives.gov/global-pages/exit.html?link=http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/documents/media_care.pdf);
"Using CDs for Data Storage," from the School of Library, Archival, and Information Studies, University of British Columbia, Canada (http://www.archives.gov/global-pages/exit.html?link=http://www.slais.ubc.ca/PEOPLE/students/student-projects/C_Hill/hill_libr516/index.htm);
Professional organizations such as the Association of Records Managers and Administrators (ARMA, http://www.archives.gov/global-pages/exit.html?link=www.arma.org), and the Association of Image and Information Management (AIIM, http://www.archives.gov/global-pages/exit.html?link=www.aiim.org);
The Optical Storage Technology Association (OSTA, http://www.archives.gov/global-pages/exit.html?link=http://www.osta.org/); and
Report: "Relative Stabilities of Optical Disk Formats," Joe Iraci, in the Restaurator - International Journal for the Preservation of Library and Archival Material (2005) (http://www.archives.gov/global-pages/exit.html?link=http://www.uni-muenster.de/Forum-Bestandserhaltung/downloads/iraci.pdf).
These and others have a wealth of information available for you to consult via their respective bookstores and on-line resources.
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The musical studioproject consisting of Rimer London, Baby Bosma, Mick Johan, Piet Parra and Sofie Winterson called MICH have now released their debut album. This musical baby is a mix of shoegaze, wave and krautrock with an pessimistic undertone. You can purchase the album here or stream it below.
MICH - MICH
This entry was posted on January 27, 2017. | fineweb_edu |
Aoi Leaf with Lapis Earrings - Japanese, early 19th Century, Sackler Gallery, Smithsonian
The design for this jewelry, a water plant, was adapted from the gold maki-e (sprinkled fine gold particles) on a Japanese wedding palanquin in the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery (S1985.1). A palanquin is a covered vehicle in which a single passenger is carried by one or more bearers. Palanquins were used for excursions, long-distance travel and special ceremonies, such as weddings. This palanquin dates to the Edo period; early 19th century.
Approx 1.5"H with Lapis | fineweb_edu |
Nancy Willard, Author, Jane Dyer, Illustrator
Nancy Willard, Author, Jane Dyer, Illustrator , illus. by Jane Dyer. Scholastic/Blue Sky $16.95 (32p) ISBN 978-0-590-56927-9
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Lilting poetry and a couple of warm-hearted magpies add a new dimension to the familiar tale. In a tree outside Cinderella's window, two birds confer about the lonely girl inside, their plan captured in Willard's (A Visit to William Blake's Inn ) deft verse: "She lights the stove and draws the water./ Her father's weak, her mother's dead./ Nobody tucks her into bed./ This stepsister they love to hate,/ let's make her our adopted daughter." Dyer's (I Love You Like Crazy Cakes ) watercolors revel in a fairy-tale mix of eras and objects; Cinderella's cruel stepmother wears a two-horned medieval headdress, but there's a bicycle parked outside the door. When the famous invitation arrives, the magpies craft Cinderella a magnificent dress from tissue, leaves, petals and loot from their nest; the magpie mamma withholds only a golden ring she wears on her tail. But the stepsisters ruin the dress, and Cinderella cries, "If only I hadn't lost the ring/ Mother gave me before she died./ She said 'Hammered from fairy gold,/ this simple band can change your fate.' " Mamma magpie, dismayed, realizes that her ring is really Cinderella's, and her decision to return it ushers in the reversal of the girl's fortunes. Omitting the scenes at the ball, the story's focus shifts away from courtship and romance, and instead considers the tenets of friendship. Dyer's art and Willard's poetry seem entwined; it's a graceful match, likely to cast its spell on fairy-tale fans. Ages 4-up. (Oct.)
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What about Bob… How a U-Turn Altered a Life
My friend Bob Bauder left this life on October 4, 2017 and created a huge hole with his passing.
From the time he arrived in Southern California in the 1960’s, to being part of the huge hot rod surge in the early 1980’s and finishing his life building some badass ’32 Fords, he left his mark. He had a style that was all his own and his infectious smile and laugh made it hard for anyone to not like him. Everyone has that one person they’ve met during their life that either changes or focuses the direction that you go in life and Bob was the guy who forged mine.
THE U-TURN THAT ALTERED MY COURSE
I met him in 1984 in Hesperia California when he passed me going the opposite direction in his lowered 1947 Ford convertible. I did a quick u-turn, because I really wanted to check out the car. Little did I know, a simple u-turn would have such a profound effect on my life and a lot of my future friendships.
As luck would have it (funny because I’m not much of a “luck” guy) he pulled into a store parking lot about a half mile up the road. I pulled into the parking lot and introduced myself while trying to be as cool as a dumb 21 year old kid can be and he was very gracious by showing me every bit of the car while his wife Diana waited very patiently for us to quit blabbing so she could go home. When I told him I was a pinstriper, he asked for a card and said he had some work for me and that I needed to come up the mountain. During one of my visits to do work for him, I was introduced to his across the street neighbors (and good friends) Mike Harper (who built Aldan shocks) and Pete Chapouris (of Pete and Jake’s & So Cal Speed Shop) who also had me do work (a couple bikes for Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top were even thrown in the mix) for them.
In 1992, famed Southern California custom painter Dick Vale had just finished painting a vintage nitro burning dragster for Bob and Dick asked him if he knew a striping/lettering guy because he was looking for one. Bob gave Dick my number and that call turned into a sixteen-year friendship (until his passing in 2008) with a great guy and also allowed me to work on some really awesome vehicles! It also allowed me to be flown to numerous locations (including twice to Maui) to work on customer’s other projects.
IT’S A SMALL WORLD
Next door to Vale’s shop was Bob’s best friend Boyd Coddington, who was very cool and also where I met Boyd’s new employee Chip Foose, who started about the same time as myself down there. I also met Dennis Ricklefs, one of my pinstriping heroes who was next door doing all of Boyd’s stuff. Was really cool that I even got the call to do a few jobs there when Dennis was busy. I’m fortunate to have made friends with a bunch of talented guys on that block and will always have some amazing memories from that part of my life.
Fast forward a couple years ago and Bob built a really slick 1932 B400 for a customer and I got the call to stripe it. Being that there were such a small run of those cars, I was honored to be involved. The last thing Bob built was his own 1932 (yes, he had an affinity for the B models!) pickup truck that definitely had the “Bauder” touch. He called me when he was building it and told me he wanted me to stripe it. When it was done (I hadn’t seen it yet) being built, I asked him how low it was and he giggled when he told me had to raise it an inch so he could get it out of his driveway! I laughed because if HE had to raise it, the truck was definitely LOW!
The time I was able to spend with this amazing man I will forever cherish. When we talked, he listened and treated me with absolute respect from the time we first met until I was working on his last project. Thank you Bob for helping point my life in the direction you did. I will never forget you… | fineweb_edu |
UIDAI misses Aadhaar registration deadline
A news report claims that the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), the government agency in charge of Aadhaar, missed the deadline to enroll every resident of India late last year.
Aadhaar, recognized as the world’s largest universal civil ID program and biometric database, is used by the Indian government to provide social services. To date, Aadhaar has issued over 900 million Aadhaar numbers, and has enrolled approximately 850 million people, with a goal of ultimately enrolling 1.28 billion people.
According to the article in Mint, Prime Minister Narendra Modi asked UIDAI last September to complete enrollment of all Indian residents by December 31, 2015. Due to the missed deadline, UIDAI will be undertaking a “multi-prong” approach to accelerate enrollment.
The article notes that UIDAI will activate all existing Aadhaar enrollment centers (AECs), along with identifying and equipping existing information technology-enabled outlets at various government departments and agencies in states to double as AECs.
The story reports that the government will use both child-care centers and schools to enroll those aged up to 18 years. UIDAI is also asking state governments to procure additional enrollment kits.
“We are asking states which have large chunks of population to be enrolled to procure more kits,” an Indian government official told Mint. “Out of the 330 million yet to be provided a unique identity number, 194.8 million people are in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka. We are advising state governments to utilize places such as high school computer laboratories for setting up centers for enrolment.”
Modi’s government is anxious to register all Indian residents, in order to implement its scheme to expand social services to include a new universal healthcare scheme, along with enhanced monitoring of government employee attendance and truancy. The government also wants to expand the use of the Aadhaar biometric system for national security and crime-related surveillance. | fineweb_edu |
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The Complete Commercial Building Renovation Checklist
The Complete Commercial Building Renovation Checklist
Commercial renovation projects are picking up speed as companies embrace hybrid work models and retail spaces reopen their doors. If you’re looking to renovate your commercial space, now is a great time to start.
As you begin to familiarize yourself with the renovation process, you will find that renovating a commercial building involves many moving parts. Carefully executing each step of the process is crucial to the project’s success, so it’s important to stay organized and ensure that the project stays on track.
Read on to learn more about the commercial renovation process or skip to the infographic below to discover the future of commercial office spaces.
Table of Contents
What Is Commercial Renovation?
Commercial renovation involves updating or remodeling a building that houses private businesses. These structures typically house offices, retail spaces, licensed practitioner offices or any other commercial business that needs to buy or rent a space.
The main goal of a commercial renovation project is usually to expand an existing space or increase value and customer experience to boost sales. Renovation projects can be isolated to one floor or office space, but they can also involve the entire building.
How Long Does It Take To Renovate a Commercial Building?
The time it takes to renovate a commercial space depends on the size and scope of the project. A project as simple as updating paint and flooring could only take a couple of weeks, while larger-scale renovations — like creating an entirely new floor plan — can take eight months or more.
When estimating a timeline for a commercial renovation project, it’s important to consider the estimated cost. Remodeling a commercial building can cost anywhere from less than $40 per square foot to upwards of $250 per square foot depending on the size and length of the project, so projects with a smaller budget may need to stick with a shorter timeline.
Printing out a commercial building renovation checklist can help you stay organized as your project unfolds. Download our editable checklist by clicking the button below and making a copy.
Renovation checklist mockup
Planning Stage
The planning stage is one of the most important parts of the renovation process. During this stage, you will carefully plan out the details of your project, create a budget and begin the hiring process.
1. Assess the Building and Surrounding Neighborhood
Taking time to give the building a thorough walk-through is an important first step in the renovation process. This allows you to get a feel for the space, note any obvious issues and get to know the neighborhood. As you examine the building, it can help to think about how your changes might impact the look and feel of the surrounding neighborhood.
This is also a good time to get up to date on your city’s building codes. Getting a structure up to code can cost a lot of extra money, so you’ll want to know about any code violations before you create your budget.
2. Create a Budget
Once you have an understanding of the building or office space set for renovation, you will need to start creating a budget. The budget should account for the cost of materials, employee wages, the projected timeline and any other factors that could affect the overall cost.
It is crucial to make the budget as detailed as possible to help minimize the risk of going over, especially for large projects involving multiple moving parts. To do this, you should do a thorough cost analysis and get detailed quotes from designers and contractors.
3. Hire a Contractor
When beginning the hiring process, you should look into hiring a commercial remodeling contractor rather than a general contractor. This type of contractor specializes in commercial construction, and they will generally have a better understanding of how to successfully execute your project.
Your contractor will be responsible for everything from obtaining building permits to overseeing supply purchases, so it’s important to choose the right one. Some of the most important qualities to look for in a commercial contractor include:
• Is licensed and insured
• Offers realistic cost estimates
• Has experience with your type of project
• Has good references and a perfect work record
• Has a large enough team to complete the project
Qualities of a Good Contractor
Once you have hammered out a budget and hired a contractor, your project can move into design and pre-construction. During this stage, you will create a design, finalize contracts and obtain the materials and equipment you will need for your project.
4. Create a Conceptual and Schematic Design
The pre-construction phase begins with creating a detailed design that will help guide you through the rest of the project. The design phase can be broken down into the following two parts:
Conceptual design
A conceptual design allows you to get creative without worrying about the budget. When creating a conceptual design, you should allow your architect to work freely and come up with the most efficient, appealing design possible. This gives you a better understanding of their capabilities and helps reveal the building’s full potential.
Schematic design
The final design focuses on specific amenities and costs for the renovation project. You will likely have to scale down some of your previous ideas to fit your budget, and you might see changes that you didn’t originally anticipate. Fortunately, a skilled architect can help you create a design that incorporates items on your wish list while staying within budget.
5. Finalize Contracts
Before you nail in the first hammer, you should carefully review and finalize all of your contracts. This includes the building contract and any contracts you have with your contractor and other crew members. When looking over your contracts, ensure that all roles, construction dates, payment terms and warranties are clear and correct.
6. Procure Materials and Equipment
Obtaining the proper equipment and building materials can be a tricky process. Fortunately, your contractor will coordinate with suppliers and equipment rental companies to ensure the project stays within budget.
Once your equipment and materials are lined up, take one last look at contracts and purchase orders to make sure they match previously agreed-upon prices. You should address any discrepancies before construction begins.
It’s exciting to see the project begin to take shape as construction takes off. However, this phase involves more than simply putting the pieces together, and a lot of it takes place behind the scenes.
7. Engage With Current Tenants
Ongoing construction can be hard for current tenants to deal with. Loud equipment, restricted building access and unsightly construction projects are all common complaints during renovation projects.
To help minimize their discomfort, you should make tenants aware of the project ahead of time and provide them with updates throughout the process. Creating and displaying 3D renderings of the final product is a great way to reassure tenants that the unsightly construction will be worth it in the long run.
8. Undergo and Pass Inspections
The building will need to undergo multiple inspections throughout the renovation process to ensure that it meets all safety requirements and building codes. The foundation, electricity and plumbing system will all need to pass individual inspections during the construction process. If errors or issues are present, they can be addressed before moving on to the next stage.
Commercial Building Inspection Checklist
9. Reference the Project Punch List
The project punch list comes into play toward the end of the construction stage. This list shows any work that still needs to be done, and referencing it can help identify areas that still need some fine-tuning. The contractor is typically responsible for executing the punch list walk-through and identifying any final areas in need of improvement.
The post-construction stage involves the fewest steps, but it is just as important as the other three stages. During post-construction, the building must undergo final inspections and receive documentation to confirm that it is safe and ready to open.
10. Acquire a Certificate of Substantial Completion
Once construction is complete and the space is up to code, you will need to acquire a certificate of substantial completion. This certificate verifies that the tenant can occupy the space for its intended use and allows the contractor to collect any final payments.
That said, it is important to note that this certificate can be issued before all of the final details are finished. If the building is fit for use but still needs some work, the certificate of substantial completion will specify who is responsible for any unfinished work.
11. Pass a Final Inspection
Before you can unveil the final product, the building will need to pass one final inspection. As long as you have followed all of the required rules and regulations during the previous steps, construction can conclude after the final inspection is complete.
Taking on a commercial renovation project can feel overwhelming, but careful preparation and a detailed checklist can help simplify the process. As long as you see each step through, your new storefront or office space will be ready to go in no time.
To get a better understanding of the future of commercial buildings in a post-pandemic world, check out the visual below.
The Future of Office Buildings
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Harvey: If Astros want intense, they got it with Porter
Updated 10:33 am, Saturday, September 29, 2012
So why is Bo Porter becoming the Astros' manager as soon as he finishes his current duties as the Washington Nationals' third-base coach?
You can accept the simple explanation offered by Crane and general manager Jeff Luhnow on Thursday that Porter was the best candidate available and surmise they believe another team would hire him if the Astros didn't.
Porter, 40, was a finalist two years ago for the Pittsburgh Pirates and Miami Marlins. He probably would be a candidate to replace Davey Johnson next season in Washington, although it appears Johnson will return after leading the Nationals to the playoffs for the first time.
A futuristic Philadelphia Phillies website has already announced Porter as their team's manager - in 2014.
During a news conference at Minute Maid Park, Luhnow apologized in advance for giving in to the temptation to say, "Bo knows baseball.''
So probably do the other 48 candidates the Astros considered before eventually narrowing the possibilities to eight, then four, then one. Considering Porter has no major league managing experience - he has been a major league bench coach for half a season and has never coached in the American League - you have to wonder why he was the one.
You can, however, guess when Porter became the one.
It was exactly three weeks before Thursday's Astros announcement, on Sept. 6, when Porter was in the center of a bench-clearing brawl between the Nationals and Chicago Cubs.
You talkin' to me?
Porter was in the third-base coaching box, either minding his own business or not, when the Cubs' bench coach, Jamie Quirk, began yelling at him from the dugout.
Now it's possible Quirk, who was the Astros' bullpen coach last season, might have been inquiring how Porter and his wife, a Houston native, liked the of-seasons in our Bayou City, perhaps hoping to trade some restaurant recommendations.
Porter didn't appear to hear it like that and approached the Cubs' dugout to confront Quirk. The next thing you know, all the Cubs and Nationals were on the field, trading restaurant recommendations.
Johnson said later that the Cubs were angry because the Nationals were swinging at 3-0 pitches with a five-run lead, thus violating baseball's unwritten rule that thou shall not swing at 3-0 pitches when ahead 7-2.
There also was speculation from the Cubs' broadcasters that the Nationals' coaches, including Porter, were stealing signs and relaying them to hitters. Because who would possibly hit Cubs pitching without stealing signs?
In any case, it would not surprise me if Porter, who already was a legitimate candidate for the Astros, established himself as the front-runner in that moment.
He certainly established himself as the anti-Brad Mills.
Defensive back at Iowa
Porter is a former University of Iowa defensive back who, like former Michigan State wide receiver Kirk Gibson, brings a football mentality to a baseball clubhouse. Porter was Gibson's bench coach for a few months during the 2010 season with the Arizona Diamondbacks, and you can imagine some of the conversations they had when the Big Ten season started.
"Intensity is a word people could use about me,'' Porter said by conference call Thursday from Philadelphia, where the Nationals were wrapping up a series.
Other words Porter used to describe himself were passionate, enthusiastic, passionate, energetic and passionate. He's also passionate.
He didn't use the word patient.
Luhnow said that was fine with him.
"We're not really patient,'' he said, although only moments before he had reiterated this season's theme that massive reconstruction like the Astros are undergoing requires time.
"Bo Porter helps us accelerate that timetable,'' Luhnow said.
It's not as confusing as it sounds. The Astros want fans who are patient so they'll continue to buy tickets but a manager who is not so that those tickets sooner than later will be worth buying. | fineweb_edu |
It's a Full Moon weekend. What more do you need to know? Oh, it's not so bad. But, as per typical, those that work in hospitals, health care facilities, police and those that work on the front lines with the public know their shifts this weekend are not likely to be boring. With a Full Moon in Virgo and her ruler, Mercury in Pisces, I would expect belly problems, intoxication stuff (overdose potential) and general confusion. Mental health issues could also become exacerbated. General lunacy at the low end is to be expected. The good news, however, is this isn't a particularly “wild” moon.
On a personal level, it offers us the medicine we need. The challenge is to realize this is medicine and not punishment. Plus, by realizing we don't have to be all Nurse Ratchet about it. The low end of the energy coming forth can be self-depreciating and critical. The high end, however, allows us to release poisons of the mind, get the facts straight, bring forth semblances of order within the chaos and see where we can shore things up...simplify... As Mercury inches toward and perfects in square to Saturn just a few hours prior to this Full Moon on Sunday morning, what was once semi-elusive or confusing information becomes more solid for better or worse. We may feel censored. And, if you find that to be the case, take it as a cue to listen. There may be something helpful that you need to hear.
Saturday, March 11, 2017
This morning the Moon resides in Virgo as Mercury leaves his conjunction with Chiron. Most of the morning is colored with minor lunar aspect. Plus, the Sun meets Jupiter in Libra by inconjunct at 3:09 PM. This is very subtle but does brighten things up a bit. It's a gentle mixture of softness, optimism and identity. If you really pay attention, it could show you a little more about how you relate to others and why. The level of influence your relationships have over you. It can also teach you about how you choose others to be in relationship with and what some of the issues may be there.
By 3:09 PM, the Moon is opposite Neptune in Pisces creating an emotional fog and an uptick in sensitivity. Granted. Moon/Neptune is not an energy everyone is comfortable with. However, what this opposition can show us is where we may be too hard edged. Too self-critical or overly critical of others. Plus, Virgo Moon is exactly the energy one needs in an effort to make sense of the intuitive hits brought forth by Neptune. She allows us to put this information to use. Yet, it's not a really productive energy. It's very soft. Emotive. And, it could...even...may your eyes leak a bit. Wallowing and being overwhelmed by emotion are at the low end here. In that regard, the aspect becomes very personal. It relaxes the emotional body just enough to push things forth into our awareness that we need to take note of. It could lead to a desire to sleep, escape or reach for a glass of wine. It's a great evening for just relaxing, taking in a movie, listening to music or, even, a midday nap. It's not physically active but there is plenty going on inside of us that probably deserves our attention. Plus, it's beautifully creative and compassionate.
However, this is also where the potential for belly issues to come into play. Bellies are important when the Moon is in Virgo. When she is opposing a stellium in Pisces, we could be more sensitive to things we already have sensitivities to. Does that make sense? For example, if you typically have two drinks and are done for the night; tonight, it may only take one. If you have allergies, they may become punctuated. If you are already prone to digestive issues; then, these can become prominent. Plus, communicable or contagious stuff is a factor due the fact that our defenses against such may be low. Remember the importance of personal PHYSICAL boundaries against illness. Hand washing is your best defense against that. With Mars in Taurus, we may be prone to indulge (eat the ice cream when we know we are lactose intolerant as an example). This isn't really the best day for that. Moderation. Gentleness. Boundary. Grounding. Quiet time. Naps. Slowing down. All this fits well under Moon/Neptune.
This, accompanied with the energy of the waxing full moon itself, carries us through the night.
Sunday, March 12, 2017
This morning the Moon stabilizes quite well as she trines Pluto in Capricorn at 4:58 PM. Here is the boundary we were looking for! The emotional body is re-fortified and re-focused to a degree. Then, the mental body is harshly stabilized as Mercury in Pisces meets Saturn by square at 8:11 AM. Yes, this can have a hard edge. It can cause us to feel censored or the weight of words could become heavier. Yet, it also makes the truth accessible even if it may be hard to swallow. The trick here is not to become self-critical over what you discover. Take it for what it is. Information that you need in an effort to move forward more well informed. Lies could be discovered here. Reality knocks harshly on our door. At the same time, though, confusion could dissipate and miscommunication/misunderstanding rectified. Again the caution is negative thinking. Detach from and become observant of your thoughts. A watchful steward over the direction of your brain. If you have a tendency to be self-critical or allow yourself to dwell on negative thoughts instead of redirecting toward more positive self-talk this will be very apparent under this aspect. You CAN redirect.
Our Full Moon bursts open at 10:55 AM complete with an opposition to all the things in Pisces (save Neptune which we did yesterday) which includes Chiron (3:17 PM), Mercury (10:37 PM) and the Sun..of course. She is also square Saturn in Sagittarius (8:26 PM) which creates a mutable t-square. There is also a sneaky little inconjunct to Uranus in Aries (11:44 AM) that leads in this Full Moon.
For the Sun at Pisces 23: A “materializing medium” summons weird ghostly shapes. Manifestation is one way to look at this degree. But, it is less of a material manifestation and more of a deliberate use and movement of energies. The medium summons ghosts. You can see them. But, you cannot actually grab them and pull them into physical life. They just kind of float around, you know? This can also denote a haunting-type feel especially with the Sun in such close proximity to Chiron. There could be some elusive self-doubt floating around in the ethers as well as memories of times when you tried this before and things didn't exactly go as planned. With both Venus and Jupiter retrograde, this can also denote memories of our past interactions with others. Learn from past mistakes but do not let self-doubt and uncertainty unseat you. Remain consciously engaged in what you are doing while employing the wisdom you have garnered thus far. Know that there may also be things like bias, weak boundaries or physical pollutants/addictions that are affecting our mode of operations. Become aware and in control of those by engaging a few good doses of reality by way of Saturn. And, don't just go around summoning up ghosts for fun (this applies to summoning foul memories as well). They generally do not like to be summonsed without good cause. Also, don't discount synchronicities as mere coincidence. There are no coincidences under this sky.
For the Moon at Virgo 23: A lion tamer rushes fearlessly into the circus arena. Moral strength and fortitude is tested here. Whenever I see this degree, I think of the Strength card and maintaining 100% control of your “inner beast” through will power and humility. There could be veritable threats to ego energies...again due Chiron...which is why you need to maintain faith in yourself without pumping your ego up to extremes at the same time. This is surely a mastery degree in which we must pull upon all our faculties and sheer away distractions in an effort to maintain readiness to act when called to do so.
For the Moon's ruler, Mercury, at 27 Pisces: The harvest moon rises in translucent autumnal skies. Ironic, I believe, that this degree is in play during during a Full Moon in Virgo; and, it speaks of harvest and autumn. Even more ironic that the degree falls in Pisces. However, Pisces does bring resolution and harvesting of what we've previously sown to a degree. The latter degrees of Pisces bring a finality prior to a new cycle which begins in Aries. So, yes, some culmination is to be expected.
The Sabian Symbol for the Sun mentions “materializing.” In this symbol, we have the opportunity of manifestation or “materializing of thought” or “bringing to Earth creative (Pisces) vision (Mercury).”
Mercury is actually very important at this Full Moon. He not only rules the lunation itself, but, he is also preparing to be rebirthed from Pisces and into Aries. Apparently, before the mental body is reborn, there are some “mental demons” that may need to be released, exorcised and/or tamed. Plus, the outlet for the mutable t-square created with the Full Moon finds outlet in Gemini also ruled by this same Mercury. Be open to learning and looking at things from a different perspective. There is something “in this” for you if you can elevate yourself so that you are not drowning in the heightened emotion. “Mental medicine” that you may need. The information that comes to us is likely personalized but that doesn't mean we should take it personally. The point is to learn from it in an effort to imbue future actions with the wisdom that is gleaned from it.
This Full Moon is great for forgiving and releasing old memories. Redirecting or releasing self-depreciating speech (inner talk), self-criticisms while noting (as potential memories emerge) where we have grown or where we need to prune in an effort to grow more sturdily. Self-care initiatives are greatly accentuated. Energetically clearing and cleaning your physical space is good exercise under ANY Full Moon but particularly astute under this one. Think about opening new fresh spaces in your living sphere. But, also think about clearing things like worry, doubt and criticism from your brain allowing room for freshness to enter there, too. It's also great for looking at the ways we communicate with others. If you automatically go to the “worst case scenario” now is the time to notice that and release that habit.
Speaking of habits, Full Moons are great for banishing them. However, as we do this under this Full Moon, its important to remember that Mars resides in Taurus. This energy is prone to get stuck in ruts of habit. So, if you are looking to change habits now, know that it is going to be a slow and diligent process of release that needs to be taken on a day to day basis. Any progress you make in this regard needs to be recognized and rewarded by you. Plus, it doesn't hurt to keep your incentive for wanting to change at the fore. Know that with Mars in Taurus, changing your momentum is the hardest part. But, also, treating yourself with gentle reward for work well done helps. Would you like to know how many times I've enticed Mars in Taurus to do something while offering an incentive of food? Hey, if you help me do...whatever...I'll make a cheesecake just for you. Why? Because it works. Mars in Taurus is an energy that will work for food..or massages..or sex..or reward in general. You can entice your own motivation with reward also.
Following the Moon's opposition with Mercury in Pisces (10:37 PM), the Moon is Void until entering Libra at 1:29 AM. This is our last full day with Mercury in Pisces. Tomorrow he shifts into Aries at quitting time (5:08 PM). Use this Moon to lighten your mental load in preparation for that shift. And, clean/organize something. As without so within. Cleaning, purging, organizing in the physical world can absolutely help us to sort things out on the inside, too. | fineweb_edu |
Yes, you failed again: The State of Tests at Vanderbilt
Yes, you failed again: The State of Tests at Vanderbilt
“I am told grades don’t define who I am, but it seems like every exam day I risk the rest of my future on a piece of paper.”
This is the reaction of an anonymous freshman after taking a Calculus exam. This sentiment could be also felt throughout the dorms of first-years a week after taking their General Chemistry exam, a test with an average score of 66.1%.
For many first years at Vanderbilt, Gen Chem and Calc 1 exams can be described as, at best, painful experiences. Alumni and upperclassmen alike look back and are thankful to have passed these courses (or in some cases, to have returned to finish the class for the second time).
First year Leah Melancon after her second Calc 1 exam claimed that, “Tests are too stressful and do not accurately measures students’ intelligence. Time constraints are unrealistic.” Indeed, those who question the usefulness of tests argue that tests are inaccurate measures of student performance and put unnecessary strain on students. For many students, like senior Vania Ejiofor, tests are “not very effective for long-term retention of information. It’s essentially a cram session.”
And to go through a test and come out of it with a low grade can be even more discouraging. Students who worry about tests use up more cognitive resources during a test (leading to lower test scores). In addition, high test anxiety correlates with low self esteem and academic achievement. Because the average of the first Gen Chem test was a 66.1%, this can lead to a vicious cycle for some students; test anxiety is also related to poor study habits. Did the average student only understand 66% of the material taught from the beginning of the semester?
So why do exams exist? Who do they benefit anyways? Why do we need to take them?
Dr. Lori Rafter, a lecturer for Calc 1, says that exams are only a part of the work she gives to students. In addition to exams, she gives graded assignments and quizzes, all of which allow students to determine their comprehension of the material themselves. Test taking, she says, is just one of the skills that students must learn to succeed. In an exam environment, she can determine if students have digested the material well enough to use it under pressure.
As for whether or not first years entering Calc 1 are prepared for the material in the class, she says that high school material requires a different level of comprehension. Because Vanderbilt pulls students from all states across the U.S. and many countries around the world, these students arrive at Vanderbilt with varying levels of math skills. She argues that students must be dedicated in order to do well because math is a “vertical subject,” requiring students to go back and learn information.
But the majority of students’ grades in classes like Calc 1 and Gen Chem still come from exams. So although lecturers like Dr. Rafter can give different types of assignments, many students who don’t do well in testing conditions still see their grades suffer.
However, Dr. Elisabeth Sandberg, a senior lecturer for PSY 1200 (General Psychology), says that the structure of large lecture classes actually prevents the variety of assessment methods that students prefer. Due to large class sizes, it’s impractical for professors to assign projects that might be more comprehensive assessments of student learning. In addition, introductory courses like PSY 1200, Gen Chem and Calc 1 are meant to introduce students to subject matter. Large lecture classes are meant to spark interest for students to dig deeper into a particular subject, but if students can’t understand introductory material enough to display it on an exam, students may have to reconsider taking classes in the area.
These are actually the skills that companies prefer. According to the American Association of Colleges and Universities in a report summarizing two national surveys of business executives, “78 percent of executives and 81 percent of hiring managers find ePortfolios useful when evaluating recent graduates, versus 51 percent of executives and 48 percent of hiring managers who find college transcripts useful.” In fact, the report continues, graduates who held internships, apprenticeships, or other applied and project-based learning experiences have stronger advantages in the higher process. Among those surveyed, 93 percent of executives “say that they would be more likely to hire a recent graduate who has held an internship or apprenticeship with a company or organization.”
Most companies find resumes a lot more useful than grades in any college class; in other words, real world experience is far more valuable than how we might do on a given test. This is something that Vanderbilt does exceptionally well. Students have access to the Career Center with a wealth of information and numerous opportunities to network through clubs, world-renowned professors, career fairs and alumni.
So should the administration consider creating smaller class sizes in order to give professors (and students) more options on assessments? Companies obviously value the skills that students could gain from application based classes, so why do we continue to take exams?
About author
Tony Owusu
Tony Owusu is a freshman from Alexandria, VA majoring in Biomedical Engineering on the pre-med track. He is interested in issues that affect Vanderbilt students as well as minority groups across the world. | dclm_edu |
Tuesday, 27 February 2018
The Tour of Yasukuni Shrine: dark tourism, war criminals and a broken audio tour
This Shinto Shrine, located in the centre of Tokyo, is a famous yet highly contentious dark tourism destination. It shot to prominence in 2013 when Japanese president Shinzo Abe visited it to pay respects to the country's war dead, which this site commemorates. Among those honoured are Class A war criminals. This broke international protocol and immediately provoked angry responses from China and Korea.
I had downloaded the app My GPS City which said it offered an audio tour of the shrine. It only featured short text entries for a handful of spots, the map didn't work and other functions were disabled too. It was, in effect, an advert for the real app and a waste of space on my phone.
I picked up the paper guide provided by the shrine and wandered through the gnarled trees. A few things struck me. The shrine was established following a civil war during the Meiji era and later evolved into a national shrine commemorating losses against foreign nations. The names for wars were unfamiliar, there was "the China incident" and "the Greater East Asian War" AKA WW2. Additionally, the English is clumsily written and in need of a proofread. It is obvious no native speaker was ever let close to the text, which says something in itself.
I came across this panel and immediately connected, eager to see if the audio guide would be as stiff as the brochure. Strangely, however, the audio would not load. I walked to several different corners of this expansive shrine, tried different pages and the Japanese site too, but this audio guide just wasn't happening. This struck me as profoundly odd as I had not experienced this sort of failure of technology before in Japan. This would be the last place I'd expect the technology to seize up so I could only guess there was something to do with the content or management behind the withdrawal of this service.
Nobody wanted to offer an audio guide then, so I meandered through taking in one "incident" after another. A number of the panels showed Japanese soldiers in China.
The other visitors to the shrine on this chilly February afternoon were mostly middle-aged Japanese men. There can be different motivations for coming to this site and not all who gather here will be right wing nationalists. What is striking, however, is the demographic portrait of the new right that Furuya Tsunehira paints in her article on cyber nationalists in Japanit is precisely the same group. Contrary to what she asserts, I also got the impression during my two-week stay that they were not a spent force but were exercising growing political influence. An interesting thing she points out is that "history education in Japanese public schools is woefully inadequate, and instruction on modern and contemporary history is particularly sparse."
The version of history which pervades the shrine is one I heard echoes of during a talk a few days earlier that characterised Japan as a victim of the second world war. The shrine sets itself up to be a religious site that simply honours the fallen but it does so in such a way that it proposes a completely alternative narrative of the 20th century. The museum, which I did not visit, has been singled out by other visitors as particularly guilty of "a retelling of the war from the perspective of the ultra-right wing." I now regret being too tight to pay the 1000 yen entrance fee.
There were statues thoughtfully acknowledging the contributions animals made to 'preserving peace in the nation' or Japanese militarism, depending on your point of view. This got me thinking that, if animals' spirits are also enshrined here too, what is the limit of who is in and who is out? The dogs that died in the wars did not choose to have their spirits enshrined here anymore than the soldiers did, it was simply decided that they'd be honoured here. What if they don't want to be enshrined? Did they get a choice?
Then comes the question of the Canadian POWs who were used as slave labour in Japan during the war and who died in their droves due to mistreatment and malnutrition. They too made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of the Japanese war effort, but I'd be surprised to find their spirits enshrined here, though I could be wrong. The section of the video around 1 hour 20 features the Yasukuni shrine and a Canadian survivor meeting Japanese veterans. The failure of their otherwise sound memory when it comes to the crucial details of war crimes is telling.
A special memorial had been put up for the Indian judge Dr Radha Pal who sat on the Tokyo Trials of war criminals and who differed in his opinions to the rest of the panel of judges. The paper that is given out on this memorial is very selective in what it takes from Pal and never mentions things like, "Pal never questioned whether atrocities were committed by Japan at Nanking, he just suspected that the accounts included exaggeration." This would put him in the camp of those who downplay the Nanjing Massacre not those who outright deny it like Toshio Motoya, owner of APA Hotels (a major Japanese hotel chain). Pal's stance may be seen within the frame of Indian independence and his major point is that the justice that was administered was a victor's justice that ignored colonial grievances.
If I compare this site to the Imperial War Museum and Cenotaph in London, there are some similarities in that they both offer self-serving narratives of war and colonial expansion. There is also a religiosity to the latter site with severe sentences handed out for decidedly minor crimes committed there. These sort of sites have this tendency the world over. Where Yasukuni differs is the degree to which it has become embedded within political narratives as a result of the version of history that is projected here. For as long as the versions of history told in Japan and those relayed by its neighbours remain so far apart this site will remain a hot dark tourist site. This will almost certainly remain the case for some time to come as neighbouring narratives are not without their own self-serving particularities too. One just has to compare the Beijing and Taipei WW2 museums to see this most evidently. This is not inevitable; France and Germany managed to jointly produce a history book that is read in both countries. Reconciliation can happen when there is a desire to make it happen. Given the existence of shame cultures as opposed to guilt cultures in East Asia, however, this sort of joint initiative looks as far away as ever as it would entail considerable loss of face. Yasukuni will, therefore, remain divisive for many more years. I just wish they'd fix their audio guide so the full mendacity of it can be fully appreciated.
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You are here: Home » International Contracts » International Joint Venture Contract: A Process in 5 Steps
International Joint Venture Contract: A Process in 5 Steps
The International Joint Venture Contract governs the relationship between two companies located in different countries, and which set up a third company, the Joint Venture, with the intention of jointly establishing an activity with its own objectives: research, marketing and distribution, manufacturing, etc. Drafting International Joint Ventures Contracts requires a five-step methodology in order to negotiate them successfully:
Step 1. Joint Venture mentality
The primary goal of Step 1 is to establish a partnership mentality. Both parties must make a conscious effort to create an environment of trust; one in which they are transparent about their high-level aspirations, specific goals and concerns.
Step 2. Co-create a shared vision and objectives
To keep expectations aligned in a complex and changing environment, both parties –nor just the one with greater power – need to explain their vision and goals for the relationship.
Step 3. Adopt guiding principles
Value-eroding friction and shading occur because one or both parties feel unfairly treated. This risk is highest when there are many unknowns about what will occur after the Joint Venture contract is signed. In Step 3, parties commit to six guiding principles that contractually prohibit opportunistic tit-for-tar moves.
The six principles are: reciprocity, autonomy, honesty, loyalty, equity and integrity. They form the basis for all International Joint Venture Contracts using vested methodology and provide a framework for resolving potential misalignments when unforeseen circumstances occur.
Step 4. Align expectations and interests
Having set the foundation for the relationship in the first three steps, parties hammer out the terms of the Joint Venture Contract. It is crucial that all terms and conditions of the formal relationship contract are aligned with the guiding principles. With the right mindset, the development of the Joint Venture Contract becomes a joint problem-solving exercise rather than an adversarial contest.
Step 5. Stay aligned
In this final step, contracting parties go beyond crafting the terms of the agreement and establish governance mechanisms that are formally embedded in the contract.
This process should be part of the drafting of International Joint Ventures Contracts whose objective is to govern highly complex relationships that demand collaboration and demand. obtain the International Joint Venture Contract template click on:
International Joint Venture Contract
About Olegario Llamazares
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Check out our Public Events calendar. WFIT Public Events is a growing community resource that showcases local and regional events. The WFIT staff strives to help get the word out about the rich array of musical, educational, cultural, environmental and philanthropic offerings in Brevard, but it's impossible to include them all. We invite you to click "Submit an event" on the Events tab on our homepage. You will find an easy-to-navigate portal which allows entry of all the details about your event including links, art and more. Your submission will be approved promptly.
If you have any questions or experience any difficulties entering your event, please call Rose Mantle at 321--674-8140 or send an email to [email protected]. | fineweb_edu |
Link to PDC South Brochure
Expansion to South County
On December 1, 2014 the Mass. Department of Public Health (DPH) awarded Pediatric Development Center the contract to provide early intervention services to South Berkshire County. This includes the towns of Alford, Egremont, Great Barrington, Monterey, Mt. Washington, New Marlborough, Otis, Sandisfield, Southfield, Sheffield, Stockbridge, and West Stockbridge.
The contract was awarded to PDC in recognition of our lengthy history of providing comprehensive services to children in the Central Berkshire area, and in acknowledgement of our highly qualified staff. We are pleased to extend our services to this area.
PDC has opened a new site, PDC South, at 924 South Main St, Great Barrington.
If you know a child or family in need of early intervention in South Berkshire County, please encourage them to give us a call in our new office, at 717-4083, or in Pittsfield at 499-4537 | fineweb_edu |
Spengler: There’s something very important I forgot to tell you.
Spengler: Don’t cross the streams.
Spengler: It would be bad.
Venkman: I’m fuzzy on the whole good/bad thing. What do you mean, “bad”?
Spengler: Try to imagine all life as you know it stopping instantaneously and every molecule in your body exploding at the speed of light.
Stantz: Total protonic reversal!
Venkman: Right. That’s bad. Okay. All right. Important safety tip. Thanks, Egon.
Early in my career I was assigned to an SAP implementation project and received a task to create a financial statement. I was given a printout of a report from the legacy system and given the requirement of “Create this report in SAP.” No explanation of which accounts go with particular lines, no explanation of report parameters, and no explanation of how the math was to work.
Back in the day these reports were written using SAP’s proprietary programming language, ABAP, which was similar to COBOL. Getting the right business logic was the big challenge and getting the formatting to line up properly was tedious. I thought I had done really well figuring out the business logic and was proud that I had done so on my own with the bare-bones requirements. The tedium of doing the formatting was all that was left, and before doing that I wanted confirm I had the business logic correct. I passed the report on to the user in the Finance department with the request that he confirm the numbers were right.
What I received back was a marked-up report showing the formatting problems. This user wanted a double-underline before the grand-total and the numbers needed to be preceded by dollar signs. There was no review of the actual figures. It was frustrating to receive the report back with that feedback and a waste of time given it did not add any value to the project task.
At the time, I thought this user had performed an a-hole move that was really an avoidance of having to do any real work. Looking back on it, there was a lesson to be learned — aesthetics can be a roadblock to a meaningful conversation. Research has shown that first impressions are made within the first seven seconds. If those seven seconds are spent trying to decipher something, then the impression is that the work is shoddy.
Consider these two process maps that convey the same business logic:
The process on the left is difficult to follow with all the crossed lines, loops, different fonts, and unnecessary shapes. Logically it makes sense, but there is some significant mental capital that is spent trying to understand it. By the time the reader figures out how to follow the logic, they are not focused on the outcome of the process. The streams are crossed, which is bad.
The process flow on the right eliminates confusion by avoiding the crossed lines, having a simple left-to-right flow, and a limited set of symbols to follow. It looks like someone put some care and effort into developing it. With that attention paid to the format, surely the creator paid attention to the business logic. No need to worry about every molecule in your body exploding at the speed of light.
Van Halen always had a clause in their contract rider that promoters must provide a bowl of M&Ms containing absolutely no brown ones. At the time many people thought that was some ridiculous request included as a joke. The real reason for it was that it was a quick indicator that the promoter had thoroughly read the contract. Failure to eliminate the brown M&M’s and there is a good chance the promoter failed to address the electrical requirements for the complex lighting system, which could cause significant safety issues.
People will use the superficial aspects of a work product as the initial indicator that the care has been put into the part that really matters. This may not always be a conscious decision, but it does create biases in our minds. There will always be times where we share rough work product with a close team member, but that should be with someone where the right working relationship has been developed. Work presented to a customer or management should be presented in polished format that shows you have taken pride in all aspects of the work. The process flow streams should not be crossed. | fineweb_edu |
Cannot believe one year passed since I wrote this on SMH half marathon 2016: Getting subconscious mind under control talking about mind challenges I went through last year. I had it better under controlled, while observing what I was missing to get better at running the race next time.
As the followers of my facebook page should know I was aiming to improve my PB at this half marathon race to be sub 90 min and here you go I just made it:
Official site 1:29:17
I was stuck at 94min time at this race for the past two years that I picked it up and to name what made the change since last year to this one I would say:
- Better application of Pose running on uphills and downhills (technique)
- Better plan/program to follow that did not wear me out prior to the race
These days my post-race favourite conversation is that my lower legs are not sore at all. The only sore parts are quads which either inevitably get sore or that is the room to improve for next year. Soreness is caused by intensive eccentric contractions. Absorbing shock with knees at landing time can cause this, mainly at downhills. My anecdote on soreness is if an eccentric contraction is immediately followed by a concentric one the soreness is likely to be severe. For instance if you toe-push off the ground after landing, your calf muscles get too sore. If you do not push off, they may not even get sore. The reason my quads are sore is vertical push – adjusting height – happens automatically and quads have an important role in doing so. Besides, running up hills take certainly needs gaining heights and this race course is known for being hilly.
When I finished the race I joined the stand of the charity organisation that I support at this race: Running for Premature Babies. They have been extremely successful at attracting runners to join their charity (this year they had 500 runners) and managed to raise more than $300,000. At the stand I met a runner whose PB was 83min made in 2016 however although he had done the same amount of training he ended up in 86min this year. He wondered why and the only thing I had to say was, well, sometimes it is not all about training.
Again talking about the usual missing part of most recreational runners’ training program: techniques. Public understanding of running is not efficient for serious running. Here is where a particular way of running as a skill works much better than the second nature everyone knows about.
One funny thing happened after the race, I also wear a Garmin wearable, vivo smart, for heart rate and other activity tracking. I wore that during the race but when I got into the car to go back home it vibrated telling me “Move!”. Funny, but not a good news for the manufacturer, huh?!
Insights to Share
Taking a look at my own tracking reveals an interesting insight that am going to share with you here.
Very high heart rate at the beginning
Some people run the first half of the race faster than the second one. I am one of them. Not saying this is the best way of running a race. Maybe I have to revise this strategy going forward, I do not know and I have not made my mind about it. I fell off almost one KM in the second half of the race but maybe I had saved a lot of seconds by running fast in the first part so I could rest a bit in the hardest part? Anyway, let’s leave that for now. I should write something about it later once I have done my homework.
Running the first split of the course faster resulted in my heart rate to go higher than what I expected. It was surprising to see it reached 204 whereas my record of every Max heart rate test I had done before the race, or any hard speed training I had pushed myself in to my max effort, was that my Max HR is around 185 bpm. Going up by 19bpm only means I burned a lot of carbs during that part of the race which makes sense because I started feeling low energy from kilometer 10 where I started taking gels. That feeling low is due to low blood sugar that feeds the brain. Go find videos on Youtube of people who get dizzy from pushing too hard. Apparently it is a terrible thing because some say they really feel they were going to die!
Room for Improvement for 2018
Looking at my splits (per km) I fell off my goal pace at 7 splits, meaning if I can improve my hill running to maintain the same goal pace I should be able to shave another 2min off my PB.
I ran in zone 4 most of the time
If my Max HR is 204, given my resting HR is 55, my HR zones are:
Zone 1: 129-144 (50%-60% Max HR)
Zone 2: 144-159 (60%-70% Max HR)
Zone 3: 159-174 (70%-80% Max HR)
Zone 4: 174-189 (80%-90% Max HR)
Zone 5: 189-204 (90%-100% Max HR)
It is recommended to run races mostly in Zone 3. You can see at the end of the race that I am depleted of carbs my HR goes to highs of zone 3 and before that it is at the lows and highs of zone 4. Relying too much on burning carbs meaning I cannot do it again without taking gels. Good or bad, I do not know. It is subjective.
Please note that I had a sugary toast in the morning and that is where the required carbs were sourced in the first half of the race, as well as the reserve of carbs in the muscles; the one that is fueled with the so-called carb loading before the race.
Hope you find this post useful. Please feel free to contact me on facebook or on my email: [email protected] for any question or discussion. | fineweb_edu |
Second World War
But back to the event in Portugal. The appearance in the skies of the Queen of Heaven (Mary) near the village of Fatima for the Nimrod could only mean one thing – a vaccine against the virus of Darkness "was found. Nimrod was well aware of what it threatening to those who advocate and is the distributor of "Virus of Darkness" and what retribution might expect it, because it went against the Overmind (God). Peter Schiff recognizes the significance of this. But Nimrod also understands that affect the arrival of light forces, he can not, and he had no choice but to continue to fight with Satan, who can first, before the arrival of light forces, to destroy Nimrod. Without waiting for the moment when Satan will gather enough strength to destroy Nimrod, Nimrod the first attack without declaring war on Satan. Thus begins the Second World War, the winner of which, after hard fighting again out Satan.
After the defeat of the power of Nimrod greatly weakened, and he at a time, relying on his loyal people in Rome, trying to control only the remnants scattered throughout the world the Catholic Church. On the complete defeat of Nimrod saves archangel Laodicea Church (USA), and that's why he does it, it becomes clear after reading what is written about him on. Satan is after the defeat of Nimrod is celebrating his latest victory, but suddenly faces a new challenge for myself. This creates a problem for Satan the angel of Laodicea Church (USA), whose interests are at the moment is the U.S. | dclm_edu |
American Flags near Blair.
Made in the USA!
The American flag is a strong symbol of American identification and national pride. Additionally called Old Glory, the American flag has a colorful history and has actually undergone several adjustments starting from the first official flag of 1777.
Today the American flag includes thirteen horizontal stripes, seven red rotating with six white stripes. The stripes represent the initial 13 colonies; the stars represent the 50 states of the country. The shades of the flag are symbolic too: red symbolizes hardiness as well as valor, white signifies purity and virtue and also blue stands for vigilance, determination and also justice. The factor the Continental Congress originally chose the red, white, and blue colors was not made clear in the resolution adopting the flag. Historians think it was probably a color option based on the British Union Jack, which had formerly flown over the colonies.
In time, some have connected a little various significances to the three shades, for example, the shade red representing the blood spilled to maintain our freedoms, however the essence of the original significance has been rather constant from 1782.
How did the American flag grow into what it is today?
It is so much greater than the 3 shades or a “decor”. Think about the places around the globe that the American flag has actually flown, think about the change it has gone through throughout the years on American land. It is really humbling to consider all that was offered and also compromised so that the American flag can fly easily throughout this country.
The flag that started with only 13 stars expanded to 50 with the addition of states to the Union. The variety of stars on the flag gradually increased to its existing number today wherein a new star would certainly be included in the blue area on the 4th of July after the day of each new state’s admission.
The variety of alternating straight red and also white stripes has continued to be at thirteen except from 1795 to 1818 when fifteen stripes appeared on the flag to show the admission of Kentucky and Vermont to the Union. In 1818, it was determined that including a stripe to the flag for each brand-new state would certainly no longer occur as it will make the flag appear crowded and it would certainly make the flag unwieldy. It was determined then that the flag would certainly go back to having only thirteen stripes to represent the initial colonies.
The American flag is a sign not only of hardiness, valiance, pureness, virtue, vigilance, willpower as well as justice; it is a sign of liberty. Liberty that has actually been fought so hard for over the years. Liberty that has cost this country as well as the families within so much, but it is still a beacon to those wishing they had the freedom that the nation has.
Folding the American flag.
Typical flag rules prescribes that prior to an American flag is kept or raised, its handlers should twice fold it in half lengthwise; then (from the end opposite the blue area) make a triangular fold, continuously fold it in triangles until the other end is reached. This makes a triangular “cushion” of the flag with only heaven starred field showing on the outside, as well as it takes thirteen folds to generate: two lengthwise folds as well as eleven triangular ones.
The flag isn’t folded up in this manner due to the fact that each of the folds has a special symbolic significance; the flag is folded this way due to the fact that it provides a dignified ritualistic touch that distinguishes folding a flag from folding an ordinary thing such as a blanket, as well as since it results an aesthetically pleasing, easy-to-handle form. This thirteen-fold treatment was a common technique long prior to the development of a ceremonial assignation of “suggesting” per of the steps.
An elaborate flag folding ceremony incorporating these definitions has actually from then on been devised for unique celebrations such as Memorial Day as well as Veterans Day. These meanings are “genuine” in the feeling that they indicate something to individuals that participate in the event, but they are not the reason why a flag is folded in the conventional thirteen-step fashion.
This is America as well as its sign is the American Flag. This respectable icon has been targetted at, burned, spew on and stomped on, but she rises over and over. Although several Americans in South Carolina happily fly the flag outside their homes and businesses everyday, it is fitting that we, as a nation, have set aside one certain day yearly to recognize our flag as well as to bear in mind that it represents the beliefs as well as values that we should aim to support. May God honor America and also those that safeguard her.
Blair ZIP codes we serve: 29015 | fineweb_edu |
Skip to main contentSkip to navigation
Did Nasa fund 'civilisation collapse' study, or not?
Douglas Gordon: The End of Civilisation - video
Douglas Gordon: The End of Civilisation Photograph:
Douglas Gordon: The End of Civilisation Photograph:
Environmental journalism's watchdog strikes
Blogger Keith Kloor, who writes for Discover magazine, claims that my article on a Nasa-funded study modelling civilisational collapse scenarios is so inaccurate that it constitutes "a sad commentary on journalism today." The actual study, he claims, had no connection to Nasa whatsoever. Rather, I "disingenously hyped" the paper "as being 'Nasa-sponsored'", when in fact, it simply wasn't.
Thus, the story which I "thought of as a big scoop", says Kloor, "wouldn't pass Journalism 101."
Kloor then goes on to take, essentially, the entire "herd-like media coverage" of the story to task for repeating the story in a "similarly sensationalist" fashion.
Sadly, Kloor's misguided response is consistent with his axiomatic rejection of what he calls 'misguided eco-doomers' (which apparently includes anyone who says that business-as-usual could have disastrous consequences for the environment).
The Nasa deception that wasn't
At first glance, Kloor's evidence for insinuating that the study led by applied mathematician Safa Motesharrei had no connection to Nasa seems clear-cut. He cites an official statement put out earlier today by the space agency saying that the study "was not solicited, directed or reviewed by Nasa. It is an independent study by the university researchers utilizing research tools developed for a separate Nasa activity. As is the case with all independent research, the views and conclusions in the paper are those of the authors alone. Nasa does not endorse the paper or its conclusions."
Clear-cut? Perhaps not.
Nasa's funding for the very research behind the study is explicitly acknowledged in the paper, which is now available online here (p. 23):
"This work was partially funded through NASA/GSFC [Goddard Space Flight Center] grant NNX12AD03A."
And the US National Socio-Environmental Synthesis Center (Sesync) where the lead author carried out his research for the project issued an official clarification about the study yesterday as follows, confirming the same:
"Motesharrei received minor support from NASA to develop a coupled earth system model. Some of this funding was spent on the mathematical development of the HANDY model."
Indeed, the authors of the paper fully agreed with the accuracy of my characterisation of the study as being "Nasa-funded" or "sponsored." It comes down to a simple question really. Was the HANDY model funded by NASA? The answer is yes, even if the conclusions of the study do not represent the views of the space agency.
Indeed, it's standard practice for independent research to be funded or sponsored by external agencies or bodies without them necessarily endorsing or agreeing with the findings of that research.
So who is being "deceptive" here, to use Kloor's word?
To be fair, much of the media reporting following my story blurred simple nuances even further. "Nasa-funded study" became "Nasa study"; a mathematical model exploring a range of hypothetical scenarios was depicted as stating unequivocally that "society is doomed", "the end is nigh", and "western civilisation is heading for collapse."
But pretending that the Human and Nature DYnamical (HANDY) model was not funded by a Nasa grant to the lead author is hardly honest.
The 'collapse' that wasn't?
Kloor then follows up with a further post attempting to dissect the actual study. Now this I don't have a particular problem with as such - nothing wrong with disagreeing with a study on the basis of reasonable contrary evidence.
The problem is that after making a big hullabaloo about my presentation of the arguments and findings of the study 'as is', Kloor proceeds to harness as many experts as he can to rubbish the study. Curiously, he can find not a single scientist or scholar who found the study useful, worthwhile, or bearing some validity worth further research.
For instance, another anthropologist and complex society expert, Prof Adam T. Smith of Cornell University, said that the HANDY model's central thesis - that a collapse of industrial civilisation due to unsustainable resource exploitation and increasing economic inequality - is perfectly plausible:
"The archaeological record is quite unambiguous: every prior society in every part of the world has ultimately been eclipsed. Human communities are kinds of machines – machines for social life – and just like any machine they fall apart and are discarded. However, civilisational collapse is actually quite rare.
Civilisational collapse typically involves the disappearance of entire ways of life, systems of thought, cultural values and worldviews. These generally do not disappear due to convulsive periods of collapse but rather fade over time as alternative systems of belief take their place.
However, although civilisational collapse is rare, political collapse is constant. Kingdoms, principalities, republics and states come and go and typically their downfall is violent and convulsive. The warnings in the recent study should carry significant warnings to current global political leaders: address the threats posed by climate change and economic inequality or face the rapid undoing of the current political order. The archaeological record suggests that while civilization will likely endure, politics as we know it, odds are, will not."
Number games
What about the HANDY model itself? Is it too simplistic? Kloor's modelling expert turns out to be an obscure student in Mathematical Ecology specialising in the modelling of Plankton, who pooh-poohs the study as oversimplistic as it has only four equations. But this simply misses the point.
An academic conference paper on the HANDY model by a cross-disciplinary team of natural and social scientists led by Dr Rodrigo Castro of the Department of Environmental Systems Science at ETH Zurich, Switzerland, delivered earlier this month, explains in detail why the HANDY model is so useful:
"It is our predicament that we live in a finite world, and yet we behave as if it were infinite. Steady exponential material growth with no limits on resource consumption and population is the dominant conceptual model used by today's decision makers. This is an approximation of reality that is no longer accurate and started to break down. The World3 model, originally developed in the 1970s [aka the 'Limits to Growth' project which despite Kloor's dismissals has turned out quite accurate according to American Scientist], includes many rather detailed aspects of human society and its interaction with a resource limited planet. However, World3 is a rather complex model. Therefore it is valuable for pedagogical reasons to show how similar behavior can be also realized with models that are much simpler. This paper presents a series of world models, starting with very simple exponential growth and predator-prey systems, then investigates a minimal human-nature model, Handy, and ends with a brief account of the World3 model. For the first time, a simple human-nature interaction model is made available in Modelica that distinguishes between dynamics of Elite and Commoner social groups. It is shown that Handy can reproduce rather complex behavior with a very simple model structure, as compared to that of world models like World3."
The HANDY model's utility, in other words, is precisely its ability to reproduce complex behaviour despite a simple model structure. Its most unique feature is described as follows:
"An interesting feature of Handy is that it introduces the accumulation of economic wealth, and divides the human population into rich and poor according to their unequal access to available wealth...
Social inequality is not only explicitly considered but also plays a key role in the sustainability analyses of the model. This makes Handy the first model of its kind that studies the impacts of inequality on the fate of societies, a capability seldom found even in complex world models.
Handy establishes a useful general framework that allows carrying out 'thought experiments' about societal collapse scenarios and the changes that might avoid them.
The model is a very strong simplification of the human-nature system, which results in many limitations. Despite its simplicity, such a model is easy to understand and offers a more intuitive grasp of underlying dynamical phenomena compared to more complex and less aggregated models."
It is precisely this unique feature which enabled the HANDY model to depart from the work of Tainter to explore the potential instabilities of the rampant inequality in today's global economy.
The Kloor effect
Kloor has had curious run-ins with other journalists. Joe Romm, the physicist and founding editor of the renowned Climate Progress blog, didn't have much great to say about Kloor's brand of journalism - which Romm, rightly or wrongly, characterised as "trash." Harsh? For one thing, Kloor is a leading cheerleader for genetically modified (GM) foods, and routinely argues that the science on GM is firmly settled in its favour (while systematically ignoring credible scientists who disagree).
Rather than upholding journalistic standards, Kloor ends up muddying them while promoting the happy vision of a world without 'eco-doom.' Hence his reasons perhaps for characterising me as a "doomsday prophet" in a post last year.
Sadly, Kloor's journalistic rigour apparently somehow failed to involve bothering to read either my book or my numerous observations over the years on the grounds for long-term optimism.
Unfortunately for Kloor, a world without his dreaded 'eco doom' is unlikely to transpire without the sort of change of course that he finds so unpalatable.
I close with the conclusions of Dr Rodrigo Castro's paper on the HANDY model:
"Although models presented in this paper are from different classes (minimal Handy vs. more complex, realistic world model, World3), their conclusions are similar. In the long run, not so far into the future, humanity must change to living sustainably on planet Earth. This change can occur either as a planned gradual transition, preserving well-functioning societies, or as a more disruptive, unplanned transition resulting in a less pleasant society with a reduced ecological capacity."
• This article was amended on 22 March 2014 to focus more on the inaccuracies in Keith Kloor's blog posts.
Most viewed
Most viewed | dclm_edu |
File RFA24.ZIP from The Programmer’s Corner in
Category Financial and Statistics
Resident Floating Point Scientific Calculator.
File Name File Size Zip Size Zip Type
FCA.DOC 49098 15555 deflated
FCA.EXE 34758 19239 deflated
## Contents of the FCA.DOC file
FCA 2.4
Resident Floating Point Scientific Calculator
by
Bob Eyer
[73230,2620]
May 10, 1992
SHAREWARE NOTICE and TERMS
The content of this archive is shareware: if you think it's a
contribution to the author. In return for your contribution you
will receive the most recent updates of the items mentioned in the
list below.
Simply purchase a money order from your bank in the amount of \$20
Bob Eyer
1100 Bloor Street West
Suite 16
3.5" diskette format, and state the name in which you wish
registration-only utilities to be registered.
Do not send checks. Checks cause problems across international
borders which make them unsuitable for small purchases by mail
order. Checks will be returned with your order unfilled.
Enquiries may be placed by writing directly to the author via
Easyplex at Compuserve [73230,2620].
Warranty and Disclaimer:
-----------------------
The author, Bob Eyer, of this and all items below guarantees the
physical integrity of the diskette covering the points above, and
will replace free of charge, if it is received defective.
However, in no case will the author be responsible for any damages
due to loss of data or any other reason. In no event does the
author's liability for any damages exceed the price paid for the
buyer's order of this software, regardless of the form of the
claim. The person using the software bears all risk as to the
quality and performance of the software.
--------------------------------------------------------------
The items listed below, except the ones with asterisk in the left
margin, are registered to you personally. As personally
registered to you, these particular copies may not be distributed
without the author's consent. Names of programs falling into this
category are all versions of MG, versions of SPC after SPC 5.4,
all versions of HOST, CA, and FCA. These programs may be freely
circulated only in their 'shareware' form. Versions of these
programs which are personally registered to the user must not be
so circulated. When you place an order by making your shareware
contribution under these terms, you are agreeing to abide by this
principle.
The asterisked items mentioned below are in fact collections of
new versions of Eyer utilities, most of the older versions of
which were posted separately. They have been combined into
packages in order to simplify processing orders at this end.
MG 3.0
------
Moving average ASCII graphing program. Especially designed for
obtaining graphic updates on stock-market activity in practical
trading environments, in which it is essential that the user get a
quick graph immediately, with points of the graph directly
associated with the numerical and other text information which
these points represent (a feat impractical in Lotus graphics).
Designed to be used with SETV in the SUTL package.
SPC 5.5
-------
Multidrive columnar drive report, with fairly complete description
of your machine including communications, important chips,
printer, BIOS, memory, processor and coprocessor speed,
multitasking, networking, and so on, all in one single snapshot.
New version doubles the amount of information on each
communications port and displays the information in columnar mode
as a new P parameter to pause the PRINT multiplexer, when it is
used to feed data to your printer. (DOS PRINT lacks a pause
command).
HOST 2.4
--------
Provides a simple BBS host for occasional use. Fully
configurable, but capable of being run 'right out of the box',
HOST provides ringback, file transfer, mail, chat, userlog, shell,
and much more - in an executable only 30K in size. Version 2.4
adds options to limit medium speed noise filtering, and
facilities for reading in the user's own list of file protocols.
CA 2.4
------
7-function fixed point TSR calculator with formatted displays and
scientific notation for direct paste to text. Also has
accumulator. Four mode groups. About 13K of memory.
FCA 2.4
-------
Memory resident calculator with formatted displays and direct
paste to text, minimum screen overlay. 29 functions, including
trig, factorials & combinations, mean & standard deviation,
regression analysis, binomial, Poisson, normal, and Student
distributions. Six mode groups. FCA is the most sophisticated
calculator in the business for its size. 39K of memory.
* FUTL 2.0
--------
A collection of file processing utilities including -
CHG 2.8 - File/directory attribute/date/time reader/changer
ELIM 2.6 - Replacement for DOS DEL
FVER 2.1 - BBS file list verifier - automatic, redirectable
MV 2.8 - File mover, large improvement over MV 2.6.
OTL 3.0 - Operation to List, generalisation of MVA, for BBSes
RNF 2.2 - Puts special flags on filenames
SWP 2.0 - Single level sweep program, faster than SWEEP.COM
TYME 2.3 - Program execution timer
WD 2.6 - Applies wildcard to any program
Each is the best and smallest in the business for what it does.
* SUTL 2.2
--------
A collection of small utilities covering batch file, diagnostic,
communications analysis, file, video, and other areas, including
AL, CFIX, DOSV, DTR, EL, EMS, KALL, LF, PAUZ, PF, PORT, RING, RTS,
SETV, SS, and TSTF. Includes a number of very useful memory
resident programs, such as AL(alarm) and PORT(analyser). Colour
fix for SS, some new programs such as a very small keystroke
counter.
* TUTL 2.1
--------
A collection of text-processing utilities, including ADD, CBRO,
CITM, COMB, DIV, ESRT, LCNT, REV, and SPLT. Except for LCNT (a
very fast wildcarded text linecounter), these programs cover
important ground in text processing for which there exists no
other alternative in the shareware market. Users who do much
work with ASCII text should not be without these utilities.
WARNING: THIS SOFTWARE MAY NOT WORK PROPERLY WITH CERTAIN
APPLICATIONS. SEE CAUTION BELOW.
Help screen
-----------
Syntax: FCA [/U] Hotkey: Rightshift-/
TWO/NAP/TEN STUF/D DMS/NODMS
Review: ST
Registers: E PI A B C F K L M N Q R S X Y Z
Data entry areas: MEAN REGRESSION (Use Esc to paste result)
Binary operations: + - * / ^ CO PE
Unary operations: SQ SQRT EXP LOG SIN ASN
COS ACS TAN ATN SINH COSH TANH ! X= Y=
Probability fcns: BIN NORM POIS STUD
See the note about Errors below.
Changes since CAF 2.3
---------------------
- Operation symbols for combinations and permutations changed to
CO and PE from C and P respectively, to prevent conflict with
data registers.
- Second extra register Y added for calculation purposes. May now
set Y = C just as X = C.
- Meaning of certain registers changed to accommodate syntax used
in new probability routines. The slope of a regression line is
now L, not M. M is used to store means and is shared amongst
several routines. See detailed discussions below.
- Binomial, Poisson, Normal, and Student t probability functions,
See sections below about these new functions.
- Further development of FCA's error recovery system.
Changes since CAF 2.0
---------------------
- Much better input editor, allowing use of Esc key to exit; no
more jerky cursor action.
into MEAN chiefly to save space. New display prompts put
results to the left the prompt.
- C added to binary functions - number of combinations of n things
taken r at a time. The math notation 'nCr' is somewhat modified
as 'a C b'.
- P added to binary functions - number of permutations, same
type of syntax as for combinations.
- ! added to unary functions - the factorial function. As for
all other unary functions, the function name MUST precede its
argument, and be separated by a blank. Thus the math notation
'10!' reads in CAF as '! 10'.
- MEAN area added - enables user to find the total, mean and
standard deviation of a list of numbers. Reserved for
registered users only.
- REGRESSION area added - enables user to find the correlation
coefficient of a series of paired data. Also computes the least
square regression line and other data for this series.
Registered users only.
- New registers for direct readout or paste: K (the y-intercept of
the regression line), M (the slope), N (the number of data in
the supplied scatter of points), R (the correlation
coefficient), S (the standard deviation for the MEAN).
- New storage register X, for saving old results for re-entry into
subsequent calculations.
- Introduces DMS format ('degree-minute-second') for trig
functions. Default is No DMS (NODMS). Where DMS is set, CAF
treats the first two digits following the decimal point of
angles as the number of minutes, and the next four digits as
seconds correct to the nearest hundredth of a second. Only
works when DEG (degree) mode is set, and only on the trig
functions and their inverses.
- The PLACES mode is simplified so that the mere entry of a single
digit number causes CAF to change the number of places.
Formerly, the user had to type 'x PLACES' to get it to recognise
x as the number of places. Entry of the number of places now
affects all displayed numbers, as well as all those which are
pasted to the underlying application. In the MEAN and
REGRESSION areas, however, results are formatted to a minimum of
3 places within those areas unless places is set higher than 3.
If set to 0, results rounded to 3 places in the area windows
will appear to maximum precision on exit from those windows.
- The N/D modes are now changed to STUF/D. The reason is to avoid
conflict with the N register readout for the number of pairs of
data entered in the MEAN and REGRESSION areas.
- Extends to all unary functions the same coverage of register
input as applies to binary functions.
INTRODUCTORY NOTE: FCA is a floating point companion alternative
to CA (see program listing in Shareware Notice above), which is
restricted to four function fixed point arithmetic. FCA supports
29 functions. Registered versions of CA use about 12K of memory;
FCA uses about 40K. This is comparable to some of the simpler
floating point calculators, such as FFC, but, unlike these (which
are usually restricted to the standard four arithmetic functions),
FCA currently offers 29 functions.
FCA is not a general formula evaluator. If you need to do many
different kinds of calculations on the same text in one shot, it
may be more appropriate to use Lotus 1-2-3 or similar, print
results as a file, edit, and then insert into your text. FCA,
however, does provide a simple means of re-using input data for
subsequent calculations (see section below about Automatic
Store/Recall and also the discussion about register operations).
Also, FCA provides a method of adding many numbers before
injecting the sum to text (See Special Accumulator section below).
FCA's floating point emulator will take advantage of the
coprocessor, if one is installed. This advantage is noticeable
primarily with regard to the probability functions. The slowest
and least accurate function is the Student probability integral,
which may require up to 8 seconds and beyond to find results
arising from certain rare combinations of input variables on a 386
machine WITH installed 80387. This function works up to 60 times
more slowly when run on a machine lacking a coprocessor. While
the transcendentals generally have an accuracy of the order of 12
decimal places, the Student is generally accurate to only 5. See
FCA's real number range, apart from sign, is roughly between
1e-294 and 1.7e+308. This is much larger than is possible in the
companion program CA, and is also larger than the usual range for
many scientific calculators.
IMPORTANT: This program does not provide a menu or picture of a
calculator - so as to avoid obscuring portions of the underlying
editing application, and to avoid requiring the user to employ
only 25 x 80 screens (some TSR calculators require this, to make
use of Line 25 for calculator monitoring). FCA responds equally
well in 50 x 80 or 44 x 132 video environments; generally, it is
indifferent to the manner in which the video raster is defined.
FCA is designed to respond just to the hotkey, which provides
merely a 'calculation window', in which the user enters his
calculations or mode changes. Hitting ENTER after supplying a
calculation or mode change to the window, simply executes the job
and returns to the application. Where a result is generated, it
is pasted directly to the underlying application where the cursor
was last located.
In examples seen below, EACH calculation or mode change is
preceded by invoking the hotkey. This, however, does not apply to
special areas dealing with more complex problems, such as MEAN and
REGRESSION.
FCA is also designed to return the cursor to the initial position
in the main calculation window, to permit making mode adjustments
without line skipping. Once a task is completed, you may exit the
window merely by hitting ENTER one additional time or by using the
spacebar to delete the window. The old window always disappears
in an editing environment after the result is injected to the
text, but mode change information will, in general, remain.
Modes/review
------------
FCA provides 6 groups of mode selections - number of decimal
places to which to round results, colour of calculation window,
whether to use Radian or Degree measure, what base to use for the
EXP and LOG operations, whether to echo the result to display or
paste to text, and whether to use DMS format in trig calculations.
The current mode situation may be viewed simply by entering ST in
the calculation window (ST is short for 'status').
Mode changes are entered directly in the calculation window and
the new mode specs are resummarised in the calculation window,
just as though ST had been issued.
x
Entry of 5 in the calculation window will cause FCA to operate so
as to round all results to five decimal places. Entry of 0 means
that no formatting will occur. The default value is 0.
COLOR y:
Entry of 'COLOR 30' will cause the calculation window to have a
bright yellow foreground and a blue background. For colour
details see below. The default colour scheme is black on white
(112). Color 0 automatically converts to 112, so as to avoid
black on black.
Entry of RAD in the window causes FCA to assume all angles entered
as arguments in trig functions are in radian measure. Entry of
DEG puts FCA into Degree mode. The default is Degree mode.
TWO/NAP/TEN:
FCA supports three bases for use with the LOG or EXP functions.
TWO means Base 2; NAP is short for the Napierian base (2.718 ...)
and means Base e; and TEN means Base 10. The default is Base e.
STUF/D:
STUF means normal (stuff the result to the underlying
application), and D means display (that is, display at TSR video
level). STUF is the default. STUF mode injects results to the
underlying application; display mode echoes results to the screen
without pasting to the application at all.
Register operations
-------------------
FCA supports pasting 11 registers direct to text. For example,
after invoking the hotkey, we simply enter
e [= 2.7182818284590
(the use of the left bracket here merely signifies that the result
appears at the underlying application, not at TSR level)
In addition, the user may simply enter A, B, or C to examine the
last value stored in FCA's "store/recall" facilities (see
below), as well as the general storage register X, and the
statistics registers.
Binary operations
-----------------
FCA supports seven two-variable ('binary') operations: + - * / ^ C
P, or add, subtract, multiply, divide, raise to a power,
combinations and permutations, respectively. For example,
1991-1917 [= 74
7e-6+3e-4 [= 0.000307
3.33e+1+4.56e-3 [= 33.30456
When entering exponentially formatted numbers one must specify a
sign (+ or -) immediately after the 'e' symbol.
35/34 [= 1.0294117647058
35*34 [= 1190
35^34 [= 3.1500214e+52
10 CO 4 [= 210 (210 combinations of 10 things
taken 4 at a time)
Unary operations
----------------
FCA also supports 10 unary transcendental functions, grouped by
inverses, as well as three hyperbolic functions, and the factorial
function. Here, a blank must separate the name of the operation
and the number which the operation takes as its argument.
Examples,
! 6 [= 720 (factorial 6)
SIN 45 [= 0.7071067811865
COS 1 [= 0.9998476951563
LOG 2 [= 0.6931471805599
EXP 1 [= 2.7182818284590
SQRT 2 [= 1.4142135623731
If you wish to use Base 10 logarithms, just enter TEN in the
window, and then
LOG 2 [= 0.3010299956639
Note: the EXP function is in fact an antilog function, since it is
subject to the same range of base changes as is the LOG function.
This may be inconvenient to some users who assume that the
exponential function must always have base e, but implementing a
separate antilog function seemed, in the circumstances, merely to
be useless duplication of what is, essentially, a quite flexible
function.
The internal setup for the hyperbolic functions is the same as for
the trig functions. If you select DEGree mode, FCA will convert
the function. If you select RADian mode, FCA will do no such
conversion, but will inject your argument directly to the
function.
Automatic store/recall
----------------------
If you are doing several calculations which involve use of the
same term, you may reduce typing further by using variables.
Calculation window variables are A, B, and C. The first time
you execute a calculation with numbers, the first number is
always stored into A, the second number into B, and the result
into C. These values can be re-used, simply by employing these
variables in subsequent calculations [except, of course, for the
fact that, as each new calculation is done, the value of C will
be updated with the new result].
Example (after entering 3 in the window):
Suppose we wish to perform the following calculations -
34.21102 x 435, and
34.21102 / 355.5
Here, each calculation uses the same initial term. We proceed
as follows, each time by hitting Rightshift-slash, and entering
the calculation shown:
34.21102 * 435 [= 1.488e+4
a/355.5 [= 9.623e-2
The second calculation above could be repeated merely by entering
a/b
The user may also proceed to obtain results for the other three
operations, using the same numbers, as follows:
a*b [= 12162.018
a+b [= 389.711
a-b [= -321.289
The output C-variable can also be used in calculations. For
example, we may first calculate with no scientific notation
2/3 [= 0.667 ]
Here, A = 2, B = 3, and C is the result in brackets. Now, if we
multiply the result C by 3, we should get back the numerator A:
C * 3 [= 2.000
This example illustrates the fact that FCA, like handheld
calculators with the store/recall function, stores results in a
separate register before rounding. It is this separate register
that is used for input, when the user employs C in a
calculation. [otherwise, the user might get back 2.001].
This type of 'result protection' on use of a previous result is
not, however, found in most TSR calculators.
All these remarks apply also to FCA's trig functions. For
example (using 5 decimal places),
SIN 89 [= 0.99985
We may now get back the value of the argument, simply by
performing the inverse (ARCSINE or ASN) on the result:
ASN C [= 89.00000
The same principle also works with squares and squareroots, as
well as logs and exponentials. For example,
LOG 2 [= 0.69315
but the argument '2' may be had by performing the inverse on the
result:
EXP C [= 2.00000
You may also store a previous input or result into either of the
extra storage registers X or Y. Just use, for example,
X= C or Y = B
to store the value of C into X or B into Y. Note that FCA is
indifferent on whether the entry formula is 'X=C' or 'X = C'. X
may be recalled simply by entering X by itself, or by using it as
an argument in any function.
MEAN (Total, Mean and Standard deviation)
-----------------------------------------
Entry of the keyword MEAN in the calculation window will
transfer control to a special area of FCA which displays the
following type of prompt:
X>
Numbers entered at this prompt are totalled and in passing FCA
also computes the mean and standard deviation for all numbers
entered, displaying these results in the stated order to the left
of the prompt.
If the next number in the series is the same as the previous one,
you may simply enter X at the prompt; FCA interprets X in the MEAN
window as the value last entered. The same principle applies
where the user wishes merely add the previous total to itself: use
the result register C.
The data displayed to the left of the prompt are displayed as
rounded to a minimum of 3 places.
When finished entering data, simply hit the Esc key to paste the
Total to the underlying application. The other data are available
by entering the following variable names:
C - Total
M - Mean
S - Standard deviation
N - Number of data entered.
F - Degrees of freedom (for MEAN calculations this will be
N - 1).
The main result, the total, may be accessed by using register C.
The values listed above may be used, for example, in the Normal
distribution to obtain automatic calculation of a z-score (see
below).
For the interest of statistics people, the definition of standard
deviation used in FCA assumes the "n - 1" basis. That is, it is
based on multiplying the the root mean square of the data by the
square root of the ratio of N to N - 1. The purpose of the n-1
basis is to obtain a more realistic value for the standard
deviation in small sample applications than is possible with a
mere variance calculation.
The value of this routine is primarily to obtain quick results on
small amounts of data found directly on the screen in the
underlying application. If you have a large job to do, involving
many points, your best bet is to use a large program such as LOTUS
1-2-3, not a small program like FCA.
MEAN is available only to registered users.
REGRESSION (regression analysis)
--------------------------------
Entry of the keyword REGRESSION in the calculation window will
transfer control to the REGRESSION area of FCA.
Here, the prompt will change between
X>
and
Y>
and FCA will issue a beep to the speaker each time a Y value is
entered. Three running results are displayed to the left of the
prompt: The correlation coefficient, the y-intercept of the
regression line, and the slope of that line. The previous value
of X may be entered at either prompt by using X, and the previous
value of Y may be entered at either prompt by using Y. If you
enter C (the result register) the current correlation coefficient
will be entered at the prompt in question. Avoid, unless you
really want to do that.
But otherwise, operation of the REGRESSION area is similar to
that in MEAN.
On use of Esc to exit, FCA will paste the correlation
coefficient to the underlying application. To paste the
y-intercept, use K; and to paste the slope, use L. The
regression line has the standard form,
Y = K + LX
As usual, N is the number of pairs of data entered in the
REGRESSION window. The correlation coefficient may be obtained by
entering R.
F is also calculated by FCA, and in the REGRESSION window, will
always be set to N - 2.
REGRESSION is available only to registered users.
BIN
---
This function returns the cumulative binomial probability of the
occurrence of X or fewer events in a sample of size N, where the
probability of a single event is Q, as well as the point
probability in register Y. The syntax is
BIN X N Q
corresponding to the summation of all values of the binomial
frequency distribution for occurrences ranging between 0 and X.
Taking an example from Spiegel's Statistics (Schaum Outline
Series, p 127), find the probability that at most 2 bolts (i.e.
either 0, 1, or 2) will be defective in a sample of 4 taken from
a production process in which 20% of all bolts produced are
defective. Here, we use
BIN 2 4 0.2 [= 0.9728
the same answer given by Spiegel.
The probability that exactly 2 bolts will be defective in this
problem is obtained merely by entering the Y register
Y [= 0.1536
POIS
----
This is the Poisson cumulative probability of the occurrence of
X or fewer events in a sample of size N, where the probability
of a single event is Q - using same syntax as BIN:
POIS X N Q
The 'integration' logic used by FCA here is the same as for the
binomial distribution. That is, the result found is the
summation of the individual Poisson probabilities from 0 to X.
The point probability is found in register Y.
The primary reason why this distribution is needed to supplement
the Binomial, is that the latter has a restricted range, owing to
the fact that it uses the factorial function to operate on the
sample size. This function explodes beyond the number range
intelligible to FCA for arguments larger than 170. The Poisson
distribution also uses the factorial function, but only on the
value of X. It is therefore capable of dealing with very large
sample sizes. The disadvantage of the Poisson is that it is only
an approximation to the Binomial.
Using another example out of Spiegel's text, we may find the
probability that more than 2 individuals out of a sample of 2000
will suffer a bad reaction from a certain injection, if the
probability that any individual will suffer is 0.001. This
problem is clearly beyond the capabilities of the binomial
distribution. The problem is solved first by finding the
probability that at least 2 will suffer. This is:
POIS 2 2000 0.001 [= 0.6767
The probability that more than 2 will suffer is obviously 1
minus this result:
1 - C [= 0.3233
which is the same as Spiegel's result.
The probability that exactly 2 persons will suffer in this
problem is found in register Y:
Y [= 0.2707
NORM
----
The syntax for the normal probability is
NORM [X M S F] | [Z]
The form here indicates two modes of data entry; one which
involves inputting the sample mean X, the population mean M, the
sample standard deviation S, and the degrees of freedom F
associated with that sample - or simply the z-score. The value of
F should be equal to N - 1; that is, it should be one minus the
sample size. FCA will automatically calculate the appropriate
z-score if the first data entry method is used. The result is
found in register Z.
The terminology used here is compatible with the terminology used
in the MEAN section of FCA. Since FCA only uses the absolute
value of the z-score to calculate the probability of the null
hypothesis, it does not matter whether MEAN is used to compute
population or sample means.
Thus, after entering the sample in MEAN, the user may exit and
test a particular value of X, say 5, against those results by
entering
NORM 5 M S F
FCA will pick up the values of M, S, F and proceed to calculate
the z-score for the X-value 5. The result returned in C (and
pasted to text, if STUF mode is active) is the probability of the
null hypothesis - that is, the 'one-tailed' cumulative Normal
probability associated with values of X equal to or greater than
5.
If only one parameter is entered, NORM assumes that this value
is the raw z-score. For example, the one-tailed Normal
probability for a z-score of 1.96 is:
NORM 1.96 [= 2.500e-02
which checks exactly with any standard table of Normal
probabilities. 1.96 will be recognised by statisticians as the
usual z-score associated with defining a two-tailed 95% confidence
interval about a mean [2.500e-02 = 1 - 0.95/2].
The Normal ordinate for the input value of 1.96 is available in Y:
Y
STUD
----
The Normal distribution is not very useful except on large
samples, for which reason the Student distribution was developed
earlier this Century by Gosset. The syntax is -
STUD [X M S F] | [Z F]
Same remarks for these variables and their purpose as given above
for NORM. Note that, if the calculation of the t-score is avoided
and direct entry is desired, the user must enter degrees of
freedom F along with the score.
For example, if the t-score is 12.706 based on a sample size
only two data, so that there is only 1 degree of freedom, then
the probability of the null hypothesis is
STUD 12.706 1 [= 2.500e-02
which agrees exactly with statistical tables on the Student
distribution.
FCA does not yet support recovery of the Student ordinate values.
The point about the importance of large samples for the Normal
distribution may be seen by noting how many degrees of freedom are
necessary to bring the Student probability into line with the
Normal, using a constant score of 1.96. This can be seen in the
following brief chart:
Z = 1.96
-------------------
Degrees of freedom Student probability
------------------ -------------------
1 0.150
10 3.922e-02
30 2.967e-02
100 2.639e-02
500 2.528e-02
5000 2.503e-02
Note how the Student probability converges to the Normal as very
large amounts of data are used to calculate the sample mean. Note
also the probability with a sample size of 31 (F = 30): the value
there is close enough to the Normal value of 2.500e-02 to let the
Normal present a reasonably accurate picture of a two-tailed 95%
confidence interval on that sample size. This is the reason why
most statisticians don't consider a Normal test to be good unless
the sample is based on at least 30 pieces of data.
In text editing applications, where the user is evaluating a small
number of results, say, sample sizes of the order of 3 to 12
pieces of data, and wants a quick analysis, the Normal
distribution will not be helpful at all: The Student distribution
will be required. And it is quite handy to have such a
distribution immediately accessible at the touch of a hotkey.
I have referred here to the "t-score"; but the syntax of the STUD
function uses the variable Z. This is due to the fact that FCA
uses the same definition for the standard deviation throughout all
its statistics routines, resulting in the fact that the z-score
and the t-score use the same formulas. This being the case, it
was not necessary to distinguish a "T" variable for separate use
with the Student distribution.
Wait time
---------
The Student integral is a relatively complex and slowly converging
infinite series, and so, certain combinations of values will cause
FCA to display the message
Wait ...
for an appreciable length of time. This means that the integral
is being calculated. As stated above in the introductory portion
of this file, FCA will take full advantage of a numeric
coprocessor, if one is installed. Experiment shows that Student
probability calculations run between 30 and 60 times faster when
when there is an installed coprocessor.
Normally, this wait time problem is not significant. But for very
large t-scores and small values of F, execution time for the
Student probability may prove to be substantial, even for fast
machines. For example,
STUD 64 1 [= 4.973e-03
requires 8 seconds on a 20 Mhz 386/387 machine. On a 486 machine,
the expectation is that this result would require somewhat less
than 2 seconds, since all such machines have numeric coprocessor
capability built-in.
On a 6 MHz AT without coprocessor, however, this calculation will
require more than 22 MINUTES.
So, if you see 'Wait ...' just wait: your machine is NOT hung.
And avoid Z values substantially larger than 10, unless you have a
coprocessor, or are prepared to wait for the result. Execution
time rises about as the square of Z and drops in rough linear
proportion to the value of F.
Nearly always, however, the user will not be considering such
large t-scores and will have samples which are larger than just
two pieces of data (1 degree of freedom). For example, a t-score
of 2.78 based on a calculated mean of a sample of size 5 -
STUD 2.78 4 [= 2.491e-02
executes virtually instantaneously on a 386/387, and requires
about 3 seconds on a 6 MHz AT without coprocessor.
Prompt Colour
-------------
As stated above, to change the colour of the calculation window,
simply enter
COLOR x
in the window, where x is a COLOR number. The default is 112,
which describes black foreground on a white background. 0 is
impossible (black on black), and so FCA converts that number to
112 automatically. Foreground and Background colours may be
determined by using the following table:
Back Fore Bright Fore
---- ---- -----------
Black 0 0 8
Blue 16 1 9
Green 32 2 10
Cyan 48 3 11
Red 64 4 12
Magenta 80 5 13
Brown 96 6 14
White 112 7 15
The correct COLOR number is found merely by adding the Foreground
number to the Background number desired. For example, Bright
Green on Blue background is 10 + 16 = 26.
Avoid setting COLOR above 127. Values above that limit will
In my estimation the COLORs best for the eye are 10, 11, 14, 15,
26, 27, 30, 31, 74, 75, 78, 79 and 112. But you may have other
ideas. Example,
COLOR 75
sets the window to Bright Cyan on a Red background.
Errors
------
FCA supports error reports as follows -
xyz: illegal - This message occurs where your entered
instruction, 'xyz', is not recognised by
FCA. For example, 'TAN89' is illegal;
should be 'TAN 89'.
Read examples in documentation above to
be sure you understand how to enter
expressions.
Illegal X setting - This means that you have tried to save
the value of unsupported register into
X. The supported registers are listed
on the help screen.
Zero divide error - Attempt to divide by zero. This can be
an explicit mistake, like '5 / 0', or it
may be an attempt to calculate the value
of a unary function which divides two
other functions to obtain its result.
For example, the TAN, or Tangent of an
angle, is really the ratio of the Sine
and the Cosine of that angle; but the
Cosine of 90 degrees is zero, so trying
to find the Tangent of 90 will generate
this error.
Negative base error - You tried raising a negative number to a
power (cannot be done on real numbers).
Negative argument error - You tried taking the LOG of a negative
number (cannot be done on real numbers).
Requires registration - This means you are trying to access a
function accessible only to registered
users. (Send in your contribution, and
get full access!)
providing diagnostics on values of special variables, especially
in reference to the probility and statistics functions. These are
all self-explanatory.
CAUTION
-------
Certain types of editors will not work consistently with FCA - in
particular, editors which simulate the Macintosh console
environment, such as the Microsoft DOS 5.0 Editor. Like Microsoft
Windows, these environments do certain tricks with video display -
and, so I understand, certain tricks to redefine one or more
interrupt functions - which lead to machine hangs when FCA and
other similar TSR's are run concurrently with them. (The problem
here is not unique to FCA, as collateral testing of other TSR
calculators has shown).
Further, like all memory resident programs, FCA is vulnerable to
compatibility problems which may arise from its use with other
TSR's. If you find you must reboot, try removing other memory
resident programs from your AUTOEXEC.BAT file, or try changing the
sequence in which they are loaded until you find the best
combination.
However, tests have shown that FCA is much less vulnerable to
interrupt collisions and other compatibility problems than other
resident floating point calculators.
One category of TSR which is almost guaranteed to cause trouble
for FCA (and for any program which stuffs keystrokes into the
keyboard buffer) are programs like 128KEY.COM, which lengthen or
change the effective size of the keyboard buffer. Don't use such
programs with FCA.
FCA is primarily intended to work with editors and wordprocessors,
and has been tested on Wordperfect 5.0, Galaxy 2.42, Captain
Blackbeard 1.13, SLED 1.1, QEDIT 2.08, pEDIT 2.10, and a number of
other editors/wordprocessors, with no confirmed problem or
abnormality.
FCA is recommended for use as the last memory resident program
loaded, so as to permit the use of the /U commandline option to
unload it from memory, and only in standard text-editing or
wordprocessing applications. Unless you have found that FCA works
with your non-standard application, it is recommended that you | infimm_webmath |
How Russia Stunned The World With Its Supersonic Commercial Jet Before Conceding To A European Aircraft?
Imagine being served countless glasses of champagne, Angus beef, Scottish smoked salmon, caviar, lobster, guinea fowl, truffles, and foie gras on an airliner cruising at 30,000 feet, while travelling at twice the speed of sound.
Imagine just 100 seats in a gigantic plane with 2 seats x2 configuration. You overtake Boeings cruising below you, warning them of that explosive sound when you are zooming ahead at twice their speed. Yet, this was a reality in the 1970s and the 80s when the Concorde ferried rich and famous from New York to London in under four hours!
It was the plane made for the rich and famous. A design that resembled a pterodactyl, with just 100 plush seats, and six-star service on board. Flying by the Concorde was a status symbol. No wonder the celebs loved it.
The Concorde was a technological marvel. With a top speed of 2,179 kilometers per hour or Mach 2.04, the aircraft was the world’s first commercial supersonic transport (SST) and stayed in service for close to three decades.
For the 70s, the aircraft had very advanced technology onboard. The electrically-controlled analogue fly-by-wire flight control systems coupled with full autopilot and autothrottle system made the aircraft relatively easy to fly as it allowed ‘hands-off’ control of the aircraft from take-off to landing. The aircraft was also provided with an air data computer. Mind you, this was the 70s!
Jointly designed by France’s Aérospatiale and British Aircraft Corporation (BAC) of the United Kingdom, the supersonic transport (SST) first took to the skies on March 2nd, 1969. It was powered by four Rolls Royce/Snecma Olympus 593 engines and was inducted into regular commercial service in 1976.
10 Times Faster Than Sound: New Russian Hypersonic Missile Loaded On Su-57 Could ‘Devastate’ US Defences
The plane flew until 2001 when it was briefly grounded due to a fatal crash. The Concorde was officially retired from commercial service in 2003. It went out of service, not for lack of clientele, but because of its breaking the sound barrier every time it flew. People who lived near Heathrow complained of shattered windows.
The Soviet Competitor
Conscious of the glamour and exclusivity surrounding the Concorde and the attention it was generating, the Soviets were secretly working hard on their own supersonic transport aircraft – The Tupolev Tu-144.
The USSR achieved a breakthrough when the Tu-144 took off for its maiden flight in December 1968 and went supersonic on June 5th, 1969, four months before the Concorde!
In 1970, it became the first commercial transport aircraft to fly at Mach 2.0. The BBC quoting Jack Lowe, a British Airways flight operations manager, said in a report: “The rivalry between Concorde and the Tu-144 was symptomatic of that international era.”
It was an era of intense technological competition between the West and the now-defunct Soviet Union. But such was the Russian’ technological competence that French President Georges Pompidou, when he saw it at the Paris Air Show, exclaimed, “A beautiful plane”. The makers of Concorde, setting aside rivalry, conceded that it was “quieter and cleaner.”
“Quieter”. That was an important concession from a rival. Because ultimately, that is what sank the Concorde, its explosive sound barrier-breaking speed, which set the teeth on edge for residents near Heathrow and grounded it forever.
With the Soviets and western nations competing with each other to conquer the space, the rivalry between Tu-144 and Concorde was intense and a matter of prestige for both sides.
Despite its initial success, the Tu-144 would never make it as far as the Concorde. It was plagued by development and reliability issues. The crash of a Tu-144 at the Paris Air Show was a massive setback to the program.
It was introduced into commercial passenger service in 1975 only to be withdrawn three years later due to its poor safety record and reliability issues. The aircraft was later used to transport cargo and conducted a couple of test flights for NASA for placing satellites in space.
The American Dream
It all began in the early sixties. Backed by then-President John F. Kennedy, the United States too was exploring feasible SST options. Lockheed Martin, North American Aviation (NAA), and Boeing were at the forefront of these efforts.
Boeing came up with the design for a variable geometry “swing-wing” aircraft called Boeing 2707 which won the American SST competition sidelining the concepts by Lockheed Martin and North American Aviation (NAA).
But it was a dream that was never realized. Marred by government budget cuts, environmental concerns and the lack of a niche market ensured that the Boeing 2707 just remained a concept on paper. The fact the SSTs were gas guzzlers and cost a small fortune to maintain did not help either.
A not-so-rosy past and a beckoning future
But the legend of the Concorde, TU-144 and the failed attempts by the Americans have not ended the dream of the airlines to have a superfast aircraft.
Despite many companies toying with the idea of a supersonic aircraft in the past and having dumped it too, aviation firms have not given up on the idea. The Japanese Space Agency JAXA is working on its Next Generation Supersonic Transport Jet.
US companies – Boom Supersonic is working on its prototype XB-1. Aerion Supersonic has its AS2 aircraft in the works, while Spike Aerospace is aiming to produce the fastest civilian aircraft. Boeing too is working on a hypersonic aircraft design.
Looking at the history of supersonic air transport, it can be concluded the Anglo-French Concorde made it, the Soviet Tu-144 came very close, while the American Boeing only remained a pipe dream.
Whether the new SST designs will succeed and can supersonic commercial travel make a comeback again? At a time, when time is money, the rich and influential will finally decide.
Exit mobile version | dclm_edu |
In the meantime, instead of filling our evenings with BBQs and garden parties, Mr B and I have been watching some of the rich pickings BBC has had on offer this past month. These are both positively lovely at least in terms of costumes and set designs (as far as I'm concerned, amazing costumes and sets make up for a lack of almost anything else) and are pulling me in opposite directions style wise.
If you're in the UK then you're probably already familiar with these and if you're in the US then no doubt they will soon be screening on PBS or BBC America (and if you're elsewhere in the world, you'll have to forgive me as I have no idea which channels you have).
Life in Squares
I'm not really sure if I think they did a good job telling the story of the Bloomsbury group or not (I suspect not), but I don't actually care because everything looked so good. Twenties bohemia is definitely a look I can get behind.
Partners in Crime
I must admit, having read Agatha Christie's The Secret Adversary, I was a bit disappointed when I heard they were going to be setting this version of Tommy & Tuppence in the 50's. But I got over that pretty quickly when I saw how absolutely adorable is Jessica Raine in this series!!! She makes me want to get a pixie cut again. And her wardrobe . . . !! I'd be hard pressed to tell you my favourite of her outfits, but this one comes to mind.
So now I have to make the decision as to whether I spend the Autumn in pedal pushers, twinsets and a gamine hairdo or in colourful headscarfs and smocks with paint under my fingernails.
Which do you think? | fineweb_edu |
authentiCITY is about getting to know who you truly are and being it without fear or compromise.
It must have been Easter time.
Memories can be deceitful, but these memories are filled with images of hot cross buns and chocolate covered marshmallow sweets.
Perhaps it was just past Easter, entering the first chills of winter (in the Southern Hemisphere, anyway), while retailers attempted to move the last of the season’s merchandise.
We were having pasta and red wine – a meal that goes down well at that time of the year.
I was in my early twenties and my host was a man in his late fifties.
I cannot tell you very much about my host.
I knew him only briefly.
We met two years earlier and he passed away shortly after that evening.
He held a doctorate in ancient eastern languages.
I hope you find it there & enjoy the book.
After all the writing only becomes meaningful in the reading. | fineweb_edu |
Of the world’s 22 most profitable luxury brands, 20 come from Europe.
Yet Europe is no longer the world’s biggest consumer of the luxury labels it produces. Nor is America, which is responsible for the other two. Asia, the Middle East and Russia now represent huge markets for these brands. It’s thought over half the world’s spend on luxury brands now comes from China. Those parts of the world that most enthusiastically consume these luxuries haven’t yet emerged as significant producers of them.
Why is this, and is this situation likely to change?
Whilst it’s easy to name some luxury brands (such as Canali, Valentino, and Ralph Lauren) it’s less easy to define exactly at which point a high-quality, desirable good turns into a luxury brand.
Luxury brands tend to have a set of characteristics in common. They are often highly associated with their core products – Louis Vuitton with luggage, for example, or Rolex with timepieces.
In general they offer products that are among the most expensive versions available. The quality and durability of those products is so high that they tend not to be disposed of after long use or a defect developing – rather they are repaired. In many cases, a luxury item will increase rather than decrease in value over time.
Luxury goods also exhibit qualities of rarity; they are not always available at every time and in every place and only a limited number may be produced. The brand control is so absolute that the brand is never seen in a tawdry light or badly presented. All these characteristics contribute to their desirability and help to explain why the status of a luxury brand is so hard to achieve.
Whilst many brands are associated with high-quality goods, few make it into this exclusive club. One final essential characteristic of a true luxury brand is that it is international; known and feted as a luxury brand in every market.
Many brands manage to achieve the characteristics of a luxury brand in one or a limited number of markets without ever becoming recognised internationally, meaning they never quite achieve the status of a true luxury brand.
Examples include Pabst Blue Ribbon beer, which is marketed as luxury drink in Asia but seen as an ordinary everyday beer in its US home market; or Clarks shoes, considered so desirable in Jamaica that fake versions are produced, but seen as a decent but unremarkable high street brand back home in the UK.
Certain localities have been particularly successful at producing luxury brands. In the eyes of consumers, European brands benefit from an historic association with some of the qualities essential to luxury brands, such as precision and craftsmanship. Specific countries such as France tend to benefit from a long association with top end fashion and elegance. This reputation tends to benefit other brands of the same nationality via a ‘halo effect’.
The success of luxury brands such as Rolex in Switzerland, Chanel in France, Prada in Italy, etc. imply to consumers that other luxury brands based in the same geography will be able to draw on the same talent pool in order build their businesses and therefore should deliver products of comparable quality. The same goes for Siemens and Germany’s reputation for engineering excellence or Sony and Japan’s reputation for innovation in consumer electronics.
One Asian brand that has achieved the status of international luxury brand is Shanghai Tang. Established in Hong Kong in the mid-nineties, the brand initially did far better in the West than in markets closer to home. In recent years it has enjoyed more success at home and the majority of its custom now comes from China.
Part of the brand’s success has been to reach back to the glamorous past, drawing inspiration from the Shanghai of the 1930’s. Perhaps this implies that even a successful native luxury brand needs to find authenticity outside the current market and manufacturing conditions in order to be perceived as premium by consumers. Asian consumers’ own skepticism about the quality of native brands would seem to be the biggest barrier to the region producing its own luxury brands.
Some commentators claim a lack of innovation is the reason China has so far failed to produce a luxury brand of its own. The time it takes a new luxury product to reach the market from concept stage is usually around two years and involves significant rounds of design and testing. Some observe that China’s manufacturers tend to copy products that have already proven successful, rather than go through the long-winded research and development process to create new ones.
This argument, however, is getting rather old, and doesn’t explain the full truth. Luxury brands have become established in Europe partly because of the long and sustained existence of a wealthy middle or merchant class that has demanded them.
The establishment of new luxury brands also necessitates a few other factors, none of which are outside the capabilities of markets such as China or Russia. These market factors essential to the establishment of luxury brands include sophisticated, cutting-edge craftsmanship, the emergence of a brand with values that the market strongly identifies with, the nurturing of top design talent and world-class operational and management skills.
If these environmental factors are established in any market it’s likely that native luxury brands will eventually emerge. It will be interesting to see how these brands position themselves to compete with their more established western competitors. | fineweb_edu |
The installations comment on the hundreds of people literally living underground in Bucharest.
Walk around Milan with your eyes glued to your phone and you might find yourself falling into somebody’s blue and white-tiled shower stall. For this strange life experience you could thank local artist Biancoshock, who’s decked out manholes to look like rooms in a pleasantly decorated but microscopic house.
Biancoshock, a practitioner of “ephemeralism” who’s also made a plastic bubble-popping service for bored commuters and a sidewalk station for high fives, isn’t just dabbling in whimsy. The underground lairs he somehow stocked with wallpaper, framed artwork, and even a kitchenette are meant to draw attention to the scores of homeless people in Bucharest who live in tunnels and sewers. Many are said to be ex-residents of Romania’s horrid orphanages who had no safety net when released in 1989. Many also are struggling with addictions and HIV/AIDS, as well as the occasional police raid for alleged drug trafficking.
Biancoshock writes that Bucharest’s subterranean population numbers hover around 600. The message of his Milan intervention, he states, is that if “some problems can not be avoided, [at least] make them comfortable.”
H/t StreetArtNews
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Fibromyalgia Awareness among People
Fibromyalgia AwarenessFibromyalgia is a chronic condition. While fibromyalgia does not damage the joints or organs, the constant aches and fatigue can have a significant impact on daily life. The pain caused by fibromyalgia can either be centralized in one specific portion of the body or distributed to different parts. But, taking pain-relievers can help a lot in reducing the pain felt by the body.
Some of the more typical symptoms of Fibromyalgia may include:
1. Numbing and tingling
2. Cramping
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5. Muscles spasms
6. Joint muscle pain
7. Weakness
8. Insomnia
The most common symptom of fibromyalgia is unexplainable pain that can be felt all over your body, particularly at various fibromyalgia trigger points. Most people who have fibromyalgia report experiencing pain around the clock. There are a variety of treatment options available for people who suffer from symptoms of fibromyalgia.
Best Treatment Options for Fibromyalgia Cure
1. A healthy Fibromyalgia diet, consisting of eating lots of fruits and natural vegetables. It is one of the most important natural cures for Fibromyalgia.
2. Medication Can help to temporarily alleviate the symptoms of Fibromyalgia
3. Aerobic exercises are known to improve the blood circulation and help in curing Fibromyalgia symptoms.
4. Chiropractic treatment uses gentle force of the hands on the body & spine. It is a best option to cure Fibromyalgia.
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I have a 6*6 puzzle with 35 numbers(1~35) in a random sequence. Use the blank one as a 'register' and move the numbers one by one to let them be in order. I can deal with a 3*3 puzzle, but how to deal with a 6*6 one? Could you give me some hints? enter image description here
share|improve this question
Is this homework? – Tyler Crompton Jun 20 '12 at 15:33
How do you deal with the 3x3 case? – Niklas B. Jun 20 '12 at 15:34
Any random sequence? Even unsovable ones? – harold Jun 20 '12 at 15:34
@TylerCrompton: The 2x2 simple example: [[2,1],[3, ]]. Half of all possible puzzles are unsolvable. – Kendall Frey Jun 20 '12 at 15:35
The 3x3 algorithm should scale perfectly to the 6x6 version. – Kendall Frey Jun 20 '12 at 15:36
up vote 7 down vote accepted
The idea is the same, represent the problem as a states graph, and run shortest path algorithm.
If the efficiency of the algorithm is important, you might want an informed algorithm -such as A* algorithm, which is expected to be pretty fast (relative to the alternatives) with a good admissible heuristic function.
A slower though simpler solution can be running a BFS.
Both algorithms (A*, BFS) are both complete (always finds a solutuion, if one exists) and optimal (finds shortest path).
Also note, you can use macros to learn "good" series of moves, to get the algorithm faster. Ignore this improvement until you implement a working (though slow) solution.
EDIT: Coding guidelines:
Look at the problem as a graph: The graph will be G=(V,E) where V = { all possible states} and E = { (u,v) | can move from state u to state v within a single step }
Now, with this graph - you have a starting position (the source, which is given as input) and a target (a sorted puzzle). Start a BFS or A* (have a look at the pseudo code of these in the attached wikipedia links), to find a path from the source to the destination. You should start with BFS - it is simpler.
The path returned by the shortest path algorithm is identical to the series of moves you will have to do in order to get from the starting board to the target.
Note: You do not need to create the actual graph! you just need a to hold the starting node (source) - and create its vertex, and have a successors:V->2^V function, that gives you the successors for each vertex (formally: successors(v) = { (v,u) | (v,u) is in E } ). This way, you can build the relevant part of the graph on the fly.
share|improve this answer
Efficiency is probably a non-issue in a matrix this small, especially if it's a homework or learning problem. – Robert Harvey Jun 20 '12 at 15:37
To be honest, I don't know how to solve this problem and this answer does not help. Very very high level pseudo code would be a good way to demonstrate how this would be done. – Tyler Crompton Jun 20 '12 at 15:39
@Tyler: This answer assumes that OP already uses this strategy for 3x3, but that it's not fast enough to work for 6x6. Without more information from OP, we can't really now what's the problem. – Niklas B. Jun 20 '12 at 15:41
@NiklasB.: There is no reason to use dijkstra or BF in here. A BFS will be both faster and easier to code then both - since the graph is unweighted. – amit Jun 20 '12 at 15:43
@NiklasB.: Since there are 36!/2 possible states and the solution could take hundreds of moves, I doubt Dijkstra or BFS will be fast enough. – interjay Jun 20 '12 at 15:45
I've studied this same problem/puzzle when I was in college and its a very interesting problem that involves AI and heuristic techniques and graph-theory. As stated by amit, you is strongly recommended to check A*, BFS and heuristics.
Here is my contribution: when trying to solve this, you can try a divide to conquer strategy. You can think that this 6x6 grid is just four 3x3 grids coupled close each other, and try to solve each one as separated cases in a given order.
For instance, you can try the following algorithm:
1. arrange your pieces in a manner that the left-upper grid contains all of its pieces, except one (that will be used as working space);
2. solve the left-upper grid;
3. arrange the right-upper grid in a manner that it contais all of its pieces, except the botttom-right one (that will be used as working space);
4. solve the right-upper grid;
5. ... and so on, independetly of the number of grids!
The final issue to say is that you must pay attention on which corner you gonna left as working space as you can't let the upper-right corner of the upper-right grid be your working space "missing pieces" because it will be not possible to put a piece there in future;
Ps1: working space is the position that you temporary let the piece missed, to be able to have a free space to maneuver pieces;
Ps2: in this context, grid is a combination of NxN pieces, that haves all the correct pieces, not necessarily in order.
Hope that I've helped in some way. :-)
share|improve this answer
thank u, too. you and amit both give me much help :-) – tmj Jun 20 '12 at 16:15
A simple strategy to this game is put the right numbers on the top row (it should be easy because you don't care about other numbers, the last two numbers are a little more difficult to put in the right place because you have to place both of them in the same movement), then you freeze the top row and continue with the left column and then with the top row and then with the left column …
It is not the optimal strategy but it is one that works and is simple to code.
share|improve this answer
I think if we will traverse the whole 6*6 Matrix At a time we will be able to find only one small number and moved it to the next Matrix which is not a relevant solution. Better way to solve this problem is use the binary search on the given matrix.If We will Apply the binary search then there will be high time complexity.So what is the better way to solve this problem
share|improve this answer
Requested you to all have a look in to below code.Below code is the solution for above problem.I have solved the above problem using Insertion Sort.No need to use BFS or any stuff – Prince Sanghi Apr 3 '15 at 7:07
I have solved the above puzzle by using Inserting Sort algorithm. It took almost 2 days for me to solve the above puzzle. Just Run below .Net code if you have to ask anything then just drop a message to me. I have not used any C# inbuilt class to solve the above problem. It's a pure c Logic Code Solution with Code
private static void MazePuzzle()
* A typical C Problem for Maze puzzle has been solved by prince.It took almost 3 days.
* Problem is about Sorting a 2D Matrix with any number of row and column
* This problem is also known as Rat Maze puzzle
* It is also be a typical Backtracking Problem
* ***/
const int _row = 6;
const int _coloumn = 6;
//int _column1 = _coloumn;
int[,] _doubleArray = new int[_row, _coloumn] { { 19, 2, 4, 34, 23, 41 }, { 11, 63, 3, 93, 65, 98 }, { 12, 80, 15, 76, 71, 90 }, { 119, 32, 94, 84, 23, 41 }, { 129, 232, 124, 341, 253, 411 }, { 197, 289, 47, 343, 293, 401 } };
int [] _StoringArray1D=new int[_row*_coloumn];
int i = 0;
int j = 0;
int _comparingArrayElement = 0;
int _swipeTemp = 0;
for (; i < _row; i++)
int _trackrow = 0;
for (;j <_coloumn; j++)
_trackrow = 0;
_comparingArrayElement= _doubleArray[i, j + 1];
_swipeTemp = _doubleArray[i,j+1];
_doubleArray[i, j + 1] = _doubleArray[i, j];
_doubleArray[i, j] = _swipeTemp;
}//innerMost if
}//For First time
int k = 0;
if (_trackrow == i || _trackrow < i)
for (; k < _coloumn; k++)
if(k==j && i==_trackrow)
int _swipetempPrevious=_doubleArray[_trackrow,k];
_doubleArray[i, j] = _swipetempPrevious;
//do nothing just traverse
}//swipe else
}//k==j else
}//inner for do while
k = 0;
}//trackrow if
}//trackrow else
} while (true);
}//innner for
j = 0;
}//outer for
Console.WriteLine("End of Program");
}//Maze Puzzle Method
share|improve this answer
Your Answer
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Almost every assignment you complete for a history course will ask you to make an argument your instructors will often call this your thesis -- your position on a subject what is an argument an argument takes a stand on. Advice on how to write an art history paper written by an art history professor who has graded thousands of these papers ranging from the superlative to the good format mla apa chicago your citation. These owl resources provide guidance on typical genres with the art history welcome to the purdue owl you can tell this by the distasteful look on his face and that his pockets are stuffed with bills and papers. 2018-01-16 art history paper topics - 10 ideas and examples there's no shortage of topics for art history papers. Revise and prepare for exams in a-level history of art (2250) for exams from 2013 by downloading past papers/ specimen papers, mark schemes and example answers. Format publication year rewrites the history of african american art and artists in the inter-war years format publication year university of michigan press 839 greene street ann arbor, mi 48104-3209.
Order non-plagiarized custom written research papers from professays reasonable prices for high quality papers we hire only certified academic writers with us. A basic format requirements 1 papers are typed most art history research papers will require that you consult primary and secondary sources any arguments, ideas, and insights of others, as well as direct quotations and. Guidelines for analysis of art formal analysis paper examples guidelines for writing art history research papers oral report guidelines 2015 art history prizes annual arkansas college art history symposium.
General guidelines for writing an art history term paper: art papers benefit from the inclusion of illustrations format: include a title page. Thesis topics cu boulder department of art and art history recent ma thesis topics a full listing of papers/projects can be viewed at the norlin library “the. Free term paper on art history available totally free at planet paperscom, the largest free term paper community.
Guide to writing research papers for the history department at le moyne college. Tips for writing an art history paper by jenny lauer art history papers are unique in that they require the student not only to visually analyze a specific work or artistic movement, but also to synthesize relevant. Writing an art history paper an art history research paper can take a variety of forms comparisons of two works of art are often used in.View | fineweb_edu |
© Daniel Krieger/Eater.com
Dutch KillsUsually my colleague Kate Krader's the one obsessing about cocktails. This time, however, I was the one who (uncharacteristically) decided she and I immediately needed to go to Dutch Kills, a new bar co-owned by hitmaker Sasha Petraske (NYC's Milk & Honey, Little Branch, etc.), located on an industrial stretch of Long Island City, Queens. Of course when we got there Kate took over: She recognized a bunch of staffers from her favorite cocktail haunts, like bartender Jane Danger of PDT. (She's the inventor of the notorious Danger Tots—Tater Tots loaded with cheese, bacon and guacamole. The recipe's in F&W's just-out Cocktails 2009.) And Kate told me that all the bext mixologists in town "worship" co-owner Richard Boccato, who enlisted his mother to sew curtains for the tall-backed wooden booths he built himself. The space is long and dark, cozy in the front and cavernous in the back where there's a chandelier dangling from the ceiling, sawdust on the floor and a pair of pianos against the walls. (I thought they'd be perfect for a round of dueling pianos—Richie agreed.) The short, monthly-changing, Queens-themed, historically-reverent cocktail menu is already known for its reasonable prices: $9 a drink. We got the Steinway Punch (circa 1933), a delicious and citrusy rye-whiskey concoction poured over a chisel-like piece of ice, and a Queens Park Swizzle (circa 1920), which looks a little like a Sno-Kone but tastes like a fabulous, not-too-sweet mojito. Then we congratulated ourselves (well, I congratulated myself) on discovering a great new place. | fineweb_edu |
Import Error - The integration component denied to create the following entity: CorporateRecruitmentSource
Last updated on MAY 17, 2017
Applies to:Oracle Taleo Recruiting Cloud Service - Version 15B and later
Information in this document applies to any platform.
A TCC import on the CorporateRecruitmentSource entity fails with an error :"The integration component denied to create the following entity: CorporateRecruitmentSource"
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package com.example.passport.thc.repository;
import com.example.passport.thc.model.Locations;
import org.springframework.data.domain.Page;
import org.springframework.data.domain.Pageable;
import org.springframework.data.repository.CrudRepository;
import org.springframework.stereotype.Repository;
@Repository
public interface LocationRepository extends CrudRepository<Locations, Long> {
Locations findByName(String locationName);
Locations findByLocationId (Long locationId);
Page<Locations> findAll(Pageable pageable);
}
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Getting The Web Design Results You Truly Want
It can be expensive to pay a design company to manage your website. The money you pay might not even ensure you get the site you want. The truth is that there is no way accurately represent what you want. You are the one that knows your wants. Use this web design advice to build a site you're proud to share.
Each topic needs its own page. Put these topics on separate pages if your website covers a variety of different topics. Not only will viewers be less confused, but search engines can pick up on your site easier, which gives you a higher ranking.
You should seriously consider buying your own web hosting if you plan on having a commercial site. If you are attempting to sell something as well, most free host sites force you to display their advertisements, which is counter-intuitive. Purchase your own hosting to avoid this advertising hassle, so that you can choose your own ads.
Don't load rich content automatically. Anything other than text or graphics qualifies, though rich content mainly refers to videos and music. Many people browse in work environments where sounds suddenly playing is a big problem. Also, many people find such rich content annoying in general. Before playing, rich content should require some interaction from the user.
You can save some serious cash by choosing a free, open source program, if you're going to choose a software program to aid in the design of your website. Open source programs are great not only because they're free for public use, but also because they're constantly updated and improved by users with a lot of web know-how.
Become familiar with photoshop as much as you can if you are just starting out with web design. You want to be as diverse with a lot of programs as possible and photoshop is crucial towards becoming a pro at web design. So, learn this program and get ready for others as well.
Also the sub-domains, although you should have a visible tagline included on not only every webpage that is in the domain. Use large or bold font so that your visitors notice these taglines right away. It has to explain what the page is about so your visitor can quickly decide to stick around or not.
Proofread all of your site's content. You want your site to flow well, so that visitors can read it quickly without getting caught up in content mistakes. When you have glaring errors, it sheds a negative light on you and your business.
Being up-to-date on the different web design trends is a great way to stay on top of things. You probably already know all too well how tech matters can change overnight, and failing to keep up means getting left behind. Check out a few design blogs to get the information you need to know.
Make sure that you include an "About Us" page on your site as you are designing it. Do not just add blocks of text that are boring to read - Jazz it up a bit! Provide background information, maybe include some photos of you as you work toward getting to the point where you are at today.
Many web designers make the mistake of trying to completely fill all the white space on their page. You do not have to do that. A clean, simple page can really come off as professional and informative while making it easy to find the information that the visitor had come to the site to find.
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In the sweltering summer of West Egg, on Long Island, lived a man named Nick Carraway. He was a Yale graduate from the Midwest who had moved east to dabble in the bond business. His neighbor, Jay Gatsby, was an enigmatic figure known for his extravagant parties. Across the bay in the more fashionable East Egg resided the charming yet fickle Daisy Buchanan and her boorish husband Tom, old college chums of Nick's.
One afternoon, while sipping mint juleps on his porch, Nick received an invitation to one of Gatsby's famous soirees. Though hesitant due to its ostentatious reputation, he decided to attend out of curiosity. At the party, he met numerous glitterati but failed to find Gatsby until much later when Jordan Baker, a professional golfer and mutual acquaintance of Daisy, introduced them.
Gatsby struck Nick as someone yearning for connection beyond material wealth. Over time, they developed a close friendship where Gatsby revealed his past love affair with Daisy before going off to war. This revelation painted a picture of a sensitive soul beneath Gatsby's lavish facade. It taught Nick about people often hiding their true selves behind masks constructed by societal pressures and expectations.
Intrigued, Nick arranged a reunion between Gatsby and Daisy at his house. Their meeting stirred up dormant emotions, leading to an affair. However, it became clear that Daisy couldn't leave her unhappy marriage or surrender her carefree lifestyle. Despite this, Gatsby remained infatuated, blinded by his idealized version of their future together.
Meanwhile, Tom discovered the affair which led to a confrontation with Gatsby. During a heated argument in New York City, Daisy chose Tom over Gatsby, revealing her superficial nature. Heartbroken, Gatsby accepted the reality check gracefully, demonstrating maturity despite the crushing blow.
Tragedy ensued when Daisy accidentally killed Myrtle Wilson, Tom's mistress, while driving Gatsby's car. Afraid of the repercussions, she fled with Tom, leaving Gatsby to take responsibility. Myrtle's distraught husband sought revenge and shot himself dead outside Gatsby's mansion. But instead of rallying around him, society turned its back on Gatsby, refusing to acknowledge his tragic end.
Nick watched these events unfold, learning valuable lessons about unrequited love, disillusionment, and moral decay hidden under the shiny veneer of high society. Disenchanted, he decided to return westward, realizing that the American Dream wasn't all it seemed.
This tale underscores the importance of authenticity, empathy, and understanding. Wealth doesn't guarantee happiness; sometimes, it can hinder genuine connections. And above all else, actions have consequences - whether good or bad. | cosmopedia_v2 |
By Andy Metzger
State House News Service
BOSTON -- The House passed legislation Thursday banning robo-calls or automated texts to cellphones.
Mattapoisett Democrat Rep. William Straus said he first filed the bill last session because he noticed he was getting robo-calls and texts from businesses he had never heard of. He viewed it as a "nuisance," he said, and more of an interference than marketing calls to his land line.
"It's just one of those examples where if the Legislature can be helpful to get one added nuisance out of people's lives every day, I think that's a good thing," Straus told the News Service.
"I'm certainly aware as the legislation moves that there may be a First Amendment issue on behalf of candidates who have communication rights, but it's not unlimited in my mind that just because somebody is a candidate for office that they get to reach you anywhere," Straus said.
The bill cleared the House last session but not the Senate. The current bill (H 299) still needs passage in the Senate before reaching the governor's desk, and Straus said, "I have some persuading to do."
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Monday, February 6, 2012
HODASSU: Volunteer Stories
For those of you who don't remember, Fount of Mercy began working with HODASSU in 2011. HODASSU is a Ugandan organization that reaches out to deaf, blind, and disabled children and their caregivers. Here are some stories about a couple of our volunteers that have worked with HODASSU.
Carly is a music teacher in New York City. While traveling with Fount of Mercy, Carly worked with HODASSU's deaf students, teaching them music, rhythm and voice. In Carly's words,
"When I raise my hands above my head to clap, they hoot and holler, releasing squeaks and screams of suppressed excitement. This is wonderful because it tells me two things: the first is that they are both excited and able to make sound, and the second, by the extreme force of their sounds, I can tell this is something that they don't do often. How exciting for us to begin voice work!"
Becky is a high school basketball coach. While volunteering with Fount of Mercy, Becky led PE activities for HODASSU's deaf and blind students. Since these students often do not receive extracurricular activities, PE was a big treat! Becky was so moved by her time with HODASSU's blind students that she wrote this beautiful poem:
"The beauty you cannot see
I see very clearly in you
While your eyes may not focus
The picture I view is more true
What matters in this world
Is not defined by one's sight
But whether or not one has vision
That centers on what is right
Your vision sees no color
Does not distinguish between age
Gives no regard to one's size
For my looks you can't gauge
It simply because I am
That you smile at me
Standing there beside you
All I have to do is be."
Thank you to all our amazing volunteers for your outstanding work!
With thanks - Fount of Mercy | fineweb_edu |
The Australian Government coat of Arms
Communities of practice
Communities of practice
HTTP Status Response code 200 OK or 404 Not found for a requested resource not available in backend system
Hello All,
I have a query
as we know GET:/api/customers when executed and returns empty array we return 200 OK Success with [] (an empty array)
for GET: /api/customers/{customer_id} where customer_id=12345 and assume 12345 is not existing in the database or backend system what possible HTTP Status response code shall be returned 200 OK or 404 Not Found
going through this link
I can say I must use 404 Not Found for the GET: /api/customers/12345 but I received mixed suggestions of using 200 OK in case customer_id=12345 does no exist in database or backend system and use 404 Not Found ONLY when the requested resource URI is not defined in the REST API definition file the interface.
Appreciate your help on this. | dclm_edu |
5 May 2010
Trust and commitment
I had a weird experience today.
I went to buy a car at a dealership. I looked at the small hatchbacks, then I looked at the saloons and estates. I even sat in a sportscar. In the end, I decided I probably wanted a hatchback because it was small and cheap and it did the job.
While I was checking out the plastic interior, a man in jeans and a t-shirt sidled up to me. He said-
"If you pay a bit more, I'll design a car for you."
I asked him what he was on about. He said-
"These are all generic off-the-shelf models. If you pay a bit more, I'll design a car that's custom made to your requirements. It'll have a cupholder made to fit your favourite americano and it'll be perfect for racing Vauxhall Novas off the traffic lights."
"But how do I know I'll like it?" I asked him. He said-
"Its OK, I do this for a living. trust me, you'll like it. If you don't then just pay me half and we'll call it quits."
What? I thought this guy was mental, until I realised he was just a metaphor to explain how creative people come across when selling to consumers.
Think about how creative people try to sell their services. For a potential customer to part with their money, it requires an enormous amount of trust and commitment, whether its an MD paying a design consultancy or a creative director hiring a student.
What's the best way to get commitment? Earn trust.
What's the best way to earn trust? Show commitment.
No comments:
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Homes by using a Make Me Transfer® rate show the quantity the visit this page operator(s) would be willing to offer for. They are exclusive to Zillow and a great way to learn about homes in advance of they strike the marketplace.
Coming Shortly listings are homes that could before long be out there. The listing agent for these homes has added a Coming Quickly Observe to warn buyers in advance. Learn more. | fineweb_edu |
The squat is the first lift performed at every single powerlifting meet. The squat itself isn’t too complicated; you strap on your powerlifting belt, you squat down with a heavy weight and then you stand back up. The rules don’t have to be too complicated, either. Let’s make sure your squats count.
This article isn’t about technique, but if you’re trying to figure out how to optimize your squat leverages, check out the technique series.
Judges and White Lights
As a brief aside, I need to note that, during any lift, competitors are overseen by three judges. It is each of these judges’ job to pay close attention to whether or not the lifter complies with the rules of the event. If a given judge believes that you have, he will flip a switch awarding you a “white” light; or, if he believes you have not, you’ll receive a “red” light. So long as you get at least two white lights, your lift will count.
First, the announcer will let you know that you’re up. Your “turn” officially starts when the announcer calls out, “the bar is loaded”. You have exactly one minute from the time this announcement is made to set-up and unrack the bar. If you fail to do this in under a minute, you forfeit your attempt.
After you unrack the bar, you need to set-up to squat. For those of you squatting out of stands, you’ll have to walk it out. For monolift users, you’re good to go as soon as the spotters clear the hooks. When you’re all set-up and ready to squat, make sure you stand straight up and fully lock your knees out. Once you’ve done this, make eye contact with the head referee. He will then give you the “Squat!” command which is analogous to a “start” signal, but you can begin the actual movement at your own leisure. Be warned, you will not receive the squat command if your knees aren’t fully locked or if you aren’t standing straight up.
After you’ve received the squat command, you need to squat down until your hip joint drops below your knee joint. After you’ve hit depth, squat the weight back up. Make eye contact with the head referee again and wait until he gives you the, “Rack!” command. Once you get the command, you’re allowed to return the bar to the rack.
For a real world example of this whole process, see the video at the end of the section, “Technical Rules”.
More on Squat Depth
Not reaching legal depth is by far the most common technical reason that lifters fail squats. Nearly every federation’s rulebook contains approximately the same rule. Here is the definition of depth from the IPF Rulebook:
“…the lifter must bend the knees and lower the body until the top surface of the legs at the hip joint is lower than the top of the knees.”
In simple terms, this means the lifter must squat down until their hip joint is lower than their knee joint.
Unfortunately, depth standards are not universal. Some federations have a reputation for over-enforcing the rule and others are notorious for the exact opposite reason. If you’d like a video example of legal depth, or if you’d like to hear a bit more about the politics of squat depth in powerlifting, I highly recommend that you watch this video:
You can fail the squat for a variety of reasons:
- As mentioned above, the most common error is not reaching legal depth. This will automatically disqualify your lift even if you successfully complete the attempt.
- If you do not follow the commands, your lift will be disqualified. You must wait for the “Squat!” command to begin your descent and you must wait for the “Rack!” command to return the bar to the rack. If your feet move at all during or after the lift, and before you’re given the “Rack!” command, the squat will not count. Ray Williams just missed a 950 raw squat because of this.
- If at any time during the lift, the bar moves downwards, on either side, or both, the lift will be disqualified. The bar can stall in a certain spot, but it may not move downwards.
- Also, please note that if you choose to dump the bar, either over your head or off of your back, you will likely be disqualified from the event entirely. If you start to fail, ask the spotters to help and STAY WITH THE BAR. I’ll say it one more time: dropping the bar is grounds for complete disqualification from the contest.
Watch this video for some real world examples of each of the above rules:
There are also a few equipment considerations. Your knee sleeves, or knee wraps, may not touch your singlet or the lift will not count. You must have the straps of your singlet up when you step onto the platform. I almost lost a squat opener because of this rule. Luckily, I walked away with only a warning. Remember, your shoe heels can’t be taller than two inches. Refer to Part II for more on powerlifting shoes.
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Everyone’s favourite pooches will soon be on show at the Emirates thanks to Arsenal fan group REDaction.
We are of course talking about Atom and Humber - the two dogs owned by Alexis Sanchez.
The golden retrievers have become an internet sensation, with the 28-year-old regular sharing posts of himself with them on Instagram. He has even created their own account which has more than 65,000 followers.
So with the forward nearing the end of his contract, one fan jokingly put forward the idea of creating a banner in a bid to help keep Sanchez in north London.
The idea quickly caught on and REDaction have revealed the two designs - and are looking for help in meeting the £500 costs as they look to get them in place before the home game against Burnley on January 22.
The fan group said: “Obviously, this is just a bit of fun, and we suggest that nobody takes this subject too seriously.
“No one is suggesting this will make Alexis sign a new contract and stay at Arsenal, that is just ridiculous, so just enjoy the banners.” | fineweb_edu |
[this article was written for the Unz Review]
There are two names which often trigger a very strong and hostile reaction from many Russians: Alexander Solzhenitsyn and Vladimir Rezun aka “Viktor Suvorov”. The list of accusations against these two men usually includes:
• Alexander Solzhenitsyn: he made up numbers about 66 million people killed by the Soviet regime, he spoke favorably of General Andrei Vlasov, he was a CIA stooge, he was an anti-Semite, a Russian nationalist and a monarchist. Finally, there is a popular saying in modern Russia: “show me an anti-Soviet activist (“антисовечик”) and I will show you a russophobe” (which makes Solzhenitsyn a russophobe).
• Vladimir Rezun: he is a traitor, he is the creator of the theory that Hitler only preempted a Soviet attack which Stalin was about to launch, he is a MI-6 front to spread russophobic theories.
What I like to do when I hear these opinions is to ask a simple question: how many books by Solzhenitsyn and/or Rezun have you actually read?
The answer is typically rather nebulous. They mostly refer to either one or two books (at most) and a number of articles (often articles not even written by either author, but paraphrasing, often rather “creatively”).
This reminds me of an old Soviet joke: “a Party official comes to some factory or office to deliver a political lecture and absolutely tears into Solzhenitsyn’s famous “Gulag Archipelago” calling it an ugly collection of lies. One of the workers present asks the Party official whether he read the entire book to which the Party official replies “I don’t read such anti-Soviet filth!”
There is much truth to that as I have rarely encountered Solzhenitsyn-haters who actually read at least a few books by him.
Well, it just so happens that I discovered Solzhenitsyn when I was 16 and that I continued to study his writings for the rest of my life. Over the next years and decades, I read every single book and article Solzhenitsyn wrote several times (at least twice, if not more). As for Rezun, I read all his non-fiction books (I don’t like his fiction at all), so I want to chime in here and share with you, the reader, my strictly personal opinion about these two authors and men.
First, I will begin with a couple of general comments.
For one thing, both Solzhenitsyn and Rezun are terrific writers and it is a crying shame not to read them! Their styles are, however, dramatically different: Solzhenitsyn is often compared to Dostoevskii, and rightfully so, even if this applies more to contents and worldview than style. I would say that Solzhenitsyn’s style is unique and very uneven. His masterpiece is, at least in my opinion, the “Gulag Archipelago” (the worst being his poems). Yes, I know, this is a non-fiction book and not one of his purely literary masterpieces (say like “The Cancer Ward” or “In The First Circle“), but I personally happen to find the Gulag Archipelago his most powerful book not only on contents, but also on style and language. His other masterpiece is, again in my totally subjective opinion, his immense cycle “The Red Wheel“, especially “August 14” and “October 16“. On the other end of the spectrum, I also love his short stories (“Крохотки”). By any halfway objective measure, the man is a literary giant on par with Tolstoy or Dostoevskii.
Nobody would say that about Rezun. His style could be described as “pedestrian” if not outright “yellow” (in the meaning of “yellow journalism”). But that is not a problem. What Rezun lacks in elegance and academic rigor, he more than makes up for with a very lively and entertaining writing style, some really catchy ideas and a lot of “creative nonsense”. I have no problem with somebody hating Rezun as a person and traitor, or hating his vulgar style, but don’t tell me that he does not write well: millions of people read his books with immense fascination and appreciation. The man has undeniable talent.
The above is just to point out that those who say that they have not read these authors because they hate their style are most likely not being very honest and it is much more likely that they did not read these authors because of the contents of their books. That is what we shall look into next. Specifically, I will look at Alexander Solzhenitsyn first, he is the more complex one of the two, and then at Rezun.
Alexander Solzhenitsyn
The very first thing we need to remember is that Solzhenitsyn was born in 1918, which means that he was raised by a generation of Russians which remembered pre-1917 Russia. The second thing which we need to also keep in mind is that he was raised by a generation which remembered the chaos of the Kerenskii regime followed by the bloodbath of the Bolshevik coup which itself was following by the bloody orgy of the Russian civil war.
Why is that important?
Because his brand of anti-Sovietism was much more similar to what we would see in the White Guard or the First Generation Russian emigration (those roughly 2 million Russians who left Russia following the Bolshevik coup). For example, this is why Solzhenitsyn wrote so much about the role of Jews in the first Bolshevik governments: this is a topic which was central to the wordview of White Guard and First Generation Russian emigres.
It is also pretty clear that while Solzhenitsyn already had anti-Soviet feelings before he was arrested, it is nonetheless obvious that his incarceration first in a labor camp and, later, into a special jail for scientists exposed Solzhenitsyn to even more anti-Soviet individuals and ideas.
Of course, none of that excuses any false figures (or misguided political opinions) Solzhenitsyn might have had, but it does explain where they came from and why Solzhenitsyn deemed them as credible. Speaking personally, I was raised in exactly that “White Guard” and “First Emigration” political culture, and I can assure you that Solzhenitsyn’s views were really very much “mainstream” amongst those Russians who still remembered pre-revolutionary Russia.
Next, Solzhenitsyn himself described how he asked all his fellow prisoners (the “zeks” he speaks of in the Gulag Archipelago) to send him all the historical documents, memoirs, academic papers, etc. possible for him to write the history of the Gulag. Needless to say, the Soviet archives were not made open for this purpose, nor did the KGB offer to write an amicus brief to help Solzhenitsyn.
Thus, just to recap: what is important here were Solzhenitsyn’s sources of information:
• Pre-1917 Russians who remembered the horrors of the revolution and civil war
• White Guard & First Wave Emigre memoirs and articles
• Exposure to those arrested for anti-Soviet activities (the famous Art 58), whether guilty or innocent, and who were incarcerated with Solzhenitsyn
• Articles by western scholars, political figures, think tanks (aka “western propaganda”).
Is it a big surprise that Solzhenitsyn did get a lot of things wrong, especially when the Soviet state offered very little in terms of credible historical information?
[Sidebar1: here I have to insert a rather lengthy side bar about the nature of the Soviet state. It is my opinion that over its history the Soviet regime changed rather often and rather dramatically. Personally, I would offer the following chronology:
1. The early years: (1917-1922). The Bolshevik coup, then the civil war followed by the great Jewish terror of Iagoda, Frenkel, Ezhov, etc. the years of the so-called “war communism”, the NEP, and the collectivization, famine and “dekulakisation” (1932-1933). This period ended with the so-called “Stalin’s purges” (1936-1938).
2. Stalin’s preparation for WWII: (1936-1941). During this period most of the Bolshevik “old guard” was either executed, or jailed or demoted and a completely new generation of commanders (“Stalin’s generals”), were put into all key military and civilian positions.
3. The Great Patriotic War: (1941-1945). This dramatic period which saw the Russian nation fight for her very survival also saw a truly dramatic change in political culture: the former Bolshevik russophobia was replaced with praise for the heroic Russian nation, military ranks were fully reestablished (along with traditional Russian epaulets), churches were reopened and the repressions dramatically reduced.
4. The post-war period and Stalin’s last years: 1945-1961. This period saw a quasi-miraculous rebirth of the Soviet Union from the ashes of WWII and a period of prosperity and stability. While Stalin was probably murdered by his entourage in 1953 and his main executioner (Lavrentii Beria) executed soon thereafter (also in 1953), their legacy of prosperity and stability lasted well beyond the 22nd CPSU Congress which saw Khrushchev make a 180 and suddenly denounce Stalin, the cult of his personality and the rehabilitation of millions of innocent Russians.
5. The Great Betrayal (1961-1964): Khrushchev was the worst, most immoral, incompetent, hypocritical, inept and otherwise despicable Soviet leader ever (Eltsin was in the same league, imnsho). He was also a bloody tyrant. Yet, possibly to conceal his own incompetence and his rabid hatred for Stalin, he did liberalize the Soviet Union to a not-insignificant degree, yet just like in the case of Gorbachev’s “glastnost'” – his “new openness” did not help the Soviet Union, far from it. Eventually, Krushchev himself was overthrown by Brezhnev but by then it was already too late: while until 1961 most (or, at least, many) Russians did believe in the ideal of Marxism-Leninism and trusted their leaders, after the shock of the 22nd CPSU Party Congress a period of deep disillusionment gradually set in. (It would only really stop in 2000!).
6. The slow-motion deconstruction of the Soviet state, followed by the inevitable collapse: 1964-1991. Most of us remember Brezhnev. Some probably also remember Andropov. Does anybody even remember Chernenko? Then came “Gorbi” and, for a few hours, Ianaev (of the GKChP 1991 coup) and then the Soviet Union was declared dead.
What is crucial to understand here is that each of these six periods generated a very different popular and political culture. Thus, while in the West you often would hear generalizations about “the Soviets”, the truth is that there never once was any one single monolithic Soviet culture. The perfect example of sharp contrast would be to compare the generation which went through the horrors of the Early Years period with the generation which defeated the Nazi war machine and then put the first man in space.
In the case of Solzhenitsyn he was very much a product of the Early Years and should be evaluated against this historical background and not under the kind of criteria a modern professional historian with full access to many preciously secret archives would have.]
Next, we need to take a look at the accusation that Solzhenitsyn’s was an apologist for General Vlasov.
The short answer is that yes, Solzhenitsyn did justify General Vlasov’s betrayal of his oath by saying that the Soviet Union had betrayed Vlasov long before Vlasov betrayed the Soviet Union. Furthermore, there is no doubt that Solzhenitsyn did absolutely hate Stalin whom he considered as a vicious mass murderer. How could he not approve of somebody taking up arms against Stalin? Solzhenitsyn’s conclusion was that if the Russian people had not seized this opportunity to overthrow the Soviet regime, then they really would have proven to the world that they are passive slaves.
[Sidebar2: one of the goals Solzhenitsyn set for himself when he wrote the Gulag Archipelago was to debunk a popular western theory which goes something like this: “Russians have never known freedom and they don’t care about it. Russians have a slave mentality and all they want is some kind of dictator (Czar or Commissar – makes no difference to them) to rule over them with an iron fist“. One of the things which Solzhenitsyn set out to prove was that far from being passive or slave-like, the Russian people resisted the Bolshevik regime at least until 1946! What does he mean by that? He refers to the fact that between 1917 and 1941, the Soviet regime was constantly threatened by all sorts of enemies (from monarchists to Trotskysts) and that following the Nazi invasion of the USSR, the Russian people simply seized this opportunity to rise up again against the Bolsheviks. From this point of view, the entire Vlasov phenomenon is nothing else but a continuation of the civil war. To summarize, when western russophobos liked to gloat about Russians having a slave mentality (they did a lot of them, especially the so-called “Russian/Soviet area specialists” Solzhenitsyn’s intention was to debunk this calumny and reply “oh yes, we did resist, for all of 30 years! You (meaning the folks in the West), in contrast, not only presented very little resistance to the Nazis, most of you became faithful and obedient servants of Hitler! The reality is that we, Russians, are far more freedom loving than you are, this is why we cannot be occupied and why it is so hard to rule over us.]
While I personally cannot justify Vlasov’s betrayal of his oath, I do fundamentally agree that the Soviet regime only achieved full power and security for itself after the end of the war.
Whatever may be the case, does that really surprise anybody that Solzhenitsyn had such views? Such views were, in fact, quite common amongst those who still remembered pre-1917 Russia. In many ways, Solzhenitsyn was a pure product of the political culture of the Early Years of the Soviet regime and I personally see him as culturally much closer to the pre-1917 Russians than to the Russians which were raised already under the Soviet regime.
That does not mean that Solzhenitsyn did not get some facts, even crucial ones, very wrong.
[Sidebar3: it is all well and fun to comfortably sit in our chairs and criticize those who have been wrong in their past, but fundamentally this is both logically wrong and morally hypocritical. The truth is that history, ALL history, very much including our recent history, is chock full with myths, generalizations, simplifications, rumors and, most of all, lies. We all know about 9/11, but that is hardly a unique example. Does anybody remember the “Timisoara massacre” or, even better, the “Srebrenica genocide”? Speaking of Srebrenica, how about the no less fake “massacres” in Markale or Racak? How about Colonel Gaddafi giving Viagra to his men to rape Libyan women? Or this innocent young nurse from Kuwait who reported about the Iraqis tossing babies out of incubators?
These were all lies.
And then, there are the much more serious cases, including the historical truth about the so-called “Holocaust”. Or, who carries the responsibility for starting WWII? How about the Nuremberg Trials which some hailed as a huge victory for civilized mankind, while many others called it a “kangaroo court” of victors. What about the Tribunal on the Former Yugoslavia? Do you feel that this was a superb example of justice, or a crude Serbian-nation bashing PR operation?
If we can’t even agree on our recent history, do you really expect people from very different time periods (as all Russians today are, depending on their age), to agree on history, even crucial history?
Of course not!
So what we need to do now is not “smoke out” this or that personality and accuse them of lying (that would be a typically *Soviet* thing to do: to denounce a supposed enemy and demand that he be punished and silenced). We first need to consider what this person knew and did not know at the time that he/she wrote/said what we now consider lies. To err is human, and is therefore excusable. To deliberately lie is something quite different].
In the case of Solzhenitsyn, there is absolutely no evidence of deliberate deception on his part. In fact, the 66 million number is not even his. As I already pointed out in the past:
The first thing we can note here is that while Prof Kurganov tried to arrive at a “grand max” figure, the Soviet archives (which show dramatically lower numbers of people arrested and/or executed) only dealt with the number of people actually sentenced under Soviet law and does not include the specific events Kurganov chose to include.
Thus, directly comparing Kurganov’s figures with official Soviet documents is a case of apples and oranges.
Still, Solzhenitsyn clearly loathed the Bolsheviks and the Soviet regime and that most likely made him willing to accept facts and figures which he should have checked much more carefully.
There is also a lot of evidence that, ideologically speaking, Solzhenitsyn was a monarchist in the general line of Fedor Dostoevskii, Lev Tikhomirov or Prof. Ivan Ilyin (whom Putin seems to also quote very often…) and that he had an intense dislike, not only for Marxism or Leninism, but even for “moderate” social democracy (which he saw as unable to stand up to the Soviet Union and its allies). We also know for sure that Solzhenitsyn had nothing good to say about western democracies or the capitalist worldview. However, Solzhenitsyn was hardly a typical “reactionary” since he had very little good to say about the pre-1917 Russia, including its last Czar. In truth, Solzhenitsyn was a typical Russian idealist who combined rather liberal, and even modernist, views about the Russian Orthodox Church with a rather strong dislike of the political system put in place by Peter I (often called “The Great” by westernizers). In fact, I would argue that there are at least three different “Solzhenitsyns” which need to be considered separately:
Solzhenitsyn the author: here it is a matter of personal taste. He did get a Nobel in literature, but we all understand that the Nobel Committee is just a front for the AngloZionist PR machine. Personally? He is one of my favorite Russian authors along with, in a totally different style, Sergei Lukianenko.
Solzhenitsyn the historian: here every single word he wrote needs to be revisited and carefully evaluated in light of what we now think that we know. This is especially true of his Gulag Archipelago which Solzhenitsyn referred to as an “An Experiment in Literary Investigation” thus clearly indicating that this was, by definition, a work in progress, an experiment, and an investigation. As I recently wrote, there is no worthwhile history which is not revisionist, and with Solzhenitsyn being both so famous and so wrong, it is only natural that his writings are the object of a concerted barrage of criticisms and reevaluation.
Solzhenitsyn the philosopher: yet again a case for personal taste. I would argue that Alexander Solzhenitsyn is a giant standing on the shoulders of other giants such as Khomiakov, Dostoevskii, IlIlyinyin, Solonevich, Leontiev, Tikhomirov, Rozanov and many others. Right now his philosophical legacy is completely obfuscated by the historical discussions, but that pendulum will eventually swing the other way, and then his moral philosophy will be studied on its merits.
Right now, these are not good times for “Solzhenitsyn studies”, to say the least. In the West he is hated as Great-Russian nationalist and an anti-Semitic monarchist while in Russia is hated like a russophobic CIA stooge who calumniated his own people and who defended a traitor like Vlasov. These beliefs are ingrained way too hard for me to even bother trying to discuss them here. That discussion will happen, but only once the stridently anti-Solzhenitsyn haters will give way to folks with a better personal knowledge of what Solzhenitsyn actually wrote and what he actually meant. Right now most of his detractors are busy simply flaming the man, everything he wrote and all those who read him.
[Sidebar4: while he was in exile in Cavendish, VT, Solzhenitsyn once told a visiting friend of mine the following: “right now, we don’t have our own country under our feet, this is why it is too early to write on this topic (he was referring to a then still secret book of his which he eventually published after his return to Russia under the title “200 Years Together“), but as soon as Russia recovers her freedom, I will publish this book“. I will paraphrase this by saying that I believe that as long as the former Soviet elites and their off-springs occupy most of the key positions in modern Russia, no serious discussion about Solzhenitsyn will be possible, the level of emotional involvement is simply too high. But that too shall pass. There is already a generation of young Russians out there which does not even remember the Soviet era or the Cold War. It is *their* kids, and even grand-kids, who will, one day, give a fair historical evaluation of this intellectual giant. Right now, modern Russia still lives “in the shadows” of the former Soviet Union. But, sooner or later, Russia will come out from this shadow – that is when Solzhenitsyn’s views will become front and center again]
There is one more thing about Solzhenitsyn I want to share with you: in his pamphlet “Our Pluralists” Solzhenitsyn concludes his essay against Russian “liberals” and “democrats” (in the Russian meaning of the word) by the following words: “we thought you were fresh, but you are still the same“. I often think of this sentence when I read the writings of the Solzhenitsyn haters. During the Soviet period the Solzhenitsyn haters liked to refer to him as “Solzhenitser” (hinting that he might be a Jew). Nowadays, Solzhenitsyn haters in Russia refer to him as SoLZHEnitsyn (the letters “lzhe” means “lie” in Russian, suggesting that he is a liar). That tells you all you need to know about the degree of sophistication these folks are capable of…
Now let’s look at our other traitor,
Vladimir Rezun aka “Viktor Suvorov”
Vladimir Rezun, who writes under the pen name “Viktor Suvorov”, also wrote a lot of books, but that is where his similarity to Solzhenitsyn ends. For one thing, Rezun is from a much later generation, he was born 30 years after Solzhenitsyn, and his formative years were in the 1960s, during Khrushchev’s “Great Betrayal”. Obviously, Rezun did not live through the war, nor during the glorious post-war years. The other big difference between the two men is that while Alexander Solzhenitsyn was forcibly sent into exile, Rezun defected and that defection was officially voluntary (there are some indirect signs suggesting that he was kidnapped in Geneva by the British – I consider both versions equally credible). Then he became a typical defector, let me explain what I mean by that.
I have met quite a few defectors in my life (and quite a few potential defectors who eventually decided not to defect). Here is the typical chronology of what happens to defectors (and here is the reason why I always strongly advised all Soviets against defecting):
1. First, you are a “hot potato”. Usually, nowhere nearly as hot as you like to pretend as defectors all need to “sell” themselves to their new masters (that is, indeed, what western officials become for them) so they almost always grossly over-state their opposition to the Soviet regime, how important they were before they defected and how useful they will be now. This does not work very long as western debriefers pretty rapidly can establish who and what the new defector really was in the past and what he/she really knows. After that, these defectors are typically provided with some means of living and typically forgotten.
2. Next, you try to impress the general public. The best way to achieve that is for you to write a best seller. Then another one, then one more. That very rarely works for a simple reason: whatever of interest the defector had to say typically comes out in the first, rarely in a second book. After that, the “publicity shock value” imagination tank is empty and defectors typically begin to make up nonsense. That nonsense typically gets worse with each subsequent book. Except for a few diehard commie-haters nobody takes these silly books seriously and the once “hot potato” defector becomes a total nobody, forgotten by all (here I think of that SOB Kalugin for example).
3. Eventually, defectors experience a mental collapse, followed by years of substance abuse and, very often, suicide. They realize that nobody needs or cares about them; they realize that their former bosses have long forgotten about them, as have their new bosses too. They have no friends, mostly deeply dysfunctional love affairs which end in disaster, their families often turn away from them and, last but not least, they miss the people and country which they have betrayed and left.
In the case of Rezun he wrote his first best-seller in 1982 entitled “Inside the Soviet Army” which was very entertaining (he had another book before that, “The Liberators” 1981, but it was not that successful). Then, in 1985, he wrote “The Aquarium“, a rather bad and sensationalist book about the Soviet military intelligence service, the GRU. Then came 1987 and one of Rezun’s worst books: Spetsnaz, a collection of nonsensical invented stories which was a flop. By then, Rezun clearly had a problem. But being a very intelligent man, Rezun came up with a brilliant idea.
It all began with a short 1985 article followed, in 1988, by the Russian edition of his most famous book, “Icebreaker” (“Ледокол”) in which Rezun, writing as “Viktor Suvorov” claimed he has had evidence that Stalin was about to attack Nazi Germany and that Hitler had no choice but to strike first. His evidence? Lots of things, hundreds of claims, ranging from the somewhat credible to the outright silly. I won’t go into all of them here (lots of excellent historians have already done that – I think of Col. Ret David Glantz’s superb books). I will just mention one which I find particularly galling: Rezun claims that the Soviet military had plans to attack Germany and that various Russian units had even received special glossaries to allow them to speak to the folks they were planning on attacking: the Germans.
I am quite sure that the Soviets had plans to attack Germany. In fact, I am also sure that the Soviets had plans to attack most, if not all, of their neighbors. If not, the entire Soviet General Staff ought to have to been shot (again!). Why? Because that is what the military does in peacetime: prepare for war: including both defensive and offensive operations. Think for yourself: what if you were a Soviet general and you were suddenly summoned to Stalin’s late night working sessions and Stalin asked you “what are our plans to liberate the German workers and peasants from the Nazi regime and how long would such a war last if we attack first?“. Can you imagine yourself replying, “Comrade Stalin, we have no such plans!“? I think that you would die of shame, and possibly fear, even before meeting “your” firing squad. Remember the Soviet-Polish war of 1919-1920 or the Soviet-Finnish war of 1939-1940? They are not exactly known for being stunning successes (though Rezun does have some very interesting views on the latter, but they are not within the scope of this article). So, OF COURSE, the Soviets did have plans for war against Germany, just as Russia today has a plan to destroy the USA (which also has such a plan of its own!). The existence of such plans does most emphatically NOT prove that the leaders of Russia or the USA have the actual intention to attack each other! As for “Russian-German” pocket glossaries, that is just what military linguists mostly do when not at war. Trust me, I used to be one such a linguist – a Sprachspezialist in German – and I even saw “German-Chinese” glossaries! Yet these hardly indicate that Switzerland was planning to invade China, right?!
Did Rezun successfully prove his case? Depends whom you ask, of course. I am not a military historian and I think that this issue should be researched by professional historians, not amateurs like myself. What I do emphatically state is that I think that Rezun’s books should be read and discussed. What I find plain stupid, is what a few Russian TV news shows have done: first, they denounce Rezun as a traitor which he probably was (unless he was kidnapped, of course), but which is also a total non-sequitur. Then they interview his former colleagues who describe his horrible personal character (incompetent, alcoholic, generally disliked) but they fail to explain how such a terrible person, and an incompetent one to boot, managed to get a position in one of the most prestigious GRU “rezidenturas” in the West (the Soviets also did exactly the same with Oleg Kalugin who was assigned to the KGB rezidentura in Washington, DC, no less!). Then, in what they probably imagine as a coup de grâce, they get on a soapbox and proclaim that Rezun’s views are extremely offensive and that he must be a MI6 agent which, whether true or not, is also entirely irrelevant as a book or a historical theory ought be judged on its intrinsic merits, or lack thereof, not on the character of its author.
This is especially true of Rezun for another, special, reason. Long AFTER he wrote his books about how Stalin wanted to attack Germany, Rezun wrote an absolutely amazing historical book entitled “The Purification” (“Очищение”) in which he not only revisits Stalin’s purges but in which he brilliantly defends them. If you understand Russian I urge you to read the book (you can download it in Russian and for free here). The key thesis of the book is as follows: Stalin understood that the first generation of Bolsheviks were superbly skilled at massacring innocent civilians in huge numbers, but as military commanders they were big fat ZEROs (including Marshal Tukhachevskii whom folks in the West always present as some kind of military genius – which he sure was not!). Furthermore, by the mid-1930s Soviet Russia was really cracking and almost collapsing due the hatred most Russians have for their persecutors and torturers, thus while the bloody purge of the Secret Police and Party was seen by these elites (and their Trotskyst supporters abroad) as a “horrible purge”, for most common people this purge must have looked like a liberation and justified execution of the worst of the worst of the Bolshevik monsters. Furthermore, Rezun makes very interesting comparisons between Stalin’s generals and Hitler’s – and he concludes that Stalin had a much better lot (towards the end of the war, Hitler agreed, by the way). I find that thesis very compelling and I hope that one day “The Purification” will be translated into English.
None of the above should be interpreted as a defense of Rezun or, for that matter, Stalin. In the case of Rezun, I am not defending him at all, I am only deploring that he is vilified and dismissed, rather than critically read. As for Stalin himself, I described my personal feelings about the man in my essay “The Controversy About Stalin – a “basket” of Preliminary Considerations“, so I don’t need to repeat myself here.
Conclusion: Vladimir Putin as an example to emulate?
Vladimir Putin is often accused of being nostalgic of the Soviet Union and of wanting to recreate it.
Nothing could be further from the truth!
It is true that Putin declared several times that the collapse of the Soviet Union was “the biggest geopolitical catastrophe of the century” (“крупнейшая геополитическая катастрофа века”). What Putin was referring to was not some kind of nostalgia for the Soviet Union, but an acute realization of the unspeakable suffering the collapse of the Soviet Union meant for millions of people.
In fact, Putin has exactly *zero* nostalgia for the bad old USSR and he is not shy about speaking his mind about it, especially when he is confronted by those who now idealize the Soviet era. Not only that, but Putin has very publicly shown his immense respect for Solzhenitsyn. And the feeling was very mutual as we can tell from this photo:
Contrast this with Putin’s often publicly expressed disgust with defectors!
See, for example, what Putin declared during an interview with the British Financial Times: (emphasis added)
As a matter of fact, treason is the gravest crime possible and traitors must be punished. I am not saying that the Salisbury incident is the way to do it. Not at all. But traitors must be punished. This gentleman, Skripal, had already been punished. He was arrested, sentenced and then served time in prison. He received his punishment. For that matter, he was off the radar. Why would anybody be interested in him? He got punished. He was detained, arrested, sentenced and then spent five years in prison. Then he was released and that was it. As concerns treason, of course, it must be punishable. It is the most despicable crime that one can imagine.
By the way, this suggests that Putin does not share Solzhenitsyn’s sympathy for General Vlasov proving, yet again, that a critical mind can always separate the chaff from the wheat.
Vladimir Putin lays flowers on the grave of Ivan Illyin
Then there is the way Putin likes to mention Ivan Ilyin in his speeches. It is pretty obvious to me that in terms of his personal views on history and politics, Putin is clearly an avid reader of both Ilyin and Solzhenitsyn (which creates a cognitive dissonance amongst Solzhenitsyn-haters who support Putin). However, that in no way implies that Putin endorses or agrees with everything Solzhenitsyn or Ilyin wrote or said. But it does show that not all minds in Russia are still “under the shadow of the Soviet Union”.
But change is inevitable.
First, the pendulum of history will swing the other way, and a lot of ideas which seem popular today are bound to gradually fade out, replaced by hopefully a much more careful evaluation of historical figures like Solzhenitsyn. Second, a lot of people who were raised in a blind hatred of “traitors” will simply pass away, while their descendants will not have the same knee-jerk reactions. Last, but most definitely not least, the future Russia will have to rediscover her historical, philosophical, spiritual and cultural roots, at which point the ideas of philosophers like Solzhenitsyn or Ilyin will automatically get center stage once again (though not necessarily to be uncritically endorsed).
The Saker
The Essential Saker IV: Messianic Narcissism's Agony by a Thousand Cuts | dclm_edu |
13.7 Corrosion and Combustion
Electroplating to Protect Metals
Electroplating is the process whereby energy is used to force a metal to give up electrons. The metal ions that form then pick up electrons at some surface where they reform the metal atoms and thus form a thin coat of metal. Duration: 5:52.
Mobile Link: http://bcove.me/w86zxb2x
Combustion: Oxidation of Nonmetals
Combustion is a process whereby a nonmetallic material, such as paper, oxidizes (loses electrons) with the release of lots of energy. Typically, the reagent responsible for gaining the electrons is the oxygen in our atmosphere. Duration: 7:45.
Mobile Link: http://bcove.me/7f486mle | dclm_edu |
7.6. Privileged instructions
The coprocessor can restrict certain instructions for use in priv ileged modes only. To do this, the coprocessor must track the nCPTRANS output. Figure 7.6 shows how nCPTRANS changes after a mode change.
Figure 7.6. ARM922T privileged instructions
In Figure 7.6 the mode change (marked with an asterisk) occurs as follows:
The first two CHSDE[1:0] responses are ignored by the ARM922T because it is only the final CHSDE[1:0] response, as the instruction moves from Decode into Execute, that is relevant. This allows the coprocessor to change its response as nCPTRANS changes.
| dclm_edu |
The Hula
Outer Voices – Hear the Hula Lessonhula_hoike
LAKA: Tame, domesticated, fond of, attracted to, to tame, domesticate, or attract
Perhaps people in Hawai`i know Laka best as divine patroness of hula, one of whose precincts is at Ke`e, Kaua’i (for more information on this site, see the section on Keahualaka). As a kino lau (manifestation) of Lono, god of rain and fertility, she presides over the forest plants with which po`e hula (hula people) adorn themselves and the altar that occupied a position of honor in a traditional halau hula.
There is more to this process than simply making people or places look pretty. In hula protocol, the various Laka plants, mostly native forest flora, represented both divine personages and qualities sought by students of hula. Thus, for example, a haumana who needed strength and stamina might wear a lei koa or bring a branch of koa to the halau altar as an expression of her/his need for this quality.
Here, also, the meaning of Laka as tame comes into play. Learning hula is a process of taming the undisciplined body, spirit and mind, the forest personality. To Hawaiians of old, the forest could be physically and spiritually dangerous. In it people could get lost, hurt, or killed; in it lived supernatural beings who were not always friendly. The opposite of its chaos was the tightly ordered space within the halau. Thus the chant with which our haumana ask permission to enter the halau begins, “Liu liu wale i ka uka….long (have I wandered) in the upland forest…” The student’s physical passage from forest to halau reflects her/his mental transition from wild child to poised adult.
It also represents the development of a social consciousness. As the vast and trackless forest symbolizes the untutored child mind, wandering where it will, so the halau reflects organized human communities. Harmonious living with other people requires patience, courtesy, and aloha. Since haumana hula, like canoe voyagers, shared a small confined space, they had to live these qualities. Impulsive and inconsiderate behaviour brought punishment from halau officials whose job was to enforce rules. There was no place for people who refused to learn discipline or to accept the kumu’s authority. However physically gifted they might be, they would never really become dancers.
Dancing demands physical and spiritual poise. This balance requires equilibrium between strength and grace, masculine and feminine qualities, male and female persons. A feature of traditional halau hula that distinguished them from Hawaiian society in general, wherein the men and women occupied distinct spheres, and which allowed considerable sexual liberty, was that men and women lived together chastely. Sexual contact was forbidden, and could bring expulsion from the halau. Certainly for young, attractive members of a culture that did not place a premium on abstinence sharing the confines of a halau would demand great restraint. Such discipline is one aspect of Laka.
On the hula altar (kuahu), Laka presides in her kino lau of a lama (Diospyros sandwicensis) block wrapped in yellow tapa. One meaning of lama is light, and Laka’s representation in this form represents the enlightenment to be found through the discipline of dance.
As so often in Hawaiian metaphysics, this apparently simple form comprehends a whole thicket of ideas. Unlike such light woods as hau and wiliwili, lama, a member of the ebony family, is both pale and dense. This unusual blend, perhaps another form of the combined delicacy and hardness of the ‘ohi`a lehua (also a Laka aspect), expresses a duality often visualized as the goddesses Laka and Kapo.
Beckwith (HAWAIIAN MYTHOLOGY p. 185) cites Emerson’s statement that Kapo gives birth to Laka, and suggests that, as descendants of Haumea, the divine mother of earthly life, these females embody two aspects of reproductive energy. This correlates with Laka (the tame, attractive one) taking form as a wood that embodies light, while Kapo (the darkness) becomes the `ohe (Reynoldsia sandwicensis), a poison tree that sprang up in a single night on Molokai’s Mauna Loa (Beckwith p. 111). In Polynesian thought, Po, the primordial darkness, precedes and engenders Ao, light. So Kapo, in this cosmology, precedes and gives birth to Laka.
As divine patron of lua, the martial art for which hula was the Laka form, and sorcery, Kapo’s character appears sinister. Yet both lua and sorcery have their constructive aspects. Lua experts were equally adept at bone-breaking and bone-setting, while sorcerers could use their powers both to destroy and to protect.
In one view, Kapo plays Ku, god of change, fire, war, and sorcery, to Laka’s Lono. This seems an oversimplification. Ku and Lono seem rather to be two aspects of a single power. It is not always obvious where one begins and the other ends. As the end of Lono’s temporal domain, the Makahiki season, and the beginning of Ku’s is not always easy to recognize, so with Laka and Kapo.
Since the annual Merrie Monarch competitions began in the early 1960’s, the terms hula kahiko (ancient dances) and hula auana (literally wandering dances; the term refers to hula which has “wandered” from its ancient rituals and roots, i.e. dances accompanied by instruments and incorporating ideas introduced after contact with Europeans began in 1778) have come into common use. These originated as categories for competitors, but have become so popular that they have affected modern hula teaching and performance.
hula_3dancersIf you look at films or programs of hula from the early to middle twentieth century, you will notice that they usually do not distinguish “ancient” from ‘modern” dances. From the Kalakaua period in the last quarter of the nineteenth century until the mid-twentieth century, the prevailing style was, as early as 1865, called HULA KU`I or joined hula. Reflecting the increasingly cosmopolitan character of Hawaiian culture during this era, hula ku`i blended traditional Hawaiian music and choreography with melodies and movements adopted from sources such as Europe. In more recent times, the evolution of Hawaiian reggae, rap, and Jawaiian music has continued this process of assimilation.
It is interesting that the Merrie Monarch festival, named for King David Kalakaua, and founded to preserve hula as an indigenous Hawaiian art form, has departed from the hula ku`i popular during his reign. Nowadays, as a result of Merrie Monarch influence, it is common to begin a performance with a suite of hula that are either of ancient lineage or are modern compositions
created and performed in the ancient style, accompanied by chanting and drumming. Often they will finish this segment, leave the performance space, perhaps change their costumes, and then return to dance in the modern manner, accompanied by guitar, `ukulele and other non-native instruments.
HULA KU: Dances performed standing up.
HULA MA`I: Procreation dances. Frequently the mele which these hula illustrate honor the ma`i (genitals) of royal personages. Since continuity of leadership was important to social stability, it was imperative that Hawaiian ali`i (chiefs) replace themselves in an orderly way. For this to happen, their reproductive faculties needed to be in good working order. Therefore the hula ma`i express hope for the future of, not just the chiefly class, but the people as a whole.
HULA NOHO: Dances performed in a seated or kneeling posture. Usually the dancers provide their own vocal acompaniment.
OLI: Chant unaccompanied by dance
MELE: Chants and songs that accompany dances. The word mele can apply to both ancient and modern compositions.
HO`OPA`A: to make fast, firm, hard, solid, to memorize, study, learn; hula drummer and chanter (Puku`i and Elbert, HAWAIIAN DICTIONARY p. 296)
`OLAPA: To flash, blaze suddenly 2. Several varieties of native trees in the genus Cheirodendron 3. Dancer, as contrasted with the chanter or ho`opa`a. (ibid p. 283)
HALAU: Long house, as for canoes or hula instruction 2. Large, numerous (ibid p. 52). In modern usage, HALAU HULA can refer to a physical location where hula instruction takes place, or to a group of hula students. Please note, the popular phrase HULA HALAU is not good Hawaiian usage.
HAUMANA: Student, apprentice. | dclm_edu |
Also called Myoneural Junction, the neuromuscular junction is the site of chemical communication between a nerve fibre and a muscle cell. It is analogous to the synapse between two neurons. A nerve fibre divides into many terminal branches, each terminal ending on a region of muscle fibre called the end-plate. Embedded in the end-plate are thousands of receptors, which are long protein molecules that form channels through the membrane. Upon stimulation by a nerve impulse, the terminal releases a chemical neurotransmitter (acetylcholine) from spheres called synaptic vesicles. The neurotransmitter then binds to the receptors, the channels open, and sodium ions flow into the end-plate. This initiates the end-plate potential, the electric event that leads to contraction of the muscle fibre. | fineweb_edu |
// Copyright (c) 2017-2023, Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLC and
// other Axom Project Developers. See the top-level LICENSE file for details.
//
// SPDX-License-Identifier: (BSD-3-Clause)
#include "gtest/gtest.h"
#include "axom/core/numerics/matvecops.hpp"
#include "axom/core/utilities/Utilities.hpp"
namespace
{
/*!
* \brief Checks if the given two vectors are equal.
*
* \param [in] u rhs vector to compare
* \param [in] v lhs vector to compare
* \param [in] N the size of the vector
*/
void expect_vector_eq(const double* u, const double* v, int N)
{
for(int i = 0; i < N; ++i)
{
EXPECT_DOUBLE_EQ(u[i], v[i]);
}
}
} /* end anonymous namespace */
//------------------------------------------------------------------------------
// UNIT TESTS FOR MATRIX OPS
//------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TEST(numerics_matvecops, check_invalid_matrix_addition)
{
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> A(2, 2);
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> B(3, 3);
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> C(3, 3);
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> C2(3, 3);
EXPECT_FALSE(axom::numerics::matrix_add(A, B, C));
EXPECT_EQ(C.getNumColumns(), 1);
EXPECT_EQ(C.getNumRows(), 1);
EXPECT_EQ(C(0, 0), 0);
EXPECT_FALSE(axom::numerics::matrix_add(B, C2, A));
EXPECT_EQ(A.getNumColumns(), 1);
EXPECT_EQ(A.getNumRows(), 1);
EXPECT_EQ(A(0, 0), 0);
}
//------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TEST(numerics_matvecops, matrix_add)
{
constexpr int N = 3;
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> I1 = axom::numerics::Matrix<int>::identity(N);
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> I2 = axom::numerics::Matrix<int>::identity(N);
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> A(N, N);
EXPECT_TRUE(axom::numerics::matrix_add(I1, I2, A));
for(int i = 0; i < N; ++i)
{
for(int j = 0; j < N; ++j)
{
int expected = (i == j) ? 2 : 0;
EXPECT_EQ(expected, A(i, j));
} // END for all columns
} // END for all rows
}
//------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TEST(numerics_matvecops, check_invalid_matrix_subtraction)
{
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> A(2, 2);
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> B(3, 3);
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> C(3, 3);
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> C2(3, 3);
EXPECT_FALSE(axom::numerics::matrix_subtract(A, B, C));
EXPECT_EQ(C.getNumColumns(), 1);
EXPECT_EQ(C.getNumRows(), 1);
EXPECT_EQ(C(0, 0), 0);
EXPECT_FALSE(axom::numerics::matrix_subtract(B, C2, A));
EXPECT_EQ(A.getNumColumns(), 1);
EXPECT_EQ(A.getNumRows(), 1);
EXPECT_EQ(A(0, 0), 0);
}
//------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TEST(numerics_matvecops, matrix_subtract)
{
constexpr int ZERO = 0;
constexpr int N = 3;
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> I1 = axom::numerics::Matrix<int>::identity(N);
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> I2 = axom::numerics::Matrix<int>::identity(N);
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> A(N, N);
EXPECT_TRUE(axom::numerics::matrix_subtract(I1, I2, A));
for(int i = 0; i < N; ++i)
{
for(int j = 0; j < N; ++j)
{
EXPECT_EQ(A(i, j), ZERO);
} // END for all columns
} // END for all rows
}
//------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TEST(numerics_matvecops, check_invalid_matrix_multiplication)
{
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> A(2, 3);
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> B(3, 2);
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> C(3, 3);
EXPECT_FALSE(axom::numerics::matrix_multiply(A, B, C));
EXPECT_EQ(C.getNumColumns(), 1);
EXPECT_EQ(C.getNumRows(), 1);
EXPECT_EQ(C(0, 0), 0);
EXPECT_FALSE(axom::numerics::matrix_multiply(A, C, B));
EXPECT_EQ(B.getNumColumns(), 1);
EXPECT_EQ(B.getNumRows(), 1);
EXPECT_EQ(B(0, 0), 0);
}
//------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TEST(numerics_matvecops, matrix_matrix_multiply)
{
// Setup test matrix A
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> A(2, 3);
A(0, 0) = 1;
A(0, 1) = 2;
A(0, 2) = 3;
A(1, 0) = 4;
A(1, 1) = 5;
A(1, 2) = 6;
// Setup test matrix B
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> B(3, 2);
B(0, 0) = 1;
B(0, 1) = 2;
B(1, 0) = 3;
B(1, 1) = 4;
B(2, 0) = 5;
B(2, 1) = 6;
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> C(2, 2);
EXPECT_TRUE(axom::numerics::matrix_multiply(A, B, C));
EXPECT_EQ(22, C(0, 0));
EXPECT_EQ(28, C(0, 1));
EXPECT_EQ(49, C(1, 0));
EXPECT_EQ(64, C(1, 1));
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> I2 = axom::numerics::Matrix<int>::identity(2);
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> C2(2, 2);
EXPECT_TRUE(axom::numerics::matrix_multiply(C, I2, C2));
EXPECT_EQ(22, C2(0, 0));
EXPECT_EQ(28, C2(0, 1));
EXPECT_EQ(49, C2(1, 0));
EXPECT_EQ(64, C2(1, 1));
}
//------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TEST(numerics_matvecops, matrix_scalar_multiply)
{
constexpr int N = 3;
constexpr int SCALAR = 2;
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> A = axom::numerics::Matrix<int>::identity(N);
axom::numerics::matrix_scalar_multiply(A, SCALAR);
for(int i = 0; i < N; ++i)
{
for(int j = 0; j < N; ++j)
{
int expected = (i == j) ? SCALAR : 0;
EXPECT_EQ(expected, A(i, j));
}
}
}
//------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TEST(numerics_matvecops, matrix_vector_multiply)
{
constexpr int N = 2;
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> A(N, N);
A(0, 0) = 1;
A(0, 1) = 2;
A(1, 0) = 3;
A(1, 1) = 4;
int res[2];
int v[2] = {1, 2};
int expected[2] = {5, 11};
axom::numerics::matrix_vector_multiply(A, v, res);
for(int i = 0; i < N; ++i)
{
EXPECT_EQ(expected[i], res[i]);
}
}
//------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TEST(numerics_matvecops, check_invalid_matrix_transpose)
{
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> A(2, 3);
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> M(10, 10);
EXPECT_FALSE(axom::numerics::matrix_transpose(A, M));
EXPECT_EQ(M.getNumRows(), 1);
EXPECT_EQ(M.getNumColumns(), 1);
EXPECT_EQ(M(0, 0), 0);
}
//------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TEST(numerics_matvecops, matrix_transpose)
{
// Setup matrix: (1 2 3)
// (4 5 6)
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> A(2, 3);
A(0, 0) = 1;
A(0, 1) = 2;
A(0, 2) = 3;
A(1, 0) = 4;
A(1, 1) = 5;
A(1, 2) = 6;
// Matrix transpose
axom::numerics::Matrix<int> M(A.getNumColumns(), A.getNumRows());
EXPECT_TRUE(axom::numerics::matrix_transpose(A, M));
EXPECT_EQ(1, M(0, 0));
EXPECT_EQ(2, M(1, 0));
EXPECT_EQ(3, M(2, 0));
EXPECT_EQ(4, M(0, 1));
EXPECT_EQ(5, M(1, 1));
EXPECT_EQ(6, M(2, 1));
}
//------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TEST(numerics_matvecops, matrix_norm)
{
constexpr int N = 3;
constexpr bool ZERO_COPY = true;
constexpr double EXPECTED_P1_NORM = 19;
constexpr double EXPECTED_INFTY_NORM = 15;
constexpr double EXPECTED_FROBENIOUS_NORM = 14.387494569938159;
// STEP 0: construct test matrix
// clang-format off
double data[9 /* 3 x 3 */] = {
-3, 2, 0, // column 1
5, 6, 2, // column 2
7, 4, 8 // column 3
};
// clang-format on
axom::numerics::Matrix<double> A(N, N, data, ZERO_COPY);
// STEP 1: test p1-norm
double p1norm = axom::numerics::matrix_norm(A, axom::numerics::P1_NORM);
EXPECT_DOUBLE_EQ(p1norm, EXPECTED_P1_NORM);
// STEP 2: test infinity-norm
double inftynorm = axom::numerics::matrix_norm(A, axom::numerics::INF_NORM);
EXPECT_DOUBLE_EQ(inftynorm, EXPECTED_INFTY_NORM);
// STEP 3: test frobenius norm
double frobnorm =
axom::numerics::matrix_norm(A, axom::numerics::FROBENIUS_NORM);
EXPECT_DOUBLE_EQ(frobnorm, EXPECTED_FROBENIOUS_NORM);
}
//------------------------------------------------------------------------------
// UNIT TESTS FOR VECTOR OPS
//------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TEST(numerics_matvecops, linspace)
{
double vc[6]; // storage for the computed vector
const double v1[6] = {-2, -1, 0, 1, 2, 3};
const double v2[6] = {3, 2, 1, 0, -1, -2};
const double v3[3] = {0.0, 0.5, 1.0};
const double x0 = -2.0;
const double x1 = 3.0;
EXPECT_FALSE(axom::numerics::linspace(x0, x1, vc, 0));
EXPECT_FALSE(axom::numerics::linspace(x0, x1, vc, 1));
EXPECT_TRUE(axom::numerics::linspace(x0, x1, vc, 6));
expect_vector_eq(vc, v1, 6);
EXPECT_TRUE(axom::numerics::linspace(x1, x0, vc, 6));
expect_vector_eq(vc, v2, 6);
EXPECT_TRUE(axom::numerics::linspace(0.0, 1.0, vc, 3));
expect_vector_eq(vc, v3, 3);
}
//------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TEST(numerics_matvecops, vector_cross_product)
{
const int NDIMS = 3;
const double e1[3] = {1.0, 0.0, 0.0};
const double e2[3] = {0.0, 1.0, 0.0};
const double e3[3] = {0.0, 0.0, 1.0};
const double me3[3] = {0.0, 0.0, -1.0};
const double u[3] = {2.0, 1.0, -1.0};
const double v[3] = {-3.0, 4.0, 1.0};
const double u_x_v[3] = {5.0, 1.0, 11.0};
double w[3];
axom::numerics::cross_product(e1, e2, w);
expect_vector_eq(w, e3, NDIMS);
axom::numerics::cross_product(e2, e1, w);
expect_vector_eq(w, me3, NDIMS);
axom::numerics::cross_product(e3, e1, w);
expect_vector_eq(w, e2, NDIMS);
axom::numerics::cross_product(e2, e3, w);
expect_vector_eq(w, e1, NDIMS);
axom::numerics::cross_product(u, v, w);
expect_vector_eq(w, u_x_v, NDIMS);
}
//------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TEST(numerics_matvecops, vector_dot_product)
{
const int dim = 10;
const double EPS = 1E-4;
double* u = new double[dim](); // 0 initialization
double* v = new double[dim](); // 0 initialization
u[0] = 1.;
v[1] = 1.;
EXPECT_NEAR(axom::numerics::dot_product<double>(u, v, dim), 0., EPS);
u[1] = 1.;
v[0] = 1.;
EXPECT_NEAR(axom::numerics::dot_product<double>(u, v, dim), 2., EPS);
u[5] = 10.;
v[5] = -10.;
EXPECT_NEAR(axom::numerics::dot_product<double>(u, v, dim), -98., EPS);
// free up allocated memory
delete[] u;
delete[] v;
}
//------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TEST(numerics_matvecops, vector_make_orthogonal)
{
const int dim = 3;
const double ONE_THIRD = 0.3333333333;
const double EPS = 1E-4;
double* u = new double[dim](); // 0 initialization
double* v = new double[dim](); // 0 initialization
u[0] = 1.;
u[1] = 1.;
u[2] = -1.;
v[0] = 1.;
v[1] = 1.;
v[2] = 1.;
axom::numerics::make_orthogonal<double>(u, v, dim);
EXPECT_NEAR(u[0], 1. - ONE_THIRD, EPS);
EXPECT_NEAR(u[1], 1. - ONE_THIRD, EPS);
EXPECT_NEAR(u[2], -1. - ONE_THIRD, EPS);
axom::numerics::make_orthogonal(u, u, dim);
EXPECT_NEAR(u[0], 0., EPS);
EXPECT_NEAR(u[1], 0., EPS);
EXPECT_NEAR(u[2], 0., EPS);
// free up allocated memory
delete[] u;
delete[] v;
}
//------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TEST(numerics_matvecops, vector_orthonormalize)
{
const int dim = 3;
const int size = 2;
const double EPS = 1E-4;
const double ONE_OVER_SQRT_TWO = 0.70710678;
double* basis = new double[dim * dim](); // 0 initialization
double* u = basis;
double* v = basis + dim;
u[0] = 1.;
u[1] = 1.;
v[0] = 2.;
EXPECT_TRUE(axom::numerics::orthonormalize<double>(basis, size, dim));
EXPECT_NEAR(u[0], ONE_OVER_SQRT_TWO, EPS);
EXPECT_NEAR(u[1], ONE_OVER_SQRT_TWO, EPS);
EXPECT_NEAR(u[2], 0., EPS);
EXPECT_NEAR(v[0], ONE_OVER_SQRT_TWO, EPS);
EXPECT_NEAR(v[1], -ONE_OVER_SQRT_TWO, EPS);
EXPECT_NEAR(v[2], 0., EPS);
// doesn't span
EXPECT_FALSE(axom::numerics::orthonormalize<double>(basis, dim, dim));
// free up allocated memory
delete[] basis;
}
//------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TEST(numerics_matvecops, vector_normalize)
{
const int dim = 3;
const double EPS = 1E-4;
const double ONE_OVER_SQRT_THREE = 0.57735026;
const double ONE_OVER_SQRT_TEN = 0.316227766;
double* u = new double[dim](); // 0 initialization
double* v = new double[dim](); // 0 initialization
u[0] = 1.;
u[1] = 1.;
u[2] = 1.;
v[0] = 0.;
v[1] = 3.;
v[2] = 1.;
EXPECT_TRUE(axom::numerics::normalize<double>(u, dim));
EXPECT_NEAR(u[0], ONE_OVER_SQRT_THREE, EPS);
EXPECT_NEAR(u[1], ONE_OVER_SQRT_THREE, EPS);
EXPECT_NEAR(u[2], ONE_OVER_SQRT_THREE, EPS);
EXPECT_TRUE(axom::numerics::normalize<double>(v, dim));
EXPECT_NEAR(v[0], 0., EPS);
EXPECT_NEAR(v[1], 3. * ONE_OVER_SQRT_TEN, EPS);
EXPECT_NEAR(v[2], ONE_OVER_SQRT_TEN, EPS);
// now make u = (0, 0, 0)
axom::numerics::make_orthogonal(u, u, dim);
// normalize should fail
EXPECT_FALSE(axom::numerics::normalize<double>(u, dim));
delete[] u;
delete[] v;
}
| stack_edu |
Posts Tagged ‘Christmas’
Christmas Full Moon 2015
December 14, 2015 Leave a comment
Observing the Moon
New Telescope for Christmas?
December 25, 2012 Leave a comment
Are you lucky enough to have been given a shiny new telescope for Christmas? If so you have joined the ranks of thousands of other stargazers around the world, and you’re no doubt eager to get outside and use your new toy.
But a new telescope can be quite a complicated and daunting piece of hardware, so let’s go through the basics, to help you on your way.
1. Read the instructions!
Like most complicated pieces of equipment your telescope should have a user manual or a set of instructions. If not, try looking online. These instructions will help you assemble your telescope, and become familiar with all of the various parts, including the finder scope, eyepieces, focus mechanism, and motion controls.
2. Align the finder scope in the daytime.
The small telescope that sits on the main tube of your telescope is called the finder scope. You can use this to locate an object in the sky, and if the finder- and main telescopes are aligned (facing in exactly the same direction) then that object will be in the centre of the field of view of your main scope too. Aligning the finder scope is a bit fiddly though, so do it in the daytime before you observe. Point your main telescope at a specific distant object, like a far away tree, or chimney pot, or transmitter mast. (WARNING: don’t point it anywhere near the Sun). Once that object’s in the very centre of your main scope field of view, look through your finder scope. The chances are it’s not in the crosshairs here, so adjust the position of your finder scope until it is. This is usually done using small screws that physically move the finder scope around till it’s aligned with the main scope. Now it’s ready to use tonight.
3. Pick the correct eyepieces.
Your scope probably came with a couple of eyepieces. These should be marked with their focal length, in mm. The higher this number the lower the magnification. So a 25mm eyepiece will provide smaller images than a 10mm eyepiece. But magnification isn’t everything. In most cases you should start with your least powerful eyepiece, which gives you the largest field of view. Once you’ve found your target you can substitute a more powerful eyepiece in, to get a larger image. It’ll be larger, but dimmer. After all you’re spreading the same amount of light over a larger image. You’ll also notice any wobbles in the telescope much more when you’re using a higher power eyepiece. So your low-power eyepiece will give you brighter, clearer images, even if they’re much smaller.
4. Learn how to move around the sky.
All telescopes are different, and the way that you move them from one object to the other varies. In general though they will all have hand-screws that you can tighten and loosen to lock the telescope in position, or to move it. There may also be dials or screws to give fine adjustments to a telescope’s positioning. On the other hand, some telescopes – called dobsonians – are just moved by physically nudging the telescope tube. However yours moves, you’ll be doing this in the dark, so practice, practice, practice until it’s second nature to you. Some motorised telescopes find and track the stars and planets for you, but these are a bit trickier to set up properly, so read the instructions.
5. Choose the right targets.
Don’t go hunting down very faint elusive objects on your first night out; stick to the brighter ones that are easier to find. On Christmas night and for a couple of days after, the Moon and Jupiter are up in the evening. Even a small telescope will give great views of the Moon (although you’ll get a better view when it’s not quite so full, and you can observe the line between light and dark, called the terminator line) and will let you see Jupiter’s moons, looking like four tiny specks next to the bright planet Jupiter.
Whatever you look at with your new telescope, enjoy it, and remember that patience is a virtue. You’re the proud owner of a great stargazing tool, but you need to practice to get the hang of using it properly.
Let everyone know what you’ve been observing, and how you’ve found your new telescope, in the comments below.
%d bloggers like this: | dclm_edu |
Last Minute Father's Day Gifts
21 Last-Minute Father's Day Gifts That Will Blow Him Away
The AskMen Acquire team thoroughly researches & reviews the best gear, services and staples for life.
Dad might not be the type to keep track of special occasions, like his birthday, but treating him to something special every now and then shouldn’t require an occasion. Dads are part of the backbone that make up our lives, and celebrating the important role they’ve played in making us who we are should be a mindset for everyday. But if you do need an excuse to spoil his socks off, here’s your cue: Father’s Day.
Father’s Day, which falls on June 17th this year, is your opportunity to give back to the guy who guided you through some of the biggest obstacles in your life: how to tie your shoelaces, keep score of the game and match your dress shoes with your belt, for example. It’s a chance to thank him for being there and sharing some of your best moments with you — whatever those may be. Think about your unique relationship and the things that really bring you together — it can be as simple as an appreciation for craft beer or novelty socks.
Even if you blanked on the special day, there are a lot of options for the last-minute shopper. From the best new tech gadget to the coolest lifestyle subscription service, we’ve got you covered with the help of these top Father’s Day gifts — many of which are available with next-day shipping — so even if you've waited until the last minute, you can still come out with a banger gift.
Note: If you want to be sure that you get your gifts in time for Father's Day, check out the shipping guides for the following retailers for two-day (and in some cases, free one-day) shipping.
As the days get hotter, we get thirstier. And there’s nothing more satisfying on a hot summer’s day than sipping on an icy coffee ..or cocktail. Enter the HyperChiller: the fastest way to chill a beverage in under a minute, without diluting it. All dad needs to do is store it in the freezer, so that it’s ready at all times.
$30.00 at HyperChiller.com
If dad is all about gadgets, the Amazon Echo is sure to put a twinkle in his eye. A 24-hour butler — without the silly suit — it’s voice-controlled to recite the news, look up the weather forecast, read and keep track of his audiobook progress and even order lunch. And that’s just the beginning. If dad needs a hand looking after the house, the Echo has the capacity to manage thermostats, outdoor sprinklers and security systems. Take that, Siri.
$99.99 at Amazon.com
Harry’s Father’s Day Shave Set
Read our Harry's Review
Dad’s need to shave too and this Father’s Day, Harry’s is commemorating father-son relationships with a limited edition shave set. The set comes with their Truman razor in storm gray, an engravable razor stand, three German-engineered steel blades and your choice of shaving cream or foaming gel. And if you want to extend the gift, you can sign dad up for the Harry’s subscription service, which will hook him up with two dollar blade refills.
$30.00 at Harrys.com
Read our Bespoke Post Review
The beauty of subscription services is that they’re low maintenance and high reward. Especially when you’re talking Bespoke Post. Based in New York, this lifestyle service for guys sources high quality goods — from leather gloves to leather-bound notebooks — from wherever a good story takes them. Every month they assemble and release a theme-based box, which members get delivered in the mail (at a steep discount). You can choose a specific, one-off box for dad or treat him to repeat deliveries.
$45.00 at BespokePost.com
There are few things better than an ice cold beer on a hot summer day and few things worse than a warm or diluted brew. Enter the Chillsner. This small icicle-shaped device can be inserted into any bottle and keep drinks icy cool from the first sip to the last. Simply pop it in the freezer for 45 minutes and insert it in the bottle. Thanks to the sip through feature, Dad can leave the Chilsner in the bottle while he enjoys his IPA or Stout.
$21.95 at Amazon.com
Style knows no age. For the dad who’s ready to waltz into his golden years looking like a stud, Trunk Club is a service that will find his perfect tune. They’ll set him up with a personal stylist and curate a box of goodies — from Nordstrom’s designer-packed inventory — for him to try on at home. He’ll get an advanced preview of what to expect, and will then have ten days to decide what he keeps. The rest he can send back, free of charge.
Find out more at TrunkClub.com
Bellroy Phone Wallet
A wallet for the modern guy, Bellroy’s all-in-one home for his essentials is slim enough to fit in his back pocket without adding bulk. The cover not only protects with an added microfiber lining but acts as a stand when folded back. Inside, dad can store up to five cards, or two and cash. Also comes with a three-year warranty.
$99.95 at Amazon.com
Huckberry Compact EDC Kit 2.0
Utility meets space efficiency with Huckberry’s Compact EDC Kit 2.0. Housed in a polished Aluminum Keysmart frame, they’ve added a slew of modular tools like a Griffin pocket tool, folding knife, bit driver and pry. A lifesaver anywhere from camp to his daily commute, it even comes with a length of signature orange paracord for fastening or fixing a custom lanyard.
$60.00 at Huckberry.com
A Higher Loyalty - James Comey
If he’s a fan of spy novels, look no further. In his gripping memoir, James Comey, who served as the director of the FBI during President Obama’s reign, pulls the curtain on some of the most high-stakes FBI operations of the past twenty years. It’s a detailed look into some of the most newsworthy stories of our lifetime, dabbled with a little bit of leadership advice and a little bit of James Bond-esque spy moments for good measure.
$16.92 at Amazon.com
Gone are the days of being overwhelmed by the wine aisle. Winc, a California-based wine subscription service, aims to take the stress out of finding the perfect bottle, by sending users a variety of top-of-the-line wines catered to their individual tastes. Simply take Winc's quiz to give them a sense of dad's likes and dislikes. Winc will then deliver a selection of wines right to his door. While the $13+ price tag isn’t exactly bank breaking, if he isn't keen on any bottles he receives, he can leave his feedback and the Winc team will ensure he doesn't receive a similar bottle again.
Find out more at Winc.com
Kindle Paperwhite E-Reader
Despite the overwhelming variety of entertainment options out there, reading remains the best pastime for unwinding yet stimulating the imagination and other mental faculties. And for serious readers, using a Kindle is just logical. Available in black or white, the Paperwhite uses a high resolution, no-glare display to mimic the surface appearance of a page. It can also access over a million titles (free for Prime members), so dad can leave his book strap at home.
$119.99 at Amazon.com
Buttermilk Graffiti - Edward Lee
With so many different cultures and regional cuisine from sea to shining sea, there’s no way you can define American cuisine under one dish. In this book, Edward Lee, of the binge-worthy show The Mind of a Chef and the Chef/Owner of MilkWood in Louisville, dives into American dishes across the country, from matcha beignets (inspired by Café du Monde) to a noodle soup inspired by a Uyghur café in New York. With Lee acting as an anthropologist for much of the book, it is just as interesting a read as it is a culinary guide.
$15.02 at Amazon.com
MVMT Watch Chrono Silver Brown
While dad definitely deserves a Rolex or a Patek Philippe with a ball out price tag, you may not have a ball-out budget to play with. Luckily, MVMT’s watches have the appearance and appeal of a higher-budget watch, but with the easy wearability of a watch he's going to want to wear every day. Smooth brown leather straps and silver hardware will match well with whatever his daily wardrobe calls for, but a sleek, minimalistic face adds a touch of edge.
$135.00 at MVMT.com
For puttering around the garden, going running and leading a generally mobile lifestyle, earphones that stay put, no matter the conditions, are essential for comfort and high-quality sound. Here, Bose’s Isolating StayHear Ultra Tips block out background noise, while the inline buttons work to control the play settings of dad’s chosen device. Now he can get a head-full of his favorite jams, without jamming up everyone else’s airwaves.
$69.99 at Amazon.com
Hydro Flask Steel Water Bottle
Meet dad’s new best friend for imbibing of any sort. Whether it’s a morning coffee, water on the trail or beer at the campsite with his buddies, the HydroFlask is vacuum-insulated to keep drinks hot for up to six hours or cold for up to 24. The thoughtful design was crafted to leave no flavor residue, so no matter what beverage is in his bottle, he won’t be tasting what he was sipping yesterday.
$21.95 at Amazon.com
Drinking Distilled: A User's Manual
No matter if Dad is a martini snob (stirred, never shaken) or if he prefers to kick back with a scotch neat, imbibing expert Jeffrey Morgenthaler has laid out some of the best cocktail recipes for the home bartender. Not just a recipe book, Drinking Distilled also lays out bar etiquette, basic bartending skills, liquors and liqueurs 101, and other quippy tips and thoughts on the art of modern drinking. We’ll cheers to that.
$14.48 at Amazon.com
Yes, socks are a practical gift. Happy Socks adds a little bit of dad humor into a good pair of socks with their cheeky patterned socks. Choose from pineapples, spots, stripes, or even an eye-catching argyle (or you know, just get them all). A serious attention to detail (80% cotton and completely machine washable) means dad can rock these for ages to come.
$32.48 at Amazon.com
Stanley Lunch Box
Granted, there’s a certain charm to packing a lunch into a paper bag but for the adventurous dad, something a bit more durable is in order. This classic lunchbox from tool giant Stanley is made from SPCD steel with a domed lid and latches to keep things secure. Fits a thermos, (many) sandwiches and whatever else tickles his fancy from the heart of the woods. And like all Stanley products, it’s protected by a lifetime warranty.
$67.00 at Amazon.com
Workwear for everyday. This Carhartt zip-up is made from a thick cotton blend, with a drawstring hood and banded trims. Great for slipping on on his way out the door, dad’s wardrobe will welcome the new addition. Also available in charcoal, canopy green or royal blue.
$40.00 at Amazon.com
Polo Ralph Lauren Lounge Pants
As much as those old sweatpants your dad cherishes have seen him through many a good memory, eventually the time comes to retire those old comfort clothes. Parting won’t be so difficult thanks to uber-comfy pants, like Polo Ralph Lauren’s 100% cotton lounge pants. The slimmer fit and front pockets allow for all-day comfort, while the tapered leg allows for a comfy fit without the hem dragging on the floor and ripping.
$42.00 at Nordstrom.com
Blue Bottle Coffee Subscription
No matter if dad is happily still at work or living up his best retired life, a morning, no matter how early, is not complete without a good cup of Joe. Blue Bottle delivers just that — whether he prefers blends, single origin or a wake-you-up espresso, Blue Bottle will send along a bag of freshly roasted beans curated to his flavor profile. No matter if his coffee nerd level is pourover or if he’s just graduated past instant coffee, Blue Bottle will match the delivery to what dad really needs.
Find out more at Bluebottlecoffee.com | fineweb_edu |
© Amelia January 29, 2009
I get asked fairly often, "Where can I find a used wheel?"
First things first ... I am not endorsing any particular seller or venue by listing these, just providing the information. Buyer beware, that is the best policy. Also, buying solely based on a photograph is taking a risk. Get out there and see it yourself, or if it's not by you, find a relative, friend, or associate who can see it in person before it's shipped to you.
If you don't spin yet, take an experienced spinner with you to try out the wheel, too. Even if the seller can spin, this gives you a less biased opinion.
I know second-hand can be quite a bit less expensive than new, but consider also any manufacturer's or store's warranties evaporate that way too. Just sayin'. Especially for power equipment (there are electric wheels, after all). If you're handy with tools and glue, though, your standard spinning wheel may be quite fixable or maintainable.
I have not used all of these placed myself to sell or buy used equipment; I've visited them all, sold on some, bought on some. Most of my used sales have actually been in person, at shows, in my vendor booth. So that's another place to check for used equipment -- wool show vendors often have an item on the edge of a table that is second hand equipment for sale; and some conferences, like NwRSA's, have used equipment tables. Check with your local guild, someone may be considering selling a wheel; and perhaps your local yarn shop has a bulletin board for used equipment sales.
Here is a list of handy links for used spinning & carding equipment:
FiberArts.org's Classified ad page
Fiber Equipment and Barter's Spinning Wheels & Accessories for sale/wanted
Association of Northwest Weaver's Guilds Classified Ads
Vermont Weaver's Guild Looms and Equipment For Sale
Homestead Weaving Studio's For Sale/Wanted lists
Spinner's & Weaver's Housecleaning Pages - Spinning Wheels
Apple Hollow Farm's Used Equipment Page
The Online Spinning & Weaving Guild Discussion pages
Ravelry's Spinner's Marketplace
Ravelry's Used Tools & Equipment Marketplace
Woodland Woolwork's Used Equipment Page
Check out your local Craig's List or use http://www.craigshelper.com/ to search all of the ones within 250 miles of you (handy, that!)
There's ebay too, though then you have bidding to deal with and commercial suppliers selling new equipment as well. Occasionally spinners will sell an older wheel on etsy. Though there are new ones listed there by commercial suppliers as well, so not all prices are second-hand prices.
And, drum roll please, my big tip ... some of these pages have RSS feeds, but not all of them. Set yourself up with an account on ChangeDetection.com so you can monitor the non-RSS pages for updates.
Of course, this works the other way around too -- are you selling a used wheel? these are options for listing it. Pick one local to you, or with the kind of exposure you want.
These websites can also be handy for researching the value of a wheel, for buyers and sellers alike. Consider age, condition, and accessories. I've been told that when selling, offering a price point 30% less than new for a like-new-condition wheel will usually be successful. If your wheel is old, consider discounting from the price you paid for it or its price when it was new. Some wheels gain in value due to their no longer being made, having a high-quality well-respected maker, and availability; others maintain value, and others, well, you know.
I was working on this blog post when the request came for this info on Spindlers today ... Nannette (list mom) added that a number of wheel vendors also accept trade-ins, so will have used wheels. So be sure to check with your favorite local or mail-order vendors too!
Anyone have a Reeves Production Wheel? Treasure it. Not a Schacht-Reeves, those are still being made. I'm talking about an original Reeves. I've spun on one. I'd almost be willing to add an addition to the house to have one ... but they're pricey, so I'm not sure what would cost more, the addition or the wheel. Besides, right now I am suffering from loom lust. (Update 2/25/2010: got the loom 9/9009! working on getting my head wrapped around it still, wow what an amazing piece of equipment!)
It's darned hard to find a good "starter wheel" second hand for under $200 any more, though the occasional $20-$50 garage sale find does still pop up. So we're lucky to have low-priced-new options like the Babe Fiber Starter.
Did you guess it? Yep, I'll be following up in time to come with, Where can I find a used loom? and Where can I find a used sock machine? Stay tuned.
Oh, and the wheels in the photos? past wheels of mine, all now enjoying new homes.
Looking for knitting needles and gizmos? Besides garage sales and thrift/second-hand/Salvation Army/Goodwill shops, Ravelry's Used Tools & Equipment Marketplace often has knitting needle listings.
Do you have a site you recommend for used spinning items? Let us know in the comments ~ thanks.
posted 29 January 2009 at http://askthebellwether.blogspot.com/ | fineweb_edu |
With the initiation of a program sponsored by the World Bank, international investors can be able to buy offshore rupee-dominated bonds. By this program, World Bank aimed to further strengthen the financial market in the country by attracting overseas investment.
The Big Mac Index is published by the Economist to compare the currencies of different countries and to evaluate whether a particular currency is overvaluated or undervaluated.
The Reserve Bank will shortly issue Rs 500 notes which will have the rupee symbol. The Rs 500 notes will be of the Mahatma Gandhi-2005 Series bearing the signature of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor D Subbarao.
USDINR – 4 hourly chart is shown with 13-13 period Wilders Moving average channel offset trading system. Ruppee Continues with the buy signal since 8th Nov 2011 on the chart with the 4 hourly support coming around Rs. 51.7.
In an early trade on Thursday, the Indian rupee fell by 46 paise to a record low of Rs 54.17 per US dollar, breaching the Rs 54 per dollar-mark for the first time in history on sustained foreign capital outflows and dollar gains against the euro and other rivals overseas.
Rupee touched the 52.6 per dollar mark for the first time in thirty two and a half months on tuesday as domestic equities weakened and oil importers bought dollars.The rupee slid past 52.6 against the dollar in opening trades on Tuesday, dropping to its lowest level in history since march 2009.
In 1935, under the Paper Currency Act of 1861, the Raj was granted the monopoly of issuing notes, ending the practice of private and presidency banks. But these currencies continued to be in use till the RBI issued its own coins and notes. Interestingly, till about 50 years ago, other currencies besides the RBI’s existed in, for instance, Portuguese Goa and Hyderabad.
USDINR 4 hourly chart is shown with 13-13 period Wilders Moving average. There is buy signal on the chart since 9th November as the candle closes above the upper channel Rs49.33 of the 13-13 Wilders moving average channel since then there is a strong uptrend(Weaker Currency). Now the current supports are near Rs49.0. Closing below Rs.49 could offer shorting opportunity in USDINR.
Download the font Rupee.ttf or the new version Rupee_Foradian.ttf. Foridan Technologies had made the first font with support for Indian currency symbol.
For those of us still fumbling to find the € symbol on our keyboards, today was a bad news day. Computer and mobile keyboards in India (and possibly around the globe) will soon be adding another new button – the rupee key.
This is my first simple review with USDINR using simple trendlines Daily Charts of USDINR charts shwos the recent supports near 45.82 got broken and USDINR is trading below the support zone along with sell signal from the basic MACD. Iam Expecting rupee strengthening against dollar in coming sessions with resistance zone […] | fineweb_edu |
Have you ever asked yourself what a trans fat is and why it’s bad for you? Well, it is a type of specific fat that is created when fats that are initially in liquid form are made solid by adding hydrogen atoms. Some of these fats are found in nature in foods that are animal based. Originally, trans fats were used to increase the shelf life of some foods.
The Institute of Medicine suggests that people consume as little trans fat as possible in their diets. Instead, we should be consuming more raw, natural foods. Trans fat both decreases the good cholesterol and increases the bad cholesterol. It gives quite the double whammy. The ratio of good cholesterol (HDL) to bad cholesterol (LDL) determines how likely you are to get heart disease. With that said, it is in everyone’s interest to reduce their intake of trans fat and have a healthy diet.
There are some steps you can take to decrease the trans fat that you consume:
- Compare Foods – Read all of the labels and pick the one that is the most healthy. This isn’t always an easy task. There are cases where the rules for labeling allow a manufacturer to falsely label their food with no trans fat when there is as much as 0.49 grams per serving in it.
- Switch your consumption to polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. These are the kinds of oils that are found in nuts and oils, such as canola, olive, and more. In moderation, these oils can benefit your health and do not raise your levels of LDL. A lot of the vegetable oils work as well, such as sunflower or corn oil.
- A lot of the ready to prepare and processed foods we eat contain trans fat. One example is microwave popcorn. Instead of using popcorn you microwave, try using a large pan with corn oil on the stove to pop it. Not only is it better for you, but it tastes better. | fineweb_edu |
Mercedes-Benz Prepaid Maintenance
Why prepaid maintenance?
It’s the smart, convenient way to prepay for all your vehicle’s forthcoming scheduled maintenance services. Mercedes-Benz Prepaid Maintenance allows you to “lock in” the costs for “required” services before your first service visit or 10,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Benefits of prepaid maintenance
With prepaid maintenance, all your vehicle’s needs are already paid for thousands of miles ahead, and for months in advance.* Prepaid maintenance benefits include:
- Potential increase in residual value if purchased with lease
- Potential increase in resale value (since you’re able to prove you’re properly maintaining your vehicle according to manufacturer’s recommendations)
- The peace of mind of having paid for maintenance in advance
- Mercedes-Benz trained technicians using Genuine Mercedes-Benz Parts
Furthermore, prepaid maintenance follows wherever you travel. So if you require service while you’re on the road — or should you ever choose to relocate — your plan gets honored in full at any authorized, participating Mercedes-Benz Dealer.
Choose the right payment option for you
By opting for a prepaid maintenance plan when you purchase your Mercedes-Benz, you can build its cost into your monthly vehicle payment, or you can opt to pay the full cost upfront. You can purchase your plan any time before your first service visit or before 10,000 miles – whichever comes first.
There are three different prepaid maintenance plans you can select from, each customized to your preference. You can choose a prepaid maintenance plan that covers your service needs for 2, 3, or 4 years, and up to 40,000 total vehicle miles.
Mercedes-Benz Premier Prepaid Maintenance Coverage
Effective September 3, 2014 on MY15 and newer.
If your vehicle is not eligible for the Mercedes-Benz Premier Prepaid Maintenance, ask for Mercedes-Benz Star Prepaid Maintenance and receive similar benefits. Your vehicle must be a model year 2007 or newer and have less than 80,000 miles.
Mercedes-Benz Star Prepaid Maintenance
The benefits of Star Prepaid Maintenance
Mercedes-Benz Prepaid Maintenance is a smart, convenient way to ensure your vehicle’s maintenance needs are taken care of in a timely fashion. It covers required maintenance at your vehicle’s specified maintenance intervals. All maintenance services must be performed in consecutive order.
Star prepaid maintenance provides the following benefits:
- The peace of mind of having paid in advance
- Maintenance performed by Mercedes-Benz trained technicians using Genuine Mercedes-Benz Parts
- Potential increase in resale value
Contact Mercedes-Benz of Rochester for a plan that fits you
Our Star Prepaid Maintenance plan offers 2 or 3 different service packages to choose from. It can be purchased for model year 2007 or newer vehicles with a total vehicle mileage ceiling of 80,000 accumulated miles. As goes with prepaid maintenance purchased on new vehicles, Mercedes-Benz offers various, flexible payment options.
Contact Mercedes-Benz of Rochester about program details and eligibility.
For details, exclusions, and limitations on Mercedes-Benz Premier Prepaid Maintenance, contact your dealer, visit www.mbusa.com/maintenance or call 1-800-FOR-MERCEDES. | fineweb_edu |
What Facilities Management Metrics Should I Be Tracking?
How do you define facilities management metrics? They are data points, reflecting the performance of assets in your organization. Metrics can be created for virtually every process and event, but tracking the right metrics can mean the difference between knowing how to improve operations or becoming overwhelmed with data. To simplify the process, Facilities Managers should be tracking these top metrics.
Facilities Management Metrics Must Reflect Real Data
A frequent problem Facilities Managers encounter when developing key facilities management metrics is not tracking the right information. All facilities management metrics must reflect real, quantifiable data points. For instance, cost, size, quantity, temperature, status, yes/no response, and time/ date information are quantifiable data points, reports Robert Lambe via SlideShare. Now, let us take a closer look at the top metrics Facilities Managers must be tracking.
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Track Work Order Response Times
Work order response times provide insight into the average amount of time it takes to find, report, and resolve a problem in a facility. Facilities manager should track average work order response times regarding vendor, facility, day, and severity.
Track the Backlog of Deferred Maintenance
The deferred maintenance backlog is yet another metric facilities manager should be tracking. Deferred maintenance eats away at the facilities budget, and depending on how long it stays unresolved, it can exponentially increase overall facilities spend and lead to higher total cost of ownership. Facilities managers should track the backlog of deferred maintenance as a percentage of overall maintenance costs.
Ratio of Planned Versus Reactive Maintenance
Speaking of percentages, Facilities Managers must also track the percentage of planned versus reactive maintenance. In other words, this is a measure of scheduled maintenance compared to on-demand maintenance, like sudden HVAC system failure. This ratio is calculated by dividing the amount of scheduled maintenance cost by the amount of on-demand maintenance costs. As the metric increases from zero, it reflects the average amount of facilities spend being used for reactive maintenance. If the result reaches a value of one, it means the existing reactionary maintenance is equal to scheduled maintenance. As the amount surpasses one, it means more reactive maintenance is required than what is currently scheduled, so Facilities Managers may need to reevaluate maintenance schedules to help bring down the amount of reactive maintenance.
Average Time between Failures
Tracking the amount of time that passes between repairs for like or identical system, as well as the amount of time between repairs for a specific system, can help show the overall unit viability. As the time between repairs decreases, it alludes to a possible need to upgrade and or replace the entire asset.
Energy Use per Asset/Unit
Similar to tracking the amount of elapsed time between repairs, the energy use per asset or unit can help identify potential malfunctions within a given asset. In general, before an asset fails, it will begin to consume more energy than standard to compensate for minor malfunctions, which may not have become known yet. If an asset suddenly increases energy use, without a reasonable explanation, it may be on the verge of failure.
Average Cost per Repair
Tracking the average cost per repair, or per work order, can help Facilities Managers understand their overall facilities spend as it relates to the number of work orders in each period. Decreasing average cost per work order is great, but even decreasing cost per work order may be a major expense if many work orders are submitted. The same concept is true in reverse. The cost of one large work order can offset the tracking of all work order costs. As a result, it is best to track the cost per work order than to get lost in the details of identifying the exact number of work orders submitted.
Space Occupancy Versus Vacancy
As explained by James McDonald of iOfficeCorp, space occupancy versus vacancy is essential to identifying effective space utilization within a given facility, this is even more important for corporate real estate providers, whom have a predicated need to maintain a high occupancy rate. It is calculated by dividing occupied space by vacancy. An ideal result is zero, but the value greater than rose row, but less than one, alludes to increasing vacancy rates. As the value approach is one, it indicates a 50-50 ratio of occupied to vacant space.
What About Metrics Versus Key Performance Indicators?
Metrics usually define smaller aspects of facilities management, but when metrics are applied to a target level, they become key performance indicators.
Start Tracking the Right Metrics Today
From facilities management metrics to developing target KPIS, Facilities Managers face a growing pool of data to use in making decisions. Instead of getting lost in the chaos and data mountain, put the power of facilities management metrics to work. Start tracking these metrics now and give QSI Facilities a call at 1 (877) 281-8177 to find out what other metrics can help your unique enterprise succeed.
QSI Facilities
QSI Facilities | dclm_edu |
USDA study reveals what food stamps are really spent on
Michael Bloomberg and Michelle Obama have been lecturing us (or at least those among us who use food stamps, aka SNAP) to no avail when it comes to sugary soft drinks. Anahad O’Conner of the New York Times reports:
What do households on food stamps buy at the grocery store?
The answer was largely a mystery until now. The U.S. Department of Agriculture, which oversees the $74 billion food stamp program called SNAP, has published a detailed report that provides a glimpse into the shopping cart of the typical household that receives food stamps.
The food stamp crowd likes soft drinks a lot more than those who pay for their own food:
That amounts to 31% more soft drink consumption by those who don’t have to pay for it. Let me hazard a guess that people who qualify for food stamps also disproportionately do not pay fully for their medical care though either Medicaid or Obamacare subsidies.
This displeases the nanny staters:
"In this sense, SNAP is a multibillion-dollar taxpayer subsidy of the soda industry," said Marion Nestle, a professor of nutrition, food studies and public health at New York University. "It's pretty shocking."
The food stamp program has been a fraud magnet from the start. Consider the $16 million fraud ring just busted in Baltimore:
The indictments allege that the defendants illegally exchanged EBT benefits for cash, instead. To avoid detection, they debited the funds from the card in multiple transactions over a period of hours or days, or called a different store where the transaction was processed manually, the Department of Justice says.
There isn’t a lot of diversity among the people charged in this Baltimore ring.
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Years ago, casinos would exchange food stamps for chips. Cruise ships have taken food stamps. Are we surprised?
I haven't seen it on cruise ships, but I seen it going on in many stores in my area, stores owned by dark skin people from the Middle East if you know what I mean. They buy beer and cigs and other tobacco products with there EBT cards, Ive seen gas paid for with the same card. There is two stores with in 3 minutes from my home that does it and openly. Cheating the government is a joke to them there isn't any fear with this president in office.
More wasteful spending of taxpayer dollars....and they wonder why the obesity rate is through the roof...
yup it is a mess
It's the same group that wants free medical care. The working class has got to be more responsible for health Insurance and will take beetter care of themselfs in doing so. Free programs trial ly don't help some people it only makes them looking for other ways to get more without working. This is want socialist control does to people and gets them to ask for more. The goal to create a One World Government has got to put the people on government programs for there needs.
It's been going on sense the beginning of time only rather counting on God they started counting on man for there needs. Snap programs from food banks is also a joke wants handed out is food that causes more over weight children and sugar problems. Sugar colored Water Drinks and cookies, candy, and some can veggies that mostly come from China. And people wonder why there kids are sick? Mankind isn't designed to just live on sugar and refined foods. The smarter mankind gets the more foolish they become.
Fake foods don't work to give good health or heal sicknesses. It seem the more medical care people get free the more they go for it. And Big Pharmica will be happy to give them drugs that cause more problem then they started with. We as humans are easily fooled by government, education systems, and by the Medical Field. Just because they wear white coats don't make them gods, M.D.don't mean Morally Devine.
This is one big fraud program that needs the leadership of President Trump and one of his good business efficiency experts. As with most Gov hand out programs there is significant fraud and waste. I am not saying to end the program. If run efficiently and legitimately, it could provide food subsidies to people who are in real need, at a much lower cost. Currently $74 billion is too much to feed 40 million people.
we can not afford to buy grocery with money because it's getting too expensive, the food stamp is another form of communist because the government want to take control of our lives
SURPRIZE.....NO . JUST STAND IN LINE WAITING TO PAY FOR YOUR GRO. What food stamps is /does paying for a vote. As I stood in a line , to pay we had to wait for the person at the front of line who was calling her son to bring back her card. He was using it somewhere. He announced when he handed back the card .. when asked if he was able to get the stuff. No problem. Then they proceeded checking out bathing suits, plastic wading pool, pot chips soft drinks, sandwiches, candy. A picture needs to be on these Food Stamp cards. No cash allowed. And while we are at it... cut off all these FREE OBUMOPHONES. ---
I am a disabled Vet and I get $33 in food stamps. I use them wisely and try to make them work for me. I buy coffee every other month am I bad for this?. It's not a soft drink but it IS a drink none the less. I saw a young lady get cigarettes with her food stamp card and I told the clerk that was wrong and she told me to come back and talk to the owner. I didn't but I did report it to the DCF. A lot of good that does....
see you are disabled Vet for them to give you $33 is not enough because food prize is going up every day, led alone people are using food stamp for the wrong thing
Keith, If you are a disabled Vet, you should be getting a lot more than a mear $33.00 and should be able to spend it any damn way you want ! You can have my place in line any time Brother.
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BOOM! Jim Jordan just destroyed Schiff’s star witness Ambassador Taylor.
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Abandonware: Dead Games Live On
Brad King Email 01.19.02
Sarinee Achavanuntakul is a keeper of dead games.
She runs The Underdogs, a website with 2,600 computer games no longer commercially available. The site draws 30,000 people on peak days, but she pays hosting and bandwidth costs out of her own pocket. Traffic is so high she instituted a download limit to keep overhead low since the site isn't a money-making venture.
Achavanuntakul is part an informal group of game enthusiasts archiving and distributing out-of-print titles, called abandonware, through ftp download sites and chat rooms. Like others involved with this, she sees her role not as a pirate, but as an electronic media historian.
"We have Project Gutenberg for books, numerous archives for movies and even efforts to preserve the Web itself," she said. "Games, as electronic media, face a much greater threat of disappearing. Books can be reprinted infinitely and movies and music can be stored and transferred seamlessly as we move from LPs to cassettes to CDS and now MP3s. But old games and software in general don't have that advantage."
It's an admirable goal, but not all game developers see the abandonware sites as philanthropic endeavors. They view such sites as piracy.
The Interactive Digital Software Association estimated that worldwide piracy cost game companies $3 billion last year. Fortunately for Achavanuntakul and her cohorts, the trade organization focuses most of its energy on international trafficking of new games.
In the last two years, the IDSA has worked with U.S. Customs officials, the post office, the Federal Bureau of Investigations, along with a plethora of foreign governments to shut down the physical sale of pirated games.
New games have a three-year retail shelf life starting at $50 and slowly declining to $10, says David Cole, president of the entertainment research firm DFC Intelligence. After that window, most games become commercially useless as innovations in processing speed, graphics and sound make the titles outdated.
"Game companies are concerned about any type of piracy, but the reality is that if it's an older game, they have more important things to concern themselves with," said Cole.
The game industry looks down on the abandonware community, but Michelle McClellan wasn't out to rip off developers when she started out. She was searching for a copy of Slicks and Slides, a racing game she used to play with her cousins. She posted a note on a message board and found somebody with the out-of-print game.
Two years later, she's running Bunny Abandonware and a Web chat room devoted to older video games. McClellan is adamant about keeping current titles off her site, still she has trouble grasping the concept of companies getting upset about a product they don't sell anymore.
"We take the games down if the IDSA asks, but it's pretty silly because abandonware means games that are no longer sold and supported by their makers," said McClellan. "There is no alternative to downloading them. You can't buy them anywhere."
Some older games still command an audience though, and gaming companies have plans to sell those titles. Infogrames acquired the rights to the Atari catalogue and released a compilation of popular games last year, said Nancy Bushkin, the company's vice president of corporate communications. The Atari audience is always looking for new releases, so to build a business on older titles it's important for Infogrames to protect its out-of-print games.
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A pea patch is twice as big as a radish patch. If one fourth of the pea patch is 7 square feet and there are 2 more radishes than peas in the patches, how many square feet is the whole radish patch?
If one fourth of the pea patch is 7 square feet, then the whole pea patch is $7 \times 4 = 28$ square feet.
Since the pea patch is twice as big as the radish patch, the radish patch is $28/2 = 14$ square feet.
If there are 2 more radishes than peas in the patches, and we know there are 28 peas, then the number of radishes is $28 + 2 = 30$.
Therefore, the whole radish patch is 30 square feet. The answer is: $30$ | aug_gsm8k |
Tonight's meeting at Margate Park Field House was bittersweet. On the one hand, we are looking good for our upcoming costume party scheduled for October 25th on Saturday (Sunday as the back up day). On the other hand, our current volunteer president, Colleen Opal, just announced she will be moving to Iowa at the end of the month. Colleen has volunteered a tremendous amount of time to Puptown and definitely held the park together in a rather desperate time (loss of support in recent years). Everyone make sure to thank her at the park for all she has done in these past few months and wish her well on her future endeavors. Thanks once again Colleen and please don't ever forget Puptown! | fineweb_edu |
The Boston Marathon was held last weekend. It’s an event where otherwise normal people travel great distances, at great expense, to punish themselves physically, mentally, and emotionally for 26.2 uninterrupted miles, this time in the rain. The very nature of a marathon race really does beg the question, “Why?” In fact, I asked a marathon runner this question years ago, before I discovered the joy of running for myself. I asked him, “Why would you choose to run a marathon?” “Because it’s there.”
It turns out that humans are hard-wired for creating and pursuing finish lines of all sorts. How else can you rationally explain horse racing, college graduation, or The Bachelor? Let’s setup a finish line for ourselves, for no other reason than to give us some way to measure how far we’ve come and how fast. Naturally, the exclusivity created by having a finish line in place creates scarcity for all involved. The tougher the race, and the fewer winners there are, the more valuable the reward for those who persevere and finish strong. Are there financial finish lines? Are there moments in time when we should stop and celebrate crossing these financial thresholds?
Here are some meaningful financial mile-markers and finish lines:
- First Paying Job
- College Graduation
- First ‘Real’ Job
- First Home Purchase
- Forever/Dream Home Purchase
- Education Expenses Completed
- Consumer Debt Freedom (credit cards, car loans, etc.)
- Mortgage Payoff
- Financial Retirement
- Medicare Qualification
- Formalized and Funded Financial Legacy
While I’m sure there are some examples that I’ve missed, most of these mile-markers and finish lines are universal to us all. For better or worse, it’s the American Way. We steadily accumulate debt and assets, then work like crazy people to free ourselves from the burden of that debt, hopefully in time to enjoy a long enough and meaningful retirement. We’re not much different than marathon runners when we sign up for a punishing race only to celebrate when we’ve crossed the finish line. And while we could question that sanity of it all, it seems to be an expression of our very DNA to choose this adventure.
So if the race is worth running, it’s worth running as well as possible. To do that, it’s very helpful to settle in for a long journey, but also to become clear about where the important mile-markers are along the way, and to celebrate those as they’re achieved. Because the challenges can be so tough at times, it makes the finish line so difficult to reach yet so gratifying to experience. The reality is that not everyone finishes at all. Whether due to illness, injury, or lack of commitment, the coveted finish line is not guaranteed to any of us and will not be experienced by all of us. Planning then, is being as clear as possible about our objectives while also preparing for the inevitable obstacles.
If you or someone you know could use some guidance in pursuing the financial finish lines that are so critical to living a life well-lived, please encourage them to seek a trainer, an advisor. Because while not everyone can be a Boston Marathon winner, there are a whole lot of people who have a great time running their own race, as long as they can see an attainable finish line somewhere out on the horizon.
All the best,
Adam Cufr, RICP® | fineweb_edu |
Published on November 7th, 2010 | by thevyne0
Adventures in Friendship Across the Pond
If you think back to when you were in kindergarten, middle school and high school, you can probably name who your besties were and why. Fast forward to undergrad/grad school and you probably layered on a few more good girlfriends that you were for sure going to add to your eventual wedding party.
It seems for every stage in our lives, we have a group of great girlfriends to witness the trials, tribulations and jubilations of life with. While the scenery may change, the situation may change and our perspectives on life may change, the positive power of friendship, both old ones and new ones, remains the same.
Just last week we decided to take our friendship across the pond and experience an adventure abroad with few of our girlfriends. What ensued was a cathartic, sidesplitting good time from start to finish. So here’s a recap of some of our more comical adventures abroad:
- Mind the gap- If you’ve ever ridden the London underground train, then the words “mind the gap” mean something to you. They should also say, “mind the doors” because I was so busy minding the gap that I ran over about five pairs of toes trying to get my luggage and me off the tube before the doors closed.
- Crossing the street– Allison and I spent the first day exploring the streets of London. Discovering the winding roads and boutique shops was adventure enough but the biggest pedestrian challenge we faced was crossing the street. It seemed every cross walk we approached we couldn’t figure out whether to stop, walk or run due to lack of signage. So we opted for holding hands and darting across every street with an accompanying “ahhhhhhhh!!” until we reached the other side…at which point we let out a proud “yaaaaay!” We repeated this cycle for pretty much the entire day.
- Dancing in London – Somehow we worked our American magic and got in to a lounge/bar without having to pay two cover charges. Once inside we were surprised to discover that the soulful, melodic voice that was belting out Chaka Khan and Luther Vandross tunes was coming from a black woman. And in a show of karaoke solidarity we commenced to belting out the tunes right along with her and dancing as if no one was looking. We even cut a rug with a few friendly ol’ chaps. We ended the night by starting the electric slide…it didn’t quite catch on with the Brits but it was funny watching their faces as we twirled, shimmied and stepped like an R&B group.
- Europe’s Got Talent – The train ride from London to Paris was seamless. When we arrived we had to hop aboard their underground train to travel further into the city. As we were sitting on the train, taking in the fashion forwardness surrounding us, we began to hear “and then a hero comes aloooonnnng…. with the strength to carry oooonnnn” coming through a speaker. Yes folks, we were treated to a train performer, complete with her 80’s boom box, high tops and mic, singing Mariah like her life depended on it. She followed it up with a rousing rendition of Whitney Houston’s “Greatest Love of All” and a passing of the proverbial hat to collect a few Euros for her performance.
- Stuck in the Turnstile – We did our best to pack light but apparently our best wasn’t good enough as Kailei fell victim to the warp speed closing of the automatic turnstile. She made it through but her bag was good and stuck. So all three of us gave it the “ol’ heave ho” and ended up heaving the handle right off her suitcase. Finally a Frenchman took pity and loaned us a hand.
- Botched Attempts at Speaking French – We were determined not to be snooty Americans who insisted on speaking English. So every chance we got we attempted to speak our best version of French that we could muster. We must have sounded horrible though because whenever we spoke French, they answered back in English. For example, in a restaurant I struggled to say, “what are these?” in French to our waiter while pointing at a package on our table. With a slight raised eyebrow, our waiter replied “they’re breadsticks boo…breadsticks” (okay, he didn’t really say “boo”, but the sentiment was there). Example number two, when Allison said, with her best French accent, “Ou est la toilette?” to which the waiter replied, “you mean the bathroom boo? It’s downstairs.” (again, the “boo” was implied…but you get the point)
- Locked Out in London – We were all dolled up for a night out on the town and got so wrapped up in taking pics that somehow we forgot the keys to our flat. So instead of the night ending with dancing and champagne, it ended with a guy named Wayne (the locksmith) on a ladder, Allison working a crowbar through a mail slot and all of us plotting how we were going to scale a London wall to get in through the window. Lucky for us, Wayne was able to jimmy the lock after a couple of hours.
- Fievel in Paris – Our last night in Paris was spent having a yummy dinner, watching the Eiffel tower sparkle at midnight and riding around in a cab with a driver determined to take us to a jazz spot. At least that’s what we thought; all we could understand of her enthusiastic statement was “blah blah, blah de de blah…de jazz”. So we said, “Wi…take us to de jazz!” We never ended up finding “de jazz” but we did come across a local watering hole to have our final champagne toast of the trip. We were there for maybe an hour before I spotted Fievel scurrying his way across the floor! You can image what ensued next, a chourus of “Eeeeekkkk! A mouse!” followed by all of us jumping up on the chairs. The manager of the lounge didn’t take too kindly to our behavior as he promptly flung some French our way along with a few gestures that loosely translated meant, “Get your feet out of my chairs boo…it’s just a little mouse”
- Brit Patrol – Allison and I ended our British adventure with a typical French breakfast (salmon and eggs) and mimosas in the Heathrow airport. At some point we realized it was time to head to our gate. As luck would have it, we got held up at security which forced us to make a mad dash to our gate as the boarding status was now showing “CLOSING” for our flight. But of course we had to be flying out of the gate that was a country mile away from security. So as we ran at break neck speed for our gate, battling the nausea from the salmon and eggs now churning in our stomach and gasping for air as we laughed uncontrollably. We finally made it to the gate only to be greeted by a cranky gate attendant screaming, “Why are you so late?! This is bloody ridiculous! You know I was about to pull your bag off the plane right? This is a transatlantic flight!! You checked in hours ago, what took you so long?!” After our old fashioned British tongue lashing, we promptly boarded the plane bound for the city of brotherly love. | fineweb_edu |
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