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On pretty-boy programmers
A few days ago Spolsky, the software guru, wrote an interesting article about star programmers at work. The article highlights the importance of the KISS principle and how important is to avoid the corners of the platforms and programming languages (he repeatedly mentions how bad multiple inheritance is, and how hard certain technologies like COM and CORBA turn out to be).
I agree with his view but, unless I've lost the point, I find it dangerous (and it seems I'm not the only one) since the described ideas are only applicable for experts. I mean, saying things like bypassing unit testing is ok or XORing pointers is what rock-star programmers do, can at least confuse entry-level developers. In fact it heavily reminds me the lonesome programmer style described in several books and writings as something to avoid (if I remember correctly I think it was already mentioned in "The mythical man-month", at least some well-known agile books and for some reason I think at the "Goto- Sofware superheroes" book too). The kind of wild-guy who knows what to do, hates the rules, loves the "old-style" and so on. Spolsky calls them "pretty-boys". Funny.
Of course, Spolsky is right. Let me explain.
The best explanation I've read on the subject is "Pragmatic learning and thinking" by the pragmatic Andy Hunt. In chapter, titled "Journey from novice to expert", he explains the 5 stages in Dreyfus model:
- Expert
- Proficient
- Competent
- Advanced beginner
- Novice
and how experts rely on intuition while novices need clear rules to follow. In fact there's a good explanation about why an expert can't always exactly explain why something is ok and some other choice (for instance a way to code a method) is totally wrong, but they know it. The answer is that their knowledge is so deeply wired into their brains they don't really know why they know it, but they do. An extended explanation about linear mode and rich mode brain is also included (where linear is the rational part of the brain and rich is the artistic, non-verbal and highly imaginative one).
It is also interesting to know that most of the people on a certain activity (including programming) are at the advanced beginners level, and no matter how long they've been there, if they don't put the right pieces in place, they'll stay there forever. So, reaching the exceptional expert level is not a matter of time (as commonly thought) but a combination of skills, effort and following the right steps. Being able to move forward is not easy.
Why am I writing this? Well, I think the "pretty boy" programmers Joel Spolsky mentions are clearly gifted experts or at least proficient programmers. A different rule set is applied for these individuals. Once you master the subject, you're somehow allowed to break the rules, but not before
Let me explain with a simple example: many of us were taught back at the university that goto sentences were evil. Never use them! But then, later, you find out that it's not that bad to put gotos on your C code to place cleanup code (my all times favorite Code Complete includes an excellent explanation). So, which one is right? Mr. McConnell or your old programming professor? Both. A newbie (novice according to Dreyfus model) needs clear rules to follow. Don't write gotos is a clear one. Then you learn the entire thing, and understand some of the rules can be bent.
And the same is true for unit testing under high pressure, using weird pointer arithmetic and so on. But you have to master the basic first, which sometimes will take a lifetime.


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The Unknown Impact of Federal Fiscal Decisions
The "sequester" and other looming federal budget actions will affect governments at every level. These fiscal decisions will be made without adequate data and without the intergovernmental forums we need.
The federal deficit is not just a federal problem. Federal decisions about the best ways to cut programs and increase revenue should take into account all costs and benefits, including the effects on state and local governments. Yet opportunities for such critical discussions are hindered by a decline in our nation's capacity to collect and discuss useful data on how federal and state governments are linked.
At present, the impact on states is not part of the national debate on such pivotal issues as the mandatory across-the-board cuts required this coming January under the Budget Control Act (the "sequester") and the possible extension of the 2001/2003 tax cuts.
The outcome of these deliberations will affect not only federal services but also states facing tough budget choices of their own. As a result of the Great Recession, total state tax revenues declined by $97.9 billion, or 12 percent, in real terms from their 2008 peak to 2010. At the same time, demand for state services increased substantially. Because the downturn has been so long and so deep--and because the recovery has been so tepid--policymakers already have exhausted short-term fixes such as tapping into rainy-day funds, using one-time asset sales, increasing taxes temporarily, postponing construction or issuing more debt.
The importance of the states' relationship with the federal government is reflected in the fact that in 2010 federal grants provided, on average, $1 out of every $3 in state revenue. The percentage of general revenue supplied by federal grants was considerably higher for some states, such as Mississippi (50 percent), Louisiana (48 percent) and Arizona (47 percent), and lower in others such as Hawaii and Alaska (27 percent) and Virginia (25 percent).
In addition, states' tax codes are often linked in various ways to the federal tax code, so changes to federal tax policies directly affect state revenues--decreasing tax receipts in some cases and increasing receipts in others. For example, 36 states and the District of Columbia use a measure of adjusted income reported on the federal tax return as a base for calculating state income taxes.
Choices that federal policymakers are considering to cut the deficit could have a huge impact on funding to the states. Under the sequester, federal grant programs for the final three quarters of fiscal year 2013 could be reduced by roughly $7.5 billion, a decrease that would require difficult choices in order to absorb it in less than one full year.
The largest grants to states and local governments affected by the sequester would be programs that support local education agencies; special education; Head Start; nutrition programs for women, infants, and children; and energy assistance for low-income households. Changes to federal tax credits will influence state revenues as well. For example, 24 states and the District of Columbia offer child-care tax credits or deductions that are linked to the federal Child and Dependent Care Credit. These governments would see those linked revenues increase if the federal credit is reduced as currently scheduled in 2013.
Unfortunately, the increasing need to understand the evolving relationship between the federal and state governments coincides with reduced capacity to do so. Government institutions that once reviewed federal-state issues have been disbanded or given other priorities. For example, the Advisory Committee on Intergovernmental Relations, along with units that focused on this subject in the Office of Management and Budget, the Government Accountability Office and the Office of Personnel Management, ended in the 1980s and 1990s. The House and Senate intergovernmental relations subcommittees have been given other substantial responsibilities. And the Census Bureau recently decided to discontinue two significant sources of uniform data for federal-state fiscal information.
The decline in national capacity for data-gathering and analysis makes it more difficult to ensure that policymakers take into account the full impact of federal decisions on the American people, not just the fiscal impact on a particular level of government. Without adequate data and discussion, there is increased risk that decisions will not solve problems but simply pass them on to others.
The best decisions will be made with good data in hand and federal, state and local perspectives at the table. Ongoing opportunities for dialogue and comprehensive facts about the benefits and consequences are vital to identifying solutions that lead to long-term fiscal stability and effective services at all levels of government. And that outcome is what ultimately will deliver results in the public's best interest.

subset: commoncrawl


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There were still drunken 20-somethings. Still crowds making a ruckus. And people throwing up after one too many beers.
But this year — unlike at recent Preakness Stakes when infield crowds gained a reputation for debauchery and rowdy stunts like port-a-potty races — racegoers said the party was less out of control. The infield drew both casual fans, who came just to hang out, and well-dressed and well-heeled racing patrons — the type you usually find in the VIP tents or grandstands.
"I've never seen so many people in clothes as this year," said Cobey Dumbravo, 49, a Baltimore resident who has been attending the Preakness since the late 1970s.
For years, race organizers have been trying to strike a delicate balance between rowdy attendees and refined horse racing fans at the Preakness, the state's single largest sporting event.
After ending the bring-your-own-beer policy in 2009, alienating the younger crowd that parties in the infield, the Maryland Jockey Club appears to have won them back in recent years with quirky advertising campaigns and the $20 Mug Club, which allows unlimited beer refills.
The Jockey Club also revved up its live entertainment acts, bringing well-known names such as Bruno Mars last year and Maroon 5 and Wiz Khalifa this year. And Preakness organizers attracted much publicity for the race's mascot, "Kegasus," in its second year.
Attendance hit a record 121,300 this year.
Anthony Guglielmi, Baltimore police spokesman, reported one person was arrested and nine were ejected, mostly for disorderly conduct and excessive drinking. Several hundred city officers were on hand, in addition to private security. Drinking wasn't a huge problem, he said.
"It's a much classier event," Guglielmi said. "People are having a great time."
Police Commissioner Frederick H. Bealefeld III also noticed a different atmosphere in the infield. Bealefeld, who is scheduled to step down from his position Aug. 1, has overseen security at the race for the past five years as commissioner but has worked the event for much longer.
"As a rookie cop, I was out here in the heyday, when it was real crazy," Bealefeld said. "It's like things in the city, like things in the Police Department: This event has changed and evolved over the years."
Cal Stafilatos, 36, of Baltimore upgraded his seats this year to the more expensive grandstand after about seven years in the infield. He brought his girlfriend, Alexias Ebert, 30, who was attending her first Preakness.
Even though they had nicer seats, they ventured over to the infield to check out the scene.
"The grandstand is maintained drunks, while this is crazy drunks," Ebert said as she surveyed the infield crowd.
Stafilatos recalled the scene in the infield in previous years, when people would toss beer cans into the crowd, sometimes hitting others. This year, he wanted to experience the race at a spot where the lines for alcohol are shorter and patrons get a better view of the race. Some patrons in the infield complained about long lines, some lasting up to 45 minutes.
While some VIPs ventured into the infield, especially for the music, others stuck to their pricier locations. Serious race fans spent hundreds of dollars to be in VIP sections, including the Turfside Terrace, where crab cakes, tenderloins, chicken and Cold Stone Creamery ice cream were served.
Even the portable toilet in that section was fancy, with a granite-like sink, where worker Christine Johnson cleaned up and attended to the women.
Johnson, who worked this weekend for $7.25 an hour — minimum wage — said she lucked out on this assignment and got what she called generous tips. One woman handed her a $20 bill, complimenting Johnson's demeanor and service.
"I'm blessed to have this position today," she said.
Michele Gugliotta, 52, of Fallston, has been attending the Preakness for the past 15 years with her husband, Brian. As a serious racing fan, Gugliotta said she has paid for better seats to get the best view of the races. This year, the couple hung out at the Turfside Terrace, just a few steps away from the infield.
While Gugliotta has seen the infield party get out of control in the past, she has seen a difference the past few years.
"We tiptoed over. I'm happy to say we safely came back," Gugliotta said jokingly. "I think the infield is a great place. It's safe and fun to go over."
Baltimore Sun reporter Yvonne Wenger contributed to this article.
There were still drunken 20-somethings. Still crowds making a ruckus. And people throwing up after one too many beers.


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Boards oppose ABC privatization
How liquor is sold in North Carolina could change in light of recent discussions about privatization of the state's Alcoholic Beverage and Control system.
Privatization, however, won't happen if area governance boards have their way.
The Catawba County Board of Commissioners adopted a resolution to support the continuance of the current ABC system, and it opposed efforts to privatize the system.
Catawba County received about $1 million for fiscal year 2010-11 from the ABC system. Privatization of the system could eliminate that funding, which is the equivalent of about two-thirds of a cent on the tax rate, said Lee Worsley, Catawba County assistant manager.
More than $275 million was distributed into North Carolina's general fund and state counties and cities from state ABC boards in 2009, according to the N.C. ABC Commission.
Currently, Catawba County's ABC system is controlled by a local board that maintains control on decisions for the county's ABC stores, including hiring and firing ABC employees and adopting local system rules. System privatization will allow non-government entities, like private businesses, to sell liquor.
"If you go into privatization, you lose the local control," Worsley said.
North Carolina has 167 local ABC boards that control the state's 422 retail ABC stores, according to the N.C. ABC commission.
The North Carolina Budget Reform and Accountability discussed the state's ABC system during several of its recent meetings. The commission is designed to make state government more effective and efficient, and in light of North Carolina's projected $3.2-billion shortfall, the state could turn to the ABC system as a way to close the gap.
"I have believed for a long time there has to be a real examination of privatization," Gov. Bev Perdue told the Greensboro News & Record on Dec. 16. "I'm not quite there yet. I need to know what it's worth to the taxpayers. I need to know what kind of damage it would do to local governments and how you protect them."
Perdue said she will wait several weeks to make a decision about privatization until after she receives a consultant's report about the system.
The state ABC system came under scrutiny in recent years, with claims of corruption and mismanagement at boards in Guilford and Mecklenburg counties.
Catawba County Board of Commissioners chairwoman Kitty Barnes said she has a good working relationship with the county's ABC board.
"I would say that we have a very healthy relationship, and (the county ABC board) operates above board compliance," Barnes said.
Barnes receives monthly minutes from the county's ABC meetings.
N.C. Association of ABC Boards lobbyist Jon P. Carr wrote a letter Dec. 14 on behalf of the commission, announcing its opposition to privatization efforts.
"Studies have shown that privatization will result in a marked increase in the number of outlets ... longer hours of sale, greater advertising and more promotion and significantly more consumption," Carr said in his letter addressed to N.C. Speaker of the House Joe Hackney. "Greater consumption results in greater harms and greater costs to society."
Barnes said another potential complication in the privatization of the ABC system lies in the system's facilities. County revenue built the facilities that house ABC stores, and privatization makes it difficult to determine how the ownership is transferred on those buildings.
The Joint Study Committee on Alcoholic Beverage Control presented a report to the N.C. General Assembly in May outlining its findings after researching the state's current ABC system.
The report made two recommendations, including providing for the statewide consistency and uniformity in ABC system rules and ethics standards, as well as the continued review of the state's ABC system.


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I'm sending you this notice to let you know that our friend
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Hey all,
It's almost the end of the year! I'm starting to reflect on my board gaming experiences this year. First thought, what a year! I wasn't sure how to whittle down all the awesome games that I played this year. What I want to do is find a way to share as many great games and experiences as possible with you and steer clear of ranking games. I will most likey do a GOTY, but I will stay away from categories.
I decided create a "I Appreciate You 2017" series, to share some of my favorite experiences at the table this year. Some of the games you will see aren't 2017 releases, but still made an impact on me this year. Each post will be short and sweet just like this one. I'll give a quick overview and maybe a story that goes a little deeper than surface level excitement.
Please feel free to share some of the games you appreciate from this year. If you had a boardgaming experience that stuck with you…..share your story! If you have any question about the games I spotlight for a particular post, please ask away. My Christmas giveaway ends on December 25th, so if you're just stopping by the site for the first time, click on the giveaway post!


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Requirements: 5.0+
Overview: MUVIZ is a first of its kind app that displays a Music Visualizer beneath your Navbar while you are listening to your favourite music from your favourite apps. NO root required.
Bring your Music Experience to life with Floating Visualization beneath your on-screen Navigation Bar.
Don't have an on-screen Navbar on your phone? no worries, you can still make the app show Visualizer above your Hardware Navigation.
MUVIZ not only enhances your music experience, it also elevates your video experience by showing visualizations over your favourite video apps like Youtube, MX Player, etc., Your lyric video collections are no more a boring set of scrolling texts.
You have an option to select from growing set of stock Visualization designs and,
it doesn't end up there. You can customize every aspect of stock design according to your needs.
Customization includes Colors, Shapes, Size and everything you can imagine.
Still not satisfied? Then, you have an option to create your own visualization designs with our Creator Tool bundled in our app. Cool na!
Go ahead and enjoy!
Why Visualization beneath navigation bar gets hidden when certain apps like Spotify and Chrome are launched?
These apps use their own navigation bar style which cannot be overridden. Use Visualization position as 'Above Navbar' to enjoy Viz over these apps.
Why Visualization gets hidden when the Keyboard is active?
The Visualization is intentionally made hidden to avoid hindrance while typing.
Why Visualization is not visible on my device with hardware navigation?
To see visualization on device with hardware navigation, select visualization position as 'Above Navbar' from app settings.
Why Visualization do not react properly to some of my music apps?
The app visualizes what the music and video player apps provides them. We do noted that some of the apps sends out dummy audio data which in turn comes out as fake visualization. An alert will be shown when an app sends out dummy data.
If you face any issues, don't hesitate to drop us a mail at [email protected]
What's New:
– Option to select music sources.
– Enhancements, cleanups and other fixes.
Mod Info:
Standalone Android Package;
Android App Bundle Repacked (Split APKs Packer v4.5.1 by KirIif'):
• Supported CPU architecture: universal;
• Supported Screen DPIs: lhdpi [120dpi], hdpi [240dpi], xhdpi [320dpi], xxhdpi [480dpi], xxxhdpi [640dpi];
• Languages: Multi Languages;
Pro features unlocked;
Disabled / Removed unwanted Permissions + Receivers and Services;
Analytics / Crashlytics disabled.
This app has no advertisements
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If you want to download at full speed and help us keep this site active, you can register by clicking on the banner below.
Download Instructions:


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Graffiti's played an important part in video games since early days, especially on console. Who can forget Jet Grind Radio's neon-colored spray paint? And, of course, Marc Ecko's Getting Up centered its entire essence on the politics around graf writing.
But upcoming PS3 game Papo & Yo might boast the most painterly street art ever. As shown off on the official PlayStation blog, the adornments on the buildings in Minority's magical realist adventure will sport the work of three real-life celebrity graf artists from Latin America:
Sebastian Navarro (AKA Charquipunk), Simon Paulo Arancibia Gutierrez (AKA La Robot de Madera) and Inti Castro (AKA INTI) are the three celebrity graffiti artists lending their work to Papo & Yo. Charquipunk is known for his intricately detailed large-scale designs of cats and birds, while La Robot de Madera focuses on elaborate portraits. INTI is known for his work with kusillo, the Altiplano carnival clown whose costumes consist of clothing scraps. When they collaborate, which is often, each artist's style is still distinct, but their synergy is electric.
It seems like there's not going be any kind of game mechanics attached to the artists' work. I like that the trio's contributions are there to add eye-popping touchstones to the real world in the a surrealist game. Papo & Yo will be one hell of a visual feast when it comes out in two weeks.


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Part of PWN Global's Preparing for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Webinar Series
Women in particular tend to hold back on their dreams for fear of judgement.
"Who am I to want / have / be that? Who are you not to be?", as Marianne Williamson said.
This webinar will distinguish between the two main types of judgement, how to free yourself from the fear of it, and how to make decisions quickly to ensure you are shaping your future and clearing the path towards it.


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Webinar, Wednesday, March 20, 2013, 2PM EDT
Givat Shmuel, Israel – March 17, 2013 – Cimatron Limited (NASDAQ and TASE: CIMT) announced today that it will be hosting a webinar with MoldMaking Technology magazine on cost-effective approaches to simulating and modifying mold geometry.
Many plastic parts are challenging to mold within tolerance on the first, second and sometimes third shot. A variety of factors affect the shrink and warp of the part. Owing to the traditionally high cost of simulation, many shops still opt for machining the cavity to a steel-safe condition, molding the part and then reworking the mold according to the deformation.
The webinar will explore how some tool shops have found a cost-effective means of simulation and easy modification of the mold geometry.
The webinar will include a demonstration of key CimatronE functionality that can assist tool shops, including the new advanced warping tools that feature in the latest version of the software, CimatronE 11.
In particular, the webinar will demonstrate how successful tool shops can:
- utilize cost-effective CAE tools;
- employ advanced warping tools to modify geometry with a deformation compensation percentage;
- use efficient toolpaths with multiple surface offset groups to minimize CAD work;
- provide shorter lead times to their customers; and
- advertise this capability as a value added service.
To register, click here.
About Cimatron
With more than 30 years of experience and more than 40,000 installations worldwide, Cimatron is a leading provider of integrated, CAD/CAM software solutions for mold, tool and die makers as well as manufacturers of discrete parts. Cimatron is committed to providing comprehensive, cost-effective solutions that streamline manufacturing cycles and ultimately shorten product delivery time.
The Cimatron product line includes the CimatronE and GibbsCAM brands with solutions for mold design, die design, electrodes design, 2.5 to 5 axes milling, wire EDM, turn, mill-turn, rotary milling, multi-task machining, and tombstone machining. Cimatron's subsidiaries and extensive distribution network serve and support customers in the automotive, aerospace, medical, consumer plastics, electronics, and other industries in over 40 countries worldwide.
Cimatron's shares are publicly traded on the NASDAQ exchange and the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange under the symbol CIMT. For more information, please visit Cimatron's web site at: http://www.cimatron.com
This press release includes forward looking statements, within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are subject to risk and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. Such statements may relate to Cimatron's plans, objectives and expected financial and operating results. The words "may," "could," "would," "will," "believe," "anticipate," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "plan," and similar expressions or variations thereof are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond Cimatron's ability to control. The risks and uncertainties that may affect forward looking statements include, but are not limited to: currency fluctuations, global economic and political conditions, marketing demand for Cimatron products and services, long sales cycles, new product development, assimilating future acquisitions, maintaining relationships with customers and partners, and increased competition. For more details about the risks and uncertainties related to Cimatron's business, refer to Cimatron's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Cimatron cannot assess the impact of or the extent to which any single factor or risk, or combination of them, may cause. Cimatron undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
For More Information Contact:
Ilan Erez
Chief Financial Officer
Cimatron Ltd.
Phone: +972 73 237 0114
Email: [email protected]
Idit Pass Lagziel
Marketing Manager
Cimatron Ltd.
Phone: +972 73 237 0298
Email: [email protected]
Investor Relations contact:
Ehud Helft/Kenny Green
CCG Investor Relations
Tel: (US) 1 646 201 9246
Email: [email protected]


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French Runner Takes His Adrenaline High Out on a Mascot
After winning the 3,000-meter steeplechase race at the European Championships in Helsinki, Finland, French runner Mahiedine Mekhissi-Benabbad naturally got hyped. It was just too bad for the mascot that found herself in the middle of it.
As Benabbad was being followed by television cameras, the Championship mascot better known as "Appy" attempted to give hand a gift bag.
Underneath that uniform was a 14-year-old girl, but Mahiedine didn't know that and he knocked the gift bag out of her hand and shoved her back. Isn't that what everyone wants to do when they've just won something and are high on adrenaline?
This wasn't Benabbad's only instance of mascot-pushing during his running career as back in 2010, he pushed another mascot at those European Championships. You'd think he would've learned from the first time.


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|Thread Tools
|SRB2 Demo 2 Remaster - 2.1.17, Beta 1 Details »»
SRB2 Demo 2 Remaster - 2.1.17, Beta 1
Developer Last Online: Jun 2020
This level pack is a remaster of the 20 scrapped maps that SSNTails made for the single player campaign for Demo 2 with some improvements in some unfinished cases, the official first 4, 3 completely new maps, 7 special stages from Demo 4.35 and some secret stuff.
This level pack was made with help from Lobco, his profile is https://mb.srb2.org/member.php?u=6532.
Features old midi music, XMas Tails and Demo 4 Knux (Credit to red the fox, MetalSonicmk72 and Wolfy for the character and allowing this be free access for all) with their old sprites and old sfx along the old maps, for a more authentic demo 2 experience. Turn the quality to 320x200 for extra demo 2 immersion.
Extra props to Wolfy again for the Multi-thok lua file.
Now: Demo wad characters are not exclusive to the wad anymore. Download the demo characters rar file to get them in a separate wad.
Download Now
Supporters / CoAuthors
Show Your Support
& Knuckles
Nevermind that; This is the wrong WAD altogether. Sorry. =/
Last edited by Blaze The Cat; 03-25-2017 at 08:04 AM.
Emblem Radar Ready
About that one way thing in Mine maze, I still don't think it's a good idea when the one way path is the only path.
I think to be a little bit more fair, it would be best to make those closers into moving crushers instead. Maybe even review how the stage worked in demo 2.
For example, the very first path close, and the only one really on Demo 2's development version of Mine Maze, there is a second path that opens to allow other players to get through. This would indicate that the original level designer was already thinking about this problem.
Welcome to my Dimension
However, not replacing every one-time crushers and just some cases would be a good idea. It'd stripe it away from its bullshit design, but hey, sacrifices.
Also, I played complete Demo 2 a lot now, and I think its pretty safe to say that that path doesn't open up until you get past that crusher.
Emblem Radar Ready
I'm sure you also noticed that the first crusher also rose up from the ground too?
Also what's the player suppose to do if they trigger the one time crusher that doesn't reset and wind up on the wrong side of it? there is dangerous, and then there is impossible.
(also Sonic 2's Mystic cave had the repeating crushers too)
Welcome to my Dimension
Also, don't compare Mystic Cave to Mine Maze. They're two completely different things AND those crushers did look very odd!
PK3 Fetishist
Mystic Cave looked like a Mine tho, but yeah I agree that those Floor crushers looked weird.
Also known as "RTB" on Discord
Woah. Its really been 6 months, huh? I guess I need at least a textual update on this thing. But if you need a TL;DR that badly: School. Laziness. Sorry. I'll be back on this soon.
If you guys want to know the full story: Lets just say one of the reasons I did this with Lobco was to not dissapoint him, be productive and finish this project, unlike many other proyects in my life. But look where we are now! (I also did it with him because he's a great guy and he helped me out a lot when I was on vacation, don't get the wrong idea.) I've also had school the past 6 months and the next 3 too because south hemisphere is desynched with the north 6 months, so I had summer when I did this whole thing. Last year of high-school got tougher than I expected, and it was either I finish this thing in time, or I finish school in time. Now that things are relaxing, I think I can slowly come back to this.
I'm sorry, honestly. I know little to no one still cares about this, but I do. I did this because I wanted to be connected with old SRB2, I actually enjoyed the mythical history and evolution of this game, and I felt like I needed to provide a way to enjoy, with modern software and easy access the old classic Demo 2 single player campaign that was supposed to release in 2001 before STJr found out all they could do with the game. So I did this, as a tribute.
Now, I cannot assure if I'll come back to the single player campaign. Even though custom enemies need to be made, and I need to make this super duper a-ok, I don't know if I still have the emotional motivation to continue with the single player campaign. SRB2 TGF Remade though, will *probably* get finished, and while I don't like setting deadlines (We all know what happened 6 months ago related to that!), I do feel like that's another game that needs to be homaged and converted to Modern SRB2 the way the Demo 2 campaign was. Yes, FOF Slopes will be a thing. Yes, it will take time, 2D levels means LOTS OF FOFs (GHZ2 knows that very well.) and Yes, it will have great backgrounds that are more than just one color: cyan. Those are the only things I can actually assure though.
What else can I say? Oh yeah, the levels that were finished from SRB2 TGF when I left were: GHZ1, GHZ3, THZ1, THZ2 (Love this one), THZ3 (Need to make the boss, level itself is made), DSZ1 (With actual water on a great chunk of the level), DSZ3 (Same as THZ3), and the last two levels bar the final 2 bosses.
One more thing, oh boy, I was really condescending on these messages. I'm sorry if I came off as a douche to anyone, I just liked how I actually kinda finished this project.
Oh, one actual last thing, secret levels will be worked on and playable by the release of Update 5.
That's it? I think so.
Last edited by IFrickBees1; 09-27-2017 at 06:03 PM. Reason: Why did I even put an interrogation sign there?
wake me up when 2.3 is out
This is a pretty good representation of what demo 2 was like.Looks like ugly knux came back looking uglier than ever
Last edited by Rapid; 09-27-2017 at 04:38 PM.
I know this is kinda old, but for some reason every zone after Greenflower makes the game crash in a different way. After beating GFZ Act 3 the screen goes black. Trying to select other zones from the server setup screen freezes the game.
The new 2.1.21 update seems to have broken the mod, game "freezes" upon completion of GFZ Act 3 - has a ghosting effecting on menus and stuff, has a SIGSEGV Violation error
Certified Emerald Hunter for online matches
-Oldbie that still sucks-
Still waiting for Controller Support to be fixed...
The game seems to crash/softlock after GFZ Act 3, might wanna fix that
Certified Emerald Hunter for online matches
-Oldbie that still sucks-
Still waiting for Controller Support to be fixed...
Seems that I've been having the same problem. The game freezes after the boss fight in Greenflower Zone Act 3.
To validate the stages were there, I opened the main .wad in slade and looked through the MAP section. All of the "unplayable" maps were there, mainly MAP04 (Techno Hill Zone Act 1). In the MAINCFG, I found our issue. Outside of Greenflower, each zone's Act 1 attempts to load a PreCutsceneNum that doesn't exist. The only cutscene that exists in the .wad is CUTSCENE 127, which won't load in the game by any normal means. Upon removing all PreCutsceneNum for each Act 1, the stages become playable.
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A Sandwich A Day: Cachapas from Cachapas Y Mas
A new sandwich every day.
In this great city of ours, one could eat a different sandwich every day of the year—so that's what we'll do. Here's A Sandwich a Day, our daily look at sandwiches around New York. Got a sandwich we should check out? Let us know. —The Mgmt.
Baby corn cakes used like slabs of bread for a sandwich? I'll definitely try that. Cachapas are Venezuelan corn cake sandwiches filled with any type of meat, as well as lettuce and tomato. Opting for the mixto ($7) with any choice of two meats, my huge sandwich from Cachapas Y Mas was filled with carne mechada (shredded beef) and pernil (pork). The meats were chewy and a little dry, but the corn cakes more than compensated—I knew I could eat them just by themselves. The corn slabs were pleasantly sweet with the occasional crunch of a corn kernel.
Cachapas Y Mas and its sister restaurant Patacon Con Too, which are not affiliated with Patacon Pisao, sell cachapas for $4.75 to $7, depending on choice of filling. The menu offers plenty of other sandwiches, such as patacones, or green plantain sandwiches; and arepas, or corn cake sandwiches smaller than the cachapas. And if that weren't enough to try, there are also tacuchos, or Venezuelan style burritos; pepitos (another type of sandwich) and hamburguesas.
Cachapas Y Mas
107 B Dyckman Street, New York NY 10034 (map)
All products linked here have been independently selected by our editors. We may earn a commission on purchases, as described in our affiliate policy.


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It was not long ago that a bill was tabled in the US Congress in support of giving Balochistan – the land of the Baloch – the right to self-determination against their 'forced accession' into Pakistan on March 27, 1948. The day is still mourned as a Black Day throughout the Baloch land, including parts of the provincial capital, Quetta.
In the year 1971, the erstwhile East Pakistan had already witnessed a bloody independence war with Pakistan, which culminated in the creation of the country now known as Bangladesh – it was a real bloody war since hundreds of thousands of people were massacred in this 'genocide' to crush the Bengali freedom-fighters.
In the present times, however, it is not just Balochistan which has the separatist sentiments, but Sindh under the leadership of Mr. G.M. Syed, has also been fighting for independence soon after the creation of Pakistan. Continue reading "JSQM's Freedom March to Demand Independence for Sindh"


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Senses and highlights over 70,000 known dangerous default settings, misconfigurations and software flaws so you can take corrective action before an attack occurs.
Identifies key vulnerabilities and enriches scans with network asset information, security configurations, flow data, logs and threat intelligence to address vulnerabilities and achieve compliance.
Saves time and labor by combining data from IBM and third party scanners. Delineates nonthreatening vulnerabilities such as those on inactive applications from critical ones needing attention.


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Fossil 24Mm Orange Silicone Watch Strap
$8 $25
Give your watch a new look with this orange silicone strap. It fits any case with 24mm lugs. Don't forget to check out all of our compatible24mm watchesfor this design, or see all of ourinterchangeable watchesfor more styles and colors.
Browse all deals at Fossil
See more in Watches
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* This offer may contain time-sensitive information and offers. Please check with Fossil to confirm actual price & availability.
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Graduate School
If you are thinking about going to a graduate or professional school, you need to PREPARE.
You must
- Research schools
- Meet academic requirements
- Apply for admission
- Get accepted
- If applicable, you should also register with the Pre-Health or Pre-Law Programs
The Student Success Center offers prep courses and testing dates for the GRE, GMAT and LSAT tests.
A comparison of schools and programs across the country, application and interview tips, and reviews can be found through GradSchools.com.
Research Available ProgramsGraduate programs
Graduate School Expo
Health Professions Advising Center
Pre-Law Advising and Resource Center
Teacher Development Center's Teacher Certification
Talk with Faculty
Talk with Current Graduate Students
Other Resources
- FastWeb - The oldest and most popular free online scholarship matching service
- FinAid - The most comprehensive annotated collection of information about student financial aid on the web, including scholarships
- FAFSA - U.S. Department of Education site for completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Connects to additional information on aid programs
- NASFAA - National Association of Student Financial Aid (NASFAA). Several Sections related to financial assistance programs
Related Web Sites
- Check individual university websites
- Check graduate/professional school websites
- Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC)
- BrainTrack
- CollegeNet
- FindTheBest
- How To Be A "Good" Graduate Student
- Kaplan
- Knewton
- Learn Psychology
- Masters in Education Guide
- Online Psychology Degrees.com
- Psychology DegreeGuide.org
- Peterson's Guides
- Princeton Review
- Yahoo's List of Universities
Pay Attention to Requirements
Prerequisites -
Read the fine print! Be sure you know if there are course prerequisites or other experiences and/or qualifications required for admission into the program. Some programs may, however, admit students who do not have all required prerequisites on a probationary status until the requirements are met.
Testing -
Many programs require one or more graduate exams as a part of the application process. Because these exams are not always offered in convenient locations or at convenient times, be sure you inquire early. Most of these exams also have a cost attached to them. The UT Dallas Learning Resource Center administers some of the tests referenced above and has more information on many more.
Get Started on Applications Early
Contacting the School -
A direct phone inquiry to the specific department or graduate college of interest to you gives you the opportunity to ask questions, get immediate answers, and clarify confusing details. Be sure you have your questions ready and consider time zone differences. Of course, you may write to the school instead, but it will take longer to get answers to your questions.
Application Forms -
Many schools now have their application forms online. Do not cut corners or be careless. Complete your application materials with care, avoiding errors and misrepresentation of any kind. Be sure to note application deadlines.
Letters of Recommendation -
Most programs require two to four letters of recommendation from former employers, professors, or other individuals who are able to provide insight into your candidacy for the program. Plan ahead and make your selection of reference writers carefully. Give your references plenty of lead time to write the letter so you will not miss application deadlines. Provide them with application deadlines and a stamped, addressed envelope. It would also be beneficial to discuss your interest and the specifics of the program to which you are making application with your references.
Transcripts -
Most programs require that you send a record of all undergraduate and/or other graduate coursework you have completed. An 'official' copy is usually required from the institution that granted you the credit. You will need to provide each institution with the appropriate mailing address(es) and application deadlines. Most institutions assess a transcript fee for each copy requested.
Personal Essay -
Graduate programs also usually require that you submit a personal essay to prove you are a good candidate for their program. This essay should include your academic ability, prior experience, and proof of your dedication to the field of study. Take this step seriously. If an interview is not required, this may be your only opportunity to market yourself directly.
Interviews -
Some graduate programs require a personal interview. A personal interview can work to your advantage. It gives you an opportunity to market yourself and show the level of your interest in person and to gather more specific information about the institution and the program. Be sure to ask about potential interviews early so you can be well-prepared. You may also want to consider scheduling a mock interview opportunity in the Career Center to practice your approach.
Links To Other Resources -
The following links provide additional help in preparing for your application to graduate and/or professional schools.
- Graduate School and Careers in Psychology - Provides a focus on resources related to graduate programs in psychology.
- College of William & Mary Guide - Even though this link goes to the William & Mary Career Center page, there is helpful information when considering graduate school.
Consider Financial Matters
Cost of Application Process -
Most schools assess application fees that can range between $20 and $100. There are also costs for graduate exams, having scores sent to schools, and having transcripts sent. It is not uncommon for the entire process to cost several hundred dollars. Keep this in mind when you are considering making application to 10 different programs.
Graduate Assistantships -
Assistantships vary from program to program and from institution to institution. Some institutions offer a stipend and often some kind of tuition waiver. It is important to submit applications early since there are usually a limited number of positions available and it is a very competitive process. Interviews may also be requested before assistantships are granted; these should be approached like any other employment interview.
Internships -
Some programs offer internships that carry academic credit for your work. Not all of these offer a stipend, but some do.
Scholarships -
Many schools offer graduate scholarship programs. In addition, there are some federal, state, and locally funded scholarships available to graduate students. Financial Aid Offices on most campuses can assist you in locating information about various scholarship programs.
Educational Loans -
Another way to fund your educational endeavors is by securing educational loans. Many of these loan programs carry low interest rates and require no payments until after you secure your degree. The Financial Aid Office also has information on available graduate student loan programs.


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Neurogastroenterology: The Study of Our Second Brain January 1, 2013Posted by ToYourHealth in Public Health.
Tags: Anxiety, Brain/Gut, Diabetes, Diet, Enteric nervous system, Gastrointestinal illness, Health, Neurogastroenterology
4 comments
Early in embryogenesis our brains and our gut are formed from the same tissue mass with one half becoming the central nervous system and the other the enteric nervous system, connected by the vagus nerve. Half our nerves are located in our brain, and half in the gut which translates into a lot more than feeling butterflies in our stomach when we're nervous.
This enteric nervous system is comprised of one hundred million autonomously functioning neurons, neurotransmitters and proteins with the ability to communicate with the central nervous system through the vagus nerve and parasympathetic nervous system. Coupled with the intestinal microbiome, it's been coined our "second brain" by Dr. Michael Gershon, professor of anatomy and cell biology at Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center in New York City in 1988. What we put into one brain drastically affects the other.
If we add the nerve cells of the esophagus, stomach and large intestine, there are more nerve cells in the gut than there are in the entire remainder of the peripheral nervous system. Nearly every chemical that controls the brain in the head has been identified in the gut, including hormones and neurotransmitters.
Flora, the microorganisms that typically inhabit a body organ, while plentiful, have not evolved enough to withstand processed and junk foods. Intestinal flora is also destroyed by considerable amounts of stress, alcohol, and antibiotics which will leave a body more open to infection.
Brain/Gut Disease States
Nearly 60 million people suffer from digestive issues, often resulting from poor management of the second brain. Many are temporary ill feelings, while others are chronic and debilitating. The brain/gut connection has spurned interest in new research and procedures.
Gastrointestinal: The gut produces 95% of mood-stabilizing serotonin. So when it's not functioning properly, our moods will show it. Conversely, when brain chemistry is off-balance, the bowels will suffer. Nearly 90% of people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and non-ulcerative dyspepsia suffer from some sort of mental anxiety (or worse). These patients also frequently encounter abnormal REM sleep and wake feeling fatigued. These sleep disorders are often treated with low-dose antidepressants, regularly prescribed to treat IBS, depression, PTSD and bacterial infections.
Diabetes: Now epidemic in many countries, diabetes' side effects can be devastating to the body, and treatment and utilization rates are drowning health care resources. The race is on to find new methods to slow glucose production to decrease related morbidity. Clinical trials show that fats activate a subset of nerves in the intestine, signaling the brain, which then signals the liver, to reduce glucose production. This helps to slow the production of sugar in the body. Now the gut, instead of the brain, will be the target for new therapies.
Anxiety and Depression: Antidepressant drugs commonly cause gastrointestinal problems such as nausea, diarrhea and constipation. This is because they inhibit the uptake of serotonin, normally calming to the digestive tract. Morphine and heroin act on the central nervous system and attach to the gut's opiate receptors, producing constipation. The gut also produces benzodiazepines, chemicals that relieve pain and are found in anti-anxiety drugs like Valium. In extreme pain, the gut over-produces these chemicals and sends them to the brain. Stress signals are sent to the enteric nervous system, slowing digestion while the intestines painfully contract.
GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease or heartburn): Prevalence of GERD has increased 50% in the past decade, affecting 20% of adults. Stress, a common cause of acid reflux and chronic heartburn, excites areas of the brain that make esophageal pain receptors more active. These patients often have a drop in prostaglandins which coat the stomach lining and protect it from acid. Anti-inflammatory drugs reduce production of prostaglandins, which is why this class of drug commonly causes ulcers and nausea. Add alcohol to stress, and the increase in stomach acid weakens the esophageal sphincter allowing caustic acid into your upper GI tract.
Settle Your Stomach
Try incorporating these into your lifestyle for good gut/brain health:
- Probiotics
- Turmeric
- Digestive enzymes
- Kefir
- Ginger
- Eliminate fatty foods and caffeine (try calming herbal teas, like chamomile)
- Stay hydrated
- Improve posture
What's your gut feeling?
Related Reading:
Lipman, Frank, MD, (2011) Revive: Stop Feeling Spent And Start Living Again.
The Gut-Brain-Liver Axis: A New Option to Treat Obesity and Diabetes? (www.onlinelibrary.wiley.com)
Foods that Fight Heartburn (www.LIVESTRONG.com)


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Sound Cards
Individual Computers: Delfina Flipper
|Connection: PCI, Zorro II
Hi Res Version, Front - 306K
Hi Res Version, Back - 228K
The Delfina flipper is developed in cooperation with the developer team of Petsoff in Finland and Individual Computers. Individual computers licensed the original hardware design from Petsoff and improved upon it. The Delfina flipper comes on two boards, the first board is the sound card itself, whist the second is the flipper interface card. The flipper card allows the Delfina to be used in a Zorro II slot or in a PCI slot such as those on PCI busboards or even in a Pegasos. It can also use the clock port in the A1200. It offers all the features of the Delfina Plus, and more. The card contains a fast 67.73Mhz (prototype versions were 73.7Mhz but suffered from heat problems) Motorola DSP (56002) which 96Kb of 12ns SRAM that is capable of 220 MOPS. Sound playback is via a 16bit 48Khz codec. Early prototype versions of the card required frequencies other than 48Mhz, 44.1Khz and 32Khz to be played back by re-sampling however this is not required on the release version due to an updated CS4321A codec. This sound card is capable of playing more AHI channels than any other Amiga sound card, partly due to the redesigned Zorro II interface compared to earlier versions of the board which has nearly doubled the performance. As mentioned, the card can also be connected to the clock-port in an A1200, however a towered A1200 is highly recommended because the physical dimensions of the card do not allow proper mounting of the card in a standard A1200 case. The A1200 clockport cannot reach the performance of the Zorro II bus, however it is still enough to playback several AHI channels and of course playback MP3 files. For connection to the A1200's clock port an optional connection kit is required.
(Note: Connections may vary between cards)
2 x RCA Connectors
5 x 4 pin headers
1 x MIDI IN (if flipper interface is used)
1 x MIDI OUT (if flipper interface is used)
1 x SPDIF connector (if flipper interface is used)
Contributions to this page by:
Christian Krenner, Francfort Nicolas, Jari Eskelinen, Karoly Balogh
Letzte Änderung des Artikels: 2009-01-29 11:29
Revision: 1.0
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No. Of People
Minutes walk to the marina
Star Rating
Silicon Cup Accommodation, Cowes Isle of Wight with 8 bedrooms
Silicon Cup accommodation is in great demand given the success of this spectacular event. Silicon Cup 2018 is even bigger and better than in previous years with many people seeking to holiday in Cowes at the same time.
Property Ref: 148
Set in 6 acres of garden sloping down to our own lake, our two gites which are the old stables are being totally refurbished in 2011/12 and ready for Spring half term 2012. We have a huge 15m by 8m heated pool and loads of garden for playing in. We are in the Charente Maritime, 40 minutes from La Rochelle, 30 minutes from the nearest beach which is good because the Charente Maritime is the second sunniest region in France after the Cote d'Azur. We are surrounded by fields, some sunflowers and some wheat. the gites have their own private gardens and BBQ areas which face South. As we are renovating them at the moment there are only photos however if you have stayed at Windrush or Exmouth House before you will know what our standards are like. They will have fully fitted kitchens, cosy lounges, plenty of dining space both inside and out and modern hi specification bathrooms. We look forward to welcoming you.+ More details


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Many school districts cancel classes Monday due to cold weather
Roundy's to close stores at 8 p.m. Monday
In an unprecedented move, more than 300 schools and businesses closed early in advance of the dangerous cold.
Milwaukee Public School officials said the safety of the more than 78,000 students was paramount in their decision.
"Whether students are walking, waiting for the bus, whether families are driving students to school, those things are critical factors that we look at," MPS spokesman Tony Tagliava said.
MPS made the decision Friday afternoon and many other districts were quick to follow, including:
Arrowhead School District
Brown Deer Public Schools
Cedarburg School District
Cudahy School District
Elkhorn Area School District
Elmbrook School District
Fox Point-Bayside Schools
Germantown School District
Grafton School District
Glendale-River Hills
Greendale School District
Greenfield School District
Kenosha Unified School District
Kettle Moraine District
Menomonee Falls Public Schools
Mequon-Thiensville School District
Muskego-Norway Schools
New Berlin Public Schools
Northern Ozaukee School District
Oak Creek-Franklin Joint District
Oconomowoc Area School District
Pewaukee Public Schools
Racine Unified School District
Raymond School District
Sheboygan School District
Shorewood School District
South Milwaukee Schools
Waukesha Public Schools
Wauwatosa Public Schools
Waupun Public-Private Schools
West Allis-West Milwaukee Schools
Whitefish Bay Public Schools
View our complete list of closings here
Monday's forecast calls for a high temperature below zero, with wind chills between 20 and 40 below zero.
MPS officials were alerting parents via their automated phone system, text alerts and the media.
Only designated essential staff should report to work Monday. The district will decide Monday whether to close school Tuesday.
Milwaukee Public Schools last closed for cold weather in 2009. The forecast high on that date was zero.
VIDEO: More than 200 schools, businesses will be closed on Monday
Roundy's announced it will close all Pick 'n Save, Copps and Metro Market stores at 8 p.m. Monday because of the extreme cold temperatures expected in the area. Stores will reopen at 6 a.m. on Tuesday.
"We felt it would be in the best interest of our customers and team members. This is cold weather, even in Wisconsin. We didn't want to risk the health and safety of anybody, in terms of our customers and our employees too," said Jim Hyland of Roundy's Grocery Stores.
Shoppers at the Metro Market on Van Buren Street told WISN 12 News they are trying to plan ahead for the extreme cold by stocking up now so they don't have to venture out.
"We have no plans for the weekend (but to) stay in and hide through it, really," said Jerry Peterson, of Milwaukee.


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An intimate evening of laughter and disbelief awaits!
Max's Magic Theatre - invites you to a private and intimate experience presented in a residential venue where your brain will be taken on a roller coaster ride. The magic and mentalism performed has more twists than your favorite movie thriller and everything happens in an environment tailored to give you the most personalized performance possible with some of the magic happening only inches away from your face!
Your decisions will control the outcome of the show making you an integral part of the magic, a special prize will be given away and it could be you that wins it. Everyday objects will be manipulated in ways that defy all logic and reason. You will even go home with an incredible piece of magic that you can share with your family, friends, and co workers to commemorate this one of a kind experience you can only find here at Max's Magic Theatre!
Keep the little ones at home as this show will be a little more sophisticated and is best suited for ages 13+.
With seating limited to only 20 guests, tickets regularly sell out!
All shows come with a complimentary bottle of water.
NOTE: Max apologizes in advance if the show causes stomach aches from laughter or your head hurts because you're having your brain scrambled from this experience.


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Independent candidate for Charlottesville City Council, Bob Fenwick, addresses news media following his endorsement by the Piedmont Group of the Sierra Club.
A week later, October 25, the dredging advocate announced that he intends to press the City to follow its own law (Section 28) by holding a referendum before allowing the citizens to give up their existing water assets in favor of a new dam.
Commentator Bill Emory puts up a new photo nearly every day at billemory.com/blog.Read more on: bob fenwick


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Tadahito Iguchi, who has won titles in the U.S. and Japan, says you got to take advantage of a your first scoring chance and get momentum in a playoff game:
"You've got to capitalize on the first opportunity you get in a game, that's the No. 1 priority," Iguchi said before Game 2 of the Japan Series at Nagoya Dome on Sunday.
"And also, you want to try to reduce mistakes as much as you can.
"It's so difficult to have a big lead in this kind of stage. So you can grab momentum by giving your opponent (some) damage first."
speaking of tadahito, remember this?
Good Memories!


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Blizzard upgrades World of Warcraft to version 3.2 today, implementing the Crusaders' Coliseum dungeons, PVP experience, level 20 mounts, Druid form changes, Rogue axe-wielding, and far fewer embarrassing raid looting situations.
3.2 is a huge patch, with changes to nearly every aspect of the game. Raiding guilds have several new places to play, while the more casual player will enjoy the ability to mount up at level 20, which does away with 10 levels of slogging through Hillsbrad or Darkshire, depending on your leveling preference. The addition of PVP experiences should make battleground fans extremely happy, while those who'd rather sit around being a twinked-out level 19 bad ass have the option of turning PVP experience off completely.
One of the most welcome changes is the new rules for bind-on-pickup during dungeons and raids. Any bind-on-pickup item can now be traded to another member of your party or raid ground for up to two hours after it is looted, meaning that "oh damn, my cat stepped on my keyboard and looted that!" is no longer a valid ninja-looting ploy.
Oh, and rogues can now use one-handed axes, which should make hunters hate them even more than they already do.
World of Warcraft is something different to each player, so there is no way I could possibly mention all of the important changes in this post. Check out the link to the public test realm patch notes to get a better idea of what exactly is going on in patch 3.2.
Patch 3.2 PTR Patch Notes [World Of Warcraft]


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(Pocket-lint) - Canon's PowerShot A4000 IS crams an 8x optical zoom and image stabilisation into its small body. But can this budget point-and-shoot compact deliver where it counts?
Point and shoot
The PowerShot A4000 is a fairly no frills compact. It's aimed squarely at those who want the camera to take control. But even those who don't want to think about various settings will find the included "program" setting a more proficient shooting mode.
The reason is simple: the "auto" mode is rather hit and miss when it comes to focusing on subjects. The camera frequently focused behind the main subject, or its face detection persistently found apparent faces in the most mundane of (and obviously devoid of faces) backgrounds.
This is where the program mode - activated by a single click upwards on the d-pad - comes to the rescue. The choice of face detection, centre only and tracking autofocus options provide a degree of useful control. You don't need to be a rocket scientist to use the camera, as it will still deal with all the exposure calculations thereafter.
We found the centre AF option to be the most effective for the majority of tasks. There's even an AF-point zoom that displays the focus point at 100 per cent size on screen to confirm focus is spot on before taking the shot.
The PowerShot A4000 is also proficient when it comes to close-up shooting, as activated by the macro (flower symbol) - also located on the d-pad.
8x zoom
The star of the A4000's features list has to be its 8x optical zoom lens. The "IS" in the camera's title refers to its lens-based image stabilisation technology. When light fades or when zoomed in to the max it's trickier to keep shots as steady as when light sources are good, and it's here that the stabilisation - which counteracts minute hand movements by shifting the lens by microscopic amounts - comes into its own.
The focal range begins at 28mm at the wide-angle and extends through to a 224mm equivalent at its longest and it means wider-than-peripheral-view shots can be captured with ease. But with that zoom, bringing distant things closer is nice and easy too.
Considering the small size of the body it's an impressive range to squeeze into such a camera – and a distinct feature that sets the camera apart from, say, the camera in your mobile phone.
The focus is proficient enough, although shot-to-shot times are on the slow side. So if you want to take one shot quickly after another you'll have to be a little more patient. Three to four seconds may not sound like a long time, but it can be in photographic terms - and that's the length of time you'll need to wait between frames.
Image Quality
The PowerShot A4000's 16-megapixel images are good enough for their purpose - casual snaps - though aren't likely to blow your socks off.
For the target market though it's not going to be a major concern. The shots that come out of the camera are bright, well exposed, full of colour and more than do the job.
However, closer inspection shows chromatic aberrations, corner softness and a lack of detail throughout the ISO range - but none of these issues will cause problems when dealing with images on a small-to-medium scale. Web use, social sharing and even prints will be fine. Think about it: 16-megapixels is around eight times more resolute than a 1080p television, so scale shots down and blemishes will be a little more hidden.
In the Program mode it is possible to select the ISO sensitivity - which controls the camera's sensitivity to light - from between ISO 100-1600. Higher ISO settings are useful in low light, although, again, the PowerShot A4000 struggles to deliver the quality at its top-end setting.
The Canon PowerShot A4000 achieves a number of highs: it's affordable, there's an 8x optical zoom range with image stabilisation and the close-up macro mode are all appealing points.
But the auto mode's autofocus is hit and miss, the camera's image quality is nothing special, it's rather slow to operate, has so-so battery life and, despite its low price, there are other models out there with wider-angle lenses, longer zoom ranges (10x with image stabilisation) and longer-lasting batteries that cost about the same price
So as much as we can see where the Canon A4000 fits into the budget camera range, it's the strength of its peers' features that leave it somewhat lacking.


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Chinook twist-on base
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Joined: 07 Jun 2003
Posts: 412
Posted: Fri Mar 25, 2005 3:08 pm
Post subject: Chinook twist-on base
I just bought this Chinook, 1 bolt twist on style base and have been having some problems with it. When rigging, I make sure the lever is right in the center line, so the base is balanced left to right. Ok, then sometimes when I sail, during a jibe or a crash it tightens up or loosens up and becomes off center. I notice during rigging that I have to leave it slightly looser than Id like to make sure it lines up, or overtighten it to make sure it lines up.
Is this a trivial problem? or is there some trick to making it turn out right?
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Joined: 03 Jan 2004
Posts: 108
Posted: Sat Mar 26, 2005 3:49 am
Post subject: RE: Chinook twist-on base
Im having the same problem it never seems to line up right where its centered, its either to tight or to loose trying to get it centered, I switched over to the 2 bolt plate as it easier for me to disconnect and change sails, only problem is you have to use the bottom socket to adjust the plate and lose and inch of adjustment on both ends aka mast adjustment.....
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Joined: 14 Sep 2000
Posts: 627
Posted: Sat Mar 26, 2005 11:31 pm
Post subject: RE: Chinook twist-on base
Unfortunately, there is no magic bullet. I recommend going tighter rather than looser. It will just compress the upper inside wall of your mast track against the baseplate, no big deal.
The tendon and mechanical 1-bolt bases are centered, but to keep the rubber joints reliable, we had to separate the fasteners (i.e. a different bolt for your mast track than the one molded into the rubber joint itself.)
We fooled around with some things like molded-in spinning studs, and concentric spinning fasteners, but none of them were deemed tough enough. Some of you may remember our difficulties with the rubber joints about 4 years ago. We vowed after that to never compromise the reliability of such a critical part, so the off-center design remained.
My rec: get a tendon base, they are more durable, easier to rebuild, and have better power transfer than rubber joints. You may notice its a bit harsher over chop, but all in all a small sacrifice for all the benefits. Good luck, fair winds - Alex
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Joined: 25 Feb 1997
Posts: 2658
Location: SF bay area
Posted: Sun Mar 27, 2005 11:59 am
Post subject: RE: Chinook twist-on base
It would seem the Hydroshock would be the best of both. Shock absorbing like the rubber hourglass and a reliable mechanical joint. I dont see them at the shops anymore. I now use the rubber hourglass 2 bolt and change them out once a year.
When I was using the single offset bolt model, I found that if the base was offset when tight, just take the base back out of the mast track again and re-insert the bolt 180 degrees and tighten again. Usually it would line up almost perfect. Even when it wasnt perfect, I couldnt tell the difference while sailing though.
DONT SAIL WITH IT LOOSE!! If it comes out of the track on a windy day, your board will take off fast and go to the other side of the lake or bay without you on it. Its hard to catch it, some have lost boards this way.
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Joined: 02 Apr 2000
Posts: 485
Posted: Sun Mar 27, 2005 6:46 pm
Post subject: RE: Chinook twist-on base
Correct, youll never notice if the thing is off center while sailing. You will notice if it falls out because you left it too loose or strips out because you overtightened it while trying to get it centered. Just snug it up and go sailing.
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Joined: 07 Jun 2003
Posts: 412
Posted: Sun Apr 03, 2005 1:42 am
Post subject: RE: Chinook twist-on base
Since my last post Ive done some experimenting while rigging. What I came up with is to align the chinook-bolt with the lever on the base when inserting it into the track. Slide it in, tighten it up and it has been perfectly aligned! May be different for different boards but you could probably do your own experiment and find something that works.
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Joined: 10 May 1998
Posts: 234
Posted: Mon Apr 04, 2005 6:44 pm
Post subject: RE: Chinook twist-on base
I used to sail these, but found even when tightening significantly there were times when this would come loose while sailing the SF bay. That is a major problem, so finally switched to the two bolt/tendon type... no problems since.
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37 W 26th St
New York, NY 10010
Founded in 1993 by instructor, performer and DJ; Jimmy Anton's social holds a special place in the scene as New York's longest running salsa party. Jimmy's is a classic On2 social that caters exclusively to salseros/salsera(s). It has consistently delivered a quality dance experience over the years and draws a crowd of experienced social dancers as a result. The event is located at Stepping Out Studios in the heart of the Chelsea district. The venue is spacious and open with excellent ventilation. There is no bar here but they do serve Gatorade and water. You'll see everyone here from the entire New York Salsa crowd to all the out of towers from Philly, DC, Boston who travel all the way to to NYC to get their salsa fix. There are dancers of all levels and the playlist is 80% salsa with some bachata and cha cha cha.


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To begin this article, here is a little quiz (in good Jeopardy! fashion, the answer comes first):
Answer: 112%, 107%, 86%, and 79%.
Question: What are the spot returns for cotton, silver, coffee, and corn from December 2009 to May 2011?
The fact is that commodities have been on a tear for some time (the source of those return numbers, btw, is S&P GSCI spot returns.) Crude oil, for example, is up 47% over that same 18 month period while gold, everybody's favorite commodity, has jumped 30%. Even a diversified basket of goods like the one represented by the Dow Jones-UBS Commodity Index is up 22% for the stretch.
These are outsized numbers, to be sure, but that doesn't mean advisors shouldn't still be considering commodities for their clients' long-term investment portfolios. We think they should, and here are a few reasons why:
Reason No. 1: Commodities Are an Inflation Hedge Over the years, we've all come to appreciate commodities for their inflation hedging properties. And rightfully, so according to the statistical relationship between the DJ UBS Commodity Index versus and the Consumer Price Index (CPI) as shown in Chart 1 below.
The graph, which goes to back to the Index's inception in January 1991, clearly shows that having exposure to a broad basket of commodities has consistently provided investors a good degree of purchasing power protection. The relatively high R-squared value (.82) indicates that the returns to commodities are, in fact, partially explained by inflation over long-term time periods. There's no reason to believe that will change.
Reason No. 2: Commodities Are a Diversifier Just as important, commodities provide an important diversification benefit over time when paired with a portfolio of stocks and bonds. Chart 2 below shows the R-squared numbers of a blended portfolio of 60% S&P 500 Index / 40% Barclays Aggregate Index versus the DJ UBS Commodity Index over several time frames from the Index's inception.
Clearly, exposure to commodities over the long term would have diversified a simplified portfolio of stocks and bonds.
The increasing correlation in the short term, of course, should remind us that an allocation to commodities is made for their long-term diversification benefits. While it's reasonable to think the increase in the R-squared measure is a reflection of increased attention and asset flow from investors, it's just as reasonable to think that condition could persist going forward.
Reason No. 3: Commodities Have Multiple Drivers of Return
The total return for a diversified basket of commodities is comprised of at least three things: each underlying commodity's spot return, each underlying commodity's roll yield return, and the interest earned on the underlying collateral. A look at the S&P GSCI Index, as seen in the table below, which goes back to January 2, 1970, indicates what has driven the total return of the Index over each decade from its inception.
Percentage Contribution of Total Return of S&P GSCI Index
Spot Return
Roll Yield
Interest Rate on Collateral
Source: RS Investments
What's immediately apparent is that there is no trend or trends across the decades. Each of the contributors has their moment. There is, however, something among recent behaviors that's worth noting: the declining contribution of roll yield to the total return.
Positive roll yield is defined to be the return a futures investor captures by rolling a short-term contract into a longer-term contract and profiting from the convergence toward a higher spot price. Profits, in other words, come from rolling yield in a backwardated futures market—when the futures price is below the spot price. We're in a so-called contango market, however, which is the opposite of backwardation. More commodity futures are trading above the expected spot price. Directionally, that means traders are anticipating rising prices.
Reason No. 4: Commodity Investment Options Are Easily Available
They're still not abundant, but the number of mutual fund options available to advisors seeking exposure to commodity or commodity-related investments is on the rise. By our count, the universe of open-end mutual fund options with at least 10 years of performance history stands at 16, with another 53 that have a more limited trading history (see Chart 3 for additional details). As more investors seek to diversify their portfolios, we've no doubt that mutual fund companies will be launching new and differentiating fund options.
There are two primary differentiating factors among the commodity investment options available today—active versus passive and direct versus indirect. The PIMCO Commodity Real Return fund (PCRIX), for example, is passively managed to the DJ UBS Index, with the collateral being managed by Mirih Wohar, the lead manager on PIMCO's suite of Real Return funds. RS Global Natural Resources (RSRNX), on the other hand, takes a private equity approach to buying commodity producers and owning well-managed companies that can earn above their cost of capital. Both approaches work, and both funds are worth consideration in our view.
The Conclusion on Commodities
The bottom line is that all the chatter around the commodity market these days is not at all surprising. We've just witnessed an extraordinary run-up in prices. But beyond the entry point, we're here to suggest that, noise aside, not much has changed with regard to the long-term return potential and the diversification benefits of the asset class.
Author's disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed are provided for general information only and do not constitute specific investment advice or recommendations from the author.


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Greenville Drive Baseball
Enjoy the baseball season and catch a Greenville Drive game! Come see your favorite minor league team take on various opponents throughout the season on its quest for a championship. Link to the website for the complete schedule of games through September.
The dates for this event have already occurred, please check back again for new dates.
- Presented By: The Greenville Drive
- Dates: April 23, 2018 - April 29, 2018
- Recurrence: Recurring daily
- Location: Fluor Field at the West End
- Address: 945 S. Main Street, Suite 202, Greenville, SC 29601
- Phone: 864-240-4500
- Time: 7 pm (4 pm on Sunday)
- Price: $7-$10


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Kiribati, Nauru, Niue… there is something exotic about the names of the Pacific Islands countries. Vanuatu, Tuvalu, Palau.the names are not familiar but each holds untold beauty and mystery.
You have to work hard to visit many of the specks of land in the Pacific Ocean. The islands are not close to many places, they are expensive to fly to and once you are there you may have to pay out the nose for accommodations (especially in French Polynesia). But as a wise person once said, good things come to those who work hard. If you make the effort, your reward is paradise.
Paradise in this region means beautiful white beaches, stunning blue water, a relaxed way of life, and some of the friendliest people on this planet. It also means sitting around a fire drinking kava, being disgusted as you are served Spam, seeing a high level of poverty, and feeling the vise of tourist traps. It is not a perfect region, but the good outweighs the bad and by the time you have left you will forever sing the praises of those exotic names Wallis and Futuna, Tokelau
Assuming you don't have an outrigger canoe and a bunch of mates to help you paddle, you'll want to fly to the Pacific Islands. Some airlines offer packages where you can stop off at different countries as long as you continue to fly in one general direction. This is particularly helpful for those returning to the U.S. from Australia or New Zealand. You should also check out the Airfare to the Pacific Islands.
Accommodations on the various islands range from the modest to the outrageous. You should check out the Pacific Islands hostels if you are on a budget, or the Pacific Island hotels if saving money is less of an issue.


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Regional Coastal Monitoring Programmes
You must be logged in to use the dashboard.
If you are already registered with CCO, use your normal email/password to login; alternatively you can register now to use the system (opens new window).
« Return to map for other wave, tide and met stations.
Note that these are real-time data and are not quality-controlled. Long-range graphs are plotted from a randomised subsample of half-hourly data.
These data files have undergone full quality control. Poor data is flagged, not removed. Details of the flag and other quality control procedures can be found here
If you require full metadata, please download data files via the website's Map Viewer and Data Catalogue
In subsequent use of the data, please use the following:Copyright: Teignbridge DC
Acknowledgement: Southwest Regional Coastal Monitoring Programme


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Whether he's igniting stampedes of screaming girls or being stalked by the paparazzi while out with Selena Gomez, Justin Bieber said it's not so easy to take it all in.
In a cover article for Vanity Fair's February issue, the teen sensation admits his chaotic rock star life occasionally gives him insomnia.
"I just turn over all night and think. My mind races," the 16-year-old "Baby" singer told Vanity Fair. "I think about all the things I didn't have to think about during the day--like family and God and things that should be more important but you don't have time to think about, because you just get caught up [in everything else] during the day."
The Vanity Fair cover will most likely help the Canadian superstar reach an audience wider than readers of Tiger Beat and Teen Vogue, the magazines that his face is usually platered on. While he said he greatly appreciates his female fans, he hopes to have more male fans one day when he's older.
"For younger guys, it's like [they think] they're not cool if they come to my concert. That'll [change], I think it'll happen, maybe when I'm 18. But meanwhile all their girlfriends are coming to watch me."
Bieber knows the ladies scream for him because he's famous. But the golden-haired tween crush said he thinks he'd get the attention, pop star or not.
"Not trying to be arrogant, but if I walked down the street and a girl saw me, she might take a look back because maybe I'm good-looking, right?," Bieber said.
If a statement like that is a beginning warning sign for an egomaniac, Bieber's mother promised that she's not going to let that happen.
"We don't have yes-men around him," said mom Pattie Mallette. "I don't want him being a diva."
U.S. & World
Selected Reading: Vanity Fair, PopEater, Hollywood Life


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Moving along in Saint Augustines massive City of God, I think he's pretty much laid to rest the charge that the adoption of Christianity by the emperor and the citizenry of Rome was responsible for its sack by Alaric and its other troubles. He gives a thorough review of the calamities that befell the Republic and the Empire long before Christ walked the earth and asks sarcastically, why didn't your gods protect you? Obviously, it was not the fault of Christianity, since it hadn't appeared yet. Morever, excellent rhetorician that he is, he points out that if Christians had been around during the bloodshed of the Gracchi, the various Punic Wars, the civil wars, and so on, the pagans would have immediately argued that it was the presence of Christians that was bringing down the wrath of the gods on Rome. So since there were no Christians, shouldn't they blame their own gods?
It's entertaining to see the lengths to which Augustine will go to make his points, but we have to recall he was writing for an educated audience that was very interested in these 'spiritual' questions, and not above enjoying some sophisticated repartee at the same time. So, he dwells with glee upon the burning of one temple and the incineration of its sacred idol that claimed the life of a high priest who tried to save it. What! Your all-powerful gods not only could not save themselves from a mere fire, but couldn't even lift a finger to save the priest who tries to save them? What sort of gods are these, he asks? I'm waiting for the clearcut demonstrations of the beneficent power of the Christian god that comes later on.
1200 years later on, I'm halfway through Don Quixote, the novel, or is it a chronicle?, or maybe just a daydream of a bookworm on drugs, and an argument is underway. The Don, his squire Sancho, and a few local people with some learning are discussing the first part of The Adventures of Don Quixote which was just published. Everyone's talking about it! The second part is coming soon. [I am reading the second part.] The characters compare themselves to their depiction in the novel, pointing out inaccuracies and complaining a bit of how they are shown. The author of the second part will, it is hoped, be better than that of the first. After all, it is known that there is another version of the story circulating that is a downright fraud, a blatant ripoff of the idea, written and published by some hacks. For his part, Sancho is peeved that the story is a little too accurate for comfort regarding his humiliation at the inn, when he was hurled into the air on a trampoline-blanket by some tricksters. Some verbal trickery from the Don assures him that he wasn't really there, even if his body was.


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NJweedman - One Bud [Unsigned Hype]
"This music video featuringTay Nati (of Cincinati) was created by Hollywood Director HAK - www.hakimkhalfani.com , for The New Jersey Weedman. (www.njweedman.com). NJweedman ownes a "marijuana store" on Hollywood blvd., in Hollywood Ca., and invites artists to come thru and spit on camera and puff a BUD. Check out the WEEDMOBIL on Twitter." - E
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As has been discussed before there are differences between the old and new testament.
What I wish to know is this: How accurate is the word of God written in the old testament? How much of it is/was culture and how much of it God?
I ask this because of a few things:
- Much of it spans generations, some of which was then rewritten by others and passed on by word of mouth.
- Jews are only allowed to eat foods under specific dietary restrictions. Most meats not allowed are already some of the most 'dangerous' to consume. As such while this may have been a said by God for safety, was it an actual command to only consume these things (or rather, is it a command to protect our health, or our spirit)? (interesting article on dietary restrictions)
- The old Testament follows much of the history of Israel, so at what point is it truly God's word versus man's?
- Did God talk to people directly, or as he does now, through an understanding of what must be done? I ask as if he did no talk directly to not only people in the bible, but those who wrote it, much of what was said could have the beliefs of those who he commanded intertwined in them, due to the free will God himself bestowed upon us.
- In cases the bible follows the life of a single person, whose history we do not know how the writer obtained, even if he had God's blessing to write it.
Now, I'll admit the New Testament also has some similar problems. Jesus did not have a personal scribe who followed him around, and many books were not included in the bible, as while they followed what Jesus commanded, they were considered to polluted by the beliefs of those who wrote them. Yet I ask about the Old testament as it is much older, written over vast periods of time, and in cases the teachings can be quite different than those expressed in the new testament.
God chooses who does his biding and knows all. But as seen in much of the bible, it was written such that even a simple man could grasp the words. Depending on the writer, the examples given could vary. Similarly I could know God wishes me to do something, but ultimately how I go about doing it is left to how I feel it should.
On a side note, does
old / new Testament get capitalized? Also I tried to remain somewhat objective and not to repetitive, but sorry for any failing of mine on either account.


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Google Trends is an interesting online tool. The program tracks the number of searches for any given search term compared to all of the searches on Google over time. The results is a graph showing the trend of the searches. For example, here is a copy of a graph showing the trend for a search on the term "RootsTech:
You can clearly see spikes in searching that occurred just before and during the various conferences. In the case of the 2013 Conference, you can see a residual number of searches following the Conference. Since you can plot any search term, you can also plot the name of a website or a topic. Here is an interesting result from a search on the word "genealogy."
It seems to me that this indicates that there has been a constant increase in the overall number of searches but that the number of specific searches with the term "genealogy" have either declined or remained the same and therefore the percentage of the overall total has declined. If I add search terms to this same graph, I get the following:
I searched for the terms genealogy, family history, ancestors and pedigree. Some of the search trends, such as those for ancestors and pedigree, involve terms that are used in a variety of contexts. But all four terms have merged in the last year into the background of searches. What happens with the large genealogy companies? Here is a search on the terms Ancestry.com, FamilySearch.org, MyHeritage.com and findmypast.com:
It looks like 2010 was the watershed year for interest in all four companies. The bag graph on the left shows the average searches over the time period with the highest number of any of the four being 100.
Do all searches show the same sort of decline considering the increase in Internet traffic? How about a hot topic right now such as health insurance?
Hard to tell. But how about comparing genealogy to health insurance?
Now you can start to see what is actually happening. Let's add some other popular terms such as football and movies:
My oh my, that certainly puts health care and genealogy in their place as concerns of the online searchers of the world.
How about a comparison between genealogy and other hobby interests in the world? What do you think? Here is a search on genealogy, gardening, reading, sports and vacations:
Not much competition there. You might try playing around with a series of searches and draw your own conclusions, but I see little support in concluding that genealogy is growing rapidly in popularity or even increasing at all. I am very interested in a proposed presentation at RootsTech 2014 from Arnon Hershkovitz on Wednesday at 4:30 with a presentation entitled, "Empirical Evidence of the Popularity of Family History Using Digital Traces." Arnon is a researcher at Tel Aviv University's School of Education and a professional genealogist. He is also a blogger with a blog called Msfhtovlogy. I will be interested to see what his conclusions are.