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I can't believe Avery is already three months old. It feels like it was just yesterday that Dustin and I nervously brought her home from the hospital as a tiny frail creature. Now she is an energetic human being that is ready to absorb whatever we toss her way. As expected, everything is new and exciting. She was not quite sure what to make of our Charlie Brown Christmas tree. I'm sure that will change quickly when she realizes all the wonderful gifts she will get in years to come. This picture was taken after we opened all the gifts and cleaned up. Please do not send us money for gifts.
Thankfully (pun intended) we did not have to travel outside of Chicago to celebrate Thanksgiving with family this year. This was the first time that we ventured outside of our little apartment bubble since we brought Avery home. We learned a lot from this day. For one, never try to skip a nap and make up for it later. We spent the first half of the night in the coat room trying to calm Avery down. Once she slept for a little bit, she was a happy camper again. On the car ride home, we learned to never push her feeding time when we had to stop in a dark Baskin Robins parking lot to feed her.
The same Thanksgiving weekend, Avery was baptized. Dustin and I both had a tough time keeping ourselves composed. We look forward to watching her grow up and this seemed like the first big step. She was very patient throughout the ceremony, but wasn't particularly happy with having cold water poured on her head. Her baptism gown was passed down from Dustin's side of the family and was over 125 years old, which made it seem even more special.
The cold weather has given me another reason to dress Avery in cute little warm outfits, most of them resembling some cuddly animal. I can't imagine many things being cuter than a pink polar bear.
Avery has grown so quickly in the last couple of months. She looks like a toddler compared to the little scrunched up newborn we brought home. Dustin and I really had no idea what we were in for until the first week in the hospital. It was quite an eye opener to only sleep an hour or two a day. Things started gradually getting easier after then. Around week 2, breast feeding became second nature and with each new week we started to figure out what made Avery tick.
She is such a happy, energetic girl. She still has her witching hour at the end of the day, but it is becoming less and less frequent. Maybe it has something to due with her getting used to us too.
Avery was only five days old in the picture on the left. I almost forgot how tiny she was. She seemed so scared of everything the first few weeks and even diaper changes seemed stressful. At one point, we were warming her wipes in the microwave to make it a less startling process for her. Now she loves cooing and smiling as we change her diapers…such a significant change.
If Avery could walk before learning to crawl, she would. She always has a smile on her face when she is in her jumper or when we help her stand. If the last few months foreshadow her personality, she is going to be quite an ambitious child and very vocal of her likes and dislikes. We look forward to getting to know Avery a little more every day and saying we love her to pieces is an understatement. Almost every day we talk about how lucky we are and can't believe we get to keep her all to ourselves.
§ 4 Responses to Avery 3 Month Update"
I love the chair pictures! You can really tell how she has grown. She's going to outgrow that little green chair soon! Isn't it amazing that even though she isn't talking you can tell how she's feeling with those smiles?
Avery is so cute. Her eyes captivate you. Avery's smiles are precious. She's a happy baby.


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Master of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Education
Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education - Supervision and Leadership The mission of the Early Childhood Education Program is to prepare caring, competent, and inspired teachers and administrators who will work with a diverse population of children ages 2 through 8 years old and their families in a variety of early childhood settings.
Our graduates become agents of positive social change. The program also prepares students for leadership roles in Early Childhood Education (ECE) college teaching, public policy, and parent education programs and other administrative positions. Our students are supported in becoming leaders who affirm and promote the essential goodness, dignity and freedom of all people. The program provides a strong theoretical and practical foundation.
Contact: Luz Casquejo Johnston
Phone: (925) 631-4089
E-mail: email@example.com

subset: commoncrawl


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Simple Machines Blogs > SMF Team Blog
Simple Machines, our team, and our recruitment process
(1/9) > >>
From time to time we get inquiries from certain people expressing interest in helping out with the project, and possibly joining the team. I figured I would share with you how we select team members and what you can do to help out.
One important thing to realize is that we are always looking for more people. Simple Machines has grown rapidly in the last few years and our team has expanded along with the project. With some recent departures, we are also looking to fill the void with some new blood.
Here are some of the things we look for in potential members (there is no particular order to this list):
[*]Posts often and regularly. We need people who are active and able to contribute regularly.
[*]Posts accurate information. Not knowing the answer is fine, however posting a bad solution is worse than no solution.
[*]Posts information in an easy to understand manner. As the project has expanded, we are getting more users who don't have a vast experience with computers. We need people who can help them out as well as the super geeks like me.
[*]Is respectful to the other users, especially when confronted with an opposing view.
[*]Ability to work as a part of a team.
[*]Has been contributing for a while. We often get people who surge onto the scene but quickly fizzle out. We are looking for people who will still be active a year or more from now.
How to get onto the team
While there are some opposing views, the generally consensus of the team is that you should not ask to join the team. Joining the team is not a goal in of itself. The best way to get on the team is to not try to get on the team, and instead use that energy to help the project as a whole.
Do what you enjoy doing. If you aspire to be a mod developer, go read the Mod Requests board and develop some mods. If you think the design team is the place for you then go create some kick-butt themes and submit them to the theme site. At the same time, try to help those who are learning. A great theme designer is wonderful, but one that can assist people in creating their own themes is even better.
Do note: We'll often wait months before inviting someone to join the team. This allows us to see how regular they are and to make sure they aren't "faking it". If you do get asked to join the team, there is a good chance it'll be as a Support Specialist. A good portion of our team starts there as that team has the most amount of work to do (plus, most users come to our notice because they are assisting the community and providing answers and support already). Starting in the support team allows us to see how well you perform in the team environment, but does not "lock you in", by any means. Movement between teams is a regular occurrence, as people who have joined find that their talent (or the rest of the team notices talent) lies in a specific area or focus.
The process of getting someone onto the team
The process itself is simple. A team member will notice that a particular member has been really helpful and shows the above traits. That team member will post a recommendation to the team board, where the potential team member is discussed, their previous postings looked at, and mods or themes looked at, etc. We try to make sure there are no reasons why the user shouldn't join the team. If the team is in agreement, the team leader for a particular team will contact the person and invite them to join that team. If the person accepts, the team leader then lets the administrators know and they then changes the new invitee's group(s) which adds him (or her) into the team.
Also, note that the teams listed on the team page should not be viewed as a constraint mechanism. We are always looking for people with unique skills and knowledge, even if it doesn't fit into one of the teams. So if you have a strength that you think would be beneficial to the project, please share it with the other users.
[note: this is a re-post of an older thread. It includes some grammatical and textual corrections and some updates on details]
Very cool. I never knew about how the process worked.
Thanx for this ;)
--- Quote from: Kindred on February 22, 2010, 04:06:02 PM ---[*]Ability to work as a part of a team.
--- End quote ---
Why did you let me on the team then? ;D
--- Quote ---[*]Has been contributing for a while. We often get people who surge onto the scene but quickly fizzle out. We are looking for people who will still be active a year or more from now.
--- End quote ---
That's part of why I failed.
Still, good to see that some clarifications are coming through. Make sure you're taking on people for the right reasons though.
--- Quote from: Arantor on February 22, 2010, 05:10:27 PM ---Still, good to see that some clarifications are coming through. Make sure you're taking on people for the right reasons though.
--- End quote ---
--- Quote from: Kindred on February 22, 2010, 04:06:02 PM ---[note: this is a re-post of an older thread.
--- End quote ---
Yes, this was clarified by PM because it didn't seem quite the same.
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Many people love a beach sunrise, sand between their toes and a refreshing ocean breeze. It's a beautiful thing, for sure, but have you experienced Virginia's beaches from the air? Imagine what that looks and feels like. Better yet, find out!
Parasailing is an activity whereby a person is harnessed to a boat and the boat accelerates to allow the sail to open and the person to be lifted in the air.
Q: Why parasail?
A1: Dolphins. They're plentiful and playful, and you've never seen them like this before.
A2: You don't have to get wet if you don't want to.
A3: You can try it with a friend if you're a little nervous.
A4: You don't need any experience.
The view and the ride are exhilarating and it's doubtful that you'll be sorry you did it. Consider it a #BucketList item and give it a whirl, just so you can say that you did!
Adventure Parasail can fly you and a friend or two, if you want, as high as 1,200 feet over the Atlantic Ocean and Virginia Beach oceanfront. The captains at Adventure are United State Coast Guard certified and they have a perfect safety record. Reservations
Hang Gliding
Hang gliding can be performed several ways. Sometimes one jumps from a cliff while harnessed to a non-motorized aircraft (the hang glider). Another way to hang glide is to be harnessed in to the glider and then be towed by a small specialty aircraft. This is known as aerotowing.
Q: Why hang glide?
A1: The Eastern Shore of Virginia is a pretty magical place. It's an important stopover on the Atlantic Flyway, so birds are incredibly abundant.
A2: You'll fly with a partner, so no need to be nervous. It's called tandem flight.
A3: You don't need any experience.
The diversity of the Eastern Shore is incredible – open fields, wooded areas, the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. At heights of 2,500 feet to a mile, it's an experience and views like you've never had before. Each flight is 12 to 15 minutes long and ages four and older are eligible for flight. Contact the Eastern Shore Hang Gliding Center in Weirwood to get gliding. Call 914-772-6242 to further inquire or make a reservation.
Plan your adventure in the air this summer! Comment below to suggest other awesome Virginia adventures.
LOVE is at the heart of every Virginia vacation.
Request a free Travel Guide or sign up for our e-newsletter.


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I'm an Australian citizen and visited Armenia by the land border with Georgia in August or September 2010.
At that time I just paid a few dollars, at the somewhat chaotic border crossing and got a full-page visa in my passport.
But when I look at the Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs page on visas they seem to mostly focus on the new e-visas, which I don't believe existed at the time of my previous visit.
So can I still arrive at the border without an e-visa and if so will it affect the length of time I can stay or the amount of the fee I must pay?


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Britain's Sixteen-Year-Olds
Preliminary findings from the third follow up of the National Child Development Study (1958 Cohort)
Edited by Ken FogelmanThis ebook is based on information from the National Child Development Study, and explores what Britain's sixteen-year-olds were like in the 1970s. Learn More1976, Ebook, PDF, 82pp, £6.00ISBN: 9781905818686
Development Guide
Handbook 0-5 years - Experimental version
National Children's BureauThis best-selling guide offered a means of keeping a basic, continuous record of a child's physical, social, emotional and intellectual development. Learn More1977, Ebook, PDF, 38pp, £6.00ISBN: 9781905818723
Who Cares?
Young people in care speak out
Edited by Raissa Page and G.A. ClarkWritten by a group of young people in care, this publication provided a platform from which they could speak freely about their hopes, aspirations, contentions, criticisms and fears. Learn More1977, Ebook, PDF, 63pp, £6.00ISBN: 9781905818679
Preparation for Parenthood
Some current initiatives and thinking
Edited by Gillian PughThis book looks at developments in work carried out in schools, in antenatal preparation and in support for families with young children. Learn More1980, Ebook, PDF, 86pp, £6.00ISBN: 9781905818648
Children in Adversity
The National Children's Bureau reports on Britain's disadvantaged 11-16 year olds
Peter Wedge and Juliet EssenIn 1973, Born to Fail? studied the life-chances of a sample of children born in one week in March 1958. lt exposed the alarming deprivations of a group of 11-year-olds suffering substantial social disadvantage. Learn More1982, Ebook, PDF, 100pp, £6.00ISBN: 9781905818693
A Job for Life
Education and Support for Parents
Gillian Pugh, Joan Kidd, Kate ThorkingtonBringing up children is a 'job for life' and this discussion paper looks at education and support for parents as a continuous process which starts at birth and goes on through childhood, adolescence, committed relationships, pregnancy and parenthood itself. Learn More1982, Ebook, PDF, 12pp, £6.00ISBN: 9781905818983
A National Study
Elsa FerriBased on the findings of the National Child Development Study, a long-term research project conducted by the National Children's Bureau into the development of all children, this publication offered the first full picture of the complexities of the step-relationship. Learn More1984, Ebook, PDF, 207pp, £6.00ISBN: 9781905818747
The Needs of Children
A personal perspective
Mia Kellmer PringleFirst published in 1974, this publication highlighted the virtual revolution in children's physical development after the second world war - changes that are increasingly relevant today. Learn More1986, Ebook, PDF, 192pp, £6.00ISBN: 9781905818662
Who Says?
Choice and control in care
Ruth GardnerThis ebook is for all who are concerned about the quality of care and its improvement. Learn More1987, Ebook, PDF, 106pp, £6.00ISBN: 9781907969058
Working with Schizophrenia
A Needs Based Approach
Gwen HoweBased on a tried and tested needs-based approach it begins by looking at the present 'state of play' in society's approach to schizophrenia, and the experiences of both sufferers and their families. It goes on to identify the needs raised by such experiences and considers ways of meeting them, before detailing methods of intervention. Learn More1987, 200pp


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The International Film Festival Rotterdam welcomes applications for the 15th IFFR Trainee Project for Young Film Critics taking place during its 42nd edition (January 23 – February 3, 2013).
Deadline for applications: November 2, 2012.
Information / applications: IFFR Press Office, email@example.com.
The International Film Festival Rotterdam supports film making, film producing and journalistic talent on several levels: the main festival section 'Bright Future' (including competitions for feature length and short films) presents recent works by first and second time filmmakers; Rotterdam's Hubert Bals Fund contributes to film projects in developing countries and CineMart organizes a trainee project for young film producers (Rotterdam Lab) in close collaboration with its partner organizations. Recognizing the important role of film criticism to the perception of independent cinema, the Rotterdam film festival organizes a trainee project for young film critics.
Project description
The IFFR Trainee Project for Young Film Critics is a talent development program that offers up to six young (under 30 years), motivated and talented professional film critics from outside The Netherlands a chance to travel abroad for covering a major international film festival, to get acquainted with the Rotterdam film festival in particular and the broad range of independent cinema it offers.
The project was created in 1998 motivated by the fact that young and upcoming film critics get less opportunities to explore and sharpen their knowledge and views on independent and experimental cinema – and the festivals, like the International Film Festival Rotterdam, that present it.
Trainee program
The program of the Trainee Project includes taking part in the Rotterdam FIPRESCI Jury meetings; exploring an assigned part of the festival; publishing a blog on the IFFR website and writing up to three contributions for the festival's newspaper Daily Tiger; taking part in expert meetings; reporting about the festival for own affiliation(s).
The past editions the Rotterdam film festival welcomed trainee film critics from:
Argentina, Australia, Austria, Benin, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, China, Croatia, Denmark, France, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Italy, Lithuania, Norway, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Romania, Russia, Slovak Republic, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Turkey, UK and USA.
What to expect:
– Complimentary IFFR 2013 press accreditation
– Budget hotel accommodation in Rotterdam from January 24 – February 2, 2013
– Part of travel costs according to country of origin
– The IFFR wants its trainee film critics to really participate in the festival. The trainees will form a team, hosted by the IFFR Press Office and supported by the Daily Tiger Editorial Staff. Each trainee will take part in the trainee program. There will however be time to explore all aspects of the International Film Festival Rotterdam – screenings, exhibitions, Q&A sessions, debates.
Criteria for application:
– Age under 30 years
– Fluent command of the English language (written and spoken)
– Demonstrable experience in film criticism (printed media, radio/television, online)
– Not yet established enough to profit from facilities as attending international film festivals outside your country
– Have agreement(s) with printed and/or online media to publish a report or reports on the International Film Festival Rotterdam 2013
Your application will only be taken in consideration if you match all the above criteria.
How to apply
Your application should include all of the following documents and information:
– A motivation letter to support your application: explain why this project and the Rotterdam festival appeals to you.
– Your resume (CV) including your contact details and date of birth.
– Up to three proofs of recent work you published on (independent) film or film festivals. If not in English, provide English translations to demonstrate your command of this language. If you work for a print medium, send in a complete copy.
– Information about your affiliation(s): title, name of chief editor, postal address, phone number, email account, periodicity, circulation, web address, estimated unique page views per month.
– A recommendation letter (on company letterhead) of your principal affiliation's chief editor assigning you to cover IFFR 2013 and confirming that your IFFR 2013 report will be published.
You may send in your application:
– by mail to email@example.com
– or by land mail to IFFR Press Office, PO Box 21696, 3001 AR Rotterdam, The Netherlands
Deadline for applications: November 2, 2012.
Applications received after this date risk not to be proceeded.
Notification before December 2, 2012.
Please note: if you are selected and participate in the IFFR Trainee Project for Young Film Critics, you agree that your work produced as part of the project may be published by IFFR in print or online in the festival's publications and on the FIPRESCI website.


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Jury order probation in child death case
By Michelle Casady, Guillermo Contreras
SAN ANTONIO — It took jurors just three hours Friday to find Norberto Velasquez guilty for his role in the 2009 death of his 3-year-old adopted daughter, and six more hours to decide that he should receive probation.
The serious bodily injury to a child by omission conviction could have resulted in a sentence of up to life in prison.
Velasquez, 49, was not in court as the punishment verdict was read by state District Judge Angus McGinty late Friday.
In the hours between the guilty verdict and the probation announcement, McGinty had ordered Velasquez taken into custody without bond. But paramedics transferred him from his courthouse holding cell to a downtown hospital — where he remained under guard — after he claimed to be having a medical emergency.
Jurors were not told of the unusual situation.
Velasquez and partner Matthew Oscar Aranda, 48, took Melody in as a foster child after she was removed from her birth parents' home at 3 months old following allegations of abuse. The couple adopted her in December 2008, but the joy was short-lived.
On Jan. 10, 2009, the girl died of blunt head trauma. Velasquez and Aranda told police she had fallen down the stairs, which caused the fatal brain bleeding. Aranda, who was charged with murder, is still awaiting trial.
Pathologist William Robert Anderson, an expert for the defense, told jurors last week that he believed prior injuries caused by Melody's biological father when she was an infant could have weakened the blood vessels in her brain. As a result, a fall that would be considered minor for other children could have seriously injured her, he testified.
"We have a situation where prior trauma created a situation where this child was more prone to suffer a bleed from a lesser impact," he said.
"That's significant, because if you haven't warned the parents that there's an old subdural hematoma, then any type of injury could be much more serious than it appears," Anderson continued. "It would be like not telling a foster parent a child has hemophilia."
Prosecutors Jan Ischy and Daryl Harris argued that regardless of her pre-existing medical conditions, there was no excuse for Velasquez to wait about 30 hours before calling 911.
"He decided not to seek medical attention for his baby until his baby stopped breathing," Ischy told jurors during closing arguments. "That is seriously, by omission, causing injury, and in this case, death."
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What you need to know before you go
Dortmund is a hi-tech hub with a rich past, packed with captivating museums, tempting restaurants, and a lively nightlife. It's probably most famous for beer and soccer, and you can visit many quality breweries as well as the Westfalen Stadium – home to Borussia Dortmand, the city's Bundesliga team – and the German Soccer Museum.
For shopaholics, the main draw will be Westenhellweg, one of Germany's best shopping streets, while culture vultures will want to visit the art-filled Museum Ostwall, which resides with the iconic Dortmund U-Tower. Offering a natural oasis, Westfalen Park boasts sprawling lush lawns, a rosarium with 1000s of fragrant species, and the pointy Florian Tower, which features an observation platform.
Trending now in DortmundFeatured stories & fun stuff
10 Best Things to Do in Dortmund
Dortmund is mostly famous for its soccer team, beer culture, and rich industrial heritage. Entirely rebuilt after WWII, Dortmund has become an innovative city oriented to the future. Described as a 'green metropolis' and voted one of the most sustainable cities in Germany, it converted many of its bygone industrial sites into museums and leisure facilities.
Featuring large parks such as Westfalenpark, museums like Binarium Dortmund and the German Soccer Museum, Dortmund is a city full of surprises for its visitors. The festive nature of German people can be seen in most of the brewery taverns that dot the city center, as well as during the festive season, when Dortmund hosts one of Germany's finest Christmas markets.
What are the best things to do in Dortmund?Read more


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Circle Bakote is a part of District and Tehsil Abbottabad and lies in NA-17 and PK-45. PML-N leader Sardar Mehtab Ahmad Khan who also served as Chief Minister of NWFP belongs to circle Bakote village Malkot Union Council Palak. Circle Bakote has a prime significance in the politics of Hazara and in past, it has remained a stronghold of PML-N and except 2002 elections, PML-N has got majority votes from this region all the times. However, in 2002, PML-Q candidate Aman Ullah Khan Jadoon managed to grab NA-17 seat and he served as federal minister for petroleum for five years.
PTI tsunami has reached in Circle Bakote as well like all other parts of the country and PTI has become a serious threat for Sardar Mehtab Ahmad Khan MNA and his Son MPA Sardar Shamoon Yaar Khan. PTI leaders like Ali Asghar Khan, Dr Azhar Jadoon, Raja Mubeen Ur Rehman, Nazir Ahmad Abbasi, Abdur Rehman Abbasi, Tahir Faraz Abbasi, Javed Akram Abbasi and PTI Youth from all union councils of Circle Bakote is very active in mobilizing the people and in spreading PTI's message in all parts of Circle Bakote. PTI held some great meetings in Bakote, Patan, Kukmang and Dalola just after Eid and a large number of notables and youth joined PTI during these meetings. Currently majority of Ex-Nazims and Councilors is supporting PTI including Haji Abdur Razaq Abbasi of UC Palak, Nazir Ahmad Abbasi of UC Bakote, Khalid Gul of UC Kukmang, Pir Azhar Bakoti from Bakote and Tahir Faraz Abbasi a renowned lawyer.
The real problem for PTI is to ensure unity among its leadership and workers at such a critical time when its yet unclear who will get National Assembly and Provincial Assembly ticket of PTI. For national seat, two potential candidates of PTI are Dr Azhar Khan Jadoon and Ali Asghar Khan while for provincial seat, potential candidates are Nazir Ahmad Abbasi, Raja Mubeen Ur Rehman Abbasi, Abdur Rehman Abbasi and Tahir Faraz Abbasi. Ideological youth of PTI is determined to support the party and not any individual. They have reiterated that they will support any one who gets PTI ticket and will never support any divisions within party folds.
Below are some of the latest news of PTI circle Bakote taken from Weekly Hill News:


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That might be the best death-defying tale I've ever heard.Dr. Pyro wrote:If you insist. It was August, 1984 and me and a buddy were fishing (which has nothing to do with actually catching fish) up above Lake Almanor, near the town of Chester, CA. We could hear this boom-boom-boom but thought they were blasting the roads prior to paving. We were on a granite outcasting in, for want of a better word, like a volcano in the sense that if you look up from the lake all you can see is the top of the mountain all around you. All of the sudden black clouds blew in and the temperture dropped about 30 degrees in a moment; similar to opening a freezer door. Then it happened. Lightning strikes every couple of seconds and we see dozens of people running like hell away from the lake. It was hailing and raining and after trying to "hide" from the weather under a small granite overhang, we started running down what was just moments ago a nice path but had turned into a rushing river. All of the sudden there was a deafening BOOM! and I get hit by the bolt. Imagine the brightest light you've ever seen exploding inside of your brain. It was as if I had been hit in the back with a 4X4, all of the air was sucked out of my lungs and it flung me maybe 20 feet. I hit this ground, which really was mostly granite and dirt, and my buddy turned around and yelled, "JIM!" I couldn't respond. He came and literally had to pry my fingers out of the granite and together we made it back to the truck, leaving our fishing gear and beer behind. I had hundreds of small cuts, maybe three inches long, all over my body. But for the most part I was fine. Turns out lightning has the main bolt (which would have cut me in two) and "fingers" along side. That's what got me. We hightailed it the hell out of there and didn't stop until we got to Chico. Turned out the same storm a short while later killed four climbers on El Capitan in Yosemite from lightning. Not the most pleasant day I've ever had. Thankfully we had more beer in the truck.
(Although I am still accepting applications.)
I arrive at this judgment through a complicated equation involving 1) probability of fiery death 2) actual injuries incurred, by contrast 3) luck experienced 4) proximity of witnesses 5) descriptiveness; ease of visuals 6) more beer in the truck.


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- Home
- Skateboard Building
- Bamboo Veneer 10-Pack
Bamboo Veneer 10-Pack
Product Description:
All the way from China, this sanded bamboo is milled specially for building skateboards. Non-carbonized, it has a natural light-honey color.
Bamboo sheets are made of many vertical strips, sanded and glued together. Our bamboo stock is milled to a thickness that is suitable for bending into pretty radical curves, however not as extreme as maple or birch.
Bamboo boards have great properties for riding, in that it gives you back as much rebound as you put into it.
The bamboo is very fragile to handle until it is laminated, we have to ship this in special crates so that it will survive the trip. That's why it is only available in 10 or 20 pack sizes.
The sheet size is 10.5 x 46".
This current shipment of bamboo is milled to 5/64" which is very slightly thicker than our previous order of 1/16".
Bamboo Veneer 10-Pack
- 10 layers of bamboo per pack: all long grain
- 10.5 x 46 x 5/64"
As this is a new material for us, we will be posting tutorials online when we (and our customers) experiment with this fine stock.
Experiment making an all-bamboo board, or use this as a top or bottom sheet, or other combination of a hybrid of maple and bamboo.
Best Vacuum Bag size: 20 x 70" Thin Air Press TPK20
Bamboo is very fragile. Splits are a fact of life with this stock. Even gentle handling will likely result in sheets splitting or even breaking completely along the glue lines. Shipping increases the chance of splits, despite our careful packing. If you order this stock, you will most likely encounter splits, however the sheets are entirely useable.
Please do not contact us to tell us there are splits. Simply apply glue to those lines while pressing your board. Once dried, the board will be very strong.
Q: What type of glue do I use with bamboo?
A: Same as with the maple and birch, Titebond III.
Q: Is bamboo the lightest veneer?
A: No. We made 3 identical shaped pintails, and here are the weights: Maple: 1.8 kg (3.968 lbs)
Bamboo: 1.6 kg (3.527 lbs)
Birch: 1.5 kg (3.300 lbs)
Q: For a 100% bamboo board, what about cross band sheets?
A: We recommend either using maple or birch cross grain sheets, or you can make your own using bamboo, by cutting and edge-joining sheets yourself. The skateboard industry sometimes uses no cross band and applies fiberglass to help strengthen.
Q: How easy is bamboo to work with?
A: It is very easy to cut and sand, although not as nice smelling as maple or birch!
Q: Will using a bamboo sheet as a cosmetic layer affect how my maple board works?
A: A single bamboo bottom sheet will not affect the pop of an otherwise maple board


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For the new mayor, a single issue does not define an administration. The proposal would increase taxes on those earning north of $500,000 annually. That class of earners pays 3.87 percent to the city in taxes annually, and the figure would jump to 4.41 percent if the mayor gets what he wants.
The initial public reaction was that this was just another progressive attempt to redistribute income, but to some extent so are most government programs. What de Blasio has going for him in the language of a proposal like that is the notion that all children in the city would be offered a pre-kindergarten education.
If he had said that "more" children would be covered, the increase would look more like he was bilking the wealthy. But by saying that all children would be covered, he can claim to have addressed a problem, even if critics may disagree with the means.
If another $1,000 from the wealthiest New Yorkers is going to cover every single child in this area of education, he can pull a lot of support from the public.
The mayor is going to get some push-back on this plan, because all tax hikes should come with some degree of skepticism. In the end, however, de Blasio will most likely get this increase and he will apply the added revenue to universal pre-K education.
That brings us to the larger question of whether this is worth it. If you're asking people to pay for a government program, it better be efficient. The plan has to bring results.
City Hall should be open to auditing this program to see how well young children react to pre-K. In the end, it may be worth it, but only if the results are there.
De Blasio took a bold step in pushing for this, but he did it the right way: early in his campaign. He put the idea out there right away, and allowed for criticism to burn out.
Had he introduced that idea in August, he may have gotten anchored behind some of the other Democrats in the primary. The mayor played his hand well, and now we will see how the plan plays out in government.
There Goes The Neighborhood
The development of the Queens Savoy Hotel on 82nd Avenue and Queens Boulevard does not fit the neighborhood over which it is currently towering.
There were talks for years that Pasta Lovers restaurant and the real estate firm that it is working with might not build such a monstrosity in a residential area, but alas, it is slated to open for business in the spring.
The property values of those of us in that middle-class section of Queens are now completely compromised. Part of the building will be residences and the other part will be a hotel...for those jet setters who look to vacation on the white sand beaches of Kew Gardens.
This project is nothing short of economic bullying to a community that will only suffer because of it.


text:
NOTICE: The Processors Wiki will End-of-Life in December of 2020. It is recommended to download any files or other content you may need that are hosted on processors.wiki.ti.com. The site is now set to read only.
The eZ430-Chronos is a highly integrated, wireless development system that provides a complete reference design for developers creating wireless smart watch applications. Chronos is a reference platform for many applications, such as wireless watch systems, personal displays for personal area networks, wireless sensor nodes for remote data collection, & other applications.
Based on the CC430F6137 <1 GHz RF SoC, the eZ430-Chronos is a complete CC430-based development system, featuring a 96 segment LCD display and provides an integrated pressure sensor and 3-axis accelerometer for motion sensitive control.
The integrated wireless feature allows the Chronos to act as a central hub for nearby wireless sensors such as pedometers and heartrate monitors. The eZ430-Chronos offers temperature and battery voltage measurement and is complete with a USB-based CC1111 (kits with black PCBs) or CC1101/MSP430F5509 (kits with white PCBs) wireless interface to a PC.
The eZ430-Chronos watch may be disassembled to be reprogrammed with a custom application and includes an eZ430 USB programming interface.
- 1 Development Features
- 2 What's Included
- 3 Ordering & Availability
- 4 Documentation (User Guide, Schematics & Instructions)
- 5 Projects
- 5.1 New openchronos-ng-elf Release
- 5.2 Openchronos-ng Release
- 5.3 Chronos Software Release
- 5.4 Previous Chronos Software Releases
- 5.5 Control Center for Windows (Install this first)
- 5.6 Factory Programmed Chronos Firmware
- 5.7 Data Logger
- 5.8 Lucid Scribe Plugin
- 5.9 CC430F6137 Code Examples
- 5.10 eZ430 python tools
- 5.11 Hello world
- 5.12 Wireless Update (RF BSL)
- 5.13 OpenChronos Firmware
- 5.14 PC/Chronos Communication
- 5.15 Wireless Door Lock
- 5.16 Chronos-theremin: Motion-based Theremin MIDI controller (Linux)
- 5.17 ez430-Chronos + Visual Studio 2010 + Robotic RC car
- 5.18 Interfacing the USB Transceiver with AT90USB µC
- 5.19 Count Down Timer
- 5.20 Interval Training Application Example Using State Machine Design
- 5.21 Battery Monitoring and Low Voltage Level Handling Application Example
- 5.22 Chronos Flying Mouse
- 5.23 safeBABI
- 5.24 Chronos High 5 Me!
- 5.25 Electronic Rock-Em Sock-Em Robots
- 5.26 Pro Swing Analyzer
- 5.27 Smart Office: Automatic Lighting System
- 5.28 Ultimate Workout Companion
- 5.29 RF-PID: Personal Item Finder
- 5.30 Remote Disconnect and Load Management using Smart Energy Meter
- 5.31 EZ-House: Chronos Home Automation
- 5.32 The Punch Meter
- 5.33 Location Aware Temperature Control
- 5.34 Chronos Tennis
- 5.35 Rubato – Tempo at the discretion of the performer
- 5.36 Altitude Accumulator
- 5.37 Light Control
- 5.38 Chronos + Google Time-based One Time Password (TOTP) Authenticator
- 5.39 Chronos plugin for the MiCasaVerde Vera home automation platform
- 5.40 Another robot with wheels and robot arm, using CC1110
- 5.41 This Chronos firmware adds many new functions and extensions for existing menus
- 5.42 Chronos-Control | PC mouse and keyboard control using TI Chronos
- 5.43 Toscanini: A gestural control interface for Max/MSP
- 5.44 Skydiving Altimeter
- 5.45 Updated firmware and Control Center
- 5.46 Persistent alarm clock
- 5.47 MyChronos: Slightly modified stock code with new features
- 5.48 Linux Joystick & Mouse driver
- 5.49 Drummer
- 5.50 Equilibrium
- 5.51 Authentication System by proximity
- 5.52 Contributing Projects
- 6 Chronos Partners
- 7 Compatible Accessories
- 8 Support
- 10 Related Products
- 11 Other Resources (SEO)
Development Features[edit]
- Fully reprogrammable development environment based on the CC430F6137. The CC430 is an MSP430 that is integrated <1GHz wireless transceiver for custom wireless applications
- Highly integrated, re-programmable watch development tool includes on-board 3-axis accelerometer, pressure sensor, temperature sensor, battery voltage sensor
- 96-Segment LCD display driven directly by CC430
- Can be paired wirelessly with heart rate monitors, pedometers or other devices based on RF transceivers like the CC430 or CC1111 during the development process
- Includes an eZ430 USB emulator that connects the Chronos to a PC for real-time, in-system programming and debugging
- Includes IAR Kickstart and Code Composer Studio integrated development environments
- The watch development tool is 30m water-resistant. See FAQ section in User Guide for details.
Related Videos[edit]
- eZ430-Chronos Unboxing
- eZ430-Chronos Unboxing (german)
- eZ430-Chronos Intro and Feature Overview
- eZ430-Chronos Watch Disassembly and Assembly
- Wireless Door Unlocking Using Chronos
- TI EZ430-Chronos Works in Linux
- Controlling a robot arm using an ez430 Chronos
- Chronos Based Theremin Demo
- An RC car controlled with Chronos ez430 (Explanation)
- An RC car controlled with Chronos ez430 (Demo)
- Chronos watch directly controlling a Mecanum Wheel Rover using Python
- eZ430-Chronos Custom text scrolling
- eZ430 Chronos, RC Car, Arduino, USB Host Shield (First tests)
- eZ430 Chronos, RC Car, Arduino, USB Host Shield (Real driving tests)
- eZ430 Chronos Slightly Modified Firmware
What's Included[edit]
- Chronos watch
- eZ430 USB programming and debugging interface
- CC1111 USB RF access point (legacy kit, black PCB) or MSP430F5509/CC1101 USB Access point (current kit, white PCB)
- Chronos Disassembly Tool (Mini Phillips screwdriver)
- 2 extra screws
- 4-pin debugger solder-on connector for access point (current kit, white PCBs)
- CR2032 Coin Cell Lithium Battery (Battery life is estimated in User Guide)
Integrated Sensors[edit]
- 3-Axis Accelerometer - current kit with white PCB (Bosch Sensortec BMA250)
- Pressure Sensor - current kit with white PCB (Bosch Sensortec BMP085)
- 3-Axis Accelerometer - legacy kit with black PCB (VTI CMA3000 Series)
- Pressure Sensor - legacy kit with black PCB (VTI SCP1000 Series)
- Temperature Sensor (Built in to CC430F6137)
- Battery/Voltage Sensor (Built in to CC430F6137)
Development Software[edit]
Although there are many other compiler and integrated development environments for MSP430 including the Rowley Crossworks, MSPGCC and MSPGCC4, the two main options supporting the eZ430-Chronos are IAR Embedded Workbench KickStart and Code Composer Studio. Both IAR and CCS have free code-limited versions supporting the Chronos. The projects for Chronos are delivered in both full source and pre-compiled library options to avoid any code size restrictions.
Ordering & Availability[edit]
|Order Now
|RF Operating
|Common Operating
|Ship Date
|433 MHz
|TI eStore
|868 MHz
|Europe & India
|In Stock Now!
|TI eStore
|915 MHz
|N. & S. America
|In Stock Now!
Documentation (User Guide, Schematics & Instructions)[edit]
- eZ430-Chronos User Guide (SLAU292): Start here - Technical details and instructions for Chronos
- CC430 User Guide: Technical user manual for using the CC430, the MCU in Chronos
- CC430F613x Datasheet: Electrical specifications for the CC430F613x
- Chronos Teardown & Getting Started Presentation: The combined presentations from ESC San Jose 2010.
New openchronos-ng-elf Release[edit]
Openchronos-ng-elf is a fork of Openchronos-ng that compiles with TI's new open source GCC compiler.
It also includes:
- A working Google Authenticator like module (OTP/2FA)
- Better stopwatch
- Great stability
- Easy build system
- Automatic builds of the firmware on CircleCI
- Direct download of the latest compiled firmware.
- Overall a much better user experience and closer usage to a normal wrist watch
Openchronos-ng Release[edit]
Openchronos-ng is a fork of openchronos where the entire system was reworked. We also added new features:
- Virtual screen
- System message bus for system<->module communication.
- hardware RTC timekeeping (no more clock inaccuracy).
- rework of timer and ports drivers.
- implementation of a module build system (drop in applications).
- rework of the display system.
- rework of the menu system.
The firmware code is also conceptually simpler and smaller which leaves room for more modules (applications). Have a look to our generated API docs if you plan to add functionality. Right now we are in the process of polishing the code, a release is coming very soon, stay in tune!
Chronos Software Release[edit]
As of October 2013, new versions of the Chronos Software packages for Windows and Linux are available.
What's new in release 1.9:
- Updated package to support CCSv5.5 / IAR EW430 5.60.2 and greater (functional with full and restricted (free) IDE versions). This applies to the Chronos Access Point as well to the Chronos source projects
- All the source projects (watch and access point) are available both in CCS and IAR
- Added Wireless Update feature to the new access point (white PCB) in source code and recovery files
- Merged software projects for watch with black and white PCB - (white/black PCB determination during runtime)
- Updated documentation including the last revision of the eZ430-Chronos user's guide
- Fixed various minor issues in Chronos Control Center and Datalogger GUI
Known Limitation in release 1.9:
- The wireless update of the Chronos with the white access point takes slightly longer given a smaller payload length
- The USB friendly name for the white access point is not part of the DLL for source. Workaround: manually add "eZ430-ChronosAP" friendly name to sources
- Due to restricted write permissions under Program Files on Windows 7. Workaround: use different installation directory or copy IAR project to location different location
Important note for Windows 8 users:
- Windows 8 does not support the installation of unsigned drivers by default. Hence, ensure to "Disable driver signature enforcement" in the Windows 8 "Startup Setting" menu prior to running the eZ430-Chronos installer package.
Previous Chronos Software Releases[edit]
What's new in release 1.8:
- Added documentation for new Chronos kit series (white PCBs) - Gerber files, schematics and BOM
- Added software projects for new Chronos kit series (white PCBs)
- Updated Control Center DLL & USB driver installation to support both, legacy (blach PCBs) and new Chronos kits (white PCBs)
- Added software projects for new MSP430F5509/CC1101 based access point
- Supports CCSv5.3 and IAR 5.51 and newer
Known issues in release 1.8:
- The Wireless Update feature is currently not available for the current Chronos kits (white PCB)
- The Wireless Update feature on the Chronos Control Center v1.2 will only work if the RF access point contains firmware version v1.1 (legacy Chronos kits with black PCB - see next section).
- CCS projects for new Chronos kits require full CCS license
- Only supports CCSv4.2.1 and IAR 5.20 or greater (legacy kit projects - black PCB)
What's new in release 1.2:
- Fixed LCD freeze issue (in some cases the LCD froze and was only updated when a button was pressed)
- Backlight stays on for 3 sec. when light button was pushed
- Misc. usability improvements in the Chronos Control Center and Datalogger application
- Fixed minor issues in Chronos Control Center and Datalogger application (text was cut off on some PCs)
- Setup issues in the IAR Wireless-Update project for the Chronos (CC430F6137) were fixed
- Updated documentation including eZ430-Chronos-433 Gerber files, schematics and BOM
- Overall CCS/IAR project cleanup and alignment with .txt recovery images
- Supports CCSv4.2.1 and IAR 5.20 and newer
Known issues in release 1.2:
- The Wireless Update feature on the Chronos Control Center v1.2 will only work if the RF access point contains firmware version v1.1 (see next section).
- Only supports CCSv4.2.1 and IAR 5.20 or greater
What's new in release 1.1:
- Linux support of Chronos Control Center / Data Logger PC software
- Upgraded to SimpliciTI 1.1.1
- Full sources are available now for the watch, the CC1111 access point and the GUI (the only exception is the Blue Robin protocol)
- Misc. fixes on the watch SW such as improved Key Lock, easier setting of the altitude (if you keep the button pushed, the value will change faster)
- The GUI allows to store Key configurations now (i.e. you can pre-define settings for PowerPoint, iTunes,...)
- New Wireless Update feature. This allows to update the software on the watch over the air. You can simply swap the Data
Logger/Sports Watch software examples (or your own ones, as long as allow to invoke the Wireless Update mechanism again) over the air, i.e. no need to open the watch. This requires an initial update of the watch, the PC software and the RF access point (you need the CC Debugger for that purpose).
Known issues in release 1.1:
- The software packages contain source projects for the Wireless Update. The corresponding IAR project will erase the calibration data of the watch (in information memory). Moreover, there may be a error message that no access point can be found. We're working on resolving this issue. In the meantime, please use the eZ430-Chronos Firmware Update Tool from BM innovations to program the BSL memory of the CC430.
- The Wireless Update feature on the new Chronos Control Center v1.1 will only work once the RF access point was updated with the new software.
Control Center for Windows (Install this first)[edit]
The eZ430 Chronos Control Center allows you to see most of the functionality of the Chronos in action. It will wirelessly pair with the Chronos and allow you to:
- Plot Accelerometer data
- Calibrate the accelerometer, temperature altimeter sensor
- Enables motion-based control of the mouse
- Enables wireless control of PowerPoint presentations
- Maps the buttons on the Chronos to user defined keyboard shortcuts
- Sync the time with your PC
- Update firmware on watch wirelessly (requires SW update on USB access point)
- Emulate a heart rate monitor. PC and Chronos will display the same heart rate and speed info.
- Download data logged on the Chronos to your PC. NOTE: The data logger isn't a part of the factory programming of the Chronos and different firmware must be downloaded to the Chronos.
Installing the software (SLAC341/SLAC388) will also copy the following files to your computer:
- Control Centers
- Chronos Control Center binary
- Chronos Data logger binary
- GUI source code
- Documentation:
- eZ430-Chronos User Guide (SLAU292)
- Schematics, Layout (Gerbers) & BOM for Access Point, Debug Interface, and Watch
- Drivers for:
- RF Access Point
- eZ430 debug interface
- Application Binaries (Recovery) for Sports watch firmware, Data logger firmware (all frequency), Wireless updater (rf BSL), RF Access Point.
- Application Source Code for Sports watch firmware, Data logger firmware (all frequency), Wireless updater (rf BSL), RF Access Point. Both IAR and CCS projects are included.
Download Now for Windows (SLAC341)
Download Now for Linux (SLAC388)
Factory Programmed Chronos Firmware[edit]
The factory-loaded program may be loaded back onto the watch if needed or it can be used as a starting point to create a new, custom application.
- Basic watch functions:
- Time
- Date
- Alarm
- Stopwatch
- Sensor Measurement and display:
- Altitude
- 3-Axis accelerometer
- Battery voltage
- Temperature
- Fitness Functions (Requires an compatible heart rate monitor):
- Heart rate
- Running speed
- Distance traveled
- Calories burned
- Wireless Modes:
- ACC: Transmit accelerometer motion data
- PPT: Wireless presentation control or bind Chronos keys to PC keyboard shortcuts
- Sync: Syncs time and date with PC and calibrates Temperature and Altitude
- Wireless Protocols Included:
The source code for this project is installed by Chronos-setup.exe. By default, the source code is copied to C:\Program Files\Texas Instruments\eZ430-Chronos\Software Projects
Data Logger[edit]
The eZ430-Chronos can be used as a data logger. Heart rate, temperature, and altitude can be logged in user definable intervals of 1 to 255 seconds. 8kB of internal Flash memory is reserved for logging for several hours up to days, depending on the settings. The stored data can be transferred to a PC (in CSV format) and used for further analysis.
The source code for this project is installed by Chronos-setup.
Lucid Scribe Plugin[edit]
Lucid Scribe is a performance monitor for your Self, designed to detect REM sleep and trigger audio tracks. It has a plugin for the chronos, but more sleep research data is needed on the Lucid Scribe Project to complete the rapid eye movement detection algorithm.
CC430F6137 Code Examples[edit]
The code examples are a series of ~100 sample programs written in C that demonstrate several ways to configure each of the peripherals on the CC430. Using CCS or IAR, each file can be downloaded directly to the device or snippets from each example can be combined to achieve your desired function.
eZ430 python tools[edit]
Fully open source project to provide python scripts which interact with the eZ430. With a view to create a fully featured python set of classes for interacting with the watch. Git-Hub link
Alternative python library which could be merged with the above :- Alternative Python Library
Hello world[edit]
Trivial example of how to show some data using the LCD display
More advanced example of how to show some text on the LCD display and make it SCROLL
Wireless Update (RF BSL)[edit]
The Wireless Update feature allows you to change the firmware on the Chronos wirelessly. There will be no need to open the enclosure to upgrade the program in use. Hardware debugging (setting breakpoints, single stepping, etc) is not possible over a BSL because physical access to the JTAG/Spy Bi-Wire is required for in-system programming.
All eZ430-Chronos produced after April 2010 will include this feature. The production code is found on the bottom of the box. However, earlier kits have to be manually updated to support the wireless Update.
How to update eZ430-Chronos to support the Wireless Update:
- Update your Chronos watch. Please download the eZ430-Chronos Firmware Update Tool from BM innovations at:
- Extract the files
- Open watch, remove battery and connect to emulator (see eZ430-Chronos user guide for details)
- Connect emulator to PC (Either Code Composer Studio or the IAR Embedded Workbench must be installed to obtain the drivers)
- Select script according to local frequency
- Click RUN
- Update the USB access point (requires the CC-Debugger and SmartRF programming interfaces) - Only necessary for kit built before April 2010:
- Solder 5 wires onto the RF access point as described in the Chronos user guide
- Download and install SmartRF Flash Programmer
- Connect access point to emulator and the emulator to PC
- Press "Reset" button on CC Debugger, LED will turn green
- Open .hex file in SmartRF Flash Programmer according to frequency
- Select option "Erase, Program and Verify" and click "Perform Action"
- Install new Chronos Control Center software from SLAC341 for Windows or SLAC388 for Linux.
- Updating Software on the watch:
- Open Control Center
- Select "Wireless Update" tab
- Open .txt file e.g. Datalogger in directory: C:\Program Files\Texas Instruments\eZ430-Chronos\Recovery\Chronos Watch\Applications
- Only transfer flash images to the watch, which allow invoking the updater software on the
- watch. The file to be downloaded to the watch must be in TI-TXT format to work with this update
- procedure. This new firmware must reside within the main memory flash (0x8000-0xFFFF),
- otherwise the update procedure fails due to boundary checks on the watch side.
- Click "Update Watch"
- Push "#" on the watch until "rFbSL" is shown on the LCD
- Push "*" to activate update
The watch will show "RAM" for a short time. During that time, a part of the update software will be transferred to the RAM of the CC430 on the Chronos watch. Once this was finished, the actual code will be transferred, the progress will be shown in percent.
OpenChronos Firmware[edit]
OpenChronos is a modular firmware for the EZ430-Chronos, primary designed to be compiled with the msp430-gcc. Features can be configured with "make config" to save space and add additional components.
Instructions to setup OpenChronos developer environment on Ubuntu.
Development group and mailing list
PC/Chronos Communication[edit]
These programs have been tested in Windows, Linux, and Mac OS X.
By default, the programs are setup to run in Windows. You must change the COM port number to the COM port your wireless access point is assigned to in the code for the programs to work correctly. The directions for this are in the source code, so see the source code for details.
To get the programs working in Linux both programs have a line in the code that says:
ser = serial.Serial(5,115200,timeout=1)
change that line to:
ser = serial.Serial("/dev/ttyACM0",115200,timeout=1)
If another USB device attached to the machine the device may be /dev/ttyACM1, /dev/ttyACM2, etc.
or in OSX: Get pySerial (http://sourceforge.net/projects/pyserial)
ser = serial.Serial("/dev/tty.usbmodem001",115200,timeout=1)
If you get this console error, it means the access point dongle is not plugged in. If everything was loaded successfully once, a more informative dialog box is popped up in this case.
bad option "-mode": should be one of -blocking, -buffering, -buffersize, -encoding, -eofchar, or -translation while executing
Once plugged in, you should get a dmesg log entry like this (Linux 2.6):
[219258.599319] cdc_acm: v0.26:USB Abstract Control Model driver for USB modems and ISDN adapters
- LabVIEW 2010 application to read acceleration data from the Chronos (including a Theremin example)
- Python application to sync the Chronos with host PC's time (Python 2.6 and pySerial are both required)
- Python application to read acceleration data from the Chronos (Python 2.6 and pySerial are both required)
- Python code to read the button presses in PPT mode
- Python script for controlling mouse under Linux
- Processing version of the accelerometer code
- Processing improved version of the accelerometer code above demonstrating how to write data to a file. Code here.
- Processing version of the code to get button presses
- Processing sketch demonstrating how to graph accelerometer data
- Ruby program to read the accelerometer data from the Chronos and an application to control a robot arm
- .Net library written in C# to communicate with an Chronos access point. http://ez430chronosnet.sourceforge.net/
- .Net Source code to get data in ACC mode using Visual Basic .NET (English): http://www.tupperbot.com/
- .Net (Spanish) Source code to get data in ACC mode using Visual Basic .NET: http://www.tupperbot.es/
- Matlab simple code to read acceleration data from the Chronos under Linux
Wireless Door Lock[edit]
Using the new TI eZ430-Chronos sport development watch, this an electronic door unlock device. The watch communicates wirelessly to lock and unlock the door after given a secret password (a sequence of taps on the watch's 3-axis accelerometer). This system demonstrates an ultra-low power consumption wireless system using TI's MSP430 architecture, achieving estimated battery lifetimes of over 4 years on the watch and over a year on the door.
Chronos-theremin: Motion-based Theremin MIDI controller (Linux)[edit]
Chronos-theremin is a Python script for using TI Chronos watch (wiki) as a MIDI controller under Linux. It can also be modified for any other serial device providing usable (preferably accelerometar data) output.
Chronos-theremin is released under GPLv3 license.
ez430-Chronos + Visual Studio 2010 + Robotic RC car[edit]
Use Visual Studio to get the data sent by the ez430-Chronos. transform the raw data and use it to control a robotic RC car.
- Source code to read the ez430-Chronos using VB.Net also in Spanish here
- Demo video of the system
- Demo video of the RC car driven by the ez430-Chronos.
Interfacing the USB Transceiver with AT90USB µC[edit]
An ongoing project on using the USB Transceiver with an AVR(tm) AT90USB-series microcontroller, where the AVR microcontroller is in Host mode.
Initialization is already fully functional. It's LUFA powered.
The Project goal is remote controlling various devices using the watch.
Syso 21:15, 9 February 2010 (UTC)
Count Down Timer[edit]
Count down from any time under 20 hours.
Interval Training Application Example Using State Machine Design[edit]
This application example implements interval training utilities on the TI Chronos Watch using IAR visualSTATE and IAR Embedded Workbench for MSP430. It monitors heart rate and manages work and rest intervals. The application consists of an IAR visualSTATE project and an integrated IAR Embedded Workbench project. The projects can be built using code size and state limited versions of the tools available for free from IAR Systems website, still leaving enough room for modifications and additions to the source.
Battery Monitoring and Low Voltage Level Handling Application Example[edit]
This application example builds on the Interval Training example but is slightly more complex and adds battery monitoring and low voltage handling functionality. It also introduces the concept of parallel regions in the state machine.
Chronos Flying Mouse[edit]
Use the Chronos watch as an intuitive computer mouse or joystick with snap-to-click technology. Watch the video!.
Did you know: There have been 17 deaths this summer from children being left in hot cars?
The safe Baby Alert Broadcast Interface uses a TI C1110 wireless interface attached to a car seat to trigger an alarm on the eZ-430 Chronos watch when a baby is left in the car seat.
Chronos High 5 Me![edit]
High five counter with Twitter reporting
Electronic Rock-Em Sock-Em Robots[edit]
Watch Our Video! Exciting 2-player game using the Chronos watch to punch and move the robots on an actual Rock 'Em Sock 'Em Robots game board.
Pro Swing Analyzer[edit]
Sports application specific to swing technique, speed, and other various logistics. When the Chronos watch was first announced for the Co-Op challenge, a bunch of ideas were thrown around about using the watch to control devices like your television or stereo. Although most of these ideas are useful, none of them reached out to potential consumers wanting to buy this watch. Feeding off the idea of pleasing a consumer, I started at the origin with watches original functions. This is a typical sports watch with functions such as a heart rate monitor, altimeter, stopwatch, running speed, etc. All sports enthusiast related functions. So, the natural progression is to improve the watch for the athlete. The goal is to give the target consumer, the athlete, additional reasons to make a buying decision as opposed to "couch potato" features like a TV controller giving no added convenience that a normal controller doesn't already contain. The Pro Swing Analyzer, the next generation of sports watches.
Smart Office: Automatic Lighting System[edit]
Watch the demonstration video - Video! The system implemented in this project includes wireless automatic and manual blinds controlled by the Chronos EZ430 watch. The blinds are controlled in an auto mode depending on the light intensity in front or behind the blinds (read from the 2 strategically placed light dependent resistors (LDR) sensors). The user also has the option of manual blinds control and turning the lights on and off in the room with the watch.
Ultimate Workout Companion[edit]
The Ultimate Workout Companion offers the ultimate in TI technology to provide its user with the best workout experience possible. It interfaces simultaneously with multiple wireless devices and internal sensors to provide an accurate heart rate, distance traveled, calories burned, and weight lost. It warns the user if they are overexerting themselves or overheating. It also interfaces with your multimedia PC for playing and pausing workout videos.
RF-PID: Personal Item Finder[edit]
Never lose your personal items again! The RF Item-Finder helps keep track of your daily items such as; cellphones, keys, mp3 players, or even television remotes.
Remote Disconnect and Load Management using Smart Energy Meter[edit]
This application is for Smart Grid and Smart Energy (electricity) meter customers. Through this application, home owners and utility companies can remotely monitor and disconnect total or partial energy services. In addition, it serves as a tool for home and office owners with remote load management which allows them to save money on their electricity bills. Watch the video
EZ-House: Chronos Home Automation[edit]
EZ-Home uses the EZ-430 Chronos watch as a control device for the AC system and the lights of the house. It is also expandable to control the garage door, the main door of the house and any other application such as projector screens or hearths.
The Punch Meter[edit]
This is a 30 second game that requires strength and speed! An excellent stress relief for work. Enjoy.
Location Aware Temperature Control[edit]
The Location-Aware Temperature Control allows for more intelligent control of the user's home HVAC system. It wirelessly monitors the location and temperature of the room in which the user is currently located. This allows the system to dynamically control the indoor environment to maximize user comfort. It paves the way for inexpensive and eco-friendly smart homes, making this type of technology much more accessible to a large base of customers.
Chronos Tennis[edit]
Multiplayer Tennis Game Using the Chronos Watch
Rubato – Tempo at the discretion of the performer[edit]
Go ahead--embrace your inner hippie, rock 'n' roller, pop star, or whatever you want without losing the correct Tempo. This app adjusts your music Tempo to the rhythm of your heart.
Altitude Accumulator[edit]
For an active outdoors person. The altitude accumulator function tracks how much vertical you've gained. Great for hiking, biking, skiing, and other hilly outdoor pursuits. It accumulates total vertical gain as you travel over rolling terrain, tracking total vertical, peak altitude, and your current altitude relative to your starting point. It will also properly display altitudes of greater than 9999 feet by using the bottom line of the display. Full sourcecode and details here.
Light Control[edit]
No more need get out of the bed to switch the light on or off! In this project I adopted the firmware of the TI Chronos to control my bedroom light.
Chronos + Google Time-based One Time Password (TOTP) Authenticator[edit]
Generates time code for the Google Authenticator. You don't have to worry when your phone dies anymore.
Another implementation:
Compatible with google new 32 bytes secrets https://github.com/amd989/ezTOTP
Chronos plugin for the MiCasaVerde Vera home automation platform[edit]
Currently uses default chronos firmware to allow watch buttons to trigger home automation events. Future support for temperature sensor and accelerometer is planned. More information on the Vera platform is available at MiCasaVerde.
Another robot with wheels and robot arm, using CC1110[edit]
A small robot with wheels and a robot arm, controlled by the Chronos. Uses the CC1110 on the robot (not a USB stick). More information is available at [1]. A video is available on the same page.
A time adjustment improves watch accuracy significantly. An automatic adjustment for DST (Daylight Saving Time) and a day of week display is available. A second time zone display has an adjustable offset to the main time. The stopwatch is configurable as LAP timer. A countdown timer has been added. The new agility measurement gives an indication of how often and how strong the watch has been accelerated. Programmable time interval and number of measurement cycles are programmable for this measurement. An ambient pressure display is available. Last but not least, there is a number storage for up to 10 4-digit numbers with a locking mechanism and a configurable random number generator. The projects website provides the programming files for an immediate RFBSL download and a detailed user manual for all new functions. Files for all RF frequency versions are available.
Chronos-Control | PC mouse and keyboard control using TI Chronos
This project aims to provide a way for disabled people (such as people with spinal cord injuries) to control a computer using their head movements. System, collects instantaneous data about the head movement of the user, using an accelerometer (TI Chronos) mounted on the user's head and then analyzes and translates this data to cursor movements or click actions. Mouse and keyboard can be both controlled by this system.
Includes source code which communicates with Chronos using Java.
Toscanini: A gestural control interface for Max/MSP
The Toscanini interface retrieves motion data from the EZ-430 Chronos development tool and translates it into MIDI. Three streams of MIDI data are then sent out and can be used to control other Max/MSP applications, software synthesizers, plugins, outboard MIDI hardware, and anything else that makes use of the MIDI protocol on mobilt bredband. Conductive IO, the company that developed the interface, is creating a worldwide community of musicians, developers, artists, performers, and all others who are interested in using motion sensitive technology to further their craft. Contact: firstname.lastname@example.com
Skydiving Altimeter[edit]
This project turns your Chronos watch into skydiving altimeter.
Updated firmware and Control Center[edit]
Updated clock and data logger firmware and updated control center sync and data logger sync.
This is updated watch firmware based on eZ430-Chronos Firmware by monterosa
I removed the agility and put that in the data logger firmware. Also the number storage is removed.
Added new sync functions for the new Control Center.
Included is the new Control Center for windows executable (Linux and mac users can use the gui source with tcl/tk)
Also included is new data logger firmware with agility and ambient pressure logging.
This needs a new Data Logger Control center, windows executable is included. (Linux and mac users can use the gui source with tcl/tk)
All binairies for all 3 frequencies are included as well. and of course all the sources.
The data logger file is more readable now, in colums.
Persistent alarm clock[edit]
Have you ever turned off your alarm, telling yourself that you would wake up a few minutes later, only to wake up an hour later? Have you ever missed a meeting because you turned off your alarm and continued to sleep? With the Persistent Alarm Clock you never will again. The Persistent Alarm Clock records movement data from a TI Chronos EZ430 watch to ensure that you actually get up when you wake up. The software works with any Android device, making it not only effective, but also simple to use.
MyChronos: Slightly modified stock code with new features
MyChronos has the following menu structure:
Line 1:
Time, Altitude, Barometer (in hPa), Alarm, Accelerometer
Line 2:
Date (Down for Year, 3-letters day of week name or 3-letters month name or 2-letters day-of-week or day), Temperature (Down for Max, Min measurement), Battery Voltage, PPT, Sync, Acc, Stopwatch, Reset, Rfbsl.
Video demonstrating the menu structure/features
Linux Joystick & Mouse driver[edit]
Use your Chronos watch as a joystick or mouse device on Linux.
Control percussion instruments by shaking your Chronos. With 3 independent axis we can control 3 instruments.
Note, this is for a PC, it uses either the software MIDI synthesizer of Windows (not very good quality) or one of your own like e.g. VirtualMIDISynth of CoolSoft.
Read the Help for instructions.
Use your Chronos to balance a sphere on a tablet.
Note, this is a PC program.
Read the Help for instructions.
Authentication System by proximity[edit]
Authentication system by proximity using the eZ430-Chronos and CC1111 for Linux.
Source Code
Demo Video
Contributing Projects[edit]
If you've developed a project for the eZ430-Chronos and would like to make it available for everyone, please post it here. Small projects (<2MB) can be uploaded directly to the wiki or they may hosted externally on your personal site, Google Code, SourceForge, Github, or any other file repository.
Chronos Partners[edit]
The eZ430-Chronos kit was developed and manufactured by a team of partners. Besides Texas Instruments, the main driver behind the Chronos, the partners include:
- BM Innovations developed most of the hardware and software. BMi is a development specialist for electronic equipment in the sports and fitness market.
- If you would like to have a custom watch based on the Chronos developed or would like to purchase the Chronos in high volume, please contact BMi directly
- BM innovations GmbH
- +49 8764 94 91 42
- firstname.lastname@example.com
- BM innovations GmbH
- Exosite Exosite worked with the TI EZ430 Chronos RF Access Point Gateway system and monitor your wireless sensor data from the Texas Instruments "ez430-chronos" watch development kit and sends it to Exosite. We provided all the information about how you can connect products with Exosite and point to point information of APIs and demo of public dashboard on Exosite Portals.To purchase TI EZ430 Chronos RF contact
- Exosite
- +1 612 353 2161 x109
- firstname.lastname@example.com
- http://exosite.com/
- Exosite
- IDT manufactured the Chronos. IDT is a leading manufacturer for electronic products in sports, fitness and health care.
- Johanson Technology antennas and matching components are used in the Chronos. Johanson Technology provides ceramic components that optimize RF front end designs. TI applications notes for Johanson Technologies antennas and filter baluns are available.
- Bosch Sensortec pressure sensors and accelerometers are used in the Chronos v1.1. Bosch Sensortec: your partner for sensor solutions with smallest package size and lowest power consumption.
- VTI Technologies pressure sensors and accelerometers are used in the Chronos v1.0. VTI Technologies is a leading provider of acceleration, inclination, motion and pressure sensor solutions.
Compatible Accessories[edit]
Chest straps for heart rate monitoring[edit]
No chest straps are planned for 433MHz.
Bike Sensors[edit]
- BM-BS2 Bike Sensor 868/915MHz - Measures speed and distance based on wheel rotation (according to BMi not before Q2 2011).
No bike sensor is planned for 433MHz.
Compatible RF Development Boards[edit]
- AMB8423 eZ430 868/915MHZ target board based on CC1101 and MSP430F2274
- EM430F6137RF900 CC430 Wireless Development Board
- CC1101EMK433 CC1101 433 MHz Evaluation Module
- CC1111EMK868-915 CC1111 868/915 MHz Evaluation Module. This is similar to the USB Chronos Access Point except for minor differences in the schematic. It also includes additional headers and for reprogramming using the CC Debugger.
- CC1110DK-MINI-868 CC1110 Mini Development kit
- MSP430-CCRF Olimex MSP430-CCRF (should work, I've ordered the board and will test soon) 868/915MHz
- EZ430-F2013 Is exactly the same as the FET (programmer stick) that comes with the watch (except for the case). So the EZ430-T2012 can be programmed, debugged, flashed ect. as wel, have tested it.This is interesting for the 433MHz watch, 433MHz RF modules are very cheap like TX433N, RX433N less than 10 euro, and easy to connect to a EZ430-T2012 Since 433MHz is not highly supported by TI and BM its very highly supported elsewhere and its the cheapest. Indoor/outdoor weather stationa, wireless doorbells.. ect.. almost always use 433MHz.The 433MHz version is the best choice for students and hobbyist I think (for experimenting).
- panStamps are small Arduino modules with a CC1101 RF frontend for the 868/915MHz ISM bands. panStamps share the same protocol (SWAP) as OpenChronos-NG so the chronos watch (with OpenChronos-NG) can be used to read panStamp sensors and control panStamp actuators.
There are several options to get support for the Chronos:
- Chronos Google Group
- MSP430 Forum
- support.ti.com Direct TI support.
433, 868 & 915 MHz Frequency Differences[edit]
There are 3 different versions of the eZ430-Chronos kit available, the eZ430-Chronos-433, -868, and -915. The only difference between each version is the RF operating frequency that is supported out-of-the-box. Having multiple operating frequencies available allows for the Chronos to comply with regional RF regulations worldwide. If you're debating on which version is best, it's recommended that you purchase the version that was designed for your specific region.
Theoretically, the biggest impact of changing the radio frequency is range. In general, radio frequency is inversely proportional to range. Low frequency signals travel a greater distance and penetrate through and around objects better than high frequency signals. On the other hand, lower frequencies require larger antennas due to the longer wavelength. In the case of the Chronos, the 868 and 915MHz version will have similar RF performance. Evaluation on the 433 MHz version is on-going, but the range is likely to be shorter as a 433MHz antenna can't be much bigger inside the watch housing compared to the other versions. More information will follow once results are available.
Because each version is based on the CC430F6137, most of the other RF performance features are functionally the same on each version. Power consumption, bandwidth, data rate will be identical for each version. The data rate is independent of the radio frequency so it's possible to achieve the max data rate of 500 kbps using any Chronos version.
The 868-MHz and 915-MHz watch hardware are physically identical and the radio frequency is software selectable so it's possible to switch frequency if necessary. However, the RF Access Points for the two respective kits are slightly different. The 868-MHz Access Point has a 0Ω resistor next to the antenna and the 915-MHz version does not. The 433-MHz kit is different than the other versions in both software and hardware.
Related Products[edit]
MetaWatch by Fossil/TI[edit]
Other Resources (SEO)[edit]
Microcontroller, MCU, Embedded Controller, 8 bit microcontroller alternatives, 16 bit microcontroller MSP430, Arm Microcontroller, Arm Processor, 32 bit microcontroller, DC motor controller, Capacitive Touch Microcontroller, Capacitive Touch MCU, Microcontroller Code, Microcontroller Projects, smart grid, 6LoWPAN, Safety Microcontroller, Automotive Microcontroller


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1103. Does length of time engaged in an activity determine a trade or business?
The length of time you engage in an activity usually is a factor in determining if it is a trade or business. If the activity is seasonal or of short duration, however, the period of time is not important.
Selling ice cream during the summer months or owning a grocery store for a short time before selling it. The short time period would not prevent the activity from being covered by Social Security.
Last Revised: March, 2001


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As hospitals deal with growing numbers of obese mothers-to-be, Canada's fertility specialists are considering guidelines over whether they should be helping severely obese women get pregnant.
Doctors opposed to a weight cutoff for in vitro fertilization say denying obese women access to IVF would smack of discrimination, while those in favour of restricting access based on weight say it's purely a medical issue, and not a social one.
Recently published research involving nearly 7,000 women who gave birth at The Ottawa Hospital found the heavier the woman, the greater her risk of pregnancy-repeated complications, including preeclampsia — a potentially life-threatening rise in blood pressure — gestational diabetes and emergency caesarean sections.
Risks to babies include premature birth and stillbirths, as well as a higher risk of spinal abnormalities and other birth defects.
"Right now, many of us are confused as to whether or not we should restrict treatment by weight," said Dr. Jason Min, chair of the clinical practice guidelines committee of the Canadian Fertility and Andrology Society.
"We think there are more adverse outcomes if you do have a higher BMI. But whether or not that actually says you shouldn't treat somebody who is heavy, I think that's a very complicated issue and will ultimately require a lot of input from the stakeholders before we formalize that kind of guideline."
The issue sparked a firestorm of debate at the group's annual general meeting three years ago.
"There is no doubt — there is going to be bun fights over this one. The guidelines are not going to be easy," said Toronto fertility specialist Dr. Carl Laskin.
"Those that feel that there's no reason for a cutoff think that, if you can manage to do the procedures safely, then why should there be a cutoff?" said Dr. Laskin, a past president of the CFAS.
"To me, it's a medical issue. It is not a discrimination issue. [Obese] women are running risks in pregnancy, and if they're running risks in pregnancy, why should you be helping them get pregnant?"
Dr. Laskin has a BMI cut off of 35. "Mine is a brick wall," he said. Other clinics will go as high as 40. Some have no cut off.
Dr. Laskin said obesity makes IVF technically more difficult. With IVF, eggs are retrieved from the woman's ovaries via an ultrasound-guided needle. "But you may have difficulty getting to the ovary," Dr. Laskin said. The ovary tends to be pushed up higher in the woman's anatomy and excess fat can make it harder to visualize the ovaries on ultrasound.
Obese women also tend to respond more poorly to fertility drugs. "You have to use a lot more drug to get a reasonable response," Dr. Laskin said.
"When I do see women with BMIs that are high, I work with them," he said. "I don't think it's right to say, 'You're too heavy, go away and lose X amount of pounds and then call me.'
"I work out a plan for them. I say, 'This is who you want to see, these are the options you can look at to lose weight, yes, you may have been there before but now you have a bigger reason for it.
"I give them all the risk factors and then I bring them back every three months until they are in a range that I believe is safe."
In B.C., private IVF clinics outside hospitals are not permitted to perform egg retrievals in women with a BMI over 38.
Alberta has no restrictions, said Dr. Min, of Calgary's Regional Fertility Program.
We're not at a point where we think it's fair or ethical to limit access to treatment based on a person's weight
"In Calgary, at our clinic, we don't have a BMI cutoff above which we won't treat a patient with IVF," said Dr. Min. "We're not at a point where we think it's fair or ethical to limit access to treatment based on a person's weight."
According to Statistics Canada, 23 per cent of Canadian women are obese. A woman with a body mass index of 30 or more is considered obese.
Obese women not only have more difficulty getting pregnant with IVF, they are also at higher risk of complications during delivery.
"Surgically, when you have to do a caesarean section, it's very difficult and very dangerous because the blood loss, infections — all your complications are more common," said Dr. Mark Walker, a high-risk obstetrician at The Ottawa Hospital
"You're operating through a much more challenging operating field."
Some pregnant women now have BMIs into the 60s, 70s and 80s, he said. The phenomenon is forcing obstetricians to re-fit their weigh-in rooms with scales that can accommodate women weighing more than 350 pounds while maternity wards are buying extra-wide chairs and beds and stronger operating tables.


text:
Melting Point, Pour Point, Flash Point
The most important point of any wax is the flash point. This is the point at which the wax will begin to burn and flame. In general, your pour point is a higher temperature than your melt point so it is very important to use a thermometer and check it vigilantly. The flash point of waxes can happen as early as 250 degrees or as late as 400 degrees depending on the formulation and type of wax. Make sure you are aware of the flash point of the wax you are using!! If it sneaks up on you and a fire does start, DO NOT use water to extinguish the flame! Wax is like oil and it will just make it worse. To extinguish a wax fire use baking soda, sand, flour or a chemical fire extinguisher.
The melting point of wax is the point at which the wax liquefies. There are three main types of paraffin wax: low melt point, medium melt point and high melt point. Low melt point was has a melting point of 130 degrees and higher, medium melt point has a melting point of 130-145 degrees and high melt point has a melting point of 145-150 degrees in general. Low and medium melt point paraffin wax is softer and used in container candles, high melt point paraffin is used in mold and pillar candles. Soy wax has a melt point of anywhere from 120-160 degrees. Beeswax has a melt point of 158 degrees. Palm wax and bayberry wax have a melt point of 130 degrees and up. Depending on the blend or additives added to the waxes the melt point can change, always check manufacturer labels for the exact melting point of your wax.
Pour temperatures of wax vary just as greatly as the melting points of wax. Varying your pouring temperature can also create different effects in your candles. Lowering your melting point can create feathering or starburst patterns in your candles. Not using a good pouring temperature point can also cause imperfections in your candles. Paraffin waxes have pouring temperatures of 155-165 degrees. Soy wax has pouring temperatures of 120-140 degrees. Beeswax has a pouring temperature of 160 degrees. Palm wax has one of the highest pouring temperatures ranging from 188-203 degrees. Bayberry wax has a pouring temperature of 150-165 degrees. As you can see, your pouring temperature is usually higher than your melting point and a thermometer is needed to ensure safety and correct temperatures.
A common myth, that even I have been guilty of believing is the flash point of fragrance oils. The myth is that adding your fragrance oil at a temperature higher than its flash point will burn it off and cause a loss of your scent. Someone much more experienced than I am helped de-mystify this myth for me. Adding fragrance and color will actually lower your temperature of the wax. Adding the fragrance oil at a temperature higher than its flash point will not ruin the scent. The main thing to remember when adding scent is to wait until just before you pour to add it and to stir it for a full two minutes.
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Dr. Sanjay Gupta explains what you need to know about this and other types of knee surgery on a special edition of "SGMD," Saturday-Sunday, 7:30 a.m. ET.
(CNN) -- Robin Gray's knee had been bothering her for almost two years, but when it finally got to the point where it interfered with her duties as a custodian at Emory University, she knew it was time to take action.
"I can go to work, but it's getting to where it hurts all the time," Gray said.
Her doctor, Dr. Shervin Oskouei knew exactly what had to come next for Gray: total knee replacement.
"You can see in her right knee, especially on the medial side, she has no space left between her femur and her tibia," he said.
No space -- meaning no cartilage between the two bones that make up the knee joint -- can cause tremendous pain.
Having to undergo surgery was not good news for Gray, though total knee replacement surgery is among the most common surgeries performed today in the United States.
According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, more than 500,000 people go under the knife each year to have arthritic and damaged knees replaced.
Oskouei invited CNN into his operating room for Gray's surgery, to see exactly how the operation is done.
Step 1: The 'time out'
Wrong-site or wrong-patient surgeries occur more than five times per day in the United States, according to the Joint Commission, an independent health care accreditation group.
To avoid "wrong-side" surgeries -- such as operating on the wrong knee, or even the wrong patient -- The American College of Surgeons has adopted a number of precautions.
Surgeon's advice: Give your knees some TLC
Before the patient is sedated, the surgeon and the anesthesiologist will mark the appropriate surgery site with the patient watching. Often, they will sign their initials directly on the skin using a marker.
Once the patient is wheeled into the operating room, the operating room nurse will again check with the patient and surgeons to ensure that the correct site is being operated on.
Finally, once the patient is asleep, but before the first cut is made, the surgeon will again take a "timeout" to announce what operation he or she is going to perform, and on what side of the patient's body. Once the entire OR staff agrees, the operation can begin.
Step 2: The incision
The first step in any operation -- gain access to the affected area. In Gray's case, that means making 4- to 6-inch cut, starting just above the base of the femur, or thigh bone, and ending just below the head of the tibia, or leg bone.
The cut goes through each of the skin layers, the fat layer, and through the fascia -- a fibrous coating that surrounds the body's organs and cavities.
Step 3: Evaluate the damage
Once the surgeon has gained access to the joint, the next step is to assess the extent of the damage to the bones, cartilage, tendons and ligaments. Some of this can be done with the use of MRI imaging before the surgery, but actually being able to see and touch the affected area gives surgeons a far better idea how extensive their repairs will need to be.
In Gray's case, the cartilage between the femur and tibia was completely worn away, and bone spurs, splinter-like protrusions from the bones, had begun to form.
Step 4: Measure
As in any "construction project," accurate measurements are extremely important. In this case, when the project is someone's knee, there is no room for error.
Surgeons first take measurements of exactly how much of the femur and tibia bones will need to be removed to make room for the implant.
Step 5: Install guides and cut
To ensure that they are cutting away only the diseased parts of the bone, surgeons drill small holes into the head of the bones, and install a cutting guide. These metal appliances have small slits for the saw blade to pass through, and allow the surgeons to cut only the areas of bone they want to cut and protecting the rest of the bone.
Once the guides are installed and measurements are triple-checked, the surgeon uses a bone saw to make the appropriate cuts.
Step 6: Install the implants and close
Once the bone cuts are made, the surgeon will use a test implant to make sure they've selected the appropriate size and that the knee will flex and extend properly with the implant in place.
Once the size is confirmed, the surgeon will then install the femur cap and tibial cap, as well as the cartilage replacement piece permanently. Once again, the surgeon tests the fit and stability of the new knee, and closes the incision.
Step 7: Post-op and rehab
Once the patient leaves the hospital, active physical therapy begins. The patient will often have physical therapy several times a week for one to two months. Physical therapy often includes things such as range-of-motion and strengthening exercises designed to improve knee flexibility.
Soledad O'Brien: ACL is doing fine, thanks
Patients with successful knee replacements often go on to be more mobile and agile than they were before surgery. Even so, high-impact activities like running and contact sports are usually discouraged for knee replacement patients.
As for Gray, her surgery was a great success, and though rehab was difficult, she says overall she's glad she did it.
"It's a whole lot better."


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Via the Examiner, I'd call this a case study in effective damage control but that presupposes that an unscripted sip of water during a speech constitutes "damage," and I can't bring myself to believe that our frivolous political culture has yet reached that depth. There are three things going on in the media frenzy over this. First, Karl's right, of course:
The Rubio water bottle story is a prime example of the MSM's desire to cover anything but good news for the GOP. (1/2)
— Just Karl (@justkarl) February 13, 2013
MSM will blame Rubio water bottle coverage on "consumer demand." But *most* media don't run verticals on LOLCats and sideboob. It's on them.
— Just Karl (@justkarl) February 13, 2013
Hyperventilating over an awkward moment in a good speech is a way to cast a pall of ridiculousness over the whole thing. Rubio's biggest political talent is his communication skills, the proof of which you're seeing this morning in his sustained effort to win over people by laughing along at the water meme. If you're eager to neutralize those skills by building a larger not-ready-for-prime-time narrative, then yeah, frenetic mockery of a sip of water will come naturally to you.
But it's not just lefty media that's interested in this. Stephanopoulos saved a question about the water until the end of his interview with Rubio this morning but Fox & Friends started off with it. Why? This is spot on, I think:
Honestly, the FREAKOUT over the water-bottle thing, like the Super Bowl blackout, shows a ravenous appetite for ANYTHING unchoreographed.
— Linda Holmes (@nprmonkeysee) February 13, 2013
Yup. The more ubiquitous media becomes, the more inured the average viewer becomes to the conventions of polished media presentations, which gives every rare unscripted moment a charge of daring and excitement. We're reaching the point where, if a curl of hair had fallen down onto Rubio's forehead during the speech and he'd brushed it back with his hand, that would be a meme today. So programmatic is modern politics with talking points and messaging that taking a sip of water when your mouth is dry practically qualifies as a "gaffe." It's soul-crushing, which partly explains why a guy like Christie who often does seem to wander off script can be so captivating.
Finally, some of the reaction here is due simply to the tedium of the endless Obama/GOP ideological death struggle. You've got a huge chunk of low-information voters watching and tweeting during the SOTU; they don't follow politics day to day so it's hard for them to gauge which side's lying and which is telling the truth, but everyone can have an opinion about whether Rubio looked goofy reaching for that Poland Springs. Political professionals, meanwhile, have heard it all before. As noted last night, even Obama's media fanboys were expecting a rote, forgettable recitation of the White House's policy wishlist; conservatives were more upbeat about Rubio's big debut but no one on our side was surprised by his message either. When political junkies get bored, they're going to look for a shiny object to play with, replete with all the same dumb, predictable jokes you know and hate. Somehow, drinking water has now achieved shiny-object status.
Update: If you think Karl and I are exaggerating on the first point, read this.


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Take the Male Eyebrow Pledge and Save American Masculinity
Say it with me, men: "I am proud of my eyebrows. There are many like them, but these eyebrows are mine. I pledge not to pay money to somebody in what is basically a salon (no matter what ridiculous name they may give it) to fuck with my eyebrows. If they get really out of control, well, that's what clippers are for."
There. Doesn't that feel better? You've done your part for American manhood. Unlike some people.
"Men used to be so afraid to walk in the store because they thought this was a woman's treatment," said Ms. Soare, whose male eyebrow clients include Ryan Seacrest and David Beckham.


text:
Suspense's "The Fountain Plays" was adapted from the 1933 short story by Dorothy L. Sayers. The original text can be found in Hangman's Holiday (1933) or Dorothy L. Sayers: The Complete Stories (2003). The radio adaptation added a few things to flesh out this short story for a half hour program. Nevertheless, the overall adaptation and dramatization are interesting.
As the episode opens, Mr. Archie Spiller is hosting a small party at his home. He stands in front of the new water fountain in his garden with Mr. Gooch, one of his guests. Mr. Spiller is enchanted with ornamental water, but Mr. Gooch thinks it is a waste of money. Mr. Gooch wants to discuss other things, but soon, the other guests arrive and interrupt their discussion.
As the evening progresses, Mr. Gooch drinks heavily and becomes even more disagreeable. Mr. Spiller's daughter can't understand why he puts up with being treated so badly by his own guest. No matter how unpleasant Mr. Gooch is, Mr. Spiller brushes it off.
At the end of the night, after everyone else has gone to bed, Mr. Gooch becomes even more unpleasant and demanding. This time, Mr. Spiller reacts differently, and the problem of Mr. Gooch...is suddenly gone.
He is, however, soon replaced by an entirely new problem.
"The Fountain Plays" was adapted for radio by Robert L. Richards, directed by Ted Bliss, and produced by William Spier. Edmund Gwenn starred. Also appearing were Dennis Hoey, Wendy Barrie, and Ian Wolfe. This episode aired on August 10, 1943.
. Download Suspense_1943-08-10_The_Fountain_Plays_wEdmundGwenn UPGRADE-2-OTRR 2
Suspense presented this story a second time on November 23, 1944. Charles Laughton starred as Mr. Spiller. Dennis Hoey again played Mr. Gooch. Also appearing were Norma Varden and Ian Wolfe. William Spier produced and directed.
. Download Suspense_1944-11-23_TheFountainPlays_wCharlesLaughton UPGRADE-OTRR 2
(Image of first edition of Hangman's Holiday from Wikipedia)