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Flourish by Martin Seligman: book summary
Flourish, the new book by Martin Seligman (full title: "Flourish – A Visionary New Understanding of Happiness and Well-being") starts with a big committment: "This book will help you flourish." And ends (spoiler!) with a challenging goal, PERMA 51: the commitment to facilitate flourishing in 51% of the people of the world by year 2051. In between, you get an inspiring overview of what Positive Psychology has accomplished, and how.
Flourish is Martin Seligman's first book in ten years. Previously, the goal of psychology has been to relieve human suffering, but the goal of the Positive Psychology movement, initiated by Dr. Martin Seligman fifteen years ago, is about raising the bar for the human condition. In Flourish, Martin Seligman refines the scope of Positive Psychology: happiness alone doesn't give life meaning. In this book, well-being takes the leading role, and Happiness is described as one of the five pillars of Positive Psychology.
In Flourish, Martin Seligman addresses what enables us to cultivate talents, to build deep, lasting relationships with others, to feel pleasure, and to contribute meaningfully to the world. In a word, what allows us to flourish, which he summarizes it with PERMA:
– Positive Emotion
– Engagement
– Relationships
– Meaning
– Accomplishment
According to Martin Seligman's research, these are the permanent building blocks for a life of profound fulfillment.
Flourish builds on his previous publications which include:
* Seligman, Martin E. P. (1975). Helplessness: On Depression, Development, and Death. San Francisco: W.H. Freeman. ISBN 0-7167-0752-7 (Paperback reprint edition, W.H. Freeman, 1992, ISBN 0-7167-2328-X)
* Seligman, Martin E. P. (1991). Learned Optimism: How to Change Your Mind and Your Life. New York: Knopf. ISBN 0-671-01911-2 (Paperback reprint edition, Penguin Books, 1998; reissue edition, Free Press, 1998)
* Seligman, Martin E. P. (1993). What You Can Change and What You Can't: The Complete Guide to Successful Self-Improvement. New York: Knopf. ISBN 0-679-41024-4 (Paperback reprint edition, Ballantine Books, 1995, ISBN 0-449-90971-9)
* Seligman, Martin E. P. (1996). The Optimistic Child: Proven Program to Safeguard Children from Depression & Build Lifelong Resilience. New York: Houghton Mifflin. (Paperback edition, Harper Paperbacks, 1996, ISBN 0-06-097709-4)
* Seligman, Martin E. P. (2002). Authentic Happiness: Using the New Positive Psychology to Realize Your Potential for Lasting Fulfillment. New York: Free Press. ISBN 0-7432-2297-0 (Paperback edition, Free Press, 2004, ISBN 0-7432-2298-9)
* Seligman, Martin E. P. (2004). '"Can Happiness be Taught?". Daedalus, Spring 2004.
* Peterson, Christopher, & Seligman, Martin E. P. (2004). Character Strengths and Virtues. Oxford: Oxford University Press. ISBN 987-0-19-516701-6
* Seligman, Martin E. P. (2011). Flourish: A Visionary New Understanding of Happiness and Well-being. New York: Free Press. ISBN 978-1-4391-9075-3
Flourish by Martin Seligman: book reviews
"It would be unfair not to praise some of the good work Seligman highlights in Flourish. He draws attention to poor evidence for the benefits of psychiatric drugs and also suggests some behavioural changes and strategies that, if used wisely, can be very helpful, such as learning to respond more actively and constructively to what friends, family and colleagues say".
Julian Baggini on The Financial Times
His writing reflects his brilliance in clear and understandable terms. Martin Seligman continues to have a powerful, positive effect on individuals and societies, and I believe that Flourish will have a powerful, positive effect on you.
Christine Duvivier on PositivePsychologyNews.com
Flourish by Martin Seligman: praise
"Brilliant, beautiful, useful, and true. How many books can you say that about? Well, you can say it for sure about Flourish. Written by a master of research as well as a thoroughly joyful man, Flourish will allow you to flourish if you simply read the book and follow its sane, sage, ground-breaking advice".
— Edward Hallowell, M.D., author of Shine: Using Brain Science to Bring the Best from Your People
"If you liked Authentic Happiness, you will like Flourish ten times more. This book is bound to be not only a source of knowledge, but a fount of inspiration."
— Sonja Lyubomirsky, author of The How of Happiness: A Scientific Approach to Getting the Life You Want
"A compelling view of a positive human future, for individuals, corporations, and nations, brilliantly told."
— Tony Hsieh, author of Delivering Happiness
More praise for Flourish by Martin Seligman can be found on: http://books.simonandschuster.com/Flourish/Martin-E-P-Seligman/9781439190753
Flourish by Martin Seligman: book reviews
In his new book, he sets out to expand the concepts outlined in his 2002 book Authentic Happiness. The earlier book described happiness as a combination of positive emotions, "flow," and meaning. In his new book, Seligman adds two more elements he considers critical: accomplishment and personal relationships. Together, these elements add up to well-being. Mix in some some self-esteem, resilience, and optimism, and you get flourishing.
— Dennis Whittle, Huffingtonpost.com
More book reviews for Flourish by Martin Seligman can be found on: http://books.simonandschuster.com/Flourish/Martin-E-P-Seligman/9781439190753
Flourish by Martin Seligman: book covers and Martin Seligman pictures
Flourish: interview with Martin Seligman
Maia Szalavitz: You are one of the founders of "positive psychology" and yet you say in your new book that focusing solely on the positive emotion of happiness as a foundation for a good life isn't enough. What do you mean?
Martin Seligman: Happiness or subjective well-being is just one of the ends we want in life. We asked the question, "What else do we choose to do, what else north of indifference is there, for people who are free, that they might do for its own sake?"
I argue that happiness is only one of five [free motivations]: we also do things for meaning and purpose, even if that brings no happiness. I've met people who said that Mother Teresa was a miserable cuss — she did her work even if it brought no smiles and satisfaction.
Another [motivation] is engagement — that's the [experience] of being totally engaged in what you're doing, which blocks out all other feeling and thinking. We also want relationships, even if they bring none of the other experiences. And, finally kicking and screaming, I got dragged into [accepting that the last one] is winning or accomplishment.
[We abbreviate it as PERMA.] P is positive emotion, E is engagement, R is relationships, M is meaning and A is accomplishment. Those are the five elements of what free people chose to do. Pretty much everything else is in service of one of or more of these goals. That's the human dashboard.
Maia Szalavitz: So what can we do to get more PERMA?
Martin Seligman: If you have people recognize the catastrophic thoughts that [arise] when they encounter a situation they don't like, and [give them ways to] realistically argue against them, you can systematically move pessimism into optimism. With long-term follow-up, we see that doing so prevents depression.
It's very much like cognitive therapy. I think the mechanism of action seems to be changing hopelessness into hope, teaching people to recognize their most catastrophic thoughts and realistically argue against them.
If you have people every night write down three things that went well that day [and examine why], six months later people have [more happiness and less depression].
On the relationship side, if you teach people to respond actively and constructively when someone they care about has a victory, it increases love and friendship and decreases the probability of depression.
If your spouse comes home and she has been promoted, it's a bad idea to say, "You know what tax bracket that will put us into?" as opposed to, "Let's relive it! What did your boss say and why do you think you got the promotion?"
There are now about 12 to 18 exercises in the PERMA literature that are documented to increase [flourishing]. It's important that you actually do these exercises, [rather than just think about doing them]. Some of the exercises are cognitive, like thinking about three things that went well today. Others are more about doing, things like actually making a "gratitude visit" [seeking out and thanking people for what they've done in your life] or being active and constructive with people you love. It's not just head stuff, it's also action.
You can read Martin Seligman's Flourish interview with Maia Szalavitz on: http://healthland.time.com/2011/05/13/mind-reading-positive-psychologist-martin-seligman-on-the-good-life/
Flourish by Martin Seligman: videos
Martin Seligman on Flourishing, Public Policy and the Army
Audiobook: Flourish: A Visionary New Understanding of Happiness and Well-being by Martin


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Cupids and Wardrobe Malfunctions
- Discontinued
- Published By: eXtasy Books
- Author: Jackie Nacht
- Page: 52
- Word Count: 11975
- Publication Date: January 6, 2013
- Heat Level:
- Available Formats: Adobe Acrobat, Epub, Hiebook, Microsoft Reader, Mobipocket, Mobipocket (.mobi), Palm DOC/iSolo, Rocket, Sony PDF
- Categories: Contemporary, Erotic Romance , Gay, GLBTQIA
Cooper from Bewitched at the Pumpkin Patch is back and is now having his own holiday hell.
Cooper is one of the happiest guys around, except for the last month. He's been crushing on the assistant in the training room, Derek Kent, but when he goes to ask him out, Derek instead pledges the fraternity. Cooper doesn't want him to become a target, so he tries to wait his attraction out.
Now it's time for Cooper to be in charge of the fraternity's annual Valentine's date party. He knows he's going to have to make sure the kegs are filled, the music works, no fights break out, and keep the fourteen pledges in line. However, it's hard for him to keep his mind on his job when he sees Derek coming into the party wearing nothing but Cupid's wings and boxer briefs. Cooper knows as an active member he shouldn't touch the pledge, however, every man has his breaking point. Will this be his?
Authors Note: This book may be read as a stand-alone story but for better reading enjoyment, you may want to read secondary characters, Hayden and Lawson's story in Bewitched at the Pumpkin Patch.

subset: commoncrawl


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Israel blames Hamas for keeping shut Gaza crossing
Associated Press – 11 hrs ago
JERUSALEM (AP) — An Israeli military spokesman says the militant Islamic group Hamas has pressured a Palestinian contractor into keeping closed the Gaza side of the only cargo crossing with Israel.
Maj. Guy Inbar says the crossing was set to open on Monday but the Palestinian operator of the crossing said he wouldn't come to work.
Inbar says Hamas wants control of the crossing, operated by its rival, the secular Palestinian Authority that governs the West Bank. There was no comment from Hamas.
The Kerem Shalom crossing was closed for a week after Gaza militants fired a rocket at the Israeli city of Ashkelon. The crossing is an economic lifeline for the territory's impoverished 1.6 million Palestinians, providing the vast majority of consumer goods.
Inbar says 70 trucks were waiting to enter Gaza.


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Iran Judiciary Confirms Stoning of Jafar Kiani
Dr. Alireza Jamshidi, the Iranian Judiciary spokesman, announced in a press briefing held on 10 July 2007, that the stoning of Jafar Kiani had indeed taken place but the stoning of his partner, Mokarrameh Ebrahimi, is stayed. Jamshidi contrasted the supposed legality of the Kiani case with another case in Takistan. The Kiani case was legal supposedly because it had been confirmed by the Supreme Court: "Lately there has been a stoning sentence executed by a judge in Takistan branch, but in the judiciary branch there was not supposed to have such sentences executed this way and the ban order issued by the Head of Judiciary is to ensure appropriate caution by the judges in issuing and executing such sentences. But in this case since the sentence had been confirmed [by the Supreme Court] it was executed, but the woman's sentence is stayed now." The spokesman also discussed how judges can continue to issue such sentences despite the 2002 moratorium: The judiciary spokesman stated, "The extent to which the ban order can deprive a judge from independence is a long discussion, but a judge can act independently, although with the order of the Head of Judiciary, it is necessary to exercise more caution in issuing and executing these sentences." He added: "The judiciary policy in these cases is derived from the law and shariah, that is why a [stoning sentence] has been issued and executed in very few and rare cases."


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Konica Minolta Maxxum 7D
Incorporating a Leica 3x optical zoom lens and a 4-megapixel resolution, the Panasonic DMC-LC70 offers professional optics in a classically styled camera at an affordable price. The DMC-LC70 also features several automated scene modes and video capture with sound. It is considerably more compact and 2 ounces lighter than its predecessor, the Lumix DMC-LC43.
Optics and Resolution
The DMC-LC70 captures 4-megapixel images up to 2304 x 1728 pixels for poster-size print enlargements. Other resolution modes include 1600 x 1200, 1280 x 960, and 640 x 480. The 3x optical zoom is joined by a 3x digital zoom for a 9x total zoom.
Like all Panasonic Lumix digital cameras, the DMC-LC70 is equipped with a lens made by Leica, manufacturer of precision optical technologies. The top compact lens in the world-renowned Leica family, the DC Vario-Elmarit lens combines comfortably small size with superb image rendering. Its features include:
- Seven elements in six groups
- 3x zoom lens system is equivalent to a 35mm to 105mm lens
- Three aspherical lenses
- F2.8-F4.9 brightness
- Focal distance of 5.8mm to 17.4mm
- Multi-coating technology minimizes ghosting caused by excessive light
- Fast shutter speeds
Movie Mode
In addition to taking still photos, the DMC-LC70 can also record 320 x 240 movie clips at 10 frames per second with audio. Your video length is limited only by the size of your memory card.
More Features
The Mega Burst Imaging function allows you to take consecutive pictures at an incredible quick rate, making it perfect for capturing fast-moving objects in high resolution. The DMC-LC70 captures up to 8 consecutive images in standard mode (at either 3.5 or 2 frames per second) or 5 images in fine mode. You can then view your shots on the camera's LCD screen to choose the shot you want and delete the rest.
The Lumix DMC-LC70 features a Mode Dial that gives you a variety of settings to choose from to help give you the best shot possible based on your shooting environment. Modes include simple, normal picture, economy, macro, portrait, landscape, night portrait, and moving image.
The Venus Engine LSI generates the luminance signal of the primary color CCD using all three colors (red, green, blue) for improved diagonal image resolution, compared to conventional CCDs that use only one color (green) to do so, resulting in rich, expressive images. This LSI also handles image processing, LCD functions, and writing to the memory card concurrently, for an overall quick camera response.
Other features include:
- 1.5-inch LCD screen (114k pixels) and optical viewfinder
- Built-in flash with auto, red-eye reduction, slow synchro, and forced on/off modes
- ISO sensitivity: Auto, 50, 100, 200, and 400
- White balance modes: Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Halogen, and White Set
- Self timer of 10 and 2 seconds
Storage and Transfer
Images can be stored on the included 16 MB Secure Digital memory card; the DMC-LC70 is also compatible with MultiMedia (MMC) cards. Images can be downloaded to either a Mac or PC via ultra-fast USB 1.1, which means it can be connected to any USB-compatible Windows Me/2000/XP and Mac OS 8.6 or later computer without installing any software.
Power and Size
The camera is powered by 2 AA batteries (alkalines included, rechargeable NiMH batteries recommended). Using alkaline batteries, you should expect the battery to capture approximately 200 shots with the LCD on. It measures 3.44 by 2.57 by 1.39 inches (W x H x D) and weighs 5.6 ounces (excluding batteries).
What's in the Box
This package includes the Lumix DMC-LC70 digital camera, 16 MB Secure Digital card, 2 AA batteries, USB and A/V cables, and strap. The CD-ROM includes SD Viewer for DSC and Ulead Photo Explorer software.


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source: seandereilinger
We love the idea of using Christmas break as a time to "train" your kids. I wrote about sleep training my daughter during Christmas break in December's article "Sleep Tight." Whether you're sleep training, potty training, moving your kid to a big-boy bed, or training your kids to eat something other than chicken nuggets, setting aside a dedicated time to do it is a great way to make sure you end up with a fully-trained (or at least mostly trained) kid.
Here are six tips to make sure your Christmas break training is a success.
- Read up on the strategies. Before you even think about training your kid to do anything, check out a couple books from the library or ask good ole' Mr. Google what other parents have done right … and wrong.
- Know your kid. You know what makes your kid tick, and you know how he is going to respond to the training, so trust your instincts and come up with a plan that works for you and your family.
- Write down your plan. If you're sleep training, write down who is going to get up when and under what circumstances. If you're potty training, plan how you're going to do it and decide who is on "potty" duty when.
- Get your supplies. Make sure you've stocked up on everything you need—stickers, books, caffeinated beverages for you—before the break starts.
- Talk it up. Start talking about how excited you are about training early on. Trust us: If you're excited about it, your kid will be excited about it.
- Don't let setbacks get you down. There are always accidents. You will have setbacks, and that's okay. Tomorrow is a new day.
Erin MacPherson is an author, blogger, and mom to three preschoolers. She blogs at www.christianmamasguide.com.


text: Back Preventing Skin Cancer Prevention of skin cancer The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) has declared war on skin cancer by recommending these three preventive steps: Wear protective clothing, including a hat with a wide brim and sunglasses.Apply sunscreen all over your body and avoid the midday sun from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.Regularly use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher, even on cloudy days. The following six steps have been recommended by the AAD and the Skin Cancer Foundation to help reduce the risk of sunburn and skin cancer. Minimize exposure to the sun at midday - between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Apply sunscreen, with at least an SPF-30 or higher that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, to all areas of the body that are exposed to the sun. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, even on cloudy days. Reapply after swimming or perspiring. Wear clothing that covers the body and shades the face. Hats should provide shade for both the face and back of the neck. Wearing sunglasses will reduce the amount of rays reaching the eye, and protecting the lids of our eyes as well as the lens. Avoid exposure to UV radiation from sunlamps or tanning parlors. Protect children. Keep them from excessive sun exposure when the sun is strongest (between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.), and apply sunscreen liberally and frequently to children 6 months of age and older.The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) approves of the use of sunscreen on infants younger than 6 months old if adequate clothing and shade are not available. Parents should still try to avoid sun exposure and dress the infant in lightweight clothing that covers most surface areas of skin. However, parents also may apply a minimal amount of sunscreen to the infant's face and back of the hands. Remember, sand and pavement reflect UV rays even under the umbrella. Snow is also a particularly good reflector of UV rays. Reflective surfaces can reflect up to 80 percent of the damaging sun rays.


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Lukey moves on.
- October 2, 2006
- filed under Mayor Ravenstahl, Uncategorized
I think we've found Lukey's very own "Redd Up".
- "I think it's important to note that there are some fresh faces there that can apply some new thinking and move this city forward," he said Friday.
- "Let's go to work, Pittsburgh, for there is much work to be done and we have the right team to do the job, to move Pittsburgh forward."
- "It is something they need to do to move this city forward," he said.
- Ravenstahl recalled, "I was in that procession and many Pittsburghers at that point recognized me and offered words of encouragement 'Luke we're behind you, it's gonna be okay, good luck, we're gonna continue to move forward.'
- In a written statement, Ravenstahl congratulated Shields and said he looked forward to working with him "to continue to move the city of Pittsburgh forward."
- "We have the right team in place to get the job done, to move Pittsburgh forward," he said.
- "We now can talk nationwide about Pittsburgh moving forward, some of the great things that are happening here, and to be a young voice in that process is something I look forward to," he told CNN's Betty Nguyen shortly before 3 p.m. yesterday.
So apparently, Dick Skrinjar, Mayor Ravenstahl's Chief of Making Shit Up has given Lukey talking points that basically amount to one 3 by 5 postcard with the words "MOVE FORWARD" printed in a Sharpie.
20 bucks says that when the election finally happens, Lukey's election slogan will be "Luke Ravenstahl: Moving Pittsburgh Forward."
11 Comments
October 2, 2006 1:53 pm
How can he say we're moving forward when he still has all those hacks on his staff?
We must move forward, not backward, upward, not forward, and twirling, always twirling toward freedom.
October 2, 2006 2:12 pm
Bob — Jinx! You owe me a coke.
October 2, 2006 3:53 pm
I like going in circles, therefore i am moving but not getting anywhere.
Judge Rufus Peckham
October 2, 2006 4:12 pm
I'd much prefer to move backward, to when David Lawrence was mayor. I'd even take Pete Flaherty or Richard Caliguiri.
Matt H
October 2, 2006 4:15 pm
And what hacks are you talking about? Last time I checked there were none.
Hacks? Did someone say hacks? How did O'Connor's former driver become Public Safety Director? What is his background in this area???
October 3, 2006 5:02 pm
It might be a good fit. I'll bet he has a background in this area…or should I say a criminal background?
October 9, 2006 6:05 pm
who is this matt h. and why is he defending the hacks who work for the city?
Pingback: The Burgh Blog » That Luke Ravenstahl is one smart bastard.


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If you've read the reader mailbags for a while, you've noticed that I often get messages from people who have worked their way into a good financial place and now have some money to invest, often for the first time in their life.
They look around, watch CNBC, read investment advice online and in books, and still aren't sure exactly what to do. Should they keep the money in cash, or buy a CD from the bank? Should they invest in stocks, and if so, should they buy individual stocks or put money in a mutual fund? What about bonds? What about real estate?
The options seem overwhelming, as do the potential risks and rewards. I'm going to offer a few ideas that I've learned over the years that will help anyone that's just starting to invest.
First of all, there is nothing that will guarantee you a great return. If anyone is guaranteeing you a large return – and by large, I mean more than a couple percentage points higher than what you're getting in a savings account – be very, very wary. Such investments usually have some sort of giant drawback, like losing all access to your balance for a very long period, hidden and/or extensive costs, or hidden risks that aren't being directly revealed. Leave such "too good to be true" investments for people who are actually skilled investors – and they probably won't be investing either.
Instead, most investments beyond a savings account or a CD offer potentially strong gains coupled with risk. That's just part of the equation. What usually happens is that the better the estimated returns on an investment, the greater the risk.
Let me spell it out for you in detail using a specific example. The Vanguard 500 is a long-established index fund that essentially invests in 500 of the largest publicly traded companies in the United States. If you look at the returns on this fund, you'll see that (for the quarter ending June 30, 2010) money invested in the fund has earned 14.33% over the previous year. That's a very nice return.
At the same time, though, money invested in the fund has earned an average of -9.84% the last three years. Yes, each year (on average), an investor has lost almost 10% over the past three. Even over ten years, the average is -1.67%. Over the lifetime of the fund, though (since the mid-1970s), money in the fund has returned an average of 10.10% per year.
So what does that mean for you? It means that over the course of some years, you'll have a 15% positive return. Other years will have a -30% return. Over some decades, it'll average out to a nice positive – 10% or so. Over other decades, like the '00s that had two economic downturns, it'll average out to a very low positive or even a negative.
Sometimes you can afford that kind of risk. If you're many, many years from your goal, that kind of risk is fine. If you're 25 and investing for retirement, you're going to get enough great years between now and retirement that you're pretty likely to make up for the losses of the bad years. The key is to just ignore the year-to-year losses and gains and just be patient.
However, if you're closer to your goal, you can't afford that kind of risk. If you're saving for a goal that's going to happen in five years and you need to have the balance you've already saved up, you're making a big mistake to put it at this kind of risk. You need to keep it safe, even if you're losing the potential to have a big year.
You also have to look at your debts in comparison. Right now is a great time to pay down debt. Why? The "return" you get from debt repayments is equal to the interest on that debt. So, if you have a debt that's costing you 8% interest, an early payment on that debt essentially earns a guaranteed 8% return. Why? If your balance is lower (and that's what an early payment does), the lower balance will generate that much less interest that you'll have to pay. It's important to note, of course, that actually acquiring new debt is really, really bad – I'm looking at debts here as water under the bridge and merely a problem to be solved.
Also, you can never, ever have too much money put away for retirement. It is never bad to over-save for retirement, because you can always use that money during the early years of your retirement for whatever things are most important to you knowing that you're secure for life.
Thus, here would be my very general suggestions for someone with a chunk of money to invest.
The first thing I would do is aim for debt freedom. Why? Paying ahead on debts is probably the best stable investment that people have right now. Get rid of your debts – all of them.
If you're debt free, I'd sit down and look at my life goals. Are there any big goals that I want to achieve in my life? Am I going to buy a house? Do I want to start a business, or launch a new career? Maybe you're really happy with how things are right now. If you have a strong overriding goal, keep the money in savings and have it help you reach that goal a lot sooner. Most likely, the goal will be short term enough that you shouldn't put it into stocks or other risky investments, for the reasons discussed above.
If you don't have an obvious overriding goal, open up a Roth IRA and put the money in there. A Roth IRA is a simple retirement account that anyone can open – you just sign up for one with an investment house like Vanguard, much like signing up for a savings account at a bank. You put money in the account from your checking account, then tell the investment house how you want the money in the account to be invested. The best option for most investors is a Target Retirement fund that matches your estimated retirement date. You can contribute $5,000 a year to a Roth IRA – if you have more than that, put it in a savings account and make contributions each year.
There are two things that people virtually never regret: freedom from debt and plenty of money saved for retirement. If you have money just sitting around, you've got two good things to do with it, right there.
A final tip: read. Pick up a well-regarded book on investing (here's my pick) and read it at your own pace. Go slow and make sure you understand every sentence. Use Wikipedia and Google to help you understand terms. This is perhaps the best thing you can possibly do with your time as a beginning investor.


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~ There is some great information, but don't overlook speaking to a lender as soon as you are thinking about looking for a home. They will be able to guide you as well ~
The most accurate way to calculate how much home you can afford
The American dream of buying a home can end up being a nightmare if you buy too much house. To avoid being house poor, it's crucial to calculate how much house you can really afford. Check out the video above for a simple roadmap that can help guide you through the process.
Follow the 28/36 rule
This is the income ratio that mortgage lenders use to determine your loan on the front end. Twenty-eight percent of your monthly gross income is what you should spend for all your housing expenses. This includes your mortgage payment, taxes, and insurance. For example, if you make $7,000 a month before taxes, 28% of that is $1,960. Your home should not cost you more than this per month.
"If you want to be comfortable and not feel strapped, it's important to make sure your debts are in this range. Because after buying a home, there's always more money to be spent on other expenses that are bound to come up like fixing something or buying things to fill up the space," says Eric Rogers, a financial planner and founder of Beyond Your Hammock.
On the back end, the 36% refers to your total debt compared to your income. So add up all your monthly debt payments including credit card, students loans, car loans, alimony or child support. Even if your total debt is over 36%, it shouldn't completely deter you from buying a home, says Scott Nadler, a mortgage specialist at Loan Depot.
Most lenders will go beyond the 36%, even up to 50%, but that's definitely riskier, says Nadler. "But there are tax advantages for home ownership and it could be a wise investment, so take a look at your overall financial picture with an advisor to see if home ownership can benefit you."
Make a list of everything you own
List all your assets including savings, investments, real estate, personal property like your car, and your retirement funds.
It's not just enough to have money for a down payment – you'll also need thousands for closing costs and fees. Ask your real estate agent to break down all the fees and provide a timeline so you can get a clear snapshot of what you're responsible for and when.
On top of that, you'll need a few months of cash reserves to be able to pay for your house after you've bought it.
With some homes you might have to show that you have 12 to 24 months of housing payments in reserves. "But for your own safety, while the bank might give you a mortgage with only with 2 months in reserves, you should think about having at least 3 to 6 months," advises Barry Habib, a mortgage expert and CEO of MBS Highway. Because what if you lose your job or have to stop working because of your health? Your bills certainly won't go away even if you want to stay.
Your down payment
Putting down 20% is best. Any less than that and you'll have to pay for additional private mortgage insurance – that protects the lender in case you default on your loan. But you'll only have to pay the PMI until you have 20% equity in your home.
Remember, the higher your credit score, the lower your interest rate will be. If your score is 720 or above, you're in great shape to secure a competitive rate. A score of 680 and 700 is decent, but get below 660 and it gets a little tricky.
So the moment you start thinking about buying a home, start tracking your credit score monthly or even weekly – it's free and it explains why your score is what it is. If you're behind on payments, it lists them. If you're using up too much of your available credit, it breaks that down. This way, you can work on getting your score as high as possible when it's time to get that loan.


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Crafted With Precision
Shell consists of an innovative composition with plastic and up to 25% pine wood fibers. The Fiber Chair family is partly made from a natural material - variations in color can occur.
Cleaning instructions
Clean with a moist cloth. If necessary use a little dish soap on the cloth. For upholstery versions, please find cleaning instructions for your chosen textile at kvadrat.dk For leather upholstery versions, clean the leather with a dry cloth regularly. Treat the leather at least four times a year, using only special leather treatment products for anilinee leather.


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Chippendales Tickets and Show Dates
If you are looking for Chippendales tickets at discount prices then you have come to the right place. Vivid Seats has a large inventory of Broadway musical tickets that are bound to have you in quality seats in no time. To purchase your Chippendales tickets, click on the show dates above. Choose your seats from venue seating charts and enter in your payment information. After that, you are finished and the rest of the work is up to us. Vivid Seats 100% guarantees that your information will be kept safe in our secure server, your musical tickets will be authentic, and your tickets will be delivered to you before the performance begins. Vivid Seats also offers updated musical ticket information and theater ticket information to keep you informed with the latest news in performing arts. If you do not initially see the Chippendales tickets you want remember to check back often as our inventory is always updating. If you would like more Chippendales ticket information or if you have any questions regarding your order, please give us a call at: 866-848-8499. We want you to feel confident in purchasing all your tickets through us and we are always ready to answer any questions you may have.


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About Dream Weaver Carpet
Our founder, Bob Shaw, doesn't do things halfway
When he set out to reimagine the carpet industry, he did so with the intent of creating the best possible product. People love carpet and that it will always have a place in their homes. Our single focus is to provide the highest quality carpet possible at a great value.


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Hi My name is Bella I don't have a family , I'm in...
Two Singer's One Love(a harry styles fan fic)135264
- by Emily_grace_7
- Rating:
- Published: 7 Feb 2014
- Updated: 7 May 2014
- Status: In Progress
Will singer Marie Celece Connors fall in love with singer Harry Styles? I guess you'll have to read to find out.
Join MovellasFind out what all the buzz is about. Join now to start sharing your creativity and passion
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Is Photography Dead? A History From Early Cameras to Instagram [INFOGRAPHIC]
Photography experienced something of a renaissance when smartphones came along. Far from being dead, apps such as Instagram rejuvenated the art form.
An infographic by Overgram [iTunes link], an app that adds text to Instagram photos, details the evolution of photography from its birth in 1826 to modern-day usage on social networks.
Some interesting tidbits include: Facebook has 10,000 times more photos than the Library of Congress, photos make up 42% of posts on Tumblr and 741 million mobile phones worldwide have "some type of photo capability." For more on the history of photography, check out the entire infographic, below.
What do you use to take photos? Tell us in the comments below.


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Roth IRAs for Kids
Children with earned income can start start saving for retirement with one of these tax-advantaged accounts.
My 16-year-old daughter earned money this year by teaching piano lessons to younger children. Can she set up a Roth IRA? Any suggestions where?
Yes, children of any age who have earned income from a job can contribute to a Roth IRA. Investment income doesn't count and neither does an allowance. Keep good records of her earnings, including a log of the dates and hours she worked, who paid her, and how much.
A Roth IRA is a powerful tool that can leverage small contributions and decades of tax-free growth into a sizable stash of tax-free money in retirement. Plus, Roth IRA owners can withdraw their contributions (but not their earnings) at any time without paying taxes or penalties.
Your daughter can contribute up $5,000 to a Roth IRA for 2010 (or up to the amount she earned for the year, if it is less than that), and she has until April 18, 2011, to make her 2010 contribution. And while your daughter may not want to part with all of her earnings, you can make up the difference. It doesn't matter who contributes to her IRA, as long as it doesn't exceed her earnings for the year. And money destined for an Roth IRA contribution can make a great holiday gift from parents and grandparents.
Some brokerage firms and mutual fund companies are more willing than others to open Roth IRAs for minors. You may want to contact the firms where you already have accounts, which could give you a break on fees.
TD Ameritrade offers IRAs for minors with no investment minimums or annual fees. The IRA can invest in anything available in TD Ameritrade's brokerage accounts, including more than 100 commission-free exchange-traded funds. There is a special form for IRAs for minors, similar to a custodial account, which lists the information for both the teenager and the parents.
Scottrade offers IRAs for minors with no annual fees or set-up costs, and a minimum investment of $500 for new accounts. A parent or guardian must act as a custodian for the account until the minor reaches the age of majority. When filling out the forms for a custodial IRA, the minor is considered the applicant and the parent (custodian) is the co-applicant.
Charles Schwab allows minors with earned income to open a Roth IRA with no fees and a minimum balance of $100. The account offers all of the benefits of a Schwab ONE brokerage account, with access to the advice and full range of investment options offered by Schwab.
Investors of any age can open an IRA at T. Rowe Price, but if they are under age 18, an "authorized person" over age 18 (usually a parent or guardian) must be designated to sign the IRA new-account form. The minimum initial investment is $1,000, which is waived if you sign up for a $50 monthly automatic asset builder. There is no set-up charge or annual fee for a mutual fund account with a balance of at least $5,000; or an individual with a balance of at least $50,000; or a household with a balance of at least $100,000 invested with T. Rowe Price. Otherwise, a $10 annual fee is charged.
A minor can establish an IRA at Vanguard as long as a parent or custodian signs the adoption agreement. The minimum initial investment is $3,000 for most funds, including the target-retirement funds; however, the investment minimum is just $1,000 for the STAR Fund (a fund-of-funds). There's a $20 annual fee for accounts with less than $10,000, which can be waived if the investor signs up for e-delivery of statements and reports.


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Podlachia (Polish: Podlaskie) [1] is a region in Poland.
Other destinations[edit]
In the early Middle Ages Podlaskie was disputed between the Kingdom of Poland, Ruthuania and Baltic tribes. After the Union between the Kingdom of Poland and the Duchy of Lithuania in 1385, Podlaskie became the central part of the Jagiellonian state with major trade routes from the Vistula towns to Vilnius crossing it. Beautiful Baroque palaces, churches and synagogues were built during the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. Besides Roman and Greek Catholics, Orthodox and Jews, also the Moslem Tatars settled here since the 17th century. After the Third Partition of Poland in 1795 most of its territory was annexed by Prussia and Russia, but partly became independent as part of the Duchy of Warsaw between 1807-1815. After the Congress of Vienna it became part of the Kingdom of Poland, ruled by the Russian Tsar, or directly part of the Russian empire. After World War I Podlaskie became part of the Second Polish Republic, but was occupied by Nazi-Germany and the Soviet Union between 1939 and 1944. After World War II it again became part of Poland. Nowerdays it is situated quite in the east of the country, although it used to be in the center between the two capitals Kraków and Vilnius during the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.
Get in[edit]
By plane[edit]
There is no international airport in Podlaskie. The nearest Airport is Warsaw's Frederic Chopin Airport (WAW). There are also airports in Lithuania, at Vilnius and Kaunas, that are closer to some parts of Podlaskie. There are train and bus connections to these airports from towns in Podlaskie, such as Augustow and Suwalki.
Get around[edit]
See[edit][add listing]
Do[edit][add listing]
Eat[edit][add listing]
Drink[edit][add listing]
Stay safe[edit]
Get out[edit]
Podlaskie boarders two other Polish voivodships
as well as Russia's Kaliningrad Oblast, Lithuania and Belarus.


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|For Sale To The Public At Large For Sale items must contain a price, and be owned by you and Pro Car related. All questions, price negotiations, etc., must be done by Private Message or eMail. Once sold, please make a final post indicating that. Posts may be removed after 30 days or at our discretion. Special Note, when doing business with others ask for references etc., Buyer and Sellers Beware, we hope each person is honest, however, buy and sell at your own risk.
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Cart is empty.
Dark Brown Bits (Moss)
Weight: 0.010 Kgs
Code: RLD013-1
A range of traditional and modern patterns tied with the highest quality hooks and materials in popular sizes for all your dry fly needs.
Brand:Frankie Mc Phillips
Detailed description
The flies in this website are a mixture of old traditional patterns, variants and new patterns many of which were invented by Frankie McPhillips. The use of correct colour blends of traditional Irish Dubbing in the dressings gives them an authenticity and uniqueness which, distinguishes them from other fly brands. Their quality is superb and this is continually monitored and checked by Frankie to ensure the highest standards.


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The San Francisco Giants just signed lefty starter Madison Bumgarner to a five-year, $35-million extension. 2011 was Bumgarner's first full season in the big leagues. He struck out 8.4 batters per nine innings and walked only two per nine. That's quite good. It is, as you might expect, far too early to say whether Bumgarner's contract will be a good one.
But we can note this: If you've been keeping track, you'll notice that Bumgarner's new deal fits into a recent trend. Since the end of last season, we've had extensions for Matt Moore, John Danks, Gio Gonzalez, Derek Holland, Cory Luebke, Jon Niese, and now Bumgarner, young lefties all. (Clayton Kershaw bought out two of his arbitration years, too.) It's almost easier to think of young left-handers that haven't gotten contract extensions. Although that too becomes a challenge. Jon Lester? Nope, he got one. Ricky Romero? Think again. Jaime Garcia? Surely you jest.
Essentially, the lone lefty wolves are Kershaw (a free agent after 2014), David Price (after 2015) and Cole Hamels (after 2012!), all of whom will earn enough money, barring injuries, to topple South American governments or buy fancy cars or whatever.
But might this lefty extension spree be a bad thing? Scocca wrote not so long ago about how the Orioles' hiring of Dan Duquette wasn't necessarily a bad thing. A retread GM, he argued, might stumble upon market inefficiency because he wouldn't chase the same things all the whiz kids had decided to chase. This is exhibit A—every team with a hotshot young lefty is signing its lefty to a guaranteed extension (with club options at the end, in most cases) to bring about some cost certainty.
How valuable is cost certainty, anyway? A team is supposed to milk its marginal value (cheap wins) from young players to subsidize its ill-advised veteran deals. All of the guaranteed money in extensions mitigates the bang the young lefty might bring for the team's buck. Sure, a team can avoid a terrifying, unpredictable arbitration award. But those don't come around often, and when they do, they reflect exceptional performance. (Which means that there were marginal wins in the previous season.) And presumably exceptional seasons come around just as often as disastrous injuries that render otherwise sharp young lefties useless and their contracts bloated.
It's, again, too early to know what will come of this recent parade of extensions. Over the next few years, we'll watch. And since MLB's fantasy bottomless cable-television revenues are funding all of the game's ill-advised big-money extensions, we'll be paying a bit more to watch, but we'll watch anyway.


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COUPLING INTRAVASCULAR SHEAR STRESS WITH ENDOLUMINAL IMPEDANCE TO DETECT PRE-ATHEROSCLEROSIS REGIONS by Juhyun Lee A Thesis Presented to the FACULTY OF THE USC VITERBI SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree MASTER OF SCIENCE (BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING) August 2012 Copyright 2012 Juhyun Lee
Object Description
|Coupling intravascular shear stress with endoluminal impedance to detect pre-atherosclerosis regions
|Lee, Juhyun
|Author email
|Master of Science
|Document type
|Degree program
|Biomedical Engineering
|Viterbi School of Engineering
|Date defended/completed
|Date submitted
|Date approved
|Restricted until
|Date published
|Advisor (committee chair)
|Hsiai, Tzung K.
|Advisor (committee member)
Shung, Kirk Koping
Yamashiro, Stanley M.
|Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States. Hemodynamic parameters such as spatial and temporal variations of wall shear stress are intimately linked with the development and progression of CAD. However, the real-time detection of pre-atherosclerotic regions with minimally invasive technology remains an unmet clinical challenge. Here, we sought to compare the changes in hemodynamic parameters in New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits fed on a normal diet (ND) and NZW rabbits fed a high-fat diet (HD). A convective heat transfer-based micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) sensor was deployed for measurement of intravascular hemodynamic parameters. Baseline measurements were taken from the descending aortic arch, thoracic, abdominal, and proximal to the renal arteries in NZW rabbits (n=4). Following 8 weeks of a high-fat (HD, n=2) and a normal diet (ND, n=2), intravascular measurements were repeated from the similar regions where baseline measurements were acquired. Experimental measurements were validated by the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation. To further assess endoluminal vascular oxidative stress in terms of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), we used concentric bipolar microelectrodes to interrogate explanted aortas from the high-fat fed rabbits. The hemodynamic assessment revealed an increase in time-averaged shear stress by 23.53% and peak values by 27.67% in the descending aorta, respectively (n=10, p < 0.05). There were no significant changes in hemodynamic parameters when compared to baseline measurements (n=10, p>0.05) in the normal dietfed rabbits. Also, frequency-dependent EIS ranging from 10 kHz to 100 kHz was elevated in the shoulder and center regions (n=3, p<0.05). The pre-atherosclerotic lesions in rabbits on high-fat diets were further validated by intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and immunohistochemistry for oxidized LDL and foam cells. Our findings revealed that high-fat fed rabbits developed an increase in intravascular shear stress (ISS) accompanied by endoluminal atherosclerotic lesions and increased serum viscosity. Thus, our convective heat transfer strategy using the flexible MEMS thermal sensors offered an entry point to assess ISS with high temporal and spatial resolution; thereby, providing a new approach to predict changes in ISS in the pre-atherosclerotic regions.
|atherosclerosis; computational fluid dynamics; electrochemical impedance spectroscopy; MEMS sensor
|Part of collection
|University of Southern California dissertations and theses
|Publisher (of the original version)
|University of Southern California
|Place of publication (of the original version)
|Los Angeles, California
|Publisher (of the digital version)
|University of Southern California. Libraries
|Electronically uploaded by the author
|Legacy record ID
|Contributing entity
|University of Southern California
|Lee, Juhyun
|Physical access
|The author retains rights to his/her dissertation, thesis or other graduate work according to U.S. copyright law. Electronic access is being provided by the USC Libraries in agreement with the author, as the original true and official version of the work, but does not grant the reader permission to use the work if the desired use is covered by copyright. It is the author, as rights holder, who must provide use permission if such use is covered by copyright. The original signature page accompanying the original submission of the work to the USC Libraries is retained by the USC Libraries and a copy of it may be obtained by authorized requesters contacting the repository e-mail address given.
|Repository name
|University of Southern California Digital Library
|Repository address
|USC Digital Library, University of Southern California, University Park Campus MC 7002, 106 University Village, Los Angeles, California 90089-7002, USA
|Repository email
|Archival file
|Page 1
|Contributing entity
|University of Southern California
|Repository email
|Full text
|COUPLING INTRAVASCULAR SHEAR STRESS WITH ENDOLUMINAL IMPEDANCE TO DETECT PRE-ATHEROSCLEROSIS REGIONS by Juhyun Lee A Thesis Presented to the FACULTY OF THE USC VITERBI SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree MASTER OF SCIENCE (BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING) August 2012 Copyright 2012 Juhyun Lee


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Featuring All Your Favorite Fandoms! Can I make you...
I'm Just Sayin'....18051117
- by Jade Jackson-Everdeen
- Rating:
- Published: 9 Feb 2014
- Updated: 21 May 2014
- Status: In Progress
Just my comments and opinions on some well know topics like the death of the entire boy band of One Direction or the placement of Justin Beiber's stupid butt back in jail. Maybe you can relate to some of my topics..
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« Previous -
Version 50/56
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Current version
Anthony Rowe, 02/06/2012 11:38 pm
Here you can find the latest stable release version of the CC3 code as local copies of any other useful software packages. For documentation please go to our Documentation page.
- cmucam3_install_r556.zip CMUcam3 Install Software (194 MB)]
- This zip contains all of the files needed for Windows and Linux and includes the checked out source.
- Windows: Cygwin-Installer (with packages), arm-gcc, Philips-Flash utility, .NET Runtime, CMUcam3 frame grabber
- Linux: arm-gcc compiled tar, LPC-isp Flash Utility
- Cygwin source can be obtained through installer program (setup.exe)
- Use this in conjunction with the SDK Install Guide
- Last Updated: 12/29/2008
- [attachment:cc3_r556.zip?format=raw CC3 Source Tree (2.1MB)]
- This is snapshot of the latest stable CC3 source.
- Rev 556 from 12/29/2008
- [attachment:"CMUcam3 Frame Grabber.exe?format=raw" CMUcam3 Frame Grabber (60 KB)]
- .NET GUI for grabbing images and testing basic CMUcam2 Emulation Functionality
- For non-english Windows, try International Frame Grabber
- [attachment:lpc2106_isp_aug_03.zip?format=raw Philips LPC Flash Utility Installer (2.0 MB)]
- Windows flashing utility that allow you to download images to your CMUcam3
- [attachment:cygwin-install.zip?format=raw Local Cygwin Installer (23.7 MB)]
- Cygwin is the environment that allows you to do CMUcam3 development under windows
- [attachment:lpc21isp_unix.zip?format=raw Linux LPC-ISP Installer (25.9 KB)]
- Linux flashing utility
- [attachment:cmucam2_lpc2106-cmucam3.hex?format=raw CMUcam2 Emulation HEX file (264.2 KB)]
- Burn this image onto your CMUcam3 to emulate the CMUcam2
- Windows ARM-gcc Installer
- Windows Code Sourcery ARM gcc compiler installer
- Release 323 2008 q1
- Linux ARM-gcc Installer
- Linux Code Sourcery ARM gcc compiler executables
- Release 323 2008 q1
- [attachment:lua-win-nofpu.zip?format=raw lua-win-nofpu.zip]
- Luac compiled for Windows without floating point support
- CMUcam2 GUI
- If you are running in CMUcam2 emulation, this java gui can be used to test the camera


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WBUR News
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Raytheon Reorganizes, Cutting 200 Jobs
Defense contractor Raytheon Co. said Monday that it is reorganizing its business and plans to cut 200 jobs.
The Massachusetts-based company said it is consolidating some of its business units to increase productivity and better meet customer's needs. Raytheon said the reorganization will result in annual savings of approximately $85 million.
The company declined to say which locations or operations would see job cuts. Raytheon has roughly 68,000 employees worldwide.
The company said the consolidation is not expected to have any effect on the company's 2013 financial outlook.
"Our new structure will help us enhance productivity, agility and affordability in a challenging defense and aerospace market environment," William Swanson, Raytheon's chairman and CEO, said in a statement. "We will remain focused on success for our global customers while returning value to our shareholders."
The company also said that it has elected Thomas Kennedy to the new position of executive vice president and chief operating officer. Kennedy previously served as vice president of Raytheon and president of its integrated defense systems business. He will lead the company's consolidation efforts and will manage day-to-day operating activities, along with contributing to the company's long-range planning. Daniel Crowley, Raytheon's vice president and president, will succeed Kennedy as president the integrated defense systems business.
Lynn Dugle, another Raytheon vice president and president, has been named president of the newly formed Raytheon intelligence, information and services business. And John Harris II, formerly president of Raytheon Technical Services Company LLC, has been named vice president and general manager of the new business unit, reporting to Dugle.
The company reported in January that its fourth-quarter net income fell 14 percent as it suffered from lackluster sales in an era of military cost-cutting.
Shares of Raytheon fell 41 cents to $56.63, in line with broader market movement.
This program aired on March 25, 2013. The audio for this program is not available.
Support the news


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Chris Wondolowski scored a hat trick on Wednesday against Chivas USA. Impressive.
The race between Real Salt Lake and the LA Galaxy for the Supporters' Shield is coming down to the last weekend. Dramatic.
The New York Red Bulls have not beat the New England Revolution in five years, but must beat them if they want to clinch the Eastern Conference title before the Columbus Crew take the field. Stressful, for both teams.
Where'd all the talk of the Rocky Mountain Cup go?
On a warm night in Sandy, Utah, on Sept. 25, the Colorado Rapids came closer than just about everyone else to breaking RSL's home unbeaten streak, currently at 25 games. The Rapids had a 1-0 win until the reigning champs tied the game in the 93rd minute.
A thrilling match, and with RSL trying to win themselves a Supporters' Shield, Saturday's next installment should be just as thrilling.
The players don't like each other. The fans don't like each other. And say what you will about the MLS rivalry cups, the Rocky Mountain Cup means more than just a chance to play spoilers in the Shield race.
The jibes of the Colorado fans to "Fake Salt Lake" and an 8-5-6 lead in the all-time series grates on a team and fanbase that deserve more respect.
The last-day elimination from playoff contention by RSL the past two seasons and an MLS Cup title last year grates on a Rapids club that, darn it, is one of the MLS originals.
And this time around, the teams really match up well. RSL have allowed just 18 goals this season. While Colorado's Omar Cummings and Conor Casey have scored 25 goals combined, and have lethal runner Macoumba Kandji to share the load up front.
What will happen when the impossibly stingy RSL defense collides with Colorado's potent offense?
Exactly: thrills.
So, go ahead, sing the praises of Wondo's terrific season. Titter—and tweet—about the Golden Boot race coming down to the wire. Argue about whether David Ferreira or Javier Morales or Wondo or LD or whoever deserves the MVP award.
The reality, this Rocky Mountain Cup is easily the best game of the weekend. No matter what else is going on, the clash of two playoff-bound teams with bad blood and a trophy on the line is not something to miss.
Ready to Launch: MLS Matchday 2010, The new official MLS iPhone app. It's FREE! Download it now!


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Assembly passes tax break for military families
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The Wisconsin Assembly has passed a bill that would exempt the military income a soldier earns in the year of the soldier's death in combat and the year leading up to his or her death from taxes.
The Assembly passed the bill 97-0 Tuesday. It now goes to the state Senate.
Andrew Johnson's son David, a former U.S. Army first lieutenant, was killed last year while patrolling in the Kandahar Province. Johnson says he was shocked to learn that while the federal government would forgive his son's income taxes, the state wouldn't.
Nearly 6,700 U.S. soldiers have died in combat since 2001. About 150 were from Wisconsin.


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- Home
- Government
- Departments & Offices
- Community & Economic Development
- Divisions
- Community Development Division
- Homeless Management Information Systems
Homeless Management Information Systems
To end homelessness, a community must know the scope of the problem, the characteristics of those who find themselves homeless, and understand what is working in their community and what is not. Solid data enables a community to work confidently towards their goals as they measure outputs, outcomes, and impacts.
What is Homeless Management Information Systems (HMIS)?
Homeless Management Information System, HMIS, is a locally administered data system used to record and analyze client, service, and housing data for individuals and families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
Federal, state and local levels use aggregate Homeless Management Information System data to obtain better information about the extent and nature of homelessness over time. Specifically, the Homeless Management Information Systems can integrate and unduplicated data across projects in a community. This data is used to understand the size, characteristics and needs of the homeless population at multiple levels.
Who Should Participate?
All recipients of HUD funds for homelessness and homelessness prevention services are required to participate in the Homeless Management Information System. This includes recipients of Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) funds, Supportive Housing Program (SHP), Shelter Plus Care (S+C), Section 8 Mod Rehab for SRO, Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA), Runaway and Homeless Youth (RHY) Programs, Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF), and Projects for Assistance in Transition From Homelessness (PATH). In addition, HUD encourages participation of other federal programs that serve homeless persons.
Participation of other organizations that do not receive HUD Continuum of Care funding is voluntary, but strongly encouraged as it helps the entire continuum have a better understanding of what is working in the community and what is not.
Benefits of HMIS Participation
- Coordinating Services
- Decreased in duplicate intakes and assessments
- Improve agency effectiveness through tracking client outcomes
- Identify gaps in services
- Prepare mandated program and financial reports


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In GTA: Vice City he phoned in to V-Rock, mentioning that he now works as a bus driver, and that his wife is angry with him for not making enough money, as well as attacking Lazlow, claiming that he didn't know anything about rock and roll. It is unknown what happened to him afterwards. Ed has a noticeably different voice between Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories and Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, as he puts on a "radio voice" during his time as a DJ. It should be noted that Ed briefly reverts to his "normal" voice when he informs Lazlow that he may be "the only intern he ever fires".
The real life former radio personality Michael "Couzin Ed" Andrews voices himself in both games. Ed legitimately was a DJ for several years, working alongside the real Lazlow. He also legitimately worked as a bus driver and as a stadium announcer for the Philadelphia Eagles.


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How to remove the mirror backing of Swarovski Crystal.
Occasionally some of us would like to remove the mirror foil of a Swarovski Stone. The following information was supplied by Swarovski. Please try this on an inexpensive item first, since the technique used can lead to clouding of the crystal if the solutions are too strong. Note that the information is reproduced as supplied by Swarovski without any alterations. For clarification "niotric" acid is "nitric" acid. My personal suggestion is to leave this to a qualified person, such as a jeweller, rather than risking serious injury.
Proceedure A
2 stage procedure with sulphur and niotric (sic) acid, removed silver can be recycled (foiling consists of a genuine silver mirro, protected by a varnish, which is either gold or silver coloured).
The glass jewellery stones are treated for 4 to 6 hours in a cold sulphur acid to remove the varnish, subsequently rinsed well with water and dipped in concentrated nitric acid at room temperature for 2 hours. The last acid rests are neutralised through dipping in a 2% sods solution at 60 degree C. Finally sufficiently rinsing with ionised water and dryed, removing any residue.
Proceedure B
One stage proceedure with hot sulphur acid
Alternately to procedure A the glass jewellery stones can be put in concentrated sulphur acid at room temperature, subsequently heated to 90 degree C. This temperature is held for an hour and after cooling stones are rinsed thoroughly with water.
the final neutralising, rinsing and drying takes place as descriped under procedure A.
When using hot sulphur acid, great danger of acid burning!
Also when mixing sulhur acid with water great care must be taken (always pour sulphur acid in the water or not vice sersa!!!)


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Post date: June 14 2011
Schneiderman Unveils Prescription Drug Bill To Fight Abuse & Addiction
Schneiderman Targets Prescription Drug Addiction – Part Of National Movement to Address America's Prescription Drug Crisis
"I-STOP" Legislation Would Improve Health Care, Monitor Potential Abuses Like 'Doc-Shopping'
NEW YORK – Addressing the growing wave of prescription drug abuses in New York State, Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman today unveiled legislation that would create an online database to report and track the prescription and dispensing of certain controlled substances.
The "Internet System for Tracking Over-Prescribing Act," or "I-STOP," would provide health care practitioners and pharmacists with centralized information to avoid over-prescribing, help shut down prescription drug trafficking, and identify and treat patients who seek to abuse prescription drugs. Attorney General Schneiderman's program bill expands on a proposal made by Assemblyman Michael Cusick (D – Staten Island), who is sponsoring the bill in the Assembly. In the Senate, the bill is sponsored by Andrew J. Lanza (R – Staten Island).
"The rise of prescription drug abuse in New York and across the country demands a better system for both our health care providers and law enforcement officials to track the flow of potentially dangerous substances," Attorney General Schneiderman said. "I-STOP utilizes our online technology to streamline communication between health care providers and pharmacists to better serve patients, stop prescription drug trafficking, and provide treatment to those who are addicted."
Senator Andrew J. Lanza said, "The legislation would allow our physicians and pharmacists to access real-time prescription histories to ensure that patients' prescription use is legitimate – not lethal. I am proud to sponsor the Attorney General's legislation to improve health care service, and help shut down prescription drug trafficking and abuse."
Assemblyman Michael Cusick said, "The information gap between doctors and pharmacists allows addicts and abusers to slip through our regulatory cracks. The Attorney General's legislation will better coordinate health care services so that patients receive the medication they need, while addicts and those who profit off of abuse receive the treatment they deserve."
Staten Island District Attorney Daniel M. Donovan Jr. said, "I commend the Attorney General on his efforts to create a database that would help law enforcement and the medical community combat prescription drug abuse – similar to a national prescription drug database that would be created under legislation I have worked on with Congressman Michael Grimm. I only hope the other 49 state Attorneys General follow Mr. Schneiderman's lead."
According to the federal Office of National Drug Control Policy, prescription drug abuse is the country's second most prevalent illegal drug problem, and recent reports and studies have documented corresponding data in the state. For example:
- Oxycodone prescriptions rose 66 percent in New York City from 2007 to 2009, with a great number of those prescriptions filled in Staten Island;
- In Buffalo, New York's largest methadone clinic outside of New York City, Catholic Health System, is beginning to reorganize its service to accommodate an increase in care needed to treat the number of addicted expected mothers and their newborns;
- This past summer, as the drug manufacturer of OxyContin altered its current formula to prevent abuse, prescriptions for another opioid, Opana ER increased. In Nassau County, Medicaid prescriptions for OxyContin decreased 43 percent, while Medicaid prescriptions for Opana ER increased 45 percent during the same time period.
I-STOP would amend the New York State Public Health Law to establish a controlled substance reporting system by setting up an online, real-time database. Health care practitioners and pharmacists would be required to report specific information to the database when Schedule II, III, IV, and V controlled substances are prescribed and dispensed. Such controlled substances include: oxycodone and morphine (Schedule II); vicodin (Schedule III); Xanax and Klonopin (Schedule IV); and pyrovalerone (Schedule V).
In addition to reporting the information, practitioners and pharmacists will be required to consult the I-STOP database before prescribing and dispensing a Schedule II, III, IV, or V controlled drug. Practitioners will be able to ensure, among other things, that the prescription is "medically necessary," and that the patient receiving the prescription is not an addict or habitual user. Pharmacists will be able to ensure that the prescription presented matches prescription data reported by a practitioner to the I-STOP database. The New York State Department of Health will be responsible for maintaining the database.
This enhancement of the state's prescription drug monitoring program will assist in patient care, and also help crack down on 'doc-shopping,' the practice of visiting several different doctors and pharmacies for prescription drugs. With real-time information, physicians and pharmacists will be able to track potential abuses, treat addiction, and stop those who enable and profit off of the illegitimate use of prescribed drugs.
I-STOP would also require practitioners, pharmacists and law enforcement officials to complete continuing education programs on the proper uses of the substance reporting system. The proposed legislation prohibits the disclosure of all the data collected in the online database, unless authorized by law. Prescription drug monitoring programs operate in 43 states.


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Not like this guy.
Thank you, Mike!
A Blog detailing the insanity of my medical practice and the stupidity of everyday life.
LOL. Sounds like one of my husband's recent police contacts. When he asked for ID, the 5'10" caucasian, 19 year old kid, gave him an ID of that of a 40 year old 5'2" overweight Asian male.
Good laugh indeed. The positive to all of this, is that they could link him to at least 3 or more personal property crimes.
Of course the police were unable to find him, the stocking cap was red not orange and the jacket was more tan than brown.
Reminds me of the time in our youth when we were stopped for some indiscretion --you we originated the phrase youthful indiscretion--- Cop says to me, what's your name, I say John Doe (not my real name), my brother says Richard Roe, (not his real name) , cop says to miscreant #3 And you ? To which he replies with my real name. ARRRRGHHHH, don't you just hate when that happens.
challenge- find an over 18 black male in west fargo and borrow his id to buy smokes.
I tried to pass a younger kid off as an older one when Costco wouldn't give him his own card (seriously???? If they're driving, they need a costco card so they can run ERRANDS).
It didn't fly. And they even look a fair bit alike.
Little Calf Creamery. Delicious homemade ice cream and food in Thousand Oaks!


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Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ18 Review
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ18 is the latest camera to enter the 18x optical zoom race. The FZ18 can capture 8.1 megapixel resolution and display them in HD. The long zoom Leica lens can do 28mm (equivalent) shots and has optical image stabilization. Another new feature that Panasonic rolled out is the Intelligent Auto mode, which bundles up automatic scene selection, face detection, intelligent ISO control, and continuous auto focus. After seeing the camera in action at a press event, I was anxious to get my hands on a review unit to see how it performed!
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What's New
The FZ18 is the successor to the FZ8. The biggest change in the guts of the camera is the more powerful zoom lens. The FZ8 had a 12x optical zoom and the FZ18 gets an 18x optical zoom. Besides that, there is a small resolution bump to 8 megapixels from 7.1 megapixels, and the 2.5 inch LCD is of higher resolution on the FZ18. Software-wise, Panasonic has introduced their Intelligent Auto mode on the FZ18, which essentially bundles face recognition, continuous AF, Intelligent ISO control, and image stabilization on one easy to use auto mode. I'll talk more about Intelligent Auto later in the review.
The FZ18 has both an LCD and an electronic viewfinder (EVF). If you are shooting a lot of long zoom shots, I highly recommend that you use the EVF as it's a more stable way to hold the camera. Holding the camera up to your face is just inherently more stable than holding it at arm's length.
The 2.5 inch LCD on the FZ18 has approximately 207K pixels and provides a sharp enough preview of your shots. The refresh rate is good and colors are accurate. There are a few alternate LCD modes that help out in bright conditions or odd shooting angles. You can choose from Auto Power LCD, Power LCD, and High Angle. The Power LCD modes essentially just brighten the screen. The high angle mode makes it easier to see the LCD while shooting with the camera over your head.
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The EVF has approximately 188K pixels of resolution and displays the same information and same field of view as the LCD (approx. 100% of the frame). A -4 to +4 diopter adjustment is available to sharpen the EVF display for your eyes, whatever their health.
Lens, Zoom, and Focus
The lens is definitely one of the highlights of the camera. The Leica lens provides an 18x optical zoom with a 35mm equivalent focal length of 28-504mm. As with all Panasonic digital cameras, it's also fitted with optical image stabilization, which, at an 18x zoom, is an absolute necessity. Maximum aperture is f2.8 at wide angle and f4.2 at telephoto. The highest F number (minimum aperture) is f8.0.
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As is the case with other Panasonic cameras, there are two image stabilization modes that you can choose from (as well as turn it off). Mode 1 provides continuous stabilization and it can come in handy for composition (but is harder on the battery). Mode 2 activates stabilization at the time of the shot. Mode 2 provides a more effective stabilization.
The zoom motor provides fine control over the amount of zoom, with many steps along the focal length spectrum and it moves quickly enough for the needs of most photographers.
Panasonic provides plenty of focus modes: normal, AF macro, manual focus, face recognition, multi-area focusing, 3 area focusing (high speed), 1 area focusing (high speed), 1 area focusing, and spot focusing.
In normal focus mode, at wide angle, you can focus on subjects as close as 0.98 feet. At telephoto, this distance pushes out to 6.56 feet. In AF macro, manual focus, or intelligent auto modes, you can focus as close as 1cm at wide angle with the same 6.56 foot range at telephoto. The FZ18 also gives some excellent information about these focus ranges. When you operate the zoom, you can see the current focus range on the LCD. If you try to focus on something out of range, the camera will give you a warning beep and show, in red letters, the current focus range that will work.
Focus performance was very good – quick and accurate. Of course, there are conditions that will tax the focus system – at telephoto and low-light, you'll have to give the camera some more time, but this is completely normal. The camera does have a focus assist lamp to help the camera focus in low-light conditions.
The built-in pop-up flash has a range (at ISO Auto) of 0.98 feet to 19.7 feet at wide angle settings. You can use the following modes: auto, auto with red-eye reduction, always on, slow sync, and disabled.
The pop-up flash must be deployed manually, even in auto mode. Personally, I like this better than if it popped up automatically.
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Memory Media
The FZ18 has approximately 27MB of internal memory and can accept SD, SDHC, and MMC media.
Image/Movie File Format(s)
Images can be recorded as JPEGS only at two compression levels, RAW, and RAW+JPEG. Movies are recorded as Quicktime files.
You can connect to your computer via a USB 2.0 connection. AV out is provided via the same connector. You can also get an optional power adapter for the 8.4V DC power jack.
The camera is powered a 710mAh lithium-ion battery pack (CGR-S006A), or the optional power adapter. Charge time is approximately 2 hours. Battery life is very good, with Panasonic claiming 400 shots per charge. Under real world use, I would expect to see about 350 shots.
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The FZ18 has a full complement of shooting modes, from fully automatic to fully manual, and everything in between. The auto mode on the camera is the new Intelligent Auto mode ("iA" on the mode dial). The iA mode does quite a bit for you. First, it selects the right scene settings for the conditions. It can select portrait, scenery, macro, night portrait and night scenery. It also automatically uses face detection, so if a face is detected in the shot, that face will be focused on and exposed correctly. The Intelligent ISO piece will vary the ISO of the camera depending on subject movement. Moving subjects require faster shutter speeds, so the ISO will be increased. Finally, the iA mode also uses continuous AF, so your shots are always in focus.
Moving on, there are a few scene modes available directly on the mode dial: portrait, landscape, sports, and night portrait. For access to the rest of the scene modes, just turn the dial to the SCN position. There, you can access Panning, Food, Party, Candlelight, Baby 1/Baby 2, Pet, Sunset, High Sensitivity, Starry Sky, Fireworks, Beach, Snow, and Aerial Photo.
Once you're ready to leave auto mode and experiment more, we get into program auto, which gives you more control over white balance, ISO, metering modes, and focus modes. Next comes aperture priority mode (A on the dial) where you select the aperture using the mini-joystick and the camera sets the correct shutter speed. Shutter priority (S on the dial) is the opposite of this, where you use the joystick to choose the shutter speed (between 8 seconds and 1/2000 of a second), while the camera sets the aperture to the right setting. Finally, manual mode (M on the dial) lets you set the shutter speed and the aperture until you get the shot that you want.
A "Custom" entry on the mode dial provides access to three slots that allow you to set camera options that you'll want to use later.
In the menu, there is also an option, labeled "flip anim" that lets you capture still images and make them into a movie.
Movie Mode
The movie mode on the FZ18 can capture movies at 640×480, 320×240, and 848×480 at 30fps and 10fps. The image stabilizer operates during movie capture, but the optical zoom does not.
For exposure metering, you can choose from multiple area, center-weighted, or spot metering.
White Balance
The automatic white balance did a nice job overall. If you do notice a color cast, you can try one of the white balance presets (daylight, cloudy, shade, flash, halogen), or there are two slots to save a custom white balance. Setting the white balance is very easy, just select "set" from the white balance menu, choose which slot to store the settings in, and then the camera directs you to point at a white target to set the white balance.
You can also tweak the white balance settings via the "WB Adjust" item in the menu system.
The FZ18 can shoot at sensitivities of ISO 80, 100, 200, 400, 800, and 1600. If you try out the High Sensitivity scene mode, the camera will use a range if ISO between 1600 and 6400.
If you use Intelligent ISO control, you can set the maximum ISO of 400, 800, or 1600.
Depending on the shooting mode, there are different options for setting the ISO. In P and A modes, you can actually only adjust the sensitivity if you have Intelligent ISO control turned off. Then, in S and M modes, Intelligent ISO is disabled.
In-Camera Image Adjustment
Beyond the basic photography and exposure settings, you can use color effects during image capture. You can choose from B&W, sepia, cool, and warm. You can also tweak the image processing by adjusting contrast, sharpness, saturation and noise reduction.
During image playback, you can rotate images, resize, trim, convert aspect ratio, and copy. You can also set titles, set text stamps (date, age, travel, title).
The FZ18 is not a compact camera, measuring 2.96" x 4.63" x 3.47". It occupies that "bridge" category of cameras sized between compacts and SLRs. It's a camera that comes with a neck strap instead of a wrist strap. Now, even though it's larger, it's still very comfortable to hold, with a pronounced hand grip and solid feel. A textured thumb grip on the upper right of the back of the camera adds another element of stability (which is important with such a long zoom). Build quality is very good. The camera is pretty hefty and it feels solid overall. All of the buttons and doors work well.
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Speaking of buttons, there are actually quite a few on the camera. On top, you'll find the shutter, zoom control, mode dial, macro/normal focus button, AF/manual focus button, and power switch. On the back, you'll see the button to deploy the flash, button to toggle between the LCD and EVF, AF/AE lock button, joystick, display/lcd mode button, 5-way control pad, and delete button. The control layout is very good, with the shutter, zoom control and mode dial easily accessible. Once you get into more manual modes, you'll start using the joystick more and it's an easy reach for your thumb.
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Along with the camera, you'll find the battery, battery charger (that plugs directly into the wall), USB cable, AV cable, CD-ROM, shoulder strap, lens cap, lens cap string, lens hood, and lens hood adapter.
In general, using the FZ18 was a pleasure. Camera operation was quick enough all around to allow plenty of opportunities to get the shot. Having such a powerful zoom can be really fun since you can frame distant subjects very tightly.
While it's nice that Panasonic has bundled together several useful features in the Intelligent Auto mode, in practice, it didn't really work out too well for me. For example, for the face detection system to work, the camera had to have at least a rough focus. The problem is that the continuous AF is not fast enough to get close enough that the face detection gets a chance, especially when you're trying to capture a specific moment or slightly fidgety kids. If you partially press the shutter button before faces are detected, the camera just uses a typical AF (which is quick). Most of the time, I just avoided the iA mode and stuck in program auto (P) mode, in which you can turn on face detection focus, if so desired. If your shooting consists of more stationary subjects, then the iA mode will work nicely.
Image Quality
Overall, most casual photographers, and even some enthusiasts, will be very happy with the image quality from the FZ18. Color reproduction was good, details were sharp across the entire frame, and default exposure was good. After looking at all the shots that I took, the camera didn't have as good a dynamic range as I would have liked, which is a function of more pixels crammed into a physically small sensor. I had several shots where the bright areas were over-exposed and the dark areas were under-exposed. The more familiar you get with the camera, the better you can adjust settings (like exposure compensation and metering method) to get the shots that you want.
Even though the shot below is under pretty harsh lighting conditions, I would have liked to see a greater dynamic range. In this shot, the shadow areas are under-exposed and the lit areas are over-exposed.
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Lens performance was very good, with very little barrel distortion at wide angle and pretty much non-existent pincushion distortion at full telephoto. Chromatic aberration was visible in wide angle shots, when you really zoom in on high contrast boundary areas.
Noise performance was pretty average. ISO 100 and 200 are good. Some details are lost at ISO 400. Above that (ISO 800 and up), noticeable noise reduction really muddies up any details and color splotchiness is pretty visible.
Timing/Shutter Lag
Camera performance was very good. Start up was respectable, especially on a camera with a big lens. Shutter lag, if you do a full press, was around 0.45 seconds. If you do a partial press first to get a focus lock, shutter lag was under 0.1 seconds. Under good conditions, focus can be achieved under 0.4 seconds, but at telephoto you may need to subject. I had focus times at telephoto take up to about 2 seconds. This is pretty typical and nothing to be concerned about. Shot to shot times were also very good, at less than 2 seconds. The flash charge time was quick, even with a mostly depleted battery. The flash was ready to go after 2-3 seconds.
Sample Images
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If you're in the market for an ultra-zoom, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ18 deserves a place on your short list. While poor noise performance and a small dynamic range detract from some images, overall image quality is good with nice color reproduction and sharp details. I was particularly impressed with some portrait-type images that I took at a childrens birthday party. The very nice Leica 18x optical zoom lens gives you a lot of flexibility and "reach" to get the shot that you want without high levels of lens distortion or chromatic aberration. The new "soft" feature of the camera, the Intelligent Auto mode, will be helpful to beginning photographers in some situations since it takes some of the leg work out of getting the shot. However, I don't see any intermediate to advanced shooters relying on this mode during everyday shooting. If you're really set on an 18x optical zoom, the only other camera on the market is the Olympus SP-550 UZ. There are more models coming soon (Olympus SP-560 UZ, Fujifilm Finepix S8000fd), but other ultra-zooms worth taking a look at, like the Canon Powershot S5 IS and Sony H-series cameras are a little bit shorter in the zoom category.
- Nice lens with 18x optical zoom
- Full feature set (manual exposure modes, etc.)
- Quick speed of operation
- Excellent battery life
- Significant digital noise over ISO 400
- Small dynamic range produces shots with over-exposed highlights and under-exposed shadows


text:
Study the Scriptures
1. All the stories of prophets long ago,
And commandments they taught that we should know,
Ev'ry gospel teaching we have heard
Is found in the scriptures of the Lord.
2. Study the scriptures of the Lord.
They were written for us to learn His word
And enrich our lives in many ways.
So study the scriptures ev'ry day.
Text: Kristin Cornilles
Music: Kristin Cornilles
Artist: Cornilles
Album: Music Published in the Church Magazines: Friend
Composition Date: 1990-07-01
More Info: Friend


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Power-Gen Europe 2013: 4th to 6th JunE 2013, Vienna
POWER-GEN Europe 2013 , Europe's largest event in the field of energy generation is taking place from 4th to 6th June 2013 with Renewable Energy World Europe 2013 at Messe Wien exhibition and congress centre. It is the first time that Vienna is hosting the event.
In the accompanying conference sessions the guiding theme of ''Keeping Europe's Energy Flowing'' will focus on issues concerning Europe's energy revolution (also known as "Energiewende"). Here, various technical and strategic themes will be dealt with, which are thought-provoking and will have a significant effect on our future.
Leading firms in the Austrian and international energy industry will be presenting their know-how in the fields of thermal and renewable energy on Europe's largest exhibition floor dedicated to power generation. The latest services and technologies will be presented covering all aspects of energy production.
An audience of approximately 14,000 energy professionals from over 100 countries are anticipated in Vienna.
You can find further information on POWER-GEN Europe 2013 on the event's website
http://www.powergeneurope.com .
Related downloads
- POWER-GEN Pre-ShowGuide [pdf, 6,292.3 kb]


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Founded in 2011 by graduate students at UNC Greensboro, Quintet Sirocco joins a small group of international ensembles dedicated to expanding the visibility of the reed quintet. Consisting of oboe, clarinet, bass clarinet, saxophone and bassoon, the reed quintet produces a unique range of tonal colors compared to other wind chamber ensembles. Sirocco regularly performs throughout central North Carolina, engaging audiences through innovative performances in concert halls, art galleries, coffee houses and other traditional and non-traditional locations. Sirocco's current works focus on commissioning and performing new works for reed quintet with collaborations underway with composers Nicholas Rich and Joel Puckett.
Quintet Sirocco embraces the diversity of contemporary life through unique programming and outreach. The current members of Sirocco, Ronnal Ford (oboe), Xin Gao (saxophone), Cat Keen Hock (clarinet), Trevor Davis (bass clarinet) and Marian Graebert (bassoon), bring a wide range of experiences and interests to the group. Sirocco encompasses this variety in their performances. A typical program pairs disparate musical styles alongside one another, from baroque transcriptions to arrangements of impressionist piano works and new music commissioned for the ensemble, presented in unique ways. Sirocco strives to create performance experiences that engage and challenge audiences to embrace the diversity presented by the reed quintet. Join us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/QuintetSirocco and on Twitter @5Sirocco for performance updates.


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Pod your wall! The orangic pod wall pieces are intended be hung alone or arranged in groupings. Our unique hanging ring allows hanging in any direction. Group with the other colors we offer or all the same color palette. Each piece is a unique, fused and slumped sculpture.
Made in Michigan, ready to hang, measures approximately 11" x 8" x 2.5" deep.


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iMac (Mid 2007) - Technical Specifications
This article has been archived and is no longer updated by Apple.
|20-inch iMac
|20-inch iMac
|24-inch iMac
|2.0GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
|2.4GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
|L2 cache
|4MB shared
|Frontside bus
|1GB (one SO-DIMM) 667MHz DDR2 SDRAM (PC2-5300), supports up to 4GB
|Hard drive
|250GB Serial ATA1; 7200 rpm
|320GB Serial ATA1; 7200 rpm
|Optical drive
|Slot-loading 8x SuperDrive with 4x double-layer burning (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW)
|20-inch (viewable) glossy widescreen TFT active-matrix LCD, 1680 by 1050 pixels, millions of colors
|24-inch (viewable) glossy widescreen TFT active-matrix LCD, 1920 by 1200 pixels, millions of colors
|Built-in iSight; mini-DVI output port with support for DVI, VGA, S-video, and composite video connections via adapter3
|ATI Radeon HD 2400 XT with 128MB of GDDR3 memory
|ATI Radeon HD 2600 PRO with 256MB of GDDR3 memory
|One FireWire 400 and one FireWire 800 port; 7 watts each
|Three USB 2.0 ports on computer; two USB 2.0 ports on keyboard
|Built-in stereo speakers with 24-watt digital amplifier, built-in microphone, optical digital audio output/headphone out, optical digital audio input/audio line in
|Built-in 10/100/1000BASE-T (Gigabit)
|Built-in AirPort Extreme (802.11n)2; built-in Bluetooth 2.0+EDR (Enhanced Data Rate) module
|Hardware accessories
|Apple Remote, Apple Keyboard, and Mighty Mouse
|Built-in IR receiver
|Built-in IR receiver, optional VESA mount adapter kit
|Configure-to-order options
|• 2GB Memory Upgrade (two 1GB)
• 4GB Memory Upgrade (two 2GB)
• 320GB or 500GB Hard Drive
• Apple Wireless Keyboard
• Wireless Mighty Mouse
• Apple USB Modem
• Software: iWork '08, Aperture, Logic Express, Final Cut Express
|• 2GB Memory Upgrade (two 1GB)
• 4GB Memory Upgrade (two 2GB)
• 500GB or 750GB Hard Drive
• Apple Wireless Keyboard
• Wireless Mighty Mouse
• Apple USB Modem
• Software: iWork '08, Aperture, Logic Express, Final Cut Express
|• 2.8GHz Intel Core 2 Extreme
• 2GB Memory Upgrade (two 1GB)
• 4GB Memory Upgrade (two 2GB)
• 500GB, 750GB, or 1TB Hard Drive
• Apple Wireless Keyboard
• Wireless Mighty Mouse
• Apple USB Modem
• Software: iWork '08, Aperture, Logic Express, Final Cut Express
|Limited warranty and service
|Your iMac comes with 90 days of free telephone support and a one-year limited warranty. Purchase theAppleCare Protection Plan to extend your service and support to three full years. Only the AppleCare Protection Plan provides you with direct telephone support from Apple technical experts and the assurance that repairs will be handled by Apple-certified technicians using genuine Apple parts. For more information, visit Apple support or call 800-823-2775.
|Apple and the global environment
|Learn more about Apple's dedication to reducing the environmental impact of our products and process.The Apple Product Environmental Specification details the environmental attributes of our products.
|Apple takes a holistic view of materials management and waste minimization. Learn more about how to recycle your Mac.
In the box
- iMac
- Apple Keyboard
- Mighty Mouse
- Apple Remote
- Cleaning cloth
- Power cord
- Install/restore DVDs
- Printed and electronic documentation
Processor and memory
- 2.0GHz or 2.4GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, or 2.8GHz Intel Core 2 Extreme processor
- 4MB shared L2 cache at full processor speed
- 800MHz system bus
- 1GB (one SO-DIMM) of PC2-5300 (667MHz) DDR2 memory
- Two SO-DIMM slots support up to 4GB
Hard drive
- 20-inch model with 2.0GHz processor
- 250GB Serial ATA 7200-rpm hard drive1
- Optional 320GB or 500GB Serial ATA 7200-rpm hard drive
- 20-inch model with 2.4GHz processor
- 320GB Serial ATA 7200-rpm hard drive1
- Optional 500GB or 750GB Serial ATA 7200-rpm hard drive
- 24-inch model with 2.4GHz processor
- 320GB Serial ATA 7200-rpm hard drive1
- Optional 500GB, 750GB, or 1TB Serial ATA 7200-rpm hard drive
Optical drive
- Slot-loading 8x SuperDrive (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW)
- Writes DVD+R DL and DVD-R DL discs at up to 4x speed
- Writes DVD-R and DVD+R discs at up to 8x speed
- Writes DVD-RW at up to 6x speed and DVD+RW discs at up to 8x speed
- Reads DVDs at up to 8x speed
- Writes CD-R discs at up to 24x speed
- Writes CD-RW discs at up to 16x speed
- Reads CDs at up to 24x speed
- Built-in 20-inch (viewable) or 24-inch (viewable) glossy widescreen TFT active-matrix liquid crystal display
- Resolution
- 20-inch: 1680 by 1050 pixels
- 24-inch: 1920 by 1200 pixels
- Millions of colors at all resolutions
- Typical viewing angle
- 20-inch models
- 160° horizontal
- 160° vertical
- 24-inch model
- 178° horizontal
- 178° vertical
- 20-inch models
- Typical brightness: 290 nits (20-inch models); 380 nits (24-inch model)
- Typical contrast ratio: 800:1 (20-inch models); 750:1 (24-inch model)
- Built-in AirPort Extreme wireless networking (802.11n)2
- Built-in Bluetooth 2.0+EDR (Enhanced Data Rate) module
- Built-in 10/100/1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet (RJ-45 connector)
- Works with 56K V.92 Apple USB Modem (sold separately)
Graphics and video
- 20-inch model with 2.0GHz processor
- ATI Radeon HD 2400 XT graphics processor
- 128MB of GDDR3 memory
- 20-inch model with 2.4GHz processor and 24-inch model
- ATI Radeon HD 2600 PRO graphics processor
- 256MB of GDDR3 memory
- Mini-DVI output port with support for DVI, VGA, S-video, and composite video connections via adapter3
- Built-in iSight camera
- Support for external display in extended desktop mode
- Digital resolutions up to 1920 by 1200
- Analog resolutions up to 2048 by 1536
- Support for external display in video mirroring mode
Electrical and environmental requirements
- Meets ENERGY STAR requirements
- Line voltage: 100-240V AC
- Frequency: 50Hz to 60Hz, single phase
- Maximum continuous power: 200W (20-inch models); 280W (24-inch model)
- Operating temperature: 50° to 95° F (10° to 35° C)
- Storage temperature: -40° to 185° F (-40° to 85° C)
- Relative humidity: 5% to 95% noncondensing
- Maximum altitude: 10,000 feet
Size and weight (20-inch)
- Height: 18.5 inches (46.9 cm)
- Width: 19.1 inches (48.5 cm)
- Depth: 7.4 inches (18.9 cm)
- Weight: 20 pounds (9.1 kg)4
Size and weight (24-inch)
- Height: 20.5 inches (52.0 cm)
- Width: 22.4 inches (56.9 cm)
- Depth: 8.1 inches (20.7 cm)
- Weight: 25.4 pounds (11.5 kg)4
Peripheral connections
- One FireWire 400 and one FireWire 800 port; 7 watts each
- Total of five USB 2.0 ports: three ports on computer, two ports on keyboard
- Built-in stereo speakers
- Internal 24-watt digital amplifier
- Headphone/optical digital audio output (minijack)
- Audio line in/optical digital audio input (minijack)
- Built-in microphone
- Mac OS X v10.4.10 Tiger (includes Spotlight, Dashboard, Mail, iChat AV, Safari, Address Book, QuickTime, iCal, DVD Player, Xcode Developer Tools)
- iLife '08 (includes iTunes, iPhoto, iMovie, iDVD, iWeb, GarageBand)
- iWork '08 (30-day trial)
- Front Row
- Photo Booth
- AirPort Express Base Station (M9470LL/A)
- AirPort Extreme Base Station (MB053LL/A)
- Apple Wireless Keyboard (MB167LL/A)
- Apple wireless Mighty Mouse (MB111LL/A)
- Apple 8x DVD-R Media Kit (M9472G/A)
- Apple Mini-DVI to DVI Adapter (M9321G/A)
- Apple Mini-DVI to VGA Adapter (M9320G/A)
- Apple Mini-DVI to Video Adapter (M9319G/A)
- Apple FireWire Cable (M8706G/A)
- AppleCare Protection Plan (MA520LL/A)
- iMac 24-inch VESA Mount Adapter (MB060G/A)
- iWork (MA790Z/A)
- Aperture (MA438Z/A)
- Logic Express (MA338Z/A)
- Final Cut Express (MA261Z/A)
- .Mac Subscription (MA927Z/A)
- 1GB = 1 billion bytes; actual formatted capacity less.
- Based on an IEEE 802.11n draft specification. Also compatible with IEEE 802.11a, IEEE 802.11b, and IEEE 802.11g. Wireless Internet access requires a wireless access point and Internet access (fees may apply).
- Adapters sold separately.
- Weight varies by configuration and manufacturing process.
- Intel and Intel Core are trademarks of Intel Corp. in the U.S. and other countries. Internet access requires a compatible Internet service provider; fees may apply. Product contains electronic documentation. Backup copy of software is included.
Published Date: Apr 6, 2016