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The Day of Archaeology is a pretty busy one in the office – not just the usual need to get specimens analysed and reports out of the door, but also with the added urgency of being almost the last day in the office before holidays.
As an archaeometallurgical specialist, I examine assemblages of metalworking residues (mainly slag…) on behalf of field archaeologists, both in academia and in the commercial world. My particular interest is in iron – so although I undertake projects dealing with all sorts of materials, it is with iron that there is the greatest synergy between my commercial work and my research interests. You might have thought we already know all there is to to know about iron making and iron working – but nothing could be further from the truth. This is a dynamic and rapidly advancing branch of archaeometallurgy and experimental work on various techniques is a key aspect of what I do – at least when the opportunity arises.
The reports I'm completing today include two for assemblages from a pair of adjacent Early Medieval sites in central Ireland. Intepreting such material entails bringing together various strands of data:
– there is the overall make-up of the assemblage, the types of slag, their proportions and distribution within the site. Much of that information is produced during the assessment stage of the project.
– there are detailed observations to be made about the form of individual pieces of slag. Often they can be identified to a general process or technology at this stage.
– there are bulk chemical analytical data. I use information generated by XRF (X-Ray Fluoresence Spectrometry) for the major elements and by ICP-MS (Inductively-coupled plasma – mass spectrometry) for the trace elements – thats over 50 elements altogether.
– and there are also the microstructural and microanalytical data that can be obtained by examining polished blocks of material under the SEM (scanning electron microscope). This gives information on the individual minerals within the slag: what they are, how they formed and sometimes what reactions were taking place in the slag before it solidified.
That, then, are the various sorts of data, but the challenge (and the fun) is in the synthesis of that information into an intepretation. That interpretation needs to be both scientifically rigorous and archaeologically useful. It needs to reflect the place of the metalworking activity in the lives, culture and economy of real people. Its not just a case of what was happening, chemically, within a hearth or furnace – but what that means in a human context.
So where is the synthesis of today's data going? Well, one of the key observations on the material I'm writing up today is that the morphology of the slag tells me it comes from iron working (rather than primary smelting), but it contains a high proportion of material (particularly the elements manganese and barium) that must have been derived from the original smelting of the iron ore. This means that these slags were generated during the refining of the raw iron bloom to produce a useable material.
One of the great debates in early ironworking studies at the moment is whether such slags were generated during a bloomsmithing operation (thats to say the smith alternately heated the raw iron and forged it with a hammer to drive out the slag impurities) or by a remelting process (in which the smith completely melted the raw iron to allow the escape of the trapped slag). In the past it has been assumed that all bloom refining was by bloom smithing – now it seems remelting may have been much more important than we thought.
It is to debates such as this that experimental work can make a great contribution.
Today's report writing was, at one level, supplying data and interpretation to a developer-funded project – and relates to the interpretation of life in 7th century Ireland. At another level it was another piece of the jigsaw in trying to understand a key early technology used in many parts of Europe. It will be a while before that all comes together as a comprehensive understanding of the technique – but when it does, that information can then be fed back again into the understanding of people's lives 1400 years ago.

subset: commoncrawl


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Note from C.C.:
Here is a lovely picture of 9-year-old Hudson helping grandpa Husker Gary solve yesterday's LA Times puzzle "after he took a sip of coffee out of my NASA mug. He got UTTER and others too, some with prompting and some on his own! My wife is scared he is turning into Papa!".


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A fan fell into the Yankees' dugout during their victory over the Seattle Mariners on Wednesday, landing on the dugout steps before being corralled by law enforcement.
The fan fell midway through the Yankees' 5-0 win at Safeco Field. Manager Joe Girardi said the fan appeared intoxicated when he climbed on the roof of the dugout. He then fell into a part of the dugout where no players were at that moment.
"It kind of freaked me out, actually," Girardi said. "I think he tried to jump in, but he was probably not even in a state to be walking."
Girardi said the fan fell twice, landing on his ribs at first then going down again when he tried to stand. The fan was escorted from the stadium by two members of law enforcement.
"Let's just say he shouldn't have really been doing anything," Girardi said.


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by: The Jayhawks
It was one of the more unlikely major label releases of 1992 -- nothing to do with grunge, certainly not a last holdout from '80s mainstream sludge. On the flip side, it wasn't really the incipient alternative country/No Depression sound either, for all that there was a clear influence from the likes of Gram Parsons and fellow travelers throughout the grooves. This wasn't a sepia-toned collection of murder ballads or the similarly minded efforts that were almost overreactions to Nashville's triumphalism throughout the '90s. At base, Hollywood Town Hall found a finely balanced point -- accessible enough for should-have-been success (sclerotic classic rock station programmers were fools to ignore this while still playing the Eagles into the ground) but bowing to no trends. Its lack of variety tells against a bit -- while there are certainly stronger moments than others, most of the songs do have a tendency to blend into each other -- but the core strengths of the group come through. George Drakoulias fleshed out the sound just enough, with the side help of performers like Benmont Tench and Nicky Hopkins adding fine extra touches without swamping the identity of the group. Piano and organ may be prevalent, but it's really Olson and Louris' great harmonies that are the core of things, giving songs like "Crowded in the Wings" and "Settled Down Like Rain" a high-and-lonesome sparkle. Callahan's a good drummer, if not particularly noteworthy, but he keeps the pace steady without dominating the tracks, Drakoulias keeping him back in the mix a bit. Olson's eventual departure isn't really explained by this disc -- he might have been tired of the attempt to aim for commercial success, but this sounds more like something made for the group's own satisfaction that connects beyond it as well. ~ Ned Raggett


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Here are some great little ideas for that front porch of yours.
I have long time been a fan of this Martha Steward Fall front porch! I love the monochromatic color scheme! GOLD. Love how some of the pumpkins have a metallic sheen to them. And the pots of mums just make it for me! Oh, it's so pretty!
I love the idea of mixing flowers with pumpkins! It really dresses those pumpkins up a little! This would be so cute on a front porch.
Always a fan of the lantern idea from Potterybarn. Love the tiny pumpkins surrounding those candles!! And the larger pumpkins and leaves filling the other lantern is really cute, too.
As much as I love the vibrancy of the front porch shown above, this one with the muted oranges and browns is really speaking to me this year. I LOVE that huge leaf wreath. How easy must that be to make!!? Also loving all the rattan and grapevine pumpkins, in place of real pumpkins. LOVE the huge lanterns and the leaves spread over the ground. And I'm also really loving the hay bails. I don't usually, but in this case they look awesome! The table full of candy apples is a nice touch, too. :)
I really like the idea of putting pumpkins in urns like this. The urns could stay on your porch all year round, and then you'd just have to change the filling to fit the season. Love this idea.
Another bunch of pretty lanterns...I really like the idea of filling them like vases, and with pumpkins it's adorable!
And lastly, a metallic scheme for you. Love the sheen of those pumpkins!! And that arrangement next to the door is adorable! Also loving the pretty little pumpkins perched above the door - that's a cute idea if you have a transom like that. And I REALLY love the arrangement on the door. No wreath here. It's a fun new shape and I think it looks great! Kind of like a metallic cornucopia. Love the "boo" next to it, as well. :)


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« More on Common Standards | Main | Missing the Point: The True Value of Advanced Placement »
Regents Blues
I'll preface what comes next by saying that I'm a bit cranky, both because it's 11 degrees Fahrenheit in New York City right now (cue citizens from all cities north and northwest of here to say it's positively balmy compared to Boston or Portland or Fargo or Madison, and I should stop complaining), and also because we're in the middle of New York State Regents Week. The kids don't like Regents Week because they have to take boring state exams for days on end. The teachers don't like Regents Week because we have to proctor and then grade boring state exams for days on end.
Here's how my day looks: For three hours this morning (THREE HOURS!), about 100 other teachers and I get "normed" in the grading of the Regents essays--really, one essay and two short-answer questions. The process of being "normed" involves reading the rubric for each question, reading dozens of sample responses with grades and without grades already on them, discussing in groups why they received the grades they did, and vowing to grade these same questions in a matter of hours according to the uniform standards that we've just received.
Now, I wouldn't inherently object to this--good that we're all on the same page, as graders--except that (a) I don't see why it needs to take three full hours to be "normed" on grading one essay and two short answer questions, particularly when we're provided with sample essays and a rubric for marking each question, and (b) since I've already proctored and graded this same test approximately six times since the change-over to the new Regents exam in 2010, I'm not sure why I've needed 18 total hours of "norming" for these essays over the past three years. I mean, seriously. Eighteen hours? To put that in perspective, that's the same amount of time I've spent with a given class over the course of one marking period.
And furthermore, since I just graded the June Regents exams six months ago, not to mention my constant in-class efforts to train my students to answer the Regents questions, I think one could reasonably assume that I haven't forgotten everything about Regents in that short span of time--and that I won't suddenly forget how the essay should look just because it's based on a different quotation than last spring's question. June wasn't that long ago, and my summer vacation wasn't so crazy as to supplant all memories of the previous school year.
So, this already makes me a little cranky. Another thing that makes me cranky is the fact that I have to go to a different campus--not my own school--during Regents week in order to grade tests. Ostensibly, the reason for this is that no teacher should grade his or her own school's exams. Fine. However, I don't understand why that requires my leaving my campus to go to a totally different one, particularly since my school's tests were sent to that same campus anyway. What's the logic in my moving, then? And, why were other teachers from my school sent to different campuses? And, if the higher ups really want to shuffle around the tests so that no teachers are grading their own, wouldn't it make sense simply to send the tests out, but leave the teachers to stay put on their own campuses (to receive another school's tests)? Or better yet, to have us switch tests "in-house" with any of the other six small schools on our same campus?
All this prep work doesn't even begin to take into account the unnecessary complications once we begin scoring: We now are assigned "rater numbers," with which we have to sign off on any score we give an essay, and then sign the same scoring sheet again at the bottom with our rater number and initials, and then sign the outside of the box the tests all came in, and then sign three different attendance rosters on top of that. Also, each "section" of a test (basically, any classroom within any school where kids take a test becomes a "section") is kept in an individual polyurethane bag--as though contaminated--and cannot be separated or mixed with other tests from that same school (even though all the tests in any box are from the same school, and thus have the same end destination.)
Regents Week always stands in my mind as an example of system-wide redundancy, inefficiency, and impracticality. I wish our higher ups would devise a better way of handing state exams, preferably one that involved less paper work, time wasting, and general red tape.


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Avremi Raichik (Ben R' Yanki) – Los Angeles, CA to Rivky Hartman – Crown Heights
L'Chaim: Tonight (Weds.) at Bais Levi Yitzchok
Zalman Denburg – Coral Springs, FL to Chanie Gorkin – Crown Heights
L'Chaim: Tonight (Tuesday) at FREE
Levi Milworn – Crown Heights to Faigy Donin – Crown Heights. L'Chaim: Tonight (Thursday) Oholei Torah Hall
Moshe Coleman – Crown Heights/London to Simcha Davoudpour – Beverly Hills, CA
Baby boy to Raffy and Chana Filler (nee Stein) – Crown Heights
Sholom Ber Liberow (Ben R' Zalman) – Flatbush, NY to Chaya Braun (Bas Harav Yosef Yeshaya) – Crown Heights
Mendel Fayershteyn – Crown Heights to Gitty Lipszyc – Ft. Lauderdale, FL L'Chaim: Monday Night at the Oholei Torah Hall
Ari Bronstein (Ben R' Peretz) – Crown Heights to Mashi Junik (Bas R' Berel) – Crown Heights L'Chaim: 1336 Carroll St.
Baby girl to Naphtali and Yael Kornikh – Montreal, Canada
An older couple of the community who used to open their home and wallets to people before the virus hit are now hit themselves with tremendous financial strain as their businesses have suffered losses and remain in limbo as the pandemic draws out. Please let's help those who have helped so many of their fellow Anash retain their home and dignity in this trying times, as well as marry off their last child iy"H soon • Full Story, Donate
In a letter sent out to the parents of the Oholei Torah elementary school in Crown Heights, the board announced that following a number of upgrades in staff that have been made recently in the school, Rabbi Mendel Blau has been appointed as the head Menahel • Full Letter
With great sadness, we regret to inform you of the passing of Rabbi Sholom DovBer Sanowicz, OB"M, the patriarch of a large family of Shluchim and Mechanchim. He passed away on Shabbos, Hei Kislev. He was 93-years-old • Full Story
In a letter published by Jonathan Pollard today, he thanks his wife Esther for helping him get though his time in prison and thanks Rabbi Avraham Lider, OB"M, for helping save his wife's life • Full Letter


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Dr. Sues manages to provide outstanding medical care in a health care system that demands efficiency. She is experienced, intelligent, knowledgeable, and conveys compassion in the professional context. She treats the whole person, is devoid of arrogance, collaborates with peers, and make appropriate referrals.
Become a New Patient
We are currently accepting new patients into our practice. Thank you for considering us. To become a new patient:
- Make an Appointment
- Sign up for our patient portal
- Download your patient forms online through the patient portal
When you come to our office for the first time as a new patient, we'll ask you to complete some initial forms, including an Authorization and Consent for Treatment form, if you were not able to download them from the patient portal in advance of your appointment.
To make sure there are no delays in care during your first visit experience, please arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment to ensure your registration is complete before meeting with your new provider.
Remember to bring:
- Your insurance card
- Valid photo ID
- List of current medications
- Office co-pay
In an effort to respect the time of all of patients, our staff strives to stay on schedule so that other patients do not have to wait.
For patients who are delayed and arrive late for appointment, every effort will be made to see them the same day. However, wait times may apply, or appointments may need to be rescheduled.
Patient Forms
Authorization for Release of Medical Information (PDF) - Allows patients to authorize the disclosure of their health information to a designated individual, company, agency, or facility. Autorización De HIPAA Para Divulgar Información Del Paciente
Authorization and Consent for Treatment (PDF) - All patients must provide their consent for treatment, communications (calls, emails, and text messaging), and agreement of financial responsibility. Autorización y Consentimiento Para el Tratamiento
Preferred Contacts (PDF) - Patients are encouraged to complete and return the Preferred Contacts Form but it is not required. Contactos Preferidos
Virtual Visit Policy (PDF) - This policy describes the process for the documentation, maintenance, and transmission of information using virtual visit technology.
Office Policies
Financial Policy (PDF) - This form advises patients of their complete financial responsibility for all medical services received without regard to insurance eligibility or coverage determinations.
Notice of Privacy Practices (PDF) - Describes how health information about you (as a patient of this Care Center) may be used and disclosed, and how you can get access to your individually identifiable health information. Please review this notice carefully.
Understanding Your Visit
What is a:
- Wellness Exam
- Physical
- Check Up
- Medicare Visit
- Chronic Care Visit
Wellness exam, physical, chronic care visit. If you're confused about the differences among these terms, you're not alone. The services performed at each of these visits are distinct. And deductibles and co-pays vary depending on the type of insurance you have.
At Prosperity Primary Care, our goal is to help you understand the different types of office visits we offer so you know what to expect. Here are descriptions of each one, as well as the services provided and what insurance may or may not cover. These are general guidelines only. Your insurance company's coverage might be different, and it's important to know your benefits prior to scheduling an appointment. We encourage you to familiarize yourself with what your insurance plan offers. Visit your insurance company's website for details.
Services Provided
Physical/Check Up
- Well Man or Well Woman Exam
An exam on a healthy person with no symptoms to look for hidden disease and give advice on healthy behavior. Getting the right preventive services at the right time can help you stay healthy by preventing disease or by detecting a health problem at an early stage when it may be easier to treat.
- Does Not Include:
Medication refills, evaluation of new symptoms, or management of chronic problems.
- Insurance Coverage:
Covered by most insurance. Not covered by Medicare, but may be covered by secondary insurance if Medicare patient has that.
Follow Up/Chronic Care Visit
- A visit to review chronic problems, adjust medications, check laboratory monitoring, or refill prescriptions. For some simple chronic problems (e.g., allergies), this may be once a year. For more significant problems, it may be at least twice a year.
- Does Not Include: Review of preventive services.
- Insurance Coverage: Covered by almost all insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid.
"Welcome to Medicare" and Annual Medicare Wellness Visit
- Specialized planning visit to review which Medicare preventive services you need. Medicare requires that a standard set of questions be asked. They must include: review of functional status, depression screening, list of special medical equipment (if any), and list of other doctors. At the end of the visit, you receive a written summary of the services you require that are covered by Medicare. These might include cancer screening tests, EKG, blood tests, bone density tests, ultrasound, etc.
- Does Not Include: Medication refills or evaluation of new symptoms.
- Insurance Coverage: Medicare pays in full. There is no co-pay or deductible.
New Problem/Symptom Visit
- An appointment to investigate a new symptom—such as chest pain, weight loss, or depression. Oftentimes, the problem may be quite complex, with multiple symptoms that require diagnostic tests and follow- up visits.
- Does Not Include: Medication refills for other problems or review of preventive services.
- Insurance Coverage: Covered by almost all insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid.
Administrative Physicals
- Camp physicals, school physicals, work physicals, insurance physicals—this type of visit requires the doctor to fill out a form. Services include whatever is necessary to fill out the form.
- Does Not Include: Medication refills or evaluation of new problems.
- Insurance Coverage: Sometimes covered by insurance, but often not. In cases where a form is needed a short time after an appointment (i.e., child had an annual Well Child Exam to update immunizations and three months later needs a form filled out for camp), the doctor may be able to complete the form without another visit. However, there is a fee to fill out the form and that fee is usually not covered by insurance.
Coding for Your Insurance
The difference between medical services is sometimes hard to understand. As a physician practice, FFPC does not control these differences. Our reimbursement is based on the coding system that insurance companies use to describe medical work. For example the coding system classifies a physical exam and medication refill as two separate services. Think of it this way: you wouldn't expect to make a restaurant reservation for three people, and then bring a fourth person for free. Or have a plumber come to fix a leaky sink and install a dishwasher for no extra charge. The same is true for medical services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I combine services?
For your convenience, the provider may combine two types of services at one visit — a Well Man Exam and a chronic care visit to refill blood pressure medication, for example. Many factors determine if we are able to do this at a particular visit, how well a medical condition is under control, a new more urgent problem is present and the general health of the patient is all a consideration. However, because these are two different services, there would be two separate charges. We may collect two co-pays at the time of your visit and submit two charges depending on your insurance benefit.
How do you decide what to focus on during an exam?
Providers are taught to examine literally thousands of physical signs—from knee reflexes to heart sounds. When conducting an exam, the doctor relies on your personal medical history in combination with any current symptoms or problems. Sometimes, specific symptoms such as a heart murmur or rash will be the actual diagnosis. Your medical history is always the first important consideration.
How do you decide what tests and services I should have?
Providers are specially trained to evaluate the usefulness of tests and preventive services and help you decide which ones are right for you. We offer advice on immunizations, X- rays, blood tests, and a host of other special procedures. Generally, testing is based on your age, health history, and risk factors. We rely on information from the United States Preventive Services Task Force to guide our recommendations.


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In 1929, the uninhabited Galapagos island of Floreana was as close to Eden as the modern world would allow.
In 1929, the uninhabited Galapagos island of Floreana was as close to Eden as the modern world would allow. At least that's what German philosopher Friedrich Ritter and his married mistress Dore Strauch believed when they sailed for Floreana to live out their days in blissful isolation from the rest of the world.
For a few short months they successfully achieved their Adam-and-Eve fantasy in their Pacific paradise. But their cover was inevitably blown by the German press, and a half-dozen other like-minded pioneers soon joined them. Thus the stage was set for the rancor, discord and murder intriguingly chronicled by documentarians Dayna Goldfine and Dan Geller in their fascinating "The Galapagos Affair: Satan Came to Eden."
In the course of five short years, Floreana's population soared from two to eight with the addition initially of Heinz and Margaret Wittmer and their teenage son, Harry; and a few months later, the pistol-packing Austrian Baroness Eloise von Wagner Bosquet and her pair of young lovers, Robert and Rudolf. Distrust and power struggles quickly ensued. In other words, it was just like any other neighborhood. Then, 1934 rolled around, and suddenly people started mysteriously disappearing and dying, cutting the population nearly in half.
How things reached that point is the heart of "Galapagos," but what sells it are the priceless home movies shot by the principals and unearthed by Goldfine and Geller in the depths of the University of Southern California film library. After more than 70 years, the footage was in pretty bad shape, but it's been resplendently restored for the movie. And it's invaluable in bringing all the central players and their primitive island environs vividly alive. The highlight, though, is a short pirate movie that a visiting sea captain shot presciently featuring the baroness gunning down fellow islanders. Another coup was the recovery of the inhabitants' extensive journals, passages from which are read by a bevy of primo actors, including Cate Blanchett as Dore, Thomas Kretschmann as Friedrich, Sebastian Koch and Diane Kruger as the Wittmers and Connie Nielsen as the irrepressible baroness, an egotistical, power-hungry woman who may have burned too many bridges to get off the island alive.
Of the seven adult residents, the baroness, who claimed to be the niece of composer Richard Wagner, is by far the most captivating, and Goldfine and Geller wisely place most of the focus on her and her bizarre behavior. Was she really a baroness, or just a promiscuous nut case? Ritter, a devout follower of Nietzsche and his Superman theorem, clearly believed the latter, especially when she tried to take over his island. Clearly, these two would like to see the other dead, but they're not the only ones, and the filmmakers do a fine job setting up motives for other potential murders. Moreover, the film is an excellent indictment of human nature and the fallacy of a peaceful paradise.
The result is every bit as salacious as any true-crime story on TV, probably better. But Goldfine and Geller dilute the goods by stretching what should have been a 90-minute movie to the two-hour mark by including meaningless – some might say useless – interviews with Galapagos islanders who have nothing to do with the tragic events of 1934. They only bog down and convolute the material, which is unforgivable when the filmmakers had all they needed to tell a riveting story in the journals and archival clips. In adding the "extras," they only slow the film's pace, and as a result tamper with our attention spans, something that should never happen with stuff this juicy. Still, as much as Goldfine and Geller try, they can't diminish the power "Galapagos" packs. It's killer in every sense of the word.


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4 Ways to Avoid Paying for Hotel Wi-Fi
Whether traveling for business or pleasure, no one wants to arrive at a hotel to find expensive Wi-Fi access. Hotels could potentially lose business by charging guests high or hidden fees for Internet. But many establishments — especially luxury lodging — still charge a pretty penny to go online, with little guarantee for a fast connection, either.
According to a recent J.D. Power & Associates study, about 55% of all hotel guests access the Internet during their stays — up 20% from 2006. About 87% of that group is using Wi-Fi.
Although most travelers have come to expect connectivity to be cheap or included, it's not always the case. The good news is there are ways to avoid paying for Wi-Fi at hotels all together.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind for your next trip.
1. Tether Your Mobile Device
It's possible to tether your 3G or 4G connection from your smartphone to your computer, but many carriers charge fees to do so. Once you have added the service to your data plan, turn on your phone's personal hotspot option, located in settings. By setting a password, you will be able to prevent other guests in nearby rooms from connecting to your hotspot.
2. Buy a Wireless Router
Although many hotels charge for Wi-Fi, some provide ethernet cables for you to use free. You can then connect your Apple AirPort Express or similar portable Wi-Fi hotspot device to send connectivity to your laptop and mobile devices.
3. Check the Lobby
It might cost you more to access the web in your hotel room, but some places offer free Wi-Fi in the lobby. To prevent guests from using valuable bandwidth to stream media on sites such as Netflix — which also takes money away from in-room pay-per-view — hotels often restrict free Wi-Fi in rooms, but open it up to guests at no extra charge on the main floor.
4. Find Nearby Connectivity
WeFi has a database of more than 132 million Wi-Fi hotspots worldwide, from small towns to urban centers. The company also has apps for both iOS and Android, so it's easy to locate the closest Wi-Fi on the go.
How do you avoid paying for Wi-Fi at hotels? Let us know in the comments.
BONUS: 15 Travel Twitter Accounts to Follow
Travel Twitter Accounts to Follow
Image courtesy of iStockphoto, courtneyk


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------ Visual Studio ALM MVP ----- (also see new blog at http://hermit.no)
UPDATED March 24th 2016: Test Data Retention is now added to TFS 2015 Update 1, see this post for more information.
UPDATED Apr 15th 2013: Corrected to VS2012 Update 2
UPDATED Mar 23rd 2012: Added information about VS 11
UPDATED Mar 21st 2012: Added info and link to VS/TFS 11 tool for getting the Test Attachment Cleaner, now included with the TFS Power Tools
UPDATED Mar 17th 2012: Added sql queries for TFS 11 Beta. Changed structure after Adam's advices. Updated information.
UPDATED Jan 9th 2012: Added link to SQL 2008 R2 SP1 CU4 for ghost file fix
Recently there has been several reports on TFS databases growing too fast and growing too big. Notable this has been observed when one has started to use more features of the Testing system. Also, the TFS 2010 handles test results differently from TFS 2008, and this leads to more data stored in the TFS databases. As a consequence of this there has been released some tools to remove unneeded data in the database, and also some fixes to correct for bugs which has been found and corrected during this process. Further some preventive practices and maintenance rules should be adopted.
Scenarios that trigger this is:
VS 2012 Improvements
In VS 2012 the following changes have been done to improve the situation:
See this blogpost for detailed information about this.
A lot of people have blogged about this, among these are:
Anu's very important blog post here describes both the problem and solutions to handle it. She describes both the Test Attachment Cleaner tool, and also some QFE/CU releases to fix some underlying bugs which prevented the tool from being fully effective.
Brian Harry's blog post here describes the problem too
This forum thread describes the problem with some solution hints.
Ravi Shanker's blog post here describes best practices on solving this (TBP)
Grant Holidays blogpost here describes strategies to use the Test Attachment Cleaner both to detect space problems and how to rectify them.
What features can cause the problem:
All the published data above is published into the TFS database as attachments.
The test results will include all data being collected during the run. Some of this data can grow rather large, like IntelliTrace logs and video recordings.
Particularly annoying is the pushing of binaries which happen for automated test runs. This is in earlier versions of TFS the default setting, whereas in later versions it has been reversed. The binaries includes all the programs dll's and exe's, and is pushed up to prepare for a second run. Normally that never happens, so there is really no point in polluting the database with these binaries. These binaries are often seen to be the highest size contributor.
The goal of this post is to give you a step-by-step process to get a smaller database.
Step 1: Ensure your Visual Studio (MTM) and SQL Server for TFS is properly set up
Even if you have got the problem or if have yet not got the problem, you should ensure the Visual Studio MTM and SQL server is set up so that the risk of getting into this problem is minimized. To ensure this you should install the following set of updates and components. Note that the TFS Server itself does not affect this, but you should also keep that up to the latest upgrade.
See my blog post here for the latest extensions, updates and patches or Grant Holidays excellent post here for further details.
Visual Studio updates:
The default settings (for both 1 and 2 above) will be to not upload deployed binaries, which are used in automated test runs, given the following conditions:
<Deployment enabled="false" uploadDeploymentItems="false" />
The CU2 or hotfix should be installed to
SQL Server updates:
use master
SELECT DB_NAME(database_id) as 'database',OBJECT_NAME(object_id) as 'objectname',
FROM sys.dm_db_index_physical_stats (DB_ID(N'<DatabaseName>'), OBJECT_ID(N'<TableName>'), NULL, NULL , 'DETAILED')
TFS Attachment cleaner:
Step 2: Analyze the data
Are your database(s) growing ? Are unused test results growing out of proportion?
To find out about this you need to query your TFS database for some of the information, and use the Test Attachment Cleaner (TAC) to obtain some more detailed information.
If you don't have too many databases you can use the SQL Server reports from within the Management Studio to analyze the database and table sizes. Or, you can use a set of queries. I find queries often faster to use because I can tweak them the way I want them. But be aware that these queries are non-documented and non-supported and may change when the product team wants to change them.
Step 1.1: If you have multiple Project Collections, find out which might have problems:
Open a SQL Management Studio session onto the SQL Server where you have your TFS Databases.
Use the query below to find the Project Collection databases and their sizes, in descending size order.
use master
select DB_NAME(database_id) AS DBName, (size/128) SizeInMB
FROM sys.master_files
where type=0 and substring(db_name(database_id),1,4)='Tfs_' and DB_NAME(database_id)<>'Tfs_Configuration' order by size desc
Doing this on one of our SQL servers gives the following results:
It is pretty easy to see on which collection to start the work
Step 1.2: Find out which tables are possibly too large
Keep a special watch out for the Tfs_Attachment table.
Use the script at the bottom of Grant's blog to find the table sizes in descending size order. Add a "use Tfs_DefaultCollection" or whatever name you have for your collection database( s) at the top of the script.
In our case we got this result:
From Grant's blog we learnt that the tbl_Content is in the Version Control category, so the major only big issue we have here is the tbl_AttachmentContent.
Step 1.3: Find out which team projects have possibly too large attachments
In order to use the TAC to find and eventually delete attachment data we need to find out which team projects have these attachments. The team project is a required parameter to the TAC.
Use the following query to find this, replace the collection database name with whatever applies in your case:
In our case we got this result (had to remove some names), out of more than 100 team projects accumulated over quite some years:
As can be seen here it is pretty obvious the "Byggtjeneste – Projects" are the main team project to take care of, with the ones on lines 2-4 as the next ones.
Step 1.4: Check which attachment types take up the most space
It can be nice to know which attachment types takes up the space, so run the following query:
We then got this result for a TFS 2010 database:
From this it is pretty obvious that the problem here is the binary files, as also mentioned in Anu's blog.
Step 1.5: Check which file types, by their extension, takes up the most space
Run the following query
This gives a result like this:
Now you should have collected enough information to tell you what to do – if you got to do something, and some of the information you need in order to set up your TAC settings file, both for a cleanup and for scheduled maintenance later.
Step 3: Cleaning out the attachments
The TAC is run from the command line using a set of parameters and controlled by a settingsfile. The parameters point out a server uri including the team project collection and also point at a specific team project. So in order to run this for multiple team projects regularly one has to set up a script to run the TAC multiple times, once for each team project. When you install the TAC there is a very useful readme file in the same directory.
There are some guidelines about running the TAC from Ravi Shanker:
When the deployment binaries are published to the TFS server, ALL items are published up from the deployment folder. That often means much more files than you would assume are necessary. This is a brute force technique. It works, but you need to take care when cleaning up.
Grant has shown how their settings file looks in his blog post, removing all attachments older than 180 days , as long as there are no active workitems connected to them. This setting can be useful to clean out all items, both in a clean-up once operation, and in a general cleanup.
There are two scenarios we need to consider:
3.1: Cleaning up a database which has grown too big due to these attachments.
This job is a "Once" job. We do this once and then move on to make sure it won't happen again, by taking the actions in 2) below. In this scenario you should only consider the large files. Your goal should be to simply reduce the size, and don't bother about the smaller stuff. That can be left a scheduled TAC cleanup ( 2 below).
Here you can use a very general settings file, and just remove the large attachments, or you can choose to remove any old items. Grant's settings file is an example of the last one. A settings file to remove only large attachments could look like this:
<!-- Scenario : Remove large files -->
<TestRun />
<SizeInMB GreaterThan="10" />
Or like this:
If you want only to remove dll's and pdb's about that size, add an Extensions-section. Without that section, all extensions will be deleted.
<!-- Scenario : Remove large files of type dll's and pdb's -->
<TestRun />
<SizeInMB GreaterThan="10" />
<Include value="dll" />
<Include value="pdb" />
Before you start up your scheduled maintenance, you should clear out all older items.
3.2: Scheduled maintenance using the TAC
If you run a schedule every night, and remove old items, and also remove them in small batches. It is important to run this often, like every night, in order to keep the number of deleted items low. That way the SQL ghost process works better.
One approach could be to delete all items older than some number of days, let's say 180 days. This could be combined with restricting it to keep attachments with active or resolved bugs. Doing this every night ensures that only small amounts of data are deleted.
<!-- Scenario : Remove old items except if they have active or resolved bugs -->
<AgeInDays OlderThan="180" />
<Attachment />
<Exclude state="Active" />
<Exclude state="Resolved"/>
In my experience there are projects which are left with active or resolved workitems, although no further work is done. It can be wise to have a cleanup process with no restrictions on linked bugs at all. Note that you then have to remove the whole LinkedBugs section.
A approach which could work better here is to do a two-step approach, use the schedule above to with no LinkedBugs as a sweeper cleaning task taking away all data older than you could care about. Then have another scheduled TAC task to take out more specifically attachments that you are not likely to use. This task could be much more specific, and based on your analysis clean out what you know is troublesome data.
<!-- Scenario : Remove specific files early -->
<TestRun >
<AgeInDays OlderThan="30" />
<SizeInMB GreaterThan="10" />
<Include value="iTrace"/>
<Include value="dll"/>
<Include value="pdb"/>
<Include value="wmv"/>
<Exclude state="Active" />
<Exclude state="Resolved" />
The readme document for the TAC says that it recognizes "internal" extensions, but it does recognize any extension.
To run the tool, use the following command:
tcmpt attachmentcleanup /collection:your_tfs_collection_url /teamproject:your_team_project /settingsfile:path_to_settingsfile /outputfile:%temp%/teamproject.tcmpt.log /mode:delete
3.3: Shrinking the database
You could run a shrink database command after the TAC has run in cases where there are a lot of data being deleted. In this case you SHOULD do it, to free up all that space. But, after the shrink operation you should do a "rebuild indexes", since the shrink operation will leave the database in a very fragmented state, which will reduce performance. Note that you need to rebuild indexes, reorganizing is not enough.
For smaller amounts of data you should NOT shrink the database, since the data will be reused by the SQL server when it needs to add more records. In fact, it is regarded as a bad practice to shrink the database regularly. On a daily maintenance schedule you should NOT shrink the database.
To shrink the database you do a DBCC SHRINKDATABASE command, and then follow up with a DBCC INDEXDEFRAG afterwards. I find the easiest way to do this is to create a SQL Maintenance plan including the Shrink Database Task and the Rebuild Index Task and just execute it when you need to do this.
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Lambs N Ivy Enchanted Forest Rug
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No mics? No problem
Introducing the SingStar app
With the free SingStar app not only will your personal microphone be at hand for any harmonising emergencies, but you'll also be able to mix up your personal playlist and cue up the latest hits.
Have a laugh with friends at your own SingStar bash or impromptu sing-a-long, and then show off your best bits (and, of course, your hilarious epic fails) on Facebook and Twitter.
Get the best hits in one place with SingStar: Ultimate Party on PS4 and PS3, and download tons more songs from the online SingStore; from pop to rock to hip-hop, with plenty in-between, with the likes of Rihanna, Passenger, Bon Jovi, One Direction and ABBA to choose from.


text:
As a CPU board usable in connection with the on-chip debugging emulator E2, E2Lite or E1 (Discontinued product), this product achieves simple and easy evaluation of the target MCU.
- Built-in RL78/G13 (R5F100SLAFB).
- A 20 MHz oscillator mounted as main clock, high-speed operation enabled (@ 2.7 to 5.5 V).
- Equipped with universal area (2.54 mm pitch).
- Supports both flash memory programming and on-chip debugging (using TOOL0 pin).
- Highly extendable; peripheral board connectors are equipped with microcontroller pins.
- Lead-free (Pb-free) product.
Information on the discontinuation of E1 emulator production and on its successor products
We have already discontinued production of the E1 emulator due to components of the product having reached their EOL (end of life, i.e. end of production). Please click on the following link to confirm the details and our successor products.
>> Tool News: [Notification] Advance Notice of E1 Emulator Product End of Life (EOL)
Information Supporting Development Tools
|My Renesas
|Create a My Renesas account to use our tool download services,receive e-newsletter/update notifications, and take advantage of our other services.
|Information for studying and learning about microcontrollers and microprocessors.
|Frequently asked questions and useful hints for development.
|A forum and community site to share technical information, questions and opinions with others who use Renesas MCU's.
|Tool News
|Tool release information and other important information.
|Operating Environment
|Information on system requirements and operating environment for the latest version of tools.
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|A list of Renesas software and tools that have been discontinued and are no longer being offered for new projects.
Tool Information
No product that matches the specified status or spec was found.
Please contact Renesas Electronics support


text:
Did you have a long, hard day? Here, watch this adorable puppy drink her water and forget all your troubles—forget your boss, forget your crabby mother-in-law, forget that weird smell coming from under the sink. Just forget them all.
From the people at Run Auggie Run, this video is pretty great. But it's not as wonderful as Gertie's story: "Gertie has a cleft palate and was found in a dumpster at [one] day old. She was taken to the Mia foundation and we adopted her from there."
I have something in my eye. Sorry; BRB!


text:
Norquist: Obama's GOP Tax Collectors
Grover Norquist on the spending problem and Obama's plan to get Republican fingerprints on a tax hike. Photo: Getty Images.
This transcript has been automatically generated and may not be 100% accurate.
... I ... the story ... lies Republicans on this year you won't ... become are justly famous for holding the line on taxes are at it but ... it's pulling out a little further it I think to ... liberals of our competitors across town of New York Times they they sometimes like to portray you as a ... as as this of course that is somehow manipulated Republican ... politicians and the signing these no tax pledge is when in fact ... this is what Republican voters want and what a lot of voters want and so a lot of them would be promising this in response to voter demand of whether or not ... you were out there ... suggesting a certain place but the ... but but given that you can focus on taxes ... are you now in this environment focused on spending restraint ... in and enjoy greater degree and here's what I'm wondering is ... what I hypothesize the president actually did say here's the real ... reform social security here's a real restraint on Medicare spending ... would you say ... that's ... that's probably worth the modest tax increases will get vastly reduce the unfunded liabilities because eventually though that's ... that's all stuff that has to be paid by taxpayers ... well we need to reduce spending ... but one thing we know from history ... is Democrats do not consider the overspending ... problem ... to be a problem ... they view it is to their life's achievement ... Obama is very happy with the five trillion dollars in debt that he ran up the additional spending ... his next project is to get us to raise taxes if Republicans but their fingerprints ... on ... tax increases to pay for his bigger government ... so I e don't lose any sleep that Obama might come up with the tax ... with its spending restraint that would ... tempt people to vote for higher taxes in return ... we live through that with the Reagan in nineteen eighty two ... when the three dollars in phony spending cuts or promise for every one dollar a very real ... tax increase ... than eight years later Bush fell for the same ... track shame on him for ... for falling for the Lucy in the Football the second time ... Gray was promised two dollars of ... imaginary ... spending ... restraint for every dollar tax increase ... and the idea that the Democrats are once again ... going to offer phony spending cuts for real tax increases ... is all the president has done for the last three years of his presidency so ... um ... this ... be the problem with this ... one a lot of focus on whether Republicans are to break the pledge but the whole ... the whole discussion has been will they break their pledge in return for some insight on the deal he's not offering any entitlement to so ... long for this all this focus is possibly relevant but ... whenever I get up and you mention of the leverage points ... debt ceiling limit that's obviously got some political cost if ... if people ... get upset the war either the country's going to default to ... you to inform the government people get worried it might shut down but I think the sequester is just pure leverage for Republicans I hope they realize the The ... powerful tool they have a and and the continuing resolution ... that that's very ... easy to do for week two weeks ... it's it's not as big a weapon as the debt ceiling but it almost as effective over time ... will give thanks Rover ...


text:
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I find that being aware of looking for opportunities to enjoy life through as many senses as possible creates strong impressions of pleasure that enhance life's experiences. As with any other creation, there are many aspects to making an enjoyable experience. There should be memorable stimulation caused by texture, smell, color, taste, and visual presentation. This blog follows my journey as I learn to create, through following other's recipes, adapting recipes and creating my own. My love for all cooking, but mostly baking, comes from the joy I feel when sharing what I make with others and the satisfaction of a job well done. I am not naturally gifted when it comes to cooking but I find the experience meditative and creative, thus mentally relaxing. Please join me in my quest for making eating a beautiful experience.
Category Archives: zucchini
Zucchini-Chocolate Chip Muffins
Zucchini Chocolate Chip Muffins have became one of my favourites. They are moist, crunchy from the walnuts, chocolaty from the choco-chips and filled with healthy vegetable – so slightly green. What a great Mother's Day treat. Healthy and tasty!! – and … Continue reading
Posted in Cakes, everything chocolate, Muffins, Walnut, zucchini Tagged breakfast, chocolate, chocolate chips, desserts, healthy muffins, muffins, snack, sweet treat, Walnut, zucchini, zucchini chocolate chip muffins, zucchini chocolate chip walnut muffins, zucchini miffins, zucchini walnut muffins 3 Comments


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The Vintage Watch Company has recently installed GIMBLE 150 recessed adjustable LED downlights to illuminate their window display showcasing restored vintage Rolex watches. GIMBLE 150 can tilt through 50 degrees so can be a good wall wash option. With...read more
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We are really pleased to have finally launched our brand new mobile friendly website, the new website marks the 20th anniversary of manufacturing and supplying lighting to the retail, museum and exhibition industries, we are very proud of it and hope you love it as much as we do!
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Tyntesfield, an ornate Victorian Gothic Revival house with extensive garden and parkland, just a stone's throw from Bristol recently installed bespoke versions of POLE-MINI Focusing Spotlights to illuminate their art and exhibits. The production team at...read more
MWM (The Museum of Witchcraft & Magic), an independant museum located in the picturesque village of Boscastle, Cornwall, is one of Britains most unique and well loved museums. In March 2020 they installed a large amount of MagTrack II 24VDC magnetic...read more
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Taylor Swift Leather Tote
Taylor Swift completed her ensemble with a two-tone leather tote by Kate Spade New York.
Brand: Kate Spade
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Taylor Swift stepped out rocking a sexy '50s vibe in a cropped polka-dot bustier.
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Beauty Bound Earrings
The Beauty Bound collection features a seashell pearl delicately contained within a silver cage, capturing the elegance inherent in simplicity. The pearl's softly iridescent glow peeks through the silver setting, quietly radiating understated beauty.
Description: Grey seashell pearls with white stones set into rhodium-plated, nickel allergy-free, 925 sterling silver.
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An overdue promotion.
Hardcore gamers will tell you with utmost confidence that real-time strategy gaming started back in 1992 with Dune II. Even geekier geeks will claim that it REALLY began in 1990 with Herzog Zwei. A select few will even try to trace it back to 1980's fantastic Sea Battle on the Intellivision, though anyone with that kind of gaming gusto probably has a wedgie pulled up to their neckline and should stop thinking so much (note: I am in this group).
The fact of the matter is that RTS gaming truly took form and shape in the mid-90's with the release of the original WarCraft and the original Command & Conquer. Both were revolutionary, laying the groundwork for every single RTS that followed. They were also just great fun.
Fast-forward nearly a decade and the WarCraft series has proved its staying power with a terrific third iterationand a nearly flawless track record. Having suffered from a few missteps over the years, the C&C franchise knew it had to take some drastic steps to keep up with Blizzard's behemoth.
The folks at Westwood named that step Command & Conquer: Generals, the first fully 3D strategy take on the C&C universe and one of the most anticipated PC releases in quite some time. And while it definitely recaptures some of the glory of the franchise's heyday, it can't quite live up to its enormous hype.
Right from the start, it's clear that this isn't just a retread of the C&C we've all come to know and love, as the ever-quarreling GDI and NOD are both MIA. Rather, the game is set against a much more realistic backdrop featuring three distinct sides.
The story is straight out of modern day CNN. It seems the world is being threatened by the GLA (Global Liberation Army), a terrorist organization that likes to blow up stuff. The Chinese and the Americans are apparently the only ones concerned, each attempting to secure the safety of the world by taking out the GLA. Sound familiar? That's because you basically watched it on TV last night.
Though it might up the ante in terms of eerie realism, the story is not supported adequately by the game's main Campaign mode. Each side features 7 or 8 missions, but unlike other C&C games, there is no branching. It's a strictly linear go for each one.
Additionally, the designers felt that to keep up the realism, they had to forgo what is considered a hallmark of the series – live video. There are no actors or FMV segments at all to help flesh out the story. Instead, you are given a quick voice briefing before each mission and then an introductory in-engine cutscene to set the stage. I hope Kane has a day job.
The result might keep the feel consistent without jarring you back and forth between gameplay and video, but it also does very little to give the story any arc. The Campaign feels like just a series of missions strung together loosely. Despite having completed all three, I couldn't tell you the overarching story if I tried.
While they dropped the ball with the plot, they definitely pick it up again when it comes to the brand new 3D 'Sage' game engine. Say goodbye to the sprites of old – all vehicles are polygonal and the maps feature fully 3D terrain. Great texture work and terrific explosions breathe new life into the franchise. You can rotate and zoom with ease to get different takes on the conflict. Though the infantry look a little cheesy, watching them get blown into the air after a particularly nasty barrage lends a palpable sense of mayhem. By all accounts, this is a very pretty game.
This cool new engine comes at a price, though, as C&C Generals requires a lot of power to run smoothly. Lower-end systems will chug along with options turned way down. But to be fair, you can't ask for a burly new graphics system without expecting some resource hogging, so it's not a big deal.
The three sides are balanced nicely. The technology of the U.S. is superior, the Chinese rely on mass numbers, and the GLA makes up for its basic unit deficiencies with sneaky tactics and devastating weapons. Civilian car bomb, anyone? And when it comes to ubers, the GLA's Scud Storm and China's Nuclear Missile are much nastier than the US Ion Beam.
The units add distinct flavor to each side. The Chinese Overlord tank, for instance, can be outfitted with a gattling gun (good against infantry), soldier bunker or propaganda tower (heals nearby friendly units). U.S. spy drones can open up the map to airstrikes. The GLA can build tunnel networks to be even stealthier. If there's one thing C&C does well, it's unit creativity.
What it doesn't do so well is handle veterans. Units gain up to three veteran ranks by killing the enemy, and vets gain abilities like self-healing and higher damage. Plus, downed pilots can be placed in normal vehicles to add veteran points to that unit, making them quite useful indeed.
But in a bizarre design decision, veterans do not carry over in the Campaign. Despite keeping a three-star unit alive, he's gone when you win the map. Doesn't that sort of defeat the purpose of veteran units altogether? By the end of a map you're attacking with Nukes and waves of tanks, rendering the veteran advantage nil. How about letting me choose a few vets to take with me? Vets would come in handy by giving you a start advantage; the inability to carry them over is just frustrating.
As laid out in our recent preview, Generals was so named because you were supposed to choose to play as one of nine generals, thereby giving you access to certain special abilities. I guess this turned out to be awkward in the play testing, because the concept has been changed. Instead, you gain 'General points' by completing mysterious requirements during battle. You can then use those points to buy General abilities (which only last for one battle). These include various levels of airstrikes and a quick repair option, as well as side-specific choices like the Chinese ability to crank out veteran infantry immediately or the GLA's ability to collect cash from downed enemies. It might not be as cool as they originally planned, but the 'Generals' idea works well and adds some more fuel to the strategy fire.
And when you get right down to it, Generals excels in its gameplay. It's a much slower-paced affair than most other recent RTS games like WarCraft 3 and Impossible Creatures, but the slower movement makes for a more strategic game. Building, upgrading, and taking out a heavily fortified enemy with a well-placed nuke is as fun as addictive as ever.
Gone is that frisky tiberium, replaced with a vague 'supplies' resource. Each side has a different means of collection, though the games rarely turn into the classic 'war of attrition' model that dominated earlier C&Cgames. Plus, the Chinese have a 'hacker' soldier that can illegally download cash from the Internet in case you run out of supplies. Hmmm…sounds like a new business model for GR…
But despite its thoroughly updated look and features, Generals falls into old habits with some annoying AI. Your units have an amazing tolerance for pain, as evidenced by the fact that they do not move or even fire back on their own if they're being attacked from even a smidgen outside their range. You'll watch in vain as a GLA missile launcher takes out three tanks and ten infantry because they didn't have the intelligence to fire back or even move out of the way after the first two missiles. You have to keep a close watch over every single battle.
Additionally, you cannot set up formations, which can spell disaster in a 3D RTS. Tanks often have a hard time figuring out how to get through certain areas and will instead take 'the long way home'. Setting up waypoints is impossible, and advanced unit controls (like making a group of infantry 'scatter' before being bulldozed by a tank) are absent.
When you tire of the single-player experience, you can hop into Generals multiplayer. The game definitely works better here as the AI range issue isn't as noticeable. Up to 8 players can go at it at once, and the matching system is very handy.
To sweeten the deal, Generals lets you watch an instant replay of any battle – single or multiplayer – to find out where you went wrong. It's a great feature that's long overdue in the RTS genre.
And speaking of long overdue, it's about time the C&C universe got a real update. Though Generals isn't without its design faults, it serves up enough RTS goodness to please fans of the genre and acts as a fitting swan song for Westwood and EA Pacific.


text:
2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E350 4MATIC
Retail Price: $16,295
Internet Price: $13,999
City 17/Hwy 24 Estimated By E.P.A. - Actual Mileage May Vary
Dealership Information
Auto Expo USA of Cleveland
3250 West 117th Street
Cleveland, OH 44111
All of our Retail Vehicles are Guaranteed to pass E-Check and any other States Emission Tests. We offer Competitive Rates and Special Finance options available to everyone regardless of credit history. We welcome all trade-ins, bad to great credit and first time buyers. Auto Expo USA is able to assist in shipping and multi vehicle transports for our out of state customers. At Auto Expo USA you will find over 100 vehicles including, Audi, Acura, BMW, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Infiniti, Jaguar, Jeep, Land Rover, Lexus, Mercedes, Saab, Toyota, Volkswagon & Volvo. We are confident that we have what you are looking for or will be more then glad to find it. Auto Expo's Finance Manager has over 17 years experience in the business and in the Cleveland Market. He has established solid relations with all of the local and national lenders. We at Auto Expo guarantee that you will drive home happy; if you are working full or part time, if you receive SSI/Disability, for those of you who are self-employed or need to prove employment by a job letter or with bank statements and/or 1099's we will get you on the road today. All of our vehicles have been through a multi-point inspection and we have ASE certified mechanics on site. We offer Vehicle Service Contracts (Warranties) GAP, Tire & Wheel and Theft protection. We strongly believe that everyone deserves a quality vehicle at a fair price.
- ABS Brakes
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- AM/FM Radio
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- Cargo Area Tiedowns
- CD Changer
- CD Player
- Child Safety Door Locks
- Cruise Control
- Daytime Running Lights
- Driver Airbag
- Driver Multi-Adjustable Power Seat
- DVD Player
- Electrochromic Exterior Rearview Mirror
- Electrochromic Interior Rearview Mirror
- Electronic Brake Assistance
- Fog Lights
- Front Air Dam
- Front Power Lumbar Support
- Front Power Memory Seat
- Front Side Airbag
- Genuine Wood Trim
- Heated Exterior Mirror
- Interval Wipers
- Keyless Entry
- Leather Steering Wheel
- Manual Sunroof
- Passenger Airbag
- Passenger Multi-Adjustable Power Seat
- Power Adjustable Exterior Mirror
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Please call to verify all options, prices, makes and models are accurate. Auto Expo USA does its best to verify all information at all times. Occasionally a mistake is made, and we will do our best to correct any and all mistakes prior to sale. Any questions please ask for a manager at any time.


text:
Nashville Landscaping Company
When You Look Good, We Look Good
With the fierce competition of today's commercial and residential markets, the way your property looks is more important than ever.
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With education being a hot issue this legislative session, some politicians are looking at the basics of learning in their effort to improve student outcomes. Today, the Senate Education Committee held its first hearing on a bill that would establish a reading program targeted at kindergarteners through third graders.
Gary Stevens chairs that committee, and he's sponsoring the bill. The goal is to reach struggling students early, instead of playing a difficult and costly game of catch-up.
"You would think everyone who's an adult out there with a job can read, but it appears that's not always the case,
says Stevens. "There are people struggling somewhere along the way, they didn't pick up that ability, and have never since."
The bill is based on a literacy law that's on the books in Colorado, and it would require school districts to conduct reading assessments to identify students who are behind. Those students would be given extra support in getting up to grade level.
During the hearing, Stevens said that many Alaska school districts are already taking those steps with their students, but acknowledged that it could be a challenge for smaller districts to comply with the legislation.
The Department of Education is reserving judgment on the bill.
"Is it the absolute right direction? I think it'd be interesting to hear from districts," says Les Morse, a deputy commissioner with the department. "But there are some very good and important approaches to reading instruction that are embedded within this legislation."
If approved, the reading program is expected to cost the state $200,000.
According to a report released this week by the Annie E. Casey Foundation, Alaska is in the bottom ten states for childhood reading proficiency. About three-quarters of Alaska students are not reading at grade level, which is slightly up from a decade ago.


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Save time by designing a master project, then easily convert the project to another Motion project type like a template, which is then available to use immediately in a Final Cut Pro project.
Convert your project
In the Motion project that you want to publish as a Final Cut Pro template, choose File > Convert To, then choose one of the following template types:
To create a custom stylized effect that you can apply to clips in the Final Cut Pro X Timeline, choose Effect . An effect template must contain an Effect Source placeholder. Choose one of the following from the Effect Source pop-up:
- If you want to add an image or video to customize the effect in Final Cut Pro, choose New Effect Source. In Final Cut Pro, you can then drag an image onto the placeholder.
- If you want to use image already in your Motion project as a placeholder, choose the image layer name.
- If you want to add an existing drop zone, choose the drop zone name.
To use a Motion project as a title template, choose Title. When converting a Motion project to a title template, you can choose to add a placeholder, you can use an image already in your Motion project as a placeholder, or choose not to have a placeholder. Choose an option from the Title Source pop-up, then click Convert.
If you choose to add placeholder, you can add an image to the template's placeholder in Final Cut Pro. You can also replace the text, change the font and font size, and make other adjustments to the title.
To convert a Motion project into a Final Cut Transition template, choose Transition. the Motion project must contain a Transition A placeholder and a Transition B placeholder. When converting, you can choose to add empty placeholders, or to use images already in your project. Choose the appropriate options from the Transitions A and B pop-ups, then click Convert.
To use a generator you created in Motion as template in Final Cut Pro, choose Generator. You can use a generator template as a background for your project, added to the Timeline, or composited over a clip in the Timeline.
Publish the converted project
After you've converted your project, Choose File > Save. Enter a name, choose or create a new category, and choose or create a new theme. Select any other options, then click Publish.
You can access the new Motion template in the designated category in the appropriate browser or sidebar in Final Cut Pro.


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LOS ANGELES – The Houstonian in Houston, TX; the Park Hyatt at Bellevue in Philadelphia; and the Four Seasons in San Francisco topped the list of the 2006 Best Hotel Gyms in the United States.
Athletic-Minded Traveler, a southern California-based active lifestyle media company that operates a healthy travel site on the Web, released the rankings after research on more than 3,000 hotels and anonymous personal tours. Selection criteria included facility size, equipment quantities, multi-sport options (e.g., lap pool, sport court, etc.) and overall ambiance/atmosphere. To be considered as a hotel gym, the facility must have been located on hotel property or within an adjacent building.
Here's the complete list:
1. Houstonian (Houston)
2. Park Hyatt at Bellevue (Philadelphia)
3. Four Seasons (San Francisco)
4. Embassy Suites Lakefront (Chicago)
5. Venetian (Las Vegas)
6. Bellevue Club (Bellevue, WA)
7. Inn at Ponte Vedra (Ponte Vedra Beach, FL)
8. Grand Hotel (Minneapolis)
9. JW Marriott (Orlando)
10. Ritz Carlton Boston Common (Boston)
11. Le Parker Meridien (New York)


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Washington Sq. redesign to go public; some think its too late
January 19 -25, 2005
By Lincoln Anderson
As plans for the refurbishment of Washington Sq. Park are set for a public unveiling early next month, The Villager has learned essential details of the projects design.
At the same time, after getting his first look at the design on Jan. 6, Clay Bushong, a co-chairperson of the Washington Sq. Park Council and a member of the Community Board 2 task force that has been discussing the project in private meetings for the past year, abruptly resigned in frustration from the Council. Bushong said he felt the redesign process has not been public enough and specifically expressed dissatisfaction with plans for the parks dog run and two playgrounds.
The design will be presented at C.B. 2s Parks Committee on Feb. 2 at a location probably somewhere in New York University to be determined.
The Villager spoke to Bill Castro, Manhattan borough Parks Department commissioner; Bushong and the other two co-chairpersons of the Washington Sq. Park Council; Aubrey Lees, C.B. 2s Parks Committee chairperson; and Michael Haberman, N.Y.U. director of government and community relations, regarding the details of the plan. Lees and Haberman are co-chairpersons of the C.B. 2 Washington Sq. Task Force.
A main feature of the plan for the 11-acre, landmarked park is to raise its sunken central plaza to grade. Also, as currently configured, the parks two dog runs one for regular-sized dogs and one for small dogs will be put next to each other and relocated to the parks southern perimeter across from Judson Church. The Teen Plaza, a raised area in the parks southeastern area near LaGuardia Pl., on which the Washington Sq. Music Festival performs, will be replaced with a lawn. The statues of Garibaldi and Holley in the centers of the two ovals to the east and west of the central plaza will be moved to the ovals north edges, opening sightlines and creating potential small performance spaces. The plan currently has no provision for restoring the mounds the dilapidated childrens climbing hills that are subject of periodic eruptions by parents who want them renovated. Under the design, the mounds would become another grassy lawn. In addition, the plan calls for a waist-high, wrought-iron fence to replace the current pipe railing around the parks perimeter. The Parks Department is also considering reducing the number of chess tables in the park to cut down on chess hustling and also because its felt some of the parks drug-dealing scene is mixed in among the chess tables. Some trees could potentially be removed to open up sightlines, but this has not been determined yet.
A Parks spokesperson said the department is not making the plan available prior to the Feb. 2 C.B. 2 Parks Committee meeting.
Bushong, who is also vice president of the Washington Sq. Park dog run, said, while Parks is saying the dog runs wont lose any square footage, hes upset at the spaces shape, which he likened to a narrow racetrack with nooks and crannies where dogs will be hidden from owners view. He assured that the dog run group will turn out in force at the Parks Committee meeting. The dog run was originally planned for the parks southeast corner, but was moved as Haberman confirmed to The Villager because N.Y.U. feels its inappropriate to have a dog run near its Bobst Library.
Bushong and the other two co-chairpersons of the Washington Sq. Park Council, Sara Goodman and Matt Bardin, also are concerned whether the parks two playgrounds will get renovated as part of the parks refurbishment. Bushong said Parks told him the Washington Sq. Park Council will have to raise the funds separately for the playgrounds. So far, the Council has raised $250,000 for the parks redesign.
All of them parents with young children, Bushong, Goodman and Bardin got involved with the Washington Sq. Park Council after attending a meeting on the parks redesign last December. Bushong said he had been told that helping fundraise for the park would get him a seat at the table in the redesign, but he now feels cheated.
For her part, Goodman says the redesign is good and thinks people will like it. Bardins opinion is somewhere in the middle of Bushong and Goodman, with Bushong clearly the most disillusioned at the results so far.
Lees said she favors the idea of opening up the park and creating more green space. She said she is not sorry that the mounds which she called huge, old, falling-apart tar pits or tar mounds are not being renovated. She said she feels the process has been public and that the upcoming board meetings in February will give the community a chance to weigh in on the plan. Asked if there would be any more meetings than those in February, she said its possible. Asked if Board 2 would sponsor a special public hearing as the board often does for important or contentious issues devoted to Washington Sq. Park, Lees said the upcoming Parks Committee meeting will be exactly such a public hearing.
The emphasis is on refurbishing and making repairs to the park its nothing drastic, Lees said. Nothings been etched in stone. It reflects what a park should be, which is green and open and fixed up, with places to sit and not falling apart.
However, Lees did stress an urgency to get moving, noting that a delay could possibly cause the loss of money that has been allocated for the project.
Haberman similarly said he felt the process has been going very well and is ongoing and there will be chance for public input. He stressed that the current design is a master plan that can be elaborated on.
Castro said he plans to meet with both the dog run group and the Washington Sq. Park Council about the playgrounds as early as next week. As for the playgrounds, he said they may well be included in the parks rehab, but that this is still being worked out. Castro said hes not unsympathetic to the chess tables, either, noting that his uncle, Tony Ribando, a former president of the famed Marshall Chess Club on W. 10th St., is a daily regular at the tables.
Castro said the park project will be done in two phases, so as to keep half the park open at any given time. The intent is to start the first phase in June, five months from now, finishing in nine months to a year, Castro said. The next phase would start immediately after and take about as long. The project currently is budgeted at $16 million, with a $4 million maintenance endowment. Castro said about $6.5 million has been raised so far between private and government monies.
Bushong, who attended almost all the task force meetings, claims there was frequently talk of the need to keep the crazies and the mounds people out of the process, so that it would not get derailed.
Every meeting we had there was a reference to the mounds people, that they controlled too much [park area], he noted.
He said at one point, someone on the task force referred to the more involved community process for designing the Hudson River Park, derisively noting how there had even been a Screw Committee to select which screws would be used in the park.
Castro and Haberman said they didnt recall any talk about crazies, mounds people or a Screw Committee at the meetings.
Mounds advocate Eliza Nichols, associate provost of New School University, whose father, landscape architect Robert Nichols, was a part of the community-led redesign of the park in 1970, said she was not surprised to hear the mounds were not in the current plan. She said she hopes Castro and Parks Commissioner Adrian Benepe are men of their word and fulfill earlier promises to restore the mounds.
Bushong and the Washington Sq. Park Council had wanted to have the Project for Public Spaces get involved in the redesign, but as of now, P.P.S. will only conduct a forum on programming in the park. Yet, Castro said the idea was always to have P.P.S. only deal with programming.
Lees is sure people will support the plan once they see it.
People should look at it before they have a nervous breakdown, she said. I dont know anyone who would object to more grass in Washington Sq. Park.
Similarly, to Bushong and others who are already starting to worry, Castro urged calm. Everyone should just take a chill pill and relax, he said. We want to move the project along, but we want to make sure there is consensus among everyone as we move this project forward.
The Villager


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Compare cheap flights from Cairns to Wellington
When is the cheapest time to fly to Wellington?
What to do in Wellington
Wellington is the stunning capital city of New Zealand. It's also known as the country's "Windy City" and it's home to beautiful scenery, with many arts and cultural attractions. It would make a culture and nature lover out of anyone, including you.
History buffs and Instagrammers will both love going through Wellington's landmarks. Feel history come alive at Plimmer's Ark. Have a lovely tour of the Parliament Buildings. And nearby, there's the stunning and iconic Old Saint Paul's.
For even better travel photos of Wellington, bring your camera to the Botanic Garden. Then you should head next to the city's lookout points. Enjoy the lovely scenery as you ride the Wellington Cable Car. Climb Mount Victoria for panoramic views of the city. And don't forget the views of Mount Kaukau too.
Want to see how the kiwis live in Wellington? Go ahead and join the city's awesome events like Becks Incredible Film Festival, the New Zealand International Arts Festival, the Cuba Street Carnival, and the annual Wellington Sevens rugby tournament.
If you want a more relaxed approach for getting to know the locals, go shopping! Grab your wallet and head to Lambton Quay shopping street, Cuba Street, Grey Town, Lower Hutt, and Tinakori Road. Are you a night owl shopper? No worries because the city has the Wellington Night Market for you.
Get more travel tips and ideas with this list of reasons to love Wellington city.
When to visit Wellington
The best time to visit Wellington weather-wise is from February to March when you can enjoy the right amount of warmth for exploring the city and still sleep comfortably and cosy at night. If you want to save some extra money, our website shows that the cheapest time to fly to Wellington is on August and September.
Good news! You can fly to New Zealand and visit Wellington any time because Australian citizens can travel to the land of kiwi visa-free. But make sure your passport is valid on the day of your arrival in New Zealand. Check out Smartraveller for more info.
Travelling to and around Wellington
Once you've arrived in Wellington International Airport, you can reach the city by taxi, shuttle, and the Airport Flyer express bus. Travelling around Wellington is easy too with the Metlink, bus, train, cable car, taxi, ferry, and exploring by foot.
Have a swell time in New Zealand's Wellington city! Grab your passport now and book your Wellington flights with Skiddoo.
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MCLEAN, Va. – Gannett Co., the owner of USA Today and other newspapers and television stations, reported a 53 per cent increase in first-quarter net income Tuesday. The results were boosted by a one-time tax benefit and new fees to access many of Gannett's newspaper websites.
The media company said it earned $104.6 million, or 44 cents per share, in the January-March period. That was up from $68.2 million, or 28 cents per share, a year earlier.
Revenue grew 1.6 per cent to $1.24 billion from $1.22 billion.
Excluding one-time items, mainly consisting of the tax benefit, Gannett earned $86 million, or 37 cents per share, in the quarter. The comparable figures a year ago were $80.8 million or 34 cents per share. Analysts were expecting earnings of 35 cents per share on revenue of $1.24 billion, according to analysts surveyed by FactSet.
Gannett, based in McLean, Virginia, has instituted a number changes recently aimed at boosting revenue. It began charging readers for online access to news content last year by erecting so-called paywalls at most of its newspapers, although not at USA Today. At the same time, the company raised prices of single-copy newspapers and print subscriptions.
The new subscription model is helping to balance a continued decline in advertising. Revenue in the publishing division fell just 0.3 per cent to $871.2 million from the same period a year ago. The division broke a long streak of year-over-year revenue declines in the fourth quarter of last year, when it posted a 4 per cent increase. The publishing division accounts for 70 per cent of Gannett's overall revenue. Domestic publishing revenue was up slightly, for the first time since 2006.
Broadcasting revenue rose 8.7 per cent to $191.6 million, helped by increased retransmission fees from cable and satellite companies.
Digital revenue grew 3.9 per cent to $174.9 million, mainly due to growth at job-seeking site CareerBuilder.
Gannett's stock fell 4 per cent, or 74 cents, to $20.29 in afternoon trading.


text: App: Space Settlers (Free) Category: Games Released: Dec 27, 2012 Version: 1.0 Size: 63.1 MB Language: English Seller: Han Zhicai © Digiarty Requirements: Compatible with iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, iPhone 5, iPod touch (3rd generation), iPod touch (4th generation), iPod touch (5th generation) and iPad. Requires iOS 4.3 or later. This app is optimized for iPhone 5. Space Settlers is an online multi-player Sci-Fi game for iOS iPhone iPad, featuring "mecha combat and real-time strategy". ★ ★ With exquisite, dynamic and sharp picture and next-gen style, this game will bring you an extraordinary visual impact. ★ ★ Space Settlers is diverse and easy to play. If you are an online Sci-Fi game novice, it is absolutely worth your first try. Pick up [Space Settlers] for you iPhone, iPhone5, iPad /Mini or iPod touch on App Store: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id586157383?mt=8 Watch YouTube Video at: ====================== Story ====================== People in the whole world have been fascinated with God Particle since its first appearance in 2012. Scientist Hawking, by linking his brain with the most powerful computer in the world, made a great contribution to theoretical physics, proving that the God Particle captured can be dated back to 13 billion years. Time Gate was held open for human beings! Hawking predicted that dark energy existed in the form of crystal at the infancy of the universe and named it "Dark Energy Crystal", which has become the most powerful energy source in universe since expeditionary force first carried it from ancient relic to earth. The ancient people in Terra left extraordinary technological remains, and thereafter the First Space Settler Age began. ====================== Gameplay ====================== ★ Mecha refitting: It is possible for you to not only get the blueprints of as many as 25 types of mecha chariots free with the increase of tech levels, but also refit every chariot as you wish. You can create unique mecha chariots with over 100 accessories provided. ★ Multi-player battlefield: It enables you to drive chariots, launch attacks and occupy planets in person. The planet battlefield of real-time strategy type with intelligent locking and attack is extremely easy to play. ★ Legion & legion war: Target planets can be attacked and occupied by legions composed of settlers. You as well can be one of them to engage in the fights for resources to make a contribution to your legion and get resource rewards. ★ Cool: It is splendid and dazzling in color and style. ★ Vivid social contacts: Each player can build friend groups and make invitations to friends for the team-up of advanced fort fighting. It offers optimized chat system and auto enemy planet search function. You can give ★ resource and material to friends as gifts, or send mecha and accessories to them effortlessly. ★ Offline upgrade: With complete online multi-task upgrade and manufacturing system, it well satisfies online base construction demand and suits casual gamers. More information please vsite: Pick up [Space Settlers] for you iPhone, iPhone5, iPad /Mini or iPod touch on App Store: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id586157383?mt=8


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There are a sheer number of projects that you can do inside your properties. But works that involve the electrical system is best left to an expert so as not to compromise the safety and well-being of your loved ones and your property. When electrical issues are present in residential, commercial or industrial buildings, you need to call in a professional and licensed electrician.
Choosing a reliable electrician is important. To help you in your search, here are some questions you can ask your prospective power expert:
What appropriate licenses do you have? This is the first thing you should ask because electrical work is a high-risk job. You would not want electrical jobs in your property to cause accidents or even fatalities. Appropriate licenses will prove a true professional electrician. While this varies from one state to another, you would know if your chosen electrician is qualified to do the work or not. Additionally, you would know if you need to get a permit before the electrical job commences.
Do you have insurance to cover the job? Due to the nature of electrical works, accident may happen as a result of his work. Know that insurance will not only ensure your electrician's safety but also take responsibility for whatever damage the job may cause to your property. Safety should be the primary concern here.
What other electrical works have you done in the past? In most cases, the variety of electrical works that your chosen professional has done will suffice. For the technical works that you require, opt for a professional who has extensive experience.
Who will work with you? When you are hiring from a firm, they usually have a roster of electricians. It is a good idea to ask who will work inside your home or office. The one you are talking to when you enquire may not be the person who will do job. So talk to the actual electrician who will perform the electrical works before hiring the firm.
Can you provide some references? Note that quality of a company's work and professionalism can be seen through the references they will provide. Those who have been in the business for a long time will readily show you their extensive list of past and current clients.
The process of choosing an electrician should not be rushed. This needs careful research and vetting in order to guarantee both safety and quality work. Before making a final choice, ask the questions above. A reputable electrician or firm will answer you with confidence and pride.
Source by Denis K Dresser
This blog is made available by BC High Light Electric for educational purposes only to give the reader general information and a general understanding on the specific subject above. The blog should not be used as a substitute for a licensed electrical professional in your city or region. Check with city laws before performing any household project.