text:
The present invention is a method for scheduling an event or meeting consisting of a plurality of persons which is determined by optimizing one or more variables. In the preferred embodiment, one or more requests for a meeting are pooled. A selected variable is optimized and an event is scheduled on the optimized variable. As additional meeting requests are pooled which conflict with the initial optimized event, the selected variable is again optimized and the event is dynamically rescheduled based on the optimized variable.
1. A method of event scheduling comprising:
receiving at least one request for scheduling a calendar meeting;
receiving at least two meeting constraints;
using optimization means to schedule said calendar meeting to satisfy said at least two constraints.
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28. The method of claims 26 and 27 wherein the weighting factors are stored in templates.
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37. An automated method of event scheduling comprising:
a computing system receiving at least one request for scheduling a calendar meeting;
said computing system receiving at least two meeting constraints;
said computing system using an automated optimization means to schedule said calendar meeting to satisfy said at least two constraints.
38. A system for event scheduling comprising:
a computing system having means for receiving at least one request for scheduling a calendar meeting;
said computing system having means for receiving at least two meeting constraints;
said computing system having an automated optimization means to schedule said calendar meeting to satisfy said at least two constraints.
[0001] 1. Technical Field
[0002] The present invention relates to scheduling management, and, more particularly, to a system and method for optimizing the scheduling of calendar meeting events.
[0003] 2. Description of Related Art
[0004] Scheduling events for which a plurality of personnel are required to attend is quite difficult in today's fast paced work environment. Due to the increasing pace of information transfer and conduct of business, scheduling an acceptable time and location for a plurality of people to conduct a meeting typically involves accounting for many different variables that may affect a person's ability to travel and meet at the specified location at the specified meeting time. These variables include travel schedules, working periods, convenience of meeting locations and, of course, other commitments. As a result, calendar meetings are often rescheduled at least once, if not several times, before the meeting is conducted.
[0005] Scheduling planning routines and methods are known in the art. Computer programs for scheduling meetings are available that allow users to schedule meetings based on electronic calendars stored for office employees. The program maintains a schedule for each individual, and provides schedule information to users who are planning meetings. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,093,813 discloses an electronic scheduler that allows a caller using a telephone to remotely make appointments. The electronic scheduler can automatically select an appointment time for the caller to meet with a single individual, such as a doctor. However, the scheduler cannot select a common meeting time for the caller and a plurality of other attendees. This drawback limits the usefulness of the scheduler in an office environment. Likewise, no provision is made for a plurality of persons requesting a meeting to schedule that meeting based on selected variables such as time, length, or location which are then optimized to produce the most convenient meeting for all persons requesting the meeting.
[0006] Accordingly, a need exists for a method of scheduling events among a plurality of persons by optimizing a selected variable or variables to establish a convenient time for the occurrence of an event. Further, a need exists for a method of dynamically scheduling an event among a plurality of persons based on at least one optimized variable. The terms event, meeting, and calendar meeting are interrupted as having similar meanings for the purposes of the invention herein.
[0007] The present invention is a method for scheduling an event or meeting consisting of a plurality of persons which is determined by optimizing one or more variables. In the preferred embodiment, one or more requests for a meeting are pooled. A selected variable(s) is optimized and an event is scheduled on the optimized variable. As additional meeting requests are pooled which conflict with the initial optimized event, the selected variable(s) is again optimized and the event is dynamically rescheduled based on the optimized variable.
[0008] The novel features believed characteristic of the invention are set forth in the appended claims. The invention itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0009]FIG. 1 is a diagram of a network in which the present invention may be implemented;
[0010]FIG. 2 depicts a user display page showing an interface which might be presented to a user for the purpose of requesting the scheduling of a meeting;
[0011]FIG. 3 is a detailed block diagram illustrating the scheduling method disclosed herein; and,
[0012]FIG. 4 illustrates a flow diagram of a method of optimizing pooled meeting requests as disclosed herein; and,
[0013]FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating an alternative embodiment of the method disclosed herein.
[0014] Turning to FIG. 1, a network diagram in which the present invention may be implemented is shown. FIG. 1 is a pictorial representation of a distributed data processing system. Distributed data processing system 100 contains a network 102, which is the medium used to provide communications links between various devices and computers connected together within distributed data processing system 100. Network 102 may include permanent connections, such as wire or fiber optic cables, or temporary connections made through telephone connections.
[0015] In the depicted example, a scheduler 104 and database 106 are connected to network 102. The scheduler 104 is a software application as is known in the art which provides the client(s) 108, 110, 112, which are also identified herein as �attendees� and �requesters�, with multiple functions such as an e-mail, calendar, date book, and task manager. Scheduler 104 may be located on a corporate server, personal computer or be a third party service providing scheduling services to clients 108, 110, 112. Clients 108, 110, 112 may be, for example, personal computers, network computers, wireless phones or personal digital devices with access to private and public networks with more than one individual client. For purposes of this application, a network computer is any computer coupled to the network 102. Distributed data processing system 100 may also include additional servers, clients, and other devices not shown. The invention may be easily implemented by one skilled in the art using known programming techniques and equipment.
[0016] In the depicted example, distributed data processing system 100 is the Internet, with network 102 representing a worldwide collection of networks and gateways that use the TCP/IP suite of protocols to communicate with one another. At the heart of the Internet is a backbone of high-speed data communication lines between major nodes or host computers, consisting of thousands of commercial, government, education, and other computer systems that route data and messages. Of course, distributed data processing system 100 also may be implemented as a number of different types of networks, such as, for example, an intranet, a local area network (LAN), or a wide area network (WAN). FIG. 1 is intended as an example and not as an architectural limitation for the present invention. For example, the basis for implementation might be a private network within a company, at one location or several, which may or may not be connected to the public Internet. Furthermore, the basis may be a shared (�timeshared�) computing system which interacts with individual users through the use of terminals or computers.
[0017]FIG. 2 shows an example of a client software interface 200 which provides an electronic input mechanism for a user to input information variables for the purpose of requesting the scheduling of a meeting. The information input by the client constitutes a variable which is optimized according to the preferences input by the client. For example, FIG. 2 depicts the specification of meeting participants either by name, group, department or by some other description, and the specification of alternate attendees (e.g. Fred Barnes or Larry Jacobs) 202. For each attendee, the interface 200 allows specification as to whether the attendance of that person is mandatory, desirable, or optional and also allows specification that the participation of an attendee by alternative electronic means, such as a telephone, is acceptable 204. In the latter case, the corresponding person's location or travel time would not be included in any scheduling optimization, but his availability (according to the mandatory/desirable/optional setting) would be included in the optimization. Note that the words attendee and participant are used in the same sense. A person may be an attendee or participant without being physically present at a meeting or event. For example, a person may participate or attend by means of a phone or computer network.
[0018] The interface 200 allows an attendee to specify an earliest and/or latest date for the meeting to take place, as well as an ideal target date for the meeting to occur 206. The interface allows any or all of these variables to be included or omitted in the determination of an optimized meeting. A preferred time 208 may also be specified, as may a preferred or mandatory location 210. Finally, a meeting topic or title may be included to identify the context in which the meeting will be conducted 214. When a condition (place, date, time, person's participation) is mandatory, it participates as a mandatory constraint in establishing the list of possible meeting arrangements, but does not normally participate in the optimization, since there is no opportunity to change the value of that variable. In other words, the system described can operate in a somewhat �degenerate� mode where no true optimization is performed, but a meeting is scheduled at a possible date, time and place. Alternatively, an attendee may mark a scheduled meeting as either flexible or not. An event which is flexible is one that may be dynamically rescheduled if, for instance, the event is marked flexible by all of the other attendee's calendars and it can be rescheduled while still honoring the original meeting request constraints. In contrast, meetings denoted as inflexible are not capable of being dynamically rescheduled as contemplated by the invention set forth herein. As a result, a meeting marked as inflexible will occur at the specified time and place regardless of whether or not all attendees are capable of being present at the meeting.
[0019] With reference to FIG. 3, a flow diagram of the method disclosed herein is shown. Initially, it is noted that the specific formulation of an optimization problem for scheduling a meeting request will depend on the specific collection of variables input by the client in that meeting request as set forth in FIG. 2. For instance, a meeting request which specifies a specific target date tries to minimize the amount of time (hours, days) away from that target that the meeting is scheduled. A meeting which has optional participants tries to maximize (within the other constraints) the number of participants who can attend. All optimizations of meeting requests try to minimize the total distance traveled by participants who attend physically. Requests which have more than one of these constraints try to minimize a combination of variables, such as the sum of minutes away from target date and total number of feet to be walked, or miles to be driven, to attend the meeting. In this example, clients submit meeting requests to the scheduler for a particular list of attendees, and possibly also specifying a preferred date, time and location (Step 302). The scheduler is also given access, by an appropriate means, to the calendars of the individuals who are on the list of attendees. The scheduler pools the requests and weighs the variables representing the requested meeting dates, times and locations and then schedules a meeting in view of the optimized variables (Step 306). The weighting of variables may be based on many different criteria including, but not limited to, a person's corporate title, location, past participation in meetings or lack thereof. Likewise, variables may be weighted according to the size of the meeting room, the availability of A/V, audio/visual equipment (e.g. stereo sound systems or projectors), the acoustical properties of the meeting room, or the cost of the meeting. Alternatively, virtual meetings over phone or computer networks may be scheduled without the need for a physical meeting location. It is also contemplated by the invention herein that weighting variables is dynamic and may change over time, and may be different for different meetings. Thus, for some meetings the proximity of the location may be the most important attribute, while for others the availability of a particular piece of equipment in a meeting room may be important. Additionally, many different weighting factors, like the ones previously discussed, may be stored in an electronic template which may be accessed and exchanged by network users or attendees when requesting or scheduling a meeting.
[0020] After the meeting is scheduled, the scheduler may continue to receive additional meeting requests from other attendees or updated meeting requests from current attendees which are then pooled with the previously submitted meeting requests (Step 308). The scheduler again optimizes the pooled requests and may dynamically reschedule previously arranged meetings. In the event no additional requests are submitted within the time frame allowed by the scheduler for pooling requests, the meeting date, time and location is confirmed by broadcasting a message to all attendees of the scheduled meeting (Step 310). The broadcasting or notification may be to meeting participants, a calendar (e.g. a calendar stored within a computing system including a system or systems which contain the calendars of the participants), or a third party providing services to facilitate the meeting. The participants for the meeting who have authorized automatic entry (into their calendars) may be scheduled automatically or sent invitations, but electronic invitations may be sent to other attendees or alternatively others are either sent requests for information about availability, or are sent a tentative invitation.
[0021]FIG. 4 is a flowchart depiction of the optimization architecture utilized by the method disclosed herein. Initially, the scheduler receives the pooled requests from persons desirous of scheduling a meeting (Step 402). The pooled requests are analyzed by the scheduler wherein selected variables such as meeting date, time and location are represented as variables (Step 404). The variables representing the requested variables of the meeting are compared and optimized by linear programming or other similar statistical algorithms which are well known in the art (Step 406). Based on the results of the optimization process, the scheduler schedules the event or meeting to occur at the determined date, time and location (Step 408).
[0022] The optimization may be performed using any one of a number of nontrivial mathematical techniques including integer programming, linear programming, deterministic optimization, priority-based search heuristics, greedy algorithms, randomized algorithms, local search methods, meta-heuristics, tabu search, evolutionary algorithms, genetic algorithms, simulated annealing, agent-based algorithms, portfolio optimization, simulation, stochastic optimization, forecasting analysis. These mathematical techniques may be used to calculate an optimization for two or more constraints.
[0023] The following discussion uses integer programming in order to optimize the embodiment set forth in FIG. 2.
[0024] Let E={1, 2, . . . , N} be the set of the plurality of personnel (e.g., E could be all personnel in a company), and P={1, 2, . . . , p} be the subset of E which include all potential participants for the event under consideration. For the sample problem, P={Joe Smith, Mary Jones, Fred Barnes, Larry Jacobs, People in Sales Dept, People reporting to Joe Smith}.
[0025] In the following description, the symbol U indicates the union of sets. The symbol ε means set membership.
[0026] For the formulation of the sample problem, it is helpful to decompose P into P={Joe Smith, Mary Jones} ∪P1∪P2∪P3, where P1={Fred Barnes, Larry Jacobs}, P2={People in Sales Dept}, and P3={People reporting to Joe Smith}. The rationale for this decomposition will become clear later. We will use index p for participants.
[0027] In order to formulate the problem, we must first come up with a representation of a schedule which captures the availability of each participant. Let D={1, 2, . . . , 365} be the set of days in a calendar year with dεD representing the dth day of a year. For the purpose of formulating the sample request, d=1 means January 1, . . . , d=62 means March 3, and d=69 means March 10, etc. We assume 9 working hours (from 8 AM to 5 PM), and the minimum meeting duration is 15 minutes (other cases can be modeled with little modification). Therefore, every day is divided into 36 (=4�9) time slots. Let T={1, 2, . . . 36} be the set of slots, where 1 means 8:00-8:15 AM, 2 means 8:15-8:30 AM, etc. Moreover, T=M∪A with M={1, 2, . . . , 16} representing morning time slots and A={17, 18, . . . , 36} the set of slots for afternoon. The variable t indexes time slots. The schedule for person p can thus be represented as a 365�36 2-dimensional 0-1 array in a schedule database, where:
[0028] Therefore, scheduling for a person means finding some pdt that is 1 and changing it to 0, and deleting a schedule means changing the value of pdt from 0 to 1 in the database (so that the time slot t on the dth day is available for a new request). Furthermore, let L={1, 2 . . . lmax} be the set of all potential meeting locations. The availability of a location (indexed by 1) is also represented as a 365�36 0-1 array in a resource database, where:
[0029] The availability of other resources (e.g., equipment, facilitators, etc.) for meeting can be represented similarly and stored in the resource availability database.
[0030] Inputs to the Model (Words in �( )� are the Values for the Sample Request in FIG. 2)
[0031] 1. From the request for meeting in FIG. 2:
[0032] P={participants} ({Joe Smith, Mary Jones} ∪P1∪P2∪P3, where P1={Fred Barnes, Larry Jacobs}, P2={People in Sales Dept}, and P3={People reporting to Joe Smith}).
[0033] ED=earliest date (March 3, i.e., d=62)
[0034] LD=latest date (March 10, i.e., d=69)
[0035] Ta=Target date (March 10, i.e., d=69)
[0036] PT=Preferred time which is a subset of T (morning, i.e., PT=M)
[0037] PL=Preferred location which is a subset of L (auditorium, i.e., PL={1})
[0038] D=Duration of the meeting which is represented as the number of time slots (1 hour=4, i.e., 4 time slots of 15-minute length).
[0039] 2. From the schedule database and resource availability database:
[0040] pdt for every pεP, dεD, tεT.
[0041] ldt for every lεL, dεD, tεT.
[0042] and any other resources.
[0043] Decision Variables
[0044] The scheduling decision is to decide when and where the event should occur, and who among the potential participants should attend. Let spdtl, be a binary variable with:
[0045] A schedule is completely specified by the value of spdtl. Therefore, the scheduling software or tool defines the optimal schedule by determining 0 or 1 to each spdtl.
[0046] Objective Functions
[0047] Any item in a meeting request can either be modeled as a constraint or be a term in the objective function. The objectives may include maximizing the number of attendees, minimizing travel time, minimizing wait time, maximizing contiguous meeting time, choosing a preferred meeting location, minimizing the variance from a preferred meeting time. Therefore, there are many possible formulations to any meeting request. To highlight the multiple-criteria feature of the problem, we choose two items of the request on FIG. 2 as objectives.
[0048] Objective I: Maximize the Attendance of the People who are Desirable or Optional for the Event, i.e.,
[0049] In other words, we wish to maximize the variable Z1 which is the number of desirable and optional participants who can attend. This is expressed as the summation of the number of elements with value 1 in the decision variable s.
[0050] Objective II: Schedule the Event as Close as Possible to the Target Date, i.e.,
[0051] Here the summation over d gives the exact day on which the meeting will occur; the variable Z2 gives the closeness of the targeted day with the scheduled meeting day.
[0052] With more than one objective, the problem is a multi-objective optimization problem. There is a rich Operations Research literature dealing with solving this kind of problem. One possibility is to optimize the weighted average of all objectives with weights representing some business value/rules or decision making criteria. In this sample treatment, we assume this is the case and the objective is to:
Max Z=α*Z 1 +β*Z 2
[0053] Where weights α and β represent the relative importance of Z1 and Z2, whose values are determined by some business rules.
[0054] Constraints
[0055] The constraints may include such parameters as meeting duration, earliest date, latest date, mandatory attendees, participant availability, preferred time, preferred location, the meeting must occur by a specified time, last for a determined duration, must occur before a specified event, there is a requirement to schedule a recurring meeting, or that the scheduling request is not negotiable. The sample requests use the following constraints:
[0056] The mandatory attendance of Joe Smith, of a representative from Sales Dept, and of Fred Barnes or Larry Jacobs is translated into three groups of constraints:
Spdtl>=1, for p={Joe Smith} and all dεD, tεT, lεL
[0058] By forcing Spdtl>=1 for p=Joe Smith, we ensure that Joe must attend the meeting. Similarly, the other two inequalities ensure at least one representative from Sales Dept, and Fred Barnes or Larry Jacobs to attend the meeting.
[0059] Earliest-date and latest-date constraints:
[0060] The above summary gives the date on which the meeting occurs. And the inequalities ensure that meeting will occur between 62th day (March 3) and 69th day (March 10). Please note that target date is translated into a term in the objective function of Z, thus there is no constraint for �target date� in this formulation.
[0061] Preferred-Time Constraints:
[0062] Since the sum over morning time slots is not less than the sum over afternoon slots, the above inequality gives preferred time (for the meeting) to morning time.
[0063] Preferred-Location Constraints: (backslash notation means L excluding the auditorium)
Spdt{auditorium}≧Spdtl for all pεP, dεD, tεT, lεL\{auditorium}
[0064] This constraint assigns preferred location to auditorium over any other locations.
[0065] Duration Constraints:
[0066] The sum at the left-hand side represents the number of time slots for the meeting. By equaling it to 4, this specifies 1 hour meeting duration (four 15-minute time slots).
[0067] Participants-Availability Constraints:
Spdtl<Pdt for all pεP, dεD, tεT, lεL
[0068] A participant can only attend a meeting when she is available (i.e., pdt=1). This constraint ensures that the meeting will occur at the free time of every participant.
[0069] Resource-Availability Constraints:
Spdtl≦ldt for all pεP, dεD, tεT, lεL
[0070] Similarly, this constraint ensures that a location can be used (for this particular meeting) only when it is available (i.e., ldt=1).
[0071]FIG. 5 sets forth an alternative embodiment of the method of optimizing pooled meeting requests as discussed herein. Initially, multiple requests for a meeting are accepted and pooled by the scheduler (Step 502). Next, meeting variables or constraints such as maximum or minimum meeting attendance, maximum or minimum travel times, closest or �nearest in� meeting dates are collected and formulated into a problem statement (Step 504).
[0072] The scheduling optimization may include allowing for travel time of a participant of the meeting, between a previously or next scheduled location and the selected meeting place. It is also possible to provide for scheduling public meetings with no specific list of committed or required attendees, but where a list of likely attendees provides a list of calendars whose previously scheduled events are to be avoided in scheduling a meeting. The scheduling optimization may also take into account public meetings for which some or all of the attendees may have a likely interest in attending even though no specific commitment to attend them exists. Other considerations may include the scheduling of meetings for which subsequent meetings for at least one participant are not rescheduled within a defined number of hours before they are scheduled to begin; for which the elapsed time between the placing of a request and the assignment of a meeting time or place is specified in the scheduling request; for which the time or the date by which meeting schedule must be assigned is specified in the request; for which reservations may be made for meeting location rooms such that the room is reserved for use by a particular person or persons until a determined number of hours before the scheduled meeting time, at which point it becomes available for assignment to anyone; for which the description of the desired meeting includes the most desirable location, required equipment for the room, a preferred time, or a preferred date; for which the scheduling request is for two or more meetings at different locations to be scheduled via telephone or video conference with appropriate room reservations and time zone information included; for which the submission of a request is made via e-mail, instant message or other means to each participant of the meeting prior to the attempt to schedule the meeting or event.
[0073] Using standard mathematical and analytical techniques which are well known in the art, such as linear or integer programming, an optimal solution is determined given the meeting constraints involved in the problem statement (Step 506). As alternatives to analytical determination of the optimized solution, techniques such as auctions or incentives may determine the solution for scheduling the meeting. For instance, a meeting requestor may bid for a certain location against other entities or persons requesting meetings in a particular location. Alternatively, if a meeting is scheduled, then canceled which results in the nonuse of the location, a meeting requester may incur a �penalty� for failing to remove the reservation or �hold� on the location so that others might use the location. If the solution is feasible and each meeting requestor and attendee is capable of attending the scheduled meeting, a message is broadcast to each meeting requestor and attendee indicating that a meeting has been scheduled. Likewise, each participant's calendar is then updated as authorized to indicate that the requested meeting has been scheduled between the requester and attendees (Step 508). However, if the optimal solution of the problem statement does not result in a feasible solution, one or more of the meeting variables or constraints is then removed from the problem statement and another analysis is performed until a feasible solution results (Step 510). Further, the order of processing requests within a �batch� may be chosen in a particular way, namely that requests for �near-in� meetings are processed before �further out� meetings, and meetings with more participants are processed before those with fewer. The meetings to be scheduled in a particular batch may have a priority order chosen by one of assigned priority, highest title or management level attendee, number of attendees, presence or absence of an agenda, or high priority meetings are scheduled in preference to low priority meetings. In addition in the process, the attendees may have weighting factors so that the system can determine who is most important in the scheduling optimization process; the meeting locations may have weighting factors so that the system can determine which locations are most important in the scheduling optimization process. The weighting factors may be stored in templates. Also, it may be decided that meeting times and places are optimized by auction; that scheduling a meeting and then not using the meeting room incurs a penalty, particularly if the meeting is canceled and the room reservation �hold� is removed; that the penalty is one of: monetary payment or diminished use of services. Additional considerations may include that the meeting is either a physical meeting or a virtual meeting, e.g. by remote means such as by phone. Also, the participants for the meeting may be people (humans), electronic agents, or groups of people.
[0074] In view of the disclosure set forth above, it is further noted that the optimization procedure involves attempting to schedule a meeting request with the constraints initially required by the client. If a meeting cannot be scheduled within the original constraint(s), then the method provides for the reformulation of the optimization problem based on a meeting request where some of the changeable commitments on the calendar of some of the participants are either assumed to be removed or are actually removed and the optimization is performed again. For example, if a meeting may only be scheduled after the removal of several constraints, the method disclosed herein may contemplate a secondary schedule optimization for scheduling the �removed� constraint(s), thereby minimizing the total disruption to the attendees whose calendars are changed. This process may be repeated with different subsets of attendees or groups providing the �removed� events.
[0075] Although availability, for example of meeting attendees or audio/visual equipment, has been discussed in terms of a binary �yes/no� context, it is also possible for such availability probabilistic, e.g. to be given in terms of probabilities. For example, a potential meeting attendee may indicate he or she is 70 percent likely to be available for a meeting. A computer projection unit may be 90 percent likely to be available.
[0076] Also, weather conditions and forecasts or traffic conditions and forecasts may be used in the calculations. The traffic pattern for the attendees route to the meeting may have an 80 percent likelihood for congestion. There may be a 10 percent chance inclement weather, e.g. snow or rain. These probabilities may be used to optimize meeting locations, attendees, and times. The system will also allow potential attendees to specify these various probabilities; for example, a person may indicate, using a graphical user interface element (e.g. slider, button, text), that he or she is �likely� to be available or is 80 percent likely to be available. Other criteria for meetings may also be considered during optimization. These criteria include: minimizing the fees charged for the meeting room and associated services (such as food services and writing supplies), features associated with room ambiance (e.g. lighting, window with a view, comfortable seating), and the availability of support staff (e.g. people to assist with audio/visual needs). Various characteristics of the meeting attendees may also be optimized. For example, it may be useful, necessary, or lawful to have a diverse population in the room in terms of salaries, ethnicity, age, and gender. It may also be useful to have attendees with a set of certain skills (e.g. computer programming, medical, or secretarial). These and other features may be considered during the optimization process.
[0077] It is important to note that while the present invention has been described in the context of a fully functioning data processing system, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the processes of the present invention are capable of being distributed in the form of a computer readable medium of instructions and a variety of forms and that the present invention applies equally regardless of the particular type of signal bearing media actually used to carry out the distribution. Examples of computer readable media include recordable-type media, such as a floppy disk, a hard disk drive, a RAM, CD-ROMs, DVD-ROMs, and transmission-type media, such as digital and analog communications links, wired or wireless communications links using transmission forms, such as, for example, radio frequency and light wave transmissions. The computer readable media may take the form of coded formats that are decoded for actual use in a particular data processing system.
[0078] The description of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, and is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the invention in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention, the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the invention for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.
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RADIO PRODUCTION By Bianca Miglioretto Isis International-Manila, May 2007 Source: Ethnic Public Radio Training Program PBAA I. THE RADIO PROCESS broadcasting equipment may seem somewhat intimidating thousands of people, of all ages. have become involved in broadcasting the operation of the equipment can be grasped virtually by anyone 2 The path of sound The The broadcaster communicates with the audience throughout the station's coverage area. An idea from the mind of a presenter is changed into sound waves that are picked up by a studio microphone. The electronic signal that is created may then be stored on an audio device (CD, Tape, MD, HD) or be sent directly to the transmitter. The transmitter sends out the signal, which is then received by radio sets tuned to the appropriate frequency. receiver changes the signal back to sound waves, picked up by the ears of the listener, where they are changed back to a signal to the brain where the message is registered. This process takes a fraction of a second to complete. 3 II. THE RADIO STUDIO The heart of the station A soundproofed room filled with pieces of equipment that create sound, acoustically treated to keep out or minimise unwanted noises and to avoid reflection or echoing of sounds created. will vary in layout and design. 4 BASIC TYPES OF EQUIPMENT microphones speakers headphones mixer - Turntables, Cassettes and Compact disc players (CD) to play recorded sound - Cassette decks, Mini Disc, Computer and MP3 Recorder - for recording or to replay material, recorded on cassette outside the studio. 5 6 III. THE MIXING CONSOLE The mixer or master centrepiece of the studio all the bits of equipment are linked here : microphones, CD-players, cassette recorders, mini disc and computer... controls what ends up going to air or being recorded. controls what is recorded or broadcasted. allows you to switch from one source of sound to another. lets you mix together the sound from several pieces of equipment. 7 a) FADERS are either rotary knobs or slide controls. determine the level of signal from the equipment. microphone faders should be opened fast otherwise the first part of what the person is saying cannot be heard over the radio. music faders should be opened and closed gradually. CROSS FADING – cross fading will give a slight overlap when, for example, the start of a second record is faded in while the first is gradually faded out. – To do this well, it is important to know what the end of your first record sounds like. – Wearing headphones allows your ears to judge the best time to cross fade. 8 TIPS & REMINDERS Try to develop a habit of quickly fading down the microphones before switching on the more noisy pieces of equipment such as cassette deck. When a microphone is opened, it will pick up most sounds in the studio, including the 'clicks' and 'clunks' made when tape recorders are being switched on. 9 b) Organisation Planning makes mixing much easier. Always check, and double-check that the next item is cued and ready to go. It is wise to have as many items as possible cued before starting your program. If possible, have an extra CD standing by in case of the occasional inevitable disaster. 10 IV. MICROPHONES are highly sensitive devices to pick up voices and other sounds need to be treated carefully. usually distinguished by two factors whether they need a power supply and their 'pick up' pattern come in many different kinds 11 V. COMPACT DISC PLAYER Lots of music, radio plugs, and other computer recordings today come from CD. CDs are easy to cue. You just put the CD into the player, choose the number of the track you want, and push 'pause' and the CD is ready. You can also play one track after the other. But if you want to play two songs from different CDs one after the other, you need two CD-players in order to continue without interruption or to be able to crossfade. 12 VI. CASSETTE DECK Most studios will also have one or two cassette decks available. Studio cassette decks are similar to domestic models in operation. Cassettes cannot easily be cued, as the tape cannot be turned by hand. It is a matter of careful timing, to stop the cassette just before the start of the recorded segment you want to play. Having cued the cassette, it is wise to use the 'Pause' button as the machine will gain full speed more quickly than if starting with the 'Play' button. 13 VII. MINI DISC and MP3 RECORDER Portable mini disc recorders are often used for field interviews. As recordings on the mini disc can be edited with the mini disc device itself, it is practical for field recordings. Mini disc is easy to cue. Select the track and use the 'Pause' button. To start, release the 'Pause' button. MP3 Recorders or Voice Recorders become more and more popular for field recordings. If you buy a device make sure it has an input for an external microphone. Because the built in microphone do not record radio quality. MP3 recorders can be connected to the mixer through the headphone output. It is easy to cue just select the file you want to play and use the 'Pause' button. To start release the 'Pause' button. 14 VIII. COMPUTER Most new studios today have a computer with sound card and sound recording and editing programmes. This is very practical as editing and mixing is possible on the computer. The computer can also play back recorded sound, sound from the Internet, and from CD or USB Flash Drive. Attention if you record on the computer and play back at the same time you risk 'Pause' feedback. It is important to either play from or record to the computer. The file format usually used for radio is MP3 or WAV. For simple radio sound-editing, Audacity is an Open Source free software. 15 VIII. METERS The studio mixer and some of the recording devices will have meters built into them. The meters indicate the level of the sound signal. Whether recording or broadcasting, you should aim for the best level of sound. If it is too low, additional background noise will be heard. If it is too high, the sound will distort. The only way to know the level of the sound is by reading the meters. The level of sound should not be confused with volume. You and the listener can adjust the volume on headphones, monitors, or a radio receiver as desired. The use of the meters is quite simple - aim to have the indicator going into the red part 16 of the meter as often as possible but not permanently. – For the spoken word, the peak should be somewhat louder than for music. – Within any piece of music, there is a range of levels. You should not be adjusting the levels constantly but should set the level control so that the loudest part of the title will make the needle or light bounce up to the red part of the meter. X. SPEAKERS + HEADPHONES The studio will be equipped with loudspeakers and headphones, which let you hear what you are doing. To avoid 'feedback', speakers must be cut out as soon as a fader for a microphone in the control room is opened. This makes it important to use headphones 17 TIPS & REMINDERS To produce a radio program without constantly monitoring what is being broadcast is like taking photographs without bothering to look through the viewfinder or display of the camera. Constant monitoring over headphones and watching of the meters is essential for a good quality production. 18 XI. How to assemble a Mobile Recording Studio A mobile studio can be used for live transmission from a certain place, such as a public forum, community gathering or a town fiesta to transmit broadcasts from that place to the main radio station and from where it will be broadcasted to the radio listeners. This can be done either with: – – – a small transmitter, if the location is not too far from the main station or; via telephone connectionor; STREAMING via internet connection. More information on streaming you find on www.streambox.org or http://www.shoutcast.com. 19 How to connect the different devices for a mobile studio (see sample illustration next page) The centrepiece is a small mixer, with at least four tracks. To this mixer, you connect the devices you need for the recording or broadcast, such as microphones, (portable) CD-player, (portable) Mini Disc and/or MP3 recorder, cassette recorder, and a computer/laptop for recording, broadcasting or streaming. The mixer has different inputs and different outputs. All the devices you connect do have an output (line out) (CD-Player, microphones) and some also have an input (line in) aswell. For portable recorders or CD-players, the earphone socket can serve as output and the microphone socket can serve as input. 20 21 The output of each device must be connected to the input of one of the tracks at your mixer. The output of the mixer, must be connected to the input of the recording device (cassette,,Mini Disc, MP3 recorder, computer). The output of the mixer can be called Rec, Mastero or Main Output. It is important to have the right cable and the right plugs that fit to the mixer and the devices. If you want to listen to what you have recorded, you might want to bring portable speakers and connect them to the headphone output. For this, a two-way adapter for the headphone socket is needed. But careful: For recording over the microphone, you need to turn off the speakers to avoid feed back. The most important monitoring instrument is still the headphone and the meter on the master or the computer audio-waves. Never operate a mobile studio without your headphone on. The best is to test the whole studio a few days before the actual event to find out what is missing. It is also advisable to bring electric extension wires with a number of sockets for all devices. 22
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Argyle sign Charlton's Ansah on loanRead full article on Argyle sign Charlton's Ansah on loan
Plymouth Argyle sign striker Zak Ansah on loan from Charlton Athletic until the end of the season.
Plymouth Argyle sign striker Zak Ansah on loan from Charlton Athletic until the end of the season.
Torquay United sign Charlton Athletic winger Kadell Daniel on loan until the end of the season.
Belgian midfielder Yoni Buyens scores twice as Charlton came from behind to beat FA Cup semi-finalists Reading.
Rotherham sign Arsenal keeper Emiliano Martinez and Charlton defender Lawrie Wilson on loan until the end of the season.
Charlton secure a fourth Championship win in five as they rise to 11th place in the table while Blackpool stay bottom.
Jordan Rhodes scores twice as Blackburn Rovers beat Charlton Athletic to keep their faint play-off hopes intact.
Charlton Athletic midfielder Oliver Muldoon signs a new contract until 2017 and subsequently joins Gillingham on loan.
Charlton Athletic come from a goal down to claim their fourth away win of the season at the Cardiff City Stadium.
Frederic Bulot scores twice for Charlton to hand new Nottingham Forest boss Dougie Freedman a first defeat.
Huddersfield manager Chris Powell endures a miserable return to Charlton as Tony Watt hits a brace for the Addicks.
Charlton have admitted that video footage showing a couple having sex on the pitch at The Valley was a publicity stunt.
First half goals from Jeff Hendrick and Jesse Lingard give Championship leaders Derby victory against Charlton.
Charlton Athletic sign former West Ham midfielder Alou Diarra on a deal until the end of the season.
Charlton ease relegation concerns with victory over Wigan, whose striker Leon Clarke is taken off wearing a neck brace.
Charlton sign ex-Bolton winger Chris Eagles on a deal until the end of the season after his deal at Blackpool expired.
Charlton supporters want to meet Belgian owner Roland Duchatelet and find out his long-term vision for the club.
Charlton end a 13-game winless league run with a convincing victory over play-off chasing Brentford.
On-loan Charlton defender Milos Veljkovic is ruled out for the rest of the season after dislocating his shoulder.
Cameron Jerome's header ends a second-half fight back by Charlton and secures victory for promotion-chasing Norwich.
Middlesbrough extend their unbeaten run to nine matches with victory over Charlton Athletic, who are now winless in 13 games.
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IF YOU ARE A SERIOUS CORVETTE PERSON THAN LOOK NO FURTHER. THIS ONE IS FOR YOU. NEW ARRIVAL AT OUR LAS VEGAS STORE.... More
Just in! Call or visit our website for more information.... More
1954 Chevrolet Corvette VIN #2763. Terrific drive train featuring original #'s Blue Flame 235 CID 6 cylinder, easy shifting Power glide automatic transmission and... More
*** ONLY 39838 MILES *** CORVETTE COUPE! PREFERRED EQUIPMENT GROUP 2! MILLENNIUM YELLOW PAINT! MEMORY PKG! CHROME FACTORY ALLOY WHEELS! HEAD-UP DISPLAY! BOSE SOUND!... More
This is a high quality build that was organized by the current owner who has made this car his go to hobby. Spending days... More
The Chevrolet Corvette is one of the greatest sports cars ever built, with a history spanning more than 40 years. Improvements were made... More
One Owner 1981 Chevrolet Corvette. New Leather interior. All options. Very nice condition. Two repaints--currrent paint is good. Full original documentation/paperwork (window sticker, etc). Original... More
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This 1974 Corvette Convertible is an excellent weekend driver for the summer. White with Red interior and matching numbers. Automatic transmission. An overall original example... More
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Talk about a rare opportunity: This is a true 1-owner survivor Corvette! A time capsule that'll take you back to 1967... Some of the specifics... More
SEE MORE PHOTOS OF THIS VETTE AND 100+ OTHERS FOR SALE AT WWW.BUYAVETTE.NET! Ruby Red exterior Ruby Red leather interior Ruby Red convertible top.... More
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1965 Chevrolet Corvette Big Block Coupe finished in Ermine white, CC correct, with a blue vinyl interior, 414 correct. It is powered by a... More
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To be auctioned at the Lucky Collector Car Auction Spring "Jackpot" Collector Car Auction at the Snoqualmie Casino in Washington on April 4th, 2015.... More
To be auctioned at the Lucky Collector Car Auction Spring "Jackpot" Collector Car Auction at the Snoqualmie Casino in Washington on April 4th, 2015.... More
One of only 448 1991 Corvette ZR-1s produced, this example also features a Callaway SuperNatural 475 conversion, making it ultra-rare. With an original base... More
1967 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe 435HP, Equiped with a L71 427 Tri-Power engine factory rated at 435HP with a Muncie M21 4 speed transmission. Other... More
Sensational 1957 Corvette Convertible in Onyx Black on Beige. 283ci/245hp V8, dual 4bbl. Powerglide Trans, Wonderbar AM Radio. NCRS Second-Flight Award Winner in 2011.... More
2010 Corvette GS Convertible. Captivating in Jetstream Blue over Dark Titanium. 6.2L V8, 430hp. 6-speed manual trans. 1-owner with only 7,655 miles. Desirable 4LT... More
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: FireRed hack:
Pokemon Dragon master
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September 9th, 2009 (04:59 AM).
Sarcastic Prince
Starting anew...
Join Date: Aug 2007
Location: Kwun Tong Mountains
Gender: Male
Nature: Timid
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In fact I think thanks to PMD2 we know that normal Celebi is male...
Only shiny ones are females...
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But no matter how Celebi's color's changed and how Celebi looks like, it still looks like that it is a female! That's what I think.
I am now an anime dubber, cover singer and a fan of anime. I can still apply as a translator and grammar corrector, though.
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Sunset Hotel
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Day 112 Naxos day 2 (Naxos tour)
... town. This road had some great scenery, of the farm areas, the dam and the views of the island.
We got back to the port and i walked back to the hotel/ hostel, i dropped off my stuff and then walked to st George beach, walked along to the end, then came back to the other end and walked back to the hotel/hostel. Here i used the WiFi did some reading, relaxed, did some packing and got ready for the next day.
I then walked into town. I went ...
Day 111 Naxos day 1 (plaka beach)
... was called this. I parked my buggy and went for a walk along the beach, then came back to the buggy and continued on until the road ended.
At the end of the road i went back out to the beach, walked along it, had a swim and then relaxed on the sand. I then went back to the buggy and headed back along the road, i stopped for an early lunch at one of the taverns along side the beach. After eating and drinking i went back out. I found another spot to park and went for a walk ...
Day 110 Paros to Naxos (beaches and ruins)
... so i found that and got on. We then drove through town to the Soula hotel/hostel on st Georges beach. I checked in and went to the room. As i was staying in the hostel part, i was with some of the girls that i came in on the pick up with.
After unpacking, i went for a walk, first using the hostel WiFi, then walked into town. I checked out some of the hire places, then got a coffee, checked out some of ...
Sun, seafood & spectacular sceneries in Santor
Santorini proved to be an amazing place.. That was when we finally reached our hotel..after an hour of walking around..up a mountain side with 20kgs of luggage (EACH!) we finally found our hotel tucked away in a row of hotels along the cliff side. We dropped our bags and went to brekky overlooking the Caldera. We then took a walk along the coast looking out at the Aegean Sea. When we could finally check in we put our bags down and, admittedly, had a power nap.. ...
... when I discovered that I was nearly out of hair gel. I was desperately in need of a haircut; the mop I was cultivating was becoming uncontrollable and required a strong gel to hold everything in place. Scraping every corner of the container I gathered up just enough to make me look presentable. It's not just you women that stresses about looking good before a night out. When I rejoined Chris and Boyce in the restaurant to wait for the taxi and of course to wait ...


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Strawberry Banana Popsicles
Refreshingly light, fruit-filled popsicles are a perfect summer treat.
The combination of banana and sweet strawberries is all you need in a summer indulgence.
Makes 4 popsicles
What You Need:
1 cup fresh strawberries
1 banana
1/2 cup non-dairy milk
What You Do:
In a blender, process all ingredients until smooth and pour into popsicle molds. Chill in freezer for at least 4 hours until set.
Click here to watch Katherine Lawrence make these popsicles on VegNews TV.
Three Bean Dal
A simple bean medley is the perfect way to celebrate Spring.
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It's always a good time for perfectly grilled vegan pizza.
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Tomatoes, cucumbers, and red peppers give this salad a fresh, crisp bite.
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Show how much you love someone with these three sweet treats from raw recipe guru Amy Lyons of Fragrant Vanilla Cake.
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Indiana Gov. Pence signs religious objections bill
The governor signed the bill in a private ceremony.
The governor signed the bill in a private ceremony.
The co-pilot of a Germanwings passenger jet carrying 150 people is believed to have crashed the plane on purpose on Tuesday.
A member of the Illinois Army National Guard and his cousin have been arrested on charges of conspiring to provide material support ISIS.
Reno County is buying equipment that will vacuum-seal clothing used by inmates to keep the county's new jail smelling good.
Pennsylvania State Trooper helps woman give birth in parking lot when she can't make it to the hospital.
Coke remained by far the most popular soda in the U.S., selling nearly twice as much as No. 2 Pepsi.
Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins congratulated the Wichita State Shockers on House floor today.
Driver records Oklahoma tornado as it crossed I-35 near Moore.
The Ottawa County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's help in catching a suspected thief.
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The CEO of Lufthansa Airlines spent time describing what they know about the co-pilot and the safety procedures in place.
Harris County, Texas, leads the nation in population growth by person, with the county surrounding Houston adding 89,000 people.
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Police believe the thieves wanted the scrap metal. The handles on the casket were missing.
Louisiana authorities investigate disturbing video shows young men decapitate live goat with machete.


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we are just a couple traveling for vacation. friendly, clean, considerate.
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very nice, friendly guests who left apartment clean and neat. it was pleasure to have them and I would strongly recommend them to all airbnb community:)
Nice young travelers. They left the apartment clean and tidy. great guests!
Dima and his wife have been very polite, communicative and clean guests. I definitely recommend them. It will be a pleasure to have them again in our flat.
Guests were exceptional. Friendly and accurate, recommended!
Lovely couple; easy going persons, and free of stress ! They easily found the way to reach the studio with all the infos i gave them before their stay.
I just missed time with them to know them more.
More, the studio was in really good shape after their stay !
Hightly recommended on the Airbnb community !


text:
Blind Faith
Title: Blind Faith: Sin Brothers, Book 3
Author: Rebecca Zanetti
Narrator: Karen White
Unabridged Length: 12 h, 6 m
Published by Hachette Audio, 2015
Genres: Romance
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The Book Nympho
Title: Blind Faith: Sin Brothers, Book 3
Author: Rebecca Zanetti
Narrator: Karen White
Unabridged Length: 12 h, 6 m
Published by Hachette Audio, 2015
Genres: Romance
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The Book Nympho
Title: Sequence One: Songs of Submission, Books 1-3
Author: C.D. Reiss
Narrator: Jo Raylan
Unabridged Length: 8 h, 47 m
Published by Flip City Media, 2014
Genres: Romance, Erotica
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Kris & Vik Book Therapy Cafe
Title: Seduce the Darkness: Alien Huntress, Book 4
Author: Gena Showalter
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Unabridged Length: 11 h, 22 m
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Title: Arctic Drift: Dirk Pitt, Book 20
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I am, Indeed


text:
RIDING school owners fear they might have to close and sell their animals because of noise from a new rail link.
Wendlebury Gate Stables owner Hazel Offord said noise from the planned East-West rail link could interrupt classes and frighten horses.
The project will rebuild the line between Oxford and Bicester and connect it to Bedford from August next year.
Ms Offord said surveys show a planned noise reduction barrier would have to be at a "fair" or "good" standard.
But Network Rail says none of the barriers it has investigated meet the requirements of the 25-year-old business.
A petition, set up on the Government's petitions website for an "adequate" barrier, has attracted more than 500 signatures.
Ms Offord, 45, said: "If we don't get the barrier, people will not be able to hear, and that is pretty important when you are teaching them to ride.
"It is exceptionally stressful. We feel we are being left in the dark. The hardest part is the lack of communication."
Work has started to lay the tracks by the school – around 100m away – which has 36 horses and gives 4,000 lessons a year.
Ms Offord's father John, a co-owner of the business, said: "The noise from high speed trains running along our boundary is predicted to drown out communication between instructor and rider making it unsafe to continue as a riding school. Even if we did not close, our licencing authority would force us to."
The next closest riding school is in Turpins Lodge, Hook Norton, 22 miles away.
Mr Offord added: "The stable employs 15 people who will be put out of work."
Network Rail spokeswoman Victoria Bradley said: "We have investigated all the options available to us for installing a sound barrier near to Wentlebury Gate Stables.
"While none of these options has received a 'fair' rating, we will continue to work with the owners to mitigate any increase in noise levels.
"We are confident this can be achieved and that the business can continue to operate safely."
The petition is at epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/68162
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Our top stories
2pm Update: Ten now held by police in anti-slavery operation + video and pictures
8:04am Thursday 26th March 2015
TEN people have now been arrested by police following this morning's raids targeting slavery in the city.
Council says millions more are needed to protect children from sex exploitation
9:00am Thursday 26th March 2015
MILLIONS in extra funding is needed to cope with the rising problem of child sex exploitation across Oxfordshire.
Former Oxford schoolgirl wins Waterstone's children's book prize for debut novel
8:00pm Thursday 26th March 2015
A FORMER Oxford schoolgirl has won the Best Young Fiction category at the Waterstone's Children's Book Prze awards.
Witney woman jailed for causing the death of a pensioner by dangerous driving in Curbridge
6:34pm Thursday 26th March 2015
A 58-year-old woman has been jailed after causing the death of a pensioner by dangerous driving.
Trees and wasteland caught fire between Yarnton and the Peartree Interchange
6:33pm Thursday 26th March 2015
A FIRE that blazed through trees and wasteland between Yarnton and the Peartree Interchange has been put out.
Video: Large turn-out to salute return to Britain of soldier Jamie Sawyer after his death in Cyprus
5:37pm Thursday 26th March 2015
SERVICEMEN, veterans, family and friends joined members of the Carterton community this afternoon to pay their respects at the repatriation of Private Jamie Lee Sawyer this afternoon.


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Book your room at Palazzo Manfredi - Relais & Chateaux
Double Room (Prestige Room)Max Occupancy: 3 guests (up to 1 infant)
Executive Double Room, ViewMax Occupancy: 3 guests (up to 1 infant)
Historic 5-star Rome hotel overlooking Colosseum
Located in Rome (Monti), Palazzo Manfredi - Relais & Chateaux is minutes from Basilica di San Clemente and Santi Quattro Coronati.
This 5-star hotel is close to Colosseum and Roman Forum.
Make yourself at home in one of the 15 individually decorated guestrooms, featuring refrigerators and LCD televisions. Your room comes with a memory foam bed. Satellite programming and DVD players are provided for your entertainment, while complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected. Private bathrooms have designer toiletries and complimentary toiletries.
Take in the views from a rooftop terrace and a terrace and make use of amenities such as complimentary wireless Internet access. Additional features include concierge services, babysitting/childcare (surcharge), and wedding services.
Enjoy a meal at a restaurant, or stay in and take advantage of the hotel's room service (during limited hours). Quench your thirst with your favorite drink at a bar/lounge.
Featured amenities include limo/town car service, express check-in, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Planning an event in Rome? This hotel has facilities measuring 323 square feet (30 square meters), including a meeting room. Guests may use a roundtrip airport shuttle for a surcharge, and free valet parking is available onsite.Information missing or incorrect? Tell us!
Hotel Amenities
Hotel Amenities
Palazzo Manfredi - Relais & Chateaux stands on the site of Roman gladiators' barracks. Used as a TV and movie set, the hotel's large terrace overlooks the Colosseum, the Imperial Forum, and the Domus Aurea. The rooftop Aroma Restaurant and Lounge Bar serves buffet and à la carte breakfast each morning. The hotel offers Lamborghini rentals to guests age 30 and over. Guests can take advantage of in-room massages provided by local wellness centers, as well as personal trainers, and in-room use of a mini gym. For business travelers the hotel features 30 square meters of meeting facilities and business services. Wireless Internet access (surcharge) is available throughout the hotel. Valet parking, porter service, and 24-hour concierge service are offered. Multilingual staff can assist with limousine service and other transport needs.
For roundtrip airport shuttle (surcharge) guests must contact the property 72 hours prior arrival.
- Concierge services
- Use of nearby fitness center (discount)
- Babysitting or childcare (surcharge)
- Bar/lounge
- Total number of rooms - 15
- Multilingual staff
- 24-hour front desk
- Safe-deposit box at front desk
- Number of floors - 4
- Dry cleaning/laundry service
- Elevator/lift
- Wedding services
- Free newspapers in lobby
- Express check-in
- Designated smoking areas (fines apply)
- Designated smoking areas
- Tours/ticket assistance
- Snack bar/deli
- One meeting room
- Rooftop terrace
- Luggage storage
- Restaurant
- Laundry facilities
- Garden
- Limo or Town Car service available
- Free valet parking
- Terrace
- Porter/bellhop
- Year Built 2003
- Conference space size (feet) - 323
- Conference space size (meters) - 30
- Number of buildings/towers - 2
- Airport transportation (surcharge)
- Breakfast available (surcharge)
- Free WiFi
Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
Available in some public areas: Free WiFi
Free valet parking
Room Amenities
- DVD player
- Premium bedding
- Room service (limited hours)
- Climate control
- Free newspaper
- Blackout drapes/curtains
- Phone
- Refrigerator
- Minibar
- Daily housekeeping
- Turndown service
- Designer toiletries
- Private bathroom
- Bathrobes
- Free toiletries
- Hair dryer
- Bidet
- Slippers
- In-room childcare (surcharge)
- Satellite TV service
- In-room safe
- Desk
- Cribs/infant beds available
- Free WiFi
- Soundproofed rooms
- Hypo-allergenic bedding available
- Air conditioning
- Individually furnished
- Individually decorated
- Memory foam mattress
Where to Eat
Aroma - Colosseum and city views from the hotel's famous rooftop terrace. American-style buffet or à la carte breakfast. American-style bar with wine, cocktails, and light fare.
Room service - Available limited hours.
Hotel Policies
Check-in time starts at 2 PM
Check-out time is noon
Payment types
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on hotel policy.
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card or cash deposit are required at check-in for incidental charges.
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges. Special requests cannot be guaranteed.
- A tax is imposed by the city: EUR 7 per person, per night, up to 10 nights. This tax does not apply to children under 10 years of age.
- Fee for buffet breakfast: EUR 30 per person (approximately)
- Airport shuttle fee: EUR 30 per person (one way)
- Valet parking fee: EUR 50 per day
We should mention
Cash transactions at this property cannot exceed EUR 999.99, due to national regulations. For further details, please contact the property using information in the booking confirmation. Accommodations are situated at multiple addresses. This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply). Guests must contact the property with arrival details 72 hours prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation.
Awards & Affiliations
- The property is a member of Relais & Chateaux.


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Please enter a valid mileage
Want to save money? Check out the 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
By KBB.com Editors
The CLK is Mercedes-Benz's mid-level premium coupe and convertible line. Although the 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK costs significantly more than its competition, the company believes the brand's name and engineering excellence justify the higher price. Styling, performance and luxury hold strong sway with consumers in these market categories, and the CLK Coupe and Cabriolet are prime examples. The CLK Coupe stands out from the few others in this segment by touting a pillarless hardtop design and a stunning profile. As the CLK350 and CLK550 clearly place luxury above any really serious performance ambitions, true driving enthusiasts may find more to like in the Audi S5 or BMW 3 Series.
If you wish the E-Class Sedan were available in coupe or convertible form, the CLK is about the closest you're going to get, short of a custom job. A rigid body, firm ride and well-insulated soft top (on the Cabriolet) await the CLK's lucky owners. There aren't many rivals in this price range, making the 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK a rather exclusive vehicle.
The high price tag for the Cabriolet and V8-powered models is the only negative on our radar screen. In true two-door fashion, the CLK offers little in the way of rear-seat legroom and a manual transmission is not offered on any model.
The limited-production Grand Edition CLK350 Coupe and Cabriolet arrive for 2009 wearing Palladium Silver (Coupe) or Diamond White paint (Cabriolet) with a Tobacco Brown leather interior. Only 1,000 units will reach dealer showrooms. All CLK models now feature as standard a six-disc CD changer and heated front seats.
Driving Impressions The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK550's V8 develops 382 horsepower, which rockets the car forward while leaving behind the unmistakable note of a V8 exhaust. The wonderfully neutral handling requires only minor...input to the steering wheel and offers excellent feedback. Mercedes-Benz also includes two settings for the smooth-shifting seven-speed transmission; one for comfort and one for sport. In the comfort setting, the transmission starts in second gear, reducing the amount of torque to the wheels and thus improving traction. This setting is very useful for those who drive in snow and rain.
Pop-Up Roll Bars
Integrated pop-up roll bars on the CLK Cabriolet remain out of sight until needed.
Side Turn Signals
Turn signals built into the bases of the side-view mirrors are visible to drivers next to you.
The 2009 CLK's interior features familiar styling cues common to all Mercedes Benz cars. From the intuitive ventilation controls to the clever door-mounted switches that from the familiar shape of a seat, it is clear the CLK cockpit was designed to anticipate its occupants every need. More proof can be found in the handy electronically extendable arm that offers the seatbelt to front-seat occupants or the power-operated front seats that automatically move forward when the seatbacks are tipped up. We found the CLK's seats offer a wide range of positions, including the ability to raise the seat bottoms to a significant rake. This is a favorite position for long-legged drivers who need more thigh support.Exterior
Introduced in 2003, the CLK's timeless design remains fresh and alluring. The stunning Cabriolet takes full advantage of the rakish CLK lines and, with the top removed, looks as though it was born to be a convertible. One of the great features on the Coupe is the absence of a center pillar between the front and rear window on each side. Not only does this design create a beautiful visual profile, it actually improves active safety by allowing an unobstructed view, with the windows in place or lowered.
There are two CLK trims and four models: the V6-powered CLK350 Coupe and Cabriolet and the V8-powered CLK550 Coupe and Cabriolet. The base CLK350 has a seven-speed automatic transmission, front and rear fog lights, Bose audio, front side-impact and front and rear head-curtain airbags, automatic roll bars (Cabriolet), 10-way power and heated leather seats, Electronic Stability Program with traction control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with touch controls and memory for the front seats, outside mirrors and steering column position. The CLK550 features a standard sport suspension and 18-inch AMG style wheels.
Options include ventilated front seats, power glass moonroof (Coupe), COMAND audio and navigation control, Keyless Go, rear side-impact airbags, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, bi-xenon headlamps and an electronic trunk closer. The CLK350 Sport Package adds lower springs and stiffer shocks, 17-inch AMG five spoke wheels, perforated brake discs and brake calipers bearing the Mercedes Benz logo.
Though not as lightning-quick as the 5.5-liter V8 found in the CLK550, the CLK350's 3.5-liter V6 provides the quick throttle response buyers expect from a $50K-plus automobile. About the only reason to move up to the CLK550's V8 is the few additional features and added performance.
3.5-liter V6
268 horsepower @ 6000 rpm
258 lb.-ft. of torque @ 2400-5000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 17/25
5.5-liter V8
382 horsepower @ 6000 rpm
391 lb.-ft. of torque @ 2800-4800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 15/22 (Coupe), 15/21 (Cabriolet)
To compare current market prices, check out KBB.com's car classifieds to view the new and used Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class vehicles for sale near you.
Based on 295 Ratings for the 2003 - 2009 models.Review this car
By m3pig on Tuesday, January 13, 2015
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 9,500overall rating 8 of 10rating details
Pros: "Great handling, fast."
Cons: "No back seat, gas mileage is awful"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 8
"CLK 63 AMG BS is very rare, with only 350 or so in the US. CLK styling is different and I prefer it to the current C Class AMGs. Its engine is by far the best V8 ever produced by any manufacturer."
6 people out of 9 found this review helpful
Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse
By Greycp on Tuesday, November 18, 2014
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 65,000overall rating 9 of 10rating details
Pros: "Fun to drive, sporty look"
Cons: "Pricy maintenance"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 8
"I've had my 2009 clk350 for almost a year now and love it. I have the "grand edition" with the amg package. It's one of those cars that when you park it and walk away, you have to look back at it...lol. My only negative is maintenance is a bit pricy. I hope to have this car for a very long time."
12 people out of 18 found this review helpful
Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse
By taylor on Thursday, October 23, 2014
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 137,700overall rating 9 of 10rating details
Pros: "fast, fun to drive, head turner"
Cons: "it only has 1 cup holder in the front"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 8
"I love this car. It's fast and has a very sleek body. I think the only thing that bothers me the most about the car is that it only has 1 cup holder in the front seat. I know it's not a big things but its really annoying to have 1 cup holder in the front and 2 in the back. The only reason I'm selling my car now is because its not easy to get in and out of the back seats having elderly parents. Overall this car has been great to me and fun to drive."
5 people out of 9 found this review helpful
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By Engineer/UsedCarOwner on Tuesday, October 07, 2014
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 127,400overall rating 10 of 10rating details
Pros: "fun to drive, luxurious, reliable,reasonable price"
Cons: "no complaints"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"WOW!!! From the first test drive, I loved this car. It is very sharp and sleek on the outside. I've heard it referred to as a crouching tiger, and I would completely agree. With nearly 400hp, it has more than enough power. My CLK550 has the sport appearance package (AMG premium wheels, AMG exhaust tips, spoiler, etc) along with Avantgarde option and premium Harman Kardon sound system. The interior is just as gorgeous as the exterior and very luxurious. I purchased my 2007 CLK550 as a certified pre-owned vehicle from my local MB dealership and have had no issues at all. I keep it well maintained by taking in to the dealership for routine A and B Service. As the saying goes, "you get what you pay for." Mercedes Benz are not inexpensive for a reason - they manufacture above average vehicles. I've been very pleased and would highly recommend the CLK550!!!"
9 people out of 12 found this review helpful
Was this review helpful to you? yes | no | report abuse
By MWG on Thursday, September 18, 2014
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 28,900overall rating 9 of 10rating details
Pros: "Top "up" or "down" in about 20 seconds, great ride"
Cons: "At 66, low entry/exit is a little rougher."
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9
"Bought Dec. 2012 with 21,500 miles from CarMax. Bought with the 6 year/75,000 mile warranty but as of 9/25/14 have yet to use it. The only thing I've done is a "B" service at 24,000 miles which included the cabin air filter and 2 engine air filters along with service, inspection and reset of computer(not cheap at around $200.00 but that's the total money put out in almost 2 years)."
5 people out of 8 found this review helpful
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By mac on Wednesday, August 06, 2014
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 30,000overall rating 10 of 10rating details
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"I have owned my 2009 CLK 350 for 18 months; I purchased it with approx 22k miles; it is an exceptional car- the best i have ever owned; fun to drive, comfortable, powerful, ample bells and whistles."
5 people out of 9 found this review helpful
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Teleflex is a global provider of specialty medical devices usedfor a range of procedures in critical care and surgery. We serve hospitals andclinicians in more than 130 countries with well known, trusted brands invascular access, general and regional anesthesia, urology, respiratory care,cardiac care, and surgery. We also provide products and services for devicemanufacturers. Our products are designed to cost effectively provide clinicalbenefits and enable healthcare providers to improve outcomes and enhancepatient and provider safety.Teleflex, Inc. is an affirmative action & equal opportunity employer.D/V/M/F. Applicants will be considered without regard to age, race, creed,color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexualorientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality, sex, orveteran status. If you require accommodation to apply for a position, pleasecontact us at: 262-439-1894.
Our employees play a vital role in ensuring the success of our businesses. As we seek to be a leader in the markets we serve, our benefits programs help attract and retain the talent to achieve these goals. They reflect our partnership with employees to help protect them and their families from the high cost of healthcare, to provide disability income protection, and to help build financial security for their future and retirement.
Picture Yourself Making a Difference…
What's your definition of success? If part of your definition is building a career where you can expand your experience while making a difference in people's lives, then Teleflex is the place for you.
We're looking for talented, driven individuals who want to be part of a company that is focused on growth. And as much as we love business, we also have a higher calling to be a company that can make a true difference as a partner to healthcare providers around the world.
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Our special coverage of the closest race for years
Explore the personal stories of Syrian refugees in Lebanon
05 Mar 2007 04:01 GMT
Estonia remains one of the poorest countries in the EU. High inflation, 5.1 per cent in January, has delayed Estonia's entry to the euro zone, intended for this year. Ansip says 2010 is a realistic target.
He has been in power since April 2005 and has overseen economic growth of more than 11 per cent.
Seats and coalitions
The Reform party will have 31 seats in the 101-seat parliament, a jump from 19.
The Centre party won 29 seats while the nationalist Pro Patria-Res Publica took 19, a better performance than expected.
Ansip now has to either re-form a government with the Centre party or turn to the more like-minded conservatives of Pro Patria-Res Publica.
The election was the first to be won by a sitting prime minister since Estonia left the Soviet Union in 1991 and the first ever to be held partially via the internet.
Celebrating to the sounds of Queen's We are the Champions, Ansip said nothing was excluded.
"It is not important if there are two, three or four partners in the coalition - what is important is their programmes and promises," he said.
Coalition talks could be hard and protracted, lasting as long as a month.
Ansip and the Centre party had ruled with a third, smaller coalition partner, the People's Union, which won six seats in the election.
Reform and Pro Patria now need a third party to achieve a majority, but the Centre party would be an unlikely partner in such a coalition.
Tensions with Russia
The election was overshadowed by increased tensions with Russia, which may have helped Pro Patria.
The tensions were sparked when parliament voted to remove a statue of a Red Army soldier from the centre of the capital, Tallinn, because it was a reminder of 50 years of Soviet rule.
Russia called the plan blasphemous to the memories of the fighters against fascism.
Another source of tension has been Estonia's 300,000 Russian-speakers. Moscow says the Baltic state has discriminated against them since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991.
About 100,000 of them could vote. Others are either citizens of Russia or so-called non-citizens, without the right to vote in national parliamentary elections.
Neither of the two Russian-speaking parties in the election won a place a parliament.
Overall turnout in the election rose to 61 per cent from 58 per cent in the last election in 2003.
Source: Agencies
Voters head to polling booths with the ruling coalition expected to retain power.
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Washington DC in One Day: Guided Sightseeing Tour
Special Offer
- Tour of Washington DC's most famous monuments and landmarks by state-of-the-art luxury 30-passenger coach
- See the White House, Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam Memorial, and more from your comfortable coach
- Hop off for guided walks around the US Capitol Building, the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial and much more
- Take a scenic 1-hour Potomac River cruise (March 15 - October 6)
- Learn about the sights you see from your knowledgeable guide
- Small-group tour limited to 30 people ensures a more personalized experience
Why Our Insiders Chose This Tour
There is so much to see in Washington DC, so this tour is a great way to keep you from being overwhelmed. Having the guide accompany you at the stops really sets this tour apart. If you can, visit in the spring to take advantage of the Potomac River cruise!
Recent Photos of This Tour
Estatua en el Memorial de la ...Photo by: Patricia G
09 2014
Rambla sobre el Potomac, ...Photo by: Patricia G
09 2014
Lincoln MemorialPhoto by: Patricia G
09 2014
Memorial de la 2a. Guerra ...Photo by: Patricia G
09 2014
Capitol Tour DC!Photo by: trip
07 2014
DSC_0134.JPGPhoto by: Anonymous
05 2014
DSC_0133.JPGPhoto by: Anonymous
05 2014
DSC_0104.JPGPhoto by: Anonymous
05 2014
DSC_0095.JPGPhoto by: Anonymous
05 2014
What You Can Expect
Customer Reviews
March 2015
This was our first time in DC and Andy really brought the city alive for us telling and showing us interesting historical facts and his passion for the city was fantastic. A great mix of riding around in the bus - thanks to Tony the driver for always being just at the right place at the right time - and stepping out to explore all the main sites in detail. Thanks to Andy and Tony for a wonderful day.
March 2015
The tour was excellent! The driver Tony very competent and polite! The guide Andy phantastic, very knowledgeable in history, ready to answer all questions and cover all aspects of visited monuments architectural, artistic, historic etc! No stops just to fill the six hours! No visits in souvenir shops! A perfect tour for somebody who wants to get the essence of a very beautiful city in just six but full hours. I had similar tours in every city I visit and I do it almost 4 times a year. None of these was comparable to this tour. Absolutely recommendable!
Special Offer


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Discounts and Services
Who is eligible for MERSC Discounts & Services?
How to obtain MERSC Discounts & Services
How to obtain MERSC Discounts & Services
MERSC Discounts & Services are intended for employees of MERSC member companies and their immediate family members, and member company retirees and volunteers. EXCEPTIONS - Several MERSC discounts are available ONLY to the employee (noted on the vendor popup), and some vendors require that the employee is present to receive the discount (noted on the vendor popup).
- Methods of obtaining discounts vary: in-person, order form, coupons, online, phone
- Some vendors may ask for proof of employment with a MERSC member company, e.g. company I.D., recent paycheck stub.
- In most cases, other discounts or coupons are NOT applicable with MERSC discounts.
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