text:
The game bonus can be initiated by a reel symbol combination; an example is the initiator symbol that occurs on the base game. In the preferred implementation, the bonus initiator will be a scatter pay on a video slot. Upon hitting the initiator, the game random number generator chooses a value to award and an associated script to display the award based upon a probability and award schedule. The embodiments of display have a play choosing chickens located in cages on a truck. Each chicken awards a value until a chicken with a stopper and a value is chosen. This stopper ends the script and the player is awarded a value.
1. A method of operating a gaming machine, comprising:
receiving a wager;
indicating, under control of a processor, a special feature of chance on a visual display, the visual display initially depicting an assemblage of selectable elements;
receiving successive selections of the elements;
ending the special feature upon a stop-selection outcome associated with at least one of the selectable elements; and
awarding a bonus based on the elements selected including the elements associated with the stop-selection outcome.
2. The method of
associating a value with each of the selectable elements in advance of the receiving step;
associating a stop-selection outcome in addition to a value with at least one of the selectable elements in advance of the receiving step;
accumulating the values of the elements selected, including the one associated with the stop selection outcome; and
awarding a bonus based on the accumulated values.
3. The method of
4. The method of
5. The method of
determining in advance of the receiving step the number of elements to be selected until the stop-selection outcome; and
apportioning the bonus among each of the elements selected.
6. The method of
choosing a bonus based upon a probability and award schedule;
selecting a script to award the bonus, said script including the number of element selection steps until the stop-selection outcome and a value associated with each selection step; and
operating the script on the gaming machine.
7. The method of
8. A method for operating a gaming machine under control of a processor operable in a bonus mode, the method comprising the steps of:
displaying a plurality of selection elements for selection, a nonpredetermined one of said elements being associated with both a value and a stop-selection outcome;
receiving element selections and accumulating a value associated with those elements selected in a counter until selection of the element associated with the stop-selection outcome; and
awarding the accumulated value.
9. The method of
10. The method of
11. A special feature for a gaming machine controlled by a processor in response to a wager, the special feature being indicated on a visual display and comprising:
a plurality of bonus scripts stored in a memory of the gaming machine;
script selection means for selecting one of the bonus scripts responsive to the special feature, each such script designating a total bonus amount, a total number of selection steps within a bonus sequence, and a apportionment value applied to each step of the sequence where a last step of the sequence is associated with a positive value;
a plurality of selectable elements displayed on the visual display and valued according to the selected script where each of the selectable elements does not have a value until the elements is selected during the special feature; and
means for awarding the total bonus amount designated by the script.
12. The special feature of
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] This invention relates generally to electronic gaming machines and more particularly to a method and apparatus for operating a gaming machine special feature that terminates on a positive result.
[0003] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0004] Casinos typically include electronic gaming machines (EGMs) such as slot machines and video poker machines. Slot machines, for example, usually include three reels that each have a plurality of symbols printed thereon. After the player applies a wager to the machine, he or she starts play by triggering a switch that starts the reels spinning. Each reel stops at a random position and thereby presents three symbol�one from each reel. Some combinations of symbols do not pay any jackpot. Others pay varying amounts according to predetermined combinations that appear in a pay table displayed on the machine and stored in the gaming machine's programmable read-on memory (PROM).
[0005] Competition for players among electronic gaming machines is tight and the industry is developing different methods for attracting and keeping players at their machines. One method for attracting players is to create linked progressive jackpot systems in which multiple gaming machines have been linked together into groups of machines that share the same bonus pool. A simple example of such a system is progressive video poker in which players play the primary poker game on one of a plurality of gaming machines grouped together on the casino floor. A coin-in counter, linked to all machines sharing the progressive pool, counts the total amount of money played in the group of machines and advances the progressive bonus pool accordingly. For instance, the casino can choose to set aside 5% of all money played on the group of video poker machines to the bonus pool. The amount of the pool is displayed on a large LED display and is incremented as money is played. This amount is awarded automatically as a bonus should a player on one of the video poker machines receive a designated winning hand such as a royal flush. After the bonus is awarded, the bonus pool is seeded with a nominal amount that is further incremented as described above.
[0006] The advantage of the progressive system is that the bonus pools from individual machines can be pooled to form larger awards that in turn attract more players. When taken to the extreme, progressive bonuses can be pooled together not only from machines in different areas of the casino, but also from different casinos in different states. More complex examples for bonusing are implemented using bonus servers over a network, such as disclosed in co-owned U.S. Pat. No. 6,319,125 (the '125 patent), which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Also incorporated herein by reference for all purposes is U.S. Patent No. 5,655,961, assigned to the Assignee of the present application (the '961 patent), which also discloses bonuses that can be implemented by bonus servers over a network.
[0007] While these linked progressive systems have been effective at drawing additional players, there is a need for gaming machines that have additional attraction features and yet are not required to be linked to other machines. It is desired that the additional attraction feature include a positive ending result.
[0008] The current invention is intended to provide a novel secondary game feature that can be played in addition to the base primary game. The preferred embodiment is described in association with a slot machine, although it is understood that any base game can be used.
[0009] One method of operating a gaming machine involves receiving a wager and indicating, under control of a processor, a special feature of chance on a visual display, the visual display initially depicting an assemblage of selectable elements. The machine receives successive selections of the elements and ends the special feature upon a stop-selection outcome associated with at least one of the selectable elements. The bonus is awarded based on the elements selected including the elements associated with the stop-selection outcome.
[0010] Alternately, the method for operating a gaming machine under control of a processor operable in a bonus mode involves displaying a plurality of selection elements for selection, a nonpredetermined one of said elements being associated with both a value and a stop-selection outcome. The gaming machine then receives element selections and accumulates a value associated with those elements selected in a counter until selection of the element associated with the stop-selection outcome. The accumulated value is then awarded to the player as a bonus on top of payout from the base game.
[0011] The special feature for a gaming machine contemplated here is controlled by a processor in response to a wager. The special feature is indicated on a visual display and comprises a plurality of bonus scripts stored in a memory of the gaming machine. The special feature further includes a script selection means for selecting one of the bonus scripts responsive to the special feature. Each such script designates a total bonus amount, a total number of selection steps within a bonus sequence, and an apportionment value applied to each step of the sequence where a last step of the sequence is associated with a positive value. The special feature includes a visual display on which is displayed a plurality of selectable elements which are valued according to the selected script where each of the selectable elements does not have a value until the elements is selected during the special feature. The special feature additionally includes means for awarding the total bonus amount designated by the script.
[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of the invention will become more readily apparent from the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment of the invention that proceeds with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0013]FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a plurality of electronic gaming machines interconnected by a computer network to a host computer in accordance with a networked embodiment of the present invention.
[0014]FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a slot machine and associated hardware, including the secondary bonus screen for displaying the bonus promotion implemented according to the invention.
[0015]FIG. 3 is a partial view of a slot machine, shown in dashed lines, that is part of an implementation of the present embodiment of the invention, including an interactive display screen and card reader, shown in solid lines.
[0016]FIG. 4 is an enlarged partial view of the display of FIG. 3.
[0017]FIG. 5 is a right-side view of the display of FIG. 4.
[0018]FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the view of FIG. 4.
[0019]FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the slot machine display and card reader of FIG. 3 depicting the manner in which circuitry associated with each is connected to a network of similar slot machines incorporating displays and card readers.
[0020]FIG. 8 is a schematic view of the display and related components of FIG. 7.
[0021]FIG. 9 is a view of the display and card reader on the slot machine of FIG. 3, including an image depicted on the display screen.
[0022]FIGS. 10-11 are enlarged views of the display screen depicted in FIG. 9 with images displayed thereon as described in the following detailed description.
[0023]FIG. 12 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of operation of the gaming machine or machine network according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
[0024]FIG. 13 illustrates a sample script probability table used in a preferred embodiment of the invention to choose and then implement the bonus script selected. FIGS. 14-17 are schematic diagrams illustrating a scatter pay sequence implemented using a script selected from the table in FIG. 13.
[0025]FIG. 18 is an enlarged view of the display screen depicted in FIG. 9 with pictorial images displayed thereon from the schematic of FIG. 17 according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
[0026] Turning now to FIG. 1, indicated generally at 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating electronic gaming machines (EGMs), like EGMs 12, 14, interconnected by a computer network. Included therein are three banks, indicated generally at 16, 18, 20, of EGMs. Each EGM is connected via a network connection, like connection 22, to a bank controller 24. In the present embodiment of the invention, each bank controller comprises a processor that facilitates data communication between the EGMs in its associated bank and the other components on the network. The bank controller may also include a CD ROM drive for transmitting digitized sound effects, such as music and the like, to a speaker 26 responsive to commands issued over the network to bank controller 24. The bank controller may also be connected to an electronic sign 28 that displays information, such as jackpot amounts and the like, visible to players of machines on bank 16. Such displays are generated and changed responsive to commands issued over the network to bank controller 24. Each of the other banks 18, 20 of EGMs include associated bank controllers, speakers, and signs as shown, which operate in substantially the same manner.
[0027] Ethernet hub 30 connects each of the bank controllers associated with banks 16, 18, 20 of EGMs to a concentrator 32. Another Ethernet hub 34 connects similar bank controllers (not shown), each associated with an additional bank of EGMs (also not shown), to concentrator 32. The concentrator functions as a data control switch to route data from each of the banks to a translator 36. The translator comprises a compatibility buffer between the concentrator and a proprietary accounting system 38. It functions to place all the data gathered from each of the bank controllers into a format compatible with accounting system 38. The present embodiment of the invention, translator 38 comprises an Intel Pentium 200 MHz Processor operating Microsoft Windows NT 4.0.
[0028] Another Ethernet hub 39 is connected to a configuration workstation 40, a player server 42, a bonus server 44 and a promotion server 46. Hub 39 facilitates data flow to or from the configuration workstation 40 and the servers 42, 44, and 46. Additionally, the servers 42, 44, and 46 communicate through the concentrator 32 to the bank controllers 24, which, in turn, communicate with the particular gaming devices 12.
[0029] The configuration workstation 40 has a user interface that allows portions of the network 10 and the servers 42, 44, and 46 to be set up and modified. The configuration workstation 40 could include a personal computer having a keyboard, monitor, microprocessor, memory, an operating system, and a network card coupled to the Ethernet hub 30.
[0030] The player server 42 includes a microcomputer that is used to track data of players using the gaming devices 12. The player server 42 is coupled to a player database 43 where the player tracking data is stored. Another function of the player server 42 is to control messages that appear on display 58 associated with each gaming device 12 and the messages on the signs 28 coupled to the bank server 24. The player server 42 may be embodied in a microcomputer including, for instance an Intel Pentium Processor, Microsoft operating system and a network card to couple the server to the Ethernet hub 39.
[0031] The bonus server 44 is embodied by a microcomputer and is used to control bonus applications or bonus systems on the gaming network 10. The bonus server 44 is coupled to a database 45 where bonus data is stored. The bonus server 44 implements includes a set of rules for awarding jackpots in excess of those established by the winning pay tables of each gaming device 12. Some bonus awards may be made randomly, while others may be made to link to groups of gaming devices 12 operating in a progressive jackpot mode. Specific examples of such bonuses and networks used to implement them include those as described in U.S. patents mentioned above and previously incorporated, as well as the various implementations described further below.
[0032] The promotion server 46 is coupled to a promotion database 47 and a modeling parameters database 49. The promotion server 46 includes functions and processes operative to generate signals to cause a system award to be generated, and to communicate the generated system award to the particular gaming device 12 at which the player receiving the award can receive the award.
[0033] Data of different types of system and/or bonus awards and how and when the awards are generated can be stored in the promotion database 47. For instance, the text that is printed on an award, or bar-codes that are printed on the award ticket can be stored on the promotion database 47. Modeling parameters and data can be stored on the modeling parameters database 49. For instance, conditions that when satisfied cause a ticket to be generated can be stored on this database. Such data could include the number of hours a player must play at a requisite coin-in level to cause a complementary meal ticket to be awarded to the player. Many examples of system awards and parameters used to implement them are discussed in detail below.
[0034] In determining when to grant a bonus or system award, the promotion server 46 can access data stored anywhere on the network, such as: from any of the databases 43, 45, 47 and 49; from the configuration workstation 40; from the bank controller 24; from the accounting system 38; and from the bonus engine 50 on any or all of the gaming devices 12 coupled to the computer network 10. Additionally, the computer network 10 illustrated in FIG. 1 is only an example gaming network. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that embodiments of the invention can operate on any acceptable network, even if it differs from the one illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0035] When the promotion server 46 determines that an award should be generated, it sends appropriate signals to the bonus engine 50 of the appropriate gaming device 12 through the gaming network 12 to deliver the award. As discussed above, one such method of award delivery is to cause an award ticket to be printed for the player, but others such as points, cash back, a promotional coupons can also be contemplated. Examples of bonuses that can be implemented on the network are disclosed in a co-pending application, now co-owned U.S. Pat. No. 6,319,125 (the '125 patent), which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. This co-owned patent also describes in more detail features of the network, like that shown in FIG. 1, that may be used to implement the present invention. The '961 patent also discloses bonuses that can be implemented by bonus and promotional servers 44, 46 and a network that could be used to implement the present invention.
[0036] As used herein the term jackpot indicates an award made resulting from the pay table on one of the EGMs while the term bonus indicates an award that does not result from the machine's pay table. The '125 patent and '961 patent include many examples of bonuses.
[0037] The term award is intended to encompass any payment given to a player of one of the EGM's and includes both jackpots and bonuses.
[0038]FIG. 2 illustrates a gaming machine 12 constructed according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. Included is a highly schematic representation of an electronic slot machine�typical of each of the machines in the network�that incorporates network communications hardware as described hereinafter. This hardware is described in the '961 patent, and is referred to therein as a data communications node. Preferably the network communications hardware is like that disclosed in the '125 patent, namely a machine communication interface (MCI) 50.
[0039] MCI 50 facilitates communication between the network, via connection 22, and microprocessor 52, which controls the operation of EGM 12. This communication occurs via a serial port 54 on the microprocessor to which MCI 50 is connected.
[0040] Included in EGM 12 are three reels, indicated generally at 48. Each reel includes a plurality of different symbols thereon. The reels spin in response to a pull on handle 51 or actuation of a spin button 53 after a wager is made. In one specific implementation of the bonus, one or all of the reels 48 may include a special bonus initiator symbol which, when obtained on the gaming machine's payline, will cause the MCI 50 to initiate a secondary bonus game or other bonus event as described below.
[0041] MCI 50 includes a random access memory (RAM), which can be used as later described herein. The MCI also facilitates communication between the network and an liquid crystal display (LCD) or vacuum florescent display (VFD) 58, a card reader 60, a player-actuated push button 62, and a speaker 64.
[0042] Before describing play according to the invention, a description will first be made of typical play on a slot machine, like EGM 12. A player plays EGM 12 by placing a wager and then pulling handle 51 or depressing spin button 53. The wager may be placed by inserting a bill into a bill acceptor 68. A typical slot machine, like EGM 12, includes a coin acceptor that may also be used by the player to make a wager. Other elements incorporated into the electronic gaming machine 12 include a bill acceptor, coin-in meter, and a credit meter having a numeric display that indicates the total number of credits available for the player to wager. The credits are in the base denomination of the machine. For example, in a nickel slot machine, when a five-dollar bill is inserted into the bill acceptor, a credit of 100 appears on the credit meter. To place a wager, the player depresses a coin-in button, which transfers a credit from the credit meter to a coin-in meter. Each time the button is depressed a single credit transfers to the coin-in meter up to a maximum bet that can be placed on a single play of the machine. In addition, a maximum-bet button may be provided to immediately transfer the maximum number of credits that can be wagered on a single play from the credit meter to the coin-in meter.
[0043] When coin-in meter reflects the number of credits that the player intends to wager, the player depresses spin button 53 thereby initiating the base game.
[0044] The player may choose to have any jackpot won applied to credit meter 70. When the player wishes to cash out, the player depresses a cash-out button 74, which causes the credits on meter 70 to be paid in coins to the player at a hopper 78, which is part of machine 12. The machine consequently pays to the player, via hopper 78, the number of coins�in the base denomination of the machine�that appear on credit meter 70.
[0045] Card reader 60 reads a player-tracking card 66 that is issued by the casino to individual players who choose to have such a card. Card reader 60 and player-tracking card 66 are known in the art, as are player-tracking systems, examples being disclosed in the '961 patent and '125 patent. Briefly summarizing such a system, a player registers with the casino prior to commencing gaming. The casino issues a unique player-tracking card to the player and opens a corresponding player account that is stored on accounting system 38 (in FIG. 1). Accounting system 38 is referred to herein as a host computer. It should be appreciated, however, that the host computer can be distributed on the network and could include multiple processors or memories. The account includes the player's name and mailing address and perhaps other information of interest to the casino in connection with marketing efforts. Prior to playing one of the EGMs in FIG. 1, the player inserts card 66 into reader 60 thus permitting accounting system 38 to track player activity, such as amounts wagered and won and rate of play.
[0046] Turning next to FIGS. 3-6, indicated generally at 80 is the upper portion of slot machine 12. The slot machine is a commercially available electronic gaming device that has been modified as described herein.
[0047] One aspect of the modifications to slot machine 12 includes addition of a bracket 82 mounted on the front of the slot machine. The bracket includes two openings, the first containing a 640�240 touch-panel liquid crystal display (�LCD�) 58. In the present embodiment of the invention, LCD 58 comprises a Hitachi SX16H005-AZA LCD although it is of course possible to use other types of displays therein. The second opening 84, in FIG. 3, contains a card reader 60 having a slot 86 (visible in FIG. 9), into which a player's card is received as is known in the art. As shown in FIG. 9, both LCD 58 and slot 86 are framed by respective bezels 88, 90. Card reader bezel 90 and slot 86 are shown in FIG. 9.
[0048] Turning now to FIG. 7, the schematic components depicted therein on the left side of dashed line 92 are all contained within the cabinet that houses the upper portion 80 of slot machine 12 in FIG. 3. Slot machine electronics 94 is part of the original slot machine structure provided by the slot-machine manufacturer. The additional components on the left side of line 92, however, are all added to implement the invention in association with electronics 94 and the network.
[0049] The components within the slot machine, i.e., on the left side of line 92, are connected to a computer network, along with numerous additional slot machines 12, 14 having the related structure depicted in FIG. 7. The network is illustrated as a computer 96 on the right side of dashed line 92. Networked slot machines are known in the art and are depicted in the '961 and '125 patents. The network is shown generally in FIG. 1 and includes databases for storing slot machine transactions within accounting system 38 and player tracking data within player server 42, servers 44,46 for implementing system games and bonuses, and configuration work stations 40 for configuring the system games and bonuses. The network further includes a Content Manager, which is a program implemented on a network computer such as configuration work station 40 that permits an operator of the system, typically a casino, to customize and configure images that appear on display 58.
[0050] The slot-machine electronics 94 are connected to a system-machine interface (MCI) board 50 via a wiring harness 98. Board 50 provides communications between the slot machine electronics 94 and network 96 in a manner that is described in the '961 and '125 patents. A power supply 100 provides power to board 50. A wiring harness 102 connects board 50 with the display and associated electronics 104. Another harness connects board 50 to the network including computer 96. The power supply also supplies power to electronics 104 and to a card reader 60. The card reader is behind bezel 90 in FIG. 9 and includes slot 86.
[0051] Turning now to FIG. 8, additional details of the display and associated electronics 104 in FIG. 7 are depicted schematically.
[0052] A dedicated computer 106 includes an LCD controller and electronics for enabling VGA touch panel images and sound for LCD 58. In the present embodiment of the invention, computer 106 is a commercially available processor board manufactured by Intrinsyc. It includes an Intel ARM processor and a Windows CE operating system. Computer 106 also includes nonvolatile memory for storing images and sounds that are utilized as described hereinafter. An amplifier 108 provides sound signals to speakers 110, 112, which are partially visible in FIG. 9. It is understood that the system electronics 104 can be wired by those knowledgeable in the art to also or instead utilize the base game speakers 64 (FIG. 2) rather than just dedicated speakers 110, 112.
[0053] In the present embodiment of the invention, the networked slot machines are initially configured using the Content Manager, which�in the present embodiment of the invention�runs on the same network PC platform as configuration work station 40 (FIG. 1), and enables files to be downloaded to the system-machine interface board, like board 50, associated with each slot machine. Once the screens and features of individual screens are selected at the Content Manager, an initialization file is created that identifies which MMC files and features have been selected. The configuration workstation can then be used to download the initialization file and associated MMC files to all the machines, to groups of machines, or even to a single selected machine. These initialization files and associated MMC files are stored in nonvolatile memory in electronics 104. All parameters associated with the audio content and with display 58 can be configured in this manner.
[0054] In operation of the prior art VFD, System Tokens�such as a player's name or accrued points�are embedded in a slot-machine message comprising otherwise constant text strings that appear on the VFD. For example in the message Hello Richard, Hello comprises a constant text string and Richard comprises the System Token, here, the player name associated with the player card in use.
[0055] In the present invention, an MMC Token is embedded in the prior art VFD message, which may includes System Tokens, that is transmitted to board 50 by the network and from there to board 106. As a result, if the message is received by a slot machine with a VFD, the usual VFD message is displayed. If it is received by a slot machine with an LCD, the MMC message identified by the MMC Token is called from storage in electronics 106 and run, incorporating any System Tokens as specified in the network message. But when a VFD message that does not include an MMC Token is received at an LCD machine, the FIG. 10 emulation screen appears bearing the VFD message in the upper half, and emulating a prior art keypad, which is associated with the VFD in prior art machines. This feature permits gradual introduction of LCD machines on a network and gradual introduction of MMC messages to any LCD machines that are on the network. Multimedia content can thus be downloaded on the gaming-machine network and displayed on the LCD as described above.
[0056] In FIG. 10, display 58 is shown with an image that appears when the system emulates a prior art vacuum florescent display (VFD), like that disclosed in the '961 and '125 patents. The touch screen display image includes a keypad 114, a message screen 116, a bonus button 118, a casino logo 120, and a time display 122. Unless it is otherwise clear from the context, use of the term �button� herein refers to an image of a button on the touch screen, which enables a player to interact with the network by touching screen 58 over the button image. The casino operator has the option, implemented via the Content Manager, of displaying various features such as the bonus button and the system time, dependent upon the operator's preference.
[0057] Emulation mode is advantageous in two situations. First, if the touch screen display has not been configured, or configured incorrectly, the image of FIG. 10 appears. Second, when prior art systems are retrofitted to include some slot machines that incorporate the touch screen LCD of the present invention and others that incorporate the prior art VFD, there may be some network display messages that are not implemented with the multimedia content (�MMC�) used by LCD 58. If so, the system defaults to VFD emulation mode, in which VFD messages are displayed on message screen 116, while the player enters commands using keypad 114 and bonus button 118. In this mode, touch keypad 114 and the message panel 116 emulate the behavior of the prior art VFD and keypad, respectively.
[0058] In another embodiment of the invention, a separate network, i.e., a different network from the one computer 50 is on, is connected to board 106. This separate network provides MMC to board 106 for displaying images or playing audio. Such a network could be used to deliver real-time multimedia content to the display 58 and speakers 110, 112. In addition, this network is used to deliver real-time video, either broadcast or closed circuit, to the display while play is ongoing. The keypad image on the touch screen display is used by the player to select a broadcast or closed-circuit channel. This configuration could permit a player to watch, e.g., a sporting event or other show while gaming.
[0059]FIG. 11 depicts an example of display 58 in idle-attract mode, i.e., when there is no player card inserted in slot 86. When there is no card, the system displays up to 32 full size screens in a repeating sequence. Using a computer and keyboard on the network, the operator can control the duration, time of day, and sound associated with the idle-attract mode.
[0060] The secondary game is implemented as shown in FIG. 12, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. In operation, the player plays the base game in block 124 and is paid in block 128 according to the pay table stored within the slot machine electronics 94 in that game. The gaming machine 12 receives a wager for play of the base game of one or more coins, credits, or points. The amount of such a wager is called a bet.
[0061] The base game has three reels 48, which�in each game�stop according to a random number generated for each reel. One (or more) of the reels includes a special symbol (or symbols) called an initiator symbol. The bonus controller 100 detects if that reel stops on the initiator symbol in block 126. If it does, the bonus controller 100 initiates a special feature in the form of a bonus game and delays the end of the base game. If no bonus symbol is obtained on any one of the reels 48, then the game proceeds to block 128 and the jackpot award from symbols corresponding to the paytable stored in the gaming machine electronics 94 (if any) are awarded to the players credit meter 70 (FIG. 2).
[0062] An initiator symbol on the payline of a gaming machine is but one method for implementing step 126 and one skilled in the art would recognize that any number of criteria could be used for initiating the bonus game. In one example, for instance, the special feature could be initiated under control of the gaming machine processor from a trigger message sent through the gaming machine network from promotion server 46 in conjunction with player database 43 indicating that the player has reached some betting threshold.
[0063] In a preferred implementation, the game incorporates a scripted bonus meaning once the initiator symbol is hit in block 126 then the game proceeds to block 130 in which one of a multiplicity of scripts is selected. The selected script takes the player through the predetermined bonus sequence within the bonus display 58. Each script includes one or more steps and requires player interaction in order to advance to the next step in the sequence.
[0064]FIG. 13 shows a table containing nine possible selectable scripts. While the scripts are preferably stored, selected, and operated within the gaming machine electronics 94, such scripts can be stored, selected, and operated across the gaming machine network shown in FIG. 1. The scripts shown are but representative of the type used in the preferred implementation of the bonus game and it is understood that different or additionally selectable scripts are possible.
[0065] The first column in FIG. 13 depicts the script number from 1 through 9.
[0066] The second column in FIG. 13 depicts the probability of selection associated with each of the scripts. These probabilities are precalculated and stored within the table to ensure that the amounts paid through the bonus game do not cause the game operators to lose money over time but rather are weighted by house odds to cover overhead for operating the machine. The nine scripts shown have a total probability of selection of 100%. Under control of gaming machine microprocessor 52 (FIG. 2), a random or pseudo-random number is generated to determine the script selected according to the probabilities associated with the scripts. A number of 1-30 out of 100 would result in selection of the first script (#1). A number of 31-50 would result in selection of the second script (#2). A number of 51-65 would result in selection of the third script (#3), and so on. Script #9 would be selected if the random number generated is either a 99 or 100 to reflect the 2% probability of selection associated with the script.
[0067] The third column in FIG. 13 depicts the total bonus awarded in the special feature�awarded in block 142 of the FIG. 12 flow diagram�as a function of the total amount bet. If five coins are wagered in a nickel machine, then the bet is twenty-five cents and the total bonus payable to the player is five dollars (20�$0.25) if script one is selected. If script #8 is selected by operation of the random number generator, then the total bonus awarded in block 142 is $13.75 (55�$0.25).
[0068] The fourth column in FIG. 13 depicts the amounts awarded in each step of the bonus script as a function of bet. Operation of the script is explained more fully below.
[0069] Upon selection of the bonus script in block 130, the bonus display 58 is operated to initially depict an assemblage of selectable elements in block 132 such as those schematically shown in FIG. 14 or pictorially shown in FIG. 18. The following illustrates a sample bonus sequence run according to script #4 in FIG. 13 where the player wagers five coins at a time. That is, the fourth column of FIG. 13 for script #4 indicates that there are three scatter pay sub-steps of ten-times-wager, fifteen-times-wager, and five-times-wager. Multiplied by the five-coin wager by the player, the script results in a 50-coin award, a 75-coin award, and a 25-coin award for a total of 150 coins. The �(S)� symbol next to the five-times-wager amount indicates that award as resulting in a stop-selection outcome as explained more fully below.
[0070]FIG. 14 shows a five-by-five grid of selectable elements from A to Y. The gaming machine receives selection of a first one of the twenty-five spaces in block 134 as by a player touching one of the displayed spaces on touch-sensitive screen 58. FIG. 15 illustrates the case where space P is selected. The gaming machine is operated in block 136 to run the first step of the script sequence. Since the script specifies that the first scatter pay award is ten-times-wager, then the amount �50 coins� is displayed within the selected space (block 138). Note that because the script is predetermined, selection of any of the selectable spaces A through Y would have ended with the same result. That is, the step of associated a value with each of the selected one of the elements occurs only after that element has been selected because the gaming machine does not know in advance which element will be selected by the user. Such elements are referred to as nonpredetermined because the elements do not have a value and/or stop-selection flag associated with it until after player selection of the space. The P, H, and T elements in the following example do not have a value associated with them until those spaces are selected. The player, however, is given the illusion that his or her choice affects the amounts awarded within the bonus.
[0071] Play proceeds to block 140 where it is determined whether or not the selection results in an end-bonus event. Such an event is called a stop-selection outcome because such a result would prevent the player from selecting additional spaces. The stop-selection outcome occurs at the end of the script sequence�in the case of script #4, after the third selection. Since this is only the first selection within script #4, play proceeds to block 146 where the amount selected and displayed within the grid is displayed within an accumulated bonus meter 150 (FIG. 18). The script proceeds to the next step in block 148 and the gaming machine is placed in idle mode awaiting selection of the next space from bonus grid in block 134. FIG. 16 depicts selection of space T from the grid, resulting in a second award of 75 coins. FIG. 17 depicts selection of space H from the grid, resulting in a third award of 25 coins. But because the third award is also associated with a top-selection outcome (stopper), then the bonus game proceeds to block 142 in FIG. 12 where the total bonus awards from the three spaces are accumulated and the script is ended in block 144.
[0072] Other scripts result in different sequences. In script #5, for instance, the script sequence results in selection of only a single space before obtaining a stop-selection outcome. In script #9, the stop-selection outcome results after the thirteenth space selection. The final element selected within the script is always associated with both a value and a stop-selection outcome. The value gives the player a positive feeling about the game outcome despite preventing the player from choosing additional bonus spaces.
[0073] The scatter pay amounts shown in FIG. 13 are but one method contemplated for carrying out the invention. In an alternate embodiment, the total bonus amount (column 3) is specified but the scatter amounts are not. Instead, the gaming machine microprocessor 52 operates under an algorithm to operate in one of two ways. In a first way, the microprocessor selects a random or pseudorandom scatter pay amount for each selection up to the total bonus. The script proceeds until the total bonus specified is given out at which point the step-selection outcome is associated with the final space selected. The process can also occur where the number of elements to be selected within the script is determined in advance of the stop-selection outcome as with the preferred embodiment. Once the number of elements is determined, the algorithm can apportion the bonus between each of the elements as those elements are selected.
[0074] In another alternate embodiment, the scatter pay amounts are specified but the order is not where the final amount is associated with the stop-selection outcome. Referring back to the example concerning script #4, the order of the three scatter pay amounts can be determined after the bonus game begins so that the first amount awarded can be either the 10-, 15-, or 5-times-wager amount.
[0075] One preferred theme for operating a bonus on a gaming machine according to the invention is shown in FIG. 18. The bonus grid is constructed on the display 58 to represent chickens in cages sitting on a truck bed. Play involves choosing chickens where each chicken selected awards a value until a chicken with a stopper and a value is chosen. The animation displayed on screen 58 begins in block 132 of FIG. 12 with a car on the screen from the driver's perspective. The driver pulls up along a truck full of chickens. Once the car is parallel to the truck, the player is instructed to begin picking chickens to win their bonus. The player picks each chicken with a value, until a chicken with a stopper and a value is chosen. This stopper ends the bonus. The chickens may have different personalities that are exhibited throughout the bonus.
[0076] Having described and illustrated the principles of the invention in a preferred embodiment thereof, it should be apparent that the invention can be modified in arrangement and detail without departing from such principles. We claim all modifications and variation coming within the spirit and scope of the following claims.
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44 results for "tony stewart"
Stewart fond of one-off tracksJerry Bonkowski
Tony Stewart is still seeking his first win of '04. Dover, however, could end that hunt.Story | Conversation | June 05, 2004
RIR special place for StewartJerry Bonkowski
Richmond didn't start out Tony Stewart's favorite place, but now the Cup star rates it high on his list.Story | Conversation | May 15, 2004
Prodigy eager for Cup debutJerry Bonkowski
Kyle Busch is so young and talented, NASCAR made an age rule to keep him away. Now 18, he's back.Story | Conversation | March 03, 2004
Stewart eager to show Yeley the ropesJerry Bonkowski
Tony Stewart has worn a lot of hats in his race career. Now he'll try his hand as a coach of sorts.Story | Conversation | November 28, 2003
Cup season has lacked characterJerry Bonkowski
Matt Kenseth is a worthy champion, but the 2003 Winston Cup season lacked Tony Stewart's spice.Story | Conversation | November 04, 2003
Wisconsin's favorite Iceman has no tellJerry Bonkowski
If this were poker, Matt Kenseth already would have won. Don't expect two bad races to derail his quest.Story | Conversation | October 07, 2003
Stewart primed for strong runJerry Bonkowski
Tony Stewart's having his worst season in five years of Cup racing. But don't assume the champ's done.Story | Conversation | September 26, 2003
Stewart sticks with what he knowsJerry Bonkowski
2002 Cup champ Tony Stewart did the right thing in signing a contract extension with Joe Gibbs.Story | Conversation | September 02, 2003
Another one they'll love to hateJerry Bonkowski
Kurt Busch said he was sorry for spinning Sterling Marlin, but he's still not taking responsibility.Story | Conversation | August 26, 2003
Calm and collected, Stewart chases IndyJerry Bonkowski
Indianapolis Motor Speedway is Tony Stewart's dream and his nightmare. This year, he's playing it cool.Story | Conversation | July 30, 2003
Stewart strong at ChicagolandJerry Bonkowski
Tony Stewart might not be in the position he was last season, but he's moving in the right direction.Story | Conversation | July 13, 2003
Stewart taking gentleman's approachJerry Bonkowski
Everyone expected defending champion Tony Stewart to be NASCAR's bad boy, but it hasn't happened.Story | Conversation | June 24, 2003
More drivers could rebound soonJerry Bonkowski
Nobody should be surprised that Tony Stewart and Ryan Newman found Victory Lane recently.Story | Conversation | June 10, 2003
Title defense off to bumpy startJerry Bonkowski
Tony Stewart is looking to rebound after being plagued by bad luck and tough circumstances in recent weeks.Story | Conversation | June 03, 2003
Stewart aims for first Fontana winJerry Bonkowski
Winston Cup champ Tony Stewart spent his off-weekend doing what he loves: racing.Story | Conversation | April 24, 2003
Stewart, Earnhardt both strong at AMSJerry Bonkowski
If history is a guide, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Tony Stewart could put on a great show in Atlanta.Story | Conversation | March 07, 2003

subset: commoncrawl


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Downtown Mount Holly, Mount HollyNatSci Walks - Naturalist and Scientist will lead an expedition (walk) discovering what our nearby nature has to offer such as; lichens, polypores, deer rubs, beaver chews, tracks, scats, wildflowe...
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Catawba College, SalisburyHedrick Theatre Catawba Music presents a Vernaculars performance on Friday, December 5 at 7:30pm in Hedrick Little Theatre.
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Main Street Children's Museum, Rock HillFollow the reader to Main Street Children's Museum for OWL (Our Wee Literature) Book Club! Featured author Tameka Fryer Brown will share her work, Around Our Way, and will be available for a book ...
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Written by RALPH D. RUSSO, AP College Football Writer
The sideline is often the worst place to watch a football game. Even for the head coach standing front and center, getting a good look at what is happening on the field can be difficult.
Last Updated on Wednesday, 01 October 2014
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Written by TOM WITHERS, AP Sports Writer
CLEVELAND (AP) — Dormant for years, the rivalry between the Washington Wizards and Cleveland Cavaliersmay be back.
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KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Rain had started to fall at Kauffman Stadium as the echoing roars finally faded into the night. Eric Hosmer popped out of the dugout one last time, looked to the sky and let it soak in.
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COLUMBUS — Ohio State whooshed up and down the field just as Urban Meyer always envisioned it could Saturday night.
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Written by ANTONIO GONZALEZ, AP Basketball Writer
OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) — Golden State Warriors general manager Bob Myers made an impromptu visit to Steve Kerr's office last week and couldn't stop staring at the walls.
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Search results for nivea
Shots Fired: The Dream Calls Baby Mama Christina Milian A "Gold Digging-Has Been" After She Threw Shade On His Daddying Skills
Making It Rain On Them Hoes: Forbes Releases Their List Of Highest Paid Celebrities Under 30
Can you guess who's #1??
More Love: The Beautiful Cakes Of Women We'd Like To See In Future Episodes Of Love & Hip-Hop
We love Love & Hip-Hop…but these ladies would spice it up.
Break Up To Make Up? Broken Up Couples That Still Have Strong Feelings For Each Other…Will They Reunite Soon?!
So much back and forth! We can't take it!
Don't Mess With My Man! Famous Women That Will Fight For And Stick Up For Their Boo Thangs
Don't mess with my maaaaaan, I'm a be the one to bring it to ya!
Over So Soon??? Drizzy Spent New Year's Eve With A Light-Skinned Jawn NOT Named Dollicia Bryan
Maybe hoes DON'T always win.
#Losing: People With The Most Questionable Chop Down Resumes Of All Time
We already showed you the people with the best resumes when it comes to conquering the opposite sex. Now, let's look at some people that failed.
Playing With Fire: People That Clearly Didn't Understand The Importance Of Wrapping It Up!
PSA: always practice safe sex!
Galleries: Weezy's Lil Girl Reginae Carter's Cinderella Themed 13th Birthday Bash
Lil Wayne and ex-wife Toya Wright threw a splendiferous celebration for daughter Reginae's 13th birthday.


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Many Christians want to shape God into our own idea of Who we think He should be. Find out just how subtle this can be, and how dangerous. read more
Charisma Magazine
Page 6 of 316
Bishop Bill Hamon's Wife Passes Away
Please pray for this prophetic pioneer as he mourns the loss of his wife. read more
In Christ, There Are No Nobodies
This crucial yet often-overlooked truth is key to the success or failure of your church. Where do you fit into this picture? read more
5 Warning Signs That Prophetic Ministry Has Gone Awry
Even the most anointed ministries can veer off course into deadly territory. Watch out for these five signs that your ministry might be going the wrong direction. read more
Spiritual Adultery and Fornication in the 21st-Century Church
What some were calling "deeper truths" in the early church, Jesus said were the depths of Satan. Things haven't changed too much in the modern church. read more
Bill Johnson: You Don't Have to Settle for Fruitlessness
Bill Johnson has made quite an impact with his healing ministry, but it didn't suddenly materialize out of thin air. Find out how curiosity, conviction and impartation led to finally seeing healing happen. read more
It's Time to Get Ahabs out of Our Pulpits
Do pastors who turn a blind eye to sin in the nation to keep people in the seats, giving money and attending programs also turn a blind eye to sin in the church for the same reasons? read more
Ulf Ekman Faces His Accusers After Catholic Conversion
'Some wondered how I, who seem to have been standing strong for so many years, could fall for such an outright deception and lie.' read more
After Ulf Ekman's Catholic Conversion, Charismatic Leader Rises to Fill Void in Sweden
ORU's Mark Rutland and David Yonggi Cho are supporting the new initiative in Uppsala. read more
Mark Driscoll, Spiritual Abuse and Cultish Ministries
It takes courage to confront spiritual abuse—and help to escape it. read more
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7 Stumbling Blocks to Sexual Purity
Women struggle with sexual temptation as much as men although it's more subtle. Here are 7 ways ...
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Chuck Pierce Prophesies 'Dragon' Hovering Over Israel
Flying into Tel Aviv earlier this month, Chuck Pierce saw an unusual sunset that looked like it was ...
9 Things Wives Should Never Say to Their Husbands
This time, it's the husbands' turn. What other phrases have you discovered that cause more ...
7 Positive End-Times Signs Unfolding Now
Not all signs related to the Second Coming are negative. Here are seven encouraging and exciting ...
5 Ways to Respond When Someone Leaves Your Church
Do you shun or stay in someone's life when they leave your church? Here's some insight on ...
The Danger of Christian Celebrity
The world doesn't need more Christian celebrities. Neither does the church
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What Would Jesus Say to Kim Kardashian?
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Too much of the church is sinking in the quagmire of apostasy. Here are key scriptural elements ...
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Stop flailing your limbs and cursing your situation. Take these simple steps to grow beyond the ...
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A frequent business type near A R Peter & Son is Public Houses .
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Using a custom rig that includes three projectors, this gamer has transformed his gaming space into a full-sized cockpit for Elite: Dangerous.
The popular TV series, which was canceled by NBC in May, is resurrected with 13 new episodes exclusively on the tech giant's video platform.
A new device seeking funding on Kickstarter uses Polaroid technology to let you wirelessly print photos from your smartphone.
The world's largest social network says it will create a "fix" for people caught up in the company's "real-name policy."
In true Reddit fashion, the social news site says it will share 10 percent of equity from the Series B funding round with its community members.
Google's social network service is an excellent resource for Android owners to get more out of their device. Whether you're brand new to the platform or looking to push your handset to its limits, there's something for everyone.
In the latest major security breach, Community Health Systems says it's been hacked, affecting the information of 4.5 million people. The hospital network, with more than 200 locations nationwide, believes the hack originated in China. In this Inside Scoop, CNET's Kara Tsuboi and senior writer Seth Rosenblatt discuss the specific kind of breach and what you can do to protect yourself if your data has been stolen.
According to the Wall Street Journal, some photographers are upset the Yahoo-owned site is selling prints of photos they meant to give away for free.
The Facebook CEO will host another ask-me-anything session with the public, on December 11.
Silicon Valley investor Adam Draper is refocusing his accelerator program solely on bitcoin, in hopes of taking the currency mainstream.


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6 New Mom Secrets
Sleep Deprivation Can Be Debilitating!
Allison Taylor recalls that before giving birth, she "read a ton of baby-care manuals and listened to hours of advice from other parents." But the nuts-and-bolts reality of night feedings didn't register until daughter Olivia was in her arms. "In all the reading I'd done, I was shocked that nobody explained the actual breakdown of a baby's feeding schedule," she says. "Breastfeeding every two to four hours doesn't mean you'll have two to four hours of sleep in between. This was really rough to find out!" By the time you've finished nursing, burping, changing the diaper, and putting the baby back to sleep, it's possible that you'll have only one hour, or less, before the next feeding.
These nights of fragmented sleep often last for up to three months, but we're letting you know now: Some infants take longer to sleep through the night. It was five months before Catherine Calame's daughter, Charlotte, snoozed for six hours straight. "No one tells you how tired you're really going to be," says Calame, who lives in Bayport, New York. "And being tired makes everything harder." In a 2006 study of new mothers conducted by Lamaze International and Harris Interactive, exhaustion was the most common complaint with a whopping 62 percent of women citing it as a problem.
That said, you may be pleasantly surprised at your ability to adapt to interrupted snooze time. "In the months after my daughter's birth, I learned to fall asleep for catnaps," Taylor says. "And the extreme fatigue definitely helped me become a champion at getting back to sleep quickly after a feeding."


text:
I'll admit it: I've always liked Mandy Moore. Okay, maybe not when she was singing those bubble gum tunes in the late '90's, but since she has decided to go the acting way. I always found her believable and cute. I even love that commercial for the Diane Keaton movie, Because I Said So, where she says, "I am asking for it!"
So to hear her say that she isn't a size 2 and is okay with it, just makes me love her more. She tells Seventeen in the March issue, "I'm not like a toothpick, and I never will be. I'm just a regular-looking person – and that's okay. It's taken a while to come to grips with that since it's definitely not the norm in my business. But like, who cares?"
I know, I know. Plenty of Hollywood starlets who aren't Nicole Richie thin say things like this, but I happen to believe Mandy.
Though now she's spending time with Richie's ex, DJ AM, Mandy also opened up about her breakup last year with Zach Braff and how, like all of us, she was very depressed after they split. "It was a really intense and emotional year, and I was like, I'm gonna put all my feelings in a box and worry about that later. But sooner or later you have to deal," she revealed. So Mandy recorded a new CD, which comes out May 8, and spilled her guts.
And you know what? I like her so much I may even listen to someone else's copy.


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Benchmarking VirtIO Performance Within DigitalOcean's Cloud
Published on 29 March 2014 10:14 AM EDT
Written by
Michael Larabel
Comment On This Article
How does toggling VirtIO affect the performance of virtual machines / droplets within DigitalOcean's public cloud? Here's some benchmarks.
DigitalOcean's cloud makes it easy to enable/disable VirtIO when making a new droplet. VirtIO is designed to enhance I/O performance around block devices (storage) and network interfaces. In continuing from yesterday's article about
trying out and benchmarking the DigitalOcean cloud
, I ran some tests of the quad-core instance with 8GB of RAM and 80GB of storage with and without VirtIO.
The results from this quick VirtIO comparison with looking at the Linux disk performance using Ubuntu 13.10 x86_64 can be found on OpenBenchmarking.org with
VirtIO should generally enhance the disk performance for virtual machines...
But in some Linux disk benchmarks, disabling VirtIO led to better results.
Again, see
all of the results on OpenBenchmarking.org
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text: Philadelphia Eagles Fans In Minnesota View full-size image < previous next > Is this photo a winner? "We travel with to one away game each year for the Philadelphia Eagles. This year I made shirts for myself and some of my travel companions. On the back it said "Your Country is Now Eagles Country" Most of us didnt show them until after the Eagles won the game...just in case. Everyone loved them. Thanks for making them so easy to order and look very professional! They were so good we even sold one to a Vikings Fan!" - http://www.mandjtravel.com - Gina_V (Jan 15, 2008) Share this photo on: Twitter Facebook Pinterest Similar Photos: sports | green | football | fan | occasion | hanes tagless | philadelphia eagles Feeling inspired? Visit the CustomInk Design Lab to start your own group order. Design Your Own comment by anonymous - Jan 15, 2008 - back to the top So much fun!! Go Birds! comment by anonymous - Jan 15, 2008 - back to the top At least they won the game! comment by anonymous - Jan 17, 2008 - back to the top Good work! I want to come next year! I think Bill does too!!!


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Monson: Utes' Hatfield an extraordinary man doing extraordinary things
Dominique Hatfield felt the plumbing back up in his eyes and spill out of his eye sockets the day they buried his close friend and teammate, Marvin, in his football jersey five years ago. Talk about traumatic and devastating. Both kids were just 14 years old.
Marvin was walking home from the store in Crenshaw, on one of the meaner streets in one of the meaner neighborhoods in Los Angeles. That's where he and Hatfield lived, in housing on those streets, slammed between desperation and despair.
Hatfield's tears splashed off the floor at the funeral, punctuating one of those defining moments in the cruel life of a young person forced to choose for himself which direction to take. He had seen drugs sold and used, he had seen shootings, he had seen gangs doing their business.
And he was tempted, just like so many other youngsters there, to get sucked into a destructive vortex bound to bring quick cash and lasting heartache. He knew from what he had already witnessed and felt that there was no real future in any of that.
"I wasn't always the smartest guy," he says. "I didn't always make the best decisions. But with help of family and friends, I took a different road."
That road led him to Utah, where the 19-year-old sophomore will do something this season that almost nobody does anymore.
He will play both offense and defense — as a receiver and as a cornerback. And he's looking forward to an uncommon challenge that pales in comparison to what he's already overcome.
"Coming out of Crenshaw, I saw some of the best football and basketball players that nobody's ever heard of that went down a bad route, and now things aren't good for them," he says. "Seeing them helped me make it out. … It's up to you if you want to get out. If you want something better, you have to choose. And you need help from some of the people around you. I had that help from family and friends. That's why I'm here."
Utah recruited Hatfield early on in high school, on a team that included De'Anthony Thomas and Marcus Martin, and stayed on him.
When it came time to make a decision about where he'd play his college ball, he says he remembered the Utes' effort: "Coming out of high school, I feel like I was underrated. Utah stuck with me, helped me grind it out. It was a tough road to get here and they were there every step of the way. They committed to me and I committed to them. And now we're just … here."
Here, there, everywhere.
Hatfield started out at Utah as a promising receiver and it looked as though that's where he would make his mark — until injuries in preseason practices called him back to the defensive side, a role he had played at Crenshaw High. Now, cornerbacks coach Sharrieff Shah says Hatfield will play both ways.
"I watched him play corner [in high school] in championship games," he says. "I wanted him at corner before they wanted him at receiver. I wanted him. But coach Whit said, 'Shut up, quit poisoning the well. Let him play receiver.' He's phenomenal. I love him. He's got things to work on, but I love what he brings.
"[He has] unbelievably good hips. He can deduce relatively quickly what a receiver is doing. He's able to put himself in a position to make a play. That's a natural trait because he played receiver at this level. And his aggressiveness for a guy 5-10, 160, soaking wet with two shoulder pads on. He's tough. He loves the competition. He loves a personal battle. … I love his skill set. Tremendous ball skills. Now, it's getting him disciplined, to have cornerback eyes, not receiver eyes. You're a playmaker. You have to stop the reception."
Shah says Hatfield has great natural instincts — "He has phenomenally quick feet" — and he's a fast learner, which he would have to be to play two such critical positions.
"I wouldn't be surprised if we see him on both sides of the ball throughout the year," Shah says. "He's a fighter."
The coach says Hatfield's rough background and frame of reference is the "perfect formula" for playing cornerback at the highest of levels. And the confident Hatfield says the two-way thing, though rare now, is nothing he can't handle:
"[Cornerback] is coming back quickly. I'm working at it everyday. I get one-on-one time where we're working on the field. I do extra film study. I watch the best defenders like Deion Sanders and Richard Sherman. I watch them daily, just to see what I can do better. It's coming back pretty easy.


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November 26, 2014
June 27, 2007
Elizabeth Edwards called in to the MSNBC program "Hardball" with Chris Matthews Tuesday asking conservative commentator Ann Coulter to stop personal attacks on Edwards' husband.
Coulter was a guest on the program appearing on an outdoor set with dozens of supporters and detractors waiting to ask the controversial commentator questions.
According to the Edwards campaign, Elizabeth Edwards decided she wanted to call in when she heard Coulter would be asking questions. The plea came a day after Coulter said she wished Edwards' husband, John Edwards, had been killed by terrorists.
During the exchange Edwards called Coulter's remarks "a dialog on hatefulness and ugliness." Coulter charged that Edwards was calling on her to stop speaking altogether.
"I don't think I need to be told to stop writing by Elizabeth Edwards, thank you" said Coulter.
Click Here to access the online Public Inspection File
Viewers with disabilities can get assistance accessing this station's FCC Public Inspection File by contacting the station with the information listed below. Questions or concerns relating to the accessibility of the FCC's online public file system should be directed to the FCC at 888-225-5322, 888-835-5322 (TTY), or firstname.lastname@example.com.


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Added Mar 20, 2012
by AnitaS7
Nrw, Germany
Unfortunately, it suits me not so good Next time I will take Satin fabric than Jersey.
My Body are not so fit for this lovley dress
Dec 6, 2012, 07.25 PMby Titania313
Did you alter the length? I am making this dress for Christmas, but I am 168cm, so I think I will have to lengthen it a bit.
Dec 12, 2012, 04.46 PMby AnitaS7
Oh, I am 160 so I have shortened it.
I would sew it longer, and then adjust with the right shoes.
Sep 20, 2012, 01.55 PMby oliviabones
You look stunning!
Apr 24, 2012, 08.06 PMby ginjaninja
Looks amazing! Even in jersey!
Mar 21, 2012, 09.44 AMby bjr99
This dress looks fantastic!
Mar 21, 2012, 09.11 AMby libbysharf
Very beautiful and sexy. I wish I had some kind of event to go to with this dress
Mar 21, 2012, 08.41 AMby iin
Mar 21, 2012, 06.48 AMby zetinja
I agree with the others. It looks fantastic! It looks comfy and sexy at the same time.
Though if you are worried about lines of underwear or something showing throuh, a high waisted tights would smooth out all of that.
Mar 21, 2012, 06.45 AMby freakusbzzz
I think it is very flattering
Mar 20, 2012, 11.44 PMby mojo elgin
Seriously?!? You are GORGEOUS in this dress!
Mar 20, 2012, 08.41 PMby mixtlii
What are you talking about, it looks perfect on you!!! The diagonal cut in the back is very sexy ;)
Mar 20, 2012, 08.41 PMby mixtlii
What are you talking about, it looks perfect on you!!! The diagonal cut in the back is very sexy ;)
Mar 20, 2012, 08.26 PMby lienepien
Add to Favorites 6 people added it
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- Northern Illinois to get $8.3 million for state construction projects
- Tree-lighting festival kicks off holiday season in Machesney Park
- Roscoe Boy Scout Troop's tree stand at new location
- Tips for selecting safe toys for kids this holiday season
- Prayer service for World AIDS Day Nov. 30
- Food Bank joins national #GivingTuesday movement
- Lee Hamilton: What lies ahead for Congress
- Rockford Public Schools faces $8.8 deficit, board OKs flat tax, HR chief
- Literary Hook: A holiday tradition: 'This Thanksgiving, Remember'
- Cold snap does not negate global warming
U.S. Labor Department proposes updates to child labor regulations to improve safety of young ag workers
Online Staff Report
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Labor is proposing revisions to child labor regulations that will strengthen the safety requirements for young workers employed in agriculture and related fields.
The agricultural hazardous occupations orders under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) that bar young workers from certain tasks have not been updated since they were promulgated in 1970.
The department is proposing updates based on the enforcement experiences of its Wage and Hour Division, recommendations made by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, and a commitment to bring parity between the rules for young workers employed in agricultural jobs and the more stringent rules that apply to those employed in nonagricultural workplaces. The proposed regulations would not apply to children working on farms owned by their parents.
"Children employed in agriculture are some of the most vulnerable workers in America," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "Ensuring their welfare is a priority of the department, and this proposal is another element of our comprehensive approach."
The proposal would strengthen current child labor regulations prohibiting agricultural work with animals and in pesticide handling, timber operations, manure pits and storage bins. It would prohibit farmworkers younger than 16 from participating in the cultivation, harvesting and curing of tobacco. And it would prohibit youth in both agricultural and nonagricultural employment from using electronic, including communication, devices while operating power-driven equipment.
The department also is proposing to create a new nonagricultural hazardous occupations order that would prevent children younger than 18 from being employed in the storing, marketing and transporting of farm product raw materials. Prohibited places of employment would include country grain elevators, grain bins, silos, feed lots, stockyards, livestock exchanges and livestock auctions.
Additionally, the proposal would prohibit farmworkers younger than 16 from operating almost all power-driven equipment. A similar prohibition has existed as part of the nonagricultural child labor provisions for more than 50 years. A limited exemption would permit some student learners to operate certain farm implements and tractors, when equipped with proper rollover protection structures and seat belts, under specified conditions.
The Wage and Hour Division employs a combination of enforcement, compliance assistance and collaboration strategies in partnership with states and community-based organizations to protect children working in the United States. When violations of law are found, the division uses all enforcement tools necessary to ensure accountability and deter future violations.
The division is responsible for enforcing the FLSA, which establishes federal child labor provisions for both agricultural and nonagricultural employment, and charges the secretary of labor with prohibiting employment of youth in occupations that she finds and declares to be particularly hazardous for them. The FLSA establishes a minimum age of 18 for hazardous work in nonagricultural employment and 16 in agricultural employment. Once agricultural workers reach age 16, they are no longer subject to the FLSA's child labor provisions. The FLSA also provides a complete exemption for youths employed on farms owned by their parents.
The public is invited to provide comments about this proposal, which must be received by Nov. 1. A public hearing on the proposal will be held following the comment period. More information, including a complete list of the proposed revisions, is available in the Sept. 2 Federal Register.


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General Electric to give Saudi women scholarships
General Electric (GE) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Dammam to provide scholarships for talented female Saudi students over the next three years.
GE will extend annual scholarships to students, highlighting the company's commitment to further strengthen Saudi human capital development, and as part of the SR 22 million scholarships being offered by GE to Saudi students annually.
GE provides 60 Saudi university students with academic scholarships each year. Educational scholarships are provided to 30 students of the King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM), while 30 scholarships are provided exclusively to female students from various universities in the Kingdom including the University of Dammam.
In the presence of Dr. Khalid Al-Anqari, Minister of Higher Education, the MoU was signed by Dr. Abdullah M. Al Rubaish, Rector of the University of Dammam, and Hisham Albahkali, GE's President & CEO for Saudi Arabia and Bahrain.
Albahkali said: "We are thankful to the University of Dammam, a leading biomedical engineering institution, for the opportunity to collaborate and offer our scholarship program to its students. We are excited to partner on this initiative, which highlights our commitment to strengthen the talents and academic orientation of Saudi students, enabling them to achieve excellent results, and thus build a strong talent pipeline of future business leaders.
"We are keen to recruit, empower, and nurture Saudi talent for rewarding careers across our diverse businesses. At GE, we want to be associated with the best student talents, especially females, to promote workplace diversity and create career opportunities for Saudi youth."
The MoU was signed at the International Exhibition and Conference on Higher Education (IECHE, 2014) held recently in Riyadh. The event was hosted by the Ministry of Higher Education and was attended by more than 100 top universities.
Over the years, GE has developed several successful co-op programs with leading Saudi institutions. GE has also unveiled a 50,000 sq. m advanced training facility, the GE Technical Academy in Jubail, developed in cooperation with the Saudi Technical & Vocational Training Corporation (TVTC) and supported by the Human Resources Development Fund (Hadaf).
As part of its $1 billion investment commitment to the Kingdom, GE has joined hands with Saudi Aramco and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) to launch the first all-female business process services center in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The center will be staffed by Saudi females and will initially serve Saudi Aramco and GE as anchor clients. GE will create up to 1,000 employment opportunities for this initiative.
Top Headlines
- What legal authority, though? Egypt resorts to private firms for campus security
- Not 9-5 but 24/7. What can Abu Dhabi to do ease tough working conditions of labourers?
- A bit harsh? New proposal wants to cap how long expats can reside in Kuwait
- Expensive education: GCC to spend $90 billion on education construction by 2020
- AUB students start the academic year with 'mixed emotions' as strike looms
- Scholarship Program to Equip Women Executives in Travel and Tourism Sector with Skills to Climb Corporate Ladder
- 8-year-old Yemeni child dies at hands of 40-year-old husband on wedding night
- Ladies in da house: Saudi unveiled a satellite channel just for females
- If you're a Saudi woman trying to buy a house, give up now


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UAE retailers out of iPhone 6 and 6 Plus
It may not be easy to buy the new Apple Smartphone even after the stocks are replenished…September 29, 2014 4:41
Register for our free newsletter
UAE dirham at one-year low in forwards market vs dollar
UAE's Dana Gas in talks with Egypt over revising gas prices
Oil falls $2 to 4-year low on OPEC output cut doubts
Dubai's Emaar rebounds ahead of ex-dividend date
UAE's Dana Gas in talks with Egypt over revising gas prices
Oil prices fall as OPEC is unlikely to cut production
Gulf OPEC oil producers agree not to cut output
Saudi, UAE signal no push for OPEC oil cut
HSBC to refund Middle East, Africa customers for excessive fees
UAE sees oil price stabilising, steps up pressure on non-OPEC
It may not be easy to buy the new Apple Smartphone even after the stocks are replenished…September 29, 2014 4:41
Thinking about buying the iPhone 6? Take a closer look at the Smartphone before cashing out...September 26, 2014 3:05
The firm launches smartphones with bigger screens, watch and payment platformSeptember 9, 2014 11:17
When can we get our hands on the iPhone 6 here in the UAE? No one knows.August 6, 2014 7:15
In the modern tech era, we have an abundance of digital media devices, but which is the best?August 5, 2014 4:12
TRA reveals smartphone brands' market share among residents.December 22, 2013 5:47
Jumbo Group's CEO expects phones and tablets to be hottest-selling products this year.November 8, 2013 10:05
Brands are offering over-complicated services, report reveals.October 31, 2013 5:38
The Korean company appears to have taken to 'the street' method of fighting back against its most powerful rival...September 16, 2012 10:01
Analysts don't see Apple losing any races anytime soon but with the unveiling of the iPhone 5, the world appreciates the fragility of its potential...September 11, 2012 1:30


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2014 Grammys Performances [VIDEO]
Chris Daughtry's 5 Best American Idol Performances [VIDEO]
Chris Daughtry and his band are so popular and successful they're in demand for big gigs, like playing the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas on Valentine's Day (oh, and by the way, you and your sweetheart can win a trip to see them).
Super Bowl Commercials 2014 [VIDEO]
The official countdown to the Big Game is on and so is the race for the best Super Bowl commercial of 2014. Here's a sneak peek of some of the commercials that will air on Super Sunday.
It's Over for The Captain and Tennile [VIDEO]
Look like the Muskrat Love is over for 70's singing duo The Captain and Tennile. I guess love couldn't keep them together... It's kinda sad...
Winter Driving Tips for Snowy Weather [VIDEO]
Looks like we could get socked with a foot of snow in South Jersey... The best advice for driving in the snow is to stay home and don't drive at all. If you are on the road, particularly this afternoon and tonight please use caution and follow these safe driving tips
The Professor Passes Away at 89 [VIDEO]
Actor Russell Johnson who became a TV Icon on the 60's sitcom "Gilligan's Island" passed away today at the age of 89.
Creepy Video of the Week
I'll be honest, this video really gives me the creeps big time!
Gov. Christie Wants Longer School Day and Year [VIDEO]
Gov. Christie gave his annual state of the state address today in Trenton. One of the many topics from his speech was education.
Cute Video of the Week: Animals Watching TV
This video just might put a smile on your face on this grey and rainy afternoon. It's a funny compilation of animals watching TV.
Lucy The Amazing Beagle Deserves Some Kind of Award [VIDEO]
Have you ever wondered what exactly your pet is up to when your're not home?
Late Night Reunion for Paul and Ringo [VIDEO]
It's hard to believe that we're coming up to the 50th anniversary of Beatlemania next month. To celebrate the Fab Four's golden anniversary Paul and Ringo may actually be performing together on stage once again.


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|Unique American Classics join Bonhams' inaugural automobile auction next week in Boca Raton, Florida
| In just a few days Bonhams' anticipated automobile auction will take place at Florida's elegant Boca Raton Resort & Club. Held in conjunction with the Boca Raton Concours d'Elegance, the auction will host an impressive line-up of collectors' automobiles from around the world.
In addition to the many headlining European cars, Bonhams has consigned many American cars of noteworthy status.
The immaculately restored 1930 Duesenberg Model J Torpedo Phaeton (pictured) is a car that can only be described in superlatives. The Model J was considered the best of the marque and quite simply the 'World's Finest Motor Car' in its day. The epitome of luxury, power and style, Duesenbergs were never commonplace and this particular car underscores this image, carrying the added distinction of belonging to E.L. Cord's wife and appearing in several Hollywood movies.
With its wood paneling and convertible top, few cars are more representative of post-WWII affluence and Americana than the 1946 Chrysler Town & Country Convertible. Meticulously maintained to exacting standards, this is a gorgeous example of a legendary woody.
|Recent Articles
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• The sole remaining original of only two purpose-built IMSA specification XJR-9s constructed, chassis 388 enjoyed huge record of success through 1988, 1989 and 1990
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|Pinehurst Concours Announces Chief Judge for 2015VILLAGE OF PINEHURST, N.C. (Nov. 20, 2014) – Internationally-renowned concours judge Nigel Matthews has been named chief judge of the 2015 Pinehurst Concours d'Elegance, a vintage car showcase the first Saturday in May in the North Carolina Sandhills, event president Jay Howard announced Thursday.
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• Regarded as South Florida's premier collector car auction, the multi-day sale is expected to feature nearly 500 cars spanning all segments of the collector car market
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• Lagonda 'EPE 97' sets a new world record, selling at £1,569,500
1930 OM Superba achieves £1,255,900 whilst a Lot 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster sold above estimate at £651,100
A duo of historic Maseratis: the 4CM Single-Seat Vetturetta sold for £427,100; and 6CM Single-Seat Vetturetta sold for £606,300
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|BONHAMS TO OFFER RARE FERRARI 275 GTB ALLOY BERLINETTA FOR BOND STREET SALEA 1965 Ferrari 275 GTB Alloy-bodied Berlinetta - once considered to be the finest production Ferrari ever built - is to star in Bonhams New Bond Street auction, carrying an estimate of £1,500,000-2,000,000.
James Knight, Bonhams International Motoring Director, said: 'This is a wonderfully original, long-term preserved, Ferrari 275 'Longnose' Berlinetta offered from the Maranello Rosso Collection. It is one of the finest examples of its type that we at Bonhams have ever had the privilege to o....
|LE MANS WINNING SCUDERIA FILIPINETTI FERRARI 275 GTB COMPETIZIONE JOINS BONHAMS SCOTTSDALE AUCTIONThe Ferrari Classiche red book certified, three times Le Mans entrant, Spa-Francorchamps winner, Imola winner and concours award recipient joins impressive early consignments for January's sale
Bonhams is delighted to announce the consignment of a very special and historic competition Ferrari to its auction in Scottsdale, Arizona next January.
From the most famous and respected name in sports and racing is the 1966 Ferrari 275 Gran Turismo Berlinetta Competizione Scaglietti – class winner ....
|2014 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance Raises Record Amount for CharityDonations to Charities in 2014 Total $1.9 million
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'We're proud to host an event that strives to set the bar for excellence in the automotive ....


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Editing of Bulbapedia is currently restricted. Please see this message for more details.
Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire are coming this November!
Check BNN and Bulbanews for up-to-date Pokémon news and discuss it on the forums or in our IRC channel.
User talk:DIALGA
From Bulbapedia, the community-driven Pokémon encyclopedia.
As a fellow Dialga, I have learned not to do things like that. I have learned the hard way not to put stuff like that into articles. Please don't do that, or else you're not gonna make any friends and you could get blocked. --DialgaRULES 01:09, 6 December 2008 (UTC)


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- Boys' basketball holiday tournament tips off tonight
- Ribbon-cutting for Children's Holiday Shoppe Nov. 26; shop is open Nov. 29-Dec. 21
- Rockford Rescue Mission invites community to Thanksgiving banquet Nov. 26
- Rockton's new business district welcomes family owned Dr. Detail U.S. Cellular
- 2014 Illinois Emerging Writers Competition winners named
- Open house for new library executive director tonight
- Freeport murder suspect Damon Dixson taken into custody in Rockford
- Local gas station employee arrested for selling liquor to minor
- Renewable Fuel Standard delay 'a mixed blessing,' Bustos says
- Rockford delegation presents inaugural 'Rockford Award' to Norwegian Air
Free hearing exams for women offered May 14-18
Staff Report
Professional Hearing & Audiology Clinic is joining the Better Hearing Institute (BHI) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in celebrating National Women's Health Week by offering free hearing examinations May 14-18 for women in the community.
National Women's Health Week is a nationwide initiative that calls attention to the importance of women's health. The theme for National Women's Health Week 2012 is "It's Your Time."
During the week, families, health organizations, businesses, communities, the government and individuals come together to raise awareness about women's health issues and educate women about simple steps they can take for a longer, healthier and happier life.
"Unaddressed hearing loss is one of the most unrecognized health issues in America today," said Donald R. Kleindl II, BC-HIS, ACA, MCAP, director of Professional Hearing & Audiology Clinics. "Yet, hearing health affects virtually every aspect of a woman's life. It affects her quality of life and well-being; along with how well she is able to communicate with others. It also affects how well she is able to communicate with her health care providers regarding other health issues that she may face."
Numerous studies have linked untreated hearing loss to a range of physical and emotional conditions, including irritability, negativism, anger, fatigue, tension, stress, depression, avoidance or withdrawal from social situations, social rejection and loneliness, reduced alertness and increased risk to personal safety, impaired memory and ability to learn new tasks, reduced job performance and earning power, and diminished psychological and overall health.
"National Women's Health Week is important because it encourages women to take time for their health," said Sheree R. Anderson MA,CCC-A., audiologist at Professional Hearing & Audiology Clinics. "Women are often the caregivers for their families, and as a result forget to make their own health a priority. With National Women's Health Week, we can remind women that regularly scheduled hearing evaluations are an important part of a woman's overall health. We encourage all women to visit their local hearing specialist to make certain their screenings are up to date."
Sergei Kochkin, BHI's executive director, added: "Women assume many important roles in our society. How well they hear affects how well they can communicate and manage their many responsibilities. Unaddressed hearing loss only adds to a woman's stress and fatigue because it requires so much effort to listen to what someone is saying.
National Women's Health Week kicks off on Mother's Day, May 13, and will be celebrated until May 19. In addition, the WOMAN Challenge, an eight-week online physical activity and nutritional program will be offered.
For more about National Woman's Health Week, visit http://www.womenshealth.gov/whw. To schedule a free hearing examination, contact one of two local Professional Hearing & Audiology Clinics — at 1415 E. State St., Suite A1, Rockford, (815) 964-3131, and at the corner of Riverside and Mulford roads at 3957 N. Mulford Road, Suite B, Rockford, (815) 637-1777.
From the May 2-8, 2012, issue