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Jun 02 2011
Where to see contemporary art in Kuala Lumpur
Given that window shopping is the most popular cultural activity in Kuala Lumpur, it may come as a surprise to visitors that the city has a thriving contemporary art scene. To be honest, it's probably somewhat of a shock for many residents too. The main problem with seeing contemporary art in Kuala Lumpur is that much of it is so badly publicised. And even when the information is out there, the majority of the city's best art spaces are in hard-to-find locations.
That includes the excellent National Art Gallery, stuck out in Titiwangsa, miles away from the nearest train station. Despite being a pain to get to, the NAG is well worth a visit. The building may look like it's falling to pieces from the outside, but the quality of the artwork on the inside is anything but shoddy.
Several interesting exhibitions are running until mid-June, including Tabik, a tribute to late Malaysian artists. The gallery is open 09:00-17:00 every day, and admission is free. Getting a taxi is probably the easiest option, although RapidKL bus B103 does run from Bukit Bintang to Titiwangsa, via KLCC.
Set in an even more obscure location is MAP @ Publika, a great new space to showcase contemporary art. It particularly merits a visit until June 18, when it is hosting a full viewing of the 104 works in Art Auction Malaysia 2011. The quality and variety of the art coming under the hammer is truly impressive.
The exhibition features works by some of Malaysia's most accomplished artists, including Latiff Mohidin, Ibrahim Hussein, Cheong Soo Pieng, and Abdullah Ariff. It's open every day, 11:00-19:00, and admission is free. A taxi is the only feasible way to get to Publika.
On a much smaller scale, although still interesting in their own right, are two free photographic exhibitions, both sponsored by foreign cultural organisations. The Metaphorical Garden, showing at KL Gallery (at KL Library), is an exploration of what the garden means in the modern city by 14 local photographers. The show, which is sponsored by the Goethe Institut, runs until June 26 (14:00-18:45, Mon; 10:00-18:45, Tues-Fri; 10:00-17:00 Sat and Sun).
Meanwhile, the Alliance Francaise is showcasing Blue Boy Mansion, an exhibition of photos by Raphael Fournier until June 21 (09:00-17:00, Mon and Sat; 09:00-18:30, Tues-Fri.). The French photographer's work focuses on residents of the Blue Boy Mansion in Bukit Bintang, the city's first residential building more than four storeys high.
KL also has an incredible array of private art galleries. Among the best are the Annexe Gallery and the Art House Gallery, in the Central Market Annexe; the Wei-Ling Gallery, in a beautifully converted shophouse in Brickfields; and Purplehouz Fine Arts on Jaling Gasing in Petaling Jaya, a street which has become somewhat of a hub of artistic activity. Clearly these places exist to sell art, but they all welcome casual browsing.
National Art Gallery
2 Jalan Temerloh, off Jalan Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur
MAP @ Publika
Level G2-1, Block A5, Dutamas, 1 Jalan Dutamas 1, off Jalan Duta
KL Gallery (KL Library)
1 Jalan Raja, Kuala Lumpur
AFKL Gallery (Alliance Francaise)
15 Lorong Gurney, Kuala Lumpur
The Annexe Gallery
1st and 2nd Floor, Central Market Annexe, 10 Jalan Hang Kasturi, Kuala Lumpur
Art House Gallery
Lot 2.01-2.02, 1st Floor, Central Market Annexe, 10 Jalan Hang Kasturi, Kuala Lumpur
Wei-Ling Gallery
8 Jalan Scott, Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur
Purplehouz Fine Arts
94 Jalan Gasing, Petaling Jaya, Selangor
More still
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3 Responses to "Where to see contemporary art in Kuala Lumpur" ...
# Duncanon 03 Jun 2011 at 3:25 pm
Definitely some places I need to pay a visit to next time I'm in KL… This was also an interesting read for me in terms of comparing it with the contemporary art scene in Guangzhou, which is just starting to find its feet – but again doesn't seem to do a particularly good job of letting people know what's happening.
# Malaysia Contemporary Art Tourism Festival 2011 | Travelfish on Kuala Lumpuron 21 Jul 2011 at 12:31 pm
[…] until very recently, the idea of tourists coming to Kuala Lumpur specifically to see or buy Malaysian contemporary art would have been virtually unheard of. But a thriving independent gallery sector, together with the […]
Hi found your artilce on Contemporary Art in Malaysia interesting! Just to share with you that ArtMalaysia an Art Event Organizer is promoting Malaysia Art Fairs, Langkawi Art Biennale 2014 which is part of our Ministry of Tourism to promote Vist Malaysia Year 2014 through Art Tourism. Perhaps you can share this on your Travel site! Thanks!


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- Hotel Details
- Member Reviews
- Photos
Ramada Solihull Hotel Birmingham
4 StarsThe Square Solihull Birmingham B91 3RF
The Ramada Solihull Hotel is located in the suburb of Solihull in Birmingham, which is Britain's second largest city.
Each of the 145 hotel rooms are luxurious and well facilitated to make sure you have a pleasant stay.
Enjoy a relaxing meal while overlooking one of the world's oldest bowling greens at the in-house restaurant which serves contemporary bistro food in stylish surroundings. Afterwards, enjoy a drink in the friendly surroundings of the bar.
The on-site conference centre comprises 15 flexible rooms suitable for a discreet boardroom meeting or an event for up to 200 guests. You can visit various local attractions like Warwick Castle, Stratford upon Avon and Shakespeare country that are all close by.
Hotel Facilities
- Bar / Lounge
- Parking Facilities
- Conference Facilities
- Restaurant
- Disabled Facilities
- Room Service
Room Facilities
- Cable / Satellite TV
- Tea and Coffee Making Facilities
- Ensuite / Private Bathroom
- Telephone
- Hairdryer
Ramada Solihull Hotel Birmingham Guest Reviews (3)
Nice hotel in excellent town centre location. Has it's own car park but beware, they charge for parking and it's not cheap.
Craig Osborne wrote on August 8, 2010
Nothing special but nothing to complain about either.
Anonymous wrote on March 30, 2007
Although our stay was short, we were very impressed and would not hesitate to stay again or recommend it to others.
Steve Taylor wrote on June 27, 2006
Other Recommended Hotels
Hilton Birmingham Metropole hotel | 4 Stars |
Crowne Plaza Hotel Birmingham City Centre | 4 Stars |
Novotel Birmingham Centre Hotel | 4 Stars |
Hilton Garden Inn Birmingham Brindleyplace | 4 Stars |
Radisson Blu Hotel Birmingham | 4.5 Stars |
Copthorne Hotel Merry Hill | 4 Stars |
Jurys Inn Birmingham | 4 Stars |
Thistle Hotel Birmingham City | 4 Stars |
Copthorne Hotel Birmingham | 4 Stars |
Find similar hotels as Ramada Solihull Hotel Birmingham in Birmingham
4 Star Hotels in Birmingham |
Birmingham Hotels with Parking |
Birmingham Hotels with Restaurant / Café |
Birmingham Hotels with Conference Room |
Luxury Accommodation in Birmingham |
Overall Guest Rating
Ramada Solihull Hotel Birmingham Guest Reviews
4 out of 5
Nice hotel in excellent town centre location. Has it's own car park but beware, they charge for parking and it's not cheap. Review by: Craig OsborneDate stayed August 8, 2010 |
3.2 out of 5
Nothing special but nothing to complain about either. Review by: AnonymousDate stayed March 30, 2007 |
4.8 out of 5
Although our stay was short, we were very impressed and would not hesitate to stay again or recommend it to others. Review by: Steve TaylorDate stayed June 27, 2006 |

subset: commoncrawl


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Updated August 8th, 2012 - The Los Angeles Community College District is mailing new Student Identification numbers to replace existing ID numbers. (See the sample immediately below.) The new location to take your student id photo is in E1-102, Sherriff's Substation (323) 415-5047.
New federal legislation which goes into effect on January 1, 2007, requires us to give you a new student ID. We cannot use your social security numbers as your student ID. Social security numbers will still be maintained for limited purposes required by state and federal regulations; such as financial aid, research, assessment, and transcripts. The new student ID is a randomly-generated number with the prefix of "88". It will be used to identify students transacting business with the college. Students will not be identified by their social security numbers on rosters and most computer screens.


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I am getting this message on my automated chlorinator system. When I turn off all power to it through the breakers and then turn them on, this error message goes away and I am able to get data from the cell in the Diagnostic menu. This error is different than the "no cell power" error mentioned in these forums. I have checked the circuit board and there are no obvious burnt components or bad solder joints.
Anyone experience this issue before and know what causes it and how to fix it? Many thanks in advance for any tips. Chris Singleton
Follow-Up Postings:
This happened to us a couple of years ago - we have the same one. It wound up being a bad panel which Goldline/Hayward replaced under warranty. |
I was afraid of that. I am a second owner and so the warranty has expired. This is probably going to really cost me. Thanks for replying. Chris Singleton |
- Posted by Chris Singleton(email@example.com) onSun, May 3, 09 at 10:10
Hi Chris. I own the same model Aqua Logic control panel. I hope you have not wasted the money on a new circuit board. I found the fix. Mine started doing the same thing last week, 04/25/09. I searched the internet and found this thread. I also found another thread where a guy troubleshot the problem and solved it. I fixed mine for the cost of a soldering iron and solder ($6.90 at Waldomart). Click here: http://ths.gardenweb.com/forums/load/pools/msg021834138300.html Look for a post by 'Navyet.' I did what he did. I found a bad solder joint on the back of K1. I resoldered that pin on the back of the board, and the problem was fixed. I replaced the 20 amp fuse with a 10 amp but it blew the fuse within a day. I am going to try a 15 amp fuse to see if that will last. Good Luck. Chris Singleton |
I was having the "No Cell Power" problem as well. Navyet saved me lots of $$$. His instructions worked like a charm. I posted a walk-through with pictures of the repair at www.nocellpower.com. If you have better pictures or instructions let me know and I will post them. |
Here is a link that might be useful: No Cell Power Repair Guide
- Posted by lb10_texas (My Page) on Fri, May 22, 09 at 15:49
WOW! I'd throw a big 'ol party and invite ALL of you just to celebrate this "fix"! Navyet...where do you live so I can buy you a beverage of choice?! Early Fall of '08...I get this "No Cell Power" error on my Goldline/Aqualogic panel. (If you have read down this far, just "ditto" all of the above.) My warranty had expired just 2 months prior as well. I had been chlorinating my pool by hand (nasty chlorine pucks), and was trying to figure out how to come up with the $800 my pool service people wanted to "fix and replace" the cell panel. (And for a single mom with two kids...that wasn't going to be an easy fix for me.) I started thinking...SURELY the Internet must have SOMETHING for me to reference to either fix this issue, or at the very least, purchase the panel at reduced cost. And voila! Here it is!!! Instructions worked PERFECTLY! (And thank you for the pictures Navyet. They were very helpful!) This "fix" saved me over $800 in repair costs, not to mention a lot of extra summer maintenance. I wish I had found this earlier as I've been stressing on it for MONTHS! I also have to wonder...how many (not so reputable) service companies know of this issue, "fix" the existing panel and replace, but still charge a full price panel to the customer - who would NEVER KNOW the difference? So, friendly reminder to always ask for your original part when replacing equipment. Have a happy and safe summer! Laura Weiss |
How do you check the fuse? |
You have to remove the dead front cover, you will see one, then you have to pull the black controller straight out to get to the other one. They are just automotive type fuses. Best to turn power off to the whole panel before you do this. |
I keep getting this message and need to know how to check the system to correct the problem. |
- Posted by brianboggus (My Page) on Wed, Mar 20, 13 at 14:37
Got the dreaded "No Power Cell 2" message (yes, it says "2" as well, vice NO Power Cell". Had Pinch a Penny check my under warranty T-CELL-15 - said it passed. Looked at several forums and found this one. Checked my fuses, appear ok - not broken/blown. Wish that was the case however. Notice Amazon sells a PCB board for 350 or so. Before ordering and doing this myself, I noticed a link for navyvet about the circular "fuse" for lack on a better term, specifically the Digi key pn# 570-1062-ND. Will need to take my board off to see if I can find burn marks, then try my hand at soldering (or call a friend). Anyone successful with the soldering, then have issues later on? Don't want to spend money on a new Circuit Board if I can prevent it, but don't really want to repeat the soldering work constantly. Any feedback is appreciated. I'm a newbie at the forum, so if the question has been asked, shoot me the link. Also, anyone else have issues going to www.nopowercell.com? sees down for me. Thank you for your time in advance fellow forum members and DIY repair techs. |
- Posted by reneepetrone (My Page) on Sat, Jun 1, 13 at 8:58
Hi! I need help with the same crappy problem ....I cannot find the link with the directions. Can anyone help me with this? So aggravating!!!!! Renee |
Hey Renee....go to this link http://www.nocellpower.com/ its pretty nice video and explanation on how to fix it... |
- Posted by reneepetrone (My Page) on Mon, Jun 3, 13 at 23:57
Thanks :) it really helped. We got the unit running. Found the burned connection and fixed it. Now I seem to notice I keep needing to reset the day... Also the pool is not coming on on the time set or shutting off. What's causing this ? Anyone know what I should do? Thanks |
- Posted by mmccrimmon1 (My Page) on Thu, Jul 25, 13 at 16:10
All I can say is "thank you" for the tip. Solder job finished, cell power restored... Thanks again! |
For those of you that don't think it is burned, look again. Mine had a brown discoloration, that's all. Heat the exact same post as described with your soldering iron and some good flux paste. Scrape carefully around the post until copper is exposed and use some more paste. Then heat the post and solder. It's a miracle I'm tellin ya.......... |
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The Global Intelligence Files,
files released so far...
Index pages
by Date of Document
Our Partners
Al Akhbar - Lebanon
Al Masry Al Youm - Egypt
Asia Sentinel - Hong Kong
Bivol - Bulgaria
Carta Capital - Brazil
CIPER - Chile
Dawn Media - Pakistan
L'Espresso - Italy
La Repubblica - Italy
La Jornada - Mexico
La Nacion - Costa Rica
Malaysia Today - Malaysia
McClatchy - United States
Nawaat - Tunisia
NDR/ARD - Germany
Owni - France
Pagina 12 - Argentina
Philip Dorling - Fairfax media contributor - Australia
Plaza Publica - Guatemala
Publica - Brazil
Publico.es - Spain
Rolling Stone - United States
Russian Reporter - Russia
Ta Nea - Greece
Taraf - Turkey
The Hindu - India
The Yes Men - Bhopal Activists
Sunday Star-Times - New Zealand
Community resources
courage is contagious
The Global Intelligence Files
On Monday February 27th, 2012, WikiLeaks began publishing The Global Intelligence Files, over five million e-mails from the Texas headquartered "global intelligence" company Stratfor. The e-mails date between July 2004 and late December 2011. They reveal the inner workings of a company that fronts as an intelligence publisher, but provides confidential intelligence services to large corporations, such as Bhopal's Dow Chemical Co., Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon and government agencies, including the US Department of Homeland Security, the US Marines and the US Defence Intelligence Agency. The emails show Stratfor's web of informers, pay-off structure, payment laundering techniques and psychological methods.
Re: [OS] GREECE/ECON - Goldman Sachs, Greece Didn't Disclose Swap, Investors 'Fooled'
Released on 2012-10-19 08:00 GMT
Email-ID | 1106075 |
Date | 2010-02-17 12:18:43 |
From | email@example.com |
To | firstname.lastname@example.com |
List-Name | firstname.lastname@example.com |
were knowingly hiding risk, and therefore knew or had reason to know that
the bond disclosure documents were misleading,a** said Thomas Hazen, a law
professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. a**But that
would be a tough hill to climb, in terms of burden of proof. Therea**d
have to be some sort of smoking-gun memo.a**
This issue seems overblown to me. GS helped Greece hide around 1.2 billion
euro of its deficit. Is that really a figure that would make or break the
----- Original Message -----
From: "Marko Papic" <email@example.com>
To: "os" <firstname.lastname@example.com>
Sent: Wednesday, February 17, 2010 5:15:38 AM GMT -06:00 US/Canada Central
Subject: [OS] GREECE/ECON - Goldman Sachs, Greece Didna**t Disclose Swap,
Investors a**Fooleda**
Goldman Sachs, Greece Didna**t Disclose Swap, Investors a**Fooleda**
Share Business ExchangeTwitterFacebook| Email | Print | A A A
By Elisa Martinuzzi
Feb. 17 (Bloomberg) -- Goldman Sachs Group Inc. managed $15 billion of
bond sales for Greece after arranging a currency swap that allowed the
government to hide the extent of its deficit.
No mention was made of the swap in sales documents for the securities in
at least six of the 10 sales the bank arranged for Greece since the
transaction, according to a review of the prospectuses by Bloomberg. The
New York-based firm helped Greece raise $1 billion of off-balance-sheet
funding in 2002 through the swap, which European Union regulators said
they knew nothing about until recent days.
Failing to disclose the swap may have allowed Goldman, a co-lead manager
on many of the sales, other underwriters and Greece to get a better price
for the securities, said Bill Blain, co-head of fixed income at Matrix
Corporate Capital LLP, a London-based broker and fund manager.
a**The price of bonds should reflect the reality of Greecea**s
finances,a** Blain said. a**If a bank was selling them to investors on the
basis of publicly available information, and they were aware that
information was incorrect, then investors have been fooled.a**
Michael DuVally, a spokesman at Goldman Sachs in New York, declined to
Legal a**At the Timea**
Goldman Sachs, Wall Streeta**s most profitable securities firm, is being
criticized by European politicians including Germanya**s ruling Christian
Democrats, who have questioned whether the firm helped Greece hide its
deficit to comply with the currencya**s membership criteria. Greece is
also being faulted by fellow euro-region countries for failing to disclose
the swaps to EU regulators.
The swaps used by Greece to manage debt were a**at the time legal,a**
Greek Finance Minister George Papaconstantinou said on Feb. 15. The
government doesna**t use the swaps now, he said.
Eurostat, the EUa**s statistics office, this week ordered Greece to hand
over information on the swaps transactions by the end of this week in an
investigation that may extend to other EU countries.
Goldman Sachs earned about 735 million euros ($1 billion) underwriting
Greek government bonds since 2002, data compiled by Bloomberg show.
Goldman Sachs underwrote 10 bond sales. Prospectuses for six of them,
obtained by Bloomberg, contain no mention of the swaps. The other four
couldna**t be obtained.
a**Fear the Worsta**
The yield on Greek 10-year government bonds jumped to as much as 7.2
percent on Jan. 28 amid the worst crisis in the euroa**s 11-year history.
The premium, or spread, investors demand to hold Greek 10-year notes
instead of German bunds, Europea**s benchmark government securities,
widened yesterday by 18 basis points to 323 basis points.
The spread reached 396 basis points last month, the most since the year
before the euroa**s debut in 1999, compared with an average of 57 basis
points in the past decade. A basis point is 0.01 percentage point.
a**When people start to fear that the numbers arena**t accurate, they fear
the worst,a** said Simon Johnson, a former International Monetary Fund
chief economist who is now a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of
Technologya**s Sloan School of Management in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
No a**Smoking Guna**
Goldman could face legal liability a**if it could be established that they
were knowingly hiding risk, and therefore knew or had reason to know that
the bond disclosure documents were misleading,a** said Thomas Hazen, a law
professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. a**But that
would be a tough hill to climb, in terms of burden of proof. Therea**d
have to be some sort of smoking-gun memo.a**
The swap enabled Greece to improve its budget and deficit and meet a
target needed to remain within the regiona**s single currency. Knowledge
of their existence may have changed investorsa** perception of the risk
associated with Greece, and the price they may have been willing to pay
for the countrya**s securities.
a**From what we know, this is an egregious example of a conflict of
interesta** for Goldman Sachs, MITa**s Johnson said. a**Even if the deal
had been authorized, it doesna**t let them off the hook.a**
A Greek government inquiry this month identified a series of swaps
agreements with securities firms that allowed the country to hide its
mounting deficit. Greece used the swaps to defer interest payments,
causing a**long-term damagea** to the Greek state, according to the Feb. 1
document, commissioned by the Finance Ministry.
Cross-Currency Swap
European Union officials said this week they only recently became aware of
the transaction with Goldman. The swaps dona**t necessarily break EU
rules, European Commission spokesman Amadeu Altafaj told reporters in
Brussels on Feb. 15.
The transaction with Goldman consisted of a cross-currency swap of about
$10 billion of debt issued by Greece in dollars and yen, according to
Christoforos Sardelis, head of Greecea**s Public Debt Management Agency at
the time.
That was swapped into euros using a historical exchange rate, a mechanism
that implied a reduction in debt and generated about $1 billion in an
up-front payment from Goldman to Greece, Sardelis said. He declined to
give specifics on how the swap affected the countrya**s deficit or debt.
European politicians such as Luxembourg Treasury Minister Jean-Claude
Juncker this week criticized Goldman Sachs for arranging the Greek swap
and are pressing the firm and Greece for more disclosure. Chancellor
Angela Merkela**s Christian Democrats aim to push for new rules that will
force euro-region nations and banks to disclose bond swaps that have an
impact on public finances, financial affairs spokesman Michael Meister
a**Investment banks are guilty of being part of a wider collusion that
fudged the numbers to make the euro look like a working currency union,a**
said Matrixa**s Blain. a**The bottom line is foreign exchange and bond
investors bought something sellers knew not to be the case.a**
To contact the reporter on this story: Elisa Martinuzzi in Milan at


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Entering the Chute
When you run conferences for a living, you get used to a very predictable pattern -- one that revolves around the logistical build-up to a show (and the following let-down post-show). At about four weeks out from a show, you "enter the chute." "Entering the chute" describes the feeling your life takes on for that four weeks. Namely, like this massive onrush of details is rushing at you, you're powerless to stop it, and the only thing you can do is just work night and day until the show arrives.
Now, attendees and sponsors don't need to concern themselves with "the chute" -- hell, most of the time they don't even see it or know about it. But being in the chute does mean a couple of things, logistically, for those attending Gluecon:
1. I will lock the agenda this week. It's close now, but I still have to move a few sessions around and make some adjustments. Once I do that and lock the last few sessions, we'll be finalized and going to "print." If you're undecided about coming to Gluecon, please do take a look at the agenda. You'll find it devoid of sales pitches, full of technical goodness, and built to completely overwhelm your ability to take it all in. I'll stack it up against any agenda anywhere on the topics of cloud/big data/mobile/APIs.
2. Grab your hotel room. The hotel extended the discount cut-off for us until this Friday, but you need to get your room QUICKLY. The hotel (not our block, the entire hotel) is filling up fast, and you really don't want to stay anywhere else (imagine being in the space where every where you go, you find a gluecon attendee).
3. Get registered. If you don't come, you'll find yourself wondering why - during the week of gluecon -- all of the amazing stuff is happening without you. Don't take my word for it, see what other people say. Your registration includes danishes and coffee in the morning, morning and afternoon breaks, lunch, an open bar reception with appetizers, and the most amazing group of developers you'll find *anywhere*.
4. Stand-by for more info on the Hackathon. When you register for Gluecon, you'll be asked if you're attending the hackathon. Answer "yes" and you'll be on the pre-show mailing list for hackathon participants. In the next few weeks, I'll be sending out logistics, code repositories, documentation, hack ideas, the list of prizes you can win, meetup times and places for pre-hackathon get togethers -- all KINDS of good stuff. So, register, say "yes," and come build something.
5. Don't forget about CloudCamp. As you're planning your flights in, time on-site, etc -- do NOT forget about CloudCamp (and the Twilio workshop) which is happening the day before Gluecon.
We've entered the chute. I'll see you guys on the other side. In the meantime, I hope you'll choose to join us at Gluecon.


text:
The 10 Most Entertaining Fictional Critics
Those dependably snooty villains. And, occasionally, heroes.
on July 2, 2014Movie critics took out their knives and sliced up Transformers: Age of Extinction last week, leaving the film with a dismal 17-percent approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. (Despite the largest opening-weekend box office return of the year and an audience-granted "A-" CinemaScore.) Yet every once in a while, the movies strike back. Given the feelings they sometimes hurt with their less-than-positive reviews, critics are frequently turned into targets of mockery and censure by the movies, as well as TV shows, plays, books, or other art forms open to scrutiny (pretty much all of them). Though often imagined as villains defined by their self-absorption, pretentiousness, and secret jealousy of those whom they cover, critics have also been portrayed as one-liner-slinging clowns, egomaniacal buffoons, and in at least one animated example noble spokesmen for the value of informed analysis. In honor of Life Itself, the new documentary about Roger Ebert, perhaps the world's most well-known critic, we present our choices for the ten greatest fictional critics, be they scoundrels or otherwise.
Jay Sherman, The Critic
The Critic gave hilarious voice to Jon Lovitz's Jay Sherman, an absurdly pompous, mean-spirited, snobbish movie critic whose TV show Coming Attractions and catchphrase "It Stinks!" made him an obvious riff on both Roger Ebert and his partner Gene Siskel. Though its movie parodies are now a bit out of date, the short-lived series, full of rat-a-tat-tat references and allusions to mainstream and classic cinema, remains a loving spoof of the film critic profession.
Addison DeWitt, All About Eve
A far less affectionate portrait of criticism came via 1950's All About Eve. Joseph L. Mankiewicz's sterling drama about the treacherous stage world is narrated by George Sanders's Addison DeWitt, a witty theater critic whose devious machinations (and use of his own column to elevate or destroy those he deems worthy) solidified a public conception of the critic as a power-playing schemer.
Men on Film, In Living Color
On the other side of the spectrum are Blaine Edwards (Damon Wayans) and Antoine Merriweather (David Alan Grier), the hosts of the "Men on..." sketches featured on the 1990s TV hit In Living Color. A flamboyantly gay pair whose analysis focused on works' homosexual content, their tag-team slams on movies, art, and pop culture were punctuated with hilarious "Snaps Up" grades and their unforgettable negative-appraisal catchphrase, "Hated It!"
Statler and Waldorf, The Muppet Show
With all due respect to Kermit, Ms. Piggy, and Fozzie, the funniest Muppets characters have always been Statler and Waldorf, the old, cranky upper-balcony critics whose role was simply to mock their fellow puppet comrades. Hecklers extraordinaire, they never met a pun they didn't love, or a Muppet performance they didn't think was ridicule-worthy.


text:
The Chesapeake Health District is dedicated to preventing illness, promoting healthy lifestyles and protecting the environment for all the citizens of Chesapeake.
For reporting a public health emergency, such as a reportable disease or environmental public health hazard, after normal business hours, on holidays or weekends, please contact police dispatch at (757) 382-6161.
Let us know how we are doing! Take an anonymous Customer Service Survey to rate the recent services you received from us. We are always looking to improve our processes and appreciate your feedback! |
Last week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced the first confirmed case of Ebola diagnosed in the United States in a person who traveled to West Africa. Since then, there has been a significant amount of media interest and public inquiry about the possibility of an Ebola epidemic in the U.S and even in Hampton Roads.
There's all the difference in the world between the Hampton Roads and parts of West Africa where Ebola is spreading. The U.S. and Chesapeake are prepared, and have strong health care systems and public health professionals who will make sure this case does not threaten our community. As CDC Director has said, "I have no doubt that we will control this case of Ebola, so that it does not spread widely in this country."
Although Ebola is a highly destructive disease, it is not a highly contagious disease.
Here are the facts you should know about Ebola:
What is Ebola? Ebola virus is the cause of a viral hemorrhagic fever disease. Symptoms include: fever, headache, joint and muscle aches, weakness, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain, lack of appetite, and abnormal bleeding. Symptoms may appear anywhere from 2 to 21 days after exposure to Ebola virus though 8-10 days is most common.
How is Ebola transmitted? Ebola is transmitted through direct contact with the blood or bodily fluids of an infected symptomatic person or though exposure to objects (such as needles) that have been contaminated with infected secretions.
Can Ebola be transmitted through the air? No. Ebola is not a respiratory disease like the flu, so it is not transmitted through the air.
Can I get Ebola from contaminated food or water? No. Ebola is not transmitted through food in the United States. It is not transmitted through water.
Can I get Ebola from a person who is infected but doesn't have any symptoms? No. Individuals who are not symptomatic are not contagious. In order for the virus to be transmitted, an individual would have to have direct contact with an individual who is experiencing symptoms or has died of the disease.
For more information about Ebola visit:
Ebola Frequently Asked Questions
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Ebola Virus Disease
Ebola Information for Healthcare Providers and Facilities
For questions about Ebola you can call our 24/7 hotline at (877)275-8343


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43 Articles and 2 related Products found for AMG Systems
AMG delivers toll management transmission solution on Indian highway
Editor / Provider: AMG | Updated: 9/17/2014 | Article type: Security 50
AMG, the British manufacturer of CCTV transmission solutions and sophisticated 5 Megapixel cameras, has completed a new sophisticated toll management transmission solution on Solapur Highway, for ITNL in India. ITNL is using the solution to monitor two Toll Plazas with a total of 20 Lanes with 24 Booths – 4 of which have reversible lanes. The project covers a road stretch of 105 kilometres, with 49 kilometres between the Toll Plazas.
According to ITNL, the new system encompasses 132 cameras of which 126 are fixed cameras and 6 are PTZs. Other hardware integrated into the solution includes Lane Controllers, AVC Controllers, and RFID Readers. The system is operated on an Ethernet backbone, with 35 unmanaged AMG switches, and incorporates vehicle detection and enforcement solutions along with access control equipment.
A Toll Plaza typically lies in an environment where adverse conditions are present. This was a decisive factor in ITNL's decision to select the AMG Ethernet switches for the new system. The ruggedness and small form factor, as well as the capability to perform well in adverse climate conditions with extreme heat and dust means that the AMG switches provides significant advantage over other alternatives.
According to ITNL, another advantage is that the AMG transmission solution can interface with equipment from any given third party manufacturer. This facilitates the integration of surveillance and monitoring equipment with the Toll Management Solution. ITNL also commented on the support given by AMG during pre-sales, post-sales and subsequent technical support, deeming the service as 'excellent'.
Sara Bullock, International Sales Director at AMG Systems, says, "AMG has supplied a large number of transmission solutions for well over 1, 000 km of highways traffic management solutions in India. We're extremely pleased that ITNL decided to use our switches for this new project on the Pune - Solapur Highway."
Maldives airport upgrades to Ethernet and panoramic tech
Editor / Provider: Amg Systems | Updated: 6/20/2013 | Article type: Infrastructure
The Gan International Airport in Maldives has recently deployed an IP-based video surveillance system consisting of Amg Systems panoramic 360 degree cameras on an Ethernet transmission platform and Wavestore VMS to monitor its executive terminal lounge areas. The Gan International Airport is owned and managed by Addu International Airport.
"Amg has worked with Gan International Airport for more than eight years," said Leona Hayes, Business Development Manager for Overseas Markets at Amg Group. Being early adopters of analog video surveillance technology, authorities decided to move into IP some time ago to implement an Amg Ethernet technology backbone transmission structure. The camera's electronic-PTZ allows each user to control the camera without interfering with other users, and can be positioned for simultaneous view from eight different locations using multiple-dewarped streams generated from the camera. De-Warping is provided within the camera, which reduces the load on the NVR system. Amg's dewarping SDK provides electronic PTZ during user playback on the VMS. The PTZ streams can be pre-positioned to point to four different directions, such as north, east, south or west or controlled like multiple PTZ domes. Another feature is the cameras have no moving parts, which reduces maintenance costs from wear and tear.
"We have recently adopted a proactive approach to more intelligent surveillance solutions," said Abdul Mujahid, Senior Technician also acting as Head of Technical Services at Addu International Airport. " At Gan Airport, we wanted a cutting edge solution, and PanoCam360 delivers all the features and functionality we need. We're currently integrating the cameras with a Wavestore recording solution."
Synectics management software integrates AMG fisheye cam
Editor / Provider: AMG Systems | Updated: 5/30/2013 | Article type: Security 50
AMG-Panogenics, the British manufacturer of sophisticated Megapixel cameras, has entered a technology partnership with Synectics, and their PanoCam360 fisheye camera is now fully integrated into the Synergy security management system.
Jonathan Squires, Technology Applications Manager of Synectics says, "The PanoCam360 can be recorded by Synectics' recording management system and the image / stream can be viewed in Synectics' security management software, Synergy, in its native, 360 format. The image can also be de-warped, and using Synergy, users can apply a digital zoom on the image."
David Myers, CTO of AMG-Panogenics comments, "PanoCam360 streams 12.5 frames per second and the on-board de-warping reduces the processing requirement back in the control room. Offering up to 14 de-warped video streams/independent camera views simultaneously alongside the full-resolution fish-eye view makes PanoCam360 the most powerful and versatile 360 degree camera range available. The camera is completely developed and manufactured in the UK and works on an open software platform, which makes it very easy to integrate."
Synergy is Synectics' security management solution for multi-vendor environments. One of the main features of Synergy is that it dramatically simplifies the human interface, furnishing operators with a simple, fast and intuitive route to all common system functions. It further features a range of module additions designed with specific application sectors in mind. Synergy therefore addresses the requirement of system operators and managers to provide a practical control and administration solution that can deliver the flexibility of operation - as demanded by today's increasingly complex systems.
Dublin's cycling route considered part of the city's traffic management
Editor / Provider: AMG Systems | Updated: 5/29/2013 | Article type: Infrastructure
The Dublin City Council (DCC) has deployed a multi-fiber optic transmission system from AMG Systems for video surveillance and traffic signal communications on its new cycling route, the Canal Way Cycle Route. The transmission system drop and insert units have been deployed and integrated into the council's traffic management solution. In addition, 15 new cameras have been added along the cycling route connecting Portobello with the Docklands that opened on March 22, 2012. The route is fully integrated into the comprehensive traffic management solution the council is running within Dublin City and surrounding motorways, all monitored from a central control room.
The route is segregated so cyclists do not have to share the same route as pedestrians or motorists, with the exception from Grand Canal Quay and Forbes Streets, which have a very low volume of cars, said Brendan O'Brien, Head of Technical Services (Traffic) at DCC. However, traffic signals can be complicated at junctions, where pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists interact. Special cyclist signals have been introduced at certain junctions. "As well as a main traffic signal (for motor vehicles) we have separate traffic signals for both cyclists and pedestrians," said O'Brien. "Since we have opened the cycling route the number of cyclists has grown 70 percent and so far we have no accident data since opening, i.e. we have no report of any accidents."
"AMG have worked very closely with DCC since 2007, where we won the tender for supplying our fiber optic transmission system for traffic management and control of Dublin City and surrounding motorways," said Sara Bullock, International Sales and Marketing Director of AMG Group. "Since then, new elements of traffic complexity have been added to the solution, such as the Luas tramways and the Samuel Becket moving bridge, which has a comprehensive traffic signal and control solution integrated into the existing solution."
The city council' comprehensive Traffic Management Solution is going to be on show when traffic planners and ITS specialists from all over Europe meet at the 9th ITS European Conference which takes place in Dublin June 4-7 this year.
Beware of fishy details
Editor / Provider: Tevin Wang, a&s International | Updated: 5/17/2013 | Article type: Tech Corner
Fisheye cameras provide views from all angles, but must be set up properly to be effective. This feature takes a closer look at practical expectations and tips.
Fisheye cameras are all about seeing everything in a scene more efficiently and effectively than with multiple cameras. They are also more economical as they reduce licensing costs by requiring only one license instead of multiple camera licenses to cover the same area. By expanding horizontally, fisheye cameras allow security managers to cover an entire scene in a logical way without gaps or missing areas of coverage. Other benefits include: ● A huge field-of-view, hence total coverage with no blind spots ● Unbroken surveillance on a single camera; no camera switching required ● Massively reduced camera counts when covering large areas ● PTZ or ePTZ around the scene during playback
However, fisheye cameras are not a cure-all for replacing fixed or PTZ cameras in every scenario, as the loss of detail plus pixel density drops are still their Achilles' heel. "Depending on camera mounting height and distance from the subject, what the user may not get from the 360 camera could be facial-recognition shots or car license plates," said David Myers, CTO at AMG Systems. "In these cases, the use of an additional fixed camera may be required, usually at an entrance or exit."
Tips As fisheye cameras change the perspectives of security personnel who actually "see" the video, installers should pay closer attention when deploying them. First, installers must be conscious of where the camera is being mounted on and of the type of material of the wall or ceiling. As certain fisheye cameras are designed to blend into the decor and need to be mounted on harder ceiling material like drywall or sheetrock, plenum space where air circulation is used might not be a good option. "Aesthetics plays an important role in many installations, especially when mounted at eye level or just above eye level in a wall," said Greg Alcorn, Global Sales Director for Oncam Grandeye.
Since a fisheye camera covers a wide area in all directions, "ceiling or mounting height is important, and cameras should be positioned strategically to provide the best coverage of the area," Myers said. Additionally, how the camera is going to be powered (with PoE) and how it would connect to the management network should be given some thought.
Claire Huang, Product Marketing Specialist at Dynacolor, agreed. "Due to resolution drops around the edges, users should make areas of interest the center of the image. Thus, the height and location should be carefully considered."
Another consideration is light variations in a given scene. "Very bright lights often blow out a scene or create lots of shadows, and many 360-degree cameras cannot pick up information because the image is either too dark or too bright," Alcorn said. The brightest and darkest areas will be a challenge for the camera to resolve. "Installers should consider the entire scene when placing a camera — how much light will be visible and what in your scene is important to see for total situational awareness."
When installed under a bright environment with lamps of low frequencies, there might be flickering as well, Huang added.
Security professionals should understand that fisheye cameras are designed to add value, rather than perform as a Swiss-army-knife solution for surveillance. Fixed or PTZ cameras might still be required to ensure fisheye cameras provide a complete overview of the scene and a conclusive evidence trail for devising proper business or security measures.
For more coverage on security products, please check out asmag.com.
Do more with less
Editor / Provider: By Tevin Wang, a&s International | Updated: 5/14/2013 | Article type: Tech Corner
Fisheye cameras have been around for years, but real-life adoption seems to be limited, due to a limited number of offerings and VMS integrations. Things are changing for the better, as more camera manufacturers and management software providers pay more attention to the optics and user benefits. a&s looks into the latest developments.
Panoramic and hemispheric lenses have been used by photographers for decades. Nowadays, one can literally shoot images with panoramic or fisheye effects with smartphones. Still, what is common in the consumer electronics industry may be exotic in security.
The panoramic camera offers both the 180-degree and 360-degree panoramic view using a single fisheye lens or several normal lenses. "For a panoramic camera using several lenses, the panoramic image is produced by stitching the images shot by each of the lenses," said Osborne Fang, Marketing Manager at Brickcom. "On the other hand, the fisheye camera provides the panoramic image with a single lens. Due to the extremely wide viewing angle of the fisheye lens, the image is distorted and dewarping technology is needed to turn the image into a normal one, readable to the human eye. Hence, dewarping is one of the keys to the final image quality of the fisheye camera."
Petra Bennermark, Product Manager at Axis Communications, added, "A panoramic camera refers to either a camera that is mounted on a wall and gives a 180-degree view from the wall or a ceiling-mounted camera that gives a 360-degree view of the area below the ceiling. A camera with a 180-degree fisheye lens constitutes one technical solution to such a camera. So I would say that a fisheye camera is a subset of panoramic cameras."
One way to envision a 180-degree view is to imagine standing in the center of an alley with your back against a wall. "Cameras mounted where your head is would be able to see the whole alley including both ends and the wall that your head is against," said Ellen Cargill, Director of Product Development for Scallop Imaging (a division of Tenebraex).
Pluses & Trade-Offs It is important that user s understand what they get and what they do not get from fisheye cameras. Fixed cameras, however mounted, cover narrow fields of view and multiple cameras are required to give adequate coverage of wide areas. PTZ cameras, on the other hand, require manual control and are therefore most often pointing to the wrong place at the wrong time. "A fisheye camera mounted on a wall or on the ceiling in the center of a room or area can cover a vast area with no blind spots, no moving parts, and no manual control required," said David Myers, CTO at AMG Systems. "While not totally replacing fixed and PTZ cameras, fisheye cameras provide total coverage and reduce both the number of cameras required and the infrastructure required. The ability to follow a subject on a single camera is also of great benefit in forensic analysis"
Some trade-offs still exist for fisheye cameras. As a fisheye camera uses a specialized lens that distorts the image of a scene to fit it into a single view, circular fisheye images do not use all the pixels on an image sensor. Also, image magnification diminishes as the subject moves toward the edges of the scene despite that megapixel image sensors and digital image processing have improved fisheye performance on the edges of the field of view.
Distortion & Pixel Check Fisheye lenses project a circular footprint and have constant or linear distortion from the center to the edge. Objects closer to the camera appear bigger, while they reduce rapidly in size as the distance from the camera increases. In other words, users could have an unavoidable drop-off in image quality at the edges. These issues might be "magnified" after dewarping. It is similar to the difference between a globe and a map of the world when attempting to provide a two-dimensional representation of the three-dimensional world. Both poles are squished, like oversized representations of Antarctica and Greenland on some maps. The same goes for a fisheye lens: the farther an object is from the center of an image, the more distorted it becomes.
Image distortions and pixel drops of fisheye cameras are hard to read from technical specs. The best way is to actually test the cameras and check the details. "When comparing, make sure that you compare 'apples to apples' — that is, the same part of the scene, the same field of view, same distance and direction angle from the camera," Bennermark said.
There is a lot of confusion when it comes to representing the true resolution of fisheye cameras as they, compared to fixed cameras, have a smaller optical image sensor. Greg Alcorn, Director of Global Sales at Oncam Grandeye shared some simple mathematics that can help end users and integrators check exactly what resolution they are getting. "Most manufactures use a 5-megapixel sensor, or 2592 by 1944 pixels, and the image is then cropped to the size of the lens, or a circle within a rectangle. The circle, therefore, has a diameter of 1944 pixels and the following equation is used to calculate the true resolution. The actual resolution equals the area of the circle. [In this case, the actual resolution is 972x972, which is 2.9 megapixels.]"
Dewarping Human eyes are not used to optical distortion and dewarping is created for this purpose. Dewarping can be done on fisheye cameras or on the client application. "The achievable optical resolution of the lens and the achievable resolution of the image sensor play an important role on the image quality of the dewarped image," Fang said. "For example, a high-optical resolution fisheye lens with the 5-megapixel image sensor can provide more detail than the same lens with the 1-megapixel image sensor. Meanwhile, the computation power of the processor determines the time it takes for the dewarping function to process the raw optical image."
In-camera dewarping offers direct dewarped views based on user's need. User can choose the number of dewarped views of the scene and the camera will do the rest. "Dewarping on the camera lets the customer create virtual views or narrow-field windows that create blind spots similar to conventional cameras. The windows may be moved using PTZ commands over the network, and will then have latency similar to what is currently associated with mechanical PTZ cameras," Alcorn said. "[However], dewarping on the camera does not allow the ability to retrospectively view the 360 image, which is one of the biggest advantages of using 360-degree cameras."
Dewarping on the client side, on the other hand, allows for retrospective viewing, which enables the user to go back in time to view the total scene in its original form and then pan, tilt, and/or zoom within the 360-degree image as desired. "An additional advantage to dewarp on the client side is the ability for multiple clients to view the same image with different perspectives concurrently. There is no time slicing required as with traditional PTZ cameras or 360 cameras with dewarping onboard the camera," Alcorn added.
However, Alf Chang, Senior Consultant at a&s held a different opinion. "In-camera dewarping may also allow multiple clients to view the same image with different perspectives. This relates more to NVRs than where the dewarping occurs. Indeed, the mode or numbers of dewarped views can only be set by one user at the front end. These dewarped views and footage are stored at the NVR. Via NVR, it is still feasible for multiple clients to view the same image with different perspectives. "
Dewarping in the camera or on the client side have their pros and cons. When cameras are capable of dewarping themselves, installers or integrators have fewer concerns regarding the loading on the client side because the camera is doing the processing. Dewarping on the client side, on the other hand, offers comparatively more flexible and retrospective viewing. There are many dewarping methods. "Some well-known dewarping methods include stereographic projection, equidistant projection, and cylindrical projection. Each method has its own advantages, and the implementation details of the dewarping methods have to adapt to the optical characteristics of the fisheye lens used," Fang said. "The key is the popularity and compatibility with the VMS."
VMS Interoperability Most fisheye manufacturers require a separate SDK for dewarping and e-PTZ controls. This makes integration to V MS systems challenging. In order to enhance the algorithm to the fullest of fisheye cameras, a VMS with full support is crucial. Limited VMS integration will block immersive fisheye cameras from being used effectively. VMS which support multiple manufacturers or even an established standard are key for broader adoption of fisheye cameras.
Oncam Grandeye is optimistic about the potential of fisheye cameras and increased integration with VMS platforms. "Technology moves forward and image quality gets better. VMS, like everything else, is advancing. We have developed an SDK for multiple platforms that can be integrated into any clientside application. It comes with our patented dewarping technology using OpenGL and 3D modeling techniques to project a texture map of the image onto p-surface (a 3D object, generated by a computer graphic system). This takes advantage of current state-of-theart GPUs (graphic processor units), which reduces the load on the CPU. Performing dewarping on the CPU could use as much as 20 percent of the CPU's performance, based on the size of the image and frame rate," Alcorn said.
Myers agreed. "We provide the software to our VMS partners which allows fast dewarping of the high resolution fisheye live and recorded through their viewing software."
Brickcom is also eager to increase its technology partners. "Our fisheye camera is compatible now with more than 40 VMS solutions thanks to the open ImmerVision 360-degree viewing standard," Fang added.
If cameras are capable of dewarping, VMS interoperability is not a concern. "As Axis does dewarping in the camera, VMS is subscribed to the already dewarped images. These dewarped images can be dynamically controlled to make it a digital PTZ camera. There is no need for VMS applications to deal with dewarping," according to Bennermark.
Future Development Some manufacturers are launching day-night fisheye cameras for 24-hour coverage. Also, they can be deployed outdoors. The goal is to allow fisheye cameras not to be limited to indoor installations but to wider outdoor areas.
For the past few years, the greatest advances in IP-based video surveillance have been in compression and megapixel technology. These technologies bring panoramic and hemispheric cameras up to a new level, and they can be used in more applications than before, said Steve Ma, Executive VP of VIVOTEK. "With today's sensor and lens technologies, manufacturers are able to provide high quality 360-degree cameras. We will bundle fisheye cameras and speed dome cameras as a solution for great perspectives and details, which allows users to simultaneously monitor both an overview and a detailed regional view of any given scene."
State of HD-SDI in 2013
Editor / Provider: a&s International | Updated: 4/11/2013 | Article type: Tech Corner
Real-life HD-SDI deployments have been scarce, due to practical issues such as component options, truly full HD performance (1,080p at 25 to 30 fps per channel) and pricing acceptability; the relatively high costs of 8- and 16-channel packages have limited uptake by the traditional channels. Things are changing for the better in 2013, however, and this feature looks into what the future holds for this common broadcast technology in security.
HD is an unstoppable trend, thanks to advances in consumer electronics. Security surveillance has been bitten by the same bug; once you go for sharper images, you never go back. Previously, the only way to get better-than-analog surveillance footage was through megapixel cameras and NVRs. Not any more. According to IMS Research, HD over coax products (SDI, SLOC, 960H) are forecast to capture around 5 percent of the video surveillance market revenues by 2016; with the overall worldwide projection at US$20.5 billion, that means a slightly over $1-billion business.
Price has been a chief stumbling block. Choices in deliverable HD-SDI DVRs were limited and at a premium, until late 2012. "The average price for 4-channel HD-SDI DVRs has dropped about 30 percent," said Danny Tang, VP of Sales and Marketing at Shany Electronic. "As more manufacturers and chip developers, more models are coming out. We are looking forward to the increased competitiveness this year."
Tony Lin, Manager of EverFocus Electronics, agreed. "We foresee SDI prices coming down to a level on par with high-end traditional analog devices, with a better chance to win over customers looking to upgrade. We believe the improved product availability will hit squarely in the middle of the traditional analog market. This will include any market that hasn't already turned to IP."
Applications That Could Benefit Most of the approached industry contacts found it hard to see large-scale HD-SDI deployments, but some saw unique potential. "Our SDI solution is ideal for recording legal proceedings and can be used across multiple courtrooms simultaneously," said Vanne Lin, Executive VP at iCatch. "Advantages include ease of use, no lag time or frame-rate interruptions, free from bandwidth limitations, stability and reliability, and high image quality."
Keeping existing analog cabling infrastructure intact is another advantage. "For example, there are quite a few historic sites in Europe, and changing all the wiring to Ethernet might be out of the question," Tang said. "We already have some European customers asking for HD-SDI solutions. Japan also shows great potential, due to a large analog installed base. To offer customized solutions and meet local needs, we designed features to include power over coaxial and remote control."
More cost-effective HD-SDI bundles could spark increased deployment in retail. "In the U.S., chips and PIN codes on credit cards never caught on, and they still prefer to sign slips or checks," said Alan Hayes, founder and MD of AMG Systems. "This slows down payment processing. Currently, there are considerations in terms of introducing 'touch panel payment solutions' that the customer simply touches their credit card to a pad. [In this case], there may be a requirement for HD for proof of identity solutions." Dahua Technology targets market segments that require HD but have huge existing coaxial infrastructure, such as banking, gaming and traffic monitoring. "Korea and Japan are leading SDI deployment in the APAC region," said Xuping Zhong, Product Engineer at Dahua Technology. "Growth in other countries is moderate in verticals such as banking, casinos and city surveillance."
Gas stations may also benefit from HD-SDI. "Gas stations mostly install only limited or basic surveillance," said Lin of EverFocus. "We have noted, however, the need for increasing resolution in this sector, especially in self-service areas. Due the fact that gas stations are potentially dangerous environments, we believe that SDI is the perfect solution because it can provide resolution increases over existing coaxial cable."
Advances in Components HD-SDI reference designs are now available from Altera, Ambarella, Hisilicon Technologies, Texas Instruments and Xilinx, possibly making overall solutions more price-competitive. Increasing availability of ISPs also means that integrators and installers may need to pay more attention to different combinations and developments of sensors, FPGAs and reference designs, said Alf Chang, Senior Technical Consultant at a&s.
Design and Installation Considerations The situation for video system designers has improved markedly over the last year with the widespread availability of HDcctv equipment, which makes any installer experienced with regular CCTV equipment already prepared to make the move to HD surveillance, said Todd Rockoff, Executive Director at HDcctv Alliance. "Despite this simplicity, newcomers to HDcctv should be aware of some technical points in interoperability, cable length, storage and integration. The next-generation HDcctv standard is on track for ratification mid-2013, bringing new capabilities and benefits for integrators and installers. The chips soon to be introduced that implement next-generation capabilities of the HDcctv standard promise to further accelerate the migration of security to HD surveillance video."
HD-SDI Enabled Some manufacturers are thinking ahead to offer easy migration or hybrid solutions for installers and end users. For instance, Hi Sharp offers HD-SDI and analog hybrid DVRs so that users can choose the most suitable cameras for different locations.
Shany provides DVRs with 2 channels of SDI and 8 channels of analog, along with embedded management software, to target the SMB market. Tribrid solutions, with IP, are available as well. "We will continue our efforts in easy-to-use remote configuration design and increased transmission distance to cope with the needs of installers," Tang said. "SDI for nonsecurity applications and SDI speed domes are our R&D focus as well."
Webgate (a Daemyung Enterprise company) will focus on integration of HD-SDI DVRs and ONVIF compliance to accommodate diverse user needs. "Since our HD-SDI DVR has network connectivity, video from our HD-SDI cameras can be acquired through a DVR or IP encoder," said Chris Kim, Marketing Manager. "Hybrid products for analog and HD-SDI will lose their merits soon. We are preparing a long-term plan for hybrid products with IP and HD-SDI."
iCatch concentrates on management software and mobile applications. "We are one of the first to develop 16-channel HD-SDI DVRs with real-time record/playback function in Asia," Lin at iCatch said. "Users can fully enjoy the bundled CMS feature. In addition, the DVR also supports Windows/Mac OS and app (iOS/Android) platforms, so users are able to keep an eye on what they care about most, regardless of where they are. Users might not care or know whether their surveillance solutions are IP-based or HD-SDI, but they will care whether the surveillance system can be viewed and managed remotely."
UK retail complex upgrades decade-long security link
Editor / Provider: AMG Systems | Updated: 3/5/2013 | Article type: Commercial Markets
The Oracle, a UK shopping center located in Reading, recently refurbished and upgraded its 13-year-old fiber transmission from AMG Systems. According to Adam Parsonson-Smith, Technical Director of Zada (a local installer), the original AMG transmission solution had passed "the longevity test," and an upgrade would be in order. The mall's video surveillance system currently consists of 188 cameras, with three core optical-fiber rooms (river side car park, north sat room and south sat room) and a central control room. Zada installed a newly designed backbone that enables future installments of HD network cameras at the shopping center's entrances.
The upgrade project was completed in just two days, due to Zada and AMG working closely together and deciding how the upgrade could best be facilitated. AMG was particularly supportive in assisting Zada in finding the best solution, and provided quotations, supplies and answers to technical queries which minimized downtime during the upgrade, Parsonson-Smith remarked. "In fact, we're so happy with AMG's products that we habitually offer our clients five-year business plans, with a maintenance contract which also covers the AMG transmission equipment — as is the case with The Oracle."
"I was part of the AMG team involved with the original implementation of CCTV at The Oracle in 1999," said Alan Hayes, founder and MD of AMG Group. "The fact that Zada asked us to supply the equipment for the refurbishment has given us the opportunity to upgrade the solution to the latest AMG technology, and further futureproof what was a great solution in the first place."
VCA revisited
Editor / Provider: Wavestore | Updated: 1/16/2013 | Article type: Hot Topics
So, the ObjectVideo "patent agreement seeking" rampage seems to have come to an end for now, with Panasonic System Networks being the latest to be added to the global, portfolio-wide patent license wish list (others include Tyco Security Products, Sony, Vivotek, Pelco by Schneider and Bosch Security Systems, for anyone who is keeping score). More solution providers are revisiting the technology side of things this year, with more concrete deployment scenarios and ROI agreement, such as this one from Axis Communications, a similar one from AMG Systems, and the one below from Wavestore.
Recent advances have helped overcome many of the problems previously associated with VCA tools, and 2013 will therefore see more powerful and tangible performance in real-life action, predicted Phil Ewers, Business Development Manager at Wavestore. His extensive experience includes playing a key role in a successful bid to deliver and supply Westfield London Shopping Centre with Europe's largest people-counting solution. Ewers is confident that VCA will be requested more in the list of features when video management systems are being designed.
First, there are a number of manufacturers who have increased the processing power of the DSP chipsets incorporated into their video surveillance cameras, highlighted Ewers. "These cameras, therefore, have the potential to be able to perform all their standard functions, while at the same time being able to efficiently handle analytics software." Second, a tough economic environment is inevitably encouraging end users to demand a higher ROI in a video system solution. Last but not least is the fact that forward thinking video solution providers, such as Wavestore, have incorporated into their VMS the facility for leading technologies, such as video analytics in all its various forms, to work in harmony and interact with each other using a metadata engine. "This enables to offer customers an effective single-source solution."
VCA is proving to be extremely valuable to the retail sector, but there are many opportunities in environments such as sports stadiums, airports, train stations and so on — any area where there is people movement.
People-counting capability deserves to be near or at the top of the list, as it can provide highly valuable data to allow a business to become more efficient, increase sales or just simply make their premises a safe place to visit or work in, Ewers said. "A hot spot identified by the use of analytics could perhaps generate an alert that there is an escalating risk of people being crushed."
ALPR has obvious benefits to those involved in traffic management and parking enforcement, as well as verifying that a driver/vehicle is authorized to enter a restricted area. Biometrics in the form of facial recognition deserves a mention as well, as it can be a very powerful tool to identify specific individuals. "When analyzing what may have been thousands of hours of prerecorded video, facial recognition offers the possibility of matching against what could be a large database of undesirable visitors," Ewers shared. New developments are seeing facial recognition providing invaluable statistics for retailers as to who is checking out a particular product stand, visiting a store or a defined area within a store or shopping complex.
Demystifying HD-SDI Transmission and Storage
Editor / Provider: a&s China | Updated: 7/24/2012 | Article type: Tech Corner
IP-based video surveillance systems have been improving rapidly over the past few years, and there are fairly complete and sophisticated solutions out there, along with numerous product lines to choose from. But it was not always so.
High prices, few selections, lack of options… Sound familiar? HD-SDI is still maturing, just as network cameras began to gain awareness back in 2002.
Analog InheritanceBesides a selected few subcontracted installations in China and Korea, HD-SDI currently does not have any large-scale applications. Why? This is associated with the price of the switching, and storage requirements, said Alan Hayes, founder and MD, AMG Systems. "This can be compared with analogue video where all signals come back to the control room rather than IP systems where storage and switching is distributed.
"There is, however, an advantage to this approach. With HD-SDI DVRs, the structure of the system does not require any change at all. All the user needs is an SDI signal distributor to push the signals to a TV wall or LCD monitor.
Another benefit is that existing infrastructure can potentially be reused. For example, since banks are largely still using coaxial cables, they are in a great position to upgrade from analog to HD-SDI, providing that their cables reach a certain level of quality. This reduces their time and cost of installation, which appeals well to the keepers of cash.
However, existing cables are not guaranteed to work. Since HD-SDI is digital, it does not degrade gracefully like analog does, said Todd Rockoff, Executive Director, HDcctv Alliance. "Once the return loss exceeds the prescribed range, the signal ceases to be transmitted." Ultimately, installers bidding retrofits will need field testers to verify the status of the cables. According to the HDcctv Alliance, the ability to reuse legacy cable depends on the physical properties of that cable and the quality of its terminations. "Length is just one factor; core composition, wire gauge, cable run geometry, the integrity of the insulating layers, and so forth, also affect the result."
Maturing at a Rapid PaceOther enhancements are also being made to increase HD-SDI's feasibility, such as extending its transmission distance, developing specialized displays for HD-SDI, and improving manageability.
Extending Distance While short transmission distance has been a major downside for HD-SDI, improvements in chip technology and the debut of fiber link breaks HD-SDI away from the chains of coax. The current selection of transmission solutions is still limited for integrators and end users, but recent improvements show that HD-SDI is now suitable for many more applications than previously assumed.
Besides increasing bit rates, chips also use lossless compression to extend the distance to 300 m. However, the most common practice is to use fiber optic transceivers, which can use WDM/DWDM/CWDM to utilize different wavelengths of light to extend HD-SDI's reach to 30 km to 70 km, up from the paltry 100 m.
Multiple channels can be put on one fiber, but this will involve using different optical wavelength channels, one for each video channel, using CWDM technology, Hayes said. "CWDM does have a price premium, so it comes out relatively expensive. But from a technical point of view it is perfectly doable.
"Other benefits of the fiber approach are that other signals — Ethernet, data and so on — can be multiplexed onto the same fiber, thus saving materials and installation costs on the infrastructure."
Specialized Displays For the most part, current video surveillance displays use CVBS and VGA interface. When it comes to high definition video, two prominent formats are 720p and 1,080p. The HDTV SMPTE-296M/274M requires that the interface used to be HDMI or DVI and YC.
Most HD display manufacturers directly assume HDMI when it comes to HD-SDI, but in reality BNC is a more apt interface for SDI. Many displays already support HDMI-1080p, and displays with embedded SDI receivers and that support SDI connectors are available as well, albeit choices are currently limited to either small or large displays.
Video Management Not a Problem HD-SDI originally lacked a unified platform for video management, but it is now possible to run the video through an SDI server to convert the signals to IP. The data can then be managed by any NVR or VMS.
In addition, the DVR can also output the video through its network interface into the VMS. The claim that HD-SDI does not have management platform no longer rings true.
For a highway project in Korea that had such a requirement, coaxial cables and fiber optics were used at the front end to transmit the signals to the traffic control center, then converted via HD-RX and convert the signals to BT.1120 and input into a network enabled DVR or HD-SDI video server. The VMS can then collect and manage all the DVRs on the network and control camera PTZ, all via standards.
As little as a few months ago, there were still many that expressed concern over whether matrix switchers could handle HD-SDI signals. Many even assumed that SDI could not be controlled as easy as analog, since SDI is not a composite signal like CVBS. However, with the help of chipmakers and developments in SDI equalizer circuit and SDI distributor, manufacturers now offer SDI control matrices.
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We are Macmillan. Cancer Support
Find out how we produce our information|
Regular breast screening using mammography is the best way to detect early breast cancers| as they are often more successfully treated.
Large research trials estimate that breast screening can help reduce the risk of dying from breast cancer by 15%. However, as well as helping to save lives there are some potential disadvantages| to breast screening.
In women who have breast screening, most cancers are found at an early stage when there is a good chance that treatment will be successful. In the UK more than half of the breast cancers found through screening are discovered very early: when they are very small and haven't spread to the lymph nodes close to the breast.
Over 19 million women have had breast screening in the UK since the Breast Screening Programme was set up in 1988. In this time, it has found more than 117,000 cancers.
A report in 2006, by the Advisory Committee on Breast Cancer Screening, indicated that screening saved 1,400 lives a year in England. Research by the International Association for Cancer Research has shown that for every 500 women who have breast screening one life will be saved.
Women who take part in breast screening reduce their risk of dying from breast cancer.
In women who have breast screening, cancer is more likely to be found early. This means that the cancer is likely to be small and there is more chance that it can be removed by a lumpectomy (removal of the lump) rather than needing a mastectomy (removal of the whole breast). Approximately 7 out of 10 (70%) women whose breast cancer is diagnosed by screening have breast conserving therapy, compared with 55% of women diagnosed outside the screening programme.
For answers, support or just a chat, call the Macmillan Support Line free* (Monday to Friday, 9am-8pm).
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If you have any questions about cancer, need support or just want someone to talk to, ask Macmillan.
It is up to you whether you go for breast screening. It could help to find out the facts, which you can do by reading our cancer information team's blog in our online community. There, you can talk over your options with people who understand.


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The White Stripes to release 'Nine Miles From The White City' live album
The White Stripes will release a live album titled 'Nine Miles From The White City', it has been confirmed.
The release will come through Jack White's Third Man Records Vault subscription service and will be released as a double vinyl LP featuring 26 songs. Recorded at Chicago's Aragon Ballroom in 2003, the tracklisting includes fan favourites such as 'Hotel Yorba' and 'Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground' as well as a number of cover versions of songs by Bob Dylan and Captain Beefheart.
The release celebrates 10 years since the release of The White Stripes album Elephant in 2003 and will come with a 7" featuring demos of the Elephant tracks 'I Want to Be the Boy to Warm Your Mother's Heart' and 'Little Acorns' as well as photos of the recording sessions for the album taken by David Swanson. A snippet of the demo version of The White Stripes 'I Want to Be the Boy To Warm Your Mother's Heart' can be heard below.
Nine Miles From the White City tracklisting:
'When I Hear My Name'
'Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground'
'Love Sick' (Bob Dylan cover)
'Hotel Yorba'
'Cool Drink of Water Blues' (Tommy Johnson cover)
'The Hardest Button To Button'
'I Want to Be The Boy To Warm Your Mother's Heart'
'Stones in My Passway' (Robert Johnson cover)
'Stop Breakin' Down' (Robert Johnson cover)
'In the Cold, Cold Night'
'Seven Nation Army'
'The Same Boy You've Always Known'
'Black Jack Davey'
'We Are Going to Be Friends'
'Offend in Every Way'
'Little Cream Soda'
'Cannon/'Party Of Special Things To Do' (Captain Beefheart cover)
'Candy Cane Children'
'The Air Near My Fingers'
'Screwdriver' (tease)
'Ball And Biscuit'
'Screwdriver' (reprise)
'Let's Build a Home'
'Goin' Back to Memphis' (Henry & June cover)
Photo credit: Autumn de Wilde


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Principal > Daily News > News |
Pdvsa still in the eye of the storm *State-run oil company Petróleos de Venezuela (Pdvsa)
is facing gradual dismantling, which has led to a decline
in output and productivity rates compared to past performance,
Monday, May 16 said oil expert José Toro Hardy. *He added that Pdvsa oil output has dropped by some 700,000 bpd. *The Comptrollership is entitled to monitor state oil company
Petróleos de Venezuela (Pdvsa), but "due to a longstanding
culture, it was thought that the company was beyond the public
control," Venezuelan Comptroller General Clodosvaldo Russián
said. *According to Russian, once reviewed, the instrument could be ready for endorsement in four-week time. *A report submitted to the National Assembly (AN) Comptrollership
Committee by former attorneys of the western division of state
oil company Petróleos de Venezuela (Pdvsa) shows that
the holding is far from unburden the judicial, administrative
and tax caseload following the 2003 strike. *The instruction given by President Hugo Chávez to the
parties to operational agreements for payment in bolivars
was the cherry that decorates a cake with explosive ingredients
-income tax increase from 35 to 50 percent, review of tax
statements for the last four fiscal years, sale of revenues
to the Venezuelan Central Bank and compulsory migration to
joint venture with a major sharing of state oil company Petróleos
de Venezuela (Pdvsa) within six months. *National Assembly (AN) president Nicolás Maduro Tuesday
ensured the lawmaking body will not allow Rafael Ramírez,
Energy and Petroleum Minister and president of state-owned
oil company Petróleos de Venezuela (Pdvsa), to be exposed
to any mass media show. *Ramírez was scheduled to appear in parliament on Tuesday to provide a rationale for Pdvsa performance, oil operational agreements and a number of corruption claims within the oil conglomerate, Maduro announced on May 11. *Domestic energy policy is aimed at preserving resources
sovereignty, or control over foreign sharing and ensured payment
of royalties to the state, Ministry of Energy and Petroleum
Rafael Ramírez said Wednesday, May 18. *In his view, foreign control included reforms to oil-related rules and regulations and oil opening. *State oil company Petróleos de Venezuela (Pdvsa) has
delivered, in five-month term, 50 percent of the amount budgeted
for 2005. *Venezuelan Vice-President José Vicente Rangel announced
demonstrations in defense of state oil company Petróleos
de Venezuela (Pdvsa) beginning next week. *"These persons are quite away from reality, witch trainees who do not understand how does Venezuela work. If they dare to do anything, they will be defeated." *Oil and Petroleum Minister Rafael Ramírez Friday said
the state-run oil company Petróleos de Venezuela (Pdvsa)
staff must "set Venezuela free from old agreements and deals
that endangered and tied the economic sovereignty of the country." *According to the high-ranking official, former Pdvsa management executed a series of agreements with multinational companies. "These deals were aimed at privatizing our (oil) industry by means of outsourcing." *US Ambassador William Brownfield ruled out Friday any link
of the United States with a drop in Venezuelan oil output. *"Lack of cooperation, termination of exchange or common programs is a shame, because, all in all, ordinary citizens pay for it, because they are the real victim of terrorism, crime and illicit drug traffic," he noted. |
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Copyright @ Diario El Universal C.A. 2004 |


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New King James Version (NKJV) | New International Version (NIV) |
1 A Michtam of David. Preserve me, O God, for in You I put my trust. | 1 Keep me safe, O God, for in you I take refuge. |
2 O my soul, you have said to the Lord, "You are my Lord, My goodness is nothing apart from You." | 2 I said to the LORD, "You are my Lord; apart from you I have no good thing." |
3 As for the saints who are on the earth, "They are the excellent ones, in whom is all my delight." | 3 As for the saints who are in the land, they are the glorious ones in whom is all my delight. |
4 Their sorrows shall be multiplied who hasten after another god; Their drink offerings of blood I will not offer, Nor take up their names on my lips. | 4 The sorrows of those will increase who run after other gods. I will not pour out their libations of blood or take up their names on my lips. |
5 O Lord, You are the portion of my inheritance and my cup; You maintain my lot. | 5 LORD, you have assigned me my portion and my cup; you have made my lot secure. |
6 The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places; Yes, I have a good inheritance. | 6 The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance. |
7 I will bless the Lord who has given me counsel; My heart also instructs me in the night seasons. | 7 I will praise the LORD, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. |
8 I have set the Lord always before me; Because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved. | 8 I have set the LORD always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. |
9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoices; My flesh also will rest in hope. | 9 Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure, |
10 For You will not leave my soul in Sheol, Nor will You allow Your Holy One to see corruption. | 10 because you will not abandon me to the grave, nor will you let your Holy One see decay. |
11 You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore. | 11 You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. |
Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved. (New King James Version) | Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. (New International Version Bible Online) |


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This strikingly original book isn't really a biography of Pat Nixon. But then, short-story scribe Ann Beattie might argue that straight biographies aren't relevant anymore. ''Memoirs now are usually about people no one would have heard of until they read the book,'' she writes, ''while novels increasingly invoke historical figures.'' Indeed, Curtis Sittenfeld's recent Laura Bush-based novel American Wife stirred up more debate than any memoir from a First Lady ever could. So what Beattie offers in Mrs. Nixon: A Novelist Imagines a Life is both timely and unique: a postmodern take on Nixon's life that blurs fact and fiction. Some chapters find her imagining Nixon's reactions to real-life events (getting spat upon during a diplomatic trip to Venezuela) or made-up situations (baking cookies with Hillary Clinton). Other chapters take the form of lists (''Mrs. Nixon's Nicknames, Including Her Code Name as First Lady'') or letters (in ''My Anticipated Mail,'' Beattie predicts the angry responses she'll get from Nixon fans). Yet the most compelling sections read like literary criticism, as Beattie compares Nixon to the protagonists in The Great Gatsby and The Glass Menagerie, interpreting her story as if it were somebody's Great American Tragedy which, in some ways, it was.
At times, the real insights about Nixon get lost in too much cleverness, with the First Lady feeling like a prop in a writing exercise. But the bookish analysis mostly works: As Beattie says, ''Mrs. Nixon is a fictional character, only to the extent we all are, having both public and private selves.'' It's a very of-the-moment view of celebrity and an appropriate one for a woman who was wrapped up in one story or another, from the Checkers speech to Watergate. B+


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Cool Down and Tone Up? Yes! If staying cool and getting healthy are your goals this summer, we've got you covered! According to Ayurvedic medicine, summer's heat can be alleviated by consuming astringent vegetables combined with "cooling herbs". The warmer months are the prime time to find healthy fruits, vegetables and herbs, especially of the kind Ayurvedic medicine calls "cooling", such as collard greens, chard, spinach, salad greens, celery, summer squash, dill, mint, and cucumbers. Even better, for once, you can stop calorie counting! Fruits and vegetables are low in calories and offer essential vitamins and minerals that your body needs in order to be in top shape. These foods also have a high water content, which our bodies need more of when temperatures start to soar. How Does Eating the Ayurvedic Way Work?
The main principle of Ayurvedic medicine considers Many ailments are caused by an imbalance within the body, and a healthy natural diet that includes fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables is sometimes all that is needed to restore this natural balance. Therefore, eating a healthy, natural diet can help alleviate many pre-existing ailments and conditions. Another thing to keep in mind is how we treat our digestive systems. Many forms of traditional medicine, including Ayurvedic and Chinese, advise against the consumption of ice-cold beverages, especially before eating. Cold beverages slow the digestive "fire", making it harder to digest and extract nutrients from the foods we eat. Ideally, beverages should be enjoyed at room temperature, or barely chilled. At minimum, avoid cold beverages immediately before and after meals. This summer, stay cool by limiting:
To promote regular bowel movements, try Natural Moves™. To promote healthy digestion and comfort after meals, try DigestAssist™
To maintain a healthy weight & balanced metabolism, plus assist slimming programs, try EcoSlim™. To support normal levels of systemic Candida and balanced probiotic flora in the body, try Candidate™
For healthy energy levels, vitality and stamina, try Fatigue Fighter™
To promote natural cleansing, detoxification and toxin elimination, try Detox Drops ™ As always, natural remedies can help you at every step of the way. Whether it's to support weight-loss efforts and digestion or promote healthy energy levels, nature provides us with everything we need to stay healthy, fit and cool …naturally!
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Accidental Springfield Garden Apartment Fire (No Working Smoke Alarms)
Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department
4100 Chain Bridge Rd, Fairfax, Virginia 22030
Phone: 703-246-3801, TTY: 711 and Fax:703-385-1687
Duty PIO (Weekends/After-hours): 703-877-3702
News Release 11-82
Date: November 7, 2011
Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department units responded to a garden apartment fire Saturday, November 5, 2011, at approximately 5:10 a.m. in the Springfield area of Fairfax County. The apartment is located at 7236 Commerce Street.
Firefighters encountered heavy fire and smoke coming from the rear of a ground floor apartment and rapidly extending upwards to the eaves of the second and third floors upon arrival. The incident commander struck a second alarm, bringing approximately 60 firefighters to the scene of the three story building. It took firefighters approximately 70 minutes to bring the fire under control. Six apartments within the building received some fire, smoke, and water damage, the other five apartments all received some residual smoke and water damage. More than 70 occupants were displaced because of the power being shut down and extensive fire and water damage. Occupants were temporarily moved to Garfield Elementary School with additional long term support provided by the Red Cross. One occupant was transported to the Springfield Healthplex with a non-life threatening injury. The apartment building had multiple non-working smoke alarms in the building. Prior to leaving, firefighters checked and installed working smoke alarms in apartments in the fire building and the apartment building adjacent.
Damage for all apartment units is estimated at $750,000.
According to fire investigators, the fire was accidental. An electrical anomaly within a refrigerator motor caused the fire.
For more information, call Daniel L. Schmidt or Captain I Randal Bittinger, Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department, 703-246-3801 and TTY: 711. Fairfax County is committed to nondiscrimination on the basis of disability in all county programs, services and activities. Reasonable accommodations will be provided upon request.