text:
Garden Swing Chair
Oval Side Table
Floral Ultimate Microfiber Furniture Protectors
Mug Tree & Mugs
Nesting Storage Set
Komfy Knees
PedEgg Power
Book Pillow
Z-Strap Spa Slippers
The most comfortable kneeling pad out there! Unlike other kneeling pads, this one uses multiple layers of shock-absorbing memory foam for unbelievable comfort and support whether sitting or kneeling on the hardest surfaces. Lightweight design and comfortable carrying handle makes it easy to tote to your garden, outdoor events and more. Waterproof neoprene cover wipes clean. Kneeling Pad (20"W x 2"H x 12"D)
Follow Fresh Finds!
Copyright 2015. Fresh Finds, LLC /
All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy
Message from Fresh Finds
Fresh Finds
We are now accepting PayPal as a form of payment. For those of you unfamiliar
with PayPal, it is a Web-based service that enables you to pay an online
merchant without revealing your financial information. We've added this payment
option to better meet your expressed needs for confidence, control, convenience
and choice in your payment methods.
Learn more
about PayPal and decide if you would like to set up a PayPal account.
Thanks for visiting our Web site - come back soon!
Close Window


text:
Come on and tag along with me to the community of Longview in Oktibbeha County.
The day is Oct. 16, 1978. Our car stops right in front and outside of Montgomery Grocery. My three grown children have said to me, "Now Mama, don't call a service station a filling station. That sounds really old fashioned." Well, I grew up calling where you drive up to get gas a place to fill up, so its a filling station!
Time passes us by and the coo-coo clock on my wall above my computer just ticks and "coo-coos" every half and whole hour. Sometimes in a place like Longview the clock seems to tick by slightly slower, maybe? It is a great community filled with wonderful people.
Let my pencil marks and brush strokes talk to us on this 18-inch-by-24-inch stretched canvas as I begin to tell you of the memory of that day. First, look at the painting as a whole completed piece of work, and then let's begin to really study it for all the details within it. We'll read it left to right starting at the left hand side at the top till we reach the right hand bottom of the canvas.
It has been great to have painted my life's experiences as I have lived my entire life day by day in a place I was raised. I have traveled around the world, and in these United States of America too, but I love my own native town, Starkville, my county, Oktibbeha, and university, Mississippi State University. All three just fit me like a comfortable shoe and have been what I loved and knew best. I painted what I saw right here underneath my own two feet. My native and much beloved Mississippi become a colorful palette and a way of my own expression to myself about who I really am and my own deepest beliefs. It is a great satisfaction to then use my pen and my computer to tell you when, why and where I painted it. I have had a great, fulfilling life for which I am most grateful.
Let's begin by slipping inside with our eyes just behind the glass window. There is a dark background to the left side, and find the little crack in the window pane. See it? I captured a gentleman named Aaron Love dressed in his faded railroad cap, overalls and plaid blue, long-sleeved, checkered flannel shirt. It was at the end of October, and the early morning was almost cold. It was one of the last pleasant days I could go out and paint without freezing to death myself. I bet his warm flannel shirt felt cozy and his heavy overalls were keeping his legs and whole upper body warm, too. Is he going to purchase his pumpkin for a pumpkin pie?
Go on to the shelves stacked with items for sale. Find the electric Coke Cola clock hanging on the wall. I caught only a glimpse of the bottom of this clock. See the black wall (or is it a shelf?). Is it something else within the inside of the store? Next is the glass window panes and the lime green outside almost shining inside. Find the yellow/green bananas ripening as they are hanging on the leaning old reddish/brown post. One bunch of bananas is dangling from maybe the ceiling itself, and the other two bunches are hanging on nails.
Look at the other shapes of stacked boxes and just plain junk inside the grocery store. You decide what they are. It is fun to let your eyes go up and down the front of the window as if we are both flies on the wall inside peeping into the store.
Go back to the left hand side and start looking at all the pumpkins lined up like soldiers on the ledge of the window sill. Find the dark green acorn squash and bright yellow squash mixed in among the bright orange pumpkins. By the vegetables is a faded red and blue sign which reads, "Member of Mississippi Forestry Association 1978." See it? Mississippi is a great forestry state and brings in lots of income for all economically.
Now let's slip outside with our eyes to a window surrounded by a cobalt blue square wooden box and a long large wooden cobalt blue deacon's bench. The bright orange pumpkins and this cobalt blue compliment each other very well. I love these two colors together, don't you? I can just imagine folks down at Longview sitting and loafing for hours just chatting, gossiping about politics and what is going on in this world back in 1978. I can just bet you a whole quarter and I can actually hear them talking now about lots of stories of old times back when and what is the going on right then, and about what might happen in the future. Does this not sound familiar with all of us today?
On the side of the white storefront which almost looks very old wood there is an air hose just hanging on for dear life with a sagging old bent metal holder. Folks would drive up, unscrew the little cap on the tire and pump up their own tire if it seem low at all. Then they would mosey on in the store to get a Coke Cola and a bag of very salty peanuts, pop off the cap on the coke bottle, pour those peanuts inside to watch them float back up to the rim of the top of the bottle and chug-a-lug the soda and the peanuts down into their throats within minutes. I suppose a Coke and peanuts do give one a lift from feeling sluggish in the middle of an afternoon until supper time. Maybe it is the caffeine in the soda that helps too.
At the far right see the old brick pillow of the store. Look for all the shades of reds, browns, grays, blues, purples and oranges within the bricks themselves. All of these colors add personality to the bricks and the store. Have not the bricks aged beautifully? I think so.
I have always loved this laid back painting. It's relaxing and peaceful. The colors speak for themselves as they all blend in together.
These bright orange pumpkins were probably home-grown right here in the Longview and the acorn squash as well. Seeing them made me think of the recipe of Mama's when she baked acorn squash. She put lots of brown and white sugar with globs of butter inside them after she had sliced them into sections. I think she used to scoop out their seeds and all of the sugars and butter and had found a nesting spot while they baked inside the oven. They were delicious. Can you not imagine folks mingling in and out of the old grocery?
Do you feel like you know and love Mr. Aaron Love? I think I do. His personality seems so pleasant and relaxed, too. I just know he must be a lovely gentleman. Is he the owner or is he a customer? Too many years have passed. We do know that he is in deep contemplation of which pumpkin or acorn squash he is wanting to select. When I as an artist get to capture a human being in a painting doing something without his even knowing that he is being captured on my canvas, it is as if we have captured the one second, minute and hour of his or her life without his ever knowing that he will live forever on a piece of stretched canvas.
If only I could tell him now, "Thank you, Mr. Love. You made this painting breathe and come alive, and I appreciate this very much. Happy Autumn to you too!"
Carole McReynolds Davis is a local artist. Email her at email@example.com more articles in:

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Archdiocese of Chicago
CAVA Online Membership Registration 2014-2015
Please fill out the form below and click the submit button at the bottom of the
form to submit your membership registration. You can also follow the link below
for a mail-in copy of the registration form.
Membership Form
Membership Level:
2014-2015 Fees - $75.00 Full, $40.00 Associate (Your membership
is important to us. If the fee structure is prohibitive, we encourage you to select
an appropriate scholarship option below and continue with your registration, or
call us at 312-534-5240.)
Make check out to CAVA
Mail to:
Office for Religious/CAVA
Quigley Pastoral Center
835 N Rush St., Chicago, IL, 60611-2030
Scholarship Level:
Scholarship Level:
Billing Information:
Bill To ContactBill To Other Mailing AddressBill To Other Email Address
Contact Information:
Committee Participation:
CAVA members are encouraged to attend committee meetings for vocation event planning.
Please indicate your level of participation for each committee. Occasional offsite
participation is available.
Active – Participation in planning, conducting and evaluating Committee Events
Auxiliary – Limited participation in committee events
Chicago Archdiocesan Office for Protection of Children and Youth compliance:
CAVA Members who participate in the collaborative vocation events are considered
Volunteers in the Archdiocese of Chicago and are expected to be in compliance with
the requirements for Volunteers as outlined by the Office of Protection of Children
and Youth. Details of how to complete this requirement will be shared with members
upon registration.
© Archdiocese of Chicago - 835 N. Rush St., Chicago, IL 60611-2030
All Rights Reserved. Privacy
To direct your questions or comments about this website
click here


text:
I like sports. Mainly basketball, baseball, football, soccer, hockey. @wheelsismyname
Ryan Wright posted 1357 days ago
Hunter, thanks for reading and the follow. I appreciate your time. -Ryan
Hunter does not have any awards.
Choose Teams
Real-time news for your favorite teams, right on your mobile device.
Download Now
B/R's Writer Program and Advanced Program in Sports Media can give you the edge you need to get ahead.
Apply Now
Copyright © 2015 Bleacher Report, Inc. Turner Broadcasting System, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
BleacherReport.com is part of Bleacher Report - Turner Sports Network, part of the Turner Sports and Entertainment Network.
Certain photos copyright © 2015 by Getty Images.
Any commercial use or distribution without the express written consent of Getty Images is strictly prohibited.


text:
Covance Discusses Incinerator With Officials; PCRM Releases Report About Dangers
Covance Laboratories, a contract animal-testing company seeking to build a large facility in Chandler, Ariz., has taken the first steps to obtain permission from the county for an incinerator to dispose of toxic animal carcasses. In response, PCRM has released a report by Aysha Akhtar, M.D., M.P.H., describing the possible dangers such an incinerator would pose to the citizens of Chandler.
According to PCRM's report, the Covance incinerator would be a first for Chandler. While there are multiple crematories in Maricopa County, a Covance incinerator will likely differ from other county incinerators in two important ways. First, it is expected to burn much larger volumes of animal carcasses than the existing crematories, perhaps in addition to other associated medical wastes. Studies suggest that there are hazards unique to animal carcass incinerators. They may be more likely to emit toxins such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and certain heavy metals such as lead, zinc, and iron than other types of incinerators. Second, a Covance incinerator will likely burn animal carcasses containing concentrated levels of industrial chemicals, insecticides, pesticides, and experimental drugs.
Individuals living near incinerators could be exposed to toxic chemicals through inhalation of contaminated air, skin contact with or ingestion of contaminated soil, and consumption of contaminated food or water. Children, the elderly, pregnant women, subsistence farmers, and those with respiratory, immune, or cardiovascular disorders are especially vulnerable to related health problems.
"Covance's planned incinerator will likely burn thousands of dead animals who had been used to test toxic substances, and these emissions could endanger the health of people in Chandler and all over Maricopa County," Dr. Akhtar said.


text:
Docu-fiction, docu-réalité, web-documentaire... Le documentaire, qui existe depuis toujours à la télévision, est aujourd'hui en pleine mutation. Rencontre avec Cédric Mal, directeur de publication du "Blog documentaire".
Via Edwige Morin
Get Started for FREE
Sign up with Facebook Sign up with Twitter
I don't have a Facebook or a Twitter account
Your new post is loading...
Your new post is loading...
Mike Donahue's curator insight, July 2, 12:34 PM
This is my new must read for everyone. Lassiter's insights about computer graphics (CG) transcend his industry. They offer guidance for UX and web designers (any designer really) and businesses alike. His comments on storytelling and emotion connection are the key to success in design and business. I will be quoting this article for years to come.
I would absolutely recommend this to everyone.
The Digital Rocking Chair's curator insight, June 28, 4:39 PM
Houston Howard's powerful case for why screenwriters should embrace transmedia ... it's the key to innovating the independent film industry!
GERARD CASANOVA's curator insight, June 29, 3:13 AM
Un bel exemple de webdoc mettant en oeuvre toutes sortes de médias sans oubllier la partie pédagogique avec des documents complémentaires
Beth Dichter's curator insight, June 2, 6:23 AM
If you are looking for some great tools that will provide inspiration for learners to write stories check out this post by Richard Byrne. He provides ten tools that you may find useful.
The first section has two tools that help learners create collages, Canva, PicCollage (Android and iPad app), and PicMonkey (browser based). He also suggests using ThingLink as a tool for learners to enhance their collage (and links to a tutorial).
The second section looks at "threading images into stories." Thematic allows you to upload images and display up to twenty in a story with one line of text for each image. Storehouse is a free iPad app that allows you to use images and video and arrange them with a line of text above or below the image or video clip. Adobe Slate is a free iPad app that also allows you to create stories and has more features than Storehouse.
The final section looks at creating picture books and suggest My Storybook (web based), Picture Book Maker (web based) and Little Story Creator (free iPad app).
Each of these tools is described in more detail in the post. As this school year draws to a close your class might enjoy using one of these tools to create a story about what they have learned this year.
The Digital Rocking Chair's curator insight, May 19, 4:17 PM
Molly Ebner: "In a search for similarity, one particular aspect of the human psyche stands out. This is our underlying desire for beauty, which differs from person to person. Regardless, we are all compelled to seek it out in life. And when we find it, a feeling of content resonates within."
The Digital Rocking Chair's curator insight, June 2, 7:17 AM
Jonny Mole: "Stories are in our make-up. They help us interpret meaning, connect with people across generations, and articulate really complex stuff in easily digestible snippets. The advertising & media industries are built on their ability to tell compelling stories. Stories of love, stories of hate, and stories of redemption."
Angie Weihs's curator insight, June 10, 1:23 PM
I write futuristic fiction to inspire and alert; future tech can free us as much as enslave us.
Dennis T OConnor's curator insight, May 18, 12:37 PM
This looks promising. The CC requirement for online video means all online teachers need to step up their game on subtitling. I was made aware of this product by Jeremiah Stanley, a tech-talented graduate student in my E-Learning Practicum class.
Jeremiah reported Aegisum as "...a free, cross-platform open source tool for creating subtitles. The testing I have done with it so far let me create subtitles and load the file into YouTube and Vimeo. There is also a large number of file types you can output to with Aegisub so if the educators do not use either YouTube or Vimeo they could still caption there videos."
Jeremiah and I will drive this product hard and see where it leads.
The Digital Rocking Chair's curator insight, May 17, 2:18 AM
Amie Mills: "When we're talking about transmedia, we're starting to use terms like story world, where you have many stories told using multiple media forms, across many different channels and platforms … and how that content lives and breathes is uniquely tailored to the platform you're viewing it on." via Ben Fahy of StopPress
The Digital Rocking Chair's curator insight, May 12, 4:52 PM
Producer Foundry: "Randy [Hall] and Ben [Yennie] welcome Maya Zuckerman, co-founder of TransmediaSF, to answer the question, "what is transmedia?" and why every filmmaker needs to pay attention to this way of thinking about their projects."


text:
PUBLIC VIEWPOINT: Keep Elmwood Team Intact, Strong
Posted: February 27, 2013 at 1:20 a.m.
As a parent of two Elmwood students, I have given much thought to the boundary proposal and how it will affect my children and my children's school. Westside families will not be the only ones aff ected.
This story is only available from our archives.
Opinion, Pages 5 on 02/27/2013
« Previous Story
BETWEEN THE LINES: State GOP Needs To Listen ...
If Arkansas' Republican-led Legislature doesn't want to follow Democratic Gov. Mike Beebe's lead on Medicaid expansion, maybe they'll listen to the growing number of Republ... Read »
Next Story »
Dear Abby: I need help and I can't talk to anyone I know, so I'm pouring my heart out to you. My husband is addicted to online porn. Our sex life has suffered massively bec... Read »


text:
IT has been helping the business make connections with
partners via portals and Web applications, but it has been
punching holes in the network in the process. Insecure legacy
systems that weren't made to be online are now fully connected,
giving more individuals than ever access to critical data. On top
of that, users have been increasingly utilizing mobile devices,
transporting data outside company walls. All this contributes to
heightened threats that can't be addressed by traditional signature-based anti-virus software and old-guard firewalls.
"The whole perception about security is changing, as managers realize that they are letting more people come into their
organization and onto their network to access their
systems," says Deven Bhatt, director of corporate
security for Airlines Reporting Corp. (ARC). "They
are partnering with more and more people and are
connected with everyone. And because of that,
they must have information-centric security."
Bhatt is right: There is a growing awareness of
a new generation of risks. In our survey, we asked
security insiders what the two greatest internal
threats to security are. Thirty-three percent said
internal user ignorance of privacy regulations, and
21 percent said internal user theft of data.
They were also concerned about the loss and
theft of tech devices. Thirty-one percent put theft
of laptops and mobile devices in their top list of
worries, and 17 percent added theft and loss of portable media.
The problem is that the knowledge of these risks has not
resulted in corresponding actions designed to mitigate them.
When we asked survey participants which five security technologies accounted for the highest share of their total security
investment, the resounding leaders weren't technologies that
prevented insider theft or accidental data loss. They were—you
guessed it—firewalls and anti-virus software. Approximately
59 percent reported firewalls in their top five security expenses,
and 48 percent put anti-virus in that pool. Also high on the
list was e-mail security, including anti-spam technology, which
36 percent of survey respondents placed in their top five.
The gap between the security spend and today's risks
was distressing, if not particularly surprising, to the security
experts we informed about the survey results.
"For most organizations—even some of the larger Fortune
1000 companies we work with—security spending is not even
close to being in line with the risks and threats they are trying
to address," says Adam Muntner, co-founder of QuietMove, a
security consultancy in Scottsdale, Ariz. As a security assessor
and penetration tester, he sees plenty of companies relying on
older network-centric technologies as their only protection. In
some cases, they aren't even up to date with the technologies
offered by this network-based security approach.
"We're working with a hospital system that has a lot of patientand research data," Muntner says. "They have firewalls and anti-virus software, but they've never had an internalvulnerability management program. They don'teven have an automated vulnerability scanner."We convinced them of the value of having one,and they're getting ready to put one in, but this situa-tion is so common. In this case, they had to go to theirCIO and spend a month making the case about whyit was important. The thing that finally convincedthe CIO was that all the other hospitals in the stateare using an automated vulnerability scanner."Organizations such as these are ripe for attacksand slip-ups if they aren't dedicating enough oftheir budget to a broader range of technologies.For example, companies that focus on anti-virusand firewall technologies without putting enoughmoney into encryption risk high-profile data breaches throughlost laptops or other mobile devices.
"It shocks me when I learn somebody's laptop was stolen
or hard drive was lost," says ARC's Bhatt. "Didn't we have the
Veteran's Administration incident two years ago? How can somebody still not be encrypting the sensitive data on their devices?"
The holes left open by these perimeter-type technologies
are endless. Without proper monitoring and policy enforcement, trusted insiders can easily access or steal data. Hackers
can overwhelm the signature-based technologies most anti-virus vendors rely on, and they can get around firewalls by
attacking the application layer and vulnerabilities left open by
dodgy patch- and configuration-management practices. Cyber-criminals also find ways to sign on as trusted users due to lax
authentication management.
For mostorganizations—even some of theFortune 1000companies wework with—security spendingis not even closeto being in linewith the risks andthreats they aretrying to address.—Adam Muntner, Quiet Move
Anti-virus soft ware
Anti-spyware soft ware 21%
E-mail security 36%
SSL virtual private networks
Wireless security
Intrusion detection/prevention software
Web filtering
Web access control
Encryption for transmitting data & documents
Patch management
Encryption for storing data & documents
Security auditing
Database security (monitoring, encryption)
IPsec virtual private networks
Configuration management
Spam e-mail attacks
Hacking of company Web sites
Distributed denial-of-service attacks
Zero-day exploits of software vulnerabilities
Attacks via botnets/Zombie PCs
Wireless attacks
Automated/scripted attacks
Encryption attacks 8%
Illegal domain hijacking 5%
BGP attacks 2%
Other types of attack 3%
Currently Using
Having Highest Share
of IT Investment
Click to subscribe to this magazine


text:
An apparatus for merging real and virtual images in which points in three dimensions of an actual scene are obtained and selected in a random fashion and in a number sufficient to track the movement of the three dimensional scene relative to an observer wearing the apparatus. Updating of selected points occurs responsive to movement of a video camera pair observing the actual scene. The position and orientation of the unit housing the video camera pair is utilized to properly merge a generated virtual image with the real image. Selection of points and orientation of the unit relative to a three dimensional real image are obtained in real time. Microprocessor-based apparatus is utilized to perform the method of the invention.
1. A method for determining in real time a position and orientation of a camera pair based upon an observed environment within said camera pair's field of view comprising the steps of:
(a) obtaining an image of a region observed by each camera of said camera pair;
(b) identifying distinctive points in said image;
(c) determining current three dimensional positions of said distinctive points by comparing information obtained from each camera of said camera pair;
(d) analyzing said three-dimensional positions to determine position and orientation of said camera pair; and
(e) repeating steps (c) and (d) at given intervals;
and further comprising:
discarding points identified during a given interval which are not identified in a subsequent interval.
2. The method of claim 1 further comprising replacing said discarded points in a random manner.
The present invention relates to personal display systems and more particularly to a display system which uniquely combines both virtual and real images in "real time".
Virtual reality systems are presently in widespread use and typically comprise a headset display which presents an image which is generated to simulate a real image (hence, "virtual" reality). Virtual reality systems lack the capability of presenting real images and especially lack the capability of presenting virtual images combined with real images and especially in "real time".
The present invention provides a dual reality (DR) system which is characterized by providing apparatus and a process in which computer generated objects and images similar to those created by virtual reality systems, appear to the participant in the real world.
Similar to virtual reality, the dual reality environment is presented to the observer by way of a headset or visor which, similar to the virtual reality visor, provides a virtual image, and, in addition thereto, presents a stereoscopic view of the real environment through the employment of a pair of cameras coupled to the visor through a computer to present a stereoscopic view of the real environment to the participant through the visor.
The computer performs triangulation calculations which determine the distances from the visor to the selected navigational points to determine the position and orientation of the visor, which process will hereinafter be referred to as "visual navigation".
As one example, a computer generated object, such as a ball, viewed through the dual reality visor appears to float in front of the wearer. The observed surroundings are coupled to the visor display from the cameras and present a view of the actual surroundings as opposed to a computer generated display (i.e., a computer generated display of the actual surroundings.
The system employs environment mapping which can, for example, generate an image of the ball which appears to bounce on a real table in front of the participant or against real walls of a room that the participant is observing.
The dual reality system and method utilizes three basic components which include:
(a) a visual navigation technique which determines the location and orientation of the dual reality system in a real three-dimensional space utilizing random points selected from an observed field of view;
(b) the dual reality superimposition technique superimposes computer generated objects with images of the real three-dimensional space. An observer wearing a dual reality headset employing visual navigation can walk around a computer generated object in his or her real surroundings, observing the object from all sides. Hereafter, computer generated objects and images will be referred to as supplemental objects or collectively as supplemental reality;
(c) environment mapping is the process by which supplemental objects are caused to "interact" with the real environment and with the observer identifying surfaces (such as walls, tables, panels, hands, etc.) in three-dimensional space wherein mathematical rules govern the interaction of supplemental objects with objects or surfaces in the real environment.
It is therefore one object of the present invention to provide a display which presents to an observer a dual reality image in which a computer generated image is superimposed with and reacts with a real image.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a display to an observer in which random points selected from a field of view are utilized to determine the location and orientation of the observer in a real three-dimensional space.
Still another object of the present invention is to provide a dual reality image presented to an observer by way of a visor worn by the observer, which dual reality image presents a computer generated image (virtual image) interacting with an actual three-dimensional image.
Still another object of the present invention is to provide a dual reality display presenting a virtual image interacting with a real, three-dimensional image wherein the interaction is obtained in accordance with pre-determined mathematical rules which govern the interaction.
The above as well as other objects of the present invention will become apparent when reading the accompanying description and drawings in which:
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a dual reality operating system.
FIG. 1a shows a head set mounted upon a participant.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the dual reality operating cycle.
FIG. 3 is a flow diagram depicting the visual navigation method.
FIGS. 4 through 16 are series of two and three-dimensional plots useful in describing the techniques of the present invention.
FIG. 1 shows a dual reality system 10 in simplified block diagram form which is comprised of two cameras 12 and 14 having imaging systems preferably comprised of charge coupled devices (CCDs) each respectively coupled to at least one video capture card 16, 18. The video capture cards each enable an associated CPU 20, which may be one or more than one computer, to convert the video input to screen pixels whereby the video images can be analyzed in a memory as well as being displayed on a screen 22.
The system is preferably designed to be completely self-contained either in a headset 24 (see FIG. 1a) or a small backpack or sidepouch 24 a coupled to unit 24 by a wire W or by a wireless transmitter/receiver combination. The system may also utilize a wireless communication link between the headset and a medium or large size computer remote from the headset.
Visual Navigation
Visual navigation is utilized to determine location and orientation. The observer, as shown in FIG. 1a wears a headset 24. The orientation of the observer's head (the observer's viewing direction), in much the same way as an observer views a real environment through the naked eye, serves to direct the cameras 12, 14 to view the real environment so as to assume substantially the same location and orientation.
Definition of a "point"
The camera views the real environment and identifies a point on the surface of the environment as a small square grid of pixels, comprising sufficiently few pixels to most likely be part of only one physical object, and a sufficient number of pixels to reliably and uniquely identify that point and which may, as one example, be a 20×20 grid of pixels normally found, for example, in a conventional CCD imaging device, for example, of the type employed in video cameras.
A distinguishing characteristic of a point is a pattern of relative brightness and/or color within the small square grid.
During a point selection cycle, points are selected randomly using a mathematical algorithm. Any point which cannot be relocated during the next cycle of point selection is rejected. To be relocated, a point must match the previous point in birghtness/color in the location found significantly better than in any other location.
Definition of Visual Navigation
Employing the pair of cameras 12 and 14, a stereoscopic video input from the cameras is utilized to mathematically determine both position and orientation of the dual reality unit DRU 24.
Employing a starting point and absolute position as a reference, the position and orientation of unit 24 over time is determined by observing and tracking multiple, visibly distinguishable points within the field of view. Although in theory the system can work with as few as four points, for practical purposes the minimum number of points should fall within a range of 10 to 20. An increase in the number of points increases the accuracy of the system but tends to slow the system down. It is therefore a compromise between the number of points desired for accuracy weighed against a desired system speed.
"Visually distinguishable points" are defined as points with distinct patterns that can be relocated in the same general area within the field of view on subsequent search scans.
Tracking Points
The dual reality unit ("DRU") 24 maintains a constant number of points at all times, which points are located within its field of view. The unit tracks points by scanning the field of view looking for the same patterns in the same general area. An entire scan or iteration of the field of view is completed every thirty milliseconds. In order for the DRU 24 to match a point from iteration to iteration, there must be one and only one position in the same general area which stands out as the best match for the pattern.
A randomly selected point will be discarded for any of the following three reasons:
(a) the point moved out of the field of view and therefore is no longer useful for tracking (i.e., as the wearer turns his head to the right, points on the trailing edge of the field of view (the left edge) cease to exist and subsequent iterations as they leave the field of view, whereas points closer to the center or leading edge (the right edge) will survive for a greater number of iterations.
(b) the point was not on a fixed object; the point shifted, losing its distinguishing pattern (e.g., the point was on a moveable object such as an individual's shirt and the individual turned around); or the point moved differently relative to the other point selected (e.g., the point was on a moveable object such an individual shirt and the individual moved to the right while other points remained in a constant position or moved in concert to the left, as would be the case if the participant moved his head to the right and the individual in his field of view also moved to the right);
(c) the point did not contain a pattern unique enough to be tracked (e.g., a blank wall may be initially selected but would soon be rejected since the point would be located at multiple positions throughout the field of view).
Every time a point is discarded, a new point is randomly selected in the field of view. If the new point does not contain a sufficiently unique pattern, it will only survive one iteration, after which time another point will be selected.
The random selection is achieved by use of a random signal generator which randomly selects a new point by means of a standard mathematical formula seeded by the system clock of the microprocessor.
Calculation of Point Locations In Three Dimensions
Of the points that have proven reliable as a result of having existed for a number of iterations (e.g., 20 iterations—⅔ of a second), the DRU 24 calculates the location of those points in three dimensions which is accomplished by matching the point originally located by the right side camera ("camera A", for example, camera 14) in the left-side camera ("camera B", for example, camera 12).
Starting on the left perimeter of the general area of the field of view in which an original pattern is located, camera B scans to the right until a matching pattern is found, or the right perimeter of the field of view is reached, in which case the point is rejected. The triangulation calculation to be described hereinbelow is performed if one and only one perfect match is found. Using this match, the DRU 24 determines three (3) angles, as follows:
Angle a: from camera A to the point along the x-axis;
Angle b: from camera A to the point along the y-axis;
Angle c: from camera B to the point along the x-axis.
The angle from camera B to the point along the y-axis is the same as the angle from camera A to the point along the y-axis.
Using the above angles, the distance between the detected point and camera A is calculated employing analytic geometry and trigonometry. The position of the point will then be defined in terms of the position and orientation of camera A, which information is converted into relative Cartesian coordinates of that point in space, using the position and orientation of camera A as the reference for the Cartesian space.
Calculating Movement of the DRU Through Space
The relative Cartesian coordinates derived for each point from the most recent iteration are transferred to a separate calculation module in the computer which determines the movement of the unit 24 through space. The module performs the necessary calculations to determine the absolute position and orientation of unit 24. In calculating these values, the module uses relative Cartesian coordinates for points contained only in the current iteration and the absolute Cartesian coordinates for any points contained in the current iteration to which was assigned an absolute Cartesian coordinate in the previous iteration. A detailed description of the calculations will be set forth hereinbelow.
The participant's position is calculated relative to the participant's starting position (i.e. relative to the position and orientation of the unit 24 worn by the participant), and the point positions and the participant's position are described in terms of absolute and relative coordinates. From all points the transfer to the calculation module, ten sets of four points are each selected in a random fashion by means of a standard mathematical formula seeded by the system clock of the micro-processor. For each of ten sets of four points, the relative and absolute Cartesian coordinates are placed in a series of equations which, using analytic geometry, trigonometry, and basic matrix operations, provide a result set containing the absolute position and orientation of unit 24. Each result set is then compared with every other result set, and a subset of a specific number of sets which most agree with each other are averaged together. This average result set represents the absolute position and orientation of unit 24.
Visual Navigation Calculations
The sequence of calculations is as follows:
Establishing the Absolute Basis and Position of the Unit in the Absolute Basis
The term "basis" is a mathematical term defined as a "frame of reference".
The Absolute Basis is defined by the x, y and z axes. The position of unit 24 in this basis is defined as O (Ox, Oy, Oz). See FIG. 4.
Determining the DRU Basis and Orientation in Absolute Basis
The unit Basis is defined by the vectors X′, Y′ and Z′. The view of the unit 24 points along the Z′ vector and the Y′ vector extends upwardly through the top of unit 24. The orientation of the unit in Absolute Basis is defined by (see FIG. 5):
X′ is defined by the components (X′x, X′y, X′z),
Y′ is defined by the components (Y′x, Y′y, Y′z)
Z′ is defined by the components (Z′x, Z′y, Z′z) and
X′, Y′, AND Z′ are all unit vectors, i.e., they all have unit length.
Determining the Position of a Point in both the Absolute Basis and the DRU Basis
An observed object or point is defined as p, with a position (a, b, c) in the Absolute Basis, and a position (a′, b′, c′) in the DRU Basis. See FIG. 6.
Determining the Relationship between the Position of p in the Absolute Basis and the Position of p in the DRU Basis
Vector addition defines the relationship between p(a, b, c), and p(a′, b′, c′), as the following set of equations:
By observing points with known absolute positions, these equations establish the DRU Basis (X′, Y′, Z′), and the position of the DRU 24 in the Absolute Basis (O). This is the essence of Visual Navigation.
Determining the DRU Basis and the Position of the DRU in the Absolute Basis
Overview of Initial Process: Establishing the DRU basis and the Initial Position of the DRU in the Absolute Basis
When the DRU is first turned on, the values of X′ are set to a unit vector extending along the positive x axis (1,0,0), the value of Y′ is set to a unit vector along the positive y axis (0,1,0), and the value of Z′ is set to a unit vector along the positive z axis (0,0,1), and O is set to (0,0,0). Thus, the DRU Basis and the position of the DRU in the Absolute Basis are established.
The first process the DRU will go through is the initial observation of points. At least four points are required (p1-p4) to determine the DRU Basis and the position of the DRU in the Absolute Basis, although the DRU generally observes a minimum of between 10 and 20 points.
As p1-p4 are selected by the DRU, their positions in the Absolute Basis [p1(a1, b1, c1), p2(a2, b2, c2) p3(a3, b3, c3), p4(a4, b4, c4)] are set to the same value of their positions in the DRU Basis [p1(a′1, b′1, c′1), p2(a′2, b′2, c′2), p3(a′3, b′3, c′3), p4(a′4, b′4, c′4)] and stored in the computer.
Overview of Secondary Process: Establishing the Position of the DRU in the Absolute Basis Over Time
The DRU then goes through the process of tracking points, using the following calculations:
Starting with Equation 1 of Equation Set A, four (4) points (p1-p4) are selected to solve for position and orientation. The following equations result:
To solve this system of equations, the coefficients (a1-a4, a′1-a′4, b′1-b′4, c′1-c′4, and 1) are placed in a matrix, moving the first column to the end:
Matrix 1 (based on Equation 1 using (p1-p4))
When reduced by row operations to reduced row-echelon form, this solves for the following:
Result Matrix 1 (based on Equation 1 using p1-p4))
To solve for the rest of X′, Y′, Z′, and O, the same process is performed using equations (2) and (3), as follows:
Transformation of Matrix 2 into Result Matrix 2 (based on Equation 2 for (p1-p4))
Transformation of Matrix 3 into Result Matrix 3 (based on Equation 3 for (p1p4))
As these row operations are all identical, these matrices can be combined by adding addition rows, yielding the following:
Transformation of Matrix 4 into Result Matrix 4 (based on Equation 1-3 for (p1-p4))
Finally, the system is improved by replacing p4 with a point derived from a cross-product of vectors based on p1, p2, and p3. This eliminates the possibility of the points not sufficiently spanning the DRU Basis. By performing the same cross-product on both the (an, bn, cn) points, and the (a′n, b′n, c′n) points, a consistent (a4, b4, c4) and (a′4, b′4, c′4) set are derived to describe the same imaginary point.
When the DRU locates previously observed points, it enters the new observed and the stored absolute positions for each point ((a′n, b′n, c′n) and (an, bn, cn)) into Matrix 4, which will give Result Matrix 4 and the new X′, Y′, Z′, and O of the DRU.
With the position and orientation of the DRU point of reference known, all points can be given an updated absolute position (an, bn, cn) if necessary, using Equation Set A.
Overview of Tertiary Process: Locating New Points in the DRU Basis
As described in previous sections, as the DRU's field of view changes, it will observe new points pn for which the positions in the DRU Basis are (a′n, b′n, c′n). The system will then plug these new values for (a′n, bn, c′n) into Equation Set A to determine the new (an, bn, cn). The new absolute values will then be stored in the computer so the points can be used in subsequent iterations. In this way the system can track the movement of the DRU through the Absolute Basis.
FIG. 3 is a flowchart of the program steps comprising visual navigation.
Recapitulating, at the Step S1, the system starts upon turn-on and is cleared and initialized whereupon the program advances to S2 where new points are collected until the desired number of points (n) are obtained. As was described hereinabove, the images are obtained and converted into pixels which are stored.
The stored images are scanned to identify distinctive points.
At S3, if this is the first iteration, the program jumps to S4 to set the point absolute positions. Then, at S5, an attempt is made to locate all the old points in the same area or field of view they were last observed. All old points which cannot be relocated are deleted at S6 at which time the program returns to S2 to collect new points until the total number of points equals n. Since this is the second time through the routine, the program jumps from S3 (which sets a flag after the first time through is established), and jumps to S7 at which three (3) points which are most likely to be stationary are selected. A fourth point is created at S8 which is normal to the plane formed by the three (3) points selected at S7. These points are "plugged" into the matrices at S9. The calculated unit position and orientation is transferred to the virtual object generation module at S10 and, when a new unit position is determined at S11 the program returns to S5.
Dual Reality Definition
Dual reality is the visual merging of real three-dimensional space (Observed Reality) with Supplemental Reality. Computer generated graphics are superimposed on a live stereoscopic video image in such a manner that any and all movement of the DRU through Observed Reality is reflected simultaneously by its movement in Supplemental Reality, creating an illusion of a single merged reality. Objects in Supplemental Reality can either be stationary, appearing in correct perspective relative to the participant, or can be moved around the field of view by computer, or both.
FIG. 10 shows the DRU 24 in the starting position (OO). The DRU has selected three points (p1, p2, p3) and projects a Virtual Object on Vector O.
FIG. 11 shows the DRU 24 moved to its second position relative to the starting position 24′shown in FIG. 10. In this position the DRU has located points p3 and p4 and has further selected a new point (p2). The Virtual Object is projected along vectors VO and VO′ in the same position as is shown in FIG. 10.
FIG. 12 shows the DRU moved to a third position relative to the starting position of FIG. 10. At this position, it has located points p2, p3 and p4. The Virtual Object is projected along vector VO and VO′ into the same position as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11.
FIG. 13 shows the DRU in the same position 24″as in FIG. 12, but wherein the Virtual Object is projected along a new set of vectors (V1 and V1′).
The above effect is achieved through the use of a self-contained headset 24, worn by the participant, independent of any external equipment or navigational aids, and is accomplished solely by the analysis of the stereoscopic video feed received from the unit 24 (i.e. by visual navigation). As an example, if the computer were to generate a Supplemental Reality cube suspended in mid-air, each surface could have a different color, as a participant walked around the cube so that the participant would be able to observe the different color in each respective side while walking around the computer generated cube.
Environment Mapping
Definition of Environment Mapping
Environment Mapping is a system in which the module that generates the supplemental reality is provided with information concerning the positions and orientations of surfaces existing in Observed Reality. This results in the two (2) realities being able to interact.
Calculation of the Orientation and Location of Surfaces
Calculation of the orientation and location of surfaces is accomplished by obtaining points in the same manner as described under
Visual Navigation
When an area of the field of view yields a sufficient number of points to reasonably assume they belong to a flat surface in observed reality, unit 24 will create a virtual plane in a position and with an orientation, as is shown in FIGS. 14 and 15. The coordinates of the plane are stored in the computer and are not displayed to the participant.
Once the virtual planes have been created, the Supplemental Objects can interact with them (e.g., a computer-generated object can be produced to give the effect of "bouncing off" a series of virtual planes corresponding to actual objects and surfaces), to create the effect of bouncing off "real" walls and objects within a room. Note also FIG. 16.
The process is also used to identify real objects interacting with the computer-generated objects in a dynamic manner. Using points which are identified on the near surface of the real object, unit 24 derives a three-dimensional model of the object and creates a matching virtual object (again only in the computer memory and not shown in the visor) which then interacts with the computer-generated object (e.g., if a participant attempted to hit the computer-generated image of a ball with his hand), the unit identifies the points on the observer's hand and, based on the placement of the ball in Supplemental Reality, determines that the two (2) objects overlap and cause an appropriate reaction wherein the ball could move, disappear or remain in position and the participant's hand appears to go "through" the object.
The system described hereinabove may be used independently by individuals or may be integrated into a Dual Reality network enabling multiple participants to interact with the Dual Reality as well as with each other.
Recapitulating, the Dual Reality operating cycle, and making reference to FIG. 2, the 3D video input 30 which is shown in simplified block diagram form as consisting of the video cameras shown in FIG. 1, obtain the video inputs and provide a 3D video display at output 32 as well as providing information at 34 for collecting and recognizing points in the real image which is formed by way of the memory devices, storing image frames and scanning these frames with an X by Y grid to identify points. These points are provided for environmental mapping purposes at 36 and for calculating position and orientation at 38. The environmental mapping function 36, performed by the computer, is utilized for generating the virtual object by the virtual object generator 40 to obtain the proper position and orientation relative to the real image. The position and orientation data determined at 38 and the virtual object generated at 40 is presented to the virtual object display 42 for presenting a display to the 3D video output 32.
A latitude of modification, change and substitution is intended in the foregoing disclosure, and in some instances, some features of the invention will be employed without a corresponding use of other features. Accordingly, it is appropriate that the appended claims be construed broadly and in a manner consistent with the spirit and scope of the invention herein described.
Citas de patentes
Otras citas
Citada por
Eventos legales
Imagen original


text:
Last Updated: July 30, 2014 09:37am ET
Center 72% Filled Gets Low Cap Rate
GARDEN GROVE, CA�An Orange County-based private investor makes its first commercial-property venture by buying the 35,515-square-foot Garden Grove Festival Square here in this UPDATE to a previous story.
You can now be notified via email if this story is updated by clicking on the "Follow this Story" link. You must be a registered member to take advantage of this "members only" benefit.


text:
MMA News
Monday, 07/15/2013, 10:28 am
FREE FIGHT VIDEO | Rousey vs. Tate 1 Full Fight
This fight is not for the squeamish.
Both Ronda Rousey and Meisha Tate have a bit of history heading back to their days under the Strikeforce banner. If you missed their first fight than enjoy it above!


text:
Women's Opportunity Center
YWCA Spokane's Women's Opportunity Center is here to help women: Get the job. Keep the job. Build a career.
The center is designed to provide opportunities in four areas:
Educational opportunities and support for women are provided through classes and one-on-one advising in the Job Readiness Program and Our Sister's Closet--a free clothing boutique for women in need. A 12-station staffed computer lab is also available for participants.
Women's Opportunity Center Essentials
Information about Our Sister's Closet
Did you use our services and get a job? Click here to let us know!
Interested in helping the Women's Opportunity Center? Click here for the Women's Opportunity Center / Our Sister's Closet Wish List!
Learn how you can connect
In The News...
Learn About...
Take Action...
Support Us...


text:
Update: This recipe was posted long before I went low carb and gluten free. I have since posted a low carb and gluten free crab rangoon recipe. Enjoy!
Crab rangoons are one of my favorite guilty pleasures! On the rare occasions when we go to a Chinese buffet I do try to stick with the "healthier" available options like the made to order stir fry or the sushi. But the one thing I can't resist is a couple of crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside crab rangoons! Sadly, it's hard to find good ones anymore as they are sometimes too sweet or the wonton is too thick. Years ago my husband and I were doing an asian-themed party and I set out to make my own. It is ridiculously easy and you only need a few ingredients for this recipe. I've made them many times since as a finger food when we have friends over to watch a game or play cards. These go perfectly with a cold beer! This crab rangoon recipe makes about 50, which may sound like a lot but they go FAST! If you're making them for just a couple of people you can halve the recipe or these freeze really well (before cooking), and you can fry them to order whenever you have a hankering! :) Be aware, this will spoil you from takeout crab rangoons for the rest of your life! I mean it! You've been warned….
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 4 oz imitation crab meat
- 1 medium sized onion, chopped
- 50 wonton wrappers
- oil for frying
- Combine cream cheese, "crab" and onion in a food processor and pulse until combined. You want a bit of texture but not big chunks. Place the wonton wrappers on a flat surface 10 at a time and put about 1 teaspoon of filling on each. Don't overfill or they will ooze out during frying. Put some water in a cup and using your finger dip it in and then wet the edges of the wonton wrapper. Fold into a triangle and press the edges closed, try not to leave large air bubbles or they will expand and rupture during frying. Fry in about 2 inches of hot oil about 1 minute per side or until golden. Drain on paper towels and try to wait at least a few seconds before eating or you WILL burn your mouth on the filling. You can serve them with duck sauce or sweet chili sauce which my husband likes--I prefer them plain and straight out of the fryer!
As a side tip, if making these for a party (they go like hotcakes and are cheap to make so I highly recommend it!) then you can fry them lightly, drain and then place on a cookie sheet a couple hours before (don't refrigerate) and then blast in the oven for a couple of minutes when you're guests arrive and they will be crisp and perfect just in time to accompany pre dinner drinks!
Also, check out my new E-zine! I Breathe I'm Hungry's Summer Recipes 2013 – 25 Recipes that Celebrate Summer! Get your copy for only $5.00 and start enjoying these incredible low carb and gluten free recipes today! Click here for more information, recipe photos and layout!


text:
Why Book With Us
- No booking fees
- Flexible cancellation policies
- 24 hour customer service
- Like booking hotel direct
- Privacy
- Security
Email Offers
Sao Paulo Hotels > Emiliano > Overview
Emiliano is Brazils finest example of world class luxury hospitality. The hotel introduced a unique and exclusive luxury experience to Sao Paulo, the worlds 5th largest city, confirming its place as the artistic and cultural capital of South America. Emiliano is located in the charming Jardins neighborhood, on Brazils most fashionable shopping Street, Oscar Freire. Oscar Freire is surrounded by upscale boutiques, art galleries, fine restaurants, cafes and headquarters of major corporations. Emiliano has set the pace in redefining luxury accomm in Sao Paulo. Guests experience authentic and modern Brazilian sophistication thru our contemporary ambience, refined cuisine and singularly warm service. Detail orientation is what best defines Emiliano. From the clean lines and spaciousness of our award winning architecture to our finely selected amenities, everything has been carefully designed to maximize the comfort of our guests. The light toned, airy atmosphere of the lobby and common areas blend subtle decor with the resolute shapes of design objects and furniture like the chairs made from golden rope created by the well known Brazilian designers Fernando and Humberto Campana. A member of LHW, Emiliano has achieved the highest inspection score among all the 40 htls audited in South America in 2009 by Quality Assurance, a joint venture company of LHW that conducts audits for its members and other properties in the world. As a consequence of our consistent high quality svc we had the prestige of being recently featured on Wallpaper Mag Fab40, a list of 40 fabulous reasons to stay in Brazil, and Conde Nast Traveller 2010 Gold List.
Rua Oscar Freire 384 Jardins Cep 01426/001
Sao Paulo, 01426000 BR
Check In Time: 14:00:00
Check Out Time: 12:00:00
Hotel Amenities
- 24-hour front desk
- Wakeup service
- Whirlpool
- Multilingual staff
- Butler service
- Front desk
- Meal plan available
- Lounges/bars
- High speed internet access for laptop in public areas
- Wireless internet connection in public areas
- 24-hour room service
- Baggage hold
- Turndown service
- DVDs/videos - children
- Concierge desk
- Business center
- Business services
- Conference facilities
- Currency exchange
- Meeting rooms
- Elevators
- Laundry/Valet service
- Massage services
- Restaurant
- Room service
- Safe deposit box
- Sauna
- Shoe shine stand
- Spa
- Steam bath
- Valet parking
- Security
- Computer
- Internet access
- Modem jack
- Cellular phone rental
- Fax machine
Room Amenities
- Smoke detectors
- Speaker phone
- Stereo
- Telephone
- VCR movies
- VCR player
- Voice mail
- Wireless internet connection
- CD player
- Shower
- Two-line phone
- DVD player
- Cable television
- Air conditioning
- Color television
- Free newspaper
- Handicap room
- Premium movie channels
- Data port
- Desk
- Alarm clock
- Direct dial phone number
- Fire alarm with light
- AM/FM radio
- Internet access
- Minibar
- Non-smoking
- Phone in bathroom
- Remote control television
- Safe


text:
This is my main blog site. It contains all the different things I do..activism, cooking, paper crafting, travel, reviews, and more.
"Everyone" tells you to have one site/domain devoted to each different topic. I simply don't have the time to maintain that many different websites! Therefore, it is all here in one place.
I hope you enjoy all the different things I do, but understand that you may not. The navigation, therefore, is structured to allow you to focus on the areas that interest you!


text:
DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania has to sustain grassroots soccer development in order to qualify for the African Nations Cup and the World Cup.
Abedi Ayew 'Pele' the Ghanain soccer legend said this while inspecting FIFA-sponsored youth development projects.
Pele, the three-time African footballer of the year, said that Tanzanians should not be pessimistic that their team will never qualify for the AFCON and the world cup instead more effort is needed.
He appreciated the standard showed by the National under 17 soccer team program supervised by the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) saying that they are endowed with talent and could scale great heights if they worked hard.
Pele urged the youth national team players to work hard and qualify for the African Youth Championships due in Algeria next year.
"There are no shortcuts to success. Players with talent need to work hard so as to perform at the very top level. Without hard work, and commitment you cannot succeed," Pele said.
Setting an example he said that Ghana is a powerhouse because it started a fullproof youth programme and it took many years for the project to yield fruit.
"If Ghana can identify the talented players and maintain the crop for years why can't Tanzania?" he asked.
He said for the three days he was in the country, he saw a lot of gifted players who need appropriate training to turn the nation's fortune in football.
FIFA Development Director for the Southern African Countries, Mr. Ashford Mamelodi who was with Pele during the visit said that, stability in the TFF leadership and domestic soccer has been so far the biggest attraction to FIFA.
Mamelodi said that FIFA will keep financing development programs in Tanzania if the stability is maintained. The fourth phase of the FIFA Goal Project will involve the renovation of the Nyamagana Stadium in Mwanza.


text:
Calabar — Engr Mfon Essien, Managing Director, Cross River Basin Development Authority says it has rehabilitated 120 water schemes in the state and Akwa Ibom in 2012.
He stated that the newly constructed water schemes would not be vandalised because they do not require battery or diesel to operate and make water available in the benefiting 120 communities.
Essien said in 2012, the authority rehabilitated more than 120 water schemes and converted their operating systems to solar.
"We have also been able to inject new life into all our statutory irrigation projects by providing them with two additional tractors, fertilizers and agro-chemicals," he said, adding that the people of the benefitting communities had written to the authority to express their appreciation for the projects.
He said the water schemes were part of over 300 projects initiated by the CRBDA over the years which were vandalised and rendered nonfunctional.
He said that they working very hard because they have the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) on water and the national target before them.
Essien further said that apart from the rehabilitated water schemes, the basin also assists federal government establishments within the catchment states with their water requirements.
"For example, the Federal Government Girls' College, Calabar, where we installed a brand new borehole with solar, when they hosted 104 unity schools across the country.
"Also, the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) Calabar got a brand new borehole with solar and the Prison quarters in Calabar was also equipped with a brand new borehole with solar," he added.
He said members of the National Assembly from the two states gave generous support to the projects.
He noted that, out of the projected N5.1 billion proposed by the authority for the 2012 physical year, only N2.5 billion was released.
Essien said: "We cannot say exactly how much we spent on these water schemes but on the average, our budget this year has been funded 49.8 per cent and "in all, what we have been given this year is just about N2.5 billion instead of N5.1 billion for all our activities."


text:
|Towneplace Suites By Marriott Hobe Sound properties are provided below. Search for cheap and discount Towneplace Suites By Marriott hotel prices in Hobe Sound, FL for your business gathering or personal travels. We list the best Towneplace Suites By Marriott Hobe Sound hotels/properties so you can review the Hobe Sound Towneplace Suites By Marriott hotel list below to find the perfect place.
This website will also provide discounted Hobe Sound, FL venues that have similar star rating to Towneplace Suites By Marriott.
Next: Show All Available Comparable Hotels with Pricing >


text:
AN outfit similar to the Mombasa Republican Council has been registered in the US and UK and has been engaging in diplomatic initiatives to help the Coast.
The group has received US$25 million (Sh2.13 billion) in funding. The Star has confirmed that the group, Republic of Pwani, made up of Kenyans living abroad as members is registered and has branches in London, Geneva, New York, Brussels, Riyadh, Beijing, Moscow and Muscat.
The group is seeking recognition and endorsement of the international community to bolster their quest for secession. In email correspondence seen by The Star and in the group's website, the group had on December 17 last year, written to various embassies and consulates in a statement titled 'Republic of Pwani Referendum Process Diplomatic Initiative', in which they had attached a briefing on the process.
"Your diplomatic missions worldwide will be receiving a briefing as will your Ministry of Foreign Affairs through our missions in diverse countries," stated the email signed by 'Pwani representation, South and North Coast' but with no specific name.
The group seeks to have negotiating powers over investment agreements, concessions, entered by the Kenyan government, in regards to the Coast and also advice and report in human and labour rights and set standards for investments, among other roles.
One of their secession plans is to hold a referendum to authenticate the agenda, an idea that the MRC has been fronting as well.A five-judge ruling by the High Court sitting in Mombasa dismissed the call terming it as baseless.
More information about the group is found on the website www.republicofpwani.According to Muslim for Human Rights Organisation executive director Hussein Khalid, the document has been circulated to British, US, Hungarian, Danish, Canadian, Finish embassies among others.
MRC spokesman Rashid Mraja said the group is aware of the circulating document."We got that document. We have done our investigations and found out that it originated from our people outside Kenya. They are our people," said Mraja on the phone.
Khalid called on the government to act swiftly and address the issues raised by the MRC."There are issues really and these people are serious, they have started international mobilisation.
This is serious and the government should consider looking into the matter as it means it is now an international issue and no longer just an MRC one," said Khalid on the phone.


text:
Using GIS Orion, I am trying to create a scene in Bryce along the lines of GIS Orion DAZ 1 and 2. However when I export the GIS Orion figure out as an .obj file and import it into Bryce, I lose the transparency of the glass, which is crucial to the scene. I want to use Bryce to get better results with the landscapes.
Note in the Bryce scenes that there is transparency in the front and indicated by the light piercing the shadows. But otherwise it is opaque, creating darkness and making a view to the outside impossible. I added a light but this only proves that the glass is opaque.
How can I get this figure to export the material as transparent to Bryce? For that matter how can I get the materials to consistently export/import from Daz to Bryce? Sometimes it works beautifully and other times it is just the default gray.
FYI : I am on a Mac running 10.6.8, DAZ4 pro 18.104.22.168 and Bryce 7 Pro.


text:
Pro Elite Pure Whey Protein Sample
Points2Shop Forums » Free Stuff » Pro Elite Pure Whey Protein Sample
CA platinum
Half way there
Total posts: 677
Status: Offline
Total Earnings: $451.82
reply date: 2012-06-28 23:16:20
Pro Elite products help you to achieve the size, strength and performance goals you have always been looking for.
Pro Elite has developed the highest quality formulas engineered to aid modern day athletes and bodybuilders to achieve their fitness and physical ambitions. As a sports supplement organization they strongly believe in nutrition as a vital element when trying to achieve your nutritious and physical targets. They have researched and have now created very pleasurable, great tasting supplements of the highest quality using the latest technology only using the most superb ingredients ensuring quality control to guarantee results without the product being unreasonable in value.
Sign up for a free sample of Pro Elite Pure Whey Protein.
This offer is only valid for residents of:
United Kingdom
AU new
My first post
Total posts: 4
Status: Offline
Date of Birth: 1998-03-30
Total Earnings: $2.11
reply date: 2012-06-30 09:05:08
Great my doct
AU new
My first post
Total posts: 4
Status: Offline
Date of Birth: 1998-03-30
Total Earnings: $2.11
reply date: 2012-06-30 09:06:31
Sorry for the other reply my doctor said in need much more protein


text:
Spotlight Article:
Editorial: Water Conservation
Sometimes less water means more energy
Keep Reading
Do Savings Come Out in the Wash?
premium CONTENT
A Large-Scale Study of Residential Laundry Systems [continue reading]
Weather-Stripping Windows with V-Strip
free CONTENT
An in-depth window study on six homes compares the effectiveness of plastic vs. metal weatherstripping. [continue reading]
Airtightness Testing and the 2009 and 2012 IECC
premium CONTENT
Adopting better state energy codes is a significant achievement, but enforcing these codes at the local level will be the hard part. [continue reading]
Past, Present, Future: Directions in Single-Family Energy Auditing and Retrofits
premium CONTENT
Round-robin energy audits and a building science stakeholder survey help to inform technical and policy discussions for single-family homes. [continue reading]
Beyond Zero Energy in European Homes
premium CONTENT
Where is energy efficiency in buildings headed in Europe? Key trends in Germany, Europe's leading construction market, provide useful insight. [continue reading]
Basement Whodunit
premium CONTENT
Hello, Home Energy readers. You may remember my story from a previous issue ("Adventures in Radon and Moisture Mitigation," HE July/Aug '14, p. 20). I'm the architect-turned-academic who introduced deadly radon ... [continue reading]
Amy Beley
The Real Women of Home Performance
At the ACI National Conference this year, I was remiss that there was no official presence of Women in ...
Stacy Hunt
DOE's Building Science Education Efforts: A Request
In recent years, DOE has developed the DOE Guidelines for Building Science Education - a set of job-specific ...


text:
Super Hero Proving Grounds as a Business?
View Single Post
Anatomically Correct
Joined: Sep 2008
Location: Chicago-ish
Oddometer: 14,862
Krazy --
For a while, I did maintenance and simple mods out of my garage -- like with most new, small businesses, most of my early customers were acquaintances (my friends didn't need my services, being of a similar mindset).
Overall, it was a highly enjoyable experience, but there were a few customers that had very mercenary attitudes . . . "You changed the oil on my bike a month ago, and now the clutch cable is broken -- come pick up my bike or I'll make a report to the BBB." Often, our "friendship" was used as a crowbar in an attempt to get what they thought of as preferential treatment, and what I thought of as, well, unreasonable requests.
So long as there are those whose primary mission in life is ending every day feeling like they got over on SOMEone, these folks will be at your shop in some percentage . . . .
Like others, I wish you luck -- just be prepared to spend more time than you might expect in setting, and enforcing, expectations . . . . .
"Here is your country. Cherish these natural wonders, cherish the natural resources, cherish the history and romance as a sacred heritage, for your children and your children's children. Do not let selfish men or greedy interests skin your country of its beauty, its riches or its romance. T.R.
View Public Profile
Find More Posts by bomber60015


text:
A collection of news and information related to Apache Corporation published by this site and its partners.
Top Apache Corporation Articles see all
Displaying items 1-1
Oil pipelines? Sure! What could go wrong?Story | Jun 19, 2013Think Progress reports: A massive toxic waste spill from an oil and gas operation in northern Alberta is being called one of the largest recent environmental disasters in North America. First reported on June 1, the Texas-based Apache Corp. didn't...


text:
Beverly M. Kienzle
An introduction to Latin manuscripts and the historical and cultural context of their production and use. Taught in collaboration with William Stoneman, Librarian, Houghton Library. This course includes a practical initiation to Latin paleography, with visits to Houghton and opportunities to work with both actual manuscripts and facsimiles of famous manuscripts, practice in transcribing previously unedited texts, and discussion of problems in textual criticism. Student presentations on research projects. Prerequisite: completion of an intermediate Latin course or the equivalent. All classes will be held in Houghton Library.
Enrollment Limited: Limited to 12 students. Instructor's permission required.
Open to BTI Students: Yes
Jointly offered as Medieval Studies 202
0.50 credits
Fall 2013
Wed 1pm-4pm
HU Houghton Library
Relationship to Program Requirements
|Program Requirement
|Area / Category / Art / Designation
|MTS Area(s) of Focus
|MDiv Distribution Category/ies
|MDiv Art(s) of Ministry
|Language Course Designation(s)
|Content language course


text:
Annona muricata
Soursop, Guanabana, Mustaferi
PROPERTIES/ACTIONS: Analgesic, Antibacterial, Anticancerous, Antiparasitic, Antitumorous, Antispasmodic, Astringent, Cytotoxic, Diuretic Febrifuge, Glactagogue, Hypotensive, Insecticide, Lactagogue, Nervine, Pectoral, Sedative, Stomachic, Vasodilator, Vermifuge
TRADITIONAL USES: Analgesic, Antispasmodic, Asthma, Astringent, Childbirth, Chills, Fevers, Flu, Diuretic, Gall-Bladder Tea, Glactagogue, Hypertension, High Blood Pressure, Insomnia, Lactagogue, Nervousness, Neuralgia, Palpitation, Parasites, Rash, Rheumatism, Ringworm, Sedative, Scurvy, Skin Disease, Tranquilizer, Vermifuge
TRADITIONAL REMEDY: One cup leaf infusion 1-3 times daily
Graviola (Annona muricata) also called soursop or guanabana and in Uganda, mustaferi is a powerful tree that grows deep within the Amazon rain forest in South America and throughout the Caribbean and Africa. The plant has been used for centuries by medicine men in South America to treat a number of ailments, including hypertension, influenza, rashes, neuralgia, arthritis, rheumatism, high blood pressure, diarrhea, nausea, dyspepsia, ulcers, ringworm, scurvy, malaria, dysentery, palpitations, nervousness, insomnia, fever, boils and muscle spasms. According to recent research it also protects the immune system, boosts energy and may have strong anti-cancerous properties. Producers claim it is stronger at killing colon cancer cells than common chemotherapeutic drugs and that it hunts down and destroys prostate, lung, breast, colon, and pancreatic cancers, while leaving healthy cells alone.
All parts of the Graviola tree are used in natural medicine in the tropics including the bark, leaves, roots, fruit and fruit-seeds. Different properties and uses are attributed to the different parts of the tree. Generally the fruit and fruit juice is taken for worms and parasites, to cool fevers, to increase mother's milk after childbirth (lactagogue), and as an astringent for diarrhea and dysentery. The crushed seeds are used as a vermifuge and anthelmintic against internal and external parasites and worms. The bark, leaves and roots are considered sedative, antispasmodic, hypotensive and nervine and a tea is made for various disorders for those purposes.
As a traditional remedy, graviola can be used as a preventative herb, for maintenance or as a cure for many complaints. In the West Indies and Latin America, graviola leaves are used to make a common bush tea which is taken daily by both children and adults as a nerve tonic. The leaves are strewn around beds and pillowcases to bring on restful sleep. The crushed leaves are used instead of smelling salts to revive one from a fainting spell. In Jamaica, the leaves are also used for kidney and gall bladder problems and to eliminate inorganic calcium deposits in the joints. In the Bahamas a remedy for high blood pressure is made by adding 15 leaves to a pint of boiling water. One cupful is taken in the morning and another is taken at night. The crush leaves are used as a poultice for wounds and sores. A tea of the dried fruit is commonly used for dysentery and jaundice. In Trinidad, a tea of the leaves is taken for flu, insomnia and to relieve burning urine. In Costa Rica, the crushed leaves are rubbed on the legs to repel chiggers and other body parasites.
Graviola is considered an important ally in the combat of more than twelve types of cancer, like lung, breast, prostate, among others. In vitro studies, conducted in more than twenty laboratories, show that graviola can provide a ten thousand times better improvement than treatment with chemotherapy. Scientists are proving its real efficiency in combating cancer. In the majority of cases, natural plant treatments give our life-force the necessary vitality for recovery, and in addition improves the perspective life of the sick person. Using extracts of this powerful tree, a full and natural therapy can be possible without the severe side-effects from the chemotherapy, e.g., nausea and loss of hair.
Other promising and ongoing research at Purdue University recently found that leaves from the Graviola tree killed cancer cells "among six human-cell lines" and were especially effective against prostate and pancreatic cancer cells. In a separate study, Purdue researchers showed that extracts from the Graviola leaves are extremely effective in isolating and killing lung cancer cells. The most recent study, conducted at Catholic University of South Korea, revealed that two chemicals extracted from Graviola seeds showed "selective cytotoxicity comparable with Adriamycin" for breast and colon cancer cells. The chemicals targeted and killed malignant breast and colon cells in a test tube--comparable to the commonly used chemotherapy drug Adriamycin. Another study, published in the Journal of Natural Products, showed that Graviola is not only comparable to Adriamycin--but dramatically outperforms it in laboratory tests. Results showed that one chemical found in Graviola selectively killed colon cancer cells at "10,000 times the potency of Adriamycin." Perhaps the most significant result of the study cited above from the Catholic University of South Korea, and of each of the others we've found, is that Graviola was shown to selectively target the enemy and leaving all healthy, normal cells untouched. By comparison, chemotherapy indiscriminately seeks and destroys all actively reproducing cells--even normal hair and stomach cells. This is what causes such often-devastating side effects as hair loss and severe nausea. In this respect, Graviola looks to be a promising alternative or supplement to mainstream treatments.


text:
Results 196 to 200 of 379
August 19th, 2013 12:15 AM #196Senior Member
- Join Date
- Jul 2012
- Posts
- 941
Gideon Donald Greengrass - curly slate-brown hair, pale grey eyes, Muggle-born, Slytherin. Owns Greengrass Gumshoes, a mystery-solving enterprise, in Diagon Alley. 10" elm wand with threstral tail hair core. Patronus is a centaur.
Lavender Jemima Greengrass - chestnut brown hair, golden brown eyes, Muggle-born, Hufflepuff. Works at St. Mungo's Hospital for Magical Maladies and Injuries as Head Nurse. 11" holly wand with unicorn tail hair core. Patronus is a Siamese Cat.
August 23rd, 2013 04:16 PM #198
-- Parents --
This family is located in Wales and has the surname of Cauldwell.
DH: His name is Samson Auster Cauldwell. He has deep auburn hair and light brown, almost glassy eyes. He was muggle-born and was sorted into Gryffindor at Hogworts. He works at St. Mungo's Hospital for Magical Maladies and Injuries as a healer. His wand is nine and a half inches, made of Walnut, with a core of Veela hair. His patronus is a cardinal.
DW: Her name is Luella Venus Cauldwell. She has shiny black hair and emerald green eyes. She is pure-blood and was sorted into Ravenclaw at Hogwarts. She is editor of The Daily Prophet. Her wand is nine and a half inches, made of Cherry, with a core of Threstral tail hair. Her patronus is a snow leopard.
August 26th, 2013 12:31 PM #200
Location: Scotland
Surname: Sinclair
DH: Felix Apollo Sinclair
Hair: shaggy, wavy blond
Eyes: big and brown with long eyelashes
Blood: Pure-blood
House: Hufflepuff
Occupation: works at St. Mungo's as a healer
Wand: Walnut with unicorn tail hair, 9 1/2 in.
Patronus: Bengal tiger
DW: Elsa Celeste Sinclair
Hair: waist-length, straight, dirty blond
Eyes: big and blue with dark lashes
Blood: muggle-born
House: Gryffindor
Occupation: Department of Magical Accidents and Catastrophes in the Muggle Liaison Office
Wand: Rosewood with Veela hair, 9 1/2 in.
Patronus: hummingbirdFavorite Names
Rosemarie Violet ♀ Alyxandrea Onyx ♀
Lilyanna Scarlett ♀ Cassia Primrose ♀
Aristanae ♀ Nastasya ♀ Vasilisa ♀
Jasper Felix ♂ Adrian Caspar ♂
Mason Ryder ♂ Sebastian Archer ♂
Asher ♂ Reyn ♂
September 11th, 2013 11:42 PM #202
Me: Magenta Lily Langston.
Husband: Hunter Poseidon Langston.
Nationality: Scottish.
Parentage: Pure-Bloods.
House: Gryffindor.
My Occupation: Photographer for The Daily Prophet.
Hunter's Occupation: Potions Master at Hogwarts.
My Wand: 11 in. Oak with Phoenix Feather.
Patronus: Lion.
September 13th, 2013 11:23 AM #204Member
- Join Date
- Sep 2013
- Posts
- 56
Location: England
LN: Knightley
DH: Magnus Gideon
He has short and straight blonde hair. His eyes are green. He is pure-blood. He was in Slytherin. He is Hogwarts Professor of Defence Against the Dark Arts. His wand is nine and a half inches long. It is made from maple and has a Veela hair in its core. His patronus is a black panther.
DW: Elsa Jemima
She has long and straight brown hair. Her eyes are blue. She is muggle-born. She was in Ravenclaw. She is an editor at The Daily Prophet. Her wand is twelve inches long and made from elm. Its core is from a Veela hair. Her patronus is a cat.


text:
Info Photos Reviews 26 News Forum
Any serious problems....
I am seriously getting ready to own this phone, but before I do, I need to know if anyone has had any serious problems with the phone that would deter me from purchasing this phone. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
- Re: Any serious problems.... by theGrue


text:
The Voice
Behind-the-Scenes on The Voice Season 3: Blake Shelton Gropes Adam Levine's Leg, and Christina Aguilera Calls Adam a "Tender Lover" (VIDEO)
Apparently The Voice's four celebrity coaches aren't just joksters on stage. Adam Levine, Blake Shelton, Cee Lo Green, and Christina Aguilera were filled with clever quips and jabs backstage with social media correspondent Christina Milian.
Adam got some special attention when Christina called him "a tender lover" and Blake began rubbing his leg. Watch the video to see what happened!


text:
Developed by Subcommittee: D02.L0.05 | Committee D02 | Contact Staff Manager
1. Scope
1.1 This test method covers a procedure for determining the coefficient of friction of dry solid film lubricants and other coatings that may exhibit improved frictional characteristics using the Ball on Three Disk Test Stand. 1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. 1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
The title and scope are in draft form and are under development within this ASTM Committee.Back to Top
Date Initiated:
Technical Contact:
Michael Anderson
Draft Under Development


text:
This tomato coulis is brimming with exotic flavors! It's a marvelous variant of this classic tomato coulis. Serve it as a condiment for grilled vegetables, fish and meats, or as a dipping sauce for grilled cheese sandwiches and fritters.
Recipe: Beer-battered zucchini flower fritters with curried tomato coulis
Curried tomato coulis
makes 1 1/2 cups
active time: 30 min (20 min if using canned tomatoes)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 large shallots – skinned, quartered and thinly sliced (3/4 cup)
- 2 large garlic cloves – skinned and finely chopped
- 1 1/2 teaspoons finely grated fresh ginger (use a microplane grater)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Madras curry powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne
- 1 1/2 lbs (680 g) very ripe plum or beefsteak tomatoes – peeled, seeded (seeds strained and juices reserved) and puréed with the reserved juices in a food processor or 1 – 15 oz (425 g) can whole, peeled plum tomatoes plus 2 tablespoons spring water – puréed in a food processor
- 1 fresh bay leaf
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- Heat a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan to medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and shallots and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until softened. Add the garlic, ginger, curry, turmeric, coriander, cumin and cayenne. Stir well and continue to sauté for 1 minute until the spices are fragrant. Add the tomatoes (or the puréed canned tomatoes) and bay leaf and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium/medium-low and slow-simmer for 20 to 25 minutes until the sauce has thickened, but is not dry. Add the salt, stir well and transfer to a bowl to cool slightly. Once cooled, remove the bay leaf and place the sauce in the bowl of a food processor and process until very smooth. Transfer to a container. Use the sauce right away, refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
- Cook's note: If making a double batch of the recipe, use only 3 tablespoons of olive oil. All other ingredients can be exactly doubled. Your cooking time might double too, but this will depend on how fast you're simmering the sauce.


text:
Main Site - :: Why Won't God Heal Amputees? ::
0 Members and 1 Guest are viewing this topic.
George W. Bush to Raise Money for Group That Converts Jews to Bring About Second Coming of Christformer President George W. Bush is scheduled to keynote a fundraiser in Irving, Texas, for the Messianic Jewish Bible Institute, a group that trains people in the United States, Israel, and around the world to convince Jews to accept Jesus as the Messiah. The organization's goal: to "restore" Israel and the Jews and bring about about the second coming of Christ.
I only have a filter for people who do not consistently beg to be belittled, ridiculed, insulted, and demeaned.
I may believe people, as a whole, should be treated fairly but I also believe those same people are idiots.


text:
Best of Botswana - Okavango, Chobe & Vic Falls
Botswana & South Africa & Zimbabwe, Wildlife & Safari, 15 days - from £1,995 (land only) - from €2,445 (land only) - from $3,320 (land only)
Visa Information
Okavango, Chobe & Vic Falls Best of Botswana.
This trip visits South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe
South Africa
A passport (with at least 6 months remaining validity), is required. British, American, Canadian and most European and Commonwealth passport holders are issued with visas on arrival at no charge.
Please note that all visitors to South Africa are required to have a minimum of 2 blank consecutive pages in their passport i.e. a left hand page and a right hand page to enable an entry visa to be issued.
A passport (with at least 12 months remaining validity), is required. British, American, Canadian, and most European and Commonwealth passport holders do not require a visa for entry into Botswana.
Most nationalities, including British, USA and Canadian passport holders, require a visa for Zimbabwe.
*Important Note: During the visit to Victoria Falls our accommodation is normally on the Zimbabwe side of the Falls. You will need a visa to visit Zimbabwe. Visas for Zimbabwe can be issued at the border crossing from Botswana. The cost of these visas are approximately £40 for (please note these fees are subject to frequent change). A passport with at least 6 months remaining validity and several blank pages is required.
We do keep our information up to date but be advised visa requirements are subject to change. It is recommended that you contact the relevant commission in case of recent alterations.
Print Page


text:
Forgot your login or password?
Online Banking User Information
January 30, 2006 - Shepherdstown, West Virginia – Jefferson Security Bank (OTCBB: JFWV) President and Chief Executive Officer, K. Stephen Morris, announces the results for the year 2005.
For the six months ended December 31, 2005, the bank had record earnings of $1,274,389 ($4.25 per share), which is a 33.1% increase over the comparable six-month period in 2004. For calendar year 2005, the bank had record earnings of $2,406,245 ($8.02 per share), which is a 32.5% increase over the $1,816,356 ($6.05 per share) earned in calendar year 2004.
Mr. Morris stated, "As I discussed at the Annual Meeting in April, 2005, we had budgeted net income of $2,100,000 ($7.00 per share) for calendar year 2005. The bank's actual results exceeded the budget by 14.2%. All of my colleagues and I are proud of the results that we have attained for the shareholders and we are focused on continuing to deliver superior results."
Jefferson Security Bank is a community bank, headquartered in Shepherdstown, West Virginia, that engages in general banking business through four offices in Jefferson County and Berkeley County, West Virginia. We currently expect to open the new Barron office in Shepherdstown and a new office in Sharpsburg, Maryland early in 2006.
Return to News & Events Archive index.
Click here to view the Current News & Events Index
Sign Up for
Electronic Banking
and enroll for paperless
Eco-statements »


text:
CLU Notebook: Recruiting now allowed through social networks
Cal Lutheran coaches should soon have a lot more friends.
Division III members passed legislation at the NCAA convention last Saturday allowing private communication with recruits through social networking sites like Facebook.
Coaches have been limited to phone calls, text messages, faxes and emails.
"There is not a lot of phone conversations that go on anymore and I don't think some kids even know what a fax is," CLU athletic director Dan Kuntz said. "Students are living and communicating in social media and I think the schools and coaches realize that. The one concern was privacy and not being intruded upon, but students are pretty savvy. When they don't want to be contacted, they know how to say not now."
Kuntz and James McHugh, the special assistant to the president for athletic affairs at CLU, represented the university at the convention in Grapevine, Texas.
Division III members considered 13 legislative proposals during the convention business session.
Along with the social media proposal, another proposal adopted was requiring confirmation of sickle cell trait status for all student-athletes no later than the 2014-15 academic year, including mandatory confirmation of status for all incoming student-athletes in 2013-14.
People with sickle cell trait have been shown to be more vulnerable than those without the trait to heat stroke and muscle breakdown when subjected to strenuous exercise under unfavorable environmental conditions.
Athletes can opt out of having the test, but will have to receive education regarding sickle cell trait status.
Given the concerns about costs, logistics and how the proposal related to other medical issues, the vote was close (254-200-15).
Not much will change at CLU as the university already required athletes to have the sickle cell trait test.
"There was a lot of conversations around this issue, but in the end it's really about the well-being of the student," Kuntz said. "If there is something we can do to help the well being of the student, our mindset at CLU is to always do it. Our first priority is always to take better care of our students."
Kuntz said a topic he expects to be discussed in the future is establishing boundaries at the Division III level, where there are no athletic scholarships.
"Being less intrusive on students and offering a better work-life balance for the staff is huge," Kuntz said. "Division III is intended to have more restrictions because the emphasis is to allow student-athletes to be students. They need opportunities to study abroad and not have coaches on them year-round. We need to allow them to have a well-rounded experience."
Kuntz was attending the NCAA convention for the eighth time and can't wait to go back next year when it comes to San Diego.
"I think it's all fascinating because I can learn so much," Kuntz said. "There are so many good things and different ways to think about things and talk about these social issues that are in sports."
News and notes
CLU senior guard/forward Starla Wright was named the Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Athlete of the Week for the second time in three weeks. Wright averaged 30 points, shooting 82.1 percent from the field and grabbed 18 rebounds in victories over Whittier and La Verne. … Three teams entered the week with one loss in the SCIAC women's basketball standings — CLU (15-2, 8-1), La Verne (10-6, 7-1) and Occidental (11-5, 6-1). … Two of the top three scorers on the CLU men's basketball team are local freshman. Oxnard High graduate Dan Wade is averaging 9.0 points and Ventura High graduate Corey Quintana is averaging 8.2. ... Mimi Harbach won three races in a SCIAC meet against Whittier. Harbach won the 200 free (1 minute, 59.21 seconds), the 500 free (5:19.64) and the 200 individual medley (2:15.63).
Subscribe to the Ventura County Star
Need Help? Call us at 1-877-710-6182.
Monday-Friday: 6am-3pm / Saturday: 6:30am-10:30am / Sunday: 7am-11am


text:
|Amount Per Serving
|% Daily Value
|Proprietary Blend
Garcinia cambogia fruit extract
Brown seaweed from Undaria pinnatifida (1% fucoxanthin)
Green Tea extract (Camellia sinensis) (leaf extract)
Caralluma fimbriata (leaf extract)
|832 mg
Added to My List as a guest*.
*Your guest list will be temporarily saved until you end this browser session.
Natural Care Slim Care® with Fucoxanthin Caralluma -- 90 Capsules
Oops! Something went wrong and we were unable to process your request. Please try again.
|Amount Per Serving
|% Daily Value
|Proprietary Blend
Garcinia cambogia fruit extract
Brown seaweed from Undaria pinnatifida (1% fucoxanthin)
Green Tea extract (Camellia sinensis) (leaf extract)
Caralluma fimbriata (leaf extract)
|832 mg
Dietary Supplement and Plan
With Fucoxanthin and Caralluma
Natural Weight Management Formula and Diet Plan
About SlimCare®
NaturalCare® SlimCare® Dietary Supplement and Diet Plan are designed to help provide nutritive support for the healthy metabolism of carbohydrates and sugars. Managing portion sizes and diet are easier when following a diet plan.
The botanicals in SlimCare® include caralluma, green tea extract, garcinia extract, and fucoxanthin from brown seaweed. Let SlimCare® dietary supplement and diet plan be a part of an effective weight management program that lets you take control of your eating habits, and your health. Step off the roller coaster of fad diets, cleanses, and instant weight loss programs, and get into healthy, sensible weight management for overall optimal good health.
Please refer to the weight management (diet) guidelines listed on the enclosed consumer guide.
Weight Management
According to the Trust for America's Health report, the obesity rate in the U.S. has increased in 31 states, and has remained the same in the remaining 19. This ominous statistic indicates an epidemic of obesity and points to the need for effective weight management as opposed to "quick fix" weight loss.
Weight management includes:
Because it rakes years to add pounds, weight management also requires patience. Hoping for immediate significant weight loss is un-realistic. Healthy weight loss is best achieved through lifestyle changes over a reasonable period of time, which is what weight management achieves.
SlimCare® Dietary Supplement and Diet Plan are designed to be and important part of a weight management program. The natural ingredients in the supplement and meal suggestions recommended in the diet plan help reduce feelings of hunger and support healthy metabolism in the body.
Vitacost price: $22.99
35% off
Retail price: $25.89
Vitacost price: $16.69
42% off
Retail price: $19.95
Vitacost price: $11.39
30% off
Retail price: $15.99
Vitacost price: $11.19
48% off
Retail price: $32.49
Vitacost price: $19.49
Sale price: $16.57
56% off
Retail price: $25.99
Vitacost price: $11.19